Plotlogs
The Slaughterers Chalice Sr Kah 241129
In the thrilling tale of the Slaughterer's Chalice heist, a team of skilled adventurers undertakes a daring mission to retrieve a valuable ancient artifact from a lavishly guarded Italian villa. Amidst a bewitching Mediterranean landscape, the group, comprised of Elias, Victoria, Ash, Ceryn, and a mysterious bengal cat later revealed to be Lilian, embarks on their quest with a blend of magic, stealth, and strategy.
The journey begins with a covert approach to the villa, expertly navigating through secret tunnels and evading traps with the aid of their diverse skills and the magical prowess within their group. Elias's command over elemental forces brings forth a storm, obscuring their infiltration from the villa's security systems and guards. Meanwhile, Ceryn's connection with nature allows for creative obstructions against pursuers, and Ash's adeptness with lockpicking and stealth plays a crucial role in bypassing physical barriers.
The tension escalates as the team discovers the treasure room, where the Slaughterer's Chalice, a masterpiece of ancient glasswork, awaits them. However, the retrieval is far from simple. The group faces the challenge of extracting the artifact without triggering the deadly defenses surrounding it. With careful coordination, they manage to secure the cup, but not without drawing the attention of the villa's security forces.
In the heat of escape, the team showcases their combat prowess. Elias, enveloped in a merciless frost storm, decimates the approaching guards, leaving behind a chilling warning for any who dare challenge them. Victoria's precision and Lilian's debilitating magic further ensure their adversaries stand no chance, allowing for a swift exit through a magical pathway created by Ash.
Their return to safety is marked by a mix of relief and triumph. The Slaughterer's Chalice now in their possession, the adventurers reflect on their journey, the challenges surmounted, and the unlikely bonds formed. Lilian, having initially joined the group under mysterious circumstances, reveals her true identity, ingratiating herself with her newfound allies.
The story concludes not just with the successful acquisition of the artifact but with the emergence of a formidable team, each member's unique talents contributing to their collective victory. In the face of formidable defenses and the ever-looming threat of capture or worse, they've proven that unity and ingenuity can overcome even the most insurmountable obstacles.
(The Slaughterer's Chalice(SRKah):SRKah)
[Thu Nov 28 2024]
Before A Grand Italian Villa
Standing before a grand villa, you find yourself surrounded by a picturesque landscape that blends natural beauty with architectural elegance. The cobblestone street leading up to the villa is flanked by rows of ancient olive trees, their gnarled trunks and silvery leaves whispering in the gentle Mediterranean breeze. Colorful bougainvillea cascades over stone walls, adding vibrant splashes of pink and purple to the warm, earthy tones of the surrounding buildings. The air is filled with the subtle scent of citrus blossoms and the distant, rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the rocky shore.
The villa itself is a stunning example of Italian craftsmanship, with terracotta roofs, arched windows, and elegant balconies adorned with wrought iron railings. The faade is a harmonious blend of creamy stucco and exposed stone, giving it a timeless charm. Behind the villa, rolling hills covered in vineyards and dotted with cypress trees stretch towards the horizon, creating a serene backdrop that invites both relaxation and exploration. The entire scene is bathed in the soft, golden light of the Sardinian sun, creating an idyllic setting that captures the essence of Mediterranean beauty.
It is night, about 57F(13C) degrees, There is a new moon.
SRKah says "I believe we're just waiting on Ash and mayber Ceryn>"
Elias says "Correct "
SRKah says "Alright! Everyone can provide an entrance! Your arriving at the port of Cagliari the main import and export for the isle of Sardinia. From there you will be boarding a ferry to take you around the island's back shores. Once everyone has arrived I will get things a-going. "
"Finally, somewhere actually worth looking at," Victoria remarks with a sense of relief, stepping gracefully out of a swirling gust of air. She takes a moment to glance around, her eyes scanning the surroundings with a look of genuine appreciation, the corners of her lips curling into a slight smile.
On the docks right next to the boarding ramp to the ferry sits a cat. A rather pretty little bengal cat with grey leopard spots. It's tail flicks back and forth idly as it waits upon one of those tall wooden pillars people tie their boats to. Lilian(bengal) watched the proceeding of the dock with its sapphire eyes, following the people milling about.
Traversing the shadowy path of the dark forest, Elias takes the final steps on the path arriving at his destination. To the casual observer, it would just seem like the dark haired man appears from thin air. Hopefully though, there is no observers as he appears at the meeting point, presumably within the back alleys of the city. Letting his gray-blue eyes slowly drift around himself as he scans his surroundings, Elias's hand falls idly upon the hilt of his blade that is sheathed on his belt.
Ash dims their will o' wisps just as they arrive at the end of the Path, Ceryn in tow. They huddle with the others, surveying the compount before asking Elias in a soft voice, "How are we doing this? I don't think Ceryn can shift into anything small, and I'm actually stealthier on my feet than in bat form. If we go in hard, though, I'mma focus on pathing in for support than attacking, if it's the same to you. I'm better at a distance."
Ash is all business from the moment they step in, eyes narrowed and head on a swivel. They brought their sword this time, instead of the spear they've been 'keeping' for Kah, and a crossbow hangs from their hip instead of a rifle. A pink tongue flicks over plush brown lips, and hazel eyes - near gold - glance over Lilian(bengal) with suspicion.""
"Oh, easy. I am just going to just use a ritual so the mist is so heavy you won't be able to see your hand in front of your face and then even if people are poor at sneaking, largely the elements should be doing the bulk of the work... or least that is the theory isn't it? I am not sure if we can get the mists as dense here this far from the gates, but the principle should be the same still." Elias says to Ash as he rubs his chin thoughtfully, "Because doing this in broad daylight otherwise is going to be very challenging."
Ceryn keeps his eyes panning the area as he steps in aside Ash, hands dug into his pockets as he takes in the new environment. "I can't shift, not yet." He tacks on, "Just let me know what you want me to do and I'll put my hand in, if you want to be subtle it might be best I stick aside though."
Ash nods to Elias, before pointing out to Elias, "It's night."
Ceryn snaps his fingers at Elias, "Very smart, I didn't even consider that."
[OOC] This intel is written this way so I do not have to provide as many places to join.
As each of these Adventurers arrive this evening into the center of the city that acts as the main population hub for the isle of Sardinia, they'll make their way each in their own fashion to the port of Cagliari. Each has the time to make their way there from their chosen points of arrival. From there the ferry will take them out onto the water. The ride will take time, the minutes turning into hours as they cross the water - leaving them time to discuss their approach. Their destination is a small anchor point around the back coast of the island, close enough to the Villa to provide a good opportunity regardless of what tactics they choose to employ. A small informational packet comes along with their ride, the surly ferryman passing it to them without word and that's the last anyone will see of him! The packet doesn't contain the easy sheet for getting the job done but it has some information that may be helpful.
The walls of these tunnels are constructed from age-worn stone, their surfaces cool and slightly damp to the touch, exuding an ancient, almost mystical air. Flickering torches set in iron sconces line the passageways, casting an eerie, dancing light that creates elongated shadows on the walls. The air within is thick with the scent of earth and old stone, mingling with the faint aroma of burning torchwood. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of secrets, each twist and turn of the tunnels whispering tales of bygone eras and clandestine activities. As you make your way deeper into the labyrinth, there will be a path that splits into multiple directions, each tunnel marked by subtle, nearly indistinguishable signs known only to those familiar with the villa's secrets. The main passage branches off toward one direction, with smaller offshoots leading to rooms and alcoves where ancient artifacts and forgotten treasures are tucked away. These side chambers, some of which are accessible through heavy, creaky doors, house relics that span centuries; gilded relics, dusty manuscripts, and ornate chests filled with untold riches.
The tunnel leading to the guest house eventually open up into a small, dimly lit room. Here, you can find a cleverly disguised bookshelf that serves as an entrance and exit. You've been given a tip on which book to tilt, revealing a passage into the guest house's lower levels. This secret entrance provides a secure route for guests to come and go without drawing undue attention, ensuring their privacy and safety. The tunnel that leads to the main house is equally well-hidden. It terminates beneath the grand library, with an exit masked by a luxurious, intricately woven rug. By lifting the rug and pressing a concealed latch, a trapdoor is revealed, opening into a concealed stairwell that ascends into the heart of the villa. The library above is a picture of elegance and intellect, its shelves lined with leather-bound books and its walls adorned with classical artwork. This hidden entrance allows inhabitants of the main house to escape or access the tunnels quickly, should the need arise.
The intel for a more aggressive approach isn't a whole lot more fruitful but some information is better than none. The main villa boasts an extensive security setup that blends traditional methods with modern technology and even supernatural elements. Stout, stone walls surround the property, with wrought iron gates that are monitored by vigilant, well-trained guards who patrol the grounds day and night. These guards are equipped with advanced communication devices and surveillance tools, ensuring constant vigilance. High-tech security measures include a network of discreetly placed cameras and motion sensors that cover every corner of the estate, linked to a central monitoring room. Access to the villa is controlled through biometric scanners and encrypted keycards, ensuring only authorized individuals can enter. Additionally, the villa is equipped with an alarm system that instantly alerts the security team to any unauthorized breach.
Adding an extra layer of protection, the villa is rumored to be safeguarded by supernatural measures. Ancient runes and talismans are strategically placed throughout the property, believed to ward off intruders with ill intentions. Stories of ethereal guardians, spirits bound to protect the villa, circulate among the staff and add a mysterious aura to the estate's already formidable defenses. This combination of human, technological, and mystical security ensures the villa remains an impenetrable fortress. How much of this information is accurate is up for debate. Much of this can only be gleaned from conjecture and rumor as very few people have been able to get a prolonged look around the inside to gather more firm information.
Ash assumes that it's actuall day.
With a soft sigh, Victoria asks Elias the most obvious question. "Fur or no?"
SRKah says "It is day. "
SRKah says "Reposting for length issues! I didn't think it would be that long! "
[Repost] As each of these Adventurers arrive this evening into the center of the city that acts as the main population hub for the isle of Sardinia, they'll make their way each in their own fashion to the port of Cagliari. Each has the time to make their way there from their chosen points of arrival. From there the ferry will take them out onto the water. The ride will take time, the minutes turning into hours as they cross the water - leaving them time to discuss their approach. Their destination is a small anchor point around the back coast of the island, close enough to the Villa to provide a good opportunity regardless of what tactics they choose to employ. A small informational packet comes along with their ride, the surly ferryman passing it to them without word and that's the last anyone will see of him! The packet doesn't contain the easy sheet for getting the job done but it has some information that may be helpful.
The walls of these tunnels are constructed from age-worn stone, their surfaces cool and slightly damp to the touch, exuding an ancient, almost mystical air. Flickering torches set in iron sconces line the passageways, casting an eerie, dancing light that creates elongated shadows on the walls. The air within is thick with the scent of earth and old stone, mingling with the faint aroma of burning torchwood. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of secrets, each twist and turn of the tunnels whispering tales of bygone eras and clandestine activities. As you make your way deeper into the labyrinth, there will be a path that splits into multiple directions, each tunnel marked by subtle, nearly indistinguishable signs known only to those familiar with the villa's secrets. The main passage branches off toward one direction, with smaller offshoots leading to rooms and alcoves where ancient artifacts and forgotten treasures are tucked away. These side chambers, some of which are accessible through heavy, creaky doors, house relics that span centuries; gilded relics, dusty manuscripts, and ornate chests filled with untold riches.
[Repost] The tunnel leading to the guest house eventually open up into a small, dimly lit room. Here, you can find a cleverly disguised bookshelf that serves as an entrance and exit. You've been given a tip on which book to tilt, revealing a passage into the guest house's lower levels. This secret entrance provides a secure route for guests to come and go without drawing undue attention, ensuring their privacy and safety. The tunnel that leads to the main house is equally well-hidden. It terminates beneath the grand library, with an exit masked by a luxurious, intricately woven rug. By lifting the rug and pressing a concealed latch, a trapdoor is revealed, opening into a concealed stairwell that ascends into the heart of the villa. The library above is a picture of elegance and intellect, its shelves lined with leather-bound books and its walls adorned with classical artwork. This hidden entrance allows inhabitants of the main house to escape or access the tunnels quickly, should the need arise.
The intel for a more aggressive approach isn't a whole lot more fruitful but some information is better than none. The main villa boasts an extensive security setup that blends traditional methods with modern technology and even supernatural elements. Stout, stone walls surround the property, with wrought iron gates that are monitored by vigilant, well-trained guards who patrol the grounds day and night. These guards are equipped with advanced communication devices and surveillance tools, ensuring constant vigilance. High-tech security measures include a network of discreetly placed cameras and motion sensors that cover every corner of the estate, linked to a central monitoring room. Access to the villa is controlled through biometric scanners and encrypted keycards, ensuring only authorized individuals can enter. Additionally, the villa is equipped with an alarm system that instantly alerts the security team to any unauthorized breach.
[Repost] Adding an extra layer of protection, the villa is rumored to be safeguarded by supernatural measures. Ancient runes and talismans are strategically placed throughout the property, believed to ward off intruders with ill intentions. Stories of ethereal guardians, spirits bound to protect the villa, circulate among the staff and add a mysterious aura to the estate's already formidable defenses. This combination of human, technological, and mystical security ensures the villa remains an impenetrable fortress. How much of this information is accurate is up for debate. Much of this can only be gleaned from conjecture and rumor as very few people have been able to get a prolonged look around the inside to gather more firm information.
Lilian(bengal) continues to wait on the quay, its tail flicking idly from side to side as it waits to see who is planning to board the ferry to the island.
Lowering his voice as he looks upon the defenses, his own arcane senses likely tinging at the layers upon layers of wards placed on the home, most likely giving off a very palpable feel of magic radiating off of them, Elias grumbles, "Why didn't we bring the howitzers. James Bond would have a hard time getting into this place." Elias says as he sighs as he looks up towards the sky. Reaching up towards the sun with outstretched fingers, Elias clenches his fist, pulling his hand towards his chest. As he does this, clouds start forming overhead, nothing too dense at this point, leaving a question whether he is actually doing anything at all with his action.
or rather we are still inside, so Elias probably didn't do the last part there, but the complaints remain real.
As those who look to board the ferry come and go, Lilian(bengal) watching will denote Ash, Victoria, Elias and Ceryn that stand out a little bit from the rest of these that wait. When it's time the boat will arrive and those will board who are boarding. There are a few others taking the ferry ride, but they don't seem to be civilians or rather - not tourists. Crewmen probably, or similar they seem to know where they're going and what they're doing. This ride will take some time, and this is when someone will provide the intel package that outlines just how much of a job this might be! Still - the information seems pretty clear on one point. If you think you're going to get caught taking the sneaky approach? Don't. It's better to take the element of surprise on an assault then get caught in a tight spot. Some of the information remains ambiguous as well, concerning the overall defenses so it's hard to say exactly how much of it is in operation or even installed but the scouts forwarded to Italy in preperation assume caution over optimism given Sergio's reputation. Even that is vague, beyond most people on the island being afraid to so much as speak about him without permission.
Ash grumbles to Elias, drawling, "I wish Sienna was here... my illusions don't work on cameras. Well... except for face stealing. We have a coven of casters here, if you want to try overpowering the wards."
Lilian(bengal) hops onto the boat when it finally arrived, earning probably a nasty glance from some of the crewmen something about a black cat bringing bad luck on ships or something. There, it sinks down on its hunches as the clouds above shield the sun, its tail flicking back and forth as it waits for the group of interesting people to board.
Ceryn leans forward to glance aside to Ash, "I'm feeling pretty good compared to the ghost stuff." He notes, "Happy to help with any circles or offerings, just let me know, aye?" With a smile, he settles back aside them, eyes still content to take in the sights of a new, foreign land.
Ash smiles to Ceryn, asking quietly, "You've been eating your broccoli and liver, then?"
Watching silently as the cat hops onto the boat, Victoria's eyes narrow with suspicion. Shrugging a shoulder, she simply turns to Elias, waiting to see his thoughts.
Ceryn splays his hand across his chest, "I love liver." He replies, matter-of-factly.
"Well, I would say we could use a shadowcloak, but honestly, I would suspect that the cameras use nightvision lenses. Hrmmm. There has has to be a solution, there is always one...." Elias says to Ash before looking to Ceryn, "How advanced is your magic Ceryn? How much can you manipulate plants and earth? Can you make the ground tremor?"
And a sight it is. During that ride as the boat takes them to their destination, the landscape is breathtaking. It's the coast of Italia, and the islands beyond that stretch with the natural beauty of the Euro continent that is something just entirely different from the American backdrop these people are used to. It continues to make it's way around the back of the island and as those minutes continue to stretch on, the group will begin to engage in quiet conversation as they discern what their best approach is going to be. Not only do they have to get in - they have to get out without breaking the fragile cage-cup in the process. Those clouds Elias calls will come soon enough once the group is on the boat and on their way - covering up the sky with ease and soon bringing shade that will help in the interim. Mist might not be a terrible idea apart from being more conspicuous in the middle of the daytime but it would obscure sight. someone observes from a spot of shade somewhere outside the touch of the sun and Victoria and is left to determine whether this is a job for two legs, or four.
And a sight it is. During that ride as the boat takes them to their destination, the landscape is breathtaking. It's the coast of Italia, and the islands beyond that stretch with the natural beauty of the Euro continent that is something just entirely different from the American backdrop these people are used to. It continues to make it's way around the back of the island and as those minutes continue to stretch on, the group will begin to engage in quiet conversation as they discern what their best approach is going to be. Not only do they have to get in - they have to get out without breaking the fragile cage-cup in the process. Those clouds Elias calls will come soon enough once the group is on the boat and on their way - covering up the sky with ease and soon bringing shade that will help in the interim. Mist might not be a terrible idea apart from being more conspicuous in the middle of the daytime but it would obscure sight. Lilian(bengal) observes from a spot of shade somewhere outside the touch of the sun and Victoria and is left to determine whether this is a job for two legs, or four.
Ceryn slowly shakes his head, "I can't do anything violent with the ground, no. Not really quite in tune to do such a thing yet. One step at a time and all that." He replies, tone tinged with regret, "But- If we have any sprigs of ivy or something, could always have the plants choke out the cameras, wouldn't that work?"
SRKah says "By request - You are on the Ferry until you are ready to depart with your plans in place. Once you're ready to proceed you will be dropped off privately nearby the Villa's entrance via a private dock. "
While it won't become apparant until they arrive, Ceryn's idea has merit. In classic fashion, it's almost a certainty this traditional Italian villa is likely to be absolutely covered in ivy and other vine crawlers along stucco walls beneath terracotta roof.
Ash grins and nods to Ceryn. Good!" They turn back to Elias and hum. "We could also lower their wards... but, you think they'd notice?" They tilt their head to Ceryn as he speaks, drawling, "...or to block them with leaves. But, that's also a sign that we're coming. Actually, do you think we can try and level a tech hex on the whole place?
"Alright, so, this is my idea and we can revise it as how we see fit. I will call upon a storm and try to strike at the electrical grid controlling the security systems. While I am doing this, Ash, I would like you to try to call forth the mists. When we go into the structure, we can do a shadowshroud to cut out the internal lights. When we encounter wards, we have enough arcanists here, we should be able to make short work of them. What does everyone think of this plan?" Elias asks the others, glancing around to them.
"Happy to help. And even if it might give a warning... If anyone investigates, it might just seem like the gardener had been neglecting it? Either way, I think there's lots of options to make sure they don't know we're coming." Ceryn flashes a thumbs up at Elias, "I'm happy to follow along with the more experienced folks, just let me know when you want me to chip in for something."
Ash nods to Elias, telling Ceryn, "The place looks almost green from here. You can probably snare any enemies if the tables turn. You're very good at that - and I think Vic and I can shoot out of an ivy cage just fine."
Ceryn nudges Ash's side playfully, "You don't have to talk me up." He huffs, a little flustered, "I'll be relying on everyone else here, just make sure I pull my weight, that's all."
Lilian(bengal) makes her way over to the four discussing stuff on the ferry once they've left land. The cat moves along cautiously although without much fear and approaches Ceryn. There is a soft meow up at the man before the cat steps forward to try and twine its body around Ceryn's legs.
Ceryn squats down lightly, almost instinctively reaching to pet the cat, "I hope it doesn't smell Kesp on me. I don't think cats and foxes get along much..." He muses to himself, attention split between the feline and everything else.
Ash smiles happily, then bounces their angular hip against Ceryn. They turn to look for it - ab, but it already came. Ash asks Lilian(bengal) politely, "Are you a friend, kitty? You seem to lean to be a sailor cat. And yet, you felt mighty comfortable hopping onto this ferry."
"Well, if your fox is hungry, it is an easy meal I suppose." Elias offers to Ceryn with a faint shrug, shifting his attention towards the structure, "Stealth doesn't tend to be my speciality. Typically I just blast a hole in something and go in and take what I want, so I am all ears."
Lilian(bengal) purrs softly as Ceryn reaches down to scratch at it's ears, triangular flaps flicking against Ceryn's hand as it marks Ceryn with its scent, claiming the man in its cat way as its possession. At Ash's question towards it, it meows again, bumping its head against Ceryn's hand.
Ash tells Elias quietly, "Well, we *can* go in guns blazing. Feels like another Jayarr mission if we do, like old times."
Holding his position by the cat, Ceryn continues idly scritching and petting it, eyes drawn to the group as he listens quietly.
"Ideally, I don't want to take out half of the town for this mission. It looks bad overall. It is one thing about destroying an evil plague temple, it is totally enough blasting a villa in broad daylight." Elias muses to Ash.
Elias says "Err, totally something different rather."
Lilian(bengal) reaches a paw up as Ceryn continues to pet it and before he knows it the cat is clambering up his arm to reach a perch on his shoulder. Sharp little claws hook slightly on Ceryn's clothes until it can reach the top.
While Ceryn and Ash turn their attention to Lilian(bengal), there seems to be a growing consesus on taking the fast and smash approach, which given the power gathered here wouldn't be a terrible way to go after all. It's a statement perhaps as well, that this kind of security isn't beyond the Fortune's ability to overcome by force if they must. As they group nears their destination, one of the sailor crew will give them a gesture and direct the small group toward a rowboat. It looks like this is their stop. From here, they'll have to make inland from a few dozen meters out and the ferry is going to continue on. Conversations will be put on hold while the group now has to take the time to row themselves to shore. (And so it happens).
Final moments here, are taken and can be taken as well, no fear of raising an alarm, for now at least. The docks here have very little security since very few boats bother to come around this side of the island.
Ash nods to Elias in agreement. "Fair enough! I agree with that. Slow and stealthy it is!"
Wincing lightly, Ceryn chuckles as the feline clambers up and onto his shoulder, "Kesp is gonna be all moody once he smells me on you." He sighs, not quiet moving to do anything about it as his attention slips for a moment, "Would be pretty easy to spin a noisy destruction of a temple as some sort of martyr or sacrifice too. Only makes the zealous more so." The wildling notes aside.
As if in response to Ceryn's comment Lilian(bengal) rubs its head against his neck to put more of its scent on Ceryn. Then, looking quite like a smug cat, it flops down on Ceryn's shoulder waiting for its servants to row them to the island like the regal queen it is.
Ash murmurs to Ceryn, "We can toss her back on the ferry, you know. Don't need an unstable element." They start their ritual on the rowboat, then, knowing that they can match Elias's speed if they have Ceryn's help and focus. After all, they're only second to the Shaman in incantation speed and skill.
"As much as I love cats... I don't think it'd be smart to be carrying one around." Ceryn begrudgingly agrees, lofting the feline carefully in his hands and settling it down onto the ground. "Need help with the circles and such?" He glances upwards as he does.
Ash nods to Ceryn, drawling, "Yeah, especially since I can't dance here, you helping should make it faster." They flash him a warm smile before focusing on the mist ritual.
"I think I can at least /try/ to keep up with you two. Do we have a spot away from the public we can do it?" Ceryn asks in a curious tone, eyes panning around.
A grumbling meow is given towards Ceryn if there ever was one and there is swirl of black mist that covers Lilian(bengal) for a moment. When it clears, a woman stands where the cat once stood, with her hands on her hips.
Lilian scowls at Ceryn, "Tell me you're bad at taking hints without telling me you're bad." She complains to the man.
Ash only starts the ritual after they enter the rowboat, performing it on the floor of the little dinghy so that even if people from the ferry look, they won't see what's being done. When the cat reveals herself, Ash offers to Lilian, "And who are you?"
"Lily?" Ceryn blinks a few times, "What are you doing here of all people?" He asks with a lightly furrowed brow.
As Ash starts their ritual, Elias looks up to the sky, closing his eyes. Frost grows across the ground near his feet, going out about a foot and a half as he starts drawing magic to himself. While previously, the sky started to get more cloudy as he worked, now the clouds get even more dense, during into dark, angry clouds with lightning leaping between the clouds. And then heavy rain starts to pour down from the skies, perhaps giving more credibility to the fog rolling with the cold rain pelting down on the villa.
Taking the extra time to make prep work, Ash will soon be able to focus on the ability to call in those Mists and let them begin to wreath around the island. The natural environment of the island helps as well, as Elias has called in clouds and storm to begin brewing up above ready for him to call forth with the power of lightning. Right now the docks are abandoned, little foot traffic coming here. The Villa's entrance lies up ahead, and many discreet places along the way to take the time needed. Lilian chooses to reveal herself, in a swirl of shadow and there may be surprise, but no sense of alarm. Just another set of hands on the Job, and checking with assets or scouts will readily confirm that, if not much else about her! Now things are beginning to roll. The clouds begin to pour down some rain and the natural waters that surround the island pick up and lend to both mist and the growing rain storm! No more sunshine out, now.
"Who are you indeed," is all Victoria murmurs, idly tapping fingertips against her cheek.
It also means that time will now be of the essence. While their approach will be strong, it is all too likely that the sudden rise of these phenomenon will arouse SOME suspicion with those in the villa.
"The sun is out. And ... if you can turn into a bat just go shit on their cameras." Lilian tells Ash with a turn of her head. "You told me you were part of the final fantasy crew. My contacts at the market told me that they're going to be doing something I found interesting." There's another scowl, "Did you not read the text I sent you?" She grumbles throwing up her hands.
"Why is it always rain?" Victoria heaves a sigh, glancing to Elias. "It's never fun weather in a fun place." She wrinkles her nose at him in a faux-complaint.
"You probably knew more than I did, in that case." Ceryn levels at Lilian with a sigh, "That still doesn't explain why you decided to show up." He settles a hand on his hip, foot tapping idly as he looks to the rest.
Ash after finishing their ritual, Ash asks Lilian casually, "Why shouldn't I drown you, again? A stranger popping up on a mission that's focuses on our group, where you immediately start belittling us? You're shit at first impressions."
"At this point, who cares," Victoria waves a hand dismissively. "Deal with that later, yeah? Else we're going to get caught out here and that will be a bigger problem."
"Because you're cute and I wanted to see what your 'm friends are like." Lilian sweeping her hand through the air then sighs as the rain starts to get her dress wet. Her sapphire eyes turn towards Ash but she sends a nod towards Victoria's much wiser words.
"Because you're cute and I wanted to see what your friends are like." Lilian sweeping her hand through the air then sighs as the rain starts to get her dress wet. Her sapphire eyes turn towards Ash but she sends a nod towards Victoria's much wiser words.
"Because you try making a blizzard in at this latitude at this time of year. It is harder than you think it is." Elias says to Victoria with a grumble, shaking his head, "Trust me, I would rather it be snow or sleet." As he holds a hand out, letting the rain pelt it as he starts heading towards the villa now their screen to enter has been laid out, "We should move while the iron is hot as it were." He does stop, looking at Lilian, "Yeah. Good point. What are you doing here? I expect at the very least, show respect, if you don't, I suspect you might have some painful lessons coming your way, but as far now. I don't have time for this." He looks back towards the villa, "We need to move. If you are helping, help. If not, stay out of our way."
By Victoria's expression, it's clear she's not pleased with the exchanged words either, and the only remaining sound she makes is a soft hiss between her lips as she falls into line with Elias.
Tensions rise, but Elias and Victoria both speak wisely. The mists and storm rolling in, their time to move is now, that they've begun. The sand of the beach starts to grow clumpy and wet, and the path up ahead soon turns dreary-looking, almost as dreary as it looked inviting only several minutes before.
Ceryn snaps his fingers at Elias, "The chief has a point, mission at hand, we can talk about this after." He glances over to Lilian and Ash, "No violence, no drowning people when we're being hush hush, /please/ Ash." The fellow claps his hands together once before doubling his attention at Lilian, "I'll pay you back if you give us a hand, Lily, I know you're plenty capable."
Ash nods to Elias in agreement, ready to follow him. Or even scout ahead, if he needs it. They whisper to Ceryn, though not quiet enough, "I can make it quiet. Watch our backs?" They tilt a head to Lilian, already focused as they reach the shore.
Reaching a hand skyward, lightning arcing through the air, leaping cloud to cloud and then Elias points towards a power pole outside of the villa, calling forth nature's wrath upon that high point standing out in an effort to short out the local electrical grid. Whether he can call forth enough to do it, that is another question.
"No more fainting from blood loss hmm?" Lilian turns to tell Ceryn, reaching out to brush her knuckles over his cheek. "Im happy to help studmuffin just it is day out here and I prefer to stay in animal form until you need me." She murmurs to the man softly
Ceryn draws a breath as he offers Lilian a smile, "I'm not going to explain how embarrassing this is, but we'll talk, yeah?" Nodding as he glances upwards towards the sun.
Victoria's eyes snap to Lilian, narrowing. "A...you're kidding me," she says in a low tone. "Fantastic."
Ash nods sadly to Victoria. "At least she wears perfume."
Lilian gives Ceryn a wide eyes innocent look as the rain pours down around them, "Oops." She tells him with a shrug of her shoulders that says it's a bit too late now. A glance is cast towards Ash and Victoria before she leans back in towards Ceryn.
Victoria[OOC] Can we please get back to the regularly scheduled plot?
Lilian gives Ceryn a pointed look before mists envelope her again.
As the afternoon wears on, a sense of unease spreads over the villa, the sky gradually darkening as heavy, ominous clouds gather on the horizon. What began as a tranquil day is now overshadowed by the impending storm. The mist starts to roll in, weaving through the wooded grounds and settling over the landscape like a ghostly shroud. The air grows heavy with moisture, and the distinct smell of rain permeates the surroundings, mingling with the fragrant aroma of blooming flowers and fresh earth. The once bright sky is now a canvas of deep grays, the clouds churning and roiling with a menacing energy. The wind picks up, rustling the leaves and causing the ancient trees to sway, their branches creaking under the mounting pressure. The temperature drops, and a chill runs through the air as the first rumbles of thunder echo in the distance, a low, ominous warning of what is to come.
Mist thickens, obscuring the familiar paths and blurring the outlines of the villa's grand architecture. The torches lining the path flicker wildly, their flames struggling against the gusting wind. The lights within the villa cast feeble, distorted beams through the mist, barely penetrating the dense shroud. The storm clouds continue to advance, darkening the afternoon sky and casting an eerie twilight over the scene. As the storm intensifies, bolts of lightning streak across the sky, illuminating the turbulent clouds in stark, blinding flashes. Each crack of thunder follows more swiftly than the last, reverberating through the air and shaking the ground. The storm reaches its peak, and the atmosphere is charged with electricity, the tension almost tangible.
Suddenly, a brilliant flash of lightning tears through the sky, a jagged spear of white-hot energy that seems almost sentient in its aim. It strikes with Fortunate accuracy, connecting with a critical power pole that supplies the villa's security systems. The explosion is instantaneous, a blinding light and deafening crash that sends sparks flying and debris raining down. The air is filled with the acrid smell of burning insulation and the sharp crackle of short-circuiting wires. The villa is plunged into darkness as the power is cut, the once-vigilant security systems now rendered useless. The hum of cameras, the subtle whirr of motion sensors, and the steady beep of alarms all fall silent, leaving an eerie quiet in their wake. The only light comes from the sporadic flashes of lightning, casting brief, strobe-like illuminations across the scene of chaos.
Rain begins to fall in heavy sheets, pounding against the roof and windows of the villa. The wind howls through the trees, carrying the sounds of snapping branches and whipping leaves. The mist, now mingled with rain, swirls and dances in the tempest, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere that has descended upon the villa. Inside, the inhabitants scramble to respond to the sudden blackout, their movements quick and frantic. Emergency lights flicker on, casting dim, uneven glows that do little to pierce the pervasive darkness. The security team mobilizes, their radios crackling with hurried commands as they work to assess the damage and restore order. But the storm, relentless and unforgiving, continues to rage outside, nature's fury unleashed in a spectacular display of power that leaves no doubt of its supremacy. Now is the time for the Fortune to strike.
Black wings flare out in a flutter as without a sound Lilian(corvus) turns and sweeps through the rain towards the island, keen eyes scouting as it moves almost invisibly against the grey clouds.
Lilian(corvus)(ooc) Uhh thats weird.
knows this happens with animal forms. What isi t.
The room doesn't count as a 'natural' format room which is why it's not showing up correctly. Don't worry about it.
With the conversation cut by Elias's show of elemental command, Ceryn darts his attention away from the petty squabbling and over to the villa, eyes darting back and forth before settling back on the group. "Alright, now or never I suppose," He mutters to himself, fingers nervously fidgeting with the string of his bow.
Victoria slips along behind Elias, blending in the best she can in her attempts to remain noiseless.
OOC: Everyone can move north when they are ready to emote their 'assault' beginning and so on!
While not making any effort to draw attention to him, Elias doesn't make much effort to actual conceal himself beyond just moving with purpose towards the objective with the weather elements providing cover for his movements with a degree of confidence that the man often carries himself with. He does keep his voice low, "Lets move in. For the honor and glory of the Forged." He says, without actually declaring it in his normal battle cry.
Ash nods the rest of the forged, then deftly climbs up a tree to enact part two of their stealth mission, hiding as they perform a quick shadowcloak ritual otu of sight.
wants to make sure he catches everyone's post sorry!
saw Ash putting on his cloak.
Lilian(corvus) flies slightly ahead and above of the group, scouting the landscape for guards and movements. Her wings soar through the air as she glides almost silently with the gusts from the storm.
Now the storm's fury continues to rage outside, casting an eerie twilight over the villa as the infiltrating group makes their move. The once-imposing security systems are now in disarray, the blackout plunging the estate into chaos. The air is thick with tension, punctuated by the occasional flash of lightning that illuminates the scene in stark, blinding bursts. The infiltrators move with purpose, their dark silhouettes blending seamlessly with the shadows as they approach the villa's perimeter. Inside the villa, the security team scrambles to respond to the sudden power outage. Guards, usually composed and vigilant, are now frantically communicating through their radios, their voices tinged with urgency and confusion. but even the radios aren't working very reliably, the static charge in the air messing with their reception. The central monitoring room, once a hub of activity, is now a scene of disarray. Screens flicker erratically, displaying static and distorted images as the backup generators struggle to kick in. The hum of machinery is replaced by the sporadic crackle of short-circuiting wires, and the acrid smell of burning insulation hangs heavy in the air.
Sparks fly from damaged electrical panels, casting brief, fiery glows that illuminate the worried faces of the security personnel. The emergency lights flicker on and off, casting long, shifting shadows that add to the sense of unease. The guards, armed and alert, move through the dimly lit corridors, their footsteps echoing off the stone walls. They check doors and windows, their flashlights cutting through the darkness as they search for any signs of intrusion. Inside the villa, the guards continue their frantic efforts to restore order. They work to reroute power, their hands moving quickly over control panels and circuit breakers. The backup generators finally kick in, providing a temporary reprieve from the darkness, but the damage is done. The infiltrators are already inside, their presence undetected amidst the chaos.
The goal is simple: Get the cup and get out. Tearing down what resistance can be taken care of is useful, but it's not paramount. As the assault begins, the sun is beginning to go down and sink below the horizon! This will help their cause.
Ash walks near silence, trying to keep Elias and Ceryn in their sights while following Victoria's capable steps. Their eyes glance around, pausing on the guesthouse, then glancing at the main house, as best they can see them both. Both seem likely, and they whisper as much to their friends, using the din of chaos to cover their low tones.
Victoria turns her eyes to the guesthouse first, then sweeps her gaze to the main house, chewing absently on her lower lip in thought.
Ceryn follows closely behind Ash, a single arrow knocked onto their bow as their eyes frantically glance back and forth, peering into the darkness. Occasionally, he look over to Elias, waiting for any instructions, verbal or otherwise.
Lilian(corvus) lands once they make their way inside, finding a small corner to shift back to human. She too, cloaks herself with shadows with a quick ritual before shifting back to the bengal cat.
"I believe we need to head into the guest house and there is a hidden passage in there right?" Elias asks to Ash, rubbing his chin thoughtfully for a moment as he pauses to consider the next action as chaos rages around them.
Ash will find it easiest to slip through the confusion, with his cloak and the cameras down. Ceryn is likely to stick close to them and Lilian has a literal bird's eye view of the situation up above. The bird in flight can easily see the disarray down below, the unexpected strike of lightning called forth by Elias putting everything into chaos with one well-timed and fortunate strike. This is what it's like when those around you can bend the will of Luck to your favor! What will the Fortune do? They can smash into the defenses and take thier time or bee-line directly for the main house, where they're sure to find some sense of the where they'll need to go from there. Ceryn, Elias and Victoria will have to rush their way through the chaos - Ash and Lilian have free reign to make their way inside the main house before the rest. A cat is easily unnoticed in the hub bub of things, and without the cameras on easy backup, Ash's cloak does all the heavy lifting there, not including their own naturally gifted stealth talents. Their information mentioned hidden passages all throughout the compound, and yes ones that connect the guest house to the main house and beyond.
Whilst she can dash ahead Lilian(bengal) doesn't, choosing to stick near Ceryn, darting through the shadows and scouting around the corners to make sure the coast is clear before the group progresses. A tail held high with her going around the corner shows clear passage while a hiss and her darting towards them may indicate to hide
Ash nods to Elias, then leads with tugged hands and shoulders if needed to ensure that they're family is following, to the guest house, where they expect there to be less chaos. Maybe an entitled prick in the hallways complaining as if he or she is the priority, but the group could probably slip past, or pretend to be employees... Scuzi? Scusa? One of those words, mumbled, seems like an Italian thing.
To the tunnels, then through to the main house, so that even the less stealthy can make it inside of the main villa fine. Victoria at least has the eyesight to duck and dodge, so they focus on Elias and Ceryn the most.
Making his way through the prescribed path in which the instructions they were provided, presumably following them until any kind of hiccup is encountered within the process. Elias makes his way onward, watching his surroundings carefully, his hand on the hilt of his sword the entire way, ready to strike if the need arises.
Choosing their path, the group makes their way into the guest house. Amongst all the chaos - there's no difficulty really for any of them to find trouble doing so without being picked up by security for now. With the best dark vision, Victoria takes the lead as they make their way through those tunnels. Footsteps are nearly silent on the moss-covered floor, each step carefully placed to avoid detection. The walls of the tunnel are lined with age-worn stone, their rough surfaces telling tales of centuries gone by. You follow the twisting path, your senses heightened as you listen for any signs of danger. The glow of the torches casts eerie shadows on the walls, creating an atmosphere of tense anticipation. As you progress, you come to a section of the tunnel appears slightly different, the stones newer and the floor more even. Halting, someone might crouch down to inspect the area. Hidden mechanisms are barely visible beneath a layer of dirt and grime, revealing a pressure plate that would activate a concealed trap. Between the group. Lilian(bengal) is able to walk across the plate just fine in her feline form, the weight of her is not enough to trigger it. It's designed to stop human beings, not small creatures.
The tunnel splits into multiple directions, and the group has to consult the intel one of your allies holds. Following the path that leads to the main house, you navigate through narrower passageways, the air growing colder and the scent of moisture more pronounced. The sounds of distant dripping and the occasional rustle of unseen creatures add to the tension of your journey. The tunnel finally begins to incline upwards, indicating that you are nearing the main house. The air is fresher here, carrying faint hints of the aromas from the kitchens above. The last stretch is a narrow, winding staircase that spirals upwards, the stone steps worn smooth by countless footsteps over the years.
At the top of the staircase, you find the concealed door. A heavy wooden panel adorned with ancient carvings, it requires a specific sequence of pressure points to unlock. The combination you've been given here is good, the door creaking open to reveal the dimly lit interior of the villas library. The scent of old books and polished wood greets you, a stark contrast to the musty tunnels below. You step into the library, closing the secret entrance behind you. The room is quiet, the only sounds the faint crackle of a distant fire and the occasional rustle of pages as the breeze from an open window stirs the books. The mission is far from over, but you have successfully navigated the underground maze and breached the villas inner sanctum. With a sense of accomplishment and anticipation, you signal to your team, ready to continue the next phase of your infiltration. It's pretty clear this isn't so far from what you're looking for already. Many fine things are on display on shelves and in between stacks and bookshelves here.
Looking around, the Library might hold other secrets, other bookcases that move out of the way, a simple search might reveal interesting things. Then again there's plenty to look at in here. No cup, though.
Curiously, Ceryn begins to pad around the library. While more modern or earth literature might be plenty foreign for him, he keeps his eyes peeled for anything that potentially looks familiar to his faeling eyes. Yet, he only allows himself a small amount of time, not giving into the temptation to be distracted for the search for more on-topic clues to the relic.
A meowed warning is given to the group when Lilian(bengal) picks her way between the pressure plates, with her face rather close to the ground Lilian(bengal) can tell the fine outlines especially as she walks past them deftly.
Once they reach the library, the cat jumps up onto one of the shelves to give herself a birds eye view of the place.
Frowning, Victoria takes a quick inventory before turning toward Elias with a silent shake of her head as she realizes what they came for is not in sight.
Ceryn will find plenty to pique his interest, here. This man collects a great many things and knowledge is the most powerful of all. Occult volumes and tomes reside among the shelves, tempting and waiting to be re-discovered for the first time ..
While the others look for the object at hand, Elias does not, but instead he keeps an eye out for roaming security patrols. Making his way slowly towards the entrance to the room, listening for any signs of anyone in close proximity.
Ash looks over the books as they move, looking with a longing expression as they run the back of their first knuckles over the spines, before moving back to Elias, shaking their head. For one, they point to Lilian(bengal), then further in the building, with a curious expression to the group - not that the cat hasn't already been scouting, but sometimes, it's better to confirm. Further in may be uncharted territory, after all.
Lilian(bengal) scans the room regally from ontop of one of the tallest bookshelves as well, occasionally jumping from bookshelf to bookshelf as she tries to see if there's anything of interest along with making sure no one is sneaking up on them. With Ash's pointing, she jumps from shelf to shelf, trusting no one will be keeping booby traps many metres high in the air as she goes to scout deeper into the room.
Ash nods to Lilian(bengal) with respect, before preparing to move on at Elias' command or signal.
A search of the room will indeed discover several bookshelves with small sliding mechanisms that Lilian(bengal) can spy out with sharp eyes scanning from atop. It will take a moment to search their shelves fore the appropriate book, but this villa is nothing if not traditional in its style. Elias keeps out a good eye and he can hear voices clamoring from down the hall. They don't sound like they're comiong closer yet but they're close enough to grab the man's attention that's for sure. ALong the shelves go Ash and someone cat and there's a swift and effecient search that ensues. They're left with three viable choices not including the way they came in. The main entrance, leading into the Villa, Elias watching this exit carefully. The pair searching discover two more hidden passages, waiting to be opened while Victoria and Ceryn maintain a central position ready to react to whoever needs help at a moment's notice!
A search of the room will indeed discover several bookshelves with small sliding mechanisms that Lilian(bengal) can spy out with sharp eyes scanning from atop. It will take a moment to search their shelves fore the appropriate book, but this villa is nothing if not traditional in its style. Elias keeps out a good eye and he can hear voices clamoring from down the hall. They don't sound like they're comiong closer yet but they're close enough to grab the man's attention that's for sure. ALong the shelves go Ash and the cat and there's a swift and effecient search that ensues. They're left with three viable choices not including the way they came in. The main entrance, leading into the Villa, Elias watching this exit carefully. The pair searching discover two more hidden passages, waiting to be opened while Victoria and Ceryn maintain a central position ready to react to whoever needs help at a moment's notice!
Elias, Ash, Ceryn, and Lilian(bengal) will all feel ... an instictive lean to choose the hidden passage leading westward.
A meow is given towards Ash when Lilian(bengal) spots the first hinge on the ceiling. She scratches at it to make Ash aware before her darting around finds the other hinge towards the west. Another meow seeks to catch the group's attention as the cat prowls the top of the bookshelf, waiting to see which path the group chooses.
Indeed, Elias did have an instinct to press on through the secret tunnel in which they haven't explore yet instead of tromping down the hallway. The stormcaller speaks quietly to Ash, "Don't we have a solution to which book we need to move to open the next tunnel?" He asks Ash, gesturing them ontwards to open the passage.
Almost unconsciously, Ceryn begins to wander over to the western side, eyes peeking through to give attention to any reveal as he gets closer.
That pull seems to effect those more magically inclined, but it's Victoria's senses that will pick up the scent of gunpowder behind that western bookcase. It will take a precious couple of minutes to start trying books - but it won't take them that long, with all of them working toward it with quick hands. The gunpowder probably means some sort of trap lurking back there, but traps mean valueables.
Ash moves to the switch for the western passage, relying on Lilian(bengal)'s scouting before beckoning the others silently - likely unaware that there's no need to, since others would also be pulled, and Victoria likely moves in tune with the rest, as expected. They understand why Elias tells them to go first, though - must be nice to have a good luck charm on hand!
Victoria gives a sharp hiss, shaking her head as she heads toward the books. "It's not just books," she states with a sharp inhale of breath.
Lilian(bengal) jumps to the next bookcase along, just incase the bookcase slides into the wall or blows up or something when the group approaches to open it.
"We need to open it, but we need to be out of range and careful," Victoria frowns, subtly taking another inhale as she surveys the bookcase.
Lilian(bengal) prowls along the top of the wall, cat ears twitching as she listens out for approaching voices. At Victoria's words she jumps another bookcase for a little distance. Just incase.
The dark haired mercenary doesn't make any effort to move away from Ash's potentially explosive actions, but instead, just maintains his vigilant watch, glancing between Ash and the doorway which he is maintaining his post over. Elias gives Ash a nod, before noting, "Be careful."
"I'm guessing there's nightmare wards up?" Ceryn muses, standing back as they make their decision, "If there's a trap, would be nice if we could get a good look at it somehow."
Finding the book, Ash and the others will let the Faeborn go first. But even luck has it's limits. Despite Victoria's warning there's not really a lot they can do about it .. until Ash pulls out some lockpicking tools. So it's a careful opening of the bookcase. An inch once the book is pulled and the catch releases, before there's subtle tension. The careful approach lets them denote a thin, almost invisible wire. It's going to be a careful stretch through a thin crack to try and snip it, though.
OOC - Is working to wrap this up for folks as well, so we don't drag on too much further!
Ash relies on the steady hands they use for rituals' exact movement, as well as their skill in... well, playing games. It's best they can rely on as they... snip.
Being the slenderest of them - SRKah will have to use the reach of his tools... the snip catches the wire but it doesn't cut it! The shotgun it's attached to BOOMS off, ripping through the heavy wood of the bookcase, and shredding into paper that contains who knows what secrets! Since they've got the thing propped just open though, it acts a shield against the damage of the lead projectiles - but that sound is NOT going unnoticed. Once the debris flutters to the ground ... Ash can be reasonably sure the coast is clear to continue.
[SECURITY] Has now been alerted you have a metaphorical five minutes or so before several heavily armed men storm the library looking for the disturbance.
Ash grumbles, then rushes forward, hissing, "Sorry!"
"Let's find it and get out of here," Victoria shakes her head to Ash. "No being sorry."
flinches as the sudden thundercrack of gunfire cuts through the air. "Shit." He mutters, "Do we have a secondary exit by the by? I think I could block off some of the others, buy us some time." Ceryn puts forward as he glances over to Elias.
"Well, lets move. That will get noticed. We will do what we need too, but we knew we were on a quick time table anyway. This changes nothing, lets grab it and go." Elias says as he starts heading towards Ash, abandoning his post and preparing to head through the passage way.
"We could fortify the door, but at this point, we are just better off grabbing the artifact and pathing out." Elias explains to Ceryn as he makes his way over.
Deep within the labyrinthine tunnels beneath the grand Italian villa lies a secret treasure room, a hidden chamber that holds the most valuable and mysterious artifacts collected over centuries. This clandestine vault is accessible only through a series of intricate mechanisms and hidden doors, encountering less of them the deeper the tunnels go. As you step into the treasure room, the air feels cooler, almost sacred, charged with the weight of history and the aura of precious relics. The walls are lined with polished mahogany shelves and glass-fronted cabinets, each meticulously organized and filled with a dazzling array of treasures. The soft, ambient lighting is strategically placed to highlight the brilliance of the collection, casting a gentle glow that accentuates the fine details of each artifact. The sound of Bootfalls can be heard off in the distance, perhaps heading down the tunnel even now.
Gilded idols from forgotten civilizations stand proudly on pedestals, their intricate designs glinting in the low light. Delicate scrolls and manuscripts, their parchment edges frayed with age, are displayed in protective cases, their ancient texts hinting at long-lost knowledge. Jewel-encrusted ceremonial daggers, ornate chalices, and precious gemstones are arranged in a mesmerizing display of wealth and artistry. The room exudes a sense of both opulence and mystique, with each piece telling its own story of adventure and acquisition. The centerpiece of the room, however, is the diatretum cage-cup, known to some as the Slaughterer's Chalice. This masterpiece of ancient glasswork is displayed in a special glass case in the center of the room, commanding attention with its intricate and delicate design. The diatretum, a type of Roman luxury glass, features a remarkable latticework of fine, interwoven glass threads that encase a perfectly formed cup. The craftsmanship is so exquisite that it appears almost otherworldly, the glass seemingly defying the boundaries of possibility.
The diatretum cage-cup glows with an ethereal light, its translucent surface catching and refracting the ambient illumination, creating a mesmerizing play of colors and shadows. The latticework is adorned with tiny, precise carvings of mythological scenes and symbols, each one adding to the cup's enigmatic allure. The centerpiece is not only a marvel of ancient artistry but also a vessel of immense historical significance, whispered to have been used in dark rituals and ceremonies. As you take in the sight of this extraordinary artifact, the atmosphere is one of awe and reverence, with each piece in the collection contributing to the sense of wonder and discovery. And so there it is - within reach, behind a cage of glass.
Lilian(bengal) does the started cat thing where she rises up all fuzzy lick with her back arched when the boom goes off. A further meow is given at the sound of security coming and she jumps to the ground, darting through the passage before the group can even push it wide enough to make their way through. She paces her way carefully using her nightvision to warn the others following of traps before they come upon the treasure room.
"If it's pathing, then yeah, it's not like we need to worry too much about a way out." Ceryn notes to himself, digging hands into his jacket pockets and pulling out a handful of seeds, "Really should set on organizing these..." He mutters to himself as he pricks his thumb on his knife.
As the group makes their way through the passageways, Ceryn sprinkles the odd seed here and there, blooddrops that splatter from his cut quickly being traced into patterns by his footwork. Once they reach the chamber, he adjusts his glove and murmurs a few hushed words under his breath, finally setting the gathered vitae in the patterns loose to erupt into a tangle of wildflower, ivy, brambles and underbrush.
"Ash, get the cup, be careful. It is likely trapped too, but I know you got this. Vic, come with me, we are going to make sure nothing makes it through this doorway alive." Elias says as he starts to make his way towards the entrance to the room, even though Ceryn's plants will likely slow down the pursuers, but depending on the strengths of the guards, it might not be enough to stop them completely. He glances back to Ceryn, "You should probably help Ash, if it is warded, they likely will need assistance in breaking them."
A clever move by Ceryn will buy them a little bit of time, here! His quick thinking will choke up the passageway behind them, forcing the security to work their way through tangled vines and excessive growth that shouldn't be there. A precious few minutes it might be, too. Luckily if anyone checks - either the power surge effected wards, or the wards were more rumor than fact for the feeling of those tendrils that will slowly coalesce into a pathway can be felt and called upon. Lilian(bengal) doesn't find any traps thankfully, just the procession of doors they work through.
"Right," Victoria states, notching an arrow in her bow and swiftly moving alongside Elias.
Ceryn flashes a thumbs-up to Elias before stepping over to Ash, "Just let me know what needs doing, aye?" He passes along to them, standing by as he places a superficial band-aid over the prick on his thumb.
Once everyone is in position, the cat turns again into Lilian, looking as if she was ready to go on a date rather than crawling through tunnels. Nevertheless her aurashifting makes it so that her dress and appearance are flawless as she crouches down around the egg. A glance is given towards Ceryn at the scent of blood but she puts her not unformidable arcane powers at work to detect wards and traps around the cup.
Ash checks the case with the cup in it quickly, looking for a latch or an unusually thick base to high noxious gas when the internal pressure changes - or something. Otherwise, there's no reason not to just smash the glass open - not like there's a point in being surreptitious anymore. After either working against a traps and wards to open the case, or finding no barrier and just smashing the glass, with Ceryn's help.
While Ash and Lilian with Ceryn's help observe the glass cage at the cup - there's nothing that jumps out immediately to their magical senses. And Ash is checking for technological traps as well, ever one not to underestimate the power of simple human ingenuity as well. No - it looks like this far in , all they have to do is smash the glass, and not the cup of course! They cannot damage the cup in any way, not so much as a scratch across its surface! Careful application of force should do the trick, though. Then it's just baout making it out. While they watch on , Elias and Victoria see what appears to be at least a dozen men shoving their way through the last of underbrush down a long stretch of tunnel slash hallway. Classic thuggish security types, the only thing missing for them would be tommy guns instead of the street sweepers they seem to be carrying! The first of them can spot Elias and Victoria easily enough, already shouting in Italian and motioning forward - raising his gun!
Without hesitation Victoria draws an arrow and lets it loose before moving to the side. "Hey, you two might want to grab that," she calls over her shoulder with a hint of urgency. "They don't look happy."
Shadows start to bend and twist around Elias as he starts to draw upon his magic, causing the temperature to plummet around him, having an equally cold look painted on his face as he faces these guards. Blueish-white lightly leaps from his fingertips, blasting down the hallway with his sorcerous magic.
Ceryn turns on his heel, bow becoming unslung from his back as he knocks an arrow, "They were faster than I wanted." He sighs, pulling the bowstring taut as crackling lightning arcs down the hallway. Taking a moment, he looks down at his own, feeling a little underdressed at that moment.
Ash will indeed engage in careful application fo force so as not to damage the cup. "Yeah, just needed to make sure we don't choke on toxic gas, and all... yeah, that should do it." After opening it, Ash takes the cup out carefully, gingerly, before tucking it tightly into their bag - then shifting into a bat, as Lilian already predicted. They start working on a path, looking goofy as a tiny cotton ball squeaking as they use their supernatural blood to open the Ley Path back to Haven.
Lilian moves back to allow someone and Ceryn to figure out how to get the object out of the glass without smashing it. Her head turns at the first sound of a gunshot and Elias's magic. Her hand lifts gracefully and the guards at the forefront might find themselves blind, with blood shot eyes and blood pouring from their nostrils. She steps out of the way then, making sure that they don't have an angle to get a shot on her.
Lilian moves back to allow thr androgyne and Ceryn to figure out how to get the object out of the glass without smashing it. Her head turns at the first sound of a gunshot and Elias's magic. Her hand lifts gracefully and the guards at the forefront might find themselves blind, with blood shot eyes and blood pouring from their nostrils. She steps out of the way then, making sure that they don't have an angle to get a shot on her.
"Who ever is focusing on a building a path, make sure to touch me before you leave, I am going to need to get dragged out of here. I won't be able to focus." Elias says as he keeps hurling powerful mixtures of winds, ice, and lightning at the advancing foes.
Ash(bat) flutters over to Elias, hanging upside down from the collar of his shirt - digging under the gaiter to specifically hook onto his shirt collar. Even if it was just his Battle Dress shirt.
Elias' true reason for being here tonight becomes apparent as well as Victoria. Her arrow goes streaking through the air to tag into a guard's thigh with precision and icey cold magic comes ripping down the hallways now. The scream of men feeling the touch of frostbite and cold creep into their nerves come running back down the hallways even as blood vessels burst in their eyes and leave them unable to see. Now they're easy enough pickings for the group. Ceryn's arrows join the rest and they are honestly driven back by the overkill. Before too long Ash(bat) will be able to make the path known to them, opening the Way. Lilian, Ash(bat), Ceryn, Victoria, all have an easy enough time but that cold demeanor seems to drive Elias forward. By the time someone touches him and drags him back - there's nothing left of the dozen or more men but frozen statues that look like crudely carved sculptures. A statement indeed, to leave behind.
OOC: Alright! Thank you so much for participating tonight! The good planning meant that more of my heavier stuff did not have to come into play which worked out well! Peoiple should throw their lasting emotes and prepare anythign they might like for rewards if they have the XP to spend! I will take a moment to congratulate Ceryn for his first adventure and rolling with the punches! He did well to assist the group without pushing beyond his means! While small in nature, that clever trick at the end really let me make it easier to hold back the guards instead of bringing it to melee! A plethora of magic users made it tricky to shine any one person but hopefully nobody felt too left out!
With a subtle touch to Elias's shoulder to make sure he and Ash(bat) are ready to leave, Victoria grins. "Nicely done," she says to the man before turning toward the path, looking rather relaxed as she makes her way off.
Ash(bat) offers a wing to Ceryn, so they can 'hold hands' through the path, ensuring that he doesn't get lost.
Lilian turns back into a cat and jumps on Ceryn's shoulder, letting him carry her through the path rather then walk it herself.
Ceryn cant help but chuckle lightly at the talking bat, hand clasping the bat's paw in turn.
As always, respect for the Way is paramount and Ash(bat) doesn't forget. Ceryn will be kept well to the middle of that strange road through a forest that isn't. He doesn't want to know what happens to those who fall from the path. Nobody does.
Getting swept away within the storm brewing within, Elias unleashing that storm from within at those that forced their way down the hallway, it takes a moment to snap himself out of it as he is dragged away through the pathways, and finding himself back to where they started, but this time, with the artifact that they were pursing. He looks to the others with a small smile, "Cleanly done. Well job everyone."
Elias says "And well done."
When they are out on the otherside, Lilian(bengal) jumps off of Ceryn's shoulders before shifting back into her human self. The sun is down which means she can shed her sunnys and cloak.
SRKah says "ALright. To expediate - if anyone has reward needs prepare them now and let me know what I can do. I will collect these PRIOR to finishing the plot etc. so I can take care of them timely and without anyone having to wait too long if they have to go quickly. "
Lilian takes a stick of gum from her bag, unwrapping it before popping the gum in her mouth, chewing thoughtfully as she looks over the group once they've reappeared on the other side. "Like Ryn mentioned. I'm Lily." She says by way of introduction.
The journey begins with a covert approach to the villa, expertly navigating through secret tunnels and evading traps with the aid of their diverse skills and the magical prowess within their group. Elias's command over elemental forces brings forth a storm, obscuring their infiltration from the villa's security systems and guards. Meanwhile, Ceryn's connection with nature allows for creative obstructions against pursuers, and Ash's adeptness with lockpicking and stealth plays a crucial role in bypassing physical barriers.
The tension escalates as the team discovers the treasure room, where the Slaughterer's Chalice, a masterpiece of ancient glasswork, awaits them. However, the retrieval is far from simple. The group faces the challenge of extracting the artifact without triggering the deadly defenses surrounding it. With careful coordination, they manage to secure the cup, but not without drawing the attention of the villa's security forces.
In the heat of escape, the team showcases their combat prowess. Elias, enveloped in a merciless frost storm, decimates the approaching guards, leaving behind a chilling warning for any who dare challenge them. Victoria's precision and Lilian's debilitating magic further ensure their adversaries stand no chance, allowing for a swift exit through a magical pathway created by Ash.
Their return to safety is marked by a mix of relief and triumph. The Slaughterer's Chalice now in their possession, the adventurers reflect on their journey, the challenges surmounted, and the unlikely bonds formed. Lilian, having initially joined the group under mysterious circumstances, reveals her true identity, ingratiating herself with her newfound allies.
The story concludes not just with the successful acquisition of the artifact but with the emergence of a formidable team, each member's unique talents contributing to their collective victory. In the face of formidable defenses and the ever-looming threat of capture or worse, they've proven that unity and ingenuity can overcome even the most insurmountable obstacles.
(The Slaughterer's Chalice(SRKah):SRKah)
[Thu Nov 28 2024]
Before A Grand Italian Villa
Standing before a grand villa, you find yourself surrounded by a picturesque landscape that blends natural beauty with architectural elegance. The cobblestone street leading up to the villa is flanked by rows of ancient olive trees, their gnarled trunks and silvery leaves whispering in the gentle Mediterranean breeze. Colorful bougainvillea cascades over stone walls, adding vibrant splashes of pink and purple to the warm, earthy tones of the surrounding buildings. The air is filled with the subtle scent of citrus blossoms and the distant, rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the rocky shore.
The villa itself is a stunning example of Italian craftsmanship, with terracotta roofs, arched windows, and elegant balconies adorned with wrought iron railings. The faade is a harmonious blend of creamy stucco and exposed stone, giving it a timeless charm. Behind the villa, rolling hills covered in vineyards and dotted with cypress trees stretch towards the horizon, creating a serene backdrop that invites both relaxation and exploration. The entire scene is bathed in the soft, golden light of the Sardinian sun, creating an idyllic setting that captures the essence of Mediterranean beauty.
It is night, about 57F(13C) degrees, There is a new moon.
SRKah says "I believe we're just waiting on Ash and mayber Ceryn>"
Elias says "Correct "
SRKah says "Alright! Everyone can provide an entrance! Your arriving at the port of Cagliari the main import and export for the isle of Sardinia. From there you will be boarding a ferry to take you around the island's back shores. Once everyone has arrived I will get things a-going. "
"Finally, somewhere actually worth looking at," Victoria remarks with a sense of relief, stepping gracefully out of a swirling gust of air. She takes a moment to glance around, her eyes scanning the surroundings with a look of genuine appreciation, the corners of her lips curling into a slight smile.
On the docks right next to the boarding ramp to the ferry sits a cat. A rather pretty little bengal cat with grey leopard spots. It's tail flicks back and forth idly as it waits upon one of those tall wooden pillars people tie their boats to. Lilian(bengal) watched the proceeding of the dock with its sapphire eyes, following the people milling about.
Traversing the shadowy path of the dark forest, Elias takes the final steps on the path arriving at his destination. To the casual observer, it would just seem like the dark haired man appears from thin air. Hopefully though, there is no observers as he appears at the meeting point, presumably within the back alleys of the city. Letting his gray-blue eyes slowly drift around himself as he scans his surroundings, Elias's hand falls idly upon the hilt of his blade that is sheathed on his belt.
Ash dims their will o' wisps just as they arrive at the end of the Path, Ceryn in tow. They huddle with the others, surveying the compount before asking Elias in a soft voice, "How are we doing this? I don't think Ceryn can shift into anything small, and I'm actually stealthier on my feet than in bat form. If we go in hard, though, I'mma focus on pathing in for support than attacking, if it's the same to you. I'm better at a distance."
Ash is all business from the moment they step in, eyes narrowed and head on a swivel. They brought their sword this time, instead of the spear they've been 'keeping' for Kah, and a crossbow hangs from their hip instead of a rifle. A pink tongue flicks over plush brown lips, and hazel eyes - near gold - glance over Lilian(bengal) with suspicion.""
"Oh, easy. I am just going to just use a ritual so the mist is so heavy you won't be able to see your hand in front of your face and then even if people are poor at sneaking, largely the elements should be doing the bulk of the work... or least that is the theory isn't it? I am not sure if we can get the mists as dense here this far from the gates, but the principle should be the same still." Elias says to Ash as he rubs his chin thoughtfully, "Because doing this in broad daylight otherwise is going to be very challenging."
Ceryn keeps his eyes panning the area as he steps in aside Ash, hands dug into his pockets as he takes in the new environment. "I can't shift, not yet." He tacks on, "Just let me know what you want me to do and I'll put my hand in, if you want to be subtle it might be best I stick aside though."
Ash nods to Elias, before pointing out to Elias, "It's night."
Ceryn snaps his fingers at Elias, "Very smart, I didn't even consider that."
[OOC] This intel is written this way so I do not have to provide as many places to join.
As each of these Adventurers arrive this evening into the center of the city that acts as the main population hub for the isle of Sardinia, they'll make their way each in their own fashion to the port of Cagliari. Each has the time to make their way there from their chosen points of arrival. From there the ferry will take them out onto the water. The ride will take time, the minutes turning into hours as they cross the water - leaving them time to discuss their approach. Their destination is a small anchor point around the back coast of the island, close enough to the Villa to provide a good opportunity regardless of what tactics they choose to employ. A small informational packet comes along with their ride, the surly ferryman passing it to them without word and that's the last anyone will see of him! The packet doesn't contain the easy sheet for getting the job done but it has some information that may be helpful.
The walls of these tunnels are constructed from age-worn stone, their surfaces cool and slightly damp to the touch, exuding an ancient, almost mystical air. Flickering torches set in iron sconces line the passageways, casting an eerie, dancing light that creates elongated shadows on the walls. The air within is thick with the scent of earth and old stone, mingling with the faint aroma of burning torchwood. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of secrets, each twist and turn of the tunnels whispering tales of bygone eras and clandestine activities. As you make your way deeper into the labyrinth, there will be a path that splits into multiple directions, each tunnel marked by subtle, nearly indistinguishable signs known only to those familiar with the villa's secrets. The main passage branches off toward one direction, with smaller offshoots leading to rooms and alcoves where ancient artifacts and forgotten treasures are tucked away. These side chambers, some of which are accessible through heavy, creaky doors, house relics that span centuries; gilded relics, dusty manuscripts, and ornate chests filled with untold riches.
The tunnel leading to the guest house eventually open up into a small, dimly lit room. Here, you can find a cleverly disguised bookshelf that serves as an entrance and exit. You've been given a tip on which book to tilt, revealing a passage into the guest house's lower levels. This secret entrance provides a secure route for guests to come and go without drawing undue attention, ensuring their privacy and safety. The tunnel that leads to the main house is equally well-hidden. It terminates beneath the grand library, with an exit masked by a luxurious, intricately woven rug. By lifting the rug and pressing a concealed latch, a trapdoor is revealed, opening into a concealed stairwell that ascends into the heart of the villa. The library above is a picture of elegance and intellect, its shelves lined with leather-bound books and its walls adorned with classical artwork. This hidden entrance allows inhabitants of the main house to escape or access the tunnels quickly, should the need arise.
The intel for a more aggressive approach isn't a whole lot more fruitful but some information is better than none. The main villa boasts an extensive security setup that blends traditional methods with modern technology and even supernatural elements. Stout, stone walls surround the property, with wrought iron gates that are monitored by vigilant, well-trained guards who patrol the grounds day and night. These guards are equipped with advanced communication devices and surveillance tools, ensuring constant vigilance. High-tech security measures include a network of discreetly placed cameras and motion sensors that cover every corner of the estate, linked to a central monitoring room. Access to the villa is controlled through biometric scanners and encrypted keycards, ensuring only authorized individuals can enter. Additionally, the villa is equipped with an alarm system that instantly alerts the security team to any unauthorized breach.
Adding an extra layer of protection, the villa is rumored to be safeguarded by supernatural measures. Ancient runes and talismans are strategically placed throughout the property, believed to ward off intruders with ill intentions. Stories of ethereal guardians, spirits bound to protect the villa, circulate among the staff and add a mysterious aura to the estate's already formidable defenses. This combination of human, technological, and mystical security ensures the villa remains an impenetrable fortress. How much of this information is accurate is up for debate. Much of this can only be gleaned from conjecture and rumor as very few people have been able to get a prolonged look around the inside to gather more firm information.
Ash assumes that it's actuall day.
With a soft sigh, Victoria asks Elias the most obvious question. "Fur or no?"
SRKah says "It is day. "
SRKah says "Reposting for length issues! I didn't think it would be that long! "
[Repost] As each of these Adventurers arrive this evening into the center of the city that acts as the main population hub for the isle of Sardinia, they'll make their way each in their own fashion to the port of Cagliari. Each has the time to make their way there from their chosen points of arrival. From there the ferry will take them out onto the water. The ride will take time, the minutes turning into hours as they cross the water - leaving them time to discuss their approach. Their destination is a small anchor point around the back coast of the island, close enough to the Villa to provide a good opportunity regardless of what tactics they choose to employ. A small informational packet comes along with their ride, the surly ferryman passing it to them without word and that's the last anyone will see of him! The packet doesn't contain the easy sheet for getting the job done but it has some information that may be helpful.
The walls of these tunnels are constructed from age-worn stone, their surfaces cool and slightly damp to the touch, exuding an ancient, almost mystical air. Flickering torches set in iron sconces line the passageways, casting an eerie, dancing light that creates elongated shadows on the walls. The air within is thick with the scent of earth and old stone, mingling with the faint aroma of burning torchwood. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of secrets, each twist and turn of the tunnels whispering tales of bygone eras and clandestine activities. As you make your way deeper into the labyrinth, there will be a path that splits into multiple directions, each tunnel marked by subtle, nearly indistinguishable signs known only to those familiar with the villa's secrets. The main passage branches off toward one direction, with smaller offshoots leading to rooms and alcoves where ancient artifacts and forgotten treasures are tucked away. These side chambers, some of which are accessible through heavy, creaky doors, house relics that span centuries; gilded relics, dusty manuscripts, and ornate chests filled with untold riches.
[Repost] The tunnel leading to the guest house eventually open up into a small, dimly lit room. Here, you can find a cleverly disguised bookshelf that serves as an entrance and exit. You've been given a tip on which book to tilt, revealing a passage into the guest house's lower levels. This secret entrance provides a secure route for guests to come and go without drawing undue attention, ensuring their privacy and safety. The tunnel that leads to the main house is equally well-hidden. It terminates beneath the grand library, with an exit masked by a luxurious, intricately woven rug. By lifting the rug and pressing a concealed latch, a trapdoor is revealed, opening into a concealed stairwell that ascends into the heart of the villa. The library above is a picture of elegance and intellect, its shelves lined with leather-bound books and its walls adorned with classical artwork. This hidden entrance allows inhabitants of the main house to escape or access the tunnels quickly, should the need arise.
The intel for a more aggressive approach isn't a whole lot more fruitful but some information is better than none. The main villa boasts an extensive security setup that blends traditional methods with modern technology and even supernatural elements. Stout, stone walls surround the property, with wrought iron gates that are monitored by vigilant, well-trained guards who patrol the grounds day and night. These guards are equipped with advanced communication devices and surveillance tools, ensuring constant vigilance. High-tech security measures include a network of discreetly placed cameras and motion sensors that cover every corner of the estate, linked to a central monitoring room. Access to the villa is controlled through biometric scanners and encrypted keycards, ensuring only authorized individuals can enter. Additionally, the villa is equipped with an alarm system that instantly alerts the security team to any unauthorized breach.
[Repost] Adding an extra layer of protection, the villa is rumored to be safeguarded by supernatural measures. Ancient runes and talismans are strategically placed throughout the property, believed to ward off intruders with ill intentions. Stories of ethereal guardians, spirits bound to protect the villa, circulate among the staff and add a mysterious aura to the estate's already formidable defenses. This combination of human, technological, and mystical security ensures the villa remains an impenetrable fortress. How much of this information is accurate is up for debate. Much of this can only be gleaned from conjecture and rumor as very few people have been able to get a prolonged look around the inside to gather more firm information.
Lilian(bengal) continues to wait on the quay, its tail flicking idly from side to side as it waits to see who is planning to board the ferry to the island.
Lowering his voice as he looks upon the defenses, his own arcane senses likely tinging at the layers upon layers of wards placed on the home, most likely giving off a very palpable feel of magic radiating off of them, Elias grumbles, "Why didn't we bring the howitzers. James Bond would have a hard time getting into this place." Elias says as he sighs as he looks up towards the sky. Reaching up towards the sun with outstretched fingers, Elias clenches his fist, pulling his hand towards his chest. As he does this, clouds start forming overhead, nothing too dense at this point, leaving a question whether he is actually doing anything at all with his action.
or rather we are still inside, so Elias probably didn't do the last part there, but the complaints remain real.
As those who look to board the ferry come and go, Lilian(bengal) watching will denote Ash, Victoria, Elias and Ceryn that stand out a little bit from the rest of these that wait. When it's time the boat will arrive and those will board who are boarding. There are a few others taking the ferry ride, but they don't seem to be civilians or rather - not tourists. Crewmen probably, or similar they seem to know where they're going and what they're doing. This ride will take some time, and this is when someone will provide the intel package that outlines just how much of a job this might be! Still - the information seems pretty clear on one point. If you think you're going to get caught taking the sneaky approach? Don't. It's better to take the element of surprise on an assault then get caught in a tight spot. Some of the information remains ambiguous as well, concerning the overall defenses so it's hard to say exactly how much of it is in operation or even installed but the scouts forwarded to Italy in preperation assume caution over optimism given Sergio's reputation. Even that is vague, beyond most people on the island being afraid to so much as speak about him without permission.
Ash grumbles to Elias, drawling, "I wish Sienna was here... my illusions don't work on cameras. Well... except for face stealing. We have a coven of casters here, if you want to try overpowering the wards."
Lilian(bengal) hops onto the boat when it finally arrived, earning probably a nasty glance from some of the crewmen something about a black cat bringing bad luck on ships or something. There, it sinks down on its hunches as the clouds above shield the sun, its tail flicking back and forth as it waits for the group of interesting people to board.
Ceryn leans forward to glance aside to Ash, "I'm feeling pretty good compared to the ghost stuff." He notes, "Happy to help with any circles or offerings, just let me know, aye?" With a smile, he settles back aside them, eyes still content to take in the sights of a new, foreign land.
Ash smiles to Ceryn, asking quietly, "You've been eating your broccoli and liver, then?"
Watching silently as the cat hops onto the boat, Victoria's eyes narrow with suspicion. Shrugging a shoulder, she simply turns to Elias, waiting to see his thoughts.
Ceryn splays his hand across his chest, "I love liver." He replies, matter-of-factly.
"Well, I would say we could use a shadowcloak, but honestly, I would suspect that the cameras use nightvision lenses. Hrmmm. There has has to be a solution, there is always one...." Elias says to Ash before looking to Ceryn, "How advanced is your magic Ceryn? How much can you manipulate plants and earth? Can you make the ground tremor?"
And a sight it is. During that ride as the boat takes them to their destination, the landscape is breathtaking. It's the coast of Italia, and the islands beyond that stretch with the natural beauty of the Euro continent that is something just entirely different from the American backdrop these people are used to. It continues to make it's way around the back of the island and as those minutes continue to stretch on, the group will begin to engage in quiet conversation as they discern what their best approach is going to be. Not only do they have to get in - they have to get out without breaking the fragile cage-cup in the process. Those clouds Elias calls will come soon enough once the group is on the boat and on their way - covering up the sky with ease and soon bringing shade that will help in the interim. Mist might not be a terrible idea apart from being more conspicuous in the middle of the daytime but it would obscure sight. someone observes from a spot of shade somewhere outside the touch of the sun and Victoria and is left to determine whether this is a job for two legs, or four.
And a sight it is. During that ride as the boat takes them to their destination, the landscape is breathtaking. It's the coast of Italia, and the islands beyond that stretch with the natural beauty of the Euro continent that is something just entirely different from the American backdrop these people are used to. It continues to make it's way around the back of the island and as those minutes continue to stretch on, the group will begin to engage in quiet conversation as they discern what their best approach is going to be. Not only do they have to get in - they have to get out without breaking the fragile cage-cup in the process. Those clouds Elias calls will come soon enough once the group is on the boat and on their way - covering up the sky with ease and soon bringing shade that will help in the interim. Mist might not be a terrible idea apart from being more conspicuous in the middle of the daytime but it would obscure sight. Lilian(bengal) observes from a spot of shade somewhere outside the touch of the sun and Victoria and is left to determine whether this is a job for two legs, or four.
Ceryn slowly shakes his head, "I can't do anything violent with the ground, no. Not really quite in tune to do such a thing yet. One step at a time and all that." He replies, tone tinged with regret, "But- If we have any sprigs of ivy or something, could always have the plants choke out the cameras, wouldn't that work?"
SRKah says "By request - You are on the Ferry until you are ready to depart with your plans in place. Once you're ready to proceed you will be dropped off privately nearby the Villa's entrance via a private dock. "
While it won't become apparant until they arrive, Ceryn's idea has merit. In classic fashion, it's almost a certainty this traditional Italian villa is likely to be absolutely covered in ivy and other vine crawlers along stucco walls beneath terracotta roof.
Ash grins and nods to Ceryn. Good!" They turn back to Elias and hum. "We could also lower their wards... but, you think they'd notice?" They tilt their head to Ceryn as he speaks, drawling, "...or to block them with leaves. But, that's also a sign that we're coming. Actually, do you think we can try and level a tech hex on the whole place?
"Alright, so, this is my idea and we can revise it as how we see fit. I will call upon a storm and try to strike at the electrical grid controlling the security systems. While I am doing this, Ash, I would like you to try to call forth the mists. When we go into the structure, we can do a shadowshroud to cut out the internal lights. When we encounter wards, we have enough arcanists here, we should be able to make short work of them. What does everyone think of this plan?" Elias asks the others, glancing around to them.
"Happy to help. And even if it might give a warning... If anyone investigates, it might just seem like the gardener had been neglecting it? Either way, I think there's lots of options to make sure they don't know we're coming." Ceryn flashes a thumbs up at Elias, "I'm happy to follow along with the more experienced folks, just let me know when you want me to chip in for something."
Ash nods to Elias, telling Ceryn, "The place looks almost green from here. You can probably snare any enemies if the tables turn. You're very good at that - and I think Vic and I can shoot out of an ivy cage just fine."
Ceryn nudges Ash's side playfully, "You don't have to talk me up." He huffs, a little flustered, "I'll be relying on everyone else here, just make sure I pull my weight, that's all."
Lilian(bengal) makes her way over to the four discussing stuff on the ferry once they've left land. The cat moves along cautiously although without much fear and approaches Ceryn. There is a soft meow up at the man before the cat steps forward to try and twine its body around Ceryn's legs.
Ceryn squats down lightly, almost instinctively reaching to pet the cat, "I hope it doesn't smell Kesp on me. I don't think cats and foxes get along much..." He muses to himself, attention split between the feline and everything else.
Ash smiles happily, then bounces their angular hip against Ceryn. They turn to look for it - ab, but it already came. Ash asks Lilian(bengal) politely, "Are you a friend, kitty? You seem to lean to be a sailor cat. And yet, you felt mighty comfortable hopping onto this ferry."
"Well, if your fox is hungry, it is an easy meal I suppose." Elias offers to Ceryn with a faint shrug, shifting his attention towards the structure, "Stealth doesn't tend to be my speciality. Typically I just blast a hole in something and go in and take what I want, so I am all ears."
Lilian(bengal) purrs softly as Ceryn reaches down to scratch at it's ears, triangular flaps flicking against Ceryn's hand as it marks Ceryn with its scent, claiming the man in its cat way as its possession. At Ash's question towards it, it meows again, bumping its head against Ceryn's hand.
Ash tells Elias quietly, "Well, we *can* go in guns blazing. Feels like another Jayarr mission if we do, like old times."
Holding his position by the cat, Ceryn continues idly scritching and petting it, eyes drawn to the group as he listens quietly.
"Ideally, I don't want to take out half of the town for this mission. It looks bad overall. It is one thing about destroying an evil plague temple, it is totally enough blasting a villa in broad daylight." Elias muses to Ash.
Elias says "Err, totally something different rather."
Lilian(bengal) reaches a paw up as Ceryn continues to pet it and before he knows it the cat is clambering up his arm to reach a perch on his shoulder. Sharp little claws hook slightly on Ceryn's clothes until it can reach the top.
While Ceryn and Ash turn their attention to Lilian(bengal), there seems to be a growing consesus on taking the fast and smash approach, which given the power gathered here wouldn't be a terrible way to go after all. It's a statement perhaps as well, that this kind of security isn't beyond the Fortune's ability to overcome by force if they must. As they group nears their destination, one of the sailor crew will give them a gesture and direct the small group toward a rowboat. It looks like this is their stop. From here, they'll have to make inland from a few dozen meters out and the ferry is going to continue on. Conversations will be put on hold while the group now has to take the time to row themselves to shore. (And so it happens).
Final moments here, are taken and can be taken as well, no fear of raising an alarm, for now at least. The docks here have very little security since very few boats bother to come around this side of the island.
Ash nods to Elias in agreement. "Fair enough! I agree with that. Slow and stealthy it is!"
Wincing lightly, Ceryn chuckles as the feline clambers up and onto his shoulder, "Kesp is gonna be all moody once he smells me on you." He sighs, not quiet moving to do anything about it as his attention slips for a moment, "Would be pretty easy to spin a noisy destruction of a temple as some sort of martyr or sacrifice too. Only makes the zealous more so." The wildling notes aside.
As if in response to Ceryn's comment Lilian(bengal) rubs its head against his neck to put more of its scent on Ceryn. Then, looking quite like a smug cat, it flops down on Ceryn's shoulder waiting for its servants to row them to the island like the regal queen it is.
Ash murmurs to Ceryn, "We can toss her back on the ferry, you know. Don't need an unstable element." They start their ritual on the rowboat, then, knowing that they can match Elias's speed if they have Ceryn's help and focus. After all, they're only second to the Shaman in incantation speed and skill.
"As much as I love cats... I don't think it'd be smart to be carrying one around." Ceryn begrudgingly agrees, lofting the feline carefully in his hands and settling it down onto the ground. "Need help with the circles and such?" He glances upwards as he does.
Ash nods to Ceryn, drawling, "Yeah, especially since I can't dance here, you helping should make it faster." They flash him a warm smile before focusing on the mist ritual.
"I think I can at least /try/ to keep up with you two. Do we have a spot away from the public we can do it?" Ceryn asks in a curious tone, eyes panning around.
A grumbling meow is given towards Ceryn if there ever was one and there is swirl of black mist that covers Lilian(bengal) for a moment. When it clears, a woman stands where the cat once stood, with her hands on her hips.
Lilian scowls at Ceryn, "Tell me you're bad at taking hints without telling me you're bad." She complains to the man.
Ash only starts the ritual after they enter the rowboat, performing it on the floor of the little dinghy so that even if people from the ferry look, they won't see what's being done. When the cat reveals herself, Ash offers to Lilian, "And who are you?"
"Lily?" Ceryn blinks a few times, "What are you doing here of all people?" He asks with a lightly furrowed brow.
As Ash starts their ritual, Elias looks up to the sky, closing his eyes. Frost grows across the ground near his feet, going out about a foot and a half as he starts drawing magic to himself. While previously, the sky started to get more cloudy as he worked, now the clouds get even more dense, during into dark, angry clouds with lightning leaping between the clouds. And then heavy rain starts to pour down from the skies, perhaps giving more credibility to the fog rolling with the cold rain pelting down on the villa.
Taking the extra time to make prep work, Ash will soon be able to focus on the ability to call in those Mists and let them begin to wreath around the island. The natural environment of the island helps as well, as Elias has called in clouds and storm to begin brewing up above ready for him to call forth with the power of lightning. Right now the docks are abandoned, little foot traffic coming here. The Villa's entrance lies up ahead, and many discreet places along the way to take the time needed. Lilian chooses to reveal herself, in a swirl of shadow and there may be surprise, but no sense of alarm. Just another set of hands on the Job, and checking with assets or scouts will readily confirm that, if not much else about her! Now things are beginning to roll. The clouds begin to pour down some rain and the natural waters that surround the island pick up and lend to both mist and the growing rain storm! No more sunshine out, now.
"Who are you indeed," is all Victoria murmurs, idly tapping fingertips against her cheek.
It also means that time will now be of the essence. While their approach will be strong, it is all too likely that the sudden rise of these phenomenon will arouse SOME suspicion with those in the villa.
"The sun is out. And ... if you can turn into a bat just go shit on their cameras." Lilian tells Ash with a turn of her head. "You told me you were part of the final fantasy crew. My contacts at the market told me that they're going to be doing something I found interesting." There's another scowl, "Did you not read the text I sent you?" She grumbles throwing up her hands.
"Why is it always rain?" Victoria heaves a sigh, glancing to Elias. "It's never fun weather in a fun place." She wrinkles her nose at him in a faux-complaint.
"You probably knew more than I did, in that case." Ceryn levels at Lilian with a sigh, "That still doesn't explain why you decided to show up." He settles a hand on his hip, foot tapping idly as he looks to the rest.
Ash after finishing their ritual, Ash asks Lilian casually, "Why shouldn't I drown you, again? A stranger popping up on a mission that's focuses on our group, where you immediately start belittling us? You're shit at first impressions."
"At this point, who cares," Victoria waves a hand dismissively. "Deal with that later, yeah? Else we're going to get caught out here and that will be a bigger problem."
"Because you're cute and I wanted to see what your 'm friends are like." Lilian sweeping her hand through the air then sighs as the rain starts to get her dress wet. Her sapphire eyes turn towards Ash but she sends a nod towards Victoria's much wiser words.
"Because you're cute and I wanted to see what your friends are like." Lilian sweeping her hand through the air then sighs as the rain starts to get her dress wet. Her sapphire eyes turn towards Ash but she sends a nod towards Victoria's much wiser words.
"Because you try making a blizzard in at this latitude at this time of year. It is harder than you think it is." Elias says to Victoria with a grumble, shaking his head, "Trust me, I would rather it be snow or sleet." As he holds a hand out, letting the rain pelt it as he starts heading towards the villa now their screen to enter has been laid out, "We should move while the iron is hot as it were." He does stop, looking at Lilian, "Yeah. Good point. What are you doing here? I expect at the very least, show respect, if you don't, I suspect you might have some painful lessons coming your way, but as far now. I don't have time for this." He looks back towards the villa, "We need to move. If you are helping, help. If not, stay out of our way."
By Victoria's expression, it's clear she's not pleased with the exchanged words either, and the only remaining sound she makes is a soft hiss between her lips as she falls into line with Elias.
Tensions rise, but Elias and Victoria both speak wisely. The mists and storm rolling in, their time to move is now, that they've begun. The sand of the beach starts to grow clumpy and wet, and the path up ahead soon turns dreary-looking, almost as dreary as it looked inviting only several minutes before.
Ceryn snaps his fingers at Elias, "The chief has a point, mission at hand, we can talk about this after." He glances over to Lilian and Ash, "No violence, no drowning people when we're being hush hush, /please/ Ash." The fellow claps his hands together once before doubling his attention at Lilian, "I'll pay you back if you give us a hand, Lily, I know you're plenty capable."
Ash nods to Elias in agreement, ready to follow him. Or even scout ahead, if he needs it. They whisper to Ceryn, though not quiet enough, "I can make it quiet. Watch our backs?" They tilt a head to Lilian, already focused as they reach the shore.
Reaching a hand skyward, lightning arcing through the air, leaping cloud to cloud and then Elias points towards a power pole outside of the villa, calling forth nature's wrath upon that high point standing out in an effort to short out the local electrical grid. Whether he can call forth enough to do it, that is another question.
"No more fainting from blood loss hmm?" Lilian turns to tell Ceryn, reaching out to brush her knuckles over his cheek. "Im happy to help studmuffin just it is day out here and I prefer to stay in animal form until you need me." She murmurs to the man softly
Ceryn draws a breath as he offers Lilian a smile, "I'm not going to explain how embarrassing this is, but we'll talk, yeah?" Nodding as he glances upwards towards the sun.
Victoria's eyes snap to Lilian, narrowing. "A...you're kidding me," she says in a low tone. "Fantastic."
Ash nods sadly to Victoria. "At least she wears perfume."
Lilian gives Ceryn a wide eyes innocent look as the rain pours down around them, "Oops." She tells him with a shrug of her shoulders that says it's a bit too late now. A glance is cast towards Ash and Victoria before she leans back in towards Ceryn.
Victoria[OOC] Can we please get back to the regularly scheduled plot?
Lilian gives Ceryn a pointed look before mists envelope her again.
As the afternoon wears on, a sense of unease spreads over the villa, the sky gradually darkening as heavy, ominous clouds gather on the horizon. What began as a tranquil day is now overshadowed by the impending storm. The mist starts to roll in, weaving through the wooded grounds and settling over the landscape like a ghostly shroud. The air grows heavy with moisture, and the distinct smell of rain permeates the surroundings, mingling with the fragrant aroma of blooming flowers and fresh earth. The once bright sky is now a canvas of deep grays, the clouds churning and roiling with a menacing energy. The wind picks up, rustling the leaves and causing the ancient trees to sway, their branches creaking under the mounting pressure. The temperature drops, and a chill runs through the air as the first rumbles of thunder echo in the distance, a low, ominous warning of what is to come.
Mist thickens, obscuring the familiar paths and blurring the outlines of the villa's grand architecture. The torches lining the path flicker wildly, their flames struggling against the gusting wind. The lights within the villa cast feeble, distorted beams through the mist, barely penetrating the dense shroud. The storm clouds continue to advance, darkening the afternoon sky and casting an eerie twilight over the scene. As the storm intensifies, bolts of lightning streak across the sky, illuminating the turbulent clouds in stark, blinding flashes. Each crack of thunder follows more swiftly than the last, reverberating through the air and shaking the ground. The storm reaches its peak, and the atmosphere is charged with electricity, the tension almost tangible.
Suddenly, a brilliant flash of lightning tears through the sky, a jagged spear of white-hot energy that seems almost sentient in its aim. It strikes with Fortunate accuracy, connecting with a critical power pole that supplies the villa's security systems. The explosion is instantaneous, a blinding light and deafening crash that sends sparks flying and debris raining down. The air is filled with the acrid smell of burning insulation and the sharp crackle of short-circuiting wires. The villa is plunged into darkness as the power is cut, the once-vigilant security systems now rendered useless. The hum of cameras, the subtle whirr of motion sensors, and the steady beep of alarms all fall silent, leaving an eerie quiet in their wake. The only light comes from the sporadic flashes of lightning, casting brief, strobe-like illuminations across the scene of chaos.
Rain begins to fall in heavy sheets, pounding against the roof and windows of the villa. The wind howls through the trees, carrying the sounds of snapping branches and whipping leaves. The mist, now mingled with rain, swirls and dances in the tempest, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere that has descended upon the villa. Inside, the inhabitants scramble to respond to the sudden blackout, their movements quick and frantic. Emergency lights flicker on, casting dim, uneven glows that do little to pierce the pervasive darkness. The security team mobilizes, their radios crackling with hurried commands as they work to assess the damage and restore order. But the storm, relentless and unforgiving, continues to rage outside, nature's fury unleashed in a spectacular display of power that leaves no doubt of its supremacy. Now is the time for the Fortune to strike.
Black wings flare out in a flutter as without a sound Lilian(corvus) turns and sweeps through the rain towards the island, keen eyes scouting as it moves almost invisibly against the grey clouds.
Lilian(corvus)(ooc) Uhh thats weird.
knows this happens with animal forms. What isi t.
The room doesn't count as a 'natural' format room which is why it's not showing up correctly. Don't worry about it.
With the conversation cut by Elias's show of elemental command, Ceryn darts his attention away from the petty squabbling and over to the villa, eyes darting back and forth before settling back on the group. "Alright, now or never I suppose," He mutters to himself, fingers nervously fidgeting with the string of his bow.
Victoria slips along behind Elias, blending in the best she can in her attempts to remain noiseless.
OOC: Everyone can move north when they are ready to emote their 'assault' beginning and so on!
While not making any effort to draw attention to him, Elias doesn't make much effort to actual conceal himself beyond just moving with purpose towards the objective with the weather elements providing cover for his movements with a degree of confidence that the man often carries himself with. He does keep his voice low, "Lets move in. For the honor and glory of the Forged." He says, without actually declaring it in his normal battle cry.
Ash nods the rest of the forged, then deftly climbs up a tree to enact part two of their stealth mission, hiding as they perform a quick shadowcloak ritual otu of sight.
wants to make sure he catches everyone's post sorry!
saw Ash putting on his cloak.
Lilian(corvus) flies slightly ahead and above of the group, scouting the landscape for guards and movements. Her wings soar through the air as she glides almost silently with the gusts from the storm.
Now the storm's fury continues to rage outside, casting an eerie twilight over the villa as the infiltrating group makes their move. The once-imposing security systems are now in disarray, the blackout plunging the estate into chaos. The air is thick with tension, punctuated by the occasional flash of lightning that illuminates the scene in stark, blinding bursts. The infiltrators move with purpose, their dark silhouettes blending seamlessly with the shadows as they approach the villa's perimeter. Inside the villa, the security team scrambles to respond to the sudden power outage. Guards, usually composed and vigilant, are now frantically communicating through their radios, their voices tinged with urgency and confusion. but even the radios aren't working very reliably, the static charge in the air messing with their reception. The central monitoring room, once a hub of activity, is now a scene of disarray. Screens flicker erratically, displaying static and distorted images as the backup generators struggle to kick in. The hum of machinery is replaced by the sporadic crackle of short-circuiting wires, and the acrid smell of burning insulation hangs heavy in the air.
Sparks fly from damaged electrical panels, casting brief, fiery glows that illuminate the worried faces of the security personnel. The emergency lights flicker on and off, casting long, shifting shadows that add to the sense of unease. The guards, armed and alert, move through the dimly lit corridors, their footsteps echoing off the stone walls. They check doors and windows, their flashlights cutting through the darkness as they search for any signs of intrusion. Inside the villa, the guards continue their frantic efforts to restore order. They work to reroute power, their hands moving quickly over control panels and circuit breakers. The backup generators finally kick in, providing a temporary reprieve from the darkness, but the damage is done. The infiltrators are already inside, their presence undetected amidst the chaos.
The goal is simple: Get the cup and get out. Tearing down what resistance can be taken care of is useful, but it's not paramount. As the assault begins, the sun is beginning to go down and sink below the horizon! This will help their cause.
Ash walks near silence, trying to keep Elias and Ceryn in their sights while following Victoria's capable steps. Their eyes glance around, pausing on the guesthouse, then glancing at the main house, as best they can see them both. Both seem likely, and they whisper as much to their friends, using the din of chaos to cover their low tones.
Victoria turns her eyes to the guesthouse first, then sweeps her gaze to the main house, chewing absently on her lower lip in thought.
Ceryn follows closely behind Ash, a single arrow knocked onto their bow as their eyes frantically glance back and forth, peering into the darkness. Occasionally, he look over to Elias, waiting for any instructions, verbal or otherwise.
Lilian(corvus) lands once they make their way inside, finding a small corner to shift back to human. She too, cloaks herself with shadows with a quick ritual before shifting back to the bengal cat.
"I believe we need to head into the guest house and there is a hidden passage in there right?" Elias asks to Ash, rubbing his chin thoughtfully for a moment as he pauses to consider the next action as chaos rages around them.
Ash will find it easiest to slip through the confusion, with his cloak and the cameras down. Ceryn is likely to stick close to them and Lilian has a literal bird's eye view of the situation up above. The bird in flight can easily see the disarray down below, the unexpected strike of lightning called forth by Elias putting everything into chaos with one well-timed and fortunate strike. This is what it's like when those around you can bend the will of Luck to your favor! What will the Fortune do? They can smash into the defenses and take thier time or bee-line directly for the main house, where they're sure to find some sense of the where they'll need to go from there. Ceryn, Elias and Victoria will have to rush their way through the chaos - Ash and Lilian have free reign to make their way inside the main house before the rest. A cat is easily unnoticed in the hub bub of things, and without the cameras on easy backup, Ash's cloak does all the heavy lifting there, not including their own naturally gifted stealth talents. Their information mentioned hidden passages all throughout the compound, and yes ones that connect the guest house to the main house and beyond.
Whilst she can dash ahead Lilian(bengal) doesn't, choosing to stick near Ceryn, darting through the shadows and scouting around the corners to make sure the coast is clear before the group progresses. A tail held high with her going around the corner shows clear passage while a hiss and her darting towards them may indicate to hide
Ash nods to Elias, then leads with tugged hands and shoulders if needed to ensure that they're family is following, to the guest house, where they expect there to be less chaos. Maybe an entitled prick in the hallways complaining as if he or she is the priority, but the group could probably slip past, or pretend to be employees... Scuzi? Scusa? One of those words, mumbled, seems like an Italian thing.
To the tunnels, then through to the main house, so that even the less stealthy can make it inside of the main villa fine. Victoria at least has the eyesight to duck and dodge, so they focus on Elias and Ceryn the most.
Making his way through the prescribed path in which the instructions they were provided, presumably following them until any kind of hiccup is encountered within the process. Elias makes his way onward, watching his surroundings carefully, his hand on the hilt of his sword the entire way, ready to strike if the need arises.
Choosing their path, the group makes their way into the guest house. Amongst all the chaos - there's no difficulty really for any of them to find trouble doing so without being picked up by security for now. With the best dark vision, Victoria takes the lead as they make their way through those tunnels. Footsteps are nearly silent on the moss-covered floor, each step carefully placed to avoid detection. The walls of the tunnel are lined with age-worn stone, their rough surfaces telling tales of centuries gone by. You follow the twisting path, your senses heightened as you listen for any signs of danger. The glow of the torches casts eerie shadows on the walls, creating an atmosphere of tense anticipation. As you progress, you come to a section of the tunnel appears slightly different, the stones newer and the floor more even. Halting, someone might crouch down to inspect the area. Hidden mechanisms are barely visible beneath a layer of dirt and grime, revealing a pressure plate that would activate a concealed trap. Between the group. Lilian(bengal) is able to walk across the plate just fine in her feline form, the weight of her is not enough to trigger it. It's designed to stop human beings, not small creatures.
The tunnel splits into multiple directions, and the group has to consult the intel one of your allies holds. Following the path that leads to the main house, you navigate through narrower passageways, the air growing colder and the scent of moisture more pronounced. The sounds of distant dripping and the occasional rustle of unseen creatures add to the tension of your journey. The tunnel finally begins to incline upwards, indicating that you are nearing the main house. The air is fresher here, carrying faint hints of the aromas from the kitchens above. The last stretch is a narrow, winding staircase that spirals upwards, the stone steps worn smooth by countless footsteps over the years.
At the top of the staircase, you find the concealed door. A heavy wooden panel adorned with ancient carvings, it requires a specific sequence of pressure points to unlock. The combination you've been given here is good, the door creaking open to reveal the dimly lit interior of the villas library. The scent of old books and polished wood greets you, a stark contrast to the musty tunnels below. You step into the library, closing the secret entrance behind you. The room is quiet, the only sounds the faint crackle of a distant fire and the occasional rustle of pages as the breeze from an open window stirs the books. The mission is far from over, but you have successfully navigated the underground maze and breached the villas inner sanctum. With a sense of accomplishment and anticipation, you signal to your team, ready to continue the next phase of your infiltration. It's pretty clear this isn't so far from what you're looking for already. Many fine things are on display on shelves and in between stacks and bookshelves here.
Looking around, the Library might hold other secrets, other bookcases that move out of the way, a simple search might reveal interesting things. Then again there's plenty to look at in here. No cup, though.
Curiously, Ceryn begins to pad around the library. While more modern or earth literature might be plenty foreign for him, he keeps his eyes peeled for anything that potentially looks familiar to his faeling eyes. Yet, he only allows himself a small amount of time, not giving into the temptation to be distracted for the search for more on-topic clues to the relic.
A meowed warning is given to the group when Lilian(bengal) picks her way between the pressure plates, with her face rather close to the ground Lilian(bengal) can tell the fine outlines especially as she walks past them deftly.
Once they reach the library, the cat jumps up onto one of the shelves to give herself a birds eye view of the place.
Frowning, Victoria takes a quick inventory before turning toward Elias with a silent shake of her head as she realizes what they came for is not in sight.
Ceryn will find plenty to pique his interest, here. This man collects a great many things and knowledge is the most powerful of all. Occult volumes and tomes reside among the shelves, tempting and waiting to be re-discovered for the first time ..
While the others look for the object at hand, Elias does not, but instead he keeps an eye out for roaming security patrols. Making his way slowly towards the entrance to the room, listening for any signs of anyone in close proximity.
Ash looks over the books as they move, looking with a longing expression as they run the back of their first knuckles over the spines, before moving back to Elias, shaking their head. For one, they point to Lilian(bengal), then further in the building, with a curious expression to the group - not that the cat hasn't already been scouting, but sometimes, it's better to confirm. Further in may be uncharted territory, after all.
Lilian(bengal) scans the room regally from ontop of one of the tallest bookshelves as well, occasionally jumping from bookshelf to bookshelf as she tries to see if there's anything of interest along with making sure no one is sneaking up on them. With Ash's pointing, she jumps from shelf to shelf, trusting no one will be keeping booby traps many metres high in the air as she goes to scout deeper into the room.
Ash nods to Lilian(bengal) with respect, before preparing to move on at Elias' command or signal.
A search of the room will indeed discover several bookshelves with small sliding mechanisms that Lilian(bengal) can spy out with sharp eyes scanning from atop. It will take a moment to search their shelves fore the appropriate book, but this villa is nothing if not traditional in its style. Elias keeps out a good eye and he can hear voices clamoring from down the hall. They don't sound like they're comiong closer yet but they're close enough to grab the man's attention that's for sure. ALong the shelves go Ash and someone cat and there's a swift and effecient search that ensues. They're left with three viable choices not including the way they came in. The main entrance, leading into the Villa, Elias watching this exit carefully. The pair searching discover two more hidden passages, waiting to be opened while Victoria and Ceryn maintain a central position ready to react to whoever needs help at a moment's notice!
A search of the room will indeed discover several bookshelves with small sliding mechanisms that Lilian(bengal) can spy out with sharp eyes scanning from atop. It will take a moment to search their shelves fore the appropriate book, but this villa is nothing if not traditional in its style. Elias keeps out a good eye and he can hear voices clamoring from down the hall. They don't sound like they're comiong closer yet but they're close enough to grab the man's attention that's for sure. ALong the shelves go Ash and the cat and there's a swift and effecient search that ensues. They're left with three viable choices not including the way they came in. The main entrance, leading into the Villa, Elias watching this exit carefully. The pair searching discover two more hidden passages, waiting to be opened while Victoria and Ceryn maintain a central position ready to react to whoever needs help at a moment's notice!
Elias, Ash, Ceryn, and Lilian(bengal) will all feel ... an instictive lean to choose the hidden passage leading westward.
A meow is given towards Ash when Lilian(bengal) spots the first hinge on the ceiling. She scratches at it to make Ash aware before her darting around finds the other hinge towards the west. Another meow seeks to catch the group's attention as the cat prowls the top of the bookshelf, waiting to see which path the group chooses.
Indeed, Elias did have an instinct to press on through the secret tunnel in which they haven't explore yet instead of tromping down the hallway. The stormcaller speaks quietly to Ash, "Don't we have a solution to which book we need to move to open the next tunnel?" He asks Ash, gesturing them ontwards to open the passage.
Almost unconsciously, Ceryn begins to wander over to the western side, eyes peeking through to give attention to any reveal as he gets closer.
That pull seems to effect those more magically inclined, but it's Victoria's senses that will pick up the scent of gunpowder behind that western bookcase. It will take a precious couple of minutes to start trying books - but it won't take them that long, with all of them working toward it with quick hands. The gunpowder probably means some sort of trap lurking back there, but traps mean valueables.
Ash moves to the switch for the western passage, relying on Lilian(bengal)'s scouting before beckoning the others silently - likely unaware that there's no need to, since others would also be pulled, and Victoria likely moves in tune with the rest, as expected. They understand why Elias tells them to go first, though - must be nice to have a good luck charm on hand!
Victoria gives a sharp hiss, shaking her head as she heads toward the books. "It's not just books," she states with a sharp inhale of breath.
Lilian(bengal) jumps to the next bookcase along, just incase the bookcase slides into the wall or blows up or something when the group approaches to open it.
"We need to open it, but we need to be out of range and careful," Victoria frowns, subtly taking another inhale as she surveys the bookcase.
Lilian(bengal) prowls along the top of the wall, cat ears twitching as she listens out for approaching voices. At Victoria's words she jumps another bookcase for a little distance. Just incase.
The dark haired mercenary doesn't make any effort to move away from Ash's potentially explosive actions, but instead, just maintains his vigilant watch, glancing between Ash and the doorway which he is maintaining his post over. Elias gives Ash a nod, before noting, "Be careful."
"I'm guessing there's nightmare wards up?" Ceryn muses, standing back as they make their decision, "If there's a trap, would be nice if we could get a good look at it somehow."
Finding the book, Ash and the others will let the Faeborn go first. But even luck has it's limits. Despite Victoria's warning there's not really a lot they can do about it .. until Ash pulls out some lockpicking tools. So it's a careful opening of the bookcase. An inch once the book is pulled and the catch releases, before there's subtle tension. The careful approach lets them denote a thin, almost invisible wire. It's going to be a careful stretch through a thin crack to try and snip it, though.
OOC - Is working to wrap this up for folks as well, so we don't drag on too much further!
Ash relies on the steady hands they use for rituals' exact movement, as well as their skill in... well, playing games. It's best they can rely on as they... snip.
Being the slenderest of them - SRKah will have to use the reach of his tools... the snip catches the wire but it doesn't cut it! The shotgun it's attached to BOOMS off, ripping through the heavy wood of the bookcase, and shredding into paper that contains who knows what secrets! Since they've got the thing propped just open though, it acts a shield against the damage of the lead projectiles - but that sound is NOT going unnoticed. Once the debris flutters to the ground ... Ash can be reasonably sure the coast is clear to continue.
[SECURITY] Has now been alerted you have a metaphorical five minutes or so before several heavily armed men storm the library looking for the disturbance.
Ash grumbles, then rushes forward, hissing, "Sorry!"
"Let's find it and get out of here," Victoria shakes her head to Ash. "No being sorry."
flinches as the sudden thundercrack of gunfire cuts through the air. "Shit." He mutters, "Do we have a secondary exit by the by? I think I could block off some of the others, buy us some time." Ceryn puts forward as he glances over to Elias.
"Well, lets move. That will get noticed. We will do what we need too, but we knew we were on a quick time table anyway. This changes nothing, lets grab it and go." Elias says as he starts heading towards Ash, abandoning his post and preparing to head through the passage way.
"We could fortify the door, but at this point, we are just better off grabbing the artifact and pathing out." Elias explains to Ceryn as he makes his way over.
Deep within the labyrinthine tunnels beneath the grand Italian villa lies a secret treasure room, a hidden chamber that holds the most valuable and mysterious artifacts collected over centuries. This clandestine vault is accessible only through a series of intricate mechanisms and hidden doors, encountering less of them the deeper the tunnels go. As you step into the treasure room, the air feels cooler, almost sacred, charged with the weight of history and the aura of precious relics. The walls are lined with polished mahogany shelves and glass-fronted cabinets, each meticulously organized and filled with a dazzling array of treasures. The soft, ambient lighting is strategically placed to highlight the brilliance of the collection, casting a gentle glow that accentuates the fine details of each artifact. The sound of Bootfalls can be heard off in the distance, perhaps heading down the tunnel even now.
Gilded idols from forgotten civilizations stand proudly on pedestals, their intricate designs glinting in the low light. Delicate scrolls and manuscripts, their parchment edges frayed with age, are displayed in protective cases, their ancient texts hinting at long-lost knowledge. Jewel-encrusted ceremonial daggers, ornate chalices, and precious gemstones are arranged in a mesmerizing display of wealth and artistry. The room exudes a sense of both opulence and mystique, with each piece telling its own story of adventure and acquisition. The centerpiece of the room, however, is the diatretum cage-cup, known to some as the Slaughterer's Chalice. This masterpiece of ancient glasswork is displayed in a special glass case in the center of the room, commanding attention with its intricate and delicate design. The diatretum, a type of Roman luxury glass, features a remarkable latticework of fine, interwoven glass threads that encase a perfectly formed cup. The craftsmanship is so exquisite that it appears almost otherworldly, the glass seemingly defying the boundaries of possibility.
The diatretum cage-cup glows with an ethereal light, its translucent surface catching and refracting the ambient illumination, creating a mesmerizing play of colors and shadows. The latticework is adorned with tiny, precise carvings of mythological scenes and symbols, each one adding to the cup's enigmatic allure. The centerpiece is not only a marvel of ancient artistry but also a vessel of immense historical significance, whispered to have been used in dark rituals and ceremonies. As you take in the sight of this extraordinary artifact, the atmosphere is one of awe and reverence, with each piece in the collection contributing to the sense of wonder and discovery. And so there it is - within reach, behind a cage of glass.
Lilian(bengal) does the started cat thing where she rises up all fuzzy lick with her back arched when the boom goes off. A further meow is given at the sound of security coming and she jumps to the ground, darting through the passage before the group can even push it wide enough to make their way through. She paces her way carefully using her nightvision to warn the others following of traps before they come upon the treasure room.
"If it's pathing, then yeah, it's not like we need to worry too much about a way out." Ceryn notes to himself, digging hands into his jacket pockets and pulling out a handful of seeds, "Really should set on organizing these..." He mutters to himself as he pricks his thumb on his knife.
As the group makes their way through the passageways, Ceryn sprinkles the odd seed here and there, blooddrops that splatter from his cut quickly being traced into patterns by his footwork. Once they reach the chamber, he adjusts his glove and murmurs a few hushed words under his breath, finally setting the gathered vitae in the patterns loose to erupt into a tangle of wildflower, ivy, brambles and underbrush.
"Ash, get the cup, be careful. It is likely trapped too, but I know you got this. Vic, come with me, we are going to make sure nothing makes it through this doorway alive." Elias says as he starts to make his way towards the entrance to the room, even though Ceryn's plants will likely slow down the pursuers, but depending on the strengths of the guards, it might not be enough to stop them completely. He glances back to Ceryn, "You should probably help Ash, if it is warded, they likely will need assistance in breaking them."
A clever move by Ceryn will buy them a little bit of time, here! His quick thinking will choke up the passageway behind them, forcing the security to work their way through tangled vines and excessive growth that shouldn't be there. A precious few minutes it might be, too. Luckily if anyone checks - either the power surge effected wards, or the wards were more rumor than fact for the feeling of those tendrils that will slowly coalesce into a pathway can be felt and called upon. Lilian(bengal) doesn't find any traps thankfully, just the procession of doors they work through.
"Right," Victoria states, notching an arrow in her bow and swiftly moving alongside Elias.
Ceryn flashes a thumbs-up to Elias before stepping over to Ash, "Just let me know what needs doing, aye?" He passes along to them, standing by as he places a superficial band-aid over the prick on his thumb.
Once everyone is in position, the cat turns again into Lilian, looking as if she was ready to go on a date rather than crawling through tunnels. Nevertheless her aurashifting makes it so that her dress and appearance are flawless as she crouches down around the egg. A glance is given towards Ceryn at the scent of blood but she puts her not unformidable arcane powers at work to detect wards and traps around the cup.
Ash checks the case with the cup in it quickly, looking for a latch or an unusually thick base to high noxious gas when the internal pressure changes - or something. Otherwise, there's no reason not to just smash the glass open - not like there's a point in being surreptitious anymore. After either working against a traps and wards to open the case, or finding no barrier and just smashing the glass, with Ceryn's help.
While Ash and Lilian with Ceryn's help observe the glass cage at the cup - there's nothing that jumps out immediately to their magical senses. And Ash is checking for technological traps as well, ever one not to underestimate the power of simple human ingenuity as well. No - it looks like this far in , all they have to do is smash the glass, and not the cup of course! They cannot damage the cup in any way, not so much as a scratch across its surface! Careful application of force should do the trick, though. Then it's just baout making it out. While they watch on , Elias and Victoria see what appears to be at least a dozen men shoving their way through the last of underbrush down a long stretch of tunnel slash hallway. Classic thuggish security types, the only thing missing for them would be tommy guns instead of the street sweepers they seem to be carrying! The first of them can spot Elias and Victoria easily enough, already shouting in Italian and motioning forward - raising his gun!
Without hesitation Victoria draws an arrow and lets it loose before moving to the side. "Hey, you two might want to grab that," she calls over her shoulder with a hint of urgency. "They don't look happy."
Shadows start to bend and twist around Elias as he starts to draw upon his magic, causing the temperature to plummet around him, having an equally cold look painted on his face as he faces these guards. Blueish-white lightly leaps from his fingertips, blasting down the hallway with his sorcerous magic.
Ceryn turns on his heel, bow becoming unslung from his back as he knocks an arrow, "They were faster than I wanted." He sighs, pulling the bowstring taut as crackling lightning arcs down the hallway. Taking a moment, he looks down at his own, feeling a little underdressed at that moment.
Ash will indeed engage in careful application fo force so as not to damage the cup. "Yeah, just needed to make sure we don't choke on toxic gas, and all... yeah, that should do it." After opening it, Ash takes the cup out carefully, gingerly, before tucking it tightly into their bag - then shifting into a bat, as Lilian already predicted. They start working on a path, looking goofy as a tiny cotton ball squeaking as they use their supernatural blood to open the Ley Path back to Haven.
Lilian moves back to allow someone and Ceryn to figure out how to get the object out of the glass without smashing it. Her head turns at the first sound of a gunshot and Elias's magic. Her hand lifts gracefully and the guards at the forefront might find themselves blind, with blood shot eyes and blood pouring from their nostrils. She steps out of the way then, making sure that they don't have an angle to get a shot on her.
Lilian moves back to allow thr androgyne and Ceryn to figure out how to get the object out of the glass without smashing it. Her head turns at the first sound of a gunshot and Elias's magic. Her hand lifts gracefully and the guards at the forefront might find themselves blind, with blood shot eyes and blood pouring from their nostrils. She steps out of the way then, making sure that they don't have an angle to get a shot on her.
"Who ever is focusing on a building a path, make sure to touch me before you leave, I am going to need to get dragged out of here. I won't be able to focus." Elias says as he keeps hurling powerful mixtures of winds, ice, and lightning at the advancing foes.
Ash(bat) flutters over to Elias, hanging upside down from the collar of his shirt - digging under the gaiter to specifically hook onto his shirt collar. Even if it was just his Battle Dress shirt.
Elias' true reason for being here tonight becomes apparent as well as Victoria. Her arrow goes streaking through the air to tag into a guard's thigh with precision and icey cold magic comes ripping down the hallways now. The scream of men feeling the touch of frostbite and cold creep into their nerves come running back down the hallways even as blood vessels burst in their eyes and leave them unable to see. Now they're easy enough pickings for the group. Ceryn's arrows join the rest and they are honestly driven back by the overkill. Before too long Ash(bat) will be able to make the path known to them, opening the Way. Lilian, Ash(bat), Ceryn, Victoria, all have an easy enough time but that cold demeanor seems to drive Elias forward. By the time someone touches him and drags him back - there's nothing left of the dozen or more men but frozen statues that look like crudely carved sculptures. A statement indeed, to leave behind.
OOC: Alright! Thank you so much for participating tonight! The good planning meant that more of my heavier stuff did not have to come into play which worked out well! Peoiple should throw their lasting emotes and prepare anythign they might like for rewards if they have the XP to spend! I will take a moment to congratulate Ceryn for his first adventure and rolling with the punches! He did well to assist the group without pushing beyond his means! While small in nature, that clever trick at the end really let me make it easier to hold back the guards instead of bringing it to melee! A plethora of magic users made it tricky to shine any one person but hopefully nobody felt too left out!
With a subtle touch to Elias's shoulder to make sure he and Ash(bat) are ready to leave, Victoria grins. "Nicely done," she says to the man before turning toward the path, looking rather relaxed as she makes her way off.
Ash(bat) offers a wing to Ceryn, so they can 'hold hands' through the path, ensuring that he doesn't get lost.
Lilian turns back into a cat and jumps on Ceryn's shoulder, letting him carry her through the path rather then walk it herself.
Ceryn cant help but chuckle lightly at the talking bat, hand clasping the bat's paw in turn.
As always, respect for the Way is paramount and Ash(bat) doesn't forget. Ceryn will be kept well to the middle of that strange road through a forest that isn't. He doesn't want to know what happens to those who fall from the path. Nobody does.
Getting swept away within the storm brewing within, Elias unleashing that storm from within at those that forced their way down the hallway, it takes a moment to snap himself out of it as he is dragged away through the pathways, and finding himself back to where they started, but this time, with the artifact that they were pursing. He looks to the others with a small smile, "Cleanly done. Well job everyone."
Elias says "And well done."
When they are out on the otherside, Lilian(bengal) jumps off of Ceryn's shoulders before shifting back into her human self. The sun is down which means she can shed her sunnys and cloak.
SRKah says "ALright. To expediate - if anyone has reward needs prepare them now and let me know what I can do. I will collect these PRIOR to finishing the plot etc. so I can take care of them timely and without anyone having to wait too long if they have to go quickly. "
Lilian takes a stick of gum from her bag, unwrapping it before popping the gum in her mouth, chewing thoughtfully as she looks over the group once they've reappeared on the other side. "Like Ryn mentioned. I'm Lily." She says by way of introduction.