Sin of the People
Contents
Book 1
Chapter 5
In the morning the party are woken up by the temple bells ringing in harmony, four mighty bronze tongued beasts atop each tower ringing in the new day! The chimes can probably be heard for miles across the steppes. Your rooms are still dark, the drapes drawn but the call of morning has gone out! A new day has begun!
Raziel startles awake as the bells ring out. He looks around the darkened room for a moment before groaning and slipping out of the bed. His still tired and achy body moving a bit slowly. Dressing then he tosses back the drapes and looks out of the room before glancing over to the bed and noting, "time to get up."
Vazkor stirs a bit as the bells starting ringing... A whole less startled by them than Raziel at that, perhaps due to being a city boy and having grown up with the sound of church bells and the like. He just raises his head off the pillow, and squints at the Aegyl as the throws open the drapes, before grunting and pushing himself out of bed... Moving a bit slow as well as he goes for his clothes and gear as they sit draped across a nearby chair. Having already dug out all his ruined stuff the night before, including those melted swords rolled up in his old rain poncho, "So what's the plan today?" He asks, rumbly.
"The plan is ..." Raziel pauses then walks over to start going through his things to pull out the coin that his people entrusted him with. "We will request an audience with one of the scholar priests familiar with pre-folly artifacts.. well further back than pre-folly. And we'll see what information we can find off of him." The man looks over then, "if we can figure out where this coin originated from then we have a starting point for Aries' journey."
Vazkor hmms some, listening to Raziel's plan as he slides on his trousers, shoves on his boots, and straps on his leather tunic, followed by his swordless sword belt. He nods then, giving a brief, tired smile as he gathers back his hair to put it in a ponytail and get it out of the way, "Alright... Well, get dressed, and I'll follow your lead... Though if you don't mind, I'd also like to find someone that can maybe get me a weapon of somekind."
Once they are dressed and emerge from their chambers they are greeted by a young acolyte in white robes. She bows to you both, "Good morning to you both visitors, would you care to break your fast with us in the refectory? I am Aliandra, your guide whilst you stay with us here at the Temple."
Raziel nods to Vazkor before murmuring, "I hope you will be able to find something." He emerges from the room then, having already dressed, and pauses as the greeting is given. The man bows in responce before he straightens back up again once again. "I thank you for your time and consideration then. I think we would.. and after if one of the priest scholars has time for me I've something that I'm hoping to find some answers out about."
Vazkor greets the acolyte with a bow in return, responding to her, "Good morning, miss... And I could certainly use some breakfast." He smiles, before glancing at Raziel as he makes his request, nodding some and then adding, "And while of less importance, I wonder, would you have some sort of blacksmith or master at arms within your Temple grounds? I'm afraid I need to replace some... Things that got damaged in our unfortunate run-in with a Mesmerize herd."
Aliandra nods her head and motions for you to follow her, "Of course good Master" she addresses Raziel, "Which subjects did you wish to enquire within? I can take you to visit the scholars you wish to see." She then nods to Raziel, "I can direct you to the Captain Smith's Office if you wish after breakfast whilst I escort Master Raziel here to the scholars?"
Raziel follows the woman down the hall and he holds up the disc so she can see it, "ancient artifacts.. And.. or someone that might know history regarding the Zodiac. I know.. actually that will be enough." He catches himself from going into a full explaination and pulls the coin back against his chest again while they're led to the refectory.
Vazkor hmms some and nods, "Thank you, that sounds fine." He glances at Raziel then, "Do you want me to go with you first, dear? I just need to get myself a new sword before we go, but that should be a bit yet, yes?"
SHe regards the coin with mild interest, "Brother Ferdinand will be able to help I am sure, he is our most learned astronomer." She nods to Vazkor and shows you both into the refectory, "Please be seated, enjoy breakfast, I shall be outside. When you are ready I'll have someone show you to the armoury Master Vazkor and take Master Raziel to the Astronomy Tower."
Raziel inclines his head and murmurs his thanks before stepping into the room. The meal is taken in silence, but what they are given is utterly demolished by the mage who's surprisingly hungry this day. Once finished the man nods to Vazkor and then rises and leaves the room to meet up with their guide again. "Thank you for waiting."
Vazkor equally devours his food! Though with probably slightly more finesse and manners. He even is polite enough to hide his burp behind his hand as he pushes his empty playe away, and then gets up to follow after Raziel, "Well, I'll see you in a few hours, hm? I hope you'll learn something useful, dear."
Aliandra bows to VAzkor and hands him over to another acolyte, this quiet man leads him out into the main courtyard of the temple and across it toward a gate leading into yet another interior courtyard. This one has workshops around the outer edge, kilns, paper makers, binders, forge.... He is taken up to a large wooden door, inside is an office and behind it is a very, very large Rhino morph. He nods to Vazkor gently "Morning, what brings you here traveller?" Aliandra meanwhile takes Raziel through a set of doos and down the long path through the central tanscript of the library. "We need to go up the south west tower, Brother Ferdinand lives and works up there if anyone can tell you what that coin is, it is him."
Raziel lifts a hand as Vazkor is led off and then lowers his eyes for a moment. There's a faint shift of his shoulders before the unwinged aegyl turns to follow after Aliandra. He looks around quite a bit as he's led through the building, though a brow lifts in responce to her explaination and he nods in responce. "The higher he is hopefully the less the lights of the city will interfere with the study of the skies perhaps? It's quite understandable."
Vazkor gives Raziel a wave and a smile, before being led away. The man looks around the workshop area with a curious gaze as he's led through it, before stepping through the large door and facing the big Rhino within... He offers the beastkin a smile however, seemingly not intimidated by his size, and simply approaches him as he unslings his wrapped up swords from his back, "Hello, my good man... I wonder if you could help me." He sets the package on the counter, and unwraps it, revealing the two rather melted swords... Though which to an expert eye will still show to have once been something quite special, with an ornate craftmanship that is likely Burmecian in origin, "... I'm afraid I had a run in with some Mesmerize outside your walls... This is the result. So you can see I'm in the business for something to serve as a temporary replacement."
Aliandra smiles at Raziel, "Indeed but this is not a city, it is a just the Temple Library" the large room they are moving throgh is all marble and oak, with tall pillars and what look to be endless stacks of bookcases going off in all directions! It takes five minutes to traverse the main trancept and enter the winding staircase that climbs toward the astronomy tower which is actually ABOVE the belfry all the way up the top! The door is quite sturdy and the floor of the room beyond is stone and the room is curved metal, a dome of some strange substance Raziel will never have seen before. There are about four large telescpes, smaller ones set up at windows arond the room and work benches and tables and charts nd graphs... "Brother Ferdinand? Brother Ferdinand we have a guest?" She calls out and looks around with a frown. "Oh dear I wonder were he has gotten to...."
The rhino nods as Vazkor talks and then frowns at the swords "I see... you did have a run in, what did they do, hit you with lightning?" He touches one of the mangled blades, "I am Smith Captain Marco, this is quite the mangled set." he runs his fingers along the metal. "I can sell you a sword but nothing Burmecian craft I am afraid... as for these.... well. I can give you some names for smiths who might be able to help?"
Raziel continues to look around as they wander though. The library a great interest to him, though he can think of others who would be drooly puddles of want if they were ever allowed in here. Namely Ainsley. The mage doesn't let himself fall behind though as they ascend up into the tower and upon their entry he slows to look around. The telescopes, great and small, each drawing his curiousity as does the strange substance making up the walls of the room. He too looks around then and then considers before tilting his head to the lady, "is it possible that he's still abed? His study is the type that would keep him up late after all."
Vazkor frowns a bit at his swords as he sees their state again... And quickly wraps them back up as he nods, giving the Rhino a quick smile, "Any names like that would be most welcome, sir... As for what I need, I can do without the Burmecian part for the moment, of course. I trust you have perfectly servicable blades yourself... A Cutlass, perhaps? Or a saber? Maybe even a simple longsword. Something suited to my style."
Something hits Raziel atop his head, "I am not abed you young whipper snapper!" An elder kangaroo rat-kin walks around in front of the aegyl and frowns at him, leaning on his cane. His fur completly white, "Why are you disturbing me hmm? What does a wingless Aegly want with me?" he prods the man in the stomach, "I am busy mapping the Marcona Cluster and you come wake me up!" He gives Aliandra a glower and she blushes and bows, "He requested information on the Zodiac learned master, please try and help him." She then smiles at Raziel and steps to the side, "I will wait for you outside."
Marco stands up and nods, beckoning Vazkor to follow him, he opens a door behind his desk and leads Vazkor into a room of swords, he looks around and taps his chin. The room... is just nothing but swords, at the far end is an arch leading into a room of pole arms. There are barrels around the edge of the room filled with swords and above each barrel, hanging on display is the sword type in the barrel. He gestures, "Take your pick Master Vazkor, I will have to charge you for it I am afraid. Now as for smiths who can help you, probably Za'Tana of Salkiawood, Harna Gantha of Giruvegan or Yalita Morabina from Baguba Port."
Raziel decides not to mention that the astronomer just disproved his first statement. Though not abed, still asleep. The man straightens a little bit, not at the cane poking but at being called out so easily for what he is. "How did you.. no nevermind." He shakes his head briefly before nodding to Aliandra and then looking back at Brother Ferdinand. "I'm sorry for interrupting your.. studies, sir.. but the wings are what I've come about. I'm attempting to get them back. My time with my people has led me to believe that this coin holds the key.. and it's leading me somewhere. I had hoped that such a... learned scholar as yourself could assist me." As he speaks he keeps his tone quiet and mild, merely occasionally halting to look for the right word before continuing on. Once the request is put out there he holds out the Stellazio coin for the astronomer to see.
Vazkor arches his brow a bit as he's led into the sword room... And he lets his eyes go over all of them, slowly turning in place as he does, starting to grin a bit. He faces the Rhino again then after a moment, nodding at him firmly, "Quite a collection you have here, good sir. And money won't be an issue. May I?" And with that, he starts wandering past everything on offer... Occassionally picking out a sword that catches his interest, and setting its blade across his hand to figure out it's point of balance... Most he puts back again, but it doesn't take long for him to pick out two swords that seem to agree with him. One a Cutlass like which he always seemed to prefer... The other a Katana. Carrying both back to the Rhino, he grins again, shrugging some at his choice as he holds up the latter, "An indulgence, I'm afraid... It has been quite a while since I saw one of these. They always struck a chord."
Brother Ferdinand drops his cane and stares at the coin in shock, "Tha... That's the Aries! Whwere... hjow.....what..." he sits down with a thump and stares at the coin. "My boy that's /the/ Aries, as in the actual honest for goodness, swear it on Andromeda's name Aries Coin? The starting point! The fist link in the Stelazzio chain, let me see, let me see." he takes the coin and polishes his glasses ad pulls them on to stare at it in awe, hands trembling. Marco laughs and slaps Vazkor on the arm, "No worries boy, the cutlas is one hundred twenty, the Katana... well that is three thousand, those things are not easy to come by these days, very few of the masters still make them." He grins "But I am always happy to sell however, we are the repository of all knowledge, that includes knowing how to make things, not just books."
Raziel's brows come together and then he sighs and nods. "It is.. it's the treasure of my people, given for me to follow the chain in search of Virgo." He lets the coin go before withdrawing his hands slowly. "I will have to return it to my people.. but.. if you'll help me.." He looks lost in thought for a moment before snapping his eyes up quickly, "I'll want for you to make a rubbing of it to keep that within the library at least. I cannot give it up, but it's knowledge I can share."
Vazkor grins some even as he reels a bit from the slap on his arm, "Well, you're very well stocked, good sir. If distance was not an issue, I'd have to put thought into letting you supply my fencing school, hm?" Taking a moment to study the Katane's blade again then, he nods a bit, "Three thousand... A fair enough price for something as well crafted." Setting both blades on the counter then, he starts to unsling his pack to get to some of the money stored there, commenting in the meantime, "And thank you for the names, also... I should be heading to the port city soon, and I'll be sure to seek out this Yalita Morabina."
Brother Ferdinand shakes his head "No.. no I cannot take a rubbing, it would be sacriligious, so... yes yes ther starting point is what you want yes?" he hunts through his papers and scrolls and pulls something out. "Here we go..." he points "Here see, to the west of Baguba Port, about five days time, that it is said where the starting point is. If you have the Aries in that place when the stars are out then it will show you the path and distance to Virgo!" his hands tremble "Oh how I wish I could go with you..." he stares at the coin, stroking it and sighsm "I cannot take a rubbing but I can write down what it says, do you mind?" He moves to his desk, setting the coin down and pilling out pen and ink.
Marco takes payment and chuckles "Well I hope she can help you, Morabina is a bit of an insane one I should warn you, but all Moogle's are. But she makes very good work and she is known for being able to restore things to their original condition. If she cannot help you then I am sure she can suggest other names." He smiles, "Now then you will be wanting the sai for that Katana, let me just get you one."
Raziel considers before nodding a little in responce. Not regretting making the offer despite him saying it's sacreligious. The man listens closely and lifts a hand to rub over his chin before he murmurs, "it seems vague. 'Have Aries in that place'.. But I will trust you and pray that I do not make a misstep." His brow lifts then before the mage motions, "by all means. In this place knowledge is meant to be shared and you have illuminated me as I had hoped."
Vazkor slings his pack back across his shoulder after he finished paying, having it be considerably lighter now, and retrieves his wrapped up, ruined swords as well before he waits for Marco to get the Sai for his brand new Katana, chuckling lightly as he does, "It seems alot of times, such genius comes with insanity... I do not mind, if it means having good work done." Once he gets everything he needs from Marco, he starts attaching his new blades to his belt... Actually doing it the proper way with the Katana at that, as if already familiar with such. Raising a hand then, he remarks, "Thank you for your help, I'm much obliged. There will be plenty of dangers ahead of me that require good swordwork." And with that, after one final greeting, he steps back out, hoping to find an Acolyte that can bring him to Raziel.
A voice calls out from above, "Oh yes, very illuminating, most fascinating Brother" there is a rustle of wings and looking up Raziel gets chance to see the intruder. An aegyl woman, dressed completly in black, her hair tied back and hidden beneath a hood. Despite the shadows under her cowl the Aegyl gets a good look at her face, good enough that he'd recognize her if he saw her again, but she is not anyone he recognizes. "The raven thanks you both for giving me such fascinating information." She then hurls something at Brother Ferdinand.... something. Raziel leaps and manages to catch it, only to have it explode, smoke flooding his lungs. There are several more paf, paf, pafs and the brother can be heard coughing. The room fills with smoke, there is a sudden downdraft... the flap of wings, a creak of wood and then more wing beats as the smoke flows through ther room!
"The Raven, what a horrible.." Just as he's about to insult her choice of 'fancy' names he spots the projectile and he interposes himself while catching it. As it explodes the man fals back towards the kangaroo rat and then starts trying to cover his mouth while at the same time choking out, "Protect the coin.." In fact he doesn't launch off a fireball, which would be his usual action, but instead turns to try and grab get his hand on 'Aries', to make sure that it doesn't get stolen in the confusion. The artifact and man with the knowledge his priorities.. and in that order.
"Brother.. brother...." coughing.... Aliandra has rushed in only to be driven back out of the room by the smoke coughing loudly. Brother Ferdinand can be heard to land on the floor with a thump..... the smoke is thick, cloying but it is already starting to fade. It doesn't help that the sheer amount of it drives Raziel to his knees, still awake, just but weak now... as the smoke clears.......
Marco sees Vazkor outside, chatting amiably, "I am always happy to help, the steppes are a dangerous place to be without... any....." he trails off and stairs up at the roof of the library.... a cloud of smoke can be seen rising in the near distance. A haze of grey shrouding one of the towers. The rhino gapes and stares.... "ALARM! RIng the gongs, seal the Gates!" he charges off, "Attack! Attack the Astronomy tower is under attack! Alarm!" The courtyard is suddenly boiling with activity, people dropping whatever thye are doing, crafts man leaping for weapons stored near at hand, trained wearriors gearing up as quickly as possible.
Vazkor nods and smiles at Marco, opening his mouth to speak as well before he blinks at the Rhino's sudden outburst, and quickly turns his head to see what the man is gaping at... He blinks again then, and arches his brow as he notices the smoke billowing from the tower, and the winged figure flying off... And he ignores the Rhino as he runs off to call to arms, figuring he has his own problems now, and guessing they have something to do with Raziel. Did the Aegyl go crazy? And with that, he starts racing to the tower.
It is a long run and Vazkor isn't alone, guards and acolytes racing through the grand trancept to the door to the Astronomy tower. When Vazkor arrives, slightly ahead of everyone else thanks to his amazing phsyique. He is greated by a worrying sight, the door is jammed shut and pinned to it is a stylised raven, drawn with exquisite skill....
Vazkor skids to a halt as he arrives at the door, and peers down at the raven... Before he reaches out and tears it off the door, and without much other thought hands it back to a nearby Acolyte, letting them deal with it for now as he has more pressing matters at hand. He briefly tries the door, finding it jammed, and he wastes no more time after, shouting, "STEP BACK!" Before he suddenly shoulders forward into the door!
Vazkor skids to a halt as he arrives at the door, and peers down at the raven... Before he reaches out and tears it off the door, and without much other thought hands it back to a nearby Acolyte, letting them deal with it for now as he has more pressing matters at hand. He briefly tries the door, finding it jammed, and he wastes no more time after, shouting, "STEP BACK!" Before he suddenly shoulders forward into the door!
Vazkor grunts as he hits the door pretty solidly... But he ignores the dull pain he caused himself, and simply steps back again, putting some more distance between him and hit before he charges in once more! "Raziel, open this blasted thing if you're there!"
The door shifts again and someone politely nudges Vazkor to one side, "Allow me lad," Marco murmurmurs, the rhino lifts one large foot and kicks, the door crumples into matchwood and he nods in satisfaction. "Ok lad, your man is up there, ypou first I'll follow!"
Vazkor rubs at his shoulder at eyes up Marco as the big man simply kicks in that damn door... He nods a bit, and rumbles, "Thanks." Before he smoothly draws his Katana and charges into the room! Letting his gaze flick around this way and that to try and find Raziel, or get an idea of what the hell is going on.
It is the bottom of a staircase, inside one of the towers.... the stairs wind up and up and up... stopping at doors on the way up. Each door checked is locked as it should be, storage rooms and document files... up and up... to the belfry..... and then u p again past the belfry to the door to the observatory. Crumpled outside uncncious is Acolyte Aliandra, the door is open and gry smoke is wafting out of it, most of it has dispersed by now and inside can be seen an unconcious roo-rat and a nearly unconcious Raziel.....
Vazkor growls a bit as he ends up wasting time on all those useless doors on the way up, and by the time he gets to the top, he's looking quite grumpy! Though that expression soon changes again, into one of concern, as he looks into the smoke-filled room... Motioning at the people behind him then, he exclaims, "Check your people!" Before he heads towards Raziel's side, crouching down to gently shake him.
Marco and the other guards quickly help more Ferdinand and Aliandra out of the room and into the fresh air down in the belfry, they suggest Vazkor brings Raziel down there as well....
Raziel coughs as he's shaken and he looks up, eyes squinting for a moment before he scrubs at his eyes and starts trying to stagger up and look around for the coin. "That -bitch-," the mage hisses out, his cool demeanor entirely gone. "That stupid named bithc. What aegyl calls themselves 'The Raven'. I swear I'm going to send her down into Ifrit's realm and stake her over the roasting fires and watch her feathers be burnt off." He ruffles through the papers, scattering them everywhere before coughing and nearly falling over again.
Vazkor lets Raziel rant and rave for a moment... Before he states in a calm voice, "We'll get her, dear, whoever she is... The Raven?" He shakes his head some, and then as Raz nearly falls over again, catches him and supports him, starting to guide him out of the room, "Let's get the hell out of here and you can tell me."
Downstairs in the Belfry Marco nods to you both as you enter, Ferdinand and Aliandra are being helped by their collegaues and he walks over to you, the Rhino frowning. "Ferdinand says you were attacked by an Aegyl who stole some sort of artifact from you?" he frowns at the stairs and then gapes and bows. "Master....." the room goes quiet as a very elderly, grey furred figure shuffles up the stairs, walking slowly with a long gnarled walking staff. He is a human, his hair as gray as it is possible to be, his body stooped and ancient, dressed in flowing robes and escorted by several others. He pauses at the entrance to the door and looks around, the Mortal Sage himself.....
Raziel is drawn downstairs, and frankly right now he's in no shape to resist, but by god he looks like he wants to. The man is about to answer Marco, actually it looks like he's about to break out into a cursing fit while describing what happened, but hearing the word 'master' brings him up short. Raziel turns, expecting to see the head priest of the temple library. The man reins himself in with the experience of a lifetime and slowly bows before the high priest before straightening up. His anger continues to seeth under the surface, but for the moment he has himself once more under control.
Vazkor nods some at Marco as he drags the angry Aegyl down towards the others, starting to answer, "That's it, apparently..." He glances at Raziel for confirmation, before he turns around as the old priest enters, blinking some as everyone around him suddenly bows. Doing the same a few seconds later, a bit awkwardly, having no real idea what to do otherwise.
The sage looks around, his bushy eyebrows drawn down as he listens to Marco's report then draws himself up, he casts back his cloak and seems to stand tall. "Master Vazkor, Master Raziel of Emberstand, please.... stand before me" he speaks in a warm, authoritive voice."
Raziel tilts his head towards Marco's recitation and if all is in order, which it likely is given where they are, the man remains silent. He looks towards Vazkor then before turning his eyes to the Sage. After a few moments he steps forward as requested, though for now he remains quite silent.
Vazkor glances back at Raziel with a questioning look, having no real knowledge of what all of this means, never having been the scholary type, and almost entirely lacking in any magical abilities at that. But as Raziel steps forward as requested, he just gives a minute shrug, and then follows after him.
The Mortal Sage looks at both men before him and speaks quietly, "Your quest has been placed in jeopody, there are... prophecies concerning the Stelazzio, the fact that Aries has been brought to this temple is of great import. I fear... the balance of the Court of Fate is at risk... your quest for Wings has layers within layers. The raven is known to us, she is a thief, a notorious one who targets magical artifacts. I fear she may try to race ahead of you, to collect the Stelazzio before you..... we shall not permit this. I am empowered to give you both aid, for it was whilst beneath the protection of the Sages that this theft occurred."
Slowly a brow arches upwards at the mention of prophecies. He continues to remain silent though while the high priest continues. One hand clenches and unclenches, allowing him some type of movement to distract from the anger so that he can start to think of the implications. Eventually he starts to nod though. "I will thank you for that aid then, but before I inquire just what you have in mind. I will ask for information on the prophecies you've spoken of. This is out of my.. sphere of knowledge. As for this.. Raven. I will not allow her to succeed in this." His tone has dipped into a darker, deadly realm. "This I do swear."
Vazkor listens, but still has no real idea what most of it really means. Well, everything besides the whole thing about the Aegyl thief that is. He understands those! Frowning some, he glances over at Raziel to watch his reaction for a moment, before looking back at the priest, and awaiting his further explanation.
Closing his eyes the Sage sways and then begins to speak in a low, quiet, singsone tone.
Raziel's mouth opens as he prepares to say something, and then he stops as the prophecy is pased on. That it describes the two of them is.. unnerving at best, but as it continues he starts to frown and murmurs to himself. "Restore the Coins, Find the answer.." He looks at Vazkor then, "coins... unless we hurry she'll beat us to the next and we'll lose the trail." As for the daughter, this he doesn't even understand just yet.
Vazkor headtilts at the prophecy... And can atleast halfway make sense of it himself, giving Raziel a questioning glance at the whole 'Two children of Terra have come' bit, and then nodding as the Aegyl starts talking to him, "Then let's not waste any time dear... I saw which way she flew."
Ferdinand hobbles over using his walking staff, "She flies to the location I gave you Raziel, she intends to be there when the stars rise. You must stop her!" The Mortal Sage rests a hand on the brother's shoulder and nods, "We have interpreted some parts of the prophecy but the rest is up to you children, there are twelve Stellazzio, twelve coins of the Zodiac, the great advisors of the webs to Andromeda you must journey to Baguba Port then on to stop her. But first.... first yes... two gifts to aid you in your journey."
Raziel lifts his hand and strokes along his neck for a moment before he nods to Ferdinand in responce, "this is what I would imagine as well.. We'll need a quick mode of transport. On chocobo we might be able to keep up with her, but we won't surpass her." He frowns a little bit in thought before looking over at Vazkor and nodding briefly before he looks back as the mention of gifts is given.
Vazkor listens to the priest again... Before nodding, "We will stop her, sir. This is important to us." Is all he says to him, before commenting to Raziel, "One could hope they have hoverbikes here..." And then falling quiet again to let the priest get to the gift giving.
The Sage chuckles, "I am afraid we do not have Hover Bikes but for your Raziel" he takes a scroll out of his sleeve and holds it out. "For you, this contains a spell, it can be used once, use it when you want things to stay on the ground." He then turns to Vazkor and holds out his hand, "Your Katana please and your old weapons."
Raziel accepts the scroll and looks it over, consideringly before he nods and tucks it away. "This will be key, certainly.." He looks at Vazkor then lifting a brow before realizing that the man does indeed have some new weapons.
Vazkor smiles a bit about the hoverbikes, "Worth a try, sir..." And then watches Raziel receive that scroll, looking curious. But as the priest mentions his weapons next, he blinks, and for a brief moment seems to study him... Before he reaches over with one hand to unsling his wrapped up, melted swords, while the other smoothly pulls free the Katana, sai and all... Handing both over.
The sage holds them in his hands and sighs, "The paths of the future are never easily fortold but I see that these weapons will be needed. Weapons made for but one purpose... to kill... but not who you expect. When the time comes do not hesitate to strike..... all will be well" Lightning wreathes his hands and the melted swords and the katana are engulfed in blue lightning.....
Raziel shakes his head to Vazkor before he looks at the sage. His brow lifts a little and he seems to consider the words, but offers nothing in responce as he focuses on the blades.
Vazkor frowns at those words, but does not yet comment on them... Just looking as the priest starts applying what seems like magic to his blades, and wondering what will come of it... Lightning crackles back and forth betweeen the blades, he lets go of them and they begin to rotate around each other....... with a flickering crack of thunder they vanish and reappear, a cutlass and katana sheathed and snug at Vazkor's waists. "Use these well, the Lord Ramuh has accepted your old swords and sent you new, courtesy of the Keep of Gilgamesh"
Raziel's brow lifts a bit and he looks to the new weapons before looking at Vazkore, measuring his reaction quietly though he turns his attention again to the high priest and dips his head quietly.
Vazkor drops his gaze to the new swords that suddenly appear at his side... And after a moment, he reaches out both hands to slowly draw them out... Studying the blades as he reveals them and brings them up, seeming both a bit awed, and relieved. Looking past them that, at the priest, he dips into a slow bow, and states calmly "Thank you, sir... I will put them to good use."
The blades glitter with blue energy, it dances from hilt to tip and back again, sparkling and crackling and when he moves them through the air they leave after images of light. "Now you must depart if you are to catch the thief, chocbo's are being saddled for you from my stock. I think you will find they give you an edge to keep up and maybe even beat her to Baguba Port. I will also give you documents which should get you assistance from the Moogle Authorities"
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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