04-11-2013
Awakening
Samiyah woke on the floor of the Hall, her body wracked with chills, all the warmth drawn from it by the cold stones. Her knees were twin points of agony, having knelt for hours, waiting for Seraph to speak. He had simply sat in silence upon His throne, watching her, fingers tapping on the throne's arm, the weight of His disapproval like stones upon her back, pressing her face to the floor. No amount of rifting or shouting could have more clearly underscored that she had disappointed Him yet again with her unruly behavior. A spreading puddle of reeking piss nearby showed that Odie had lifted a leg to express his amusement with her disfavor. She hobbled clumsily over to the massive hearth, desperately seeking the comfort and healing of its warmth, but the roaring fire could not penetrate her aching bones and muscles. Images of the previous day flashed through her mind as she stared into the flames: confessing her wrong thinking to Ghazkull.. hearing of DarkClaw's perfidious actions.. her own worry that perhaps her curiosity about kissing might lead her down the same path of behavior DarkClaw had followed.. her revulsion and fear of Venom.. the bout of tears outside the Coral Cave.. the painstakingly crafted words torn into pieces.. and the shoes. She stared down at her dusty feet, blushing at her own bad behavior. It was the most mortal insult one could give and Wish was right to be enraged. No matter how deeply her heart hurt at realizing that he had tricked her, lied to her, and treated her like the ignorant desert girl he had called her so many times, it was wrong. He was NOT a friend, no matter how much she wanted him to be... but it was still wrong. She should not have done it. The ache of shame and upset blossomed in her chest once more and her footsteps moved quickly from the hall, almost without thought to the one place of safety that her heart always lead her to.
Standing before the Veil, sand shifting beneath her feet, she stared up into its howling, swirling chaos, as she had done so many times. She leaned into the wind, its strength supporting her weight completely, pushing, resisting, and forbidding her from going further. The gale tore the sounds from her mouth as soon as she screamed them, as she had so many times before: "I WANT TO GO HOME!!" Sobbing, miserable, she curled up in the lee of a large rock and slept, her hand cupped over a word she had repeatedly scratched into the gray surface over the course of her visits: "Bayt" - "Home." Seraph’s words from the day prior spun in her mind, echoing over and over: The desert was a small place, enclosed, stagnant. No longer their home. She had to change and grow to meet this new world. Each thought was met by an equally forceful, instinctive refusal within her. Home was safety. Home was understanding expectations. Home was where no one laughed at her words or thought to give unwelcome touch, or broke sacred vows. She refused to acknowledge even in her own mind that it was also a place where she, herself, by her bardic magic, was forbidden, focusing only on the comforting cocoon of its familiarity. Eventually, her tears ran out. Exhausted, she sang a soft lullaby her aunt used to sing about baby goats being brought safely to shelter, just to give herself comfort, her voice rough from the tears. Such was her weariness that she did not note the shift in the Veil above her, a drop in its howling pitch as she murmured each verse. At long last, she slipped into a deep slumber, the penetrating heat of the sand that cradled her finally allowing her aching body and heart to seek healing.
The Discovery
Venom walked quickly beyond the trail marker and up to the crest of a nearby sand dune. He mumbled to himself as he shuffled through the sands, distracted by his own thoughts, aware of his surroundings only subconsciously. Samiyah the sand-goat had consumed his focus once again. The meddler had been a constant thorn in his side since she had released Sycora from his charm-butcher spell. Now she must be made to suffer for her intrusion, or perhaps even be sent on a fool’s errand while bigger plans were hatched. Reaching the top of the sand dune, Venom cupped his eyes with both hands to block the wind and sun, peering into the distant desert as far as the waves of heat would allow. Scanning to the east where he last saw the magical barrier of swirling sands, he saw what he had come for. Many times he had been down this trail, investigating the strange and arcane magics that separate this realm from the homeland of the whore, Sabella, and the meddler, Samiyah. This time, however, would be different.
Venom had come to continue his experiments on the powerful Veil of wind and sand but his eyes had spotted a sight so rare that all thoughts of the Veil fell from his mind. Could it be? He ran down the back side of the dune, head on into the swirling sands. By the foul feet of halflings he couldn't believe his eyes! There lay Samiyah, curled up a ball by the shelter of a large boulder, sleeping. Laying like a child seemingly comforted by the arms of her mother, Samiyah was swathed in the desert sand, her veil fluttering against her face in the hot winds. Venom thought briefly about taking advantage of this odd situation to further frighten the naive girl, but alas, she was a hard goat and waking her might prove challenging. No, he decided, there was an opportunity here to learn something without her knowing.
He scanned the ground about and opened his nostrils to the salt air. The area showed subtle signs of frequent visits. The stone she used as a wind-break was a large slab jutting out of the sand. Not just a simple rock but, he noted, there was something scratched onto its surface. Desert letters: "bayt". Venom scribbled the word down, knowing the dirty-minded one could translate it for a price. This might be something to use against the meddler in the future and she had no idea she had been discovered. Venom glanced at Samiyah one last time as he walked away, her innocence so visible now as she slept, he almost pitied her. A child lost in a strange and scary land, wanting so badly to go back to the home with which she was more familiar. He could see her struggle. No matter how many beasts she defeated, she would never win the battle to be like others. The pity passed quickly and he spat toward her, making his way back to DarkClaw's temple.
Seraph’s Amusement
(Log by Venom)
Someone steps out of the shadows.
Seraph says, 'good day, Venom'.
Seraph looks at you.
You say (in halfling), 'good day'.
Under Mysterra Falls
[Exits: north west]
The sky is cloudless and a warm southerly breeze blows.
A brown trout swims past.
(Intense Dark Blue Aura) Seraph is here.
You bow before him.
You say (in common), 'To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?'.
Seraph says, 'I hear you are looking to visit the desert'.
You say (in common), 'Your informants are late. I completed my research this morning.'.
Seraph says, 'Very good'.
Seraph grins happily.
Seraph says, 'I hope you found everything you were looking for'.
You say (in common), 'I found everything I was looking for and more.'.
Seraph says, 'good'.
You say (in common), 'Samiyah will soon be unable to meddle in my affairs.'.
Seraph says, 'did you find the evil lurking in the desert?'.
You say (in common), 'I did'.
Seraph says, 'very good. Great news. Great news.’.
You say (in common), 'I found a delightful secret too'.
Seraph says, 'oh?'.
You nod.
Seraph says, 'delightful? This is truly a great day'.
You say (in common), 'For me, yes. For Samiyah, I doubt it.'.
Seraph says, 'she will be fine'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*your voice is overheard and the hold is broken as curiosity overrules and she glances down to see who you speak to, only raising more questions in doing so.'.
You laugh.
You say (in common), 'Pardon me for laughing. I doubt that.'.
Seraph says, 'Oh, I am sure of it'.
You ftell, '*a nervous glance is cast your way, a plea for help*'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*shakes off the lust and focuses on you more fully*'.
You say (in common), 'She will unravel like a poorly wrapped cigar. She will come to you for help. You will once again tell her to bite her tongue. She will flee to the desert to be alone. And when she does.. she will find me, waiting.'.
Seraph says, 'I truly hope so'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Is something amiss, Venom?'.
You ftell, 'I am uncertain Madam, this one always worries me.'.
Seraph says, 'the elf with 2 souls'.
You say (in common), 'Who?'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*a hint of amusement* I truly can't imagine anything worrying you.'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Least of all, a mere Immortal.'.
You ftell, 'He is the soul drinker... something about that seems threatening to me specifically'.
You ftell, 'Though I do not know why'.
DarkClaw ftells, '..Yet you remain in his presence.'.
Seraph smiles happily.
Seraph says, 'Please - go to the desert. Enjoy the warm sun'.
You say (in common), 'Was there something else?'.
You ftell, 'I would not be rude'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'I don't see why not. You are to me.'.
You ftell, 'I answer in kind.'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*barks out a laugh*'.
You say (in common), 'When next I visit the desert, I will be bringing with me the tools to implement my plans. For now, there is nothing there for me'.
Seraph says, 'I hope you gather all that you need .... and use it wisely'.
You say (in common), 'I shall. I hope you also remain wise, as always... Or perhaps you should ask Samiyah the meaning of "bayt"'.
DarkClaw says, 'I believe he knows the meaning of it.'.
Seraph says, 'I liked you better as a Demi-Lich '.
You say (in common), 'I do not share that belief'.
Seraph nods towards DarkClaw.
DarkClaw turns to Seraph with a brow raised.
You say (in common), 'I will return to my Demi-Lich status in time.'.
Seraph says, 'an elf with two souls is wonderful'.
You say (in common), 'Why do you keep saying that? Are you referring to me?'.
Seraph says, 'of course'.
Venom glances nervously at DarkClaw, 'What is he talking about?'
Seraph gets a sly grin across his face.
Venom appears confused, and nervous.
A brown trout arrives from the north.
DarkClaw says, 'I'm curious, Seraph...in what business you have with one of Mine. Hardly suitable for a bloo to be wishing an evil well on their plans, either.'.
Seraph says, 'it will be wonderful to watch them merge and fight for control. It’s not him Star. It’s his two souls.’.
You say (in common), 'You are mistaken Sir. I am simply Venom, returned from the past, cursed by the gods. I have only one soul that I am aware of.'.
Seraph folds his hands behind his back.
DarkClaw says, 'His souls are MINE, not yours for the taking.'.
Venom raises a sharp eyebrow at DarkClaw.. "Souls?"
Seraph says, 'oh, Star! I have no reason to take them. So, Venom, please do what you must do'.
You say (in common), 'What sort of Good Immortal would take another's soul without permission. Hardly suited to your status.'.
Seraph says, 'As I said: I have no reason to take them. That was my past'.
DarkClaw ignores Venom's questions and continues to stare at Seraph. "Seraph has not always been good. There is a part of him that will always remain tainted."
Seraph says, 'I just love to be entertained'.
You say (in common), 'Yes, I recall the fallen one, the soul drinker, the blind angel... I still smell malice in him.'.
Venom hisses.
Seraph says, 'and this is very entertaining to me'.
DarkClaw says, 'Entertain yourself elsewhere, Seraph. Venom is no concern of yours.'.
Seraph says, 'roaming in the desert is my concern'.
You say (in common), 'The desert does not belong to you.'.
Seraph says, 'Keep thinking that, young lich'.
Seraph walks around, looking at the fish swim by.
Seraph says, 'simply breathtaking how they have one goal in life and do not see danger around them'.
DarkClaw says, 'He has been advised not to unleash that which lies behind the veil.'.
Seraph says, 'he will not listen'.
You say (in common), 'Of course not.'.
Seraph says, 'when you find it, Venom, utter the word 'miska' and it will be yours'.
You say (in common), 'We shall see...'.
Seraph says, 'We will meet again, young lich....good day Star'.
You bow before him.
Seraph steps into the shadows.
Seraph disappears instantly.
DarkClaw growls in irritation and turns to look at you.
The Taste of a Kiss
(Log by Wish)
The Coral Cave
[Exits: south]
Glittering white sand covers the floor of this room, curling in tiny swirls
across the room as if by some unseen current. The cave appears to have
naturally grown within the center of a massive coral formation, and you are
unable to detect any sign of intentional construction. The coral walls pulse
with life, as sea creatures dart in and out of tiny crevices, and colorful
coral fronds sway to and fro like leaves in the wind. Sunlight gently streams
into the room through cracks in the coral ceiling, bathing everything in an
eerie bluish cast. Some magical force must be at work here, since you appear to
be completely underwater, and yet able to breathe without difficulty. The
only exit is to the south, through a small carved out of the coral wall.
(Token magic) A magical spring flows from the ground here.
Sabella is here.
You hug her.
You smile happily.
Sabella says (in common), 'Hello, Student.'.
You say, 'Hello, Teacher.'.
You say, 'Do you have a lesson for me today?'.
Sabella says (in common), 'If you wish one..'.
You say, 'I am always eager to learn...I am just not sure we will not be disturbed by...the outworld.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'Or perhaps a discussion - it depends what you have time and focus for.'.
You say, 'A discussion, I am sure, would be quite informative. Our last lesson...was a bit frustrating. I wish for more time to explore each topic in more detail.'.
Sabella nods.
Sabella says (in common), 'But physical pleasures need not always lead to culmination or satisfaction at that moment.'.
You say, 'I do have a question, however.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'Ask.'.
You nod in recognition to her.
You look at Sabella.
Seeing your gaze, the woman before you rises gracefully from where she knelt,
and dips into a curtsey. She murmurs a greeting, her voice like warmed honey,
touched with the accent of the Great Eastern Desert, the movement of her rose
-red full lips almost mesmerizing. Her eyes are exquisite topaz amber, shaped
like exotic almonds, and in them, you can almost see the centuries of sensual
play this woman has come to epitomize. If the stories people whisper in tones
of shock (and sometimes lust) are true, she has been a notorious plaything of
the Gods and those worthy enough to capture or command her servitude, finding
and expressing pleasure in the most obscene and base ways, fully embracing an
Anguisette's instinctual submission and service.
There is nothing demure in the way she returns your glance, looking your form
up and down, mentally calculating, measuring, apprising your appetites... and
abilities. An utterly wicked smile is beginning to curve her lips, a throaty
chuckle escaping them. Reaching up, she runs her fingertips caressingly along
the surface of a long strand of glossy white pearls that circle her neck then
slide deep into the delicious depths of her magnificent cleavage, the gesture
casual yet somehow terribly perverse, all at the same time.
"I am Sabella. How may I serve?"
Sabella is in perfect health.
Sabella is using:
<used as light> a lantern of shuttered red glass
<worn around neck> a pearl necklace
<worn around neck> (Weak magic) a black velvet choker
<worn on body> (Red Aura) a black spider silk dress
<worn on legs> (Token magic) a pair of black fishnet stockings
<worn on feet> (Moderate magic) a pair of wicked black spiked heels
<worn about body> (Moderate magic) an embroidered black cloak
<worn around wrist> a set of bangles
<worn around wrist> a set of bangles
<wielded> the wiles of a skilled seductress
<held> a calling card
<worn with pride> (Token magic) A Pin of Nashite
<worn with pride> (Red Aura) (Shimmering) a black crescent-shaped vial
Wish's eyebrows raise up in delighted surprise!
You say, 'Your attire.. it pleases me greatly. You honor both me, and Lord Nash. And it makes my question even more poignant.'.
Sabella touches the pin, then lets her hand trail down along her curves to one more rest on her hip.
Wish follows, Sabella's hand motion...barely able to keep his eyes from her curves.
You say, 'I...uhh..excuse me, you always put me at a loss for words....but I had a question...'.
Sabella says (in common), 'Please go ahead.'.
Sabella moves a half-step closer.
You say, 'First, you said you were created by Lord Sirak and the Arch Lich...for the pleasure of others. Is that correct?'.
Sabella says (in common), 'I am not a golem if that is what you are asking.. their task given to me was a .. a rebirth of sorts. I am of mortals born'.
Wish looks embarrassed by his ill-statement.
You say, 'Oh no, apologies, Teacher. I meant that not at all. My question was really to do with Lord Nash.'.
Sabella steps a bit closer.
You say, 'Do you know what their deeper purpose in giving you this task was? Was it for the honor of Lord Nash?'.
Wish feels the heat of Sabella's body embrace him from the short distance...his nostrils flare as he takes in her delicious scent.
Sabella says (in common), 'While they did not fully explain it - why would they? I was merely a mortal - It was my understanding that their purpose was to craft an outlet...for the more violent and physical urges that an aggressive band of individuals such as the Conclave included.. and for their own amusement as well.'.
Sabella reaches out with one crimson fingertip and traces along the lines of your forearm tattoos.
Wish quivers with excitement...feeling it rise within him...
You look at Sabella.
You say, 'Your neck is beautiful, Sabella. You speak of physical urges...I am beginning to learn I have many.. and I have ignored them for too long.'.
Sabella reaches up and slides her hair back, tilting her head to one side, displaying it for you.
Sabella says (in common), 'It is a place on the body of exquisite sensitivity, Wish. Did you know that?'.
Wish leans in, not allowing himself to touch her, just taking in the curve of her neck up close... breathing in deeply her perfume.
Sabella says (in common), 'Even the feeling of breath across the skin...'.
Wish blows ever so slightly...
Sabella shivers delicately as you lean in, the warm wash of your exhalation causing goose-bumps to rise. She moans ever so softly, eyes closing for a brief second. "Yes. Exactly so."
Wish leans further forward, simply the tips of his lips brushing against the tiny extended hairs on her neck.
Sabella says (in common), 'One can caress with breath, fingers, mouth.. even a nuzzle.. all make lovely music... It is a point of vulnerability, you see.. the pulse, here...'. She languidly indicates the spot where her rapid heartbeat causes the dusky skin to rise.
Wish says in her ear...deep, and barely audible "Yes... Sabella... I almost wish I was Kindred...to know how it feels to feed." He moans out, "To consume you."
Sabella smiles at your words. "To us.. blood does not have the same pleasure and fulfillment.. but .. a bite can be quite erotic nonetheless..'
Wish reaches around Sabella's waist, pulling her hard into him, his mouth covering the pulse on her neck.
Sabella invites, one hand slipping up to cradle your head and draw you closer. "Go ahead, if you wish. Let me feel your teeth."
Wish bites down, not enough to break the skin, but enough to taste her salt, to leave a mark.
Wish's tongue teases her neck, as his hand pulls her firmly to him, grinding against her thigh.
Wish whispers, "I never knew...never understood..."
Sabella moans through parted lips, knees weakening just a touch, as she savors the feel of your mouth.
Sabella says (in common), 'That.. my Student.. Was very nicely done.'.
Wish withdraws hesitantly...slowly...savoring each moment...
Sabella says (in common), 'Do you know how to recognize the signs of pleasure and arousal in your partner?'.
Wish nods, looking Sabella in the eyes.
Sabella says (in common), 'do you see what reaction my body had to the feel of your teeth?'.
You say, 'I am learning...the flush...the increase in breathing... the slightly parted lips..'.
Sabella says (in common), 'The shifts of skin color and warmth... changes in scent..'.
You say, 'Yes, Sabella...and the eyes...the eyes that invite.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'You can tell all through the eyes, yes.'.
Sabella indicates the tight peaks clear beneath the dark silk.
Wish twitches, his hand making an involuntary cupping motion at his side.
Sabella says (in common), 'And you can see... I enjoyed it very much.'.
Wish takes a deep breath, gathering himself...taking a step backward...but not wanting to.
Sabella says (in common), 'I like being bitten - a little pain - or..' She admits: "Sometimes quite a lot - adds to the pleasure for me."
You say, 'This is an aspect I would very much like to explore. The Alchemy of pleasure and pain.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'did you know that kissing and sustenance can be combined with care?'.
You say, 'Please explain...'.
Sabella says (in common), 'I came prepared...'.
Sabella grins evilly.
Sabella says (in common), 'with a demonstration, should you wish it.'.
Wish nods vigorously.
You say, 'I would like it very much, Sabella.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'then please sit.'.
Wish waves a hand, causing the sands to swirl into a comfortable lounge chair.
Sabella withdraws a small paper sack and a chilled bottle from a bag.
Wish sits down, his eyes never leaving Sabella.
Sabella slides closer, and sits atop you, straddling your thighs yet keeping mostly upright, little to no weight on your lap.
Sabella says conversationally, "The sensual power of food is already known to you.."
Wish nods, his mind briefly wandering to the thought of luscious pastries... cookies... pies...
Sabella withdraws a perfect, plump, ripe strawberry from the bag.
Wish, feeling Sabella straddling him, becomes aroused again quickly.
Wish restrains himself from grabbing her waist and thrusting upwards...barely.
Sabella smiles slightly as she reads your need in the shifting of your hands.
Sabella neatly slices the berry into perfect servings.
Sabella withdraws a square of chocolate from the bag.
Sabella says (in common), 'Extend your tongue.. but do not bite or swallow until I indicate that you may.'.
Wish nods in compliance, extending out his tongue.
Sabella lays the square of chocolate upon your tongue.
Sabella pauses a brief moment to let it start to melt.
Wish looks down cross-eyed at his extended tongue.
Wish suddenly tastes the melting chocolate.. a taste he has come to learn well recently.
Sabella slides the strawberry between her lips.
Sabella kisses you, moving the strawberry into your mouth with her tongue.
Wish's face goes wide in delight, as the kiss and the treats are shared...his tongue and Sabella's mingling, entwining each other's.
Wish reaches up with one hand, placing it on Sabella's hip, squeezing it firmly as they kiss.
Coral Cave is completely silent...as if all the creatures of the reef have decided to go...elsewhere
Sabella leans in, letting her weight settle, timing it to the movement of her mouth on yours.
Wish enjoys the deliciousness of the kiss, the sugary sweetness of the chocolate and fruit, mixed with the salty taste of Sabella's tongue.
Sabella shares the taste of it with you, her lips moving teasingly against yours, her tongue darting to taste your mouth.
Sabella shifts her weight back as she sits up, breaking off the kiss. "That is but one of many ways.."
Wish groans with new-found pleasures...ones he had not even imagined.
Sabella says (in common), 'For example, liquids can be trickled across the skin and savored.. such as honey or wine..'.
Wish mutters slightly, "I...I...am not sure how much more I can take...today."
Sabella says (in common), 'Very well.'.
Sabella rises gracefully, sliding slowly off your lap.
Wish reaches out...not wanting it to end...
Wish decides to stay seated...for a while.
Sabella chuckles wickedly.
You say, 'Sabella, have I told you how beautiful you are? How much I enjoy these lessons?'.
Sabella says (in common), 'You have not, in either case.'.
You say, 'Well, You are. Beautiful, I mean. And I do...enjoy them very much. You make me want to...remain in this form.'.
Sabella moves smoothly to the floor before your chair, kneeling in a very formal, almost ritual-looking posture.
Wish blushes slightly...adding.. "More than even the pastries. And the pies."
Sabella teasingly gasps in shock, one hand covering her mouth.
Sabella murmurs through a smile, "A high compliment indeed, Wish."
Wish not quite recognizing her sarcasm, says "One much deserved, Sabella. And it is you, Sabella, who compliment me with your attentions.'.
Wish bows deeply.
Sabella turns the topic back to your lessons.
Sabella says (in common), 'How does it make you feel, Wish, when you see me kneeling like this?'.
Wish takes in her form before him.
Sabella says (in common), 'What thoughts or images or urges or questions arise in your mind?'.
You say, 'I must be honest. Always, yes?'.
Sabella says (in common), 'Yes. Always.'.
You say, 'I am deeply aroused...and yet ashamed.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'Why shame?'.
You say, 'I wish to dominate you...to make you do things...to take you in ways you can't imagine... And yet, this goes against my values. Freedom. That is what I value most. The freedom to choose.'.
Sabella's expression gentles. "This is a place that many are never comfortable going, Wish."
You say, 'The freedom from domination.'.
Sabella nods.
Sabella says (in common), 'exactly so. Consent is sacred. But what if someone uses that freedom to willingly, joyfully, lustfully, give up their will? Because if you cannot Choose to discard your freedom.. are you actually free?'.
You say, 'I will need to think on this...'.
Sabella nods.
Sabella drinks from her goblet, letting the cool wine slide down her throat.
You smile happily.
Sabella smiles at you.
You say, 'I agree, Sabella...Those who willingly let go of freedom...'.
Sabella indicates herself.
Sabella says (in common), '.. have the greatest freedom and paradoxically the greatest control.'.
You say, 'Intellectually, I agree.'.
You say, 'Emotionally...I will take some time...to get there.'.
You smile happily.
Wish manages to stand up now.
Wish extends his hand out, offering Sabella a lift up.
Sabella shakes her head slightly.
Sabella says (in common), 'I need to stay here a moment more… as there is one other thing I would say.'.
Wish looks down, a bit perplexed.
Sabella glances up at you and asks, "Can you accept me as both a worshiper and your Teacher? Or shall one wait until the other role is ended?"
Wish ponders the question a moment... fully understanding Sabella's outfit now...
You say, 'Sabella, to have you as a worshiper would be, quite frankly, the greatest blessing ever bestowed on me. And, I see no difficulty in the matter. I learn much more from my followers than I ever teach them. This would be no different.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'Then it is my heartfelt desire to be enclosed within the comfort of the Nashite Faith once more.. '.
You smile happily.
Sabella glances down a moment, then adds quietly: "And I wish for a barrier.."
You say, 'A barrier? Is something or someone attacking you?'.
Sabella says (in common), 'between myself and Star, to be fully truthful.'.
You say, 'I see. You and Star...you tempt each other...And she has been, lately, making bad choices with her adventures.'.
Sabella says quietly, "I had permission for those adventures. No. My issue is broken trust."
You say, 'Yes...my guess is Venom feels the same way.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'She used me to conceal her actions with Venom as a magician draws the eye away from his sleight of hand.'.
Wish shakes his head in disappointment.
Wish catches himself.
You say, 'Star is my friend. I will not judge her. But I can understand your feelings of betrayal.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'There are .. rules for behavior... even for those of us who are not good'.
Wish smiles, evilly.
You say, 'indeed'.
Sabella says (in common), 'You do not violate those rules without consequence'.
You nod in recognition to her.
Wish points to the northern wall...to the words written there.
You say, 'Alchemy has consequences...'.
Sabella nods.
Sabella says (in common), 'It does. Life does. Choices do.'.
You say, 'I would be happy to have you as a follower...and as a Nashite sister.'.
Sabella says (in common), 'That would please me greatly.'.
You smile happily.
You say, 'Are you fully in agreement with the Alchemist's Code?'.
Sabella says (in common), 'I am.'.
You smile happily.
You say, 'Then you may worship.'.
Sabella slips her hands between yours and looks up into your face.
Wish looks at Sabella, with a mixture of affection, respect...and delight.
Sabella says (in common), 'Wish, I consecrate and dedicate myself to your laws, goals and efforts.'.
Sabella tacks on in a murmur, "...and pleasures."
You say, 'And I accept and shall nourish your dedication, making myself worthy of your worship.'.
Wish tacks on in a murmur, "....and your lessons.."
Sabella slips her hands from yours and bends over, laying a kiss on each of your feet.
Wish closes his eyes in pleasure...feeling her hair against his legs.
Sabella sits back on her heels and smiles. "I look forward to our next lesson"
You say, 'As do I, Sabella...they are becoming as necessary as my next breath of air.'.
Sabella shouts (in common), 'Praise Lord Nash!'.
You shout, 'PRAISE LORD NASH!!!'.
Sabella rises, presses herself closely against you, captures your mouth in a quick, intense kiss, and departs.
Sabella leaves south.
Friends Once More
(log by Sami)
The Riverhold Town Hall and School
[Exits: north south]
(Dark Cyan Aura) Selff is here.
Singing under her breath, Elvalee prepares the next lesson.
You smile happily.
You say (in common), 'did you move to Riverhold?'.
Tross arrives from the north.
Tross sleeps.
Tross wakes and stands up.
Selff nods.
You say (in common), 'Hello, Tross..'.
You say (in common), 'Selff, could you excuse us for just a moment?'.
Selff nods.
Selff bows deeply.
Tross rubs the back of his neck and smiles back awkwardly.
Tross says (in common), '..Hi Sami. How are you?'.
You say (in common), '.. are you mad at me?'.
Tross shakes her head.
Tross shakes her head.
Tross says (in common), 'No!'.
You say (in common), '.. You don't talk anymore. I wait in our spot, but .. you never come.'.
Tross says (in common), '... are you mad at me?'.
You say (in common), 'No!'.
Tross's grin floods.
Samiyah sits down crosslegged on the floor.
Tross says (in common), 'Well okay then!'.
Tross joins you promptly.
Tross rests.
You say (in common), 'I haven't ever been mad at you, Tross.'.
Tross says (in common), 'want an apple?'.
You say (in common), 'Yes, please!'.
Tross gets a delicious green apple from a rattrap.
Tross gives you a delicious green apple.
You smile at her.
Tross gets a delicious green apple from bag made from doe hide.
Samiyah polishes the apple on her sleeve.
Tross polishes one on his shirt.
Tross grins evilly at you.
Samiyah removes the decorative brooches holding her veil in place.
Samiyah unwinds the dark linen folds of fabric that cowl her hair.
Samiyah lifts the last drape that conceals her face.
Tross says (in common), 'You'll get sunburned like that..'.
Tross says (in common), 'Oh!'.
Tross frowns.
You say (in common), 'It's okay.'.
Samiyah takes a large, juicy bite from the apple.
Samiyah indicates Elvalee with the fruit. "I am going to school."
You say (in common), 'Elvalee is teaching me common script.'.
Tross uses his fingernail to punch a hole in the apple peel and begins tugging off bits of the green skin.
Tross frowns.
Tross says (in common), 'whose making you go to school? Is that why you've been crying?'.
You say (in common), 'Don't worry, I didn't tell her about you. No.. I got tired of people calling me "ignorant desert girl" so I decided not to be ignorant anymore and go to school. Common script is very ugly. All angles and lines. Ours is pretty. Circles and flowy bits.'.
Tross says (in common), 'Oh, I don't think that's gonna fix it. *said offhand without much thought*'.
You blink.
Samiyah bites her lip. "Well. I am trying."
Tross says (in common), 'I been called ignorant in more ports than I have fingers and toes.'.
You say (in common), '.. it isn't nice to call someone that. It's hurtful. And people shouldn't call you names. You're the cleverest thing I know.'.
Samiyah rises and walks over to the slate, picking up a bit of chalk.
Samiyah bites her lip in concentration, and writes in large block letters (only slightly crookedly): T R O S S
Tross says (in common), 'It's not like I listened to them. Everyone has their own smarts. I wouldn't know what to do with a goat - you're still figuring this place out.'.
You say (in common), '.. you whack them with a stick to make them go where you want.'.
You say (in common), 'and sing them to sleep when its night.'.
Tross pauses a long moment.
Tross says (in common), '..well, now I know.'.
You say (in common), 'and try to make sure they don't chew on your clothes when you sleep - because a goat will eat anything.'.
Tross says (in common), '..even mushrooms?'.
Samiyah writes carefully: S A M I Y A H.
You say (in common), 'Yup.'.
Tross grins evilly.
Tross says (in common), 'I need a goat!'.
Samiyah writes carefully, 'S E R A F'
Samiyah writes carefully: W I ...
Samiyah scribbles that part out.
Samiyah writes carefully: G A Z K U L
You say (in common), 'See? I have letters.'.
Tross takes a bite of the apple and motions to the letter with the rest of the apple: What was that one there?
Samiyah shakes her head and sighs. "Wish's name. .. Do you want me to show you how?"
Tross says (in common), 'I can write. School isn't the only place to learn stuff.'.
You say (in common), '.. oh.'.
Samiyah blushes, ducking her head and concealing her face in one of the layers of her veil.
You say (in common), '.. so if you knew what it was, how come you asked?'.
Tross motions again with the apple, a less than helpful tool in pointing.
Tross says (in common), 'That one you erased'.
Tross says (in common), 'you answered though.'.
Samiyah erases the names vigorously, attempting to conceal her troubled thoughts.
You say (in common), '.. this is my language.'.
Tross says (in common), 'There was this guy we all called patch eye who taught me mostly. I'd find him when he was eating fruits and things and he'd give me slices for writing stuff.'.
Tross takes a big bite, chewing with full cheeks as he watches.
Samiyah writes out her full name in a flowing, circular script.
Samiyah sets the chalk down and comes and sits next to you again.
You say (in common), '.. why did you think I was mad at you?'.
Tross shrugs.
Tross says (in common), '... Well you aren't, so it's nothing right? Can you write my name in your old language?'.
Samiyah smiles and murmurs, 'Sure,' accepting the change of topic. She rises again and walks to the chalk board.
Samiyah takes up the chalk, tilts her head to one side thinking for a moment.
Samiyah sketches out a long string of exquisite arabesques and looping letters.
Tross says (in common), 'Is it a translation or just the sounds written out?'.
You say (in common), '"My friend, the high-aloft sea bird, who has found a nest in alchemy"'.
Samiyah points to each word.
Tross says (in common), 'At this one port, I was called 'Kil-lo-ki-ku-pa' because it was the name they called the bird there.'.
Tross grins evilly.
You smile happily.
Tross says (in common), '... that's a lot to fit into one little name, what you wrote.'.
Tross says (in common), 'Names are supposed to be quick and easy. Just a way to say 'hey you', and have people know who they mean.'.
You say (in common), 'well, just the bird name is "al-ghattas"'.
You say (in common), 'but that's not very pretty'.
Tross says (in common), 'Tross, get down! Tross, wake up! Tross, stop walking on the railing!'.
Tross grins evilly.
You grin happily.
Tross says (in common), 'though even without the name I'd know they meant me on the last one.'.
You giggle.
Tross says (in common), 'what's your name mean then?'.
Tross gets an oatmeal cookie from bag made from doe hide.
Tross eats an oatmeal cookie.
Tross gets an oatmeal cookie from bag made from doe hide.
Tross eats an oatmeal cookie.
Samiyah wrinkles her brow in thought.
Samiyah blushes a little and fidgets.
You say (in common), Exalted.
You say (in common), The High One.' '.
You say (in common), '.. that's why I prefer just Sami.'.
Tross sizes you up.
Tross laughs.
You say (in common), 'the other.. just sounds sort of silly.'.
You say (in common), 'though..'.
Samiyah wrinkles her brow in thought.
You say (in common), 'Did I tell you there's a bard who is wanting to write a song about ME?!'.
Tross grins evilly.
Tross nods.
You say (in common), 'that's just the weirdest thing.'.
Tross says (in common), 'Who's the bard?'.
You say (in common), 'Alfonse.'.
Tross says (in common), 'Don't know'm. Hey do you want another apple? I'm starving again.'.
You giggle.
You say (in common), 'No, but you go ahead.'.
You say (in common), 'I'll catch you again later.'.
Tross smiles happily.
Tross nods.
Tross says (in common), 'You betcha'.
You say (in common), '.. be careful of Venom.'.
Tross says (in common), 'how come?'.
You say (in common), ' He's getting more aggressive. He's attacked two High Order.'.
Tross nods.
Tross says (in common), 'ok'.
Tross's stomach growls.
Tross waves happily.
Tross smiles at you.
You wave.
Tross leaves south.
A Synopsis for Aoide, and Aoide's Advice
You tell Aoide (in common), '*hesitant smile* Hello..'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'Greetings, Sami!'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'how are you?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*ponders a moment* Good and bad both.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'hm..what is good and what is not?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'Well, the good, is that I got back my missing journal, and Sahib magicked it so it's a part of my soul now and can't ever be lost. And the good is that I slew my last mob mastery target!'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'well that is wonderful..both of them!'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'I think so. :) What is good for you?'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'no, wait. You skipped the bad part'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '.. I did... yes...it is very big.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'I am also big'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'well.. Venom and DarkClaw would have been tied to and torn apart by camels whipped in opposite directions... and Wish lied to me and did a trickery, and got me in trouble with Sahib, so I wrote a poem and tore it to pieces, and (a whispered admission of much shame) threw my shoe at his door.. And Venom is mad because I broke his Charm spell, and has said that I Will Pay, and he keeps watching me. And.. I had a thought that was .. haraam.. and.. I had asked DarkClaw's advice before I knew of what she had done, and she and Sahib said the same thing - that women have such thoughts and they are fine, but .. they... I don't know about that. I did tell Ghazkull, and now he is uncomfortable. So.. I don't know if Ghaz is my friend any more, Wish did trickery and is NOT my friend any more, I have been throwing shoes, Sahib is angry...'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'oh, my'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'Oh, but Tross is NOT angry!'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'I am not understanding all of this'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'Oh. What part was unclear?'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'I understand that it is very big, but Sami, some of this is not making sense'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'what do you mean, women have such thoughts? And how did you break Venom's spell?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'Oh and another good is that I am learning my letters from Elvalee, so people cannot call me an ignorant desert girl anymore.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'oh that is good'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'Well, the spell -- I talked to a very old vampire mage named Nicholai and he gave me some advice about Charms. So I had the charmed girl take a bath, and we purified her with salt and holy water and incense.. and stand in a circle, and purified her clothes, too.. and I said a charm.. and then .. I dispelled her VERY VERY big. and poof! The charm was gone. And Venom was VERY sputtering mad.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'I imagine!'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'so now, he doesn't have any charmed people left'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'yes, I imagine that would bother him'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*nods* He put "al-Shaitan" in his name, as a message to me.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'ok, so that part makes more sense. And Tross isn't mad about what?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'it means "enemy from the deepest hells" -- that which MUST be opposed to the last breath and drop of blood'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'you forget that we have not spoken in some days'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'I don't know. I thought she was mad because she stopped talking to me when I did an abomination to make her happy'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'But she thought I was mad, so..'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'ah.. well I'm glad you got that cleared up. It is sad to fight with a friend'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*answers, the word laden with meaning* .. Yes. '.
Apples and Goats
(Log by Sami)
Tross says (in common), 'so who's Alfonse?'.
You say (in common), '.. a fish bard, but that's really all I know about him'.
Tross says (in common), 'you know why he wants to write about you?'.
Samiyah glances at you, having been in heated conversation.
You say (in common), 'I was telling Aoide about breaking Venom's spell'.
Tross says (in common), 'The charm on Verminaard? I learned charm recently... maybe I can get that goat we talked about!'.
Samiyah shifts uncomfortably.
You say (in common), 'You don't have to charm goats..'.
You say (in common), 'just feed an apple or two ..'.
Tross peers at the apple in his hand.
Tross peers at you.
You say (in common), 'to the goat.'.
You say (in common), 'They like them.'.
Tross laughs.
Tross nods in recognition to you.
Tross says (in common), 'I was just laughing because I just gave you an apple. But that wasn't what I meant!'.
You say (in common), 'Oh. Well. That's what Venom calls me. A goat.'.
Tross says (in common), 'an - oh, not an apple.'.
Samiyah nibbles on the apple.
Tross grins evilly.
Tross says (in common), 'will you eat clothing?'.
You shake your head.
Tross says (in common), 'Then you're not a goat, trust me. I learned from someone who knows'.
Tross winks suggestively at you.
You giggle.
Tross gets a still-warm chocolate chip cookie from bag made from doe hide.
Tross eats a still-warm chocolate chip cookie.
Tross gets a still-warm chocolate chip cookie from bag made from doe hide.
Tross eats a still-warm chocolate chip cookie.
Tross gets a still-warm chocolate chip cookie from bag made from doe hide.
Tross gives you a still-warm chocolate chip cookie.
You smile happily.
Samiyah leans against the school house wall, quiet.
Tross says (in common), 'So how've you been? I haven't really seen you much, I've been busy practicing things and running around.'.
You say (in common), 'Well, I've been... running around causing a lot of trouble, behaving very badly.'.
Samiyah stares at her clasped hands, releasing one to trace the patterns of henna.
Tross says (in common), '.. What's that coloring on your hand?'.
You say (in common), 'it is henna. A paste of seeds and oil that we trace on the skin. It stains it, temporarily.'.
Tross says (in common), 'like a tattoo?'.
You nod.
You say (in common), 'Yes.'.
You say (in common), 'but it wears away after a few weeks'.
Aoide's Advice Part II
(Log by Sami)
You tell Aoide (in common), '... *cautiously, hesitantly, very softly* .. Have you.. ever.. um... *stammering* thought about.. kissing.. someone who was .. who .. who you were not wed to?'.
Aoide tells you (in common), '*covers her mouth to conceal a laugh* Well I am not wed so that would be *anyone* and yes, I suppose I have'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '... did you do it? .. did it lead to bad things?'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'sure, some of the times. Not all. But Sami..we have different cultures'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'I was not brought up that I would shame myself or my family to kiss a boy. In my case, no, it did not. I suppose I have seen it lead to bad things. But that depends very much on the people who belong to the two sets of lips'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*ponders* Sahib and DarkClaw both said it was a womanly thing to think of, and Sahib said that this ONCE I might.. but... I do not think...'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'hm.. Well I wouldn't say a womanly thing. I think it is a people thing'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'I do not think it would be wise. And the one I thought it of, seemed.. uncomfortable.. with knowing. even though I said I would never speak of it to him again, ever.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'ah. Well then perhaps you can file away the thought for another time if Sahib has given you his permission maybe there will be a time you will wish to have that permission'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*bites her lip* .. I don't know. but .. that is part of what has been troubling me.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'which part? The permission, or the thought?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '.. yes. both.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'or the fact that this one is now uncomfortable around you?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '.. that too! He was a friend, and now.. I don't know..'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'well, one problem at a time then. First: the permission. That's the easiest, I guess. What bothers you about it?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '..because SAHIB said it was fine... and.. he is of the desert. . It.. doesn't feel right that he said it was okay.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'well, hasn't he said that some of the teachings were not his words?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '.. yes.. '.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'or maybe he is simply giving you special permission. He did just say *once.* THIS once.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'hm. Well, I do not know him really, nor the desert. I would not urge you to forsake your truths. But on the other hand..'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'can you say truly that you have never felt that pull towards another?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '... SAHIB?!? and... ?!?!'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'Oh, I did not mean to imply that you thought of him that way. Though some do think of their gods romantically. I meant as a child..say around 13 or so? Even if you did not think of kissing him..everyone has a little infatuation at some point!'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*blinks in stupified shock*'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'or not?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'But.. but... he.. says... he...calls me his daughter!'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'Oh dear, I feel that this has gotten very confusing. No, no, Samiyah. I did not mean that about Lord Seraph.'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*takes a deep breath of relief*'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'there is more than one sort of pull. You can be drawn to someone in ways that are not romantic'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '.. I do not have romantic feelings for Ghazkull... I just.. wondered.. what it would be like if he kissed me... is all.. I had hurt my lip, and .. he says I smell like pastry since he drank my blood to become a vampire and that he wants it all the time..'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'well then, there are really 3 options:
Aoide tells you (in common), '1. Kiss him and have your curiosity answered.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), '2. Forget about it.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), '3. Keep stewing over it until it drives you crazy'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*bursts into giggles*'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'Number three sounds like most like me!'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'yes, and it sounds like the worst option, because in the end you'll have to go back to 1 or 2 after spending a lot of time not dealing with it'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '*sighs* As always, you have given me much to think about it.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'well that was only the first of the troubles'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'you have had quite the week it seems'.
You tell Aoide (in common), '...I think.. I need to forget about it. Because Ghazkull was married, and he still misses his lost lady... and kissing someone else might hurt him.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'it may, yes. Or not. Since as you say, there is nothing behind it'.
Venomous
(log by Sami)
Venom arrives from the north.
Venom makes a complicated-looking gesture.
Venom draws a funny looking rune on Tross.
Venom looks at Tross.
Samiyah glares at you from over her veil, her almond eyes narrowed.
You say (in common), 'YOU LEAVE HER ALONE'.
Tross bows deeply.
Venom bows deeply.
Tross says (in common), 'Hi Venom'.
Tross frowns at what you did.
Samiyah leaps to her feet standing between Tross and Venom.
Venom says (in common), 'Greetings, tom-boy.'.
Samiyah grits her teeth, realizing she has spoken aloud to the vampire, yet again violating Seraph's command.
Samiyah sighs angrily, her hands clenched at her sides.
Venom dismisses Samiyah as a parent would a child, 'I like it here, the herbalist has a wonderful aloe for my skin'
Samiyah sputters at the thought of sharing a home city with the venomous one.
Venom says (in common), 'I may relocate'.
You shove him across the room.
Venom omphs!
Tross rubs the back of his neck.
Venom grins evilly, his elongated fangs glistening.
Tross looks twice at the view of fangs.
Tross looks at Venom.
Venom beams a smile at Tross.
Tross stifles the obvious observation about being a vampire.
Tross says (in common), '.. is it neat?'.
Venom says (in common), 'It's the only way to fly.'.
Tross says (in common), 'I'm more used to water'.
Venom says (in common), 'It does, however, have some downsides.'.
Samiyah does not lessen her defensive posture in front of Tross, despite some confused glances at the friendly conversation.
Venom subconsciously rubs his scarred neck.
Tross stops rubbing his neck as he notices Venom doing similar.
Tross says (in common), 'what are those?'.
Venom looks at Tross.
Venom says (in common), 'Scars from the bite of the one who made me. Apparently some form of mark of ownership'.
Venom spits.
Samiyah looks at Tross.
Samiyah looks at Venom.
Venom says (in common), 'Tross... I believe you may need my assistance'.
Tross says (in common), 'er.. Like a slave? They had those at some of the ports we visited... but you don't look like them at all.'.
Venom says (in common), 'No, not like a slave.'.
Venom sits down and thinks deeply.
Venom says (in common), 'I think...'.
You say (in common), 'Please, Tross... I know that ..'.
Samiyah stumbles over the words.
You say (in common), 'Lord Wish and Lady DarkClaw are allies.. But please, please, please, do NOT trust this one. Please do not go anywhere with him. or accept his help. If you need help, I will do whatever you need.'.
Venom says (in common), 'Tross... Allow me to ask a question?'.
Tross looks back and forth between the two.
Tross says (in common), 'sure'.
Venom says (in common), 'If something were wrong with you.. and you were ill, let's just say. And you had a friend that knew about this illness.. But you yourself did not know. Would it not be helpful of this friend to inform you, or perhaps even help you'.
You get a greyish potion with yellow swirls from a sack of ill-gotten loot.
Tross says (in common), 'well maybe not helpful, but that's what a friend would usually do. Unless its better not to know, that happens.'.
You give a greyish potion with yellow swirls to Tross.
Venom says (in common), 'It's always better to face the truth dear.'.
Venom says (in common), 'Always'.
Aoide arrives from the north.
Venom bows before Aoide.
Aoide looks around, surprised.
Tross says (in common), 'how come you're bringing that up?'.
Samiyah's tone is desperate. 'Tross... please.. just.. be careful.'
Venom says (in common), 'I just wanted your take on the matter, nothing more.'.
Aoide tells you (in common), '(whispering) should I leave?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'no.. venom is being creepy'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'so what's new?'.
You tell Aoide (in common), 'and I am forbidden to talk to him'.
Aoide tells you (in common), 'ah'.
Tross says (in common), '..careful of what, Sami? *said quietly to her*'.
Tross looks a bit confused.
Samiyah whispers, '.. one that I know said that they made the beast of two backs and she could not stop him from doing it.'
Venom says (in common), 'Who is more likely to hurt a young follow of Lord Wish (evil), me an ally.. or the High Order (good) sworn to destroy evil?'.
Aoide says (in common), 'wait, wait'.
Tross casts a strange look at Sami, looking far more, not less, confused.
Aoide says (in common), 'who is hurting Tross?'.
Tross says (in common), 'No one's hurting me.'.
You say (in common), 'no one, yet, and I want to make sure it does not happen that way!'.
Venom says (in common), 'I stand accused of posing some form of threat.'.
Tross says (in common), 'And no one's going to... well, some things probably will, but you know what I mean. Everyone gets licked sometimes.'.
Venom says (in common), 'If anyone poses a threat to the well being of an Alchemist, it's the diseased brains of the High Order.'.
Samiyah glares at you from over her veil, her almond eyes narrowed.
Samiyah glances down at her shoe for a moment, then recovers her composure, visibly repeating a mantra to herself.
Tross says (in common), 'what's a beast of two backs?'.
Samiyah blushes, ducking her head and concealing her face in one of the layers of her veil.
Samiyah gestures vaguely, 'when... er.. two people are married... they... except.. they were NOT...'
Venom says (in common), 'You want to know what it seems like to me Samiyah... Everytime I happen by you, you are rubbing elbows with evils.'.
Venom says (in common), '(is pharuin some sort of idiot?)'.
Samiyah looks at you curiously, raising one eyebrow.
You say (in common), '(what did I miss? The answer to the question is - yes, oftentimes )'.
Aoide blinks.
Aoide says (in common), 'I'm sorry, is he what?'.
Venom says (in common), '(he's canting about us like a moron)'.
You say (in common), '(oh. I don't have cant)'.
You shrug.
Samiyah hopes to see a log.
Samiyah purses her lips tightly to keep from speaking, and simply glares at Venom.
Venom says (in common), 'I wonder how Lord Seraph feels about your insistence on spending time with evils. I thought it was his creed to destroy us all...'.
Venom says (in common), '(uh oh, the immortal warnings have started)'.
You say (in common), '(er, about what? the obnoxious canting?)'.
Venom nods in recognition to you.
Samiyah looks at the two women, and gives them a happy smile.
Aoide smiles at you.
Samiyah turns away from Venom and looks at Aoide, reaching out and catching her hand, squeezing it briefly.
Aoide says (in common), 'Shall we change the subject? Or should I ask Venom here what threat he is being to Tross?'.
Venom says (in common), 'You are free to ask.'.
Tross says (in common), 'really guys, it's okay. I can take care of myself, and he's one of the lost anyway.'.
Venom says (in common), 'The truth is, I am no threat to tross.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'Of course you can, Tross. And of course you're not. There. That's all settled. Let's have no more talk of anyone hurting Tross. Or of Samiyah and evils. Or oh'.
Aoide snorts a laugh.
Tross says (in common), 'I'm kindof curious about disease though. Why'd you ask about it?'.
Aoide says (in common), 'or of two-backed beasts'.
Samiyah blushes, ducking her head and concealing her face in one of the layers of her veil.
Venom says (in common), 'Disease and two-backed beasts can at times be the same topic. But I digress.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'oh man. Yes, let's not digress'.
Tross blinks suddenly and laughs.
Tross says (in common), 'you mean people gettin' laid?'.
Aoide snickers softly.
Aoide nods in recognition to Tross.
Aoide says (in common), 'I think that's what she meant, yes'.
Venom says (in common), 'I would much prefer to discuss the desert.'.
Samiyah's gaze snaps back to Venom, as he knew it would, at his words.
Aoide sneaks a peek at Samiyah to see what she thinks.
Tross says (in common), 'is that the 'careful' way people phrase it where you're from, Sami?'.
Samiyah nods to both Aoide and Tross.
Venom says (in common), 'I was wondering if any of you knew the meaning of the word... 'Bayt.
Samiyah grits her teeth and turns her back on Venom, her hands shaking.
Samiyah leaves north.
You tell Tross (in common), '*quietly* I am in our spot.'.
Tross arrives from below.
Tross says (in common), '.. you ok?'.
You say (in common), 'He's been to the desert. He's seen where I go, when I have to cry.
That's where that word is. I carved it on a rock there.'.
Tross says (in common), 'whats it mean?'.
You say (in common), '"home."'.
Tross frowns.
Tross says (in common), '.. You're upset because he's watched you cry?'.
You shudder from the sheer thought of it.
You say (in common), 'I hope he hasn't!?! No, it's.. It .. it is as if he climbed this tree when we were not here, and sneered about it.'.
Tross says (in common), '... I guess I still don't get it. Maybe you can explain to Aoide and me both?'.
You say (in common), 'Maybe it is a desert thing. A sense of place being .. special and belonging just to you and feeling .. wronged.. if someone else was there, amongst your things'.
Tross says (in common), 'Oh, I guess that makes sense.'.
You say (in common), 'Especially if it's someone you hate..'.
You say (in common), 'or.. '.
Samiyah admits, 'Are a little scared of..'
Tross says (in common), 'you shouldn't run from him like that though, if you really hate him -especially- if you're scared of him.'.
You say (in common), 'I am not permitted to talk to him. But I keep doing it, so I get to the point where I cannot help but say something, and I want to leave so I obey Sahib at least a little. so I leave.'.
Tross grins evilly.
Tross says (in common), 'are you ready to come back? We abandoned aoide there'.
You say (in common), 'oh. Is he gone?'.
Tross says (in common), 'I don't see him, but I guess I don't know.'.
You say (in common), 'let's find out. And if he isn't, I'll shove him again.'.
Bayt
The Riverhold Town Hall and School
[Exits: north south]
(Light Red Aura) Aoide is here.
Singing under her breath, Elvalee prepares the next lesson.
You smile at her.
Aoide smiles happily.
Aoide says (in common), 'he's gone now'.
Tross arrives from the north.
Tross rests.
Aoide beams a smile at Tross.
Aoide says (in common), 'I'm sorry if I made things worse.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'How are you feeling?'.
Aoide looks at Samiyah nervously.
You say (in common), 'I did not want to disobey Sahib yet MORE.. so I had to leave else say something.'.
Aoide comforts you.
You say (in common), 'the word he used - bayt - is 'home'. He found the spot I go to when I am sad and need to cry.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'Oh. So I imagine that is no longer a safe place to be sad.'.
You nod.
Samiyah looks vaguely ill as she realizes she has been without veil for all of Venom's intrusion.
You tell Venom (in common), '(oh shit, I almost forgot! She was *unveiled* )'.
Venom tells you (in common), 'bru ha ha'.
Venom tells you (in common), '(I sees ur face!)'.
You tell Venom (in common), '(yep. She's pretty plain. Small scar on the left side of her face, cutting through her lip. Wide mouth. wide nose. Nothing pretty, except her eyes.)'.
Venom tells you (in common), '(interesting...)'.
Selff gossips (in common), 'Seeking my third review!'.
Aoide coughs.
Aoide says (in common), 'somehow I've missed the first two'.
Aoide says (in common), 'he certainly levels quickly'.
You nod.
You say (in common), 'shall we go attend?'.
Aoide says (in common), 'Yes, I think so'.
Aoide leaves south.
You say (in common), 'Tross?'.
You say (in common), 'what do you think?'.
Tross says (in common), 'attend what?'.
You say (in common), 'Bard Council'.
Tross says (in common), 'Oh, sure'.
Samiyah winds her veil carefully over her hair and face, pinning it in place with shaking hands.
Samiyah leaves south.
Ebrithil First
(Log by Ghazkull)
DarkClaw ftells, 'Hello, Ghaz.'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, 'You may not wish to come into the temple.'.
You ftell, '*grin*'.
You pray, 'ok'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, 'HE is here.'.
You pray, 'I've been thinking about that'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, 'And you are going to share your thoughts. *Not a question*'.
You pray, 'my issue with Him is more of a 'personal' matter if you will, therefore, for the sake of the Lost, I will deal with him in matters regarding the Lost'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, '*nods, offering a smile* That is sufficient. Thank you. I don't ask for you to like him.'.
You pray, 'that and he still has it in for Sami it appears *growl*'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, '*sigh* I don't think he wishes her harm really.'.
You pray, 'his title suggests otherwise'.
You pray, 'according to Sami at least'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, 'His title may not be directed at her, but another.'.
You ftell, 'Venom, you have a moment?'.
Venom ftells, 'I do.'.
You ftell, '*takes a breath* I'm not going to apologize for the way I have been with you recently, but I have made a decision.'.
Venom ftells, '*nods calmly with acceptance*'.
You ftell, 'It doesn't become one of Star's Ebrithil, to ignore a fellow Lost member, therefore'.
You ftell, 'in matters pertaining to the Lost, I will offer counsel and aid where it is required'.
Venom ftells, '*ponders and thoughtfully responds* It is also unbecoming of me to abuse my welcome here in the ways I have.'.
Venom ftells, 'I however am not a perfect creature'.
You ftell, 'none of us are'.
Venom ftells, 'And so it is. *bow*'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*blinks, then narrows her gaze thoughtfully*'.
Temple of the Lost
[Exits: west]
A large eye hovers in mid-air here, emitting a soft, purple glow.
(Intense Dark Purple Aura) [GS] DarkClaw is here.
You pray, 'His response shocked me a bit to tell you the truth'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, '...Me too. *bites her lip*'.
DarkClaw [GS] tells you, 'I just...can't imagine him feeling guilty about it.'.
Venom ftells, 'I will be going now, have a good night'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Venom...'.
Venom ftells, 'Yes?'.
DarkClaw ftells, '...Have a good evening.'.
Venom ftells, 'And you as well Madam.'.
DarkClaw sighs heavily.
DarkClaw slumps against the Eye for support.
You say (in elven), 'you need to give the temple a bit of a sprucing, clear out some of the bad energy'.
DarkClaw whispers, "I can still smell him."
You sigh.
You say (in elven), 'that's another reason why you need to spruce the place up a bit'.
You say (in elven), 'want some incense?'.
DarkClaw says, 'He toys with me. He knows I struggle with this.'.
You say (in elven), 'might help get rid of the smell'.
DarkClaw looks indecisive.
You say (in elven), 'or at least make it a bit more bearable'.
You say (in elven), 'or should I say, easier to deal with?'.
DarkClaw hesitates, then nods once.
You nod.
You say (in elven), 'I shall go get the incense in a moment'.
DarkClaw says, 'Thank you.'.
You say (in elven), 'on the other matter'.
DarkClaw says, 'What other matter?'.
You say (in elven), 'I don't think he does feel guilty'.
You say (in elven), 'for his actions'.
You say (in elven), 'but I think he realized that he was tearing parts of the Lost apart with it'.
You shrug.
You say (in elven), 'who knows'.
DarkClaw says, 'Perhaps...yet he continues.'.
You say (in elven), 'ah, but you are beating him now'.
DarkClaw murmurs, "I'm not so sure."
You raise your eyebrow.
Cresom gossips (in common), 'Evil ones I have started drinking beer'.
DarkClaw gossips, '*laugh*'.
Cresom gossips (in common), 'you will have to leave fairly soon'.
Cresom gossips (in common), 'before I do something stupid and die'.
Cresom gossips (in common), 'thank you'.
You say (in elven), 'I have a long journey ahead of me, can we finish this while I am on the move'.
DarkClaw says, 'Of course. There's really not much else to say.'.
DarkClaw shrugs.
You nod.
You hug her.
(He travels to..)
The entrance to the Citadel
[Exits: south down]
This ancient tunnel is filled with dust, as few ever pass this way.
The tunnel leads south, towards the smelty, and drops steeply down
into the ruins of the Citadel.
> c loc incense
Nothing like that in hell, earth, or heaven.
> c loc incense
DarkClaw ftells, 'I have to edit tonight's logs. Hehe.'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Joy'.
You ftell, 'oh how I wish I could summon'.
You ftell, '*snicker*'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Why?'.
You ftell, 'finding this mob would be so much easier'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*grin*'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*nod*'.
> c loc incense
A glowing stick of incense carried by someone.
The Incense of Enlightenment in someplace mysterious.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Please don't tell Belg I'm struggling, Ghaz.'.
You ftell, 'Why would I want to hurt him further?'.
You ftell, 'YOU should tell him though'.
You ftell, 'although wording it a bit better might help'.
You ftell, 'heh'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*sighs and whispers* I can't.'.
You ftell, 'You need to be honest with him, Star'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'He will leave me, Ghaz!'.
You ftell, 'the fact that you have not done anything goes in your favour, I imagine it is like giving up a drug, you will get withdrawal'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'If I utter one word of that.'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'I...fed from him last night...'.
You ftell, 'now i'm getting frustrated trying to find this mob'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Left him bleeding on the temple floor.'.
You ftell, 'from whom?'.
Plaza Perimeter Walkway
[Exits: north east]
It is black as Oblivion here. Rubble from Iridium Avenue has rained
down here, burying the area in debris. The rose marble walkway goes
on, continuing to the north and east.
Samiyah tells you (in common), '*quietly* .. Hello.'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'From me...*softly* I didn't close the wounds. It was...a punishment.'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'I have NEVER done that before.'.
You ftell, '*ponders your words*'.
You tell Samiyah (in elven), '*smiles* how are you today?'.
Samiyah tells you (in common), '*softly, her tone making a lie of the words* I am fine, and you?'.
You tell Samiyah (in elven), '*frowns at something he hears in the voice, but says nothing* I am wandering around a ruined citadel, looking for something that I _know_ exists, but can't find'.
Square of the Grande Plaza
[Exits: (south) (west) up]
The Plaza here is pristine ... clean, unblemished, resplendent ...
except for the occasional hole winding downward ... as if dug into
the floor by some burrowing beast. Nonetheless, some intelligence,
some sentient is maintaining this quadrant of the Plaza ... if you
only knew who ...
A juvenile chthonian tries to burrow into the ground here.
A juvenile chthonian tries to burrow into the ground here.
Samiyah arrives from the south.
Samiyah says (in common), 'what are you looking for?'.
You say (in elven), 'incense, my Sister needs to get rid of a lingering smell. I know it's here somewhere'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'oh. That's in N'Kai.'.
You say (in elven), 'below?'.
Samiyah nods.
Ghazkull gulps.
Samiyah leaves west.
Belsambar tells you (in common), '...'.
You tell Belsambar (in elven), '?'.
You tell someone (in elven), 'what info did you just pick up?'.
Belsambar tells you (in common), 'I caught an info, and the number of ways it can be taken out of context are astonishing'.
You tell Belsambar (in elven), 'lingering smell?'.
Belsambar tells you (in common), ':P'.
Samiyah yells (in common), 'come along :)'.
Belsambar tells you (in common), 'yeah'.
End of the Granite Cavern
[Exits: south down]
This is the Last Bore, the tunnel that connected the Plaza to the
black caverns of N'Kai. Strong winds howl here, flowing into small
holes in the ground. The source of the winds is a mystery - there
SHOULDN'T be any wind ... yet it rages like a storm here ...
A Marker Slab has been erected in the center of the room.
The Sigil Draktha floats in the air here, warding the cave below.
(Dark Blue Aura) (*Enemy*) Samiyah is here.
Samiyah leaves down.
Cave Conjoining N'Kai
[Exits: north]
You are below the Sigil Draktha, near N'Kai the Black. You
have no escape but to go onward, for the Barrier seals you
within here just as forcefully as it does the Spawn. Bones
lie scattered about, strewn above a dried pool of blood.
A Message has been scrawled on the bloody floor.
(Dark Blue Aura) (*Enemy*) Samiyah is here.
Ghazkull gulps.
Samiyah leaves north.
An Air-Blasted Ledge
[Exits: (north) east south west (up)]
Incessant winds lash at this ledge, whistling and shrieking,
somehow pulling instead of pushing, trying to yank you away,
into the Gale above. Bones litter the ground, seemingly part
of the very rock.
(Dark Blue Aura) (*Enemy*) Samiyah is here.
Samiyah says (in common), 'would you cast fly on me, please?'.
> c fly samiyah
Samiyah's feet rise off the ground.
Samiyah leaves north.
You ftell, 'mobs in n'kai con as perfect to me now'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Very nice.'.
A Calm Cave
[Exits: south]
This cave is calm, windless, and, best of all, DRY. You sigh
at the serenity, the first you have found in this monstrous,
insane Cavern.
Yet you can't help but sense the horrors are here as well...
(Dark Blue Aura) (*Enemy*) Samiyah is here, fighting an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
(Light Red Aura) an Ebon Young of N'Kai is here, fighting Samiyah.
Samiyah's elbow strike devastates an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
Samiyah's head butt devastates an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
Samiyah's front kick maims an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
Samiyah's armor deflects an Ebon Young of N'Kai's attack.
Samiyah deftly moves out of the way of an Ebon Young of N'Kai's attack.
Samiyah deftly moves out of the way of an Ebon Young of N'Kai's attack.
Samiyah makes a complicated-looking gesture.
Samiyah's vampiric touch maims an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
Samiyah looks at an Ebon Young of N'Kai's fighting style and smirks.
Samiyah's armor deflects an Ebon Young of N'Kai's attack.
Samiyah evades an Ebon Young of N'Kai's attack.
Samiyah's jump side kick maims an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
An Ebon Young of N'Kai is DEAD!!
You hear an Ebon Young of N'Kai's death cry.
Samiyah gets 220 gold coins from the corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
Samiyah nods.
The corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai contains:
(Glowing) the Incense of Enlightenment
You bow deeply.
Samiyah says (in common), 'this incense.. It is good for you to know about for another reason. It grants enlightenment. I used it as part of the ritual to break Venom's charm on Sycora'.
You say (in elven), 'it seems I am finally able to visit here on my own, carefully of course'.
You nod.
You say (in elven), 'funnily enough, it is his stink we seek to remove'.
You get the Incense of Enlightenment from the corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
Samiyah claps a hand over her mouth to stifle a giggle.
Samiyah continues to avoid looking directly at you, but smiles as you take what you needed.
Of Kisses and Pastry
(Log by Ghazkull)
You say (in elven), 'Sami...'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'yes?'.
Ghazkull says slowly, 'I.. would be lying if I said the thought hadn't crossed my mind'
Samiyah glances sidelong, an expression of shock and surprise on her face.
DarkClaw ftells, 'I think I'm going to log for the night.'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'I'm exhausted, and I have a new book to start.'.
You say (in elven), 'but I understand your feelings on the matter, and I am happy being your friend, if that is what your choice'.
You ftell, 'I umm'.
You ftell, 'have the incense'.
You ftell, 'and'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Oh!'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'I thought you had forgotten.'.
You ftell, 'I just told Sami'.
DarkClaw ftells, '...You just told Sami what?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Three people that.. I trust.. or trusted.. and.. all of them have told me, to varying degrees, that I am a ninny.'.
You ftell, 'what we spoke about earlier in the temple'.
You say (in elven), 'for what reason?'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*wide-eyed, somewhat frantic* ABOUT MY STRUGGLE?!?'.
You ftell, 'no'.
You ftell, 'about the other thing'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*closes her eyes and droops in relief* About the scent of him...'.
You ftell, 'well, that too'.
You ftell, 'about ME and her...'.
DarkClaw ftells, '*blink* OHHHH!'.
You ftell, 'in N'Kai of all places *eyeroll*'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Come. Tell me about it.'.
You ftell, 'we are still talking'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'but I also had the thought that you have but recently set aside the jewel you carried, and that made the thought even yet more inappropriate... no one seems to think that kissing is .. is haraam. Or a bad idea... except me, that is. Sahib said it was because I was a woman. Say..er, Lady DarkClaw said the same, and Aoide said my brain would spin until I put it out of it or did it.'.
You nod.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. I feel very foolish right now and I would like to run away and hide.'.
Ghazkull laughs gently, 'as do I'
DarkClaw ftells, 'I see. *pause* Does she seem comfortable around you now?'.
You ftell, 'i'm not sure'.
Samiyah looks down at her clasped hands. "it was only a thought.."
You nod.
An Ebon Young of N'Kai lights the Incense of Enlightenment and holds it.
Samiyah says (in common), 'one moment'.
(snip)
An Ebon Young of N'Kai is DEAD!!
You hear an Ebon Young of N'Kai's death cry.
Samiyah says (in common), '... it's Venom. It might take two sticks.'.
You laugh.
DarkClaw ftells, '*laughs, overhearing Sami's words*'.
You get the Incense of Enlightenment from the corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
> look samiyah
Samiyah catches your eyes turning towards hers, and looks at her feet, not at your face.
Samiyah gnaws on her lower lip in indecision and discomfort.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. maybe three sticks.'.
You say (in elven), '2 will be plenty i'm sure'.
Samiyah glances at you sideways. 'It is Venom, after all.'
You say (in elven), 'although a 3rd might help me with another matter'.
Samiyah nods.
You say (in elven), 'I like this place'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. it is a bit creepy for my tastes..'.
You nod.
You say (in elven), 'I thought so too at first'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I like the open sky. This .. enclosed.. makes me nervous... do you have a place you go, when you need to be alone?'.
Ghazkull whispers, 'home'
Samiyah says (in common), '..I cannot get home. So I go to the closest spot. I go there when I need to cry. I carved one of the rocks with the word in my language for 'home.’ Today, Venom asked me what that word meant... he has been there.'.
You blink.
You say (in elven), 'I wish I could tell you what he was up to'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I don't know. It makes me feel so angry, and he ..'.
You say (in elven), 'do not get angry around him, he feeds off of your emotions, that much I am certain of'.
Samiyah quietly admits, 'He frightens me. Which is ridiculous because I could squash him like a bug. But the Say.. er.. Lady.. said that .. she .. his advances were .. forced.. she couldn't resist.. and it has me a little frightened that he is a one that .. forces... himself.. on women... I am not pretty, so I am not terribly worried he would ... but.. there are others, who are, and .. if he is such a one, they must be warned.'.
You ponder the question.
You say (in elven), 'I think a lot of people are aware of how he is by now. He has not been... quiet about his ways, shall we say?'.
Samiyah says softly, 'I hope so.'
Samiyah shifts uncomfortably. 'He saw my face today, bare. I was talking with Tross and eating an apple, and he slunk in.'
Ghazkull gasps at this news, 'Oh, Sami...'
DarkClaw ftells, 'I need sleep. :-('.
You ftell, 'would you like me to sacrifice the incense? or save it until tomorrow'.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Please...do it before I change my mind.'.
Samiyah nods.
(snip)
An Ebon Young of N'Kai is DEAD!!
Samiyah gets 22 gold coins from the corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
You get the Incense of Enlightenment from the corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
You say (in elven), 'have you eaten? I heard a rumor that Bards do not require sustenance, but it is rumor only'.
You ftell, 'You are welcome, Sister'.
You ftell, 'use it wisely'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'there are two ways we don't: A lyrical, and reaching level 30 in our combat class'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'so .. I do not, no. Actually, I am _unable_ to eat. Quite the opposite problem you have.'.
You laugh.
You say (in elven), 'that is an understatement'.
You say (in elven), 'ah... speaking of reaching level 30 in classes, how is your final performance coming along?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'it is.. going along. I am thinking about writing about the seasons.'.
Her voice seems entirely unenthusiastic.
You ponder the question.
You say (in elven), 'you don't sound so sure?'.
Samiyah confesses, “I don't really have an idea that I'm excited about.’
You say (in elven), 'hmm'.
Samiyah glances over at you, briefly.
Samiyah says (in common), '... were you being kind, before? Or doing a trickery?'.
You say (in elven), 'with what I said?'.
Samiyah nods.
You shake your head.
You say (in elven), 'I wouldn't lie to you, Sami. I have said as much to my sister, we spoke recently about it'.
Samiyah says (in common), '... oh.'.
Samiyah seems quite surprised.
DarkClaw ftells, 'Have a good night, Ghaz.. *hugs*'.
You ftell, 'Good Night *hugs*'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. because there was blood? And I smell like pastry?'.
Samiyah pauses and thinks for a moment, a slight frown creasing her brow.
You laugh.
You say (in elven), 'there's that analogy again'.
Samiyah smiles a little bit.
You say (in elven), 'It's difficult to explain. The night of my change I, didn't want to see you afterwards to begin with. I... was afraid'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I wouldn't have hurt you.. I could barely walk.'.
You say (in elven), 'I didn't want you to see what I thought I might become'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I can understand that.'.
You say (in elven), '(sorry for OOC but I just got a popup spam mail on my screen saying "Will you kiss me" hehe)'.
You say (in elven), '(made me laugh a bit, considering the current topic)'.
Samiyah grins happily.
Samiyah nods.
Samiyah nods.
Samiyah says (in common), '(the universe is telling you something!)'.
An Ebon Young of N'Kai lights the Incense of Enlightenment and holds it.
(snip)
An Ebon Young of N'Kai is DEAD!!
You hear an Ebon Young of N'Kai's death cry.
Samiyah gets 84 gold coins from the corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
You say (in elven), 'You hardly knew me, yet you gave your lifesblood to me willingly, and without hesitation.'.
Samiyah says simply, 'You needed help.'
You nod.
You say (in elven), 'yet you were the only one that offered.'.
Samiyah frowns slightly, remembering.
You say (in elven), 'but it wasn't until our conversation in the amphitheatre, when you came to me with Seraph's question, when you showed me your face for the first time that the thought came into my head.'.
Samiyah blinks.
Samiyah says (in common), '..that long ago?'.
Samiyah scuffs her foot on the floor. 'You are much better at not thinking about things than I am.'
Ghazkull shakes his head, 'I doubt that, greatly.'
You say (in elven), 'I thought about it a lot, I have been married, as you know.'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'well, you haven't been acting like a flustered chicken, squawking about, like I did.'.
You ponder the question.
You say (in elven), 'in my head, I have been. I live in my own head quite a bit, to tell you the truth. There has been a lot going on with the Lost Ones recently'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Sahib says that for a thought to enter my head, it is on my face, and it is good that I am veiled all the time for that reason. That books are harder to read than my face.'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. I have.. heard.. of ..'.
Samiyah stumbles over the words. 'Some of the troubles..'
Ghazkull smiles slightly, 'Next time you see my sister, ask her about it, she admonished me greatly when she found out what happened outside the Coral Cave.
Samiyah looks down. "I will not be speaking to the Lady DarkClaw anymore. And you didn't do anything wrong. All of the wrong actions were mine. I threw my shoe, not you.'.
You say (in elven), 'I was referring to when you told me of the 'thought.
Samiyah says (in common), 'why would she admonish you?'.
Samiyah says (in common), '... oh.'.
You say (in elven), 'although I think that was on the temple steps'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Why ... That doesn't.. you didn't do anything wrong.'.
You say (in elven), 'you took me by surprise, I froze, and you left, thinking you had offended me.'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. and it didn't? .. offend?'.
You shake your head.
You say (in elven), 'I froze because I had been having the same thought'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. home, a girl would be horsewhipped for saying such a thing... and for throwing my shoe, I would have been stoned.'.
Ghazkull says softly, looking directly at you, 'You are not in the desert anymore Sami...'
You say (in elven), 'There will be no horsewhipping, or stonings. Well, unless Sabella is involved somehow'.
Ghazkull shakes his head to clear that thought away.
Samiyah glances down, her gaze shifting away from yours for a moment, then makes herself look back. "No. I am not. But it .. it is still inside me."
Samiyah says (in common), 'who is Sabella? I do not know that person. Was she horsewhipped?'.
You shake your head.
An Ebon Young of N'Kai lights the Incense of Enlightenment and holds it.
(snip)
An Ebon Young of N'Kai is DEAD!!
You hear an Ebon Young of N'Kai's death cry.
Samiyah gets 120 gold coins from the corpse of an Ebon Young of N'Kai.
Ghazkull tries to think of a way to explain Sabella.
Samiyah blinks.
Samiyah says (in common), 'That name is a word in my language.'.
You say (in elven), 'I don't know how to describe Sabella in a way you would understand, I believe she originally came from the desert too.'.
Samiyah blinks.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I thought I ... '.
Samiyah's brow furrows as she frowns, looking troubled.
You say (in elven), 'I know that she worshipped the Lich, when he was in power.'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'who is that?'.
You say (in elven), 'Molo'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I have never heard that name.'.
You blink.
You say (in elven), 'he was the Leader of the Black Conclave of Nashite'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Oh!'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'That I have heard about.'.
Ghazkull snaps his fingers suddenly, 'Sabella... think of all of the... haraam.. did I say that correctly? thoughts that a woman could have regarding a man'
Samiyah says (in common), 'Yes, you said it right. She is all haraam?'.
You say (in elven), 'I guess you could say that she is the embodiment of those thoughts'.
Samiyah blinks in unease.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Oh.'.
You say (in elven), 'in our tongue, we would say... Whore, I guess, although she will probably flay me within an inch of my life for saying so'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Well, I will not tell her you said so, if I ever meet her, so she will never know.'.
Samiyah glances pointedly around the empty chamber.
You say (in elven), 'Thank You'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. and she is from the desert?!'.
Samiyah shakes her head in disbelief.
You say (in elven), 'I believe so. There is one, who could probably tell you more than you would ever wish to know about her'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. and she kisses people? I do not think it would be good to meet this haraam desert woman.'.
Ghazkull says delicately, 'to start with...'
Samiyah says (in common), 'that is what DarkClaw said... that sometimes bad things start with kisses..'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'and it is what has been going through my mind the most.'.
You sigh.
You say (in elven), 'yes, it is true. But that is where trust comes into it'.
Samiyah says softly, 'I have learned lately that I have not done well with trusting the right people.'
Samiyah says (in common), 'Sa..Lord Wish.. Lady DarkClaw..'.
You say (in elven), 'with regards to my Sister, she is trying to make amends for what she did. Belgarion has forgiven her'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. in the desert, their arms and legs would be tied to four different camels, and the camels whipped until they were torn to pieces.. it is a very horrible death... and I do not want to die like that.'.
You say (in elven), 'who decides what is ... haraam...'.
Samiyah answers promptly, 'Sahib Salam.'
You say (in elven), 'and who does Sahib Salam answer to?'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. Sahib...'.
Samiyah nods.
Samiyah says (in common), 'just so, yes.'.
An Ebon Young of N'Kai lights the Incense of Enlightenment and holds it.
(snip)
An Ebon Young of N'Kai is DEAD!!
You hear an Ebon Young of N'Kai's death cry.
whoz
Ghazkull says, knowing the answer but asking the question anyway, 'and what has Seraph said on the matter?'
Samiyah says (in common), 'That I am a woman and will think of such things, that the desert is not our home any more, and that it is time I grew in other ways.'.
You say (in elven), 'then such a thing is surely not... haraam, as decreed by your Sahib?'.
Samiyah looks troubled. 'He said ,'This ONCE' it was not. Which seems to say that there are times it is. And I do not have the wisdom to understand the difference.’
You nod.
Samiyah says (in common), 'When does it lead to .. haraam wickedness, such as the Lady did..and when is it .. setting aside fear, and learning new things?'.
You ponder the question.
You say (in elven), 'the Lady is... different to you, and much, much older than I. She restrained herself to the point that she couldn't contain it any longer. I make no excuses for her, but that is the way of it. Venom is extremely silver-tongued, and said the right thing at the right time'.
Samiyah looks over at you, taking a deep breath, starts to say something, but at Venom's name, visibly retreats and stares back down at her hands.
Samiyah nods.
You say (in elven), 'had Belgarion not been away for a long time, attending to outworldly things that kept him from the realm, this whole situation may not ever have come about'.
Samiyah nods.
You say (in elven), 'would you believe me, if I told you that he even asked me for help in the matter?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'On what to do? or how not to do a thing he should not?'.
You say (in elven), 'He asked me to think of something he could give to my sister as a gift'.
Samiyah says quietly, seeming a non-sequitor, 'Cresom said that boys were not to be trusted, except him and Sahib, and I told him I thought you were.'
You say (in elven), 'what did he say to that?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'That he would have to learn about you and find out for himself.'.
You smile happily.
You say (in elven), 'I like your brother. He is a wise man'.
Samiyah breaks into a genuine smile and nods.
You say (in elven), 'he owes me a trip to a lighthouse somewhere. Perhaps we will get to know one another better then'.
Samiyah shivers uncomfortably.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I would go with you both to help, if I could...'.
You nod.
An Ebon Young of N'Kai lights the Incense of Enlightenment and holds it.
You ponder the question.
You say (in elven), 'I thought these things were aggressive'.
Samiyah shakes her head.
Samiyah says quietly, 'I trust you. I know I have trusted badly lately, but.. I .. I do.'
You nod.
You say (in elven), 'I know, when trust is broken it can be very damaging.'.
Samiyah nods.
You say (in elven), 'it can make you question trust you have placed in others, even if they have given you no reason to.'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Yes, that's it exactly! And you feel angry, and everything around you is much brighter and worse than it was, and every little thing becomes big, and you wind up throwing shoes!'.
Samiyah sighs loudly.
Samiyah says (in common), 'which was a VERY VERY bad thing to do.'.
You say (in elven), 'did you get in trouble for it?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Wish was _furious_!! He shouted and I shouted back and then he shouted more and Sahib shouted, "Samiyah, ENOUGH"' and I put my nose on the floor again and stayed there, all night.'.
Ghazkull says softly, 'Sami...'
Ghazkull continues, 'what happened the last time you were disrespectful to an immortal?'
Samiyah says (in common), 'I was put in the place-of-snow.'.
You nod.
You say (in elven), 'it seems so long ago now'.
Samiyah nods.
You say (in elven), 'I could have ended up in there not so long ago'.
Samiyah glances at you in surprise, curiosity clear, but not wanting to pry, she does not ask.
You say (in elven), 'when I disrespected your Sahib regarding your punishment for attempting to aid me with the cauldron'.
Samiyah nods.
You say (in elven), 'in the heat of the moment, things get said that shouldn't be said, well... you know how easily that happens'.
Samiyah nods vigorously.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Ghazkull.. '.
Samiyah glances at you sidelong, biting her lower lip.
Ghazkull turns to look at you once more, eyes flicking briefly to where your lip would be beneath your veil.
Samiyah says hesitantly, trying hard to be brave. ' I.. have a curiosity. Sahib has given me the kiss of a father, on my forehead, but...'
Samiyah makes herself look at you. 'Will you show me..?'
(long pause)
Samiyah looks down at your continued silence, and starts to rise from her spot against the wall.
Ghazkull smiles slightly, but regains his composure quickly, 'If you wish it, I shall, though it has been some time'
Samiyah says (in common), 'I.. um..'.
Samiyah removes the decorative brooches holding her veil in place.
Samiyah unwinds the dark linen folds of fabric that cowl her hair.
Samiyah lifts the last drape that conceals her face.
> l samiyah
Samiyah looks at you.
Samiyah nods slightly, her voice a little shaky. 'Yes, please..'
Ghazkull leans towards you, his hand moving gently behind your head, pulling you closer.
Ghazkull whispers, 'If you are sure?'
Samiyah startles as your hand slides behind her head, her hands instinctively going to your chest with the slightest pressure pushing away, then draws them back.
Samiyah nods slightly. 'Yes.'
Ghazkull pulls you in close, his lips brushing lightly against yours, feeling your breath against his.
Samiyah turns her face up to yours, hesitantly mimicking your movement.
Samiyah's hands lower to again rest against your chest, butterfly light.
Ghazkull kisses your lips, his hand pressing slightly harder against the back of your head, increasing the pressure. His other hand moves around your back, pulling you closer.
Samiyah follows the encouragement of your hands, nestled close against you, her eyes drifting closed as she concentrates on the touch of your mouth.
Ghazkull closes his eyes, savouring the kiss, pausing briefly to whisper, mainly to himself 'It has been far too long.'
Samiyah shivers slightly, and murmurs daringly, 'Is .. I .. is that a .. hungry kiss? I could bite my lip again, if you like... ?'
Samiyah blushes and ducks her head down. 'I.. had.. heard stories about 'hungry kisses' and didn't know how or if they are different than usual ones.'
Ghazkull , trying not to laugh, uses one hand to lift your face up to his, a slight smile playing across his lips.
Samiyah bites her lower lip uncertainly, out of habit, not teasing, catches herself, and blushes.
Ghazkull whispers, 'I was being careful, I have not... kissed since my change, and this is a new experience for you'
Samiyah says (in common), 'Oh!'.
Samiyah blushes, ducking her head and concealing her face against your shirt.
Samiyah says against the cloth of your shirt, 'I suppose not many pastries go about asking for kisses.'
Ghazkull lifts your face to his once more, looks at you for a moment, then pulls you close again, his lips hungrily touching yours, increasing the pressure somewhat.
Samiyah makes a soft, 'Ohh', sighing exhalation of pleasure, her breath warm on your skin. Her lips part under the pressure of your mouth.
Ghazkull kisses you hard, a slight glow appearing around the edge of his aura, a slight moan of exhilaration escaping his lips.
Samiyah's hands tremble against your chest, her fingers splayed above where your heart would beat.
Ghazkull eases up on the pressure as he tries to regain control, the kiss becoming less urgent as the moment passes.
Samiyah gasps softly against your lips, her hands slowly sliding upward to curl around your neck, drawing you close, her mouth open to yours.
Ghazkull gently, almost disappointedly removes your hands from his neck, kissing you gently as he does so.
Ghazkull whispers breathlessly, 'Sami... we…’
Ghazkull whispers, 'we must stop'
Ghazkull murmurs, 'though believe me when I say I don't want to'
Samiyah looks down at her feet. 'Did I.. I did it wrong, didn't I?'
Ghazkull says gently, 'No, you did not do it wrong, nothing of the sort'
Samiyah blushes, but the expression is more pleased than embarrassed.
Samiyah says (in common), 'well, then. . . Thank you, for teaching me.'.
You smile at her.
Samiyah takes a respectful step back, with one last upward glance at your mouth.
Ghazkull looks at you, a look of wonder evident on his face.
Samiyah's fingertips slip up to her mouth, running one dusky fingertip over her wide lower lip.
Samiyah says (in common), '... my mouth feels.. warm. Tingly. '.
You say (in elven), 'I.. have never been kissed like that before'.
Samiyah's brows immediately lower in worry. "I thought.. but you said I did it right..??"
Ghazkull says quickly, 'It was a good kiss, I have just never had that... sensation before'
You say (in elven), 'as though the world had stopped'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Is it because it was your first kiss after being turned?'.
You say (in elven), 'I do not know'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. I begin to see how kisses can be trouble..'.
You nod.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Because I would very much like to ask you to kiss me again.'.
You shake your head.
Samiyah swallows hard, her eyes drifting up towards your mouth, then away when you refuse.
You say (in elven), 'I would like it very much, but... Seraph'.
Samiyah nods, biting her lip again, a tiny smudge of blood rising up and coloring her lip.
Samiyah bends down and catches up her discarded veil.
Ghazkull's nostrils flare slightly as the scent of the blood permeates the air.
Samiyah says softly, 'Thank you. You are .. a .. a good .. and kind.. teacher.'
You say (in elven), 'Sami...'.
Samiyah measures out the length of linen in her hands, adjusting it to the proper spot. She glances up. 'Yes?'
Ghazkull looks at you, his eyes ablaze... 'Thank you'
Samiyah colors slightly. '..For what? You did the teaching.. I just .. tried to learn. Quickly.'
Samiyah drapes the linen over her head, tucking in her braids.
Ghazkull nods softly.
Ghazkull murmurs, 'you were a very apt and quick study'
Samiyah wraps the first pass of the veil around her throat, up and over, and adjusts the drape with care.
Samiyah smiles, the expression one of delighted accomplishment. 'You are kind to say so.'
Mnaramenth gossips (in elven), 'Ghaz, you seem to be in the wrong following'.
Samiyah's brow furrows as she frowns, looking troubled.
Samiyah says (in common), 'why would he say that?'.
You say (in elven), 'I imagine we have had some eavesdroppers'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'there are no thieves.'.
You gossip (in elven), 'Oh?'.
Mnaramenth gossips (in elven), 'I recommend you reform and find Hutt when he's online, you're screwing up the motif :P Oh, Sami, didn't see you there. See, now there's two of you that don't fit *tsk tsk*'.
You ponder the question.
Samiyah glances over at you, blushing at the thought that things seemed to fit quite nicely a moment ago.
Someone gossips, 'samiyah doesn't like me enough to join me, trust me I tried'.
Ghazkull nods knowingly at Samiyah, a slight smile appearing on his lips.
Samiyah gossips (in common), '.. I have been the Sahib's, since birth, though I did not know it then. There is no other I could serve. '.
Samiyah says (in common), 'or he was just commenting on that everyone is blue aura'ed except you.'.
You say (in elven), 'aha!'.
You say (in elven), 'yes, that could be it'.
Samiyah pauses as a thought occurs, and she asks carefully, 'We can still be friends, even though you have taught me to kiss, can we not?'
Ghazkull nods thoughtfully, 'Of course we can, nothing more need be said or done about tonight if you do not wish it.'
Samiyah says (in common), 'I don't have to stop being your friend?'.
You say (in elven), 'of course not!'.
Samiyah breathes a sigh of relief.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Oh! Um..'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Do I smell any different to you, now?'.
You laugh.
Samiyah says (in common), 'well, I do not know these things! '.
You say (in elven), 'still pastries, although a much sweeter flavour than I imagined.'.
You say (in elven), 'you have a means of returning to safety?'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. walking..?'.
You give a vial of a shimmering elixir to Samiyah.
Samiyah wrinkles her brow in thought.
Samiyah says (in common), 'almond or cherry or apple?'.
You ponder the question.
You say (in elven), 'almond I think, is the sweetest of the three'.
You say (in elven), 'at least, to my tastebuds'.
Samiyah smiles happily.
Samiyah says (in common), 'that seems right. Almonds grow in the desert.'.
You ponder the question.
You nod.
Samiyah smiles happily.
You say (in elven), 'Almond it is then'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'would you cast fly upon me?'.
You say (in elven), 'of course'.
> c fly samiyah
Samiyah now can fly.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Thank you.'.
Samiyah says (in common), '.. and.. thank you.'.
Samiyah smiles at you.
You say (in elven), 'any time'.
You smile at her.
Samiyah says (in common), 'oh. No. Just the once, Sahib said.'.
You nod.
Samiyah's expression is tinged with regret.
You say (in elven), 'of course.'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'good night..'.
Samiyah leaves south.
You tell Samiyah (in elven), '*softly and warmly* Good Night, and thank you'.
Fare thee well!