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 Posted: Tue May 22, 2012 9:27 pm
Three Little Lifeflames: The Birth of Guardians, Grief, and Lament
RP Between Zero Dream & Thabara in which the children are born.Zero Dream  Everyone had gone their separate way, now - Ea and Illumin had gone, and so had Ankou, absent from even his own chambers, once he had made sure they, well, especially her was settled. Wherever the spirit guide was headed to, he hadn't told. Perhaps he knew she needed time to digest what he had told the pair - how long they had actually been gone, and how it had affected her - or, more fittingly, how it had affected the children. And then there had been the revelation that almost everything she had gathered for herself, the home of precious and bitter memories, the small place she had made her home, gone with only unstable rubbles left behind and a few things the boys had managed to get out from either sides. That was indeed a whole lot to process, all at once.
The violin and guitar where mostly whole, but the strings had given in to decay. Maybe, later, she would restring them with some of her own, divine ones. She honestly had no idea if they would grow back if she cut them, or if it would hurt her - they seemed to have a mind of their own, lashing back and forth like a cat's tail. But now wasn't really the time for it.
Or, perhaps, the spirit guide knew what was to come, and gave the pair the intimity needed for such a moment. The three remained whisps darted, back and forth, as if impatient and waiting for something to happen. They where strong and bright, now - each with it's own distinct color - one a pale blue, the other a pale purple, and the last, the bold one, a vibrant shade of emerald green, and all she could really do was look at them, weariness and fatigue apparent on her face.
Apparently, the children where ready, she had no idea what do to, and the one person she could think could tell her how to do this... was missing an arm and probably had much, much more important things to worry about.
Thabara  Nergal had spent most of the past few minutes pacing up and down, until Echo had shot him a wary and annoyed glare which made him stop in his track immediately. For now he remained standing ramrod straight at the window, glancing out at the devastating landscape, hands folded behind his back.
The news Ankou had brought, the loss of their joined house, was bitter, but did not hit him as hard as it apparently was the case for Echo. To him, it always had been but a temporary dwelling, something he hadn't allowed himself to get overly attached to, despite everything. The star-painted ceiling in the bedroom, however, he would sorely miss.
But all this paled in comparison to the onslaught of voices. War, Plague, Famine and Decay - each of them had claimed plenty of sacrifices. And while the world might now seem surprisingly quiet and devoid of people to everyone else.. to him it now was more crowded than ever, a constant reminder of his own shortcomings. He sighed, and then - in a sudden move - slammed his open palm against the window pane. Such an outbreak was atypical for him, telltale of just how upset and frustrated he was. He should have taken Destruction's offer, no matter the consequences. He should be able to do something, now. Do something for the dead instead of merely have them heed his command.
"I am sorry," he murmured, glancing at Echo's tired and distraught face. " I did not mean to unsettle you.." He left the window, kneeling down at her side, his gaze filled with concern. "Is there anything I could do for you, something I could get you?" The children were due soon, Ankou had told them, the time flux between the world having abruptly sped up their growth and massively drained the goddess bearing the little ones. It was obvious they were ready to be born, even if the Spirit Guide hadn't taken the time to explain. Their little life flames were burning brighter than ever, a faint streak of hope in this world where everything seemed to fall apart and go downhill.
He did not know what to do. His domain was death. Births.. where about as opposite to it as it could possibly get.
Zero Dream The slamming, sudden and loud, only helped to add to her rapidly-growing headache, ears pinning down in reaction. "It... is alright." But even that seemed forced, in the state she was in right now. Ìt was already a wonder she was keeping her voice low and level, as is.
The three wisps continued to dart back and forth, waiting, and apparently where a little bit impatient. Still, that did not give her any idea as of what she was supposed to do with them. This was, granted, a bit more abstract than the way she would have expected to have children.... Not that she'd actually expected she would. ...Just like she had once expected the Underworld would not return her feelings.
Though, with how everything had been so... scrambled and non-stop action ever since he had returned, that seemed like ages ago in her mind.
Jinx had come to stand at the edge of the room after Nergal had slammed the window, suddenly worried something else had broken in, and had been about to turn back to her rooms on softly padded feet before she hesitated. They both looked quite... lost. And honestly had no idea what the hell they ought to be doing. She barely repressed the urge to facepalm. There where days where the feline would have liked to have the station to be able to smack Ankou silly.
It was unorthodox, but that wouldn't be the oddest way she would have seen little lifeflames form out. She padded the few steps separating her from the bed and whispered something in Echo's ear, simply nodding along to the confused look the goddess sent her.
Thabara "What did she tell you?" Nergal asked. Obviously whatever Ankou's aoide had told her wasn't meant for his ears, or there wouldn't have been the need to whisper in the first place, but Echo's confounded look more than perked his curiosity.
Zero Dream "...Sing." She still looked a bit dumbfounded, even as the black-furred form slid into another room, restoring the intimity of the two while remaining alert as she needed to be.
But really, it was quite silly for her to hesitate, given that she had no idea on how to do it, herself. So, she stopped overthinking the matter and closed her eyes. The first wisp, the bright emerald green one, darted to her, settling in her cupped palm. Even there, getting it - no, him, she realized now, to stay still was a struggle.
Her firstborn would be a son.
The little lifeflame was not making a sound, but to her it almost seemed like it was talking very loudly, and very clearly. Eyes still closed, she moved forward, face level with the top of the little flame, so close that it seemed to caress the tip of her purple lips as it flickered.
After a few seconds that had felt like hours, those lips finally parted.
"Silence and cold, crisp air
Standing still into the tomb of kings
Only I stand, akin to a statue, watching, waiting
For those that would dare defile the dead.
Nothing escapes my eyes
For I am the Guardian of the earthly remains of those who passed."
When the last intense word was spoken, the wisp trailed down, flickering, shifting - taking the form of green-skinned boy, with equally jade-colored strands of hair on top of his head, a small tail trailing down along Echo's leg as he laid against her, apparently now asleep and exausted by the process of finally coming into proper existance.
Thabara Underworld watched - listened - with bated breath as his first child was sung into being. For a little while he did not dare to move, as if even the slightest action taken by him, ruler of all which was dead would undo this miracle somehow.
Child.
His child.
His.
He had a son.
Finally he sidled closer to Echo, gently laying one arm around her waist, while his other hand reached out to touch upon the deep green skin, trailing lightly along the pointed shape of the ears, ruffling the silky strands of hair, just a little. He still did not dare to speak, but his eyes were wide, filled with wonder.
Zero Dream She leaned against him, without really noticing that she was. With her son settled against her, her hands rose again, and the light blue wisp trailed in her cupped palms, though she seemed calmer, easier to keep still.
She. A daughter, now. The sorrow that lingered around her surprised her for a moment. She probably should have seen this coming - that the current times, perhaps, would call for her. So many lost, so many under her influence before she could even be.
"Death takes all, and leaves me behind
A touch of sorrow in the wake of loss
But without I wounds would remain raw
and broken hearts would never mend in the wake of loss
Nothing left behind by the tears I've shed
For I am the Grief that follows loss."
Just like the first, the second flame moved - and as it did, shifted into being, smaller than the one that had preceded her, more delicate. Pale blue skin and raven black hairs framed her face, but even as her eyes where closed there seemed to be something different - her eyelids shutting flat as if there was nothing behind them. She settled against her brother soundlessly, also asleep.
Thabara He cradled Echo's form closer against his own, noticing how she seemed to tire, even if she herself did not. Intently he listened to her Song, committing the verse to memory as the second child was born, taking on physical form.
A girl, this time, with the pale blue skin and the black hair eerily reminiscent of how he had looked while his hosts features had still dominated his appearance. Sorrow? No, Grief, he corrected himself, again not able to resist the urge to touch, fingers trailing the strangely dull strands of black hair.
He noticed something seemed off about the girl's face, fair as it was, the look familiar from the sunken in eyelids of the mummies which had been placed under his protection in days of yore. He wondered if Echo had noticed, but did not dare to voice his concerns before the last would be born. It would not do, to distract Echo from this tiring yet wonderful task.
A moment later, he was entirely distracted by the discovery the boy had a tail, wagging ever so slightly in his sleep. Underworld's expression was.. quite priceless, if anyone actually paid attention to it.
Zero Dream With the pale blue skinned girl settled, there was only one left, the pale purple wisp, who seemed to linger for a moment, as if unsure if he really wanted to do this or not, but eventually fluttered in his mother's awaiting palm just like his siblings had done before him. He could not stay here forever, and, really, it was lonely here now that his siblings had gone.
This time, it was a familiar feeling that came off from the lifeflame, words spinning and waiting to be strung together and told. She would have smiled a little wider, if that had been even possible for her physical form to do so.
She would not be the one to lead the dead where they should go, but there was no bitterness in conceding this part of her to her own son.
"I follow Her lead, by her side to stir what she leaves
crafting beauty from tears that fall, moving hearts in my wake
Song or words, it matters not to I, for they are mine to weave
Both have the one thing in common, governed by sadness
May they follow my voice, wherever they lay
For I am the Lament of ages to come."
Just like his siblings, the third started to shift, even through there was an apparent problem - there was no space left in mommy's lap. Oh well. Instead of going downward, he darted sideways - there was more than enough space left in daddy's lap, after all. Features shifted, reminiscent of his mother where their sole daughter had seemed to take for him, or at least, what he used to be. Fair, deep skin with strand of hairs thin like spiderwebs, much like his father's had been before being dreaded once more, through the effect was mostly ruined on a visual level due to the pale lavender coloration and the slight wave. The last child settled against Nergal's chest with a small, tired whine.
Thabara Nergal already barely dared to move, but as the last small lifeflame headed into his direction unexpectetly, he stilled completely, not wanting to accidentally do anything which might scare it away. A tremor went through his body ever so slightly as his last child took on physical shape as well, an unruly mess of silky lavender hair coming to rest against his chest.
Finally, Underworld stirred, one hand gently stroking over the boy's fine hair before he struggled to somehow include the other two children in some sort of awkward embrace.
"Welcome to the world," he finally whispered, his voice almost giving in. What were those tears doing, springing forth from his eyes? This was a joyous moment, not one to weep, and he was smiling indeed.
Where there had previously been lovers, a couple, there now was a family.
Zero Dream And at last, it was done, and Echo opened her eyes at last - finally able to see her children for the first time, and she was quite sure her heart skipped a few beats. She seemed to barely be able to believe this had actually happened for a moment, one hand going for the girl's dull black hair, touch light as if she was afraid to hurt them as they sleep.
My daughter. My sons. ...My children.
Much like her lover, there was unhidden awe in her eyes, and tears sliding down her cheek.
Thabara He did not know how long they had been sitting there that way, Echo and the boy comfortably huddled against him, the only sound the soft hum of her wings and their deep, regular breaths. For the first time in months, ever since he had been taken - maybe even before - things felt right.
The green one was drooling in his sleep, he noticed, not entirely sure if he should feel amused or appalled by it. And the girl.. He interrupted his own train of thoughts, sighing internally as he noticed something.
"Have you thought about names?" he asked, gently, not wanting to disturb the content and peaceful atmosphere. But he couldn't refer to his children as 'the green one', 'the girl' and so on all the time, nor did he comfortable referring to them by their domain.
Zero Dream The sudden sound of his voice, after the long silence, seemed to startle her, as if she had been just about half asleep.. "Not... not yet." There hadn't been time. She had learnt of their existence, and then they where off. The events unfolding in their quest had not given here much time to think, even less about something so serious as names.
And yet, it was painfully apparent that the time would also not be now. The goddess was struggling to remain awake, as is.
Thabara He nodded quietly, half having expected an answer along those lines. It was more than obvious she could barely keep her eyes open now. "Sleep then," he said, breathing a kiss upon her cheek. "Rest. It can wait." Oh, how he wished that was true.
Zero Dream She nodded in answer, and then quickly fell asleep, right where she was - through her sleep rather quickly became deep enough so that he could move her without even coming close to waking her.
Thabara He sighed, knowing she had fallen deep asleep when her body grew heavy against his. Gently he let her slip down into the pillows, and lifted the lavender-haired boy from his lap to rest against his mother's side. For a while he busied himself quietly with arranging pillows and blankets, so that they'd have it as warm and comfortable as possible. Time and again he simply stopped to gaze upon his little family, eyes still filled with wonder and trying to grasp the miracle which had occurred, that he'd just become a father.
Except for the girl they didn't look anything like him, he realized, and even she only resembled his former morphed, still half-mortal form. But then again they were gods, so this didn't mean much. Before they had been reborn they had not been bound to unchanging physical shape like this. Their forms had been many.
"I wont be gone for long," he said, gently, and breathed a kiss upon Echo's lips. She was asleep, but that didn't mean she wouldn't hear him.
That she wouldn't sense him leave.
"Just.. We have been gone for weeks, on this plane. I need to find out.. What there has been going on in the meanwhile. If there is hope." Four weeks. They had been gone for four weeks in this world. And while it otherwise would only have been naught but the blink of an eye in his divine life, now it was..
He sighed, shook his head. There had been another question lingering on his lips, but it would have to wait, just as his children would have to remain nameless for now. He rose, straightened. There had to be something he could do.
Now.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 5:39 am
Names, Names, Names
Group RP with Thabara, Zero, & Reyna! The children are given their names.Thabara Nergal had a hard time resisting the urge to simply slam the door back into lock. That demon's pretentious behavior had been infuriating, the stabs of his provocations even more so.
His gaze falling upon his lover and children huddled against each other, all sound asleep still, caused his anger to simply evaporate from one second to the next. Underworld's features softened, and he caught the door to close it very, very quietly, leaning his back against it and content to simply watch for a little while. He did not want to disturb his little family's sleep.
What could he do? The throne wasn't his, even though he hadn't even tried thanks to that obnoxious demon's interference. But, certainly he'd know if it was his to take? He sighed. Perhaps. Perhaps not. He really had to stop to simply make assumptions.
But what could he do now.
His gaze rested upon his children. He knew their domains, which was more than Eamnonn had known for quite a while of his children, and yet..
He pursed his lips thoughtfully. The Pantheon had a grand library, he knew so with certainty from Li-- from Cosine. Certainly there must be books on names? He sneaked back out just as quietly as he had come, only to return about two hours later, bearing a huge pile of books in his arms.
He had met no one in the library, apparently neither gods nor aoidei tending to the place right now, so he had left a note detailing which books he had signed out and where to find them. As long as they remained within the building, he figured, it would be fine.
As quietly as he could, he nested on the edge of the bed and started to flip through the first book.
Zero Dream
Echo had not moved any in the time that he had been gone, sprawled in exactly the same position that she had been when he had left to the library, hair having come undone from her ponytail and surrounding her as if it was some sort of aura. The culprit would become known when it would be noticed that lament was clutching the ribbon she had used to tie it up. While it seemed like the children had awakened and tossed about a bit, now everyone was calm, silent, and asleep.
A completely different scenario than what was going on outside.
One blue on blue eye opened when he sat at the other side of the bed, a lazy smile drawing itself on her face. This wasn't a bad image to wake up to, not at all. And it seemed that they where now completely alone - even Jinx was nowhere to be seen.
"Guess we will need to apologize to your brother for the sudden invasion of personal space, hmm ?" Yet, even as she said that, she did not move an inch. She was awake, but apparently not quite willing to separate herself from her children at the moment.
Her children.
It still felt surreal, somehow, yet they where there - three beautiful little ones that could not have been more perfect in her eyes.
Reyna Crelos  One of the children stirred in its sleep with a faint whine and grumble as though protesting to the very thought of being a conscious part of the waking world. He flailed out with one arm and wiggled his way to curl closer to the warmth of his mother and siblings before one eye squinted open blearily, quickly followed by the other. He yawned, tongue curling a bit like a pup who had just woken from a long nap before he wobbily moved to sit up while scrubbing at his face with tiny hands. He peered up at the beautiful woman next to him and up at the looming, pale figure that was haunting the door. His gaze then settled upon the sleeping forms of the people that were quite obviously more 'his' size. The emerald skinned child remained silent and still for a long moment as though contemplating his surroundings and the people he had woken to. Mother. Father. Brother. Sister. Everything else was strange and new, and he was not certain he appreciated it. It was then he decided he shouldn't be the only one that had to suffer and promptly pounced upon his brother in a haphazard fashion with a delighted giggle as the sudden movement sent him tumbling.
Zero Dream  Up until now, the world had only been warmth from his mother and siblings, warmth and comfort and security, and it had been perfectly fine that way.
That is, until something tangible and, most of all, heavy, collided to the physical forms he was still not quite used to being, and both eyes suddenly snapped open, faint golden pupils on platina backing, and he let out a startled wail at his sudden, and rather rude, awakening. When he realized just exactly what had entered in collision with him (nothing too scary, it turned out - only his brother) there was only one proper course of action to answer this.
That was, of course, to pounce right back, with an impish grin on his face, all the while laughing rather innocently and cutely, even if his retort almost sent them tumbling off the bed. That did not seem quite important at the moment. What was important was that his brother was here, he was awake, and they could play, and somehow it was even more fun that way than it had been before.
Thabara Suddenly the place which had been so comfortable and warm until now was jerked into motion, disrupting the small goddesses' peaceful slumber. Pale blue eyelids fluttered open, and her nose crunched up with annoyance. She did not like this, not at all. Her small fingers dug into the fabric of her mother's dress, and she gave off a small whine to voice her displeasure.Nergal looked up from the book he had been studying and quietly watched the scene unfolding, too mesmerized for now to see the tiny godlings move about and in action to really mind the sudden disruption of peace. "He wont mind, I don't think so," he said, adding with a small smile: "He always was the kinder one, I seem to remember."
Reyna Crelos Guardian paused in his flailing, pouncing, and wrestling of his brother at the sound of his sister's whine. He clambered towards her clumsily enough that the bed still wobbled and rocked, albeit to a lesser to a degree than it had a mere moment before. He wrapped an arm about her, and in the process his mother as well, and leaned his cheek against his sister's shoulder to murmur something nonsensical that was meant to be soothing. He was still for a long moment, but before too long it was obvious he was itching to squirm and move about to see what other sorts of things he could see and do. His apparent lack of proper motor skills was hardly enough to stop him. What he lacked in general finesse and ability, he made up for with abundant enthusiasm.
Zero Dream "I guess so." Echo smiled, sliding an arm around the two that where in her reach, a smile that only widened a bit more when her son started to wriggle around once more. Apparently her eldest could not sit still for long, but that somehow.... seemed fitting, for what he represented.
She had been about to ask just why he had brought so many books, but, still waking up as she was, thankfully she answered her own question before it could be voiced out. Names, of course, what was she thinking ?! The matter was getting rather.... pressing, what with the children already moving around and all that.
And to think they where.... ...how long had she slept for, anyway ? She honestly had no idea.
"Have you found anything fitting ?" When the emerald-colored child wriggled out of her loose hold, she settled to stroke her daughter's cheek, in order to continue to calm her.Hey, hey - where had his big brother gone ? They where just starting to ha-
Oh. Oh. When he realized what was going on, he was hot on his brother's heels - which was not saying much, because, even with the the lack of motor skills, the older boy was still much faster then the youngest. By the time he got there, he had started on his grand discovery of the world of the bedroom - fact which the youngest did not seem to mind, as he half-stumbled and half-crawled to lean on his mother's back. He made a discontent face - through that only made him somehow look cuter - and stayed put, even if he had obviously wanted to get closer to his sister.
Oh, well. Mommy had been pretty far away, he deserved the rest. He leaned the side of his face against Echo's back, the glow of her wings making him look almost ethereal. He blinked once, twice, quite obviously thinking hard and looking for something that wasn't exactly easy to pin down. And apparently he couldn't find it, and grumbled, instead lightly resting his hand on his sister's shoulder so that she knew he was right there, and big brother was close too, and daddy and mommy too and everything would be fine. "S.... Sis."
Thabara "Not really. Not yet." Nergal paused and gave a smile as he watched the-- his children's antics. The boys certainly seemed lively enough - being a father also enticed that he would probably be held responsible for any havoc they wreaked, it started to slowly dawn on him - but the girl.. The way she stayed put and clung to her mother, turning her head at every new sound and voice. Nergal's smile faded a little, unsettled that his daughter would be born handicapped like that. It seemed not right, least of all for a goddess.
"I was thinking however," he said, putting the smile back on his face for Echo's sake and holding up the book he had been flipping through. The font on the title seemed outlandish, yet looked distinctly familiar. Greek. "To perhaps stay with the classics?"The girl's soft whine had quieted down upon her brother's touch and the sound of his voice, and her pale lips pulled into a smile, though the corners of her empty eye sockets were still glinting with the moisture of first tears. Hesitantly she stretched out one tiny hand to feel for him, awkwardly patting Guardian's hair, fingering his pointed ears, and getting a good grip on his nose for a moment. Then he was gone again, and the young goddess looked ready to erupt into a full out bawl at his disappearance.
Luckily enough her younger brother's approach distracted her, and her small lips formed into a quiet 'oh'. Cooing quietly at the sound of his voice, she reached out, the fingers of her hand opening and closing in an attempt to get a hold of him. Where was he?Nergal blinked, slightly puzzled. They were speaking already? Well, sure enough, the wisps following Echo about, had seemed aware of their environment. And the way they were already moving about.. They needed clothing, he made a mental note to himself, not to mention a babysitter, a nanny of sorts to watch over them. Which reminded him - where the hell were their aoidei off to?
Reyna Crelos The 'green one' clumsily half-crawled, half-fell off the bed. If it caused him any harm, he was by no means distressed. He looked around as he oriented himself with his surroundings before crawl forward on his hands and knees towards where his father sat. He was going to help! With what, it hardly seemed to matter, but he had large, interesting things that opened. Annoyed at the pace of his crawling he shifted himself upright and attempted to pull himself to his feet by bracing himself against the wall. He laughed, tail wiggling with excitement when he succeeded. The actual walking part was what would prove a challenge. Carefully he put one foot forward only to reel backwards to land with a flop and an irritable mutter. In his point of view, being trapped into this form was officially starting to become a royal disappointment. It was far more fun fluttering about at will. He gazed over at his siblings from where he lay with bright eyes before pushing himself up to begin the tedious process of walking yet again. He wanted those books! He didn't know what they were, but he was going to help.
Zero Dream "The classics, hm ? That sounds like a good starting point, really.." She smiled, shifting to at least sit, mindful of the two children that still clung to her while keeping a close eye on the third, through it seemed she would not intervene unless he got hurt, or was about to break something. The goddess had moved slowly, making sure to do her best not to startle her daughter. It seemed that she had also noticed, but she was either not making a big deal out of it, or keeping her expression extremely guarded on that matter, because nothing showed other than a bit of surprise and wonder. She hadn't expected them to be so... so.... active ? At least not so soon. They must have picked up more as wisps than she had thought. This was a bit awkward, really, but... it may also make things easier ? Because they would probably be able to tell if they did not like the names ? ...If they even understood the concept, of course, but so far, all three had surprised her in their own way.He moved as his mother did - crawling the last few steps that separated him from his sister and sliding to hug her, letting out one of the cutest little grins Echo had ever seen. "Sis !" Apparently now he'd grasped that word a little more fully, and he glanced at his older brother. He wanted to try to, go and explore, but he seemed intent on waiting until his sister was ready, almost as if he also knew she might require someone to act as her eyes, and had no problem with being that someone.
Thabara "Well, this one has sorted names by meaning, not by alphabet, which.. might just be the best way to go about it. To find something which would fit their domain?" He raised from his seat, taking another book from the pile in addition to the one he had been currently browsing, and snatched his firstborn off the floor as he walked towards Echo. "Your pick," he offered, with almost a grin as he adjusted the wriggling child's weight against his waist. "Latin, or Greek. Or something else entirely. There is even more in the library, this.." He glanced at the pile of books back where he had been sitting, with a slightly sheepish look on his face. "This is all I was able to carry safely."The little goddess wriggled excitedly has her brother's arms wrapped around her small form, her little hands reaching up immediately to touch him, to get to know him. Oooooh, there was that soft, silky stuff again~! With a thoroughly happy grin she stuffed a strand of her younger brother's hair into her mouth to nom on it.
Reyna Crelos He flailed and wiggled and squirmed when he was hefted quite suddenly from the floor. He had been making such progress! And yet his father had intervened! He huffed a bit irritably, but his consternation was quickly shoved aside when he realized what his being picked up truly meant -- not only was he closer to his dad, but even closer to the books! Clearly, this worked in his favor. How, he was not entirely sure, aside from the closer proximity to both. (The fact that he was also being carried back to his siblings and mother was simply a bonus.) His fascination with the large tomes however, dissipated almost instantly when he found something else that was infinitely more interesting: Dad's hair. It was not like his! Nor was it like his mother's, brother's, or even his little sister's! With wide-eyed fascination he reached out with one grabby hand and yanked on one loose dread, giggling all the while.
Thabara "Maybe we sho-- Ow!" Nergal gave his eldest a disapproving glare but couldn't do much without either letting go of the boy or the books.
Zero Dream "Gentle." Echo's voice was firm, yet remained soft and kind, somehow. "Touch, but don't pull, okay ?" ...Now that was just plain intervening, but that would at least be better than daddy being a playpen, wouldn't it ?
With that in mind, she glanced up at her lover, smiling sweetly. "You where saying, dear ?"Lament did not seem to terribly mind becoming his sister's... lunch ? And instead giggling happily, one tiny finger poking the tip of her nose. That was new ! So many new things !!
Reyna Crelos "Genle?" He frowned, little brow furrowing and darkening in a way that was highly reminiscent of Underworld's own forboding scowl. No fun, no fun, no fun! He relinquished his grip on his father's hair and resumed his wriggling. Down, down! He wanted down! He strained and flailed out with one arm towards where his brother and sister were, grumbling as he struggled in his father's grip.
Thabara "Nothing," Nergal mumbled, adjusting his grip on his son slightly so that he wouldn't slip off despite his energetic wriggling. "It can wait. Names first." He relinquished his hold on the lively child only once they were right next to his calmer siblings, and he took up seat next to Echo himself, handing her one of the books. "I can get the others too," he offered, "and even more from the library."The girl flinched back a little when her nose was poked out of nowhere, but mostly out of surprise, because the next moment she was giggling, one hand moving with finger outstretched to retaliate. Where was he? She aimed for where the voice had come from, but poked into something soft, not-nose. Hm.
Zero Dream The mirrored expressions almost did her in, but she managed to disguise the sudden fit of giggling into a well-timed cough. At least, that was what she hoped... but that had been so cute !The something soft, not-nose was actually their mother's side, through she did not seem to terribly mind. Kios giggled a bit, sliding off to her side where she could reach him a bit more easily, hand outstretched as if to invite his brother closer.Echo was going through the book that had been handed to her, half-reading and half keeping an eye on the children. Mortal languages where rather interesting, and made for interesting names idea, through for most, she either liked the name, but not the meaning... or the other way around. Through, finally, she seemed to come upon something interesting.
"What about Sotiris ?" It fitted the older boy best, of course, at least as far as domains went, but she wanted to know what Nergal thought of it.
Reyna Crelos Free from his father's arms, little Guardian ambled gracelessly to his other siblings and moved to curl against his sister's back with a grin as he played with her hair. Much softer than Dad's! And longer than his own. He burbled some sort of nonsense to her and finally seemed to be slowly down as his energy waned a bit. "S-o-TO!" he declared brightly, bright eyes dancing with merriment as he beamed over at his mother.
Thabara The pale girl poked at the softness once more, before - more confident now that her brother was holding her - she finally let go of her mother's dress. Both hands free now, she rose them to her own face, exploring its features and trying to figure out what part of it she had touched. After a little while her tiny hands came to rest on her cheeks. Soft. Hm, that must have been it? She pursed her lips to a thoughtful pout, not entirely sure.Nergal frowned a little, expression puzzled. "Salvation?" he asked, not entirely sure if he had recalled the meaning correctly.The little goddess cooed happily, feeling much more comfortable now that both brothers were back at her side. She didn't like being alone. "Soto~!" She parroted, trying her tongue on that new word.
Zero Dream "Hm-n." Echo nodded, head tilting to the side so she could look at him. "What do you think ? I like it. And I think they like it too, come to think of it." Her features grew into a smile that was getting rarer as days went by - as the situation around them worsened."So-to ?" Lament babbled along with his siblings, an adorable grin on his face. That was a pretty word !
Thabara "Sotosotosotosoto-to-to..to..to.." She sort of stumbled over the syllables, voice trailing off. Blinking a few times with a puzzled expression, she opened her mouth to feel for the tongue."I do not think we have a choice left in that matter," Nergal mused with a wry smile. "It is a good name." One that bore hope for better times.
Reyna Crelos Content for the time being, little Sotiris lounged lazily over against his sister and mother. He had a name! And a good name at that. Hearing his siblings say it was also quite nice. "Sis! Now!" he announced as he pointed towards her and glanced up at his mother with wide eyes. It was her turn! She needed one too. And his brother as well, but it was quite obviously her turn.
Zero Dream Well, it was her turn indeed, wasn't it ? Echo was more than happy to follow her son's guidance on the matter, returning to the books. She flipped the pages, a vague frown on her face. No, no no no, that wouldn't work, neither would this ! Perhaps she was being over-critical - but that was her daughter, of course, and while Sotiris' name had pretty much snapped into place as soon as she's read it, nothing seemed to work for her little girl. She put the book she was holding at the opposite side than the one the children where gathered, and reached for another on top of the pile. This went on for quite awhile and a few books, and anything subjected in the meanwhile was shot down quite promptly, the goddess seemingly oblivious of how big of a brat she was being right now. But she had to find the right one.... !!!!
At one point, when the pile of book read was taller than the one left unread, she apparently found it. Well, something close, but... maybe... "What about... Lacrymosa ?" She glanced, edger to see if her choice passed "inspection".
Thabara Thankfully this strange new world offered plenty of distractions for the children to not get bored anytime soon. Nergal picked up one of the books Echo had set aside, flipping through the pages while keeping an occasional eye on what his offspring was up to. Luckily enough they seemed content to keep each other occupied, as he had no idea whatsoever of games, or where to find toys for them.
After a while he stacked the books back onto their pile, apparently satisfied, while Echo was still taking her sweet time. Well, there was nothing wrong with taking this matter seriously..
By the time Echo looked up to make her suggestion, Nergal had their daughter sitting on his lap, keeping himself occupied with her strangely lusterless hair.The little girl wiggled every now and then, but mostly managed to sit still. Only... daddy's hands were so cold! "La-ci.." She turned her head towards where her mother's voice had originated from, browns furrowing as she focused on pronouncing that complicated word. "Mos-mos?"
Reyna Crelos Sotiris actually had the presence of mind to laugh at his sister's disjointed pronunciation of the proposed name, but quickly stifled his giggling to avoid hurting her feelings. He reached over and poked at his brother with one hand before snuggling closer to the warmth of his mother. "Crys?" he queried as he attempted to try out the syllables himself.
Zero Dream Heheheh... that was funny~ "Mos-mos." He chirped, pressing noses with her with what was probably an overdose of cute, one hand reaching to catch his brother's. "Crys !"
Apparently the name had passed inspection indeed.When Sotiris came close enough, Echo scooped him up in a loose hold in her lap, knowing full well he probably would not remain there long.
Thabara "Cwys!" the girl chirped, throwing her arms into the air. Obviously the name had been accepted, even if she did seem to have trouble pronouncing the "r". "Cwys-mos~!"Nergal gave his lover a fond smile. 'Tearful'. "A name well chosen. A good thing that, despite its meaning and her domain, this doesn't seem to be her nature." He finished off his daughters braid, and - giving her a small pat on her head - released her from his lap, holding his hand out to his youngest. "Would you like a braid too," he asked gently, "Akakios?"
Reyna Crelos A look of mischief fluttered across Sotiris' face as he contemplated kicking his brother. Why? It hardly seemed to matter. Reason mattered not when terrorizing younger brothers. He thought better of it when he suddenly found himself in his mother's arms entirely. He smiled and wiggled closer and through one arm haphazardly about her shoulders, before glancing up to peer intently at her face. "Mama's pret'y," he informed her as he reached to touch her cheeks and gaze at her vivid eyes. His attention was diverted when dad said his little brother's name. Kios? Well. Fine. He supposed that one was okay. He almost thought to pout when he noticed that both his siblings were (or were otherwise about to) have braids and his hair was not quite long enough for such things. Oh well. He had Mom's lap to himself, they did not. So there.
Zero Dream Apparently Kios did not seem to notice the lack of enthusiasm about his own name, or the fact that he been seconds away from being on the receiving end of a kick - he crawled in his father's lap with the biggest happy grin his little face could summon forth.
That seemed like answer enough to anything. Of course he wanted to be pretty too !As for Echo, she apparently was in complete awe over her firstborn, gently pushing some strand of vivid hair to kiss his forehead. "Why, thank you." Soto's eyes where very interesting, now that she could see them from this close. Little flickering flames.... quite literally. She could probably have looked at them for hours, not that the little boy would stay still that long, of course. Her fingers went to comb through his hairs lovingly.
Thabara The newly named Lacrymosa fingered her braid, a small frown forming on her pale blue face. She didn't like it, she decided, too tight. She liked her hair better all over the place and flowing freely, the way it had been before. "No!" she exclaimed, small hands fingering the woven hair almost frantically, until she managed to undo the braid. "No, no, no, NO." She shook her head, sending her hair flying wild, and then ruffled through it for good measure.
There, that was better.
Could she have seen her father's face, she would have laughed, because - for a moment - Nergal really looked crestfallen. "Kios~?" she piped.Nergal sighed, with a slightly sheepish look upon his face. At the very least his youngest seemed to approve of both, name and braiding.
Reyna Crelos Soto, if he could, likely would have purred at having his hair petted. His contentment was shattered at his little sister's sudden panic and he ambled away from his mother's arms as quickly as he could to tend to her. "Siii~iiss," he murmured sweetly as he looped an arm about her shoulders and nuzzled over against her wild hair.
Zero Dream Her daughter's sudden outburst startled Echo, but when she noticed nothing was really wrong, the goddess calmed down a bit - and again almost burst out laughing at the look on her lover's face. Well, at least he had Kios to focus any braiding urge he may have, it seemed.As for him, the little boy seemed conflicted. Braid ? Sis ? Stay put and be prettied up, or go assist his sister ?
.... DILEMMA.
Eventually, it seemed like he made his mine, gave his father the cutest smile to ever exist as if to ask him to wait just a second, and scrambled over, sitting by and doing his best to untangle the knots that had formed as Crys had released her hair from the braid. There was an obvious difficulty and lack of motor skills, but the boy was careful not to pull - even if it meant it would take a little longer.
...And, really, sis looked prettier with her hairs loose. "Sis pretty !"
Reyna Crelos "Like Mama," Sotiris nodded in agreement to cement that fact. He too began helping to untagle Crys' hair. He wanted to help too! And no way was he going to be upstaged by his baby brother.
Thabara Young Grief had been angry, upset rather than panicking, really. Now she was quietly cooing with delight, pleasantly surprised at the immediate attention her tantrum had gained her. Mom and dad didn't seem to care much - especially dad, as he had put her hair into that awful shape - but her brothers, they would be always there for her.
"Wus pwetty?" she inquired. It must be something good, she thought, because mom was like that. To be like mom, in any way, had to be a good thing.Nergal sighed, but the smile Akakios had given him, and watching the two brothers fussing over their sister's wellbeing almost made him melt. Those three would be a handful, he was certain, but it was sweet to know they cared for each other like that.
Zero Dream "Ya !" Agreeing with Soto's agreement, he then turned thoughtful. "Pretty is.... is..." Oh, this was hard to explain, expecially with a limited vocabulary. Anything relating to sight would be beyond her understanding, he at least realized that much. "Pretty is... lookin good ! Crys is pretty like mama."Echo did not interfere, mostly curious to see what explanation her eldest would have on this rather delicate matter. As handful as they would be, all three had her completely charmed - and such was obvious.
Reyna Crelos "Pretty like Mama," Sotiris said again before reaching out to touch his sister's face and hair. "Pretty," he insisted before dragging his sister's hands up to her own face. "Sis's pretty!" He wrapped his arms tightly about her and gingerly scoot the both of them closer to their mother. He grabbed up her hands again so she could feel and touch her mother's face. "See! Is pretty!"
Thabara  Curiously her little hands trailed across her mother's face, gingerly touching upon the brows, the forehead, the hairline.. The pointy ears, then back to the cheeks, the closed eyelids, the nose, the lips, the chin.. Then they were raised to her own face once more, to compare. They were much the same, she found, only that her mother's was warmer, and everything was bigger.
"Pretty~!" she chirped, a wide smile appearing on her face. "Pretty. Like mom!" Arms spread wide, she gave her mommy a hug, snuggling against her, and blinking with confusion when a sleepy yawn escaped her lips.
Zero Dream And Echo remained perfectly still, letting her daughter examine as she wished. When she had finished, she hugged her back and kissed her little forehead. "Yes, my dear. You are very pretty. Probably more pretty than I am, even."
It seemed like the children's energy was waning a bit.With everything taken care of, there was only one thing left to do, really - Kios crawled back into daddy's lap. There was a braid to be made, after all, and daddy better not think he had forgotten about that !
Reyna Crelos Soto moved once more to curl against his mother's side, eyelids drooping as the sudden burst of energy he had waned and left him swiftly crashing. He idly watched his brother get his hair braided with a bit of envy, but soon enough he was fast asleep and snoring softly.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 5:55 am
Nothing But Trouble
Solo entry by me regarding Soto's outlook on the world as a whole.Sotiris, or Soto as he preferred (it sounded better AND was easier to pronounce) was a talented young boy -- and he knew it. His parents and their respective aoidei were also swiftly coming to this realization. To their dismay, his primary skill seemed to be getting into trouble. This sort of trouble was something that could more or less be expected of a young boy regardless of his parentage, but it still had to be said that Soto was indeed talented.
Especially when it came to being sneaky. Rhyme, reason, and all forms of logic therein hardly seemed to apply to him. If it was out of reach, he would find a way to get to it. If it was something he should not have in his possession, he had it (or otherwise had it hidden somewhere). If it was nigh unbreakable, he'd find a way to break it. And he did it all with a smile.
He was most certainly a child of the Age of Destruction.
The world could end, but was he worried? Not particularly. His lack of conscientiousness about the matter was mostly due in part to his own naivety. The rest was his matter-of-fact yet utterly carefree attitude towards life as a whole. He was a child. He wanted to play. So he played. Little else seemed to matter until he was scolded (usually by his father) or one of his siblings had become upset or otherwise inconsolable.
Then what mattered most was that he find a way to get himself out of trouble with his foreboding, looming father (which he actually thought was quite impressive and attempted to imitate whenever the opportunity presented itself) and that he find a way to cheer his siblings up, whichever the case may be. He loved them. Truly.
And, yes, his father, too. Even though he wanted to scream at him sometimes.
His mother, no, he never wanted to yell at her, as delicate and sweet as she was. He could listen to her speak all day long, even if it was to scold him for the chaos he wrought.
His brother he didn't want to scream at. Mostly he wanted to kick him. It all depended upon the situation. He was helpful, though. He made for an excellent cohort, and with his sweet, innocent face a perfect decoy.
His sister was precious to him beyond all reason. How could she not be? Crys was Crys, and thus was to be protected and loved for no other reason at all.
As for everyone else, he was still contemplating his feelings as they were still developing. He had not yet truly gotten to know anyone or anything outside of his close circle of immediate family members. He wanted to, though.
Which is why he was perfecting his skills at escaping those silly aoidei. Pfft. Really? They thought that they could keep up with him?
He smirked at that thought. He'd show them.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 5:58 am
A Puppy!
Group RP with Zero, Thabara, & Reyna. Little Soto skitters off and finds what he believes to be a "puppy."Zero Dream After so many months of being trapped and doing nothing but surviving against all odds and all sorts of demons out for her, it was odd to be seeing the open sky once more. Through it was more gray than the off-blue of her memories, and, just like everything down there, everything was crumbling and falling apart. It was as she had thought - something had happened - something on a scale big enough to affect multiple worlds.
But what ?
She'd spent the days since her rather impromptu escape (worlds crashing over each other, talk about chaos - she was now convinced one of those deities had a pretty big tooth against her, well, one other than the obvious) padding along, avoiding the demons who would have well liked to eat her for lunch (nothing new at this point), and looking for one specific place - one specific person. She had promised, after all.
Once she found a large building surrounded by lava, but most importantly still standing in one piece unlike everything else, she was pretty sure she was on the right track. And so, she padded inside.
The shapeshifter had not worn her humanoid form ever since that day - the day where everything broke. It just felt... akward, off, and all matters of wrong. Instead, it was a large canine-like beast that stepped in calmly from the front door, trailed by faint shadow wisps, her black and gray fur covered in ash, which she promptly shook off. Around her neck was a golden ring, held by black cord, and there where various bandaged wounds on her form. Shima cocked her head to the side, glancing - there was a kitchen there... Those gods would not terribly mind if she helped herself just a tiny bit, wouldn't she ? Well, if they did, they ought to lock their front door better.
With that in mind, she padded her way further inside.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris had escaped the care of both his parents and their aoidei. His siblings would surely keep them distracted while he explored. He tiptoed gingerly along, eyeing each door and archway he passed curiously before halting as a large creature passed by. He blinked and was utterly awestruck by it's enormous size.
Without really giving much thought as to the potential dangers of following after such a beast, he did just that. He paused briefly near the corner of the kitchen where the massive beast was headed and peeked over at her, bright eyes glowing with curiosity.
Zero Dream There wasn't much food remaining, of course - others had seen to it before she did. What hadn't been taken smelled just a bit off, but beggars couldn't be choosers, expecially at a time like this - one slice of hard, stale bread found its way in her maw and was crushed into pieces before she realized she was being watched, and glanced in the boy's direction.
....Well, uh. Seemed like a god indeed, but... a tiny, itsy bitsy god. Who smelled just a slightest bit like him.
A little pup, then.
She turned around fully and walked in his direction, sniffing at the boy's chin, tail wagging lightly, and overall seeming much more like a curious puppy than an huge shadow-beast-thing.
Reyna Crelos The little godling's eyes went wide when she spotted him, but he did not flee. He smiled when she moved towards him and giggled at her snuffing at his face. His own tail wagged happily and he reached up to pet her face and whatever else he could reach. "Puppy!" he declared brightly with a quiet giggle as he squirmed to try and cuddle up to her as best he could.
Zero Dream Oh, god lord. Whatever and whoever's this was, he was adorable, and melted quickly through Shima's defenses due to sheer cuteness. She sat in front of him and licked at his face, tail kicking up some ash behind her. If there had been anyone else present, she would probably be deeply embarassed, but, hey, if it was only the pup...
She peered off at the side, to the other room. Ohhh, couches ! Couches that still where in one piece ! Oh, heck, if she couldn't eat she would, at the very least, go lie down right over THERE ! Oh, it looked so confortable...
Shima gave a wuff of warning to the pup before she bolted up, expecting very well that he would follow - pups where, by nature, curious.
Reyna Crelos As if on cue, he skittered after and skid to a wobbling stop to tumble into one of the couches. He giggled happily as he flailed about and crawled up upon the piece of furniture with an excited bounce. He turned to peek over at her, uncaring of the fact that his feet and hands were now mostly coated in ash as he pat with one little hand on one of the cushions. "Come. Sit?" he offered, clearly quite happy to have found her company.
Zero Dream A rather energetic little pup, she was now realizing - not that there was anything bad about that. It was good to have interaction with something that wasn't out to kill her, eat her, or both, really.
She leaped on the cushion, shifting to shrink a bit so the two of them would fit confortably before flopping down, belly up. Apparently this puppy wanted pettings.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris giggled, which quite truly belied his innocence, as not but a moment later, he pounced. He growled (at least as best he could) the way a beast ought to and gnawed at one ear before tumbling off the couch entirely. He laughed and skittered back up onto the couch to rub at her belly with a wide, happy grin.
"Puppy!" he declared again. "Soto," he informed her, pointing at his nose before poking at hers. "Name?"
Zero Dream The pounce hadn't surprised her - she'd seen the light of mischief in those little flame eyes of his, and his bottom waggling back and forth seconds before he struck, so she kept herself limp and watched him bounce about with obvious amusement. He needed some work in the growling department - probably due to being so tiny - but she didn't expecially care to demonstrate at the moment - expecially now that she was finally getting some bellyrubs !
She licked at the finger that poked at her wet nose, pondering for a moment. Communicating with a maw was not easy, but she honestly did not care to shift around at the moment - right now she just wanted to be lazy and watch the pup about since no one seemed to be.
Reyna Crelos "Shiiii~iiiiiMA!" the little godling declared as he threw his arms up in the air before letting himself fall forward to hug her tightly. He had found himself a puppy. His father, mother, and whomever else might think to wrench him from her at that moment would likely have hell to deal with, and not in the form of the hound that he was currently petting and loving upon. Oh no. He would pitch a fit like none other, that was to be absolutely certain.
Regardless, at that moment he was perfectly content. He fell quiet for a moment as he lounged lazily atop her before quitely fingering the golden ring that dangled from the cord about her neck. Shiny!
Zero Dream And the "puppy" did not seem to mind the deathgrip the child had on her one wit. It was probably an hilarious little scene - the big, scary beast with an happy child having chosen her as a play park. Her tail wagged back and forth happily as she took in the surroundings - this was definitively where the gods dwelled, for certain - for everything to still stand as if nothing was going on like that... There was a certain safety to be found with her current location, in the sense that the building wouldn't crumble on her. It would probably become much less safe if the residents where to know what she had helped unleash on one of their own, all the regret of the world backing her or not. And for that reason, she remained at the very least a tiny bit alert.
Had he actually told anyone ? About her, about... anything, really ? Probably not the pup, of course. She let out a lazy sigh and let the godling poke at the ring all he wished - as long as it remained around her neck until she could return it, and in one piece, there would be no harm.
Thabara "Sotiris?!" Nergal stood in the middle of the hallway, arms crossed in front of his chest, one bare foot tapping on the ground impatiently. After a few seconds of waiting in vain for a reply, Underworld gave an exasperated sigh. Where had his firstborn wandered off to this time?
One moment the boy had been quietly (Hah! That alone already should have aroused his suspicions he was up to something..) with his siblings, and the next he had been gone. Again.
Eyes narrowing with discontent, he looked down the hallway. At least very much doubted the little ones had enough power or focus to open one of the Doors to Another Place, which was a good thing. The idea that he might be forced to knock on a good dozen gods' doors and impose on the inhabitants to inquire about his eldest's whereabouts was troublesome enough already.
He glanced back over his shoulder, giving the stairs a thoughtful look. He'd check the lower floor first. Within these walls, no one would dare hurt a little godling - at the very least he hoped so - but if that child somehow managed to slip outside.. Demons knew no shame nor rules nor boundaries - he had experienced that first-handedly.
His concerns dissipated halfway down the stairs, when he heard his son's excited giggling, only to promptly flare up anew as his overactive fatherly imagination provided him with the mental image of Sotiris climbing atop the Chrysalis. Nonsense.
Nonetheless, he pretty much took the rest of the stairs in rush, jumping several of the steps, only to stop dead in his tracks upon the scene presented to him.
He wasn't entirely sure what he had been expecting to see, but certainly not his son hugging a large, beast-like thing. Though, come to think of it, he had been quite taken by Cerberus as well. In any way, the beast seemed friendly enough. Perhaps it was something about wagging tai--
Nergal interrupted that train of thoughts. First and foremost, that was just plain silly, and secondly - there was something awfully familiar about the beast. And thirdly, he was supposed to be angry, wasn't he now?
"Sotiris," he snapped, in a tone which clearly meant trouble for the little godling.
Zero Dream And so, she had been right. Not that she had really doubted it - the scent was unmistakable - but yet she still managed to be startled when Underworld came in. After all, she had no idea how he would react to her. At the very least, he looked more.... more lucid now then back down there, obviously.
The shapeshifter kept her head low in respect, golden ring standing out like a sore thumb against her chest fur.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris went still at the sound of his father's angry voice, and he pouted. His fun was quite clearly about to be ruined. His expression darkened further and with disgruntled 'hmph!' he clung tighter to the beast. He found her and was his! That's all there was to it!
"Found puppy!" he declared in an effort to cement his claim as he nuzzled over against her fur, "Is my Shima!"
Thabara Shima. Nergal's expression froze, that simple two-syllable name abruptly having opened up a whole box of maddening and terrifying memories he had managed to keep a tight lid on ever since his return. Had his skin not been the color of bleached bone anyway, he would have paled significantly - but even so it seemed waxen, his gray eyes losing their luster and seeming dull and unfocused for a moment until he managed to regain his composure. This isn't over yet.
"Shima," he said, his voice strained, and he sat down on the very edge of the couch, attempting to do this as calm and composed as possible. Truth was, right now, his legs simply refused to carry him. "I see you made it." His gaze dropped to the golden round dangling from the shape-shifter's neck. "And you obviously kept your promise, for a second time."
She had offered him the ring before, he remembered hazily, back when he--
"I must apologize," the visibly rattled deity added. "It never was my intent to escape without you. I just.. I was not able to think clearly, and I.." He was rambling, Nergal realized, so he simply shut his mouth.
Zero Dream ....Was she smiling ? If that had been possible for a wolfish face, she probably would have. She used the child's grip on the ring to slide the cord over her head, then gently coaxed it from his tiny hand and dropped the whole in Nergal's lap. The ring had, at long last, returned to it's rightful owner.
She could tell, from his reaction, that he was still rattled - no matter how hard he tried to hide it, and, wordlessly, she turned, mindful of the child as she laid down, head flopping on the couch, ears drooped backward ever so slightly, and she waited. For what, she wasn't so sure, but she waited, none the less. It had never been her intention to cause him harm, expecially, and she had not been the one to inflict most of it - but that fact remained that, without her, he would not have been tricked, then trapped.
It was her fault. The Shima of old would have decided she'd suffered enough and ran off right about now - or hell, she probably wouldn't have bothered to return the ring to begin with. But now... now it was all different.
And that was why she remained perfectly still, and waited. If Underworld wanted revenge, she could give it to him. It wasn't like she knew what the hell she could do from here, anyway.
Thabara The pale hand which closed around the ring was trembling ever so slightly, and he tried hiding it by clenching it into a fist. He wasn't sure what to do with it. Could he still present it to Echo, tainted as it was?
After what seemed like forever, his other hand rose to slightly ruffle the beast-woman's fur. "You are welcome to stay," he said, "I hold no grudges. Come to think of it.." He hesitated. Could he bear seeing her around every day, a constant reminder of what he had gone through? "This child requires a guardian, one that can keep up with its speed and.. sneakiness."
Reyna Crelos "Puppypuppypupppppyyy~!" Sotiris gurgled happily as he squirmed happily. Dad wasn't taking her away! He fairly radiated happy. He grinned and reached to kiss the tip of her nose in sweet, affectionate manner before settling himself again. He so won.
Zero Dream Clearly, Shima had been about to argue - well, at least do the canine equivalent of it, after all it was obvious he was rather unconformable with the idea. Well, that seemed to have been the plan, up until Soto happened. One ear comically flopped to the side in reaction to the doggie-kiss and she settled back, apparently very ready to blame the cute.
Thabara Nergal nodded. That was decided then, not like he'd had much of a choice. "Just.. do not tell Echo about.. that, is that understood? I will handle it, when the time is right."
"As for you, Sotiris--" He snatched up his son, holding him so that he had little choice but to face his father. "Do not run off alone without telling anyone, ever. Your mother and siblings were very worried about you."
Reyna Crelos Sotiris' eyes went wide with surprise as he suddenly went from being utterly content with the world and comfortable to hefted up by his father's chillingly cold hands. He gazed at his father levelly and scowled. His scowl, however, was hardly as impressive as his father's and at best came off as a disgruntled pout.
He felt a twinge of guilt that his mother worried, and a twinge more that his siblings had fretted. Otherwise, that was about it. He nodded once to at least affirm that he had heard his father and averted his gaze away from his father's with a bit of a huff. He needed more practice at this whole... being sneaky business.
Dad was so not any fun. He almost smiled as a thought struck him, but thought better of it. Clearly, his dad also needed a puppy. It was per chance Nergal's good fortune that his darling son hadn't the first idea of where to find one. His downfall would ultimately be the child's stubborn, willfulness and sheer determination.
"Sorry," he murmured sweetly before leaning forward into his arms, squirming and wiggling until he was close enough to hug him about the neck. He was going to make Dad smile. Or find him a puppy. Or both.
He was on a mission.
Zero Dream There was a nod in answer to that, and Shima moved to stand as the pup was taken off her, watching the unfolding scene with barely repressed amusement. She had no idea if those two realized their expressions almost mirrored, but there was one thing for certain - it was damn amusing. And.... sibilingS, hm ? How many pups where there ?
And when she's initially entered the scene, it seemed those two where tip-toeing around each other like crazy, and now there where... children. Well, they sure had made up for the lost time, havn't they ?
Thabara "Well, just do not do it again." Nergal sighed and patted his son on the back. If he had any hopes the child would be open to reason, he would have tried telling him of the dangers that lurked outside, things that were too much for a tiny godling such as him - Guardian or no - to handle.
"Let us return," he said, "so that your mother knows you are safe and sound. And certainly you want to tell your siblings of your puppy, do you not?" He would have to explain to them somehow why he got a puppy and they did not, he realized with growing discomfort. Not to mention that Echo likely wouldn't be pleased that her eldest had actually managed to somehow get a 'reward' out of his running off.
He opened his hand, glancing over his son's shoulder at the golden round on his palm. He had a lot of explaining to do, actually. Perhaps it was time..
"Are you content to stay down here?" he asked Shima.
Zero Dream The shapeshifter nodded as an answer. She could stay here and wait until he told her to come up, or something. She was still hungry, after all...
Reyna Crelos Sotiris nodded solemnly. Yes, yes, he needed to go back, and he definitely needed to tell his siblings about the beast he found. He squirmed in his father's arms until he had positioned himself in such a way that he could rest his chin atop his shoulder. He smiled and waved to Shima.
"Bye bye, puppy! See later!" he murmured quietly as he allowed his father to carry him off.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:01 am
I Has One. You Don't.
Soto brags about his so-called puppy.Reyna Crelos Soto resisted the urge to kick and fight his father as he was carried away by his father to where his brother and sister were waiting. Perhaps the only thing that helped to soothe his general restlessness when it came to such things was the fact that he had a fantastic story to tell them. He especially could not wait to tell his Sis. He did so enjoy telling her things, because she listened so very well and took him seriously. He respected that. Kios was Kios, and thus just a baby in his mind's eye, but he was still his brother. Even if he was a baby. Once near enough to where they currently resided, the little godling resumed his kicking, flailing, and his newest trick, biting as he demanded in a fit to be let down so that he could skitter quickly to where his siblings were. He had things to do and Very Important things to tell them! "Waaa~aaaaaaaannnnnnt dooooo~ooooowwwnnnn...!!"
Thabara He bit?! Nergal flinched, albeit more out of surprise than pain - the youngling's teeth were by far not enough to do any real damage. With an internal sigh he set his son down to the floor.
"You know," he said sternly, "you could have simply asked, instead of.." He shook his head. It was obvious the energetic child wasn't paying much - if any at all - attention to his words anyway. "Do not bite me ever again," he finished instead, "is that understood?"
He was still having a good hold on the squirming boy, and it was obvious he would not be free to go unless Nergal got at least some form of acknowledgment of his words. He didn't even expect as much as an apology.
Reyna Crelos "...'kay," Sotiris replied calmly, or at least as calmly as he possibly could. So excited, so excited! He could hardly contain himself. The fact that his father managed to keep hold of him and force him still for even a moment was a remarkable feat. "Can go now?"
Thabara "Yes, you can go now," the pale god sighed, and let go of the wiggling bundle of excitement. No doubt he'd hold his promise by scratching him the next time, or kicking. If he remembered about it at all. Nergal had his doubts.
I should probably be thankful that out of the three, only one turned out like this. It could have come worse.
Zero Dream Echo had been busying herself reading one of the books she had found in the library - fairytales - to a rather wide-eyed and attentive public when her eldest dashed inside like the little green whirlwind he was.
"Sotiris." She sighed. "Where had you gone ? I was very worried, you know. You shouldn't wander off alone like that... Why not ask me next time so we can all go together ?" Really, she doubted he would listen, but she had to at least attempt.Kios had been laying on the floor, listening to the story until his older brother came in, which was when he moved to stand again. "'was it ?" He whispered. Really, he'd provided the escaping cover, he had to know ! "Soto find something ?"
Thabara Crys had been listening to the story enraptured, even though there were soooooooooooooooo many things in it she didn't understand. The book itself for example, to begin with. Her mother had allowed her to touch it, after she'd made her promise she'd be very, very careful. But it had turned out to be a boring thing, with a funny smell to it. Every 'page' was feeling exactly the same, and yet there were stories coming from it. How so?!"I picked him up in the throne hall," Nergal announced, realizing with a sinking feeling that he'd probably be made to explain just how it had come that Soto ended up being 'rewarded' for his escape. Not only to the boy's siblings, but to his lover as well.
Reyna Crelos "Was e'sploring!" he announced proudly as he burst into the room in a flurry of excitement. He looped an arm around his brother's shoulders and leaned in close to whisper. "Found a puppy. Name is Shima. Can keep, but is downstairs still." He smirked broadly, his own puppy tail swishing to and fro happily. He shot a thoughtful glance back towards his father before turning his attention back to Kios to whisper even quieter, "Dad does not like e'sploring." He bounded over towards his sister and mother and cuddled up next to Crys' side, quiet content with himself and the world at large.
Zero Dream Ohhhh, really really really ?!? That was so exciting that he barely remembered to keep it to whispers. "Puppy ?! Wassit look like ?!"
Maybe he ought to do this exploring thing, too. Maybe he would find a puppy too. Maybe one for Crys too, if he was lucky ! Kios was fairly confident that he could get away with it, in typical little kid fashion. Unfortunately for the world at large, he had already realized he had high chances to cute himself out of most punishment, with his angelic face and innocent gaze.
He followed Soto, but sat next to Echo instead, since there wasn't really enough place left to squeeze himself in between the wall and Soto. He was tiny, but not that tiny.
Silly brother was too big. He wanted to be closer to Crys, but Soto was there so it would be fine. But still.Echo, of course, could hear the boys in despite them probably thinking they where the top-notch of shealthy, but mostly pretended not to hear a thing, but the puzzled look she gave Nergal did, indeed, promise that explainations would be needed. Wouldn't rewarding the boy's sneaking only make him do it more ?
"Well, then, maybe we should all go exploring together next time, what do you think ?" She offered her eldest with a smile.
Thabara Crys latched onto her older brother immediately, contently starting to nibble on his arm or whichever part of his body she'd managed to get a hold of. "Puppy~y~y~?" she inquired curiously. She had no idea what a puppy was, except that they were supposed to have tails, just like big bro, because daddy had said so. However, excited as her brother was, it just had to be something special.Nergal sighed and sat down next to Echo. Her inquiring gaze, and the way she arched her brow, was more than enough to tell him that an explanation was indeed in order. "Said 'puppy' would be an.. acquaintance of mine. A shifter, preferring beast-like forms. She came here to--" He shook his head, fingers closing tighter around the golden round Shima had returned to him. "I will explain later. Not in the presence of the children."
Reyna Crelos Sotiris wiggled happily and snuggled over against Crys. "Yah. Is a puppy," he informed her with a grin. His gaze settled upon his parents for a moment, face nigh unreadable. He leaned in close to whisper against his sister's ear, voice so quiet and faint it was very likely that only she would hear. "Am to find one for Dad," he told her, "Think he needs one. Will be big surprise."
Thabara She blinked, and her mouth formed a quiet 'Ohhh'.
"Is secret, yes?" she whispered back, excited now.
Zero Dream The promise of future explanations seemed to be enough, as Echo simply nodded and began to absent-mindedly comb through Kios' curly hairs with her fingers. If she had overheard anything of Soto's super-secret plan, she wasn't reacting in any way to it, humming a bit to herself. With her wayward firstborn returned to her, she seemed much calmer now.
The worry hadn't been so much of the fact he had wandered off, it was the fact that it had been.... Well, Sotiris. Kios wouldn't dare leave the building probably, shy as he was, but Soto ? The green godling would probably do it if he ran out of things to explore, probably.
"Well, at any rate, it is getting pretty late for the little explorers, hmmm ?" Echo smiled, lifting Crys into her arms and taking Soto's hand into her own. Kios would follow, she was pretty sure - he did not sleep much, she had already noticed, but he definitively looked ready to doze off. "Bedtime for everyone. And that means you too, dear." She poked Soto's nose lightly. "No more escaping tonight, mommy has had enough worry for one day."
Reyna Crelos Soto glanced away with a pout after his mother had poked his nose. "Oookaaay," he lamented before attempting half-heartedly to stifle a yawn. His hand tightened in hers and he toddled off alongside his siblings, content for the time being to dream of exploring and finding puppies
Thabara Crys hadn't really been exploring anything, but she was content to be lifted up and carried to bed by her mom - she liked when she did that, and for some reason she seemed to get carried a lot more often than Soto or Kios anyway.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:06 am
Cookies Are Tasty
The little godling escapes yet again, and meets someone new. RP with LittleDream.Reyna Crelos Sotiris snickered under his breath as he darted around a corner just as one of his parents' aoidei bustled past, muttering and grumbling as they did so. Grounded? Forbidden to leave his shared quarters with his sister and brother? No, no no! Don't think soo~oooo!Besides. He had found himself his Puppy last time. Who knew what could come of his new adventure! His flame-lit eyes flared brighter for a moment in excitement as he darted down the corridor and then down the steps that led to where he had left off with his exploring last time. Before Dad ruined.He pouted a bit at that thought. Dad was no fun, but he wasn't about to let that stop him. He giggled happily as he skipped back towards the kitchen of the Pantheon.
LittleDream  Yumehayla was slowly walking through the corridor, finally getting a better glimpse of the Pantheon. It got a bit calmer after all that happened, even though the masses of demons were still around, and it wasn't very wise to go out without proper preparations. So this is how this place looked. It was certainly...majestic, you could say that. When he was inside the Pantheon for the first time, he didn't have much time to look around, and everything was spinning... So he's going to take his chance this time. At least that's what he thought. Because when taking a turn, he almost stepped on a kid. Who was green. And generally didn't seem much...human. Great.... So now these gods take over even little kids? That's sick.I...don't remember that one.... Somehow, Tista seemed confused... Oh well, we shall see..."...Hello... Sorry about that." He smiled to the boy.
Reyna Crelos " Heyhey! Careful!" Soto exclaimed before taking a step back. Silly person not watching what they were doing! He paused for a moment as he eyed Yumeh curiously. He definitely had not met him before, and definitely was not a puppy. He looked mildly dissappointed by that fact before curiosity won him over. He pointed to his nose with a smirk. " Am Soto. You?"
LittleDream Aw, how cute! The boy definetely wasn't afraid of strangers, that's for sure. And he didn't seem too happy with the meeting at the beginning, was he looking for someone else? "I am Yumehayla, Yumeh for short." He smiled to the kid. "And my name's Tista."Ofcourse the godling had to add something from himself.. "Are you looking for something?"
Reyna Crelos The little godling's head titled to the side, eyes going wide. " .... two voices? You TWO peoples? TWO?" he blurted out in a rush of excitement. How strange and interesting. " How so?" he demanded before he realized that Yumeh-voice had asked him a question. " Am e'sploring." And on a quest to find Dad a puppy too, but that was secret.
LittleDream Yumeh smiled wider at the cuteness. Isn't it just adorable as he gets excited? Hm...but why does he see it as weird? So he isn't a god, then? Yumeh was almost sure he was... He is. I can feel it.
Then how..?"Yes, two people.. in a way." He anwsered to the child. "Tista is a god who recently decided to live inside me.""...exploring, are you? You could say I'm doing the same thing."
Reyna Crelos Sotiris fell quiet as he peered over at the man with a look of suspicion. He crossed his arms over his bare chest and gazed over at Yumeh levelly. " Tista a god," he stated slowly as though he were trying out the words for himself, " Like Dad and Momma." He made a confused face as though the statement had left a strange taste in his mouth. " Lives IN-side you..?" he queried again, clearly puzzled by the very prospect. He had never heard of such a thing. So strange...He so couldn't wait to get back to his brother and sister and tell them all about this weird two-voice person.
LittleDream "You bet I am!" Tista nodded to the kid, as Yumeh was smiling. "As he said. Though I don't know if like your mother and father, I doubt I know them. I've arrived at this place just recently. And yes, he is inside me, and usually sits quiet since talking or moving around is a bit tiring for him. Unless he's having an outburst of curiousity."Yumeh opened his bag, and started searching inside it. He was almost always carrying it with him - you never know when you're going to need something. After a few moments of searching, he was victorious. With a happy grin he took out a decorative, metal box, ilustrated with pictures of its content. "So..." He started, while opening the box "Anyone here wants some cookies?"
Reyna Crelos The Yumeh-voice distracted him from his further pestering and otherwise demanding of answers to his questions. Curious, he watched and peeked carefully over at the shiny box. He looked mildly surprised by what was apparently an offer of sorts, but he hadn't an idea as to what a 'cookie' was. He skittered a little closer to get a better look at the box before he turned his gaze back upon Yumeh. " Whut'sa cookie?" he asked plainly, looking rather unimpressed. Perhaps more importantly, why would he possibly want one?
LittleDream Okay, that was a shock. Poor child apparently never tasted cookies before. "Poor, poor boy.." Yumeh shook his head. "You have no idea what you're missing."He took one of the cookies, and moved the box closer to Soto. "Here, take one and taste it." Ha said, and did the same with his own cookie.
Reyna Crelos While he did not quite believe he appreciated the sympathy to his ignorance, he did have an appreciation for things that were "shiny" and also "new." The cookies did not quite fit the shiny category but they were new. He picked one up and eyed it suspiciously before watching the Yumeh-voice eat his. He didn't especially require food, or at least hadn't so far. He supposed it would be okay to at least taste it. He bit off a hunk and chewed it rather mechanically before his flame-lit eyes went wide with shock, surprise, and yes, awe. Sotiris didn't know what to say. Words fled him. Hell, he hadn't enough words in his vocabularly to even declare how he felt about the cookie in general. It was utterly exquisite. Unable to properly voice this, he did the only thing he could do to express his feelings about the treat. After shoving the remains of the cookie fully into his mouth and swallowing happily, he yelled. He then proceeded to throw his hands up into the air before running about in a manner that could only be described as joyous, and perhaps even a little euphoric, still shouting nonsense all the while. He stopped in his flailing about and stood before Yumeh-voice with a solemn look on his face, tail still wriggling in excitement despite his effort to calm himself. " THANK YOU," he all but shouted. He would have tackled the man in a hug, but he didn't dare for fear of disturbing the magnificent confections within the tin box he held. Instead he folded his clasped his hands together in an effort to contain himself and keep them still. " Can have 'nother?" he asked as sweetly as possible in a fashion that he swiftly realized reminded him of his little brother. Hey, if it worked for him, why not?
LittleDream That was quite some reaction. Yumeh was observing the boy running around, and couldn't help but smiled widely. He certainly didn't expect such a reaction! He was going to take another cookie, but stopped in the middle of a move. He somehow expected that even this huge box of cookies will be too little for the boy. I have to look around if there are any baking ingredients around...When the boy finally calmed down a bit and came back, Yumeh patted his head and moved the box closer to him. "Go ahead, take more if you want to."
Reyna Crelos The child's eyes went impossibly wide. He could have more? He quickly snatched up another and shoved the whole thing in his mouth before all but allowing himself to collapse onto the floor, unmindful of the ash and dirt, as he chewed with a happy noise. " Thank you!" he chirped happily around a mouthful of cookie before rolling around on the floor which was less a reflection of his utter contentment and more because he could. He pulled himself back up to his feet in a sudden, surprisingly agile movement which made him giggle. Oh that was fun. Who knew he could do that? He was getting good at this walking and moving around thing, much to the dismay of his father for sure. " Can have 'nother?" he asked again, eyes wide and unblinking as he gazed up at Yumeh-voice expectantly. Soto realized, with a bit of dismay, that if he ate them all then there would be none left. But he really, really wanted to eat them. Perhaps worse, specifically for Yumeh, was that the kitchen, given the Age that they were in, was quite barren, covered in ash, and likely only held the remains of long since rotted foods. Thus, it left the unsuspecting host in a bit of a predicament -- especially when and if he ran out of cookies in which to give the little godling that stood before him.
LittleDream How amusing... The boy's reactions were so vivid and fun to watch! Who would've thought there are children here who never knew sweets.... He couldn't help but grin mischeviously at the thought of chocolate in his bag. And few more sweets. Though he definetely should be careful with those. He had no idea just when he'll be able to refill his collection. Maybe there's still some place in the town that wasn't affected as much... I saw one like this when I first arrived here, and there were people that seemed pretty healthy with the gods....
I'll have to look around a bit more..."Ofcourse!" He smiled to the boy again, moving the box in his way. "Glad you like them so much."
Reyna Crelos Sotiris hopped from foot to foot in a brief fit of excitement before snatching up another cookie. He brought it up to his mouth, but paused just prior to taking a bite. If he saved it, he could give Sis some, and Kios too. A little frown twitched at his lips as he contemplated this thought. Ohhh he did want it, but he had already had two of them, and his siblings none at all! That was very sad for the both of them. " ... can take to sis and bro?" he asked slowly, " Sis would like very much and Kios, too."
LittleDream Aaaw, he has siblings... Wonder if they are as cute as he is... "So, you have a brother and a sister? You're a very nice brother then, wanting to share with them." He smiled, and patted the boy on the head. "Ofcourse, go ahead and take some for them."He moved the box to him again, waiting for the child to stockpile a few.
Reyna Crelos The godling beamed. Yes. He was nice. It simply a pity his father didn't get to see him being 'nice' more often. He wiggled happily at the pettings and quickly reached for another cookie. And then two more. There. Four cookies would be plenty. One for each of them and then one to spare. What if Momma was hungry and needed one? Or what if he got hungry on his way back to his family's current quarters? Yes. Four would be good. " Thanks verray much, Yumeh-voice," he announced in a solemn, respectful manner before trotting off to further explore the recesses of the kitchen and to perhaps find a proper container to keep his cookies safe in.
LittleDream "It was a pleasure." The boy smiled, and once again patted Soto before finally closing the box and hiding it in his bag. "Have fun on your way back, Soto. And hope we'll meet again. I have a feeling I'll be having more cookies with me then."He really hoped he'll be able to meet the kid again soon. He was very lively, but still polite, and oh-so-awfully cute... Kinda reminded him of Umbra... ...damn.. I miss home...I'm sure they're all right, precious... Don't worry....
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:11 am
Container Quest
Soto hunts for something to put his cookies in!After abandoning his new found friend, Sotiris skittered his way into the kitchen. He held onto his cookies in one hand as tightly as he could without crushing them. He decided rather quickly that he needed something to store them in lest they get dirty and otherwise uneatable. He would be very, very sad if the cookies were ruined prior to his returning to his family so that he might share them.
Lucky for him that the two-voice person was nice enough to give him extra.
He wiggled excitedly at the very thought, tail wagging to and fro, as he rummaged one-handedly through cabinets. Most everything was ash, which annoyed him endlessly. Normally he did not mind the fluffy gray stuff (it was fun to roll in), but finding something intact that did not crumble to pieces when he reached for it was difficult!
He growled under his breath in irritation before poking his head into yet another cabinet. He gave an excited shout and danced foot to foot as it seemed he may have finally found something worth his trouble. There in amidst the ash, dust, and dirt on the bottom shelf was a pouch.
He picked it up and examined it carefully. It was rather dusty on the outside, but when he un-cinched it (which was quite awkward with one hand, but his teeth did the trick just fine) it was virtually spotless on the inside.
He hummed happily and dropped the cookies inside. “Yay!” he shouted, “Good for safe keeping.”
Tail wagging in contented pleasure, he made his way outside of the kitchen and decided to continue with his es’ploring now that he had succeeded in finding a container for his delectable confections. Idly he wondered if his mother could make cookies and if she would show him how.
He perked at the very prospect and hummed under his breath as he treaded down the expansive hallways of the Pantheon. He trailed his fingertips along the walls as he walked before pausing as he realized he had left a trail. He sucked in his lower lip and scowled at the wall. Great! Now someone would know he had been there.
Okay. Perhaps he was not so fond of the ash after all. He sighed heavily and continued his meandering.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:18 am
Cookies With Dragons
Sotiris meets another person while out and about. RP with Ithiltari.Reyna Crelos He had to be the happiest little godling in all of Creation. He had met someone new (and was still deciding about whether or not he liked said new person), had been introduced to the fantastic, sugary confection called 'cookies,' and had not yet been re-captured by either paternal unit. What a fantastic day! Soto wandered about the Pantheon aimlessly before he finally came before a rather impressive set a doors. He made a face, however, at the glass on the floor, and was careful to tiptoe past the lot of it given his bare feet. Just where was this? What was that giant thing, and where were the aoidei to clean up the awful stuff that was on the floor? He was pretty certain it was glass. He even knew for certain what glass was, if only because he had a talent for breaking it. It was funny watching his parents' servants skitter to clean it up just as fast as possible. He giggled at the thought and shoved piece of a cookie in his mouth, chewing thoughtfully as he glanced up at the broken windows where the glass had no doubt come from. Messy, messy, messy! But not my mess. This time.
Ithiltari "I wouldn't come any closer," Delmin remarked from where he was sitting. "Not without shoes, anyway," the man continued, eying the bright green child (it had to be a child, what with the method of eating) with curiosity and some suspicion. There were several questions and concerns that sprang immediately to mind, although he certainly didn't expect the other to know the answers. Who would let their kid wander around down here? the host groused internally, finally starting to address Jin Huang that way, instead of solely aloud. I'd certainly not know. A better question might be who the parents are, the dragon suggested, nothing about the other's appearance ringing any bells. Perhaps a deity? he offered, although Jin Huang did not sound entirely sure of the thought. "Did you need something?" the host asked after a moment, running one hand over his face. He wasn't good with children hardly true, so it would be best for everyone if he could just figure out who to return this one to. Unless, of course, it wasn't a child. That could be a definite possibility, and wouldn't even be the strangest thing Delmin had ever seen roaming the Pantheon.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris nodded solemnly at the remark about shoes. He had never worn a pair, but he had been cautioned about broken glass and its sharpness. Not to mention admonished against doing the actual breaking. He paused with a frown as a thought struck him. " Why broken? You break?" he asked with wide eyes. " Breaking things is baa~aad," he sing-songed in warning, " Gets you lots of trouuuble." He squirmed in place before carefully picking his way through and around the mess in what was no doubt a comical sight to behold. " Don't need things," he replied to Delmin's question, " Just es'ploring. Have cookies."
Ithiltari Well, at least he had some sense. Enough to recognize that the glass would hurt him, deity-ling or no. "Break it?" Delmin echoed back, startled. " I didn't break it. So I'm not going to get into trouble." Glancing around, the man shrugged. "Personally, I think it's His fault," he continued, gesturing at the Pod. "But it'd be hard to get Him in trouble for it." I'm sure he'll feel very bad about making such a mess, Jin Huang dryly commented. Delmin grinned at the remark, then watched wide-eyed as the child made his careful, barefoot, way over to him. "Exploring by yourself? The Pantheon? Do your parents know you're out? Not that it's really any of my business," the man continued under his breath. "At least you're well supplied."
Reyna Crelos Sotiris sputtered a bit indignantly. Tell his parents? Then how would he have possibly escaped the confines of their living area if he had simply announced that he was intent on going out to explore? Such a silly question. " No, did not tell them," he insisted hotly, " No fun with Dad. Mom does not es'plore much, but Dad no fun with es'ploring." He took another bite of his cookie, chewing thoughtfully as he eyed the man before him. " Who're'you?" he asked between bites before grabbing another cookie and holding it out to him in offering, " Cookie? They're gooo~ooood!"
Ithiltari "Alright, alright," Delmin said, holding his hands up in mock surrender. "Staying out til you get caught, huh?" he asked, looking sympathetic. That was part of how the game was played, after all. Of course, the children rarely realized that it was anything but a game to their worried parents. Which is why you should be responsible, and find out who his parents are. No doubt they will be looking for him shortly, and I'm the one who will have to interact with them later. Delmin merely rolled his eyes at the thought, taking the proffered cookie. "I'm Delmin," he answered, not introducing the still grumbling dragon in an effort to keep complications down. He took a small bite of the cookie while waiting to see if the boy would introduce himself, pleasantly surprised to find out that it tasted good.
Reyna Crelos The boy continued to munch on his own cookie with a contented look. " Am Sotiris," he told him with a firm nod and with a look that could only be described as smug. He did not think to offer further information on his identity or parentage, but he seemed more than happy to think up more questions to pepper Delmin with. " What's that?" he asked as he pointed over towards the Pod. He finished off his cookie and then looked inside his pouch. He only had a couple of cookies left, but those were for sharing with his siblings. He grumbled a bit as he carefully slid his feet across the floor to avoid the glass before moving to sit next to Delmin. He looked over at him expectantly, puppy-dog tail wagging happily, as he waited for his question to be answered.
Ithiltari "Nice to meet you," Delmin replied somewhat automatically, distracted for a moment as Jin Huang rumbled curiously about the child and his parents. "Um?" he continued, looking over his shoulder at the thing both he and the dragon had largely tried to ignore. "I'm not really sure. I've been told it's the remains of Harmodious, who apparently created the gods." And yet, it is both my Lord and not Him, Jin Huang mused, having previously attempted to sense if something recognizable as the Crown lingered within. "But it's also not Him. It's confusing," the mortal said with a long suffering sigh. He doubted he'd ever learn the truth of the matter, and frankly, right now that was fine by him.
Reyna Crelos " That is confuzzling," the child agreed with a sage nod. He eyed Delmin curiously once again. " You a god?" he asked tentatively. He circled around the man, tail still wagging as he inspected him before finally stopping to stand directly before him with his arms folded across his chest. " You don't look like one," he stated plainly. He looked more like a mortal to him, but his presence was interesting. It reminded him of his new friend who had two voices. Suddenly a thought struck him, and he blurted out, " Are you a two voice people?"
Ithiltari "Kind of?" Delmin answered, sounding bemused and bewildered by the question. "I mean, I'm not. A god, that is." He paused for a moment to gather his thoughts. "I guess two voice person is one way to put it." He'd stayed still while Sotiris circled him, aware that the child was examining him and not wanting to move and perhaps throw him off. "Did you want to talk to...the other voice?" he asked cautiously.
Reyna Crelos The boy blinked and peered up at Delmin curiously as he pondered this. Did he want to talk to this other voice? " Okay!" he announced in a tone that could only be described as a happy chirp. " Hello, hello other voice!" he laughed, clearly amused with himself.
Ithiltari Delmin's smile was almost entirely involuntary, as if Sotiris was simply that infectiously adorable. Jin Huang rumbled a bit of a chuckle, but it was purely internal and the amusement was not reflected in the features that soon presented themselves to the young god. Indeed, the expression that settled over the man's features was stern and somewhat impassive; it might remind Sotiris of his father, a bit. "And hello to you," the dragon said gravely, offering a brief bow of his head that held very little of Delmin's more relaxed motions. "My name is Jin Huang."
Reyna Crelos " Hallo," Sotiris repeated, eyes wide as he noted the sudden change in demeanor, and the tone did indeed remind him of his father. This new presence he felt quite clearly. It was quite strange a thing to come across in his mind's eye. He had simply been born into the world a god, and thus did not clearly understand the need for a host or even the act of having been reborn. " Jin Huang," he repeated, eyes alight with curiosity, " What are you? Am Guardian." He beamed up at the two voice person, tail wagging in reflection of his mood.
Ithiltari Jin Huang would have rather liked to know who Sotiris' father was; indeed, one of the Dragon's titles of old had been 'Underworld Dragon'. Which would no doubt be utterly fascinating to the young godling. Unfortunately, Jin Huang had no intention of letting that particular title past his lips. Not until he knew if he still had any right to claim it. "Guardian? Well met indeed," he said, a little surprised at how much he meant that. He would have a lot to discuss with Sotiris, no doubt. Once he grew up a little, of course. "I am the Dragon King Futs Lung, Treasurer to the Crown."Which wouldn't mean much to the godling, most like.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris' bright eyes went impossibly wide as he stared up at Jin. " You're a DRAGON?" he exclaimed before chortling in amusement. He circled around him carefully, still mindful of the glass, before returning to face him again. " You don't look like a dragon," he sing-songed playfully with a look that spoke of mischief. He paused for a brief moment, caught up in his own thoughts before voicing aloud, " What's a treasrurerr?"
Ithiltari Jin Huang looked very pleased with himself for a moment following Sotiris' gleeful outburst. This was, however, deflated rather quickly when the young god voiced a perfectly reasonable objection. "I haven't finished growing yet," he said gravely after a moment's thought. True enough, and he wasn't about to launch into an explanation of hosts and everything that entailed. Resting an elbow on one knee, and his chin in that hand, the dragon looked thoughtful. "I suppose you could say I'm in charge of treasure," he replied finally. Things that seemed simple enough for him to understand were much harder to explain than he'd anticipated. A brief flicker of regret passed over his face. "I am sorry, little one, but Delmin and I must be going." He stood and offered a small nod of his head to Sotiris. "Hopefully we'll meet again." With that, the dragon strode out the Pantheon to head home.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:19 am
In Dreams
A message is sent from Revei regarding the impending ritual.To say that Sotiris slept soundly was a bit of an understatement. He slept like a rock. Little could stir him from his sleep once he had finally worn himself out for the day and collapsed into the waiting arms of his mother to be hauled off to bed. It frustrated him to a degree that he ran out of energy at all, but little could help it so he chose not to complain – at least not too much.
Unlike so many nights prior, this night was different. It was not his sister’s clinging and squirming that bothered him or his brother’s restlessness. It was his dreams that plagued him. He had not ever dreamed before. Not that he could recall, and so far the experience seemed far less than pleasant to him.
The dream began with darkness. There was a strange man who had one feathered wing and one that was black and leathery. He saw flashes of fire and flames consuming everything. The earth crumbled and shook. He searched desperately for his parents and siblings, but were no where to be found.
Everything was consumed by an all encompassing darkness.
Somewhere amidst the strange imagery there was a shining light that beckoned. He followed it and was shown what appeared to be a board of some sort. Messages, none of which he could read much to his frustration, were tacked upon its surface.
Briefly he caught sight of something shiny. It glittered. Manacles. Someone, or something, whispered the name to him.
Again the world was burning. Destruction and chaos reigned. He was filled with loss as all consuming as the darkness he had witnessed prior.
He began to cry, and he very much wanted all the strange images to stop. He didn’t know what they were, and he did not understand them one bit.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:22 am
AWAKE
Soto awakes from his slumber to inform his father of what he has seen.Reyna Crelos Soto bolted upright in a cold sweat. He glanced around him to find himself in familiar surroundings. The sudden motion seemed to have not disturbed his siblings or mother. It took a great deal of reserve and control, more than he was aware he could muster, to refrain from waking them to inform them of the things he had seen in his sleep. He had not ever dreamed before. Not that he could recall, and not like that.
He carefully picked his way out of the bed, squirmed free of his sister's death grip and skittered away from where Kios had curled into his mother's arms. Surely his father was awake. Surely he would understand and know what it was he was supposed to do about the words and images that refused to leave his mind.
He padded quietly, or at least as quietly as he seemed capable, out of the room in search of Nergal. He felt as though he would burst if he didn't tell someone, and so once he was certain he was out of hearing range of his mother and siblings, he took off at a dead run. His movements were fueled by panic and a sense of urgency he could not berid himself of.
Thabara Nergal had, as so often, left their joint rooms once Echo seemed sound asleep. He did not sleep himself, but he'd made it a habit to remain at his belove-- No, his betrothed's - he corrected himself - side, until would fall asleep, her breath deep and regular. Then he would breathe a kiss upon her forehead, and leave - for the Library, most of the times.
It was strange how he rarely ever seemed to encounter anyone else in these quit corridors. The air was heavy with the scent of old leather, parchment, paper, papyrus and dust. A scent vaguely reminiscent of that of his own realm, yet different. The scent of Knowledge.
With a frown, he pulled yet another book from the shelf in front of him, bearing the title "Alraune", and adding it to his pile. That he was browsing the botanical section seemed strange enough, and truly, the books of Law he had glimpsed upon while passing by, tempted him much more, trying to lure him away from his task with their siren song of Justice.
But that.. was not what he had come for. The puzzle of how to re-asemble the seven-piece puzzle that was the Twin Crown's Consort was what occupied his mind first and foremost right now. That root, that mandragore - there must be a reason why a fragment of the soul had latched onto it.
Though.. latched onto it, or trying to be rebirthed through it, that was the question. It was still spooky just how much that root resembled a human being.
He heard the large doors open and close in the distance, but paid no heed to it. In these troublesome times, clearly, there would be others to seek the advice and wisdom of the Library.
Reyna Crelos Once Soto skittered into the library and found his father all sense of propriety and need for being quiet fled. "DAD!" he all but screeched before rushing forward to pounce upon him where he sat. "DAD!DAD!DAD!DAD!DAD!" he continued until he ran out of breath. He climbed upon the chair (and in turn his father) in relative silence as he sought to catch his breath. He then settled only to stare up at him with a wide-eyes and a face stricken by fear and near-crazed panic.
"BOARD," he insisted as he placed one hand on either side of Nergal's face.
Thabara There were indeed those who sought advice and wisdom in the endlessly meandering corridors of the Library - hissing and breathing annoyed utterings of "Shhhh!" at the boy daring to disrupt their beloved peace and quiet so respectlessly. Nergal only sighed inwardly as he laid his eyes upon that noisy green little figure rushing towards him, laying the book he'd just picked up aside just in time before the excited boy impacted against his legs, and then quickly scrambled up his pale figure and came to a rest on his lap.
Great. Now word would spread, and everyone would know who was the father of this little trouble maker and hold him responsible for whatever the boy did. He loved him anyway, as he did love all his children.
"Sotiris," Nergal said sternly, yet only with a small frown upon his features - he really was concerned rather than angry. It was obvious that something had upset the boy a great deal, scared him even. "What is it," he asked softly, resting his own hands against his son's tiny ones, "why are you not with your mother?"
Board? Was he referring to the notice board close to the Pantheon's entrance? But the little one could not even read yet..
Reyna Crelos Sotiris snarled at those that dared to insist he be quiet. This was important. They had no idea! They certainly hadn't seen the things he had. His hands moved to grip tightly to his father's shoulders as he squirmed until he was perfectly eye level with his father.
"Mom still sleeping," he murmured in a quiet, yet perfectly serious tone, "Did not wake. Saw board in sleep." He paused for a moment, brow furrowing in worried lines of confusion as he struggled to find the correct words to explain what it was he had seen. "All ... DARK. And.. bad. All bad. Glass broken. But I didn't break!"
He took in a shuddering breath as he once again resumed squirming and made a keening sort of noise in frustration. "Have to go see. Have to go," he told him as he relinquished his grip on his father and crawled out of the chair to tug at his hands. "Have to!" he said again, quite adamant.
Thabara There was a surprising amount of strenght in the boy's grip, strength of a kind one might not have suspected from him if ignorant of his domain.
So, he has been dreaming-- Nergal paused in his train of thoughts, hesitant to add 'only' to the end of it. The Dreaming had been a Domain somewhat close to his own. A place souls went to while their bodies rested - only not permanently. Sleep, Death's younger sibling.. The memory was hazy, and gone the very moment it had first appeared.
However, there was no doubt the little Guardian was taking his dream quite serious, and considering both Dream Lords had been reborn.. That, and then there was the fact that even though Soto might have noticed the board upon his "'splorings", he would have paid little attention to it, due to its messages being illegible scribblings to the boy's eye.
Something was up, something concerning the board. Underworld raised from his seat, taking his firstborn's hand. "Show me," he said, his tone solemn. Even if this should turn out to have been "only" a dream - his son was taking this seriously, and so would he.
Reyna Crelos In a flurry of panicked movement, Sotiris led his father out of the library and down hallways and through doors until finally they had reached where he knew the board was supposed to be. He tore his hands back through his hair wildly and jumped up in down out of sheer frustration.
"It says ... things!" he announced loudly as he flailed and pointed up at the board. He whined again and awkwardly clung to his father's side before skittering away to peer up at the board and then back again to his father. "Rrr... ree... ray... reevii..." he said, clearly struggling with his words, "Reeeeveeeeiiii SAID. In dream. Bad things. Very 'portant."
He frowned and stared up at the board with a hopeless look of frustration. "Need to keep safe. Need safe. Neeeed.." he trailed off as he sighed, clearly exasperated.
Thabara "Revei," Nergal pronounced the name correctly, without thinking. One of the Dreamlords indeed.. He had met neither of them in this life, but he remembered the name. A Gate of Ivory, and a Gate of Horn. He blinked, and that memory was gone in an instant. How frustrating.
He sighed, and bent down to scan the slips of paper on the noticeboard for news, starting with those on the very top. 'The Sigil of Music...' He froze, taking in a sharp breath before he continued to read. "You have done well," he murmured, picking up his son from the ground to hold him, even if it was mostly because his dashing to and fro kept distracting him from being able to read. "It says something important about your mother.."
Nothing about him, though, and nothing about the dead. The painful twinge he felt was all too familiar. His domain had never been viewed as being particularly important by his brethren.
Reyna Crelos Soto clung to his father in a desperate manner. "What's'it say?" he demanded, brow still creased with worry. "Words. Many words. Names...?" He hissed in frustration and squirmed in his fathers arms. "M'ncles. Keep shut. KEEP SHUT," he shouted, voice rising in volume. "Keepshut.Hold.Keep.Keep!HOLD!"
As if on cue, all surrounding doors, windows, and generally anything that acted as a door or physical gateway slammed closed. He sucked in his breath and then exhaled raggedly. As he relaxed, the doors released from their jambs as though nothing at all had happened. He pouted and with a very serious, nearly stern expression he peered at his father levelly.
"Do not like," he announced.
Thabara "Shhhh.." Nergal said softly, gently running his fingers through his firstborn's hair. Soto was an energetic child, true, but to see him so upset was a wholly different thing and it made him feel slightly uncertain as to how to deal with it.
He flinched - ever so slightly - when suddenly every single door, every single window obeyed the child's will and slammed shut. It was the first time ever he witnessed any of his children displaying their inherent power, and while it didn't last for long, he was quite certain that for the few seconds Soto managed to keep these doors and windows shut, no one would have been able to open them.
"It is a plan," he explained, trying to do so in simple terms, "to fix things. Because, right now, many things are broken. And, if we do not do anything, even more things will break." He turned into the direction of the Chrysalis, strangely beautiful girded in the glistening sheen of the manacles. "See that? In there is the one who made everything. Even your mom and dad. Someone.. hurt him, badly, and because of that, he is slowly turning into a monster which will destroy everything."
He brushed his son's forehead with his lips, a gentle kiss, and blessing. Echo, he felt, would not appreciate he was telling his son of such earnest things. He wasn't even sure if he would understand any of this. But he was the Guardian, and proved to be such quite effectively just moments ago, and so..
"What is written there, is a plan to help him, heal him. But it needs to be done before these shiny things, the manacles, break. Your mom.. She needs to sing a very special song for this. I will tell her, as soon as she wakes up, yes?"
Reyna Crelos The child relaxed into his father's arms and leaned his cheek against his shoulder. He did not even squirm or flail about as he usually did. Instead, he twined his fingers in his father's hair and listened to him speak with a half-lidded, drowsy look on his face.
"Plan is good?" he asked quietly. He knew of plans. He and his siblings often made plans but they were all Secret. "M'ncles. Shiny and good," he sighed before he lifted his head to again meet his father's gaze. "Can help fix?"
A sort of forlorn look washed across his face. He was not especially good at fixing things yet. He was good at making his sister smile. That was kind of liking fixing something in his mind's eye.
"Promise won't help break anything," he insisted with a solemn nod.
Thabara "Yes," Nergal confirmed, with a gentle smile upon his lips. "Plan is good. And you can help as well. It says here, everyone has to come. We will," he added thoughtfully, "of course have to ask your mother first if she will allow it." She might not, he realized, a little too late perhaps.
His smile deepened as the little one snuggled up against his shoulder. His excitement about the Dream Lord's message, and the short, but fierce outbreak of his powers seemed to have left him tired out. "Are you ready to go back to bed now?" he asked softly.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris squirmed for a moment if only to settle himself further into his father's arms as he buried his face against his neck. "Yes," he replied, voice slightly muffled. He wrapped his arms about Nergal's neck and with a pout announced, "Am sleepy. No more dreams. Do not like."
Thabara "Hm," Nergal murmured, "I do miss them of sorts.. But they will not bother you again, not tonight." And if they did, he'd have a word with Revei.
He glanced at the message board one last time, and then he turned, to slowly head back upstairs, back to where the rest of his family was still asleep.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:22 am
Ritual of Renaming
A ritual is held to rename Creation.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:30 am
Rebirth
Sotiris contemplates the end of Gehenna.In the days following his birth, Sotiris had developed a routine for each day that he followed. Sometimes his plans had to be modified (especially if Dad decided to keep him cooped up in the quarters they shared with his uncle Ankou), but generally he followed the same pattern each day.
He awoke. He pestered his siblings. He escaped the various aoidei. He did his very best to avoid his parents, and then he skittered outside of their rooms. He explored the Pantheon despite their warnings and simply enjoyed himself and until he was either caught and brought back, or he became bored and wandered back on his own.
That changed, and he quickly found that he did not especially mind the change. The world at large felt different. He and his siblings had determined that the change was definitely due in part to the lotus gathering and rebirth of Creation that had witnessed. What fun that had been!
The air felt more crisp and clear, rather than acrid. Everything seemed brighter. The Pantheon itself felt different.
That part upset him to a degree. He had just figured out where everything was and now it was all changed!
Perhaps that wasn’t so bad, really. He smirked quietly to himself. It did mean he had more exploring to do.
He made note to devise a plan of escape so that he could do just that. All in all the very prospect of having so many new things to see and do was incredibly exciting. He wondered if perhaps the new age that he had found himself in also meant there were new people to meet.
Sotiris wiggled excitedly and dived into the bed he shared with his siblings and mother. He squirmed and nosed about in the pillows and sheets before shouting in success as he found one particular pillow. He shoved his hand inside its casing and retrieved his pouch with a look of glee. Yes! It was still safe!
He skittered out of the bedroom and out the door before anyone could stop him. He needed to take a closer look at this new world he had found himself in.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:48 am
Answering the Summon
RP with Thabara, Ivynian, and Zero dream that briefly features the children.Thabara Nergal's wings drooped slightly, as always they were an indicator of his feelings much more reliable than his face. "Mh. I already thought as much," he admitted, pale fingers gently touching upon the vial, toying with the thin silver chain which kept the starry treasure to his neck. "Some things may change, others never do. And while … change may be something required, there has also always been the need for stability, something constant. Eternal. Besides, my domain has always been naught but a shadow, a distant echo of the Living." He gave a weak smile, one tinged with melancholy and regret. Still, there was the possibility of one lone star. The Day of the Dead, which he had promised to those living and dead alike, perhaps it could be used to hail that event. Maybe. He led the way, up the stairs, and down the hallway, keeping a deliberately slow pace. Towards a door that was clearly not his own, but his brother's, the Spirit Guide's. Perhaps a miracle would happen, the aodei having sensed his coming somehow, and magically managed to clean up the place in the blink of an eye just before they arrived at the threshold. The loud, eerie banshee-like wail that could he heard even out in the hallway and only be his daughter's, however, shattered his fragile hopes immediately. Ah well. He has fathered enough children of his own. I should imagine at least some of them were as troublesome as-- "Welcome," he mumbled, clearly embarrassed, and pushed open the door. He invited Harmodius inside with a small bow, quickly trying to scan the common room for the current situation at the same time. Somehow the idea of Harmodius accidentally tripping over one of the children's toys was horrifying much more right now, than any possible threat the Grigori might pose. "And I do apologize for the current … mess."He glanced at his daughter and Priya, both - child and aoide - seemingly frozen in their fight over a … piece of crayon? Not again... Priya was the one to let go of it first, bowing low immediately as soon as she caught glance of whom it was that her Lord had brought as a visitor. "My Lord ..." "Daddy," the young goddess seemed to have ceased her wailing for now, and instead held up the piece of red crayon that was hers to keep for now. It looked … decidedly soggy. "She says I can't keep this.""That is, because she keeps trying to eat them, Highness," Priya quickly interrupted. "Because you said they're different." The miniature goddess pouted, and quickly searched the ground with her free hand until she came across another piece of crayon – a blue one – which also bore obvious marks of having been chewed upon. "Well, they're not. They both taste awful just the same. Bleagh!" She stuck out her tongue with disgust, and then - a little belatedly – took notice that her father hadn't been the only one to arrive. "Who's that?" she inquired curiously, lids blinking over empty eye sockets.
Reyna Crelos His sister had proved enough distraction for Priya that Sotiris had long since snuck free of the confines of his family's current living quarters. It hadn't taken him long to figure her out upon her return to his father. Now if he could only find a way to escape the ghosts that his father sent after him his life would have been positively golden! He frowned. Dad had returned. And with some else. The pretty man who hatched from the funny egg that had been decorated with flowers. Who had his father said he was? Creation. He squinted in thought as he hovered around the edge of the entry way just behind where they both stood. Yes. It had to be Creation. He sighed. There would be no sneaking back in now. This was the part where he did usually get caught. Oh well! He had treasures to share with his sis, and she obviously was in need of them since Priya was being a jerkface as usual. " No be upset, Sis!" he declared, announcing his presence as he simply sidestepped his father before he could be grabbed, " Brought treasures." He paused for a moment and pinned Priya with an annoyed look that was strangely reminiscent of his father's own scowl. " No need icky crayons. Have better things for you, anyway."
Zero Dream Thankfully, Priya had at least one child that she ought not to worry too much about, at least in theory. Akakios had taken one curious nibble at one crayon, found it's taste to be nasty, and had not attempted the feat again since. There were much tastier things to eat, after all.
Though it would be wrong to think that the purple haired boy, who was calmly laying down on the floor doodling some nonsense that almost resembled letters, did not have his part with his elder brother's escape - if only because he was not surprised to see that he had been gone. "What Soto find ???" The young boy went up on his feet and padded toward his siblings, glancing up to Harmodius with wide, surprised eyes. Who was that again... Oh, oh !
"S'.... Pretty-flower-man ?"
Oh dear.At least, the cat had not been alone in her task to keep tabs on the three little... darlings ? Through her helper did not seem much focused on the task at hand, staring out the window rather blankly, almost as if he had been glancing and listening to someone unseen.
Well, unseen to most, at the very least.
It was the ghost, a young woman, that alerted him of the entrance in the room, and then was promptly gone, just as Ankou turned to face them. "Lord." He said, bowing his head respectfully. "It is an honor, though... you might want to watch out for crayons."
Yes, he'd actually spend so much time with this rampant chaos that he actually said it with a straight face. Echo had seemingly gone somewhere with her aoidei, but it was not such for him.
Ivynian  Soft explanations to float down from unseen sources, "If you touch the faces of your brothers to 'see' with your hands, you will note they are different. It is the same with the crayons, though their shape is the same, there is a 'seeing' difference. The difference of Light, which is that heat and warmth that plays on your face when you near a lamp or Lord Illumin, which can be brighter or darker. "
"Flower Man?" Creation looked up to the boy still toying with the coloured wax. "Well, I made some, yes. But I am not only flowers. "He slid his feet, rather then step, so that any crayons in danger would be slide out of a path instead of broken under adult-sized feet. "It is no trouble. In long ago days a family's worth was counted of its blessed children. The Lord and Lady here are well enriched, and you the Lucky Uncle. Perhaps a lesson from elder to younger brother? Though long faces worn at windows rarely speak of secret sweethearts."
"The pieces?" The feel of them in the room was unmistakable. Nodes of familiar energy that had worn close to his own out of mortal thought in ages ago. Tens of ages ago.
Thabara "I do consider myself blessed. To have a family like this … it is a treasure indeed." There was the hint of a smile upon Nergal's face, widening just a little as he cast a sidewards glance at his brother. He knew all too well about his not-so-secret sweetheart. "I daresay he has begun to catch up already." It was evident that he was much more at ease, in the presence of his family, his demeanor less formal. This was – albeit borrowed, and only temporary, from his point of view – 'home' after all. He handed the garment which had been returned to him to Priya to take care of it. Apparently this saved his firstborn from 'getting his ears pulled until they were as long as a rabbit's' – at least if he'd caught the aoide's hissed whisper correctly. "I will have word with him," he promised. "Later."Priya rolled her eyes. So far, her Master's lectures and sermons held to his eldest seemed to either have no effect whatsoever, or it evaporated into thin air as soon as he stepped out of the door and the children were on their own. "Yes, Lord," she muttered, glaring at the green boy showing off his 'treasures' to his sister. "You'd better, Lord, because one of these days I'm going to sew a thread through his ears, and hang him up by them. I am certain that'll improve his ability to listen a great deal." Nergal quirked a brow, but he knew all too well about the child's startling talent to trigger one's fuse in no time whatsoever, including his own. "I will talk to him," he renewed his promise, settling to give Sotiris an admonishing glare for now. "No bugs or worms crawling about in our bedroom, is that understood?""Treasures~?" Crys clapped her hands in anticipation of the things her big brother might have brought back from his 'adventure'. This caused her to drop the crayons, of course, but she didn't care – her brother's 'treasures' were usually much more entertaining anyway. She hoped it would be something creepy-crawly. Maybe he had found one of those centipillars he'd talked about? Still, she rose her head to listen as Creation spoke to her, the soft sound of his voice all she needed to pinpoint his location and appear to be looking at him, despite of the obvious lack of the organs needed to do so. She mulled over his words, pursing her lips slightly as she did. Some of it made sense to her, some not. Colors, just as the difference between light and dark, continued to leave her utterly mystified. "I still don't understand ..." she finally complained with a pout, though she didn't seem to mind much. She did take mental note of the name 'Illumin' however, registering it as a person worthy to be bugged with questions about such things, should she feel like it. Nergal sighed, giving each of his children a quick ruffle through their hair. "I will explain later," he promised; then straightened his posture and smoothed out the folds of his garments as Harmodius' inquiry reminded him of what they had come for. There would be plenty of time still to spend with his family later. "Over here, Lord," he said, indicating a certain door to one of the adjacent rooms. He strode ahead to open it, avoiding to step on any crayons or other playthings left lying about with practiced ease. Nothing had changed within, it seemed, the room's contents having been mostly left untouched ever since Lady Karaskis had left the last two pieces in his care. Only a bed had been added, for Faran to rest more comfortably.
Zero Dream While Harmodius' comment seemed to catch him slightly off-guard, and that he had been about to answer (after all, it seemed like Nergal had not overheard what he had been talking over with the ghost, and it was important, for now, to keep it that way.), but it seemed his elder brother was more than willing to answer for him. And if he had not realized that what he liked to think was pretty secret was in reality the worst guarded secret of the universe, he surely did now.
"Treasures indeed." He repeated Nergal's own words, and seemed honest enough about them, in despite the rather pointed glance he was sending his elder brother at the moment... Which would have possibly been more threatening if his cheeks had not started taking on the same color than the back of his long hairs. He liked the children well enough, even if they made his personal space an ever-shifting chaos. He did, in fact, like to sneak out with Sotiris every now and then, to play tag or some other such of game that suited the more active child's fancy.
He gave the green terror a wink when he looked toward him, in despite still looking quite embarassed indeed, and when the reason of Creation's presence in the wreck that had become the shared living space of many in the last few months, he let himself slide to his feet and caught up with the rest of them.
"There are seven pieces... or, more accurately, there were seven pieces." He started. "Your own pendant, the one you gave to Lady Panacea, the bones and scale of some species of draconic race that I unfortunately could not identify, a decanter filled with blood that has a key attached to it, a soulless body that I can only assume was to be used for his next reincarnation, a petrified mendrake root, belonging to the ghost of a shaman... which merged with the last piece that was found, a living mortal known as Faran."
He probably sounded quite clueless not to know what to do with all these things to make them one once more, and he certainly felt like such if his reactions where any indications. But fragmented, living souls... perhaps these had fallen under the jurisdiction of his Other, whoever he or she had been. That, or he had just plain forgotten how, which was troublesome on entirely too many levels.
Though, with the way Tian Yue had managed to rename the being that walked alongside them, make Harmodius whole again... What if he could have been put together in a similar way ? The crown's consort held many names, who was to say, after all, that Aristogeiton was his true name ? Did mortals have true names much like the gods did ?
This was worth some thought.While it was true that Akakios' mind seemed on a wholy different level of development that his somewhat limited speech would make the clueless onlooker think, it was also true that he had never, exactly, found words to explain to his older sister exactly what colors where like. Which did not mean he had never attempted. Though those attempts where most often than not in vain.
He'd acknowledged the answer he was given with a nod, but it seemed the adults where busy to do adult things and he left them to such, though the boy seemed very amused by his uncle's reaction. "Thinking 'bout auntie Cos again..." He whispered delightfully with a small, amused giggle, that clashed with the look of his face.
Though, when Ankou started to speak, he attention was captured once more, and he listened intently, even as Soto would show his treasure - it was for his sis and not for him, after all, so there was no reason to keep complete attention beyond satisfying the curiosity of just what it had been.
When the three gods had dissapaired behind the door, he padded his way to it near-silently, one ear laying on the smooth surface in hope of being able to overhear some of this.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris' scowl darkened further at Priya's announcement of how she would go about making him listen better. Who was she to boss him around?! Pfft. Silly aoide. Just because she belonged to his father certainly did not mean she was the boss of him. He sputtered a bit indignantly when his father ruffled his hair and insisted that they would speak later. He wanted to declare his father a traitor in supporting Priya's demands that he behave. He didn't feel he was truly misbehaving at all! Sure, he went on adventures outside of the confines of their living area, but he had not broken anything (on purpose) in a really, really long time! Instead of yelling at his father he kept perfectly silent and wrapped a protective arm about his sister's shoulders. " No worms on floor," he agreed with a sigh. He had gone out of his way to catch centipillars, too. His eyebrows lifted in curiosity as his father, uncle, and Harmodius trekked into another room to discuss the strange things he was not allowed to touch. He smirked when Kios put his ear to the door. It was best that he listened in. He was cute enough to avoid getting into trouble. Soto turned back to his sister after rummaging through his satchel and handed her a small box he had found while rummaging. " Cannot give you centipillars right now because of Dad," he said with a pout, " But here, has a spidey-thing instead? Dad did not say no to spidey-things."
Ivynian Creation’s hand lifted and hovered for moments over the shallow-lifting chest of the young engineer. The stillness of the Eldest was stark, practically unliving, against even that dim unconscious. "There is no choice left to him; it is already begun.”Scanning the pieces he shifted his hand and lay it over Faran’s closed eyes. "The key upon the decanter is of no use any longer, its place and treasure were Eaten. The Sword is lost.”
"Here is what must follow. The mandrake should be powdered and added to the blood. The Body should be burned and the ashes collected. The bones, left alone initially. The pendant will rest upon this boy’s throat and he shall be opened…the blood mixture and bones put into him as his own. Then he will be closed, the funeral rites performed over him proper to a king of men. The ashes painted over all of his skin, especially the wounds of surgery. Then silent and singular, sealed in state for seven days he must be lain. No longer then that. Upon opening the tomb, what was sundered will be seen to be made anew. "
And then? The soul will remember, no doubt, but it has been so long…and for the first time since the beginning I myself am new. And I am not I that he would desire, but the other half of the same. In novelty faith must be given that pining love will not falter or grow into bitter fruits. "Joined, his soul will remember its name, though the body and person will need new calling to answer to. Aristogeiton nor Sanatruces, those known by you, were not Truename, rather they were use-names as much as Harmodius is upon my self. " He answered the unspoken question as well, the curiosities of the others filtered through his awareness stronger with his distraction. Of all places, he was most there in those rooms and place. "The task is gruesome. Perhaps best to remove its completion from a home of mirth and children. I can take this burden. "
"Your troubles in gathering the pieces alone are a task of wonder and renown. I am in your debt. "The pieces faded one by one, vanishing to some unknown keeping away from the gathering.
Thabara Nergal frowned ever so slightly at the mention of the sword, but the expression was fleeting, barely noticeable. So, one more weapon against the Grigori was lost, how unfortunate … He shook off the vague (and irrational) feeling of being the one responsible, listening closely to the Elder's voice instead. He never would have thought of burning the body, none of them had. It made so much sense that he was barely able to resist the urge to slap his forehead to not have thought of it himself – but his … all their minds had been paralyzed, perhaps, by the prospect of possibly losing one of these precious pieces after they had finally managed to bring them all together … "Mirth and children in my house, hm?” Somehow he found the thought to be strangely amusing, enough to bring the hint of a smile to his darkened lips. But he was indeed relieved to see the pieces spirited away, gone from the presence of his beloved and children. "I had my own reasons to aid in gathering the pieces,” he replied softly. "There is nothing I would ask for in turn,” he added, the talk of debt being too reminiscent of his own. Surrounded by family, the woman he loved at his side … The renewal of his realm was his to take care of, and even what he had desired most … He gently touched upon the phial dangling from his neck upon a length of silver chain. A star for his own skies, however small and lonely it might turn out to be ... Truly, he couldn't think of anything he'd ask for, not right now. He was truly lucky, he realized. "On the contrary. If you would have my aid in what is to be done next, I would be more than willing to help you carry that burden.” He glanced up at Harmodius, his expression sincere. While he'd never been able to read expressions or body language particularly well, there did seem to be some uncertainty akin to his own. "And while it may not be in my place to speak for her in her absence … The Lady Fire had a hand in gathering these pieces as well, and I am certain she would make the same offer as I. In fact she has been a great help, lending her presence and powers to incinerate a great many of the funerary pyres as of late.” Much of this task would be his own to do, he realized, should the offer be accepted. There were little to no servants left in his service, barely any new disciples gained. The divinities of funeral and embalming were still gone, maybe never to return at all, if the birth of a wholly new Lament and Grief was a hint. But to arrange for a tomb, the funerary rites, a pyre for the body, he could do that. The cutting and the sewing perhaps as well - it had been part of the embalmers tasks. Already he was compiling a list in the back of his head, of the oils and balms he would need, the linens and amulets to wrap the body … He could do this, he felt, his enthusiasm and eagerness obvious for everyone to see, even in spite of the possibility of finally restoring his own realm singing quiet but constant siren song deep within his consciousness, ever since it had first been mentioned. "There are, however, two small requests I had intended to bring up anyway ..."
Thabara  "Spidey-thing~!" Crys cooed, unaware of the attention her brother's paid to the door their father and his visitors had passed through. Even though, unbeknown to herself, she couldn't help but keep 'staring' at it. There had been something about the stranger their father had brought along, some profound sense of loneliness and sadness, that kept drawing her attention. "Can I eat it?" she inquired, quite aware by now not everyone seemed to approve of her devouring the things that had been gifted to her, especially while they were still alive.
Zero Dream Ankou listened to the explanation just as attentively as his older brother did, perhaps even moreso, at the detailing of the steps that would be needed. Right now, it seemed like no wonder that much of this had always seemed to escape him - it was much more complicated than replacing pieces of a broken soul as one into one body. And, without the consort's true name, as his thoughts where confirmed by the Eldest, he figured there was little he could have done, anyway.
Especially at the state his powers were now.
Perhaps the Eldest sending Medicine on this task had been specifically for this purpose...
"Two of the weapons have been found." Ankou straightened and peered upward once more at the mention of the sword... and it non-existence. "I have retrieved the jesses of Rebirth myself, along with the host of Lord Oath." Even though Byrne now... well, he was well-assured Harmodius knew of that. "And I am certain Your Dragons found Gaia's shears and returned them to safety as well." He had not heard much of this, but he was certain that it had to be so. There was no hesitation in the Spirit Guide's voice.
"If the consort's sword is lost, then... Lord, can you remember the location of your own glaive ?" Perhaps eaten along with the sword, perhaps too late, but he had to know. "If it yet exist... I believe it would be safest to have it found and brought here. For when they return."
Not if.
When.
But now he was just pushing his luck, he seemed to notice belatedly, and his speech of sort calmed. "Likewise, Lord Harmodius - if I may be of any help, even if sorely as an additional pair of hands, please do not hesitate to call upon me." He would have His way to be able to do so no matter his location, of such he was certain. He was likewise glad that pieces where moved - mostly out of curious small hands, and that the whole process would happen elsewhere. Had it had happened right here, he was certain, Anima would have had his head for the amount of cleaning up afterward. Thankfully, even with being able to hear the three voices somewhat clearly though the door, Lament did not understand much - far too little to wind up horrified by the process, if he even would have.
It was all very interesting, but also mostly beyond his understanding. "Hmmm..." He pondered out loud, softly, before returning his attention inward.
Ivynian "The weapon of my station yet exists, though it is gone from its long rest and lays in trusted keeping yet. ....” He seemed to consider over the object, and come to some unspoken decision, "It will come to a better purpose soon enough.”
"Requests? By all means, speak and what can be granted shall be. "
Thabara Nergal remained uncertain if his offer was appreciated, but decided to drop the matter for now and to not insist. It could still be discussed at a later time should the need arise. "While my brother and I are certainly close, and I know for sure he much cherishes the presence of Lady Echo and the children … I feel we should not take advantage of his hospitality for much longer." He offered an apologetic smile to his brother. Ankou had never complained, but he seemed to feel the need to escape the confines of the crowded and lively quarters they shared just as often as he himself did. And Cosine would likely appreciate the privacy as well … "Rooms to share with my betrothed and our children for while we stay at the Pantheion. I will not require separate ones for my own use."
"The other request ..." He clasped his hands behind his back seemingly calm, but could not quite avoid that his wings shuffled uneasily. "There is an item I would like to retrieve from Lucius' rooms, if it actually withstood the influence of Decay. A board game, which belonged to his host ..." He pointedly avoided to look into his brother's direction now. "It is of sentimental value to me," he admitted somewhat embarrassed, "and I think … the children would like it."Nergal glanced down, immensely grateful his blush no longer showed. He had passed by the door to Universe's empty chambers almost every single day, but to simply enter without permission had been completely out of question. He could take his children with him, he thought. If Lament and Grief were to accept the Elder's request, Lucius' rooms might be a good starting point for them to figure out what to do.
Ivynian "Seek then a door of supplicants, arms raised in song as they move along winding paths to find the lands of the dead. These doors will bring you to apartments that you may shape to your need and as you find pleasing. The greater part may be achieved by your blessed union, though a space aside is set for each child to shape as their own will, for gods they are, and greater yet they will grow to be. ” "Of Lucius' rooms and once possessions, you are also free to enter and take what you and your family will. Most of what he called his was moved long ago to a place apart. But there is so little that can be...had...in these first spans after Gehenna that all Things should find use and care if there is such to be had of them. "
"You're requests are simple, Underworld, and not deviated from the ordinary. There was little need for hesitation."
Zero Dream The Spirit Guide simply gave a nod of the head at the explanations given, and did not press the subject any further, instead remaining silent as his brother voiced his requests. The first he had seen coming, and was more certainly glad for (as much as he appreciated their presences, the Guide also kind enjoyed his own privacy... of which there had been little in rooms so crowded.
The second... certainly seemed to surprise him, but he said nothing. He had not known that his brother had been close to the fallen Universe... And while he wondered what would happen with that, what would become of the sky, as he doubted Lucius himself would return from the Eldest's words... He did not ask, for he was quite sure Harmodius had to deal with that question near-constantly. He could ask Nergal later on.
Thabara Nergal bowed respectfully. "Thank you."He himself would not make use of the granted quarters all too often, he felt, given that he'd likely leave whenever his business here was finished. But for Echo and the children, as well as his brother, this would be a boon. Though he'd rather not think about what his children would come up with for the part of the chambers they were allowed to shape as their own, especially Sotiris. Given, his only daughter's fondness of worms, snails, mud and all things 'squishy' in general was just as worrysome … "Now, if there is anything else I can do which lies within my powers ..." The death god's voice trailed off, obviously at a loss of how to proceed. If this was his realm, his court, surely this wouldn't prove to be a problem. But in the privacy of where he currently lived … He wished Echo was here. She easily would be able to come up with something, he felt. Smooth out this awkward moment with her laughter, with a song she'd come up this very moment. Where was she anyway? She'd longed so much for Creation's presence, it seemed a real shame she would miss his visit.
Ivynian "The greatest help to me, and to yourselves, is to seize your powers, your powers, and raise up again your temples. Raise your followers. Order your duties of old, and evaluate them, and become...Gods. As Underworld, raise up and open the gates to house the wandering and lost souls....they are legion now. As Guide....help to bring them to those gates. I cannot do all these things of my own....not and accomplish what there are no hands to accomplish but mine. ” "Worry no longer for the resurrection of Aristogeiton. Perhaps he will seek you out, though, when he is returned. He will need the help of all the Gods, and will be a great ally among you in dealing with Destruction and in leading Mortal races. In these tasks he is kingly fit. "
Zero Dream Ankou nodded at the Eldest's words. It was up to them to do things, after all. "I have been leading any I could find, alive or otherwise, to this place, for the time being. I have also started going though the ruins to see what can be put to other purpose, what can be re-used." It was not what he had been meant to do, no, and perhaps it would sound a little silly - but with no Underworld, and the fact that he was mostly rooted to one plane, with little to no easy mean to hop from one world to another in search... He could use the Doors, yes, but he found it rather tiring on his mana to open and close many too quickly. That would come later. One by one. Still, those points were not enough to stop him from at least trying to do something.
And he'd, apparently, gained some attention in the process. Within these halls, there could be some protection for the survivors... at least he hoped.
That, and heading too far by his lonesome... did not seem like a good idea. Not at the moment, at any rate.
Followers, temples... Surely he had once had such, but he remembered nothing of it. Perhaps this was better - he would have no memory to try and match once the time came. No expectation rather than do.The small, lavender-haired godling had not moved from the door, though he still did not understand just what the adults were talked about. The child pouted, but refused to give up just yet.
He was sure it had to be rather interesting, but... !
Thabara If there was any reaction at his offer having been denied, Underworld at least did not show it openly. But neither did he insist on the matter, nor did he seem offended, which said enough on its own. Resurrecting Aristogeiton, the intimacy of it, it was probably something best be kept between these two … But he'd at least wanted to make the offer. "It shall be," he only said with a curt nod, aware of the constant whispers of the dead more than ever in this moment (while his children were suspiciously quiet, he couldn't help but notice). His temples of old, not soaring high but instead burrowed deep into the bowels of the earth. The tombs hewn into massive rock, built to last for eternity. Some of the ancient structures ought to have survived, and could be put to use for the living, though the idea of it irked him to no end. He put that aside for now, his posture straightening. "The next time we meet, it may well be in my own halls." It was both, promise that things would be taken care of, as well as a tentative invitation for some unknown future time.
Ivynian "May it be so.” Harmodius bowed to each in turn, having little else that seemed appropriately formal to add. Seeing and Knowing things were different, and the gathered Ages that had passed since last hoping for any news felt like dust of cement that had fallen long from a great height. A trap watered and hardened with tears and time. Awareness nearly fled altogether rather then fully confront the possibilities in immediacy. And distraction was tantalizingly present and near in the sounds of small breath and bright souls beyond the door. JUST beyond the door in some cases. In mood, however, the airs and Lord-Father in question seemed stolid as ever. Staying on, or requesting leave to enjoy the company of the small ones was no doubt out of the question. "It is impossible to wholly express the gratitude felt for your efforts. ...but again, thank you. I to mine own tasks and thee to thine, as it were."
Thabara Nergal merely nodded distractedly, thoughts already traveling back to the Gate, the prospect of what could have been done already, if only he hadn't … if only he hadn't … "As it were," he agreed absently, already brooding over too many things at once to truly notice the Crown's leave, or that he was possibly being rude. The matter of the Consort done with and out of the way, there was still so much else that needed to be taken care of now. He had been idling much too long.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:53 am
A Space of His Own
The little godling sets about making his room all his own.The young godling stood in the middle of one of the rooms his parents had indicated belonged to him and his siblings. His sister and brother claimed their rooms rather quickly, and he was left with the room closest to the aoidei. He didn’t especially like that, but in some ways it worked out to his advantage. He would know when they came and went.
He also discovered that if he willed it so, that particular door could lock. That thought pleased him immensely. His delight increased tenfold when he came to the realization that there was a skeleton key that went to the lock itself.
He held it tightly in his hands and glanced around at the blank walls. He would need a place to hide it. He didn’t want to lose it or take up the limited space he had in his pouch. A hiding spot would be absolutely necessary.
His little brow furrowed in his contemplation. A drawer maybe? He sighed a bit irritably and threw himself to the floor. He wallowed around until he found a comfy spot and shut his eyes. Lots of drawers. Cabinets. Each with a lock of some sort. He smiled at the thought and kept up his imaginings. He would certainly need a lot of little nooks and crannies for hiding his things.
His sister had turned her room into a bit of a mess; his brother’s was much too neat. Something in between the two and perhaps a bit on the plush side would suit him best. He decided that would make for a nice room, especially if there were lots of fluffy blankets and pillows involved.
He rolled over onto his stomach and buried his face against his arms as he tried to imagine what else he would be need. He honestly wasn’t sure. He sighed heavily and gradually brought his face back up and opened his eyes.
Sotiris blinked and openly gaped at his surroundings in surprise. Hah! Who knew it was so simple a thing to do! His room was coming together nicely with only a little bit of willpower. In his humble opinion, it was far better than what he had been imagining. He laughed merrily before jumping up to his feet. The ceilings of his room were rather high, but he liked that. It made it feel more like he was outdoors rather than trapped in a meager room.
There were indeed doors, drawers, and cabinets all along the walls and built-in shelves in certain places. They would be perfect for storing all of his miscellaneous treasures he came across!
He darted over to a rather small drawer and dropped the key he had been clutching so tightly into it. He shut it and locked it with an even smaller key. He held it out in the palm of his hand and gazed at it curiously. It was much smaller and thus far more convenient than the other one. He was also rather fond of its shiny golden color.
An idea struck him and he shut his eyes tightly. A mirror. He certainly needed one of those, or at least something that appeared mirror-like. He opened his eyes and a small frown tugged at his lips. Where was his mirror?
He paused for a moment before becoming upset and opened a rather large door that had not been there moments before. Behind it was his mirror and a series of smaller drawers that had a bureau-like appearance. He threw up his arms with a look of triumph before bringing them quickly back to his chest as he realized the motion might accidentally cause him to lose his tiny key.
No, no, he couldn’t have that! Tail wagging happily he leaned forward and peered at himself in the mirror. He giggled quietly and contented himself with making faces at himself for a moment before he focused once more on his task.
Very carefully he set the key atop of the bureau and then divided a few pieces of his hair the way he had seen his father do with his sister’s. It took a few tries, in addition to a bit of grumbling, before he figured out how to braid properly. He undid the braid a few times to make one it a bit neater before tying the end of his hair through the loop of the key.
He laughed, amused with himself when he tied his own hair into a knot of sorts that left the key dangling and partially hidden in his hair. There! Now he would always know where it was and there would be no aoidei in his room. Hopefully.
He danced around with an excited bounce and gave a joyous shout before pouncing into a nest of pillows that were mounded up on the floor. He burrowed his way into them like an excited pup and settled himself there with a wide yawn. He quickly realized his room-building had used up a great deal of his energy.
His eyes drifted closed once more, and he found that he was very sleepy. He burrowed a little deeper into his pillows and blankets until only the top of his head and one foot was visible. Not but moments later he was snoring softly and dreaming of all the things he would find while es’ploring to fill his cabinets and drawers.
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Posted: Wed May 23, 2012 6:54 am
Kingdom Come
Nergal leaves to remake his realm.Thabara "I do not know how long this will take," he said slowly, after having contemplated the gaping black rectangle which led down into the catacombs for a while now. The heavy trap door which had secured the access for centuries, had not withstood the tests of the Week of Decay very well. The wood had withered and rotted away, leaving behind only rusty bands of iron which were lifted and moved out of his way easily enough. "I will not be gone for too long, I hope. Days. Perhaps weeks." He turned to look at those who had decided to accompany him to the threshold, take in their faces. The mortals, pale and worn. Life was harsh, difficult for those who had survived. It was up to him to ensure that, after their struggle, they at least would not have to fear Death, and to not restlessly wander for all eternity. His aoidei, seeming upset still that he would not allow them to accompany him any further than this. Priya, especially, had been furious and still kept shooting him angry glares while her hands rested upon the shoulders of his firstborn, whose expression mirrored hers. Little Guardian … His time would come. His other two children seemed more composed, Kios appearing to be curious more than anything, and Crys interested in playing with the pebbles on the ground rather than her father's passing. "If I fail … I should be back soon enough. Should I succeed ..." He shook his head. There was no way of knowing, really, how long this endeavor would take. For a whole realm to be reborn … "The spirits of the dead, I trust, will find a way to let you know." His gaze sought the eyes of those he knew had the Gift. Little Gracie, Kios … His brother wasn't here, unfortunately, restless as he was, gone off to partake in yet another quest. To take count of the remaining stars and worlds … He wished he could have gone with them instead of … Suddenly the burden of what he was about to attempt seemed to weigh so heavily. The freedom to do as he pleased, to go wherever he wished. He would gladly give that up to see his domain restored, or so he had told Destruction. Now he discovered it was not all that easy. The regret he felt … He had let himself become attached. He stepped up to his Love, taking her hands, caressing first her fingers with his lips, then kissing her passionately. She was concerned for him, he could see the lines of worry upon her delicate features even though she tried her best to smile for him. She alone knew of what Destruction had told him, of what the price to pay might be should he succeed. But back then, he had been only a Morphling, half mortal still. "Do not worry," he moved to whisper into her ear, cold lips slightly touching upon the sensitive skin. "Have faith in me, such as I have faith in you." He bent down, cold wings folding forward and embracing her as their lips gently touched once more. Stern, rigid Underworld, and compassionate, emotional Music, who would ever have seen this coming … Kore, mayhaps. She always was wise beyond my comprehension. He let go of his lover's hands, fingers softly tracing the delicate line of her chin instead, melancholy creeping into his eyes. There was no way telling for how long they would be parted, despite his assurances that he would be back soon enough. "You are strong, my love. Far stronger than you may think." He let go of her completely, giving a quick hug to each of his children, even though Soto was squirming to escape from his embrace. "Daddy wont be gone for long," he renewed his promise to them, not sure he would be able to keep it. Then he stepped back, eyes filled with regret and the pain caused by the parting, wings flaring to their full span as he turned his back onto them, quietly descending the stairs. Alone. The only ones allowed to accompany him beyond the threshold were the Dead. He did not look back.
Reyna Crelos Sotiris sucked in a sharp breath as his father disappeared into the catacombs. Every muscle in his body was tense, and he had to blink back tears. He felt that he ought to be allowed to go with him. He was Guardian, and his father was going somewhere dangerous. He wasn’t absolutely certain what he’d be able to do to help him, but he was convinced it was better than what he was being forced to do. Nothing. He was allowed to do nothing. Tears began to stream silently down his face despite his best efforts to keep his emotions contained. He didn’t want his siblings or his mother to see him cry. His sister would know how he felt regardless given her domain. He drew in another breath and glared up at Priya and shrugged her hands off his shoulders as they turned to make their way back towards the Pantheon. He remained silent and stalked off a few steps ahead of his family. They didn’t quite deserve his anger, and he wasn’t so certain he could control his temper just at the moment. Everything he felt was too much to handle: too volatile, too potent, too much, too soon. He wanted to scream. He wanted his father.
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