OOC: I know this thread has gotten long but you're gonna want to at least check everything in the index. The game has changed drastically and what was once believed to be the Badlands belongs to me. The Scorched Lavania however is unclaimed and seems perfect for your nation. The game is now more player-centric than nation-centric. So like I said check the index and try to catch up on recent events. Glad to finally see a new nation arrive to Dustia.

OOC: I was under the impression that the world is called Dustia. Dustia is not a single continent.

I believe these landmasses are indeed full continents. Might take you a while to populate the whole thing.

No name actually. You have Lavania, I have the Badlands, which is called Diyad, The Logipriest nation is really war torn and scavengers generally roam that area now. Besides that the middle continent has yet to receive a name.

OOC: The other logipriests are...gone. Conyr is the last and he is indeed on the central continent, last seen in the city of Venezzia. As far as I know, no has laid claim to the Eastern coastline of the central continent, if you feel like more aggressive colonisation later on. Also, name suggestion for the central continent: Mediterra

(Ooc) i'd just like to say, nexhawk that your idea for a race is really unique. Don't know why i say that now, jist thought you should know (ooc)

(Ooc) thank you! I like the introduction you had as well. Powerful, anwe could probably sit here all day and compliment each other each other but i assume not everyone wants to read that. (Ooc)

OOC: Have no idea what he's doing right now. Sandmen are a peculiar bunch. ANyway what I'm trying to say is that I did have somethings about my nation's backstory that I've been waiting to reveal, that I would be fine doing so using your artifact. It's just that the blackout period is less important and I'd rather talk about it at my own pace. That's all. I didn't want you to think that I was totally against that.

OOC: Man Nexhawk way to show off on every single post lol. Anyway I need to see where Brutus is and Sandromin needs to respond to my proposals, and make some himself if need be. Then I can do my thing and we can get rolling.

<-------- Frome this guy,

Oh, and by the way, we're the...

SECOND MOST POPULAR THREAD ON THESE FORUMS! The only thread above us is STB/SVER recruitment. Please keep in mind I'm excluding announcements from the developers.

ALSO, where do I start reading from? I was at where Thanatos was in the building first. I think it's like page 21?

OOC:

I'd just like to ask again, to all my fellow storytellers:

If you had to represent the essence of your nation, exactly what defines it, with a tree, which tree would it be?

I believe Brutus and Alixenus have already answered, but if guys you wish to change your decisions that's fine.

Thanks :)

OOC: Sandy just made me realize that this story has been having a severe lack of comic relief lately...

[OOC]Trust me when I say this, Nexhawk. Xavier will not lose the book. The book is his life. His essence. The knowledge it contains draws him. Lets him take any risk. He will keep the book. But will he keep his sanity? That my friend, we will find out shortly...[/OOC]

OOC: Remember Nexhawk, technically this is still the day your first contact us. Just a reminder so you don't stray too far ahead. I will be with you soon.

Edit: Also if someone ever says YOLO, refer them to my character....

(Ooc) some day(ooc)

OOC: Are the Ferals the result of a bio-weapon or magic?

OOC: Well what song would befit a grizzled soldier-come-statesman like Alixenus? Something bombastic like a marching song or something?

And yes, I realize magic is a very VERY lacking subject here... we need to start discussing some treatises on it, so let me begin:

1) Anyone can use it, but it takes exceptional practice and time for humanoids to use it.
2) Some races (which usually is specified upon introduction) just have a natural affinity to it.
3) The Vision does not qualify as traditional magic; rather it is a special ability provided by higher powers.
4) Everyone has an aura unless they're a dirty goblin. Goblins have no ability to use magic.
4a) Auras typically dictate magic type, affinity, and ability to use magic of any given purpose
4b) Auras are a natural trait.

OOC: 1) Magic is particularly strong in several locations with those born near them developing a magical affinity. That being said there's no magical source in Venezzia but we do get a Wizard or Witch every once in a while, often after they have practised for many years.
2) Siding with Brutus that God's might have a hand in this.
3) No problem with vision being a one off
4) There are Goblins now? I must enslave them to work on my ships!
4a) Abstaining from vote
4b) Abstaining from vote.

Also, I kinda feel like Venezzia is the poorer relation in this world. Due to accidently writing myself into a corner, we have almost no magic, so we're screwed if the AN or Fate pops up. We don't appear to be militarily superior to anyone, though our civvies seem only second to Brutus' people in martial prowess. We're clearly not the most advanced seeing as we're still relying on steel and sail. Our only pros seem to be in Trading, Diplomacy, Culture and accidently spawning the Diyadians. I don't know where this post was going, maybe I'm just insecure on some level about either my race or my writing skill, who knows?

I would personally think this would be the first meeting, but it is your character, so do whatever sounds best to you.

And also, could you please provide an accurate description of the Ashborn Capital? Xavier was going to spawn there, but I honestly don't know what it looks like, so I couldn't include it in my post.

We interluded it.

He is making a quick journey to Diyad, and then he'll be back at the Guild to begin the journey.

OOC: I forgot to add, Brutus is totally aboard the airship too! I promised to bring him to his lands personally.

OOC: Sorry it took so long but here it goes...

@Nexhawk: As for magick it would seem we've come to a consensus. It just sounded weird at first with all the talk of magick sources.

No followers; he's a necromancer, so all his followers are dead that are risen. If you read the second lore bomb a little more carefully, you'd know that I alluded to your Deathlords; he resurrected several kings as his dark minions.

(Ooc) both eggs toward the egg, and gently touched the egg. Lot of egg in that sentence.(ooc)

OOC: Perhaps I'm mistaken...

OOC: When's the band of heroes forming? Also, @Thanatos, robots have no social skills, as you have probably noticed :P

The Chief Engineer of the Collective was taken aback. "If you speak of copyright infringement, I'm not sure the analysis results of my sensors were accurate enough to warrant that. Electromagnetic imaging can only do so much. But if you insist..." it pause for a moment. "...I will delete the file, and have done so by the time of the utterance of this sentence." It then walked to a corner of the engine room and switched to power conservation mode.

Brutus sat down on the beach and looked toward the two great flying ships.

OOC: At last! I have survived the trial of the lore bombs and caught up with everyone else. Now to answer the pressing issues of the day. Both I and Alixenus are unsure about whether or not to side with fate, despite the fact that she seems to be gravitating towward lawful evil. Alixenus himself is likely on the good-neutral boundary, more on the lawful side of things. The collective seems to osciliate wildly in their behaviour depedning on the situation, so as a whole I'd put them in true neutral. It also occurs to me that if Fate manages to bring the collective round to her side, we're suddenly staring down the barrel of a Terminator-esque apocalypse. Hell maybe even Borg, but I digress.

Having read the lore-bombs I notice that there may be a slight conflict arising between Sandromin and myself. He pretty much covered every angle with that creation story, meanwhile I've been alluding to Venezzians having their own set of deities beside the elder gods (note my last conversation with Fate). I suppose the Venezzians could in fact be worshipping the Second, but I've already mentioned Hera and Athena. Going back and editing that section out is an option, either that or we have ourselves another law storm.

OOC: What was going to be done in Diyad? Form the band of heroes or discuss more politics?

OOC Each of our nations hadn't seen each other since this 'first empire' that Sandromin's creation story mentioned. Yet despite this we've overcome our natural suspicions and gelled together in the face of common threats incredibly quickly and easily. Frankly, we're lucky to have only had *this* much politicking already. Oh and I wasn't aware that I needed to reply to you Nexhawk.
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Alixenus came back on deck to see a man born of ash and flame standing amongst his companions. He had recieved a note just a day before from the Charybdis claiming that they had encountered such people by the Logipriest island. Surely it couldn't be the same ship both there and here? Their speed of propulsion would have to be incredible. His curiosity piqued, Alixenus put the book he was carrying into one of his larger pockets and approached the congregation.

OOC: Okay I will edit accordingly...In other news, is the AN going to make an appearance or are we leaving them out until we write the sequel ;)

Yes, but not in the way you think.

I have a few questions, Has the map changed from the one on page 3? Is there room for me? What Tier are you in? is it a good time for me to join? Is this going to be a book or something?

I have a few questions, Has the map changed from the one on page 3? Is there room for me? What Tier are you in? is it a good time for me to join? Is this going to be a book or something?

OOC: Seeing as there's nothing happening, I'll narrate.

The airship neared the steam-shrouded city of Diyad, with its metal cities and factories. Alkhemists manipulated matter to give it shape previously unknown or impossible in the great refineries. As the airship reached a docking hangar, a hook was attached to a ring in its side to herd it steadily downwards. A walkway was raised to the zeppelin's doors, which promptly opened.

And I'm back. So, I got this neat little short story I wrote on my own time about the Sandmen. It is a part of short collection of short stories of the era of the First War. Also, I'd love to see somebody pick up as a Barbarian leader *HINT HINT*.

So, without further ado, my Literature assignment from last week!

I have RETURNED!!!!!!

OOC: Not yet Brutus, not yet

"You are correct in your assumption. We choose our own special arts over magick. However that is all I can tell you. As of now it isn't my place to give you any further information."

[OOC]Please forgive my absence, everyone. At least you all have been somewhat busy...

All right, time to unleash my inner Xavier...[/OOC]

Failure. Failure. The mission was completely unsuccessful. Fate herself even showed, yet he was not amazed. He did not even have the need to blink his old, wise eyes. Se froze time in its place, and even spoke to him, and still, he was not fazed. What a strong man. A strong man of will. Dare say a stubborn man. But, he tried to do what was right. For his people. For himself. And Xavier respected this. The populace of Lucia was Xavier's life. His soul. His essence. The thought that he knew they were free, and safe, empowered him. The power he had over them, strengthened him. In fact, he could not tell any more what he desired the most, power, or the joy of freedom. Xavier was confused. Nexhawk was not. This is how the respect was won.

The man simply turned, and walked away. Not very far, mind, just to, Xavier presumed, the royal stables. What was the color? Take a guess? Crimson! Yes, crimson! The stables were much more fine then that, though. The crimson flowers Xavier had seen on his walk to the palace were quite abundant, and were clinging gracefully to the beam that supported the stable. Many strange symbols were engraved on the stable, except they moved. They seemed to all swirl in a clockwise direction, and at the same pace. They glowed with a, wait for it, crimson hue, as if warding off some evil.

The beasts were more beautiful then the stables, however. At first glace, all you saw were impossibly large eggs. The eggs were surprising not crimson, but were a pure white with black spots surrounding it. Then the magic happened. The beasts could hatch at will, and it was extraordinary! The shells would crack fiercely, as if it had a purpose. Crack. Crack. Crack. Strange crimson hues would emit from these crevices, which then would overtake the whole egg. After a few seconds, the lights would subside, and a large, majestic bird would appear in its place, the egg not to be seen. It seemed to be made of pure fire (which was in a visibly recognizable shape of a very large bird). The fire on the bird was ever flowing, and it was so detailed and precise that you could see every single feather. It was a surprise that Nexhawk did not get burned.

Nexhawk spoke of going to the enemy, and asked if Xavier would like to join him.

"Nay, comrade. I can not go to the heart of the beast. It would not be wise with the book," he thumped it twice, "and the very different views of my own."

Nexhawk nodded to him, and appeared to be wanting to make his bird sour.

"Remember, Nexhawk, the carriage cannot be driven if the conductor is dead. Heed this warning, Nexhawk, and may you persuade them to join The Cause."

[OOC]Remember to drop what you think your character alignment would be. So far we have:
Collective (I think): True Neutral

Alixenus: You mentioned something about be Neutral-Good, with a little Lawful mixed in, so I'll put you in the Lawful-Neutral category.

Xavier: He is most likely Chaotic Good.

Is there anyone else I missed? Remember, Character Alignmentsaid your character, not hinder them.

[/OOC]

OOC: Okay are we seriously forgetting the conversation Thanatos was engaging with Sandromin and Alixenus?

(Ooc) well, I'm bored of Brutus not doing anything, so I'm gonna do a random story in the land go the dead. (Ooc)

OOC: //Sorry to interject with the story. I've been following along, but was a few days behind.

I know you all have fairly settled the matter of the Dark Arcanum, but I had a thought that might mesh the disparate stories a little better, without stepping on toes.

I see it as the DA was originally crafted by Fate as a tool for the Deathlord (capital D marking the master from the servants), and as such she imbued part of his soul into the book, along with the stolen soul of the betrayer.

This imbuing of combative souls granted the book exceptional power, and a knowledge of magic far surpassing any normal means, but also engendered an oily film of insanity as both aspects battled for eternity inside the tome.

If you'll pardon the Harry Potter reference, I see the book as a Horcrux of sorts. It functions as a part of the Deathlord's soul, and remains highly potent while disconnected from the source, but exponentially strengthens the Deathlord (AN) if/when he is reunited with the book.

This could play into the suggestions floating in Xavier's head, the book wants to be whole, even at the cost of the bearer's life to get back to the Deathlord.

Intrinsically tied to the fact that the book is a horcrux, as long as the book exists, the Deathlord will find a new host to infect with an aspect of himself, until he slowly rises to prominence again. This would give a purpose to the roving deathlords (lower case d to indicate the slave kings), as they are prowling around looking for their risen master, and performing nefarious feats as well to bide time.


As to meshing the history, the book was created by Fate, stolen by the Five, returned by the betrayer, and bound to the Deathlord. Deathlord fled Precantaeria for the other continent where he eventually died at the hands of the first hero under Freedom. Unfortunately for this hero, he was much like Isildur in his ignorance of the danger a mere "trinket" could pose, so he did not ensure that the book was destroyed. Since the book is part of the Deathlord, it willfully bonded itself to one of the hero's retinue, and became immaterial, hiding in the soul of the poor retainer. The book waited many long years before deciding the danger had passed and elected to re-materialize, crafting the idea that the scribes had "created" the book recently. The book influenced those present to decide that it would be best to spirit the book away, to keep it "safe", when in fact the book was having them move it away from the greatest danger present, the king. Thus it came to be hidden on the logipriest island long ago, and it slumbered while awaiting the rise of the true host, the next great AN.


I am not sure if this conflicts with any of the established lore, this is just what I took from reading the different origins of the book. After all, as was stated before, history is written by the victors, and in this particular instance, the real victor has been the book for an unknown length of time.

As I am not a contributing author to the world, take my suggestions with a ton of salt. I figured this would blend the two stories, and posit that the book has a malicious will of it's own, when not being directed externally by Fate to be docile. (Reason for fluctuating insanity for Xavier)



Also, everyone's story here is awesome. I would definitely pay to read your work in hard-back format. //End OOC

I always did give the impression that the Dark Arcanum (The Book) had a mind of its own, and (was) influencing Xavier's thoughts until it recently took a liking to him.

My back-story on the book is that, yes, it was crafted by Fate, but it originally was destined to be good, and help The Five mold the world into a paradise. They succeeded, but one of the Five became corrupt, greedy, and twisted the book with dark magics. He essentially made the paradise world a living hell, until all the Gods caught wind of the destruction and mayhem he caused. The Gods took to recreating the world in their hands, because they could no longer trust humans. This was, however, not a paradise, for they deemed that the punishment was too great to be put on only The Five. The severely limited the powers of the Five, and banished to specific locations in Dustia. Here is where The Five created societies that revolved around different magics, such as fire or water. To limit their ever growing knowledge, the Gods imposed a mandatory reincarnation period every 150 years, where they were forced to be reincarnated into another human being, but without the knowledge they previously possessed. This forced The Five to write down everything they have learned, so the previous life could have the same powers as they.

The evil member of the Five, the one who corrupted the world, was banished to the farthest and most desolate place in Dustia, where he would remain for all eternity. This man is the AN. The Book was also separated from him, for his powers are worthless without it.

Or so it seems...


And that is my back-story. It probably conflicts with something, I'm sure of it. But, nevertheless, here it is. How do all of you like it?

OOC: @ Sir Thanatos.

I did recall that it stayed in Diyad for some time after the AN was defeated, but I wasn't clear when it migrated to the Logipriest temple. Or am I confusing story elements?

Was the temple collapse and Thanatos' death taking place around the DA on a pedestal, or some other artifact?

@Nexhawk I looked back, and it was indeed on page 10, the book was conjured from a thread. So we could edit to say that the book influenced the scribes to "hide" it in some pocket space, which the King (Lionus, and through him Thanatos) would be able to protect and keep from being abused. The actual reasoning would be to slowly poison the mind of the ruler, as would seem to be the case on page 9, when Thanatos was sounding similar to Xavier. Whether anyone realized that the book had engineered it's own safe-keeping is another question. Perhaps some of the scheming Secret Council knew, and wished for Thanatos to die or go crazy through exposure to the DA.

So basically, the only edit to the long post being that the book did not send itself to the logipriest island, but was slumbering in the pocket dimension represented by the thread.

Does that work?

I would have brought this up in a more timely manner in the 30s, but work is so pesky and refuses to leave me alone.

OOC: So sometime after the book's conception and after the defeat of the first AN, it made it's way to the land of the Mortuums where a long battle would take place between them and one of there brethren. This would be Ignak the AN. He would ultimately defeat the rest and consume their souls. With him left on the vast continent the small colony of Diyad would form into a sizable nation. After receiving the saber from Fate, the 7th king, Lionus III waged war on Ignak and his undead army. After slaying Ignak, Lionus tried to destroy it. This didn't work so he hid it in a secure location outside of the nation's borders, hopefully never to be seen again. Although Diyadian history may tell you that Lionus died decades after, this is not true. Merely weeks after hiding the book, Lionus was approached by Fate who offered him eternal life so that they may be together forever. He rejected her love, not remembering a promise he made as a child. Now we have an angry goddess and a king. She wipes out his family, by stopping their hearts. She punishes Lionus by casting him into the Sea of Souls. The book lay dormant until the third era and the appearance of the amnesia-ridden Thanatos. After the Great Civil War, he becomes king once more. He does however remember the location of the book. After that, if you read back you know about his quest to find the pieces of the cipher, so that people may learn how to counteract it's evil magicks. And as we know, when Thanatos was slain, the book fell near Sandromin, but Xavier picked it up.

The book in nature is desires to become whole, often this would mean finding an AN. Xavier would be right in assuming that the book took a liking into him. In Xavier it sensed power and strength. So yes it's attraction to Xavier is unique. But do not be fooled. It only wishes to become whole.

I introduced Fate mainly to push the plot forward, but also to introduce one key element. Everyone's character is vital in the grand scheme of things. They each possess a trait, be it a goal, ambition, or belief that is so strong that it challenges the gods. This is a very essential tool that I only touched on briefly with my earlier dialogues with Fate. But I'll elaborate on this later.

Edit: If anyone has any input feel free. I'm trying to be more open to suggestions. So I can edit earlier stuff if need be.

Nexhawk and Xavier were flying next to eachother, the phoenixes cawing happily in the breeze. The air blew through Xavier's hair. It was quite refreshing. The clouds were blow them. It would be a perfect dream if Xavier wasn't in mind numbing pain due to the sudden change in altitude.

He tried to strike up a conversation:

"Nexhawk, how did you learn of this book?"

Their eyes meet.

"I can only make a guess. It's the same thing you and I both feel right now. Fear. Fear of dying. Fear is a sickness, it can easily evolve into something more, no matter how small. In this case evil intention, to prove one's exemption of death by creating and destroying life of their own. How fitting..."

@Nexhawk...

OOC: I rushed it a bit, so I looked at Xavier's icon, read "Ner'zul Nexhawk" for some reason, and posted. It's really fascinating how your brain can screw you over by filling in the blank parts of your sensorium incorrectly. I don't think I read anywhere that the meeting was going to be only between Thanatos, Alixenus and Sandromin.

[OOC]I believe it would be much easier if we just narrated Fate within our own posts. If she talks to Xavier, then I will write how I perceive her.

If she talks to Alixenus, then he will narrate how he perceives her.

And so on, and so forth.

But let us not completely demonize her. I have shown a (moderately) good side of her. She is not Chaotic Evil. Perhaps Lawful Evil? Or maybe even Lawful Neutral, for she is Fate, and therefore by nature must be unbiased about every-which thing.[/OOC]

Or, at least, that is what would have happened. Oh, but it is a blessing to have Fate itself on your side! She benevolently repressed the book's thoughts and influences on his mind; quite permanently, actually. But the damage was done. Repairing that mind in such a state, she could not do. This mind was almost impossible to repair. Oh, but she tried her best, she did, and, be assured, every bit helps.

So, logically, this is what truly happened:

Nexhawk's hand was pressed on Xavier shoulder. It was a firm grip. A pleasant grip. A warm grip. He looked in the man's eyes. The were, hmmm, crimson, but a friendly kind. Xavier could almost see the horrors the elder experienced, but also the happy times, the good times. For a split second, Xavier felt a rage like no other, greater than his hate for Thanatos himself, but it subsided, for the warmth mended his soul, and protected him from the corruption of the book.

"Please, walk on, comrade. Forgive my outburst; it was mighty rude of me to interrupt your conversation. But please, do not mind me walking with you, for I have absolutely no-one else to speak to."

(Ooc) I apologize, for the back to back long posts. (Ooc)

(0oc) I'll never tell...(ooc)

So is this some sort a prophecy? Has Frost somehow glimpsed into the future? Or maybe Fate was warning him about what was to come? I wonder where this is going to go. Also, you may have been describing a different dwarf, for my Xavier is tall and lengthy.

Novelization, is, well, novelization. He almost has to put everything in his own writing style. I don't see how he couldn't, unless he just copy-and-pastes the whole thing, which would be no fun at all!

P.S. On a further note, I do believe that Sandromin has yet to reply to finish the meeting. He has to do this soon, for the thread is starting to stall, except for a few well written lore bombs, which I don't feel like writing right now.

P.S.S. By the way, this a perfect time for an explosion of some sorts. It does not matter the reason, this thread need some action!

P.S.S.S. Or you guys can just finish the meeting. Either or.

P.S.S.S.S. Or perhaps both.

P.S.S.S.S.S. Don't mean to rush, but, again, besides those lore posts, this thread has been stalling lately.

(Ooc) I've noticed that we've been stalling out lately as well. I've been slowing down because there have been other people trying to join and this post has become Brutus-taculiar. As in it's gigantic now. So I'd like to propose we slow down for a few days because even I'm running out of ideas. And on a side note thanks to everyone for giving me so many props on my prophecy. Just trying to spice up some stories for frost.(Ooc)

OOC: I understand why so much attention was drawn to Sandromin, but not addressing the king in his own capital, that hurt my feelings.*sad face* You hurt me reel deep.

Thanatos gives the fiery one a puzzled look. He didn't let it show, but as the king he was slightly offended*sad face*. His attention immediately draws towards Xavier.

"Stand down Alixenus, I have no qualm with any dwarf of Lucia, and I don't plan to. Xavier, I trust you are here for a more peaceful discussion than last night. Have you conquered the book? I do hope so. I put all of my trust in your strength. However I am only mortal..."

Achyr stands aside from everyone. As the trio exited the meeting room, Thanatos told him to prepare for an important announcement. He was anxious to hear what this was about. For now he watches as the politicians greet one another.

OOC: Same with me.

it's to long, I'll just start here

OOC: Sandy needs to sort this out. BTW sorry for the lack of posting. I've been pumping hours into Civilization V. I think I may have an addiction.

Okay

OOC: Uhh, who are we waiting on now that Xavier's off with the fairies? Is it Nexhawk or Thanatos?

OOC:I did not forget about you Brutus,I just need some time. You as well Galrick. I've just had a lot of real world things to deal with. In conclusion, I hate the real world.

P.S. How many of us actually still play Dust?

Because we're waiting on Sandromin, but his computer's busted. Either that or we're on a mid-season break and nobody told the two of us.

Basically, some part of these pages was just other people coming in and admiring this magnificent creation.

For the rest of it, there was some continuation for our side characters' and parallel stories. Specifically, Frost traveled to the city of the dead and is now on the verge of dying from the hands of the shade that summoned him in the first place. Fatoxum reminded his brother in a rather aggressive way to stay careful and not to talk aloud about "something" that will immensely help Nexhawk after some time. (Consider it being a positive time bomb, in a sense.) Vyzion killed himself for no clear reason, and Conyr, after almost being cooked alive by the crazy female dwarf, also died, if I interpreted everything correctly. So I've not idea now what Vyzion is going to do.

Meanwhile, Xavier has officially lost his sanity. But worry not, he didn't yet annihilate everyone one the spot. Instead, the Dwarf fainted, as the corruptive magic of the Dark Arcanum moved into his mind. Nexhawk, at the mean time, grabbed the book and asked the Trinity to let him use it in order to assemble and activate a certain artifact, created by Fate in time immemorial. The artifact, apparently, will be able to recount the history of any people that are now part of our story; moreover, it will somehow allow our heroes to see the future, which might help in the fight against Fate. However, even Nexhawk doesn't know what future exactly is going to be shown. Thanatos categorically refuses, claiming that the book has been under Diyadian jurisdiction since the second era. Alixenus, on the other hand, thinks that, unless someone has a better plan, Nexhawk should keep and use the book.

No I think it does not

How is this thread still alive?,
Bacon

I am back, everyone. I know you all missed me....






I was going to post an elegant swig of wine, bu someone needs to tell me, where is my character right now? In a stretcher or still lying on the ground, unconscious as a man who is unconscious?

(Psst, what do I need to respond to if anything?)

[OOC]You were there? Thank you, mate. Sadly, a bug got me and prevented me from leading a squad. Ah, CCP....

Hmmm. Well, apparently you guys are not even fazed by my fainting. I suppose you have seen worse, zombies and all. Of course, what fun would there be without Xavier? None, of course. This story needs an anti-hero/villain/wolf in sheep's clothing somewhere...

I take it I am in an infirmary? Or a stretcher? I'll go with the stretcher.[/OOC]

And so it was! The poor bastard got what no being should ever experience. The absolute and complete lose of the mind. Oh, the woe! Oh, the misery this man must experience!

The stretcher shook back and forth, back and forth, as if someone was rocking a baby in it's cradle. Xavier was a mess. His armor, sweet and shiny, but his face, oh so badly worn. It looked, different. More, wild. More, old. Blood was all across his face. It 'twas a hard, hard fall.

Xavier stirred. There were two men carrying the stretcher. They were both adorned with a pure white robe. This was strange to Xavier. Why wear white was it was destined to get dirty? In dwarven culture, a deep red was the coat doctors wore, so patients could not see the blood.

"Where am I?" asked the tired man in the stretcher.

Both men looked down at him. "He is alive," one said.

"Don't worry. you are going to be alright."

Xavier looked at his body. He was still in his silvery armor which was shining in the sunset. Why was he in the stretcher. He did not feel sick or hurt.

What exactly happened? I opened the book and it, attacked me. I then fell...

The book. Where was the book? The book, that began Xavier's misery, and still will not let go! Oh, the book will not let go!

Xavier suddenly, to the doctors' surprise, rolled over and fell, face first, to the cold pavement. The pain was sharp and sudden, but it did not matter. Xavier wanted the book.

The doctors crowded against Xavier. He had a bloody nose from the fall. They both were urging him to get back on the stretcher.

"No. Leave me be. Both of you." Xavier turned around. He had an aggressive expression on his face. The blood made him seem, demonic.

The men, apparently intelligent, stepped back from the dwarf. He had ambition in his eye. Oh, yes, he was destined to get that book. And with that, he shambled on, down the corridor, where They were conversing..

[OOC]How is my writing? I have not posted in a while...[/OOC]

OOC: Okay now I'm convinced everyone participating in this is telepathic. It seems every time I get ready to unleash/introduce something, you guys are always one step ahead of me. Interesting...

OOC: For continuity's sake it's best we wait for the others to respond, specifically Xavier to the guards.

OOC: Sorry, I won't be able to post until June 9th. Exams.

(Ooc) so is anyone still around?(ooc)

Sandromin was walking towards his ride to Arteum when he felt its presence. He knew not what it was, but felt something. Or, rather, something. Whatever it was, it was full of malicious intent. He had a feeling it was... empty, almost like a void. As quickly as he had begun to leave he was walking back. Sandromin knew very well what lie ahead, ahead and most likely he was to have another fateful encounter.

As he walked through the passages, he felt the presence, or the lack of it thereof, growing stronger. His eyes had picked up on this and changed accordingly. They grew a deeper shade of red, crimson as the first moon during an eclipse. Void. This word kept growing louder in his mind. It was almost as if his mind were chanting it. And then he saw it. A completely inhuman being to his eyes, he saw the Void.

Sandromin pulled his sword and focused radiant heat onto it. It was time to kill this unholy being; it had no right of being here and wreaking havoc.

Void.

"What are you?" Sandromin began.

Void.

"Well, whatever you are, you shall die here by my sword!" he exclaimed after the lack of response.

Argh, I can't stop this stupid word from repeating itself in my head. Void this, void that. My concentration is completely off. As if I can trade blows with this... thing. I need to hold back and wait until I see what this thing can do. Not only that, but if I charge right in, my lack of attentiveness will get me killed like those poor men, or at least their blood, on the floor. Void... hmph.

As the thing that used to be Halvedes came at him, Sandromin leapt back, dodging all his... arms?... proficiently. This was the first time he used his vision in combat, and it allowed him to interpret and counter his enemy accordingly. Still, Sandromin needed to clear his mind, or else his fate would be sealed.

As he dodged, he realized everything its arms touched were absorbed into it.

Ah, so that's what this blob does. I can't use a sword against this confounded being, so I'll have to observe its actions. In the meantime, I'll sheath my sword so as to not lose it. Void.......? Argh, this is ridiculous.

Fair enough. I fixed it (hopefully).

OOC: Cool, no problem Thanatos :)

On another note I would like your input all. I fear that either the quality of my writing has vastly decreased since starting this, or I'm just realizing that I suck at writing. It's been really bothering me lately. As I've seen everyone else's writing improve when you were already excellent before.

OOC: Nexhawk, ding ding ding! You partially figured out his weakness. He cannot absorb physical attacks. There is a catch though...

1300 posts. Waiting for that new millennial post as I was robbed of the last one.

A feint voice echos from the thick miasma of procrastination.

"I am..."

OOC: I'll be posting within the next hour or so. Here's a quick note though. So you can prepare your response.

-You were partially right about your reasoning for Void's defeat, the true reason will be revealed (dun dun duuunnn)

- Your attack will land, but I don't think this is the last YOU'LL see of him.

- Brutus, you aren't even in the meat of the conspiracy yet, it affects everyone else in some way. You'll learn more about the Snake of Illusion.

-Alixenus, I admire your use of THE RIVVVEEERRRSSS

Here's the big mysterious one: Thanatos' purpose as a character is almost up.

(Ooc) I would like to say I miss galrick. And infinite sentinel. That is all. (Ooc)

[///OOC: Oh, ooh, can I then describe what the attack is going to bring? Please? //End of OOC\\quote]

What do you have in mind? For the sake of sticking to the (established) lore, note that Nexhawk cannot at this time:

- Kill him
- Mortally wound him

OOC: ... Well this will be good, I swear I've had this part in my head for a while, it's like you were reading my mind, and did exactly as I expected. I'm seriously staring to believe that I have multiple personalities, all just writing this story. Either that or there is some serious telepathy going on here. I refuse to believe we're just thinking alike...

And Nexhawk left the unconscious Thanatos to perish, the end...

Dwarf Pit fights!? Why wasn't I informed of this...

ROCK BREAKERS!

More seriously, I think you should high power jets of water. If you do, you should be able to erode rock and whatever is beneath the flesh.

Fun fact: Pressurized water can cut through steel if shot in a concentrated jet with enough pressure.

I'm a bit insulted! I thought I was the sub-antagonist! *Crys*

...

...

So where is that Eye, again? Oh wait, I was supposed to write a story about that kid!

SPOILER ALERT: I'm going to turn him into Jesus, or something.

OOC: You know I have already revealed Void's weakness? That's okay :D always need a plan B!

P.S.: Brutus you're doing just as well as you always have.

OOC: Not referring to the physical blows. Look deeper.

OOC: The only Venezzians that I had written about were Merchant Marines that I drafted to find Xavier/ Fight whoever was with him. I can think of thee explanations. One: Praecantaria had a naturally low population of mir compared to the lands of us normals, so perhaps a large band of routed marines would be equivalent in size to an army to them. Two: I actually had a **** tonne of Marines beside me and didn't know it. Three: Some Venezzian dignitary is in town and he and his retinue (which would naturally be huge) got mixed in with the Marines.

The children of the lost blood, and the unmet queen.

OOC: I'm assuming at this point no one is really going to be joining the game anymore. You would have to be extremely interested/invested in the story to read over 70 pages of this. This would get boring if our nations were the only ones in the entire world. Or if our main characters were the only ones that did things.

I don't know, man. I already have a split personality with Xavier. I don't think I can do any more...

P.S. It gets quite awkward sometimes around the dinner table.

P.S.S. I can write another summery! It went well the last time...

Also, I would like to know where the eye is located. But, I will not do anything yet, until you guys go on your "expedition" to find it.

When are you planning to do that, anyway? I feel that Xavier is becoming less important, so I really need to throw him back in here...

OOC:I second Nexhawk's #1.


...Also I forgot to add earlier. I think we should all take the time to give a more detailed description about our nations and there cultures. I say this because I realized there have been inconsistencies between the ways I describe Diyadian armor. I wanted the resistance guys to have armor similar to Diyadian armor, then I realized I've described their armor being gold, light, heavy, white, helmet, no helmets. So I think we should all organize this information similar to the original nation setup we were using. This way we each have something to work off of instead of making things up as you go along. Including things such as:

Nation Colors:
National Animal(what it represents):
Flag Description:
Standard Weapons:
Armor worn (including different military types like guards and King's Men)
National Tree:
Values(such as Athens-education and Sparta-military):
Notable Laws/Rights (like gay marriage, or women can't vote):
Notable Attractions/Landmarks:
Common Religion/Practices:

So what do you guys think? Any more to add?

I'll help you out: #2 is not it.

OOC: Hm, I would've thought that someone would've seen or heard this duel after such a long time, unless these Kalter groves are remote or private? And yes the desert is an excellent deterrent, and that was before we even knew you were in there!

OOC: Yikes, never thought I'd have to bump this thread. Simply put, I'm suffering writer's block as I don't know how to make Alixenus waking up to find himself essentially mummified by doctors particularly interesting. Any ideas?

Bloody platforms? What the...

Dead end, bloody... Fate, always has a plan.

I suppose I will teleport somewhere. You guys really need to start the expedition. Xavier wants to say hi.

Also, is it alright if I kill one of them? Xavier should be able to bypass the cloak, since he is able to regenerate and all.

OOC: Alright Alixenus, get your ass up. We're waiting...