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Can you give me some real example of the game? The gameflow. Thanks!
Can you give me some real example of the game? The gameflow. Thanks!
Cirno's personality reminded Vita of Andrim. Those who weren't important at the moment, or important at all, were easily dismissed. Without a moment of hesitation, Cirno called for one of his guards to escort Elrik and Vita back to the Main Hall. Elrik fully minded being treated like some overused book that no longer required reading, but Vita had other things on her mind. She found herself reassessing Cirno's character just a few minutes ago.
During the discussion, Vita made sure to note several things about Cirno's non-verbal communication. For the most part, Cirno had listened with full focus. However, there were flashes in his eyes that only made Vita feel uncomfortable. It was like he was overlooking a game of chess, carefully stratagizing who he could use and who else might be useless. Oddly, Vita seemed to be one of his targets, for his eyes displayed suspicion towards her several times. Did that make Vita a suspect? The idea seriously disturb her, especially because Cirno didn't want her or Elrik leaving Nayru in case of questioning. What more was there to confess other than guilty or not guilty?
Then there was the reactions towards Nilak, Falteer and Balthazar. Once the three entered the conversation, Cirno's eyes glazed over with distrust. It was like the word "Tainted" was a magic word. Minathiel had used it as if to justify her reasons for turning against Nilak and his students. Did that mean Cirno used the word "Tainted" to shun Nilak, Balthazar, and Falteer from Nayru and beyond? Even though many things were uncertain to Vita, gossip wasn't. If the guard truly warned all the travelers of how a "Hero" suddenly became "Tainted," it wouldn't take long for both the truth and rumors to spread like wildfire. Obviously, no one would view the "Tainted" Nilak as Vita does: an elf full of concern for Kinrai's well-being, heart-ache for all that would suffer from his actions. They weren't the feelings of one who held no humanity. It was like...regret. Regret for all the misfortune that would follow from his dark, mysterious crimes.
Finally, Kinrai...how would he fair in all the lies and betrayal? Certainly, if rumors mixed with the truth, Kinrai would only be hurt by it all. And wasn't he hurting enough? He discovered that his teacher, the"Hero" of elves, was a dragon slayer, a "Tainted" criminal. Worse, whatever Kinrai felt after witnissing everything would twist into disturbing stories to everyone else. How long would it take before Kinrai became a prime suspect simply because he has ties to Nilak? Perhaps his wraith would also ruin his image.
There was something else: Cirno knew more than he would let on knowing. Whatever Elrik had been planning, it backfired. Cirno was the only one able to utilize the information they gave him to add to a greater knowledge. However, he did admit to a few things, whether he realized it or not. First, Kinrai would never be safe ever again. Second, the wraith inside of him acts like a poison, slowly consuming him. Thirdly, to handle such a possessive wraith, ethereal fire has to be used to "purify" Kinrai, which Nilak can utilize. Forth, Kinrai killed someone. All those things meant that Kinrai couldn't escape his wraith, and he hasn't seen the last of Nilak.
"...Vita, do you believe Cirno?" Elrik had apparently been talking with Vita, but she hadn't been paying attention at all. Recognizing Vita's blank expression as confusion, Elrik restated what he had been saying. "I was thinking about that last portion of Cirno's speach -- about Kinrai. Cirno mentioned something about Kinrai's wraith possibly being caused by his hatred for his father, Kinos Alte. Do you believe him?"
Regardless of what Vita thought, Oren was the one to respond. "Who cares?! What matters is that there's something dark and vicious inside Kinrai, and he has no clue about it! What if he kills someone -- no, he may have already killed someone!"
Vita felt she had the opportunity to speak, yet she only asked one word: "May?"
"Oh, well...I mean, you can't know if something is true until you see it with your own eyes, hear it with your own ears--"
"I get it. There will be many rumors spreading from henceforth. Someone being murdered by Kinrai could be false information, perhaps even misinterpreted by us."
"How about we interrogate the person himself? Kinrai still can't be napping, and we don't have much else to do. It still must be very quiet outside. At the very least, it'll at least pass time until the guards that were with Minathiel and Minathiel herself are found."
"About that...the way Cirno spoke about the guards that were with Minathiel, it was if he was blaming them for her death." Vita's face suddenly went pale upon remembering Minathiel's...corpse. Who would do that, to shread and slaughter Minathiel until she was barely recognizable as once being a living being, much less the same person? "...I'm sure that if and when Cirno views Minathiel's body, even he will realize those guards had nothing to do with her death."
"That may be true. Even I couldn't gaze upon Minathiel's state for too long. Still, everyone's a suspect until proven otherwise. Remember, we're not so innocent ourselves." Elrik's expression darkened. "I wonder when the interrogation will start?"
Vita couldn't bring herself to speaking anymore. Instead, she returned her thoughts back to Kinrai. Another word that Cirno mentioned popped into Vita's head that struck her as bizarre: "illness." Cirno had spoken of Kinrai's wraith as an "illness" near the end of his rant. Could he be cured, then? Or was it truly a disease that would only burden Kinrai into extinction? And...what caused him to hate to his father? Oren had tossed the subject aside, but revisiting the past was one of the key strategies to solving the problems of the future. Besides, Vita wanted to help Kinrai. Even though their time together was short, Vita already felt a connection to Kinrai. She wouldn't lose him to the poisonous wraith within him.
"Oh! I just remembered something! We both stayed quiet when Cirno inquired about why Nilak may not be the leader, but didn't Ramvil appear out of nowhere? He must have been sent by someone else! Could it be--!"
Suddenly, Elrik's hushed voice dissolved into silence. His eyes had drifted towards Kinrai, who, like Elrik had guessed, was no longer "napping." The guards that were with them were long gone, seemingly disinterested with following them all the way to the Main Hall. That was a good thing. If Kinrai was seen as too suspicious, more guards would stick to his side. However, Kinrai was able to move around freely. Oddly, Kinrai seemed unaware of his position, and it didn't take any communication for Vita and Elrik to cautiously stalk him without being seen.
Elrik was in the lead, with Vita close behind him. Kinrai was moving down the main hallway, the dimmed lighting and occasional vases on stands keeping the two hidden. Oren had figured out their plan awhile ago, grabbing Mina so that they could "watch over Liana." Fortunately, Mina didn't protest at all, which meant that she understood Elrik's personality very well for such a short time together. Keeping a steady pace, Elrik and Vita nearly closed the distance between them and Kinrai when he opened the main doors. Cursing their luck, Elrik dashed forward, tugging Vita behind the opened door in time to not be seen. That's when an odd voice called out to Kinrai.
Although Vita had never heard the voice before, she knew immediately that the person would tell Kinrai too much. Who else but an informed individual would begin a conversation with Kinrai by questioning whether he would chase after Nilak Venotre or not? Plus, from the way Kinrai worded "who," the person was far from normal. Worse, the mysterious voice spoke of Kinrai being seen as guilty, "as much guilty as Nilak is." The confirmation of her fears caused Vita's stomach to drop, and it became difficult to breath and stand. How could a few words make Vita feel so weak? Elrik appeared perfectly fine, intent on catching every word.
As the mystery voice continued speaking, Vita began to realize why the words troubled her so. First, Vita was becoming aware that she couldn't bare standing aside as the ones she cares about are hurt. If someone tried to threaten her friends and she knew for certain that they were far from "Tainted," Vita would do whatever she could to clear their names and reveal the truth. Second, all that the mystery voice spoke of would come crashing upon Kinrai through rumors. Kinrai the betrayer. He's just like his teacher. If Nilak's "Tainted," aren't all his students "Tainted" as well? Kinrai must be "Tainted." If the words of one mystery voice baffled and stunned Kinrai, how would thousands, millions of people affect him? It may be too much, even for Vita.
At the mention of "looking for someone to blame," Cirno immediately came to mind, as well as Minathiel. Vita understood that those two elves were just two out of many others who desperately tossed the blame on even the slightest suspicious person. Wasn't that what the word "Tainted" was for? Label a person "Tainted," live in peace until another disaster strikes. Was that how peace remained for such a long time? The moment those thoughts crossed Vita's mind, she realized that the mystery voice was saying the same thing. Suddenly, Vita didn't know if she understood the meaning behind "Tainted" because she thought about it for some time, or that the mystery voice was filling her head with ideas. "Voice of Reason"...could it be trusted or not?
"Come with me."
Without waiting to see if Vita had heard him, Elrik yanked her into a new hiding place. Kinrai paid them no mind as he headed back to the Main Hall, where his mother slept soundly with the fairies by her side. No words were exchanged, but Vita knew why: the mystery voice had opened Kinrai to the truth, and would make it harder to approach him again. How much did Kinrai know now? How much still eluded him? Lastly, how would Vita and Elrik be able to share before his trust in them was lost forever?
Last edited by lokuri; 12-28-2012 at 12:34 AM. Reason: Stupid new coloring doesn't show. >:/
Nurarihyon no Mago!
-- farag0n; Tales of AmnInpa: "...I got your mask already, look! Isn't it pretty?
Balthazar: Urgh.. !! It's pink..
Inpa: Oh please, it's called being metrosexual!..."
A sudden knock on the door startled Inpa from his thoughts. Tolbi jumped into the ceiling, clearly frozen in fear. Inpa took a small pipe from the floor and poked Tolbi with it. Tolbi screeched like a wild animal and fluttered on top of the kitchen table. The front door was right next to the kitchen so Tolbi could keep a keen eye on the door. "W-who could it be?" Tolbi asked with a slight stutter. "It could be a person I've never seen before with a wild beast with them. Who knows." Inpa shrugged and started walking towards the front door. Tolbi gasped and yelled out: "A wild beast?! I don't wanna get eaten!!" Inpa grabbed the handle of the door and pushed it open.
Outside stood a female elf with the traditional dark skin, short white hair and flaming red eyes of a dark elf. Next to her stood a beastkin who also had a very traditional coloring of a beastkin: Yellow fur dotted with black spots. "Huh. It's a person I've never seen with a.. Well, a beastkin. That still counts as a wild beast, right?" Inpa turned to look at Tolbi who was waving his arms like a madman, clearly trying to signal Inpa to shut up. It almost made him look cute since he was so small.
If Vice was fazed by the elf that had appeared in the doorway she didn't show it. Askari on the other hand was gaping as he let his eyes dwell over the elf in front of him. His blond hair with blue stripes was... strange to say at least, but with his big round ears and blue eyes behind his thick glasses he looked incredibly weird. In the light of this the actions of his little fairy were not noticed. Suddenly he realized that the elf had just insulted him. He snapped his mouth shut and stared angrily at the elf. "I shall tell you something!" He began angrily, but Vice interrupted him.
"Is this the former house of Balthazar?" She asked the elf.
Inpa turned back to the female dark elf with a slight look of surprise on his face, somehow managing to completely ignore the beastkin.
"Huh? I guess, yeah. He likes staying in that tree house of his nowadays though. You need him for something? He's retired but that has never stopped me. Come on in and take a seat." Inpa opened the door further and pointed the two towards the seats around the small kitchen. Tolbi was sitting on the kitchen table, fiddling around. He was clearly nervous, as if it was his first time seeing people who need Balthazar's help with something. Even though Inpa was in a hurry to tell what he saw to some authority, like Kinrai, he still felt he wanted to hear what the elf wanted. Vice practically shoved Askari inside, since the Beastkin was still fuming about the beast comment earlier, and sat down on one of the seats Inpa showed them. She took note of the fluttering fairy, but ignored it. Nyx rested peacefully on her head. She considered her words. From what the elf had said it didn't seem like he was aware of the fact that Balthazar had been proclaimed a Tainted.
"My name is Vice." She started, figuring that introductions were needed. "This is Nyx and the 'wild beast' here is Askari." Vice grinned slightly at the term. Askari glared to her, but he did not interrupt. Vice cleared her throat.
"We are looking for Balthazar." She said slowly not really wanting to explain right now what she wanted from the elf. "And I had hoped that you might know which way he had gone now that he has been.."
She paused for a moment. ".. proclaimed a Tainted."
The words from Vice's mouth were like bombs that exploded right in front of Inpa's face. Balthazar had been proclaimed Tainted? Inpa had to sit down in order to calm himself down. His lips were trembling and his hands were shaking. Tolbi had fainted and was now lying on his back on the table. After a long silence Inpa managed to blurt out his name. "Inpa.. my name is Inpa. He's Tolbi.." Inpa pointed at the unconscious little fairy. "But how.. that can't be right. It CAN'T be right.. Balthy would never.. Who told you that? Why would he be proclaimed Tainted?! What did he do?" Inpa looked at Vice with sincere eyes, desperate for an answer.
Vice drummed with her fingers on her knees. Askari shifted restless in his chair. He hated to be a deliverer of ill news and even though he didn't know anything about the elf before him, he felt sorry for the boy. Vice leaned forward, letting her head rest on her hands as she looked Inpa in the eyes.
"Valham died last night. It is said that Nilak along with his apprentices Falteer and Balthazar were the culprits. They have therefore been proclaimed Tainted by Minathiel herself and have thus been banished from here. It has been buzzing around town since dawn. I am slightly surprised you didn't hear it already. You, living here... being Balthazar's friend it seems."
"Balthy is more than just a friend to me.. he's like a big brother." Inpa fell silent for a moment which meant it was time for Tolbi to shine.
"Snap out of it Inpa! You know how Valham really died, just as I do! Nilak, Falteer and Balthazar had nothing to do with his death! It was.. the Inuiks who killed him.. !"
Inpa's eyes lit up and he looked at Tolbi.
"You're right!! Balthy is innocent! It was the Inuiks.. they are the bad guys here!" Inpa turned to Vice and Askari. "We saw them attack Valham deep in the forest. There was nothing we could do, there were too many of them. We also heard who their next target is. It's the fire dragon: Faen! You should be familiar with her, right kitty.. *cough*.. Askari? Since she's the guardian of Onomu."
Both of the guests fell silent at the sudden revelation.Vice sat back slowly as she considered Inpa's words. To Askari it all seemed a bit... unlikely. It seemed that Inpa and Balthazar were close, so of course the little elf would try to protect Balthazar by blaming someone else, but Inuiks? That was kind of farfetched. He looked over to Vice. Surely she would think the same. His face fell slightly when he saw the twinkling in her eyes.
"Inuiks?" Vice said. "That is interesting, very interesting. Now why would they do that?" She mused.
"Beats me. Guess they finally got fed up being the only race without a guardian dragon." Inpa said with a slight frown on his face.
This whole thing was getting complicated very quickly. With the mention of Inuiks, Vice's interest in the whole case only grew. "Before we go on I just want to mention that I am not responsible for any things that happen to you if you keep insulting my partner. Not that I really mind if something happens." She studied her nails and ignored Askari's foul look.
Inpa looked at Vice and then Askari. "Okay. You're cool, Askari. Can I ride you someday?"
"No." Askari growled. He looked like he was going to kill the little elf. "Moving on," Vice said forcefully as she dropped her hand and looked back to Inpa, "how come you know these things while the rest of the city seems to think something else, more over why haven't you told anyone yet?"
"Because I was.. doing extensive research in the forest and I happened to stroll into the middle of Valham's execution?" Inpa said before his gaze fell. Tolbi gave a loud snort to that remark. Vice looked impassive to the two.
"Liar. Just admit it that you got lost in the forest." Tolbi tapped his foot on the table while looking at Inpa.
"Looks like I'm having fairy stew tonight." Inpa grinned before looking back at Vice. "Anyway we just got back. I'm.. pretty sure we are the only witnesses of Valham's death. I was just about to leave before you two showed up behind my door. I'm going to tell Kinrai Alte what happened there. I'm hoping he will relay the message to his father. Someone also has to warn Faen about the Inuiks. We can't let them kill any of the other dragons!" Inpa slammed his fist on the table which made Tolbi wobble around a bit.
"And Kinrai Alte again appears in my conversation." Vice mused. "Twice in one day. How strange..."
"So what are we still waiting for?! The longer we wait, the harder it will be for us to get to Kinrai, right?" Tolbi almost yelled out. How strange it might seem Askari nodded along with Tolbi. Faen was his protector.
The dragon of the hard land of Onomu. Now he knew he could not do much for his country - he was pretty much a good for nothing Beastkin - yet it seemed that maybe finally there was a chance for him to make himself useful.
Vice smiled slightly at the people getting all fired up.
"Heh. You're right for once Tolbi!" Inpa chuckled and walked over to the front door. He opened it and looked back to Vice and Askari.
"Sorry that I couldn't help with your problem. Once I find Balthazar, I'll be sure to tell him to find you." Inpa stood there, waiting for the two to get up and leave.
"I'll tell him myself." Vice said as she rose from the seat and adjusted the cloak over her shoulders.
"Huh?" Inpa said and exchanged looks with Tolbi.
"Mister Alte has shown interest in my work. I'm sure he won't mind it if I tag along with you." She stepped through the door. If this elf was going to find Balthazar, then by Arlith she would not let him out of her sight. She looked back to Inpa. "What are you waiting for?"
It took a moment for Inpa to register that Vice just spoke to him. Without saying a word, he just nodded and closed the front door of his house. Tolbi fluttered next to Inpa's ear and whispered to him.
"Did she just invite herself along?"
Inpa shrugged before replying. "I guess. Well the more the merrier! Besides now we have a pet--.." Askari snarled and looked with a glance of intense hate to Inpa. If this elf wasn't going to shut it soon, Askari would make him shut up. For good. ".. a perilous warrior companion!" Inpa tried to correct himself.
"So," Vice said, "how about you tell me something about Kinrai?"
"Well, to be honest I don't know too much about him. Just that his mother is Minathiel's advisor and his father is Kinos Alte.. and I guess he's Nilak's apprentice too, just like Balthy." Inpa fell silent for a moment. Askari snickered slightly at the nickname. "I just can't believe how quickly everything went so bad. This was the worst Moon Day ever."
Inpa looked up and noticed a single stall in the marketplace. Surprisingly it was a dwarven merchant. How he had gotten through the guards standing at the main gate was a mystery.
"Nothing beats a dwarf's greed I guess." Inpa said as they kept walking towards the palace. "By the way.. what is this work you do, Vice?"
"Cartography." Vice replied.
Inpa was drawing a blank here.
"I make maps." She clarified, seeing Inpa's face. "Thus I travel a lot. Askari is my work partner."
"Sounds cool. How long have you been doing this?" Inpa asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.
"All my life." Vice's reply was stern.
Inpa turned his gaze to the palace which was right in front of them. As the small group got closer to it, a sudden redundant chant drifted into their ears. From one of the backalleys of Nayru emerged a group of people dressed in white robes decorated with red triangles. They were chanting loudly, in fact they were so loud that Tolbi's ears started ringing. Nyx was as usual hidden in Vice's hair, but Vice could feel her shudder slightly. The chanters began to spread over the marketplace. "The End is coming! Embrace the End of all existence! The Hero of the End has risen!"
"What's going on.. ?" Inpa said as he eyed these odd people in white.
Askari stared with full confusion at the moving chanters. Vice frowned. One of the elves dressed in white approached the little group and grabbed Inpa from his sleeve and started dragging him along.
"Whoa whoa! Let me go!"
"Join us boy! The End is near! Chant with us."
"The End? What are you talking about?!" Inpa yelled at the elf.
"Haven't you heard about the Hero that has risen tonight? The Hero that will bring us all to the End? He will save us all!"
"He can't mean.." Inpa was having a difficulty saying the truth out loud.
Vice decided this was a waste of her time. Freaking lunatics. She strode over to Inpa and dragged him out of the grip of the elf, whose voice had begun to rise in volume as he talked more and more.
"Wah.. !" Inpa gasped as Vice snatched him from the cultist's grasp.
"There is no escape from the End! Join the Dustmen before the final song is sung! Weep with us, celebrate with us while we wait for the fall of Amn!" The cultist yelled out before turning back to his brethren.
"We are going!" She said, pulling Inpa along. "Askari, come on." The Beastkin followed obedient, but kept glancing back to the strange happening. "Who do they mean by 'The Hero of the End?'" He asked.
"Nilak." Vice replied without looking back to him. "The Dragon Slayer and possibly..." She looked over to the dazed Inpa, "his accomplices."
"Balthazar is innocent!!" Inpa yelled before storming off towards the palace. He was getting tired of hearing all this talk of Nilak being a villain.. and especially Balthazar.
Vice cursed and sprinted after the young boy.
Inpa walked so fast that his surroundings were turning into a blur. Soon he found himself at the bottom of the steps which lead into the palace. He looked over to his left and saw Vice and Askari running towards him. Inpa continued and soon reached the top of the stairs. The palace doors were enormous and guarded by two soldiers in blue armor. Inpa considered for a moment. If he just tried to run through, the guards would grab him with ease. However.. if a sudden explosion happened, Inpa could walk right past the guards. He reached into his bag and pulled out a small ball made of copper. It was a homemade bomb, something which Inpa liked to use when brute force was necessary. He tossed it between the two guards and when the ball hit the ground, it shattered and caused a small explosion which hurled both guards into a wall.
"Two birds with one stone! Even Balthy would be proud!"
"He would also be pissed at you Inpa. Look at what you did to the door." Tolbi pointed at the wreckage left by Inpa's bomb.
The bottom half of the door was in splinters while the top was still perfectly intact. Inpa studied the door for a moment before shrugging.
"Well this place needed a new look anyway."
Vice, who had just arrived behind Inpa, whacked the elf on his head. Hard. "How stupid are you? Didn't you want to tell them that Balthazar was innocent? How do you think they are going to respond to you now?" She cursed again. "You are ruining my appointment."
"OW! That hurt! Well.. at least now they'll acknowledge us!"
"Get real! They are more likely to throw us out now." Vice huffed.
"Lighten up! They can TRY throwing me out!" Inpa yelled and ran inside. "KIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINRAAAAAAAAIIIII!!!!! " Was heard only seconds after Inpa's entrance. With a roll of her eyes Vice decided to give up and follow the elf inside along with Askari. It was too late to fix it anyway.
The inside of the palace was gorgeus, as one might expect. A red carpet was laid down on the middle and white marble pillars were scattered alongside it. The paintings that were hanging on the wall were worth a fortune. Inpa could only imagine how much they had cost. As he kept walking, he finally saw a familiar looking guy standing next to two other elves who were lying on the ground. From the corner of his eye he also noticed two moon elves standing behind one of the pillars. Inpa waved at the elf in the middle and yelled out: "Hiiii! I'm Inpa! Your friendly neighbourhood genius scientist and inventor! Are you Kinrai Alte? You guys need a new door by the way, and Balthazar is innocent! And I'm hungry!"
"Sir." Vice added calmly. She had appeared next to Inpa, Askari stood behind her looking extremely unsure about the whole situation. At least they'd made an entrance.
Last edited by farag0n; 10-18-2012 at 11:15 PM.
Calm down people, it's just me.
After the initial panic of Andrims magic activating the healer stayed with them for some time more until she deemed it safe enough to leave and take care of her other duties, telling Direya to direct Andrim to the captain of the guard when he awoke. Apparently the moon elf and her friends testimony had not been enough and instead of simply asking the conscious fairy they turned their eyes to the knocked out elf like a bunch of idiots. Sighing she took a tour around the sickbay, all of the patients were asleep but none of them seemed to be in any real danger from what she could see, a few muttered phrases from nightmares was the most exciting thing happening.
The room itself was simple unlike the corridor as it lacked its decorative carvings. Maybe somebody figured that patients have no strength to appreciate the details. As for the furniture it was nothing special, the beds the patients slept on together with a table next to each bed and a few chairs and two tables lined alongside the wall for any visitors to use. Except for those, unconscious patients and the last attendant, no there he left as well, the place was deserted. Utterly devoid of any real emotion and mind numbingly boring and yet she felt that was just what she needed. The whole day had been a mess, Andrim had killed the blacksmith and Minathiel, but no they had she corrected herself. She had allowed it, even helped plan some part so why did she now feel so bad?
Returning to her friends side she reasoned that at last the rest of the day should be calm, giving her some time to wrestle with her thoughts. Just as soon that thought had faded Andrims eyes opened quickly searching the room before he got up
At last, I began to think they never leave he said as he picked up his possessions, apparently completely unaware of one important fact.
Eh, Andrim just how long have you been awake?
Im not sure, a few minutes perhaps, how so?
Well, your clothes were pretty bloody so they got rid of them, do you know what youre wearing?
I thought it felt a bit breezy first now he noticed the hospital gown he was wearing, it resembling very much a wide white dress. That together with the dismayed look on her friends face Direya couldnt help but smile, he did look rather ridiculous. The captain of the guard wants to see you by the way
Of course he does, why didnt they just ask you? Well doesnt matter now. Either way he have to wait cause I refuse to see him looking like this, come along Direya were getting me some new clothes Walking out into the corridor carrying a sword, a wooden box, his hammer and the odd object Ramvil had given them Andrim was the spitting image of a confused patient, most likely one with a dangerous mental illness shambling along.
The last likeness must have struck some of the priestesses and visitors who gave the pair odd looks but before anybody could say anything Andrim had swiftly walked past them, almost running with gritted teeth. As embarrassing he found the situation she had to admit to herself she found it rather fun, it was seldom she saw Andrim embarrassed these days.
Eventually they found themselves in one of the outer gardens linked to the temple. This part of the temple was beyond the boundary of stone, a small fountain shaped as a flower with water running through it and flowers and herbs placed in the garden to both serve an aesthetic and practical function as it held many of the medical herbs the priestesses sometimes used when pure magic couldnt help their patients. For the moment the garden was deserted except a young man dipping his feet playfully in the fountain, his broom tossed down carelessly at the floor.
Oh thank the moons Andrim muttered as he walked over to the elf. Hearing footsteps the servant scrambled out of the fountain onto his feets until he caught sight of Andrim, all of the energy born out of panic evaporating at an instant. What are you doing here? Patients shouldnt be walking around you know, especially with a sword. Give that to me ignoring the outstretched hand Andrim walked over to one of the benches where he put down his burden except the purse before he turned his attention to still outstretched hand. Now I want you to get me some proper clothes, shirt, pants, boots the whole deal he said as he placed a few rubens into his hand, the faster the better, I dont want to wear this any longer than I have to so hurry along.
Eh, I cant just leave my job, what if somebody found out I left?
You had enough time to take a break you have time to do this
Yes but still, its me risking being found out here you know He said with a calculating look at Andrims purse.
Sighing in annoyance Andrim added another few rubens to the growing pile of money.
But I suppose nobody will miss me for a short trip outside. I be right back just you wait here with a dash the elf was away, apparently eager to accomplish his task but most likely hopeful he earn a tip if he was quick.
Well that went well, you sure youre alright by the way Andrim? It was a pretty serious wound you took Looking at her light dawned in his eyes as if he first now remembered hed been seriously injured, I thought I forgotten something. Things are a bit sketchy around that part he said as he lightly touched the place where hed been cut, then more boldly until he seemed satisfied, but Im alright, the priestesses know their job after all.
After that they sat in silence, Direyas still body making an odd contrast to her mind which raced ahead about how she should bring it up. Oh screw it, theres no good way to bring this up she thought. We need to talk, about Minathiel-she stopped as Andrims hand went to his mouth, his whole body shaking slightly. Please dont mention that Direya and for a second she thought with a spark of hope that he was feeling queasy by his actions, but no as his whole body shook she realized what it was, he was trying to suppress his laughter. Hey Andrim cut it out, this isnt funny!
I-Im sorry but you reminded me so suddenly and it just struck me motioning her closer he whispered I had it all planned out for how she would die, but what happens? A madman comes and gives me the perfect opportunity just like that he snapped his fingers. It ends, there is something slightly ironic how decades of waiting ends with me stabbing myself. With the same blade which bore her blood a look of realization quickly changed to nausea Disgusting. What was I thinking? I hope the water brought it all out, but we talk about this later it appears my clothes have arrived the elf was walking briskly towards them. Arms loaded with the requested garments. A red shirt coupled with a pair of gray leggings, standard leather boots for his feets, a leather strap and a jacket made out of rough leather with the last finishing touch being a cape.
Andrim had learned from experience that affording elegant clothes was often a waste of rubens between travelling and the times he needed to get rough. Durability was what he demanded from his clothes these days.
Good, I take this. Now is there anywhere I can change? Last thing I need is to be spotted naked out here bringing forth one last ruben the servant showed them to a cabinet where he could change. Once done, clothes put on and possessions safely strapped on he threw his previous clothing to the elf with instructions to bring it back to the sickbay and left. No money followed this last request, Andrim wouldnt pay one more ruben, he had what he wanted now and the return of that clothing was of no real interest to him she knew.
Now then I believe its time to commit to our duties and give a report
Sure thats a good idea? If you laugh again what do you think happen?
Then Direya there most likely be hell to explain
__ _______
Making his way towards Cirnos office Andrim knew he should figure out what to say but he just couldnt focus, ever since he woken up he felt excited, almost giddy.
He had even laughed earlier, what if somebody had seen him? It didnt take a genius to figure out that somebody laughing, especially one having seen Minathiels death had a foul part in it somewhere.
Yet despite this he just couldnt bring himself to really care. Minathiel was dead and already everything felt better because of it, or was it the lasting effects of him being healed?
Either way it all felt good, well almost everything he reasoned with a glance at Direya. She had seemed oddly displeased and he couldnt for the life of him figure out why. Just another question amongst many, who was Ramvil, who was this mysterious organizations leader or was there really one? The thought of the whimsical yet undoubtedly psychopathic elf having a master struck him as an odd idea. He hadnt looked like the type to take orders. All Questions that he had to find the answer for later he knew as he presented himself to the guard in front of the door who let him into the office.
The room was what one would expect from the Spartan guard captain, no painting of his family or any other obvious personal item along his desk but instead only documents and a quill taking up the surface of the oaken desk. The rest of the room was equally devoid of distracting elements, the walls devoid of paintings or decorations, the floor covered with a simple rug and in front of the desk wooden chairs which one could tell with a glance would be uncomfortable. Maybe Cirno reasoned nobody should feel comfortable before a guard, made one wonder what he did when somebody of a higher rank came, offered up his own chair perhaps.
Greetings Captain, I was told you wished to see me?
Andrim was it? Yes I did, I already been filled up on the situation by Elrik and Vita, the other two moon elves who were present So that was their names, hopefully he wouldnt ever need to meet that pesky moon elf again.
The interesting thing is that they say that you three, this elf called Ramvil and Minathiel brow furrowing as if it physically hurt to say her name, not that Andrim could truly blame him as Cirno had failed one of his primary duties. That you suddenly disappeared and when you returned, you know how it looked then.
Sorry captain could you describe it for me? Minds still a bit foggy Im afraid Damn it dont rile up the captain of the guard you idiot!
Lady Minathiel was dead, her body beyond any means of resurrection and you stabbed in the chest with Ramvil gone he said grimly. Now how could this happen, I been told you had this Ramvil in your custody so explain Cirno said with distaste in his voice, directed towards the situation or towards him Andrim couldnt say. A bit of both he reckoned.
Now to find out exactly how good a liar he was Truth be told Im not sure what happened. Ramvil somehow transported us to another realm, no other way to explain it. It looked as Valhems nest but devoid of all colors, once there Im ashamed to say Ramvil took opportunity of my state of shock. Wrestling the dagger and stabbing me with it and then Do not smile do not smile then he killed her
I never heard of anybody teleporting to another realm but the moon elves also told me you suddenly disappeared. But why did he leave you alive? I understood you threatened him just moments before
Captain the man was clearly a psychopath, who can tell why he does anything? I certainly cant
I be worried for whoever could Cirno said scribbling down at his documents Nothing else he said? Anything we could use to track him down
Lets see, hes part of a secret organization he invited me to, oh and he also left me a device to summon him with. Nothing, I blackened out shortly afterwards. Im afraid that wherever he has gone we got no connection except for his link with Nilak
Who is after the dragons, yes with a last scratch of the quill he set it aside. Truth be told Andrim if you had just killed him as you should this could have been prevented, he was tainted and deserved no trial. Why?
The image of a young moon elf pleading for the life of a complete stranger flashed before his eyes The voice of mercy spoke to me. A naïve voice but one I felt compelled to listen to at the time thinking we could interrogate him later. Obviously I was wrong
You were. There is no room for mercy against criminals and tainted, especially in such a chaotic situation you were in, just look what it has caused!
Yes, I expect mercy to be a foreign notion to you captain thoroughly tired of the conversation Andrim opened the door But since you were the one responsible for her safety I hope for your sake it's a more familiar idea for your superiors Closing the door behind him he already wondered whyd he said that, in the past he would have stayed polite and calm he knew.
His musings were interrupted by a large blast originating somewhere in the direction of the entrance, within moments the guards just as confused as him rushed past to find out the origin of the disturbance. Cursing his luck he followed after them to the entrance. The lower half of the door had been blasted off its hinges, scattered parts of it lied on the floor but whoever did it had either instantly left or taken another way out. Taking a closer look he saw the two guards on duty lying in a heap next to the wall, the blast must have taken them out as well.
Ignore them he called over to one of the guards who made an attempt to lift his unconscious comrade up, Whoever did this might be inside the temple. I-
What the hells going on here? Cirno roared rounding the corner after them, taking in the whole scene he immediately began barking out orders.
You go and alert the other guards, you two follow me. Andrim youre in any shape to fight? Professional to his very fingertips he ignored Andrims last comment in the face of failing his duties a second time.
Yes At least he thought so.
Good, I be damned if anybody else will die today on my watch Running towards the main hall where Kinrai and his mother last had been sighted they followed him and found a scene out of every guards nightmare. Two unknown elves and a beast kin standing in front of Kinrai, there were no visible weapons but with a beast kins claws and an elfs natural magic that was no reassurance.
Any careless movement made might send them from standing in front of Kinrai to capture or kill him, especially as they hadnt tried to mask their sudden rushed entrance to the hall and lost any chance of surprise. He believed that Cirno summed up his own thoughts on the situation pretty well.
Who are you, what do you want?
After Cirno had explained his plan, the Elder Council fell silent. Garmilio's wrinkles were emphasized only more as his inner brows sunk. It was hard to tell whether he was angry or deep in thought. He had tucked both his arms within the white sleeves of his robe. Kinos stared at Cirno with a chilly look, as if trying to burn through him with just his gaze. Ka'Tar scratched the back of her neck and kept looking down. She didn't like Cirno's plan at all. How could he toy with someone's life like that? Not to mention that it was..
Kinos: You would go this far in order to catch Nilak, Falteer, Balthazar and this mysterious fourth person? Kinos said with clear dissatisfaction in his voice. The sharpness of his tone was as prominent as ever. Ka'Tar could almost picture the words Kinos spoke as swords that flew out of his mouth.
Cirno: Yes. I will sacrifice anything to catch them, even my own life. Cirno wouldn't back down even an inch, that much they all knew. Ka'Tar knew that they could prevent Cirno from doing it, but considering what the circumstances were.. she was afraid Kinrai would be in danger no matter what.
Garmilio: You seek vengeance for the death of Valham and.. Lady Minathiel, may the Netherworld embrace her soul. What has the boy done to deserve such a fate? Is there evidence that he is connected to Nilak's betrayal? Ka'Tar was relieved that Garmilio shared her feelings about Cirno's plan. Kinos would undoubtedly go along, it was his son after all, right?
Kinos: It doesn't matter whether Kinrai is involved with Nilak's betrayal or not. The only thing that matters to the common folk right now is the fact that Kinrai is Nilak's pupil. That makes him an enemy to them.
Cirno: I am glad you understand, elder Kinos. If we give the common folk what they want, which is Kinrai's life, then we will avoid a severe outlash from the public which would inevitably come were Kinrai to remain in the books of the living. We can't afford to let any riots start. It would tear Nayru completely apart, let alone the rest of Amn. Kinrai's execution would also serve as the perfect bait. With it we can test whether Nilak is willing to let Kinrai die after all the trouble he went through to save him.
Ka'Tar: .. Just shut up! How heartless can you be?! And you too Kinos! Kinrai is your own son! How could you even consider that.. ?! Ka'Tar had had enough, she would've never thought that Kinos could be this cruel. Kinos turned and gave Ka'Tar a solemn look before replying.
Kinos: Don't put words into my mouth, elder Ka'Tar. If you wish to remain as an elder, you will refrain from these childish outbursts of yours. We are dealing with a crisis here so retain your composure. I never agreed to Kinrai's execution. However.. the execution ought to still happen, just without Kinrai himself. Ka'Tar ground her teeth and almost hissed at Kinos, she managed to keep her cool for the moment though.
Cirno: Hmm.. I suppose it could work. Then how do we convince the people that it is Kinrai who is receiving the punishment?
Kinos: Indeed, that is a problem. Do you have any suggestions, fellow elders?
Garmilio cleared his throat before speaking.
Garmilio: Now am I the only one who thinks it's foolish to execute someone just to make the common folk feel better?
Ka'Tar: You're not the only one.
Kinos sighed before replying.
Kinos: At times like these you have to think rationally about the situation, not emotionally.
Garmilio: I do all my thinking with my heart, elder Kinos. That is who I am, it is the way of the dwarves. Now explain to me how in Valham's name do you rationalize someone's execution, be it Tainted or not?
Kinos: It is the basic principle of wanting something. We give the people what they want and in return they are happy. The fact that we give them someone's life is meaningful only if you feel guilty about it. As elders we must make harsh decisions and feeling guilty about them is a sign of weakness, and that is the last thing we need from an elder. Do not bring this up again, elder Garmilio.
Garmilio went silent and only let out a long sigh.
Cirno: As I already said, this is all to give the people what they want and it is also a test to see whether Nilak still cares for his student. This act will create a sense of safety within the common folk which ensures that there will be no riots.
Ka'Tar: And if Nilak doesn't show up? And what about Kinrai himself? If he is supposed to be dead, then he has to be put somewhere where no one will ever find him. Is that something you want for your son, Kinos?
Kinos contemplated briefly on Garmilio's words, and even Cirno seemed to have fallen in his thoughts. Ka'Tar felt relieved for the first time during the meeting. Now if only these two would realize how stupid their plan was, everything would be just fine.
Kinos: Whether Nilak shows up or not is irrelevant. If he does show up he is a great fool.
Garmilio: And what of Kinrai, elder Kinos?
Kinos: Kinrai will be sent to become a Mithbleid. They are disconnected from the outside world, hence it is the perfect place for him.
The name Mithbleid rang a few bells for Ka'Tar. From what she could remember, the Mithbleids are warriors who battle against beings called the Seith. The Seith are practically folklore to the rest of Amn. In fact it had been a long time since the Mithbleids had contacted the Elder Council. It was common knowledge that the Mithbleids took anyone to be trained, even Tainted were sent there.
Garmilio: The Mithbleids? Now there's a word I haven't heard in a long time. Are you sure Kinrai will be safe with them?
Kinos: Kinrai will never be safe. Of that Nilak took good care of with this.. treachery.
A sudden, painful expression formed on Kinos's face which left Ka'Tar wondering if he knew more about this than he let the others know.
Cirno: You would trust your son to them? The Mithbleids are rotten with Tainted, they are nothing but scum.
Kinos: I did not ask for your opinion, Captain. Kinos answered, clearly dismissing Cirno's outburst.
Ka'Tar: Still, what Cirno said is true. The Mithbleids are infested with Tainted..
Kinos: The word 'Tainted' has no meaning to the Mithbleids. Your past is completely discarded once you become a Mithbleid.
Ka'Tar: Erasing someone's past doesn't mean that they change from the inside.
Kinos: Enough. There will be no further discussion of this. Let us return back to the matter at hand: the fake Kinrai.
Garmilio: Hrrmm.. It ought to be easy if we had a master of the earth element. The problem is.. who in their right mind would want to die?
Kinos: It's not a question of want since we shall pick some Tainted one to do the job.
Garmilio: Well I suppose that clears the second problem. Now how do we make this Tainted one look like Kinrai? I doubt we'll find a Tainted master of earth element.
Ka'Tar: Umm.. maybe use an illusion instead?
Kinos: Indeed. An illusion will serve our needs just fine. Captain, here are your orders. You are to find a capable illusionist post haste. Once you find the illusionist, go get some Tainted sod from the dungeons of the colosseum to serve as the fake Kinrai. I recommend cutting out his tongue, gag him if necessary. Then announce the execution of Kinrai to be held the day after tomorrow. Kinrai will be sent to the Mithbleid headquarters during the night. I recommend you send an armed escort with him. Are your orders clear?
Cirno: Yes, sir. I beg your leave, elders.
Kinos: Dismissed.
And so the elders vanished from the crystals lined up in the round room of the palace. Cirno turned around and nearly ran out, searching for an errand boy who could find him an illusionist. The elders themselves returned to their quarters without saying a single word to one another. As Ka'Tar was on her way to her own quarters, she overheard Kinos muttering to himself.
Sacrifices are necessary.. There's no other way..
So even Kinos had some kind of heart beating in his chest, Ka'Tar thought before moving on. She felt uneasy, it didn't feel right to deceive people like this but executing Kinrai would not come into question. In fact it felt absurd, just like Garmilio had mentioned, to butcher someone just because the people think he is evil. Why did I ever choose to become an elder.. ? To escape my brethren's disapproval? To gain fame and fortune? All we seem to do these days is postpone one crisis after another.. I fear for Amn itself if this keeps up.
Balthazar's silence was, to say the least, unnerving. Reed decided not to bother him any further. He got up and stretched around before turning his back to the camp. Nilak was half snoozing but still managed to raise his head and look at Reed.
Nilak: Leaving so soon? Don't let Balthazar's attitude scare you away. He's always like that towards strangers. Nilak threw a grin at Balthazar.
Reed: Oh, is that so? Well don't worry about it, darling. I have to get going anyway. A certain someone is already calling for me. I am so very wanted that sometimes I feel like they are tearing me apart!
Nilak: Heh, I see. Send my regards to Kinos if you go see him.
Reed: Hm? Ah, but of course. I'll come visit you soon. Tally-ho!
Reed waved and vanished into thin air as if he was never even there. The place where he arrived was not too far from the camp, it was on the road that split the Calm. A person in a golden mask was waiting for him. Reed grinned and bowed as he saw the masked person. Next to the masked person was the beast named Cerberus. Cerberus was a large white lion with black horns, similar in design as the horns in the masked person's mask. The beast also had a long black tail with a pointy end.
Reed: Well now, this is a rare occurrence indeed! Something important must've happened for you to summon me.
???: That is tRue. Kinrai's emotions are iN disarrAy. I fear he won't haVe what it takes to gO after Nilak.
Reed: Truly? Then again you've never lied, now have you?
???: PlaYing false is the saMe as non-exisTenCe. You of aLl people ouGht to heeD that adviCe.
Reed: You and your riddles.. when will I ever be rid of them?
The masked person turned and looked at Reed, though it's not exactly easy to tell since there were no eyeholes in the mask.
???: When I diE.
Reed: Oh, I can't wait. Reed turned his head to Cerberus. What made you bring your pet, though? Gonna fight? Reed grinned and licked his lips.
???: I aM an obstacle in KinRai's path, one that he must oveRcome in order to catch NilaK.
Reed: Works for me. If you happen to kill him, that'll just make things easier for us.
???: Kinrai will deFeat mE.
Reed: .. Oh how utterly droll. Then I'll just have to do it.
Before Reed was able to react, a tip of a sword was at his throat. The sword looked like a snake, sharp enough to slice his neck in half.
???: YoU wiLl noT inTerfere.
Reed: Think you can stop me? Come now, you can threaten me better than that.
???: FalSe ImMortAlity does not make you iMmuNe to pain, and I knoW how to deliver pAin.
Reed: Ha! They really knew how to pair us up, didn't they? The chemistry between us is outright deadly! Reed grinned and jumped back while black blades grew out of the ends of his sleeves. Shall we, Yorrvask? I'm itching to kill a certain someone right now!
Yorrvask stood like a stone statue before eventually sheathing his sword.
Yorrvask: No, wE sHall not.
Reed: Whaaaaaaaaaaaaat.. ? What a tease! You're terrible! Reed said with a pouty voice.
Yorrvask stood silent and watched the sea of green in front of them.
Reed: Hmph. If you have nothing else then I'll just take my leave.
Yorrvask: As I sAid, Kinrai is disHearteNed. He might not taKe up the Chase.
Reed: What does that have to do with me?
Yorrvask: You nEed him.
Reed: For what?
Yorrvask: FOr the future. He is a part of tHe Key you are loOkiNg foR.
Reed's eyes grew wide.
Reed: How.. ? He's nothing but an ordinary elf with some serious daddy issues.
Yorrvask: .. LieS, all oF them. Go now.
Reed stared at Yorrvask for a moment before vanishing again.
Kinrai only stood there next to his sleeping mother, brooding over the things that had happened. Why did Nilak do it? What in Valham's name was he thinking? What about Falteer and Balthazar? Why did they join up with him? Kinrai clutched his head and let out a faint sigh. That's when a small sound alerted Kinrai from behind him. He turned around quickly and saw two familiar faces standing behind one of the marble pillars. The female one's face looked almost scared, but the other one seemed calm. After eyeing them for a moment, Kinrai finally recognized them.
Kinrai: Vita.. Elrik.. !! You guys are safe.. ! A smile crawled its way to Kinrai's lips. He was so happy to see both of them again. What are you doing here? Wait.. no, do you have any ide- Kinrai's words were cut short by a loud bang followed by a yell so loud that Kinrai's ears started ringing.
Sunlight rushed inside the main hall as Kinrai saw three figures enter through the remains of the palace front door. He shielded his eyes in order to see them better and was finally able to make out their faces. Kinrai even recognized one of them, though that wasn't much of a feat since the boy was as memorable as he was loud. Kinrai remembered Inpa since he was Balthazar's infamous friend. Next to Inpa stood a female dark elf and behind them walked a beastkin, both who Kinrai had never seen before.
Inpa was the first one to talk and boy did he cram a lot of things into a single sentence. After the flood that came out from Inpa's mouth was over, Kinrai just stood there dumbfounded. He was still trying to piece everything together what Inpa had just said.
Kinrai: Yes, I'm Kinrai. Pleasure to meet you. I pretty much figured out that you must be Inpa. Kinrai looked over towards the front door and let out a small chuckle. Yeah, I guess they need a new door. I hope you have the rupees for it because you're definitely paying for it. Kinrai smiled and let out another chuckle. The dark elf had the courtesy to add sir to the end of Inpa's rant and it felt awfully weird to Kinrai. Not many people used it but it was a refreshing change.
Kinrai: So.. who might your companions be? Do you need something? Everything is a real mess here right now but I hope I can help.
Just as Kinrai finished talking, Cirno rushed into the main hall with a group of guards and who appeared to be Andrim. Andrim had changed his clothes and looked much better now than when he was taken away. Cirno's icy stare made Kinrai feel like a little kid all over again.
Cirno: Who did this?
Kinrai: Um.. he did but he is not a threat! Kinrai pointed at Inpa.
Cirno: Do you know these people? Cirno had unsheathed his sword and was pointing it towards Inpa, Vice and Askari. Kinrai looked at the three for a moment before replying.
Kinrai: Yes, I know them. They mean no harm.
Cirno: And yet they decided to destroy the palace's front door. What is this foolishness?! Explain yourselves!
ToA Character Sheet
Full Name: Reaver of Serim
Faction: The Mithbleid.
Age: 212.
Gender: Male
Race: High Elf
Theme: (We're still doing these right? xP) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFMK6...twoqkTB7Ry0dQi
Element: Wind
Reaver wields a strange blade which seems to respond differently under varying circumstances. The orb centrepiece which can be found embedded into the hilt of the sword changes colour under duress, often from white to blue, and from red to green. Reaver still knows not the reason behind this, and the effects that this has on either him or the blade itself has yet to be revealed.
Endis is a bluish-silver coloured bastard blade that contains a strange otherworldly aesthetic. The blade is quite long –a few inches longer than the average longsword-, allowing Reaver to sweep through groups of enemies in crowd-control situations. The blade is double-edged with the forward-facing edge curving outward to form its guard. The blade, although appearing heavy and weighted has been designed to be handled with either one or both hands – depending on the chosen fighting style. Endis does not have any distinctive pommel, and the unusual hilt contains a glowing white bright light which seems to respond to Reaver's kills.
Harbinger is a wrist-mounted repeater rifle which can fire a number of deadly bolts about 5 inches in length. The repeater is made from various numbers of materials, most notably the skull of an infant boar. The lower part of the jaw has been removed forming a sort of bracer around Reaver's forearm. Aside from the skull of a boar, the weapon contains a pair of tusks, fixed onto both sides of the weapon, and extending past Reaver's knuckle – if he is close enough, he can make a deadly kill.
Harbinger also contains a fast-loading mechanism which allows Reaver to fire off up to 9 bolts under quick succession before having to be reloaded again by inserting a strip of bolts into the mechanism, and ejecting the strip which bound the bolts together.
Reaver usually dips his bolts in the poison of an arachnous tibia matron, a spider which contains one of the most deadly poisons on Amn, so as long as bolts at least graze his target, they will grow fatigued, allowing Reaver to track them down and finally kill them.
Fairy: Saris – Purple
Appearance: [Information abrogated]
Reaver's apparel:
Magic Art:
The Aviary Dominion:
Combining his wind element with his love for rogue-like adventure novels, Reaver is been able to cast a powerful magic art which allows him to assume control of another being, whether it animal, insect, or even humanoid. He assumes the role of his chosen character, taking in their recent memories, opinions and even conversations. This ability comes into great use for tracking others down as he is able to speak with animals of the forest, or take on memories of others to help him on his hunt. However, when using this ability there is a risk that he will be shut out of that person's mind, which in turn shuts him out from his own body for a short period of time. He has learned to control this however; he has learned that it is those that are more suggestible to control are the minds he is able to invade much easier.
The symbol which represents this magic art is Reaver's own tattoo, a sprawling tree which covers the upper left region of his chest. During the casting of this magic, the tree grows around Reaver's body, covering him completely, his face and all, like a prison made from vines.
Reaver hailed from an isolated coastal village named Serim on the temperate North Eastern coast of Auburn, the magical cradle of the world. His story begins on the first day of summer, small gardens are being planted, animals are being raised, and the boats sail daily to fish and hunt. The village is home to about twenty-eight unmitigated families, population 152, that all know each other very well, and are very close knit; making outsiders feel uncomfortable in a community such as this. Each person - man, woman, and child, fills a significant duty within the village structure as either fishers, shipwrights, hunters, herdsman, weavers, trappers, craftsmen, elders, and blacksmiths. The hamlet survives well on the coastal cliffs but is fairly isolated from overland trade routes so Serim is impacted very little by news, politics and trade. In short it is a small blip on the map, content, and self-sufficient. They could be considered poor by those that come from the cities but they are not destitute and live fulfilled and simple lives. The village survives primarily on the harvest from the land, each family maintains small personal plots of land for growing simple provisions, raising small livestock, and creating simple commodities.
During the mid evening of the first day of the harvest festivities the villagers were enjoying a late afternoon of revelry, celebrating the wonderful day when the summer harvest begins. This festival symbolizes everything pure and gratifying, weddings take place, hatchets are buried, friendships blossom, vows are pledged, and in general the people eat, drink and are merry. Incense permeated the air, delicate vapours of smoke drifting from braziers that burn with the faint orange light of smouldering coals that smell of lavender. The evening moonlight spilled through opened windows as did the gentle sea breeze that carried the calm sound of waves that rocked against the cliffs below. Those waves were also what filled the air with the taste of salt and were the cause of the low vibrations that always rang through the crags of Serim like distant thunder.
Only the oldest of the village elders remembered a time when Serim was once spoiled by an almost supernatural infertility and low yield, healthy crops darkened and withered as the ground lay sterile and barren, leaving the land uncultivated for numbers of years. However, there had always been one forever constant in Serim, and that was the Evorglade tree, even during the time of infertility, the tree stood proud - as a symbol of hope and renewal. It was only when the lands became fruitful once more that the village as it is known today sprang, bearing a younger generation of elves, only accustomed to the harshness of winter's touch on the harvest. It was on this particular lazy summer's night however, during the festivities, that Serim would once again become victim to the end of a cycle.
Back then, Reaver was known by another name, and as another person, a farmer's boy who was quick-witted, intelligent, hard-working and polite. He also had a mother, the town healer who was sweet, caring, and passionate in her duties. His older brother, Elrond was an apprentice blacksmith who aspired towards great things – glory, honor, adventure and fame. It was Elrond's naivety that gave him the freewill to achieve almost anything that he wanted.
Like the rest of the villagers, Reaver joined in with the festivities alongside his brother, eating the darkened meat, and drinking hearty mugs of apple cider. He listened as the music and out-of-tune voices filled the air with cacophony. "What's your resolution for the new cycle then, brother?" Elrond howled, thumping Reaver's shoulder. "I don't know...I haven't thought about it." Elrond gave a glum look, before looking jovial once more "Well I'm gonna get a knighthood! That way I can get out of here and live like a prince, I'll be famous!" Reaver didn't respond, he knew that simple folk couldn't get a knighthood, he also knew that next week he would want to be a practitioner of magic, or perhaps even a master blacksmith, it was always the same with Elrond.
The festivities eventually moved to the magnificent Evorglade tree as the night wore on. The villagers would tell tales, recollect memories, and wind down before the celebrations would come to a relief. This was Reaver's favorite place in the village; he would sit amongst the dense roots of the oak, look up and count the leaves until he either got bored, or fell asleep - tonight was no different. So he sat there, counting the leaves until the crowds began to disperse, and began to retire to their homes for the night, until he was the only one left.
There was a sudden change in the atmosphere, a cold chill; each of the braziers systematically extinguished their flames. There wasn't a sound as Reaver began to close his eyes, drifting off into the comfort of the roots. The Evorglade shook against the gentle breeze, and Reaver opened his eyes one last time. The foliage began to darken, and redden before him - an omen. That was the moment his life would change course forever. It was darker than before, far too dark, even the trunk of the tree was beginning to darken, crumble, and weaken. It wasn't silent anymore; he heard something – something unnatural. He would never forget that voice, and the words that it spoke to him.
"Burn the Evorglade."
He sought the Mithbleid later, on his aimless travels through the land. He found himself before a black fortress, weathered and callous. A sign read: Ye who enter leave their past behind. He followed the path towards bastion, seeking shelter, training, and...Something else.
After what seemed a long journey, Reaver finally stood before the gates to his destiny. It was nothing like he pictured...splintered wood painted a harsh shade of black, signs of deterioration, but thick, heavy and it seemed capable of withstanding the wrath of a mighty giant. It looked as if he would cut his hand on the wood just by placing his palm on it, never mind knocking, but he did...and of course, splinters. "Oi, who there?! Answer meh!" Reaver heard from atop the ramparts, so he stepped back revealing himself to the gate's guard. "I'm...nobody, but I seek entry. I seek recruitment." The guard replied with a snort, and what seemed like a chuckle. "Open the gate! Oi, Cleavus, wake up ye sod!"
This was only the beginning for Reaver. It seemed like his past was forever guiding him to this destination. He looked behind him. Every twist, every misfortune, and every stroke of luck fated him to walk the path, and walk he did. The gate opened with an undulating cry, and without a hesitation he stepped inside, forgetting his past entirely. "Welcome, nobody." Reaver heard. He tried to locate the voice's source, but he couldn't. "Step inside, for your new life begins today. Those splinters on your hand, they are the first of the many challenges ahead of you." And on that day, they gained a new brother – but he had a far ways to go before he would fulfill his true purpose.


text:
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
471: Aversion Fads
|Aversion Fads
Title text: Hey, are you friends with any hamsters? This kite needs a passenger.
[edit] Explanation
To start, furries are people who are extreme animal "fans". Typically these are depicted as anthropomorphic cartoon or anime animals, but could also be real animals. And so, fans of said cartoons act out as their favorite animal by wearing ears and/or tails, sometimes building full fursuits to wear. Of course, there are a significant number of furries who take their interest even further, being very open about their more "intimate" interests, and even engaging in such acts with other people in real life, sometimes even in their fursuits (which may be specifically designed for such "adult" uses). This has caused other people to view furries in general with disgust.
Here, we see Cueball and his Cueball-like friend, who are grossed out that there is a furry (noted by the kid's fox ears and tail) near them. Megan then calls for the furry to help her with her kite. The way this turns out, she also thinks that furries are "weird as hell", but she is also irritated by the fact that a lot of people on the Internet are involved with a lot of weird things that may gross out or otherwise offend the general population, yet the Internet in general frequently mocks furries for engaging in essentially the same things. This hypocrisy bothers the woman, so she takes whatever opportunity she has to defend furries, who are, after all, people of the Internet.
Hearing this, the furry brings up the fable of the lion and the mouse (from Aesop). This fable talks about a lion who spares a mouse from being eaten, since the mouse's promise that he would repay the lion gave the lion a good laugh. In the story, the lion later gets caught in a trap and the mouse chews through the cords, freeing the lion. The furry now has a debt to repay Megan, but before we can get to that Megan curtails the simile, preferring not to use an animal-bondage-based analogy which might possibly arouse the furry.
In the title text, Megan realizes that her kite needs a passenger. So, she asks the furry if he has any hamster friends. Being a furry, this could be either real hamsters (which could be tied to the kite), or people who enjoy dressing as a hamster (which would probably be too large to be tied to the kite and remain buoyant). This may be a reference to 20: Ferret.
[edit] Transcript
- [Two Cueball-like guys stand together as a young guy dressed up with small ears and a tail approaches.]
- Cueball: Oh God, a furry. Don't let it touch you.
- [The furry hears someone call out to him.]
- Off-screen: Hey, kid.
- [Megan is seen preparing a kite to be flown.]
- Megan: Forget those assholes. Come help me.
- [The furry begins to help Megan set up the kite.]
- Furry: Thanks. So you're cool with furries?
- [The two are now standing far appart the furry with the kite and the line going over to Megan.]
- Megan: Well, I think your fetish is weird as hell. It just bothers me how you're this designated Internet punching bag among people who are otherwise down with weird fetishes. So I stick up for you when I can.
- [The kite now successfully up in the air and Megan pulls the line with both hands moving backwards.]
- Furry: Well, thanks. I owe you one.
- Megan: It's no big deal.
- [Megan stops some distance from the fury holding the line with one hhand. The fury lift one hand up apologising.]
- Furry: No, this is like the lion and the mouse.
- Megan: ...Listen, can we pick a comparison less likely to turn you on?
- Furry: Sorry.
add a comment! ⋅ refresh comments!
The inclusion of a Fox is notable, within the Furry community foxes are the most populous species [Citation: https://sites.google.com/site/anthropomorphicresearch/home ] and subjected to a degree of derision from other furs.
126.96.36.199 10:45, 12 January 2013 (UTC) Feefers (A Furry)
- Your mention of fox-morphism reminds me of Lady into Fox, from the 1920s... Probably not relevent, but perhaps interesting as a pre-Internet example that is not itself an ancient fable, legend or allegory. (No Rule 34ing, though, that I recall). 220.127.116.11 22:22, 11 June 2013 (UTC)
Does anyone know if this is Randall's actual opinion of furries? I've wondered that ever since I first read this comic. Leafy Greens (talk) 15:37, 16 November 2014 (UTC)It's possible that the "Hey, kid" line is a reference to the "Hey, kid, wanna yiff?" meme (possibly based on another, "hey kid, wanna see a dead body") which was made 4 months -1 day prior to this strip release, apparently for a furry pick-up line contest on FurAffinity [got this from knowyourmeme]. Also, the title " Aversion Fad" might be suggesting that the anti-Furry attitude/meme/whatever is just a fad or meme. 126.96.36.199 19:27, 6 September 2015 (UTC)


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Now that children in New York are learning that a couple named Bruce and Trevor can "marry," they're going to learn the fine art of unrolling condoms and using contraceptive foam.
That's the latest from leftist Mayor Michael Bloomberg's (pictured) New York, where the Department of Education has mandated that all school children get sex education rammed down their throats, regardless of parents' objections. Furthermore, he's aiming the program at blacks and "Latinos," whom he has singled out for special help, along with leftist billionaire George Soros, with his "Young Men's Initiative."
Parents Have No Choice
According to the New York Times, the mandatory nature of the program merely reprises something the Empire State had done before. The curriculum is mandatory for middle- and high-school students and "includes lessons on how to use a condom."
Click here to read the entire article.


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Augason Farms Food Storage Breakfast (#10 cans, 6 pk.)
- $ 109 98 109.98
- Shipping
- Free shipping
About this item
High-quality items for your emergency food storage needs.
- 380 total servings
- Up to 30 year shelf life
Click here to view a video preview of this product.
The Augason Farms Food Storage Breakfast Pack is a symphony of morning goodness! It boasts traditional breakfast favorites such as scrambled eggs, buttermilk pancakes, bacon bits, potato shreds, creamy wheat cereal and freeze dried strawberries. Recipes on the labels help you combine and rotate these items to make a pleasing variety of appealing breakfast meals. Tried and true breakfast favorites, these yummy, nutritious offerings are suitable for everyday use as well as long-term food storage. Consider trying them often to find your favorite ways to use them. Easy to prepare, delightful to eat, these Augason Farms breakfast picks are welcome fare anytime.
Family-owned and operated since 1972, Augason Farms believes that great taste is a tradition worth preserving. Crafted with a focus on taste and nutrition, their products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. Let them provide you with delicious peace of mind.
View nutrition information here. (PDF)
View Augason Farms Emergency Preparedness Tips. (PDF)
- 1 Buttermilk Pancake Mix (21 servings)
- 1 Creamy Wheat Cereal (36 servings)
- 1 Dehydrated Potato Shreds (21 servings)
- 1 Bacon Flavored Bits Vegetarian Meat Substitute (192 servings)
- 1 Freeze Dried Sliced Strawberries (18 servings)
- 1 Dried Scrambled Egg Mix (92 servings)
Sealed cans, either containing oxygen absorbers or nitrogen flushed, are the most effective long-term method of controlling the deteriorating effects of light, moisture and oxygen on the contents.
Frequently Asked Questions for Augason Farms Food Storage Products:
Q: How will my product be shipped?
A: Most items are shipped by small parcel carriers like FedEx or UPS. The larger kits will arrive in multiple boxes from a single carrier.
Q: What do the numbers mean that are marked on my food storage kit boxes?
A: To facilitate fulfillment of your order, all kit boxes are pre-assembled with specific products, then pulled from inventory to assemble your order. Numbers on the boxes may not be in sequential order. Pail items will be shipped in separate cases.
Q: Why when I open the cans/pails, are some only partially filled?
A: With some products, settling occurs and is expected. Cans/pails are sold by weight and not by volume for that reason.
Q: Once I open the product, how long do I have to use the product?
A: Shelf life varies by product and is affected by temperature and moisture. Once the can/pail is opened, the storage life for most products is approximately one year.
- Beans, Freeze Dried Fruits & Vegetables, Grains: 30 years (Exception – Brown Rice: 7 years)
- Bakery Staples: 30 years (Exception – Ultimate Gel, Shortening Powder, Flour, Vital Wheat Gluten, Dough Enhancer: 10 years)
- Dehydrated Fruits & Vegetables: 25 years (Exception – Banana Slices, Potato Gems: 10 years)
- Freeze Dried Meats & Entrées: 25 years sealed - 1 month opened
- Delight Drinks: 15 years
- Vegetarian Meat Substitutes, Cocoas, Cereals, Bakery Mixes, Eggs & Dairy: 10 years (Exception – Morning Moo's: 25 years, Chocolate Morning Moo's: 15 years)
- Soups & Sauces: 10 years (Exception – Alphabet Soup Mix, Vegetable Stew Blend, Hearty Vegetable Chicken or Beef Soup Mix: 25 years)
A: Product is best when stored in a cool, dry place at temperatures between 55˚F and 70˚F (ideal humidity 15%). Once product is open, please ensure the lid is secure when storing and use within the guidelines.
Q: Does heat or cold affect the shelf life of the product?
A: Heat shortens the storage life of any food – the cooler the storage, the longer the storage life.
Q: How do I compare "servings per can or pail" to product weight?
A: The truth is you cannot. Our serving sizes and number of servings per can are set with respect to government guidelines on food nutrition and recipe requirements for each product. You will find some recipe creations may require multiple servings of specific products to create the recipe. When reviewing food storage kits, a good comparison is based upon number of persons, calories per day, length of time and calculating the total number of meals possible. For example: 1-Person, 1-Year (3 meals per day, 365 days = 1,095 total meals), 1,700 calories per day.
Q: If a can gets dented, does it affect the quality of the product?
A: Small dents may occur in cans from shipping, and this is normal. They do not pose a problem, provided the seal has not been broken at top or bottom of the can. If the seal has been broken at the top or bottom of the can, please contact Sam's Club Customer Service to resolve the issue: 1.888.746.7726.
Dents should not occur from shipping in pails.
Q: Are the cans/pails marked with "use by" dates?
A: Cans/pails are marked with a production date called a Julian date. For example, 12022 means the can was produced in 2012 on the 22nd day (January 22). Each can is also marked with the expected storage life.
Assembled Country
Component Country


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|UPDATED: WHS Volleyball Opens State Playoffs vs. North Meck at 4 PM
|Written by MIke Kelly
|Thursday, 21 October 2010 10:51
The North Carolina High School Athletic Association has released their playoff brackets for the state volleyball playoffs.
The Pioneers (23-3 overall; 12-0 in the Northwestern 3A/4A), the No.1 seed in the NW3A/4A, will open post-season play at Lentz-Eggers Gym on Saturday against North Mecklenburg, the No.4 seed from the I-Meck Conference. The Vikings are 8-15.
Saturday's match begins at 4 pm. The winner will play either South Mecklenburg (No.5 seed from the Southwestern 4A Conference) or McDowell (the No.1 seed from the Mountain Athletic 3A/4A Conference) in a second-round match on Tuesday. If WHS wins, the Pioneers host that match.
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Hearts Game Overview
Time for some Hearts-racing entertainment!Hearts is a simple game to learn, but provides ample opportunities for strategy and daring. The objective is to earn as few points as possible. Each Heart card is worth one point, the Queen of Spades is 13 points, and other cards have no point value. In each hand, the highest card in the suit that was led wins the trick. When a player reaches 100 points, the player with the lowest point total wins. With practice, you'll be ready to Shoot the Moon!
1.The game begins after players have finished passing cards. To pass cards, click the cards from your hand and click Pass.
2.The player with the 2 of Clubs leads first; play then proceeds clockwise. To play a card, simply double-click it, or click once on the card and then click Play.
3.The highest card in the suit that was led wins the trick, and that player leads off the next round.
4.Ready to play? Select mode of play above to get started.


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|Swap Shop: 09/19/12
|Written by Noah Lockamy
|Wednesday, 19 September 2012 15:36
FOR SALE: Two Hotpoint 20.6 Cubic feet No-Frost refrigerators.
These units have been in a seasonal home and infrequently used. They are clean and in good condition.
$100.00 each
40" Frigidaire Electric Oven with a griddle and warming oven.
This oven has been in a seasonal home and is in good condition.
GE Nautilus Dishwasher
This dishwasher is being removed from a seasonal home where it had infrequent use. It is clean and in good condition.
Price can be negotiated with anyone interested in two or more of these units.
BENEFIT: Benefit singing on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. at Faith Baptist Mission Church, 4250 Rominger Road to benefit Sammy and Leta Trivette to help with medical expenses. Singers include the Lynn Shook Family, Doug Bare Family, Piney Grove Baptist Church and more. Everyone is invited.
FOR SALE: Large, antique cedar chest for sale. You may call 828-262-3627.
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Recent Ringling News:
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Community Service Scholarship and Fellowship Opportunities
The Lazarus Foundation Scholarship
The Lazarus Foundation awardsscholarships and grant money to Ringling students who have demonstrated a commitment to community service. Applicants are asked both to describe their past service experiences and to create a future program that will benefit the local community. Students will first receive the grant money to carry out the proposed project. Scholarship money will be awarded pending completion of the project. Applicants must be registered Ringling College students.
Contact Rachel Levey-Baker, firstname.lastname@example.com, for an application.


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- Northern New York Newspapers
- Watertown
- Ogdensburg
- Massena-Potsdam
- Lowville
- Carthage
- Malone
- NNY Business
- NNY Living
- NNY Ads
CAPE VINCENT Son and father Paul F. and Darrel J. Aubertine share a lot in common.
Paul, 31, launched his political career this month by attending his first board meeting as the lone Democratic member of the Cape Vincent Town Council. Darrel, a proud parent seated in the audience during the Jan. 16 meeting with his wife, Margaret S., accomplished the same feat when he was elected by the town in 1994. The Democrat would later serve as the Jefferson County legislator for District 1 from 1996 through 2001. He then served in the state Legislature as an assemblyman and senator from 2002 until 2010.
Interviewed together by the Times on Friday, the duo talked about why Aubertine family members from multiple generations have been inspired to serve as officials in Cape Vincent. They also weighed in on the history of politics in the town, the importance of civic duty in the family and their future political aspirations.
Career-wise, the father-son duo has plenty of reasons to smile in 2014.
The elder Mr. Aubertine was hired by the office of the state comptroller as special assistant for external affairs this past fall, following three years as commissioner of the state Department of Agriculture and Markets. He hinted on Friday that Washington, D.C., could soon be his next stop if he decides to enter the race for New Yorks 21st Congressional District seat this fall a possibility set in motion when Rep. William L. Owens, D-Plattsburgh, announced he would not seek re-election.
Paul, elected this past fall to Town Council, will be married this May to Kari M. Chavoustie. The newlywed couple plans to move into a house in town now under construction on Hell Street. Paul is employed by Woods Farms, a large-scale dairy operation in Cape Vincent.
Though Darrels entry into town politics arrived much earlier than Pauls, they both worked as young men on the familys Triple A Aubertine Farm, a sixth-generation Heritage farm that started as a dairy operation in the late 1800s. As an independent 17-year-old, Darrel was herding cattle and hauling hay on his own 50-acre farm.
His involvement in town government began in the late 1980s as a member of the towns Zoning Board of Appeals, a position in which he helped draft a new zoning law before serving as a councilman in 1994 and 1995. The decision to serve was partly inspired by his uncle, Terry L. Aubertine, a town board member from 1978 to 1993. Terrys father, Walton E., served as a board member for Cape Vincent Central School; Waltons father, Walter, served as town assessor.
As a young man, I was the biggest cynic on Gods green earth, Mr. Aubertine recalled. But that changed when I was asked to do my first job in the public sector and learned I could help people.
Wind power is only the latest politically charged issue that has stirred debate in Cape Vincent over the past 50 years, he said. In the 1960s, for example, there was controversy over a failed plan to build a bridge from Cape Vincent to Wolfe Island, Ontario. In 1968, the community was divided over the plan to merge Cape Vincent and Clayton school districts to form todays 190-square-mile Thousand Islands Central School District. The construction of the regional water line from Cape Vincent to Glen Park in 1996, led by the Development Authority of the North Country, also sparked debate.
But todays wind power controversy in Cape Vincent where BP Wind Energy has planned a wind farm project has polarized the community in a detrimental way that past issues havent, said the younger Mr. Aubertine. BP is now trying to sell its 124-turbine project to another wind developer.
Residents from pro- and anti-wind power factions of the community often criticize each other on Internet blogs, he said. Those attacks are sometimes personal, creating animosity between residents and board members. He likened partisan blogs about wind power to echo chambers, because they dont offer an opportunity for two-sided debate.
Really what inspired me to run for Town Council is the divisiveness in Cape Vincent right now, he said. People boycott businesses based on their differences of opinion, and it all revolves around just one issue. A lot of this has to do with technology and the ability to say things and get away with it. The passion on both sides is fine. Its fine to be staunchly for or against issues, but its a problem when it gets personal and you dont agree to disagree.
Unlike the newspaper, you cant silence any opposition or differences in opinion in blogs, added Darrel. Its counterproductive and takes away from the legitimacy of a counterargument to try and find common ground.
Though Paul is keenly aware his father has set a precedent for starting his storied political career as a town councilman, he isnt focused on any future career aspirations at the moment; hes focused on finding ways to serve people in the community. This month, for example, the board members discussed the towns strategy for funding the cleanup of roadside debris from the ice storm in late December.
When I made the decision to run, it wasnt because I had a popular name that could take me somewhere, Paul said. Is there a chance I could move on? Sure. I certainly would never say Ive gone as far as I can go. But for now, all I can do is the best I can in the Cape.
Should Paul eventually choose to run as an elected official in Jefferson County, like his father, hell have unconditional support from the Aubertine family, Darrel said. The familys strong support network, which has roots in Cape Vincent that hearken back to the 1800s, has always played a key role in supporting his career decisions over the past two decades.
For me, there was no grand plan, Darrel said. And if you look at where Ive gone in politics in the last 20 years, youll see that. Some people dont realize that I was out of office for a year when I left the (county) Board of Legislators and thought I was done. But I was talked into going for another state Assembly run. If there was a need, and I felt I could fill a hole to serve, I took advantage of it and threw myself into the ring.
And theres a chance he could soon decide to throw himself in the political ring again by announcing his candidacy in the 21st Congressional District race.
At this point going back to my support network of family and friends I havent made a decision one way or the other, he said. Obviously its flattering that I may have the opportunity to serve as a congressman for this district, like Mike McNulty, Paul Tonko and Bill Owens. These are people I have a lot of respect for, and I certainly have an appreciation for all of the work involved.
Thousands of readers like you have made Northern New York Newspapers the number one ranked website* for local news and sports coverage in the north country.
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Collecting autographs is a great hobby that we personally also love doing, but one that is hazardous if not done properly. Estimates are that 90% or more of autographs offered at on-line auction sites are not legitimate and certificates of authenticity are only as good as the the entity issuing them. Buyers must know the company you are purchasing from and how the signatures are gotten. Creation Entertainment has been proud to offer signed autographed photos for over 25 years and our autographs are received directly from the guests as part of their contracts when they appear at our conventions. Below you will find latest additions to Creation Entertainment's Autograph Room Collection. Above you will find links that are show/series specific so you can see all the autographed photos we have from that particular property. Enjoy and happy hunting!- Your friends at Creation Entertainment
Ticket & Convention Customer Service818.409.0960 x2269am-4:30pm PST M-F
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glassware/ceramic products sold on this site contain lead and/or cadium
known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.


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Keranique Scalp Stimulating Shampoo
We know you want the goods as soon as possible, which is why orders received by 3pm ET leave our warehouse the very same day. We'll send you an email that day to confirm shipment and the email will include your tracking information.
Our warehouse is closed Saturday & Sunday, so orders received after 3pm ET on Fridays will not ship out until Monday.
Based on 2 Reviews
MargeChicago LandHairMedium BrownFine or Thin HairChemically Treated HairAging Hair Reborn!!!I have tried most of the Keranique products line with the exception of the product containing monixidil. I love this product line. I have thinning hair and have tried many, many products who have not delivered as promised. Keranique brought my hair back to life and I love it! Highly recommend to everyone!10 out of 10 shoppers thought this review was helpful.
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Jean K.HairDark BrownFine or Thin HairGreat ProductI have had thinning hair for several years and after surgery I had bald spots. I started using the Keranique system and it has totally retored my hair. It is healthy and thinker that it has been in ages. The bald spots regrew. I have tried everything to get my hair back and this is the only product that has worked! Thanks for creating a great product. Just wish it were not so expensive, but it does last a pretty good while.18 out of 18 shoppers thought this review was helpful.
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So, if you've checked the main page recently, you'll see that Bobby is running an FSM emblem design contest for printing on FSM merchandise, preferring some sort of badge-type logo. I have an idea for such an emblem, but alas I lack any sort of vector-editing skill, nor do I have time.
So, would anyone with actual vector-editing skill like to help me create this emblem, and we could submit it together? I can do a mock-up of the design in a raster editor if it helps. The prize for the winning entry is $375, I believe, although how it would be split up can be discussed (I understand that designing the emblem is the easy part, and actually creating it is the bulk of the work). I'd really just like to see this idea come to fruition.
So what is the idea? I don't want to say too much in case someone decides to just steal it and submit it as their own, but I will say that most of it is simplex in design, except for possibly the visage of a pirate in the middle.
Would anyone like to help me with this? I know we have some graphically-inclined people around here. The file has to be in EPS format, by the way.


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A magnet for the bold and the beautiful, especially on Sunday nights, Sho Cho is a place to see and be seen.
Sho Cho has an ultra-modern, Japanese feel, with glowing blue neon lighting, and fish tanks along the walls. However, the real draw at Sho Cho is the outside terrace overlooking the sea, where the space-age interior décor is continued in the cream leather chairs.
Opinion is firmly divided on the various merits of atmosphere and clientele at Sho Cho. Some, however, rate Sho Cho as one of the best bars in the world with a lively, friendly crowd, super cocktails and great music.
Address: Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, opposite Jumeirah Mosque, Jumeirah 1.
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Science Friday® is produced by the Science Friday Initiative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Science Friday® and SciFri® are registered service marks of Science Friday, Inc. Site design by Pentagram; engineering by Mediapolis.
An excerpt from Brave Genius: A Scientist, a Philosopher, and Their Daring Adventures From the French Resistance to the Nobel Prize.
Probably the biggest single misconception I come across in popular discussions of dark matter and dark energy is the accusation that these concepts are a return to the discredited idea of the aether. They are not -- in fact, they are precisely the opposite.
To access older blog posts, navigate via the archive links in the sidebar at left.


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Buzzz Midrange Driver (.5)
In Stock Product Number: 8963
The Buzzz is a straight flying workhorse that you'll reach for again and again, and has quickly become one of the most popular discs of all time. Throw it hard and Buzzz will hold any line you put it on.
- The Elite X Fly Dye version offer added grip, especially in cold or wet conditions.
- FLX version offer added grip, especially in cold or wet conditions.
Check out the selection of discs...
**The stamp and color will vary from the picture shown above. This is just a representative of the actual disc and when you order -you will receive the current version of that item. The colors and stamps change per stock order and can be very different from the pictures you see. If you have any questions, please contact our customer service at 1-888-707-6708.
- Discraft's most popular recent release
- The Buzzz is the go-to midrange for many
Gender: Unisex
Weight: to 178 gm
Season: N/A
Vendor ProductId: XBUZ
Review ProductId: 8963
Reviewed by 1 customer
- Accurate
- Great Distance
- Great Feel
Best Uses
- Narrow Fairways
Comments about Discraft Buzzz Midrange Driver (.5):
You always need a good buzz playing disc golf
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Moderators: Blitzen, Almighty Benny, Silent-sigfig
Warhead wrote:my head burns with War.
Tzan wrote:Semaj Nagirrac wrote:Well, I took some land without checking if it was owned by a faction or not. I'm not going to be banned, am I? I can destroy everything if need be.
That's what Hitler said,
in 1938.
stubby wrote:omg noob, balrogs are maiars too, don't you know anything
Keldoclock wrote:There are also the new $1 coins that have a different dead guy on them every month.
Blitzen wrote:My coinage only contains living people. Except I do have one realllly old nickel that has that guy from The King's Speech.
And Terry Fox was on quarters a while back.
Tzan wrote:Quantumsurfer wrote:I generally agree with TzanWarhead wrote:I agree with QuantumSmurfer.
I agree with Warhead.
aoffan23 wrote:I have 25 Terry Fox Loonies, still in the roll they came in. I'm saving them up for a while until they become collector's items (yes I know this will take a long time, but as long as they're worth more than a dollar I'm good with it). Then I guess I'll keep one as a collector's item.
Also, Canada is getting rid of the penny. They've stopped making them, and they're going to stop taking them in November (or so I've heard).
Also, our $100 bills now smell like maple syrup.
Tzan wrote:Quantumsurfer wrote:I generally agree with TzanWarhead wrote:I agree with QuantumSmurfer.
I agree with Warhead.
Users browsing this forum: Natalya and 2 guests


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Oklahoma student commits suicide
STILLWATER, Okla. A 13-year-old student shot and killed himself in a hallway at an Oklahoma junior high school before classes began Wednesday, police said, terrifying teenagers who feared a gunman was on the loose.
Staffers quickly locked down the school and evacuated the 700 eighth- and ninth-graders, along with students from an adjacent elementary school, to a safe location, police Capt. Randy Dickerson said. The boy was found dead in a hallway, Dickerson said.
Some students who fled the building said they found out it was a suicide from news reports. Other students who had witnessed the shooting spread word that a classmate had killed himself, police said.
Jake Green, 14, said he was among dozens of students who meet to pray every morning who heard the single shot ring out from an adjacent hallway about 10 feet away.
We heard this loud boom and everyone just got quiet, Green said. No one said a word.
A teacher yelled at the students to get out of the building and head to a playground at the elementary school, Green said.
Everyone was really scared. We didnt know if the kid shot himself or if there was a shooter outside the school who shot in, Green said. Everyone didnt know what was going on, so they were screaming and running as fast as they could to get to the playground.
Police didnt say what prompted the shooting but said no other students were at risk.
It doesnt appear that anyone else was in danger or threatened, Dickerson said.
Green said students who were already in their classroom were locked in the building for about an hour.
It was really scary, said Green, a ninth-grader. Everyones kind of traumatized and doesnt know how to act or respond.
Kenny Monday told the Associated Press that his son, Kennedy, heard the gunshot but did not witness the shooting.
Its so sad that the kid lost his life, but were just glad he didnt shoot anyone else, Monday said.
Stillwater Junior High sent a statement to parents saying there had been a single shooting incident at the school and that staff and students had been moved to a safe location. Parents were told to pick up their children at a nearby shopping center. Stillwater is located about 70 miles west of Tulsa.