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 Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:06 am
  Machine & The Shifter
07.27.08 JointCinderfae Cinder and Jaster had disappeared into Cinder's cabin and Mycroft decided for his part that he would stay out of that portion of the ship until summoned. The AI had afterall several thoughts on propriety among other things; one also had to do with being called 'old man' by the red headed male. AI's by the most aren't overly vein creatures but depending on programming and how they develop many can over time develop such tendencies. Settling in most his attention to a generator in a small alcove of the ship Mycroft considered his options. He chose what projection to create and show others originally he had chosen the model he uses now since his name was taken from Mycroft Holmes; Sherlock Holmes' older and more intelligent brother. He had gone for a somewhat more slender male form then Mycroft was known for and made a few modifications that seemed to make the image more appealing. Now he considered a younger appearance as for some reason being called 'old' was starting to wear on his circuits. The AI started cycling through different appearances with his holographic projector, not that he needed to see them but he found the exercise of doing so pleasantly distracting. His sensors picked up movement down the hall after a quick check he found the person moving to be Saljin the shapechanger that was traveling with Jaster. With his friend occupied elsewhere Mycroft took it as being that he was also finding himself with extra time. The AI tracked his movements for a few moments it seemed he was indeed moving this way. Outside the inky blackness of hyperspace surrounded the vessel leaving those inside enclosed and more cut off then they may feel otherwise. Eftemie Saljin moved on into the room that Mycroft was in. He smiled faintly as he looked around. "Hello, Mycroft. I was curious about a few things and thought perhaps you wouldn't mind some company. At least I have the time now, so unless I'm intruding, and if you don't mind supplying me with some information, I'll spend it here." The slightly younger image had surprised him for a moment, but he simply smiled knowing that there was a reason for it. Just like one did not comment on a lady's age or weight, there were perhaps some things one did not with computers. "It's nothing that would get you into trouble with Cinder." Cinderfae Mycroft shifted his attention more to Saljin, the image he was working on was changing slightly in various ways as he considered what should be changed and what should stay. "Certainly, I have more then enough time as it is. It takes only a small part of my control to keep the autopilot on course to our destination." The image turned, a rather thin, well looking gentleman with white hair looked to Saljin. The AI seemed to be adjusting some as well tilting his head the image looked down at a rather nice blue suit he was wearing rather critically. "Though before you ask your questions, what do you think of this suit? I'm not sure I care for it though it does appear at least somewhat attractive..." Mycroft's voice drifted off as he considered the digital tailoring. It wasn't as if he had any ladies to impress but for some reason the more human aspects of himself seemed overly important at this time. Reaching up Mycroft touched the breast pocket of the jacket, taking a pair of spectacles from it that had not been there a moment ago he set them on his nose and then looked over to Saljin, "and what were the questions you had?" Mycroft smiles faintly as he askes. Eftemie "I like it, Mycroft." Saljin stated. "It suits you." He nodded his approval with a smile. He watched for another moment and then added, "My own questions were more about the things out here. Jaster and I have never been to space nor even thought of the worlds out here until Cinder approached us. Could you give me an overview of what goes on out here? I mean the way life works out here, the factions of people and races. I suppose even the creatures that we would run into. Like the priman. There's alot out here and I don't even have the basic knowledge of what I face. I thought perhaps it would be easier for you to explain some of it so that I'm a bit more help rather than just muscle." He smiled faintly. "It's been bothering me since I learned to use a laser gun. There seems to be alot of things that I should be informed about. Although I imagine what I'm asking for is no easy task even for you." Cinderfae Mycroft seemed to consider the question some and reaching up he took the spectacles from his face as if considering if he should keep them or not. For the moment he kept them in his hand, looking over to Saljin he took a long moment to consider. Then behind him in the image a rather comfortable antique chair like the one he usually preferred to have shown for him to sit on appeared. Taking a seat he rested back shifting to find a comfortable appearing position for his legs as he did; after a moment a small stand appeared next to the chair upon it sat his pipe. Picking the pipe up Mycroft held it in his hand before bringing it up to be lit; taking a pull from it he let out a content sound before speaking. "Out there, or rather here is a different system in space then we came from more recently. Truthfully Cinder and I were not even aware of your section of space as the localized star charts go to a variety of systems but not to that one. We actually came upon you rather by accident, luckily had had the course charted and was able to find a decently timed route through hyperspace to get us back to more familiar territory and the various pirates and other sorts. I also accessed what was available of the star charts from Gaia and filled in several sections as well." Letting out a breath of smoke Mycroft took another moment for dramatic pause before continuing onward.
"There are a variety of systems and no one," he pauses, "well I heard that the parasites that have fashioned themselves as gods have one that encompasses the Universe perhaps if he is truly a god he would know. But myself and Cinder do not actually know the full extent of the stars and what they may hold. Even the hyperspace creatures though known of are not fully understood." After a moment an image of a Priman appeared, this one was a tawny color and the image of the creature spun in place between Mycroft and Saljin, "Priman's are from a planet called Sasella, it was originally discovered and colonized by a mining company. Though they are very advanced sentience wise themselves the Primans had a bit of an evolutionary push that created those that you see walking the streets now." The image shifted and now the Priman was wearing rather fashionable clothing, "originally the Priman's were not considered intelligent enough for sentience by humans. A group of activists at one point created a lab upon Sasella and changed their genetics creating a highly advanced and intelligent grouping of Primans. These Priman branched out across the galaxy, they aren't as numerous as some other races but are making marks of their own." Pausing for a moment Mycroft looked at Saljin, "it's almost sadly amusing...in their want to help the Priman they actually turned them into something they were not."The image of the Priman disappeared and then one of a laser pistol like the one that Cinder trained Saljin and Jaster on appeared. "This technology is from the parts of the galaxy that Cinder is more comfortable with and grew up in. As you travel you find different places have a variety of technology some advanced and some less so." Looking to Saljin Mycroft paused, "I can answer whatever other questions you have...I am familiar with the parts of the galaxy we have traveled and do not mind sharing the information."Eftemie Saljin had listened carefully to what the AI was saying. The stars were larger than he had ever dreamed of and he knew that Jaster was enthralled with them already. Both simply liked exploring and if Cinder and Jaster's closeness was any indication, then they would be out here awhile. "The draconians. She said the one we ran into was an outcast. Are they tribal or something else? What is their culture set up like? I'm guessing that there is alot of piracy out here simply because there is so much space that it is impossible to protect every inch so each faction would set up their own rules and enforce that within what they consider their territory. Who are the major peoples out here? And what sort of creatures are out here that one should be particularly wary of?" He suddenly grinned. "If I'm asking too many questions then just say so." Sitting down nearby, he watched Mycroft. "It pays to be ready no matter where one is." Cinderfae Mycroft rested back in the seat smoking his pipe as he did, listening closely to Saljin's questioned he waited for the shifter to get out his variety of questions before answering them. "Ah, Draconians. They are actually a fairly new race to the parts of space Cinder and I frequented." As Mycroft spoke images started to appear between them of a variety of Draconians. A male black and next to him one with the somewhat softer curves of a female but she was white in color. And then a pairing of male and female in red, blue, and green. "Draconians appeared from another galaxy, they were a genetically engineered race. They were sent on a mission to establish a supply line to their home; a part of the galaxy that Cinder and I have never come across. Likely best because that bit of the universe was fighting off an alien invasion. Creatures called only the Swarm; strong powerful, consuming, and never ending. They crashed when they got to one of our outer planets." Mycroft shifted in his seat slightly as one would do if they wished to become more comfortable. "There was already a war at that time, and Pyros the head of the Draconians fought in it during this time he saw what the people were doing and believed he could improve it. And so once the Draconians realized they would not ever be returning home they built a fleet." Mycroft turned the scene between them into the image of several starships moving through space; many were large as if being built for battle. "And they made our galaxy their new home...by use of force. Their technology was more advanced and they quickly brought the current war to an end. That however was not the end of it, within there was division and now there is another war. On one side the Empire and on the other the People's Republic; I'll attempt to not go into too much detail as the amount of data I have could go on for sometime.""Now as for the one we met being an outcast...Draconians use nurseries ran by robots; most times there are no freaks at all among the Draconians as the robots destroy defective ones at birth. In some ways their culture could be tribal...the whites and the blacks at the top; created to be leaders. Reds are the athletes, blue engineers...and the greens fall somewhat short and fill whatever role is left. They tend to be the more outlandish and most in need of proving themselves because of this." Mycroft seemed to think a moment before going on again a thoughtful look on his face, "as for particularly dangerous creatures there are many. It depends on what part of space you end up in, the land octopus for example. Has eight arms that can shred a meal to pieces quite easily." An image of something that looks much like an octopus comes to the screen, heavy claws on each of it's arms, "I only brought those up because sometimes the rich and pirates train them like guard dogs. Don't let their appearance fool you they are quite agile."Mycroft looked to Saljin and smiled slightly, "No one can never ask too many questions it just comes up if I will be able to answer them all. So feel free to ask."Eftemie Saljin nodded, watching all the images that he was being shown. "I think I understand. Almost everything out here is more technology related rather than magical. That explains much. How long have you and Cinder been doing this? Traveling and such, I mean. You've probably seen a great many strange things out here." He was beginning to enjoy talking to Mycroft and he could see them doing this often. "Tell me about some of the adventures you have had." he asked, but then frowned slightly. "I mean.. I'm not interrupting whatever you were doing or need to do, am I? I'd rather not make a nuisance of myself but it seemed likely that you would know some of the things that I've been thinking about. I'm interested in what is out here. I'd even be interested in reading some of it if you can make it available to me in some way." A thought suddenly occurred to him. "I don't suppose that there are too many books available on such things." Cinderfae Mycroft chuckled slightly tilting his head to watch Saljin a moment in amusement. "I have more then enough of an ability to keep the ship running smoothly. Be alert for summons from Cinder or anyone else on the variety of communication systems on this computer and still be able to hold a pleasurable conversation with you all the while. As for adventurers really that is hard to say as I'm not sure what you would call adventurous." Pondering Mycroft settled more to look directly at Saljin, as if each move was his way to become more familiar with the new projected image. His voice had also slightly changed it was the voice of a younger man now but still distinguished and British. "I've known Cinder a very long time, I believe she is somewhere around a century and a quarter in years by now. And I have traveled with her for over a century of that time, my programming originally was written by her. Despite her speech and demeanor at times she is actually rather clever when she wants to be." The AI's voice was that of someone speaking fondly as he relates to Saljin. "Cinder's story is a rather long one with a variety of adventurous affairs, you see she was a privateer for the People's Republic in her home system. Often times that boils down to piracy but over the years her mentality that you are a pirate no matter what it just depends on what side is asked about it."Mycroft seemed to think a moment as if considering what Saljin could be told, after all it was not his life he was relating but the life of the one he looked after for a very long time. He would wait for Saljin to ask a more specific question before going into anything more deeply. For now Mycroft decided to go down another avenue, "books, libraries out here are actually rather expensive to upkeep. This ship itself does not have a library as you would consider it. However, my storage banks are filled with a variety of information along with it are books as are the ship's computer. There should be a data pad around the leisure area and perhaps your room. If you gather one I can download whatever book - as long as we have it. Into the pad and then allow you to read it from there."Eftemie Saljin chuckled for a moment. "125. Close to my own age. I'm somewhere around 115, Mycroft, though I'm sure our circumstances are very different. Mine as you can see," he held up the hand with the marking for the AI to examine, "is due to this curse. It was cast by a man called Zrath when I was around Jaster's age and it has given me longeivity as well as the shifting skill I have. I've recently learned that he and his are still searching for me. I'm the only one to ever escape before the curse was fully shaped on me. He is still alive after all this time and most likely using magical spells to preserve his life. At least those we ran into alluded to such. They all wear a curse similar to mine but none of them have any will except to serve him. I would doubt you have anything on his cult. They are called The Midnight Hexes. Never seen except by those who join their ranks." "Adventures I suppose are a point of view. What I think is one might be thought of as trouble to another. And that may have been the wrong word to use. I am seeking to understand what is out here. I am quite certain that we will be visiting many places once this is over. Jaster seems quite taken with this sort of life. His god is Mystery and to him the blackness of space that some see, he thrills within. But that is what I love about him." Saljin's voice was definitely filled with a fondness for his friend. "I will bring you one of the data pads. I will have to think upon what I would like to read first. It could be useful later. By the way, I like the adjustment to your image and voice. It suits you very well." He smiled faintly deciding he did indeed like Mycroft. Whether machine or not, the AI had a personality to him that was both soothing and friendly. Cinderfae Mycroft looked up as if inspecting the symbol on Saljin's hand a thoughtful look on his face, he then comments, "Cinder's is based off of a variety of medicines of various types. Her home planet is a medical planet...she is only about half through her life span now. The cybernetics at times can elongate life a small degree." Mycroft paused a moment, "I've entered the name into my data banks; we do not have anything on them as of yet. But if something does show up I have made a note to tag it." Several lines of numbers ran alongside Mycroft a moment as if he was allowing a sort of imagery to the fact that he was indeed making the adjustments within his program. "Cinder is often excited by such, and out here as you put it is so expansive she is often able to continue on with them. She does seem to enjoy your friend's company as well...however I am not sure how long the two will actually have." There is a sound something like regret in his voice, "it seems her and the entity within her are growing much closer. I believe they actually grew closer during some time in a stasis chamber, before she did not speak so easily or share so easily with it." Although there is always questions concerning the actual sentience of an AI Mycroft's speech and in the context does sound much like a worried friend would.
"Feel free to ask for whatever you may like, we have sources for leisure reading and those for study. Perhaps some of the answers you are looking for may be found within one of the texts." Mycroft pauses at the compliment as if unsure how to respond at first, "thank you."Eftemie Saljin nodded watching what Mycroft was doing. "I did not really think there would be much on Zrath. Hopefully they are limited to the planet and not out here yet. It would not do to face an army of them." He frowned thoughtfully. "Jaster said that he and Taj will become one. Someone new. Taj needs something from him other than the obvious. I've thought alot about it. I think it's Jaster's strength to do what needs to be done. His father sold him, but he was quick and escaped. He's practically raised himself. With a bit of help from me. He goes out and gets what he wants and needs. I can't say I'm entirely happy to lose him but it is his choice. If there is enough of him there, that we maintain our friendship and caring for one another, I can be satisfied with that because I will still have him. Perhaps that is what the goddess is beginning to see in Cinder. That she is more than just a host to be consumed. It might explain the closeness they have now." The shifter suddenly smiled. "Jaster is smitten with Cinder. I cannot blame him. She is very lovely and full of life. It's rather interesting watching him. I've never seen him act so with any female he has been drawn to. Who knows what it will bring though." Cinderfae Mycroft seemed to consider upon it, "there are many frightening things out here. Though magic as you know it Cinder and I only more recently discovered. Before we were only familiar with the Savants and their hyperspace entities." Mycroft frowned in thought in the image, "I have often wondered if there was a way to understand these magics. I myself...well it is much to grasp. Likely much like learning of cybernetics and machines that think; to you." Shaking his head slightly he looks toward Saljin and sighs gently with a nod. "Yes but even if the parasite melds with Jaster in the end the entity that is left is the parasite with only whispers of your friend within them." Mycroft once again sounded saddened. "Cinder has had that effect on many I fear, though she has only returned the attention to a few. She does seem...smitten as you put it as well. But as you may be able to tell it brings me a sadness for I know it is a fleeting thing."Behind Mycroft a series of bookshelves appeared and the AI turned his projection to smile and look down at Saljin, "so now what was it you were wanting to read? As I said I have quite a collection and you are welcome to most of it. Some I would likely advise against for reading...as I feel you may not find it entertaining."Eftemie "I think we may be surprised by how much of them is left. Jaster spoke of it as a blending of personalities. Memories remain from both as the one formed's own. How could they act othewise with those intact? But I can tell you a little about magic, but other than shifting whose source is the magic of the spell, I know little. I do however have friend well versed in magic. His name is Puck and he serves Oberon, the king of the fairies. Perhaps when there is more time and not so much danger, I could take you to see him or get him to visit. But he's a trickster, so be wary if you do manage to meet him." Saljin grinned at the latter warning. "He was always getting me into trouble. It's why I ended up with Jaster." "Hm... as for reading. I think that I'd like to start on the ship and laser guns. It cannot hurt to know how this craft works. At least the general idea. I've heard phrases mentioned but I have little to nothing to connect them to. So perhaps the history of how such things came to be?" Saljin frowned thoughtfully. He could read frivolity later, but he was more than intrigued by the very things they were using. "Jaster and I used to go to the library a great deal. We learned many of the basics of survival but this is on an entirely new level of what we need to know. And right now I'm the one most interested. But do not be surprised if Jaster asks the same thing later. He enjoys reading and learning as much as I do. It's why Mystery suits him. He wants to know whether he talks of it or not." Cinderfae Mycroft did not comment on the thoughts that there may be more left then one would expect, he remembered the other 'deities' that Cinder and he had met. He saw how the Water one had changed what once was Merci` no even if they blended the AI considered it would be the Parasite that would remain the most active and alive. Cinder's 'goddess' may keep some of her features but Mycroft was not prepared to treat whatever arouse as he treated Cinder. He cut directly to the other route of conversation, "magic as you understand it I believe is much like the abilities the Savants garner. Though I would need to see it, I would be interested in whatever displays you can arrange."Various images started to run past Mycroft where he 'stood' and he gestures to a position in front of his projected image. "Set the pad down there I'll start downloading what information you wish within. I'll set on it various generalized information having to do with laser technology and the basic theory behind various ship drives and abilities." Once Saljin sat the pad down it turned on and a variety of words and diagrams flickered across the screen incredibly quickly. This only went on for a short amount of time before the pad shut off, "I believe you will find what I have lent you to be both interesting and informative. You can always request something more when you get a chance."
"Feel free to speak to Jaster of the datapads when you get time I can set information into one for him as well if he wishes. There are texts on almost anything so if he seeks some sort of specific knowledge he may find it within. However, more obscure things such as the grouping you meantioned before likely have not found entries within the library; because they are so obscure and cut off."Eftemie Saljin nodded picking up the datapad once more. "When we get back, I'll contact Puck and see if he will show you some examples of the magic he uses. It could definitely give you more to assess how it is accomplished if there is a direct source." He moved towards the door, but stopped turning back to Mycroft. "Thank you, Mycroft. I'll let you know when I need something more. If you need anything and I can answer, feel free to ask. I'm going to go do some reading. It was very nice talking to you. We will have to do this again." He bowed then moved out the door towards his room. Curling up to read on the bunk would work nicely. In amusement he thought about the second reason he had asked for the information he had. A tale with romance, females, and more would only push the sensations he continued to have outward more. He was trying to keep them under control. Ship and guns were a distraction but they would work easily enough and he'd have a greater understanding of them afterwards. ((I'm guessing this is a wrap? Saljin has learned what he wanted to know. Though I do see him heading back to talk to Mycroft on the return trip. He wants some information on various lifeforms he might be able to shift to after the small feline works so well.)) 
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:07 am
  Dealing With Pirates
08.13.08 Joint with Cinderfae, Ithiltari, Xanil
Bartering with the pirates for the bones and opal necklace.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:08 am
Company Of Outlaws
08.03.08 Solo
This determines which one is Faran It was up to him to find this person so that he could be identified the next day. Whomever he was, he was the last piece of the puzzle. At least they all hoped so. The opal was said to reveal the person but it could not be used openly or the pirates would figure out what a prize they had and even worse it could prevent saving everything. Instead his skill as a shifter was going to come into play once more. When Jaster had suggested the smaller forms, Saljin had not thought much about it. Now he was glad he'd taken the time. He knew the shapes well enough that he could hold them for some time. He had waited patiently while Jaster tied the opal around his neck. It fit snuggly enough that he'd not lose it, but loose enough not to choke him. Most would think it was a collar on the feline if they didn't get a close look. He'd make sure noone had the opportunity. And the feline would be safer for him than the rat. Triq had already shown him what people thought of rats. They would try to kill him and he did not want the pirates taking potshots at him. Hopefully he'd get to the slave pens without too much trouble. Cinder had reminded him what she'd do if he lost it also. The shifter was not prepared to lose it. "We'll be waiting here, Saljin." Jaster moved over to sit down behind the wall. He leaned back against it pulling out a piece of bread to eat while they waited. "Here." He tossed Triq a roll and then settled down. "I will check as quickly as I can, Jaster." The shifter moved away at a quick pace, but hesitated around rocks and other things until he was certain the pirates on patrol went in other directions. Each movement got him a bit closer though to the docking area of the ship. It was wide open and that was where he knew he'd find the best way in. He slipped into the ship through an open doorway in the docking area. Smaller ships came and went over his head as he worked his way from place to place-crate to crate carefully remaining hidden. Noting the opening near the doors leading further into the ship, the shifter hesitated for a moment. Hiding as two pirates patrolled by with rifles in their hands as well as guns strapped in holsters on their hips, Saljin focused on their movements until he could move himself. When they passed by the crate he was hiding beside, he slipped down into the opening of the ductwork leading further into the ship. He just squeezed through between two of the bars. The ducts were more than large enough for him- several times his size, but he was quite certain that any true feline would prefer not to enter without a good reason. He needed to and began moving as well as marking his way out later. He would need to do so with as little trouble as possible to all their benefits. The interior of the venting system was not the cleanest. A few times he ran into spiderwebs that clung to the fur on his face and ears. Shaking his head, he rumbled a growl of frustration while shaking off the spiders. At various times the ducts branched off in other directions only to end in deadends. Those he would sit at and listen to see if anyone was nearby. Usually it was a pirate or two relaxing, smoking and talking quietly. He'd nearly walked away from one such vent when he had heard two talking about the previous day. Instead of moving forwards, he sat down to listen from his side of the vent. "I'm sure they won't know what hit them." He smirked to his friend as he lit up, blowing the match out afterwards. He leaned the chair back against the wall, two legs partially in the air. "Aljer said he heard they traded an outrageous sum of gems for the necklace the boss had been wearing and as much for that basket of old bones. It had to be alot for him to trade that when he'd been wearing it. But they was carrying even more that they didn't use. With them. He seemed to think the boss would send some out after them once the deal tomorrow was done and take down their ship out in space since less questions would be asked. Then we'd loot it and grab them also. Maybe add the ship if it's not too damaged afterwards. Some big guy, a pretty redhead, two other guys, and whatever the last one was. It wasn't said but that there was five of them." "Sounds like fun to me. Did he say how?" the other laughed. "Naw. Aljer didn't say, but he was getting the small ships ready. Seemed to think the boss was going to take them himself with the Squalldancer. Hey, I've an idea. Find that deck of cards. We'll play a game or two. Got four more hours yet of guard duty here. Ain't nothing happenin'." His chair came down with a thud. "I think they are in the desk over there behind you." Saljin growled faintly as he moved back further into the ductwork. So they thought to take back what had been sold. The others would need to know this. A bit of anger slipped down over him that they thought to take more. The opal and bones were now theirs. Soon this person would be also. Something would have to be done. He wouldn't allow them to endanger Jaster or Triq. They belonged to him and he would protect what was his. His? He suddenly stopped, staring in surprise. Jaster and Triq were not exactly his. Why was he feeling like this again? As if everything should be his. Shaking himself loose, Saljin nosed through the next set of cobwebs. Three tiny spiders scurried to the side. He watched them a moment, hoping no larger ones came his way. Who knew what would be found in the bowels of a pirate ship as they were far from the cleanest of places. The general information that Mycroft had given him on ships was indeed helping. At the time he had not known he would be doing this, but it was lucky that he'd been interested in it. He had a good idea of where the ducting led and how to get around to where they needed to go. Mentally he marked the directions he'd turned, but he also placed pawmarks every so far. It would show him the way out, and from the looks of things, very little traveled through the ducts. The cobwebs and dust were evidence of the lack. Twice he turned right and then left, but as he turned the next corner, he stopped coming face to face with a rat nearly as large as he was. He hissed, growling warning to it. The rat stared, its beady eyes noting the shiney dangling from the neck of the feline. Greed slipped through it and it snarled, revealing large yellowed teeth. Standing on its hind legs, it made as if to take the bauble from Saljin's neck. The shifter hissed warning again, fur standing upwards on his back as he stood his ground. A paw snapped out, claws extended, ripping and tearing as it hit the rodent across the shoulder. It stepped back but a bit of light made the gem sparkle again and the rat moved towards Saljin quickly. An instant later they tusseled, the feline ripping with all four paws as well as biting the creature to drive it off. Saljin fought as hard as he could. This shiney was his. Not the rodent's. His and he would rip the creature to shreds to keep it. A loud bang on the wall of the ductwork from outside, startled both feline and rodent. When they rolled free of each other, Saljin growled again, tail lashing from side to side as the rat squeaked indignantly at the feline. "Damn rats.." came the muffled voice. "We need to get rid of those buggers. I'm tired of them getting into the food stores." The rat took another look at the treasure it had thought to gain and then hunkering down, it hurried off limping and leaving a trail of blood. The shifter snarled again in warning. He noted its direction before proceding towards his own destination once more. He had a few clawmarks, but the teeth marks hurt where it had bitten him. Hopefully it was carrying no disease that would kill him before he returned. The paths through the venting took him some time to travel. He'd been in the kitchen, several bathrooms, storage lockers, berths, and even the captain's quarters before he finally found the place where the slaves were. They were sequestered well into the ship to prevent escape. For several long moments he waited simply watching the patrols go through. A few seemed to be working under the supervision of guards to repair machinery. Slipping through the bars, Saljin moved warily around the space. As he passed by one or two he glanced down at the stone. Nothing happened. The next large group nearby revealed nothing either. Sneaking around to the crates on the other side and to the last set of slaves, those working, he jumped upwards to the backside of a crate, claws digging into the wood. A man and a woman were both below him and there was no reaction. Carefully making his way to the other side of the stack, he suddenly stopped, above the head of a man. Noting the reaction from the gem, he glanced down again, taking in the man's features. This could be the one they were looking for. The gem had not reacted to anyone else. "Alright that's enough." one of the guards nearby suddenly said. "Get back over there." "Why don't you just let us go?" the man on the other side stated. "We're engineers. Not slaves and definitely not pirates." The guard lashed out, hitting the fellow in the jaw. He crumbled, dropping to his knees as he held his face in pain. "You should be glad we didn't kill you. Now get up and get over there with the others and stop your yammering." Engineers? He glanced down at the man just below him, taking in the clothing. It was definitely a uniform of some sort, but was he an engineer. Moving a bit closer, he caught sight of something on the sleeve. It was an insignia patch of some sort. At first he could not see it clearly, but then the fellow straightened his arm a bit as he worked. The blue and black patch clearly had "Athenia" written at the top with "Engineering" beneath. The rest was simply decorative edging. Having what he needed after glancing at the fellow's face to get a clear view of him, Saljin jumped down moving back for the ducting unaware the guard was aiming at him. The second guard stopped him, shaking his head as he put his hand on the gun. Neither noted the gem around his neck. "It's a cat. It'll take care of the rats in the ducts. Let it alone. We could use a few less rodents on the ship." He watched silently as the feline disappeared inside. "I suppose you are right." he agreed, but watched silently for a moment. "The fewer of them, the better for us." Saljin backtracked his way out of the ship. Just before exiting, he ran into another rat. It was smaller and he killed it. Picking it up in his mouth though that was the last thing he wanted to do, he carried it out into the docking area with him. It would not only hide the gem, but it would also give the illusion that he was indeed only a feline. Two pirates sitting on crates nearby watched him exit the shaft. One smirked shaking his head. "Well, that's one less rat on the ship. Maybe we should talk the boss into getting a few to keep on the ship. I bet the rat infestation would lessen." The second stared at the cat a moment, then nodded, but a smirk suddenly appeared. "Infestation? Isn't that an awfully big word for you? You've been around those slaves too much." "Oh shut up." the first muttered as Saljin turned the corner. Dropping the rat, he quickly moved back to where he knew Cinder and Jaster were waiting with a disgusting taste in his mouth. She'd not like what he overheard, but at least they had the information they needed. Jaster and Triq watched silently as Saljin began to move away from the ship. They'd been there some time. Once he had to tell Pretzel to shut up and the creature had been silent the entire time. A threat of sealing him in a dark cavern somewhere alone had shut the creature up entirely. Getting to his feet when Saljin arrived at his feet, Jaster removed the necklace, putting it into a hidden inside pocket.
"Run into any trouble?" he asked watching the shifter closely. "I need to talk to Cinder immediately, Jaster. I got bit by a rat, but that's not what the problem is. I don't want to discuss it here thought." Saljin replied. "Let's go." Jaster and Triq followed him from the area they'd hidden in and towards the ship. Saljin obviously was not happy with what he knew. Now to tell the others. Hopefully they'd still be able to acquire this person and get out unscathed. But he wasn't counting on it.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:09 am
After a bit of scouting by the cat...
08.13.08 Joint
Info given about Faran and upcoming pirate attack Cinderfae  Cinder paced the plank from the ship in irritation, they had been gone too long she thought to herself. Saljin, Jaster, and Triq had left to do the bit of scouting they needed to find the last piece that it was said Panacea was after; that this piece was a human was just another bit into the whole scheme of things. Since the trio had left Cinder had been aggrevated. She couldn't quite put her finger on what it was or rather she didn't want to. Stop pacing, the clicking of your boots is starting to even irritate me, Karaskis voice came through to Cinder. The pilot paused and let a sigh out. They'll be able to do it, just give yourself some room to breath.It's not that I don't think they can, it's... Cinder cut off glaring ahead at the darkness as if daring it to keep her comrades out longer. It's just what? Karaskis paused sensing that there was more, and really as they waited prodding her guardian seemed to be the thing to do. Cinder stayed stubborn another moment, I don't like the idea of leaving others to do things for me.This wouldn't have anything to do with that co-pilot you lost to the Cygens would it? Karaskis voice was lazy but Cinder still almost growled hearing the suggestion. Before Cinder could be prodded more however shapes were seen in the dark. Squinting slightly she could make out the outlines of the trio, turning she called inward so that Kalfyra and Eddard who had also been waiting could hear, "they're back!"Then Cinder stepped out onto the ramp more waiting for them to hurry up it keeping an eye on the area behind them in case there turned out to be trouble. Eftemie  Saljin, Jaster, and Triq hurried towards the ship. It was dark out but had not been so very long. The worst on the planet would just now be rising and making their way out to inflict pain and misery on others. The shifter walked onto the ship first, shaking his arm that had been bitten. The rodent's teeth had been sharp. He doubted it would live long. The smell of blood would bring the others and they'd finish him off quickly. The thought of blood caused Saljin to smirk slightly, but then he turned to watch as the others entered the ship. "First I got bitten by a rat." he said, holding out his arm. "I did as much damage to it, but hopefully it had no diseases. Secondly, I found the person." Giving a quick description of hair, eyes, and features, he added, "He was working on something and seems to be an engineer. His patch was from the Athenia and it said engineering on it, though I couldn't tell you his name or what his rank was. But I'm sure it was him, the necklace reacted to him and it did noone else on the entire ship. And lastly... "
"You got bitten?!" the aoide blinked in surprise. "Why didn't you tell me? I..."Jaster had taken the opal out of his pocket and handed it to Cinder. "Triq, let him finish." Shaking his head, he didn't realize his voice had been sharper than normal. Almost as if angry.
"I'm sorry! I.. Forgive me!" she apologized, bowing to Jaster.
"I told you to stop that." Jaster growled in sudden irritation. "Now let him finish." His voice was far too sharp to her ears and she backed up, stumbling against Saljin who raised an eyebrow at him. Jaster flinched, gritting his teeth. "Now what..? Just finish, Saljin." Now his voice sounded exasperated at himself. The shifter nodded, patting Excentrique's shoulder. "I overheard a conversation when I was in the venting. I thought at first it was just two pirates talking until they mentioned us. They are planning to let us buy our slaves and get off the planet, but once in space, they plan to come after us and take it all back as well as what we have and us. So what do we do? They still have twelve ships and there's no way this ship can handle that." Xanil Eddard awaited in his quarters, but at the sound of everyone's voices in the airlock, Eddard got up and went to hear the latest the news. He wasn't surprised to learn that the pirates had plans for them and that they would take place off the planet. He was no space man, but he had tangled with sea pirates a time or too and such thugs seldom liked to attack at port. He looked to Cinder, "You have the most experience with space combat and ships, and the vessel in our possession is a solitary pirate ship, do we not have the ability to out run them, camouflage ourselves, or anything along the lines of out maneuvering them?" The notion had probably been explored by her, but he still had to ask. Other ideas came to mind. Maybe they could coax the pirate's enemies into a treaty and maybe out flank the pirates. On another note, maybe they could swap ships and use this one as a decoy, but he brushed the idea aside realizing that the ship wasn't Cinder's and that they were responsible for its return. Still the greater good hung in the balance and that idea seemed to have the least sacrifice in lives. Perhaps they could offer to buy more slaves on the next day and after securing the human and the bones on the ship, risk a confrontation on the ground. If they could cut the head off the snake, it might not know when and who to strike. Such an act would require a sacrifice. He would step into that role if it was the only way. Cinderfae Cinder sighed faintly listening to Saljin, that response by the pirates was not one that she hadn't seen coming the question was what to do about it. Cinder rolled her shoulder slightly and glanced over to Saljin, "you got bitten...by a rat. Lets keep talking but you are coming to the medical center. No telling what sort of disease you might have picked up if you aren't treated." Cinder lead the way her mind moving along as she did. "Right, well..." she glanced toward Eddard. "Even not being familiar with space twelve against one is an awful lot. We wouldn't be able to take them in a full on assault...we might not be able to even take them using not so honorable methods. This thing does have a bit of speed on it but it isn't built for battle. The actual weapon system on the ship...is pretty lacking. They have also probably noted this as well."Palming the plate into the medical bay Cinder walked ahead of the others, gesturing Saljin over to a nearby table to sit. "Now, you saw the man that the pendant indicated; he was a slave right?" Cinder hoped their assumption had been correct because if he wasn't being kept as a slave well getting this mystery person off the ship was going to be much harder then they had anticipated and likely harder then they could manage. Cinder frowned in thought as she started digging through the medical bay for what she would need to give Saljin a shot. Likely one of the vaccinations that would hit a wide variety of possible diseases. Quirking a brow she finally chose a tube that seemed to cover most the more common local diseases. "As for the pirates...I do have something in mind." She glanced to Eddard as she spoke waiting for Saljin to answer her before going on. Eftemie Saljin followed her to the medical center and then sat down where she indicated. "Yes, he was a slave. They had them working on some machinery. I was standing on a crate above his head. I don't think he understood I was there. I was trying to remain hidden. A guard was standing near them the entire time.One of those with him was arguing and got hit for his trouble. I saw him very clearly." Triq was standing nearby but she said nothing. A furtive glance at Jaster a time or two but her lips remained unmoving. Pretzel snickered, but he himself said nothing either. Jaster sat down listening to what was said. They were at a big disadvantage unless they figured out to even the odds a bit more. Xanil "Well, this is your domain of operation, I trust your judgement." he said to Cinder as he looked for a suitable place to stand within the medical bay that would put him out of the way. He was certain that the shifter was fine but one could never be too careful. He could feel Eid in him, brooding, but the thoughts and plans were kept from mingling with his own consciousness. He began to wonder if he could do the same, somehow prevent Eid from knowing what was going on. He disregarded this idea for Eid had already learned how to break down his spirit spell which was already considerably weaker and further more he was by far not a mentalist. Cinderfae Putting together a pressure syringe Cinder turned and made her way over to where Saljin was sitting, not bothering to ask him to pull up his sleeve she looked down over the area where he had been bitten. "Well we can't beat them. But lucky for us they have enemies on planet. Now there is a reason those enemies aren't attacking or at least making things difficult. They don't feel they'll have the upper hand." Glancing up to Saljin a moment Cinder watched him and then hit the release on the syringe a brief sting as the medication was shot into him. Nodding slightly to her patient she added, "that should cover most the local stuff. You start feeling ill or getting spots or something you let me know."Tossing the medical tool to the side Cinder turned to look at the others, "the pirates are effected by what has started at the Pantheon as well. Likely why they were arguing in front of the slaves. Which means they aren't on the top of their game either. So..." Cinder tapped her fingers over the counter a moment looking thoughtful. "I bet I could make it interesting to try to get their flagship running again." Glancing to Eddard and then the rest a moment, "sabotage. Take their flagship down a bit and then tip their enemies off. All twelve ships aren't housed on planet which might make it appealing to them. Eddard, you happen to have any idea how to get ahold of this group...those merchants."Eftemie Saljin nodded, flinching slightly from the sting. The bite had not been deep, but it had broken the skin. Only a bit of dried blood caked around it now. He definitely did not like shots though. Triq said nothing, but she'd moved to get some alcohol to clean the wound out. Then she put a sticky bandage over it after pulling one from the drawer. She still glanced at Jaster furtively, angrily, but she remained silent. Pretzel was smirking at her and she ignored him also. Jaster frowned thoughtfully. "It might make them think twice and if they had to call their others in to help them, it would give us the necessary time to return with what we have. We may have to deal with them later, but that's the breaks." He almost relished the thought of a fight.Beware the dogs of War. Taj questioned softly. He blinked in sudden surprise, a faint shiver running through him. Dogs of War? War? He'd been angry and lashing out for no real reason at Triq. Jaster thought back over the things he'd felt. Tiredness. Jealousy. Lust. Miserliness during the bartering with the pirates. He suddenly sighed. "Something of note... We've been tired, jealous, lusty, greedy, and now... I think I know what is happening. War is the influence. I think this has to do with the end of days. We might want Mycroft to access what he knows and see what is coming next so we know how to deal with it. I owe you an apology, Excentrique. I apologize for how I acted earlier."Xanil Eddard nodded, "The merchants shouldn't be too difficult to arrange some sort of meeting providing we act fast enough. THe Cudgel on the other hand are probably far more elusive and if they are as rooted as they are, its possible they already know that we've had deals with pirates and could consider us enemies. Then again, I know how to make a point with their lot, it'd only involve one of them sustaining injuries from the get go." He pondered the idea of a direct confrontation with Tybalt. It seemed more and more delicious with each passing moment. He was a team player after all so he would follow the plan, he would just have to hope that things down here would get out of hand after the cargo was secured. He thought back on what little he knew about the Naruni. From what he gathered, contracted services wasn't the only thing they dealt in. He had heard from one of his many possible fraudulent sources that the Naruni had very advanced technology that they sold. Unfortunately, their goods were quite pricey and usually sold to warring worlds who had an abundance of wealth or resources that could be used to purchase such items in mass. "Cinder, you should come with me. They might have some things they are willing to sell to us that are far superior to the equipment we currently carry. I myself wouldn't know and would need a trained eye to spot improvements. Maybe even improvements for this ship like a shielding device or something that increases our speed." Cinderfae Glancing toward Jaster Cinder nodded slightly, he seemed to have some sort of point things did seem to be going along some sort of strange pattern. She wondered if Erzulie had found anything yet... "Right now all we need is an escape route, so giving them a distraction will be enough." Cinder frowned slightly in thought the way things had been going they had been getting more and more hectic that may work in their favor as well; hopefully keeping the pirates on their toes. Cinder then glanced to Eddard, "hrm, alright if you know where to meet the contact I can go with you if you like. But I warn you now I doubt that they will be able to offer anything that would upgrade the ship with any amount of speed. Most ship upgrades take time...time we don't seem to have. But I'd be willing to go with you, no harm in that and might be able to get some sort of deal set up."Sighing somewhat tiredly Cinder looked to the door of the medical area, "Eddard if we are going to meet with them before we meet with the pirates we best do it tonight. And then I'll see about the ship and making sure it doesn't go anywhere. Jaster I'm going to need a hand held device with Mycroft or at least a ghost system of him in it. If you could get that set up in the pilot's area of the ship while I change that would help a lot." Cinder leaned and gave Jaster a light kiss on the brow before standing and moving toward the door, "Eddard, I'll meet you out by the plank. Jaster...your group has already been out tonight and you should stay and give Arithon some back up watching over what we already have in case there is trouble."((likely only need one more post from each after this, Xanil we can do the contact thing in another thread and I'll do a solo for the sabotage...and then we can get the thread for buying Faran up)) Eftemie
"Apology accepted." Triq stated still watching him. She was not sure what he'd said made sense but he seemed to be as he had been when first meeting him. She'd let it go. Jaster nodded, a faint smile on his face at the kiss. He did not mind remaining behind in truth. There were things he needed to think about and this would give him the time to do so. "I can do that, Cinder." Moving towards the pilot's part of the ship, he said to Mycroft. "Cinder needs a hand held unit with a ghost system of you in it. Tell me what I need to download one." When this had begun, he and Saljin had known only a little about computers and only those in the libraries. Now both were actually getting proficient at the terminology as much as the hardware. There was still alot to learn for both of them though. Saljin glanced at Triq a moment. "Go see if Jaster needs some help. I'm going to go clean up a bit."
"After I just put a clean dry bandage on that bite, you are going to get it wet?" she growled faintly. "Well, then you can just put another one on." he smirked, already moving down the hallway and leaving her to follow Jaster. Xanil Eddard nodded and left the room with a wave. "Shouldn't be gone too long. I think these Naruni are fairly formal. Hopefully their business hours are anytime."
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:10 am
Dark Days
08.10.08 Joint with Talencia
This is a backtrack during the 3-4 days trapped in the pantheon Talencia  Oh how easy it was to drift into a deep and dark despair! He woke with the dire events heavy upon his heart, dragging him towards a state of numb and sullen depression. He bit his lip and stared up at the ceiling as if it alone could hold the answers... though clearly it never would.
But as he kept his agonized gaze upon the unhelpful surface above the bed, something completely random and unexpected happened. A brightly plumed head suddenly popped into his vision, peering at him upside down and chirruping questioningly. After a stunned moment of surprise, memories of the night before came flooding back. Tangent.
"Hello there," he murmured, softly enough that his throat did not protest. He gently rubbed the top of the bright green head, then beginning to rub his eyes and yawn in a more normal waking fashion. He reached to disentangle the small bird-like creature from his thick mop of hair before he sat up and cradled Tangent close. "How are you this morning?"
It was fairly obvious that he wasn't going to answer, but speaking to the little thing helped him feel more normal somehow, and less frighteningly alone. He had come to appreciate the constant companionship of his host, even when she was a quiet nub of being within him. She still had been there. Now she was not. Shoving aside the ache this thought caused, Arctang rose with Tangent in one hand. "C'mon, let's find something to eat, hmm?"
His rumpled and dirty clothing was uncomfortable, nevermind the holes made by the shards of stained glass. He adjusted where he could and grumbled over the lacey skirt edge. He needed to fix his physical gender soon, or he was likely to break his promise to Rairne. Feeling somewhat grouchy but molified by the sweet trilling of his new companion, Arc padded barefoot out into the hall and down to the kitchen. Who knew what time it was, or how long he'd slept. All he knew is that his very mortal stomach demanded sustenance.Eftemie Jaster glanced over at Saljin as he shoved bright coppery hair from his face. "I want to check on him and see if he's alright. And Kishara or so she is called." Gaia. Mother of all. The bright bits of colored glass from the window were being swept up into a pile. Jaster pushed with the broom while the shifter leaned over scooping up with the dustpan. There was a lot of glass and someone needed to clean it up. The wall had come down but there was a great chasm left outside. Saljin could fly over it, but Jaster could not. The shifter had offereed his services  "We'll do that after we are finished here, Jaster." Saljin glanced up at Jaster's face. He was pale again and the shifter knew the youth was tired. Fusing the stone had pushed him beyond his limits in ways Jaster and Taj were refusing to acknowledge. Both seemed driven by something only they could see. Just as the need to be here had shoved them all into arriving during trouble. Taj had said little since fusing with Jaster. He'd spoken when needed, but displayed his emotions or an image now and again. It seemed easier for him somehow to convey what was needed in such a way. Glancing upwards at the sound of footsteps, Jaster and Saljin both straightened up. A smile of welcome appeared beneath green eyes. "I was planning to visit you later. To see how you were. Are you feeling better?"Taj pushed in amusement from behind the jade surface. A puzzle of numbers walks forth."Numbers?" His voice changed again, and it was Taj speaking this time but as much as he was. Together for a brief instant, yet neither. His eyes blinked for a moment, unfocused in sudden confusion but then returned to watch the other. "There is some hot tea made in the pot there on the counter. We are... I'm Jaster, host to Tajnevaki. This is Saljin."Talencia The sound of tinkling glass made him look up as he descended the stairs. Two worked there with broom and dustpan. He recognized one from his entrance when Gianfar had spoken to them the day before. The other... the other he had no clue about. He nodded when greeted and continued down the stairs, not trusting his voice to successfully carry that far. But when addressed questioningly by his domain, he halted his trek towards the kitchen and looked more intently at the two. "Yes?" he replied softly.
The small feathered creature in his hand chirruped questioningly in the same tone, which made him smile inwardly. He gently reached to settle Tangent on his shoulder, making sure he could balance on three legs before letting go. The little thing scooted over to lean against his ear and groom his temples with his beak. Thus reassured, he approached the two.
He caught himself just before a semi-formal bow at the introduction, reminding himself of his friend's precarious perch on his shoulder. "Ah, the secretive one! Greetings, Jaster and Taj. I am Arctang, our Master's Pie Bird." The title elicited a twist of a wry smile. It was an odd title, to be sure, but their Master knew best. The reminder of his title made his wings ache suddenly. That was one area he hadn't managed to get tended to yet and would need help with. He knew he'd lost some feathers and that there were now some scabs along the short length of his wings, but he simply had no way to examine the damage himself.
"I think I'll take you up on the tea," he murmured, unconciously touching a hand to his throat. It was coming to be a gesture of habit, a movement of remembrance of what had been done that terrible day. "My throat is still quite raw." He moved away from them, but when he reached the kitchen, he removed two cups and held them up inquiringly towards the men. It was too far for him to speak softly, but his question was clear. Eftemie "Cardinal Conundrum, ever cryptic, ever concise." Taj greeted in amusement at the discussion of titles. Somehow he knew Arctang needed the slight distraction. A faint feeling of familiarity- deja vu slid over both he and Jaster. "Yes, thank you." Jaster nodded as he moved to place the broom back in the closet. Washing his hands in the nearby sink, he grabbed a towel to dry off as he leaned back against the counter. "I think it will be a time yet before we can leave here. So we thought some cleanup was in order."
"I've been to the other side, but I saw noone about early this morning. I've offered my services to those who have a need to have messages carried. With the wall down, I can fly across the chasm to wherever needed." Saljin nodded to the indication of tea. "If you have any messages you want to get to someone, give me directions and I'll be happy to track down the person for you."
Jaster smiled and then explained as he moved to the counter for his tea. "He's a shifter. A curse by someone we avoid. He was the panther." Talencia The revelation that the wall was gone made him start, nearly spilling the tea he was pouring into three cups. His eyes darted to the windows, including the one he painfully remembered flying through backwards. Light was streaming in, but Jaster had said they couldn't leave. "Why can't we leave if the wall is gone?" he asked, forgetting to speak softly and wincing as his voice rasped harshly. He needed that tea. He finished pouring and handed the cups out before taking a sip of his own. It needed something. He began to peek into cabinets as Jaster's companion spoke about taking messages. His sister flitted through his mind, but he was still puzzling over why he would not be able to go himself.
He found what he was looking for and pulled out an oddly shaped, squishy container. It was shaped like a smiling bear, and had honey inside it. After a first futile attempt to get it out without taking off the cap, he finally managed to squeeze a goodly portion into his cup. After a good stir and another sip, he sighed in relief. The old remedy was still quite as effective as it had been ages ago.
It was then that he paused and tried to place Jaster's rather cryptic reference to Saljin. He'd said 'the panther' as if it should be obvious. He frowned faintly, a flicker of memory from the day before flashing behind his eyes. He shook his head, unwilling yet to dwell on what all had happened, and simply accepted that he must have seen the shapeshifter in another form the day before.
A chittering in his ear and a sharp n** to his lobe reminded him of the tiny hungry beast. He chuckled silently and went back to the cupboards to find something for the small creature to eat. "Little stomachs before godly throats," he murmured in good humor. Somehow he couldn't see himself ever being irritated with the neon critter. Eftemie Jaster watched him intently a moment. So much familiarity was there within Taj that he began to suspect that Taj and Arc had once been close. Friends even. It was amusement as much as a deep sense of warmth where the numbers god was concerned. He frowned slightly when he heard the question. "Your own wound left a bit of void that lasted for a time. No less the wall outside. There is a chasm of... nothingness there, surrounding this building. There is no bottom to it. Those with strong enough wings could fly over it, but others cannot cross. We are an island. For lack of a better word." A glance towards the window once more and then he sighed. "I'm unsure of a solution unless it is something that Gaia can repair once she is a bit more healed herself."Saljin moved to the cupboard nearby, filling a plate with cookies, crackers, and some sweet breads he had found earlier. They seemed to have supplies enough for everyone. He set the plate in the center of the counter indicating to Arc and Jaster that they should eat something.
"I think it will be several days before that is fixed. That's why I offered the option of flying messages. Getting information could at least be continued, so that we know what happened to those outside as well as others knowing what we are doing here." Sitting down, he added, "A slim option is better than none."Talencia Arctang stopped his search and put a hand conciously to his neck, paling visibly. What had injured him had made a bottomless chasm outside? The full extent of the damage such could have done to his flesh suddenly dawned on him, and he flashed his astonished gaze to Jaster's. How in the world had he been spared such a fate? He couldn't supress a horrified shudder and the raising of goosebumps all along his arms. Talk about hair-raising.
Having been fruitless in finding food for his small companion, the young god was grateful to see that Saljin had knowledge of something there that the little wingless bird might like. he snagged some of each kind and set them on a plate. The plate and Tangent were then transferred to the counter, where the critter devoured every bit of what was presented. Musing, Arc snagged a bit of sweetbread for himself, sipping his tea between bites.
After eating enough to settle his stomach, he responded to the shapeshifter. "I do wish I could get ahold of my sister, but I don't know where she is, so that's hardly any help." He gave a wry smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. He knew Cosine was safe, or his link to her would have informed him differently. Even so, being apart from her in this time of crisis was terribly difficult on him. He still had the urge to keep her close and under careful watch, so that he could protect her. However, the sturdiness and practicality of the little troll woman had proved to him that though females were the fairer sex, they werne't necessarily the weaker. She had dealt better with the situation the day before than he had. He bit his lip as regret rose like bile in his throat. Resolutely, he shoved away thoughts of yesterday.
"Who is Gaia? The one who...," he trailed off as more images of the day before flashed in his mind and he squeezed his pale eyes shut, banishing once more the events he'd witnessed. "Nevermind." Carefully all this time he'd avoided looking towards the throne and the pod that had been his Master. Sometime he'd be able to deal with all this, but it was too new, too raw. He bit his lip again and buried one hand in his hair, practically gripping it as if to hold his head on. New topic, new topic, new topic...
"Tajnevaki is a name I remember," he suddenly commented, latching onto the last pleasant thing. "We were friends, I think," he continued, nibbling on a cookie this time, his voice growing less hoarse as he ate and drank. "I can't remember exact details of our time before, when all were alive and well." Reflectively he finished the cookie and hopped up to sit on the counter, grimacing faintly as his odd clothing pulled again in all the wrong places. He looked again at Jaster, thinking to himself that he could use a friend again about now. "Does he remember me?" Eftemie Before Jaster could answer Arctang's question, Taj pushed forwards more. "No lapse of time or distance of place can lessen the friendship of those who are truly persuaded of each other's worth." With a wide grin and a true warmth in his eyes, he winked at Arc before allowing Jaster to have control again. A true sensation of friendship and comraderie slipped over both Jaster and Taj. During the past day or so, Jaster had little time to think but it had not occurred to him until now that Taj may have had godly friends and acquaintances that he still wanted. Needed. But it had occurred to him about Saljin's presence afterwards. It took him only an instant to make the choice. Friendships would remain from either side as they would soon enough be one. Perhaps they should express that while both were there. "I would say he remembers you, Arc. He knew who you were upon seeing you today. His sister is here also. Jenga. Betha is her host I've discovered." Jaster watched the godling for a long moment, a ghost of a smile on his face. Not entirely his. There was something that he and Taj needed to tell not just Arc but Saljin too. There had been no discussion between the god and host, but simply knowing that it was what both wanted to happen. "Taj and I are slowly becoming one. It's what he and I both wanted in this. But friendship is important to both of us. Friends old or new will remain." Jaster sipped his tea before reaching for a cookie to munch upon. He could tell that Arc was bothered by what had happened during that time that Samyaza had been there. Saljin glanced over at both gods, smiling faintly. Godly friends who had found one another again already. But then he understood he was included in the meaning. His smile widened. He'd already suspected it would be so between he and Taj. Jaster fit the god for a reason and there were times, like now, when that sameness was very prevalent. He was quite certain the three of them would be friends still.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:11 am
Whorls Of Thought
08.20.08 Solo
Jaster's thoughts about Destruction and the situation A smirk slid across his face when Saljin and Triq vanished. He had been expecting it and he was quite certain that the shifter had left her an invitation of some sort. They fought as much as they watched one another. Moving towards the game room, he grabbed two pistols off the rack. Something was still bothering him and he wanted to do something to try to work some of the stress out. Thinking that shooting something would give him the mindless blankness he desired at that moment, he reset the limits higher than last time he'd been there. If nothing else it would improve his aim and reactionary speed. For nearly a half hour he practiced, missing some, hitting others before he finally stopped with a deep sigh. No matter what he did, the distraction came back firmly to grab hold of him, clawing its way into sight. It tangled him up and when he missed five targets in a row, he finally shut the game off, sitting down at the table nearby. "What is wrong with me?" he grumbled faintly. Remorse is as the heart in which it grows; If that be gentle, it drops balmy dews Of true repentance; but if proud and gloomy, It is the poison tree, that pierced to the inmost, Weeps only tears of poison.1 Taj had spoken more in that moment than he'd done the entire time since Jaster had received him. Jaster sighed after the momentary shock wore off. He knew that was what was bothering him. It had all along. You feel it too? I was so rude that day. But I was so looking forwards to seeing him again. I thought about him the entire time we traveled to the Pantheon. No less than I. Duties I had to sovereign kings. Faded to death all but he. Taj replied softly, guilt slipping down over him. He did not remembering it all, but he knew enough or he'd not feel this way. His strength had failed him then as surely as he was failing again. I just keep thinking about how long he was alone, Taj. And that he was there to greet me that day. Waiting on me. Not just for you. I hurt him with my words. I still remember his expression. I failed him in some way. But I keep thinking about what he said. Jaster frowned thoughtfully, looking back to that day. He said... "There were many names, some more recent then others. They are unwriting."Unwriting? What did he mean by that?For a long moment, Tajne was silent. Unwritten words are never formed. His touch was gentle, featherlight and wispy. He said unwriting.. not unwritten. There's a difference. Unwritten means they never were. Unwriting means... Jaster hesitated suddenly scowling intensely. Was he losing his names? Why? How? An intense sense of trepidation slipped down over Jaster. He was Creation and Destruction and much depended upon him. Jaster had understood that easily when so many were ready to fight Samyaza for him. How does a name unwrite? he mused softly as he got to his feet. Pacing the floor sometimes helped him think. What would the ways be that someone would lose their name? Marriage often changed a name, but the name was still there, though he supposed it could be considered an unwriting since it was no longer theirs to use. People changed their names legally in courts all the time. Some gave up their names for titles instead. But these were the average people that walked down the street everyday. Big D was not the average person. He was a god. How did a god find his names unwriting? Did he not have the power to do as he wished? He had not faded but waited upon them. He was there when each one's host found their way to the stone that had chosen them. Reveal the form, give it a name, power over it you will gain. Hide the line, unwrite its name, fade to black. Taj replied even softer, but it was not with a voice that could be heard except by Jaster. Power in names? He blinked, repeating. How did a god's name fade? With time? Had Destruction been alone too long? That could not be entirely it. There were other gods there about him. The big green guy, Arctang. Gianfar. Others. So if it was not that loneliness and pain of absence, then what was it? He should have power to fight what had been done. Shouldn't he? He had aoide like Jaster had. Didn't he? How could they serve and follow Jaster and not he when he was more? Follow? He gasped, a light gleaming in the dark, brilliant as it revealed what he was attempting to puzzle free of its containment. Followers. Mankind did not believe in gods. He had been skeptical himself, not willing to believe what Destruction had said to him that day. If none knew his name, to call forth in times of trouble- of praise, then his name might soon cease to exist. If his names were unwriting, then they were being forgotten. Forgotten. Fade to black. If the Twin Crown- Creation and Destruction faded, then what whould hold them all together? Jaster suddenly felt more ill than he'd felt in his entire life. Was this what Aristigeiton represented? Someone who loved unconditionally? Someone who thought only of the Twin Crown no matter what others wanted? Someone who needed nothing more than to sit with him and listen to what he had to say? The youth now suspected what this was truly about. Some would have said that it was the need for a lover in the sense that sex was the only aspect of their relationship. This was not about sex. It was about companionship, love, friendship, adoration, loneliness, affection, and faith. Undying, unblemished faith. That was what Ari represented to both aspects. It was why he was said to balance the Twin Crowns. The questions began to appear one after another. If the other gods were returning, did they understand how alone he had been? Had they tried to fill his needs? Had they loved him enough to sit at his feet and listen to him? Had they cared enough to ask what he was doing and let him enjoy telling them? Even he had tossed skepticism back into Destruction's face. Was this about love and faith to prove to him that his care, love, and sacrifice had been noted, tallied, and returned to him a hundredfold? A brooding silence swept over Jaster and Tajnevaki as they began to see some of what had been hidden in those few words that they'd had with Destruction. Both flinched for different reasonings. Jaster for his desbelief and rudeness. Tajne for his lack of duty to the Twin Crown and fading so long ago. We have to fix this, Taj. No matter what it takes. He needs us perhaps more than we need each other.Reflecting back over what he knew and the information he'd gotten by various people, he wondered if there was someplace to find some of this information. Of course there was. A library. It had been alluded to that one was at the Pantheon. He'd not gone to look at it. And where he was there was none on the ship. But as he thought about it, there was perhaps another source that could give him what he needed. Of course he needed to think about what questions to ask. The right one were important and he had little time to waste. When he was certain, he would find Mycroft and Cinder and see what Karaskis and the UI knew about the entirety of things he knew. For now it was all that he could do. 1.Quotation by Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:12 am
Intergalactic Service Industry
08.14.08 Joint with Cinderfae & Xanil
Jaster enters on page 2 of the rp.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:13 am
At The Inn
08.21.08 Joint with Xanil & Cinder
New clothes for Eddard and some wood carving for Jaster
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:14 am
Dealings & Betrayals
08.23.08 Joint with Cinderfae, Ithiltari, Xanil
Buying Faran & back to Pantheon
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:17 am
Carving 101
08.23.08 Solo
Cinder's heart Opening the package that contained the items he wanted, Jaster first spread them around him on the workroom table. He'd found a quiet space in the back of the ship and figured noone would disturb him there. Saljin knew where he was but he'd promised not to tell unless Jaster was needed. Noone would miss him a few hours. At least he hoped that's all it would take. His eyes surveyed the items laid out before him. To the right lay the two pieces of intensely bright red wood. Below them lay a chisel, a curved shaper of some sort - or so he assumed, and four stacks of various textures of sandpaper. The fellow had been kind enough to give him five of each type and Jaster was quite certain he would use them all before he was done. To the left, a vise was attached to the table and a handsaw lay beside it. At the top of his work area, he had shoved the cloth and linseed oil. Finding a handsaw of some sort in the toolbox was a relief to him. He'd wondered as he held the wood how he was ever going to carve it. The vise on the table made it even easier once the piece was sketched into the block he had separated. The idea he wanted to bring to life was a simple heart puffed to give it a more rounded shape. A heart made of Redheart was a simple idea, but the thoughts and work that went into doing something that one had never done were far more complex. The emotions attached were far more entwined with the heart and mind of the creator than they would be by the receiver. The simplest of shapes yet the most fragile and easily broken, and Jaster placed much of himself into view as he began to work on a gift for another.
"Redheart wood ranges from pale to dark red and is said to deepen in color with age. The grain is straight and tight, but has a tendency to burn if machined. Freshly cut material has a bright red hue to it. But it is said to fade quickly in sunlight and if a UV coating was added, the color will remain. Linseed oil will naturally preserve with minor discoloration. I understand the reasoning for the oil now. It will protect it. I'll make sure she understands to keep it in a box. Or perhaps I'll make her one." He chuckled amused at the thought of making something even more complicated when he had just begun the first. As he read this information the fellow had included in the booklet, Jaster suspected the man was new at carving it himself and had simply accommodated a customer. He continured reading onward, trying to learn how he should do this. He had the pattern set and it said to carve it into a block shape. From there he could shave shaping it as he needed. With the wood in the vise below where he needed, Jaster began working on the edges, shaving a little at a time. The first time he pushed the carving knife against the wood, he had hardly dented it.
"I guess it won't break." he muttered, pushing a bit harder the second time. A clean shaving curled upwards as he continued moving along the edge. Stroke after stroke, he continued shaving until he was down to the line on the side he was working on. The block of wood was still chopped and unlike what he wanted to make but it was definitely heart-shaped on one side. With care he turned the blade across the redheart, caressing and smoothing it as he fashioned what he knew was within. Constantly he stopped to wipe the crumbs away to prevent their friction against the piece he wanted to preserve. When the shavings were gone and the shape was what he wanted, he smiled just watching it. The beads of sweat went unnoticed as they dropped to mingle with the chips on the floor. This was something he had felt inclined to do. He tried not to push too hard though anxiety ran rampant pushing him forwards. Twice he stopped to stare at it before deciding to take more off or to change the curve faintly. An hour turned into two. Two became three. Then he stopped. He never noticed, forgetting all but what he was doing. He slipped to the front leaving things where they lay. Checking on the ship, on Cinder, on the others, he spoke quietly to Saljin for several long moments. Those with them appeared far more relaxed and at ease than they had been with the pirates. The old engineer was looking around though Triq was keeping an eye on him. He struck up a conversation with her, smiling as they spoke and Jaster smiled to see she was wearing the jacket that Saljin had bought her. The youngest woman was watching Saljin though she was sitting and pretending to read a book. Satisfied he returned to the back room, eyes sweeping across what he had accomplished earlier. The heart was nearly complete with the striations of wood clearly seen. The red shape was pale, dusty at the moment, but that was because it needed polished and made to shine. Picking up the carving tool again, he began to separate it from the block the vise still held. Catching it in his hand when it came free, he smiled, turning it various directions to appraise his work. It was far from perfect but it would be beautiful. After drilling the hole where he wanted it to be, Jaster picked up the sandpaper, the heaviest coarseness and began to smooth it down. It took a little time to do so, but as it progressed, he switched to the lighter roughnesses until he was using the extra fine to smooth it fine as silk. Wiping the last bit of dust from it, he tried to make sure that there were no splinters left behind. The oil he poured into a clean cloth, caressing it in circles as he rubbed the linseed into the surface. It drank it thirstily, slowly revealing the true nature of the wood. A shine began to show but then receded into the depths. But he never stopped. More oil. More polishing until it continued to shine, burnished to a warm satiny glow. Finally satisfied, he slid it onto the cording. The necklace appeared from a pocket, and he tied it looping it between the two center beads and letting it dangle slightly below. Holding it up in the light, he grinned simply admiring it. She would love it, but the secret was that a part of himself had been included. She would simply think it was made that way. Now to clean up his mess. Carving 101 had been passed.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:18 am
Shooting Stars
08.22.08 Joint with Cinder
Eftemie They were on their way back. With all the items that another had gone after. He was brooding again and he knew it. It should be the farthest thing from his mind especially with Cinder sleeping next to him. Glancing back at Cinder a moment, a faint smile appeared as he saw she was still sleeping peacefully. Moving towards his pack he pulled out the dress he'd gotten for her. The necklace was done also, a small puffed heart made of the redheart wood now hung from the strand of glass beads. Carefully he laid them out for her across the chair. She'd find them when she woke. He moved to sit by the window, propping his feet up and staring outwards. It was not so much looking at something as the thought of seeing a dark sky with fathomless stars overhead that moved him to do so. A sleepless night intrudes.Not the first.Nor the last.No. His reply was short. Concise but it was not what he was feeling. I keep thinking about the names unwriting. It bothers me a great deal. I could think of one name being take from him. The person dying or changing. Forgetting. But all the names means many have forgotten. Changed. And are uncalling to him.Taj remained silent, having no words to give. It bothered he no less. Leaning back against the cushions, he simply watched the hyperspace go past as his mind tried to work on what was bothering him so much. Was it the expression he had seen on the god's face? It was not that alone. Was it the way he had said that the names were unwriting? The silent dread in the sound of his voice? Was that why this kept returning? Or was it his own shameful behavior and the regret that worked on him?
"Too many questions..." he muttered in exasperation. "And I've no clue where to look for answers."Cinderfae She had gotten to sleep using more medication then most would have been comfortable with, within her sleep she saw the fires rise with the tribal worshipers dancing around them. This is an old dream...Not a dream once reality, Karaskis voice came from no where and everywhere as it had before. Why are we doing this again? Cinder's mindself frowned and looked over the area as if expecting to be able to catch sight of the goddess. She had thought they had been past this. It is almost time, get them home...Gasping slightly Cinder shot up in bed breathing heavily her eyes flickering over the room. She felt on fire, and she knew that the fever was back. Letting her breath even out she reaches over and finds robe standing, pausing near the dress and necklace with a small smile. She didn't feel overly well but she spied Jaster standing thoughtfully to the side; although traumatic to herself she hadn't pulled him from his reverie. As softly as she was able she moved over and wrapped her arms around him from behind, "what has taken your thoughts so far away?"Eftemie "Just something that nags at Taj and I constantly no matter what we do." His admission was soft and pain-filled though he moved to hold her against him. "Did I tell you I met him and did not know that's who he was? Harmodius. Creation. Destruction. Whatever others call him. It was when I found the stone back in a cave filled with pools of water I could not see at first. Four times it took me passing them before I understood what was hidden. Then I still did not see him until he spoke."An intense frown flickered across his face, but there was something more there too. Regret. Remorse. It settled into his eyes as he continued staring outwards. "Some of the things he said still bother me. It's why I jumped at the chance to come with you. At least this had a chance to help him." A sigh broke free. "I don't know. Maybe I'm just being silly. I've gone back over it so many times and I still can't see what Taj and I should really do. One would think as Mystery that the option to see hidden things would be there. Even if we could tell noone." Cinderfae She ran her hands over his stomach in a somewhat soothing motion and let him finish speaking. She tightened her arms slightly in a hug before responding, "what was the conversation like? You wouldn't be drawing to it like this unless there was more." Something about what happened had bothered him, she wondered if it would play into the insanity that was going on now. She rested pressed against his back slightly, her fevered brow feeling somewhat tempered by having him close. "Tell me about the meeting, I don't think I'll be getting back to sleep anytime soon." Karaskis moved within she could feel it, the goddess felt more awake then she had since they had been bonded to one another. A memory of the dream and Karaskis' voice, she shuttered involuntarily it seemed she wouldn't have much more time. At least not much more in which she was just herself. Tajnevaki His thoughts regressed back to that day. "We found the cave by accident, but I knew something was there. I could feel it. The path led downward and I laughed simply moving forwards while Saljin muttered something about my getting us into trouble again. But after following each path once we ended up in the same room and I could hear water each time we passed. But when I held the stone I knew it was mine, but whether I should keep it was the choice presented to me."
"We spoke of what the stone was and what he was, but I've never been one to see limits. I've always made my own. Having been on my own so long, it's just the way it was. I pushed his buttons as a result just to see a reaction. I've never trusted easily because of my father and those I do trust have my loyalty entirely." A sad laugh slipped free. "He called me "cheeky" and seemed hurt? Disappointed? I'm not entirely certain but he moved to leave though I tossed questions and remorse with a smile. He said he had never vanished. That he had always been."Jaster was silent for a long moment, finding the words he needed to say. "I know now he's right, but he said other things that it took me a long while to see what it was he really meant though he was not saying. I even accused him that if the gods faded, perhaps it was just the way it was. "Eighty-six Ages between the fall of the last and the rebirth of the first.". That's how long he waited. Alone. And yet he knew when I would be there and was waiting on me. My own father never waited on me, but sold me. My mother died when I was young and there is little I remember of her except the feel of her. But inspite of all this and even with his admonishment that remorse is hardly with smiles, his next words constantly wear at me. I asked his name, Cinder. He said, his eyes distant as if there were shadows of things to come that he was struggling against, "There were many names, some more recent then others. They are unwriting.""
"I owe him a true apology. I did not see that his presence there was a gift. No other would have been there for me as he was. Aristogeiton loved him and I would imagine knew all his names and what each one meant. Should not all of us know more? I mean I know what I've been told about his names, but how does a name unwrite? And if he meant losing them, then how is he losing them? And how can they be restored? I think this Aristogeiton is a good chance, but I do not think it is all that can be done this time because of the things that Samyaza alluded to with her words at the Pantheon. He's been alone too long and without what should be his."Cinderfae She rested and listened as he spoke, it was more information then she had ever gotten from him about himself before. Then again the two really had not had time to talk not deeply about things it had been a whirlwind of actions since they had started, space, pirates...lust. Ah, yes I very much remember that last bit. Karaskis' reply was somewhat cheeky and surprising since she hadn't spoke before. "You'll get to speak to him again I am certain," Cinder smiled slightly. She really really hoped that he would get to speak to him again. "Samyaza, she's the creature that was in the Pantheon?" From what she had heard it seemed that creature that he had spoken of was a very big piece of the puzzle. "She spoke of the names as well? Perhaps there is something to that, names...hrm," she frowned faintly, "a power in words perhaps?" She sighed slightly, she knew she was facilitating and letting him open up and think things out but at the same time she wished there was more she could do with the whole situation...perhaps if they found the right word it could open up the mystery surrounding the whole ordeal a little more. Tajnevaki Once more his thoughts turned back to the things that happened that day. "Yes, she did. She spoke almost in rhyme moving as if to leave until Gianfar spoke to her. Literati, she called him. "One cannot garner new name, where form no longer remains the same. Your captain cruel collapsed. So has the once-ling queen. Perhaps later, cocoon sprung, I can find a name from final lips. But not now, Hunter. That one speaks to no one now. But she will need all of your help, his taint hit her nearest, dearest, closest wracked and lacking found the floor. " "You'll want to stop her leaking gore. Let not concern for me get in your way." The taunt about Gaia was to distract us. I knew that, but neither Taj nor I had the power to fight her, so we moved on past her to tend to Gaia's injury. But I still listened as much as I could."
"As I continued walking warily past her, I heard her say, "Thoth. That was a name once. In feminine mien, Sarasvati. There were days where I would have lent my two arms to yours to hold your mala and veena. How call you now and how do you answer, master of Literati?" Not long after that she was out the window past poor Arctang having flung him backwards. Gianfar explained the wound she left afterwards as a void wound. She unmade a portion of his neck where she touched it. The Grigori are enemies of Creation and use void. He said that Creation and Destruction could not exist without each other. IF things are destroyed they can be remade. Void will unmake all. Whatever is growing in the cocoon is at Samyaza's doing and discretion. It should not remain so. Taj feels as I do. "He became silent again, but then said, "There are weapons. Four of them or so he said. Aristogeiton's sword, Harmodius's glaive, Gaia's shears, and Rebirth's jesses. If we have him, then perhaps we have a way to find the first two. The other two I'm uncertain. He said that Aristogeiton was a mighty warrior and fought the last war. He could know. They are imbued with so much Creation that Void can do nothing to them. A question to ask of him though when we are there. Gods of plants or animals can wound them as can Gaia, Byrne.." He blinked. "I have noone to connect that name to. Odd. Anyhow, he said they would be able to injure Grigori. She took Gaia's arm because it contains a portal to where the other grigori wait. She did her damage and went for help more than likely. I still want to know who exactly they are. There has to be some record of the grigori that we could delve into. We need to know more about them. I'm unsure if laser pistols would work on them, but I know one must not touch them but hit them from a distance after seeing what she did to Arc. He was a friend once. Taj and he we discovered."Cinderfae Cinder frowned some as she listened, nodding slightly to Jaster as he spoke taking in the information. Some of it was things he had touched on briefly before but others were new the information was coming to the surface and the question was what to do with it. "It almost doesn't sound like they were always enemies, she spoke with familiarity to one of the gods. She knew him...very personally. Sadly it sounds like any ability to reconnect with that closeness they had is gone..." Cinder frowned, names... "Mycroft, do a quick run through mythological databases look up the name Samyaza...also names that," she cut off after a moment as if deciding, "names that Creation might have used once."
Not as dense as you seem sometimes... was Karaskis amused response. Not dense! Mycroft cut in stopping what could have been a brewing argument. "I'm glad to see you at least seem to be feeling somewhat more yourself. I'll see what I can find, Jaster please see to it she takes a seat at least."Cinder glowered, "I'm not a child."Eftemie He blinked then laughed, turning around to face her. Brushing his lips against her cheek, he whispered, "I can testify to that." Then he pulled her down to the seat at the window. Holding her close, he thought silently for a long moment.
"And I did think about this alot. He said unwriting. Not unwritten. If unwritten, then they would never be. But unwriting was as if they were coming apart, unraveling? Perhaps, but if so, then she had to have been there when..." His voice hesitated as he was abruptly pushed, shunted aside and yet he was there. Faint. "he was young himself to know a name." He blinked in surprise at the interjection by Tajnevaki, but then it was not he. It was the one they would become. Together. "Mycroft, check the dates on things too. See if there is a correlation in them as to when, where, and time. And any obscure facts or legends. There could be a clue in those which might give us a weapon or some way to deal with what she has done."Cinderfae Grumbling slightly at the whole being sat down thing Cinder did sit, and she curled some cuddling up to Jaster. She didn't mind sitting in his lap at all but did mind more the whole being told to sit. Sighing she let herself rest and waited to hear what Mycroft could find, after a moment she spoke, "he said unwriting...not unwritten but unwriting. Did you you say that the god that was hit their neck...that part of it had been unmade?" Frowning slightly she looked up to Jaster, "do you think this Grigori that it could unmake...creation by unmaking it's name?" The thought sounded strange even to her ears but there was an unsettling nature to it, something very unsettling. Mycroft's voice interrupted her before much more discussion could be had in that way, "I have found some referances. Samyaza is Aramic, but Semihazah, Shemyazaz, Semiazaz, Semjaza, Samjaza, Shemyaza, Shemhazai, and Amezarak which is Ethiopic are all her also or at least seem to refer to the same entity. And I have not found much more when it comes to dates with the names...however interestingly enough. Perhaps the strongest connection that gaps several cultures that refers to the being Samyaza, who was once a sentry of the gods but then deserted is Satan."Cinder frowned glancing toward where Mycroft's voice was coming from...they had primordial gods, it seemed fit that they would have primordial evil as well. "I wonder though what her name would have been before she fell...that might have some power against her now." She sighed slightly, "see if you can find anything else...and look for names that Harmodius or..well that his being may have used before."Eftemie Jaster scowled deeply, his arms around Cinder. "I've heard of Satan. Lucifer. Said to have been an angel that revolted against god. He was one of the first created. A liar. Deceiver. My mother believed in magic, though I do not remember if she thought it connected to gods."He thought over what Cinder had said previously. "What name could she take that would cause this?" he murmurred and then frowned. "A name that was at the beginning. Not what he is called now. Creation and Destruction remain on our lips. So too does the Twin Crown. Harmodius is here as well. What name would matter enough...?" he stopped, his thoughts frantically working as he and Taj both tried to find their way through this labyrinthian puzzle of words. There was something here. He was quite certain. But could they figure it out in time was the question?
"Mycroft, start loading some of this into a hand unit if you don't mind. We might need it for later." Jaster added absently. "Someone will." He already had in mind to give Eddard a copy and let him see what he could find out from those he knew. A few moments later he picked up the unit in one hand to go back over the names he had been given. "ir weqadish means watcher and holy one. The grigori are called watchers so when Samyaza said she carried for Literati, she possibly did as an angel before the fall. Watcher comes from 'to be awake' or 'to be vigilant'. So the grigori were the sentinels or watchers of god?" He corrected. "Gods. They served the gods which was why she said she carried, lending him her arms. Gianfar said she was the first to dissent when he spoke to her then. She caused the war or rebellion that he spoke of happening so long ago. Or perhaps he. Satan is said to be able to deceive. Samyaza would be no less if that is one of the names belonging to her."
"Let's see... Shaitan in Arabic, Satan in Hebrew, Satana in Aramaic, Saytan in Arabic. Hmm.. two names in Arabic. I guess they really wanted people aware." He commented as much in amusement as seriousness. "Seytan in Ge'ez, Mephistopheles in human, Shaitan again in Urdu. I guess evil has as many names as gods do. There is an obscure reference here, referring to a Slavonic book of Enoch that references a Watcher, a Grigori called Satanael, but the text is of uncertain date and authorship." He frowned faintly frustrated. "So much is vague, laced into stories and myths with the truth hidden of what was and is and should be."
"There is also a reference to a Flower of Life said to represent the days of Creation. The beginning? It seems rosette like. Not sure about that. Does Karaskis know anything? Taj seems to be thinking this over as if trying to draw something forth from memory." He sighed, putting the unit back for Mycroft to continue feeding into it. Cinderfae Watching him a moment while he spoke and then looking over at the hand unit she frowned slightly, "so Satan, or well the evil against the gods in her current stance and with her actions that seems rather fitting. She took a name and the name she had before is lost, so the name she had as a sentinel." Cinder rested back against Jaster and closed her eyes, Karaskis...any insight?I'm afraid the years have been to long, I have forgotten too much. I am unable to remember, trust me I greatly wish to remember and to know."Karaskis can't seem to remember it, one of the many things still shrouded to her it seems." Frowning to herself she shook her head, of course that would be too simple. It just seemed as if this Grigori had more then one up on them at anytime.
"Names...she took a name. It's all unwriting," frowning her blue grey eyes flicker over to her own palm unit. "I think I know what name was taken. The consort, Ari helped balance Creation and Destruction; perhaps it was a name he called Harmodius. An endearment or something secret? Ari was scattered for some reason he has to have some link to it all." A small frown played on her face as she continued to stare at the unit, "if he is still in the state you described I doubt it would work...but if he could accept another consort. Perhaps another could name him and continue to attempt the balance."Eftemie Jaster nodded faintly. "If that was the name she took then it has to work down those 86 ages to unwrite it all. When that happens there will be no names for him. He will cease to exist as any of us know him. That is what she has done. Returned him to whatever he was before. What is before that first bloom of life?" He knew. Taj knew. As one they uttered the answer. "Void. Emptiness.""That is what she has done to him. And Gaia's arm is to get the rest so they have the advantage to get rid of it all. And us all. While we were gone they were still there. Gianfar said that they continued gaining power."But the names she is unwriting are those of Creation and Destruction. A name given now would have the same effect if given to them. It would be now at the end and unravel so long as tied to them. Would it not?" Where was the solution in all this? He saw more of the pieces of the puzzle but felt as far from seeing the entire picture as he had been when he began. Cinderfae Cinder sighed slightly she didn't know where he was trying to go and she was feeling worn after just being awake for a short time. Turning slightly she wrapped her arms around him closing her eyes and resting a moment against him. "You have plenty of time to think it over. Perhaps for now we should take some rest." Even if he wasn't going to head to sleep yet she figured she might as well take advantage of his closeness. With that in mind she curled up against him a little more, "and if you don't think you will be able to sleep well...I have an idea of how I can get you to rest." Glancing up Cinder offered a small smile before uncurling some and standing holding a hand out to him, "and the dress is beautiful." Eftemie He glanced up at her, his reverie entirely broken. A grin slipped across his face as he watched her. "Oh? And what might that be?" He stood, taking her hand. "Oh! I know! I have just the thing!" He picked her up, carrying her to the bed and just plopped her down gently. Then he moved away. "A game of cards will work great!" But instead of turning to where his pack lay with the cards inside, he reached over and turned off the lights while laughing.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:20 am
He was once more back in the workroom. Triq was feeling a bit under the weather so she was sleeping in. Saljin was up in the command center talking to Mycroft and the rest were in various places. It was the perfect opportunity to just sneak away and try his hand at it again. Jaster had found that he could think while carving and though he was not sure exactly what he'd be able to make, he still wanted to attempt to make various things from the wood he had leftover. He really had no pattern in mind when he began working on it. That it was turning out flower shaped was unnoticed. A point extracted here and smoothed down to the center. Curves and lines that he had never worked with before seemed to leap out after a few moments. But his thoughts were not entirely on what he was doing. Names ran rampant in his head. The talk with Cinder had given him some clarity but the rest was still leading him in circles. His frustration was obvious to Saljin who had told him to take a step back and breathe. Annoyed not just because the shifter had said something, but also because he was right, Jaster had done that. He walked away, grabbing his bag of wood and tools. He supposed some would call it a hobby bag, but even that he never really thought about what it was called.He just knew it was necessary to do what he wanted to do. A bag of toys. Each stroke of the tool took a small chip fromt he block. One here. Three there. A moment stopped gave him a chance to study what he was doing. After nearly an hour, chips lay scattered across the table and floor as the block shrank in size. But it was taking shape. An upright curve led downwards again. A sideways movement smoothed the edge. Breathe in. Breathe out. Wax on. Wax off. The rhythmic motion soothed. The repition opened up options, speaking to him. Names flew through his mind as he went back over all that he and Cinder had discovered with Mycroft. Samyaza was as hidden in lore and myth as all the gods were. As Taj himself was still wrapped in the dark velvet of the unknown. It fit. It was annoying. The names would be as numerous if not moreso for Creation-Destruction. Separate entities yet the same. One would never be without the other. To unravel one, unraveled the other. But how could it be stopped? And if it cannot be?I don't know. His admission was honest and instant. He did not know. He knew what he could see but that seemed to be little. And perhaps somewhat worthless. The problem was that Jaster knew neither by those names. Nor did Taj. The God of Mystery had alluded that he had been one to wander, reaching into crevasses, dark and deep to see what lay there. Jungle images appeared where things crawled and darker creatures prowled, lurking for prey. Even he did not know those names. Yet both knew someone was there, but who was that person? And more importantly, what did he and his now alternate aspect really mean to Creation and Destruction? If one asked him what his mother had been like, Jaster could have given a nearly instant reply. Beautiful. Warm. Loving. Asked of his father and other words came to mind. Deceitful. Uncaring. Frozen. And far worse words sprang to mind at the thought of the man. Ask Taj about his sister and he could answer just as easily. Strong. Playful. Athletic. Asked of the twin aspects- the god they wanted to see and silence. Both paused knowing that it should come as easily if not moreso what he meant to them. Not they knew, had learned, and now understood. Aristogeiton should not have been all that the crown was left to. He was the example they should all have gone by. He had waited 86 ages for them even when Ari was gone. A sudden slip of the blade sliced his finger open. Jaster growled flinching as he dropped the tool to watch the red drops hit the table. A growl of exasperation leaped forwards, grappling him and trying to take control.. He nearly yelled to whomever was listening "What do you want of me?" in frustration. Nearly. Take a deep breath, count to ten, and back up a step.The words echoed. More often than not, Saljin had told him such whenever frustration bit in too hard. Blinking in surprise, he did just that. Closed his eyes as he backed up, counting to ten. There was a soothing to the other's voice even in memory. A count of twenty later found him wrapping the throbbing finger firmly in a makeshift bandage from his polishing cloth. It was then he noticed the block was flowershaped and reminded him of the one Mycroft had added to the information. An obscure tale of life and blossoms capable of soothing hell itself. He had doubts that a flower made of wood would do so, but this piece would be rather pretty when he was finished. Picking up the tool again, the drops of blood cleaned away, Jaster focused for a time on the flower before him. His thoughts slowly wandered following the labyrinthian path his normally took until they were once again on names and meanings. Taj listened. It was one of the things he did. Listen. Truth was laced in myths and legend if one knew where and what to look for. He was out of practice. Of that he had no doubts. Or he'd have spoken before Jaster cut himself. Fading did that to one, removing all one knew, and causing skill to be released. It could only be regained after much work and step by step. But as Jaster's thoughts turned once more to Aristogeiton and the Twin Crown and the relationship they had and whether success would be gained, Taj spoke up. What is their legacy of life to you? To me? To us?The tool skidded, suddenly pushed harder. It caught, gouging and the fragile piece snapped in half. The broken wood toppled to the floor leaving Jaster staring in surprise. A sigh broke his lips. Carving 202 failed. "I suppose it was time to stop anyhow." Reaching down he picked up the piece and began cleaning up. What did they mean to him?
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:21 am
Carving 202b
08.24.08 Solo
More conclusions while carving As the ship continued on its way and others rested, Jaster found himself once more in the workroom, carving. Like before he was trying to work out the pieces of the puzzle within himself as much as the solution for the entire condition of the gods and the mortals tied to them. And they were, all tied together. Knotted. Tangled. Pulling. Pushing. Shoving. Against one another as if with a great need they felt more than understood. It was no less with he but he was brooding. Silent. And carving. The broken piece lay before him and he constantly glanced at it as he began reshaping what he had begun. Shavings began to fall as the last statement Taj had made on their previous carving escapade suffered defeat made its way back into view. What is their legacy of life to you? To me? To us?The sound of the words still echoed in his mind repeatedly and several times he stopped, pulling the tool back to prevent his distraction ruining the blossom. He still was unsure what it was that he liked about it, but the previous night he'd been pouring over the information once more that was contained within the unit from Mycroft. More had been added as the UI found more references. And then even more. The names for Harmodius and Destruction were adding up. As were other references some in ancient words from races long dead and yet they were there I don't know, Taj. My life has changed so much from the fellow who came from the Labyrinth with only the expectation of seeing him again. Even not knowing who he was, I still wanted to see him, but that is not enough. I've thought alot about this and I keep coming back to the same point. Aristogeiton loved him so much. True adoration that transcended lifetimes. You realize there is a correlation between them and us, right?What do you mean?
Think about it, Taj. He was so loved by a human that it balanced him, giving them both more and something that survived through millenia. Gods faded. Was it because of an imbalance in them? It could very well have been.
You alluded the entire time before we fused that there was something you needed from me. You failed. Remember? Which is why we are becoming one. Do you see it now? You and I will be stronger than either of us ever were separate. Just as they are stronger together. They are the same to Ari whether Creation or Destruction and he loved unconditionally. Can we do less for him? Should all of us not be using his example to give what we owe to them?
He was alone for so long without even Aristogeiton that his strength is gone. 86 ages. None could fill that space, but even though so many defended him that day, it was too late to stop Samyaza. She should never have had the chance to get so close to him without others there. His throneroom should have been filled so that she was one amongst many. Many should have been at his feet, never allowing him to be alone. Gaia was the only one in there with him and she struggled, weak though it was. The grigori was missing an arm also from the conflict, so it proves at least one fought, but that is not what is important.
The importance is that he was alone. 86 ages and even if young should not all have been there for him, children comforting, laughing, caring for the one who cared for them? That is what I felt in him that day. Loneliness as he spoke to me. And I hurt him with my words. He is life and all owe him the same adoration that Ari gave to him. But we may see it too late. These really are the End of Days and the Void will be cold. Heartless.He frowned, stopping as he gazed on the piece of redheart gleaming faintly. The handle was still in his fingers though it moved no further for an instant. He began carving again suddenly, gently, his mind awhirl. His fingers nimbly seemed to move of their own volition as his mind calculated what he could not see yet. Not quite. It was just there beyond his reach. There was something for him to do. For he and Taj. She took his name in some way. The one that started all this. The rest everyone knows. Ari is the key to him but he's not all. A name must be replaced and guarded. A name that does what can be to hold him in whichever of the three aspects he can latch onto it from. Could they do that? In a way to protect it. Three aspects? We do not want Void, Jaster.
No. We do not but there is still one there you have forgotten. Samyaza rebelled and I think it was because of Aristogeiton in some way. Everything changed then. The stories say that Lucifer was prideful. Jealous. What if that is true? Lucifer or Satan is just another name for her based on what others saw and interpreted for themselves. Just as I'm having to figure out what he is to me. But this way she gets what she wants by removing what Ari gave to him. If it goes back to the point where she was still a servant and had not fallen yet, then she gets her place back with him, He's unaware of what she has done, he does not know of Ari or the rest of us. We are something he does not see or perhaps cannot understand. We cease to exist and she gets a new name in praise of what she has done. It's a longshot but that is the conclusion to which I have come. All she needs must do is stall for time. Just as she distracted with their condition, she and hers will stall us before that thing is free. But if we can change what is within the cocoon in some fashion, where she cannot see, it may yet save all.
I do not pretend to know it all, but I do see not only your perspective but from that of a mortal. Together we are stronger, Taj, but that means able to see as both of us. He needs... he needs... I need an answer.There are infinite answers, Jaster.All this talk of names taken, given, hidden, changed suddenly swirled down into one drop. Was that what he finally understood? Could that possibly be what it was? And the conclusion they were coming to? Jaster suddenly stopped, not entirely realizing that the tool in his hand had been working until he stared at it. It was finished. A little sanding soon took all the rough edges off. And as he understood what it was he needed to do, he suddenly knew he had the answer and grinned.
A wide silent grin that was neither he nor Taj. It was both.I know what he is to us, Taj. I finally know. I just hope it is enough for him to reach for. It has to be. A little oil and it would be protected as the one they understood now they loved would be. He had faith in them. Now it was their turn to have a little faith in him. That he would hear their combined voice deep inside the darkness he lay within.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:22 am
Questions with hopefully some answers...
WIP Solo
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