PlaneShift
Fan Area => Roleplaying (Communitive Storywriting) => Collaborative Stories => Topic started by: Under the moon on May 15, 2005, 05:32:48 am
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[ooc] Before we start, this thread is for the Council to use. All non-Hopefuls are kindly asked to wait outside. Though you may listen all you want.
*Arnigus waits in the Council Room for the Hopefuls to assemble. Had stands outside the door to take weapons and ensure that no one besides the Hopefuls enters. A powerful damping Glyph hovers near the ceiling in the center of the room, to ensure that magic plays no part in the proceedings. A long table rests under the Glyph, nine chairs surrounding it. Four to a side, and one at the head, where Arnigus sits now as moderator. Sadly, one of those chairs will remain empty. Assorted fine wines, fruit nectars, breads, cheeses, and steaming meats line the long next to a small tapped barrel of ale. It is quite a feast, though Arnigus feels no pangs hunger, just the slight queasiness of unease. It could go two ways in here this night. One, everyone leaves in one piece, the two candidates chosen. The second he didn?t even wish to think on. He stands as the door opens, revealing the Hopefuls as they enter, than activates a second Glyph, one that allows all outside the room to hear what goes on.*
Greetings. I thank you all for coming. Please, take a seat and refresh yourselves. You all know your duty from the scroll you received. So I leave the rest to you. Know that all will know what goes on this night.
*he takes a slotted box from beneath the table*
You may place your votes in this box, when you are ready. (PM me)
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Rules:
1. Arnigus will moderate. Feel free to eat and drink.
2. Candidates must remain IC, and keep their votes IC.
3. Candidates may discuss the merits of the others, but must try to remain civil.
4. This will be a silent vote. At any time, you may PM me with the names of the two you wish to have run, excluding yourself. If there are any ties, the people with the most votes will be listed, and the vote will go again until two are chosen.
5. There will be no set closing date until all Hopefuls weigh in. But it may be best to keep proceedings as short as possible.
6. Excerpts may be placed in the PS Times.
7. Other than that, this is freeform. Have fun.
Hopefuls:
Druke Ordo
John Thazer
Tybalt (The Red Monk)
Am-Heh
Netrhys Tanhren (Seytra)
Meriner Seraphim (Pestilence)
Nilaya Kaeli
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*entering the councilroom Meriner looks around. Having been here once before long ago when his father came to speak with the Octarch it looks different then how he remembers the room. Smaller though still impresive. He takes a seat right of Arignus and poors himself an elfquist from a bottle standing on the table.*
\"Well 7 have stepped forward to answer the challenge. Now how to decide who of us is best to go forward?\"
*sipping from his wine he looks as the other hopefulls take their seats. Looking at them wondering who of them would be the biggest of competitio, but also wondering who would be best at being Octarch if it couldn\'t be him.*
Druke Ordo
Someone Meriner didn\'t feel much simpify with. It was Druke that Meriner felt stood for the inhabitants of the old section, but not for the whole city
John Thazer
Who planned to rule with an iron hand if he got that chance.
Tybalt (The Red Monk)
The mysterious diaboli
Am-Heh
The representative of the ones that follow the evil path. Being neutral Meriner didn\'t have that much trouble with him but having him as Octarch didn\'t seem him as a good idea.
Netrhys Tanhren (Seytra)
the female klyros that had felt so outraged by Amheh she had entered the elections herself
Nilaya Kaeli
Well respected and well liked in ages ago Meriner had not met Nilaya often but heard much about her. But was Nilaya the person to lead with people like Amheh even in the council she would have to work with?
And ofcourse himself Meriner Seraphim
feeling a leader should be above the groups that some represent and be a leader the whole plane should be proud of.
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Passing his weapons to Had, who stands at the door of the council chamber, trying to look threating...
Grinning back at the unfortunate looking kran on guard patrol, Amheh steps through the large doors into the well lit room.
Arnigus and Meriner sit, patiently waiting.. by the looks of it....
Pulling out the chair, closest to Arnigus, who looks full of purpose, sitting at the head of a wonderous buffet that is spread upon a magnificatly crafted table.
Nodding to the both of them, Amheh sits and proceeds to pull grapes from one of the platers, flicking them into the air and catching them in his mouth effortlessly.
Now Gentlemen, while we wait for the others to arrive. I have given quite some thought, to which two cadidates should be chosen to step forth. One of these two, will be voted in by the populace. A populace they are to represent , help to grow and change.
They must represent the majority, so that the town and the realm in which it is situated is not formed and made in the image, of only a few select critins but the majority..
We do not want an Octarch that is only intune with his/her section of the community...and out of touch and step with the common woman,man and children that makes the foundation of our great society.
So this brings me to this conclusion, both Cadidates that step forward, should be from the opposite end of the spectrum. This will ensure the Community has more of a choice, a real choice, between the style and methods of an Octarch that is too represents them.
Im not talking in such terms as mundane as Good or Bad.....But Drive, Visions for the future, Goals they want set in place..and the path they take to realise this.
To help our community grow and thrive..Many paths can be chosen to accomplish this task..
Lets chose two that differ..Let the masses speak for themselves..
In saying all of this, I obviously feel that my path offers a refreashing choice, and differs the \"most\" from any of the other contenders...lets remember
\"different\" is not necessarily \"bad\".. *smiles
Many i have crossed within the realm follow similar ideals as my own, but are freighten of the wrath they quickly encouter when voicing such opinons, from some of the longer standing citazins, that feel there path is the only.
Looking towards Meriner, a fellow like you would be a good rival at the polls. We both have purpose..and the drive to make our visions, soild. Consider this my friend... when casting your vote. I will be . Amheh winks.
Turning to Arnigus, In the remarkable occassion that the votes from the council dont tally up in my favour...I trust it you\'ll know what to do wont you my adorable balding friend... Amheh smiles ruefully.
Then as if losing complete intreast, starts attacking the fine fruits and assorted cheeses with renewed vigour.
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Had and Nilaya stand outside the door, the kran looking her over suspiciously?for Nilaya offered him no blades. Nodding understandingly, she slowly opened her outer white robe (under which she is fully clothed in blue.) Had finds no weapons on her, and motions her toward the door.
Drawing the sash on her robe again, she turns her gaze toward the damping glyph. Such things always make her feel a bit queasy, not out of fear, but for having her life flow surpressed. Quietly, she slips inside, trying to ignore the tingling sensation and building numbness.
There she found Am-heh, Arnigus, and Meriner sitting round a long table, already conversing. She paused by the door, listening to Am-heh\'s words. Once he was finished, she spoke: \"I couldn\'t agree more, Am-heh.\"
Smiling, she pads over to a place across from Arnigus, and after a customary bow, she joins them at the table.
\"If everyone is to truly have a vote?yes! They must have choices.\" She pauses but a moment, seeking the words. \"Of course, the two needn\'t be completely opposed...but distinct enough to provide real options for the people.\"
\"In the same vein, if we choose one who appeals to a small portion of our citizens, we wouldn\'t be offering them a choice at all...they wouldn\'t be voting for someone so much as voting against the other...\"
She looks up at them cordially, eyes gleaming. \"But, ah, there\'s so much to discuss, and so few of us here yet...let us simply enjoy each other\'s company \'til the others arrive.\"
On that note, she helps herself to some bread and some of the cheeses, and takes a sip from her glass of water (one sits at each place.)
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*pulls back his hood and smiles as Had puts his hand over his chest, to stop him from entering the room. Tybalt shows his empty hands and steps into the councilroom. As he has just passed through the doorway, Tybalt stands still for a short while and concentrates in an attempt to stop thinking about the different odours he is faced with, and instead try to discern which persons are already in the room.
Greetings!
*walks over to Nilaya to take a seat next to her, discreetly bowing to the lady before sitting down. Not being able to resist the fine smells he is sensing, Tybalt carefully takes some fruit nectar and cheese, and starts to eat while listening to the others talk. Knowing that most that things being said now will have to be repeated when the others arrive, Tybalt decides to just observe the others for a while and save his words for later
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Taking his mind from the food for a few moments as Nilaya enters the room, too be followed a few minutes by Tybalt. Amheh raises his eyes too the familiar faces. With his gruff voice, he greets them.
Hello both of you, glad you could take some time out of your busy schedules to attend..Haven\'t seen the others by any chance?
Nodding at Nilayas comments, Amheh briefly outlines his conversation that Nilaya took the liberty of evedroping on to tybalt. Slyly changing the end in a quiter tone so that tybalt alone hears.
Fellow like you would be a good rival at the polls. We both have purpose..and the drive to make our visions, soild. Consider this my friend... when casting your vote. I shall be . Amheh winks.
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*Druke enters the room, silent, looking around at the whole council*
\"sorry I am late to arrive\"
*Druke takes a slip of paper from his pocket, and fixes it into the slot*
\"The ones who are born to rule this land are clear, and was made clear in the previous trial.\"
*Druke says this and then has a seat, proping his arms on his blue crystal staff*
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*While wondering where the other council members have gone he frowns at Amhehs words. He gets up again to take a plate and get some of the spicy chicken he has seen. *
\"We should ofcourse give the people a choice. Chosing two that have about the same agenda if they become Octarch will definately give the people the feel they had no vote and might not be motivated to show interest in the elections, but we should also consider what choices the people want to make.
I think togheter we have a feel of what the majority of the people want and giving people a choice where one of the two is chanceless becuase the people don\'t care about that difference or are obviously opposed to one side isn\'t really giving a choice either.
We must wonder who of us would make the best chance in an election. Who would people vote for? And why would they vote for him or her?\"
*sitting back down with his chicken he starts eating anxious for the others to come and have the discussion start in all honosty*
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*signs, loundly. Enough for all in the room to hear and points toward druke...Obviously trying hard to restrain himsef, Amheh takes his mind of the dagger consealed in his left boot, and concentrates hard on the ugly features of drukes face.
Surly one that casts his vote so quickly, without first taking part in disscussions with his other councilers, must be a fool.
You have only been in this room for less than 2minutes and already you show signs of a man that will rule in a way, that the local populace is not asked what it would like or prefere.
Octarch is a postion, for someone who can be a voice for a nation and his fellow bretherin.....not himself..
I implore you druke, to jam those fat fingers of yours, back into that slot, reclaim your votes and WAIT until all of us as present, Before making any rash descisions.
*edit reply Meriner
Looking towards his feline friend Amheh, passes Meriner an enormous platter. Over flowing with spicy deepfried chicken... (Really Tefusang meat but a flavour so close to chicken no-one would notice much of a diiference..except in the size of the beast of course.)
Grabbing a honey baked ham with one hand and releasing his waterbelt from its position on his belt, with the other. Amheh settles into his chair and shares a few laughs with Meriner while the small group waits for more arrivals.
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Please do withhold your insults.
From the prior trial all that needs to be said has been said.
This meeting is all about formalities, which if you know anything about me, I hate formalities. My mind is made, and I do not second guess myself, or allow myself to be swayed by your low use of words and propaganda.
I for one choose not a politician, but a leader, and my choice in votes reflect that decree.
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Looking back at Druke,
My poor man, If being called a fool is such an insult to you.. I fear Octarch may not be the postion for you..No matter what decisions are taken there will always be a small section, or in your case a large section of the community that does not agree with you or your ideals, thus making you a fool in there eyes...
One must not only be wise but have a tough skin in this postion....
Throwing Druke a bunch of sour grapes \"no hard feelings, i hope\"
Amheh smiles
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*suprised at Drukes fast decicion Meriner ways the pro\'s and cons af waiting, but decides to give others the chance to speak. Not sure who he wll vote for he plans to listen with an open mind.*
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\"Normally i would not repsond to such obvious transgressions. However this thread is here to defend and promote each councilor.\"
\"My one sentence in the prior statement was not an act of a broken heart because you called me a fool, it was a beacon to the maturity that I\'d expect one who could posible be in charge of my government. However you chose to ingore the later %80 of my message and target my reaction to trigger an altercation.\"
\"Quit tring to \"push my buttons\" if you will, like I said earlier, your methods of politcal messages do not get to me and i see what your trying to do. Reacting to your taunts will only make me look worse. You have relitively no chance of winning this thing, but i guess you gotta take someone down with you, is your plan.\"
\"to further prove my point\"
\"you said \"
*druke uses the crystal in his staff to playback certain piece of sound, exactly as it was said in the first place*
\"I implore you druke, to jam those fat fingers of yours , back into that slot, reclaim your votes and WAIT until all of us as present, Before making any rash descisions.
*Druke tabs the staff on the ground, ending the effect*
\"I simply requested\"
*druke pats the top of the crystal*
\"Please do withhold your insults.\"
*again tapping the staff against the floor*
\"you then retorted\"
*the idle tapping of the crystal starts to get familiar*
\"My poor man, If being called a fool is such an insult to you.. I fear Octarch may not be the postion for you..No matter what decisions are taken there will always be a small section, or in your case large section of the community that doesnt not agree with you or your ideals, thus making you a fool in there eyes...\"
*One last tap is made against the ground*
\"The last is a truely valid statement which i am well versed in from my experiance in Arcane Order, but perhaps you should focus less on \"winning\" the argument, and more on finding the best answer.\"
\"Though I am well aware everyone here heard what you said, I just wish to point out your obvious desire to draw out animosity, and demand that you either cease or leave the premises, this is a place for leaders not political quarrelers.\"
*Druke remains sitting ,hands proped against his staff*
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My dear Druke, I fear my intentions have been mis-interpreted...Come now my good man and take a seat among the rest of us..drink a little nectar, eat a little food....Relax you wont have to worry about this election to much longer..
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\"Oh yes, food, thank you Am-heh, i almost forgot\"
*starts plucking a\"sour grape\" from the vine, and slowly chewing a grape*
*chews for a minute*
*makes a puckering face*
*goes up to the table and grabs what appears to be some kind of avian leg*
\"quite delicious\"
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*Arnigus, glad to see that things are going well so far though Druke\'s quick decision startled him a bit, forgets himself enough to take one of the fresh harlberry pastries and pop it into his mouth. Looking up, he sees Had in the doorway make a few small signs known only to himself and Had with his right hand.*
One or more of the Council still carries a weapon.
*Arnigus nods, but makes the same type of signs back, seeming to drum his fingers on the table.*
I thought as much. Leave them be. But be ready.
*Arnigus leans back to enjoy the pastry, content that Had can handle any outbreak. Though he doubted there would be one until the votes were tallied.*
Try the harlberry pastries my good fellows and lady. They are quite tasty. Fresh from Kada\'s. Hmmmm.... those grapes don\'t seem to be ripe. You look like you have eaten a lemon.
*from somewhere outside -in the distance- the loud voice of a Kran is heard*
LEMON!
[ooc] that last part was for anyone who has read some of the old stories at Kada\'s ;) .
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Throwing the now shabby bone, that once was a beautiful, fat, honey glazed, ham over his shoulder, and looking towards Arnigus who is devourering the Harlberry pastries, with as much ease as Amhehs millions.
They sure look tasty, but i will not soil my mouth with any goods from kada\'s inn untill she recognises Deus ex Trucido and adds it to the community census.
His mouth watering at the site of the pastry delights.. thinking to himself..
........I hope she does it soon
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*Arnigus glances at the doorway, then at the three empty chairs, two of which should be occupied by now. He then glances at Am-Heh, wondering if something foul is afoot.*
Has anyone had word from John or Netrhys? It worries me that they are so late. Perhaps I should send out a messenger to find them.
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*Wearing a pleasant, but completely empty smile on her otherwise blank face, she walks past the yliaki who are waiting outside the room, her thoughts racing.*
{I cannot vote for Amheh, no matter what... I must not! What have I gotten myself into? Stop it! I cannot vote for myself... Would I even want that? It would be voiding the vote... Should I? No, it\'d be giving more weight to Amheh... but also the others...} *silently cursing, she tries to remember what exactly everyone had said in their speeches, right in time to hear Arnigus mention Johns and her names, making her feel even more uncomfourtable. Shortly afterwards, she is stopped by the Kran guard, who asks for her weapons.*
{I should\'ve expected that. What if...? I could try.... No, he seems to know what he\'s doing... the risk of being caught with a weapon is higher than the good it might do me..., probably...}
*not changing her expression, which seems to have solidified on her face, she is about to pull a notchy stiletto and an even more notchy knife from her ragged bag, only now noticing that a piece of parchment has been planted in her hand. Using the rummaging to slip it into the bag, she hands both weapons to Had and, after briefly surveying the surroundings and then the room, seeing and feeling the damping glyph almost simultaneously, enters.*
{This must be some sort of magical protection... it surely blocks me... not much of a loss compared to what the others can do, anyway} *still vividly remembers John\'s performance on the plaza the other day, and goes through the others who she knows or expects to be skilled mages* {They must hate it...} *Her eyes being drawn towards the food and drinks* {Wow... this is a feast! This place is a palace!}
Uh... took longer... sorry...
*Falls silent, trying to recover from the overwhelming splendour of the place. Seeing almost everyone eat, she warily grabs a plate and, avoiding anyone\'s gaze, begins to hastily pile onto it whatever happens to cross her sight, quickly having filled it almost to the brim, barely noticing. Grabbing a bottle of wine, her attention almost exclusively with the other yliaki in the room, she quickly decides on a seat at the far end of the table, giving her both distance to Amheh and a good overview
Setting down her plate she takes the seat and starts to eat, too, drinking the wine straight from the bottle. However, she is too distracted to actually notice or appreciate the fine, mostly unknown to her, tastes of everything.*
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So Glad you could make it, my beautful little kylos.
For a moment we had given up hope, thought you had walked out on your responsabilities.... and us...Not that we\'d blame you of course.
That just leaves John Thandar, i would be very surprised if he showed his face round these parts..I heard rumours that after he was beaten so completely by myself in the villiage plaza last week. He has gone into permenant hiding..
Shaking his head ,
Too bad he was a happy little chappy.....Reminded me of my first daughter, Very feminine, and with holyer then now ideals..
Well everyone, I welcome you to the first council Meeting of the 7 Candidates..
Looking back at Arnigus , who is obviously annoyed that Amheh is trying to take control of the meeting...Snorts and continues to talk...
Im glad you could take time from your busy schedual to discuss a little further each hopefuls plans, goals and how they intend on realising their dreams...
Looking at the other contestents Amheh looks over the blank faces and sighs..
You do have some dont you??
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*Meriner grins*
Exually we are just surprised with you Amheh. We didn\'t know you cared ;)
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Looking slightly embarrassed..
No, I dont really..... I was just thinking that while you had a captive audience, you might have something you wanted added to the record.
I shall be offering numerous amusements and activities once elected, The citizins that have no proir engagements are all welcomed to stand forth and enjoy the entertainment..
I will be calling meetings with the local merchant guilds, so they may discuss market lots with one another, types of goods they wish to sell (so theres not too much doubling up) and to anwser many of their questions, which they will surely have for the new Octarch.
With the influx of people that will be on the strets during these festivals they are certain to boost our economy..wealthy merchants, spend money on jobs they would usually do themseves.. creating more jobs, greater wealth amongst all and a stabler economy..
This is but one small section of the community i have plans for.. I have many more for the other groups within our realm..
Stopping still, Amheh sense the presence of another being...Its not Arnigus, one of his goons or another counciler...
I shant continue about polocie untill the room has been cleared..Get to it Arnigus!
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Well don\'t see anynone else speaking up so will take my turn to speak then.
I have already said what I feel is the best way to be an Octarch. I think an octarch should someone above petty disputes, but mostly someone who makes sure the life in Hydlaa is a good time indeed. That people who move to other cities will look back at Hydlaa as a great time and with regrets about leaving.
I also believe an Octarch should not impose his own view of what is good and evil on others. A good octarch of good alignment should be able to look further and not start a witchhunt for the evil ones. An Octarch with an evil allignment shold not turn the city in a warzone to fill his own pleasures.
As an Octarch you should represent all and should make sure all can do what they want aslong as they don\'t hurt anyone else while doing so.
How to achieve this myself. I would try to make people feel Hydlaan first. If someone asks someone what are you that they don\'t say \"Lawfully Good\" or \"an Ancient\", but I\'m from Hydlaa and proud of it.
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*Had watches the proceedings, inside and out, his eyes never resting in one place. But more than his eyes, he relies on and trusts his hearing more than his other senses. He hears Am-Heh\'s statement and quickly scans the large room, moving just his eyes as Meriner begins speaking. He see no one, though sight is the easiest sense to fool. But he also hears nothing... and that worries him. Slowly, so as it looks as if he moves out of pure boredom, Had leans his iron clad staff on the side of his forehead, planting the butt firmly on the stone floor. At first, he still hears nothing, but then, the slight scrape of a boot shift. So slight, in fact, that the sound would not have passed into the air, but stone is the perfect conductor for noise. Had lazily moves the base of his staff over a step and listens for the scrape again. There! Quickly, he gauges from where the sounds came to the two points. Still looking bored, he leans back, shifting his grip on the staff. Without warning, he heaves the staff in a spinning ark towards a far -apparently empty- corner. The staff stops short of the corner with a crack, then clatters to the ground. A figure in an odd shifting cloak and mask appears standing over the staff, then falls limply over it. Had walks slowly over to it, still listening for other movements, but there is none. The figure on the ground breaths slowly, not dead, emitting a small feminine groan. Had looks slowly around the room, as the council sits in shock.*
\"Know this,\" Had speaks to the open air, \"Whether this person is a guardian, or an assassin she is not welcome in here, nor is anyone else. She will live, but the next to enter here uninvited may not have so much luck. You are warned. Any others who think to hide in this room using a Cloak of Shadows may leave now without repercussions. When I get back, that offer is gone.\"
*Had grabs his staff and the woman without even checking to see who it may be, nor does he care. Without further word, he drags the woman across the floor and tosses her out the door to roll down a few steps. He watches as she gets up an stumbles into the crowd. That should be enough of a warning. If not...he grips his staff, not relishing the thought of carrying through with his promise*
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*To Had\'s suprise John Thazer appeared.*
\"Where did he come from? The street was just empty few moments ago!\" *Had thought* \"But no matter, he is here after all.\" *Saying out loud* \"Your weapons, please, sir.\"
*John looks at Had. His face is full of wearyness and distress. He passes his longsword to Had.*
\"Keep this safe, my friend.\"
\"Sure, friend.\" *Answered Had*
*John entered the Council Room.*
\"Sorry that I am late, but I had an important business to attend to outside the city. I have just returned, I hope I have not delayed all of you in anyway.\"
*John sits on one of the free seats. He looks at the table...they surely kept themselves busy! Is this a council room or a feast room!? John takes a what seems to be a big red apple and bites in.*
\"I think all are here, aren\'t they Arnigus? We can now begin.\" *Said John after eating the whole apple.*
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As Netrhys enters the room, Nilaya casts her a slight smile and nod, as if welcoming her.
After Meriner speaks, Nilaya turns to him and speaks in a soft, but clearly heard tone: \"Meriner, do remember that the Octarch rules over the entire level...not just Hydlaa city.\"
She folds her hands. \"Most of our citizens have never even been to Hydlaa...it\'s a several month journey! Not everyone can just up and leave their land for that long...most are common working people, not adventurers...and we\'d best remember that.\"
She sighs. \"You raise another good point...it is a fine line to walk...the Octarchs must work with the Vigesimi to maintain law and order across the land...to bring justice. Yet, they must do so without starting a so called witch-hunt, or letting the situation devolve to warmongering chaos...\"
Nilaya looks up at those around her earnestly, her blue eyes searching her companions. \"Know why I am here...not for myself, but to serve the people of Yliakum... If they so desire, I will do my very best as their Octarch. Yet should they prefer another, then so be it...\" Folding her hands, she pauses uncertainly, lest her words be interpreted as indifference... \"We are not entirely in competition, either...were I to be elected, I would definitely seek the counsel of people in this room...and I know others feel the same.\"
Turning to the late arrival, she smiles, glad they are all gathered at last. \"Welcome, John.\"
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Grinning and quiet impressed with Had\' style.
Amheh watches on, as the large kran throws the fledgling spy/assasin out the door.
Nice work Had... Your not quite the dumb oaf you look like....
Though there is such sadness in those dark beadie eyes of yours. You must have seen or done some terrible things!
Turning towards Arnigus, to show a sign of appreciation and a new found respect for the ailing banker..
You surround yourself with good help, a hard thing to find these days...
Looking back at the door and almost startled at Thandars arrival.
Amheh wonders how the little grunt found his way out of death realm...
Ah good to see you could make it Thandar, We were worried you were not going to be able to join us today. Dont worry i would not let the rest of them start without you.
Watching Thandar bite into his apple, then listening to Nilaya greet Netrhys and voice her thoughts of the moment. Amheh waits for a pause in the conversation to continues.
So now that all of us are here, should we talk about which of us are to step forward...or in the same token, is there anyone who has got this far..and is now having reservations?
Raising an eyebrow and slowly scanning the faces of the seven hopefull seated around the table..Looking for any sign of uncertainty. Settling his gaze on Thandar..
It would be a shame for someone who was not entirely sure of ones self to step forth and disadvantage another more appropriate...wouldn\'t it.
Looking at the food, and about to reach for another helping of fine goats cheese marinated in olive oil, thyme and rosemary.
Amheh first pops the button on his trousers and losens his belt a little. Breaking of a piece of flat bread and digging into the cheese....
We\'re amongst friends after all.
A light under-tone of sarcasim in his voice. Talking between mouthfuls
With all seriousness if I was to ignore the fact i was running for this position i would probably put forth two cadidates that emcompass the community as a whole, looking towards Meriner and Tybalt but of course thats strictly of the record, as our prefrences are\"secret\".
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*has a slight grin as Amheh speaks not sure what to think of his words.*
Well I am glad we are all here now so we can start this meeting and to cast our votes so the elections can begin. I have already spoken. Who would like to step up and add something to their startingspeech?
*looks at Tybalt and Nethrys*
I think there are stilll a few we haven\'t heard from what they exually plan wnough to seriously concider voting on them unless we already know them through other mean then this election.
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*listens to Am-Heh who seems to be trying to gain his vote, but ignores the man and instead turns all his attention to the Nethrys who has just entered the chamber. Happy to see that she has arrived, Tybalt smiles and discretely pulls out the chair next to him, using his left leg. He is just about to greet her when he hears the sound of footsteps come from above him. Without saying anything to the others, Tybalt leans towards Nethryr, who is now sitting next to him, and speaks to her with a low tone of voice.
Be on your guard, mylady. Something tells me this meeting will not end well...
*stands up and bows to the ladies
Pardon my impoliteness, but I need to speak with Am-Heh.
*starts walking around the table to take a seet next to Am-Heh. Knowing that by moving around the room he would catch Had\'s attention, Tybalt turns to the guard and points towards the roof in a way that none other than Had can see it. Tybalt then proceeds to take a sit next to Am-Heh, who immediatly leans over and whispers something in his ear. Tybalt places his mouth to Am-Heh\'s ear and speaks:
I will not join you in your plans. We are both unarmed in here, but the difference between you and me is that I am used to it. I do not know if you are behind the footsteps I heard on the roof, but if anything happens to anybody in here...your blood will make up for the damage caused.
*turns to Nethrys and then points to his plate that he forgot on the other side of the table, as if asking for it. Hears Meriner ask for somebody to present a speech and smiles at Nethry\'s while grabbing his plate.
Ladies first...
Edit: fixed it. sorry about that ;)
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*pokes Tybalt*
Meriner please ;)
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*Has been warily observing the happenings and listened to Amhehs compliments, noticing Nilayas welcome and Tybalts whispers, at all times maintaining her blank face and empty smile. As she is forced to speak up, she rises*
{It\'s time! I must not forget anything... I should just say they should vote for someone else... noone would take me serious anymore... I wish this was over... Come on!} *She speaks with a calm, pleasant voice that is as blank as her face. Everyone who knows her can tell that this is far from her usual self.*
I have thought about this, and everyone in here has stated good points. Whoever gets elected should do something about them.
Giving everyone some basic education is good. This also includes basic fighting skills, and even some basic knowledge of magic. That way, the guards will still be able to handle troublemakers, but nobody would be completely defenseless. Safety in Hydlaa is alright, but outside it\'s not, so at least the main trade routes and other cities should be protected just as well. However, there should not be a separate magical guard; rather the normal guards will need some magical experience, and just as good fighters and archers, there sould be mages within the guard, all used only to deal with tough situations, not normal guard duty.
*pauses for another deep breath*
Regular meetings to get to know what the most pressing problems are are also a good idea. These should be done in every city or area, and the results sent to the Octarch. Different place, maybe different problems.
Things must be controlled, but too many laws just make things difficult. So all laws should be checked if they actually help. Also, the Octarch must be impartial, dependence is a weakness.
*pauses and breathes deeply several times before continuing*
I also stand with my goal to remove slavery, any sort of slavery. Even with payment one can be a slave, prostitution is the most common example of this.
*sits down again, putting her hands under the table*
-
*John turns to Netrhys, who he is sitting next to.*
\"Please, my lady, would you please tell me if I missed anything from this conversation, that has been going before my arrival.\"
*Netrhys seem only glad to tell John about all that has been going on and all that have been said, well at least in some detail.*
\"Thank you again, my lady.\"
*John sat there for a moment refleting on all that have been said.*
\"Now Ladies and Gentlemen, this seems to be the last time that any misunderstandings about me can be cleared.\" *Glances towards Meriner* \"I have no intentions to rule with an iron hand, like you suggested I would. I am set to make Hydlaa and its surroundings safe, by introducing the measured I have already mentioned in the plazza. If the people will not like my policies and wish me to stand down, so it shall be. I do not wish to govern people who do not wished to be governed by me. Of course I would not give in into some deranged mob that been rosed by the likes of...\" *Breaks the sentence.* \"By people who simply does like me because they don\'t. Don\'t like me hold the election again!\"
*The wearyness on John face has growned.*
\"I...I can only hope that you choose the ones that are worthy of this title. I make a vow now, whoever gets chosen to be an Octarch, I shall not oppose to in any way.\"
*John stops for a moment, takes a blank piece of sheet, takes out his pen, and scribles two names on it.*
\"I have made my decision long time ago, it still holds now. I cast my vote.\" *Hands over the sheet of paper to Arnigus. John takes his place near Netrhys and takes another juicy red apple.*
-
With a flourish of a quill, Nilaya signs the names of two candidates on her slip of paper. Smiling, she looks up. \"I too, have made my decision...\" With that, she stands, pads over to the box, and deposits it. On her way back to her chair, she gives a barely noticable pat on the back to Tybalt.
\"Thank you.\"
-
\"Well no need to wait then. I think all have had the time to speak their mind if they wanted to.\" Meriner says as he takes out a piece of parchement and writed two names on them
May the best person win.
*Hands the parchement to Arginus.*
-
Pulling one of the identical sheets of paper from the center of the table.
Amheh take a cheese knife & pricks his finger...
A warm,dark red blood pools on the end of his finger and he proceeds to use it as ink..
Looking at the other faces in the crowd...
A game of hangman anyone? or naughts and crosses?...
Looking at the vacant unshifting stares, he flicks the droplet of blood from his finger, crumples up the piece of paper, throwing it over his shoulder. Fine then lets get down to business.
Grabbing a new sheet of paper, and waiting for Nilaya to finish with the ink and quill, Amheh marks two names on his sheet of paper,. Folding it like the others , placing it in the box..then giving the total a shake and placing the box back on the table from where it came.
I think one of these two would be a good subtitute as Octarch, if i was unable to hold the postion..Only substitutes mind you...
-
*Arnigus sees Had nod slightly to Tybalt as the Monk whispers privately to several of the other members. Had makes a few hand signs.*
The Monk knows of the person on the roof.
*Arnigus\'s eys widen slightly. There was someone on the roof? His fingers drum on the table, giving back a message to Had.*
Why did you not tell me earlier?
*Had\'s fingers flick out quick word against his staff.*
It seemed of little import. The wards around these walls allow nothing to pass through. If the person does any more than sit up there, I will stop them. Besides, there is another watching the watcher.
*Arnigus frowns. He did not like all these unknown people lurking about, and several of the Council look a little agitated. But who was this other watcher who watched the person on the roof? He taps out the question to Had, while addressing the Council out loud.*
Well said everyone. I am ever so glad the way this meeting has been going...
Is he one of ours? Roth or Toth?
...You all give me pride in your actions and words. The Level is surely in good hands...
*Had* No. I do not know who is on the roof. But the other... *Had\'s face turns to a slight frown* I feel a kinship to him. Like that all Kran feel towards each other and the Lemurs. But it is different somehow.
...Now that we are all gathered, and the voting has started, our future is set...
*Arnigus* Have you seen him? Is he a danger?
...I know some of you may have concerns for your safety. But know that you are better protected in this room than anywhere else in the realm...
*Had* I can feel him, but he eludes me so far.
*Arnigus coughs to cover his surprise. Had never missed anything. If this \'other\' had escaped his detection...*
Excuse me, harlberry down the wrong pipe.
*Arnigus* Should we evacuate?
*Had* No. A moving target is to hard to protect. I do not think he means us ill. Somehow, I can feel it. Best stay here.
So I assure everyone, you can rest easy and enjoy yourselves until you are ready to cast your votes.
*Arnigus sits back and fingers one more message to Had* Tell Tybalt it is taken care of.
*Had nods and begins tapping his staff lightly on the floor in Monks Code. Someday, Arnigus was going to have to learn that code, though only monks were supposed to know it. A thought occurs to him. How did Had know it?*
-
*listens as the others speak and stands up soon after John has taken his seat.
It seems most of you have made up your mind already, but I will speak anyway, and you can trust that it is in all sincerity.
The further we have come in this process, the more I have seen the flaws in all of us, and the more I have realised that ruling our level can never be a one-man, or woman, job.
*smiles while nodding at Nilaya and Nerthrys.
I have nothing to boast about. My past is marked by sin, and there are no traces of noble blood flowing through my veins. I have had no education in politics and have never lead a larger group of people. Yet, even though aware of the great responsibilities that come with being an Octarch, I am not the least frightened, for I know that what I have become is the only thing that matters.
I once swore a vow of poverty, which disallows me to keep any richess. So you have not worry about greed ever becoming my master.
Fame and power, I might have gotten if I had proclaimed myself the supreme leader of Ashes, but I chose not to. As an Octarch, just like a guild member of Ashes, I seek to lead the people while remaining one of them. And I will listen to, and represent the voice of the people until the day it ceases speak to me...
*bows cautiously and sits down. Tybalt is about to write down two names on a paper before him, when he hears Had tap his staff against the ground, following a special rhythm.
I have not heard the code in many years
Turns to Had and nods, before going back to writing down the names.
-
I believe that leaves you Netrhys
*Meriner smiles to the Klyros.*
Have you made your decicion yet? Or would you like to hear from someone first?
-
Claps at Tybalts speech, a wicking grin spreading across his face. He thinks back at Tybalt, taking for granted the fact that weapons have been banned, and him actully think Amheh would go anywhere without a weapon of some sort...
By god he even took his dagger to the bath house.
The daylight out side loosing its brillance, indicating that the day was passing much quicker than anticipated...At least there was good food..And more importantly, some good company on its way..
Still grinning Amheh flashes a reassuring smile towards the others in the room.
-
*John pauses and looks around.*
\"Hm...what is this I feel?\" *Something else passes through his mind, and he goes back to eating his apple.* \"Those are good!\" *John says out loud.*
-
*had been given a summary of what has been going on before John entered, which she had more or less verbally cited to him upon his request. Despite knowing that this is the very final chance, she can\'t think of anything to ask anyone. Everything seems to have been said, when she remembers the note she was given.* {I must know what it says, maybe it\'s important...}
*shaking her head, she pulls the little note from her bag and starts to read it, taking a rather long time considering it\'s small size, then, finally, she puts it back in the bag and looks up, taking a deep breath. She didn\'t want extra attention, but she also knew it was the final opportunity. Thoughts racing in her mind* {Give a real choice... I must live with it... the future of all... } *is still maintaining her expression and voice*
Not if nobody wants to add anything to what has been said...
-
*turns back to Netrhys as she speaks. Wondering who would survive how long as Octarch with all the assasins who seem to be walking around, but manages to give Nethrys a sincere smile.*
I think most have been said indeed and perhaps even more then need be for the decicion, but better to much then to little I guess.
Well lets see if we have to have a second voting round or not.
*turns toward Arnigus.*
Time to count the votes.
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[ooc] I have not recieved votes from you or Seytra yet. As soon as I do, we can pass to the next step. Make sure you PM them to me. :) [/ooc]
Ok, that leaves Seytra. Votes are real close. ;)
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ooc: woops missend, well send it again :) Hope I don\'t send it to another candidate instead :S
*pokes Seytra.* hehe ;)
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*Nods, takes a piece of paper and borrows a quill, then proceeds to awkwardly scribble two names onto the paper. Without a word she folds it and places it in the slot* {It is done.}
OOC: I can hardly imply a question and not give time to answer. ;)
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*As the last vote is slipped into the slotted box, a quiet falls over the room. The crowd outside goes silent as well, the Sounding Glyph repeating every word to them. Arnigus stands slowly, his chair creaking with relief as his great mass leaves it. He reaches out and takes the box carefully, as if it is made of glass, though the thick, iron strapped, wooden sides are in no danger of breaking. It is the peace he is afraid of shattering. Once the votes were counted, there was no turning back.
He signals to Had and the big Kran walks over. Had bows his head formally and offers Arnigus a small key. The key to the future, as it were. With slightly trembling hands, he gives the box to Had for the Kran to hold while he opens it. It takes two tries to get the key into the small hole due to Arnigus\'s wobbling hands.
Then, there is a click. The box\'s lid slowly opens of its own accord, due to small springs in the hinges. Arnigus reaches into the box and pulls out not the folded votes, but a flat, slate covered book. He nods to Had, the Kran nods back and sets the box on the table and returns to the door. As Arnigus holds up the book, some may notice that there is a large Glyph imprinted on the cover. A simple but powerful Glyph meaning one thing... Truth.
Slowly, Arnigus opens the book, revealing the votes inside, neatly bound into the binding by heavy thread. The ink of the votes has been replaced by raised platinum, the paper by gold. Each page is marked by its own Glyph, also Truth. Arnigus begins paging through the votes. He clears his throat and begins speaking.*
I see that some of you have signed your names. A good precaution is most cases, but unnecessary here, as every vote was bound to its caster by the Glyphs in this book and the ones hidden in the box. I know that you are all...
*He stops at a page, one of his eyebrows rising. He then glances at Am-Heh before returning to the book.*
...honest and honorable people...
*He again glances at Am-Heh*
...though you must agree such precautions were needed.
*He turns to the eighth page. One that contains no votes...just the names of two people. One of whom was going to be the next Octarch. The hope of the people. Two small Glyphs appear on the page, one over each name. Every colored Way marks their surfaces in a complicated weave. Long leather cords pass through holes in the top of each. Arnigus takes the Glyphs and closes the book, resting it on the table.*
These two Glyphs are to be worn be those that you have chosen. They are badges, but also they are protection. No harm will befall you while they are worn, and they can not be removed by any power but that of the final election. They then lose all power. I tell you this so you know you have no fears. Please stand.
*All in the Council stand, some slowly, some fast. All gaze at the two Glyphs dangling from his grasp, slowly spinning at the ends of their cords. Arnigus waddles around the table towards a grinning Am-Heh. Am-Heh?s grin slips as Arnigus passes on, continuing until he reaches Nilaya. He reaches up and places one of the Glyphs around her neck, careful not to catch her ears.*
Nilaya Kaeli, you have been chosen by this council. Wear this Glyph with pride, and carry it with honor.
*Cheers can be heard outside. The fenki reaches up and touches the Glyph, then bows to Arnigus. Arnigus bows back and moves on, still holding the one Glyph. He passes by a smiling Tybalt, but instead of the smile fading as it had with Am-Heh, it grows larger. And for some reason it seems to be directed in Nilaya?s general direction. Was he?!?no, he couldn?t be?Arnigus shakes his head, thinking that it would be impossible for anyone to flirt in this situation. He must have been imagining things. Realizing Tybalt?s distraction had taken him past his other goal, he turns back. He reaches up and places the other Glyph around another neck.*
Netrhys Tanhren, you have been chosen by this council. Wear this Glyph with pride, and carry it with honor.
*Before she can react, Arnigus waddles back to the head of the table as swelling cheers begin out side.*
Kaeli?Tanhren?Kaeli?Tanhren?
*The cheers do not seem to be choosing between them?but celebrating the names equally. Arnigus smiles. So the people would accept either of them. Truly, this was a good sign. He turns to the Council, still smiling.*
With that, this Council is disbanded. Know that I am proud to have known and conversed with all of you. I take my leave now, for my job is done, as is yours?er?except for Netrhys and Nilaya of course. Soon, the voting shall begin, and one of you will be Octarch. I know that either you will do well. You will be receiving the official papers soon. I bid you all a good evening.
*Arnigus bows and walks stately out of the room?well, stately for a man nearly half as wide as he is tall. The damping Glyph is released, and Had enters. He begins handing back weapons with a look that tells all that they had better not use them in his presence. He then strolls back to the door, waiting for the Council to disperse while the cheers continue on outside.*
[ooc]Thank you all for participating. You all did so amazing I am sorry to see this cycle end. The goal of this endeavor was to bring role-playing back into the spotlight for a time, and in that, it has been a great success. Mostly due to you. Again, thank you. Now it is time for the final cycles. PMs will be sent to Candidates and a poll will be started sometime soon (hopefully within a few days).
Don?t forget to vote!
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*leaves the council chambers and sees it\'s night again.*
*Goes home for some well deserved rest.*
May the best person win :)
I am sure both of you will make a great Octarch so my dreams shall be pleasant ones I am sure :)
I am not surprised to see the two of you being candidates although some may :)
-
leaves the council quarters knowing that the city is in good hands.
\"Good luck to the both of you, twas good sport, but you have proven yourself worthy\"
*with that Druke pulls a glyph out and teleports back to wherever he came from*
-
*As the council members leave, John takes a last glance at Netrhys.*
\"So my plan has succeeded after all. This wasn\'t a complete failure. No, this was better than I have expected.\" *He thought as he walked towards Had.*
\"Here\'s your fine weapon, sire.\" *Said Had.* \"Maybe you\'ll have a better luck on next elections.\"
\"Maybe I will, Had...maybe I will.\" *John said as he was walking away, chuckling quietly.*
\"Me an Octarch, that could have been amusing, but the plan was the plan.\" *Were the last thoughts before John left the Council chambers.*
-
*smiles and bows at Nilaya and then also at Netrhys
I am relieved to see that you were the ones to succeed where I failed
Good luck to you both!
*nods at Arnigus, as if to thank him for organizing this, and then turns around, once again pulling his hood over his head. On the way out, Tybalt claps his hands, saying goodbye to Had in a way, probably, only the two can understand.
-
*That Arnngus walked past her didn\'t surprise her. That he came back did the more. The glyph he had placed around her neck made the realization dawn in her mind. She was one of the two chosen ones. With that, she couldn\'t keep the expression she had managed to maintain all along anymore, clutching her trembling hands towards her sides.*
I... uuh...
*shaking her head as she couldn\'t even think of a word to say, she slowly walks out and would have forgotten her weapons had Had not stopped her. Seeing the crowd, she wants to turn back but is frozen to the spot.*
{It shouldn\'t be me...}
*Looking at Nilaya another realization dawned her. She would be running versus Nilaya. Once more, her heart sank, and she quickly turns her gaze to the ground. She had been believing that having to run against Amheh would be the worst possible outcome, but in a way, this was even worse. Forcing a smile back onto her face, she slowly turns back to Nilaya, to see what she would do. Would they stay companions? Or would they henceforth be enemies?*
-
Nilaya\'s heart races as Arnigus draws forth two necklaces, wrapped in all the colors of the magical ways. Trying not to shake as he pauses behind her, she looks up.
\"Nilaya...\" The enkidukai\'s ears twitch as he places the glyph around her neck. Struck by the moment, she bows her head in silence...
\"Netrhys...\" he speaks...the words echo inside. Netrhys...?
She looks on as Druke, John, Meriner, and even Tybalt depart...Tybalt...for sure Tybalt would win...but...what happened...so unable to find words...
The thought comes around again. Netrhys... Netrhys? Nilaya! Say something. Yes.
Suddenly her eyes meet those of Netrhys, who is...discomforted? Moving quickly to join her at the door in but a few steps, she smiles warmly upon her friend, placing a paw on her shoulder. \"Netrhys...\" she whispers: \"...I\'m proud of you, friend.\"
A tingling sensation trickles up her spine, as if telling her something...is amiss. Turning her head slightly, she realizes that one is still seated at the table. With as much of an uncaring nod as she can muster, she adds gruffly: \"Let\'s go.\" The two leave the room.
Once clearly out of ear-shot and sight of the last candidate, she confides: \"I\'ll see you soon. Take care...and whatever you do...\" she nods her head in the direction of the conference room, grinning: \"Don\'t die.\" With an excited giggle, she turns and scampers vaguely in the direction of Hydlaa Forest. A final cheerful call rings out: \"Rest well, Netrhys!\"
-
Watching on as Arnigus reads the two names of the candidates, that are to step forth, one to be the next Octarch.
Most of the hopefuls follow with fixed gazes on the fat figure, as he proceeds to grab what seems to be a couple of cheap amulets and walks amongst the councillors.
Smiling as Arnigus aproaches, trying to be friendly to the obviously stressed, short and now very sweaty man. Amheh smile drops as Arnigus passes, flashing him a very smug look and proceeds to place one of the amulets around a now radiating Nilaya.
His mind already half pre-occupied by thoughts of vengence and retribution towards the other councillors. The other half on what he planned to do next, to fill in a little time in his never ending life of debauchery.
Bearly noticing as the other candidate is given her amulate,thus dubbed candidate number two of the round table...Amheh remains seated..
Wakes from his thoughts, brought back by the growing chanting from the crowd.....
Had stands patiently with Amhehs arsenal of weapons in his hands.
Standing and walking over to the large Kran, Amheh takes the assortment of swords, daggers and a garrotte still with bits of gristle and blood from its last victim. One at a time placing them in there respective place on his person.
The Kran nods, Amheh returns the gesture swiftly, then winks.
At this, Had murmurs.
\"You might want to use the back door.... The others left some time ago.\"
Smiling back, but then continuing out the frount doors. Amheh steps out into the crowd...
The crowd dropping in volume as many turn towards him. Amheh cheeks lift to form a sinister but charming grin...
\"The two Candidates as you all know have been chosen... Some what poorly.. but chosen none the less. Remember when voting. Chose carefully...Someones life is in your hands.\"
The crowd revelling in the fact they have an opportunity to celebrate something. Raise again in volume.
A few shady characters flash Amheh a grin equally as wicked as his own and motion for him to drink with them at the bar..
Enjoying the festivities through out the night. Drinking, gambling, drinking , flirting and doing even more drinking. Amheh opens his eyes briefly to see a beautful lady asleep on either side of him..Not quite sure where he is.. or really caring, closes his eyes again and falls asleep..Smiling as his previous thoughts of the day take seed in his head...Ready to be exercised some time soon in the near future.
-
*letting out a sigh of relief at Nilayas words, she even manages a faint smile. As Nilaya departs, she gazes into the distance for a while before she walks away as well, back to the back alleys, trying not to think of what the next days might bring. She still felt awkward, but not as bad as before.*