SilvanoshiS
Apprentice
flightless and loving it
Posts: 143
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Post by SilvanoshiS on Feb 18, 2006 15:57:26 GMT -5
((OOC: Gah, I'm on the road for 1 day and you all go wild... I'll write when I can, but it may not be till tomorrow night.))
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Feb 18, 2006 19:06:52 GMT -5
“No, Mirin. You could never know. You may know the situation, but you'll never know how it feels. How I[/b] feel. And it is something that should never and can never be shared. I have received no love from my father, and have come to learn not to expect it.”
With both hands he reached up and brushed her tears away. His hands stayed on the sides of her face. “Be patient with me, Mirin. All this is till new, and it frightens me sometimes. Just be patient, please.” He leaned forward and touched her lips with his own. It was feather-light and hesitant, but it was a first step.
He pulled back when he heard footstpes approaching the large clearing. The hunting party was returning, and Kegato's stomach growled. He stepped past Mirin to the sleeping pallet and picked up his jerkin and coat.
“Mirin!” he called out and she turned. He was buttoning his jerkin while watching her, intensely. “Apparently you've been Seeing my life. If you can figure out a way to block this new ability, I strongly urge it.” A confused look crossed her Mirin's face. Kegato shrugged on his jacket. “Otherwise you will see what you do not wish to see. Then you truly will understand my pain, and you may come to hate me.” [/color]
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sil
Junior Scholar
Leader of one, Lover of Music, Liver of Life
Posts: 202
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Post by sil on Feb 18, 2006 20:07:34 GMT -5
Mirin sighed. Well I would put a stopper to them, if I knew how I was doing it. She thought to herself, but she had one thing on her side. Their first kiss. Well, okay not really their first one, but the first he had given her.
Alright. baby steps it is. she continued to think. lets try with holding hands she walked up to stand abreast with Kegato, and took his hand in hers. He returned the gesture with a slight squeeze.
The squeeze brought a memory to the forfront of Mirin's mind. She was standing with her parents, on the top of the hill above the capital city. Her older brother was still there, it must have been a long time ago.
Mirin was picked up and sat on her father's shoulders.
"This Mirin, will be your Kingdom. All you see before you, and beyond will be your gift, and your burden. Too share with your brother, of course."
Mirin had turned to her mother and asked, "Why is it a burden momma?"
Her mother had then snatched her from her father's shoulders and held her in her arms.
"Because, my rose haired daughter, it is the duty of a ruler to watch over her kingdom, and to take responsibility for her actions to it." Mirin had smiled up at her mother and squirmed for release.
Mirin came back to the present with a gasp. She turned to Kegato, his eyes were wide, and they were misted.
Uhoh, Mirin thought, and released her grip on Kegato's hand. But he didn't release his hand from her's.
"I had no idea." Kegato said. He turned misty eyes unto her. "I never knew that parents could act that way. That they could love their children."
Mirin gulped. "Did...you...see that memory." Kegato only nodded. My new powers have more depth to them then I first thought. Or maybe... it's the Ring. Mirin suddenly realized what was happening to them. The Ring had relized that the two it had chosen had not immediatly hit it off, and so had tried to share enough of the others lives with each other to change their minds.
Mirin immediatly jerked her hand away from Kegato's, and did something she had not done since her mother had given her the ring on her 50th birthday. She took off the Ring and shoved it into her belt pouch.
She grabbed Kegato's hand again, nothing happened. She sighed.
"That's better," she said. "we won't share each other's memories anymore." They turned to face the awaiting Kiva and her clanmates, eager to eat.
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aric
demi-admin
I drink your milkshake!
Posts: 989
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Post by aric on Feb 18, 2006 22:18:55 GMT -5
((OOC: Hey Kiva, would it be possible to hold off on Ryka's section? I actually like the idea of them liking each other in that way. I just wanted to present something a little more intimate. You don't have to modify your post now, but I thought we ought to see which way was better. I can delete whatever I have if you don't like it. I just started writing last night, but I didn't get to post it yet. It might border a bit on the risque - at least for this board, but it won't be anything naughty.
((OOC: Better yet, let me PM the section to you and see if you like it. If you do, I can Jimmy it into my last post on page 3 so that it'll stand up to continuity better. I'll get it in to you later.))
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Feb 20, 2006 17:35:59 GMT -5
(OOC: This post was rushed, but I wanted to get to the good part quickly. Feel free to add details where you think neccessary.)
Ryka slept fitfully. She could always tell when she was feeling somewhat normal simply from the fact that she slept terribly. She was sensitive to every sound that occurred, even if it had nothing to do with her general location. She could never explain the reson for this, only that it happened. It was the first time she had slept so horribly in 2 years. Since the day Lian was taken from her...
Ryka sat up and stretched. She saw that Azonthus had already packed up and left the room. Ryka also got her stuff together and dressed quickly. Tianni had taken her old clothes to be washed and repaired and left Ryka with a beautiful lilac purple blouse and navy blue leggings.
Downstairs, DJ and Az were both eating breakfast when Ryka came down. Zach whistled upon seeing her and Tianni smacked him upside the head. Blushing, Ryka sat down next to DJ and smiled. With his mouth full of food, he offered her some. She could see that it was a fish dish and her mouth watered madly. She devoured her portion in only three bites. Zach laughed.
“Looks like she'll match your appetite any day of the week, DJ!” DJ snorted and feigned being insulted. Ryka flushed in embarassment and politely refused a second helping. But DJ could see that she was still hungry.
“Oh well,” he said with a wink, “Guess we'll pack it with us as a snack.”
A little while later, the group met up with the convoy and headed out. They were making good time and would no doubt reach the Basin by nightfall. Ryka was sitting next to DJ on the seat, nervously twisting the hem of her blouse in her hands. It was still unnerving to be sitting on such a massive creature as this Brachiosaur, but DJ had assured her that SkyHigh had made many trips into the Basin before and was quite gentle. Also, the fact that Kegato was getting closer with every step kept her edgy as well.
She started violently as something grabbed her hand, but DJ's voice soothed her.
“Easy there, Ryka. You'll wrinkle your shirt if you keep that up,” he said, holding her hand.
“I'm sorry, it just... I can't help but feel nervous is all,” she replied, giving his hand a squeeze. She smoothed out her rumpled blouse with her other hand. “I'll try not to be so edgy.” Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and leaned back against the seat, forcing herself to relax.
She must have dozed off for quite some time, because DJ woke her some time later stating they had just crossed something called a “Vertebral Drawbridge” and were now in the Rainy Basin. The sun was just starting to set, and Ryka's senses instantly perked up as she saw, listened, and smelled the land around her. This place had an untamed smell to it, and it stirred her more feline-esque instincts within her. She was ready for the hunt.
Azonthus called out that she had picked up a faint scent. One that smelled of a Nekonian presence. The convoy follwed a fresh trail down a more unknown area of the Basin. Az told them that this territory was controlled by a large and powerful clan of Giganotosaurs.
DJ gulped slightly. “Are we going to meet any of them?”
Az blinked thoughtfully. “My Clan lives too far away to make it there safely before nightfall. However, if I'm not mistaken, the Quickstrike Clan has a member who's a good friend of mine. Kiva Stoutheart was an Ambassador from the Basin for several years. She's worked tirelessly to promote some measure of guarded peace between ruling clans within the Basin, and keeping good terms with the Basin's residents and the rest of the Island as well. Although there are still some unfortunate incidences, Kiva has seen to it that many attacks on the convoys in the Basin have decreased quite a bit. If we are to stay anywhere, I think it should be there.”
As Azothus finished these words a tone sounded from just ahead. Instantly, everyone recognized the ethereal sound as a Fragment Tone. The deep, richness Ryka recognized as the Life Fragment. From it's hiding place on her person, her Fire Fragment answered and very near was another. Ryka hissed and leapt from her perch atop the Brachiosaur and sprinted off through the trees with a speed that even Az would have trouble matching.
“Ryka! Wait!” DJ called out, but she did not stop. She had to get there first. She had to find the Fragment before he[/b] did. (OOC: Hmm... I wonder which “he” she's thinking about...?)
---,--'--(@
Now that the mystery of the dreams was solved, Kegato breathed a sigh of relief. If Mirin had continued to have these visions, she would no doubt have seen...
He was snapped back to reality as Kiva gave him some fish she'd caught on the hunting trip last night. She also apologized and said that her parents were detained and would not return until the evening. Kiva could not allow the two to leave until they had permission from her parents to be there.
During that time, Kiva spoke of her life here in the Basin, and answered the questions they posed her. Kiva also spent time teaching them a little of the Theropod language, although Kegato had an easier time of it than Mirin for the fact that he was built for a growling language. His own species sometimes still communicated in this old-fashioned manner of speech on occasion, but not often. They told her of their quest, Kegato omitting any information about Ryka or her companions. She asked to see this artifact, and he warily showed her. Inspecting the artifact close up, Kiva made an announcement that surprised them all.
“I've seen this symbol before.”
Kegato's ears shot straight up. “Where?!”
She was thoughtful as she replied. “During my travels, in a cave, on a massive door I mistook for a wall. This symbol and four others, more triangular in shape, though. On the door was an inscription, but I couldn't understand it.”
Mirin chimed in. “Is this door nearby? Can you take us there?”
But Kiva was still thinking of something else. “I wonder if this this is one of those Fragments.” As she thought aloud, her fingernail tapped against the Life Fragment, and its Tone was activated. Kiva dropped it, but Kegato caught it before it fell. They heard the answering Tones, and Kegato growled. He had jumped up and unsheathed his Katana, holding it ready, and dropping into a defensive stance. Kiva was surprised at the sight of his weapon and backed off toward her clan members, grunting a rumbling softly to them.
Mirin stood as well, drawing as close to Kegato as she dared. “What is it?” she whispered, but Kegato hushed her. His delicate ears picked up the sound of something flying through the air. A Shuriken was heading their way. But it wasn't aimed at Kegato, it was heading for Mirin. Remembering her weakness, Kegato flung his arm up to shield her face from the lethal projectile. When a blaze of pain shuddered down his arm, he realized that his arm guards had been left in Waterfall City along with the rest of his armor.
Momentarily distracted, he hissed in pain and quickly yanked the spiked, circular blade from the underside of his arm. As his guard dropped, something collided into him with a roar and flung him back.
He maintained his grip on his Katana and scrambled back to his feet. His face stung and lifting a hand he touched his cheek. His cheek had been clawed, leaving four slash marks marring his visage. Ryka smirked, her two bladed battle fans held ready. Kegato resumed his defensive stance and stood ready, too, blood dripping from his arm and cheek.
He saw Mirin raise her right hand. “No Mirin! Do not interfere. This matter does not concern you and must be resolved between us.” Mirin's mouth opened in protest. “I said no!” his commanding voice rang out; “Please, if your feelings for me are as strong as you say they are, then respect my wishes.”
Ryka hissed, and Kegato's attention returned to her. The two warriors squared off in deadly combat.
(OOC: I know the temptaion to write the fight scene will prove too much for some of you; so if it is, all I ask is that you leave the climax of the fight to me. I'd do it myself, but then I'd be too much of a control freak, plus it'd take me 'til 8:00 tonight to write. *shudders* Enjoy!)[/color]
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sil
Junior Scholar
Leader of one, Lover of Music, Liver of Life
Posts: 202
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Post by sil on Feb 20, 2006 18:47:17 GMT -5
Mirin's eyes grew wide as she felt Kegato's warm blood land on her face. No, she thought I can't let this happen.
She rose her right hand (props for remembering which hand Kiva), and heard Kegato's voice cut through her growing battle rage like butter.
“No Mirin! Do not interfere. This matter does not concern you and must be resolved between us.” Mirin's mouth opened in protest. “I said no!” Mirin dropped her hand reluctantly. “Please, if your feelings for me are as strong as you say they are, then respect my wishes.”
Mirin sighed, her left hand twitching at the sight of Kegato's blood dripping freely on the ground. His handsome face marred by the claw marks. It was too much.
Mirin's eye's began to glow with the anger she fought to restrain. She watched as Kegato and Ryka stalked in a small circle, sizing each other up. If occorances had been different, Mirin would have asked Ryka how she made those fans, they would suit female Sidhe Nobles quite well for formal weapons. Functioning yet stylish.
Ryka and Kegato continued circling, looking for weak points to target.
"So Kegato, still letting that girl follow you like a lost puppy. Maybe you should tell her about what you've done back home..."
Kegato snarled at Ryka's taunt.
"Oh, touchy subject, Kegato? I've never known you to refuse praise when praise is do." The way Ryka said praise to Mirin's ears made it seem like it could be anything but.
"Kegato," Mirin cried. "Don't fall for her taunts, she only wishes to blind you with anger." Like I've been letting myself do far to often lately.
Her mother's voice returned to Mirin's mind like a buzzing mosquito. Remember your training. Relax and stay calm, Mirin.
I will mother. Mirin promised and took a calming breath.
Before Mirin could turn her attention to the fight at hand, another figure burst through the under-growth.
"Ryka!" He called, momentarily distracting Ryka from the task at hand. Kegato took the moment to close tha gap.
The sound of clashing metal rung on the air as Katana met the blades on Ryka's fans. With force, Ryka pushed the Katana back and resumed a ready position.
Mirin and DJ stood on opposite sides of the improvised battle field, neither joining the fray. One because she wouldn't and the other because he couldn't.
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aric
demi-admin
I drink your milkshake!
Posts: 989
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Post by aric on Feb 20, 2006 21:42:30 GMT -5
((OOC: BTW for those of you who don't know, I added more to my last post on the previous page. It explores more of the relationship between Ryka and DJ. It also sets up the make up of the convoy and the thing with Magnus. It'll help to explain who Ryka was thinking of when she thought she didn't want the fragment falling into "his" hands.))
DJ arose just before dawn broke. He had slept well. After the bath with Ryka, they ate a dinner that consisted of smoked fish, couscous, and vegetables. Ryka hadn't eaten in days, so DJ was a little surprised to see her wolf down her meal so quickly. After dinner, he had talked a bit with Ryka before she had to turn in. Then he went to work on his armor, using a pair of pliers to undo the rings holding the damaged scales. He decided that there wasn't any time to take the armor to a smithy.
After dressing in a plum colored shirt and red Zouave baggy pants, he crept up to Ryka’s door and opened it. He peered inside and saw her resting form on the bed. Her sleep cycle was erratic due to the short days of this world. DJ decided against waking her right now.
He went down to have some breakfast. Azonthus was already in the dining area talking with Tianni. They both greeted him when they saw him.
In the middle of breakfast, Ryka finally awoke and had some breakfast. A courier had come by to inform DJ that the convoy was already setup on the eastern bank of the Polongo. DJ went back to his room upstairs and took off his shirt. He slipped into his scale armor shirt. It lay lightly on the short undertunic he wore. He then put his plum-colored shirt on again. The group hurriedly packed some more breakfast for later and made their way out to the docks after saying their goodbyes to Zach and Tianni.
The ferry dropped them off on the bank where they saw a magnificent brachiosaur in full plate regalia. The armor looked deceptively heavy, though DJ knew it to be quite light considering the amount of metal SkyHigh was carrying. The real burden lay in the carriage. That was where both the smoked fish tribute and other supplies were stored. Not to mention that was where all the unarmed passengers would sit.
After stowing their things on sidesaddles dangling from the sides of the carriage alongside SkyHigh’s flanks, they were just about to board and leave when the convoy leader informed them that they had additional support from the Waterfall City council. Out of the foliage, two styracosaurs lumbered out. On their backs were carriages holding two men each. One of them signaled to DJ. Ryka glanced at DJ. The soldiers, she thought. He was thinking the same thing too, though he still had to meet with the leader of the team.
DJ walked over to the styracosaur that apparently held the team leader. Looking at the way they dressed, he surmised that they were probably scouts. Undoubtedly, they had fine scale or mail armor underneath their shirts and tunics – perhaps even mail leggings under their pants, though that might be too cumbersome for their role as scouts. It was possible that the vests on two of them were even brigandine. Their weapons would probably be the short composite bow for the trip with long swords and bucklers for melee combat should it ever come to that with Kegato. If it were just Kegato, these men were more than a match. Of course, he didn’t know of Mirin’s intentions or her capabilities. He hoped that the woman would not get involved and possibly be hurt in any encounter.
The leader hopped down from the rope ladder dangling from the side of the carriage. He carried himself with an almost animal grace, like a panther. DJ looked way back at Ryka to see that she noticed it too. The leader spoke up first. “I am sergeant Ryu Schweitzer. Magnus has attached us to the convoy for your protection. As per your request, we have brought your buckler and scimitar from the armory.”
“Thank you,” DJ replied. He thought he might need them, though he hardly practiced with them at all. He doubted he would be of any use in a fight. “How far have you been ordered to come with us into the Basin?”
“Until you have found the key fragment.”
Magnus intends to get this piece as well, DJ thought. He simply nodded absentmindedly. “Good. We’re going to need the protection. Kegato is extremely dangerous. From what I can tell, he seems to be a student of a form of martial arts that’s almost exactly like that found in the Far Eastern nation of Japan. His primary weapons are slashing swords, though he might also have thrusting knives. Perhaps even a bow I am not aware of. If his culture is in any way analogous to that of the Japanese samurai, then he’ll be unlikely to be familiar with combat against shielded opponents; or in your cases, opponents with bucklers.”
“I’ll be the judge of that,” Schweitzer said tersely. “Even one who has not come up against shields before may be able to counter them if the warrior is talented or experienced enough. Just leave the fighting to us should it ever come to that. We have your sword and buckler wrapped up with the rest of our gear in the trunks of our carriages. We’ll give it to you once we’re in the Basin. We cannot risk having them being discovered by civilians or by convoy members before we’re in any sort of danger. Don’t get in our way if fighting does break out.”
DJ frowned at Schweitzer’s attitude. He had expected a little more deference, but then Schweitzer was a soldier. Before DJ turned around, Schweitzer spoke up again. “Oh, and you have company.” He motioned behind himself where DJ looked. Out of the foliage, Silvano stepped out. Like the brachiosaur, he was outfitted in full plate armor. DJ recognized it as tournament aerial jousting armor.
Silvano said, “Greetings, my friend. I’m happy to inform you that I, with some minor help from Magnus’ aids, have uncovered some scrolls about a possible gate here in Dinotopia.”
DJ nodded. “That’s great. Did you find it necessary to dress up in armor just to deliver that message?”
Silvano blinked. “Why no! I dressed up so that I could come with you!” His beak clapped shut then opened ajar, slightly – the Skybax equivalent of a grin.
DJ shook his head. “No, it’s too dangerous. I don’t want you in carnivore country.”
Silvano was about to reply when Schweitzer cut in. “Mr. Applejack, we have very little time. If the librarian wants to go so be it. There’s no time to spare for arguments.” Schweitzer looked at Silvano. “Stay out of trouble.”
With that, the sergeant turned back to his styracosaur mount. Silvano squawked at his rudeness. DJ shook his head. They both walked back to the brachiosaur. DJ took Ryka aside to talk.
“You know who they are?” DJ asked referring to the soldiers.
Ryka nodded. “It was fairly obvious from our conversation last night. I gather from your displeased face that they’re on orders to follow us regardless of whether we stay with the convoy or not.”
DJ nodded his head. “It seems that they’re very intent on us finding that key fragment.”
“I’ll think of a way to deal with them,” she said. “For now, keep them out of my way.”
DJ was thinking of speaking up, but thought against it. He didn’t think she wanted to hear any sort of defense of the soldiers now that she knew they were after the piece in the Basin as well.
Ryka walked up to the great sauropod, but was hesitant to get on. It was such a large beast, one that had no counterpart back in her world. DJ walked behind her and put his hand at the small of her back. “Come on,” he said. “Let’s get going.”
She smiled and went up the rope ladder. DJ and Azonthus followed. Silvano was too big for the seats, so he simply roosted on the gigantic trunk holding the fish tribute.
The convoy moved out toward the vertebral drawbridge that connected the Basin with civilization. They were making good time and would probably be in the Basin by nightfall. Ryka was sitting next to DJ on the seat, nervously twisting the hem of her blouse in her hands. It was still unnerving to be sitting on such a massive creature as this Brachiosaur, but DJ had assured her that SkyHigh had made many trips into the Basin before and was quite gentle. Also, the fact that Kegato was getting closer with every step kept her edgy as well.
She started violently as something grabbed her hand, but DJ's voice soothed her.
“Easy there, Ryka. You'll wrinkle your shirt if you keep that up,” he said, holding her hand.
“I'm sorry, it just... I can't help but feel nervous is all,” she replied, giving his hand a squeeze. She smoothed out her rumpled blouse with her other hand. “I'll try not to be so edgy.” Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and leaned back against the seat, forcing herself to relax.
She began to doze off, a consequence of the disorienting day cycle of this world. DJ wondered whether he should run over to the styracosaurs and see if there was at least a mail shirt that Ryka could wear to protect herself as well as something for Azonthus. Not to mention retrieving his buckler and scimitar. Now that they were nearing the Basin – and Kegato – he didn’t want to go in without at least some sort of defense other than his scale shirt. He decided against it since he figured that it would be a while before they bumped into Kegato.
DJ woke Ryka just after they crossed the vertebral drawbridge. They were now in the Rainy Basin. The sun was just starting to set, and Ryka's senses instantly perked up as she saw, listened, and smelled the land around her. This place had an untamed smell to it, and it stirred her more feline-esque instincts within her. She was ready for the hunt.
Azonthus called out that she had picked up a faint scent. One that smelled of a Nekonian presence. The convoy followed a fresh trail down a more unknown area of the Basin. Az told them that a large and powerful clan of Giganotosaurs controlled this territory.
DJ gulped slightly. “Are we going to meet any of them?”
Az blinked thoughtfully. “My Clan lives too far away to make it there safely before nightfall. However, if I'm not mistaken, the Quickstrike Clan has a member who's a good friend of mine. Kiva Stoutheart was an Ambassador from the Basin for several years. She's worked tirelessly to promote some measure of guarded peace between ruling clans within the Basin, and keeping good terms with the Basin's residents and the rest of the Island as well. Although there are still some unfortunate incidences, Kiva has seen to it that many attacks on the convoys in the Basin have decreased quite a bit. If we are to stay anywhere, I think it should be there.”
As Azothus finished these words a tone sounded from just ahead. Instantly, everyone recognized the ethereal sound as a Fragment Tone. The deep, richness Ryka recognized as the Life Fragment. From it's hiding place on her person, her Fire Fragment answered and very near was another. Ryka hissed and leapt from her perch atop the Brachiosaur and sprinted off through the trees with a speed that even Az would have trouble matching.
“Ryka! Wait!” DJ called out, but she did not stop. She had to get there first. She had to find the Fragment before he did.
DJ stumbled over Azonthus’ tail as he tried to get over to the rope ladder. She yelped with pain. He had no time for apologies. He clumsily went down the ladder and almost fell onto the ground. Azonthus simply leapt off the carriage and nimbly landed on her feet. He ran up to the lead styracosaur where Schweitzer sat. “Schweitzer! Ryka went into the forest!”
“Your girlfriend is your problem, not mine.”
DJ snarled. “Kegato is nearby. Didn’t you hear that resonance? She’s running there to meet him!”
Without a word, Schweitzer whistled to the rear styracosaur. All four began to unlock the trunks of their carriages to retrieve their weapons. DJ couldn’t wait. He feared that he might lose Ryka in the forest.
He bolted into the part of the forest where he last saw her run in. Branches whipped into his face. He had his arms out to stop them and to keep his floppy hat from being thrown off. He stumbled through the dense foliage, his fear rising every second he couldn’t see Ryka.
Before he knew it, he stumbled into a clearing. The first thing he saw was Ryka and Kegato circling each other. He unthinkingly blurted out Ryka’s name. The outburst momentarily distracted Ryka from the task at hand. Kegato took the moment to close the gap between them.
The sound of clashing metal rang in the air as Katana met the blades on Ryka's fans. With force, Ryka pushed the Katana back and resumed a ready position.
On the other side of what became an arena, DJ saw Mirin. She too was simply standing there, looking at the combatants. Then DJ noticed the Giganotosaurs standing by, also watching the fight. “Holy crap!” DJ exclaimed. “We’re gonna need bigger backup."
He doubted that even the styracosaurs could leave the trail and crash through the foliage despite their intimidating strength. Even if they could, it would only provoke the carnivores. Behind him, he could hear Schweitzer and his team moving through the underbrush. They burst through and saw combat had already begun. DJ could see the bulge of sword and buckler underneath their travel cloaks. Their bows were still wrapped in blankets to protect the weapons from the underbrush they had just moved through. Not intending to give a fair fight, Schweitzer had decided to simply shoot arrows into this Kegato fellow. However, he noticed the Giganotosaurs standing off to the side and decided against taking such rash action in their territory.
DJ wanted the soldiers to jump in there and help, but he too was not sure about what the massive carnivores would do should they decide to initiate an all-out melee. "Schweitzer, where are my weapons?"
The sergeant simply handed over one of the blanketed packages. DJ could feel the familiar lines and bumps of both the scimitar and the buckler under the cloth. However, having them in his arms didn't give him any ideas about what to do. All he did was look at the fight that was transpiring before him.
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Feb 21, 2006 16:02:13 GMT -5
(OOC: Time to try my hand a writing a fight scene...)
Having warded off Kegato's first strike, Ryka felt just how damaged her shoulder was. The blow made her arm shudder and nearly caused it to buckle, but shifting the force to her right arm, she turned his balance back on him and forced him away. Unfortunately, Kegato also sensed this.
“Having trouble there, Ryka dear?” he asked, snidely. “Is that why you needed to bring assistance with you?” A quick glance at DJ pulled his lips back into a feral grin. “You have[/b] been distracted haven't you?” It got the result he wanted.
A bestial roar was uttered as Ryka charged him, the blades of her fan spinning dangerously in her hands. They spun like a circular saw and using the motions of her wrist, could easily flick the katana from Kegato's grip, then follow through for a death strike. However, Kegato would not let that happen. Unsheathing his kodachi, he used the flat sides of both swords to shield himself from her strikes, waiting for her to tire.
They moved like dancers, swaying and dodging, moving as one unit. Their positions changed constantly, flowing like water, as they circled. Neither seemed to keep the upper hand for long.
Kegato bided his time, patiently waiting, muscle memory keeping him one step ahead of Ryka's movements. An opening presented itself. Ryka's spun both fans up, leaving her stomach exposed. With a swift snap-kick, his foot caught her solar plexus. A rush of air exploded from her lungs as she staggered back, gasping and coughing. She dropped her weapons and clutched at her stomach, falling to her knees in dizzying pain. Kegato stood over her, katana held ready. From around the clearing a chorus of shouts rang out.
“Kegato!” Mirin screamed.
“Stop this!” Kiva shouted.
“Ryka! NO!” DJ yelled as he unsheathed his scimitar and raced forward. Kegato saw this and whirled around for a downward cut. DJ brought his blade up in defense and the two blades crashed together. DJ nearly collapsed under the force of the blow, but managed to keep his footing. Kegato's eyes sparkled in amusement.
“Are you supposed to be a threat?”
DJ grinned slightly. “Probably not to you. But they are...” he replied, stepping slightly to the side. Kegato's eyes narrowed as he saw another figure with a bow strung and pulled taught aiming at him from the tree line.
Ryu let fly the arrow and it sped towards its intended target. Kegato sidestepped it and swung upwards with his katana as it sped by, snapping it cleanly in two. As he moved to swing back around toward DJ, pain exploded in his side. The more inexperienced warrior had taken the opportunity of the distraction and cut across Kegato's unarmored side, his scimitar not causing great damage, but enough.
Kegato hissed and staggered back. Suddenly, a triumphant shout echoed across the clearing. “I found it!” a voice shouted. Kegato growled. He was no match against them in this state and did not dare try to take the Fragment by force. With a low roar he turned and sprinted off through the trees, disappearing from sight.
DJ crouched down next to Ryka and put his arm around her shoulders. “Are you alright?”
She nodded, still gasping and coughing a little. Ryu walked up to them with an indifferent look on his face at the sight. Another scout approached him and placed the recovered Fragment in his hand. It was the Earth Fragment. The green metal sparkled in the sun and a blue-and-green marble stone was nestled in the center. Ryu pocketed it quickly.
“We should get moving if we want to make it back to civilization by nightfall.”
DJ helped Ryka to stand and made sure she was steady before turning away to retrieve her fans and his scimitar. Ryu faced Ryka.
“Ma'am, I must ask that you turn over your fragment to me.” Ryka looked up at him confused. She shook her head, incredulously. Ryu continued. “I must insist. If you do not hand it over, we will have to take it from you by force.”
DJ stepped forward to protest, but one of the soldiers grabbed his arm and twisted it behind his back 'til it felt almost ready to snap. The other two grabbed Ryka's arms and pinned them to her side as she struggled. Had she been prepared for this attack, none of them would have stood a chance in such close quarters. But she was still woozy from the blow Kegato had dealt her. Tears flowed from her eyes as Ryu searched her person until he located the Key Fragment. When he found it, he signaled his men to release her, and they pulled back, ready for a retaliation.
But Ryka simply slumped to her knees again. Never before had any man put his hands on her in such a manner. It was a violating feeling and it made her sick. DJ had been released from his captor as well and knelt beside her again. He placed a hand on her shoulder, but she pulled away from him, turning accusing, tear-filled eyes to his face.
“So, these are the men you support? These are the men you want to have protecting this land? If so, then your homes will burn as well, and your land will be poisoned in due time.” She stood, shakily, her arms hugging her middle. “I see it will be the same wherever I go. If you wish to continue to support these men and Magnus, fine. But just make sure none of them ever turn their back on me; otherwise they'll not live long.”
Ryka slowly made her way back to the rest of the convoy as Kiva approached. Her gaze was hard as she looked from Ryu to DJ to the other soldiers.
“My family invites you and your convoy to stay the evening, and you may return to your 'civilization' at dawn,” she said with forced kindness. Ryu shook his head.
“Thank you, but our business here is complete and we have no more reason to stay. We should be heading back.” He started to walk off, but Kiva placed her hand on his shoulder.
“No, I insist. Well, let me rephrase that. You see, they[/b] insist more than I do.” She jerked her head to the side and Ryu noticed for the first time that the entire clan of Gigs had surreptitiously surrounded their small group, effectively cutting them off from escape.
“They're very curious to know why you have brought weapons to their home without permission and are so intent on hurting each other. Frankly, I'm intrigued too. So, we'll hear about it over dinner.”
“And if we refuse to stay?” Ryu ventured.
Kiva shrugged. “Then due action will be taken according to our Code and treaties.”
“What would that be?” DJ asked, afraid of the answer.
She looked them square in the eye before answering. “Then none of you will leave the Basin alive.”
(OOC: :oSuch drama. Are we excited yet?)[/color]
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sil
Junior Scholar
Leader of one, Lover of Music, Liver of Life
Posts: 202
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Post by sil on Feb 21, 2006 18:08:32 GMT -5
(OOC: Mirin wanted to fight someone. No fair!)
Kegato slumped up against a tree, clutching his side with his un-injured hand. His breathing was labored.
"Kegato, let me heal you." Mirin said calmly, walking up behind him. Kegato snarled and shrugged her off. "Now it is my turn to tell you Kegato. If you care for me as much as you say you do, then let me heal you."
With a snarl of consent, Kegato slumped to the jungle floor, wincing at the pain in his abdomen, face and hand.
Mirin started be healing his face. She placed her left hand above the wound and concentrated.
"Heal," she breathed. "Heal." Kegato's face closed up as his skin healed at a much faster rate. She moved to his waist, and finally moved her hand to his, Kegato wincing as his body rapidly replaced lost blood and skin cells.
Mirin smiled as the final bit of wound closed up and Kegato lifted his arm to examine the healing. Mirin was glad to notice that there wasn't even a scar.
"Impressive, I'll have to bring you along more often." Kegato said, raising to his full height. He turned back the way they had come.
Mirin came to his side and grabbed his hip. She was overjoyed to see that he didn't pull away, but rather, put his arm around her own hip. "If we wish to get the Fragments, we should wait till night fall. I can easily deal with any sentries." She smiled mischievously at the thought of it.
Kegato continued staring in the general direction. He sighed.
"No, they might not even be there anymore. I'm sure Ryka would wish to go find the other Fragments as soon as possible. She wouldn't wait."
"No, but Kiva and her relatives may insist on learning more about why apparently hostile humans would enter their territory unannounced with weapons." Mirin smiled as she began to clear away underbrush to find a dry patch of ground.
"How did you know that." Kegato asked, clearing away brush in his own way, with his claws.
"I did more that first day in the library than just chase you every-which-way and play with your knives." Mirin responded quite happily, turning to face Kegato. She flashed him a smile. "I'd also like to know why those men had weapons." She returned to her work. "From what I could find, it would seem that the people of this land don't take kindly to weapons."
She straightened up, her hands on her hips, and wiped a loose strand of hair from her face. The Sidhe didn't sweat.
"We'll spend the rest of the short day here, and sneak back to the camp after dark." Mirin said, slumping down next to a tree, and began to rebraid her hair.
"Won't you have trouble seeing?" Kegato asked, sliding down next to her. He yawned very dramatically and placed an arm around her shoulders. She looked up at him with a laugh in her eyes. Apparently the Nekonians, or at least this one, didn't find the yawn and grab so...old style. Mirin found it charming, at least for Kegato. If some suiter had tried it, she would have punched him in the groin.
"No. All Sidhe have excellent eyesight, even at night." She told him and leaned over to kiss him on the cheek.
Even there in the middle of the jungle, Mirin and Kegato's progress could not be dampened. They leaned into each other, and waited for night fall.
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SilvanoshiS
Apprentice
flightless and loving it
Posts: 143
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Post by SilvanoshiS on Feb 21, 2006 23:21:02 GMT -5
((OOC: Wow there's not much for me to write about here... It's all over and the action is focused on the two couples for the moment. I'll write more when the flow shifts away from internal turmoilt.))
"What... was... that?!?" Silvanoshi could barely contain his rage as he spoke at DJ. He could not bring himself to speak to him directly, after having witnessed multiple islanders use weapons with great proficiency. He began screaming at DJ in Skybax, who didn't understand much of it, but knew enough to know that it was a rather harsh chewing out.
"And you, I knew that the convoy gards were brutish, but that! What were you thinking handiling her like that!" This continued for a short time until Azonthus gave Silvano a sharp smack on the back of the head saying simply "Shut up." At this Silvano calmed down and shuffled along in silence, much to the relief of everyone within a quarter mile.
They came to the Gigantosaurs' camp late in the day and the convy was "impressed upon" the need for everyone to stay in the camp, and not go anywhere.
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aric
demi-admin
I drink your milkshake!
Posts: 989
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Post by aric on Feb 21, 2006 23:25:30 GMT -5
DJ’s heart still raced from the fight. And yet, all he could think about was Ryka’s accusatory words. Neither the near-death experience with Kegato, the presence of gigantic carnosaurs, nor the manhandling from the soldiers, affected him as greatly as his rebuff attempt to see to Ryka. He had not wanted to admit it fully to himself. He thought that there might have been the sliver of a chance that Magnus was looking after the welfare of the group rather than simply to take the fragments for himself. Clearly, DJ was just fooling himself. If Magnus was doing it for sympathetic reasons, it was buried under a mountain of self-justification for force. It seemed that he had to make a choice. Support Ryka and attain the fragments for her, or to let Magnus have them all for who knows what. If it were those two choices, then there was no contest. He would help Ryka get the fragments. And yet, might there be a third choice? The detainment of the soldiers by this Giganotosaur clan might prove itself to be an opportunity. With the fragments remaining in this territory, it can still be taken back without the overt risk of having the soldiers retaliate. Would the Giganotosaurs be of help? Might Azonthus know them well enough to convince them to stop the soldiers from leaving with the fragments? DJ looked at his sheathed scimitar and buckler. They would not help in any attempt to get the pieces from Schweitzer and his men. Holding out the scimitar before him, he felt a bit of pride in having used it to some pretty good effect. He screwed on his buckler’s eight-inch metal spike onto the boss. Next time, he might be able to more than simply get in a flesh wound with the sword. His fist gripped the handle behind the fluted metal and punched the buckler into an imaginary foe before him. But next time, he may not have Schweitzer’s support. In that case, DJ wouldn’t last very long. He and Ryka might actually have to confront the sergeant and his men. He didn’t like that prospect at all. Not only was the defense force his beloved special project, but he also couldn’t really begrudge Schweitzer for doing his job. It ultimately came down to the orders the sergeant was given. Orders from Magnus. If he had proposed the creation of the defense force in an open forum, then there might have been some degree of public oversight. Instead, it had developed into Magnus' personal army. DJ sighed. He had thought he was such a great judge of character. Did he just miss something with Magnus, or was the councilor already like that in the first place, avarice simmering just below the surface, ready to burst forth at the first opportunity? He would have to deal with his old friend eventually. He just didn’t know how yet. Blowing the top off the secret build up of men-at-arms might help. Ryka was right when she said Magnus needed the shadows to operate. Exposing Magnus to the harsh light of public scrutiny might just take care of that. The trick was on getting there. Ryka was slowly walking away from him. A gap was yawning between them just when DJ thought they were hitting it off. He trotted over next to her. He softly brushed his hand against her arm, but she jerked away from him. Cradling her own arms, it looked like she was trying to console herself by giving herself a hug. He didn’t think forcing himself near her would help. DJ said, “We’ll get the pieces.” “And how do you plan to do that?” she asked hoarsely, her voice trembling with emotion. DJ shrugged. “Schweitzer and his men aren’t going anywhere for the moment. Those fragments aren’t gone just yet. We just need to figure out a way to prevent them from leaving with the key fragments.” “What can we possibly do?” He was at a loss to say what might happen. Scanning his eyes around as if the answer was lying somewhere near, he then spied Kiva talking softly in that growling language of the carnosaurs to one of her “kin”. “Just wait a second,” he said. “I have an idea.” With that, he sprinted over to Kiva. The Giganotosaur saw him coming and swiveled its giant head towards him. With a deep growl, putrid breath that smelled of decay and death washed over him. He almost fainted. Kiva gently put her hand on the creature’s snout, calming it down somewhat. “What is it that you want?” she asked. DJ put out his hand, palm facing the almost wild girl from the Basin. “My name is DJ Applejack. I, as well as the female combatant, are part of a convoy traveling through this area.” “Tell me something I don’t know.” He gulped. “Well, as you may have noticed, the guards of my party have in their possession two objects that technically don’t belong to them. Since they were in your clan’s territory when they were retrieved, I thought that I should point out that they have no right to take them without your clan’s permission.” Kiva frowned. “Aren’t you with them?” “In a matter of speaking, though all is not as it appears.” Kiva nodded. “That’s why my clan needs to hear your convoy’s story to figure out what to do with you.” “Yes, yes. But before that, I just wanted to make sure that you knew at least one of those pieces were found in your territory, giving you certain rights to it by some standards of salvage rules. And the other was forcefully taken from my female companion – her name is Ryka – without her consent. All this while you were watching. I do not mean to be accusatory, but I’d say that theft from you, as well as theft from my friend, while in your territory – and under your supervision, no less – may send mixed signals should word ever get out of the incident. Others who are less savory in character may take advantage of such rumors and take liberties in your territory. I don’t think you’d want that. Just so you’d know.” Kiva’s eyes became hard. “Are you trying to extort us?” DJ shrugged. “I’m merely pointing out the situation for you. Anything you feel is probably a result of guessing – correctly – whatever consequences that may spring from this incident. For our part, the tribute of smoked fish can be yours.” He paused for a moment. Then he started slowly. "And perhaps the contents of the trunk on one of the styracosaur carriages. The one with the most stuff in it." Kiva didn’t like his tactics, but it didn’t mean he wasn’t correct. And she was intrigued with the offer of non-fish tribute. “We’ll see what to do with you after dinner once you’ve told us about your reasons for being here. DJ bowed. “That is all I ask, gracious host. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to get back to my companion and see where Azonthus is-“ “Azonthus is here?” Kiva exclaimed. “Yes. I thought she was right on my heels, but I guess the guards intercepted her and told her to stay with SkyHigh.” Kiva’s head jerked a bit at the brachiosaur’s name. Does she know the sauropod? DJ wondered. No answer was forthcoming, so he stepped back to be with Ryka. Well, at least we’ll be fed tonight, he thought. Then he saw the giganotosaurs eyeing the convoy members hungrily. Yeah, but to who?He wished he hadn’t thought that. ((OOC: The reason for suggesting that the giganotosaur clan confiscate one of the soldiers' trunks is so that Ryka and Kiva (or Azonthus) might be able to obtain the arms and perhaps armor of two of the men. That would mean two composite short bows and the arrows, two long swords, two bucklers, and perhaps their armor. Ryka might need a bow. So might Azonthus or Kiva.)) EDIT - ((OOC: Yeah, sorry about that SilvanoshiS. However, once we start talking with Kiva, you can share what you know about the gates with her. Then we can build some sort of idea as to how they fit in the RP.)) EDIT 2 - ((OOC: Just changed the wording of the RP to fit the plot continuity. What luck that the fragment just happened to be right here. Huh. ))
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Feb 22, 2006 17:04:32 GMT -5
(OOC: An "almost wild girl from the Basin"? I don't know if I should take that as a compliment or an insult. )
Kegato could not seem to stop his mind from thinking. He didn't like sitting here -although Mirin's presence was soothing and calming to him- sitting there and doing nothing. A single question kept racing through his mind, and he could not seem to answer it himself. Only from Mirin would he find his answer.
“Mirin?” She picked her head up from his shoulder and looked at him, questioningly. “Mirin, why do you love me?”
She tried to sit up, but his grip around her shoulders tightened, pulling her in closer to him.
“What kind of question is that?” she asked, as if he were stupid. Kegato did not pick up the traces of sarcasm in her voice; or if he did, he ignored it.
“I'm serious. I need to know.”
Mirin shook her head slightly. “I don't understand.”
Kegato continued, thoughtfully. “What if I told you it was true? That innocent men were imprisoned and executed under decrees bearing my signet? That homes were burned and lands seized and poisoned? Families were torn apart? All this, I ask you: What if it were true?”
Mirin's green and gold eyes widened as he said these terrible words. They just couldn't be true. He wouldn't... But the look on his face confirmed her fears.
“Yes, Mirin. It's true. All those things were done in my name and by my signet. So again I ask: Why do you love me?” He allowed her to pull away and back off a bit. His eyes were devoid of emotion as he watched her before continuing.
“Do you love me because you have seen past what you do not know? Or was it because your Ring told you that you must?” As he asked this, he opened his closed fist, and there, nestled in his palm, was her Ring that he'd stealthily purloined from her pouch. Seeing the look of shock on her face nearly broke his heart, but he shook the feeling aside. Tossing the ring at her feet, he waited for her answer. Deep inside, he sensed what her reaction would be, and prepared himself for what answer awaited him.
(OOC: Now it's your turn, Sil. Make it good!)
---,--'--(@
After DJ informed the rest of the convoy that they were staying here for the night, he went off in search of Ryka. Perhaps if he could just talk to her again...
He found her sitting by the fire, staring into it, knees hugged to her chest, thinking deeply. Her dinner still sat beside her where Kiva had put it a half hour ago. They were just beginning to eat when Kiva's 'parents' arrived. She rushed off to greet them and inform them of what had transpired.
Taking a deep breath, DJ walked over and sat next to Ryka, close enough so that their shoulders touched. He was slightly relived when she did not pull away from his touch. They sat there in silence for a moment before he finally got up his nerve to speak, Ryka cut him off.
“I'm sorry,” she said simply. DJ was taken aback.
“For what?” he sputtered.
Ryka's eyes still gazed into the fire. “I've been selfish. I shouldn't have blamed you for what happened. You didn't know about the soldier's orders, or what Magnus is planning. You've been nothing but kind to me, and I am ashamed of how petty I've acted. I owe you my life... twice... and I don't think I'll ever be able to repay you.”
DJ bowed his head and flushed crimson under her praise. She spoke his name and he turned his face toward her. He felt her warm breath pass over his face only moments before their lips met. It was a gentle kiss, one that lasted only a few moments before she pulled back. Seeing the look of shock on his face made her cheeks red with embarrassment. She turned back to face the fire.
“Forgive me. My instincts make me a little... impulsive sometimes.”
Fifteen minutes later, Ryu, Ryka, DJ, Silvanoshi, and Kiva were gathered around the fire with some select members of Kiva's clan.
Authoritatively, Kiva spoke first. “As I said before, I'm interested to know why members of Dinotopian society have chosen to create an army, bringing weapons to our home,” she began, looking pointedly at Ryu and DJ; “And also to know why a Dolphinback has decided to bring war to our island.” This last remark was directed to Ryka.
“Our patience is great, so anyone may begin. As you speak, I will translate to my family.” She paused. “Whenever you're ready...”
(OOC: Aric, the significance of the 15 minutes is just in case you wanted to say anything there to Ryka or whatever. I wanted to give you a chance to respond to that... incident... before Kiva came over. Remember, you still have to convince me to help you... )
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sil
Junior Scholar
Leader of one, Lover of Music, Liver of Life
Posts: 202
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Post by sil on Feb 22, 2006 20:46:31 GMT -5
Mirin stooped to pick up the Ring at her feet. Her face concealed by her waves of hair.
"I...I'm not sure...The Ring...the Ring doesn't choose your one true love. Or at least, not really. In all the history of my people, the Ring's choices have always ended up in happiness, but the Ring only chooses rulers. That was it's purpose, to pick the match politically that would complement the current successor."
"I am sorry." Kegato turned to leave.
"But that's not it. The Ring may choose a match, but is the wearers heart that makes it work. It would not have paired us if we had no chance together." Mirin's eye's began to glow softly as she continued. "It may have been the Ring that made me realize my affections, no, my love, for you. But it was there all along, Kegato. I realized, somewhere, that first moment I saw your eyes, that wild untamed anger inside them, that I wanted to tame that anger, destroy it."
Mirin took a small step forward, the Ring clutched in her hands. Her hands pressed up against her chest. "And no amount of evil, whether intentional or because it was all you knew, could ever quell that desire Kegato. I love you Kegato, and nothing could ever change that."
She closed the distance between herself and Kegato. Pressing her body up against his. He looked down on her in mild surprise. Like a first timer, which in-fact he was.
"Besides," Mirin said, glancing into those deep, limpid eyes, "Maybe the Ring knew of what you've done. Maybe some higher power brought us together to help each other. Me to quell the fighter in you. And you to help me realize what I really wanted to do with myself, not rule a country, just rule myself. And maybe someone else, if I'm lucky."
Mirin trailed her index finger up Kegato's strong chest, and let it stop on his chin. She pulled in Kegato's face, to kiss him...
Kegato pulled back, catching Mirin's hand in his.
"I can not Mirin." Mirin opened her mouth to protest, but Kegato put one gentle finger on her lips. "No amount of love can reverse what I've done to my people. Nothing can undo the undo-able." He turned away.
Mirin grabbed his arm. "And nothing has to. What's done is done. Trust me, if you've lived as long as I have, you learn to realize that quite quickly. But that doesn't stop you from pulling back and changing direction. As my grandmother always said, 'every road has two directions." Mirin waved a finger at Kegato's face.
"Now shut up and kiss me, you foolish tyrant." Mirin grabbed Kegato's shirt and pulled him into one of the roughest kisses he'd ever experianced. Who was he kidding, it was the roughest kiss he'd ever experianced.
It sparked things inside Kegato he never knew could ignite. The kiss became long, wet, and passionate. They both broke off gasping for air, a smile on Mirin's lips, shock on Kegato's.
Kegato's mouth opened and shut for a moment. Followed by a rush of inarticulate sounds. After much effort, he simply said, "Wow." Mirin giggled.
"I hope you know, Kegato, that this will change things. For us, for Dinotopia, for Nekonia, and possibly for the universe. If I go home with you, thing's will have to change."
Kegato just stared at her, his mouth open in shock. Mirin giggled, and pulled him in for a second kiss.
(OOC: Good enough? I laugh maniacally. Mwahahahahaha...Mwahahahaha)
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aric
demi-admin
I drink your milkshake!
Posts: 989
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Post by aric on Feb 23, 2006 1:38:50 GMT -5
((OOC: Well, it’s turning out that “civilization” isn’t all that civilized, so being “almost wild” has its virtues.))
Warmth spread from DJ’s lips to the rest of his body as Ryka’s lips pressed gently upon his. In the few moments that their lips touched, DJ couldn’t help feeling both surprised and pleased. He liked the way her soft lips felt against his. He also liked that she didn’t seem to be angry with him anymore.
Before he wanted it to be over, she pulled away from him. He could see her gauge his reaction from his face. Apparently, he betrayed more shock than pleasure at the kiss. She herself was beginning to red. DJ almost laughed aloud. How could she ever think that he would think any less of her just because of a quick furtive kiss?
“Forgive me. My instincts make me a little... impulsive sometimes,” she mumbled.
DJ didn’t like seeing her feel that way over a kiss. A kiss that was so genuine and heartfelt. He thought about saying something, but couldn’t think of the words. He simply reached up to her face and placed his hand on her cheek, which was warm from the blush. He gently turned her face to look at him. Now it was Ryka’s turn to betray a little surprise. DJ leaned in and returned the kiss. He savored the moment as much as possible. When he slowly pulled back, he saw that her eyes were closed. His arms pulled her closer to him, embracing her and not wanting to let go.
“I have to say,” DJ said. “I don’t think I would have had the courage to instigate a relationship with you on my own.”
Ryka looked up at him. “I’m glad you met me halfway”
“So am I. I had some moments of hesitation before, but from the first time I saw you lying in bed at Bonabba I… well, I couldn’t have loved you just then. I didn’t even know you. But, I cared about what happened to you. I stopped you from going into the Basin that first day not just because it was dangerous, but also because I didn’t like the idea of never seeing you again. I wanted you to be in my life. I wasn’t sure what part of my life you would come to occupy, but I guess was infatuated enough to want you around long enough until I could figure it out. I’m still not absolutely sure after only three days, but I think I love you.”
Ryka nestled her head on his shoulder. “I have this void in my heart. It was cut out years ago when everything I knew and loved was taken from me. My world was destroyed. After all that I’ve done to fight Kegato, that abyss of nothingness only seemed to have gotten bigger. I became afraid that it would eventually swallow me whole. That’s why I felt that I needed to reach out to someone – to you. I needed someone real who could keep me from falling over the edge, to keep me rooted on the firm earth. I needed someone to live for. That night at the inn, I chose you. I suspected that you had some feelings for me, but I couldn’t wait for you to eventually act on it. I didn’t know what the morrow would bring me. I needed someone then and there. I need you now.”
DJ hugged her even tighter. “You know I’ll always be there for you.”
She thought back to the times he saved her life. “Yeah, I know. I wouldn’t be here now if it weren’t for you.”
DJ didn’t say anymore. All he wanted to do was to be with her. He could feel her firm but relaxed body against his. Ryka’s body had been hardened by a life of work and suffering. He found that he liked that quality about her. His own untested flesh was soft and mushy by comparison. And yet, mentally she seemed to be almost at a cul-de-sac. It was almost as if she had carried the weight of the world on her shoulders. In a way, she had for her own world in her fight with Kegato. But now, she had help.
He wanted to stay holding her for the rest of the night. But the rustling of foliage behind them told of the coming of the group. He reluctantly released her from his embrace. Ryka gulped down whatever pieces of the meal Kiva had set down beside her that she could shovel into her mouth. DJ smiled as he had found her eating habits amusing as of late. He knew she had eaten sparsely for the past few days. It probably wasn’t even how she normally ate. But, it wasn’t something girls back home in Massachusetts did. It was delightful to see something different from Ryka, the cat-girl from Nekonia. It was interestingly closer to his own eating habits.
Kiva, Silvanoshi, Schweitzer, Azonthus, Ryka, DJ, and assorted members of Kiva’s clan were gathered around the roaring fire. All but Kiva and her kin were sitting. Authoritatively, she spoke up. “As I said before, I'm interested to know why members of Dinotopian society have chosen to create an army, bringing weapons to our home,” she began, looking pointedly at Ryu and DJ. “And also to know why a Dolphinback has decided to bring war to our island.” This last remark was directed to Ryka.
Schweitzer replied first. “Good host, I have no idea what makes you think six armed convoy members constitute an army. We are merely exercising our right to defend ourselves. I should also point out that the weapons we have would be no real threat to your carnosaur kin. Rather, it was meant to ward off smaller carnivore brigands as well as that Kegato fellow whom we fought with earlier. Our engagement with him shows the wisdom of defending ourselves with arms.”
A politician as well as a warrior, DJ thought.
Kiva replied sardonically, “I hope you don’t think we’re stupid here in the Basin. In all my experience with convoys, never once did I come across one that was armed with offensive weaponry. My kin in other parts of our territory have informed me that the few convoys they themselves have intercepted today do not have the same aggressive equipment you have now. The fact that you mention Kegato by name tells us that yours is not a normal convoy simply passing through the Basin. You have admitted that your weapons were brought, at least in part, because of Kegato. Earlier events have shown members of your group instantly falling upon Kegato without any observed provocation from his part. It appears to us that your group was specifically formed to find and attack Kegato. Your story about being innocent passengers smells like nothing but a big pile of coprolite.”
Schweitzer opened his mouth to speak, but thought against it.
Kiva continued. “You seem quite experienced with that bow of yours.” She turned to Ryka. “And you with those weapons of yours. I got the impression from you two the same one that I got from Kegato. Warriors, through and through. The newcomers, I can understand. But you, Schweitzer, you’re Dinotopian. And don’t tell me archery is simply a hobby. Your command over your three so-called convoy crew is too tight and formal for you to be members of a club. If we didn’t know any better, you seem to be part of a martial organization.”
Schweitzer shrugged. “Is there anything wrong with that? I don’t see anyone harassing the Unrivalled about their own ways.”
Kiva almost sneered. “The Unrivalled don’t barge into our lands and make war upon our guests. Nor do they steal under our watch.”
For the first time during this meeting, Schweitzer’s composure started buckling. “What are you talking about?” he asked lamely.
Kiva rolled her eyes. “Did you not think we didn’t see you picking up that stray fragment? Did you not think we saw you incapacitate Ryka and take hers? Even though we were right there?!”
The attending Giganotosaurs roared a chorus of outrage. Schweitzer flinched and almost fell back. The primal bellows echoed throughout the night.
Visibly trembling a bit, the sergeant asked, “What do you plan to do?”
Kiva eyed him unemotionally. “Simple. We plan to undo this stain on our honor. Now, if you would hand over those fragments, we will return the one to its previous owner.”
Schweitzer paled.
Ryka stood up to face Kiva and the carnosaurs. “I am Ryka from Nekonia. You asked me earlier why I brought this conflict down upon you all. I came here to get away from Kegato, who rules the land from which I came with an iron fist. His hands are stained with the blood of his own people. To prevent him from warring on other realms to increase his own power, I activated the interdimensional gate in his palace and went through with the whole key in hand. When I arrived here, the key broke up and its constituent fragments spread out across this island. We followed him into the Rainy Basin so that he couldn’t get his hands on the other piece that has apparently landed her, the one now in your possession. If he were to get his hands on all the pieces and unite them, he would no doubt use it somehow to further his own interests. Please, you must help us. Or at least, not help Kegato”
Kiva frowned. Kegato didn’t mention any of this. Of course, why would he if it were true? Could these people be lying to her? On the face of it, Kegato’s story seemed to be genuine, though she only had his word for it. Why else would he be in the Basin? But come to think of it, Ryka’s version didn’t exactly contradict Kegato’s. It just added a new element that may have been missing from the picture. Kiva’s clan had simply assumed that he told them the whole truth. Could it be that he simply told them the best parts about him and left out others? Did Kiva and her kin simply read something into Kegato’s character that may have been due to an omission on his part? Kiva’s blood boiled at the possibility of being duped.
And yet, there’s still no proof showing who was telling the truth. Though Ryka’s account did not directly contradict Kegato’s it’s possible that hers was the fabrication.
Ryka continued. “I did not mean to bring conflict to this wonderful island. I just wanted to be rid of Kegato and deny him his power over other realms.”
“The lack of candor from Mister Schweitzer doesn’t do your group any favors. Your story doesn’t exactly contradict the one Kegato told us, but that doesn’t mean anything by itself. What can you do to prove your part of the tale?”
Ryka was at a lost for words. Then DJ stood up. “As you already know, Kiva Stoutheart, I am DJ Applejack. You’re right that there is no way to tell who is telling the truth. However, back at the fight, couldn’t you see his bloodthirst as he tried to behead Ryka?”
Kiva sniffed. “As I recall, it was she who started that fight. I also recall that it was Ryka who flung that circular bladed weapon at Mirin rather than Kegato. And I didn’t get the impression that Ryka would have shown any mercy to Kegato. So, the fight itself tells us nothing, other than that you were willing to instigate conflict rather than talk things through.
Ryka’s fur riled. “Talking would have accomplished nothing! And I didn’t aim to kill Mirin. I knew Kegato could hear my shuriken slicing through the air. I counted on him to do the same for her what DJ once did for me.” ((OOC: I have no idea if this is actually why she did this. To be honest, I can’t figure it out either))
“In other words, you expected him to act honorably in protecting the one he cares about? Not exactly stunning evidence that he’s a heartless tyrant.”
DJ cut in. “Okay, you want credibility on our part? Fine, here it is. You’re absolutely right. We are building an army.”
Schweitzer hissed. “Shut up!”
DJ ignored the sergeant. “It was supposed to be a defense force for this island. To protect it from outside threats. The nations of this world are progressing technologically and industrially. Soon, they will have the power to overwhelm this place. And that will happen if they ever find out about Dinotopia. And that is why I helped start this force. At least, that was my intent.”
Schweitzer seemed ready to jump over to DJ and slap him silly.
DJ continued. “I thought that Dinotopians would never accept such a force.”
“As well they shouldn’t,” Kiva said. “Such actions are quite inflammatory and threatening.”
“That’s why it had to be done in secret.”
Schweitzer seethed with anger, but he couldn’t do anything here with the Giganotosaurs around. “Have you forgotten your duty?”
“I think I’m doing my duty right now. We need to be honest with our hosts, lest we lose the fragments.”
Azonthus and Silvanoshi shook their heads at DJ. The raptor spoke up first. “I thought you knew better than this. I’m very disappointed in you. What were you thinking?”
DJ replied, “I thought I was doing the right thing. I would imagine that’s what sergeant Schweitzer does to convince himself that he’s not violating Dinotopia’s principles. That it’s his duty to manhandle a woman and take her property. That it’s his duty to take abandoned property from our hosts’ land. You can justify a lot when you think that way.”
Schweitzer only glared at DJ. He was probably too honorable to outright lie or obfuscate to support his position.
Kiva broke through the uncomfortable silence. “I should let you ‘civilized’ folk know that the Basin carnivores would not have stood for such hooliganism. We would have attempted to put a stop to this army of yours. You folks might even appreciate our help.”
DJ said flatly, “We have countermeasures against carnivores. The same kind we used when we overthrew their rule millennia ago. And our stuff is better now. We have cannons. And soon, Magnus will order the production of powerful firearms, for use against both outside invaders as well as any small to medium-sized carnivore from the Basin.”
Schweitzer harrumphed and left the fire. But before he got far, a Giganotosaur growled. Kiva said, “We’ll need those fragments of the key. They do not belong to you. This one will accompany you to your companions. He’ll see to it that the fragments are handed over.”
With that, Schweitzer walked dejectedly back to the encampment with the carnosaur following him.
DJ continued. “This is all we have to offer: the truth.”
Kiva grumbled in her language to her kin. Then she turned to DJ and Ryka. “We are thankful that you informed us about what has been transpiring outside the Basin. But, this doesn’t tell us about the truthfulness of your respective stories when it comes to the ownership of the fragments. We must discuss it further amongst the clan elders.”
DJ looked at Ryka. She was beginning to looke worried. The idea of them possibly helping Kegato was too much. DJ hurriedly said, “Wait. You want to find out if what we say about Kegato is true? Hold on to the pieces and see if he comes back to take them. If he’s as power-hungry as we say, he’ll come and take the fragments no matter what you may try to do. He may even plan to steal it.”
Kiva shook her head. “Entrapment is a dangerous road.”
“Then ask him,” DJ pleaded. “Ask him about what he’s done. You said that he didn’t bother outright lying to you when he was here. Maybe he won’t be so willing to lie if his honor is at stake.”
“That’s no guarantee. And there’s a little something distasteful about questioning someone’s honor without proof.”
"At least guarantee that you won't help Kegato, if you choose not to help us. The piece found here is yours after all."
And we have a gateway here in the Basin, Kiva thought. She shook her head at the idea. DJ thought she was reacting to his proposal.
He interjected, “And I’ll show you the details about the weapons Magnus has developed to use against you. I don’t know if it’ll do you any good, though. And I would freely offer the contents of one of the carriage trunks. It has samples of some of the weaponry we’ve been developing. I don’t know if this’ll do any good, but I thought that it would further our own credibility and willingness to help.”
Kiva said, “We’ll confer on the matter tonight. You're honesty is refreshing considering the martial company you keep. It goes a long way, along with that incident with the fragment and your lady friend, towards your favor. But, we’ll inform you of our decision in the morning. Right now, get some rest. You’re safe as long as you’re with us.”
DJ thanked Kiva before she and her clan moved away from the fire. He was a little ashamed to go back to Ryka. He wasn’t sure that he was convincing enough to sway the Giganotosaur clan to their position. She guessed what he was thinking and offered her hand to him. He took it and sat next to her. She said, “So, what now?”
He shrugged. “I don’t know. We’ll be getting your piece back, but the Giganotosaurs will probably hold onto the other until morning.”
“Until Kegato comes for it,” she whispered.
“Maybe. What tomorrow brings depends on what Kiva’s clan decides tonight. I’m sorry, but I tried everything I could think of to convince them that we’re telling the truth.”
“I know,” Kiva sighed. “What’ll we do after tomorrow morning?”
"We continue to look for the other pieces around the island. At least we can be fairly sure that Kegato won't get the one in the possession of the Giganotosaurs. It seems that we have some refuge from Kiva’s clan. And we’ll probably be able to take refuge with Azonthus’ clan if things don’t work out here, so we can make our way out of the Basin and search for the others.”
“What about Kegato?”
DJ frowned. It was going to be a lot harder to deal with Kegato now that he alienated the scouts. But they still had orders to obtain the fragments, so they won't be toop far from Ryka's piece. Now, at least, DJ and Ryka knew exactly where they stood with Magnus and his men.
((OOC: Honestly, I had no idea what to do other than to have DJ be completely straightforward.))
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Feb 23, 2006 16:39:25 GMT -5
(OOC: Just a little friendly competition... 5 points and a basket of s'mores to whoever can tell me what Kegato's name means. I'll give you a hint. It's Japanese, and you need to take off the 'to' part. It's just a name ending for a male. Good luck!)
The sun had finally set, and Kegato was sure that everyone was asleep. He needed to get that Fragment back, and it didn't matter how. He and Mirin worked up a plan. She would incapacitate(not kill, Sil) Ryu and his men, while Kegato searched for the Fragment. They would then rendezvous later at a predetermined location.
In the darkness, they set off.
---,--'--(@
Ryka yawned, not out of tiredness, but of boredom. She would not need to sleep again for a while, and everyone else was getting ready for bed. With a shrug, she decided to see what DJ was up to. As she headed back toward the group, something darted in front of her and snarled. Surprised, Ryka skipped back a few steps and crouched on all fours. She was shocked to see a Gig hatchling, one no higher than her waist, growling at her angrily. On impulse Ryka growled back, and the hatchling cocked its head, blinking at her questioningly. Slowly, the hatchling took a few steps towards her and continued to stare.
The sensation of breathing on the back of her neck made Ryka turn. She was confronted by the massive head of what she could only assume was the hatchling's mother. The massive carnivore simply watched Ryka, and Ryka found she could not help but gaze into the mother's eyes. Eyes as golden as her own. The effect was incredible.
Ryka suddenly found herself surrounded by four more Gig hatchlings, all of them snuffling her quietly and observing this strange new creature that shared their home. And with the mother Gig looking on, Ryka and the five hatchlings wrestled playfully. It was an unfair match, with all five hatchlings ganging up on Ryka, but she managed to hold her own.
Unseen from the shadows, Kiva watched the strange woman play-wrestling with her students. Usually, such behavior was more structured, but it was still amusing to watch. And Kiva could not deny the young woman some measure of happiness. Judging from her countenance earlier, Kiva could see that Ryka had led a hard life. Some experience had placed a look of sadness on her face, and grief was apparent in her eyes.
Kiva turned away and walked over to SkyHigh. The massive Brachiosaur dipped his head down to see her face to face. DJ was nearby, unloading some supplies from a trunk. He walked over to her.
“Has your family come to a decision?”
Kiva shook her head. “They're still discussing it now. I've said my part and now my voice is no longer necessary.” She reached up and scratched behind the ridge on SkyHigh's head. “I just came to see an old friend. We haven't seen each other since...” Kiva paused here, eyes filling with tears that she quickly blinked away. She smiled faintly. “It's just been a long time, hasn't it boy?” SkyHigh gave a soft, sonorous groan in reply.
Kiva was about to say more but she started violently. DJ was about to ask what was wrong, but in the light of the full moon he saw the tip of a deadly kunai pressed to her throat. Kegato stood behind her, his dark form all but hidden in the dim light.
“Cry out, and she dies, saru,” he growled to DJ. “You all have something of mine and I want it back. Hand over the Fragments and I may let her live...”
(OOC: I was really[/b] tired when I wrote this, so if it's not so godd, just forgive me. Anywho... *falls asleep and starts snoring*)[/color]
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