Friar Tuck

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. What the karzahni does that half-pint think he's- Oh. OH! I just might survive this... my gamble paid off. Kind of. Calling me Dorian was probably a stroke of small genius, the similarities in our appearances and styles somewhat-common knowledge, though our bodily colors couldn't be farther apart. However, I was going to guess THEY didn't know that is he was going to invoke that name... and when I mean they I mean ANOTHER Skakdi coming down the stairs after the informant. Not to mention if I got out of this mess I was sure the he was going to insist that I "owed him"... I wasn't sure if I was better off before these turn of events or after. The only thing I could do now was play along. "I can't wait to see you try and spill the rest of the beans through your broken neck." I snarled, for the moment suspending my fear in favor of being ###### as a mother ash bear finding out her cubs were being messed with.... I allowed some more of that debonair come flowing back, trying to find my inner Dorian. I only spent waaaaaaay too much time with the guy. "Oh, well. No use crying over spilt ex-girlfriend tears. As thrilled I am to see your pretty face to lend me some cred, I'll be sure to let your boss know how easily you squeal." I returned my gaze back to Zaktan, no doubt trying to piece together what had just transpired. Thinking like Dor I smiled, the side of my lips twitching, looking like I was trying to hide a smirk instead. "Well, that was unfortunate. A Matoran shows up and just like that, easy-peasy lemon-squeazy my cover's blown. Yeah, look, I may be a hit man, but I can assure you I didn't come to make a mark on this place, cross my heart and hope for celibacy. Especially after seeing these odds." I thumbed at the Rahkshi again, allowing a bit of that fear to return while using my other hand to motion over my heartlight. "As I said, I'm here to deliver something special, no questions, no comments. Just ask this big-mouthed loser. Careful, though. When you look into the abyss, the abyss might just blab out your entire biography." I glared at the Matoran once more, flaring my eyebrows and rolling my eyes at the same time, something I'd seen him do about a billion times. "You can even watch over my shoulder if you feel like getting that close but seriously, I was not expecting this... or you." I gave the shifting Skakdi another once-over, making sure to keep a proper distance away. "Just let me do my dig and I'll get out. This place is giving me the hibbie-jibbies anyways." If Dor EVER finds out about this...

IC "Grand Executioner Rayuke. We appreciate your coming to see us. We were afraid that you would rather dismiss the truth and allow these conflicts to run their course - to leave us alone. Please, come upstairs where we can continue without prying ears." Wait... we? Of course. Identical twins. I yet had the pleasure to meet either of them... which meant that I could not identify which one was which when only presented with one. And as it seemed both their appearance AND voices were probably similar, as such things came with the territory. It irked me slightly to see them yanking my chain like this, but I dismissed the thought just as quickly. I was, as course, and Umbraline, and our two families were just a declaration away from Clanal war; it would make sense they would take ever precaution possible in this explosive atmosphere... especially after the death of their own mother. I would have to tread carefully while performing my station. My always-calm demeanor continued as I bowed respectfully, acknowledging their respect for privacy. With a wave of my hand I dismissed most of my escort; only a pair of bodyguards and my legal witness would follow. The rest would stay behind. I knew my protectors were cringing at that, but I was here to find out the truth, NOT to start another fight, and that needed to be conveyed. Lacing my fingers behind my back once again I began to follow up the grand staircase, my slow, thumping steps the only sound heard in the vast foyer.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. And he wasn't buying it. As if to accentuate the point, the shimmering, fizzling Skakdi took a few steps away from the vat - that terrible, awful-looking squid-like contraption - and moved straight towards me. He carried no weapon as he approached; out of the corner of my eye I could see what looked like a pair of super-sized golden scissors leaned against one of the walls; if that was his weapon it was both comical and ominous at the same time. The Rahkshi strangely made no moves; I was but slightly relieved, as hollow of a blessing as it was. As he approached me on those flat feet, I watched as he did a once over and took stock of my gear; no doubt sizing me up when he decided he was bored of my presence, those red, piercing eyes darting this way and that. Eventually he stopped just a few feet from me, his shifting body almost nauseating to watch. "Tell me who you are," came the commanded, the multifarious tones of that voice alien and deceptively calm. Dear Mata-Nui... This wasn't good. I had about five seconds come come up with something, anything, to keep this conversation going; and when I mean "conversation" I mean his interest, as in not deciding I'm Rahkshi snack considering how little he has spoken. But I couldn't just say my real name lest he know it. Granted, I had a trump card, my Kakama, but at this point it was a one-time use, and that only a way out of here. If I stayed and attempted to fight there was little chance of success; there were too many too powerful enemies present. But I just couldn't run either, I had something to do in here. I just... I grasped at straws. "I... c-can't tell you." I stammered, playing up the fear he no doubt sensed and was in fact no act, involuntarily taking a step back. "I was sent here to do a job, that's it. No questions, no explanations. I have something that belongs down here, something that has come into my possession, and I'm the only one with the knowledge and know-how to install it right, let alone at all. I-I'm here on orders, please don-" "ZAKTAN!" A name and a voice shot through the room, interrupting the proceedings. The name I did not recognize, but the voice I did. It was that Matoran! "Zaktan I know you're in here! Call off your pet! This is Ahkmou for karz sake, with a message from Echelon!" I could not believe my luck. At my most desperate moment, a lifeline was flung from the heavens. As much as the accustics in this place was used against me on my way in, my footsteps announcing my presence, this time it was a boon, allowing that little voice of his to be heard clearly all the way down here. Ahkmou, that snotty Echelon informant, had apparently followed me after all, and as he had described to me earlier, was unable to get past the Abettor. Granted, there were terrible dangers associated with this, like the fact that he knew who I really was along with some other pertinent information that would get me killed on the spot, but when I talked to him earlier... he was a true spy. He dealt with information. And he was greedy with it, considering how little he gave me when we chatted. I was willing to bet everything that if given half the opportunity he would help me convince this Skakdi for the chance at picking my brain. It was such a long shot I didn't care to calculate it out. But it was the only shot I had right now, if only for the fact he knew more about these people than I did. I took the desperate gamble. "What do you know, the little informant followed me here. Give a spy a bone, and he'll trail you like a lost puppy for more." I spoke through gritted teeth, absolutely faking the smile with no effort to hide it. "He can collaborate my story if he's allowed in. I swear I'm telling the truth if you just ask him... Zaktan." In the back of my head I could hear rolling dice.

Famous last words. You DO realize this is Nuju? He really likes to make this game hard for me... I swear he had a thesaurus and a dictionary sitting on his lap when he replied as the Abettor, that little snot-cheat... All I can say is this: he learned from the best Has the student surpassed one of the old great masters? *realizes that Nuju has full GM powers whereas I do not* Meh, probably

Wow, you guys, thank you OH SO MUCH for your overwhelming vote of support and confidence. Glad to know the player base is behind me one-hundred percent. (though if you forced me to be honest considering the odds I'd put five bucks on Zak myself ) Still, why can't we root for the underdog! Whoot whoot! ... Yeah, let's hope for a quick death verses some of the other things these guys are known for?

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. And as if the day couldn't get more bizarre... I stood on the middle of the steps, staring at this Piraka whose face... shifted... trying to analyze everything that had been thrown at me over the last thirty seconds. The interior of the Vault, filled with glorious, wondrous, and strange things. Masks, technology, eerie and darkness-oozing liquids, but NOT the one thing I was most concerned with. So far that had not yet been discovered. One Piraka who seemed to be running the show, even Vortixx showing deference, and eight Sons of Makuta standing guard like dogs on a leash, probably at the command of this individual who had just called me out. And that fact that he didn't drop me on sight meant that he must be also dealing with Dark Toa. My mind whirled at the implications... Echelon? Only made sense after what that Matoran was talking about... but most likely others as well. I had a small chance to buy some time while I figured out a way OUT of this mess I was quickly finding myself waist-deep in. "His Royal Crankiness upstairs." I said with a sour tone, jerking a thumb in the Abettor's direction, keeping a neutral to disgruntled tone. "Practically vaporized me on sight. If he's one of yours, may I suggest slightly less smuggy combativeness and a little more business professionalism? Don't know how you got such a machine, but it's pretty impressive. Excellent bouncer and welcoming committee." That last part I tossed in a dash of sarcasm for emphasis. I crossed my arms and slowly walked down the stairs, choosing to play it cool. As I did so I glanced about, taking in every inch of the room, forcing myself not to look at the Piraka. If I showed just how disgusted or afraid I was of him and his... pets, like any good-doer rightfully would, I was sure the jig was going to be up not a moment later. But I couldn't be fearless either. This guy was obviously in charge, and had power that was either greater to or at the minimum rivaled that of Echelon. I needed to show the right amount of... humility. As I hit the floor I contemplated those Rahkshi... that so screwed up almost any plan. Nine verses one in a straight-out shooting match, and those were odds that I was certain I would not win with. It was at this point I was glad my sword was sheathed, only the hilt showing. Clearly he did not recognize me on sight, but I didn't want to push it and have my signature Crystal Flamberge flailing about. This was possibly the most dangerous situation I had ever found myself in. The game is afoot Joske. Don't kill yourself. "So this is the so-called 'Inner Santcum' of the Vault. Interesting. Was all that stuff there, or did you decide to bring in your hoard when you moved in?" I nodded at the pile of technology and masks, my head quickly scoping out anything and everything I could identify. Even at a glace over there was enough here for a small army, and if properly equipped and trained with these objects... I was really beginning to have a bad feeling. That knot in my stomach grew a bit bigger. "So, I take it you're on of the Piraka that I have heard rumored to work with Echelon?" I ventured, finally staring directly into those leering red eyes, pulling up information during the conversation I had with that Matoran. It was a slight stretch and a gamble, but I had to start somewhere. I also made sure to leave a little bit of... deference in that last sentence, just enough to convey that I knew he was in charge. Whoever this was, I hoped his answer gave me something to work with lest this be a very short conversation. Emphasis on the very short.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. Oh, ha ha, look, it has a sense of humor. Of course YOU wouldn't, it would be stupid for the guardian of any place to know how the object inside they protected worked. I guess there was such a thing as choosing one's words TOO carefully... that, or it can't take subtle hints. Wait... Not-Toa Joske? The way it spoke was not lost to me, that slight undertone of almost-smugness. For being a soulless machine it seemed to have an attitude. What was next? Belittlement on my personal grooming? Speaking of, there were a lot of scratches I needed to buff out- Bring it on back buddy, you're still nowhere safe. I refocused on the Abettor, my mind a whirl as I thought of my next move. As clearly as it could cut through the meaning of one's words, it did lack the ability to understand subtlety. I couldn't be super-clever in my wording, even with that Rode active. I would simply have to be blunt with what I wanted. Without screwing up. Again. No pressure. I sighed. "Then I am seeking entrance into the Vault," I finally said, narrowing my eyes, "and requesting that the guardian of it grant me passage into it."

IC The ride was blessedly short. At the same time his summoned coach arrived, a messenger had sprinted up, giving him good news; Jasik and his sister Arsix, the new Toroshu of the Dastana clan, were still in the city... albeit besieged in their current residence by the angry masses. It would be a very short trip. But it would still give him time to think. Arsix and Jasik - now there was a pair. Having two children was unusual enough; having them be twins was considered a blessing. But one a girl and one a boy? At the time it was considered a sign of favor from Zuto-Nui, a validation of their rise to power amongst the most powerful of families. He had heard all the stories, listened to the tales... and it didn't take much to quickly realize they were an armful. They were the poster children of the first generation to grow up in the Dastana's sphere of recent influence; young, talented, powerful, the world at their fingertips, with a strong mother and, of course, money. But now it has seemed that the fates have literally dropped that world right into their unsuspecting laps. Quite roughly if you ask me. The coach came to a standstill, his wanderings interrupted. The door was opened, and a moment later I saw a young lieutenant step forward, her figure giving me a slight bow. "We are here, your Magistrate." Even before I stepped out I knew I was walking into a dragon's nest. The twins had been holed up in an estate within the Palace ground, unable to leave due to the massive amounts of attention they had been getting lately, proven simply my the masses crowded outside their front door. Order still reigned here in Sado, but it was a fragile one; it had almost become a police state due to the violence, but the Rora had not yet banned demonstrations. Yet. Judging by the size of this crowd, and the thoughts I easily picked up fueled by emotion, that might change sooner rather than later. It didn't take long for them to notice my presence. Even less for the cheering to start. Apparently they thought I was here finally administer justice for the murder of the Rora, that I had finally come to drag the murderer through the streets before his final execution. It sickened me. My guards and escorts surrounded me, pushing back the crowd, but to little avail. They wanted me, screaming, cheering, some booing. It was like a zoo, a mass of animals without restraint or decency. Is this what we have become? What we have fallen to? Even for someone like me it was hard to stay stoic, to remain calm even as the avalanche of thoughts and negative emotions washed upon my frame. Yet I stood firm. For the sake of Order and Honor I had to. I had to be above the din, above the petty words and strife. I was the Imperial Executioner - if I gave in to what they wanted, my word, my status, my very being would be worth less than the very stones I was walking on. And because I could do this, I had Power. For me it was like moving in slow motion as I raised my hands next to me, then with great effort swung them forward, the motion ending on one giant clap. A clap accentuated by my Willhammer discipline. A clap was now a minor shockwave as it moved out into the crowd. A ripple that did not knock anyone over or even harm them, but enough to momentarily stun them. The silence afterwards was almost as stunning as the clap. Taking in a deep breath I focus, and with one slow movement I opened my arms, before me a path through the mass of bodies appeared, the protesters moved back as if by an invisible hand. Exhaling slowly I simply nodded and began to walk calmly and passively forward, lacing my fingers behind my back and my entourage smartly followed. No-one said a word. No-one dared to. Within moments I reached the gates of the complex, the Dastana guards on the other side looking very wary if not a tad bit overwhelmed with all the commotion going on just outside their walls. Here I stopped. Waiting a full minute before speaking, giving them time to adjust to my massive presence... to adjust in more ways than one. It had gotten even quieter as the crowd waited to hear what I said, their baited breath almost palatable. Ignoring them I focus on the Captain of those defenders present, my deep rumbling voice speaking very simply. I was not a man of many words, and I usually waited to make sure I was ready to speak. "I have come... to speak with Jasik." That was it. For everyone's privacy and safety, that is ALL anyone needed to know right now. I prayed silently to Zuto-Nui that he would be willing to grant audience. Otherwise this was going to get tricky.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. Ever get that feeling that you have just dodged death? Like the old Dorian Shaddix has pinned you down, tied you up, pointed that "revolver" or whatever it was at your temple and squeezed the trigger, only to have at the last possible moment decided... "nah!"? I was really, REALLY getting tired of that feeling. What was now that, two, three? ... By all that is holy, that's four. Four times. Honestly one of these days I'm going to get in over my head and my luck is just going to run out. At least it's not today. I lowered my sword ever so slightly, feeling the tension in the air drop the the pressure after a storm. It was by no means gone, but I found that I could breathe again, at least for the moment. Wait, were my arms shaking? Looking down, I could see the slight tremor in them. Taking in a deep, scattered breath I forced them still, willing my nerves to calm down. Alright, relax, you bought yourself some breathing room. That's a Rode, or a least a mask that fits the description. Which means he's officially in lie-detector mode. As he pointed out you REALLY need to be more careful with your words Joske, though if my understanding of that mask is correct he will be able to understand better what I mean when I speak. I think. I stared down the eyeless holes of that hollow mask, taking one more breath before I spoke. It was like looking at a soulless statue, except that it could very easily decide your fate. From here on out I would need to be honest AND choose my words carefully. Licking my lips I managed a steady reply without a shake in my voice. "I have come... to learn how to open the Vault."

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. "TOA AS IN HERO!" I screamed. It had all happened so fast, both of us moving... and as I shouted there was but a momentary lull in the action as his fist was aimed at my chest, my sword held defensively as I stood panting. It took everything to fight off the panic that was quickly overwhelming me. Great Spirit that was fast. How did it... it can't... not ten seconds since I opened my mouth and- Focus Joske. You have one shot here. "Toa... as in hero." I repeated again, this time much more slowly as I forced my breathing. "Yes, you are right, I have no elemental power. Toa traditionally do have the forces of nature at their fingertips. But words have more than one meaning. I use the term... as a title." It took everything I had not to speak in a rush, face flush. "Toa means "hero" in the Matoran tongue; heroic warriors of great strength and power. The Toa's duty is to protect the Matoran and maintain peace in the universe. They tend to have the powers of the elements, but this is not always the case. I am a Toa in the sense that it is my duty to protect the Matorn, and while I may not have a force of nature, I DO have other powers, and I have seen other like myself who call themselves Toa but to not have elemental abilities. Being like your creators." I stared down this monstrosity, summoning what courage I could. "There is always more to something than it seems. If you can really sense knowledge and truth as it seems you can, then weigh my words."

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. Mildly terrifying... "I am... Toa Joske." I said simply, feeling that I should answer promptly, shading my eyes as I did so and doing everything I could to help them adjust quickly. Finally they did, and when I got my first good look at the machi- Mata-Nui. So THAT'S what the Abettor looks like! I had never seen anything so fascinating and awe-inspiring. Something in the back of my head told me I shouldn't look aggressive, and now that there was plenty of light I lowered my now lightless sword. I could tell it was designed with this purpose in mind, and I had a feeling I would need to tread carefully lest I irritate it. Because according to my previous conversation, that could happen.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. I opened my mouth to speak. This Matoran had he engaged in an informational chess match, something I was finding mildly thrilling. Teases about Echelon, strange powers, these "Piraka"... then I heard it. Or more correctly, them. It wasn't loud. Very faint, barely audible. But in the silence here of this cathedral chamber I could hear the sounds of slight clamoring, the noise of extreme distant voices coming form the tunnels. Impossible to tell which one, let alone how many, but it was there. Might be around the corner, might be ten minutes from now, but logic dictated the sounds I was hearing were those of those I ditched earlier, my pursuers. My time was up. Just when things were getting interesting too. I sudden stood erect and took a step downwards, which clearly startled the Matoran, not surprising considering how close we were. He immediately assumed a defensive stance, to which I only chuckled. "Sorry, but it seems I have tarried too long. Your assumption about me traveling alone? Mostly true. I had to dicth a couple people to get here alone, and it seems like they have almost caught up." As I spoke I pulled my disk launcher off my back, hooking some rope to a notch in the disk that was loaded. "Do not worry, we'll finish this conversation, if only for the fact that you want to know what the riddle means... and willing to pay in information about Echelon and these so called Piraka. Meantime there is a guardian I need meet." With that I pulled the trigger, a loud ka-chunk echoing off the walls at it fired, followed shortly by a solid thwack as the disk was imbedded into the rock above. I flicked another trigger and I was quickly hoisted up into the air, moving the rest of the way up the stairs to where the hole resided, launcher in one hand, sword in the other. It only took a moment to swing up and pull my disk out of the rock, and as I did so I chanced a look down... to see that Matoran. Staring at me. I couldn't quite read him, but something inside me said we'd meet again. Gathering my things I raised up my sword, the glow a little brighter here. Somewhere down this tunnel was this machine I kept hearing of, a robot guardian. Time to test my wits... and possibly dodging capabilities.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. Sorry to disappoint but I'm... not an eloquent speaker. I'm no philosopher. I know what I know, but that doesn't mean I can explain it. Every time I open my mouth I seem to promptly put my foot in it. Talking to me has always had the feeling of slowing me down, taking away from the time I need to do something. I've never been good at speaking, let alone debate something that I know or feel is right, unshakeable and unchangeable. You want a conversation without the looming threat of a far too sudden and violent end hanging over either of our heads; exposition of mortality and and the ends they produce can be excellent incentives to talk. I... just can't do that. Sure, I might start strong, but I just don't have the head for this sort of thing. I always end up making myself look foolish or at least a hot and bull-headed individual, that is if i don't insert foot first. I have a long track record of making people angry, losing friends, and otherwise alienating those around me when I DO speak, so why in karzahni would I want to engage in this sort of debate? I'm sorry Ahkmou, but I can't give you what you want. I am a doer, not a thinker. My strength has always laid in my ability to act, my willingness to move when others may hesitate. I have little fear of jumping first and looking later, shooting first and asking question later. I have a very simple viewpoint of the world, and I'm fine with that. Good, Evil, right, wrong, up, down, whatever. I know what I know, and what little doesn't fall under my worldview I simply take of faith. I don't need to debate, I don't need to discuss - you're not conflicted looking for answers, and I'm not looking to convert. There are others more qualified than me for that. Call me simple-minded, call me a naive fool, but that's just how I operate, and I'm willing to take both the strengths and weaknesses of that viewpoint. I just... just can't talk. I see the damage it does when I open my mouth. I'm... becoming to scared to do so, lest I make the situation any worse than it already is. I just... can't. ... But maybe I can listen. My eyes narrowed for a brief moment as this thought streaked through my mind, up until now my mask an unreadable black slate as I did my mental monologue. The longer I entertained this thought, more I saw the wisdom in that. As a young Matoran I had always been on the move, never slowing down for anyone or anything, driving the elders insane. Naturally I went into sports and athletics, playing to my strengths in order to minimize my weakness. Even becoming a Toa made my Kakama before powered, sealing my speedy fate and further pushing my weaknesses to the extreme. I never bothered to slow down... for anything. Or anyone. Except possibly Cael. Why? I pondered this for a moment. Yes, why? Why did the world slow down when I was around her? Obviously she was one of the few people I really cared about and outwardly showed affection to, but there had to be more than tha-of course. I listened around her. To her. The more I thought about it, the more the larger issue came into focus. I was always moving so fast, doing things at a break-neck speed that I often missed crucial details. I would seem callous and prudish to the outside observer when all I was doing was really being me. I wasn't paying attention. I wasn't paying attention to the world around me. I wasn't listening. Now it all made sense. I was already out of touch with reality at times before I was sent away, and now I've been gone for what, a year? Maybe more? Pulled out of the real world, living in Legend, a place where I can see the big picture and everything is cut-and-dry, where the world is simple and everything makes perfect sense. That's... not how the real world works. The real world is not so cut-and-dry simple. It's a lot more complicated. A lot more shades of grey. And if I didn't take the time to slow down and re-connect to reality, I would be doomed to failure. They... they were right. I WAS insane. I have been so out of touch I forgot what it was like to live here. Be here. I need to stop. I need to slow down. I don't need to be flying all over the map all the time. Case in point - right now. I looked up into the hole in the ceiling. The stairwell was proof that someone had gotten to the Vault on the other side first. There was nothing I could do about that, which left only two possibilities - either those before me broken in, learned it's secrets, and were now poised to lay the final blow in this conflict. Or they hadn't, and it was still there waiting for the right individual. Either option it didn't matter how fast I moved, or how quickly I got there; I was already too late, or it would be there waiting for me. I didn't need to run. Just like Cael. Waiting for me. I didn't need to run I need to listen. I withdrew my sword, and with a fluid motion I set it point-down on the stair above me. With a sigh I leaned my elbows on the metal T-frame of the hilt, using it to support my frame. To my mild surprise it started to sink slowly, eventually coming to a halt after several inches. That either attested to the sharpness of the blade or the to the shoddy construction of the stairs. Or both. Honestly little one I WOULD be afraid of my sword. I still am a little, and I wield it! I laced my fingers together, settling down on the hilt and getting comfortable. I had not spoken a word since he had asked me to be a good guest, and I for one was finally willing to oblige. He could read into my silence what he will, but right now I could feel he had information that was important, knowledge I would need probably in the near future. I will be quiet and listen. Tell me, Matoran, what is the state of evil on this island?

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. Curiouser and curiouser... "Thank you for the warning, I DO greatly appreciate it, but I'll take my chances." I said quietly, noting the Matoran's movements and how he moved to block me. "Besides, I'm retired now, and I plan on keeping it that way. You're not the only one who seems to know... things." I said that last word slowly. This Matroan was unlike any I had ever come across before, if not only for his apparent surplus of information. I had during my time away come to the realization that knowledge was power, that it could level the playing field in an instant, if not give the feeble-bodied a huge advantage. I could easily overpower him, we both knew it, but he had me hooked on this conversation. He was asking a lot of questions that I didn't care to answer, but it was clear he knew a lot of recent happenings, something I had a distinct lack of. Especially when he mentioned Echelon. And the growth of evil. Had things once again gone back to karzahni since my departure? Well, at least we understood each other and the cards were on the table. I would be as honest as I could with him in the spirit of civility as he mentioned, but as an agent of them I would have to be careful what I revealed. Oh the games we play. What fun! "Ok, I'll bite. To your first comment yes, I did give him a good thrashing with a hammer made out of solid light - a temporary gift and power from Mata-Nui so to speak. Alive? Well, the point was to never kill him but to take him out of commission for a while. To that end I succeeded quite well if it's taken him this long to recover and regroup, though after what you have described to me I am beginning to have second thoughts about my earlier choice. Paved the way to Makuta's defeat? Yes, I'll take credit for that too, but as you said it was the Maru who did the heavy lifting and laid the final blow. In the company of criminals, murderers, and cops you say? Guilty on all charges, except you forgot to add 'doctors, thugs, and assorted rif-raf' to that list." I grinned momentarily. Admitting all these things was actually refreshing. My tone wasn't prideful or haughty, but I guess I was say satisfied in well-earned accomplishments, if not also that they were some pretty fond memories. As quickly as the grin came it left however as I started to answer the remaining queries. "My disappearance is somewhat of a misconception... everyone seems to think that I vanished right after the battle. Technically that's true, but what really happened was that I was at the Massif for some time tending to my wounds, both visible and not-so-much. It was here, in his home city, that Stannis sought me out, and once my wounds were healed enough he... sent me away." Again I spoke the end of that sentence slowly; I was at the limit of how much I was willing to speak. "Where I went and what I did is my own business, as much as you and everyone else wants to know. There were reasons, not all perfect, but it was for a purpose. And you misunderstand - the world hasn't slipped into your hands; that implies that you lost it in the first place. That hasn't happened; not yet. All that has transpired is but a brief and well-deserved respite from villainy like the ones you follow. But it's coming. No one knows it yet, but its coming." I focused my gaze on Ahkmou, letting my piercing blue eyes aid in the talking. "Remember this, little one; you can win every battle, and yet still lose the war. One day you will understand your own statement regarding this great conflict, but until then you and your allies are fighting over trinkets rather than what is really important. You're fighting to win the battles; I'm fighting to win the war." I leveled my sword at him, but I refrained from any additional hostile act. "Now, would you mind telling me a bit about Echelon and his recent activities? Or do I get to attempt to move past you without injuring either of us?

IC Solemnly and steadily I walked the crystal halls of the Imperial Palace, allowing myself a moment to appreciate it's beauty. It had taken the finest crafters of antiquity hundreds of years to sculpt this massive city out of raw materials, and it took another army of skilled individuals to keep it looking pristine. Yet beneath the glittering shimmer metaphorical cracks were appearing, from the very top to the foundation as this latest round of vigilante violence and rioting cascaded across the Empire. History would show such unrest came about almost every generation, at best every other, but this one felt different. It was tarnishing the glitter I saw around me. As tall and large as I was, to everyone around me my stride looked like I moved in slow motion even though to me I was moving my normal pace. If you were close enough one could feel the slight thump of my footsteps as I approached, the aura of presence I had around me heralding my coming arrival. I was a juggernaut in every aspect of the word, subtly never my strong suit. Nor should it be. It was my Honor to carry out the duties and functions of Imperial Executioner, to which there was little secrets about it. I sought out truth amongst the illusions and meted out justice the dishonorable. As I walked I could hear the thoughts of those around me, in fact of many of those within the city itself. It was a continuous droning undertone in the Mental Plane, but I was used to it. But what I had noticed in recent days was the shift of the thoughts, a shift to cautiousness, to hostility, to fear. We were quickly running headlong into a civil war, blows already exchanged between the Umbralines and Dastanas. The Fursics were wisely staying out of it, though I wonder how long that would last. They were a shifty bunch and I never much liked nor trusted them, and I could not help but shake the feeling that the had a hand in this. This was not out of any hard evidence other tangible reasons, just gut feeling and experience; both of which I had plenty of. Still, I had other problems to worry about. Such as stemming this tide of violence. I could see that a part of the issue was my slow deliberations, the weighing of the evidence over the death of my sister. It had been... difficult, but so far I had managed to keep my feeling out of it. Still, that did cause me to take longer than usual, and due to that many decided to take matters into their own hands rather than waiting for me to reveal my findings. The time had come for me to go on the offensive. Upon reaching the divide that separated the personal living spaces from the more public area of the palace, I was promptly greeted by my personal guard. Silently I "humphed" in response. With the recent attempts on both my own and my niece's lives, so shortly after the death of the previous Rora, the security details for the Royal Family had doubled. No matter where I went now I had an entourage trailing behind me, which honestly was more of a hindrance to my work than a boon. But I did not make the rules; I only enforced them. Silently they formed before me, awaiting my pleasure. All of them Menti Warriors, the best the Yards could provide, my bodyguards and assistants. As much as I despised the concept of their presence, I had come to appreciate them as individuals, as well as their skills and abilities. Gazing at the formation before me, hands still clasped behind my back, I finally spoke. "Fetch me... a coach," my deep, rumbling voice said, echoing down the crystal halls. "I need to... pay a visit to Jasik." I narrowed my eyes. It was time to unearth the truth.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. Ah yes. Comedian, local guide, AND mind-reader. Wonderful! The sarcasm in my thoughts was almost audible, and only the seriousness of the situation before me kept me from devolving into snark. Doing everything I could not to roll my eyes, I took a moment to digest what the little Matoran just told me. "Ahkmou? Well, it's a pleasure to meet you... I guess?" I ventured slowly, keeping my glowing sword between us. "I was not expecting anyone this close to the Vault, let alone lounging around on a set of mysterious stairs reading a strange book... in pitch darkness." I smiled a humorless grin. "Now if you refer to 'Mr. We Do Not Eat upstairs' as the fabled guardian to the Vault, then yes, that is who I seek and where I am going. As for the other tidbits... thanks?" I cocked my head sideways, unsure how to approach or handle this new character. He seemed harmless enough and in fact helpful, if not in an odd way of explaining things. Still, if I could manage a way past the guardian I didn't exactly want witnesses. I smiled again, this time with a little more jocularity. "Soooo you think you can scoot over a bit? These stairs aren't exactly the widest or safest I've seen, and it will be hazardous for both of us of I tried to step over you as you are."

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. "You must be... Nimil." said the being, his eyes opening as he closed his journal with a solid thud. I suddenly noticed in the dim light that his fingers were missing, his hands no more than flippers, but in the movement I caught the flash of the hilt of a knife that peeked out from below his right armpit. I watched as he gave a low nod as if to approve of his own brilliant statement, the white tip of his Kanohi Kaukau bobbing comedically in the near dark. "Nimil as in Joske... Joske Nimil. Yes?" I felt my entire body just droop as I stood planted on the stairs. Why? I can't seem to go anywhere without bumping into someone who not only seemed to know me, but no matter where I went, even when trying to be alone, POOF, there was someone else! Because you're a former sports superstar and supposed hero of the Battle for Kini-Nui, you dolt! Shaddup. Mildly exasperated I raised my flamberge, the glowing sword giving me more light to see this individual who called me out by name. Yes, he was a Matoran, from Po-Wahi if the colors I was seeing were right. He was of about average height and lithe, kinda hard to see in this light, though I noticed it seemed as though his muscled were enhanced... he looked more athletic and strong for even his own sub-species. At first I thought it was some kind of steroids, but after another moment I deduced it was not the case; it was unlike anything I had ever seen, and if there was one thing I knew, it was athletic body shape and how to get it. Musing over this I continued to look him over, and to my complete surprise he had asymmetrically colored eyes - the left glacial blue, the right an interesting burnt orange. To further my surprise his colors were off now that my eyes were adjusting properly again, his skin black and gray with undertones of tan, slowly fading to a snowy white at the top of his Kaukau. Finally my gaze was drawn to his hands, all his fingers looking like they were burned off, leaving his hands like flippers. I... I had never seen anyone like him. It was like he was almost... unnatural? "Yessssss... ?" I finally answered, tilting my head sideways and speaking in more of a question to him than a direct answer. It never ceased to amaze me who I met and where I met them, though right now this was possibly the most inopportune time, this Matoran sitting lazily on a stone staircase that CLEARLY did not belong... gah! Nothing here made sense. Everything didn't make sense. I was really beginning to think everyone was right and that I WAS actually insane. Why did Stannis shove me through his mask again? Ah yes, probably Karma. We never really saw eye to eye anyway. One day Stannis, the joke will be on you. And on that day I will laugh like it was the last laugh the universe will ever hear. Snapping back to reality I focused my attention on the little one, wondering if he was going to tell me why he was reading a book in the dark in the most dangerous and lonely and isolated spot on the island. Ok, so maybe I am NOT the most insane person on the island. Just second-most.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. The pointed conversation was the break I had been looking for, maneuvering myself to the back of the trio. We were still fairly close together, not to mention I was the one with the lightstone, but now I was no longer in direct view of the two. Now is my chance. Slowly and silently I pulled out my iStone, taking one last look at the maps. Yes, not everything was correct, but those last two turnarounds were done on purpose; I had to make sure that the secret passages shown still existed, so I walked into supposedly "random" dead ends to confirm this. I had come closer than I had wanted to with company, but the distance to the Vault was still great enough I could do what I needed to and get out before they are anyone could find me again - I wasn't ready yet to compromise my mission with tag-alongs. It was Cael though who so pointedly reminded me that I indeed might need to, probably sooner than I wanted. Unity was one of the Three Virtues, something I needed to constantly remind myself. But not here, not now, not with this present company. As the Lesterin continued talking I started to slow my walk, seizing the opportunity. "I come down here little, let me say." With a faint glow I activated my mask, and with barely a whisper I was gone, like a ghost in the night, only a lightstone suspended in midair any proof that I was there. "Many memories come back, down in Mangaia. I find sometimes I must come down to reflect upon them." I ran backwards, retracing my steps to a certain fork, then took a hard left as I barreled towards a dead end, jumping to the floor and sliding feet-first to the wall, slipping underneath just barely as I passed through a disguised hole to the other side. Meanwhile the lightstone continued to fall, the shift of the light now perceptible to the others. "It's fine, me taking the front. I've walked these tunnels before, but I will admit I haven't been quite near the vault-" The last word caught in his throat as he turned his head looking back, seeing a free-falling lightstone with no bearer. Without breaking stride I zipped down a series of corridors to another apparent dead end, twisting a circular stone on a nearby wall. With a cascade of dust and rocks is lifted slowly, permitting me to resume my run unhindered, the wall grinding downwards behind me. The lightstone hit ground, bouncing off the cracked and uneven floor. Lantz, didn't much care for that guy. But that Lesterin, Arvin? Arvun? Yes, Arvun. I kinda liked him. Maybe one day I'll be able to explain what happened. I continues to zig zag down the halls at break-neck speed, hoping a random Rahkshi didn't decide to step out of its hole for a breath of fresh air... * * * After several minutes I slowed to a jog, at the end of my memory of the local layout the map provided. Besides, I was close enough now that I could- "Whoa!" I gasped in surprise as I almost lost my footing, a sudden slope in the tunnel downwards caused me to nearly lose my footing. I could feel in the darkness a better flow of air - I could only assume I had made it to the entrance of the lowest part of Kini-Nui: the Vault room. I waited a few moments for my voice to echo away, holding my breath as I did so, waiting to see if there was any response. If there were Rahkshi down here, some other animal, or something worse, I would hear a response... ... but nothing happened. Shakily I exhaled, partially relieved. At least there was nothing in this part of the chamber. Drawing out my sword I clasped it with both hands, concentrating hard. After a moment there was a flicker of light, and after another moment the sword began to glow softly, illuminating the space around me. Now that I could actually see, it was surprisingly sparse; amazingly, there was nothing in here save the main attraction. Raising the crystal flamberge with one hand I reverently approached the Vault door - a huge, impregnable doorway with no hinges, seams, or even a keyhole - situated here in the middle of the deepest levels of Mangaia. Pulling the glowing sword closer, which strangely wasn't as bright as I thought it should have been, I traced my fingers over the inscription, reading the infamous riddle with my own eyes for the first time. Across an endless ocean Beyond where minds can see My key lies in the open Where you will never be Beneath the brightest thunder Stand towers of the day The light may break asunder If night skies choose obey The red sign on black eyes Will lead you to your prize "Whoever wrote that is a Master Riddler." I muttered softly, shaking my head. As much as I wanted to study and marvel at this piece of stunning architecture I had other priorities, such as- "Hellooo, what's this?" As I had turned around something in the center of the room caught my eye, something that despite its apparent size I had not noticed earlier in the darkness. I was a rising pillar of stone and earth, surrounding it a steeply spiraling staircase twisting upwards like a screw from the floor. Raising my weapon and squinting I looked at the ceiling; the stair ended at a... no, in a... huh? A hole? It took a few seconds for all this information to compute, but I suddenly had a revelation. A secret entrance to the Vault? One that went up and over through the ceiling... I traced and invisible line across the ceiling to above the Vault door... then stopped. Wait; hidden opening secret entrance... and a staircase that leads to it!? I am not the first one to make it inside. This... this is not good. Gripping my weapon with a deathgrip I slowly began the ascent, the light of the weapon guiding my steps, wondering what I would find on the other side... OOC: take it awaaaayyyy Nuju!

Please remember guys that the GD topic is not the place to have personal conversations about individual characters (unless questions and explanations of staff characters and attached events). Such topics are what PM's are for

Ah yes, no sooner had you posted that did I FINALLY notice my mistake. LIFE LESSON #37: Remember kids, if you plan on busting out a large post between the hours of midnight and 2am, be prepared to have at least one hilarious error involved. The typos on both posts have been updated. I hope that little flub did not detract not distract from the individual I was trying to convey. And BTW the offer still stands.

Yes Most of the post is in the past tense, before all the current problems happened.

His Magistrate, Judicature of the Peace, Queen's Arm of Justice, His Royal Seeker of the Truth, may he forever bring honor through just punishment. Protector and Brother of the Rora, her Imperial Majesty, Presenting the Imperial Executioner, Menti Battlemaster of Clan Umbraline, Rayuke. Well kids, it's time to introduce a new player into the fold: The Imperial Executioner. His profile can be found here. He is a staff character played by me, hopefully adding some new elements to this otherwise crazy political climate. That said, I would request a favor: I would like an assistant for Rayuke. It's for two reasons: one, someone like him cannot possibly do everything his office requires (at least not in this current ever-shifting situation), and second (and more importantly) I do not have a full understanding one who is who and what is what in the Dasaka world! This individual would be helping both player and character come up to speed on recent events and help me sort out everything that has been going on. If you have a character that meets the description as a proper aide to this type of charrie, or if you wish to create one specifically for this purpose, please PM me with the character proposal and I will choose from there. I look forward to working with whomever this person(s) will be and playing with you all in the Kentoku Archipelago!

His Magistrate, Judicature of the Peace, Queen's Arm of Justice, His Royal Seeker of the Truth, may he forever bring honor through just punishment. Protector and Brother of the Rora, her Imperial Majesty, Presenting the Imperial Executioner, Menti Battlemaster of Clan Umbraline, Rayuke. (traditional arrival announcement spoken by crier during official and ceremonial gatherings) IC Music floated softly through the air, played by the lithe fingers of a talented musician upon plush seating. An open window allowed the fresh sea breeze to waft in, circulating around the room as it did, and as it was whisked away it took the sounds with it, the notes dissipating across the glittering skyline. The room was a heavily decorated and ordained masterpiece, sitting near the atop of the Imperial Residences, a glittering jewel in its own right. Art of all kinds adorned its walls, of paintings and sculptures and priceless artifacts. Shelves upon shelves of books lined what remained of the walls, literature masterpeices of bygone eras of endless enjoyment and continuous revelation. The furniture was surprisingly sparse, but what was there was of finest quality, prefect for repose and quiet reflection. Most of the remaining space was either reserved for workspaces or presentation podiums for various other words of art, particularly crystal sculptures, bonsai plants, and a surprising amount of origami animals. Clearly this was the room of a great artist, of a great companion of the arts. And in the center of it all stood one massive Dasaka. He stood over a small pedestal, eyes closed, looking as if lost in the music. He was extremely large, clearly more than a half-head taller than the tallest of Dasaka and bulky with muscle. His broad shoulders, rounded a little by the stress of too many years, were nevertheless imposing to behold; his hands, strong and rough by years of manual labor, seemed have a certain gentleness to them has they moved about the bonzai before them; his face, routinely stern-set, too rarely imparts the gift of its smile onto the world, seemed at the moment, in peace. Despite his size he looked very much at ease in his own body, and all who looked at him recognize in his relaxed stance and peak physicality the body of a warrior who has interestingly not devoted reckonable time to the ways of the elite. There was something about his quiet, powerful presence that had the effect of quieting those around him, easing tense situations wherever he may be. And this figure was arguably the most recognizable Dasaka in the entire Empire. Rayuke, the Imperial Executioner. Most would not think such a living abode would fit his vocation, but those that knew him well understood the apparent contradiction. This was his private space anyway, his secret abode, a place to get away from the pressures and nuances on his stature. Rarely however, was that the case. A barely audible knock could be heard over the soft music, a few moments later the head of a sevant poked her head cautiously in. "Your Magistrate? Your presence is required." There was no sound from the living statue, no acknowledgement of her presence. Understandably she looked a little skittish. "Your Magistrate?" She sounded a bit worried now, yet the music carried on as if nothing was amiss, the only movements were that of the musician's fingers and the barely perceptible meanderings of the massive hand bearing a far-to-small-for-its-size pruning scissors. "Master Rayuke?" *snip* There was a long exhale of breath as the living statue moved, opening his eyes to survey his work. Gently he padded the miniature tree, observing the slow changes to the plant under his patriarchal care and pleased with the result... but not the interruption. "Yes?" His voice was low and deep, like a distant rumbling of thunder of the waves crashing on a faraway shore. It rolled and echoed even in this perfectly acoustic room, yet was somehow pleasant on the ears. The female took a half-step in and cleared her throat. "They are expecting you, Your Magistrate." "Tell them I am on my way." With a simple wave he gestured her away, gingerly placing the scissors next to the plant. Without turning towards the musician he spoke quietly. "Thank you for your services." Picking up her instrument she bowed and left without a word, that simple acknowledgement worth more than a year's wages. It was only after she left did he let out a long sigh, the sound of air escaping from lungs almost three times larger than the average male's. With slow, deliberate steps he strode to his dresser, pulling out but one article of clothing: a purple robe, trimmed in yellow, adorned with glittering crystals and precious gems. A sign of his stature and member of the Umbralines, it was something to marvel at, yet he wore it only out of duty of his position. As he did everything. It was his Honor to serve, his Power that had kept the Peace, creating Order amongst the clans. That was, until the assassination of his sister, the late Rora Yusanora. With a solid click he clasped the robe around his neck, looking at himself in the perfectly-polished mirror. As he gazed upon himself his eyes narrowed, his mind wandering... * * * I am Rayuke of Clan Umbraline. Battlemaster. Imerial Executioner. I come from a large family; one brother, one sister, and myself, I being the youngest. At an early age I was marked as gifted, showing early signs of the Willhammer discipline as is per my clan. I even hinted at Mindarm, a double-disciple prodigy. But I had a flaw, something buried deep within me: anger. I was an emotional child, the youngest out three, and prone to random and extreme bursts of anger. The only one who could keep me in line was my older sister Yusanora, a kind and gentle soul, of which whom I loved. With her I felt at peace, able to keep my unruly emotions in check. But then one day in my youth at a party, a Dasaka noblewoman insulted the honor and stature of Yusanora, the First Daughter and Chojo to the Empire. The insult proved too much, too cutting, too callous to go unanswered. Not only had she insulted my sister, my beautiful, sweet, upright sister, but my family and myself as well. So in a fit of rage and righteous vengeance I did what needed to be done: I killed the noblewoman. Indeed, such ill-thought action would have most likely resulted in the same outcome time, but the fact that I had done so in my own accord and in anger was a slight to myself and a shame to my honor. All was not lost however, as my anger was at least justified, though my actions were not. So the Umbraline matriarch, my mother, saw fit to send me to work with the Dashi as punishment for my actions, where she hoped I might learn to cool my temper. The next day I said goodbye to my siblings and was stripped of all rank and honor. It was the greatest thing to have happened to me. I went away a boy - and came back a man. While there I was taught to be a Soulsword miner, channeling my raw psionic and emotional energies into more useful and productive ventures. I learned what it meant to do hard work, what it meant to have a job well done. I had become handy with a chisel, the hammer, the pick, and the shovel, all essential tools of the trade for miners. I learned to enjoy the simple pleasure in life, and what the common Dashi had, but lived for: honest work. It was in these years of repetition and physical labor that I not only became so very strong physically, but learned to find peace within myself, banishing the rage that had for so long consumed me. With it came a quiet spirit, a love for all things beautiful and simple, much like the people I now call friends and even to some extent family. But all things must come to an end. Many years passed, and one day I received word that had became the First Son of Clan Umbraline by proxy upon the death of next-eldest male, my brother and within a day I was ushered back home to Sado to assume the new duties. My return, however, was not greeting with happiness by all. There were still family of the noblewoman I had killed who had a grudge against me, and sought to prove that despite my time and distance away I was still unworthy to assume the required duties. Therefore, by tradition, I was tested. I stood before my accusers as they attempted to stir up feelings of anger within me, to force a show of emotion. To see an outburst of power that was so often the failing of my gender. I did not give it to them. Undeterred, they insulted me and my honor, hoping to reveal that anger I had been so well known for. They received none of it. Riled, they once again insulted my family. I gave them no satisfaction. Losing the situation they unleashed everything they had, even once again visiting those slights upon my sister, in an attempt to get me to budge. To snarl. To show any outward displays of anger or emotion. It was hard and difficult, but I stood like the crystal statues in the great halls. They gave me no quarter, but all I did was stand there quietly, eyes focused on the floor in a reserved, humble stance. I had learned my lessons well. I did not falter as a spoke quietly, refuting each and every point they did bring against me. Their ammunition exhausted, they gave up the assault, retreating quietly back to their seats. Upon this display of control my return was celebrated return, the rest of my clan marveling at my levelheadedness, and the Rora, who was now my sister, presented me with the greatest of all appointments: the duty of Imperial Executioner, Dispenser of Justice, Keeper of the Peace, and Protector of the Realms. As honorable as it was, however, it was a position I did not want. I had changed my ways, being one with the people. I had forsaken violence in favor of hard work, in beauty and art instead of destruction. In the end it was my very sister of whom I still loved who convinced me take it, for the very reasons I was rejecting it. In being humble, I would not view one people as better than another. In nonviolence I would seek peaceful solutions; in control I would not rush to punishment; in the art I would seek the beauty and honesty in those accused; and in my levelheadedness I would be fair. She convinced me, and with it I accepted because it was his duty not only to now my people, but to her as well as a trusted confidant and bodyguard. I was given the sword, I was given the mask, and to this day not one can bring any slight to my name. I am Rayuke of Clan Umbraline. Battlemaster. Imerial Executioner. Now I am needed. * * * With a flourish he turned, his cape swishing in the breeze, his long strides looking like slow motion as he strode across the room. The time for deliberations were over. Much had happened, and many crimes needing answered for it. It was time to start restoring Order to the Empire. Rayuke was coming. May dishonor beware.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. You're right; I don't. At least not here, if it can be helped." I shot back, my voice hard. The edge in my voice was surprisingly sharp, enough to freeze that smirk on Lantz face and show that I was quite serious. "I came down here to seek the Vault like you; that much we agree on. I am even willing to knock a few thug heads and happily dispatch any vile creature we encounter. I draw the line at warning hermits." I lowered my voice. "He is just doing what he feels is his duty; there is no rational reason to simply kill him for that when either diplomacy or restraining him would serve just as well. Let us be reasonable here and move along." Not to mention I'll try to stop you, I thought coldly.

IC Toa Joske Location: Kini-Nui Temple complex; interior Chapter One: Crystals, Temples, Secrets... oh my. "How much farther until the Vault?" I could sense the edge in his speech and Lantz voiced the question. I didn't blame him, considering we had gotten turned around twice. "Almost there." I conceded, taking one last look at my iStone before putting it away, noting the entrance I needed. "Really it's just down this hall. Straight shot. In fact, I think I can see a light way down ther-" "Go back, you two. This place is teeming with thugs and Rahkshi. Go back!" I was caught off-guard, frozen for just a spit second. He had come out of nowhere, blocking our path, looking like a slightly-crazed hermit, demanding we turn back. It took only another second for me to regain my composure. "Hello to you too. If the thugs and Rahkshi don't kill us, the heart attack from people like you will." came my none-too-happy reply as I raised my lightstone to get a better look at the individual. "The goons I can deal with; as for the animals that why I'm not traveling alone. As much as I appreciate the sound wisdom, and trust me, it is, I didn't come all the way down just to turn back. I appreciate the warning but I really must continue. Oh, almost forgot: who are you?"