Community > The Cantina
The Skies have no Limit
macmacnick:
--Four Kilometers South of Thula, Northern Firnfeld, 11:30 PM--
“King Greger, that foolish King of the Fjord Baronies is onto us. Eliminate the loose end or you shall be eliminated.” The voice came from a figure with a peculiar silhouette, one which resembled a cloaked man who was twisted and mutated into a human-avian hybrid.A mercenary trembled, mentally debating, but grudgingly complied, partially out of fear, partially because he had no choice. “Yes, sir.” The mercenary replied. “The loose end is a militiaman from the nearby town of Thula, assigned to patrol the town’s boundaries. Ambush him, and eliminate him quietly, using this knife, guaranteed to kill quietly, then hide the body, so as to make it appear he got lost in a blizzard.”
The mercenary obliged, and headed up and outside through a hidden exit through a maze of tunnels in a nearby cave, with any wrong turn leading to certain death by means of concealed traps. The mercenary sneaked into Thula and then into the Militiaman's house, finding him asleep, and killed the man quietly. Fortunately for the mercenary, the man had no wife, but unfortunately, the Mercenary could not sneak the body out and then hide it in the snowdrifts, and as such had to leave him dead at the table he was sitting at, and left the knife used in the murder in the body.
"You failed me. Even a partial success is a failure. The loose end was eliminated, but now they have a new lead." The cloaked figure's anger was vividly apparent. "You shall be eliminated for being a liability." The figure whipped out a knife similar to the one used in the murder, and plunged it into the flesh in between the mercenary's ribs, and twisted. The mercenary let out a bloodcurdling scream, and then collapsed. Dead.
BdrLineAzn:
East of Northlake
The two Squids race along the skies over the mountainous and rugged terrain of the Baronies. Gentle snow clouds roll in from the northwest as flurries of snow start to drop. A traveling merchant would have stop and gaze at the sight of the falling snow, but not so much as the group onboard the two small vessels.
Gripping the helm, Melin has placed goggles over his eyes and a thick face guard to protect him from the wind and snow of his fast traveling ship. Around him, the three remaining crew members tie down any loose materials or keeping an eye out for potential enemies.
Turning to the radio besides him, Melin calls the second vessel.
(Melin)
"Frey, better batter down any loose items, I feel like this may turn into a blizzard soon."
(Frey)
"Copy that. If it does, are we still keeping our course?"
(Melin)
"Yes, stay on coarse. And besides, we have dealt with worse weather than a simple blizzard."
(Frey)
"That's because we had to fight in one. Remember when we were out on patrol 3 years back."
(Melin)
"Hey we survived. But the Squids can handle it. With the speed we are going, we should be exiting the borders in a few hours and halfway to Ulavaar by noon."
(Frey)
"Roger that. Frey, out."
Chang-ning, Imperial Barracks
After being dismissed by the Emperor last night before the ball, Chung and the rest of his detail return back to the main compound where all the Imperial Guards are trained and housed. This morning, he wakes up in bed having a slight feeling that something is off. Rising and changing into a fresh uniform, he exits the room and out of the Officer's Quarters.
Walking quickly along the training grounds, he gives quick salutes to his fellow Guardsmen as they pass him by. Some turn to look as to why the Lieutenant is in a hurry, but shrugs it off and continue along with their day. In a deep thought, Chung finds himself at the main office building and enters to go find his Commanding Officer.
Sitting in his room, Colonel Szeto is behind his desk looking over a newly arrived notice. A knock pulls him from his trance and looks at the silhouette behind the window.
(Szeto)
"Come in."
The door opens and in comes Chung who gives the Colonel a salute. Returning it, Szeto gestures to the chair in front on the desk. Chung complies and takes the seat.
(Szeto)
"What is the pleasure of this visit Liuetenant."
(Chung)
"Well Sir, and sorry if this comes out as unusual, but for some reason I have a feeling that something is amiss."
(Szeto)
"Hmm, go on."
(Chung)
"For starters, why hasn't I or any of the men under me have been called back to our post, or any of the other Guards here. It looks like none of us has been called back by the Emperor."
(Szeto)
"I can see your doubts. I was wondering as well why there hasn't been anyone at his Highness's residence or even with him in general. That is until I got this notice from the Tiger."
At the mention of the Tiger, Chung leans in as he listens about the notice.
(Szeto)
"It states that for the time being, the Imperial Guard will be cycled out with one of his companies in protecting his Highness. We are to continue working and training as usual. But given on how much free time to many of the Guardsmen, I'm giving liberty to all as a well assured break. So I suggest Lieutenant, just head out into the city and enjoy yourself a bit."
(Chung)
"Why yes sir. And thank you."
Chung stands from his seat and gives a salute to the Colonel. Szeto returns it and watches as Chung leaves the room and exits the building.
He returns back to his room and changes out from his uniform into more casual clothing. As he finishes putting on the clothes, he looks to himself in a mirror.
Wow, long time since I've been in civvies. Guess this will not get me noticed as I go and find what in the Gods is happening to the Emperor.
With one final look, he grabs a small bag and heads to the entrance and hails a carriage to bring him to the residential area near the Zhao Manor.
Vystorg, Zankief's Warehouse
With the morning meeting still freshen in people's minds, a good amount of workers head to the sub levels of the warehouse and prepare weapons for the worst. A few are on the actual floor of the warehouse going about the usual routine.
Working with them, BdrLine, Charles, and Courage help lift cargo onto several ships docked in the hanger. Watching from afar, Althea has a clipboard in hand and oversees which items go to what ships. Behind her, she hears a knocking from the door leading to the streets. Wondering who can it be and how none of the other workers seems to notice, she walks towards it and opens to see a familiar man.
(Althea)
"Yes, how can I help you. Need any cargo to be lifted or ships to be repaired."
Gryphos:
--Vyshtorg, outside Slava's guildhall--
The guildhall stands like a palace hidden amongst the crowded buildings, the only open area nearby being the courtyard in front. On the rooftop of a building bordering the courtyard are Gareth and Michael. Gareth looks through a spyglass, scanning the great guildhall.
Michael
"I thought we were only supposed to make a move on that Zankief guy's orders."
Gareth
"Hold your horses, I know. Just a bit of recon."
Gareth flicks the spyglass to a stronger setting and focuses on the grand open double doors.
Gareth
"Looks like there's just one way in."
Michael
"Yup, all the guildhalls are like that. One way in, one way out. Easier to guard from thieves."
Gareth
"Or Yeshans."
Michael
"If the Yeshans were stupid enough to attack openly, definitely. But I really don't think they're gonna go in guns-a-blazing. This is a covert operation. They'll be using stealth. Go in silently, kill the upper crust, supplant them quickly and subtly enough to avid open confrontation from the populace."
Gareth lowers the spyglass and looks at Michael.
Michael
"It's what I'd do."
Gareth
"Did the side of your brain get burned up with your face?"
Michael ignores that and points at the courtyard.
Michael
"Who's that?"
Gareth raises his spyglass again. In the courtyard a man in long flowing clothes and laden with jewellery walks out of the guildhall, flanked by a few servants and bodyguards.
Gareth
"I think that's the man himself, Slava. Where does he fit into this, do you think?"
Michael
"Well, if he was so paranoid about being spied on, I think he knows something."
Gareth
"You think he's with the Deer and Tiger?"
Michael
"It's not impossible."
--Courtyard--
Meanwhile, Lyre and Zardis are sitting on a bench by the courtyard's fountain. Lyre notices Slava exit the guildhall.
Lyre
"Who's that man. Looks important."
Zardis
"Slava. He practically runs Vyshtorg. His guildhall would be the most logical place to usurp the guild. And I have a sneaking suspicion he won't do that much to stop it."
Lyre
"What makes you say that?"
Zardis
"Slava has a certain reputation for being a bit closer to the Empire than most Merchants would approve of. And it's known that he's a personal friend of the Deer."
Both of them quickly shut their mouths as Slava passes within earshot, only continuing when he's away again.
Zardis
"In fact, the more I think about it, the more I'm certain he's in on it."
Lyre
"We need more to go on than that, though."
Zardis
"How about this. In a few days Slava's hosting a mass conference in his guildhall. Every worthwhile name in Vyshtorg will be present."
Lyre
"How do you know this?"
Zardis
"Just some snooping. Anyway, pay attention. The nature of the conference hasn't been stated, when it usually is in such cases. What an opportunity for the Yeshans to take out half the Guild's aristocracy."
Lyre
"Alright, so let me get this straight. We're going to be fighting Yeshans, to save the Guild, all the while one of the Guild's most powerful Merchants tries to stop us."
Zardis
"Don't say it won't be fun."
Yiski:
--Crimson Skies Saloon--
Despite all the excitement from Roland's near-kidnapping, life went on as it always has. Saloon opens, patrons roll in, work to be done, and drinking to be had. Under normal circumstances, a normal individual would be having panic attacks about yesterday. Then again, these individuals are not 'normal' under any sane definition.
The saloon began to settle down after the post-lunch rush. This allowed the owners and employees take a small and much needed breather.
[Hiro]
"Is it me, or does this just keep getting harder?"
[Roland]
"It does take some getting used to. I know I was exhausted when I started out."
[Hiro]
"How did you manage?"
[Yiski]
"Keeping his complaining to nothin'. I swear you kids don't have the stamina anymore."
The comment startled Hiro as he turned to see Yiski behind him. The surprise gained a chuckle from Roland.
[Roland]
"Father, I seriously doubt anyone had your stamina then, and now for that matter."
[Yiski]
"What? You tryin' to say I'm gettin' old?"
[Lauren]
"Yes he is dear."
Roland became a little flustered.
[Roland]
"Mo... Lauren! Ahem... anyways, I still need to stop by Zhao manor and see if they have any info on Ny's deployment."
Roland quickly turned and was about to leave, but not before Yiski grabbed Roland's arm, stopping Roland.
[Yiski]
"Woah now. Let's not forget what happened yesterday."
[Roland]
"Which is why I'm going on foot this time."
[Lauren]
"Honey, don't you think that puts you more at risk?"
[Yiski]
"Exactly. You're not headin' out without me lookin' over you."
[Roland]
"Do I not have... assistance?"
Roland made sure the last word was just spoken loud enough for Yiski to hear. Yiski nodded and whispered back.
[Yiski]
"You do, but they're last resort. Plus, you think I'll stand by knowin' you're in danger?"
Before Roland could answer, he motioned Yiski to take the conversation into the back out of the curious ears of patrons and employees.
[Roland]
"Am I to assume you'll be following me armed?"
[Yiski]
"Yep."
[Roland]
"You're going to carry Blood Bolt in the open?"
[Yiski]
"Nope. I'll be carrying these pieces on me."
Yiski unfastened his coat to show Roland two holsters underneath each arm, both holding revolvers. Yiski then refastened his coat.
[Yiski]
"Not a fan of one-handed guns, but these will do."
[Roland]
"Are they modified?"
[Yiski]
"Haven't got the chance yet. Now, you still goin' try to get me to stay or we headin' out?"
Roland sighed. He knew once his father made up his mind, very little would chance it. Roland nodded and started back out the main floor of the saloon. Roland gave a hug to Lauren, followed by a kiss from Yiski.
[Lauren]
"You two be careful now. The last thing I need are more grey hairs from you both."
Roland turned and gave a smile to Lauren before exiting. Without turning, Yiski just waved.
Next stop, Zhao manor.
Captain Lockheart:
--Over the Dust Coast--
Aboard the "Winter"
Lockheart: " How far are we from Dragon Town?"
*over the radio*
Phoenix: " About... erm.. maybe a 1 day voyage if we floor it, or we can spend 1 day getting to Cathedral and starting the Patrols there. Aaand that does save the risk of losing our Engines and 50% of our ships..."
Lockheart: " Well. I'm not a genius bu-"
Phoenix: " You got that right!"
Lockheart: " ...I'm no genius, but i say we start at Cathedral, what do you say Alexander?"
Alexander: I don't plan on losing all the time i put into arming these ships... Cathedral it is- *to a crewman aboard the "Crown's Justice"* oh, what?... Ah, thank you. *back to Lockheart and Phoenix* "Well, it seems like our long range radio is in range of Vyshtorg should we encounter trouble, but as we say, lets begin to plot course North towards Cathedral"
Lockheart: " Agreed. Report back to your radios at 10 hundred hours sharp for the Evening report"
Phoenix: "Whatever"
Alexander: " Aye Aye"
Lockheart Switches of his radio and Pulls his feet of his desk where they were resting. His chair falls forward.
The Captains cabin was lavishly decorated in Red carpet and walls with some Carved Wood Paneling. A Map Lay sprawled out upon the Captains desk along with a sextant and other navigating tools. Lockheart sighed, then got up from his chair and walked towards his drinks cabinet and grabbed a glass and a decanter of Whiskey. He took them out of his cabin to the main deck, where his crew were doing a multitude of things, from simple rigging maintenance to playing dice and cards with each-other. The Afternoon sun was still hot as the small fleet glided on over the endless dust below. He took the drinks up to the helm where his First mate Ryan Whitlock was stood at the helm, with Navigators Fadeshade and Ludvig Blucher Sat on the fence next to him. the three stood to attention.
Lockheart: " At ease gents. How fares the day?"
Ludvig: " Too quiet in my opinion."
Fadeshade leaned back against the mast at the rear of the "Winter".
Fadeshade: " Too Loud in mine.."
Ryan: "I'll give you a sensible opinion. Fine. Its just an average voyage, made even more mundane by the small talk of these two"
Ludvig gave Ryan a glare.
Ludvig: " Ha. That's all your getting, a singular Ha."
Fadeshade: " Still too much"
Lockheart: "Remind me again why i brought you all"
Ryan: " Because we are YOUR men, your true men, not bought with gold nor promises of land. Only loyalty and honor binds us-"
Fadeshade: " And a small hope at some land and gold."
Ryan: " Yes... Just a small hope"
Lockheart rolled his eyes.
Lockheart: " Anyway, i brought some Whiskey for you."
Fadeshade rose immediately and grabbed the whiskey and glasses and set them up on a table.
Fadeshade: " Anyone up for a bit of a competition?"
The men grinned and took places round the table, minutes turned to hours and the hours passed into the evening. The Whiskey bottle was empty. Along with others from Lockhearts cabinet.
Ludvig: " you know he wont like it"
Ryan: "precisely, go-on fade"
Fadeshade got up and took the bottle and walked over the the starboard side, stuck a finger out to measure the wind, then threw the bottle at "The Yeshan Dragon" It landed just by the helm. Faded shouting could be heard.
Phoenix: " YOU THINK THIS IS WISE, YOU COULD'VE KILLED ME YOU ARASHI SCUM, NEXT TIME WE DOCK I WILL SHOVE THESE SHARDS WHERE THE SUN DOSENT SHINE. WHY YOU..."
The rest was lost in the wind.
From below deck a bell started to ring.
Crewmember: " Captain! Captain!"
The crewman pounded up the steps.
Crewmember: " Sighting of a downed convoy sir!, Our Trade ships.... They lie on the floor.."
Lockheart was snapped out of his inebriated state and took the helm, and opened the radio. Although the first thing to greet him was Phoenix's Curses. He simply said " Were going down"
The 3 ships slowly descended towards the dusty floor... Lockheart and a small squad of men leaped down and started to walk towards the wreckage of the Ships.. Cargo lay strewn all over, crates smashed and their contents already becoming buried in the sands. The squad spent 2 hours searching the wrecks looking for survivors, and scavenging cargo. No survivors were found... No Corpses either only bloody spots on the ships. And the faintest of trails in the dust.
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