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The Skies have no Limit
BdrLineAzn:
Outskirts of Ulavaar
What has been calm, snowy weather hours ago, the blizzard rages on thought most of the Firnfeld region. Battered but unaffected by the growing storm, the two Squids continue their flight towards to Thula, just reaching the Ulavaar city's limits at an earlier time then expected.
Seeing the small skyline, Melin grabs the radio and tries to talk over the storm.
(Melin)
"Radio tower, can you hear me, I repeat can you hear me. This is Major Melin of the Baron Military, reporting in to the region's militia to investigate a sighting at Thula. Please respond."
Screeching of winds and the hard fall of snow continue around him as he waits for a message. Soon a faint and static reply come through but Melin can hear enough to understand the massage,
(Radio)
"...py Maj.... Continue with.. ou....cours.... Will relay bac.....Qinqaachi of.....presence....od luc....blizzard."
(Melin)
"Roger, out."
Turning a few dials, the second Squid is now on the line.
(Melin)
"Frey, we good to go. Start heading north."
No response comes through as Melin looks towards the second ship. On the deck he can see a swinging light acknowledging that Frey has heard the message.
Nodding, Melin turns the helm and race through the sleet.
Chang-ning, Upper Class Residential District
Getting dropped off at one of the district's local park, Chung pays the driver and starts walking toward the direction of Zhao Manor. He didn't opt for going all the way to the manor as it may raise suspicion plus he doesn't know who would be at the gates to greet him.
Finding the street that the manor is on, Chung pass a few gates leading up to different homes. Seeing the familiar entrance of the front gate, the first thing Chung notices is that it is not the usual manor security guards that are in the uniforms. Instead are completely different men standing guard at the gate house.
As Chung pass by the gate, he keeps his head down so that they wouldn't see his face if they recognised him. The people at the gate just eyes him as Chung moves along and thinks nothing of the man.
Rounding a corner, Chung takes a peak to see if he was followed. Sensing that he is in the clear, he runs his chin.
Must be some of the Tiger's men in those uniforms. So if they are watching the front, there maybe more on the compound and in the building. Something must have happened last night after the ball. I need a way in though.
Walking down the street that he is on now, another park comes to view. There is some more activity happening here then the previous one as there are people in lines behind different food trucks. Taking out his watch, Chung sees that it is eleven and that it is almost lunch. An idea pops into his head as he walks towards a truck where there is no line and the staff are getting prepared.
A cook sees him coming.
(Cook)
"We're not ready yet, come back about 15 minutes. We'll be good then."
(Chung)
"Actually I'm not here to order, but I know a group of people that would appreciate some food soon."
(Cook)
"hmm, how big is this group then."
(Chung)
"I would say up to fifty."
(Cook)
"Ok, I'll think about it. Where is it at anyway."
(Chung)
"Zhao Manor"
The cook gives Chung a surprise and skeptical look.
(Cook)
"The Zhaos. Where they have a full staff to wait on them. Yeah, very funny buddy, but I highly doubt that they have no food for a group that size."
Remembering the conversation between the Emperor and Shen about how once the ball was over, Shen will give the staff a few days off, Chung uses it to his advantage.
(Chung)
"Well I know they are understaffed at the moment."
(Cook)
"How do you know that."
(Chung)
"Well I work for them, so after the ball last night. Master Zhao gave the majority of the staff a few days off for the hard work. That included much of the kitchen. Come on, think about the money you will get from the people there."
Pondering if the offer was real or not, the cook turn to three others I. The truck.
(Cook)
"Hey guys, don't start cooking yet. We are going to a different location."
Satisfied that the cook bought the story, Chung ask the cook if he can ride with them to the manor. With a nod, Chung gets into the back when the vehicle starts and drive off the park.
Soon the truck finds itself at the front gate where the "guards" look at it with some confuse faces. Pulling up to the gate house, the cook rolls down the window to speak to one of them.
('Guard' 1)
"State your business."
(Cook)
"Well I've heard that there is a group of hungry people here and we are here to serve."
('Guard' 1)
"I don't think that is necessary, we are perfectly content here."
Besides the first "guard" another one pulls him to the side.
('Guard' 2)
"Come on let the guy in."
('Guard' 1)
"What! Why?"
('Guard' 2)
"Since we've been ordered to watch over this place by the Tiger, the only food we ate are some of that generic military crap. Let's get some real food."
('Guard' 1)
"But what if he snoops around."
('Guard' 2)
"Its a food truck, I highly doubt they know a thing of what's happening."
('Guard' 1)
"I guess so."
With the conversation over, the first guard turns to the gate switch and let's the truck in. Inside, the truck parks on the main driveway where dozens of men are waiting, having heard from the gate house.
As the "guards" are distracted, Chung exits the back of the truck and looks for a way in.
BdrLineAzn:
Firnfeld, Thula
The blizzard is still raging as the Squids sight the northern city. As they approach the docks, Melin notice a small group of lights near a few empty berths. Taking a closer look, he sees that it is a group of militiamen from the city waving their lanterns to the ships.
Taking the radio in hand, Melin calls to Frey.
(Melin)
"Frey, looks like we found a welcoming party. Prepare to land."
Nearing the empty berths, the group on the docks split up to help quicken the pace on strapping down the Squids. The wind continues to howl as it batters the airships. Ropes are thrown as the crew and those on the ground tie down the military ships.
Shutting off the engines and retrieving their weapons and personal bags, both crews disembark their respective ships to meet the militiamen. A man with what looks like a gold bar on the cover that he is wearing approach the Barons. Giving a quick salute, he turns to Melin.
(Nuk)
"Major, my name is Lieutenant Nuk. We got word that you should be arriving soon, and with the blizzard going, we were dispatch to help land and bring you to your quarters on base."
(Melin)
"Why thank you Lieutenant. And speaking of blizzards, mind we get out of this one?"
(Nuk)
"Why of course. If you can follow me. Once you and your men are settled, I'll take you to the Commander regarding the sighting."
Trudging through the ankle high snow, the large group follows Nuk to the militia base.
Chang-ning, Central Headquaters
After leaving the Zhao Manor yesterday, the Tiger, and Deer are preparing to board the Tiger's personal Galleon. Flanked on either side are two Imperial Junkers ready for take off.
On the Galleon, the Tiger goes to his cabin and turns on the radio.
(Tiger)
"Captain Zhao, status on the mission."
A few minutes of silence can be head until Ny-Lee's voice comes through.
(Ny-Lee)
"Tiger sir, didn't know you would check in with us. The fleet has just pass Landmark and soon we'll be entering Guild territory."
(Tiger)
"Good, good, now to ensure that this plan goes smoothly, there is a slight change of plans. The Deer and I will be traveling to the Guild Capital to meet with one of the guild masters, so you you will be not meeting with him. But you will still lead the attack, and to keep your loyalty on my side, I have your family and a few others hostage."
(Ny-Lee)
"What?!?"
(Tiger)
"Oh don't think I have keep an eye on you and your family. And now I know of the secret radio transmissions and that you have beforehand knowledge of this plot. So if you don't comply and follow my orders, well let's say it doesn't end well for all of you. Now once you reach the capital, hold until we arrive."
Before she can reply back, the Tiger ends the line and exits his cabin to the bridge. He then mentions to the helms man to depart. Soon the three ships rise and put there engines of full power to catch up with the fleet.
Anvala, Burning Skies Saloon
Sitting at one of the tables, the three: Tommy, Allen, and John drink a few mugs as they wait for the afternoon rush to come by. Not much has happened earlier in the morning except a handful of people coming, and the three takes this time enjoy before the coming chaos.
(Tommy)
"Ahh, why can't work in the saloon be like this? All calm and not that many people to serve."
(Allen)
"Well we had three pair of hands to help us out and that currently they are out on another sort of crazy adventure."
(John)
"Oh how I wish that I can go out and see what they are up too."
(Tommy)
"Oh I've have experienced a part of it when I was at Cathedral. No fun."
(Allen)
"Well look at the time, almost one. We should get ready."
(John)
"Arggh, why can't we hire more people? Besides here, there is also Bdr's docks. We re undermanned and over worked."
(Tommy)
"Hmm, since I don't know when they are coming back, I don't think it will hurt to hire some more help around here. I mean we have some ownership of the place as well. I'll put a notice out tomorrow"
(John)
"Good, gonna need a rest."
Clearing their table, the three starts to set the bar and unlock the door for afternoon, waiting for the rush.
Yiski:
--Chang-ning, En route to Zhao Manor--
As Roland walked openly down the street, Yiski did his best to walk along the edges. While Roland was wearing his normal clothing, Yiski wore a dark brown cloak with a hood over his head. While Yiski's attire should have drawn some attention, he was not the only one wearing a cloak. Sandstorms and duststorms were common during this time of year, making it common for visitors and residents alike to wear some protection (though all the sand and dust being tracked in made it a nightmare for the city's cleaning crews).
As Roland walked, he thought back on his attempted kidnapping and the conversation between the man and Yiski.
Why are the Birdmen still active?
Rather... how do they still exist?
If they're still around, then...
Then Ny-Lee is in danger!
But... what can I do?
As he thought more, the questions got more complicated and complex. Before getting any deeper, Roland mentally shook his mind loose.
I'm sure things will be fine. I just need to get to manor first.
After a good, long walk, Roland found himself in view of Zhao manor. As Roland got closer, he saw things which did not seem right. Before Roland had a chance to figure those out, a hand reached over, grabbed Roland, and pulled him to the side.
[Roland]
"Gah! Please do not surprise me like that!"
[Yiski]
"Sorry, but you looked like you we're spacin' out on me and this doesn't look right."
[Roland]
"Odd. I got the same feeling too."
[Yiski]
"Hold here a minute. Gonna do some quick spottin'."
Yiski ventured out into the middle of the street which runs along the front gate of Zhao manor. Despite all the people passing by, Yiski got a few good looks of the manor grounds. Consequently, the manor's entrance sat farther back and was obstructed by numerous trees. Satisfied with the initial view, Yiski went back.
[Roland]
"What's going on?"
[Yiski]
"There's a few armed men roamin' the yard and a few others just watchin' the main gate."
[Roland]
"Are they city guards?"
[Yiski]
"Based on the uniforms, pretty sure those are royal guards."
[Roland]
"Why would royal guards be patrolling the manor?"
[Yiski]
"No clue, but the ones I did see were armed to the teeth."
[Roland]
"Well, it would make sense if the Emperor were inside."
[Yiski]
"Dunno. Something still feels off."
[Roland]
"I could just walk up and ask for entry. After all, I am family."
Yiski gave Roland a hard look. Yiski almost lost Roland once this week. And based on his gut feeling, Yiski knew that idea would not end well.
[Yiski]
"Or we could sneak in."
[Roland]
"Do you think that's necessary?"
[Yiski]
"Better safe than sorry. Now, you wouldn't happen to know of any secret entrances to the manor, would ya?"
[Roland]
"Not that I have been told."
[Yiski]
"Damn.... well, let's try and get around back."
[Roland]
"Alright."
BdrLineAzn:
Chang-ning, Zhao Manor
Locked in the ballroom of their very house and under watch from the Tiger's men, the Zhao's sits together with the Emperor and his wife at one of the tables use during the ball. Scattered among the remaining tables are the manor's staff as they worry about the predicament they are in. The worried tones can be heard as Shen looks around the room.
(Shen)
"What are we todo... Fang has us in a corner."
(Xi)
"I knew I should have acted earlier, now we are all in danger."
One of the doors suddenly open and everyone in the room turns to find two guards rolling in a large cart.
(Guard)
"Alright chow time. Don't even know why we are feeding you all, bunch of traitors to Empire. Especially you, your Majesty"
(Huan)
"Is that the way to treat your own Emperor! Just locking him up is treasonous."
(Xi)
*Turns to Huan* "It's alright my boy.
*To the Guard* "Just know that you, the Tiger, and all the rest affiliated with him will get what you all deserve."
(Guard)
"Hahahahaha, if that will even happen. Currently you are in here while our plan is in motion. So good day."
The Guard and his partner exits the room as the first guard continues to laugh.
As the guards walks away from the ballroom, creeping along the many halls of the manor is Chung. After sneaking out of the truck he came on earlier, Chung manages to sneaks pass the many guards as they are distracted by the food truck. He walks trough the front door and starts his search and investigation.
As he roams the manor, he spots the two guards who delivered the food to the ballroom. Chung quickly hides behind a corner and watches as the two guards pass by.
They came from the direction of the ballroom. Hmm with the lack of the actually staff and the space that room provides, they maybe all in there.
Listening to the fading footsteps of the guards, Chung rounds the corner once he feels the hallway is clear. Nearing the main entrance to the ballroom, Chung slows his pace and spots two more men standing guard by the door.
Damn, I should have know it wouldn't be this easy to walk on through. How to distract them...
Quietly, he removes his pack and opens it. Rummaging through the small bag, Chung pulls out a pistol and a magazine full with tranquilliser darts. Loading the and cocking the weapon, Chung moves from his hiding spot and rushes the two.
(Guards)
"What the..?"
"The Gods?"
As they were about to raise their rifles, Chung quickly empties the clip and spread the darts between them. The men drop like dead weights as the darts take effect.
Inside the ballroom, nothing much changed since they brought in food, only a few got up and served themselves. Suddenly everyone hear thuds outside the door. Stopping what they were currently doing, the
Are group watch as the door open with Chung standing under the doorframe.
(Xi)
"Ah Lieutenant, I'm glad to see you."
(Chung)
"Much wise Sir. But I don't think formalities are important at the moment. If they are keeping a schedule on watches, the next one will be coming in the next half hour. We need to get out of here now."
(Jinu)
"The only exit is through the main gate, and I doubt with the amount of guards here we will all get out unspotted."
(Shen)
"Well not exactly."
(Jinu)
"Excuse me Mr. Zhao?"
(Chung)
"Mr. Zhao, are there other routes out of here?"
(Shen)
"Yes, there is a room leading to an underground tunnel in my study next to the radio room. I had it built a long time ago if there was an emergency where we need to run. I'm guessing this is a good time to use it."
(Chung)
"This is a very good time to use it, Mr. Zhao lead the way I'll try to cover you."
Picking up the weapons from the unconscious guards, Chung hands one of the rifles and the pistols to the security staff. With Shen leading the way, Chung stands by the ballroom doorway watching for any movement as they exit the room. With the last one out, Chung follows the rear of the group.
Arriving to Shen's study, he goes over to his desk and opens a box that sits on top. Pressing a hidden button, a wall slides open showing a ladder leading down.
(Shen)
"Okay just go down the ladder and follow the tunnel, it will lead you to a garage with several vehicles. Take them and go back to your families and stay low."
An alarm somewhere on the property rings and shouts can be heard outside.
(Shen)
"GO NOW!"
One by one they climb down the ladder and into the tunnel. Running the straight path, the large group spots the vehicles and start to fill them. In one of the carriages, Chung helps the Emperor and his wife in to the vehicle. Entering the same carriage, Shen and his family joins Xi. Chung is about to question Shen, but is cut off.
(Shen)
"Lieutenant, takes us to the Imperial Barracks. It will be the safest place for all of us at the moment and rally the rest of the Imperial Guards."
(Chung)
"On it."
Going to the drivers side, Chung starts the engine and pulls out onto the road. Quickly he drives to the Imperial Barracks as back in the manor chaos ensues.
Piemanlives:
-- Vystorg, Zankief's Warehouse--
Althea
"Yes, how can I help you. Need any cargo to be lifted or ships to be repaired."
Richard hadn't been expecting her, though he didn't really know her, he'd seen her hang about the inn. Regaining his composure, he took a brief look at the warehouse from the doorway. A few workers were milling about, loading boxes and crates, a couple sat on top of their completed loads and shared a drink between them. There was an air of apprehension about the place though, as if they were expecting something.
Richard
"I suppose you can actually, mind if I step in for a second?"
--Vyshtorg, High Residential--
Alex followed the Guildsman, acting nonchalant about the fact he was obviously following them, a few of them would look back at him nervously, eying his weapons carried on his belt, it was times like this he wished he had invested in a rifle but that wasn't the issue at hand here. They hadn't stayed in the study for long, apparently the guildsman hosting the party seemed to want some semblance of privacy and led them deeper into his manor. Soon the leader of the group had them clustered around an ornate doorway, opening the door he invited his fellows inside, all the while eying Alex suspiciously. He merely saluted him and took a position at the door, this seemed to put the other man off balance a little bit and quickly shut the door behind him.
Alex
"Well it was worth a shot."
Alex sighed, there was a bench across from the door and he decided if he was going to stay he should probably have a place to rest for the time being. Sitting down he waited for the men inside to finish their business, however as he waited a young man entered from his right.
Man
"Excuse me, I'm looking Guildsman Romanov, is he in there."
Alex
"He's in there, do you have business with him?"
Man
"Message just arrived for him."
Alex eyed him for a moment, for him this was a perfect reason for him to enter the chamber, even if he couldn't get anything meaningful from the attempt.
Alex
"I'll make sure he receives it."
Man
"Sir, I'm supposed to verify he receives it."
Alex
"And I can't let you enter that room."
Man
"And you're a guarding the outside, did they not let you into the room?"
Alex
"Can't very well prevent someone from coming in from the inside can you?"
The messenger sighed. He looked down at the envelope he was holding and back to him.
Man
"Very well, take it."
He passed him the envelope and left. Alex looked down on it for a moment, wondering what the message could be. Deciding against from opening it he walked over to the doorway, held in a breath and knocked on the door.
--Somewhere in Vyshtorg--
Lorena was still at a loss to do, Dahlia was still asleep, whoever owned the house was nowhere to be seen, and she still couldn't find what happened to her clothing. Sighing she stood from the window overlooking the street below. She looked at Dahlia who was laying comfortably in bed, she shook her awake, needing someone to talk to, the silence was beginning to drive her mad. She stirred and slowly sat up as she rubbed herself awake.
Dahlia
"Mmm... What? Where are we?"
Lorena sighed.
Lorena
"I was hoping you would know."
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