Craco

Entreri Parasite - #04

Feb 7th, 2018
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  1.  
  2. "CITIZENS OF AVALON!"
  3.  
  4. Adrian clears his throat.
  5.  
  6. "I have a public service announcement to make on behalf of the research and development department. We are manufacturing a biological weapon. All residents of this colony are to receive a mandatory runic brand."
  7.  
  8. "This brand will protect you from said biological weapon."
  9. (Adrian Montbell)
  10.  
  11. Adrian Montbell says in a booming voice, "So, if you'd all be so kind as to line up. Unless you want to get sick."
  12.  
  13. Sarah Bly says, "Ffffffuck."
  14.  
  15. Juliette Harrengate says, "Ohwhatthefuck."
  16.  
  17. Sarah Bly says, "My ears."
  18.  
  19. Roland Barrett says, "Ow."
  20.  
  21. Rebecca flings a bubble at Adrian.
  22. (Rebecca Ravenseer)
  23.  
  24. Juliette gets first in line!
  25. (Juliette Harrengate)
  26.  
  27.  
  28. Catalina wakes, and tears roll down her cheeks.
  29. (Catalina Antonescu)
  30.  
  31. Catalina Antonescu says, "S..o l-lou..d.."
  32.  
  33. Adrian Montbell says in a booming voice, "Form a line inside."
  34.  
  35. Sarah Bly says, "Wow, this sounds like a REALLY fucking stupid idea."
  36.  
  37. Vexx digs his pinky into his ear as he hear's Adrian's roars...
  38. (Vexx Vincent)
  39.  
  40. Juliette does not seem to cover her ears, only the weak do that.
  41. (Juliette Harrengate)
  42.  
  43. Juliette is definitely not having a good time, though.
  44. (Juliette Harrengate)
  45.  
  46. Vexx sighs.
  47. (Vexx Vincent)
  48.  
  49. Sarah Bly says, "A bit of fucking warning before you just pick up the person I'm supposed to be protecting and carry her off, asshole."
  50.  
  51. Sarah Bly says, "Make sure she doesn't get hurt."
  52.  
  53. Adrian looks back towards Eldwyn. He motions for the Director to hand him the appropriate amount of vials. Once all was said and done, the scholar gestured for Juliette to roll up her sleeve.
  54.  
  55. He needed a canvas to work on.
  56.  
  57. Assuming that she adhered to his directives, he'd waste on time in beginning the procedure. A runic circle appears in the air above her wrist. It's design is intricate, ornate, almost regal.
  58.  
  59. It was identical to the brand on Eldwyn's wrist, had anyone noticed it prior.
  60.  
  61. The mana is etched into her skin. The process is relatively quick. Written in a holy magic scripture, combined with water magic infused with Sarradian essence.
  62.  
  63. It was quite soothing, really.
  64. (Adrian Montbell)
  65.  
  66. Adrian Montbell says in a booming voice, "Next."
  67.  
  68. Akari asks, "The point of this is?"
  69.  
  70. Juliette Harrengate says, "M-My ears..."
  71.  
  72. Seems very nervious.
  73. (Malachai)
  74.  
  75. Juliette seems unbothered by being branded.
  76. (Juliette Harrengate)
  77.  
  78. Vexx Vincent says, "This is a awful line..."
  79.  
  80. Juliette Harrengate asks, "Couldn't the brand be somewhere else?"
  81.  
  82. "W-Wh..y. So lo..ud. I just w-wan..ted to sleep."
  83. (Catalina Antonescu)
  84.  
  85. He shows his wrist or hand. unsure what to do. being part of the bulwark tho.
  86. (Malachai)
  87.  
  88. Erik Drakanov says, "Errr..... so what's going on?..."
  89.  
  90. Roland Barrett says, "Move up the line, Dawei."
  91.  
  92. Akari says, "Mass branding for some kind of weapon apparently..."
  93.  
  94. Vexx Vincent says, "Something about weapons."
  95.  
  96. Drew Idd asks, "Why's everyone in here?"
  97.  
  98. Catalina Antonescu says, "Th..e bacon m-mad..e a biological w-wea..pon."
  99.  
  100. Roland Barrett says, "Biological weapon, runic brand to keep us from getting infected."
  101.  
  102. Drew Idd says, "..."
  103.  
  104. Rebecca Ravenseer asks, "What IS the weapon, Adrian?"
  105.  
  106. Erik Drakanov asks, "Eh?"
  107.  
  108. Vexx Vincent says, "I dissaprove in the creation of weapons..."
  109.  
  110. Roland Barrett says, "Every day stuff, Drew."
  111.  
  112. Eldwyn returned from the back left room, carrying an open crate which contained many vials of sarridian blood. Oops! Don't tell Acha.
  113.  
  114. "Here's all of Acha's blood donations that we have so far. Should be plenty for this many people. I might need time for some more to do a second round of immunisation."
  115.  
  116. He places the crate by Adrian's feet.
  117. (Eldwyn)
  118.  
  119. Drew Idd says, "Eh. Whatever. Carry on."
  120.  
  121. Erik Drakanov says, "Looks like holy magic..."
  122.  
  123. Adrian Montbell says in a booming voice, "A contingency in case Jianghu decides to wage war again."
  124.  
  125. Roland Barrett exclaims, "WHY DID YOU TAKE THE MANDRAKE, MONTBELL?!"
  126.  
  127. Erik Drakanov says, "Could you stop that... it's ringing in my ears..."
  128.  
  129. Gulps at the word holy magic and attempts to gulp of the war.
  130. (Malachai)
  131.  
  132. Akari groaned and covered her ears.
  133.  
  134. "You are fucking dumb for taking one of those potions..."
  135. (Akari)
  136.  
  137. Adrian repeats the same exact process on the person in front of him. Beautiful displays of runic geometries fill the air once more. Water and golden light exudes from the small rune etched onto his wrist.
  138.  
  139. "Next."
  140. (Adrian Montbell)
  141.  
  142. Eldwyn says, "It's an important matter. Adrian needed everyone's complete attention."
  143.  
  144. Eldwyn says, "My potion helped with that."
  145.  
  146. Akari exclaims, "You're fucking insane for giving him that!"
  147.  
  148. Adrian Montbell says, "The effects have warn off. Relax."
  149.  
  150. Eldwyn shrugs.
  151. (Eldwyn)
  152.  
  153. Curiously rubbed his wirst,
  154. (Malachai)
  155.  
  156. Vexx Vincent says, "I feel Adrian's voice is very pleasnt."
  157.  
  158. Adrian Montbell says, "I love you, Vexx."
  159.  
  160. Vexx Vincent says, "Thank you Mr. Montbell, I adore you too."
  161.  
  162. Erik would come forward as he takes out his hand, seemingly his attire bore no sleeves.
  163.  
  164. "I hope this doesn't effect negatively to occult users..."
  165. (Erik Drakanov)
  166.  
  167. Vexx smiles slightly.
  168. (Vexx Vincent)
  169.  
  170. Malachai says, "What does this... rune do?..."
  171.  
  172. Eldwyn says, "It's one-time-use."
  173.  
  174. "Adrian Fucking Montbell, what the FUCK are you doing."
  175. (Istvan Boldizsar)
  176.  
  177. Eldwyn says, "If the R&D's experimental... idea, backfires. You have a cure, right there."
  178.  
  179. Eldwyn says, "It's for your safety."
  180.  
  181. Adrian shakes his head.
  182.  
  183. "No. It will not negatively effect occult magi. You needn't worry. There are no detrimental side effects whatsoever."
  184.  
  185. More mana flows to his finger tips, and again-- the process is repeated. Complex arcs of water infused with Sarradian blood twirl into the runic arrays, which upon being etched into his skin, glow a golden light.
  186.  
  187. He looks up towards Istvan and smiles.
  188.  
  189. "Contingencies, Istvan."
  190. (Adrian Montbell)
  191.  
  192. Alfred merely managed to stumble upon this gathering as he searched for this father in hopes that he had some free time. Alas, father was always a busy man so that was nothing but a pipe dream. A sigh leaves his mouth as he looks at the large line of people wishing to speak with the man.
  193.  
  194. " Tsk. " Irritated by the sight, he kicked at the ground and would make his way over to the side. It was there he would sigh for a moment, leaning back against the wall as he watched his father from away. He was always so distant, so out of reach that he couldn't help look up to him.
  195.  
  196. " This is dumb..." he grumbles as he pushes his hands in his pocket.
  197. (Alfred Montbell )
  198.  
  199. Vexx Vincent says, "You have a very loud voice istvaan."
  200.  
  201. Rebecca Ravenseer says, "A question i ask myself every day, Istvan..."
  202.  
  203. Akari says, "I don't trust any random brandings..."
  204.  
  205. Akari says, "You came up...took a mandrake potion...and screamed about everyone needing to be branded..."
  206.  
  207. Akari says, "Without explaining anything at all."
  208.  
  209. Akari says, "Other than vague details."
  210.  
  211. Vexx Vincent says, "Adrian has never hurt anyone of Valmaisa, I trust him with all of my being."
  212.  
  213. Vexx Vincent says, "Though I still dislike the idea of making weapons of war..."
  214.  
  215. Istvan Boldizsar asks, "What the-- Vexx???"
  216.  
  217. Erik could feel an itch as the rune was placed on his arm. He could only wonder how long this was going to stay or was this permanent. Scratching the sides where the rune was placed without putting much contact to it he would begin to move away from the line.
  218.  
  219. "Well, better safe than sorry..."
  220.  
  221. Erik mumbled to himself.
  222. (Erik Drakanov)
  223.  
  224. Adrian Montbell says, "I did. I said, and I quote 'this is protection against a biological weapon that may or may not be used one day'."
  225.  
  226. Vexx Vincent says, "Yes, I am alive."
  227.  
  228. Akari says, "Vague."
  229.  
  230. Istvan Boldizsar says, "Wow. Incredible."
  231.  
  232. Adrian Montbell says, "I'm not giving you the details. You'll tell your Gehennan friends, dog."
  233.  
  234. Malachai says, "Uhh hai bronwyn!..."
  235.  
  236. Istvan Boldizsar says, "Anyway..."
  237.  
  238. Akari says, ". . ."
  239.  
  240. Roland Barrett exclaims, "Montbell, I've been trying to ensure that this kind of thing doesn't have to be used on the Jianghese, you fool!"
  241.  
  242. Vexx looks back to Istvan giving a small smile and a tilt of the head breifly.
  243. (Vexx Vincent)
  244.  
  245. Adrian Montbell says, "This likely isn't ever going to be used."
  246.  
  247. Adrian Montbell says, "But, if they try to wage war again, I'll release it."
  248.  
  249. Adrian Montbell says, "I want to research. It's hard to find time to do that these days with conflict looming over our shoulders."
  250.  
  251. Malachai says, "Hey uhhh.. bronwyn... y-you gonna get a... rune thingy on your wrist to?.."
  252.  
  253. Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck asks, "Do what?"
  254.  
  255. Tarquin Brubeck says, "Not until I know what this whole thing is about."
  256.  
  257. Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck says, "I am just spending time with, Papa."
  258.  
  259. Vexx Vincent says, "My turn Mr. Montbell."
  260.  
  261. Shows the rune on his wrist,
  262. (Malachai)
  263.  
  264. Bronwyn oogles said rune
  265. (Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck)
  266.  
  267. Malachai says, "Oh... th-thats your dad.. n-nice to meet you mister tarquin.."
  268.  
  269. Vexx Vincent says, "It's great seeing your face in this long time, though you look quite differnt."
  270. Tarquin Brubeck says, "Hello."
  271.  
  272. Malachai says, "Its... for some infection.. we all are getting one... from what ive heard.."
  273. Malachai says, "to stay immune."
  274.  
  275. Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck says, "Odd."
  276.  
  277. Malachai says, "Uhh.. mister tarquin.. bronwyn to-told me about you!... n-nice to meet you.. i am malachai..."
  278.  
  279. Tarquin Brubeck says, "A pleasure to meet you. We'll talk more later."
  280.  
  281. Vexx Vincent asks, "Will I be getting a rune Adrian?"
  282.  
  283. Adrian Montbell says, "Yes."
  284.  
  285. Adrian Montbell says, "I can see Istvan is getting ready to say something, so I am waiting."
  286.  
  287. Malachai says, "Y-yes sir!.."
  288.  
  289. Your Supreme Leader arrives, keeping his hand on his blade and his eye on the Montbell man, jaw clenching and unclenching. It's pretty clear he's not pleased.
  290.  
  291. "Okay. I want you to stop yourself and think back a few years and a few fucking centuries, Adrian." Istvan would begin. "Do you remember the Chimera Virus? The Rust? How about the Stygian Plague?"
  292.  
  293. Stomp stomp stomp. He gets closer.
  294.  
  295. "How about when your wife tried to kill the very soil that Jianghu used to grow crops? The same thing denied TWICE OVER by myself and Teshim Otho. Biological fucking warfare? Are you out of your Goddess-damned mind? On a fucking island covered in life-altering, life-twisting divine relics?"
  296.  
  297. He looks utterly fucking shocked.
  298.  
  299. "Did you not stop and think that unleashing biological shit on this island might warp it into something YOU CANNOT CONTROL? What the FUCK is going through your mind right now?!"
  300. (Istvan Boldizsar)
  301.  
  302. Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck whispers something.
  303.  
  304. Istvan Boldizsar exclaims, "AND WE ARE ON THIS ISLAND, TOO! WE LITERALLY CONDEMN OURSELVES!"
  305.  
  306. Vexx staring at the angry horned man, Vexx moved out of his way giving him passage to scold the scholar Adrian Montbell.
  307. (Vexx Vincent)
  308.  
  309. Vexx Vincent says, "*remaining silent Istvan words did hold true, such a project could go very wrong and end in mass demise... Vexx nodded his head as he istened to his words he was never onboard with creating tools of war.* "
  310.  
  311. Vexx remaining silent Istvan words did hold true, such a project could go very wrong and end in mass demise... Vexx nodded his head as he istened to his words he was never onboard with creating tools of war.
  312. (Vexx Vincent)
  313.  
  314. "What you failed to consider, Istvan, is that it is something I can control. The method is ingenious. I would not be doing this if I did not think it was something I could control."
  315.  
  316. He begins to siphon Sarradian blood from the vials on the ground, infusing it with his water magic. A runic array appears over Vexx's wrist, and soon after it is etched into his skin.
  317.  
  318. "These brands are contingences, in the case that if I ever do plan on releasing it, our entire colony is protected. This brand is molded after the ritual I used to cure Aesperus after she was already infected."
  319.  
  320. "Mind you, this isn't something I'd ever release without the combined and unanimous vote to do so. It is very likely that it will never see the light of day."
  321. (Adrian Montbell)
  322.  
  323. Rebecca Ravenseer says, "Haven't even mentioned what this bio weapon is."
  324.  
  325. [20:59:53] Eldwyn whispers: Perhaps we should let them in a little more.
  326.  
  327. Malachai asks, "Wh-what does it do even?"
  328.  
  329. Vexx Vincent says, "I heard them talking about it the other day... His wife made it."
  330.  
  331. Adrian Montbell says, "Wh-.."
  332.  
  333. Adrian Montbell says, "Penelope did not make it, no."
  334.  
  335. Vexx Vincent says, "Oh, I'm a bad listener."
  336.  
  337. Though silent, the young man watches the entire scene from the sidelines with a somewhat distant stare. There was a lot to take in here in this moment, and he wouldn't want to miss a single detail.
  338. (Soma Boldizsar)
  339.  
  340. Vexx Vincent says, "But it is a shame that war has came to this... Fear and desperation, this is at most utter foolishness."
  341.  
  342. Bob Hatake stands witness to the session before him whilst holding onto his three month old twins, Shiro and Robin, a little male kitsune and female lightning drakanite. He'd remain impassive and listening in on the debate...or is it a trial...
  343. (Bob Hatake)
  344.  
  345.  
  346. At the mention of Aesperus's name, Tarquin chimes in.
  347.  
  348. "Waaaaait, wait, wait. Hooooold on there a moment, fritter man. You mean to tell me that you're weaponizing a parasitic fungus and you think that just because it won't affect us personally that it isn't going to do things like kill our crops and generally create an unlivable miasma?" The Cardinal shook his head, waving his hands in a refusing manner.
  349.  
  350. "Nuh uh. No way. I was there at that island, I have seen what the thing does. You unleash that, and Agartha becomes a health hazard infected or not."
  351. (Tarquin Brubeck)
  352.  
  353. Alfred's eyes were raised the moment he noticed Istvan step up to do what appeared to be scolding his father. Yikes. He didn't have a clue as to what was being mentioned but it all sure sounded back. Like real bad, he merely watched though, hell it was pretty funny for a moment to see his exalted pops get chewed out.
  354.  
  355. " Heh, that's what he gets for thinking he's the smartest guy on the planet, dumb ole guy. " He states a bit more outwardly this time but he wasn't too loud. He didn't wish to catch his father's scorn. After all Alfred still wasn't sure just exactly the man was capable of and honestly at times, he didn't want to know.
  356. (Alfred Montbell )
  357.  
  358. "The plan is not a whim. It's been long discussed, we engineered a cure first, and we've also been long at work on many things regarding it."
  359.  
  360. His voice was calm, just barely loud enough for the room to hear, those at the back may have had trouble.
  361.  
  362. "Istvan, I would at least like to tell you-- I have asked him all the questions you did. I trust Adrian to keep this under control-- While I do not agree entirely, with biological warfare, it is as he said. A contingency. If the ceasefire remains steady and no war breaks out, none of this will matter.
  363.  
  364. He paused, taking a deep breath.
  365.  
  366. "At least, with these brands, our people are safe. Is that not a bright side?"
  367. (Eldwyn)
  368.  
  369. Malachai says, "I.. i think we.. should get rid of the virus.. or infection thing..."
  370.  
  371. Malachai says, "or destroy it..."
  372.  
  373. Malachai says, "seems the safest way..."
  374.  
  375. Malachai says, "This is mostly work of m-madness.."
  376.  
  377. Malachai says, "Not g-genius..."
  378.  
  379. Selene Montbell says, "Until you create something yourself, I don't think you have any input on what is determined madness or genius."
  380.  
  381. "Oh. My. Fucking. Goddess."
  382.  
  383. He slowly raises his one good hand up to his face, giving a totally, absolutely, mind-numbingly dumbfounded look at Adrian. As if he were simply blown away.
  384.  
  385. "If that's the case, I want you to theorize for fucking weeks, MONTHS, YEARS on what kind of effect a fucking contagion would have if it interacted with DIVINE FUCKING MAGIC. I'm sorry Adrian, are you trying to say that you know how to control the unpredictably impossible? The impossibly unpredictable? Are you an expert on shards now?"
  386.  
  387. He turns to those that left branded, the bile rising his throat.
  388.  
  389. "Holy shit. I'm actually going to fucking kill you, I think. I am actually getting to the point where I want to kill you. I didn't actually think it was possible! But I'm really fucking getting close to it!" He'd start to say, his voice rising. "Your dumb as fuck heretical proposals, your half-baked ideas, your arrogant, smug-ass fucking face--"
  390.  
  391. His hand slowly closes into a fist, glancing at Tarquin.
  392.  
  393. "These brands are a fucking failsafe when you don't even know what this fucking thing could possibly turn into. You are going to use this ENTIRE ISLAND as a test facility for a biological weapon that WE CANNOT POSSIBLY TRUST YOU WITH. I want to ask you again, Adrian, and you BETTER FUCKING TELL ME."
  394.  
  395. "WHAT! THE FUCK! IS GOING THROUGH YOUR FUCKING MIND RIGHT NOW!"
  396. (Istvan Boldizsar)
  397.  
  398. Roland looks between Adrian and Eldwyn with a face of disgust underneath his sunglasses, shaking his head and placing his hands out of his coat pockets, taking the opposite side of Tarquin, at Istvan's side.
  399.  
  400. "I've been with the Jianghese the past two months, the people there are NOT interested in causing a war with us again, Belmont. You shouldn't even have considered making this at all! We practically almost slaughtered them in the Ardent siege, who's to say we wouldn't just do so again? Their relationship with the Gehennan is strained as it is right now and I doubt they would take their side yet again after they bled for the Fourfold."
  401. (Roland Barrett)
  402.  
  403. Bronwyn Just scoots over to Soma away from the screaming adults.
  404. (Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck)
  405.  
  406. Goes to bronwyn.
  407. (Malachai)
  408.  
  409. Soma Boldizsar says, "<*dusts off the front of his coat, a thick bead of sweat falling down the side of his face. His eyes are fixed on Istvan, hands trembling."
  410.  
  411. Eldwyn caught one argument to his hear the loudest. Tarquin
  412.  
  413. His voice became much more stern, almost in a scolding matter.
  414.  
  415. "Is that so? You didn't seem to have any problem with bringing that foreign infection to our lands yourself, when you brought Aesperus back. What was your concern then? Hmmm? She herself could have caused that thing to spread. May I remind you, if it were not for us, she would not even be cured."
  416. (Eldwyn)
  417.  
  418. Soma Boldizsar whispers something.
  419.  
  420. He asks to istvan.. politely yet nervious. trying to speak at him.
  421. (Malachai)
  422.  
  423. Soma Boldizsar whispers something.
  424.  
  425. Vexx stares at the two silently as this is getting tense really fast
  426. (Vexx Vincent)
  427.  
  428. Malachai says, "Is it not better... if we put him in a cell?... that... kill him?..."
  429.  
  430. Malachai says, "Then... i mean"
  431.  
  432. Istvan Boldizsar asks, "SHUT. THE FUCK UP. DID I ASK YOU A QUESTION?"
  433.  
  434. Selene would scowl at Malachai, "If you suggest killing my brother again, you'll be the dead one."
  435. (Selene Montbell)
  436.  
  437. Malachai says, "S-sorry! s-s-sir!.."
  438.  
  439. Malachai says, "I di- did not suggest killing..."
  440.  
  441. Tarquin Brubeck says, "Her symptoms didn't manifest until we returned, you sneering idiot. When I want your opinion I'll ask Adrian."
  442.  
  443. Vexx blinks, devistated staring at how Istvan has been corrupted with anger.
  444. (Vexx Vincent)
  445.  
  446. Soma breathes in heavily, tucking his hands behind his back. He wants to leave, but he'll never admit it.
  447. (Soma Boldizsar)
  448.  
  449. Looks really anxious at the moment and nervious. seeming very much scolded.. or felt he deserved being yelled at..
  450. (Malachai)
  451.  
  452. Erik watches as the thing unfolds, seemingly this was not obviously discussed among the higher official before putting it through
  453. (Erik Drakanov)
  454.  
  455. Bronwyn frowns.
  456. (Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck)
  457.  
  458. Alfred was feeling rather tense as he watched everything play out. Not even rebellious comments could leave his mind. The words that left Istvan's mouth left him with a sense of fear. This was serious, probably far more serious than Alfred would be able to understand right now. He would begin to awkwardly listen and lean off the wall.
  459.  
  460. It was then with a slight pivot and a couple slow, large steps he made his way over to the other two kids. The only place in the room that didn't feel too awkward being in for his age. He glanced them over for a moment and would shrug with his hands still in his pockets.
  461.  
  462. " Hah...it got weird way too fast. "
  463. (Alfred Montbell )
  464.  
  465. "Yes, Istvan. I am."
  466.  
  467. "I have been the leading expert on spire shards for a very long time. And I doubt that is going to be changing any time soon."
  468.  
  469. The scholar begins to siphon more Sarradian blood from the vile, preparing another runic array. He waits for Istvan to roll up his sleeve.
  470.  
  471. "I've been theorizing for years, Istvan. Two years, alongside my research time."
  472.  
  473. "What's going through my mind, you ask?"
  474.  
  475. The scholar points to his own head.
  476.  
  477. "At times, I could not even tell you. But this, Istvan, is not one of those times. This has been the primary focus of our research efforts as soon as we found out Aesperus was infected."
  478.  
  479. He gestures towards himself, then towards Eldwyn.
  480.  
  481. "We are the reason Aesperus is cured. We, with minimal data, cured a foregin and alien disease."
  482.  
  483. "Whatam I thinking? I'm thinking, we need something that will for once in the over twenty years that I've been on this forsaken continent, will inspire enough fear in our enemies to the point where they will not dare threaten us again."
  484.  
  485. "We came here for the Spires. For research. I'm done waiting for these endless conflicts to subside."
  486.  
  487. He looks towards Tarquin.
  488.  
  489. "You saw the woman have bile shoved down her throat, and you mean to tell me you had no way of knowing she was infected after a malformed yokai with fungal growths all over it spit into her throat?"
  490.  
  491. He scoffs, shaking his head.
  492.  
  493. "In regards to the crops, you needn't worry. Careful observation over the years of study we did revealed the parasite can only infect magical entities."
  494. (Adrian Montbell)
  495.  
  496. Inhaling deeply, Soma gathered himself for a moment before turning and inclining his head toward the redhaired child. "Good day." he greeted, quietly, before looking back toward the developing situation...
  497. (Soma Boldizsar)
  498.  
  499. Soma throws Malachai a somewhat stern look over his shoulder.
  500. (Soma Boldizsar)
  501.  
  502. Vexx Vincent says, "<I'm pretty sure... Aesperus... Is a vampire... >"
  503.  
  504. Soma snorts dismissively, apparently tuning the man out.
  505. (Soma Boldizsar)
  506.  
  507. Thinks the man is kind of a jerk. but remains polite in his mannerisms
  508. (Malachai)
  509.  
  510. Bronwyn is getting enthralled with the current situation and doesn't pay the two any mind
  511. (Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck)
  512.  
  513. Erik notices Lanyu, waves at her but wonders why Dawei brought her to a political hotspot
  514. (Erik Drakanov)
  515.  
  516. Seems a bit distracted in his mind seeming a bit out of it. staring at nothing.
  517. (Malachai)
  518.  
  519. Soma blinks, surprised at the entrance of the two from Jianghu.
  520. (Soma Boldizsar)
  521.  
  522. Alfred would look over to Soma for a moment and then back to his father. Lord, huh? That's what they call you? . He frowns for a moment before replying. Unfortunately, yeah. He says I'm his son but I don't buy it. Not him. He glared at his father for a moment before the anger changed into something else.
  523.  
  524. He scoffs as he continues " He ain't no lord either, just a, glorified nerd. " Alfred states as he looked over to the green haired lad for a moment and then to Istvan, " I'm guessing your pops is the one with the huge plate on his back? He seems cool. "
  525. (Alfred Montbell )
  526.  
  527. Tarquin, becoming increasingly agitated himself, folded his arms across his chest with a quirk of his brow. His hip jutting out ever-so slightly, he eyeballed the pair appraisingly.
  528.  
  529. "Congratulations on curing a fungal infection, one that none of the other bile-covered participants contracted and one that Sima beat with his natural immune system. Aesperus was the worst afflicted, but we didn't consider it as long-term an issue as it became, no. Regardless of that, however..." His hands dropped to the pommels of his blades, resting there rather calmly.
  530.  
  531. "That doesn't excuse trying to turn it into something that would, if anything, galvanize Jianghu and Gehenna against us even more than they already are. If you researched this, you'd know it was compelling Aesperus to act in accordance with its desires. When Gehenna and Jianghu are all affected, it's not a three-way war but us versus the infected." He shook his head.
  532.  
  533. "This is a pattern with you, Adrian. You go wildly off into some ridiculously asinine direction, and then go half-way in the execution. It's building a magical bomb and setting it off in an anti-magic chamber all over again."
  534. (Tarquin Brubeck)
  535.  
  536. [21:28:54] Erik nods at Dawei
  537. (Erik Drakanov)
  538.  
  539. Erik waves at Lanyu again as goodbye
  540. (Erik Drakanov)
  541.  
  542. Bob would slip on over to Alice's side and poke her with his tail, showing her his twins.
  543. (Bob Hatake)
  544.  
  545. "Seventeen, you rot-infested bacon-breakfast-wrap."
  546.  
  547. And then, Istvan's hand goes to his sword. The keep grows instantly, painfully cold as his single eye glares at Adrian with an insatiable hatred. The blade is slowly drawn as he speaks, the ring of the Tyrium against the lip of the scabbard sounding like steel rods dragged against marble slabs.
  548.  
  549. "Fear? You know what sending out a fucking bio weapon is going to do, Adrian? It's going to paint a gigantic fucking target on our backs. You know. The one we've been trying to get off of us since we fucking landed. You know. The reason that we had assassins sent to kill you. You know. The reason WHY we've been trying to make fucking peace with Gehenna or Jianghu. You know."
  550.  
  551. The sword is freed from its scabbard, and raised slowly towards Adrian. Tarquin's words are echoed in his speech.
  552.  
  553. "We are Valmasia the Strong. We are Valmasia the Faithful. We are Valmasia, Disciples of the Morninglord. But we are NOT Valmasia the FUCKING SUICIDAL. Shut down this fucking project now. Completely abandon it. Destroy all your fucking research papers, never bring this up again. We are not weaponizing a fungal disease, we are not endangering the lives of the people on this island, and for fuck's sake, I am NOT letting you brand MY PEOPLE with some 'failsafe rune' after your bullshit fucking power-grab proposal."
  554.  
  555. "Don't make me turn this into a Red Wedding. I don't have any qualms with killing or arresting ANYONE who supports this completely fucking stupid idea. WE ARE ALREADY ORGANIZING A SPIRE EXPEDITION. Don't distract the entire fucking country with this moronic fucking dick-waving project."
  556. (Istvan Boldizsar)
  557.  
  558. Alice turns to see bobby and bebbles.. SO CUUUUUTE.
  559. (Alice)
  560.  
  561. Soma has a monotone, dead-eyed expression at the moment. Is that CUTE, Alice?
  562. (Soma Boldizsar)
  563.  
  564. Roland's body turns to stone, and he takes off his sunglasses, though he very clearly shakes from the cold that the Archbishop turned the interior into. Looking between Selene, Adrian and Eldwyn upon Istvan saying that he has no qualms killing or arresting them. "I would heed his words."
  565.  
  566. (Roland Barrett)
  567.  
  568. Vexx continues to stare intently at the two going at each other's neck, he remains silent yet devistated by Istvan's actions and words... He's never seen t his side of the horned man.
  569. (Vexx Vincent)
  570.  
  571. He glared at soma.. seeming a empty stare.
  572. (Malachai)
  573.  
  574. Alice can't help but smile at the babies.
  575. (Alice)
  576.  
  577. He slowly would stand behind alfred.
  578. (Malachai)
  579.  
  580. Istvan and Adrian were getting heated-- Eldwyn did not interrupt the two, but maintained his conversation directed towards Tarquin.
  581.  
  582. "A short moment ago, you were expressing how dangerous this infection is. Now you're calling it a mere 'fungal infection' that Sima's immune system can beat. Make up your mind."
  583.  
  584. He continued.
  585.  
  586. "I do not need your permission to speak, nor do I need Adrians. I am a director of Galeford Research and Development, and I am the one who personally observed, and researched, Aesperus' disease to a molecular fucking level might I add. I understand it well. Do not presume we 'do not understand' what we're dealing with.
  587.  
  588. His voice, now becoming less aggressive, he was beginning to calm.
  589.  
  590. "No. I don't agree with this idea entirely, as I stated. I'm not fond of war, at all. I certainly dont want this to be released, either. But do not wave your pitchforks ilke an angry mob at Adrian for doing what he thought was best to deter future attempts to destroy our settlement. He is a man of words. You can speak to him without all the venom. Your brain will do a better job of reasoning with him."
  591.  
  592. Eldwyn then muttered some final words under his breath.
  593.  
  594. "If you even have one."
  595. (Eldwyn)
  596.  
  597. He would stand behind alfred with some empty stare if he noticed it.
  598. (Malachai)
  599.  
  600. "Sima quite literally, mutilated his own face in order to stop the infection. No, Tarquin. It wasn't something his immune system beat naturally. It was something he had to hurt himself to get rid of."
  601.  
  602. The scholar says, glancing towards the Cardinal. He glances back towards Istvan, seemingly unresponsive towards him drawing his sword out of his scabbard. His gaze was unfaltering, unresponsive towards the Neries and his cold stare.
  603.  
  604. Indifferent, almost.
  605.  
  606. "Peace? Here? You call me the delusional one. The last time we had a cease fire, do you know what happened? War erupted, again. It is a never ending cycle. I am unconvinced, Istvan. We are delaying the inevitable."
  607.  
  608. "One way or another, temperaments will be jeopardized. Gehenna will act, Jianghu will act. It's only a matter of time."
  609.  
  610. He steps forwards.
  611.  
  612. "You had me killed, yes? Oh, this revelation is quite enlightening. Do you sleep well at night, knowing that because I died and Tranen was drove to take action against the Crows?"
  613.  
  614. "No, Istvan. I will not destroy the research. I will not destroy the samples, or the documents."
  615.  
  616. "Drive your blade through my nonexistent heart. Show the people what happens when little scholars armed with nothing but tomes to their waists speak their mind to armor-clad soldiers."
  617.  
  618. "Kill me mercilessly in front of my own family. In front of your own people. Let me set an example."
  619. (Adrian Montbell)
  620.  
  621. Tarquin 's face screws up in confusion.
  622. (Tarquin Brubeck)
  623.  
  624.  
  625. Istvan Boldizsar says, "No, you dumb fuck."
  626.  
  627. Tarquin Brubeck says, "No, no. The target on the back is why we, as a people, ended up having you killed."
  628.  
  629. Tarquin Brubeck says, "The phrasing was vague."
  630.  
  631. Erik raised a brow at Adrian, he was either delusionally over confident or really knows what he was doing
  632. (Erik Drakanov)
  633.  
  634. Istvan Boldizsar says, "I'm pissed off, and I'm sorry. I try to be clearer with my words."
  635.  
  636. Istvan Boldizsar says, "But no."
  637.  
  638. Istvan Boldizsar says, "We didn't have you killed."
  639.  
  640. Istvan Boldizsar says, "Anyway--"
  641.  
  642. Adrian Montbell says, "Well, you said 'we'. So yes, apologies for my misinterpretation."
  643.  
  644. Istvan Boldizsar says, "No, no, I totally understand where you'd-- Wait a fucking second."
  645.  
  646. Istvan Boldizsar says, "I'm dotting."
  647.  
  648. Tarquin Brubeck says, "No no, it's understandable! And Sima left after being infected, and when I next saw him he was fine."
  649.  
  650. Roland looks at the floating thought bubbles and dots above Istvan's and his own heads, before nodding and gesturing to them. "He's right, you know."
  651. (Roland Barrett)
  652.  
  653. Tarquin Brubeck says, "So pardon my underestimation of the thing. Still, all the more reason to be worried about this."
  654.  
  655. Amidst all what was going on the redheaded brat noticed something or rather someone was behind him that wasn't there before. He would slowly turn to look at whatever it was and to his surprise found himself looking up towards the individual. " Huh. " He states as he looks up at the man.
  656.  
  657. There was a lot going on and right now he's pretty sure he can even hear threats of his father dying again. He didn't like the guy but he just got him back, Alfred didn't want to lose him again. No matter how much of a dumb old fart he is. He would then begin to frown as he looked at the man
  658.  
  659. " Lookie here mister, this better be important cuz I may need to save my pops. " He states arrogantly, pointing at the man with his right hand, it trembling slightly. He then quickly, turned away from him and then looked back over to where his father stood. " What do ya want? " He grumbles, a glance as he looked over to Soma. What he said was right, which only made him really wonder just what goes on in that head of his?
  660.  
  661. " ...Why're you being more dumb than usual pops? " he asks himself nervously.
  662. (Alfred Montbell )
  663.  
  664. Juliette enters the building, and simply stands by the entrance, a hand on Folly's hilt, with a rather disgusted look on her face.
  665. (Juliette Harrengate)
  666.  
  667. He started to bite at alfred's shoulder seeming to simply lost it. as something seemed 'wrong' about his mental state.
  668. (Malachai)
  669.  
  670. Looking to the side, Soma inhales once, eyes flickering back to the conflict, a rather paler shade coming to his complexion. That really was Adrian's son right next to him. Given the way this situation was going, that was....unbelievably uncomfortable.
  671.  
  672. Behind his back, his nails dug into his skin - Before he turned around and saw what Malachai was doing. Blinking for a brief moment - Soma gave out a shout and thrust his hand forward.
  673.  
  674. "What in the Dreamer's name - Away, you lunatic!" Gritting his teeth, the young boy released a blast of gravity, aiming to repel Malachai away from Alfred.
  675. (Soma Boldizsar)
  676.  
  677. Ingrad says, "Hi."
  678.  
  679. Bronwyn startled panic breaks her gaze and she joins it when she sees Malachai gnawing on the montbell boy..
  680. (Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck)
  681.  
  682. Vexx looked over to Alfred unknowing until now using the context that's Adrian's boy, though he sounded brave his father was in no danger he feeled as Istvan denied taking his life.
  683.  
  684. But if it ever came to be... Vexx would willing attempt to save the life of Adrian without hesitation.
  685.  
  686.  
  687. (Vexx Vincent)
  688.  
  689. Bob would look around the room, watching Istvan and Adrian debating it out hard, Alice oogling over his twins, and the little pre-teens just being ki-
  690.  
  691. Bob noticed the pale stranger biting at Alfred's shoulder, with Soma attempting to repel him.
  692.  
  693. "WHAT THE FUCK!" He'd shout, his tail waving back and forth agitated.
  694. (Bob Hatake)
  695.  
  696. [21:55:21] "It's called keeping our fucking heads down, you delusional delinquent."
  697.  
  698. The sword swings wide, gesturing to the gathered pacifists and crafters.
  699.  
  700. "We have been doing fucking good work convincing people that Valmasia is a necessary force, a necessary presence. That our work here is towards something Good. Something RIGHTEOUS. We have opened their minds to the possibility that we are not sociopathic monsters. But starting up a fucking biological weapon?"
  701.  
  702. The blade arcs back to point to Adrian.
  703.  
  704. "I cannot condone this. I can NEVER condone this. And so long as I live, Adrian Montbell, I will never let that contagion be unleashed on this land. Were this Kalthas before you, I'm sure he would have fluttered happily at the thought. But I am not Kalthas. I am no Prince, I am no soldier, and I am no tyrant."
  705.  
  706. "I'm a fucking Chef."
  707.  
  708. At that, Istvan would cleave downward, almost, seemingly through Adrian... But really it plants itself into the stone before him, dragged across the floor until it can be used as a prop to keep himself standing. He hisses out a breath. Did... Did he misjudge the distance because of his eye...?
  709.  
  710. "... A Chef, and an Archbishop. Turn this research elsewhere. But do not use it as a weapon. If I hear about it being unleashed, there is absolutely nothing that will prevent me from using you as a decoration around the Keep."
  711.  
  712. "... Do I make myself clear, Adrian Montbell?"
  713.  
  714.  
  715. (Istvan Boldizsar)
  716.  
  717. The girl's eyes fall upon the marking on her wrist, and her expression soon shifts into pure disgust.
  718.  
  719. "What the fuck."
  720.  
  721. Istvan's speech does seem to make her eyes glimmer, though, and a firm nod is given as it ends, her hand's grisp tightening around Folly's hilt, even if not quite removing the blade from its scabbard.
  722.  
  723. "Azrael gave everything to protect life, and you make this thing? Are you even an Azraelite?" While her words could definitely be heard if someone was to actually care to listen, she was by no means shouting, nor taking the spotlight.
  724.  
  725. "No attempt at even converting them, just making them suffer...?"
  726.  
  727. The urge to spit upon the floor is contained, the floor was too pretty for that... But her angry disgust was evident.
  728.  
  729. "Hmph."
  730. (Juliette Harrengate)
  731.  
  732.  
  733. Magnolia would suddenly find herself walking into a rather large scene. Not knowing if she should leave, she would simply stand beside Juliette.
  734. (Magnolia )
  735.  
  736. As Alfred worried for his father, he was reaching a point where he was just about to run up and try mediate. He wasn't prepared for what life had in stored for him though as just as he was ready to make his first step, the random bozo behind him decided to dig in for a little snack and began to bite into his shoulder. Alfred would turn and shout at the man furious as he swiftly swings his foot up to kick the guy in the nuts.
  737.  
  738. " Hell y'think yere doing? " He states as he balls up a fist ready to throw one in the man's face this time but before he could even of raising his fist the pressure around him changed and the force being exerted outwards, the man was launched away with a blast of gravity. Alfred's hair was a complete mess from the shock of the blast. He blinked a few times before looking over to Soma
  739.  
  740. " I--I'm keeping you around. "
  741. (Alfred Montbell )
  742.  
  743. Bob Hatake says, "Alice...hold my babies..."
  744.  
  745. Alice says, "Yeah"
  746.  
  747. He rolls over on the ground. seeming idle for a moment. not currently realizing in his mad mind what happend.
  748. (Malachai)
  749.  
  750. Juliette Harrengate asks, "Can't you people fucking behave?"
  751.  
  752. Juliette glares holes into the whole group making a fuss.
  753.  
  754. (Juliette Harrengate)
  755.  
  756. Roland realizes this entire hold argument and situation is stupid, and he turns and leaves, exhaling and placing his sunglasses back on.
  757.  
  758. This is why he became a diplomat instead of staying a border guard.
  759. (Roland Barrett)
  760.  
  761. Trots over and looks at Alfred's shoulder. Eyeing the spot it seems the skin wasn't broke but she makes sure to dab it with disinfectant.. No idea where the man has been. She nods at Alfred to see if he is ok.
  762. (Bronwyn Lithia-Brubeck)
  763.  
  764. Focusing entirely on the exchange between Adrian and Istvan, his head snaps to the side at the sound of children shouting.
  765.  
  766. In a flash he was over there, Caesura and dagger drawn, his own aura making the already chilly surroundings positively subarctic. Staring down at the man with baleful blue eyes, interposing himself between the children and the... Biting. Individual.
  767.  
  768. Adrian was insane, but that was nothing new. They've survived Adrian Montbell before. This was more important.
  769. (Tarquin Brubeck)
  770.  
  771. Erik Drakanov asks, "Cardinal, do you require assistance?"
  772.  
  773. Suddenly he just foams from the mouth on the ground. seeming to either have a severe panick attack. or just mad.
  774. (Malachai)
  775.  
  776. Ingrad just stood in the background. He doesn't want to be involved in this mess, but he was also curious about all of the damn shouting going on in the fort. The Bulwark sneezed. A cold? No, soemthing was itchy around his nose. If only he could see better instead of just blackness with white outlines. Oh well, he just needed the magical power of Mythrils to fix everything.
  777.  
  778. A small fart came out the teen. "Oops." He took a step back. It didn't stink, it barely made that much of a sound. It's one of those basic farts. He's a mess.
  779. (Ingrad)
  780.  
  781. Eldwyn whispers: Good to see that Tarquin discovered he was better off keeping his mouth shut and dealing with something else.
  782.  
  783. Bob would pass off his twins to Alice for safekeeping...and intercepted the biting lunatic after he was thrown by a gravity blast. He draws his bastard sword with a clean metal sounding from his scabbard and joins alongside Tarquin.
  784. (Bob Hatake)
  785.  
  786. Eldwyn scoffs.
  787. (Eldwyn)
  788.  
  789. Erik joins the Cardinal, didn't really realise what was going on but he was open to orders
  790. (Erik Drakanov)
  791.  
  792. He hadn't paused to wait for Alfred's thanks.
  793.  
  794. A swirling vortex of violet energy manifests around his fist. Wide eyed, teeth bared, expression frozen in a panicked sort of rage, Soma started forward toward Malachai -
  795.  
  796. But Tarquin and Bob step in front. Abruptly, he remembers just where they are, and how many sensible adults are in this place. His arm goes limp, the magic in it dispelling, as Soma lets out a large breath. "Thank you, Uncle." he murmers.
  797. (Soma Boldizsar)
  798.  
  799. Rebecca decides to leave. She had seen and heard everything today.
  800.  
  801. (Rebecca Ravenseer)
  802.  
  803. Magnolia says, "alright then.. bye."
  804.  
  805. Juliette seems to be growing more stressed by the second.
  806. (Juliette Harrengate)
  807.  
  808. "As previously mentioned, I have absolutely no plans on releasing this without the combined authority of all Redeemers, yourself and the Cardinal. I suppose I must reiterate that point."
  809.  
  810. The scholar crosses his arms.
  811.  
  812. "I am, in fact, very much a sociopathic monster. Me being undead only seems to draw out my innate borderline tendencies."
  813.  
  814. "That said," he pauses.
  815.  
  816. "You have my word, Istvan. I will not release this unless granted supreme authority from every acting representative of our colony."
  817.  
  818. He gives him a pat on the shoulder, and smiles.
  819.  
  820. "Now, if you'll excuse me. My son is getting bullied, and I will not stand for it."
  821.  
  822. On his way over towards Alfred, he looked towards Juliette.
  823.  
  824. "No. I am most certainly not an Azraelite. Istvan isn't kidding when he refers to me as a heretic, Juliette. Religion is trivial to me in comparison to the study of the arcane."
  825.  
  826. He places a hand on Alfred's head.
  827.  
  828. "Hey, sport. Normally I'd say sorry to you for having to see that, but y'know? I'm proud of you. Standing up for me and all."
  829. (Adrian Montbell)
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