Sin of the People

The 11 Zodiacs pondered. How best to catch Virgo's heart? Aries headed east.

Taurus had an idea. He would give Virgo a gift. Through the forest and over the mountain, he found a star

Gemini thought by the river, 'I will sing her a song.

Cancer headed to the cape where Virgo waited. The sun was setting into the ocean. Would he finally see her?

Prologue

The temple of Mog! Quiet, peaceful at this time of day... careful it might be a trap... Mogs are inside! Mogs!"

Well.. it's late, but no reason not to come calling.. and when your trying to tap someone for info-errr to have a pleasant visit you should always bring a gift. Raziel moves through the temple district and pauses at the entry of the temple before he enters with the small gift bag and a bottle.

The heavy clock work powered doors are open, the light in the grand vestibule is bright and warm and the lights coming out of the two temple chambers is also bright albeit one is green and the other orange! An acolyte glances down at Raziel from atop the stairs and waves, "Kupo! Welcome the Mog Dance is starting come insider!"

Raziel blinks at the multi hued lights and he looks around for a moment, backing up a step immediately before he's spotted. He looks up and his brows lift for a moment before he quietly inquires... "Dance?" To his credit his voice didn't squeak when asking that.

The moogle smiles, "For evening worship in the temple of Mog! The Mog Dance is starting, or are you here for evening song with Famfrit?"

Raziel shakes his head a little and looks within then back once more, "I wished to speak with the priestess Moiraine.. but if the worship is about to commence I can wait here until it is all finished. I would not wish to interrupt anyone."

The moogle shakes his head, "The High Priestess is in her chambers" he points to the door at the back of the foyer, "Go on through, see if she will see you"

Raziel relaxes then since it doesn't seem that he'll have to randomly join in just because he arrived. The man thinks about that for a moment longer and then smirks as he heads for the priestess' chambers at how dumb such a conclusion was. The man pauses before the door and then raps on it quietly.

The Moogle Priestess calls out from within, "Come in Raziel, shut the door behind you." Inside the sandy coloured moogle is sat at a desk writing something in a large tome.

Raziel blinks then steps inside. "How did you know it was me?" He inquires before walking over to the desk and after a quick glance at the tome, not long enough to read whats being written though, he extends his hands. One holding a small bag and the other the bottle. "I heard that when visiting someone it's polite to bring a gift. So.. here. The bottle is filled with a cherry cordial." And in the bag are little mini petit fours."

Moiraine eyes Raziel and points to a mirror on one wall. "We have much technology in this place, I can see everyone who comes through the door reflected in that." She then settles back, putting her quill to one side and regards Raziel. "A gift? How very kind of you my friend"

"Well.. it's late, thank you for seeing me.." He looks at the mirror curiously for a few moments before setting down both of the gifts and then taking a seat. "And how are you doing, priestess?"

Moiraine pours herself some of the cherry cordial into a beaker and snffs it "Oooh Cherry, my mother was always cherry flavoured and I have been well. Busy with my life here at the temple"

Raziel starts to nod, but finds himself suddenly tilting his head a bit while his brows shoot up, "I... excuse me, but did you just say your mother was cherry flavoured??"

Moiraine says, "Oh my yes kupo-po," she waves a hand, "Every moogle has their own distinctive scent, a flavour if you will and besides my mother wasn't quite what you'd call a normal kupo. Anyway it is nice of you to drop on by and see me Raziel.""

Raziel's head remains tilted for a few long moments and then he shakes it some. "I.. see... well humans do too, though nothing usually so.. fruity." He dips his head and then motions to the bag of cakes, "I was told those are good too.. and thank you for seeing me. I admit that my purpose was exactly without purpose though."

Moiraine says, "I thought it might not be dear, humans rarely seek out the High Priestess of Mog unless they are after something. So my friend what is it you want?""

I'm not hu.. actually I suppose I am now." He glances over his shoulder and then back while leaning forward, "you said before that you might know something about the Mist Dragon and the Aegyl's history with them that you would share. I also tried getting information from the library.. but a certain spirit decided it was a wonderful time to go and fog up the place.."

Moiraine smiles "Yes I heard about that, she won;'t touch the temple of Mog though, she'd not want to interfere in his domain or Famfrits" She stands up and beckons you to follow her as she moves toward the door "I can show you the history"

Raziel exhales and then murmurs, "for someone upset about something that has passed, she does not seem to want to make my job solving it any easier.." He stands up then and follows after while dipping his head a little bit, "I thank youf or helping me with this."

Moiraine says, "She's a very upset dragon, they do not forget easily" She leads you out into the main foyer and checks it is empty. The large circular chamber is currently empty and she raises one hand and the doors to the two temples and the front door slide shut. "Ok stand with me in the middle" she moves to the central mosaic."

Raziel looks around as the doors close and then walks over to stand beside you while tilting his head a little bit, "it seems so. I wonder what my kin did to her. Not much would surprise me though."

Moiraine she eyes Raziel then presses one of the studs on the floor, tje mosaic map of the world rumbles and the central keystone of the circular foyer sinks down, carrying us into the depths. "You'll see soon enough."

Raziel freezes, staggering a little bit at the sudden change. Someone's sense of balance is still correcting itself. And then he looks over a brow lifts before a mere nod is given beofre he looks around and waits for the elevator to finish it's journey.

At the bottom she steps off and waves Raziel to follow, she pushes a switch and the platform raises back up, "Come" She leads him down a long winding corridor and stops outside a door of obsidian and pulls out a large key.

Raziel follows after while looking around, "your people are full of surprises I see." He smirks a little for a brief moment before stopping before the doorway.

Moiraine says, "Oh not really, this is a triple temple is all" she turns the key, there is a hiss of steam and clanking of clock work and then the door slides open revcealing a chamber of gleaming metal, models of airships, brilliant, fanciful metal airships stand on pedestals"

Raziel considers then he nods a little bit and looks aroung, his brows lifting slowly before he murmurs, "airships.." There's a little nod dbefore he steps in and allows his gaze to linger here and there before pausing and looking back once more.

At the end of the chamber is a huge, sleek, long, beautiful Airship. Moiraine bows to it, "This is the Shrine to Ark, it is... very precious to Moogles and many others who admire technololgy"

Raziel's eyes lift as he notes the bow and then he inclines his head, giving respect to the spirit even though he might not follow it. Nodding then to you he murmurs, "I have no hand for it, but Ican appreciate the ease that it imparts into our lives. I.. thank you for bringing me here."

Moiraine smiles and shakes her head and walks over to one of the pedestal and touches it, "Do you know much about the lore of Ark? Of the Fleet of Spirit Ships that dwell within the Lost City kupo?" "I cannot say that I do. Though I'd decided recently to pursue study of spirits to become a summoner myself, I don't know much of them at this point in time. Share withme, if you would?" Raziel follows after you while looking up at the great airship.

Moiraine sits down at the base of the pedestal, "These are the spirit ships, the great constructs, ther airships of ther ages that all pay homage to Ark, the ultimate spirit of technology." She points up "This is the Lunar Whale... it is a very grand old spirit."

Raziel steps closer, within arms reach, of the ship and looks up over it. Literally dwarfed by the ship's size. He tilts his head and then frowns to himself and looks back as some thought occurs. "Did the aegyl use the Mist Dragon to somehow bring down one of these?"

Moiraine says, "The Aegyl... used dark, forbidden rituals to force the Mist Dragon, or part of her to power the Lunar Whale and control it.""

Raziel lowers his gaze and doesn't seem to react much. Except for his hands which slowly have balled into fists. He remains silent for a long few moments before he looks up at the ship again. "You have my sincere apology.. though I can see why it would not be enough." He looks over at you then and nods slowly. "I understand now.. though what I can do to appease the spirit I'm not sure. This must have happened long ago.. and the reason I would not have known is obvious. No one would want to admit our people having done something such as this."

Moiraine smiles softly and shrugs, "For those answers you must seek elsewere, I cannot help you, I do not know what would appease the Mist Dragon, or the Lunar Whale here, you must seek those answers elsewere in the world kupo,"

Raziel nods slowly and then exhales. "Thank you Moiraine.. I appreciate that you showed me this." He closes his eyes then before exhaling, his thoughts tucked firmly away for now. "I will have to ponder on this more and will travel back to my homeland and see what I can dig up there."

Moiraine says, "Good luck kupo, I wish I could come with you but I have my temple to attend to here kupo-po"" "You've done much already.. thank you Moiraine." He offers a little bit of a smile before it fades. For a moment it looks like he's trying to think of something more to say. Shaking his head a little bit then before turning to walk back towards the elevator.

Moiraine leads Raziel back outside and stops once they are back in the entrance hall and kupos, "Sorry I cannot do more, but I am glad what I have told you has helped"

Raziel nods quietly, "I appreciate it and it is more than enough. I'll look for more answers eslewhere. Please enjoy the cakes and cordial. I'm glad that I got something near and dear to your heart."

Moiraine leads him to the steps, placing a paw on his arm, "You will do well kupo and thank you, take care now!"

---

Missing Log File (included Raziel and Vazkor hiring a ship to take them to Archades)

Chapter 1

The airship Raziel and Vazkor have payed for their trip to Old Archades upon is rising up through the great mountains, sailking toward the pass of Nalbina and the empire beyong it. It is a slow, COLD journey, ice hanging from the rigging, thick clouds streaming past to either side. The captain is stood in the wheel house staring out at the world ahead worriedly.

Raziel emerges from the cabin he and Vazkor share to check on the weather before he frowns a little and lays a hand on the sleeve of his shirt, one he stole from Vazkor, and then turns to approach the wheel house. "Clouds and cold temperatures. If the wind kicks up more I suspect we are in for a rough trip. At least that's what I assume your frowning over, captain."

The Captain shakes his head, "Rough weather I can be dealing with lad, what I worry about is Cloud Devils, elementals spawned of hte mist that lurk in these mountains causing havoc on honest ships" He looks around and frowns "I suspect we will have issues with them soon"

Raziel looks off into the clouds for a moment before muttering, "I'd not thought of that." And why should he? No sane aegyl would fly through heavy clouds. Lack of visibility and unpredictable storms both make it treacherous. The mage begins to back away and turn to the side of the ship while murmuring, "I'll help your men keep watch."

The captain nods his thanks and the day passes, the ship continues to fly onward, sailing through the grey haze of the clouds. The day passes slowly but in the end someone shouts and screams and points. In the fog a bright burning light! Several lights... a ship on flames, still falling through the clouds silently and heading directly toward the ship!

Raziel lifts his head and his eyes widen for a moment before he backs up a step. Not a practioner of the protective arts a white mage employes, and knowing that there's no time to pull Vazkor out of the cabin and abandon ship, the mage does the only thing that comes to mind. He begins to cast, summoning up the ice powers he had neglected until more recent times, in an effort to hit the falling ship from the side and knock it off it's deadly course into something less... deadly.

The sheep crashes into the side of the Airship even as Raziel casts, there is screaming from the other vessel, you can see dead bodies ont he deck but three people still screaming, clutching to one another. As the ships crash the only man seizes two of them, a woman and her child and tosses them over the railing as the ships strike. The rigging tangles, flames leaping from one to the other. The woman and her child stumble across the deck caught by one of the deck hands but the large man slams into Raziel, he catches the former Aegyl and the two spin but Raziel is able to pull his spell off. The ice spell slams into the ship and it lurches aside, drifting free of the entangling rigging and drops out of sight still burning. However the rigging of YOUR ship is now alight......

Raziel lets out a sound, a mixture between a grunt and a yelp of surprise, as he's slammed into. A brief glance at the man and then a nod as he glances towards the woman and child before turning to look up at the rigging. He lets out a curse, water magics not being his forte, and then calls to one of the sailors. "Water now.. I will do what I can with magics to hold it off." Which he then begins to do, attempting to freeze the worst of it.

The spell goes off easily, ice encloses some of the fire but not others threads of flame, it darts and burns an dhisses its way along the rigging and sailors start throwing water at it and doing their best but it is spreading. The captain hurries up and stares, not worried about the refugee's for now "We have to pyt it out before it spreads to the deck or we are lost"

A brief glance is cast towards the captain before the mage mutters. "Sadly I've neither wind nor water magics to aid here. I may be able to.." He looks down and then around before muttering to the captain, "get everyone off the deck. Now." He then lifts his voice while moving towards the survivors from the other ship. Everyone get below decks!" The child is grabbed and lifted into his arms before he starts running towards the door into the cabin he and Vaz share. Turning back then he waits for people to start moving and then begins to cast once more, eyes closing as blue waves of ice magic start to flow around he and the kid both and murmured words give shape and form to the power to create a ice sheet acrossed the deck of the ship."

The ice crackles across the deck..... the fire falls and melts the ice but after about 30 minute it has burnt itself out. The rigging is ruined however and so are the masts, charred and blackened. The captain stands on the deck and looks up. "This is bad, we will have to set down someplace and repair"

Raziel put the child down immediately after the spell went off and there was no risk of them running back out into it. Once the fire was out and the deck safe enough to move on the man follows the captain and looks up before frowning and nodding, "unfortunate, but at least the ship did not follow the way of the other. Hopefully the repairs will not take long." Though from the frown he's wearing it's obvious that the man thinks they will.

The Captain sighs and waves a hand, "We can repair this in a few hours" He gives orders to land and the ship begins to sink. "BUt we must land on the mountain side..... now I must speak to our guersts"

"Risky, but again no choice... of course captain, I won't keep you from them." He moves away and checks around the deck, making sure nothing is still smoldering. Before helping what sailors aren't working on landing the ship to clean up and figure out what's salvageable and what isn't.

Chapter 2

The Airship is down! Somewhere north of Nalbina, on the Empire side of the mountains, still a good half mile up, just into the tree line. It is perched and secured to the ground after a frantic scramble by the crew, the good news is you are not dead, the bad news is.. the airship is down, the masts and rigging are destroyed and there are fiends in the forest!

Raziel steps out onto the deck when they land and are secured then he looks for the captain while sending a frown up towards the ruined masts that the sailors are working with. "A dangerous place.. how long do you estimate it will take to finish with the repairs," he inquires before glancing back over his shoulder towards the cabin he and Vazkor share.

Vazkor comes stumbling out of said cabin! His hair a messy, his clothes haphazardly thrown on, and his expression a mix of groggyness and confusion... Though atleast he had the presence of mind to come out with his sword in hand, in case all the commotion means trouble, such as a pirate raid. And as his gaze meets Raziel's, he raises a brow questioningly, "What the balls is going on?"

The captain turns, "We had to land, a flaming ship came out of the mist and hit us, we rescued four people and then had to land." He eyes Vazkor and Raziel, "We are going no where until I have new masts, I am sending a crew out to chop down two suitable trees but they are sailors, I need warriors and mages to proect them, can you help?"

Raziel has dropped a connection. "That's no trouble," Raz responds with a nod as he volunteers both himself and Vazkor to do it. "As long as the ship remains safe we'll get your crew back to you." He reaches over to clap Vazkor on the shoulder then leans to whisper, "your hair is standing straight up. Might want to get your.. uh things.." Before he straightens back up and grips onto the ringed staff he carries with both hands.

Vazkor glances at the Captain, then takes a moment to study what lies around the ship... Finding it indeed to be on a mountainside. Reaching over to resheath his sword in that peculiar trademark, Samurai-ish way of his, he mutters something about 'not again', then blinks over at Raziel. Giving a sheepish grin, he smooths out his hair some with a hand, and starts straightening some of his clothes, before answering, "If that's what it takes to get us out of here."

The captain nods, "Sorry boys but that's the short of it" In about twenty minutes he has a crew under the bosun eady to head out into the woods. He points a direction, "we need to go down, pick a tree and take it down. You boys are our protection what's the order of march and all that?"

Raziel looks at the group and he then glances at Vazkor, "you take point, I'll take the rear?" He looks over the group then, "and whichever of you ends up doing lookout duty the most? Take center line and keep your eyes peeled hmm?" He smirks briefly and one might wonder that despite the danger they're obviously going into and the lingering anger that is driving him on this quest if the man isn't enjoying himself just a little.

Vazkor nods at the Captain and Raziel both, commenting to the latter, "Aye, so better keep your fire spells nice and ready. I'm sure we'll be needing them before long." Twitching his lips into a brief smirk afterwards, as well as giving Raziel a wink, he then starts to get ready to get off the ship and safely lead the men towards the first suitable tree. The swashbuckler once more drawing his sword as he goes.

The passage through the woods is quiet, the bosun is up with Vazkor leading the way, examining trees, pausing every now and then to look at one considering things. The forest is dark, dank and quiet, mist flows around the tree-trunks and the foliage on the floor muffles their footfalls.

Raziel's eyes narrow a little and he tilts his head before he reaches out and taps the man infront of him before whispering lowly, "tell the others to stop and Vaz to come back here. We're being tailed." The mage turns around then and lifts his staff and tilts it to the side a little while he looks around, listening for any tell tale signs while looking for the shadow again.

Vazkor moves carefully in the lead... Looking this way and that, trying to look right through the surrounding mist and gloom. Arching an eyebrow as he's tapped on his shoulder however, and leaning in as the man behind him whispers something in his ear, he starts frowning right after... And signals that same man to keep an eye out, before starting down the line to get to Raziel, muttering quietly, "What did you see, lad?"

The forest is dark, dank.... cold, mist flows around everyones feet, up to the knees almost, the crew are looking around nervously at having been made to stop. Something is up, thye know it.

Raziel takes a breath before he shakes his head a little bit, "I thought I saw something following us... humanoid, but large.." He frowns a little bit before glancing down at the mist then lifting his eyes once again. "It feels like we're being watched.. The only solution would be to wait for it to attack or to brighten the area and hope we can find it. Which do you think?"

Vazkor looks around, trying to spot whatever Raziel saw... Shrugging a tiny bit then, though, he suggests, "Better move on... The sooner we get this over with, the better. But if you can use your magic to light up the place, then that'd be most welcome... And better keep something for offense ready too." Giving Raziel's shoulder a squeeze then, followed by a quick smile, he turns back around after to get back to the front of the line. Telling the men to keep their weapons at hand and prepare for likely danger.

You both see it, Raziel a bit faster then the others, something large and man-like with swinging arms charging out of the trees down by the mid-way point of the line of Sailors. It is some sort of very large, rather mutated ape thing and it roars and swings at one of the sailors who staggers back with an oath.

The mage was on high alert quickly spots the oncoming creature. Before he even starts to take in the details the man has begun to cast, beads of fire coming into existance in the place where his wings once were. In fact it almost looks like, for an instant, that he has wings of fire, but the magics move on, running up over his shoulders and down his hands to his staff. He twirls it once and then swings it shooting out a blast of flame at the creature as it rushes towards a sailor.

Vazkor snaps his head towards the charging creature as soon as he spots it! And the man is quick to react, swinging his blade for a moment before bellowing out, "Close the lines! Get in a circle! Fiends rarely attack alone!" Ordering the men even as he watches Raziel cast that blast of fire, and then starts to quickly look around for other attackers- Letting the mage and any nearby sailors deal with the one creature by themselves, atleast for this very moment.

"WENDIGO!" One of the sailors shouts and with a scream he runs away, no one else panics, they draw together, drawing belaying pins and staffs and forming into a ring around the tools and supplies and the Bosun, the flaming ball of fire rams into the creature and it screams in pain! Beating at itself then lashing out at a neaby sailor, knocking it back, the bosun shouts, "Wendigo's clear their range of any ther fiends! It'll be alone!"

Raziel scowls after the runner, but doesn't say anything. The man can find his own damned way back. As the beast lashes out he first checks the man for wounds at a quick glance and then he points the still glowing staff at the creature. "Careful lest it incite rage..." He mutters something lowly, the power in the staff glows brighter and then he swings again, lobbing another ball of flame at the monster.

Vazkor scowls as he hears the shout of 'Wendigo!' but is atleast quick to go for the attack as soon as he learns the beast will be alone. Waiting an instant for Raziel's second attack to hit home, before the swashbuckler springs forward past the frightened sailors, moving with speed and power as he brings forward that cutlass in a swift, vicious arc to attempt to cleave at the beast.

The wendigo shrieks as more fire engulfs it and then it squeals as Vazkor slashes it, it staggers back, roars in rage and lashes out at the shimmering image of what might once have been the space in whick Vazkor was standing and the overly agile swordsman slashes at the Wendigo again in the opening provided, the beast screams as Vazkor's blades sinks into its burning chest and it crumples to the floor, quite, quite dead.......

The movements, too fast for Raziel to catch, cause the mage to blink while the creature crumples. Looking to Vazkor then he smirks briefly and nods while the magic fades from his staff and he steps over to the man that was initially attacked and sees to a quick healing spell before he steps back. "The local area should be clear for a bit.. but we should get moving before scavengers get brave enough to come and get their... dinner."

Vazkor moves with a speed which has no place in time, springing forward so quickly as to appear to be a mere blur, a glimpse of movement... His sword a brief glitter in the darkness as it opens up the Wendigo's side with its first strike, and the man long gone right after, out of reach of the beast's long arms. Instead that cutlass cuts right through muscle, bone and vital organs in one final strike as the swashbuckler attacks a second time... Vazkor appearing in a crouch, sword at his side, a few meters beyond the beast as it sways there just before death. And as the Wendigo screams, falling over to bleed out on the forest floor, the dark man's sole gesture is to get up and re-sheath his sword all Samurai-like. Nodding towards Raziel right after.

With the Wendigo dead the sailors are eyeing Raziel and Vazkor with new respect, those things are not easy to kill and these two did it so professionally, soon enough they are cutting down a suitable tree, lookouts on watch arond the woods in a loose ring. The Bosun nods to you both, "How did you know? Fire to revoke its immortality then stab it?"

"The monsters that are in the wood are much like the wood themselves," Raziel answers the Bosun while keeping an eye on their surroundings. "Aligned to earth, which while it is not as weak to fire as ice, is not nearly as immune to it as other things." He looks back at the man before dipping his head a little, "it stands to reason that flame would be a good weapon.. his blade is the best for most monsters though.." A little nod given to Vazkor.

Vazkor glances back at the dead monster for a brief moment... Then gives a shrug as if disinterested in its plight, looking back to the Bosun and Raziel instead as he faintly smiles, answering, "Stab them when they're on fire... It usually works, hm? Don't need to fight a Wendigo to figure that one out." Shrugging again, he then remarks, "Anyway, we should move on... I'm sorry about the men that fled. Can only hope they made it back to the ship. But we better get said ship repaired, now."

The bosun shrugs, "He ran, his choice, one man, I have a ship to worry about" he points to the men cutting down the tree he has chosen. "It will take some time to fell the tree, we should have it down in the next two hours, then we can have it back to the ship by sunset"

Raziel considers before nodding to the man, "two hours? Alright.." He moves away to patrol around the area a little, though does at one point whisper to Vazkor as he passes the man, "a very good job there." He doesn't linger as he continues keeping a look out for anything brave enough to wander into the wendigo's territory.

As the sailors start to work, and Raziel starts to patrol, Vazkor busies himself for a while with the dead Wendigo... Getting down to some quick, gory details, with the gist of it being his ending up with a severed Wendigo head to put on a pike at the edge of the working area- Meant as a warning to any other semi-intelligent Fiend to stay the hell away. As Raziel compliments him on his fighting prowess, though, he gives the man a smile and a quiet thanks, and then starts on his own patrols on the opposite side, keeping an eye out for things.

Thanks to it being a Wendigo range the forest remains peaceful, no more fiends show up and when the tree is felled it is stripped of branches and soon the team of Sailors are pulling it back through the woods toward the ship.... the sun is sliding down toward the horizon but they are nearly there!

Despite nothing else coming to attack, Raziel doesn't let his guard down. This state is heightened as they make their way back to the ship, unsure just where the monster's territory ends and where another will begin. With the sun sliding low he scowls a little and then murmurs, "if it gets too low I will provide light, but that might attract things. Let's hurry so we don't need to resort to that.."

Vazkor remains alert as well, taking point once more, with one hand resting firmly upon his blade's ornate hilt. Briefly watching the son go down, he nods at Raziel some, and answers back, "Aye, keep your magic ready, just in case... But hopefully we'll be at the ship soon. Shouldn't be far now."

Chapter 3

After their adventure in the wooded foothills of the mountain the ship was repaired and with only three days lost they sailed once more through the clear skies! Arriving slightly late at their destination, a small hazard bonus paid to the pair of you from the captain for your assistance you have a few more coins then when you started! The ship is tying up at the docks of the small trading town from which you can reach the Aegyl communities out on the planes.

Raziel makes sure that they don't forget anything in the cabin that they shared before he heads out onto the deck. "Don't forget your travel pass," he murmurs to Vazkor, not that the other man would, but more as a reminder to himself. Everything is checked over and after the hazard pay is handed over the man dips a nod to the captain, "may the winds carry you far above the troubles below." With the aegyl wish of parting given he departs the ship and waits for Vaz to join him before heading towards the edge of the city. "From here we can travel afoot, but it is slow going. Merchants can be found caravanning out onto the plains though or we may be able to find a ride somewhere else."

Vazkor has made sure to gather all his things, slinging his pack to his back, and then took a moment as well to thank the Captain, sharing a ritualized Sailor's Handshake with him. Afterwards however, he finds himself to be glad to be off the ship, and is soon to follow Raziel through the city. The dark skinned man looking around curiously before he nods some, "So what is your home like, dear? I'm sure I'll stand out like a sore thumb."

It takes about three hours but you make arrangements to ride out on one of the supply caravans heading out to the closest Aegyl village. The tip takes about two days but the route is well used and pretty safe, the cost isn't that much either for food and a ride, the old animal kin running the caravan does a lot of trips out across the plains this way for passengers it seems.

"Let's find ourselves a ride first," Raziel responds before the two of them go looking for someone. And when it's found and they're comfortably aboard the caravan he exhales, "you are not the only one to stand out. I think I will more than you. An Aegyl who's lost his wings is something to be pitied.. but that's usually for those who've been crippled. Me.." He shakes his head some. "Anyways. My people are prone to either show no emotion or a great deal of it. You may find them manic. You wouldn't be far wrong." After all the aegyl are still relatively new to having emotions that need to be controlled.

Vazkor settles himself in comfortably for the ride, letting his eyes wander over the enviroment as it starts to slowly roll by, perhaps not having been to this part of the world much before. At Raziel's words though, he nods thoughtfully, and briefly reaches out to squeeze his shoulder, smiling at him, "Your people might not understand... But we'll find a solution anyway. Your elders should be interested to know one of theirs got punished for some supposed slight done by your people... So I think they'll listen, no?" He shrugs a bit then, and just waits to see what's going to happen.

The village of A'Ka'kool is a strange place, clearly designed for people who would rather fly then walk, the houses are on stilts to avoid the floods of the river it is built next to but they are a bit over the top for stilts. The Caravan winds into the central square, people moving out to gather around the caravan, calling out for news, for items they want to buy, a bustling community of winged people.

"I can't say," Raziel responds quietly and looks out over the familiar plains quietly. When they arrive he clams up a little bit before slipping down from the caravan. A wary eye is kept out for anyone that he used to know before he glances towards Vazkor and shoulders his pack, "come, the elders meeting place isn't far from here." Vazkor can't help but look rather curious as they arrive at the village! The man taking in everything that's to be seen, including the people, because it's not every day you get to visit your partner's original home. He refrains from commenting though, and just nods at Raziel as he gathers his things again and then heads off after him, nodding at some Aegyls as he passes.

It would seem Raziel's altered state means people do not recognize him, despite him seeing several who he knows. The elder's meeting hall is up on a set of 18 foot tall stilts but there is ar ope ladder leading up to it. Clambering all the way to the top they are met by two guards who bar their passage, one of them a female with a stern look under her helmets eyes the two travellers. "What business do you have with the Elders? Thgey are in session adn cannot be disturbed for trivial matters of foreigners"

Raziel straightens, this was expected after all, before glancing briefly to Vazkor and then back to the woman. "If we were foreigners then I would agree with you, but I am not and this matter is in no way trivial. I am Raziel ibn Myrna who Weeps for my rathers name has been stricken from my life by the tears she cried. You would know me better cousin if my wings had not been stolen from me. Let me speak with the elders."

Vazkor stands quietly a little bit behind Raziel, not wanting to interfere with the proceedings infront of him, and just silently watching. He studies the two guards for a moment, the woman especially... Before he ever so slightly quirks a brow and glances over at Raziel as he mentions his full name and what appears to be some sort of title! Looking both mildly curious and ponderous for a moment.

The guards exchange long looks then the woman steps inside the hall of wood and thatch. She is gone for a few minutes then holds the dfoor open for an older Aegyl to step outside, the man regards Raziel and frowns, "This is indeed Razil son of Myrna.... enter and you and your companion may speak to us" he steps inside and motions you to follow. The inside of the hall is large and airy and there are six other Aegyl waiting, all of them young looking to be considered elders....

When she steps inside Raziel glances over his shoulder to Vazkor before murmuring quietly, "keep that feather close." He speaks, of course, of the amber feather that was all he was left with. And when the elder steps out and confirms his identity he dips his head a little before following the man into the hall. A gaze is swept overe the council before he steps up to stand before them. "I thank you for speaking with me and I.. apologize for interrupting your other business, but my need is great."

Vazkor glances at Raziel again and nods... Taking a moment to dip a hand below his shirt to pull out that ambered feather which he wears as a necklace, signifying his relationship with the younger man, as per Aegyl tradition. Letting it sit in view now, he steps after Raziel into the building... Quietly following him and stopping to stand slightly back again. Just trying to look as unobtrusive as people, having no genuine idea of whatever protocol may be required and doing the next best thing.

The room is dignified, well appointed and rather nice, what you would expect from well to do merchants maybe. The elderly Aegyl takes a seat and the oldest Aegyl, sat in the centre of the chairs behind the great table regards Vazkor and then inclines her head to him before speaking to RAziel. "Your need is in deed great, you told Matilda your wings had bene stolen, would you care to tell us how and what aid we can offer?"

Raziel's eyes run over the elders before focusing on the oldest of them as she speaks. "I have worked since my departure from the villages as an escort to those who pilgrimage to the Spirit temples. On my last journey I accompanied a summoner beyond the veil to the footsteps of Bahumat's mount. There he sought out the Mist Dragon. But it was me she found first." He pauses for a few moments and seems to look for any sort of recognition or guilt among the elders before he continues. "Seperated from my group I was called to task for the deeds she said were commited by the Aegyl. That I knew not of what she spoke of incited her further. I swore to make ammends for my people. I had the sense it was this or my life.. This was the result." He pauses now and motions towards Vazkor and the amber feather he has been given to wear. "This was all I was allowed to keep. My last feather."

Vazkor returns the polite inclination of the head towards the Elder that greeted him thus, before he looks over at Raziel as the man tells part of the story. Nodding slightly at the mention of certain events himself, to show he was witness to their veracity. Otherwise however, he still doesn't interfere, being just along for the ride.

The elders look at each other then back at Raziel, "The mist dragon... Mist herself I see..." they look uncomfortable but at last one of them speaks, the man who let you in, clearly the youngest. All the others maky a pyramid symbol with their hands, a sign that they will hear nothing said now. A polite fiction.... "In the ages, long ago, when first we took to the skies we were already an old people, before that, before we... became of the flight our ancestors cam from a village lost far in time. It is said... we betrayed something, we know not what but we betrayed it and thus were we cursed to wander and wander we did until we came to the wings."

Raziel's eyes run around the table for a moment as they make the symbol, and for a moment his hand starts to clench and then it's released. From his expression nothing might've just happened. "Then she has been angry long.. if this memory has lived on so long.. since before Lemures rose and the timeless age when we did not grow old and die.. til now." He frowns for a moment and then looks back. "I know of the betrayal, this much I have learned... but I am now forced to wonder if our wings were also a sign of it. How did we gain them? I know that before Feolthanos led us to the skies of Lemures that we had them."

Vazkor looks mildly curious as that pyramid sign is made... But really doesn't do much otherwise but just stand there and listen still, his fuzzy wolf ears lightly perked at the whole conversation, hearing about things he doesn't really have much of a clue about.

The elder who is speaking sighs, "We know not, our history does not go back that far... but... " he frowns along the table, "We must admit to this.... I will not sanction this alone." There is a pause then one by one the elders stop making the sign. One of them speaks, a lady with very long platinum hair speaks. "The source of our wings is lost, even to us,m when we were led into the skies of Lemures a new chapter of our history was started, we have only one thing that may help.... but" She looks at Vazkor and frowns, "One token from our long lost history....."

Raziel looks over at Vaz as well before looking back while reaching out a hand to put on the man's shoulder. "I would trust him with my life. What is more, I would trust him with all of your lives as well.. since the lives of the people are worth more than one. He will not betray you. Tell me, please, and I will share with you what our sin was that steps can be made by the summoners to rectify what we has occured."

Vazkor returns the Elder's gaze steadily... And then looks over at Raziel as the hand is set on his shoulder, and he's given all that trust. Smiling gently in response, he nods firmly and then lets his golden eyes go over each and every elder... Before taking a step forward, and finally speaking up, "If you allow me, Elders of his people... My life and my sword are his, and in turn they are yours. I will do whatever it takes to set right whatever may be wrong, and make Raziel, son of Myrna, whole again, and remove the blemish upon your history."

They look at each other, uneasy, this is clearly not something they are comfortable with. "We must debate this" one of them says and several of them nod but the old man slaps his hand on the table, "What is there to discuss! I call for a vote, one of ours has had his wings stolen! His heart turned against his people, but he is willing to walk out and find what we are all too scared to face! I call vote!" There is silence... then... he stands, two others stand.... the elder at the head of the table sits back and looks at Raziel and Vazkor for a long moment and then she two stands.. four of them.... there is a long moment and then the young woman with platinum hair stands and the leader nods. "So does it pass.... very well Raziel, Son of Myrna, Vazkor Beloved of Myrna's child we will grant unto you the one thing our people still own that relates to the time before the skies."

Raziel inhales deeply and then exhales as the oldest of them all takes a stand for him. He watches as five of them stand before he inclines his head slowly. "We will keep it safe while you entrust it to us." Looking up then the man straightens and then continues, "and I will lay out for you the details regarding the Mist Dragon." Not that he's keeping the knowledge in ransom anymore, but he'd rather not distract them with it just yet.

Vazkor watches them all stand, passing the vote... And he responds by bowing towards them in thanks, without any of the usual theatrics he usually puts into such gestures back home. With that, he steps backwards again, to Raziel's side, returning to quietly listening and watching, waiting for what may happen next. The elder sighs and strokes a hand through her hair, twitching her wings, "You must be tired, please, go back outside, Matilda will show you to guest quarters. At moon rise we shall unlock the gate and give unto you what you seek."

Raziel inclines his head once again before straightening up. "Thank you again." He turns to walk out while catching Vaz's eyes. There's a brief smile given his partner, but he continues past before it lingers too long.

Vazkor briefly inclines his head at the council, before he turns to follow Raziel outside, catching that smile and returning it with his own.

You are led by Matilda across the village and up another ladder to a small house, it is quiet and comfortable removed a short ways from the village. She has food and drink brought, tells you how to summon up bathwater from the plumbing then retreats to let you be alone.

"Little changes here," Raziel comments while walking through the village behind Matilda. He looks at Vazkor then before cliing up the other ladder and slipping into the house before looking around. "Really nothing changes... sorry I had to do most of the talking in there." He pours himself a drink and grabs some of the fish and veggies that are a staple for the villagers before sitting down to write out the details he'd received of the Mist Dragon's enslavement to power the Lunar Whale spirit ship.

Vazkor finds himself a chair to lounge in as he gets into the house, grabbing himself something to eat as well before he smiles and shrugs at Raziel, "I didn't mind. This is your show, and I really didn't have much to say anyway. This is unfamiliar territory... I'm a city kind of guy." He grins some, before letting Raziel get to writing up those events.

There's not much so it's quickly written up and folded to be handed over to the elders the following day. "Good... well if your curious about anything your welcome to ask. We're here so I might as well get it over with." Razuek finishes up the meal and starts to draw some water up to scrub up with so they can get cleaned before going to bed.

Vazkor headtilts some and ponders for a moment, before he smiles at Raziel, "Well, not sure what I'd ask about, really... Already learned some interesting things, and I'm sure more will be revealed. I think I'd just prefer to watch and listen for now. Get a sense of the culture here... It's quite different to know an Aegyl, then it is to see a village full of them." Getting up then, he starts to get ready for bed as well, "You know, I'm not sure I've pondered sleep at such an early hour in quite a while... Fresh air, hm?"

An hour before moonrise you are led out of the village, the Aegyl moving in a torch bearing group just above you as they flap, flying through the air, it seems flying is trhe preferred method for all of them. The council, 8 guards, 3 mages and 1 summoner, they lead as brillaint guiding torch bearing stars through the sky! Showing you toward an ancient mound, one of them does walk with you, the lady with platinum blonde hair, Elder Carlise, "The Lunar Whale? Why... would be force the Lady Mist to power it for us?"

"They put something in the food," Raziel starts off with before looking over, "no seriously it's because we've been getting up early and travelling long distances for a while. Get a nap." He goes about getting scrubbed up before slipping out of the house to sit on the stoop and watch the villagers going about their business for a while. When they are gathered up he slips inside to get Vazkor and the note both before following after their guides. The note is passed over before he shakes his head, "those I questioned couldn't give me an answer why or what we could do to appease them."

Vazkor did indeed take a nap, feeling refreshed again once he's woken up at moon rise. Walking next to Raziel as the procession starts moving towards that mound, he's silent as Raz and the Elder talk among eachother, just using the time instead to look around, once more seeming curious at all that is happening.

The elder sighs, shaking her head as she regards the paper, she then looks up and points to a low hill about half a mile away, lopsided stones jut out of it, "That is what is left of the Temple.... we hauled it here when we moved to these plains"

Raziel looks off towards where she's pointing before he nods in responce, "and what is in the temple? I have heard of adventurers looking for our temples that fell before with the artifacts they carry.. as well as the dangers. What should we expect?"

She smiles and looks at you both "In this one, not much but come" she leads the way uyp the hill, "Vazkor walk with me please, tell me of yourself? You are the mate of one of our sons."

Raziel considers before he nods in responce and begins to climb up the side of the hill.. actually panting just a little bit as he does his best not to slip. These aren't the muscles that he's used to using. In fact he's glad of the question for the moment as it allows him to focus.

Vazkor is distracted from his study of his surroundings by the question, looking over at the Elder before he smiles a bit and moves closer to walk alongside her, watching Raziel go up ahead some, "Well, miss... There might not be much to tell. I'm simply the bastard offspring of a Rozarrian noble, and after my schooling I set out to make a name for myself. This was fourteen years ago... I've fought many pirates in my time, as the Captain of my own vessel. But now I'm simply a citizen of the city of Emberstrand, where I teach skills of the sword."

She nods her head and smiles "Well Lord Vazkor I am glad you came with Raziel, it is... good he has someone to help him in these times" She leads the way yup a set of cracked steps and stops in what must have once been the altar chamber. The aegly fly in a circle over head, two circles in factr... torches glowing

Raziel looks over at Vazkor for a few moments before he looks back to Elder Carlise. For a moment it looks like he's going to echo her words, but decides not to as a glance is given upto the aegyl circling over head. He begins to ascend to the altar then before tilting his head towards her.. clearly waiting for a bit more information.

Vazkor nods some, and answers simply, "It is my pleasure, if not my duty, miss. I'm sure he would do the same for me." Afterwards, he silences himself again, ascending the steps to stand next to Raziel, briefly touching the man's shoulder before he studies the altar before him.

She stands back and gestures "Please, both of you ascend the altar, stand on either side, and then press your hands into the indents before you."

Raziel hesitates for a moment then he nods to the elder. Finishing the last few steps to the top he takes a moment to glance at Vazkor in responce to the light touch before he gives a faint, brief smile. Silently then he presses his hands into the indents and then stiffens up.

Vazkor studies the altar for a moment longer... Before following suit, moving towards it together with Raziel, and stepping up to the opposite ends. He looks down briefly at those indents then... Before taking a breath, and placing both hands into them.

As Vazkor's hands touch the indents the altar clicks... the circlig ring of torches seems to speed up and the rising moon slants through what might have once been a window... the altar shimmers with white light and with a grinding crack it opens up along the middle.... a large, 12 inch disc of metal, engraved on both sides sliding up. On one side, the side facing Raziel a strange symbol, on the other facing Vazkor strange text. "Take it Raziel,"

Raziel blinks and he starts to pull back before stopping himself. Freezing in place while the altar cracks open and the disc rises up. He looks towards the elder then around at Vazkor before reaching out to pick up the artifact, turning it this way and that slowly before murmuring, "this must be truly ancient for you to have brought the temple here as a whole." That would be a major endeavor after all.

Vazkor blinks as well, briefly looking up to watch everything happening around him... Before looking down again as the altar opens up and the disc is revealed. He watches intently then, keeping himself quiet as Raziel lifts out the object... Only briefly attempting to dycypher the text that was facing him.

It is not very heavy, the image is a strange one, two fronds... like fern leaves or rams horns, on the back the text is a very ancient form of the written word of the Aegyl. The Elder smiles, "It is older then anything we have, the text on the front beneath the symbol says "Aries" she smiles and tilts her head, "The text on the reverse says "The Story of 12 Zodiacs" The 11 Zodiacs pondered. How best to catch Virgo's heart? Aries headed east."

Raziel looks to her then back down to the plate as he runs his finger over the horns and then turns it over, reading slowly as it's difficult to understand older forms of one's native text often. He reads what it says alloud then before looking to Vazkor, "To the east then.. perhaps." He ponders and looks up at the elder, "we would need to find where the eastern temples fell when Lemures crashed to the ground I believe... do you concur?"

Vazkor listens to the Elder, then watches Raziel decypher the text for himself as well. He nods then, simply responding in agreement, "The east it seems." Before looking at the Elder for confirmation.

She nods her head and sighs "It is called a Stelazzio, it is said, the hidden history of the Aegyl is bound into it, but none now know from what point East is. After all, this was moved to Lemures with us, so to know were to go east from, you would need to locate its original starting point."

"Stelazzio.." Raziel looks thoughtful for a few moments before turning his eyes to Vazkor with a slight smile, "looks like we will have to continue our journey. I have a couple of ideas.." He looks back to the elder then, "either to research where temples that have something to do with the zodiac dwell. To visit the library temple dedicated to Ramuh.. Each could work."

Vazkor hmms some, and then nods once more towards Raziel, "Whatever you think is best, dear. You're the expert." He gives a brief smile back, before stepping away from the altar, "We will need supplies, in either case. Otherwise we can leave whenever you wish."

The Elder shakes hewr head "We can give you some advice Raziel, Vazkor and supplies for your trip, the Elders have talked we wish to see this wrong to the Lady Mist and the Lunar Whalre rectified so our peopel can hold our heads up tall again." She looks at the coin, "We know of a similar coin to this, rumoured to be held in the Holy City of Bur-Omisace, there are also ancient carvings in this temple that speak of the Lady Fate being key as well or you can try the Great Akashic Library."

Raziel considers before blinking at the elder, a bit surprised obviously. He nods after a few moments though before murmuring, "thank you for this aid... and the information. This will help us a great deal." Bur-Omisace is a long trip, but perhaps they can hit Ramuh's temple on the way down.. and of course there is also Lady Fate to consider as well now.

Vazkor arches his brow a bit, and says to himself, "Bur-Omisace..." Before he just nods firmly, and briefly touches Raziel's shoulder once more, "Well, we've grand adventures ahead of us, hm?" Grinning a bit then, he looks at the Elder as well, "Thank you, miss. We won't disappoint your people."

Chapter 4

The hospitality in the village has been excellent, they have even managed to wrangle a pair of chocobo for you off the caravan trader for you to ride. Just plain yellow ones, nothing special but they are now yours along with the supplies you need as well as the Stelazzio coin safely stowed in Raziel's belongings now.

Raziel eyes one of the birds for a moment then when it noses his cheek he sighs and offers up some greens that he purchased. There's actually a /faint/ smirk about his lips. Things are going well after all. Really well. And as soon as he thinks that the man scowls, because he know it can't last. The previous night he'd sat down with a man and Vazkor to plan out the route they would take and now he sets about making sure everything is packed away and ready before turning to whoever was sent to see them off. "Please give my thanks to everyone.. I will bring back the coin when all this is finished."

Vazkor, having already mounted his Chocobo, idly steers it towards Raziel. The man looking pretty comfortable upon the beast, having learned to ride early on as part of his boyhood schooling. Smiling down at everyone for a moment, he nods in agreement with Raziel, speaking up as well, "Wish us luck... Though we hopefully won't need it."

The Aegyl nods and finishes loading the last of your supplies "We shall prey for you all my friends, take care and safe journey across the steps! The great storms are less at this time of year but Ramuh's temple is not easy to reach."

Raziel reatches the chocobo on the cheek lightly before taking the reins and mounting up. He's not that bad of a rider either actually. Nodding in responce then the man murmurs, "then the sooner started, the sooner done." He inclines his head to the Aegyl and then turns the bird around and nudges her forward into a trot while glancing back at Vazkor over one shoulder with a faint smirk.

Vazkor raises his hand in a final goodbye, before steering his Chocobo around and urging her forward to catch up with Raziel, soon ending up alongside. Grinning over at the Aegyl, he quirks his brow a bit and comments, "I half expected you to hate Chocobo and fall off as soon as you tried to climb on one... I'm impressed, though. Though of course you still have alot to learn." He winks playfully, "Anywhere, how far away was this temple again?"

Raziel looks at Vaz for a moment before he snorts a little bit. "We can't fly everywhere. Of course I can ride.." He mutters something else then smirks briefly while looking off in the direction that they're riding. "With Archades behind us it'll be south east through the tip of the Tchita Uplands and down into the Cerobi Steppes.. We'll be looking at at least a two weeks if we're lucky. Possibly longer if monsters and weather decide to make the trip more of a crawl.Vazkor grins at Raziel again, at least for the first comment and perhaps even for the muttering, but then lets that expression fade in exchange for a more thoughtful one as he's given a time table, nodding some followed by a shrug, "Been a while since I've traveled over land for that long a period, but it should be alright. I'll be glad once we can catch another caravan or airship once we have to go somewhere else, though. Cuts down on rawhide." He grins again.

The journey through the Tchita Uplands takes about a week, they stop each night under the glorious stars of the sky above, camping out with their tent, their birds and supplies. It is peaceful at this time of the year but the odd rain storm blows in but nothing too deadly and nothing that lasts for more then a few hours. On the dawn of the 8th day they are above the Cerobi Steos, the endless plain of grass spread out below them, wind howling through the grasses as dark storm clouds gather.....

Raziel motions ahead while he sighs, "this is to be expected.. thunderstorms a plenty as we get closer to the Library Temple." He considers and then dismounts from the chocobo before checking through the packs for rain cloaks while sending a quick glance towards Vazkor, "We'll stop in there and see what information they might have and are willing to part with concerning the Stelazzio Coin, from there we can continue south down the river and follow the coast to the port.

Vazkor, at the end of the week, has started to grow a pretty impressive amount of stubble! The normally fairly fastidious man not having bothered to shave while travelling. Sitting upon his Chocobo, he looks out over the plains below, and then up at the darkening sky... Nodding some as he glances at Raziel, "Aye... And we could probably use a decent dinner as well... Are there holy men at the temple?" He asks.

The hot meal is had, the night passes and the humid wind up off the steps battles with the cold air up thios high! Come morning the rain is sleeting down, thunder is crashing over head but there is nos ign of lightning yet. The ride down onto the steps goes flawlessly and soon enough you are heading South West over rolling grass, heading deeper onto the plains.

"Of course.. some of these outlying temples almost have small villages surrounding them. At least the more popular ones," Raziel answers the night before. The next day as they make their way over the plains he keeps a eye on the sky while bundled within the rain cloak, a small frown playing over his lips as he calls over the wind and water, "It will get worse.. c'mon.." And he presses forward, knowing they've nearly reached their goal.

Vazkor simply nods from within the hood of his own raincoat, his expression- whether it's good or bad- hidden from view! He simply spurs on his bird, and follows after Raziel, wanting to get out of this blasted weather as soon as possible and find some respite inside someplace with a roof.

Vazkor sees the first crack of lightning across the skies as the rain turns hard, sheeting down bubt the whirling rain and bright flashes mean the man misses what else happens. Raziel however spots it, OH how he spots it! Off to their left lightning shoots down, about a mile away and suddenly cracks out into a sparkling grid..... about 7 feet from the ground... very peculiar. Then another lightning bolt and again it seems to leap from something to some in a grid. Thunder crashing, rain blowing, wind howling, the storm is here..... and something else. Stretching for over a mile and cantering through the storm right toward you! Lightning is hitting the blades on their heads and leaping from mesmerise to mesmerise! You HAVE to turn into them and ride with them and avoid being struck by lightning or be trampled!" to you.

Raziel reins in the bird for a moment and then he lets out a long curse in his native language. Which sounds quite pretty really, unless you know what it means. He looks towards Vazkor then before muttering, "Mesmerize.. a whole heard of them.. we're not going to be able to avoid them. Best bet is to ride with them to avoid being tramped and.. pray we don't get hit by the lightning hitting striking their blade horns."

Vazkor headtilts at the pretty sounding curse, looking over at Raziel... Then he blinks once at the mention of Mesmerize, promptly starting to look around to try and spot them as well, mean while calling back, "That's just great... But if you say we must ride with them, I take it they're not particulary hostile?" Turning south they race along, their chocobo's racing the storm! Rain sleets out of the sky, lashing the ground and the Mesmerize leap past them, racing the planes... lightning cracks down from over head, catching sveral of their blade horns, leaping and arching from one to another..... a shattering lightning bar of white light! So close and deadly.....

"They can be.. but they're herd animals," Raz answers while he turns his chocobo and spurs it into a dead out run. The mage keeps low on the bird while sending wary glances around and attempting to nudge his bird towards the other side of the monster herd while at the same time trying to dodge the deadly lightning all the while praying that Vazkor is able to do the same.

Vazkor has to almost tap into the very limit of his riding skill, ducking low on his bird as well like some jockey, and following after Raziel at breakneck speed. And maybe his famous luck is lending a helping hand as well... As he seems to manage to avoid horrible injury or death for the moment, staying one step infront of those deadly lightning strikes each time.

KROOM! Krack-KOOOOM, Boom-KraKoooooooooooom! Thunder roars, lightning flies, the storm rages and the Mesmerise leap and run, the world is a flashing array of black, then white, then black, then white........

Raziel's eyes are little more than a squint as he does his best to keep from being blinded. His chocobo, bless her, is quick on her feet and he's clinging to her her back while nudging her this way and that. His brows go up as he watches lightning arc through the horns and then suddenly barells her towards the side while ducking as it shoots over his head. "It's getting worse, Try to break out on the side!" He yells through the storm and pounding hooves, not even knowing if Vazkor can hear him.

Vazkor tries his best to avoid those lightening strikes... But perhaps Lady Luck was looking the other way just then. The man cries out in panic and pain as he's zapped by an arc of lighting as he gets caught between two Mesmerize, only his riding skill allowing him to hold onto the equally startled bird as it barrels along, Vazkor himself blinded by rain, pain and the lingering effects of that bright flash... And even his pack and part of his rain cloak were caught on fire! Though luckily for him, it's soon extinguised by the pouring rain, leaving them just smoking and scorched.

Raziel breaks free from the herd and he lets out a woop, glad to be alive. Then his head snaps off towards something in the distance and he squints for a moment, trying to make it out before motioning, "C'mon... need to get up high and orient ourselves.. and they're something standing out up there." And he proceeds to ride towards it... it would've helped if he'd looked back and seen his boyfriend isn't there though.

Vazkor still manages to cling to the bird... Not really steering, but just letting its own instincts drive it, letting the Chocobo decide how to best avoid danger. Biting through the pain, Vazkor's vision slowly starts to clear though, and he raises his head a bit to stare ahead, trying to decude Raziel's location, or even his current fate. Calling out soon after, "RAZIEL!"

Raziel turns on his chocobo rather quickly and he blinks, "wait.. VAZ? ACK!" And off he slips, having turned far too fast and sent his center of gravity shifting. He slides off of the bird and lands in the mud with a squish, but it doesn't keep him down as he starts pushing himself up rather quickly while shouting again, "Vazkor! Get out of the heard.. come towards my voice," while at the same time making a grab for the chocobo's reins.

Vazkor lets out a deep, relieved breath as the herd finally leaves him behind... And he pulls on his bird's reins to slow it down to a trot, watching the Mesmerize thunder on away from him, and taking the time to catch his breath and check where all he's hurt, wincing a few times. Soon however, he steers the bird towards where he figures Raziel went off to, and spurs it on again, perking his ears to hopefully hear Raziel call for him... But only being greeted by the sound of the storm.

Raziel is pulled off his feet as the Chocobo rears, panicked by the storm and the loss of its rider, Raz goes over, the Chocobo bolts as lightning SLAMS over head, a bolt about tree trunk thick slamming into a hilltop..... VAzkor can see Raziel and in the distance atop a large hill the glowing warm lkights of a mighty building.......

Raziel makes a mad scrabble for the chocobo.. any bit of it as it starts to race off and he lets out another curse before pushing himself up while glaring in the direction that the bird ran. Then he blinks and pales before pushing himself up and starting to run after it. "Vazkor wherever you are.. get the damned bird... the coin.. It's got the COIN!"

Vazkor looks relieved as he finally sports Raziel up ahead... Though then blinks as he notices the Aegyl being currently on the ground, and making a mad lunge at his bird as it runs away! With a "HYAAAH!" Vazkor spurs on his own bird as he hears the cry for help, slapping it briefly on the rear and causing it to simply ROCKET forward, its talons churning up the rain soaked grass as it goes. Riding it like an expert Jockey, Vazkor doesn't stop to greet Raziel... Simply charging past the mud-covered man to go after his run away bird instead. His own infact moving at such speed as to easily catch up, ending up running alongside... And with that, Vazkor does something just a bit crazy. Hopping himself up to stand with his feet on the saddle, crouching and aiming for the other Chocobo... And then leaping RIGHT onto it! Smoothly swinging himself into its saddle and pulling hard on its reins to stop it, letting it skid to a halt. His own bird running on for a couple dozen more yards, before it starts to slow down as it finds itself riderless.

The rain slashing out of the sky is washing away the mud on Raziel but he has lost his rain cloak at somepoint and the storm seems to be passing onward, that last mighty bolt of lightning jhaving passed now, plunging the world back into darkness. The large buyilding with its warm glowing lights can be seen in the distance, a good hours ride away now but Vazkor has both birds secure and well he still has his rain cloak and is clearly just "Awesome!"

Raziel lets go a breath when he sees that Vaz has gotten the birds, the deep sigh followed by a grumble as he realizes that while he may not be muddy anymore he /is/ quite wet. The man looks around for the raincoat for a few moments, but gives up and walks towards Vazkor and the birds. "Sorry, I lost track of you. Thought you were right behind me in the heard when I broke free." He nods off towards the well lit building, "lets get there and get dry.. these guys need some nice greens and warm hay."

Vazkor ends up grabbing his own bird by the reins as he rides Raz's Chocobo, bringing both back towards the rain soaked Aegyl. Vazkor's cloak is visibly scorched, and as he sweeps back his hood to smile at Raziel, he clearly shows some evidence of light burns. He dismounts Raziel's bird then, to climb back on his own, looking over his shoulder at the building, "... No worries, dear... And I don't think the Chocobo are the only ones who need pampered. I could use some rest, definately." he rumbles.

Raziel's healing spell goes off flawlessly, it heals the man but well his damaged and melted equipment is no good, his blades are slag and so is anything metal and weapon like that was on his person. Cursed lightning bolts..... still the ride up to the large buiolding is easy enough despite the rain. A large marble building with four huge towers from which those lights are shining forth from, great beacons of light to illuminate the night on the plains. The causeway is wide and well lit and at the top the mighty wooden gates open to a hefty banging, a robed scholar bowing to them and welcoming them into the covered, dry courtyard. "Welcome to the Temple of the Sage"

Raziel accepts the reins from Vazkor and then frowns a little bit before reaching out and placing a hand on Vazkor's cheek. When he does it seems like the raindrops on him have a pearlescent light of their own and they run up him backwards, even mimicing wings as his magics are want to do. Only then does he mount up and start towards the city.. As they approach and slip into the covered courtyard the mage slips from his bird before bowing in return. "Thank you for your welcome.. we've come a long way to stop here and there is a long road still ahead of us. I would like to inquire about something with the priest scholars who dwell here, but first.." He looks at Vazkor and then back at the scholar, "could we beg of you a bed and stabling for our chocobo for the night?"

Vazkor blinks, then smiles at Raziel as he's healed... Closing his eyes for a moment as that magic courses through him and takes his wounds away. Afterwards, he speaks up, "Thank you, dear..." Before steering his Chocobo around to approach that building. Not thinking of checking his gear or weapons yet, simply focused for now on getting to somewhere warm, with food.

The priest pushes back her hood, cascades of long blonde hair tumbling down her shoulders, she adjusts her glittering, sequin covered top hat, "Why of course darlings! You are just in time, the master is having... one of his affairs!"

(Just Kidding!)

The priest pushes back her hood and nods "Of course travellers, come" servants flock around the two, taking away their chocibo's, unloading their gear. You are shown up through the halls of the mighty library to guest quarters in one of the towers. Baths are drawn, food is delivered and you are informed the Mortal Sage or one of the Librarians will see you in the morning.

Raziel thanks them, but makes sure to grab the pack with the coin in it. Not that he thinks anyone would steal from him, but he takes the trust put in him seriously.. that and it's a the only lead he truly has. He follows them through the halls and into the room. The baths and food are welcomed as well as the news. "Thank you for your hospitality and care." He looks towards Vazkor then before tilting his head some, "sorry about losing you in the herd."

Vazkor follows silently... Just wanting to get to a warm room. And once he gets there, he's quick to start to undress to jump in a bath... Only to pause as he finds his beloved weapons, mastercrafted from the finest damast steel, and having served him during countless adventures in the past decade... Have been ruined by the lightning. And he just stares at them, blankly, not even responding to Raziel.

Outside the storm rages, the wind howls, lightning dances in the clouds as the storm passes away into the far distance, only rain remaining, no act of the spirits this time, just nature.

Raziel tilts his head towards the storm and then to Vaz when he doesn't answer. The mage steps over to look over his shoulder and he frowns gently before wrapping his arms around the man and giving a squeeze, "I'll replace them.. I owe you after this.." Realizing how lame that sounds he then mutterds quieter, "sorry love."

Vazkor finally ends up frowning down at his blades... Looking severely unhappy, as if the weapons weren't just that, but something worth far more to him... As Raziel comes up and hugs him though, he shakes his head some, taking a breath followed by a bit of a sad smile, "... They were one of a kind, but no worries... Thank you, though." He briefly dips in to smooch Raziel then, before getting up, and retrieving his previously discarded raincloak... Starting to roll the ruined swords up in them, obviously not planning to just throw them away just yet.

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.

                             When Aries comes to the Sage's hall,
                             Stars above begin their siren call,
 
                               Two children of Terra have come,
                         A quest for lost flight the song thy thrum
 
                            When Winged Darkness throws its ball,
                           Laid low are the eyes lf all that stall,
 
                              The heavens quake, the quest begun,
                            Now you must catch her before its done,
 
                              Restore the Coins, Find the answer,
                           Don't forget to bring home her daughter.

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"

Chapter 6

From that point you are taken away from the observatory tower, supplies are preapred for you, your clothing and belongings packed from your rooms and delivered to were you have been taken. Strangely enough you find yourself atop one of the other towers of the temple library not down in the stables, the wind and rain blasting across the tower top outside the small shelter you have to stay in.

Raziel allows himself to be lead to the other spire without much of a word, as his mind is elsewhere.. chasing after the supposed trail of the thief. Looking up from his thoughts when they come to a stop the man looks around for a moment before tilting his head towards the one that led them before glancing at Vazkor with a lifted brow. "He did say they would give us an edge.. you don't suppose.."

Vazkor keeps a hand resting upon the hilt of one of his new weapons after resheathing them and follows after the guide... The man looking curious as they're brought up a tower instead of where he would expects Chocobo's to be. Peering out at the ran from the little shelter, he glances at Raziel as he speaks, "Flying Chocobo? Never heard of such a thing."

A voice speaks from behind Vazkor "Actuall I changed my mind" It is the mortal sage, he walks onto the tower and one of his assistance unrolls a large rug. it curls at one end and then another, rippling and shimmering brilliantly. "Sit upon this and set your packs down. It shall take you straight to Baguba Port."

Raziel looks over Vazkor's shoulder and then down at the rug. He eyes it for a moment before murmuring, "very interesting.. I've not seen something like this before." The man steps out onto the rug slowly before setting the packs down and then taking a seat towards the center.

Vazkor turns around as the sage speaks up... And his eyes instantly fall upon that carpet as it's rolled out. It takes him a moment to realize what he's seeing, but soon, he grins rather widely, "I had someone try to sell me one of these once in Zara-Qum, but I didn't believe him it was real... Does it really fly?" He asks, as he picks up his pack and slowly walks onto and sits down on the rug.

The MOrtal Sage grins, his eyes twinkling, "His one probably didn't this one" he taps his staff and it lifts up with a rippling swish, your purchase on it quite secure. "This one easily flies... now hold on my young friends. This will fly you straight to Baguba Port! If you see her as you fly down attack and win back the Stelazzio coin and remember what I have taught you and what you have learnt! You must claim the next coin."

Raziel takes a breath and then he tests sitting up on his knees a little.. A glance is given the Sage and he considers before nodding and drawing out the scroll he was given before considering, "if we find her.." The man nods over to Vazkor before looking up at the elder. "I thank you for your assistance.. if all is ready then we best be going.. Ah... one question though. How do you control the carpet? Just in case.."

Vazkor grins some more as he shifts around a bit on the carpet, pushing down some upon the fabric with his hands as if to test it. He personally looks rather excited at the prospect of flying around on this thing, though he also takes a moment to nod at the sage, "We'll get her, sir... Thank you." He bows "Just ask it!" it leaps up into the air! The wind rushes around you both as you race through the air.... you can feel it flowing around you, blowing clothes and hair and yet it is not cold... The world drops away below you, the temple falling behind as the carpet launches itself through the air...... zipping forward across the rippling grass land below...... the hunt is on!

Raziel considers and then nods before shifting down on the carpet as it zips off. The man looks around for a few moments as they fly and at some point closes his eyes while enjoying the familiar feeling of rushing wind. Reopening his eyes though he begins to peer ahead and around, attempting to keep a lookout. "This /will/ speed things."

Vazkor lets out a woop as the thing takes off into the air, still grinning wide as his shaggy black hair whips around his face, obviously enjoying the rush of speeding off through the air like this. At some point he even leans across to peer over the edge for a few moments, watching the landscare blur by below, before turning towards Raziel, "We need to get us one of these... It'll look nice in the living room."

The carpet ripples at Vazkor's words and bumps him up and drops into a steep dive for a moment before righting itself and flying on. It seems it can hear what they say and didn't approve of that commment. As they race through the day the sun beams down but doesn't scorch, the wind races around them and down below herds of Mesmerise and other four legged fiends race across the plains but after about six hours something else comes into sight. A group of wagons pulled up into a ring, a fire burning in the centre... a caravan!

Raziel yerks and he lowers himself towards the carpet, looking at the carpet and then at Vazkor as he's caught. "I'd suggest not saying something like that again.." He smirks though looks back down again and reaches down to pet the carpet's fibers, "though it is something admireable." The open praise a rare thing for the man. As the caravan comes into sight he ponders a little before motioning, "think we should check it out? It's possible she's hiding with them since travelling alone is dangerous."

Vazkor blinks as the thing dips down! And Vazkor's reflex is to hold on tight for a few moments, before relaxing again and giving a chuckle... He pats the carpet then, saying to it carefully, "Don't worry, dear... You belong in the open sky, for sure." Later on, as he catches sight of the caravan, he turns towards Raziel and thinks before nodding, "Let's check it... Though I'm not sure we should let them see us approach on a flying carpet."

The carpet twitches under you all as vazkor speaks and drops! It spins! It's width seems to grow... rounding out until it is circular! It glows... white and purple and blue light shimmering in a halo all around you as it descends toward the caravan! People stop and point and stare and soon enough you can hear excited voices shouting out and calling to people to come and see!

Raziel shifts and looks around for a moment before he blinks at the people. Glancing down then at Vazkor he smirks a little bit, "do me a favor.. see if you can't put on a bit of a show for them. They'll think us some sort of entertainers with a ride such as the carpet." He looks back towards the people and starts looking through the crowd and beyond. Looking beyond the excitement for anyone that seems not to be. Particularily a winged person.

Vazkor blinks as the carpet decides to descend towards the caravan all flashily like that! And he shakes his head for a moment at the thing's antics. At Raziel's words however, he nods... And boldly pushes himself upright! Standing on the carpet and looking over the edge at the people down below. He starts waving his arm then, grinning wide and calling out in a rich baritone, "Hail, people! We come in peace!"

One of them calls out "We hope so! Join us travellers, our fire is open to all who come in peace." The carpet alights and with a ripple settles to the ground with a brilliant flare of light as if it should have trumpets heralding its arrival! It sure has a personality, the children ooh and so do some of the younge adults. An elderly woman with brilliant necklaces bows to the two "Welcome to uor caravan noble travellers of the sage"

Raziel looks up at Vazkor and makes a quiet noise in the back of his throat. He smirks a little bit for a brief moment before rising as the carpet flares out for the children. He steps from it then before bowing back to the elderly woman, taking her as their elder, "ah.. I suppose our friend here must be familiar to you, elder." He glances at the carpet then back to her before scanning the faces of the people quickly.

Vazkor braces himself a moment as the carpet lands, but then smoothly steps off after Raziel to approach the people... He smiles and waves at the children, greeting them with a, "Hello, kids! Isn't she beautiful?" Before looking over at the elderly woman as well, and bowing towards her, "Miss." His own eyes in the meantime roaming around as well.

The lady inclines her head "You ride upon one of the Sage's carpets, we who travel the steppes recognize them though you are not the usual scholars they carry. Be welcome to our fire" she motions Raziel and Vazkor to the fire side, "Do you know the song?" As they move over RAziel doesn't see much beyond smiling, interested faces but Vazkor wuld recognize one of the wagons has no chocobo and a rather bedraggled looking bird tied to another wagon being tended by a couple of men.

"Thank you for the welcome.. though I cannot say I know of it.." He frowns faintly and glances towards Vaz then back once again. "We're actually in search of someone. We had hope that you might be able to help us perhaps." Raziel follows the woman towards the fire after a quick glance at the carpet.

Vazkor glances over the strange wagon... Before smiling over at the elder, "I'm afraid I don't know the song, miss, but I'm willing to learn." He answers cheerily, before following both her and Raziel. As he moves though, he draws Raziel's attention for a moment, and gives a short nod towards the wagon.

She nods her head "Then we continue to search, it is not a song we know but one we seek ourselves." She glances toward the wagon as she sees Vazkor nod at it then looks back at them. "You chase the thief?"

Raziel looks towards the wagon when Vazkor directs his attention and then looks quickly back to the elder once more, his brows lifting a touch before he nods in responce. "You ran acrossed her too then? She's stolen a treasure of my people... an artifact of great import."

Vazkor hmms as he looks back at the elder, and then nods some, "We do... As my companion says, she has something we need back. Can you tell us anything about her, miss?" She sighs "She rode in here last night, she was gentle, polite, and then she stole something from us, stole a team of chocobo and after incapacitating poor Miguel she rode off into the night heading south and east toward the border"

Raziel's lips draw down into a frown before he looks off in the direction she was reported to have gone. "I'm sorry about your man, hopefully he will recover expediantly.. As for the item she stole. Tell us of it and when we find her we will do our best to obtain it for your people."

Vazkor blinks a moment, before nodding. That explains the strange wagon. Listening to Raziel's offer then, he nods again, adding, "We will gladly retrieve what she stole from you, miss, alongside what she took from us..."

The elder frowns then makes a motion, her people back away from the fire, leaving you alone with her. She looks at you both then sighs and sits down, "He will recover, but she stole from us an item of ancient majesty. Something we had been charged to care and carry for long years now. The Taurus as the sage sent you I shall trust that he has the faith in you to be able to stop this thief?"

Raziel's brows lift and he whispers, "Taurus... And Aries from us." He frowns and then nods to her, "we will get the coin back for your people.. but we will not want to linger long with you. While the trail is still warm we will need to move. Is there anything else you can help us with regarding this?"

Vazkor arches his brow some and glances at Raziel, "It seems she's collecting... For who, I wonder?" He remarks, before looking back at the elder and nodding, "We two are tenacious folk, miss. We'll catch up with her sooner or later."

She nods and stands up, "I canot tell you much, but I can tell you who guards Gemini and Cancer, in Baguba Port, somewere in the great Cathedral of Steam, the home of Mog himself you will find a priest engineer. Jasper is his name, he holds in charge and trust two of the great Stelazzio Coins you must go. You must find him before she does" Your carpet drifts over,a bunch of laughing xchildren sat on the back of it cheering happily!"

Raziel looks down then up before he nods to the woman quietly. He glances towards the carpet then back once again, "Jasper in the Cathedral of Steam.. Thank you for the knowledge and the trust you are putting in us." He looks back up then and waves his hand, "Ah... carpet? We should be going.." Vazkor bows some towards the elder, "Indeed, thank you... We will do anything to stop her, rest assured." And with that, he turns back towards the carpet, chuckling some at the children upon it before he approaches to climb on himself.

The Carpet lowers down and the Elder shepherds the children off. She bows her head, "It is sad that you leave our side without a farewell feast. We thank you and wish you every moment of success! Fly true heroes, fly fast and stop the thief"

Raziel bows his head, "we have not yet done anything deserving of it." He looks at the children for a moment and then steps onto the carpet and kneels down so he doesn't lose his balance when it takes off, "alright carpet.. we need to get to the Cathedral of Steam in Baguda Port.. and we must get there fast."

"Oh No don't say...." the elder starts to say but her words are lost as without any warning the Carpet LEAPS forward! The world shoots past and there is a faint rippling BOOM in your wake as the plains lurch by beneath you! The carpet streamlining, the slipstream intense and deadly.......

Vazkor manages to settle down properly on the carpet just in time! Clinging on as it speeds off like that with all his might! However, he soon notices Raziel starting to slip off... And his first instinct is to reach out and grab for the Aegyl! Sadly though, this seems to have the effect of the swashbuckler losing his hold on the damn carpet himself... And with a short yell, the man goes flying off!

The carpet ripples and tosses Raziel off into the air and then spins backwards..... as the pair of men plummet it zips down beneath them. Catching first Vazkor and then Raziel, the two of you landing with heavy thumps on the thick fabric! It shivers and the edges raises up like gunwhales as it slows down zipping over the grass land as the sun slips toward the horizon. There is a definate air of "Silly Humans" radiating from the carpet as if it is all their fault.

Raziel lets out a startled yelp and his eyes widen a bit a bit as he tries to hold on. The man struggles to maintain his hold.. desperately missing his wings just about now.. before he too slips free. The man spreads out his body to try and create more wind resistance. As the carpet zooms in under them and catches vazkor he lets out a breath while bracing himself... and then he too is caught and he feels the breath rush out of him before he gasps. "Right... a little /too/ fast there..."

Vazkor lands onto the carpet with that heavy thud! And he instantly flattens himself against it, looking wide eyed and out of breath from the shock of the fall, and the yelling he did while he plummeted through the air! Staring at Raziel some then, he swallows, before slowly pushing himself up a bit again, "... Let's not do that anymore."

The carpet settles into a steady flow, sliding through the air as the sun dips toward the horizon! Sinking down out of sight as the sky starts to illuminate with glittering pinpricks of light!

Raziel rests his head on the carpet quietly and he exhales before nodding to Vazkor's request, "deal.." He sits up then and looks around before leaning up against Vazkor as they travel at a smoother pace.

Vazkor rests a hand on Raziel's shoulder as he leans against him, just as much for his own sake, wanting to feel a bit more grounded after that fall. In the meantime he studies the enviroment as it rolls by, as well as watching the stars as they reveal themselves, "We always get ourselves into something, don't we?" He comments.

The carpet ripples under them, the weave seperating, blakets forming to snug over them both to keep off the chill as they glide through the deep rich night, heading toward Baguba and the coast..... flying onward!

Chapter 7

A long night and then part of the morning since our intrepid adventures left the travelling caravan of nomads, slowly they are approaching Baguba Port. For the past six hours they have been flying high over a patchwork of neat farmlands, rolling hills forest and the odd lake and river. Now the sea is spread out before them and a harbour can be seen jutting out of a large patch of rolling greenery bisected by roads. There are not many buildings, most of the city appears to be green mounds, gardens, woodland and meandering paths. There is a large aerodrome attached to the harbour and the odd mighty building rises up out of the ground like the Cathedral at the heart of the city, or the odd massive chimney rearing into the sky above!

Raziel rubs his eyes before looking out over the ... city? Below them. A slight frown playing over his lips before he nudges Vazkor, "looks like we're just about here." He looks down at the carpet then and tilts his head a little bit before considering, "if you know where it is, Carpet, take us to the Cathedral of Steam."

Vazkor managed to settle down and catnap for a bit... Until he's nudged by Raziel. Cracking open his eyes, he yawns some before starting to sit up, rubbing at one eye as he too starts looking across the city as they approach then. Nodding with a quiet hmm, he remarks, "Looks the same as always." Apparently having been here before, perhaps during his old airship days. And as the carpet is given directions, he quietly braces himself some.

The carpet obeys happily, sinking down toward the ground, as you approach you can see there are a whole ton of moogles down there! Walking along the road, riding in carts pulled by chocobo or chugging along under their own power. The buildings you can see are all airy spires or domes of crystal, glass and steel. Everything blends harmoniously with the parkland nature and you can see a lot of the domes have doors set into them. Most of the city is underground it seems leaving the surface free for beauty! The carpet travels down to a great square of mighty grey flagstones in the centre from which rises a massive structure of black steel, rose windows filled with stained gass, peaked gabled roofs and chimneys. Clockworks can be seen within the walls and steam, seems to linger around the whole structure.... the home of Mog on Terra and your carpet is angled at the front doors. Raziel taps the carpet lightly then when they're right before the doors and before the carpet just flies inside, "thank you.. we can walk and you can follow yes?" There's a tilt of the head while the man gathers his things and waits for a moment before standing and stepping off, only when he can do so without falling of course. Glancing at Vazkor then the mage lifts a brow and consider before nodding, "I sometimes forget you have travelled as extensively as I. Come then." And with that he turns to enter the cathedral.

Vazkor reaches down to pat the carpet, saying towards it, "Thank you, dear." Before he slides himself off it, seemingly glad to get on his feet again and taking a moment to stretch out his lean body, some quiet pops to be heard. Soon settling down again however, he looks up at the building before him... Before nodding and starting to follow after Raziel, "Aye, though I never really stopped to see the sights, around him."

The carpet spins around you both three times and then zips off and up into the rafters were it flits about above your head and then dive bombs a group of children and starts entertaining them. As you have made such an entrance people are looking at you, moogle and non-mog alike, a short grey furred moogle in over-alls walks over and bows "Good day travellers, what brings two of the Mortal Sage's scholars to the home of Mog today?"

Raziel looks up for a moment then down at the carpet playing with the children before he shakes his head a little bit. After a glance around at all the eyes that are set upon them the mage turns his own on the one who approaches, "we have been given a task and have been sent to speak with priest Jasper as hastily as is possible as time is a factor."

Vazkor smirks at the carpet's antics... Then briefly glances around at all the people looking them as well. A confident wave is giving to some of them, before he quietly puts on a slightly more serious air as the one Moogle approaches. Not bothering to correct him on the scholar thing, he just nods some, and motions over at Raziel as he explains.

The moogle blinks "Jasper? As in old Gardener Jasper? Well sure come with me I'll take you to his garden," he motions you to follow and starts to walk along, scruffling a paw through his unruly hair, his pom bouncing back and forth "what do you need to see the gardener for?"

Raziel doesn't quiet sigh when the moogle turns to lead them but he does send Vazkor a quick look. Looking back at the priest while considering his answer. In the end he answers mostly truthfully, "there is a rare specimen that he cares for that we've been told to come and speak to him about."

Vazkor arches his brow at the whole gardener thing... And he returns Raziel's look, giving the other man a brief shrug in response, as if to say he isn't sure either. So he just follows after the other two, curious now of what this will all be about. It takes a while to walk the length of the cathedral and down a set of stairs and then out into a large cavern! It is illuminated with daylight showhow and there are massive flowering bushes on either side of the path. The air is heavy with the scent of blossoms and your guide weaves around the place, following the paths and eventally stops at a tiny wooden hut. "Here we go, Jasper I jhave some guests from the Library here." There is no answer and he frowns and knocks ont he door "Jasper?"

Raziel looks around the 'garden' and his brows rise upwards. The man even goes so far as to inhale the scent though he doesn't allow himself a smile or any further signs of appreciation. Following after the moogle then he pauses before the hut before tilting his head a little as he listens for movement within. Glancing at their guide then he explains in a hushed voice, "there are others after this specimen. It's very rare... forgive me, but just incase he's in danger.." And he tries to door then.

Vazkor seems to openly enjoy the sights and smells himself, smiling a bit as he studies some of the flowers and plants that they pass, even reaching out every so often to gently touch one of them. As they approach the hut however, he soon starts to focus on that... Stopping as the Moogle starts calling for the gardener within, and gets no response. The swashbuckler frowns then... And apparently has the same idea as Raziel, soon muttering, "Careful, dear." even as he puts a hand upon one of his swords.

"Marky...." a voice calls out from inside, "Duck! Code Purple!" The moogle blinks and throws himself to one side as the door disingtergrates as something very Loud explodes inside and shrapnel and grapeshot blasts out as the bulnderbuss wielding moogle inside opens fire!

Raziel's hand is on the handle and then his eyes widen for a moment before he dives to the side while letting out a yell. He covers his head with his hands for a moment before letting out a growl and starting to push himself up before looking over his shoulder towards where Vaz was, "Vazkor?!"

Apparently wasn't really expecting anything like that... And subsequently, he was slow to react. The door getting blown apart right infront of him before he can even do anything... And the swashbuckler ending up getting blown backwards, right off his feet, and landing a few yards away as some of that shot hits him right on! Leaving him sprawled out, just laying there, even as a crimson stain slowly spreads around his stomach area.

Inside the hut a black furred moogle spins a barrel, his blunderbuss clicking another loaded chamber into place! Seriously it is belching steam and humming, who really goes to the hassel of installing a loader on a blunderbuss! He clicks it into place and takes aim again. Marky is staring out from under the bush he rolled under, "Father what the hell....." He cuts off as he speaks again, "They are thieves Marky, I got warning they were coming, they ain't real agents of the Scholar, they are thieves here for the treasures of mog! Send for the guard!" Emerging from the shadows behind the moogle is a tall, ebony skinned, black winged Aegyl, she has a slender silver gun in one hand and a dark bladed throwing knife in the other. "See it isjust as I said Father Jasper, we must stop them before they can use their foul and evil magics on us!" She takes aim at Vazkor and fires again as Raziel is out of sight t othe side.

"Of all the... we are /not/ the thieves that raven bit-VAZ!" He hears the shot fire and begins to summon up his own powers while he asks in a deep growl and at the same time reaches into his shirt for the scroll to ground her ass, "and what /proof/ does she have of who /she/ is? We come with proof of our identity in the form of our conveyance." He peeks around into the little house to focus his eyes on the aegyl woman.

Vazkor groans loudly and reaches for his stomach... Soon raising his fingers up to his eyes and noting the blood upon them, which explains the searing, burning pain in his stomach... Hearing all the commotion around him then, he tilts his head up some to look around... Only to find himself looking at some Aegyl woman pointing a gun at him! His reaction is near instantaneous then, unlike before, and despite his injuries... His brain really just reacting in sheer survival instinct, and sending the lighting fast signal to his body to get the hell out of the way of where that bullet is likely to strike. The swashbuckler spinning his body around on the floor, even as a spray of dirt puffs up where he had just been. After which he tries to get up fully and defend himself.

Marky screams and charges back the way you came, wings flittering, pom glowing, "GUARDS! Guards! Attack attack!" The moogle shifts his blunderbus aiming it at Raziel as he peeks into the little shed, "She comes with papers signed and sealed by the Mortal Sage!" He sounds scared, his eyes are wide and he fires at Raziel, the blunderbus giving forth a mighty coughing BOOM! The Raven darts toward, hurling one of her daggers at Vazkor. "We must not let them speak or cast spells, remember how they assaulted the tmple with foul scrolls!"

Raziel dodges out of the way and presses his back to the building while he closes his eyes for a brief moment. Snapping his attention to the pair once more he snarls, "forged then.. we come with the Mortal Sage's own carpet given to us when she stole Aries from me. And Taurus as well. Will you let her steal your two as well." He thinks quickly and then looks in the doorway, "have we attacked you once? Don't you think if we were thieves we would've sneaked in /not/ knocked on your damned door? Think man! Did she just show up or did she ask a priest to escort her? Why is she making you fire on us when we haven't lifted a hand to harm you? She doesn't know where the coins are. That's why. Don't believe us, fine, but don't tell her where they are. Don't trust that black winged bitch."

Vazkor is apparently _pissed_, as despite his obvious injuries, the man shows almost no sign of them as he hops to his feet to face the threat! Only a mild grimace twitching across his tense features for a moment as any sort of indication of pain. And as the female Aegyl throws the knife at him... He snaps his body instantly to the side to avoid it, while both his blades get unsheathed in a flash at the same time with a crackling of lightning, the throwing knife getting knocked further out of curse by a smooth parry of one of them... Before right after, he's instantly upon the thief, the man snarling as he brings one sword down towards her gun hand, while the other slashes towards her neck, "RAZIEL! I THINK HE'S NOT HIMSELF! SHE DID SOMETHING TO HIM!" He yells, his voice booming.

The Raven yelps and staggers back as Vazkor attacks, she parries one sword with her gun whilst the other blade skims across her shoulder, slicing into her flesh. Her wings crack and buffet Razel as she drops a hand tro her waist, slides out a dagger and goes to ram ther short blade up under Vazkor's sternum. "Father help me!" The Moogle doesn't respond to Raziel just screaming at the top of his lungs about thieves whislt in the distance more voices can be heard, kupoed orders, footsteps, people are racing through the gardens, they will be here in moments.

Raziel snarls and rages for a moment as he growls at the thief, "I will pluck every feather from your hide for this.." He finally unleashes the spell he's been preparing though. A pair of fire wings appearing for an instant before the energy seeps around him the shoots straight at the aegyl, ignoring the confounded priest for the moment as he comes into full view to cast at his target.

Vazkor smoothly backsteps from the attempted dagger to the heart, before he's hit by the buffeting from those powerful wings, which soon drive him back even further, though he somehow manages to keep his footing despite it and his continued injuries, growling at her. And lucky for him, his backtracking also gives Raziel the room to cast that spell!

Raziel's spell is perfect! Sheets of flame leap towards her and the Raven screams and draws back in horror! Something else slams into Raziel's spell however is engulfed in a bubble of water! A moogle priestess standing on a rock chanting, staff above her head. More moogles rush into the small clearing with the hut in it. Guns raised, weapons draw, they swing in seperating and surruonding everyone. "Arms up! Weapons on the floor everyone!" Someone shouts with a kupo-po, Father Jasper pauses and drops his gun then shrieks "They are in the Eucalyptus house! Save them!" He tries to charge through the mogs around him but they grab him and the Raven smiles at you both and tosses two black spheres onto the ground, "Perfect..." she says as smoke envelopes the garden......

Raziel grits his teeth, but raises his hands up, though he does still grip the paper. When the smoke hits the ground the man lets out a curse and yells at the priest, "Shut /up/." He starts to lower the hand with the scroll before crumpling it and shoving it away as he turns back to Jasper, "How could an /idiot/ like you guard such a treasure." He however holds still though while trying to wave the smoke away. Vazkor is too filled with rage, pain and adrenaline to just stand down like that... And really, he barely gives the warriors surrounding them a second glance. His entire focus instead upon the Aegyl bitch, his teeth bared and both swords pointed at her... And even as she attempts that Ninja-Vanish, his focus is probably the thing that allows him to somewhat see through it and continue to go after her! The man snarling as he leaps through the smoke, and slashes both his lightning infused blades at the source of that buffeting, as if intent on cutting those wings right off her back.

Weapons are aimed at Raziel and as the smoke clears several moogles take off after Vazkor and the raven. The priestess who countered Raziel's spell is knelt by Jasper casting spells on him. She gives the wingless Aegyl such a glare, "Jasper has been ensnared in several layers of very deep curses, no one could resist these sorts of spells." Suddenly there is a high pitched scream from the far side of the smog, lightning crackles and flares and then there is silence.... on the far side of the hedge the Aegyl was flying over Vazkor is swiftly surrounded by moogles aiming weapons at him and lying on the floor is the still body of the black winged aegyl....

Raziel remains still but glares right back, "and why was he not warded against such things. Glare at me all you like, but we are /not/ the bad guys here." He looks up at the scream and turns immediately towards it while straightening and then muttering, "sounds like he got her... I pray she has what she stole on her..."

Vazkor stands there, breathing hard, staring down at the still body of the thief as she lays at his feet... His eyes roaming over whatever injuries he caused. But as the Moogle guards surround him, he slowly looks up at them... An almost crazy gleam in his eyes for a moment, before he just shakes his head, and carefully takes a few steps back, holding out both his weapons before spinning them around and jabbing them into the ground, showing he means no further harm... After which he quite suddenly sways a bit, grunting and grabbing at his stomach... And falling right back onto his ass.

The moogle growls softly at Raziel, "Don't you dare get high and mighty with me mr. Until we know who you are your as suspect as she is magic carpet or no magic carpet. As for wards, it is impossible to ward against things written in Gesen ink" she points at the scroll lying on Jasper's table, the seals of the Great library dangling from it. "No one can ward against reading that and only the great sage is meant to have access to such potent magical inks." She is about to say something else when the smoke dissapates and a voice calls out quietly, "Enough Gemma, enough all of you, I will not have fighting in my home.." A moogle walks through the bushes, he is twice as tall as any of the others, dressed in flowing silk and chainmail with a HUGE buster sword on his back. The moogles gasp and bow low to him, at his side is a smaller, normal sized moogle carrying the staff of a summoner but dressed like an engineer in over-alls with a tool belt arond his waist. Mog stands there and looks at everyone for a moment. "Someone heal the human and good Master Aegyl you may search the Raven for what ever it is she stole from you, Gemma see to Jasper and once everyone is calm and she is locked up.... we shall talk. Everyone else is dismissed." Most of the guards bow and flutter off quickly into the garden and out of sight as a healer hurries ovber to Vazkor though a few priests to linger around to help the moogle priestess heal Jasper.

Raziel does not respond to the moogle, his attention is on the distant Vazkor. Only when the weapons are lowered does he look towards Mog and he straightens for a moment. The mage bows to the spirit, but he doesn't say anything just yet. The man moves first to Vazkor and he checks him before exhaling a breath and muttering in a quieter voice, "sorry," before he straightens and moves to the body of the female Aegyl and he starts searching her carefully for the coins, as if waiting for her to make a move, though part of him already fears that he'll not find anything anyways.

Vazkor doesn't notice the priests hovering about him, or the appearance of Mog himself, or even Raziel's concern and apology... Having pretty much paused out as soon as he hit the floor, whatever rage-fueled energy that possessed him earlier having left just as quick, leaving just a poor swashbuckler with a bleeding gut for the moment.

It takes some time to heal everyone and Mog seats himself on a rock, inclined to just wait for his children to set things in order. Raziel however has some luckj, Aries and Taurus... both of them are upon her person and as he takes hold of each coin they warm to his touch and lift out of his hand, floating gently in the air beside him. Guards then drag the Raven away as the priests finish healing Vazkor and Jasper up. "Raziel whilst my priest and your man recover, come, let us talk." Mog points to the rock opposite him.

Raziel lets out a breath and he does blink for a moment as they rise up only to float beside him. Each are examined for a moment before he looks over his shoulder to the priests taking the girl away. "Make sure she can't escape. Any tools and she'll get out.. I'd pluck her feathers too as she might try to pick a lock with the quill." Also it'd give him a good amount of satisfication. Looking back towards Mog then he nods and walks over, a quick glance to assure Vaz is alright before he joins the spirit. "I am sorry this danger has come to your temple.."

Vazkor's passed out-ness doesn't last too long, luckily, as the priests work on closing up those wounds of his (and hopefully somehow removing the grapeshot that caused them) and soon he starts stirring some... Letting out grunts as he cracks open his eyes and looks around himself with a groggy expression, before starting to slowly sit up, peering at the Moogles around him, "... Where's the thief, she'd better not have gotten away." He rumbles then.

Mog smiles softly, his eyes sparkling "There is danger where ever the Stalazzio linger." he stands up and pats RAziel's shoulder, making him stay in his seat as he goes to loom over Vazkor. "She is now a prisoner, the magistrates of Baguba Port will take care of her though they will not pluck her wings. That is unneccessary cruelty." He shoots Raziel a look then glances down at Vazkor and offers him a paw, "You are a very strong human, able to continue to fighting with such wounds I am impressed." Raziel spreads his hands, "the ways of my people can be quite.. strict." He quiets up though and looks over towards Vazkor while remaining where he is and then reaches up to rub his fingers acrossed his forehead lightly before he looks towards the coins floating near him for a few moments.

Vazkor likely has no idea that the large Moogle before him is actually Mog himself... And as such, he shows no awe or surprise or anything as he simply reaches up to grab the offered hand for a moment and slowly gets himself back up on his feet. Taking a moment to touch the blood stained leather across his stomach, before he shrugs a bit, "Thank you, sir... I was fighting for a good cause." Is all he offers, before looking over at Raziel, rumbling, "Excuse me." and heading towards the other man.

Taurus spins slowly in mid air, revealing the text on the back of the coin to Raziel, "Taurus had an idea. He would give Virgo a gift. Through the forest and over the mountain, he found a star." It spins gently, bobing alongside Aries. Mog chortles softly, it is always nice to not be recognized, he goes over to check on Jasper then sends him off for something. "Now then children we must discuss the Stelazzio, i have sent Jasper to retrieve Gemini and Cancer, if I am to trust them to your hand I must know why"

Raziel ponders on the words before snapping out of it and looking towards Vazkor. The man rises up then and gives Vaz a brief squeeze before turning him around and muttering lowly, "if you see a moogle that size and with such a weapon your looking at Lord Mog.. the moogles patron spirit." He gives the man a chance to pay his respects then before he nods slowly, " we are attempting to reunite them. This began with my wings being removed by the Mist Dragon.. through research I found my people had in times past commited an evil to her.. so I wanted to wrong the right and regain my wings once more. They put Aries into my keeping so that we might follow the trail to Virgo.. The Mortal Sage said this was foretold."

Vazkor returns the squeeze... Before blinking, and looking back at Mog. Quickly, he gives a bow then, "Ah, I apologize, Lord Mog... I did not realize, for obvious reasons..." He offers the large Moogle then, and ends up looking slightly uncomfortable as he falls quiet and listens to Raziel's explanation of events, just nodding a bit in agreement.

Mog listens to Raziel and inclines his head "I have heard of this prophecy... I did not expect two such as you to come this way...." he looks at Jasper who seems to have recovered and his priest inclines his head then looks up at Vazkor and Raziel, "Sorry for shooting at you, they tell me I was crazyed by some dark twisted magic." He holds out the coins, "I give unto you Gamini which reads... Gemini thought by the river, 'I will sing her a song.' He didn't know where she was, but he hoped his song would reach her." he shakes his head and sighs, "We are not sure which song it refers too but the next coin, Cancer it reads, Cancer headed to the cape where Virgo waited. The sun was setting into the ocean. Would he finally see her?" he lets go of both coins and they drift up to float around Vazkor and Raziel. "I will stay with you and offer what help and insight i can to solving were you must head if you will accept my help... I feel I must make up for what I did to you both." he glances at Mog who speaks at last. "all is forgiven to you Vazkor you were not to know who I was.... I fear this quest of yours is important and I will do wht I may to aid you, my summoner Talen" he indicates the engineer with the summoners staff who waves at you, "Shall accompany you on this journey if you so wish, his skills will no doubt be of great aid to you"

Chapter 8

After the rather spectacular failed attempt to steal the Stellazzio from the Cathedral of Steam and the interuption of Lord Mog and the decision that his summoner Talen would join them on their quest fore the next Stellazzio coin you have had some time to rest and recuperate in the Catherdal whilst the people of Mog's cathedral did some research into their next location. What they have come up with is an ancient shrine on the far coast, the Cliffs of Misted Harmony about two hundred miles down coast from Baguba Port to the east.

Vazkor has been up for a while already... The man sitting on the edge of the bed they were given to rest in, and getting his gear in order. Already wearing his leather armor, patched up where needed after all the fights they've been involved in, and his two lightning elemental swords sheathed at his side. Carefully placing fresh supplies into his backback for the travel up ahead, he glances over at Raziel, quietly commenting after a few moments, "... I should have killed her. I don't think we've seen the last of her, somehow." And after that statement, he pushes himself up. Swinging his pack around to strap it on, and heading towards the door, "We'd better get a head start."

Raziel hasn't really been resting much.. rather when allowed he's been in the thick of the study and once the cliffs are pointed out he's begun to plot the course and start restocking their supplies in preperation for it. The day of their departure he finishes slipping the coins away, this time hiding them under his clothing rather than in a pack, before looking at Vazkor. "I think your right.. I'm not going to relax until this is at an end.." He picks up his pack then and heads out to meet up with Talen, inquiring when they find him, "have you travelled much?"

There is a gentle knock upon the door and when whoever it is is given leave to enter Talen walks inside, the moogle smiling, dressed in over-alls and a blue hat with his summoner staff held in paw and a pack upon his back. "Morning kupo, are we ready to leave? I got my ship all prepped for us to leave kupo-po! It should be quite a journey, she's small but well built."

Vazkor looks at the Moogle as they all meet up... Standing quite a bit taller than Talen, but no matter. Glancing the Summoner over, to see how he prepared for the upcoming trip, gear wise, he nods towards him, "Any ship will be fine... We've not had a chance to travel in a normal manner in some time." He grins just a bit, and glances at Raziel, "Well, I'm ready if you are, dear."

Raziel's brow perks then he nods, "A ship? That would be perfect and will hopefully help to speed things along." The man nods to the summoner and then to Vazkor before he starts towards the door, "lead the way then Talen, the swifter gone the swifter we can return I hope."

The moogle smiles and nods, leading the way out of the room and down beneath the Cathedral and through the tunnels beneath to the Aerodrome "Ah kupo-po, your Magic Carpet is already on board, it seemed to just... know were it was meant to be!" He leads you down to a rickety dock and there ia an airship.. it is small... it is a bit slap-dash and creaking looking. With an aging balloon envelope, propellors held on by segmented pieces of wood and no topside cabin just an awning and the hold below "There she is! The Mia-Diaor!"

Vazkor follows Talen down towards the Aerodrome... Mostly remaining silent on the walk over, though he shakes his head in mild bemusement at the mention of the magic carpet. And as he comes upon the sight of the airship right after... He can't help but arch his brow a bit, looking upon the contraption with slight air of doubt, and even shooting a quick glance at Raziel. The Aegyl likely knowing the former air-captain would be especially judgemental about any ship. He keeps quiet about that however, and just nods, "A decent vessel."

"The mortal sage's carpet actually.. I imagine it's possessed of a lot of knowledge for all that it appears a simple magic carpet." But that is said out of hearing range of the ship. Once they step out onto the dock he looks over the ship and his brows lift as he looks it over and then glances back at Vazkor wordlessly. Looking to the moogle then the man dips his head, "thank you for being willing to put her in danger for us."

Talen waves a paw "Aw it is nothing, it is a real adventure!" he casts off in short order, putting the two to work and though things creak a bit the engine purrrsd to life majestically and the ship slowly rises up and out into the traffic flow of airships departing the underground Aerodrome through its hidden exits. "So it'll take us about a day to fly to the Cliffs, it should be quite a journey but a fun one I reckon!"

Vazkor helps casting off the lines after getting on the rickety vessel, the man visibly having done small ship-based tasks like it before, before he settles down again and takes up position at the bow. Leaning on the railing (carefully) as he watches the activity around them while the vessel floats into the stream of air traffic that's already heading out of the city. Glancing at Raziel as he does so, and remarking with a slight grin, "Atleast we won't get rawhide from sitting on a Chocobo for a week..." Before looking around further, "Now where's that crazy carpet?" Raziel makes sure everything is stowed away and then lingers on the main deck, his face turning towards the wind as the ship makes it's departure. In essence he's doing what he can to stay out of the way of those that know what they're doing. He looks back towards Vazkor for a few moments before he snorts a little bit then and shakes his head before looking towards the moogle, "how long do you think it'll take to get there?"

The carpet seems to have been waiting for this! It swooops down from above the airbag and loooops around Vazkor in what could be a friendly frolic! It then flies over and pesters Raziel, bampfs the Mog's pom-pom then flies back up to settle down atop the bag and enjoy the relaxing ride! Talen shakes his head and kupo-pos at Raziel, "A day kupo, we can't fly all the way in, the cliffs are a Null-Zone, the sort of area that cancels out Magic kupo, we can fly up to the border and land then have to make our way to the cliff top and try to find this temple by foot kupo."

Vazkor blinks at the sudden magic carpet glompings! And can't help but laugh a bit afterwards, shaking his head, and watching the carpet do the rounds, bugging the others as well, "Good to see you too, carpet." He remarks, before switching his attention back to Talen, hrming some at the description of the cliffs, "So no magic... Well, I know Raziel can handle a blade if need be... How about you, Talen? Do summons even work in null zones?"

Raziel's expression turns sour as he hears about the null zone.. so much that he entirely ignores the carpet. Vazkor is given a brief look before he shakes his head, "I can swing it. I'll keep to my staff however. I have a little better control when I use both hands." He shakes his head in answer to Vazkor's question about summons, butlets the moogle answer for himself.

Talen laughs and kupos and pats his holster "I have my guns, they work thankfully, nothing magically about them. No summoning however kuuu.. ah Raziel takwe the tiller" he thrusts the tiller into the man's hands and vanishes below decks as a strange almost hgarmonic plunking noise emmanates from the engine.

Vazkor glances down at the holstered guns, and nods... And is about to respond, when he quirks his brows at the noise, and Talen's sudden departure instead! A hand is almost instinctively placed on a railing, to have something to hold onto, as he looks at poor Raziel who's made to steer the ship, "... I hope we even survive long enough to get to those cliffs."

Raziel blinks and looks down as the tiller is put into his hands. He looks at Vazkor for a moment before he mutters, "if I send us crashing towards something.." Thouhg he looks down and frowns while his body tenses up just a little bit and he comments to Vazkor, "our packs.. I think you might want to grab those.. just in case."

So far so good, Raziel seems able to respond to the yawning, shifts in the airship as it flies along, there are some banging noises and some swear words in Moglish emmanating from below but they are working away hard at what they do down there it seems as the airship tacks along on a wind current, toward a bank of clouds

Vazkor looks at Raziel and nods, muttering, "Just keep her steady." As he jogs off to retrieve the packs, slinging one over each shoulder as soon as he finds them, and promptly returning to the Aegyl. Stating with some apparent relief, "Doing good..." Even as he listens to all the noises. He calls out then, "Need any help down there?"

Raziel nods to Vazkor as he keeps the ship steady, but he stays tense throughout. He may be used to soaring the sky trails, but it's different when it's just you rather than a bulky ship. The man crowns to himself a little bit and chews on his lip before looking down as the cursing erupts from below. "Hummmm..."

The ship skims thorugh the clouds easily enough, the clinging, moist liquid flowing around them until you emerge from the other side triumphantly. Talen re-apears and pushes his hat back "Yes Vazkor can you help me with this? Our Balance arm is out ofd place and our navigation gimballs are spinning I can't do them both at once and we can't turn the engine off either! Raziel keep steering" he looks ahead "We are doiung rathe rgood."

Vazkor nods a bit at Talen's request, followed by a slight shrug, "I was never the one who fixed my ship, but I'll give it a shot... I'll try the arm." He responds, and gives one last glance at Raziel, throwing him a bit of a reassuring nod, before he drops the packs he gathered earlier and heads off to help with getting things in order again. "That... right Vaz go and help will you?" He sends a quick look to his partner before looking down at the moogle and nodding as he turns his attention back to keeping the ship steady. "I'm familiar with flying, not this, but there are some similiarities.." The mage turns his eyes ahead once again then, watching the play of clouds and any nearby birds for teltale signs of the currents.

Raziel is sailing along admirably well when Vazkor gets a bit mixed up between Talen's left and his left and pulls somethign the wrong way. There is a clacking grinding GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRL Sound and the airship LURCHES side ways and starts to spin.... Talen hurries over to correct it and Raziel, cool as a cucumber just twitches the rudder and adjusts their course to compensate... ) [Spoofed By: Silvante] Vazkor tries his best! Honest! But like he said, he's no engineer, or really anything remotely related to having any technical skills. He looks cool and swordfights, and that's about it. Looking at Talen then as he nearly causes their downfall, he grunts, "Sorry about that, tell me what to do again."

Raziel gasps and he quickly corrects the course as he looks down quickly and calls, "Is everything alright down there?!" The man actually sounds just a /touch/ flustered which is unusual for him. The man shifts his grip a little bit and braces himself with a grimace. "Whatever just happened, lets not do it again."

Talen shakes his head and points "You.. you go erm upstairs and keep an eye on the compass or something kupo-po! I'll finish up down here" he shoos VAzkor back out and continues to work on the engines whilst Raziel flies them onward through the lowering afternoon skies, thicker clouds starting to build up ahead.

Vazkor shrugs again, and does as he's told without protest! Wishing Talen good luck before he heads back upstairs to join Raziel again, standing near the Aegyl and watching him steer the vessel, "I think you saved our asses back there, that's what." He belatedly responds to him.

Raziel frowns off towards the thicker clouds and then glances at Vazkor briefly before he looks off again, "lucky.. that's what we've been so far. It's like trying to control a balloon.. well almost literally.. compared to what I'm used to. However with those clouds ahead I'd rather Talen be at the helm. Would you stick your head down and warn him about them?"

The clouds are looming in close now... very close, the ship is sailing merrily toward them without slowing, flowing thorugh the air easily and eagerly propelled by a wind behind and the speed of the engines.

Vazkor nods firmly at Raziel, and only ever so briefly glances at those clouds, already turning away again to duck his head into the stairwell leading downstairs, calling down towards Talen, "Dangerous looking clouds up ahead! Any closer to fixing this thing?"

Raziel's brows furrow for a moment and then he shakes his head, "I don't think we should go through there.." He mutters and then he calls out after Vazkor's warning, "I'm turning the ship. I'd rather not go through those if possible.." And he starts to do just that, deciding that given his inexperiance safe is better than sorry.

Talen comes scrambling up from below decks "Oh shit! TURN! Raziel TURN that's the edge of the null zone! Don't sail into it! Thankfully Raziel is already turning.... question is... are they turning in time to not sail into it!"

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