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[Chukchi Husky]

Upon arriving at the restaurant, Sophia understood why Gnaesus may have sent his companions away. This restaurant was not the fanciest or highest class place in the city by any measure, but it had an atmosphere that his companions would stain. The restaurant had a relaxed and calm air, helped by the nearby park, compared to the hectic pace of the city where everything had to be done yesterday. It appeared as a place welcome to centaurs, as a few were dining there.

Sophia made her way to the outside seating with a pleasant view of the park, and found herself a table suited for centaurs. She spent most of her time outside and never liked the indoors much. Lacking experience in this region?s cuisine, she left Gnaesus to order the food.

Soon after Sophia found the table and sat on the ground, Gnaesus came, took a chair to the table and sat down. ?I see why you chose to eat here The view I suppose helps remind you of your homeland??

In her mind nowhere in any city would compare to the wilderness of her homeland, .but within this sprawling urban wasteland, this park made a good substitute. ?Something like that,? she replied, with a hint of sadness in her voice. ?I never expected Kinaancha being like this.?

?From your disappointed tone and the longing of nature you show I wonder what convinced you to leave your home and visit Kinaancha.?

The reasons she travelled to Kinaancha she thought were innocent, and in her naive way, felt no bad in speaking them. ?Much of my time growing up was spent reading fantastic epics with adventures in the glorious Imperial city, written by authors and poets in awe of it?s splendour and majesty.?

?Ah, the old romantic stories,? spoke Gnaesus, ?Set in a fictional idyllic past by those who dismiss the achievements of the modern world. It might be best if you returned to your wild realm, but, if you seek adventure... Tomorrow go to the old city when you have the chance. Look upon the ruins and monuments of the past. There you will find what inspired those writers.?

Visiting the old city was one thing Sophia planned during her stay in Kinaancha, if not for the events today she would visit it sooner, but now it was getting dark. The way Gnaesus suggested it, with a mention of adventure, might seem odd to most people, but Sophia never thought of it that way, only as a suggestion.

The food then arrived, and by some odd coincidence brought by a kentauride waitress with the body of a black mare, who exchanged smiles with Sophia. As she expected, the food was local cuisine but for her unusual. For himself Gnaesus ordered something small, Sophia guessed he probably eaten earlier back at the tavern.

During the meal there was little conversation, and afterwards Gnaesus got up to leave. ?Now that we finished, I must leave you. Farewell, fair maiden. I hope you enjoyed this evening as much as I enjoyed your company.?

His sudden departure never bothered Sophia that much. It made her feel relieved, no longer sharing her time with a strange human she just met. At least she got a free meal from this odd encounter.
Just before Sophia left the restaurant for the park, she heard a voice call out to her.

?Could you wait a moment??

Sophis turned around, and saw the waitress come rushing out, and changed into normal clothing.

?If you don?t mind, may I join you on a walk through the park? I see you?re headed that way, and I'm going through there anyway.?

Sophia smiled, and said, ?Oh, I don?t mind. You can join me if you want.?

After losing one travelling companion she gained another, but at least this time it is a fellow centaur, a much better company than some strange human.

[Crimson Lego]

After a short walk, the Shadow elves and their dwarven cohort arrived at the small campsite that was their home. Several tents had been pitched in the area for the elves to inhabit, and many guards had been stationed high in the branches of the deciduous trees. Pretty good system to keep a home secure, thought Leo as he noticed almost every inch of the camp?s perimeter had a guard assigned to it. Sheathing his knife, the dwarf was told to wait in the center of the camp while the clan leader was summoned.

A few moments later, a powerfully built elf standing about 6?3? approached the newcomer. Leo bowed slightly, and then offered his hand. ?How are you?? he said politely.

The chieftain smiled and shook the offered hand. ?Welcome to our humble dwelling, Master Dwarf. I was told you require supplies of some sort??

?Ah yes,? replied Leo, forgetting the reason he was there in the first place. ?I have traveled far and long from Kvot, but I also happen to be running low on supplies and provisions.? That was true beyond all negotiation, as he had only the bottle of soup and some water. ?However, I also have some gold, so we may be able to make a trade of some sort.?

The chieftain nodded in agreement and gestured to the dwarf. ?Then we should be able to make a good bargain together.? Nodding, Leo followed the chief to the weapons store of the camp. Glancing around, he noticed that only a few of the Shadow elves were watching him; however, he noticed that it was not in a bad way. Good to have relations with these people, thought the dwarf.

Ducking into a tent, Leo saw a huge amount of food stockpiled in the area, along with weapons, goods, and other equipment. A whetstone also lay in the corner of the tent. Scratching his head, the Shadow Elf turned back and looked at his companion. ?Do you see anything you need??

The dwarf nodded and walked forward. He selected 2 combat knives and a throwing axe. Rummaging through his pockets, he managed to come up with more than a few gold pieces. ?That enough for you?? he asked.

The Elf nodded and pocketed the coins. ?I wish you the best in your trip,? he said, smiling. They shook hands again and parted ways.

Minutes later, Leo had said goodbye to his new acquaintances was on the move through the darkened forest. Having been redirected to the dirt path, the dwarf had no idea of his next destination. It doesn?t matter now.

[Ransom]

Longinus ascended the marble steps with his usual sharp magnificence, mentally preparing himself for the encounter in the room ahead of him. What exactly the Dragon lords wanted to get out of him he didn?t know, but intended to find out. The Dragon Lords didn?t just summon anyone, so it was impossible this was just a simple discussion over trade agreements. Longinus always suspected a grander plan and deeper purpose to everything, and he wanted to be right in the thick of it.

As the first dragon Knight took his place next to the entrance, another emerged. It was the biggest man Longinus had ever seen. This time, unlike the first, the enormous doors were pushed aside with ease, the iron monstrosities making way for the mysterious figure as if he were pushing aside straw.
It was no surprise, it looked as if everything would make its way to this Beastman.

It wasn?t just his size that impressed Longinus either. He was? dangerous, capturing the legendary image of the Dragon knights completely. His every muscle and sinew looked as if they were itching to spring to life, yearning to show their incredible strength and speed and work with all the others to create an unstoppable fighting machine. It was as if his soul was a strong flame, craving to begin a wildfire.
However, he was completely in control, almost frighteningly so.
But probably the most terrifying of all was what Longinus saw in the man?s eyes. Peering into them Longinus could only see one thing.

Pure and unadulterated honesty.


He was perfect, a specimen of war that Longinus would not let slip through his fingers. He needed a bodyguard that was unstoppable, and here he was. He would have to track him down, maybe even mention his desire to the Dragon Lords, I mean after all, such an important figure of trade would need protection wouldn?t he?

They passed each other, and the moment over. He set his mind back on the Dragon Lords as the doors opened to either side of him with the soft grating of the engraved iron against the floor. A booming voice called from within the chamber, apparently the scribe or herald.

?CROWN PRINCE LONGINUS OF QUIN, LORD OF DROJOK AND SURROUNDING STATES.?



Dragon Lords, how lovely to meet you. And how are we today?

[Crimson Lego]

After continuing on the long dirt path for some time, Leo was finally able to make his way out of the forest and in some random direction. Humming as he strolled down the road, he noticed a caravan pulling up and stopping. I wonder what he wants.

The driver pulled off his hood and gazed down at the obviously exhausted dwarf. ?You need a ride?? he asked, smiling. ?I?ve got quite a lot of room back here, and you look pretty tired as well.?

Leo shrugged, grinning back. ?Sure. Where are you headed right now??

?Bringing supplies to some relatives of mine to Kinaancha, near Lake Cha. You wanna tag along? Won?t cost anything, I just want some company for the trip.?

Thinking quickly, the dwarf nodded and clambered on. ?Thanks,? he said. Moving to the back of the caravan, Leo gazed out at the trees, where he had made his trade with the Shadow Elves earlier. Feels like a long time, he pondered. Glancing out the opening, the dwarf thought about his next destination, and wondered what could be of interest there. The Imperial City, eh? Leo had heard much about the former empire, and the Order of the Dragon as well. Unfortunately, he had only heard of them in stories told by his friends, and had not real expereicne with that ancient and well-respected organization. Maybe I could meet up with them,, joked Leo mentally.

Throwing on his hood, the dwarf made himself comfortable in the caravan and closed his eyes. Leo had no idea how long the trip to Lake Cha or Kinaancha would be, but he needed some rest anyways. With the driver humming a tune in the front, the dwarf quickly fell into a peaceful sleep.

[Egann]

OoC: Wow, my character's been on the roster for a YEAR AND A HALF, but I never used him. Oh, well. I'll take him for a test spin.


Always trouble. Always. Still, he should say hello at least.

The man -clearly a farmer by his distinctively lackluster attire even in the pathetic light of the bar- asked the bar-tender something. He pointed towards table in the corner, with a young man and a half-filled bottle, no need for a wooden jigger. Distilled stuff. Expensive stuff. More expensive, at least, than the mead that was the specialty around here.

No chamber-music in this place. Chamber music was for upper-class places. Places which require money; places that acquire power. The floor in this place had barely been swept in a month, so it stood to reason that the owner didn't even have a maiden to help him keep things in order. This was a man's place. No woman would feel at home here.

Especially one willing to take off her clothes. Aristocracy might find pleasure in such a thing, a way to take a pretty thing of a peasant and turn her into a play-thing for a while. The peasants were in too much of a struggle to have anything but contempt for the practice.

What did they call places like this again? Taverns? Strange words for a shack that serves alcohol. Not strange that such a place, unkempt and untidy as it was, would -together with the post and the perpetually empty inn- would make this farming settlement, his home-town. The bigger world was a very different place, filled with much greater places, but for all the great halls of kings and lords there were seven such hobbles of peasants.

The farmer finally came up to the table. "Thought I'd say hi while you're in town."

The young man at the table looked up. Half a bottle of the stiffened stuff down, he just looked depressed. For being now and always having been a scrawny git, he held his liquor well. Not as well as you might think, just well. The distilleries in these parts had trouble even doubling the spirits of the drink, a common inability, usually disguised with a twinge of pepper to give it something special. There was no pepper in this place. Other places masked the inability with fruits and honeys. There were no fruits in this place, either, and what honey there was the barley porridge that made up breakfast, lunch, and dinner in this place called for in desperation to save it from blandness worse than the unspeakable fate.

"Hi, father." The man rolled his eyes and took another swig. "Care for a swig?"

"No, thank you. The spirits are not as kind on me as they are on you."

"You should take a look by it, learn to drink like a man. Water has spirits in it, too. Spirits that'll kill, if they have the chance. These spirits? They just make you ill for a while, but they git rid of the evil'uns."

"No, thank you."

"Never could get over that headache they leave. Pity myself seven hours hence."

"Do you always drink yourself into the floor after a job? I swear. The way you talk, you spent more on that bottle than you made on the mission you're celebrating it with."

"Sir, I'm old enough to take care of myself." The young man stood. "I know what I'm doin'." He grabbed the bottle by the neck and tossed a coin to the host. A push on the door and he was gone.

The farmer walked through the door. "That's my son," he sighed to himself. "Useless. Fheredin."

[Crimson Lego]

After continuing on the long dirt path for some time, Leo was finally able to make his way out of the forest and in some random direction. Humming as he strolled down the road, he noticed a caravan pulling up and stopping. I wonder what he wants.

The driver pulled off his hood and gazed down at the obviously exhausted dwarf. ?You need a ride?? he asked, smiling. ?I?ve got quite a lot of room back here, and you look pretty tired as well.?

Leo shrugged, grinning back. ?Sure. Where are you headed right now??

?Bringing supplies to some relatives of mine to Kinaacha, near Lake Cha. You wanna tag along? Won?t cost anything, I just want some company for the trip.?

Thinking quickly, the dwarf nodded and clambered on. ?Thanks,? he said. Moving to the back of the caravan, Leo gazed out at the trees, where he had made his trade with the Shadow Elves earlier. Feels like a long time, he pondered. Glancing out the opening, the dwarf thought about his next destination, and wondered what could be of interest there. The Imperial City, eh? Leo had heard much about the former empire, and the Order of the Dragon as well. Unfortunately, he had only heard of them in stories told by his friends, and had not real expereicne with that ancient and well-respected organization. Maybe I could meet up with them,, joked Leo mentally.

Throwing on his hood, the dwarf made himself comfortable in the caravan and closed his eyes. Leo had no idea how long the trip to Lake Cha or Kinaancha would be, but he needed some rest anyways. With the driver humming a tune in the front, the dwarf quickly fell into a peaceful sleep.

[JRPomazon]

The girl in the back room was mercilessly backhanded over and over by Speedwagon, who seemed displeased by the fact that he had to strike a woman. She would not admit that she was property, nor would she even say anything to Turisais as he sat at his desk, content as he watched the brutality continue.

Enough was enough.

Gate pushed the door open with great force and threw three daggers, one at Speedwagon's hand and the other two at Turisais. The projectile blades grazed the sides of his head as his lackey shouted in pain as he grasped his hand. The two looked up to find Gate slowly walking into the room.

"I've come for business Turisias." Gate said, shaking loose another set of daggers. This wasn't about a change of clothes anymore.

[Steel Samurai]

Chink.

Kreyhana slid firmly and securely into the steel bands designed to hold her. Vorekk looked with admiration, and an ounce of greed at the massive steel blade.

"Now She . . . she be a big swerd. 'Course, with yer height an' girth not much else woulda look right, if'n I do say seh meself. . . . Hrm, Lemme see what ye can do with it lad."

Wil looked questioningly at the dwarf. "Do I have time?"

"Ha! Course ye do. Geren the swift is called such only 'cause he delays leaving seh much he has t' move like an elf on th' pouwder t' get th're on tiyem!" The dwarf slapped his knee, laughing at his own joke. Wil smiled, then followed the short figure to the open space at the end of the weapon and armor racks, shrugging his shoulders and swinging his arms to get used to the feel of his armor. The space, designed with fencing blades and shortswords in mind, was only just big enough for Kreyhana.

The steel bands rasped as Wil pulled Kreyhana free of them. He held the sword in front of him for a moment, trying to feel how the new weight of the armor would change the subtle balance and muscle control in his biceps and forearms. He swung his blade over his shoulder, feet spread far apart and planted firmly to keep his center of gravity low. One hand gripping the top of the pommel firmly. The other almost at the end.

Full Moon stance.

Wil closed his eyes and drew a circle around his body in his mind.

He inhaled. Paused.

As the breath was forced from his lungs Kreyhana swung in an arc around Wil, traveling at what seemed like unbelievable speed for a blade that large, powered by two insanely strong arms. Wil made six cuts in three seconds, swinging the big sword around, above, and behind him, covering every possible angle of attack. A loud crash echoed throughout the hall. Any normal sized human caught in that arc would have lost a limb, armored or no. This was evidenced by the two massive gouges in the shelves behind Wil, the armor on them decimated. Wil looked ruefully at the damage.

"It seems I still need some practice, Master Vorekk."

"Practice me arse. What ye need is a few hundred soldiers t' get that monst'r in shehp." The dwarf cackled and slapped his knee. "Aye, but it's good t' watch a real serd bein' swung. Not one of these pussified foils th't seem t' be all th' rage raight now. Don't ye worry about th' armer or the shelvin'." The dwarf looked at the damage and laughed again. "Get ye on now. Geren will b' waitin' for ye in the mess hall."

[Chukchi Husky]

Sophia enjoyed the presence of a fellow kentauride, walking a gentle pace through a heavily wooded part of the park, while admiring the scenic surroundings under the golden light of sunset. Her new companion, Korina, found Sophia interesting and would ask about herself and the northern country where she lived. These question never bothered Sophia, the attention given by another of her kind was much better than being with her last companions.

After talking about her adventures in the city so far, Korina began to show concern.

?You should be more careful,? said Korina, ?Parts of Kinaancha are a haven for rogues like those mercenaries who like to prey on lone travellers. You can?t trust everyone you meet here.?

It seemed to Sophia that she was lucky her encounter with the mercenaries went without any problems. Except for Gnaesus? odd behaviour. If her new friend was right, there might be something more to the things he said, something sinister. Tomorrow she would need to be on her guard if visiting the old city.

Korina then asked a question, back to more innocent things, ?How do you like the park??

Sophia spoke with a hint of sadness. ?So far this park is my favourite part of the city,? she said, then sighed, ?I came to Kinaancha searching for the Imperial magnificence that inspired the poets, but now it seems a long forgotten dream of a distant past. What I find is an urban wasteland that withers at the beauty of nature.?

?I think I know what you mean,? replied Korina, ?I lived here all my life, surrounded by the smoke and noise of this metropolis. Coming here to the park, for a few moments I can forget where I am and believe I?m in some faraway wilderness.?

?Why don?t you leave??

?Oh, I don?t think I could just leave, not with the life I have here. You?re so lucky, being able to travel.? Korina answered.

Sophia began to understand, not everyone had the opportunity she had to travel. Her short time in Kinaancha gave a bad impression on her, but at least it?s not her home. There are those, even centaurs, who knew only the city, and will feel trapped living in the city. No wonder someone like her would be asked about the world outside the boundaries of the city. She began to feel sorry for Korina and other centaurs like her, held within the clutches of this urban prison. At least they had a park.

Sophia smiled, ?At least you can come here. If I lived in the city I would be in the park as much as I can. Us centaurs, we need a place to roam. where we can be our animal selves.?

?Sometimes I do like to just gallop around the park, but I guess it?s not like being in a real forest or out on an open plain.?

?I?d imagine a gallop around the park would still feel a bit close,? and just as she finished, began to gallop herself. Korina then began to gallop herself, as Sophia hoped. Their gallop together was not a race, just a frolic through the short bit of park before arriving at the centaur neighbourhood.

A short time later, they arrived at the centaur inn. Sophia was first, with Korina coming a moment later, almost out of breathe.

?I haven?t done anything like that for ages,? said Korina when she caught her breath, ?I guess it?s something you do all the time up north.?

?Not all the time, but most of the time I spent outside.?

?Where are you planning on staying??

Sophia never put much thought on where she would stay while in the city. The inn could be a choice for staying somewhere within this neighbourhood. However, from her previous encounter there another choice might be better, if there is one. As the night began to make it?s creeping approch, a place needed to be found soon.

?I think the inn could be as good a place to stay as any,? she said.

?You could always come to my stable,? replied Korina, ?It?s not much, but I do have room to spare.?

?Your stable? Are you sure? I don?t want to intrude.?

?It won?t be a problem. Besides, I don?t think you?ll want to meet some of the people that the inns attract, even in this part of the city.?

To Sophia it seemed a bit strange for someone she met only a short while before to ask her to stay at their home. However, this someone was a centaur. ?If you really don?t mind, I?ll accept your invite to stay at your stable.? At least she would not have to deal with any problems caused by the inn.

?Really?? Korina replied, ?We can go there right now, if you want.? There was a hint of joy in her tone, sounding like she wanted Sophia to stay.

?Yes, of course. I would like to be somewhere before night approaches.?

Then they resumed walking again, under the dimming light of sunset/ It would be the first time for Sophia to stay at another centaur?s stable, belonging to one she met only a short while ago. She was unsure why this centaur wanted her to stay, but at least she had a place to stay in the city.

[Ken the Wandering Soul]

?Lotushendranae? en Ordra Tanteri??? Miriel spoke, trying to wrap her tongue around the various nuances of Lotus? full name.

?Ah, this humble one believes Good Stranger Miriel should speak the ?sh? with more? ah, more? strong,? Lotus tried to explain, just before producing the sound himself.

Lotus had awoken fully some time before in a panic, having suffered the torment of his attackers and his nightmares. Fortunately, he had been calmed down to realize that he was being taken care of.

Lotus eventually managed to get his head around the situation. Apparently, after his severe beating, a centaur named Sophia had come along and carried him here. There was one name which Lotus intended to remember. What?s more, he was in a public hospital of sorts, being tended to by Miriel, who both worked in the hospital and was one of its major benefactors.

The lovely Miriel had focused much attention on Lotus since he woke up. She went off to care of other patients once in awhile, but she returned to his bed continuously. It seemed that she realized the implications of having a Mogili this far south. Miriel had continuously conversed with Lotus, trying to learn why he was traveling, trying to find the best way to treat someone of his origin.

Their conversations had continued through the day, with Lotus relating some tales of his journeys past the Mogili Steppe. The conversation finally came to a head though, when Miriel addressed one issue.

?Good Stranger Lotus,? Miriel spoke, her light voice working around the odd Kinaa phrasing of a Mogili title, ?I believe you mentioned meeting someone while coming to Kinaancha, a Dragon Knight Initiate??

?Yes, Good Stranger Miriel,? Lotus spoke back. Though Miriel had introduced herself fully, mentioning her father, it seemed that Lotus had not yet fully grasped just how important she was. Miriel, having treated the situation tentatively, had not yet corrected Lotus on using the proper title. She did not even know if he would understand the importance of more fully blown title to begin with. ?Good Stranger Wil. This humble one enjoyed meeting Good Stranger Wil.?

Lotus averted his gaze from Miriel to look upward to ceiling. It seemed as though he was watching the blue sky on the other side though, and his voice took on a sort of respectful quality.

?Good Stranger Wil spoke of something that is? ?Order of the Dragon?, this humble one remembers. This humble one heard his happy? ah, not quite? bliss? ah pride, pride is the correct word. This humble one heard Good Stranger Wil?s words of pride of ?Order of the Dragon?, that it was a way of seeking peace. This humble one hoped to see these Dragon Knights as they bring peace.?
Miriel watched Lotus as he tried to recall and convey what he felt in Kinaa. As she observed Lotus, hearing his words, she knew she was in the middle of something that could prove to be important. This one Mogili, realizing it or not, was the lone representative of a people

Miriel continued to converse with Lotus for a short time afterwards, but eventually had to leave to help attend to the need at the Order of the Dragon--and possibly, enlist the help of a Dragon Knight, the one person that Lotus seemed to trust in what was to him a strange, new land.

[Ransom]

The Dragon Lords were impressive. More than fifty serious faces gazed down upon him from their huge stone chairs, aged sentinels of judgement that would scrutinise and consider his every word and action. He couldn’t underestimate them, their faces alone showed years of experience and learning in both battle and the high arts of justice. As they gazed from their high thrones, their eyes showed no sympathy or willingness to understand, they were like the dragons they sat upon, cold, unforgiving. It would be business, and only business that would be discussed here. There was no room for emotions or for relationships. This was the Dragon council, and it was exactly as Longinus had imagined it.

It seemed that the Dragon Lords were indeed impressive… but predictable.

There was three higher dragons rising above the others, presumably for the Kinaaryu, Toryenrusa, and Rogyar, the three most important men belonging to the Order of the Dragon.
The central throne-like thing, was of course inhabited by the Kinaaryu, the arbiter and leader of the council. He was a fierce image, his grim face making his flowing red hair and long robes look sissy. Somehow, he managed to make goatees intimidating, a truly great feat indeed.

He was the man that would be doing all the talking, with no doubt a deep booming voice that was laced with a touch of the old man in him to add to the dramatic effect of his whole persona.

“Welcome Longinus.” The Kinaaryu was ceremonially exempt from addressing others by their official titles, even Kings. “Let us begin with our first order of business.”

As Longinus had guessed, the voice could have commanded mountains. It was the type of voice that compelled lesser individuals cowering into the corners of their mind, their will dominated.

But this didn’t really apply to Longinus.

He gazed up at the Arbiter confidently, asserting his presence as the Kinaaryu took some notations from his scribe. Besides himself, the only other individual that wasn’t a Dragon Lord in the room was the head scribe. In this case, a short man wearing some sophisticated looking writing helmet, complete with hand steadier and ten interchangeable magnifiers tailored for his dominant eye.

The Arbiter began.

“When the merchant Lord of Drojok died, our past trade agreements with the nation ceased. You were his friend, no? And the people voted you his successor after his death?”

“Yes Lord Kinaaryu. And never could I be as fond of a people who are not my own. They are like adopted children Lord.”

“So you say.” He skipped straight to the point. “In the interest of all parties, you, the new Lord of Drojok were summoned here to discuss a reinstating of those same agreements.”

One of the more educated looking Dragon Lords then began to read the terms and specifications of the past agreement. Of course Longinus knew every detail, but the formality could not be avoided, so he would have to wait.

On a basic level, the agreement meant an exclusive share of the rich metals and other resources that came out of Drojok, in exchange for a coveted spot in the Order of the Dragon’s rich trade network throughout Panak. Deliveries and supply caravans from Drojok would operate monthly to supply the Dragon Lords enterprises, and fresh and exotic goods would be especially offered to Drojok’s economy continually from the trade network, assisting Drojok in maintaining it’s reputation as the trade capitol of the south.

There were a lot of other variables of course, but only one fact mattered: this agreement had been essential to Drojok’s success under the last Merchant Lord, and it needed to continue.

The Dragon Lord finished his briefing and handed the contract to the scribe. It was Longinus’ turn to speak, either to address the terms of the contract, or simply reject the terms. He left a pause for dramatic effect, and then began to discuss an entirely new set of terms.

“As well as lord of Drojok, I, as you all know, am the Crown Prince of Quin. Thus, I would like to propose a new agreement, combining both the interests of Drojok and Quin with the those of the Dragon Lords and Dragon Knights.”

A few of the faces showed surprise, but most kept their grim visage. One spoke up.

“But what can Quin offer the Dragon Lords? Drojok is rich in valuable metals, no one can deny this. But should we couple Drojok’s privileged advantages in this agreement with Quin’s simply because it is nearby?”

Murmurs of agreement answered this comment, but Longinus only gave them a cunning smile.

“Well Prince?” The Kinaaryu boomed “What can Quin offer us?”

“I would request that my herald may be brought in so that I may show you.”

The Kinaaryu tipped his head slightly towards the door, and it was opened, admitting Diaden with a long, wrapped up bundle in his arms. He gave it to Longinus and took his leave.

“Thankyou Diaden. Now Gentlemen, I have here in my hands a very valuable object that is completely peculiar to the Kingdom of Quin.”

As he unwrapped it, the usually controlled eyes of the Dragon Lords lit up a little, and they all leaned forward on their chairs a small fragment.

The cloth finally floated to the ground revealing a long, sleek, rifle. It was a peculiar thing, almost half-again longer than a standard Elven long distance rifle, and probably twice the size of most convential human artillery. However, it didn’t look heavy or awkward in any respect, Longinus even tossing it lightly into the air above him to demonstrate this.

“Gentlemen, allow me to introduce: the Quinian Long Rifle version IV.”

He gave the rifle another twirl for extra effect. At this, the Arbiter burst.

“This is all you have to offer?” The Kinaaryu affronted angrily, “An ungainly and impractical oversized toy? Prince Longinus, you insult us with the presumption that this mockery would ever impress us! We are the Dragon Lords, not some lowly enterprise to be coaxed with charming words and Persuasive magic!”

Longinus expected this reaction, but didn’t know what the Arbiter meant about persuasive magic.

“Lord,” Longinus maintained his smile, “I would never dare to presume that you would accept gifts of anything but the finest wares and latest technology. That is why I bring you the most innovative rifle technology in Panak. Quin has always been famous for its gun technology, and other than some acclaimed dwarven clans, our rifle production value is second to none. Before now, we have never shared our technology with the outside world, and the long rifle is our finest creation.”

He gripped the gun fondly, once again advertising it with his manner.

“Lords, the Long Rifle has the best long distance range of any gun in the known world. Imagine, being able to kill your enemies from a distance that they couldn’t reach with the biggest trebuchet they could find. Imagine holding the fire power of a small Howlitzer cannon, in lightweight form in your hands. No other gun rivals this one my lords, and the Quinian army know from experience that even a handful of trained Long riflemen can turn the tide in any battle.”

“But… but how would you aim from such a distance?” The Rogyar piped up from the left, “Surely conventional sights would be useless from the huge distances you are suggesting.”

Longinus pulled back a locking lever on the top of rifle, revealing a strange magnifying system built to sit on the barrel.

“Every rifle has a built in looking glass with adjustable lenses and self-calibrating aiming system my Lord. It also includes a standard barrel sight for more short distance fire. It might seem ridiculous, but no rifle before the Quinian Long has needed a looking glass for a sight because no rifle before the Quinan Long could fire such a distance and remain lethal.”

More murmurs began.

The Kinaaryu still looked sceptical. “All well and good Prince, but this description seems so impossible that I am compelled to believe not a word of it, and were you to demonstrate it, I would have to assume that the gun has been altered using the Arts.”

Everything was going exactly as planned.

“Let your finest Enchanters examine it Lord,” Longinus assured, “I swear on my life it has not been touched. The Rifle is purely mechanical, and influenced only by the magic of pure genius. I propose a demonstration when daylight finds us once more. Some wonders, the eye has to see for itself.”

The Dragon Lords all looked at each other, and seemed to come to some decision.

“Tomorrow at dawn then, Prince, you will show us this feat of craftsmanship that apparently not even the dwarves can grasp. I will pit you against the Rogyar's finest marksman in a long distance shoot off. We will see if this technology can speak for itself.”

Edited by RNSM, 01 March 2010 - 11:42 AM.

[Crimson Lego]

As the carriage slowed down to a stop, Leo awoke from his deep sleep. That was good. Rubbing his eyes as he sat up, he looked around at the outside surroundings. ?Where are we?? he asked the driver.

?Lake Cha,? was the answer. ?We didn?t get stopped much, so we?re about an hour early. Feel free to take off.?

Climbing out of the caravan, the dwarf spoke a few words of thanks, handed over his traveling fee, and headed in the direction of Kinaancha. As he headed for the nearest dock that ferried people between the small island and the mainland, Leo recalled the legends of what was once the greatest empire in the entire world, and those that enforced it. The Dragon Knights?are long gone. They won?t be coming back. He remembered how a civil war in the Order occurred after the fall of the Empire, which destroyed the power of the organization. Some of the original knights still existed in the capital, but the dwarf doubted they still had much power left in the real world. Their time is over; maybe they should just pack up and assimilate somewhere else. However, he also believed that the Knights represented a major part of Sharom?s history, and should make their mark before dying. If nobody remembers the Empire or what they?ve done, a lot of stuff is gonna be gone forever.

Vaulting over a metal railing and continuing to a shoreline structure in the distance, Leo looked towards the isle where Kinanncha stood and wondered what he would be able to find there. Artifacts or money, perhaps? It?s not unpopulated, but a souvenir would be nice to have. There aren?t too many of those these days. Finally getting closer to the dock, he replaced his weapon in the sash and moved towards the skipper on the deck getting ready to row off.

?Hi there,? greeted the dwarf. ?I was wondering if you?d be able to take me across??

?Sure; as a matter of fact, I?m going there right now, so you can get this trip for free?, replied the man gently.

?Thank you, sir. I really appreciate that.? Taking a seat in the vessel, Leo leaned back and watched the clouds move slowly across the sky.

[Steel Samurai]

Two dirty beige boots stuck out from underneath the roughhewn oak table, left foot crossed over right. They were attached to two extremely long, skinny legs, currently clothed in rough gray trousers. A bowl of thick, hearty gruel sat on the table above the legs, currently untouched, accompanied by a tankard of steaming hard cider. The plate was wreathed in light smoke, which emanated from the bowl of a birch pipe. The long stem touched two thin, pale lips, which sucked on it gently. Light brown hair and a rough beard sat in contrast to the pale, weak robin's egg blue of the man's eyes.

"You gonna eat that gruel, Geren?"

A bald, pug-nosed man sat opposite him, eyeing the full bowl with greedy eyes.

"Be mah guest, Zane." The light drawl of his accent bespoke his birthplace in the Southeast, near the Vano Labyrinth.

Zane reached across the table and grabbed the edge of the earthenware bowl, a smile lighting up his face as he pulled it across the table to himself. He paused for a moment, a flicker of hesitation crossing his broad, expressive face.

"You sure you don't want this?"

Geren suppressed a smile.

"Yes, you son of a centaur, eat it. It's good gruel. They put raisins in it."

Dragon Knight fare was rough, but extremely healthy and filling for the amount of activity regularly undergone by them. There were no roast pigs or entire calfs to be had, at least not regularly. Each member of the organization, from the lowliest initiate at Castle Dvorek to the Kinaaryu himself was expected to remain in superb physical condition (relative to their age, of course). Thus, the massive kitchen which serviced the entire citadel was focused on providing the healthiest possible fare for the Knights when they were at home.

Zane dug his pewter spoon deep into the bowl, bringing it back to his lips with a smile.

"So who's this whelp they've got you babysitting?" He said. Well. Actually it was more like "shwhozishelpevegoyoubabyshitting" because his mouth was full of gruel, but Geren knew what he was saying. They had had many conversations in which Zane's mouth was full of food.

"His name is Wilhelm von Schlieffen of Jut. Son of a Heinenschaachi Baron apparently."

"prtshsmuch?" [Pretentious much?]

"He's Heinenschaach nobility. They place more value on such things there."

Zane swallowed. "You can't throw a stone in K'un without hitting one title or another. No one gives a rats ass about who your father or brother was, as long as you can kill well or make money."

"Sir Eustace saw him pass the trial of Skill. He said his agility and reflexes were impressive."

Zane snorted. "Pro'ly be another of those bloody idealists the Academy seems to be pumping out recently."

Geren sighed. "Perhaps. Only time will tell. Ah . . ." he paused as a massive figure stepped into the light pouring into the room through the large doorway. Zane turned and let out a low whistle. "'zat our boy?"

Wil glanced around the room, sparsely occupied at this time of day. His gaze lit upon Geren and Zane, and he started towards them.

"It seems so, mah old friend. It seems so." Geren responded under his breath, and stood to greet Wil, extending his hand. "Sir Wilhelm von Schlieffen of Jut, I presume." the Heinenschaachi words were pronounced perfectly.

"Yes sir. Sir Geren the Quick?"

"I'm afraid my epithet is not nearly as impressive as yours."

Wil paused. "But you earned yours, sir. Mine I have had since birth. Yours is of much more value, as I see it."

Zane stood and laughed, his stocky figure jiggling slightly. "I may grow t' like ye boy. May. M' name is Sir Zane. No title."

Wil shook his hand heartily.

"By the Dragon's beard you're a big one." he said, eyeing him ruefully. "There's not many men I'd shy away from fighting, but I've a feeling I'd not be keen on getting into a scrap with you on the other side."

Wil smiled. "Another thing that I was born with, Sir Zane. And not even close to an unmitigated good, even in battle."

Geren chuckled. "Well you've made yourself one friend at least, Sir Wilhelm."

"Please, call me Wil."

"Alright Wil. Now, has the council informed you as to the mission?"

"Yes sir."

"Please, call me Geren." Geren smiled. "I see you've gotten your armor. Good. We leave at dawn tomorrow."