GrueMaster

Cian grinned at the loud rumble emanating from Skye's stomach. "Yes, I agree, Skye, food sounds really good right now and shouldn't wait. This way..." The intern led everyone to his favorite vending machine in the world and got everyone's personal pizzas and drinks before taking a seat at one of the break tables. *Hmmph* "Okay, so..." *gulp* "Sorry, college habits die hard." He began, apologizing mid-bite. "As soon as we're done, I'll show you all to the testing rooms." He looked around thoughtfully for a moment, then spoke up again. "Ever think this would ever be possible? Virtual reality? Heh, sure is strange, going from reading books to designing virtual environments practically as real as life. Wonder what my grandparents would think... Anyway, enough wool-gathering on my part. I'm rather partial to pondering aloud sometimes!" Hiding his mild embarrassment, Cian looked at his fellow players. "What kind of games do you all like to play? I'm only asking now because it will help with the testing. We have a broad selection of environments and settings to accommodate most players' wants and needs, and knowing what you all like and feel comfortable with can help out a lot."

Don't worry about it, Mason. Things will be where you left them, if you like. And, no, your inactivity isn't the cause of anything (just kidding, HOW DARE YOU!?!? XD ). Hope things get better for you.

Motley little crew... Cian thought to himself with a smile as the newcomer started abruptly and just as quickly stopped. "Oh, no problem at all, ma'am. Just in time for this group, actually. As I was telling our fellow beta testers, I'm Cian and I'll be joining you all in the test. " Now, then..." Looking past the players and seeing no one else coming immediately, he waved them to follow. "Since I don't see anyone coming right now, let's grab some food really quick. Freedman! I'll go ahead with this lot, start with the tour and such! Will you call down the others, help prep for the other players as they arrive?" The receptionist waved her acknowledgement and went back to work. Leading the way to the elevator and hitting the call button, Cian spoke in whispered tones as he led the way. "To be honest, the cafeteria is a bit of a joke actually; t'is a hall we've remodeled temporarily with some local catering company. Rather cheap food, in my opinion, not the greatest stuff to be feeding to our guests, but it gets the job done. However, if you guys promise not to tell," a conspiratorial grin flashed across his face. "We can stop by the main break room we have, which has a nice little food bar set in. We even have one of those newfangled pizza-vending machines... that thing is so awesome! When an automated machine can build you the best mozzi-ricotta-bacon-chicken-with-olives-on-half pizza you've had perfectly, man, let me tell you..." *Ding!* "By the by, the elevator music is just as terrible as the catchphrase, so," He walked through the elevator doors as they opened, "May I have the honor of your names to help lessen such indignity? Username or irl-name, either one's fine, whichever one you feel comfortable with sharing. I go by "Omni" whilst online, myself."

"Tierney, you better get downstairs! Seems a few of the beta testers are early and have been waiting, and our receptionist is late yet again!" Cian sighed as one of his supervisors yelled across the hall he worked in. Why did I volunteer to do the meet-n-greet? "On it, boss!" The intern yelled back, standing up and heading to the main elevator to the lobby. Trying not to get the terrible tune playing stuck in his head, he focused on his appearance, straightening his polo shirt, and was more than glad to escape the elevator music as soon as the doors to the lobby opened. Counting three people, two men and a woman, milling about idly. Clearing his voice, Cian spoke up loudly to be heard. "Greetings and salutations! Welcome to C2Believe Headquarters; where virtual reality is the only reality!" Looking around and making sure none of his coworkers were around. "And trust me, there are plenty of other terri-bad mottos like that floating around here." Chuckling, the intern introduced himself. "I'm Cian, your friendly tour guide, fellow beta tester, and all-around good guy ginger. I'll be showing you the area where we'll be holding the tests and joining you in the game to see how things work from the players' perspective. I apologize for the poor reception. Someone's supposed to be at the desk, but they're late this morning, hence our slow reaction in welcoming you-- Ah! Here she now. Morning, Freedman! Wake up in time to smell the ashes?" The receptionist rolled her eyes and got to work behind desk. Smiling, Cian turned back to their guests, glancing at his watch. "Since we're a little early, the testing rooms aren't quite ready yet. Would anyone perhaps like a quick stop at our cafeteria before heading up?"

Name: Cian "Omni" Tierney Gender: Male Age: 23 Physical Appearance: Cian strikes an unassuming figure, being rather skinny and standing at 5'11". Pale complected, with light freckles, messy red hair, and unassuming green eyes peer out from under a pair of plain glasses, Cian is plain to look at, not winning any beauty contests but not ugly, either, and comes across as an archetypal nerd of Irish descent, especially when at his job at C2Believe in his office uniform (though the laugh lines and modest beard make him appear older and more mature than he really is, and he is surprisingly athletic). When not at work, he often wears jeans with a plain t-shirt. Personality: Though taciturn and introverted, Cian is surprisingly friendly and fun-loving, and possesses a sharp sense of humor (though his friends find his puns to be a form of cruel and unusual punishment). Omni is focused and hard-working, preferring to take a methodical approach to tasks one piece at a time, and dislikes needless interruptions and laziness (and other forms of "unprofessionalism," as he'd put it). Despite this, he is easy-going when there's nothing that needs doing. Ironically, Cian gravitates towards being a jack-of-all-trades, a fact that sometimes clashes with his single-minded nature. Favored game franchise(s): StarCraft, WarCraft, Half-life, Mass Effect, Halo, Mount & Blade, Warhammer 40K, Command & Conquer, Red Faction, Devil May Cry, Dungeons and Dragons, Pathfinder, Star Wars; Cian is drawn to rpgs and strategy games, but if a game looks interesting, he likes it. Occupation: As part of an intern program needed for college credit, Cian works part-time at C2Believe, helping with testing the rough concept and programming design while balancing it with his school workload. He dislikes having to split his attention between work and college, but it was a necessary evil, he gets to work with video games, and he gets both pay and class credit, so it doesn't bother him too much. Background: Cian grew up the middle child of the classic suburban family, staying out of trouble but not doing much of note either. Enjoying outdoor activities and sports, succeeding in his academics, and loving games, virtual and physical, he got the nickname "Omni" from his classmates in high school because of how he liked to participate in everything catching his fancy. Being smart and athletic, most of his peers and family members assumed he would go on to become someone important, so it came as a surprise to everyone when he declared he wanted to go into video game design, stating that he wanted to "do something fun," and has worked incredibly hard to that end.

Nice sheet, Toky! Approved.

I think that'd be okay. Go ahead and edit your sheet. I appreciate your asking beforehand. :)

Hai! Grue here, one of your friendly thread co-founders. quertyzeldar, everything looks good to me, so Character Approved. Welcome to the RP. :) Just a general head's-up to you (and others reading as well), we won't have the main RP thread up until we get a few more folks in with their character sheets, so we can better hit the ground running. Shouldn't be long, though. ^_^ P.S.: If there are any questions/concerns, please feel free to ask and/or PM me.

We'tak excitedly nodded at Lucas' suggestion. "Yes! Really, any dance would be nice! I've never seen much in the way of softskin dances anyway, so this one cannot judge!" He continued playing, happy just to be around his clutchmates and having fun. Kaji just looked at the strange sight with some minor confusion, simply giving a shrug; there wasn't much he could do anyway. At least, not without burning half the place down, which I think the guests wouldn't like... He thought whimsically, before following after his friends and joining the party. "Well, it may be different, but..." The wu jen looked around as he nursed a drink, chatting idly with Hi-chan. "I kinda like this! Granted, the whole grandeur of everything and the ridiculous outfits on some of these pompous folk are a little boring, but really, not that bad!" "It may be wise not to mention your observations to said-folk..." His elemental muttered quietly, but couldn't help but agree that the atmosphere was pleasant, for a change. The duo was pleasantly surprised to hear We'tak playing music to a particular couple, enjoying the insectoid's wonderful song. "Master, how wonderful!"' She said, heading over to listen to more of the thri-kreen's music when she saw he was beginning to play again. Applauding softly, the wu jen looked around for any other signs of his companions, grinning broadly when he spotted Rameses being approached by a rather beautiful woman. What are they saying? He wondered as he tried to spy on them from the crowd, before cursing his unusual appearance. Aaargh, I can't get closer, Rameses would spot me instantly... unless... Kaji began to smile wickedly as a spell came to mind. It would be something of a waste, buuut... And Hi-chan wouldn't know either... "Ah, screw it. What could go wrong?" At that, he went to one of the countless mirrors decorating the place, making sure no one was watching him, and cast a powerful scrying spell to spy on the distracted fire genasi. The magical eavesdropper, however, quickly stopped smirking when he began hearing the exact details of their conversation. Captured? Cursed!? What in the spirits' names is going on?! He thought as he listened to the dire situation his friend had just been set up with. Rameses, come on, even *I* know better than to fall for that! The wu jen raged quietly as he overheard the arrangement this "Harlock" had set. He released the spell, all mirth gone from his expression. How dare they threaten Ramesesama! Managing to mask his emotions for once, he stepped lively towards his down-trodden friend and slapped his back, smiling greatly. "Ramasesama! Why do you look so dour? Come now, we all face rejection in life, but we still have our health and lives, right?" Kaji reasoned, a clearly exaggerated serious expression on his face. "Though wounded on the field of battle, true warriors such as us shall remain stalwart until victory is ours! Come!" Kaji laughed as he grabbed a couple of drinks from a passing servant and handed one to the fire genasi. "Let us enjoy this night, my good friend!" Inwardly, the wu jen felt equal parts guilt over spying on and lying to his friend and anger over those who would harm him so as he began plotting how to burn this interloper to ash in vengeance. Harlock... you are going to regret ever crossing the Great Kaji!

Macman, I have trouble believing that NOTHING could be found about the world lore. I did a basic google search on "elves in faerun" and the Forgotten Realms Wiki (which is listed in the second post of this thread by Naktis as being a good source of information) was the very first hit on the results, so it is not that difficult to find even basic information. Branching out from that search alone should have been simple enough. Along with this, I personally have mentioned to you that if you had any questions, please feel free to contact me with any questions. Yet you made no mention whatsoever that you were having problems with the lore or were uncertain about particular topics and/or ideas. When all else fails, why not ask your fellow RPers, some of whom have been writing in this very setting for quite literally years, and could have answers you need? I am more than happy to help (ask any of the others; I almost spit out too much info, lol), but sometimes I have to be asked. I've been asked by nearly every member of ToF for the past 2-3 years about stuff, and I have no problem at all with lending advice or knowledge. As the song "Lean On Me" goes, "I'll share your load, if you just call me." Communication goes both ways, meaning you should have mentioned something as well in the face of difficulty. It's that simple. Situations like this simply became too commonplace for some folks' liking and patience. Besides, there was time to ask someone what was possibly going on/ being planned before it got to this point. Communication is key, yes, but again, it goes both ways. Just wanted to throw my two-bits in, here. And again, (this goes for everyone else, too), if there are questions related to the setting, both crunch-wise and fluff-wise, my door (aka: mailbox) is open. :smile:

Kaji sighed, bored by the pompous party goers and lack of wild festivities. Seeing as how Rhaine and Rameses walked off when summoned, he couldn't help but follow. At least something interesting is happening... He thought, closing in on his friends. "Master?" Hi-chan interjected, "What are you doing?" *Shhh* "Something is going on... I'm just going along to see what's happening, that's all." Shaking her head but knowing there would be no swaying her bored master, the fire elemental quietly followed suit. What in spirits' name? The wu jen thought upon seeing Sparrow as he sauntered up by the fire genasi. "Ramesama? What is going on?" ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We'tak looked at Leif curiously, then with some small trepidation as he heard his clutchmate describe nobles. "Stuffy noble softskins are life-suckers? *Tck...* "I do not know if it is such a good thing to be around them, then..." He then remembered that Sir Gregor and Lady Rosalinde were both "nobles," and surmised that Leif was surely joking. Such nice people would not be so nice, if that were the case. The thri-kreen shook his head at himself for not picking up on his friend's jest earlier and dismissed his worry. "Gifts!" *CHEE!* We'tak chirped excitedly as Leif's words about bringing things to the gala reminded him. "We should bring gifts to this celebration!" *Chee!* "And it is my birthmoon, too... how could I forget!?" He exclaimed, becoming increasing animated as an idea began to form in his mind. "Leif, we need to stop by the inn and get my gythka!" Pulling the hem of his dress up, the insectoid began running quickly, mindless of the strange looks he garnered, so eager was he for his little gift to the mating softskins... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- *Sssss...Weee...Sssss...* The young thri-kreen panted, being slightly winded by his recent frantic run to the gala. Worth it... he murmured, not even bothered by the trouble he had at first getting in. Once it was proven he was an invited guest, that problem become nothing more but a vague memory in his mind as he began his search for Rosalinde and Gregor. Giving a cheerful shriek when he spotted them, We'tak scurried over to them, practically skipping along the way. "Sir Gregor and" *tck...* "Queen Rosalinde," We'tak called to them with a slight bow, hesitating at what to call the female and deciding upon that title as remembered the one Sin had mentioned. "Mother Moon's blessings upon your bonding." "We welcome thee, ah, Lady We'tak..." Sir Gregor replied, equally hesitant, the dress We'tak wore throwing off his words from their initial meeting back on that road. "You have grown much since we parted last." Lady? We'tak puzzled this quietly. These titles are so confusing... Putting his frustration aside, he nodded happily at the softskin. "Yes! It has taken a little time to get used to being so much taller, but I am thankful for Mother Moon's blessing." *Chee!* "Speaking of which, it is my birthmoon tonight, and since this is your wedding, too, this night is even more special, one to be cherished forever..." He began, chattering in a surprisingly calm, somber tone. "I do not know what softskins like to have as gifts, but, I wanted to give one to you two all the same, so..." The thri-kreen pulled out his metal cords and strung his gythka, plucking them softly until satisfied with their sound. "Thiss one would like to play a song of my people for you in honor of this occasion." "We would be honored," Rosalinde said, curious to hear what this strange creature might play. We'tak nodded, and began playing a jovial tune on his strings, whistling softly in time. Its lilting pitch exuding a blissful tone, one could almost imagine two clutchmates living happily together, celebrating life itself as they lived it as one. This went on for several breathes, before softly ending on one last cheerful strum. Both Gregor and Rosalinde clapped softly, the latter of the softskins wiping gently at the tears forming at the corner of her eyes. Allowing the strings to hum until silent, We'tak gave a slight bow before speaking. "Among my people, memories are passed from clutchparents to hatchlings. Some are good, and some are bad, but these memories help shape who we are as kreen. And even though our lives here are short, our memories are eternal, and go on to shape those that follow." He paused, hoping he was making sense. "Thiss song honors all the happy memories that thri-kreen live, that thri-kreen may always remember there is good in life. This one wishes you two may have nothing but beautiful memories to share together, and to pass on to your hatchlings." "Thine people sound quite wondrous, Lady We'tak," Gregor said. "Thou truly possess a great talent." "Indeed!" Rosalinde agreed, a happy smile adorning her face as she curtsied. "Thank you very much for this gift. Oh, love, we should invite We'tak to play for us again sometime!" *Chee!* "I would be happy to play for softskins again." The thri-kreen responded in kind, ecstatic at the compliments he had been given. "Now, I must find the rest of my clutch... Have you seen them, by the way?" "I believe the young squire traveling with you is over there." The couple pointed, and We'tak spotted Lucas, and Maydirra alongside him. "Many thanks! May the spirits bless you!" At that, he left, quickly walking over to his clutchmates and embracing the two. "Clutchmates!" He exclaimed, before his usual verbal barrage began. "So this is a wedding?" *Tck-tck* "It seems very nice. Although, what is there to do? Is there a ritual, or music or something...?" He trailed off, having seen a few softskin couples dancing to music that other softskins were playing. "Oh, dancing! So that is what softskin dance is like? Hmmm..." He detected slight mating scents from some of the softskins dancing, and took note of that as well. Interesting... Seeing how his clutchmates seemed nervous, the thri-kreen suddenly had an idea to help them. "Clutchmates should dance, too!" We'tak said abruptly, nudging the two together. "I can even play the music for you, and you will not even have to worry about other softskins!" The thri-kreen excitedly prepared another song from his inherited memory, this one being slower and more gentle, its player thinking to give his friends a nice soft tune to dance to. As he moved further into the song's intro, We'tak waved a free hand at Maydiira and Lucas, urging the two begin, his eyes cheering them on...

Kaji grumbled in irritation at the line before them. He had been excited, ecstatic, even, to attend a festival, especially a foreign one; he rarely got to go to the ones back home. And now you're stuck waiting... "Hi-chan..." the wu jen began blathering. "Would it be so horrible if we sped things up a bit?" The fire elemental looked at him with suspicious eyes, fearing what the crazy fool might suggest. "You and I, we could, you know, make a few people hot under the collar, or give them a bit of hotfoo- *Thud!* "Ow!" He exclaimed as the familiar chastised him with a fiery fist. "Kaji-kun, burning people ISN'T an alternative to speeding things up!" Kaji pouted. "I know, I know! No need for hitting me for the idea, though! I'm just so bored!" "What do you know, the weak rat of a hedge-mage... The Plane of Fire must have frozen over for you to be in attendance here." A posh voice, dripping with contempt, called aloud, directed at Kaji. He turned, bewilderment turning to anger in an instant as he discovered the source of the insult to be the wizard that force-manhandled him during his initial stay in town. "You!" The wu jen began to step forward, ready for a fight, but Hi-chan intervened. "Master, you know better! Don't let him egg you on!" "Your little campfire there is a bit mouthy to its master, isn't she? Such a weakling, allowing one's familiar to speak like it's an equal. Of course, it does seem to have a bit more sense than you do, so maybe that isn't such a bad thing." Kaji trembled in rage at the impetuous man, ready to tear him asunder. Weak, am I!? But, he stayed his hand, remembering his promise to Ramesesama. You swore you wouldn't cause your friends any more trouble! With terribly great effort, he contained the fire rising within him and ignored the insulting stranger. "Hahah, I thought you were weak. Not even worth the attention I, Merethinus, wasted on you." "Let's get a move on, yes?" Kaji said to his companions, inadvertantly raising the temperature around him. It grew uncomfortably warm in the space surrounding him as his anger simmered outward, but it got the line moving a little faster, at least... "Um, is there a certain way we are supposed to walk to the ball together, Leif?" We'tak asked his clutchmate with a curious tilt to his head. "I saw all those softskins in dresses placing a hand on another softskin's arm, right about here..." He gestured, pointing at Leif's elbow. "I do want to learn what I can of this culture, but this time, I want to ask before making an assumption..."

"Me? Envious? Hah!" Kaji laughed at the genasi's jab. "I have my own wondrous style, thank you! As for the fighting pits, alas, whilst I would enjoy the fighting as much as the gambling, it would not prove too much of a challenge, or perhaps too dangerous of one; Either my foes would probably have to resort to lethal means to take me down, or they'd throw me out for cheating." Nodding at Rameses, the wu jen stood away from the bar. "Yes, the lady is quite dour, isn't she? Well, Ramesesama, Hi-chan," He took a brief moment to check that he was presentable before turning to follow. "Let us go and enjoy this night!" We'tak walked idly along the streets as he drowned in depression. Suddenly, he heard a familiar voice addressing him. "'Purty bug?'" The thri-kreen looked at Leif strangely before responding a bit more sharply than intended. "I do not know what you mean by 'purty,' but I am not a bug!" Cheeing deeply, he looked at the softskin with sadness and frustration. "Sorry, Leif... Thiss one is simply tired of no one answering questions and being scolded when they are asked. I mean, how am I supposed to learn and become stronger and better... if I can't learn because of our differences?" *Chee?* "You changed clothes..." We'tak remarked, just now noticing the change in his clutchmate's appearance. "How did you do that so quickly?! It took me most of Mighty Sun's time just to get this on!" He looked distastefully at the bulky blue outfit he was burdened with. "Oh, the celebration! Were you not going to go?" He asked, before realizing his friend had actually come to check on him rather than leave for the gala. "You came to help me, didn't you? Well... thank you, Leif." Without waiting for a response, he gave the softskin a great hug, appreciating his friend's kindness. "You are a good clutchmate." Straightening his dress and posture, the thri-kreen gave a click of satisfaction. "We should probably rejoin our clutch, yes?"

We'tak shied away from Conall's sharp interruption, looking not unlike a whipped dog, fearful of its master. "But why, Conall..." He whined sadly. "With all the mating scents in here, and with how similar Rhaine and Leif looked... I thought everyone was already talking about it... and it was so much like thri-kreen tradition, I thought... I thought..." I thought what...? His words dropped off as the realization fully set in; thri-kreen and softskins are very different. He glanced at the crowd around them, finally understanding that the softskins don't communicate like his people does, can't pick up the vast words, emotions and expressions hidden within pheromones, not even fully capable of expressing their own thoughts and feelings aloud at times... I am alone here... aren't I? This understanding sent a shock through to his core. He knew this all along, but he had hoped it might change, or might not be so significant. His body language now speaking loudly of a wounded and suddenly-lonesome spirit, We'tak couldn't meet Conall's eyes as he chittered quietly "Thiss one iss sorry..." With that, the depressed, confused thri-kreen turned and left the inn, heading for the city gates. Mother Moon... why is it so hard...? Kaji laughed at first as things were thrown greatly out of proportion, but sobered down a fair bit when he saw how the insectoid took Conall's words. Feeling bad about the poor young creature, he sympathized with how We'tak might feel about being different. I'm rather an expert on the subject, aren't I? He thought sardonically. But, he didn't know how to approach, and only watched as the thri-kreen left. "Oh, I'm sure he will be fine, Hi-chan!" The wu jen countered the fire elemental's condemning look. "He just needs a little time to himself to meditate on things! Now, Ramesesama, come clean..." He said, walking over and throwing an arm around his friend. "You must confess to me; Where on this plane of existence did you learn your sense of fashion? The geisha? HAHAH!" He slapped the fire genasi's back as he waved for a drink from the bartender. "Come! Let us be merry and celebrate our triumphs and good fortunes!"

We'tak stretched as he stood up, stiff chitin popping at the joints, and greeted the new day with barely-contained excitement. He had spent the night in prayer, hoping that his clutch, members near and far, all remained safe, but once Mighty Sun arose, the thri-kreen's concerns soon faded to the depths of his mind. Today, I get to go to a softskin celebration! But... this may be a great challenge... He thought grimly. He was struggling to get the dress on. The young insectoid had taken it off before resting for the night (It supposedly kept it looking nice, as he overheard the softskins saying). Even though he had an exceptional memory and could recall how he got it on, albeit with help, We'tak was struggling to put it back. However, he absolutely refused to ask for help this time; A thri-kreen, even though one should rely upon the clutch for survival, should be able to survive alone as well. This was no different. He heard his clutchmates going by, but he was not done yet, determined to "look nice" for his clutch, and finally, after his great ordeal, the bright blue dress and bonnet was fully donned. It was quite the spectacle as he made his way downstairs. With the vibrant dress, and his attempt to walk in the same "proud, regal manner" he'd seen the softskins walking, We'tak could only be described as awkward, if only he knew that was how he appeared. He felt rather pleased with his personal success, and failed to notice the odd glance or dozen thrown his way. "Rhaine and Leif are wearing same cloth?!" He exclaimed, before scurrying over to the matching pair, lower hands daintily holding the hem of the dress up as he was shown to keep it from getting caught underfoot. Studying his clutchmates closely, there was only one conclusion the thri-kreen could arrive at: "Have clutchmates decided to mate?" We'tak asked, that curious tilt only made more noticeable by his bright bonnet. Mating thri-kreen will sometimes use a talisman to show the bond, so maybe this was how the softskin "marriage" equivalent. *Chee...* He chittered, having overheard the slightly heated conversation between Leif and Rhaine and trying to resolve it. "Well... Winged Pointy-ear is the Alpha of the clutch, and so clearly would have the power over the mating bond, so she would get to decide what to do, Leif." He explained according to thri-kreen tradition. "Thiss one would do whatever she wishes, Leif. She has proven to be a good, strong clutchleader, and has blessed you by choosing you as her mate... You should be honored! Although... Does this mean we will be having softskin hatchlings soon?" *CHEE!* Leaping from one conclusion to another, the prospect of possibly seeing softskins being hatched made the excited thri-kreen even more animated, with more awkward questions being spewed forth, such as how many hatchlings would there be, and whether the children would all have wings, or pointy ears, or be blessed by spirits by virtue of the power of their clutchparents, and all the ritual preparations they would have to make to bless the offspring in Mother Moon's Light... Kaji spotted the matching companions and then the blue-clad We'tak, watching in equal parts horror and ludicrous amusement as he watched the situation spiral rapidly into the realm of insanity, trying not to laugh and appreciating the much-needed refresher of spirits. He had spent the night in complete silence, nursing a pot of tea in the common room as he pondered his encounter the day before. Dark winds are blowing... What does it mean? Arrrgh, I hate riddles! Running his hands through his hair, the wu jen gave a frustrated huff. Hi-chan for her part, knew her master well, and kept silent, knowing her master would speak up once he had managed to sort everything out and was ready to share with her. But, while her master and the others were distracted by the rambling thri-kreen, she noticed the half-elf trying to attract Rhaine's attention. "Master," she said, pulling on his arm and bringing his attention to the newcomer. Nodding, Kaji spoke politely while sticking to his taboos. "I believe Rhaine-sama is busy at the moment, Hi-chan," He addressed the fire elemental before bowing slightly to the stranger with a smile. "She should be able to meet with her guest shortly. For now," tthe wu jen smiled, "Let's enjoy this beautiful blooming scene before it wilts away into history!"

Kaji fumed silently, angry about how easily his familiar gave him away. But his friends' expressions and words began to worry him. "It seems haste is needed... perhaps the city's guardian can aid us..." Hi-chan looked at her master strangely before realizing what he was about to do. "But, Master! You can'-" Ignoring the elemental, The wu jen took a deep breathe to focus himself, and prepared the spell he had in mind. Okay... hopefully, this will go well this time... "Path of the spirits, open, that I may walk with ye..." As he finished speaking the last words, he couldn't help but gasp as the world faded to a grey blur, his surroundings faint and washed out. By the spirits... Kaji could not help but think as he finally identified something that had been bothering him... This city had no guardian spirit... He had seen the lack of any sort of torii, the sacred spirit gates of the villages of his homeland, but he thought that maybe the giant gates, and all the western shrines he saw would make up for the lack of respect for the holy spirit watching over it. It hadn't occurred to him that the spirit wouldn't exist at all. Damn it, I need to hurry! He admonished himself for wasting time; he could not remain in this plane for very long. The atmosphere felt unusually heavy, as though a shadow was cast on everything. Something's wrong... where are they? Searching frantically, he rushed around, trying to find any spirit at this point, but there seemed to be an alarming dearth of these beings. What is wrong with this place? After burning through nearly half the spell's length, he finally found a minor air spirit. It seemed it was trying to... hide? "Blessed One!" Kaji cried out, trying to stop it from fleeing. Startled, the creature tried to flee, but Kaji cast another spell to block the two in. "Please, I need your help." He begged, kneeling before the spirit. "Please, tell me, why have the spirits forsaken this place?" "No... time... mussst... go... Daark windss... are blowing..." "Wait, what do you mean, dark winds?" The wu jen questioned, trying to get an answer before he was shifted back to the Material Plane. "NO TIME!!" Suddenly, the air spirit became highly aggressive and sent a strong gust of wind outwards, managing to overwhelm the unsuspecting mage and bowling him over before fleeing into the sky away from the city. The force of his fall on the ground winded him, interrupting his concentration just as his spell ended. Kaji reappeared on the Material Plane, prone and now next to one of the alley walls. "Master!" His familiar dashed forward and helped him up. "Sorry... just need to catch my breath... Still not quite used to doing that..." Looking at Conall, the wujen for once was not as animated as usual. "The spirits seem to have fled or gone into hiding, and I don't know why... We should probably head back now..." Clearly bothered by this, Kaji fell silent and began walking back to the Cheerful Sage, pondering the spirit's words. 'Dark winds...' what fortune is in the air for us now...? We'tak, bothered by the sudden disappearance and even more startled at the reappearance of his clutchmate laying prone and hurt moments later, became even more distraught at Kaji's words about the spirits. Mother Moon preserve us, he prayed, before following after Kaji.

Kaji huffed his relief at their getaway. "Okay... should be good now... Hi-chan," The elemental-now-halfling straightened attentively. "Watch the alleyway for us, would you? Keep an eye out for anything strange." She nodded quietly and turned to keep watch. He looked at Rameses as the fire genasi spoke, knuckles tightening as he listened and slowly became more angry at the worry wearing his friend down. "Ramesesama," The wu jen began, his grim-monk visage looking even more serious somehow. "If we can find a place that is more quiet and where I can concentrate in peace, I can attempt to contact the spirits of this land. One of them should be able to help us to learn of Eirene and perhaps this dishonorable man as well." He smiled. "Fortunately, I happened to prepare that ritual this morning, just in case." This last statement elicited a derisive snort from Hi-chan. "'Just in case'... You were planning on speaking with the spirits to learn who to place your bets on in one of those distasteful brawls, weren't you?" She retorted with a scathing accusation. "Of course not!" Kaji denied fervently, and would have gone to argue with the unruly familiar if not for the sound of what could be compared to the complaining mewl of a kitten... *Chee...* We'tak, though keeping quiet in concern for his clutchmates, and was, without a doubt, incredibly concerned by the trouble at hand, couldn't quite take the weight of his awkward disguise much longer. "Would we be able to turn back soon?" The thri-kreen asked timidly, clearly discomforted by the illusion. "Oh, um, sorry, We'tak." Kaji said, unsure of how to handle the situation. "But, if anyone is following us, they would know immediately of who we are if I release the spell. It would be safer to remain like this, I think, for the time being. My apologies for the hasty illusion, though..." He said, bowing to his companions. "It was the best I could think of in the moment." "Think of?!" Hi-chan cried out, incredulous. "You didn't even think! These are just some of the last people you happened to meet in person!" Pointing, in turn, to each of the guises, the fire elemental ruthlessly called out her master's lie. "That monk and this girl you made me happen to be Sensei's friends, that samurai was that one man chasing you for setting his stable on fire!" The wu jen stuttered, trying to interrupt, but Hi-chan was in full fury. "That geisha you turned poor We'tak into was that ridiculously overpriced female entertainer, who you spent the last of our money on... and as for that half-orc girl..." "HI-CHAN!" Kaji yelled suddenly, his voice breaking from his poorly-hidden shame, before clearing his throat. *Ahem* "Well, I suggest we try to find our way back to the others and regroup... you know, give us a moment to think, and I could see about that ritual..."

"Ramesesama?" Kaji called out in concern at the fire genasi's expression. He scanned the crowd around them in a vain attempt to spot anyone spying on them. "I don't see anyone... do you, Hi-chan?" "No..." She stated flatly. "Nearly everyone around us is taller than me, so I cannot see past these people." We'tak glanced around as well, his attention being drawn away from the moon-blessed metal weapons and focused on his clutchmate's distress. The thri-kreen began softly warbling a keening sound at the mention of Eirene. He had thought it had been a bad idea for her to leave, but he hadn't said so; eventually, every hunter must be alone. The possibility of her being in danger had him thinking otherwise, now. "Should we go search for Eirene?" We'tak chittered quietly, despite not knowing how to begin such a task; there were so many softskins here. At Conall's mention of finding a more private place to discuss things further, Kaji nodded. "Okay... I have something in mind... be ready to run, friends..." Attempting to hide the casting of his spell, the wu jen murmured an incantation. Suddenly, a thick bank of fog descended upon the crowd, which soon fell into disarray as the crowd began to panic. Amidst the yelling and bustling, Kaji cast another spell, this one changing the outward appearances of himself and his compatriots. "Okay," he said, once certain the illusion had taken effect. "Let's get moving now!" Leading the way out of the fog, the group emerged. Kaji now had the appearance of a monastery monk, wearing gray and white ascetic robes with a stoic expression about him, and Hi-chan looking like a young halfling girl following at the hem of his robes. He disliked those stuffy, bald stiffs, but right now, these disguises were the best he could come up with on the fly. We'tak gave a shriek of surprise as he looked down at himself. The blue dress he had been wearing had turned into a pink kimono, and the thri-kreen currently looked like a geisha of Kaji's homeland. By the spirits?! I'm a... softskin female?! Conall now appeared to be a proud samurai warrior, resplendent in black and silver great armor. Rameses, however, looked completely out of place, having been given the guise of what was quite possibly the ugliest half-orc women to walk the land, complete with barbarian furs that left little to the imagination. Kaji, however, gave no attention, instead focusing on leaving the area as soon as possible and leading the way from the scene. "Well, I hope we can find someplace swiftly before the spell ends..." The wu jen muttered. "Those people are not going to be pleased once it is over..."

Collab post with Mason up. ^_^

We'tak chee'd happily at the attention and food Sin was giving him, easily cheered up by the dark pointy-ear. "Many thanks to you, Sin!" He chittered in a joyful tone. "All this really does make me feel better. So, truly, thank you." The thri-kreen gave her a bow of respect from his seat. "You remind me almost of my clutchmother..." He said, pensively, studying his clutchmate. "She would stay by my side a lot, and always had some sort of food nearby." *CHEE!* We'tak gave a ecstatic whistle and embraced Sin in a strong hug, rubbing his head lovingly against her as he did so. "Aren't all clutchmates loyal to one another?" He responded to Maydiira's comment. "I know I am..." With that said, he released his hug and immediately went back to eating, his voracious appetite not slowing down anytime soon. "Right then, that should do it!" Kaji said, giving a stretch and a yawn as he finished his meditation. He had sat meditating all night to atone for his mistakes from the day before, and as he rose, the wu jen felt his power return as well. Once the troublemaking fire genasi heard his wu jen accomplice emerge from his meditative stupor, he quietly and quickly ducked into the hallway outside his room, careful to maintain his unknown presence. With a mug of water carefully placed atop Kaji's door and a water basin on the floor outside of it, the exotic spellcaster was in for quite the surprise. Hi-chan was rolling her eyes when she thought she heard something at the door. "Uh, Master..." Kaji, however, was too excited for the new day. "Oh, come on, Hi-chan, haven't I atoned en- AAAGH!!" *Bonk!* The wu jen shrieked in a high-pitch tone as water poured down his face and an empty mug fell squarely on his head. "Owww!" Disoriented, Kaji flailed forward, failing to spot the bowl sitting in the hallway as panic began to overtake him. His foot caught the rim of the basin and flipped it, and all the water therein was launched at him, thoroughly drenching him clothes as he tripped fell unceremoniously on the floor. Speechless, Kaji could only stare blankly up at the ceiling, paralized by confusion and trepidation by what happened. "Kaji-kun! Are you okay?" Hi-chan scurried to her prone master, patting him on the face in a fruitless attempt to get him to move. At the sight of such a miracle, Rameses exploded into a torrent of laughter, tears soon pouring from his eyes as his szuldar blazed with unprecedented energy. A small part of him pitied Kaji for the satisfying humiliation his reckless abandon had reaped, but the fire genasi indulged in his sweet victory. It took Rameses's sheer force of will to ensure he didn't topple to the floor in his bout of hysteric laughter. "It isn't a stool, but it'll do!" He wailed ecstatically, leaning a shoulder against the wall to stabilize himself. Water... water... surrounding me... choking me... Kaji was immobilized as the old sensations of drowning came back to him, his hydrophobia setting in. However, the sound of laughter snapped him out of the vicious trance, and the wu jen sat up, water dripping from his face. "Uh oh..." Hi-chan murmured as she felt the air grow hotter. Water now turning to steam, Kaji slowly stood up and gave a dark, baleful smile at his "friend." "Very clever, Ramesesama," He said, picking up the water basin. The bowl began to glow with heat, before suddenly shattering. "YOU'LL WISH I HAD A BARSTOOL, YOU CRETIN!!" He shouted, before charging at the fire genasi, his body engulfed in flames now. "Oh shi-" Rameses's increasingly regretful statement was swiftly interrupted when he bolted for the stairs, cursing in Ignan speech as Kaji remained hot on his heels, quite literally speaking. The fire genasi was quite familiar with fire, but the prospect of the wu jen's flaming hands around his neck was not at all enticing. In the matter of moments, the hot pursuit poured into the commons area, where Rameses then charted a hasty path for the nearest exit. "Ramesesama! Get back here!" Kaji yelled, running after the fleeing fugitive out onto the streets, with a protesting Hi-chan close behind, trying to stop her angry master. The trio disappeared as quickly as they had appeared, the only evidence of their presence being a set of scorched footprints leading outside. We'tak looked at his clutchmates in shock and confusion. "Are all fireskins like this...?" ========================================================================================= We'tak looked around in wonder from beneath his blue bonnet, simply amazed by the preparations for the "gala" around him. The thri-kreen, having been convinced to wear the dress and bonnet, was an odd sight to behold. He greatly disliked the clothing at first, feeling too constricted by it all. But, he acclimated quickly, and now didn't mind it at all. Besides... He thought with amusement as he pulled out a morsel from the dress's fold. It holds all sorts of tasty foods! "What should we do first? Oh, what is that!? Oh, could we get one of those?" All these and more flew from the thri-kreen's mouth, clearly enthralled by child-like enthusiasm for the festivities. "Does he ever keep quiet?" Kaji asked as he walked alongside Rameses. Though still somewhat angry with the fire genasi, he was more upset that he hadn't thought of the prank first. Clever imp... The wu jen struck an imposing figure, having cleaned up nicely for the celebration. Though he wore his usual attire, his clothes were cleaned to near-perfection for once. He was not the most orderly person around, but when important events were held, he made it a point to look as respectable as possible, and after a great deal of effort (and bravery, what with the water and all), Kaji had a spotless outfit. "So where do we start?" He asked no one in particular. "Personally, I would love to meet with all these mages... perhaps one of them will kindly share some arcane knowledge with me!"

The young thri-kreen went silent as the fireskin led the way for all, deeply touched and proud of the kindness his clutchmates, new and old, supported him without question or hesitation. This is truly a great clutch... He thought happily. Clutchfather, you were so wise! "Oh, wait for me!" We'tak chirped, realizing he was lost in his thoughts and being left behind, and sprang awkwardly after his clutchmates. "Winged Pointy-ear! Spirits bless yo-" *THUNK* *NRAK'TCK!* The insectoid cursed mid-sentence whilst wishing Rhaine good morning as he bumped his foot against a chair, misjudging the size of his legs. "That will take some time to be used to..." He muttered, before sitting down among his clutchmates. "So, Sin!" He looked expectantly at the dark pointy-ear female. "What do you think will be good for breakfast today? I think a lot of those apples would very nice..." *Wee!* The young thri-kreen thought idly for moment, pondering other foods that would be good right now. "Oh, and some of that bacon... yess, that would be good!" *CHEE!* The waitress, having overheard the want for apples, had actually grabbed a few of the succulent fruits he so enjoyed, and We'tak, being overjoyed at the sight of that, immediately gave his thanks and began devouring them. His anxiety from earlier completely forgotten for now, he gave a happy look at Sin, Rameses, and Maydiira. "I am very grateful for such nice clutchmates. Many thanks for being so!" *Chee!*

Collab post with Auri and Mason is up... :ohboi!: :D

The reason for Pekwe's agitated hissing soon became apparent as the sight of the husk of We'tak's exoskeleton on the bed came into view... Maydiira's silvery eyes widened as she beheld the sight, and she held a hand to her mouth, "Oh...my..." "What in the Nine Hells..." Rameses replied slowly, his eyes narrowing and his szuldar flaring violently with suspicion. "We'tak... You in here...?" The fire genasi called out cautiously, the corpse-like husk of the thri-kreen unnerving him a little. We'tak jerked slightly at the sound of the door opening, thumping his head against the closet as his fear increased. Spirits! I didn't block the door! When he heard the voices of his clutchmates, he felt some of that fear begin to fade, but the thri-kreen was still anxious. Not wanting his clutch to see him in such a state, We'tak stilled himself, hoping his thump wasn't heard and his clutchmates would leave. Pekwe, however, gave the game up. The snake slithered towards Rameses and Maydiira, hissing at them before turning to look at the shut closet. Maydiira watched the snake warily before calling in a tentative voice, "We'tak? Are you all right?" The thri-kreen gave what sounded like a squeak of sorts as Maydiira called out to him. "Would clutchmates go away?" A muffled reply came from the other side of the closet. "Thiss one iss not well..." Similarly, Rameses took careful note of Pekwe's behavior and observed the room for any other peculiar clues concerning their young companion. He recalled being such cat-and-mouse situations in his youth, so the genasi pulled the oldest trick in his arsenal of witty child-handling maneuvers, "We're leaving as soon as the horses are saddled, We'tak. Best come on out if you don't want to be left behind." Maydiira glanced to Rameses and then to the closet door, "If you're ill, I can heal you, young one." Rubbing his hands together, Rameses nodded in agreement and carefully stepped over Pekwe to apporach the closet. "Mhm, no sense in hiding, my friend." Carefully resting his hands on the closet door's knobs, the fire genasi curiously peeked inward in search for We'tak. "There are better hiding places, just to point out." *Chee...* A chirp of despair rang out in response. "But it is not safe, Rameses..." We'tak said, not quite realizing how strange that would sound to softskins. When he heard the doors he found refuge behind crack open, the thri-kreen shrieked softly, shielding himself reflexively. "Please do not look at this one!" He protested, before huddling up protectively over his now vibrant sand-gold chitin. "My chitin... it is so soft now... I do not feel safe..." Maydiira peered around Rameses and gasped aloud when she saw the thri-kreen, "Ohhhh, you poor thing. But look at it! It's so pretty!" Arching a brow, the genasi looked We'tak from antenna to toe and smirked, joking lightheartedly at the sight, "Nice tan. Now, come on out. Your clutch will keep you safe while you're still a big softie." Rameses figured using We'tak's terminology might ease the thri-kreen's tension. His antennae flattened against his head at his clutchmates' words. "But I do not want to..." All the same, the thri-kreen hesitantly stepped out of the closet, where it became clear that a change had come over him. First of all, and most noticeably, We'tak was taller... much taller; his head nearly reached the fireskin's eyes now. He shifted nervously, shivering at the feeling of exposure he was experiencing. His chitin was a much healthier color than it had been, and overall his stature had increased; he still possessed his slender physique, but everything was larger than it had been. "It feels so cold in here..." The thri-kreen chittered miserably. Maydiira didn't hesitate in unclasping the hooded cloak about her shoulders, sacrificing hiding her identity for giving We'tak a sense of safety. Draping it about him and securing it firmly, she said encouragingly, "There...better?" Rameses was intrigued as he witnessed the favored soul's endearing, almost motherly nature, and he gently patted the thri-kreen's shoulder once he had the luxury of her cloak. "There you go, We'tak, that aught to do it. So, how long does this last among your people?" He asked, gesturing towards We'tak's fresh chitin. Though he appreciated the care Maydiira showed for him, We'tak did not feel much safer. However, the warmth from the cloak she had been wearing gave him a some measure of comfort. "Thank you," He said softly before he looked at Rameses, uncertain. "I do not know... thri-kreen usually take over 72 moons before the ritual for adulthood... but I am so different... Do I have to go out?" He asked, not unlike a petulant child. "Also... did clutchmates grow smaller?" The thri-kreen inquired, now noticing how everything seemed somehow smaller to him suddenly. Maydiira chuckled, "If you wish to stay in the inn, I don't see why you can't. It's not like we're leaving the city anytime soon. And we didn't get smaller, but you did get taller." Rameses nodded firmly in agreement, his smile growing in response to the amusing thought. "At least a head taller, I'd wager. And May's right, you're welcome to stick around here until this wears off." Glancing over to the drow, the fire genasi mentioned less than enthusiastically, "I reckon we'll need to tell Rhaine that someone should stay here on thri-kreen duty?" "Oh..." We'tak chittered softly, now realizing his clutchmates were right; he had indeed grown a fair amount. "I would like to stay, yess..." Taking comfort in knowing he wouldn't have to travel, the thri-kreen felt a little braver. Awkwardly stepping forward, as he had not acclimated to his new size, he huddled closer to his friends. "Thiss one would prefer if clutchmates protected me..." He chirped nervously again. Maydiira glanced to Rameses again, "You...want us to stay with you, today?" "'Course we'd have one of us stay here with you, We'tak," Rameses replied reassuringly, briefly meeting the favored soul's glance, "We take care of our own. Besides, we might end up staying here a few days until we decide on our next course of action." "That would be nice..." The thri-kreen said, feeling a little better knowing his clutch would be there. "What is that smell?" He asked, antennae twitching in the direction of the open door. "Is that... food?" His stomach suddenly growled very loudly. *Chee...* "Could we get some food... together?" Maydiira laughed again, "Yes, We'tak, we can get food together. Come on, we'll protect you." With his usual grin, Rameses chuckled at We'tak's new anticipation for breakfast. "Aye, let's get down there." He agrees, leading them towards the door and the hallway beyond.

"Hmmm..." Kaji sat pondering Rameses' comment on that fiery experience he had. "Some natural ability meant for self-defense, maybe? Most interesting... Ah, I mean, it sounds like you could become a powerful magician of fire with that lineage of yours!" He added hastily at the sound of disappointment in his friend's voice. "And he doesn't even have to meditate and mind the spirits... so unfair..." He pouted, a bit of jealousy in his voice as he pondered the potential the fire genasi may have. *Nrack-tck!* We'tak cursed, continuing his struggle with the headpiece handed him earlier. Somehow, the strange thing evaded his understanding. "I have made my gyth'ka and worn armor... Why iss this so difficult!?" The thri-kreen muttered in frustration. Luckily, a barmaid came by and distracted him from that wretched cloth. "Oh, could I have ssome of those apples? They are so very sweet!" He chirped, the thought of those juicy red fruits making him salivate. They seemed simple enough on the stomach as well... that fight earlier had his chitin feeling tighter than before, and eating anything heavier did not appeal to his appetite. Waiting for the softskin female to return, the hatchling idly played with the 'bonnit' for a while before noticing how deep in thought SIn seemed at the moment. What is wrong with her? He chittered to himself in concern, and as soon as the plate of apples arrived (much to his delight), We'tak immediately sat down by her with his food. "These are sso delicious!" He exclaimed, pushing the platter of food between the two of them. *Chee!* "I wish my homeland had these fruits. Other thri-kreen would love thiss food. Would you like some? I was given very many, and I didn't see you eat much before that fight." He chattered in his usual rapid pace, mandibles chewing at a pair of apples between words. "You did help the clutch, and the clutch cares for all its members." After a few more quiet bites, he glanced at Sin. "Dark Pointy-ear's mind wanders far on the sands right now, yess?" The thri-kreen said quietly, using the expression his people used for those lost in thought. "Do not worry. Everything will be alright! We are clutchmates, after all!" He said cheerfully, before studying the blue cloth again. "I will need help with this..." *Tck'tck!* Sheepishly admitting defeat, he handed the 'bonnit' to his friend before standing. "Thiss one feels tired... I think I need to go rest. May Mother Moon bless you, Sin!" Taking a couple more apples from his plate (which now only had a few left, his appetite still managing to devour a decent quantity of food), We'tak left his clutchmates and left for the bedrooms, scratching at his now-uncomfortable chitin... "Maybe this could mean... Oh! Good night!" Kaji, spotting the insectoid walking by, was stirred from his concentration and wished the fellow well. "Anyway, I should probably go and meditate now, Ramesesama..." He spoke as he stood with a stretch. "It will be good having my spells back." "Hopefully you won't be so foolish next time." Hi-chan scolded him harshly. "Sheesh, Hi-chan! Alright, I'll be more mindful..." He laughed nervously. "Anyway, splitting up tomorrow may be good. I can claim to be from the Far East and heard about the gathering... perhaps the other magicians will be a little more welcoming. Well, I bid you goodnight, Ramesesama." The wu jen gave a deep bow. "Hi-chan and I are indebted to you. Please do not engage in any more fights... without me, anyway." Smiling, he left for a bedroom with his familiar in tow, and went to rest for the night. He had a lot of meditating to do to atone for his arrogance... ========================================================================= The next day, the young thri-kreen was not seen moving about as per his usual habit. We'tak did not come down at all, actually, shivering as he was in the dark confines of the large closet of his room and Pekwe hissing agitated in front of its doors, too afraid to leave...

Lol! The party should be entertaining, to say the least. XD