(Moved from Chapter 1)

Frank is there at the Gateway of the Path to the Center. He did not even bother engaging in conversation with the water royalty that's there since he knew nobody would be watching so it'd be his word against King Urser's as to what all has been said.

Shelly is there with her father King Maximus Urser. But something is different. Rather than the King wearing the crown, Shelly is. She is seen smiling and playing with a handheld gaming system.

Also there is a team of 6 cherubs. The li'l angels are all sitting in a circle, praying. Upon everyone's arrival, the cherubs stand up and line up in an almost military fashion in greeting to the new arrivals. No saluting, though.


Interestingly, Murla, the queen of darkness, is also there. She has an amused smile on her face and a slight sneer like she sees everyone here as her playthings.

Miraculously, the current King of Thunder is here as well. He is holding a staff and looks at Raichel with a nervous look.

The only others of note here are a huge rock monster standing about 20 feet tall and some beautiful man with white hair dressed in off-white/grey robes and holding a large wooden staff that looks more like a stick found in the woods. The only person besides Raichel who might know THESE two would be Blake, but he isn't likely here for a number of reasons. Speaking of whom, there is no representative from Death. That is unsurprising.

The place is certainly magical looking. There is a rainbow colored path made of who-knows-what and seems to converge from paths that stretch off to the various planets. The path just stops at the gate. People can not see a path on the other side of the gate and any attempt to go to the other side of the gate simply shows the person the backside of the gate. It is clearly an extra-dimensional gate of sorts.

The gateway itself is simply that. A large, thick gate that seems to be made of every attribute whether blunt or otherwise. For instance, it's existence hints at it being made of order. But the gate is not consistent, continually mutating before one's very eyes, making it also seem to be made of chaos. Interlaced throughout the gate are fire, water, lightning, vines/tree branches , and an unsettling low-pitch grinding sound like lions growling and metal twisting can be heard from it. The gate forms eyes when everyone is gathered. The eyes are made of pure light, only interrupted by the skulls it has for pupils. It turns its gaze directly at each person there.

The place quakes a little, the sounds of the gate get slightly louder and the quake slowly passes. In the same sound that gate sounds have been growling with, a voice can be heard coming from the general direction of the gate, "Get familiar with each other. When you are ready, I will give you the rules."

Prism Jr. and Sr. have spent the trip debating within and between themselves telepathically about whether or not to annex the smaller colony back into the larger one, and if so how to go about doing it.  The debate gets rather heated and intense, so Prism tends to be out-of-it and does not comment on the giants conversations unless addressed directly.  Not that they would have commented much anyway since they tend to keep politely quiet among royals.

Depending on the length of the trip, Mits would have spent her time with casual meet-and-greet.  Of course, her idea of such focuses less on who you are and why you're going and more on what you do.  That's just how adventurers do things where she comes from.  Few care about your back story, just whether you're up to the task at hand.  Nobody wants a gimp mage on the team when entering Dynamis.

"I'm a level 75 Red Mage with maxed out merits and sub-jobs," she'd explain, "And also a Black Mage with decent gear.  Meaning I'm heavy into elemental and enfeebling magics with a side of healing magic and swordplay."

She pat-pats her Joyeuse with a proud smile.

"I've soloed all the elemental avatars no prob, been hailed as a hero in several nations, and helped take down several gods along with innumerable hyper-notorious monsters.  Lately I've been acting as a stand-in monarch for the Fire Nation.  OH!  And I play a mean flute too!  Not quite level 75 bard yet, but... judge for yourself!"

She plays a pleasant up-beat magical tune on her flute as various notes and such appear and float around her.

---

Upon arrival, Mittens is very very happy.  Water monarchs to answer Frank's challenge!  Nifty cutscene showing off exotically frightening yet beautiful scenery!  Angelic beings guarding a portal of DOOM!  This is what she LIVES for!  ADVENTURE!

"Well hello there!" she greets with a big smile, "Mittens is the name and adventure's my game!  You two are members of the Water Nation's royal family I take it?  A pleasure!  Safe to assume you caught that live broadcast?  Well herrre's Frank!"

Mittens presents Frank like some kind of game-show host.

"Oh..." she lightbulbs, "Name tags!  Someone get them name tags.  And the cute angels too... if they'll be joining us on our journey?"

She smiles questioningly at the cherubs as if she's Dora expecting an answer from the audience.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:58, Sun 23 May 2010.

  Darkthorne considers the nametag handed to him, and the various shopping lists of magical ability around him his senses and scans pick apart the capacities of (as if this will amount to anything though).

  'More interesting frame at least than the last one of those I saw.' He thinks regarding the portal.  Of course back then he and those with him were geared up to take out a pantheon as opposed to what could be considered Newb Starting Gear for a Sci-Fi FPS Darkthorne currently had.

  Darkthorne crumples up the tag offered to him, and puts on one from his own pockets.  "When you have time, could you elaborate on the methods you personally put to use when finishing the Deities off?" Do not offer to send a strikeforce after gods.  While often tempting Kasketon has enough to deal with at home without sending off decent gear and people until it became a necessity.

J'Renn dosen't seem to be doing much of anything to pilot the vessel, rather she people watches as the royals mingle on the habitation deck of her vessel, basically a giant park with 30-odd foot tree in the middle, and small streams througout feeding into a small pond.  All over the park are several round tables with drinks, and small hors d'ouerves, as one is taken, another diffrent drink or morsel is offered.

Once they have landed and isembarked J'Renn instructs her vessel to get a full scan of the area.  She also makes sure she is the last to exit her vessel before locking it down.

When they drop off at the Gateway of the Path to the Center and wander onto the rainbow-colored path, Cham can't help but look every which way as rapidly as possible, sprouting several heads at the peak of his excitement.

After a few seconds of that, however, Cham pulls his heads back in and hops into a go-kart that pops into existence right below him. As the rest of the group walks the rainbow road to the Gateway, he putters alongside them, whistling. He pulls out a banana and considers eating it, but he decides to save it for later.

After Mittens handed out nametags, Cham actually discarded the one she gave to him and pulled out a red vest with a big, white nametag already on it. Of course, it reads 'Cham' in black letters. For now, he's using this as his primary attire.

When they reach the wild-looking gate, Cham forgoes any introduction to the new faces and seems absolutely fascinated by the gate. He drives up to it and slides around to either side of it to see if he can find where it goes. Several times, he even tries sticking his arm through it and waving his hand around on the other side.

At the imposing voice from the gate, Cham actually frowns, his cart disappearing beneath him as he plops to the ground and folds his arms, "Huh? Rules? Grrr.... no fair! Those are boring!" Sticking his tongue out briefly, he moves his hands to his ears and sticks his fingers inside while humming a little tune.


Sadly, Agent Superball went missing during the period between chapters. Some reports indicate that he deflated like a balloon shortly after announcing Cham to the party. The universe may never know...

During the trip over and currently, Paula has stayed very quiet and kept close to Miranda. She tries to make eye-contact with the King of Life every so often, but she looks away with a blush whenever he looks back.

She doesn't seem scared of the new company, but she IS clearly anxious around them, wondering what all of their goals here seem to be.

When they reach the Gate, her fur stands partly on end at all of the wild energy around it, and she takes a step back when the eyes form and start to speak. Again, she stays quiet, but she watches the gate warily between periods of looking around at the others collected there.

During the trip, Alexis is silent. While she considers Mittens a total egotistical braggart, she still finds that better than eager to go to war with Nature. She really didn't comment, which means inevitably, Mittens would have poked her to talk.

Alexis says, "I have no idea what you mean by Level 75 or Red Mage or Black Mage or Bard. I don't believe you when you say you have soloed the elemental avatars and not even your nation would believe that without seeing it. And gods? Maybe. If they are gods like Raichel. The term "god" varies in power from one world to the next. If you're trying to prepare us to work together towards a goal, don't tell us what you've accomplished, but rather what kind of abilities you have. Of all the things you said, the only things that were believable or made sense were the mention of elemental magics, enfeebling magics, healing magic, swordplay and playing a flute. Which you do nicely."

Upon arriving, Alexis has a look around. She seems a little intimidated by the gate, but otherwise keeps her cool.

Alexis says to Murla, Max and Shelly, "Greetings, your lordships."

----

Doug was silent on the trip there, though when asked what he can do, he would inform Mittens that he would not be joining the group to the core.

The guy who gave Darkthorne his nametag seems downright offended and continues with nametag giving, while giving Darkthorne the evil eye. When Cham discards his, the guy gets upset enough to stoop to kindergarden level and says to Cham, "Copycat! Darkthone just did that! You're just doing it to look cool like him, aren't you, little mr suck-up!"

When asked what she can do, Raichel would simply say, "You saw me at the arena. That is what I can do. Simple." Simple, sure, but she has found so many ways, devastating and otherwise, to use her 'simple' powers.

Upon arriving, Raichel greets the royalty present. She isn't worried about Cham not listening to the rules as she has heard them before and knows the consequences are bearable.

Timothius would have informed Mittens his capability is healing, more or less. He usually smiled to Paula whenever making eye contact, only to seem surprised whenever she looked away. Upon arriving, he greets the royalty just like Alexis and Raichel did. He recognizes the cherubs and says, "Hey there... are you here representing the Light Kingdom for this outing to the core?"

Miranda stays with Paula just as much as Paula stays with Miranda. She often puts an arm around the skunkette whenever Paula seems even remotely uncomfortable. However, upon arrival and the gate declaring now is time to get familiar, she steps over to the others and says, "My name is Miranda Murdock. I'm here representing the Nation of Order."

Shelly nods to Mittens in response to whether she is a member of the Water Kingdom's royal family.

Frank clears his throat. "Seems the gate is rushing us a little. Anyhow, I shall re-issue the challenge that I declared on television. I challenge the Water Kingdom's royalty to a one-on-one fight with me."

Shelly says, "I have been given temporary authority over the crown, making me the Queen of Water. As royalty, I represent the entire Kingdom of Water and, as such, if any one Water Kingdom Citizen fights you, it is as though I fight you. And if I fight you, it is as though one of my citizens fights you. As such, I am entitled to choose a champion to fight you on my behalf."

Frank says, "What'd I tell ya? Too wimpy to fight me themselves."

Shelly looks at Max in a "help, daddy!" kind of way.

The cherubs nod to Mittens and Timothius as they accept name tags. Gabriel says, "We are here to represent Light. Only to help if needed, but otherwise watch. We are not here to collect on the reward of the core unless it is agreed on by all others involved." he glances at Murla. "Which seems unlikely."

Murla, Queen of Darkness, says, "I will be joining in the trip to the core."

The King of Thunder says, "As am I."

The Gateway is silent, not saying one way or another if it cares that Cham is plugging his ears.

J'Renn's scans would show that this place is made of everything and even some things unknown to the ship. And by "everything", we mean every element, energy type, dark matter, etc. The gate's "eyes" look in the direction of the ship when it is scanning the gate. The ship would detect being scanned back. But then again, it would also detect that the gate is scanning everyone and everthing present.

The gate is scanning mechanical, biological, spiritual and magical composition. It isn't reading minds or anything like that. Not that it'd work in Darkthorne's case, but that's beside the point.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:02, Sat 12 June 2010.

Mittens welcomes those who bother to introduce themselves such as Miranda.  She smiles and enjoys the distraction that Cham provides, satisfied that she was right that Agent Superball was Cham and thusly not noticing his absence.  In reply to Darkthorne's question she rubs her chin and raises a finger as if considering how to answer.  She makes no indication of being offended by Darkthorne or Cham choosing to display their names with a different method.  If anything she looks amused by her childish sounding minion.  Speaking of which, she makes it a point to point out that Frank is representing Frank, not her.

"The opinions expressed by Frank are not necessarily those of the staff, management, or sponsors of the Fire Nation," Mittens points out with a big smile, "I'm sure the champion she chooses will be of royal blood in accordance with your challenge and the reason she's not kicking your butt herself is because she's got more important things to do at the moment.  Such as kick down the gates to the Heart of the Universe!  Isn't that right..."

She reads the nametag.

"Queen Shelly.  I wish I could stick around for the fight... unless it's so one-sided it only takes a few seconds in which case I'll be more than happy to stick around."

Mittens takes note of the Cherub's intro and raises an eyebrow.

"Thank you for offering your help," she says, "I'll be surprised if it's not needed given Raichel's hype about how tough this all is.  As for your offer to not collect the core reward..."

She looks over at Raichel.

"You'd be the one to let us know if the core accepts more than one question from a given group.  Is it one question per person?  How exactly does that work?"

Then to Darkthorne.

"To answer your question takes some time, but well worth it.  Where I come from, when a group of powerful heroes agree to fight as a unit against a smaller threat, they usually team up in a group of six or so.  Within the group, there's certain roles that need to be covered in order for the group to work together effectively.  Generically, the roles are: Tank, Damage Dealer, and Support.  The Tank's primary job is to engage the monster directly and anger it enough that it focuses it's attention on the Tank who's generally the best prepared for such attention.  I usually don't fill this role.

"Damage dealer focus heavily on being prepared to dish out damage, but not so much take a hit.  So their role is to unload massive damage on the monster with enough subtlety and finesse that the monster pays attention to the tank and not the rest of the group.  I sometimes fill this role as a black mage.

"The support member's jobs is to aid the other two roles with anything from healing..."

She casts a heal spell on Timothius.

"to buffing allies,"

She casts a protective spell on him.

"to enfeebling enemies.  I tend to fill this role most often what with my bazillion buffs, heals, and enfeebles.

"These groups usually have an agreed upon system for dividing any spoils they should acquire such as rolling dice, highest roll wins.  They also have a designated leader among them who's job it is to invite people to the group as needed or kick them out as needed.

"Now.  When up against a SERIOUS threat like a god or an army, much more preparation is involved.  There's usually TEAMs that fill the roles described.  Damage teams, and a tank teams.  Support members are distributed among the two kinds of teams.  When against an army there's usually one person who's designated as the 'puller' who's job it is to find a lone enemy squad and lure them to the waiting heroes.  The primary tank winds up with the job of being the tactical leader while someone else may fill the role of strategic leader.  I suggest we make Raichel the strategic leader of this raid given that she's the only one here who's done this before... right?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:41, Sat 12 June 2010.

Prism Jr. and Sr. finally came to a consensus and re-united quietly.  They consider the exchange so far and decide that they just might be able to diffuse an ugly political bomb.

"Different cultures have different languages," Prism says, "It's possible the water kingdom doesn't speak the cultural language of fire challenges. But Mittens has shown that she's willing to speak peace as best she can. If Water were to answer Fire with the culture of fire, perhaps fire would show more respect and learn a phrase or two of water."

Mittens nods in approval.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:49, Sun 13 June 2010.

  Darkthorne finds that one of the pre Plot-Armor Piercing Weapons era methods seems to be in use according to Mittens.  Altering Inverse Ninja Law into Vicious Gang Beating.  A complete lack of mentioning just what methods were actually use to kill said entities, but still a much better answer than expected.

  That and Darkthorne had that important trace of political tact that meant not telling a Queen 'your elaborate answer sucks' (yet).  "Thank you, Queen Mittens.  Your experience could save lives if we encounter a hostile entity self identifying as IAM.  As an exploration agent I am not equipped to deal with those that can unmake reality at whim."  Two years, half the remaining Kasketon population, and all semblance of hospitability left on the planet were gone by the time that one was driven off.  After that, repeat attacks from similar entities and anything else causing duress to Kasketon lost their sense of scale.  It was like complaining about that monster from 'The Host' after dealing with Godzilla.

  They look over to the ranting over nametags guy. "Well, the last nametag someone gave me exploded.  I know the one you gave me doesn't, but it's just kind of a thing, you know?"  To be fair, the nametag exploded after Darkthorne stuck it on the guys back.

  Looking over to Alexis they comment "It is true that there is a wide scale for Deities, as well as the opinions of what makes a Deity.  It is no slight to Raichel when I say she does not qualify as one to me, even if she can blow me up."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:31, Sun 13 June 2010.

With the group boasting about thier abilities she listens in on the surface thoughts of everyone present save for Prism, who's just too much white noise, and Joe, who still dosen't register in her mind.  Once handed a name tag she writes her name down on it in her language, the tag filled with an unrecognisable mess of circles, curves, dots and ellipses.

When asked she transmits to the group, (I am J'Renn, and I represent the united Garendii star cluster.  I am here simply to obsere, though I am well equipped to defend myself should the need arise).  She adds, (If there is any supplies or equipment you require I will be willing to provide from my vessel.  I of course cannot give any of you heavy weapons as it is against our laws.)

Cham sticks his tongue out at the nametag-spewing lackey, giving him quite the raspberry, "You're just jealous because my nametag is way more shiny than the one you gave me."  As he says that, almost as if it hears a cue, the name tag gives a dramatic 'sheen'.

Chammy gingerly lifts his paws out of his ears when he notices that the gate hasn't started spewing rules, giving it a careful eye and not moving from his spot or his pouting position. Still, his ears perk as he catches the tail end of Mittens' speech.

Even Cham doesn't fully understand what she's talking about, but his nametag can't help but start to float up above his head as she finishes.

"... I'm representing the nation of Light too... sort of." Paula looks down at her feet as she says that when others look to her to learn more about her, only offering to explain if any push her for more.

In her own mind, she's not quite sure how to explain herself in the first place. She's really not representing anybody but herself. Even her Master wasn't an important enough furson to garner much attention if she were to openly explain that she's a pupil of his.

At all of the talk of fighting, Paula's face begins to fall and she finally does speak up, "Wait! We're not really planning on fighting others, are we? Is there really going to be combat? I thought the area itself was just supposed to be dangerous..."

As the people look around when Mittens asks that last question about who has been to the core, nobody answers. So Raichel says, "Seems I am." What makes her a goddess? Not the immortality or the powers, but the fact she exists for plot and is a plot hook, etc. XD OK, maybe the powers help, but still.

Upon hearing Paula's panic, Raichel looks over at her and says, "There are others who have gone ahead of us and others who will come after us. We will likely face competition. But most of the danger is the place itself. I don't see why someone throwing a punch at you or shooting at you scares you more than, say, an avolanche full of acidic flaming boulders of oil, but I guess people fear intent more than nature most times."

Raichel does not take Darkthorne's comment as a slight or insult. She isn't the kind of goddess who demands worship. Rather, she demands the same that she would in her mortal life: For good to prosper and pound evil into dust. That is to say, she is no more demanding than the next asserive personality. She does, however, address Darkthorne, "No offense taken. But if you and Mittens' claims are any indication, it isn't the ability to blow someone up that makes a god or you and your people would all be gods. That said, maybe I will count as a goddess in your book once you get to know me. Or, maybe I never will and your definition of god is a jerkface with great power as opposed to a halfway decent person with great power."

An interesting concept she proposes there: Kasketon is a god, the race just doesn't want to admit it. Likewise, Bastok, San'doria, Windurst and Jeuno are all gods. In the same way Prism is a person composed of a collective, so then are armies that can defeat gods just as easily able to be called gods composed of a collective.

Raichel finally turns to look at Mittens again. "The core does what the core will. I made it there myself, so I got addressed by myself. If we're lucky, it will answer a question per person. Be warned, if you intimidate someone into asking a question for you in order to get more than your share of questions, the core will not take kindly to this. And it will know. How else do you think it can answer any question?" she looks at those present. "If you are granted a question, be sure it is YOUR question and yours alone. Nevertheless... I did say IF. The gateway is likely to know the rules concerning that."

Alexis says, "For other people's benefit, J'renn..." she shines J'renn's name written in common onto the name tag, below the symbols. The name burns into the nametag and Alexis stops shining it. "Right. I think we've gotten aquainted just fine. Can we get this thing started?"

----

The guy who gave Darkthorne his nametag replies in honest confusion, "Then why is your reflex to crumple an explosive in your hand? Wouldn't that set it off? Does your kind get a high off exploding your hands and growing them back?" he maturely sticks his tongue out at Cham and says, "I'm the rubber, you're the glue, bounce off me, stick to you!"

Shelly huhs at what Mittens and Prism say. "Well Frank seems experienced. I pick my dad because he has some good experience behind him too. But seriously, I agree with Alexis. Can't this wait till after we visit the core?"

Frank just folds his arms, confident like Vegeta or something.

The cherubs bow lightly to Mittens in response to her thanks. "You're welcome." Gabe answers. Sparky eyes the arguing between name-tag man, Darkthorne and Cham. He looks over at Carla (since Gabriel is distracted with Mittens). Carla shakes her head at Sparky. Sparky looks forward again, as if that was all he needed to see to keep him from doing whatever he was thinking of doing. Sparky says, "I'm with the others who just said we should get this show on the road. Shall we?"

Murla, Queen of Darkness, says, "I'm ready."

The King of Thunder says, "As am I." he seemed lightly nervous at what Raichel said about influenced questions, but otherwise calms himself.

The Gateway speaks audibly but not telepathically, "The path to the core heals itself. Feel free to destroy as much as you wish. However, there are places marked as off limits. They are marked such for your benefit. You may enter them if you wish, but you will die by no fault or desire of the core. Some of those places, for instance, are composed of the essence of non-existance. Any attempts to destroy such places are fruitless as there is nothing to destroy." its "eyes" shift from one person to another as it speaks. "There are currently 3 competitors inside who have been traveling the path for 5 days now. The 20 others who entered with them are now dead. The core has marked the corpses with runes for your convenience, so that you know they are not playing possum. The core will not lie to you, but the path there will have deceptions. Only one question will be granted to an independant group, be it one person on their own or a group of people working together. This is done to keep armies from attacking and reaching the core. However, sometimes, the core will answer more than one question, but will only answer one question per individual per trip. Questions leading up to your one question will be directed to the Wizard of the Core. This is done so questions like "really? Only one question?" will not consume the alotted question you worked so hard for."

The gate looks at Miranda, Murla and the Thunder King. "Raichel speaks true. Influenced questions are not answered. The question must be from your own heart and desire. However, if you are asking a question out of kindness to someone or a need to know regardless of how little you desire the answer, it will be answered."

The gate shifts its eyes to Raichel and Mittens. "People who have the power to resurrect after dying may not enter the gate ever again if they die while on the path to the core. This is to be fair to those who died or risked their only life coming to the core. However, if you die outside of the path to the core, that does not count and you may enter."

The gate shifts its eyes to Cham. "Those who can not die will simply not be answered by the core if they would have died had they been mortal. Therefor, avoiding every lethal danger is in your best interest. Also, ignorance of the rules will not be a usable excuse for breaking them and the consequences will be administered, regardless."

The gate then shifts its eyes to J'renn and the cherubs. "If you are here to observe, then observe and you will be protected by the path itself. However, if you are here to aid the group, you are considered not here to simply observe and will follow all the rules as though trying to earn a question, regardless of whether you ask it or not."

The gate then looks at Darkthorne. "Artificial beings, biological, mechanical or otherwise, have the same rules as those who can resurrect. Once your heart stops beating for longer than a minute, you are considered dead and will be removed." yes, Darkthorne, it called you artificial. Because you having a mind and will of your own does not register.

The gate then says, "Lastly, since a group is seen as a whole, if any member of the group dies, you will no longer be qualified to have your question answered. However, those who survived may return to try the path again a week's time after the death." it eyes Prism as if suggesting "this means you"

(OOC: Originally had it so the core would answer each individual, but then realized that would give Prism several million questions. So I'm forced to go with one question period and maybe the core will answer other questions if it feels nice in order to excuse Prism getting one question. Also, skipping Timothius and Miranda.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:14, Mon 05 July 2010.

Darkthorne's definition of deity doesn't dawn on... wait.  This isn't Nono.  Mittens seems pleased by Darkthorne and gives a smile and nod to him.  She's amused by J'Renn's cooperating in a manner that's not helpful to anyone present and Alexis' solution.  Cham as always, makes her giggle.  That sheen was perfect!  And while the nametag's new position may be abundantly more hilarious to the player, Mits can still appreciate it as being more familiar to her.

"Your offer to aid is most appreciated, J'Renn," Mittens says, fully expecting her to understand like she did at the arena the other day, "Thank you."

She's a little surprised that she catches on to Paula's intentions quicker than a goddess, but then she's assuming she's caught on.

"I'm sure..." she looks at the name tag, "Paula isn't referring to relative danger of violence against people as much as a moral objection to such.  Am I right?"

She shrugs off any thoughts in her head regarding the core's pickiness about persons who chose to ask questions on behalf of tyrants willingly vs. less than willingly.  To each their own.

She's very amused at the childish antics of her minion with the name tags but gives no comment.  She turns her attention to Frank and Shelly.

"Sounds like we're still forming up," she says, "We've got new things to consider like who's on who's team and for what question and who's just observing.  So as much as I'm all for rushing in head first, I don't expect that's going to happen.  May as well enjoy the duel between Water King and Frank while such things are decided.  Thank you for accepting the challenge, by the way."

She looks over to King Urser, Frank, then presents them to each other like she expects them to just start fighting right then.

She looks over to Queen Murla and Thunder King.  "So... Safe to assume you each are going solo?  You'll be aiding only yourself and asking your own individual questions?"

She then addresses the gate: "OK so... What happens if someone helps another team?  Do they get defaulted to that team's rule of 'everyone on that team must live or you don't get to ask a question?'  So if Murla were to help me, and I get killed, she'd lose her chance at a question?  Even though she's not officially on my team?  And what qualifies as help?  Advice?  Band-aids for a scratch?  Does coincidentally shooting the same target count as aiding a rival?  Can I help someone then suicide to disqualify them?  Not that I'd ruin my own chances to spoil someone else's...  How many rules are there to be ignorant of?  Is there a rule book?  What about observing?  Are observers immune to the dangers of the core?  Wait..."

She looks over to Darkthorne.

"You're an artificial person?  Like... animated armor or something?"

She takes note of Timothius' silence and wonders what's on his mind.  Regardless, she looks back to Alexis.

"Whether you want to team up or go separately, I'll be using my question for you if you don't get a chance to ask it yourself.  No offense, but you haven't exactly intimidated me into asking, so I think it'll count.  I'm having a hard time figuring out what I'd ask for myself if we both manage to earn a question each.  'What must I do to get Timothius to have the hots for me?' comes to mind, but seems kinda self-centered for all that effort."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:05, Thu 08 July 2010.

There's times when Prism isn't conflicted at all about something.  This is one of those times.

"We will observe if it's not dangerous to do so," they say, "If it is, we'll wait here."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:57, Thu 08 July 2010.

  The Kasketon species is not the shattered remains of an existence rending cosmic horror created in the aftermath of devouring an incarnation of Yahweh when their throwing together Heaven and Earth disturbed what was already there.

  That would be crazy.

  "Nor particularly enjoyable, no.  However I have found it to bypass denials quite a bit faster in the past if the trap is set off prematurely.  They tend to blame me if I hand it back to them right before it explodes for some reason." Crazy logic or logic from crazy life?

  Looking back over to Raichel they say "There are good gods, though I won't elaborate on the point.  Halfway decent people with great power are much more common however."

  Darkthorne considers Mitten's array of sensible questions, and answers the one directed at himself.  "No, I'm alive as much as you are. Kasketons just give reputedly omniscient beings problems. I'll possibly count as my own team, though I would also be disinclined to just watching most of you die. I'm ready to get going whenever. Not particularly interested in having a question answered, beyond a possible harmless indulgence."

  The Plan:
  1) Ask Heart what number Darkthorne is thinking of.
  2) Sarcastically tell the rest to enjoy their infallible answers once the Heart can't provide the goods.
  2.b) 'That would be crazy' variety results in response to the Heart being able to make the guess.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:11, Sun 11 July 2010.

She smiles at Alexis as makes the translation on her nametag, (Ahh, thank you for the interpretation.)

J'Renn looks up towards the gate, unsure if it can recieve her telepathy, as she's been lisening through the assembled crowd.  (I will be content to be part of the observers, as my main question concerns the journey itself I will find out simply by observing.  I will also take requests for aid equipment before the group heads out.  How long does this journey normally take?)  She transmits to the group while concentrationg on getting through to the gate.  How long this will take will be important as she needs to know how much to take for her picnic pack.

At the 'Nametagger's jibe at him, Cham dramatically pulls an eyelid down and returns with another raspberry, "I know you are, but what am I? Well, aside from glue. I guess we already figured that out, huh? Ah, piffle! I'm still way more bouncy than you, anyway!"

As he's preparing to swipe and bounce a nametag off of his body and onto the Nametagger, he feels the gateway start to speak. His ears twitch and he quickly folds his arms and sticks up his nose as the rules are laid out for them. As he's clearly addressed, he makes no sign of listening aside from a flick of his ears. Otherwise, he looks like he's bopping his head to an imaginary song.

As folks start to seemingly split up into teams, he quickly whips out a headband from hammerspace and ties it on his head dramatically. There's a smiley face inscribed on the front of it. Quickly, he stands up, "Yeah! Team Cham's goin' all the way to the core! And we're gonna... what are we doing there again?"

Paula looks down at Raichel's response to her concerns, holding her hands together in front of her. When Mittens speaks up about it, though, she looks at the Queen of Fire and smiles, "That's right... yes... It's one thing to survive. It's another entirely to have to hurt others to do so... Maybe even kill them."

When Mittens starts talking about teaming up and the various rules that the gate's just laid out, Paula shifts her feet a bit. Her eyes wander the room to see what the others intend to do, but she clearly settles her eyes on Miranda at the end. She patiently waits for her to respond before making her own.

Raichel considers asking the core what does it take to be a dooood (inside joke, guys. Don't take it too seriously. Besides, it's narrative). Raichel answers Darkthorne, "Considering that people are more common than gods, I should hope decent people are more common than decent gods. But yeah. You'll have to elaborate what makes a god. At least in your mind."

Poor Darkthorne. His plans of being a decent guy and helping people will be his undoing. Well OK, so that's a bit dramatic. It will be why he has friends. There. That's more accurate. It will also be why he will never know if the Heart could answer him or not.

Raichel looks at Prism. "Observation is not dangerous. The path just said it would protect you. Just make sure observe is the only thing you do. The moment you aid someone, you are considered no longer an observer."

She then looks at J'Renn. "The journey normally takes about a day. A well-prepared team who know what they are doing can manage in half a day."

Raichel then looks at Paula, "When fighting the people who work for the path, do not fear. They are soulless projections, not real people. However, there will be others trying to get to the core. Those are real people. But it's not likely you will need to kill them. Most who travel to the core understand it's a bad idea to stand in the way of another trying to get there. Why face more obstacles than you already face? Still, there's always that chance."

She turns to watch Frank and Maximus fight. She totally expects King Urser to embarrass Frank, but doesn't say a thing.

(OOC: RL? Someone comes along, so much as CLAIMS divinity and rules a kingdom? He's obviously a god. Just look at ancient Egyptian Pharaohs. And yes. That would be crazy if the Kasketon race was what was left of an incarnation of Yahweh. Since that wouldn't be allowed in this game. Random made up gods are another story entirely.)

Alexis says, "Usually, the comment "no offense" is followed by something offensive. Still, I am not offended as I never intended to intimidate you with my tears or pleading." she gives a "duh" look. If she wanted to be intimidating, well... she's not as good at it as a normal monarch should be. Despite her fiery personality and immense courage.

----

Nametag guy says to Cham, "....You got me there. You are bouncier." because he decides this is not a conversation worth resorting to "yo momma" over. What? We already mentioned this guy is mature. :p He then looks at Darkthorne. "....You win the "My life has sucked more than yours" game this round. Congratulations." after all, Nametage guy has never had things blow up in his hand, nor has he been blamed for handing an explosive back to someone, nor has he had a NAMETAG turned into a bomb. Clearly, Darkthorne has either met Surprise Smurf, or an incarnation of the guy.

Timothius glances at the crazy girl who just up and said out loud that she wants Timothius to have the hots for her. Does she want that because she has a crush on him? Or because she wants to toy with him? After all, the prior ruler of fire would want Alexis to crush on him for that reason.

Timothius answers Mittens, "You're already doing what it takes, Mittens, by aiming for peace without hurting people."

Miranda listens to Paula and then Raichel. She nods and says, "Nobody ever has to kill. There is always a choice." she goes to put an arm around Paula. "Don't you worry. I have equipment at my disposal that allows for me to stop people without even hurting them." She is referring to her stasis weapon, but doesn't mention such.

Shelly is annoyed enough by Frank that she wants to see daddy spank him. But she's also worried for her dad, having never really seen him in a real fight. Spar? Sure. With people who serve him. But against some fire nation guy out to prove something? Different story.

Frank faces Maximus. "The gate said whenever we're ready. So yes. You and I have time for a spar, your ex-majesty."

The cherubs all sit down with intent to watch the fight between Frank and Maximus. Having not been addressed this round, they have nobody to answer. Nor an interest in forcing their way into any conversations at the moment.

Murla, Queen of Darkness, says, "The thunder king and I agreed on a question of mutual benefit. He and I will be going together."

The King of Thunder says, "However, we will be considered separate from the rest of you."

The Gateway answers Mittens. "You are asking for the line. The letter of the law. The spirit of the law is there. You are smart enough to understand. The Heart will know intentions. If you help someone who didn't want your help, you will not be counted as part of their team. But even Murla, no matter how much she may insist she didn't want someone's help, will have wanted the help. If Murla helped you, she would officially become part of your team, so to ask if she would lose her question even though she isn't officially part of your team is a question with an assumption. A false assumption. The spirit of the law is simple to grasp. Do not test the line or you will find you crossed it long ago."

Maximus has been putting a great deal of effort into keeping his cool, and he's been succeeding.  He hands Shelly a video camera, asking her to record the duel, then turns to face Frank with a blank expression, not allowing him the pleasure of knowing his words did in fact annoy and offend.

"It's on then," he says calmly.

He then begins to casually stroll toward Frank who's a little taken aback.  What's with the casual posture!?  The king doesn't seem to be taking the match seriously!

"What?  You think this is some kind of game?  Well you're sorely mistaken!"

He performs a swift firebending kata ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8C0RvNVfT1Y ) that sends a rather large burning sphere hurling toward Maximus.  The king was expecting such an attack, but is still forced to jump aside to avoid being consumed by the flames.  As he dodges, he takes hold of the trident strapped to his back and in one swift motion he unsheathes and throws it right toward Frank's center of gravity.

Frank gets a wicked grin, glad that he's forced the King of he Water Nation to treat this like a real fight.  He dives to the side to avoid the trident while shooting a swift bolt of flames at the royal seabear.

Maximus decides that Frank's attack is probably weak enough to risk charging right toward his attacker.  He ducks down some, shielding his face with his left arm while unsheathing his sword with his right.  The bolt scores a glancing blow on the King, but Maximus has closed the distance and holds the sword to Frank's throat.

Frank pauses for a moment and considers his still calm looking opponent.

"You're bluffing!" he surmises, forming a blazing sword of his own hidden behind his back, "You don't have the stomach for a death match!"

"Don't bet your life on it," Maximus warns.

Frank's body language feigns surrender.  Then suddenly he moves to swing his burning sword at King Max!

Max wasn't bluffing.  With just a slight twitch, the tip of his blade cuts through Frank's throat.  Max follows up by slicing off the hand that was holding the burning sword.

Frank staggers back, coughing and grasping at his throat with the one hand he has left, his life ebbing fast.

Max calmly stoops down to pick up his opponent's hand off the ground.

"Frank may not want to be healed, King Timothius," Maximus points out, "He may rather die than live with the fact that he was humiliated by someone half his size.  And who didn't bother using any fancy powers to defeat him."

He faces Frank.

"Do you want to live?"
This message was last edited by the player at 07:24, Thu 05 Aug 2010.

Mittens giggles at Cham's cute antics, very happy he came along.  She ahs at Darkthorne's answer and gives him a thumbs-up.

"Well you sure picked the right tactic!" she answers Alexis with a grin, reaching to side-hug and fist-grind the Nature Queen's shoulder, "I have no defense against genuine tears and pleading.  You totally wrapped me around your finger!"

To Timothius she goes for another side hug.

"Glad to hear it!" Mittens chimes cheerfully, "Interestingly the same reason I find you attractive, hot stuff!"

She leans over to whisper in his ear.

"So... be my secret boyfriend for the time being, then.  Out here we're not under a microscope, so no need for stupid politics to get in the way of two people liking each other, right?"

"I can go with spirit law," she answers the gateway, "Just used to hair-splitting nit-pickers spoiling my fun."

Speaking of fun... Mittens enjoys the fight between King Max and Frank immensely, instinctively copying their moves as she watches.  When Frank gets stabbed and disarmed, she winces and ouches in sympathy.  She doesn't wait for Frank to nod or headshake and casts a high level magical cure on him to save the guy's life.  Frank sputters and gasps now that the bleeding has stopped.  He's far from being back to full health, but at least he's not dying.

"How very generous of his highness to offer Frank the choice," Mittens surmises, "But dead men give no apologies, and I'd say Frank owes the Water Kingdom and their royals at least that much.  Prism was right about speaking the language of fire.  I have a great deal more respect for the Water Kingdom now than I did a moment ago, and would like to show my respect in their language.  Still... have yet to hear from them about how they feel about being used as a threat against my people.

"But back to the matter at hand.  Team building.  We have ourselves Team ThunderDark consisting of Murla and Thunder King who presumably prefer no assistance.  Team Peanut Gallery consisting of Prism and J'Renn who presumably will only indirectly aid with supplying equipment and advice.  Team Helpful consisting of the cherubs and Darkthorne who presumably will directly assist those who ask for it.  Team Cham, the only one among us with an actual team logo, consisting of Cham, Cham, and all the other Chams.  And lastly team...FireNatureLifeZap...  We need a better name.  Consisting of myself, Queen Alexis, King Timothius, and Raichel.  Who have but one question between them: to find the truth behind the Nature Kingdom's woes.

"Which leaves the unpicked members Queen Shelly, Maximus, Miranda, and Paula.  I've no objection to anyone joining me and Alexis' team if the others don't object.  Also, team leadership should probably be decided upon within your teams.  I vote Alexis for my team for obvious reasons."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:54, Thu 05 Aug 2010.

Prism is relieved that Frank didn't die.  They expect that in spite of Mittens apparent lack of concern for the political ramifications of her top adviser being killed in a death match with the former king of the Water Kingdom, the news of the event wouldn't make anyone more inclined toward peace.  They're also relieved that being an observer will not be dangerous according to the one who's done this before and hope that being on J'Renn's team won't be hindered by the fact that they can't directly communicate with each other.  They're also happy that the journey will only be a day.

  Darkthorne considers Raichel's question, "Entities capable of creating, altering, or destroying all of reality within a timespan faster than standard biological comprehension.  At times encompassing or being a reality unto themselves.  They can be difficult to stop, but our continued existence tends to be worth a little more effort than usual keeping it that way when they deem us not worthy of existing.  I'd admittedly prefer if Miranda and Paula's outlook applied."

  Darkthorne is somewhat surprised the expected timeframe is a day, but considers that the end result is a question given an attempted answer and not direct results to be a factor.  As the fight between Frank and Maximus takes place, he wonders if there is a trend of leadership around here backing up their magical ability with actual freakin skill for all of the local leader positions.  "Well, for the moment at least it seems I do not win the worst life game.  Why do people play that game by the way?"  Yes, Darkthorne is taking Mr. Nametags comment literally.

  Team Helpful. It remains to be seen if Darkthorne will actually live up to that name.

OOC Style: Well, how fortunate then that the mentioned remains of a random cosmic horror that ate a Yahweh stand-in is doable then >:D
  Though the Orz are still my favorite cosmic horror aspects.

J'Renn watches the combat curiously, looking mildly disturbed as Frank is brought so close to death, as well as is maimed.  She realises that challenges here are taken quite seriously.  Better to just dispatch an offending person immediately, rather than issuing a forward challenge.

She requests provisions, and supplies for 3 days just in case she ends up needing to share.  Along with the provisions she requests a portable trauma kit.  She dosen't plan on interfering, but better prepared than not.  Juust in case the gate isn't telling the whole truth, she has a hard time believing an entity she can't read directly.

When the fighter between King Urser and Frank starts up, Cham immediately becomes interested. He zaps himself behind King Urser's 'corner', losing his headband get up and donning a gray sweatsuit and a knit cap.

"C'mon there, Maxy! You gotta pulverize this guy! Give 'im a left and then a right and then another left!" The little blue raccoon punches the air in front of him to illustrate his tactics.

As that goes on, Cham also appears behind Frank's 'corner', in the same get-up.

"This guy's a killer, Franky-boy! Whatever ya do, don't let 'im hug ya! There ain't nothin' more devestatin' than a SeaBear Hug, though I hear that SeaBear claws taste pretty good... But DON'T you eat 'em! You gotta eat water and clap... uh... fire!"

When things go ultimately south for Frank, both Chams cover their eyes and give an "Ouch... that's gotta hurt!"

The two Chams circle around and run headlong into each other, forming a single Cham again as he sees Mittens helping Frank out. He floats himself near to Timothius as she does that, balancing himself on his tail, "Oooh, if she keeps that up, she might put you out of a job..."

He brightens up again as Mittens starts breaking down the teams, puffing out his chest proudly, "Yep! We got a team logo and we've even got a plan! We're totally gonna reach the core before you guys. In fact, I know shortcut!" He gives the others a quick raspberry as he reaches into his non-existent pockets and thwips out a large black circle.

"Now... this'll either take me to the Starway Interstate, Wonderland, or the Heart of the Universe. Only one way to find out... Cannonball!"

Without waiting for anything else, the little blue raccoon plugs his nose and bounces into the blackhole, zipping it up behind him and disappearing.

At the violent combat between King Urser and Frank, particularly when Frank has his throat sliced, Paula screams and huddles against Miranda, hiding her face from the bloodshed.  Even when Mittens heals him up, the skunk seems shaken at the seemingly random slaying that had taken place.

At the question of which team to join, Paula quickly shakes her head, "No... No thank you... I... I can't do this. I'm not the right furson for this kind of journey... And I don't have any kind of abilities that would be helpful for this. Nothing that the king of Life wouldn't already be able to do tenfold." She lets herself smile lightly at Timothius as she says that.

"I think I'll stay here and wait... I just don't think I can make the same kind of journey as you all."

Before the Frank/Max fight, Timothius is hugged by Mittens, who just hugged Alexis. Timothius blushes. Hugging Alexis was SO the right thing for Mittens to do and Timothius nods in response to her whisper, his posture almost identical to Alexis (See Alexis' post). However, the fight begins and Timothius' expression loses most of its enthusiasm. By the end of the fight, the expression is annoyed with a hint of sad.

Timothius is divided in so many ways over Mittens healing Frank. He should be relieved that Mittens saved Frank's life. He is, but he's also upset Max nearly killed the guy. Maybe because Max knew Timothius was nearby. He wouldn't have waited to heal Frank either, but Max distracted him with the speech about Frank possibly not wanting to be healed. Mittens was so quick to heal Frank that the second's hesitation was all she needed to beat Timothius to the punch.

".........................."

He's also thinking about how now Mittens is going to be rumored as better at healing than the King of Life and that maybe the girl is, in fact, more powerful with water than the Water royalty. All because she healed this rather annoying individual. But seeing Frank is still quite far from being at full health, Timothius seizes the opportunity to stop such rumors from ever happening. He picks up Frank's hand from the ground and attaches it to the wrist it was severed from while he puts his left hand on Frank's throat, almost in a strangle-hold. Even as he's holding Frank's throat, Timothius suggests a name for the team he and Mittens are on. "Team Mourning." he says with a deathly serious expression, pulling away as Frank is seemingly back to perfect health. "We are on a mission to learn about why such sorrow befell the Nature people, so we mourn the losses and in our mourning, put ourselves to use in service to those who still yet live."

Timothius makes a mental note Mittens can heal from a distance too, while he can not. This will be very handy on the way to the heart.

He looks at Paula and nods. "Take care of yourself." he says to the sweet skunkette.

Nametag guy answers Darkthorne, "It's just another form of pissing contest. People play that game to try out-doing each other at something. It also doubles as a means of saying "Well I'm more bad-ass than you" just like showing off scars on your body. Or "I have more of a right to complain, so shut up and stop wining while I wine." is another reason people play that."

Frank is rather annoyed with himself. He was so sure the Seabears were wimps... but King Max just embarrassed him in front of everyone. He stands up straight and proud anyway. "My queen apologized to the Nature Kingdom for things she had nothing to do with before her crowning. I, therefor, am far from worthy to refuse apologizing to someone when I was downright wrong about them and thus, proven a liar. King Urser, you and your family have my apologies. Not only for underestimating you. Not only for marring your name on television. But also for putting you in this position where you were forced to nearly kill me right in front of your little girl just to make a point."

Shelly cringed, covered her mouth and widened her eyes when she saw Frank's throat slit. She looked away, teary-eyed. Timothius is nearby, yes. He can bring people back to life, yes. But Shelly's still just a girl. A teenage girl at that. She is too distracted by this to notice Mittens pointing out about the fact Shelly hasn't given an opinion on being used as a threat against Mittens. Looks like Max will have to answer Mittens. Either that, or draw Shelly's attention to it.

When Timothius mentions mourning the people of Nature, Shelly loses it and just cries into her hands, glowing a bit. The battle between Frank and Max just made the entire Fire/Nature war take a front seat in Shelly's mind.

When hugged by Mittens, Alexis blushes like Timothius did and her shoulders shrug as she looks over at the kitty. She watches as Mittens hugs Timothius also and their image is taken by a reporter who has been recording this event. Alexis smiles hopefully at Mittens all cute-like.

During the fight, Alexis stays next to Mittens and watches with interest. At first, she is worried for Max. She suppresses a smile when Frank gets his throat cut. The guy deserved it and Alexis knows Timothius won't let that last.... orrrr Mittens won't. Mittens has earned another brownie point this post.

Upon seeing Frank apologize and in such a... genuine manner... Alexis suddenly finds herself amazed at the level of respect Frank just yanked from her.

When Mittens puts Alexis in charge, she earns yet ANOTHER brownie point from the elf. That's 3 brownie points in one post (4 if you count that Mittens suggested Frank apologize in the first place).

Seeing Shelly cry takes Alexis right back to the war, but she just assumes Shelly is crying for Frank.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Sat 28 Aug 2010.

Seeing Mittens hug Alexis and Timothius made Raichel smile. It was a cute sight and more importantly, a sign of hope. And Darkthorne's definition of a god, while certainly impressive and satisfactory to Raichel, makes her wonder if Darkthorne is from a whole race of beings that are easily as powerful as or more powerful than herself. She also decides not to think overly much on the topic.

Raichel manages to keep a neutral expression throughout the entire fight between Frank and Max.

Raichel has no healing powers. Shocker of shockers (pardon the punn). So she does not heal Frank.

Raichel is a bit more insightful than Alexis. Seeing Shelly cry touches Raichel's heart as the seabear shows deep, passionate concern for the people of Nature. Raichel hurries over to the girl to hold her, kneeling down on the ground to be closer to Shelly's height.

During the fight, the cherubs have varying reactions. Gabriel has a serious expression and watches the whole thing, only lightly wincing at the sight of Frank's throat being slit. Stephen watches calmly and pulls a calculator from subspace. Well it LOOKS like a calculator anyway. Carla headshakes with a worried look and her hands to her mouth. Sparky gets that cocky smile a guy who enjoys a battle tends to get. Rainbow also winces, though she grabs Daniel protectively, hiding his face in her chest. Daniel's face was hidden in time for him to not see the throat slitting, so when he looks again, all he sees is Timothius healing Frank the rest of the way.

The cherubs do not comment on the fact they have been defaulted to Darkthorne's team. Nor do they comment on Darkthorne more or less claiming his race can potentially take on their god. None of them are convinced, of course, but without them commenting, nobody is any wiser to this.

Miranda hugs Paula and says, "I hope to see you again some time. But I need to go. My friend really wants me to observe..."

"I accept on my own behalf," Maximus answers with a slight nod to Frank, still somewhat suspecting treachery, but trying hard to not let it show he has his guard up.  It's also taking a good deal of effort to refrain from his old habits of speaking on behalf of others.  He turns to face his daughter and gives her a bow.

"It would be my Queen's choice to speak for herself and our people," he continues, "Or to remain silent.  And it shall be her choice whether we join a team or not."

That's his gentle way of telling her that it's time for her to start acting like a queen and be more decisive.  There's a lot of other stuff on his mind, like how very two-faced he considers the fire kingdom and her leadership.  Advice and warnings he wants to give his daughter, but he figures it more important for her to learn first hand in this case.  He doesn't expect her to do or say anything that will spark off a war or even threaten to, so he figures it totally worth it to keep his thoughts to himself for the time being.

And then Shelly starts crying.  His train of thought derails and crashes into a canyon!  He rushes over to her to hug and comfort her and himself winds up shedding a few tears.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:46, Tue 31 Aug 2010.

Mittens has more than two faces.  She has a happy face for when she's happy.  :)  A sad face for when she's sad.  :(  An angry face for when she's angry.  >:(  And so on.  Remember that Mittens enjoyed the fight?  Well she enjoyed it a bazillion times more than the player thought, thanks to Cham's hilarious coaching!  ROFL face!  XD  If she were better versed in OOC chat, she'd know she'd probably not be seeing Cham again and might have to wear a sad face.  :(

Paula, Mittens isn't quite that attached to, though she finds the gentle girl to be sweet.  She gives a nod and a thumbs-up to indicate her approval of the girl's decision to stay.  She puts on a big grin when Darkthorne and Name Tag Guy have their serious discussion about the "My life sucks more" game and when Timothius nodded to her suggestion, but decided now was not the time for more flirts given his super-serious face when giving the new name for the team.  :|  (( http://www.seriouscat.com/ ))

"Awesome!" Mittens approves, "I approve of the team title, and of Frank's living up to his end of the challenge!"

Frank bows, slightly offended that she implied there was any doubt he would...  Still...  "Thank you for restoring the use of my hand," he says to Timothius, "And for healing me, both of you."

He feels guilty when Shelly cries, thinking he was at fault.  Mittens awws for the poor crying Seabear.  Not only that, but being locked in one of those deadly Seabear hugs!  Kidding.  She figures it was Timothius' speech that made the tender girl cry...

"I'd offer a hug but..." Mittens says, wondering if she'll get a dirty look from Shelly's daddy, "Aw heck with it."

She too walks over to Shelly and will give a Barney style hug unless prevented.  What?!  It's about the only kind you can offer someone half your height!  Unless you're like Raichel and kneel down first.  Duh.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:24, Tue 31 Aug 2010.

Prism is conflicted.  On the one hand, they were promised safety from the hazards of the Heart if they went on the journey to observe.  On the other, things have already gotten violent between people without the journey even starting.  They don't much trust the fire kingdom or her leadership either, but... hugs!  And apologies!  Staying behind is more viable now that Paula has elected to do so, but then they'll miss out on what they could have learned from this rare opportunity.  And what's at stake is very worth it.  Prism decides by a narrow majority to stand by their earlier decision to go with J'Renn as an observer.

  Darkthorne's back and forth swing through Sarcasm qualifications and figure of speech ignorance is on the backswing so they get the intended meaning with Nametag Guy's 'pissing contest' comment...  Which reminds Darkthorne that among the details such as no lighting, and no prepared food, there are no toilets on Kasketon.

  Even if the place was perfectly safe, Kasketon is a lousy tourist spot.

  "Schadenfreude is an unexpected element of our travels." As well as one of the few job benefits back home besides the whole survival thing.  "Although not so much in this case, even if seeing ones not yet hardened to life out of necessity brings a certain optimism for existence at large."  Little girls crying is sad.  The fact a little girl has enough innocence left in them TO cry over the situation is less so.

OOC Style: If Paula is still around OOCly, I can dust off Blake later to give her someone to talk to ICly later...  Okay so maybe that's not the best plan but hey, it's A plan?

Seems somewhat relieved that at least a few people are upset that they've seen the egregeous injuries Frank had endured.  She's been in war before and she's still not completely unaffected by the death of another.  For one to be so jaded that watching a person die before thier eyes is simply passe would be rather frightning to be around.  She double checks her supplies, and walks over with the group who is observing.  (I will have my vessel keep a lock on all of us in case we need an emergency evacuation.  I can also control my ship from afar if needed.  I feel it's reasonably safe to observe.) she reassures the group.

Shelly is simultaneously hugged by her dad, Raichel and Mittens. She remains glowing, clinging to her dad for a few seconds that seem like minutes. Shelly wipes her tears away and takes a deep breath before slowly dimming back to normal. "Apology accepted on behalf of the Water Kingdom." she says firmly as her expression seems serious.

"How do I feel about being used as a threat against the fire nation?" Shelly looks at Mittens. "Right now? Awkward. Since you are not the previous ruler of fire and you are being kind, the Water Kingdom's stance with you is currently on hold. But you must understand the sheer devastation caused to the people of Nature. You personally have yet to understand the loyalty me and my people have to the people of Nature. If Alexis said jump, I would ask her how high. Not because I am under her command, but because I love her and her people. But to be clear... I don't believe anyone used anyone as a threat. Perhaps we can clarify this some more when you return from your trip to the center. I and my father will not be going with you to the center. We came to meet you all because we were dared to and would look like cowards if we didn't show up thanks to Frank's challenge. I am personally here to wish you all well, and especially to give you my sincerest hope that you will turn out to be a hero. The Water Kingdom is going to watch with much interest, but we are not taking action to the heart this day. That will be another time. This is mostly for you and Alexis anyhow..." she sighs, slowly getting that smile of hers back. "Good luck..."

Raichel stands slowly and turns to Darkthorne. "Don't let your heart be hardened. For whatever evil befell you or your people, if you harden your hearts, that very evil has killed you and thus, wins. Kindness, love, empathy... these virtues remind you that you live." She doubts she is telling Darkthorne anything new. But reminders are always a good thing.

Raichel then looks at Shelly. "The Fire Queen may be a stranger, but she is a quick study. I think after the trip to the heart, we will know what the Fire Queen is made of."

Alexis is unsure what to say or how to feel. She is, of course, very touched at Shelly's statement of loyalty. She even "says" as much by gently putting her hand to her heart. The nature queen doesn't object to Timothius' suggestion for the team name as she finds it fitting.

(Skip my other alts for now)

Mittens face-crunches in confusion at Shelly's response and decides to chew on it some more while she answers the others first.

"Thanks again for offered emergency assistance, J'Renn," Mittens says, rubbing her chin in contemplation, "And yes... the proof will be in the pudding, Raichel.  Thanks for the compliment."

Mittens thinks back to her past, trying to find an analogy to Shelly's response.  She recalls how unpopular the Star Sibyl's "lap dog" guard Semih Lafihna was for her loyalty to the Taru leader.  She takes a deep breath and puckers her lips in an exaggerated frown.

"I get the feeling I'm not interpreting what you said the way you want me to," Mittens surmises in reply to Shelly, trying to be as logical sounding as possible, "Allow me to quote back to you what you said... as filtered through my thought processes.  'I'm lightly embarrassed that you called me out on the Water Kingdom's superweapon because I'm a little uncomfortable with killing the people of someone who hugged me.  So I'm making up my mind to be indifferent if you live or die because for some reason the dead people of the Nature Kingdom matter more than every living person of the Fire Nation combined.

"Alexis...  I worship the ground she walks on, and will murder millions on her whim, but go on a quest to find the truth behind the attacks on her people?!  Forget it!  That sounds dangerous!  Even with the King of Life here... I may chip a nail!  When she's finished putting her neck on the line, we can talk about her supposed threat to your people.  Not like I have any plans of using that weapon on your people while you're distracted or anything.  Noooo.  I was just here to save face.  So long, suckers!"

Mittens takes a breath and continues.

"Maybe not the most tactful way of relaying my hearing of what you said, but I figured it better to be open than to keep that kind of interpretation to myself.  At least I'm convinced that you weren't crying alligator tears for the Nature Kingdom to lure me into dropping my emotional defenses around you if that helps any."

She looks over at Frank.

"Is the Water Language really that far removed from the Fire Language?  Or is my being alien the issue here?"

At least she knows she's insane? Maximus thinks to himself with a disgusted look on his face.  He takes a deep breath to regain his poise and leans over to whisper in his daughter's ear but stops himself.  He realizes it best not to say anything in secret with the fire queen present lest she think she's being plotted against.

"We have a telepath handy," he reminds.

Prism is holding their collective breath, wondering if all the progress made so far was just undone.  They're encouraged by King Urser's calm-ish and sane reaction at least.

  It's not like Frank died back there anyway.  Never mind how acclimatized Darkthorne is to sudden and brutal death around him.  "Our travels are in part to see this.  To remind us these are virtues that exist, not some self delusion born out of desperation." Darkthorne you're missing your black beret and elaborately complex latte order to go with that talk.

  He considers Mittens's elaboration of how she interpreted Shelly's speech.  He doesn't mention his kinds linguistic perks because there is always that pesky difference between 'understanding a language' and 'understanding what they actually meant'.  "Am I correct in understanding that Maximus Urser is suggesting the use of telepathy to glean the truth, on someone with regalia that prevents such mental intrusions of that scale unless they will it so.  Returning us again to 'will have to take her word for it'?"

  Nevermind Kasketons dislike mental futzing even though they themselves are immune to it.  That kind of suggestion despite what are apparently standard issue Crown designs to all Element Here Leaders will likely result in Mitten's going off on a tangent of Maxiumus trying to take advantage of her naivety regarding the Standard Issue Royal Equipment Drops.  Or a trick to get Mittens to remove her crown out of spite and opening herself up to cloaked Protos.

  Or something.  It couldn't possibly be because their player forgot those crowns did that.  That would be crazy.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:17, Mon 20 Sept 2010.

Is basically ready to go, she checks over her gear one more time ensuring there's fresh power cells all 'round, and everything works fine.  While she does her check she senses someone talking about her when they mention 'The telepath'.  She looks up and around focusing on the minds of the people who mentioned her to see if they had any expectations from her.  Her gentle mind probing would only give someone the feeling of being watched if they were sensitive to those things.

Shelly folds her arms giving Mittens a "you're weird" look ( http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hp...02_31532035_84_n.jpg ). She looks at her dad when he mentions the telepath. Shelly then looks at J'Renn. "Are you able to convey absolute intentions and meaning directly from one mind to another?"

Even if J'Renn IS able to, Shelly reminds herself she doesn't want to become dependent on that. She needs to learn to speak for herself in a way even crazy alien cat people who accidentally take over the fire nation can understand.

And yes, J'Renn more or less saw that as well as thoughts of "this girl is WEIRD" in Shelly's surface thoughts.

Shelly would wait for a reply, but regardless of what was said, she would speak up to Mittens and say, "Break a nail? Honestly? You must think the core is some kind of picnic. If I went on this mission, I would die. I would be more hindrance than help. My skill set is more how to rule a kingdom than how to fight monsters. You and Alexis are the opposite. You two are powerful beings familiar more with your powers than how to rule a nation. One-on-one, either one of you could obliterate me with both hands tied behind your back. If I went on the mission, the absolute best we could hope for is my leadership, and in this case, leading a small force in battle is a different skill set than leading a whole nation, its economy, etc. And that's just usefulness. There's such a thing as a 5th wheel. I am not required at ALL. I trust what you two will come out saying the answer was. What would it benefit anyone if I went there? If I died, that would be yet another heartache for Alexis. And I can just about guarantee I would die in there. I don't care how cowardice the truth sounds, but it's the truth."

She takes a small breath. "As for how you interpreted everything else? How about I turn it around on you and say that what you said sounds like the millions of Nature people who died don't matter at all? They matter. Their blood cries for justice. And if I kill innocents, that would only soil their graves. You don't have to worry about me or Alexis ordering for the massacre of innocents. But the guilty? That is another story. Now then... you wanted answers, right? Isn't that what the core is for? Maybe you can ask what the will of fire really was and one of these neutral types can ask if I'm a homicidal hypocritical maniac. Or you could do something unheard of and trust me."

Having experience with such headgear, Raichel answers Darkthorne. "You are not correct in your understanding of the ruler's crown. It prevents mental dominance. But they can allow telepathic conversation all the same as normal conversation. Effectively, it is an anti-deception, anti-domination tool. Though how you even came to assume that much about the crown, I'd like to know. Aren't you new to this area of the universe?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:08, Wed 03 Nov 2010.

Alexis is trying not to be offended, remembering this fire queen has been trying hard to get peace rolling. Despite her constant bragging, power-flaunting and rude commentary. She's also reminding herself Shelly is just being honest about skill sets, not saying that Alexis is a bad ruler.

Timothius turns to Mittens. "I have the power to tell when someone is lying. Unfortunately, you would have to trust me to tell you the truth about the results. So it really does boil down to trust, as Shelly said."

Mittens listens with arms folded, nodding and saying "mm-hmm" like Naruto when he's not really paying attention.  She then goes wide-eyed and gets an oooooh look on her face.

"Silly me for jumping to conclusions," she says, smacking her forehead, "I was so impressed with Maximus' fight, I was getting the impression all you royal seabear types could hold your own.  Now it all makes sense and I look silly.  Thanks for the clarification, apologies for the misunderstanding, and it's good you recognize that it was a specific faction, not the entire Fire Nation, who's in question for unprovoked violence."

She decides against re-iterating that the Fire Nation is awesome and will kick the tail of any attempted invasion because she feels she's made the point well enough.  She turns to Timothius and grins with a thumbs-up.

"That's a handy one," she says, "Lemme know when I'm lying to myself.  It'll be interesting to know if I can trust myself."

  Darkthorne considers Raichel's answer about the Crown, and their player is again reminded of the hassles involved with Darkthorne's capacity to accurately know things like what exactly the Crowns can do suffering through the fact their player isn't an encyclopedia of other players minds.  "Ah, I had assumed it was somehow keeping some of its effects hidden even from me considering how much importance is placed on them.  It seems I was merely overestimating it's usefulness.  Why bother to deceive your rulers when the knowledge of their kingdoms defenses remains unprotected?  As for how I know, realizing such knowledge has become an integral part of our survival.  Would you announce an integral part of your resurrection process to this crowd if they merely asked?"  He is tempted specify Raichel's rod for it's importance to her coming back as knowledgeable and competent as before, but that would be needlessly mean.  Not to mention highlight Darkthorne as a potential threat (well, going 'Haha, I know what your phylactery is' pretty much IS a threat.)

  His response to Mitten's latest commentary is sidelines as he gets a message.  "...I wish you luck in not needing such abilities, but it seems I won't be able to join you after all.  I am needed elsewhere."  He turns to the rest and says "It was good to meet you all, I hope at least most of you survive."  Wow, how touching.  And with that, Darkthorne is gone.

  Darkthorne is significantly less gone in a Dimension Of Shrimp facility.  Hey, direct links back home are just asking for trouble.  "I'm hazy, we've got another exploration agent dealing with what?"  "Something they need more gun for.  You are to deliver this case to the agent at this location, and provide assistance as needed with their current problem before pulling them out to their return facility."  "Don't I get anything?"  "No, unless the agent dies... I will shoot you myself if you speed that along."  "I love you too Mom."  "Good answer, now remember dear Tiamat has five faces so you will have to shoot five times more than usual."

  OOC Style:  You don't have to literally have your Alts make the Tag when you swap them out for eachother, right? No?  Good.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:05, Tue 04 Jan 2011.

  To review those that were present and preparing to travel to the Title Drop.  Royalty, Royalty, Ex-Royalty, Royalty, a pair of named NPC Royalty, unnamed rock person and robed man NPCs (likely royalty), and Two Aliens.  We may have missed someone, but a pattern just might be forming here.  One that shall be followed, depending on how forgiving the definition of Alien is in this case.  A lone robot arrives at gateway... To the gateway, already this post is delving into redundancies, but the scenery started it this time.  Taller than the majority of the crowd but dwarfed in sized by the 20 foot tall rock person everyone seems to have forgotten about, they approach the crowd.

  "I understand the Heart's rules, as given and intended.  I accept the Life King's name for this quest, for it is a reason close to one I share.  Those of you who would discover why those of your clans have suffered in the past at eachothers hands.  Fire and Nature still remain strong as title and empire despite it.  I am Bamzor, Thinking Weapon of the lost clan Ze'Argen.  You that know who but not why, the death of my people is a loss of which even the culprit remains unknown.  I will not compare the value of the total loss of life on one world to the combined lives lost in your wars, the tragedies of out past remains so regardless."  Bamzor stops royal guard approved safe distance from the gathering.

  "I will only say that should it be your desires then revenge is in your grasp without the Heart, as much of a waste it may be.  Those I was built to guard, those that I would avenge the loss of, I know not even what to strike out against after all this time.  My cause likely matters as much to you as yours does to me, little to nothing.  Or if it does matter, not enough to give up your own answer.  My desire for long denied retribution is not so blind that I will mindlessly act against you, or sacrifice you.  Though I would have little regard for the safety of those who would try the same to others.  After all, repeat attempts are not unheard of as Raichel's presence confirms.  This is merely the most opportune time."  For certainly the royalty hates eachother more than they do random strangers... Well, some of them anyways... And others might aim for him first out of spite and hope for an easier less politically wrapped target...  Okay so Bamzor's logic isn't always flawless.

  OOC Style:  Poor J'renn. I make an Altswap and I still can't hold a proper conversation with her character.  Also no mysterious spooky reason he knows the conversations that were going on, this gig's been televised so far after all ;D
This message was last edited by the player at 12:08, Tue 04 Jan 2011.

J'Renn nods to Shelly slowly, responding  (I can tell you exactly what the person is thinking and feeling. With a direct contact I can link two minds together, as a conduit.).

As Mittens makes her comment about letting her know when she's lying to herself J'Renn transmits (I will.  And I should let you know, that the confidence you feel on the surface is not founded by your intellect.  But you seem to be used to making blind leaps.)  she notes with a soft smile.

ooc:Don't worry,  communicating problems just add to the fun.

Timothius nods in response to Mittens' request to let her know when she is lying to herself. He looks up at Bamzor and waves. "You are welcome to come." is all he says. Tim's nervous about the upcoming trek. It isn't an easy one, to put it lightly. But he double checks that everyone is ready. And once he is sure that they are, he goes in.

The Path (Yay namesake):
Once the group enters through the gateway, there is a path of ethereal material. Your basic translucent road with space beneath. There is an archway-shaped ceiling and walls all around. So while there is apparently outer space with stars below.. there is vegetation along the walls and upside-down waterfalls that form lakes on the ceiling. The path continually changes color from one end of the spectrum to the other. The ambient sounds are what you might expect from such a place. Waterfall sounds, singing bird sounds. There is a light breeze blowing through. The path splits off in multiple directions, all of which seem to eventually lead to the ceiling.

The path has no walls of its own, so you can easily fall off the path and go falling into space. The walls are a football field or two away on either side and join with the massive landscaped ceiling.

(I'll wait for everyone else's reactions before I bother with my alts)
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:39, Fri 25 Feb 2011.

"Sure I would," Mittens answers, "Reraise is a 25th level white mage and 35th level scholar spell.  It's elemental attribute is life and it drops off Topaz Quadavs.  But you already knew that didn't you, Mr. Smartypants?  Oh.  You're leaving.  Oh well.  Good luck with the surviving on your end too."

She waves bye-bye as the guy leaves.

"Well that's one less person to have to keep track o...spoke too soon."

Enter Bamzor.

"Hello tall golem-like person.  Mittens of Win... of the Fire Nation.  Sympathies for your loss.  Approval for your chosen intentions.  Sentiment returned."

Robots are a new concept for Mittens.  Rock monster seems more the norm for her.  That and the rock guy hasn't entered conversation, so no need to react to him.  Gaze returned to J'Renn.

"Thanks."

She gives a grin and a thumbs-up to J'Renn and follows along on the path.  She drinks in the scenery bright-eyed and tail-waggy.  She offers a side-hug and fist-to-shoulder grind to try and lift Timothius' spirits.

"Fancy," she says, "Of course, I would have expected no less from something as epic as all this.  Since I don't carry around low value objects, someone toss something over the edge for me."

One of her entourage tosses a low value coin over the edge of the pathway to see what happens.

(( Prism?  What's this Prism person you speak of?  The player has decided to drop that character for this RP.  Already enough of a time investment as it is with just this one character.  So Prism simply stays behind without a word. ))

  Bamzor was fairly certain he did not need the approval of any of them to make the attempt.  However he did not doubt actually having some of their approval would make his life easier than if nobody wanted him to survive.  "Your sympathy is appreciated, Queen of win." He knows that is not an accurate title for her, but sometimes taking things the wrong way on purposes can be a good thing.

  As they enter the path, considerations of flying or teleporting to the end of it are discarded because it would defeat the purpose of the path itself.  "I find myself wondering if it is merely coincidence such a perception orientation is not unlike some space colony designs."

  The coin drop means Bamzor also can more easily resist the urge to drop a small cannonball into 'space'.

The coin just keeps falling and doesn't come back.

Timothius says, "I wonder..." he looks up and says, "I'm going to try flying up there and see if gravity changes."

He charges forward, spreads his wings, flaps and finally takes off before gaining altitude towards the 'ceiling'. After a certain point, he bumps into something and starts falling, but manages to catch himself with his wings and land back on the path. "I think this place is strict about following the path.. flight might prove useful for other things, but skipping around probably isn't one of them."

Alexis says, "Then let me try something." and she creates a portal. She quickly discovers she can teleport around, but the same barrier Tim ran into blocks her ability to teleport.

Raichel doesn't comment on any of this. She just follows the group.

"You're welcome, Bamzor," Mits replies, "I was going to say Mittens of Windurst, but recent events have made my less recent origins somewhat less relevant.  Though I certainly don't mind being called Mittens of Win."

She watches the results of the coin toss, flight, and teleportation.

"Man I wish I could do stuff like that.  Ah well.  Not surprised with the results.  It's been my experience that places like this require you to fight your way to the end at least once.  If you're uber lucky, once you've succeeded making it to the end alive, then a short-cut becomes available.  But that's rare for places like this.

"Say Bamzor.  You happen to be exceptionally durable?  If so you're welcome to take the lead.  I'll take the lead if not."

Forward progression either way.

  Bamzor shakes his head, "Perhaps if I had been designed with a more modern Quark Resonator structure, or Meson shields.  Reflective Magnoceramic Latticework could be compared to just above the least of your enchanted armors, if I gauge correctly.  I would expect you all to be far more capable of protecting yourselves as the local royalty."

  Bamzor used Game Reference Technobabble.  Super Effective Yes?/No?

  Depending on the setting Bamzor's estimates could either be wild overstatements of spectacular understatements.  Of course Shelly counts as an exception, but she is A) not here, and B) Her father was the default of Water Kingdom Royalty and has already been shown to be somewhat badass.

  Also, it's a suckers game to take point on a dangerous 'winner take all' journey just because someone asks you too.  But that's entirely unrelated.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:20, Wed 08 June 2011.

Timothius takes the lead and says, "This armor isn't just for show, Mittens of Windurst." as he holds his shield up and marches forward. "What exactly are places like this, Mittens? You've been to places like the heart of the Universe itself?" he asks, doubt in the tone of his voice.

Raichel is quiet and follows along, not having anything to add.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:45, Wed 08 June 2011.

Alexis raises an eyebrow when Mittens admits to something she *can't* do. Mental note: Teleportation and flight are not in Mittens' list of can-do. Little does she know, if Mittens' player took the game too literally, Mittens is incapable of jumping too. But we'll ignore that game mechanic (or lack thereof). Still, it is clear flight and at-will teleporting were not meant to be part of the game.

Thank you, City of Heroes.

Alexis does look at her own feet with a slightly wierded-out expression. She wiggles her toes, takes another step, and then continues just following along. When she finds a turn to speak up, Alexis asks, "Mittens, what is your long-term goal?"

Meanwhile, Miranda seems to be examining Bamzor with fascination. Thanks to having been to the arena fight, she knows who the Shenhanigans are, but that doesn't mean she knows who Bamzor is or that he has anything to do with the Shenhanigans. However, "Forgive me for asking Mr Bamzor, but... did everyone from your world die?"

"Thank you, Sir Timothius," Mittens says to the armored one, "Protection spells all 'round!"

She she begins to cast a series of magical buffs on the group starting with herself that increase their resistance to magical and physical damage.  Which presumably work on all present.

"Places like the heart of the universe, yes.  In the same way a sapling is like a tree.  There's a place on my world called Ru'Aun Gardens.  It's a fortress in the sky of my world.  Beyond the Gate of the Gods.  There's a pathway there much like this one.  I have great expectations about this place.  I'll be rather disappointed if it turns out to be no more challenging than the gods of my world."

Mittens looks over at Alexis with a puzzled look.

"To find out what happened to spark the tragedy between our people and punish those responsible.  After that?  I dunno.  Find someone more suited to be the leader of the Fire Nation?"

  Considering currently the Shenhanigans list creating sentient machines as 'a big Nono' (No relation to certain Moogles), Miranda not realizing his production origins is not particularly shocking.  "There were no survivors of the Ze'Argen Clan's colony.  My purpose failed even before my first activation." Whine Whine whaa whaa.  Bamzor tends not to mention exact figures, because of a certain incident after someone responded 'oh, only that little died? Big deal.'

  "As spoken, I am here intending to find who or what was responsible.  Centuries have passed, and the trail was weak to begin with."  For reference, no they did not kill themselves.  No they did not Play God and not have what it took to put down their mad creation.  Only looser civilizations (or small groups that stand as an example of) go out like that.  "What of you?  Grand intentions have either been stated, or implied by those here.  I would not expect you to come along merely out of curiosity."