He cocks his head to the side, then returns to work.
"It is not. As you will. Your interpretation of my reasons is more important than anything I would say: I often find this far more revealing than giving an answer. People simply hear what they want, no matter what. This often informs much better how to say things."
His emotion is unreadable, no expression, no inflection.
He continues working while they speak.
He looks at her for a moment, emotion unreadable.
"I claim to be nothing but who I am. I am Eli. I am assigned by the one in our dreams to see her word kept, so long as I believe it right. Your question is otherwise unanswerable."
He stares for a moment, expression unseen behind the mask.
"Am I the one you think? I cannot say. I suspect few could, for certain. But what I know is that rarely do prophecies happen as we expect. Always that which is spirit tells us one thing, that which is flesh tells us another thing, but that which is true tells us something else - the first words are true, but rarely as the flesh suspects."
Another pause. No hint of what he's actually thinking is able to be seen.
"Go. Find sleep. Tomorrow we will know more of what lies in store. We will learn who I am to you, in time, together."
He continues working while they speak.
Having made all the points he cares to, Cernan spends most of the rest of the evening observing more than lecturing. It seems, at least, that he's figured out who in the group to trust in a fight, and who to trust with...maybe other things.
Before sleeping, he hangs a small—but loud—bell on the inside of the door, and scatters a few others on the floor, since he doesn't know much about the security of this inn.
"It is not. As you will. Your interpretation of my reasons is more important than anything I would say: I often find this far more revealing than giving an answer. People simply hear what they want, no matter what. This often informs much better how to say things."
Natanja mimicked the cocked head at Eli's reply.
"I respect your answer well enough, Eli. But know this, I would not have asked if I expected only to hear what I wanted. I was genuinely curious."
Strange. Interesting. Silent thoughts moved in her head.
its alright, maybe you just have not fully realized Gods task for you. and for the record, Its not who you are to me, but rather who you are to yourself, and before God.
She turns to head toward a room selected for her, as she goes she takes pause to with Eli a pleasant rest. Good night Eli, May God reveal more to you when the time is right. And may god bless you.
She heads upstairs to her room.
at no time did Azmaria ever notice Vincent following her.
Kwyn nods at Cernan’s sentiments.
’It can be difficult to gather so many from so far apart without conflicting views causing at least a little friction.’
She thinks to herself as she sips some wine to wash down the meat. Her attention is draw to the small number of people slipping away from the gathering until Brit’s rather ‘colorful’ description of what happens to those that fall from their paths, her nose wrinkling at the smell of her cigarette. Eli’s insistence for Aeryth to name himself catches her attention even as she uses another minor magic to nudge the tobacco smoke away from her face.
Kiwyn is glad to see the matter resolved peacefully and relaxes. She had not realized she had tensed up.
”We should each thank the innkeepers personally.” She agrees with a smile. As the rest of the group begin to exit the room the young looking girl begins helping Eli and Natanja gather dishes and clean the table as she would have done after any meal at the temple.
She does her best not to interrupt the two as they speak. Only doing so if they are still talking once the cleaning was done.
”Sleep in peace.” She says with a bow to the two before taking her leave. Kiwyn seeks out the innkeeper couple to thank them herself and inquire about the location of the bath house.
Arabeth makes small talk, as much as is done by those who linger at the table. When people begin to drift away she nods and smiles to Elysium "Eli" Blackdun before seeking out the proprietors and arraigning a bath and the services for washing clothes as well as the arrangements for breakfasts, the timing their of and such.
Moving to the 'common' room as she awaits her bath to be drawn, Arabeth listens in on any chat the locals might loudly and freely. If there are any still about as the evening moves on.
While she enjoys the feeling of getting clean Arabeth does not linger and 'soak' as perhaps is people's want. In only a short time she exits the bathing chamber, leaving her travel clothes to be gathered and cleaned and scoots towards her sleeping chambers. Her great feathered cloak seeming never leaving her possession and, by evidence of her bare ankles, virtually all she takes from the bathing chambers to her rooms.
Marius is one of the last to remain at the table, offering what was left to Rex and scarfing down as much as he could stomach. He pats Rex on the head as the canine sits patiently for more. "Better than roasted squirrel, eh?" For a wolf, Rex was not particularly discerning about what he ate. As long as it smelled even somewhat palatable, the wolf managed to force at least part of it down his gullet. He couldn't help but agree - the long road had taken a lot out of both of them. Marius hadn't enjoyed the comfort of a real bed in weeks, if not more. And real cooking? A true blessing from God, whatever he was up to.
Finally, Marius stands and cleans up his spot - clearing tables was not his forte, but he wasn't one to be rude either - and heads for the inn's rooms. He settles down in his room and relaxes on the soft comfort of the bed, Rex at his feet. For the first time in a long, long time, he relaxes.
Letting his guard down was perhaps foolish, he knew. But at least Rex was at his side in case something did go wrong. "Sleep tight, bud. I guess God only knows what's ahead of us tomorrow."
Chap drinks her wine until she is too tired to keep her eyes open. She finds her way to a bench, chair, or booth along the wall to sleep until someone rouses her and encourages her to her chambers.
After the others have gone to bed, Vincent will calmly walk up to Eli, out in the open.
These room you say are for us, then I wish to give my room to someone else. Give my room to a family on the streets. Allow them to have a night off the street. I will sleep on the couch or better yet the floor. It would feel more comfortable having it be that way Eli
He continues working for a moment, then, noticing Vincent is still there, he continues.
"If receiving something without work bothers, than work without compensation. If you are simply uncomfortable in a bed, than sleep on the floor of your room. Why a family would be on the streets when there is so much wood and timber locally available to make their own houses, I cannot fathom, but that is their own choice. You dishonor their choice by implying you are their superior. If you believe this to be true, or this is true for some reason, it is not a thing I wish to speak of. It is alien to me. Men must be free to choose their own way, or they will rely on another to choose for them."
His voice and face remain flat and expressionless.
Further, in the Embishiu culture, there is no such thing as a hopelessly poverty-stricken family. Neighbors will assist you in building a home, if you ask. The tribe will assign tasks to any who ask, eventually. You are always free to hunt or gather or grow your own food. Sharing is common, and asking for a day or two is not impolite. More than that is considered rude or pathetic. Those who cannot "afford" to eat are in that state because they didn't work enough. There is none of the civilized "can't find a job" nonsense, and any who would claim such are either not looking, or are too foolish to make decisions on their own, and thus need someone to tell them what to do. These are considered "incompetents" and are pitied by the other tribes folk.
Chap drinks her wine until she is too tired to keep her eyes open. She finds her way to a bench, chair, or booth along the wall to sleep until someone rouses her and encourages her to her chambers.
As she pads barefoot from her bathing Arabeth notes the woman trying to get comfortable b draping themselves over furniture. Arabeth stops, bends closer and quietly, gently get Brit's attention. Whispering that Arabeth's rooms are more than well appointed enough for two.
Offering a pale hand from within the folds of her large, feathered cloak Arabeth would lead Brit to a better place for her to have her rest.
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CS Game Post 2
You sleep at the Green Tree Inn that night, after meeting all those strange and interesting people who were also called and chosen.
The delicately beautiful woman with the melodious voice visits you in your dream again.
"I hope everything went well today. I hope you like your family members.
Yes, you are all family. You share a common ancestor... my Grandfather... an Angel known as Raphael here in the mortal World. It seems he was quite active here. He got around."
A slight smile crosses her lips, and you feel a warm glow in your heart.
"As far as I can tell, none of you are closely related enough to be called cousins, even distant ones, but you are family, nonetheless.
It is because of this blood connection that I am able to contact you in this way."
A frown creases her brown, and the sunshine in the World dims.
"I'm afraid I'm not currently ... at liberty to act as freely as I would like... but I hope that, for now, you will be my eyes and hands in the World, insofar as what I ask furthers the common good. Will you help me?"
A strong force within you wants to turn her pleading gaze into one of approval and gratitude. Presuming you agree, she continues...
"The plot is complex. Even I do not fully understand it. So, before I send you to the heart of the matter, you need to grow in strength and experience as a team, and I need to gather information through you.
Based on something I overheard recently, I am concerned for the safety of a small village to the north of Vigilant, also on the Western border of Theramark, but more isolated, and off the main trade routes. This village is named Endurant.
Please, travel north to Endurant together, and see if anything unusual is going on there. It may be nothing, it may be vigilantes, it may be fiendish forces, and it may even be too late, but please see if there is anything you can do to help, and, if there is something unusual going on there, please try to find out who's behind it and who or what they're looking for.
I'll have Eli ask the Green Tree Innkeepers Alice and Bob for the funds and items I left behind with them. Use these wisely to assist in your missions.
Be careful. Powerful forces are at work behind the scenes.
I will visit you again in dreams when I can.
Thank you, and may God bless you with safety and success!"
The dream fades, and you wake with the dawn.
Eli, if you do ask Alice or Bob Treekeep for the funds and items Angelina left behind, they will give you a fairly small wooden box and the key to unlock it. They will repeat their hope that Angelina is alright, and will ask you to help her if she needs it.
If you open the box, you find 8 small vials of liquid, each with a tiny label:
Two are labeled Remove Disease.
Two are labeled Remove Curse.
Two are labeled Neutralize Poison.
Two are labeled Cure Serious Wounds.
You also find 150 platinum pieces, 100 gold pieces, 25 silver pieces, and 15 copper pieces.
There is also a slip of paper in the box, resting across the top of the other items, as if labeling them all. On this paper there is delicate handwriting in Common:
"For use in case of emergencies. God bless! -Angelina"
Eli, you will need to decide whether to hold onto the box and key yourself, give it to someone else to carry, and/or distribute the contents among the group. If the potions or coins get distributed, I will need to know who carries what, and I would also ask those persons to record it in their alias profile in a separate section called "Items/Funds from Angelina."
7 Male Characters:
Marius the CG Divine Hunter - Azata Aasimar - with Rex the Wolf
Andrei the NG Mercenary Slayer - Angel Aasimar
Poterol the CG Shaman - Elf Azata Aasimar - with Merry the Flying Spirit Squirrel
Vincent the CG Young Rogue - Standard Aasimar
Eli the CG Destined Bloodrager - Azata Aasimar - with Calm the Mask of Stony Demeanor
Aeryth the NG Fighter - Angel Aasimar
Cernan the Patient the NG Arcanist White Mage - Peri Aasimar
8 Female Characters:
Brit a.k.a. Chap the LG Inquisitor - Archon Aasimar
Natanja the NG Flame Shaman - Peri Aasimar - with Oko the Spirit Flame Hawk
Sister Azmaria the LG Paladin Holy Gun - Azata Aasimar
Lesith the LG Non-Violent Celestial Sorcerer - Angel Aasimar
Arabeth the NG Life Oracle - Garuda Aasimar
Shyness the CG Celestial Bloodrager - Changeling, human appearance
Kywin the White the NG Arcanist White Mage - White-fur-blessed Kitsune with alternate Human form
Kayahidye the LG Lotus Monk - Catfolk Standard Aasimar
Eli would be vocally noncommittal to her plea in the dream, other than informing her that he will definitely look into the matter and decide what is right and do that. Inwardly, however, he is thoroughly dedicated to this cause, and to her.
When he wakes, Eli would get washed and dressed quickly, head downstairs, and talk with the Treekeeps.
He would acquire the box, thank them, and inform them that Angelina is contacting them regularly, and, though not free to act herself, seems well enough, otherwise.
He would then work and direct all of those called by Angelina to breakfast in the backroom, where he has things to distribute.
Once the last person is there, he, too, would enter, and give some things away. Each person gets 10 platinum, 6 gold, 1 silver, and 1 copper. He explains that this comes from Angelina, having been stored for an emergency. It's not petty cash to buy nice things, it's funds for the express purpose of acquiring that which is needed to survive. He partially feels that it should go without saying, but he says it anyway: "Do not be wasteful with these funds. If you intend to use them for any purpose - any purpose - other than this mission, return them now, and I shall keep them for this mission, and for us all. This is not 'your' money. This is 'Angelina's' money. To do otherwise is theft from someone who seeks our good. This is the height of dishonor." His voice is entirely emotionless.
Eli keeps 10g and 10s remaining in the box, informing everyone that he's doing so.
He would show everyone the note, and inform people of the contents of the box: two potions of remove disease, two remove curse, two neutralize poison, and two cure serious wounds.
The note is a slip of paper in the box, resting across the top of the other items, as if labeling them all. On this paper there is delicate handwriting in Common:
"For use in case of emergencies. God bless! -Angelina"
Otherwise, Eli would hold onto it (and them), as he's quite fast, and hopefully will be able to reach anyone rapidly should they need it.
He would inform them that he plans on going immediately after breakfast, and invites any who would to go with him.
After a comparatively short breakfast, he would clean the table and dishes, thank the Treekeeps again and, whether or not anyone else would, he'd head off down the road, unless anyone specifically wants to go, but needs to purchase something - he would wait for them.
Everyone else would have had more time to eat, as he was waiting for the last to arrive before doing so himself.
He would, however, travel with all that wish to go, not just by himself, and encourage others to do the same, if they plan on going. He encourages them to stick together in general.
EDITS: for clarity, and to add dice rolls.
"So Endurant huh?" Aeryth says as he walks down the stairs to get breakfast. "How far away is that?" he asks reaching the bottom of the stairs. He gets his breakfast and starts eating.
"I, and Oko, will help you in this cause."
Natanja usually woke at dawn in order to spend some time communing with Oko and preparing her spells for the day. This time the dream had woken her. So, she was related, albeit distantly, to all those present around the table last eve. A common ancestor ... now that was interesting. Raphael.
"So it is to Endurant we go."
Natanja completed her morning ablutions as Oko watched on with steady eyes. Natanja poured water into the bowl on the chest by the bed and Oko sipped and cleaned/groomed herself as well.
Once done, with hawk seated on her shoulder, Natanja made her way outside the inn and found a spot where she could see/feel the fine tendrils/rays of the waking sun.
She crossed her legs and sat for an hour, Oko perched on her shoulder, the divine energies flowing between them. Natanja enjoyed the dawn and this personal time between her, Oko and Eth, the Flame Spirit. Natanja felt the fiery energy move through her and it revived her wholly. Her body thrummed with the power. Once her spells were prepared and she gave thanks to Eth, she returned to the dining hall, noting a few of her new companions milling about and eating.
"Good morn." She smiled and made her way to the scullery and asked the cook if she could have some raw, small pieces of meat for Oko. She took out some coin to pay for it. , Natanja waited until Oko had finished breaking her fast (which took no time at all) before returning to the hall to break her own fast.
She set Oko on the chair by her and turned to those present. When Eli approached them and began distributing coin around the group, Natanja gratefully accepted the funds given to her by Eli on behalf of Angelina.
"I am ready to leave after we eat and organise ourselves. I echo Aeryth's question, how far is this village of Endurant? And, we should discuss what supplies and resources we have between us, so we can then decide what relevant purchases need to be made with the new coin we've been gifted."
Where you come from, your people will help at a simple request. Things are not as simple as that here in the city, even though I wish it were at times. I will have to simply disagree and go about my way
Vincent leaves, not upset or frustrated, but knows that it is a cultural gap. He sleeps on the floor, he is more comfortable there.
You can find out that Endurant is a few days walk north up the road.
"That means we are family too. I will do everything in my power to help you."
Lesith wakes up early and goes down to help the innkeepers prepare breakfast.
"Please let me help. I love to cook."
She helps serve the others, and clean afterwards.
While washing the dishes with Eli she questions him.
"You seem to have become our leader, Eli. I am glad someone calm as you do it. Please count and trust me. I won't abandon this quest, and our family. Tell me if I can help in something and I'll do my best. About the money, I will keep it safe for when we all need it. It is not mine. It is Angelina's"
The she looks for Aeryth, and grabs his arm.
"Aeryth, can you escort me to town? I would like for us to investigate about this Endurant place."
She will ask for him to investigate, helping him as well as she is able.
"Purchases?" Cernan interjects. He hasn't spoken much this morning, just eating in quiet. "How urgent is the timing on this? I could knock together a few proper weapons, if we've got the time, and save you all some cash. But for all we know this might just be an investigation."
Natanja looked up from her bowl at Cernan and smiled. "Aye, it could well be a straightforward investigation. I just prefer to be prepared for any event. And Angelina did say that Endurant was a village. It may not have a ready supply of goods if we decide we need them later. Just attempting to initiate discussion since the coin we have been generously gifted must be used for the missions we undertake."
Kayahidye's amber eyes glow like warm embers as she smiles pensively.
"It is funny how fate goes. I searched and searched for many years for my origins where I was found in the Cloud Wreath Mountains, and never found anything. And then by following a voice and beckoning hand in a dream, I am led to my lost extended family!"
Her tail twitches as she nods to the woman in her vision. "My aunt? My sister? I shall make it my heart's purpose to fulfill this investigation, until, like all things of this world, eventually, it is past."
Although Kayahidye has the appearance of a cat, she breaks her fast on what may be a bird's meal.
She listens to Cernan and Natanja's conversation with interest, and then says,
"Being a weapon of sorts myself, for my part, I have no need of 'proper weapons.' However, I am not one to hurry into things, and I surely would enjoy watching a skilled craftsman at work, if you wouldn't mind." Smiling warmly, she nods politely to her cousin Cernan.
"However, I do recall in the dream, our mutual relative mentioned that it is possibly 'already too late' for Endurant. I would suggest we go there in all haste to see how things are. Perhaps you could take your tools with you, and should things appear at peace when we arrive, perhaps there shall be time to craft there. It would appear have enough people to perform multiple tasks once we have established whether the circumstances at Endurant are an emergency."
Poterol closes his eyes and nods to the news of family. "To be kin is special. I daresay we might find others along this journey who share in our ancestor. Raphael..."
Merry nips his ear, present even in a dream. "I shall do my best to aid you, Kinblood Angelina. I do not believe I have traveled to Endurant before, but if it is like other villages, I might be able to spot things out of place."
At breakfast, Poterol listens quietly, feeding Merry a few berries. When Eli goes to pass out the resources, however, he declines. "I have no use for coin of such magnitude currently. Let it be what is held back for dire need." He also huffs at himself and smirks. "I'm also a spendthrift when it comes to coin. If I do not carry it, I shall not waste it."
When Natanja mentions the Endurant, he interjects. "Most of what you see in cities such as this originated in villages. To be sure, some of it went through a great deal of processing, but I have little doubt that Endurant will have any items that we shall require. If a village still stands there, at least."
Answering the feline-esque Kayahidye, Natanja nodded. "If there is urgency, then we should depart as soon as we are done here."
A myriad of thoughts ran through Natanja's head regarding the "kin" assembled in the dining hall.
Natanja's eyes shone with a golden glow tinged with red-orange around the irises when she looked at Poterol. "I can only speak from my own experiences and I have found villages not as well-stocked as larger towns and cities. If Endurant is different, then so be it."
Oko gave a short screech (in tune as she was with Natanja) and then settled.
Natanja reached across and stroked Oko's warm chest with her fingertips.
Azmaria seems distraught during th request, it seemed to go against what she believed. why would god ask? He knows that Azmaria has already answered his calling. and the way she speaks.
Azmaria suddenly awakens. what was that/ why was she talking like that? Am I truly called by God? or is there some other magical force taking advantage of my faith to do their bidding?
She gets up and wash herself, hundreds of thoughts racing through her head.
She take pause to think about things that have happened so far. she drops to her knees in prayer,
dear God, Father and creator, Have you truly called me/ I am your servant before any others. I believed that you sent one of your angels to give me your message, but why do I feel like she is not. Please God, I serve you, Is this woman in my dream your messenger? I need your guidance
Azmaria remains in silent meditation as she listens to see if God will provide the answers.
after a few minutes, Azmaria gets up, she still is a little distraught over everything, seeds of doubt are looking to find their way into her heart. and she is scared.
Vincent sleeps soundly, when he sees the same woman as before. He doesn't say a word, only listens. He hears her say what he is, and his jaw drops, well that explains why I have always felt out of place, but.... His thought ends as she continues. He stands there trying to understand, but all he can do is nod. He wakes up, somewhat refreshed.
Vincent, wakes and heads downstairs to eat breakfast. He doesn't say much, most of the time he tries to process the dream. I cannot act freely, seems like she is trapped somewhere or by someone. I will have to find out how far it is to this Endurant place, not far I hope. When Eli mentions about the funds provided and the speil about 'not his', he takes slight offense to the fact he may or may not be implying Vincent would give it to others. He is smart enough to know that the funds were given to help in getting to or providing aid to Endurant.
He asks around, and finds out that Endurant is only a few days walk from here. He checks his backpack, and organizes his gear to ensure everything is in their proper place. He secures his cestus on his left hand, and meets up with everyone at the entrance to town. He heads off when the group starts, keeping an eye out fir any potential dangers as they go.
During the walk there, Vincent passes the time with some basic tumbling and acrobatics (take 10=21). He plays with his daggers and will make idle chat if prompted to. At night, he eats his meal then goes to sleep, until it is his turn to take watch.
Marius looks flabbergasted. How was such a thing possible? Did angels even do things like that? He'd heard stories, maybe, probably, but him? His family?
He was angel-blooded?
He opens his mouth to speak, but finds all wind gone from his lungs. He has so many questions to ask, so many things he wished were clearer. With a blink, he opens his eyes to the roof of the inn.
"Damn," Marius mutters as he pulled himself out of bed in a sleep-induced stupor. Stretching, he simply shook his head with disbelief. Guess he wouldn't have any more answers today. Things were just getting weirder and weirder. Even Rex seemed to know something was up, his head upright and ears perked back.
"You have a strange dream, too?" He smiles and beckons the wolf over. Rubbing his head and offering a bone that he'd saved from dinner, the large wolf seems hardly any different from a common hound. Marius smiles as Rex sets his teeth into the morsels of meat still on the bone. "Better eat your fill, Rex - we're in for another long haul."
He grabbed his things and made himself semi-presentable before trudging down the stairs. Mornings were never really Marius's cup of tea. Everything interesting seemed to happen in the dead of night, and it was far easier to avoid malcontents in the dark than the day. Heading up to the table, still groggy, he plops himself down without another word.
Marius peers up over his tea with the mention of purchases and supplies. For a while, he listens, contents to simply let everything settle itself while he puzzles over the dream. He was still incredulous about that whole thing. These people were his family? His pack, as Shyness had put it? Taking another long sip of his tea, he gave himself a small shrug.
Only time would tell.
I can only speak from my own experiences and I have found villages not as well-stocked as larger towns and cities.
"I agree," Marius finally pipes up. "I can't speak for where you all hail from, but in my experiences a man relies more on himself the further he travels from the cities. If Endurant is in as dire straits as it sounds, we would be foolish not to prepare."
"I agree," Marius finally pipes up. "I can't speak for where you all hail from, but in my experiences a man relies more on himself the further he travels from the cities. If Endurant is in as dire straits as it sounds, we would be foolish not to prepare."
Upon hearing Marius' words which echoed her sentiments, the colour around Natanja's irises changed again, back to a vivid golden hue. She smiled at the male with the wolf companion, grateful for his support and foresight.
"It would be wise to gather provisions for the journey," Kayahidye concedes, and then smiles, "And I would enjoy seeing more of the city." She pauses for a moment, her tail twitches, "Still, we should not linger here too long, unless we must."
She spends a moment admiring the great bird perched on Natanja's arm, as well as turning the occasional wary, though amused glance at the beast at Marius' heels.
She then speaks to her cousin, "Dear cousin Natanja, your bird friend is most beautiful. I do not know the species very well though- is Oko a falcon or hawk?" She smiles warmly at her cousin, and then turns another subtle, wary glance at the slavering beast at her other cousin's heels.
"More like your great-great-great-great grandmother, I think. But, yes."
Poterol, although you have not specifically heard of the Angel Raphael before, as far as you can remember, you do know that powerful celestial entities (known by most mortals as Angels) are occasionally active in various places in the World, and these Angels do sometimes create powerful half-celestial children from relationships with mortals.
Can you shed more light on what greater purpose we all strive together to achieve or what event we need to stop? Also were there others that received your dreams but declined to help you? Should we be concerned that any greater evils already have begun moves to stop us?
"Dear cousin Natanja, your bird friend is most beautiful. I do not know the species very well though- is Oko a falcon or hawk?" She smiles warmly at her cousin...
Cousin. Strange how just yesterday Natanja believed she was the last living member of her family. Now there were all these distant celestial kin ...
Natanja smiled warmly at Kayahidye and drew Oko onto her arm and closer to her kin.
"She is hawk. I will show you why. Hawks are generally larger, yet have shorter, wider wings with rounded ends. They have smoother beaks, see here, there is a simple curve because hawks use their talons to snatch and kill their prey and falcons use their beaks to break their prey's neck. Oko is indeed beautiful. Thank you, cousin."
Angelina hesitates but nods.
"It makes sense that you would wish to know more.
Let us say for now that I have reason to strongly suspect a man of significant power and influence of consorting with a particularly powerful fiend and, in fact, of helping this fiend to secretly consolidate his power here in the World.
At present, these entities have no reason to take any action against you and the others, or even to have any idea of your existence, and I'd like to keep it that way for as long as possible.
My hands are tied. I don't wish for yours to be.
The more specific my communication, the more likely it could be magically detected.
For now, it is my hope that you and the others chosen will grow in strength and experience together as a team, all the while collecting information about and evidence of this plot, and doing what can reasonably be done to thwart it.
There are other distant kin I reached out to in dreams, but they either did not have the skills and adventurous nature that those of you chosen did, or they were at an age or stage in life where calling them away from their families would have been wrong.
It is my belief that those of you chosen are tough enough, skilled enough, and free enough to face this challenge, and may hopefully stop a great evil.
I wish you grace!"
Eventually Azmaria comes downstairs. she looks a little less cheerful as she was.
She gets some breakfast and quietly eats. to those around her, her mood is a bit somber. she offers a blessing before eating just the same.
she seems even more confused and at a loss than before.
After breakfast she gathers her belongings. and follows the lead of Eli, when he decides to leave she does as well.
|
Finally, the request of the Lady sinks in to her consciousness. She stands straight, clapping her fist to her chest. "You give me a blood tribe. Another debt owed. My word is given."
A few minutes after dawn, Shyness enters the inn from outside, singing softly under her breath, her mood joyful. Joining the others at the table, she says, "The cock crows, the sun rises, the morning mist burns away. A welcome omen." She again piles her plate with enough food for several people, eating mostly meat.
Eventually Azmaria comes downstairs. she looks a little less cheerful as she was.
She gets some breakfast and quietly eats. To those around her, her mood is a bit somber. She offers a blessing before eating just the same.
She seems even more confused and at a loss than before.
"Furrowed brow, the reason, Sister?," she asks
Shyness refuses the coin. "I will not increase the debt that cannot be repaid."
"Dear cousin Natanja, your bird friend is most beautiful. I do not know the species very well though- is Oko a falcon or hawk?" She smiles warmly at her cousin...Natanja smiled warmly at Kayahidye and drew Oko onto her arm and closer to her kin.
"She is hawk. I will show you why. Hawks are generally larger, yet have shorter, wider wings with rounded ends. They have smoother beaks, see here, there is a simple curve because hawks use their talons to snatch and kill their prey and falcons use their beaks to break their prey's neck. Oko is indeed beautiful. Thank you, cousin."
Kayahidye listens attentively, her eyes following sister Natanja's gestures to the rounded wings and smooth beak.
"I see, and Oko's talons are indeed like little curved blades! I did not know of the different styles of hunting of the hawk and falcon. Fascinating!"
She looks at the way her fiery relative handles her bird, and the complete comfort the bird seems to have on her Natanja's arm.
"It seems to me that you and Oko have quite a rapport; you appear to share a bond that is more than trainer and bird, yes? I would love to hear your story, cousin, of you and your hawk. My family has always been the monks of the Parakamaghara temple. You and the others here are the first blood-kin I have known. I wish to know more about you, so would share your and Oko's story, cousin, over breakfast this morning?"
With one set of fingers curved and another lain over them, clasping hands as such, Kaya respectfully bows her head and shoulders with her request. She waits calmly, serenely for her sister-cousin's response, though her bright topaz eyes shine with anticipation in the cool morning light.
"Furrowed brow, the reason, Sister?," she asks
Shyness refuses the coin. "I will not increase the debt that cannot be repaid."
Azmaria looks up at the girl asking the question, I'm sorry, but the dream, the message, it has left me rather confused, so many questions, It feels as if the very foundation of my faith is all wrong. But I don't want to give up my faith that there is more at work, more to understand. I think, I, think, maybe, I'm a little afraid of what I may discover.
As you all come downstairs to eat breakfast and make preparations, you eventually notice that Andrei doesn't show up.
There is no response to a knock. The door is unlocked. The room is empty.
They tell you that the boy on night shift said someone named Andrei left a note in case anyone asked about him. It simply reads:
"I'm sorry but I've got a bad feeling 'bout all this. I'm leaving. Hope you guys don't all get yourselves killed. -Andrei"
You don't find him.
"It seems to me that you and Oko have quite a rapport; you appear to share a bond that is more than trainer and bird, yes? ... I wish to know more about you, so would share your and Oko's story, cousin, over breakfast this morning?"
"Aye, cousin, our bond is closer. Oko is my spirit animal -- you could describe her as a spiritual emissary -- sent to me by Eth, the Flame Spirit. It is through her that I can reach the depth of my divine, fire magic and the guidance of Eth."
"My human parents were clergymen dedicated to the Grand Temple of the Enduring Sun in the capital, Fyrah. They would serve and protect the sacred contents within the temple, and, I together with other Emberkin, travelled cities and towns across Niris recruiting people in the fight against the dark forces and their encroaching threat on Niris. I am also a fair healer and have provided my services where needed. The rest is a longer story and can be discussed on the roads ahead, cousin. I, too, would like to learn a little more about your history and life ... It is no good for kith and kin to be such strangers."
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In much lowered voice, as gossiping was not her thing, Natanja voiced her thoughts on the leaving to Kayahidye,
Kayahidye's go wide at the mention of the spirit animal, ”So Oko is far more than she appears! Though then again, judging by the radiance you both exude, perhaps you are exactly as you appear,” Kayahidye muses with a pensive smile.
Kayahidye pauses to reflect on the rest of the story. ”Eth,” she tries the sound of the name, ”so you are touched by fire cousin, no, I would rather say, I see much of Eth's flame in you. Yes, you have much energy, and I imagine many must be drawn to it.”
Kaya nods sagaciously then says, “I would love to hear more of your story, though I imagine it must be a long one indeed, with all of your experience doing battle with dark forces- in the area around the capital city no less! In any case, I get the impression you know yourself well, which is a great advantage.”
When asked about her own story, Kayahidye opens her mouth as if to speak, revealing some of her pointy, white feline teeth, as her amber eyes seem to search the air for the story. Finding it, she smiles and speaks in a silky, soothing voice.
"As I said, my family was the monks of the Parakamaghara Temple, which is perched high up in the Cloud Wreath Mountains east of here. I was found there as a baby, and taken in. During my life time there, I learned the teachings of Kamali, the Lotus Saint. I discovered inner peace- and a way to share it with others. I learned how to use my body as a weapon, and how to disarm other warriors by taking their intent to fight."
Kaya chuckles to herself, "This helped greatly in my wanderings through the mountains, especially in making peace between warring tribes, dealing with the many beasts there. I searched the mountains for my parents, and spent time with the Catfolk clans, and even learned their language. However, none of them knew of me, or my birth parents. Eventually, the monks began to say that I drifted out of the clouds themselves!"
She sighs and bows her head in reflection. Then looking up with a warm smile, she concludes.
"However, now I know a distant ancestor, and many extended kin! That is a start I suppose, but it raises many more questions. I agree though, that more of such talk is best spent on the long road ahead, to shorten the journey, as some say!"
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Azmaria looks up at the girl asking the question, I'm sorry, but the dream, the message, it has left me rather confused, so many questions, It feels as if the very foundation of my faith is all wrong. But I don't want to give up my faith that there is more at work, more to understand. I think, I, think, maybe, I'm a little afraid of what I may discover.
Shyness nods, believing she understands. Trying to be reassuring, she says, "Honor is gained by facing the fears we find when searching within our minds. If there is no fear, what is there to defeat? What is the conflict, Sister?" Her demeanor makes it clear that she is very interested.
"Eth,” she tries the sound of the name, ”so you are touched by fire cousin, no, I would rather say, I see much of Eth's flame in you. Yes, you have much energy, and I imagine many must be drawn to it.”"
Natanja continues to speak/reply discreetly,
"I am Emberkin, by divine heritage, and we, peri-blooded Aasimars, have great skill with fire-magic. My bond with the Flame Spirit, Eth, has only deepened the flame within, cousin. And aye, some are drawn and some repelled, depending on their preferences and proclivities. I, however, am confident in my own skin and nature. This has given me an emotional and mental strength. I was fortunate to have had opportunities to speak, learn from and work beside other Emberkin in my homeland."
"... my family was the monks of the Parakamaghara Temple, which is perched high up in the Cloud Wreath Mountains east of here. I was found there as a baby, and taken in. During my life time there, I learned the teachings of Kamali, the Lotus Saint. I discovered inner peace- and a way to share it with others. I learned how to use my body as a weapon, and how to disarm other warriors by taking their intent to fight."
"My apologies, cousin. I have not heard of this Lotus Saint or of the Cloud Wreath Mountains. I am gladdened to hear that you have honed your form into keen weapon and have attained inner peace for it will be a boon to the group when we undertake these goodly missions. I cannot say that I have attained similar inner peace -- possibly a simple form of acceptance of who and what I am. But I am driven -- as if my very life is dependent upon it. There is not much harmony in that."
"This helped greatly in my wanderings through the mountains, especially in making peace between warring tribes, dealing with the many beasts there. I searched the mountains for my parents, and spent time with the Catfolk clans, and even learned their language. However, none of them knew of me, or my birth parents. Eventually, the monks began to say that I drifted out of the clouds themselves!"
Natanja reached out her hand and softly placed it on her cousin's arm; her eyes filled with warm golden light. "I have not come across Catfolk. My hopes are that you discover the identity of your birth parents and gain the answers that you seek. With so many varied kin in our group, a peacemaker or peacekeeper will be most useful." Natanja winked at Kayahidye.
”I’m so happy to see you again.” Kiwyn said in an almost sing-song tone before finally releasing her captive. ”Sit, sit.” She tugs the woman down onto a blanket that was not there a moment ago. The kitsune sits as she was the day she was born, her fur giving her some modesty, but she shows no signs discomfort.
"I hope everything went well today. I hope you like your family members.
Yes, you are all family. You share a common ancestor... my Grandfather... an Angel known as Raphael here in the mortal World. It seems he was quite active here. He got around."A slight smile crosses her lips, and you feel a warm glow in your heart.
"As far as I can tell, none of you are closely related enough to be called cousins, even distant ones, but you are family, nonetheless.
It is because of this blood connection that I am able to contact you in this way."
Kiwyn returns the smile. ”I can not be sure if all ‘went well’.” She says apologetically. ”They are all so strong willed it seems. I still can’t believe that someone like me found be of blood. But I like to think we are all of one family.”
"I'm afraid I'm not currently ... at liberty to act as freely as I would like... but I hope that, for now, you will be my eyes and hands in the World, insofar as what I ask furthers the common good. Will you help me?"
A strong force within you wants to turn her pleading gaze into one of approval and gratitude. Presuming you agree, she continues...
Kiwyn’s eyes widen some as she places her paws on Angelina’s hands. ”Of course I will help. I may not be as strong as the others and I do not know how I can yet help, but I will try my best.” She offers comfortingly.
"The plot is complex. Even I do not fully understand it. So, before I send you to the heart of the matter, you need to grow in strength and experience as a team, and I need to gather information through you.
Based on something I overheard recently, I am concerned for the safety of a small village to the north of Vigilant, also on the Western border of Theramark, but more isolated, and off the main trade routes. This village is named Endurant.
Please, travel north to Endurant together, and see if anything unusual is going on there. It may be nothing, it may be vigilantes, it may be fiendish forces, and it may even be too late, but please see if there is anything you can do to help, and, if there is something unusual going on there, please try to find out who's behind it and who or what they're looking for. I'll have Eli ask the Green Tree Innkeepers Alice and Bob for the funds and items I left behind with them. Use these wisely to assist in your missions. Be careful. Powerful forces are at work behind the scenes. I will visit you again in dreams when I can. Thank you, and may God bless you with safety and success!"The dream fades, and you wake with the dawn.
The warm breeze of the field fades with the dying light of the setting sun until blackness envelopes the kitsune. Kiwyn sleepily wakes from her slumber and stretches. Looking around the room briefly she ponders the last of the dream she had received.
She double checks the lock on her door before dropping her shapeshifting and sitting on the bed. She continues pondering as she brushes out her fur and tails. Standing and dressing again she regards herself in her mirror before changing back into her human form. Gathering her supplies she makes her bed and straightens up the room before heading downstairs.
She smiles and greets the others as she moves to get breakfast. She pauses to give the Treekeeps respectful bows and to thank them once again. ”Thank you again for all of your hospitality.” To the others she gives a traditional greeting in her native language.
As she eats she listens to Eli. When he offers the money she accepts it with a smile and a nod. ”This is not a gift, but a responsibility I have been entrusted with. If luck is with us we will be able to return his to her once she is safe.” Kiwyn pockets the coins, hiding them in her scarf. Looking around at the others she comments.
”I don’t have anything I need to get myself, but I will gladly accompany anyone who wishes for company.
Her glances lingers on Kaya for a moment before she quickly returns to her breakfast.
The boy…
”Vincent I think he said.” She thinks to herself.
…remained as quiet as he had been when he arrived last night. Kiwyn could not yet get a feel for him.
Cernan, Poterol, and Marius’ debate on the urgency of their trip troubles the kitsune. ”If this Endurant is endangered so, we should not delay longer then necessary.”
Chap’s state was one she was familiar with from her travels and the kitsune suppressed a little giggle at woman’s composure.
Azmaria’s somber mood is disheartening but Kiwyn does not know the girl well enough to attempt to sooth her. She is thankful when Shyness tries to ease the girl’s troubled spirit.
”Aren’t they related to harriers and eagles as well. I know many hunters back home would train them to hunt small animals for them.” Kiwyn adds curiously. ”Does she do so as well?”
”I was also raised in a temple.” She says, looking over at Kaya. ”Tho I was taken there as when I was but a cub. They had told me and my family I had been chosen by the goddess and given a sign that I was destined for a greater purpose.” Kiwyn tries to sound cheerful but a small frown touches the corners of her mouth.
Content to listen to the stories, Marius enjoys his breakfast. The tales told, however, only serve to floor him more. What he'd imagined was a kindred spirit in Natanja, turned out to be something else entirely. Oko was no mere bird. And his distant relatives have all had very enlightening lives. Temples and destinies, calls from God.
How did he fit into all of this?
He slips Rex a piece of meat, the wolf eagerly - but carefully - picking it from his hand. Marius couldn't help but wonder if there was more to Rex than it seemed. He had been the only member of his pack to escape corruption. Maybe he was another spirit, some connection to the heavens.
The wolf scarfed the meat down and then looked up for more. Perhaps not.
"So," Marius says as he pushes those thoughts into the back of his mind, "What more do we need for our journey?"
”Aren’t they related to harriers and eagles as well. I know many hunters back home would train them to hunt small animals for them.” Kiwyn adds curiously. ”Does she do so as well?”
"Aye, they are indeed related to each other. I have not trained Oko to hunt small animals -- she is well able to hunt for food or locate creatures on her own. Which is certainly a boon for me. Oko is more my connection to the spirit world and I am most grateful."
As Kiwyn shared her upbringing in the temple, Natanja listened even though the girl's remarks were addressed (in main) to Kayahidye.
”I was also raised in a temple.” She says, looking over at Kaya. ”Tho I was taken there as when I was but a cub. They had told me and my family I had been chosen by the goddess and given a sign that I was destined for a greater purpose.” Kiwyn tries to sound cheerful but a small frown touches the corners of her mouth.
"Were you not entirely happy with the explanation? Or was it the temple upbringing? Perhaps it has more to do with these shared dreams we are experiencing?"
Content to listen to the stories, Marius enjoys his breakfast... He slips Rex a piece of meat, the wolf eagerly - but carefully - picking it from his hand. Marius couldn't help but wonder if there was more to Rex than it seemed.
"So," Marius says as he pushes those thoughts into the back of his mind, "What more do we need for our journey?"
Natanja's attention was caught by Marius, who had for the most part sat silently eating and listening. Natanja smiled softly at his interaction with his wolf companion. She could not abide those who mistreated their animals...Marius certainly wasn't such an offender. The wolf, Rex, trusted him, that was obvious. And good.
Upon Marius' question, Natanja turned her head to look at Eli, then Cernan. Both males seemed to exude leadership or at least some experience and inner knowledge. Natanja was not certain what they would find in Endurant but she truly believed it was better to be prepared than not.
Azmaria looks up at the girl asking the question, I'm sorry, but the dream, the message, it has left me rather confused, so many questions, It feels as if the very foundation of my faith is all wrong. But I don't want to give up my faith that there is more at work, more to understand. I think, I, think, maybe, I'm a little afraid of what I may discover.Shyness nods, believing she understands. Trying to be reassuring, she says, "Honor is gained by facing the fears we find when searching within our minds. If there is no fear, what is there to defeat? What is the conflict, Sister?" Her demeanor makes it clear that she is very interested.
Azmaria is silent for a few minutes. trying to figure out exactly how to sawy what she wants to say. Do you believe in God? The almighty, The creator?
I do, I put my trust in him. after the vision I was given, I now feel tested, How can the Angels of heaven, I mean How can I be...It just does not make sense. The real question now is, who am I?
She thinks for a bit. her eyes go closed and she seems to be in silent prayer.
soon she opens her eyes, I am the daughter of God. I am among the chosen. and I will put my faith and trust in him. she says with affirmation.
Looking to Shyness, Thank you for helping me, this journey is a test of my... no... Our faith. and We will not fail.
despite Shyness not really saying anything, it seems her mere comforting touch was enough, and Azmaria's faith seems renewed, at least for now.
"If you want answers, Azmaria," Cernan calls out from the nearby corner where he is disinterestedly eating his breakfast, "Try actually searching for them, instead of just making assumptions. We've been given a job that involves a lot of looking for answers... do enough of that, and you might find it a bit more useful than all that dogma you've been carting around."