Oblitus Magia: Verse 1 - Fateful Encounter in the City of Fools

[MrSandman]

Matthias looked up as the sounds grew louder. Slowly standing up, he walked to the front of his cell and looked out. It was hard to make out distinct words among all the other sounds, but this sound stood out.

Reluctant as he was to use his more advanced talents in a place frequented by Witches, he made the conscious choice to take the risk. In an attempt to seek out the source of the sound, he opened his senses to the ebb and flow of the energies within this prison. Pushing aside those he deemed average, he sought out the Hot Spots, places where the energy radiated higher than normal.

As he had sat on his bench prior to this moment, he had attempted to solve the problem of being locked within. But now he set that aside to see what was occurring within the prison's walls.

Nothing much could be sensed from where Mathias was locked. The cell did a good job dulling anything he could sense....likely a by product of its purpose. Still, apart from the cells themsleves there wasn't any magic in the area anyways....save the muted emanations of some of the prisoners and the box holding the witch killer.

[MrSandman]

The rush through the streets after the announcement seemed to swell up here, of all places. Was this some kind of open-air venue...? Or was it a chokepoint at a fixed entrance?

Whatever the case, if it happened to draw a crowd, even here in slumtown under the watchful eye of the Administratum, that's where the action is.

"Fuh-fuh-fuh," Kinu sighed, the puffs of air lowered in pitch within the hollow of her mask. It was getting difficult to breathe. The smog and grime within the walls of this gilded Shangri-la was the first difference she'd noticed, but the way the filth clung to her in the rank, humid air, doubtless it had muted part of her majestic frame in dusty grey.

Whatever's going down is across that bridge.

In the misery of squalor, it was easy to spot a standout. Kinu saw a streak of red cut around the crowd, winding between bodies. Interesting. Perhaps that's my way backstage.

As the massed continued to gather, the Warrior of the Wasteland bunched her sopping coat over he shoulders, slowly pushing through the crowd a step behind as she pursued her quarry at ground level.

Closing in, Kinu catches the end of a quick conversation between the woman and some men.

"....nce its clear....make sure your on this side of the bridge when it goes off, I'll need you inside once the access is secure......EN watch over us."

"EN watch over us." The men parroted and vanished into the crowd. The redhaired woman cast a glance back, fire red eyes seemingly lingering on Kinu a moment longer then normal....and then she continued on, now flanked with several men.

[MrSandman]

"Sure," he said to the guard after taking a deep breath to resist the urges to correct the guard or make a shining beacon out of him. "That shouldn't be a problem at all."

Though none of his escort could see it, a faint smile began to form on Lucifer's face as he continued.

"Just, could you call someone to let Mr. Radiare know that he should probably go ahead and leave without me. If I'm not mistaken, he was one of the first ones off the ship and while I'm sure the debriefing won't take too long, I hear he has data on him critical to the special project LuxWeave was working on for the Administratum- so I don't want to hold him up any more than absolutely necessary. After all, that could be seen as messing with Magi business- and I wouldn't want to do that. Would you?"

"I'll be sure to pass that along sir." The man seemed unmoved at his insinuation...in fact for a moment there was a hint on honest amusement in his voice, As if the guard knew something he didn't

Nevertheless, he ended up in the cell and the guard continued on his way.

[Cthulhu_of_R'lyeh]

"Hey....Hey.....Witch Killer." The man sharing her cell responded to her racket with a gruff, world-weary voice. "....save your energy and my ears.....nothin gonna come from kicking up a stink now save a quicker execution."

The man twitches his nose again. ".....damn I'm itchy.....Ya never notice til you got nothing to scratch with.......So, They speaking truth....you kill a witch?" The man eyes her cage with a side glance.

Despite the man begging cessation, the chains continued to rattle. In a way it was almost childlike, the defiance. Petulant. Little more than minor annoyance, and yet...

Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank...

Yet with query levied directly, there was a blissful lull.

"I... I have no idea what you're talking about mister... I just want to go home..." the voice said, softly.

Only for the damnable rattle to resume.

Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank. Clank...

To accompany it now, however, came a quavering moan that rose in pitch until the girl was all but screaming. "Please... someone... anyone... I don't know why I'm here! I didn't do anything! I... just... I just want to go home!"

[Sub-Zero MKA]

It was hard to concentrate on not thinking when some idiot kept rattling that stupid chain against their cell door. And since all the cells were made of the same mystical energy as hers, that left only one person. Whoever was in that rolling cell was either an annoying piss ant, or had some kind of hare-brained scheme up their sleeve that required making as much noise as humanly possible. And considering she was begging for help from anyone who would listen -- which was all of them, unfortunately -- it was almost certainly the latter.

"..."

Xia's eyes cracked open to behold her cramped and confined cell. The mystical wall hemming her in was still there. As far as she could tell, there was no way out. Maybe. She rose to her feet easily and once again stepped toward the cell door. There wasn't a lock that she could ascertain, but what if...

...she punched it?

Her right hand rose and balled into a fist. Drawing it back a foot at most, she lightly tapped the cell door.

[Noldere]

The sudden whirlwind of emotions was taking its toll as Lucifer would be greeted by a visibly exhaust countenance, "... thank you." She said, her voice barely a whisper as she reached out and shakingly rose to her feet.

"Take as much time as you need," Lucifer said as he supported her efforts, the evident fatigue- mental and physical- emanating from Sigourney in nearly palpable waves. "It's just about the only amentity available to us around here, at any rate. Is there anywhere here that you'd like to go? As much as I'd imagine everyone here would like be elsewhere- any elsewhere- it doesn't seem like that's an option right now."

[Tami]

Nothing much could be sensed from where Mathias was locked. The cell did a good job dulling anything he could sense....likely a by product of its purpose. Still, apart from the cells themsleves there wasn't any magic in the area anyways....save the muted emanations of some of the prisoners and the box holding the witch killer.

Stepping back, with a mildly chagrin scowl, it was now obvious to him that this place was warded. Resuming his composure, Matthias once again used his talents on the cell its' self. He understood that these cells were designed to be impervious to talents, potentially inescapable. This did not deter him, it was a puzzle like any other. If there is a flaw in the design of the cell, he would find it, he would solve this puzzle as he always does. Though application of all his talents, observation, and putting the pieces together.

[Cleric of Hell’s Brigade]

The steam of civilians crossing the bridge continues unabated even in the time it takes Owen to make was way up. Ahead of him....he picks up the feint sense of magic, coming from a red haired woman near the end of the terminal end of the bridge. She is speaking with several men who are idling just off to the side of the column of survivors. She makes a motion with her hands and then proceeds further into the terminal area with several of the men following.

...there is also a cloaked woman following after her, though its difficult to get any details. Perhaps a witch....or something close.....

There were also several more "unassuming" civilians loitering on the bridge in small groups. Perhaps waiting for family or friends.....

Owen follows, keeping an eye on both women as he does so. Keen Eye and Identify are still up, and he tries to keep his pace nonchalant as he keeps observing the offloading and the two women.

[Melon God]

"AHHH... Gotta love poor people air!"

Morgen took in a deep breath, stretching her arms out to her sides and feeling the wind flow over her. It's not often she found herself visiting the lesser districts, but the sense of nostalgia upon gazing down at the neutered skyline was nothing short of palpable. Hard to say those memories were fond, business trips always were kind of boring. She finally released her breath with a long, satisfied sigh, like she'd taken a drag on a cigarette. With the transit station monitors continuing to relay the recent PSA above, her skirt bounced with her dainty little hops down the metal steps. A few people vaguely looked in her general direction with disgust before turning away.

Quite the traffic today, Morgen sourly noted to herself, squeezing between an obnoxious flirting couple amid the gathering crowds. I suppose these are the slums after all, not much to do here besides piss in the street and eat roast chicken. A public execution must be the right amount of excitement for the filthy, unwashed masses living in this pit. The bridge area was becoming packed, just standing in its vicinity seemed like a safety hazard - she was not in the mood to be trampled in the event that something goes wrong.

Gazing skyward, she squinted and held a hand over her brow to catch sight of the airships disembarking their passengers.

Now, her father had told her following the annihilation of A-9 that the incoming refugees could make for a good source of cheap labor, while her mother told her she hoped those poor souls could make peace with everything they've lost. This was a very precise summary of their character as Morgen witnessed growing up in the Dupont household, and it didn't take much to see which she took after more... depending on who you asked.

If there was a scale of 'do nothing' and 'jog ahead' in response to someone walking slowly in front of you, she would land squarely on 'clear your throat and tell them that their useless peasant hide is blocking your way.' In fact, she just now realized, that was actually a very good idea. Adjusting her collar, Morgen tilted her nose up ever so slightly.

"Gentlemen... kindly stand aside for me, would you?"

And, coerced by some intangible force, those nearest to her began parting to the sides like a human wave - at first subconsciously, and then momentarily stupefied why they had done such a thing, gawking absentmindedly at the woman who had just paved a clear path ahead with mere words. Tucking a lock of hair behind her ear, she smiled warmly to herself and walked in stride, humming a familiar tune.

That was more like it.

[grampagen]

Closing in, Kinu catches the end of a quick conversation between the woman and some men.

"....nce its clear....make sure your on this side of the bridge when it goes off, I'll need you inside once the access is secure......EN watch over us."

"EN watch over us." The men parroted and vanished into the crowd. The redhaired woman cast a glance back, fire red eyes seemingly lingering on Kinu a moment longer then normal....and then she continued on, now flanked with several men.

Hunched over in her soiled grey, the white mask smiled back, a face eerily stilled even as it shuffled forward. She loomed there for a moment before fading off to her right, deeper into the crowd.

Whatever Red was after, they wanted in over the bridge. And then there was what she said, EN watch over us.

...who the hell is Ian? Sounds like they've got backup.

But the way her eyes flashed, the sheer nerve. Still, Kinu knew that a new challenger - even one as marvelous as she - would be reckless to challenge a whole stable all at once, especially if they knew she was coming. But Kinu Ohrai was no Babyface, oh no.

That time has passed.

Furthermore, she knew that to take down a posse, first you pick off the stragglers.

Approaching one of Red's new entourage on the right wing, she closed in slowly on the outside from behind.

Closer. Closer now.

If there was an opening, perhaps she would soon be in the position to seize it...

[Sol_M]

Estrid had no memory of what happened. This was most unusual and they would have to get to the bottom of the matter immediately.

Sweeping her gaze across the room, she took in each of the occupants, one by one, her expression remaining neutral. These were the survivors of the Ruin, and since they were being debriefed, it meant they might have knowledge that she did not.

Visually, none of them appeared to have anything in common. A woman with a guitar, which looked expensive. Another rather young woman, clearly in distress. A man in formal attire, offering words of comfort to the woman in distress. Estrid's attention eventually settled on him as his words implied that he had influence, and the guard knew him by name. Furthermore, he seemed to be the most collected and willing to engage in a conversation among the group.


"Hello. Mr. Remdire, I presume?", Her tone was calm but serious, belying her age, as she approached the gentleman.

She extended a hand. "My name is Estrid. I don't wish to intrude, but my understanding of recent events is-", she paused for a second, "-unclear. It seems like you may have some knowledge about the situation. Would it be possible for you to fill me in on what happened before we entered the ship for the journey here?"

[bruceleegreyhulk]

Jacob just tries to ignore the noise intimate. (Does that person making that racking think anyone can help them? We're stuck in these inescapable cells,) Jacob thought.

( Maybe I could break out of this cell and help them, but I don't see any way I can do that. Dammit where's that hallucination of mine when I need it,) Jacob thought.

[The Chou Lives]

As he walked across the bridge, he could have sworn he saw a strangely dressed woman being mobbed. His reaction?

“
someone needs help.”

https://youtu.be/G9xzhyp431c

He rushes in, moving as quietly as he could in a attempt to flank an attacker.

Fllash back

“ Remember boy, to win a fight is to hit, like you plan to win. No flashy tricks, no cool finishers, hit hard fast and dirty. Also go for the joints.” During his time with his burnt out former soldier dad.

-

Now there he was, his first option and going with was a sure fire kick, right into the back of the left knee of a mystery man, in an attempt to bust out his knee joint. He maybe a squishy wizard compared to this group, but he practices working out and the fighting lessons of his past. Currently feels need to help “her” out. Does not seem like a damsel in distress though.

[MrSandman]

"How are things looking?" The Redhead whispered quietly, answered only by a voice in her ear as she slid along the river of souls and at last exited the bridge before the terminal entrance. "That many huh....Ok. We start on my signal.....what?.....no you'll know it when you see it. Just...Just get ready."

The woman took a deep breath, exhaled, gave her face a quick pat.....then locked on to one of the two guards standing just outside the terminal, and immediately broke into a fit of self induced sobs as she approached. "Please...Please you have to help. My husband is suppose to be here but I don't see him anywhere!"

The guard had to suppress a groan, as this had been the fouth time someone had come crawling back towards the building saying they were missing a loved one. "Halt." He ordered and lifted his weapon...for show of course. "No entry past this point. If your waiting on someone please wait for them at the other end of the bridge.....at the "waiting" area."

"No..No please....you don't understand...." Her face was now tear stained, and with a pathetic whimper she drew another few steps closer.

"Listen....You can either wait with the others, or you can wait in a containment cell.....either way your not getting back in these doors."

"Isn't the containment area that way though?" The guard across the way called out in between gaps in the quiet crowd.

"**** you Larry" The guard glanced over and responded kindly, then returned his gaze to find the woman staring him dead in the eyes.

He screamed......but it would be another 30 seconds before anyone heard him.

"Ha, Your such an idiot Bob." The other guard shook his head and chuckled as something brushed against his back.

Unfortunately for Larry, he wasn't even afforded a last scream.

---

Stepping into the Terminal against the human wave, the redhead stepped to the side and glanced around the terminal while counting down in her head.

10..

9..

8..

Two guards on the walkway, three on the ground.

7..

6..

5..

Mercer in position by the back one, Ghirman close to the other.

4..

3..

I'll take the two on the catwalk and the one watching the line.

2..

Now I just need...

1..

The Signal.

The glass ceiling shattered, drawing the attention of nearly everyone in the terminal as a screaming guard landed with a bone shattering crunch, following by a small rain of shattered glass. With every ones eyes on the prize, the woman swung into action. Stepping forward, her body cloak fell to the floor....and she brought a small weapon to bare on the closest guard. The crack of gunfire snapped security out of the befuddlement of the falling corpse. "We're under attac...EGuh!" Before he could finish a large mass tackled him from behind. Nearby another guard was shot in the back of the head by a concealed weapon.

"Multiple hostiles, Terminal Floor." One of the catwalk guards took aim down at thee now panicked survivors and prepared to open fire....only to fell something cold slice across his back. His superior turned to see the redhead finish her cut across the mans back and leap into the air....only to vanish before he could train his fun on her.

"Wh.." His cry was cut short by a pistol shot to the back of the head.

"Attention People of A-9, please remain calm. This Terminal is now under the temporary occupation by the People of EN.....if you value your lives, stay close to the floors, away from the windows and out of the line of fire." The woman shouted then, tapped her ear. "Mercer...inside is clear for now. Clear the bridge."

---

-- A few minutes earlier --

Furthermore, she knew that to take down a posse, first you pick off the stragglers.

Approaching one of Red's new entourage on the right wing, she closed in slowly on the outside from behind.

Closer. Closer now.

If there was an opening, perhaps she would soon be in the position to seize it...

Owen follows, keeping an eye on both women as he does so. Keen Eye and Identify are still up, and he tries to keep his pace nonchalant as he keeps observing the offloading and the two women.

Owen attempt at a innocuous pace manages to keep him within eyeshot of Kinu, but the redhead slowly breaks away into the crowd. From what he can tell...the woman in the mask seems keenly interested in the men that the redhead had been talking too....at this point she seemed to be approaching them, or rather...stalking seemed a more apt description.

At the same time the crowd seemed to be parting at the request of some rich spoiled brat who somehow had more pull then one would otherwise imagine among the mass of traumatized survivors. The mass that had kept close to the middle of the bridge spread out over to the sides...engulfing the group of men and the woman while impeding his progress.

Somewhere ahead however.....his sense caught a brief surge of magic, then another. From that distance it was impossible to glean much.

---

Kinu was within striking distance now, and she could see the man was listening to something while fiddling with a small device in his hands.....she could also make out the weapons on the others.

"Ange is in, she's taking care of the terminal.....alright boys......lets get this bridge clear, remember...give em a scare, but no killing."

He rushes in, moving as quietly as he could in a attempt to flank an attacker.

Fllash back

“ Remember boy, to win a fight is to hit, like you plan to win. No flashy tricks, no cool finishers, hit hard fast and dirty. Also go for the joints.” During his time with his burnt out former soldier dad.

-

Now there he was, his first option and going with was a sure fire kick, right into the back of the left knee of a mystery man, in an attempt to bust out his knee joint. He maybe a squishy wizard compared to this group, but he practices working out and the fighting lessons of his past. Currently feels need to help “her” out. Does not seem like a damsel in distress though.

...and then.....a shadow passes by kinu, lunges for the man and delivers a hard kick to the back of his knee.

Several things happen.

With a scream, the man crumbles backward....his friends pull their weapons in surprise......The detonator slips out of his hand and lands with a click against the floor.

One of the men looks down, sees the trigger mechanism flash.....and proceeds to exclaim the obvious.

"OH SHI..."

Far below, heavy explosives detonate on the bridge supports.....first everything vibrates, then it escalates to a rumble.

[The Chou Lives]

“ God damnit. I just screwed up.” He thought as he saw what had gone down, this bridge destruction is his fault, people... oh God the people!”

Then he saw the armed figures and took advantage of them freaking out, he swiftly snaps his gloves on and triggered a thermo rush. Pyrotechnic fury erupts from his gloves palms as he flame throwers into the apparent terrorists briefly while attempting a tactician retreat away from where the vibrations were.