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 Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:32 am
  What To Do Now
06.01.09 SoloA quiet moment to think was all he needed. Just some time to himself. The boy's birth had been hard on Bettina but they had both survived. He and Jaster had both been very silent when holding the child. His son. Their son. A son still to be named. Taj sighed as he stared outwards from the balcony. Still no sky. A rumor that Universe was gone. he wondered briefly about the worlds they had visited. Did they still exist? Was there even a portion of them left as there was only a portion left here? He had no way of knowing, but he wanted to know. To go there to see. But until things here were ensured, he could not travel. He even wondered if he had children before the fading. No memories were forthcoming, but so much of that was forgotten. Simply gone to ruin. *Jaster, what do you want to do?' he suddenly asked. No need to be cryptic at this moment. He and Jaster knew each other far too well. *I don't know, Taj. Name him I guess. It's not fair to leave it all on Bettina.**It's not.* he agreed. *Do you have a name in mind?"Silence. *Maybe.Then. *A name I once heard. I sounded like a fun name for a kid to have.*Taj knew as Jaster thought it. *Madrigal. Maddie for short.**He will need fun.**We will see he gets it. And Araven when he's in trouble and hiding secrets.*Jaster laughed. A soft echo of what his laughter once sounded like. *He will need protected. Zrath.**That will be taken care of.**Thank you.**He's my son too. He will have a father.*Silence reigned though it was filled with much emotion. More than any could see. Tears would have fallen and though the eyes were overbright, they did not. *Just take care of our boy, Taj. Love him as my father never loved me.* A strange feeling followed laced with some guilt. *Jaster, you are not your father.* Taj's voice was firm. *You have not abandoned him. You give him more than he can imagine.*Silence for a long moment followed. *I know. I really do. Just make sure he knows all the things that I could teach him.**We already love him and we will teach him. I'm going to see about rooms at the Pantheon too. This place is crumbling more every day and it's getting harder and harder to repair. It will be safer there.**It will be safer there, not just for Maddie, but for everyone else also. There are so few people left even if there are others on other worlds. We need to protect them.**I know. He can be left with Felista temporarily. When we move to the Pantheon.* he began as if it were a foregone conclusion that they would be. It was. *I will find someone to take care of him when I cannot be with him, but he will be with me.**Bettina?**She will have a room but I cannot chance his exposure to the dangers that come with a god's child. He does not have the powers that godly children have, Jaster. She may not like it but she will have to accept it.**A nanny at night then.**An aoidei most likely. And I will speak to Lord Harmodius today. With the changes wrought in such a short time, I imagine a word from Him and our rooms will be waiting.*He had thought about Creation's return and the changes Life had made to the Pantheon and surrounding grounds. There would be a door for him and any others who wished to shelter there. Freshening up and putting on clean clothing, Taj walked out of the door. Rooms were just the first step in rebuilding their lives and world.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:34 am
 On Bended Knee
07.17.09 Joint with IvynianEftemie ((This is a private rp for Eftemie and Ivynian. Please do not post unless given permission to do so.)) Taj strode into the Pantheon, glancing around him as he did so. Many people were still here, going about the things they felt necessary. It was not they who concerned him and it was with a cursory gaze he appraised them. The crowd had thinned though he was quite sure there were those who were demanding attention from Creation, now that He was back. He hoped they would let the god rest also. One could not work all the time and He had just returned. He watched from a distance for a long moment, just absorbing the fact that He was back. Jaster and Taj were both relieved. Harmodius was not the same god in appearance, but that mattered little to either of them. He felt the same when they watched Him. Harmodius and Destruction were the same no matter what anyone thought. Their paths and duties were simply different. At least that's how Taj thought of it. The Twin Crown could not be defined any other way, but that was only their point of view. Others would as always see it differently. Perhaps even the Twin Crown Himself understood something vastly different. But even more important was the continuation of what needed to be done. They had gathered all the pieces of Aristogeiton. The rest was out of their hands. Taj had no doubts that b***h Samyaza would return and they needed to prepare for it. But how became the question. And the few people and creatures that were left would need protected. If they were unsafe outside, then they would have to be brought within the Pantheon entirely. A god was only as strong as those that followed and believed. Harmodius drew his strength from not only them, but also all the gods, and that meant they would all have to shelter beneath the protection the Pantheon offered to keep Him strong until this was over. Taj would need rooms as would Karaskis. And Laughter since the goddess was outside the building as well. At the moment though all Taj could see was that his Lord had returned. Even Jaster felt the same and was enjoying the wondrous feeling that they had Him back. Kneeling down after approaching the foot of the stairs, Taj bowed his head reverently waiting on acknowledgment. It was not his way to interrupt whatever his Lord was doing, so he waited. This apology for their rudeness upon first meeting could only be given in silence and kneeling but neither he nor what was left of his host had any doubts they would be heard as they had been all along. And when he had been, then Taj would ask his questions so that he knew what was to be done to help. Ivynian  “A mind is not alone that has mysteries to wonder at. “ Creation was not, in fact, beset by supplicants or petitioners. The survivors, divine and otherwise, seemed all of like mind to Tajnevaki: shy, wary so as not to disturb others that certainly must have higher business. Approaches came peppered between pauses and long considerations at the edges of the room. This one was new to him, if not the other, written plainly with images of innocent dark that Destruction seemed to have some fond preference for appearing as. “I welcome your purposes, whatever they be, Enigma. Be at ease, and speak your part.” Eftemie He smiled faintly, nodding as he got to his feet. With pad and pen in hand, he neatly wrote, < An apology, Lord.> But he did not say whether it was for his silence or if that were the cause of it. Nor whether it was he or his host who still lingered behind his eyes from time to time.
You well. And You, Lord, hold all the mysteries. I merely observe. A trick of the hand at best. > His lips twitched in amusement that it was really all he could do. Dive in to understand compelled by who he was and then hide that he even knew. But then he thought of those under his care and became a bit more serious.
<Those outside this place are still under protection? Little remains. What needs done for what lives in light and remains hidden in dark? She will return.>
Holding the tablet out, he watched Creation's face, simply glad He was back. Even with the count of people that had returned from Baadris with Laughter, the numbers were small. With the worlds he had visited, those left behind would be fewer still in comparison to what once was. Samyaza was somewhere out of sight plotting still. But inspite of that, he was truly happy that Harmodius was returned.Ivynian Creation did not move to accept the tablet, but script flowed onto it regardless. The letters were thin formed, embellished with loop or curling flourishes from invisible pen. The gods must gather what they can of the remaining peoples, succor them. There are not many of you. Tired will be the labours, and often outside your native elements. But power of divinity is in each, and proof of that alone will come with the sudden stability of what places you walk. The gods are the body of what IS. It is in keeping with the protection the presence of the divine could offer during the reign of Destruction.
But to scatter wholly…that would be folly. The strategy of the Grigori is not so ignorant as to ignore so new, mortal-touched gods with no Knowing to go unchecked if they are alone.
Arms and armour should be gathered and then prepared. This will take time during which the hands of the gods should seek to aid the BoneKind. Be among them. Charity is a divine source , but discover the High Bloods and Ageless that survive who can draw on My body and encourage their mysticism to bring forth wonders of shelter and food as well. Mages and Priests of many kinds learned long ago some smaller forms of the symbols to work transmutation, or draw Form from ‘thin air’.
The Divine are the Feet that move and the Hands that help craft, the Hands that nurture. Eftemie  Taj read the words as they were scripted, a slight frown in his eyes. It was as he had suspected. To truly be protected, they needed to be brought in close and kept so. All those Laughter had with her and those that he and Fire had collected. They needed to prepare. He would have to think on that more. His guns might help but they were scarce. And it was not intelligent to grapple with the grigori or even to get close to them. He had understood such in that first glimpse of what happened to others. But perhaps there was something they could do to ready and even surprise the grigori by being prepared. None of his could afford to remain outside the Pantheon now. Additions could be made and fortified to shelter them but that could take more time than they had. He thought of the number of people with him. It would perhaps be tight but all his could remain in his room. The house they were in would soon crumble and it was only being held together with what tape and string they could find. A paper house did little good in rain or war. He nodded, writing again. Lord. The rare oil of the lotus will protect? At least resist? > There was something there but he was unsure as he contemplated its nature. A sword could be soaked in it as could armour, but if it were a waste, then time would be better spent in other ways to prepare. Ivynian "It is the direct essence of the Unvoid...the creative forces that are descended from this half of the duality, that combat best the thing We once were. I stepped forth, a beginning to order and form from utter chaos and formlessness, and begot from me further that spark of...Being. What can further Create. Things direct of my power and being, of Kishara, of Byrne....things of this nature...blood, tears, flesh, our direct hallowing to bless an thing by lending of power, " He shook his head, "Such things would be necessary for protection if it is the Grigori and the Void that you would keep at bay. The flowers are a symbol, but my direct power is not in them. They are mortal flowers, reminder images and little more. "
"For shelter look above...take the common stairs and in the hall you will find a door that feels right to you. The resonance will forge the imagery of it to be symbol of you to others who may search. "
"Us.....for us..." These words were spoken aloud as letters on the tablet ceased. Harmodius looked up at Mystery, eyes searching not his face or form, but deeper. "Lisana as well, and any others you would bring. A door for her and a third will lead to plain apartments for no gods but mortals. Such people may have want of space....families...the survivors hence come from Baadris and other reaches. If it pleases them, they may house there. The rooms will be plain, fitted to communities of five bedrooms about common circles that connect by halls. Simple furnished...but it should be enough for now. It will improve. " Eftemie He nodded thoughtfully after reading and listening to what Harmodius was saying. If they forged weapons and brought them to Him or one of the others, a blessing could do more. That was the answer he was looking for- a chance to keep harm from those he would protect. A smile crossed his face as he wrote. < You had the answers to the mysteries I found. I will safeguard them. Thank you, My Lord.>Bowing deeply, he felt the need to add one last thing to his tablet, based on the things he and Jaster had learned about Harmodius, Destruction, and even more in their travels and their own soul searching. You are here with us once more. We missed You and You will not be alone again.>
 Lisana glanced around the room noting Taj standing in front of their Lord. She smiled walking forwards to wait her turn. A human child moved closer, hesitant at first, but then reached out to pop one or two of the bubbles floating around. Giggling, she reached out again as Lisana turned to watch her. Teeth tugged her lower lip as she drew her hand back.
Winking the goddess laughed, and popped a sphere herself as Taj moved to the side bowing, having what he needed. Glancing at her, he nodded and then decided he would wait for her outside. The child laughed again as she gazed upwards watching the bubbles spiral away and then pop on their own. Moving forwards, Lisana nodded to Taj and then bowed to Harmodius.
"I hope this day finds you well, Lord." she stated, then smiled widely. "I wanted you to know your jester is here should you need me. Not quite as I was, but still a bad pun is always a bad pun and those I can still do. Sometimes." Her lips twitched upwards in even more amusement.Ivynian “What winds the body feels do not always pass the windows to the Heart. Not all waters find the paths of the Labyrinth to the center pool. The catalyst of wonder is often strongest in these chances. “
They are all Afraid. One act, one return, certainly not all saw the creature, but the name has become the closet bogey and shadow stalker of all their nightmares. Citizens of the past come to tear apart the future walls and leave them all bare. It is on all their lips. Made real, made near. Gentle opalescence had come forward in the flickering light. “I believe right now a mountain of wealth would be willingly traded for smiles and jokes, rhyming and punning. Mirth is short-handed in the face of relief, but it must follow soon or the spirits lifted-“
“fall.”Harmodius lifted his palm and blow over it as one might magic dust, but bubbles flowed out along the breath in a small storm and filled the fore of the hall, each bearing fish-eye pictures of castles or towns. Small, transient world images that floated along like fairy-tales painted on castle walls. Eftemie Taj stopped at the entrance, mulling over the things he had been told of. Crafting of weapons was the one foremost in his thoughts. It simply made sense to him that if Gaia's arm contained a portal, that it would be used against them in some way. Otherwise it would not have been taken nor escaped with. Perhaps others would know more of that than himself. Saljin was older than Jaster had been and perhaps he knew something of weapons and how to make them or even what was needed. As for conjuring, that would require something more than physical. Perhaps there were those within his own grouping that would be able to do something. The fairies and elves that resided beneath his protection would know something even if they were limited in use. He would simply have to check with Lisana and now was as good a time as any. He sat down to wait outside. A smile twitched upwards again as she watched Him closely for a moment. As the bubbles cascaded outwards, she laughed in delight, but then pretended to pout, eyes sparkling in amusement. "My Lord, I protest. I'm supposed to be entertaining You. Although... I doubt they will be bursting Your bubbles as mine quite often are."A giggle slipped free as she glanced around the room. Some had stopped to watch the bubbles in amazement, glimpsing scenes perhaps familiar to them. Memories of what they remembered might help them all. " And 'tis not wealth that matters to me. My host made me understand that with the treasures she kept aside and then gave me, Lord. Amusement is freely given to all."Ivynian “Then you shall be looked for in the moonlight, by the startlight, by the day, Sought in every corner, every stair and each hallway. Laughter, play and love must sprinkle springs and sources-seeds about. All will seek you by the minute til the ash is gotten out.“
This sing-song tones took on a children's cadence that seemed strange from the fuller, deeper reverberations of Creation's throat, however soft spoken he always was. The throne hall was made for acoustics and mean pageantry. Amused she watched Him for a long moment. Daring to reach out to touch His hand briefly, Lisana spoke again, her voice a bit more serious. "But do not forget to laugh, my Lord. You should not work all the time just as I cannot laugh happily all the time either. Sad laughs have their place and time also."Then her lips twitched whimsy once more in her eyes. "All work and no play makes my Lord a dull boy. And You should always be the life of every party."She smiled but then suddenly laughed at herself for getting distracted by the bubbles he had created. "In truth that was my purpose, though I seem to have gotten to my goal in a most roundabout way. I guess the straight path might be the shortest, but the least fun. Please put Yourself first occasionally, my Lord."Ivynian “In charity there is no excess, and love from my being must be the work of my hands. For a little while must the great strive that abideth in me, so all woe may be for even small whiles put aside and mirth remembered. “
'How else are these virtues to be remembered, or this divine strength, that measures not by duration but in alms of hope? That things of wondering fairness should come again to all places. Then...when this is done, then I can rest. Then I can laugh long and true to whatever colours my moods. Then closer to balance may be steps of tired feet. "
"No parent puts themselves above their child. Neither should they not look out for their own preservation, " he lifted his hand in acquiescence. " This I know. I will keep care. "
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:35 am
After having spoken to Harmodius, Taj waited outside for Lisana. It was then he saw her walking towards him. His gaze traveled the length of her, noting the long hair, scanty clothing, and four arms. Her long fingernails clicked together as she moved forwards staring at him. Silently they studied one another for a long moment, neither making a move to speak. Then she broke the silence between them. "Is this the Pantheon?" she finally asked. Her voice was softer than one would have thought. Taj simply nodded, watching her as her eyes traveled the length of the building before them. He was somewhat amused at the way she had simply appeared but then he noted others like her moving past. Reinforcements perhaps. Her gaze returned to his face and she stared in confusion. Was he the one? Her Lord? Strangely though he felt the same, he only looked slightly similar and even more confusion toppled down over her. But then her memory was hazy at best. One moment she was here and the previous she was... She hesitated. There was no memory of what she had been doing before seeing him now and this building. Confusion ran rampant before she got a chance to shove it aside. "My Lord? Are you.... Lord Tajnevaki? You seem.. but do not look quite the same." She had to ask or she would find nothing out. Taj shrugged, lips turning upwards, then bowed to her. His amusement was easily noted. She raised an eyebrow as her thoughts began to clear. "I thought so. My Lord, I am Siddhi and I serve you. I have been... well, I am not entirely certain, but I am here now. How may I serve you?"He nodded again, accepting what she had said. Siddhi was a word that meant protection if he remembered correctly. At least as best as he could remember. Taking out the tablet, he penned, The aoidei nodded, but then asked, "And where will I find this Saljin?"He pointed to the house not far away. " As you say, my Lord." she bowed before turning towards the house in the distance. She had found her lord and smiled as she walked forwards. A feeling of elation swept down over her as she stepped onto the porch, knocking at the door. When it opened and she was faced with a pair of deep violet eyes, all she could do was stare. She had never seen such color in an elven face. At least not that she could remember. "My Lord Tajnevaki instructed me to speak to Saljin. I am Siddhi, an aoidei and meant to serve him." She finally asked upon finding her voice after he stared at her in curiosity. Raising an eyebrow, the shifter nodded, folding his arms. "I'm Saljin. How may I help you?"She bowed again. "I was instructed to find Madrigal and protect him."Saljin blinked in surprise. "So he told you about him. Hmm.... Come in.""Is there something I should know of this Maddie?" She was confused again that she had missed something. Saljin stepped back into the house allowing her to enter. Siddhi frowned slightly again, her nails clicking together. It was a habit she had picked up whenever she was especially nervous or in a great deal of confusion. Following him down the hallway, she listened carefully as they climbed the stairs to an upper room at the end of a second hallway. "There are some open rooms here, so pick one for yourself." he began but she interrupted. "My Lord said all were moving." Her statement was matter of fact and Saljin blinked in surprise. "Then he must have found space for us there. Maddie is in here, Siddhi." He stopped his hand on the door. "Madrigal Araven is Taj's son. Some call him Maddie, some call him Araven. Lady Karaskis is the one that Taj loves though his host spent time with this young woman, Bettina. Madrigal is hers but she nearly died giving birth to him and is very ill at the moment. You are not a maid for her. Others will take care of her. Taj sent you for the boy, so he is your first responsibility no matter what others may want of you." Saljin knew that this was why Taj had sent the aoidei specifically for Maddie. He would not allow his son to be used against him. A faint smile appeared on her face. "I will do my best for my Lord and his son.""He is only a few days old. But he appears to be a happy child already." Saljin knocked on the door softly. Disturbing Bettina was the last thing he wanted to do. Felista opened the door, smiling to see Saljin. "Saljin." Her eyes touched on Siddhi, but she smiled a bit apprehensively. "Where is Kayan?" He asked as she glanced around the room. Only Madrigal was in the crib nearby, Bettina sleeping. "With Delphine. She was being rather active and I did not want to disturb Bet, so Delphine offered to watch her for me. She said she'd be by later to sit with my sister. I'm Felista. she replied, turning her attention from the shifter to Siddhi. She blinked then nodded at the exchange. There was much for her to learn. "I am Siddhi. Lord Taj sent me to watch over Madrigal.""I see. We could use some extra hands." Felista's lips twitched upwards. Saljin groaned as Siddhi laughed softly. "I bet she's never heard that one before, Felista.""Oh quit complaining." she smirked. "Maddie is asleep in the crib. I'll let you take care of him now."Siddhi nodded, moving towards the makeshift crib. With a smile, she watched him, several strands of long hair trailing over her shoulder as she gazed downwards. "He is beautiful."The infant lay sleeping a half smile on his face. Long thick lashes fluttered against his chubby cheeks as his eyelids moved slightly. Briefly she wondered what mysteries he dreamed of and smiled even more, longing to hold him already. Saljin and Felista watched in amusement. Maddie had conquered already.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:36 am
Talking To Laughter
05.07.09 Solo Taj walked back slowly to the house, his pace slower than his thoughts. He noted the places where green was peeking through to reveal itself. Stopping with a faint smile, he bent down to touch the plants with a bit of awe. Creation was definitely back and life was slowly returning. Now to keep it that way. He stared at the building they now lived in. It would not last much longer. Each day it became harder and harder to repair. It needed so much but it was little worth the effort they spent on it. Standing in the doorway, Taj listened to those around him. Delphine and Triq were in the kitchen, chattering about the food. Saljin was sitting with a book nearby, but Rasmus and Mirshu were dusting things off and actually trying not to drop parts of themselves instead. Tempest and the two felines were moving towards him from the farther part of the hallway. Tempest stopped in front of him with a frown. Something appeared to be bothering the god and the man scowled. It could not be good. "What is it, Taj?"Motioning Saljin, Rasmus, and Mirshu forwards to listen, he took pen in hand. All standing there read it and then stared at him in surprise. Saljin asked, "Moving back? Water's rooms?" Taj glanced at their faces and then continued. A warning was laced in even so few words. Tempest and Saljin glanced at each other and then nodded immediately. "We will get things ready." Taj turned but stopped. then he was out the door and down the street before either could do more than stare after him. He stopped at the door when he saw Hasheem, the man obviously the one in charge as he was giving orders. Taj simply waited trying to form the words he would need to explain to Lisana that she and hers needed to move from the inn they now lived in. Hasheem glanced over at him, bowing quickly. "My Lord, how may I help you?" He was not the one to usually greet visitors but as none of the others were around, he could do so. The Captain watched him a moment, then nodded, indicating he follow him into the building. Lisana was having tea and talking to Arabel about the lotuses and how best to help Rem. She glanced upwards, a sudden smile on her face at the intrusion. "Taj! You came to visit!" she laughed, getting to her feet and hugging him quickly. "Have some tea with us?"He shrugged but as Hasheem started to move away, he stopped him. Shaking his head negatively, he indicated the guard sit with them. An immediate frown on the Captain's face appeared as he did as he was bid. He watched Taj write for a moment. Hasheem's scowl intensified. "You mean it is not safe outside at all? For gods or mortals?" "We have a common enemy.> His face was entirely serious as Lisana, Arabel, and Hasheem paid close attention to what he wrote. The girl thought of the lotuses and moving them again. It would require much. "Are you sure, Taj?" Lisana asked softly. "It gets harder and harder to repair this place, Lady. If you have rooms there, then it could help." Hasheem contemplated what orders would need to be given. Lisana nodded as she got to her feet, pacing for a moment in thought. Turning, she said softly, "Alright, Taj. We will move into the Pantheon. How will I know which room is mine? And theirs?" He knew what Harmodius had indicated as a description of the rooms for the mortals. And he would find them. "Hasheem, get everything started. We can make a list of what we need to do. Will there be room for the lotuses?" she suddenly asked as she glanced at Arabel. Taj nodded, but shrugged. Lisana stared in surprise then laughed. She would have to figure this out herself it seemed. Getting to his feet, he turned towards Hasheem. Then he was gone out the door. His warning had been left and he had other things to think of. Taj moved back to the house where Saljin and the others were already packing what little they had. Some of the furniture and other things would be left behind, but their clothing, food, and more would be taken with them. He thought of the staff in his closet. Pretzel was still there and should not be left behind. Turning to Triq, he sent her to collect it. Once he had it in hand, he turned to Saljin. Before Saljin could stop him with questions, Mystery was once more out the door and down the street. His stride said he had things to do and little time to do so and his pace quickened as he climbed the stairs to the second floor. Now to find his room. Lisana sighed as she called for Rem, Sayd, Fashad, Arlecchino, and Jhyett. They needed to know so that everyone worked together. Hasheem was writing down the list of things to do as they figured them out. She would explain to the others and then give each a portion of the list they were responsible for with Hasheem overseeing them all to ensure it was done as needed. A few moments later, she moved towards the exit. Her room awaited.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:37 am
Moving down the hallway, Taj glanced at the various doors nearby. None looked like his door. A sudden grin sliced across his face. Would he even know what his door looked like anyhow? Probably not. But as he stepped along the hallway, a very plain door struck his attention. He knew this was the one. The next door was as plain also and he moved forwards towards it instead. Opening the second door, he glanced inside. From the description he guessed that this was the place for the mortals. It fit what Harmodius had told him, five bedrooms around a common room linked by a hallway to the next. They would find them suitable, he was sure. Turning back to the first door, he opened it. Nothing appeared inside and he frowned slightly as he thought about how he needed to shape it. An eyebrow raised as he knew he wanted a dark cavern. As he thought it, the space began to change into a large cavern, the ceiling high overhead. But then he turned back to the door again. It was very plain, looking like the door of a closet or attic or even basement. A sudden grin appeared once more as he focused on the setting. The first time someone opened his door, they would see a closet, an attic, or even the basement. All would have the proper things in place, mops and buckets, cobwebs, and shelves. Perhaps even boxes and old furniture. It would take a second time opening the door to find their way into his rooms, but in that first instant all would see what they expected to see of his room. With that done, he turned his attention back to the cavernous room itself. That is what it became as he glanced around. A large cave with high ceiling and darkness scattered here and there. Walls began to form, shape themselves as he thought of what he wanted to see. The floor was a dark marble, nearly indigo with silvery striations through it, just enough to give it some glitter. Some faint memory slipped down over him of small gardens around the edges, open bedrooms that led into the plants so that each room had access. Several small nooks filled with seats and couches for comfort as beds and other necessities shaped where needed. It all spiraled as it led into the center where bookcases were naturally cut into the walls. Some tomes were already there and he glanced at one or two before putting them back. A large library formed at the heart to give quiet and comfort to any seeking the knowledge that he had. A second set of stairs shaped in a corner and he obscured them from sight. It would be the way that linked to his own room. His and Kara's for she would be here with him. A large kitchen was set up for the meals with enough tables for guests and entertaining. Curtains hung across the large opening that led into a stone paved area complete with seating and tiered waterfall. There were a total of four such waterfalls, one in each corner of the cavernous room. Moving towards a space that still remained empty, Taj reached out adding in another room, one hidden from all but he. It would hold shelves of the oddities that he found knowing they needed protection or simply safeguarding from the use of those who would misunderstand or abuse them. When he was finished with this, he added in a stairway from the secret room down into a secret garden where only he would walk when he needed silence and to think. No others would have access to it. Several baths were added in scattered for the ease and comfort of those living with them. But as he looked over what he had done, he added in a second floor that rose upwards to nearly the top of the cavern. The shape fit perfectly as he walked up the newly formed stairs to the second portion of his secret room. More shelves lined the walls and spaces within it. The curving walls leading to an opening where a workshop curved towards yet another room, Taj's bedroom. The workspace included several long benchlike tables against the walls for whatever he wanted to do. Shelves for supplies were placed nearby so that he would not have to walk far to get the things he needed. It all connected to the secret room beneath to allow for access to the room he would keep oddities that he found and to the garden that would be theirs privately. His bedroom was large, spacious, and luxurious. A huge bed for comfort as well as a fireplace, nightstands, an area for bathing, and several large cushions on the floor for relaxing. The staircases themselves were entirely hidden from sight, the latter with a secret door laced into the front area for easy access to the second floor. A room at the side of his own for Araven, his son, with all the amenities that he suspected a child needed- toys, furniture, a space to play. A second room that descended from stairs allowed for a room for Siddhi for her own pleasure and quiet moments. Next to Madrigal's room, he added a room for Rhys, hoping it would suit the boy. Then a third room for Clotho so that if she wanted she would be near the boy. A secret doorway from the small hallway to his and Kara's bedroom would allow them to spend time as a family and he fully planned to include the boy as much as his own son. Rhys would, of course, want access to the workshop and he would allow him to do as he pleased there. So long as the boy remained out of the oddities unless he asked permission to look at them first. Then it would be supervised. Taj seemed to remember that not all were safe and he would have to ensure that they could not be accessed unless he were present. The ceiling over the entire second floor was open. It was as if the architect had simply forgotten the roof there. Taj wanted to look out over the cavern though the first floor rooms did have ceilings for privacy of guests and others. There was noone to look down into his or the other rooms but he wanted the space to fly should he be able to at some point. He had no doubts that he would and was indeed tempted to add a high landing to the top. Perhaps once he had his own temple such would happen. For now, two levels were enough. He recounted the rooms he had created within his area. Saljin would have his own room as would Puck. Siddhi was with Araven and taken care of. Rasmus, Mirshu, and Shyam, being all undead, would share one room. Kalfyra and Triq would have rooms near the secret entrance from the kitchen to their bedroom so that they could continue their duties. Chester would have a room where Rhys had easy access to him and the workshop. He frowned thoughtfully about Erzulie. She would want to guard. So he put her into a room that had access to the hidden staircase at the very front. And that also put her at the front of their rooms. When he was finished with the audience hall, a storage room, and ensured that the entire structure had access to the gardens surrounding it, Taj smiled. There were eleven rooms for guests or those others who needed to be with them. For some of Kara's people. Delphine, Felista, and Bettina would be in the mortal area. When Saljin and Delphine formalized their feelings for one another, then she would be moved into his room and they given more space. The oni would have a cavern at the back to themselves and the fairies would have their own grotto in a front corner. As he added the last of the secret doors and spaces, Taj stepped back towards the entrance. For now the space was as it should be and would accommodate all that needed to be. Now to tell them to hurry in the moving.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:38 am
After setting his room up, Taj returned to the house they had been living in. He also explained about the section for the mortals that Harmodius had provided. Moving inside for safety was truly their best option. Writing, Taj stated, < With me. > The immortal had gotten used to reading more in than was said. Taj meant in his rooms, not merely to remain at his side on the way there and now was no exception for her. "As you say, my Lord."Once back downstairs, the god moved through the halls to where the activity was. Siddhi had a bag in one hand, his son in two others and the fourth was actually free to open doors or do whatever needed. He smiled walking towards her to take the boy a moment. His eyes fondly watched the child before handing him back. Saljin approached causing Taj to smile. The shifter nodded, reaching out to caress his nephew's cheek before turning his attention back. "We are ready to start heading that way, Taj. It might take a couple trips to get everything and everyone there."He nodded, pad in hand. < A labyrinth. A hall of mortals. > Saljin frowned for a moment as he glanced at the words and back to Taj. "Two areas? One set yours and... " he hesitated. "a hall for everyone else? I see. I'll let you direct where everyone goes and just keep them moving then."Taj grinned, motioning for those read to follow him. Triq, Felista, Bettina, Delphine, and Siddhi all began moving with him towards their new residence. Each carried as much as they could leaving the rest to those still to follow. Bettina's face plainly revealed her unhappiness that Jaster was gone. But even more she was angry that Taj refused to let her have control over her own son. He might have Jaster's body but he had no right to their child or so she thought. Taj knew her opinion also. But Taj felt he owed Jaster this much. He would take care of the child and he would also see that Zrath was taken care of for Saljin. He would not fail two he loved for what they had given him. When they stood in front of the door to his room, Taj stopped, indicating that Siddhi and Triq enter. Triq excitedly began to babble to the other aoide about rooms and what she thought was inside. Pretzel had remained more silent since Taj had relegated him to the darkened room. It was not that he was thoughtful so much as wary to say the wrong thing and return to that state. The other three girls he led to the next door, opening it and indicating that they select rooms for themselves. Then he moved back to direct Rasmus and Mirshu who were carrying some of their things.
"How many rooms are there, Taj?" Delphine asked in curiousity as she glanced down the connecting hallways. He shrugged with a wide grin. He had no idea and had not looked beyond the first few. "I see." she laughed. "I guess we will find out later."Bettina looked into the first room and then turned to stare at Taj. "My son should be with me." Her voice was cold. Matter of fact. Taj shook his head, penning, < Araven is at risk. > "He's my son. Not yours, but Jaster's."Taj stared at her a moment, then turned his back on her. Walking out the door, he looked for Karaskis and the rest of those with them. He knew she would keep them moving. "Bettina, stop. Jaster told you to let Taj take care of Araven as he needed to. All you are doing is making everyone uncomfortable. This situation is hard enough. Take that room. I'm taking this one." Placing Trumani down on the bed, she looked around. It was simple but it was better than before and she sighed happily. "Araven is my son too." her sister snapped from the doorway.
"And Taj needs to make sure he is protected. You cannot expect..."
"I do expect." Bettina interrupted. "And I'm not going to stop."
Delphine said nothing as Felista gave her a sort of helpless nod. "I'm going to take this room on the other side of you, Felista. I'll be right here if you need help." Moving through the door to her own room, she sat down on the bed. The three akuti squeaked from her pockets. She frowned slightly. Taj would have to be asked about them. She did not want to coop them up in her room all the time. Moving down the hallway, she frowned to see all the doors staring back at her. Which one was his? He had not said. Just as she would have walked away, Saljin directed some towards the plain door with a few of the boxes they carried. She smiled as she walked towards him knowing which door was Mystery's. "Saljin, what about the akuti? I.. They should not be cooped up in my room all the time." she asked when he saw her waiting nearby.
"No, they should not." he agreed, then smiled. "Taj's room has some gardens around the edge. We could put them in there. I believe there is even grass and a waterfall or two. Some of the others he has found will be there also. I know he told Puck there would be a fairy grotto. Maybe in that corner. Let's see what we can figure out. You could still check on them each day and the rest of the creatures he puts in there. He'd not have given them to you otherwise."She laughed softly. "A garden inside his rooms. Well, I guess it works if that's what he wanted."Stepping inside, she followed Saljin to the right just under the archway. She could faintly hear the water already, but not see the waterfall yet. When they stepped further into the garden behind the small trees and shrubs that seemed to be thriving, Delphine gasped in delight. In front of her was a small building that looked as if it were just waiting for the fairies. It was and she could not wait to see how they adorned it. Taking the three small creatures from her pocket, she carefully set them gently on the ground. They glanced around startled but began nibbling at the grass hungrily.
"Well, I guess they like it." Saljin smirked. "At least they are filling their bellies fast enough."Giggling she nodded. "I'm glad they like it. It will make me feel better about leaving them here. I'll check on them each day and help Felista also. By the way, warn Taj, Bettina's not happy about being placed over with us and Maddie with Taj."Saljin nodded. "I'll tell him, but it will not matter. He'll protect the boy his way. When the rest of them are here, we will see about finding food they like also. I think there might be some insects scattered about for the lizards. Or even some fruit. I think.. this is an apple tree.""Well, I better go help Felista watch Kayan until we get some things moved around. Don't forget to tell Taj the akuti are here."
"I'm sure the fairies will look after them. I caught Mi'shala feeding Starshine pieces from my sandwich the other day. They will spoil them all.""Good. Someone needs to." she laughed as she turned away. "You mean besides you?" he asked following her outside. "I'll be around later when things calm down a bit.""I'll be around." she said, waving her hand, a slight flush to her face. He always affected her like that. Hopefully there would be more time for them when the moving was done. She just might have to pursue him a little instead of always waiting for him. Saljin and Taj went back and forth between the house and the Pantheon trying to keep things moving. Some were packing, some were shifting items, and others were checking to see what was useful and what was not as they moved from place to place. Finally when it got a bit more ordered, Taj stopped to help Siddhi with Madrigal. Even with four arms the aoide had her hands full setting up the room as well as taking care of the child. Taking the boy from her for awhile, Taj gave her a bit of respite even though she still folded cloths being used for diapers and the small bits of clothing the babe required. In the end Taj relaxed a bit taking time for his son. He was almost fascinated by the small feet and hands of the boy and silently contemplated what he hoped the future would bring for him. It was in these moments he felt closest to Jaster and more a part of him than he did otherwise. Even with moving, he still wanted time with those who meant the most. He hoped that the others were having as much enjoyment from the day as he was.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:38 am
 An Accounting
Solo 09.26.09Sitting down at the table in his room, Taj tried to think of just how many people were with him. And creatures since those would need to be counted also. Pulling out his tablet he began writing down the names of those who with with him. Hasheem and Fashad needed the names of those that would be living in the mortal hallways. It would help them with keeping everything under control. The first on the list were those in his rooms. Starting at the top, he listed his own and then stars beside those that were Kara's:
Madrigal
*Rhys
*Clotho
Siddhi
Then he moved to the first floor, listing both name and profession. At least he assumed it would be called that.
*Kalfyra - ?
Excentrique - aoide
Saljin - shifter
Puck - fairy
*Coby - pirate
*Keiran - pirate
*Simon - pirate
*Chester - engineer
Rasmus - aoide
Mirshu - aoide
*Shyam - aoide
After a thought or two, he decided to add the Oni also. Although he was unsure exactly how many oni there were, he knew that there were at least two boxes of the dolls that could hatch later. At least Hagenti and Anji thought so with their protectiveness. So he listed them also but made one notation.
Hagenti - oni
Anji - oni
Oni Dolls - 2 boxes of them - number unknown
The fairies with Puck were as hard. He remembered the ones that he had found that were not Puck's, but they had been welcomed by he and the others.
Mi'shala - fairy
Li'ena - fairy
Aly'strya - fairy
He tried to remember the faces of the others. And names. They were hidden from him and he grinned. One would think he'd be able to see. Finally shrugging, he just put down what he thought fit.
Puck's Fairies - Lots of them
The mortals in the other hallway needed to be considered also and he added them one by one.
Delphine - animal caretaker
Felista - ?
Kayan - Saljin's daughter
Bettina - ?
Tempest - Conjuror
He grinned slightly at Tempest's name. He still needed to tell the man he had magic and not the magic tricks he knew. There had been a group of humans also. Magicians and theatrical people that Tempest knew. But how many were there? Again he was unsure. He had simply pulled the people to him for protection without really looking to see who all of them were.
Magician troupe - possibly 12? Skills unknown...
Sighing, he wondered if that were even an accurate number. Maybe once this was entirely over, there would be time to actually take a census and tally what skills everyone had. Then the rebuilding could truly begin. Making a second listing on a separate page, he put only those on the list that were necessary for Hasheem. Then he thought about all the critters that would need food that were with him. They would find places in his gardens he was certain. So a third listing was begun beside the original listing of those with him.
Starshine - Akuti
Crouton - Akuti
Pez - Akuti
Yuri - Aiko
Moonshadow - Aiko
There were also oddities that he had found and he began to list them.
Arturos - demonhound
Sere - Stardust fox
Xerxces - Drake- a type of sylph?
Ataxis - Ares Draught
Pugnacious - Roan Gwipple
Mitsuku - Shinko
Shudder - plumeus pyrocaes
Zanzibar - spikeus hirsutei
Tribble - spikeus hirsutei
And then there was that strange floox type creature. Had he named it? He frowned for a moment, then shook his head. He had. It had a secret name because he'd not known what to do with it.
Krimsa - floox
And then there were the two lizards that spoke.
Sonnenebel - Eidesche
Griffe Bleue - Eidesche
Truvin - Errais
Truvin was the last name he placed on the list. He had not called her often, but he had her horn close by. It had been only a week since he'd seen her lurking around outside the Pantheon near the house they had previously lived in. Sooner or later she would be closer. For now she was safe enough and knew to remain nearby. He had no doubts that she would not leave. Taj had her warhorn. And lastly there was that strange orb he had found already in the room. It had a wolf that looked like the wind was in it. Very strange. But he was unsure what it was. For now it resided along with the jar of eyes and a few other things he had chanced upon in his traveling. There would be time for those things later. Leaving the list lay, he picked up the one for Hasheem. Now was as good a time as any to take the list to the man. He wanted to check with Puck and Tempest to see how many were there. Perhaps his numbers were not too far off.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:41 am
Eftemie Taj stared at Saljin as they discussed what he had learned from Harmodius. Well, not exactly discussed, Taj wrote, Saljin read and commented only to begin the cycle again. Mystery had to deliberately NOT write cryptically though each stroke of the pen made him want to. Now was not a time to take amusement in things he needed done. The shifter frowned. "Well, with Faran out of commission as an engineer, that only leaves Mycroft and they are trying to repair him. I wonder about the other engineer that was with Lady Karaskis. He might know a few things. I can have Tempest and the felines go see about gathering some metal. Whatever is left. So much has turned to rust-rubble that we might have trouble finding anything to use." He had thought alot about this. His woodcarving of small symbols and then perhaps charming them in some way with the gypsy magic. And something small would allow him to do them quickly, so long as he could find enough wood to make a few. His supplies were very low, but with everything becoming green again, perhaps he would find something more that would work though at the moment he hated to take a live tree to use, but a small branch here or there might be enough.
"What about Eddard? Eid I mean. He seemed to know things about weapons and such when he was with us. I mean, I never really thought about it until now, but he could very well know some of the things we need to know from Mycroft." Saljin shrugged. It was worth a try. Was there a god of forge? If so, he'd never met them. "He might understand at least how to make weapons and a bit of armour. It's worth a shot if we can find him."
Taj nodded, frowning slightly. He'd not seen the god since they returned. Was he at the Pantheon as they were? Or was he outside still? If outside, then Mystery needed to urge him inside.
Xanil Eddard and Myles could be found in the yard carrying on their training with wooden swords as usual. Though it was dangerous outside of the pantheon, Eddard did not like the confines and uniformity of fighting indoors. The walls and flat floors were not a proper training ground for any warrior he had aspirations to train. Still they never journeyed too far out full knowing of the threats that could be lurking, watching the area even now as they trained. Eddard was gaining a measure of pride in Myles. The boy had taken several great leaps as of late in his training. Eddard was particularly proud of the boy finding his own style, regardless of novice sloppiness, and adapting his maneuvers so. This hinted at his potential for no master of the sword fought in the exact form as the one who taught him but instead tweaked the teachings to better suit himself. Yet the boy needed to learn how to control his opponent with well placed strikes and feigns but unfortunately, Eddard was not the proper partner for him to practice this on. He would need an opponent of closer skill level. He would be ready soon, he hoped, to receive a true sword, of which Eddard hoped to create. They would continue this sparring exercise until it was time to break for their next meal, during which they would talk about the tenets of the knights code, another important part of Myles' training. Eftemie After checking around the Pantheon, Taj and Saljin knew that Eddard or Eid had a place to stay. But noone was there. One of those they passed in the hallway, after a short description, stated that they were sometimes outside training. Taj grinned. That was just what they were looking for. It meant he had been right and that Eid knew something about weaponry at least. Whatever they could do to help and whatever they could find to help shield everyone should an attack come, the better off they would all be. Moving in the direction that had been indicated, they soon heard the sounds of sparring. Taj listened closely for a moment as he and Saljin stopped. Then he nodded continuing onwards. When he spotted them, Mystery smiled, folding his arms. Saljin raised an eyebrow as they stopped to simply watch from the side. Perhaps they would be able to improve their own skills though they still practiced with the guns now and then just to keep their skill up with firearms. Xanil Within moments of Taj and Saljin's arrival, Eddard took note of them. He allowed Myles to take 3 more good strikes before ending the practice. When he was satisfied he broke the sparring saying, "Hold, Myles, we have quests." "Yes, Sir," the boy responded through panting lungs and taking a step back to come up into a stance of attention. "Well done," Eddard encouraged before addressing the two newcomers. "Greetings Lord Tajnevaki, Master Saljin," welcoming them both and bowing to each individually. "You remember my apprentice, Myles," he tacked on as he indicated to the boy who broke his stance of attention to bow deeply to both and welcome them as well before returning to his prior stance. "What brings you two out to the yard this day?" Eddard inquired. He knew without the sky, day and night were nonexistent except in the hearts of those who hoped to see them once more. Still, being a rigid sort and under the influence of Eid, he kept to a cycle as if the sky were still present. After all, just as the seasons swore to follow each other, so too did the sun and moon, day and night, promise to follow one another. They would soon need an expanse to continue the conduction of their age old oaths. OOC: not sure how the lack of sky is affecting the setting, does that last paragraph make sense or am I reaching past my bounds? Eftemie ((OOC::It looks good to me. I really haven't mentioned it alot in mine but with them outside and sparring and such, it makes sense. )) Taj and Saljin bowed, but Taj grinned widely as he did so to both Myles and Eddard. Then he pulled out the pen and tablet he always carried. He explained about both he and Jaster, then wrote a bit more telling Eid where he was staying. It was a slight riddle but he was sure that Eddard and perhaps even Eid would enjoy it. His wings moved a bit as his tail twitched behind him.
Then he glanced to Saljin after holding the pad out to Eddard, nodding. He and the shifter had discussed this in detail and Saljin needed to be his voice for the moment.
"Lord Mystery no longer has a voice, but I will explain as best I can." he stated, then thought for a moment. "Eddard and Lord Eid, we thought that perhaps you would know of a way to create weapons and a bit of armour. Much has decayed except for a few minor things we have found or kept though much is rusted or broken. The grigori are sure to return even though Lord Harmodius is back to us. We do need to prepare a way to fight them at a distance as well as prepare for closeness should it become necessary. Taj spoke to Lord Creation and it would be best that all prepare, not only in that fashion but in other ways." After a moment, Saljin asked, "Taj would like to know if you would be interested in helping us with this matter?" That was the crux of the matter and though slightly long winded, Saljin had finally gotten to the point. Taj still planned to carve and let them be used for charms should they find proper symbols, but weapons would still be needed. As well as more explanations when they could sit down to discuss and plan what truly needed to be done. Xanil Eddard threw the command over his shoulder to Myles, "Work on your thrusts, Myles, strikes 2, 7, and 13. Default into defensive postures 3 and 1." As Myles began the exercises, Eddard stepped closer to the two to speak less formally. He scratched his chin whish his right hand while cradling his elbow with the other and mulling the proposition over for a moment nefore responding. "I would be happy to help, but on what scale are we talking about? I have a small forge setup in my room complete with hearth and anvil but it is not the proper place for production on a massive level. If its Stockpiling your aiming for, We'll probably need a larger facility, at least for the recycling of the broken or otherwise useless weapons and other metal things." He stopped to allow Tajnevaki absorb this information. All hearths in all of their various conceptions have had one thing in common, Eid suggested. Fire agreed to aid forge at one time, perhaps Karaskis will choose to aid us in the absence of forge, even if she doesn't remember doing it.Eddard kept this bit of information to himself for the time being, understanding that Eid's proclamation was more of a logical jump to possible past events more than honest recollection. Eftemie Taj shrugged. He was unsure how much they would need. He glanced over at Eddard and Saljin frowning slightly.
"I don't think we are sure, Eddard. There are people with Lisana, the goddess of laughter, who already have the weapons and armour they brought with them from Baadris. So some will not need it unless something needs some work to it. I'm not even entirely certain how many of them would know about forging or crafting armour. Others were brought back by Cosine with Lisana and the other two gods who went with them." The shifter explained. "I don't think we need a huge forge to begin, but I don't think a small personal size forge will be enough. Something that three to six people could comfortably work around. If we can get Mycroft repaired properly, then we will have ideas that even we have not thought of and at that point we might need something larger."Mystery nodded. That was what he had been thinking. It was not like they needed some huge building or anything, just something that they could work around with a few people to get things moving. Then if they needed a larger one, they could do so. Those gifted with magic will be searched for. But will perhaps take time. This can be begun now.>Xanil Eddard nodded, relieved that a large foundry would not have to be built. Such an endeavor would take months to make. Eddard contemplated the proposed parameters. A small 6 man set up would likely need 4 anvils and a large forge not to mention tools for each smith. Four could pound out weapons and armor while 2 fluttered about, maintaining the forge and the other necessities used in the craft. With that number they could churn out a number of weapons depending on the quality and the skill of the fellow smiths. If only Forge were present to lend aid, then things would go much more smoothly and the deliverables would also likely be of finer quality. "We will need volunteers, preferably lead by a stone mason to gather properly sized stones suitable for the crafting of a good sized forge. We will also need a fair supply of wrought iron at least for the production of the anvils so a mining speculator will be needed. I myself have a small supply of iron but will now have to use it for crafting other sets of tools for my fellow smiths unless they have their own. We will also need a covered area preferably without walls as a smithy can get quite hot. How many locals or people from baadris do you think fit this description?" Eftemie Taj shook his head, having no clue what they would find. Whether any would be gifted or have to simply be taught. Saljin frowned slightly. "I think we will have to ask them and Lisana. She lives within the pantheon now as do the mortals. Lord Creation allowed a door for them and her. As we have. We could meet there later so that you have time to finish your training."His wings flexed back slightly as he brushed the hair from his face. Nodding in agreement, he added, ((I'm sending an email, Xanil with a listing of the people that Lisana and Taj have. I think that's the only way we can figure out who.)) Xanil Eddard nodded, "We train everyday to better ourselves at best and to prevent our skills from growing stagnant at the least. If we must conclude our training early it is of little matter if you'd like to do this sooner rather than later. On another note, if Mycroft is repaired, I'm certain we can proceed without the stone mason or the speculator for surely the computer is sophisticated enough to lead both those tasks alone. In the event that neither options exist, we'll manage, it will just take more time. We will see what fate has in store for us." Eftemie Taj nodded, then wrote. He wondered briefly what the door to Laughter would be like but was sure it was to be some sort of fun. Waiting on Eid to conclude his practice with the boy whom Saljin was watching intently. He had taught Jaster what few skills he had with a blade. Enough to keep him alive. A daily practice would be interesting with the shifter or even Lisana's guards. A time or two he had caught a small glimpse of their spars. He liked the guns though. Saljin glanced over at Taj and Eid. "I can help out some with testing the blades and keeping the forge going. My father taught me enough of that long ago before the curse on me. It's been 100 years but I think I could still remember some of it." A grin sliced across his face as he shrugged in amusement. "I can't do any worse than Jaster did when I taught him." He smirked at the god who raised an eyebrow in slight annoyance as the images dropped down on him. *He's right. I was horrible in the beginning.* Faint but still there. Taj laughed inwardly, then frowned. *I am unclear what I used before the fading.**It doesn't matter, Taj. Learn now what you can.*Xanil At Saljin's last comment, Eddard grunted in amusement. "I'm sure you'll be fine. You and Myles both will likely be the ones keeping the forge heated. With a bit of luck, hopefully we will find some able-bodied men. Let's agree to meet after lunch at Lisana's door. Hopefully we won't have any trouble gaining admittance to her apartment nor any afterwards." When they had agreed on a suitable time, exchanged farewells, and parted, Eddard and Myles returned to their sparring. Lunch came and went, the two sharing a meat sandwhich with one another. Once finished, Eddard sent Myles to their apartment so that he could prepare his personal forge for the evening when it would be time to begin the construction of the smith's tools that they would need later. In the meantime, Eddard returned to the Pantheon as well, in order to me Tajnevaki and Saljin at Lisana's door.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:42 am
Riddles & Puns
08.17.09 Joint with Xanil Taj moved down the hallway, Saljin walking beside him. He had no clue what Laughter's door would look like, but he suspected it would be something fun. Something that would make them laugh. Or not. But she would. The shifter glanced at all the doors as they began walking around the second floor. "Shall we knock on them all, Taj?" He sighed, wondering how much that would annoy others. They did not want that to happen. Mystery shrugged, a bit of amusement in his expression. That was one way of dealing with it. He noted Water's door, hesitating a moment. The way it looked reflected the god within. He was certain that Laughter's door would be much the same so he continued walking down the hallway. Lisana's DoorWhen he saw it, Taj grinned widely. He snapped his fingers to get Saljin's attention, The shifter was looking at doors further back. A smile slipped over Saljin's face when he saw and then he began to laugh. "We should have known. Bubbles." Shaking his head, he studied the doorknob for a moment. 0"Creepy little doorknocker though. I wonder why it's only half there." Taj raised an eyebrow folding his arms. He'd already noted some movement in the knocker as a faint glow appeared around it. The eye moved upwards to stare at them both. "Because doors need both a way in and a way out." Saljin blinked glancing over at Taj and then around behind them. "Who....?" Taj snorted then indicated the door. The doorknob itself had spoken. Xanil Eddard came up the stairs to the apartment level of the Pantheon. Looking down the hall it was easy to find Tajnevaki and Saljin as they both stood together before a door. Waving, he walked up to both, each having a perplexed upon their faces. He took note but said nothing in regards to their expression. Noticing the odd door and its half knocker, Eddard found the ends of his mouth curling a little. Though he had not seen a door such as this before, it seemed to be akin to something torn right out of the Dreaming or the Kingdom of Concordia, Court of the Seelie fey. Eddard was suddenly rushed with a swarm of memories from his late teens and early twenties. Memories of the Pooka, Trevisan, his mentor, Barlo, and even High King David filled his head, almost drawing him into his past. Eddard's goal oriented nature kicked in quickly, honed by years of knightly service. Now was not the time to reminisce for they had a goal to attain, one of possible importance if luck was on their side. "I take it this is Lisana's door. Have you knocked already?" he asked. Eftemie Taj glanced over at Eid, a huge grin on his face as Saljin simply stared at it. The shifter wondered if he had heard right.
"We were attempting to, but..." Saljin began.
"Knocking will NOT get you inside." the creature smirked again, the knob twitching on his nose. Or rather it was his nose. "Only a riddle will. I am Mr. Harry Whodunit and I take the riddles. If worthy enough, you will find the door open. If not, then you will have to try harder. Three of you. Three riddles."Taj glanced at Eddard and Saljin. He shrugged indicating that they try. Xanil Eddard thought back to his earlier days. The Kithain, especially Pooka, had always been fond of games, especially riddles. So too had the Fey. He had heard, even solved many in his time, but today none came to mind . What is easily given, yet you must keep. If you do not, my fury you will reap, Eid sent Eddard inwardly. It has been one of my oldest proverbs and my pact with all who would enter into an oath. Perhaps it will suffice in this situation.We will see, Eddard responded, a bit dismayed by Eid's darker side. "What is easily given, yet you must keep. If you do not, my fury you will reap," he offered the door as his riddle. Eftemie "Hmmm.... I suppose it will do, Lord Oath." Harry replied cantankerously. His eye rolled around to stare at Saljin and his knocker nose tapped slightly as if he were tapping his foot impatiently. "I guess it's my turn." He thought back to the riddles he knew and asked, "For some I go fast, for others I am slow. To most, I am an obsession." Saljin stated then added, "If you can't answer that one..."Harry immediately interrupted moodily. "I never said I was answering the riddles. Only asking for them. Hmpft... It works." Dismissing the shifter, he turned to stare at Taj who was simply grinning widely. His lips twitched upwards as he wrote Holding it up, Taj waited, extremely amused. Harry's nose began tapping again. "Get that thing out of my face. I can't read. State it clearly. What fool trick is this?"Taj blinked in surprise turning to stare at his companions a moment. Turning back to Harry, he drew a finger to his throat indicating he had no voice.
"Well, that's your problem, isn't it? I'm still needing a riddle." Harry smirked as he waited. "I've not got all day here."Taj's eyes narrowed in a bit of annoyance as he continued to stare at the creature. Then he simply pointed at himself. Afterall, he was the Cardinal Conundrum and a riddle to himself as well as others. A wicked laugh slipped into the air. "You may enter, Lord Mystery." Then the doorknob grunted as if pushing something heavy and the door opened.
"So.. where is your other half?" Saljin asked as he watched Harry a moment more. A growl slipped outwards. "Why does everyone always ask me that? I might be all there was when I was created..." Harry continued to mumble and growl about being asked such questions constantly. Saljin shook his head, quickly stepping inside. Taj grinned even wider as he walked past as the shifter mumbled. "Remind me never to ask questions like that again." Xanil Eddard followed the two in, nodding a silent thanks to Harry. Harry would just have to learn that most mortals, ever influenced by the mundane and logic, would likely always ask such a question no matter how magical they were. That things were not as straight forward for them as they were for constructs and other enchanted inanimate objects. Eddard learned that from the Gifted Loriss, a living chimerical staff that brought other inanimate objects to life, giving them the ability to communicate freely at least while in the radius of the staff's power. Looking around the room, Eddard tried to identify Laughter. He had yet to meet her and knew little of the host and god both. If the resident was anything like the exterior of the door, he was indeed in for a treat. Eftemie The white marble of the floor and walls glittered as the silver, turquoisey blue, and violet gleamed in places. The cascade of white curtains instead of doors made it all look clean and light. Airy like the gentle laughter that resided within. A visiting area to the right just inside the door was comfortably arranged with blue and violet striped chairs, a light oak and violet table, with various plants scattered around at various angles. The soft sound of a waterfall echoed from one corner as bubbles of rose from the center of a fountain. But for all the various areas that seemed to be within, it was obvious that this was really one large room that had been partitioned off with the long white draperies. Jhyett glanced upwards as the door opened, jumping to her feet as she pulled uncomfortably at the dress Lisana now insisted she wear. "Mrow! We have visitors! Lady Lisana!" she said, moving towards the largest area of fabric. Movement was heard behind it as were the sound of low voices. A moment later Lisana walked from between the curtains, a smile on her face as the bubbles cascaded around her. "Jhyett, bring us some tea please. Lord Mystery, it is good to see you again. And who is this you've brought to see me? Please have a seat." She indicated the visitors area where Jhyett had been sitting.
"Yes, my Lady." the feline aoidei replied moving towards the small area to the right of them. It contained a small makeshift kitchen that was suitable for light meals and tea.  Lisana listened carefully after a slight giggle at the kiss to her hand. A faint frown suddenly appeared on her face. "You speak of metal weaponry, but that is not exactly what they used. I mean... wait a moment. I'll get Hasheem for you."Getting to her feet, Lisana glanced out into the hallway. The man was standing outside talking to Fashad. She smiled, calling out to him thankful that she did not have to track him down, "Hasheem, would you come in here please?" Without waiting for a reply, she returned to them with the man a few steps behind. Bowing to all, he asked, "My Lady?"
"May they see your weapon?" she asked, then introduced. "This is Hasheem. He's the captain of my personal guards."He glanced at them in surprise but then pulled his weapon free of its sheath. The glass blade glowed shimmered in the light, but glowed faintly for other reasons. "Our blades are glass and enchanted. This particular one was hammered out while the spells were laced upon it to give it strength to prevent breaking."Taj frowned for a moment. Enchantments? So there were magic users amongst them. That could solve some of the problem of conjuring. Making a mental note to ask, he wrote, The Captain frowned a moment. It took him some time to remember what he had seen as his own sword was made. "A smelter of some sort to liquify the sand. An iron rod to pick up a bundle of the glass while still red hot. An anvil to shape it on, but also a blast oven to keep it hot as the enchantments are laced into it. At least that is how the best blades were made. Cheaper versions had the glass poured into molds, and then the enchantment was laced over it. They were not nearly as strong as this one is."Saljin nodded. "It sounds similar to the way metal blades are made except for the blast oven. So who else knows this and would be of use to us?"Xanil Eddard nodded, interested. Sand would be infinitely easier to gather, but to what end was glass better than steel? Assuming that at the very least the laced enchantment made the glass as durable as steel, the only true advantage over steel would be that it could likely be made sharper and that its edge would likely never dull. It was probably lighter to boot, but it was common knowledge that the heavier the weapon, the more readily its momentum carried through multiple opponents. Additionally, the moral implications were there. Eddard's knightly training taught him that a sword needed to be heavy so that one was constantly reminded of the weight their actions held, particularly the taking of another person's life, and that additionally the maintenance of one's sword would also be a similar reminder. An extremely light sword that seldom, if ever, dulled would not have that attached meaning, though he knew this perspective was not shared across most cultures and wouldn't dream of verbally making that suggestion for fear of offending the people of Baadris. Another thing popped into his mind. How many enchantments could one place on said blade? If the magic incantations or spells were only limited to one enchantment per blade, then hypothetically they could make both glass and steel blades. Glass ones would be made in the normal fashion and could be wielded more readily by the untrained, the weak, or merely by preference as is likely the case with the people of Baadris. The steel on the other hand, if its sharpness could be some how made more keen, then heavier arms like great axe, claymore, and lance would be all the more devastating, especially against people who wear full armor whether it be made of steel or some other material. All he could assume is that eventually other people would be showing up as more mortals rally to the pantheon and that they needed to be prepared for them as well. "I'm sure we will be able to make both glass and steel arms in the same facility, that does not concern me. Your method of enchantment has particularly peaked my interest. As Saljin inquired, is there any among you who can help in this enchantment process? I have many questions to ask them." Eftemie Lisana thought back carefully over those within her care. "Uncle Joe might be able to help with building. He is my host's uncle and owned his own construction business before everything changed. He might have knowledge you need."Hasheem frowned thoughtfully as he thought of those he knew. "Those within Lady Lisana's care that could help would be Fashad, the guards I command but only need three or four of them since I would like to have the others to patrol still, Adbul and Yafir. They could all easily help with the forging and keeping the smelter going. But for enchanting... my father perhaps. I'm not certain what strength his spells would have now. He has not used them for many years because his power was waning, but he might still be able to help with the spells if another can cast them." Taj held out his tablet with a list of names written there. Saljin read over the list. "They would be able to enchant I think. Tempest? Are you sure, Taj?"Mystery simply grinned in reply. It was not something that Tempest understood yet, but he had more magic than he knew and would be able to conjure also. He just had to understand yet. Hasheem continued, "If we can find others who know the enchantments necessary, then it is possible we could use them to strengthen the blades and keep them sharper. Lady Cosine has some people from Baadris with her also. A priestess who could possibly know what we need. Metal was scarce for us and most expensive. The glass blades served as well though after a time they would be replaced with the old ones being remelted and reshaped."Xanil Eddard nodded at Lisana's suggestion of her host's uncle, Joe, "Perhaps he can be our foreman. If you could talk to him for us, all we really need is a shelter with out walls which shouldn't be difficult for a man of his skill level if I'm understanding you correctly." He then turned to hear what the others had to say. "Hasheem, could you have Fashad, Abdul, and Yafir gather up able bodied volunteers? We probably need to start salvaging and gathering materials, for the shelter at the very least, especially if this Joe agrees to help us. I will help with that too and hope we can start that process in the morning, tomorrow. Also, if you could follow up with your father and discern his capabilities, that would help move the process along. In the meantime, we probably need to pay a visit to Lady Cosine and also check on this list of names Tajnevaki has provided of possible enchanters." He addressed Saljin and Tajnevaki, "Does that sound alright with you two? I assume the list of enchanters are of people who aren't currently in the care of Lisana. Just a guess though, I could be wrong." He turned to look about the area, noting the people and trying to keep a mental count of possible working assets. Eftemie Lisana nodded, turning to Jhyett as she placed the tray of tea on the table. "Would you ask Joe to come see me when he gets a chance?""Of course, my Lady. the feline purred and pounced out the door. Jerry muttered behind her. She'd not even waited for him to open the door at all. Such actions were going to make him obsolete and he planned to talk to her when she returned. The Captain nodded as Lisana poured a cup for each one there. "Of course, my Lord. I will send them out to look for volunteers for the forge and a second group for the gathering. Have you thought about where to put the things once we have them? And as for my father," His voice got soft trying to think of the best way to get his father to agree. "I will speak to him when we are finished here."Saljin glanced over at Taj. He had never met Cosine. It could take some time to find her. Mystery listened quietly as he drank the tea offered to him. The shifter nodded explaining further. "Anji and Hagenti are oni that we protected during the demon attacks. They serve Taj now. Tempest is human and we will have to find a way to pull his magic out since Taj says he has it. As for the other four on the list, they are fairies. Puck served Oberon, but he and others have been trapped here. There are some elves with him that may possibly have some skill in that area. We can make a list of the types of magic each has and see what they can do on trying to enchant the blades we make whether glass or metal."Hasheem nodded, adding, "We could prepare and then regroup, but Lady Cosine is known to us. She is now moving her people to the Pantheon. At least attempting to find a place here for them." Hasheem frowned as he calculated what needed done. Saljin glanced at Taj. "Then she will be looking for you to find the rooms the mortals were given."Mystery nodded, glancing over at Eddard. Xanil Eddard nodded. It seemed everything was coming together nicely, so long as they remained organized and were also able to meet up with Cosine. He turned to Hasheem to answer the first inquiry, "Ideally, I would like it to be outside of the Pantheon, but relatively close. Your people can't stay cooped up in here forever and will eventually need to move out of necessity. Though the smithy might not be the most publicly used of places, it is still going to be equipped to make the weapons of your culture, maintaining what I believe to be one of your traditions. That being said, it is a step towards independent living. Once the smithy is made, who knows what the next building will be, but most assuredly it should establish a trend, whether among your people or any other surving peoples that might rally to the Pantheon. Therefore, I would like it to be close enough to defend, but a comfortable distance away in an area free from the ruins of the preexisting city. They are a skeleton of what was and in this time, it is important to focus on what will be. Naturally, once we determine where the smithy will be built we will want to gather the materials in that location as to avoid having to move them around twice." Eddard then turned to Saljin, responding to his suggestion. "It is a good idea, but may not need to be done right away since it is likely that their numerous methods of enchantment vary from that of the Baadrites," he quirked a brow towards Hasheem, hoping the adjective used for his people wasn't offensive. "Since we are planning on going out of our way a small bit to craft weapons of glass in their fashion, let us focus more on trying to preserve the full method and finding someone that Hasheem's father can pass his knowledge to. In the event that that fails and we can't find anyone else from Baadris here or among Cosine's lot or we find ourselves with more refugees of other cultures then we will most definitely need to pull all of our resources." Turning back to Hasheem he continued, "It looks like things could get very full here at the Pantheon, all the more reason for us to get this project underway. The faster we can complete the smithy, the faster we can begin to focus on other aspects, gradually forming a township." He wasn't sure if the people from Baadris wanted to move out of the Pantheon, but Eddard felt that leaving them in here for a prolonged period of time would breed negativity such as depression for the people wouldn't have anything to work for making their lives stagnant as they sat and waited. Surely this project to whatever degree it is executed would boost morale and allow them to make a home for themselves that they could eventually move into as opposed to being protected guests and stuck withing the confines of the Pantheon. Eddard regarded Lisana for a moment, curious to see how she would react to the somewhat lofty proposals. Surely she wanted what was best for her wards, but all the same, she was the protector of them and had the final say. Eftemie Jhyett bounced down the hallway to find Joe. She tugged at the collar of the dress she was wearing. It was uncomfortable, but she pushed aside her feelings when she saw him talking to Fashad. "Joe, Lisana wants to see you." she interrupted with a smile. He glanced over at her nodding. "Fashad, I'll talk to you later. What does she want?" he asked turning his attention to the feline girl.
"Someone needs something built." she giggled, walking back with him. "I don't know but it sounded important."
"I see. I could build something I suppose." His reply was laced with amusement, his blue eyes sparkling. Letting her enter first, Joe followed her over to those with Lisana. Two were gods. He was quite certain. They bore the signs of such, one with wings even.
"Lisana, you asked for me?" he said, bowing to the grouping.
"Joe, this is Tajnevaki, god of Mystery, Eddard host to Eid or Oath, and Saljin. They need some help from you."
"If I can be of service. What is it that you need?" he replied immediately. Taj studied the man a moment. His black hair was grayed around the temples, but the blue eyes were vibrant still. He could see that Lisana liked him and that he cared for her from their expressions. He nodded to Eddard to explain since they would be building it together.
"Lady, I'm going to go speak to Fashad and get them started searching for some of the things we need. Then I will go speak to my father about the enchanting."
"Go. I'll see about getting more from Cosine. I'm sure she has those who will want to help with this. Perhaps even those who can enchant what we need." the goddess replied. She would have to go see Cosine in the next day or so. Excusing himself, Hasheem moved quickly down the hallway towards Fashad. He would have to find Abdul and Yafir afterwards. They were nowhere to be seen, but he knew they had other duties. Xanil Eddard nodded to Joe and shook his hand, always glad to meet a man familiar with the fruits of manual labor. "As Lisana said, I am Eddard. It is good to meet you, Joe. We have the mind to arm the Baadrites so that they might be able to protect themselves from the grigori, any minions they might throw our way, and any other possible foes that might threaten their well being. In order to do this, we need a suitable structure." Eddard continued, his enthusiasm for the project growing, especially in the presence of an able builder, as he and Joe bounced possible parameters off of each other that would make the shelter most suitable for its function. When they were done discussing the structure's details, the conversation turned toward location. "We'll be gathering materials over the next couple of days so we ought to find a suitable location to build so that we can marshal them close to the site. Unless Lisana and Cosine would like to keep them particularly close I would like the smithy to be a fair distance from the Pantheon. That way its close enough to defend yet not so close to be dragged into any sort of confrontation the Pantheon might have to endure. I also imagine that constructing one building might start a trend and that other buildings might spring up around it so the area needs to be suitable should it take off into a broodling township. How much time do you think you'll need to write up plans or are you able orchestrate this with out them? The structure isn't terribly complex after all. I will help you in any way that you see fit, I am at your disposal." Eftemie Joe pursed his lips for a moment. "It should not take more than a couple days to get the floor plan laid out. That will give them time to get the ground leveled and building supplies there. A strong roof and stable beams are really all we need. The higher the roof, the better actually since it will let the heat move on and keep as much off those working there as possible."A moment of hesitation before he continued. "I have some tools if they are still there. I brought my toolbox into Efte's loft when I moved there. Also about 6 large iron bars. They are about 3 or 4 inches in diameter. But it might be enough to get a few other things started or even an anvil made. When the demons attacked, we were a bit unprepared. It was a warehouse once if anything is left of it."
"I think so long as they are within a distance that lets them get to the Pantheon for safety, it would not hurt to go to the forge." Lisana added. "And I'm sure that they can get the tools if they are still there, Joe. Add the tools and bars to the list with directions so that Abdul and Yafir know where they are going. There may be other things there we can use. The only problem I see is the kiln. A dome shaped kiln will work the best but I'm not sure we will be able to find something that will work for it."Taj nodded writing on his pad. < Conjuring and enchantments call me though Life creates the strongest to battle. > He grinned widely bowing to the grouping. Tempest needed his attention as did the oni. He hoped that Eid understood that the best and most protective weapons would need to be blessed by those such as Harmodius, Gaia, and Byrne, each with a power of life. Saljin raised an eyebrow. "I will look for you once you have found a spot for the forge and see that those things we find make it there."Xanil Eddard stroked his chin, liking how things were coming together. "I'm certain that your tools have survived any damage wreaked by the demon onslaught. I imagine your tool box was large and substantial, capable of taking a beating. If in the event that it is not salvageable I have some iron in my apartment and can forge some replacements, at least for the simple tools if you need me too, at my private forge. Most assuredly, I can definitely make us some nails and spikes if we are unable to find any." "As far as the kiln is concerned," he said, addressing Lisana, "If a solution for it does not present itself from salvaging the wreckage, then we will just have to build one. I'm not too familiar with glass blowing or other methods of crafting glass items, but I've seen other do it in both dome shaped kilns and also in large iron boxes similar to a furnace. If we cannot recreate the implements used in the exact process of creating these weapons naturally we will recreate the process to the implements that we will have. Such is the nature of our dilemma." At Salnjin's statement, he turned to the group, "Unless there is other things that we need to plan on, shall we adjourn and instigate our current plans and then reconvene when we are ready for the next phase of our goals?" He wasn't sure if the meeting was quite done but they already had much on their plate and he wanted to get to work as soon as possible. Still, it would be best to make sure they had addressed everything, especially any of Lisana's concerns for the Baadrites. Eftemie "I will have Hasheem look for them then. It will save us some time making a new set. I'll get some men started on leveling the spot as soon as I find one not too far away. I was thinking that perhaps the walls of a building might serve as protection on one side, just in case they need to run for cover for some reason." Joe nodded, making a mental list until he could find pen and pad. He bowed moving towards the door to look for the Captain. They needed to talk. Lisana thought for a long moment. "Perhaps if most are not out more than a certain number of hours. A regular schedule, it will limit the chance that something will happen. At least until we know what is going to happen. We don't want to put all our eggs into one basket." she giggled lightly. "And I'm sure you will figure something out for the kiln and forge. I certainly have no knowledge of such. The most I can do is throw a celebration when it is finished." She definitely had no head for such things. All she remembered was Joe and her father working together while she watched. Not her father. Eftemie's father. Taj nodded. They were started which was what he had wanted to get done. He wrote quickly, < I go to look for magic now. > He bowed to Lisana and Eddard knowing that this was perhaps best left in other more capable hands. He would, of course, watch and learn, but there were other things for him to do. 
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:43 am
Confessions and some Catching Up...
Joint w/ Cinderfae
09.25.09 Cinderfae  Karaskis moved along the corridor, she needed to get her people moved into the pantheon which she had her mind set on doing today. Before she set off to the audience chamber she moved to the stairs; she knew Mystery had his own rooms within the Pantheon now the two had appeared to cross paths on their way to meet with Creation. The tide that seemed to happen after the ceremony had pulled them apart as well except for a few meetings. Moving down the hall her eyes shifted from one side to the next she was confident that once she laid eyes upon Taj's doors that she would know it. Before she went to meet with Harmodius she wanted to hear of things in the Pantheon which she was hoping Mystery could aid her with. But really that was only one of three reasons the other was quite simply that she missed him greatly. The third was...she suspected something was going on, not that she felt Taj would keep things from her but they hadn't been apart for any length of time since their hosts had come back from space together. She recognized Kaelin's door...which she hadn't seen the Water God for sometime and wondered idly where or what he was up to. After a few more steps she stopped, and looked to her right. To the right there was a plain closet door, frowning some she watched it for a moment before stepping over; she had known Taj for long enough to expect the unexpected. Opening the closet door she frowned looking inside to see...a closet. You should ask directions and stop jumping at closets...
There was something about it...if you look the door looks normal but it is just slightly out of place.On impulse more then anything Karaskis moved over and opened the door again, Cinder was cut off on some comment as the door now opened up into a large cavern. "I think we found the place..."Stepping into the room she shifted her gaze over the area with some curiousity hoping she can find someone to direct her to which way to go. Eftemie Rasmus glanced over at the door as it opened. He knew this one. Lady Karaskis. His lord had said to expect her. Bowing, he tried not to lose any body parts as he once more stood upright. "My Lady, Lord Taj has been expecting you. He said to show you to the room where he is. This way please." The aoide indicated the wall directly ahead of them, stepping slightly through it. "He said to show you the quick way, my Lady." Ahead of them was yet another wall but yet a staircase that led upwards was hidden within. Taj was helping Siddhi arrange things for Madrigal. He needed to speak to Karaskis but they had been so apart lately. Each going in opposite directions, but telling her of his son weighed heavily on his mind. Hopefully he would have a chance to find her and let her know of the rooms. Both theirs and the mortal hallways. Placing the baby in the makeshift crib, he began moving some furniture around to give the aoide more room. "My Lord, I think we will be comfortable here. It will keep him close to you as well as safer." Her approval was not usually freely given but in this case it was very evident. She had grown to love Madrigal already and Taj was the lord she had always served. This was home to her now. Mystery nodded, moving towards his own room. A secret doorway between the two allowed him easy access to his son. And the hidden staircases would allow him to come and go without going through the labyrinth of hallways and rooms. He had to have some secrets. Cinderfae Karaskis paused noting the Aoide, it seemed that Mystery was expecting her. Her brow lifted some looking over to the hidden staircase; a faint smile came to her lips it seemed she was right there were many secrets hidden. Hopefully he doesn't make you find your own ways around the halls.I'm not particularly worried about it.Leaving her inner monologue herself she followed behind Rasmus up the twining stairs, through what she was pretty sure was another hidden hall and then up a few more stairs. Easy to get lost to say the least. They found their way into yet another small hall but this time instead of finding another hidden staircase there was a door. Rasmus slid the door open easily enough, inside was what she was guessing was Taj's room. Stepping inside Karaskis smiled noting him within, "Hello there, hm, quite a bit of work you have done here already."Eftemie Turning with a sudden grin, he moved towards her, kissing her firmly. But then he did not want to let her go and kissed her again. The second time with a faint smirk on his face. They had both been too busy recently. Shrugging at the thought of the work, he pulled her towards the bed to sit. They had much to discuss. Not the least of which was his son in the next room. he wrote first. But then a faint frown crossed his face at the thought of Madrigal and Bettina. Not so much the babe as his mother. Taj's patience was wearing a bit thin in the case of the mother. For a long moment he hesitated wanting to just enjoy this time with her but Maddie waited. There was nothing to do but tell her. Taj then added, Then he watched her face closely to see how she would take this. His face easily showed his displeasure at the girl. He tried to read her expression but knew this was alot to take in. Much had happened and there was still more to tell. Cinderfae She returned the kisses chuckling slightly before pulling back, moving to sit next to him Karaskis leaned against his shoulder lightly so she could more easily read his tablet. At the first she nodded, "I think I'd like that, sharing rooms instead of having seperate ones...with the nature of these areas could be made if I needed them." A bit of a smile came to her face. Karaskis blinked in surprise reading the note, looking up at Taj she attempted to gauge his reaction before chuckling slightly. Murmuring some as she does, "two children that neither of our hosts expected...and now left to us. I think in a way it was meant to be...these children will be, special to say the least."She was about to ask about the mother when he wrote the next part her voice held a hint of concern as she spoke, "I think I should meet her...she sounds like quite the handful." She reacted almost instinctively at the news, to have gotten that sort of reaction out of Taj she was guessing that the woman could be more then a bit of trouble if she put her mind to it. A slight smile came to her face reading of the room for Rhys, "I think he'll like it greatly...Clotho I think should room among the mortals, she'll be very useful as...extra security for them if nothing else. Since the ceremony she seems to have become rather understanding...almost devote." She didn't doubt that the Draconian could hold her own against any mortal foes that may cause trouble...or mortals housed there that wanted to make trouble. Karaskis paused a moment considering commenting more on how they would house people when thoughts of the rooms for the mortals brought her mind to something new, "speaking of mortals...I have taken a few stragglers of sorts in." Shifting some she looked to Taj more directly, "they were from the pirate ship that Faran came from...survivors from the battle. They are pretty loss...one is suffering from a sickness from lack of stabilizers. I don't believe they are a threat of course, or I wouldn't have accepted them - but I do have Erzulie keeping an eye on them...and confiscated their weapons."Eftemie He kissed her fingers lightly a moment. He frowned thoughtfully. < At some point, Saljin and I must deal with his past also. I promised Jaster I would protect him and should Zrath have survived, I will have to put an end to his threat. That is the other reason I want the children protected. Saljin will remain here with us for now. Rasmus, Mirshu, Siddhi, and Triq will all be here also. Siddhi will see to Araven entirely other than myself and she has unique qualifications to deal with such. Four arms will help.> His lips twitched as he penned the next portion. He raised an eyebrow at the thought of pirates, but he trusted her judgement. She would not have taken them if there was not something there worthy. Taj had known there was trouble with him but uncertain how to help. His face split into a wide grin. There was more yet to tell. Much more. Cinderfae She smiled and nodded slightly, "I think I'd like that...I hope you don't mind a few fires, candles...maybe some open braziers in areas to provide light. Some nice fireplaces...and I want a garden of red, yellow, blue, and orange flowers." The rooms should become larger as they had need, "well, as I bring my mortals in I'll expand the hall. More are under my protection then I first realized." Karaskis' face turned to more then a bit concerned listening, "You believe then that she wishes Madrigal with her so she can use him as a bargaining chip with you? I'm only asking...because I could understand a mother wishing to care for her child." She gave his hand a gentle squeeze as she asked, she hadn't been there for his interaction with the mortal so she wanted to be sure she fully understood, she wasn't being distrustful of his choice. Her brow wrinkled some thoughtfully, "and I don't believe I know who Zrath is...if he is a threat I will of course aid you in what must be done. Hm, though I would like to hear the story of him sometime."Nodding slightly in agreement on his assessment of Rhys she paused thoughtfully, "he hasn't really known much of anything...and to gain his freedom what he had to do has left him shadowed."When Taj meantioned the stabalizers Karaskis almost rolled her eyes, "she's an exotic...which means she has used large amounts of technology to alter her body. Give her faster reflexes, claws...her skin isn't it's natural color but rather a dark indigo," a slight smirk came across her face, "with silvered leopard spots." Cinder's opinion on exotics bled through as Karaskis explained, "most of them are basically really interesting looking body guards. Though from what I have gathered from Cinder this one has more stable alterations...so a fix of some kind would be nice, but it shouldn't outright kill her. Which for now...might be safer until I know we can trust her; exotics can be pretty formidable in battle."Shifting slightly to look up at Taj Karaskis paused thoughtfully, "I believe I could help with that..." a bit of a smile curled on her lips, "but I have a feeling that is only the beginning...what's the rest of it?"Eftemie he agreed. < Zrath.... he is the one who cursed Saljin over a century ago. The curse was incomplete due to Saljin's father which is the only reason Saljin is with me now. He survived by casting magical incantations over his body. His wizards are much the same and nothing to mess with. They are as capable with staves as they are magic. Jaster and Saljin barely got away from them when they returned here. If the Labyrinth survived and I imagine some portion of it did, then he may well have. I will have to go there to deal with him at some point, but for now we simply must watch. They bear the curses similar to Saljin's on them so we will know them. And they will know him. It is why I keep him close. > < And yes I think she would. If it had been simply wanting to keep him close to her, I would have left him there and moved her here. But it is not. I will not cater to her. > He scowled at the thought of Bettina. < I do not know what she expected of Jaster, but he would not have done any differently than I am. > Shrugging, he grinned at the thought of more. There was much more. < Lord Harmodius said to find those who can conjure from air. We need to find those who can create water and food.. shelter from nothing. As for the weapons, I do not know what weapon was mine before the fading or even if it survived. Would yours have? Perhaps I should have asked, but I was not thinking of myself so much as the mortals defending as they can. He wrote this... > Pulling from his pad a page he had kept close, Taj handed her what had been written that day between he and Creation. The words indicated the conjuring but also spoke of protection from the void. < The forging has begun, but without enchantments, the glass blades will shatter. Hasheem's father was one such enchanter and he has said he will try though his skill is far from what it once was and those spells were merely to strengthen the glass to the aspect of metal and prevent breaking. As for the metal blades, they have begun forging those and arrows also, but without some sort of aid, they are simple mortal blades and I think of little use against the grigori. We need something further.> Again it came back to some of Lisana's people and Taj began, < Some of those of Numbers and Laughter come from Baadris. A priestess and more. They may have magic we do not suspect. Another is Tempest. I have already broached the subject with him. He does not believe in himself enough yet. But he will. His sleight of hand will be far more than a parlor trick when his true strength is revealed. > Cinderfae With a slight nod Karaskis considered the new information on Zrath, "I think I will come with you then when you go to take care of him...or at least go to find if he has survived. But that of course will need to wait for a little."Karaskis frowned some, it seemed Bettina was attempting to use the child as leverage to make herself more important to Taj. "I do agree that I should meet her...though I suspect the meeting will not go very well." "The glass blades sound interesting to say the least, I'd be interested in learning of the magic they are using as well. Magic as well as weapons will help keep them safer." A slight frown came to her face, "as for the something further when it comes to the blades according to what you showed me we need something of creation to harm them...Byrne is still an egg. Has anyone spoke to Hunt lately? If I remember correctly I heard that his hounds harmed the Grigori...he might be suitable to help imbue the blades. And...Gaia has been scarce as well but perhaps something could be gotten from her. And then Harmodius, with more then one essence it maybe more potent like the vaccine that we took." Her mind ran on some as she considered the possibility. "I could ask Harmodius for something to aid with the weapons...and about my weapon. I was planning to seek audience even if I don't have to worry about asking for rooms now."Eftemie < I would imagine we will need the help with Zrath. He's over a century old and Saljin is strong but if that curse is finished, he will never be able to get free of the man again. It's in the binding and it's not breakable that he knows of. He is the only one who has ever escaped. And it is what has made him immortal. I suspect that's the real reason the man wants him back. He wants that power. > His eyes narrowed slightly. Taj just did not trust the girl. Jaster had said it was simply one night. He could see telling him about it but the demands she had expected were plainly in her face. And it was nothing he would give. A sudden thought occurred to him. < Ask of both our weapons. He might know if mine has survived or not. Even Lisana's though I would think she would have some sort of jester's rod that is more toy than weapon.> The last was said in amusement. Then he mentioned something he had not since it was said to she and Lisana some time ago. But Tempest brought the thought back. < And one other thing, what I said about Tempest to you both, his path changed my own, but I would have it no other way, love.> Cinderfae Nodding slightly Karaskis considered his words some, if mortals were left that were not under the protection of the pantheon it would unfortunately be ones like this Zrath. "When you go to do this, were you planning to leave Saljin someplace where he can be protected? With the curse started I'd fear that Zrath would somehow find a way to use the curse to make him a liability." It sounded as if Bettina had taken the one night stand and was attempting to force Jaster and now Taj into something more permanent, "perhaps when I'm back from seeking audience with creation. I'll have my Aoidei and Ashe help with getting everyone comfortable."At the question of her people Karaskis paused in thought, "Perhaps Simon...and Jadà." She paused a long moment before suggesting Simon, " Simon came in with the pirates, he apparently was headed off to be a savant when he was picked up by slavers. From what I understand he was picked up by the pirates and later became more of a crew member. Out of the three he's also the one I'd trust the most...Jadà and Chester seem fine with him, which says a lot.""I will ask him of the weapons and see if he has any insight." Looking up to Taj she smiled gently and pulled her legs up curling them under her. Moving some she leans over and wraps her arms around just enjoying the embrace a moment before answering, "I do not worry over things of the past. There are many paths we could have all taken...and mine I found with you. Which I would not change either." The shifting in her voice settled some as she stated the last. Eftemie Taj was uncertain what else to do. Until they knew if Zrath survived, waiting was all there was. He nearly said that it was too bad Bettina was not like her sister. But he refrained. He suddenly grinned. His arms around her, Taj grinned, pushing the pad aside. For a moment all he did was hold her and kiss her. Then with a sigh he picked up the pad. It was important to Taj for Rhys to know he was welcome with them. Just as he wanted Madrigal to feel. Cinderfae Karaskis nodded slightly in agreement, "So waiting then, I'll keep an eye out for anything happening along those lines.""Well I think Sandra's mother, Rachel might be more then happy to help with the babies. She's an older lady...her husband didn't survive and well helping with little ones will help take her mind off of things and give her a bit more purpose." Grinning a bit she looked over to Taj, "she's already motivating some of the stragglers and salvaging fabrics to make quilts and other such things.""I think you should meet Simon and the rest of those that came in recently...I'd like your take on it." She chuckled softly and nodded at the sentiment, it would be strange if everyone that met the man called him Hasheem's father. She was content to let him hold her for a few moments but when he wrote his next suggestion she smiled, "I was hoping you'd ask, and I'll take a look at Rhys room...we can always adjust things if there is something he feels he needs and that isn't provided." As Mystery pulled her along past the hidden wall she searched the area curious to see the child. Eftemie Leading her into the small room next door, he indicated Siddhi through the next open doorway. The aoide was holding Madrigal as well as feeding him and folding the things she needed to take care of him. So many arms made her exactly the rigtht one to play nursemaid. She glanced up at their entrance, bowing slightly. "My Lord. My Lady."Taj wrote out, Siddhi nodded, with a smile. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Karaskis. Your son will be just through that doorway. Lord Tajnevaki has indicated that I should see that he has what he finds necessary. These two rooms each have their own bathing rooms." She indicated the second doorway off the small room. Taking the baby from her for a moment as she handed him over, Taj smiled faintly as he wiped his son's mouth off. The baby was nearly asleep, green eyes barely peeking out. The red hair was obviously Jaster's as were the eyes. Turning to Karaskis, he questioned whether she would want to hold him or not with an amused smile. Cinderfae Smiling some she nodded to the aoide, Mystery had been right her multiple arms were coming in handy. She didn't dwell long upon Siddhi though her eyes moving curiously to the child she cared for. A slight smile came to her face seeing the babe, standing back some she watched the interaction between the three - mystery she realized was treating the child as if he were his instead of that of his host. A slight smile curled to her lips, he and Jaster were really one, still split some between herself and Cinder a slight thrill at that ran through the part of her that still identified itself as the pilot.
"It's nice to meet you as well Siddhi, hm, well I will be sure that Rhys meets with you later so he knows what to expect. I think all of this will come as more then a little surprising." She wondered some how Rhys would adjust once things settled down. He hadn't had anything near a normal life before...then again this was hardly normal. Karaskis paused a moment before looking to Taj and moving over to take Madrigal from him, smiling she reached out and touched the babies nose lightly, "hello there...I'm Karaskis," chuckling slightly she realized she didn't really know what to say to children. "I'm sure Rhys and the rest are already working on getting things together...we should go and escort them here."Eftemie Siddhi smiled nodding as Taj gave a few instructions to the aoide. It was obvious that the god was going to be very protective of the boy and wanted him even if the circumstances were not of his doing. She would have to do her utmost to keep him safe for the god. Turning back to the goddess after a few moments, she indicated that she would take the boy. Once he was back in her arms, she rocked him gently for a moment before putting him into the crib that Taj had created for the boy. Of burnished wood, the rocking cradle sat so that she could move it with one free arm while she did other things. It would be easier to keep him napping on fussy days. Taj was certain that Rhys would like the idea of having a younger brother as well as being part of a family. The rest Kara could bunk as she wished them to be. Either here or in the mortal area. Cinderfae Karaskis kissed the child forehead lightly before handing him back to the aoide, it was on impulse ... the child was very much Jaster's; even if Karaskis had not been intent on helping with the child, Cinder would have been. "He is very lovely," chuckling slightly she moved over toward Taj, "I think Rhys will take to him rather well."
Her eyes went over the crib, smiling slightly Karaskis turned her gaze up to Taj, "I recognize your work there as well." Shifting some she moved over pushing the door of Rhys room open, "I can't really gauge since he isn't here, but the room looks nice...and well if needed we can always alter.""Well lets go gather everyone, I'm not sure who will want to go where and I don't really know the layout," chuckling she stepped up to take Taj's hand in hers. "Though the only thing I can think of off the top of my head, is I hope there is a way to the mortal's wing with no stairs. I'm not sure Rachel will be able to make it."Eftemie Taj wrote as he watched his son a moment. Then with a smile, he turned away, but not before adding, < Of course it's a piece I made. What else would he sleep in? > He led her back down the stairs indicating the various hidden stairways. She should know and he wanted her to. Just because they were hidden from others did not mean she was included. But as they reached the outer hall standing in front of his room, he moved towards the doorway next to his and then past it to point at the brightly colored one made of what looked like huge glass bubbles. < Lisana. > A faint grin was seen as if they should have expected it. Then he turned back to the door they had passed between his and Lisana's. < The Mortal Hall. > Opening the door, he stepped just inside so she could see the layout. A central common room with five rooms lay before them. A hallway on the opposite side led into the next common room where five more rooms were placed. Again there was yet another hallway that seemed to go on endlessly. Delphine and some of the others were already moving in. People from Baadris- Lisana's- as well were beginning to look at the various areas and bring their few belongings in. They should be sufficiently protected here sandwiched with the gods themselves. < And we will see that Rachel has help should she need it. Someone can carry her up here if necessary. > Cinderfae As they walked Karaskis took time to take note of the various hidden passages, "I'm going to have to add a few touches of my own once I get time." Afterall as these would be her quarters as well she wanted some of her element within them. With a slight nod she followed and waited to be shown where the door to the hall of mortals was. A bit of a smile came to her lips as she saw Lisana's door; it after all made sense for laughter to have such a place. "Well, I believe there are several among our people that could carry her without much trouble. She doesn't appear to weight very much," following along with Taj her eyes went over the other mortals moving about the rooms, "I'm not sure how she'll take it though," a slight smile came to Karaskis' face, "hm, I'll suggest someone with a bit of charisma for the job." Chuckling softly she moved from the mortals rooms and started toward the stairs, "Are there any areas we could keep the three pirates I found? I want to keep them somewhere that they can be watched...I'm hoping they work out but I still have a bit of caution in mind."Eftemie < Put them in one of the extra rooms in our rooms or put them here with a guard who isn't a guard. > He grinned slightly at his suggestion. It might work. Put them where they thought they were free but still have them under guard. < Ashe. For Rachel. He should be able to sweettalk her. > It was written in amusement though he was entirely seriously. Taj turned towards the doorway behind them. Saljin would be helping so he'd know where to help put the others since Delphine and some of the others were already here. The god did not want to run into Bettina this moment so he wrote, < Let's go find Rhys and Clotho and direct them to their rooms. The others can be directed here as we see them. Saljin already knows to end up last to make sure that everything is taken and noone is left behind. Pretzel is hidden in my rooms for now. > Cinderfae Nodding slightly Karaskis let him lead for moment as they walked, considering the possibilities. "Erzulie..." a slight grin came to her face, "Shyam." The aoide had the form of a zombie and he was more then a little creepy, Karaskis suspected he had more then a few violent tenancies. "Plus considering his state I think harming him would be difficult." Sighing slightly she added another thought, "plus having them close would be good...if Keira has some sort of reaction to the lack of stabalizers we'll hopefully be close by to offer relief. Really though I think her body will either adjust or...I'm going to have to track down science and ask her to have a look.""I'll let Ashe know before we start moving out, so he knows what he's suppose to do," with a slight nod she moved up the stairs to the house, that had seen much better days that their people were still staying in. "Rhys' room is to the back of the bottom floor; we should at least find him there." Karaskis then started weaving through the room where people were preparing to mobilize. As Karaskis moved closer to the room she noted Clotho was there as well, "seems we got lucky..." with a slight frown she shook her head, "Clotho can't go to the mortal rooms as a peacekeeper - I'll assign that to Ashe as well." Gesturing ahead Karaskis looked over to Taj, "she's the closest friend he has...and should be close to us."Eftemie Taj nodded, listening as they walked. He was happy that the people seemed to be moving so quickly. They needed to get where it was safe since none knew when or if the grigori would return. The more protection the better and the Pantheon would do that and not merely from the elements. Letting Karaskis take the lead through the house once they had reached it, he looked around for Saljin. The shifter was directing some to ensure that the supplies made it. When their eyes met, he motioned for him to talk.
"Taj, we have everything well underway. It should not take much longer. It appears that Lisana is moving hers also. I was talking to Hasheem this morning and he said they had already started. Lisana created a fountain in her rooms for the lotus." the shifter explained updating the god on what they had been doing. It was slow but things were moving. He nodded at Kara's words. < Ashe would work well there. Lookout ladies though. > He smiled faintly since it was already known to him what Excentrique and some of the others thought about Ashe. He'd heard enough comments when passing through the kitchen since Ashe had joined them. < As for Clotho, there is a room next to Rhys that lies in emptiness. That way they will be together with Maddie and Siddhi. >
"A word of warning, Taj. Bettina was fuming that Maddie is with you at the heart of your rooms. Felista tried to calm her down but she's not listening to her sister much. I'll try to head her off if I can." Saljin shook his head sadly. " I just don't know what has gotten into that girl. She was nothing like this when we met."Mystery reached out to squeeze his friend's shoulder, then wrote, < Loss does not change all for the better. > But he never said whether it was Jaster, the child, or both that the girl had lost. Cinderfae Speaking somewhat more softly Karaskis moved to where Saljin and Taj could both hear her, "perhaps speak to Hasheem and see if Ashe and he can be coordinated so if there is problems within the mortal wing they'll be able to put an end to it, together."Frowning thoughtfully Karaskis looked over the area, "I'll go catch Rhys and Clotho ina moment, I want to find Ashe first..." it didn't take her long to pinpoint where the voice of the fire elemental was coming from. Pausing the goddess smirked slightly watching Ashe help a few of the mortals with their things, all the while teasing and flirting those that would accept it without upset. Waiting a few moments for him to clear what he was helping with Karaskis cleared her throat to get his attention. Turning Ashe lowered his head into a bow looking to Karaskis, "Mistress." Wih a slight smile Karaskis moved up and started giving Ashe instructions gesturing over toward Rachel Miller as she does, she also gave him the message about the pirates to convey to Shyam. Karaskis watched as Ashe moved over toward Sandra and Rachel Miller before turning back to Taj and Saljin. "I got a few of the messages passed around," glancing over to Saljin a moment she added, "the pirates won't be staying with the other mortals; I wanted them somewhere closer so an eye could be kept on them. If you need any help with Bettina..." Karaskis just tilted her head slightly toward Ashe while looking to Saljin. "Hm, now we should go see to my child," there was a touch of unfamiliarity as she said 'my' it took the goddess' acceptance for her host to acknowledge Rhys more fully as her own. Nearing the door Karaskis smiled and knocked on the frame, "Rhys? Clotho? ...how are you two doing in here?" Pushing the door open Karaskis looked over the two, Rhys was folding some last bits of clothing and Clotho was standing nearby, the two seemed to be talking about the ceremony and the change in the world once Harmonious appeared. Eftemie Saljin nodded. "I'll talk to Hasheem when I get a chance. I was watching his guards the other day. They are pretty good and I think they'd be able to handle pretty much anything that happens there. And I'll keep that in mind for Bet. Felista is not happy with her behavior."Taj nodded. He trusted Saljin to keep an eye on the girl or have Felista and Delphine do it. < We can put the pirates in the rooms near the kitchen. That way they are at the back of the area and any movement on their part will be noticed. Just keep the rest moving.>The shifter nodded. "I'll see that those rooms are kept open and they are moved that direction for now. Puck and I should be nearby that way. And we can have some of the oni patrol at night and keep an eye on things. Triq has chosen a room near the kitchen since she'll be helping cook. I put Kalfyra near there also. And Erzulie I put beside the secret staircase so she would be nearby. I'll do my best, Taj. They are all actually looking forwards to this in their own ways."Saljin moved away after the final nod from Taj who followed Karaskis to see Clotho and Rhys. He smiled faintly watching them. Everyone would be so much safer at the pantheon. And both boys would have more of a family than they would have otherwise. Cinderfae Karaskis chuckled some looking over at a bag that Rhys produced. He'd gotten a suitcase from somewhere and during the time after the ceremony had been collecting; within were various parts to just about everything from computers to radios. He collected the bits and pieces that survived the decay and destruction of the end times. Apart they didn't do anything but perhaps he'd be able to make something from them at some point, "well I think your going to love the workshop...it's not far from your room."The mention of the workshop triggered Karaskis' memory, "find a place for Chester in our rooms, he and Rhys have been working on Mycroft. If we can get Mycroft up and running again...that would be very helpful." Lifting one of the bags that Rhys and Clotho had gathered she looked over to the two, "You two will have rooms close to one another, I had a feeling you'd prefer it that way. Plus with Rhys and Maddie up near Taj and I more eyes the better." If Clotho was as much like her mother as Karaskis suspected she'd be overly armed at most times. As the deities started from the derelict building mortals and servants alike followed them heading to their new rooms in the Pantheon.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:44 am
Facing A Father's Reality
09.30.09 Joint with Cinderfae Eftemie Bettina was simply tired of this crap. She wanted her son back. With Jaster gone, he was all she had. Easily she discounted her sister and niece. Felista did not agree with her that Taj should give her more than she had. He had even taken HER son from her. And he was hers. Jaster was gone and he was never returning. She did not care what he had said to her before. So certain was she that Taj had clouded his thoughts, that it became the excuse she used. Madrigal was her son. Not Mystery's and she was getting him back. He belonged to her. Siddhi sat in the center of the floor playing with the baby. A blanket on the floor with a few toys that she dangled in front of him. He was getting more alert each day and she loved the time spent with him now. When he was older it would be his father who had his attention. Just as it should be, but even now Taj was a good father for one inexperienced. He spent time daily with the boy, sometimes taking over the feedings to hold and rock his son. When she heard the knock on the door, the aoide fully expected it to be the god. When she saw the woman standing there, she said nothing for a moment.
"I want to see my son. Now." Bettina stated pushing her way past Siddhi and to the boy. "You can go do whatever you need to and get out of my sight awhile."Siddhi raised an eyebrow. "I do not follow your orders, Lady. And I will remain here." She was trying to be polite knowing the woman was the child's mother. But it was Taj's orders she would follow. He had explained that the woman was not to be left alone with the child. Taj was sitting in a chair, reading. One of the few chances he had actually been able to look at one of the books that had already been in the room when he created it. Oddly it seemed to be a volume of short stories. Interesting but odd. He glanced over to where Karaskis was a time or two, a faint smile on his lips. This was nice to be able to just do nothing for an hour or so. They had both needed it, but then he knew many were simply being lazy this day. Everyone deserved it. Cinderfae Karaskis was settled back on the bed with her feet propped up, she was writing over a few sheets of paper with a pen. She wasn't sure exactly where it had come from but suspected it was created when the rooms were or someone conjured it. With a bit of a lull in the day she was attempting to compose a bit...Karaskis was pretty sure it would end up being a poem at some point - probably. After a bit of sitting in the quiet she leaned some to look over at Taj, "hm, anything interesting in your book?" The beginning of the disturbance in Maddie's room hadn't reached her ears yet. Rhys and Clotho sat on the floor in the center room behind the hidden door. Rhys' back was against the crook in the wall with his door on one side and Clotho's on the other. A sketch of a crossbow was laid out in front of them, "keep in mind I'm not use to making anything so... primitive but it should hopefully suffice until I can figure out how I'm going to get some of the materials I need for something more complicated."Clotho's wings were laying on her shoulders like a cloak a slight grin came over her face or as much of a grin as the draconian appearance would allow her, "that should make it easier to make." Eftemie
"Then I'll just take him to my rooms." Rather roughly and upset at her plans being spoiled, she picked up Madrigal. Disturbed the baby began to cry softly and to fuss. She had intended to slip out with the baby when the aoide left the room. Instead she plainly stated her actions.
"You may go, but Maddie remains here." Siddhi stated firmly. She moved between Bettina and the door. "He needs rocked now that you have disturbed him."
"Rock him? He'll stop crying in a few minutes. It's you that is disturbing him. Now get out of my way. I'm taking my son with me." Bettina stated, trying to brush past the aoide again. One of Siddhi's hand snaked out to stop the woman from reaching the doorhandle. "I will take him now. I suggest you speak to Lord Tajnevaki" she said, then reached for the child. With more arms she was able to force the woman to give her the child and still hold him. Taj grinned, shrugging. But then he turned back to the page he was reading with a smile. If he'd have been sitting closer he'd have teased her a bit by kissing her and then going back to his reading immediately. But his ears picked up a faint sound, his head turning towards the secret door to the small room that led to the children's rooms. Maddie was crying but it could barely be heard. Siddhi would settle him down in a few moments. Babies cried. If if did not stop, he would get up in a few moments to go see. He was probably just wet again. Cinderfae Karaskis smirked slightly and tossed the tablet and pen aside. Crawling down the bed she looked over at the book, her attempt at composition wasn't going so well; considering idly if she should speak to Echo about an instrument at some point she decided to bother with it more later. Right now bothering mystery was of more interest and if it was a lazy day she decided he should be joining her. "...so, should I guess or persuade it out of you?" As Taj shifted Karaskis turned to look toward the secret door as well, sitting quietly a moment she picked up the sound of Maddie starting to cry. "You have very good ears," curling her legs under her she rested back on the bed waiting to see if Siddhi would get the baby calmed...and what Taj would end up doing. Rhys rolled his eyes, shaking his head slightly, "well I'm going to need to see if anyone knows how to make this sort of weaponry. I have some ideas but want to check with some others. Maybe one of the guards from Ba - " he cut off as Clotho raised her hand frowning slightly and sitting still to listen. Now that he wasn't talking he could hear some muffled sounds from Maddie's room. After a moment Clotho looked to Rhys, "Maddie's mother is here." There was a hint of annoyance in the Draconian's voice.
"She is his mother...I don't see, what the problem is," Rhys furrowed his brow, he didn't really know what all had been going on with the baby and the mortal. Clotho shifted back to rest against the wall, "it sounds like the aoidi has it in order, as for why there are problems...let me tell you about someone I once knew. I use to work for a freighter captain, a bit less fat and lazy then most of them tend to be...nice guy." Clotho stretched slightly, it was a lot for her to admit that anyone she worked for was worthy of it or nice; something Rhys had picked up on. "Anyways he had a thing with a server at one of the pubs along the ring, ends up she starts wanting to get serious. Harry ends it, because he's a spacer no point in continuing something like that with someone he might never see again. She gets upset of course...anyways we head out of port; three days out we get a message beacon from this girl - she's pregnant. So we end up having to turn ourselves around and go find out about this girl. We get there and she starts demanding all sorts of things...wants Harry to settle down, sell his ship. Take care of her, marry her..." Clotho snorts slightly, "come to find out she was pregnant...three months she'd been pregnant - kid wasn't even his, she was just trying to use it to trap him into doing what she wanted..." Lifting her hand Clotho gestures to the door with a few of her claws, "reckon that's a bit what Bettina there is trying to do."Eftemie
"Let go of me!" she yelled as her wrists were grabbed and the child taken from her. Her eyes narrowed in fury as she slapped at the aoide when she let go of her. "Give him back!" Maddie shuddered and began crying harder as Siddhi pulled him protectively against her. She had no choice but to use her other two hands to fend the woman off, using them to guard herself and the child. But not once did she hit her as she wanted to. "Shh.. you are frightening him." The aoide was almost at a loss on what to do other than to try to calm the baby down. Surely the woman could see the sense in not upsetting the child further.
"You redheaded witch!" she blurted out at the top of her lungs. "I said give me back my baby! I'm taking him with me!" She continued to grab for her son even though Siddhi continually pushed her hands away.
"My orders are to keep him here. And until Lord Taj tells me otherwise, HIS are the orders I will follow. Now please step back so I can calm Maddie down." It was taking all her patience not to just shove the woman off her. Madrigal was now screaming at the top of his lungs at the sound of his mother's shrieking. Siddhi tried to soothe him, but even though the child was sort of clinging to her, he would not settle down. He most likely was not going to with the woman yelling as she was. "Please stop. You are frightening him. Go speak to Lord Taj and stop this." the aoide protectively tried to soothe the baby but that was going to be impossible with the woman acting as she was. It was then she understood the situation was going to get out of hand and winced. Lord Taj was just in the next room and he would hear this. He would not be happy with this woman. The aoide had moved away from the door when suddenly Bettina grabbed a fistful of her hair. "I'm his mother! You are nothing! I'll see that he gets a different nanny too! I'll force Taj to give me one!" she yelled out, trying to pull the aoide back around. Siddhi grabbed hold of the woman's hand, holding it so she could not pull further. "Let go of my hair." Now she was getting angry and her face turned a bit red. Before too much longer she was going hit this woman instead of trying to be polite as Taj had asked her to be. But even then she could only take so much. Taj frowned suddenly as he turned towards the door again. Maddie was in full blown scream now. Something was wrong. But that was not all he heard. He heard the words 'red headed witch' screamed out. Shaking his head he was on his feet, glancing over Karaskis. He was suddenly sure that Bettina was there and Siddhi most likely had her hands full. Closing his book, he moved towards the door. This confrontation was not going to be good. He had no patience to write anything on a paper for the woman but he would get her out of there so that Maddie calmed down. Cinderfae Karaskis picked up on Maddie crying more, and then she heard the shouting. Frowning she moved off of the bed; she was guessing it was the child's mother. She still hadn't met the woman and from the commotion that sounded like it must be much worse from the other room...she was pretty sure it wasn't going to be a very good first meeting. Looking toward Taj she knew his mind must be getting in there as well, "lets hurry." Karaskis hurried along after Taj her barefeet padding softly on the floor. Clotho had just finished her story to Rhys when she heard the commotion growing more in the other room, "It's getting worse, I think Siddhi might need some back up." Pulling herself up the Draconian moved toward Maddie's room, "get your mother and Tajnevaki." Jerking the door open the draconian's eyes narrowed at the scene ... hair pulling really... Clotho started over her mind on attempting to pull the woman apart and hoping that Siddhi would be able to keep ahold of Maddie during all of it. Rhys darted up and moved to the secret door opening it only to find the two he was told to get heading in, "I think Bettina and Siddhi are fighting, Clotho is going to try and break it up," speaking quickly he moved back out of the way so the two could pass by him. Eftemie Nodding to Rhys, he smiled faintly just for him, but then turned towards the door. When he opened it, he shook his head gritting his teeth at the scene before him. The woman just did not stop. His son was his first priority and to ensure his safety, Bettina needed out of the room. Siddhi maintained her hold on the baby, still trying to soothe him though the hair was getting a bit painful now as the woman continued to tug. She glanced gratefully at Clotho when she entered. "Get her to let go of me so I can soothe down Maddie." she asked. It was in her eyes to simply slam the woman away, but she was trying to maintain her temper. The baby pulling her hair was acceptable. This was not. Bettina was separated momentarily from Siddhi's hair, but then her other hand snaked out, wrapping her fist in it again even though Clotho had made her release the first bunch. "Get off me!" she growled at Clotho. "He's my son!" Taj's eyes narrowed in sudden anger at Bettina. Maddie was extremely upset. Siddhi had as much reason for the anger in her eyes. This was going too far. "Let go of me!" Bettina yelled again. "He's my son! You cannot keep him! He's mine!" Reaching out "That red witch is not fit to watch over him! I want someone else! And he's coming with me!" Siddhi's eyes turned towards Taj and Karaskis when they entered. She was upset by this and she knew the baby was picking it up. His small fists were wrapped tightly against her as he screamed at the top of his lungs. Taj never hesitated, he nodded to Clotho to get her outside as he forced Bettina's hand open so that she let go of Siddhi's hair. The aiode breathed a sigh of relief as she moved away from the woman. Indicating the door, he moved towards his son ignoring the girl, leaving her to the others to get outside so that he could speak to her in a few moments. His son needed to be settled down first. Siddhi handed Maddie over to his father who cradeled him closely. Kissing his forehead, he tried to settle the baby down. Cinderfae Taking the signal from Taj as to meaning she should get to the girl out that's what Clotho did, years of working on various space rigs and hard labor had made her muscles rather formitable. Plus she had picked up a few tricks along the way, propelling Bettina out of the room Clotho twisted her wrist in such a way that it would grow more painful if Bettina struggled and would hopefully make it easier to move her, "don't get too rough, might snap your wrist."Catching a look at Rhys at the door Clotho added a bit of direction for him, "Tell Tajnevaki I'm taking her down out of the rooms, I'll keep her there I'm sure he's going to want to talk to her."In an attempt to cut down on hysterics, she really hated hysterics, Clotho started talking once they hit the top of the stairs, "so Maddie's your son, why do you want him?" The Draconian allowed a pause before going on, "do you love him? Want to be a part of his life?" She still suspected the girl was much like the one that attempted to use her old captain. Spotting Erzulie's door near the bottom of the stairs Clotho made toward it, if there was some sort of problem more she knew that the Aoide would be able to help. "Right," Rhys just nodded some to his friend before moving more into the room. Taj and Siddhi were attempting to calm Maddie, Cinder...or rather who use to be Cinder stood back a bit of a frown on her face as she watched not wanting to crowd in. A bit of at a loss what to do Rhys eyes fell to the blanket on the floor, moving over he scooped up on of the toys he knew that Maddie preferred and moved over toward the two smiling slightly he moved to the side holding the toy so they could see it but waiting instead of intruding. He'd give Taj the message once things were settled. Eftemie Before Bettina understood what had happened, she was out of the room. "Let go...Ow..." she began but then stopped when her wrist hurt. She had no doubts this creature could break her wrist. "Why? Because he's my son. Taj has no claim to him. He was mine and Jaster's. Jaster is gone. And I want my son. He belongs to me. She wouldn't let me take him and he's my son. She wouldn't even leave the room. That witch. I'll have her replaced for daring to interfer." Taj would give her what she wanted eventually. Jaster might be gone but she was still the boy's mother. Taj nodded to Rhys to dangle the toy in front of the baby to see if he could distract him any. Maddie continued to scream for a few moments, but finally settled down as Taj continued to hold him. Finally he blinked tiredly watching the toy and the people around him. Whatever had upset him was gone and he settled down but fussily. Siddhi quickly moved to prepare a bottle, handing it to Taj soon afterwards. Maddie took it but barely sipped for a moment or two before his eyes closed and he drifted off. Taj moved towards the cradle, gently slipping the child into it and rocking slightly. It took a few moments for the child to sleep deep enough that he remained asleep but when he did so, Taj turned to watch Siddhi. Folding his arms he waited on an explaination.
"I apologize, my Lord." she said softly not wanting to disturb the baby. "Maddie and I were playing on the floor when she showed up. She wanted to see him so I let her in. She told me to leave the room which is against your orders and I refused. She grabbed Maddie from the floor and said she was taking him with her then. I refused to let her and took him from her. She started screaming and I asked her to quiet down. She was as you saw her, my Lord. He will need to be checked for bruises. She was not gentle at all with him."Taj nodded. Siddhi had done just as he had expected. Turning to Rhys, he wrote quickly, He watched Maddie a few moments more before turning back to Siddhi. Cinderfae Clotho sighed at the response, not letting go of the hold on the woman's arm, "so you want the child because he belongs to you...so like a possession." Truthfully the draconian had very limited maternal instincts, when a draconian child was born it was placed in a nursery where robots raised them until a certain age. Clotho had more contact with her parents since she was raised in a mining colony were a nursery was not set up so she was actually raised with them. Clotho snorted slightly, from what she saw Bettina was going to find herself without much of a foot to stand on. From down the hall Erzulie rounded the corner, Clotho paused with Bettina and nodded to her, "had a bit of trouble upstairs." Erzulie frowned some moving over to Clotho and her apparent prisoner. "Well she doesn't look like she'll be much trouble to keep controlled at least, where are you suppose to take her?"
Clotho replied with a bit of a shrug. Rhys waited until Maddie was resting and then settled the little plushie into the crib near him, looking over he made note of Taj's message before running out of the room in an attempt to find Clotho. Knowing that she had taken the main stairs instead of taking Bettina through the hidden passage he hurried along, spotting Clotho, Bettina, and Erzulie in the hall he moved over to the three. "Taj wants her taken to the audience chamber," Rhys' gaze went to Bettina a bit uncertainly as Clotho motioned to Erzulie to move with her to take the woman to the large chamber. Deciding that he wanted to see what happened Rhys followed along as well. After things had calmed Karaskis moved over and gave Taj a quick embrace knowing that he may need it after the small outburst. "I'll go with you, when you speak to her if you want..."Eftemie Bettina stared at both Erzulie and Clotho. "You are treating me as if I have no rights to him at all. HE is my son. Not Taj's. I won't be treated like this." She protested but she knew her words were falling on deaf ears. Others would hear of this treatment. She would not stand for her son being taken from her. In the end Taj would give him back to her and she would make him pay for this. Taj hugged Karaskis a moment nodding. Bettina was just being unreasonable in doing this and he was angry about it. More than angry in fact. He hesitated a moment then continued. < She is not to be left with Maddie alone. I do not trust her with him. As Siddhi said when he wakens I will check to make sure he has no bruises on him. She should not have been yelling as she was. What is wrong with her? Everyone knows you do not yell in such a way or fight with a child in your arms.> Angry was not the word for what he was feeling at the moment. Only supervised visits from this point on. If Siddhi was not in the room, someone else would be. He was taking no chances but had left the woman with the benefit of the doubt after she seemed to push the baby aside when first born. It had been more than a week since the last time she'd seen him. And now she was suddenly demanding again. He moved to watch Maddie again, tucking the blanket around the baby gently. A faint smile crossed his face but he turned to Siddhi. < Keep an eye on him. He does not leave here with her. Ever. If you have to leave the room, then someone else must be here with them.> Cinderfae Clotho and Erzulie moved Bettina along toward the audience chamber, "he is Tajnevaki's son as well. If you had wanted him you'd have actually been here, instead of showing up in hopes of holding him so you can demand what you believe your owed." She didn't bother arguing too much with the woman, she was either delusional or didn't care. Erzulie stepped ahead of the two to open up the audience chambers, for now the chambers needed more added to them. But they were large with dais that had rather impressive looking chairs upon it for Mystery and Fire to speak to those that needed a more formal meeting. Rhys ran ahead and lit some of the braziers illuminating the area with small open fires. A bit of a smile came over his face as he looked over the effect. Karskis stepped back waiting for Taj to be ready to go, she didn't have much to say to the woman and this was really Mystery's place. But she also wanted to know what was going on and felt she should be there in case he needed her. "I'll be ready to go down whenever you are."Eftemie "I will protect him, my Lord." Siddhi replied. She took her job to protect Madrigal seriously. Moving towards the blanket and toys they had been playing with, she picked them up to put them away. A part of her worried about how the boy would take his mother once he was older. This needed to be stopped now before it became a true problem for the child as much as them. Bettina stared as the boy lit the fires. It made the place seem rather like some place from hell than an audience room. She stared around her. They could not do this to her, could they? All sorts of thoughts occurred to her as she stood there. Not the least of which were the things she felt she was entitled to. But everyone kept getting in her way. Even her sister did. Her head had been turned by Saljin and Delphine into accepting all this. Taj nodded, turning towards Karaskis. Writing as he walked, Taking the quicker way, he turned towards the doors of the audience room. She would get the point or her interaction with the boy would be even more limited. He had to think of the boy's safety even if it was from his mother. Shutting the doors behind them, Taj turned to Kara handing her the first question as he stared at Bettina.
Cinderfae Clotho sighed gently, she didn't mind so much having to do a bit of enforcement but the domestic issues were always overly annoying and messy, "they should be here soon..." letting go of Bettina's arm she gestured to a nearby bench for her to sit on if she'd like. Clotho took a step back resting her hands behind her back standing tall in a guard like manner, Erzulie moved back toward the door doing much of the same. Just because Bettina wasn't likely to be much of a problem wasn't a reason to let their guards down. Rhys moved over to another bench further away from Bettina he didn't really want to sit too close. Glancing over Karaskis read over what Taj wrote nodding slightly, "I can do that. And it sounds like she is wanting some sort of payment ... using Maddie as a chip. So I will be more then happy to read for you."Taking the note from Taj, Karaskis moved to the edge of the Dais. Standing tall and looking down at Bettina, "I'm going to be reading for Tajnevaki, he's going to be asking you some questions."Eftemie Taj stared at Bettina a moment moving over to stand beside Karaskis. He nodded at her to ask the first question, holding out what he'd written after adding < Watch for the spots she lies. > Bettina stared at Karaskis and Taj. "Fine. Whatever. But why am I being interrogated? Should not that red witch be here also? I want her gone from our son. She attacked me. She's not fit to take care of Madrigal."He raised an eyebrow, writing for Karaskis. < Tell her Siddhi is protection and remains such until the end of all. I want her explanation on the events. > He knew that was lie number one and noted it. The aoide had not attacked her. It was the opposite way around. It was she who was pulling the hair and hitting. Siddhi had merely been trying to protect herself. Let her tie her own neck in the noose. Cinderfae Karaskis gave a small nod to Taj before looking to Bettina, "Siddhi is still protection where it is needed, and she will remain there until the end of all." She attempted to keep it as close to Taj's words as possible, "now we would like to know your side of what happened." Karaskis had picked up on the lie as well but kept her expression neutral as she spoke. Clotho shifted in her spot picking up on the lie as well, she'd been able to hear the confrontation for most of it and had been the first in the room. She wasn't particularly surprised though, it was common enough for those that did things they knew wouldn't be approved of to lie about it later. When Karaskis announced that Siddhi would stay as she was Clotho shifted her stance ever so slightly, so she'd be better positioned in case Bettina attempted something further. After a moment she took time to shift her gaze toward Rhys wondering how the boy was taking it all. Rhys sat quietly listening, a slight frown on his face. Otherwise he looked Eftemie
"What happened? I went to see my son. From the moment I walked in she acted like I was intruding on her. I asked her to leave. She refused so I picked up my son to leave myself. He's not safe with her. She jerked him out of my hands and when I tried to get him back, she shoved me away from him. Several times. I did nothing wrong. He IS my son and I want to take him with me. If you want to see him, then you can come to me." Bettina folded her arms as she stared back at him.
Taj raised an eyebrow. Writing on the pad, he asked, having already noted the lie about Siddhi's actions. There were no marks on Bettina. If Siddhi had hit her, then there would have been bruises. And he also noted that this was what the entire episode was about. She wanted Taj to come to her as if she controlled him.
Holding out the pad to Kara, he watched Bettina silently. < Why do you want him now? You were screaming and you did not even seem to care about him when he was first born. In fact you would have nothing to do with him. Felista was taking care of both children. It was as much for her benefit as Maddie's that I took him. >
Cinderfae Karaskis frowned some listening to Bettina, she knew the woman was coloring the events in her favor. She worried less about Bettina lying to her and Taj and more of how she would lie to the other mortals. She didn't know all of the mortals that were staying in the mortal quarters which gave her a bit of worry...hopefully those they knew were loyal to them would be able to curve any rumors. Looking down at the new bit of paper to read Karaskis looked directly to Bettina her fiery eyes swirling some as she spoke to her, "Why do you want Madrigal now? You were screaming when he was first born - you were not there for him, in fact you would have nothing to do with him. Felista was taking care of both children. Tajnevaki took him in as much for her benefit as Maddie's." Karaskis was more then a bit annoyed at the whole ordeal, and truthfully if she felt Bettina wanted to raise Madrigal for reasons other then attempting power over a god or to rise her own position she'd have been happy to work with the girl; she knew Taj would have attempted similar as well. Clotho frowned a bit more to herself but stayed quiet, Bettina was slowly digging herself into something she couldn't get out of. Years of security work and training told her already who was the aggressor as had her own ears. Erzulie rested near the door, a few curious looks from those that resided in the rooms came her way. But Eruzulie waved them on. Eftemie
"Why would I not want him? He belongs to me. He did belong to Jaster, but Jaster is not there anymore. We would have been a family." Her words were aimed to hurt Taj and point out to him what he had done. He had broken a family up. Taj never flinched, but a slow smile crossed his face. He understood entirely now. This was her way of spiteing him and getting a bit of revenge. She would always try to use Madrigal against him to get whatever she wanted. Writing again, he said, < Children do not belong to anyone. Parents do not OWN nor yell, they instruct and protect even if angry. Though unseen, Jaster DOES exist. I am he as he is me. Jaster loved another and will eons hence just as I do. >Then he added to Kara. Cinderfae To say that Karaskis wasn't impressed with the attempt to pain Tajnevaki was an understatement. The woman felt she was entitled to forcing someone to be with her because of a child, which in her mind was exactly the wrong way to go about it. She idly wondered, likely a thought picked up from the Cinder part of her mind what sort of birth control they had in the labyrinth; most places had it after all. Pushing her meandering thoughts away she looked over to the pad of paper again. "Children do not belong to anyone. As Madrigal's parent you do not -OWN- him no yell, a parent is to instruct and protect even if angry. Jaster does still exist, Tajnevaki says, 'I am he as he is me'." Karaskis suspected that the wording would be lost on the woman but quoted Taj directly. "Finally you should know, Jaster loved another and he will continue to for eons hence as Tajnevaki does." Karaskis shifted slightly as she spoke, but not enough to show discomfort. It wasn't a secret that she and Mystery were together and really in all of this didn't want to give the woman more to be hateful toward. Karaskis glanced over to Taj, she'd repeat the last about the rules once she knew he was ready for her to. Eftemie "He does belong to me. He is my son and it is for me to decide what his fate is. Not you. You are not Jaster. You killed him." she insisted, a glare in her eyes. And Jaster had been hers. No matter what they thought they knew. Taj simply stared at her. Writing on his tablet, he stated, < First you will not see him at all should you behave as you did today. Do not touch any of my aoidei nor anyone else here in my care. They are my immortals and you should be happy I have given one to look after him. Siddhi is the perfect nanny for him as she's able to not only rock him and play with him, she can also complete her tasks as she needs to. They are not your servants but mine and they follow only my orders.
Next, your visits will be supervised entirely. There are enemies out there that will take advantage of him. I will not permit it. If you yell as you did, you will not see him either. A caring mother does not yell and fight with a child in her arms or anothers.
At this moment you are able to come and go here freely whenever you want to see him. If you do not abide by this, you will not see him at all except as I allow. I will NOT have this sort of disturbance again. You will be banished from my rooms. > Then to Karaskis, he added, < Make sure she understands this. I will not tolerate it and neither will anyone else here. > Taj gazed directly at Bettina. Little was seen on his face except that he was serious. Cinderfae Karaskis' left eye twitched ever so slightly, Cinder remembered her time with Jaster and then he was very much his own man. Not tied up in some romance with a bar wench that seemed to be having some sort of inferiority issue. Shifting some after taking the paper from Taj Karaskis looked directly to Bettina as she spoke, "Tajnevaki will decide the rules under which you will see Madrigal. First you will not see him at all should you behave as you did today. Do not touch any of the aoidei nor anyone else here in his or my care. They are our immortals and you should be happy I have given one to look after him. Siddhi is the perfect nanny for him as she's able to not only rock him and play with him, she can also complete her tasks as she needs to. They are not your servants but Tajnevaki's and they follow only his orders.
Next, your visits will be supervised entirely. There are enemies out there that will take advantage of him. We will not permit it. If you yell as you did, you will not see him either. A caring mother does not yell and fight with a child in her arms or anothers.
At this moment you are able to come and go here freely whenever you want to see him. If you do not abide by this, you will not see him at all except as Lord Mystery allows. We will NOT have this sort of disturbance again. You will be banished from our rooms if there is further disruptions." Karaskis shifted her gaze some looking over Bettina's posture and facial expression. "Do you understand all of this?"Eftemie Bettina stared directly back at Taj and Karaskis for a long moment. As she listened, she was incredulous that he was treating her as if she was nothing. But then she understood that there was a faint glimmer of Jaster in his eyes. An attitude that she could not deny and she glanced away, wilting slightly. As she listened, she steeled herself again. Dictating to her when she could see her son. She would see about that. Turning back, she raised her chin slightly.
"I understand." she would simply have to go about this differently. But she would find a way to get her son inspite of what Tajnevaki thought he was doing. "May I see Maddie now?"Taj's eyes narrowed. She was giving in far too easily. The girl would definitely have to be watched. One day Maddie would have power and that was the other reason he did not want her to be able to decide what he would do. It was something the boy would need to decide for himself. He would need to tell Kara about that though. Jaster had been half elven not knowing until recently. With Bettina's elven blood that made the boy at least three quarters elf. And with power though Taj was uncertain what it would be. Finally he shook his head negatively at her question. Cinderfae Karaskis frowned slightly watching Bettina, her thoughts mirrored Taj's as well. Shifting her gaze over to Clotho she motioned to the door with a slight tilt of her head, "Please see that Bettina finds her way out."She then turned her gaze to Bettina, "we are through here this day, you may return another time. But for now Madrigal sleeps and will not be disturbed." Stepping back slightly she shifted her gaze to look over toward Rhys. Smiling slightly Karaskis motioned him up toward her holding a hand out. He'd walk with her and Taj back to the rooms. Not having to be told twice Clotho moved over to the side allowing Bettina to walk on her own but keeping a close eye in case the woman decided to attempt to veer from her set path. Erzulie waited near the door opening as Bettina passed. The aoide didn't bother to follow but stayed in the hall just in case there were problems. The mortal didn't seem like she would be making more trouble this day but they decided it was better safe then sorry. Spotting Karaskis, Rhys hoped up and crawled up toward her and Taj. After a moment of hesitation he took her hand following the two toward the hidden networks of halls and stairs. Eftemie Taj was seething inside because of the treatment of Siddhi and Madrigal. Bettina cared nothing for Maddie but would use him in any way she could. And she would not dictate to him who looked after the boy. Glancing at Rhys, he winked at him, squeezing his shoulder a moment. When they got back to the hallway where the nursery was, Taj opened the door indicating they follow him to check on the boy. Siddhi was rocking the cradle gently as the baby fussed slightly. "My Lord, Lady. Rhys." she said, bowing her head slightly. Noting Taj's questioning gaze, she said softly, "He woke a short time ago, ate very little but wanted held. There was a bit of fussing but he's settled now. I think by morning he will be smiling happily again. There were a few bruises on his arm and side. Nothing serious but still... "Taj nodded, writing out the rules that he had given for Bettina. When the aoide nodded, Mystery tucked the blanket around his son a bit tighter, then turned to Rhys. With a smile he wrote, < Take care of your little brother, Rhys. Keep an eye on him. He will need a big brother to love and be loved by. > Bettina walked away, slowly at first. But by the time she had returned to her room, she was seething. Felista tried to speak to her only to get the door slammed in her face. The girl walked back to Delphine, silently staring at the door to her sister's room. No good would come of this.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:45 am
Holding his son, Taj smiled faintly as he dangled the toy before him. Small hands and fingers reached for it. His lips curled upwards more as the baby giggled slightly. It was almost the soft coo of a bird. He looked like Jaster and the thought warmed him more than he had understood in the beginning. Any father was proud when his children held his features. There was little of Bettina there. The sudden thought of the boy's mother caused the smile to fall away quickly. His fear that she would use Madrigal was well-founded. It was a shame that it was so. Briefly he wondered if there was perhaps some way to turn this around. To turn her around. He sighed. Most likely not. Since the day Madrigal had been born, she had little to do with him. In fact she seemed more intent upon ignoring him and using him to her advantage. Maddie's needs had not seemed to matter to her at all. Felista had been taking care of him as well as her own child. It was what had led Taj to removing him from his mother's care. Delphine had tried to help at Saljin's suggestion but even then after a week or so, Bettina had shown little interest, ignoring the child's cries whenever he was with her. She seemed almost put out that she had a child. Taj's memories were perhaps colored by those of Jaster. His host's rememberances of his father were not good, though his mother had treated him exceptionally well. The father was what he saw in Bettina's actions and expressions. That worried him. What would it lead her to do? Jaster's father had sold him. Picking up Maddie, Taj moved to the chair nearby. The babe fussed a moment before settling down with his father. Curling up against Taj, he closed his eyes tiredly soon drifting off to sleep. A faint smile reappeared on Taj's face. He glanced towards the doorway able to hear Siddhi moving about on her much needed break. But then the image of Bettina and Siddhi as he had found them slipped down over him. Maddie had been screaming. Bettina's fist was wrapped in red hair and she was yelling. The smile faded again. No mother would have done the things she did that day. Especially not with her son right there. She should have more concern for the boy. Taj tried to give her the benefit of the doubt, but he suspected it was useless. Finally he put Madrigal in his crib. The baby was sound asleep as Siddhi entered the room from her own. Taj watched the innocence for a long moment before tucking the blanket around. He would make sure the boy had a happy life inspite of whatever his mother tried. He would simply have to pay attention. His son was worth it.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:46 am
Face Value - Taj & Cos
10.12.09 Joint midnight_medea Please do not post without permission.As soon as she had left Isra and her family Cosine made her way to the Pantheon. It was, as always overflowing with people. Mostly mortals, a few gods dispersed among them. It was a vast improvement from the days of Destruction. She could remember how empty and desolate it had been then. Ash and maybe god if you were lucky. Now it was a glorious place, so open and beautiful, there was greenery, life. It was hard to imagine that outside there was nothing but rubble and death.
Once she had made her way to the downstairs where the rooms were located she reached for the letter that Lisana had written her once more, trying to say the name of the god she was looking for over in her head. Lord Mystery. This should be interesting.
After asking for directions she found herself in front of a plain looking door. So very different to the others. They were all so elaborate and gave hints to the god that resided within.
She glanced down the hall, back to the door and gave an assertive knock. She felt a little foolish, how could this be the room of a god? Maybe it was a broom closet.
She would just have to check. Carefully she turned the handle on the door and eased it open a crack. She did not want to just barge in if it was his room. How rude that would be. Her eyes peered into the darkness within. She blinked a little and raised an eyebrow as it seemed she hd indeed opened the door to a storage room. There were old books, a mop and bucket, broken furniture. The goddess pulled back and closed the door again. Maybe she had gotten the directions wrong. Unlikely with her mthodical brain. She must have been given the wrong directions.
Sighing she took a step back from the door and looked around at the others in the hallway. Eftemie Taj shrugged as he and Saljin walked slowly towards his room. Time may or may not be on their side. He did not have all the answers, but he certainly liked the search for them. If he had his way, he would find everything unknown and then create more to start the search all over again.
"I see. You either are not going to say or you do know know." Saljin growled in some amused annoyance. The god simply shrugged again, but his grin widened considerably. He would not say whether he knew or not. It was who he was.
"Taj, I swear. You can be as frustrating as Jaster was." The shifter muttered. He winked at Saljin but then turned to see someone in front of his door. His lips twitched upwards as he studied her. Certain she was a goddess, he knew she was not one he had met. Nudging Saljin, he indicated her. "My Lady, may we help you?" Saljin asked, noting the expression of confusion. She appeared to be looking for something or someone. But then understanding she was standing in front of Taj's door, his eyes almost looked amused. Had she opened it and found the closet? Or something else? Taj had explained that it would be what the person did not expect to see. midnight_medea At the sound of movement Cosine turned and raised an eyebrow. Two people had just emerged from the closet. She hadn't seen anyone in there.
"Uh, yes." She said with smile, fumbling with the note to make sure she got his name right. "I'm looking for Lord Tajnevaki. I am Cosine, goddess of Numbers." Eftemie Taj's lips twitched upwards as he bowed to Cosine. he wrote holding out the tablet to her.
Saljin smiled faintly wondering if she had seen something other than Taj's room. He suspected that many would be that way. No less confusing that Lisana's doorknobs were he imagined. "This is Lord Mystery, Lady Cosine. I am Saljin. He is silent, but often louder in his cryptic words than many others."
His lips turned upwards into an amused smile. "When he chooses to write them. More often than not a grin is all one receives. What may we do for you?"midnight_medea Cosine peered at the written words and turned her eyes up to his with an equal grin.
"Ah yes, two is quite the useful number." She laughed, shaking her head in amusement. She could see how he would be friends with Lisana. As his companion spoke she smiled and nodded.
"I suppose I woul expect nothing less from the god of Mysteries. Lisana told me that he would be able to point me in the direction of the rooms Harmodius had provided for the mortals. I have some friends who are still in the Inn and they need a place of safety." Eftemie Taj offered Cosine his arm as he indicated they walk towards another door. It was plain, simple wood, but served its purpose. Situated between he and Lisana, Mystery was certain many would think it a closet just as his room was mistaken. Saljin began to speak as he walked behind them. "The rooms are plain, simply furnished, Lady Cosine. But they will serve to protect everyone. Each section has a common circle with five bedrooms for each community." He indicated the doors and then the hallway nearby leading into the next one. "We are not sure how many there are, having only explored the first few out of necessity. But there are those that are empty just beyond those Lady Lisana has claimed. Once we are certain it is safe, we can build homes outside again for more space."Mystery nodded. His own had taken the first two areas simply because they were first to arrive. Lisana's had claimed the next few, but there were still more beyond even those. Seemingly endless and he suspected drawing power from Harmodius to exist. He was protecting them all as much as they were trying to protect him. midnight_medea Cosine smiled as the god offered her an arm in a rather gentlemanly manner and listened to his companion closely. Sure, the space was not much but it was a safe place for the families and that was what mattered the most. It was certainly better than the run down rooms of the inn that they had been living in before
"I am certain they will be very greatful." She said, taking in the rooms as they walked. "Lady Lisana's room is nearby?" Eftemie "Lady Lisana's door is just on the other side of this one. This place is sandwiched between hers and Taj's doors. It is colorful with bubbles and a doorknocker that speaks. I do not think you could miss it, but go prepared with a riddle and answer or you may never get in or out." Saljin explained as he contined with them. He thought about Harry and Jerry and nearly laughed. They were inventive if nothing else and he had to give Laughter credit for such. Taj grinned widely as he glanced around them. Children were laughing and playing. Perhaps the first time in ages that it had been so carefree. Many sat relaxing and talking, even laughing quietly with each other. It looked like they were settling in well and happily. "Everything is simple but they are protected and happier than they were before." the shifter commented looking around. Delphine was talking to Felista as both fussed over the baby, taking turns. He smiled watching his daughter fondly. She was growing so fast already. It seemed she changed each and every day and soon she'd be crawling around and even then walking. Suddenly several small giggles broke out as someone tugged a few strands of Taj's hair, pulling it outwards. Her wings fluttered quickly much like a hummingbird's did as she giggled again mischieviously. "Taj, does Lady Kara know you have another girl on your arm? I bet there will be fireworks when she finds out." Mi'shala smirked as she teased the god. He was her favorite of those she had met. Afterall, he had saved them from certainly being eaten by a demon even though they had not run into any except the oni who served him. Two other fairies drifted into the air beside her, giggling as they likewise took strands of his hair and twisted them around hers. midnight_medea A laugh escaped Cosine's lips as Lisana's door was described to her. She would expect nothing less from her friend, though maybe she would have to come up with a number riddle or two before she visited. She would not like to be made a fool of, though, was that not the point?
As they walked she watched the women with the baby. It was so nice to see life blooming after the darkness they had been through.
"Happiness is such a simple luxury. I am glad that people are finding it in the simplest of places once more."
Her attention was taken by the movement and giggles she turned and smirked as she watched the little women toy with the mystery god's hair. Their words made her laugh a little.
"If the linking of arms meant anything so serious all gentlemen would be in trouble with their ladies." She smiled, watching them out the corner of her eye. Eftemie "That is my daughter, Trumani." Saljin explained proudly as he glanced their way again. Bettina was nowhere to be seen. Not surprising. "Unexpected, but no less loved." He glanced at Taj, wondering about Araven and if Taj would tell Cosine about his son. "She'll be crawling soon. It'll take Delphine and Felista both to keep up with her if she has any of my ability. I'm a shapeshifter through a curse but it's saved me and others more than once, so I can live with it. And... It would not be the first time Taj was in trouble with ladies, girls. You give him enough trouble."" he laughed watching Mi'shala, Li'ena, and Aly'strya a moment.
"Hmpft... we keep things interesting," Mi replied, sticking her tongue out at Saljin. She flew up, kissing Taj on the cheek. "Besides, he saved us and we like him better than you. You didn't, and he wants us around. Soooooo.. who is she? I guess we should ask her that, hmm...." She giggled again, glancing over at Cosine again with mischief in her eyes. "Should WE be jealous of her?"Taj winked at Cosine. There would be no fireworks. Karaskis would know that he had been showing the goddess around. She would not mind anymore than she had when he had spoken to Lisana and somewhat watched after the goddess. They were all in this together, but he did enjoy the mischief the fairies created. He glanced at Saljin when he spoke of Trumani. Araven was in his room and he was thinking of introducing Cosine to his son. Jaster had been very silent for some time and Taj knew he was mostly merged into him so it was proper he referred to him as his son. Besides he wanted to claim the boy.
"There are other fairies here also- from another place than these three troublemakers," Saljin grinned and added, "Puck came from the Labyrinth, but I imagine he's out trying to help conjure up his magic again. For awhile he was entirely without, but he said he's certain it is starting to return. He promised to help out for awhile before he returns to see if much is left at home."---- ((I added links, medea so you know who the fairies are, lol. They just are the same color as Saljin's.)) midnight_medea The goddess watched the faries with amusement and shook her head with more laughter.
"I am Cosine, goddess of Number. You have nothing to worry about from me, I'm taken." She grinned at Taj's wink and continued to watch all the new beings.
"Your daughter is precious Saljin." Her mind drifted back to his previous words. "I am sure she will keep you on your toes as all daughters should." Eftemie Saljin smiled widely. "I'm hoping she's a handful actually. And... she has a cousin. " He glanced at Taj who nodded. " "Born nearly the same hour but a few days apart. Taj's son as much as his host's. But back to the rooms here for a moment, the next two or three sections or so are those of Lisana's people. The ones beyond that are empty. And we are not entirely certain how many there are. We never reached an end. Tell them to pick as they will on the rooms beyond hers."Mi'shala giggled. "He's going to be a handsome boy too. Green eyes and red hair too like Taj's used to be."He grinned, nodding. Pulling his pad out, Taj wrote, < Araven? > His lips twitched as he held it out to her watching her expression, a question in his eyes. He wondered if she would understand that he intended to have her meet his son if she wanted. And Siddhi, the aoide who watched over him constantly to Bettina's dismay. The girl had gotten very ill-tempered since understanding that Jaster was gone. He would not let her unduly influence the child. midnight_medea She listened and raised an eyebrow as she began to understand. His host had a child. So he was new to the realm of the gods, like her.
"Oh, well that's interesting." She said, not really sure how else to comment. She did, however have an urge to see the little one. Her eyes drifted to the board. "Araven. That is a nice name. Could I meet him?" She asked with a smile. "My own host seems to have left me with a love of children." She laughed a little nervously. "I have found myself surrogate Aunt for Underworld's offspring." Eftemie Taj smiled even wider. He loved the boy already as much as Jaster had in those first moments. The child would grow up knowing that Taj loved Jaster for what he had done for him. And that he loved his son as much. Oddly he did not remember having any children at all before the fading, but then so much of that was still a mystery to even him. Perhaps he had. He supposed there was a record somewhere if he went looking for it, but he had no real desire to do so now. Indicating the door out, he moved to the plain door she had been looking at earlier. This time it opened up into a cavern. But instead of moving towards a room, Taj lead her directly forwards and then they climbed up the stairs which until the moment Taj stepped on them had not been there. He grinned widely with a shrug. Many things were hidden in his rooms and this was but one of them. Leading her up to the second floor, they stood in his workshop for a moment, the arced shaped room in front of them. Turning to the left, he walked but a few paces before he led her directly towards a wall which vanished as he neared it. The room here was oddly shaped also, curving around to a set of stairs that went downwards at each end. The child was being held by Siddhi, two arms rocking him as two others folded clothing and diapers that she had washed earlier that day. Glancing over she stopped, bowing immediately, long red hair slipping over her arm. "You picked a good time, my Lord. He has eaten and will perhaps be sleepy in a few moments. But he is in a very good mood as he always seems to be." The babe in her arms yawned sleepily, but struggled to look around. Even as small as he was, his bright green eyes noted Taj to one side. Saljin glanced over at Siddhi, adding, "This Siddhi, she watches over Araven for Taj."(( I'm trying to get Taj's floorplan done but with no scanner, I can't get my sketches uploaded yet. So I didn't describe much, medea. )) midnight_medea Cosine followed, smiling at Taj's obvious love for a child that was perhaps only half his. His rooms were intriguing, though, of course wasn't that the point? She watched with wonder as the stairs appeared and they climbed them all the way to a wall that was not a wall.
The room they entered smelled soap and baby. Cosine smiled to see the little one in Siddhi's arms and took a small step closer so that she could get a better look at him.
"Hello." She said with a smile as she was introduced to Siddhi. "I am Cosine, goddess of Number. He is quite adorable." Eftemie "My Lady." Siddhi replied, bowing. "Would you care to hold him? He's rather active right now and happy." Then rather dryly, she added, "Likes to pull hair." His fingers were knotted around a long strand of red hair. The rest she had tied back to prevent such while she tended him. Taj grinned widely as he watched his son. Writing, he added, He gently unclenched his son's hand so that Siddhi could hand the boy over to the goddess. Green eyes stared upwards almost in amusement at his father's actions. Mystery's lips twitched as if he and his son already had secrets between them. midnight_medea The goddess's reaction to the invitation was to blink, shock with a pinch of nerves. She had not held something so small before. The words of the woman made her smile a little and she thought of Crys.
"I have a niece of sorts, she likes to chew hair." The goddess laughed a little and held her arms out ready to take the young one gently. "A mad raven." She mused as she watched him. "Well he is in good company. I happen to be a counting crow." She smirked a little and shifted him in her arms to make them both comfortable. Eftemie "I imagine he will do that at some point, my Lady." Siddhi smiled. "It takes nearly all my hands now to keep him from it." It was a slight joke but truth also. She placed Maddie into the goddess's arms carefully Taj nodded, a wide grin on his face. He was certain his son would not be mad but he would be playful and into everything. Strangely he had tried to think of the boy as their son in the beginning- his and Jaster's. Now he was simply his son and that was all that mattered. He knew that Bettina was unhappy with the situation but he had to think of Madrigal more than her. Thankfully she was busy elsewhere today. Saljin laughed. "I guess it could be said that this place is going to the birds. A crow shape is one I often use." A smirk slipped across his face, but then he smiled at Cosine. "I could not resist, my Lady, with so many wings about. And I have my own that I frequently use to find out information."He had been meaning to talk to Taj about flying over the pantheon each day and the protected area just to see what was going on. It could be to their advantage to take stock of who was in the area doing what each day without anyone knowing. He would do so later. midnight_medea Cosine started to panic as the little one was handed to her. What if she dropped the little mortal. She thought, hugging his warm weight gently and watching his face. Once she had realised she was not about to drop or damage him she began to relax a little, smiling as she looked down at his face.
She laughed at the bird jest and turned her eyes back up to the god and his servant.
"I am in good company then." She said with a smile. "If you are ever in your crow form and come across a female crow by the name of Infinity, you may look to her for help. She is an old old companion of mine." Eftemie Saljin nodded, grinning. "Should that happen, I shall indeed look her up. I was thinking that perhaps I might start flying over the pantheon each day just to see what is around us. It cannot hurt to know the area and what might disturb it."Taj glanced at Saljin and nodded. That was a good idea. And a shapeshifter would have an advantage in some ways. They'd know if there was any unusual movement in the area as a result. Madrigal looked upwards blinking, a faint frown on his face though it was not a conscious effort by the baby. He was merely drawn to the brightness of Siddhi's red hair and focused on it as if it were a toy. Mystery reached out handing him a toy rattle that was brightly colored and the boy's fingers grasped at it several times before actually holding it firmly in his fingers. A moment later the child was yawning sleepily. Siddhi had been glancing over at him as she continued her folding. She knew he would be getting sleepy soon. "I believe it's time for his nap, my Lady." The aoide smiled as she moved to take Maddie from Cosine. "I think he likes you. No fuss at all."midnight_medea
Cosine handed the baby over without much fuss and folded her arms at her waist. He really was a beautiful little baby. Mystery should be very proud indeed.
"I seem to have a knack for children. Which amuses me as I would have thought a goddess of number would not be interesting for the little ones. I know math is not a favourite subject among schoolchildren." She smiled and glance once more around the room and the welcoming people that lived within it. "Mystery on the other hand. Children, mort people love a bit of intrigue."Eftemie ((changed my color slightly. The other was actually too hard to see. This distinguishes what he says more... )) Taj grinned slightly, nodding. Mortals were curious. It was even moreso in Jaster and he knew the memories he held from the young man. It had led him to finding Taj's stone, and Truvin. Inspite of the danger and trepidation he had felt. This was the one thing he truly loved about mortals whether human or otherwise. They sought what they did not understand. Just as he did. And there were those who loved numbers as much. Her sibling had though Taj had not seen him since before he had left for space. Unsure if it would bring her sadness after such a pleasant time, Taj remained silent on that subject but instead turned to the door. Writing on his tablet, he said, < Weaponcraft is on my mind. A glass forge and metal forge have been created from Lisana's, Eid's, and mine. I seek enchanters and conjurers to better equip and supply. Should you have need of such, please seek us.> He found it doubtful that she would find working in such a place comfortable, but if she had need of something, there were those there who were skilled enough to help. Accidents were sometimes happily discovered. midnight_medea []
Cosine's eye followed the writing on the tablet, she smiled as the sentence formed itself and looked back up at Mystery.
"Thank you, that is interesting indeed. My mind is on rebuilding, maybe such people could be of use, once the Grigori have met their end. Forges will be needed, Enchanters would be useful too." She gave a small nod and breathed deeply. "Thank you, for your time, this has been an inspiring visit. It gives me hope."Eftemie ((OOC... I'd say this is a wrap. Thanks for the rp. *snugs* )) Taj nodded, a faint smile. He loves us all.>
Taj led her through the secret passages to the front door. Bowing, he smiled as he turned away. He had enjoyed this visit with Numbers and could see why she was a friend to Lisana.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:47 am
A Magician's Art
10.03.09 Solo A frown creased his brwo as he thought about the other portion of what Harmodius had told him. Magic- conjuring was needed. Jaster had been elven but never truly known of his potential and it was nothing that Taj could use now. But elves were not the only ones to do so. Even humans had rumors of magic though most were hidden behind legend and myth. Carefully he thought over all the people in his care. What did he see in each person and know of them? One by one he rejected them but then suddenly smiled. Tempest and his friends were magicians, but which of them carried true magic without knowing it. Taj studied his memories of each person. What was it he saw in them? One by one he rejected all but then suddenly smiled. Tempest. the mand was a magician of tricks, but there was more calling to him. He had managed to survive during the most difficult times. Was there more within him though was the question the god was asking himself. And the answer he needed to find. It was there within the man. He could almost see it shining. Perhaps he needed to have a talk with Tempest. Just give him a little nudge, a small push towards the belief that he could accomplish more than he understood. Saljin had been sitting nearby talking quietly to Triq when Taj tapped the table to get their attention. Shoving a slip of paper towards the aoide, he then turned to the shifter who raised an eyebrow. She blinked but got to her feet. "I'll get him, Lord Taj." Then she was out the door, brushing her skirt off in the process. She like many other aoide had taken to wearing more clothing. Shoving his tablet over to Saljin, Taj waited while the shifter read what he had written. Blinking in surprise, the man's jaw opened then closed quickly.
< He must strive for himself and others. > Taj added after a moment.
"You mean he has the ability to conjure as you are looking for?" Saljin was more than a little surprised that someone in their midst could do such. Taj nodded, smiling. He had not seen it in the beginning but he was certain now that there was something within the man. If Tempest managed to open up that gift then they would all know for certain.
"Are you certain, Taj? I mean... " It never occurred to him that Tempest had magic. His tricks were sleight of hand. Taj smirked. < It is rather ironic. > He wrote so Saljin could see it. Tempest and Triq returned after a few moments. The man watched Taj idly before sitting down. "You wanted to see me, Taj?"Taj nodded, indicating that Saljin tell him. The magician was in for a surprise and the god was quite certain that he would not take it well. He never did whenever he saw anyone perform real magic. Now he was joining their ranks. "Taj wants me to tell you someting, Tempest. Go ahead and take a seat." The shifter tried to gather his whirling thoughts to find the right words. This was not going to be easy. "This can't be good." the man muttered removing his hat as he sat down. Taj smiled, shrugging as Saljin sighed and continued. "Alright. Just listen. Lord Harmodius told Tja to look for several things. Not simply the weapons but also specific people. Conjurers or mages I suppose they were once called. People with the power to conjure from thin air some of the necessities of life. I guess some used items in exchange for what they created. Some used nothing or at least some form of magical energy. I'm not entirely certain myself. I only know what I have heard over my lifetime or read. Do you understand what I'm talking about?""So you want me to track down a few of these people? I can do that I guess.""Not exactly. We know where one is. But do you understand the type of magic I'm talking of? There are people who can create what they need. It may last minutes or even days, but it is they who create it. That is what we are looking for." Saljin knew to just come out and say it was probably best but Tempest needed more than that. As the idea of waht was needed was absorbed, the magician shook his head. "I guess I understand but none of my friends have anything like that. But I suppose I can ask some questions and see what they say." Running a hand through his hair, he was just so certain that none of them could do what had been described. He couldn't say he was interested in the prospect of hunting someone down. "We are not looking at your friends, Tempest." Saljin was beginning to think that the man was just obtuse, though he knew he was not deliberately missing the point. Laughing, he shook his head. "You don't have to find anyone either. It is you that has this gift."His jaw dropped open, violet eyes wide. His hat hit the floor. "What the hell are you talking about? I.. It's nothing... I mean. It's tricks. Sleight of hand." His mind suddenly reeled at the thought that he had power like that. There was no way. Just no way he did. "No. Taj says you have true magic. Magic to conjure food, water, and other things from nothing." the shifter reaffirmed the god's words. "He was not sure at first, but he is now.""I...I'm only human, Taj. Not elven or anything else." Tempest protested frowning intensely. Distractedly he picked up his hat again, rolling it around in his hands. "There were humans long ago who had such gifts, Tempest. They took the time to perfect their craft. Is there any such history in your family? Of this sort of magic?""Not that I know of. My... " he hesitated, but just an instant, "father was set against my becoming a magician. He was adamant enough to kick me out for what I do now. There's no way he'd have said anything about something like that in the family. I have no way of knowing."Saljin glanced at Taj and then back. "Perhaps he knew, Tempest. Quite often in such families, most were thoguth to be a sign of something evil. It was kept quiet and there wre even times when some were tortured and killed. That would have resulted in each generation suppressing without understanding why."Tempest glanced over at Taj, then at Saljin. Before long he was watching Taj again as Mystery simply smiled in amusement. In annoyance he said, "I think you are off your rocker, Taj." His voice was a growl of irritation and fear as he got to his feet. But an eerie feeling slid through him. Some of it fit. It fit too well. The description of his father's attitude mostly. "I really don't want to talk about this. I... just.. "He had learned his tricks on the sly, never bringing them home. He stared at Taj, frowning slightly. "I.. I don't know, Taj. I.. I'll think about it.""Alright, Tempest." Saljin replied at Taj's nod. "Go think about it and then see what you can figure out."Tempest left the room, his thoughts whirling. "Let's go for a walk, Yuri." he murmurred as he left the room. How did he figure this out? Even worse how did he start if he did? He knew nothing about such magic. Nothing.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 9:47 am
Faery Magic & Charm
10.09.09 Solo Puck and the other fairies from the Labyrinth settled into their space within Taj's rooms easily. It had been several days since the fairies had tried to cast their magic. All were stuck the size of humans and it was uncomfortable for nearly all of them. Except perhaps Puck. Having been around Saljin and the court of the Goblin King, the fairy had often cast a spell on himself to be of human stature. Still shorter than Saljin, he had enjoyed the freedom such provided. Surprisingly the moment they had entered the god's rooms, a small bit of their magic had returned. Many gleefully flitted around the entire area exploring until they found the the small palace. It was claimed immediately and soon the corner was lit with fairy magic cascading about. Mystery had given them much, including his protection. Puck preferred his room. Saljin had grown on him in ways he had not understood until now. He thought it most odd the way their lives had entwined from the beginning. It had begun the instant they met, a friendship starting. A frown crossed his face as he thought about how Saljin and Jaster had met. The shifter had been punished for something that Puck had done and sealed in the orb. Losing his friend that way had made Puck stop to think about his actions and when he had seen him with Jaster, the fairy had been more than happy he had been freed. So happy in fact that he had nearly left the Labyrinth with Jaster and Saljin. But when trouble came, all he could think about was finding them to make sure they survived the world's condition. Now it mattered little if he returned or not to his home. This was his home and he was far happier. Taj and the people had welcomed and protected them. Some loyalty was owed there and Mystery had it from him. As he reflected, Puck walked towards the corner waterfall where the palace was. Though tiny, it was elaborate for such a small place and as he shrank down to fit, the fairy quickly crossed the space, scattering fairy dust behind him. "Puck's here!" a voice lilted, giggling as she glanced over from where she brushed another's hair with a comb made from the bones of a small fish. Lacing her hair with petite lavendar flowers, she tucked the comb in as the finishing touch. "I came to see." he laughed softly as many crowded around him. Two took his hands, pulling him forwards as they giggled incessantly. "He made everything we could want, Puck! We've got more rooms and even a place to play!" "And a fountain!" another added cheerfully. "So I see." His eyes glanced around him and them quickly trying to take it all in. The walls were a pale green, warm and inviting. A bit of luminous mosses glowed around the ceiling, casting a pale blue glow downwards. Flickering firefly lamps cast a warm golden glow over exquisite couches and lounges vaguely reminiscent of those in Oberon's palace. Tiny flower shaped cups and saucers were filled with nectar and small fruity cakes that they liked so well. Trailing vines blossomed in a myriad of colors casting a punch of color throughout the area. He smiled widely as he let them coax him from room to room. As they tugged him to the balcony at the back, Puck stared in awe at the sight of the waterfall. The huge wall of water roared as it tumbled downwards into the basin below. Taj had put a great deal of thought into what had been created within his rooms. This palace had all the magic and charm of Oberon's palace. Perhaps more since it had been created just for them. Puck would have to make certain the god knew he appreciated it. Just as soon as he was finished looking around. There was still much to see.
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