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Part 41: World enough, and Time
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Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
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Eventually Aaron and Serena finish their conversation, and return to
the rest of their companions, and then all head back to the ruined fort
to gather belongings and prepare to move out.
At first they will be on foot, since, as Jonnee explains, although he
can lead them to any place that he has been before, he cannot improvise
details of the journey. Somebody else will need to provide
horses, since the Archons have neglected to do so...
They start walking. Down the hillside away from the river and
Chialla's people, across a narrow valley with a shallow brook at the
lowest point, burbling over and between mossy boulders, and up the
gentle incline beyond. Then a path which leads down, across the
face of a low cliff, and into a gully. Jonnee leads the whole
way, occasionally darting ahead to scout the road before them.
There is a place where water flows down a narrow defile and into the
gorge, but Jonnee turns aside here, backtracking the water course,
climbing higher, until eventually the group emerges onto a heathland,
covered with purple gorse and heather, where plump, black pheasants
spring into the air at their approach, whirring away on short wings,
blurred by movement.
The birds' speed is no match for that of the young man from Las
Angelos, and soon Jonnee and Devlin each carry a brace of them.
Supper.
A short while later, and a fold in the topography, off to their left, turns out to conceal a dirt road running almost parallel to their own course. It looks to be well travelled, and
it is. As the sun lowers in the west, perhaps an hour before it
sets, there is the sound of hooves behind them, and the creak of an
axle, and it isn't long before a cart, drawn by an ancient horse, draws
level with them.
A pheasant buys a ride for them in the cart, which smells of some sort
of animal, and so their journey goes faster for a while, although the
driver is somewhat surly and close-mouthed, clearly unused to polite
company. Eventually they reach a notch in the edge of the
plateau, through which the road descends, and reveals a village below,
where the first lights are already burning in anticipation of evening.
As the sun touches the horizon, their almost silent driver reins the
horse in where a side track turns off, and points ahead, down the
slope, towards the lights. "That there be Buckfast. Him'll
be only 'alf-mile or so, but Ah'm turnin' down this 'ere way now.
Ta fer the bird. Ah'll bid thee farewell."
He urges the horse onwards, without waiting for replies or goodbyes.
Buckfast, it turns out, is a clean and tidy, prosperous-seeming
village, with an equally clean, tidy, and prosperous-seeming inn.
The remaining pheasants, and a little coin, provided by Aaron, purchase
room and board for the night, and the attentions of the innkeeper,
Falke.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
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A final wave to Chialla's people, and Gil, and they're off. The
Quest continues, to Cyan, though things have changed. People are
gone, now, too many people. Their names ring in her head like a
litany. Tander. Lexy. Duncan. Leonardo.
Ares. Lazarus. Kaelyn. Kia. Andrej.
Kalika. Jack.
And more with them, now. Serena. Devlin.
How many more to fall? Known to her, that is - the Shadow Wars
have claimed many victims, including Jadus, Aaron's brother. That
thought brings a glance to the dragon riding upon her shoulder, asleep,
in his customary place. And yet there is still a barrier betwixt
he and Cyan - as yet, there has been no closure on the wound between
them.
But now is not the time, and so she continues with the travel, trying
to put aside thoughts of those lost, especially Jack, and thoughts of
Berd, instead allowing herself to open to the beauty surrounding
her. Eventually the shadows fade from her face, and she begins to
sing, quietly, in an ethereal tongue. The song goes on and on,
well into the day, showing no sign of ending, rarely repeating a
refrain. A beautiful song of sudden discovery, of secret joy, of
surprise then shocking anger, of despair and grief, and wild searching,
of friendship, heartache, and loss. Of darkness and death, and
light growing within shadows. Of peace, and healing. Of
sadness, parting, and then rejoicing at reuniting. Of resolve. Of
stealthy ways, and evil might. Of a conquering spirit, a freeing
of brilliance, and desperate flight.
It ends unfinished, of course, with the ride in the cart.
Unwilling to continue in such circumstances, Cyan instead withdrawls
her harp and tweaks the tuning for a time (unnecessary, it seems),
before playing a light, pleasant melody for hours on end, varying it
from time to time so as to keep from irritating those about her.
Bounding from the wood as the sun goes down, Cyan drops into a bow
before the teamster. "Well met, good sir, and our thanks.
Spirits blessing on you and your family!" Berd, regaining his
footing on her shoulder, hisses with annoyance, then curls up again.
The bard studies the village as she enters, growing more and more
pleased with it as each second passes. "I grew up near a village
much like this," she remarks to nobody in particular, amethyst eyes
catching the last rays of the sun. "Well...over a league from it,
but it made for pleasant visiting during the day." Spotting the
Inn, she hurries ahead to glance in, making certain there are no other
rhymers or bards. It's possible she could make some coin by
playing for their supper. However it seems that entertainment
exists already (not surprising in a prosperous-appearing inn), and Cyan
sags with disappointment before shrugging philosophically, the smile
returning to her features. "Well...we have things to discuss, and
rest to take. Playing to the wee hours would be a foolish
thing." Her face tells the story - she's used to such
'foolishness'.
After a bit of dickering over the price (and time spent with Cyan's
complimenting the inn), they manage to find food, lodgings, and (at
least in the case of the bard) a cold bath. Inexpensive...and
heat is no issue with Berd around. "My thanks, Master Falke,"
Cyan finishes, bowing and laughing. "Indeed, the bath in my room,
and cold is good. I am well acquainted with mountain pools and
streams." All true, though she has no intention of having the
water remain cold.
"Has there been news, of late? Oddities in the countryside?
Aught over which we should be concerned?" Truthfully, she doesn't
expect any, and hopes there isn't. They're on a mission, after
all. But Cyan can't help but to ask, and gives a quick,
apologetic shrug to the others.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
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Jonnee looks about the inn, his catlike eyes taking in the details of
the place. It looks nice enough, clean and comfortable, so a good
night's rest shouldn't be out of the question. He just hopes that
the food comes in large servings, his stomach is growling almost
uncontrollably after travelling for most of the day.
Hearing Cyan questioning the innkeeper, he adds one of his own, "And is there anywhere nearby where we can by mounts?"
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
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Falke considers for a moment as Cyan and Jonnee ask their questions, then slowly shakes his head at the bard, "Aye,
well, there's always stories, you follow? Lots of strange stuff
over at Carrfell. Nothing that can be proved, mind.
Two-headed lambs that are dead and eaten by ravens 'fore anybody can
get over there to take a look. Monsters that attack and leave no
survivors, but if there's no survivors, then who is it that comes up
with the descriptions, and why do the wounds look so much like a bear
attack? They're a strange lot over at Carrfell. As my old
pap used to say, 'the only thing queerer than folk, is Carrfell folk.'"
He chuckles, and adds, "As for horses, there's
a livestock market tomorrow at Bellinford, which is maybe fifteen miles
down the road from here. They generally has some horses to sell,
though I can't vouch for their quality, mind."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
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"Quaint," Dorian remarks detachedly, with the same dispassion he might have used commenting on the color of the curtains.
Despite the coziness of being indoors, he leaves the wide cowl of his
cloak up; perhaps a physical sign of the solitude he seeks after the
previous world's events.
He could only hope that whatever Jonnee had in store for them wouldn't
take too long. There was no more than the entire universe at stake,
despite the complexity of the decisions that face them. The man had, in
times past, been much of a follower, offering input only as needed. It
was often good input, too. However, for him to take the reins of the
group like this, just to show them something, was extraordinary. Given
that, Dorian guessed it was worth seeing. It didn't keep him from being
irritated, though.
Ever since meeting Mum, he'd felt himself slipping, losing control. He
didn't like it. He kept his cowl up to ward off any further
interpersonal intrusions from the lot of would-be heroes. The last
thing he needed was more chatter. Unfortunately, that also included
stories. He actually found himself yearning for one of the bard's
stories.
His eyes took on a distant quality as he recalled the evening with Mum,
the story that Cyan told so artfully, so full of passions and...
sincerity. And that, was the thing that bothered him; it had bothered
him for a long time. Amid his perception of the world, the cacophony of
his perceptions, there was a single jarring chord of sincerity that
jolted him whenever he encountered it.
He remembered it first so far away. In the face of his scathing
response to her suggestion of politeness, she offered nothing but
sincerity. He expected, calculated defensiveness or hurt, but he got
neither from her. Somehow, that simple, sincere, reaction had thrown
him off balance, and he'd been struggling to regain it ever since.
He hated that. Still, a story would be nice. Somehow, he found himself
yearning for such a thing. The melodious song throughout the afternoon
had bought him a strange peace and contentment that he'd rarely found
in his travels.
His eyes turned to the innkeeper. 'The only thing queerer than folk, is Carrfell folk'. His eyes narrowed slightly. He didn't like the attitude; nor did he
care for prejudice, much. People often had plenty of reasons to be
disliked; things like what town they hailed from shouldn't have
anything to do with it. It wasn't honorable, and despite his history of
conquest and cruelty, he still had a sense of honor. Some might call it
twisted, but he'd silenced most of them long ago.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
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Jonnee, still waiting for something to eat, and feeling tired, looks at Aaron, "So,
Aaron, what exactly have you been doing while we've reen reuniting a
legendary king with his people? Inquiring minds want to know."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
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"It does sound rather bizarre," Cyan agrees with the Innmaster, knowing very well how it sounds. The usual country gossip, including the talk about one's neighbours.
"As for the horses, beggars can't be choosers." She glances
around, grinning slightly at the sights she sees in the room, then
looks back to the Innmaster as Jonnee turns to question Aaron.
"So, goodman," she continues, "you have entertainment for
tonight. As it happens, I, too, am an entertainer - perhaps, to
give your own people a rest, I might play for my supper and that of my
companions, too, if you find my music sufficient. I'll not be
staying long, but I assure you it won't hurt your business."
Reaching back, she tugs the battered harp-case from the pack, and flips
back the top, letting the silver shine in the dim light.
That usually does it, for establishments everywhere. It has been
a long time, far, far too long since Cyan has had the chance to simply
play for a crowd. She used to, quite a bit. Back before,
when it was just her and Berd on the trail. Back before this
quest. Back before Jack, before the people lost on the way,
before the confusion and uncertainty set in.
Emerald eyes catch the firelight, kindling, and Cyan waits for the Innkeeper's judgement on the matter.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
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Falke smiles at his group of strange guests, "Oh,
don't get me wrong, I don't have anything against Carrfell folk.
Married a Carrfell lass, I did, but eleven miles is eleven miles, which
is a long way, and we do hear some pretty wild tales about the
place. They likely say the same about us, though." he shrugs and starts to turn away.
And then Cyan mentions music.
"Well, we do have musicians already, and I'm not sure they'd take kindly to losing an evening's wage, so - " and then his eyes fall on... "A harp!
And a good one, by the looks of it. I haven't heard a harp played
in this Common Room for... what is it, twelve years?"
"No!"
"Fifteen years, if it's a day. I used to play a little myself,
until the aching stiffness came to my fingers. I weren't the
best, mind, but I kept me entertained, and out of trouble. I'd be honoured to have you
entertain the guests here tonight, Miss. Harpers are a rare
breed, and I'll not turn down the chance to hear one work a little
magic."
"Old Rab and his fiddle will have to miss a night, but I'll still pay him some, so he won't miss out too much."
He steps aside as the food starts to arrive, then adds, "Enjoy your dinner. And you can start whenever you're ready, Miss. But after you've eaten of course."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
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At Jonnee's inquiry, Aaron shrugged.
"A little running away from the more offensive of our Archon enemies,
but mostly Metatron got me balanced as far as manipulating the orbs.
Basically I was taking the first steps towards delaying our enemies. I
don't think we'll ever be able to get every single orb, and I'm not
really sure how long I'll be able to keep altering the orbs before our
enemies discover it, but... well, that's pretty much what I've been
doing."
Aaron sighed.
"Yes. Learning and planning. Trying to figure out a solution to our
problem, a method that will allow us to progress towards our goals. Not
to mention practicing on those orbs."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
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"I would be more than happy to play, good sir, and I would do so before
dinner." Cyan grins. "Better to bring in your business; I
shall break my fast after - I require little enough for food, and a
loaf and ale will keep me going. I only hope that your fiddler
will not be offended. The fiddle - now there is a difficult
instrument." It's true - a fiddle is, in fact, far more difficult
to play than a harp, which is essentially a standing piano.
"I would be pleased to play with Old Rab, as well - if he would do a few songs with me, I would be most honored."
Grabbing a tankard of ale and a bun, Cyan wanders to where the
musician's seat awaits, setting the ale and food down before drawing
forth the harp and looking it over, shaking her head at some
half-imagined imperfection. The instrument gleams in the dimness,
all of silver and cunningly fashioned. Checking the tune, Cyan
sprinkles a brief rainfall of notes into the room, then nods.
Berd, for his part, ignores the food. An odd occurance, to be
certain. Instead, he balances upon the edge of a chair,
poised. A glance to Cyan, checking to see if she is still focused
upon her music, then the dragon turns glittering eyes to Aaron.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
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"I hunger," Dorian says flatly. "And is there a private room available? If not, I shall perhaps go for a walk and enjoy the country for a while."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
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Falke bows to Dorian, "Your
meal will be here in but a few moments, Sir. If you want, I can
show you to your room and, have it fetched up to you."
Old Rab looks to be at least two hundred years of age, his face
battered and burned by the weather, and creased by age. For all
that he's almost certainly mortal (there can be, after all, no absolute
certainty on this point) he appears to have lived considerably longer
than anybody else Cyan has ever met. Gil included.
One eye has the milk-white look of blindness, while the other shines as
blue as the noon-time sky on a midsummer day. He has a tendency
to mumble to himself, and is prone to laughter at the slightest
provocation, and his first words to Cyan are, "Eh?
So you're the harpist. I'm pleased ter meet yer, Miss. I'll
be takin' the chair, and ye can sit on me lap, if yer like.
Heheheheh!" followed by an outrageously exxagerated wink.
"Only pullin' yer leg, Miss. Falke is goin' ter fetch another chair."
When both are seated, and they start to play, it becomes apparent that
Rab has being playing the fiddle for vast majority of his life.
The tunes he knows are for the most part simple country ones, but he
adds extra flourishes and embellishments to them.
And he is a quick learner. Cyan has only to play part of a tune,
and he picks it up and continues with her, and is soon improvising his
own touches. Once, during a break for a sip of mead, he remarks, "Me
eyes ain't so good, but me ears're sharp as pins, an' I never got the
aches like ol' Falke did. If it cost me an eye ter be able ter
keep me music, I calls it a fair trade."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
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"Yes," Dorian nods to Falke. "That will do."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
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Serena was quietly enjoying the inn. It was a bit like many inns she
had stayed in throughout her travels. However, Serena felt particularly
comfortable in this particular inn.
Secretly Serena wished Dorian wasn't quite so abrupt verging upon rude
in her opinion but inwardly sighing she knew that would never change.
On the upside she was greatly looking forward to hearing Cyan play.
Having never heard her before but believing she was quite good Serena
anticipated that.
Turning to Jonee Serena flashd a brilliant smile as she said said,"Well, it is nice to be able to sit and actually relax for a bit. Don't you agree?" as Serena sipped her ale it was obvious she was enjoying it immensely.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
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Cyan is only too happy to play with Rab, and laughs aloud at his
'greeting'. "Oh, I'm afraid you'd be too much for me to handle,
Sir Rab," she replies. "I'll stick to the seat provided by our
host." Settling herself down, she checks the tune of the harp (it
is true, as always), then begins.
For the most part, the bard sticks to the folk pieces of the sort
common around here - it isn't her place to drive away any of the
clientelle. She does throw in the occasional classical melody,
and sings a number of ballads hailing from other worlds. The
music of her harp is pure and true, and her voice lends a brilliant
accompaniment to her instrument.
Rab, though, is outstanding with his use of the fiddle. Cyan
finds herself continuously pressed even to keep up with the man - at
his age, with his skill, he has far, far more experience than
she. Cyan is naturally talented, but it's obvious that Rab is as
well, and with her not even thirty...no, while the bard is
fantastically skilled for one her age, it is obvious as to who is the
better musician.
She doesn't mind, though, taking the time to learn from the man, picking up on some of his alterations to the songs, studying his musical intuition.
Once, while Rab takes a break, Cyan shifts into a longer piece, another
in that odd, musical tongue, this song more quiet than that she sang on
the journey. It conjures visions of quiet forests, soft light
through the trees, and perhaps a hint of autumn in the leaves,
presaging the winter to come. A cold winter it will be, but
perhaps the memory of summer, held in the music, would keep the wind
away?
Then, taking her own break for a drink, she listens to the man discuss
his music. "Where did you learn, Rab? And how did it cost
you your eye...if you do not mind me asking," she finishes, knowing
full well he wouldn't have mentioned it had he not wished her to
inquire.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
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"Oh, I agree Serena." replies Jonnee, between stuffing his mouth with food. "Though we do quite a bit of sitting, it doesn't usually involve, you know, actual chairs and that stuff."
"Normally it's a case of finding the softest rock to sit on, or a
well-padded patch of ground. Then hoping there's nothing already
on it that bites, stings, spindles, staples, or mutilates."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
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"The Gaffer taught me, when I were just a nipper." Rab replies, smiling at the memory, "Made me learn somethin' new every day, so he did."
"An' the music didn't cost me an eye, so much. What I was meanin'
was, if God had to decide 'tween takin' me eye an' takin' me fingers,
well I'm glad he decided on the eye, 'cause even a blind man can play
the fiddle, but without music, then what's the point in bein' alive an'
kickin'?"
He shakes his head, "I knows as how I couldn't do without it."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
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Serena laughed and took some food to eat hearself."You
are completely correct Jonee. I say we take advantage of it andenjoy
every moment. Cyan is beautiful to listen to. I had never heard her
play before. Have you?"
Serena then took another large slug of her ale as she set into politely
demolishing the food she had placed in front of her. Occasionally she
glanced sideways at jonnee but she doubted he would notice.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
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Devlin was quiet for the most part, concentrating on eating and
listening to Cyan entertain. Indeed he ate a lot more than someone of
his size might nomally eat.
When he seems to be just about finished he jumps into the conversation
between Jonnee and Serena, "I actually find being cooped up inside to
be somewhat stifling. I may go for a bit of a romp outside later."
The man turns his gaze on Serena, "If you'd like a Change..." The
emphasis on the word change makes it seem to mean more than it
otherwise might, "... Perhaps you'd like to join me."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
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Serena looked up at Devlin as he spoke and quickly realized he wanted
her for some reason other than a brisk walk. Turning to Jonee she
smiles and says,"Save my seat if you would. I'll be back in a bit."
Taking a last slug of the ale Serena stood and looking Devlin straight in the eye said,""I believe a brisk walk would be fine. Thank you for inviting me.". The last part was said with a tone that Devlin would probably pick up as being more than a mere thanks.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
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Aaron had been sitting, and his eyes settled on Berd as he rose from his place.
"To me then, Berd." he said, and extended an arm so the drake coud
alight upon it. Without a word, he left the Inn with the drake now
settled upon his shoulder.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
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And so Cyan continues to play, while Dorian retires to his chamber to
(presumably) enjoy his meal in solitude. Serena and Devlin make
plans to take a stroll together, while Aaron and Berd depart beore them.
This leaves a somewhat puzzled Jonnee alone with James, who has been
quiet for the majority of the meal. Under the table, Hunter huffs
quietly in his sleep, dreaming of something small, fast and tasty...
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
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Devlin did not expect Serena to except so quickly, be he gets up and heads for the door to the Inn.
Once outside he looks around adjusting his sight to the outside light
and looking around for Aaron and Berd. Then he looks off toward some
trees.
"I really do find it stifling to be inside too much." Devlin says, "I'm
sure you probably prefer it. I guess I'm just used to being out in the
air."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
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Serena smiled at Devlin and replied," Frankly Devlin I am happy either
way. I have spent many a night sleeping outside. I also like good inns."
Then turning to face Devlin and looking him straight in the eye Serena
said," Now what did you really want me to see?Or do?" a small smile
quirked at the edge of her mouth.
"Of course there is no rush if you would like to walk around a bit
first and enjoy the beautiful evening." Serena remarked sincerely as
she continued to gaze into Devlin's eyes.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
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Aaron is a shadowy form in the growing darkness, a fair ways
away. Above him a shape sits in an old tree, the only truly
visible part of it a pair of glittering eyes.
There is a heavy feeling of oppression as the two stare at each other,
obviously engaged in psychic communication, and for an instant, the
scent of ozone is thick in the air. Far above the clouds part,
slowly rolling away.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
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With deliberate steps, Dorian makes his way up the stairs to his room.
Tough his movements are slower and heavier then his normal brisk gait,
he does something no one has ever seen, or heard, him do. He hums;
badly, and out of tune. The melody is slow and tired, much like his
steps, a dirge-like and off-key tune.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
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"I had a thought," Devlin says with a smile, "that you might like to
see the world as I see it when I travel. Though I don't know if I can
give you all of the animals abilities. Pehaps though."
Devlin looks around at the lanscape, "But we would have to fond
somewhere out of site and you would have to permit it, and trust me."
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
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Serena grinned and replied," I would love to see what it is like for
you when you travel. I would love to know what it is like to be an
animal or have animal abilities."Serena's eyes fairly glowed with
excitement and something else as well.
"I take it we would have to link mind to mind and that is what you mean
by trusting you. I do trust you not to go prying about in the private
areas of my mind. However, if we are linked in this way I am sure you
will feel and sense some things from mr. And I from you. Is that
correct? Even if it is I would be honored to share the experience with
you." Serena said realizing some of what Devlin may pick up may be a
bit emberassing but Serena felt that the opportunity Devlin is
offering her would be worth it.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
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James silence can largely be put down to an appreciation of
music. While the others do their own thing, James is happy to
listen to Cyan play. The style of music that she prefers is not
one that he is familair with, but he can appreciate the talent that she
has.
So, as Cyan accompanies Rab and vice versa as the music warrants, James
watches and listens. There's something about her, he likes her
and he's pretty sure the others do too. Certainly, she seems to
be having an effect on Dorian.
James wonders briefly whether Dorian is fooling himself in trying to
cling to his old ways and gruffly retreating to his room. James
doubts it. Dorian doesn't seem the type to afford himself the
luxury of self-deception. More likely Dorian is simply finding it
hard to accept the changes he is experiencing. James can
empathise with that.
James wonders also the extent to which Cyan has been the glue to hold
together such a fractious group of individuals, both now and in the
past. But such thoughts are mere speculation and he dismisses
them quickly.
When Cyan and Rab take a break, James turns to Jonnee, "Isn't
there some way to travel faster, Jonnee? I'm curious to see this
thing you want to show us, but I'm not used to going the slow
way. It will take half the day to reach the horse-market,
couldn't I "find" some horses on the way?"
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
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Outside the inn, the village grows darker. Aaron and Berd have
found themselves a tree near a small fountain in the square, just a
short distance from the inn itself, while Serena and Devlin walk to the
outskirts, where a small patch of woodland butts up against the walls
of an ancient churchyard, affording those who visit the church
something in the way of shelter from the winds that must sometimes blow
across the otherwise open valley.
The air grows cooler around those outside the inn, and there are whisps of mist forming in the air.
Inside, while Cyan and Rab play, Jonnee explains some of his nature to
James. He explains how the power to walk the Shadows comes to him
from the tattoo across his arm and shoulder; how it isn't true Pattern,
but what he calls a "cheap knock-off" of it. One which allows him
to travel, but only to a place he has been before, and always by the
shortest route. It is impossible for him to divert in order to
find horses, but now that he knows this road leads to horses, then he can force the way to hold true, at least until he reaches them.
In his chamber, Dorian works.
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Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Taking another break, Cyan helps herself to a quick sip of the ale,
putting the heavy mug down with a satisfied sigh. It's quite
good, and right now she isn't really in the mood for brandy.
Dorian's back can be seen heading up the stairs, and she feels a pang
of sorrow that the man does not stay to be with them. Devlin and
Serena have left for their own purposes (and that gives her a smile to
fight the sadness), Aaron and Berd as well (and now her emerald eyes
narrow slightly, in concern and brief anger), and James and Jonnee sit,
discussing (no doubt) their travel. Those two. So different
on the outside, but sharing similar strength within.
Dorian alone, and the others paired off for various reasons. And her with her music.
"Your Gaffer," she says with a nod to the fiddle, "must be well proud
of you now, wherever his spirit resides. Your playing is amazing,
and your ear for the music twice that!"
Pausing, she considers her hand, studying the little finger. It
still bends slightly oddly, not quite set right. A flaw in the
healing.
A break.
Jack...where are you now? It's the first time she has
thought of him in days without that same, soul-sick feeling. Now
it's a dull ache inside, painful, resigned...but not razor-edged.
He isn't coming back. And if he does, he won't be the Jack she
knew. The breaks see to that. His own personality sees to
that.
Leaning forward, she hugs her harp tight, then nods, settling herself. Play. Play, because there is heart's healing in your music, even for yourself.
There has always been. Whenever she felt lonely, just her and
Berd, alone in a hut, there was music. Whenever she thought of
her parents, there was her music.
At the loss of the Heavy-Handed One and Cúthalion, at the shattering of the Land of Balar in the War of Wrath, music.
"I don't know how I would survive without music either, Rab. You have the right of it."
So now she picks up the thread of a song she wrote high upon a
mountain, watching the sea roar into flaming rifts in the earth as the
green lands crumbled and the Eldar fled. A short song, of lost
days and glory, of peace destroyed, of treachery and blight, and of the
coming of light from the West. Of a clash of arms, and a world's
ending...and a flight to a new beginning. Bittersweet, for it was
a flight from glory and beauty that would never be found again.
Save in echoes of memory and song.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin moves into the small patch of trees and the shadows looking
around to be sure that no one will see anything. "The last time someone
saw me change they started a werewolf hunt." He says to Serena, "Now I
try to be very careful."
The man reaches out with his mind, something new he has learned. Are you ready?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena smiled wryly at Devlin and replied," I understand how you feel.
I have been chased out of a few villages being the target of a
witchhunt after not being sneaky enough with my healing powers."
Serena then opens up her mind and replies,"" I am ready Devlin."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron entered the Inn again, pleased to see Cyan still where she was,
and noting Berd sailing in ahead of him. Aaron found a seat not too far
away from her and chose to leave her be for the moment, rather than
start a coversation.
Instead, he leaned back and closed his eyes, mulling over all that Berd
had said, and feeling that he'd finally made the right decision. He had
no reason not to make that decision, taking that responsiblity, simply
because as before, there wasn't anyone else who could do it.
This time, he was glad he'd decided, rather than being iffy about it.
Someone had to make the decisions around here; it was only a matter of
consensus and then the decisions would be made. That was good enough
for him.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
After her song, Cyan puts down her harp, begging a moment from Rab,
bowing to the returned Aaron, and heading for the stairs.
Frowning, she mounts them quickly, not wishing to take too much time,
but unwilling to let this go.
After a moment, she stands in front of Dorian's door. It's his -
if by nothing else than the cold edge of foreboding she feels standing
before it (illusionary, of course), the bard can tell. After a
long moment of screwing up her courage, she knocks.
"Dorian? I hope I do not disturb."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin begins to concentrate, this is a bit more dificult than the
natural changing he does, forcing another person's form to shift. It's
a good thing he just ate a large meal.
Just relax<i><blue>
Soon both of them begin to change.
<blue><i>We will not do much, it will take to get used to being something you are not, I think.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
In the small wood beyond the village, if any had been there to witness
the event, two wolves run, seemingly for the simple joy of running...
At the inn, as the evening winds down and Old Rab starts to get a
little the worse for drink (though he tends more to drowsiness than to
any more objectionable behaviour), Cyan makes her way to Dorian's
chamber to speak with him on a matter of some import...
Still in the main room, James and Jonnee discuss the road ahead, while Aaron almost seems to sleep, so deep in thought is he...
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
A knock on the door, and Dorian lifts his head to study the door. He
can feel her on the other side; but why was she here? A slow, gnawing
frown developed as he stood and crossed to the door. Pausing a moment,
he opened his senses to the possibility of danger, a trap. Nothing.
Dorian opens the door enough to peer out at Cyan. "Is there trouble?" Measuring the features of her face, he didn't think there was urgent
trouble. Perhaps there was something of concern about that she wanted
him to investigate, perhaps it was something else.
A slow knot formed in his stomach, apprehension. It caused
the frown to grow and expand. Somehow, he guessed there wasn't any
trouble. She'd come to speak to him about something, but he couldn't
fathom the topic. Oddly, in the deepest recesses of his mind, for a
fleeting moment, that thought made him feel somewhat like a child about
to be scolded for his uncharacteristic behaviour earlier. He felt
somehow caught.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Dorian," Cyan starts, hesitantly, staring back at Dorian's grim,
ascetic visage. "I wanted to ask...this is a difficult question,"
she mutters, amethyst eyes dropping down to check the tops of her boots.
No help there.
"I wished to inquire...why sequester yourself?" It tumbles out
quickly, as Cyan pushes herself to speak. "Why not come down, and
eat with the others, spend time with them beyond the dictates of the
quest?" She doesn't like prying, nor pushing her way into someone
else's space. But the hand should be extended. She wants
him to know.
It's senseless telling him how much respect he has earned from the
others, despite his appearance. It's equally foolish to prattle
on about how fine friendship could be, how much happier it might make
him...this man has a thousand years of experience in the Myriad Worlds
under his belt. His choices he has made for his own reasons, and
they are not hers to debate.
But still, she has to ask. To make the offer. He deserves it, deserves to know how much he has come to mean to them.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Why sequester yourself? Why not come down, and eat with the others, spend time with them beyond the dictates of the quest?
Why not? She made it sound like he went out of his way to isolate
himself. He could understand, a little, how she might feel that way. It
wasn't like that.
His gaze hardening, he says, "There is work to be done.
Sorcery is not without its price. The drakes of Samhain I conjured took
hours of preparation, and they were with us only minutes. That is why I
hesitated to call them forth; I had to weigh the cost against the need."
He doubts she'll understand, even with that explanation. His first
instinct had been to simply stop with the first sentence, a simple
statement, but he'd found himself stumbling forward trying to make her
understand. If the others had asked, he would have stopped there. They
wouldn't have asked, though. It was because she'd taken the time to
offer the invitation that he found himself grasping for an explanation.
It was there again, her sincerity, the gift she didn't know she had. How many others, he asked himself, would have bothered to confront him in this way?
"I cannot meditate with the distraction of the common room. I need a quiet place without interruption." He thought, for a fleeting of moment, that he could say they were
welcome to join him as he meditated; prove that he didn't isolate
himself for no need. It was a foolish idea. "Perhaps another time, when there is time."
To socialize, to sit there among the commoners, to converse and drink
and enjoy himself? It was alien. There may have been a time when he
could have done such a thing, long ago, before the rise to power, the
conquests. Now, to him, it would be like attending a complex ritual, of
which he was required to participate not knowing the rite. He would be
capable of no more than watching and observing, out of place,
disrupting. Perhaps Cyan was right; perhaps it was more deliberate than
just necessity. But right now, there was work to be done.
"I apologize. I must begin."
Apologize? Had Dorian of Samhain, Dorian of the Storm, just apologized for doing that which was necessary? He was weak, a fool.
Sincerity be damned.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena could feel the change begin to come over her and it was
decidedly the strangest feeling she had ever experienced. her muscles
seemed to shrink and contract and although it was not painful it was
odd.
"I am trying to relax, It ...seems to be working..." Serena mindsent to Devlin as she realized her vision had changed. Although, it was dark she was able to see him very clearly.
Taking a deep breathe she looked down to see her paws which were
covered in a reddish brown fur. Lokking directly into Devlin's eyes he
would see that they were still the same emerald green only they were
they eyes of a wolf. Serena smiled showing a wide mouth of wolfish
teeth.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan watches, her own amber eyes meeting Dorian's hardening, dark
gaze. He's closing off, and she senses it; it's not hard, after
all. But his explanation makes sense. Sorcery. Of course. I know little of it, only that it takes time and patience I do not have. Not quite true - Cyan has a great deal of patience for certain things. Just not for the ways of the mage.
But then Dorian continues, and in anyone else Cyan would have read that
brief flicker as hesitancy. And he offers a compromise, which
comes as another surprise. An offer to join them in the future,
when he has time. Of course. Expediency being what it is.
An apology follows, and Cyan ducks her head, embarassed. "No,
Dorian. The apology is mine - I have interrupted important work,
and in foolishness." She grins, rubbing the back of her
neck. "I hope you can forgive my presumption. And I hope
you believe me when I say I look forward to that time when we can all
sit down, together, only to sit. Not to plan strategy, or wolf
down a meal as best we can, but merely to...and I ramble."
Sighing, eyes widening in frustration with herself, the bard shakes her
head. Prattling on again.
"I know little of Sorcery but I shall remember this, so as not to
interrupt you in the future." Giving him a weak smile, Cyan
shrugs helplessly. "One hopes! A good night to you, Dorian."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
The wolf that Serena sees is the darkest, jet black and at times it
appears to disappear into the shadows around him. Around his neck is a
black metal colar with the same symbol that was on his gauntlet.
The animal tilts his head head Interesting
I've never actually tried to change another into a wolf before.
The sound of Devlins thoughts is that of one pleased with himself.
The black wolf moves closer, touching Serena, sniffing her. She notices
that her sense of smell is hightened along with her sight and hearing.
I tried to give you the same ability as my own, to melt into shadow. Suddenly Devlin does disappear, almost completely. Serena knows that
the only reason she can still see him at all is the fact that her eyes
are more sensative than they were moments ago. As you move try to imagine yourself becoming one with the shadows around you.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena is almost overwhelmed ins ome ways with the changes. Smells were
extremely accute. Her vision was also very good. That combined with the
increase in hearing takes Serena a few minutes to orient herself.
As Devlin speaks and then comes sniffing her she turns her head and
sniffs him as well. The scent that he carries triggers the draw she has
felt towards him since she met him. Trying to hide that from him would
probably prove difficult although Serena tries not want ing to emberass
herself if this is a one-sided attraction. "Interesting is an understatement. This is absolutely fantastic." Serena sends mentally to Devlin.
As she watches him blend into the shadows she then attempts to do the
same trick, but it fails. Luckily she managed to keep upright and not
fall on her nose."I
tried. I think it is too early. I can see you. However, I cannot
duplicate what you are doing. I am happy to be standing on all four
paws." The phrase paws makes serena laugh with the joy of the
whole thing but it comes out as a low growl, although with the mental
connection Devlin could hear her laugh in his head.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Rambling indeed, but.... Dorian nods slightly. Why did he
suddenly have trouble expressing what he wanted to say? Perhaps it was
too many things fighting to be spoken, and he didn't trust any of them
to do so-- not without thinking first. He felt he'd already said too
much, as it was. Better a fool hold his tongue than reveal himself a fool. He felt very much a fool, too.
"It was a kind gesture," he says. His jaw tightens as he tries
to think quickly about what he wants to say. Whatever it was, it was
bound to come out wrong. Of all the times Dorian had stood before
crowds and spoken with eloquence, why did he suddenly find speaking so
difficult.
Something occurred to him then, and he paused. The crease on his forehead deepened, his brows furrowing even further.
He had, he realized, done just as she said. He'd had his dinner brought
up to his room. If he was going to eat, why did he need to do it here?
Wouldn't it have taken just as much time to eat downstairs with them?
He couldn't work on his spells while he ate.
The door opens more, literally and figuratively, as he half-turns to look at the platter, barely touched, on the small desk.
She was right, as stunning as it was. He had sequestered himself, merely out of habit and need.
But... what to do about it? Admit she was right? Never. Go downstairs and socialize with them, all of them, strangers and commoners? He couldn't.
"No," he whispers, turning to face her. He swallows and his features soften. "I was... mistaken. There is important work to be done... yes, definitely... but I suppose there is no reason to isolate myself while I eat. I didn't...."
Having done exactly what he decided he wouldn't do, he releases a gruff, irritated sigh. "Very well. I will join you; but only for a short time."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan watches the man, concerned but showing none of it on her
face. She knows enough of Dorian to understand (or so she
assumes) that any evidence of worry will have the man shutting down completely - he seems disclined to appear weak in any way. Given how he grew up, and his life thus far, is that any surprise?
Better to let him work this out on his own.
Astonishingly, he wavers, obvious caught between staying and returning
downstairs with her. Blinking amethyst eyes, Cyan struggles to
hide surprise, and possibly succeeds. Then Dorian turns back and
confounds her further by reversing his earlier decision. He looks bemused, at first, then grows harder, a state she recognizes. Having made his decision, now, he makes certain to control it.
Hardly surprising, and not at all offensive - people did this all the
time. People are something Cyan understands, though this one
remains mostly out of her predictions.
Here, now, another might beg off. 'Oh, no, we don't want to trouble you.' Or somesuch foolishness. Cyan knows that for what it is - an
attempt to retake the control that Dorian has seized with his
gruffness, his begrudging agreement. An inconsiderate thing to do
- obviously the man is torn enough, and this is the only way he can
feel comfortable. Perhaps that will change, but it certainly will
not if they do the typical 'no *I* insist' dance.
Besides, with him having accepted her offer, to rescind it now would not only be inconsiderate of Dorian, but flat out rude.
"Well then!" she says brightly. "We will enjoy your presence for
as long as you can give it. I do understand," Cyan continues,
growing more serious, "that you have important tasks. But I am
pleased, very pleased, you have chosen to join us." Slipping past
him like an eel, she darts to the dresser, catching up his platter and
spinning it on the tip of a finger for a moment, to catch the eye and
forestall objections to her sudden presence in his space. The
role of a serving girl suddenly cloaks her, and she looks perfectly
natural entering to take the food, even with the spinning tray
trick. It is a subtle thing, all posture and motion. Acting
comes naturally to Cyan, trained in many roles. Acting, of course
- not falsification. Taking on a role is one thing - deceit is
something she has never mastered.
Then she's past him again, the tray held high over their heads so she
might fit out the door without losing the food. "Come, then,
Dorian - your food grows cold, exchanging position with the ale."
A mischevious grin touches her features as she bows him toward the
stairs.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin appears again from out of the shadows. Some thoughts he keeps to
himself, he does not want the woman knowing everything about him,
especially about the way he feels about her. He is a bit confused on
that issue.
"It is the way I move between worlds," he says in his thoughts, "I
litterally move through shadow. Perhaps that is why I stumble and
correct what I say around Cyan. To me it is natural to call worlds
shadows.
Devlin sniffs the ground and the air, and he picks up a scent. "Come, watch, try to be quiet." he thinks, "I must eat. Changing both of us has used a lot of energy. More than I'd have thought. There's rabbit this way."
The wolf trotts off, leading the way deeper into the woods, sniffing the ground as he goes.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena too is keeping her thoughts as much to herself as she can about
Devlin. Especially since he could be her brother...wouldn't that be a
mess.
"So, that is how tou move betwen worlds. We call them shadows as well where I am from."Serena explains back mentally.
Serena trots off a bit awkwardly trying to be as awuiet as possible and sends," I'll do my best to be quiet devlin." Serena is also trying to enjoy every moment of this experience. the
sghts, the smells , everything is so different and fascinating.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Quiet, silent, Aaron mulls. Inwardly, he stirs and though he is visibly
alone and undisturbed within the common room, he is far from totally alone.
"Stop focusing on your self.
Expand outwards and open your mind, your focus, to that which exists
around you. A time for change has come. Let us embrace it."
Aaron let out a slow, relaxing breath, straightening somewhat in his
chair before leaning it back as he and Arianne began exercises. These
exercises, unlike those they practiced with Ilsefranvir, were centered
around the mind and spirit. Aaron knew that he hadn't taken part in
such an exercise... for quite a long time.
"Let us be as we are. Releasing ourselves into
that which has formed us, and from us, has become formed. We are all
bound together in this force of creation, with new experiences being
birthed by every breath."
His mind expanded outwards and slowly, softly, so did his relative
talents. They came, his skills with Pattern and Orb and he studied
these, studied how they might embrace one another, and also how they
would work against one another. They were two entirely different
things, focused on entirely seperate forces... but still were somewhat
similar. Both revolved around control and order, though they were
directed towards different purposes.
"We move out and out. As we reach, we see that
which remains close to us easilly, even though we only barely see that
which does not, if at all. This lack should not dissuade you.
Persevere."
Though Aaron did not believe his mind to be too great, still he felt a
connection with each member of his group. He could almost sense those
who were nearer to him than others, and knew that if he reached, he
might just be able to touch them... with his mind, or mayhap the
Pattern. He knew though, that this was merely a journey of his inner
self, and the Pattern was not something wielded lightly or in
casuality. He decided against both.
"Rejoice, Lord of Order. Forget all ills that
plague your past. Embrace the future though its continuance remains
clouded. Though on one field you fight alone, on another you fight with
the company of friends and fellow warriors. Let there be peace within
yourself, as you understand your role in the way of things. Alitheia."
Aaron let out another, final breath before he slowly opened his eyes.
The common room, though quiet and still fire-lit, now seemed somehow
more... alive than it had been prior. He was satisfied.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
In the common room, Old Rab finally clambers to his feet, and heads for the door. Approximately...
As he goes, Falke rushes out from behind the counter and snatches the
fiddle out of the bleary-eyed old man's hands. He glances at
Aaron, and winks, as Rab peers at his hands for a few moments, then
turns in a slow circle, looking at the floor, before shrugging and
continuing on his way to the door.
Approximately.
The door closes behind him, and there is a loud crash, and some muffled cursing. Falke chuckles, "It never fails. That's why I always takes the fiddle off of him, 'fore he leaves, d'y'see?"
Staggering down the road, Rab sees two big dogs in the woods near the
old church, but when he looks again, they aren't there. This
brings a smile, since it's a familiar experience; things that aren't
there when you look again.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin moves slowly through the woods without making a sound as he
places each foot carefully. He notices that Serena is not as
successful, but then neither was he at first. "Do not worry too much, it takes some getting used to. I was extremely clumsy when I first started doing this."
Well, maybe not extremely clumsy, but he is trying to make her feel better.
Suddenly the black wolf stops. <blue>"Wait here."<blue>
he sends to Serena. Not waiting for a response Devlin moves forward and
all but dissappears once more as he does so.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Defeat; he'd grown used to it, in some ways. Not the defeat one
faces on the battlefields, but the ones like this. She wasn't
triumphant, not smug, but she'd won. She was a gracious winner. He
liked that.
Still, he regretted his decision-- though it'd been no decision at all,
really. A lapse in judgement, perhaps, but not a decision.
Turning to the stairs, he heads down to the common room.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jauntily slipping down the stairs after Dorian, Cyan is momentarily
confounded to see that Old Rab has taken missing. She glances to
the Innmaster, shrugging her shoulder, noting the fiddle. "Trip
to the jakes? Or has he done enough for tonight? Certainly
I could not learn any more from him, now - I am quite full up!"
Plunking Dorian's plate down on the table with a flourish, she grins at
Jonnee and James. "Well, look at the two of you, thick as
theives. Dorian has come to join us for supper, and perhaps Aaron
might, as well. I'll break bread with you, then go back to my
harping - after all, I promised Falke a good night of music, and am
loathe to disappoint."
She eyes her harp speculatively. "And there's the matter of what
I learned from Old Rab that needs to be locked down in my head," she
finishes, tapping her temple, amusement lighting her amber eyes.
Above, Berd peers down, then scrambles along the beam until he sits
above the table in question. Hunkering down, the drake continues
to concentrate, his focus elsewhere.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena knew she wasn't being as quiet or as stealthy as Devlin, but she
also knew he had all sorts of experience being a wolf and she had zero.
When he spoke of being extremely clumsy Serena had her doubts that he
had been as clumsy as she. Still it was nice he tried to make her feel
better.
As she was about to thank him for at least saying so he told her to
wait and then dissappeared. This was a bit unsettling as she was unsure
how her powers would work in this form and she was too awkward if
something were to try to attack her. So, she hunkered down and
kept her eyes moving looking for anythign more threatening than she and
waited for Devlin to return.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin is not gone long when there is the sound of a scuffle in the
trees where he went and then what sounds very close to a baby
screaming. Then silence.
Moments later Devlin reappears from the darkness, a large rabbit
dangles from his mouth. He places it on the ground between himself and
Serena, she can see the blood on his teeth. The red gets swept away by
his tung and he sends, "Do you want part of this?"
[OOC: For those that have never heard a rabbit
being atacked by a cat or something, they sound just like a baby
screaming when they are in distress. I always jump when my cat drags
one home and it is still alive, screaming as he drags it up the lawn
toward the house.]
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena didn't flinch at the sound of the rabbit as she knew what it
was. As Devlin came back with it Serena considered taking him up on the
offer of paert of it. It looked pretty good, which Serena found
interesting to say the least. However, she guessed he had expended alot
of energy shifting his form and hers as well.
"Maybe next time. It looks pretty good , but I guess you need the food more than I do." Serena said with a wolfish smile.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Hearing the familiar tones of Cyan's voice, Aaron arose from his chair by the door and raised a hand in greeting.
"I'll gladly join you. It seems to me that we've much to talk about."
He approached and found yet another seat, spinning this one around and settling into it somewhat backwards.
"Anyone have any plans that I don't know about?" He asked, only
somewhat jokingly. "I know I wasn't gone as long for the rest of you as
I think I was, but surely you came up with something while I was away, yes?"
"Honestly, if you were caught up with whatever you were
dealing with at the time of my reappearance, it would be lame of me to
hold it against you." Aaron sighed, shrugging. "We run into into such
interesting circumstances, I really can't see why I'd blame you for
putting our immediate plans on hiatus."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin probably misunderstands Serena's refusal, "It's okay, If you want I can go over there..." and the wolf points with his head, </i>"... most would not want to watch an animal eating."</i>
He picks up the dead rabbit and waits for a moment to see if he should stay or go.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jmaes smiles in greeting to Dorian, Cyan and Aaron as they approach the
table. He'd probably say something but he's busy eating.
Swallowing, he answers Aaron, "From our point
of view you were only gone a day. What with our other endeavours
we didn't have time for a strategy meeting. I guess we wait and
see what Jonnee has for us, then decide. We will need to start
planning a few steps ahead soon, but for now..." James shrugs, "we go one step at a time."
"I enjoyed listening to you play, Cyan. Thank you."
James turns to regard Dorian briefly. He looks like he's about to say something, but thinks better of it.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well, we ran into Gil just a few minutes after you left." Jonnee answers Aaron.
"We got involved with him. Turned out he's at least half an Amberite. Had a transfusion from Benny - sorry - Benedict - a very long time ago. So long that he doesn't remember it."
Jonnee helps himself to some more food, and talks around it as he eats, "He's
lived so long that he can't remember more than a tiny part of his
life. You saw his tattoos, right. All those hundreds of
blue rings, covering almost his whole hide, like chainmail. Every
ring is a war that he went through. Not a battle, no, an entire
frickin' war."
"But thanks to us, he's getting his memories back, and he met some people who remember him from old stories. We made ourselves some friends there,
Aaron. I think we'll need friends in the days that are coming."
A mouthful of ale, then, "And there's the place I'm taking you. We'll find friends there too. I already have friends there. I also think it'll help answer something
that's been bothering some of us. It might not be a full answer,
but it will be an answer, and I think it'll help focus us on some of
the other problems."
"Plus it'll give us a chance to spend a few days in a fast-time
world. We're getting frayed. We need a short break, and
we'll be able to take it without getting too much behind on
things. Regroup, reassess, revise."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Yes, we must wait to see whatever it is that Jonnee has in store
for us to see. For now, we should not talk about the missions. We
should, as I understand it, merely be together." He smiles grimly and begins to eat, doing so in a rather hurried fashion, out of habit.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena shook her head in the negative and replied,"It won't bother me. Go ahead and eat. I have seen much worse things than the natural way of a wolf eating a rabbit."
Serena said this for two reasons, one it really would not bother her.
Secondly she didn't feel extremely comfortable on her own and in a form
she still was learning to control. Serena still felt a bit overwhelmed
by smells, and sounds and sights which were much different and intense.
However, it wasn't unpleasant. It would just take some getting used to.
Serna then decided to lay down on the forest floor an watch as Devlin
ate. After a flase start she managed to get herself in the correct
position."I think I have alot to learn yet." Serena commented with a definite overtone of humor. She was laughing at herself and her own lack of skill.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin watches Serena lay down on the ground, a bit clumsy but she makes it. "It just takes practice and some getting used to." he thinks as he drops the rabbit again.
Placing his paws on the dead animal to hold it still the black wolf
then grips it with his front teeth an pulls. A chunk of the animal
pulls free from the rest and then he starts chewing with his sharp back
teeth.
"I've spent a lot of time in this form." he continues the conversation as he eats, "I can travel farther, faster in this form than I can as a human. The only problem is being alone most of the time."
The black wolf turns his head to look at the redish brown one for an
instant and then goes back to eating, the rabbit is almost gone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"My plans," Cyan states, setting down her mug, "involve a drink and a
meal. I fear I am remarkably short-sighted at the moment."
Studying the vegetable soup she requested, as well as the loaf of
bread, the bard nods happily, then gives James a quick, embarassed
smile. "Thank you, James. I am pleased you enjoyed it -
perhaps it is egotistical of me, but I never tire of hearing people say
that."
After a sip at the soup, Cyan dunks in a chunk of bread, nodding toward
Jonnee. "Jonnee and Dorian speak truth - I think we should
reserve much of our planning for when we actually know what it is we hold as resources. Any friends of Jonnee's, if they are at all strong and resourceful like himself-" How anyone could be exactly like Jonnee is beyond me! "-and now, I think, is a time to release, to gather our strength of
spirit. To take a brief moment, before re-entering the
storm." She glances to Jonnee, topaz eyes narrowed
thoughtfully. "You present us with hints, Jonnee, and I confess,
I am more than a little curious as to the answers."
The spoon touches the soup. "But Dorian has the right of it -
here and now, we should merely take a moment to let things go...should
that be possible." Her eyes flick around the table. "Out of
curiousity," Cyan continues, "is it possible that any of you play an
instrument? James, a horn? Jonnee, something with
strings? Dorian, for you I would suspect a pipe organ...no, in
seriousness, I am merely asking," she finishes, with a quiet laugh.
Berd, looking thoughtful, floats down to land on the back of Cyan's seat.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James looks up from his food again. "No.
I tried a few instruments over the years, but I didn't have much
patience for it. I broke a very expensive flute when I got
frustrated with it, back when I couldn't control my strength as well."
"I can sing a little."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"It is a far more difficult thing," Cyan replies, absently stirring her
vegetable soup, then dunking in a piece of her bread, "to sing than
play. Especially for men, who essentially have to learn
twice. I would know the songs you have, James, if you wish to
sing them during our journeys." A merry grin steals its way onto
her face, lighting amethyst eyes with her pleasure. "In fact, I
would know the songs of all of you - I am greedy, you see, and have it
within that I will hold all of the music of the Myriad Spheres within
my head before I die."
Her grin falters for a moment. "Ridiculous, of course, as well as
being greedy. Not enough that I cannot be satisfied with what I
know, or what I will know - I must know everything. And there are
always new songs...." The smile returns, full-force. "Ah,
well. What are dreams? Reach for the stars, as they say,
and mayhaps you will land upon the moon."
Berd, sitting on the back of her chair, cocks his head for a moment, then curls up in a remarkable balancing act.
"Perhaps," Cyan continues, pausing to taste her soup and nodding.
"Perhaps, now that you have learned some modicum of grace-" an ironic
glance "-you might just be capable of learning the ways of an
instrument."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I used to play the harmonica, a little. My
grandpappy gave me one when I was a kid, on my birthday. Must've
been about ten, I guess. He told me that I was old enough to be
trusted not to break it, lose it, or sell it." Jonnee says, with
a thoughtful smile. Without conscious volition, his hands curve
into shape, as if cupping the instrument between them. "I kept it for years, and he taught me a few tunes 'fore he died."
His voice grows wistful, as he continues, "I
can still feel the weight of it sometimes, and feel the texture of the
chrome and the wood. I left it behind when I first left Las
Angelos, figuring I'd be back in a day or two. You know the rest."
Jonnee shakes himself, and his face returns to a smile more typical of him, "This
place we're going to is special, Cyan, and it's a surprise. But
I'll tell you this much; it might give you an answer to something
that's been bothering you, and let you get your mind back on what we
have to do. Might even make it clearer just why we need to do what we'll have to do. I dunno. We'll see."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron nodded when Jonnee described Gil, remembering his tattoos and
being somewhat surprised at their awesome significance. He was almost
disappointed that they had left such an experienced combatant behind,
but he knew that such was the way of things.
Dorian's statement surprised him most of all, though. The man, once such a loner, actually desired the necessity of the group being together without distraction. The
truth was that he had the right of it. There were too many walls as it
was. They were small walls sure, but Aaron knew they existed
nonetheless.
Even then, it may have just been him who still held a few things back... but he didn't honestly believe that.
However, he didn't dwell on it. Cyan relaxed him quite a bit, and Aaron admired her for her talent in both music, warfare and simply being able to get along with... well, everyone.
"I don't have much of a singing voice, I'm afraid. There's a poet in
me, that much I know, but," Aaron sighed. "He doesn't get out much. My
brother, now, he had a voice. He could shake timbers with his melody, though you
would've been surprised to hear him sing, even on a good day. He was
like two different people."
Aaron leaned back, relaxed for the first time in a long time.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
It grows later, as the companions engage in relaxed conversation in the
inn, and Falke keeps them amply supplied with food and drink, as they
are required. The noise in the Common Room lulls as people make
for home, and finally there comes the sound of a church bell. "Aye-up. Midnight already? I don't know where the evening's gone to." Falke says, cocking his head to one side.
One...
Two...
Three...
Four...
The chimes ring out across the village, heard only faintly in the inn itself...
Five...
Six...
Seven...
Eight...
"It's the new priest, d'you see? He likes to ring midnight to tell people that another day is here, thanks be to Heaven."
Nine...
Ten...
Hunter crawls out from under the table, and stands glaring at the inn door, his hackles raised.
Eleven...
Twelve...
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
While known in some circles as a strong orator, Dorian is not known for
his skill at conversation. Of course, it isn't so much a lack of skill
as it is a lack of trying, or perhaps a lack of interest. He sits and
he eats, listening and occasionally nodding a quick response to the
others; or in the case of musical instruments and singing, a dismissive
shake of the head. Still, he is there. For him, that is enough.
He frowns at the intrusion of the church bell echoing across the town
and interrupting things. Not many places have bells ringing at
midnight, or even after dark. Each world was different, and there was
an ocean of differences among the inhabitants of most worlds, even.
Given the infinite nature of the universe, he supposed the number of
worlds that had church bells ringing at midnight would be about equal
to those that didn't. Why then, had he not noticed them before this? It
was a delightful mathematical issue best reserved for another time.
That is to say, to him it was mathematical. To others, it might be more
philosophical.
Having made paranoia a habit, Hunter's reaction is not lost on him. He
turns an inquisitive glance at Jonnee, who is most likely to interpret
the gesture-- not that one needed much interpretation. If it were any
other wolf, the response might have been to a rodent or small animal
sniffing around outside the door. But it wasn't any wolf, it was
hunter. While Dorian wasn't sure what all that meant, it meant
something.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
<backpost>
"All I could give you would be a few children's songs and a hymn or two. Probably not even complete versions at that," James explains to Cyan. "Most of the recent songs of my world require accompaniment and I have no way of re-creating the backing music."
And it would be truly remarkable if you convinced me to sing in public
</backpost>
James stands, alarmed by Hunter's reaction. He looks towards the door but doesn't immediately notice anything of concern.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin stops crunching on the bones of the rabbit and drops what's left of it. "There's Something wrong." he thinks out loud.
The wolf thinks quickly, but is not sure what to do until he actualy
see's what it is that is now watching them. It must be comeing from..."The graveyard, It must be from the graveyard. I don't like this Serena."
The black wolf turns to look in the direction of the churchyard and the
grave stones. The smell in the air causes his hair to stand on end, but
he does not make a sound. "Stay behind me. If something happens just run like hell. I'll find you."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Asthe last chime fades, Hunter shakes himself, walks to the door, and
sniffs along the lower edge. Then he returns to the table and
plonks himself down on the floor next to Jonnee, leaning against the
man's leg.
He seems more relaxed now, but he still has one eye on the door...
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James watches Hunter carefully and relaxes a little when Hunter appears satisfied.
"Well, it's getting late. I'll head for bed
soon but first I might go and make sure Devlin and Serena haven't got
themselves into trouble."
James walks to the door but stops before exiting the inn, his hand on the door. "On second thoughts, they might not appreciate the company. I guess I'll just turn in."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"That was odd, my friends." Dorian speaks with an absent, comptemplative gaze. "We
should all get some rest, tomorrow-- which is today-- may have some
unusual surprises in store for us-- or perhaps the same ones." With that, he smirks and rises from the table, giving a slight, perfunctory bow.
"Thank you for the company. Now, I have much work to do."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee watches Hunter's actions carefully. The wolf is not
stupid, and he isn't prone to reacting to nothing. For him to
behave like that, there must be something going on outside.
When Hunter settles again, Jonnee relaxes a little. Still he keeps a wary eye on the door, just in case.
Then the others start, one by one, announcing their intentions to turn in. "Think I'll hit the sack too." he says, stretching and yawning, though his eyes return to the door.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
One by one the companions retire for the night, leaving Cyan in the
Common Room with Falke, finishing the last of her drink. Hunter
crawls back under the table, and settles again, with a deep, satisfied
groan, and a grumble of contentment. One eye remains open for a
while, as he waits for things to quieten down, but gradually the wolf
drifts back to his dream of running and chasing. Occasionally his
claws scrape against the wooden floor as his legs twitch in sympathy
with the images in his mind...
Falke sits down near Cyan, keeping an eye on what he considers to be
probably the biggest dog he's ever seen, and of an unfamiliar breed too.
"Y'know, Miss. You play a harp like nobody
else I've ever heard. And I used to play a fair bit in my day,
and I heard some of the best too." He holds up his hands, the finger joints twisted and swollen, and his voice becomes quiet and distant, "Some losses are harder to take than others, but take them we must, if there's nothing else to be done."
"I even tried some of the Old Remedies, the ones my old Gran used to use, but nothing helped." a quiet chuckle, "She
wouldn't have approved of this priest, and his ringing the bell at
midnight. She believed the old stories, d'y'see? That the
ringing of a church bell kept the dead in their graves and pushed magic
out of the world."
"And without magic, the Old Remedies don't work."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
In a cross-legged position on his bed, Dorian did not sleep. There was
pressing business, no pun intended. His brow furrowed as his
investigation ended, with a clear conclusion. Fate, or perhaps the
nature of walking the Great Pattern of Amber, had a way of putting
trouble in their paths. Dorian had observed this and grown to expect
it. Sleep would have to wait, he decided as he stood.
From a nearby chair he retrieved his cloak and kept his mind locked on
his target, direction and distance, coordinates in his mind. As he
prepared, his mind reached out, a tendril seeking a familiar mind. Berd.
In the quiet of the night, he softly moved out of his room and down the
stairs to the common room. Cyan and Falke converse there. He glances at
Cyan, meets her eyes for only a moment, as he crosses to the front door.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron too, found sleep a distant thing, though he heard movement in the
hallway outside, if distantly. Having retired to his own small room, he
knelt before the single window with eyes closed and Ilsefranvir resting
flat and unsheathed before him.
The sword's silver-blue blade was solid, hiding the true capablities of
the ancient weapon until called upon by its master. Long gone was most
of its magic, the last of it remaining inside the soul of the woman who
was trapped 'neath its confines. The orb on San Anyn had taken most of
that, he had discovered, and all of it from the sword's armored twin, Herzkrieg.
All that remained of Aaron's past was Arianne and Ilsefranvir. All that
mattered to him now was the group of people spread about the Inn and
the innumerable, myriad worlds that surrounded him at every angle.
Looming above all of that was the singular desire that pulsed at the
base of his mind with every unused moment: the need to uncover the true
meaning of things.
"I See, I Will, I Am. Alithea." Aaron said with some
finality, the aged statement emerging from a long-buried memory
unhinged by the exercises he and Arianne had performed. His voiced
prayer broke the silence, but did not startle him. The bell that tolled
the midnight hour had surprised him somewhat more, but if it bid
enemies come near, Aaron would be sure that he and his comrades were
more than prepared.
Aaron felt that while not many of them would find much sleep this night, he would find none at all.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd, curled up on a comfortable chair near the fire, for all the world
like some strange cat, suddenly raises his head. His eyes glitter
and sparkle, and flames whirl in their depths...
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I was sleeping, Berd." James mental sending is blurry with the edges of sleep, quickly disappearing.
*Sigh* "It is zombies, the restless dead." Given the implications of his message, James tone is peculiarly
neutral. He sends images that have the vivid, pseudo-real
textures of dream, of the viewer digging with bare hands through soft,
damp soil that presses in on all sides. "Hope none of you are claustrophobic."
"Is everything alright out there, Dorian?...I guess I should get up." James stops sending, but maintains contact.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian's mental voice is smooth across Berd's mental link, sending to the others. Thank
you, old friend. I do not know, James. It may be nothing. But there is
something wrong with the structure of this world; there is a flaw. It's
not a break though; it's more like a potential break, like a worn piece
of fabric, a thin and threadbare portion of the weave of this world.
And... There is a sensation of pressure, as if something is trying to
push through, but is held back. I am moving to the source of the
problem, now, but I wanted everyone to be aware, just in case....
He pauses at the door, his hand on the latch. He looks over his
shoulder into the common room one more time to make sure all is well.
The image of a broken pattern comes to his mind, visible at a distance
through the link. Using it as a lens, he focuses on the disturbance
again, and tries to push what he sees through the link to the others.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee had woken, sweating, from his own dream, wth the dull ache still
pounding in his temples. He had been in a darkened house, and had
tried to go outside for some reason he couldn't remember, but which had
seemed so important at the time.
But every time he had stepped towards the door the bell had driven a
spike of pain into his mind, and forced him back. Eventually the
agony had become so great that he'd turned to look for somewhere to
sit, somewhere to rest for a few moments.
But there was no furniture in the house, just an open coffin on a stone
plinth, and a plate on the lid which, even in the darkened room, he
could see bore the initials J.K..
That had been when he woke up, to find his thoughts filled with a dream
of tunneling, digging, clawing his way through the wet earth.
Thanks for that, James. he sent through the link, his thoughts tinged with dark humour, I may never sleep again.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
<backpost>Cyan winces at the mention of Aaron's brother, but nods politely. I rather wish we had never met him...no, for what would that change about Berd?
"Any songs, James, have value. All songs have value," she amends,
shrugging. "I would take children's songs, ditties, marching
music, 'top sixty-three'...anything and everything."
Jonnee she studies for a long moment, listening to his words.
"Perhaps," she states, "you shall find your harmonica again, Jonnee
Kay. I can only hope. As to this place to which you lead
us, I place my trust in you. I feel...secure that you have good
reasons, good reasons applying to all of us, to bring us there."
Her voice takes on a wistful tone. "And I do have questions...I
doubt your land will answer all of them, but I can always hope to have some of them dealt with." A smile, then. "I will await your surprise."<backpost>
Sitting by the fire, Cyan (until now moodily staring into the depths of
her ale) blinks at Falke, struggling to focus on his words. It's
almost to bed with her, but that bell...
"My thanks, sir Falke," she states, flushing a touch. "The truth
is, I've heard many others who play better, but I hope someday to be
worth the gift that was given to me. Half of what you're hearing
comes from the instrument itself." She shrugs, knowing full well
she's skilled, but also that the harp holds its own 'magic' - the magic
of perfect quality, and tone.
"I'm sorry about your fingers, in truth...but you say the bell pushes
magic from the world?" Cyan perks up. This sounds
uncomfortably familiar. A church...only a bell, this time, and not a hand.
Abruptly the bard perks up slightly.
I hear you Dorian. My thanks for the
warning...and the explanation. You have certainly reacted quickly
to know so much already, though this is not surprising.
It is possible that Falke knows something more. Bide a moment, and I shall find out. Kirilinde is close at hand...well and good.
I do suggest we prepare, somewhat. *A
shudder* What vivid images you send, James. Like Jonnee, I
may have difficulty sleeping, after this.
"Tell me of this bell, Falke, if you would," she says quietly, leaning forward. On the hearth, Berd stirs, yawning.
My apologies, James. Think nothing of it, Dorian. I will delve the area myself, in an attempt to discern any possible issues with what you describe.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
The scent begins to fade. Whatever happened seems to be ending. Devlin
turns to look at Serena for a moment and then receives the message
through Berd.
We are already near the churchyard Dorian, Serena
and myself. Something happened when the churchbell rang. There was a
light, and it was like something opened. The place reaked of death. Now
it is fading. Should I meet you where you are going or remain hidden in
the woods?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian pulls the door open and slips out into the night, looking
around. He tries to appear as casual as possible, just stepping out for
some air.
"Hold your position for now, Devlin, but stay close to the church," he says with the tone of one used to giving orders to troops. Not that
he views Devlin or anyone else as such, but old habits die hard. "If
I am correct, whoever is responsible doesn't know we're aware, yet. I
think I'll become unseen while I investigate. This should only take a
to look into-- thank you all for your patience. The thoughts of death
and the other omens disturb me. This may be worse than I imagined."
Standing outside the door, he begins to speak lynchpins in a hushed tone....
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well, there isn't much to tell, really. The priest rings the church bell every night." Falke says, shrugging, "The new priest, well, I say new,
but he's been here a good fifteen years. Anyway, he rings the
bell at midnight. He says it's to thank Heaven for a new day, but
a lot of people says it's because he still believes in the Old Ways,
despite his saying that their just stories and nonsense, to boot.
That being the word of the Church too."
"It did used to be said that the dead would sometimes rise from their
graves at midnight. But the ringing of a bell on hallowed ground,
by which they meant a church bell, would force them to stay where they
were. It was also supposed to keep witches, trolls, giants, and
elves away too, because the sound hurts them."
Dorian walks, his senses spreading out, locating the place where the
world is weakest, and his steps carry him toward the church. As
he walks, he fades like morning mist in the rays of the summer sun.
Devlin and Serena wait in the woods, though all seems peaceful
now. From where they watch, they see an overly thin figure step
out of a small door at the side of the church. He turns to lock
the portal behind him, and then sets out, at a brisk pace, towards the
village proper.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron frowned, his form alone and silent, though his brow was furrowed
by the news recieved from Berd and Dorian. He added his own touch to
the link, the memory of the smells of autumn and the momentary image of
dying leaves following the connection.
"Dorian, I do not like the idea of you going out alone, though I far
from doubt your ablities. Be careful, but gain as much insight as
possible. You're the best one of us to do so, in this case."
His brow twitched, noting Devlin and Serena were also in the area.
"Devlin, Serena and yourself are in a good position to back up
Dorian in case he runs into trouble. The rest of us will remain here,
though surely not out of mindshot or for lack of want. I will
personally be prepared for any eventuality. Something is stirring here,
and I don't think it's friendly. Be careful, all of you."
Aaron opened his eye and released most of the link, though he held on
to Berd for a bit, in case any warning was necessarry. He'd rather not
bother Dorian with the contact any more than necessarry, preferring to
allow the magus to focus on the task at hand.
He sheathed Ilsefranvir, the blade turning black as his link with
Arianne returned to normal. Dressing swiftly, he strapped scabbard and
blade to his back prior to donning Herzkrieg, and attempted a calm walk
down the stairs to the common room.
Catching Cyan's eye, Aaron nodded his head in the direction of the
doorway, adding as he approached that "I'll be just outside. If you
need me, just call."
He left then, choosing to sit outside the Inn for the while his group
was out. Aaron wouldn't sleep, or even lower his defenses until
everyone was back together again.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Be careful Dorian, Cyan sends,
nervously. She doesn't like the others being in danger,
alone. It strikes a chord in her somewhere, that sings of
standing beside them, guarding their backs.
As Falke speaks, she relays his words to the others over the bridging.
Abruptly another voice cuts in - Berd does not waste time gathering his
conciousness, but rather jumps directly into his more 'focused'
manifestation.
I have just completed a discussion with the
being known as Metatron. While some of what we spoke is of no
import to the Quest, I will summarize the important point.
By destabilizing the broken patterns throughout the Myriad Worlds, in a line from one end of creation to the other -
Image: a shining, elliptical galaxy of lights,
stretched between two poles, with a series of cracks through its long
axis, forming a jagged connection
- as we have observed, it is possible that it may break the
rules. All of them. The Logrus and the Pattern themselves
may become corrupt. Unstable. The Broken God will begin to
draw upon them, directly.
Recall the World of the Archons. Recall how malleable it
was. How fluid. How well it suited them. How they
controlled it. While they travel between the Myriad Worlds, they
do not control them - not as the Lords of Order and Chaos may do.
But if they did this, all might very well become as their
world is. Terraforming, one might name it. Changing the
Myriad Worlds into their perfect habitat. One where they held the
reins of power. Where they controlled the rules. Where they ruled.
The fact that this would slay the vast majority of their 'subjects-to-be', leaving them alone, seems to have escaped them.
Cyan nearly chokes on her ale, staring at Falke for a long moment. All of this. All of the people. Ruined. Changed. Perhaps even destroyed.
Is it possible this is their ultimate goal?
Berd's reply is wintery, though the cold is not directed toward the Bard. We
have seen of what they are capable. Would they balk at
this? No. Is it possible? Yes. They do not act
as one. And yet this goal would be, I suspect, sufficiently
enticing to allow them to work together, as we have seen...for a time.
It is likely one of their goals. The most immediate, and leading to the others.
Shaken, the bard nods at Aaron's message, swallowing thickly. It
is one thing to understand the enemy is up to some deviltry with
enormous, sweeping consequences. It is another to have a possible
plan laid out before oneself, with knowledge, experience, of what the
outcome could be. Cyan considers the World of the Archons, and
her stomach sinks at the thought. "Yes...yes, of course,
Aaron. My thanks. Call upon me if anything is needed."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian reaches the church, and discovers nothing out of place.
The doors are locked securely, and there is no sign of anything
wrong. No sign that anything ever was wrong, other than the
feeling that the world is somehow... thinner here.
Then he hears it, or possibly senses it in some way that bypasses his
ears, and speaks directly into his mind. No more than a faint
echo of a soft whisper. A voice which speaks of imprisonment and
begs for release.
In the woods just beyond the churchyard wall, Devlin and Serena sense
Dorian's location through the link. And more, they can smell his presence.
At the inn, Aaron sits outside, waiting for any signal that he is
needed, while inside, Cyan discusses old tales with Falke.
Familiar tales, for the most part, of how the dead will sometimes walk
if not pacified.
After a few minutes, Jonnee and James come down from their rooms and
catch the tail of a particularly gruesome tale concerning a stolen
locket and the revenge of the ghost that came to reclaim it... A
true story, Falke asserts, an event which happened over at some place
called Darraby-by-Wold, when he was a lad of some twelve years.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Standing before the church, Dorian contemplates the area. Unseen, his
arms are folded across his chest and his head his held high, looking
upward towards the bell. He extends his psychic senses outward to
search the area. The priest may know more, he thinks to the others. For
there to be an abnormal effect, there must be an abnormal cause, a
catalyst you could say. I am suspecting either the priest or the bell.
I will spend a moment here, then...
He pauses, abruptly. His mind vanishes from the link as defenses slam
into place with the finality of a heavy iron portcullis being dropped
and shaking the earth around it.
Slowly, his mind reappears, slipping almost unnoticed back into the link. There
is a presence here, my friends. A voice, which speaks to me, begs to be
released. It claims the bell burns it-- no, it burns THEM, to be
precise-- and must be destroyed for them to be free. I shall do no such
thing, of course. I will investigate with the utmost caution.... It is
a very faint, soft voice.... Berd or Aaron, your expertise at how the
worlds work might be of more value here than mine...
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd's presence comes through the link again, weaker, older, and more alien, again.
I/Berd {hear/understand}, (Shademind/Icyspirit). I/Berd {come/join}....
The Drake slips his conciousness around where Dorian stands, cloaked
and shadowed on the spiritual plane, searching, hunting for anomalies,
spiritual cracks, threats, and voices whispering from the corners of
reality.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James emerges into the common room, still pulling his jacket on.
His sword-belt, however, is already securely fastened. Seeing
Cyan and Jonnee in the room already, he makes a joke of it. "Couldn't sleep either?" Falke must think we're an odd bunch "Fancy a game of cards, Jonnee?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd sends his impressions over the link then. Voices, countless
voices, cold and distant. Shadows of echoes of whispered
dreams... insubstantial and ghostly, yet undeniably there.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd studies the spirits, thoughtfully. I/Berd {believe/suspect} (spirits/ghost/lostones) {pose/engender} no (harm/threat) to most (quick/alive). (Spirits/ghost/lostones) similar/resemble other I/Berd {know/study/observe} in (distantpast/anotherlife).
The voice stabilizes, slightly, gaining strength and clarity. These
are typical lost spirits. They pine for long-gone loves,
cherished possessions, and work that remains unfinished. The bell
holds them in their graves. Holds them here, without any hope of
their ever treading the path to their rest.
Cyan grimaces, both at the stories (memorized, catalogued as best she
can within her bard's mind) and Berd's explanation. Her emerald
eyes dart to James on the stairs, nodding to the man. "It's true,
I cannot sleep...but this is commen enough, when I play." She
gestures around the table. "With four, we have sufficient for any
number of games."
Would it not be best, then, to release
them? They may bring fear to the living, but...what of the living
when they, eventually, perish? Will the bell not hold them here,
too?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
If what Berd says is true, then I feel we should do the right thing.
The question that remains in my mind is if this priest knows what he
does, or not. I believe I shall have a little talk with him and set
things straight. The bell is normal, so I must now ascertain if he is
normal."
Still unseen, Dorian turns from the church and heads back the direction the priest left. His senses extend, probing.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena could smell Dorian and the others near the church but was more
concerned witht the original smells. Frankly, Serena was unsure how
much good she would be in her current form. Walking softly next
to Devlin she sends a mind thought to both Devlin and to Berd.
<Purple>Devlin, if we are to help Dorian I must ask Berd a
question. Berd, do you know if my powers will still work in this
form?"</Purple/> Serena waits calmly for the answer while still
keeping all her sense alert.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd pauses to consider this, while part of him seems to slip away from the bridging, studying something else.
But his 'voice', though diminished, comes through clearly.
I/Berd {remain} unsure/perplexed by (possibilities/concepts) of (skinshift/spiritformwalking). (Gentlemind/cleanspirit) must {discover/experiment} for self....
Berd's full attention returns for an instant.
I fear, Serena, that I am not knowledgeable
enough in this area to assist. Perhaps - many of the Greater
Powers are functions of the spirit. Though the pronouncing of
Lynchpins may be difficult...it would be best if you experimented
before placing yourself in a dangerous situation.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Perhaps we should take the time now to return
you to your natural state. I think that exerimenting is not a good idea
when there is danger." Devlin thinks, "On
the other hand, I do not sense any danger from those beyond the door,
the choice is your. I think I can be of the most assistance as I am."
While devlin waits for an answer he also is thinking about the door. He
can almost smell its location in this world. He extends his senses to
touch the cracks in the opening.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena chuckled wryly sending it and her speaking mentally to both berd and Devlin.""Berd
has a point. I am not sure if I can prounounce the lynchpins in the
wolf form. It might work or it might not. To be honest it takes a great
deal of time and energy to hang the spells so I do not think
experimenting is a good idea. If it does work I have wasted a spell
that may be needed at a crucial moment.
Serena then looked devlin in the eye and said,""Turn me back...but I hope we can do this again sometime. It was a wonderful experinece and I thank you."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron gazed off into the night, his single eye passing across the
unfamiliar landscape as he sat in the dust and took in all that his
group was accomplishing.
Berd, did Metatron give you any idea as to how long we have? Time is
so malleable from world to world, that I'd understand if he didn't. A
guess would be better than nothing.
He cast his consciousness towards Dorian, though still tied to Berd and
now most of the remaining group, though some were less than others.
The dead should rest in their own way. The priest may be...
hesitant... to allow them that rest. Our awareness will follow you,
Dorian. he said, referring to both himself and the spirit of Arianne.
It is indeed a harsh thing, to remain unsatisfied in death. Arianne responded. The distant sadness that Aaron sensed from her, and
he knew was slightly telegraphed to everyone linked, concerned him
quite a bit. It was a small sadness, but it was there just the same.
I'll move as soon as anything untoward occurs.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee's thoughts reach the others then. Maybe
the bell doesn't trap them. What if it just prevents them coming
back this way? Like a valve that only lets water flow one
way. Not moving on to their final destination might be their
choice, but the bell stops them coming back.
If they're choosing not to move on, then interfering with the bell might let them return, and not all of them might be Kasper.
There is the impression of a mental shrug.
Do we want to be releasing an army of the dead on these people?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian moves away from the church, without suffering any harm from the
faint presences which seem to be everywhere here, while Berd studies
the ghosts and holds them at bay.
Beyond the churchyard, Serena slides back to her true shape, and
experiences a momentary unsteadiness as she stands on two legs
again. She leans against the large black wolf beside her until
she recovers her balance.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Disapproval comes clearly over the bridging - not directed at any of the group, but at the situation. I
sense they seek to leave this place, Jonnee Kay. Escape.
Whether that be to disturb the living or not, I suspect there is no
murder upon their minds.
You may be correct. I will attempt to discuss the matter with
several of them, but I suspect they are single-minded - not apt to
enjoy open conversation.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
I have found him. A mental smile passes through the mental link, for a moment. He
seems rather... normal. Not especially strong in mind. I believe he
does not even sense the spirits or the disturbance. He may be ringing
the bell out of some mere superstition. I believe this will be easy to
resolve... but don't drop your guard, just yet.
And Jonnee, from what was said earlier, I believe letting the spirits
walk abotu is merely the natural way of things in this world, and not a
harmful things. In fact, I doubt the living will even be aware of their
presence, save those strong in mind-- such as ourselves and those like
us.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The spirit can, it seems, converse. In fact, it seems eager to do
so. The voice that reaches Berd, and then flows across the link,
is like ice reformed as sound, "If
you want to help, make them give me back my money. The bastards
took it and won't give it back. Said I owed it to them, and... " a different voice interrupts, still as cold, "Don't
help him. Help me. My wife lied to the priest. She
told him I'm dead, and she married another man. Help me, I want
to teach them a lesson!"
"No! Me! You must go to the castle and warn them of the attack tomorrow." "I saw who murdered the priest, and they know I saw them. Help me hide from them!" "Get my money back!" "My children are in the house!" "... finish the harvest... " "... it was my turn... " "... I was firstborn... " "... I said he shouldn't... " "... wouldn't never work... " "... the water... " "... my farm... "
Attracted by Berd's presence, like moths to a candle flame, more and more of the ghosts are clamouring for attention.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin backs away mentally from his examination of the doorway, he
cannot pass through it. Physically, the wolf supporst the wait of
Serena until she is comfortable on her own two feet again.
"It seems these spirits are restless and do not
really wish to leave this world and move on. What happens if we release
them and they go to haunt the inocent. I know Dorian says only the
strong of mind will detect them, but still..." His thoughts trail off for a moment.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan winces at the flowthrough she receives from Berd, through their own bridging - the dragon keeps most of it from her, and nearly all of it from the
others. Her ruby eyes are sad as she considers the voices she
hears. So much time gone, and still people do not change. Good, bad, indifferent...sometimes I wonder... Shaking her head, the bard dispells that thought, turning back to Falke.
"Falke, what do you suppose would happen if the bell were destroyed?"
This is no different from many other
worlds. The restless dead, requiring some kind of
closure...closure some will never achieve.
The drake stares about himself with luminous eyes, then floats through
the air to an open window, flitting through the night to land upon a
dead tree branch.
Come to me. I will listen, though you are legion.
Berd keeps his mental defenses raised, so as not to be
overwhelmed. Struggling to remember pieces of his past, he
attempts to merge his arcane senses with the wraiths surrounding him,
allowing them to clearly see where they are, what they are, how much
time has passed since their deaths, how...meaningless it is for them to
remain here.
If necessary, with recalcitrent spirits, he merely 'mirrors' his defenses, allowing them a full view of their own spirit.
The drake gathers those who are shocked by this revelation (should any
exist), keeping them safe and ready within his own, manyfold spirit,
preparing them for a journey (should this be what they desire).
He offers warmth, shelter, and the dim glow of a nightlight in the dark
of their own, private hells. And he remembers when his light was
so much more...but perhaps a candle is all they require, now.
Better to light a single candle, than curse the darkness. He hopes they believe this, too.
Devlin, I will attempt to bring them peace, to
show them the reality, the futility of their desperation, and offer
them hope of an alternative. It is a task with which I was
familiar...long ago. Hopefully this will allow them to move on,
and not linger here.
Dorian, I will attempt to prepare them for the time where their prison is broken...should you decide to do so.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena finally gained her bearings and was standing alone. All of the
voices of the dead and still angry, upset or disturbed were wearing on
her mind. As a healer it struck a deep nerve listening to all of the
desperation, sadness and anger.
" I do not know if Dorian is correct or not.
However, I hope that Berd has success with his plan. I am unsure of how
to help them. My experience with these types of strong emotions are
solely with the living not the dead." Serena expressed to all
through the link that they still held. Anyone could tell that this was
disturbing to serena on a primal level.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James follows the unfolding investigation from the relative sanctuary of a table in the common room.
Not zombies, then, ghosts.
He takes a pack of cards from a pocket of his jacket. The case
carries a picture of a wolf. Sliding the cards out of the case he
begins to shuffle.
When Berd's speaks across the link, the cards spill from James'
hands. He covers quickly, scooping up the cards and starting
again.
You can do that? What were you Berd?! ...What are you?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Feeling the tension and weariness in Serena's thoughts, Berd dulls the voices escaping into the bridging from his own thoughts to nothing (though this will do little if Serena
is hearing them herself). He considers James' question with sad
bemusement.
Once, I was something far different from what I
am now, James of Amber. Now, I can only make the attempt, and
hope I do not fail, or make things worse. But they deserve my
best efforts, these poor spirits.
*irony* If there are any gods to whom you would pray, now might be a good time.
And please, forgive the obfuscation of my answer. I have only
recently...recalled...my former 'life', and it is difficult for me to
consider, much less discuss. In addition, I am still
seeking...validation, shall we say, of my discoveries and
memories. Many are incomplete, and subject to multiple
interpretations.
My apologies, Serena...I will keep their thoughts from the bridging in the future.
Cyan stares at James across the table, glancing once down at the cards. Wolves and wolves...many of them stand beside us, either in truth, or in our hearts.
She wonders about the significance. Reaching out, she assists
James with the cards. "Butterfingers," the bard teases, gently, a
small smile on her face. It does reach her sapphire eyes, but
mixes with concern, and she ensures her fingers touch James' while she
assists.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
But before...Sorry, Berd. James re-connects to the bridging and sends his thoughts To
say 'Now, I can only make the attempt', suggests that once success
would have been assured. No, it's okay. I am well
acquainted with the...problems?...of an unknown past. James tone carries acceptance and a gentle smile.
As does his face. Nevertheless, his presence withdraws from the bridging. Looking up at Cyan, he says, "I don't make any claims to being a card shark, but I don't usually fumble the shuffle, I'm just a little rusty."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
The dead are people, too, Devlin. They've simply moved on to another
state of being, but they are no less people than any of us. They have
rights, and among those rights is the right to be free of pain and
suffering. That bell causes pain and suffering to those people. Are
your doubts strong enough that we should allow pain and suffering to
continue? If these were living people, and the bell had fallen on them
physically, would you not rush to their aid-- even if they might
possibly go on to torment someone later in their life?
Yes, once in a while a living person perceives the dead and suffers
some mental trauma, but this is rarely any more or less than a living
person might cause them, too.
Dorian continue to walk briskly towards where the priest is.
In another vein, the priest doesn't even want to ring the bell. It
was a suggestion from the bishop above him in the hierarchy. As I said,
I think this shall be easy to resolve, here. But if this church pushes
such practices, it might be a larger problem. Remember, the trapped
dead cause a sort of pressure on the fabric of the world. I fear too
much of this and the world might "burst", as it were. And then, there
would be real suffering.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
An interesting conundrum, to be sure, Dorian.
Aaron sighed audibly, running a hand through his hair and unconsciously flexing his left hand as he did so.
Still, I... he paused there, and couldn't seem to continue for a long moment.
Friends, we all know that time is in short supply. Dorian, can you
gauge how long it would take for you to... 'adjust' this issue? We
cannot rush such things as this, and yet I feel our responsiblities
weighing upon us. Forgive my observation of the obvious.
And then he sighed again and momentarilly silenced himself, keeping his mind open only for answers.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
It will take but a few moments, Aaron. Dorian sent to the group. And
moments where we would have been asleep anyway, I don't see that
anything is lost. If you are tired, you may rest. I'm sure we'll wake
you if you're needed.
I asked Berd for the mindlink initially because I sensed a great
pressure on the fabric of the world and feared trouble, if not Archon
activity of some kind.
I apologize if you thought I meant we should handle this larger problem
ourselves. I do not operate that way. It will be taken care of by those
in this world.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The dead spirits gather around Berd, and there is a sort of psychic jostling as they seek to be the closest. "How will you help us? I want my money." "Bring my son back from the war!" "No! Help me." "He killed me! I want vengeance!" "Help me first! I am the most deserving, help me kill my husband! Help me get revenge!" "Help me!" "No! Me first!" "Me!"
The clamour grows more frantic around the drake.
Dorian reaches his destination. A cottage which looks as though
it might have been taken straight from some artist's romantic concept
of the country, complete with ivy spread across the walls, and roses
around the door. There is a single light burning within, faint,
likely a candle.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian approaches the cabin, perusing it with a distant longing. In
some ways, though a little more picturesque, it reminded him of Mum's
place. He could almost see the large wolfhound curled up at the front
door, protecting her more than she could imagine. It had been a long
time since he'd dreamed of settling down in such a place.
He stands before the door and considers a moment. The old Dorian would
resort to a show of power, beginning with simply walking in on the man.
No. The old Dorian would have simply destroyed the bell. That wasn't
true, either-- the old Dorian would have simply left well enough alone
and gotten some sleep.
However, if he wasn't the old Dorian, what was he? He'd come far enough
to understand he was a changed, and changing, man. He hadn't yet
decided on if he liked that, or if he should like it, or what the
result would be. Sometimes, he just loathed it.
Yes, except for that one miscalculation-- and who would expect an
invader from another world, leading an army from another world,
anyway-- except for that once, the old Dorian had done quite well for
himself. Why change.
He takes a deep breath and prepares to enter the cabin....
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Concern spikes through the bridging. Many
of them are not sane, possibly due to their long 'incarceration' upon
this plane, without being capable of fulfilling their needs, or
attempting to find peace. Trapped, not only in this place, but in
their madness.
The drake considers them sadly, holding off their efforts with his own psychic defenses. There
are a few things I might do to...end this problem, but I am loathe to
do so. Destroying them...is not an option. I would have
them continue onward to their reward if I could, but I no longer know
if that is possible.
His thoughts turn outward, to the spirits, and multiply into a chorus.
ENOUGH. BE STILL. WE LAY OUR WILL
UPON THEE. CLEAVE THY TONGUES, AND HOLD FAST. TIMELESS THOU
ART, AND TIMELESS THOU SHALL BE 'TIL WE SPEAK OTHERWISE.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian approaches the door and lays his fingers on the handle, which
turns easily. Unlocked. It seems that in these parts,
people trust their neighbours...
As the door swings open, a voice calls from inside, "Who's there? I heard you on the path, please... come in."
Berd freezes the minds and... bodies, for want of a better term, of the
ghosts, and a blessed silence falls over the link, allowing the drake
more time to think, and to study them.
At the churchyard, both Devlin and Serena sense the easing of pressure,
and the sudden psychic silence which descends. Somewhere nearby
an owl hoots...
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian enters with the hood of his cloak raised, which was another
vestige of his former self-- the one he was clinging to for the moment.
Something struck him, though. The mans generostiy, trust, was somehow
disarming. No doubt he thought it was a villager come to talk over the
usual troubles. Such simplicity and simple faith was to be envied, and
maybe also mocked. Dorian often had trouble deciding between the two
responses.
"I am a stranger," he began, slowly. "An emissary. You may call me Dorian."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd's mental force radiates disapproval. Dorian...I
have just discovered an uncomfortable truth regarding these
beings. These spirits chose to remain. They were not forced
to do so, or tricked. The bell prevents them from haunting the
living, but the spirits themselves still choose to remain here.
The way to their ultimate release is open to them. It always has been.
Some, no doubt, are insane by this point. But the question
remains - what to do? These creatures were given the choice
between their final rest, and haunting the living. Many of them
are greedy, vindictive...they wish revenge, or to inflict misery.
What to do, is the question...I will attempt to determine the path to their terminus - the endpoint of a journey for a shade that wishes to pass on.
*wry amusement* It may not be possible.
Cyan, at the table, sucks in her breath, then sigh, glancing first at
James, then to Jonnee and Aaron. "Are there any games you would
like to play, Jonnee? I suspect you are my better at cards."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"An emmisary?" the priest steps out of the room where the candle burns, to meet Dorian. "From the bishop, at Lanchester? It must be important to come here this late?"
"Oh, forgive me... please have a seat. The kettle has boiled a few minutes ago if you'd like some tea?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Poker, I can play poker." Jonnee replies to Cyan's question regarding the cards, "But I'm not too good at it. Tend to be easy to read."
"Solitaire, and things like that, I'm better at. Good ways to pass time when you're alone somewhere."
I knew those ghosts would be trouble. The living dead don't
usually just want lemonade and cookies. Devlin, Serena, is there
any way you can get into the church for a look around, while Dorian
keeps the priest busy?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
At the counter in the inn, Falke is busy, making a very obvious show of cleaning glasses and mugs and putting them away...
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James takes note of Falke's emphatic cleaning. He stands, "I'm
sorry, Falke. We're keeping you up aren't we? See, some of
our friends are still wandering outside and we'll probably stay up
until they return. We'll just be playing cards, but if you're
worried about what we might do once you leave, well," James pulls a pouch from one of his pockets. It clinks heavily, "this should serve as an adequate bond. We'll put out the lamps when we're done."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well, Sir, it is getting late, and I'm an early riser... " replies the innkeeper, with a sleepy, somewhat sheepish smile, "So
if you're sure you'll need nothing else, then I think I'll take you up
on that suggestion that I go to bed. But you can put your money
away until you spend some of it."
He takes one last look around the room, minutely adjusts the position
of a tankard on a shelf behind the counter, then heads for the stairs.
"Good night, all."
It seems that Falke's room is directly over the Common Room, since
shortly after he makes his way upstairs, the boards start creaking
above the companions' heads, and continue to do so for several minutes
before falling silent once more.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena sent back throught the link to Berd,"I thank you for dulling the effects, however I can still hear them, myself. Thank you for trying.
As she listened to Berd discussing the fact that the entities do not
wish to go anywhere and the wind swept up she sent along the link,"If
they do not wish to go anywhere and the people are bnot in danger
perhaps we should leave them be. On the other hand, I am not truly
convinced that these spirits do NOT present a danger. I truly wish
there is something I can contribute but I am having teouble thinking of
a way. I have never tried mentally healing a spirit and I am not sure
how I would go about it. I will think on it.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian looks around the room, gleaning clues about the man from what he
sees. His mind is working, trying to decide on how this meeting will
go. The bishop at lanchester was one possibility. He could simply lie
and say that bishop had changed his mind, stop ringing that bell. It
wouldn't hold up long, though. The vestiges of the old Dorian that had
gurgled to the surface settled down.
"The bishop did not send me," he explained as he took a seat. "While
I consider myself an emissary, I have come of my own concern. The
ringing of the bell at midnight causes much concern among the
townsfolk, I think more than you are aware of, I should add. Tea will
be fine, thank you."
Berd, perhaps you could lead them to another world, since they will
not leave of their own. They flock to you like a chicks to a mother
hen. Perhaps you could find a world where they won't harass anyone, and
can find the peace they deserve. Still, this is the natural order of
this world, is it not? Dare we go about changing the constants of such
worlds simply because we aren't comfortable with them? Are we gods, to
go intervening in the ways of men at our whim?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena, or Berd, could you wipe their minds,
maybe selectively, so that they forget why they're hanging about.
Then they might decide to leave by themselves.
Glancing at Cyan, Jonnee gives her an apologetic smile, "Sorry, I know you don't like the idea of messing with peoples' heads, but that might be the best solution here."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
"There is 'messing with people's heads', Jonnee, and then there is
this." A glum frown crosses Cyan's features for an instant.
"Is it wrong to attempt to cure someone of their insanity? I
think it might be our only option. But perhaps...perhaps Berd can
attempt to reason with them, first?"
One at a time, perhaps. But we have not
the time for such things - there are far too many. I would be
here for years, attempting to convince them to move on. Disgruntled, Berd studies the spirits for a long moment.
Then his glittering eyes narrow, in sympathy with his 'spiritual'
vision, which focuses on one of the spirits, separating it from the
others for study.
Tethers that hold you here, yes. But
where are the tethers that might draw you away? Let me see.
Dorian, I will not...yet...risk drawing them to another world - their
spirits are from here. On another world, they might upset the
natural balance of things in terrible ways.
Cyan grimaces. "I fear that there will be no easy way to deal
with this. Many worlds have hauntings, and they survive.
But now, with years upon years of...wraiths accumulated, unleashing
them simultaneously might be shattering for the people of this land."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron really had nothing to say about their predicament. Berd and
Dorian seemed to be doing well as they thought it out, but Aaron
couldn't find anything to interject, so he simply listened to his
comrades and took mental notes.
Outside the Inn, he sat and gazed at the night sky, considering their options.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Thanks, Falke." James resumes his seat.
Addressing Jonnee, "That's handy, that purse
would have been most of my stake for poker gone. Speaking of
which, what sort of poker do you play? I know the basics, but
there's enough variants to make my head spin."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The priest busies himself with tea for Dorian, talking over his shoulder as he does so, "Aye,
I know it troubles them, and I'd like to stop, because winter's not a
time to be walking to the church at midnight just to ring the
bell. Last year I had to stay there for two days and nights, with
no food, nor anything to drink, because of a blizzard that got worse
while I was there."
"Thought I'd wait it out, but it didn't stop. I had to wait until
somebody came close enough to hear me shouting, and came to dig me out."
He serves Dorian's tea in a delicate cup, paper-thin porcelain, patterned with birds.
"I'd like to stop, but I have my orders to remind them that the Old
Way no longer holds in this place. The bishop wouldn't stand for
me stopping."
Berd, meanwhile, observed through the link by the others, continues his study of the frozen ghosts...
Even held in stasis by the force of the tiny drake's mind, a few of the
more powerful ones are still able to whisper pleas and threats.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin shakes his head, it is an odd jesture to see a wolf do. "I
don't see what I can do here, I will wait or go with Serena.... But if
these spirits remain here of there own will instead of taking the path
that is open to them... Perhaps I'm wrong, but if there is any chance
that these spirits can bring harm to the living then they should remain
where they are. It is there choice to stay or go. They cause their own
greif" There is a slight pause in his thoughts. He is not
used to this group, perhaps that is it, but if they continue to stop
and help everyone they come across... </i>"This
may sound cruel, but if you continue to help every creature with their
own problems how can you hope to accomplish the task that you have set
for yourselves? You can't eliminate the problems of every
world."</i>
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron opened his single eye at Devlin's comment, and it narrowed, his
gaze piercing the darkness in the direction where the man and Serena
awaited.
We can hurry or not, Devlin. Our enemies are already so far ahead of
us, that the most we can do now is try to cut them off before they
complete their objectives. If we lay low on the radar for a small
while, perhaps they'll ignore us.
We'll strike when we can. As for now, for this place, we will do
what we can. Dorian and Berd are wise, and they know that if there's
anything to be done for this place, it will be done. If you're in such
a hurry, you can take off for a while. Surely you can find us again, as
our mixed group seems to glow in the Myriad like a flare 'gainst the
midnight sky.
Ask yourself: What if this was your home that was being silently besieged? What if yonder horrors lurked just 'neath your perceptive vision, waiting to strike when you least expected it?
Aaron sighed, lowering his head to have it rest against his knee. He
should've taken Dorian's advice and gone to bed, but he wasn't about to
leave his comrades out there alone while he slept comfortably. When
they returned, then he would take what time he had to rest.
Whatever the case, we're here now, and I say that we'll do what we
can, if we can. It'd be a waste to let our efforts go unnoticed, even
once or twice. One small victory is better than none. Do what you will,
Devlin. You can stay with us and wait, or go your own way. It's the
same with any one of us.
And with that, he was silent, though his mind was not. What were they going to do next? Where would they go? Jonnee had an idea, it
seemed, and Aaron was almost impatient to be off... but he felt that
there was a reason for everything, and that they hadn't stopped in this
word by mere chance. Perhaps the fact that the group had met Metatron
through sheer chance is what kept him here... hunting for any clue, any
reaction that the Worlds were getting from the efforts of their enemies.
I wonder, friends... if this occurence is but a side-effect of the
ministrations of our great foes? There are many worlds and many ways,
but still I can't help but wonder.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Forgive my ignorance, I assumed that we were in a hurry." Devlin returns, there is no defiance in this, just a statment. "I only barely understand what it is we are doing. Perhaps I was alone too long.
And I couldn't tell you what I would do if this was my home..." there is a bit of saddness in this thought that Devlin cannot completely hide"... I do not have one."
With that, Devlin withdraws himself from the link with the others
through Berd. With the conection broken he no longer hears the spirits
or the others thoughts. He moves closer to Serena and presses his fur
agains the woman's leg.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin, I believe, is correct, Berd echoes the through bridging in agreement with the man. The
suffering of these ghosts is of their own making...the path to their
peace is straight and clear, yet they choose to remain here, either to
watch over their loved ones or, in most cases, to torment those whom
they blame for their deaths. Many have been dead for centuries,
and their killers...or those they consider to carry the 'blame'...are
dead and gone as well. They seek revenge upon humanity as a whole.
I feel pity for them, but nothing more. They carry the seeds of
their own destruction - the bell does nothing save prevent them from
haunting the living.
Berd returns his attention to the wraiths, as Cyan, within, frowns thoughtfully.
Spirits of love, desire, and care too great to
leave your loved ones behind - heed my words. In time, those you
desire to safeguard, to watch, will come to you, for death comes to all
things. Hold to patience...whether here, or in your final rest,
and they will come.
For those of you who wish suffering to match that you perceive was
levelled upon you in life, I suspect you have found it.
Regrettably, it is still your own. Remain here, trapped in your
own hatred and madness forever, should you so desire. I will
waste no more time on such beings when an infinite number of creatures
more deserving of happiness are at stake.
With that, Berd releases the spirits back to the the mercy of the
Bell. His spirit flows across those for whom he still holds
respect, touching them for an instant with care and compassion, before
fading. Hold to hope...forever is a long, long time, and you will wait but a fraction more before you rejoin those for whom you care.
Cyan shakes her head. "Madness," she whispers, jade eyes sad. "Madness...and all too human, I fear."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
At Berd's command, the ghosts are released and depart his
presence. The angrier ones, the hostile and malicious ones, often
leave with hissed curses and screamed insults, but the others, the
merely lonely or sad, simply fade away silently.
Until one remains. Though it is not visible, even to Berd's
vision, as anything more than a pale silhouette, when it speaks, its
voice is feminine, "Thank you, sir, whoever you are. I will see my children again, truly?"
At the drake's reassurance that this is so, there is a sigh, "Well,
if they will come anyway, then there is no reason for me to wait
here. I might just as well go onward, to the Gate of Light, and
wait for them on the other side of it."
And then moves forward, briefly, before departing, leaving Berd with
the lingering memory of a ghostly kiss on his scaled brow, and a fading
echo, "Thank you, once again."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
I'm sure that wasn't as easy as you made it seem, Berd. Now, do we
like the ringing of the bell or not? I lost track in all the discussion.
"Yes," Dorian agrees, as his mind now races to comprehend if the bell is helping or not. "It
is good you are loyal to the direction of your leaders, but.... The
question is what would you do if the decision were yours, but also if
the town people didn't mind? Or, in other words, do you believe the
bell should be rung-- aside from all the concerns and the orders and so
forth?"
Now he was delaying to hear what the others said.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
One, amoung so many. But that one is worth the effort, is it not?
Cyan rubs her forehead, concealing her tears at the thought of the poor
woman, waiting so long for her children, denying herself paradise at
the hope of seeing them again.
And if we break the bell, these maddened spirits,
these selfish...monstrous...creatures, will be unleashed upon
humanity. The ones they hated, in many cases, are long gone, and
yet they will selfishly take out their frustration upon any whose path
they cross? Cyan's thoughts harden, as does her heart. They
are not trapped by anything save their own desires - they may leave at
any time. Do not the people of this realm have a right to defend
their lives? They do not cage the spirits here - they merely bar
them from crossing to torment! I say we leave the good people of
this land with their bell - the good spirits will, hopefully,
eventually leave in search of their loved ones, or will encounter them
upon their deaths. The evil ones - well, I pity them, but I would
not loose them upon a helpless world.
Berd watches as the spirit fades, moving along its Road to the
Gate. He is silent, considering, his voice absent from the link
as Cyan speaks. When she is finished, he remains so for moments
longer. Not thinking, no, for his mind is already made up.
Considering...consequences.
I believe the bell should stay. For the
reasons Cyan gives, and more. Simply put, if we release the evil
spirits, they will flood the world with their hatred and madness.
If we break this bell, we must break them all, and see to it that the
people cannot make more, correct? But bhe bell, and the other
bells, presumably, is the only defense these good folk have against the
ghosts. Deprive them of that, they are helpless. They have
no sorcerers who can strike back, no beings of great spirit to control
the wraiths. The night will belong to the dead, and civilization
will begin to crumble.
We will have traded a vibrant, growing world for the madness of the
long-dead, who refuse to go to their rests for want of gratifying their
selfish desires and infantile rages.
Easy enough, Dorian. As I said, I have some experience dealing
with the dead...and that woman, the wisest of them, made her own
choices. I did little but speak, and make them hear.
Cyan, sitting in her chair, stares out the window with brilliant, amethyst eyes, and a small smile grows on her face.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
The large black wolf takes a corner of Serena's dress loosely between his teath and tugs lightly in the direction of the Inn.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Good. That is as I thought, too, Berd and Cyan, Dorian agrees with a slight mental smile. Though, that was not my first impression. And now, I've disturbed this poor priest for no good reason.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The priest considers Dorian's question for the longest time, then replies, "It
is my duty to protect my flock, and to assure them that the church is
here to stay. The bell serves both functions, even if the former
function only protects them from things that live in their own hearts
and minds."
"Until somebody tells me that is no longer my duty, then I shall continue to do it."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I have been sent," Dorian says with a note that indicates an abrupt, but not discourteous, change in the conversatoin. "I
have a message to deliver, my friend. Yet, it is a message that cannot
be spoken. I assure you that no one will tell you to change what you
do. Spiritually, God works through the angels, spirits and even
saints-- though they are not as mankind expects them to be-- On earth,
physically, he works through the church. The church is his hands, his
mouthpiece, his body-- I'm sure you're familiar with the script. We
know that God is perfect, yet the church, his body, is comprised of
imperfect human beings. The question then becomes, is the church
perfect or fallible?"
And yet, I cannot help but wonder. The bell disrupts the natural
order of this world, we are sure this is how things would be if the
bell was not rung?
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
I am certain the Priest will weather this small interruption, Dorian.
Cyan's voice is ironic, but gently so, and back at the table, she
shakes her head as if clearing it, sapphire eyes refocusing.
Berd observes Dorian for a long moment. Then, as the dark man
continues to speak to the priest, a feeling of discomfort grows over
the bridging.
Abruptly, Berd pulls himself from his own link, leaving it intact, but
without his presence save as an echo holding it together.
Berd?....ah...I understand, Dorian. But the
bell has been rung. These people needed it, apparantly, to hold
back the ghosts. What is natural is...what is. The dead can
still reach their resting place, and the living are protect from those
who would cause them harm.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 13:09, Thu 29 Sept 2005.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James unobtrusively re-enters the bridging.
He continues to pester Jonnee for his preferences in poker. "Five
card stud? Texas Hold'em? Forget that, I wouldn't know how
to play. Whatever it is they do in the World Series Poker?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I know stud, but I never heard of Texas Hold'em." Jonnee answers James' question, then adds one of his own, "What's a texas?"
I agree with Cyan, we should leave these folks able to defend
themselves. It's the natural order for wild animals to attack
people sometimes, but that doesn't mean they shouldn't be allowed to
try and fight them off.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena had stayed put waiting to see what the ultimate decision would
be on the situation with the spirits. Serena had felt Devlin's sadness
and had frankly thought Aaron was a bit rough on him. Reaching down she
laid her hand on the wolf's head in a gesture of both comfort and
understanding.
Once the final decision was made Serena let loose a sigh of relief and
then she too pulled out of the bridging that had been made. Leaving
only her link with Devlin. As she felt the tug at the hem of her dress
Shyla leaned over a bit and spoke mentally with Devlin alone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin changes his mind about remaining as he is, there is no reply and
then Serena can see him begin to change. minutes pass and a man is
standing next to her once again. He takes Serena's hand and starts
walking back toward the Inn.
After a moment he speeks quietly, "Aaron's words did not bother me." he
says, relizing that she had felt and misundersttod his emotion. "It was
the fact that I do not have a world that I can call home, and I'm not
sure if I really want one."
Then he turns to look at the woman as they cotinue to walk, his head tilts slightly, "I do not plan on leaving..."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I fear I have never heard of Texas," Cyan chimes in, "but I have some
familiarity with cards. Perhaps I could learn as I go?" The
bard relaxes a hair, drumming fingers on the table for a moment, then
look at the cards.
"I only hope you will not 'clean me out', as the saying goes," she laughes.
Outside, Berd sits on a branch, deep in thought, his glittering eyes
the only things visible in the darkness. They flick toward Devlin
and Serena as that pair walk by, back toward the Inn, then turn up to
stare into the sky, at the stars above.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Texas is a place. Nevermind, it's not important. Stud it is."
"Jonnee, correct me when I go wrong. The idea
of the game is to win a round of cards, usually called a hand, either
by having a better hand, or combination, of cards or by fooling the
other players into thinking that you do."
James shuffles the pack one more time then deals five cards face down in front of Jonnee, Cyan and himself.
"Each player initially gets five cards dealt face down. The
player looks at their cards but keeps them secret. I'll show my
hand this time round so that you can see how it works."
James turns his five cards face up, revealing the 4 of spades, Jack of
spades, Queen of diamonds, 9 of diamonds and Ace of hearts.
"Hmm, not much to go on there. At this point you have three
options: First, you can abandon the hand and fold, probably a good
option for me here. If you stay in the betting you can ask the
dealer to replace any number of cards from your hand. If I was to
do that, I would consider keeping the Ace, the highest card and asking
for four new cards. That would reveal that I had a bad hand, so
the third option is to keep the cards, bad as they are, or swap one,
and pretend I have a good hand. I'll swap four."
James removes all but the Ace of hearts from his hand, turns the others
face down and puts them to one side, then draws four more cards.
Turned face up they are the 5 of hearts, 7 of spades, 3 of diamonds and
Ace of hearts.
"Alright, that's better. I have a pair of
Aces. The highest pair possible. The cards go in order from
2 through ten then Jack, Queen, King, Ace. The hands go in order;
pair, three of a kind..." James pauses, "Jonnee, does four of a kind beat a full house, a pair and three of a kind, or the other way round?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan sits quietly while James discusses his hand, studying her
cards. Then she nods, slowly. "So this is Poker, of a
sort. Good. I have a...passing familiarity with the game."
Years of wandering the road. Years of travelling from Inn to Inn,
on many of the Myriad Worlds, of singing for her supper, of dealing
with gamblers, of gambling, herself. Cyan may not know where to
find the safety on a pistol, or the 'on' switch on a computer; a CD
player would mystify her, and a car is a terrifying and exhilerating
experience.
But cards, now. Cards, she knows.
Her amber eyes gleam slightly in the dim light. "From what I
recall, a sequence of the same symbol beats any hand, then four of a
kind, then pair'n'triplets - ah, you called it full house, did you not?
- then a five-of-same, then sequence, triplet, two pair, one pair, high
card...is that not it?" she asks, innocently.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena nodded to what Devlin is saying and then she said, " Originally
when we met the intention was for me to take you to Amber to find your
Mother. At some point Devlin I promise you I will do that. Then perhaps
you can call Amber your home. After a great deal of time has passed
that is."
As he took her hand Serena smiled and said," I am very glad to hear you
are not leaving..." then she trailed off unsure of exactly what to say.
although many things popped to mind she wasn't sure how some things
would be taken.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I think it's my father that's in Amber," Devlin returns, "at least
that's what I was told. Though who can say. I was told that I probably
get my shapeshifting ability from my mother."
He walks on beside Serena quietly for a moment. They are getting close
to the Inn and Devlin can see Aaron standing outside. He also noticed
Berd, well not so much all of him as much as his eyes shining in the
dark. Devlin would like to figure out the small dragon creature. And
there was that last thought that the drake had left him when he
disengaged himself from the link. At least someone, or rather
something, ("one or thing? another question to be answered about Berd") had agreed with him...
As they get closer to the door inside Devlin adds, "I'm not even sure I
wish to know who my parents are. What kind of parents have a child and
then leave him to be raised by sevants, never letting him know who they
are?"
He shakes his head.
Closer now he looks at Aaron and asks, "Has any decision been made
about when we will be leaving in the morning? I think that Serena and I
will turn in if we aren't needed immediately." Completely ignoring the
other situation. They will do on that as they decide. Devlin voiced his
opinion and left it at that. He wasn't about to argue over something of
that nature.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron looked up at Devlin with one sharp eye, shaking his head in response to his question.
"No. No decision yet, but you're free to turn in if you wish. Oh..." he
paused, waving a hand at him. "I apologize for my outburst. I'm...
well, there's just alot on my mind. I didn't mean to insult you, if I
did. Again, I apologize."
Sighing, Aaron gestured to the door behind him, and then nodded towards where Dorian still was.
"Cyan and a good majority fo the rest of us are in the Inn, and I think
they're playing cards, from what I've been hearing. You're free to join
them or sleep, the choice is yours. I will wait for Dorian."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Where I come from the call a sequence a straight
and five-of-the-same a flush. A sequence of the same is a
straight flush. But it's the same game."
"Your order is not how I remember it, but I can't claim much authority since I can't actually remember the order."
James looks to Jonnee to make sure he's satisfied with the rules.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Nodding as Cyan describes the relative worth of the various hands, Jonnee breaks into a broad grin. "Odd, isn't it?" he remarks at last, "The
way some things seem to echo across so many worlds. Poker for
instance. I've come across it in lots of places, and even the
name is usually close enough that I can tell what people are talking
about."
"Chess, too."
"And it's not as if chess and poker are simple games, with simple
rules. But I've been to places where the locals aren't even
human, but chess is played, and they still use the exact same rules,
far as I can tell, even if some of the pieces have slightly different
names and shapes."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Chess?" Cyan frowns, considering. She glances toward the
window for a moment. "At least he is still speaking to me...ah, je'asta.
Strategic games. Well, war is the same from world to world,
Jonnee...in the essentials. There will always be a need for games
of strategy, I fear," the bard finishes sadly, before picking up her
cards. "Poker, though...I have to admit that one flummoxes
me. Perhaps the Lords of Amber brought it out into the Myriad
Worlds on their travels?"
"I would be curious to know your order, James - one of those little
differences I find interesting." Her amethyst eyes sparkle.
"Not as interesting as, say, a song, but interesting nonetheless."
Outside, Berd sits upon the branches, staring into space.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The priest nods at Dorian's question, "Ah...
the old debate: if the church works the will of God, then how can it
make mistakes? This is a test, then? Very well..."
"Yes, the church is fallible, for we are only human, after all.
God instructs us, but sometimes we mishear His words, or misinterpret
them. In doing so we harm the faith of the people, who do not
always perceive the mistake as being our own, and may believe our
erroneous action to be exactly as God willed it."
Devlin and Serena return to the inn, and after a brief conversation
with Aaron, enteer to find Cyan, James and Jonnee playing cards.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
"That's the thing, Cyan," James says as he deals a fresh hand, "Everything
above the point I got to would have been a bit of a guess. And
now that I've heard your order, I don't have any confidence in my own
guesses. Best we just use yours, if Jonnee agrees."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Still concerned about Dorian, Cyan glances up as Serena and Devlin enter. Good...two of us, back inside...but no Dorian.
Frowning, she looks back at her cards. "Care to join us for a
hand, either of you? Or both? No stakes, it seems, which
sits well with me."
Amber eyes flick up to glance at James. "A million games, a
million methods. I have been fortunate enough to bump into one or
two, here and there, and I tend to recall the methods for such
things. I cannot drive an...automobile, you termed it, I cannot
shift us through the worlds, and I cannot operate machinery, but games
of luck and skill, those I can play."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James looks up and smiles greeting at Serena and Devlin, then returns
to considering his hand. He keeps his face carefully
impassive. Once he's satisfied, he turns to Cyan to see how many
cards she wants to swap.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan, frowning, studies her cards. "Two, please," she mutters,
sliding her low cards across the table to James. The rest she
keeps in her hand.
"As for you," she mumbles quietly, "keep yourself in check. I do not require to win this."
Outside, Berd shifts to put is body into the wind, and gives a ferocious round of sniffing.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
While he'd like to stay here and play the part of the mysterious
messenger, his job is done. There is nothing to change after all, and
thus, no need for him to be here. "Very well, then." He collects himself and prepares to leave. "There
will be a significant donation for you, my only stipulation is that it
is used localy as you and the people of the town see fit. Fare well,
priest."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron had been keeping a mental "eye" on Dorian ever since this entire
oddity began. Satisfied that the man was done with his work, Aaron
finally got up and re-entered the Inn.
Noting the amusement that a good majority of his group was taking part
in, he was at least moderately pleased that they could take a break. He
felt all too well the fact that they had been pushing themselves
nonstop, and Aaron couldn't help but know that they needed this time.
So for now, despite his own desires, he let them relax. Being the
leader was one thing, but being a jerk was another. He was more than
tired of one, and quite getting used to the other, so for the nonce, he
decided to grab a little sleep.
He waved to Cyan and his comrades at their table, mumbled something
about "shuteye", and then made his way to his rooms alone. He removed
Ilse from his back, leaned her up against the wall beside his bed, and
shed his armor and clothing, glad for his one singular moment of peace
and quiet.
"Heavy rests the crown." he sighed to himself, relaxing as he fell upon the bed and immediately dropped asleep.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
While the card game continues, Berd flits silently through the air
outside, slowly gliding to alight upon the eaves near the Priest's
door. Eyes glittering faintly, he waits for Dorian to exit.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
Serena had been inordinately relieved that they were looking for one of
her uncles to be the parent of Devlin. That at least made it obvious
that the draw she felt towards Devlin was not because they shared the
same parent.
" I hate to say it. However, it is not unusual for members of the
family to leave their children to grow up in shadow. Most beleive it is
the only way to keep them protected. I am not saying i agree with it. I
am just trying to let you know how things are." Serena said before the
reached Aaron.
As Aaorn apologized Serena smiled slightly. It was good to know that
Aaron had realized that he ahad been a bit harsh nd had the maturity
and will to apologize for it. " Well then I guess we will turn in
Aaron.Devlin?" Serena asked with one word whether or not he still
wished to call it a day.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James takes Cyan's proffered cards and starts a new stack separate from the cards remaining in the deck. "Two it is." He passes the top two cards from the deck face down to Cyan.
"Jonnee?"
OOC: Yes, I know it's a placeholder post.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian quietly steps out of the priest's cabin, leaving the man to his
own thoughts. This would be merely another encounter, a stranger
seeking answers, maybe. That was acceptable. He'd learned what he
wanted to know about both the man and his church, though much more
information had been gleaned mentally than verbally. The conversation
was merely a distraction.
He stands outside the cabin, taking his time straightening his clothing
and collecting his thoughts, before finally setting off the path back
towards the inn, rest and the abiding comfort of dreamless oblivion for
a short while. For many, death promised paradise. For Dorian, paradise
was merely the hope of no longer existing, no more thoughts, no more
emotions, just nothingness. It was a happy thought, for him anyway. He
doubted others would understand such a philosophy. Would the priest?
Would Cyan? She would laugh, no doubt. Jonnee would have something to
say. James, quiet and introspective, would eventually say something. He
imagined it would be something surprisingly wise, too. Aaron? Aaron
would start out with a sigh, of course. Then he'd talk a lot about
himself, probably.
And after she laughed, then she'd make him eat dinner with the rest of
the group again. It hadn't been entirely uncomfortable, though it was
glaringly unnecessary. He could say he'd done it, he'd explored the
unknown territory called dinner, conversation and sociability. He
didn't like it much, that strange land. It had rules and conventions
that were no more than a burden to be stumbled over.
Diplomacy on Samhain had been a different matter. Rather than
politeness and tact, there was intimidation, the artful disguising of
all weakness, the subtle maneuvering of border defenses and clever
manipulation of the unknown, the mystery to keep your enemy guessing.
That was diplomacy, dinner conversation. Instead, they had talked
about, well, nothing in particular. It was relaxing. He couldn't deny
that. He just couldn't see the point in it all. Was relaxing the point?
There were better ways.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
As the game continues at the table, Berd cocks his head and stares
through the wind-swept darkness at Dorian. Teeth show in a
needle-sharp grin, and the little dragon wings ahead to land on another
tree-branch, keeping to Dorian's pace.
Raising his head, Berd again tests the breeze, uttering a chiming sound
of satisfaction a moment later. His glittering eyes drop to
continue their fixation on the dark man.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian continues to walk, seeming to pay no attention to the drake amongst the trees nearby....
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
He saw Arianne in his dreams.
Nobody in the group knew that, and Aaron felt that it was totally
unnecessarry for them to know about that particular issue, but sleep
was the only real way Aaron and Arianne had any, honest-to-God alone
time together.
It had been a long time since they'd met, and since she was tied to
him, there was really no part of his mind that she couldn't access.
She could tell he was tired, and he felt it, but there wasn't much he
could do about it except let his body rest. It wasn't so much the
journey as... the passage of time. Time sat upon his shoulders like a
stone giant, never moving, but always gaining weight.
There is more to this than you and I.
Her vague, ghost-like shape swirled around him. He didn't see himself,
just felt his mental 'body' resting inside his own head. Arianne's
physical body was very dead, the both of them long ago resigned to that
fact. It was odd, that Aaron was only now realizing that so much of his
thinking had been self-centered, it almost made him sick.
So he merely sighed mentally in response.
Arianne coalesced as a sort of spirit-form before him, a ghostly woman in an ice-blue dress.
Sleep now, lost one. Even time can wait.
She left then, and Aaron soon found himself moving on to other things... other dreams.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin listens to what Serena has to say, not unusual for his family to abandon their children... what kind of a screwed up family does he come from He shakes his head and says, "Yes, I think I need some rest, my head seems a bit foggy."
The man looks around at the group playing cards, "Goodnight all, wake us if we are needed"
Still holding Serena's hand in his own, Devlin turns and heads for the stairs to the rooms above.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Good night all and enjoy yourselves." Serena said to the others before
folowing Devlin out of the common room. On the way up the stairs Serena
said," I know you are tired but if you need to talk I am here and more
than willing to listen."
" On the other hand if you just want to go to sleep I can understand
and we can always talk another time." Serena said speaking softly as
they walkd up the stairs. Serena knew she should have explained the odd
practice of her relatives leaving children to grow in shadow but had
not really had the chance. Ruefully Serena wished she had said nothing
at all.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan silently studies her cards, trying to keep her thoughts focused on
the game. It's getting hard - she's tired, everyone else is
tired...it might be better to go to bed.
Devlin and Serena enter, holding hands...now that's interesting.
She nods to them both as they head for the stairs. "Stars bless
your rest, and safe dreams," she replies, noting that Devlin keeps
ahold of Serena's hand as they ascend. I'd better wait a bit before going to bed. Cheeks a little red, she goes back to the cards.
After a short time, though, when it becomes apparant that the game
isn't really going everywhere, everyone else too tired to post, she
stands. "Best that I be heading to sleep, as well.
Apologies, gentlemen...but rest calls."
Outside, Berd moodily paces Dorian, the glittering of his eyes dulled.
As Dorian approaches the inn, Berd stops on a tree limb, curling up near the trunk.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian quietly slips into the inn and heads upstairs to his room,
silently fretting this he had not worked on his spells as he badly
needed to. He felt no lose, but they might later in the heat of battle.
He cursed himself for giving in to such foolishness.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
After a long moment, Berd lets out a sigh. He floats up, on
silent wings, to a window where the light has so recently gone out.
The window, not surprisingly, is open. What. A.
Coincidence. The drake crawls in, and twin sparkles of light
appear behind him - faerie, created from air, smoke, and
starlight. Gripping the window, they struggle for a moment, the
male faerie groaning silently, and then slowly close it. The
female wipes her brow, and glares at the male (collapsed
melodramatically on the sill) before they both puff into nothingness.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin walks Serena to her room and stops outside of her door. Finally
releasing her hand he says, "It's nice having someone I can talk to for
a change. I really have been on my own for too long. I guess I missed
the company of others and didn't even realize it."
He stops talking and looks up and down the hallway then looks back at
the her. "Well, I guess we'll have a busy day tomorow. We should
probably get some rest."
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I suppose we should Devlin." Serena then paused with her hand on the
door and said," The offer to talk about things still stands whenever
you are ready or wanting any kind of answers. Sleep and dream well
Devlin." Then with a last smile she opened the door to her room and
slipped inside. Serena's every intention was to go straight o bed and
build up some reserves for whatever would come next.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Devlin
-----------------------------------------------------------
Devlin watches Serena disappear into her room. He then stands there
just loking at the door for a moment. He's attracted to her, yes, but
it's more than that. He's just not sure what it is.
The man turns down the hall and moves off toward his own room. He's
still not sure what he can do to aide this group that he has found, but
that matters little now. He has his own reasons for being here. There
seems to be a lot he needs to learn that he was not taught and there is
Serena who he wants to stay close to.
Devlin pauses once, thinking about returning to the woman's room and
knocking on the door, but then thinks better of it and continues on his
way. He needs to sleep, or at least to rest. He doesn't exactly sleep.
Even when resting one needs to be alert, part of the mind always ready.
Another of those things he learned while travelling alone and making
the outdoors his home.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Serena
-----------------------------------------------------------
As Serena lay in bed she could not help thinking about Devlin. There
was a mutual attraction between the two of them of which she had no
doubt. However, there was also the sense of some other draw. It could
simply be blood of Amber identifying with another of the blood of Amber.
Either way Serena wonsered what would come of it. After all these are
dangerous times she thought. Would it be a good idea to become attached
to someone at such a time...now. Or would it be a hindrance. As Serena
was thinking these thoughts as she fell into a deep sleep.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
After a short time, a very dim light flickers in Cyan's room, then
steadies. It stays lit for most of the night, unseen by all, save
for perhaps the occasional passing bat.
===========================================================
Re: Part 41 - World enough, and Time by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
After playing a few hands of poker with Jonnee, winning enough of them
to be fairly sure Jonnee isn't using his phenomenal speed to switch
cards, James decides it's time for bed - again. As they're the
last two out of the common room, James snuffs out the lamps before
heading upstairs.
=========================================================== |
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