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I'm writing this for every game I'm in: A few days ago, a very close relative was diagnosed with the initial stages of a very serious disease, and my family and I are trying to cope with what it's going to happen. It's been a AWFUL few days, and I'm sorry I didn't post anything but saying I was crushed would be an understatement. I'll try to sort through the posts since I was gone later today and post something in the gameplay thread tonight. Thank you all for your patience with me.
Imperia sighs in relief as the tense situation is finally defused, and for the first time since the disorders started she lets go of Celia's shoulders and pats her affectionately on her head. Taking her sister by hand, she makes her way to Field Marshall Kroft and beaming her a bright smile thanks her profusely - "My lady, it's a pleasure to see you again, and you have our sincerest thanks for your timely intervention. Without your help, things would've surely taken a turn for the worst..."
Turning toward the old healer, Imperia lower herself in a gracious courtsey before addressing him - "Please let me express my gratitude to you as well, Master Tuttle. I am Imperia Videlia Aspexia Winthrune, delighted to make your acquaintance. Your gift of healing was as providential as it was welcome." When she's reasonably sure she can talk to the others without being overheard, Imperia warns her friends about their new 'acquaintance' - "That Hellknight was the Mistress of Blades Maidrayne Vox, the leader of the Order of the Nail's martial division. 'Boneclaw' is the nickname of Lictor Severs DiVri, the commander of the Order. Marshall Kroft was right to warn us, it'd be best to be very careful should we ever cross paths again..."
After saying her farewells, Imperia follows Korriban back to the Rosa, eager to see her little sister again and bring her home. Her joy is somewhat marred with worry when Lidda voices her concerns, and the sight of the strange ivory figurine Celia seems to be clutching in her little hands, something the young wizard doesn't at all recognize, only adds to her growing concerns. 'What happened... What happened to her must've touched her much more than I realized... She'll need time to recover... And my help... Little Celia... I'll always be there for you...' After giving her thanks for watching her sister and wishing everyone a pleasant night, Imperia heads back to her apartment with Celia to spend the night, decided to swing by the Acadamae first thing in the morning and ask her old mentor Professor Quinsworth for his help and advice. Her hopes are shattered the following morning, when the gates of the Acadamae reveal themselves to be shut tight till further notice due to the recent disorders. "This is unfortunate... And quite irritating!" - Imperia grumbles, her fine lineaments contracted in a fairly contemptuous expression - "I would understand closing down the premises to outsiders and general visitors, but I'm a graduate student! I've lived on the Grounds for years! Disgraceful... Truly disgraceful!" Once she's calmed done a bit, Imperia lets out a long sigh and pats her little sister affectionately - "I'm sorry Celia, I really wanted you to meet Professor Quinsworth and take your Admission Exam today... You would've have been safe here, far away from the... Unpleasantness that's engulfing the city." Imperia kneels down to look Celia in the eye - "We'll try again tomorrow... But in the meantime, I'll take care of you. Now remember, the city is dangerous! You'll have to always stay close to me, alright? I could never forgive myself if something happened to you..." - she gives a big hug to her little sister, and when she breaks the embrace she has to clear her eyes a few times before she's ready to move on. "Well, we might as well make our way to Lancet Street, our new friends are probably already there and waiting for us!" Smiling down to her sister and taking her by hand, Imperia makes her way to the meeting. --- Imperia is caught off-guard when the disorders start, but as soon as she realizes the gravity of the situation she clutches Celia's shoulders firmly and keeps her as close as possible while she prepares for trouble. In swift motions she takes her trusty crossbow from her shoulders, loads it, and hides its bulk under her ample cloak, ready to fire but trying not to attract attention. At the same time she gives a mental command to her familiar, and but a moment later the large scorpion climbs out from her robe and makes his way to Celia's shoulders, hiding under her hair. "Rutilus'll keep an eye out for trouble. Stay close Celia... And don't worry! Everything is going to be fine..."
"People of Korvosa, please listen to reason! There are children here, innocents! Stop this madness before someone gets hurt!"
Wanted to post something now but I have to run! Lil sister needs picking up at the Station. I'll post something as soon as I get back! ^_^
When Imperia realizes the group's intention of pulling the wagon by hand, the young wizard's delicate eyebrows raise as high as they can possibly go. "Surely you don't expect me to, to... Physically pull that wagon... By hand!" - she looks upon the wagon while a shocked, and more than a little disgusted, expression slowly creeps up on her face - "Why, we... We could send for the Citadel, and have them send help to retrieve the prisoners, or search the buildings nearby for a suitable beast of burden, o-or pay a few laborers, or..." Eventually, when it's clear no other alternative is feasible, with extreme reluctance Imperia takes her place alongside the others and lends her meager strength to help pull the wagon back to the Citadel. --- When the group finally reaches the citadel and meets with Field Marshall Kroft, Imperia slips away for a few long moments, busy catching her breath, massaging her sore hands, and using her talents to clean her clothes from dust and sweat and making herself presentable again.
After regaining her composure, the young woman comes back to the others, just in time to thank the Marshall for the reward, and to bid her farewell. As she hears Gadriel's intention, Imperia kneels next to her and smiles candidly at the little witch - "There is no need for that, little one! I have a little place not too far from here, in the University Ward near the Acadamae. It may not be much, but it's clean and safe! It'd be my pleasure to have you stay there for a while... At least until you find yourself a proper home?" When Korriban nervously suggests the two of them could spend some time alone in the future, Imperia turns and looks at the young rogue for a long moment, her vibrant amethyst eyes gazing directly into his strong green ones. Ever so slowly, her lips part and a radiant smile appears on her face - "Unfortunately, with the city in it's current predicament, it may be a while before 'just walking around town' will be safe, or even at all feasible, wouldn't you agree?" - a crystalline laugh escapes her lips, but after a moment her smile returns, her big eyes still looking straight at Korriban's own - "That said... When the time is right... I'd love to, Korriban." "... Until then, we should focus on the tasks at hand!" - Imperia turns around an assumes a thoughtful expression - "I need to take my sister to the Acadamae as soon as possible. There she'll be safe from all this madness... Uhmm, I'll get her from the Rose and take her home with me, then first thing tomorrow I'll ask for Professor Quinsworth and bring Celia along... Then the admission... Then..." - she trails off mumbling to herself, obviously in deep thought.
Ready to go on! :D (Also, sorry again for my sporadic presence. (>.<)' )
Trying to stay out of her companions' little quarrel, and dearly hoping it won't degenerate in anything regrettable, Imperia turns her attention toward Korriban. "I'm truly sorry Korriban" - Imperia shakes her head sadly - "The Acadamae indeed possesses a vast collection of tomes of knowledge and power, but they are locked away and jealously protected... Only the members of the faculty, and seldom the students, are allowed to consult them, and even then there are scores of rules and procedures to follow just to ask for a permit..." The young wizard looks apologetically at Korriban for a moment, before assuming a thoughtfully expression - "Uhm... There could be some other form of assistance I might be able to offer, though. Well, not me personally, but an acquaintance of mine. A... Friend, shall we say?" - she chuckles lightly, as if there was some kind of hidden meaning to her words only she could understand - "One of my former teachers, Professor Quinsworth, may have access to some tome, or even a few spells, that may help you in your endeavor. I'll be happy to talk to him about this matter, if you would let me?"
Hearing Raina, Imperia, and Vancaskerkin, Korriban nods. "All right. We won't take anything. I apologize. Just a natural instinct from living in Bridgefront. 'Take anything you need to survive.' He nods at Vancaskerkin. 'Sure, go on ahead. I'll come with you. Not that I don't trust you. But, you know..." Imperia smiles broadly at Korriban's words, clearly relieved the dashing rogue decided to set aside his instincts and listen to Raina's words and her own - "There is no need for an apology Korriban, I'm just glad you decided to follow our advice. You have my thanks." When Gadriel offers her shoulder to Raina, Imperia comes to their side as well to give her help to the wounded woman - "Please, let me lend you my shoulder as well. Don't strain yourself... Uh, we should really have someone look at your wounds Raina..." - she states, looking over her friend with clear concern in her eyes. 'Gadriel looks like such a sweet child... Poor thing must've suffered so much... I'm so glad she's starting to open up a bit!'
Imperia's raises an eyebrow at Malder's crass tirade, her stern, and more than a little disgusted, expression making abundantly clear what she thinks of the man's actions. When the former soldier is finished, she simply scoffs and averts her gaze, as if the whole deplorable episode was beneath her notice. "Most certainly, Raina! We are here on behalf of the City Watch, not to act like common thieves" - Imperia smiles candidly at strong woman - "Now that we apprehended the culprits, we should head back to the Marshall."
YES! I have internet again! Just when I thought I was starting to get a grip on my life again... the area where I live was hit by a minor flood. Fortunately damage was very minimal (thank god!), but a small landslide did break a major gas pipe, and severely F@!*ed up phone and internet services. As it turns out, they were working on the line when the slide it, and they had to wait for the emergency to pass AND for the gas pipe to be fixed first before restoring everything else. Add to that that my provider took its sweet sweet time to restore my service even after basically every other provider was done with it, and here I am today, tired, frustrated, quite a bit pissed (since unfortunately due to this I actually missed the deadline to send a curriculum for a nice job position I believe I'd have had an actual shot at getting... -.-'), but finally back on track! ^_^ I need to run right now, I have a job interview, but as soon as I get back I'll try to catch up with the game and post something! With all my apologies (but it wasn't my fault, I swear! :o), it's good to be back! :D
Korriban smiles and carefully pulls out the thunderstone. He gives it a few simple tosses, judging the weight of it. He turns to Imperia, a playful smirk on his face. "Well, my lady, shall we show them who they're dealing with? I throw, you summon one of your friends in the confusion?" The young wizard nods - "Yes of course. One moment please if you will..." Imperia takes the crossbow from her shoulder, loads it, then grips it firmly in her right hand, ready to fire. A moment later, she raises her left hand, and for a fleeting moment tiny sparks of light seem to dance on her fingertips. Giving Korriban a tentative smile, she whispers - "I'm ready. As soon as the door is opened, I'll perform my incantation."
Once they're in the streets, Imperia wraps herself in her ample cloak and puts on the hood, trying to be as inconspicuous as possible. For a moment, the hood seems to move about in a peculiar fashion, then Rutilus settles inside, concealed under his mistress's flowing hair and ready to keep and eye out for danger. Imperia is quite surprised when the group meets with Pia, and a little worried to see the girl doesn't seem to be well. She smiles gratefully when the girl reveals the secret phrase, and is about to thank her when Pia pecks Korriban on the cheek and bids them farewell. Frowning slightly, Imperia simply turns around and follows her companions to the butcher shop. --- Knowing her skills at deception to be amateurish at best, Imperia decides to hang back and let Korriban, Raina and the others do the talking... ... At least till Raina decides to take more drastic actions, and grapples one of the guards!
When Korriban warns them of the danger, she grimaces, clearly tense about what's going to happen - "Whoever opens the door will get shot then? Well, I-I could summon an extraplanar being to draw away their fire... But I don't know if that'll be enough..." With a few words and a quick gesture, Imperia surrounds herself with arcane energy, ready for the unavoidable confrontation.
Imperia nods silently as Marshal Cressida explains exactly what she needs from the group, and she joins in with the others when they accept the task. "But Of course, Lady Cressida" - she bows slightly to the Marshal - "We would be honored to provide our talents to aid the Watch, and the city of Korvosa, in its hour of need."
When Raina talks about the butcher shop, Imperia backs up her words, reminded of the same story - "Indeed. I've heard the same rumors... Whatever's happening there, we should make haste and go as soon as possible, before the situation deteriorates further!" 'What's happening in this city? I'd have never imagined the King's death could bring such chaos...'
Seeing the drunken man, Imperia frowns slightly, but her expression rapidly changes from disapproval to worry when she determines the man's identity. 'Could he be... Sergeant Soldado? But... He's known to be honest and responsible! Why would he be... Like this?... Because of the King? Uhmm... Something's not right...' Patting Gadriel affectionately on the head, Imperia nods her approval - "Absolutely. 'Your mind is the most powerful tool you have. Don't let it get clouded, or you may find yourself lacking it when you need it the most!'... Well, or at least this is what old professor Quinsworth used to tell - She whispers to the young girl, chuckling lightly - "In any case, Abu'd be right to chastise you if you did... You are far too young to drink, and in any case no proper lady would ever be seen in public like that!" - she adds with a gentle smile, obviously enjoying trying to help the young witch with her advice.
I'm mortified beyond belief. Just when I thought the worst was over and I had pulled through, it went all down to hell. Suffice to say I'm looking for a new job, and possibly in a few days a new home. Saying I've been miserable the past few days would be an understatement. To avoid falling into depression, I'm taking a few days off job-hunting and so on to 'reorganize my life', so to speak... Paradoxically, this means I should be able to spare the time to play a little bit! At least it'll cheer me up some! :) Right now I really need some sleep, when I get up I play to come back, read all about what I missed and finally post something. Thank you all for your patience!
I'm writing this for every game I'm in: I'm deeply sorry I disappeared for as long as I did. As you may know I'm dealing with serious problems with my job, and in the past week I was hit with an issue after another, regarding work, family and health. I've been so busy I didn't have the time to even think about taking a few moments for myself. Of course, I should have posted as much way sooner than now, instead of just disappearing and leaving everyone waiting. Every day I would tell myself I had to take a few minutes to at least write a quick post about my inability to play, and every day something new and disastrous would happen that required dealing with without delay (yes, it's been one of the worst weeks of the last several years...) My situation SHOULD be getting better starting next week, and I'll do my best to start posting again on Monday. Once again, I'm very sorry for disappearing like I did, and I hope I didn't cause too much trouble. Hope to see you next week! :)
"Uhm... A thunderstone?... Yes, most definitely a thunderstone." - Imperia sentences, once she has looked over the peculiar pebble from every possible angle - "They are alchemical creations, and can be hurled or struck to release a deafening blast of sonic energy. It should be handled with care... Here, CATCH!" - she suddenly yells, throwing her arm back as if she wanted to hurl the stone at Korriban! ... Only to stop a moment later, a mischievous grin on her face and giggling softly - "Please forgive me, I couldn't resist! Here, take the stone, no tricks this time, I promise." - she apologizes, handing the thunderstone back to Korriban, a few giggles still escaping her lips.
"Quite soundly actually" - Imperia smiles back at Korriban - "Yesterday was an... Eventful day, and a little rest was much needed." When Korriban hands her the strange stone, Imperia takes it and examines it thoroughly, murmuring a few arcane words of power under her breath.
The sun already high in the sky, Imperia finally awakens under the 'gentle' ministrations of her loyal familiar, crawling all over her face and lightly pinching her ear as a way to chastise her for being so late. Climbing out of bed, and realizing with an hint of shame that all the others must be already up, she proceeds to freshen up and finish her morning routine as swiftly as possible. Fortunately, thanks to her magics the whole process takes but a few minutes, and when she gets downstairs to join her friends, her hair is gracefully done, her face is perfectly decorated with tasteful makeup, her dress is smooth and unblemished and she is surrounded by her usual light essence smelling faintly of roses.
"Good morning everyone. I'm afraid I may have overslept... My apologies..." - she greets her friends, more than an hint of shame in her tone. She looks a bit perplexed when she notices Celia seems to be eating some kind of pastry - 'Oh... Oliphant Ears? Some early bird must've gone out and bought them...' - but that thought is quickly replaced by the joy of seeing her little sister happily eating her breakfast, just on of the simplest little things she so much feared she would never be able to see again when Celia went missing... After giving the little girl a warm hug, Imperia pulls a chair next to her sister, and after politely asking permission, and making sure Celia did in fact act in a dignified manner by asking permission herself and giving proper thanks, she joins the others for breakfast.
I'm alive! Aliiiive, I tells ya! After many, many, MANY hours of almost uninterrupted work (no seriously it was ridiculous: get up, work, eat while working, work, go to bed, repeat... -.-'), I'm back to an almost humane schedule and have a little free time! I'm just going to grab something to eat, then I'll finally post something! ^_^
Thanks for your understanding guys, and believe me I feel awful promising something and not being able to maintain that promise, but I really can't make it tonight. My work situation has become almost as bad as it was in January, and right now free time is really something I'd like to have, but I can't afford to take (if you think right now here is 3:30 AM and I'm STILL working you'll understand the predicament I'm in! O.o') Please feel free to advance the plot, I don't want to hold everyone, and I'll do my best to write a post as soon as I can (possibly doing a 'double post' with Imperia waking up, and then her actions if the plot moved forward) Once again, with all my apologies, please don't wait for me and go on! :)
Uff... I'm sorry guys I'm swamped with work right now, I promise I'll post as soon as I can (probably in a couple of hours)! :(
All done! Leveled up and ready to go! ^_^
As soon as the group gets back, Imperia hurries upstairs to check on her sister, and sighs in relief when she finds her peacefully asleep. Smiling down on the sleeping girl, Imperia gently strokes her hair and gives her a light kiss on the forehead, careful not to wake her, then joins the others in the large bedroom. When Gadriel climbs out of the window, Imperia is about to stop the young witch to try and make her sleep in one of the beds, but before she can utter a word the girl is gone. She does take notice when Korriban makes his way to the roof as well to give Gadriel his coat, and gives him a wide smile and an approving nod when he gets back - "That was very thoughtful of you... You are a good man, Korriban, you know that?" - obviously moved by the gesture. As the sleeping arrangements are discussed, Imperia looks at the others for a moment, before offering her solution - "Well, there is really no need to do guard shifts. You see, back at the Acadamae it would've been very... Unsavory, shall we say? To sleep without proper precautions, and my familiar Rutilus has helped in all these years by guarding me at night..." - At the mention of her familiar, Imperia tugs at her cloak in a peculiar fashion, and not a moment later her large scorpion familiar emerges from the folds of her mantle and climbs his way to Imperia's shoulder - "If you want, he could easily keep watch all night for us, then get his sleep during the day. Gods know he is used to it!" - she states, affectionately scratching the large scorpion's carapace. For his part, Rutilus squirms happily under his mistress' ministrations, enjoying the attention. Gracefully accepting the offer to sleep in the large bed with Raina, Imperia bids goodnight to the others, climbs into the bed, and peacefully falls asleep.
Once again, I'm late to post (writing something now, sorry)... :( Also, lvl 2! Wooo hooo! :D
Imperia smiles and even offers a little bow when the pseudodragons take their leave after helping them defeat the gang of imps. When the knocked-out imps are taken care of, she speaks a few words of power and points a delicate finger at each of her friends; in short order blood, sweat and disgusting ichor is removed from them, replaced by a faint smell of roses. "No reason to run around the city covered in filth and smelling like refuse, now is there?" - Imperia smiles to her companions, before getting ready to move on.
------- Once inside the Rosa, and seeing how the place seems well-guarded and ready to repel any possible attack, Imperia finally lets her guard down and her nerves distend visibly, even if she remains a bit weary about her new surroundings. It's with a mix of uncertainty and curiosity that she looks around the place, especially at the handful of women present in the room. When Korriban introduces her, she gives a tentative smile and a little curtsey - "Imperia Videlia Aspexia Winthrune. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance." After Lialda uses her talents to heal the wounds of the newcomers, Imperia seems to finally regain her composure and thanks the generous woman profusely, both for the healing and her hospitality - "You have our deepest thanks lady Balros, your graciousness in our hour of need is a gift we won't forget. But as my friend just pointed out, there are matters we need to attend to, and we must be on our way as soon as possible." 'I just hope everything is okay with Celia... If something... No, no, she's fine, she's fine, everything is going to be fine...' When Korriban and Raina get back and she's handed her share of the loot, she accepts with a little nod and pockets the gold. Hearing Gadriel's exchange with Korriban, Imperia chimes in with a smile - "Hey little one, if you want when we have the time it'd be my pleasure to help you get some pretty clothes, my treat! Would you like that?" - she tells the young girl, trying to affectionately ruffle her hair a little bit. 'He's good with children...'
Finally home! Uff... I've worked all day, I'm exhausted! (-.-)' Gimme just a few minutes to eat something and I'll make a post in the gameplay thread. EDIT - Made it! ^_^ Sorry again for holding everyone up, believe me I'm doing my best, but these days I've way less free time than I'd like. :o
Sorry guys I wasn't able to post today. I promise I'll do it as soon as I can tomorrow! :(
"Ah!" - Imperia winces as the small devil stings her and injects its poison. Trying to ignore the pain and an increasing sense of dizziness, the young wizard keeps her footing and gazes upon the imps with a defiant expression on her face. 'If we don't finish this quickly, their poison will be our death...' "SCRAAWCK!!" Just then, a pack of pseudodragons comes to the rescue, and Imperia rejoices at their sight. "Hvala vam, plemenita zmaji! Z vašo pomočjo bomo to odvrača prijateljem!" - she shouts ecstatic at the pseudodragons, watching as they quickly attack and dispatch the great majority of the little devils. Draconic:
"Thank you, noble dragons! With your help we will repel these fiends!" With renewed hope, Imperia raises her wand, and launches another barrage of eldritch force at the last foe standing.
Imperia balks at the sight of the gang of imps ready to assail the group, knowing full well from her time at the Acadamae what a swarm of the little fiends is truly capable of. "Be careful, don't underestimate them!" - She shouts to her companions - "They are more powerful than they may look... And much more devious!" 'We might nee help with this... Or a way to fight them one at a time...' The young mage looks around quickly, trying to determine if there is anything at all she could do to give her friends an edge for the deadly confrontation ahead.
Hey guys, I'm back! ^_^ Wow, there is a metric TON of posts I need to go through before I'm up and running again, might take a little bit... Anyway, I'm thrilled to be able to play again, and hope I didn't cause too much trouble with my absence.
Imperia nods gravely after hearing the tiefling's confession - "Then aside from Lamm and yourself, no one else knows about her personally..." - her face visibly relaxes, and she breathes a sigh of relief, but after a brief moment her eyes meet again with the tiefling's, her expression cold and harsh once more - "For what it's worth, know I appreciated your collaboration, and I won't enjoy in the least what I'm about to do... But I have to. I cannot allow you to go free, and tell about Celia's identity to your cult..." Slowly, with an almost pained expression, she raises her crossbow, points it at the man's head, and with a few last words - "May the gods have mercy on your soul." - pulls the trigger.
Re-posting this in every game I'm in, since server rollback destroyed my last post: Due to family issues, health concerns (just a touch of the flu, but still), and a terrible crisis at work all of my time is taken, and I won't be able to consistently be present here on the boards and play. I'll try my best to write something whenever possible, but at the very least till the 28, when a work deadline I can't possible afford to miss is set, my presence here will be sporadic at best. I'm deeply sorry for any inconvenience this may cause, and I give every GM permission to bot my characters any way the see fit, if the need arises. Thank you guys, sorry again, and happy gaming! ^_^
Imperia accepts the bolts Korriban hands her with gratitude, then leaves the little room, and the grisly scene in it, and is about to go back to her sister, but just then her eyes are caught by the sight of the captive tiefling, and her expression hardens, anger and contempt clearly visible in her eyes. Approaching Raina, she delicately puts a hand on her shoulder and bends down a little to whisper something in her hear - "Please Raina, could you take care of Celia for a moment? Talk with her a little... Maybe tell her a story? I need to... Do something, and I don't want her to see that."
Imperia thanks the strong woman profusely, then as soon as Celia's attention is elsewhere, she slowly approaches the tiefling. While she steps closer, she deliberately pulls out her crossbow, and casually loads a bolt in it, with slow, fluid motions, till the bolt clicks in place just as she's in front of the despicable man. "Listen carefully, because I won't repeat myself" - Imperia addresses him, her tone soft and pleasant, and yet imbued with unmistakable gravity - "I don't care who you are, or what pathetic little secrets your feeble mind is trying to keep. What I do care about, is knowing if anybody else is going to come after my sister or not... So, I'm going to ask you a few questions, and believe me when I tell you your life may very well depend on how you answer me..." - she gives the tiefling an especially hard look, the proceeds with her interrogation - "Who are you? What were you doing here? How do you know my sister? And who else knows about her?"
Kneeled down on the dirty platform, Imperia hugs her sister tightly, gently stroking her hair and murmuring reassuring words while the little girl desperately cries with her head buried in her older sister's chest. The two sisters, finally reunited, remain locked in their embrace for long moments, until eventually Celia's sobs slowly diminish and come to a cease. When Korriban Addresses the little girl, Imperia reassures her sister - "Don't worry, Korriban's not as scary as he looks. He's a... Friend. It's thanks to his help, and everyone else's in this room, that I was able to find you." - she smiles warmly at her sister, then shoots a strange look at Korriban, and when Celia isn't looking she catches the rogue's attention and spells out a few words with her lips without making any sound - Don't scare her! With her friends busy, Imperia takes a few moments more to fuss over her sister. With a flick of her wrist and a few arcane words, she removes all the dirt and stains from her own robe and Celia's clothes, then proceeds to gently wipe away her sister's tears from her cheeks, and finally tries to comb the child's hair to be a little less unruly.
Just when she's standing up satisfied, finished with her work, Korriban's scream makes her jump in surprise - "W-What? What do you mean she's... Celia, stay here, don't move, do not come any closer! I'll be right back."
With just a few quick steps, Imperia enters the room, and takes a look at the grisly sight in the hatbox - "B-But how could this be? It doesn't make any sense! We spoke to her just hours ago..." When Gadriel speaks up and shares her knowledge with the group, she looks upon the young girl with a perplexed expression - '... A Ghost? Could it be? Well, it'd be very unusual... But not impossible, I suppose. Professor Quinsworth once gave a lecture about the nature of ghostly apparitions, and their need to right the wrongs inflicted upon them, before they could pass in the Beyond... Is this what happened, and why she contacted us? Uhm...' - but eventually she's forced to sigh and shake her head, unable to find a satisfying answer without additional information.
Imperia's eyes go wide when she gets a glimpse at the brooch Korriban is holding. "That brooch... I may have not seen it before in person, but it does look like..." - She takes the item and examine carefully from every angle - "Yes, the description matches perfectly. This brooch belongs to the Queen herself! It was reported as stolen from a jeweler's shop who had been contracted to repair the clasp" - perplexed, she deposits the brooch back in Korriban's hands - "How did Lamm ever manage to get his hands on something so valuable?"
I'm drowning in work right now, but I promise I'll make a post in the gameplay thread in a few hours!
Imperia smirks when she hears her bolt strike true, confident that final hit was enough to put down the huge alligator for good... ... Only to stumble backward against the wall in fear when the dying beast makes its way toward her, its giant jaws open and ready to strike - '... Is this what Zellara warned me about? The terrible price I may have to pay?...' - only to fall just short of legs, unable to climb the platform. Moments later, Korriban comes to her aid and dispatches the alligator with a well placed throw of an acid vial, finally ending the savage beast's threat, and likely avenging the many victims it claimed over the years. Her heart still beating madly in her chest, she impulsively steps closer to Korriban and grips his arm - "That thing... When it came for me I-I really thought... Thank you, truly, thank you!" - she looks away from the pool of water, and slowly raises her head, until her large, violet eyes are staring into his deep, green ones... ... But just then the magical mist pervading the room abruptly recedes, and Imperia jumps back in surprise, releasing the rogue's arm. Finally able to gaze upon the whole room, she immediately looks at her little sister, apparently uninjured, but still dangling from the roof. "Celia! It's alright, it's all over now! I'm taking you down from there, hold on!" - she exclaims, making her way to her sister and trying to find a way to free her and pull her down.
When Korriban gets past her, Imperia looks him over carefully with a concerned expression - "Korriban, your leg! I-It looks bad... That cursed alligator! But don't worry, I'm sure Teodor will heal your wounds!" - she hurriedly looks around for the mad cleric, the fog all but blocking her vision. Fortunately, help comes swiftly, even if from another source, and Imperia is greatly relieved to see her friend up and running again. She gives Gadriel and Abu a look of admiration. 'I didn't think... She has such intriguing powers! I'd be delighted to speak with her about that, when we have the time...'
Even with the thick magical mist still pervading the room, thanks to Raina's warning and a bit of luck Imperia is able to spot the large alligator once more.
Sorry for keeping you waiting guys, been a very busy day! I'm posting something as soon as possible, I promise! :)
With Gobbly almost dead, it could be fun to dispatch the tiefling next, then gang up on Lamm, disarm him, and make him pay! ;) But not if he's dead! C'mon Teo, don't maul the old fool, heal Korry and/or bash the tiefling's face in! ^_^ (Also, where's Gobbly? Did he run away?)
"Korriban!" - Imperia screams, seeing her friend being viciously attacked by the giant alligator. When the acquatic monster releases his hold and slumps back into the pool, she gets a good look at Korriban's mauled leg, and her face pales with dread. With all her companions stepping up to save Korriban, Imperia doesn't waste any time, and joins the group effort. Despite the magical darkness and thick mist pervading the room, Imperia strives to pinpoint the position of the large alligator... And when she notices the faint glimmer of his eyes in the water, she acts on impulse. Within a moment, the shining tip of her loaded crossbow is lined up with the alligator's eyes, ready to be discharged on the unsuspecting beast.
I'm just kind sad that Korriban won't get his killing blow on Lamm. But, what can you do? If you want to, we can try that way! For instance, I could redirect the Celestial Eagle to attack the crocodile (boldy vs gobbly! Now that'd be an epic fight! xD). Of course, Lamm will rain arrows of death upon us if we leave him alive too long, and that could be very risky! Since I'm fine either way, I'll leave the choice to you guys. ^_^
Hearing the loud bang, Imperia jumps in surprise. 'What was that!?... Is Celia in there? S-She could be injured... I need to see!' Without a moment's hesitation, Imperia barges into the room, weapon in hand and ready to take her sister back at any cost.
Once inside, her eyes immediately set onto the small figure dangling from the ceiling, and her hand flies to her mouth in shock - "CELIA! W-what've they done to you!?... Don't worry, I'll get you down from there, I promise! Everything'll be alright!" When she turns her gaze to her sister's captors, her face is a mask of hate. If her temper was raised before, when she confronted Hookshanks the gnome, now she's absolutely livid, completely beside herself with rage. - she screams, every word imbued with pure, unadulterated hatred - "I WILL RIP YOU LIMB FORM LIMB AND SEND YOU SCREAMING DOWN THE PITS OF HELL, IF IT'S THE LAST THING I DO!" Raising her hand into the air, she utters unspeakable words of power, then, with a strange glint in her eyes, she points her slender finger at Lamm.
Don't worry, take your time! We're not on a schedule. ^_^
Whops! Updating profile now. ^_^
Imperia is clearly distraught when she hears her sister might be in peril. "Yes, absolutely!"- she hurriedly answers Korriban - "There isn't a moment to waste, let's go!" Taking a deep breath, she sets her gaze on the door, ready for her companion to kick it down and burst in.
We're almost at our confrontation with Lamm! The suspense is killing me, I can't wait! ^_^
Hearing strange, high-pitched noises, Imperia raises her head, trying to figure out what all the ruckus is about.
After a moment, she turns toward her friends with a slightly puzzled expression on her face. "Did you hear that? All the chittering, shrieking and whistling... It sounds like outside a pack of pseudodragons is fighting a group of imps! That's... A little odd? I thought pseudodragons migrated to the Mindspin Mountains during the summer." - Imperia suppresses a grimace - "Imps... Disgusting little pests! there were days the Acadamae grounds were so full of them we had to try and attarct pseudodragons just to help us get rid of the little monsters... Uhm... In any case, it sounds like the fight is quite in the distance, I don't think we have any reason to worry. For now at least..."
Imperia is rather dismayed the children ran off in terror, without the chance for the group to reveal their identities and direct them to somewhere safe. When Raina voices her concerns, she chimes in as well - "They must be so scared... They are so young, and have been through so much... As soon as we have visited justice upon that monster of Lamm, we have to track them down and help them find a proper home!" Taking the wand Korriban hands her, Imperia inspects the item for the briefest moment, before advancing an educated guess - "It's obviously a magical wand. I'm fairly certain it contains a basic spell of elemental evocation, and nothing more. Given a little time, I could discern the exact incantation, and the charges left in the wand... But it's not something we should do right now. Lamm is here somewhere, and so is my sister. We need to find them immediately!"
Deeply concerned for Adoros's grievous wound, Imperia approaches him and tries to discern just how bad a state the proud cavalier is in. After his reconciliatory words toward Korriban, Imperia offers him a bright smile, glad the tense situation seems to be defused... ... Only to be caught completely off-guard by Raina's retort, and blushing a little due to her direct language. "Raina, I... Don't think Adoros meant anything offensive, he was just making a peace offering, so to speak, as Korriban just did moments before. And I'm very glad to see we are getting past our differences and trying to work together! Come now, we still have much to do, we need to find Lamm and free my sister!" - just as she turns away, she adds over her shoulder - "And just for the record, I AM a lady, and proud of being one, and I could easily use my magical talents to conjure something to kick anyone's behind three ways to Toilday AND back... Now, let's focus on the task at hand, shall we?" When the prostitute suggests she could tag along, Imperia raises an eyebrow, ready to chastise the rash girl for suggesting such reckless course of actions, but Korriban beats her to the punch, and she's happy to let him handle it. Imperia is quick to follow Gadriel and Korriban down the hole onto the hidden underpier, eager to reach Lamm's true hideout and be reunited with her lost sister. Mistaking the young girl's cry for a sign of fear, she tries to get to her friends without making any loud noises, and whispers to Gadriel - "Everything is fine Gadriel, don't worry. You are not alone, we are here for you."
Clutching her crossbow so tightly her knuckles whiten, Imperia steels herself for the upcoming confrontation.
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