Elincia accepted the map with a smile. The warrior of Gunsmoke seemed trustworthy, and without any intention of war. Then again, just how much representative power he had over his part of the world seemed to be unsure. Some care would have to be taken.
"I thank you, Master Stampedius. Let us work hard to keep our people safe."
With the south-east taken care of, she realized that King-Regent Saber was still waiting for a reply from her.
"My apologies, King-Regent, for my delay. Now that Crimea's borders are safe, I'm delighted to announce that we will gladly accept Fuyuki's offer of peace between us. As to the offer of an alliance, I will have to take stock of Melior's current situation before we can give a binding reply. I hope your majesty understands that I have a responsibility to my citizens to first of all safeguard their situation. However, we have sympathy for Fuyuki's situation and are willing to help in any way that we can in the future. But instead of giving you empty promises at this point, my envoy will create a stable arrangement between us that we may both prosper from."
Meanwhile, Ike was relieved to hear Arrow's reply.
"Understood. We will look forward to hearing from you."
And then, the two representatives disappeared, their time up.
Back in Melior, Elincia at once called a meeting with her advisers. Ike drew up the map from memory for all to see, and they told all that they had learned at the Representative's Meeting.
"I shall go meet the representative from Starling," Count Bastian volunteered.
Elincia nodded.
"Please do so. You have my utmost trust. As for the north...Ike, will you go?"
"Sure, Soren and I will go."
"Do we have the necessary representation to agree to an alliance, if it is offered us?"
Elincia paused for a while.
"...no. You may write up a draft, but I must be the one to sign and ratify it. I trust your judgement, Ike and Soren, but in the eyes of the nobles still present, you are still outsiders. I think those terms will be acceptable to King-Regent Saber as well."
Soren and Ike nodded.
"Now, the south-west...we really do not know what to expect there."
"Your Majesty, if I may make a suggestion?"
"Yes, Geoffrey?"
The supreme commander of the Royal Knights had been quiet thus far.
"Captain Marcia stands ready with the newly organized Pegasus Scout Corps. As Lord Ike can attest to, she is a woman that can be trusted with the dangerous task. Furthermore, her Pegasus Riders, while lacking in experience, are well outfitted and capable of tackling all terrain. Should the worst scenario happen, they should be able to quickly give word back to Melior."
Queen Elincia nodded.
"I remember Marcia, and agree with your suggestion. Please have Captain Marcia get ready immediately."
"Yes, my Queen."
"Finally...the south-east. Youkai Mountain."
A silence reigned around the table for a short while, then Soren asked for the word.
"Since the Avatar, who may be a goddess, said that they would prefer sending their own envoy, we will have to take their word for it and not send one. If the area is as dangerous as the Representative of the Human Village said, then we can not risk upsetting them at this stage. However, what we need to consider in this event is the true intentions of sending an envoy here."
"It is a possibility that the religion of the area wishes to expand their range of influence as soon as possible. As far as we know, Lady Kanako Yasaka was the only religious leader present. If they are this eager to send an envoy here, they are very likely to attempt to try to spread their religion in doing so. The followers of the Goddess have become fewer after the war, but they are still numerous to the point where conflict is to be expected."
Lucia nodded.
"We also can not forget the effort the Goddess Yune has done to save us from the judgement of Ashera. Even though her influence may not have followed us here, we may have to consider where Crimea's loyalties lie should we have to choose between the new goddess and Ashunera."
Queen Elincia nodded.
"However, that is a matter that can wait until the envoy from Youkai Mountain arrives. For now, we have to concentrate on Crimea. How are we on supplies?"
"I have been checking our storehouses," Lucia reported. "We have plenty of supplies, this being the high season for trading, and we are close to self-sufficient. However, if we are to expand our military, we will have to increase our food production. With Your Majesty's permission, I will look into making the areas close to the capital that have earlier been spared from food production into farmlands and pasture."
Elincia nodded immediately.
"Please do so. Plant vegetables in the royal gardens, if need be."
"Your majesty, if I may," Soren chimed in again. "The sea to the east may hold important resources, especially when it comes to food and water. At the same time, we need to build up appropriate defences there."
Bastian nodded.
"A taskforce has to be sent east as soon as possible, preferably with someone with experience from coastal cities. In establishing contact with our neighbours, we will also have to look into the possibility of them having technology that will help us out in that regard...as well as other fields."
Queen Elincia nodded.
"I think we have illuminated all the important matters, then. Let us move quickly to put things into motion. We have little time to lose. Bastian, Ike and Soren, please be ready to leave as soon as possible. Geoffrey, give Captain Marcia her necessary instructions. Lucia, start the work on optimizing our resource gathering and gathering a group to investigate the east coast. If that is all...it is time I addressed the people."
Rumour spread fast in the streets of Melior. It was not long before all knew of the changes to the surrounding landscape, and that there was frantic activity in the Palace and among the Royal Knights. Therefore, a huge crowd had gathered in front of the gates to the Royal Palace to hear word from the Queen herself. They did not have to wait for long.
Queen Elincia stepped out, clad in white-gold robes and a sheer silk cape
. The court magician amplified her voice with magic, so that all would hear her announcement to the people.
"People of Crimea and visitors to Melior. As some of you may already have heard, our capital city and the surrounding countryside has been taken from the lands of Crimea and carried away to a foreign land. We are not alone in this situation, and share the fate of many settlements from lands previously unknown to us. New lands are now our neighbours, and I have spoken with leaders from these lands already. Several have already promised peace and we are initiating talks to cooperate in this new and difficult situation."
"Our safety is momentarily secured, but not all of the peoples present in this new world are interested in peace. Furthermore, challenges when it comes to food and resources are plenty. We face difficult times, and we will have to make difficult choices and necessary changes. In these difficult times, I personally ask of you all to work together with me in safeguarding the peace and stability of Melior and Crimea."
"Because we have faced difficult times before! We have endured wars, thrown off the yoke of oppression and occupation and even seen the end of the world stare us in the face! The people of Crimea are strong and resilient! Our hearts are strong, and through the care we have for each other, we can make it through difficulties. And we do not stand alone! We can build new alliances and create new opportunities in this new world. And with time, hard work and perseverance..."
"...we will find a way to return to our world!"
Not long afterwards, Ike and Soren were on their way north. They rode the main road out of Melior and could soon follow the asphalt road north towards Fuyuki.
Meanwhile, Captain Marcia flew west with five of her best Pegasus Riders. Their lances were dressed with white streamers to show their peaceful intent, and they flew close to the ground once they crossed over the border to Gunsmoke.
Bastian was the last to leave, having called in some extra help. He travelled south with his three servants, taking the main road south in hopes of meeting the envoy from Starling City on the road.
As Sanae expected, Melior
was easy to spot as she flew northwest from the Youkai Mountain. The white castle walls shone in the sunlight, and roads went in all directions from the Crimean capital. The Royal Palace was situated in the middle of the castle town, on top of a natural hill. The rest of the town sprawled below, guarded by walls and watchtowers. The watchtowers were manned, and Sanae was spotted as she approached. Thankfully, they had been told that visitors were coming and an officer called out to Sanae aided by a megaphone.
"Halt! Please state your intentions before entering Melior!"
...the greeting was in truth meant for visitors coming through the gates, but it might work for people coming through the air as well.
edited 6th Apr '15 11:45:59 AM by Lemurian
Join us in our quest to play all RPG video games! Moving on to disc 2 of Grandia!Iacon: Outer streets
Optimus spotted his team before they spotted him. From the looks of things, they had managed to stabilise a collapsing structure with makeshift girder supports, which Bulkhead was holding in place. Bumblebee was blasting away loose rubble with his stingers, before catching sight of his commander.
"Boss-bot! You're back! I was sure you were going to get slagged going along with Ratchet's crazy scheme."
"What's our status, Bumblebee?"
"One ginormous mess. It's not so bad the further into the central hub you go, but out here there's a lot of bots in need. Ratchet'll give you the full scope."
Optimus prime noticed a twitching servo underneath a collapsed wall beside Bumblebee, and he drew his axe, carefully but forcefully cutting away the obstruction, then wrenching the Autobot out of the wreckage. He didn't know her, but she was in a bad state, with her shoulder servo-link dislodged and circuitry exposed. She seemed to share Bumblebee's body type, a common enough model on Cybertron for the younger generations.
◊
"Can you hear me?" he asked, giving her a gentle shake to rouse her. "What's your name?"
She managed a nod, blinking.
"Glyph..."
"Optimus. Now, let's get you some help for that arm. Bumblebee, where's Ratchet?"
"Other side of the block," answered Bee, "patching up bots. Better hurry."
Prime nodded, hefting up Glyph and carrying the wounded bot along the street. He could see the Metroplex in the distance. As much as he wanted to make a difference out here in the outer district, the sooner Ultra Magnus was informed of just what was coming, the better. He'd drop this bot off and then get on his way.
He saw Ratchet up ahead, with three other Autobots under his care, laid out on the street beside him. The medibot was working on some kind of comm unit while they rested, and nodded to Optimus as he approached.
"Good to have you back, Prime. How was your trip. Good news?"
"Not the best," replied Optimus, setting Glyph down gently beside the other Autobots. "There was this cramped little meeting room full of—"
"Ah-bup-bup-bup, don't tell me. Tell them," interrupted Ratchet, gesturing to the Autobots laid out beside them. He held his comm unit to Optimus. "Tell all of them. There's still no word from the Council. Not a single announcement. I've wired this thing into the emergency PA system."
"So what am I supposed to do? Just start barking orders into it?"
"You can start with the truth. Whatever you've learned, every Autobot here deserves to know it. My abdominal actuators tell me something big is looming, and we can't risk letting this confusion last another nanoklik. And we definitely can't risk the Council keeping anything you tell them from the bots they're meant to be taking care of. And make it snappy. Power reserves could go out any megacycle now."
Ratchet pressed the comm unit into Prime's servos, with a stern stare. There wasn't any arguing with him. And if the Council wasn't going to address its people, he would. Optimus sighed, and held the comm unit up to his mouth.
Zaofu: Outer limits
Prowl watched the two tiny organic while in hiding, remaining behind a holographic bush projection emanating from his chest. They looked maybe a third of his size, and were like nothing he'd ever seen. They seemed as interested in the Cybertronian landscape as he was in theirs. Prowl entertained the notion of revealing himself to them, before deciding it would be best to simply trail them and remain out of sight for now. He was certain his size and alien nature would cause distress if he didn't handle his introduction at the perfect time.
edited 1st Apr '15 9:01:15 PM by SR3NORMANDY
What if there’s no better word than just not saying anything?The Gathering
Leofric fumed in quiet indignation. What kind of petty god incites war between people that want nothing with the matter for his own amusement!? At least the other representatives seemed more cooperative, Optimus' words in particular inspired confidence in the living armor. He simply bid farewell and teleported back.
Amn, Throne Room
The Duke came to a commotion within the hall as his two appointed regents tried to discuss with the council. His arrival did calm things down a bit as he appeared. He asked his regents to come hither and the council to wait for them in the actual council room. Then he told them of what had happened, and the reason for their predicament. Deyval broke in laughter.
"I fail to see what's humorous about this" said Weybridge.
"Its bloody beautiful!" exclaimed Deyval gruffly "our people have officially become the playthings of the gods, the cruel bastards!"
"And you laugh about them in defiance, I wouldn't be surprised if you were smitten by a pillar of light, or if your spirit were to be blown away" Remarked Weybridge
"In any case we need to begin planning, its clear that this sick deity wants his conflict and if we don't provide he'll force it, so we need to be ready." Said Leofric
"I say we go ahead and go on a warpath" said Deyval "'tis what this God wants"
"Its what you want" said Weybridge
"It isn't wise to do so, not to mention disgraceful to do so without any provocation... we have more important matters" He turned to his aides "Fetch me a scroll, ink and quill. You, tell Ser Alrich to prepare 6 of his riders, and three more mounts" the slight figures ran off.
"setting off again eh, your Lordship?" snarked Deyval
"Indeed" said Leofric
Then the first returned Leo took the supplies, leaned over a table began drawing a rough sketch of the map of the Battleworld.
"I saw a glimpse of the world we are now residing in" he said pointing at their territory. "I need a comprehensive map. Tell the scouts to begin roaming the lands, and report back their findings"
"Might prove useful" said Weybridge "I've had them look over our lands, see what has changed"
"good, any other developments I need to be aware of?" asks Leofric
"We began the construction of a port, and dust dredgers on the coastline" spoke Deyval
"The mines and refineries are working normally too and the crops haven't been disturbed" said Weybridge
"well, not all is lost, thankfully" said Leofric
"My King" said an aide coming in "Ser Alrich said his riders would be ready."
"good, well done" he said
"why the riders?" Asked Deyval
"Emissaries, we need to contact the territories around us" said Leofric "I want them to bear my banner, and carry a barrel of Amber Ale."
"if we come bearing gifts they will see us as weak appeasers" said Deyval
"Its a matter of courtesy" said Leofric, firmly, then to one of his aides "make the preparations and wait on the stables for me, you're coming with me."
"Yes, my King" she said and walked off
"where to?" Asked Weybridge
"one will go to the north, Youkai Mountain, another to the east, to Twilight Town... I'll go to Beach City the representatives were not in the grand meet, which means they are angry or scared, we must reach them." he points to the featherhead swamp "and ask for pass, this region holds raw unclaimed resources, that is our priority"
On the fields
Leofric stood beside the mounted riders
◊ his own armored creature standing near him, his banner; a white tower on a black backdrop, hanging on a wooden pole, was affixed to his mount and the other riders too, an aide of his riding with every group.
"Your assignment is clear, you will escort my ambassadors to the lands of north and west, make sure they return safely"
"Yes Sire!" They respond, mostly itching to set off. Leofric steps atop his own mount, and so does his aides. They set off shortly after.
Twilight Town, Youkai Mountain
Soon knights clad in gold with blue capes mounting the simmilarly armored beasts, and one smaller figure made out of more wood and ceramics than metal would be nearing the foreign territories, Their banners flying in the wind.
Beach City
"How odd" said the aide as they can see Beach City.
"This is a piece of another world, its logical that it would be different" Mused Leofric
"I suppose so" said the aide as they rode, nearing the settlement...
The graceless warrior, wielder of the edgeless blade, prophet of the old religions, writer of fluent nonsense, saviour of soul and song.Axton could see that it appeared a number of other people were lining up to speak with Sonic. Not wanting to get in the way, and having said his bit, he desided to get moving.
"Just think about it, alright? Swing on by Sanctuary if you need something, ask for Tannis if I'm not in, she'll get you in touch with me. Later." With a wave, he vanished.
Axton reappeared in the same buliding. Tannis looked up from whatever tech thing she was doing.
"Oh, good. You're not dead."
"Please, it's gonna take a lot more then a few wackos to kill me. Place is in some serious shit right now, however." Axton quickly recapped what he'd learned.
"Fascinating." Tannis said when he finished. "It's long since been speculated in the scientific community that there are an infinite number of universes. Some with changes as minor as what you ate for breakfast this morning, and some where humans may have never even existed."
"Any idea how to get us back to Pandora? Not too keen on relying on the dude that brought us here for that."
"No. Tannis said. She looked about to launch into a technical explanation of why when Axton held up his hand to stop her.
"Ok, I don't have a day to sit here for the why. Just...try to figure something out, alright?"
"I will try. Goodness knows what you sycophants would do without me." She turned around to return to her work. "So, what kind of beings are we sharing this new world with?"
"Let's see, there were talking robots, flying witch looking things, a stereotypical dark lord dude, Dracula. Oh, and we're now neighbors with an island of talking animals and floating brains in jars. Bout the only normal looking people are to the west, place called Santa Destroy."
Axton leaned back in thought. "The rep from that place didn't seem all that friendly. Lots of cursing stuff, challenged Dracula to a fight. Still, kinda feel bad for him, now that I think about it. Kid couldn't have been over 20, and he gets thrown into this kinda situation, told he's in charge of a city? That ain't cool."
"Maybe I should swing by the place. Offer up some help if he's still there. If he's not, then the other people in the city may need some help too. What do you think, Tannis?"
Tannis turned in surprise. "I'm sorry, were you talking to me? I wasn't paying attention to a word of what you said after the first sentence." Axton sighed. "Oh, yes, Scooter came by, dropped this off. Something about the infrastructure of the city, I'm sure it's nothing important." Axton took the paper with an eyeroll.
"I'll read this on the way. Later Tannis."
"You may find leaving a tad hard at the moment. Most of the city population flocked to this building when the event happened. They want to know what's going on or something, I don't know. I hid when they showed up."
"Of course you did. Let me deal with them." Axton got up and walked up to the balcony overlooking the town square where the population had assembled.
"Alright guys, here's what's going down." Axton once again summed up what had happened. Once he finished, looked at the list in his hand.
"Ok, so scooter gave me this list here. Most of the internal systems in sanctuary are still running. Water filtration's up, power's on, local Echonet is online. Flight systems are down, as you may have noticed. He says it may take a while before those are fixed, no time listed for the when. We got enough food for a few days or so. We'll have to work on securing more soon.
"So, for now, make sure you all have guns on you at all times. We're reinstating the same system for repelling bandit raids we had up before the city went up in the air. Looks like whoever pulled this was kind enough to give us back the outer walls we left behind when we took off, so that'll help. Right now, I'm not expected any direct attacks, but you never know.
"Er, also, if you see anything weird walking around, try not to shoot at it unless you know it wants to kill you. Apparently more then humans were brought to this world. That's all I got. Keep your guns loaded people, we're all used to having to deal with people who want us dead." With that, Axton walked downstairs.
"Tannis, let me know if anyone comes by asking for me or if anything happens. I'm heading out to see if I can help that kid out." Tannis gave a waving hand to indicate she heard him, and he walked out, cutting through the slowly dispersing crowd to get to Scooters, grab a speeder, and begin driving east to Santa Destroy.
edited 1st Apr '15 11:36:58 PM by Meanken
With that, Ky warped out of the Meeting Room, hoping to find his people calm.
Illyria, Royal Court
Up top, on a balcony above, Leo Whitefang rubbed his temples. He, sadly enough, didn't have the answers to give that one guy. He mumbled to himself, sarcastically wondering if he should just give up and join in on the panicking. He almost did, much to his surprise.
Had the entire world gone upside down? Land doesn't just disappear, unless Illyria Castle itself was transported elsewhere in its entirety.
Something caught Leo's notice to the south-east. He turned to see. A lightning bolt struck, on this perfectly clear day? And it arced from the ground...into the air?
That answered Leo's question about the world turning upside down at least. Then came the humming... a generator? Then the voice. Whoever it was, it didn't sound like shouting at them would get a response. Leo tried it anyway.
"Who the hell are you? What the hell are you testing? You dare to-?!"
He was interrupted when the gust of wind came in. Some of the crowd seemed to scream, their panic getting worse.
"We're being attacked!" One Knight shouted. The others next to him drew their swords.
Leo stood his ground and transmitted an order to the Knight over his communicator.
"Stay your ground! Don't make any panicked moves, that's an order! Calm the crowd, make sure they don't riot...ah! Ky!"
The youthful High King had finally returned, brow furrowed at the situation before him. He had to keep a hand on the sword on his hip and his garments, lest he lose them in this wild wind.
"Leo! What's the situation?"
"If it were good, we wouldn't be having this ruckus! Maybe you ought to put in a few words yourself."
Ky did as Leo suggested, approaching the balcony.
Ky looked upon his people. His face was one of uncertainty, although no one could tell from this distance. The truth of their situation was...rather unpleasant. What should he hide? And what should he reveal?
"I come with grave news." Ky exerted his voice, hoping to beat the howling wind.
"I regret that we have been put into another situation only a week after the Cradle had fallen, but a mysterious party has transported the entirety of Illyria Castle as well as its capital town into another realm. This party seemingly takes the form of a single entity, one calling itself 'The Cure'. Their motivations and whereabouts remain unknown. As far as we know, this realm's atmosphere is conducive towards life, but we have been put into this strange land with many other unfamiliar nations."
"I understand that you might be confused. This sort of massive teleportation is not unlike the Cradle's, so we have reason to suspect similar techniques being put to use. For now, our aim should be to co-operate with our new-found neighbors. Having been cut off from all our past connections and resources, and from all contact with the rest of Illyria, we're going to need all the help we can get. At the same time, my promise to you is that we will do all we can to investigate into the matter, and find a way home!"
"Averting the disaster that might've befallen us a week ago was the work of my most trusted, but for today, I will need everyone to do their part. Please avoid traveling beyond the outskirts of the Capital town for now; I seek alliance with our neighbors, but until negotiations are complete we know not what is out there. Begin rationing your resources; our supplies of food, energy and water should be kept in check. Spread the word about what I have told you; spread the word to your loved ones, lest the fear of the unknown take us. Shelter yourselves and your loved ones from the wind, our Knights will shelter you, and guide you to the safety bunkers of the Castle until it passes."
"And most of all; remain vigilant. In these dark times, it is the light of hope that keeps us afloat. And please, put your trust not just in us, who will get you out of this crisis, but also in each other, your unity will fan the flames of hope and allow us a reprise of the victories we've achieved. We will seek alliance and good relations with our fellow nations, and apprehend 'The Cure', and we will bring you home, where I am aware, some of you have loved ones awaiting you."
"That is all."
Ky turned to leave, only hoping that his people would share his sentiments of hope. When the order came, the Knights began to direct the citizens of the capital town towards the safety bunkers deep within the castle. They didn't know yet whether this wind was something mild or the sign of an incoming attack. But Ky knew one thing; his people believed in him. And he wasn't going to let them down.
Within the Castle
The castle's windows remained shut, keeping out the still howling gusts of wind that battered the walls.
Knights walked the halls in rank and file, many carrying their own supplies and bringing them to storage rooms. Others held checklists, making sure everything was in place. The instructions of their Kings lay as clear objectives in their mind.
"Gather as much food, water and Zeal batteries as we can, as much as you can find in the Castle, and make checklists on what we have. We will split the Knights into as many groups as we can, and put each group in charge of a storage area, all groups and storage rooms will be labelled A through Z. Soon, we will begin rationing out these resources to the citizens who need it."
Elsewhere, in smaller groups, officials began packing some supplies of their own.
"I wish for small groups of our most trusted officials to act as envoys. Seek the Armor Outpost in the north, look for one named Shovel Knight and establish connections with his community. Another group will head to the east for the Human Village. Carry minimal weaponry. Tell the leaders of these communities that High King Ky Kiske seeks co-operation in these dark times. Remain at your designated locations, and transmit any messages back to us with your communicators."
And finally...
"I wish for our remaining Knights to patrol the towns and borders. Look out for any suspicious activity. Today's harsh winds seem to be the result of a mild experiment on the part of another of our neighbors, but we never know what could be awaiting us on the horizon. As soon as something suspicious happens, report back to Command, and await further orders."
Deeper in the castle, down in its lower levels, the normal folk and citizens took shelter. The Knights had guided them in here, attempting to keep things as calm and orderly as possible, as per the High King's instruction. Any citizen who had remained in their homes was informed of the situation and moved to these bunkers, meant to only be moved out when the wind had passed, and any signs of an attack had gone by.
Crowded as they were, they would provide as a haven.
Border Patrol
Two Knights braved the winds and patrolled the borders of the town. With them were many others, forming a strong line between what was left of Illyria and their new, mysterious surroundings.
"Big speech today, huh?"
"The High King's always been like this, even during...no, especially during the Crusades."
"I know, I know...it's just...kinda...nice y'know?"
"What?"
"The High King's an optimist, no one's denying that. A lot of people would call him naive, that he'd make us complacent. But I think he actually makes us more determined. It's...the good kind of optimism, y'know?"
"Huh? What's that?"
"C'mon, I know optimism's hard to come by these days but...alright, I'll explain. When I say 'good kind of optimism' I mean the kind that motivates us, and doesn't let us give up hope and-ah, ow! What'd the hell you hit me for?"
"Shh! Shut up. I wasn't talking about your optimism spiel. Look over there."
The Knight looked where his friend nodded. What seemed to be...Gears...were approaching them.
"U-uh..."
The nervous Knight's hand approached his hip.
"Don't. Draw. That. Sword."
His friend tapped his ear and contacted Command.
Inside the Castle
After being passed through a few lines of officers, the Knight's message was directed to Leo Whitefang.
"What? Gears approaching the town? They don't look dangerous?"
Leo held his chin, the sign of thoughtfulness.
"They're probably not Gears at all...just inhabitants of these other worlds we've been mixed up with, if what Ky told me is true. Alright, tell them to calm themselves. I want the Knights to hold their ground, and don't be afraid to communicate with them."
"Roger that."
"So uh..."
"We stay our ground. Apparently we can even talk to them."
"Oh....okay."
And the Knights stood awkwardly, awaiting the approach of these strange creatures.
Later on, in the Inner Sanctum
"Have you found anything out Doctor?"
The reptilian Gear known as Doctor Paradigm shook his beaked head.
"Hardly. I've checked the seismographs. There was no gradual increase in activity; this was a sharp, sudden rise in tremors, unlike any natural earthquake. With this in mind, your claim that this was a purposeful act of another being holds water. Sadly, I found no signs of Magic or Divine Steps taking place. This is clearly something outside of our realm of understanding, which is why I would appreciate the opportunity to study this phenomena in greater detail."
Ky nodded to the good Doctor. Dizzy awaited him to his right.
"And what of Sol?"
"I couldn't contact them, as you thought."
"I see."
As soon as Ky was mentally done being the High King of Illyria, he started to transition into a father. A father who worried for his son, who would no doubt be panicked over the whereabouts of him and Dizzy. Could he even return to see him again? Ky was beginning to get in touch with his human side, his vulnerable side. Worry and doubt set in.
A reassuring hand placed itself upon his shoulder. Ky looked up. Dizzy's red eyes showed uncharacteristic warmth for their unnatural color. Her smile reminded him to hold on to the very message he gave his people. Ky smiled and held Dizzy's hand in return. This was no time to falter.
"Right...then in that case, we must rely on ourselves. I will have to await further word from my envoys..."
edited 2nd Apr '15 8:03:48 AM by LatverianBadger
"Shake the dust." - Anis MojganiBIG MT/Illyria Border
"What? Who is this on the other end?! Can't you see that..." came the response over the loudspeakers mounted on the top of the facility. Whatever the voice said next was muffled by a particularly fierce gust of wind. When it died down, those standing near the edge of the crater could hear what sounded like a particularly vicious debate between the voice and what sounded like broken radio static.
"#@^^@#@."
"Well, 8, you're the acoustician around here, maybe you should try adjusting the frequency and increase the intercom modulation levels."
"^$%&#$@#@".
"8, what... what are you doing with that frequenosity modulator? You're not... oh. Oh. I'll just... uh... turn away for a minute."
Then, after a few more seconds...
""You know, you could have given me some warning, or something. Tell me before you just whip out your audio modulator channels and start doing that."
"@#%$@@#%@%?"
"8, you're disgusting sometimes. At least sterilize the damn thing before you just hand it to me."
Another few seconds passed before the windstorms started to pick up again. The voice piped in over the loudspeakers was louder now, easily able to carry over the increasingly ferocious gust.
"Attention, test city twenty-six. You have been selected to take part in Big Mountain's battery of atmospheric disturbance tests. This test will continue until we have either gathered enough data about the interaction of pressure systems on the Battleworld, or until we figure out how to deactivate this facility. This test is expected to take about... uh... eight years. If you're not interested in being part of this test, Big Mountain Research staff recommends leaving test city twenty-six immediately and, uh..." The voice paused and mumbled to itself, as if reading off a teleprompter,"...reporting to Big Mountain's reallocation program, so that you can... er... take part in one of our many exciting... uh... research and development initiatives. Thank you and have a pleasant day."
The loudspeaker channel snapped shut before abruptly flaring into life again.
"KEEP THAT COMIC BOOK AWAY FROM ME, 8, I KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU DO WITH IT, YOU-"
Click.
edited 2nd Apr '15 3:19:26 PM by Locoman
The Meeting - Deals
Sonic was happy to see that Axton was offering him aid, and gave him a thumbs-up as he left. He decided to address the others gathered around him in hushed tones.
"Okay, I know it's a bit much to ask, especially considering we don't have much time here, but my chunk's kind of understaffed here. Only four people made it over to this 'Battleworld' from my world, including me, and only one of them actually lived on the island before this. So I'll try to swing by you guys' respective chunks and help you out with stuff if you'll help me keep Angel Island safe for a little while. If there's anything anyone needs help with right now, I'll try to make those my first priorities once I get back."
Angel Island, Master Emerald Shrine - VS. Trauma Harness
As the laser whizzed past the red echidna's head, Knuckles realized that the thing that fired it off wouldn't be scared off by further threats. It was time to throw down.
"Oh, that is it!"
Knuckles raced toward the Trauma Harness with his spiked fists guarding in front, waiting to get in a few jabs at Knuckles' foe once he was in striking distance. As he ran to confront it, Tails and Amy also joined in, with Amy raising her hammer and following Knuckles' lead as Tails took to the air with his signature tails. However, Tails and Amy were approaching in different directions, in order to draw the Harness's fire away. While there were no golden rings nearby for them to pick up, they were carrying around 10 rings each. This would give them a slight degree of protection, but if the rings were scattered and some were collected by their "undead" opponent, it would do the same for it.
Illyria Castle/Angel Island border
As the battle between the anthropomorphic animals and the Trauma Harness raged, another inter-world meeting was about to occur. Two Chao
◊ had emerged from the tropical forest of Angel Island to explore their strange new surroundings. They approached the beautiful architecture of Illyria Castle, with no understanding of what it was.
Sanctuary/Angel Island border
As these events unfolded, Rouge continued her flight away from Angel Island. While she was aware that it was now grounded, she had no knowledge of its transportation to Battleworld. She soon found that it was now settled next to what appeared to be a town unlike any she was familiar with
. She decided to land just outside of it, bringing the Master Emerald with her.
MELIOR
"I have been sent as an envoy!" Sanae called down to the men below her. She paused mid-flight, waiting for permission to proceed.
It never hurt to be polite.
Human Village
"Oh, it's the menreiki who made that new Noh," Kanako murmured, before addressing the youkai properly. "Weren't you the one who performed in-front of the Hakurei shrine for several weeks straight? I am Yasaka Kanako, god of the Moriya shrine. Incidentally, I thought you were getting the hang of expressing yourself without your masks. I recall you smiling after a performance."
Conception is sin Birth is pain Life is toil Death is inevitableThe Walls of Melior
"You're the envoy from the south-east?" The officer called out. "Welcome to Melior, miss. You're expected at the Royal Palace. Uh, please do not enter the palace grounds from the air, but use the gate on the ground."
Join us in our quest to play all RPG video games! Moving on to disc 2 of Grandia!The small crew of the Gilgamesh cruiser stepped into the hangar section, a Scopedog in progress sat there, Chirico's new custom, called "Burglary Dog". A drop folding gun, a rocket pod, mounted side rockets, a gatling gun, and All Terrain skates for the glide wheels.
Gotho looked over the other Scopedogs, 19 left, "So, we need to outfit 2 more?" he asked. Ru Shako nodded, "Better to be prepared for assault," the Quientman noted, Gotho couldn't argue with that and took another puff of his pipe.
"As for Fyana, she and I will be setting out to explore the two other neighboring locations of this planet," Chirico stated, "I will be headed to Fuyuki City."
"And I to San Fransokyo," Fyana stated, She looked over the Scopedogs available, "Though perhaps we could make it look less threatening somehow, the citizens of San Fransokyo may not be so receptive to a obvious war machine."
Vanilla was already hefting cans of paint and some ammo mags when he heard that, "I don't know how exactly we're going to armor you up and make you look less threatening at the same time..."
Cocona smiled and practically leaped at the idea, "Maybe bright colours to make you stand out! Make it so that you can't be a effective weapon if they can see where you are! Oh and maybe keep all weapons in a deactivated state and holstered!"
Sanctuary
Currently guarding the gate to Sanctuary was two members of the Crimson Raiders, standing in patchwork armor that had multiple pieces missing from it and holding assault rifles. As they saw the strange being approach carrying an extremely over sized crystal, one of them looked to the other.
"What do we do?"
"The vault hunter's orders were clear. Don't shoot unless there is obvious hostile intent. Unless they're planing to bash us over the head with that thing, I think we're good. Still, may be a good idea to find out why they're here." He would walk over to Rouge.
"Er....welcome to Sanctuary. Can we help you?" He asked, not even sure if Rouge was capable of responding or not.
edited 2nd Apr '15 2:49:13 PM by Meanken
Sanctuary - The Gate
Rouge had found herself outside the gate of Sanctuary, only to be confronted by two guards. While she was not familiar with any place called "Sanctuary" (beyond the general term, anyway), nor did she recognize the Crimson Raiders, she let it go for the time being. This mystery could at least wait until she got into contact with either her G.U.N. handlers or with the President.
Deciding that the best way to avoid getting shot (or worse, having her emerald confiscated) was to err on the side of professionalism (with some hints of seduction) rather than combat, she set down the Master Emerald, reached between her . . . tracts of land and plucked out an ID badge with a photo of herself and the sigil of the Guardian Units of Nations
◊.
"My name's Rouge the Bat, and I'm an agent of G.U.N. I'm requesting passage inside your city, sir. As you can plainly see, I'm carrying some rather valuable cargo, so if you don't mind, I'd like to make this quick."
"Cynic, n. — A blackguard whose faulty vision sees things as they are, not as they ought to be." - The Devil's DictionaryAnthropomorphic Animals vs. Spooky Scary Skeleton Suit
The suit twisted and contorted as its threat identification system struggled to isolate the three fast-moving targets rapidly converging on its position. It swung its gun to face Amy, one gloved finger wrapped around the trigger. Before it could fire, it was distracted by Tails. It swung its entire torso around to try and get a lock on this new blip... and as it tried to keep up with the two-tailed fox, it crunched the dried bones inside its suit into a horrifying angle. It fired once, then twice at this new target before sighting Knuckles racing down its center of vision.
Once again, the suit twisted around like a demented Lazy Susan, wrenching its skull free from its spine and leaving it free to rattle around in the suit's clear Perspex helmet. This didn't seem to impede the harness any; it blasted more laser shots at the oncoming monotreme.
The two men glanced at one another, clearly having no idea what she was talking about.
"I'm afraid we don't know what your gun thing is, and I've never seen this insignia in my life."
The other man spoke up. "Exactly how up to date are you on recent events?" He asked, figuring based on the way she was acting that she may be out of the loop. "Are you at least aware that you've been moved to a....er, how do I describe it...."
"Alternate reality?"
"Something like that. You know that your city or wherever you came from got moved and slapped together with a bunch of other random places from other worlds and such?"
The Meeting
As he listened to the meeting conclude, Roxas only got angrier. Who did this guy think he was?! Dropping him in the middle of this place designed to be a warzone for his entertainment... well, Roxas would have none of it. He'd find a way out of this.When given the chance to leave, Roxas took it immediately.
Twilight Town
Roxas reappeared. Axel and Xion ran over to him. Xion hugged him lightly. "Roxas!"Roxas sighed. "They're all crazy. We've been dropped into a new world made up of smaller ones. We are surrounded by a bunch of people, not all human, who want to kill each other." He turns to Axel. "You told the people here about me being their leader, right?"
"Uh... yeah. Rox..."
Roxas got up and waved to the shocked crowd. "Hello. I'm Roxas. As your leader, I command you to build a new wall around the perimeter of Twilight Town."
Axel sighs. "Roxas the Tyrant... who'd have thought..."
edited 2nd Apr '15 4:25:21 PM by TooManyIdeas
Courtyard of the Royal Palace of Crimea
◊
Sanae was met by two guards, wearing the red livery of the Crimean Royal Knight. One carried a spear, while the other had a sword in an ornate sheath hanging on his thigh, apparently some kind of officer. The officer bowed deeply in greeting to Sanae.
"Welcome to Crimea, lady envoy. If you will please come with us, Lady Lucia will receive you right away. How would you prefer to be introduced?"
edited 3rd Apr '15 9:16:47 AM by Lemurian
Join us in our quest to play all RPG video games! Moving on to disc 2 of Grandia!Sanctuary, Gate - Revelation
"What? No . . . That's impossible . . ."
Rouge was shocked to hear that Angel Island had been taken to another world, and her along with it. She tried her hardest to believe that what this guard had told her was false, or a lie, but it made sense. This explained why she didn't recognize Sanctuary beforehand, and why the island had quaked even before she had left with the Master Emerald.
Her mind raced. Her jewel collection could fall prey to rival thieves if she was not there to protect it. She might be called on to perform a vital service to the United Federation, but with her, one of G.U.N.'s top agents, AWOL, there may well be massive loss of life in the future. With Sonic and his friends here, there would be nothing to stop Doctor Eggman's ambitions of global conquest. She might never return home or see her closest friends, Shadow and Omega, ever again. With her mind now having to deal with all of this, Rouge simply collapsed, with the Master Emerald remaining behind her.
Angel Island, Master Emerald Shrine - Ya Ha Haa!
As the trio prepared to strike against the confused Trauma Harness, Tails noticed something horrible as it dodged its first shot. When it turned to open fire on him, the bones trapped within were twisted in ways they were never meant to go. Terrified by what he had just seen, his heart stopped as he was struck directly by the second shot, knocking him out of the sky, and scattering his rings all over.
When it turned to aim at Knuckles, the spine within the suit broke, knocking its occupant's skull free. Amy had closed her eyes as she arched her Piko Piko Hammer back, preparing to crush her (then believed to be robotic) opponent in one swing, which had conveniently prevented her from noticing the true nature of the monstrosity she and her friends were fighting. As Knuckles was about to go in for a massive punch, Knuckles stopped dead in his tracks upon seeing this horrific sight. After a brief "What on earth?", and as Amy began to bring the hammer down, he understood what it was that Tails saw.
Whatever this thing was, it was once alive.
edited 2nd Apr '15 4:49:12 PM by TrashJack
"Cynic, n. — A blackguard whose faulty vision sees things as they are, not as they ought to be." - The Devil's DictionaryOne of the guards shrugged. "Yesterday I'd have said it was impossible for me to be holding a conversation with a bat, but here we are."
"I hear ya." Said the other guard to the first. "Well, if you still wanna come into the city, we'll let you in long as you promise not to cause any trouble. Or, you can head back to your own place.
"Whatever ya do, however, I wouldn't advise lugging that giant crystal around too long. You're just asking for someone to jump ya. You should be ok in the city with it, but god knows what the hell else is running around right now outside here."
edited 2nd Apr '15 5:10:07 PM by Meanken
Big MT/Angel Island border
The Trauma Harness was knocked off of its feet as Amy's massive hammer came down hard on its helmet, crunching the withered skull into so many bits of blackened calcium. Its arms wheeled cartoonishly while it tried to keep its balance, as if it was in some horrible slapstick parody.
The gun fell out of its arms, and was accompanied by bits of ribs and vertebrae sent flying by the hammer blow. They jabbed their way through the faded exterior as the abomination went down.
For a few seconds, the fabric went limp, knocked flat on its metaphorical backside. Then the suit itself started trying to get back up, flailing on the ground like a dying fish as it tried to reach for its gun.
edited 2nd Apr '15 6:11:01 PM by Locoman
Angel Island, Master Emerald Shrine - The Horror . . . The Horror . . .
Knuckles saw Amy crush the Trauma Harness's bones and helmet in one blow, and, remembering that Tails had been shot by that thing, raced over to the rings he had dropped to collect as many as he could. He managed to obtain seven before the remaining three had vanished.
As the young fox roused himself back up after being knocked to the ground, Knuckles willed ten of the rings he was carrying into materializing (as was often done to use them as currency), and gave them to Tails for protection, while leaving himself with seven. As he did so, the Trauma Harness, seemingly "killed", began to twitch and flail, and Amy, her eyes now open, began repeatedly smashing it with her hammer until she was certain that it wouldn't get up again.
The encounter with the abomination shook Knuckles down to his very core, as it had run smack dab into his deep-seated fear of the undead. While he had defeated the King Boom Boo, and even teased Tails about his own fear of ghosts once before, he had never fully gotten past it. He asked the only thing that made sense to him. "Was that a . . . a ghost?!"
Tails, having more-or-less composed himself, got back up on his feet, and responded. Having seen how inhumanly the Trauma Harness had moved, and how it kept trying to get back up even with its occupant smashed to pieces, he disagreed with Knuckles' guess. "Knuckles . . . I- I think that was the suit."
Amy, listening in, wasn't sure whether this made the situation more or less horrifying than it already was. The three decided to wait until Sonic got back from the meeting before they would dare try to figure out where the suit had originally come from.
Sanctuary, the Gate - Recovery
Rouge managed to get back on her feet, and took hold of the Master Emerald once more. After listening to the guards, she decided to speak up, now less sure of herself than she ever remembered being in her life. She was trained to resist torture and to maintain composure in a combat situation, and has dealt with the possibility of global conquest in the past. But the idea that she was on an alien, patchwork world and might never see her home and friends again (and if she did, her home may well be rendered unrecognizable and her friends harmed or killed) was a very new, and very stressful situation, which she had no knowledge of how to deal with.
"My home . . . isn't here. I came to Angel Island to take back something that belongs to me," Rouge said, indicating the Master Emerald. True, it was originally Knuckles', but as far as she was concerned, it was truly hers, especially now that it was her last remaining link to her home world, and the guards didn't need to know any further details. "But when I was trying to fly home, I ended up here. If it's alright with you, I'd like to stay in this city for now."
Rouge paused, before speaking again.
"By the way, if you see a red echidna coming this way, could you let me know? He's the treasure hunter who took this Emerald from me in the first place."
"Cynic, n. — A blackguard whose faulty vision sees things as they are, not as they ought to be." - The Devil's DictionaryOne of the guards turned to whisper to the other. "What's an Echidna?" he received a shrug in response from the other guard before he turned back to Rouge.
"Er, well, we have to stand guard here, but we'll try to let you know if we see anything fitting that description coming our way." He said, figuring he'd just keep an eye out for anything red looking. "Head on in." He said, walking over to the gate and opening it up for her.
"With the Village gone, we're going to have to start producing our own supplies. Talk the residents into starting farms or..." Shovel Knight paused "...Better yet, since we're next to the Great Sea, see if we can't get some boats made and start up some fishing too. Maybe if we can grow and catch enough we'll have something to trade with our neighbors or allies."
"We also need a real map of this new Battleworld. They had some kind of magical projection at the meeting but I wasn't able to copy it... If we can borrow the merchant's airship that would give us a good view of our land and the surroundings."
"And I have to meet with a representative of Illrya Castle once they get here, and visit Human Village too... There's just too many places to be at once, I don't know where to start!"
Shield Knight put a hand on the new leader's shoulder. "You can start by not doing everything by yourself. This isn't just another adventure you know."
You could tell Black Knight was smirking behind his helmet as he spoke up "Tell you what, Horned Hero. Since you're so swamped I'll grab some adventurers and that airship and we'll get your map, you can owe me later."
Shovel Knight turned to his menacing-looking doppelganger. "You won't terrorize anyone too much, right?" Black Knight's deep voice chuckled in reply. "Terrorize? You wound me"
Shield Knight smiled. "I'll round up the rest of the people here and explain the situation and our plans for now."
"Your face is probably the most trustworthy here, Shield Knight." Shovel Knight tapped his face obscuring helmet for emphasis of the minor jest. "You're right, just be ready to accept diplomats if they arrive and watch for any funny business from the north or other travellers. I'll go to Human Village myself then, hopefully I'll return with good news"
With Black Knight and Shovel Knight getting to work on their parts of the plan, Shovel knight makes his way toward the Human Village while trying to give his best impression of peaceful intent. Although this was uncharted territory during strange times, and his trusty shovel and adventuring gear were in easy reach.
edited 2nd Apr '15 6:56:01 PM by BlitzTrain
While travelling towards the Human Village, Shovel Knight might notice something hovering around, that something being a detached head with short red hair and a large purple bow on it. The head certainly seemed to notice him though, as it soon faced him with a surprised expression.
In the meantime, Miko and Akyuu were listening to the young man, a satisfied smile making itself apparent in Miko's face.
"Precisely, young man. I already befriended the leaders of the two lands to the west of the village. Of course, the village is surrounded by plenty more, so we shall make sure to know which lands we can trust and prepare ourselves accordingly." said Miko.
"However, our village is fairly small and we have no idea of how powerful our opponents may be. We cannot leave the village unprotected, so we need to also keep a strong defense, meaning we should try to keep some of our stronger fighters here." Akyuu added.
"I will visit the lands in the west myself." Miko stated, then turning to the crowd and spotting a familiar witch outfit "Marisa."
The witch then started flying on her broom in order to leave herself in sight of everyone "'Sup?" she casually asked
"You shall visit the land in the south. Your personality is one that is fairly easy to get along with, so you can probably work well as an envoy..." Miko then narrouws her eyes a bit at Marisa "... as long as you can make an effort to be polite."
Marisa shrugged "All right ze, whatever you say! South, right? I'll go there right away."
And with that, Marisa rushed away like a torpedo in the air, heading towards the south. Miko couldn't help but wonder if that really was the best choice, but the deed was done and now she could only hope Marisa would show some sort of responsability to their cause.
In the crowd, Reisen was watching from further away in the crowd, listening intently to everything going on and as such, she was startled as she felt someone place a hand on her shoulder. It was Sekibanki and as soon as the rabbit turned to face her, she pointed with her thumb away from the crowd, inviting the rabbit for a private conversation. Without saying a word, Reisen nodded and followed her to a more isolated area of the village.
"My head replicas have found someone coming towards the village. It's just one person and interrupting this meeting might not be the best idea..." Sekibanki calmly explained.
"So you want me to intercept this outsider. Right, I can do that." Reisen nodded "Just point me towards where that person is."
"They're coming from the far northwest of the village."
"Got it."
Reisen then flew away from the village as fast as she possibly could. Something that did not go unnoticed by Akyuu, however, right now she had to focus on the villagers.
"Every single one of you must provide help to sustain the village. If you have anything to report, make sure to report it to me in my house, anything of interest must be reported so we can remain organized. Those who are going in expeditions to another lands, please organize yourselves and report to the Hieda household before making your leave. Understood?"
"Yes, Miss Hieda!" said the crowd in unison.
"Very well, villagers and youkai, let's start working!" said Miko, with a smile.
With that, the crowd began dispersing as some went to do their own business while others were grouping themselves together so they could arrange their adventure groups.
"A god?!" said Kokoro as she began wearing a raiden mask
◊, her tone was of surprise, however her expression was still unchanged.
Oddly, that deity seemed to know her, probably having attended one of her Noh events without her noticing, which helped her get past the initial shock and making her remove the mask.
"Yes, that is indeed me. I have been developing my emotions better, however..." she then began wearing a monkey mask "... It's still difficult to fully express myself..."
Kokoro then shook her head, removing the mask.
"For what purpose are you here though?"

Castlevania
Right before the meeting with the forces, Dracula frowned as two of the four Flea Men sent returned... One was blocked by a brick wall which the inhabitants hastily built and the other was in a much more serious condition. It was just as he feared... A powerful Dark Lord was one of this neighbors. Only one could do such damage. As such, when the meeting in the colosseum commenced, Dracula explained the situation to his forces about their captivity on this plane and ordered them to station the majority of forces on the borders touching Iacon and Bald Mountain. If Bricksburg were to attack, then the brick wall they had made would come down first. There was a fighting force stationed on the border, but not as large of one as the ones on Iacon or Bald Mountain. As for Mann Co., there had been no word back from the Flea Man there as of yet, nor from the Flea Man sent to Iacon.
"But what of Belmont?" Death had asked Dracula after the meeting.
"We do not need to worry about them," Dracula answered Death. "If Bald Mountain is led by a fellow Dark Lord, then they will not touch Belmont as his attacks will hurt them same as me."
"And if they are seeking a way in through the front, then Bricksburg's wall will prevent that from happening," Dracula concluded to Death. Even though, he was in another world, he did feel himself secure from attack by Belmont.
Iacon, Northwest border
Trevor Belmont and his allies seemed rather stunned at the mere look of Iacon as they passed through its borders.
"There is something wrong here," Alucard noted to the other three nearby which led to Grant giving him a look as if that was obvious. "We should still be in the mountains."
"In any case, we should be extra cautious," Trevor declared to the others. "We know not what happened to change the land into this, and we still have Dracula to defeat."
The others agreed, though soon enough, they ended up stopped in their quest to return to Castlevania by the brick wall that Bricksburg put up, though this was the brick wall on Bricksburg's border with Iacon.
"Now what?" Grant asked the others for their plan to get into Castlevania given the current obstacle of the Great Wall of Bricksburg blocking its path. It seemed like the foursome were perplexed at how to surmount this.
Meanwhile, the Flea Man sent to Iacon had been spying on Trevor's group for the time being, since Belmont is always more of a concern than anything else to Dracula.
edited 1st Apr '15 2:32:08 PM by GameGuruGG
Wizard Needs Food Badly