When RP takes control IC thread

[PhoenixPrime01]

OOC: forgive the interruption and ignore it please but I've never had the chance to make a 1,000th post before. *L* Thanks.

 

[katalynn]

Athyna had settled herself down after a few moments, stopping when she heard Thalryns' voice. At first all she could see was the way he was treating the beast in her hands, how she was unable to stop him. Then, she realized that he could barely look at her in return, aplogizing to Kryss as if Athyna had done him wrong in his test. She didn't want to think anymore of it.
Giving the cat a final hug before she stood,

"I do feel the peace in here, though I do not know how much rest I will recieve right now. That test has a way of making a person think."

Lowered her gaze from the rest of the group, still unsure of how to handle Kryss now, did she still want to see Kryss fall? Or did that test weaken her? Athyna wasn't sure of what she felt anymore, but that test did indeed do something to her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kryss found herself in Kyles arms almost the instant he came through the gates, barely heard his words, just felt wonderful to see him and feel him in her arms. In the test she had killed him while killing Avrice, in the process killing herself. It was the only way she was able to save everyone and getting rid of him.

"I will not allow anything to hurt you.... I love you..."

She whispered just before they started to walk off to the valley. She heard Doms' words about finding a way out of this place.

"Are you even sure this is still a game? So much as changed, and so much time as gone by... I know it doesn't feel like one anymore."

Wasn't sure of what else to say, she held Kyles' hand tightly, not to tightly, it was enough to let him know she is never going to let him go. She would kill herself before letting anything like that happen to him. That test had proven that.

 

[Armphid]

Kyle

The black haired martial artist gave Kryss's hand a reassuring squeeze. "I thinkI understand Athyna." "Just don't dwell on it too much." He nodded approvingly. "You made it through...that means you had to face a deficiency and grow past it." "It speaks well of you, of all of us, really." He recalled that he had nearly not passed his trial. "It'll be a reminder to me too...of my greatest weakness."

The party walked for a time, enjoying the serenity and beauty of their surroundings. The trees here were old and strong, yet held none of the decrepit or dark gloom that old trees often did. The paths were small and carefully maintained, interfering as little as possible with the nature around them. Several times they caem across small ponds of clear spring water, and once a small creek with a wonderfully crafted wooden bridge.

Across the bridge, a short distance away, the roofs of a large village could be seen. Smoke curled up from many chimneys, and there was the faint noise of folk going about their daily business. Kyle smiled, "Well...this is the main settlement, though there are smaller hamlets throughout the valley." "This is what we came for."

 

[Tantrikenetic]

Dominic

The pain in my head nearly vanished completely as I saw the sight around me. It was a beautiful village and it felt so welcoming, I thought I was home again.

"Wow..." I mumbled to myself. "This is amazing...How can all of this be growing so high up in the mountains?"

As we approached the gate to the town, two men in monk robes greeted us. They both bowed gracefully. "Hello. We have been expecting you. Please come in and make yourselves at home."

 

[Armphid]

Kyle

Kyle smiled at Dominic's amazement. "Magic, Dominic." "This valley is one of the most powerful magic spots in the world." He pointed toward a spike of crystal that jutted out of the ground not far away. "Those crystals are sort of...solidified magic...from what I've been told." "They "grow" all over here...the first settlers bent that power to thier will, and have it locked down now." "That's why this is the only truly impregnable place, only truly safe place, that there is." "Nothing can match the power of the valley."

Then the monks appeared, bowing elegently. Kyle returned his own bow, noting how the two men moved. "Hmmm....The Green Style...I think." "Principle of Resistence." "Interesting."

The party was ushered into town. The buildings were not what the tranquil surrounding made one expect. Instead of thatched roof cottages, solid homes of stone and crystal spread out before them. The architecture was a a mix of human Chinese design, along with elements of elven and dwarven architecture. Into every home was built at least one of the glittering cyrstals, making the entire town seem to shine in vary-colored light.

The two kind looking monks lead the companions to a medium size pagoda decorated in red and white. Illustrations of the party's exploits and journey adorned it's surface, some Kyle recognized as being Jasleth's from well before he had met any of the others. The elder of the two gestured to the building. "This is your home." "It has been prepared and freshy stocked with provisions." "Should you require anything not within, you should be able to get it in town." "We have goods and services from all over the world."

The other monk opened the double doors for them, leading them into a small courtyard. "This place is yours." "Now, and whenever you come to us in the future." "We know you are weary from your test, and from the toil that has come before." "The Sages will be ready to meet with you whenever you wish, if you would like to recover your strength first, it is no trouble to us."

 

[NyghtRayne]

Skyler

She looked around as she followed the others, the valley was wonderful and calming, except for the fact that right now it was very early in the morning and the sun would be rising. She could feel it and the fear inside of her as well. She was still shaken from the test and needed nurishment and rest.

She saw the drawings of the group before and after they had met and joined together. It was if it was a pictured log of each of their times online, hers was not all that pretty as being a hired killer was not always the prettiest of roles to play.

There was something that caught her eye just before the double doors were opened, part of her online life so to speak. She caught a glimpse of her, she thought, a glimpse of her and Dominic, there were horses, but when she went to look closer it was gone.

She turned then and followed the others inside. "I know I need some rest and the sun is rising, I need to sleep.I know we need to see the Sages, but it should be able to wait a few hours." She wasn't sure the others would want to wait, but the higher the sun crept into the sky and the sky began to lighten, she could feel herself slipping away into sleep. She started to move to the nearest couch and took a step or two, the her footsteps wavered and she stumbled.

 

[Tantrikenetic]

Dominic

"I could use some rest too." I agreed. "Let's get some sleep." I was only half paying attention as I scanned the pictures of my time on the pagoda. The meeting with Slip, his first battle, and when he met his friends. There was a particularly vivid image of me getting my bones torn from my leg and I quickly looked away.

"The sages have apparently been waiting a while. I don't think a few more hours will matter too much." I walked into the pagoda and looked around. THe warmth of the sun was beginning to remind me of how long it has been since we last slept.

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Zhu

Well!

This new day had found her in a new town, with new morons traveling in parties. Sometimes she wondered why the hell that Rping would help her write pornos, but then again, she hadn’t been in the game all that long. This is what an artist with a vision had to pay for. Behind her lurked the three constant shadows of Huozai, Shihou, and Lang, talking to themselves in whatever way they could, considering that, well, Shihou couldn’t really talk. Crossing her arms, she looked out into the open, her silver earring catching the light. In order to fit in a bit better, she had pulled up her wild hair in a series of braids, and wrapped a dark violet cloth about her forehead to keep the torrent of hair from falling into her face. Drumming her fingers against the counter of her stand, she whistled for a moment.

Across the counter lay different items, jewelry, makeups, musical instruments. The sort of trinkets that would attract women and elves, really. She didn’t want to have the makeup, but Lang had insisted…the same way that he often insisted that he wasn’t gay. Well, whatever floated his undead boat. There was really just no other work around for necromancers, and she was beginning to wonder if she had made a wrong selection when she was starting to play. No matter.

Sitting down, she pulled free her rapier, and began to idly polish the gem in the hilt, waiting for someone to come by. Near her hand burned a small stick of incense. It was something she had made herself - it usually helped control the smell of the undead, but she had to admit, her zombies were of a rare breed. No decay, no smell, no nothing. Hell, one could hardly tell they were dead unless they touched one or something. But hell, the best had created them: her.

 

[Xenocide_613]

Thalryn

Thalryn could literally see the magic in the air, such was the power of the place. It was…intoxicating to have that much magic surrounding everything. The smell of it was making him rather giddy. He had to resist the urge to cast a spell just to see how easy it was here.

Thalryn admired the detail that had gone in to the wall. He smiled as he gazed at his home city, then looked farther down to an amazing rendering of Seth at the end of his blades. He couldn’t help but smile. The look on Seth’s face was perfect, exactly how he remembered. He chuckled a bit, and Elistraee’s laughter joined his in his mind. The ferret was perched precariously on his shoulder, and her black fur stood on end as she took in a picture of Avrice, Seth, and Soleil in front of the tree of death in the Beolve Castle courtyard. The elf shuddered, but even that memory couldn’t deter his mood.

He looked to Athyna with a twinkle in his emerald eyes. He strode up beside her and smiled warmly. “What happened in the tests is behind us. It is not who we are. I apologize for acting a bit…coldly to you when I emerged. I was shaken, and I regret taking it out on you. Forgive me, m’lady.”

Thalryn reached out and caught Skyler as she stumbled. He turned to a worried Dominic and spoke. “The magic here may sustain her, but she is still used to sleeping during the day. A few hours rest and she should be fine. The rest of you can rest if you wish. As for me, my innately elven sense of adventure beckons. I’m off to explore.”

The elf stayed long enough to stow his gear, including his twin blades. He was rather impulsive, and he didn’t want to instinctively draw and be fried on the spot. With magic so thick in the air, there was no telling how he’d react to the place’s defenses.

He left quickly, Elistraee perched on his left shoulder. He rounded the corner and noticed what seemed to be a marketplace. He strode by the different stalls, a smile never far from his lips as he politely rejected the calls from the vendors. He strode by a woman vendor dressed in white over black. He briefly looked over her wares, but what caught his eye was the woman’s rapier.

“Your sword is exquisite, madam. Is that a bloodstone in the hilt?” The woman looked up, revealing gleaming eyes as red as the stone she polished. She eyed him from head to toe, as if appraising him. Thalryn quickly diverted his gaze from the vendor’s, letting his eyes wander to a mithral lyre she had for sale. “Do you make these yourself?” he inquired, again meeting her powerful gaze.

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Zhu and Lang

Whoa.

Major cutie. She wanted to bite the tips of his ears.

Kind of like that elf guy in the movies…Huh. That was odd - already she had forgotten his name. Shaking her head slightly, she glanced up to the elf. The zombies behind her merely shifted. They knew to keep silent whenever she was speaking. She’d trained them well. She didn’t even have to look behind her to tell that the creatures were checking the elf out. As she shifted, the heavy silver buckles on her still hidden undersuit clanked slightly.

“No, it ain’t a bloodstone.” She shifted her weight, causing the buckles to chime once more. “It’s a fire gem to keep the undead in check.” As soon as the words left her lips, the three behind her shuddered, and the shortest one whined softly. “And no, I don’t make ‘em. He does.” She gestured to the shortest man behind her, with the light blue sash. The light caught his golden hoop.

“Would you like to buy it?” he asked, the hoop waving from side to side. On a closer inspection, the innermost whorls of his ear had been stitched closed, rendering him deaf to all appearances. But somehow, he was able to hear what she said to him. She kept her gaze down, trying not to stare at the handsome man. However, she was cheating - his reflection was perfect within the glimmering hilt. The man with the stitched up ears kept his eyes on the elf, drumming fine hands against the counter as he waited for the man’s answer. As he did so, the other two in the back glanced up, but continued to play at their game of cards.

Besides the girl, the incense deposited a small coil of ash.

 

[Xenocide_613]

Thalryn

Emerald eyes appraised the figure the vendor had appointed as the artisan. “It is brilliant work, sir. Reminds me of a piece my spellsong master owns.” He reached out tentatively, his fingers tracing the intricate runes etched into the metal. “May I?” he inquired, gesturing to the instrument. Before he received an answer the elf took up the lyre, strumming a chord to check the instrument’s tuning. The sound was exquisite, somehow lacking in the metallic edge that was common among many lyres. The absence of this timbre showed that the artisan was truly skillful.

Thalryn began to strum the opening to a slow ballad. He played gently, letting the notes cascade from the instrument in the style of a full harp. He closed his eyes as he played, allowing him to feel the notes that sounded from the lyre. He unconsciously began to sing along with the melody, lending the instrument his magic. The sound was mesmerizing. The passersby in the market stopped to hear the elf, such was the enchantment of his spellsong. The magic in the air responded, setting the elf aglow in fairie fire which danced along the elf’s hands and gave the sound form. The heatless fire swirled about the lyre, setting each note ablaze as it was sounded. The song climaxed with voice and lyre moving in slow counterpoint, and came to a heart wrenching end in a perfect authentic cadence with just a touch of dissonance in the last chord, defying resolution.

He opened his eyes as the last hints of the fairie fire died away. Applause rang out across the market place and startled the dazed elf into an awkward smile. So caught up in the song was he that he’d failed to notice he’d drawn an audience. The elf smiled a bit as he returned the lyre to the table. He leaned forward, drawing the vendor’s eyes up to his. “I’m sorry, m’lady, but I don’t think I caught your name.”

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Zhu and Lang

The three men had stopped from their card game, stopped from their checking of the wares. At the end of his song, all three applauded heartily, although not saying a word. The shortest one, the creator of the lyre, wiped tears from his ocean colored eyes. The young woman, however, hadn’t looked up from her sword. Not to say that she wasn’t moved, however.

“And why is it important? I doubt we’ll meet again.” She said at length, before lifting her eyes to the elf. “Do you wish to buy the lyre or not?”

If the elf wasn’t offended by her terse manner of speaking, then Lang was. He gasped, and lightly swatted her shoulder. “Don’t mind her, sire - she just has no tastes for the Arts. Please, take the lyre as a gift - my payment is hearing someone play it as well as you!”

At that, her eyes widened, and she tossed the rapier aside. “Lang, are you CRAZY?! If you continue to give away items just because some man has charmed you, then we’ll NEVER get any money! Hell, you don’t even know if he wants to buy it or not! Stop being such a fag and think realistically for once!” At her words, Lang squealed, and placed his hands on her hips. “If you would stop being such a hard up mega bitch, then you’d understand the beauty in the music! It speaks to me! Let him have the damn thing and I’ll make up for it!”

“You, make up for something like that?! Not with all the skill in the world. I swear, the only ones that pull any weight around here are Shihou and Huozai…” Hearing their names, the two men looked up, then continued at their card game, each smirking to themselves.

“Well, you can just go to hell. Sir, take the lyre, no charge.” The glitter in those ocean orbs spoke volumes, despite the overall coldness of the man’s face and body. She scowled, and flopped down. She would deal with him later…Or…Gesturing for Lang to look her way, she calmly slipped off part of her shirt, revealing a second skin leather garment beneath. Paling, Lang swallowed.

“Or…maybe…just a few gold pieces for it? Really, five…”

A cough from her as more of the shirt was pulled off.

“Or maybe fifteen,” he corrected himself.

 

[Xenocide_613]

Thalryn

The elf was a bit taken aback by the woman’s harsh manner, but he still smirked at her display with her servant. He bit his tongue to keep from laughing aloud.

“I did indeed wish to buy this marvelous piece. I thank you for your generosity. It is really worth no less than a hundred gold pieces.” He turned his eyes from the artisan to the vendor. “I couldn’t possibly take it for nothing though.” The elf absently rubbed the tip of his right ear, pondering a solution. “Tell you what, fair lady. I’ll give you fifty for the lyre, and fifty for your name” he said with a grin. “I think that is fair, do you not?”

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Zhu and Lang

Lang clapped his hands together eagerly. “See, see?! Everything works out when you’re NICE! Tell him your name and you get a hundred pieces.”

To answer him, she merely tapped the garnet in her silver hoop, causing him to fall into silence. “What I do and what I don’t do is entirely up to me, not to you.” She sighed. “Why do you always cause the most problems?! I never have any issues with Shihou or Huozai.” Turning her attention back to the mouth watering elf-good lord she would’ve liked to bite on his ears for a bit!-, she grumbled. “My name is not important. Just take the lyre and save yourself an extra fifty gold pieces.” Her ruby orbs [ for truly, they had the same deep cut and multi-faceted look to them, like a well cut ruby under a display light ] took him in once more, longingly. She probably wouldn’t see a man that good looking in a long time. If she was evil, she would make him spend the night with her, but there were already plenty of those sorts abounding - she’d discovered that much while she was here.

“Go on, just pay the fifty, and go on your way.” She glanced up at him, waiting for the money.

 

[Xenocide_613]

Thalryn & Elistraee

He grinned in resignation. “As you wish, m’lady.” He said. Deftly he untied a pouch from his belt containing a hundred gold and set it on the table next to the lyre as he picked up the instrument again.

“Sweet water and light laughter till next we meet.”

He’d played spellsong before with no ill effects, so he chanced it again. He began to play a soft, mysterious melody. As her hand hefted the pouch, she realized he’d doubled the price. She looked up from the pouch just in time to see the last hint of his emerald eyes fade from view as the melody ended.

Well, that was aweful nice of you Thal. Elistraee's voice sounded in his head.

She was intriguing. And the instrument could fetch double what I paid. There is power in that woman. She exudes it. Didn’t you see it in her eyes?

True. She does have a bit of fire in her eyes, I’ll give you that much.

Thalryn stowed the lyre in a bag of holding as he backed away from the astonished vendor. I wonder why she was so reluctant to give me her name, especially here. No harm can come to anyone here, or so Jas said.

Time will tell, Thal. I have a feeling we’ll see her again

Straee, I don’t like it when you have feelings.

Your just mad cause I’m always right.

The elf sighed silently. I’m glad we understand each other

The ferret turned her head and looked at him quizzically. Wait, huh?

As you said, time will tell.

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Zhu and her servants

Huh. A hundred gold coins. She stared down at the money, her mouth twisting lightly to the side. She hadn’t asked for that much. Gesturing the one with his mouth stitched up to her side, she handed him the extra fifty pieces. “Shihou, be a dear and return the elf his money. He overpaid. Oh, and give him this…” Fishing about, she pulled free three sticks of incense, and placed them in the money bag. “Tell him if he is need of my services, all he needs to do is burn a stick.” Shihou blinked, surprised that she would be making such a generous offer. His pale blue eyes searched her, trying to divulge what she was getting at. She said nothing more, but rubbed her chin lightly. From beneath the large billows of her white sleeves, rows of silver bracelets slid down her arm, settling against one another with a musical chime.

“What are you waiting for? Go before you lose him.” Without a second glance, Shihou took off after where the elf was. Lang glanced down at the seated woman, a large grin spreading across his face.

“I bet he likes you.”

“Your point?”

“You like him, huh?” He giggled, hugging his shoulders lightly. She rolled her eyes. Even among the undead, good help was hard to find. “Huozai, you got any wine left?”

“About a bottle.”

“Give it here. I need it.” Taking the bottle from his hand, she popped the cork and took a long swig, the dark liquid staining her lips. Setting it down, she fiddled with her bracelets. Across the rows glimmered an intricate pattern of the celestial bodies. She narrowed her eyes, and glanced off into the distance. From far away, she heard Huozai’s voice.

“I hope you dunn drink all of that - it’s mine!”

 

[Xenocide_613]

Thalryn

The gold elf faded to visibility some ten meters down the market. He turned to look back through the crowd and saw one of the vendor’s servants hot on his heels. He shrugged, at a loss for what to do. Elistraee squeaked in protest of the movement and settled back onto his shoulder.

Magic surrounded this man more than it did his mistress. Indeed, the magic seemed to flow through him. This place was truly amazing.

The man caught up to him rather quickly, his money pouch extended.

Thalryn held up his hands to ward him off. Tell your mistress no repayment is needed. I paid one hundred gold for the lyre, and I consider it a bargain. Even without her name.” he added.

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Shihou

Although he was mute without his mistress around, his eyes were vivid and expressive. Shihou was no idiot - he knew that the elf would more than likely not take the money. He opened the bag, and held out the incense, gesturing for the man to follow him. Kneeling, he wrote out a message in the dust, his handwriting fine and clear:

My mistress wishes for you to have these incense. If you are in need of her services, burn one. She also wishes you to have the money back, but seeing as you won’t take it, I will return it to her.

As he finished, he stood up, still holding out the incense.

 

[Xenocide_613]

Thalryn & Elistraee

The elf grinned as he took the incense. “You are most generous, sir. Thank your lady profusely for me. I will see her again.” He said as he turned away. “Soon.” He added over his shoulder.

Thal, did you see how his mouth was stitched shut???

I don’t pretend to judge the customs of others, Straee.

It just seems weird, no?

Again, not my place. We are strangers here. You’d do well to remember that.

I don’t like it

You’re entitled to your opinion

You know what I mean, Thal.

He sighed again as he sniffed the sticks. He inhaled…sandalwood. The corner of his mouth turned up slightly at the smell. Yes, Straee. I know what you mean.

The elf set off down the market. The euphoria of the magic was starting to fade, and he was beginning to feel weary. He turned down a side street and made for the pagoda.

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Zhu and her servants

As Shihou came running up, she stood.

Now within range of her once more, he was able to "speak". Catching his breath, he began:

"He took the incense, but would not take the money."

"He probably wants you to buy fancy underwear with it," quipped Lang.

She sighed. It wasn't like she needed the money - now she could look forward to taking a rest from her other job and getting something decent to eat. Maybe stay at an inn instead of camping out. Either way, the thought of a hot bath and a soft bed delighted her. Smiling a little, she pushed some of her hair back within the restraint of the violet cloth.

"Gentlemen, let's close up shop. It seems like we've got enough to take a small vacation. I say we go to an inn."

The three men nodded in unison, and began to pack up.
________________________________________________

A span of three hours later would find the quartet at the counter of the inn. The young woman behind the counter blanched at the individual stitchings of each young man, but said nothing. The keys given to Zhu, she headed up the stairs.

Once within her room, she undid her headwrap, allowing her hair to fall free. "Lang, run the bathwater, if you would."

She didn't have to ask again. As he set about heating the water, she unbraided parts of her hair, shaking free the silver ornaments within. Shihou held her hair away from her neck, brushing it slowly. Huozai set about getting her undressed, removing her boots, and then her ornate jewlery. As each man set about his task, she allowed her thoughts to go back to the handsome elf. Probably had women already after him, and one thing she did not need now was competition from some silly little wench. All she needed now was to gather more power...There still felt like there was some gap in her knowledge. Not that she could ask for better servants, though...She loved them all in her own little way.

She flinched as Huozai's cold hands slipped off her clothes, setting about undoing the multiple buckles of her suit beneath.

They were loyal, and had been converted of their own will. She knew that she couldn't force anyone to do anything - it would defeat the purpose of having a good servant, anyway. She bought them anything they wanted...But why was she trying to justify things to herself? She knew her reasons.

She was startled from her thoughts by Lang. "Your bath is ready, Zhu. Still thinking about that elf? Why didn't you just ask him to spend the night with you - I know that's what you were thinking." He grinned and winked at her.

Frowning, she glanced back to Shihou. He said nothing, but continued brushing the multicolored wave of her hair.

"Because."

"Because why?"

"I said so. Don't you have anything better to do than to question my sex life?"

"If you had one I wouldn't."

A slight chuckle from Shihou and Huozai, the latter having succeeded in stripping her naked. With a slight scowl, she stood up and stalked off into the bathroom. Approaching the deep curve of the white tub, she dipped her foot in. The water was nice...perfect, really. Stepping in, she quickly reclined in the warm substance with a sigh, closing her eyes.

Outside, she could hear them talking amongst themselves. Well, if only she knew what her next move was...

The garnet in her earring reflected dully under the waves.

 

[NyghtRayne]

Skyler

She was grateful for Thal's quick response as s he stumbled. SHe smiled abit as she offered a quiet thanks. She was easily led to the couch and in no time was asleep.
----------------

A few hours later, she was amazed to find herself awake and the sun still high in the sky. She looked about their sleeping quarters to find Dominic sleeping as well. She knew that all the companions were tired after the trek here, not counting that several of them did not get much sleep before they headed to Sanctuary.

She noticed that someone must have closed all the window coverings, the room was truly dark. There was a little slice of light slipping in through a very slightly parted window covering. She looked to the window and followed the shaft of light, she jumped back as she saw that it came across the room and settled across her legs.

She looked down, expecting pain, but found none, she followed the sun beam and found it had actually covered most of her sleeping form. She reached a hand out cautiously and let the light touch her pale... wait not so pale skin. This discovery concerned her, something was not right and that feeling was making her worry.

She looked back over to Dominic, who was sleeping peacefully, she stood and walked over towards him, she decided not to wake him and turned away. She walked quietly, so quietly that no one would have heard her footfalls, if they had been awake to hear them. She moved for the window, curious as to what would happen if she opened the curtain.

Her hand shook slightly as she reached for the edge of the material. She was definitely afraid, but not nearly as much as she had been in her test, the fear was there but only as a nagging feeling that she should be afraid. She hesitated as she took a hold of the material and just stood there momentarily.

She looked back to Dominic's sleeping form, and found herself unable to open the curtain. She let go of the fabric and moved back to the couch, she sat there quietly finding pleasure in simply watching Dominic sleep. She sat there and thought about their time here, she realised it didn't take her long to fall for him, she had never done that with anyone before. She knew deep down she could love this man..Dominic or James as she was finding it hard not to, there was just something about him.

She sat in thought was she watched him sleep and let her mind wander to everything that was happening to them, she found some memories very vivid and fresh in her memory, others were fleeting and the more she tried to remember them they drifted father out of her reach. She knew there was something she was a reason they had come here and Dominic had mentioned a game. She knew there was something she should remember about that, but the more she tried to think on it the faster it ran away.

She sat there in the darkeness, the quiet of the room calming her. She realized that there was a feeling nagging her inside, it was a familiar feeling and one she knew she would have to fight off for a time, she was hungry. The small pagoda was separated some into separate rooms for each seeming pair in the party. She and Dominic were together in one room.

She stood and wondered if there was a small kitchen type area where maybe, since the Sages seemed to be expecting them, she would be able to find her nurishment. She found the kitchen area but even though the Sages seemed prepared for their arrival there was nothing there she could use.

She moved back to the room where Dominic lay sleeping and sat back on the couch. She concentrated to fight the need growing with in her for the nurishment she needed. Dominic shifted on the bed in his sleep, changing position to get comfortable, and her eyes, even in the dark of the room was drawn straight to the pulsing vein in his throat.

She grabbed the couch and dug her nails in, her voice was hoarse when she was finally able to speak, "Dominic.... Dominic... please wake up..." then her voice lowered to a whisper, "please I do not want to do this.. I must fight it."

 

[Xenocide_613]

Thalryn

The gold elf eased the door to the pagoda open as quietly as he could, but the hinges gave a telltale creak. He absently looked in on Skyler and Dominic. His innate low light vision hadn’t fully adjusted to the near pitch black of the rooms, and he smiled at Skyler as she looked up. He casually waved a greeting, then turned and made for the room he shared with Athyna.

Emerald eyes fully adjusted, Thalryn gazed upon the maiden sleeping with the cat as a pillow. He sighed to himself as the cat flicked its tale and yawned. Such was the life of rangers. He carefully made his way to her side, trying to be as quiet as he could for fear of stirring the wood elf from reverie. He grinned at the cat, then lent down and gently kissed Athyna on the forehead.

He nodded to the cat, then turned and pulled the bag of holding from his tunic. He reached his arm all the way down into the impossibly small bag, then pulled out the lyre and set it down on a stand next to the bed. He then removed his tunic and boots and sat in a chair next to the bed, as the giant cat and she-elf left little room for him. Thalryn rocked back in the chair, folding his arms across his bronze chest as he watched Athyna sleep.

 

[katalynn]

Kryss didn't know if she was tired or amazed at the sights, in the distant there were drums. Wasn't sure if the others heard them or not, but they seemed to be calling her. The deep sounds of the heavy drums made want to go explore, find out where they were coming from, didn't seem as if they were in the markets area, maybe a little ways past. Either way they were calling her, it has been awhile since she danced for pleasure, just to dance.

Not really wanting to leave Kyle, those drums seem to be taunting her more and more. Sounds of happiness and joy seeped into her soul.

"I'm not very tired... There's something I wish to go check out. Though, I don't wish to leave you Kyle. Do you wish to come with me? Or do you also want some rest?"

When she looked up into his eyes, he could see that there was something that has excited her. It seemed strange that the others hadn't heard the drums, and if they did, didn't realize how much they would be calling Kryss. After all, she is dancer. And it seems like forever since she has heard the pleasing sounds of the drums.

"There is just to much see and do here. How could I possibly sleep now."

The beating of the sweet music seemed to drown all the sorrow, all the thoughts of the test, the past few days. Just seemed to move away with each beat, pounding all the negativity from her soul.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Athyna had been quiet most the time, not really dwelling on the test. Mostly in thought. She had saved Kryss for the test, would have been willing to hurt Thalryn to save the cat. It was to much to not think about it. Her loyalty for the gold elf was stronger, yet.... She almost had to reevaluate her plans, none of this was suppose to happen. Athyna had meant to join this party get close to Kryss, then when last expected and the most acceptable time. Watch Kryss as she falls. Easy.. Right?!?! Anymore, now that she has gotten to know her.. Mistake.. She didn't know why she was after Kryss anymore. It was nothing like she had expected, seemed like everything had changed.

Athyna and Thal had gotten a room, while he went exploring, she had freshened up a bit. Taking a wonderful bath, slipping into something light and comfortable just before laying on the bed. She hadn't realized how tired she was, didn't seemm like she wanted to sleep. Then when the cat came to lay next to her, his deep purr practically helped her ease into another world.
After about maybe an hour, she was deep into the reverie, everything coming at her at once, then nothing. Peace.

In the distant she felt the kiss on her forhead, but it was to distant for her to realize where that feeling came from. Though it did bring her much pleasure. The cat sensing the golden elfs weariness as he sat in the chair. Even the though the cat was comfortable, never was allowed to sleep in the bed, he reluctantly got off the bed and allowed room for the elf. To some people this may have been some mindless creature, but, being with Athyna, he understood things. Right now he understood that the elves have a higher place over him.
He looked up at Thalryn one last time before resting on the floor. Athyna felt the slight chill of the cats absence, didn't seem to wake her fully though as she reached for the blankets.

 

[Apollo Wilde]

Zhu and her servants

It would be some time later when she actually was roused from the tub. A dull tapping on the edge caused her to sit up, edges of her hair touching the surface of the water. Shihou stood above her, with a tray of food.

“It came just a few minutes ago.”

She nodded, and pulled herself from the warm bosom of the water. She had been careful enough to drape her hair outside, and as she stood, it clung to her wet body. Oh well. Holding out her arms, Huozai wrapped her in a robe, careful to pull her hair away. Lang dashed in a few moments later, his hands full with oils and a hair brush. With a sigh, she stepped from the tub, the white of her robe illuminating her dark skin. The garnet in her earring lit up for the shortest of moments, before dulling once more.

Stepping into the main room trailed by her servants, she sat down on the bed and began to eat, setting her tray down on her lap. Normally she conversed freely with her servants, but other thoughts had driven the woman into silence. The eldest of the three, Huozai, said nothing, but he could sense the unease from the other two. He sat behind her, resting his back against her own. Pausing in eating, she rubbed her chin with her index finger.

“Nothing seems to be happening here. I’ve gained no power….But I feel like there’s another…somewhere out there, that can grant my wishes. I obviously can’t join with a party - most of them are weak and spend too much time trying to get into each others pants to even be a decent slave to me.”

Just listening to her talk, the three undead nodded in their own time, keeping their thoughts to themselves. The food enticed them not - their only sustenance was granted from her magically. She continued to rub her chin as she continued to think aloud. “However, I am bound in service to that elf until he burns the incense. This is what comes from being too generous! Imagine, a necromancer at the hands of an elf.” She scowled slightly, and took a vicious stab at the fish on her plate before helping herself to it. “But, on the other hand, my services are granted for as long as the incense burns, giving him at best, an hour. An hour’s not enough to do anything too serious…”

She leaned back as Lang began to oil and brush her hair. She usually only trusted him to do so - he knew enough about beauty not to royally screw anything up. She glanced out the window. Sensing her thoughts, Huozai and Shihou smiled to themselves.

".........."

Not like she was in need of another servant - these three were more than satisfactory. If anything, she needed more money…But robbery was so crash. Really, was there anything interesting tonight in this little podunk town? It seemed as if Lang was the only one that really knew.

“I don’t know why you fools are getting excited - there’s hardly anything to be had in this town,” he snipped, gesturing at the older two with the hair brush. “If anything, there was that elf and the party he probably travels with, but we all know how ZHU doesn’t like to get involved unless it’s to her own interest.”

“And what’s wrong with that? I was like that when I was alive,” muttered Shihou as he polished the buckles on her suit.

“There’s nothing WRONG with it persay, but it does limit one’s social life considerably.”

“Look, we’ve all come to the conclusion that there’s nothing to do here. Why don’t we just spend the night and head out early in the morning for better parts?” Huozai finally grumbled. He tended to be the voice of reason.

“Why don’t I just feed you guys, and then we’ll come back and get some rest?” She finally said, tilting her head back to look at Huozai’s bulk. The red head looked down at her, and grinned. Lang eagerly finished brushing her hair, and let the rippling mass go, throwing his arms about her shoulders. She grinned, and patted his icy hands.

“So it’s decided. And people wonder why I became a necromancer. Living people are just so dull and...well, dull." She grinned as she stood up, gently slipping Lang's hands away to allow her freer movement. Her eyes settled on her leather suit, and she picked it up, beginning to squeeze her body into it. "This town is too little to start any real trouble, and even if I was into robbing, it's too little to have any decent money, either. You will feed, I will go about my own way. I've heard rumors about another necromancer. Maybe he'll be worth my time...." She shook her hair back as she pulled on black vinyl like gloves. The celestial bracelets clanged over it, as it melding it further to her body.

"Finally, someone worth my time."
_______________________________________________

About an hour later, the young woman at the counter glanced up to see the strange party heading down the stairs, Zhu in front, clad in her usual all white attire, and the three men, in their usual all black.

“We shall be returning later today. I expect no callers, and if any one has the audacity to ask where I went, tell them I move with the sun.”

With those cryptic words, Zhu and her entourage departed, her white cloak catching the sunlight. With her wares up, she would have a bit more time to see just what the crappy little town had to offer.

 

[Tantrikenetic]

Dominic

I groaned and sat up. "Skyler?" I asked, wiping my eyes. "Are you okay?" I let my eyes adjust and saw the look in her eyes. It was a familair look.

"Oh God..." I got up quickly. How long has it been since she fed? He couldn't remember her doing it at all since he was turned to stone. "Skyler...You need blood."

I moved to her quickly. I remembered how we did this. How we did this that night.

I searched my bag for a knife. "Just hold on...I can help you. You can drink from me." I tried to sound calm, but the thought of slicing my wrist again was beginning to fester in my head. "Ugh...no knives....Skyler, let me see your sword."