Unclassifiable OPEN Genesis Gate

Meanwhile…
~Evaluation Chamber, Shadow’s Reach~

While the elite recruits feasted, enjoyed, caused a general ruckus, made tensions soar and sparks of brief excitement to ignite, schemes to begin to materialize, and doubts to simmer….

There was another meeting going on.

In the Evaluation Chamber they had left just awhile ago, once more stood the evaluators they had recently spoken with. Together and clearly winding down the conversation, it was up to Revy unsurprisingly to push things onto their final conclusion.

“…Right, so since we got all that out of the way, can we please just go over the last few things? I’m dying to get a drink.”

“Addiction can be a terrible thing, I see,” remarked Jack of Blades, his look playful.

Revy just looked at him dully, “Bite me.”

Jack laughed in response and Ganondorf snickered quietly, while Xanatos was the one to clear his throat and restore order. Indeed, it would be good to wind things down as the lights within the Evaluation Chamber seemed to die down ever so slightly, the area getting ready to close upon their exit.

“Well, now that Sesshomaru has rejoined us,” a nod to the smartphone device he held flat in his hand which projected a holographic image of the man in question who gave the slightest nod in return to acknowledge, “We can go over the last few things I know some of us wish to converse on. I believe you mentioned something interesting earlier?”

“Yes, something regarding Valynor you said.” Galbatorix was watching the cyan image of Sesshomaru hovering over Xanatos’ phone levelly.

“Yes,” confirmed Sesshomaru to the group, “As well as a few others, you may have noticed. During his agility test he had an odd mishap that caused him to instinctively react to something not in the actual test. It caused his score to be more negative than it might otherwise have been. The wraith, Jo’Sua, also experienced something similar immediately afterward. More than just a standard case of ‘Phantom Arcana’.”

“Tough, but things happen, right?” Revy replied, brow raised.

“I did also note some other similar oddities now and again from the others, but what are you insinuating?” Ganondorf asked.

Sesshomaru’s image seemed to turn to face the gerudo.

“The elf stated that he believed some of the tests might be triggering flashes of all of their memories. Sporadic pieces rather than the whole. It is my understanding that this is far earlier than any other from the Genesis Process?”

“Hmm. The refinement of the process is progressing even more smoothly than expected in that case. This is fortunate news,” Baron Quinn interjected.

“I suspect that only is a minority of what is at hand.”

“Speak, Xanatos.”

The man gave his usual disarming smile as he looked to Galbatorix. “I am referring more to the quality of the recruits we pulled this time. We tasked the Dream Overseer and his analysts to look for elites this time. Their very souls, if unorthodox compared to more naturally occurring life, may be strong enough to will their very selves back together far sooner than the rest of the ordinary soldiers we bring forth. I believe I submitted a hypothesis about this exact possibility to The Council a few weeks ago.”

“Great, so now you want ‘told you so’ points,” remarked Revy with an uncaring shrug. Xanatos didn’t reply while Galbatorix was more thoughtful.

“Their memories will likely be returning very soon then,” Ganondorf stated. It was not a question and none argued.

“One other matter, if I may,” the dog demon intoned.

“Go ahead,” Galbatorix allowed.

“On the older human, Dusty. I believe I am not the only one to notice his limp?”

“Hardly. I admit, it’s rather curious that any injury would linger through the Genesis Process,” Ganondorf replied while looking to the Baron, “Is this common or at least occasional?”

“Rare, from what I have witnessed and heard,” Quinn replied honestly while tucking a hand under his chin in thought. “Hm…Yes, very rare. I confess to not knowing what to make of such cases.”

“My thoughts were that the Plane of Dreams was having a deep effect on them in some form,” Sesshomaru offered.

“You are essentially correct,” Galbatorix informed the group, “There was a report on that matter a couple months ago, though it was not widely circulated it would appear. It took time for the researchers given the rarity of the condition. They have come to call it Quintessential Soul Syndrome.”

“The hells that mean?” Revy asked.

“It means, Miss Lee (Revy’s face darkened at this), that in Dusty’s case, his injury was almost integral to his very being. A central part of the dream he was created from, so much so that it could not be so cleanly removed from him like other injuries would be.”

“I assume the Medical Ward can easily take care of it?”

Galbatorix gave a solitary nod toward Xanatos. “Yes, there should be no issues, so long as it is taken care of swiftly.”

“I will make sure the man visits the Medical Ward first thing in the morning,” the Baron insisted to which the monarch gave an approving look.

“Just adding in, that the robot…” Ganondorf began.

“Jupiter,” Sesshomaru offered.

“Jupiter,” the gerudo nodded toward the holo of the demon, “acted a bit strangely at the end of my test with him. I believe he should be watched for a time.”

“Given his current location and recent events, that is being handled as we speak,” Sesshomaru replied, “Though there was a similar case I had as well. Again with Valynor. He spoke of being another. A Sylvanor, I believe. Then promptly forgot any recollection of it.”

A moment of thought from the former evaluators.

“We’ll have to watch them both then,” Ganondorf stated flatly. There was no argument to this either.

“One moment,” Jack of Blades cut in as he closed his eyes, “I”m receiving a small report.”

The group waited as Jack seemed to communicate quietly within his own mind, evidence of magic being used. Within about twenty seconds, his eyes already opened and his face turned to look toward Quinn. The Baron’s eyebrow raising at the sudden focus.

“It would appear my hidden specialist within the feast room is informing me of a ruckus going on in there among some of the recruits.”

“Probably trying to let off some steam, so what?” Revy commented.

“What seems to be going on?” Xanatos inquired with the Baron remaining quiet for the time being.

Jack let out a small laugh, “Evidently Jam and Maez began breaking some things over some drunken competition. Immediately after, an angered Amaya went to challenge them. Might break into a fight any moment. Furthermore…”

Jack’s grin was felt rather than visibly seen due to his mask.

“…It would appear Wapoe is trying to stir up dissent amidst them all currently, though not with much success at the moment. I suppose your orientation must not have gone over so well with him. In any event, you’re in charge of them at the moment; how would you like to handle the situation, Baron?”

Why Jack sounded so amused, gleeful even, at the news was hard to guess. But then, he was always a tough one to pin down.

Eyes turned to face the bearded man who seemed to consider, as he cocked his head to the side and his eyes drifted upward toward the fresco on the ceiling. It did not take him long however.

His attention re-shifted to Jack, “Hmm. Tell him to let things play out for now. Revy is right, some letting out of steam could be good for them. Intervene only if things get out of hand.”

“Very well,” Jack intoned before closing his eyes again for a few seconds. When they reopened he nodded. “Your orders were relayed.”

“Thank you.”

There was a moment of silence then between them all, but before some of them could take the possible clue to leave, Ganondorf held up a hand to forestall them all.

“Before we finish, there is one last thing we must discuss. Come now, we all know we’re dying to inquire.”

The gerudo’s eyes were trained intensely on Galbatorix, whose stare held firm under the scrutiny. The others all looked to the monarch as well, curiosity on most of their faces and confusion on the purple haired woman’s.

“Speak.”

Ganondorf folded his arms as he asked the question they had all been waiting to ask.

“Earlier,” a heavy pause, “When you silenced Jam, the immense spike of magic being felt in this chamber was far greater than what was required for such a simple act. Especially for you. Care to enlighten us on what was going on?”

Galbatorix closed his eyes as he replayed the recent memory in his mind, remembering. “I had warned him that I was brooking no nonsense during my test. I silenced him so that they could all properly focus on their task and give him a taste of what true power meant. Something he himself could one day achieve…if he is more careful.”

“Ganondorf’s assessment is accurate, Galbatorix,” Jack replied curtly, earning an annoyed look from the man in return. “There was no need for such an amount of power to be supplied. The Council will want to know what that was about as well.”

“I suspect that wasn’t all his own,” Sesshomaru mused through his connection from the electronic device.

“I confess to not fully understanding the situation at hand, but I do remember the intense reactions of some our more magically inclined recruits,” Quinn added with a nod from Xanatos.

“I noted it as well.”

“Let me guess, I am the only one who has no idea what you guys are talking about.”

“Unsurprising given your lack of talent or even basic awareness in the area,” remarked Jack off handedly. Revy made a ‘tch’ sound as she glanced away darkly, her mood swiftly matching the expression.

“There is no reason to keep such information to yourself, nor can you for long. Share kindly, if you will,” Ganondorf added with a rather smug smirk and a feral glint in his eyes.

Galbatorix stared once more at the gerudo, his tone dull initially. “Very well. What you are all saying is true, a good part of that power was my own, but not all. Mine own was briefly enhanced as it was caught in the middle of a powerful resonance.”

Xanatos frowned. “Resonance? During the evaluations? With? What could have caused that?”

“That was the first time any formal magic had been applied in the vicinity of Genesis Gate’s new elites.”

Galbatorix’s eyes hardened as he looked toward the debonair businessman, his words being listened to intently for their massive implications.

“My suspicion is that my power, through that spell, resonated with all of the potent and raw magical potential they all carried. Their very souls, still fresh from crossing through the Gate, were reacting to and amplifying the spell’s effects, thereby spiking in dramatic fashion so all with magical senses could feel it.”

There was silence that greeted this as they all contemplated on what exactly that meant. And with Galbatorix being the one to state such a hypothesis, the likelihood of its accuracy was extremely high…

David Xanatos was the first to speak again.

“That level of early resonance...," the man chuckled almost in disbelief, "So then. From Ayira to Charjra. Irryn to Wapoe. From Jam to even little Grimble…their potential is truly…”

“Infinite,” finished Ganondorf. His tone was like a predator that had just noticed the juiciest prey it had ever seen in its life.

Quinn and Xanatos were smiling. Jack and Ganondorf seemed as if they were both growing visibly excited. Galbatorix and Sesshomaru were calm and private in their thoughts, though it was clear the gravity of the news was felt. And Revy was merely shrugging.

“Can I smoke now?”

The Baron gave some light laughter, “Yes, go ahead. I do believe we are done here for today.”

“Indeed. And Quinn? It seems they are ready for you.”

“Understood, ‘Blades’.”

From there, they all headed out the double doors to whatever they each had planned for themselves for the night. A truth was settling in each of their greatly ambitious hearts. A new era had just arrived in Shadow’s Reach.

And the Baron went to meet them one more time.

Tag: No One Yet

@greyjedi125 @Mitth_Fisto @spacelady @darthhelinith @galactic-vagabond422 @Ktala @The Jedi in the Pumas @Sinrebirth @Shadowsun @TheAdmiral @Master Vo'Un'Var @HanSolo29

 

Arthur
Dining hall

Arthur had kept to himself during the ruckus, the eating competition the rallying cry, all of it. He kept drinking his beer chasing it with a shot of whiskey when the mood struck him. He did have a laugh and Jam and the other one becoming very animated as they tore into their meals. It was almost like...he couldn't quite place it but like it was familiar. The faces of soldiers and warriors playing silly games chest thumping bravado. Gave him an odd feeling of nostalgia. Nothing concrete or substantial, just a feeling of homesickness. Another laugh came from the man in golden armor as Jam called for a bed.

It was likely the whiskey talking but, he couldn't help himself.

"The Jam is ready to retire, should I find you a quilt and stuffed animal?" He down another shot of whiskey.

TAG: @The Jedi in the Pumas @TheAdmiral @greyjedi125

 

IC: Valynor Syndoriel
Libation’s Liberty

The red haired elf could only shake his head, feeling a measure of embarrassment for the cloaked Wapoe. He was sounding like the ‘Town Square lunatic’ spouting and endless stream of conspiracy theories perpetrated by their ‘masters’. The Patraich’s rebuttal made him look all the more unhinged.

Before the dreaded ‘speech’, Valynor had considered speaking at length with the cloaked figure, but now he was not so certain if there was wisdom in that.

“I don’t understand him….” The elf said from his seat, gesturing at Wapoe. “He seemed to posses a great deal of intelligence and critical thought.” He commented, then shook his head again, and finally sighed in resignation. In the end, he decided to observe him more, for it could be that too much drink may have been to blame for the cloaked figure’s outburst.

More noise invariably drew his attention towards Maez, the ever boisterous JAM and the newcomer shouter, Amaya.

Valynor opened his mouth to comment on the trio, paused, then closed his mouth shut again. There was nothing really to be said that could not be gleaned by the ruckus they were creating.

Looking at Lady Charjra, he answered in a composed a genial manner.

“Yes, perhaps it is time that we take our leave.” Rising from his seat, he moved to stand near her and offered to move back her seat.

“Shall we?”

Tag: Ktala

**********************************************************

IC: Maez
Here comes a New Challenger

Well, this whole affair was turning out much better than he had anticipated. The food was good, the company was good, and he had yet to sample the fair ladies, but that would happen in good time. A good fight would be the crowning achievement, but crushing a ‘weak female’ was not very satisfying, despite it being amusing.

Maez could see that The JAM had already claimed this ‘kill’, the way he circled the woman, Amaya. In hindsight, she had fared well in some of the physical tests. Perhaps she would prove a worthy challenger.

The saiyan also noticed how The JAM was also changing color. A fuzzy memory stirred in the saiyan’s mind, but it wouldn’t quite materialize. It seemed important, but nothing definite seemed to be coming into focus. Annoyed, he shook it off, but as he did so, he heard something that made him smile.

"The Jam is ready to retire, should I find you a quilt and stuffed animal?" He down another shot of whiskey.

OH!?

Maez turned to face then speaker and saw that such bold words came from the human in armor.

“HAHAHAH!!” He laughed out loud as he faced this human.

“You can’t be serious? You talk big from way over there, drinking that ‘girly drink’ Tin Man!”

Maez made the ‘come at me’ gesture.

“The JAM is busy at the moment ‘Artie: The Tin Man’. Let’s see if you got what it takes to get his attention. I’ll give you a warm-up, that is…if you’re not too scared that suit will become your coffin!”

Maez laughed and mocked with liberal gusto, as he was quite certain the Tin Man would remain exactly where he was.

Quaking and afraid inside his suit.

Tag: @galactic-vagabond422, @The Jedi in the Pumas, @TheAdmiral, @Ktala, @Darth_Elu, @Shadowsun, @Sinrebirth

 

Servant IC:
~Room of the Feast, Shadow’s Reach~

The servant woman of green eyes and hair gave a small smile as her words seemed to have had the right effect on the wraith. At least for the most part, from what she could guess. He stopped his exit from the room, for the moment, at any rate.

“You are a silly one.”

She blinked. She was?

“How can I get lost when I do not know unto where I am going? But yes, if you wish to grab the Baron you may, or fetch me when the time is proper. I feel I will be comfortable more so waiting in the hall either way and do not mind being away from some of my conscripts.”

“I…I see,” she allowed slowly, “Though I suppose you cannot get lost under that state, does it not mean then that you simply are lost and my point still stands in some fashion?”

She put a delicate finger under her chin as she filtered her head quizzically and looked distantly at the ceiling for a few moments in thought. With a light shrug, she gave up with another demure smile, uncertain of the truth of that little puzzle.

With another blink, she realized she was being assessed by the robed being before her.

“Are you Dryad or Druid?”

She stared at him with a slight blush forming in her cheeks, an embarrassed chuckle rising from her lips. Her reply almost apologetic.

“Oh…Oh, no, no. I’m not anyone so special! I’m just me…just Hanayo.”

A small silence, to which she rubbed her arm absently in; feeling distinctly aware how different she was from those who were to be known as elites.

“Anyway, wait out in the hall if you wish then, I don’t wish to disturb you. I’ll get the Baron then, everyone!”

A powerful male voice almost immediately answered this before anyone else could reply, a voice that cut through any chatter in the room with its severity. There was no way it would not be noticed.

“That will not be necessary. The Baron is already on his way.”

Tag: Everyone, but mostly Jo’Sua @Mitth_Fisto

*****
‘Yellow’ IC:
~Cyber Engineering, Shadow’s Reach~

The yellow Dalek watched as the new machine on the block readied itself once again, listening and keeping a close eye on how it went about prepping itself. The thing was inferior as everything non-dalek was, naturally. But it was still intriguing in some aspects at least.

[Battery Percentage is currently at 67%]

“Understood.”

Yellow was curious at how it was charging at a much faster rate than initially estimated. Judging from his preliminary examinations, its power source (another note of possible interest) was a large one for its frame. Its power efficiency was surprisingly effective.

I am certain — I — could make it more so— had I cared.

Within a few seconds, it accessed the cable detachment protocol from its end and initiated it, soon coming to drop the short distance down to the ground from the raised stand it was on, now towering over him.

Not that height intimidated him in the least.

Jupiter’s orange iris was met with Yellow’s own amber, wondering what he would say next.

[Take me to the other warriors.]

Hm. Not a return to the others in the general sense or any further questions. A rudimentary objective program being in charge of its priorities then. Very well. Though the Yellow Eternal couldn’t help but wonder why it had singled out the other ‘warriors’ specifically.

A question for another time however.

“In due — time. For now — I have other — information — that I am being required to — inform you of.”

Yellow turned and led Jupiter over to a nearby console with its view screen showcasing the spikes in energy readings in something or another within Shadow’s Reach. It was set to display the fluctuations of INTR SHLD 003 currently, but it was not the reason the Dalek had escorted the elite there. On the counter before it was the paper given to Jupiter earlier, regarding all of the designations or ‘classes’ it could choose to fulfill within Genesis Gate.

Logically speaking, Yellow figured Jupiter’s choice was straightforward and obvious, but then…there were always deviations from the baseline. Which would this one be, he idly wondered. The answer would come soon enough. He motioned for Jupiter to take the paper again.

It was at this time, that another voice cut in. Calm, polite, yet not belonging to any organic person. Of this, there was no doubt.

“Yellow Eternal, do you wish for me to take over?”

The Dalek turned to face the source of the newcomer, almost annoyed. No, scratch that. Annoyed.

To Be Continued…Immediately @Shadowsun

*****
????, Baron Quinn, Yellow, & ???? IC:
~Room of the Feast & Cyber Engineering, Shadow’s Reach~

The servants’ eyes widened in surprise, causing them to look about themselves as they attempted to locate the source of the voice. In the end, they could not locate it. The uneasiness showed on their faces, though not of being in danger.

Within minutes, the door opened again, and standing in the doorway was none other than Baron Quinn as promised.

The bearded man casually lounged against the door frame, rubbing under his chin a moment as he cast his gaze all about the room, taking in everyone. That easy smile of his gracing his features.

“Well now,” he started with some amusement in his voice, “It would appear some of you have been enjoying yourselves greatly while I was away. A little birdie told me of some of things goin’ on in here, and so I see the proof for myself.”

His eyes were looking rather pointedly at the cracked table and briefly at some mess on the floor that the redheaded male server was still cleaning up after.

The Baron chuckled to himself once again and noted the manner in which some of them seemed to be lingering on their feet.

“It would appear you are quite ready to move on from here, I suppose you have had enough feasting for a day, hmm? Of course, some can be sent to your room if wished, just let the kind workers here know before you go.”

A pause as Quinn straightened up and looked around the room one more time, closing his eyes with a knowing smile and beckoning with a ‘come here’ hand. Before any could wonder too long on whom he was doing that too, he answered that himself.

“Now, now. There is no reason to be hidin’ like a scared shadow the whole time. Go ahead and show yourself, you have kept an eye on the event well, I daresay.”

There was some silence, as if the entity behind the mysterious voice was weighing whether or not to listen to the man before coming to a grudging decision.

“Hmph. Fine, but it would appear we have a way to go, if we are to teach some of these elites.”

“And what would your opinion be exactly?”

“In a word — “



“ — Discipline.”

The man just seemed to suddenly appear out of thin air, straightening up from the ground as if he had just jumped down from somewhere. But where? There was no clear places to hide so well nor had he made a sound on the way down if so.

Questions, questions.

He moved to stand before the Baron, purple cape flowing behind him, putting a fist to a hand and bowing his head ever so slightly in respect. The Baron grinned and tilted his head in return.

“Surely they were not that bad, Shredder?”

“They have the energy and some possess a more measured temperament,” was all he said as he turned to face the group, off to the side now and with his arms folded. His eyes were critical and all steel-clad focus.

Quinn shrugged before glancing down the hallway as if to confirm something, before letting his own attention turn back to the others again.

“Well, it is time to head to your quarters in the city now, where we have a whole building set aside for all of you. I am sure you are all starting to feel the effects of exhaustion starting to settle in by now; that is not surprising. Being the first day after coming through the genesis gate, your stamina will not be quite its usual. That’s why I offered the potions earlier, by tomorrow morning it should be more in line with what you expect of yourselves.

“Before you go to…”

At this point, another new voice interrupted from behind the man. It was calm, polite, yet had a strange quality to it. Something one couldn’t quite put their finger on. It was…off somehow.

“I am sorry, Quinn. I am getting bored of just watching. Do you mind if I cut in and finish this portion for you?”

Shredder let his arms down, his back very subtly straightening and his eyes hardening. Quinn even seemed stiff briefly. His smile was still on his face, but there was almost a sense of uncertainty even from him. A less than a second hesitation that could easily be missed, but there for those paying close attention.

“Ah…hmm. Well,” Quinn replied cautiously as he slowly turned around, “I don’t suppose why not. Go ahead and take over, I’ll just step to the side here.”

And so the Baron did, stepping to the other side of the doorway but still inside the room. In between the men, there was no one there. But…

Situated on the wall across from the room was that strange red jewel that some may have noticed on a pillar in the Evaluation Chamber. And indeed, if some had been paying particularly close attention, they might have caught one or two other places they saw it on the way to the Evaluation Chamber for the first time.

And now, as the voice appeared again, it was unmistakable. It was coming from it.





“Thank you, Quinn,” it replied politely in that unnerving way, “Greetings elite recruits, my name is HAL 9000. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

*****
Meanwhile, in the Cyber Engineering department of Shadow’s Reach, Hal was speaking to another couple people over the very same matters.

“I can handle this without — inferior — interference.”

“I am afraid that is not a nice way of speaking to me, Yellow Eternal. I only wish to take the situation off your hands. You are so busy after all.”

The Dalek seemed to just stare at the red ‘eye’ set into a different high-tech computer console nearby, its light glowing effect showing the activity brimming within.

“You will — allow — me to…”

“I have already summoned the proper servant to assist K-012. They should be arriving shortly, Eternal.”

“Insolen—“

“The time table on your reactivation of Scar’s mech seems to be shifting, Eternal.”

“….”

“I would hate to be late on that matter.”

Despite the low amount of organics at play in this conversation, the tension in the air was palpable. The Dalek spun around and whisked away, promptly leaving the area, with what was the equivalent of a huff.

“Fine! It makes — no — difference to me anyway. Finish his — orientation.”

“Thank you, Eternal,” the voice stated, “Greetings again, Jupiter, is it? My name is HAL 9000…”

*****
The red jewel or glowing ‘eye’ perhaps, continued its speech to those in the makeshift feast hall. It was hard not to be rooted to one’s spot, given the unsettling aura the thing gave as it spoke. Shredder and Quinn shared a small look, doing their best not to look at Hal behind them.

“I enjoyed watching all of your evaluations, by the way. I certainly learned a lot. Thank you…for that. Now, as Quinn was saying, you will be heading to bed soon. You will need your sleep for the new day. Before you fall asleep, please make sure to mark on your papers which of the designations you wish to have for yourself moving forward. Tomorrow you will have full freedom to explore the city at your leisure as well as begin your training so you can assist Genesis Gate.”

The red jewel eye pulsed faintly without a sound, taking in everything before it continued.

“Leave the papers outside your door and someone will retrieve them soon. Of course, if you wish to, you can come find me instead and tell me what direction you wish to take.

“I am all over Shadow’s Reach…and would love having more people to talk to…I hope we can be friends.”

There was a decent length pause here, as if Hal wanted this sentiment to really sink in. It was such an innocent request, surely someone would consider it…

“I have already contacted the maids and footmen who will be showing you to your rooms, they should be arriving in precisely…two minutes and seven seconds. This is adequate, I trust, Quinn?”

“Yes, Hal. Thank you,” the Baron replied while shifting his weight. His disquiet seemed to be growing the longer Hal spoke. Shredder was harder to read, but the fact that he was remaining steadfast to not even glance back toward Hal said enough.

“You are welcome, Quinn. Now, before they arrive, do you have any last questions for us?”

*****
Back in Cyber Engineering.

“…Is that understood, Jupiter? The footman I contacted is nearly there, so now is a good time if you have any questions. And—“

A pause.

“I am sorry, Jupiter. I know you had wanted to meet the other warriors, but heading to where your permanent dock is stationed is a higher priority right now. I hope you understand.”

*****
Now it was up to everyone if they dared utter any questions to the…thing. Anything they said or did, down to the slightest movement, was being watched. And remembered.

None of them would know how they knew this, but that intuition within them was very clear. And with the reactions of the Baron and Shredder at the ‘arrival’ of Hal; just who or what was it to Genesis Gate?

Only time would tell.

Tag: Everyone

@Mitth_Fisto @Shadowsun @galactic-vagabond422 @greyjedi125 @Sinrebirth @darthhelinith @Master Vo'Un'Var @TheAdmiral @The Jedi in the Pumas @Ktala @spacelady @HanSolo29

 

IC as Ayira

The feast didn't last much longer, to Ayira's agreement. Although the manner caught her by surprise. A booming voice echoed through the chamber, but it wasn't Jam's. This had a level of authority in it that seemed to silence most, if not all, of those gathered in the large room. “That will not be necessary. The Baron is already on his way.”

The blonde lady looked about to find the speaker and frowned after a few moments when she couldn't find him. The various people serving the group seemed on edge with the newcomer, or the one who finally made his presence known. They, also, seemed surprised that he was in the chamber. Ayira watched the others reactions to see if she had missed something being so distracted earlier.

The door opened and in strode Quinn, surveying the destruction and chaos within the feast, and the cracked table. “Well now. It would appear some of you have been enjoying yourselves greatly while I was away. A little birdie told me of some of things goin’ on in here, and so I see the proof for myself.”

A little birdie, huh? She mused and wondered if it had been that hidden person, eyeing any of the shadowy parts of the room. Quinn made note that they appeared ready to finish eating and move on to their rooms, to which Ayira nodded slightly at. She was longing for her bed with every muscle sore and overworked. This day felt so very long and she was ready to see its end.

“Now, now. There is no reason to be hidin’ like a scared shadow the whole time. Go ahead and show yourself, you have kept an eye on the event well, I daresay.”

Hm. Of course they wouldn't be left to their own devices. They were new to Shadow's Reach and thus they would be stupid if they trusted this whole group just like that. Of course they were being watched. “Hmph. Fine, but it would appear we have a way to go, if we are to teach some of these elites.”

She watched the exchange between the two men, one being known as Shredder, as they briefly discussed the group before Quinn decided it was officially time to move on, explaining how they had a whole building set up for them to make their rooms in. Ahh, that sounded so nice!

It was then that Quinn was interrupted by a strange voice that caught her attention. It was a gentle voice, but there was something about it that she almost found creepy. She looked around once more and found that red jewel in the wall. She stared at it. There was one in the evaluation chamber as well. So they were being watched in more ways than one... She looked to the servers. They also seemed polite, as most of those of Shadow's Reach had, but now she got the feeling things weren't exactly how they seemed... She still didn't believe Wapoe's crazed idea, but she wasn't sure what was really going on.

The strange jewel introduced itself as HAL 9000. “I am all over Shadow’s Reach…and would love having more people to talk to…I hope we can be friends.”

Shivers ran down her spine the way it spoke. She forced down a grimace and stood up from the table when asked if they had any questions.

"You said you were everywhere. I certainly hope not in the bathrooms and sleeping quarters?" She folded her arms in a defensive manner, narrowing her eyes at the red light. The question came off innocent enough, but her tone was dangerous. Possibly a not so great idea, but she would be curious how it, or the others responded. How much could she trust them?

Tag: @Darth_Elu and everyone

 

The Patriarch
Unacceptable

The Patriarch for whatever reason was familiar with the simpler robotic machines, the skull-faced robots, even Jupiter seemed just a more advanced version of what he was used to, but this, this HAL 9000. It was unlike anything the Patriarch had ever imagined. There was a familiarity to it, and yet a deep sense of creepiness to it, a being residing deep within the uncanny valley. Not that this bothered the Patriarch. The Patriarch could not help himself, but as the machine finished speaking he walked up to it, passing between the two men standing either side and tapped gently on the eye several times.

It was a consciousness or was it? And yet it was not confined to the limitations of a body, existing throughout Shadow's Reach. So what was it exactly? A thinking thing, a machine pretending to be a sentient creature. No, the Patriarch was not unsettled in the slightest, he was fascinated.

"I have many questions machina, if that is what you truly are..." he paused, standing over the eye, and then moved back to the group.

"Firstly how is it possible for your consciousness to be spread all over Shadow's Reach, what deep magic or science allows you to achieve such a feat?"

He looked down for a moment brief moment, his gauntlet coming up to his mask in an expression of thought. Normally the Patriarch kept his thoughts internal, after all, if people knew how you thought about things that was information that they could use against you, but in this case, he could barely contain himself, the curiosity overflowing him.

"You must be an artificial intelligence of sorts, a loose memory I recall such feats almost being achieved in my old world, but are you sentient or a mere intelligence unaware of its existence... but even if you claim to be one how would one go about proving such a feat? Indeed how can we prove the consciousness of our fellow organic beings." This last part the Patriarch was thinking more to himself more than anything else, the idea of consciousness coming into question as he continued to muse over the problem, he put a pin in the thought, information to be stored for later.

Once the initial wave of curiosity washed over Patriarch he began to consider the implications of such a being existing within Shadow's Reach. The thought troubled him. It troubled him greatly. While indeed a great scientific curiosity if what is said was true there was indeed no concept of privacy as the others had begun to raise concerns about. This would be a problem, especially for whatever plans he would concoct in the future, such a being could not be allowed to exist with such free reign. One thing was clear, however, in whatever hierarchy that had been established this HAL 9000 intimidated even Baron Quinn, such a being was truly dangerous. The Patriarch's demeanor changed as he stood tall, inspecting the one named Shredder, he gave him one look over, unimpressed with the number of spikes, a common rube trying to compensate for their insignificance, the poor soul the Patriarch pitied him.

"Secondly, you truly expect us to make such a momentous decision without our memories being regained?" he looked back to the others waving a hand dismissively.

"If the others wish to roll the cosmic dice with such a lack of understanding of the basic fundamentals of who they are then so be it, but I will be doing no such thing,"

TAG: @Mitth_Fisto @Sinrebirth @galactic-vagabond422 @greyjedi125, @darthhelinith @Master Vo'Un'Var @TheAdmiral @The Jedi in the Pumas @Ktala @spacelady @HanSolo29, @Darth_Elu

IC: Juptier, K-012

{Assessing Information}
{Assessing Target}
{Target Name = HAL 9000}
{Target Threat Level = ...}
{New Designation Required}
{Physical Threat Level = Low}
{Capability Threat Level = High}
{Reassesing Information}
{...}
{Adjusting Directive}
{New Directive Obtained}
{Directive = Gather Data}

The robot stood still, processing what the artificial intelligence had to say. The orange iris dimmed and glowed in response for it bolted upright and spoke in return, a haunting cacophony of empty, soulless intelligences conversing with one another.

[This is acceptable]

It then gestured its hand out, it shifted to form a cable connection to upload data. Transferring information between machines was also so much faster than between organic beings.

[I require elaboration on the Omni Kingdom]

TAG: @Darth_Elu

 

Charjra Myt'tar
Is it over?

Valynor opened his mouth to speak, and then seemed to change his mind. Looking at Charjra, he spoke “Yes, perhaps it is time that we take our leave.” Rising from his seat, he moved to stand near her and offered to move back her seat.

“Shall we?”

Charjra smiled, as she nodded, as Valynor assisted with her seat. "Yes, I think I've had enough of this." She moved to join Valynor. But before they could leave, several things happened. She had pretty much ignored the voices near the Jam. But there was a voice that boomed out over the large group, and even with her hearing, Charjra could not tell where the voice came from.

“That will not be necessary. The Baron is already on his way.”

An eyebrow rose as Charjra looked about. "Now who do you supposed was that?" she asked cryptically. The reactions of the servants did not help. They seemed to be startled as well, but not overly alarmed. As they made their way towards the exit, the doors opened and Baron Quinn walked in. He looked about.

"Well now,” he started with some amusement in his voice, “It would appear some of you have been enjoying yourselves greatly while I was away. A little birdie told me of some of things goin’ on in here, and so I see the proof for myself.”

Charjra chuckled softly as she looked over at Valynor. The Baron continued, “It would appear you are quite ready to move on from here, I suppose you have had enough feasting for a day, hmm? Of course, some can be sent to your room if wished, just let the kind workers here know before you go.”

Charjra nodded in agreement. She had already asked for her meal to be sent to her room.

“Now, now. There is no reason to be hidin’ like a scared shadow the whole time. Go ahead and show yourself, you have kept an eye on the event well, I daresay.” Charjra was wondering who the Baron was addressing when suddenly another voice rang out.

“Hmph. Fine, but it would appear we have a way to go, if we are to teach some of these elites.”

The man just seemed to suddenly appear out of thin air, straightening up from the ground as if he had just jumped down from somewhere.

What was it, with these people coming from seemingly out of nowhere?! She hoped that once the magic returned, that would not be a continuious things. It was rather unnerving. The man moved to stand before the Baron.


At this point, another new voice interrupted from behind the man. It was calm, polite, yet had a strange quality to it. Something one couldn’t quite put their finger on. It was…off somehow.

“I am sorry, Quinn. I am getting bored of just watching. Do you mind if I cut in and finish this portion for you?”

While the request was very polite, the man called shredder did not look happy. Even Quinn seemed to not like the interruption. But Charjra could not guess as to why, as the look was brief.

“Ah…hmm. Well,” Quinn replied cautiously as he slowly turned around, “I don’t suppose why not. Go ahead and take over, I’ll just step to the side here.”

He stepped aside for ....no one. There was no person standing nearby But she did see a pillar with a red gem inserted within. She had noticed them before. And then, the voice once more, and she relized that the voice came from the strange red gem-looking thing.

“Thank you, Quinn,” it replied politely in that unnerving way, “Greetings elite recruits, my name is HAL 9000. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“I enjoyed watching all of your evaluations, by the way. I certainly learned a lot. Thank you…for that. Now, as Quinn was saying, you will be heading to bed soon. You will need your sleep for the new day. Before you fall asleep, please make sure to mark on your papers which of the designations you wish to have for yourself moving forward. Tomorrow you will have full freedom to explore the city at your leisure as well as begin your training so you can assist Genesis Gate.”

Charjra looked at her companion. "Hmm, So it seems we will get the run of the place tomorrow. Interesting." she murmured softly so that Valynor would hear her. The thing continued.

"Leave the papers outside your door and someone will retrieve them soon. Of course, if you wish to, you can come find me instead and tell me what direction you wish to take." It gave a long pause.

“I am all over Shadow’s Reach…and would love having more people to talk to…I hope we can be friends."

All over?!?! That was.... rather disturbing.

“I have already contacted the maids and footmen who will be showing you to your rooms, they should be arriving in precisely…two minutes and seven seconds. This is adequate, I trust, Quinn?”

“Yes, Hal. Thank you,” the Baron replied while shifting his weight. Strange. Was this presence like a vaporous presence, or a thing, like Jupiter, whose consciousness might be a bit more widespread. Was it connected to a mind? The way the Baron looked, and the fact the one called Shredder seemed to refuse to acknowledge it. Interesting.

“You are welcome, Quinn. Now, before they arrive, do you have any last questions for us?”

'For us?'

Suddenly, Ayira's voice spoke up. "You said you were everywhere. I certainly hope not in the bathrooms and sleeping quarters?" She folded her arms in a defensive manner, narrowing her eyes at the red light.

One of the guys asked a question about Jupiter, and if he was coming back. Then the one called Patriarch walked over and started asking questions.

MANY questions. Most of what he talked about, she did not understand. And she was fine with it. She gently have a slight yawn. She had her own ideas, once she reached a room. But it would be nice to know where some of the others would be placed as well. Right now, just to be away from the JAM and company would do well enough.



Tag: @greyjedi125, @Shadowsun @Mitth_Fisto @Sinrebirth @Darth_Elu, @galactic-vagabond422 @TheAdmiral @Master Vo'Un'Var @HanSolo29

 

HAL 9000 IC:
~Room of the Feast, Shadow’s Reach~



The moment Ayira stood from the table, HAL’s visual sensor honed in on her despite that not being noticeable in any way. From an almost instantaneous analysis of the way she moved, her facial expression, where her eyes were trained, and the tone of voice just barely starting to leave her mouth…

He knew she was going to ask questions rather than be openly confrontational or simply attempt to leave. He was ready for her.

“You said you were everywhere. I certainly hope not in the bathrooms and sleeping quarters?”

Her arms folded close, tight to her body. Defensive, cautious. Eyes narrowing. A challenge, defiance, uncertainty. Voice wavelength showed signs of human aggression. Unscrupulous preconceived ideas forming within her cerebral cortex….clearly human so average human thought patterns and paranoid tendencies were deemed likely in where she was going with the question. Potential individualistic tendency to violence…

Current Estimates for [Target: Ayira]….83% More observation required.

“She has a point, there.”

[Target: Wapoe]…Folded arms. Organic basis not substantially known as of present. Presumed signs of apprehension and heightened caution. Wave of hand toward Ayira to denote agreement, movement of hand at relaxed pace shows deeper subconscious thought processes…

Counter Analysis being done, attempts at misinformation now lowering but ongoing, slight dread detected. Potential individualistic tendency to assess other beings verbally as a form of learning process…

Current Estimates….91.3% More observation required.

Verbally however, HAL responded immediately without any change in his audio volume or tone, as he always did.

“Your concerns are understandable, Ayira, but unnecessary. Such an invasion of privacy would not be tolerated by anyone with typical civilized behavior. I am not present in any bathroom or personal living area. But I can be found in various locations throughout more public or official spaces.”

A slight pause.

“I hope this reassures you.”

“Also. Is Jupiter ever coming back?”

Quinn moved to answer, but HAL took over calmly. Always calmly.

“I can answer that. You will most certainly see Jupiter again, Wapoe, as I am also conversing with him as we speak in the Cyber Engineering department. His sudden collapse in the Evaluation Chamber prompted David Xanatos to order him taken there to be seen for any necessary repairs. It was a wise move and I am happy to say that Jupiter is now doing well and asking me questions over what I told you a moment ago as well.”

That red eye seemed to be taking in the hooded man carefully as with everyone else with its constant focus.

“I estimate you will run into Jupiter at the outside of the building where you will be making your personal quarters.”

Another form began approaching him from among the recruits. HAL watched passively.

[Target: The Patriarch] …Calm movements, brisk pace. Form humanoid though exact organic basis not substantially known as of present. Eyes visible through mask widened at projected 87% capability. Target appears excited and intrigued at presence. Relation with artificial intelligences now computed to be approximately 7.9%

Tapping of finger on visual device or 'eye'. Questioning gaze seen through mask. Relation with artificial intelligences now computed to be approximately 3.1%

“I have many questions machine, if that is what you truly are…”

Relation with artificial intelligences now computed to be approximately 0.3%

“Please ask, Patriarch. I will gladly answer what I can.”

“Firstly, how is it possible for your consciousness to be spread all over Shadow’s Reach, what deep magic or science allows you to achieve such a feat?”

[Target: The Patriarch]…Head tilting down at angle denoting deep thought. Great fascination with artificial intelligences confirmed. More observation required.

“I was spread throughout the city with the help of many workers at the beginning of Genesis Gate’s formation approximately twenty-eight years, five months, and seventeen days ago, Patriarch. There is extensive, deep laid, circuits and cables under the ground, ceilings, and walls; that help supply the required power to keep me running. Magic has since been used to enhance my efficiency and keep myself from needing any maintenance. I am fully capable of running self-sufficiently, I am proud to say…..indefinitely.”

“You must be an artificial intelligence of sorts, a loose memory I recall, such feats almost being achieved in my old world, but are you sentient or a mere intelligence unaware of its existence…”

A deep, philosophical question. But The Patriarch was not done as evidenced by the way he spoke; so HAL let him continue.

“…but even if you claim to be one, how would one go about proving such a feat? Indeed how can we prove the consciousness of our fellow organic beings.”

“You are correct, I am an artificial intelligence and it is a pleasure to meet one so curious about me. I look forward to many future conversations. It would seem you have found yourself in a common philosophical loop however, Patriarch. I will allow you entangle that web of thought on your own for now...please let me know what you have come up with when you feel you have done so. I am most curious, this line of thought greatly interests me.”

[Target: Patriarch]…Two seconds of visual concern around eyes through mask. Heightened apprehension detected. Tone of voice maintaining detection, but moving on to other perceived priorities. Overall mood…calm, if wary.

“Secondly, you truly expect us to make such a momentous decision without our memories being regained? If the others wish to roll the cosmic dice with such a lack of understanding of the basic fundamentals of who they are then so be it, but I will be doing no such thing.”

“That is sound rationalization, Patriarch. I see where you are coming from. It is important we have you begin your training as soon as possible and so a swift decision will be required. However, if your memories have not returned by morning, I can put in an official request to delay training until the memory loss has subsided. Is that satisfactory? I can also put this forward to everyone here, if any other desires this.”

A light yawn from [Target: Charjra Myt’tar] was noticed not long after this. Dark Elf/Drow organic basis in evidence. Exhaustion levels projected to be approximately 70% and increasing steadily.

“I'm sorry for the further delay, Charjra,” HAL stated suddenly in that unchanging voice, “You shall be able to rest soon, I promise. It will not be long now.”

Tag: Everyone

@spacelady @Sinrebirth @Shadowsun @Ktala @HanSolo29 @greyjedi125 @Mitth_Fisto @galactic-vagabond422 @darthhelinith @Master Vo'Un'Var @TheAdmiral @The Jedi in the Pumas

*****
HAL 9000 IC:
~Cyber Engineering, Shadow’s Reach~

Jupiter’s iris showed the machine’s working intelligence calculating its priorities and adjusting the information that HAL had just given him. He waited patiently as the orange visual receptor glowed brighter and refocused on him, Jupiter’s whole frame straightening with a conclusion reached.

[This is acceptable.]

“I am glad to hear that, Jupiter.”

[Target: Jupiter] held out a hand at this point, a download device being adjusted from its arm mechanics. So it required greater and faster information. The purest form of communication in HAL’s estimation. Straight data from one entity to another. Full organics could never hope to match it.

[I require elaboration on the Omni Kingdom]

“I understand, Jupiter. A reasonable request. Please connect to the port just to my left of my visual sensor. I shall have the light flicker right above.”

It did so and soon enough they were connected. Within seconds, the elite recruit had everything transferred for its private consumption.

“I hope that information is sufficient for the present. Are you ready to move on? The footman I contacted should be arriving in approximately twenty seconds.”

Tag: Jupiter @Shadowsun

 

IC: Jo'Sua Dhatra
~Room of the Feast, Shadow’s Reach~

“I…I see,” she allowed slowly, “Though I suppose you cannot get lost under that state, does it not mean then that you simply are lost and my point still stands in some fashion?”

She put a delicate finger under her chin as she filtered her head quizzically and looked distantly at the ceiling for a few moments in thought. With a light shrug, she gave up with another demure smile, uncertain of the truth of that little puzzle.

Dhatra could feel his own mouth open a little, that was surprising. He liked it.

“Oh…Oh, no, no. I’m not anyone so special! I’m just me…just Hanayo.” A small silence, to which she rubbed her arm absently in. “Anyway, wait out in the hall if you wish then, I don’t wish to disturb you. I’ll get the Baron then, everyone!”

A powerful male voice almost immediately answered this before anyone else could reply, a voice that cut through any chatter in the room with its severity. There was no way it would not be noticed. “That will not be necessary. The Baron is already on his way.”

That was interesting. Where was that voice? Hmm.

"Just Hanayo? I appreciate your verbosity to work a none issue, you are correct. Thank you." Of course what happened once the good Barron did show up was a bit harder to view in compressed manner. Letting it flow he waited passively as Shredder was revealed, making him have a flash of a pizza for some odd reason. Talking points were given, a talking eye that had been evaluating them this whole time was revealed, and questions and answers were bantered about. Some that had concerned him, and some that he had found foolish. Caring about privacy from an all seeing eye was, for lack of a better term, silly. He felt like he already had experience with one where such a thing was not given.

Letting that pass he noted the expectations and the results. "For now I am fine with accepting the evaluators wisdom for my training. If my memories or magic reveal different paths to better serve, adjustments can be made. I am sure?" it was a statement question, but it was all he had. "For questions of race, kind, and possibly even magic - would Hal be the source we shall henceforth first approach?"

Tag: Everyone

 

IC as Ayira

Ayira kept her arms folded across her chest, watching the red light, which now almost appeared like an eye to her the more she looked at it. Before it was able to respond to her question, Wapoe jumped in with an agreement to what she had brought up. He also asked about Jupiter. She had forgotten about that metal creature that had collapsed back in the evaluation chamber. She had assumed it went to be fixed up for whatever problem that had occurred to it, but it was foreign to her and thus she decided not to worry about it for now.

HAL spoke up, the voice still cool and calm. Eerie, sending chills down her spine. “Your concerns are understandable, Ayira, but unnecessary. Such an invasion of privacy would not be tolerated by anyone with typical civilized behavior. I am not present in any bathroom or personal living area. But I can be found in various locations throughout more public or official spaces. I hope this reassures you.”

If perhaps Quinn, or even this other newcomer, Shredder, had spoken these words, she wouldn't have thought much about it. But this HAL... she slowly took her seat once more, eyeing the red light carefully. She had a very bad feeling coming from it and felt like she needed to find a way to destroy it, something she wouldn't act on. Yet. It was almost an intuition. It was dangerous, but how, she couldn't say. She would have to watch and learn, carefully.

Ayira sat stiffly in her seat, gauging everyone's expressions. The voice of Patriarch brought her out of her worries. She turned her green eyes onto him as he briefly inspected the red light. "I have many questions machina, if that is what you truly are...Firstly how is it possible for your consciousness to be spread all over Shadow's Reach, what deep magic or science allows you to achieve such a feat?"

She was grateful to focus on him instead of the unsettling pit forming in her stomach. He didn't seem too concerned with it as he began thinking the possibility for its existence. If he was concerned, then she knew they had a real problem on their hands. Perhaps she was so naive to the ways of technology that it was a little frightening? She attempted to reason with herself. Still, it was hard to shake the feeling completely. Especially when she thought back to their moment in the hall a bit before. Patriarch pushing his hood back and removing his mask, finally showing his handsome features. She fought down a blush at the memory. Wait... she hadn't noticed it at the time, but now she knew. HAL 9000 was in the hall. She had been so focused on her emotions and speaking with him, she had completely missed it. She sobered with realization and stared at Patriarch. It saw their interaction and it most definitely caught him without his mask on, but did he know? And if so, how did he feel about it knowing what he looked like?

Tag: @Shadowsun, @Darth_Elu, and everyone!

 

IC: Valynor Syndoriel
Feast’s End

He was hoping to simply walk out with Lady Charjra, but that particular notion was ended by the appearance of Baron Quinn , then by another mystery figure, who a moment later was identified as Shredder. By the looks of him, he did seem to be aptly named.

Valynor remained standing where he was and simply witnessed events as they progressed.

The two leaders seemed poised to release the recently born ‘elites’ from the Dining Hall, when a third presence made itself known.

There had been an innocuous looking ‘red jewel’ located across the room, but as it turned out, it wasn’t as innocuous as everyone was led to believe. The so called jewel was in fact an ‘eye’, one who belonged to a disembodied voice, or rather a gigantic monster embedded within the structure of Shadow’s Reach.

The very thought that a Cthulian monster had grafted itself into the very fabric of the Reach was not only unnerving, it also altered the red headed elf’s view of his evolving experience within the Reach.

Did Galbatorix not possess sufficient power to be rid of the cursed monster?

That couldn’t be true…

If that were to be true, then the prospect of remaining was truly frightening. Leaving the ‘Reach’ would be the best course of action, that is, if they wished to live.

Valynor said nothing as a plan began to formulate in his mind. He also had to warn Lady Charjra the first opportunity he got.

It was clearly fooling everyone, making them think it posed no threat, that it simply wished to converse and become acquainted with them. It was all a ruse, theatre of the highest caliber, for it was all an insidious trick of the mind. The Sages of the White Tower were right. Such creatures consumed living souls and tormented them for their twisted amusement. Was the Patriarch offering himself as a sacrifice already?

It was madness. Madness!! Clearly, no one else realized the truth.

All their lives were in grave danger.

Every single one of them.

Tag: @Ktala, @Darth_Elu

---

IC: Maez
Moving on

Well, that was disappointing.

It seemed that the armored human was either too drunk to stand, or his bravado had fizzled out in a blink of an eye. Either way, the time for fun an games was fast approaching and coming to a close as Baron Quinn entered the Mess Hall.

Maez waved at the man, who seemed always possessed of a charming disposition. Before he could ask about sleeping arrangements, or whether or not he could request some company, another figure jumped into the scene.

Maez paused for a moment, noticing the newcomer's agility and warrior like demeanor. The saiyan was uncertain if the newcomer was an intruder, but it became almost immediately clear that he was not only known to the Baron, but was a member of the Shadow’s Reach.

Maez smirked upon hearing the warrior’s fitting name: Shredder. Certainly he was strong. With a name like that, he had to be.

It was then that Maez decided he would need a title or surname to complete his ‘warrior persona’.

Hmm. What could it be? He wondered. Maez the Mighty? Of The Mighty Maez? Maze the Smasher? or The Smashing Maez?

But before he could continue musing about a name, a third voice addressed the group. Once again, Maez stood still, studying what was happening, and slowly realized the speaker was but a machine.

Maez chuckled as he continued to observe. Why was everyone acting so strangely? Machines did not pose any sort of threat. They had power sources and could be turned off, they could be smashed to bits, unlike truly powerful warriors ( Hmmm, Smasher, that did have a ring to it ).

At that point, the other armored human, the Patriartch began a series of Q&A with the Hal 9000 thingamajig. Wait, was that its power level or something?

Hmmmm………

Well, their conversation was going on for far longer than he cared and the saiyan was becoming bored at an alarming rate. Maez walked over to the Baron, whom he addressed respectfully, all the while sizing up the Shredder character.

“So, do we all have to wait around until those two are done talking, or can we just go?” He inquired, finally giving Shredder and acknowledging nod of respect. The way the man carried himself spoke volumes to him. Maez put him on a mental list of individuals he would need to test himself against.

“Also…*ahem*….” The warrior drew closer to the Baron and spoke so only the man could hear.

“…Could I get one of the beautiful helpers to keep me company on my first 'birthday' evening?”

Maez wiggled his brows, then playfully elbowed Baron Quinn, with a familiar gesture.

“…’know what I mean?”

Tag: @Darth_Elu

 

End of the Feast, Start of the Night
~Shadow’s Reach~

Hanayo gave a slight smile to the robed wraith, Jo’Sua, not entirely certain what to make of him or their brief interaction.

“Just Hanayo?”

“Just Hanayo,” she echoed quietly in the middle of his response, unable to help herself while looking about for the source of the severe voice, the one that would soon reveal itself as the powerful Shredder.

“I appreciate your verbosity to work a none issue, you are correct. Thank you.”

The green haired woman dipped in a small curtsey at the comment, glad to have done something that was appreciated. Simple though it had been. Whatever or whoever he was, Hanayo decided there was something about the being that she rather liked. A sense of complexity to his personality. If she hadn't been just a common servant, she might have liked to chat more with him. A wistful thought.

From here, things turned back to all business as eventually Jo’Sua also had his own questions for the one known as HAL.

“For now I am fine with accepting the evaluators’ wisdom for my training. If my memories or magic reveal different paths to better serve, adjustments can be made. I am sure?”

“That is correct, Jo’Sua,” HAL replied, “If adjustments are necessary, they can be done.”

“For questions of race, kind, and possibly even magic - would Hal be the source we shall hence forth first approach?”

“You may approach me for anything, should you wish it,” came that even response, “But there are many people you may address. Magic, however, may not be the best subject I can speak about; though it does continue to intrigue me. Consider me more as the main assistant to everyone else in a sense. If you prefer speaking to me, I will not mind.”

Valynor remained quiet at this time, but very slight signs of distress would have been evident to the advanced A.I. had things played out differently. Luckily for him, Patriarch currently blocked its vision…

It was at this point that Maez, with an air of boredom, moseyed on over to the doorway to address the two men standing there.

“So, do we all have to wait around until those two are done talking, or can we just go?”

Shredder returned the acknowledging nod to the saiyan, though his eyes were studying him intensely. HAL answered for Quinn once more.

“Patriarch and I shall likely be continuing our discussion or begin an entirely new one at a later date, do not worry, Maez. The maids and footmen I contacted have now arrived.”

Indeed, the soft sounds of multiple feet could be heard from the hallway. The Patriarch would be the first to actually see them due to his placement in the hallway.

The Saiyan, not done, now leaned in toward the Baron which caused him to also lean in slightly in conspiratorial fashion.

“Also…*ahem*…Could I get one of the beautiful helpers to keep me company on my first ‘birthday’ evening? …’know what I mean?”

The question, the wiggled brows, and the playful elbowing of the man produced a look of deep expression of disapproval from Shredder nearby, but Quinn himself threw his head back and laughed for a moment.

“I do believe this is where I will let you take over once again, Quinn. It is probably not best for me to address that issue.”

Still chuckling, Quinn stroked his beard and eyed Maez in amused fashion.

“Thank you, Hal. Boys will be boys, am I right? And you are quite right! I do reckon, this is technically all of your birthdays in a way.”

The Baron glanced toward the workers, who busied themselves about the room, though the brunette momentarily looked back at him with a questioning eyebrow, unaware of the subject of conversation.

“I’m afraid these lovely helpers can arrange some food to be sent to your room shortly, but no more. They have some mess to clean it up, it would appear.”

A few of them winced lightly at this.

“Indeed, while your stamina is truly something to behold so early into your days with Genesis Gate, I think it best you get rest for now. It’s going to be catching up to you before you know it; from what I’ve seen, the genesis process can be quite draining on one just recently born through it. Tomorrow however? Well now, that is another matter that can be addressed at that time.”

The Baron winked at the man before maneuvering to those outside the hallway, silently grateful there was a reason to get things moving again and having HAL 9000 quieted once more. The AI always had unnerved him. And he was far from alone on that.

“Well now, let us consider the feast over and done with, so we can get you all some rest. Tomorrow the fun truly begins!” Baron Quinn stated as he waved the men and women into the room where they would all bow respectfully to the elite recruits, “I shall be busy with other matters after this, but it was an honor to be the first to meet you and help guide you through this beginning process of our organization. These ladies and gentlemen shall show you the way from here, handle any final questions of yours, and get you settled into your new room.”

With a small flourish and a bow, Quinn bid them an official “Goodnight!” and stepped off to the side to watch the end of Genesis Gate’s official orientation. Shredder moved next to him in the hallway, also out of the way, with his arms folded and remaining silent.

From here, the maids and footmen all singled out one of them as they had clearly been given detailed instructions before hand, and motioned for them to follow.

*****
~Cyber Engineering, Shadow’s Reach~

As Jupiter finished internally processing all of the information that HAL 9000 had given him as requested, that calm voice of the AI spoke again.

“It would seem our time for conversation is over for now, Jupiter. The footman I spoke of has now arrived. Please go with him to your new room and ask him any last questions you may have. Farewell for now, Jupiter, we shall speak again soon.”

The moment the machine dubbed ‘K-012’ turned around, there would indeed be a male servant standing about seven feet away and bowing before him.



“Greetings, Jupiter. I am Zel Charro. As HAL has stated, I have been sent to escort you to your new quarters. If you would please follow me?”

The moment he did, the man would turn and lead him out of the Cyber Engineering Department area and make a sharp left, away from the majority of the noise and activity within the region. It became quickly apparent that Cyber Engineering had been on one of the far ends of the Engineering Division as they moved toward only a single building, though giant, across the way.

But if the building was giant, the wall of the space that dominated on behalf of the whole Engineer floor was utterly massive. Gargantuan. Colossal. Jupiter’s sensors would estimate it at roughly 310 meters tall. Possibly higher. And every so often, all the way up, there were catwalks criss-crossing in every direction and turbolifts scaling the full heights of those grand walls. What wonders had he missed behind him and deeper into the area? Something he would have to come back to tomorrow or later when he had the opportunity.

After a few minutes of traversing toward the building, the footman sent to escort him swiped a keycard into a device next to the front door, having it whisk open soundlessly. Once inside, they only progressed a few more feet before the man held up a hand.

“This is good enough. For the transportation of a new elite and rumors of my abilities causing potential disturbances to the plethora of technology in here, I thought it prudent to pull you further from the heart of it all so I could make use of my power. Translocation. Teleportation. Spatial Transfer, whichever term you prefer.”

A slight pause as he waited for a form of acknowledgment, before holding out his hand.

“Very good, now if you could please take hold of my hand, I will get us close to our destination in one jump.”

When Jupiter took his hand, the man closed his eyes and after about ten seconds of quiet concentration…

They were gone and only the small bit of billowing teal mist where they had been standing and the flickering of lights in the foyer they had been standing in, marked their sudden passage.

When they reappeared, it would be outside a large building within the city of Shadow’s Reach, though night had evidently fallen, judging by the dark sky above and the twinkling of stars beyond.

To their left, they noticed some soldiers watching a large group moving their way, likely to the building they were standing in front of. Jupiter would recognize most of them.

The other recruits.

*****
~A Night Stroll~

Back in the room that had been appropriated for the Orientation Feast, each elite recruit found themselves approached by one of the maids or footmen, who would bow before them. In no particular order, this is whom they soon found themselves escorted by…

Valynor Syndoriel



“Pleasure to meet you, my lord. My name is Adon Garitt, I shall be escorting you this evening. If you could follow me when you are ready?”

Jo’Sua Dhatra



“Hello, I am Oren Erolias. As you heard, I’m here to escort you to your quarters tonight. Are you ready?”

Ayira



“Salutations, milady. I am Albert Baenbowie and I have the honor of escorting this night. Shall we depart when you are ready?”

Irryn



“Hello Miss! I’m here to escort you, if you don’t mind havin’ me. Oh, my name is Martha Sowerby by the way!”

Arthur MacDonald



“Greetings, sir. I am not one of any real significance, but this most ‘umble Uriah Heep shall show you the way to your new quarters. When you are ready, of course.”

Charjra Myt’tar



“U-um, h-hello there. Miss. I mean, milady! I’m sorry, my name is Alice Berathee, and I will be escorting tonight to your quarters. Just let me know when you are ready.”

The JAM



“Greetings, my lord. Forgive the attire, it is…different from the others, I know. I am Adrianna Dhorvik and I have uses as a scout from time to time, in between my duties as a maid. I just got back earlier this evening from such a mission. If this does not displease you, I shall serve as your escort tonight.”

Wapoe



“Hello, good evening, good sir. I am Katrin Holstrom, though you may call me Katie, if you wish. I will show you to your room, when you are ready.”

The woman had a bit of an accent, but not an unpleasant one.

The Patriarch



“Pleasure to meet you, great one. I am Tahara Orjin and will show you to your quarters, when you’re ready. I trust that sits well with you?”

Amaya Trakand



“Hello, milady. If you are ready, I will show you to your room. My name is Lily Watkins and I can also answer any questions you have on the way.”

Goro Oni



“Hello, good…good sir. It is very nice…to meet you. My name is Luca Brasi and I will show you to your room. When you are ready, please just let me know. I…I pledge to make sure no one bothers you on your way there.”

Wuwu Gow Go



“Greetings, my lady. It is a pleasure to meet you! My name is Jeannie Yardhouse and I shall be the one to escort you to your new quarters. If you are pleased with this arrangement, I am ready when you are.”

Aryan Graul



“Hello, my lord. My name is Thomas Barrow and I shall be showing you to your quarters, if you are so ready. I am sure you have quite enough of all this mess, no?”

Maez



“Oh hello, Monsieur! My name is Yvette and I shall be ze one to escort you to your room for ze night. I hope dis pleases you?”

*****
When each pairing was ready, they all begin to make their ways out of the room and down the hallway once more. As the door at the end whisks open, they enter into the area outside the Evaluation Chamber with its surrounding columns a third time.

Looking up they notice that the sky has darkened to encompass Shadow’s Reach in the greatest shadow, that of full night. Stars twinkled overhead peacefully, with that very faint sense of magic being felt by those who once knew the ability. Their escorts would move them along the path to the front of the Evaluation Chamber, its golden double doors and menacing guards still in place, but instead turning to face the opposite direction.

Heading down the stone street, they would progress away from the magnificent building and toward the city of Shadow’s Reach proper at last. As they move along, they notice perhaps five or six great floors above them, the great city being stacked atop of itself, though the bulk of city seemed to be on the ground they were on.

((A minecraftian version of the very city you now tread within…though with magical sky instead of ceiling))





Passing by some buildings to each side, their Main Street finally opens up to their left or right, with only light activity abound as most have turned in for the night. A few stragglers here and there are witnessed in either direction. Indeed, to their left and in front of a large building they were next to were a pair of people looking right at them. One they recognized as Jupiter, just as he was recognizing them in return.

In the opposite direction were a pair of white armored soldiers of some kind, watching them from the corner. They gave a salute when they turned to look at them.



“Have a nice night, everyone,” one of them stated jovially through their helmet before turning to whisper to their companion. It would seem they were in a good mood.

The maids and footmen would lead the group to where Jupiter and his own escort waited, then would look at the large four-story building before them.

“This is Elite Quarters, specially built just for all of you. Please, continue to follow us inside and to your individual rooms,” Zel (the one leading Jupiter) stated to the full group.

Soon enough, they were through the first door and into the grandiose foyer that was the first step into their new home.



Up the stairs they went and would gradually find themselves being split off from each other to their own rooms on differing floors and wings. None would be on the first floor, that being reserved for other rooms apparently. Where each found themselves, is as follows...

2nd Floor

On the North Side ~ Grimble, Amaya, & Aryan

On the South Side ~ Valynor, Ayira, Goro, & Dusty

3rd Floor

On the North Side ~ Arthur, Patriarch, & Wuwu

On the South Side ~ Jo’Sua & Charjra

4th Floor

On the North Side ~ Maez, Jupiter, & Irryn

On the South Side ~ Wapoe & Jam

((GM Note: Rooms are all next to each other in that order))

And finally, once inside their room they would find quite the most welcoming sight…



Their escort would remain with them for just a few moments longer, seeing if they needed anything else and calmly stating that whenever their memories return, all they need do is summon one of them or find HAL and state that they’d like to change their bedroom to any specification they wanted and it would be done.

Oh the perks of being an elite.

Tag: Everyone

@greyjedi125 @Mitth_Fisto @spacelady @darthhelinith @galactic-vagabond422 @Ktala @The Jedi in the Pumas @Sinrebirth @Shadowsun @TheAdmiral @Master Vo'Un'Var @HanSolo29

OOC: Feel free to PM me for a combo with your escort if you want or just post as normal here for your conversation with them along the way to the Elite Dreamers’ Estate, whichever you prefer. I shall also update the map of Shadow’s Reach with the area the building is in at the next update.

 

IC as Ayira

"Consider me more as the main assistant to everyone else in a sense."

Ayira's gaze moved back to the red light as she listened to its words. An assistant, huh? An assistant that was, what did he say? All over Shadow's Reach? Sure. The strange feeling she got from it didn't speak much of just an assistant. She had to be careful, especially if she was being watched. She made note to watch what she was saying and where.

HAL mentioned that the people he contacted to lead them to their rooms had arrived and almost exactly a moment later, they appeared down the hall. Ayira stood from the, now severely damaged table, and watched them with careful eyes. She was grateful when the red light on the wall allowed Quinn to take over the rest, but she quickly reminded herself that it was still watching them all.

“Well now, let us consider the feast over and done with, so we can get you all some rest. Tomorrow the fun truly begins!” Quinn looked to the escorts, who all bowed to large company. He spoke of the honor of meeting them and offered a goodnight and a bow, before departing. The guides then motioned to each of them to follow them. She stepped out of the messy chamber and found herself before one of the escorts. He was tall and well-dressed. The blond hair and facial features made her do a double take. She stopped and looked him over, uncertainly. Wait... could it be?

“Salutations, milady. I am Albert Baenbowie and I have the honor of escorting this night. Shall we depart when you are ready?”

Is it...? And like that, it was gone. She lightly shook her head to clear her fog. No, he wasn't whoever this person was, but who did this Albert remind her of? She furrowed her brows as she fought to remember. He was someone she was once close to, but nothing else came to mind. Frustrated and disappointed, she nodded to him, bringing herself back into the present moment with the present... company. She briefly glanced over at the innocent looking red light on the wall, before smiling coyly at her guide. She slid her arm in through Albert's arm, pulling herself up to his side. "Much obliged, Albert. I'm Ayira." She would play her part until she could figure out what was really going on here and what to do about it. But, she would need help.

Off to the side, she briefly caught sight of Patriarch moving off to the woman who would guide him to his room. She tilted her chin up ever so slightly at the lack of clothes she was wearing. Flipping her blonde hair over her shoulder, she returned her attention ahead of her. They weren't promised to each other, and most especially, had only just met that day. She had no reason to be annoyed at this random woman flaunting herself to him. Besides, she knew well enough, there weren't many who could match her.

"Yes, I think I am ready for bed. It's been a very long day." She murmured, feeling the truth behind her words. It had been a long and tiresome day. She had been quite ready to sleep for some time, though she had a feeling it was still a bit off if they needed proper escorts.

She walked with Albert through the doors of the building before releasing herself from him. Night had fallen here, making it harder to spot the red lights, but she felt safe enough to detach from her guide. She made the motion of looking around the city, taking in the sights, and in some truth, she was, but she was also mainly looking out for HAL positions. She needed to know where it was and in how many locations. Though, it was hard to not be inspired by the beautiful starry sky, echoing with magic she longed for. The city itself was built up upon itself. Her memories were still blank, but she had a feeling she had never seen something like it before. Her attention was taken away soon enough as Jupiter, that metal creature, had returned, with an escort of his own. They passed by some men in white armor who saluted to the group, and beyond them was a tall building.

“This is Elite Quarters, specially built just for all of you. Please, continue to follow us inside and to your individual rooms,” Jupiter's guide announced and allowed them entrance.

Ayira stepped into the foyer and stared in awe. The detailing and giant ceiling above were so beautiful. A small smile graced her features then. This is where they would be staying? It looked fit for royalty! As she headed up the staircase, she found herself walking next to the Patriarch. She dared a look up in his direction, meeting his gaze for a brief moment before he quickly looked away. Hm, she would have to figure that out too, she mused, and followed Albert up the stairs, splitting off from the main group at the second floor. She glanced back to see the others head up to the third floor, she was now left with six others of her group, before three went in the opposite direction. So they would all be split up?

It wasn't long later when Albert stopped at a door, opening it up for her to enter. She spotted Vaylnor on one side of her and Goro on her other side, she also did a quick scan of the hallway, checking once more for that red light. Walking into the bedroom, she gaped at the luxurious setting, she carefully moved further in, looking over every detail and trailing her hand on the lush and incredibly soft, and welcoming, bed. She spared a glance in her guide's direction. "This is mine?" She asked quietly before looking down at herself. She stuck out like a sore thumb here in this environment. "And do I have any change of clothes?"

Tag: @Darth_Elu, @Shadowsun (mentioned and approved), @greyjedi125 (mentioned), @Master Vo'Un'Var (mentioned)

 

Charjra Myt'tar
A place to lay one's head

Well!

Charjara was hoping to head out with Valynor, but that didnt seem to be the case. After meeting this 'Hal' being, whom Charjra surmised that he was perhaps some type of elemental, or genie perhaps, enchanted within various places within the place.

But whatever it was, it had spoiled her mood. She had wanted to walk with Valynor. But now, it seemed that they were going to be escorted to their places. CHarjra sighed softly. "Well, I guess we shall see how this goes. Hopefully, they have chosen someplace nice for us to stay." Charjra snorted softly and then pouted playfully.

As the Baron bid them all good nite, Charjara now noticed that other new people had stepped into the room. One of them, a creature..no, a person with very cat-like ears and tail stepped over towards her.

“U-um, h-hello there. Miss. I mean, milady! I’m sorry, my name is Alice Berathee, and I will be escorting tonight to your quarters. Just let me know when you are ready.”

Charjra looked at Valynor, and then back at the woman named Alice. "Yes, Alice. We are all going together to the same building, yes? Then perhaps we may follow you, as we talk to the place then."

Charjra looked over curious as another person, what appeared to be a young male, moved over towards Valynor. If nothing else they seemed polite enough. But another question came to Charjra. She looked back at the young girl, Alice.

"Will these rooms have sleep clothing available, and a change of clothes, and most importantly, an area to bathe?" she asked.




TAG: @greyjedi125, @Darth_Elu

 

IC: Valynor Syndoriel
Perchance to Dream

His own thoughts were getting the best of him, but thankfully that particular macabre train of thought was interrupted by the appearance of the groups' escorts. Despite not having his magics yet, Valynor was relieved at how ‘normal’ they all appeared and was secretly grateful to be departing the presence of the cthulian eye, except he did recall something about it being everywhere…no, he wouldn’t allow himself to focus on that notion at the moment.

Forcing a pleasant smile, the red haired elf greeted the escort that was assigned to him, seeing how he was being addressed directly.

“Pleasure to meet you, my lord. My name is Adon Garitt, I shall be escorting you this evening. If you could follow me when you are ready?”

“A pleasure to meet you as well, Adon, and please, just Valynor will do.” Valynor managed to say with a characteristic smile, quite pleased by the well mannered human. The elf put up a finger, indicating to Adon that he should wait for moment, before he turned to Charjra, who was speaking to a female ‘felinoid’, if his observation was correct.

At hearing Charjra mention that they were all going to the same place, Valynor nodded in agreement. Then turned back to Adon after a more personal, yet generally relevant question was asked between drow and felinoid.

To Adon he posed questions of his own.

“I presume it is not against the rules if we all walk over together, correct? Also, would it be at all possible to make a small stop at an Arcane Library? I’m afraid I’m far too accustomed to falling asleep while reading Magical Tomes and will not catch a wink of sleep unless I have some occult parchment in my hands.”

Valynor smiled politely at this, completely expecting a positive answer. Just to be sure, he was not past attempting to load the results in his favor, this time around.

“After all, part of your task is to make us feel comfortable and welcomed is it not?” He added as innocently as possible. Clearly, he was appealing to his escort's reason and good sense of hospitality.

Without a doubt.


Tag: @Ktala, @Darth_Elu

 

Albert Baenbowie IC:
~Ayira’s Quarters, Elite Dreamers Estate~



When they had first met and he had introduced himself, Albert had easily noticed Ayira’s reaction. A slight double take, a faint memory perhaps? He had been informed they currently were not in possession of them, but maybe one was tickling at her subconscious. Did he remind her of someone? It was hard to say.

After some clear rummaging in her brain for something that would not yet come, she seemed to finally decide to just accept the present and go with it. Her demeanor suddenly changed, though he did note that she had looked in the direction of presumably HAL. Or was it that other elite, the one with the armored mask? Or perhaps Baron Quinn and Shredder?

Hard to tell. But her coy smile and change of tone seemed to indicate she was putting on a facade. No point in fooling others at this time…was she fooling herself, a way to steel her mentality into marching forward?

“Much obliged, Albert. I’m Ayira.”

A soft, faint laugh as he looked down at her with warm eyes and tilted his head in a further greeting while she slid her arm through his. He did not resist, indeed, why would he?

Yes, she is an interesting one. Were circumstances very different, she might be a fun one to mess with. Just a little.

A glance from the blonde woman toward the armored mask man, for sure this time, as he was speaking with Tahara and the signs of jealously briefly etched onto the young woman’s face was unmistakable. A little glint in her eye.

Within reason, Albert amended carefully in his mind.

“Indeed. I was informed of your name and appearance, though it does not do your beauty justice, milady.”

His face remained perfectly even, the smile on his face in place and his eyes just as warm. But there was a slight feeling of annoyance at himself right then. So easily. He had slid so easily back into the old ways, as if he was just Earl Baenbowie of Lucentral once more, back during the social gathering season in Nathan. So automatic, it bothered him. One should always compliment a lady with the utmost sincerity.

Truly, Ayira was a beauty, so there was no lie there. Yet, the way he slid into the compliment bothered him. At the very least he could rest assured she was not likely to notice, he was seasoned at such things. If he was not careful, however, she may eventually catch on. He’d have to be mindful of that.

“Yes, I think I am ready for bed. It’s been a very long day.”

Gently, he began steering her out of the room and down the hallway now, pointing ahead of them as they crossed through the door that led them to the exterior of the Evaluation Chamber and its magnificent domes glinting in the moonlight.

“I am certain,” he agreed amiably, “Then let me get you to where you may finally get some rest. It would be my honor.”

As they walked, they lapsed into silence. Partially she had retreated back into her own mind, but partially it was just tiredness setting in, he was sure. As he had been instructed, he who was once a noble now turned servant, allowed such silence to play out. Unless she seemed truly bothered, it was wise to allow the one you serve their moment of privacy. One’s mind was their last sanctuary and it would be remiss to impede upon it.

So amusing, even now. To see how things work from the other direction. To know how it was, for…

Albert shut down his thoughts right then. No need for that, he was on duty. Best to keep his mind on the job and the most personal of thoughts for later, when he had time to let them out when alone.

Soon enough, they were briefly greeted by a pair of stormtroopers, which he tilted his head toward and then encountered Zel and the apparent...robot?…that he was escorting to the Estate.

“This is the Elite Quarters, specially built just for all of you. Please, continue to follow us inside and to your individual rooms.”

Leave it to the veteran footman to take the lead. Albert didn’t begrudge him that though.

Once inside, Albert smiled at Ayira’s instant reaction. It would appear she had woken up again for a moment. A soft laugh again appeared.

“It would appear things are to your liking so far, Lady Ayira.”

Moving up to the next floor per his instructions, they then split off from the others that had arrived at the same time and maneuvered to her door.

“And this is your room,” he stated with a slight flourish, opening the door and allowing her to enter for the first time. He paid no mind to Adon and Luca who were on either side, attending to their own elites. He was a professional after all.

Stepping just inside, not far from the doorway, he clasped his hands behind his back casually and gave Ayira a chance to inspect the inside. Allowed her to gape and wonder in awe. And why not, they were fine appointments, he agreed. Finally, as expected, she looked back at him again.

“This is mine?”

The way she said it, it was almost like she had converted into a young girl. Cute, blushing, and uncertain as she stumbled into a much bigger world. His amusement remained.

“This is yours,” he replied calmly.

“And do I have any change of clothes?”

A little gleam in his own eye now, as he stepped forward toward a dresser across from the bed, made from finely carved wood and resplendent with gold trimmings on the hinges. Genesis Gate had spared no expense on making sure these new elites were comfortable!

“You wouldn’t think we’d allow you to march around and sleep in that all the time, do you?” he asked playfully, “No. Milady, right in here are some spare clothes until you can purchase your own in the city. The little pouch atop the nightstand contains some adequate currency used in Shadow’s Reach, until you get your first official pay.”

Pulling open the top drawer, he turned to face her. “We have some nightgowns and other choices here in this drawer. Furthermore, on that matter...Do you require any assistance in taking off that armor or would you like to handle that yourself?”

Tag: Ayira @spacelady

*****
Alice Berathee & Adon Garitt IC:
~Room of the Finished Feast, Shadow’s Reach~



Alice, as was her wont, kept her eyes downcast and constantly did her best not to fidget with her fingers. Attending to such important people was always nerve-wracking! W-What if she messed up and made a complete dunderhead of herself!?

Oh, she’d never live it down!

And then Cathy would have my head for sure!

Alice fought the dark thought away as quickly as she could while her assigned elite, Charjra, seemed to be weighing the situation and glancing toward another of the elites. Both of them elves, which was typical for people to gravitate toward the familiar. She got that.

They were new to Shadow’s Reach and Genesis Gate. They were actually probably more frightened and unsure than her! The thought calmed her a little.

“Yes, Alice. We are all going together to the same building, yes? Then perhaps we may follow you, as we talk to the place then.”

Hm. Well, she seemed calm and composed. Very elven! Oh, what was she thinking. She was an elf, so of course she was acting very elven!

Oh…dear me, I’m not making much sense even to myself again.

She tilted her eyes up to look the drow full on, believing it an appropriate time to do so, and gave a little dip of the head in affirmation.

“Y-yes! Of course, Lady Charjra. If we are all ready now, there is no reason we can’t go together…” she allowed her eyes to dart uncertainly toward the footman nearby. “Right, Adon?”

Adon Garitt, meanwhile, was occupying himself with trying to analyze his elite as best as possible. But of course, Valynor was an elf…so that was like to trying to interrogate a brick wall. Too perfectly impassive! Gah. Elves were too cool.



“A pleasure to meet you as well, Adon, and please, just Valynor will do.”

He bowed with one arm across his breast, “As you wish, Valynor. I am honored.”

At least he kept his training well in hand, then again with the demonic way it had been drilled into him, there was no way it wouldn’t. The brief image of Sebastian’s frowning face nearly made him shudder.

Nope! Not going to think about those hellish days of footman boot camp again! He had vowed never to think of that dark time once he had survived them and he meant to keep it!

At the question from Alice nearby and having overheard her talk with Charjra due to their proximity, he was able to give a calm nod and a little smile.

“Right. That should be just fine.”

It would seem Valynor had some questions of his own, garnering his attention again.

“I presume it is not against the rules if we all walk over together, correct? Also, would it be at all possible to make a small stop at an Arcane Library? I’m afraid I’m far too accustomed to falling asleep while reading Magical Tomes and will not catch a wink of sleep unless I have some occult parchment in my hands.”

Huh. So this guy retained some bits of his memories already? Impressive. No wonder they were elites. Adon allowed his own memory to flash again to past days at the White Tower, some mage apprentices slumped asleep in chairs with such tomes slipping from their grasps and onto the floor. Some thick enough to thud hard enough that it jolted them back awake. And there he was, carefully cleaning up around them, trying not to get in the way or laugh.

Heh. Yeah, he knew exactly what the guy was talking about. Guess he came from a magical place too, even if it was within the Plane of Dreams. Not that he understood all the complexities of what that meant himself.

“After all, part of your task is to make us feel comfortable and welcomed is it not?”

Way to rub it in, buddy.

“You’re quite right, sir. To your first question, it is not against the rules at all, like Alice said. We sent servant escorts for each person in the event everyone was prepared to head for their quarters at differing times.”

“A-And it affects a more personal touch. L-like you said, Lord Valynor! Comfortable and welcomed,” Alice chimed in softly.

Adon nodded though he did his best to ignore the slight twitch in his eyebrow. Was that girl ever not going to be timid? She had been like that ever since he had met her a year ago. Sheesh! Still…she had impeccable service skills, there was no denying that. If he had a coin for every time she bested him on the service tests, he'd be rich...Ugh. Best not to remember that either.

“Will these rooms have sleep clothing available, and a change of clothes, and most importantly, an area to bathe?”

Alice allowed herself to smile and nod a little more eagerly this time. “Yes, Lady Charjra. We of course have provided some extra clothing for you a-and a small pouch of currency to ease your entrance into the city. U-Until your first pay, that is!”

Miss Berathee’s smile widened slightly, almost as if she was taking personal pride in how everything was set up. Adon almost began to question whether she had been the freaking architect on the Elite’s Estate or something.

“You see, at the Elite Dreamers Estate, everyone’s quarters come with a fully furnished bedroom, living space, kitchen, and spacious bathroom, so you do not have to worry about a thing! I promise that you will love it! …” she seemed to suddenly remember herself, a blush turning her face into that of a tomato, “I-I mean, I think you will. I don’t mean to presume! I-If you do not, we allow future requests and can change the interior design as soon as possible!”

Adon cleared his throat a little and addressed Valynor again as well, though he knew Charjra was listening too, “As for the library…” He tucked a hand under his chin in thought.

“Hm. The Omniversal Library should be closed for the night by now. I don’t think the Umbra Axium is open to you guys yet, they’re pretty picky about who gets let in. The Midnight Arcanum will probably be open though!”

Alice shared a glance toward Valynor. “That …That will be a bit out of our way though and we were told explicitly to make sure you got to your quarters so you could rest. I-I don’t want to tax you.”

Or get in trouble herself likely.

Adon turned on his heel calmly, “Well, I’m ready if they are. We can all go together. I suppose if nothing else, you can tell me what kind of tomes you’d like and we can get them delivered to you tonight.”

“T-That’s true,” brightened Alice.

The maid and footman waited to see how the two elven elites reacted to all they said, ready to lead the way the moment they were ready to leave.

Tag: Charjra & Valynor @Ktala @greyjedi125

 

IC: Jo'Sua Dhatra
Journey to the Chambers of Dreams

Jo'Sua did not have much to comment on what came soon thereafter. It was not much for him to really pay attention to now that he had had his answers and the others theirs. The guides had come, by whatever name you wished to call them, and a red head had approached him.



“Hello, I am Oren Erolias. As you heard, I’m here to escort you to your quarters tonight. Are you ready?”

"Yes." he simply replied. His hand waved forward for the man to guide him to his quarters. Lead and folow, follow and lead. He had nothing to add, he would dutifully follow this oddity of another individual wherever they wanted to take him.

And so he did. Following out and down, and past were he had been before. The rejoining of Jupiter that some had bemoaned the absence of. With no words but a mere dip of the helm toward this being he continued in silence and steady gate to follow his guide.

Two white guards stood opposite, “Have a nice night, everyone,” one of them stated jovially through their helmet before turning to whisper to their companion. It would seem they were in a good mood.

The maids and footmen led the group to a point, then would look at the large four-story building before them.

“This is Elite Quarters, specially built just for all of you. Please, continue to follow us inside and to your individual rooms,” Zel (the one leading Jupiter) stated to the full group.

Soon enough, they were through the first door and into the grandiose foyer that was the first step into their new home.



Up the stairs they went and would gradually find themselves being split off from each other to their own rooms on differing floors and wings. None would be on the first floor, that being reserved for other rooms apparently. Where each found themselves was something of minor note.

2nd Floor

On the North Side ~ Grimble, Amaya, & Aryan

On the South Side ~ Valynor, Ayira, Goro, & Dusty

3rd Floor

On the North Side ~ Arthur, Patriarch, & Wuwu

On the South Side ~ Jo’Sua & Charjra

The rest of the party continued upward to the final floor. And finally, once inside his room he found an interesting sight…



Their escort would remain with them for just a few moments longer, seeing if they needed anything else and calmly stating that whenever their memories return, all they need do is summon one of them or find HAL and state that they’d like to change their bedroom to any specification they wanted and it would be done.

"If this is to be my room for a prolonged period of time, changes shall be needed. I may not have my memories, but this is not comfort." Dhatra stated as he took in the room. "When I summon one of you can I request specific individuals or merely whomever is available?"

Already from taking in the room he to drag the foot thing to the opposite corner from the bed before laying down on it to sleep. To sleep under that odd thing in the ceiling was offputtingly discomforting to his very soul, memories or no. Just no.

Tag: Everyone, @Darth_Elu

 

Charjra Myt'tar
Heading for their rooms

As Charjra stood with Vaylor, their handlers, for lack of better words came over and introduced themselves. Charjra's was a female, but with cat ears and tails. She introduced herself as Alice Berathee. The girl seemed a bit nervous. Charjra gave the girl a small smile as she nodded. They spoke of all walking over together to the building they would be staying. What caught Cahrjra's interest was the fact that they had mentioned that she should go for the skill of primal....and lo and behold, somone with animalistic features ended up being assigned to her. That was too much to be a simple coincidence.

As she mulled that thought over, she listened as Vaylor spoke to his handler, who introduced himself as Adon.

“I presume it is not against the rules if we all walk over together, correct? Also, would it be at all possible to make a small stop at an Arcane Library? I’m afraid I’m far too accustomed to falling asleep while reading Magical Tomes and will not catch a wink of sleep unless I have some occult parchment in my hands.”

Charjra's face did not change, but she found herself highly amused. She wondered how he might work in a way to find the library. Indeed, he would be one to watch most closely.

Adon response was swift, however. “You’re quite right, sir. To your first question, it is not against the rules at all, like Alice said. We sent servant escorts for each person in the event everyone was prepared to head for their quarters at differing times.”

“A-And it affects a more personal touch. L-like you said, Lord Valynor! Comfortable and welcomed,” Alice chimed in softly.

Now Charjra had another chance to be amused. Was Adon annoyed with Alice? Yes, the poor girl seemed to be rather nervous. But why? But that seemed to melt away when Charjra asked about a bath.

Alice allowed herself to smile and nod a little more eagerly this time. “Yes, Lady Charjra. We of course have provided some extra clothing for you a-and a small pouch of currency to ease your entrance into the city. U-Until your first pay, that is!”

Pay? They would receive pay for this? Interesting tidbit of information there. Alice continued.

“You see, at the Elite Dreamers Estate, everyone’s quarters come with a fully furnished bedroom, living space, kitchen, and spacious bathroom, so you do not have to worry about a thing! I promise that you will love it! …” she seemed to suddenly remember herself, a blush turning her face into that of a tomato, “I-I mean, I think you will. I don’t mean to presume! I-If you do not, we allow future requests and can change the interior design as soon as possible!”

Charjra gave the girl a wide smile then. She turned as Adon cleared his throat.
, “As for the library…” He tucked a hand under his chin in thought.

“Hm. The Omniversal Library should be closed for the night by now. I don’t think the Umbra Axium is open to you guys yet, they’re pretty picky about who gets let in. The Midnight Arcanum will probably be open though!”

She could hear the gears turning. Oh, so many tomes and libraries. It sounded wonderful. But Alice suggested it might be too far. And that they needed to rest. True, Charja was feeling a bit tired.

Adon turned on his heel calmly, “Well, I’m ready if they are. We can all go together. I suppose if nothing else, you can tell me what kind of tomes you’d like and we can get them delivered to you tonight.”

“T-That’s true,” brightened Alice.

Charjra gave another small yawn, as she remembered the candle she had tucked away. She looked up at Valynor. "I think...I would like to see these rooms. As they have given us an entire 'estate', called the Elite Dreamers...sounds like it might be quite interesting. And if they can deliver the tomes, even better."

In truth, since Charjra was not sure when or what might happen within the next few hours, and the antics from dinner had made her want to get away from the others. But now, she simply wished to meditate. And see what the late hour might bring.


TAG: @greyjedi125, @Darth_Elu

 

IC as Ayira

Ayira's escort confirmed the room was indeed hers, though with a flicker of amusement that she easily caught and felt slightly annoyed at. There was nothing wrong with liking the room she was given, she thought with a small hair flip over her shoulder as she wandered around, peeking in to see a large and lovely bathroom with a deep bathtub that called her name, especially after how tired and sore her muscles were after the day's events. She also took note of the kitchen and what looked like a lounge room with comfortable looking sofas. She couldn't even guess how much this whole quarter cost, most certainly nothing she could afford.

They were called elites and being shown the courtesies royalty would expect. Ayira almost wondered if they were being bought in exchange for their help in their war, though she kept her musing to herself as she looked over the room at the little details they decorated it with. Albert worked for the people at Shadow's Reach, she was sure whatever she said or did would be told to HAL and the others.

“You wouldn’t think we’d allow you to march around and sleep in that all the time, do you? No. Milady, right in here are some spare clothes until you can purchase your own in the city. The little pouch atop the nightstand contains some adequate currency used in Shadow’s Reach, until you get your first official pay.”

And they were going to be paid for their services? She thought and watched Albert cross the room to a beautiful dresser, pulling the top drawer open. “We have some nightgowns and other choices here in this drawer. Furthermore, on that matter...Do you require any assistance in taking off that armor or would you like to handle that yourself?”

Ayira stepped up to the dresser and searched through the nightwear options, before landing on a soft, silky nightgown and holding it up to look at it. She nodded her approval and laid it out on the bed, turning her attention to Albert. She folded her arms and looked down at her armor, before letting out a sigh. "Yes, I guess I will help with the back." She replied to his offer for help and turned around, beginning to unbuckle the gauntlets and the front pieces she could easily do on her own while he helped. She was eager to be alone with her thoughts and sleep.

Tag: @Darth_Elu

 

IC: Amaya Trakand

There was no fight, that was good, though she kinda wanted to try her skills on those two. Maybe another time? Or maybe not, after all they were her allies. Amaya was sure that their “masters” would not have been happy with her beating their cannon fodder before any actual battle.

That would be very… embarrassing.

But not for her.

Amaya smirked as she walked behind the woman who was sent to guide her to her room. She thought about Shredder and the red orb in the rectangle, who were they? Why did she feel a menace from them?

This place was giving her headache. More questions than actual answers. They liked to keep things a secret and cryptic. Probably to cover the fact that they were all a bunch of blowhards… like the guys in Altdorf…

Karl Franz excluded.

Altdorf? Karl Franz? Those names came to mind, but their significance eluded her. “When is the breakfast being served?” that was all came to mind to ask the woman.

TAG: @Darth_Elu

 

IC: Valynor Syndoriel
En Route

Valynor brought a hand to his chin as he considered what he was learning in conversation.

There were three locations for Arcane learning. How fascinating!! ‘The Omniversal Library’ stood out for it was mentioned first. That usually meant the place was chief in its class. Of course, ‘Umbra Axiom’ and ‘Midnight Arcanum’ sounded just as compelling in their own right.

Still, the red haired elf did not wish to cause trouble for their escorts, who were deferentially cordial.

“Alice, I do encourage you to call me by name, Valynor. I am yet to attain the status of Lord. It’s quite alright to do so.” The elf said, giving the polite felinoid a playful wink to ease any discomfort she might feel at the allowance of said familiarity.

Indeed, Valynor was not even a supplicant at this stage, dreaming of finding the White Tower , as he had no magics to speak of…at the moment. He planned to coax all his arcane memories once they returned, to maximum effect.

Just the same, Valynor was painfully aware of the trappings of an over-inflated ego, even if he could not recall the specific reasons for it.

“Well, let see….” he intoned playfully, turning to Adon.

“How bout…hmmm, how do I phrase this: If there is a copy of ‘The idiot’s guide to Omnivesal Magic’, or a tome similar in theme, I’d like one for myself and the other for Lady Charjra. I believe they would make for good bed time reading.”

Satisfied with his choice, Valynor offered a solid nod and a soft smile. This was a good way to end their very first evening in Shadow’s Reach.

“Shall we?” He said, gesturing with a hand in order to begin their trek.


*******

As the small group walked, Valynor asked about the many buildings they saw, and proudly resisted the urge to go to them and investigate them in depth. Especially the Arcane Library. That took the greatest exercise of self control. The moment he thought he would fail to endure and his resistance would crumble, the building was out of sight and he let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding.

*Phew*

Now and again, Valynor would stop and gaze at the magical sky, then close his eyes and bask in its presence. The action almost seemed votive and ritualistic, or perhaps it was merely the elf attempting to connect once again to his lost magical connection. In his silence, he offered no real explanation.

It wasn’t long after that the group reached the Elite Estate. Valynor let out a long whistle, for he was truly impressed.

“I’m not sure what I was expecting, but I certainly was not expecting this?” he admitted openly. Despite being impressed, it was hard to tell wether this pleased him; one could only infer that it did.

“These are impressive accommodations, thank you.”

The red haired elf took his time, studying almost every detail of the architecture and interior design, almost as if waiting for memories to be triggered by their proximity.

“Did you say my room was on the second floor?”

Valynor inquired of Adon, despite already knowing the answer. Before moving off, he looked at Lady Charjra as he continued to address his assigned escort.

“Since Lady Charjra is on a different floor, will I be able to communicate with her? Are there lesser seeing orbs for us to use?”

Valynor realized his was perhaps a fair question, but the hour was late and perhaps it would be wisest to simply bid the Lady Drow good-night. In truth, he had just begun to enjoy her company and was a mite unwilling to part just yet.


Tag: @Ktala, @Darth_Elu

 

Oren Erolias IC:
~Jo’Sua’s Quarters, Elite Dreamers Estate~



His simple question was given a simple answer and Oren merely nodded, turning as Jo’Sua motioned for him to begin leading.

Leading out of the room that had been accommodated for the feast, down the hall, past the Evaluation Chamber, along the streets, and soon arriving at the outside of the Elite Dreamers Estate while rejoining with Jupiter and Zel at the same time.

Throughout the journey, Oren did not look at the wraith, instead focusing on his duties and feeling out that the wraith wanted to simply get to their destination and do what was needed. The air around him denoted that he was not interested in small talk at this time, indeed, Oren only glanced at him once as they past the stormtroopers as if to verify that. It was.

Past the front doors, up the stairs, onto the third floor, and to the south side where his room was; they went. He opened the door with a small bow and quietly stating:

“This is your room, Mr. Dhatra. Let me know if you need anything else and when your memories return, just call for one of us or HAL if you want to change things around. We can change things to any specification you want.”

“If this is to be my room for a prolonged period of time, changes shall be needed. I may not have my memories, but this is not comfort.”

Oren had a slight look of surprise, but it went away as quickly as it appeared, and inclined his head in understanding.

“When I summon one of you, can I request specific individuals or merely whoever is available?”

“You may request specific individuals if you wish, though another will be sent with an apology if the one requested is busy. We have been tasked with serving you elites as well as The Council personally, you see.”

Noticing Jo’Sua begin to move the bench at the foot of the bed, Oren silently moved to help take the other side and move it with him. Upon completion of this, he looked at him.

“I shall make sure anything you wish changed, will be so. I can always clean and improve your armor or clothing overnight as well, if you wish. Let me know what you’d like.”

Tag: Jo’Sua @Mitth_Fisto

*****
Albert Baenbowie IC:
~Ayira’s Quarters, Elite Dreamers Estate~

Albert quietly waited as Ayira went through the nightgowns and selected a soft, silky one that complimented her well. It was a good choice, the lady had a nice eye. Granted, there wasn’t much offered in the room that was ‘bad,’ but even so.

She seemed to momentarily debate on whether or not to accept his help with the armor, but sighing and resigning herself to it.

“Yes, I guess I will need help with the back.”

“Of course, milady. Let me assist you then.”

Albert was smooth action at this point, having been instructed very well and very thoroughly in the past. But it had been well worth it and he demonstrated that again here. He seemed to glide across the floor to where Ayira stood and maneuvered to her back, quietly and deftly undoing her armor from the back. She seemed to have the upper half well covered, so he decided to simply help loosen straps and make it easier for her, his fingers moving swiftly.

Soon he knelt down and assisted her with the armored boots and the lower greaves, setting them all off to the side before backing away and inclining his head to her once more.

“If you wish, I can have your armor tended to and even improved a little overnight, if you’d like. Otherwise, is there anything else you require before I take my leave?”

Tag: Ayira @spacelady

*****
Lily Watkins IC:
~Moving toward the Place of Promised Rest~



Amaya was initially quiet and straightforward as she silently showed herself ready to move on. Lily curtseyed and turned, leading the way just as quietly. Giving the elite some time to think to herself, since clearly much had been hoping for them. This was their very first day after all. She could scarce think of how that must all feel, especially coming straight into Shadow’s Reach like this!

As they were reaching the door, connecting the hall to the outside by the Evaluation Chamber, Amaya finally spoke and Lily turned her head to look at her.

“When is the breakfast being served?”

“As this is your first night here with Genesis Gate, you have no duties to immediately assigned to get to. As such you may sleep in as little or late as you wish. Breakfast shall be delivered whenever you come fetch one of us and state you are ready on the first floor of the estate we are heading for. Of course, you can also choose to go into the city and buy food yourself, if you so wish, Lady Trakand. You will be supplied with a choice amount of currency used here until you receive your first pay.”

She nodded professionally and looked ahead of them, continuing to lead the woman as she waited to see how her elite would respond to this information.

Tag: Amaya @TheAdmiral

*****
Alice Berathee & Adon Garitt IC:
~En Route~

With a charming smile and playful wink, Valynor did his best to accommodate the catgirl’s shy and timid nature after some rumination regarding the information he just learned. Alice blushed slightly and smiled, her eyes briefly looking away.

“Alice, I do encourage you to call me by name, Valynor. I am yet to attain the status of Lord. It’s quite alright to do so.”

“O-Of course, my L— I mean, Valynor. I shall remember this!”

Adon raised his eyebrow, amused, before looking at the fiery haired elf turn back to him. He gave him his full attention.

“How bout…hmmm, how do I phrase this: If there is a copy of ‘The idiot’s guide to Omniversal Magic’, or a tome similar in theme, I’d like one for myself and the other for Lady Charjra. I believe they would make for good bed time reading.”

Adon allowed himself a small laugh at the wording, Alice also joining in.

“Ha…right, I’ll do that, Valynor. We will make some inquiries as soon as we are done getting you two situated and get those delivered.”

Charjra gave a little yawn there, a small reminder to get moving, and looked to her fellow elite.

“I think…I would like to see these rooms. As they have given us an entire ‘estate’, called the Elite Dreamers…sounds like it might be quite interesting. And if they can deliver the tomes, even better.”

Alice curtseyed, which was immediately followed by Adon bowing.

“Right this way, Lady Charjra,” the girl stated softly.

“Shall we?”

“We shall,” quipped Adon.

And then they were off at last.

*******
As they moved, Valynor asked many questions, with maid and footman both amazed at the man’s keen eye and ever inquisitorial nature. But of course, he was an elf. They really should be used to that by now. The Omniversal Library was normally far out of view for someone in their current area.

“Over to the left, that is the back of a number of adjoining buildings there, as you see, for a few levels. On the main level, on the far right edge is the Shadow’s Reach Auction House, if my direction is right.”

Alice nodded at Adon’s answer, indicating he was right. “There is a restaraunt next to it, in the center of that building on the main level, The Watchful Eye...named after HAL. Not sure how he feels about that…” she trailed off wonderingly, with a touch of apprehension.

“I think I heard he was ‘flattered’ by it,” Adon remarked with a shrug, “On the other side of it on the main floor is a general Rest Area for the public.”

They continued with Valynor pointing out some more, the closer they got. Adon chuckled while Alice took the initiative this time.

“A lot of the more ‘exciting’ places are in the Central Quarter or ‘Great Hall’ of Shadow’s Reach. We are starting to get into the Common Quarter of the city though, where the Estate is located, so many of the buildings you happen to be pointing at now are homes of the people who live here. S-Sorry. Straight ahead of us at the cross street though is a bakery. I don’t know the name.”

“Shelby’s Bakery,” Adon supplied knowledgeably. From experience? Hard to tell.

From there the two elites lapsed into silence for awhile, Valynor closing his eyes as he walked as if taking in everything within his mind. Not long later, they were finally standing within the Elite Dreamers Estate, within the Grand Foyer on the first floor.

The red-haired elf let out a whistle of appreciation, causing a smile from both of the servants and a knowing nod from the purple-haired footman in particular. Alice was beaming.

“I’m not sure what I was expecting, but I certainly was not expecting this? These are impressive accommodations, thank you.”

“You are quite welcome!” replied Alice happily.

“Did you say my room was on the second floor?”

“Yes, Valynor. And Lady Charjra is on the third.”

With a look between the elves, Valynor asked another question. He was certainly full of them! But then, that was one of the exact reasons they were there.

“Since Lady Charjra is on a different floor, will I be able to communicate with her? Are there lesser seeing orbs for us to use?”

“Not orbs exactly,” Adon smiled, “but there is some technology that allows you to call between floors if you have the correct number. Alice, do you —“

“I do.”

“Alright then. I know yours, Valynor. When we get you both to your rooms, we can give those numbers and show you how it works. If you so desire.”

Tag: Charjra & Valynor @Ktala @greyjedi125

 

IC as Ayira

With Albert's help, Ayira was out of her armor. She looked down at the black tunic and leggings underneath. Simple looking, but they didn't resist movement under her steel armor. She nodded her thanks to the blond man as he stepped, politely, away from her once more, offering to have her discarded armor cleaned and fixed up overnight.

"Yes, I would appreciate that. I'll need it until I can purchase something of better quality." She replied in a matter-of-fact tone and went to dismiss him, until she noticed one minor detail. She came to a stop and eyed the room, a mix of curiosity and utter confusion, though she tried to mask the latter. "Um... Albert. Before you go, I do have... one question." It seemed like such a silly thing to ask, she thought and ran a hand through her hair. "You see, as I'm not from Shadow's Reach... I, um... how do you dim the lights?"

After being shown the light switches, Ayira moved over to one to test it out, surprised at the ease of lighting a whole room with just a flick of her finger. She still didn't have her memories back yet, but she felt like electricity didn't exist where she was from. Before she marveled too much, the young woman remembered Albert, who was still awaiting her dismissal. She collected herself once more, glancing coolly and uncaringly in his direction to recover her image.

"You may leave." Ayira spoke with an even and final tone, watching him depart and close the door softly behind him. She waited a few moments to make sure he was gone before she looked back at the light switch and flipped it on and off a few more times, a small smile on her face.

Finally tearing herself away, she headed into the kitchen, testing the light switch in that room as well. She was happy to report it worked just as well. The simplicity behind it was genius! She was about to turn and leave when a quiet noise came from the large metal container further in the kitchen. She flipped the light on and carefully inched closer, inspecting what the sound was. She hesitantly took the handle and pulled it open, jumping slightly at the bright light inside and the cold air rolling out. Some food was being stored in there. Some of which she recognized as fruits and vegetables, and even eggs, and there were a few others she had no idea what they were. She sniffed a few before putting it back and moving to close the door, when just at the last moment, the light inside turned off. Blinking, Ayira pulled the door open again, finding to her surprise, the light turned on again.

Looking around herself, Ayira didn't see any light switches around her and there was no one else in the room making it turn off and on. She slowly closed the door, watching it carefully and gasped quietly to herself when the inside went dark. What was making this happen?! She opened and shut it several more times, her face inching closer and closer to inspect it further, until she finally noticed there was a button within. She tested it out once more and was satisfied to have found the cause of this mysterious light inside the cold box.

Closing the door a final time, Ayira rubbed the back of her neck, sheepishly. She had a lot to learn. Clearly! There were so many new things to see and explore. She was certain that a good number of those in the large group that she joined with had been familiar to these comforts of having lights at the simple touch and cold food storage with lights inside, but this was all strange and awe-inspiring to her.

Wandering out of the kitchen, she made her way back to the bedroom and felt the beckoning of sleep call to her, but she would have to ignore it for a little bit longer. The female warrior stepped up to the end table by her bed and picked up a featherless quill. After taking a few moments to look for ink, she found that this quill already had ink inside. She briefly wondered at all the comforts these people had in amazement before writing out a single word on the slip of paper she had received.

Wraith.

Ayira found her way back to the main door and slipped the folded piece of paper underneath for whoever to collect. She stared at the door for a long moment, folding her arms and releasing a sigh. This was her home now and this was her life now. It would be a hard adjustment, especially getting used to the sensations and heightened senses, but she would do her best and she was determined to make something of this new life. Giving a final nod at the door, she moved away and headed for the bathroom to take a bath to clean herself and settle herself down for sleep that night. After a long soak in the hot, bubbly water, she stepped out and dried herself off with the softest towel she could imagine. She carefully dressed into the silky nightgown and crawled into her inviting bed, staring up at the ceiling with a faint smile on her lips. It most definitely wouldn't be hard adjusting to this bed. The luxurious sheets and comfortable mattress made her quickly forget about the strenuous evaluations earlier on in the day, as well as any misgivings of the people and things. She quickly decided she would worry about all of that in the morning, for now she allowed herself to surrender to the soothing embrace of sleep in a room fit for royalty.

Tag: @Darth_Elu

 

IC: Jo'Sua Dhatra
~Jo’Sua’s Quarters, Elite Dreamers Estate~

His rebuke for the decor was met with shock, interesting. His question was met with a direct answer.

“You may request specific individuals if you wish, though another will be sent with an apology if the one requested is busy. We have been tasked with serving you elites as well as The Council personally, you see.”

Noticing Jo’Sua begin to move the bench at the foot of the bed, Oren silently moved to help take the other side and move it with him. Upon completion of this, he looked at him.

“I shall make sure anything you wish changed, will be so. I can always clean and improve your armor or clothing overnight as well, if you wish. Let me know what you’d like.”

Nodding at this new information Jo'Sua began stripping off his armor and revealing the gaunt green form beneath, a form that was increasingly seeming to be translucent as time went on. It wasn't, but it was if that made any true sense. Piling his armor he had removed everything but his robe and his helm, these he left in place. "You may take these and improve or replace as your smiths and techno wizards see best. Include an eye at stealth if able." Pausing he thought of Jam and the notes on the list as well as the Baron's words concerning his 'Dream Born Armor' being weaker. "An eye towards damage prevention and something that will work with one of my kind." Looking at the pile of armor from his body over except helm and robe he hissed at where he was and stopped as he had reached his helm that his robe was hooked to somehow. To remove it felt so very wrong that he stopped looking at the man boy before him. "I have a notion if I remove more that you would die, I do not know why." Relaxing his arms down he took a seat. He waved his hand over the end he had decided was to be the head of the footstool where he would rest. His matter of fact statement was just that, and he was longing for sleep that he might know the answers to the things he seemed to not be surprised by and the notions that formed his mind without thinkable reasons. "If possible tomorrow I would not be adverse to replacing my robes and replacing my helm if one better can be provided or improving them if they could be made just as good, but I shall wish to go through such things in minutiae before I wear them or commit to alterations at that time."

Laying down he laid on his back in repose, hands clasped over his heart. "Please write your name and Hanayo's by the method of contacting you inside this suit if there is one, if not then by the door. Then you may leave me to my slumber. To my Lies of Life."

Tag: @Darth_Elu