Arrathion |
The suite consists of four sections, the lounge area, bedroom and bath, a loft, and a balcony. The door to the balcony was a sliding glass door, and was unlocked. Outside the balcony overlooked the back yard of the mansion, there was a large, in=ground pool, lit by lamp posts at each corner of its rectangular dais. Small flower gardens littered the grounds, vines draped down each lamp post. On the very edge of the property, you could see a lone guard walking the perimeter. Trotting alongside the guard was a large dog.
In the loft was a moderate sized desk, with a chair and lamp. Searching it reveals nothing of note, just paper, pens, pencils, erasers and the like. The bedroom was locked, but there was a second door into the master bathroom, almost as large as a typical bedroom. Ceramic tile floor, in shades of blue. The walls were smaller grey tiles and the counterspace was black and white marble.
Searching through the purse, you find nothing but the note. Should you take the time, the purse smells and feels as if it was brand new and never used.
As you may or may not be sniffing the purse, a knock on the door startles you back into the reality of your situation.
His gaze turns briefly to Cecil and the firelight danced behind his eyes as he seemed to ponder for a moment. "Very well, I will not dance around the point. The two of you, as well as your other tentative companion, Ms. Fluer, have been targeted by a rival of mine simply due to the fact that I have an interest in you. The events this evening were an attempt to capture or kill the three of you by the servants of a man named Skylar. It is my understanding that a young woman took a bullet meant for one of the two of you." As he spoke that last, his gaze returned to David.
Moments pass as the information begins to sink in, and before you could ask, Asher stood. "As for what the nature of my interest in the three of you might be, I urge you to join me in the ballroom tonight, for dinner and dance. You arrive at an interesting time, you see, tonight is the night of my birth and guests have already poured in. Should you honor me, Jon will take you each to your rooms, where you may stay as long as you like. Inside you will find proper attire prepared for you, as well as a chance to relax and reconcile yourselves with today's events. When you are ready, there is a phone with which you can call Jon and he will escort you wherever you may like. Though I must add, I suggest you stay here at least for the night. Many of your hunters were dealt with today, but many more wait in the shadows. You are safe here."
With a last look, Asher strode off with an entourage of servants.
Cecil Belinger |
David Akerman |
Sorry for the wait guys, was on a road trip didn't get back till late last night
Saia Fluer |
"Yea?" I answered waiting for some sort of recognition to whom it was. Thoughts overwhelmed me as I contemplated once again if coming was the best idea. I didn't like not knowing anything nor being followed. Being watched to the extent they had thought ahead to find outfits with matching purses that fit my style? Much less just watching enough to so casually say 'it's a pleasure to finally meet you', was eerie and out of a stalker movie. A few seconds went by before I continued, "come in?". Those words echoed in my mind for what felt like minutes,...
A moment or two went by wth even more thoughts consuming the space in my brain. Getting to Asher asap, that's what I needed to concentrate on. I began walking toward the door while asking "Is Asher ready to see me?". The thought that I was finally so close ached, frustration was overcome by sheer anxiousness to have answers. The feint traces of fear were absolute, but overcome by the adrenaline numbing them without of my senses now. I could hear myself Reading aloud the words from my favorite book, thought to have been fitting of the situation.
'She closed her eyes like the curtains being shut on the night sky, filled were her memories and clear, her path. The only road lay in victory, should her pursuers win she gains only strength, should they fail she gains still. Only ever does she become weak if a time passed she couldn't continue, thus the treaty of life on earth' ~unknown publisher
Arrathion |
Through the doorway steps a man, his expression almost feral. Brown hair was tied back from his face in a loose ponytail. His features are gaunt, the bones of his face visible through his skin. His clothes, though designer and probably once very nice were torn and ragged.
"Human?" A smile that might've been charming in the past, but only made his already gaunt appearance seem haunted grew on his face. "You're hurt." Roll a will save as well. For now I just need the saves, wait until my next post to do more.
Arrathion |
A nagging, sinking feeling touches upon your mind. You struggle ferociously, but you find yourself giving ground, and eventually succumb.
You're overcome with a sudden sense of terror, with the belief that some danger is close at your back, yet you can't look away from the man at the door. If only you could reach him, wrap yourself in his arms, feel the warmth of his body at your back, you would be safe. But by some cruel ploy, you find yourself exhausted, weak and barely able to move.
This Dominate could be interpreted as, "Do Not Move".
The ghost of a man stalked forward, his eyes boring into yours, full of wrath and insatiable hunger. His hand courts the tiny hairs about your skin, grazing lightly down your arm as he circles you. When next he spoke, his voice was warm and smooth, suave. You feel a whisper of a touch as his cheek grazes your ear, the warmth of his breath on the pulse at your neck. "Vierna will mourn your passing, as will I. Such beauty, all gone to waste. Die now, for me, Saia Fluer."
What happened next was a confusing jumble. First, the heat of the man's breath left your skin. The next, a jarring impact as he took you forcefully into his arms. Grapple: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18
An eternity passed in the next few seconds, the next thing you hear is a new voice, at which your captor's grip tightens around you and you feel it as he backs the two of you a step, then another. You're head is down, and you have a great view of the floor before you. Someone stood just out of your sight, you could see the tips of their shoes. It is odd though, as the light from the hall came pouring into the room, this person cast no shadow. You hear the snap of fingers, and you start to fall as the grip on your shoulders slacks and falls away. Another impact as someone catches you, lifts you to a standing position.
You could see now, the man that cast no shadow. His long, raven black hair fell in a loose curtain down his chest. Blue eyes shone from a pale face, reflecting the lights from the pool. His arm is outstretched with a closed fist.
The warm, silky smooth tone of your now previous captor's voice was rough in comparison to the one now ringing in your ears. "You may feel some shock, but you will recover. Can you stand?" He turns, briefly and rapidly speaking in a strange language to yet another person that had joined the party. You hear scuffles as the limp form of your captor is dragged from the room. "He will be dealt with severely, I do not tolerate those who would attack a guest of my house. You are welcome to join us, and see it done."
Saia Fluer |
A century of being left in this state, this one thought rethought over and over as if on repeat. time stood still for me from what it seemed. I came to at the presence and sound of another mans voice, this time much smoother, softer, kinder. I wanted to look up with what strength I had, but it was gone. I could feel my muscles spasm though unsure if it was caused by fear of what happened while I was out, anger, or that I now seemed to have regained my own will. Moments passed, my mind racing all the while. 'CHOOSE' I told myself.
The voice of my assaulter brought shock to me, snapping me back into reality with enough force to add whiplash to my injuries so to speak. Hate: feel intense or passionate dislike for (someone), only words but powerful as they were this is how I felt towards this man. No one would ever do this too me again, after my father had tried to my entire life breaking free of it was the one thing I aspired for. Holding it together I moved my neck and tried to roll to one side, a few small broken pieces of the door still probing my thigh, and my side aching (possibly a bruised rib). The pain was excruciating, and with it was the humiliation of having lost to such a cowardice man. The muscles around my body were tense, guessing it was from trying to fight being unable to move. Though when my sight met theirs tears rolled down my face, I was ashamed to be seen like this, ashamed to be so weak. Small gasps escaped me as my body heaved trying to stand, the legs known so well to be able to work like machines day in and day out were now acting as if they were made of jello. My left hand never left the wound on the side of my body. "I........" I meant to say something, only stiff pain surfaced though when I had attempted to successfully pull myself onto a chair.
Wincing I finally was able to get a good look at the man whom was speaking. "Are you, Asher?" My voice was low in an almost wisper as I spoke now. The last words he'd said rang over and over again, like a never fading echo in my mind... 'You are welcome to join us, and see it done.'. "I'd like to see your methods"
Arrathion |
Vierna's hands are at your elbows, holding you steady. Her gaze turns from Asher to you, a plethora of emotions swirling about in her eyes. Rage, concern, excitement, whatever was about to take place must hold some significance to those who dwell here. "Go, I will see you there."
Handing you off to Asher, you notice that Asher is not the only one who casts no shadow as Vierna departs.
A moment passes, and Asher, who both supports your weight and pride by taking one arm into his in a formal escort manner. Softly, almost under his breath, his silken voice nevertheless carries the same smooth tone and weight. "When this is over, would you honor me by accompanying me to the ball? You see, tonight is the eve of my birth and there are things I would like to discuss with you. And I'm sure that you have questions, I will answer them all to the best of my ability."
Cecil Belinger |
This feeling of formality was foreign to Cecil. The longer he stayed in this mansion, the more it showed on his face. Nothing has ever made him this nervous before. Someone better not scare him, accidentally or otherwise. They might end up with a elbow acrossed their face out of a sheer nervous reaction. These people saved him and were nothing but nice to him... and this he did not like or rather... was used too.
Arrathion |
Jon's dull green eyes rove over Cecil. "My Lord has taken into account each of your tastes, your outfits will be appropriate for the occasion and will not offend your own sensibilities."
With that, Jon leads you out into the hall, back down the stairs and down one floor. As you make your way, guests of the house and staff members alike are rushing about in preparation for the night's festivities, though a scene just ahead suggests trouble as Vierna plows her way through the masses toward you.
When she reaches you, she rapidly speaks in a strange language to Jon, whose stoic expression falters for just a moment before Vierna turns to the two of you. "There's been a change of plans, I am to direct you to the Obelus. Ms Fluer was attacked as she awaited me, punishment waits for the aggressor and we are to serve as witness."
David Akerman |
Cecil Belinger |
Saia Fluer |
My heart jolted as if I was being shocked at the invitation Asher had presented me. In this moment I wasn't entirely sure what to say.Judging by how he and Vierna now exchanged glances while talking of the punishments to come against my assailant, had only brought more questions to mind. Looking at Vierna almost mesmerized me in the way she could look so concerned, let alone rage and excitement mixed in there like a concoction of explosives used in fireworks... Was the show going to be impressive? or was it just going to go bang?...
Thinking this over momentarily I shifted slightly to look towards Asher again, the strength in my legs began returning but balance was not. Thankful that they were both there to support me, but also embarrassed by it. It felt almost as if Vierna was a long lost older sister with the emotions she'd spewed onto the scene both physically and verbally. Asher was another story,... not quite sure where he fit into the equation with the stern but distinguished look on his face gave. Regardless it made me feel important and safe for some reason.
As he sent Vierna off a part of me wanted to reach out and keep her there, yet before I could my eyes now fell to the floor below her. Then to Asher... They didn't have shadows?... a confused look stretched across my face and with an attempt to bring it up, when my eyes had met Asher's he was already talking again and Vierna was gone now.
[b]"Cotton Candy..." escaped my mind and was released without permission from my lips.... my imagination posed a visual of confusion making me want to elaborate before interjection. "It's there for a moment then gone the next with no trace of ever having been there,... how is it that I do not know you Asher? yet it's as if we've met lifetimes ago?.... How is it that between you and Vierna whom I've just barely met I can feel safe?... " The sound of confusion and slight harmless panic was found in my voice. More-so due to the possibility that I was being manipulated again. However if that was the case then this time was different than before...
His voice was calm, brushing over me like the warmth of a fire on a cold night. It gave me some unrecognizable comfort of which I'd only experienced from my mother.... Snapping back into reality I realized he'd asked me the same thing repeatedly.... "...a ball?... for your birthday?..." This guy had to be loaded, this kind of thing only ever happened in Cinderella and such plays/movies. Shocked by the question I stuttered a little, tripping over my words like a toddler trips over their feet. A moment, then two... I'd lost count, trying to come up with something to get out of it and back into my comfort zone. Yet I couldn't think of any reason not to go, at this point might as well seeings as I've been attacked only when he wasn't around thus far tonight. "I suppose,... I mean,..." thinking quickly, "I really have no reason to turn you down...." Shifting while being escorted by Asher my mind couldn't help but go blank time to time, whether from the pain in my thigh, the shakiness from my legs, or the fact that getting a good look at him he didn't look all that aged, was distinguished and handsome.
The company he gave me was enjoyable to say the least, though part of me couldn't help but want to get the answers right this moment, the rest of me was content with just being alive and feeling like I belonged in this house...
Making our way down the hallway it finally hit me, "is this dress suitable for something so formal as a ball?!?!..." sighing to myself I felt the humiliation coming on of being in a casual dress at a fancy rich person's ball... wait.... why did I care?... I was just attacked... g$*%%!mit being a girl sucks I thought to myself... looking back up to Asher only to smile and continue to the others...
Arrathion |
"Worry not about the dress, you will find that others here will have made similar choices of attire." His blue eyes shift to you. "You look lovely."
Asher led you to the very end of the hall, and as you go you see less and less of the mansion's tenants. You reach the end, and take a sharp right, where the doors of an elevator wait open for you. The lackeys check the system and the elevator itself, then motion for you to move in. One takes the back corner, the other waits at the controls as you and Asher take the center. The lackey punches in for the first of two basement floors and the elevator begins its descent. Music played, but it was not typical of elevator music. It was a solo piano, the mood and tone mystical and serene.
When you arrive on your destination floor, the lackeys move ahead, clearing the way and securing the elevator before you step out. If the lobby was impressive, the basement was extraordinary. The archaic architecture was more dominant on this lower level. Stone pillars served as the foundation of the upper levels. The masons who'd constructed it worked the walls about them. As before, torches, though now electrical, were held aloft by a gentle hand at each pillar.
You stood in a hall directly across from a series of large double doors, all open as people flooded in to be ballroom inside. The ballroom, from what you could see, was as if it had come directly from the stuff of fairy tales. From the door was a rounded staircase that descended to the dance floor where already there were a good number of people dancing to a more modern, upbeat song. The light was low, and a strobe cast it all into a more dance club atmosphere.
As you take this all in, you notice Asher watching you with a curiously. "I may be powerful, rich, but I like to party as if I wasn't. We all start at the same place, and it's refreshing to revisit that."
Asher's attention shifts down the hall, and as you look you can make out Vierna, David and Cecil making their way to you. The gathering crowd moved to clear the way for them as they took notice of Vierna. Their eyes eerily following their movements as they walked.
"There they are. We will go together from here to the Obelus. Then, you may ask of me any questions you have."
Jon bowed out for Vierna, who led the way down, past everything you had seen thus far and further into the basement. There were alot of stairs, but as you leave the staircase, you note the they led even further.
You come out into a long hall, full of people all making their way into a series of large double doors. The lighting was low, but flashed and the music from the next room was loud and clear, though it felt more like a dance club. this was the grand ballroom. As before, the architecture was astounding in its beauty and craftsmanship, but here everything seemed to be handmade. Large stone pillars served as a foundation for the upper levels, and on each again, electrical torches were held aloft by a gentle hand.
As you make your way down the hall, the crowd parts before you as they catch sight of Vierna and Jon. Their eyes eerily follow you as you go and you note that though the flashing light was bright enough to cast shadows on the walls, there were none but yours.
Further in, the crowd parts and you see Asher, with Ms. Fluer on arm waiting just ahead. Fluer's dress is shredded, and a grievous wound on her leg still bled, and was leaning on Asher's arm for support.
"My Lord." Vierna said as you regrouped. She dips into a light bow, as does Jon. "The others wait for us at the Obelus. The clothes prepared for our guests will be brought down for them to change in safety before the party."
"Very well." He shifts to regard David for a moment. "David, are you well? You seem a bit off color."
Cecil Belinger |
Cecil looks at David and then back to Fluer. Well, I'm only used to healing my own injuries... and I don't believe Fluer would be comfortable with my tending to her wound... I'm... not pleasant to look at... Nor am I gentle enough to not cause more pain while tending to it.
Cecil then looks to Asher. I would recommend having that wound cleaned and sutured within the next hour. Otherwise she may risk infection. I would hate to see that.
A look of concern is seen on his face, showing his genuine concern for the girls well being.
Arrathion |
Saia Fluer |
The conversation between Asher and myself had been enjoyable to say the least. That is, before the others joined us. Judging by the look of David I wasn't quite sure what bull he was spewing about being a hemophiliac, as i was covered in blood almost the entire night as was the rest of the room of the conference we were in. Thinking to myself for a brief moment then deciding to speak up I interrupted, "David? why are you lying? I was not only covered in blood but most of the room of the conference was covered in it as well,... If you were truly a Homophobia case then you'd have reacted earlier I show off the wound still glaring at him and holding onto Asher's arm firmly for balance. ",...more so than this,... now"
Turning my head so that I could see Asher and David from my peripherals, "Asher? Do you have any idea what David is lying for? I don't much like being kept in the dark especially after almost dying... My gaze turns to David and the 'newcomer but not as creepy but still creepy guy', "twice.......".This was why I had so many problems trusting anyone, they lied for their own vendetta, yet, they always got caught up in it as well. I wasn't sure what exactly it was but something was up with how he was acting now compared to earlier. So much so that it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure it out.
Looking at Cecil, I simply wait and watch him closely from here on out, "You are very correct about tending to my wound as I'd rather you didn't touch me" A look of appreciation followed by a short-lived sigh escaped her.
Arrathion |
Asher lays a hand upon Fluer's arm in a calming gesture. His attention was not on David, but on Shadow upon the older man's shoulder, whom began to growl under the scrutiny. Asher's gaze then shifted to Cecil, then to David. "Come, we have a Cleric, or rather a Priest at our disposal that will see to Ms. Fluer's wounds. I do not wish for her to endure this discomfort any more than the next, gentlemen."
With a beckoning wave, Asher turned to depart with Fluer still on arm. He leads you into a maintenance hall, that seemed oddly shaped and out of place, that led quickly into a different section of the building. A bright light seared at the end of the narrow hallway, and you are forced to walk in pairs or single file. You can see nothing but the light and the silhouettes of those ahead of you as you walk, and your footsteps echo repeatedly before you step out into a large, circular room with raised seating such as those in a stadium. In the center was an empty cylindrical space, through the windows you could see through the other side. Multiple floors overlooked the space. When you look down, there is nothing but heavy steel, the walls, the floors and even the glass was an illusion.
"Cameras." Vierna said, indicating the edges of the screen, built into the wall. "The inner wall is made almost entirely of titanium."
A further look, up to the top of the cylindrical chamber revealed a circular door.
"Send him in, and fetch Kales." Asher added as he glanced Fluer's wound with concern. "Infection is unlikely, but I fear the blood loss may prove overtaxing."
Jon and Vierna immediately departed to follow orders. Asher lead Fluer to a chair at one of the computers and sat her down. The velvet tone of his voice was filled with compassion. "Jon will bring some refreshment. As for him.." He tilted his head briefly toward the screens as Vierna dragged the wretch into the chamber and threw him against the far wall, Jon keeping close to her back but seemed to just be enjoying the show. "There is some degree of ceremony, then I will want a moment to garner information. Then I will call on you to make a choice."
Saia Fluer |
The conversation between Asher and myself had been enjoyable to say the least. That is, before the others joined us. Judging by the look of David I wasn't quite sure what bull he was spewing about being a hemophiliac, as i was covered in blood almost the entire night as was the rest of the room of the conference we were in. Thinking to myself for a brief moment then deciding to speak up I interrupted, "David? why are you lying? I was not only covered in blood but most of the room of the conference was covered in it as well,... If you were truly a Homophobia case then you'd have reacted earlier I show off the wound still glaring at him and holding onto Asher's arm firmly for balance. ",...more so than this,... now"
Turning my head so that I could see Asher and David from my peripherals, "Asher? Do you have any idea what David is lying for? I don't much like being kept in the dark especially after almost dying... My gaze turns to David and the 'newcomer but not as creepy but still creepy guy', "twice.......".This was why I had so many problems trusting anyone, they lied for their own vendetta, yet, they always got caught up in it as well. I wasn't sure what exactly it was but something was up with how he was acting now compared to earlier. So much so that it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure it out.
Looking at Cecil, I simply wait and watch him closely from here on out, "You are very correct about tending to my wound as I'd rather you didn't touch me" A look of appreciation followed by a short-lived sigh escaped her.
** spoiler omitted **
sorry but I just noticed that my auto correct went and changed hemophobia with homophobia most likely because I misspelled it to begin with, I'll try to catch it in the future to anyone reading this. Hope I didn't offend :3
David Akerman |
you didn't misspell it, for some reason it does not recogize hemophobia. Also idk if it counts towards it but in my spoiler I made a bluff that you would need to oppose. I didn't know if anyone else but Cecil would need to make it but the DM just told me otherwise. So the oppose roll is 27.
David Akerman |
"Forgive me, I only get this way when it comes out of young women. I saw my mother's death as a young child. The incident had scarred me."
Bluff: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
I took Shadow off or my shoulder and began to walk away from the crowd.
"Excuse me, I do not know why my friend is acting this way."
Saia Fluer |
The scene itself left me in somewhat of a disgusted state. Was it not he whom commented of lost chivalry yet lies to that same person plain as day? It was like a furnace of utter disgust and yet curiosity which only seemed to fuel the fire. Sick of not getting answers, not getting results, only more misleading statements. How dense was it to wonder why I couldn't trust anyone these days? My blood pressure was raising steadily as I spouted more towards David, "Abbati, medico, patrono que intima pande." I quoted. Only then did I begin to feel it, the overpowering sense of dizziness, becoming more light-headed and uneasy all the while. Sounds became distant echos of base playing in the background and the world began spinning.
I was able to make out the words 'cleric' and 'priest', though my vision, though off, was concentrated solely on Asher's face. Grogginess was taking over now, as my legs began to melt to the floor slightly before catching myself... "Can we go now....? Not wanting to sound rude I tried to give a smile with thte deepest sincerity I could muster. Our rhytm was out of sync the farther we walked, thud thud thud..... thud.....thud thud...., the lack of energy kept me from feeling as embarrassed and more mindful that regret of having to struggle in this moment was in my future. Yet in all this as my eyes met Asher's only then was my world still. My focus changing all the time in the like.
The sound echoed off the walls, and the chamber itself, then again in my mind. Breathing was beginning to contradict the movements I made to walk, never had I been so winded. Yet in all this he took the time to take pace suitable for me. Whether aware of it or not he did not once offer to carry me, or assist me more than minor support. At least some of my dignity could remain... Unsure how many there were I could swear it was the silhouette's of people encased in a bright light that peered through the gaps between them, eerily as though they were watching me specifically. The feeling of dread and caution went across my mind for a moment, broken only when I stumbled. I wondered if this was what "walking into the light" was like,... No... I couldn't be dead internally laughing off the matter entirely.
"Titanium huh?... a smirk stretched across my face, slight sarcasm with a touch of relief. I could see a chair in my future splashed into my mind.... What felt like days of walking across the Sahara, was only moments thankfully, never would I take a chair for granted again.
A few moments went by that the world began to move before again becoming still. However patchy my attention seemed, not having to move while doing so proved beneficial to participating in a conversation. take 20's on perception to check out everything you mentioned in the above statement. The gentleman known as Jon was an intriguing one, he obviously served and respected Asher, but something about him seemed off. "...I think you're shadows ran away..." Obviously my mind was playing tricks on me due to the loss of blood,... 'so typical' I said to myself mindfully, and I laughed.
Orders were being issued by Asher in uniform pre-practiced procedure or so it seemed. The way they moved together in order to accomplish their ultimate goal was tan-trick in my eyes, like watching a leave follow a current down the stream. My attention lurked down below into the Colosseum, my former assailant brutally being thrown in like a caged dog. This pleased me, How it must feel to be trapped and not know if you'll ever escape. Something I did not want to ever have to experience again. Karma had finally made its long journey twice fold around, and now it was in my court. In that moment I could wish him death, but that would mean to deny him the pain I'd endured moments, minute.... however long it had been prior to this one. Vaguely hearing everything being said but picking up on the overall destination of the conversation as my attention began wavering yet again.
"Then I will call on you to make a choice."
This had to sink in a little before realizing he had been talking to me... It was going to be my choice. I had say in this man's life I could assume. A power not fit for most, i became a goddess in that moment, however momentarily it was. My eyes locked in on his, "Asher? I beleive I see,... " stumbling vocally to catch my though back up with my words I continued, ",...I see where you're going with this,....... I want to get stronger so that tonight can never happen to me again..... but he..... My right hand pointed at the main below , "Perhaps, he has some answers I seek,..."
As if utilizing a practiced procedure, making my lungs fill and holding for a moment before releasing I regained my normal breathing for a time, every so often repeating the process. My hopes were in faith that some sort of cleric/doctor, whichever or whatever they were, would make it here soon. "Asher?..." I would pause a moment, making sure his attention was fully on me as I told him, ",...Thank you, ...
Cecil Belinger |
Cecil doesn't exactly care if David is lying or not. Not his problem. A man can have his secrets. If he doesnt want to tell us the truth he doesn't have too. I'm sure even the man you lean on has secrets far beyond your or my understanding. It doesn't make him less of a man.
Cecil then stays silent for the remainder of the trip. To much talking for him, never had he felt so uncomfortable as he did these past few hours. The way that it seemed these people had no shadows. Was this strangeness similar to his own. He rubs the palm of his rope gauntleted hand as he thought. His hand was connected to this in some way. He just knew it.
Saia Fluer |
"it's not the lying in general, it's the intent behind it,...why say anything at all if it doesn't matter. Basically he's insulting my intelligence as has most the people I've met this far tonight...."[b]. I could feel the slightest tug as if my body was floating. My thigh hurting was beginning to numb itself, plasma smeared across it where my hand had been. [b]"having secrets isn't the problem, we all have them, but lying when,....winces...its uncalled for to such.... Extremes. It makes it hard to not think of him as another wannabe assailant. He has no reason to tell us what his secrets are, but if all he will tell us is a persona built on lies and obvious ones at that then he should just not speak" Saia had a very encountered look with an abundantly annoyed expression. She couldn't help but get worked up and though what this macho creep was partially right, he deserved no credit from her. A correct answer or statement involved something complete in her eyes. Something only she knew at this point. She didn't particularly hate them, but they only continued pushing her buttons.
Time was of the essence now, but the dizziness was taxing as much as exchanging of words. Looking to Asher once more, "no offense, but to me,... Respect,... Friendships,... Even trust are earned. It's not something I give away lightly.......it's not something you get from me in a day.", though she looked at Asher she was directing it to all of them. "don't expect to get in my good graces if all you are to me is a ball of lies". It wasn't said with hostility or malice intended, simply I wanted to draw a line. Not sure of what was to come it was something my instincts screamed to proclaim.
Arrathion |
While a small part of him enjoyed the weakened state of the barriers erected about Fluer's mind, and the soul beneath, he was anxious to have her back at 100%. He dipped down on one knee, taking her hands into his. His eyes intent on hers, willing her to keep her focus.
He holds her gaze for a moment longer, before the footsteps of several individuals could be heard from the hall, even as Vierna and Jon returned from the chamber below, the assailant was now in shackles built into the floor. His hands and feet were bound, and his posture was almost as if he were in prayer.
In walked two men, and a woman. Neither were obviously a priest of any kind, yet the younger of the two men approached Fluer, waiting for Asher's nod to come closer. He also knelt before her, his hand on his heart and head dipped into a shallow bow before introducing himself. "I am Kales, with your permission Ms. Fluer, I will tend to your wounds."
Asher then spoke, his voice carrying that same mystifying tone as it always had, but this time it held something more. Compassion. "The one thing I will not be to you, is a liar." Saia roll will, she'll need a 20 to succeed. Also, even if she fails, she will be able to respond to Kales, even if only with a nod.
Saia Fluer |
"are you sure you have the experience? I don't mean to doubt but you look so,... young" Nausea was setting in as she spoke, making it hard for her to concentrate on anything more. That was,... before Asher pressed it further by become a beacon in my view. Somehow I felt entranced from the pain even if only momentarily.
Will: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
I couldn't look away, his eyes glowed with a kindness, his hands were warm surrounding mine. Before this moment I hadn't noticed I was slightly shivering. Everyone here was so,... different. Khales knelt, then Asher, as if before a princess, my face reddened. Never had this happened, and it was embarrassing as well as gratifying. "..........." Im not sure where the words were anymore, but the pain was numb, as was my mind with trying to comprehend what exactly was happening and why. The world began slipping however, melting away into a more cloudy version as colors mixed. The pain was there, but it wasn't as well. A blurry Khales pulled on something then threw whatever it was aside with a soft thud. Asher, not moving an inch all the while, kept my hands from reaching or my wounds. What was happening to me?
I finally was able to break a hand free of Asher's and raised it to my face instinctively.
Arrathion |
You feel it as Kales cleaned the wound, the sting of the disinfectant was distant but real all the same. Kales places a hand over the thigh and begins a soft chant in a foreign language, his eyes closed and head dipped in prayer. The waves of a great warmth wash over you, your mind translating it as an alternating heat and coolness at the site of the wound. The others watching are witness as the skin of Fluer's thigh knits back together.
Waves of Healing: 4d6 ⇒ (1, 6, 5, 2) = 14
With the wound healed and cleaned, your mind clears yet Asher still demands all of Fluer's attention. Vierna shifts on her feet. "Though I've seen it many times, it still fascinates me what he's capable of."
Jon nods in agreement, and still more people arrive in the room, taking seats though clearly they all are trying to get a closer look at the scene. A few jealous faces on the women can be seen as they notice the closeness with which Asher shares with Fluer.
Concern etches itself into Asher's expression. "I must leave soon, and see to my promises. When you have fully recovered, Vierna will take you down to meet me. In the meantime, wear these." With his free hand, the other still holding Fluer's, he grabs a pair of headphones from the desk and holds them out for Fluer to take. "You will hear everything, perhaps the information I seek may answer your own questions as well."
Although hesitant, he slowly stands, removing his hand from Fluer's and fitting the headphones on her, brushing aside her hair with gentle strokes as he slid them on. As he turned to leave, the unnatural attraction seems to slowly dissipate as time goes on, and the sound of a door opening plays through the speakers.
Those looking at the screen watch as Asher appears in the chamber, and the room grows ever more quiet as a silent anxiety envelops the room.
Saia Fluer |
The abilities Khales used were beyond what I'd expected from such a young person. Impressed as I was however, I found it hard to look away from Asher,... in fact, it was rather impossible. More and more bodies were making their ways into the room, and seating themselves as if a great council watching the assailant for his plea. Whispers gave me reason to believe that some were more interested in me rather than than the man whom tried to kill me earlier. It was as if coming to from a daydream, when realizing Asher was as close as he was. The moments more intense and challenging me to not want to look away or care. The pain had subsided by the next time I'd though about it, Khales had my gratitude. "Thank you,... I can barely tell anything was even there now.."
Vierna being there made these moments all the better, around her it felt safer. Whether it was because there was finally another female, or perhaps that she was as strong as she was. Either was I aspired to be like her when it came to her strength. I felt I could read people pretty well despite these occurrences, that said however, her actions taken tonight only spoke louder than words that I wanted to give her my trust.... not just yet though...
As he'd reached for the headphones I half attempted to take them from him in thinking he'd only meant to hand them to me. Still holding my hand with his other hand and keeping my eyes connected to his my heart thumped in my chest nervously. Like out of a movie he brushed my hair aside as if it were from a romantic movie. I was capable of putting on headphones, but something inside me stopped me. Part of me wanted this moment, and I'd never known that about myself,... "something so simple???". I felt slightly embarrassed, yet with the "audience" we had now part of me felt it was genuine. Sitting there in awe I listened to every words he said, remembering only as he spoke what I was here for in the first place.
"You yourself are going down there? Be careful[/", I chimed as if it really mattered. Even I knew and recognized he was a powerful being, and now that I was able to concentrate at an almost full potential again I stared after him, only blinking after the door had shut behind him. shaking my head a little, the groggines leaving now if only from what Khales had done for me. The headphones left as proof that everything had just transpired. Confusion, happiness, longing,... all things I hadn't really had the opportunity to experience while under the supervision or watchful eye of my father were now hitting me from all sides.
The feeling of jealousy amoung some of the crowd was apparent whenever I'd looked around now, it almost felt like happiness would jump in my heart as it beat when I'd catch them glaring. Not sure that even I approved of my own feelings suppressing them was all I could handle at the moment.
CREEEK THUH THUNK.... We all began watching below as Asher made his way into the room of the assailant. What he was about to ask was making me anxious, my goals, ideas and own questions were now re-flooding my brain. So badly did I want to be down there questioning him myself, but what could I really get out of him when he so easily had his way with me?.... Never again would that happen"... if I told myself enough times,... maybe one day like a wish it could come true...
He now made his way across the room below,... Anxiety rippling like a wave engrossing the entire audience leaving no one spared from its hold. Waiting for Asher to begin, was all that remained...
Arrathion |
Vierna walked up to Fluer's side, waving for the others to follow suit. Her fingers flashed over the controls and Asher's voice played out over hidden speakers. "Good evening, everyone. As you have been told, Tyler has attacked one of my guests of honor this evening. As you may no doubt have seen in the last few months, house matters have steadily grown chaotic as the conflict with Skylar escalates. You all know of our history, and that I have taken in several of his ilk, given them a home when they were left abandoned, with no family."
At these words, the crowd could hear sobs as Asher spoke. The prisoner at his feet shaking in unison. "Tyler here is one example of my mercy." Asher snaps his fingers, and Vierna inputs a series of commands on the computer. The shackles holding this Tyler release and disappear as they fold in back through the floor. Tyler frantically retreats from Asher, his back ramming into the far wall where he cowers in terror.
Asher casually skirts the weaping heap of a man's range as he swipes out at him, raising his hand to the wall where a panel slides to the side, revealing a sword of masterwork quality with a slightly curved blade. Asher retrieves it and slides it across the floor to Tyler. "Pick it up." Tyler hesitates, and Vierna huffs with amusement.
Fluer would notice that as Vierna spoke, her voice sounded through the headphones. At a closer look, she was wearing some sort of headset of her own. "He will reassert his dominance over the wretch, both over mind and body before he slowly and smoothly rends the information from his mind with kind words. It is a show, a game." Vierna's gaze shifts to the crowd behind her then back to he screen. "All to keep these beasts in line." Her tone and expression suggest she wasn't fully supportive of this. The reason is unclear.
Below, Tyler was now armed, and the beginnings of courage were working themselves into his visage. Asher stood waiting, back in the center of the room, completely at ease. "You are of my blood, Tyler. Skylar may have made you but I made him. This betrayal, after the several chances I have given you cuts much too deep."
The lights in and out of the chamber surge and flicker. The screens and headphones play static before all but the screens and chamber lights go out. And as you watch, something catches your eye among the beams of the spotlights, as you look you could swear something shifted as dust swirled and eddied but you could see nothing.
Looking back at Tyler, the courage that he had shown was completely gone. Asher stalked closer now, his prisoner frozen in fear. "Tell me why after all I've done for you that you would attack my guest. Tell me how Skylar knew to target these three and his motivations in doing so, and I will not kill you where you stand."
Tyler hesitated, obviously torn. Fear gave way to blind rage and he charged Asher with frightening speed, slashing viciously in an attempt to spill Asher's innards from his belly.
Asher danced about the blade, graceful steps taking him further back until they approached the far wall. None of Tyler's blows connected, and even cornered, Asher stood unscathed against the onslaught. Impatience, or simply boredom marked a cruel smile on Asher's face. Deadly grace and precision brought Asher behind Tyler's defenses, an arm flashing out, grasping Tyler's sword arm and twisting, the sounds of breaking bones could be heard over the speakers and through the headphones and Tyler's shrill screams pleased the ears of those that watched behind you, the sadistic smiles on their faces a clear indicator. The blade fell but never reached the floor as Asher snatched from mid-air and held it at Tyler's throat.
"Tell me again why I've been so patient with you. You're a sensible man, Tyler. Intelligent, strong, and talented. You see where this leads should you continue to push me away. If I let you go, Skylar will kill you in a matter of days. Your place is here."
Vierna placed her hand on Fluer's shoulder, unaware of her doing so as you all watched and listened as Tyler spoke. Behind you, you hear footsteps as someone leaves the room. Should you look, you would notice that Jon was absent as well, yet you never heard him leave. At that moment, Asher's head tilts as if he heard them too. Tyler's breath heaved after each word, hints of those screams wheezed from him with every sentence. "He learned of their existence, and your interest in them from your human, the priest. Kales. He's on Skylar's payroll. I don't know what he has to gain from their deaths, other than to cause you pain."
Asher took all of it in, a scuffle down the hall and moments later, Jon returns with Kales in tow. Jon quickly drags Kales down to the chamber, Kales spewing nonsensical half-words all the way as Jon's grip steadily tightens about the boy's throat. On the screen, Jon and Kales join Asher and Tyler, Jon looking almost bored with it all as the doors close behind him.
Asher closes in, taking the boy's face in his hands, turning it to the side as if inspecting a purchase at the store for the first time. "Leave us."
There was no hesitation as Jon followed orders, yet even after leaving the chamber Jon does not rejoin you.
Asher's eyes glow crimson, Kales' face purples to a ridiculous point as if being suffocated. Lifting Kales as if he were nothing more than a rag doll until Kales' limp form stood head and shoulders over Asher, he began to levitate as Asher released him. The skin on the boy's face growing darker and darker before his head explodes, raining dark blood on the floor below. Asher snaps his fingers, and Vierna puts in another command.
Asher stood still in a sea of blood, somehow untouched by it all.
Cecil Belinger |
The sudden pain brought a short break from the suspense of all that transpired. He looked at his hand and could see the light piercing through the ropes that held it. He covered it with his other hand. Asher... He said quietly before looking back at the screen only to see a spray of blood.
As sudden as a bite from a hidden snake. Cecil's memories flowed back though him. Back to the time he was conered by that gang... The blood... Their bodies... The sight that lay before him was all to similar to then. Cecil takes a half breath as if he took a punch to the gut while breathing. He took a step back and bit his lip. Your the key to this... Cecil's eyes on Asher, directing his words as if he could hear him through the screen.
Saia Fluer |
I watched inventively as Asher played with his food so to speak. Giving the mongrel a weapon to better defend himself. It was no surprise that he was skilled enough to dodge the man, more to show a display of power to everyone. The conflict for me was, how? He still was able to move fluidly but at such speeds if you were to blink you'd have missed what was happening. Even so, keeping up with him was inhuman. It almost... scared me.
His guest... With every mention of it my mind read into it deeper. I was a guest? so therefore I was expected as were the others. Looking to my side Vierna held ground in a way that made her look powerful. Not sure what exactly was the intent at first of why I had a headset and the speakers were on for the others to hear. My mind was still at a loss of everything that had happened tonight, had I missed something? Instincts inside to my very core ached in response to something being there. Vierna and Asher said certain statements that only led to my mind wandering in every which direction trying to eagerly make sense of it all. "Keep these beasts in line, and "You are of my blood, Tyler. Skylar may have made you but I made him". Instincts lurched at my insides aching as if the answers were obvious, that this riddle was arguably a game of cat and mouse. Frustration and eagerness building up overpowered simply by the desire to see what was in store.
Looking back at the sound of footsteps retreating from the room, I'd was able to catch Jon was leaving. It was then that I noticed Vierna hand on my shoulder. The sound of the fight below tore me away from this. Asher's voice ringing in my ears as well as off the walls of the chamber. Little did I know that soon answer to why Jon had left and Khales was gone would be explained. The shock and excitement of how quick this group worked left me stunned. Still unable to find the words I wanted to express I simply placed a hand on Vierna's as if showing support as well as gaining it. The thought of not knowing whom was trust-able and who wasn't. The thought that one day finding someone that wouldn't hurt me in any way seemed like a mirage at the end of a tunnel that never ended.
Khales was such a gifted individual, but he was,... the enemy? It was hard to believe but by no means was it the first loop i was throw through tonight. perhaps it was better to pull off all the band-aids early in hopes to weed out those whom were not to be trusted. Khales couldn't have meant harm though... could he? The thought played tug-of-war in my mind while down below seconds later he appeared beign drug in via Jon. So he 'was' running... or trying to... "what ind of innocent man runs?... they don't" I told myself annotating the happenings in my head, storing the data like clockwork.
Linguistics: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5 trying to understand what he'd saying
Ill take a 10 = 18
To anyone watching me I seem to be paying particularly good attention hanging off the very words Khales spoke as if I recognized them
Asher seemed different, from the way he postured himself, to the aura he gave off. A false sense of kindness lingered replaced and overcome by overpowering tension, anxiety, and anger filled the chamber and the room we were in. Fear added itself as Asher grabbed Khale and began squeezing. I watched intentively as the color drained from his face, he was being choked extensively. Not sure how I felt about this, Tyler had tried and gotten father in killing me and we weren't even questioning Khales. Taking his life seemed to be of little meaning to him. Only minutes before he was the one healing my wounds, so could he not be redeemed? How serious was this predicament I was in? Part of me wanted to look away, but afraid I was going to miss something important I decided to watch on slightly cringing as I heard blood curdling sounds one shouldn't have to hear.
I was sure Vierna could sense or feel my heartbeat through my hand. It was racing as Khlaes suffocation reached its climax. The evil that poured from Asher now left me a little frightened. His entity made entirely of multitudes of power exerting itself upon Tyler and Khales in ways unthinkable. All the while his face grew darker and darker until he hang there in mid-air, limp, un-moving. A part of me felt overcome with fear, while the other part of me curious why I was held in such high regards to be worth killing for... A solid minute seemed to drag on for days, only the crowd of those behind me occasionally gasping or sobbing kept time moving. In the same instance of Khales' body becoming limp he head began deforming more and more until it inevitably exploded. Blood and gore of his brains, facial features, and skeleton went in every direction.
Blood scattered everywhere, gore was everywhere and Asher just stood there, not one drop was able to land upon his being... "...Just what are you?" I whispered to myself, not realizing at first that the words had escaped my lips. the first to be spoken since just before I'd sat down. My hand was shaking slightly while holding tightly onto Vierna's. My eyes met with hers, only a moment before a tear escaped them, a look of discomfort and slight confusion with an abundance of fear all meshed into one face. I wanted to hear it was going to be okay, but my body reacted to the immense power shown by Asher.
Caught off guard hearing his voice in this moment, "It turns out I have much more to tell you than I anticipated. Have Vierna escort you down." It took me a few seconds to realize I was the only one besides Vierna whom could hear anything now. Not sure that I was ready or what was about to happen I pressed on only by telling myself it would turn out well, and that getting my answers would be worth it in the end. Had I not already gone this far already it wouldn't be as hard to walk away. Now, for me however, it felt as if I was entirely engrossed,... surrounded by Asher and his world to the core. In the surroundings currently holding me as a 'guest' my world felt both darker as the little light that did exist, began to get swallowed up in its forever darkness. Coming to realize how right it was of a theory/gut feeling,... What scared me now, was how welcoming to it I felt plunging headfirst into the void..."I'm ready Verina".
I stood up looking at the others in the room, and quietly followed Veirna past the others to an unknown outcome...
Arrathion |
"You two may stay here." Vierna leads Fluer by the hand, almost for her comfort as much as Fluer's.
Vierna then leads Fluer down a spiraling staircase, and to a heavy steel door. She stops before the door, her hand cool to the touch. Her eyes are intent, searching as they meet Fluer's. Her lips part, and her eyes flutter as if fighting off tears. As you take this in, you note that her canines were especially long, the points catching on Vierna's lips, suggesting a razor sharp point. "The fear you feel is a primal thing, instinctual. The intensity of this moment, hold it close in the days to come and know that everything you witness tonight, all that he is is committed to your safety. The moment you took your first step into this house, you became the single most important thing in his life."
She places a comforting hand on each side of your face, lightly brushing your hair back, tucking it behind your ears. She closes the distance between you, compassion and sincerity, empathy in her expression as her lips hesitate a hairs breadth from yours. Her breath is sweet and intoxicating, the invitation lingers as she waits, allowing Fluer to make the next move.
Upstairs, a new arrival taps Cecil on the shoulder.