OOC: Reply 200

IC: Pach squirmed and breathed heavily as he tried to escape his bonds. At every instant that he tried, the tentacle live vines tightened their grip around his limbs. He was unable to escape. He gasped. Several of the vines purposefully tensed in an effort to restrict movement and cut off the blood circulation.

The A&W pirates sat huddled in a group in a corner, deliberating between themselves this important situation they were in.

So, how much rum have we got on the ship? Do we need to stock up? asked Lokki.

Ah-ah thin tats a bery, bery gooood idea. THS said. Gingerbeard nodded in agreement. Trudi just nodded. She liked nodding.

Guys. Dont you think we have more important matters to- Aidan began to speak.

Yarr, what be more important than rum?! Gingerbeard hastily interrupted.

Er, quite. Anyway, Aidan carried on. Moving on from rum for one second, dont you think we should do something about our captain?

You bloody bastards! Hurry up and get me out of here! Pach shouted down from his precarious position.

captain? Gingerbeard reiterated, frowning.

Uh-uh, yesh! Ah d-do beleve tid be a good idea te rescuuue Pach. Yes. THS hastily interrupted. Phew, crisis averted.

Oi! Pach shouted back again.

Calm down, sir Pach. Your rescue is of course a work in progress. If you would calm down we would all be able to help you easily. Lokki replied.

Calm down?! Youre not the one being f*cking violated!

O_o

Fishears, hovering in midair, had assumed the Thinker position. Whilst the others were discussing rum, he was considering how to actually free Pach. His eyes suddenly snapped open, as he thought of an idea. Yarr, I didnt want to have to do this so soon, but Fishears contemplated, whispering something only he could hear. but it doesnt look like theres any other way

A little bang erupted. A hole suddenly formed in the vines that were holding Pach, as a gunshot sounded out. Pach began falling to the ground with remnants of the vines that had trapped him. The vines dangling from the walls and ceiling retracted into the darkness, as if in pain. The lifeless remnants collapsed from Pachs body as he fell to the floor.

THS turned to see that Aiden was holding the shotgun and had fired a shell. He frowned, annoyed that Aiden had stole the weapon and used one of their precious shells. Aiden frowned back, arguing they had to prioritise. >=/ =< (FROWNING STANDOFF OHMY)

Lokki raced to Pachs twitching body. Hey! Are you alright? Lokki called.

Pach slowly picked himself up with Lokki help, rubbing his backside. Lets just move on and find those sodding artefacts. The group quickly raced through the room to another wooden door, opening it and entering a corridor where several more doors awaited. However, as soon as the group entered the corridor, they stopped still in earnest shock and horror. Surrounding them and blocking the entire corridor were zombies. All of whom were staring at them.

Aidan twisted the door knob to the room they had just come from. It was locked.

Oh, bloody hell a member muttered, as the zombies moved to overwhelm them, the other entrances to rooms beyond the oncoming zombies.

"Is this one of those moments we should use the shotgun?" Aidan said rather hastily.

THS cuddled the shotgun tightly.

"Okay...fine." Aidan sighed, and readied his mace.

"Aim for the head boys!" Lokki triumphantly declared. And so Aidan swung his mace at the zombie hoarde. They fell down rather easily, but they got back up just the same.

Trudi resorted to throwing her swords at the zombies, but again they came back, just with blades coming through their heads. Trudi frowned and pulled them right out and kicked the zombies back.

"Methinks an idea be brewin' in me noggin'..." Ginger smirked. He pushed a bookcase down which blocked the hallway, and it seemed that the zombies did not have the mental capacity to get around this.

"That's a good plan..." Pach said to Ginger. "But now how are we supposed to get through the bloody hallway?"

"Well." Aidan interrupted briefly. "there are still some doors here we can go through." He pointed to four doors lining the hallway, two on each side. "How about we split up and cover more ground?" he continued.

"You can't do that!" Pach objected. "That's what they want us to do! Pick us off one by one when we're on our own!"

"Okay then..." Aidan was interrupted by the creaking sound of the bookcase slowly cracking under the pressure from the zombie's the other side of it.

"Come on! Somebody choose a door!"

Trudi was half way through doing an "eenie meenie miny mo" when Gingerbread just stumbled through a door. The rest shrugged and followed.

OOC: Damnit I might edit this later but I just want some activity plz. You've got until 6pm GMT to do what you want or I'll make up the room. And you know what I'm like with using other people's characters in this RP! *smirks at Pach*

Tiankai arrived at the mansion after several irritating encounters with Captain Dettol's crew. Finding the doors open she went on in. It wasn't hard to guess the direction her companions had taken; all she had to do was follow the trail of destruction. Immediately inside the doors was an entrance hall containing a maimed monster and several others that looked as though they'd been traumatised. Tiankai shrugged and then breezed past them.

In the next room she entered there were the remains of what looked like an army of mutant spiders. Pausing briefly to admire the scale of her companion's handiwork, Tiankai continued to follow their trail. The next room contained some weird plants that tried to grab her with their vines. After about ten minutes of slicing and dicing them with her twin cutlasses, the plants seemed to get the message and Tiankai continued on her way.

Further on she found some zombies breaking down a bookcase that someone had put across the corridor. Tiankai paused momentarily. She thought she had something that could potentially keep the zombies occupied for a little longer, something she'd made in Creoland. But would it work? There was only one way to find out.

Tiankai took a small object from her belt and hurled it in the direction of the now half-demolished bookcase. It exploded into a thick, choking white mist. Keeping her mouth shut and her nose closed, Tiankai watched until the mist cleared. Then she saw that the zombies, which previously had all been attacking the bookcase were now wandering aimlessly here and there, some even munching upon each other. Tiankai grinned to herself. So; it did work on zombies! That was something to bear in mind for the future. Noticing an open door she went into the room beyond.

Once inside, the first thing she saw was that a number of the crew were also there. "So it was you people who started the ruckus up here," she said, "what's the deal with that?"
"The owner of this place has stolen the artefacts we need," Pach told her, "so we're here to try and find them".
"Couldn't one of you have come and told me that?" Tiankai asked, "instead of all rushing off here and leaving me to trail after you?"

"We're not all here actually," Pach answered, "and anyway how the hell did you get here so fast once you did know?"
"You took care of the deathtraps," Tiankai answered, "and I followed your trail". As she finished her sentence she finally located Lokki and said, "ah yes, that reminds me. You might want this!" With that she threw him his hat.

Lokki caught the hat gracefully. "Where did you find this pray tell?" he enquired as he cast aside the one he'd been using and donned the one Tiankai had thrown him. "It was on the head of some idiot in town who looked like he'd been mauled by a rake or something," Tiankai replied, "actually there's a lot of idiots all over the town rioting and causing chaos. What's more they all smell of bleach and cleaning agents".

Trudi seemed perturbed by this, but Tiankai didn't notice. "Anyway," she said, "now that I've caught up with you, where were you planning on going from here?"

The group cautiously walked into the new room. The arrival of Tiankai had surprised the group somewhat at first. But, they suddenly realised that they hadnt properly surveyed the room and that any number of threats or challenges to their lives could be awaiting them.

It was dark. Really dark. So dark that it was bloody almost impossible to see. Aidan felt around the walls for a light switch. However, just before he was able to find anything, two obnoxiously bright lights shone upon the groups. The brilliant lights dazzled the group and momentarily blinded them.

Oh hoh hoh! Welcome! a voice shouted out. Whilst the rest of the group were rubbing their eyes and moaning about their lack of eyesight, Pach reflexively assumed a defensive stance, protecting his face. He couldnt be sure but he suspected this voice brought trouble.

THS was spared, however. His glasses dimmed the extent of the lights, although he was too was somewhat blinded. He regained his composure far more quicker then the others, followed by Pach, whose massive afro had blocked some of the light to his eyes as well.

The two looked up. Above them on a second floor balcony was a man. Or, at least, it looked like a man. The two lights that brightly shone were from behind him, so rather, he was encased in shadow. Bookcases lined the walls of the large room. It looked to be a library.

The man was holding a cane and wearing a top hat. He wore rectangle glasses. He felt around the inside of his waistcoat, and pulled something out. At first, THS and Pach thought it to be a weapon, but in hindsight and from the shape of the object, it must have been a pocket watch. The newcomer inspected the watch, and nodded.

Yes, yes, its time indeed. About time in fact! Yes, yes, all follows according to plan. The newcomer mumbled, confusing the group.

The man jumped down from the balcony, and landed in the centre of the group. The rest of the group had just by now recovered their eyesight, and stumbled backwards in surprise.

By now the group could also see that mysterious man had a very distinguished moustache. His smile beamed. Welcome, my friends! Youve arrived just in time! ^_^

The group eyed the man peculiarly. Who the hell was he? Friend? Foe?

Who are you? Tiankai asked, frowning.

The man smiled as he turned to look at her. I am your host, but of course! He bowed. Lord Bastian, at your service!

Fishears paused. His name was similar to that of the owner of the manor, Brandon, but no, they werent the same man. They shouldnt be mixed up. Still the new fellow perturbed him.

The group all just looked puzzled.

I shall be your guide through the mansion! Follow me, please! Bastian said, backflipping to the exit. He stood in front of the door. As he opened it, Please be careful. This place has been fitted with many traps and dangerous opponents. So, please keep your hands and legs inside the attraction at all times! He jumped through the exit, and seemed to vanish.

The group hastily ran to the door to see what was next, but all suddenly stopped as they peered on. In the next room was just a big hole which sunk into inky blackness. They couldnt see what was beyond. The hell? Lokki said aloud.

Alley oop! came a voice from behind. Bastian had suddenly appeared and kicked the person at the end of the group, who, in a domino effect, pushed all the others out into the hole, along with themselves. They all began to fall, screaming, and Bastian jumped in with them. The ride is about to begin! Dont forget your seatbelts!

The group crashed into a fairly small minecart on tracks. They all landed haphazardly, and as they did, the rickety old minecart began to move. It began to move around a track in a narrow tunnel at an alarmingly fast speed, to a destination that none could be sure of. Please be careful of nearby traps such as hidden arrows and swinging blades! Bastian exclaimed with a cheerful expression on his face. The mine cart didnt actually have any seatbelts, and the group struggled to all fit in.

And awaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay we go! #N________________N# Bastian hollered.

The small cart continued to fly around the corners, nearly tipping over at every one of them. Everyone was screaming and panicking, apart from Aidan who was being sat on.

As he righted himself, he found out he was stuck in the middle of the cart with everyone yelling all around him, apart from Bastian who was rather enjoying the trip, and fishears, who was hanging off the back taking in the scenery.

"Everyone duck!" Bastian howled. They proceeded to do so just in time to avoid the low ceiling that would have left them minus one head.

"Alright chaps! Everyone get ready! The best part is coming up!" Batian shouted over the rickety noise of the mine cart.

"There's a best part?!" Patch screamed rather insanely.

"Oh bugger..." Lokki said. Everyone tried to come to their senses to see the huge gap in the track.

"You's got to be kidding mate!" Ginger blurred. "Thez no way we gonn' get over 'at!"

Aidan looked around at everyone. Tiankai was trying to sit still as much as possible, Lokki was holding onto his hat tightly, because he likes that hat, Ginger's eyes were rolling at insane speeds, Patch's afro was boucing up and down, which was kind of funny. Trudi was just screaming loudly, it was hard to tell if she was terrified or enjoying this, Bastian seemed incredibely excited at being hurled into certain death, Fishears seemed to be unmoved by anything, and THS looked like that he was about to hurl up that last bottle of rum he had. Aidan lightly turned THS's head over the side of the cart, so that he didn't have to experience THS's half consumed rum, he was just turning around when they hit the ramp, and went airborne.

Everything seemed to go in slow motion during the jump. Bastian assumed a rather gleeful face ^____^ while everyone else's faces were filled with something a lot less cheery. o_____O

After what seemed like an eternity, they somehow landed on the other side and continued along the track. However, it seemed, that THS had tipped overboard and was hanging off the side.

"Help mee guyz! I dun like all iz flying!" He said as his legs were flying about all over the place. Tiankai, Pach and Aidan managed to haul him back in and the madness continued.

OOC: AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA this is so fun

IC: As the cart rattled on, the track took a much more deadly turn. As in front of them, they saw something moving. It was swinging... swinging...

It was a rediculously oversized axe.

It was lots of rediculously sized axes.

One swung past just as they approached it, scaring the daylights out of a couple of the members in the cart. Yet with every axe, they always missed it, abeit only just.

That was until they saw another axe that was swinging a different direction to the others.

Bastian make a noise which could only have been a "Squeee!"
and seemed very excited. "This bit's great!" he grinned.

"Really?!" Trudi yelled back, obviously not understanding the severity of the situation.

The axe swung forwards just as they approached it, so they avoided it.

THS had taken to keeping his eyes screwed shut now, but the others had their eyes following it. Then they sighed.

Too soon.

The axe swung back, slicing clean through the cart from the back to front, slicing it in half. Aiden was lucky to have dodged it, being sat in the middle and all - unlike all the others (excluding Tiankai who, despite her ice cool appearance always seemed as though she was looking out for attack at every second) he didn't put his guard down.

They stared at each other for a moment, Bastian grinning like the Cheshire Cat. The cart seemed unaffected.

And that's when the track suddenly split in two, and the two halves started on different paths.

Trudi screamed and applauded at this. The four remaining on her cart were Tiankai, who had her eyebrows raised at the other cart as it travelled further and further away, THS who looked like it was all getting a bit much for him, and Gingerbread who everyone was sitting away from due to his lack of clothing.

"Well, this be a pickle" said the familiar voice of Fishears from besides them. "I have to keep an eye on yer now, since all the good uns are on the other"

Trudi didn't notice him, she was too busy enjoying herself. Tiankai glared at him then looked back in front, while Gingerbread seemed to take this as a complement. THS moaned that he was tired then curled up on the floor of the cart in some strange feat of flexibility, since the space was tiny.

Just then the cart came to a very sudden stop, throwing all it's occupants out onto some ground at the front. The cart itself decided it had had enough of somehow balancing on two wheels and fell off the track into oblivion.

And the five of them found themselves standing in a pitch black room.

During the gut-wrenching journey to their current location Tiankai had only screamed once, for about three seconds. After that she'd shut up and laid her sesitive ears flat against her skull to shut out all the noise everyone else was making. When her half of the mine truck had finally come to a stop and unceremoniously ejected them, Tiankai had done the seemingly impossible trick all cats appear to have the knack of, and landed on her feet.

In the pitch darkness her feline eyes, which had been a serious disadvantage earlier due to the blinding lights, were able to see pretty well down here. Gingerbread had evidently tried to land on his feet as well, but due to the amount of alcohol he'd consumed earlier he'd ended up doing a perfect handstand. Tiankai quickly looked away, deciding that it was a mercy the others couldn't see so well in the dark. THS had somehow ended up tangled around Trudi's ankles & as a result Trudi was kicking him unmercifully. Whether this was because she thought he was a monster or because she just enjoyed kicking things Tiankai couldn't tell, but she decided not to ask.

Realising they'd need to do something sooner or later Tiankai decided to take the initiative. "Everyone, we need to stick together," she announced, "I can see you all so I'll help us get into a group". Having said this she strolled over to the others. Tapping Trudi on the shoulder she said " I want you to pair with me".
"Why?" Trudi responded.
"Because that way I'll be your eyes in the dark," Tiankai explained, "and you won't have to rely on someone who's had too much alcohol to help you. And I won't have a drunkard leaning on my arm".

As Trudi reluctantly agreed, muttering to herself, Tiankai went over to Gingerbread and asked sweetly, "Ginger dear would you do me a favour and pair with THS? I'd be ever so grateful if you would". Two seconds later THS and Gingerbread were leaning against each other, trying to stay upright.

This done Tiankai turned to Fishears, who had been floating nearby with a bemused expression on his countenance. "Can you guide us?" Tiankai asked him, "I mean you're a ghost; is your vision even affected by the darkness in here?"

"Yarr, that depends lassie," Fishears growled, "just where would I be guiding you to?"
"Out of here would be a start," Tiankai informed him, "and in the general direction of the artefacts would be ideal".
"There be the problem," Fishears told her, "I don't know where the artefacts be, beyond that they're somewhere in this mansion".

Tiankai dropped into her native language to respond to that. The others couldn't understand the words she used, but they understood the tone perfectly. "Can you at least guide us out of here?" Tiankai demanded.
"That I can do," Fishears replied, "If you'll all be followin' me". He began to drift away from them.

The four began to follow him, Tiankai and Trudi in front, THS & Gingerbread bringing up the rear. "Wha can' I lead?" Gingerbread slurred. "Because we need someone to lead who can see in the dark," Tiankai told him.
"C'n see inna dark, 'ma cat," Gingerbread retorted.
"Yes, but we need someone who can see in the dark and who's sober," Tiankai said in a firmer tone. With that the curious procession set off into the darkness...

Meanwhile, the other half of the mine cart continued to barrel down the tracks, which snaked and twisted ahead. As usual, Bastian was cackling insanely to himself while the others alternately groaned and screamed, as was their preference.

Suddenly, Bastian fell silent and a look of concern spread across his face. "Oh dear," he calmly remarked.

"What?!" yelled the other occupants in unison.

"Those points up ahead," he gestured vaguely at a rapidly approaching point in the distance. "I could have sworn they were set the other way when I tested the ride this morning. Oh well, we'll just have to see where they lead!" With this, Bastian assumed his usual manic grin. The others were not quite convinced.

With each passing second the mine cart raced towards the junction that led to almost certain doom (as opposed to fairly certain doom with a slight chance of survival on the assumption that this Bastian fellow isn't completely suicidal). All of a sudden, Lokki sat up straight.

"I've got it!" he cried, whipping out the pistols he'd been carrying ever since they met the merchant on the way from Creoland to Gredalst.

"Where did you get those all of a sudden?" asked OTB.

"Why, I've been carrying them ever since we met the merchant on the way from Creoland to Gredalst!" answered Lokki as he shot the points, flipping them to the correct position just as the cart reached the junction. It rocked violently as it ran over the changing tracks, but just barely stayed on the track.

"Aww, you're no fun," complained Bastian, who had been looking forward to seeing where the wrong turn would have led.

"You know," began Lokki as he fired at the next set of points. "This reminds me of a story some bloke" - bang! - "I met during my travels related to me. Something or other" - bang, bang! - "Freedman his name was, I believe. Of course, in his version he had control of the minecart, which was intact and going alot f-" - bang! - "-ing slower. Odd chap. Philosopher after a sort, but always wore this" - bang! - "funny grey and orange armour."

"Um," interjected Bastian, "You do realise only the first of those points was wrong, right? The others were all in the right position."

Between his recollections and shooting at the points as the half cart continued at its blistering pace, Lokki didn't have any attention to spare for Bastian and continued his ramblings. "...worked for, oh what were they called? Something like Black MesAAAAAAAAAAARRRGGGGHHHH!!!"

Suddenly, the track ended and the half a mine cart plummeted into blackness. Most of the riders echoed Lokki's sentiments, with the exception of Bastian, who characteristically yelled "Wheeeeeeeeeeee!"

The five tumbled and fell until they eventually landed in the same room as the other group of pirates just as they had gotten themselves organised and were about to head off. Lokki found himself lying on top of something warm, furry and - by the feel of it - female.

"Y halo thar..." he groaned.

Picking up on the sound of certain doom hurtling down from above Tiankai had looked up in time to see the other half of the mine cart falling towards herself and Trudi. Acting quickly, she'd manouvered herself and Trudi out of the path of the falling mine cart. Unfortunately this meant that the next moment they had someone land on them instead. Tiankai sighed to herself; it looked like it was going to be one of those nights...

Managing to get her head out from under whoever had landed on top of her, Tiankai saw that THS and Gingerbread had fared no better. They were partially obscured from her sight by Pach's enormous afro. The eccentric Bastian was standing nearby- apparently none the worse for the fall- wearing his usual ecstatic grin. That would mean...

"Y halo there," a voice groaned from on top of her and Trudi. That would be Lokki. "Lokki," Tiankai said, "as much as we're crewmates and all, could you move yourself please? You're a little closer than I'd like you to be. Plus Trudi might think you're a monster once she's no longer stunned, and I think you know what she does to monsters".

As the reunited pirates clambered to their feet again Tiankai asked, "has anyone got a torch or something similar to see by?" adding with a glare at Bastian, "and no obnoxious floodlights please".

"Wait," Pach said, "I think I can help". He raised his finger aloft. Slowly it began to glow with a gentle, orange-yellow light. "I'm not drawing on all my power for this," he told them, "and since I'm not attacking anything I can keep it going for a while. But if we meet anything else that tries to kill us I'm afraid you can say goodbye to our light".

"Well, at least now we can all see to follow Fishears," Tiankai remarked. "Why follow Fishears?" queried Bastian, his moustache twitching, "I'm your guide!"
"But Fishears isn't suicidal!" retorted Tiankai, before adding, "though I suppose in his case that isn't saying much".

"I be hearin' that lassie!" Fishears announced as he drifted back over to the group, "you be wantin' t'watch that tongue o' yars!"
"Can we just concentrate on getting out of here alive for now?" Tiankai said and added, "wherever 'here' is". For the first time the group took stock of their new surroundings.

The place in which they now found themselves was vast. By the light of Pach's finger they could just about make out the hole the other half of the mine cart had arrived through in the vaulted ceiling. The walls seemed to be carved out of solid rock, with intricate, twisting, intertwining designs inlaid into them. In the dim light they seemed to move and shimmer. Staircases ran here there and everywhere, like something from an impossible drawing. A faint breeze stirred the air, and carried a virtually inaudible sound upon it. Like many voices whispering in unison on the threshold of hearing.

Tiankai heard the murmerings and shivered involuntarily. She couldn't make out what the voices were saying, but she was certain she didn't want to make them out either. The wind changed direction, and now Tiankai could make out a different sound. Like someone playing upon an obtusely large organ very far away. "Arr," intoned Fishears who seemed to have heard it as well, "if you'll all be following me now".

As the group set off across the room Fishears told them, "if you think you catch sight of shadows moving out of the corner of your eye don't try to stop and look at them. And if the wind starts to sound like it's coming nearer run and don't stop! It's the only way to get through here alive".
"Didn't I tell you this was the fun bit?" quipped Bastian. Typical...

OOC: Sorry for such an epic post! Well my last two posts seem a little too close together. So now it's over to you guys!

Fishears begun hovering forwards, leading the ground to a staircase that moved upwards. The group moved in single file, following the ghost upwards. It felt notacibly cold and claustrophobic. The group had no idea how long this would last and it was almost suffocating. Trudi broke out into hesterics almost twice but the group had miraculously managed to calm her down both times. Nonetheless this was ridiculous. The group proceeded on in silence, anxious, sweat dripping from their brow. Bastian was the only one humming joyously with a wide smile on his face ^____^.

This almost seemed to last 20 minutes. Over the course of this, the group had ascended a staircase, walked along corridors, down another staircase and up one more. All in all, just when it seemed as though thered be no end, they found another spacious room where they could finally catch their breath

It was the same room as before, when both teams had crashed from their mine carts. Fishears had led them in a circle, right back to the SAME LOCATION. Ah, yarr well this be a pickle.

Some of the group collapsed from exhaustion, the pent up feeling of expectance and tension wearing them out, not to mention their other activities up until this point tonight. I thought you knew where you were going, Fishears? Aidan asked, panting.

Yarr, me? What the hell? Since when did I ever say I knew my way around a mansion Ive never been across bfore? Give me a break, I might still be alive as a ghostie but Im not a navigator. Fishears replied. The group groaned.

Oh dear, that was a bit silly. Came a somewhat downtrodden voice from Bastian, who looked over the grimacing Fishears with a finger to his mouth, like a curious little child. Tsk, I told you, you should have followed me! Itd have been much more fun!

Forget about fun, just lead us to the artefacts if you know where they are? Pach asked, frowning, as if inspecting Bastian. Bastian spinned to face Pach.

The artefacts? You mean the ones my master, Count Brandon, took? Oh yes, yes, of course I know where they are. He nodded knowingly with great emphasis. Hmm now where did my master instruct me to put them?

That next sentence didnt exactly leave the group feeling very hopeful. Oh yes! Bastian exclaimed in realization. He leaves the artefacts in his own care within his personal study. Hes been spending a lot of time there lately, and has been guarding those things so intensely~!

Its generally easy to get to his study, since thats where the sounds of the organs are coming, but youll need my help to avoid all the booby traps and get through this maze of a mansion! Bastian added. The group werent so sure of the reliability of such a statement, but they had little choice.

How many artefacts are there, and what do they look like? Pach asked. The group needed to be sure of information.

Hmm~ Bastian thought. There are three artefacts. As for what they look like, youll know its them when you see them. =)

Anyway, follow me! Bastian commanded, performing various flips in the air and somersaults, before landing and walking onwards. He pointed his cane in the direction they wanted, and the group followed.

The group entered another staircase, different to the one Fishears had chosen. It was much wider inside, and the stairs spiralled upwards for what seemed like an age. There was definitely light pouring inwards from above. An exit was there, but to where?

Come along! Bastian hollered. He started running forwards, and the group followed, not wanting to lose their guide. Once the group had all left the floor and stepped onto the staircase, a loud rumbling was heard and the ground shook. The group were almost knocked off their feet, but it only lasted a short time.

W-what werth tha? THS asked.

Hmm someone must have activated a trap switch in one of the stairs! Theres loads of hidden trap switches all across these stairs. I wonder who did it. N_n Bastian informed. Well, we should start running. Bastian began briskly jogging upwards. Just as the group began wondering why on earth he was doing so, the entrance they had come through was closed, and the ground below the staircase was separating into two, retracting into the walls on the side, leaving a blank hole below. A blank hole being quickly filled by rushing WATER THAT WAS RISING..

Holy hell start moving! Pach shouted, running upwards along with the group. The water was rising at an alarming rate, but if the group continued at this pace they *might* be able to get out in time. But then again, there were loads more other hidden traps that Bastian had mentioned off, and what was even worse still was

there was SHARKS in the rising water D:

There wasn't really much character interaction at this point, everyone was more concerned about the rising water infested with sharks. While Bastian skipped merrily along, everyone else was struggling to keep up.

Suddenly, THS stopped and looked over at the sharks.

"I AM THS, THE SHARK DESTROYER" THS randomly annouced, and threw his bottle of rum over the side and onto a shark, where the glass shattered all over it, and knocking it out.

"Rum..." It seemed THS instantly regretted disposing the rum to save himself.

"Great, now does anyone have anything else we can throw at them?" Aidan said as they started running again.

Ginger had the good idea of picking up a candlestick from an alcove in the wall, and throwing it down, however it missed.

"Oh forget it! just keep on running, we're almost at the top now!"

Trudi sighed. "I'm so bored" she moaned at THS who seemed to be sobering up a little, but didn't reply.

Trudi stopped. "I need... excitement. Come on then!"

"What?! What are you on ab-AAAAAAAAAAAH"

He yelled because at that moment, Trudi threw a chair (wtf is a chair doing on a staircase) through a window, wrenched the gun from THS's grasp, then threw THS himself across the room and through the window, before leaping after herself.

Aiden sighed and picked up the gun.

Meanwhile outside, Trudi was quite chuffed with her plan. I mean, as she lay in the thorn shrub after falling quite a long way, it didn't end in death!

THS landed on a conveniently placed mound of hay. It was probably his luck which was the reason neither were dead, but Trudi didn't really think of that.

Trudi got out of the shrub, and realised that she was bleeding quite a bit. Oh well.

THS got up, and didn't actually look very bothered about being thrown out of the window from several floors up. "So what should we do?"

"I know the answer to that!" came a booming voice from behind. "Boy, 'ave you ever 'eard of showering? Or new clothes?"

THS blinked and looked down. Oh yeah. He hadn't changed since they left Espoir Gauche. Probably before.

"Girl, you come with me. We need to talk" With that Dettol put a massive, toxic smelling hand on Trudi's shoulder and steered her away, despite her colourful protests.

Ginger blinked... uh, winked? Opened and closed his eye in rapid succession at any rate, as THS and Trudi dissapeared daringly out the window.

"If'n she can' be dealin' wit water an' sharks, why do she be a pirate?" He mused, turning to Tiankai. "I'll be bettin' ye know jus' how ta deal with monsta's like this, don' ye fine wench?"

Tiankai glared at him momentarily, and thought to herself. "Why yes actually." Then pushed him into the water. Hard.

"!" He screamed. Which obviously sounded quite odd, before hitting the water with a great splash, landing square on the nose of a shark. Now as everybody knows, hitting a shark on the nose should cause them to retreat.

This effect is greatly enhanced if you hit them with the naked butt of a scabby looking cat who hasn't washed... uh. Ever. Thus the fiendish fish scarppered, letting out a "Yipe-yipe-yipe," which was odd seing as they were underwater, and you-know, sharks, but there you go. This just left Gingerbread to doggy-paddle back to the others. "Arrrr! Don' do tha'! I don' swim ta well D.<" He arred at the remaining Davers.

"Oh this was just the paddling pool, don't be such a wet blanket, the real pool is far more fun N___n" Replied Bastion, continuing his lead.

The window through which THS and Trudi had broke through had amazingly reformed the next time that the group looked towards it. Tiankai frowned and kicked it, to see if it was still possible to escape through this way but the attack failed. The window was now surprisingly reinforced and not penetrable.

That, and the water continued to rise even if all the sharks had vanished thanks to Gingerbeards interesting ability, the water was still rising, and albeit them being pirates, surviving for an elonged period of time underwater wasnt an option.

The group continued racing forwards, gaining height as they climbed the stairs, rushing water continuing to pursue them. Just when it seemed itd never end, the stairs finally ended. The group crossed over a bridge spanning the diameter of the circular room, to a wooden door at the end of it. Aidan rushed to it, and began pushing it, and fiddling with the handle. It refused to open, and the water was quickly becoming upon them

Move out of the way, Pach said, pushing Aidan to the side. The fox performed a small stride, his arm suddenly stretching as his index finger swiftly moved towards the door. The finger and door collided, and the door was sent flying open. Quickly! The pirate captain commanded, and the group who remained rushed in, quickly closing the door again. Although it seemed improbable that it could do so, the threat of the water ended. It didnt reach them.

Well now, Lokki began. How much further to the ol Count, now?

Theres an elevator here. Bastian smiled, pointing to it. Bottom floor. N_n

The group were flabbergasted with irritance. They just climbed a set of stairs to the very top of the manor just for them to have to go back down to the very bottom again. Hey, Bastian, couldnt this elevator have gone up as well?!

The group all walked into the elevator. They pushed the button for the very most lowest level, and as the doors shut, the group waited in silence in agitation and anxiety over what was to happen next. This tense silence amongst the group wasnt made much more cheerful despite the usual elevator music which accompanied them.

Ding!

The doors opened. The group quickly clambered out and assumed defensive positions, awaiting anything that could attack them next. There was nothing. It was a small room with one other exit. The wooden creepy door would lead to another room, and the music from the organs was at an all time high. They had to be in the next room.

Well well, chaps, have fun getting the artefacts. ^_^ Bastian said from behind them. He was still in the elevator, and its door were closing.

Youre not coming? Pach queried.

Oh my, no. =( Bastian replied. Itd be no doubt fun but I dont exactly want to wake my anger my former master from intruding. But! Do as you must to recover those artefacts. =) Its been fun hanging out with you! The doors shut and a low hum followed to signify the elevator was moving.

Yarr, he be quite a strange fellow, Gingerbeard observed, nodding sagely to himself. The group just gave the former captain a queer look. Yeah, he was one to talk.

Anyway, lets do this! Pach commanded, and once again performed a swift movement. His finger blasted the door open, which went flying off its hinges and sprawling into the room beyond. It crashed in the centre of it, and made a loud bang as it did. The organs stopped playing as it did.

The group slowly entered the room. It was incredibly large and spacious and fairly illuminated in certain areas due to precisely placed wall mounted candle sticks. A bed was in the corner, whilst in the opposite were book shelves and a desk for studying. A posh carpet aligned the floor, whereas, immediately opposite the entrance, along the far wall of the room was a massive organ set. Whilst all these details existed in the room, none of them were the focus of the groups attention. It settled only on that of the figure sitting at the stool to the organ sets. He had a large cape drawled around him, and a hood which covered his face.

Yarr, Count Brandon, I presume? Fishears shouted out. Weve come to collect what youve stolen.

you come barging into my home and make demands of me? the figure replied. It was softspoken and quiet. The group would have struggled to hear it, although those whom were anthropomorphs could quite easily hear it to their enhanced senses.

We want the artefacts back! Pach shouted, pointing towards the figure. Return them!

The figure disappeared. It wasnt teleportation or anything as such. It was simply that the cloaked and caped figure had moved at an exceptional speed, one far faster than that the group could see. It didnt help that there were pockets of black darkness as well in the room, but anyway. The fact was, the figure had shifted from his initial position to that of behind Pach, before any of the group could realise.

What followed was an ear piercing scream. A shunk sound followed, and as the group came to their senses, they could see that it was Pach screaming, and that the hooded figure had grabbed him and trapped him, his head hanging over his shoulder. Two gleams of white could be seen, sharp objects piercing the flesh of Pachs neck. They were teeth.

The group rushed to Pachs aid, but once again the figure suddenly vanished, moving at insane speeds back to the organ stool, which he now stood upon. Pach collapsed to the ground, unconscious.

For your intrusion there can only be one option!! Death! Count Brandon raised his arm, and two objects that were besides the entrance to the door moved. The group looked behind to see armoured knights that they had originally mistaken for statues, alive and serving their masters bidding. They were carrying shields and lances. And you Brandon muttered. you who so arrogantly walked in here. You can also remove your friends from this life as well!

Pach slowly moved up from the ground. His body shuddered as it did, until it finally righted itself. The A&Wers looked towards him in horror. Pachs eyes were solid white, and his expression was that of one most foul. He turned to his companions, ready to attack!

THS had got a little self concious after the large man who smelled of household cleaners has shouted at him, so quickly ran into town and found a small shop selling clothing, open despite the lateness of the hour and the attack by Dettol and his crew.

Within, he began to try on clothes - he figured he had some time to kill - finding himself a very nice coat, a shirt much more suited to seafaring than the previous t-shirt, some new trousers, and a hat he found particularly dashing. He decided not to change his boots. He liked those boots.

After making sure no one saw him and sneaking his old clothes onto coathangers as though they were the shop's own, a bloodcurdling scream was heard from the mansion. Acting on impulse, THS ran from the shop, quickly enough so the owner hadn't noticed his change of clothes, and ran up the hill towards the mansion.

Then, suddenly, he stopped - is this really what he wanted? He'd been through a lot since he joined the crew, and he decided he had been given an opportunity to have a break. Ok, so the rest of the crew might think it a bit selfish to not come to their aid, but on the other hand Trudi had walked off with that large pirate, and although she seemed to know him, it's always gentlemanly to look out for women.

...Well, technically women.

So, making himself comfortable, he sat on the ground in his new attire and began to pick the leaves off daisys, waiting for the return of his female crewmate.

As Pach reared up to attack, he manically dived for Ginger (lord knows why anyone would want to touch him), luckily Aidan used his superhuman powers (Well, not superhuman, more like super-oscure-so-nobody-pays-attention-powers) to get behind Pach...

...And grabbed his tie.

Obviously he didn't like this, so Pach was fiercely resisting Aidan trying to tighten his tie so much it would suffocate him.

"I bloody hope I don't have to walk the plank for mutiny after this!" Aidan shouted. "Little help?!"

Suddenly, Lokki reacted and took off one of his socks and jammed it into Pach's mouth.

"Yeah, let's see you try to bite anyone now!" Lokki smirked. The fumes were starting to slow Pach down too. However, the victory was short-lived as The Count was gearing up for an attack. Aidan grabbed Pach's now inactive hand, and pointed out the index finger, and Pach's brilliant finger power (Or whatever you want to call it) forced the Count to hiss and retreat back into the shadows at the other end of the room.

"...This is the most ridiculous...thing to ever happen anywhere." Aidan sighed and whacked Pach's head off a bookcase and left him gagged with Lokki's smelly sock in his mouth on the floor as everyone else prepared for the Counts next move.

A while later, Trudi had left from her meeting with Dettol quite excitedly. Clutching something in her arms, she ran back to THS.

"CAN YOU READ?!"
"...what?"
"CAN YOU READ?!"
"You mean you can't?"
"NO"
"Quieten down will you" he held his head, as a headache was starting to come on. "What do you want me to read?"

"This" she dropped a massive thick leather bound book in his lap.

"What on earth..."
"Go on then!"
"What now?"
"Yeah"

He opened the book and squinted at it for the moment. "I don't understand a word in here"

"Probably Romany then" she shrugged.

"I can't read a language I don't know!"
"You can read it out and I'll understand it"
"I don't know how the hell you're supposed to read it out"
"Just do it"
"Later"

Trudi looked annoyed.

"Let's put it back on the ship shall we?" THS suggested, picking himself up and heading back to the ship. "Then we can do something about them lot in the mansion"

"But the mansion's so booooooring"
"Well what else were we going to do?"
"Pillage!"
"Uh... kay."
"Um... keep that a secret wouldn't you"
"What, the book?"
"Yeah"
"You'd better hide it then hadn't you" he passed the book back.

He waited outside as she hid the book in the ship, and as she came back he noticed something different.

"You got a new sword?"

"No, silly!" She unsheathed it, and it still had the familiar chinks and inscription down the side.

"Handle looked different is all. Notice something different about me?"

She squinted at him, and he even twirled to show of his new garments. After a good five minutes, she finally gasped and clapped her hands together.

"I know! You got your fur dyed!"

THS scowled. "No."

"I don't know then"
"It's a new outfit!"

She stared at him for a while, before finally screaching in delight. "OH YEAH!"

"Talking of swords..." THS climbed onto the ship, and Trudi followed. Trudi was a sort of followy person. And even someone as generally incompitent as THS seemed very intelligent compared to her. Poor girl. Poor crew who have to cope with her o.o

She watched him as he foraged through various areas, under people's hammocks and beds, even Pach's cabin, which is where he found what he was after.

"How old is this thing you reckon?"
"I dunno"
"It was a rhetorical question"
"What's rhetorical?"
"Where you're not supposed to answer it"
"Oh"

He clipped the scabbard and sword at his waist. "I'm only borrowing it you know"
"For how long?"
"Perminantly" he shrugged. He then laiden his pockets with bottles of rum and they set off again into the town.

OOC: I'm getting ahead of Pach's part of the story here! Basically they're supposed to get back into the town around when the others finish in the mansion. So no more action from this side until they catch up.

Also that sword isn't Pach's, it's one of Fishears' old ones.

Tiankai flicked her gaze between the shadowy menace of the Count and the more solid menace of his two armour-creatures. Which should she concentrate on? If the suits of armour were merely pawns, doing the Count's bidding, then obviously taking out the Count would solve the problem. But if there were actually living creatures (or maybe unusually large zombies) inside the armour then clearly they needed attending to.

Remembering what she'd heard some of the others say about Lokki, she called over to him, "you got anything in your pockets that could help us right now?"
"Like what exactly?" Lokki called back.
"Silver, garlic, a sharp wooden stake, a jar of holy water, things like that," Tiankai informed him.
"My dear girl," Lokki replied, "why in the world would I carry things like those in my pockets?"
"Why in the world would you carry a 100-foot carrot in your pockets?" Tiankai shot back, "for pity's sake work with me here and at least take a rummage!"

Whilst this exchange was going on, the Count decided to move at insane speed again. He blurred into motion, heading straight for Aidan. Gingerbread, who had seen the count suddenly disappear, decided it was everyone for themselves and tried to dive for cover. Turning, he took a step,tripped over Pach and went sprawling. This was more effective than anyone would have anticipated however, as he landed right in the path of the Count, tripping him over as well. Gingerbread opened his eye to find himself staring straight at the Count's tonsils. "Take th' fangs away from me quick!" he half-slurred half-shouted.

As the rest of the remaining crew dashed over to aid Gingerbread, which they seemed to think consisted mainly of all piling on top of the Count, Lokki drew something from his pocket. "Aha!" he cried, "I do appear to have availed myself of some silver nitrate at some point. Do you think this would work?" he asked Tiankai.
"I've no idea!" Tiankai called back, "just sprinkle the Count with it and see if he explodes or something!" Whilst Lokki raced over to the fallen Count calling out "gangway chaps, scientific experiment in progress," Tiankai turned to look at the armour creatures. They were still moving, and getting uncomfortably close. That could simply mean that they needed to destroy or incapacitate the Count, or that the things needed to be dealt with as well as the Count. She wasn't sure which, but she had to do something.

Noticing that Aidan wasn't having much luck piling on the Count Tiankai called him over. "I think I'm going to need your help distracting these things," she said gesturing to the armour-creatures, which by now were closer than ever. Aidan nodded, his mace at the ready. Looking over her shoulder Tiankai called to the others, "I hope that silver nitrate works, or we're in a real pickle!" Then, looking back at the armour creatures, drew her swords. Glancing at Aidan she said,"ready?" Aidan nodded again. Tiankai adopted her cold smile again and said, "then let's dance!"

Lokki raced forwards, precariously holding the quite randomly and stupidly found silver nitrate in his hand, as his allies jumped backwards to give him room. The count was open and, at that, he threw the silver nitrate towards Bradon.

He seriously underestimated his speed.

As soon as the Count was freed, he vanished, his body blurring before disappearing as it entered unimaginable speeds and avoided the nitrate. It was lost.

The count reformed behind Lokki. You insolent pups must be removed completely! Just as he was about to strike, a swift arm moving out from within his cloak aimed towards the back of Lokkis neck, the Counts cloak was grabbed and tugged backwards, stopping him. Before the Count could react, he was thrown backwards, crashing into one of his many bookshelves after being thrown by the grabber. Lokki gasped as he saw whom his helper was.

It was Pach, who seemed animated once more. But that was practically impossible, Aidan had just knocked him unconscious, so how? Regardless, he still seemed lost and out of sorts. His eyes were still white and his teeth gritted in a twisted snarl. Yet now he was helping the A&Wers?

Yarr, Brandon, end this foolishness at once! Fishears said, hovering in the air as he surveyed the fight below. Weve just come for the artefacts to get through the Gredalst Gate.

Brandon stared back towards the ghost. Fishears? What the hell are you talking about? I dont have those damned artefacts.

Fishears stared back at the Count with a confused expression. What?

Those artefacts did this to me! They slowly changed me into this monster just by being near them, trying to protect the damn things why on Earth would I desire to steal them?! Brandon hissed, picking himself off the ground. Ive changed into this monstrosity over the last few days those god forbidden artefacts are cursed!

Fishears frowned. This meant that his intel was wrong, didnt it? Brandon never had the artefacts, so he was innocent? Had Sarah been lying then? No Fishears and her went back years. He knew she could be trusted. So that meant that she was either wrong, or

Regardless, Brandon once again dived forwards, but this time charged towards Fishears. Quite foolishly, it appeared he had not realised Fishears was a ghost, and instead, passed right through him and crashed into the ceiling above. The group were simply stunned as they looked up. Fishears hovered up through the gap.

He saw Brandon simply stunned, looking around at the room they were in. The floor was littered with bodies, bloodied and pale blue. They were all dead, with missing limbs and faces contorted in pain. Brandon stared in disbelief. M-my servants y-you did all t-this? You k-killed my servants?!

Fishears inspected the room as well. It was one they hadnt been in.

No we hadnt even been in here. But, we did see some of your people, Brandon. They were already like this. Fishears replied. They had turned into well, zombies.

Brandon frowned in defiance. What?!

We need to pass through Gredalst Gate, Brandon. I talked to Sarah, she had said the artefacts were stolen by yourself. Even this other man, Bastian, confirmed that. I dont know what happened to these people, but Fishears began.

Bastian? Count Brandon repeated.

Fishears was surprised, but then nodded. I dont remember seeing him before when I last came to this island. But he was a peculiar individual nonetheless led us here past peril and peril

That murdering traitor! Brandon shouted, rising up, and looking around the room, determining the best way of progressing.

Brandon? Fishears asked, confused.

Fishears, you are a fool! We may have had our disagreements when we were here before, but regardless you thought I would booby trap my own mansion?! Brandon shouted. Bastian he has done all of this! Killed my servants twisted my mansion stole those artefacts completed my transformation into this monster!!!

Youre sure? Fishears asked, unconvinced.

You things all those attempts you were apparently almost killed, a coincidence? He must be found! Count Brandon replied, disappearing. He reappeared a second later, besides the door in the room, swiftly opened it and vanished in the corridors beyond, searching for the mysterious individual named Bastian.

Fishears floated into the room below, where they originally encountered Brandon. Tiankai and Aidan had managed to fend off the knights, along with Lokki and Gingerbeard and a twisted Pach. The knights were hollow inside, held together by some sort of strange power.

Yarr, twould appear that olBrandon isnt our enemy after all Fishears murmured.

Aye, we heard. Lokki replied. Always thought that Bastian was a bit of a strange lad.

We must find him and retrieve those artefacts! Aidan added.

He couldnt have gotten too far, could he? Tiankai asked, as the group pondered which direction to take to find the elusive madman.

"Man, this place is huge, it could take forever to find Bastian in this death house". Aidan pondered.

"How about we split up and search for him then?" Tiankai suggested.

"Best not to. If he's as dangerous as Brandon, we'd need to be all together to increase our chance of success against Bastian" lokki interrupted. The group was now at a loss as to what to do.

Aidan turned his attention to Pach, who was was just standing their rather oddly. He waved his hand in front of his eyes, but no reaction. He slowly removed Lokki's sock from his mouth, and again, no reaction.

"This is yours, I believe..." Aidan handed the somewhat damp sock back to lokki.

"Yeah, cheers..." Lokki said, and proceeded to stuff it into his pocket.

"Well, I'm guessin' we could alway's take tha' cart back up..." Ginger suggested, much to the disdain of everyone else.

"Let's try this door then." Tiankai took the iniative and opened the nearest door. Unfortunately, the door contained a handful of zombies.

"BAD" Aidan grabbed the shotgun (We still have this?) And whacked them with the butt of the gun and closing the door.

"...Next one?"

Peeking through the next door, Aidan could only make out what looked like...tigers?!

"The hell?! This place is like a screwed up circus." Aidan continued. "Right, next one."

Upon seeing no sharks, tigers, zombies, badgers or anything else living, Aidan opened the door and waved everyone through, Pach sort of drifted behind everyone.

They found themselves in a room with a spiral staircase going down, similar to the one they had been in earlier is the sharks and rising water, however, there appeared to be no danger of that happening again. As everyone got inside the room and began to descend...

Click!

Everyone looked up to see what had made that sound, and who would have guessed it, the ceiling, covered in spikes, was starting to descend.

"THIS ISN'T BLOODY FUNNY ANYMORE!" Aidan shouted. "RUUUN!"

OOC: wow forgot this thign existed for a god week. and lmao @ me in picture.

is it too late for to pop back in? like a lonely fetus?

- OOC -
NO! TOO LATE! NO MORE LATE JOINERS! BEGONE! YOU HAVE WASTED YOUR OWN TIME!

The group of pirates started running for their lives down the spiral staircase. However, Lokki caught a glimpse of something out of the corner of his eye and stopped to see what it was. It was a lever protruding from the wall. Beside it was a plaque in which the words

"Super jovial gay descent!" exclaimed Lokki with joy, while pulling the lever down. There was a loud, mechanical clunk and the spikes stopped descending. Everyone stopped their egress and looked around in bafflement. All of a sudden, the spikes started dropping at even faster rate, as though they were in free fall. The group ran.

"You fool!" yelled Aiden. "What have you done?"

However, just as Aiden finished speaking, there was a whirring of gears and the steps suddenly realigned themselves to form a smooth, marble slide. Some lost their footing and tumbled down haphazardly; others were able to maintain enough balance to sit down and slide on their buttocks.

"Wheeeeeeeeeeeee!" yelled Lokki.

"Aaaaaaaaaarrrggh!" screamed Gingerbread as he tumbled past.

Eventually, the pirates were ejaculated violently from the end of the helter-skelter just as the spiked ceiling hit the bottom of the stairwell, where it would have surely crushed any still on the slide.

The group were thrown into a large, wide room with a black and white chequered marble floor. The only illumination came from two flickering torches either side of the entrance. The room stretched on into blackness, making it impossible to see any of the other walls or the ceiling.

OOC: To reclarify what was said in chat, Geo, you can of course rejoin. It wasnt like you ever left, anyway. O.o

Pregga, your post was uncalled for and nonsensical. Please dont do it again.

IC: The group looked onwards, desperately peering to see if they could spot an ending to the room, but to no avail. It simply seemed to sink into darkness. Lokki tapped the marble floor, which was decorated in a white and black chequered pattern. What do you think this rooms for? He asked. The group merely shrugged, and uneasily began walking forwards, investigating.

Dont stray too far from one another, Fishears cautioned. This mansion isnt what it appears to be, yknow. The rest of the group just gave Fishears one of those looks, saying, yeah, you think?

The ground suddenly quaked. The group vibrated in tune with the rumbling, before the shaking ended. The group simply looked around at one another, sceptical. The ground quaked again. It wasnt necessarily violent quakes as such it gave the impression that whatever the cause of it was, it wasnt in this particular room but rather, nearby. On the other hand, it wasnt too far away as the intensifying vibrations indicated.

What thee heck be causing tha? Gingerbeard asked. Suddenly, there was a loud explosion from behind them. The group all turned. Above them was a cave in, of where the roof of the room must have been, and a large hole now implanted into it. The hole was creating by what appeared to be a figure bursting through it Count Brandon! Brandon crashed to the ground, and skidded along the marble edge.

The heck?? The group asked. Fishears frowned, as he assessed the situation. It seemed less like Brandon had purposefully burst into the room, but rather he was thrown in?

Tsk, you couldnt have stayed melancholic a little bit longer? >=/ came a familiar voice, whose tone was less cherry than usual. The group looked up to the hole in the roof, where they could see a silhouette before them, which was blackened out against the image of a full moon behind it. Tsk, I was almost ready to finally leave this dump Id have thought you people would have killed each other first

Bastian! Fishears shouted, pointing an accusing finger to the silhouetted individual. Youre behind all this!

Well duh, Bastian said, as he crouched down to sit by the hole, peering down at the group below. You people dont catch on very quick, huh? =/

You took the Artefacts, that we need to get through the Gredalst Gate! Fishears shouted.

Uh huh! ^_^ Bastian replied.

And you you transformed all of my servants into those monsters. Those twisted beings, you murderer! Brandon also shouted, as he picked himself off the floor.

Yup! Bastian confirmed, nodding quite eagerly. They werent the only ones I transformed, tho.

Brandon and Fishears, as well as the rest of the group, had a puzzled expression on their faces. I transformed you as well, Brandon. =)

W-what?!

Oh cmon, you didnt really think your condition was an after effect of being near the artefacts? Thatd be silly. Your entire condition is because of me. Youre degenerating wasting away this brief bout of strength is only temporary. You will die soon. Bastian said, his tone more serious than ever before.

Why did you steal the artefacts? What is this all about?! Fishears angrily inquired.

Money. Brandon interjected. This entire thing was an attempt to get at my estate and simply be rich.

Oh hoh! Youre smarter than you look! =) Bastian replied. But its not just that. Well, the estate bit is but not the artefacts. Not that Id doubt theyd sell for a pretty penny, buuuuuuuuut

These things were built by the gods, or so theyre rumoured. Bastian explained. Theyre valuable, but again, I stress that they were built by the GODS. Who knows what power lurks inside it? Power that I want. >=)

Madman Fishears muttered.

It was all a very careful plan indeed. All this time, waiting for Brandon to finally pop his clogs whilst testing my serum on him, and the servants and guaranteeing that Brandons will would leave everything on this estate to me Bastian explained. And it also makes it nice and simple to explain the disappearance of the artefacts.

Bastian reached behind himself, and pulled out two spherical objects, one in each hand, sizeable enough to comfortably fit in each. One glowed bright blue, the other a bloody red. The insane Brandon having stolen the artefacts, and their mysterious disappearance with the death of the Lord and all of his servants other than me, of course. With such an explanation, none would question the disappearance of the artefacts ever again, and the worth of this manor would belong to me. =)

But! >=( Bastian interjected. You sodding pirates had to come along, didnt you? The plan had to change. =/ I tried my best to kill you all with the former servants of this manor and the traps I had built into it, but it seemed you just wouldnt quit. It was also a good idea to pit you against Brandon himself, test the worth of the serum I injected him with, and would make an even better scapegoat for the disappearance of the artefacts if you two had already killed each other by then.

But no. You pirates continue on surviving do you realise how frustrating this is?

So! Time to cut my losses. Bastian turned, and looked outside. Ive had enough with fighting against you meddlesome kiddies. Ill cut my losses here and simply ignore the manor. The artefacts, are of course, the real prize.

What makes you think well just let you escape?! Tiankai shouted.

Bah. Bastian muttered. Because the room youre in is that of my greatest trap. There is no escape.

The room began to quietly shake, before building in intensity as it had done before. The chequered pattern of white and black squares changed. It flashed, and the chequered patterns disappeared, so that seemingly random squares were white and others were black, there was no pattern. Once this had finished, the black squares suddenly shot up. Towers rose up, and connected to the ceiling, whilst the white squares remained on the ground. A seeming maze was formed. The group, who were fortunate enough to have been still standing on a white square, could now barely see Bastians silhouette.

I guess its too much to expect that you people will actually die here, so that I could inherit the manor but at any rate, it is a good opportunity to waste your time, whilst I take my leave. Adieu. Bastian disappeared in the hole.

What do we do? Lokki asked, as he surveyed the narrowed surroundings. Its like a bloody maze, now!

I guess we make our way out of it? Aidan replied.

Yarr, sort yeselves out, laddies. Ill pursue Bastian. Fishears commanded. The group looked to him for explanation. Being a ghost, I can get out of here easily and follow him without any problems. Ill track him down.

But how are you going to stop him? Tiankai asked. You cant touch anything!

Just worry about yourselves for now! Fishears said, before darting off in pursuit of Bastian, leaving the room.

So which way do we go? Aidan asked, the only light available to them being the moonlight shining through the hole above.

OOC: The final battle of this storyarc begins. Basically, the group just need to navigate their way out of the maze they're stuck in... but is it as simple as that? Gogogo A&Wers!

Tiankai gazed around at the towers of black stone that had formed a maze around them. It could take hours to figure out a way through. And there was certainly no going back. The moonlight shining down through the hole Brandon and Bastian had made caught her attention. Was there a way up and out? "Hang on everyone, I'm going to try something," she announced and launched herself towards the nearest tower of black stone.

A minute later, after performing a series of complex leaps from tower to tower and clinging on with her claws, Tiankai emerged through the hole in the ceiling. "Any luck dear girl?" Lokki called from below.
"Give me a moment and I'll tell you," Tiankai called back. Having said this she swept her gaze around the room. The room was large and spacious, and mercifully bereft of any threat to life or limb. It also contained two sets of doors, one hole in the ceiling, a window and of course, a hole in the floor. One set of doors however, was almost completely blocked by a large heap of rubble. Tiankai walked over to the other set of doors and opened it. A seemingly endless corridor stretched before her, with doors lining either wall. Tiankai closed the doors again. She walked back to the edge of the hole.

"Sorry guys," she called down, "this room's a no-go. One set of doors is blocked, and the other leads into another of those infernal corridors".
"What about the hole the moon's shining in through?" Aidan called up. "It's too high for me to reach from here, let alone any of you," Tiankai informed him.
"Isn't there a window or something?" Lokki called again. "Hold on a sec," Tiankai replied and went to take a look at the window. Close up, she could see that the window was easy to open. What she could also see however, was that there was a sheer drop out the window, and that the outside walls were covered in a kind of vine that looked horribly familiar. "No luck," She called down to Lokki, "it's a sheer drop out this window and the wall's covered in those vines. Even if we worked together I doubt we could climb down the wall and fend off the creepers at the same time".

She was about to leave the window when something else caught her eye. "Wait a second!" she exclaimed, "it looks as if-yes! There's a door not far from here. And what's more-," she raced back to the edge of the hole and peered down, "it's at the other end of the maze! All you have to do is make it through the maze and you're out of the mansion!"

"Easier said than done," Lokki called up, "we haven't the faintest idea where to begin!"
"Maybe not," Tiankai called back, leaping to the top of a tower that stopped where the maze ceiling had been, "but I do! I'll bet Bastian never counted on one of us making it up here! I can guide you from this vantage point!" This said she began to issue directions:
"Lokki- can you take Pach in hand? Good; go three paces to your right. Aidan, you and Gingerbread go one pace forward, two paces to your left. Lokki, you need to go five paces forward now- don't forget Pach! Aidan, you should now go..."

After ten minutes of this, the A&W pirates were almost at the heart of the maze. Then suddenly Tiankai felt her precarious perch start to vibrate. "Heads up everyone!" she called as she leapt for the relative safety of the room above, "the towers are about to shift again!" Everyone immediately scrambled for the safety of a white square. Seconds later, when Tiankai looked down again, the maze was almost unrecognisable. "Don't worry!" she called as she found herself a new perch, "it's not as bad as it seems. I can still guide you out. It'll just take a little longer is all".
"Any other good news?" queried a somewhat disgruntled Aidan. Tiankai was about to reply when her ears picked up a sound like running water. Looking around she soon spotted streams of a clear, colourless liquid flowing in from the four corners of the room. Shortly after that she heard a hissing sound as the liquid made contact with the towers.

"Hate to tell you this," she answered, "but some liquid that eats away at solid stone's just started flowing into the maze! You need to get out of there quick!" With that said she started snapping out instructions at twice the speed. Shortly after this she made two important realisations: Firstly, she hadn't planned any escape route for herself and secondly, she could hear the wind she'd heard earlier on that night steadily getting closer...

"You know, this isn't too bad!" Aidan shouted over the sound of the rising liquid stuff.

"What?! What part of this isn't bad?!" Looki replied as they continued fumbling around the walls of the maze.

"I mean, I figured when I saw the cheqeured floor some huge chess peices would appear and start attacking us or something stupid."

"Don' say things like tha'!" Ginger interrupted.

"Tiankai! Where ne--Woah!" Aidan was interrupted by the floor shaking and the black panels sinking, however, there was no time to take advantage of this, as the white panels now rose up and completely changed the layout again.

"Ungh. It doesn't get any better." Lokki moaned. "Which way now?" he shouted, obviously trying to get Tiankai's attention, but she didn't respond.

"Hellooooo?!" Again. No response.

"No time far' this!" Ginger said, and just darted around a corner, desperate to get out of the maze.

"I be knowin' what ye mean though matey..." Gingerbread grunted, darting around another corner at complete random. "At first I be thinkin' tha same as ye, bu' when they be startin' flashin' like tha', I be fearin' fer tha worst."

"Worse than giant cheesy chess pieces or acid filled mazes? What could you mean old chap?" Lokki enquired, raising an eyebrow at Ginger's desicision to take a third left in a row.

The feline felon's tail fluffed slightly as he replied with baited (and rummy) breath. "I thought it t'were a disco dance floor me lads...Arr, seabiscuits!" He cried, skidding to a scrabbly stop, as he realised he'd fled straight into a dead end.

Arrr, bollocks, this woul' be so much easier if'n I had me eye. I ain' no good wi' mazes. Or disco. Or chess.

I'm thirsty.

Tiankai didn't hear Aidan's call for directions. Her attention had been completely absorbed by the sound of the approaching wind. The multitude of murmuring voices were increasing in volume. Tiankai turned pale beneath her fur- which now stood on end- and her eyes dilated as her ears instinctively flattened against her skull. She knew this wind alright. Feng Hui! the single, terrified thought ran through her mind, Feng Hui was here! The dreadful memories, the old nightmares, long dormant in her subconcious began to stir restlessly. Before long she would hear the voice, the voice she longed and feared to hear most of all.

The stone tower starting to vibrate beneath her feet snapped her back to the present. She leapt once more to the safety of the room above as the maze changed it's layout yet again. When she looked back into the room she saw that the white squares were now raised up, and that her fellow crew-members had come to a dead end. Inwardly chastising herself for letting fear take her focus from her friends, Tiankai surveyed the new layout.

There was no way back they could take without running straight into the deadly liquid. There was no way forward. Looking beyond them, Tiankai saw that the door was just a matter of metres away. All they needed was a straight run and they could be there in seconds. Suddenly Tiankai remembered something. Who said they couldn't have that straight run?

Raising her voice, Tiankai called to the rest of the crew. "No more time to run around this maze," she told them, "just trust me and duck as low as you possibly can!"
"What for?" Aidan called back.
"There's no time to explain!" Tiankai answered, "Feng Hui is almost upon us! Just do as I say and duck!"

As the A&W crew ducked Tiankai unholstered her Heavy Pistol. She'd been hoping to save this for a special occasion, but desperate times called for desperate measures. She swiftly checked the number of shells still inside it. Seven. She could afford to sacrifice one then. Bringing her weapon to bear, Tiankai aimed straight for the tower directly in front of the crew, at approximatley what would've been head-height had any of them still been standing. As she took aim she heard a voice on the wind. "Shao Hu, Shao Hu," the voice called. Flattening her ears still further, Tiankai pulled the trigger.

There was a deafening roar as the Heavy Pistol fired, and seconds later a loud thud and a crunch, as the shot smashed it's way into the tower Tiankai had fired upon. Then, seconds later, there was a creaking noise and the tower began to plummet downwards like a felled tree, smashing other towers as it went. A cloud of choking dust and a thunderous crash went up as the thing hit the ground. Then, as the dust cleared, the crew looked up to see that the felled tower had formed a walkway over the deadly liquid and straight to the exit. "There's your way out," Tiankai called down to them, "now let's move!" This said she started leaping from pillar to pillar as fast as she could, finally landing on the shattered tower, and sprinting to the safety of the exit.

As the crew exited the mansion, Lokki asked, "what was that wind anyway?"
"Feng Hui," Tiankai replied and the crew noted the change in her voice. Her tones were now those of cold fear and fury, and her expression was bleak and savage. "Let's go find Bastian," she intoned, "and I swear if he's responsible for releasing Feng Hui into the depths of this island, he'll wish Brandon had finished him!"

OOC: My apologies once again for posting such a long post in such short order! Over to you guys now!

OOC: Some pretty genius writing here guys, well done. I originally had the idea for a chess board style trap as well once John mentioned the white and black chequered squares but thought that might be a bit clichd. At any rate, itd probably involve a battle against chess pieces or not so interesting movement of the characters across the board, and Im not sure whether that would have been too interesting or not.

Now, an important matter. Gem. You are DANGEROUSLY close to God Modding. Youve been steering towards it quite closely enough by having your character, Tiankai, seemingly amazing at a lot of stuff.

Case in point: her seeming superiority over Pach back on Creoland. Pach had been on the island for at least 10 days so he wasnt completely ignorant to the islands custom, yet you treated him as such. And now, you have a character that can seemingly shoot an entire building down. Thats too much. Tone the character down, please. I admit a lot of the case have shown some peculiar abilities (such as Lokkis pulling a giant carrot out of a pocket) but that was done for humours sake. It seems as though youre continually testing to see how far you can get away with GMing and its about time it stopped. So if possible, please tone Tiankai down.

That said, its time to carry on with the IC. The current storyline is about to end~

IC:
Fishears pursued the bouncing form of Bastian as they exited the giant room they had come from through the hole in the roof that had formed when Bastian had thrown Brandon into it. As it was, Bastian seemed completely oblivious of the pursuing ghost, as he traversed the perimeter of the manor, seemingly heading towards his escape route.

In time, Bastian had passed through the manors garden grounds and finally arrived at the residential graveyard. He stopped, treading on the ground covered in the falling leaves, passing numerous tombstones and graves that lined either side of him. There was the occasional corpse stretched out on the ground itself and several holes in graves where bodies had been removed, subjects of Bastians experiments. He was pausing for a rest.

Fishears floated through the air behind him at an incredible speed, before he saw Bastian stop. His eyes widened in surprise, before a smile formed across his transparent lips.

Bastian! This pursuit is over!! Fishears bellowed. Bastian turned around in surprise. he had not expected anyone to have escaped his trap so easily, but then breathed a sigh of relief. The ghost came to a sudden stop right in front of him. Bastian had assumed it to be Brandon.

Mr. Ghosty. =) How are you? Not helping your friends? =( How sad, theyd need it. Bastian commented.

I doubt it, those pups can take care of themselves. Yarggh, theyre better then you give them credit for. Fishears replied.

Oh, but I do give them credit! Ive seen them thwart my traps many a time, remember? Theyll probably survive but by then Ill be long gone. Bastian muttered.

I dont think so. This chase ends here. Fishears scowled.

And what can a ghost like you do, hmm? Bastian queried.

Im no ordinary ghost Fishears trailed off. Im one of the Five Great Pirate Captains Captain Fishears!!

Bastian paused, contemplating the name. A dawn of realization stretched across his face. W-wait youre Fishears? But that means!

A sudden flash of white engulfed the area.

22 minutes later

The graveyard was calm and quiet. Fishears hovered above the ground, slowly panting as if somewhat exhausted, whilst a motionless body stood below him. It was Bastian, and as it was, it was unclear where he ex-servant was unconscious or dead. Fishears suddenly heard a number of foot steps, and turned back, to see that the rest of the A&Wers; Pach, Aidan, Lokki, Tiankai and Gingerbeard, had finally arrived. They all seemed exhausted and worn out as well, as they had just been put in a great trial. Which, to be fair, they had.

What happened? Aidan asked.

I stopped him, like I told you I would. Fishears replied. Anyway, pick up the artefacts. Were done in this miserable place. Well regroup with the others in the town, finally have some rest and then set out in the morning.

Aidan knelt down and picked up the two artefacts besides Bastian. What do we do with him? And Pach? Aidan pointed to Pach over his shoulder, whom had still lost his senses. His eyes were white, and seemingly snarled every now and then.

Ill deal with him. A voice from above called out, and before the group could react, a figure had suddenly dropped down from the air, landing on the ground with a noticeable impact. The group stepped back, Count Brandon was in front of them.

Count Fishears began.

It appears I was mistaken, Fishears Brandon muttered. It was all the work of that usurper of my ranks. Brandon sighed. He joined as just another servant. The perfect servant in fact I had no idea of his own hidden agenda. That said, I didnt have time to consider it as I was falling ill before then. Hmph. Probably another of his deeds that transformed me into this monster.

Brandon turned to the A&Wers. And it seems I have to thank you for apprehending the villain who killed so many and twisted them for his own experiments. That, and it seems youll be bringing stability to the town now that you recovered the artefacts.

So it seems. Fishears replied. Dont be mistaken, however. Stopping Brandon was only a benefit of recovering the artefacts. By the way any chance of helping him? Fishears thumbed Pach.

Brandon inspected him. Im not sure, to be honest. Even Im unaware of the transformation of my body. I appear to have acquired vampirism qualities, but whether or not thats the case He might be fine soon, or he could remain like that. Im honestly not sure.

Nevermind then, Fishears replied. Well deal with it.

Brandon nodded. Did you kill Bastian?

Fishears shook his head from side to side. He hadnt.

Good. There exists the possibility then I can extract an antidote from him, for mine and your friends condition. That and Bastians fate should be mine to decide. Brandon explained. Ill mail you the antidote if I can.

How will you be able to find our ship? Aidan asked.

There are ways now. Please do me the favour of getting off my property. Brandon glared. At that, the A&Wers wasted no time in vacating the area.

Another 16 minutes had passed, and the crew returned to the main town. The sight before them was most unexpected.

There was another pirate group here. They were ransacking the town fortunately nothing was being set on fire or destroyed (rather, buildings were oddly being cleaned o.o). Nonetheless, this pirate crew were entering the buildings and thieving them of valuables.

Obviously the town was in an uproar.

Fishears!! came a shouting voice. Fishears turned to spot Sarah approaching him. Are these your people?! Weve got a non-aggression treaty act here!!

Yargh, these be not my crewmembers doing the pillaging! Fishears earnestly replied. But Ill put an end to it. Fishears winked.

OIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!!!!!!!! Fishears shouted, an ear piercing bellow that attracted the attention of everyone in the town. Whoever be the captain of ye pirates, show themselves! Ye have explainin tdo! Fishears commanded.

There was a breif silence. The group saw some pirates lean out from within doors or alleyways. Several whispered to one another.
"It's him!"
"It's Fishears!"
"So the stories are true?"

"Aye it is me!"
A large man appeared to the left of them. He was huge, almost 7 foot in height and wide to boot, with long thick dark hair. Something about him seemes familiar about him. Those eyes...
"My name is Captain Dettol, pirate captain of the mighty Mop And Bucket. I am well aware of who you are, Captain Fishears"

"Were yer aware of the treaty though?" Fishears scowled

"Aye, but my lads don't get out much. Besides, I wanted yer attention"

"Well you've got it" Fishears hissed. "What do you want"

"Ah've always wondered wha' it would be like" Dettol said airily, waving one of his massive hands, "to fight one of the great pirates. A childhood fantasy if yer will. Shame, with your current condition, but I'm still not underestimatin' yer."

"Well, I'm sure yer'll understand that we've got a schedule to keep" Fishears dismissed him and started down the road.

"Yer shouldn't underestimate me either" Dettol warned. "I thought yer might refuse, so ah'm sweetnin' the deal"

He whistled loudly, and suddenly dozens of pirates jumped out from verious parts of the town.

"If yer win, we'll give you some gold to have yer on yer way, then clear off" he nodded back to his vast crew, "but if we win, we'll destroy this town. Bit by bit. Yer'll also forfeit some gold of yours. It's a bet!"

Fishears ground his teeth together. Well, he would have. "What are ye playin' at?"

"I'm not the bad guy, Fishears!" Dettol began to backing away to join his crew, "but like ah said. Wanted to do this fer years"

Fishears opened his mouth to speak, but didn't get the chance to speak. For at that moment, a rather leggy brunette fury smashed into Dettol, knocking him to the floor. "LIAR! YOU SAID YOU'D GO!" she screached, punching him across the face.

THS dragged Trudi off him, then took her to the rest of the group.

"Nice outfit" Lokki nodded to THS, who looked rather smug for a moment.

"Aha! First blood is drawn, lads!" Dettol got up and laughed. "It seems the deal is set. Yer ready lads! CHARGE"

OOC: WOOHOO

THS sought to ask one of the crew what had happened while they were away from the mansion, knowing that, while he would be slightly jealous of the likely action the crew had been involved in, he was grateful to have had a rest. However, the rest had been cut short and the tales would have to wait, as it seemed now a large amount of peculiar smelling pirates were up for a scrap. A scrap seemingly initiated by the large man that had spoken to Trudi earlier.

Odd, but such things are a regularity in the life of a pirate. Backstabbing is part of the trade - this old captain knew from experience.

The captain knew a good brawl could only be had once warmed up. So, he turned to the smallest enemy pirate in view as the other A&Wers ran off to defend themselves from attack, and charged towards him. As the fox closed in and the small pirate's attention was drawn (With a visible degree of fear at his realisation), he drew his sword and lunged wildly, preparing for an overhead arc.

He realised the sword was rustier than he had first realised.

The pirate's defense against the blow, but with the weakened state of the attacking sword, it was enough - THS' newly found blade snapped in half, leaving only the handle and the sharpened remains of the base of the blade in his grasp. "...Ah."

He looked at the scrawny pirate to see menace scorched into his face. Instinctively worried, THS began to back away, only to trip over the length of his new coat and fell backwards to the ground. He made a mental note to have it taken up some time.

Meanwhile, he concerned himself with the current fight, and found the enemy's sword falling towards him. In a sudden moment of unprecedented skill on his part, the fox rolled out of the way of the blow, then, before the other pirate could react, leapt from the ground, circled the foe and grabbed him from behind, holding the sharp remains of the blade closely to his neck.

He spoke a single word. "Sword."

The pirate obliged for fear of his life, passing his blade over his soldier to THS, who promptly snatched it away. The fox then hit the pirate in the back of the head with the handle of the broken blade, knocking him unconcious, then dropped the remains.

He checked out the new sword. Polished to perfection. Excellent.

He leapt into the fray with another of the enemy pirates.

Trudi had dived headfirst into the fight, and was thoroughly enjoying it. She was cutting her foes down with... well, not effortlessly, but relatively easily. She used combinations of her sword, punches, kicks and throws to defeat her enemies, yet wasn't getting through them very quickly.

However, they were outnumbered roughly around 10 to 1.

This was either going to be a long fight or ending with a bang.

Of course the dilemma was that Fishears' crew didn't want to damage the town in any way. They knew about the treaty and were under strict orders from Fishears to keep destruction to a minimum. Dettol's crew seemed to care more about the dirt on their shirts than the state of the town.

And some, reassured by the greater numbers, were becoming complacent.

"You're not a natural fighter" Tiankai commented on Trudi, as she threw herself to the floor and span her legs around, dislodging the footing of all those around her.
"I practice a lot" Trudi grunted, and said nothing more. She was actually concentrating, which is a rare occasion which should be celebrated with gifts and fireworks O_O

Meanwhile Dettol just stood talking to Fishears. He could have been mistaken for not paying attention, but his hand stayed firmly grasping the hilt of his sword. he was fully aware of what was going on around him, and like many pirates had lightning reactions.

"Yer 'ave an unlikely crew, Fishears. I mean, a lawyer? Yer are probably the first ter do so. He doesn't look very healthy a' the moment mind... LADS, MAKE SURE VAMPIRE BOY DOESN'T BITE YER" he suddenly shouted, to the resounding responce of "Aye!"

OOC: Comeone everyone get in there

Aidan wasn't one for all out riots but having threw himself into the profession of pirate, there was little choice.

Oh well.

As a number of pirates charged in the general vicinity of Aidan. He got the shotgun he had slung onto his shoulders from the masion and started whacking the opposing pirates with the butt of the gun. Didn't seem like too much trouble..

With them writhing in pain on the floor, he walked further past the mob, until he noticed someone on a roof above him, they poured some sort of cleaning agent down on Aidan, but it was easily dodged, apart from a bit splashed on the end of Aidan's right arm.

"Right, I know we haven't had time for washing clothes the past few days, but isn't this taking it a bit too far?" Aidan enquired to the man on the roof.

"Not really!" The man boomed, "This is no ordinary cleaning agent! This is Cillit Boom!"

"Cillit...Boom?"

"YES!" He shouted. "BOOM! And the pirate is gone!"

"Are you...insane?" Aidan replied with the only rational question he could think of to this madman.

"FAR FROM IT!" He continued. (Does he ever stop shouting?) "I am First Mate Harry Scott! I serve the great Captain Dettol!" He then proceeded to dive down straight towards Aidan. He was quick to parry the dive and kicked him away towards the ground. First Mate Harry then got a bottle of cleaning agent out of his jacket and grinned.

"Cillit Boom doesn't just handle everyday cleaning! It can also be very flammable!" He laughed as he was trying to strike a match.

Aidan had to act quick, last thing he needed was the town to be engulfed in fire. Aidan charged at Harry, knocking him down and into some mud. Harry didn't get back up, the amount of dirt on him was his more important concern.

Aidan just shrugged, wiped off the Cillit Boom he had got on his jacket, and moved on to carry out more beatings.

Lokki stood calm in the face of the riot of pirates. His hands went instantly to the holsters holding his twin flintlock pistols. They were, conveniently, already loaded. Unfortunately, being flintlocks, they were extremely slow to reload. Lokki reckoned he had enough time for two more volleys after the first before he had to switch to melee.

"Six shots," he muttered under his breath. "I've got six shots."

There were two loud cracks of burning gunpowder in rapid succession as Lokki shot one of Dettol's cronies in both legs, crippling him.

Lokki hastily reloaded both pistols. The shots had caught the attetion of the Dettol's crew and they were now advancing towards him.

Two more shots. Another pirate took a bullet to the thigh, whilst his sword was torn from his grip by hot lead screaming through his hand.

More hasty reloading. "Curses!" The enemy pirates moved faster than Lokki had anticipated and a particularly large, brutish (yet curiously well-groomed) mook was bearing down on him. Lokki's arm shot out, pressing the pistol to his opponent's throat. Click. Misfire.

The brute lunged towards Lokki. Bang! Crotch shot! The enemy keeled over in agony as Lokki holstered both pistols after spinning them ostentatiously around his index fingers. Lokki booted one of his prior victims squarely in the chest, causing a row of pirates to fall like dominoes, as he unsheathed the sabre he had bought before arriving at Gredalst.

Lokki skillfully parried attacks from his left and from his right as he pushed forwards through the crowd towards his objective. On his way he grabbed a passing crewman in a chokehold and prised a large dagger from his hands. Lokki held this in his left hand, twirling through the crowd as he deflected blows from all sides with the two blades.

All of a sudden, he backed into another combattant. He spun on his heel to see the assailant and found himself face-to-face with Tiankai.

"Sorry there, ma'am," he apologised with bow (and two backwards thrusts into the stomachs of opportunistic attackers). "Having fun?"

"Yes, it's a change of pace at any rate," she replied as Lokki turned back towards the melee, simultaneously parrying three attacks with one deft stroke. He then ducked under a broken rum bottle swinging wildly towards him.

"Watch it, old chap!" declared Lokki, "Enemy's the other way."

"Hm? Oh, aye, t'anks lad!" replied Ginger, who then spun around, lost his balanced and crashed into a would-be attacker.

Presently, Lokki rolled under two more of Dettol's crew. Pach moved in to keep them occupied while Lokki leapt to his feet immediately behind Dettol. He thrust his sword arm forward, the tip just barely prodding the enemy Captain in the back of the neck.

Lokki spoke sternly, his usually pleasantries and flowery verbage conspicuously absent. "Call off your men. Now."

OOC: Sorry if it makes it sound like there are more pirates than there actually are. However, note that Lokki only actually took five mooks out of the fight, the others he just pushed back or avoided without actually finishing them off.

Back IC:

Meanwhile, a familiar figure appeared on the battlefield, drawn by the commotion.

"Dudes, whoa. What'd I miss?" asked Geo.

Dettol felt something slightly touching the back of his neck. He knew he was there, of course. He couldn't have become so advanced in his career of piracy without knowing a trick like that.

"This one of yer pets, Fishears?" he didn't make any move, which unnerved Lokki slightly, but he didn't let that faze him. "He's a good one"

Suddenly like a flash he withdrew his sword. There was the clash of metal against metal as the two swords met. They crossed, and Dettol pushed them together further until his face was inches away from Lokki's.

"Yer clever, I can tell that. Yer have experiance in many things. But not piracy"

"Well well well, you certainly like the sound of your own voice don't you" Lokki hissed, pushing back against the sword with surprising strength. They seemed to be evenly matched.

"Aye, and there's nothin' wrong with that" he suddenly pushed Lokki away, and they began to duel.

Neither side seemed to land any blows whatsoever, for Lokki was experianced with a rapier, but Dettol was just as experianced with a cutlass. They attacked, blocked, dodged, but nothing hit home.

Dettol's crew were starting to thin, some knocked out, some just freaking out about the stain forming on their shirts. About half of the remaining crew - those whom weren't directly dealing with some of Fishears' crew - began forming a protective circle around Lokki and Dettol. They sure weren't going to let and of the Dave's crew stab their captain in the back. Literally.

Dettol smirked as he guarded against another attack. "Yer not gettin' the last word here, lad"

"Well you certainly are not either"

"Lad, I think yer right there"

OOC: No... Pach is

[edit] Stumbling through the commotion, a straggly haired man with some serious 5 o'clock shadow emerged.

"NEVER FEAR! SUPERMAN IS HERE!" and with that, Geo stumbled on top of the nearest of Dettol's pirates. The pirate stumbled back and hit his head on a plantpot, knocking him out cold.
"Why thank you!" Geo told his non-existant adoring fans. "Hey, would you like to come to my room tonight for some... hot action?"

Geo stood up and scrubbed off his delishly handsome and suave figure.
"Surely you would not grace us with yoru precense without aiding in this epic struggle, old trouser leg?" Nuch asked the Gent as he was busy battling liek. A million of those pirate wankers.

"Ah, but you see, old chap, I am unarmed. I have but this poncho to protect myself with." Geo explained, pointing at his funny-smelling hippie poncho.

"Take my dagger then, chap! And have at thee!" Nuch shouted, passing Geo his holy dagger.

"Good plan! This knife will work perfectly!"

Geo walked over to a corner to hot knife some hash.

The rest of the pirates couldn't see what was going on with Lokki and Dettol. The opposing captain's pirates completely blocked the view.

"Right, I know how we can deal with this." Aidan whispered to the rest of his crew. "Let's get up on those rooftops and see what's going on up there, and if we can suprise them!"

Tiankai and Ginger scaled a hut and were ready to pounce if the situation arised, while the Dettol's crew were still staring inward at their Captain and Lokki. meanwhile, THS and Aidan scaled the roof of the tavern. Looking inside, Aidan could see the people in there weren't bothered about the riot ensuing outside (That includies Deck, who was enjoying some hearty alcohol). THS looked longing through the window at Deck's mighty fine glass of ale, but Aidan pulled him up so they could now see exactly what was going on in that inner circle. Trudi however, just jumped up and down trying to see over Dettol's gang of merry men.

Oh, and Geo took it upon himself to hide behind some bushes. I guess someone has to keep an eye on ground level.

Gredalst

Fishearss ghost was seemingly lying down on the ground, his finger lodged in his nose as he was picking boogers whilst he watched the battle unfold before him. He had to admit, he was certainly impressed he had picked well.

All of the crewmembers before him had certainly proved themselves, not only in recovering the artefacts and surviving the manor but also kicking the sh*t out of Dettols crew. He was particularly impressed with Lokki currently, who seemed to be holding Dettol back conveniently enough. He was a skilled individual, make no doubt about it. And it was also convenient in that he didnt have to actually get involved. He didnt want to reveal his ability just yet

The fight continued around them. The individual A&Wer crewmembers were defeating Dettols pirates all around them. Fishears laid his gaze on Pach, who was still in a trance like state. He certainly wasnt in a normal state of mind, but he also seemed to be involved in the fighting as well. He almost seemed to savagely defeat his opponents without remorse or consequence it was certainly out of character.

Fishears had an idea. It would probably be better if the Captain returned to normal now this situation was more akin to his speciality.

He floated up from the ground. He floated through the battlefield, past a number of Dettols men who futile tried to cut Fishears, their blades passing through his corporeal body. In moments, Fishears reached Pach, close enough to whisper. He passed his hand through Pachs back, and whispered into his ear words that couldnt be heard by anyone else.

Pachs eyes suddenly blinked, and his pupils returned. His senses seemingly returned to him, as he looked around, muttering what? where the hell am I? and such. He turned around and spotted Fishears looking back at him. He surveyed the area around, noticing the town Gredalst, and the fighting that had occurred between their pirate group and another. They werent in the manor anymore

These pirates are reckless rogues, Pach. Fishears spoke. Theyre trying to destroy this town.

What? But I thought you order our crew not to as well, so then- Pach began, still somewhat dazed.

This island has a non-aggression pact. This pirate group they dont care. They just want random chaos. Fishears replied.

What?! Pach shouted back.

Were trying to stop them. Fishears explained. This island and I are on good terms, so Im trying to maintain it, and well But before Fishears could finish, Pach had vanished. Fishears turned around, and spotted Pachs running body heading right to the circled mass of Dettols pirate group.

Oh dear.

HOLD IT!! The fox shouted, his finger outstretched as he jabbed a Dettol crewmember from behind, sending them flying into the circled gap. Some of the most nearby pirates turned, attempting to prevent Pach from interfering. TAKE THAT! another two finger jabs to either side, sending those whom had surrounded him flying in opposite directions. He had made an entrance into the circle and now walked into it, spotting the battle between Lokki and Dettol.

Hey! You! This ends, now! Pach shouted in a bellowing voice. This destruction ends now!

Dettol stopped momentarily and turned to look towards Pach. Lokki also urged restraint, waiting to see what would happen as the battle had paused. And who would you be?

This crews captain! Pach shouted back, pointing towards Dettol with a mightly finger.

Dettol paused, then laughed. Youre the lawyer fool, right? Pah. What right do you have to be the captain of a pirate crew? Youd only prevent them from engaging in real pirate actions. This is not a pirate crew, its a joke.

A sound of a sudden slice occurred. Dettol leaned forwards, in a somewhat daze. A trail of blood danced in the sky, before Dettol re-righted himself. He turned to look behind him, and saw Lokki looking at him, his face a stone gaze. He felt his back, it was bleeding from a slight gaze. He had managed to avoid it being a fatal wound, but it was still pretty serious. Lokkis weapon dripped with blood.

No honour? Dettol spoke aloud.

Im a pirate. And my captain told me to end this destruction. Lokki responded, again in what was a serious tone from before.

Dettol simply paused. He then laughed. Alrighty then, Ill let you have this battle. He walked away, seemingly undeterred from his wound, but it was no doubt nagging at him somewhat. His crew looked confused, but then understood. The battle as it was, was over. Get them some gold, he commanded some of his crew, whom boarded the ship to collect gold.

Yah, Fishears, youre truly what the rumours claim ye to be. This crew of yours is pretty interesting. My daughters in safe hands. Dettol muttered, before boarding his ship. Until next time!

The A&W crew stared in disbelief as the Dettol pirates boarded their ship, after they had given the A&Wers some gold (holding true to their word), and beginning to sail off. None of them thought the battle would end so easily.

Yarr, Im impressed by all of your abilities! Fishears said, as they watched the Dettol pirates begin to sail away. I think its about time we had some rest before we set sail in the morning

Hey guys, came a voice. The group looked into the air to see Goldstein flying to the ground, carrying a suitable collection of gold. I saw this pretty large ship, ysee, so I had myself a little look. Saw this nice collection of treasure so I thought why not.

Goldstein looked at the worn and weary group. Considering all theyd been through, the manor, and the battle with Dettol, it wasnt really surprising.

What the hell happened to you guys? Goldstein asked, a look of bafflement.

OOC: Wonderful posts by all there. That battle was quite exciting and brilliantly envisioned by you all. Well done.

Nows basically a breather session. None of you people ever seem to like this part but you can do some miscellaneous stuff and interact with each other. Someone may want to do a brief summary or w/e in response to Goldsteins question so people like Deck, Geo and Bat can understand what the hells going on but its up to you.

My next post should involve the crew moving off from the island and to their next location. I didnt want to add it now as this post would be massive but yeah. Allows a little breather time, some chars can get some new equipment, clothing or w/e. Its basically up to you to relax a while on Gredalst, before we tackle the Gredalst Gate in the morning after!

OOC: ACTIVITY GET!

IC:
Geo reached under his poncho to draw a fat, albeit terribly made, cigar. He lit it using a complex system of mirrors and pulleys, and then handed Nuch back his holy dagger. Which now had a resinous black substance ont he tip of it.

"So, mangs," Geo adressed the raiding party, "What took you so long in that damned mansion?"

"Also," The panchod pirate took a long drag on his cigar and blew it out threw his nose, " I really need a weapon, mang."

OOC: line removed! for CONTROVERY!

"Well, Geo...the world's a strange place, you'll probably need a weapon after what we just saw tonight." Aidan replied, then picking up his glass and drinking from it. "I mean, take that masion for example, full of zombies, vampires, mutant spiders...Wouldn't have expected to find that stuff when I was back on Espoir Gauche.

"You obviously don't get around much then." THS heartily chuckled and got back to his ale.

"True I guess, I've been studying navigation and geology for the past few years, doesn't leave much time for getting out in the world I guess." Aidan went on. "This is actually my first time out at sea..."

"No need for the life story matey." Deck interrupted and brought another round of drinks on one his distinguished trays.

Aidan just shrugged his shoulders. "So Pach, let me just check, you're not still a vampire are you?"

"A vampire? When the hell was I a vampire?" Pach was somewhat bemused.

Aidan shrugged his shoulders again."Ah, never mind then, just wanted to make sure I didn't need to hang garlic over my bed tonight or anything..."

As the sun began to rise up against the sky, and indeed on their next adventure, the group made their way to the ship. They needed sleep, even a little, so they all made their way to their beds.

Of course, Fishears didn't sleep. He was to wake them before noon so they could set off to Gredalst Gate.

Trudi and Tiankai shared their room, much to the distaste of them both. Tiankai liked to keep her belongings secret, as did Trudi. They had made an agreement, which was essentially "You don't ask, I don't ask"

Trudi ducked under her hammock to get to her chest of drawers, humming to herself. The drawers themselves were full of clothing, which was fair enough. On top of the drawers she placed her sword and belt and the like carefully, strapping it onto the drawer with an old belt.

Next to the sword was a medium sized black leather box. She unclipped the belt which held this to the drawers, then opened the box to check the contents. Reassured that everything was in place, she shut and secured it.

At that moment Tiankai walked in, and began to check over her own belongings, which included a large, rolled rug.

Trudi jumped up into her hammock and went to sleep almost immediatly.

She was going to fall out of the hammock when she woke, she always did. Usually with the colourful language she was known for.

Later she was going to start on that book.

OOC: I'm assuming it was still night, since vampires were still running around o.o

The evening of fight...

The A&W crew were sitting in a dark and seedy tavern nestled in a filthy back alley somewhere in the run down back streets of Gredalst, working their way steadily through round after round of celebratory drinks. Smoke of various kinds hung thick and heavy in the air as they gambled the spoils from the day's victory amongst themselves in a game of blackjack. Geo and Lokki between themselves had amassed the biggest pile of cash, though Pach was fairing admirably due to being the soberest among them, as was Goldstein, even if none of the other players could figure out how the hell he managed to hold his cards. Gingerbread had lost most of what he had bet, due to being too distracted by the pair of hookers he'd purchased with his share to pay attention to the game.

"A weapon, my good man?" said Lokki, taking a long, pensive drag from his spliff. "Why certainly, I suppose I could spare the dag-"

Lokki was interrupted by a burly, bearded man bursting through the tavern door, horned helm upon his head and mighty battleaxe brandished aloft. Bellowing an oath to Thor, the mighty Viking warrior charged into the inn and slew the bartender and several innocent bystanders with one sweeping axe-stroke.

Suddenly, the warrior gave out an anguished roar and clutched his chest, which bore a gaping wound which no-one had noticed until now. Struggling onwards, he dragged himself and his axe over to the A&Wer's table.

"Brave Geogwe," the warrior spoke, "I have journeyed hard across the plains and slain many a foe in my quest, but I fear my time is at an end. Please, take my axe and carry on my legacy, and may Odin's blessings be upon you always."

The Viking knelt down and held out his axe towards Geo, who took it from the warrior's hands.

"I'll feast with you... in Valhalla some day, my friend..." spoke the warrior with his dying breath, before crashing fowards onto the A&Wer's table.

OOC: Duly noted Pach & thanks for the warning.

IC: Tiankai walked slowly back onto the ship and into the room she shared with Trudi. Giving her belongings a quick once-over she slumped down onto the floor and stared up at the ceiling. She was not going to get to sleep tonight. It was perhaps just as well Trudi had fallen asleep so quickly, or she might've been kept awake for the rest of the night by Tiankai's eyes glimmering in the dark. Over and over in her head, Tiankai replayed the last moment's of their escape from Brandon's mansion.

The tower shouldn't have given way so easily. They should have all had to push together to topple it, which was exactly what Tiankai had expected to do. It was true her Heavy Pistol was powerful, but not so powerful that it could blast through solid stone. Her shot must have hit some faultline or other imperfection in the stone. Then there was the other matter, which concerned Tiankai more almost than finding the artefacts had.

Feng Hui. She hadn't expected to encounter that anywhere this side of the Gredalst Gate. It's presence had stirred up a lot of fearful and painful memories for her. She'd be lucky to get any nightmare-free sleep for a month now. The battle with Dettol's crew had allowed her to forget for an all too brief period of time, but now she had the remainder of the night to brood over her problems and no-one she could share them with. Well, no family anyway. So she did the only thing she felt able to do: She kept silent and stared out of the window, awaiting the coming of the new day...

OOC: Honestly, I go on holiday and you have a big brawl without me, nicely done by the way, enjoyed reading every minute of it. ;3

IC: Ginger blinked at the funky cadaver that had knocked over the pot. The cash pot that is, not Geo's personal stash, nor the one which had rendered one of Dettol's men unconcious, whom Aiden has adotpted as a mascot.

After a moment, he threw back his head and laughed, one of the hookers he'd been pawing yelping as his smouldering whiskers brushed against her skin. "Har! Har! HAR! I salute yea dead viking matey!" And with that, he quaffed more rum.

"Anyways.." He grinned, casually rolling the corpse of the table with his foot, because that's the sort of thing you pick up when you are a pirate, causing those sat opposite him to wince. "I guess it be time to be placin' me bet again. So.. uh." The ex-captain and current dead-weight looked flummoxed. It appears that with the ale and wenches and other vices, he'd spent his share of the gold.

Grumbling he plonked a sack down as his share. The artifacts. When and how the bloody hell did he get those?

"When and how the bloody hell did you get those?" Lokki enquired.

"Oh I nabbed 'em befer tha' nice set too we be havin' wit all o' dettol's lads. I just wanted ta' take a look at them voodooey things is all. I wus gonna give em' back when ye needed em, honest cap'n." This last bit to THS, whom he obviously still took as the captain, and Pach as the decoy.

"But, ah, iff'n one o' them is sorta' round, black, bou' tha size o' a pickl'd egg, could ye le' me be lookin' at it?"

"What for, ?" Geo asked.

"Er... politica' reasons?" Ginger tried lamely.

Gredalst Tavern

Unfortunately for Gingerbeard, neither one of the artefacts was the size of a pickled egg nor black. They were both a weighty size that fit snugly in a palm alike a bowling ball, one pulsing bright red and the other a cool blue. Pach frowned at Gingerbeard for taking the artefacts, then retrieved them himself, removing them from the playing field. Gingerbeard melancholically sighed, and the game continued.

In the end, the A&W pirates had lost. But it didnt matter, because they later stole their taken possessions just before they set sail without the other Gredalst locals who took part noticing.

Fishears, in a booming voice, commanded all to awaken at midday the next day. Drowsily, those who could woke up and met up with Fishears, the others being dragged to duty by Pach and Aidan. Yarr, we be about done here, methinks. We have the artefacts, time te make use of tem and get through that blasted gate.

Aye. I dont know about you guys but I dont quite fancy crashing again and being thrown on some island like Creoland again. Lokki remarked.

I dunno. Their mannerisms reminded me of you somewhat, Lokki. Deck muttered.

Eh wot? Lokki responded.

Set sail! Ships course- the Gredalst Gate!! Fishears commanded, responded by a hearty AYE from the ships crew, who all assumed their varied positions onboard the Dave and set sail. Slowly, the ship began to sail away from the Gredalst Port, but it eventually built up enough speed to continue going.

Hey, Fishears, Aidan spoke up, attracting the ghosts attention. Will we still be needing an antidote from Brandon? I mean, Pach seems normal, doesnt he?

Hmm Fishears pondered in return. Who can say even if he can come up with an antidote? Just be careful.

The atmosphere of the ship was relaxed the ships crew relieved that they managed to obtain the artefacts from the danger of the night before. Some were filled with trepidation about facing the stormy seas they fought before, whilst others simply went back to bed (lazy tossers).

Pach took this time to get to know his crew a bit better. After all, he had only been with this crew a matter of days, and didnt particularly know them very well certainly not to trust his life with, anyway, and that was darn right essential.

He knew Deck extremely well, however. Deck was one of the few whom he was comfortable enough to be around. The others intimidated him slightly.

He knew he could trust Lokki, however. Lokkis charismatic actions back at Gredalst was impressive. And he supposed he found a sense of support with Aidan, Tiankai and Gingerbeard, whom had stuck out with him in the manor (that said, Gingerbeard certainly creeped the hell out of Pach, the sole addition to the crew whom he hadnt been around to accept, despite being the captain and his queer attitude in him supporting THS more than any other of the crew was puzzling as well).

He spoke to Geo (well, tried to. Seriously, easier said than done) and also talked to Goldstein, who kept to himself and his rum. He saw Trudi trying to conduct some weird sort of experiment or whatever with THS trying to read a book, so, thinking them busy, didnt continue any further. He then went on and socialised with the other crewmembers

Time passed quickly.

The Gredalst Gate loomed before them.

The structure was large and magnificent. For Pach it was the first time witnessing such an unbelievable sight, and he was left dumbfounded. The two monuments either side of the entrance stretched on into the sky beyond the crews sight, lost in the wispy clouds above. The crew could see the arch extend from the two monuments over the entrance.

And the seas were as rough as ever.

Miniwhirpools formed at the base of the Gredalst Gate as the two currents of the Western Sea and the Central Sea met with one another. Waves crashed against each other and it was beginning to be a struggle for the crew to maintain their course. If things carried on as they were, their ship would surely be engulfed by the sea again.

How the hell do these artefacts work? THS called out over the cushing winds.

Yarr, simply hold them out in your hands! Fishears instructed. Pach retrieved the two artefacts, holding one in each palm of his hand, inspecting them, before raising them into the air. Yarr, it be like that!

then what? Tiankai asked, clearly not believing this would work.

Um. Fishears paused, trying to think. I dunno. Pray?

Does it have to be to whatever gods made this damn gate or can we pray to our own gods? Geo asked, leaning on his mighty huge ax that seemed so impossible to wield.

Yarr!

With that, the crew attempted to pray well. They werent exactly praying to whatever gods that they could pass and for the artefacts to work. They were praying just to bloody survive the sh*t theyd gotten themselves into for the second time. The ship suddenly got stuck inside a whirlpool, and as it began to swirl around it, it was heading to a likely death at the bottom.

The artefacts brightly shone.

The crew opened their eyes, and gasped in awe as the glowing artefacts left Pachs hands and floated upwards into the sky. Each one traced an glowing arc into the sky as they diverged to the two monuments surrounded the Gate, and suddenly, with great speed, blurred upwards beyond the clouds outside of their vision.

There was a pause, as the crew wondered if whether or not they had succeeded. Their questions were answered by a giant quake, the water shaking more than usual. Each of the monuments was glowing, one red, the other blue alike the artefacts before. The marble giants suddenly moved!

The arms that held onto their spears swung downwards, crashing against the sea, and suddenly it had become entirely calm! The whirlpool vanished, the crashing waves lowered in intensity and the ravenous seas that existed once before took and entirely different temperament now.

Whatever it was the crew had done, they had succeeded. Thank bloody hell they were actually still alive!

Thank bloody hell were still alive! Lokki shouted, sighing out loud and wiping his brow of sweat. I didnt believe wed make it at the end, chaps.

You and me both, Lok. Geo murmured.

The ship began slowly sailing through the tunnel, a light breeze blowing the ship on course.

Where do we go from here? Aidan asked. Being the ships navigator, it was pretty essential he actually knew where it was they had to go.

Pach reached into his pocket, and brought out the map he had been given from Fishears back on that fateful day in the tavern at Espoir Gauche.

Yarr, I do believe our next stop should be that city! Fishears said, his transparent hand falling on a location upon the map. The location, being called Vansted Vale. It was to be another days voyage before the crew would arrive.

A city? Deck repeated. So this place is bigger than all the other towns weve been to? Why head there?

Well, why not? To pillage and plunder of course! Fishears smirked.

Pillage and plunder?! Pach repeated, his tone more angered and enforced. His sense of justice remained, and although he was willing to captain this crew of ragtag misfits, it didnt extend to the notion that it should harm other innocents, through pillaging or plundering.

The remainder of the crew seemed more upbeat, however. This would be the first time theyd actually do something like that.

Eh, relax, Pach, mboy! OlFishears isnt as daft as ye may believe! Fishears shouted aloud. This city has a very awkward social system, ysee. The rich are rich, and the poor well, they might as well not even exist, yunderstand? The upperclass live like royalty whilst those in the slums its a battle just to survive a day.

and? Pach queried.

Its like that old folks tale of some silly beggar who stole from the rich and gave to the poor. Well only plunder those whom are rich and give a share to the poor. The rest will help finance our own journey. I mean, even you can see that theres no justice in a society like that, eh? Fishears explained.

Pach frowned. I suppose. Ill have to see for myself and as long as you only steal from the very richest.

Yarr, of course! What be the point in stealing small change? Fishears replied.

The crew continued sailing onwards.

Vansted Vale was the next location! But the crew still had a day to themselves before they would arrive

OOC: I was originally planning on including the arrival at Vale in this post but that would just make this post absolutely giant. Bare with me and interact with each other for a little bit longer until I can post our arrival.

The crew might encounter a certain familiar merchant, as well

"Pillaging and Plundering?!" Trudi ran out from the dark room in which she was previously based. Apparently she had heard their convosation somehow. "I've always wanted to try that!"

Pach and Fishears looked at the state of her. She looked like she had spilt something unpleasant down herself. Her face, on the other hand, was a picture of excitement.

"We'll see" Pach said reluctantly, watching as THS staggered out of the room coughing. "Gee what do you have in there?"

"Pee. It smells a bit!"

THS fainted breifly.

Trudi put her arms behind her back and jumped in front of Pach. "What would you like to improve in fights?"

Pach caught a wiff of whatever she had spilled down herself and choked. Finally, he managed to cough out "That sentance made no sense"

Trudi scowled. She was very expressionate, overexaggerating her facial expressions. She didn't seem to notice this. "When you're fighting, is there anything which would make you better at it"

Both pach and Fishears gave her an odd look. Of course, Trudi wasn't whispering. Such things didn't occur to her.

Why was she asking such odd questions?

"I'll show you!" Trudi shouted. "I'll show you how to fight good!"

Pach just look bemused.

"You!" She pointed at Aidan, who was busy eating a biscuit. He finished off his biscuit and wiped the crumbs from his face.

"...Me?" he inquired.

"You!" Trudi pointed again.

Not wanting to be shouted at anymore, he jumped down onto the main deck and straightened his jacket. "Fine...what do you want me to do now?"

By the time he had finished his sentence, Trudi had already leapt at Aidan, threw him down to the ground and pushed him away with her feet.

"...Not bad." Pach noted.

"See! You must learn to fight better! Like that!" Trudi proclaimed, while Aidan just rolled away.

"Owwwww..."

Ignoring the seeming randomness of Trudis actions, whereupon she first seemed to be asking Pach and Fishears for tips on how to fight, and then demonstrating to them against Aidan how to fight better, the ships captain and his advisor carried on their voyage to their next destination: Vansted Vale.

A day had passed.

The crew sailed cautiously towards Vansted Vales ports, eyeing the land carefully and in awe. They were wary to make sure there was no navy presence in such a large location as well as to just gawk at the magnificent citizenry. Luckily, and strangely enough for the crew, there was no navy presence at all, which was odd. As the ship sailed on, there was like a ripple effect in the air.

The crew all suddenly perked up as if feeling something new and yet it was such an inexplicable and short-lived feeling that it was quickly forgotten. Nonetheless, something changed but it was beyond the crews attention anymore. For them, nothing was no longer amiss.

Pach scratched the back of his neck. His head hurt somewhat, as if he had forgotten something important, but he shrugged as the group went on to make preparations for landing.

Put the sail away, first! We dont want the city to realise this is a pirate vessel! Pach commanded. There might not be any navy here but I couldnt believe a city like this doesnt have a militia. The crew all nodded, as they continued their landing procedure.

The city before them was certainly unique from what they had seen before. In front of them were several dilapidated terraced building. The houses were all worn and near the verge of falling apart and crumbling. Thatched roofs were bare in places. Walls and floors were stained brown. Weary and weathered people in ragged clothes walked about the area, their faces strained by hardships as they struggled to continue in a life of living. This area right next to the port was a slum, and as the crew could see, this type of housing continued across a great length of the city in a vast majority. The conditions of the inhabitants here was sickening

A distance away from the port was the location of raised land. In the centre of the city was a raised section of marvellous and magnificent architecture it was grandiose and beautiful. The crew could see all the way from their position building of solid gold building and other valuable building material. These buildings stretched on into the sky like giants, and this section of the city was surrounded by a gigantic, solid concrete wall 20 metres thick. Although it looked like dots to the crew from their position, there was also the frequent occurrence of several watchtowers across the wall where the entrances were protected by guards of the socially and wealthily well-off.

Such a stark contrast in lifestyles like this it proved exactly what Fishears had told them before.

So, its time to pillage and plunder, eh?! Trudi screamed in excitement.

Only those who are abusing their power and wealth! Pach instructed. He pointed a firm finger at Trudi to reaffirm what he was saying. And of what you steal, give some back to these people. The lives they must be leading are so hard this has to be sorted out. I wonder why the world government havent done anything about it

Most probably got their hands full with the threat of piracy, methinks Fishears interjected. And their own desires to find the treasure we pursue. Besides, they might be as corrupt as here, sooo

Pach frowned. He couldnt believe in that, after all the world government was what he had to rely on to ensure peace, civility and the guarantee of justice. What was happening here must have only been an isolated incident, and besides, he could try his bets to change what was going on here

At any rate, I think we should leave someone to guard the ship Aidan interjected. I mean, these people might mean well and all, but they might be too tempted by the possibility of our treasure, you know? Aidan pointed at the crowd of impoverished people who were staring at the Dave and its crew.

Good thinking. Pach replied. Goldstein, you think you can manage? Pach had turned to the goat.

Hey, I havent got a $3000 bounty on my head for nothing, b*tches. Dont worry about it. Goldstein replied, giving a thumbs up (for a goat whom didnt have thumbs, it was most certainly an awesome spectacle).

Pach jumped off the side of the ship, landing on the concrete below safely. Some of the crew followed his lead, some landing most certainly comfortable, and others crashing instead (well, I say others, I basically just mean Trudi 8O).

Lets investigate the richer society. Pach informed. You can do it in whatever groups you want just remember, give a bit of whatever to take back to this poorer populace.

The group half heartedly nodded. I should think getting through that wall would be tricky Lokki noted. And are those watchtowers? Lokki squinted. These people no dont have a military or some police power of some kind.

Mang, theres riches, so who cares? I blew up a building before so were all cool. Geo reassured.

Meet in the centre of the upper class society by 4pm, no matter what. Pach ordered.

How will we know the time? I havent got a watch. THS asked.

Can you see that clock tower? In the centre of the upper class society. Pach asked.

THS re-shifted his sunglass to get a better look. The highest building located within this city was a clock-tower, and it was essentially located in the centre of the city as well. Its architecture was magnificent and it was probably the grandest building in the entire city although, that said, it wasnt made out of gold like some others were. Yeah, I see it. Heck, I think well all be able to see it quite easily enough. THS replied.

The time was currently 1:45pm.

Once we meet up at four, well decide what to do next then. Pach commanded, receiving obliging nods from the crew. At that, they all started running forwards, to explore the slums and upper class society that was barricaded beyond!

Trudi dove straight into the slums without waiting for anyone else - it seemed to be some kind of trait of hers. She walked through all the muck in the streets without caring, which was somewhat dodgy. She had decided to go barefoot today.

She rubbed her hand against one of the buildings, and the brick just crumbled under her fingers.

"...lass? A penny for the poor?"

It was a young girl, only around 5 years old at a guess. She looked up at her, her clothes rags and her skin mucky, yet her eyes were full of hope.
She hadn't grown up yet, it seemed.

Trudi thought for a moment (although it would have taken a more intellectually normal person less time), then unclipped a heavy bangle off her ankle. She crouched down, then whispered "hide it from everyone".

The girl took the bangle like it was sacred. It wasn't a particularly fine item, made of wood and copper, but the girl was happy.

Trudi then ruined the moment by adding "loose it and I'll kill you"

Trudi was worryingly unfazed by the state of the people in the poor part of town, but that was most likely due to her just not grasping the severity of the situation.

So she just chatted with people.