Difference between revisions of "Chapter 5"
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+ | =Chapter 5= | ||
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+ | In the morning the party are woken up by the temple bells ringing in harmony, four mighty bronze tongued beasts atop each tower ringing in the new day! The chimes can probably be heard for miles across the steppes. Your rooms are still dark, the drapes drawn but the call of morning has gone out! A new day has begun! | ||
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+ | Raziel startles awake as the bells ring out. He looks around the darkened room for a moment before groaning and slipping out of the bed. His still tired and achy body moving a bit slowly. Dressing then he tosses back the drapes and looks out of the room before glancing over to the bed and noting, "time to get up." | ||
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+ | Vazkor stirs a bit as the bells starting ringing... A whole less startled by them than Raziel at that, perhaps due to being a city boy and having grown up with the sound of church bells and the like. He just raises his head off the pillow, and squints at the Aegyl as the throws open the drapes, before grunting and pushing himself out of bed... Moving a bit slow as well as he goes for his clothes and gear as they sit draped across a nearby chair. Having already dug out all his ruined stuff the night before, including those melted swords rolled up in his old rain poncho, "So what's the plan today?" He asks, rumbly. | ||
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+ | "The plan is ..." Raziel pauses then walks over to start going through his things to pull out the coin that his people entrusted him with. "We will request an audience with one of the scholar priests familiar with pre-folly artifacts.. well further back than pre-folly. And we'll see what information we can find off of him." The man looks over then, "if we can figure out where this coin originated from then we have a starting point for Aries' journey." | ||
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+ | Vazkor hmms some, listening to Raziel's plan as he slides on his trousers, shoves on his boots, and straps on his leather tunic, followed by his swordless sword belt. He nods then, giving a brief, tired smile as he gathers back his hair to put it in a ponytail and get it out of the way, "Alright... Well, get dressed, and I'll follow your lead... Though if you don't mind, I'd also like to find someone that can maybe get me a weapon of somekind." | ||
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+ | Once they are dressed and emerge from their chambers they are greeted by a young acolyte in white robes. She bows to you both, "Good morning to you both visitors, would you care to break your fast with us in the refectory? I am Aliandra, your guide whilst you stay with us here at the Temple." | ||
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+ | Raziel nods to Vazkor before murmuring, "I hope you will be able to find something." He emerges from the room then, having already dressed, and pauses as the greeting is given. The man bows in responce before he straightens back up again once again. "I thank you for your time and consideration then. I think we would.. and after if one of the priest scholars has time for me I've something that I'm hoping to find some answers out about." | ||
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+ | Vazkor greets the acolyte with a bow in return, responding to her, "Good morning, miss... And I could certainly use some breakfast." He smiles, before glancing at Raziel as he makes his request, nodding some and then adding, "And while of less importance, I wonder, would you have some sort of blacksmith or master at arms within your Temple grounds? I'm afraid I need to replace some... Things that got damaged in our unfortunate run-in with a Mesmerize herd." | ||
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+ | Aliandra nods her head and motions for you to follow her, "Of course good Master" she addresses Raziel, "Which subjects did you wish to enquire within? I can take you to visit the scholars you wish to see." She then nods to Raziel, "I can direct you to the Captain Smith's Office if you wish after breakfast whilst I escort Master Raziel here to the scholars?" | ||
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+ | Raziel follows the woman down the hall and he holds up the disc so she can see it, "ancient artifacts.. And.. or someone that might know history regarding the Zodiac. I know.. actually that will be enough." He catches himself from going into a full explaination and pulls the coin back against his chest again while they're led to the refectory. | ||
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+ | Vazkor hmms some and nods, "Thank you, that sounds fine." He glances at Raziel then, "Do you want me to go with you first, dear? I just need to get myself a new sword before we go, but that should be a bit yet, yes?" | ||
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+ | SHe regards the coin with mild interest, "Brother Ferdinand will be able to help I am sure, he is our most learned astronomer." She nods to Vazkor and shows you both into the refectory, "Please be seated, enjoy breakfast, I shall be outside. When you are ready I'll have someone show you to the armoury Master Vazkor and take Master Raziel to the Astronomy Tower." | ||
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+ | Raziel inclines his head and murmurs his thanks before stepping into the room. The meal is taken in silence, but what they are given is utterly demolished by the mage who's surprisingly hungry this day. Once finished the man nods to Vazkor and then rises and leaves the room to meet up with their guide again. "Thank you for waiting." | ||
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+ | Vazkor equally devours his food! Though with probably slightly more finesse and manners. He even is polite enough to hide his burp behind his hand as he pushes his empty playe away, and then gets up to follow after Raziel, "Well, I'll see you in a few hours, hm? I hope you'll learn something useful, dear." | ||
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+ | Aliandra bows to VAzkor and hands him over to another acolyte, this quiet man leads him out into the main courtyard of the temple and across it toward a gate leading into yet another interior courtyard. This one has workshops around the outer edge, kilns, paper makers, binders, forge.... He is taken up to a large wooden door, inside is an office and behind it is a very, very large Rhino morph. He nods to Vazkor gently "Morning, what brings you here traveller?" Aliandra meanwhile takes Raziel through a set of doos and down the long path through the central tanscript of the library. "We need to go up the south west tower, Brother Ferdinand lives and works up there if anyone can tell you what that coin is, it is him." | ||
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+ | Raziel lifts a hand as Vazkor is led off and then lowers his eyes for a moment. There's a faint shift of his shoulders before the unwinged aegyl turns to follow after Aliandra. He looks around quite a bit as he's led through the building, though a brow lifts in responce to her explaination and he nods in responce. "The higher he is hopefully the less the lights of the city will interfere with the study of the skies perhaps? It's quite understandable." | ||
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+ | Vazkor gives Raziel a wave and a smile, before being led away. The man looks around the workshop area with a curious gaze as he's led through it, before stepping through the large door and facing the big Rhino within... He offers the beastkin a smile however, seemingly not intimidated by his size, and simply approaches him as he unslings his wrapped up swords from his back, "Hello, my good man... I wonder if you could help me." He sets the package on the counter, and unwraps it, revealing the two rather melted swords... Though which to an expert eye will still show to have once been something quite special, with an ornate craftmanship that is likely Burmecian in origin, "... I'm afraid I had a run in with some Mesmerize outside your walls... This is the result. So you can see I'm in the business for something to serve as a temporary replacement." | ||
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+ | Aliandra smiles at Raziel, "Indeed but this is not a city, it is a just the Temple Library" the large room they are moving throgh is all marble and oak, with tall pillars and what look to be endless stacks of bookcases going off in all directions! It takes five minutes to traverse the main trancept and enter the winding staircase that climbs toward the astronomy tower which is actually ABOVE the belfry all the way up the top! The door is quite sturdy and the floor of the room beyond is stone and the room is curved metal, a dome of some strange substance Raziel will never have seen before. There are about four large telescpes, smaller ones set up at windows arond the room and work benches and tables and charts nd graphs... "Brother Ferdinand? Brother Ferdinand we have a guest?" She calls out and looks around with a frown. "Oh dear I wonder were he has gotten to...." | ||
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+ | The rhino nods as Vazkor talks and then frowns at the swords "I see... you did have a run in, what did they do, hit you with lightning?" He touches one of the mangled blades, "I am Smith Captain Marco, this is quite the mangled set." he runs his fingers along the metal. "I can sell you a sword but nothing Burmecian craft I am afraid... as for these.... well. I can give you some names for smiths who might be able to help?" | ||
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+ | Raziel continues to look around as they wander though. The library a great interest to him, though he can think of others who would be drooly puddles of want if they were ever allowed in here. Namely Ainsley. The mage doesn't let himself fall behind though as they ascend up into the tower and upon their entry he slows to look around. The telescopes, great and small, each drawing his curiousity as does the strange substance making up the walls of the room. He too looks around then and then considers before tilting his head to the lady, "is it possible that he's still abed? His study is the type that would keep him up late after all." | ||
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+ | Vazkor frowns a bit at his swords as he sees their state again... And quickly wraps them back up as he nods, giving the Rhino a quick smile, "Any names like that would be most welcome, sir... As for what I need, I can do without the Burmecian part for the moment, of course. I trust you have perfectly servicable blades yourself... A Cutlass, perhaps? Or a saber? Maybe even a simple longsword. Something suited to my style." | ||
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+ | Something hits Raziel atop his head, "I am not abed you young whipper snapper!" An elder kangaroo rat-kin walks around in front of the aegyl and frowns at him, leaning on his cane. His fur completly white, "Why are you disturbing me hmm? What does a wingless Aegly want with me?" he prods the man in the stomach, "I am busy mapping the Marcona Cluster and you come wake me up!" He gives Aliandra a glower and she blushes and bows, "He requested information on the Zodiac learned master, please try and help him." She then smiles at Raziel and steps to the side, "I will wait for you outside." | ||
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+ | Marco stands up and nods, beckoning Vazkor to follow him, he opens a door behind his desk and leads Vazkor into a room of swords, he looks around and taps his chin. The room... is just nothing but swords, at the far end is an arch leading into a room of pole arms. There are barrels around the edge of the room filled with swords and above each barrel, hanging on display is the sword type in the barrel. He gestures, "Take your pick Master Vazkor, I will have to charge you for it I am afraid. Now as for smiths who can help you, probably Za'Tana of Salkiawood, Harna Gantha of Giruvegan or Yalita Morabina from Baguba Port." | ||
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+ | Raziel decides not to mention that the astronomer just disproved his first statement. Though not abed, still asleep. The man straightens a little bit, not at the cane poking but at being called out so easily for what he is. "How did you.. no nevermind." He shakes his head briefly before nodding to Aliandra and then looking back at Brother Ferdinand. "I'm sorry for interrupting your.. studies, sir.. but the wings are what I've come about. I'm attempting to get them back. My time with my people has led me to believe that this coin holds the key.. and it's leading me somewhere. I had hoped that such a... learned scholar as yourself could assist me." As he speaks he keeps his tone quiet and mild, merely occasionally halting to look for the right word before continuing on. Once the request is put out there he holds out the Stellazio coin for the astronomer to see. | ||
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+ | Vazkor arches his brow a bit as he's led into the sword room... And he lets his eyes go over all of them, slowly turning in place as he does, starting to grin a bit. He faces the Rhino again then after a moment, nodding at him firmly, "Quite a collection you have here, good sir. And money won't be an issue. May I?" And with that, he starts wandering past everything on offer... Occassionally picking out a sword that catches his interest, and setting its blade across his hand to figure out it's point of balance... Most he puts back again, but it doesn't take long for him to pick out two swords that seem to agree with him. One a Cutlass like which he always seemed to prefer... The other a Katana. Carrying both back to the Rhino, he grins again, shrugging some at his choice as he holds up the latter, "An indulgence, I'm afraid... It has been quite a while since I saw one of these. They always struck a chord." | ||
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+ | Brother Ferdinand drops his cane and stares at the coin in shock, "Tha... That's the Aries! Whwere... hjow.....what..." he sits down with a thump and stares at the coin. "My boy that's /the/ Aries, as in the actual honest for goodness, swear it on Andromeda's name Aries Coin? The starting point! The fist link in the Stelazzio chain, let me see, let me see." he takes the coin and polishes his glasses ad pulls them on to stare at it in awe, hands trembling. | ||
+ | Marco laughs and slaps Vazkor on the arm, "No worries boy, the cutlas is one hundred twenty, the Katana... well that is three thousand, those things are not easy to come by these days, very few of the masters still make them." He grins "But I am always happy to sell however, we are the repository of all knowledge, that includes knowing how to make things, not just books." | ||
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+ | Raziel's brows come together and then he sighs and nods. "It is.. it's the treasure of my people, given for me to follow the chain in search of Virgo." He lets the coin go before withdrawing his hands slowly. "I will have to return it to my people.. but.. if you'll help me.." He looks lost in thought for a moment before snapping his eyes up quickly, "I'll want for you to make a rubbing of it to keep that within the library at least. I cannot give it up, but it's knowledge I can share." | ||
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+ | Vazkor grins some even as he reels a bit from the slap on his arm, "Well, you're very well stocked, good sir. If distance was not an issue, I'd have to put thought into letting you supply my fencing school, hm?" Taking a moment to study the Katane's blade again then, he nods a bit, "Three thousand... A fair enough price for something as well crafted." Setting both blades on the counter then, he starts to unsling his pack to get to some of the money stored there, commenting in the meantime, "And thank you for the names, also... I should be heading to the port city soon, and I'll be sure to seek out this Yalita Morabina." | ||
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+ | Brother Ferdinand shakes his head "No.. no I cannot take a rubbing, it would be sacriligious, so... yes yes ther starting point is what you want yes?" he hunts through his papers and scrolls and pulls something out. "Here we go..." he points "Here see, to the west of Baguba Port, about five days time, that it is said where the starting point is. If you have the Aries in that place when the stars are out then it will show you the path and distance to Virgo!" his hands tremble "Oh how I wish I could go with you..." he stares at the coin, stroking it and sighsm "I cannot take a rubbing but I can write down what it says, do you mind?" He moves to his desk, setting the coin down and pilling out pen and ink. | ||
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+ | Marco takes payment and chuckles "Well I hope she can help you, Morabina is a bit of an insane one I should warn you, but all Moogle's are. But she makes very good work and she is known for being able to restore things to their original condition. If she cannot help you then I am sure she can suggest other names." He smiles, "Now then you will be wanting the sai for that Katana, let me just get you one." | ||
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+ | Raziel considers before nodding a little in responce. Not regretting making the offer despite him saying it's sacreligious. The man listens closely and lifts a hand to rub over his chin before he murmurs, "it seems vague. 'Have Aries in that place'.. But I will trust you and pray that I do not make a misstep." His brow lifts then before the mage motions, "by all means. In this place knowledge is meant to be shared and you have illuminated me as I had hoped." | ||
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+ | Vazkor slings his pack back across his shoulder after he finished paying, having it be considerably lighter now, and retrieves his wrapped up, ruined swords as well before he waits for Marco to get the Sai for his brand new Katana, chuckling lightly as he does, "It seems alot of times, such genius comes with insanity... I do not mind, if it means having good work done." Once he gets everything he needs from Marco, he starts attaching his new blades to his belt... Actually doing it the proper way with the Katana at that, as if already familiar with such. Raising a hand then, he remarks, "Thank you for your help, I'm much obliged. There will be plenty of dangers ahead of me that require good swordwork." And with that, after one final greeting, he steps back out, hoping to find an Acolyte that can bring him to Raziel. | ||
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+ | A voice calls out from above, "Oh yes, very illuminating, most fascinating Brother" there is a rustle of wings and looking up Raziel gets chance to see the intruder. An aegyl woman, dressed completly in black, her hair tied back and hidden beneath a hood. Despite the shadows under her cowl the Aegyl gets a good look at her face, good enough that he'd recognize her if he saw her again, but she is not anyone he recognizes. "The raven thanks you both for giving me such fascinating information." She then hurls something at Brother Ferdinand.... something. Raziel leaps and manages to catch it, only to have it explode, smoke flooding his lungs. There are several more paf, paf, pafs and the brother can be heard coughing. The room fills with smoke, there is a sudden downdraft... the flap of wings, a creak of wood and then more wing beats as the smoke flows through ther room! | ||
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+ | "The Raven, what a horrible.." Just as he's about to insult her choice of 'fancy' names he spots the projectile and he interposes himself while catching it. As it explodes the man fals back towards the kangaroo rat and then starts trying to cover his mouth while at the same time choking out, "Protect the coin.." In fact he doesn't launch off a fireball, which would be his usual action, but instead turns to try and grab get his hand on 'Aries', to make sure that it doesn't get stolen in the confusion. The artifact and man with the knowledge his priorities.. and in that order. | ||
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+ | "Brother.. brother...." coughing.... Aliandra has rushed in only to be driven back out of the room by the smoke coughing loudly. Brother Ferdinand can be heard to land on the floor with a thump..... the smoke is thick, cloying but it is already starting to fade. It doesn't help that the sheer amount of it drives Raziel to his knees, still awake, just but weak now... as the smoke clears....... | ||
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+ | Marco sees Vazkor outside, chatting amiably, "I am always happy to help, the steppes are a dangerous place to be without... any....." he trails off and stairs up at the roof of the library.... a cloud of smoke can be seen rising in the near distance. A haze of grey shrouding one of the towers. The rhino gapes and stares.... "ALARM! RIng the gongs, seal the Gates!" he charges off, "Attack! Attack the Astronomy tower is under attack! Alarm!" The courtyard is suddenly boiling with activity, people dropping whatever thye are doing, crafts man leaping for weapons stored near at hand, trained wearriors gearing up as quickly as possible. | ||
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+ | Vazkor nods and smiles at Marco, opening his mouth to speak as well before he blinks at the Rhino's sudden outburst, and quickly turns his head to see what the man is gaping at... He blinks again then, and arches his brow as he notices the smoke billowing from the tower, and the winged figure flying off... And he ignores the Rhino as he runs off to call to arms, figuring he has his own problems now, and guessing they have something to do with Raziel. Did the Aegyl go crazy? And with that, he starts racing to the tower. | ||
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+ | It is a long run and Vazkor isn't alone, guards and acolytes racing through the grand trancept to the door to the Astronomy tower. When Vazkor arrives, slightly ahead of everyone else thanks to his amazing phsyique. He is greated by a worrying sight, the door is jammed shut and pinned to it is a stylised raven, drawn with exquisite skill.... | ||
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+ | Vazkor skids to a halt as he arrives at the door, and peers down at the raven... Before he reaches out and tears it off the door, and without much other thought hands it back to a nearby Acolyte, letting them deal with it for now as he has more pressing matters at hand. He briefly tries the door, finding it jammed, and he wastes no more time after, shouting, "STEP BACK!" Before he suddenly shoulders forward into the door! | ||
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+ | Vazkor skids to a halt as he arrives at the door, and peers down at the raven... Before he reaches out and tears it off the door, and without much other thought hands it back to a nearby Acolyte, letting them deal with it for now as he has more pressing matters at hand. He briefly tries the door, finding it jammed, and he wastes no more time after, shouting, "STEP BACK!" Before he suddenly shoulders forward into the door! | ||
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+ | Vazkor grunts as he hits the door pretty solidly... But he ignores the dull pain he caused himself, and simply steps back again, putting some more distance between him and hit before he charges in once more! "Raziel, open this blasted thing if you're there!" | ||
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+ | The door shifts again and someone politely nudges Vazkor to one side, "Allow me lad," Marco murmurmurs, the rhino lifts one large foot and kicks, the door crumples into matchwood and he nods in satisfaction. "Ok lad, your man is up there, ypou first I'll follow!" | ||
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+ | Vazkor rubs at his shoulder at eyes up Marco as the big man simply kicks in that damn door... He nods a bit, and rumbles, "Thanks." Before he smoothly draws his Katana and charges into the room! Letting his gaze flick around this way and that to try and find Raziel, or get an idea of what the hell is going on. | ||
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+ | It is the bottom of a staircase, inside one of the towers.... the stairs wind up and up and up... stopping at doors on the way up. Each door checked is locked as it should be, storage rooms and document files... up and up... to the belfry..... and then u p again past the belfry to the door to the observatory. Crumpled outside uncncious is Acolyte Aliandra, the door is open and gry smoke is wafting out of it, most of it has dispersed by now and inside can be seen an unconcious roo-rat and a nearly unconcious Raziel..... | ||
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+ | Vazkor growls a bit as he ends up wasting time on all those useless doors on the way up, and by the time he gets to the top, he's looking quite grumpy! Though that expression soon changes again, into one of concern, as he looks into the smoke-filled room... Motioning at the people behind him then, he exclaims, "Check your people!" Before he heads towards Raziel's side, crouching down to gently shake him. | ||
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+ | Marco and the other guards quickly help more Ferdinand and Aliandra out of the room and into the fresh air down in the belfry, they suggest Vazkor brings Raziel down there as well.... | ||
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+ | Raziel coughs as he's shaken and he looks up, eyes squinting for a moment before he scrubs at his eyes and starts trying to stagger up and look around for the coin. "That -bitch-," the mage hisses out, his cool demeanor entirely gone. "That stupid named bithc. What aegyl calls themselves 'The Raven'. I swear I'm going to send her down into Ifrit's realm and stake her over the roasting fires and watch her feathers be burnt off." He ruffles through the papers, scattering them everywhere before coughing and nearly falling over again. | ||
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+ | Vazkor lets Raziel rant and rave for a moment... Before he states in a calm voice, "We'll get her, dear, whoever she is... The Raven?" He shakes his head some, and then as Raz nearly falls over again, catches him and supports him, starting to guide him out of the room, "Let's get the hell out of here and you can tell me." | ||
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+ | Downstairs in the Belfry Marco nods to you both as you enter, Ferdinand and Aliandra are being helped by their collegaues and he walks over to you, the Rhino frowning. "Ferdinand says you were attacked by an Aegyl who stole some sort of artifact from you?" he frowns at the stairs and then gapes and bows. "Master....." the room goes quiet as a very elderly, grey furred figure shuffles up the stairs, walking slowly with a long gnarled walking staff. He is a human, his hair as gray as it is possible to be, his body stooped and ancient, dressed in flowing robes and escorted by several others. He pauses at the entrance to the door and looks around, the Mortal Sage himself..... | ||
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+ | Raziel is drawn downstairs, and frankly right now he's in no shape to resist, but by god he looks like he wants to. The man is about to answer Marco, actually it looks like he's about to break out into a cursing fit while describing what happened, but hearing the word 'master' brings him up short. Raziel turns, expecting to see the head priest of the temple library. The man reins himself in with the experience of a lifetime and slowly bows before the high priest before straightening up. His anger continues to seeth under the surface, but for the moment he has himself once more under control. | ||
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+ | Vazkor nods some at Marco as he drags the angry Aegyl down towards the others, starting to answer, "That's it, apparently..." He glances at Raziel for confirmation, before he turns around as the old priest enters, blinking some as everyone around him suddenly bows. Doing the same a few seconds later, a bit awkwardly, having no real idea what to do otherwise. | ||
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+ | The sage looks around, his bushy eyebrows drawn down as he listens to Marco's report then draws himself up, he casts back his cloak and seems to stand tall. "Master Vazkor, Master Raziel of Emberstand, please.... stand before me" he speaks in a warm, authoritive voice." | ||
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+ | Raziel tilts his head towards Marco's recitation and if all is in order, which it likely is given where they are, the man remains silent. He looks towards Vazkor then before turning his eyes to the Sage. After a few moments he steps forward as requested, though for now he remains quite silent. | ||
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+ | Vazkor glances back at Raziel with a questioning look, having no real knowledge of what all of this means, never having been the scholary type, and almost entirely lacking in any magical abilities at that. But as Raziel steps forward as requested, he just gives a minute shrug, and then follows after him. | ||
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+ | The Mortal Sage looks at both men before him and speaks quietly, "Your quest has been placed in jeopody, there are... prophecies concerning the Stelazzio, the fact that Aries has been brought to this temple is of great import. I fear... the balance of the Court of Fate is at risk... your quest for Wings has layers within layers. The raven is known to us, she is a thief, a notorious one who targets magical artifacts. I fear she may try to race ahead of you, to collect the Stelazzio before you..... we shall not permit this. I am empowered to give you both aid, for it was whilst beneath the protection of the Sages that this theft occurred." | ||
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+ | Slowly a brow arches upwards at the mention of prophecies. He continues to remain silent though while the high priest continues. One hand clenches and unclenches, allowing him some type of movement to distract from the anger so that he can start to think of the implications. Eventually he starts to nod though. "I will thank you for that aid then, but before I inquire just what you have in mind. I will ask for information on the prophecies you've spoken of. This is out of my.. sphere of knowledge. As for this.. Raven. I will not allow her to succeed in this." His tone has dipped into a darker, deadly realm. "This I do swear." | ||
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+ | Vazkor listens, but still has no real idea what most of it really means. Well, everything besides the whole thing about the Aegyl thief that is. He understands those! Frowning some, he glances over at Raziel to watch his reaction for a moment, before looking back at the priest, and awaiting his further explanation. | ||
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+ | Closing his eyes the Sage sways and then begins to speak in a low, quiet, singsone tone. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>When Aries comes to the Sage's hall,</b></div> | ||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Stars above begin their siren call,</b></div> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Two children of Terra have come,</b></div> | ||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>A quest for lost flight the song thy thrum</b></div> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>When Winged Darkness throws its ball,</b></div> | ||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Laid low are the eyes lf all that stall,</b></div> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>The heavens quake, the quest begun,</b></div> | ||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Now you must catch her before its done,</b></div> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Restore the Coins, Find the answer,</b></div> | ||
+ | <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Don't forget to bring home her daughter.</b></div> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | Raziel's mouth opens as he prepares to say something, and then he stops as the prophecy is pased on. That it describes the two of them is.. unnerving at best, but as it continues he starts to frown and murmurs to himself. "Restore the Coins, Find the answer.." He looks at Vazkor then, "coins... unless we hurry she'll beat us to the next and we'll lose the trail." As for the daughter, this he doesn't even understand just yet. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Vazkor headtilts at the prophecy... And can atleast halfway make sense of it himself, giving Raziel a questioning glance at the whole 'Two children of Terra have come' bit, and then nodding as the Aegyl starts talking to him, "Then let's not waste any time dear... I saw which way she flew." | ||
+ | |||
+ | Ferdinand hobbles over using his walking staff, "She flies to the location I gave you Raziel, she intends to be there when the stars rise. You must stop her!" The Mortal Sage rests a hand on the brother's shoulder and nods, "We have interpreted some parts of the prophecy but the rest is up to you children, there are twelve Stellazzio, twelve coins of the Zodiac, the great advisors of the webs to Andromeda you must journey to Baguba Port then on to stop her. But first.... first yes... two gifts to aid you in your journey." | ||
+ | |||
+ | Raziel lifts his hand and strokes along his neck for a moment before he nods to Ferdinand in responce, "this is what I would imagine as well.. We'll need a quick mode of transport. On chocobo we might be able to keep up with her, but we won't surpass her." He frowns a little bit in thought before looking over at Vazkor and nodding briefly before he looks back as the mention of gifts is given. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Vazkor listens to the priest again... Before nodding, "We will stop her, sir. This is important to us." Is all he says to him, before commenting to Raziel, "One could hope they have hoverbikes here..." And then falling quiet again to let the priest get to the gift giving. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The Sage chuckles, "I am afraid we do not have Hover Bikes but for your Raziel" he takes a scroll out of his sleeve and holds it out. "For you, this contains a spell, it can be used once, use it when you want things to stay on the ground." He then turns to Vazkor and holds out his hand, "Your Katana please and your old weapons." | ||
+ | |||
+ | Raziel accepts the scroll and looks it over, consideringly before he nods and tucks it away. "This will be key, certainly.." He looks at Vazkor then lifting a brow before realizing that the man does indeed have some new weapons. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Vazkor smiles a bit about the hoverbikes, "Worth a try, sir..." And then watches Raziel receive that scroll, looking curious. But as the priest mentions his weapons next, he blinks, and for a brief moment seems to study him... Before he reaches over with one hand to unsling his wrapped up, melted swords, while the other smoothly pulls free the Katana, sai and all... Handing both over. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The sage holds them in his hands and sighs, "The paths of the future are never easily fortold but I see that these weapons will be needed. Weapons made for but one purpose... to kill... but not who you expect. When the time comes do not hesitate to strike..... all will be well" Lightning wreathes his hands and the melted swords and the katana are engulfed in blue lightning..... | ||
+ | |||
+ | Raziel shakes his head to Vazkor before he looks at the sage. His brow lifts a little and he seems to consider the words, but offers nothing in responce as he focuses on the blades. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Vazkor frowns at those words, but does not yet comment on them... Just looking as the priest starts applying what seems like magic to his blades, and wondering what will come of it... | ||
+ | Lightning crackles back and forth betweeen the blades, he lets go of them and they begin to rotate around each other....... with a flickering crack of thunder they vanish and reappear, a cutlass and katana sheathed and snug at Vazkor's waists. "Use these well, the Lord Ramuh has accepted your old swords and sent you new, courtesy of the Keep of Gilgamesh" | ||
+ | |||
+ | Raziel's brow lifts a bit and he looks to the new weapons before looking at Vazkore, measuring his reaction quietly though he turns his attention again to the high priest and dips his head quietly. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Vazkor drops his gaze to the new swords that suddenly appear at his side... And after a moment, he reaches out both hands to slowly draw them out... Studying the blades as he reveals them and brings them up, seeming both a bit awed, and relieved. Looking past them that, at the priest, he dips into a slow bow, and states calmly "Thank you, sir... I will put them to good use." | ||
+ | |||
+ | The blades glitter with blue energy, it dances from hilt to tip and back again, sparkling and crackling and when he moves them through the air they leave after images of light. "Now you must depart if you are to catch the thief, chocbo's are being saddled for you from my stock. I think you will find they give you an edge to keep up and maybe even beat her to Baguba Port. I will also give you documents which should get you assistance from the Moogle Authorities" | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
Go back to [[Chapter 4|Stelazzio Quest Chapter 4]] | Go back to [[Chapter 4|Stelazzio Quest Chapter 4]] | ||
Latest revision as of 00:41, 15 December 2011
Chapter 5
In the morning the party are woken up by the temple bells ringing in harmony, four mighty bronze tongued beasts atop each tower ringing in the new day! The chimes can probably be heard for miles across the steppes. Your rooms are still dark, the drapes drawn but the call of morning has gone out! A new day has begun!
Raziel startles awake as the bells ring out. He looks around the darkened room for a moment before groaning and slipping out of the bed. His still tired and achy body moving a bit slowly. Dressing then he tosses back the drapes and looks out of the room before glancing over to the bed and noting, "time to get up."
Vazkor stirs a bit as the bells starting ringing... A whole less startled by them than Raziel at that, perhaps due to being a city boy and having grown up with the sound of church bells and the like. He just raises his head off the pillow, and squints at the Aegyl as the throws open the drapes, before grunting and pushing himself out of bed... Moving a bit slow as well as he goes for his clothes and gear as they sit draped across a nearby chair. Having already dug out all his ruined stuff the night before, including those melted swords rolled up in his old rain poncho, "So what's the plan today?" He asks, rumbly.
"The plan is ..." Raziel pauses then walks over to start going through his things to pull out the coin that his people entrusted him with. "We will request an audience with one of the scholar priests familiar with pre-folly artifacts.. well further back than pre-folly. And we'll see what information we can find off of him." The man looks over then, "if we can figure out where this coin originated from then we have a starting point for Aries' journey."
Vazkor hmms some, listening to Raziel's plan as he slides on his trousers, shoves on his boots, and straps on his leather tunic, followed by his swordless sword belt. He nods then, giving a brief, tired smile as he gathers back his hair to put it in a ponytail and get it out of the way, "Alright... Well, get dressed, and I'll follow your lead... Though if you don't mind, I'd also like to find someone that can maybe get me a weapon of somekind."
Once they are dressed and emerge from their chambers they are greeted by a young acolyte in white robes. She bows to you both, "Good morning to you both visitors, would you care to break your fast with us in the refectory? I am Aliandra, your guide whilst you stay with us here at the Temple."
Raziel nods to Vazkor before murmuring, "I hope you will be able to find something." He emerges from the room then, having already dressed, and pauses as the greeting is given. The man bows in responce before he straightens back up again once again. "I thank you for your time and consideration then. I think we would.. and after if one of the priest scholars has time for me I've something that I'm hoping to find some answers out about."
Vazkor greets the acolyte with a bow in return, responding to her, "Good morning, miss... And I could certainly use some breakfast." He smiles, before glancing at Raziel as he makes his request, nodding some and then adding, "And while of less importance, I wonder, would you have some sort of blacksmith or master at arms within your Temple grounds? I'm afraid I need to replace some... Things that got damaged in our unfortunate run-in with a Mesmerize herd."
Aliandra nods her head and motions for you to follow her, "Of course good Master" she addresses Raziel, "Which subjects did you wish to enquire within? I can take you to visit the scholars you wish to see." She then nods to Raziel, "I can direct you to the Captain Smith's Office if you wish after breakfast whilst I escort Master Raziel here to the scholars?"
Raziel follows the woman down the hall and he holds up the disc so she can see it, "ancient artifacts.. And.. or someone that might know history regarding the Zodiac. I know.. actually that will be enough." He catches himself from going into a full explaination and pulls the coin back against his chest again while they're led to the refectory.
Vazkor hmms some and nods, "Thank you, that sounds fine." He glances at Raziel then, "Do you want me to go with you first, dear? I just need to get myself a new sword before we go, but that should be a bit yet, yes?"
SHe regards the coin with mild interest, "Brother Ferdinand will be able to help I am sure, he is our most learned astronomer." She nods to Vazkor and shows you both into the refectory, "Please be seated, enjoy breakfast, I shall be outside. When you are ready I'll have someone show you to the armoury Master Vazkor and take Master Raziel to the Astronomy Tower."
Raziel inclines his head and murmurs his thanks before stepping into the room. The meal is taken in silence, but what they are given is utterly demolished by the mage who's surprisingly hungry this day. Once finished the man nods to Vazkor and then rises and leaves the room to meet up with their guide again. "Thank you for waiting."
Vazkor equally devours his food! Though with probably slightly more finesse and manners. He even is polite enough to hide his burp behind his hand as he pushes his empty playe away, and then gets up to follow after Raziel, "Well, I'll see you in a few hours, hm? I hope you'll learn something useful, dear."
Aliandra bows to VAzkor and hands him over to another acolyte, this quiet man leads him out into the main courtyard of the temple and across it toward a gate leading into yet another interior courtyard. This one has workshops around the outer edge, kilns, paper makers, binders, forge.... He is taken up to a large wooden door, inside is an office and behind it is a very, very large Rhino morph. He nods to Vazkor gently "Morning, what brings you here traveller?" Aliandra meanwhile takes Raziel through a set of doos and down the long path through the central tanscript of the library. "We need to go up the south west tower, Brother Ferdinand lives and works up there if anyone can tell you what that coin is, it is him."
Raziel lifts a hand as Vazkor is led off and then lowers his eyes for a moment. There's a faint shift of his shoulders before the unwinged aegyl turns to follow after Aliandra. He looks around quite a bit as he's led through the building, though a brow lifts in responce to her explaination and he nods in responce. "The higher he is hopefully the less the lights of the city will interfere with the study of the skies perhaps? It's quite understandable."
Vazkor gives Raziel a wave and a smile, before being led away. The man looks around the workshop area with a curious gaze as he's led through it, before stepping through the large door and facing the big Rhino within... He offers the beastkin a smile however, seemingly not intimidated by his size, and simply approaches him as he unslings his wrapped up swords from his back, "Hello, my good man... I wonder if you could help me." He sets the package on the counter, and unwraps it, revealing the two rather melted swords... Though which to an expert eye will still show to have once been something quite special, with an ornate craftmanship that is likely Burmecian in origin, "... I'm afraid I had a run in with some Mesmerize outside your walls... This is the result. So you can see I'm in the business for something to serve as a temporary replacement."
Aliandra smiles at Raziel, "Indeed but this is not a city, it is a just the Temple Library" the large room they are moving throgh is all marble and oak, with tall pillars and what look to be endless stacks of bookcases going off in all directions! It takes five minutes to traverse the main trancept and enter the winding staircase that climbs toward the astronomy tower which is actually ABOVE the belfry all the way up the top! The door is quite sturdy and the floor of the room beyond is stone and the room is curved metal, a dome of some strange substance Raziel will never have seen before. There are about four large telescpes, smaller ones set up at windows arond the room and work benches and tables and charts nd graphs... "Brother Ferdinand? Brother Ferdinand we have a guest?" She calls out and looks around with a frown. "Oh dear I wonder were he has gotten to...."
The rhino nods as Vazkor talks and then frowns at the swords "I see... you did have a run in, what did they do, hit you with lightning?" He touches one of the mangled blades, "I am Smith Captain Marco, this is quite the mangled set." he runs his fingers along the metal. "I can sell you a sword but nothing Burmecian craft I am afraid... as for these.... well. I can give you some names for smiths who might be able to help?"
Raziel continues to look around as they wander though. The library a great interest to him, though he can think of others who would be drooly puddles of want if they were ever allowed in here. Namely Ainsley. The mage doesn't let himself fall behind though as they ascend up into the tower and upon their entry he slows to look around. The telescopes, great and small, each drawing his curiousity as does the strange substance making up the walls of the room. He too looks around then and then considers before tilting his head to the lady, "is it possible that he's still abed? His study is the type that would keep him up late after all."
Vazkor frowns a bit at his swords as he sees their state again... And quickly wraps them back up as he nods, giving the Rhino a quick smile, "Any names like that would be most welcome, sir... As for what I need, I can do without the Burmecian part for the moment, of course. I trust you have perfectly servicable blades yourself... A Cutlass, perhaps? Or a saber? Maybe even a simple longsword. Something suited to my style."
Something hits Raziel atop his head, "I am not abed you young whipper snapper!" An elder kangaroo rat-kin walks around in front of the aegyl and frowns at him, leaning on his cane. His fur completly white, "Why are you disturbing me hmm? What does a wingless Aegly want with me?" he prods the man in the stomach, "I am busy mapping the Marcona Cluster and you come wake me up!" He gives Aliandra a glower and she blushes and bows, "He requested information on the Zodiac learned master, please try and help him." She then smiles at Raziel and steps to the side, "I will wait for you outside."
Marco stands up and nods, beckoning Vazkor to follow him, he opens a door behind his desk and leads Vazkor into a room of swords, he looks around and taps his chin. The room... is just nothing but swords, at the far end is an arch leading into a room of pole arms. There are barrels around the edge of the room filled with swords and above each barrel, hanging on display is the sword type in the barrel. He gestures, "Take your pick Master Vazkor, I will have to charge you for it I am afraid. Now as for smiths who can help you, probably Za'Tana of Salkiawood, Harna Gantha of Giruvegan or Yalita Morabina from Baguba Port."
Raziel decides not to mention that the astronomer just disproved his first statement. Though not abed, still asleep. The man straightens a little bit, not at the cane poking but at being called out so easily for what he is. "How did you.. no nevermind." He shakes his head briefly before nodding to Aliandra and then looking back at Brother Ferdinand. "I'm sorry for interrupting your.. studies, sir.. but the wings are what I've come about. I'm attempting to get them back. My time with my people has led me to believe that this coin holds the key.. and it's leading me somewhere. I had hoped that such a... learned scholar as yourself could assist me." As he speaks he keeps his tone quiet and mild, merely occasionally halting to look for the right word before continuing on. Once the request is put out there he holds out the Stellazio coin for the astronomer to see.
Vazkor arches his brow a bit as he's led into the sword room... And he lets his eyes go over all of them, slowly turning in place as he does, starting to grin a bit. He faces the Rhino again then after a moment, nodding at him firmly, "Quite a collection you have here, good sir. And money won't be an issue. May I?" And with that, he starts wandering past everything on offer... Occassionally picking out a sword that catches his interest, and setting its blade across his hand to figure out it's point of balance... Most he puts back again, but it doesn't take long for him to pick out two swords that seem to agree with him. One a Cutlass like which he always seemed to prefer... The other a Katana. Carrying both back to the Rhino, he grins again, shrugging some at his choice as he holds up the latter, "An indulgence, I'm afraid... It has been quite a while since I saw one of these. They always struck a chord."
Brother Ferdinand drops his cane and stares at the coin in shock, "Tha... That's the Aries! Whwere... hjow.....what..." he sits down with a thump and stares at the coin. "My boy that's /the/ Aries, as in the actual honest for goodness, swear it on Andromeda's name Aries Coin? The starting point! The fist link in the Stelazzio chain, let me see, let me see." he takes the coin and polishes his glasses ad pulls them on to stare at it in awe, hands trembling. Marco laughs and slaps Vazkor on the arm, "No worries boy, the cutlas is one hundred twenty, the Katana... well that is three thousand, those things are not easy to come by these days, very few of the masters still make them." He grins "But I am always happy to sell however, we are the repository of all knowledge, that includes knowing how to make things, not just books."
Raziel's brows come together and then he sighs and nods. "It is.. it's the treasure of my people, given for me to follow the chain in search of Virgo." He lets the coin go before withdrawing his hands slowly. "I will have to return it to my people.. but.. if you'll help me.." He looks lost in thought for a moment before snapping his eyes up quickly, "I'll want for you to make a rubbing of it to keep that within the library at least. I cannot give it up, but it's knowledge I can share."
Vazkor grins some even as he reels a bit from the slap on his arm, "Well, you're very well stocked, good sir. If distance was not an issue, I'd have to put thought into letting you supply my fencing school, hm?" Taking a moment to study the Katane's blade again then, he nods a bit, "Three thousand... A fair enough price for something as well crafted." Setting both blades on the counter then, he starts to unsling his pack to get to some of the money stored there, commenting in the meantime, "And thank you for the names, also... I should be heading to the port city soon, and I'll be sure to seek out this Yalita Morabina."
Brother Ferdinand shakes his head "No.. no I cannot take a rubbing, it would be sacriligious, so... yes yes ther starting point is what you want yes?" he hunts through his papers and scrolls and pulls something out. "Here we go..." he points "Here see, to the west of Baguba Port, about five days time, that it is said where the starting point is. If you have the Aries in that place when the stars are out then it will show you the path and distance to Virgo!" his hands tremble "Oh how I wish I could go with you..." he stares at the coin, stroking it and sighsm "I cannot take a rubbing but I can write down what it says, do you mind?" He moves to his desk, setting the coin down and pilling out pen and ink.
Marco takes payment and chuckles "Well I hope she can help you, Morabina is a bit of an insane one I should warn you, but all Moogle's are. But she makes very good work and she is known for being able to restore things to their original condition. If she cannot help you then I am sure she can suggest other names." He smiles, "Now then you will be wanting the sai for that Katana, let me just get you one."
Raziel considers before nodding a little in responce. Not regretting making the offer despite him saying it's sacreligious. The man listens closely and lifts a hand to rub over his chin before he murmurs, "it seems vague. 'Have Aries in that place'.. But I will trust you and pray that I do not make a misstep." His brow lifts then before the mage motions, "by all means. In this place knowledge is meant to be shared and you have illuminated me as I had hoped."
Vazkor slings his pack back across his shoulder after he finished paying, having it be considerably lighter now, and retrieves his wrapped up, ruined swords as well before he waits for Marco to get the Sai for his brand new Katana, chuckling lightly as he does, "It seems alot of times, such genius comes with insanity... I do not mind, if it means having good work done." Once he gets everything he needs from Marco, he starts attaching his new blades to his belt... Actually doing it the proper way with the Katana at that, as if already familiar with such. Raising a hand then, he remarks, "Thank you for your help, I'm much obliged. There will be plenty of dangers ahead of me that require good swordwork." And with that, after one final greeting, he steps back out, hoping to find an Acolyte that can bring him to Raziel.
A voice calls out from above, "Oh yes, very illuminating, most fascinating Brother" there is a rustle of wings and looking up Raziel gets chance to see the intruder. An aegyl woman, dressed completly in black, her hair tied back and hidden beneath a hood. Despite the shadows under her cowl the Aegyl gets a good look at her face, good enough that he'd recognize her if he saw her again, but she is not anyone he recognizes. "The raven thanks you both for giving me such fascinating information." She then hurls something at Brother Ferdinand.... something. Raziel leaps and manages to catch it, only to have it explode, smoke flooding his lungs. There are several more paf, paf, pafs and the brother can be heard coughing. The room fills with smoke, there is a sudden downdraft... the flap of wings, a creak of wood and then more wing beats as the smoke flows through ther room!
"The Raven, what a horrible.." Just as he's about to insult her choice of 'fancy' names he spots the projectile and he interposes himself while catching it. As it explodes the man fals back towards the kangaroo rat and then starts trying to cover his mouth while at the same time choking out, "Protect the coin.." In fact he doesn't launch off a fireball, which would be his usual action, but instead turns to try and grab get his hand on 'Aries', to make sure that it doesn't get stolen in the confusion. The artifact and man with the knowledge his priorities.. and in that order.
"Brother.. brother...." coughing.... Aliandra has rushed in only to be driven back out of the room by the smoke coughing loudly. Brother Ferdinand can be heard to land on the floor with a thump..... the smoke is thick, cloying but it is already starting to fade. It doesn't help that the sheer amount of it drives Raziel to his knees, still awake, just but weak now... as the smoke clears.......
Marco sees Vazkor outside, chatting amiably, "I am always happy to help, the steppes are a dangerous place to be without... any....." he trails off and stairs up at the roof of the library.... a cloud of smoke can be seen rising in the near distance. A haze of grey shrouding one of the towers. The rhino gapes and stares.... "ALARM! RIng the gongs, seal the Gates!" he charges off, "Attack! Attack the Astronomy tower is under attack! Alarm!" The courtyard is suddenly boiling with activity, people dropping whatever thye are doing, crafts man leaping for weapons stored near at hand, trained wearriors gearing up as quickly as possible.
Vazkor nods and smiles at Marco, opening his mouth to speak as well before he blinks at the Rhino's sudden outburst, and quickly turns his head to see what the man is gaping at... He blinks again then, and arches his brow as he notices the smoke billowing from the tower, and the winged figure flying off... And he ignores the Rhino as he runs off to call to arms, figuring he has his own problems now, and guessing they have something to do with Raziel. Did the Aegyl go crazy? And with that, he starts racing to the tower.
It is a long run and Vazkor isn't alone, guards and acolytes racing through the grand trancept to the door to the Astronomy tower. When Vazkor arrives, slightly ahead of everyone else thanks to his amazing phsyique. He is greated by a worrying sight, the door is jammed shut and pinned to it is a stylised raven, drawn with exquisite skill....
Vazkor skids to a halt as he arrives at the door, and peers down at the raven... Before he reaches out and tears it off the door, and without much other thought hands it back to a nearby Acolyte, letting them deal with it for now as he has more pressing matters at hand. He briefly tries the door, finding it jammed, and he wastes no more time after, shouting, "STEP BACK!" Before he suddenly shoulders forward into the door!
Vazkor skids to a halt as he arrives at the door, and peers down at the raven... Before he reaches out and tears it off the door, and without much other thought hands it back to a nearby Acolyte, letting them deal with it for now as he has more pressing matters at hand. He briefly tries the door, finding it jammed, and he wastes no more time after, shouting, "STEP BACK!" Before he suddenly shoulders forward into the door!
Vazkor grunts as he hits the door pretty solidly... But he ignores the dull pain he caused himself, and simply steps back again, putting some more distance between him and hit before he charges in once more! "Raziel, open this blasted thing if you're there!"
The door shifts again and someone politely nudges Vazkor to one side, "Allow me lad," Marco murmurmurs, the rhino lifts one large foot and kicks, the door crumples into matchwood and he nods in satisfaction. "Ok lad, your man is up there, ypou first I'll follow!"
Vazkor rubs at his shoulder at eyes up Marco as the big man simply kicks in that damn door... He nods a bit, and rumbles, "Thanks." Before he smoothly draws his Katana and charges into the room! Letting his gaze flick around this way and that to try and find Raziel, or get an idea of what the hell is going on.
It is the bottom of a staircase, inside one of the towers.... the stairs wind up and up and up... stopping at doors on the way up. Each door checked is locked as it should be, storage rooms and document files... up and up... to the belfry..... and then u p again past the belfry to the door to the observatory. Crumpled outside uncncious is Acolyte Aliandra, the door is open and gry smoke is wafting out of it, most of it has dispersed by now and inside can be seen an unconcious roo-rat and a nearly unconcious Raziel.....
Vazkor growls a bit as he ends up wasting time on all those useless doors on the way up, and by the time he gets to the top, he's looking quite grumpy! Though that expression soon changes again, into one of concern, as he looks into the smoke-filled room... Motioning at the people behind him then, he exclaims, "Check your people!" Before he heads towards Raziel's side, crouching down to gently shake him.
Marco and the other guards quickly help more Ferdinand and Aliandra out of the room and into the fresh air down in the belfry, they suggest Vazkor brings Raziel down there as well....
Raziel coughs as he's shaken and he looks up, eyes squinting for a moment before he scrubs at his eyes and starts trying to stagger up and look around for the coin. "That -bitch-," the mage hisses out, his cool demeanor entirely gone. "That stupid named bithc. What aegyl calls themselves 'The Raven'. I swear I'm going to send her down into Ifrit's realm and stake her over the roasting fires and watch her feathers be burnt off." He ruffles through the papers, scattering them everywhere before coughing and nearly falling over again.
Vazkor lets Raziel rant and rave for a moment... Before he states in a calm voice, "We'll get her, dear, whoever she is... The Raven?" He shakes his head some, and then as Raz nearly falls over again, catches him and supports him, starting to guide him out of the room, "Let's get the hell out of here and you can tell me."
Downstairs in the Belfry Marco nods to you both as you enter, Ferdinand and Aliandra are being helped by their collegaues and he walks over to you, the Rhino frowning. "Ferdinand says you were attacked by an Aegyl who stole some sort of artifact from you?" he frowns at the stairs and then gapes and bows. "Master....." the room goes quiet as a very elderly, grey furred figure shuffles up the stairs, walking slowly with a long gnarled walking staff. He is a human, his hair as gray as it is possible to be, his body stooped and ancient, dressed in flowing robes and escorted by several others. He pauses at the entrance to the door and looks around, the Mortal Sage himself.....
Raziel is drawn downstairs, and frankly right now he's in no shape to resist, but by god he looks like he wants to. The man is about to answer Marco, actually it looks like he's about to break out into a cursing fit while describing what happened, but hearing the word 'master' brings him up short. Raziel turns, expecting to see the head priest of the temple library. The man reins himself in with the experience of a lifetime and slowly bows before the high priest before straightening up. His anger continues to seeth under the surface, but for the moment he has himself once more under control.
Vazkor nods some at Marco as he drags the angry Aegyl down towards the others, starting to answer, "That's it, apparently..." He glances at Raziel for confirmation, before he turns around as the old priest enters, blinking some as everyone around him suddenly bows. Doing the same a few seconds later, a bit awkwardly, having no real idea what to do otherwise.
The sage looks around, his bushy eyebrows drawn down as he listens to Marco's report then draws himself up, he casts back his cloak and seems to stand tall. "Master Vazkor, Master Raziel of Emberstand, please.... stand before me" he speaks in a warm, authoritive voice."
Raziel tilts his head towards Marco's recitation and if all is in order, which it likely is given where they are, the man remains silent. He looks towards Vazkor then before turning his eyes to the Sage. After a few moments he steps forward as requested, though for now he remains quite silent.
Vazkor glances back at Raziel with a questioning look, having no real knowledge of what all of this means, never having been the scholary type, and almost entirely lacking in any magical abilities at that. But as Raziel steps forward as requested, he just gives a minute shrug, and then follows after him.
The Mortal Sage looks at both men before him and speaks quietly, "Your quest has been placed in jeopody, there are... prophecies concerning the Stelazzio, the fact that Aries has been brought to this temple is of great import. I fear... the balance of the Court of Fate is at risk... your quest for Wings has layers within layers. The raven is known to us, she is a thief, a notorious one who targets magical artifacts. I fear she may try to race ahead of you, to collect the Stelazzio before you..... we shall not permit this. I am empowered to give you both aid, for it was whilst beneath the protection of the Sages that this theft occurred."
Slowly a brow arches upwards at the mention of prophecies. He continues to remain silent though while the high priest continues. One hand clenches and unclenches, allowing him some type of movement to distract from the anger so that he can start to think of the implications. Eventually he starts to nod though. "I will thank you for that aid then, but before I inquire just what you have in mind. I will ask for information on the prophecies you've spoken of. This is out of my.. sphere of knowledge. As for this.. Raven. I will not allow her to succeed in this." His tone has dipped into a darker, deadly realm. "This I do swear."
Vazkor listens, but still has no real idea what most of it really means. Well, everything besides the whole thing about the Aegyl thief that is. He understands those! Frowning some, he glances over at Raziel to watch his reaction for a moment, before looking back at the priest, and awaiting his further explanation.
Closing his eyes the Sage sways and then begins to speak in a low, quiet, singsone tone.
Raziel's mouth opens as he prepares to say something, and then he stops as the prophecy is pased on. That it describes the two of them is.. unnerving at best, but as it continues he starts to frown and murmurs to himself. "Restore the Coins, Find the answer.." He looks at Vazkor then, "coins... unless we hurry she'll beat us to the next and we'll lose the trail." As for the daughter, this he doesn't even understand just yet.
Vazkor headtilts at the prophecy... And can atleast halfway make sense of it himself, giving Raziel a questioning glance at the whole 'Two children of Terra have come' bit, and then nodding as the Aegyl starts talking to him, "Then let's not waste any time dear... I saw which way she flew."
Ferdinand hobbles over using his walking staff, "She flies to the location I gave you Raziel, she intends to be there when the stars rise. You must stop her!" The Mortal Sage rests a hand on the brother's shoulder and nods, "We have interpreted some parts of the prophecy but the rest is up to you children, there are twelve Stellazzio, twelve coins of the Zodiac, the great advisors of the webs to Andromeda you must journey to Baguba Port then on to stop her. But first.... first yes... two gifts to aid you in your journey."
Raziel lifts his hand and strokes along his neck for a moment before he nods to Ferdinand in responce, "this is what I would imagine as well.. We'll need a quick mode of transport. On chocobo we might be able to keep up with her, but we won't surpass her." He frowns a little bit in thought before looking over at Vazkor and nodding briefly before he looks back as the mention of gifts is given.
Vazkor listens to the priest again... Before nodding, "We will stop her, sir. This is important to us." Is all he says to him, before commenting to Raziel, "One could hope they have hoverbikes here..." And then falling quiet again to let the priest get to the gift giving.
The Sage chuckles, "I am afraid we do not have Hover Bikes but for your Raziel" he takes a scroll out of his sleeve and holds it out. "For you, this contains a spell, it can be used once, use it when you want things to stay on the ground." He then turns to Vazkor and holds out his hand, "Your Katana please and your old weapons."
Raziel accepts the scroll and looks it over, consideringly before he nods and tucks it away. "This will be key, certainly.." He looks at Vazkor then lifting a brow before realizing that the man does indeed have some new weapons.
Vazkor smiles a bit about the hoverbikes, "Worth a try, sir..." And then watches Raziel receive that scroll, looking curious. But as the priest mentions his weapons next, he blinks, and for a brief moment seems to study him... Before he reaches over with one hand to unsling his wrapped up, melted swords, while the other smoothly pulls free the Katana, sai and all... Handing both over.
The sage holds them in his hands and sighs, "The paths of the future are never easily fortold but I see that these weapons will be needed. Weapons made for but one purpose... to kill... but not who you expect. When the time comes do not hesitate to strike..... all will be well" Lightning wreathes his hands and the melted swords and the katana are engulfed in blue lightning.....
Raziel shakes his head to Vazkor before he looks at the sage. His brow lifts a little and he seems to consider the words, but offers nothing in responce as he focuses on the blades.
Vazkor frowns at those words, but does not yet comment on them... Just looking as the priest starts applying what seems like magic to his blades, and wondering what will come of it... Lightning crackles back and forth betweeen the blades, he lets go of them and they begin to rotate around each other....... with a flickering crack of thunder they vanish and reappear, a cutlass and katana sheathed and snug at Vazkor's waists. "Use these well, the Lord Ramuh has accepted your old swords and sent you new, courtesy of the Keep of Gilgamesh"
Raziel's brow lifts a bit and he looks to the new weapons before looking at Vazkore, measuring his reaction quietly though he turns his attention again to the high priest and dips his head quietly.
Vazkor drops his gaze to the new swords that suddenly appear at his side... And after a moment, he reaches out both hands to slowly draw them out... Studying the blades as he reveals them and brings them up, seeming both a bit awed, and relieved. Looking past them that, at the priest, he dips into a slow bow, and states calmly "Thank you, sir... I will put them to good use."
The blades glitter with blue energy, it dances from hilt to tip and back again, sparkling and crackling and when he moves them through the air they leave after images of light. "Now you must depart if you are to catch the thief, chocbo's are being saddled for you from my stock. I think you will find they give you an edge to keep up and maybe even beat her to Baguba Port. I will also give you documents which should get you assistance from the Moogle Authorities"
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