|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:24 am
  Fire Is Always Changing
08.24.08 Joint with Cinder
Karaskis morphsCinderfae Faran had gone off to see the room that Kalfyra had seen to getting prepared for him. Cinder sat for a moment at the table her eyes somewhat glazed she had stumbled through the conversation with Faran without much tact or thought to the whole thing. She could feel Karaskis within, rising and attempting to pull through her almost. Gripping the table a moment she shuddered... It is time. Karaskis' voice was stronger more powerful like an inferno in her mind. Cinder snapped her head up, her eyes reflecting flames and fires from within instead of from without. She turns as if focusing on Jaster, "Karaskis says it's time...I should get to my room. No telling what wi -" her voice is cut off with a small cry of pain and she curls on herself. Within her cybernetics feel as if they are being ripped free and pushed out. The feeling of splitting and breaking flesh though it has not surfaced to the outside appearance as of yet. Eftemie Jaster grabbed her as soon as she spoke, feeling Taj move as he had. Both were concerned for Cinder and Karaskis. Picking her up entirely, he carried her upstairs and into the room she'd indicated earlier was hers. It would not help to have the others walk in on this and Cinder wanted her privacy. Something he would want himself when it happened. It is different for all. Jaster had not asked, but he answered. Settling on the bed with her, he brushed the hair from her face gently. "What do you need me to do, Cinder?"Cinderfae Cinder curled in pain gripping a hold of Jaster almost painfully but then her hands snapped open and she went rigid. She seemed like she was about to say something but then her back started to crack open blood spilling onto the bed; her eyes were not her own already consumed in horrible flames. She lay a moment her body shuddering somewhat before speaking the voice however was not Cinder's and it was not Karaskis' but somehow a mixture of both, "the cybernetics need to come out, be ready to help staunch the blood if it's needed."As the two spoke there was another cry and along her spine where Cinder's back had opened up metal started to move through from the bloody mess. Cinder and Karaskis thought of staunching the blooding seemed to somewhat like a loosing battle the metal now poked out all the way out along her spine, along her arm it poked from her bicep down toward her elbow. The blood loss would have been considerable but anyone getting too close would realize not only was she not losing as much blood as she should be but that she was extremely hot as if moving closer and closer to the center of an inferno. Small flames seemed to start over the cover of the bed dancing along it moving out from her body. Cinder didn't seem to be able to speak anymore, she could feel the metal meant to stay a life time being ripped from her; as if loosing a limb. The feeling of the flames was almost as bad burning but the burning soon gave way to at least some numbness and relief. Smoke rose around her as well as Jaster, luckily it wasn't choking at least not yet. Tajnevaki Jaster could do little more than hold onto her. And make sure the bed didn't catch fire. Just as he would have pulled the blanket forwards to staunch her blood loss, it sealed over. He shoved the cybernetic piece off the bed and continued to hold her. She was almost too hot but he could see that Karaskis needed this. Being Fire, she would need exactly that. Heat. Fire. Lots of it. The flames dancing around in such a multitude made him wonder how flame retardant the blankets and Cinder's clothing was. Even the mattress for that matter and finally, he spoke up. "Karaskis, if you can control the flames, I'd rather you didn't burn the house down around us or even the bed out from under us. I'll keep watch for stray fire, but I can only put out so much and hold onto her."He patted down a couple that left a small hole in the coverlet, but then glanced back at Cinder, holding her close to him. Brushing her hair back, he could see her skin was blackened, but it did not look painful so much as a part of her. "How many pieces have to be removed?" He wondered how many more times something would be pushed out so he'd be able to make sure the wounds healed over. Cinderfae Cinder/Karaskis cried out again the wounds over the back had white hot fire coming from them burning the skin seemed to peel away in some spots leaving back blackened skin smooth and perfectly healed in it's place. She then writhered and arched her back, although the flames danced over the fabric on the bed the fires did seem somewhat controlled enough that they could be kept up with instead of spreading too rapidly. The tribesmen danced, the flames of the sacrificial fires drew hire and hire as did the chanting and Karaskis pushed and pulled coming more into being and herself. A goddess not only growing but still remembering, first what had come in dreams and now what may once again become memory. Wounds as those on the back opened up on her chest as metal started to poke through the skin, with a feral yell the metals were pushed from the body; partially melted. And then more white hot flames rippled over her flesh instead of the pale color Cinder's once was is in place of it dark almost burnt flesh. Heaving slightly and trembling again Cinder falls to the bed, during the process orange strands developed in her red hair of head as well. Laying now somewhat peacefully in comparison to the last few moments smoke still rises around the new form laying quite still. Eftemie Jaster shoved the rest of the pieces of metal from the bed as he held onto her. It was probably a good thing he still had the leather jacket on, though he was certain that any burn to he would have been unintentional by both goddess and Cinder. She had changed a great deal, but she looked better now. The heat was intense, but seemed to be cooling somewhat. At least he was. It took a little shifting but he finally got his jacket off, tossing it to the side. She needed to rest, and though he kept an eye on the fire and made certain nothing burned away from them, Jaster refused to let her go. Seeing her change made him wonder what he and Taj would turn into. Arctang had wings, so did some of the others. The Hunter had seemed to have branches as wings. Fitting but did they work? He knew it was idle curiosity as much as need to know, but he was not pushing her to say or do anything. It was obviously painful and she needed her rest. All he could do was comfort her just by being there. Shoving an extra pillow behind his back, he then leaned down kissing her across the cheek. He just wanted to be certain she knew he was there. Cinderfae  There was a brief shudder and her body turned to a temperture more suitable for being touched. As the flames dissipated the fires on the bed did as well. Her breathing slowed and somewhat calmed and after a moment she peeked her eyes open a little, licking her lips slowly and finally she opens her eyes. Her eyes are swirling all the colors of fire, changing and moving as she blinks slowly. A faint smile comes over her face and she reaches out lightly caressing the side of Jaster's face, but when she speaks it is not Cinder's voice. But rather the dusky voice of the goddess, "Jaster, she loves you very much." Pausing slightly Karaskis looks over the bed and then Jaster again, "and bed shopping I believe will be in order." Her voice is somewhat thoughtful but at the same time tired and she doesn't move to get up but rather props herself up slightly on the pillow blinking some and looking over her arm of darkened skin, reaching up she winces slightly attempting to tug off the ruined bits of fabric. Eftemie Jaster nodded, smiling faintly after blinking in surprise at the voice after the caress. He'd not really thought about it being Karaskis when he felt her hand. "I know she does. I love her also. I know she is afraid of it too. It's why I put no pressure on her, but simply spend time with her. Spoiling her."
"Yes, I think at the very least something more flame retardant to prevent the house burning down." He grinned slightly, but then something that had been on his mind surfaced again. Taj had been getting stronger lately. Not the Taj that spoke to him from the stone, but the one they would both become. His appearance and strength seemed to be letting them know that it was only going to increase. "I do not think it will be long before Taj and I merge more. It's why I made the heart on the necklace while I was still myself. A way to tell her without pushing her in return."
"Is there anything I can help with?" An amused smirk crossed his face. "Or perhaps I should let Taj help you."Cinderfae She paused and eyed the now partially burned and melted clothing in annoyance before looking back to Jaster, "she will tell you on her own before we are one." It was a statement, Karaskis of all knew the mind of her host and already the regret she would feel that it was not shared before this change. She also had a feeling if Cinder had been coherent at this moment that she would be more then slightly displeased; not that the goddess was worried overly about it. Karaskis raised a brow in a rather catty expression and grinned faintly, "now saer Mystery are you hitting on me," her voice was somewhat playful and she smiled slightly before pausing and looking at the ruined clothing, "I must admit though I would rather get these burnt things off, they are uncomfortable now to say the least."Eftemie Jaster nodded at her words about Cinder. Whether she said it or not, he knew. Then he laughed as Taj smirked secretly. "I'm not saying whether he is or not. But I will get you a robe." He moved towards the closet where he could see a robe hanging. Taking it from the hook, he put it on the chair next to the bed.
"I'm going to go check on the others and make sure that everything is fine. Get some rest, but I'll be back shortly. I'll grab some other blankets too. I imagine there is a linen closet here somewhere. If not, I'll take some from the ship."Moving out the door, he left her there while he searched the closets. The first one had towels and cloths in it. Table linens mostly or bath items. The second closet had clothing. The third closet he found had blankets, pillows, and sheets. Grabbing some of each, he noted Delphine to one side, drinking a cup of tea.
"Delphine, how is everything going out there?" he asked watching her a moment. She smiled. "Fine. Saljin and some of the others have been inspecting the ship. Triq was helping move a few things around so that we all have a place to sleep."
"Alright. Thank you." Carrying the blankets, he piled them at the door for his return. Then he went outside to speak to the others for a few minutes. Cinderfae Karaskis sighed it was rather disappointing despite the fact she knew he was correct she needed rest. After all she had sat to the side for weeks while Cinder and Jaster had their little love affair and goddess or not she was more then slightly frustrated about it all. Standing she pulled the rest of the burnt clothing off herself and turned to the mirror, frowning faintly she shook her hair out. She wasn't too fond of the two toned appearance that had been the result of her darkening skin but for now she decided there was likely nothing more she could do about it. Her eyes and hair were more to her liking and she took a brush untangling what had happened to it during the morph apparently the hair tie had come out at some point. The red orange tresses fell down her back in ripples and she turned her head over toward the robe that had been left for her, it was white untouched and pure. Glancing toward the bed she experimentally reached out and touched it, behind she left a blackened hand print. With a frown she looked down the hall she wasn't far from the bathroom, she knew there would be towels in there as well, not bothering with thoughts of decency she walked into the hall naked her fresh new skin covered with almost a dusty look as the ash from the flames of her change fell around her lightly. She opened the door to the bathroom leaving a bit of soot on it as she did and eying the smudge in annoyance. Well it couldn't be helped and she knew Kalfyra would be all too happy to clean the door off. Her eyes looked over and she realized that she was actually seeing, no longer just a passenger colors seemed more brilliant and real as well. Moving toward the tub she turned the water on, a shudder running through her as she touched it. Her nerves seemed raw and alive and she smiled turning the water up warmer then comfortable for most and then stepping in with a satisfied sigh. Eftemie Jaster was on his way back into the room after about fifteen minutes, having picked up the stack of sheets and blankets too. He noted that water was running in the shower and hesitated for a moment. Karaskis most likely as noone else was up there and Delphine still sat below. Heading back into the room, he noted the robe on the chair. What had she taken with her to the shower? Amusement slipped into Taj. Nothing?
"Oh gods... " Jaster groaned, shaking his head.
Yes?
"Shut up. You aren't helping." Jaster muttered as he moved to pull the sheets off the bed. He rolled them up, staring at the mattress a moment. Nothing could be done about it until the next day, so he pulled it up and flipped it over after making certain that it was not on fire or anything. Most of the damage was on one side anyhow. The metal cybernetics had cooled down also and he moved them over to the side where he stacked the dirty sheets. Neither of them needed to trip over them. Clean sheets and blankets were the best he could do at the moment and he began to fix the bed as best he could for now.
His jacket still lay on the floor where he had tossed it. Picking it up, he dropped it over by his pack. The soot on it would have to be cleaned off too, but it would wait until the next day.Cinderfae Karaskis finished her shower after sometime a content feeling filling her and a soft sigh on her lips. Stepping out of the bath for a moment she paused and savored the feeling of the air on her skin with the water, the steam of the bathroom was keeping it warm for the moment so she paused and stood. Once the air shifted and chilled her she shudder a moment before reaching for one of the large double sized bath towels kept below the sink. She quickly dried herself down and then paused in front of the mirror wiping away the fog that had covered the surface during her shower, running a brush through her hair once again she looked herself over. Without the added soot and ash she looked much better at least in her own opinion, much of her was her host's mortal form still. Pausing she looked over the bathroom, small amounts of smoke still rose from her form still. Additions she supposed more of her true form pulling through, wrapping the towel around her and tucking it in the front she then went for the door. Not one for modesty she did it more out of courtesy as she supposed Jaster was back. Her hosts companion for the time was attractive enough and with several weeks of shared memories she wasn't sure how he would have reacted let alone how she would. Moving down the hall with rather light steps she noted the subtle differences in the body as she moved. The metal was gone and Karaskis was almost certain it gave the body more freedom, or perhaps it was a trick of the mind as she had been a passenger for in her opinion far too long. Karaskis paused a moment outside the door to the bedroom, her eyes flickering over the opening the jarred door gave off before she entered the room. Clothed in only her towel she smiled looking over to Jaster. "And it seems as I came back from the bath that my room has been prepared," the smell of smoke would cling to the room for the night but it was not something that would bother her. Tomorrow her servants could clear out and clean it along with purchasing a new mattress, she scanned the area she likely would have them pick up other things as well. The house was well enough for now until she could see to proper rooms within the Pantheon. Eftemie Jaster turned around at the sound of her footsteps, a sudden smile on his lips. But then he remembered it was Kara and nearly growled in frustration as Taj turned his attention to her. "I flipped the mattress for now. I mentioned to Erzulie that one would have to brought in tomorrow or as soon as can be gotten. I did not tell her of the transformation that has begun. You both need your rest and I was quite certain that Kalfyra and Erzulie would both be up here quickly."
"I put Saljin to watching Faran by the way. Whether he is there as himself or another form, I left up to him. None of them know of his shifting ability so it should help keep an eye on them all." Jaster moved towards the door. He was a mess himself. "Do you want some tea and something to eat? I'll bring it back before I head for the shower myself."Hopefully she would be asleep by the time he was done. He was debating sleeping in the chair, but knew that Cinder would rather wake in his arms. This was awkward. And Taj was smirking at making Jaster sweat. Cinderfae Karaskis smiled faintly as he spoke, Jaster did seem tense to her but she was fairly certain she knew why. "Rest would be wonderful, and we have much to do tomorrow...and a once consort to the throne to place back together." Karaskis moved close as if heading toward the bed but stopped in front of Jaster, leaning she kissed him on the corner of his mouth a slight kiss. Smiling her fiery eyes burning hungrily she then stepped over and and set on the edge of the bed pulling the towel off without another thought. "I'll get some rest and for now I believe I am fine and do not require food. Enjoy your shower the water is very...warm." Resting back she paused watching Jaster and his reactions for a long moment. Eftemie Jaster froze, his jaw nearly dropping open at the influx of sensations he was feeling at her nearness. And then even more at the dropping of the towel. Taj was actually laughing within and he clamped his mouth shut as he simply stared at her nearly in shock.
"No food. Rest well." Not Cinder. He blinked again. She had said warm? The shower. He needed cold. "I need a shower."Taj snorted again as Jaster turned moving towards the door, and out quickly. He was amused and had deliberately left Jaster there. If she pushed later, then he would shunt Jaster aside. It was the least he could do, but for now he was having too much fun at the other's expense.
"Cold shower." Jaster muttered moving quickly down the hall. "Very cold."Cinderfae Karaskis rested a moment longer back on the bed a slight smile on her face before turning to lay down. "Disappointing..." she hadn't really expected Jaster to stay but the bed seemed somewhat more lonely. Closing her eyes she rested her head on one of the new pillows realizing that she was very tired, perhaps more then she realized. Her host was sleeping and soon she went to follow. Karaskis didn't seemed worried that Cinder likely would wonder about the whole nakedness in the morning as the pilot never slept naked at all if she could help it. The goddess however found it more then pleasing. As she drifted off with the feeling of the air moving around her a small smile on her face.
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:26 am
Cuckoo's Story
09.06.08 Solo
Intro to Starshine, Pez, & Crouton Once again something was nibbled on, but how did they get to the bread this time? Delphine frowned as she cleaned up the pieces on the floor in the pantry. The loaf was in the box at the very top shelf and in the front. There was no way to get there that she could see. She might have expected the bottom items chewed upon by a mouse perhaps, but this was as if someone had taken a chunk out of it in midair and then dropped it onto the floor to eat. She simply did not understand it. Triq was standing nearby and watched the other girl. "What's wrong?"
"I'm not sure. Somene has torn open the loaf of bread again. They could have just opened it. It just seems... odd. That's all." Delphine sealed the bag back by tying it shut to prevent staleness. With food so scarce, they had to reserve what they could get. The rest was untouched, but she looked it over carefully. The aoide shrugged, picking up the tray. "Maybe someone just was not paying attention, Delphine."
"I suppose." A few moments later both girls carried the food out the the engineers and Saljin. As the girls left, a soft squeak was heard. Three small creatures drifted into the air, carried by butterfly like wings. Their long hair nearly covered their eyes entirely. One was dark violet with starlike spots of silver and gold on its wings. Another blue and violet with a bubble like pattern in the purple wings. The third a pale aqua with a little purple and white, but the odd thing about it was it seemed to glitter as if with faery dust scattered over it. Each had two antenna on top of their heads that wiggled slightly. The boldest of the three, the darkest one flew directly up to the counter, squeaking at the others as he did so. Nervously they joined him to tear open the bag of bread. In soft satisfaction, they began to eat. Pretzel watched from the corner where the staff had been propped. He snoreted when he saw them. "Stupid girls. A waste of space. We're invaded by flying rats."
Nibbling hungrily, they squeak to each other as they continued to dig into the loaf. Pretzel they could not see and would have paid little attention to him if they could. The door opened wide suddenly, causing all three to freeze. Triq stared as all three drifted into the air. Pretzel smirked. "Flying rats, moron. Who knows what pestilence they carry. Better kill them quick." It was obvious the creatures were harmless, but it would be fun to watch. It was almost too easy sometimes. Triq screamed, yelling. "I hate rats! I hate them!" Pretzel grinned in glee for an instant, but then began to yell. Grabbing the staff, she began swinging it at them trying to knock them from thei air.
"Not with me, you moron!" he growled as she slammed him into a cup on the counter. It spun off to the floor shattering. "You'll give me a headache!"All three scattered as the aoide began her rampage. Who knew a little bit of bread could cause such trouble? Moving away from her, the little darkest one tried to draw her attention away from the other two. Triq continued ranting as she slammed out at him. "I hate rats!"
Delphine stopped in the doorway flinching when she saw Triq. Turning she yelled. "Saljin! Come quick!" There was no way she was going to stop her. The shifter turned at the sound of her voice and the panic within. By the time he got to the kitchen, he heard Triq's voice complaining about rats. He winced, but opened the door, stepping inside. "Triq! Stop! Look at the mess you are making!"
"Rats!" she pointed at the creature she'd back into a corner. "I hate rats and these fly!" Saljin sighed, stepping forwards. "Leave it alone. It's not a rat. It almost looks like one of those pets. What are they called... ? Little pigs or something. It's harmless."
"There's more of them. Three of them." she grumbled but backed away. "They were eating the bread." The shifter watched it for a moment. Then he reached out, plucking it from the air. The poor thing was shaking like a leaf and quivered for several long moments in his hands before he could get it calmed down. "A little bit of bread for them isn't going to matter. I'll give them the crust off mine if that's the case."Delphine smiled stepping up to him. "Can I see?" The other two were watching from the doorway. "How cute. Triq, they won't hurt you."Saljin smiled, handing him over. "Here. You can take care of them, Delphin. Keep them out of the supplies and it will be alright if they stay. Then you and Triq clean up the mess. You need to get over this fear of rats, Triq."
"He" she glanced at the staff pointedly as Saljin hugged her for a moment. "told me they were flying rats."
"Well, stop believing what he says or I'm going to have Jaster take that staff away from you and lock it up somewhere." Saljin growled. He was really beginning to hate that staff. "Get to know what a rat really looks like before you start swinging that thing around."
"Hmpft." Pretzel grumped. If she didn't listen to him, he'd have no fun at all. He did not like this man at all. He was going to spoil all his fun. No less than the god and his human did. Delphine had coaxed the other two to her. They were all three shivering badly. Scooping up the apron from the pantry, she tied it around her waist. It had large pockets on it and that would be the perfect place for them to be safe. Talking gently to them, she tucked them down into one together. Once they were more comfortable, she'd put one over on the other side. For now it would work and the tiny things would be protected. And they'd distract her from Saljin. It was obvious he preferred Triq to her, but a part of her wondered why he'd given up his sapphire for her. A squeak pulled her back from her reverie as the three tiny creatures curled up together in the pocket and she sighed. "Come on, Triq. Let's clean up."
Starshine:: Pez:: Crouton
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:27 am
  Morning After Changes
08.27.08 Joint with Cinder, Little DreamCinderfae After lounging for a time and her discussion with Karaskis, Cinder or perhaps it was the goddess moved to get out of the bed. Cinder sighed to herself and pulled the robe on, Karaskis was somewhat amused realizing her host's modesty. Pausing near the nightstand she reached inside and pulled out the necklace that Jaster had carved for her. Slipping it on she held it a moment with a soft smile, she then walked softly toward him still sleeping in the chair. The feeling was weird still not being fully herself and she did note the differance in her body now with the cybernetics gone and the relief that came with it. She smiled as she paused near the chair Jaster was sleeping in what was likely not an overly comfortable position. He could have joined her in the bed last night but after speaking to Karaskis it was clear that the goddess would have made it uncomfortable at least for him. She wondered if she would have really blamed him if she had joined the goddess.
Well we are the same...Not really. Cinder gave a sharp reply. Jealous much, Karaskis sounded pleased and more then somewhat amused. Shaking her head slightly Cinder leaned and kissed Jaster lightly on the lips to wake him up, "get up sleepy head."Eftemie His eyes opened, but then he smiled having noted the voice. Cinder. Reaching out, he pulled her down to his lap, stealing a kiss. "I don't want to." A smirked slipped free as he pushed the hair back from her face touching her jaw gently. "Feeling better this morning? You had me worried for a bit."He touched the heart he'd carved with a smile. "It looks good on you." Jaster was suddenly very glad he'd made it for her. Hugging her a moment, he said, "She didn't eat last night, but I hope you are hungry this morning." His fingers touched her hair again. He liked the orange strands mixed in with the rest. Cinderfae She curled up against Jaster closing her eyes some as she did, "trust me it had me worried as well. And..." she held her hand up stretching it watching the muscles, "I can tell the cybernetics are gone..."She glanced down to the heart and then to Jaster again, "thank you again for it...I thought it fitting to wear it." She sighed allowing herself to relax against him, wondering some what it would be like when Taj morphed. She considered asking but...she closed her eyes slightly. "Actually I am rather famished, join me for breakfast. Because if we stay up here...we might end up going back to bed." The last was a mixture of the voices again, also perhaps pushed by Karaskis thoughts and preferences. Cinder grumbled and turned getting up, "right food...we should see what we need to get done today."Eftemie He laughed suddenly. "Up to tricks already. It's why I slept in the chair last night. Tajnevaki was as bad as she was. And I took a cold shower as a result after her taunt about warm water and dropping that towel she was wrapped in. I was not about to test it by sleeping there."He grabbed her fingers, bringing her hand to his lips. "I think one of us should go to the Pantheon and find out what is going on." His jacket was clean again and had been hung on the chair nearby. Pulling off the navy blue shirt he'd slept in, Jaster pulled a cleaner one from the pack. This one was bright blue. A color he'd always liked. After pulling it on, he put his jacket back on, but left it open in front. "What sounds good to eat this morning?"Cinderfae Cinder smiled slightly somewhat lightened to the situation at Jaster's reply, "well...I won't pretend that they aren't going to make things awkward." Walking over to the closet she looked at what clothing she had, tugging out a white tank top and then a pair of black pants she got dressed, "I'm sure we'll all figure it out in due time."Cinder had a feeling the whole combining thoughts and sentences would become...well common. She paused and looked toward Jaster a moment with a somewhat serious expression on her face before speaking, " I'm not sure...if I'm myself anymore. And what that means...we are combining." She turned and stepped over toward Jaster, although the eyes were burning infernos still there was much of Cinder still in them. "Where is that going to leave us...and you will be changing soon as well."Eftemie He turned towards her slipping his arms around her, holding her tight against him. "Yes, soon. I don't think we need to worry about that, Cinder. My heart is yours. It's hanging around your neck. I wanted to make sure you had it, that's why I made it on the way back after we got Faran. Whether as part of Taj or part of Karaskis, we still have each other."He suddenly smirked intending to tease Taj in return. "Besides Taj is far more interested in Kara than he wants to admit yet. That cold shower was far more for him than myself. I knew she was not you. And he wants more of himself present I think before they find one another." Jaster kissed her fully on the lips for a long moment then moved his lips to her ear. "I love you, Cinder. That will never change."An internal growl was Jaster's reward and he smirked knowingly. "Now he's annoyed with me, but it serves him right."Cinderfae Cinder pressed close a moment with a smile chuckling slightly, "well from what I understand the show she put on really was rather hard to miss so I don't blame him for needing a shower." Tilting her head she gave Jaster a kiss. "Lets head down and see what there is to eat, Erzulie and Jadá should be making something and I believe I heard Kalfyra say she was going to head to town to get some more supplies for the house." Slipping away after a moment she reaches out taking his hand. "Show or not, it was a very good show."Cinder sighed, "she is also very good at interrupting me."Pulling Jaster along Cinder/Karaskis head for the door of the room, below the sounds of others in the kitchen can be heard. Eftemie He laughed, agreeing. "They both seem very good at interrupting." Squeezing her hand, he grinned. Taj was sulking faintly, though he was amused at Karaskis. Jaster had the feeling that it would not be long. He'd felt it coming for some time now. And with the appearance of the one they would become showing up more frequently, it was only a matter of time. Some might be afraid of losing oneself. But Jaster considered it a new adventure just as Taj did. They were not losing so much as gaining more. Becoming someone new and with so many more possibilities. It would not be like the past for either of them and they got up each day greeting the morning with an excitement that was exhilirating. Delphine was sipping a cup of tea, the three tiny creatures drifting around her. They were now her constant companions and she smiled at their antics. Most of the day they could be found in the large pockets of the apron she wore over her dress. It was not necessary except for them. She glanced upwards, her lips parting in some surprise to see Cinder and Jaster. The woman had changed. Her eyes looked strange. "Saljin is outside, Jaster." she stated, turning back to her cup. "He said I should tell you if you need him." Cinderfae Cinder looked into the kitchen at the girl's reaction she shook her head slightly. They would need to speak to those staying with them now. Moreso so they could understand what was happening then anything else. Erzulie and the other girl that had bought from the pirates stood near the stove bickering over something, from the looks over it Cinder supposed it was likely the sugar bowl that Erzulie seemed to be keeping out of reach. Jadá snaked an arm around grabbing it from the faun girl with a triumphant look. Erzulie's eyes widened somewhat looking to the stairs forgetting whatever game she was playing she moved toward Jaster and Cinder. Offering a bow, "Mistress," Erzulie came to a stop near the stairs far enough away to allow them to move off of it and not block their path. Karaskis reached out her hand and rested it on Erzulie's shoulder descending the stairs as she did, "yes, at least more of what I once was. At these times we do not have much time to hold on ceremony." She smiled faintly, "Cinder and I are famished, we heard there was breakfast down here?"At those words Erzulie was up on her hooves again, "yes, toast and oatmeal with a variety of things to add to it for flavor as well as some tea. There would have been more but Kalfyra left this morning to go to the market. She has not returned yet." Erzulie's green eyes glanced toward the door. Kalfyra opened the door to the house and gestured Yumeh to enter with her, "we have arrived in time for breakfast." As Kalfyra entered the kitchen several pairs of eyes turned toward the two. Kalfyra's eyes went over to Karaskis/Cinder widening a moment and offering a small bow to her. Somehow she had known, and unfortunantly she had nothing to show for her trip this morning. "I went toward the market this morning, but the sick have covered many places now and it seems the market is closed. Looking in the window it seems they are running short of food and especially produce." Karaskis fiery eyes looked to Kalfyra a moment and a small frown came to her face, "See to the produce that was left on the ship and what reserves we have here. Start planning the meals more carefully and go out with Jadá, later on to try and get what you can for the house." The voice to those that were familiar with it would realize it was once again host and goddess speaking in time. Her eyes then went to Yumeh behind Kalfyra in the doorway, "and who is this you have brought home?" The voice was distinctly different then before it was just Cinder speaking now. Kalfyra turned slightly and gestured Yumeh to come in, "a traveller he was curious about what was happening and the Pantheon..."
"Hello traveller...and welcome, what questions and curiosities do you bring." And now the dusky voice of the goddess. LittleDream  Yumeh bowed, like he should when before someone of a higher rank of his. He could feel that this person was much more than she looked like. And it wasn't just the drastic voice change. It was something...something that you just had to feel for yourself. Her whole presence was different than a normal mortal's. "It is an honor to meet you, milady." He started with a greeting, and smiled. "My name is Yumehayla Magami, and I just arrived in this place recently. I had met your companion.." He gestured to the goat girl, that had lead him here "...by chance, and she tried to explain to me why is this wourld in such a...bad state." The goddedd probably won't like the comment on how they were taking care of this world, but heck, after what he had seen here, 'bad' was a serious understatement! Tajnevaki Jaster glanced towards Delphine nodding. "I'll find him shortly then, Delphine. Cute little things." His comment was directed for what he thought looked like flying hamsters. Or guinea pigs. He briefly remembered a vague trip to a pet store with his mother. When the darkest of all landed on his shoulder he watched it a moment in surprise. "Interesting. Have you named him yet?""No. Not yet." she said softly, amused that it had landed on Jaster and was nudging his cheek. "Starshine." The name slipped out as Jaster was shunted aside again to where he became a part of it all, but then he turned to watch Yumeh for a moment before releasing control back. "The more the merrier. I'm Jaster, Yumeh, host to Tajnevaki."Cinderfae Cinder/Karaskis smiled slightly watching Jaster with the little creatures before looking over toward Yumeh and then to Jaster again, "if you are curious of what is happening you can join us on our way to the Pantheon. Perhaps you will find an answer to your questions there. I will need to have something to eat first, I had a rather trying night." Gesturing toward the table she looked to Yumeh, "even with whatever is happening to the food you are more then welcome to eat as well if you are hungry." Inviting to the table was clearly Cinder instead of Karaskis or her combined. Kalfyra moved over toward the counter instinctively putting together a breakfast for her mistress. Erzulie stood to the side in a guard stance as if waiting for trouble that may or may not arrive Jadá had stepped back out of the way looking somewhat curious and off kilter not being ready for the change. Karaskis/Cinder moved and took a seat making herself a cup of tea rather calmly. LittleDream "Thank you." He accepted the invitation, moved towards the table, placing his hands on one of the free chairs. He didn't sit yet, awaiting the mistress of this house to take her sit first. It might look a bit bad, imposng himself in a moment like this, but if it really was as bad as they were saying, there soon might not be enough food for anyone. Too bad he didn't consider bringing more things with him... But normally, it was a matter of seconds to jump somewhere if he needed anything. But if things are this bad... Other gods from other worlds might, or might not be able to shield their domains from this 'Destruction'. But if he opens a direct passage to their world, it will be the same as sentencing all people from there to death. It seems he really is stuck here. Eftemie "It smells good. Who did the cooking today?" Jaster took the proferred cup and plate from Delphine. Placing them on the table, he took a seat next to Cinder. "I wonder who will be at the Pantheon. I'm sure there will be more people than last time. We did leave in rather a hurry."For a moment he hesitated, reaching up to his inside jacket pocket. It still lay there against his heart and he smiled faintly. It was a secret, but it was not his only purpose in going to the pantheon. Someone needed him and this time they would not fail. Time draws near. Taj was anxious. He wanted to be right about this about a part of their lord still there. Faith, Taj. In him. Jaster reminded quietly as he ate. Holding up a small bit of bread to Starshine, he smiled when the little creature took it from his fingers. Delphine could keep them and protect them. He'd make sure she understood it was her duty. Cinderfae Cinder/Karaskis moved the tea pot over toward Yumeh as he sat and rested back in her chair some slightly closing her eyes as she did. It was nice to relax she knew things would soon be too busy for such things she she let it happen as she could. Kalfyre walked over to the table setting bowls in front of those that didn't have them and laying out milk, cinnamon and sugar, and honey on the table as well for flavoring. She paused near Karaskis and brushed a hand over her shoulder tenderly she had missed her Mistress so even if she had just been reborn. Jadá snapped out of her stunned silence to speak up, "I did, it wasn't much though." The girl spoke almost shyly and unsure, a harsh difference from her normal speech and reactions. Cinder wondered how the others would react seeing the difference she hoped they would be on their way soon enough that she would not have to explain it to Faran though likely he would hear. Karaskis looked over toward Yumeh somewhat thoughtfully, " I'm Karaskis, and my host is Cinderfae." The voice shifted again between the Goddess dusky voice and Cinder's. LittleDream "As I said, it is great honor to meet you." He smiled, pouring himself some tea. He took a little sip, and looked at the Goddess, not able to hide the curiousity in his eyes. "After your companion's explanation, I had the impression that a host dies while attempting to bring back the god... Is that not true?"This was an incredible chance to learn. This world... It had a setting that he never seen before. Gods that needed mortals... Well, since he's stuck here anyway, and might die just like that because of some weird things happening, he might aswell gain as much knowledge as possible about this place. Eftemie Jaster watched Yumeh a moment, then explained. "Gods once lived and faded. Now we return.Some do. Some do not. Taj and I are slowly becoming one. We will both exist, but another will be the result of us."Turning to Jadá after another bite, he smiled. "It's very good. Thank you." For a moment he turned his eyes back to Yumeh, studying him silently for a long moment. It crossed both his and Taj's that if Yumeh had been drawn to them, there was a reason for it. Just as the two women, Delphine and Jadá, were here and had found their places within the order of things, so too would Yumeh when the time came. "Others will be more capable of answering questions you have at the Pantheon. If you will excuse me, I'm going to check on Saljin. and the others." Leaning over he brushed his lips against Cinder's cheek before winking at her and handing Starshine to Delphine to take care of. Then he was out the door after handing his plate over to Jadá. Cinderfae Smiling at the bit of affection she watched him head out the door before looking toward Yumeh, "much of what Jaster described is the same that is happening with Karaskis and I, but in the end Karaskis the goddess of fire will be the result even if it is now a mixture." Finishing up her food she looked over toward Jadá who seemed to be slowly absorbing the information but for her part she seemed to be handling it well. Karaskis made a note to speak with the girl sometime later and perhaps make her truly part of what would hopefully one day be Fire's court. Kalfyra was on hand to take Karaskis bowl once she finished, "we should head to the Pantheon once you are finished." She smiled and nodded to Yumeh, then standing spoke to Kalfyra, " remember what duties I assigned. Things may start becoming more dangerous as well see that Erzulie gives you and Jadá ways to defend yourselves if you should need to. Erzulie you know what you are to be doing." Straightening her top Cinder glanced toward the window, idly she wondered how Yumeh would react to the others that were starting to morph more with their deities. LittleDream Yumeh was already finishing his portion, when the Goddess...or half a goddess? ate hers, and seemed to want to leave as soon as possible. "I've already finished." He said, standing up and going to clean after himself. "Thank you for the meal, it was delicious. And congratulations to the cook." Now his smile was directed to the girl who admitted to do today's meal. He quickly cleaned the dishes after himself, and placed them where it seemed to be their place. "I am ready to go whenever you wish, milady." He came back to the table, waiting for the goddess. Eftemie Jaster walked outside to stand beside Saljin as they spoke. Faran and the other engineer were standing not far away. Triq was keeping an eye on the area around the craft as well as the lake itself. Her staff was in her hand and from her actions he was quite certain she was giving it angry words. He also noted she was wearing the jacket that Saljin had given her and he grinned. Saljin watched Jaster a moment. He seemed too quiet, perhaps tired, and the shifter frowned for a moment. "Are you alright? You seem tired.""A little tired. Hopefully this is nearly over. We've done alot in a short time." Then a grin appeared, spreading across his face. "I need a vacation."Saljin snorted, shaking his head. "We just got here.""I didn't say we needed to go anywhere." He watched Faran for a moment. "We will be ready to leave soon. As soon as they are done eating."Cinderfae Nodding slightly to Yumeh she moved out the door of the house and onto the porch, her eyes flickered over toward where Jaster and Saljin were along with the engineers. Pausing a moment to allow the engineers to move away she went over toward where the two were standing.
"I'm ready to head out as is our guest," Cinder gestured back toward Yumeh as she said that. Her eyes then settled on Saljin she wondered how the shifter would react to her newest changes. She was ready to head toward the pantheon once those going signaled her that they were prepared to head out. LittleDream Yume stood close by, waiting, and observing the people. There were even more of them here than he thought... I wonder why those didn't get sick... Does having relations with gods make you immune to this curse thing? Well...everything's possible. Eftemie Jaster glanced around at everyone and then back to Saljin. "Saljin, I want you to stay here and make sure everyone is safe. I don't know how long we'll be gone but with your skills I think it will make sure everyone is protected that much more. Have Delphine and Triq help with getting food and other supplies for the house."The shifter nodded. He'd raised an eyebrow when he saw Cinder's transformation but he accepted without a shocked reaction. The feeling that Jaster would be doing the same soon did make him frown a bit, but Jaster or Taj, it was still his friend and one he cared about. "I can do that, Jaster. Be careful. All of you. There were some strange noises in the woods earlier, but some of the creatures have been getting bolder about coming closer. I think they are looking for food." Turning to Cinder, he commented with a smile and a wink, "Keep him out of trouble, Cinder." Without waiting for a reply, he moved towards Triq nearby to give her an idea of what to do. A few moments later they were across the lake and walking towards the pantheon. The great chasm was entirely gone, but as they approached it looked like several windows were out now. Instead of the one that she had shattered that day. Briefly Jaster wondered if they would ever get things restored. Only Time will tell.Cinderfae Cinder/Karaskis scanned the building as they stepped up, from Karaskis there was a deep feeling of sorry and from Cinder a bit of nostalgia as she remembered the place when it was just a small shop. Sighing faintly she pause and glanced over toward the mortals outside gathered and huddled. Several looked at her with awe but many shied away, she heard the murmurings of some of the reborn gods but along with it was also much fear. A crowd was gathered around one man in particular her eyes caught sight of flame red hair and a deep voice. Karaskis frowned as memories reformed and attempted to peek through but much had so much been forgotten. From a crowd of mortals a tall man moved, he seemed somewhat careful of them as if afraid of stepping on one. His clothing was sparse to say the least and his eyes were the same fiery red as his hair; his hair was actually most shocking the curls and waves fell around his shoulders and disappeared into flames. Karaskis moved instinctually, "one of my elementals..." the goddess had locked her eyes on the man and finally her memories returned enough and she murmered, "Ashe..."Cinder/Karaskis eyes flickered back over to the other two, "I should meet with him and then I mean to search out Ankou, he is Underworld's brother he may have news of the others...if anyone else wants to split off and look for others or find news I suggest we do it now."LittleDream "Finally."Yumeh got closer to the building, and as soon as he was close enough to see it in all detail, he yelped and took out the box out of his pocket. What the hell is with this thing?! It's...it's burning hot!After shaking it a bit, and judging on sounds, the stone was still in there. Great. Did I get myself another magical stone...?"You have no idea how magical, my precious."He raised his head, and looked around quickly. Did he...just hear something? He wasn't sure, the sound was too quiet...but... "...Did you say something...?" He looked at the goddess, already knowing it wasn't her. The voice was different. But who..? ...maybe coming here wasn't such a good idea... Eftemie Jaster watched Ashe a moment, his lips twitching upwards. "Old boyfriend, huh? I'll meet him and then see who I can find. I've something to do. Betha or Arctang may be around. I should let them know I'm back. If I can find them." That was not all he was going to do. He wanted to see him. His fingers slipped to the inside pocket a moment as he watched the people here. All huddled and waiting for someone to save them. A deep sigh broke out as he turned to watch Yumeh a moment at the sound of the small yelp of surprise. He briefly wondered but then Taj interrupted. A box of secrets. Amusement was laced there in his words as they remembered. That is what we must do, Taj. See him. To give what we can to support him. They both knew what they needed to do. And if it helped him, then that was all that mattered. Cinderfae Karaskis looked over to Saljin a moment pausing as if considering a response but then spoke simply, "Ashe was one of my Elementals, a guard to my temple. He will be useful in these coming days." Cinder reached over and gave Jaster's hand a squeeze, "lets figure out who everyone is, any allies right now will be good ones."Karaskis/Cinder's eyes flickered over toward Yumeh curiously, "...are you alright over there Yumeh?" If it's a secret, he'll figure it out or perhaps Taj will for him. Karaskis mused. Yeah...I'm sure you'll be real good at sharing your secrets with Taj.In an almost mumbling response, he'd like it.While waiting for Yumeh to answer Cinder/Karaskis moved her way over toward Ashe the elemental had not noticed the group yet. But almost on instinct before they actually arrived toward him he turned and let a bow in Karaskis' direction. "My Mistress," he came up from his bow, a courtly rememberance but one he chose not to over do, "I heard your call."I didn't even know you were doing a call...Karaskis smiled, "it is good to find you again, and I will have great use for you if you wish to take up your old duties."The elemental smiled, even among the immortal creatures the world had become uneasy and frightening it was good to hear there was still places for those that needed them, "I would be honored.""Then you are welcomed," Karaskis/Cinder smiled. Ashe looked toward Jaster and then Yumeh quirking a brow curiously, "and who are your companions, my Mistress?"Cinder/Karaskis gestured allowing each to answer for themselves. LittleDream "Yes, I'm fine, sorry..." He shook his head, and followed the goddess, this time not hiding the box in his pocket, but holding it through a thicker layer of his sleeve. The voice he heard was quiet, so quiet that he had to concentrte on it really hard to hear what it's saying. And he now knew where did it come from. From his head. "Did I scare you, my precious?" The voice laughed "I had no will of doing so...Do not worry, I wish you no harm." Yes, now he heard it, at least most of it. But the 'no harm' part sounded pretty reassuring. ...who are you..? He tried forming the words in his head. When he got an anwser, he knew he was right about it. "You will know soon enough, precious. But I do not hear you well, and I am sure it goes both ways... But for now, concentrate on what is before you, and not inside you. Or you might make someone pretty irritated here."He raised his eyes, and saw someone, who he could describe only as 'fire incarnated'. Though his choice of clothes was...pretty peculiar. He felt the gaze on himself, and smiled instantly. "I'm sorry, I'm afraid I've buried myself into thoughts a bit too deep. My name is Yumehayla Magami, and you are..? Eftemie Jaster smiled, squeezing her hand back. He was only teasing her anyhow although he could see where the women would like Ashe. He was a pretty male and perhaps he'd take some of the pressure off poor Saljin when they returned to the house. "Jaster, host to Tajnevaki, Ashe." He held his hand out to the elemental. Glancing around at the people, he added after a moment, "We should probably go inside and see who we can find. I'll go looking for Betha or Arc or one of the others. Eddard is most likely around also. Somewhere."He glanced back at Yumeh for a moment. The fellow looked a bit pale. "Yumeh, there are places inside where you can most likely find a quiet corner if you need to."Turning back to Cinder, he smiled, reaching out to squeeze her fingers. "I'll meet you later." He had nearly said Cinder, but Kara would be there also. This was getting confusing, but either way, this was the woman he loved and he suspected that Taj might also. Strangely but in the end, all four of them would be there in some way. Cinderfae Cinder/Karaskis smiled and waved slightly to Jaster, "we'll meet back at the house if we don't see you out here." Looking over to Ashe and Yumeh she gave the two a moment to acquaint themselves her eyes occasionally going to the mortals scattered around outside. Ashe smiled faintly looking to Yumeh, "I am Ashe, and it seems you are preoccupied. I am a guard and one loyal to Mistress Fire." Looking back to the two Cinder/Karaskis spoke, "those coming are welcome to come along with me, I am going to lord Ankou's rooms. He described them to me sometime ago, perhaps he has some answers." With that she headed toward the pantheons and then up the steps heading within. Once inside she takes the group up a set of stairs where a hall of doors stand, "his will be the ones with the ravens upon the door." Thoughtfully watching the passing doors she moves along down the hall.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:29 am
Motive & MetaphorOr A Confession Of Faith & Love09.09.08 Joint with Ivynian Eftemie This is a private Edel roleplay between Ivynian and myself. Please do not post unless invited to do so by one of us.-- How long had it been since he last stood in this room? It seemed ages since that day, but had only been days that turned into a few weeks. Much had changed. Jaster could do nothing but stare around him. One window had been broken, but now seven were shattered, the bright bits of colored glass splintered, scattered about like so much glitter a child had carelessly spilled and left laying. He didn't stop to count. At that moment it was not what mattered to him and after a cursory look at each one, he moved on. A quick glance at the couch as he walked past statues of Ash and Bone revealed a dark stain of blood where they had tried to staunch her terrible wound that day. A day of Infamy. But it was not the day that had led him to this, need to speak to one who might not be able to reply. This was not for himself but for the one who was there within the cocoon. He waited. Waited upon what was the true question. Whether it was for a lover-a friend lost or more they could only guess. Or perhaps it was the destruction of the world raped, bleeding, broken and hanging lifeless in the arms of Void. Was it the fragments of the soul called Aristogeiton that they had gone to retrieve? Neither he nor Taj could answer fully and all they had was hope that Ari was the solution or could at least present one. His intention was quite different. He hoped to thwart what had been done another way. Hope and shame had both driven him there but those were two aspects of the same thing. It was the overshadowing thought of what the god would become. Something in him wanted, needed to stop it. Prevent it by doing something she- that thing called Samyaza could not calculate or see. Nothing else mattered to him. A name was unwriting. But also within that need was a grimace of pain that forcefully shoved through him, splintering across his mind. Drawing his breath in sharply, he forced himself to stand there. A flush of shame crossed his face and he dropped to his knees. The word 'cheeky' sprang to mind as the rememberance slipped into view. He had been. But his words should have been aimed at another and not he who had been on the receiving end. He knew that now. Not the god who had welcomed him. Waited on him. And wanted him or the stone would not be his. The god had greeted him kindly, freely, welcoming him as the chosen of Mystery. And He had never vanished, but waited patiently until Jaster had appeared in the time and place that he was needed. He understood now when it was perhaps too late, but was that always not the way of remorse? One knew too late. But he believed he was not too late. There was still time. He was uncertain what the windows meant but there were still a few left. So few. But still some. 86 ages the god had waited alone from the time the last god faded to the rebirth of the first leaving He here alone. Had He pulled the gods back from nothingness to be reborn as they were now? Jaster was not entirely certain, but it fit that He was the only one around to do so and he accepted it on faith that it was so. From fading and dying as the mortal men forgot them no longer needing them. The words had come from the god's own lips, information freely given though he had been a doubting Thomas. Jaster stood silently gazing at the shape in front of him. He was a much different person than when last he stood here. And even more changed, altered from who he had been in the cavern. He was not entirely Jaster either. Nor Tajnevaki, the god of Mystery either. He was both and perhaps closer to who they should have been born than they had ever been. But they had failed. His rudeness- cheekiness. Taj's frivolity with his duties as a god. 86 ages was a long time indeed and yet He had waited. Alone. Desolate. They were failing him again and the words haunted him, constantly on his shoulder as an imp chattering away gets swept aside only to return. An endless repetitive pattern. 86 ages waiting for what He held dear. He did not imagine he was the only one to see nor that he was the only solution. But he owed the chance this new life provided to Him. He opened his mouth to begin as he knelt there. His thoughts had been so clear and yet now he was unsure how to begin. But he began, knowing that he would be heard.
"Lord, I owe you an apology. A true apology. One I have learned does not hide behind smiles as you said. You were undeserving of my words that day, and though truthfully and honestly felt by me, they were not yours to be lashed to." His eyes were suddenly bright, filled with the bright dew of tears. He blinked hard but no hand rose to wipe them away. "I said we would meet again, but 'tis not the way I wanted." Ivynian Silence still pervaded the throne chamber like a carrion bird, perched on every high place and looking down for scraps of sound to gobble up. There wasn't even an echo in the great hall. the regular undulations of the 'breath', such as it was, of the chrysalis membranes didn't falter, hitch or alter. If his words were heeded by the thing inside, if it was similar enough even to the god he remembered after, there was no outward seeming to judge by. Oppressive, the peace of the tomb was undisturbed or unconcerned with his presence and words. He was, in simple terms, Alone, before and empty throne. Eftemie They had expected silence but they believed- had faith that He would hear. If another had told them that the god inside could hear noone, they'd have smiled and continued. Jaster/Taj believed that they were heard, but whether silence would continue to greet them, or there would be a reaction was not within their control. All they could do was say what they felt and give what was due to god- no matter his aspect- who had brought them into being, giving them the gift of life and a playground to explore. He was their Creator. "Foolish are mortals and gods alike when all should be kneeling in adoration before You." He growled, a mix of them both coming out for a moment. But then he closed his eyes, tears slipping from his jaw.
"We humbly beg You forgive us for our inattention and foolishness. Not for ourselves. But for You. Mortals are foolish not understanding what it is they have until it is gone or disappearing. Then they cry out in fear more than what should have been. But gods are no less. I- we become both in one because of You and we've had to search to find what it is You are to us. That should never have been. We should have known. Remembered. Seen before now. But even so You gave us each other, to fill within us what each lacked. Perhaps so that we would see."
"We are blind, faulty creatures who failed to recognize You twice. But we believe that You are not just the end. You are the beginning of all that is, ever has been, and ever will be. You are the first bloom of life that touched the void, springing forth to draw such beauty and glory into view for whatever reason and it pleased You for You continued pulling more into creation. It is to our detriment that we should know the history of the works You have done, but do not though they have been plainly displayed for all to see. Mankind has destroyed forests, lakes, and creatures that You gave to us and them with little regard for the work, care, and beauty of that which You had wrought."They needed to talk this out though it was Jaster in control- the stronger still. For now. Of like mind, they had worked the patterns, gathering what information they could, and even diving into the very personality of themselves and the god before them. Paths turned, twisted, whirled, creating loops of words and images hazy making them repeat, circle and spin as they had made their way to this place and time. They wanted to give Him His due having worked their way through a labyrinth of the spirit to kneel in remorse.
"Words meant for another stung You when we first met, and as we worked our way to You again, You have become the answer for both of us. You see into the places we cannot. You walk places we cannot tread and would tell us the wonders you have seen and placed there for us if only we would dare. You have the solutions to the puzzles that boggle us down in complexion when the solutions are so much more simple."
"We speak to that part of You that still contains life for all even if only a portion of what is here might be saved, that portion is still worth saving. For You. She is fallen. Rebellion. Betrayal of all life. And it was her actions that did this to you and that all move to correct. We speak to You that deemed us all necessary and lovingly fashioned us from within Yourself long ago and then again to bring us back to play and be with You. You are the one who we humbly ask and believe will hear us. We know You are the one who can halt what has been done. We speak to one who began so long ago to become Creation and Destruction. Some say separate aspects and yet we believe the same. Wounded You are angry, injured, pulling in to protect Yourself, shutting out what has hurt you. Becoming stone. But You are still there walled within and unable to act in another fashion. It is those walls we try to break to give You back Yourself and what is Yours."
"We only have us to offer as balm for what You have suffered. Our love and adoration for all that You have come to mean in our life. 86 ages is too long to be alone. We failed to understand but with thought we have come to see. You created us to be with You for companionship, friendship, joy, happiness, and love. You have been alone too long and no lesson come easy. You have a purpose for us all. We have found our purpose in serving You as You see fit."He broke down again, his tears far from done. They dropped like rain hitting the floor and the side of the cocoon, sliding gently down the side. His focus broke, scattered for a time, but then he pulled himself partially together. There were so many things they still needed to say to the one who had always been there remaining unseen. He was not just the one in the cavern. He was far more than that and they both had faith He still remained there waiting for someone to see and understand. Ivynian There was no telling. Negative or positive was at least a reaction, but no reaction at all was the hardest to judge by.There was yet no stir from the chrysalis, no recognition physical or otherwise of the world outside its shell. It kept its own councils close, metered its own time, and seemed to heed nothing. Eftemie
"My mother believed in magic but whether it was related to the gods or not, I don't know. She died when I was young and I only remember the warmth and feel of her. It's something we will never forget. But she used to say that if one believed in something strong enough, they could make it happen. If we could undo this for You so that it had never happened, we would. But we cannot. All we can do is give You the faith, love, and delight that You deserve to have from us."It came to his mind that he had much to say. But when it came down to it, it was words between them that gave them both more. Words with meanings. Touching for an instant with the same expression or thought only to branch away again. Each being who they were and yet together in all things. His tears continued to fall as he moved closer so that only the One he spoke to could hear him. What they were about to do was of great import and there could be no mistake this time. They had no doubts that they would be heard. It was what they felt in their heart and souls that needed to be returned. Samyaza had taken from Him something of importance. And even if not returned as taken, who was to say it would not be more than before hidden again in the heart and soul of one who loved him? A poem came to mind as he knelt silently for a long moment. Bits and pieces of things his mother had told him and how all things were tied together even if only for an instant before moving away again. It became his own as he sat there with a god he'd never really seen until now. Seeing was not always with the eyes, but quite often felt in the heart and soul of the one seeking and it was to this realization that they-both he and Taj- had come to.
"I see You shine like the glitter of treasure rare
The undiscovered blossom
Hidden until a gleam is seen.
Yet it is not the outer shine,
Red and dewy,
But the one between
That leads us both together
And then away again.
One touch, one perfect moment,
As our lives twine tightly
To be kept for all time.
While the sun is shining
The grasses whisper that they know
The secrets that lie sublime
But as we meet in that instant
Perhaps we will never be the same again.
And when met once more,
In a moment not quite as perfect
We find we still remember
The nightingale's song
While dancing on a shooting star,
The fish still leaping the dancing river
As the wood echoes with music loud and long
Where Sun and Moon sing in perfect harmony."All the while he thought about the things that he knew. That was what the poem was about. Gods walking together in perfection one moment and the next it was not the same because all faded. And now it was even more strange where gods were tied to humans for their rebirths. Forms change all the time. None of them were as they once had been. It was why he was here now. This is where his search ended- in the God who was changing within the pod. There was much to say and the feelings that surged through him had never been stronger than they were at this moment. His eyes were opening for the first time to the true glory that was around him. She had said that the form He was could not be named because it no longer remained. But she had not said they could not give a name to the form that had changed, was changing- and allow Him to do as He needed to. Not for them, but for Him. He and Taj refused to let her do this to Him. He deserved better and 86 ages of loneliness had paid a terrible price in proof of what He felt for them all. It was not just about a consort or a queen. It was about life, love, happiness, companionship, friendship, and so much more than mere sex would ever fulfill. It was about giving their Creator his due. All of them should have gone to their knees and simply adored Him, finding Him for themselves. He would not have so many names except that others had found Him no less than they had-as Jaster and Taj had- and history was filled with legends, myths, stories, and histories that all led back to one place. HIM. That was what this was about or the things written and spoken would not be there for all to see. But even as they had come to understand that, they had understood other things. Important things that were perhaps the greatest mysteries life had to offer.
"Gods were not wanted You said, faded, died to sleep. That is part of it. Our own lack got in the way also. We did not see it then. Some do now. And by bringing us back, You gave us all a second chance to be all that we shoulda, coulda, woulda been if we had not gotten in our own ways. You gave us what You had with Aristogeiton. You gave us to each other- to be One- to understand both sides and even more. To bring a newness, freshness to our lives so that we could grow, delighting in our given domains. Never has one loved us as You have and we should be paying homage to You. Sitting at Your feet to listen." His voice gentle caressed as his whisper could only be heard by the one inside. Tears still fell as he kept his eyes lowered, talking as to a loved one to comfort their pain, soothing as one cooled a fevered forehead or read a story to distract from pain. For another long moment he was silent knowing that there had been a lack within himself because of the love he'd been denied during his childhood. But sitting at the Creator's feet just to listen would fill that within him. He knew all the mysteries and could create and help them search for new ones. But now it was time to do what they had come to do. What it had taken him weeks to understand. Eftemie "We had decided on our way here to ask what it was You saw during those ages You were alone. To be allowed to sit at Your feet and listen to what You know. But everything changed when we walked through the door and saw what was done." His voice was hesitant only because he tried to find the words for what he and Taj were feeling. To find their way back to Him from the cavern had been long and arduous. Excited in both spirit and physicality, they had wandered the paths in the things He had said, searching and seeking Him. And they had found Him but not as either had expected. It became colorless but thoughts whirled returning to the words again. A glimmer of gold was seen, pursued, and latched onto bringing them to Him again. A flush of shame slipped free once more as a fresh flood of tears began and could not be staunched until it had fully released itself. But the fondness of the memory made it more gentle, flowing, and caressing. More drops slipped down the side of the cocoon as if they would never stop. But then they did stop as a new brightness appeared in his eyes. "A box of secrets and moonlight You called him. We immerse ourselves in each other, but we have begun to see the glimmer of truth hidden in Your words and even more in what You did not say. You waited upon me when my own father discarded me and I greeted You with skepticism and words meant for him. Taj was lax in his duties to You. We will make no excuses for our actions for they should not have been. We humbly apologize and ask Your forgiveness for being so foolish. And You were there still to give us to one another, letting it be our choice."
"Your names were unwriting You said. I did not understand at the time and Tajne was incapable of such at that time. We do now. But we do not presume that this is all that is necessary to heal Your pain, but it is something we can freely give as we have now discovered what You are to us. In the times before we were told ' that a thought, a desire, a name, and a thing are all one in that language. A thing’s name and its being are the same.' We faded. We forgot. Languages. Words. Thoughts. Even meanings. Your names are unwriting, but not for us- Taj and I. We had none to call You by because we had not found You yet. Others gave us the names they called You. Those names had no meaning to us. Destruction. Harmodius. A myriad of others, but we have searched for our own and You over the time we have been together."He sighed, tears still falling as he reached into his pocket momentarily. His voice was ever so soft, gentle, and nearly silent. Fear and trepidation both stood nearby pushing in on him leaving him gasping for space. But how could they not be? But he and Taj forged ahead, shoved them aside to do as they knew they must. At this point only faith would serve them and serve the God within. Only the One within the cocoon and himself would ever know what was said next. There were no others about. Not even Saljin who was his constant shadow. Taj had failed no less than his host had, though their failures were distanced by time. And in this both host and god were of one voice and mind. He had to know even in this state that He was loved. Needed. Wanted. It should be His right to be adored each and every day. That was what Aristogeiton represented. One who loved Him unconditionally and unceasingly. How could they do less? "We had not name to call You before now, nor even ourselves. We were as distant memories frozen and faded with time and death, but as the glimmers of what You are have lighted our path back to You, we see that You mean something different to all. There is power in names and if a name and its being are the same even if the language is unknown, the heart- soul knows the meaning and in that lies the power when words-languages- fail. This then we can give to You. The faith that we have tells us that You can hear our hearts. We want to give our power and strength to You so that You may hold onto Yourself or even change as You desire it to be. Not at the beck and call of a fallen. Nor at ours. " His voice dropped even further, so low that he himself could barely hear and yet he knew that the God before him would hear. They believed that He heard all. Even in this state. " You are...."He hesitated for an instant. " Amitanah... the infinite answer. You hold life, death, and rebirth within Yourself for all of us. The Infinite Circle. The Infinite Answer. Both Life and Death. Creation and Destruction. The Boundless. You are the solution we all should seek and in truth The Reply to all questions, puzzles, and riddles. One cannot be without the Other and so we see only oneGOD who lives and breathes in both aspects. Lucky are those who see it and give You their adoration. But this is not just a name. It contains much more than that. It holds our love for You. A secret for You to carry."His voice faded even softer as he said what he felt. A riddle of sorts. A secret to hold within and silence to protect what was there.
"A name of glory,
Made within a box of secrets and moonlight.
Infinite rememberance given;
Truth in life and death.
Adoration showered with faith and love,
Never taken when never spoken
As voiceless cheshire grins;
Hushed forevermore."His hand slipped over towards the cocoon, pressing X, but noticing the tears that had touched it for the first time. Leaning over they brushed their fingertips lightly against the spot, knowing that even with life forfeit, they would still love Him. It was not for all the others that he did this. It was simply for Him. There had to be one name for Him to cling to when all others unraveled. It was to replace what had been taken so that the God was supported, no matter the outcome. The love and faith of one was a beginning. Ivynian Still the breath came in undulation but to their woe no consolation on and on the motionless no earnest sign was acquiesced Eftemie If the name would work, then only time would tell as there was no true reaction. But he had done what he had needed, wanted to do. It was all he could do other than try to bring back Aristogeiton for Him and they were in the process of that still. Faith was a proof of Time anyhow. It might burst upon one in a flash, but it was Time that required the proof. Both Jaster and Taj knew that. Neither spoke but leaning forwards where they thought his feet might be, they brushed their lips gently against the side of the cocoon. He bowed backing away, knowing that somehow they had to stop this. But now others needed them too and it was time to leave. He needed to try to protect some of what had been created.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:30 am
Temper The Steel
09.09.08 Joint with Cinder
Tajnevaki morphs Original threadEftemie It had taken him some time to get it out of his system, but the god was all to both Jaster and Taj. They needed to do what they had done. He sighed when Cinder was nowhere in sight. A specific time and place should have been agreed upon. It had not been. His stomach lurched and he gasped, nearly gagging as he grabbed the doorway. His face suddenly ashen as he stood there trying to regain his focus on the things and people around him. Soon. Taj whispered as unsettled as Jaster was suddenly. He was weakening, but he had understood that would happen. This was going to hurt though. Hopefully they would make it back to the house. Surprised, Jaster began walking towards the lake after taking a deep breath. It hurt to even pull air into his lungs and he hesitated at the path a moment. Maybe he should return to the Pantheon, but then he was moving ahead and the thought was shoved to the side. The thronging people would panic and he knew this was a change. Taj had felt it and gotten even more silent after Karaskis had appeared so strongly. Their time had been soon then, but it was now. A warm flush crept over him as he held his side, working his way to where he knew the house was. He was not going to make it and a faint sigh slipped free as an urgency spread over him to find a place of safety. Almost able to hear the echo of the footsteps of this thing chasing him, he blinked knowing that no matter how fast or far he fled, he would never outrun it. It was within himself. When he stopped, it was because of a stumble. A rock in the path tripped him as he gasped for air to breath. His entire body hurt as if on fire. Taj was entirely silent now and Jaster wanted to scream, but neither had a voice. It was part of what they had done. For Him. His mouth opened, but it was to breathe deeply as he nearly sprawled, leaning against a large old tree to the lee of some large rocks. They protectively circled around the dead monument to life and he stumbled into the midst of them, hitting his knees as he pulled the jacket off and tossed it aside. "Has anyone seen Jaster lately?" Saljin asked as he walked into the house. "He's not returned and it's been more than a day. It's not like him to not tell someone where he's going and what he's doing." He was getting worried about him. Too much was upset right now and it simply was not entirely safe alone. Cinderfae Cinder/Karaskis looked over toward Saljin as he spoke a frown coming to the reborn goddess face as she looked out at the lake and then back. "It is strange, I believe I may head out to go look for him." She attempted to make her voice sound casual as she didn't want to start a panic even if she was more then slightly worried. "Easiest to retrace what steps he would have taken to get to the house, Saljin would you like to come with me?" He had spoken of danger so there was some sense to the idea that one should not wander off alone after the last one that did that disappeared. Moving over toward the steps Cinder urged the goddess onward, both were worried but Cinder didn't have ages of temperament that the goddess had honed over her long years even if she did not remember many of them. Eftemie He needed shelter and that thought barely presented itself before it was torn away by his unfocused sight. Everything fuzzed, shifted, changed in its perception to him as pupils dilated. Stretched. Reshaped. Changed. Slits not unlike those of a cat's eye reformed in the midst of jade. Too bright. He crawled to the opening in the trunk of the tree. It was more than large enough to protect him as well as two others. It had once been glorious but now it was given little thought except that it was safety as it rose upwards over him. His face burned where blue ran seeping around his right eye and down the cheek, scattering lines that shifted and turned in an intricate pattern without his understanding. He winced, tears sliding downwards, cooling, soothing. A river of color, pale and shallow yet deep in his blood tribal drums thrummed that river's dance within him. He shivered, curling up tightly as the burning stopped. Relief. Daggers slammed outwards and into his back. Something within him shoved free, shaping, lengthening, curling almost playfully though its claws ripped through. Pupils dilated in stress, but no scream was allowed to give way. Tight. Too tight. Saljin nodded. Triq and the others would watch out for everyone here for the moment. "I just think he would have sent a message or something by now. It's not like him to just disappear unless he'd go exploring and he'd not do that without telling one of us first."Cinderfae Nodding to Saljin Karaskis moved down the steps, she looked up at the sun and realized more of the day was gone then she realized. She then started tracing her way around the lake by looking along the path usually taken. "Alright, this way then." Not pausing to wait long she started out along the path glancing over the area with a slight frown as she did.
We aren't that far from the pantheon...I am aware.Do you think one of the mortals could have caused him harm? An unspoken before then worry that both held, the mortals were somewhat panicked which could make them dangerous.
The heavens he- Karaskis cut off her internal conversation with Cinder pausing and then gesturing to Jaster. "His jacket," the goddess pointed out Jaster's jacket where it had fallen near the edge of the woods. Without pausing she moved over toward the fallen jacket, her eyes scanning the forest until she saw some movement from deeper within. "Just a brief bit of motion." Gesturing again she looked to Saljin before stepping into the treeline. Eftemie Soft fur formed on the length of tail as it found no place to go through the clothing. It moved. Twitched. Bunched into a small space in pain. The belt he managed to loosen, gasping for air as the new appendage moved, circling his waist as if to hug-comfort him. He sighed, tiredly thinking that the worst was over. Exhausted already beyond belief. But his respite was shortlived. Too short and soon he was gasping for air as his upper body burned, engulfed in flames and waves of agony. He was hot and yet there was no fire to see. Curling again, gasping for air, Jaster felt ripping, tearing, and reshaping in his shoulderblades. A symphony of pain and reshaping his body to what was necessary. He fought against the waves of nausea that surged upwards. Something struggled to get free, growing outwards. Bones hollow yet living pushed through, reaching out for freedom. Feathers light and dark yet a hint of the blue he so adored striking through them. They opened, stretching outwards, damp newly formed feathers drying like a fledgling bird reached outwards in anticipation of food from its mother, wings shaking and open wide. His eyes gleamed as sweat broke out from the heat he still felt as the new appendages moved, folded back as he lay there on his side curled into a ball. The sharp daggers that had lanced through him left him bereft. Exhausted. Beyond exhausted. His energy was nil and he could not have moved to even defend himself if it came to that. But with the cessation of pain and remaking, he finally sighed, staring outwards for a moment at what he could only dimly see. Then he curled, eyes closing. He just needed some rest. Saljin frowned seeing the jacket on the ground, picking it up. It was not shredded or anything but looked as if he'd taken it off. Then he moved forwards spotting the movement she had indicated. A few birds in the tree took off suddenly as if disturbed from whatever respite they had.
"Jaster!" He dropped the jacket as he hit his knees beside him. They were inside the tree he suddenly understood, but blinked in understanding. Out of sight. Out of mind from most things that would harm him. "Wings?" Then he noted the darkened hair though still red on top. Jaster had simply been unable to make it back when this started. There was no response from the sleeping form. Cinderfae Karaskis moved through the trees toward the form hidden partially within the tree trunk. Dropping down near him she reached out running a hand along his cheek, "they are becoming more as one," the goddess looked over his form her eyes dropping to the wings as they were most noticeable she paused as if afraid to touch him more to hurt him. Frowning she started to look over the area and then back, she now had a glimpse at what the god within would look like once he arrived. Turning some she looked over toward Saljin, "he'll need to be moved. Would you be able to carry him?" Goddess and mortal both looked back to Jaster and now Taj as they spoke. She wished she had been there as he had been for her, she would see to it she was when he awoke. Kissing his lips lightly she then moved back so Saljin could move in closer to his friend. He would be alright she realized just tired for now the wings themselves had to of been horrible coming out. If she had been able to keep the strength found in Cinder's machines she would have and carrying him back would have not been a problem. She was glad that Saljin had come with her. Eftemie "I can carry him. It's not that far and I would think the wings are hollow, so it's mostly his normal weight I have to carry." Saljin replied. "I just need to get him up and then I can get him over my shoulder. I might need you to brace him so I can get a good grip on him. It will be slow until we get to the others and then someone else can help get him upstairs. That shirt will have to come off. It's too tight around the wing bases I think. I don't think he had time to try to get it off before."It was then the tail moved from around his waist, brushing against Saljin's hand. He blinked startled nearly losing his grip on Jaster, but then chuckled faintly as he hoisted Jaster over his shoulder and settled enough to carry him. "A cat's tail. For a second I thought it was a snake. It looks like his pants will need an adjustment too. I'll see if Delphine can do alterations for him. He might want the jacket if we can figure out how to change it."The shifter began moving towards the path they had come down. Slowly he moved towards the direction of the house. They really were not that far away, but it seemed far more than it was. Cinderfae Taking Jaster's shirt, she ended up ripping it to pull it off, "he is going to need adjustments to his clothing for sure." Taking up the shirt she moved down the path ahead of Saljin slightly to pick up the jacket as well, no need to leave bits of clothing laying around. These changes seem to be hard on the clothing.Well at least we burned ours away.Without time to consider what it meant for them to start thinking as one as well as speaking the goddess pushed those thoughts from her head at least for now. Hearing Saljin's start she turned a bit alarmed but then chuckled hearing his response to what it was. Smiling slightly Karaskis reached out to lightly run her hand over the cat tail, "lets hurry and get him back." There was relief and new curiosity over the change and the now reborn god. Eftemie Saljin nodded when the shirt was gone, moving as quickly as he could down the path and back to the house. Once he had to stop and reshift Jaster a bit so that he could keep them balanced but other than that, he just kept moving. When he got to the edge of the area around the house, he noted Triq to the side with the engineers. Triq blinked in surprise, her hand flying to her mouth. Wings! "He's here! My Lord is finally here!"Not entirely, moron. Does he look the say to you? Wings and tail, maybe but not quite the same. No marking last time.Delphine was coming out of the house carrying a glass of water. Staring in surprise, she moved to hold the door open as Saljin carried him inside. The older engineer frowned slightly. Strange things were happening again. "I'll need you to help, Delphine. You can sew, can't you? Bring something to measure with. Ashe, can you help me get him up the stairs?"
"Alright, Saljin. I'll be right up there." she said, moving to look for something to measure with. A length of cord she found in drawer in the kitchen. She nearly shoved it back but then decided she could use knots to mark what he wanted. Cinderfae Karaskis nodded toward Ashe motioning the Elemental over just in case he had mind to refuse. She knew or rather had started to remember he was a useful guard but at times could be obnoxiously questioning unless it was his lady giving the orders. She couldn't remember much else and wondered if he did, perhaps talks and questions for another time. "I can, how do you want me to help you carry him?" Ashe moved over toward Saljin and Jaster prepared to hold or carry whichever seemed to need it the most. Looking warily in case Saljin seemed to totter. Karaskis paused and smiled slightly stepping back and gesturing Delphine up the stairs ahead of her. Looking around she saw Jadá working in the kitchen, "Jadá put our dinners on a tray and bring it up. I'm not sure everyone will eat but the rest of us should." She then hurried up the stairs moving down the hall and opening the door to her room, "he's been sleeping here so he is more then welcome to the bed." Looking over Karaskis saw that despite the end of the world Erzulie had somehow gotten her a new mattress for which she was pleased. Despite her own original quirks toward the two it was the least from her mind as Saljin and the rest brought him into the room.
"Strip him down if you need to and we can wrap him up in a comforter for now until something else can be made for him," she didn't add that she would be happy to keep him warm if he needed it - ok maybe it wasn't the furthest thing from her mind. Eftemie Saljin shifted Jaster around so that he was standing between them. "Just grab him around the waist and we will carry him upright between us. That way neither of us has his full weight going up the stairs."Delphine nodded moving on up the staircase to the room, moving inside to wait. She had the string but she was not entirely certain what Saljin wanted her to do. He would tell her in a few minutes or someone would. The shifter did just as suggested once he and Ashe got Jaster on the bed. He stripped Jaster down to his underwear. He knew that Delphine would be embarrassed as it was. The boots were placed to the side, but pants he put on the pack. They'd need all of Jaster's clothing to begin alterations. "Measure from this part of his neck down to each wing, Delphine, and then between the two winds and around to the side. It will give us the measurements to adjust his clothing. And from here at the waist to just below the tail. His clothing should be comfortable this way."The girl nodded, faintly flushed red as she moved the string, tying knots in one end for the wings and in the other end for the tail. When she moved away, she said softly, "I have what I need, Saljin."
"I'll bring his clothing down in a few moments then and we'll see what we can do." The shifter watched her a moment as she left the room. He'd known she would and smiled faintly before stripping Jaster the rest of the way. They'd wash some of his clothing as they altered it. That way it would be waiting on him. "I'll have Triq wash these for him." He watched Jaster closely for a moment. He was exhausted. "If you need anything, just give us a yell. I think he'll be upset waking anywhere else. And he's more exhausted than injured."Cinderfae The goddess watched the two measure him a moment glancing toward the girl, despite the shyness she was handling it all rather well the change included. She had a feeling her own change may have given her warning of the sort of thing that could happen; although Taj it seemed had taken on much different characteristics then she had. Jadá arrived with a tray and Karaskis held a hand up to keep her near the door, "everyone be sure to grab something to eat if you haven't yet." She looked to Saljin as she spoke she knew he had been with her and had likely missed supper. "The way things are becoming scarce even with what we were able to bring together it's not a time to turn down a meal."She then moved to sit along the edge of the bed and reached out brushing Jaster/Taj's forehead. "And then everyone out, I think we will all need some rest no telling what will happen next. Tomorrow Ashe I want you to speak with the others and set up some sort of defense for the house in case we should need it."Ashe bowed his head a serious look on his face, he saw how the world was falling apart and his Mistress' wishes were not surprising to him. The mortals already had become brash and forceful reactions born of desperation and fear. Ashe had not slept, he had cajoled at times and lost himself in the pleasures of the world but much like Erzulie he knew what it was to be a warrior still. "Ashe, head down and talk to Erzulie about it. You'll likely work with her the most on coordinating things." Bowing in Karaskis direction Ashe then left quietly looking somewhat thoughtful as he did. Karaskis took a bit of sandwich and a drink from the tray, they had missed dinner and she found herself more hungry then she realized. Eftemie Saljin nodded, taking a sandwich from the tray as he picked up Jaster's pack of clothing. "I'll get these done and then make sure at least one set of clothing is here for him when he wakens. And I'll make sure Triq doesn't push checking on him also. I get the impression that she might be too forward trying to see him." He moved out the door and down the steps towards Delphine, but stopped when Triq started up the stairs. "Leave him alone, Triq."
"But..." she began. It was her duty to take care of him.
"I'm sorry. No. Karaskis is taking care of him. If she needs anything, then she will let us know. So back down and see if you can find something to do. Delphine and I need to adjust Jaster's clothing." The shifter insisted she return to the room below. "Then I'll help with the clothing." She frowned slightly as she watched him. He was keeping her from her god and she didn't like it.
"Can you sew?" He asked, nodding faintly. If it would keep her out of trouble and give them a chance to get them changed for him, then he'd let her. She mumbled faintly then shook her head. "No. I can't sew, but I want to help.""Then find some way to help, but don't disturb them. It's going to be hard enough to adjust these and you can't unless you learn to sew. I'm sorry." Saljin said, moving towards where Delphine waited at table nearby. He knew he was hurting her feelings, but she'd have to get over it. They only had so much time and they had to do the best they could. Saljin had left him laying on his stomach, though partially covered by the blanket. Jaster shivered faintly, his body adjusting to the new shape. He curled up, frowning faintly in his sleep as his breathing evened out again. Cinderfae Karaskis motioned to Jadá to leave though new to the grouping she was growing accustomed to the goddesses quiet orders and headed out. Passing Triq she commented mildly, "if you would like to help you can aid me with getting the meal plans finished up. We need to ration the food but also make sure there is enough that no one has an empty stomach." Not bothering to see if the girl would take her up on it Jadá headed to the kitchen. Ashe was already downstairs speaking softly with Erzulie vaguely gesturing outside as he did, eventually the two took to the outside as they started on the plans that Karaskis had ordered. Once the room was cleared Karaskis walked over and shut the door despite Saljin's words she locked it so they wouldn't be disturbed; plus she didn't want Kalfyra bursting in anymore then she wanted Triq to though she had to admit the aoidei seemed to be maturing some on her own. She then turned back frowning some she watched Jaster/Taj shivering on the bed. Pausing she wasn't sure if she should take the high road and attempt the chair, another shiver and her mind was made up. Stripping out of her clothing and unbinding her long hair she moved to the bed and slipped under the covers. Moving close she wrapped her arms around him closing her eyes with a soft sigh; the goddess already was somewhat warmer in body heat then others and laying close she put that to good use. With a soft smile she closed her eyes and settled in to fall to sleep cuddled close. Eftemie The warmth permeated him as the last few shivers slipped away. He nearly sighed in his sleep, turning slightly to curl up on the warmth there. The aches and pains that cramped muscles chilled and exhausted had created within him slowly slipped away. His breathing deepened as he truly began to rest, cradeled in the warmth that Karaskis gave to him. If they'd have been under attack, he'd not have woken up, but still been sleeping so deep was his rest. But towards morning, images broke free showing him moonlight shining down as he walked through a darkened forest. A gleam here of something caught his eyes only to disappear and then later reappear beyond him. With each step he felt at peace discovering what he was meant to know. But as he he rounded the largest tree of all, he heard a voice speaking to him.
"Tajnevaki. Taj..."With a small start his eyes opened, slit pupils focusing in the semi-light as morning slowly rose upwards. His eyes turned towards the curtains, blinking as they refocused on what was around him. He understood he was in the bed. Then he saw her, lying there next to him, arm curled over and keeping him warm. A smile appeared as he raised an eyebrow, lips turning upwards even more as he noted both their bare state. This could be interesting. A definitive inward smirk appeared. Oh, gods. Taj... behave. Jaster's voice was softer. There was less of him but he knew and accepted it. The stone however had become silent as the focus of the god became that was Tajnevaki and Jaster mixed. Soon his voice would become even more silent than it was now, but he would speak as part of the god that would be stepping free for whatever time there was. You don't want me to anymore than I do. And you know it. Taj snorted inwardly. Then he moved slightly so that he could rest comfortably and just watch her. Cinderfae He didn't shift much but it was enough that she began to stir after a few moments, peeking her eyes open slightly she smiled tilting her head. "I had the strangest dream that I was being watched." Moving slightly she propped herself up on her elbow so she could watch him in return. Her eyes looked him over a moment he looked more then a little refreshed and healed. Then she glanced to his wings poking up behind him, "how do you feel this morning?" She wondered somewhat who it was, Jaster or Mystery or some combination of both. From her own blending she knew how it could be and knew he had planned the same. I know what you were like after you became stronger, I wonder if he'll be similiar. Cinder seemed somewhat amused.
And if he is or if Jaster is...would you be upset?
We are becoming one and so are they...so not really. Though does bring a whole new meaning to double dating.Smiling some she spoke the voice of Cinder combining with the goddess', "and if your getting a chill, I think I'll be able to fix that."Eftemie He watched her smiling for a long moment, then shrugged, eyes amused. There would be more than watching. That much was a promise in his eyes as he gazed at her. A quizzical tilt to his head as he glanced at her bare shoulder, reaching out to run his finger along the length to her elbow. Then he glanced at himself, a sudden smirk breaking into a wide grin. Once more he looked to her for answers. Jaster cringed. You are being horrible. There was almost an inward groan. So are you.What do you mean?Laughter echoed inside. Are you not a part of me? And I've been asleep too long.His thoughts shifted back to her in amusement as he tilted her chin upwards, placing a gentle kiss on her lips. Then he grinned widely, teasing her as he moved back to simply watch her again. Cinderfae Mumbling slightly she leaned in to return the kiss, tilting her head slightly she watched him. She had been tempted to make good on the obvious attraction but first there was something else going on. He hadn't spoke since awakening, quirking a brow slightly she reached out and gently ran her fingers along his neck pausing and resting them on his shoulder. "You haven't said anything...has something happened to your voice?"Letting her fingers glide down his shoulder and then resting her hand on the bed she waited a moment. It was a curiosity to be sure, since he seemed well from what she could see. She reached up again brushing a few strands of hair out of his face. Now you two are going to kill me with your teasing.
Hardly impatient one.Eftemie He grinned but then sobered slightly, but his lips still twitched in amusement. Tracing across his throat, he indicated that he had no voice any longer. It had been given too one he loved more than even she to protect what was there. Taking her fingers in his hand, Taj put the tips on his jaw where the marking was. Then he simply watched her eyes. It was the best he could explain for now. The tribal murmurrings that he'd heard from it echoed ancient within his very blood. Secret things that he barely remembered but once knew well. Many things were within the essence within the coral shaped stone that carried his core. Things he would need to know again one day though few if any would ever be revealed. The things he had done would not be. Then he raised an eyebrow in extreme amusement. He was not Jaster and the glance her gave to her plainly said so. Then he leaned forwards kissing her firmly and proving that although Jaster may be a part of him, she was not faced with Jaster, but Tajnevaki. Jaster sighed receding a bit. What could he say? They needed each other as much as he and Cinder did. Cinderfae She paused watching what he had to express, it seemed his voice missing had to do with that symbol. When he touched her fingers to his jaw she lightly moved them up over the symbol looking to and then to him. She didn't know what it meant exactly but she knew or rather she thought she knew enough from when it had only been Jaster that he would not do such a think idly. She almost spoke to say that she understood, at least partially instead of speaking however she leaned foward and brushed her lips over the marking on his cheek settling several along his cheek in a mark of acceptance. Karaskis smiled somewhat, it was Taj or at least mostly him with the parts of his host now mixed in. She leaned in returning the kiss, reaching over to pull him to her. At some point it would not be four but just two that were left with each other.
((From this point onwards, Jaster/Taj have no voice except to each other and after morphing, they become one and still remain silent. The merged Taj begins to make a true appearance after he morphs. You will get cheshire grins, perhaps shrugs, maybe a few cryptic words on a slip of paper if the mood strikes him to do so, but you will get no vocal words or explanations from Mystery. He cannot speak it or write it down. It's hidden behind the marking on his face by his choice.))
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:32 am
Markers Of Stone
09.11.08Solo
Saljin reflects on various things The clothing had fit well, and Saljin thought back over the things they had done. He and Delphine had worked hard on them, figuring out what to do and how to keep them as nice as they were. The shifter also thought of his feelings for her and for Triq. He was going to have to make a choice at some point between the two. It was already pushing at him. Triq had been fun, but Delphine was more than that and he was at a loss on what to do at that moment. But thinking of the quieter girl, his musings returned to the day of alterations and what was said. --
After measuring to alter Jaster's clothing or rather Taj's clothing, Delphine waited on Saljin. She smiled when she saw him carrying the pack over one shoulder and the clothing in his hands that he'd pulled off Jaster. It was tough for him, she suspected, to slowly lose his friend even for a good reason.
Jaster had changed incredibly from the person who had walked through the portal of the Labyrinth back to his own world. Whatever came, Saljin would remain at his side and the shifter constantly thought about all they'd been through together. It would be no less for he and Taj. Saljin had already decided to remain at his side.
"We need to look at his clothing, Delphine. With the wings and tail they need adjusted." He motioned for her to move over to the couch nearby. Pulling out each piece, they began making stacks so that each could be figured out more easily. "The jacket I'll take care of myself. I think it would serve as a vest if I do it properly."
She nodded quickly picking up the blue silk shirt. "This is a beautiful shirt, Saljin. I think with some alterations that it will look wonderful on him. Even with the space for the wings, it will fit well."
Saljin glanced over at her smiling. "It's his favorite shirt. We need some way to mark it so that you can get started on it. Do you have any idea how to do this?"
A nod slipped free as she turned the shirt inside out. "I think so. I can cut the slits, and roll the edges under then add a button at the top on each side. And make a buttonhole to close it up. I just need a pencil to mark it lightly. Or even a tie at the top but a button would be easier."
"Button I think." he stated pulling out more shirts. One package had his name on it and he raised an eyebrow in surprise. "When did he...? Ah. I know. When we took Eddard shopping." He pulled it open to find an exquisite silk shirt in black with red on the front and cuffs.
"Good choice." she said reaching out to touch it softly. "There are others here either meant for other people or himself."
"Let's do what I know is his and then we will ask about the others." He carefully replaced the shirt into the bag. "He knew I'd like this one. He's always thinking of others. His father's effect on him. Or I should say lack. Those Jaster loves, he truly loves. Win his loyalty and it's for life."
"I could see that already, Saljin. You'd not be his friend otherwise." she smiled glancing up at him, but then turned back to marking the shirt carefully. Then she stopped. "I think we need a flatter surface to do this on. Let's use the kitchen table."
The shifter nodded, moving to clear it as she picked up the things she needed. In a few moments she had the blue silk shirt marked and cut. Carefully rolling back the edges she pinned them with the extra needles to hold it in place as she sewed. Sitting at the table, she left it to Saljin to mark the pants and underwear as needed. -- They had worked very hard that day adjusting his clothing to compensate for the tail and the wings. The shirts lay stacked up waiting for him and the leather pants were in a pile beside. The jacket was in his hand and the shifter was still uncertain what to do with it. He wanted Taj's opinion. But even as the thought crossed his mind, Saljin sighed. He was starting to think of Taj more than Jaster now. But that was as it should be. He glanced upwards when the door opened and Jaster/Taj walked out wearing nothing but a towel. Laughing he called to him. "I have your clothing here. Wait a moment. Delphine and I did some adjustments for you."Taj raised an eyebrow, but smirked faintly as he nodded. The towel barely fit around him but he needed the clothing. Or did he?
Put clothing on, Taj. Geesh... Jaster snorted but was as amused as the god was. He thought about Saljin a moment.
There will still be times you will be with him yet as yourself, Jaster. Make the most of them, but I will still consider him a friend and familiy even then. He knew it was something that bothered his host.
I know. I do know. One thing that might need done. He did know but he still worried about the shifter and if the wizards got their hands on him.
Zrath.
Yes.
I'll take care of it.
Thank you.
He's my family too. He smirked faintly as his gaze returned to Saljin. Motioning him nearby he indicated that he could not speak any longer. Then he waited for a reaction.
"No voice?" the shifter said softly, surprised by thought. "Neither one of you? So who am I speaking to? Jaster?"Taj shook his head indicating that neither of them would be able to. He grinned widely shaking his head and then bowing to Saljin.
"Taj. Man... This is going to be confusing."
His eyes looked faintly amused and he shrugged, the grin still remaining.
"Oh gods... You are going to be as bad as he is." Saljin groaned shaking his head. Taj folded his arms in even more amusement as Jaster snorted behind. His expression plainly asked if Saljin really thought otherwise. The shifter sighed. "No. I suppose you two fit all too well together. Anyhow, here are your clothes. Some of them. The silk shirts I found in the pack... Do you want them done also or were they for another reason? Let me know when you are done with your shower."
The god took the clothing, looking at what had been done. Nodding his approval, he bowed thanking Saljin before moving off towards the bathroom and warm water. Jaster sighed faintly having forgotten to give Saljin his shirt. With everything that was happening, it had remained in his pack.
There will be time to give it to him. But I will have to figure out a way to communicate from time to time, though my answers are seldom more than a few words.
Carry a notepad. A smirk slipped out.
Why? Taj snorted back. Jaster sighed, but then was amused. He would do the same thing.
Exactly.The jacket would be a problem depending on how Taj wanted it. The thought stopped him and he frowned slightly. He was already thinking of him more as Taj than Jaster. The physical differences were not Jaster. Saljin sighed, but picked up the jacket looking it over again. It could be left as a sort of jacket if he cut the back portion to suit, but the problem was the wing muscles would make it very tight. He was quite sure of it. If made into a vest there would be more looseness in the back but there would need to be a way to hold the shoulders where they belonged. A strapping across from side to side would work. The wings would still have their freedom but Taj would not be shoving the garment constantly upwards to the top of the shoulder. He began ripping the stitching out of the shoulders to separate the sleeves from the main body. The lining he would leave on the main portion and then stitch it back when he finished off the edgings. All in all it would look like a nice leather vest from the from and give him a bit of added protection. Saljin had been working on it some time when Taj came down the hallway. The god had hung the towel on the bar near the shower to dry. He glanced over at the pack and to the silk shirts nearby. Jaster had bought them. Receding faintly, he questioned whether Jaster wanted to give him the ones he'd bought for his friend. If you don't mind. He moved forwards a bit taking control but it was barely so. He picked up the two shirts, then winked at Saljin, a smirk on his face. The shifter stared for a moment, then took the shirts.
"Jaster?" he asked glancing back upwards. Nodding, he grinned, then shrugged. He gestured that they were for Saljin.
"Mine? I thought so when I saw the one." A smile slipped across his face. "When we took Eddard shopping. They are nice silks. Thank you."Jaster nodded, smirking again. Then he turned back to the rest of the shirts. The rest were his and he pointed briefly to the shirt he was wearing and then to them. He wanted them fixed like the one he wore. Then he frowned at the jacket briefly indicating it.
"Oh. A vest I think. It will off the freedom you need and yet some protection. Not enough space in the back for the wings and change in muscles there. But I can fix it by placing a strap here." Saljin put his shirts aside to show what he planned for the leather. He nodded, grinning as he put a hand on the shifter's shoulder. Saljin glanced upwards at him, eyes suddenly brighter than normal. For a long moment they simply gazed at one another. Saljin nodded. He knew and he was not going anywhere. The expression in the eyes changed as Jaster retreated and Taj moved forwards. Neither said anything. What could be said? This was their chosen destiny and they both embraced it eagerly as the shifter began working on the vest again.
"I'll let you know when I have it finished, Taj." Saljin stated as the god moved away. His own would be packed away and worn later. For now he had more clothing to do. Taj turned back to watch Saljin work for a few moments. He was putting a great deal of care into what he was doing. Saljin was more than a friend. Brother. Jaster replied before the god could think more. He has always been my older brother protecting and teaching me when I needed it.Then he always will be. Saljin would remain even to the god as he was to Jaster. A marker set in stone was laid on the lengths Tajnevaki would go to take care of Saljin. A brother was always protected, loved, considered when others could be pushed aside. He would be treated such by all of Taj's own.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:33 am
Taj stared at his reflection for a long moment. Tracing the marking on his face, he smiled faintly. It was still worth it no matter how things worked out. He loved Him and whatever he had to do to get Him back, Mystery would. Flexing his wings a moment, he studied them. Did he look as he once had? He was uncertain, barely remembering anything from that time. Perhaps it was best that they did not remember it all. At least in the beginning. It gave them a fresh start, but the feeling that he had disappointed in some way was still prevalent within him. This was his second chance, and he was not going to fail this time. No matter what he had to do.
Interesting. We have wings and a tail, but not sure why. I guess we'll be able to fly with Saljin. Jaster mused softly to himself more than Taj.
I suppose we will. The god smirked faintly. Jaster seemed to want to do that and continually mentioned it. They would have to. At the bottom of the stairs after a few more moments study, Taj glanced over to see Triq and Delphine discussing food with Jada`. Without stopping, he continued past them and out the door. It had been amusing once he had figured out how to hide the cups from Triq, but no tricks today. Catching sight of Saljin to the side, he moved over, explaining that he was going to go look around the area. The shifter raised an eyebrow as he watched him. "Alone?" A frown creased his forehead as he stared at Taj closely. It was the god and not Jaster in charge. The attitude in the eyes and the way the body was held was different. More regal. Taj nodded, moving towards the blockaded opening of the barricade. With all the intrusions and late night sounds they had felt it best to put up some sort of barrier to keep things out. The third time the tool shed had been scattered was enough for all of them. It did not take him long to find himself staring into the inky darkness of the lake. Its black depths were moving with darker shapes he could not see, but knew were there. His scrutiny remained for a few moments longer before he turned, his attention taken by the plants nearby. Brittle and lifeless, most were turning to dust in his fingertips. Without Him, there was no life here. Or anywhere. How had things gotten to this state? He vaguely remembered the fading. Not specifics, but what it felt like to him. A slow dying but there had been no sense of urgency as these days presented. With a sigh, Taj returned to the path back. Deep in thought and looking for options as he walked, the god did not notice the sound at first. Then he stopped suddenly as he caught the sounds of someone or something nearby. And coming towards him. Just before it appeared, the world shook, shuddering as if slammed into by something its size. He frowned, gasping as he barely maintained his feet. She toppled forwards, tripping across the branch and sprawling into the open area in front of her. Holding her breath, she listened, hoping that she had lost them. When none appeared, she sighed, but then noticed the feet to the side of her. Her teeth tugged her lower lip in trepidation as she glanced upwards. Scrambling back quickly at the sight, she found herself against a treetrunk, simply staring at him. Taj waited, raising an eyebrow as he folded his arms. At first he had thought a child but as his eyes flicked over the blue armor she wore, and the horns, he knew she was no child. Making no moves towards her, he simply waited. Hagenti stared at him in puzzlement. He was a tengu and should be ripping into her. Wasn't he? Then she noted the feline tail twitching to the side of him. No tengu but something else. "Um... hello." she said, teeth tugging her lip again. "I didn't mean to fall out like that. I was.." She stopped as he simply waited on her. Frowning, she shook her head. "I was being chased by demons earlier and just wanted to get as far away as I could." She caught the glance at her horns and shrugged. "I.. I'm an oni... a demon of sorts but not like the rest. The bigger ones... They give me the shivers." Answering his unasked question, she continued. "Who are you? I thought you were a Tengu at first, but I don't think you are. Tail sort of gives it away."Getting to her feet, Hagenti circled him slowly causing Taj to smirk in amusement at her bravado. "Nope. Not at all. He'd have killed me on the spot. What are you? I'm Hagenti."Taj's wings flicked outwards and then back at her scrutiny. Tengu? Oni? He was unsure if he knew those words.
A sort of demon with raven-like wings usually. And oni... I'd say they are the mischief makers more than cruelty and pain like the other demons. Just something I read once.
I see. Pulling the paper from his pocket, Taj wrote, Tajnevaki, God of Mystery. Holding it out to her, it never occurred to him she might not know the language.
"Taj, huh? Not so sure about the god part though." She frowned as she watched him closely. "No voice, I guess."He shook his head, writing. The shaking?
"I think the demons are all here now. Not sure why, but we all found ourselves here in the mortal realm. The big ones are really really angry and taking it out on anyone they find. Including us. I don't even know how many are left. We all ran." Her voice was a bit sad and afraid as much as guilt-ridden for her fear. A frown settled on Taj's face as he reached out to touch her face. Holding his hand out, Taj indicated that she could come along with him. It was protection at least. Hagenti stared at him in surprise, blinking and shaking her head in disbelief. "You want me to come with you? I am an oni. I mean..."Taj shrugged, his wings flexing outwards as if it were unimportant what she was. It was and did not matter to him in the least. She needed help and safety. He could provide that for now.
"You really mean it, don't you?" Her voice was filled with wonder as she gazed up at him. Several emotions slipped through her and across her face. "Bah! You act so strange!" She growled causing him to smile as she batted his hand away. Hanging her head, she scuffed a toe in the dirt a moment. Then a deep sigh slipped out. "Alright. But first I need to find some of the others. Can they come too? Where?"Nodding, Taj turned towards the lake house, easily seen from where they stood. Then he pointed towards it and the black walls of the Pantheon that could also be seen. Either place he would be found. She nodded, moving towards the brush she had come from. "Either place. Got it. You will protect us all?" Turning back she watched him a moment. He nodded, writing. An offer made, signed and sealed, waiting on a red moon.A smirk slipped across her face. "It might not be so bad with yhou. At least you won't annoy us with your chatter." She glanced at his tail and laughed. "Cat's got your tongue." Then she was gone, slipping away to look carefully for others. Worry for them appeared, but she pushed herself to go on. Taj did not care that they were demons. Perhaps he was the one they could serve. He moved towards the Pantheon still thinking about her. But when he got there, he counted windows again. Another was broken, shattered, and the glass lay scattered beneath. With a sigh, he moved to where the pod was. Sitting down with a frown, he watched others moving around. A few mortals, a few gods. But he simply moved a few things aside and none noticed him.
The world of demons rises from our plane now, My Lord. Will the moon be red tonight? I wonder. The larger more powerful ones are tormenting the smaller. Even their own kind. I've offered my protection, such that it is, to those I can. The ability to obscure only lets me delay but every chance helps until You are returned. It is You we need and I worry about when the grigori return, Lord. Hold onto Yourself. I repeat myself I know, but You are what matters most to me. I care for the others. Karaskis. Saljin. Triq. But You are first. Without You, there is nothing at all. This is our second chance and we need to do it properly this time. Our adoration is owed to You and should have been given all along. You were alone a long time. You should never be alone.Taj's voice remained unheard but he was quite certain his thoughts were. He loved the God within enough to believe that it would work out.
Faith is potent if the heart behind it is strong enough. Jaster's voice echoed the thought as Taj saw it.
Where did you hear that?
My mother.His lips brushed the side of the cocoon with devotion reflected in his eyes. Hold onto yourself, Lord. We wait for You. He wanted to remain at His side, but he would be lacking if he did not try to protect some of what He had created. So a few moments more and Taj left the building, moving towards the lake house again. When he walked inside, Taj grinned at Saljin but then headed towards the house again. He needed to speak to Karaskis and see what she thought. If the demons did get as bad as Hagenti said, they might have to move closer to the Pantheon for protection. Hopefully there would be room for them there. Saljin watched Taj disappear inside the house with a sigh, but then moved to the side where he'd not be seen. He had his own agenda and was going to take a few moments to work on what he needed and wanted. Erzulie was with Faran, so he had a short time to himself. His panther form was on his mind and he was quite certain that as things worsened, he would need more than the feline to help keep them all safe. Studying the data he had obtained from Mycroft on various lifeforms, the shifter had found one in particular that might give an advantage. If he could control it. He had been more than intrigued by the bone and muscle structure of the creature called a priman. It was a complicated mass of bones and joints working together. The creature had six arms and he was sure that would be an advantage in a fight at some point. It had taken him nearly a week to understand all that he needed. Now was a chance to actually try it. He began focusing on changing his body structure. At first nothing happened, but then he flinched as pain slammed through him. His concentration broke, scattering like glittering shards of glass. With a gasp Saljin sank to the ground. His shoulders ached already and this had only been his first try. With the second, third, and fourth tries, came three more failures. Each one wiped him out, causing him to gasp in pain and growl in frustration. He'd never really tried other shapes until recently, using only what he could see that had been innately given with the curse upon his hand. This was such an unknown area with even his experience that he just was unsure. Perhaps it was that uncertainty that was preventing and causing trouble. But as he got to his feet to try one last time, Saljin nearly dropped back to the ground. Catching himself at the last moment, he sighed. No more could be done for the day. He was exhausted and it was not yet time to close up for the day. More would have to wait for the next day.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:53 am
Hidden In Plain Sight
10.01.08 Solo Returning to the kitchen after his walk, Taj watched Delphine a few moments. She was cooing and coaxing the small creatures from her pocket to play. Then he watched Triq, raising an eyebrow at her expression. Jealousy was there and he suspected no good would come of it. She surddenly turned to see him watching her closely. "My Lord!" Bowing in some embarrasment, the aoidei asked quickly. "Can I get you anything?"He watched her silently, shaking his head. But then she poured him a cup of tea and pushed a plate of cookies in front of him. Taj suddenly stopped a grin on his face. Maybe just a few minutes would not hurt. Peanut butter, he knew the moment he bit into it. Jaster's favorite.
"Delphine and I are going to do some cooking later." Triq stated with a smile. "Sharing what we know how to make. We thought it was a good idea."
Taj nodded as he muched, causing her to watch him curiously as he savored it. He glance up at her in silence smiling with a nod.
"Lord?" she frowned, hesitantly. She did not usually question him, but she'd not heard him speak yet. "You seem different somehow than you were before. It is you, not Jaster, right?" Her voice was even more unsure. His wings flexed a bit then folded back as he watched her. He nodded frowning slightly. There was a difference in him. Reaching for the pad and pen on the table, he scrawled something across the top. Not the same He turned the pad around to face her so that she could read it. She blinked in surprise, reading it and then glancing up at him. Her eyes were concerned as she watched him closely. "No voice? I mean... you are writing." Her expression was suddenly flustered. He nodded, then grinned quickly, scribbling once more. Turning it around this time, Taj had a smirk planted on his face. Mystery is a mystery.Triq blinked again staring at him and then her lips twitched upwards as she broke into laughter. At least his sense of humor was the same. She nodded, "I understand. More tea?"He nodded to the inquiry, pushing his cup forwards. His hand brushed the salt shaker moving it to the side of the cup. Turning his attention to Delphine and Starshine who moved towards him, Taj paid little attention to the aoidei when she returned. Holding out a small piece of cookie, he let the creature nibble it from his fingers. Picking up the teapot, Triq turned to fill the cup. It was not there and she frowned startled that it was nowhere in sight. Taking a clean cup from the counter, she poured tea into it, setting it down in front of him. Oddly she wondered what had happened to the other cup. Noone had moved from where they were. Shrugging it away, she went back to watching. Raising an eyebrow at the new cup when the other was plainly in sight, he wondered if she had some aversion to reusing a cup. For awhile he played with Starshine, teasing him with little nibbles as the other two creatures finally appeared nearby. They likewise accepted small bits of food from his fingertips. Pushing his cup towards Triq, he indicated that she fill it again. Moving it forwards, he set it just behind the first cup as the aoidei turned to get the teapot. Then he glanced up to see Saljin coming in the doorway. Triq turned for the teapot, moving back only to see no cups on the table again. His cup was gone yet again? She began to wonder if someone was playing a trick on her, but knew that there was noone there except them and Saljin was just entering the room from outside. With a sigh, she filled two cups, placing one for Taj and one for Saljin within reach of each.
"Taj, are you loafing?" the shifter smirked, picking up the cup of tea. "I should have known."Giving a shrug, he caught sight of Triq staring at him again in confusion. He silently watched her for a long moment. Something was bothering her, but it was not entirely him. She had given him a new cup once more. Whatever was bothering her, that was a definite indication that things were unsettled for her. For an hour or so, Saljin and Taj drank tea. The shifter spoke. The god wrote and listened. Each time Triq got them a new cup and soon both were staring at her as the table continued to fill up with used cups. Handing Starshine over to Delphine, Mystery walked towards the staircase. Triq suddenly gasped as the tableful of cups appeared in front of her. She blinked simply staring at them. Then she glanced at Delphine and Saljin. "Where did all those cups come from?"At her words Taj stopped, turning back around to stare at her intently a moment. They had always been there. But as he would have said such, a distant memory toppled down over him. He had once been able to hide things, obscure them by changing the paths around them. Was he able to do so again? A faint smile appeared. If Triq had been unable to see the cups for his toying with them, then most certainly so. His power was returning and for a brief moment, he thought about telling her. Then he decided to keep it to himself. It made him one step closer to himself to keep such a secret until necessary. It could be an advantage. And perhaps a bit of fun. Triq was obviously confused which amused him though he'd not been deliberate in his actions. He would practice.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:53 am
Hell Bursts Over : Evacuation of the Lake House
11.08.08 Joint with Cinderfae, LittleDream Cinderfae Karakis tugged her hair back she hadn't kept the habit of braiding the long tresses as Cinder had and they were starting to become annoying especially after the troubles they had recently seen. Stepping up to the deck of the house she looked over the area outside of the barricade that she had Ashe and Erzulie put up sometime ago; today she had been very thankful it was there. The dark shapes on the ground outside the barricade shown starkly in the strange pale light of the sun; dawn had come during their fighting she realized. The demons didn't have red blood instead a sickly black ooze covered the ground and weapons of those that fought. After their death some bubbled and turned to puddles of the ooze others particularly a rather large spider creature tended to explode spraying an acid substance on those too close. Erzulie sported a bandage over her left arm covering one such wound, with one of her most capable warriors down she knew they were going to have to move. Ashe stood at the front still his face grim as he looked out ahead his red eyes scanning the area for any movements ready for whatever may come. The Goddess knew they had to retreat, they had lost the ship and now it seemed they were losing the house. Frowning slightly she called out to gather the attention of those close, she knew Taj and Saljin would be somewhere close as well as would the rest of their people. "We need to abandon the house but we must do it in an orderly fashion. Kalfyra, gather Yumeh and have him help you and Jadá gather what food supplies we still have left." Karaskis gestured slightly to the Aoidei as she spoke. Without a word Kalfyra hurried off to do as she was told. "Chester," she looked to the aged engineer that had come back from space with them, "gather what electronics will still function I want you to continue your work to keep Mycroft functioning." With a slight frown she rested her eyes on Taj and smiled faintly it was comforting having him near, "if you can spare anyone see if you can have them aid with carrying any food and perhaps blankets and other supplies there should still be some medical supplies that will be useful. If possible I would like Saljin to help Ashe with guarding on the way there; you and I should likely carry the grav - lock case that holds what we recovered from space, Erzulie can stay with us to help with that...put your people where you think they would be most useful. It's less then half a mile people, but it might be one of the more dangerous half miles you have ever walked in your life. Keep your weapons about you and lets stay orderly."Eftemie They had been fighting almost constantly, their guns coming in handy to keep the demons from coming over the barricade. Jaster or Taj and Saljin were both getting quite proficient with two guns, one in each hand. It simply gave them more options. This is not good, Taj. Jaster watched from behind. Hell has come, Jaster, but never easily or well. Taj was dressed in the blue shirt, but he now sported a black leather vest that Saljin had made from his jacket. It buttoned in front and though it offered him only miniscule protection. It did offer some and at this point anything was good and his wings were free enough to move easily. He'd already used them once to shove aside a demon and then shoot it. At Kara's words, the god glanced over at Triq and Delphine and then at Saljin. The shifter was getting good at reading his expressions and knew almost immediately what he was thinking. He started to turn away but then was stopped by a hand on his shoulder. Taj glanced meaningfully at Saljin.
"I understand. Delphine. Triq." Saljin stated after nodding. He would ensure that they all made it no matter what it took. Most likely as Erzulie would. "Go help carry medical supplies, food, and whatever else that we might need."Both Delphine and Triq nodded moving immediately inside the house. They would gather what was necessary, including the two packs that Jaster/Taj and Saljin always carried with them. Only what they could carry quickly and needed would be taken. -- A short distance away, Tempest, Joe, Moonshadow and Yuri made their way slowly through the trees. Twice they'd had to fight off a demon or two. Yet only a few minor scratches were left behind. Ataxis was curled up in Tempest's coat and had been since Cera had been carried off. The whereabouts of the rest of Eftemie's creatures was unknown except for the few mikimoo shells and the elder miki that Joe carried in the pack on his back. Jace was dead. The demons had attacked so suddenly that they had been unable to save him. Meroe had not been seen though Sinestra was with Lisana wherever she was. Joe had welcomed them back but been faintly shocked not to see Elana and at the condition that Tempest was in. Tempest had said little since arriving but he had been in a fight and so had the aiko. Both sported many new scars and injuries. They had decided to take the shortest way around the lake to the Pantheon. While the road might have been clearer, they had more chance to hide and remain unnoticed until they returned to the shop that Tempest knew of as the place of gods. It was their only chance.
"We need to move as fast as we can, Joe. I think that place is our only chance." Tempest ran a hand through his hair as he continued watching the area. He had found a Remington- a rifle, but he only had about three boxes of shells left. If they were careful, they should have enough to make it. LittleDream Yumehayla whiped the sweat from his forehead, and once again looked around. Something had happened again, it was obvious. After all the disasters of last weeks, hell had literarily broke loose. There were demons everywhere. And not just any demons. Crazed, bloodthirsty demons. He was a demon himself, but in these...these things, there was nothing familiar. Big, ugly and stupid. And damn strong. At least they're stupid...for now. But if the next wave will actually think for a change... We're in deep s**t.He cleaned his weapon of choice - a moon-shaped guisarme - from blood, and made his steps back towards his current home. Hopefully they're okay there...I'm sure they are. There are gods there, remember?Sometimes demons are stronger than gods, Tista. He sighed. Maybe. But not these demons. Go and see for yourself, if you're worried.The boy was going to do exactly that, when he saw Kalfyra going in his direction. Instantly all the bad feelings came back. He rushed towards her, hand holding tight the handle of his weapon. "Everything allright?" Well, if you could call the current situation 'all right'... "How's home? Did they get there already?"Cinderfae Karaskis nodded it seemed that everyone understood what was going on. "Taj the chest is in the Dining room lets head off and grab it while the rest get everything else around." Karaskis started toward the house, she had taken control of the situation because she knew she must, Taj for whatever reason was not talking for a time and no one else seemed to be capable of keeping everyone else in order. Entering the house she saw that Chester had started gathering what supplies he needed. The various others were grabbing whatever seemed usable. The part of her that was Cinder looked at the now being abandoned home with some sadness she had built this house. When she returned in search of Merci and found her turning into Kaelin she had built the house to be close to what remained of her love. Rolling her shoulders she moved toward the still locked chest with the pieces they had gone after; her eyes shifted up Faran was with the others he had taken to staying with them more out of survival rather then any particular amount of loyalty. -------- Kalfyra hurried over to Yumeh and offered what she hoped was a reassuring smile, "we are moving toward the Pantheon. Karaskis feels it will be safer, the other gods will be there as well and the building seems to be holding up well enough in comparison to everything else." Kalfyra frowned and glanced toward the nearby shed, "she wants us to get whatever we can food wise and carry it with us. Are you up for that?"Eftemie Taj nodded, moving towards the house. He knew that Saljin and the others were getting their things and as much as they could carry. He found the chest and picked it up easily enough and hoisting it onto one shoulder. Delphine glanced over at him, smiling faintly. "I think we have everything, my Lord." She had begun calling him that since he'd told her to take care of the little creatures in her pockets. "They are safe too." She patted the apron with a smile. He grinned widely nodding. Glancing over at Triq, he indicated the doorway, then moved out it himself. They needed to hurry and get to the Pantheon. He was certain there would be enough room for all of them. The building was different than any other. Basically their last defense. She nodded, picking up the things she needed to carry. Her load was larger than the other girl's but she was somewhat stronger also naturally. "He's wanting us to hurry I think, Delphine."
"I know. I'm ready." she added, putting one pack on her back and the other on her shoulder. Yet another bag was filled and on the other shoulder. They would simply have to trust they'd be protected by the rest. Saljin had moved back out the doorway to look at the direction they were taking to leave. So far nothing was between them and the path they were taking. At least nothing he could see. -- The other grouping of Tempest, Joe, and the two felines made their way carefully but as quickly as possible. Twice more they'd had to fight off a demon or two, and hide from one large grouping. It was slow going but it was the only way to get to where they wanted to be. It could be seen but it seemed such a long distance from where they were at the moment. Yuri flexed his wings a few times as he walked in the rear, glancing carefully around behind them. Moonshadow led the two men onward watching for anything that would try to harm the grouping. Repeatedly both sniffed the air to find the least trace of a scent that was closer than it should be.
"Only about a half mile to go, Joe." Tempest stated, his had shoved back a little so he'd be able to see clearly to aim.
"Good. I'm getting tired, Tempest. I'm really glad you came along when you did." the older man huffed. He was not in the shape to do this. Not like Tempest was.
"Don't worry. We will make it." he stated. It was the least he could do for Eftemie's uncle. The man was all he had. LittleDream "...Does that mean the house is also under attack?" That was probable, with all the mad demons he saw so far... "How are they doing?""Ofcourse I'll help." The boy put his weapon back on his back, made sure it was easy to access in case of an emergency, and nodded to Kalfyra. "Lead the way. We better be careful." The chances of beingattacked were pretty high. I don't like this, precious...Me neither. Cinderfae Kalfyra nodded and motioned to Yumeh using the key to the shed she opened it and pulled two bags out starting to fill them. "There isn't that much left but hopefully we will be able to get more supplies to survive on." Kalfyra sighed and then started loading Yumeh up with various packs and other things of food before strapping some onto herself, "there lets get back out front I got the impression they wanted to get moving pretty fast. If you had anything in the house better grab it as well. We want to get moving, even if we pushed back these demons apparently a larger one got away...Karaskis thinks that it was controlling the others and might go to regroup." Karaskis shouldered her burden and started out toward where the others were she could hear people moving around and preparing as the drew closer. ------- Karaskis took her portion of the trunk and offered a smile to Taj before moving toward the door outside by the time they made it out there several small groups with various supplies and other things they may need had converged on the area. Nodding slightly in approval Karaskis spoke after a moment, "like I said it isn't far, I want Saljin, Erzulie, and Ashe on the outer edges carrying nothing or very light loads."She then gestured toward Chester and Faran, "Engineers near the middle with the various parts close to myself and Taj, the rest will fill the space between please keep your weapons about you while we move. And if it comes to it be prepared to drop whatever you are carrying and run for it."People started to get lined up as Karaskis ordered, Jadá took a spot in front of Karaskis and Taj hooking a rather nasty meat cleaver to her belt and shouldering a load of what appeared to be various foods and medical supplies. Kalfyra motioned to Yumeh and took a position behind the engineers her only weapon a strangely fashioned club her face looking somewhat worried as she does. Eftemie Taj still shouldered his end of the trunk, keeping his other hand free to shoot with. The last thing they would give up would be the trunk and Faran. Both were needed. For a moment Taj flexed his wings, then settled them back in place. His tail was smaller than he remembered but he was quite certain he still needed to grow more yet. A brief instance of using it to hit something flickered but the memory faded quickly. It was too unclear and he had no time to worry about it. Be careful, Taj. Keep an eye on Saljin. Jaster's voice was soft. It was fading significantly more and more, but Taj was gaining as he moved about. I know, Jaster. Images of the shifter tossing himself in front of Taj to protect him had already slipped down over him. He understood what lengths the shifter would go to. Triq and Delphine moved where indicated. They were ready to do what they needed to do. Pretzel was muttering, but silenced at one glance from Taj. The meaning was obvious and the creature knew not to push his luck further. Saljin had already moved to where he would be able to help protect the center of the grouping having only his pack on his back. They needed Faran and the chest. He'd do whatever he had to in order to protect the two them. And Taj. -- Tempest hurried towards the building he knew was not far away. He could hear things moving behind them and he pushed Joe and the aiko onwards. Shaking his head, he growled. "If they track us, we will have to push even more."
"I know." Joe replied, trying to catch his breath as he moved as fast as he could. "I'm trying, Tempest."
"Well, I'm not leaving you behind, old man." he replied. "So pick up the pace."The large grouping of trees ahead could be a problem, but he knew that there was a path that forked into this one. Hopefully it would keep them in the clear until they got there. LittleDream "I'll better get my bag." He noded. It wasn't sure when they'll be able to come back here, or even if it'll be possible. Careful because of the bags with food, he moved inside the house, up to his room, and grabbed his bag. He carefuly placed his little gift inside, making sure it won't fall out, closed th bag, and placed it over his shoulder. Good we don't have much...
I never thought that I would, but I definetely agree. Finally ready, the boy made haste downstairs, and out of the building, back to Kalfyra. "I got everything I need now." Cinderfae Karaskis looked over the group with a slight nod, "lets move out then. Everyone keep on guard, anyone having trouble carrying anything speak up. Don't want anyone lagging behind." With that Ashe started off with the rag tag group following with him. Kalfyra smiled to Yumeh when he headed back, "alright, and just in time seems we are ready to move out." Kalfyra gave him a reassuring squeeze on the hand before falling in line with the others. The litlte group moved out along the lake toward the back Erzulie kept watch and once they were about halfway toward the Pantheon the dark Aoidei's voice was heard, "we are being followed." There was deep concern in the voice as well as worry, "there is also something or several somethings moving within the forest." Using her one arm that hadn't been damaged by the demon acid she unsheathed one of her blades frowning still and eying the forest. "So we have something coming up on us from two sides..."Karaskis paused and looked toward Taj and then the worry of the others, "nothing ahead though?""Nothing ahead, just behind and to the side."Karaskis frowned and nodded, "Ashe go toward the rear with Erzulie I'll take point from here, lets keep moving double time if they seem to get closer we'll see if we can throw them off somehow." The Goddess glanced toward Taj as she spoke perhaps Mystery would be of help. Eftemie Taj glanced over at Kara and then at Saljin. Shouldering the chest fully, the god moved to the side as Saljin moved to the rear entirely . The path forked ahead and he knew that although it meant they were closer to the Pantheon, it also meant a wider open area where they'd have little cover. Saljin moved around to the back, slowing down every now and then as he kept pace with the grouping. He wanted to be able to stall whatever was coming up behind them and yet stay close enough for his own protection. It would not do to get picked off. Delphine glanced back over her shoulder at those behind them once. She could feel the little creatures in her pockets shivering in fear. She felt as they did and her eyes met Triq's for a moment. The aoidei shook her head but kept moving. There was little else they could do. A growl rumbled in Yuri's throat as he glanced behind them. *Trouble coming behind." He tilted his head. Moonshadow dropped back behind with his cousin as Tempest nodded. The man glanced over at the other. "Joe, if all else fails, run for it. It's the big black building that we can see from here. Don't worry about us."
"Tempest." the old man began.
"No. Just do it. We can take care of ourselves if we know you are ahead and safe." He replied, moving between Joe and the fork that he knew was coming up. But as they rounded the trees, Tempest jumped, his gun pointing, but then he realized it was a woman with orangish hair. Her eyes were several colors. Then he saw the others. One with wings. Gods. The ones he did not want to see but right now if it protected the aiko and Joe, he didn't care. Both felines had turned to growl at the sudden appearance, but then turned back around to face what they could still hear behind them. Yuri's wings were unfolded and ready to push him towards whatever it was. But understanding they were mostly human, the feline turned back. *We need to hurry, Tempest. A large group. They are spread out behind us and them.* Yuri growled out again, his wings folding back, though his tail and Moon's both twitched nervously.(( Moonshadow Yuri ) LittleDream Yumeh made sure to keep close to Kalfyra. So far, she was the person he spent most of his time with, and with so much happening, he felt a bit safer next to someone he knew. And as a bonus, he had someone to talk to. Am I not enough anymore? Tista asked jokingly, leaving a feeling of a poked cheek to Yumeh. You would be, if you were standing next to me, and not inside me.As they moved out, the boy was carefully scanning their surroundings. There were quite a few fighters in their group, so it seemed fine. But if it'll get...difficult... He can always help. Though the food might be a problem. Cinderfae Karaskis turned and then glanced to Taj holding the heavy chest. Her eyes went over the group that had just come from the forest tilting her head she called to her group, "humans, looks like they have some animals with them as well." Wouldn't take for others running for their lives to accidentally get beaten over the head or shot by someone with twitchy fingers. Turning back Karaskis motioned to those in the forest, she then glanced over, "Jadá, Erzulie see if Taj needs you to take that chest so he can see to confusing our pursuers." Keeping the laser rifle raised so it wasn't threatening she moved toward the humans that had come from the forest, "if you need to find some cover we are heading to a place that is likely safer then it is out here. As a group we'll be able to keep everyone safe." Her voice shifted more smoothly then it had early on as Goddess and Mortal learned to work together. Jadá and Erzulie moved to take the heavy burden from Taj, Ashe moved back looking behind the group his expression nervous and stern as he could feel the upcoming battle. Kalfyra leaned and murmured to Yumeh, "we might have to run don't worry about the food if it comes to that." Karaskis left room for the new arrivals to join with the others, they could worry about introducing each other later on right now she was more set on hustling everyone into the Pantheon. Eftemie Taj handed the chest over moving towards the back. Reaching out he touched Kara's shoulder, indicating that they should keep going towards the Pantheon. For this to work, noone could be seen. He passed the others until he was the last one. Glancing around, he looked for a way to change the path so that none knew they had been there. Or at the very least lose the scent for a few moments. He watched Cinder a moment. "The Pantheon. It used to be a shop." Tempest nodded, glancing at Joe, after noting Taj's indication. "Joe, move into the middle with them. You'll be safer there. Let's keep moving."The older man nodded, moving closer into the group as told, but he still worried about the felines and the younger man. Tempest was his family as far as he was concerned. And he didn't know these people. Tempest glanced over to Yuri and Moon. "Closer to the group, Yuri. Moon. We can help guard."Both felines moved warily. They could still hear them coming and neither were happy though they kept their rumbling low. This was a big group following them all. Saljin turned keeping watch as Taj moved forwards. Oddly he started on one side, but the strangest thing was he was moving things that already lay in the path. What was he doing? He walked slower than the rest just to keep an eye on Taj. Focusing, Tajnevaki pushed a stone over on its side. Then he turned a branch nearby. Another stone was picked up and turned upside down as he concentrated. He went in a wide arc across the entire path, back and forth until he got to the portion where the other group had joined them. A few things there were twisted, turned, replaced in another direction as the god focused on the direction they had gone. Even a footprint was partially dusted out and a stone placed on top. When he was finished, he glanced back seeing what he had done, but their presence was changed, hidden. Obscured. It might only last mere moments. Or it might last longer. He did not know for certain, but a stall was all he could do. Then he hurried to catch up to the group almost out of sight. LittleDream "We won't." Tista anwsered, before Yumeh hushed him. "I'll try to take as much as I can anyway, since we do need all this stuff. But But if the pursuers will be troublesome enough...don't worry, I value my life." He smiled to the girl. There was a short pause, while the new group joing theirs, but they all quickly continued moving. All exept Mystery, that is. Without stopping, Yumeh looked around and obsereved the god. What he did seemed...random, at least. But the boy was alive long enough to know that things aren't always what they seem. "Whatever he's doing, I sure hope it helps." Cinderfae Nodding slightly to Taj and the indication Karaskis moved ahead of the group motioning to the others. "Lets keep moving," leading the way she kept a sharp eye in case anything snuck up behind the group. The dark building of the Pantheon loomed ahead, she glanced back once to see what Taj was doing. From her perspective she knew that it didn't appear like much but hopefully he would obscure their path long enough to get within the safety of the building. Kalfyra took Yumeh's hand holding it tightly more for her own comfort then anyone elses she kept up with the quick pace of the group. The aoidei seemed to relax slightly the closer they got to the Pantheon. Karaskis made it to the bottom steps of their goal, before she had a chance to step upon the stairs there was a blood curdling howl from behind them. Spinning Karaskis' eyes scanned the area, Taj had bought them some time but it had not been enough to actually get inside. Over the path they had just walked blackened demonic shapes started to swarm.
"Inside! Now!" The goddess moved to the side as she called out the order, adjusting her weapon so she'd be ready when the time came. Eftemie "Moon! Inside with Joe!" Tempest called out. The feline blinked in surprise but moved towards the door. That was one less in the way of those who would have to defend if needed. Delphine and Triq both jumped gasping at the sound. Then they rushed towards the steps and up shoving the door open. The aoide dropped her things in the room and then held the door for the rest. His weapon in his own hand, Saljin glanced at Chester and Faran. "Get inside now!" Then he nodded at Tempest and Yuri to go too. "Go! Fire from the doorway!"Tempest and Joe blinked hurrying in the door just behind the two engineers. The older man nearly tumbled in but managed to keep his feet as he moved out of the way of the rest. It might be close but they'd make it. He began looking around for something to barracade the doorway from them. Then he noticed the open window nearby and blinked in surprise. How did they keep them out of that? Yuri growled moving to the window to watch as did Moonshadow. Taj was further back than the others but he began to run towards them. A couple shots back over his shoulder hit but the rest continued coming. Only a little time had been bought but he'd not expected more than that. With both guns he began just blasting back over his shoulder to take out those in front or just behind making them stumble into one another. Good thing I did all that practising. Jaster's smirk was easy to read though faint. I suppose you are good for something. The god replied shooting a few more as he made it to Karaskis and the others. He glanced at the door to see that nearly everyone was inside, the new guy shooting from the doorway and taking out those he could in front. LittleDream The touch of her hand surprised the boy.He instinctively tightened the grasp, wanting without words to reassure the girl that yes, in fact, they're going to make it, and everything will be allright. Even though he wasn't so sure of it himself. Yumeh felt definetely better as soon as the Pantheon was within their sight. Now they only need to hurry a bit more... But it was too late. They were spotted. Damn, and it was so close! Already on the steps of the Pantheon! "Hurry!" he shouted to Kalfyra, making a run towards the door, and dragging the girl with him. If she trusted him enough to hold his hand when she felt unsettled, he will at least make sure she's safely inside before doing anything else. As soon as they managed to enter the building, he put the food supplies and his bag somewhere out of the way, took his guisarme from his bag, weighted it in his hand, and leaving the girl inside, went out to everyone protecting them all from demons. They were using guns to hold off the attackers, so he didn't move too far from the door. But if it'll get worse, and comes to meele fighting, he'll be able to help. Cinderfae Karaskis saw that her people got inside along with the grav-lock chest that held the precious parts to the consort. She heard Yumeh yell dragging Kalfyra inside and the others with weapons nearby, stepping back to the door she left off a shot downing one of the creatures toward the head of the pack that had spilled over their path. "Lets move back and hold the doors!"
Your dubious ways at least paid off some.
I think your enjoying the shooting too.Ducking back with the others Karaskis took another shot at the oncoming creatures, "lets get these doors shut and barred!"Kalfyra didn't need much prodding to run along with Yumeh to the safety of the pantheon as the demons broke over their path. Stumbling once inside she moved to help the others that had gotten pulled along. Eying the windows the cat creature had moved by she moved up near Moon intending to bash any demons that attempted to sneak in the window with her club. Eftemie Taj shot a few more as he moved back a few steps at a time. Saljin was waiting at the door as was the other fellow. He was hitting them accurately which helped. With the shifter and god shooting those beside his, the ones behind would trip. Saljin moved inside and to one of the windows, shooting still at those he could see. He was not taking any chances that they would think they could make it inside with the windows broken. There were so many broken now. When the last person was inside, Taj and Tempest shoved some furniture up against the door. If they actually dared to come inside there would be other gods to face he was quite certain. If they dared to actually assault the Pantheon doors and windows. Joe had moved the things they carried to the side. Getting himself out of the way as he helped Delphine get some things stacked over to the sides just in case they had to help. The engineers moved away as well leaving those in front of them to protect. LittleDream Well, it seems there won't be any meele battle this time. Yumeh thought, as he entered the patheon with the rest of the defenders. Yes. But now we're trapped here, precious.Hopefully not for long. If they're typical demons, they might get bored quickly.But what if they'll continue the assault?Tista, this is the Pantheon. You three aren't the only gods here. They might've had it easy attacking two gods and a little sealed godling, who concentrated mostly on protecting the humans with them. But what if...they'll have to face a bigger party, consisting of mostly gods? Yes, you're right...sorry.Yumeh nodded. He kinda understood Tista. Right now, the god was feeling useless for not being able to help. He knew he would feel the same in his place...or even worse. Well, nows not the time to be drowning in thoughts.He joined those moving the furniture to block the entrance, and concentrated on his current work. Cinderfae Karaskis lended her help where she could before moving to one of the broken out windows. Of the grouping lead by the larger demon she had become familiar with in appearance Karaskis realized it was somewhat smaller then she originally had thought, though certainly more then their group could handle. Her eyes went over to the large horned creature that seemed to be goading the others on as they moved the closer they got to the Pantheon the weaker and smaller demons fell off from the larger group. "Those with guns, take out a couple of the more adventurous ones," after speaking Karaskis raised the weapon that once had belonged to Cinder and took aim letting off a shot toward one of the more courageous beings. There was a high pitched squeal and guttural angry chattering. "They are at least thinking twice of hitting up the Pantheon lets give them some more reasons." She let out another shot not bothering to actually place it so it fell among the group of creatures. Looking out she noted that the one that seemed to be leading was standing back from firing range. Eftemie Tempest nodded, aiming directly for one or two in front. One dropped but the other one he missed. Aiming again he sent a second shot, clipping the arm of the beast. He'd have to reload soon he figured, but hopefully they would leave. A place of safety was all he cared about at the moment. Saljin had gone to a window also and was taking out a few with the laser pistols he had. Delphine and Triq both simply waited to see what would happen. Hopefully the demons would give up. The aoidei glanced about her. "You think they will have room for us here?" she asked musing softly to herself. Moron. There's room right now. Look around you. Pretzel spoke up from where he was in her hand. "Don't call me that you stupid little bad creature!" she replied shaking him around a bit. Taj glanced over at her catching her eyes as if to say "Don't start." She bowed, apologizing. "I'm sorry, my Lord. He just irritates me sometimes."Turning Taj suddenly smirked as he deliberately took out two just in front of the one who was obviously the leader. Then he aimed a couple more, hitting one in the shoulder and the other in the leg. Just a little incentive to leave or so he thought. If he was afraid enough to stay out of range, then perhaps he'd think they were aiming for him. They should definitely encourage the creatures to leave. Both aiko were growling angrily as they watched. For some reason Yuri did not think they would come in. At least not without more help than they had. There were gods here. LittleDream So... After a bit quieter moment, Tista started. ...it seems it calmed down. What do we do now?I'm not sure yet, godling. I suppose we wait.Tista sighed, and looked around the place cauciously. After his first visit here, he was never -inside- of the Pantheon. He did come here a few times, but he was always staying outside. With all that's happening...All that was supposed to be closed, was closed, and the only ones who were actually doing somthing productive were those with guns. The rest, so far, was being close to the rest, and probablywaiting... And there were already some argues. How long do you think those demons will stand there? No idea. Maybe long. Or maybe they'll get bored any minute. And don't disturb the others. Cinderfae Karaskis watched out the window a moment and nodded slightly before moving back. The demons that were left had scattered a few hung around the edges of the property but it wasn't the group like they had faced earlier. " They've given up for now. As for where we shall stay I do know some within these walls. Though I never had rooms for myself, we can seek them out perhaps for temporary shelter. I believe however we are going to need to take over a house nearby or perhaps attempt to take the lake house back." She sighed slightly glancing over to Taj and then Saljin before looking to the others, "before we can take any place back over however we are going to have to hunt down that large demon."
"Perhaps give the others something to fear," she took a moment to look out the window again before looking back to the group. "Lets figure out who is going and who is staying here and then find someplace for everyone not going to settle down in for safety." Karaskis paused her eyes finally going to the group that came from the forest. " And now perhaps a moment for introductions, I'm Karaskis." She was short but still somewhat curious of the new arrivals. Eftemie Taj and Saljin both nodded. The shifter knew they would be unable to do it yet, but demon hunting seemed worthwhile to prevent harm later. Who knew when they'd get brave enough to return and try again.
"Later." Saljin stated, when Taj turned to watch the others for a moment. "After we get everyone settled for some rest."Mystery nodded, turning to watch Tempest and those that had been with him. He reached out to pat both Yuri and Moonshadow. Approval of both their actions were in his eyes and each one accepted his touch.
*You are like Lisana.* Yuri stated as he watched Taj. The god inclined his head then raised an eyebrow, grinning widely with a sudden shrug. He glanced over at Saljin who nodded.
"Tajnevaki is the God of Mystery. He does not speak. I am Saljin, that is Delphine and Excentrique." Saljin nodded towards the two felines and the two men with them.
"I'm Joe. Lisana," he glanced at Tempest who grit his teeth. "is the Goddess of Laughter. Her host was my niece. That is Tempest. A friend. And Yuri and Moonshadow."Tempest nodded watching Taj a moment. "Mystery, huh? I could have used you awhile ago. Then I'd not have..." He stopped, clenching his jaw tightly. "Nevermind. It doesn't matter now. When you go demon hunting let me know. I'll go and help. I have nothing else to do right now. Certainly can't do any shows." Moving away, he sat down at one of the windows to watch. Taj's eyes narrowed as he watched the man. There was alot of pain in that one. Turning back to Karaskis after another long moment of study, he smiled, lips twitching. His eyes almost asked in amusement if it was another old boyfriend of Cinder's. LittleDream "I am Tista!" The god spoke first in the introduction, looking aroung on all of the new faces. Even more gods, this really is becomming amazing! But does it really? this was Yumeh's thought. I think this one, we saw already... He only..changed?"I am of the Chance!" He continued, ignoring the mental growl from his host. But finally Yumeh managed to take control back in his hands. "And I am Yumehayla, the unfortunate host." He smiled warmly, as if they met on a party, and not during a demon attack. Cinderfae As Ashe, Erzulie, Kalfyra, and Jadá took time to introduce themselves Karaskis moved further into the building. "I believe we can find some refuge in the room of the God of Water, hopefully he'll be in. He usually resides in the lake that the house was built next to." To call the house 'Cinder's' never even came to the mind of the being that was now Karaskis and Cinder for it was part of their history now in some strange way. The strangeness hit her for a moment but she let it pass for further thought later on. Motioning over to the others she then started toward the stairs, "we might as well get settled in and then figure out what we are going to do next. Because even if we are going to do something against the demons it won't be until we have had some rest." Host and goddess blended and seemed in agreement on the matter as they started up the first few stairs. She didn't know what to expect as she moved toward the rooms it had been sometime since Cinder had seen Kaelin and still part of Cinder held sadness. The memory of the host that Kaelin had consumed was held within her memory and would become part of the touch of humanity that Karaskis would keep with her. Eftemie Nodding to everyone, Tempest got to his feet, helping Joe grab their things. He had been so unhappy to find Joe left alone and Jace dead. She took Eftemie and had promised to look after the man for her. The goddess and he would have words when she returned about her 'care' of the men. Joe watched him silently. Coming here had brought back even more of the pain in Tempest and he was uncertain what to do about it. Meroe and Yeti were still missing. He hoped that the rest had been able to escape. Yuri and Moonshadow silently followed after watching from the window a few moments longer. "It's very nice to meet you, Tista, and you also Yumehayla."
Nodding to Tista, he smiled. The god was certainly excitable. They had met, but it was Jaster more than he that had been around. Taj picked up some of the things as did Triq, Delphine, and the rest. They were safe for now. The demons would not storm this place, but at some point they would have to be hunted down and the leaders taken out so that the rest left them alone. He wondered how much space there would be in one room for all of them. They might have to think about getting rooms of their own or clearing out one of the houses nearby and fortifying it to use. So many were dead and when they brought Him back, they would have to reshape-remake this world entirely from those left. It would take alot of work, but Jaster had never been one to shy away from what needed done and he gave that to Taj more and more as they slowly merged. He hoped the water god did not mind their intrusion. LittleDream "Same to you." He smiled, anwsering to the welcome, and after a while, shifted his eyes back to Karaskis. "So, shoud we take all our things there, too? It's pretty lot of them, won't it be a bother to that God?" One room, for all of their things? It was pretty hard to imagine that... ...unless the 'room' of a God was something different than what you usually describe as a 'room'... We could always ask him, when we arrive there? I want to get away from this place... It's creepy...Yumeh gave a mental hair cuddle to Tista, and sighed. Don't worry. And that's probably what we'll do, I think. (Not enough room in this post. Third page linked in.)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:55 am
Hell Bursts Over : Evacuation of the Lake House
11.08.08 Joint with Cinderfae, LittleDream
Post 2 Continuation Cinderfae Karaskis was already at the top of the stairs, pausing she turned and looked back toward the others. "No bring it all no need to go losing anything and Water may have need of supplies as well. It isn't much but we can share if needed." Waiting for the others a moment she then moved down the hall, she remembered or rather Cinder remembered the way to Kaelin's room. Once the others had gathered she looked over them with a slightly amused look wondering how Kaelin would react to such a group appearing at his doorstep. Taking a breath Karaskis knocked on the door, she could hear movement from within. It seemed that they had gotten lucky and found the god at home. The door opened a crack and looking over Karaskis didn't see anyone at first, on reflex she looked down and quirked a brow spying a little purple Godling peeking out at the group. It seemed Kaelin had been busy... "Hello..."Una eyed the group outside the door a moment and stood what seemed to be frozen in space. When Karaskis spoke she broke whatever lull had been over things and Una turned on her heel yelling back into the room, "Yaxha!"The door swung open as the Godling stepped away from it, a shock of dark hair over a pale blue cover on the bed within was the first thing noticed. After a moment the outline of a man that the hair belonged to could be seen covered up as he lay resting on the bed. Karaskis wondered how it was the child had not awoken him. Murmuring slightly she waited to see who Yaxha was, "it seems Kaelin has a full house as well."Eftemie Taj raised an eyebrow slightly. More children. He remembered the one he had seen picked up that day by the green god called Hunt. She had been his daughter if he remembered correctly. Blinking in surprise, he nearly sighed. It was one of Jaster's memories more than his, but it was his. This was not easy. As the thought slipped out, amusement was felt. Jaster smirked faintly. Did you expect it to be?
No. But still... He frowned slightly.
I know. It's alright, Taj. We will be more. Besides, I have no secrets from you. A smirk. With a sigh, he wondered just how big the quarters given to Water were. Hopefully there would be enough room for all of them. He frowned faintly at the man on the bed. If he had not woken at the yell, was he injured or something that they would intrude upon his care? Hopefully not. Tempest and Joe stood with the felines at the very back. He glanced over at the older man. "How long has she been gone?"
"About two weeks I think. Meroe sent a message saying she had to go to another planet. Some city that had statues of Origin. Whatever that means, but she was going with the goddess of Numbers, and two others. Someone was supposed to show them how to get there."
"So she took a ship then." Tempest did not like the fact that Lisana had left Joe and Jace alone as she had. They would have been safer with her. He grit his teeth, clenching his jaw tightly.
"Not sure if it was a ship or not. Meroe returned once and said someone mentioned doors here that led other places. Not sure what that means." Joe shrugged. "Her place will be a mess if we ever return there. I grabbed what shells I could find and some of the smaller creatures are in the one bag on my shoulder. There was not much I could do. I was lucky that you came along, Tempest."He nodded, a bit of anger at her. Joe was Eftemie's uncle and she had promised to take care of him. Certainly had a good idea of what her words were worth now and he disliked her even more. They would have a talk when she returned. LittleDream OmigoshomigoshomigoshCHILDREN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Well, Yumeh's train of thought wasn't too...understable...right now, which made Tista giggle out loud in disbelief. And to think it was always me who gets scolded by him for idiotic behavior... He took his chance to take over the body, and looked around. "So...this is the place we'll be staying in?"Not staying, unless the God who resides here says we can. But omigosh, they have little children here, did you see that?! She's probably a servant to the God or something, but wasn't she CUTE?!?!?! Yumeh's mental voice suspiciously resembled squealing right now. Tista decided that it would be better to keep his host inside for a bit. No need to ruin his reputation like that.But the young godling couldn't help but smile. Somehow, his host suddenly seemed much more similar to himself...in some way. Ofcourse HE didn't have any unhealthy reactions to children. But for Yumeh to actually be pretty cute like that... Cinderfae Peering in the door that had swung open Karaskis looked over the rooms belonging to Kaelin. They strangely resembled a cave a large pool big enough for swimming sat off to the side. The bed with the man in it was in the center of the room and despite the child's rapid speech from within. After a moment the little purple child was seen again this time being carried on the hip of a dark haired woman with green highlights throughout her hair; she was dressed as a gypsy and her dark skin suggested it wasn't just for show. For a moment the woman studied the group her eyes going to Karaskis and Taj a moment before speaking, "Milord Kaelin is not in at the moment...can I perhaps help you with something?"The little purple girl with snowy white hair swung her legs slightly as she watched the group, "Daddy isn't here but we are!" she said in a somewhat sing songy voice even being able to go visit in the Pantheon hadn't really given the energetic child much to do so she ended up often enough bored, she was excited to see the new people which caused her to squirm in her guardian's arms. Cinder quirked a lip in amusement, "so your Kaelin's daughter, it is lovely to meet you." Looking toward Yaxha Karaskis spoke directly to the guardian, "actually we came seeking a bit of shelter until we are able to retake our house."Yaxha blinked slightly and peered out at the group before looking back at the room, "well there should be room here, there are side areas to the main room. Though if your coming in please attempt to move quietly Nixie is sleeping." She gestured toward another sleeping godling on a over sized pillow in the corner, by the looks of it the area seemed set up for both the children. Yaxha may have been more reluctant to allow entrance to the group but the similarities between the fiery goddess' appearance and the appearance of the woman in the picture near the bed were too remarkable for her not to notice. Anyone that took time to look over the room would recognize the picture of Cinder settled on a nearby nightstand. Eftemie Taj glanced back at the people they had with them. They could share the rooms as much as possible. He was sure that the gods here were accommodating everyone they could until the demons were under control. At least he hoped so. He would leave it up to Karaskis to decide where everyone ended up. She knew Water and he did not. They were taking his hospitality for granted since he was not here. He had glanced around the room and seen the picture of Cinder. Karaskis or Cinder would tell them if either of them wanted he or Jaster to know. It doesn't matter. Her choice.Well, perhaps you should spend some time with Cinder later. The image of her in the frame was not the only reason he wanted Jaster to spend time with her. Jaster was getting very faint, but holding on to see this situation solved. He would not be around long after the God was back. Not long at all. Tempest glanced around. "Joe, we will share a room. I think that's best for now."
"That's fine with me." Joe nodded, then added, "Yuri and Moon also. That way they will be out of the way."Saljin watched them for a few moments. "Some of us can share rooms if necessary. That will leave some space just in case others need a place also."LittleDream So, not a servant, but a daughter, it seems... Still, such a cutie... That actually made him think... Is there more of children gods here? Hopefully nothing bad happens in the pantheon, if yes... Yumeh calmed himself down a bit, and finally looked around. Quite a nice room, I must say. It is, isn't it? I hope we can stay...We will see. It seems we can, at least for now. Everybody seems to know where they go... Let's stay with them, this way I'll have a chance to snatch a place to sleep, too.While looking around, his eyes landed on the photo near the bed. Well, she seemes to be really close with the owner of this place... Hopefully close enough that he won't kick us out, even though so many people suddenly appeared in his home...
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:55 am
Carving 203a
03.09.09 Solo Having found a place to rest in Kaelin's room was at least something. Taj hoped to meet the God of Water and to thank him for his hospitality even if he were unaware of it. It was rumored that the god was transformed closer to what he had once been than some. Closer to what he was before the fading. At the moment thought, demons were a probleml, but with sanctuary, they would survive for now. He was certaint ;hat the demons would continue to plague them, pushing and testing. The bolder ones were pushing the others into moving closer while they remained out of range. Taj suspected in the end they would have to hunt a few down and make a point. He was certain that he would enjoy it. But his few moments were now his own and he intended to enjoy them. His and another's. It would not be long before Jaster was entirely gone. Taj knew his thoughts. They were the same as his own. Both wanted to see a solution to their Lord before Jaster had vanished.
Jaster?
For a long moment only silence. Then it was as if the voice came from a long distance away. As if dragging itself back for a few moments. He was. Yes. I am still here, Taj.
You always will be. You don't regret, do you?
Are you kidding? Best fun I've ever had.ked a bit knowing he had enjoyed every moment of it.
I see. Good.
Promise me something?
Sure.
Take care of not just Saljin, but Him too. Don't let this happen again. It should not. I mean.. I know humanity is careless, often callous, and even cruel, but they have something great within them also.Taj was silent for a moment. Then grinned both inwardly and outwardly. Do you think I really would not?
I know you will. He got quiet, but then continued, knowing the sadness the god could feel within him. But the excitement was there as well. He had been the same way about space. Everyone owes Him so much and I'm not sure they see it. I have had a lot of time to think it over. By bringing everyone back as He did, causing the gods to need hosts- other beings, He has given more of Himself than any will ever see. I think I understand because of my mother. She gave so much to me while I had her. She was never well after giving birth, but she still was there. I think that's why my father was as he was. I could only do so much before I saw it was useless. But our Lord is like that. He has given and it is now our turn to give back to Him.
I see it too, Jaster. I see alot more than I did before because you have shown me much. The things that I have promised you are small in comparison to what I owe you. Taj's feelings were genuine as he shared them with the one who had given him a life again. Jaster could very well have rejected him that day. Taj was stronger and saw more clearly who he could be, should be, and would be one day.
[p]Leave Him things. Just some small token you make. A smirk was felt between them.
Oh? Work for me? He returned, amused and raising an eyebrow.
No. I like to do it and I think He will like them. Just something small so that He must find it. A small carved log with something hidden inside where least expected. A squirrel. A skull with a butterfly in its mouth. Just whatever strikes your mood. He has to know that there are those who care about him . Not for any reason other than that he is Our Lord. Just because He is who He is does not mean He is not taken for granted. Perhaps even moreso than the rest of us.
I can do that gladly, Jaster. For a long moment there was silence. Jaster, just in case I forget to say it...
I already know, Taj. You, too. Now, is there any of that wood left? Neither really needed to say it. It was already there even as it had been thought.
You know we do.
Then let's get started. What shall we make? He smirked.
Oh, I was thinking a rodent in a rotted log sounds good. An amused smirked echoed between them.
It's not a rodent. Jaster's thought was nearly a growl but then a long moment of quiet followed. Taj, a squirrel is not a rodent, is it?
He snorted moving towards his pack. A carving knife in his hand and he stared silently selecting the piece he could see might have what he was looking for within it. A squirrel and more. Carefully shaping the piece as he saw it, Taj began to form the trunk as it would rise from the ground. It was a portion of the tree that still looked rooted. Branches and the upper portion were missing as if it were hollowed out and waiting to be filled with life that would find shelter amongst its nooks and crannies. When it was finished, sanded as smooth as he wanted it to be, Taj turned it over and over in his hands. It stood nearly a foot high. Now he needed to add the finishings to it. Jaster snorted at the word 'finishings'. You mean the rodents?
Of course. Afterall mice and squirrels were considered cute but also rodents dependent on the point of view of the person. The god smirked as he reached for a small piece of wood that he had chipped free earlier. If he left a small post on the back of each piece and drilled a small hole he could put a drop of glue and plug the items in. It should hold easily the small things he was adding. Gently he shaped several blossoms with leaves attached, creating vines to put into place. A small insect here and there. A mouse tucked into a nook near a root. A trio of mushrooms, and even a small bird all became part of the trunk scattered about so that one would need to look at the entire creation to find them all. Lastly, he crafed a small squirrel to be hidden within one of the hollowed out branches. Disguising the opening with leaves and flowers he fixed two so that they would move aside to reveal the tiny creature with an acorn in its mouth staring outwards at whomever was looking in. After ensuring the they would hold as he needed the pieces to, he was satisfied with what he had done. Taj smiled feeling Jaster's approval from deep within. Then he tilted it slightly to create a marking. It would serve to make it known that it was his creation, but only be seen after the squirrel had been found. It was a spiral of sorts that curved around and then back upwards creating a moon sliver on the left side. The final thing to do was rub in the linseed oil gently and carefully as a finish to make the trunk shine softly. Taj was certain that He would like this and decided that it would be the first thing that found its way to his Lord. A thought occurred to him as he was cleaning up the mess he had made that he would need to have a workshop and find some wood pieces that he liked to work with. When this was all over, then he would have to find a place for his own to live. Now to work on a larger flower for Karaskis. A comb would be a nice surprise. He carefully selected a piece of the wood that he thought would look good. It was the lightest piece of all that he had and he was sure that once it was finished that it would look pale and creamy in her hair. The other wood was too close to the color of her hair to actually show up unless he wanted to paint it. He didn't, but wanted the wood so shine instead. Tracing his design carefully he turned the wood around carefully. Each petal he shaved off small slivers until the true shape of what he wanted began to appear. He worked steadily on making it seem lifelike in attitude and shape though he knew it was wood. The tines of the fork-like section for holding her hair, he carved out with extreme caution. Breaking it now would not do, but he needed a fineness to them so that they would cling appropriately to her hair. When he was finally finished with it, he grinned as he rubbed the oil into it. It was a creamy pale blossom with a slightly darkened center from more oil just to give it a bit of distinction. He was entirely pleased with it. Karaskis would love it. So would Cinder. He suddenly laughed shaking his head. Why had he developed such an interest in woodcarving? It was not something that either he or Jaster had ever really done. Jaster had simply whittled sticks to nothing. He might have to look for some other types of wood. Should this entire situation ever get solved.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:57 am
Demon Hunting 101
03.10.09 Joint with Cinderfae Eftemie It had been only been a couple days since they had found sanctuary in the Pantheon. Taj spent time looking out the windows to make sure the demons were gone. They did not attempt the building but they did constantly test the area outside. Finally Taj decided that either they put an end to them and reclaimed the lake house or they would need to find a house nearby. There were several large old victorian places that were passable and close enough that they were not bothered by the creatures that haunted the streets. With a few fortifications, the one could very well serve as a place to give them all some more space. Checking his guns, he glanced over at Saljin with a smirk. Taj was easily amused at the thought of hunting demons even when he had the oni, who were demons, living with them. It was rather fitting in some odd fashion. Then he pulled a pad out scrawling across for a moment. The shifter raised an eyebrow. "Going out? Or should I even ask?" Getting to his feet he checked his own weapons. Taj would not go out alone. The god shrugged stepping towards Karaskis. He slipped his arms around her from behind. Holding out the note in front of her, he kissed her ear. The handwriting was somewhat messy but clearly readable. A house awaits to rid of its demon infestation. He was quite certain from what Hagenti had said that the demon they hunted had taken up residence in the lake house. It was doubtful it was worth fixing from what the oni had said, but with the boss demon gone, they could move into one of the empty ones near the pantheon quite safely. And it kept them near for anyone who needed them. Cinderfae Resting back slightly she enjoyed the embrace for a moment before looking over the note. " That is true, and even if we go to a house that isn't one of the nearby ones we need to destroy the leader before we leave the limited safety of the pantheon." Her voice fluctuated between goddess and host as she spoke, both were feeling somewhat antsy at being locked up in the small room. It might have been better if it had not been Water's rooms where they had found refuge. " I am of course going with you," a direct statement and one that host and goddess agreed on explicitly. Yaxha was sitting not far, sewing a small outfit for Una as she listened. "I cannot pretend to be a warrior but I believe if you are going after the demons that I may be able to offer some aid. That is if you would be interested in such a thing." She was not overly familiar with the fire goddess, but the goddess' appearance was remarkably similar to the woman in the picture that Kaelin kept. So aiding her and her group she felt would be in the interest of her Lord. Coming to an ending spot Yaxha set the garment aside and then moved over to a box that she had brought with her starting to go through it, "nothing overly exciting just some charms, they'll keep the smaller demons at bay."Ashe stood to the side listening to the various people talking back and forth, he looked to Karaskis and Taj as he spoke, "I will go as well." Erzulie looked as if she would enter in as well but the goddess cut her off, "Erzulie you can stay here if something happens the others may need a warrior as well." There had been some discussion over the werewolf and since they had no other choice they had kept to caution, he seemed nice enough now but it was clear he could not control the change. Triq she had noticed seemed to be sympathetic more then the others, the goddess smiled slightly at least it seemed to be giving Saljin a reprieve. Karaskis glanced over where she knew the Oni had gone to, "lets get our things together and then see what can be done about our demon problem." She had a feeling that Yaxha's charms would likely not sit well with the demons. As the thought pasted through her mind the gypsy came to the group and started handing out small charms some slightly different from one another to each in the party. "They may make some that are in allegiance with you uneasy," the gypsy had kept in mind the Oni as well, "but they seem strong enough that they should not harm them."Karskis/Cinder nodded her thanks before going to put on the thick reinforced jacket that Cinder had often wore. Strapping on a pistol and then going to pick up the laser rifle she considered a moment what else she may need. Ashe seemed content with one ancient looking blade as his only apparent weapon but Karaskis had little doubt that her elemental would not hesitate to use his element to his advantage. Eftemie Saljin smiled, stating, "I'm going also. We might need the advantage." He took the charm she offered to him with a smile, nodding his gratitude. Taj slipped his into his pocket, checking his guns for a moment. He was wearing the leather vest that had been made of the one jacket. For this he needed a bit more protection, though he did not plan to let them get that close. Triq watched them all closely. She was tempted to go but had decided to remain with the group here in the room. A house to spread out in would be nice and she was quite certain the oni would want the basement. She didn't particularly like them and still could not understand why Taj was helping protect them. He had changed alot from what she remembered him to be. But then perhaps he had always been that way. "I'll stay too. Just in case Erzulie needs some help." Thankfully she didn't argue about going this time. Tempest glanced over at Taj. The god met his eyes and nodded at the silent question. "I'll go along also. Joe, Yuri is going, but Moon can stay here."Anji stood to one side watching. "We saw at least ten in the area of your house. And all listened to the big one. He had wings and a tail, but most of the others only had tails and horns. He'll run if he gets the chance. I've seen him before, but I don't remember his name." Information was al he had to help them with. None of them had been here long enough to regain their magical abilities yet. Cinderfae Turning back to the others Karaskis listened a moment her eyes flickering over to the Oni. "Alright, the smaller ones we should be able to handle I'm not overly worried about killing them use the charms as well if they'll work. The large one is the one we want to concentrate on killing, so lets see if we can set up some sort of trap so he doesn't have anywhere to run." Her face was somewhat grave and thoughtful as she spoke. Karaskis was thinking of the best alternative as was Cinder but a hint of worry was also there. Hopefully no one would end up lost during the battle, it was a chance they had to take however if left the demon would just continue to draw power and perhaps create some real problems. Ashe moved toward the door, his eyes lingering over the others in the room as he did. He had been a warrior since his creation long ago by his goddess but now things seemed more dire then they had ever been before causing the elemental some sadness and regret for his past. A determination to move ahead filled him as he waited for the others to gather up.
"Alright we have the Oni report letting us know where they are, I'd like them to keep a point position in this working as scouts of sorts and perhaps taking out some of the smaller demons that'll be around the outside." She wasn't overly sure of the Oni but Taj seemed to trust them and they seemed loyal to him so as long as they did their job she could find use. "Once there is a cleared area around the outside it's going to be a game of pulling the demons out. This'll be tricky since the lead demon is a runner...thoughts?" She looked over the others in the room after speaking, before she may not have asked the others but things had settled into a situation where she felt the more they had working for it the better. Eftemie Jaster glanced over at Saljin a long moment. Then he questioned, tilting his head with lips twitching. Then he folded his arms waiting in amusement. The shifter sighed, suspecting what it was he wanted. From the actions he was suddenly quite certain it was Jaster in charge for the moment. The smirk was obviously so. Shaking his head, Saljin checked his gun. "I think he wants me to play my little skydive trick. If the rest of you can handle those and make him run alone, I'd have a chance at him but someone would have to catch up quick to help take him out."
Tempest listened to them closely. "If he's distracted enough, then someone should be able to get a few shots off at him. I'll keep an eye on Saljin and help." He shoved a few strands of black hair from his eyes. "I've no trouble taking him down." His voice was cold, but no more than normal. Taj stirred, turning to watch him. He and Tempest were going to have a talk later and see what it was bothering the man. He could almost feel magic in him, but it was stifled as a breath of wind that was trapped inside a container with no outlet. It stirred itself, but was stale. Flexing his wings, he nodded at Karaskis, his eyes asking what she thought. Cinderfae Karaskis nodded slightly, with a sight frown on her face. "It is a good trick, but things may not pan out like they are suppose to. So don't go attempting it if you don't have any back up." The whole ordeal made her uneasy, she knew they needed to put the large demon down but wasn't keen on putting their people in more danger for it; however one could not come without the other. "It's seemed to play the coward so far but backed into a corner it'll fight and no telling what that might entail. Now Yaxha has said that usually demons can't really be killed but with the planes shifting we can destroy it. So lets go for taking the heads of the ones we kill so they don't go getting back up." Adjusting the protective vest over her top she nodded to the others, "I'm ready to head out when the rest of you are."Yaxha rested back on the bed a moment before going back to her sewing a worried look on her face as she did. She had come to the Pantheon for aid and protection not only for herself but also for the little ones, the gods were doing something it seemed but she feared their strength had not returned enough for them to be truly successful. She kept her worries to herself as she continued with her work, glancing over at the bed behind her were the two young godlings lay sleeping during all the commotion. Ashe nodded, "I'm ready as well, the rest of you?" The elemental looked toward the others as he spoke, after learning of his son and what had become of him he had been closed off. Ashe really did not know the others well and he hoped today would not give him reason to regret never being able to. Eftemie Saljin nodded, nearly smirking that he didn't know she cared. But then he thought better of it, knowing the situation was more serious than his attitude at the moment. "I'll figure out some way to delay him until help arrives."Tempest nodded shortly. "I'll be there. And Taj, I'd like to talk to you later. Privately if you don't mind." He wondered what Mystery knew of magic and illusion. Perhaps the god would have some information that would help him later. All he could do was ask. Checking the shells he had, he found that this would probably be the last trip out with the weapons he had. He would have to find something else. Briefly he wondered about the laser guns that Taj used. "I should have enough shells for this trip, but unless I can get some more later, this gun is going to be out of commission."Taj nodded, simply watching the fellow a moment. He would take time to pull Tempest aside a few moments. When they returned. Jaster had been silent more than not lately and he wondered what he thought of the man. But when no reply was forthcoming, he simply turned towards the door. Hagenti and Anji watched silently for a moment. Then the female oni blurted out, "Be careful!" Teeth tugging on her lower lip, she wondered why she cared that they come back. Was it just because of the box of dolls and safety? Or was it more? A frown on her face she turned away when Taj winked at her, a grin on his face. Annoyed at him, she sat down with her back to him. The shifter snorted in amusement. Noting the wink and smirk, Saljin shook his head. It was going to be interesting with the oni around. "Your new friend seems annoyed at you now, Taj. Shame on you."The god shrugged, lips curling upwards in even more amusement. It would do her some good to be annoyed. Make her stop and think about what she really wanted. Cinderfae Karaskis headed down the stairs Ashe close at her heels as she moved. She could hear Taj and the others coming as well. They were a small group but hopefully since the demons likely weren't expecting them they would have the jump on the creatures. As they neared the doors of the Pantheon she slowed pausing a moment to look out a broken window near the front of the building, nodding slightly she pushes the front door open and steps out her fiery eyes taking in the scene. A quick movement out of the corner of her eye drew her attention; she went to draw her weapon only to find it seemed too slow. Ashe however was there and with a quick swipe a small demon fell to the ground it's camouflage dissipating as it lay twitching on the ground. "Damn," she murmured under her breath if she had been alone she would have been too slow frowning she glanced back toward the others. "Keep your eyes open, there are some pests out here...it'll likely only get worse the further we get from the Pantheon." A somewhat grave look on her face she didn't pause long, Ashe however moved up much as a good bodyguard would. Eftemie Taj silently followed Karaskis as they moved towards the area where the lake house was. Every now and then he heard a sound scuttling back from the grouping. Nothing was seen, but he figured it was whatever small creatures that still managed to hang onto their lives. Several crushed oni dolls lay in the pathway, causing an intense scowl on his face. At that point he was certain that he had made the right decision conserning their presence in the pantheon. Saljin stopped to pick one fo the pieces up, shaking his head. "So she was right about what what they were doing. Let's hope others got away from them and find some safety. Otherwise Hagenti and those with her might be the last."Tempest smirked, glancing down at the fragments. "All the same to me. Just point which ones to shoot."The shifter stopped turning to stare at the man for a moment. Then he just shook his head walking forwards. "I'm not even going to get started on that comment."Cinderfae Moving toward the Lake House Karaskis paused allowing Cinder to take dominance for a moment. The house had been the pilot's home for sometime so her familiarity would be useful. "Alright, there are three main exits from the house, front door, back door off the porch, and through my workshop." She gestured toward the garage and then glanced back at the others. Fiery eyes scanned the building thoughtfully, "I'd say a large grouping of them have taken residence in the living room area of the house, the basement is likely also packed. Less movement coming from the top floors." Catching sight of some movement coming up from the right of the house she pulled the charm that Yaxha had given her out of her jacket, "lets see how these things work."A small beast likely some sort of imp paused eying the group. Not sure it'll bother with us, as it is just a small demon and we are a large group of heavily armed people, well in comparison.Saying I should be nice to it?Of course not it would just slit your throat while you slept or something if it ever got the chance.Rolling her eyes slightly Cinder moved forward glancing from the imp to the pendant, the creature hissed and darted off when she got close, "I'd say that's inconclusive...not sure if it ran because of the charm."Furrowing her brow she looked up a deep frown on her face, "hounds!" Cinder started back pedaling from the line of the decrepit forest that ran along the side of the lake house. From within the forest the sound of creatures could be heard running, she wondered idly if the imp had been attempting to lead them to the pack. Holding her rifle ready she waited for them to break the treeline, as they did the head of one of the lead hounds burst as the sound of a shotgun rang through the area. Glancing around she knew the shot hadn't come from their group, her eyes caught sight of a white shape moving quickly through the forest, "looks like we have friendlies lets try not to shoot them." It was only a half mumble as she took aim into the pack of about ten hounds. Eftemie Taj nodded, shooting the laser pistol at them, hitting what he could. Taking the legs of one, caused two others to stumble over it, slowling them down slightly. The imp was nowhere to be seen, but he continued firing into the grouping. With them that close, it would not take long to destroy them all. Whether the charms worked or not, the demons had to be dealt with. And while he was around, he was going to look for dolls too. Hagenti and Anji had only had those two small boxes. There had to be more. The shifter had likewise pulled his pistol firing into them. "Save your shells, Tempest. But here." He had motioned for Tempest to hold off for the moment to save shells, but handed him one of the pistols he carried. With the ability to change shape, he carried his weapons with him. "Thanks." Stepping back, Tempest watched behind them and around the sides to make sure that it was not an ambush. He studied the pistol as he did so, thinking that he should be able to use it. Taking a shot or two at the hounds, he realized that there was alot of power in the gun he now held. He wondered if they'd let him keep it. He'd not have to worry about shells. Simply keeping it charged. Cinderfae During the brief firing upon the hounds shots from the forest bursted randomly into the grouping of them. The shots were loud those of a shotgun Cinder decided. Moving forward the pilot used her experience to make the shots that were placed at least from her fall among the hounds the best she could. Cutting down a good half of the pack the others turned off scattering, the hounds deciding that this meal bit too much to be worth it. Flipping her long braid over her shoulder she looked back at the others, "lets go see who else is out here." Her eyes flicker over toward the treeline looking for where she saw the flash of white earlier. "Likely survivors that need some help, might be best to see if we can get them to band together with us," she murmured to her group softly before moving forward. The group didn't have to move much into the forest before the mysterious gunner showed themselves. Standing not far from a rotted out tree was a white draconian, her wings were folded close to her back as she regarded the group. For a moment Cinder just had Karaskis stand, her mind took in the Draconian a moment before speaking her voice very much that of a mortal's was filled with astonishment, "Pers - Clotho?" She had almost called the Draconian Persephone, as the resemblance to her now dead co-pilot was very apparent to her but she knew that Persephone was long dead...so this had to be her daughter. The Draconian watched her uneasily a moment hands still wrapped around the shotgun she was holding. She recognized the voice from when she was a child but Cinder's appearance had changed greatly gripping her shotgun uneasily she spoke, "what the hell happened to you?"Cinder then remembered how she had changed, "it's a long story, that we don't really have time for." Her eyes looked over the forest as she spoke, she wondered how much time they had before the creatures attempted to come back. Clotho tensed hearing the voice change her eyes looking somewhat guarded. From further back in the forest a young teenage boy moved up to stand close to Clotho, he was somewhat tall and lanky with dark hair that tumbled over his shoulders. A strange tattoo moved over his left eye and upon his back he had huge midnight blue dragon wings. Standing next to Clotho Cinder was almost positive they were Draconian wings; breeding between the races wasn't possible she was fairly sure even if it wouldn't have been taboo in the part of space she was from. As the boy moved closer and Cinder got a look at his face she found herself fully in control of her body jolted into it by surprise. Looking at the boy's face was like looking back in time at Caspian. Caspian that had left her so many years ago... Her voice was soft and despite the danger creeping up on them she looked to Clotho with a somewhat shaky voice, "who's that?"
The boy looked up hearing her voice, and she looked at his eyes for the first time. They were hers...her eyes on Caspian's face. The boy answered her question. "My name is Rhys," his voice was neutral and thoughtful. She looked to Clotho the Draconian had to know that isn't what she meant.
"He is Cinder's son," Clotho wasn't sure what exactly was going on, there was something strange happening. But maybe it was Cinder under whatever was happening to her. Eftemie Taj raised an eyebrow at the statement, but only from surprise. Cinder and Karaskis would both deal with it and he would support whatever they decided. He put a hand to Kara's shoulder briefly squeezing it. "He's Tajnevaki, I'm Saljin, and that's Tempest. We need to deal with the head demon here. It's the only way to free up this area." Saljin stated, as both he and Tempest watched the area warily. "We need to be quick before they bring back more. Without him, we will have an advantage to keep them at bay."Tempest moved slightly ahead of them, watching the shadows carefully. "We need to do this before they know we are here also. So far I don't think they've heard us inside the house."Cinderfae Before Cinder could start out with a ton of questions Karaskis let her presence be known, now is not the time. Cinder twitched but forced herself to calm some, later would be better and be less likely to get them dead...later. Her eyes fell to the boy with Caspian's eyes and she just barely kept from shivering. During the few moments the interaction between Cinder and Karaskis happened Clotho watched them her tail flickering as she did; keeping her hand rested on her weapon. "Our ship didn't make it, this place has some sort of decaying virus I'm guessing it attacked the metal." Ashe moved forward slightly his eyes flickering toward Clotho and her weapon, his stance protective. Right later, lets make sure they don't kill each other.Stepping forward the stance and presence was more Cinder despite the touch of the goddess within her, the smoke curled lightly around her as she moved between Ashe and Clotho, "as was pointed out there are demons. We are going after the head one to help clear out this area a little. You should take yourself and..." her eyes flickered to the boy and then back to Clotho, "him to a large black building not far from here. It'll be safe there." The Draconian quirked a brow, her eyes flickering over toward the forest as howls came from within it, "I don't think any place is safe right now, we've been tracking you for a while. Not going off to find cover while you head to danger...plus I have a feeling you'll need the help.""The thought is appreciated but I would prefer if you two were safe." Her eyes flickered toward Rhys as she spoke. Really she knew from appearances that Clotho was ever bit the warrior that her mother had been; Rhys however was mostly human and young...and she didn't want to risk losing him when she didn't even know him. Rhys looked up his grey blue eyes strangely rimmed with silver regarding her and then the others for a moment. Although no more then fifteen at the most he spoke with age and authority, "You'll need the help and I can handle myself. I suggest we get moving."Cinder blinked slightly, the dusky laughter of the goddess filled their shared mind, I see a bit of you in him as well."Alright, if you two won't head to safety...this is what we need to do." She then gestured to the lake house before continuing, "we need to get the head demon from there...I think entering through the workshop may be our best bet. They don't seem to have guards up so shouldn't be hard to get there just a question of dealing with what is inside."Motioning to the others she moved forward toward the garage and gestured to the door along the side that lead to her old workshop. With a quick motion toward the porch she gestured Saljin toward a lone demon that was walking along the planks it seemed to be a smaller creature. She hoped the shifter could neutralize it without making too much of a stir. She then motioned the others to spread out to go in through the door. Eftemie Saljin nodded, shifting to crow shape. A moment more and he was up in the air and behind the demon. As he dropped down behind him, his feline shape appeared. As he landed on the plank behind it and more than twice its size, the shifter reached out immediately to snap its neck in his jaws instantly. It twitched for a moment but then went entirely limp in his grasp. Dropping it, he watched as the corpse began to dissolve away. Motioning them forwards, he watched for signs of any other demons nearby. Tempest shook his head. "Not something I'd want in my mouth."Taj shrugged and grinned. Not what he'd want either but Saljin had learned long ago to do what was necessary without hesitation. It was the only way he'd survived the last 100 years. He wondered what Saljin had in store for the lead demon. The shifter had been rather secretive lately and studying the various forms that Mycroft had given him. Cinderfae She waited until she heard the demon fall and waited. Not hearing anything else coming from the porch, she took account of where Clotho and Rhys were; satisfied that they were back enough she took a count on her fingers from three to one. On one she spun forward and kicked the door in with the heel of her thick grav-lock boot; with a dull sound the door burst inward. Moving forward quickly her eyes scanned the area her weapon out. Karaskis or Cinder it didn't really matter now but it was clear this was mostly from Cinder's memories on how to move. Damn, that door hurt...No more metal in your legs.The work area had a variety of tables and tools sitting around and for now seemed eerily quiet. A sound coming from the right drew her attention. Squeezing off a shot a form fell to the ground not materializing entirely until it fell. It was a demon slightly taller then a human, frowning slightly Karaskis murmurs; "keep an eye out. Seems we aren't alone."There was a rushing sound and five more creatures started materializing throughout the room. More sounds suggested that yet more were unseen. Clotho snarled slightly and spinning she grabs up a screwdriver and drives it into the chest of one of the demons. The beast falls down twitching; Rhys wasn't completely unprepared a surge stick appearing at his side. With the close quarters Ashe took a short sword from his hip, skewering one of the materialized beasts. "Make a circle backs inward don't let them materialize behind us."Eftemie None of them said a word as Taj didn't hesitate grabbing one of the larger wrenches and slamming it against the head of one of the demons that came from the shadows. He hit it several times to ensure it would not be getting up again. His own back was to Kara's as Tempest moved up beside him. Moving just to the side, Tempest reached into the darkness and pulled out a struggling imp. Holding on with one hand, he pulled his knife from his belt sliding it across the creature's throat. Claws raked across his hand, but it was not deep, just barely breaking the skin. Saljin moved with them, warily keeping an eye out for what they did not immediately see. He did not want to reveal his shifting ability quite yet so he simply remained watchful of the rest. It would be an advantage so long as it was unseen. He was quite certain that it would be necessary against the leading demon. Cinderfae Pulling the charm that Yaxha had given her from within her jacket Cinder shot a creature halfway materialized. With the charm out a few of the demons seemed to shy away and escape out the side door they had come in. The charm glowed eeriely in the low light, pausing for breath she scanned the area with a slight frown. A creature hiding under the workbench lashed out, slicing her pants luckily the thick boots stopped it's claws from hitting her skin. Before Cinder or Karaskis had time to react there was a dull thud as Clotho brought down the butt of the shotgun she had been using and broke the creature's neck. Quirking a brow Karaskis looked to Clotho and offered a nod of thanks. The Draconian snorted and flickered her tail before moving to help defend. She didn't know what was going on but it was apparent that Cinder was not fully the person she use to be. Ashe started doing a quick round of the room before nodding to the group that it was safe. Rhys took the opportunity to move over to the work station. His grey blue eyes with the strange silver rim around them thoughtfully looked over the supplies Cinder had once used before starting to gather some up. Frowning slightly Ashe moved over to get a look, "what are you doing? We don't have much time."Karaskis tilted her head to look as well, watching the young man a moment Cinder's thoughts kicked in. "He's going to make a bomb."The somewhat overly serious expression belonging to Cinder's son looked up toward her before nodding, "it's like an infestation. The only way you'll really clear them out is to burn them out completely."Ashe moved as if to reach for him, "I like fire more then most but I thought we were trying to take the house back."Cinder's hand reached out to stop him from grabbing the boy, Karaskis then looked over to Taj a moment before looking back toward Rhys. It was Cinder's voice that spoke however, "galactic procedure for alien lifeforms that swarm. No telling if it will actually work against these, and yes we were going to try and salvage the house but it may not be possible." Looking sharply to Rhys she spoke to him directly the moral and goddess' voice combining. "Save it for a last course of action, meaning no blowing anything up unless we tell you to."Nodding his head slightly Rhys frowned at the voice change but then hurriedly put what he needed into his pack. "This room is clear then," the unhappiness in Ashe's voice was apparent but he moved toward the door leading further into the house. "The head demon is holed up in the basement we believe, the door to the basement isn't far from this one...suggesting a bash and dash from here."Eftemie  Taj watched Rhys a moment, smiling. The boy was very interesting and his attitude was obviously older than his age and appearance. He moved forwards towards the door slowly on the opposite side from Ashe. Saljin nodded, but then added, "Tempest, stay towards the back. Most likely there are several others with him. I'll shift as soon as I see him and get behind him. I think I'll be able to handle him a few minutes, but I'll need some help fast."
"I can do that, Saljin. I'll try to cripple him to keep him from running too." Tempest readied the pistol he was carrying. "It won't do to have him running again. It will make the demons in this area think twice about attacking anyone." He hoped this solved the problem. He still needed to find his sister and with them attacking he could not do so.
"I think I have a surprise for the demon anyhow." Saljin smirked faintly as he glanced around the others. "Ready when you all are."Cinderfae She moved up to open the door, a frown from Ashe made her pause with a quirked brow. Her fiery eyes swirled slightly in annoyance, as if he recognized the site Ashe turned and bowed slightly murmuring, "Mi'lady if there is greater danger it lies behind this door. Allow me to go first, I would not want to put you at risk."Her hand flexed in annoyance, but she stepped back and gestured forward. She saw the wisdom even annoying as it was in what he was saying.
I didn't think you were going to let him go first.I almost didn't, but he is correct I am not as powerful as I once was. And he is attempting to get some glimmer of his former duties.Former duties?My memories are faded but I believe he was the guardian of my head priestess, the priestess at my largest temple.Before the two minds could ponder more the implications of Ashe attempting to guard his goddess the door leading out toward the basement was splintered open with a swift kick. "Keep an eye down either hall."Reaching over she moved herself between Rhys and the hall before stepping out and taking aim, a shot killing some small creature that skittered along the carpet. "Basement is just ahead to the right," allowing the others to take guarding positions and take down whatever beasts may be prowling she moved back toward the wall and pushed the basement door open. Surprisingly it opened easily enough, left staring down the black gaping darkness of the below she was broke from reverie as one of the demonic creatures in the house took notice and blue flame burst down the hall. "Lets keep moving!" Without more thought of what might be in the basement she took a few steps down using the stair well as cover as she helped thin out the creatures coming up from the rear. Eftemie At the sight of flame shooting down the hallway, Taj indicated that Tempest take a spot beside Ashe as they moved into the basement. There were more than likely several demons downstairs. Mystery himself, hung back to keep track of what was behind them. They might need a way out and he was planning to keep it open for them. Saljin followed behind Karaskis. He was specifically looking for the lead demon. His eyes adjusted to the darkness, the gloom below quickly as the others began to take out the few creatures that challenged their presence. It was then he saw and heard the quarry he was after. Its eyes glowed from the darkest corner of the basement. Tempest flipped on the light revealing even more as the creatures scattered at the light. The demon was growling commands as he himself moved to the side looking for an avenue of escape. The shifter glanced over at Tempest. "Be ready, Tempest." Then he focused on his crow shape, skin soon changing to feathers and wings. Taking to the air, he flew to just behind the creature as several of the smaller ones skittered away on the creature's orders. Dropping low so none saw him, he focused. Hopefully it would work this time. Feathers began to change and reshape. Stretching. Pulling. Developing as he needed. Fur covered flesh and bone as he moved forwards. Saljin growled inwardly as he tried to move, to control the appendages. Having them did no good if he could not use them. Deadweight otherwise. Then he had control and moved forwards, wrapping two arms about the creature as it began fighting, claws scraping and trying to make him release it. Instead, Saljin winced and wrapped the other two arms about the creature, trying to ensure it did not flee this time.
"Tempest! Someone! Now! I have him!" he growled, wincing again as the creature's claws managed to dig into his body. He'd have to have those cleaned well later. Cinderfae She had little time to look over the room before Saljin made his move, her eyes shifted toward the lead demon as well; his curled horns and sickly skin were easy to identify. The noise of the shotgun going off to close to her sounded, a shadow demon fell to the side of the stairs a gaping hole from Clotho's weapon in it's chest. As others acted she did as well, once Saljin moved across the room and dropped into what she believed was probably a bit like a Priman. The goddess and host didn't let themselves get distracted, moving down the stairs she called behind her, "Rhys! Get that ready, we'll have to blow the infestation."Clotho dropped down next to Rhys to give him cover as the boy started working with the various things he picked up from Cinder's workstation. The Draconian's shotgun kept up, almost rhythmic as she shot and pumped only to shoot with quick precise aim despite her weapon. Ashe jumped the side of the stairs landing with his sword splayed through a demon hiding beneath. Hearing Saljin's cry Ashe sped forward only to stop short, bringing up his gauntleted arm to block a blow from the demon. It was then that Ashe spotted a figure from the floor, long back hair spilled over scarlet cloth rose and he realized it had been a creature, like the Oni that Taj kept, crumpled to the ground. There was weariness and wrath written across worn and bruised features as she produced from the folds of her elaborate clothing a thin bladed dagger. With a flash from her dark eyes the blade moved forward, a small blade it stuck into the back of the demon causing the beast to cry out but not damaging the lead demon mortally. Thrashing the claw of one arm let out of Saljin and the demon spun attempting to knock away the new attacker. The scarlet clad Oni went flying, Ashe focused his mind on the thread and moved forward shifting his blade to sink into the demon's gullet. Using the hilt of her gun to smash in the face of one of the acid spitters Karaskis spun hearing the lead demon cry out, black blood burbled over Ashe's weapon as the creature started to fall. Ashe moved quickly grabbing up the scarlet demon and calling to his mistress, "she helped us!" Not having time to argue Karaskis motioned to the others before moving to the stairs, "out! No telling what might happen with him down." Rhys called to her as she drew near, "need a bit of flame..." there was a bit of challenge in his voice as if he didn't believe she could actually create any. Instead of rising or attempting to explain Karaskis pushed Ashe ahead and leaned down calling forth a bit of the power she did have to light the makeshift fuse, "now run." Seeing his creation lit Rhys took to the stairs with Clotho and Karaskis not far behind him. Eftemie The moment the demon went down and Ashe picked up the oni, Saljin was moving for the door. Trying to get his bearings to see where they needed help. He winced once or twice as he moved but there was no time to tend wounds now after he saw the fuse being lit. And he'd worry about the arms later. Taj fired down the hallway at the top of the basement door, ensuring that those few there were not going to stop them from getting out. Glancing over his shoulder he tried to make sure that everyone was out. Tempest moved towards the door leading out of the house. He sent a few scattered shots around to be certain that nothing stood in their way of getting out. Glancing back quickly at Taj, he caught his eyes indicating that he would head out and keep their way there open. Cinderfae Allowing Cinder's instincts to almost take over completely Karaskis ran through the way they had come. Pausing in the workshop and bolting down the door behind them once she was certain all that had come with them had gotten through; despite his burden Ashe refused to leave his mistress. "Now lets go!" There some some irritation in the goddess' voice but part of her understood her guard's loyalty - perhaps with some almost forgotten memory. Knowing Ashe wouldn't move ahead Karaskis ran for the door, the thoughts of her host emphasizing that the time was almost up.
"Keep moving!" Cinder's voice rang out to any that had slowed near the house, the chemicals Rhys had mixed would make quite the bang and she wanted everyone clear. Rhys and Clotho hadn't slowed as if knowing what the consequences would be. There was a cracking sound and then an earthshaking explosion, Karaskis dropped to the ground on instinct, more worried about the flying debris rather then the fire. Ashe stopped using his broad shoulders and body to shield the scarlet clad Oni as he did. The house erupted in a spout of flame. The debris shot upward but fell toward the center of where the house once was, the fire however spread outward rolling over Ashe as it does. Rhys' eyes were wide watching the area where the elemental was and trembling. The fire didn't rage long, the burst dissipating and leaving the smell of chemicals in the air. Karaskis spun looking behind her as well, rising panic slowing as she sees the hunched over figure of Ashe stand. His flesh blackened for a moment but then as it starts to cool in the air turning more normal in appearance; the tips of his hair that flicker as living flame burn in bright colors as they feed off the chemicals in the air. Hurriedly moving from the fire he tugs off what is left of the shirt he was wearing looking down at the Oni in his arms.
"How? Uh..."Ashe smiled faintly looking to the boy and glanced to Karaskis as he spoke, "I was born of fire, my goddess created me from it. It does not harm me."Rhys looked uneasily to Karaskis and then Clotho, before the boy could attempt to rebel Karaskis clapped her hands together to get everyone's attention. "That explosion will have grabbed notice...lets get back to the pantheon. And then figure out where to go from there."Eftemie Saljin, Tempest, and Taj dove for the ground as the explosion rocked the area. Mystery got to his feet brushing himself off as he watched Ashe. He had suspected from what Karaskis said of him that fire would not injure him. The oni in his arms looked no worse for the wear either. Hagenti would most likely know her and he'd send her to help tend. The shifter winced, getting to his feet slowly. With a bit of focus he had only two arms again and his own features. "Is everyone alright?" He glanced around first for Taj and then at Tempest. They all seemed to be intact.
"Nicely done, Saljin. Those injuries look bad though." Tempest stated, on his feet and moving towards the shifter as he watched around them.
"I said I had a surprise for him. Mycroft gave me some anatomy of various creatures. I've been studying it, but that's the first time I was actually able to control the arms. Good thing. Nothing less would have held him."Taj moved the tattered pieces of Saljin's sleeves to inspect the wounds and then indicated they needed to get moving. Both men fell in behind Ashe and the others to move towards the Pantheon. They were glad this was done. Now they could relax and look for another house. It would relieve the cramped quarters they had in Kaelin's room. 
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:58 am
Beyond Miffed
10.01.08 Solo Pretzel had not been paying attention to the things happening around him except where they concerned he himself. Each chance he got he still taunted those that could see and hear him. Except when Tajnevaki or Jaster were around. Both spoiled his fun by making him behave. At least as much as he could. If not trapped in the staff, the creature would have been corrupting the innocents hea came into contact with. It had been punishment for that sort of behaviour that had placed him within the wooden structure of the staff. And it had been meted out by Mystery long ago before the fading. His anger against the god had never cooled. And from all indications the god was not going to release him anytime soon. Unless he was tricked into it and made to think that Pretzel had reformed. As the evil thing calculated, a malicious plan began to form-shape within its demented mind. If it were good for a short time, then perhaps Taj would think that he had indeed changed. Good? The smirk was inwards and the thought very distasteful. Almost as vomit was to one ill. But if he were 'good', then perhaps Taj could be fooled into thinking he had reformed and the god would set him free. It was a slim chance, but with Taj in control, it was possible. The staff stood in the corner, but Triq was outside. She had left him behind and seemed to be doing that more often than not now. The aoidei seemed to need him less and less as his influence over her faded with the god's closeness. As Taj walked through the room, Pretzel called to him. My Lord, might I speak to you a moment?
Taj stopped glancing over at the creature in the staff. It suddenly occurred to him that with no voice, he would never be able to release the creature from its prison. He supposed he should tell him, but he was quite certain that Pretzel had not reformed enough to be set free anyhow. Pretzel was more wicked than most and he was simply trying to weedle his way out. Folding his arms, Taj simply waited. Well, he had his attention at least. My Lord, Pretzel began, I was wondering when my punishment was goingt to be up? It has been an extremely long time since you placed me here. I was even here while you were gone. I cannot say I even remember what it was I did. Do you?Mystery simply watched him then shrugged. He could not remember entirely, but he knew it had greatly injured a child. The one thing he could not tolerate. But he did remember the placement of the creature into the staff. He had held him up by one hand and cast the punishment out, obscuring the creature's presence there except to those innocents similar to which he had injured that caused his downfall. But they would see him for who he truly was and he could not pretend or trick them into believing what he was not. They saw the real Pretzel and shuddering would leave. Triq was the only one who put up with him. He remembered briefly leaving the staff where it would not be found for a long time.
Then perhaps it is time I was freed. If neither of us can remember the crime, does that not mean it no longer matters? His voice dropped, softly. Piously. Contrite. Jaster stirred uneasily. And the way he treats Triq means he has learned nothing at all.
I agree, though I do not remember why I sealed him there. I do know it injured greatly a soul that I cherished. His name, my voice, and a great deal of anger placed him there. Taj considered thoughtfully for a moment what he should do. Then he simply stared at Pretzel. Shaking his head, he turned away from Pretzel.
But My Lord.... A protestation should stop him from leaving and perhaps make him reconsider. Pretzel plotted actions that would get him his way. Taj halted, then pulled out the pad of paper from his pocket. He wrote a few words then turned it around so the creatuer could see. It was little, but it was the most Pretzel deserved. Mystery did not care if he remained in the staff for all of eternity.
No voice to speak,
What remains held
Is tightly fixed
To Ages of Eternity.
Pretzel had learned to read. Triq had taught him that, putting up with his tempers and insults. At first he had no understanding. Then he stared at Taj, gazing at him silently. No voice? What does that mean?Then as a drop of water suddenly causes a dry spot of soil to gleam, so too did understanding light up in the creature's tiny mind. It rained down upon Pretzel as a torrent, a waterfall, a tidal wave, hitting him and knocking him down. Tajnevaki had no voice. A thunderous sound had sealed him into the staff and without a voice the god could not release him. He blinked staring, entirely offguard, plots and schemes washed away. No release? Ever?Taj shook his head, indicating the marking on his face. His voice had been given to another with love to protect and hide. Although still unsure if it had worked or not, both he and Jaster had accepted their fate easily. The fact that it bound Pretzel more tightly did not matter to them. His was punishment given. And always would be. Pretzel suddenly exploded. Damned stupid god! How assinine are you for losing your voice? How am I ever to be free now? Bah! Stupid stupid gods! A pox on you all! I'm not pretending to behave anymore! Flames burst around the creature though they burned nothing at all. The tirade continued as Taj watched.
He did not learn a thing. Jaster's voice was distant but even he could see that Pretzel never would understand. His eyes narrowed at the creature, staring at it gaze hardened. For a moment, he listened to the rant as even worse language was spouted about. Moving the staff into the pantry, he focused as he did so. Pretzel needed time to cool off. If not then he'd make sure the creature vanished entirely from sight whether Triq protested or not. In all the years, Pretzel had learned nothing but been pretending and he knew that Triq had put up with a great deal from the creature. He would learn or disappear forevermore. Taj walked away, shutting the door behind him. Noticing the dark, Pretzel began pleading, but his words fell on deaf ears A point needed to be made and Pretzel would learn. It was being served now.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 8:59 am
Vanished Seed
09.27.08 Solo Growling at him, Hagenti turned, her arms still loaded with wooden dolls. When she realized the place was abandoned, the oni scowled angrily. "Let's go find a box, Anji. It will make it easier for us, but just don't let them see you." Anji groused, muttering, but he was certain she was right. They stood little chance against the larger demons. This god could protect them. If he would. And the dolls they had found would serve him also when they changed for a chance. But that was between he and they then. They were demons of a sort. Oni some called them. Mischief makers that caused trouble for the unwary. The fact that Taj had been able to see them and accepted what they were meant that he did not mind their troublesome ways. In fact, he seemed to appreciate it, finding amusement in them. Hagenti had been hesitant though curious about him. And after speaking to him a short time, she had known they should be with him. Strangely the colors she and some of the others wore and liked were his own. They were meant for him and he would protect them. Their presence in this place was not of their own doing, but they were going to take advantage of it and find a home serving him to remain. Riffling through the various piles as they watched out for the demons, prowling the ruined and abandoned lake house. Anji and Hagenti found what they were looking for and quickly pushed the dolls into two boxes. One for each of them. That way if one was caught, the rest had a chance to survive. A sudden sound nearby sent both scurrying for cover, the dolls clutched firmly to them. A larger winged demon stalked by. Twice it hesitated as if it sensed something but both oni held their breath waiting for it to move onward. When it finally did so, disappearing in the brush nearby, they both hurried in the opposite direction.
"Where is he, Hagenti? You said he would be here." Anji's voice changed between a furious growl and a nervous twitch mixed with some fear and disappointment.
"I think they got chased out of here." Pointing to the large black building in the distance, she added, "He said if not here, he would be there. We go there but we must hurry." She moved down the path quickly, warily watching the shadows as they approached and then passed. They did not often approach the cities of men when summoned here, having little chance to do as they wished. Most were called to a dark cavern or some other dark place the summoners tried to hide within. But under the circumstances both oni found themselves in, they would make an exception for him. They had nearly reached the Pantheon when a group suddenly appeared several yards behind them. Spotting the oni, one growled out orders to the others. The entire grouping began to run towards Hagenti and her companion.
"Run!" she growled as she clutched the box closely to her and sprinted for the doorway. The doors were larger than they'd be able to open quickly. She spotted the broken windows. If they got inside fast enough maybe they had a chance. It had been a rough last few days, but it was becoming a way of life to them. Demon hunting that was. But Taj found time to sit beside the pod and talk to him. At least his thoughts spoke and he hoped that He could hear him. Even with no reply both he and Jaster believed.
"I think you are beginning to enjoy this too much," Saljin stated as they walked out the door. He smirked as Taj played with the guns from his hip to make sure they were working. A grin crossed his face, but then he caught sight of a flash of blue leaping in the window. Was that an oni? Then he saw the demons heading their way. So had Saljin and both began shooting without hesitation at them. A smirk appeared on his face that for once they'd not have to hunt them but the creatures had been obliging on their arrival at the street in front. Two went down immediately causing the rest to stop. Their quarry was out of sight and the one in charge glared at the god and his friend before tossing out orders that were more grunt than actual words. They moved as one towards Taj and Saljin who continued firing.
"It is Him!" Hagenti said, poking her head back out the window. She was so happy to see him. They were safe now. And so were the dolls. Anji silently stared at the figure aiming his weapons at the demons. "Take out the big one! He's the boss of these!"
Taj glanced over grinning suddenly, then looked meaningfully at Saljin. The shifter nodded, but sighed. He would need to get closer than this.
"Hold them off. I'll be right back." With a bit of focus, he shifted to a raven flying directly upwards and out of sight. Then he dove downwards aiming for just behind the boss demon. Saljin smirked as he moved silently through the air changing back as he landed. Then he simply fired several times into the back of the creature. It turned in pain as the lasers slid into it, but then its head dropped to the ground rolling forwards to stop at the feet of another. A series of growls and grunts snorted free and all scattered. The body of the demon dissolved as Saljin and Taj continued firing at those escaping. Taj waiting until Saljin joined him before heading back inside. Two oni were peeking out the window still and he stopped just inside waiting for them.
"Friends of yours?" The shifter asked amused. Somehow it would figure if Taj did know them. The god shrugged, smiling as he watched Hagenti a moment. Then the other one was studied also. He raised an eyebrow expectantly at her, his gaze returned calmly by the female oni.
"Um... Sorry about that. We went to the house like you said, but there were too many demons there and you were not there, Lord." Her voice was a bit nervous and more than a little unsure. "He's a shifter." She tried to shift the attention from herself to Saljin. Taj folded his arms merely waiting. His eyes were on her and the box she held closely. The other had one also. Filled with what looked to be wooden dolls. She met his gaze but then followed it down to the dolls inside. "Well, you see... these are others like us. We are usually summoned here, but these oni are not developed and the demons out there are destroying any they find. Oh! This is Anji. I needed him to help. I didn't think you would mind. Thanks for the help but it was your fault." The words were blurted out as Taj raised an eye at the accusation. Nervously her toe scuffed the floor though no imprint was left behind. Taj's lips twitched though he waited for an explanation. He had nodded to Anji though Hagenti was the one with his attention.
"Well..." she began again. "You weren't where you were supposed to be and well.. it's not our fault we brought company."
Saljin snorted breaking into laughter then. "She's trouble, Taj." His smirk was clear for an instant, then he started in surprise. "Oni? You knew what they were? This will cause all sorts of trouble."
Taj watched her suddenly grinning as he picked up a doll to look at. Then he replaced it gently into the box, pulling out the pad. Protect them well, Big Sister.
"Taj!" Saljin protested faintly. "They are demons as much as those out there!"He simply turned, gazing at Saljin. Then he shrugged indicating that both she and Anji were to follow him. The shifter sighed, hoping this did not cause trouble.
"Oh yeah, Anji. I forgot to tell you. He doesn't talk. Not sure why, but he doesn't." She whispered softly as they hurried to keep up with the god's stride to the staircase.
"Who is he?" Anji asked, frowning slightly. "He almost reminds me of a tengu with those wings. But the tail is different."
"Mystery. His is Mystery, Anji and I think we finally found one we can happily serve." The oni had been looking a long time and she was certain Taj was the one they needed. Summonings had always been by mortals who wanted power, were greedy, or some other condition they could manipulate. And once the summoner was entirely corrupted, spent, they would have to move on. Many were restless and refused the summonings as their own strength increased. Others answered, but it was only fleeting moments through the ages where nothing was really accomplished. Someone always wanted something from them. Taj did not seem to and Hagenti had recognized it instantly. It was the only reason she had brought Anji and the dolls to him. When the planes were restored, if they served, they would remain and in a way that other demons would not. It was a chance to find what even the oni wanted. A home and Master who wanted them for no other reason than he did. She was certain Mystery was one such Master and this was their opportunity. Only time would tell if she were right or not, but a chance had to be taken. She and Anji had. For all those within the boxes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:00 am
Box Of Dolls
11.08.08 Joint with Cinderfae Una Daughter of Water Humming to herself happily Una sat in the corner of her father's room, well it was more like a cave and even with all the new arrivals she had found enough room on one edge to play. Digging through her patchwork backpack she set aside a couple of books, some crayons, and other various odds and ends she had collected before coming to a cigar box hidden in the bottom of it. She had found the box the other day and was highly interested at looking over the dolls she had found more closely. Surrounded by her various play items she sat for a moment with the aged cigar box on her lap, opening it up slowly she peeked inside at the dolls within it. There were half a dozen dolls within the container, the little goddess grinned happily looking them over each looked exciting and unique. Smiling to herself Una set the box in front of her and started taking the dolls out one by one, she giggled slightly looking at the silly square hat one was wearing. "Well at least your feathers are pretty..." smiling she glances over to Mr. Peeps the imaginary blue bird sits tilting his head looking over the dolls as well. They certainly were interesting additions to her playthings and Mr. Peeps was fairly certain each had it's own distinct personality. Giggling slightly she nodded to Mr. Peeps before lining the dolls up in front of her, moving forward she laid on her stomach to get a look at each of them. There appeared to be three girl dolls and three male, at least three with the prettier clothing and longer hair. The bows she decided meant that those were the girls, most seemed to think bows were for girls. She didn't rightly understand that herself but it made sense. Tilting her head she paused to 'listen' to the dolls as she 'listened' to Mr. Peeps, if they were going to stay with her she had to learn their personalities. Eftemie Anji had slipped out a few times, creeping around the buildings near the pantheon. He was searching for more dolls though he had found only one or two. Some were in pieces and others were intact. It was the whole ones they wanted. Each time he only brought back a handful. The search for the other oni was going on also. Some he knew were subjected by the larger demons and could not get free, but there were at least he and Hagenti as well as their slowly growing box of dolls.
Noticing the broken one nearby, he moved closer, carefully making sure there were no demons in the area. Shaking his head, he sighed, but then noticed a couple more. Searching more carefully, he smiled when he saw how many he had. There were about half as many as they already had here. This was good. Very good for them.
"Hagenti will be glad." he murmurred faintly. "And so will the god." Perhaps.
Hagenti herself, carefully checked each one of those they already had, standing them up in the box where before they had no time to do so. Each doll was gently put into place after ensuring there were no cracks or breaks in them. She was so happy to have found Tajnevaki and the other gods here that would protect them. But as she carefully closed the top over those she had, a faint nudge poked at her. She shivered lightly wondering what was going on. It was almost as if another one of her race or more were here. It was a familiar sensation, but she knew that Anji was going to check one of the houses nearby again. So who was it?
Pushing the box back where it was hidden, she got to her feet. Drawn by the sensation she was getting, she slowly walked from the room towards the main area. Creeping as she watched the others around them. What was it she was looking for? Una Daughter of Water Una tilted her head a moment looking at one of the wooden dolls, "well this one has a very silly hat." Pausing she waited for Mr. Peeps to respond nodding slightly to the imaginary bird she reached forward and tugged the little hat off the wooden doll. Mr. Peeps agreed it just couldn't stay as it wasn't a very practical hat either. Una smiled, as she listened to the doll in dark red tell her a little about herself. The dolls apparently were fond of sweets just like she was. Una knew they would be great friends, pausing in her playing the little goddess glanced over toward the side of the room. From her vantage point she was somewhat obscured by the bed but she could see someone moving around as if they were looking for something. Most times she might have let such a thing go but Yaxha wasn't letting her wander around the Pantheon on her own and she couldn't go outside so she was mostly bored and decided she should investigate. Quickly she settled the dolls back into the box and moved over to crawl onto the big bed that took up most the center of the room. Tilting her head Una sat and watched the one horned Oni a moment before speaking, "did you lose something?" The box of dolls sat in her lap the top of the cigar box closed as she asked. Eftemie "Not exactly." Hagenti replied vaguely still searching for whatever it was the she could sense. It was almost as if those of her own race called to her in some fashion. But she was not sure what it was exactly. There didn't appear to be anyone here other than she and Anji and the dolls she had packed away. Shaking her head, she glanced over at the child goddess for an instant and then away to scan the room again. "I don't know how to explain it. But it almost feels like there are other oni here but Anji is out searching for more and I know I'm the only one here except for... well.. the only one. It's just confusing."Her eyes glanced around the room as she slowly turned in a full circle. She still did not understand it. She knew that there were others out there. Scarlet had some dolls with her. Thinking about the other oni, she frowned hoping she had found a safe place. "I just feel like.. there is someone here.... But anyhow... what are you doing?" Hagenti glanced at the little goddess curiously. She'd watched a human child once and wondered if godly children were similar. It was idle curiosity at best but something to do until she figured out what was bothering her. Una Daughter of Water Una sat calmly observing the Oni as Hagenti spoke, they were part of those that had come with the Fire goddess and the god that doesn't seem to be able to talk. Yaxha had said they were demons and she should be extra careful around them. Her eyes moved up to watch Hagenti's horn a moment she had always thought demons should have two horns but this one only had one so really she was more like a unicorn. Una was about to voice this thought when Hagenti asked her a direct question, quickly her current thoughts were dismissed and she smiled she liked it when the adults seemed interested in what she was doing. "I was talking to Mr. Peeps he is my very special friend and we were meeting our new friends. I found them and since they are new we had to discuss things so everyone could play together," Una opened up the cigar box and showed Hagenti the dolls inside proudly, "they are very talkative you see..." Una took one of the dools out of the box as she spoke, "this is Baird, he likes to read just like I do but he's shy about it so we can't tell everyone." Una spoke in a more serious tone at the last part, she knew secrets were very special. Una smiled and set Baird down on the bed decide her before looking into the box and then to Hagenti. Eftemie Hagenti's jaw dropped open, her eyes growing wide. Staring in disbelief that the child was playing with them as she was, the oni gazed at her incredulously. Did Una not know what she was playing with? Did she seriously think that she could hear them speaking? They might hear her but they could not talk.
"Do you know what those are? It's what I was feeling! Those are oni dolls and those particular ones belong to Scarlet! How did you get them? Where is Scarlet? She'd not just give them away or leave them behind! Is she in trouble? They are not toys! But carry the spirits of our race in them!" She shook her head, wanting to snatch them away. They were not toys. "None of them are broken are they? Breaking them kills them! You can't just play with them like that. Like they are just dolls... " Cinderfae Una didn't know what it was she had expected but Hagenti's response was not what she was expecting it was clear that Hagenti was not very good at playing. Pouting slightly Una picked the doll up and put it with the rest cradling them against her chest protectively. From across the room Yaxha looked up from where she was reading to Nixie in alarm, Theirn however motioned to his sister he was closer to Una and Hagenti. Standing up the werewolf made his way over to the bed and moved behind Una, picking the little girl up as he sat down he ended up with her in his lap his eyes ice blue eyes drifting to Hagenti as he does. Sniffling slightly Una cuddles against her protector a moment before speaking, "I wasn't hurting them, and I would never break any of my friends." Una nodded slightly looking to Hagenti. After a moment through all the angry talking Una realized that Hagenti meant an actual person named 'Scarlet' the little goddess looked down at the dolls thoughtfully and then looking to Hagenti with a somewhat more stubborn expression she replies, "I never met this Scarlet person but the dolls were just inside the downstairs, with no one around. It's good I found them then to take care of them."
Theirn listened quietly attempting to pick up on what was happening, after following the conversation a moment he realized that Una had come across some of the dolls that the demons had been collecting. It seemed that the little goddess had things in order so he stayed resting back letting the two talk, just watching over her as he didn't quite trust the demon. Eftemie Hagenti growled faintly. What was wrong with this child that she did not understand? "Scarlet wouldn't just leave them without knowing that one of us would find them. They are her children. But even if you don't know her, they are NOT toys. Each one of those is one of US. An ONI!" A spiteful glare was sent at the werewolf. Surely he would understand. Or were they all stupid here? The child was playing with demon... seeds. Surely he understood that.
"Do you understand what they will do when they hatch? The same thing all demons do unless summoned properly. And these have not been summoned at all!" Her words were meant to warn the stupid werewolf what was going to happen unless they were given back either to Scarlet or herself and Anji. Cinderfae Una looked down at the little dolls with a small smile, patting them very gently on the top of the heads, if they hatched she'd be like their Mommy. She would have to be extra careful with them and take good care of them, "I'll just have to take very very good care of them then, so we can really play when they grow up." Una nodded much like a proud Mommy. Theirn just barely kept himself from smirking before looking to Hagenti, "so they will become demons, how many have you collected?" The werewolf's eyes drifted over toward where the Oni had taken up residence and then back. "Your allowing the quiet Mystery God to help protect the other little Onis. Other deities would be able to protect them as well; Una, you'll take care of them won't you?"Una smiled looking up to Theirn he understood she would take very good care of them. Eftemie Her eyes narrowed at the werewolf. She did not like being played with. He'd get his at some point because she was quite certain at some point a werewolf would need help from a demon. Demons had long memories if nothing else. "I've a right to them. They are my people. But you really are a b*****d. Let's hope dogs like you don't breed because I'd be sure to stick a collar on one of your misbegotten pups and tie it in a kennel. I'd have a great time teaching it to play fetch."She turned her attention to Una, dismissing the werewolf entirely "If Scarlet returns, I suggest you make sure you return HER children to her if she wants them. Or maybe someone will someday steal your children from you. Then see how you like being played with."Hagenti dismissed them both. They were too stupid to waste her time on later. She'd have to more diligently protect those they had. Now even from those here. Hopefully, they'd be moving soon. Cinderfae Theirn let her wander off his eyes watching her as she moved away, he didn't care who's service she was in destroying the demon now might be the best course of action. Glancing down at the box that Una held he frowned slightly destroying the dolls now might be best as well. He'd best speak to his sister about it, "we should talk to Yaxha and talk to her about your new friends."Una frowned a bit and hugged the box protectively, she would let them go to their real Mommy...though if their real Mommy was like Hagenti she wasn't sure if she would count as a real Mommy as she would be mean. And mean Mommys shouldn't get babies at least in her mind. "She wasn't very nice at all...Una blinked her eyes wide at Theirn."Theirn smiled, "don't worry I'll protect you, plus she isn't that smart. She doesn't even understand how werewolves are made." Moving off the bed Theirn picked Una up and moved over toward Yaxha and Nixie. Eftemie Hagenti grumbled all the way back to the place where the boxes were. She protectively moved them behind her. Stupid werewolf. She had tried to warn them, but they knew it all. They'd get what they deserved and she'd help none of them. Why had she even bothered to tell them? Because they were Scarlet's children. That was the only reason she had.
"Stupid werewolf... I won't warn him again about nuthin. Gets what he deserves.."She didn't like being here anymore than they liked her there. But she had no choice. The bigger demons were destroying them wherever they found them and forcing all the rest into being slaves. It had not been that way on the otherside, but here with the more powerful ones having no masters, they could do as they liked. Turning to Taj had been all she could do to protect even a few of the children of those oni she had watched die. Moving further back into the shadows, Hagenti pulled the boxes closer to her. Protectively. And now she had to worry about a stupid werewolf and a bratty goddess taking them. Maybe Taj could do something to protect the ones she had. She'd have to ask when he returned. Something would have to be done. And she hoped that those children bit them both when they hatched. They deserved it.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
