RPG
Introduction
"Displeased with the wicked world around them, ancient scholars broke it up into the smallest components and elements they knew. Then, using only the craft of the mind, they began to build it back pure again. In this way alchemy was born, to disassemble the wrong, and to reassemble it right."
This is the fable that alchemists use to explain their namesake craft. It is also the origin tale of Crossroads, a land in which alchemy is the most valued science. Large and sprawling, it is a perpetually expanding kingdom that encompasses several smaller regions, all caught in the technological era of locomotion and clockwork. With science at the very forefront of their matters, the people of land live in peace with one another... That is, when not at battle over the alchemical crafts themselves. Indeed, it seems that at the heart of any major conflict, there is always a scientific secret to be had. Whether it's a battle over stolen artifacts, or an experiment gone rancid at the loss of human life, the very same powers that protect humanity also tend to deform it. Now rumors have started to spread throughout the kingdom; Rumors that the legendary Eternal Knowledge, an artifact that grants the user a powerful understanding of all alchemical substances, has been located in the Feral South. As a result, scientists from all across the land have begun traveling there, all hoping to find the artifact for him or herself. Many alchemists would kill for such an item... others already have.
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Welcome to the adventure roleplay Alchemist's Waltz. The story takes place in the fantasy land of Crossroads, a continent that is technologically similar to 18th century Europe. Players may take on the role of alchemists in search of the Eternal Knowledge, or any other type of character so long as it engages them in the plot. I'll explain important features such as the alchemy itself and the people of Crossroads in detail, so long as players try to read and understand them before posting a character. *Note* This is NOT a Fullmetal Alchemist roleplay, though it does feature similar concepts as that is a primary inspiration. Alchemist's Waltz is not based in the same universe or the same places.
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The Alchemy of this land is not the same as the protoscience of ours, but draws heavy inspiration from the alchemy featured in the anime Fullmetal Alchemist (if you haven't seen it, you're not at any disadvantage. The alchemy here is similar, but not identical). It can most easily be described as the study and understanding of the various chemical substances that make up the world, a sort of altered chemistry. Alchemists then use this understanding to break apart the materials and recreate them however they see fit. For many this is done in a lab, but highly skilled alchemists are capable of doing it instantaneously by redirecting their own neuro-electric current into their hands and then through the material by touch. This allows them to perform mage-like alterations at the cost of their own body's energy. It takes a great deal of understanding to do so however, and most alchemists devote all of their studying into the mastery of a single substance as a result. The range and power of the alterations (referred to as "transmutations") performed at any given time depends on the energy spent by the chemist, as well as the properties of the material involved. Transmutation circles featured in traditional alchemy work as equations to help in the understanding of a chemical's properties- though not necessary for use in transmuting known materials, with careful preparation they can allow the transmutation of unfamiliar substances that characters do not yet fully understand. In the roleplay itself, I will only allow mastery of a single or few materials per character for the sake of balance. Players may choose what these materials are, but I'll notify you promptly if I feel the skill at which your character uses them is overpowered/unbalanced. Viewers familiar with the Fullmetal series may recount instances where monumental objects and landscapes were moved with alchemy. Don't expect to be capable of the same.
Alchemical Talents: (Just examples, you're welcomed and encouraged to come up with many original and new talents) Clockwork Engineering (the ability to transmute clockwork technology into devices to fit your needs), Bioengineering (the ability to alter or mutate the anatomy of other organisms), Sulfur Mastery (Use of the chemical sulfur in compounds to create instant explosives), Stone Mastery, Gas Mastery, Gold Smithing, etc...
http://i767.photobucket.com/albums/xx319/Beaten_with_a_Rock/CrossRoadsMap-2.jpg?t=1281930868
Crossroads is a kingdom at the edge of the world's furthest Western continent. Founded several hundred years ago, it is populated by both the original settlers and a range of newer immigrants. The kingdom is known for its network of railroads which connect its inner cities and villages, as well as pave the way for further continental expansion. Three main "Gate" cities act as bases of further development in either direction away from the coast, though the far north and "Feral South" are both largely unexplored. Other major cities of Crossroads include Bay City, the main port of trade across the Merchant Sea, and Eastern Relay, a boiling pot of cultures and the "home-away-from-home" of most Eastern immigrants. The capital of the land, however, is Northgate, a city from which most railways originate and the home of the world's finest Alchemy Universities. Crossroads is historically significant as being the only land domesticated with the use of alchemy, put forth in clearing through a coastline mountain range in the initial settlement. It has since been used regularly to clear any formation that obstructs further settlement of the land, though expansion is currently halted at the western Mountain Barrier while scientists study its properties before deciding how to go about the transmutation.
Technology among the West is a combination of clockwork mechanisms, steam powered locomotives, and sulfur based gunpowder. While some scientists study in the field of alchemy, others perfect early rifles and explosives. Common among clockwork and gunpowder enthusiasts are revolver-type weapons, though their use is still debated and controversial. You're more likely to encounter a blade in combat then a gun, as cartridge based ammunition is still in its early phases, and only true engineers are ever likely to have it. Alchemists and engineers do have a sort of brainchild though, found in the ability to store energy in clockwork mechanisms for later use in transmutation. Particularly well-wound pocket watches and steam cores are often carried by alchemists to add an extra kick in transmutations when needed. Similarly, the power from entire locomotives can be harnessed by skilled alchemists and redirected into a well-planned transmutation for maximum power (a common trick used in clearing landmasses).
There are no traditional "beast" races of the West. Monster and man are not common place in the same body, as it is not the nature of this world. They are, however, joined in common place at the hands of science. Skilled alchemists have joined many creatures and formed many strange, new races as a result. Because of the difficulty in binding anatomical structures, few transmuted creatures ever survive, so when a pair is found that bonds easily, it is often repeated more often then others for the sake of practice. This practice has created entire communities of the human "Chimeras" and many take refuge with their own kind. That said, it is extremely rare to see them interacting in normal society. Most aquatic chimera (the most frequent bond being Homo delphus) live in the off-shore "Pearl Palace", a makeshift underwater society. The human village of Courier Town is frequent to forest dwelling chimera (the second most common bond being Homo ursus) both visiting and lodging there. Even the major city of Westgate has seen a good deal of mountain dwelling chimera (A third frequent Homo lupus) as common nomads. Other variations of chimera exist, but these three are noteworthy as being more human in appearance then others- they retain the form of a man, with the skill and senses of the beasts (dolphins, bears, and wolves respectively). Because many are underprivileged and discriminated against, it is rare to see a chimera that is capable of alchemy, since to study it would take a great deal of exposure to human alchemists.
The Guild of Alchemists is an alternate storyline that takes place in the city of Northgate and follows the activities of a secretive organization of alchemists and engineers whose abilities surpass those outside of it. The characters of this storyline may be borrowed from the original or completely new entities altogether. Guild members can be expected to be specialists in unique fields that aren't fully understood or even known of in the outside community. The goals and practices of each member vary, but a widely desired project is to master and obtain the element of "Aether". That is the objective at the start of the roleplay.
The Guild itself is located underground beneath the Northgate marketplace. The entrance is a small Rune Shop which sells stamps and scriptures in ancient tongues. A tunnel in the shop's cellar is adorned with alchemical scriptures and symbols in a luminescent chalk, leading to the bright and open courtyard of the actual guild. Still located underground, the courtyard is lit by a magnificent kerosene lamp fixed into the ceiling like a sun. The ceiling itself is painted in appropriate sky blue, with constellations marked out in brilliant gemstones. The courtyard is a vibrant landscape where many young alchemists go to practice their arts, while more advanced lectures and practices are held in the inner labs of the complex. Though less aesthetically impressive then most Northgate structures, the complex achieves excellence through its mechanized architecture, as rooms and corridors shift in space. The only constant among the buildings clockwork structure is single boiler room from which the shifts are powered and directed. They work in order to take advantage of a powerful magnetic current by regularly positioning four rare-earth magnet rooms at the corners of the structure, then back at the center again. The intense repulsion of these magnets creates a renewable power source that the members can tap into with every center shift. Other noteworthy features include the Archives and, less proudly, the Dungeon. Part of the secrecy of the Guild maintains that their members are fully aware of the horrors that await those who betray them...
In practice, Guild members act as colleagues and work to better themselves and each other. Their origins and reasons for joining all vary, but all hold the Guild as the most sacred and respected organization. Many joined through invitation and word of mouth, though there are no known hierarchy members to coordinate this. The oldest and most well known members are those who operate structural shifts, campus munitions, and those in charge of security of secrecy. The only clear difference between them and anybody else is a black cloak worn by these members, unlike the commonplace red one for most. Many members stay and live on the Guild's grounds, though some pursue a life outside. This is not taboo or frowned upon, but it is always made clear that you are seemingly never free of the Guild's surveillance.
(I designed all of the JPEG graphics in this introduction myself. Please make a request or otherwise notify me if you'd like to use them anywhere other then this site. If you have a request for character icons of a basic or similar quality, you may also PM me.)
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Here's the character bio below. Don't be afraid to come up with new races, talents, places and even devices for your characters to use and practice- be unique!
Name: (as well as any aliases)
Race: (If not human or one of the aforementioned races, be clear about what it is)
Gender:
Age:
Appearance: (Be descriptive! Especially with chimera- note any physical giveaways to your true race. Remember, no pictures unless drawn by yourself for the character.)
Apparel: (Your character's clothes/armor)
Equipment: (Any weapons, tools, items, etc. your character would have on them)
Alchemical Talents: (explain what your character is capable of and what substances they've mastered. I'll only allow mastery of a few substances per person)
Personality:
History: (Be sure to include where your character was born, any training they may have had, where they have traveled, etc. If your character is an immigrant from the East, be sure to explain what their homeland is like. Crossroads is very much a sort of American-analog; try to think of a European/Asian/African analog if you can. Help make the world seem functional ^_^)
Rules
1. RoleplayGateway rules all apply. I'll reiterate them as I see necessary.
2. No godmodding, powerplaying, etc. Your characters shouldn't be performing amazing feats outside their field of expertise, either. Shifting entire continents isn't exactly going to fly by me.
3. Good grammar is appreciated. If it doesn't start at the character bio, don't expect to be accepted.
4. Post length varies, but try to provide detail and at least a few lines. I don't want an essay for a post, but a single sentence won't do.
5. No senseless NPC slaughter. It's not cool and it's not that fun to read. Save your game for real people.
6. Be cool and let people know if you're not going to be active. If a lot of people are involved at a time and you have to go, don't freeze other people up. Get your character out of there!
7. Romance is cool and all, but no making whoopie in my roleplay. That's PM material.
8. No pictures in place of character appearance. Unless drawn for the character specifically, they only limit the potential for originality.
9. Pop a ":3" face in the end of your character bio to show me you've read everything. Have fun!
2. No godmodding, powerplaying, etc. Your characters shouldn't be performing amazing feats outside their field of expertise, either. Shifting entire continents isn't exactly going to fly by me.
3. Good grammar is appreciated. If it doesn't start at the character bio, don't expect to be accepted.
4. Post length varies, but try to provide detail and at least a few lines. I don't want an essay for a post, but a single sentence won't do.
5. No senseless NPC slaughter. It's not cool and it's not that fun to read. Save your game for real people.
6. Be cool and let people know if you're not going to be active. If a lot of people are involved at a time and you have to go, don't freeze other people up. Get your character out of there!
7. Romance is cool and all, but no making whoopie in my roleplay. That's PM material.
8. No pictures in place of character appearance. Unless drawn for the character specifically, they only limit the potential for originality.
9. Pop a ":3" face in the end of your character bio to show me you've read everything. Have fun!
Reviews
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View All »Characters
Emil "Jack" Yahto played by Anno Domini
Nineteen year old liquids alchemist. Son of the late Victor Yahto, a former alchemist and creator of the fabled Alkahest, "Universal Solvent".
Andrew Edwards played by chris45
The young Bioalchemist who is blocked by the shadow his wealth parents cast
Xavier Incendio played by Lightningflash
"Excuse me, have you ever heard of the Philosopher's Stone?"
Creeden Thorwalp played by Vio-Lance
A grand inventor, known for his...eccentric attitude and vocabulary...as well as quite a few grand inventions.
Lain Caleglia played by LainReadman
An Alchemist that uses peculiar methods... In search of the Truth.
Terra Arrowny played by pioneercadet
A fiercely independent and naturally curious young wolf-girl seeking the power to take her race from second-class to top dog.
A Footsoldier of the State Military, trained to kill and defend the land. Strong and determined, he is willing to do anything for his country.
Beval "Brown" Koshovska played by Anno Domini
A Chimeran Clockwork Alchemist out to prove his worth. *Guild Character*
Visit »The Orphanage
These poor, unfortunate souls were once a part of this great world, but have been abandoned. Why don't you consider viewing their profiles and making a decision on whether or not you can roleplay them accurately?
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Places in Alchemist's Waltz
214 postsCrossroads
A Western kingdom of massive proportions.
99 postsGuild of Alchemists
The secret society of advanced alchemists who share their techniques and operate unknown to the outside world, conveniently hidden in the most active city of the West.
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Activity
OOC Notes
Sunlight poured out across the land, announcing to Emil and the rest of the kingdom that morning had come. It just now started to filter into the Northgate station through large openings in the roof, waking the young alchemist from where he slept on a bench. The dull roar of crowds was quieter at this hour, but nonetheless present in the busy lobby. It was the Central Hub at Northgate, the largest train station in Crossroads and possibly even the world. It was located in the center of town and left those inside it as just tiny specks to its massive size. Tugging out his pocketwatch to glance at the time, Emil stood and began towards the ticket booth. It would be opening soon and he hoped to purchase a ticket to Southgate as soon as possible. Ever since the chatter of the potential "Eternal Knowledge" had spread, it had become nearly impossible to get a seat on any train heading south.
~Alchemists and prospectors alike are after this one... Doesn't seem like anyone's willing to budge.~ Emil thought as he leaned against a pillar close by to the unopened booth. His light blue tunic had a faint shimmer in the light, as if wet even when it wasn't. He felt that it stood out too much, but didn't concern himself with changing it. He looked like a nomad, and until he completed the Alkahest, that's what he was. But he felt hopeful about today... like it was the first of many to come, and like he was the first of many others, towards finding what they truly wanted. Of course, it was just a feeling.
~Alchemists and prospectors alike are after this one... Doesn't seem like anyone's willing to budge.~ Emil thought as he leaned against a pillar close by to the unopened booth. His light blue tunic had a faint shimmer in the light, as if wet even when it wasn't. He felt that it stood out too much, but didn't concern himself with changing it. He looked like a nomad, and until he completed the Alkahest, that's what he was. But he felt hopeful about today... like it was the first of many to come, and like he was the first of many others, towards finding what they truly wanted. Of course, it was just a feeling.
OOC Notes
Creeden yawned heavily, as he shoved his arms under his head, his eyes still locked shut. It was his day off. He could sleep in.... But for some reason, his bed was unusually hard this morning.... He turned and began to roll over on his side...
WHUMP.
Creeden smacked the floor with a thump, and groaned. The hard floor did a good job in muffling him. That's right...he didn't even go to bed last night. He flopped over onto his back, and looked up around him. Sure enough he was still in the shop. He had fallen asleep fine-tuning parts for his newest invention....He would look over to the clock on the wall, it's twisted hands matching the heaps of junk that lie around him. Eight-twenty. Creeden would sigh as he pulled himself to a sitting position, and then to a stand. He looked to the desk on which he had fallen asleep on. The mechanical 'heart' of his creation sat there, nearly completed. He grinned to himself as he thought about the marvel as it would be completed. His clockwork arm reached forth, and grabbed the power source, and walked it over to a cabnet. Reaching to a pocket on his overalls, he claimed a key. He jarred it into the lock, and opened the furniture. He placed his 'heart' into the cabnet, and locked it away with the other miscilanious parts that he had assembled. It was to be his greatest creation yet.
He looked back over to the clock. Creeden had time for a good breakfast before he went off to go shopping. He would pat himself down, making sure he had his billfold in it. Once he was sure of that, he pulled his apron from his body. Placing it on a nearby junk-covered workbench. He never really knew why he wore it- His clothes ended up filthy regardless. But he digressed. Everyone in this city almost had seen him dirty, and knew that he walked around in his muggy work clothes. They honestly didn't seem to mind. Well, the high-noses did, but a smitiferous pox upon them. He rather hated people that thought they were better than everyone else. He shook off the thought though, as he began to walk out of the large double-doored building, and locking it behind him.
He started down the streets of Bay City, smirking as her shoved his hands in his pockets as he looked around. The early birds were already up, and bustling around the city. A man wearing a straw hat hussled down the street, a crate under each arm. "'Ey'ya, Cre'en. Love ta chat, bu' I'm in a big rush. Boss fella wants this at 'is warehouse. Ca'ch ya la'er though!" He said, jogging straight past the orange haired mechanic. "Rightright, Olivar. Splintiferous ta work for tha' man, ain't it!?" He called after him with a laugh, as the man began to go farther and farther off. Creeden kept his pace, having in mind where he'd like to have breakfast.
He reached the place in question, a rustic old building, compared to some of the ones around it. His mechanical arm escaped his pocket to push open the door, to be greeted with chairs and tables, as well as a few barmaids. Of course, it was a tavern-like establishment. The traders that loved Bay City also appreciated it's diverse styles. But Creeden had known the owner of this eatery for quite some time, and they were good friends. He quickly found himself an open table, and would take a seat, resting his arms on the surface in front of him. It wasn't long before one of the waitresses had made their way over to him.
"Whot kinnae git'cha, hon?" She asked kindly.
"Mnnh, I believe I'll have eggs, over-medium, and a few slices of pork. Biscuts too, please. Oh! And I'll have some milk to drink!" He said warmly. The waitress nodded, and walked back into the back kitchen, from which the most delectcious aroma drifted from. Creeden could only grin as he again began to put together his invention in his head. He had been working on such a fantastic work for nearly a decade now. He just had to put on the finishing touches.... He waited on his meal in remote quiet, the sounds of the eatery around him filling the place. He wondered if he could do some traveling today...
WHUMP.
Creeden smacked the floor with a thump, and groaned. The hard floor did a good job in muffling him. That's right...he didn't even go to bed last night. He flopped over onto his back, and looked up around him. Sure enough he was still in the shop. He had fallen asleep fine-tuning parts for his newest invention....He would look over to the clock on the wall, it's twisted hands matching the heaps of junk that lie around him. Eight-twenty. Creeden would sigh as he pulled himself to a sitting position, and then to a stand. He looked to the desk on which he had fallen asleep on. The mechanical 'heart' of his creation sat there, nearly completed. He grinned to himself as he thought about the marvel as it would be completed. His clockwork arm reached forth, and grabbed the power source, and walked it over to a cabnet. Reaching to a pocket on his overalls, he claimed a key. He jarred it into the lock, and opened the furniture. He placed his 'heart' into the cabnet, and locked it away with the other miscilanious parts that he had assembled. It was to be his greatest creation yet.
He looked back over to the clock. Creeden had time for a good breakfast before he went off to go shopping. He would pat himself down, making sure he had his billfold in it. Once he was sure of that, he pulled his apron from his body. Placing it on a nearby junk-covered workbench. He never really knew why he wore it- His clothes ended up filthy regardless. But he digressed. Everyone in this city almost had seen him dirty, and knew that he walked around in his muggy work clothes. They honestly didn't seem to mind. Well, the high-noses did, but a smitiferous pox upon them. He rather hated people that thought they were better than everyone else. He shook off the thought though, as he began to walk out of the large double-doored building, and locking it behind him.
He started down the streets of Bay City, smirking as her shoved his hands in his pockets as he looked around. The early birds were already up, and bustling around the city. A man wearing a straw hat hussled down the street, a crate under each arm. "'Ey'ya, Cre'en. Love ta chat, bu' I'm in a big rush. Boss fella wants this at 'is warehouse. Ca'ch ya la'er though!" He said, jogging straight past the orange haired mechanic. "Rightright, Olivar. Splintiferous ta work for tha' man, ain't it!?" He called after him with a laugh, as the man began to go farther and farther off. Creeden kept his pace, having in mind where he'd like to have breakfast.
He reached the place in question, a rustic old building, compared to some of the ones around it. His mechanical arm escaped his pocket to push open the door, to be greeted with chairs and tables, as well as a few barmaids. Of course, it was a tavern-like establishment. The traders that loved Bay City also appreciated it's diverse styles. But Creeden had known the owner of this eatery for quite some time, and they were good friends. He quickly found himself an open table, and would take a seat, resting his arms on the surface in front of him. It wasn't long before one of the waitresses had made their way over to him.
"Whot kinnae git'cha, hon?" She asked kindly.
"Mnnh, I believe I'll have eggs, over-medium, and a few slices of pork. Biscuts too, please. Oh! And I'll have some milk to drink!" He said warmly. The waitress nodded, and walked back into the back kitchen, from which the most delectcious aroma drifted from. Creeden could only grin as he again began to put together his invention in his head. He had been working on such a fantastic work for nearly a decade now. He just had to put on the finishing touches.... He waited on his meal in remote quiet, the sounds of the eatery around him filling the place. He wondered if he could do some traveling today...
OOC Notes
Nathaniel Steed had just arrived at the train station. He checked his pocket watch, and he was making his way with plenty of time to spare. As was customary, he had made arrangements ahead of time. He purchased a ticket on the train headed to Southgate a few days prior to the journey, however even with his planning, he could not get a booth on the passenger cart all to himself. He was going to have company, and it was going to be quite a long trip.
Nate pulled out the ticket to double check the information. He was there a lot earlier than the train; indeed, the ticket booths weren't even open yet. He had already had a nice breakfast, and so had plenty of time, it seemed, to inspect the area. It was quite a large train station, though that wasn't really a surprise. They were in Northgate, the relay station for almost every train in the entire country of Crossroads that wanted to go anywhere else.
Although the train station was quite large and it was still fairly early, it seemed that there were quite a few people there already. There was no doubt that many of them were probably alchemists. There had been a lot of talk about the "Eternal Knowledge," and since the rumors started, novices and adepts alike were beginning to swarm the south like rabid bees. Nathaniel was after the same thing, of course, although it went on record as being a "Business Trip."'
Nathaniel wasn't one for nonsensical trips to find lost relics from a time long gone, but something inside of him told him that even if he didn't find The Eternal Knowledge, that there was some other reason for this adventure. Perhaps redemption, perhaps realization, or maybe something even he could not foresee.
And so, there was Nathaniel Steed, in the train station, waiting for departure.
Nate pulled out the ticket to double check the information. He was there a lot earlier than the train; indeed, the ticket booths weren't even open yet. He had already had a nice breakfast, and so had plenty of time, it seemed, to inspect the area. It was quite a large train station, though that wasn't really a surprise. They were in Northgate, the relay station for almost every train in the entire country of Crossroads that wanted to go anywhere else.
Although the train station was quite large and it was still fairly early, it seemed that there were quite a few people there already. There was no doubt that many of them were probably alchemists. There had been a lot of talk about the "Eternal Knowledge," and since the rumors started, novices and adepts alike were beginning to swarm the south like rabid bees. Nathaniel was after the same thing, of course, although it went on record as being a "Business Trip."'
Nathaniel wasn't one for nonsensical trips to find lost relics from a time long gone, but something inside of him told him that even if he didn't find The Eternal Knowledge, that there was some other reason for this adventure. Perhaps redemption, perhaps realization, or maybe something even he could not foresee.
And so, there was Nathaniel Steed, in the train station, waiting for departure.
OOC Notes
Food... Water... I haven't had a decent meal in days...
Tobias stumbled through the outskirts of a unknown town. People stared at him keeping their distance. He must have looked a right mess, dirty, bloody, and bruised, limping away through town.
In a last ditched effort to save himself he threw himself at a passerby.
"Food... Please..." He croaked.
The man brushed him off and kept walking.
O cruel world, must it end like this?
"Get up ya stupid bastard! Just cause ya didn't get your ration for breakfast today doesn't give you the right to be actin' like a moron!" The man yelling kicked him in the ribs, "And ya sure as hell deserve a hellava lot mor'n just a beatin' and nay supper or breakfast for letin' them banits get away! I hired ya ta guard my caravan, not doze of at four 'n the frik'n af'ernoon!"
"Leave it alone! You had me up till four in the morning the night before with your stupid war stories!" Tobias cried out in defence.
"Shaddap! And you call yourself the ace of swords!" The man spat in disgust, "And dun expect no pay fer dis!"
Tobias pulled himself onto his knees, bowed his head, and started of in rapid fire, "Please kind sir, I need the money for my family. My sister has fallen ill and I'm journeying through the lands searching for a cure. It was just one small mistake, I'll never do it again! I prooooomise!!"
"Git outta my sight! My grandma could guard better 'n ya!" The man turned and strode off.
Tobias lay there for a few more moments till he raised his head, when he did he was wearing a large grin. The roaming merchant hadn't noticed it when he had cut his coin purse, and slipped it in his pocket. He hopped to his feet and called to a nearby person, "So where can I get a decent breakfast?"
Tobias stumbled through the outskirts of a unknown town. People stared at him keeping their distance. He must have looked a right mess, dirty, bloody, and bruised, limping away through town.
In a last ditched effort to save himself he threw himself at a passerby.
"Food... Please..." He croaked.
The man brushed him off and kept walking.
O cruel world, must it end like this?
"Get up ya stupid bastard! Just cause ya didn't get your ration for breakfast today doesn't give you the right to be actin' like a moron!" The man yelling kicked him in the ribs, "And ya sure as hell deserve a hellava lot mor'n just a beatin' and nay supper or breakfast for letin' them banits get away! I hired ya ta guard my caravan, not doze of at four 'n the frik'n af'ernoon!"
"Leave it alone! You had me up till four in the morning the night before with your stupid war stories!" Tobias cried out in defence.
"Shaddap! And you call yourself the ace of swords!" The man spat in disgust, "And dun expect no pay fer dis!"
Tobias pulled himself onto his knees, bowed his head, and started of in rapid fire, "Please kind sir, I need the money for my family. My sister has fallen ill and I'm journeying through the lands searching for a cure. It was just one small mistake, I'll never do it again! I prooooomise!!"
"Git outta my sight! My grandma could guard better 'n ya!" The man turned and strode off.
Tobias lay there for a few more moments till he raised his head, when he did he was wearing a large grin. The roaming merchant hadn't noticed it when he had cut his coin purse, and slipped it in his pocket. He hopped to his feet and called to a nearby person, "So where can I get a decent breakfast?"
OOC Notes
"I wonder what's so great about this Eternal Knowledge thing anyway?" Issac said, crossing his arms as he and Murcery made their way down Main Street. it was early, but already the smells of freshly baked bread and other such delecious smells were wafting in the breeze from several shops along the main drag of Bethfel, as they always did this early. "Oh well, thanks to dad we already have a ticket for the train, now all we have to do is get there, right boy?" Looking over at his friend, for he was too large to look down on, even for a full grown man, the chimera let out a happy noice, something between a low bark and a soft growl. Even though the people of his hometown were used to the sight of Mercury, a man passing them by jumped at the noice, making the pair laugh a little.
Yes, Issac's father had been planning to go on thie journey himself, however his mother wasn't feeling too well. Nothing dangerous, she just needed a few days rest, but his father was a very caring man, and seeing as how his beloved wife was ill, he passed on the train ticket to Southgate to his boy. Really they wouldn't need it, Issac and Mercury, for it wouldn't take too long a time to simply walk there, as every now and then Mercury would allow issac to ride on his back, and that made things move faster.
Adjusting his Mitts Issac lets out a sigh as the small Bethfel train station comes into view. "There we go boy. Come on, when we get on the train I'll let you have a snack, how's that then?" In response to this the chimera let out a happy roar and they both picked up the pace. Soon enough they were in the main part of the station, but it seemed that would be as far as they may go.
"Whaddaya mean I con't take Mercury with meh?!" Issac nearly yelled at the man behind the ticket booth. "He's me best frend, I con't jus lev im ere!" Although he tried to use language fully and properly at all times, as his mother had taught him, he had a difficult time with it as he became angry.
"I'm sorrie, ba we doona allow beasties on our trains..." the man said, tremmbling a little, as now Mercury was standing up on his hind legs, cursious as to why they weren't getting on the train as planned. "I'll havta ask ya ta lev now boyo, sorrie..."
Grumbling, Issac turns and raises his hand, then uses his metal glove to make a clicking sound, the signel to Mercury that it was time to go, although the chimera really didn't know it. It seemed sometimes that it gained the thinking power of both the wolf and the bear from which it had been created, making it very smart indeed. Just before the odd pair made their way back through the entrance of the station issac tosses the train ticket over his shoulder and frowns as several men whom had looked rather respectable before, dived to the floor in order for their chance to grab it, and through it the Eternal Knowledge.
Yes, Issac's father had been planning to go on thie journey himself, however his mother wasn't feeling too well. Nothing dangerous, she just needed a few days rest, but his father was a very caring man, and seeing as how his beloved wife was ill, he passed on the train ticket to Southgate to his boy. Really they wouldn't need it, Issac and Mercury, for it wouldn't take too long a time to simply walk there, as every now and then Mercury would allow issac to ride on his back, and that made things move faster.
Adjusting his Mitts Issac lets out a sigh as the small Bethfel train station comes into view. "There we go boy. Come on, when we get on the train I'll let you have a snack, how's that then?" In response to this the chimera let out a happy roar and they both picked up the pace. Soon enough they were in the main part of the station, but it seemed that would be as far as they may go.
"Whaddaya mean I con't take Mercury with meh?!" Issac nearly yelled at the man behind the ticket booth. "He's me best frend, I con't jus lev im ere!" Although he tried to use language fully and properly at all times, as his mother had taught him, he had a difficult time with it as he became angry.
"I'm sorrie, ba we doona allow beasties on our trains..." the man said, tremmbling a little, as now Mercury was standing up on his hind legs, cursious as to why they weren't getting on the train as planned. "I'll havta ask ya ta lev now boyo, sorrie..."
Grumbling, Issac turns and raises his hand, then uses his metal glove to make a clicking sound, the signel to Mercury that it was time to go, although the chimera really didn't know it. It seemed sometimes that it gained the thinking power of both the wolf and the bear from which it had been created, making it very smart indeed. Just before the odd pair made their way back through the entrance of the station issac tosses the train ticket over his shoulder and frowns as several men whom had looked rather respectable before, dived to the floor in order for their chance to grab it, and through it the Eternal Knowledge.
OOC Notes
The morning sun shone through windows coated with years of grime, glass panels warped with age. The tiny room it managed to penetrate into was not in much better condition. Bookshelves bowed with the weight of tomes old and new on a variety of subjects, and of all the objects in the room, these were the least coated in dust, and still showed signs of use. A bedside table made of an unrecognizable wood supported a silvery-colored pocket watch with an equilateral triangle engraved upon the cover. Clothes in varying shades of brown and orange littered the uneven wooden floors, and covered the single chair in the space. The desk was covered in books and loose sheaves of paper, the handwriting on them nearly indecipherable in its haste.
A small bed with rough woolen covers was shoved into one corner. As the single ray of sunlight strong enough to pass the windows into this dingy refuge moved with time to hit it, the blankets stirred, and a tousled head of bright red hair appeared from beneath them. A solitary arm stretched outward, leaving the warmth of the blanket cocoon and fumbling about blindly before at last landing on the pocketwatch, easily worth more than everything else in the room combined. A thumb found and depressed the opening mechanism before the watch, too, disappeared under the drab brown fabric. All was silent for a few moments, then-
"Dammit!" The blankets flew to the side, and bleary pair of amber-colored eyes cast around the room with swiftness not usually managed this soon after waking up. Grabbing the first garments she managed to some across- which may or may not be clean- Stella threw on her rust-colored, specially-designed flame resistant shirt and one of several two-layered skirts before shimmying into her leggings and pulling on her one pair of boots. The belts and bandolier came next, and she did a quick equipment check. Satisfied that she had her knives, her gun, her goggles, and her chemicals, Stella grabbed her rather pitiful satchel of funds and a piece of bread before dashing out the door, only to run back, throw on her trademark long orange scarf, and hasten out again, not even bothering to lock the door behind her.
She had ten minutes to make her train. An engineer for the Crossroads government, Stella was being sent to investigate the rumors of Eternal Knowledge. She had to admit, it was a fair bit more interesting than sitting around fusing sulfur to metal all day, and something about the adventure might prove to be a challenge, an occasion that the young alchemist always relished but rarely found. Besides, her agency was paying for the entire thing, and that was the best excuse she'd ever had to live well for once.
She bolted to the station at full-tilt, small frame and quick feet keeping her from crashing into anyone or anything, and flashed her ticket at the attendant. When she reached the platform, she swore again under her breath. The train was already leaving. Gritting her teeth, she let the rest of her measly breakfast fall to the ground, and pumped both arms as she made a mad dash for the caboose. Luckily, the people in her path were wise enough to know when to get the heck out of someone's way, and the running leap she made for the last car just allowed her to grasp the railing of the train and swing herself aboard.
Glancing around, she noted that several people back at the station were gaping at her, and she studiously ignored them, dusting off her clothes as though nothing out of the ordinary had happened at all, and walking into the last car through the door at the back of the train. Southgate, here I come.
A small bed with rough woolen covers was shoved into one corner. As the single ray of sunlight strong enough to pass the windows into this dingy refuge moved with time to hit it, the blankets stirred, and a tousled head of bright red hair appeared from beneath them. A solitary arm stretched outward, leaving the warmth of the blanket cocoon and fumbling about blindly before at last landing on the pocketwatch, easily worth more than everything else in the room combined. A thumb found and depressed the opening mechanism before the watch, too, disappeared under the drab brown fabric. All was silent for a few moments, then-
"Dammit!" The blankets flew to the side, and bleary pair of amber-colored eyes cast around the room with swiftness not usually managed this soon after waking up. Grabbing the first garments she managed to some across- which may or may not be clean- Stella threw on her rust-colored, specially-designed flame resistant shirt and one of several two-layered skirts before shimmying into her leggings and pulling on her one pair of boots. The belts and bandolier came next, and she did a quick equipment check. Satisfied that she had her knives, her gun, her goggles, and her chemicals, Stella grabbed her rather pitiful satchel of funds and a piece of bread before dashing out the door, only to run back, throw on her trademark long orange scarf, and hasten out again, not even bothering to lock the door behind her.
She had ten minutes to make her train. An engineer for the Crossroads government, Stella was being sent to investigate the rumors of Eternal Knowledge. She had to admit, it was a fair bit more interesting than sitting around fusing sulfur to metal all day, and something about the adventure might prove to be a challenge, an occasion that the young alchemist always relished but rarely found. Besides, her agency was paying for the entire thing, and that was the best excuse she'd ever had to live well for once.
She bolted to the station at full-tilt, small frame and quick feet keeping her from crashing into anyone or anything, and flashed her ticket at the attendant. When she reached the platform, she swore again under her breath. The train was already leaving. Gritting her teeth, she let the rest of her measly breakfast fall to the ground, and pumped both arms as she made a mad dash for the caboose. Luckily, the people in her path were wise enough to know when to get the heck out of someone's way, and the running leap she made for the last car just allowed her to grasp the railing of the train and swing herself aboard.
Glancing around, she noted that several people back at the station were gaping at her, and she studiously ignored them, dusting off her clothes as though nothing out of the ordinary had happened at all, and walking into the last car through the door at the back of the train. Southgate, here I come.
OOC Notes
Creeden would watch as his meal was brought to him. The smell of food only tickled his nostrils as the woman bearing it drew near. She would set his plate down in front of him, a wooden spoon and a tin fork placed already sunk into the eggs. He wouldn't wait any longer to satisfy his grumbling stomach, a storm amonst the quiet patrons. He ate quickly and , rapidly, manners nonexistant (while there were no ladies around). While he ate he saw a small group sitting a table over. He wasn't usually one for listening to ramble, but when the word "Knowledge" entered the air, his intrest was captured as if in a bear trap.
"Yeh, yeh! Tha's it then, we set out fer tha' Feral South! Dat knowledge is good as ours! An' we'll make it big!" One man said.
"Indeed! Eternal Knowledge shall become our fortune. Very clever, boss!"
Creeden had heard enough, and decided to interject himself....He was quite curious about this...Eternal Knowledge...
"Pardon me. I hope ya don't mind my evesdropification, but, what are ya talkin' about? What's 'Eternal Knowledge'?
The men turned to face Creeden, all three of them.
"Ya dumb er som'tin?" One asked. "Ya dunno whot Eternal Knowledge is!?"
"Even a reject like ya should know wha' somethin' like that is." Another proclaimed in a raspy voice.
"My good friend, Eternal Knowledge beith an artifact, one that supposedly gives the user alchemic mastery over EVERYTHING! Rumor has it is in the Feral South!" The last said. The other two looked harshly at this one, before the first smacked the back of his head. "Why dun' ya jus' tell 'im where your valuables are stashed, Phaspher?!"
Creeden couldn't believe what he was hearing. He himself barely had a grasp on metal transumations; iron, bronze, copper, and on good days, steel. If he could turn anything into anything else? That be beyond outstanding! His mind raced ahead of him, thinking of the things he could invent.
"Thankies, gentlemen!" Creeden said, rising from his table. His hand dashed to his pocket, and nearly ripped out his wallet. Placing the adequate ammount of money for his meal on the table, he turned back to the three. "But if'in you'll excusify me, I need to do some locatifications! This is a mindploding discovery, I tell you!" He announced as he walked out of the eatery. His pace quicked as he moved back towards his store. Once there, he unlocked the doors, and moved inside quickly. He ran about his things, gathering them up in a heavy cloth knapsack: Changes of clothes, tools, amunition for his weapon, more tools, a few materials, and a bit of money from his savings. He quickly locked back up, and ran to the front of his store - one where shoppers would enter. He opened the door, and retrieved a sign on a string. He ran back outside, and hung the sign from the string. He would then make his way to the trainstation...
Extendified Outage. Please come back at more belate time.
"Yeh, yeh! Tha's it then, we set out fer tha' Feral South! Dat knowledge is good as ours! An' we'll make it big!" One man said.
"Indeed! Eternal Knowledge shall become our fortune. Very clever, boss!"
Creeden had heard enough, and decided to interject himself....He was quite curious about this...Eternal Knowledge...
"Pardon me. I hope ya don't mind my evesdropification, but, what are ya talkin' about? What's 'Eternal Knowledge'?
The men turned to face Creeden, all three of them.
"Ya dumb er som'tin?" One asked. "Ya dunno whot Eternal Knowledge is!?"
"Even a reject like ya should know wha' somethin' like that is." Another proclaimed in a raspy voice.
"My good friend, Eternal Knowledge beith an artifact, one that supposedly gives the user alchemic mastery over EVERYTHING! Rumor has it is in the Feral South!" The last said. The other two looked harshly at this one, before the first smacked the back of his head. "Why dun' ya jus' tell 'im where your valuables are stashed, Phaspher?!"
Creeden couldn't believe what he was hearing. He himself barely had a grasp on metal transumations; iron, bronze, copper, and on good days, steel. If he could turn anything into anything else? That be beyond outstanding! His mind raced ahead of him, thinking of the things he could invent.
"Thankies, gentlemen!" Creeden said, rising from his table. His hand dashed to his pocket, and nearly ripped out his wallet. Placing the adequate ammount of money for his meal on the table, he turned back to the three. "But if'in you'll excusify me, I need to do some locatifications! This is a mindploding discovery, I tell you!" He announced as he walked out of the eatery. His pace quicked as he moved back towards his store. Once there, he unlocked the doors, and moved inside quickly. He ran about his things, gathering them up in a heavy cloth knapsack: Changes of clothes, tools, amunition for his weapon, more tools, a few materials, and a bit of money from his savings. He quickly locked back up, and ran to the front of his store - one where shoppers would enter. He opened the door, and retrieved a sign on a string. He ran back outside, and hung the sign from the string. He would then make his way to the trainstation...
Extendified Outage. Please come back at more belate time.
OOC Notes
Xavier shielded his eyes from the morning sun that beat down upon the small city of Bethfel. The alchemist's searchfor the Philosopher's Stone had brought him to the small town, as a rest stop on his way to Southgate. The intoxicating aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, inevitably drawing him over to a small shop, where he bought a small roll, still hot from the oven. After thanking the shopkeeper for her hospitality, Xavier wandered back into the streets, gazing at the milling traffic laid out in front of him. Suddenly, he noticed something strange; a boy, about his own age, walking down the street with an oversized wolf.
"No," he murmered, "A chimera." Working his way closer to the strange duo, Xavier caught a snippet of what the young man was saying. "...Eternal Knowledge..." was all he heard. Instantly, the scientist's face lit up. The Eternal Knowledge! That was, after all, the reasonhe was in this little hamlet. Perhaps the other alchemist knew a little more than he did.
Xavier tried to work himself towards the man, but the street had become much more crowded than before. Soon, he had almost lost sight of them. Luckily, just before they escaped his field of vision, Xavier saw the boy and his chimera turn into the train station. It took him a few minutes to work his way through the crowd, but he finally caught them leaving the building. The young man looked slightly irked and disappointed. "I'm sorry to intrude, but I couldn't help but overhear you," he said, removing his hat in a respectful gesture. "I believe you were talking about the Eternal Knowledge? I am Xavier Incendio, and if I have guessed correctly, a fellow alchemist. If you are in need of a ride to Southgate, I'm going there as well. You are more than welcome to travel with me."
"No," he murmered, "A chimera." Working his way closer to the strange duo, Xavier caught a snippet of what the young man was saying. "...Eternal Knowledge..." was all he heard. Instantly, the scientist's face lit up. The Eternal Knowledge! That was, after all, the reasonhe was in this little hamlet. Perhaps the other alchemist knew a little more than he did.
Xavier tried to work himself towards the man, but the street had become much more crowded than before. Soon, he had almost lost sight of them. Luckily, just before they escaped his field of vision, Xavier saw the boy and his chimera turn into the train station. It took him a few minutes to work his way through the crowd, but he finally caught them leaving the building. The young man looked slightly irked and disappointed. "I'm sorry to intrude, but I couldn't help but overhear you," he said, removing his hat in a respectful gesture. "I believe you were talking about the Eternal Knowledge? I am Xavier Incendio, and if I have guessed correctly, a fellow alchemist. If you are in need of a ride to Southgate, I'm going there as well. You are more than welcome to travel with me."
OOC Notes
Waiting with hard-earned patience, Emil let his eyes glance across the room as he stood idle. There were a good amount of folks around, but it was still fairly easy to tell which ones were alchemists. Usually it was a pocketwatch that gave it away, or a large amount of equipment on hand. Some folks looked like walking laboratories. But recently it had come to the point that they didn't really stand out- science was a profession, and a booming one at that. Other chemists were common place. That's probably why Emil wasn't entirely shocked to see locomotive manufacturer and famed steam alchemist Dr. Steed pacing by the booth. Emil had studied his work before, particularly in an effort to manipulate the temperature of fluids, but was somewhat surprised to see how young he looked in contrast to his pictures.
Taking a look down at his watch once more, he figured it couldn't hurt much to catch up with him and have a word. As he moved after Nathaniel, oblivious to the fact that he was mistaking him with his late father, he called out in a calm but attention-grabbing voice "Doctor Steed! Doctor Steed, is that you?" Emil had really only read of the late doctor in his father's books and was completely oblivious to his death. He figured if anything it was he who owned this very station.
Taking a look down at his watch once more, he figured it couldn't hurt much to catch up with him and have a word. As he moved after Nathaniel, oblivious to the fact that he was mistaking him with his late father, he called out in a calm but attention-grabbing voice "Doctor Steed! Doctor Steed, is that you?" Emil had really only read of the late doctor in his father's books and was completely oblivious to his death. He figured if anything it was he who owned this very station.
OOC Notes
Nate heard his name being called fervidly. He knew that he risked being known when he embarked on this journey, but so soon? He sighed in a frustrated manner, but by the sound of it, it was just a young admirer or some prodigy looking to know about the work of either him or his father. He wasn't in the mood for a mini-press conference. He turned around and walked toward the young man calmly, and intercepted him before he drew any more attention than he might have already.
"Keep your voice down. I don't need anybody to know that I'm here."
He hesitated to cover the boy's mouth, but motioned for him to stay silent. He gave him a once over, inspecting him for anything out of the ordinary. Nothing seemed to be out of order, however he felt like he had seen at least half of that face before.
"If you're going to speak to me, at least walk with me and make it look like I'm nobody. The last thing I need is you turning my journey into a disaster before it's even begun." He spoke snidely, as though aggravated, but kept his voice calm and unnoticeable.
"Keep your voice down. I don't need anybody to know that I'm here."
He hesitated to cover the boy's mouth, but motioned for him to stay silent. He gave him a once over, inspecting him for anything out of the ordinary. Nothing seemed to be out of order, however he felt like he had seen at least half of that face before.
"If you're going to speak to me, at least walk with me and make it look like I'm nobody. The last thing I need is you turning my journey into a disaster before it's even begun." He spoke snidely, as though aggravated, but kept his voice calm and unnoticeable.
OOC Notes
"Xavier Incendio huh? Fancy name, I take it you're not from around here are ya?" Issac asks, stopping, Mercury at his side, as he was acosted by a man about his age. After taking the front corner of his hand in hand he tipped it, causing his 'luna' symbol to make a clinking noice against his glove, then introdused himself. "Name's Issac Kain, and yes, I am an alchemist of sorts." he then lowered his hand and crossed his arms before him as Mercury let out a low growl. "Calm down boy, he's harmless. And even if he ain't, no one would be foolish enough to start anything with so many other around. Now, am I to understand that you have another method of travel, other than this train? Cause I was just denied passage cause they won't allow Mercury here onboard. If you've got some other way a movin' then sure, I'll go with ya, but otherwise, me and Mercury are gonna hoof it from here. After all, Southgate isn't that far from here."
His language was 'still a bit country' as his father would say, as he was till annoyed at the ticket master of this station. Everyone in Bethfel knew of Issac Kain and his chimeric wolf, and that they never went anywhere apart, but even so Mercury wasn't allowed aboard, and so neither was he by default. Every second he was calming down more, but just slightly, and so after patting Mercury on the head he motioned for Xavier to move aside with them for a moment so they could talk without the noise of the station to hinder their ears.
His language was 'still a bit country' as his father would say, as he was till annoyed at the ticket master of this station. Everyone in Bethfel knew of Issac Kain and his chimeric wolf, and that they never went anywhere apart, but even so Mercury wasn't allowed aboard, and so neither was he by default. Every second he was calming down more, but just slightly, and so after patting Mercury on the head he motioned for Xavier to move aside with them for a moment so they could talk without the noise of the station to hinder their ears.
OOC Notes
Emil blinked some, embarrassed with how he had reacted, but compliant. He began to walk alongside the man, doing his best to look casual as he queried. "Pardon me sir, but journey? Where could you be headed?" As he walked Emil periodically glanced back over his shoulder to see if the booth had been opened yet. Steed was moving towards the boarding platform, but Emil had yet to even purchase a ticket. He was so dumbfounded by his presence that he didn't even stop to consider the implications- two alchemists, boarding a train in the same station, both around the same time. But he couldn't picture an este(a)med alchemist such as Steed traveling for the South. It seemed... dangerous.
All the while they walked, Emil was trying to correct the mistake in his head. The pictures he'd all seen of Steed featured a much older man and, though the one before him certainly wasn't a portrait of youth, he couldn't possibly be the same crow from what were twenty year old books. ~A son...~ Emil thought, ~he must have had a son. Another alchemist, that's likely, right?~
All the while they walked, Emil was trying to correct the mistake in his head. The pictures he'd all seen of Steed featured a much older man and, though the one before him certainly wasn't a portrait of youth, he couldn't possibly be the same crow from what were twenty year old books. ~A son...~ Emil thought, ~he must have had a son. Another alchemist, that's likely, right?~
OOC Notes
Creeden had finally come upon his destination. This was all so sudden! One rumor, and he was off. Normally, he wouldn't be so brash upon such rabble, but what made him so eager to was the alchemic possiblities. He needed something done, and noone he knew, even Kingdom wide, sold what he needed. So he needed an alchemist of great skill. And someone whom held this...Eternal Knowledge could grant him it. He himself, personally could live without the ability to make rusty iron into solid gold. But he needed this material beyond all reason. It's what kept him from his greatest invention.
Magnetite.
If an alchemist could grant him magnetite, he could complete his creation. And his heart needed that. Needed. Creeden was very well known around Bay City, and he even might've been known worldwide, though he doubted it. This would be his trademark, along with his firearm. This would be his mark on the world. When he died, his invention would live on for millinia, other inventors would look back on him as a great. A legend. A man whom paved the way. It all depended on this journey. But he couldn't do it alone.... His expansive mind began to think as he stood at the train station. His spoke to himself. "Well. I figure if I want it, more 'an half the world wants it. And when greed comes to it, greed courrupts. People would murder others over this. This was essentially anythin' a person could ever want. Wealth, ability, fame. Hell, could be food 'n drink too. Only thing they'd need is a woman.... Wait...could alchemy create another person?" He asked the air around him...or the people that looked at him like a loon at the station.
He shrugged to himself, before going to sit on a bench, resting his knapsack on the ground. He reached into his pocket, and pulled out a pocket watch. The device read 9:10. He looked at when the train was scheduled to reach his destination in about an hour. Looks like he had a lot of waiting to do....
Magnetite.
If an alchemist could grant him magnetite, he could complete his creation. And his heart needed that. Needed. Creeden was very well known around Bay City, and he even might've been known worldwide, though he doubted it. This would be his trademark, along with his firearm. This would be his mark on the world. When he died, his invention would live on for millinia, other inventors would look back on him as a great. A legend. A man whom paved the way. It all depended on this journey. But he couldn't do it alone.... His expansive mind began to think as he stood at the train station. His spoke to himself. "Well. I figure if I want it, more 'an half the world wants it. And when greed comes to it, greed courrupts. People would murder others over this. This was essentially anythin' a person could ever want. Wealth, ability, fame. Hell, could be food 'n drink too. Only thing they'd need is a woman.... Wait...could alchemy create another person?" He asked the air around him...or the people that looked at him like a loon at the station.
He shrugged to himself, before going to sit on a bench, resting his knapsack on the ground. He reached into his pocket, and pulled out a pocket watch. The device read 9:10. He looked at when the train was scheduled to reach his destination in about an hour. Looks like he had a lot of waiting to do....
OOC Notes
Andrew woke to the sound of barking dogs. He lifted his head up and looked around it was dark the only light was that of the candle on his desk, he was sitting in a chair. His hands were folded to be a cushion for his head against the hard wooden desk. He pulled his hands away from the desk and leaned back in his chair. He had fallen asleep in his office at the university again. He kept hearing the sound of barking,he got up and looked toward the door. Two wolf like dogs stood at the door watching it closely. Andrew smiled and walked to the door, he opened it and the dogs dashed out with great speed. Andrew walked behind them and watched as the stopped at a second door. Andrew opened it and he was blinded by the light from the sun. the dogs ran out and they started to roll around in the grass that was near the door. Andrew waited for the dogs to return and when they did he closed the door and walked back to his office. He opened his office door and the dogs walked toward the back of the office and laid down. Andrew stared at the curtains in his office he walked to them and moved them aside to get to the window. He opened it and let the sunlight pour in.
Andrew let out a yawn and he glanced at the dogs who did the same. He than heard the sound of a bird squawking loudly. He turned toward the door where he saw a cage, inside the cage was a hawk pruning it’s feathers. Andrew walked over to the cage and opened it, he petted the bird and it seemed to enjoy the feeling of his touch. He smiled and than closed the cage, he went back to his desk to look at the messy pile of papers. He picked up a piece of paper that interested him. It was a note from a professor at the university, the letter read “my how time flies, it’s already been a year since you started working for me. Yet it only feels like yesterday, I remember when I used to tutor you and had to scold you for not paying attention. Well enough about me getting old, I want to tell you about this “Eternal Knowledge” everyone is talking about, you see I get the feeling this “Eternal Knowledge” will hold many things that can help better man kind for future generations. That is why I want to ask you to do me a favor, take the journey and find this “Eternal Knowledge” I’m to old and have to much work on my hand to do it myself, so let me live this last adventure through you my boy.” Andrew smiled after finishing the letter.
He nodded and said to himself “ alright, looks like I got some packing to do.” he than heard a knock at the door. He ran to it and opened it and a man roughly in his late forties, early fifties stood in the door way. Andrew said to the man “ Doctor Stonewall, how are you.” the doctor looked at Andrew and said “I would be much better if I could have that report you owe me.” Andrew snapped his fingers and said “ ah, that’s what I was doing before I fell asleep. Ok let me get that for you.” Andrew went to his desk and shuffled through the papers. He than started to go through his drawers ad than pulled out a brown leather folder. He handed the doctor the folder and said “ that should be all of it.” the doctor looked through it and said “your missing the part on chimeras, did you not do the research?” Andrew started to pack things inside his bags and he said to the doctor “ you know what, I didn’t get that part done. But I have a solution, I’m going to go on a trip and when I get back I will have a full report on chimeras for you.” the doctor responded “ I need that report by tonight.”
Andrew shook his head and said “well I’m sorry but my hands are tied, have one of the other researchers do it for you. I’m sure they would be delighted to do my work.” after saying that Andrew opened up the bird cage and let the hawk fly out. It flew to his shoulder and he petted it. Andrew than took his bags and started to walk out the door. The two wolf dogs followed after him closely. Andrew waved back to the doctor without turning around and said “ I’ll see you later doctor.” after leaving the university grounds he arrived at his house, he began to pack his bags with clothing and supplies he might need. He than went to his safe and took out some money. The amount he took out was excessive, but he wanted to be sure things would go smoothly on his trip. After that he took his bags and headed off toward the train station.
Andrew let out a yawn and he glanced at the dogs who did the same. He than heard the sound of a bird squawking loudly. He turned toward the door where he saw a cage, inside the cage was a hawk pruning it’s feathers. Andrew walked over to the cage and opened it, he petted the bird and it seemed to enjoy the feeling of his touch. He smiled and than closed the cage, he went back to his desk to look at the messy pile of papers. He picked up a piece of paper that interested him. It was a note from a professor at the university, the letter read “my how time flies, it’s already been a year since you started working for me. Yet it only feels like yesterday, I remember when I used to tutor you and had to scold you for not paying attention. Well enough about me getting old, I want to tell you about this “Eternal Knowledge” everyone is talking about, you see I get the feeling this “Eternal Knowledge” will hold many things that can help better man kind for future generations. That is why I want to ask you to do me a favor, take the journey and find this “Eternal Knowledge” I’m to old and have to much work on my hand to do it myself, so let me live this last adventure through you my boy.” Andrew smiled after finishing the letter.
He nodded and said to himself “ alright, looks like I got some packing to do.” he than heard a knock at the door. He ran to it and opened it and a man roughly in his late forties, early fifties stood in the door way. Andrew said to the man “ Doctor Stonewall, how are you.” the doctor looked at Andrew and said “I would be much better if I could have that report you owe me.” Andrew snapped his fingers and said “ ah, that’s what I was doing before I fell asleep. Ok let me get that for you.” Andrew went to his desk and shuffled through the papers. He than started to go through his drawers ad than pulled out a brown leather folder. He handed the doctor the folder and said “ that should be all of it.” the doctor looked through it and said “your missing the part on chimeras, did you not do the research?” Andrew started to pack things inside his bags and he said to the doctor “ you know what, I didn’t get that part done. But I have a solution, I’m going to go on a trip and when I get back I will have a full report on chimeras for you.” the doctor responded “ I need that report by tonight.”
Andrew shook his head and said “well I’m sorry but my hands are tied, have one of the other researchers do it for you. I’m sure they would be delighted to do my work.” after saying that Andrew opened up the bird cage and let the hawk fly out. It flew to his shoulder and he petted it. Andrew than took his bags and started to walk out the door. The two wolf dogs followed after him closely. Andrew waved back to the doctor without turning around and said “ I’ll see you later doctor.” after leaving the university grounds he arrived at his house, he began to pack his bags with clothing and supplies he might need. He than went to his safe and took out some money. The amount he took out was excessive, but he wanted to be sure things would go smoothly on his trip. After that he took his bags and headed off toward the train station.
OOC Notes
"Good observation," Xavier said, smiling. "I'm an immigrant from Arenae." He followed Isaac out into the street, away from the deafening noise of the train station. “I came to this country to search for the Philosopher’s Stone. The Eternal Knowledge may be what I’m searching for. It certainly fits the criteria.” The alchemist laughed softly at his own joke before continuing. “And yes, I have transportation. When I landed in Bay City, I bought a horse drawn cart. It’s not the fastest form of travel, but Southgate isn’t very far from here. Besides, I’ve heard rumors of bandits around those parts. It’s safer to travel in groups.”
Xaver was trying to stay on topic, but his gaze kept travelling to Mercury. “I’m sorry if this seems suddene, but that is a marvelous chimera specimen you have there. You’re lucky I’m not a bioalchemist; I might have tried to take him and run off!”
Xaver was trying to stay on topic, but his gaze kept travelling to Mercury. “I’m sorry if this seems suddene, but that is a marvelous chimera specimen you have there. You’re lucky I’m not a bioalchemist; I might have tried to take him and run off!”
OOC Notes
Tobias scoffed down the last of the last of his breakfast while sitting outside a local diner. Sausage, eggs, bacon, and coffee. The breakfast of champions.
He studied the area around him with sharp eyes. He was in Narta, a slum six miles from Southgate. He had heard the roumers of the Eternal Knowledge being located in the Feral South, but couldn't get a spot on any trains from Bay City, so he hooked up with a man named Jared, an arms dealer heading south for a huge weapons deal. Sadly Tobias failed at his guard duties, the goods had been stolen, and he had been ditched.Luckily he had been ditched at his final destination. He had a contact in the Narta slum that claimed to know something about the Eternal Knowledge.
The waitress walked over to clear up his plates, "Ma'm you wouldn't happen to know how I can find a man named Kenneth Huntington?"
The young woman's eyes widened with something resembling fear. She rushed off before he could ask what was wrong.
"What happened?" Tobias muttered to himself.
Tobias asked around for Kenneth, but no one gave him a straight answer. He was prepared to give up when a little old woman dressed in rags grabbed his coat, "Sonny, I 'erd tha'cha were lookin' for Kenny..."
Tobias stared at her for a second, deciphering what she had said. He still wasn't used to the accent that came with most Crossroads dwellers yet. Finally he responded, "Yeah, I am. Do you happen to know what happened to him?"
"Ahh, bu' ma memory's gettin' old with ma body.... It migh' need some joggin', ya'know?"
Was this little old lady asking for a bribe?
"Here, ten silver?" Tobias counted out the money. The woman gave him a look.
"Twenty?" He asked.
"Tha'll do..." The woman croaked, "Ya wan'ed ta know where Kenny is?"
Tobias nodded.
"Sorry, I don' know tha..."
"What the hell!?" Tobias cried, at the little old woman.
"But I do know wha' happn'd ta him." She continued, "I saw i' wit' ma own eyes! Them upperclass foke from tha city came'n took 'im away!"
"From Southgate?"
"Ya, there were tree! On of 'em were real tall 'n had a black pony tail thin', 'nother was real big roun' tha waist, 'n I didn' get a good look a' tha last, bu' he was a alchemist! He made the groun' move!"
"Are you sure about that?" Tobias asked slightly worried. If he had indeed been an alchemist, he might have been after the information on the Eternal Knowledge too...
"Ya, I swear on ma life... For all its worth..."
"Thanks miss, I better go now." Tobias said, and strode off darkly.
"I'll be thankin' of ya tonight when ma belly's full!" The woman called after him, but he didn't even hear it, he was lost in his own personal worries.
He studied the area around him with sharp eyes. He was in Narta, a slum six miles from Southgate. He had heard the roumers of the Eternal Knowledge being located in the Feral South, but couldn't get a spot on any trains from Bay City, so he hooked up with a man named Jared, an arms dealer heading south for a huge weapons deal. Sadly Tobias failed at his guard duties, the goods had been stolen, and he had been ditched.Luckily he had been ditched at his final destination. He had a contact in the Narta slum that claimed to know something about the Eternal Knowledge.
The waitress walked over to clear up his plates, "Ma'm you wouldn't happen to know how I can find a man named Kenneth Huntington?"
The young woman's eyes widened with something resembling fear. She rushed off before he could ask what was wrong.
"What happened?" Tobias muttered to himself.
Tobias asked around for Kenneth, but no one gave him a straight answer. He was prepared to give up when a little old woman dressed in rags grabbed his coat, "Sonny, I 'erd tha'cha were lookin' for Kenny..."
Tobias stared at her for a second, deciphering what she had said. He still wasn't used to the accent that came with most Crossroads dwellers yet. Finally he responded, "Yeah, I am. Do you happen to know what happened to him?"
"Ahh, bu' ma memory's gettin' old with ma body.... It migh' need some joggin', ya'know?"
Was this little old lady asking for a bribe?
"Here, ten silver?" Tobias counted out the money. The woman gave him a look.
"Twenty?" He asked.
"Tha'll do..." The woman croaked, "Ya wan'ed ta know where Kenny is?"
Tobias nodded.
"Sorry, I don' know tha..."
"What the hell!?" Tobias cried, at the little old woman.
"But I do know wha' happn'd ta him." She continued, "I saw i' wit' ma own eyes! Them upperclass foke from tha city came'n took 'im away!"
"From Southgate?"
"Ya, there were tree! On of 'em were real tall 'n had a black pony tail thin', 'nother was real big roun' tha waist, 'n I didn' get a good look a' tha last, bu' he was a alchemist! He made the groun' move!"
"Are you sure about that?" Tobias asked slightly worried. If he had indeed been an alchemist, he might have been after the information on the Eternal Knowledge too...
"Ya, I swear on ma life... For all its worth..."
"Thanks miss, I better go now." Tobias said, and strode off darkly.
"I'll be thankin' of ya tonight when ma belly's full!" The woman called after him, but he didn't even hear it, he was lost in his own personal worries.
OOC Notes
"Don't question me. I know what I am doing. Something tells me that you already know as well. Try not to say things that don't need an explanation." The tone of his voice resembled the crack of a whip. Nathaniel half-expected the boy's spine to straighten and his gaze to snap to attention.
"I presume that you already know who I am since you know my last name. It's silly to assume that I wouldn't be recognized at some point. So please, keep quiet about me, and I might just let you go on your way." Nate seemed to growl as he spoke, but something in his voice denoted uncertainty. His mind was brewing something up. Several ideas flew around in his brain. And of course, there was the matter of familiarity of face. He still couldn't place the boy, but he felt like he had seen him before.
"My name is Nathaniel Steed," he finally said without an uneasiness in his manner of speech. "I am traveling south for business. That's all you need to know for now. If you want to know more, ask the ticket booth to put you in "27-D." They will hopefully have not given that ticket out yet."
A stirring began as several booths began to open up. Nathaniel began walking towards the train platform.
"Better hurry, kid."
"I presume that you already know who I am since you know my last name. It's silly to assume that I wouldn't be recognized at some point. So please, keep quiet about me, and I might just let you go on your way." Nate seemed to growl as he spoke, but something in his voice denoted uncertainty. His mind was brewing something up. Several ideas flew around in his brain. And of course, there was the matter of familiarity of face. He still couldn't place the boy, but he felt like he had seen him before.
"My name is Nathaniel Steed," he finally said without an uneasiness in his manner of speech. "I am traveling south for business. That's all you need to know for now. If you want to know more, ask the ticket booth to put you in "27-D." They will hopefully have not given that ticket out yet."
A stirring began as several booths began to open up. Nathaniel began walking towards the train platform.
"Better hurry, kid."
OOC Notes
That old woman said the alchemist with the men 'made the ground move', so the Alchemist must have been a mineral based alchemy user. There are no veins of metal under the slum, so I can rule metal alchemy out. No, wait... There are copper pipes underneath the whole area around Southgate for plumbing. He might have used them. Or stone alchemy?
Tobias pondered about the description of the incident he had been given as he wandered in the general direction of the main city of Southgate.
I can search through the city's directories for registered alchemists with those sorts of abilities. They'd have to be alchemists of a high enough caliber to preform instant transmutations too... But if he's an unregistered alchemist what then? There's no way I could find him then!
Tobaias shook his head driving away his negativity, he could do it, he could find this guy.
Tobias pondered about the description of the incident he had been given as he wandered in the general direction of the main city of Southgate.
I can search through the city's directories for registered alchemists with those sorts of abilities. They'd have to be alchemists of a high enough caliber to preform instant transmutations too... But if he's an unregistered alchemist what then? There's no way I could find him then!
Tobaias shook his head driving away his negativity, he could do it, he could find this guy.
OOC Notes
hmm test?
OOC Notes
Issac could only laugh at Xaviers last words on the subject of Mercury. "And you would have had a time trying it too," he says, "Mercury here, that's his name, is half black bear and half timber wolf. My father created him years ago, and we've been insperable since then. He's strong and ferocious as a bear, but swift and agile as a wolf, with the brains of the two put together." he smiles then and pats Mercury on the head. The chimera then nudges his packback, causing Issac to nod, "Right, the treat...here you go boy." After rumaging through his belongings he pulls out an odd thing, a large piece of dried meat coated in a layer of honey, and tosses it to Mercury.
"Now, as I understand things, you'd like me to travel with ya?" Issac finally asks, crossing his arms once more after adjusting his pack. "Well, I suppose that couldn't hurt. Mercury's as fast, if not faster than a horse, and I'm sure he'd be more than enough to turn away any bandits, show 'em Mercury." With that the chimera raises up onto it's hind legs and, after finishing his treat, lets out a roar that shakes the ground and echos throughout the town, before sinking back down and picking his teeth with one of it's long claws. "So, we going to get moving?" Issac then asks with a big smile as many people scream and scatter away from them.
"Now, as I understand things, you'd like me to travel with ya?" Issac finally asks, crossing his arms once more after adjusting his pack. "Well, I suppose that couldn't hurt. Mercury's as fast, if not faster than a horse, and I'm sure he'd be more than enough to turn away any bandits, show 'em Mercury." With that the chimera raises up onto it's hind legs and, after finishing his treat, lets out a roar that shakes the ground and echos throughout the town, before sinking back down and picking his teeth with one of it's long claws. "So, we going to get moving?" Issac then asks with a big smile as many people scream and scatter away from them.
OOC Notes
Stella stood at the back of the train for some time, allowing herself to enjoy the view. She was no steam alchemist, but she had a better-than-average (some had said "genius," others "barbaric") knowledge of combustion, and seeing it put to slightly less-than-obvious use was always interesting. Her talents were employed these days in the manufacture of incendiary devices for both military and infrastructure uses, but there had been a time when she was consumed in the much more interesting field of cutting-edge alchemical research.
Yeah, and remember how well that worked out for you. Just keep your head down and do what you're told; people like you better that way. The thoughts were laced with no small amount of bitterness, and for a moment she wondered if living a humiliation-free existence was worth all the self-loathing it produced in consequence.
Then again, who knew? Maybe, if she found the Eternal Knowledge, she could finally prove herself worth something to the scientific community. Maybe Crossroads would be more friendly to a young female alchemist than Westmarck had been. Maybe- oh for the sake of the Philosopher's Stone, you're being pathetic. Deciding she was rather unfond of the path her thoughts were taking, Stella settled upon a change of scenery. A quick check of her ticket indicated that she'd been placed in Cabin 27-D. That was pretty close to the back, so she only had to maneuver through a few different cars before she reached the correct one.
Apparently, nobody else had been put in here yet, but she supposed that might change as the train pulled into the next few stations along the way. She didn't have anything to stow in the bag storage area, so she chose instead to sit down on one of the upholstered benches, and cast about for something to do. Unfortunately, there wasn't much of anything to occupy her mind save for the selfsame scenery, and so she watched the trees and fields go by, wondering absently what sort of alchemy might be found in the Feral South, and what sorts of people she might encounter on her way.
Yeah, and remember how well that worked out for you. Just keep your head down and do what you're told; people like you better that way. The thoughts were laced with no small amount of bitterness, and for a moment she wondered if living a humiliation-free existence was worth all the self-loathing it produced in consequence.
Then again, who knew? Maybe, if she found the Eternal Knowledge, she could finally prove herself worth something to the scientific community. Maybe Crossroads would be more friendly to a young female alchemist than Westmarck had been. Maybe- oh for the sake of the Philosopher's Stone, you're being pathetic. Deciding she was rather unfond of the path her thoughts were taking, Stella settled upon a change of scenery. A quick check of her ticket indicated that she'd been placed in Cabin 27-D. That was pretty close to the back, so she only had to maneuver through a few different cars before she reached the correct one.
Apparently, nobody else had been put in here yet, but she supposed that might change as the train pulled into the next few stations along the way. She didn't have anything to stow in the bag storage area, so she chose instead to sit down on one of the upholstered benches, and cast about for something to do. Unfortunately, there wasn't much of anything to occupy her mind save for the selfsame scenery, and so she watched the trees and fields go by, wondering absently what sort of alchemy might be found in the Feral South, and what sorts of people she might encounter on her way.
OOC Notes
Xavier jumped in fright at Mercury's roar. "You're right," he said, "No one will bother us with him around. And we can leave as soon as I gather my things from my the inn, it's right over there." He gestured to the small stone building across the street, about a block down. "I'll be right back." Xavier jostled his way through the crowd. He made his way into the inn, and walked into his room to gather his things. After donning his hat and grabbing his cane from beside the door, Xavier briskly strode outside. The small red stones on the handle drew the attention of some of the more shady occupants, but the alchemist met no trouble on his way back.
"You ready to leave?" Xavier asked Isaac as he approached the young man. "We just have to stop at the stables. On another note," he continued, beginning to walk down the cobblestone street, "You said you were an alchemist. Do you have any specialties?"
"You ready to leave?" Xavier asked Isaac as he approached the young man. "We just have to stop at the stables. On another note," he continued, beginning to walk down the cobblestone street, "You said you were an alchemist. Do you have any specialties?"
OOC Notes
"Silver, actually. Well, mainly really, though I'm alright with dirt or stone as well." Issac says freely, his hands crossed behins his head. Mercury followed silently behind them looking around from here to there, wondering where they were headed. "I'm hoping to someday be able to transmute minerals such as amethyst and quarts. My father used stones like that, alone with metals, mostly silver of course, to create scupltures for my mother to sell." He smiles a the thought of being able to provide his father with enough materials for his creations to alst a lifetime without having to mine of them or buy them. "Oh, what about you? You did say you were an alchemist too right? Just not a bioalchemist."
As the neared the stables Mercury stayed a little ways back, knowing that he frightened the animals there, and also knowing that their noises hurt his sinsetive ears. And so, making sure he could see everything clearly, the rather large chimera sat down on the cobbletone pathway that lead to and around the stables, and began to play with a passing beetle, poking it ever so gently with his claws.
As the neared the stables Mercury stayed a little ways back, knowing that he frightened the animals there, and also knowing that their noises hurt his sinsetive ears. And so, making sure he could see everything clearly, the rather large chimera sat down on the cobbletone pathway that lead to and around the stables, and began to play with a passing beetle, poking it ever so gently with his claws.
OOC Notes
"I could find this guy... What was I thinking?" Tobias groaned as he exited the city hall. Ever the rumors of the Eternal Knowledge being located in the Feral South had spread dozens of proficient alchemists had passed through Southgate on their way south.
He dropped himself on the foot of the grand building's steps, took off his cap and ran his had through the short brown mess on the top of his head, "What to do... What to do..."
Most alchemists heading south'd be in or around the trade district, for supplies, housing, and because it's where nearly all transportation arrives in the city... Should I stakeout that area? Or Is this 'ground' alchemist in a different district?
It couldn't hut to try... Tobias slipped his cap back on, then pulled himself to his feet and set off to the alchemical center of the city.
He dropped himself on the foot of the grand building's steps, took off his cap and ran his had through the short brown mess on the top of his head, "What to do... What to do..."
Most alchemists heading south'd be in or around the trade district, for supplies, housing, and because it's where nearly all transportation arrives in the city... Should I stakeout that area? Or Is this 'ground' alchemist in a different district?
It couldn't hut to try... Tobias slipped his cap back on, then pulled himself to his feet and set off to the alchemical center of the city.
OOC Notes
"T-twenty Seven D, got it." Emil stuttered out. A trait of his more submissive personality, he probably could have taken the man's lashings all day. Emil had a sickeningly deep respect for those wiser than himself, and was obedient by nature. If Steed had told him to go step in front of the train, he might have just obliged. What others might have taken as a threat, he simply admired as the stern and strict behavior of a high profile alchemist. Albeit clearly not the alchemist he'd thought, Nate still had the same visible intelligence about him of his father- a chilling one at that.
Spinning around on his heels, Emil began a light jog to the ticket booth. The sudden move was spastic, but for some reason there was a hint of grace to the way he moved. Fast, perhaps a little tame-less, but with a purpose. This nature was inherent of all that he did. As he moved, he stopped just shy of the booth, not more then twenty feet from Nathaniel, and spun around to call out "I'm Jack, Jack Yahto!" He felt his name didn't have quite the same impact of Steed's, but he could sense it held some meaning to him. Turning back to the booth without registering his response, he waved his hand a bit at the female attendant "Southgate, please."
Spinning around on his heels, Emil began a light jog to the ticket booth. The sudden move was spastic, but for some reason there was a hint of grace to the way he moved. Fast, perhaps a little tame-less, but with a purpose. This nature was inherent of all that he did. As he moved, he stopped just shy of the booth, not more then twenty feet from Nathaniel, and spun around to call out "I'm Jack, Jack Yahto!" He felt his name didn't have quite the same impact of Steed's, but he could sense it held some meaning to him. Turning back to the booth without registering his response, he waved his hand a bit at the female attendant "Southgate, please."
Alchemist's Waltz: Out Of Character (OOC)
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Alchemist's Waltz
1 ... 15, 16, 17by Anno Domini on Sun Aug 15, 2010 6:40 am
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on Sun Mar 20, 2011 1:02 am
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Alchemist's Waltz
Most recent OOC posts in Alchemist's Waltz
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Mmm... sigh. That's not an easy choice to make. I really do quite enjoy this, and I would be quite sad to see it go.
On the other hand, I see where you're coming from. I guess we've basically been giving marathon CPR to something that cannot be saved, huh?
...Ultimately, Anno, the decision is yours. I'm happy to continue my silly putzing around in your lovely world for as long as you would stand for it, but I certainly understand the disillusionment thing, at least theoretically. If you're of a mind to end it, though, I'm not gonna get mad or anything. :P
So what I'm basically saying is, don't ever ask me to make choices. I suck at them. You do it. XD
On the other hand, I see where you're coming from. I guess we've basically been giving marathon CPR to something that cannot be saved, huh?
...Ultimately, Anno, the decision is yours. I'm happy to continue my silly putzing around in your lovely world for as long as you would stand for it, but I certainly understand the disillusionment thing, at least theoretically. If you're of a mind to end it, though, I'm not gonna get mad or anything. :P
So what I'm basically saying is, don't ever ask me to make choices. I suck at them. You do it. XD
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
You'd be completely right on that second part, Kiku. Beval would climb onto a moving train. The first part, though... More like disillusionment.
Alright guys, I know this sounds strange coming from your modestly stoic and handsome Gamemaster, but I think I've lost confidence in this roleplay's strength. I thought that three solid players were enough to pull the story forward, and that we had a sufficient amount of plot lubrication (totally a real thing), but I'd be thick to not notice that we're losing our steam. And I don't think it's just Pokemon to blame ^_^
This roleplay was clearly a badass idea. I mean, I came up with it. But I think the set pieces for it were too few and far apart for things to keep going, even accounting for the standard drop off of 50% of its players that most roleplays get. I also wasn't nearly as strict as I believe myself to be with character submissions, but whatevz. My point is that the side-quest we've set off on can only delay closing doors. You guys have stood by this with me and milked all the alchemy goodness you guys could, but this isn't the only roleplay of its kind.
That said, I'd like to just come out and ask. Do you guys want to continue with this pulsating carcass of a roleplay, mein Kind, or say goodnight to it. I'm trying to tell you it's not your responsibility to stick around it. If you think its time has come, then it has.
To ease you guys in considering this roleplay's final fate and accepting whatever is to come, I present you with this archaic noun, kindle, meaning a group of kittens. May your life be one great kindle.
Alright guys, I know this sounds strange coming from your modestly stoic and handsome Gamemaster, but I think I've lost confidence in this roleplay's strength. I thought that three solid players were enough to pull the story forward, and that we had a sufficient amount of plot lubrication (totally a real thing), but I'd be thick to not notice that we're losing our steam. And I don't think it's just Pokemon to blame ^_^
This roleplay was clearly a badass idea. I mean, I came up with it. But I think the set pieces for it were too few and far apart for things to keep going, even accounting for the standard drop off of 50% of its players that most roleplays get. I also wasn't nearly as strict as I believe myself to be with character submissions, but whatevz. My point is that the side-quest we've set off on can only delay closing doors. You guys have stood by this with me and milked all the alchemy goodness you guys could, but this isn't the only roleplay of its kind.
That said, I'd like to just come out and ask. Do you guys want to continue with this pulsating carcass of a roleplay, mein Kind, or say goodnight to it. I'm trying to tell you it's not your responsibility to stick around it. If you think its time has come, then it has.
To ease you guys in considering this roleplay's final fate and accepting whatever is to come, I present you with this archaic noun, kindle, meaning a group of kittens. May your life be one great kindle.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Yeah, the grammar thing.... I run into problems with spelling sometimes. I use a browser with a built-in spellcheck, and I can understand stuff like if it's the wrong word but correctly-spelled because they don't catch that, but sometimes it just gets egregious. I have been left with headaches from trying to decipher the spelling of otherwise good writers before, and it drives me crazy. I blame the public school system. Nobody checks for that kind of stuff anymore, not when Microsoft Word has it built in. Do kids even have weekly spelling lists anymore?
Haha, sorry, that was but a tangential moment in a much larger rant, which I am self-conscious enough to spare you. >.<
EDIT: So I'm guessing it's your turn for writer's block, Anno? I have to admit, I was fully expecting Beval to climb on top of a moving train. I dunno why, but that's what I thought he was gonna do. :P
Haha, sorry, that was but a tangential moment in a much larger rant, which I am self-conscious enough to spare you. >.<
EDIT: So I'm guessing it's your turn for writer's block, Anno? I have to admit, I was fully expecting Beval to climb on top of a moving train. I dunno why, but that's what I thought he was gonna do. :P
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
I agree, Kiku; original is always better. That's why I haven't made any role plays: I'm not creative, like you two.
And for a note on literacy: I HATE bad grammar. One of my biggest pet peeves in role playing is when you get a player who writes extremely long run on sentences, or has bad spelling, or something such along those lines. I'm not saying that I'm perfect, I just try REALLY hard to not make mistakes.
And I think you pretty much covered it in popular role play topics nowadays, although the 'teens gain superpowers' theme could perhaps fit in there as well.
And for a note on literacy: I HATE bad grammar. One of my biggest pet peeves in role playing is when you get a player who writes extremely long run on sentences, or has bad spelling, or something such along those lines. I'm not saying that I'm perfect, I just try REALLY hard to not make mistakes.
And I think you pretty much covered it in popular role play topics nowadays, although the 'teens gain superpowers' theme could perhaps fit in there as well.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Flatterer. Lol, thank you though. I honestly wasn't sure how that was going to go over. But then I thought to myself, "I've spent several hours creating this world and all this background information and I'd really hate to see it go to waste." Frankly, though, I think most of it comes down to who the players are. There are people who are always the last ones to stop posting, and I definitely personally sent PMs to try and get some people I know who are like that/might be interested in the genre to join.
Yeah... I've only seen a "based-on" roleplay done well like once or twice, and that I think is because the GM said right off the bat that nobody was playing anybody from canon ever, so it's really only in the same setting. And you're completely right about the post-apocalyptic thing. The levels of literacy for those are all the way across the board, but direction is just... lacking, usually. I guess the most popular genre after those is the random high or low fantasy, which can be good or bad depending on the way the GM handles the logistics of the world, and random slice of life, normal-people-in-modern-world stuff? Those also usually suffer from non-directed plot.
If you ever do create another one, you're probably best off trying to just make up something new. Original plots are great. So are original worlds.
Speaking of, I'm thinking of posting all the info for Revelation in the "existing worlds" OOC thread or whatever it's called, which means that other people can make things set in it. I doubt anyone would, but it would be kind of interesting to see how someone who is not me/you guys would interpret it. Then again... I'm kind of attached. Decisions, decisions... -_-
Yeah... I've only seen a "based-on" roleplay done well like once or twice, and that I think is because the GM said right off the bat that nobody was playing anybody from canon ever, so it's really only in the same setting. And you're completely right about the post-apocalyptic thing. The levels of literacy for those are all the way across the board, but direction is just... lacking, usually. I guess the most popular genre after those is the random high or low fantasy, which can be good or bad depending on the way the GM handles the logistics of the world, and random slice of life, normal-people-in-modern-world stuff? Those also usually suffer from non-directed plot.
If you ever do create another one, you're probably best off trying to just make up something new. Original plots are great. So are original worlds.
Speaking of, I'm thinking of posting all the info for Revelation in the "existing worlds" OOC thread or whatever it's called, which means that other people can make things set in it. I doubt anyone would, but it would be kind of interesting to see how someone who is not me/you guys would interpret it. Then again... I'm kind of attached. Decisions, decisions... -_-
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Hmm. Yes. The supernatural roleplays of that sort are almost exclusively romantic or barbaric, both of which I'm not fond of. I won't insult them- every game has its place, as well as its fans. I just wish that those fans would stick to the existing ones instead of blindly creating an endless amount of uninspired clones of the same setting and characters.
Post-Apocalyptic, too, seems uninspired more often than not. I love the genre in films and games (though it's beginning to peak at its over-exploitation), but the roleplays seem to have as little goal as they do story. The MacGuffins they (rarely) feature tend to have little hold over most characters anyways. It just ends up being a loose bandit free-for-all, which would be alright if the players that frequent them weren't (usually) negligent of basic etiquette towards godmodding and metagaming. ;_;
Stuff based on something that exists... eh. Few roleplays feature a vivid enough universe to bounce this off of. Usually it's just people playing as their favorite characters, or just a really elaborate fanfic for the GM. That can get old. I'm just upset that so many roleplays are afraid to innovate and try something drastic or effective. Kiku, your roleplay's emphasis on plot development and player communication is (quite honestly) unprecedented. Very few gamemasters are willing to stop and ask "So who's going to go where? Who will they meet? Oh, wouldn't it be great if she caught him? Let's all agree on how they'll achieve this." It's progressive without inhibiting everyone's creativity (like in character-slot roleplays). It's probably the best solution I've ever seen to the major challenge every roleplay faces- completion of the story.
Post-Apocalyptic, too, seems uninspired more often than not. I love the genre in films and games (though it's beginning to peak at its over-exploitation), but the roleplays seem to have as little goal as they do story. The MacGuffins they (rarely) feature tend to have little hold over most characters anyways. It just ends up being a loose bandit free-for-all, which would be alright if the players that frequent them weren't (usually) negligent of basic etiquette towards godmodding and metagaming. ;_;
Stuff based on something that exists... eh. Few roleplays feature a vivid enough universe to bounce this off of. Usually it's just people playing as their favorite characters, or just a really elaborate fanfic for the GM. That can get old. I'm just upset that so many roleplays are afraid to innovate and try something drastic or effective. Kiku, your roleplay's emphasis on plot development and player communication is (quite honestly) unprecedented. Very few gamemasters are willing to stop and ask "So who's going to go where? Who will they meet? Oh, wouldn't it be great if she caught him? Let's all agree on how they'll achieve this." It's progressive without inhibiting everyone's creativity (like in character-slot roleplays). It's probably the best solution I've ever seen to the major challenge every roleplay faces- completion of the story.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
That is indeed how you spell Braille. (^_^)
And I honestly do not know what the answer to your question is. I hate to say it, but I'm pretty sure the most popular genres right now involve werewolves and vampires (>.<), which is pretty much always done poorly. And then there's stuff based on something that already exists, and then maybe apocalypse-survival? I think I've seen a lot of those.
Any ideas, Lightning?
And I honestly do not know what the answer to your question is. I hate to say it, but I'm pretty sure the most popular genres right now involve werewolves and vampires (>.<), which is pretty much always done poorly. And then there's stuff based on something that already exists, and then maybe apocalypse-survival? I think I've seen a lot of those.
Any ideas, Lightning?
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Hmm... Two responses to that:
1. I too miss the chattiness of this OOC, it's always a good source of laughs and camaraderie.
2. HOLY SHIT THAT'S HOW YOU SPELL BRAILLE?
Erm... I mean, I knew that. Anyways, don't worry about the slump in posting Lightning. We all have our down time. New question: What's the cool and hip roleplaying genre lately? I have no intention of joining or starting a new one for a good long while, but I always like bouncing ideas around. What's "scene" now?
1. I too miss the chattiness of this OOC, it's always a good source of laughs and camaraderie.
2. HOLY SHIT THAT'S HOW YOU SPELL BRAILLE?
Erm... I mean, I knew that. Anyways, don't worry about the slump in posting Lightning. We all have our down time. New question: What's the cool and hip roleplaying genre lately? I have no intention of joining or starting a new one for a good long while, but I always like bouncing ideas around. What's "scene" now?
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Haha, that's okay; I'm just giving you a hard time. I mean, you should apologize! *tries to make mean face, and fails*
Eh.
Well... I guess cause blind people could still hear it. It'd just be like the radio?
Eh.
Well... I guess cause blind people could still hear it. It'd just be like the radio?
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Sorry, Kiku. I've just been strangely lethargic recently. I just got over some sort of flu-like virus, so it's not too surprising. I'll try to come up with a procrastinating post soon.
Anyway, here's a question to spark up the thread: why is there braille on my TV remote?
Anyway, here's a question to spark up the thread: why is there braille on my TV remote?
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Lightning! Stop doing homework and procrastinate with us! :P
Also, I miss the chattiness of this OOC thread. So, because I am once again overcaffeinated and in a strange mood, I am going to ask a random question. If I can think of one.
....
>.>
<.<
... Yeah, I've got nothing. This post is saved from complete irrelevance only by the fact that the first one and a half sentences of it actually address something semi-important. Sorry. (>.<)
Also, I miss the chattiness of this OOC thread. So, because I am once again overcaffeinated and in a strange mood, I am going to ask a random question. If I can think of one.
....
>.>
<.<
... Yeah, I've got nothing. This post is saved from complete irrelevance only by the fact that the first one and a half sentences of it actually address something semi-important. Sorry. (>.<)
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
BLEH! You'll probably see it there before here, Kiku, but I made a post in your roleplay. Sorry it wasn't a month or two sooner >.<
I wouldn't mind stopping there. Get in that free-time, character bonding and all that.
And Pride is pretty damn sweet. I just miss him being Fuhrer Bradly in the old anime.
I wouldn't mind stopping there. Get in that free-time, character bonding and all that.
And Pride is pretty damn sweet. I just miss him being Fuhrer Bradly in the old anime.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
I have to agree with you guys, creepy kids are awesome. It's why I love Pride so much :P
Just a heads up, I might take a while to post. I'm not entirely sure what I'm gonna do in my post yet.
Oh yeah, before I forget, are we going to do anything in Junction City, or are we going to just glaze it over?
Just a heads up, I might take a while to post. I'm not entirely sure what I'm gonna do in my post yet.
Oh yeah, before I forget, are we going to do anything in Junction City, or are we going to just glaze it over?
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
I understand, but you know that pretty much anything you come up with is going to be great, right?
Also, creepy children are fantastic. They're like one of my top-three basic character archetypes, after healer/doctor types and wise fools. (^_^) I'm actually trying to decide if Gabriel's actually a child, or an adult bioalchemist who screwed up an eternal youth formula lol.
Also, creepy children are fantastic. They're like one of my top-three basic character archetypes, after healer/doctor types and wise fools. (^_^) I'm actually trying to decide if Gabriel's actually a child, or an adult bioalchemist who screwed up an eternal youth formula lol.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
I know, and I really need to... I've been typing up paragraphs, trying to figure the intro just right... Deleting large portions, trying to fit the character right. I have the time for it, I really do, I've just been being too picky in my approach. I'm really sorry, I'll try to have him up soon. Once I get the introduction out of the way I should be smooth sailing with him.
Either way, Kiku, I'm interested to see where you go with the boy. There's a really special quality to creepy children that make them great in any story.
Either way, Kiku, I'm interested to see where you go with the boy. There's a really special quality to creepy children that make them great in any story.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Eh, well... I came up with something, anyway. Not too inventive, I suppose, but what do you do?
You know, Anno... you could post in Revelation now, if you wanted... :P
You know, Anno... you could post in Revelation now, if you wanted... :P
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Ha, "bear" with me :P The way I treat Beval and his lessthanfruitfulendeavors is 100% intentional. He's meant to be more emotionally wise than he is... well, wise. The fact that he's so bluntly dumb is a nice foil to how shy Stella's brilliance can be, when she's not scaring her whole country with experiments.
As for the post, you're welcomed to take as long as you'd like to conceive someone.
...I already have with your roleplay... >.<
As for the post, you're welcomed to take as long as you'd like to conceive someone.
...I already have with your roleplay... >.<
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
(>.<) I meant no such thing, but you do have a tendency to point out that Beval's experiments don't work all that often, and when they do, he doesn't get much respect for it lol. Actually, he and Stella could almost foil each other too, but she doesn't get a whole lot more respect than he does haha.
I shall endeavor to think of something interesting; bear with me if it takes another day or so, please.
I shall endeavor to think of something interesting; bear with me if it takes another day or so, please.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
Lol, as terrible as it sounds (and you meant for it to sound terrible) you're right. Nothing opposes a giant lumbering chimera who practices painfully obvious alchemy than a petite old man that works mysteriously to run a Guild with his well of knowledge ^_^ Besides, they're just funny when they're put side-by-side, and a good foil should be, right?
Whatever you decide on for the third character should be fine. In fact, if you want to make it be that a member of the Southern Guild just happens to be in the same cabin, that could make for interesting twist. Or if you have something else in mind I could always make the anti-Stella happen to be a member. ^_^
EDIT: Oh yeah, I did the research. Lead is a very poor conductor >.< but I can probably retcon it to have been copper or whathaveyou, even though that's probably a terribly choice for ammunition.
Whatever you decide on for the third character should be fine. In fact, if you want to make it be that a member of the Southern Guild just happens to be in the same cabin, that could make for interesting twist. Or if you have something else in mind I could always make the anti-Stella happen to be a member. ^_^
EDIT: Oh yeah, I did the research. Lead is a very poor conductor >.< but I can probably retcon it to have been copper or whathaveyou, even though that's probably a terribly choice for ammunition.
Re: [OOC] Alchemist's Waltz
No, I don't think lead holds a charge, but I'm no physicist, so ya might wanna Google that lol.
It's funny that you set her up as a foil for Stella, Anno, because as I was reading it, I was like "Stella is going to despise this woman."
I have no idea what to do with the third person though. Do you want a foil for Beval? I think Francois serves that role really nicely for Pierre, so... eh. Actually, in some ways you could say that Solomon is Beval's foil. He's renowned, constantly-successful, famous, and well-respected. (No offense to everyone's favorite chimera, of course.)
It's funny that you set her up as a foil for Stella, Anno, because as I was reading it, I was like "Stella is going to despise this woman."
I have no idea what to do with the third person though. Do you want a foil for Beval? I think Francois serves that role really nicely for Pierre, so... eh. Actually, in some ways you could say that Solomon is Beval's foil. He's renowned, constantly-successful, famous, and well-respected. (No offense to everyone's favorite chimera, of course.)
