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 Posted: Thu Sep 06, 2007 5:16 pm
Lore was indifferent, but Lysander clearly wished to remain a little longer in Saljin's presence, reversing his feelings of mere moments ago. It might have had to do with the Undera's somersault, which he found quite amusing.
"Do the fortune tellers here actually See?" Lysander asked.
Lore waited, and after Jaster made his reply he said in an undertone, "You owe me nothing, Jaster. One studies magic to learn to facilitate. I have only done as any student of magecraft mgiht have done."
This was not quite true, as there were as many who made a study of magic and used the power for purposes considered evil as used them for good purposes, but Lore felt that it was his duty to act as an ambassador for magic-users everywhere, and he would not willingly give them a bad face.
You may have a point. How does a trip to a fortune teller sound?
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Posted: Sat Sep 08, 2007 10:06 am
((That works for me. A fortuneteller is a good opportunity to cause trouble or allude to things noone knows yet, lol. XD I actually use one from time to time for my Edel.))
Jaster thought for a moment. "I've not been to her yet, but I've heard that some are able to tell things that come true. I wonder what she'd say."
The boy frowned for a moment. "I want to take this stuff back where I live so you could go see the animals and then I will meet you at the fortuneteller." He suddenly laughed. "I'm curious what she would say."
Saljin tilted his head as he listened carefully. What was a fortuneteller? He listened with a great deal of interest.
Jaster picked up the things and turned to Lore. "Does that work?" he asked, smiling. "Half hour? Her tent is on the other side and the animals are the way." He pointed his chin in two different directions.
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Posted: Sun Sep 09, 2007 5:52 pm
Lore accepted Jaster's proposal, confirmed it, and then set off with Lysander at his side, toward the direction which smelled like animals. He could have located the place magically, as Jaster's directions had been less than informatinve, but his normal five senses worked quite well, and there was no need for him to use magic that didn't need to be used.
His nose proved to be an apt compass, for they came across the animals shortly. Lysander peered at them with interest, but when he saw the manner in which they were confined he looked pained and suggested that they move on. Lore was used to seeing animals on display and in worse conditions than this carnival kept, but he acquiesced. He could understand that Lysander, being a creature more in touch with nature than human beings, was more sensitive to the treatment of nature's denizens.
They walked on until they reached a tent with a gaudy sign over it that read "Madame Xerez, Fortunes Told." There were lots of giggling people outside the tent, all holding almost identical conversations:
"Should I?"
"Go ahead. It won't hurt, right?"
"Yeah, but I don't really believe in this stuff."
"Really? A palm-reader once told my Aunt Tracy that she'd meet her husband that same day."
"Did she?"
"Yes. She met the palm-reader's husband at the ring-toss booth a few hours later."
Laughter.
Lore had the distinct feeling that this world put no stock in fortune tellings whatsoever. That interested him. He was used to more superstitious people, he supposed, and used to Seers being treated with some respect. Things were different here, he reminded himself.
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Posted: Tue Sep 11, 2007 7:19 am
It didn't take Jaster and Saljin long to get back to the cabin. He carefully placed the things where they'd be safe. Twice he stroked the quilt to make sure that it was really there and glanced at his mother's picture.
"It'll be alright, mom." he said softly, a faint smile on his face. "I'll be alright."
Tucking the image back into the tin, he looked about for a safe place to put it. When he found what he considered such, Jaster turned to the undera who had been watching him closely.
"Ready, Saljin?" he asked moving towards the door.
"Yes. I like Lore and Lysander." he stated. "What is a.. fortuneteller?"
"A person who tells your future or at least what they think they see of it." the boy replied, scratching his head. "I can't say whether they know for sure but it should be fun anyhow." He shrugged as they moved down the path.
"I see." he replied softly. He didn't but it was an expression that Jaster used whenever someone explained something to him.
"You'll figure it out when we get there, Saljin." the boy replied with a surity that caused Saljin to glance his way.
Before long they were just outside the tent the lady used. His eyes darted over the crowd looking for them.
Stepping up beside Lore, Jaster said, "That didn't take too long. We hurried."
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Posted: Wed Sep 12, 2007 5:24 pm
Lore nodded, agreeing with Jaster's statement. There wasn't really any way he could dispute it. Besides, the necessity of the boy's return to his home had given him an opportunity to warn Lysander that this fortune teller would probably be a farce, but that it should, at least be amusing. Lysander had been horrified by the disrespect given to a Seer, which had prompted Lore's explanation.
"Shall we?" Lore asked, motioning toward the brightly colored tent. He would welcome some diversion.
I'm going to let you say what all happens next with the entrance and all that. I've never been to a fortune teller or palm reader in my life.
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Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2007 9:46 am
((Okay, I can do it. I used to GM a forum ffrpg so she will be no problem. I will warn you though that I tend to go with what I see in someone else's writing and use what they do against them. I like slapstick and irony alot. ^_^;; ))
Jaster nodded, smiling. The last time he'd been to a fortuneteller had been a carnival with his mom. The lady had been a farce but it had been fun. His mom had even dressed up when they'd gotten home. A few moments later she'd introduced herself as some Madame Ophelia and used a deck of cards to tell his fortune. They had laughed alot that day.
She was dressed in a tiered skirt and blouse that were plaids and paisleys mixed in every shade under the rainbow. A shawl in red was wrapped around her shoulders and tied. Strands of small and huge beads surrounded her neck and wrists. A glass ball on a pedestal was placed on the table before her. Violet and black eye makeup as well as bright red lipstick was on her face.
The globe had an electric light in the bottom and Jaster already knew it was not a crystal ball like his mom had told real seers sometimes used as a focus. He'd never thought to question how she knew.
But that's what she had called them and then explained to him that seers were very different from carnival fun. They might find amusement in their tellings and lace them in riddles, but their gifts were nothing to be made fun of. Their abilities were magic she said with a secret smile as if she knew for certain.
Saljin tilted his head sideways at the garish woman before them. Then he noticed the slight movement of the curtain behind her. A shadow of a figure moved behind for an instant then the jingle of a spoon in a teacup could be heard. He moved towards that direction his attention entirely taken until the woman before them spoke.
"Come in! Come in!" she said, her voice lilting upwards almost into a screech of sorts. A grin broke out on her face and the brightness of the red lipstick only made her seem more surreal and out of place here. "And what can Madame Dorvas do for you? Tell a fortune perhaps." she added, playing the role to the limit as she did what she thought all gypsy fortunetellers did.
The undera blinked in surprise as the woman patted the table. He drifted back behind Jaster frowning at the loudness. The boy snickered slightly, shaking his head. This was much what his mother had done in make-believe. This was merely a farce for fun and he was going to have some.
"I want my fortune told." he said. "Think you can read it?" he challenged boldly. "If so you'll have to do better than you did with the ones who were in line before us."
The woman blinked nonplussed and had the grace to turn slightly pink. The spoon in the cup behind the curtain stopped for an instant as a slight snicker was heard. Then it began again.
"A challenge?" the woman said, recovering quickly as she glanced at all four. "You are all together, so please have a seat, and I will tell you what is in store for you."
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Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2007 3:58 pm
Lysander and Lore, being almost of a height, though Lore was unusually tall for a human, exchanged a look over the head of all. This was definitely a hoax. However, they were willing to submit to it, for the sake of diversion. That was what Malecoda had told them to do: have fun.
They took seats by the table alongside Jaster and Saljin, Lysander doing so a bit more awkwardly than Lore, lacking legs, or even anything below his hips. Saljin probably was similarly impaired, though Lysander couldn't tell because Lore and Jaster were between the two orb-born.
Lore cocked his head as he felt something not quite like magic brush him, like a loose piece of silk. It was among his abilities to see magic, and so he looked around. The darkness inside the tent did not serve as a hinderance because magic went beyond dark and light in terms of spectra. He found where the magic emanated from - behind the curtain - and would have looked further when the woman spoke again.
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Posted: Thu Sep 13, 2007 11:05 pm
Madame Dorvas had been entirely surprised when Jaster challenged her fortunetelling. That much was easy to see. No meeting the man posing as her husband or even daughter for these. Though she was quite certain that they knew it was fun, it had still caught her offguard.
"Well, let's see what is in store for you." she glanced at Saljin first. Staring at him a moment, she glanced at the crystal globe. "I see a black bull in your future. And it's got a red flag. Take good care of it but remain out of its path."
Glancing over at Jaster she said, "Hmm... a challenger to my abilities. Perhaps I'll tell you yours last."
Jaster broke into laughter. "It doesn't matter. It would be the same either way." He smirked slightly as he watched the woman. His mother had done a much better job though at making it fun. He watched her skeptically.
The barest tinkle of laughter slipped free of the curtain behind the woman. A faint breeze caused the fabric to sway for an instant. She listened from behind already knowing there was something special in these four and it amused her that they all saw through the glammer most carnival goers enjoyed at face value.
Were they worth her time? She sighed as she sipped her tea savoring it for a moment. Perhaps.
Turning to Lysander, she said, "I see the reigns of a horse of various shades in your hands. I'm sure you will find a use for him."
Watching Lore for an instant, she turned back to the ball. It flashed several times as she focused on it.
"I see a black cat with a yellow ribbon in your future. But I think its claws have been pulled so no worries there." she stated, looking up with a faint smile.
"And now you again, boy. I think there is a tiger waiting for you. His green eyes are very bright and inquisitive, but I don't think I'd catch him by the tail."
Saljin turned sideways to watch the others as she gave each one their fortune. A black bull? "Jaster, what is a bull?"
The boy snickered. "I'll explain it to you later, Saljin. A tiger, huh? I can't wait."
Madame Dorvas laughed shaking her head. "You are a hard nut to crack, child. But have fun." she winked at him. "I suggest that you take a ride on the ferris wheel. The carnival is very nice from the top and the lights shined brightly."
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Posted: Fri Sep 14, 2007 11:41 am
Such excellent advice, Lore knew, he would have to follow. As to black cats with yellow ribbons, well, he would be happy to meet any cat. He liked cats. Lysander looked a little confused at his fortune. It was not quite what he had expected. Actually, it was nothing like he had expected. A horse of various shades, indeed! What utter rubbish.
Lysander rose and began to move toward the exit, his disgust palpable. Lore noted his departure, but his attention was still mostly focused on the concentration of power behind the curtain. He tried to see what was there, but the darkness of the tent made it difficult for him to see anything but the magic. He wished he had his reading glasses. They served the dual purposes of helpign him when reading, and also keeping him from seeing magic while he looked through their lenses.
"What is behind that curtain, Madame?" he inquired politely, ignoring the glare Lysander shot him.
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Posted: Fri Sep 14, 2007 5:41 pm
Before Dorvas could reply, a gentle voice was heard.
"I am. Would the four of you care to join me for some tea?" she asked, moving towards the curtain. A well-manicured hand moved it aside. A young woman with ageless grey eyes peered out from the small opening. Her lips twitched upwards. "Please."
Her smile and amusement deepened. "I am the true challenge here. Dorvas, see that we are not disturbed and I will see that they receive what you have promised them."
Madame Dorvas raised an eyebrow, nodding. "She doesn't bite, so go along. It is an honor to get a reading from her."
Jaster stared at her a moment, caught by the sparkle in her eyes. It was much like his mother's had been. His lips twitched upwards.
"I'm game." he suddenly said, finding his voice. "Let's go, guys." He was already moving towards the curtain as she stepped back holding it open.
"A brave soul." she whispered in amusement. "I like that."
Saljin glanced up at her as he followed Jaster behind the curtain. He stared briefly at her hair then took in her other features. Small strands of curls had escaped around her forehead, though the rest of her snowwhite hair was in dreadlocks that fell to her shoulders in the front and her waist in the back. Silver earrings dangled, but they were unusual. The left was an eye of Udjat and the other was a large hoop with a chain connected to it. The chain looped upwards to an ankh post in her ear.
Around her neck she wore several silver chains of various sizes over the black top she wore over a simply black skirt with an odd silver design in thread at the bottom. A large amulet crafted of silver and various stones gleamed as it hung from a black choker around her neck.
The room was comfortable, with plenty of cushions and warmth supplied not only by the vibrant colors scattered but also by the small stove nearby. A pot of tea was on a tray in the center of the table surrounded by the comfortable chairs and couch. A plate of scones, sweet rolls, and cookies sat beside the empty cups, small plates, and spoons. It was obvious that she entertained from time to time.
"Please take a seat and help yourself to the refreshments." she said, warming her own cup of tea. Then she poured four more, one for each. "If you like cream and sugar, you may help yourself to that."
Her pale eyes watched Jaster a moment, smiling as if she knew things about them already. Then she studied Saljin, Lysander, and Lore.
"New friends." she smiled faintly as she stated without asking. "Those who are kindred spirits are often drawn together but whether for good or bad only time will tell. And I have no crystal ball as I do not need one to see."
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Posted: Sun Sep 16, 2007 3:18 pm
Lore was not overly impressed by the second Seer's pronouncement. Unlike Lysander, he had been acquainted with Seers, and he knew a great deal about them and the limitations which governed their abilities. He knew that even when a Seer seemed to be exactly right, the best Seers didnt' actually See as much as they observed, much like a false Seer. It was simpler, because people rarely wanted to hear the truth.
He did not take cream or sugar with his tea, though he occasionally took honey if the tea was oversteeped. This tea was not, and so he had no cause to ask for the sticky stuff. He smiled to see scones on her table. He had missed scones while living with Malecoda. Trying to explain scones to the kitchen staff was like trying to explain sex to a blade of grass, he'd found.
He sipped politely at the tea while watching Lysander try not to stare. The woman's accuracy, as compared with the other's wild predictions, was remarkable to the Corsea.
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Posted: Tue Sep 18, 2007 10:02 am
She sat down on one of the couches, kicking off the sandals she'd been wearing. A moment later her barefeet were curled beneath the skirt as she continued to watch each one in turn.
"My name is Ijera. I hope you don't mind the informality." she said softly. "I much prefer it." Her eyes turned to watch Saljin for several moments, then Jaster.
"Jaster and that's Saljin." he smiled. He liked her already. "That's Lore and Lysander. We just met but you are right. We are friends already, but I think that's a bit obvious."
She laughed, a warm musical sound that echoed slightly. "Yes, I suppose it is, but then many people miss the obvious and make things much more complicated than needed. I think you are first, Jaster."
"It's been rough for you for awhile now." She watched the boy's eyes closely. A flicker of pain slid through them. She'd already noticed that in the depths of his eyes. "I suspect that you lost someone close to you. Don't worry. Those who really love us still watch over us even as spirits. But pay attention to what you do and how you do it, and you will get what you need. Drink your tea and eat as many of those as you want. Much better than nothing but stolen chocolates, no?" Her lips twitched upwards in secret amusement.
"Hey! How did you know that I..?" he scowled suddenly, glancing down at the floor nervously.
She reached out gently tilting his chin up, so she could see his eyes. "It's alright this time. As I said, just pay attention to what you do. You have a wonderful life ahead of you full of adventure and true friendship, but you must consider your actions."
Jaster nodded to her. "I'll try."
Ijera smiled, patting his cheek, then turned to Saljin. "I think you are next."
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Posted: Tue Sep 18, 2007 3:47 pm
Lore could see the Sight around this woman, and when she turned it on Jaster, and then to Saljin, he suppressed a shiver. He was not used to dealing with true Seers. They were always hard to find, and he was not comfortable with them. Too often they Saw more than they said, and he was a private sort who didn't care for having his insides on display for others. It was, however, something he had chanced when he came to this tent, and when it was his turn, he knew, he would meet her odd-eyed gaze unflinchingly and remain expressionless throughout.
Lysander, impressed with her extensive knowledge, was not sure, entirely, if she had Seen anything, or if she had merely observed these things about Jaster. If a person knew what to look for, he reasoned, these things would be obvious. Jaster didn't look like a person who had lived a privileged life recently, and generally young children didn't live thus unless they lost a care-giver. As for stealing chocolates, he had seen Lysander palm a few things as well, and had written it off as a human fascination. The advice was just common sense, as far as Lysander could tell.
He was interested in knowing what she would have to say to one of the orb-born, however.
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Posted: Tue Sep 18, 2007 7:33 pm
She watched Saljin a moment reaching out to touch hand with the marking on it.
"A curious thing... A punishment this is from a cursed life before but it will benefit you and those around you. Black feather flights and black cats prowling are what I see within still waiting to get free. Both pleasing shapes if one understands them. A way was found beneath... under ..." She hesitated a moment trying to find the proper word. "A second chance was offered from those there and taken." she blinked slightly, her eyes became distant for barely an instant. It was the merest flicker within before she smiled at him. "Golden fairy eyes dance in mischief underneath your protection. This person is important to you and knows much but whether they will reveal their knowledge or not, only they know.
"Golden eyes... Dreams... memories come with golden eyes."Saljin blinked, frowning slightly. There were times he saw those eyes but only as a flash. Sometimes they danced and other times they looked pained. "I... do not remember."
"You were sent to one but another needed you more, so it is Jaster you remain with. In time all will reveal itself and you will understand. Your lost friend will find you again."
She shook her head, sipping her tea momentarily. "It is all I know to help you, Saljin. A good enough purpose as anything."
Saljin had been the orb in her care, though she was unsure why it had been given to her. But she remembered the marking on it as the same on the undera's hand. And Jaster- she suspected he was the one who had not only stolen the orb and chocolates from her tent but also been the boy sold by his father to the animal master. The man was still looking for him, but he'd find no information from her.
Glancing towards Lore, she smiled, her gaze amused. For an instant her eyes intensified, but then she bowed her head slightly nodding. "Lore, I know that you like your privacy. And I have no desire to intrude upon your own magic. We must all have our secret delights afterall. So with your permission, I will amuse Lysander instead."
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Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2007 11:51 am
Lore nodded, keeping his amused smile to himself. He like that this Seer was polite enough to at least pretend not to pry into his life. He knew that she probably had little choice as to whether she Saw anything of him or not, but at least she was trying to respect his privacy.
"By all means," he said with a gesture indicating his permission.
Lysander was a little disappointed. He had wanted to know what the woman would say about Lore. Lore was from another world, not the Underground, which was a shared other world, and he had wanted to see if the woman could See anything about him at all. He, Lysander, thought it was perfectly obvious that Lore was a private sort of person.
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