Above the Festival ground level, complex scaffolding supporting temporary stairs, bridges and platforms have been built around the tallest and sturdiest of buildings along Main Street. Though not permanent by any means, ingenious construction and high quality materials makes these walkways strong enough to be safe for large amounts of spectators.

However, the most sought after vantage points for Festival goers would undoubtedly be flying vessels. What better way to enjoy the Festival of Flight than suspended in the air? Unfortunately, not every would be flier is skilled enough to pilot themselves, daring enough to try illusory flight, or rich enough to own a personal flying device, so many settle for the next best thing: airship rides!

A few organizations have 'generously offered' (more likely, had commissioned) their own flying vessels to provide aerial viewing for the Festival of Journeys, ranging from the simple to the luxurious. Each has their own separate take-off and landing platform, though only two of them seem to be setting up to take tickets.

Gale's Shipping and Transport (available) - Transport vessels of the Excellent Air Boat type. Simple, but does the trick, and open-air means a wider field of vision for the festivities! Cost: Resource 2 or <1 Wealth for one ride.

Anoura & Anoura, Merchant Princes (available) - Their canopied, aerodynamic vessels offer a smooth ride with less air noise, as well as the opportunity to shop an aerial market offering exotic goods from throughout Creation. Cost: Resource 3 or Wealth 1 for one ride (price of market goods not included.)

Theater Ship Harlequin (available) - Captain Brazen Emerald's luxurious, high class flying vessel, providing dining and entertainment for festival goers who want to ride in style. Cost: Resource 4 or Wealth 2 for ride, meal and entertainment, Resource 3 or Wealth 1 for just the ride.

Two more aerial platforms are reachable by provided shuttles or personal flight only. One of them, ornately decorated in onyx and silver, has the sign mysteriously covered in a black velvet cloth. The other platform is tiled in lapis and white marble, hosting the ubiquitous azure tents of the Emporium of Aerial Conveyance. Eager to beat the dawn, the elemental sponsors of the Festival Races are already starting to set up booths for last minute race signups, right alongside vendors selling personal flight artifacts. (OOC: Will provide signup sheet if needed.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:33, Tue 06 Oct 2009.

Rajha also beat the dawn, on account of being...well, addicted to the thought of flying. Vanileth definitely found himself another enthusiastic worshipper, at least for today. (After which point she probably won't be getting any good wings for...oh, years. Pity her.)

The shuttle arrived at the Emporium platform, dressed in her "flying clothes" (in other words, her usual bikini), where she bowed to the saleselemental before pulling her Pinions voucher out of her cleavage.

The cloud person that receives the voucher from Rajha seems in great spirits. "Off to an early start, my lady?" she says pleasantly. "Just a moment and I will bring your artifact."

She withdraws to a tent, where she speaks softly to someone, and some rustling and shifting of wares can be heard. Finally the elemental emerges with the ornate orichalcum shoulder plates, and smiles as she hands them over. "You've rented for a day, so you may return the artifact in the morning back at the Shopping Center. Please enjoy the Festival of Journeys, and have a safe flight!"

Lehanih floats over the courtyard on golden essence wings, her severely limited skill in navigation marked in the slow manner she moves in the hustle and bustle that is the final preparations for the festival.

She had purchased her pinions earlier, but the space around that particular stand still seemed likely to be the best place to start her day's adventure.

Pebbles arrives on foot in a new outfit for the race, dressed in aviator's goggles, a long scarf, and a black body stocking so tight it would be obscene in anybody who actually had a figure, but just makes Pebbles look like a tetherball pole.  Overall she wears her new black cloak.  Spotting Rajha she briefly takes on the shape of a hummingbird and heads over to her aerial position.

"Hey!  Haven't seen you in a few days Rajha!  I've been really busy training for the race." Pebbles brags as she meets her friend.

The shifting lunar catches Lehanih's attention, but as she's clearly greeting a friend, Lehanih wings off, to look at other parts of the festival.

As the sun continues to brighten the sky, golden rays glittering from beneath the edge of the floating city, more ships begin to arrive in the vicinity, landing on private platforms reserved ahead of time for expected guests.

Given the theme of the Festival, every Festival goer with the means arrives with their best airship to show off the strength of their local industry, their connections with such industry, or their bank account. Or, in some cases, all three. The result is awe-inspiring to all but the most jaded viewer, as near every honored guest flies in luxury, style and aerodynamic grace. Sunlight gleams off sleek frames of moonsilver and orichalcum, articulated wings of jade in every color of the rainbow, starmetal antennae that reach for the heavens. Those with less funds make up for it by painting and decorating their older or slower model ships with bright Festival colors and the finest of natural materials gleaned from forests, mines, or the deep sea.

The airships come from all directions of Creation, particularly the East and certain regions of the North, where Anthegenia's allies are strongest. Most of the major Eastern cities are represented: Deheleshen, gateway to the East; Denandsor, the fabulous city of artisans; Sperimin, with which Anthegenia shares a healthy rivalry; and Hollow, not to be left out, on a cornucopia ship exhibiting the finest crops from the East's ubiquitous RPCs. From Dragon King-ruled Rathess comes a ship grown organically from a tree that has gradually been coaxed to fly; from Sal-Maneth, a vessel that represents a precarious, artistic balance, far from practical but amazing to behold.

From the North, where hydraulic energy powers some of the most productive factory-cathedrals of Creation, airships from the finest shipyards soar the morning skies. Concentrating on aesthetic combined with efficiency, these ships are among the lightest and fastest in the aerial panoply, assembled in Avalle and Salk Fields and Fellara, from materials gathered in Diamond Hills and the Opal Crag Mountains. A ship from Sezakan, capital of the people of the air, sports an avian-winged design that may have inspired Anthegenia's own winged ships, and from Sepporil comes an excellent airboat overflowing with flowers, herbs and grains.

The South and West directions may be less represented, but far from unnoticeable. The rulers of High Nyunda, Virtuous Jacinth and Joyous Agile Bat, have arrived personally to greet their sister city, in a floating vessel powered by the heat of an elemental of flame coaxed from the Fire Mountains. From Luthe in the West comes the Zenith Queen Amayana, in a gorgeous airship of moonsilver, black jade and artful whorls of lapis and nacre. Chiaroscuro's ship is constructed entirely of artifact glass that - when struck by the light - glitters with every color of the sunset, and An-Teng attempts to outdo both Hollow and Sepporil with its own organic design teeming with flowering vines and crafted of the finest tropical woods.

And there are still more to come...

Rajha cheerily waves to Five White Pebbles. "Hey, Pebbles. I did a bit of training myself. Aren't Lunar forms out of bounds for the races, though?" she asked curiously.

She strapped her Pinions on her back, then stretched her arms. The Pinions weren't the kind of high-end equipment that would win the race for her, but at least she could do her best with them.

Pebbles raises one finger to make her point to Rajha.
"Only if the form can fly naturally, 'cause that's not artificial flight.  But once I get ahead there's no rule says I can't turn into a flying yeddim and be too wide for anybody to pass me.  Oh, there's Professor Uthar, I need to go encourage him, I've bet a lot of money on him beating Desus.  Excuse me Rajha."
Pebbles flaps down to the


OOC~ Sidereal alert: I'm placing this post before the discussion with Professor Marek Uthar that I wrote earlier, as Pebbles would otherwise have to either Ignore Rajha or Ignore the Professor's command to go help the Exalt.

Rajha shrugged, then took the shuttle back down to ground level. Why not fly herself? Well, she didn't want to burn too much Essence before the races.

Airships land upon aerial docks and people in lavish festival clothing step out, welcomed to the city by Anthegenia's winged servants in blue and white. Much like their vessels the guests themselves shimmer with wealth: precious gems and crystals sparkling at ears, throat and wrists, costumes of the finest fabrics (natural or bio-engineered), exotic flowers or feathers woven into impeccably styled hair, ceremonial armor, weapons and artifact wings of all types of magical material.

As the visitors are guided to ideal vantage points for the ceremony - or invited personally to the Aerial Pavilion - several more flying ships arrive. A small, sleek ship crafted of adamant and starmetal floats in, large enough to carry maybe a half dozen people, recognizable as the personal vessel of Tammiz Ushun. Signifier of Peaceful Victory, the Solar famous for building the Glorious Clouds raceway, arrives in a Manta-class flagship of orichalcum, blue and white jade. Among the most eye-catching are Desus' First Rule of Conquest, sporting a 30 yard long swan-shaped hull of pure orichalcum with feathers wrought in exquisite detail, and alongside it the Invierna, its sleek body and fluid, articulated wings crafted from a uniquely Thalian blend of moonsilver and pure unmelting ice.

The Invierna and the Conquest are not good friends, and spend an inordinate amount of time quarreling with one another over a landing space. The golden bird hovers over the black and silver platform apparently set aside for Anansi's ship, causing the Invierna (whose AI has been trained to recognize its 'perch') an inordinate amount of grief until the surprise arrival of a thousand-forged dragon screaming across the airspace pulls them both apart. The Invierna lands in its expected area while the Conquest smugly manages to find higher ground, and people wonder where the war beast came from.

In the meantime, though, Shogun Vanileth's vessel arrives on scene, a majestic orca-shaped carrier of blue jade and air-enchanted steel escorted by a squadron of warbirds. Built to be an assault vessel in times of war, its weapons have all been deactivated, and it flies flags and banners in their place.

Vanileth's carrier continues on its way toward the Aerial Pavilion at a more sedate pace. Most of the other airships have either found a place to land, or - for those capable of hovering - are floating within clear view of the main attractions.

The thousand-forged dragon from earlier settles on a perch opposite where the Shogun's ship approaches the Pavilion stage. The flying automaton lets out a mighty roar before begrudgingly settling down as High Priestess Laelia's prayer and hymns begins in earnest. The figure standing alongside it is a woman, and a Solar, if one judges by her shining winged armor and visored helmet.

Desus steps out from the First Rule of Conquest, heroically dashing in a white and golden cloak draped over the finest silken armor and orichalcum ornamentation, holding his swagger stick in one gloved hand and Lilith's slender waist in the other. Lord-Captain Anansi is alone but for his attendants, clad in a lustrous blue and black ensemble with moonsilver accents; he brushes the Invierna's icy beak reassuringly before shifting into the shape of a magpie, fluttering toward the Aerial Pavilion to meet his wife. Anansi is neither the first nor last to do so, as Desus, Lilith, and other special Exalted guests head to the Pavilion on artifact, sorcerous or shapeshifted wings to witness the ceremony in person, or greet the Princess Sophia and other important Anthegenians.

More civilians and visitors incapable of flight are starting to flock toward the airship ride platforms, to get a better view of the unique construction and decor of visiting ships, or an eagle-eye vantage point of the introduction ceremony. Fortuna Gale finds her transport vessels to be widely popular, considering the inexpensive cost, while the Anoura brothers draw Festival goers attracted by the idea of shopping for exotic goods and sampling Southern cuisine while viewing the festivities. Somewhere in the flurry of arriving airships, Brazen Emerald's magnificent open-air theater ship has landed as well, and his brightly, briefly garbed attendants start to accept payment for tickets.

Though a large amount of the Emporium's staff is staffing their official float on ground level, there's still plenty of cloud people keeping things running at their tents in the air.

"Last minute signups for the Races! Beginning in two hours, right after the ADF Demonstration!" a turbaned air elemental announces in a booming voice. "Test your mettle at multiple skill levels! Win the favor of Shogun Vanileth, or one of many fabulous prizes!"

Meanwhile, ticket sellers at the airship ride platforms beckon to Festival goers on the balconies, or floating up by the power of Mitsumi's magic. "Airship rides, affordable and safe! Get an eagle eye view of all the Festival attractions!" A couple of Gale's transports and one of Anoura's merchant ships are still docked and waiting for passengers. A handsome Southern man next to the latter calls out, "Shop, sightsee and relax aboard our skyships for an experience you won't soon forget!"

"Theater Ship Harlequin, soon to embark on a scenic flight above Anthegenia! Purchase our luxury ticket for included meal and theater performance!" hollers a lovely blonde in spangled harlequin tights, low-cut vest and jester hat, winking and jutting out her hip.

Not to be outdone, a female Emporium employee wearing a set of Phoenix Pinions appeals to the young Exalts in the crowd. "Rent a flying artifact for a day or even an hour, for a taste of true aerial freedom!"

The race signup booths are full of excitement now that Desus has come by to drop his name in the box and lingers to chat. He doesn't discriminate: he talks to the elementals at the booth, to other racers signing up, even to mortals who dare get close enough to ask for his autograph. (He signs them, too. With a smile.) Already there are moon-eyed girls and envious men gathering in floating groups, or whispering at balconies, wondering what vehicle he will be racing with, and why he's even bothering if he'll just win it all anyway!

Among the others that come to sign up is Atmadja Kigal-Usha, one of the kazei of the ADF - but an infantry commander, so not technically prohibited from the race. (Figures such as Iblis and Anansi, as airship pilots of Anthegenia, are prohibited. Much to their respective fan clubs' dismay.) The flame-haired commander signs up for the Medium course, just for kicks! After all, nothing prevented a Terrestrial from testing her skill. She has a few of her soldiers around her, grinning and patting her back. "Go get'em!" they encourage her, while she chuckles and glances up into the sky. "Can't let Iblis have all the fun..."

At the same time, a woman with tanned skin, tawny golden brown hair and leather cords tying up her hair comes by to sign up for the Expert race, giving her name as "Idiori". No one has ever seen her before, though her accent and sun-bronzed skin give the impression of a Southerner. She dresses in practical clothes, snug leather breeches and a sleeveless top. She also appears young to be racing against ancient Celestials... but with Celestial lifespans it's difficult to tell.

Desus exchanges a few words with the Southern woman, perhaps some expression of luck or some such, but she just tosses her hair behind her shoulder and shrugs. "Oh, am I supposed to know you?"

Amidst gasps of shock and derision, Desus' answer is a simple grin. "You will."

Edged Blossom lands with Rajha by the signup booth. Rather than waste more Essence reconverting her Windblade, she just lets it hover close by while she asks for a form. Sizing up some of the competition, she mutters, "Some Terrestrial, and who else... hey! I didn't know you were in the running, too." Edged Blossom just caught Rajha's name in the Medium listing, and glances with surprise at the woman accompanying her.

Nearby is Desus, still entertaining the crowds with his glorious presence. "Oh gods, isn't that Desus, hero of... a million different things? I swear, the history books have a whole section just for him. Several volumes, if you get the unabridged version." The pained look on her face shows she wasn't all that happy having to study every page.

"Well, he's probably in the Expert race, though. No skin off my teeth!" Blossom shrugs, and starts filling out the form.

Pebbles had meant to go meet the lost Exalt earlier, really, but had been distracted by her humanitarian impulses, and helped out a stray Terrestrial who was clearly suffering from the weight of a too-heavy purse and had been delayed for a few minutes

"Hey Rajha, who's your friend?" Pebbles asks as she alights by the Kiosk.  Not bothering for an answer she grabs the other girl's hand and pumps it vigorously.  "I'm Five White Pebbles, a Waning Moon Lunar."

"Oh, hi!" The auburn-haired young woman whose hand Five White Pebbles just shook smiles back at her. Once she's deposited her completed form at the booth, she introduces herself properly.

"I'm Edged Blossom, a Dawn Caste. Ruler of Deheleshen, guiding hand of her Prefecture, and so on and so forth, but whatever." Pebbles will notice that Blossom looks quite well-off financially, though there's a pair of Terrestrial bodyguards that have just winged up from the ground level to join her. "Oh, you're a Steward! Does the name Fair Xiulan sound familiar to you at all? Or are you good at finding people? I'm... really needing to look for her."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:56, Sat 10 Oct 2009.

"Hmm, I don't know the name offhand." Pebbles answers thoughtfully.  "I'm not exactly an investigator but I know a few people who are."  Pebbles considers more, unfortunately looking at the issue through her own skewed view of the universe as she weighs potential profits and expenses.
"What does this person look like? And how much money does she owe you?  Oh, and do you expect that she'll need some roughing up?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:47, Sun 11 Oct 2009.

"Ack No no! No roughing up!" Edged Blossom looks positively scandalized, though at the same time oddly fascinated by the red-haired Lunar. Suddenly flustered, she waves her hands around, while the Terrestrial guards scowl at Pebbles slightly. "And I don't owe her money, it's not like that at all."

When Pebbles mentions pictures, her eyes light up. "OH. Right. I do have a picture, don't I?" She draws out her amulet, which of course sports a sparkling hearthstone setting, but also doubles out a locket. The auburn-haired Dawn Caste pops it open. "Here."

Pebbles and Rajha will see a very lifelike depiction of a woman of fair skin and blue eyes, with orchids in her dark hair and wearing an elegantly painted robe of white, gold and pale green. "She is... was... a dancer and an orator, she was very crafty with words. When I was called Yellow Terror Dragon --" an odd name, given that Blossom doesn't look much like a terror with her relatively small stature "-- she was the beautiful face of Deheleshen, and Dragon was the stalwart warrior, though both of them could fight. But when I, er, he died, Xiulan disappeared, so I and my mentor Vikram White Crane are looking for her..." She trails off, staring at Pebbles as if hoping dearly it sounds familiar.

Dianora has long since made her way up via lift to a private platform on one of the highest rooftops in the area, where she and the flashily dressed (in velvet and innumerable orichalcum baubles) Signifier of Peaceful Victory share a bottle of champagne and chat about various things of a financial nature, and certain aspects of trade not spoken aloud of in respectable circles. Thus their conversation appears to be rather intimate on the outside, though they do not share more than chaste kisses and whispered words.

Her assistants, meanwhile, are busy writing notes, keeping records, or monitoring numbers via Resplendent Personal Assistant. Others come and go from the platform, and are on hand to accept notes and jade coin from discreet visitors, or - for those with the power and means - a hard mote for instant transfers. A shrewd eye would assume the betting pool for the races is largely in Dianora's control, though she is negotiating something significant with Signifier as well, one of the largest names in aerial racing in the Blessed Isle...

The updated list for the races goes up on a large liquid blue jade and moonsilver monitor set up at the Emporium of Aerial Conveyance, bright and large enough to be read from afar. "Races will begin after the ADF Demonstration, in one hour!" calls out the cloud people manning the signup booth.

Basic
(OOC: won't be played out as no PCs signed up for it)

Medium
Atmadja Kigal-Usha
Edged Blossom
Goldfinch Altair
Five White Pebbles
Rajha

Expert
Desus
Idiori
Marek Uthar
Wave Crashing Against the Rocks
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:38, Mon 12 Oct 2009.

"Hmm, this picture is very familiar somehow.  But I'm sure I've never seen this person before.  Perhaps I've met some of her descendants, or saw a reincarnation of her and that's tickling my memory." Pebbles decides, pulling a small camera out of her pocket.  She snaps off a copy of the locket.  "I'll put the word out to hunt for this person, or the rest of that story, but there's no telling if anybody else has heard it."

"Well, I guess that's good enough," says Edged Blossom to Pebbles, feeling slightly relieved someone is taking interest in her story. "Thanks. I suppose I should try asking over in the Pavilion, but I don't know... all those people look kinda..." She peers at Desus out of the corner of her eye, then returns her attention to Pebbles and Rajha.

"I mean, not that I'm scared or anything." The young Dawn puffs up her chest. She does look like she can use that daiklave of hers, at least. "It's just kinda out of my league, I guess? And Crane is always telling me to be careful with my elders."

"So I guess we're all competing in the race. Good luck! And, er, no hard feelings however it turns out?"

"Naw, there's nothing wrong with a good healthy competition.  Good luck to you too." Pebbles answers.  "I'll be interested in seeing how that flying board works for you, I almost got one before I decided on the wings I'm using instead."

On cue with the announcements about the demonstration, the loud roar of powerful engines can be heard from the launch area on the ground, amplifying as if coming towards the crowds at great speed. The sound raises for a moment longer, and finally, its source shows itself - a formation of Artimisia class fighters, flying in perfect diamond formation, passes majestically above the Festival grounds. Even at this speed, it is easy to admire the sleek and smooth design of the Anthegenian fighters, their graceful shapes soaring through the skies with agility and poise.

Six fighters make up the formation, and those in the crowd familiar with the ADF at all immediately recognize Anthegenian's Ace Team: Blackjack Squadron, led by ADF Air Marshall Iblis Sanguinus. Some people in the crowd seem to point out, however, that the Blackjacks number five, not six, and thus the identity of the mysterious 'sixth wing' that takes up the rear of the formation leads to some excited speculation among enthusiasts and fans of the team.

The squadron warms up the crowd with a few simply turns above the festival grounds, circling the area a few times like great birds of prey to the cheering of the attendance. And it is then, after one last sharp turn that brings the diamond formation flying straight towards Princess Sophia's platform, that the airshow truly begins.

Raising high into the air, the diamond splits into two lines of three at breakneck speed, before spiraling towards the ground in a dizzying display of piloting skills. As they do so, the essence engines' exhausts let out streams of crimson colored dust, tracing graceful lines against the pale blue sky. In perfect synchronicity, the six planes start to roll while diving towards the ground, giving the red trails following them the appearance of twirling ribbons falling beautifully towards the earth.

Before the planes reach too close to the ground, they pull back up as one sharply, arranging in an inverted 'V' formation surrounding Air Marshall Sanguinus before passing the festival grounds and looping around, returning quickly to their show space. As they do so, the squadron tightens their formation to the point where the crafts are almost touching one another, to gasps and excited squeals from the attendance. Breaking away to a safer distance, the pilots then engage in an impressive game of musical chairs, changing places withing the formation without breaking its form or structure - sometimes, the crafts seem to pass mere inches from one another, and yet the routine seems so well-oiled and practiced that there is not even a speck of hesitation in their maneuvers.

For the coming minutes, the ships raise and fall and dance into the air, coloring the festival skies in multiple colors and hues, tracing figures as if painting with the immense azure as their canvas. Rolling and breaking and spiraling at dizzying speeds, the Artimisia squadron seem to push the limits of their very crafts, veritable sky acrobats expressing the true freedom and incomparable euphoria that flight brings.

To finish their breathtaking demonstrations, the squadron breaks into two groups again, flying apart from one another while releasing deep red smoke into the air - tracing an immense, triumphant 'V' above the festival grounds. Those familiar with Anthegeninan history would recognize this display as the same one the ADF showcased centuries ago, on the day Ark Primavera was officially decommissioned after its last successful campaign, and the founders ordered their pilots to trace the great 'V' of Victory for all to see - the moment to venerable Ark ceased to be a military ship, and became the city of Anthegenia.

The moment bears particular meaning for those who followed Iblis' career as well: he was part of the original formation on that blessed day, the youngest member of Anthegenia's Ace Squadron flying rear position among the ADF's greatest. It holds a certain nostalgic feeling, as if the once rookie turned Air Marshall leads his squadron in a heartfelt tribute to those who have come and gone in service above Anthegenian skies.

With the majestic 'V' still in the skies, the Artimisia tumble downwards, and then shift their form as one - the graceful ships changing shape into their sleek warstrider forms. Slowing their descent while standing shoulder to shoulder, the warstrider team stops in front of Sophia's platform where Vanileth stays - and then, as one, execute one final, heartfelt and respectful salute for the God that makes their presence possible.

The upper levels and airspace of the Festival grounds are full to bursting. Balconies are filled with cheering crowds and squealing groups of fans numbering in the thousands, impressed by the air show and charged with anticipation for the upcoming Races.

"WE LOVE YOU IBLIS~!" shouts members of Marshal's fan club, many who've abandoned their booth for a chance to see Blackjack Squadron from above, wearing their own fan-made replicas of the ADF Air Force uniform. Kazei Atmadja, passing by the fans in her snug crimson-and-orange flight suit, remarks on their shouts of devotion with a smirk: "Hey, you can look but you can't touch."

Meanwhile, clouds of Anansi and Desus fangirls, still floating by the power of Mitsumi's spell, scramble for space on platforms and bridges, joining the rush toward the best views of the upcoming competition.

"Look, look," says Anansi Club President Mira, still bounding with energy and enthusiasm. "I think I got a good view of him again! The Lord-Captain's returning to the Invierna!" She pulls her friends toward the edges of the flying spell's effect, straining to get a better glimpse. "I-I'm getting ill..." mumbles a faintly green Elmira, and Myra says, "Let's just land. We've still got our tickets for Gale's Transport, remember??"

"Good idea, Myra!" Mira enthuses, and once again poor Elmira and Myra find themselves all but dragged along to the nearest skybridge. The only airship transport still taking tickets has a line that winds through three more bridges... but Mira is not one to be discouraged.

Next to the floating Emporium tents, an air elemental announcer starts to give out some preliminary information about the races, his voice amplified to cut through the chatter of the crowds. Apparently the three levels of races will commence simultaneously. The Medium race will be held in midair, and require navigating a course including rings and various obstacles for a greater level of complexity. The Expert Race course will actually be held below Anthegenia, in a series of treacherous canyons reserved for this very event, challenged by strict altitude guidelines and a higher level of danger from maneuvering tight tunnels, sharp turns and 'other surprises'.

As the excitement for the aerial demonstration starts to die down, the race contestants are called to arrive with their flight artifact to their respective starting platforms, labeled by difficulty.

<From the Pavilion>

Mattel, being the awseome lunar he is, leaped on a balcony from the platform. From there he jumped to a bridge suspended by whatever means, then to another balcony, and then a passing aircraft. He repeated this process until he noticed his newest friends. Taking the steps and measures to assure he was on a bridge that connected to the levitating platform the fan club had found themseves on.

Finding himself in the mix of shouting fans of festival, Mattel used what he could to remain hidden from the fan club as he shifted into his human form. Making his way from the bridge to the platform he sqeezed in and with a wave and a smile he looked at them all.

"Hi Mira and everyone else." Flashing his most dashing smile he continued. "The view from here is great. I'm so glad I came out. This is so awesome." And just like that... he was one of them. "GO LORD CAPTAIN! Kick ass!"

Breathing hard, Wave felt a surge of elation at having pulled off the display without a hitch. Iblis for all his bluff was an incredibly dedicated teacher and when it came to formations she found herself gaining a blossoming respect for the man. Especially when a single misstep would have had her craft ploughing into another at speeds enough to turn both into essence infused fireballs of burning metal. Something that probably even she couldn't have survived, or at least in any state to get to her race.

Speaking of which, she was needed already and didn't have time to stow the craft completely away or wait to be detached from the Warstriders straps with gentle care. As they hold the salute she flicks open the communications.

"I've got a race to attend all, but it was a pleasure. I'll be sure to return for celebrations after and I'll try make up my absence with a few extras and finally giving out a new name. Wish me luck, I may well need it." Flexing her muscles she finishes the salute and turns with the rest to clear the platform and return to the hangars, but to the surprise of a fair few she breaks formation once people start to get ready to watch the races landing with a stamp on one of the platforms held in spare, only a few people who had flight artifacts enjoying the free space on it. Wriggling out of the straps she releases the locks on the Warstriders faceplate and has it slowly open, gripping the edge to slide out and stand on Artimisia's shoulder.

"Keep people off it" she says to some of the guards watching the crowds, her flight suit shimmering and de-tangling into a crimson and orange outfit made entirely of shifting, long bands of pure essence managing to conceal as well as a full length dress but in a mesmerising display. Keeping the colours only seemed a fair repayment for causing them a little hassle and it'd let people finally get a look at the sixth. A deep breath and her crystalline wings spread out from underneath the shifting patterns, the glowing golden shards illuminating her with a halo of light and powering her off into the sky. Darting towards the starting blocks of the Expert Race she silently prayed for the fortitude to make it through the race, the competition was going to be fierce and the scales biased against her but victory had been snatched from far more dire a disadvantage. She could do it, if she only had the courage to see it through.

Landing on the Expert platform ablaze with essence, you'd have had to be blind to miss her the wings curling around her and then unfurling up, ready to send her into a pounce. The Fury of the Tides the Daiklaive on her back that never left her, rang out with a soft note of anticipation sensing that a battle was soon near and eager to finally be put to use in something resembling a challenge. She couldn't even think of losing right now, shielding her will in self confidence and staring out down the start of the track towards the tunnels below.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:18, Wed 14 Oct 2009.

"Omigosh Mattel! You made it back to us!" gasps Mira when Mattel appears seemingly out of nowhere. She joins in the renewed cheering with the other Anansi fangirls(and guys) when the Lord-Captain and a small group of Exalts fly out to meet his famous ship.

There's ooohs and ahhhs all over, not just on their bridge but all throughout the upper levels, as celebrants get a closer look at some of the best airships in the Realm and beyond, taking off again to position themselves on the outskirts of the race tracks. It's more complicated than it looks on the outside, as signal towers and communications officers (or, in the most pricey models, advanced AIs) coordinate ship movement so as to avoid any unfortunate collisions.

Mira eagerly pulls Mattel into the line between herself and Myra, ignoring the resulting protests. "We're gonna try to get into the last public airship taking off. Not sure we'll have much luck though." She sighs wistfully at the glittering shape of the Invierna. "I wish I could afford just one flight with the Lord-Captain..."

A nearby Desus fan with long brown hair scoffs, "Who cares about him? He's not even in the races. Lord Desus would wipe the floor with him, anyways!"

"Oh yeah? Care to say that to my face?" Mira challenges, elbowing Mattel to join in.

Elmira hangs on to the railing trying to ignore her fear of heights. "Who's he with, who's the Lord-Captain with?" she asks anxiously, while Myra fiddles with a pair of binocular lenses. "Ooooo, over there's where the contestants are gathering!" She points at where Wave has just alighted onto the Expert platform, then focuses on Anansi's group. "Well Elmy, I don't know who all of them are, but that's the Eminent Weaver, Thalia. And there's another one with a parasol... wait I know this one... Lady Peregrine Altair!"

"Aw... no! L-Let me see!" Elmira's request is complicated by the fact she has to hold on with only ONE hand to use the binoculars. That and the line for the last airship is starting to shove on. "Get moving!!" shouts a curt voice at the end of the line.

"You honor us, Shogun." Comes Iblis' voice, coming out through the Artimisia's voice amplifier system, while the warstrider executes a smooth bow for Vanileth. "But I'm real shy, you know? Besides, it's all the better part of showmanship - I'm sure it wouldn't look as dazzling if people saw it all the time. Gotta keep our cards close to our chest, right? And then, when it's time, we'll just show people just how well Anthegenian Airmen can fly."

The Firebrand straightens itself once more, and resumes its salute before pulling back from the platform. "I'm honored and flattered by the praise though, Shogun Vanileth. I'm doing what I'm doing because of you, so you can always count on my support and prayers. I might not show up much, but you'll certainly keep hearing from me." And with that last statement, the squadron starts to pull back, Iblis breaking out of his salute to indicate to the rest of the Blackjack to break off and head back to base. "Thanks a lot, guys. You gave it your all, and I can't hope for a better team. You too, Sergeant... And good luck in the race." Iblis says as Wave breaks away, and has the Firebrand make a short, loose salute for her departure.

With that last statement, Blackjack Squadron breaks formation, the warstriders changing back to their warbird forms to fly back towards the base. Iblis does not yet back home, however - instead, he flies the Firebrand right next to the area where his supporters have gathered, coming out of the ship to personally thank the dedicated fans. Removing his helmet, the Air Marshall shakes hands and speaks greetings with a warm smile on his lips, looking grateful for the supporters' presence.

The contestants start convening at their respective locations.

Expert Race

Marek is already there with his orichalcum warstrider, Wings of Gold. He seems fully focused on giving the glorious machine a last minute tuneup, not so much as acknowledging Wave's arrival.

A second racer lands on the platform next to Wave, flying in without fanfare on a moonsilver Windblade forged into the shape of an eagle with wings outstretched. She is obviously female, with golden brown hair and hawklike eyes, wearing a sleeveless shirt in an olive green shade and leather breeches just snug enough to show off her toned legs. A scarf is carefully wrapped around her nose, mouth and neck to protect her from the wind, and a fleece-lined flight jacket is wrapped around her hips by the sleeves.

Desus is not yet present, but the man's reputation precedes him. Whole crowds wait with bated breath for him to reemerge from the First Rule of Conquest, revealing what fabulous artifact he will ride for the competition.

Medium Race

"Race you there!" Edged Blossom suddenly blurts out Rajha and Pebbles, her would-be friends and now competitors. She leaps onto her own Windblade (daiklave-converted, like any good thrillseeking Dawn) and zooms up to the platform for the medium-level racers.

The auburn-hair's expression is the epitome of delight. This will be fun! And for once she can get away from those naggy, nitpicky Terrestrial aides, too. After all, they're not competing, so they're not allowed on the platform.

As for Atmadja, her arrival is momentarily delayed by Iblis arriving personally to greet his fans...

---

OOC: Besides the other NPCs we need Goldfinch, Pebbles and Rajha. (edit-I wrote Rana there, TOTALLY by accident) Marek is away til the weekend but I will still have to start the races by 20-ish hours from now.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:35, Thu 15 Oct 2009.

The young woman with hair like a golden eagle's feathers lowers her scarf briefly.

"Hello there," she greets Wave informally, with a recognizable Southern accent. "You're quite the sight, Lady Wave. Unless you're Professor Uthar, though I have my doubts..." She glances at the sorcerer-engineer so engrossed in his warstrider. Then she unties the fleece-lined flight jacket wrapped around her hips by the sleeves, donning it unhurriedly. "Though I hope those pretty crystals give you more of an advantage than beauty, given our competition."

Once the Southerner has her jacket buckled on, leather gloves pulled on and moonsilver goggles propped atop her head, she extends her hand to Wave. Facing her fully, Wave can see that her eyes are a light hazel brown with strikingly dark pupils.

"I'm Idiori of Tamar-Kas. Chosen of Luna and Silver Strategist. I'll be enrolling at the Academy fairly soon, so we'll see a great deal of each other, one way or another." Idiori's smile is guileless and genuine, and her handshake (if accepted) confident and strong.

"Am I late?" Looking vaguely... ruffled, his Windblade banks to a stop next to the waiting Dawn, hovering in place above the platform. "Ah... Goldfinch Altair, son of Peregrine, who's currently floating somewhere above me and probably picking up every word I say." He'd wave, but a tiny bit of him just didn't want to offer that possible satisfaction. Ahhh, paranoia.

He grinned. It was... oddly tired. "Admittedly, though, it looks like the other racers are even later than me. Any idea where they are?"

Edged Blossom waves at the other Solar energetically, still balancing on her own Windblade in anticipation of the race. "Hi, Goldfinch. I'm Edged Blossom of Deheleshen. Oh, you're Peregrine Altair's son? I ... I think I'm supposed to be surprised or something, but I forget why," she admits, sheepish but unapologetic.

"Oh the others? I left 'em behind down there." the rather athletic looking young woman gestures vaguely in the direction she came from. "I think there's one more, I have no idea who or where she is... she's the only Terrestrial on the list, though." A shrug shows she's not that concerned.

Unlike certain other Fan Clubs, Iblis' fans seem to have more of a geek factor than a squealing fangirl factor. Many of them hold up their custom painted Artimisia models (or for the true geek, various Artimisia predecessors dating from centuries ago) and wearing AADF insignia, caps or uniforms (not official ones, but hand-made and in some cases very close to real). Many of them, he even knows by name.

The boldest fans congratulate him for a job well done, and him advice and opinion on various airship related topics, the current requirements for entering the Anthegenian Air Defense Force, his judgment of one of their military-themed handicrafts, and so on.

Newer fans are still quite star-struck, though. They give him handkerchiefs and flight manuals and even articles of clothing to sign. Some blow him shy kisses, and others shake his hand looking awestruck in the 'I'll never wash this hand again' fashion.

"Thank you for inspiring us," they say. "Thank you for taking the time." Some pass on pictures to him of their families, of ancestors who were pilots. For these people, meeting him is an emotional time. Iblis has seen many generations of mortal fans become pilots themselves, have families, children... and pass on. He's even seen a few Terrestrial generations by now. His fans may be underdogs, but they are extremely loyal due to the personal attention he gives. They also span a wider range of ages, from children to retired mortal men.

Atmadja, caught between rushing over to meet Iblis herself, and the crowd that suddenly surges to surround him, manages to snag a spot at the Air Marshal's side.

"Well, you're popular aren't you," the Fire Aspect remarks, smiling up at Iblis. Honestly she's quite humbled and at times surprised by some of the homages from the 'true fans'. It's a little bit awkward being stuck in the middle of it, but she mostly thinks it's cute. "I suppose I should say 'sir', but I'm about to race, and I'd rather have a kiss than a salute. A little bit of luck is worth the scandal!"

She gives some of the lovestruck but disappointed fans in the vicinity a look that says, none for you! Hey, she had to keep some of him to herself.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:26, Thu 15 Oct 2009.

"Are... are you, now?" Blink. "Any rumours of my death are... probably exaggerated. I hope. Are you somehow familiar with my mother?" Not that he'd be surprised, per se. Peregrine knew everything and everyone. "I'd be surprised if you were secretly my long-lost sister, but...  not much else will, otherwise. Unless you're my niece." Ha. And entirely possible, too.

"Truth be told, this'll be my first time taking part in this sort of thing, and I'm almost feeling a little nervous." Grin. Sure, he was pretty familiar with horses, but they generally stayed on the ground. Up and down had always been limited to "under that branch" or "over that ditch", not "over that canyon" and "over that tree." Or mountain. "One gets the feeling that crashing here will be a lot more painful then just falling off a horse."

Pebbles flaps to a stop nearby.
"Looks like you beat me to the starting line.  I guess that means it'll be my turn in the actual race, right?" she suggests coyly.

Wave does indeed take up the chance to shake hands, no shortage of confidence in it on her end either. The glowing bands of her clothes stilled for the handshake before resuming their lazy trailing patterns, a nice touch that emphasised the attention being given Wave thought idly. "I'm frequently outmatched, but rarely outdone Idiori." she says giving a faint smile back and then nodded to her wings. "They should hold their own if it was all pure speed, but I doubt it'll be that simple."

Lowering her voice conspiratorially, Wave straightens her hair and glances over at the Sorcerer working at his Warstrider "In the interest of a fair race I'll give away that despite the choice he made, Uther there you won't have to watch your back for. Our fashionably late final opponent I think will happily do what they need to win though."

She leaves out what she'd do if the opportunity to get ahead arose, but then she was not entirely sure herself. Voice returning to normal, she carries on in her usual calm tones "It'll be good to have someone sharing an interest in strategy at the academy at last, I've been thinking of challenging someone to a game of stones. If we can still bear each others presence after the race, then the offer is there."

Mattel grabbed Mira to prevent the situation from escalating. He put on his best smile, "Now now Mira, they are just mad because they don't have such cute fan club president."

The lunar then pays close attention to the others as they point out the celestials in the Pavilion. He gives the occassional "oooooooohhhhh" and "aaaaaaaaaaawwwwe".

Mattel was totally into being with the fan club, not because there were hot chicks everywhere... but because the Lord Captain was an awesome exalt to look up to.

Idiori looks genuinely surprised by Wave's insinuations concerning Professor Uthar and Desus. She answers in a low voice, "I would be surprised if interference like that were even considered fair game in an Anthegenian race. I thought this was a city whose ruling figure promotes peace? Of course, I could always be wrong. Or... he could just pretend it was an accident."

"Personally though, I think Desus is good enough that he's not thinking he has to cheat. And what could the prize be that he can't get anywhere else?" She shrugs, not particularly interested in discussing the elder Exalt in detail.

Talking of strategy and gaming is much more to her taste. The Southern woman smile broadly at the prospect of Wave's challenge, less physical and more cerebral. "Well, I don't see why we couldn't. I hope you won't have any reason to hate me after we're done here! This is a friendly competition. To the best flier goes the spoils, and so on."

"I mean it, good luck out there. If any one of us beats Mr. Swagger, I'd consider it a day to remember." Idiori gives Wave a salute, fits on her goggles, then urges her moonsilver windblade toward her assigned start position.

Edged Blossom waves energetically at Pebbles' arrival, then laughs out loud at her suggestion. "Ha! You're on!"

Then she turns to Goldfinch and shrugs. "Eh, it'll be fine! Well, maybe not for you if you've got something riding on your win," she amends, innocently cavalier, "but I'm just competing for fun. If I fall, then damn, I deserve the agony I'll get for being that clumsy."

"And, I don't know your mother personally, but I know the name. Crane constantly ambushes me with pop quizzes about current events and political figures! I've had to be pretty sneaky sometimes, just to avoid being bombarded with questions... I suppose that means she's still teaching me something..."

Blossom is full of energy, more than ready for the race to commence. She bounces on her Windblade by the balls of her feet. "Ooh, I think I see the announcers coming. I can't wait!"

Rajha had been more or less letting Edged Blossom do all the talking, but when the little race began, she triggered her wings' transit mode and hopped platformward.

As she landed last of...well, everyone entering the Medium race, she just took her position with a little grin. The festival had gotten her a little dizzy...she shook her head to be ready for the race.

For Iblis, the moment is also one of reverence - not for himself, but for the many mortals and Dragon-Blooded airmen that he has seen fly over the years, people who have given years of service (and in some cases, their very lives) in service of Anthegenia's air defense. The Marshall accepts pictures with great care and genuine gratefulness. He takes the time to look at every one of them and, perhaps to the surprise of those who give them to him, he seems to know each Airman by name (or at least last name and callsign). When handed pictures, it is almost as if he enters a highly nostalgic state, recounting humorous anecdotes and personal memories of what it was like to fly with the pictured airmen to the crowds with a warm smile. The moment is highly emotional for him too, as his demonstration today was also meant to honor them - those who worked through the generations and passed on, either through retirement or for reaching the end of their lives.

As the time for the races approaches, however, Iblis diverts his attention momentarily to Atmadja, grinning at her. "Looks like it's going to be your time to shine, Red." Iblis says, tilting his head to the side. "I wanted to fly the Firebrand over to the race area to see you before the race, but your being here just simplifies everything." With that, Iblis reaches over the Kazei's waist and pulls her towards him, pressing his lips against hers in a big, heartfelt kiss.

Leaning back, the Air Marshall grins at the woman once more, then nods. "You should never leave for a sortie without your lucky charm. Now go and show 'em what you've got, Red. I'll be watching."

Comet comes to the one floating platforms, he looks around for any airships which have not yet departed into air yet. Look which one is available to accept passengers....

"Only my pride and dignity. They seem to command quite a high price on the markets today, but fortunately, mine appear to renew themselves every little while." He grinned. "It's probably due to my extraordinarily large ego, which I plan to use as a hot air balloon for this particular race." Pause. "Although, now that I think about it, my health and mobility appear to be pretty important as well. I prefer to have Agony as a very distant parent; one I treat with the utmost respect, and who visits rarely, if at all. "

Strangely dizzying girl. He wondered vaguely if he had been quite that hyper when he first started ou--no, really, you're probably still halfway there right now. Even with that wonderful mood damper you have on. But then again, this wasn't quite the time for introspection, was it?

"I don't suppose you have some of those questions about my mother on hand, do you? It's one of those.... ah, oddly morbid curiosities. Oh, hello, Pebbles; Rahja. No free pass for you, I'm afraid; but the best of luck, and the offer of  communal heartbroken-sobbing bardive when we're done."

Atmadja receives Iblis' kiss and returns it... eliciting a few sighs of longing from the crowd, and a few of irritation. Not everyone is a romantic.

She doesn't seem to care though, holding onto the Marshal for a blissful moment until she glimpses over Iblis' shoulder the last of the racers assembling on the platforms.  "Whoops, going to miss my cue. Thanks, love, and..." She leans in, whispering something into his ear that concludes with a wink.

Then she fits on her helmet and leaps over the railing of the balcony where the Iblis Club is gathered. There's a few gasps as she free-falls, rather than bursting into Essence or artifact wings like the other flyers. Atmadja doesn't seem concerned at all, though, letting out an exhilarated shout as she belatedly activates her jump harness. "Don't worry, I'm okay!" she hollers. From below resounds a piercing, hawklike cry and the roar of Essence vents, as a blur of red, orange and gold passes by to catch her from below.

The red jade and flame-painted warbird hovers as Atmadja slithers into the cockpit on its back (not a typical warbird feature, as they're usually ridden rather than piloted warstrider-style) and disappears inside. Its vents flare anew as it climbs rapidly upward, banking to circle the Festival area from high above, before diving to land amidst the young Celestials on the medium platform.

"Hello, fellow racers. Atmadja Kigal-Usha here." Atmadja's voice filtered through the cockpit has an oddly metallic tone to it. "Believe it or not, flying's a hobby for me. This baby's not military owned... if it were I'd be in a lot of trouble!" She lets out a tinny chuckle and waits, her warbird perched on the platform rather like a real bird, except much bigger and made of jade.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:58, Fri 16 Oct 2009.

The Anansi club members get herded along past two more bridges to the last airship still taking tickets. They and other ticket-holders tap their feet impatiently, craning their necks at the starting platforms.

"Geez, it's really about to start!" opines Mira, walking with Mattel. Her cheeks are still faintly pink from when he pulled her away and complimented her before. Myra smiles and quietly sing-song taunts from behind, "Mira and Mattel, sitting in an airship..." and Elmira looks forlorn, glancing at the distant Invierna.

Comet, meanwhile, stands at the large platform shared by all the airship rides. Most of the airships have already lifted off, but for the transport ship with the long line that Mira, Mattel and others are at, and the luxurious theater ship Harlequin. Maybe he could cut into the transport ship line? Many of the people at that line look plainly dressed; Dianora's hard mote would be worth plenty more than their tickets.

On the other hand, the Harlequin lacks a line altogether... but it looks like they're already setting up to pull up the stairway entrance and depart. There's two people in colorful diamond-patterned tights, belled tunics and caps assisting the takeoff from the ground, one the blonde that gave most of the announcements, the other a man with blue hair (a wig? or not?) and the physique of an acrobat.

Comet was eager to see the races from the sky....but that long line is likely long wait and likely miss some stuff. But Harlequin other hand has no one waiting but they are about to depart.....although such high luxury is not his 'usual' comforts what he seeks he thinks it more practical term; less traffic get in and definitely better viewing spot.

So Comet rushes quickly to the bridge which is pulled off and Comet shouts, while waving the hard mote; "WAIT! Do you still got space in the ship!?" Then Comet sees it is too late already, ship is departing and pulling slowly the connection bridge off the platform. He then decides gamble with his life, he slowly takes deep breath and pockets the hard mote into vest pocket, crouches low, hands touching the platform floor and then with spurt of speed runs hard towards the bridge!

Heart pounding his boots thunder on the platform floor rapidly, his open vest flapping in motion of the air which through Comet is surging through fast as he can! Teeth gritting he then leaps on the bridge from edge of the platform, attempting to take grip on the bridge and climb up on it while ship is pulling it in.

Edged Blossom laughs delightedly. "You're a funny man, Goldfinch. I dunno, there's plenty of egos in the Deliberative that could make pretty massive hot air balloons, don't you think?"

She pauses, mock-flinching when Goldfinch asks her to recall the Peregrine question. And she thought Crane was the only one who wanted to quiz her... "H-hey! You caught me off guard! Seriously, I don't remember much of anything right now. Um, she's a Twilight, but she has certain standards... what was it? Fae? Demons? Well one of those things she doesn't like summoning. She's er... a lot older than she looks, and spends more time off doing her personal stuff than in the debate room. Damn, I wish I had seniority so I could be lazy and pretend to be useful!"

Then the last of the Medium level racers arrives, the only one in an automaton vessel. "...Oh come on. A warbird? Are those even legal? Oh, but you're the Terrestrial, so you need us to be handicapped." This isn't said rudely, rather Blossom seems to genuinely believe this to be true.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:32, Fri 16 Oct 2009.

Comet leaps, and manages to stick his landing, hanging on as the stairway / bridge is retracted into the theater ship. The two Harlequin attendants left behind on the platform gasp and gawk at him helplessly.

"Hey, hey, wait a minute!" shouts out the blonde jester. There's nothing to do about it now, the Harlequin will be behind schedule if it tries to reconnect. "You don't even have a ticket!"

The blue-haired man next to her nudges her hard with his elbow. "Shhh! That kid's waving around a mark from the Silvered Midnight. D'you really want one of HER people stalking you 'cause you refused him?"

"Oh... crap!" The blonde looks a little paler, and continues to speak with her companion in a hushed voice. They watch the Harlequin float away toward an ideal vantage point near the start of the races.

Theater Ship Harlequin

Just inside the theater ship, two crewmen (also in colorful jester themed outfits, of course) work to pull the entrance shut. They glance at Comet quizzically, but they make no comment, figuring if he got past the attendants he's supposed to be here.

The Harlequin is large enough to be a multiple-decker, and it seems Comet's stepped into a corridor of one of the inner hull levels. The entire interior of the ship appears to be mainly crafted of fine Eastern wood panels embellished with green jade tracery, and now and then glittering green gems embedded into the wood. The windows are all patterned in rainbow hues of stained glass, depicting fanciful animals and scenery.

A crewman glances at Comet and points toward a staircase of polished cherrywood. "Over there's the way up to the top deck."

Comet balances on bridge until he gets inside, he studies the fine ship structure and was pleased see it was made from eastern lands sturdy tree. Which ironically also his village huts and houses were made also but likely less refined kind.

When crew member pointed to the stairs Comet nods and says; "Oh, thanks from pointing it out. This ships look big enough get lost in." Comet proceeds to the stairs and go to top deck. He somewhat wide eyed looks on displayed wealth and quality spend on single ship! He had never traveled such top quality ship. But also in presence of such wealth he feels more like a sneaky peasant despite he has impressive hard mote in his pocket (which wealth value he barely understands). Not to mention he is chosen of sun which itself brings merits what he is not even aware or acknowledging.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:46, Fri 16 Oct 2009.

The Races

The announcers Edged Blossom pointed out are a trio of air elementals from the Emporium. Sultan Aqil-al-Hezbah, a Lesser Air Dragon, has come personally to oversee the Races, along with two elder Cloud Elementals, a male and a female in ornate wind-crafted kaftan and sari, respectfully. As creatures natural to the air they need no platform to stand on, simply floating toward a position reserved for them between the Expert and Medium platforms.

Storm clouds and lightning swirl around the vast serpentine body of Aqil-al-Hezbah, who thunders: "The Festival of Journeys Race, sponsored by the Emporium of Aerial Conveyance, will soon commence!"

---

OOC: I am not likely going to write detailed posts for NPC racers once the race begins. As much as I've been loving to write all these fun NPCs, I'm starting to burn out. :) So barred any bursts of inspiration, it will be mostly their dice vs. the PCs' dice+stunts.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:32, Fri 16 Oct 2009.

Mighty as the elementals may be, their arrival is vastly overshadowed by Desus, who disembarks from the First Rule of Conquest riding a flying automaton steed of pure orichalcum and white jade, its saddle and ornamental bridle studded with diamonds. Thrusters on the hooves provide an extra burst of speed and maneuverability in tandem with the Essence repulsion field focused on the wings, emitting a potent haze of white-gold Essence. Those familiar with his hobbies recognize the automaton perfectly resembles his favored mount, a winged simhata custom bred for him by Bright Shattered Ice.

The man himself wears a handsomely cut flight coat in a hunter green and white, trimmed in shimmering gold embroidery along the shoulders, sleeves and torso, paired with white breeches with golden stripes up the legs and a dramatically flowing pure white cloak. Orichalcum shimmers at the torque around his throat, his oversized belt buckle and graces his perfected boots. His swagger stick is sheathed like a sword and attached securely to his saddle harness.

Desus guides his automaton simhata to settle gracefully between Wave and Marek (who has since boarded Wings of Gold, crouching at the ready at the start position). He turns and smiles amiably toward the two female Expert racers, turns again to salute Marek languidly, then spreads his arms in a gesture to the air elementals as if to say The star has arrived, now you may continue.

For all his vastness, Desus' reputation is widespread, and none, not even an essentially immortal Dragon, wish to anger him. So the Air Dragon does not immediately continue, allowing plenty of time for the elder Eclipse's throngs of fans to cheer, shout - and in some cases, even faint! - at the sight of him. The hero of countless wars, negotiations and troubles throughout Creation elicits no less than a standing ovation from nearly every mortal, Exalt and spirit who witnesses him arrive.

"Very well," utters the Air Dragon, his booming voice only barely managing to quiet down the ecstatic crowd. "Contestants, take your places. The rules are as follows: Remain airborne by means of the artifact you signed up with, or be disqualified. Stay within the limits of your designated race track, or be disqualified. Refrain from direct physical attack on fellow competitors, or be disqualified. Use of Essence techniques, Artifacts and Hearthstones supplementing flight are allowed, so long as they do not allow you to entirely transcend space or time, render you invisible or give you complete control of another contestant's mind or heart."

The cloud elemental with distinctly female appearance picks up where Aqil-al-Hazbah leaves off. "As you may already have seen, the Medium track allows for much more leeway in terms of airspace. The limitation is that one must pass through each floating ring in the correct numbered order. If you have done so correctly, the ring will flare with the hue and characteristics of your Anima. Some of these rings may move, be surrounded by obstacles, or require tight maneuvers to reach in quick succession at high speed."

Her male counterpart lifts his voice to the wind, conveying his description of the Expert track to competitors and spectators alike. "Expert level competitors, you will be flying within the confines of the Deadly Sidewinder Canyon, two miles below our current position. Once you have entered the canyon at the designated start point, you cannot for whatever reason rise above the height of the canyon walls until you have reached the finish line, or you will forfeit the race. Nor can you ever allow yourself or your mount to land on the ground, for the very same reason. But beware: the canyon may at times bend sharply, narrow considerably or place unexpected obstacles in your way."

"By participating in this race you agree to abide by these rules. If they are unsatisfactory, leave now." Aqil-al-Hazbah gives a cursory pause to allow racers to leave; apparently it's not something that happens often. "Very well! Medium and Expert racers, begin on my mark!"

The crowd, driven wild by anticipation, shouts along with the Air Dragon. "THREE! TWO! ONE! ...START!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:54, Tue 20 Oct 2009.

Theater Ship Harlequin

The top deck Comet reaches is as wide as a banquet hall, full of wealthy Terrestrial and high profile mortal patrons in their best clothes, sharing sparkling beverages and morsels of food. As the Races are the main event of the moment, the Harlequin's actors and actresses are mingling and relaxing with the rest.

There are many servants rushing about in green vests, white shirts and black pants, bearing drinks and snacks with a distinctly Eastern theme, or coats and wraps fetched from the guest closet for those who find the higher altitude more chill. The airship's band of string players and trumpeters plays an energetic tune for the revelers, and everywhere people are dancing and tapping their feet, if they're not leaning against the railings with magnifying lenses, attempting to get the best view possible of the races as they commence!

At the raised rear deck, a throne of oak and walnut cushioned in green velvet has been set down, surrounded by attractive men and women in fanciful winged costumes and ballroom masks. Perched on the seat with a wine goblet is a good-looking man with reddish brown hair, wearing dark leather slacks and a deep green captain's coat accessorized with a white cravat and gloves. He is Brazen Emerald, the captain and owner of the Harlequin.

Comet gets stared at a bit oddly. He's not a servant, as he lacks the green vest, yet he doesn't seem to fit in well with the patrons. Eventually, Emerald gestures to one of his lovely attendants, and the woman (in a floor length green gown studded with black crystal beads, and a matching green, black and silver-beaded mask) jubilantly weaves her way through the crowd toward him. "Hello, fine fellow, happy festival! Are you looking for someone?"

Excellent Airboat Gale VI

The relatively ordinary transport ship provided by Fortuna Gale's Shipping and Transport is already nearly full by the time Mira, Myra, Elmira and Mattel reach the ticket takers at the front of their line. "Oh, you've got to be kidding me, they did the countdown already! Hurry, tickets everyone!" Mira insists, then claps a hand on her mouth. "Oh no, Mattel, you don't have one yet, do you?? You've got money on you right? Pleasesayyoudo."
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:22, Sat 17 Oct 2009.

In mean time Comet has moved over side balconies which gave view to the races. He noticed races are nearly starting and he waited how races will progress, as he recognizes few of the riders in vehicles so with anticipation waits how they would fare.

When the masked woman came close Comet turned face her and replied; "Happy festival for you too! Well no, I am just watching races here. Very good view I say, the pilot had picked good spot for it." Comet had not got so much interest to other entertainment provided by the ship nor touched any the treats. He is plainly here to get good view of the races.

He has avoided bump too close with other patrons out of politeness, but yet despite what Wave had told Comet about 'natural authority for being exalt and solar' he still does not feel entirely comfortable to swing that way socially. Comet takes his recording necklace and from window starts record the races, then suddenly races starts and he checks his amulet is in right angle for good visual data.

Mattel goes with the flow but is very lost for words as they approach the transport. Maybe he should have let on more to how uncorfortable he is with flying on someone elses terms.

Patting himself down visibly looking for the money "not there" he face reveals is own sarcastic dissappointment. "I don't think I'll be able to make it. But I'll be ok. I'll be here when you land. I promise."

As they enter the transport he waves, he turns, and joins the other fans of races.

In reply to First Headmistress (msg #56):

Upon announcement of the race's beginning, Rajha began to shoot forward at maximum speed, the circular mark of the Night Caste burning on her face as she began moving forward-sideways in hopes of cutting straight in front of Five White Pebbles, the opponent she considered to be the greatest threat (at least at the moment) and forcing the Lunar to expend time slowing down or dodging around her. Without taking time to see whether she succeeded, a beat of Rajha's glowing wings sent her in another angled direction, down and almost straight towards an obstacle.

As she almost hit the floating orb, she kicked off against it with her foot and launched herself into the first line of rings.

Pebbles shifts to her "war" form as the countdown begins and the reasoning behind her ridiculously tight bodysuit becomes apparent, as her beastman shape is significantly smaller than her human form, the suit merely becomes comfortable once she's shifted.

Shape chosen, Pebbles begins to call upon  her essence while the rules are being read off, slowly her caste mark firms up and her anima banner begins to form.  Pebbles reflects to herself, as time seems to dilate, that it's the first time she's actually dipped into her peripheral essence to show her banner off.  Fittingly, it doesn't glow but rather steals ambient light from the surrounding area, causing every random reflection and glimmer to somehow be right behind her and shining in the eyes of whoever gazes upon the small Lunar.  At the same time her body steals shadows, darkening until she becomes an inky black silhouette against the ambience.

11:30, Today: Five White Pebbles rolled 4 successes using 11d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 3,1,7,5,9,7,6,4,4,7,1. First Race Roll.

Pebbles ostentatiously pulls the protective goggles down around her eyes as the countdown reaches zero, and waits a brief moment for the rest of the pack to tangle up ahead before she moves, stretching all four of her wings to maximum extension.  She dashes, and there's a sudden thunderblast as she breaks the speed of sound for about ten yards after starting, gaining altitude to go over the rest of the pack.

11:30, Today: Five White Pebbles rolled 5 successes using 11d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 8,2,7,6,5,5,4,1,8,8,8. Second Race Roll.

Spotting the first set, a horizontal ring followed by a vertical one normally requiring a 90-degree turn (and indeed, only able to spot it at such range because of her vision-enhancing gear), Pebbles unlatches her wings and stands on top of them in preparation, then performs a lengthy dive, rolling through the first ring and stepping on the second to get a small boost before landing back on the wings and latching them in place.

11:30, Today: Five White Pebbles rolled 3 successes using 11d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 3,1,4,10,1,3,3,2,2,9,5. Third Race Roll.

Theater Ship Harlequin

The masked woman smiles at Comet's compliment about the view. "We aim to please, sir!" As Comet finds a spot to pull out his Recorder, she remains nearby, nimbly dodging the crowds to keep up with him. She continues in a friendly voice as she peeks over the railing to get a glimpse of the Medium racers speeding off of the platform, humming to the tune of the trumpeters. "Isn't this exciting? Oh, and Captain Emerald wants you to know he'd like to meet you, now or after the races. May I ask your name? Mine's Dania."

Excellent Airboat Gale VI

Mira's face falls when Mattel deigns to join them. Suddenly she doesn't seem all that excited about the ride, and the hand holding her ticket hangs limply. "C'mon Mira, let's just go," says Myra, nudging her forward before the people still in line behind them get irate.

"O... okay... see you later Mattel." The Anansi Club girls give their tickets (Mira looking reluctant, as she glances over her shoulder) and are ushered into the airboat. She gives him a half-hearted wave and watches his red head disappear into the crowd, until her friends drag her toward a better viewing spot on the deck. By now the transport ship has already taken the last of its passengers, and disconnects from the platform, drifting up and away.

"L-look Mira, they're flying already," Elmira says, gently tugging on Mira's arm as they join the spectators, while Myra points and shouts excitedly. "WOW! That one there's going so fast she's just a blur!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:50, Sat 17 Oct 2009.

Wave tenses up as she grips the edge of the platform in preparation for the start of the race, staring down at the canyon entrance she mouths the final countdown to herself. Already bathed in light, Wave stares at the Canyon below picking out the exact spot she was going to aim for and a rough route that'd keep her out of a dead end. She concentrates until the image is burnt into her mind, the canyon below and the voice of the start up all she can sense as every other minor detail flits away. On the call of "START!" she takes off from the platform like a shooting star, hand pulling her down into a dive, the wings scythe through the air with a piercing screech and a trail of essence from her clothes drapes out behind her.

The ground seems to rush up to meet her and a great cloud of dust is churned up into the air as her wings splay out and turn the dive into a rapid forward thrust. Wave had lost track of the other racers already, relying on her training to warn her if danger was coming her focus instead set entirely on the upcoming track. The canyon was a twisting, turning affair and wide as it was at the speeds Wave was taking it she had to react with lightning reflexes to avoid ending up a Solar shaped indentation in the Canyon's side.

The canyon wasn't without other obstacles though and as she flew she encountered a large corridor filled with natural stone structures, the tops still thick and heavy with rock still untouched by time while the wind tunnel below had carved the pillars supporting them into long thin strips. Collapsed sections allowed the people above to see inside this natural web of traps for the fast paced Exalt and Wave weaved through them without cutting her speed an inch.

By now she couldn't even see what was coming up, her caste mark blazing bright on her head and her own personal essence mixing in with the rest of her costume making her an iridescent blur that flowed around the pillars like water. Drawing deep in herself to fine her reflexes to a keen edge she managed to make it three quarters of the way through the deadly maze before a sudden gust of wind blew her off course, the tips of her wings clipping a support and sliced it neatly in two. It was pure luck she wasn't sprawled into one of the many pillars surrounding her as she tumbled sideways, twisting through the air to try right herself she her feet manages to find purchase on the canyon side. She didn't allow herself to stop, bounding along the side in great leaps with her wings powering out large flaps to try put her safely back in the air. On the fifth jump it caught and she was away again, diving through the last of the obstructions and into the long stretch before the tunnel down.

Her collision wasn't completely without consequence though, the sheared pillar dropped its great rock down into the canyon where it landed with a thunderous crash a great wave of sound rumbling up the canyon and shaking its sides. Wave lets out a mumbled curse into the rushing air as she sees rocks begin to cascade down from the Canyon's sides the thrum of the sound having shook them loose. She has no time to lose though and meets the deluge of rocks head on, her Great Daiklaive whipping out to neatly cut the first one in two, flying right through the gap she's parted and twirling to make a fan of steel in front of her that turns aside two more.

The sound given off by clashes of Orichalcum on steel is further punctuated by great flashes of white essence and as Wave's anima flares into life, the typhoon of golden essence whirls away smaller rocks all by itself. Her progress made with the blade adds to the effect, boulders trying to halt her are either turned away or split into pieces as she streaks for the small entrance, the typhoon twisting to catch up. The entrance to the race track below is barely big enough to fit her and sparks are throw up as her blade and wings scratch grooves into the side, the typhoon roars in after her, swirling down into the small opening until the golden glow fades away leaving only clouds of dust still settling from the impromptu landslide.

"Oh, probably, but they've all been disqualified. Lord Sol doesn't like anyone blocking his view of Anthegenia." Ah, but it's almost time now, wasn't it? He spotted Lord Anansi's ship rising up into the blue above him, and wondered if he was being watched right now. Probably. "As it stands, however, we're still currently doomed to serve as the pitiable entertainments of our elders--so, best of luck, Lady Blossom. I'd wish you more, but I need it for my own."

And then, of course, Atmadja drops in with a... huh. Wow. "Considering she's part of the Anthegenian Airfleet, Blossom, I don't quite think she needs us at a disadvantage as much as we do her." He grinned. "Try not to crush us too badly, will you, lady? I don't quite know your name, but from what I've seen of the display flight earlier..." And the race gets to get a little harder with every passing second. Ah, Sol. At least there were only... three? two? Ah. One second.

...no, wait, there weren't any more.

START!"

A lovely thing about modern magitech: what with all the high speeds, impossible accelerations, and, depending on vehicle, sometimes the absolute lack of anything in front of your face, Meru's many Twilight engineers have worked to give some degree of protection to the poor aircraft pilots, ensuring errant stones or pieces of grass didn't decide to take their own high-speed trip through skin, into flesh, and possible make a pit stop at the nearest random organ. Of course, the slower, heavier transports didn't need such innovations, and the high-flying airships already had more than enough armour--but things like the Windblade? Its original designer simply must have had some sort of strange irony in mind. Razor winds were as dangerous as anything else--so they made sure to reduce them into gentle, flowing, breezes, which both helped to keep the rider cool and made him look awesome.

Especially if he had a cape on. Then he looked really awesome.

For a moment, the air blurred about the platform, as five magitech craft buzzed to life from their idle states... and, in the space of a second, there was nothing left but the choking, roiling dust. (It was entirely possible that Anthegenia, clean as it was, had specifically put dust on the platform just so it could roil up when the fliers sped off. Special dust. Honestly, real dust wouldn't roil in such a roiling fashion, but...  no one would actually go and make special grit for these things, right?)

(But then again, it was the High First Age.)

Goldfinch, however, was (at that point) in no real state to ponder the strange supply/demand formulas for special dancing dirt; the no-sand-to-the-face systems were great for, well, deflecting dust and all, but distracting himself with economic equations would probably set him up for a nice Anthegenia-to-the-head. The age-old war machine would take him on and scrape him off, possibly all within the same minute, while absently counting the clouds in the sky.

Let's see... well, actually, this isn't half as bad as Professor Rolick's original practice course. Sure, there were several competitors with him, but--look! No walls of lightning! Or giant circles of fire! Sure, there were circles, but at least they weren't, for example, trying to eat him alive. He hoped. They wouldn't kill anyone in front of... well, a few million or so people, right?

...er.

Yeah. Probably.

Besides, Peregrine would object.

Nevertheless, Goldfinch tucked into a quick roll as he approached the yawning gate, turning Windblade and flaring cloak into a perfect circle of gold as he spun through the ring. Sure, if it suddenly caught on fire he was pretty much screwed, but if it was going to shoot anything at him the cape would catch it, and the orichalcum vehicle would probably knock it away--so, obviously, it was going to explode in golden flames. He almost swore.

...ok, actually, that looks pretty awesome.

Bright golden birds streamed after him in a thundering wave, a pure white star shining in the heart of the ring as it spun, half-immolated in a bright corona of sunlight. The flock followed him as he flew, ethereal wings carving a path across the sky in glowing, half-seen bodies, and he almost (almost) didn't see the next ring when it came; and that, too, exploded into glory, a second--no, third brilliant light in the noonday sky. A part of him exulted at the sight; who didn't wish his name so blazed across the sky?

But he had a race to win.

(He was grinning; a strange, savage smile, filled with a kind of pride he wasn't quite sure was really his. Even if he lost this, well, if he lost this race, this moment more than made up for it.)

The third ring was in front of him, on on impulse, he let his essence flood through both he and the craft itself; let his own anima light up in a storm of towering fury, his flock joining the rings' children as, blazing in the light of the Crowned, the Windblade took him scything through the third and final ring of this leg, and drawing the bridge of birds in a perfect arc across the sky. Do you see that, Mother? This is who I can be.

Mattel looked out over at the races with great excitement. If anything he was proud of his peers and wished nothing for the best of them.  To himself he even gave small prayer to the Shogun for them and so they, "Beat Desus' ASS!"

The lunar was fully engaged as an observer and crazed fan. And while he maintained his current demeanor, anyone who thought they might boo and yell against his fellow classmates he made sure there popcorn and drinks spilled. Those who cheered for his friends were met with mutual looks of obscene facial expressions of excitement.

Medium Race

Any hope of surpassing Pebbles is quickly forgotten as she explodes into a blaze of moonlight and shadow that completely engulfs her appearance, and propels forward in a blur so swift she can only be made out by the color of her anima. If Pebbles loses control at the speeds she's going, it'll be painful, to say the least! Her early lead makes many of the serious betters swear unhappily.

Goldfinch is both a showman - dazzling the spectators with distinctive Essence displays - and a consummate rider, even on a magitech 'steed'. If not for Pebbles' boundless speed, he would easily be leading this race. As it stands, Pebbles is already hundreds of yards ahead of him, but his flawless maneuverability carries him easily past obstacles and through each series of rings as if they were simply there for decoration. Even at second place, the crowds are definitely on his side.

Atmadja never manages to correct Goldfinch on her Air Force involvement before the race gets started! Her warbird flares with fiery Essence, lifting off the platform to streak toward the first series of rings, emitting a triumphant, distorted screech as it picks up speed. Still, she is about 80 yards behind Goldfinch by the time her magnificent jade phoenix barrel rolls into the second half of the race, lighting up the sky with contrails of pure flame.

Rajha's golden Essence wings are not nearly as swift as the others' vehicles, but she takes advantage of her body's natural athleticism. She propels herself off improbable surfaces to push herself further and faster, diving smoothly through each ring with graceful acrobatics. She comes close enough to feel the blast of heat vents from Atmadja's warbird, but not quite enough to surpass her... yet.

Edged Blossom gets off to a terrible start, nearly missing the first ring altogether, but with a burst of determination swings her Windblade into a vertical loop and surges through behind Rajha, catching up steadily at every ring until she is about 30 yards away from 4th place.

The second part of the Medium race ramps up in difficulty, starting with stationary rings arranged in backward loops and jagged formations, followed by a compact collection of obstacles (think asteroid field) with rings nestled in their midst, continuing with a series of rings moving in circular or zigzag patterns as the racers hit the final stretch.

After first half
1st: Pebbles
2nd: Goldfinch
3rd: Atmadja
4th: Rajha
5th: Edged Blossom
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:08, Sun 18 Oct 2009.

Professor Marek completed the final preparations of his Warstrider, Wings of Gold was already chatting the check in list before start and Marek followed it perfectly, even after many runs in the Warstrider it was always comforting to follow Wings of Gold's list. When he was ready he asked the Warstrider's AI to balance the giant armor whe performing difficult maneuvers, though Marek could do it in this race Desus was there too and you could never know what tricks he would do during the race so Marek would have to be concentrated on what he and the other races did.

- "So, do you feel like winning today Wings?" Asked Marek to her companion.


- "Completely Marek, I hope Desus will not cry when we'll win this race."

- "Yeah, he doesn't looses much, so he doesn't knows how to loose well."

They continued to chat on the strategies for the race and prepared themselves. When the race countdown began both concentrated fully on it. They waited until the word was spoken.

"START" They shouted and Marek quickly accelerated to race.

Expert Race

The flight in the canyon is difficult to follow for all but the guests lucky enough to have an aerial view. Aerial cameras flock to track the race for the display screens, some breaking apart as they smash into canyon walls or are shredded by the turbulence in the racers' wake.

Desus flies through the twisting turns and rocky obstacles at his leisure, exhibiting none of the 'tricks' Marek might expect. Nothing but pure talent (bolstered by a touch of Essence, naturally) and the speed of his flight-capable automaton steed. He may as well be taking a leisurely stroll down an open field with how much tension he shows, though he's still going much too fast to so much as glance at his fans. A shame.

Most of the spectators are convinced Desus 'allows' Marek to get close. Others argue that Desus is a better sailor than a rider, so the Professor may well have a chance. Whatever the case may be, Marek and Wings of Gold are exactly even with Desus and his Clockwork Simhata as they hurtle into the narrow opening that marks the second half of the race. Desus turns to Marek with a friendly smile and a salute, and urges his flying steed to blast ahead!

70 yards away, Idiori takes up the second position on her incredibly maneuverable moonsilver Windblade. She flies in a forward crouch, tucking in her elbows and knees to make herself more compact and aerodynamic, her moonsilver goggles keeping her vision clear and precise. No matter the obstacle, she never touches the ground, ducking and twisting and spiraling her way under falling rocks and over jagged formations, at one point barely scraping by as she sideswipes the canyon walls.

Even so, Wave is quickly catching up to her, despite being slowed down in the first half of the race by near-collisions and a tight squeeze. She looks amazing doing it, though, her close calls eliciting gasps from a crowd thrilled by danger! With a turn of better luck and a more decisive application of skill, she is sure she can surpass her Lunar counterpart. Passing the two in the lead will be much more of a challenge, though, as both Idiori's Windblade and Wave's crystalline wings lag behind the highly advanced machines of the elder Exalts.

The Expert race continues in this narrow, twisty ravine, which soon closes up into a tunnel with branching paths and obstacles to dodge in an uncomfortably tight, enclosed space. Here it's all but impossible for spectators to see a thing, but intrepid cameras and Earth spirits watching from within the tunnel give regular announcements as to the progress of the racers.

The final stretch bursts out into a last section of open air canyon. It's relatively straight but extremely narrow, with opening and closing barriers for racers to time their way through, and automaton beasts that attempt to swat them into the walls or up into the sky to disqualify them. Just staying in the race looks as if it will be treacherous!

After first half
1st: Desus, Marek
2nd: Idiori
3rd: Wave
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:10, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

When Professor Marek arrived at the open stretch he took note of every trap and choke point.

- "Calculate the most effective way through this place and take notice of the obstacles, we need to go as fast as possible if we want to beat Desus, he will have the advantage of his smaller craft so we need to use our speed to win. Make the necessary corrections during our rush." Marek said to Wings of Gold, who quickly showed Marek the best path through the area.

Marek then channeled more essence into the Warstrider wings and, changing his flight configuration for greater speed begun to look more like a giant falcon made of pure gold.

Given the situation... Mattel was a bit on edge. "Surely Wave could catch up and win" he thought out loud. There had to be something he could do... there had to be something. Even though Wave was not the most popular on the floating isle... perhaps it was not too late.

Mattel was not a skilled performer but he was going to do what he could. Jumping to a rail. He looked out at the crowd in the immediate area. He began to chant hoping they catch on.

"Wave!"

"Wave!"

"WAVE!"

Each time he got louder. He was not afraid to show off either. Letting his caste mark gitter and Tell clearly show, he was going for gold. His agile movements increased his visibility for more groups. Then he continued.

"Wave!"

"Wave!"

"WAVE!"

Once he was satisfied with more crowd participation he moved on doing his best to have it spread to all those he could. As the crowd reached it's penacle from what he could determined, he proceeded to give an all out prayer.

"Vanileth, Shogun of Artificial Flight hear the people. They cheer for a champion who deserves much. May you humbly bless her flight so that we can all see the beauty that lies beyond the crystal tower in the Celestial city. It would honor us to honor you in this diplay of artificial flight. Wave Crashes Against The Rocks is a champion for her people. Let her be a heroine in your eyes today as she displays the ingenuity required others lack. Bless her so that we might see flight in it's purest and most beautiful form... artificially!"

Biting her lip in frustration at falling behind as she glides through the narrow ravine, the typhoon of essence whipping after her bleaching the walls as she passes. From above it's like her light actually blasts away the shadows on the walls of the ravine leaving it gleaming and smooth.

Pushing away the feeling of loss she commits herself to the course once more, the tunnels actually suited her rather well she noticed. Short, twisting and tricky to manoeuvre for the larger crafts she slips through the winding corridors with ease, razor tipped wings carving grooves into the walls as she kicks off them and rolls into a new direction barely losing an ounce of speed.

The paths diverge but Wave has a good sense of direction and keeps aligning herself towards the other side when she gets the choice. Down one tunnel spiked chains whipped out from the walls, cutting off the corridor into sections that she could just about duck through, but any false move would have her meeting with the razor sharp spikes along their lengths. At this speed she'd be cut to ribbons, but she refuses to turn back and find another way, gracefully slipping and twisting through the links, before emerging from the web of steel without a single one even trembling. The path out is a veritable gauntlet of traps, spinning blades are parried, thrown up walls are smashed right through and portcullis are bent and broken under her furious charge. She wouldn't place last no matter what happened, her pride simply wouldn't allow it.

A smile flickers on her lips as she sees the sun at last and she looks beyond the short clear stretch of ground to the walls slamming together with a furious roar of chipping stone beyond. Requiring precise timing to pass with safety Wave saw that her smaller frame should give her an advantage here. Diving through one just as it smothers the stream of essence behind her with a thud she streaks out to the next, passing it with ease. She was taking every chance with this ignoring the danger so she could just power right on through as long as the 'gates' were open when she arrived. Her resolve was carrying her on now, drowning out all notion of safety in return for grasping some kind of success for herself. The crowds gasps as she was near pulverized by the walls growing increasingly louder with each near miss, but only spurring her on to take greater risks and find more speed to claw back time.

It almost worked, but as Wave approached the final set her bravery had lead her into its jaws as it snapped closed, deceptively quick. Wave had barely a second to react and didn't even seem to have the chance to move before the two walls met with a disturbing grinding sound that enveloped the iridescent figure still right in it's centre. The Tornado of essence flickered out and the wind swept the dust down on the barriers to reveal them pressed shut.

But against all expectations, Wave came out past them anyway her anima banner churning up the ground before her as it pulled itself free of the trap. Those of the crowd who'd dare look back to the walls and gaze closely could see her Daiklaive horizontally embedded into both sides of the barrier, a foot deep by both handle and blade keeping the two sides apart just enough for one woman to squeeze through. Wave span in the air to look back and the sword glowed a blindingly bright gold as it come free from it's bindings with a loud snap, two great chunks of the walls breaking off with it and collapsing the whole structure down on itself with a earthshaking rumble. Wave catches the blade in her hand and flicks it behind her, a few drops of white essence drizzling out and burning away in the air as she continue on.

She could see the end, the automatons moving to intercept and as Mattel worked the crowd she could feel that this had become more than just her proving something to herself. People were behind her now and that meant they were counting on her to provide for their faith. It felt a little like home, where the people needed her as much as she needed them and it spurred her on, determined to see this through to the very end. To give less than her all would be unthinkable by now.

An eagle like automaton with vicious, blood red jade talons raked towards and her blade cut it off at the wing, sending the bird to curl up in simulated pain and tumble down to the ground as it spilled its mechanical guts out into the air. Even if they could feel no real fear, the following automatons seemed to hesitate to face her blade advancing slowly and each time paying the price for it. Ducking a wild swing from a walking artillery piece on the ground trying to bring her down with huge heavy balls of steel on a long metal cord she dodges to the side and smashes the ball away with a reverse swing of her Daiklaive the steel cable scything through two of the attacking birds and the momentum of it bowling over the unusually designed siege craft.

No race of this style would be complete without a final, near impossible challenge and while one was no doubt set aside for each Exalt in Wave's case this was a lumbering, man shaped, metal monstrosity with titanic steel jaws on its huge head snapping the air eagerly in anticipation for Wave, the throat blazing red hot with a furnace no doubt contained inside that allowed it to belch out long gouts of fire. Its limbs were moved with powerful devices that rendered Wave's attempted jinking useless, it was so fast that she saw it was going to get her in its maw no matter what she did. Even knowing this though, she didn't stop. The Dawn Caste rolled past a ball of flame and dove into the jaws as the creature roared in triumph, a cry that was cut short as Wave tore through the back of it's metal skull with the blade glowing bright, sending a spray of flaming parts out into the air. The typhoon following her crashed into the giant automaton and sent it over to its side, lying on the ground a broken, smoking heap.

Wave dives to land over the finish line in a crouch with her wings cocooned above her, shielding her from the rain of burning debris that follows. As the last piece of burning scrap bounces clear she rises to her feet imperiously, the halo of light around her giving her triumphant smile a radiant glow. Her wings flicked out to her side and her Daiklaive went over her shoulder, she raises and arm to the sky to wave at the crowds who'd had her back a satisfied glow in her heart that she'd pushed herself right to her current limits. Still catching her breath she'd never felt so drained, it was taking an effort of will to even remain standing as the dizzying rush of power slowly faded. Looking around through the essence fuelled haze of her clothes she finally realised that after all that, she hadn't the faintest idea how she'd done.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:31, Sun 18 Oct 2009.

Pebbles blasts towards the loop of rings and bypasses the backwards loop as she tugs the long scarf that's flapping behind her.  Avoiding any chance of slowing down, she instead uses the scarf as a lasso to snag a stony pillar, allowing centrifugal force to spin her in an incredibly brutal circle as the scarf is forcibly yanked from her hands the the sheer pressure of the turn tears the scaly skin from her hands.  Droplets of blood sizzle into the air as she hits the backwards loop full-tilt.
18:50, Today: Five White Pebbles rolled 8 successes using 18d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 5,2,2,5,4,10,5,7,1,7,1,5,2,10,9,8,2,1. Complex Rings (+Con, +Exc).

Reaching where it suddenly reverses, Pebbles is finally forced to drop speed, and indeed she stops entirely in a narrow confine and slams into the center ring, using it to slow herself down before jumping back off in the opposite direction.  The rings, apparently, had been made of merely mortal steel without magical materials to reinforce their actual structure as the impact of Pebble's warform slamming it, even at a more sedate speed of only three hundred miles an hour, bends it into an oval before she whipcracks into the asteroid field.  Here, she attempts to brazen things out by simply outrunning the asteroid field and winds up slamming into one with crushing force, knocking her back and loosing a tremendous amount of distance recovering her wits as she clings to the floating object and tries to rally her essence.
18:59, Today: Five White Pebbles rolled 3 successes using 18d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 5,4,3,9,4,4,9,6,2,2,2,5,1,2,4,1,6,9. Asteroid Field (ditto).
Owie

Recovering, she tries to take on the moving ring pattern but, tired, out of essence, and suffering from a crippling injury to the shoulder from her collision, she's forced to take it slow and run on the hope that her early lead will last as she dashes for the the finish line, manages to just cross it, and then hits the ground, bouncing twice before rolling nearly twenty yards before her energy is spent.
19:01, Today: Five White Pebbles rolled 5 successes using 18d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 2,5,7,1,2,6,6,7,6,3,3,7,3,4,10,3,1,4. Moving Ring Pattern.
What miserable luck!
This message was last edited by the player at 03:15, Mon 19 Oct 2009.

Rajha's face drew into a tight frown as she watched everyone else zip ahead of her beating wings. She knew her equipment was probably the weakest hand-me-down in the whole race, while that soft Goldfinch and Pebbles sported in the air as if mocking her. With all of that in mind, she decided then and there to show them what skill could do, with or without a top-flight engine. Golden light began to build up around her as she snaked through the first pattern of rings without even losing speed. It was just like in the jungle, where she had surfed on carpets of moss and leaped through the spaces between branches.

21:13, Today: Rajha rolled 10 successes using 14d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 1,7,2,8,9,1,8,4,4,3,7,4,10,2. #1, +Conviction +3 Succ.

The thought reminded her of her home, and of why she had become a Solar. An animalistic growl burst from her throat as she blazed forward towards the field of stones, heedless of anything that might be in her path, mighty golden wings charged with the force of her anger shedding beams of rainbow light behind them, and as she reached the field, the wings began to strike aside the rocks in her way to the rings. Midway through, her hand reached to her weapon belt and unthinkingly grabbed her sky-cutter, flinging it instinctively at a boulder in her way and shearing it in two, then catching the weapon as she flashed through the ring.

21:13, Today: Rajha rolled 11 successes using 14d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 9,4,5,6,7,2,7,8,1,3,7,3,4,10. #2, +Conviction +4 Succ.

As she passed through the last ring, Rajha's anima burst forth around her, concealing her body entirely within its opaque golden glow. It took the shape of a great serpent forged from sunlight, with six flaming orichalcum wings that carried it through the sky like a fish through the ocean while rainbowed light descended upon the watching crowds. The sun-dragon began diving through the moving rings like the eye of a hurricane, and as she passed through each ring in turn, her speed only increased, launching her from goal to goal with the careless abandon and limitless energy of the Unconquered Sun himself. As she came towards the finish line, she dived like a hawk, then backwinged once. Her serpent dissipated with that launch, leaving only the woman clad in liquid sunlight standing on her toes, an inch over the finish line.

21:14, Today: Rajha rolled 14 successes using 14d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 6,10,2,10,9,3,2,7,7,6,1,7,3,7. #3, +Conviction +5 Succ.

Her wings dissipated, and Rajha fell directly to her knees, almost completely exhausted from the power she had burned.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:48, Mon 19 Oct 2009.

Comet smiles and replies; "Yeah, as also some my student friends are driving there so I am excited to see how they get placed in the contest. Oh, meeting your captain after the races is fine. I am Comet. Nice to meet you Dania."

Finally sure that the Harlequin was up and underway, the slender girl made her way to the main deck.  She'd had to sneak aboard, of course, but the idea both of riding aboard the ship as well as getting a great view of this 'race' spurred her to do it.  She'd almost been nabbed getting on, but very thankfully managed to keep herself concealed from a suspicious crewmember.

Once the ship had shuddered, lifting away from it's berthing, she came out again, climbing up several decks until finally arriving on the main guest deck.  Without hesitation, she went to the rail and stomped her foot with a bit of frustration.  "Darn.  I missed the start of the race!" she thought to herself.  More over, her dress definitely didn't scream that she could have possibly afforded to be where she now stood.  A lack of foresight on her part, perhaps; the young woman didn't give much thought to the occasional stare she received.

She hadn't had any meaningful contact with other Celestials until her arrival at the floating city.  Now, it seemed no matter where she went, they were everywhere.  Even being late to the race, the sight of watching the racers below amazed the very inexperienced Liarra.  The speeds at which the racers could travel defied logic, almost incomprehensibly fast were these Exalted.  Her eyes were very wide, marvelling at the festivities below.  "Wooow!  How is that even possible!?" she said, not speaking to anyone in particular.

Everything was going so well. Clematis was annoyed by Mattel's evaision of his personal gaurd. But then again, he was a lunar. They were tricky in nature, perhaps a little to tricky. He would have to keep a better eye on his mate. Perhaps he should call in an old favor and have him followed.

Attendants passed champagne and sweet delicacies around on the elder solars light battle cruiser he used to watch the races. And just as Clematis was going to stand to cheer on his elder Desus, he spit his drink out. He spit it all over a servant that handed him the drink in the first place. She could see his temper flare and attempted to rush out of the way of his incoming wrath. But then it was already to late.

"What the hell are you doing!? Do you think you could remain here looking like that?" Clematis snorted and started a malicious laugh looking around for those around to join in. "It's ok. I know where you would fit right in. *dramatic pause* Escort miss champagne covered waitress lady to the sewage tanks."

He burst into laughter, along with his groupies on board. And the screams of the horrified servant only gave him more reason to laugh, and laugh hard he did. And just as sudden as he started to laugh, he stopped.

"Now can someone explain to me why Mattel is down there and not up here? Or perhaps someone would like to explain to me how fast a Terrestial exalt falls from this hieght?"

The party was over in the cruiser. Clematis merely sat in his chair mentally isolated and no longer caring for the festivities.

Theater Ship Harlequin

"Good to meet you, Comet! You're actually friends with some of the racers?? That's fascinating!" Dania says to Comet, sounding genuinely surprised. "Captain Emerald will be thrilled. Medium, or Expert? Emerald's favorite for Medium is the son of Peregrine Altair, Goldfinch."

While the masked woman in green continues conversing with Comet, Liarra creeps her way onto the main deck looking quite out of place. Everyone is elegantly dressed and glittering with jewelry, dancing and cheering and drinking champagne as the races wind on toward a conclusion. More than once she's nearly knocked over by some over-eager reveler or someone rushing by with a tray.

She's within a few feet of Comet and Dania by the time she exclaims at the racers, so Dania picks up on Liarra's simple question. "Silly girl, they're Celestials! They can do anything. They'll tell the laws of nature to sit down and shut up if'n they want."

A split second later, Liarra feels someone brush up behind her, a hand touching her... back?

"Wow.. I never would have imagined such ability." she marvels.  A brushing touch on her back has her turning on her heels.  It wasn't until she took the time to be so close to other people, that she realized just how out of place she appeared.  She does glance curiously at the pair, and looks around in case an immediate source of the touching isn't apparent.  Liarra is no stranger to the 'bump' method of pocket examination, taking a moment to run her hands across her hip.  Casually, of course, as to not attract 'too' much attention to what she's doing.  "And to race on such a beautiful day, yes?  It's amazing!  Or, do I have the Celestials to thank for that too?"

Comet smiles to Dania and replies; "Yeah, both in medium and expert I have student friends. Goldfinch is one which I have met more often and also Wave who is in Expert." Comet records the races in detail as he could with his recorder. When Liarra comes in and talks he smiles and replies; "I guess I should say 'of course' but so far as I know city's weather is full around the clock manipulated with essence. But also weather outside Anthengenia is nice so we should be grateful that no weather affecting god or goddess is grumpy mood today." Comet keeps eye on the man who had obviously tried grab on Liarra, keeping eye out would he re-attempt the action.....readying interfere.

The crowd loved him.

He could feel it; part of him always could, in a way, simply because of who he'd been trained to be. Their eyes were on him, hot and hungry, and a part of him knew, full well, that that really shouldn't matter--but what the hell. He was here. He felt alive. So it was that he was racing like a madman, pushing himself, taking all the tiny tricks and shortcuts that could have felled a lesser horseman and knowing full well he would make it alive, because that's what they wanted him to; how could he, as Eclipse and showman, disappoint?

The arrow snaked out like a bolt of living fire, twisted itself about the center ring; and he pulled, swinging Wingblade and Solar in a tight, killer arc even as the rope frayed itself from the speed. Twine snapped; wood splintered; and the sudden jerk of the rope ran through his body, forcibly realigning the craft in a sudden, midair twist even as the remnants of its original velocity pushed it... further, further, I know I've got this and further through the final ring of the curve, its right blade sparking against the mixed-alloy ring as it shot down an impossibly steep cut in the path, carrying a grinning Celestial on its back.

After all, some people had paid to see this spectacle, and while he didn't doubt the Expert races was probably holding their own mid-air extravaganza, well, he couldn't slack off just because of that. It'd be... unprofessional.

The Wingblade cut to a stop in midair, and all of a sudden, the glowing pad beneath his feet was gone, sending him catapulting head-face off his errant steed.

Like how dying would be horribly unprofessional.

Cloak flaring behind him, the young Solar rose and fell in his private aurora, surrounded by the birds of his Celestial heritage. For a single, dreadful moment, the ground beckoned beneath him, whistling a promise of sudden, messy death--and it probably would have continued into a full-blown musical production of the same, had not the ring he was entering chose the moment to burst into the familiar flames, followed by another... then another...

(One day, he decided, he would find some way of flying with nothing else holding him. At all.)

...and at the bottom of the arc the Windblade was waiting for him, essence playing off its glittering form, oof.

And that's the first part down. Next up; all he had to do was brace himself as he slammed into a boulde--Ow.

There's a breathless moment as his anima flickered, the magpies quietened...

Not dead? Ok.

...and then the great rock burst into an Eclipse's gold and whites, echoing the transmutation of his previous steed. A loud, steady thrumming; and slowly, surely, the great asteroid accelerated, bursts of staccato sound singing as lesser stones began to crash and scrape across its surface, building a strange, cacophonous music in the heart of the race. It wasn't quite what anyone would prefer to hear in their mornings, but even heavy rock(s) had fans; and, well, what better to herald its rider's signature flock?

There was a great, final explosion as the meteor finally slammed into its better, throwing smoke and dust in a terrific, golden inferno--and, at its heart, grinning in fierce exultation, Goldfinch slipped neatly into the first of the rings, four and twenty magpies saluting him with song. But that wasn't all that he set out to do, was it?

Still sparking with Celestial fury, the remnants of the two greater rocks continued to ricochet through the asteroid maze, changing paths and altering momentums. The broken pieces, carried by their explosive momentum, drove pebbles against pebbles and stone against stone, twisting the lay of the land into a significantly different labyrinth... and in their pinballing fury, sent certain strange, weightless rings careening, away from positions and orbits both and one two three fourfivesixseveneight--

(From above, it must have looked like a strange dance of rock and stone--golden bullets, shooting forth from the original explosion, darting forth to hit another, then another, then another--until ten, twenty, thirty-odd; more! suddenly sped out from the growling, crashing mass, to streak, like falcons, out into the third segment to smash headlong into those self-propelling rings, driving them out of orbit for just a moment, just a second, just the briefest of grains to fall--)

And then he was on the other side, a clear, golden road shining behind him from rock through air as the twenty-odd rings held (for a moment) in their clean, sweeping arc; quivered; and, as his anima finally left them, they blew apart, spiraling their own ways back into the mess of rubble and rock. For a moment there, it'd felt so wonderfully easy, watching each ring descend upon him in time to take him from the last; but then he was at the end of the race, cloak flapping behind him, as the last of the thunderous impacts fell away into dust.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Tue 20 Oct 2009.

Theater Ship Harlequin

Liarra glances behind her and sees a tall, well-built man dressed as an employee of the Harlequin. "Well look what I've caught up with," he says loudly, with a smile that shows large, perfect teeth, staring down at the young woman, "a stowaway." A few gasps and whispers pop up nearby in reaction, but most patrons are too engrossed in the music, or watching the racers to care much.

Technically Comet is just as much of a stowaway, but no one here would know. After all, he DID essentially pass by the attendants, if only due to Dianora's wealth!

Dania, meanwhile, waves her fan dismissively at the large man with dark brown hair and a trimmed beard who is apparently some form of security. "Come on, Cainus, let the kids have their fun. You can't tell me you've never slipped onto a ship before just for the thrill of it! We all love flying for a reason." She smiles down at Liarra, her blue eyes framed by a sequined mask that leaves the mouth uncovered. "And what's your name? I'll have to take you to see Captain Emerald as well, but we can wait till after the--"

The rest of her words are swallowed up as the entire deck of the Harlequin roars and shouts in excitement! It looks like the races are finally reaching a conclusion...

As Wave finished her last leg of the race Mattel allowed himself to relax. So sudden his attitude change, he had to remember how poise he usually is. Dusting his clothes off he quickly assumed the "Mattel" posture leaving the poeple to rally who they wanted to. He could only hope the Shogun heard his prayer and made a difference.

The student took to the platform and made his way to the ground where he would meet the Fan club. After all, he was starting to miss them.

<To the Ground>

Medium Race

Most people watching the Medium Race by now are most interested in two things: how long Pebbles can keep up her mind-boggling burst of speed, and how Goldfinch will amaze them next.

Five White Pebbles

The first question is answered when Pebbles smashes hard into an asteroid, losing a considerable amount of speed and getting knocked right off course. The crowd lets out a mixed gasp of thrill of horror, thinking that the impact might have killed her, or crippled her, but a mix of sheer determination and momentum keeps her going for a time. She passes the moving rings without going through them, but is so addled by hitting the asteroid that what she thinks is the finish line isn't a line at all, or on the ground for that matter. Instead she dives into a free fall, losing consciousness!

The cloud elemental announcing for the Medium Race calls out, "Five White Pebbles is disqualified!" The statement only works the spectators up into a furor of concern and, in some cases, morbid excitement as they crane their heads downward to watch her descent. Would someone or something break her fall besides the cold, hard ground? Would they actually be witness to a young Celestial's death?

Goldfinch Altair

On the other hand, those rooting for Goldfinch are far from disappointed. He continues his dazzling routine using every trick he can work in given the confines of the rules. Arrows tied with twine, aimed to ricochet him at increased speed through haphazardly placed rings; daring stunts that sent him hurtling through a series of gold-flaring rings while the Windblade carried on without him; and finally, as Pebbles' lead on him is officially disqualified, spectacularly shattering a series of asteroids into knocking the moving rings into a perfect row. As the young Eclipse passes through the twenty rings with gallant ease, a great many spectators stand up and burst into raucous applause.

"GOLDFINCH! GOLDFINCH! GOLDFINCH!" chant his new fans on the balconies and airship decks as he reaches the end platform with a solid first place finish!

Atmadja Kigal-Usha

Atmadja isn't in the race just to show off. Marshal Sanguinus himself has trained her, and she's eager to show that even as a Terrestrial, she has what it takes to beat some of the best fliers of the Academy student body. Her phoenix warbird flares from within with sheets of Essence that spread out like a second pair of wings, propelling her through complex ring formations with tight and precise maneuverability. Not once does she so much as touch one of the rings as they flare a warm, fiery red-gold at her passing.

Dodging the asteroids is easier now that Goldfinch has broken apart several of the largest ones. Atmadja doesn't even bother entirely avoiding the smaller fragments, allowing them to skim the red jade surface of her flying machine and simply break apart in her wake. By the time she reaches the moving rings, they've shifted back into their normal patterns, but she's completely unfazed. "This is for you, love!!" she shouts exuberantly, the words swallowed up by the rush of wind as she fearlessly takes on the final leg of the race, twisting and spinning and accelerating from ring to ring as if she could predict their shifting patterns with a thought!

Rajha

Rajha flies on with her Essence-wings, unperturbed by fancy moves or machinery. Blotting out the din of the crowds, she recalls her life in the jungle, relying as much on instinct as on skill. Diving through rings at speeds faster than a cheetah is hardly different from dodging leafy boughs and branch whiplash, landing on her tiptoes on one precarious perch only to leap on toward the next! Rajha's six-winged anima unfurls spectacularly, highlighting her serpentine agility as she navigates the moving rings, while her skycutter pulverizes asteroids even further into inconsequential shards. With Pebbles disqualified, she has a good, clear shot at third place.

Edged Blossom

Edged Blossom has already resigned herself to finishing after the top two, pouring her effort not into winning, but getting close enough for a personal best. At one point she and Rajha are nearly neck and neck, her golden anima rippling outward in a storm of razor petals, urging her Windblade forward yard by hard-earned yard. But all of her desire to compete for third place vanishes as she sees Pebbles fall. Some undeniable impulse seizes her, and she diverts sharply from the floating race track, going into a steep dive to catch her. "No!! I'm coming for you, just... just don't die!!!"

At the finish platform

1st: Goldfinch
2nd: Atmadja (61 yards behind Goldfinch)
3rd: Rajha (140 yards behind Atmadja)

Edged Blossom and Five White Pebbles are disqualified.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:14, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

Liarra grins sheepishly up at the crewman.  As she's about to try and talk her way out of it, the girl raises her fan and intercedes on Liarra's behalf.  With a look that screamed, "I certainly owe you one!" she smiled gratefully.  Once again, about to speak, the young rogue-ish Liarra is interrupted by the eruption of noise from the crowds in attendance.  She turns back to the rail, peering out as the races come to their conclusions.

Once the final standings of the medium race conclude, she turns back to Dania, "Yes!  My name is Liarra Shadesong.  I'd be happy to meet the Captain!  If you don't mind, can I ask your name?"  Liarra manages only barely to keep from trying to give Cainus a gloating stare, so instead she shuffles herself closer to the pair.

He could stay there forever.

Somehow, somewhere behind him, he'd passed the speeding Lunar and left her behind; perhaps someplace in the asteroid fields, or during his flight through the rings. He didn't know. But here he was, first at the finish, and the crowds were shouting his name. It... would be a fine memory, for later times.

"No!! I'm coming for you, just... just don't die!!!"

Ehhh?

Oh, hey, there she was, falling... though... the...

...

Into the asteroid fields.

"Oh, Sol have mercy..." And the whole sequence seemed oddly familiar to him; the cloak, the arrows, the four at the string--oh, right. That was only two weeks ago. It felt like forever.

Slicing through the air, his arrows traced the path that he had just traveled, spiraling down towards the falling Pebbles... and, as twine-chased steel looped themselves about the chassis of her wings, his cloak again blossomed into its full, imperious size, snatching the speed away from her form. It possibly could've been enough--except that Pebbles was still falling towards the asteroid field.

He was speeding back down the line, Wingblade thundering in protest, but... "Blossom! Get her!"

Expert Race

Marek and Desus

The two elder Exalts in the lead disappear into the ravine together. Marek uses the superior maneuverability of his warstrider to eke out an early lead, leaving Desus trailing very close behind. The Eclipse allows him to do just that, keeping up a consistent 10 yard gap that closes as the tunnels swallow them up. Desus immediately branches off toward a separate tunnel from Marek, whose advanced warstrider AI attempts to calculate for him the most ideal path. It's not as easy a task as it seems going at top speed, but Marek manages to avoid any obstacles or dead ends -- in some cases, just barely.

When Marek and Desus burst out of the treacherous, enclosed tunnels, they are once again tied for first. People are astonished that Desus has apparently met his match, while many of his fans scoff that he's just lagging behind to make the race more exciting. Others are just plain disappointed at Desus's lack of showmanship, criticizing him for being too jaded to even bother.

It's only at the final leg of the race that Desus goes out of his way to exhibit his talent. He passes the moving barriers with ease, timing it so close at times that they slam inches from his cloak or his simhata's artificial tail. Flying over a pit with a tentacled automaton, he swerves past its appendages so swiftly and with such sudden movements that it tangles itself just to reach him. A flying machine shaped like a wyvern -- some lesser cousin of the thousand-forged dragon perhaps -- attempts to pursue him, and he ducks down past a closing portal at the last minute so that the wyvern-machine is rewarded by a smashed claw and its head colliding with solid metal.

With several hundred yards remaining to the end platform, an automaton in the likeness of a giant naga looms in Desus' way. Rather than swerving to avoid the metallic monster, he approaches head-on and smashes its nose with an iron-fisted sucker punch, his clockwork simhata blasting its hoof-thrusters right over its face just to add insult to injury! The Desus Fan Club lets out a cheer at the sight of his 'signature move'.

The final moments of the race for first place are breakneck and very, very close. In a contest of pure skill, Desus is still Marek's better -- but he is also handicapped, riding a steed that lacks the maneuverability of Wings of Gold. Nonetheless, Desus is the one that finishes first, by a mere 20 yards.

Idiori and Wave

The race continues for the two Intermediate students. By this point it's pretty much moot that they'll even catch up to Marek and Desus, no matter how fiercely competitive they might be. Still, that doesn't mean they ought to stop trying!

It's uncertain whether Vanileth so much as acknowledges Mattel's attempt at a prayer, but as long as he keeps at it, he manages to rally the people in his vicinity to cheer with him. Plenty of the spectators are simply ordinary people vicariously soaking up the excitement, so when a Lunar starts glowing, showing off and chanting, they enthusiastically follow suit! The crowd likes Wave for her youth, her tenacity despite the odds stacked against her, and the courage and almost reckless daring to her maneuvers.

Idiori doesn't attempt to hide that she's having fun, but at the same time is not the type to underestimate her opponent. She doesn't believe for a second that Wave will allow her to keep the lead, and they're well matched oppnents. Wave has a slight speed advantage with her wings, while Idiori's Windblade is slightly more maneuverable, allowing her to squeeze through slim cracks and navigate tightly cramped spaces. The young Lunar slips beneath the crowd's notice more often than not, taking cover within the deep shadows at the bottom or sides of the ravine to keep her movements unpredictable and difficult to track. At the speeds they are going, even Wave sees little more than a glitter of silver at the edge of her vision, as Idiori's leather outfit camouflages her well against the earth.

Little by little, though, the distance between Wave and that sliver of silver closes in. Against the barriers and the automatons, Wave is at the top of her game, using her daiklave when a nimble dodge just isn't enough, smashing through whatever stands in her way. As machine after machine breaks apart spectacularly to her passing, the crowd roars with appreciation for her entertaining lack of subtlety.

Idiori skims past the moving barriers, dodging the remaining automatons with all the grace and reflexes of an experienced Tamar-Kas hunter. She allows herself to be chased, diving and swerving to lead the would-be hunters to topple or trip themselves on rock formations. She hurls slender javelins of silver light to pierce their visual centers, snap their joints or shatter whatever might serve as their brains. But her focus is not on destruction but evasion, her silver-blue aura rippling in the shape of a giant eagle to bolster her natural dexterity.

Unfortunately, the Windblade rider is forced to dodge all the debris Wave leaves behind. At one point she veers sharply and nearly collides with a wall, when the gigantic walking furnace Wave just wrecked explodes right in her midst! Covered with soot, Idiori grits her teeth for a last burst of effort, claiming a very close fourth place.

At the finish platform

1st: Desus
2nd: Marek (20 yards from Desus)
3rd: Wave (150 yards from Marek)
4th: Idiori (20 yards from Wave)
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:27, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

Edged Blossom is completely oblivious and uncaring of the Expert Race results. Hurrying to Pebbles is all that's on her mind right now, her heart pounding so fast she feels her fingers and toes go numb. Have to catch her have to catch her have to catch -- what is he DOING?!

Her thumping heart nearly stops altogether when Goldfinch aims his arrows at poor, falling Pebbles, but his arrows aim around the WINGS this time, not into poor Pebbles' body. Gasping with relief, and swallowing a whole lot of air in the process, she angles her Windblade's swift approach to catch Pebbles as the makeshift parachute slows the Lunar's fall.

-whumpf-

Goldfinch's quick thinking makes the feat easier, but still awkward. Blossom holds onto Pebbles' unconscious body while balancing on her Windblade, maneuvering awkwardly toward the nearest platform. She looks down at the face of the redhead she just caught, her own expression bewildered and scared all at once. What am I doing? Why did I...?

Then she shakes her head. More important things to think about now! Landing on the platform, the young Dawn Caste glares at the people currently occupying it, carrying Pebbles aloft in her arms. "Out of the way, give me space! She's badly hurt! I don't think shoulders are supposed to bend that way and... and she won't wake up! PLEASE say there's someone here who can help her..."

Fortunately, it isn't long before several ADF security guards arrive to direct people away from the platform Blossom landed on. Tachibana Akio flies up personally, accompanied by his Wood Dragon assistant, and instructs Blossom to lay Pebbles down on the platform carefully so he can examine her.

As he does so, the Twilight caste mark shines clearly on his brow, and the spectators behind the security lines watch with bated breath. Finally he states, "She will live. Her body has suffered a great deal of trauma, but Exalted bodies are resilient. However, we must transport her somewhere where I can concentrate and allow her to lie comfortably, healing her will take a couple hours."

"Getting her there without exacerbating her condition is key. Miss, can we use your Windblade a little bit longer?" Once Blossom nods numbly, he uses the Windblade to create a makeshift stretcher for Pebbles, then floats her down toward ground level with the help of Blossom and Briar. Halfway there, they are met by a gliding chariot painted white with the Caduceus in gold on the hood and sides, and Pebbles is very carefully transferred onto the medical transport.

---

OOC: Oops. I miscalculated. Actually, healing her takes shorter than I thought.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:33, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

Comet recorded last of the races, and when top three racers were shown he deactivated his recorder device and said; "I hope Pebbles is alright, that was quite nasty hits she took. Anycase I think now we can meet the captain, lead the way Dania."

Theater Ship Harlequin

"That was... startling indeed!" says Dania, fluttering her fan as if to cool herself down. Even Cainus is distracted by Goldfinch's extravagant finish, Pebbles' near-death plunge and the spectacular end of the Expert races, which leaves the Deadly Sidewinder Canyon full of broken and malfunctioning machinery. The cleanup duty will be daunting.

She addresses Comet, "Oh, we'll see the Captain in good time. He will be in a fine mood now that his favorite has won." Then to Liarra she says, "Good to meet you, Miss Shadesong, my name is Dania. If you don't mind, we will all go to meet our Captain, Brazen Emerald. It will not be long, he simply likes to know everyone who steps foot on his ship. Whether invited or not," she says with a wink, and starts veering Liarra and Comet away from Cainus before he can remember his duty.

Captain Emerald is still seated on the throne set up for him on the rear deck. He is a handsome man with hair the color of autumn leaves, laughing and smiling broadly as he recounts some moments of the recent races. "That girl, Five White Pebbles, she might have wrecked many a bet this afternoon," he remarks to some of the people gathered to speak with him, chuckling over his goblet of wine. "Though it is tragic, even I am not so cruel to be pleased that a young lady was so grievously hurt... oh, what do we have here? Dania?" Brazen Emerald, an obvious Wood Terrestrial in somewhat rumpled green and white finery, glances from the masked lady to the two young and (at least in Liarra's case) somewhat ill dressed students.

Dania gestures to the two to introduce them. "This is Comet and Liarra Shadesong. You asked about the former, and the latter... well, Cainus found her wandering about."

"Ha! I see. I can be persuaded to look away for now, Comet, Liarra, but next time I hope you'll pay properly; I run a tight ship." It's uncertain whether Brazen Emerald is even aware the two are Exalted in any way. "I hope you have enjoyed the Harlequin thus far," the Captain adds more mildly, watching the two with eyes as green as spring leaves.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:33, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

Unexpected casualty aside, the Races are now over and Sultan Aqil-al-Hezbah is not one to shirk on his announcing duties.

"The Festival of Journeys Races are now concluded!" the Air Dragon proclaims, followed by a reading of the final Medium and Expert race standings by his cloud person subordinates. "First prize winners are awarded the personal favor of Vanileth, Shogun of Artificial Flight." (OOC: This is equivalent of a Favor from a 5-point Ally, to be discussed when you meet with Vanileth later. The scale of this favor depends on whether you are a Medium or Expert winner, and how well you get along with Vanileth upon interacting with him.)

"Second prize offers you a chance to broaden your connections and opportunities. We of the Emporium of Aerial Conveyance are well connected among artifact crafters and sellers, and we will extend that favor to you." (OOC: This is essentially a +1 Panoply increase, up to a max of 4 for Medium Race winners, up to a max of 5 for Expert Race winners. You may also request a Backing or Connections Background for the Emporium, Avalle Factory-Cathedrals, Salk Fields Shipyards, or other Northern business related to the construction or distribution of Flight Artifacts. If you already have high Panoply, an Ally related to the same can be considered.)

"Third prize is a commission for a new, or upgraded flight artifact by the Emporium of Aerial Conveyance. If Artifacts do not interest you, we may grant you the service of one or more Elementals in the Emporium's employ, or a simple money prize." (OOC: This is a custom flight Artifact of level 3-4 for Medium, 4 or possibly 5 for Expert. The alternate choice gives an equivalent level of Air Elemental or Bird of Vanileth Henchmen that will remain loyal to you as long as you don't mistreat them. The money prize counts as temporary Wealth, allowing you to bank an Artifact purchase of ANY type, or buy several items that add up to that Artifact's equivalent Wealth.)

"Congratulations are in order," says Aqil-al-Hezbah, apparently quite pleased, despite the fact his business is basically giving things away. They must have made quite the profit during the Festival. "Please come forward to discuss the details of your prize, or if you prefer, we may contact you via I AM at a later date."
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:42, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

As Aqil-al-Hezbah finishes reading off the prizes, Desus leaps off from the Expert finish platform with his Clockwork Simhata, and approaches the venerable Air Dragon. A whispered conversation passes between them, leading to looks of surprise on the faces of the cloud elementals in earshot. Then Desus abruptly turns away from the group of them, returning to the other Expert racers.

"Good for you, Marek, you got close enough I felt you breathing down my neck," he remarks casually to the Professor, smiling at him broadly, then looks to Wave and Idiori. "And I'd like to see you two race with artifacts that could match ours. See to it that you obtain them."

"We may see each other tonight, if you've been invited. Farewell." And with that the Eclipse Caste is off, winging his way back to the First Rule of Conquest to prepare for the evening banquet.

For many of the ordinary folk, the end of the Races means the end of the Festival. Balconies and sky bridges start to clear of people as they head to the ground level, possibly to make a last pass at the Festival market as it closes up shop, or to find a pub or bar to continue the celebration indoors.

Many airships remain serenely afloat as the sun descends toward the horizon, hosting private parties for Terrestrials or well-to-do mortals. Several more begin to drift back toward their landing platforms, or (once their Exalted lords and ladies return) change heading toward the direction of the Palace of the Founders.

Chief among the vessels headed to the Palace is the ivory-and-gilded White Queen II, throwing an impressive shadow over the festival grounds as she carries Princess Sophia, Shogun Vanileth and the rest of her entourage. Sophia's airship leads a procession toward the evening banquet, flanked by two Firdaus battleships, the crimson-hued Blood Lance and the forbiddingly obsidian Blackbird. Lord-Captain Anansi's beloved Invierna appears to be preparing to follow, as well.

Rajha barely noticed the commotion around Five White Pebbles, she was so exhausted from the effort of the race, and was huffing and puffing on her knees. The place awards went through her head, but didn't click until she looked up at the standing boards. Goldfinch...Atmadja...wait, was that her?

Only then did she see the disqualifications, and looked back at Pebbles' landing point, only to wince at the medics and Edged Blossom standing around her. "Oh no," she murmured, and tried to reactivate her wings to fly over...and failed, as she simply didn't have the Essence to fly another inch. Still, Pebbles looked like she was in good hands and on another platform. She'd make sure to talk to her later to make sure she was alright.

Rajha came back to her feet, shook her head briefly to clear it, and began walking towards Aqil al-Hezbah. "Um. I'm not very familiar with the specifics of artifacts, but I know I want a new artifact. Can you direct me to the Emporium's people so I can look over what I'll be getting?"

The Air Dragon blinks down at Rajha over his massive snout, and nods his whiskered head. "Of course, they are at the same booth at which you obtained your wings." After noticing Rajha's wings have, in fact, sputtered out and are no longer glowing, he lets out a chuckle that sends a blast of warm vaguely tingly air her way. "Ah, you have expended yourself. Then I shall transport you there myself."

And Aqil-al-Hezbah does just that. Being picked up and dropped off by a large Terrestrial spirit is an odd feeling for one unused to it, but also rather convenient. Rajha very soon finds herself at the Emporium's tents, where one of the ubiquitous helpful cloud people smiles and waves her inside.

"Congratulations on your win," says the cloud spirit that greeted Rajha, a female with bells in her hair. Another air elemental floats nearby with arms crossed; given the tools at his belt he is probably one of the crafters. "You are interested in a custom artifact, then? Though you could request a standard design if you wish, the prize you have been offered allows you to order something designed to your preferences."

"Our specialty, as you know, are artifacts that provide artificial flight," the crafter-elemental picks up from there. "Do you have any idea what other capabilities you would desire? You may perhaps use a factory-made artifact as a basis, to make something truly unique."

Rajha considered for a moment. "Well, I want something about like what Pebbles was using...but you know, a long cape gets in the way of moving freely on land. Maybe something like Marek's machine has on it?" She pantomimed the extending wings. "A harness like these pinions, with the wings extending from it."

After working with the artificer for a bit (and discussing with a more poetic and airheaded saleselemental to get a name), she thought she had something down.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:37, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

The feeling of Vanileth watching over her hadn't incited the worry in Wave it should have during the race. She'd die before she let any god put fear into her and so it came as something of a surprise as she steeled herself that he wasn't doing it out of malice for lagging so far behind but a sense of approval at her methods, something that the crowd seemed to share. She felt a little bit better knowing that the victory won here was minor and would soon be forgotten, but they'd remember how she'd played.

Wave let out a sigh of relief as the race order becomes clear none the less, Third place. Coming last would have been painful no matter the display she put on and she'd have to improve. In truth, if she'd ever been realistic in her aims she'd have known it was the best placing she could have hoped for with only a week of training and a store bought artifact. It had held up well enough, but the league she'd entered demanded better and though she'd had a lesson in why age mattered, she still wasn't done trying to excel over her betters quite yet.

Accepting defeat with a smile and all the grace she could muster, Wave couldn't fault Desus on his words. It was a brief acknowledgement of potential talent but he'd taken notice of it and more importantly her. When it came to exalts that old, not to mention that famous, it was a good first impression to make. He was off before she could even get in a reply, far too busy to hang about talking and she realized that while not very much else, they at least had that in common.

Other matters would just have to wait though, she wanted to set things here to rest. Giving Marek a polite bow of respect, she turns to Idiori and does the same. "You really did make me fight for that, how you managed to try fend me off was impressive." she says to Idiori, honestly meaning it "If not for a little luck on my part I think the outcome would have been different. Tell me, are you going to the Banquet as well?"

- "Good race Wave, just arriving at the end line in this course is an acomplishment few could match at your age and you did good with the equipement you had, let me know when you have a Royal Warstrider and I'll give you wings for it, so the next time is more fun. I guess I still have to train more, and learn some Charms since I didn't knew any that could help me in the race." Said Marek to Wave, who was already talking to the other racer. "And who might you be beautiful lady? You also managed to reach the end so I have to congratulate you."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:34, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

As the final standing and various announcements are read, Idiori pushes up her goggles and unbuttons her flight jacket. She shrugs it off her shoulders and tying it back around her waist. She lets her hair loose from its bindings, the damp golden-brown waves tumbling down nearly to her waist. Then she picks up her moonsilver Windblade and tucks it in a compact form under her arm.

Watching her, one gets the feeling this is a typical ritual for her. Putting on the trappings of the hunter and rider one by one, then at the end of the day taking them back off, becoming once again the amiable, easygoing woman she is underneath.

"I'm not sure I did that well at fending you off, Wave, as much as trying to avoid the destruction in your wake," Idiori says with a laugh at Wave's comment to her. She seems to be taking her last place position well enough. "I wouldn't want to go head to head with you. Now indirectly with a field advantage and some well-placed cover..." Idiori doesn't finish the sentence, just grins. "It was honestly a pleasure to compete with you, though. It reminded me how much I have left to learn. I'm great at hunting animals, but keeping up with Exalts? I'll need a lot more training yet."

Turning to Marek she sticks a gloved hand out in introduction. "My name's Idiori, I'm a hunter from Tamar-Kas. And Chosen of Luna, though honestly that part I'm still adjusting to. And thanks for the compliment, I'm just glad to know my eyebrows are still intact. You folks are the real stars."

She pats her brows, just to make sure they're still there, then addresses the matter of the banquet. "Honestly, I hadn't a clue there even was a Banquet. So it's some sort of exclusive thing? I just got here, honestly, so I doubt I'd have an invitation." Idiori seems completely unconcerned about whether she has one or not.

- "I did knew about the banquet but with the parade and the race I felt it would be too much if I also went to the banquet so I never sent any message to Princess Sophia. Keeping with Desus exausted almost all the essence I had left after the presentation to Lord Vanileth. But enough of that. I presume you are a new arrival at Anthenegia since I haven't seen you before, and I can also presume you have been Exalted only recently since I haven't seen you in the last Lunar gathering I participated. I'm Marek, Professor of Sorcery and Engineering."

"I'll do that Professor Marek" says Wave in response to his offer "Although it may be some time before I'm extended that level of trust with siege weapons. Reaching the end wasn't the difficult part, it was doing it in a good time. I forgot the importance of thorough preparation and suffered for it, but at least it's given me insight into where to improve"

She looks back down at the still smoking wrecks and can't help a wry smile "I just didn't want to turn and slow down in this case. Perhaps I did waste a bit too much time there, although I never even realised it'd slow down those behind me. Something to remember for next time "

Checking her resplendent assistant she sighs and turns to Idiori "Sadly it may well be a little late to join in yourself, usually I'd say it was a trivial matter not having an invite but in this case Sophia is hosting and she's not someone I'd want to inconvenience. I've already committed myself to being there, so sadly I should be going. I do look forward to speaking more though, I'll see you around the school and I'll try arrange a meeting by I AM for a few games of Go and some talk. There's few martial minded students so far that I've found, it'll be a welcome change to have another to talk too. Thank you both for sharing the field with me, we'll meet again."

As a parting word it had a strong sense of inevitability about it, as if because she'd said so Creation wasn't allowed to prove her wrong. Wave paces away to have a small aside with an air elemental before she leaves the platform, explaining that she'll be in contact with the Emporium after the banquet to put ideas for her prize into motion if anyone was still awake to listen. If there was going to be a delay on her end then she'd send word by I AM and arrange a new time. With the matter quickly settled she flexes her wings and takes off to the skies accompanied by the fading glow of white light around her as the residue of the race slowly wears off. A few preparations for the banquet left to complete she goes with all speed to attend to them, hopefully without the pitfalls this time.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:30, Wed 21 Oct 2009.

The Windblade hums, and banks to a stop besides the medical transport, carrying a rather worried Goldfinch atop it. Second time I shot someone in the past two weeks. Hope it's not turning into a habit. Well, at least this time he didn't cause bloody wounds as part of his rescue--that had to be a bonus of sorts.

Also, trick arrows. You need to buy trick arrows. They couldn't be that expensive, and Anthegenia was milling with magitech artisans...

But not right now, hm?

"Blossom? Is she going to be alright?" With one arm, he scooped up the cloak where it'd been removed from Pebbles' wing harness, throwing it over one shoulder like a voluminous towel. "Sol's light, thank the gods you were close enough to catch her. A little bit further and..." Back into the asteroid clouds, getting hit by massive rocks in every direction...

Right. Let's not complete that sentence, shall we?

Comet bows to the captain and while smiling he replies; "Yes sir, you have quite fine ship here. Although this is out my usual preferred taste of quality what I am used to but your ship was departing in good time to see start of the race and other ship was delayed by a lot because of long line. Your ship was departing when I arrived landing platform so I took iniative to hop in, but I did plan pay once I am onboard. I hope this covers my and lady Liarra's ride." Comet takes out from his vest pocket hard mote which Dianora had given to him, showing it to the captain while waiting his answer.

Liarra blushes a deep scarlet before the captain.  Bowing her head, she looks into those leaf-green eyes, "Yes, Captain Emerald Sir.  I'll make extra effort to remember that for the next time I come aboard your magnificent airship."

She marvels at Comet as he so generously offers to make restitution for her.  Liarra shuffles her feet kind of nervously, but otherwise holds no objections to his request.  Very rarely does she find herself the subject of such direct scrutiny, and it's made her more than a little uncomfortable it seems.

Caduceus Medical Transport

Doctor Akio allows Goldfinch to reclaim his cloak and arrows, raising a somewhat bemused eyebrow. He'd been there when Goldfinch did a similar trick on Crewman Reis from the Lazuli. Unfortunately, he is much too busy ensuring Pebbles is transported safely to make much of a comment in that direction.

Meanwhile, Blossom looks at Goldfinch with an odd mix of worry and confusion. "Oh... oh they said she'd be fine. They have Wound Mending Needles, over in the Medical Center, though if she weren't Exalted they said she'd be squished like a bug... But I was so scared! I just saw her fall, and something snapped..." A small shudder goes through the auburn haired girl's body.

Sweet Briar, Akio's Terrestrial assistant, says gently, "She'll be up and about soon. If you wish to accompany her to the hospital, you can."

Pebbles has been transferred to the gliding chariot now, laid down on a proper stretcher with Akio attending personally. The rear doors remain open for a time, just in case Blossom or Goldfinch (or anyone else concerned over Pebbles' health!) will take on Briar's offer.

Theater Ship Harlequin

Brazen Emerald's eyebrows raise sharply when Comet pulls out the Hard Mote. He puts down his glass of wine, suddenly serious. "By gods, you're one of Dianora's men. Impressive. Dania, you'll take care of the accounting won't you, dear?"

Dania, meanwhile, is gaping like a fish out of water, and finally the woman with the sequined mask has the presence of mind to nod. "I-it was good to meet you both!" she says quickly, curtsying deeply to Comet, to Liarra, and then to Comet again. "Have a good rest of the Festival!" Then she heads into the crowd, no longer dancing or lingering, but lifting her skirts to hurry below deck.

"What's the rush, honey?" someone calls out to her, but Dania doesn't even pause, completely focused on her task.

"There. That should take care of everything. Though I would hope the Lady Dianora would send prior warning next time, I would have loved to be better prepared for the arrival of her good friends," Captain Emerald says apologetically, addressing both Comet and Liarra. "Be that as it may, are you headed elsewhere? The Harlequin is prepared to bring you wherever you need."

Emporium of Aerial Conveyance

"That is a worthy beginning," says the craft-elemental, "and basing on previous designs, as I suggested, allows us to save some time in the crafting process. Let us see where we can go from there with this concept."

Rajha spends the better part of an hour discussing with the elementals at the Emporium the details of her new, custom wings. The cloud person with bells in her hair makes tidy notes on materials required, gods that will need petitioning and Exalts whose aid may be enlisted to expedite the alteration. The craft-elemental sketches elaborate diagrams to illustrate the features and details Rajha has requested.

Finally, a rough blueprint has been formed, a list of specifications confirmed, and several more spirit and elemental aides have checked over and given their own suggestions in turn. At the conclusion, the bell-haired one says, "I believe it may still take a week or two for the construction. We will use the wings you have now as a base, if you do not mind. There is a shuttle nearby this platform that should take you where you need to go."

"We will send correspondence to you to let you know the progress and time of delivery." With that all the gathered elementals greet Rajha farewell with a simultaneous bow.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:14, Fri 23 Oct 2009.

"Blossom. Don't worry. Anthegenia here has some of the finest doctors in all Creation, and more besides; hjhow else could it be teaching us wannabe Solars, hm? I daresay that Lord Akio here has already forgotten five times as much as most doctors ever know, and the good doctor never forgets anything unless it's long obsolete." He gave the older Exalt a wry smile, and added, "Probably not even then."

"So, if... ah, Sweet Brair, is it? If the Lady Brair says she'll be fine, she will be, and nothing in either Heaven nor Earth will dare contradict her words. Its what we silly Solars do, isn't it? And the thing to remember in all this is that--you did save her. She's here, she's alive, and very soon, she'll be perfectly fine in both body and soul. Everything else is a lost possibility that did not happen, so just forget about them, alright? You're a Solar too, and you reached out and said she will not fall," the last words coming out in a rough approximation of Blossom's own voice, "and lo! here she is. So everything's fine now, and all we have to do is to go see her, and wait for her to wake up, ok?" He placed his hands on her shoulders, and gently pushed her towards the waiting chariot. "So come on. I'm sure she'll want to see her saviour when she wakes."

"Well, have fun, Wave. I'll be sure to link up with you later, I'm sure we've got plenty to talk about over a few friendly games." Idiori looks a little disappointed they can't talk longer, but satisfies herself by watching Wave fly off, with an appreciative look for her beauty and form.

Afterward she turns back to Marek, so as not to be rude. "Well, nice to meet you Professor, but I'm thinking I'd like to head down to unwind." Idiori stifles a yawn, stretches fitfully, then lets her Windblade go so that it drifts down toward the level of her feet. Stepping on, she gives a last salute to Aqil-al-Hezbah and anyone else still on the platform, and slowly drifts back down to ground level.

Surely there'd be a nice pub or restaurant for her to drink and dine in peace, before finding her way to her apartment for the night.

Liarra.. isn't quite sure what to make of the last few moments.  She bows her head respectfully to the Captain, leaning close to Comet to whisper, "I'm not quite sure who this Lady Dianora is, but you have my thanks for covering my passage."  She looks up at the captain, keeping herself close to Comet.  She smiles pleasantly, continuing, "Dear Captain, while I couldn't possibly speak for my friend here, I must admit that I should be making my way to the academy now.  With the races over, and Onesday approaching rapidly, I should really go buckle down on my registration for tomorrow morning.  I would much like, once again, to thank you for such grand hospitality.  I do look forward to my next trip aboard the Harlequin."</b>

Caduceus Medical Transport

Goldfinch's words seem to have a soothing effect on the excitable Dawn Caste. Either that or he's just that convincing a speaker (of course he is). "You're right... I'll go and stay with her. And I wouldn't dare question the skill of Anthegenian medicine! So she'll be fine. Okay. Good!" Deep breath in, deep breath out.

As Edged Blossom ducks into the chariot with Sweet Briar, holding her Windblade in daiklave form, she turns back one last time to say, "Thanks a lot, Goldfinch. You're a good person, and you totally deserve that first prize. Oh and hey, I may be in town a little longer! But if not, come to Deheleshen some time, so I have someone to talk to besides White Crane babbling in my ear all day. Bureaucracy this, etiquette that... oops! I think we're moving now! Bye...!"

The rear doors of the transport close. As it starts floating away toward the Medical Center, Goldfinch can see Blossom sitting next to Akio at Five White Pebbles' side, holding her hand while the Doctor's caste mark continues to glow.

Theater Ship Harlequin

"Oh, I do wish it could have lasted longer, but it is getting late for a young student. Even one who is blessed by the Incarna. Color me surprised a second time, I had not pegged you as an Academy student," Captain Emerald says ruefully, intrigued by the latest new discovery. "I do not know when the Harlequin will visit this fair city next, but feel free to come find us when we do."

He gives a command to the pilot to maneuver the ship toward the Academy (which, fortunately, is on the way to the Palace of the Founders). An announcement is given to the other celebrating passengers to expect the brief drop in altitude. "We'll drop you off at the Grand Courtyard, that should put you close enough to your dorm, Liarra."

Then the Wood Terrestrial in the green coat and cravat glances at Comet again. "Will you be leaving the ship with her, or would another location be suitable?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:15, Fri 23 Oct 2009.

...well, that settles that. Bit of him still worried that Pebbles' wasn't quite as--no, hush, you stop it, you just talked Blossom down from a wild panic, and you most definitely not allowed to start one yourself.  That's be... silly. And probably ironic, in all the wrong ways. Besides, (an this one pressed on him, a little), you had someplace to be, and someone waiting for you.

(It seemed... odd, in a way. Just a little while ago, he'd been running a race; now, well... it seemed like it was time to go, for awhile, and show back up at the banquet in time. Anti-climactic? Perhaps that was the word; there'd been the feeling of, of being a hero, and now everyone was heading home.)

But, hey, he'd done some good in between; and that in itself felt like enough. Probably.

Cloak swirling, he turned and headed back... home.

Rajha stripped off her Phoenix Pinions, then bowed in turn and took the shuttle back down to the dorms. She would have time to rest and change for the banquet...especially some rest...
This message was last edited by the player at 08:27, Fri 23 Oct 2009.

Comet was bit shocked from reactions of folks when he pulled out the hard mote, soon realizing besides wealth what the mote carries it also bears reputation of Dianora with it! Knowing her 'businesses' he takes it is more intimidation factor than pleasant reputation Comet quickly speaks to the captain; "Oh, no need make big rush out from it. I just came to this ship random and just hopped in quickest ride I could get." Comet was not sure what to make to captain's assumptions regarding Comet's relation to Dianora. As Comet is not completely sure yet what make of it. Although it obviously bears some 'benefits' but Comet dislikes take advantage of someone such manner. When Liarra is dropped on academy Comet replies; "Although I am student also but I need pick up my banquet clothes from Thalia, the Eminent Weaver shop. Then go back here on academy on the Grand Foyer."

Theater Ship Harlequin

"An outfit from Thalia's! What am I saying, I should know better than to be surprised by you now. Though I am pleased you thought this vessel at least swift enough for your purposes."

Again Captain Emerald rubs his chin thoughtfully, considering Comet's needs. "I've an even better idea, I will send a message straight to Thalia's shop, and have them send someone to deliver it straight here. So you can change while we land for Miss Liarra here."

The entirety is arranged very easily with the help of I AM. Liarra is dropped off first at the Academy, followed by many well-wishes from Emerald and others, and the flying servitor from Perfect Opal comes bearing Comet's shimmering white gold outfit. A room is set aside for Comet to change in.

When he is done, the Harlequin makes its way to the Palace of the Founders. Before Comet disembarks, Brazen Emerald says carefully and rather formally, "I do hope you'll put in a good word for me to Lady Dianora. We are all most respectful of her at the Harlequin, and mindful of the influence she wields."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:08, Sat 24 Oct 2009.

Comet nods to the captain and replies; "I will Captain, good journeys and winds for you." Comet then waits ship close in to the grand Foyer close enough he can leap down the rest of the distance safely, waving to the crew after he has safely landed.

<Moving to Grand Foyer>