Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 19:35 13 Oct 2002
"I really don't want to go to the Astral." Kel thinks. "If everything I have read and heard is taken to be true, then..." His gaze goes to Miri as they move down the street. He wishes that they were not what they were. How he would give anything he could to simply be able to flee with her. Flee all of this, together, and live out their lives in peace. "Peace." He thinks. He has recently had a taste of true peace. His eyes find Miri's and it is not hard for her to see his emotions reflected there. Miri asks about the diminutive woman who is with them, and Kel sighs. The Astral is certainly no place for an untrained individual. Heck, it isn't even a good place for himself and his Huntress!
"We have no choice." he says. "We have to take her with us." He pauses. "Somehow, I know if we leave her behind, Searagas will find her. And kill her." He knows that it is unnecessary to add the last part, but he wants to make sure that this woman, whoever she is, knows the danger she brings to them. If Searagas and the cleric of Apep are after her to slay her, take her soul, or whatever, then they will not hesitate to harm those that attempt to stay their goal. Even now Kel finds that he wants some small bit of recognition for what he does.
"We need to get to that portal, love." he says. He ponders, trying to remember where the last portal was. The Lady of Pain shut down the portals, and he knows that there were only a handful remaining open. By now, she may have closed them all.
"I really don't want to go to the Astral." Kel thinks. "If everything I have read and heard is taken to be true, then..." His gaze goes to Miri as they move down the street. He wishes that they were not what they were. How he would give anything he could to simply be able to flee with her. Flee all of this, together, and live out their lives in peace. "Peace." He thinks. He has recently had a taste of true peace. His eyes find Miri's and it is not hard for her to see his emotions reflected there. Miri asks about the diminutive woman who is with them, and Kel sighs. The Astral is certainly no place for an untrained individual. Heck, it isn't even a good place for himself and his Huntress!
"We have no choice." he says. "We have to take her with us." He pauses. "Somehow, I know if we leave her behind, Searagas will find her. And kill her." He knows that it is unnecessary to add the last part, but he wants to make sure that this woman, whoever she is, knows the danger she brings to them. If Searagas and the cleric of Apep are after her to slay her, take her soul, or whatever, then they will not hesitate to harm those that attempt to stay their goal. Even now Kel finds that he wants some small bit of recognition for what he does.
"We need to get to that portal, love." he says. He ponders, trying to remember where the last portal was. The Lady of Pain shut down the portals, and he knows that there were only a handful remaining open. By now, she may have closed them all.
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 11:14 14 Oct 2002
Ailif finds it a bit unsettling to be traveling with this dark pair, the two making nary a sound as they go. She hasn't been able to pray for spells, and thus also feels naked, here in the strange city of Sigil. Her armor is gone, she has no weapons... The pair stops and converses quietly, and Ailif moves closer to hear what they say. "...no choice. We have to take her with us." she hears the darkly clad man say. Now slightly perturbed the Sunite whispers, "Hey! I'm right here. Talk to me." The man in black spares her a glance.
"Look," Ailif says, "I appreciate all that you have done for me. You probably saved my life. For that, I will be foreever grateful. But I don't want to go to the Astral Plane. I was told that there were two people here in Sigil that I need to find. And find them I must if my Victor is to live." Ailif pauses. "If you could just help me find them, if you know of them, then I can be out of your hair and on my way."
Kel listens patiently as the red-haired woman speaks. He then looks about, realizing, it seems for the first time, that they have stopped. "We need to keep moving." he says. He and Miri move off, though moving slightly slower and still communicating back and forth. Ailif notices the subtle hand gestures, and grits her teeth in frustration. That's it!
Ailif comes to a complete stop, and it doesn't take long for Kel and Miri to notice that she stands there, arms crossed over her chest. "I told you that I don't want to go to the Astral." Ailif says. "I need to find the Hunter and the Huntress before I do anything else. I was told that they were here, and the Astral is not my destination."
Ailif finds it a bit unsettling to be traveling with this dark pair, the two making nary a sound as they go. She hasn't been able to pray for spells, and thus also feels naked, here in the strange city of Sigil. Her armor is gone, she has no weapons... The pair stops and converses quietly, and Ailif moves closer to hear what they say. "...no choice. We have to take her with us." she hears the darkly clad man say. Now slightly perturbed the Sunite whispers, "Hey! I'm right here. Talk to me." The man in black spares her a glance.
"Look," Ailif says, "I appreciate all that you have done for me. You probably saved my life. For that, I will be foreever grateful. But I don't want to go to the Astral Plane. I was told that there were two people here in Sigil that I need to find. And find them I must if my Victor is to live." Ailif pauses. "If you could just help me find them, if you know of them, then I can be out of your hair and on my way."
Kel listens patiently as the red-haired woman speaks. He then looks about, realizing, it seems for the first time, that they have stopped. "We need to keep moving." he says. He and Miri move off, though moving slightly slower and still communicating back and forth. Ailif notices the subtle hand gestures, and grits her teeth in frustration. That's it!
Ailif comes to a complete stop, and it doesn't take long for Kel and Miri to notice that she stands there, arms crossed over her chest. "I told you that I don't want to go to the Astral." Ailif says. "I need to find the Hunter and the Huntress before I do anything else. I was told that they were here, and the Astral is not my destination."
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 12:17 14 Oct 2002
At the mention of their titles, which no one is supposed to know outside of Bast's church, Miri turns to regard the fiery-haired priestess with studied neutrality, her face falling into a professional expression of detached interest. However, she now regards the woman in a new light. Before, she had merely been a victim of her father's lust for power, a possible casualty in this war. Now, now...Miri watches her for a moment, quietly assessing the perturbed Ailif. Miri gets the feeling that the woman is telling the truth. Everything in the way she holds herself, the confidence, the way she meets their eyes, bespeaks of innocence. However, the innocent can be used and manipulated without their knowledge by the corrupt. Miri wouldn't put it past Seragas to be using the woman in an elaborate trap. Why else would Yakilios let her go without so much as raising his voice in protest? Miri has no idea how it could've been orchestrated since the half-fiend would've had no idea what she and Kel were planning, but she's not discounting the possibility.
"Hunter and Huntress, you say?" Miri rasps in a perfectly neutral tone. "Palintar and I have lived in Sigil for many years and have fair knowledge of what goes on here. We may be able to point you in the right direction if we had a clearer idea of who you seek." Miri stands and waits patiently, hoping to fish a bit more information from the woman as to the hows and whys of the matter.
The tiefling, glances surrepticiously at Kel, watching for his reaction as well.
At the mention of their titles, which no one is supposed to know outside of Bast's church, Miri turns to regard the fiery-haired priestess with studied neutrality, her face falling into a professional expression of detached interest. However, she now regards the woman in a new light. Before, she had merely been a victim of her father's lust for power, a possible casualty in this war. Now, now...Miri watches her for a moment, quietly assessing the perturbed Ailif. Miri gets the feeling that the woman is telling the truth. Everything in the way she holds herself, the confidence, the way she meets their eyes, bespeaks of innocence. However, the innocent can be used and manipulated without their knowledge by the corrupt. Miri wouldn't put it past Seragas to be using the woman in an elaborate trap. Why else would Yakilios let her go without so much as raising his voice in protest? Miri has no idea how it could've been orchestrated since the half-fiend would've had no idea what she and Kel were planning, but she's not discounting the possibility.
"Hunter and Huntress, you say?" Miri rasps in a perfectly neutral tone. "Palintar and I have lived in Sigil for many years and have fair knowledge of what goes on here. We may be able to point you in the right direction if we had a clearer idea of who you seek." Miri stands and waits patiently, hoping to fish a bit more information from the woman as to the hows and whys of the matter.
The tiefling, glances surrepticiously at Kel, watching for his reaction as well.
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 02:00 15 Oct 2002
Kel allows one eyebrow to slowly raise, showing that he is listening and interested, while his mind is tumbling over what the woman has said. Though he has not been the Hunter long, he knows that nobody knows of the titles but a handful of beings. His gaze meets Miri's both the assassin and the tiefling's eyes conveying much between the two.
Ailif sighs, her arms uncrossing. "To be honest, I'm really not sure whom I seek. The Hunter and the Huntress are all the information I have. That, and I am supposed to acquire a ring." Ailif dares not say more without fully knowing who these people are. They seem straightforward enough, and she is grateful for their actions thus far. However, there is far too much at stake to ramble off everything she knows. On the other hand, even here, in this place, they must surely have a good idea of what is going on. "There is a great evil threatening my land." she says, slowly. "I'm trying to help my love in his quest to put an end to it." Her gaze travels from the dark cloaked man to the slender woman and back again.
Kel shakes his head. "I'm afraid that without any more information than that, then your search will be extremely difficult. There are many here in Sigil that could be viewed as hunters." He pauses and then continues. "Look, we have to get you out of here. Seragas is coming for you, and some Key, and we'd rather not have to face him in our current state. We don't have time to debate."
Kel allows one eyebrow to slowly raise, showing that he is listening and interested, while his mind is tumbling over what the woman has said. Though he has not been the Hunter long, he knows that nobody knows of the titles but a handful of beings. His gaze meets Miri's both the assassin and the tiefling's eyes conveying much between the two.
Ailif sighs, her arms uncrossing. "To be honest, I'm really not sure whom I seek. The Hunter and the Huntress are all the information I have. That, and I am supposed to acquire a ring." Ailif dares not say more without fully knowing who these people are. They seem straightforward enough, and she is grateful for their actions thus far. However, there is far too much at stake to ramble off everything she knows. On the other hand, even here, in this place, they must surely have a good idea of what is going on. "There is a great evil threatening my land." she says, slowly. "I'm trying to help my love in his quest to put an end to it." Her gaze travels from the dark cloaked man to the slender woman and back again.
Kel shakes his head. "I'm afraid that without any more information than that, then your search will be extremely difficult. There are many here in Sigil that could be viewed as hunters." He pauses and then continues. "Look, we have to get you out of here. Seragas is coming for you, and some Key, and we'd rather not have to face him in our current state. We don't have time to debate."
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 08:14 15 Oct 2002
Miri nods in agreement, making a subtle gesture towards an open alleyway nearby where a seemingly drunken planar slumps against a filthy wall, and says, "Too many eyes and ears here to really talk, anyway." With a heavy sigh, she signs to Kel, not wishing for anyone who may be standing hidden in a shadow somewhere to hear their destination, "Let's go to Tal's. It's safe and I have a feeling that once we have conveyed our news, Talathorn will not stay in the tavern. So, we won't have to worry about drawing the half-fiend and his lackeys onto him."
The assassin reaches out and gently squeezes Miri's shoulder in understanding, the act of a partner comforting his companion. However, in his hooded gaze is far more sympathy than that simple gesture can convey. Here, on the street however, he dares not offer more than a cursory gesture. He lets has hand fall back to his side and turns to Ailif, saying quietly, "Come. Let's get to safety and then we can talk a bit more."
Once again, the two take up positions both in front and behind of Ailif, guiding her swiftly through the streets. More than once, the trio come upon ragged groups of toughs who stand in territorial circles, daring anyone to come within their turf. All are lean and menacing, each seeming to thirst for a chance at bloodshed the way a man who has drunk nothing but water thirsts for a taste of wine. Kel and Miri, however, wisely steer clear of these obstacles, giving the thugs their room rather than needlessly draw attention to themselves and risk injury. Ailif finds herself looking about the place and shuddering in revulsion and fear. This is far, far worse than any slum area she has ever visited before. Even this early in the morning, there are whores already plying their trade along the streets, some human and others....not. Some carry the signs of disease. In others, it is hard to tell whether it is sickness that causes their flesh to be as it is or if it is natural for their species. The priestess comes to a halt at one point to watch in disgust as a cart pulled by morose, brown robed men stops a few feet away from them. One of the men picks up a dead body, tossing it unceremoniously onto the pile of corpses heaped upon the wooden transport before they trundle off to gather more of their harvest. Behind her, the slender woman prods her gently in the back, urging her onward. Ailif is more than a touch relieved when they arrive at the doors of a tavern. However, it is still located well within the Hive's borders and seems none too reputable, but at least inside they will be off the streets.
Kel walks up to the door and tries it. He is not surprised to find it locked, even though it is well past the hour when the tavernkeeper normally opens his doors. His heart drops. This only confirms what he had feared; They are too late and Dru is dead. He shakes his head, hating to disturb the old warrior when he knows he will be mourning, but this is one of the few places they know is safe. Besides, as Miri pointed out, they have knowledge he will want. Reaching up, he bangs upon the door and listens as the sound echoes through the empty establishment. For long minutes, they stand outside and wait, hearing nothing. Again, Kel knocks. And, again, there is no answer.
Miri looks around to make sure that no one is watching and quickly pulls Kel back so that he makes a long shadow in front of the door. Then, she rasps out the words to a quick spell. This is one that Kel has seen her use before, the creeping shadow that lets her see throug hit. Ailif watches as a deep shadow forms at Miri's feet and glides across the cobblestones to slip under the door. The woman closes her eyes and turns her head as if looking around. Softly, she says, "I don't see or hear Tal anywhere. He may have already gone to the Mortuary to have Dru's name put in the Book of the Dead." Instead of opening her eyes and stepping out of this odd trance, the woman seems to loose her color. Ailif watches in amazement as the woman fades to shades of gray and then simply seems to "melt" into the man's shadow, disappearing from view. A few seconds later, the front door opens, the woman standing in the open doorway.
"I don't think he'll mind if we use the front room," she says and quickly gestures for them to enter.
Miri nods in agreement, making a subtle gesture towards an open alleyway nearby where a seemingly drunken planar slumps against a filthy wall, and says, "Too many eyes and ears here to really talk, anyway." With a heavy sigh, she signs to Kel, not wishing for anyone who may be standing hidden in a shadow somewhere to hear their destination, "Let's go to Tal's. It's safe and I have a feeling that once we have conveyed our news, Talathorn will not stay in the tavern. So, we won't have to worry about drawing the half-fiend and his lackeys onto him."
The assassin reaches out and gently squeezes Miri's shoulder in understanding, the act of a partner comforting his companion. However, in his hooded gaze is far more sympathy than that simple gesture can convey. Here, on the street however, he dares not offer more than a cursory gesture. He lets has hand fall back to his side and turns to Ailif, saying quietly, "Come. Let's get to safety and then we can talk a bit more."
Once again, the two take up positions both in front and behind of Ailif, guiding her swiftly through the streets. More than once, the trio come upon ragged groups of toughs who stand in territorial circles, daring anyone to come within their turf. All are lean and menacing, each seeming to thirst for a chance at bloodshed the way a man who has drunk nothing but water thirsts for a taste of wine. Kel and Miri, however, wisely steer clear of these obstacles, giving the thugs their room rather than needlessly draw attention to themselves and risk injury. Ailif finds herself looking about the place and shuddering in revulsion and fear. This is far, far worse than any slum area she has ever visited before. Even this early in the morning, there are whores already plying their trade along the streets, some human and others....not. Some carry the signs of disease. In others, it is hard to tell whether it is sickness that causes their flesh to be as it is or if it is natural for their species. The priestess comes to a halt at one point to watch in disgust as a cart pulled by morose, brown robed men stops a few feet away from them. One of the men picks up a dead body, tossing it unceremoniously onto the pile of corpses heaped upon the wooden transport before they trundle off to gather more of their harvest. Behind her, the slender woman prods her gently in the back, urging her onward. Ailif is more than a touch relieved when they arrive at the doors of a tavern. However, it is still located well within the Hive's borders and seems none too reputable, but at least inside they will be off the streets.
Kel walks up to the door and tries it. He is not surprised to find it locked, even though it is well past the hour when the tavernkeeper normally opens his doors. His heart drops. This only confirms what he had feared; They are too late and Dru is dead. He shakes his head, hating to disturb the old warrior when he knows he will be mourning, but this is one of the few places they know is safe. Besides, as Miri pointed out, they have knowledge he will want. Reaching up, he bangs upon the door and listens as the sound echoes through the empty establishment. For long minutes, they stand outside and wait, hearing nothing. Again, Kel knocks. And, again, there is no answer.
Miri looks around to make sure that no one is watching and quickly pulls Kel back so that he makes a long shadow in front of the door. Then, she rasps out the words to a quick spell. This is one that Kel has seen her use before, the creeping shadow that lets her see throug hit. Ailif watches as a deep shadow forms at Miri's feet and glides across the cobblestones to slip under the door. The woman closes her eyes and turns her head as if looking around. Softly, she says, "I don't see or hear Tal anywhere. He may have already gone to the Mortuary to have Dru's name put in the Book of the Dead." Instead of opening her eyes and stepping out of this odd trance, the woman seems to loose her color. Ailif watches in amazement as the woman fades to shades of gray and then simply seems to "melt" into the man's shadow, disappearing from view. A few seconds later, the front door opens, the woman standing in the open doorway.
"I don't think he'll mind if we use the front room," she says and quickly gestures for them to enter.
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 10:55 15 Oct 2002
Ailif knows better than to stand and argue in the midst of the Hive, and follows along as they lead her to their destination. Ailif keeps her head down, trying to remain as inconspicuous as possible. She knew that if she were alone... She shudders at the thought. Her mind races as they walk, not feeling comfortable enough to go off on her own, though her heart urges her to get away from these two so she can help her Victor. However, her common sense tells her that she needs to stay with these two so at least she doesn't get lost.
They soon arrive at a tavern, and Ailif's spirits rise at being able to get off the street. They soon fall, however, when the place is found to be locked up tight. She sighs, wondering where they will lead her now. Then, the slender woman seems to meld into the shadows themselves, going into the tavern to let them in. Ailif is more than a bit surprised, but does not complain, just happy to be getting off the streets. She follows the darkly cloaked man into the front room.
Ailif knows better than to stand and argue in the midst of the Hive, and follows along as they lead her to their destination. Ailif keeps her head down, trying to remain as inconspicuous as possible. She knew that if she were alone... She shudders at the thought. Her mind races as they walk, not feeling comfortable enough to go off on her own, though her heart urges her to get away from these two so she can help her Victor. However, her common sense tells her that she needs to stay with these two so at least she doesn't get lost.
They soon arrive at a tavern, and Ailif's spirits rise at being able to get off the street. They soon fall, however, when the place is found to be locked up tight. She sighs, wondering where they will lead her now. Then, the slender woman seems to meld into the shadows themselves, going into the tavern to let them in. Ailif is more than a bit surprised, but does not complain, just happy to be getting off the streets. She follows the darkly cloaked man into the front room.
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 14:50 15 Oct 2002
As they step into the common room, Miri shuts the heavy, wooden door behind them. Both Kel and Ailif turn to watch as she traces a pattern upon the door panel with one finger, muttering an arcane word as she does so. There is a quick flash of light, the fading image of a rune upon the entry, and then all is dark and quiet once more as the protective seal is reset. Miri looks to her companions and says, “Make yourselves comfortable. I’m going to go see if Tal is holed up in the back and I just couldn’t hear him. It wouldn’t do to startle him.” She nods to them before making her way towards the hallway leading to Tal’s private chambers. Both can hear as she calls out from the back room, searching for her friend and making sure that there is no way he couldn’t realize who it is.
Kel looks around at the empty tavern, taking in the chairs all neatly stacked upon tables, out of the way of broom and mop for last night’s cleaning. Kel walks over to a table and pulls the chairs down, setting them up and then gesturing for Ailif to have a seat. He settles into a chair opposite of her, the old wood creaking with his weight as he leans back and says, “Hopefully, we can rest here for a short while. Momma should be able to divert Seragas and his ilk and gain us a bit of time.” His curiosity peaked, he sits back and regards the diminutive woman seated across from him. A key. Now, what in blazes does that mean? And where, exactly is she from? Kel’s brow furrows slightly as he thinks on her accent and, gradually, he realizes that he has heard a hint of that same speech pattern before. Miri. Though his beloved’s accent is more strongly influenced by her old wound and Sigilian language, there is still a faint trace of what this woman sounds like. He has but a few moments to sit and ponder before Miri returns, shaking her head.
“He’s not here and the place is packed up tight,” she settles into a chair between the two. She glances to Kel and says softly, “I don’t know where he’s gone, but I don’t think he’s not coming back. His armor and weapons are missing. Dru’s room is empty.” Miri reaches up and tucks a length of dark hair behind one ear, “He probably assumed that we perished.”
As they step into the common room, Miri shuts the heavy, wooden door behind them. Both Kel and Ailif turn to watch as she traces a pattern upon the door panel with one finger, muttering an arcane word as she does so. There is a quick flash of light, the fading image of a rune upon the entry, and then all is dark and quiet once more as the protective seal is reset. Miri looks to her companions and says, “Make yourselves comfortable. I’m going to go see if Tal is holed up in the back and I just couldn’t hear him. It wouldn’t do to startle him.” She nods to them before making her way towards the hallway leading to Tal’s private chambers. Both can hear as she calls out from the back room, searching for her friend and making sure that there is no way he couldn’t realize who it is.
Kel looks around at the empty tavern, taking in the chairs all neatly stacked upon tables, out of the way of broom and mop for last night’s cleaning. Kel walks over to a table and pulls the chairs down, setting them up and then gesturing for Ailif to have a seat. He settles into a chair opposite of her, the old wood creaking with his weight as he leans back and says, “Hopefully, we can rest here for a short while. Momma should be able to divert Seragas and his ilk and gain us a bit of time.” His curiosity peaked, he sits back and regards the diminutive woman seated across from him. A key. Now, what in blazes does that mean? And where, exactly is she from? Kel’s brow furrows slightly as he thinks on her accent and, gradually, he realizes that he has heard a hint of that same speech pattern before. Miri. Though his beloved’s accent is more strongly influenced by her old wound and Sigilian language, there is still a faint trace of what this woman sounds like. He has but a few moments to sit and ponder before Miri returns, shaking her head.
“He’s not here and the place is packed up tight,” she settles into a chair between the two. She glances to Kel and says softly, “I don’t know where he’s gone, but I don’t think he’s not coming back. His armor and weapons are missing. Dru’s room is empty.” Miri reaches up and tucks a length of dark hair behind one ear, “He probably assumed that we perished.”
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 02:03 16 Oct 2002
Kel sighs. "Well, we can't stay here long." he says. "There's no telling when Talathorn might be back." He pauses for a second before continuing. "I don't know what we may face in the Astral, but we could stop by Utilas' place and get some healing if you think we may have the time." He glances towards Ailif. "He may have some information on this Hunter and Huntress of which you speak as well." Kel is used to lying. He's done it over half his life.
Ailif settles into the chair and sighs. She looks between the female and the male and then says, "If you don't mind, I'd like to take a small bit of time to pray. If I do so, I may have some spells that could help with healing and such. At least until I find who I'm looking for." Ailif recieves no arguments to the contrary, and settles into a nearby corner to pray. Both for spells, and for guidance in finding who she is looking for, since it seems her time here may be running short.
Kel watches the woman settle in to pray, and draws Miri off to the side, using hand gestures so as not to attract attention. "So, what do you think? I wonder if she's really looking for us, or if this might be some trick..." He pauses and then continues, "And did Momma say anything to you about a key? Do you have any idea what she was talking about?"
Kel sighs. "Well, we can't stay here long." he says. "There's no telling when Talathorn might be back." He pauses for a second before continuing. "I don't know what we may face in the Astral, but we could stop by Utilas' place and get some healing if you think we may have the time." He glances towards Ailif. "He may have some information on this Hunter and Huntress of which you speak as well." Kel is used to lying. He's done it over half his life.
Ailif settles into the chair and sighs. She looks between the female and the male and then says, "If you don't mind, I'd like to take a small bit of time to pray. If I do so, I may have some spells that could help with healing and such. At least until I find who I'm looking for." Ailif recieves no arguments to the contrary, and settles into a nearby corner to pray. Both for spells, and for guidance in finding who she is looking for, since it seems her time here may be running short.
Kel watches the woman settle in to pray, and draws Miri off to the side, using hand gestures so as not to attract attention. "So, what do you think? I wonder if she's really looking for us, or if this might be some trick..." He pauses and then continues, "And did Momma say anything to you about a key? Do you have any idea what she was talking about?"
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 07:37 16 Oct 2002
Miri shakes her head, "Momma hasn't said anything directly to me about a key. At least, not that I recall." The tiefling ponders for a moment, then continues to sign, "But the woman must be the key that she was talking about. The only other things that we brought back from Seragas' were the crystals, and we left those behind. If Momma had wanted those safeguarded, she would've made sure we didn't leave without them. I wonder, though, what she is a key to?"
Unconsciously, Miri leans into Kel slightly as she converses, drawing comfort from his closeness. She turns and watches as the young priestess prays to some unknown god or goddess. When they had found her, she had been stripped of all items, including the holy symbol that would've revealed her loyalty. Her brow furrowed, Miri signs to Kel, "She's Faerunian, though. I recognize the speech pattern. Perhaps she is caught up in the fight on that Prime since she did speak of helping to defeat a great evil. I think I told you about that when we first met. About the paladin who must fight an ancestor who has risen in a new, evil form? Palskane, his name is." Miri glances to her backpack and then grins. "Let's set her up to a small test, shall we? I believe that one of the books that Utilas lent us was written by a Palskane. I wonder how she'll react when she sees it? It may mean nothing to her or it could mean everything. How she reacts, or doesn't, should give us some bit of insight into her." Leaving Kel's side for a moment, Miri digs quietly through her pack until she locates the appropriate tome, which she sets out upon a table for the woman to find along with the other volumes and a couple of miscellanous, personal items, arranging them a bit haphazardly to make it appear as if they were pulled out of her pack to gain access to something else. It would seem odd for it to just be lying out, neither Kel nor Miri perusing them.
Following that, Miri pulls out her own spellbook and taps the cover. "I think this is a good time for me to rememorize, too, love."
Miri shakes her head, "Momma hasn't said anything directly to me about a key. At least, not that I recall." The tiefling ponders for a moment, then continues to sign, "But the woman must be the key that she was talking about. The only other things that we brought back from Seragas' were the crystals, and we left those behind. If Momma had wanted those safeguarded, she would've made sure we didn't leave without them. I wonder, though, what she is a key to?"
Unconsciously, Miri leans into Kel slightly as she converses, drawing comfort from his closeness. She turns and watches as the young priestess prays to some unknown god or goddess. When they had found her, she had been stripped of all items, including the holy symbol that would've revealed her loyalty. Her brow furrowed, Miri signs to Kel, "She's Faerunian, though. I recognize the speech pattern. Perhaps she is caught up in the fight on that Prime since she did speak of helping to defeat a great evil. I think I told you about that when we first met. About the paladin who must fight an ancestor who has risen in a new, evil form? Palskane, his name is." Miri glances to her backpack and then grins. "Let's set her up to a small test, shall we? I believe that one of the books that Utilas lent us was written by a Palskane. I wonder how she'll react when she sees it? It may mean nothing to her or it could mean everything. How she reacts, or doesn't, should give us some bit of insight into her." Leaving Kel's side for a moment, Miri digs quietly through her pack until she locates the appropriate tome, which she sets out upon a table for the woman to find along with the other volumes and a couple of miscellanous, personal items, arranging them a bit haphazardly to make it appear as if they were pulled out of her pack to gain access to something else. It would seem odd for it to just be lying out, neither Kel nor Miri perusing them.
Following that, Miri pulls out her own spellbook and taps the cover. "I think this is a good time for me to rememorize, too, love."
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 00:40 18 Oct 2002
Ailif prays to Sune, hoping that her goddess hears her prayer. There is so much riding on what she is able to accomplish here. She must find the Hunter and Huntress if her Victor is to live. There is no other way. These two have helped her, but she is afraid that unless she finds who she seeks that their efforts to save her will be in vain. She is faintly aware as a nearby pack is rummaged through, and she glances upwards to see the slender female retrieving a spell book from her pack. Ailif shuts her eyes and goes back to her meditation.
Kel nods at Miri's plan, hoping that it works. He remembers her mentioning a Palskane, though the details she gave him are sketchy. It seems like so long ago that they first met. Yet, so much has happened in that relatively short amount of time. Kel smiles and settles into a chair across from his Huntress, smiling as he watches her. After a few moments he pulls out his own spellbook and goes over the furmulae for the energies he wishes to harness in his mind. He is not nearly as experienced as Miri, however, and finishes well before her. It is about this time that the red-haired woman sighs, stretches, and stands up.
Ailif stretches, and can feel within herself that, indeed, Sune has heard her prayers and granted her a small bit of her divine power for the day. Or at least some deity has. Ailif can see that the female is memorizing spells from a book. She has seen that before, and knows that the woman must be a mage of some sort. The predatory man leans back comfortably in his chair, his right hand resting easily upon the hilt of his weapon. He watches her as she walks over, and she manages a small smile. "I'm not sure I ever thanked you." Ailif says, and the man tilts his head in acknowledgment. Ailif is about to say something else when one of the books upon the table catches her attention. At least the name of the author on the cover does. Palskane.
Grabbing the book from the table, and not caring if she interrupts or not, Ailif cries, "Where did you get this?! Who gave this to you?!" She can feel her heart jumping in her chest, and she blurts out, "Who are you people? What do you know about my Victor?"
Ailif prays to Sune, hoping that her goddess hears her prayer. There is so much riding on what she is able to accomplish here. She must find the Hunter and Huntress if her Victor is to live. There is no other way. These two have helped her, but she is afraid that unless she finds who she seeks that their efforts to save her will be in vain. She is faintly aware as a nearby pack is rummaged through, and she glances upwards to see the slender female retrieving a spell book from her pack. Ailif shuts her eyes and goes back to her meditation.
Kel nods at Miri's plan, hoping that it works. He remembers her mentioning a Palskane, though the details she gave him are sketchy. It seems like so long ago that they first met. Yet, so much has happened in that relatively short amount of time. Kel smiles and settles into a chair across from his Huntress, smiling as he watches her. After a few moments he pulls out his own spellbook and goes over the furmulae for the energies he wishes to harness in his mind. He is not nearly as experienced as Miri, however, and finishes well before her. It is about this time that the red-haired woman sighs, stretches, and stands up.
Ailif stretches, and can feel within herself that, indeed, Sune has heard her prayers and granted her a small bit of her divine power for the day. Or at least some deity has. Ailif can see that the female is memorizing spells from a book. She has seen that before, and knows that the woman must be a mage of some sort. The predatory man leans back comfortably in his chair, his right hand resting easily upon the hilt of his weapon. He watches her as she walks over, and she manages a small smile. "I'm not sure I ever thanked you." Ailif says, and the man tilts his head in acknowledgment. Ailif is about to say something else when one of the books upon the table catches her attention. At least the name of the author on the cover does. Palskane.
Grabbing the book from the table, and not caring if she interrupts or not, Ailif cries, "Where did you get this?! Who gave this to you?!" She can feel her heart jumping in her chest, and she blurts out, "Who are you people? What do you know about my Victor?"
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 08:40 18 Oct 2002
At Ailif’s outburst, Miri looks up from her tome, the spell she had been attempting to memorize disrupted and lost. Blinking, she gathers her thoughts as one startled out of deep concentration and looks over at Kel, who is already assessing the situation and starting to speak. Unfortunately, she was so deeply involved in studying that she did not catch exactly what the priestess had said. The tiefling closes her spellbook and listens intently to what is about to transpire, her lost spell of little consequence.
Smoothly, Kel looks over at Ailif, unruffled by her sudden outcry, and says, “Nothing, really. All of these books part of are a set, each one written by a hero of a different land. We bought them at a local antiquities shop.” He idly picks up a couple and reads the names off of them and their associated home. “Vorthul Tyrest of Athas, Ishya Hikatomi of Rokugan…,” he places each book aside as he speaks, adding, “I have yet to be able to actually read any of them. Our time has been a bit pressed lately.” He watches closely as Ailif clutches the Faerunian book in white-knuckled hands, her gaze darting back and forth between himself and Miri. Obviously, they have touched upon a nerve.
“My Victor,” she had said. Kel turns that subtle phrase over in his mind. She used the possessive, much in the same way that he would speak of Miri. Plus, she had said, “There is a great evil threatening my land. I'm trying to help my love in his quest to put an end to it.” My Victor. My love. Kel can only conclude that the two are one and the same. Victor Palskane. It would seem to be a fair assumption considering the way she is reacting. The assassin considers his next phrase carefully, knowing that the next few minutes could determine whether they have met enemy or ally. Should the woman decide that he and Miri are a threat to her chances of getting back to her beloved and completing this mission she spoke of, they could have a fight on their hands. Also, the petite woman has just finished praying for spells. She will have new weapons at her disposal should she feel threatened by the two of them.
Miri leans forward, her elbows resting upon the table. Her brow furrows as she tries to recall whether or not Palskane had said anything about a wife or girlfriend. However, she does not. Their time travelling together had been short and the two had been on only tolerable terms. While neither had been hostile towards the other, there was just enough difference of opinion to keep them from becoming chummy with one another and simply talking about everyday life. She sighs inwardly, feeling that it has been ages since that day when she had returned home and received Palskane’s visit to her secluded, peaceful tower. Right now, she wishes nothing more than to take Kel back there and settle in to live in quiet love. However, that will have to wait.
Carefully, Miri says, “I know that there is a Victor Palskane on Faerun who is questing to destroy an ancient enemy of the Land.” The statement and her voice are neutral, a simple voicing of a known fact containing no bias. The tiefling is not yet ready to reveal their loyalties in case Ailif is unwittingly playing them into a trap.
At Ailif’s outburst, Miri looks up from her tome, the spell she had been attempting to memorize disrupted and lost. Blinking, she gathers her thoughts as one startled out of deep concentration and looks over at Kel, who is already assessing the situation and starting to speak. Unfortunately, she was so deeply involved in studying that she did not catch exactly what the priestess had said. The tiefling closes her spellbook and listens intently to what is about to transpire, her lost spell of little consequence.
Smoothly, Kel looks over at Ailif, unruffled by her sudden outcry, and says, “Nothing, really. All of these books part of are a set, each one written by a hero of a different land. We bought them at a local antiquities shop.” He idly picks up a couple and reads the names off of them and their associated home. “Vorthul Tyrest of Athas, Ishya Hikatomi of Rokugan…,” he places each book aside as he speaks, adding, “I have yet to be able to actually read any of them. Our time has been a bit pressed lately.” He watches closely as Ailif clutches the Faerunian book in white-knuckled hands, her gaze darting back and forth between himself and Miri. Obviously, they have touched upon a nerve.
“My Victor,” she had said. Kel turns that subtle phrase over in his mind. She used the possessive, much in the same way that he would speak of Miri. Plus, she had said, “There is a great evil threatening my land. I'm trying to help my love in his quest to put an end to it.” My Victor. My love. Kel can only conclude that the two are one and the same. Victor Palskane. It would seem to be a fair assumption considering the way she is reacting. The assassin considers his next phrase carefully, knowing that the next few minutes could determine whether they have met enemy or ally. Should the woman decide that he and Miri are a threat to her chances of getting back to her beloved and completing this mission she spoke of, they could have a fight on their hands. Also, the petite woman has just finished praying for spells. She will have new weapons at her disposal should she feel threatened by the two of them.
Miri leans forward, her elbows resting upon the table. Her brow furrows as she tries to recall whether or not Palskane had said anything about a wife or girlfriend. However, she does not. Their time travelling together had been short and the two had been on only tolerable terms. While neither had been hostile towards the other, there was just enough difference of opinion to keep them from becoming chummy with one another and simply talking about everyday life. She sighs inwardly, feeling that it has been ages since that day when she had returned home and received Palskane’s visit to her secluded, peaceful tower. Right now, she wishes nothing more than to take Kel back there and settle in to live in quiet love. However, that will have to wait.
Carefully, Miri says, “I know that there is a Victor Palskane on Faerun who is questing to destroy an ancient enemy of the Land.” The statement and her voice are neutral, a simple voicing of a known fact containing no bias. The tiefling is not yet ready to reveal their loyalties in case Ailif is unwittingly playing them into a trap.
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 21:13 18 Oct 2002
"Victor?!" Ailif says, the strength in her voice surprising even her. "You know my Victor?" The book is slammed down on the tabel as Ailif leans over and looks at Miri intently. "What do you know of him? How did you learn of him?" The red-haired woman seems frantic to know, and the concern upon her face cannot be denied.
Kel partially stands as Ailif leans towards his love, and a slight gesture from Miri makes him sit back down.
"Victor?!" Ailif says, the strength in her voice surprising even her. "You know my Victor?" The book is slammed down on the tabel as Ailif leans over and looks at Miri intently. "What do you know of him? How did you learn of him?" The red-haired woman seems frantic to know, and the concern upon her face cannot be denied.
Kel partially stands as Ailif leans towards his love, and a slight gesture from Miri makes him sit back down.
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 09:58 19 Oct 2002
Miri raises an eyebrow, "One could scarcely be living in Faerun and not know of the struggle that is taking place there, nor know of the people involved." Miri looks at Ailif and sees the concern etched upon the woman's face. It is something that cannot be ignored nor be faked. The tiefling knows that were she separated from Kel, she would worry thus, as well. And so, her voice comes out a bit softer this time, more understanding...at least to Kel's ears which are used to Miri's odd, rasping tone... when she says, "Awhile back, Palskane was investigating several murders that had taken place in a town near my home. What he found brought him to my doorstep for one of the murdered people was my own apprentice. After that, we travelled together for a short while as I tried to assist him with his own quest. However, it became quite apparent that I was useless in this fight. I couldn't even touch the creatures that he was fighting." Miri shakes her head, "I don't recall what they were called now, but I couldn't tell whether they were undead or some sort of demon. And, so, I came here to see what could be done to further the fight from this end. Perhaps I could find the Anti-Prophet's tap to the Negative Energy plane and sever or taint it in some way, denying the creature power that way. When I left his company, he was in Archenbridge, travelling with a young man named Yandrin."
Miri raises an eyebrow, "One could scarcely be living in Faerun and not know of the struggle that is taking place there, nor know of the people involved." Miri looks at Ailif and sees the concern etched upon the woman's face. It is something that cannot be ignored nor be faked. The tiefling knows that were she separated from Kel, she would worry thus, as well. And so, her voice comes out a bit softer this time, more understanding...at least to Kel's ears which are used to Miri's odd, rasping tone... when she says, "Awhile back, Palskane was investigating several murders that had taken place in a town near my home. What he found brought him to my doorstep for one of the murdered people was my own apprentice. After that, we travelled together for a short while as I tried to assist him with his own quest. However, it became quite apparent that I was useless in this fight. I couldn't even touch the creatures that he was fighting." Miri shakes her head, "I don't recall what they were called now, but I couldn't tell whether they were undead or some sort of demon. And, so, I came here to see what could be done to further the fight from this end. Perhaps I could find the Anti-Prophet's tap to the Negative Energy plane and sever or taint it in some way, denying the creature power that way. When I left his company, he was in Archenbridge, travelling with a young man named Yandrin."
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 02:27 21 Oct 2002
"You?!" Ailif says. "That was you?" The priestess almost cannot believe what she is hearing. Looking at the slender woman seated before her, she wonders why she was ever fearful of what her love may be doing with this woman. She's both relieved and appalled. She remembers Victor saying the name "Yandrin", and that was a few months ago. Evidently, a lot has happened since then.
She looks at the slender woman in a new light as she asks, "You came here.... to help my Victor?"
New hope sparks in her as she realizes that this must be true. These two saved her, and they're helping her Victor. If all of this is true, then maybe finding whom she seeks won't be so tough after all! She manages a smile, and it is one she has not had in a few days. A smile of hope.
--
Kel watches the interaction between his Miri and the red-haired woman. Curious himself, the assassin leans back in his chair and listens.
"You?!" Ailif says. "That was you?" The priestess almost cannot believe what she is hearing. Looking at the slender woman seated before her, she wonders why she was ever fearful of what her love may be doing with this woman. She's both relieved and appalled. She remembers Victor saying the name "Yandrin", and that was a few months ago. Evidently, a lot has happened since then.
She looks at the slender woman in a new light as she asks, "You came here.... to help my Victor?"
New hope sparks in her as she realizes that this must be true. These two saved her, and they're helping her Victor. If all of this is true, then maybe finding whom she seeks won't be so tough after all! She manages a smile, and it is one she has not had in a few days. A smile of hope.
--
Kel watches the interaction between his Miri and the red-haired woman. Curious himself, the assassin leans back in his chair and listens.
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 07:28 21 Oct 2002
Miri pretends not to notice the the combination of relief and disgust that mixes in Ailif's features and tone of voice. The tiefling grew used to that reaction from people long ago. "Trying to, at least," she answers. "However, there is a bit more at stake than I think he may realize. But, before I go into that, I wouldn't mind knowing who you are and how you fit into all of this."
Miri pretends not to notice the the combination of relief and disgust that mixes in Ailif's features and tone of voice. The tiefling grew used to that reaction from people long ago. "Trying to, at least," she answers. "However, there is a bit more at stake than I think he may realize. But, before I go into that, I wouldn't mind knowing who you are and how you fit into all of this."
Lapis Blue - by Haruchai on 01:17 22 Oct 2002
Ailif nods at the woman's request. It is only right that she explain who she is. With a sigh she says, "My name is Nyrissa Ailif. Victor is my betrothed." She takes a seat in one of the nearby chairs. "We met at the Bastion, though that seems like so many years ago." She pauses then continues, "He left one day, with hardly an explanation. I have only since found out, in my own quest to find him, the severity of the task he faces. He knows the dangers." Before she can help herself, her greatest fear is said. "You do know that if he succeeds, then he must perish?"
As the slender woman answers her, Ailif looks at her, willing her goddess to give her the sight she has used so many times. It is as she thought. This woman is in love. Ailif finds her gaze straying to the lean man close at hand. "He's driven by something." Ailif thinks to herself. With a start she realizes that this man is also in love. Then, she sees it. The faint aura, some silver strand connecting the two. Inwardly she smiles. "So that's it then." she thinks, "These two are mated." As she peers closer, however, she sees that something.... some indescribable force, will end their love. And soon.
----
Kel continues to listen, not truly caring one way or the other who this woman is, as long as she may be able to help them in the Astral. If she truly is the betrothed of the one who fights on Faerun... He doesn't let himself finish the thought. "No wonder everybody is after her." he thinks. "Things just keep getting better and better." He goes back to listening.
Ailif nods at the woman's request. It is only right that she explain who she is. With a sigh she says, "My name is Nyrissa Ailif. Victor is my betrothed." She takes a seat in one of the nearby chairs. "We met at the Bastion, though that seems like so many years ago." She pauses then continues, "He left one day, with hardly an explanation. I have only since found out, in my own quest to find him, the severity of the task he faces. He knows the dangers." Before she can help herself, her greatest fear is said. "You do know that if he succeeds, then he must perish?"
As the slender woman answers her, Ailif looks at her, willing her goddess to give her the sight she has used so many times. It is as she thought. This woman is in love. Ailif finds her gaze straying to the lean man close at hand. "He's driven by something." Ailif thinks to herself. With a start she realizes that this man is also in love. Then, she sees it. The faint aura, some silver strand connecting the two. Inwardly she smiles. "So that's it then." she thinks, "These two are mated." As she peers closer, however, she sees that something.... some indescribable force, will end their love. And soon.
----
Kel continues to listen, not truly caring one way or the other who this woman is, as long as she may be able to help them in the Astral. If she truly is the betrothed of the one who fights on Faerun... He doesn't let himself finish the thought. "No wonder everybody is after her." he thinks. "Things just keep getting better and better." He goes back to listening.
Lapis Blue - by Arislyn on 08:07 22 Oct 2002
Miri shakes her head, "No. I had not realized it was a certainty. I knew there was a chance he could die in the quest, but that chance exists for each person each day they live." For one, brief moment, a pang of sympathy wends it's way through Miri's heart, though she hides it well behind her usual, indifferent demeanor. She almost glances at Kel, her own thoughts straying to what lies ahead for them, but keeps her gaze steady upon Ailif.
The tiefling says, "I'm sure he's aware of the danger of his own mission, but I'm not sure that he knows how it may affect what is happening here." Miri settles in and begins to speak, the topic one that she knows heart and soul, for it is something that Momma pounded into her from the moment she was old enough to begin to comprehend, "The cosmos must be essentially neutral to be healthy. That's not to say that good and evil, chaos and law are not needed and play no part. Rather, that it is the constant struggle of those forces that drives the cosmos. Without law, chaos becomes wanton destruction. Without chaos, law becomes uncompromising monotony. Good or evil without it's polar opposite is meaningless. And neutrality without any of the others becomes stagnation." She pauses and continues, "The Balance has been distrupted, Ailif. The forces of the cosmos are slipping steadily towards evil. The planes themselves are shifting so that those settlements that existed on the borders between neutral and evil territory are being swallowed up. Neutrality is disappearing. It is because that the Prime worlds are being corrupted to complete evil that this is happening. Each Prime is neutral and helps act as a buffer between the other forces of good, evil, law and chaos."
"I am sure you are wondering what that has to do with Palskane," Miri says. "You see, whatever is doing this is achieving it's goal by using the Astral Plane to reach all of the Primes. There are very few Prime worlds that you can reach other Primes from....but Toril is one of them. The force that is at work in the Astral is also working through Faerun. It must be destroyed in both places or else it can simply retreat and recuperate to attack again. If Toril falls, the evil can continue to spread to other realms."
Miri shakes her head, "No. I had not realized it was a certainty. I knew there was a chance he could die in the quest, but that chance exists for each person each day they live." For one, brief moment, a pang of sympathy wends it's way through Miri's heart, though she hides it well behind her usual, indifferent demeanor. She almost glances at Kel, her own thoughts straying to what lies ahead for them, but keeps her gaze steady upon Ailif.
The tiefling says, "I'm sure he's aware of the danger of his own mission, but I'm not sure that he knows how it may affect what is happening here." Miri settles in and begins to speak, the topic one that she knows heart and soul, for it is something that Momma pounded into her from the moment she was old enough to begin to comprehend, "The cosmos must be essentially neutral to be healthy. That's not to say that good and evil, chaos and law are not needed and play no part. Rather, that it is the constant struggle of those forces that drives the cosmos. Without law, chaos becomes wanton destruction. Without chaos, law becomes uncompromising monotony. Good or evil without it's polar opposite is meaningless. And neutrality without any of the others becomes stagnation." She pauses and continues, "The Balance has been distrupted, Ailif. The forces of the cosmos are slipping steadily towards evil. The planes themselves are shifting so that those settlements that existed on the borders between neutral and evil territory are being swallowed up. Neutrality is disappearing. It is because that the Prime worlds are being corrupted to complete evil that this is happening. Each Prime is neutral and helps act as a buffer between the other forces of good, evil, law and chaos."
"I am sure you are wondering what that has to do with Palskane," Miri says. "You see, whatever is doing this is achieving it's goal by using the Astral Plane to reach all of the Primes. There are very few Prime worlds that you can reach other Primes from....but Toril is one of them. The force that is at work in the Astral is also working through Faerun. It must be destroyed in both places or else it can simply retreat and recuperate to attack again. If Toril falls, the evil can continue to spread to other realms."