Quest II. The night the towers cried [open]

[Cassandra Coven]

The aural assault scrambled Cassandra's brain so much she wondered if one of the gods had suddenly decided to kill them all with sound. It coincided with the sudden flaring of pain from the veins in her hands. Concealed though as they were by fingerless gloves, she knew it was some sort of sign from the goddess who favored her. She half-expected her skin to explode open to make her bleed all over the floor - like that one time the agony of the wounds had forced her to kill a homeless man - but the pain receded and so did the blaring racket. As soon as she regained her senses, she did find out the identity of the one who had caused it: it was the big-mouthed Akalak she spotted earlier. Andry's friend. She had very limited experiences with their kind but the one time she did run across one, that particular Akalak did not exactly endear his race to her. The one before her only reinforced the idea that they were a people made up of fools. Sub-human thing. She had no idea that her thoughts were colored by the racial prejudice seemingly instilled in her by being exposed to the culture of Ravok, but in truth it did not matter. She was just irritated by the Akalak's action. Cassandra opened her mouth to speak up, to call the giant of a man a giant of a fool, when she spotted the foursome making their way towards the Akalak's direction. The uniforms, the way they walked, even just the look on their cruel faces, all revealed to the dark-haired woman the truth about their identities even before one of them revealed the mark of the Black Sun stamped on his forehead. The color drained from Cassandra's face as she beheld the sight of it. It was doubtful they would know of her or recognize her but it was also possible the acolyte she shared her bed with liked to brag of his fine catch. Attention from their kind in a setting such as this would never be a good thing. Already, she spotted another person who seemingly had a deathwish stand beside the Akalak. She did not need to see this. It was not so much their weapons that people should fear, but what Rhysol's favored could do with...His blessing. Ducking her head, Cassandra turned around to try and lose herself in the small crowd. She almost bumped into the Konti that had so enchanted her. The other Konti - the haughty one - was nearby, as well as a curly haired human who seemed to know the first Konti. Actually, they all looked like they seemed to know each other. And for some reason, Cassandra felt the need to warn them of the Black Sun soldiers, or at least the first Konti. "Mistress!" she whispered harshly, not knowing how to address such a being. "You do not want to have the eyes of ones such as they upon you!" Cassandra grabbed the Konti by the wrist and tried to yank her towards the direction of the thickest part of the crowd. She did not linger long enough to force the fey woman to come with her, however. Whether the Konti followed or not, Cassandra still moved to stand behind the tall and muscular desert-folk she had tried to avoid earlier.

[Aidara]

It was a magical feeling, to feel the faint sturrings of new life flutter beneath ones fingers. It was a moment to be cherished and remembered. Unfortunately for the women, their special moment was shattered with the sound of that horn. "Um...Owww." Clapping her hands down over her ears in an attempt to save her eardrums from any permanant damage, Addy swung to face the direction the horn came from. "That...was....obnoxiously...loud." Of course, the noise had drawn the attention of everyone on the disc. Addy jumped up and down, speaking between gritted teeth as she attempted to see over the solid wall of shoulders and torso's in front of her. It was such a drag being short. "Sira, I think I can...make it through to see what... is going on." The healer didn't bother to look over her shoulder as she spoke, still grunting as she fought for a better position with a rather muscular fellow on her right. It was a loosing battle, but no one said the fiery redhead didn't have spunk. "I'm almost..." She had gained the advantage, and had her thin shoulder wedged in between her neighbor and his equally burly friend that appeared. She was busily forcing her way through when she heard shouting. Trapped in the crush of bodies, Addy was unable to hear what was being said. All at once, she was thrown backwards onto her rump, pulled immediately back onto her feet by Sira and was given an armful of bow. "Wha...?" Habit assured that the bow was carefully grasped with the string protected against her body to shield it from damage as Sira sprinted away. Though she was utterly confused, Addy sprinted after the kelvic. She had been sure that someone on this floating islandy-thing was just being absurd, and she wanted to see. Apparently it was more than that. As she ran, Addy tested the string of her bow, slung the quiver over her shoulder and reached back for a single arrow. "He's right. We don't even know where we are or what's going on and you want to start a bloodbath? What makes you so fit to lead any of us!?" Sira was already shouting by the time Addy caught up. Puffing only slightly, the smaller woman slid into place behind the first. It took only moments to survey the situation. There were four strangers (well, stranger-strangers, since everyone on this floaty thing were mysterious to the Inarta) with drawn weapons. There was a whispering hiss as the little healer drew her bow, notched the arrow and held it ready by her side, pointing towards the ground. "Aye, what are you? I -" but she was cut off, as multiple men ran to the defense as well. Addy was jostled as a particularly eager one ran to the forefront. He was big. Huge. And green. Very green. Aidara gaped open mouth at him as he towered over her and Sira both, his voice booming over the crowd. "No use talking to pig petchers like these. They've already declared there intentions. I dunno about the rest of you, but I don't want some stinker bullies as leaders." "Wait! Why aren't we all on the same...side? We're all trapped here, where ever here is. I'm all for putting up the weapons, like they said," a light gesture towards Sira, Talen and Miro. All the while she kept her bow in the resting position, pointing towards the ground. However, the way her shoulder muscles bunched and strained and the telling way the tendons in her arms popped, she was ready for anything. "But if it comes down to a fight... It does look like you're outnumbered." Addy was a leader, back home. She did know how to take charge. Unlike her racist, unwelcoming kinfolk, however, Addy was willing to give anyone a chance. She had no problem what so ever working with these strangers...as long as they weren't complete idiots. “Hay, can I have all the bodies you kill in this little scuffle?” Addy had to laugh, glancing over at the man, she flashed her dimples. "There will be no bodies, hopefully. There is no reason for them to hurt us.. But perhaps we can work something out after all this is over... if you like warm, naked bodies that is." The impish grin was flashed at Sira as well, before turning back towards the men with the drawn weapons.

[Ma'ii]

Ma'ii felt the drawing of a blade behind him in the direction of the green-skinned giant; it felt like plunging your hand into a cool river after it was scalded by a hot rock.

"Ma'ii. Trouble Faroul." he hissed. Staying low, Ma'ii pivoted on the ball of his right foot to wind up crouched on Faroul's left side. He quickly switched his spear to his right hand and assessed the situation. He quickly spotted the four armored individuals threatening the green-skinned giant as well as a skinny, brown-haired youth.

"Faroul, what say?" he asked without taking his eyes off the tableau unfolding before them.

[Hadrian]

Hadrian was brushed aside by more than one person, and schooled his ire rather than Fluxing his body full of djed to attempt some sort of retaliation. He had learned the value of conserving his djed in an emergency situation back on Sahova seasons ago, and so he backed up and stood when it wouldn't get him knocked over again, and trailed Cassandra to the comely Konti. Nilkayn was an acquaintance, but the was making unwise decisions and reaping the benefits of such. Hadrian had no wish to die. "Cassandra, wait!" he called after her.

[Cilaes]

The horn's call had summoned someone, though Cilaes doubted it was the result the Akalak had expected. Heavy, dark and dangerous the quad had easily cleaved a path to the green herald. The tightness that had taken hold of the small hemisphere was unlike anything the Ethaefal had ever felt on the peaceful Konti Isle. The violent stirrings seemed to cut through him, leaving Cilaes feeling naked, exposed and unprepared for the dangers of the outside world. He studied medicine, plants, not war. Suvai's were for Konti alone, and the gentle woman were unlikely to teach combat to an outsider. It wasn't as though Mura had a boxing ring. Though Cilaes had never thought he would need to prepare for such a moment Talen certainly had. The young man left the Ethaefal, drawing his weapon and joining the bristling group around the horn blower and the dark warriors. I'm not even certain I have any useful supplies in my pack, this fight is not for me. But the shrill ring of metal blades exposed hummed through his mind, stirring up words he had heard from Kanis Obvala years ago. "Those who follow Rak'kel never turn their back on an injured person, never easily renounce a soul to Dira, the dark lady. No matter the situation, no matter your own ability you have studied medicine to save life. That is not a skill to be wasted." I may atleast be able to stop the bleeding, if it comes to that, he thought, edging closer to the group, praying his scant skills would not be required.

[Zlakalia]

"Kali..." She repeated aloud, amused by the boy. The nickname cooled the hatred she was feeling towards him, he was an adoring fan! 'Kali' smiled; this really would work to her advantage. The horn, seemingly just a loud annoyance at first, quickly gathered to a point of massive annoyance, destabilizing her form if for only a moment. And just like that the fury she had just relinquished returned, Kali's mind flashing to the most passionate embrace of all: a blade sliding through a supple gut. But even as the sound faded Kali didn't have long to ponder new ways to fulfill her blood lust. The floor was shaking, a clear growth. Something was coming and no one else seemed to notice! Kali looked up to speak just as she was snatched up by the young man, who now had some strange ice throne on his chest. She was dropped inside quickly and Miro was off, running towards the man who just moments ago mired her just cleaned emotional state. A battle was brewing concerning four men. It seemed dozens of people had suddenly jumped up to defend the green giant, and Kali caught herself just staring at his impressive height. She'd not seen anyone that tall in so long; the towering frames of the Akalaks always shocked her. 'Hmmm...' Kali could probably convince him to pick her up to 'say something important to you, Tall man', get a good shot at his eye. The fall would hurt, but... 'No, I still can't hit anyone!' Frustration overtook her, this whole place was one tireless act after the other. At least if the fight were to complete itself she might get some blood on her. The shirt that lined the basket was starting to get cold around Kali. She wrapped herself in her cloak, trying to keep a little warmer. She starting focusing on her own djed, making a shield she could expand if need be. At the very least to protect herself if Miro fell in the battle he had gotten them both into. "Just don't get me killed." Kali stated quietly and hopefully just to Miro, ready to focus on her shielding for the next few minutes.

[Bob Barton]

The want of answers from the akalak was beaten by some group of armed thugs wanting to establish some form of dominance over the group. The typical mentality of those who have strength and want to flaunt it as seen with the poor beggar. Bob hopefully won't get drawn into the fight being so useless in combat. Even with all the other people who seem to be against this black group, their confidence in the situation and equipment should show that they would be more than capable of beating everyone to the ground.

"Darik again..." Bob mumbled to himself hearing what the boy said. But in a way as usual the boy knew his stuff, and the fact of the matter is that it looks more likely that the group in black will win. And if there was looting to be had, Bob would also want a part in it so he should stay near the fight to call dibs later. Sometimes Darik becomes a really good teacher of what to do and what not to do.

To do this, Bob played his little game. Going up to the beggar to try and help him up. A part of Bob genuinely wanted to help the poor man, and the other part just wanted profit. While trying to help the man to his feet, Bob would do it from behind while saying loud enough "A victim won't help you be the leader, only answers you petching idiot! No one wants to follow an idiot." Really... Bob won't be following just anyone who tells him to. But yes, Bob will seem like a good person helping others but in reality he is also using the man as a shield in case anything happens. This way he would be able to stay indifferent and join the winning side in the end.

[Satu]

In the midst of chaos, in the swirl of feeling, one emotion captured Satu’s HeartSense, foreign as its nature was to all other emotions around her. Desire. Satu’s level gaze traveled the crowd swiftly, to finally land upon a tall young man from which it emanated. Her eyes rested upon him, silent and aware, as if to say, “I know… I know what you feel, human.” Nearer to her the dark haired woman still stood, and her emotions registered Adoration, and within it Trust. Satu’s gentle demeanor was one of love, and acceptance of the task the woman had given her. But it was Kamalia who answered her qeation, and Satu only added, “Do not fear, I am here for you...” She would say no more to her charge, now that the Cordas threads were laid beautifully along her body, the need for secrecy was too great. So Satu turned back to Kamalia, and dismissed the woman, though not unkindly. “…And may She shed light upon the mysteries…” Satu’s lyrical voice sang the almost forgotten words, though Satu’s mind was on Kamalia’s magic and remembrances of the way those forgotten arts had touched her friend’s Heart, with dark and reaching tendrils that clouded and darkened the Heart Vessel. Long ago, it had worried and concerned her. But now, Satu felt its strength empowering. The madness within the Konti welcomed her friend’s transformation, even though it might appear malevolent and heart-crushing. Was transformation worth such a price? Yes! Yes! There were no doubts in Satu’s mind. To grow high, to fulfill the high purpose one must be brought low to find Strength… and Power! Lovingly, Satu took Kamalia’s hands, and brought them to her own powerfully, beating Heart. “It was not your time… to face the Darkness. Your time is close… I will help you and guide you, though to the other side.” Honestly she spoke, for that was the nature of their people; there was no need to hide what a Konti knew or felt. “You will come out stronger dear Kamalia…” and Satu meant every word. Slowly she lowered her friend’s hand, only to be touched by another. Kamalia’staff blocked a man, and Satu turned. Ash’ney. Serenely she looked upon him, as if he had run across her in a market square. A small smile formed upon her rosy lips, as she watched the great Fear swirl madly within him. She didn’t move, or answer for long moment. “Ash’aney, my Protector. You have found me.” Satu said as if his finding her had only been a test of his loyalty, his willingness to serve her. Sagallius’ marked had not forgotten his vow, and her brilliant gaze shone with the power of it. “You have come…” Satu whispered to him over the staff. Then, like a bird taking flight, one opalescent hand lifted, and reached out to touch upon the magic user’s staff, to push it away. And She knew! Her breath quickened. Satu knew who it had come from. Sagallius! How her Heart yearned for him! Her eyes flew to Kamalia’s, and her shapely brow lifted to question, as the delicate hand remained upon the staff, touching what He had once touched. But the horn sounded, and the reverberations followed… Satu grabbed her ears, to cover them from the ache of it. And then the men argued, and more chaos followed. Unconcerned, the Konti watched as their Hearts played colors furiously. But Satu survived in her own world, nothing touched her. Nothing had touched her deeply for a long, long while, so removed was she from the normal workings of the mind. There was no Fear within her. The dark haired woman urged her to flee, but Satu was steadfast. The girl pulled her hand, but the suvai fighter’s natural balance, and strength of wrist were no match for the simple woman. She only watched, without joining the pathetic tussles for control. What did they know of leadership? Of strength? They were like all men, eager to battle, to kill… Soon her beloved god would free all peoples from such madness as theirs. The Konti slowly shook her head, unnaturally white curls framing her face, “I will stay here. You can not run forever… if you wish to grow.”

[Cassandra Coven]

The Konti refused to budge so Cassandra left her to stand there as she slipped through the throng of people. These non-humans sure had strange notions. If they wanted trouble so much, they could have it. As for herself, she wanted to avoid it as much as possible. She moved as far away from the confrontation as possible, but a voice behind her still called out her name... "Andry!" Cassandra gasped in both relief and recognition when she turned to find that it was the scholar who had trailed her. She had initially thought that one of the Black Sun patrolmen had identified her and panic started to bud in her heart once more. It was good to know that it was just her fellow Zeltivan. She clutched at Andry's arm as she pulled him down to crouch beside her, behind the desert warrior with the spear. She didn't know why she was hiding but it seemed like a good idea to do so. Members of the Black Sun were bad news. If these people did not know that, then they were about to find out. It sounded as if the foursome were being outnumbered, as relative strangers chose to stand beside the Akalak, but that has never deterred Rhysol's people before. Blood would be spilled if things did not calm down soon, the barmaid had no doubt. "There are Black Sun here as well!" she whispered to Andry, worry tainting her voice. Like the others who had asked him, Cassandra wanted to ask Andry too how they ended up here, and why they were even here in the first place. But the man hadn't given a concrete answer earlier, and he would not know for sure either, as he was a victim of the magic that brought them all here as well. And so the dark-haired woman swallowed her questions, and instead released a resigned sigh. "There...there will be violence soon, I fear."

[Faroul]

Though he possessed no Chaktawe senses, Faroul, too, heard the hiss of an unsheathing blade. It was a sound too deeply engraved in his instinct, his memory, his psyche, to ever be mistaken. Alert to the threat of violence, he slipped into a crouch beside Ma'ii, maneuvering into what stray pools of shadow lingered nearby. “Sword man, cut green one, take lead,” he whispered to the Chaktawe in Shiber. His eyes darted over the growing crowd, marking their positions and what weapons he could see. There was the hulking green Akalak with his spear; a slim youth with sword and shield; two red-haired women with bows; a boy with a bladed cane and strange ice-vest; and the four assertive mobsters. Two sheer white women hovered at the edge of the throng, as did a dark-haired lady, a darkly-clad man, and myriad others, too many to follow. He could not keep track of them all. Yet even without knowing their identities, the Benshira felt bloodshed was certain. All men fought to climb the chain of predation, devouring those below. Where he would fall in this grisly pecking order, he did not know. The beast paced in his breast, and he waited.