Szklana Góra (Bardock)
“Bastards!”
Bardock jolts awake, firing a ki blast straight into the air before getting his bearings and looking around.
“…A vision again. Those…creeps from that other world…?”
The Saiyan gets to his feet, adjusting his scouter.
“If they wanna start something, better to go find ‘em myself before they can hurt anyone. But where…?”
He tightens his headband, looking down the street.
“…That last part. Heard the locals talking about a ‘disappearing castle’ in the area. That stuck-up ‘Milly’ girl from the sky mentioned it, too. As good a place as any to start.”
Bardock cracks his knuckles.
“Feels like a good day to punch a demon jester in the face.”
This post is sponsored by Amalgam Comics.Hinata: Swampy Korok
"A-Ah!" Hinata jumped as she heard a loud ki blast from behind her: she had barely made it to the entrance of the tent before nerves had caught up with her, and she'd lingered outside indecisively. But hearing this noise, she ran all the way back to where Bardock was, to the point where she was practically breathless by the time she made it to him.
"B-Bardock-san..." she panted, bent over with her hands on her knees as she recovered. "I-Is everything okay...? Y-You look like you... want to fight something..."
That doesn't really clear things up, she thought to herself. He almost always looks like he wants to punch someone...
"I-If you're going somewhere, I..." she paused, straightening her posture before she finished her sentence. "I-I'll come with you...! Even if it's dangerous... b-but you still looked... spooked...? Did I miss something...?"
She muttered this last part to herself, looking back over her shoulders both ways to see if there were any obvious bad actors around.
Mob: Sawwar Palace Exterior
"Oh. Is there more trouble?" Mob asked Spyro, almost immediately stopping at his warning. "This place seems pretty dangerous. We can't walk that far without something going wrong, somehow..."
He tilted his head slightly as Spyro walked up to the strange scary lady, and seemed to recognise her as a dragon. Mob couldn't really sense much different, and wondered if they counted as spirits or not. Maybe they were creatures first and magical second. Or he just hadn't attuned his psychic powers to dragons yet.
"Um... it's nice to meet you," he tried to say in a polite way, once Alexstrasza had made her introduction. She didn't seem altogether unpleasant, so far. "Ilulu's our friend. If you're here to take care of her, that's really useful. She can be a little hard to take care of. She's really- um..."
His brain stalled for a moment, and he shook his head slightly to get it back into gear again.
"...n-nevermind. She's Ilulu. I did get a sense earlier, but it was strange. It felt like she was underground, somehow. I don't think Ilulu's a mole, though. Unless something happened... in the two minutes we weren't looking at her..."
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"I can't really figure out where she is exactly, though. Maybe there's some passages someplace. Or caves under the city. I'm not sure..."
Though he still had his characteristic unfocused expression on his face, there was that slight red glint in his eyes as he thought deeply to himself. He was clearly troubled, perhaps even a little frustrated, but was dissociating heavily in an effort to control his feelings.
Edited by Enirboreh on Aug 17th 2024 at 12:05:12 PM
borkSawwar Palace's Halls (NiGHTS)
Surprise befell the jester's face as they saw the pink hedgehog. NiGHTS' cowls/horns even briefly spiked upwards while they showed surprise in their face, before loosening back down.
Then, NiGHTS pondered on Amy's offer for a moment.
She could not deny it - part of her found the idea of alone time enticing... but part of her was also concerned for the dragon's safety. Even if it currently was mostly in the sense of a kindred spirit.
The answer came out terse, snarky even. But with an undeniable heart right beneath it. "Sounds better - AND more fun - than dealing with kingly problems. Where's everyone else?"
Szklana Góra's Streets > Baba's Tent (Meta Knight)
The little knight raised an eyebrow - it was extremely suspicious for him how this limbless being was familiar with the crown, but not with nightmares. Either they were lucky enough to never have a single one and not be informed of them until now... or they were younger than they seemed and only knew about these Teensies. Anyhow, he nodded affirmatively when C.C. described the concept to Rayman.
On cue as the green-haired woman motioned to step forward, Meta Knight did during his turn.
"I shall keep it simple. I am Meta Knight, from Dream Land - and I must find the Star Rod, least restless sleep and nightmares take over the land I defend. I must have an idea on the odds of where to find it... or who stole it."
Come with me, and we will fly, to a Castle in the Sky...Nomi-Nomi, Szklana Góra
Before Nomi could say anything else to the guy outside the tent, they heard a large blast, which caused to yelp in surprise and look around to see what caused it. It was then that they saw a girl and… was that a Saiyan? They’d read about them back at the village, and their mother told Nomi stories about the Saiyans. They sounded like scary people, people you shouldn’t mess with, and there was one right over there. He couldn’t be that bad, right? They walked over, and nervously asked “Uh… h-hi? Um… you guys just heard that blast, right? Do you know what caused it?” They gasped and perked up a little. “Maybe I could help y’all find out!”
It builds character.Szklana Góra, Stein's Study
Tights glares daggers at Okuu, her own face reddening as she copes with the fact that she ruined most of a solid clue.
"...We are looking for a 'K,' and the name 'Klungo' fits...can't blame him for quitting a bad job."
"I wouldn't work for that witch if you paid me in mountains of gold."
Tights leans over Banjo's shoulder, scanning the letter.
"...Secret lab? Okay, so he has a lab somewhere near here...but a 'secret lab' isn't exactly gonna be easy to find. Not like he'll have a sign out front..."
"Could ask around. You'd be surprised what kinda word spreads around a small town like this. People talk, someone might know where 'K,' uh...Klungo sets up shop. He has to be getting supplies from somewhere, he probably has someone in town he buys food from. Great lead though, Banjo - we've got a pretty good start."
Exiting Sawwar Palace (Guardian Genie)
The guardian genie looks Alex up and down.
"More dragons? The plot thickens, seems I need to touch up my charm a bit...no matter."
Her ear twitches a bit upon hearing Mob.
"If she's underground, then the city catacombs sounds like a good place to start, then. All kinds of unsavory creatures would love to make their home down there, I'm certain a dragon would be no exception."
She glances around a bit, waving her hand dismissively.
"...Present company excluded, of course. While your friends keep Lord Kiel content with whatever mind-numbing busywork he's no doubt requesting of them, we can have your friend back in no time. Full speed ahead, then?"
This post is sponsored by Amalgam Comics.Szklana Góra, Stein's Study
"Klungo's a lot of things. Subtle isn't one of them." Kazooie piped up, not having much faith in the green guy to make a secret lab, well, secret.
"I'm not even sure what he eats...though he has to be a better cook than Grunty." Banjo mused aloud, feeling a twinge of amusement as he felt his backpack shake in protest at this statement. "So, we just need to ask around, find out if anybody's seen him or seen anything strange nearby?"
Sawwar Palace (Inside) -> Sawwar Palace (Outside)
"Just about anything sounds better than that. And they're just outside." Amy answered NiGHTS, and with a grateful smile towards the jester, she briefly took their hand and shook it. "Thank you."
And just like that, she was darting for the doors, zipping outside and...having to come to an abrupt halt as she saw her search party plus one.
"I turn my back for a few minutes and you guys make a new friend. That's honestly impressive." The pink hedgehog said, taking the opportunity to observe Alexstrasza for herself. "I'm guessing they already got you up to speed on who we're looking for and why. So here's what I'm thinking: we find an entry point down below, pick a spot where we'll regroup after the search, and split up into teams to cover more ground. Any objections, any suggestions as to who goes with who?"
Proud member of the AGOG community.Spyro & Sparx-Near Sawwar Palace
"Wait, Alexstrasza? The Dragonflight? Really?" Spyro asked incredulously, his brows raising so much that they were at rish of leaving his forehead entirely. Alright, so Spyro may not have been a very attentive student when the dragon elders were giving him his lessons , but he had at least paid enough attention to know who the Dragonflights were. They were legends, basically a step under Gods in the grand Dragon pantheon of importance.
...and Lucoa had sent one to help them. First Dresden, now a Dragonflight. Geez, Lucoa. Spyro really felt for Shouta in this moment-If Spyro was getting this level of smothering from a distance, he couldn't imagine what it was like traveling with Lucoa 24/7. Poor kid.
"Yeah, I'm Spyro alright. And this is my pal Sparx," He said, nodding towards the dragonfly in question, who gave Alextrasza a bob in greeting. "As much an honor as this is, I really need to tell Lucoa that I don't need a babysitter...though, we could actually use your help" Spyro admits, before Mob speaks up on what's happening, though he doesn't explaining everything. Then Amy rejoins them a second later.
"We were just getting around to explaining things, actually." Spyro says to Amy, before turning back to Alexstrasza. "C'mon, we'll walk and talk as we head towards the Catacombs. If you know of a way down there, lead on, Genie-who-hasnt-yet-given-us-her-name!" he says to their Genie companion as he starts walking out of the palace grounds. "I'm Spyro, by the way. This is Sparx, Amy, Mob, and you heard Alexstrasza's introduction. Proooooobably should have introduced ourselves earlier."
"Anyways," Spyro cuts off, turning back to Alexstrasza. "You've probably picked up on this by now, but Illulu's bolted." Spyro punctuated this statement with a deep sigh, the slumping of his shoulders, and looking wearily into the sky above. "We were able to get through to her and help her see the error of her ways and everything, but a less than pleasant confrontation with the King's Advisor caused all of her guilt to come bubbling up all at once, and she portaled away, saying she didn't deserve our help."
But here Spyro's shoulders tightens up, and a raises a clenched fist as a fiery look enters his eyes. "But we're not giving up on Ilullu. She may have a sordid past, sure, but she deserves to be saved too."
With all that explained, Spyro considered Amy's plan of action.
""If we're splitting up down there, a dragon should go with each party," he answered Amy. "Alextrasza and I's draconic senses will make tracking down Ilulu a cinch," Spyro says, snapping his fingers, before his face scrunches up as a thought occurs to him. "Course, Ilulu will be able to sense us coming with her draconic senses too, so."
Edited by Dezmo on Aug 26th 2024 at 2:54:52 AM
Sawwar Palace Exterior
The genie's unsavory comment about dragons and catacombs did earn a stern look from the Dragonqueen. But the good news is that the group had a good idea of where Ilulu was.
"I see... It is regrettable what happened in this palace. I speak from experience, I know many dragons have done wrongs on mortal kinds, and so is the opposite. Yet I trust Lucoa and you that this dragon wanted to change for the best. We will help her." Alexstrasza said before nodding, approving Spyro and Amy's plan.
"You are correct. She may try to escape should she smell one of us. And there is no telling if there are things in these catacombs that could pose a danger to her."
AND I'VE STILL BLOCKED OFF MY BALL!! FUCK!!Stein's Study (Master Chief and Cortana)
Cortana and Chief would listen to the Banjo trio figuring out that Klungo was the most likely lead to pursue before Cortana hears the mention of a secret lab. "That's a good place as any to start. The question is, where would he—?"
Both Chief and Cortana would hear a large boom in the distance, and both Chief and Cortana exchange glances. "Was that—?"
"A large expulsion of ki energy. Yeah, I sensed it, too. Do you want to investigate?"
Chief would look at the others, his body language indicating that it was awkward of him to do this. "Sorry, ma'am. We need to check it out."
The Spartan would then venture out, tracking the location of the ki blast as he does so.
Palace Side Chamber (Jason, Eve and Fred)
"Sir Frudnick and I have nothing to add, Lord Kiel. We'll gladly help you," is Eve's simple answer while Jason and Fred exchange glances, with a silent shrug from the frog.
"We all fail. We all make mistakes. That is what makes us human."Sawwar, Side Chamber
What's her problem? Stocking quirked an eyebrow as NiGHTS fled, but shrugged it off. Compared to Shortstack's whole thing, needing a bit of space was nothing to worry about.
"If the Prince was intending to do anything uncouth to his fiancé, I doubt he'd have done something that's both incredibly obvious and points the finger at him." Stocking mused, "So he's probably innocent. I- ah, we'll get your royal family back together, and I'm guessing once we find the missing castle we'll find who's really responsible."
She turns to follow the wizard out, pausing only to roll her eyes at the jester's attempt at cleverness. "Everyone knows a king doesn't rule alone. That's why he has advisors, stupid. Honestly, if one of them was pushing to have the prince exiled, that's your most likely culprit for the whole thing. It's always the treacherous advisor."
Briefly, she considers that Kiel himself probably qualifies as an advisor to the king, but if he is, he doesn't seem particularly treacherous, so it's probably not him. Of course, this could all be an extremely convoluted double bluff, but Stocking is pretty good at reading people and is confident his feelings on this matter are genuine.
"Let's get going, already. Should probably round up the others before we set off."
What is so amusing about this? Why do you take lives? How can you forget?Szklana Góra (Bardock)
Bardock grasps the back of his neck, looking down at Hinata with more than a bit of surprise.
{Damn, I was hoping not to include the kid, this doesn't feel safe...}
"...Had a vision."
The Saiyan's attention is quickly grabbed by Nomi approaching.
"...Blast was me, kid, nothin' to worry about. Had a vision, they happen, about some kinda...vanishing castle..."
As Chief follows the direction of the blast, he too will likely come across Bardock, who turns to address the Spartan.
"Those creeps from that other world - I think they're comin' back. Or they're up to something, or...I don't know. Had a vision, I was fighting two of 'em. The dragon and the clown. I think it was in that disappearing castle that Milly girl was talking about - the one in the story around here? I figure we find that castle, we can head these guys off before they can pull anything. I try to be proactive whenever I get a vision now...playing it safe."
He seems almost a little anxious about this, like not heeding this vision could have severe consequences.
Stein's Study
"...I'm sure he's got that covered."
"Probably that Saiyan guy - General Buckethead can handle it."
"...Ignoring Marno's nickname for Chief, he's got a point. We should focus on finding this Klungo person, maybe he knows what's going on with Stein. I've actually done something like this before - we just ask around town, since if anyone has any useful information and piece it together. Nobody's going to have all the facts we need, but maybe we can get enough information if we ask a bunch of people."
Sagi certainly sounds like he's done this before.
"Tracked down a terrorist one time, this is nothing compared to that. One immediate upside - no bombs this time."
Sawwar Palace Exterior
"The pink girl's plan is sound - more groups means more ground covered. We're a fairly modern city here in Sawwar, there are drainage grates throughout the city to avoid flooding. They also shouldn't be too difficult to remove and drop down through, should someone need to get underground."
...Sewers. Wonderful.
The guardian genie starts to lead the group down the street, speaking over her shoulder.
"Hm? My name? Ah yes, my name is Shantae. I'm a guardian genie by trade, as I said. As for each group having a...you-know-what, mind the d-word, also a serviceable plan."
This post is sponsored by Amalgam Comics.Nomi-Nomi, Szklana Góra
Nomi tilted their head. Visions? Sol had visions. In fact, Sol was the village seer, something that made Nomi a little jealous. “Uh… I haven’t seen any vanishin’ castles ‘round here, but I do think that I can help you find it!” They smiled and began to speak at a mile a minute. “M’name’s Nomination, but you can call me Nomi-Nomi! Or just Nomi. I’m really good at drawing and makin’ stuff, and I’m super good at archery! And I can track stuff! I also like readin’ The Epic of The Dragoness, but not that’s important.” They took a deep breath. “What I’m sayin’ is… could I pleeeeaassee tag along to help ya find this castle? My little trip has been super cool so far and this would make it even more awesome! Can I?”
Edited by J99908 on Aug 30th 2024 at 9:52:45 AM
It builds character.Stein's Study
"Bombs?" Banjo repeated, as if trying to confirm he heard that correctly. "Did you have to disarm them? Or take them somewhere where they'd blow up and not hurt someone?"
"I'll let you do the talking, Sagi. I've been told by some people that I get people mad at me when I talk to them." Kazooie commented, throwing a look at Banjo, though nowhere in that comment was an outright denial of the fact.
Sawwar Palace Exterior
"I think I'm gonna stick with Spyro. If one of us finds her, she's more likely to listen and not do anything rash. I hope." Amy said, adjusting her pace to follow suit with Spyro. When Shantae's head turned back to where they were going, she knelt down to speak more quietly into the dragon's ear.
"When we split up, we need to talk. It's important."
Proud member of the AGOG community.Sawwar, Palace Side Chamber -> Younger Prince's Chambers
"You're saying it wasn't actually His Majesty's idea to exile the Crown Prince?" Kiel asks the jester, eyebrows rising. "Well, I suppose we can speak of it later. Better to get Maester Dresden the material he needs sooner rather than later."
"Yep, looks like we're gonna be sneaking into the rooms of the missing members of the Royal Family, so that I can hopefully find something I can use for a tracking spell that will lead us to them!" I explain to Leonardo, standing and working a crick out of my neck. "Stocking and Lord Kiel are right; no time like the present! We just need to find a member of the staff who has keys first, right?"
"Correct, and I know just where to find them," Kiel confirms with a nod, beginning to lead the way out of the room. "Follow me, please, ladies and gentlemen."
Sawwar, Younger Prince's Chambers
And so, a short while later, we find and bring along with us a nervous-looking and polite but rather plain young maid, who hands Kiel the key to the absent younger Prince's chambers as we arrive at the relevant pair of doors. Slipping the key into the lock, the Lord unlocks the door as quietly as he can manage, seeing as we're trying to do this all stealthy-like and keep this from the eyes and ears of the King. The staff must keep the hinges well-oiled in spite of the occupant's missing status, as when I pull the door open after putting a finger to my lips to silently remind my companions to remain quiet, the wood complies with nary a whisper. What greets us inside is...
A woman clad in something like a red buccaneer's outfit, pulling things out of the Prince's drawers and stuffing them into a burlap sack?!
I quickly open my own bag and pull out my fairie rope, sending my will coursing through it so that it zooms through the air and ties first the thief's legs together, then ties her wrists behind her back, leaving her effectively hog-tied on the floor as the party and I storm into the room.
"Trying to steal the Prince's things while he's away, eh?" I leer down at the would-be cat burglar, my thorough disappointment coming through in my voice. "Not today! ...You didn't happen to stuff any hairbrushes in that bag of yours, did you?"
GM: AGOG S4 & F/WC RP; Co-GM: TABA, SOTR, UUA RP; Sub-GM: TTS RP. I have brought peace, freedom, justice, and security to my new Empire.Jiro - Sawwar, Town Area
Current Mood: Social
"Wow! It's so beautiful!"
A young man in a robe of orange and gray stands just past the entrance.
Wide, idealistic eyes stare at the palace looming over the distance, its foundations obscured by the hustle-and-bustle of its populace. He'd heard stories of what big cities were like, but to be in one? Amazing!
It had taken him a half-day's trek to get here from where his ship made port. The ship-ride over was fun, at least. It'd been the first time he'd left home. He'd always wanted to see what was beyond the ocean skyline. But the town he pulled into was so much like home he may as well have not left at all.
But here? It felt more...alive! Like things could happen here. And if the rumors he'd been hearing about the nobles were true, it practically had 'the start of a hero's journey' written all over it!
"Guess I may as well look around..."
Edited by klom99 on Sep 10th 2024 at 7:48:15 AM
"Doctor, I did say look for the Spymaster. Or should I say Spy....Master?"Leo (Younger Prince's Room)
Okay, so Leo got the gist of what they were doing: royal family had disappeared mysteriously, now they had to go find them. Seemed pretty straightforward.
...he did not expect to immediately run into a thief.
"Hey, hey, hey!" he yelled, scrambling into the room along with the rest of the party. "What's going on?! What are you doing?! Who even are you?!"
"Look inside yourself and to the stars; there, you will find your answers.""A dragon and a clown? Well, that's a quite unlikely duo to hear from." The Argonian mused as he heard the Saiyan speak. Normally people would dismiss much kind of visions as nothing but insanity, but considering the Tree Speakers back in Black Marsh saw visions from the Hist trees when they drank Hist Sap, that certainly wasn't insane talk to the Lawman.
And to be perfectly honest, while this sounded like a dangerous trip, he couldn't he was rather curious. Meeting an actual dragon up close? While it sounded rather dangerous, it certainly would be a tale to tell he beated and studied one to the others in the House Telvanni. Hopefully it's not the dragon that's in the legend of the World Eater, though...
"House Telvanni is normally not known for doing such charitable acts as stopping a dangerous threat, and I would be suggested to leave such things to other 'adventurers'. But this isn't Morrowind, and with no Magister on sight to scold me for such acts...I believe I would be glad to lend a hand on such threats."
Honestly, Jake wasn't sure of who and what was happening right now, as his mind was a blur. He should be focused more on the current goings, but with what happened to Ilulu was taking so much of his thoughts and mind, hoping nothing bad will happen to him. Dang, he really hates adult responsibilities!
Of course, once the red dragon snapped out of it, he noticed they had went into a room, and....uh, well, looks like someone did an oopsie trying to barge in restricted property.
"Shesh. Picked a bad time for thievery, lady." The dragon mused, looking between the thief and the others.
Szklana Góra - Baba's Tent (Milliarde Baelheit)
Milly raises an eyebrow at C.C. wanting a "private" fortune before stepping forward.
"I'll cover the fortunes - Sagi left our money with me. Love my boyfriend, but that wasn't the smartest move."
Milly produces a handful of coins, holding them out to Baba.
"Besides, I want mine told, too. Madame Baba, my name is Milliarde Baelheit. I come from the Empire of Alfard, in the sky archipelago above Alrest. I was hoping you could tell me what my future holds - regarding my relationship, my health...family, maybe? Just...the general, usual topics, nothing crazy."
That was...a surprisingly boring request, coming from Milly.
Stein's Study (Sagi)
"We were investigating the bombings, so we never actually had to try and disarm any."
"Which is good, because Sagi isn't what I'd call a machina expert."
"Hey!"
Tights clears her throat, stepping between the pair.
"In any case, we should start asking around for clues, I figure. Considering Okuu's 'cleaning job' and my, uh...slip-up with the moisturizer, I don't think there are any more clues to be found in here."
This post is sponsored by Amalgam Comics.Szklana Góra, Baba's Tent
"Ah, payment! Good, good!" Baba says with a greedy smile at the pile of coins, then looks into her crystal ball. "Now let's see... Milliarde Baelheit of Alfard... Milliarde Baelheit of Alfard... Ah! I seeeeeee..."
"I see you and your Sagi settling down on one of your islands in the sky, after your adventuring days are done. I see you have a happy marriage, and eventually, a little daughter named Melodia. She has your looks, but your man's hair color. And I see... Oh, dear. I see, in the seventh year of your daughter's life, a great and terrible plague sweeping the land, people dying left and right. Even you and your husband are not spared. You pass on to the hereafter, leaving your daughter orphaned and in the care of her adoptive grandfather. But then the plague comes for her as well... As she lies sick and dying, her grandfater, desperate to save her life, seeks divine intervention. But the only deity willing to answer his prayers is the Wicked God. And so, Melodia is infused with the essence of Sibling God Bo, and Malpercio's power warps the child into an instrument of great and terrible evil... Great and terrible..."
"And that's as much as you'll get out of me on that without paying for another fortune!" Baba states as she abruptly pulls back, frowning up at Milly, then looks to Meta Knight before gazing into her ball once more. "Now, Mister Knight, your Star Rod. Who took it, and where it is now. Hmmmmm... I seeeeeeee..."
"I see the Star Rod broken into seven pieces by what seems to be a man in an iron mask. I see he and his minions flee from Dreamland, flying over this continent upon which we stand, but something knocks them from the sky, and they fall far and wide across the Grimmlands to our East. I see that most fragments of the Rod remain in the clutches of the man in the iron mask and his minions, but others are lost to them, scattered somewhere across that fair country..."
"And that's all I have for you, Mister Knight!" She finishes, flashing him a smirk. "Not much of a quest if I tell you where and how to complete every last step, now is it?"
GM: AGOG S4 & F/WC RP; Co-GM: TABA, SOTR, UUA RP; Sub-GM: TTS RP. I have brought peace, freedom, justice, and security to my new Empire.Nia and Pyra, Szklana Góra, Baba's Tent: The Promised Land
The two talked amongst themselves during the trip, mainly about the group as they make a mental note of each of them. The two of them look at each other as the short lady with the pinkish hair told them their fortunes. They once again whisper at each other, "Do you want to ask or should I?"
"We'd get better results if it's you. Doubtful she'll sell us out."
The redhead nods as she clears her throat and approaches Baba, "Hello. I'm Pyra from Alrest, just below where she lives," she gestures to Milly, "And me and my Driver are wondering where Elysium is and how can we reach it?"
"I treasure every day with you, darling." "No need to be so sappy, love." "You know that's how she is, Nia." - AU!Pyra, Nia, MythraSzklana Góra, Baba's Tent (Milliarde)
At first, you can practically see the stars in Milly's eyes as she pictures settling down with Sagi. Her expression lights up upon mention of a daughter.
"'Melodia,' that's such a beautiful name..."
Upon mention of the plague, her smile begins to fade.
"But...we make it, right...?"
Only to immediately told no, they do not. The young lady continues to listen, her expression turning dark upon mention of "the Wicked God" and "Sibling God Bo."
"...Ven...?"
Baba has hardly finished her fortune when Milly slowly turns on her heel, hangs her head and walks out of the tent.
She...does not look okay.
This post is sponsored by Amalgam Comics.Sawwar Palace Exterior (Buzz Kill)
Having somehow managed to sneak her 'horse' past the guards, Bianca's first order of business here in Humdrum City was to find a quiet spot and reshape her guard toad into something a bit less... conspicuous. And portable. Portable was also important. More important, actually. It's not like she wasn't plenty conspicuous already. If she were better at transmogrification, she might consider disguising herself, but... well, she'd seen how that could go wrong. Seen it every day for five years.
This was pretty easy, given how lifeless the streets were, people dragging their feet and going about the daily grind in the least enthused manner possible. Good gods, she was never the happiest bunny at the best of times but seeing everyone like this almost made her want to drop everything and become a stage magician, maybe turn bits of garbage into flowers, anything to get these guys to lighten up. Well, plus side, this meant she didn't elicit a glance when she ducked into a dark alleyway to work her magic (thankfully there were no muggers in it this time. It was hard to explain to the guards at the last place how there was a Cowlekk rampaging through the streets).
Next on the agenda was tracking down Spyro. She'd heard on the grapevine that he and some traveling companions arrived in town not too long ago, but she hadn't the faintest clue where to start searching, and asking around for dragons would probably land her in hot water, given that stupid ban. But it seemed fate smiled upon her for once, as she happened to stumble upon a couple random locals gossiping to each other about a 'draconic diplomatic mission'. Quizzing them further (er, because she totally hates dragons, you guys, and wants to know where this so-called 'diplomatic mission' is so she can steer well clear! Psh, they probably just wanna rob the town blind when everyone's guard is down, amirite?) had the duo of 'Biggs and Wedge' (what a name!) point her in the direction of the palace. Well, she guessed that made sense. Where else was a diplomatic mission gonna go, the pub? ...Maybe if they seriously screwed up the negotiations...
Now having a solid lead, Bianca headed for the palace, thinking how to approach things. She hoped Spyro wasn't in the palace proper, she wasn't sure she could concoct a story to get inside. That stupid sign said they were gonna install anti-shapeshifter charms, maybe she could pretend to be a 'specialist' sent in from overseas to help out? No way that would work, if they were paranoid enough to have those at all, they'd ask for papers or something.
Unfortunately, while she was busy thinking, Buzz - in his new 'Toadasaur pup' form, only up to her knees and wide-eyed like a plush toy version of himself - wriggled out of her grip and went charging down the street.
"Wh- NO NO NO COME BACK WHERE ARE YOU GOING?!!" she thoughtlessly yelled out as she gave chase. Not having time to cast a Haste spell on herself, she only had her legs to rely on. Lapine she may be, even she was getting winded after passing the second block, and almost fell over as Buzz skidded on his legs and turned a corner, forcing her to do the same. The people around her seemed to be more alert now, especially once she passed into a fancier neighbourhood. So much for being inconspicuous!
It was then she saw the palace up ahead, at the end of a grand - but surprisingly narrow - street (must lead up to the caterers' entrance), and Buzz barrelling towards a rather colourful group of people, head angled down as if readying to ram them. Which would be problematic, to say the least. Clearly this wasn't working - but why did it need to? Once again, magic would have to bail her out of a problem magic had gotten her into.
As Buzz - mouth open, tongue swaying in the breeze and spraying amphibian slobber everywhere - charged forward, Bianca stopped and bent over, grabbing a handful of dirt from the road. Tossing it out in front of her and letting the wind carry it forward, she whipped out her wand, gave it a twirl and shouted out "IM LA UNEV, OTNEV!!"
With that spell, a gust of strong wind suddenly blew directly into Buzz's face, stopping him in his tracks. Trying to hang on against the inexplicable gale, his claws scraped against the cobblestone as he flew back, right into Bianca's arms.
"Huf, huf, huf..." she stopped to catch her breath, walking up to the group. "S-sorry about that, my er, 'pet' has been inexplicably grumpy as of late. It seems he still needs some housebreaking," she commented, as Buzz wriggled in her arms and sneezed a tiny little burst of flame.
Bianca finally got her bearings, looking up to face the group properly. "Sayyy, you people seem important. You wouldn't happen to know where I can find-"
She stopped in mid-sentence, her eyes finally registering who exactly was at the head of the group. Granted, he wasn't as she remembered him, but she knew perfectly well that dragons could assume a humanoid form, and the purple scales, banana-yellow horns, infuriatingly cocky expression, and the presence of a glowing golden dragonfly pretty much sealed it.
"...-Spyro? Huh. You look different."
She took this opportunity to lean over, inspecting his travel companions. Some kind of pale-skinned human attired in the stereotypical dress of the Djinn, a woman who was clearly another dragon in humanoid form, a bright pink Hedgehog-folk, and a young boy with a bowl-cut. ...She wasn't sure why, but he in particular felt like someone to watch out for. It's always the least ostentatious ones...
"...And you've already made some pals. Or picked them up off the side of the road. Er- sorry, I'm being rude. My name's Bianca Wyatt. Spyro's a friend of mine. He picked me up off the side of the road," she joked. "He tends to do that."
Edited by PresidentStalkeyes on Sep 18th 2024 at 9:45:21 AM
Those sell-by-dates won't stop me because I can't read!Sawwar
"Hate to spoil your good mood-"
Jiro's newly-met colleague hitches the black velociraptor he'd ridden into town to a post, tipping the poor employee now tasked with caring for it.
"-but I get the feeling neither of us is here for sightseeing."
The man raises an arm, showing off a bracelet inlaid with a jet-black gem, a reminder of what the two men had in common.
"Weird rumors of monsters in town? Heard that one before. Nobles publicly say it's nothing, but I did some talking on our way in. Apparently there's...'non-human' creatures living underground."
Doctor Oliver chuckles for a second, looking around.
"...Gonna be honest - met plenty of people in our line of work before. Don't think I'd heard of you until now...no offense."
Edited by ZodanTheUnbounceable on Sep 18th 2024 at 10:10:18 AM
This post is sponsored by Amalgam Comics.Spyro & Sparx-Sawarr-Rabbity Reunion
Spyro directs a questioning side-glance at Amy as she relays her whispered message, then shrugs imperceptibly and gives her a small nod.
He's not sure what it is Amy could want to talk about that she wouldn't want to share with anyone else here-especially not after their little jaunt to Ilulu's mindscape. Maybe she doesn't trust that Alexstrasza has Ilulu's best interests in heart?
Whatever it is, Spyro's sure he can handle whatever new complications this'll cause. Just add it to the growing pile, he's got this. Any more complications you want to send his way, Universe? Spyro's taking all-comers!
"...Hey Sparx, is that a tiny Buzz charging towards us?'"
"...Sure looks like it."
...Eh, why not?
Spyro takes a ready stance, a fireball forming in the back of his throat, and prepares to send the little toadosaur to meet his big brother when a powerful gale blasts Tiny Buzz backwards-right into the arms of a familiar face.
Now this is a much more welcome complication, Spyro'll admit.
Spyro drops his fighting stance and swallows the fireball (yeeeeeah, it's definitely for the best that he didnt get to fire off his dragon breath in this ridiculous city) and adopts a friendlier (and far cockier) stance as Bianca takes a moment to study him in his human form and realize that yep, it's him alright. Doesn't matter what form he takes, there's no mistaking Spyro for anyone else.
"What can I say, Bianca, I'm a popular guy. Besides, you know us dragons love to hoard," he says with a shrug, sly humor coloring his voice in response Bianca's joke, before he shakes his head and adds, " Heck, this isn't even the entire group."
"It's good to see you, Bianca," Spyro says sincerely, before remembering, hey, she had been going to ask his group if they'd seen him, hadn't she? Spyro knew what that meant. "What brings you to Sawwar? It's gotta be something important, if it's actually managed to drag you away from your books."
"Also, what's up with the tiny Buzz? Sparx asks, eyeing the toadosaur with distrust.
Edited by Dezmo on Sep 18th 2024 at 4:43:18 AM

Sometime, Someplace
Bardock strode with purpose up to the entrance to a grand castle, and with both hands, threw the heavy wooden doors wide open. Head on a swivel, he ventured further into its dark, ominous depths...
The Saiyan delivered a furious punch aimed at the Dark Dragon's temple, but the lithe lizard slipped out of the way at the last moment, and retorted with a fireball to Bardock's middle. Grunting in pain, the monkey-tailed warrior was pushed back by the force of the attack, but managed to steady himself — at least until the next attack came from the nefarious Jester behind him, slamming him in the back and looping vertically to repeat the same blow. But Bardock managed to catch the villain's head with his fist on the next pass, sending them tumbling backwards through the air.
The Saiyan took a breath and exhaled sharply, then brought a hand up to beckon to the Dragon attempting to double-team him.
"Bring it!"
A view of the same castle from the outside, wavering in place, being covered in mist, and then disappearing, as if it had never been there at all...
GM: AGOG S4 & F/WC RP; Co-GM: TABA, SOTR, UUA RP; Sub-GM: TTS RP. I have brought peace, freedom, justice, and security to my new Empire.