Welcome to Gaia! ::

He was not at all certain where he was going. He simply was. Moonshadow paced alongside him while Yuri searched slightly ahead. Just because everything had been settled down for awhile did not mean that it was still safe. One of the men had been injured when something fell on him while they were searching. Everything was changing. The buildings that were in the immediate area were a bit more solid than the rest. But that was not saying much.

Carrying the two silver rings in his hands, he toyed with them as he walked. Tempest figured that if he found something made of iron, he could take it back to Eddard for the making of the new ones. And if he found nothing, then he would rely on whatever the man had to make them of. The silver rings still gleamed and though he really liked them, he knew that their purprose was for far less than what he needed them for. But these were so comfortable in his hands.

The man sighed, shaking his head. His thoughts were still on the magic he was supposed to be able to produce. Malh'reth had taught him a great deal, but how did he find it for himself? It was not happening quickly. That was for certain.

"Anything of interest, Yuri?" he asked as they walked further into the deadened area. The broken branches and waste of this area made him want to return to the lushness of the Pantheon. It seemed odd. He did not like gods and had not wanted to be around them, but when the demons appeared, all he could think about was getting to Joe and Jace. And Elana. He still puzzled in his mind how they got separated. One moment she was there behind him and the next she, Tor, and Sable were just gone.

When Taj was certain, he would ask him if they could go look for her. As he glanced around him, he wondered if anything was still living outside the green. Perhaps a straggler or two that had found some source of food and water just as Creation returned. It would have stopped it from disappearing, right? He was just unsure. Like usual.

*Nothing yet, Tempest. What exactly are we looking for?* the feline asked.

"I'm not sure. I'll know it when I see it." he replied, still walking forwards. Glancing back at Moon, he smiled. "Having fun, Moon?"

The second feline glanced upwards, almost shrugging. *It's as bad out here as it ever was, Tempest. I don't see much changing until He can do it. I mean everyone tries, but still, it's nothing like it was previously.*

"I don't think it ever will be, Moon." His voice was soft, but both felines knew he meant Eftemie. It still saddened him to think of her. Moon had said nothing of his visits to Lisana and if Tempest knew, he never mentioned it. Neither did they.

As they continued walking, Tempest glanced around them, a frown firmly set on his face. Yuri paced ahead, looking here and there for signs of whatever Tempest might use as well as enemies. Moonshadow investigated from behind. He had barely gone outside for some time but this day he just needed out.

It was then Yuri hesitated, sniffing the air, his tail suddenly twitching excitedly. The scent was familiar as it slid over his nostrils causing a stir that only she did. His wings unfolded and then lay back down as he took a step forwards into the fragrance wafting on the air.

Tempest stopped, tilting his head as he watched the feline. "What is it, Yuri?"

Moon's attention went immediately to his cousin. Then he caught the faint tremor of familiarity. *Can it be?*

Yuri turned, a wide smirk on his face. *It's her. It's Sable. I'm sure.* It had been awhile, but one did not forget the scent of one's mate. *There are several with her, but they appear to be friendly from what I can tell. No fear at least.* The feline moved excitedly. His mate had survived and was nearby.

Moving quickly, his tail and wings twitching, Yuri followed the smell before him. Once or twice it faded, but he picked it up again after a few steps. As the strength of it increased, his pace quickened.

Tempest laughed in amusement, but then a thought occurred to him. If Sable were found, then perhaps Elana was also. His own steps matched those of the felines who hurried forwards. Rings in hand, he forgot what he was doing. This was far more important and the magic could wait.

Well here they were! Elana's heart soared. She was certain this was the very city she had left Tempest in. It was hardly recognizable, though. Buidlings had crumbled, imploded, or merely smashed to one side or the other. Debris littered the streets, sometimes in such huge piles or chunks as to block their passage entirely. Their going was slow and cautious, for ominous rumbles still threatened collapse in some of the buildings they passed. Other areas seemed to have been somewhat cleared, showing the touch of those who cared about their homes and were still living to do something about it. Sadly, she saw many a patch of bare ground with mounds and crude headstones of broken concrete, sticks, or even a single board with a name scrawled on it. The sight threw shadows on her joy, but she stubbornly determined to believe her brother still lived, despite the amount of destruction visible.

She was leading Reesa, who was suffering Gogh to skitter about on her back atop the few packs she carried. Mostly it was the little bits of valuable things Verri brought that she carried, rather than any real supplies. Sure enough,they'd run out of water and the bit of dried meat about two days outside of town. Now that they were here, they had had better luck scavanging amongst the ruins, though sometimes the stench warned them to steer clear of some places. Even so, the pickings were slim, obviously already picked over by several others. It seemed as if Temmor suffered most from the lack of food, though. A picky eater to begin with, he fairly drooped now, carrying nearly nothing and letting his antlers hang so low as to almost scrape the ground. He'd gotten himself caught on things once or twice already, due to not watching where he was going. Soft-hearted Tor was pacing beside him now, helping him navigate away from similar dangers as they had originally found him in.

She patted Reesa on the neck, glancing aloft for Verri. He wasn't within sight, which hopefully meant he'd found something to hunt down, at least for himself. He was intelligent, for a bird, and never failed to bring back what he caught after he'd eaten enough for himself. She spared a proud glance around at her weary companions. They'd all worked together to get this far, and she was glad to have every one beside her.


Pallada and Dalork scurried and bounded among the ruins of the city like a pair of squirrels. They caled walls, leapt from beam to beam, and slipped through small spaces. They paused atop a teetering wall that twoered high enough to see for some distance. With a delighted hiss, Palla spotted which morsel she most desired. "There, that one. The fluffy little thing! It looks delicious!" Her tongue swiped across her fangs just before she launched herself from the walltop, causing the precarious thing to wobble. Dalork took time to catch his balance before leaping after her, calling out, "Save me one of those cats!"

She reached them first, of course, darting up out of nowhere and snatching up poor little Gogh inher clawed hands. The floox gave a terrified scream, seeing death in her eyes. Elana spun, a metal bar in hand already. After being caught defenseless in a previous attack, she had made sure she'd found a lightweight but sturdy bit of metal to carry with her at all times. She was no swordsman, so anything with a blade was foolish to carry. The bar, though, served well as a bat, and could do some decent damage with the right kind of hit. Dropping Reesa's reins, she grasped the bar in both hands and swung as hard as she could, connecting solidly with the demoness' shoulder.

With a cry of pain and outrage, Palla dropped the floox and turned on Elana, claws extended for her throat. Several things happened then in quick succession. Firstly, Tor leapt to Elana's side and stood, bristling and snarling at Palla. Secondly, both Sable and Makkar began to bound to help Elana as well. Thirdly, Dalork leapt out of the shadows, tackling Makkar in mid-stride. The two tumbled over heavily, knocking into Sable and throwing her to the ground.

For a moment all was still. Palla was poised to leap upon Elana in fury, regardless of the snarling bundle of muscle and fur that protected her. Dalork was perched atop Makkar, both glaring at each other with malice. Gogh was nowhere to be seen, and all the ruminates had frozen in place, eyes wild with fear. The surreal moment seemed to hang indefinitely, waiting for fate to take its course.

Excitement slipped through both felines as they rounded the debris. The scent was extremely strong now, but suddenly there were other smells in the air. Demon smells. Something that both Yuri and Moon were well familiar with. The barest glance at one another and they were running around and over the debris following quickly.

Tempest blinked and began running behind them. "What is it?" he asked but was ignored by both felines. Frowning he simply followed with the feeling that something was wrong trying to be ready for anything.

*Trouble.* Moon growled but never stopped.

But nothing prepared Tempest for what he saw. Two demons attacking a group. Then he recognized Tor and Sable. Blinking as he stared at the girl, Tempest suddenly realized it was his own sister though she was quite changed from when he had last seen her. The demon was going to attack her and he did the one thing he could think of. He tossed the rings at the demoness trying to distract her from her prey. As the rings flew forwards, he focused pulling his gun from his shoulder. They had to hit her.

But then even he was surprised as the rings glowed faintly when they left his hands. The magic when it came was not as he expected it. The silver circles gleamed as a sudden outpour of water slammed forwards and over the demoness before circling around and coming back at him like boomerangs. Surprised, he reached out to grasp them before leveling his gun at the creature sliding his hand through the centers. His hands shook slightly at what he had done but he had no time to investigate that now.

Yuri snarled, his wings suddenly carrying him over and into the male demon. Sable was at risk and his fangs and claws were bared as the feline slammed into the creature. Moonshadow moved towards Tor, keeping himself beside Tor. Sable struggled to get to her feet, her breath coming in short gasps, but the sight of Yuri froze her as excitement quivered through her entire body. Her mate was here.

Tempest leveled the gun. "I suggest that you think twice about your actions, demons." He cocked the gun. "I have no qualms about killing you at this point. Especially as that is MY sister you are about to attack."

This was defintely an unwelcome change of events. Palla wasn't entirely sure how she'd missed the presence of another demon. Her mate had taken it down, and all would have been fine if the others hadn't arrived. The water that hit her was painfully cold, hissing on her over-warm skin. She screeched in frustration, unable to fulfill her hunger. Outnumbered, she spun to lope away, making one last swipe at the floox who scurried from cover to run to Elana. The nimble little fluffy managed to avoid the talons, but only just barely. With threat of death on her heels, Palla didn't pause for another try. In moments she was gone, disappearing amongst the shattered buildings.

Dalork very nearly lost his sanity, if he had any to begin with, in a bloodrage when he saw a gun pointed at his mate. He threw off his assailant in a powerful surge, but by then Palla was already safely bounding away. Turning his incensed eyes on Tempest, he snarled what could only be a threat, then bounded after his unharmed mate. If he ever caught any of them alone, their blood would feed the both of them.


Elana bared her teeth right back at the demoness, but from nowhere two rings sang past her, curing around above she and the monstrosity, letting loose sprays of ultra cold water. She gasped in shock, taking a step back and trying not to let down her guard. What new attack was this?

Then a familiar shape threw itself at the other one, snarling fit to kill. Makkar sprang to his feet, torn between which demon to go after. Elana watched as Sable got to her feet, then froze. Breath catching fearfully in her throat, she pinned the female with her eyes, daring her to move towards them again. But the voice from behind her was entirely unexpected.

Even as Palla leapt away, Elana spun in place, gasping a cry and dropping the bar she'd held so tightly. She threw herself at her brother, abashed to find herself weeping. This was not the way she'd rehearsed in her mind of greeting her brother. Her intention had been to be cool, calm, confident... as nonchalant as possible, to prove how grown up and independant she was. All that went out the window when she heard his voice, though, and realized in her heart how afraid she'd been that he was dead. She clung to him, ignoring rings, gun, and everyone else, and sobbed with her face hidden against his shoulder.

The rest were baffled, or frozen with residual fear. Except perhaps Gogh, who was leaping about Elana and Tempest's feet, meeping excitedly. Tor, however, broke the spell as it sank in who had rescued them. Turning to Moon, he gave a great chuff-howl and reared up to paw kitten-like at his old friend. "We found you!" he crowed, waving his stump of a tail and fluttering his wings ecstatically. "We found you!"

Thrown off, Yuri landed on his feet, his wings folding back after having helped him keep his balance. The demons were long gone and though he wanted to go after them to prevent further harm, he did not. There was safety in numbers. For the moment he ignored Makkar as his scent was mixed with Elana's. That meant that she petted him. so instead he moved towards Sable. Grinning lopsidely, he sniffed her to be sure she was alright. *Sable... I was so worried.*

All she could think was that they were all together again. Sable pounced at Yuri, nearly knocking him down playfully, her tail twitching with excitement. She tugged on his ear, biting down lightly before letting go and rubbing up against his side, her own wings folded back out of the way. *Yuri, I missed you.*

*I would hope so.* he smirked, before nuzzling against her neck a moment. * We have a safe place waiting for all of you.*

As the demons disappeared, Tempest barely had time to lower his gun before Elana had thrown herself against him, rings jangling on his arm. "It's alright, Elana. I was so worried. We've been going out nearly every day between helping all the others." He touched her hair and pushed her back a moment. "You look so different I was not sure it was you at first." Then he wrapped his arms around her again. "I missed you so much and I'm sooo happy to see you."

Glancing around at the others, he laughed. The deer and others seemed rather skittish. He wondered if they could speak briefly as Yuri and the felines did. "I guess we came at the right time. Tor, Sable, I'm glad you are alright. As for the water.. sorry about that, little sister. I didn't quite expect it to come out that way. I guess Taj isn't off his rocker at all." He mused thoughtfully for a moment. "First things first. While you introduce yourselves, I'll see if I can get you some water and food. I should be able to do something if I focus properly. It will take awhile to get back to the Pantheon and all of you look hungry. Not sure what I can create but, I'll do my best. It's green there again, Elana. Green."

Tempest was suddenly excited. His magic worked. He had true magic and could pull something from nothing. Taking his rings in hand, he stood next to a tree stump that seemed just made for a table. Glancing around, he said, "I suppose it would be best if I just create a few cups of water and then some bread or cheese. Will that do?"

Moonshadow smiled lopsidely and playfully pawed at Tor. *It's good we found you too!* he purred. *You'd not believe the things that have happened. Those two were nothing to what we've had to take care of. Tempest, is that what you were looking for?* The feline spoke of the magic that made the water appear. He did not understand it, but he was sure something of enormity had occurred.

As the others began to chatter and introduce themselves, Elana followed her brotehr to the stump. She glanced about uneasily. It had been an extremely long and hard road, and it made her feel wrong to stop when he said safety was nearby. She lightly laid a hand on his shoulder, coming around to peek at what he was doing.

His magic distracted her as she connected the dots that hadn't seemed connected before. The water... he had done it! Her gaze at him was both astonished and wary. He hadn't... had he? "Tempest, you aren't... well... like Efte now... are you?" Her dismay and worry tinged her voice. For her, that would be the end of her world. She had noone else but him. That wasn't entirely true, of course. She'd made a new family on her trek across the countryside. But him, he was different than anyone else she could meet. He was her brother, and the very thought of losing him like they had lost Efte was unbearable.

He listened nodding as everyone introduced themselves and spoke to Yuri and Moonshadow, both of which were not keeping an eye on things around them. Tempest almost lost his focus at her words, but garnered it quickly, causing the cups to appear.

"No. I'm not like Efte. I do live with Mystery though. This is.. " he ran a hand through his hair. "I think I know why Dad never wanted me to do this. I'll explain later but this is true magic, Elana. I was trying to figure this out, but right now I need to focus on getting you some food since I imagine it's been awhile since you had anything decent."

Tempest glanced around at the others. "Come get the water and I'll see about getting some fruit or bread or something." He wiped a bit of sweat from his brow, excitement still slipping through him. He knew what to do to get it to do as he wished and a small shiver ran through him. This was what he had always looked for.

As the others came close, Fera taking care to bring some first to the hooved companions, Elana fiddled with the end of the one red braid she had left, a slender one in front of her right ear. Her uneasiness did not subside, and with everyone crowding around for water, she felt somewhat vulnerable, rather than protected. Their attention was here, rather than out there. Softly but urgently, she tugged at her brother's forearm. "Tempest, I really don't want to stay here any longer. It isn't safe."

Prickles ran down her spine as if she were being stared at by some unseen perdator. She gave an inward shiver and tugged once more on his forearm. "Let's eat at this green, safe place you told us about. Is it far?" She resisted the urge to look over her shoulder, left and right, like some paranoid idiot. If there was shelter and sanctuary somewhere near, why dally here in the open? "Please," she murmured, meeting his eyes with her own. Though her words were soft, her gaze was insistent. She wanted to go. Now.

As they crowded round, Tempest stepped back slightly to make room. A quick glance at Yuri and Moon caused him to frown. They were not paying attention.

For a moment he watched the others. The brownish creature stood nervously watching everything wide eyed. But she also watched around behind her constantly moving as if she like Elana too felt the unsafety of this place all too closely.

"Alright, Elana. There is plenty of room with Taj for those that want protection. It is not far now."

As soon as they finished the water he had provided, Tempest motioned everyone forwards. Yuri and Moon were at the rear of the grouping. They began making their way through the remnants of what once was helping each other as they moved closer and closer to their goal. The Pantheon stood gleaming in the open surrounded by greenery as they rounded the final area of blockage.

The tops of the teahouses could barely be seen, but there were people moving about here and there in the distance. Sable gasped in delight when she saw it.

*It really is green here.* It reminded her of how it once was. The air was delightfully warm and the fragrance of flowers filled it. No sky was still present but everyone was safe here. At least it seemed so.

Tempest turned to Elana as they moved nearer the Pantheon itself. "Do you want to go inside or talk out here. It's safe here. There is a corridor with rooms for mortals inside as well as doors leading to the gods' suites. The teahouses provide but so do we. It takes all of us to rebuild.

He grinned slightly, shrugging. "Do you know how long I've been looking for you?" His arms slipped around Elana tightly again. "I was so afraid that I had lost you. And I'm so glad you are here. I don't think I could stand to lose someone again." Tempest's eyes were overbright as he hugged his sister to him. She was safe and that's all that mattered to him.

Tempest nodded. "All of you come with me. The deer and horses can also. Taj's rooms have gardens in them. If they'd feel safer, but then Lisana.. has several horses around the area also." The barest hesitation when he said her name. It was getting easier to shut those feelings down now that he had other things.

"A few weeks ago this place was as everything else was. Creation has returned and with him comes life." Tempest explained as he moved to take one of the packs his sister was carrying. "It is not over yet. The cause for his near loss, but..."

The crow dropped directly down in front of Tempest. He had been flying overhead when he noted them moving into the area. With a grin he shifted. "Tempest, Taj wants you to meet Touran tomorrow and practice enchantments if the man has time."

"Alright, Saljin. By the way, this is my sister Elana and her friends. And there are two nasty demons out there. Hasheem needs to keep an eye out for them." He frowned thinking about the earlier event.

"I'll tell him." Bowing to Elana and the others, he said, "It's very nice to meet all of you. I'll speak to Hasheem then and make sure he and his men know." His violet eyes narrowed as he turned towards the direction they had come. "I'll fly overhead and see if I can spot anything. It would not do for them cause trouble now when everything is finally getting back on track. I remember the trouble Trell caused and I look for him to show up sooner or later. But make sure they understand about the oni."

Bowing to them all, he shifted to crow shape on the upswing. Soon he was out of sight.

"Saljin is a good friend of Taj's and his host before him, Jaster. He's a shapeshifter, and someone you can count on if you need help. I trust him." Tempest stated as he turned back towards the Pantheon door. Opening it, he indicated the stairs nearby. "Up there. The rooms are along the hallway there. I'll have to show you Taj's. There's a trick to it."

In the upper hallway, he grinned as he opened the door to reveal an attic. Shutting it, he opened it once more and the entrance revealed the true rooms of Mystery. "Twice gets you in. Taj has his secrets."

First Floor

The entrance opened up with an immediate archway to the right. The garden beyond was filled with small musical voices lifted in laughter as the fairies flew round the area and the air was filled with a soft sweet spicey fragrance from the flowers that grew in various places. Rasmus and Mirshu were both standing near the doorway to the audience room discussing the duties they had been given. Both glanced up at the group walking inside, simply nodding to Tempest before turning back to one another.

Seven rooms were empty yet. Even the creatures were welcome to live within Taj's garden. They would find whatever food they needed within or without, but there was plenty of water here at least from the waterfalls. They could explore later when they wanted to and Tempest was certain that Elana would want to see what books there were, but for now he moved them towards the empty rooms next to his.

(( OOC... Tempest is next to Puck though he's not on the map yet. That leaves 7 rooms open. Feel free to furnish the rooms as you see fit... ))

His arms slipped around her, pulling her against him. "It was rough, wasn't it?" He kissed the top of her head, simply enjoying the ability to hold her again. A brief moment made him think of their father, but if the man survived, he had not seen him. And he did not really want to.

"So much has changed. Frightening and exciting at the same time." he mused. "Some days I didn't even want to get up. Other days I was just so angry I wanted to lash out at everyone. Taj is not as you expect, Elana. He's not like some of the other gods. He does expect us to help one another, but he does not tell us what to do other than trying to guide. I feel better here with him than I've felt in a very long time. But there is something you need to know."

He turned her chin towards him, gazing into her eyes. She was tired but he needed to get this out while he was thinking about it. "The ability that I have for magic, true magic, is something that I suspect I inherited. Saljin said that centuries ago it was feared and hidden because only the rare humans possessed such gifts. I wonder if that is not why our father was so upset when I wanted to become a magician. He knew stories of our family or something else. I'm fairly sure now. But if I have this ability, you may also have some sort of gift. Do not be afraid of it. It may very well help you and others out. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise."

A grin split his face as he hugged her to him again. "Lecture over. Are you hungry? I'll go to the kitchen and get you something. And tell Triq and the others that you are here. And see if Taj will make time for tomorrow."

Her dark eyes sparkling, Mi'shala giggled as the water dropped down on her sister who began grumbling. "Mi!" Li'ena grumbled. "Stop it with the pranks!" The brim of her hat was now sagging again. She hated getting wet in such a way.

"Loosen up, Li'ena. It was just a little water!" she giggled again. "I could have put syrup in it and made you a sticky mess."

The older sister glared, then darted towards the younger whose eyes went wide as she moved quickly away. Looking back over her shoulder, she giggled as she led her sister on a merry chase with the other fairies watching and laughing. Aly'strya tumbled off the mushroom she was sitting into the pool of water below. She sighed, but giggled more. Now she was wet also.

Mi snickered as she darted around the nearby tree, but then blinked when she realized there was someone in front of her. She slammed directly into this person, bouncing back into the air. Her wings fluttered as she tried to keep herself aloft. Stopping, Li smirked, folding her arms. "Maybe you should watch where you are going, Mi."

"Sure. You can come. You should know where it's at anyhow. Breakfast will be there in the morning. This is a big place. Easy to get lost." Tempest stated, waiting with the door open. Pointing to the left he added, "The library is that way and the front door. It's rather large but this one is Taj's personal library. The main library is elsewhere. I've not see it yet."

They followed the curving path around to where the tables were placed against the large open area that led out into the garden. Curtains were tied back, more for decoration than anything. They were seldom closed. The sound of the waterfall could be easily heard though it was quieter with the distance.

Triq glanced over at the sound of the footsteps. "Hello, Tempest." She asked, smiling as she turned to Elana. "I"m Excentrique or Triq as most call me."

"This is my sister, Elana." Tempest replied, smiling faintly. "Triq is one of the aoidei that live here."

"Oh! Then you finally found her! I'm so glad!" Her voice was excited knowing that the man had been going out for months on end trying to figure out where she was or if anyone had seen her. "There's some tea, fruit, cheese, and various other things ready to eat. Let me fix you a plate. Have you shown her around?"

Delphine walked from the pantry from where she had been checking supplies. "I'll get her something, Triq." She smiled softly. "I'm Delphine, Elana. What would you like to eat? We have some apples, strawberries, several varieties of vegetables. I even have a pot of soup ready to eat right now. And there are fresh rolls and cheese. Tempest, if you get a chance tomorrow, we will need more flour, nuts, and vegetables. Get with Shad'era and see what you can do."

"Not everywhere yet. Rasmus and Mirshu were at the front door when we came in. Some already scattered into Taj's gardens. Others are outside." Tempest replied. "I can do that, Delphine. It will probably be late in the afternoon though. I need to see Touran first about the enchanting."

"Hm... Taj mentioned something about building a stables so that Lisana's horses and some of the other creatures would have a place of protection." the aoide babbled as she set a pot of tea on the counter. "Have a seat." Pouring each a cup of tea, she pushed them forwards.

Tempest barely flinched at the name but preferred to ignore it even being said. Patting Elana's shoulder, he indicated the seat beside him. "Yes, there were some deer and another horse with Elana. They would probably feel safer. Hopefully they will curl up with Aridai and Rorie and the rest against the Pantheon until we can do that. I'll mention it to Joe." Turning to Elana, he said, "Joe's here, but Jace.. I didn't get to him in time. The demons were pretty rough then."

Tempest slid his arms around Elana, just holding her close. It hurt that Jace was gone, but she was back. And that was all he could stand to see at the moment. "I'm glad we are too, Elana. I was so worried about you. And Jace would have been happy just knowing he protected Joe from harm. That's when I ran into Taj and his friend Saljin. There were some demons chasing us and we'd never have made it if not for them. They never hesitated, Elana. He jumped right into protecting us without question. It's why I try to do as much as I can to help him."

"It wasn't long after that we cleaned out the demons in this area. We went in with guns and a few other things to trap them and drive them away. But it's safe here. Safer than anywhere else so long as you don't stray from the Pantheon's green. There's still much upset in this universe. They work to return the sky and as much of what was lost as they can."

He sighed, just letting her lean against him. "Nothing will be the same, but we can still have a life here. We are together. I will be honest. I thought about father, but I doubt he has survived. I'm not going looking. That may seem cold but I'm not putting anyone I know at risk to go specifically looking for him. His presence here would not be good I think. Is it wrong of me to feel that way?" Tempest was not sure, but he really did not care if the man was dead. He had been cold in a way no father should be.

The supplies had been gathered over the last few days and were stacking up higher than they had previously thought. Remnants of equipment that Joe had once used were now scrap but usable if broken down to molten metal. It almost hurt to see the things he had once cherished so decayed, but the man moved past such. No time to dwell on the past when the future needed help.

Glancing over as Saljin and Taj arrived, he grinned slightly. At one time he had wondered what the gods of domains other than Laughter would be like. Some he found he liked very well. Taj and Eid being two of those. Fashad and his group of seven baadrites moved to the side to await instructions on what was needed. They had been helping all along finding supplies, building, and doing what needed done. The supplies were there, the forges ready, both glass and metal, so too were the smelters, anvils, and bellows. Racks had even been built from what they could find to store the finished weaponry on while they waited on enchantment. A table had even been included upon which to wrap pommels complete with two old vises that had been found still serviceable.

Touran and Tempest were standing quietly talking of the magic they would use to strengthen the weaponry. It was not much but it would help. The test piece that had been done was still strong but both wondered if such would hold up to the grigori. But even beyond that, much of this world and others still needed to be reclaimed. For that they needed weapons that kept them safe.

His silver rings were hanging from his belt, but for this, Tempest knew he did not truly need them. Besides if they needed water, he could do that with the rings. This enchanting was about focus on something already made. His enchantments- he had no other word for them that made sense- were not the strongest but he had paid close attention to what Touran had taught him. He could decently create a strength enchantment that would settle over a metal blade. More than that, he was unsure. Right now they only cared that the weapons did not break when attacking something or someone. Other enchantments would have to be done by power greater than theirs.

Taj moved forwards with Saljin at his side. Both wore the oldest clothing they could find. Mystery was quite certain it would be ruined before the day was out. Looking around he grinned faintly. They had done well in creating all this. He glanced around for Eid and Karaskis, his wings folding back out of the way.

Eddard entered the smithy with two large graphite molds, a total of four large slab like pieces that he had completed the evening prior. Normally, crafting such a thing would take days, if not weeks, but as per the usual, his great strength served to vastly hasten the process of boring out and forming arrowhead cavities in the slabs of carbon. Myles trailed behind him, carrying a heavy bag full of extra smith's tools and a few containers Eddard crafted from the extra graphite to handle and pour the molten glass. Eddard wasn't sure if these graphite pieces would be used in the crafting of the glass blades, but they would most assuredly serve in the arrowhead production.

Taking the heavy pack from Myles back, Eddard effortlessly sat it on the floor much to the boy's relief. "Go check on the blister steel rods you've been making, tell me what you think and then I'll be over to check your work. If we both agree that they are ready, we'll pull them out back to cool." Myles obediently nodded and then did as told, giving the other folks present a quick greeting before heading over to check on the steel in the lower compartment of the blast furnace.

He turned to Tajnevaki and Saljin, glad to see them. He extended his hand shaking each of theirs, "I'm glad both of you could make it out. I've been looking forward to this since we first sat out to build the smithy. If memory serves me right, you'll be swinging the hammer, right?" he asked, indicating Saljin with a nod.

Karaskis moved down the hall toward the Smithy, in preparation for what they would be doing the goddess wore a simple white tank top and work pants. The cut of the garments were quite different then what Cinder once wore, mostly because they weren't made for space travel and because they had been created by the tailors living among the mortals - functional and comfortable. She had donned Cinder's boots, the grav-lock boots had fared well through the almost end of the world.

Walking behind Karaskis was Simon the savant had been drafted for weapon enchanting. More then a little different then the power he was use to channeling but Karaskis believed he'd take to it well.

As the two arrived she offered a smile to those present, "hello, have everything gathered up that your going to need?"

Simon moved over to the side listening to the others and taking in each thoughtfully.

Saljin grinned slightly. "I'll do my best. It's been awhile but it should come back after swinging the hammer a few times." He shrugged in amusement. "Though I still remember how to swing a hammer."

Taj glanced at the molds and how everything was set up. They should have everything they needed at this moment. He noted several stones that would work for sharpening also and wondered briefly about making the glass sharp. Hopefully a way had been figured out for that also.

Mystery's eyes turned appreciatively to Karaskis, winking, before glancing back at Eid with a faint grin. Holding out the pad, he wrote

Tempest and Touran were talking together quietly. "I'll follow your lead on this, Touran. You've enchanted before and I'm just learning to control my magic. Although I will summon up some cold water later for everyone. Iced if I'm not too tired." His rings hung from a loop on his belt. For this, the silver circles were not necessary, but he had wanted them with him.

Both men watched Simon a moment. Touran nodded, more as an indication that the man had power than simply in acknowledgment. With Tempest and this other, they should get quite a bit done this day.

Eddard gave a nod to Karaskis as she entered. It had been awhile since he had seen the goddess and he had fond memories of the host who had taken them all to space to track down pieces of the consort. In response to her query he said, "We do now that you are here. The furnace gets hot enough to melt ore and produce steel, but glass takes about four times as much heat. I'm certain the furnace can take it because of the material I insulated it with, we just don't have anything that burns hot enough."

As he walked over to a barrel full of steel rods he began to put on thick leather gloves. "Well Saljin, I'll run us through a demo real quick and pound out a shortsword. Won't take long at all. We'll just jump on in and get our feet wet" Pulling his tongs from his belt he clasped two of the rods and took them over to the furnace, placing them in the top compartment of the furnace until they were white hot. "Myles, in the meantime, can you stoke the forge?" The boy did as told, not even mentioning that what he thought was completed steel in the bottom compartment of the furnace could probably be removed to cool.

"So were working with blister steel. The terminology doesn't matter so much, it derives it name from the means in which I combine coal with iron. Normally, we won't use the furnace the way I am, but it is hotter than the forge is right now." Taking the glowing rods over to an anvil he began to pound them into a single piece, turning them as he went as to prevent it from flattening and also reheating them in the furnace here and there while Myles continued to heat the forge.

Eddard worked quickly, his strength combining the rods quickly. Once he had them together in a single form, he looked up to those around him, "Questions, concerns before I start folding to strengthen the steel?"

Karaskis inclined her head over to Touran before glancing over to Simon, "A student for you."

Stepping over toward the older enchanter Simon paused and offered a quick bow, "I am told I may have an affinity for this and was asked to help if I am able. I would like to learn if you will teach me."


Karaskis smiled slightly to each before moving closer to the furnace, the heat likely blistering to the others felt soothing to her, though she was careful not to get too close as her current form wouldn't be able to handle the full intensity of the open flame. "Just tell me where you want me to start. I'll get working on the fires while you start on your demonstration. I don't think I'd be very good actually working on a forge."

((sorry I spaced on posting here x.x with the holiday over I should be quicker))

Saljin nodded, listening as he watched. It was slowly coming back to him. The working in the forge with his father was something he would never entirely forget. Once the forge itself was hot enough, it would be very close to what he had once worked with. "No, keep going."

Taj watched in interest as he was new to doing such. Following what Eddard did now though would be no trouble and the heat felt good in truth. He would have to be sure to keep his tail and wings out of the way to prevent them getting scorched though. Glancing quickly over to a couple of the Baadrites, he saw that some were standing at a couple old vises, readying strips of fabric and leather to wrap the hilts with. Turning his attention back to Eddard, he shook his head. He had no questions but was certain he would be able to do as needed. Eddard could always check his work.

Touran nodded to Karaskis before turning to Simon. "It takes focus more than anything. And you have to have the ability to use magic. Tempest just recently learned he has the gift. We can practice on these for the moment. I can negate an enchant that you put on it so that it can be reused until you understand what you are doing."

Turning to the table behind him, he motioned both men forwards. Focusing he drew a bit of mana into the air over one of the small glass knives on the table. "Each type of material reacts differently. Glass will sometimes refuse the enchant while wood or leather or even metal will soak it up quickly. But there are occasions where the natural energy of the material itself will refuse and make it harder. You are lacing something extra into what is already there."

"Focus and shape the rune from the mana you pull forth. Then slowly drop it over the item." Touran let the rune shape in the space before his fingers. When he was satisfied, he motioned with his fingers allowing it to slip lower and over the knife. The glass gleamed faintly reflecting the rune as it refused but then was absorbed by the natural mana of the glass. A faint smile slipped over Touran's face as he indicated the drawings in front of him. "Those are the runic shapes that you need to strengthen. Both work, but the larger and more mana pulled into them, the stronger they are when placed on an item. Do you both understand?"

Tempest nodded. "I got it, but I think a few practice ones will help."

"Quality over speed. You will get naturally faster." the man stated as he pushed a few other things in front of them to try. Some were wood, some metal, some glass. "Try each type of material so that you get the feel of the resistance you will meet."

Eddard nodded to Karaskis, "As soon as the forge is hot enough for us to use and pull the blister steel out of the lower chamber, you can start heating the furnace."

Reminded of the blister steel, he turned to Myles who was already dripping with sweat from pumping the bellows, "Speaking of the steel, what did you think of it, Myles?"

Wiping the sweat from his brow with his elbow, Myles responded, "I think its finished, when I'm done with the forge, I'll pull a sample for you to inspect."

"Very well."

Eddard returned to the task at hand, folding the metal with tongs and hammer, followed by pounding the folded metal halves into a single piece once more. He repeated this process over and over explaining that this would increase the metal's natural flexibility without sacrificing any of the hardness needed to hold a sharp edge while also removing any remaining impurities. "Arguably the best sword smiths from my home world were reputed for folding their steel a thousand times or more for the best weapons. That number is likely greatly exaggerated in most instances for the average smith, as strong as he may be does not fold steel as easily as me, but I'm certain that's something you remember, Saljin. Also, in many different cases, additional alloys could be added to bestow additional characteristics but we have limited materials at this point. Soon enough...soon enough," he trailed off, briefly entranced by his craft.

Karaskis nodded simply, moving back curiously she watched them start their smithing. She herself had never had need to learn such a craft, but had long ago had her own smiths to make whatever she had need of. It had been such a long time ago but still was of interest to her, her gaze shifting over the metal as the work began.

Simon watched the enchanter carefully as he explained, "it may take me some tries to see if I will be able to do this. My abilities are more based on the mental then anything else." Listening carefully Simon cleared his mind paying close attention to what the older man said.

As they spoke of the various materials Simon let his mind move forward touching them, and in his meditative state for a moment he was the wood, the steel, and the glass. Feeling and being one with the materials he then pulled his mind to a restful state, attempting to understand their use of mana. Teachings from his youth came back and he allowed them to continue on a moment.

An adept does not meddle with the movement of the universe but moves with it.

His old teacher's words came back to him as he reached his hand forward, and manipulated the cords of the universe. He had always seen them, observed them but never touched...and now for the first time he was. A feeling of exhilaration over came him...but a touch of shame surrounded it. Glancing down he left the feel of the power settle so he could come accustom to touching and weaving the mana. He was so ordered by the goddess so he would continue and do what he must to aid.

Saljin carefully watched Eddard. It slowly came back to him. Not simply the method but also the backbreaking work of it. With a bit of fondness the shifter remembered the times spent with his father and the forge master on their estate. Just because he was a lord's son did not mean he was excluded from knowing and understanding such things. His father perhaps enforced it more so that he knew what his people needed and were doing as much as that they were doing it properly.

"I remember much of what we did, Eddard. My father was one who felt that hands on made one understand the job of the other person. A lord's son was not exempt in his eyes anymore than a commoner's son." A grin split his face at the thought. "And if you complained you got twice as much. Few ever complained a second time."

Touran was listening slightly. "That is one reason for the enchants. It will allow for more strength to prevent damage with a bit less time. Folding metal 1000 times is all well and good for an artist, but few have such time to spend on the blades now. Perhaps one day when this is over."

Taj nodded in amusement. Today he was going to assist to watch so that he knew what he was doing before he began hammering out anything. Hilts he knew because of the wood and wrapping. That would be easy enough once some were ready. Until then he was Saljin's squire.

Touran nodded to Simon and to Tempest as they began to focus their magic. It had been some time since he had students with power as these two did. He would enjoy helping them gain control over this and their ability more.

Tempest focused just as he had been doing. Still the rings hung untouched from his belt as he pulled the mana to him. Reaching out he began to shape the symbol he knew was necessary. The lines of power flowed easily for a moment as he pulled more to strengthen it. Suddenly a rush of mana came too fast and he overcompensated his control. The shape flashed and then dissipated in the air before him causing a sigh to slip out.

"Too much too fast, Tempest." Touran reminded.

"Yes, it was unexpected." he replied, then began again. "I pulled too hard." The second try began to shape in the air before him tugging his focus back and away from the man though Tempest could hear his soft words in the background. Words of encouragement. A ghost of a smile slipped across his face. The symbol formed fully, glowing and he guided it downwards letting it drop over the wooden carving. Then if vanished absorbed into the wood but Tempest could still see a faint shine to it. He wondered if he was the only one who could see it other than perhaps Touran and Simon.

"Your father must have been a fair and honorable man, Saljin, for far to many in various aristocracies would look down on tasks beneath their station. He must have been cherished and appreciated, not only by you, but his subjects as well. Is he still alive? Did he make it through Gehenna?" Eddard asked curiously as he continued to demonstrate his skill. Surely a man of such caliber would be invaluable if still lucky enough to live.

When the forge became hot enough, Myles approached Karaskis politely and bowed low, a little unsure of how he should address her. "Lady Karaskis, the forge is hot enough. If you'd like, you can begin heating the top cavity of the furnace. I have little shards of glass Eddard has given me. He said that if I set them in the furnace and wait till they melt, we'd know that the heat has reached the necessary temperature. Then he can begin melting glass for the arrow head molds." He held his bow awkwardly, awaiting her response.

Overhearing Myles, Eddard added. "i've gone over the process with you enough, Myles, you can probably handle it yourself, its not complicated. You just need to be careful when handling the granite bowls with the tongs when transferring the molten glass in the furnace to the molds. If you're unsure of yourself, I can lend assistance but until then you have my confidence."

"Thank you, Sir," Myles responded gratefully, his esteem growing a little.

Simon looked over noting the rune, reaching out with his sense he gained understanding over what it was doing. The rune was an anchor for the enchantments, now that he had seen another do it Simon reached and pulled at the power ... the mana. Pulling it he faltered a moment letting it go fully before attempting again to slowly pull it over a bit of practice wood he let it slowly slip over the material. Before it could slip away he created a rune to anchor it. Nodding slightly he glanced to the other two, wood had been his first element to do a mental mind meld with the other materials he realized he would likely have a bit more difficulty with. Flexing his hand Simon glanced down to it, the touch of power was still fresh on his fingertips with a slight frown the adept flexed his fingers until the feeling passed.


At Eddard's words Karaskis nodded and turned her attention to the forge, "I'll get started then. Once it's hot enough we can work on regulating it," smiling she glanced over to Myles, "I'll let you know when I'm ready for you to test the first piece of glass." Her attention then turned to the fire, stepping up closer to the furnace she was close enough that for most people it would be very uncomfortable pushing aside the reserves left by Cinder's human side she reached out with her power to the flames. She wavered a moment at the intensity of them, but then stilled her mind - the flames were hers and she would not allow such to overcome her control. Once she was centered more Karaskis started to pour her power into the flames, warming the already hot fire she let herself become immersed in her element.

"No. He is not alive. He died over a century ago. I'm older than I look." Saljin laughed, then stated as he glanced down at his hand. "My own longevity is due to this marking. A curse that another placed upon me and resulted in my apparent immortality. I still remember. That's all that is necessary." A grin crossed his face as he watched closely each movement Eddard made. The memories came back easily as they were some of the fondest he carried with him. It was time spent with his father.

Moving towards another anvil, the shifter picked up the hammer and tongs that were there waiting for him. "We might as well get started, Taj. I remember most of this and with Eddard inspecting my work, we should be alright to start." Picking up the molten metal, he began hammering it just as his father had taught him. Both rough weapons and the best had been made in his father's smithy. For now the rough skills would do. They would all get better at it with time, but now they needed blades.

Taj nodded moving towards Saljin. For now he would help and watch since he had only done this minorly as Jaster. The memories were there but not the control and when he felt comfortable, he would begin letting some of the Baadrites aid him instead.

Tempest smiled as he watched Simon. "Touran, are you able to see the sheen afterwards? I was just curious if I was the only one who can see the rune there. Or is this simply because I am the one who cast it?"

Touran nodded. "I can see it. Most of those who can enchant can see the enchantments also. It takes an enchanter to break it. That's why I said that you could practice on these pieces." He focused, reaching out to touch the rune on the piece in front of Saljin. The rune gleamed and then shattered. "It takes a bit of focus to do that just it did to place it, but instead of setting it, you are disrupting it."

The older enchanter watched both Simon and Tempest. "You both have a great deal of power. Learn to use it to your advantage. Practice both placing and breaking the runes. Each will give you more control over your gifts." They were both now started on the way to what would give them more. It was simply up to them to choose how, where, and when to use it.

Once Saljin and Tajnevaki started working on their own pieces Eddard picked up his pace, placing more strength behind his swing, shaping the metal. "The mark seems to be a blessing, if not for you then the one you serve. It grants you the strength and longevity needed to aid Tajnevaki in any of his endeavors and will allow you to do so for a long time to come."

A few more minutes of work brought Eddard's blade to completion. Dipping the blade in a barrel of water, it hissed as it gave off steam and cooled. Eddard then hung the blade up from one of the many rafter hooks he had made and nailed in himself w/ the aid of Joe, Lisana's host's uncle. Later, he would do a reheating of the surface of the blade which would cause the Surface tension of the blade to smooth out any minor imperfections in preparation for its first sharpening.

Noting that Myles was occupied, enveloped in Karaskis use of her power, Eddard went around to the backside of the furnace. Wearing heavy leather gloves that extended up to his elbows, Eddard pulled out the lower compartment of the furnace. Taking the small test plate out with tongs, he dipped it in the water barrel and then began to tap on it w/ a small hammer while holding it up to his ear. Hearing the ring of metal in each tap, Eddard was very satisfied with Myles first batch of blister steel. The boy hadn't taken readily to the hammer and anvil as he had when he was the boy's age, but this metal was superb. Perhaps this would be Myles' contribution to their efforts. He would be sure to praise him later. Dragging the large compartment out the back double door, Eddard set it out back so that the blister steel could cool slowly, a process that could take more than week or even longer had the batch been bigger.

Eddard returned to his anvil and sat to work pounding out short swords, answering any questions that Tajnevaki, Saljin, or Karaskis might have. In the meantime, Myles stood by with his glass bits ready for whenever Karaskis might give him the word.

Simon gave a small nod looking back to the materials they had, "breaking the enchantments...much harder to break the enchantments of others then my own I am guessing." He'd seen his master shatter the power of another and was guessing it was something similar.

Shifting his gaze down to the newly enchanted piece of wood he took to mind Touma's words and attempted to break the enchantment. Pushing his will toward the rune as he had been taught by his master, Simon not only broke the enchantment but as he did there was a sickening crack and the block of wood cracked down the middle. Wincing the savant looked sheepish clearing his throat a little as he glanced over at the others, "a bit too much that time..."


Karaskis kept her concentration on the fire, to had become an inferno in her mind as she willed the heat to grow. The flames within her eyes swirled as she watched the furnace part of her wanting to reach out and embrace the fire to dance and become one with her element. The goddess kept herself restrained as she worked with her element, out of the elemental deities her element was actually dangerous to her until she grew more in her power.

Blinking her eyes a few times after a fair bit of time she shifted her weight looking over toward Myles, "that should do it." Smiling she stepped back slightly, the heat now was blistering - the fires to her were comforting but she was sure that they would start becoming uncomfortable for the others soon.

"In some ways it's a blessing and in others it is not. I am afraid that Zrath still lives and is still searching for me and a way to use me. Jaster and I barely got free of them. But there are more here now that will put an end to him when necessary." He continued working but glanced over at Taj who grinned and nodded. One day they would take care of the sorcerer and his black cult.

When he was finished, Saljin hung the blade near where Eddard had hung his. It could be finished up later and the imperfections removed before sharpening and enchanting. A quick glance over at Tempest and he was back working on another blade with Taj beside him preparing the next piece of metal.

Taj watched Karaskis and Myles for a few moments. They seemed to have the fire well in hand. She was the only one not sweating from the heat and he realized that they were all going to be filthy and feeling the work of the day. It amused him slightly although he knew it would be a pain getting his wings cleaned. Good thing he had a large bath in his rooms.

Tempest watched Simon for a moment and then chuckled when the wood cracked. "It happens, Simon. I'm sure both of us will get better at it before the week is over." He glanced over to where the new swords now hung.

"As soon as they get the blades finished, we can start working on enchanting them. Most likely tomorrow, I think." Touran stated as he caught Tempest's gaze. "Those need smoothed and sharpened yet before we touch them."

He nodded, turning back to the piece of wood in front of him. Time to focus on enchanting again. "Are there enchantments for other things besides strength, Touran?"

"I'm not sure, Tempest. There were once, but unless the gods remember, I'm sure we have forgotten. The strength enchant from Baadris was a necessity for us with the glass blades and such, but I'm not sure what other cultures might have had. It might be worth looking into." Perhaps one of them should seek out the library and ask. He should mention it.

"Indeed there are," Eddard stated, agreeing with Saljin.

Myles picked up a pair of tongs that were hanging near the furnace, and while clasping a glass cone with said tongs, placed the cone in the middle ofthe furnace chamber. Dabbing the sweat from his brow away as he watched on, the cone glistened and then began to bend over as it brightened red hot. In another moment it was liquid. "Astounding, Karaskis, I've never seen glass do that before. I mean Eddard told me it would happen, I guess a part of me just didn't think it would actually happen," Myles commented.

"I'd never just make anything up, Myles. Though I've never actually worked with glass, I've seen it done a number of times though it was usually blown. Luckily, Barlo, my old teacher, taught me how to work with molds, and a knocker jeweler told me that molding glass in the fashion we are going to try was indeed possible. This first batch might not turn out, but that why were using shattered glass from the windows of destroyed building before we jump into anything produced by the Baadrites. I want to get the procedure down before we use any of their glass." Eddard held the blade up he was working on to inspect it closely before placing it down to be hammered more.

"Oh I know, Eddard, but I'm still surprised. So whats next?"

"You and Karaskis can fill up 9 of the granite bowls with glass shards and place them in the furnace. When the glass has all melted, carefully pour the molten glass into the arrowhead mold. We'll let them set a day and check on them tomorrow. I'm not sure how long it will take to cool. If we open it prematurely, we will ruin that batch but not to worry, we'll start again and then let it set for two days before opening it."

"Yes, sir." Fumbling through the bag containing the granite tools he and Eddard brought, Myles pulled out nine granite bowls and handed some of them to Karaskis. "Over here is the barrel of salvaged glass," he told her crossing the room. "Be careful not to cut yourself," he warned, not entirely sure of himself. Surely gods don't get cut.

Tempest watched Touran and Simon as he continued casting enchants on various pieces. Each time Touran would remove them so that they could try again.

"Perhaps those enchantments could still be used, Simon. What were they? I've seen others but some were those I was not capable of making on Baadris. It was rare for someone to create other than they had been taught. Much of the things ancient there were lost or under control of the sultan. It was not something I had access to." Touran explained as he wiped a bit of sweat from his forehead.

"And yes, glass is far trickier. You must be careful not to make even the slightest crack in it. Or it will shatter too easily inspite of the enchantments to make it stronger." he added.

Tempest nodded. "I might take a small piece of wood, metal, and glass with me to practice on tonight. And to see if I can break them myself. It can only make it stronger for us. And I've a bit of conjuring to do for the supplies tonight."

He glanced over at Taj to see the god intently working on a piece as was Saljin and Eid. This could work well. At least afford them a bit more protection than they had thought of in the beginning. And if they all worked long days, then there would be that much more for others ready to use. All in all this had been a good plan to at least keep their minds from thinking about what might be coming. Turning back to the metal, he began to cast again. He needed all the practice he could get.

Eddard continued his work, his pace snow balling as his rhythm's tempo increased. Soon he became oblivious to the others around him, lost in the beat of the hammer on anvil. He would only speak when spoken too, but usually after the inquirer asked a second time. This single minded focus on smithing was what carried him through his apprenticeship and fostered his love for it. He was simply entranced regardless of how repetitive the task was.

Myles followed Karaskis' example and slipped on his heavy gloves. He then held a bowl up for Karaskis to fill as she had commanded. Looking around, he made sure he knew where the racking stick was. It would be necessary for him to use it in order to get the bowls outs of the furnace unless karaskis wanted to reach in there on her own and pull them out since she was likely immune to the very heat she had produced.

The group continued on working in this manner for many. In time, the magic users became more proficient with the enchanting of the glass, their confidence rising and their repertoire of runes expanding under the guidance of the experienced Baadrite. After a few failed batches of glass arrowheads, eventually Myles and Karaskis found success and moved onto educating themselves in the more specific methods used to produce Baadrite glass. Lastly, Eddard, Saljin, and Tajnevaki continued to churn out weapons for the people. Though only steel, they still provided a measure of comfort bringing the Baadrites one step closer to having their lives back into their own hands. Soon, they would have to expand their production to glass blades.

Karaskis returned her to the rooms she shared with Tajnevaki after speaking with Harmodius. The task sounded as if it would be time consuming but considering what the end result would bring well worth her efforts. The nagging in her mind was result of either her own now forgotten memories or perhaps Cinder's own worries and paranoia. Things were quiet, that didn't mean their enemies had forgotten them.

The rooms were mostly quiet she could hear Rhys and Chester in the work room and further along the corridor someone was in the kitchen. Leaving hte others to whatever they were doing she headed for the stairs and toward her room. She wanted to get started as quickly as possible and perhaps find Mystery, it would be nice to have some reassurance while she started and she wanted to speak to him as it was. If she was going to be doing this her power would be lacking for the next twenty days which would leave her more vulnerable then she'd like.

Pushing the door to the room she shared with Mystery she paused glancing over the area. For now it seemed she was alone but with the hidden door so close that could change rather quickly. Knowing that Tajnevaki would hopefully be returning as the day was wearing on she headed over to the bed. Moving over to sit Karaskis crossed her legs and from the folds of the wrap that made up her outfit she brought the gem. Cupping her hands she brought it up to get a better look at it, the gem was truly of amazing design.

He was filthy from gathering things for the forge as well as moving supplies around for convenience when he returned to his rooms. Taj pushed the door open trying not to touch it with his hands. A wide smile crossed his face when he saw her, but faded upon noticing she was deep in thought. Something was bothering her.

Instead of moving towards the bath, his intention upon entering the room, the god moved towards her. He grinned indicating his appearance before leaning carefully over to kiss her on the lips.

Glancing at the stone, he questioned silently.

She didn't hear him at first when he came in the room, but after a few steps the sound drew her attention away from her thoughts. Smiling the goddess watched Mystery move over to her, returning the kiss she chuckled gently, "your filthy." Her smile turned into a bit of a grin, "been at the forge then I take it..."

His gaze brought her attention back to the gem, bringing her hand up she held it out allowing him to get a better look at it. "This hopefully will help with the weapon forging..." standing she kept the gem in one hand and then reached out to Taj with the other, "you need a bath though. And I'll tell you about this some."

Starting to prepare the bath she tucked the gem in her robe preferring to keep it close for the time being. As with other items having to do with her element there was something soothing about it as well. "Harmodius is going to help with the weapons...he's going to break down his glaive so the pieces can be put into many weapons. And this gem is going to help with that," turning some she sat on the edge of the bath allowing it time to fill up, "I have to charge it though...put a bit of my power into it."

Taj nodded taking her hand as he moved towards the bath. Thankfully it was large and deep enough that he'd be able to submerge his wings. He wondered for a moment if it had been like that before. As he dropped his clothing stepping into the warm water, he glanced down at them. They would take some major scrubbing to even get them to the point they would be wearable. Triq would have her work cut out for her.

He frowned slightly at the mention of the glaive being broken down. What would Creation do for a weapon? Perhaps he had another idea and that was why he was doing this? More useful in other hands than his own? Nodding he indicated she continue. There was more to tell he was sure.

Chuckling slightly a bit of a smile came to her face as she got a better look at the state of his clothing. "Hm, you need this bath," reaching up she aided him with getting his clothing off before continuing. "The glaive is going to be in the hands of many...creation himself will have no weapon - or rather he told me he had no need of one; his very being is deadly to the grigori. I do think from those created he should have something...our enemies are crafty as gehenna taught us. Plus...well at some point we may have other enemies."

The water seemed to be ready for Tajnevaki so she turned some to allow him more room to get in, "charging this stone...well it will take some time and I have a feeling that I might be much use while I'm doing it. So if there is some sort of problem. I may not be able to call my fire."

A faint grin on his face, he nodded. He did need the bath. They had been able to keep the fire hot enough that she'd not have to ensure it for awhile. He'd make sure that Eddard and the others knew to continue to do so. If her power were being poured into this gem, then she would be unable to do much to help.

His tablet lay on the floor. Reaching out, he wrote < The forge will be informed to safeguard the fire there. Creation should have a weapon of some sort. Something with a bit of life in it for his own protection and use. >

He began scrubbing his face and arms. The soot did not seem to want to come off, but slowly bit by bit it did so. His wings would be last as they would be the hardest to clean.

Sliding over behind Taj she let himself start to scrub up her attention turning to his wings, glancing over she read the note. "Get Rhys to let you borrow Phi or enlist both of them to help. Phi should be able to make you some coal that will hold the heat. True coal burns much hotter then the coal most used...before." She started to work on his wings, grinning a bit the goddess glanced over, "I feel like I'm preening a bird."

Chuckling gently she worked for a while on Tajnevaki's wings, before sighing gently and resting back, "just a bit more there but I think I got the worst of it. While you finish up...I think I should get started. No point in delaying something that might be very important later on."

He nodded, grinning widely when she began working on the feathers. There was no other way to do this or the work at the forge. Reaching over he wrote < Mystery is a mystery as well as part avian and feline. Who knows what else? >

His attention returned to the forge and he nodded slightly at the mention of Rhys. He would ask and see what they could do. She should get started as soon as possible. None knew when an attack might come but it surely would.

Glancing down at what Tajnevaki wrote Karaskis made a small sound of amusement, leaning down she kissed his brow before moving back toward the bed. Knowing that it would take Mystery a bit more time to finish up she curled her legs under her sitting on the edge of the bed, setting the fire seed in her hands.

Closing her eyes she was drawn to the seed, it called to her power. Letting her mind clear she sent a touch of power to the seed, it opened to her as if with an embrace. Something told her it should be warm, inviting but it wasn't instead it was stark and cold ... empty.

And this is where my power comes in...

She could feel the seed and how much of her power it would take, it would take sometime. Pausing a moment the goddess considered, she needed to focus her power but starting with too much now would be too much too fast. A small smile came to her face after a moment of contemplation, it would take sometime but since the seed had nothing in it she needed to make a good base for the rest. Concentrating she found herself standing in the middle of nothingness, there did seem to be a floor but it was empty. She didn't stay in her confining human form however, instead her mind brought up something more simple. She could feel warmth and pulled her power to her strengthening it, the warmth increased heating up as she started to pour her power into the seed.

Sparks shimmered in the nothing and fell over the ground. Once they hit the ground small flickers of flame started to appear. The start of a fire, the sparks flickered onto the ground and then Karaskis poured what was left of her power for the day into the seed. Small flames started up where each had settled, soon the small flames darted over the ground of the area that once was only empty filling it.

Resting back Karaskis sighed holding the seed in her hands a slight smile on her face, she could feel the wear on her. It had taken all her power for the day and although it wasn't really physical tiredness she closed her eyes. A bit of rest could go a long way.

His wings moved as he tried to gain some altitude over the trees. At least the dead trees that rose upwards along the edge of the green part where the Pantheon lay. He could see Tempest and Yuri moving beneath him as he glided downwards to look ahead of the man. They were foraging further and further away in the hopes of finding more.

Everyday or so new people came out of hiding or managed to find their way there via the rumors that were passed along the way. People used whatever they could to survive, but once inside the influence of the gods, they seemed to settle down and sigh in relief.

From where he was, he noted movement a short distance in front of Tempest. The faint glimmer of color and silver reminded him of something. Oddly he could not quite put his finger on it, but just to be on the safe side, he turned in the air so that he was coming down quickly and more in line with the man on the ground.

Yuri watched the shadows carefully. After having run into the two demons planning to eat Elana and her party, they had been more careful and watchful of the animals as well as people. Hasheem had been notified of such and so the guards around the area were far more alert now. He caught sight of the crow in the air as he and Tempest continued moving forwards.

His rings held in his hands as he moved forwards, he glanced around the area. "Still too much is dead, Yuri. Everything here was so beautiful once. Especially Eftemie's glade and cove. I know Joe managed to save some of those fluffballs, but still so many were lost." Tempest meant the mikmoo as Efte had called them. Bits of fluff and wings. That's all they were. Now there were so few and nearly all were shells and dormant. It would be nice to see the glade and cove alive with them again, but he was quite certain he would be an old man by that time.

The Goddess moved with an eerie grace, resempling the motions of her former host, less the tail, alowing for the crystal abruption forming off her back, oddly resembling wings. Moonlight colored hair growing a little longer with each passing day, was falling carelessly around her shoulders, caught like tree's in a landslide against the wings.

One of many, the pubescent goddess was finding herself without a home, and while Trivii may have been comfortable playing the vagabond she, however, Evadne, was not. One for stability and creature comforts, the wild desolate beauty was certainly apealing. In Its Way... as well as in Its Time. Its time was over, or would be very soon.

And lothe though she was to admit it, she had reached a point, where she could no longer provide for herself. She needed servents, not the small companions and nature sprites or demons she had managed to collect.

It was time to hunt down that Taj boy.

Now nothing more than a still small voice within her body, Trivii resisted. 'Friends. Lady Evadne. Friends are better than servents, friends will die for you.'

Brushing aside the thought, Eva closed her eyes and tried to grasp the scents with them tried to grasp the trail, the scent had changed but it was still recognizable enough.

Barefoot and showing a lot of pale violet skin, freckled with pyrite an almost spartan white leather loin clothe and bra, she strolled. She was as the mountain and stone itself. Cold and unfeeling, and filled with churning heat and energy just beneath the surface.

The world was in a cycle of rebirth, and everyone had seen them, felt it, tasted it and knew it, refashioning had been wrought on everyone, during these times of changes, the winds of fate cruel companions.

Amethyst shards locked in on the streak of dark in a gun metal sky. Moving lithely between shadows, knowing she hadn't been seen she propped herself, leaning against granite.

"Not... I'm afraid, everything is dead."

Yuri and Tempest continued walking the path, well it had some resemblance to a path. He had been tempted to head down to Efte's cove and look around but decided that perhaps it would bring back memories he did not want. At least not at this moment. It still hurt too much.

"It will be nice when everything is green again, Yuri." Tempest stated as he glanced around at the deadness everywhere. "I'm sure Taj and the rest will be relieved also. They've all been working hard to help everyone with what they need."

*And even Sable is back.* the feline replied happily. Just having his mate around again helped calm his nerves.

"I noticed. You aren't snapping at everything that moves." Tempest smirked as he glanced over at the feline in amusement. "There will be little ones before long I suspect."

Yuri growled at the thought. *Not yet.* Then he suddenly stopped, sniffing the air. Something seemed unsettling and the fur on the back of his neck raised. His wings twitched in adgitation. *I feel like we are being watched. I wonder...* His first thought was the two demons still out there, but this did not exactly smell like them. It was different.

Tempest hesitated, his hands falling to his rings. He was getting better with them, but he knew that Saljin was overhead also, keeping an eye on them. This was a foray to see what or who was still around. And obviously someone or something was.

((Btw, you realize there is still no sky or sun or stars yet, right? Lucius is still gone and nothing has been replaced just yet... ))

Yuri was immediately in front of Tempest as the man readied his rings, but hearing the laughter behind him, he turned his back to Yuri's back. Eyes narrowed he simply stared at her suspiciously. He hoped Saljin was close by. This could be troublesome.

His eyes were still watching as he moved through the branches. When he saw her, Saljin remembered immediately. Taj and he had both wondered what happened to the first god they had met. Evadne. That was her name.

Dropping down behind her, he shifted from crow to his own shape. In amusement, he chuckled. "Lady Evadne, I do believe that Lord Mystery would prefer his servants intact. He finds these two particularly useful." The shifter indolently leaned against a tree.

"And I see you found your pet. It has been a long time and much has happened since we saw you last. Jaster's memories are Taj's own. I am sure he will welcome you at the Pantheon." Saljin stated, as he winked at Tempest. The man and feline had made no move whatsoever but remained as still as statues for the moment.

((Habit, I would think there would be some light source. I forgot about Lucius.))

At the rustling of wings, the scent became stronger, and the Goddess didn't bother turning fully, so much as tilting her head and affecting a sulking tone of voice. "Saljin, you spoil the first fun I thought to have in more than a month. Entertainment is so-oo hard to find these days... are you sure I can't maime them? Even a little?" Not expecting any sort of answer to the rhetorical question she enjoyed the weary looks on the servents faces.


Stretching she insolently relaxed from her pose. Eva murmered, "Jennis is never far, and as the case may be he found me long before I could really start looking for him."

Flicking her wrist absently, Eva released Jennis from his watch.



Gaining his feet again the hell hound, moved abreast of the men, eyes now a much more earthly brown as he took up his post at Evadne's side.



Sliding a hand absently across the top of his head again focused on Saljin, who had changed only marginally since their last conversation. "Am I to understand then that Jaster is no more?" Sensing an opportunity she rocked back on her heals shifting to face the shifter, "Doesn't that bother you? Watching your friend fade?"

((I would imagine there is some light, just not entirely certain yet what has happened to replace the sky. I know they are working on it. ))

Saljin's lips twitched. He knew she was baiting him having turned her attempt to play at him instead of Tempest and Yuri. "It is good to see that you are in fine health, Lady. Our forays out are to look for others and to tell them about the green of the Pantheon again." His lips curved upwards in amusement. "Should it bother me? But then, Jaster is not entirely gone and it was his choice. He IS part of Taj in more ways than one would expect. It was their agreement in the end and both were stronger for it. Taj most certainly is now. There have been some very interesting changes recently, but before I tell you of those, is there anything you need? Tempest can summon up some food and water for you both."

The shifter indicated with a nod of his head that Tempest go ahead and accommodate her. "Tempest, this is Lady Evadne, Goddess of Mountains. I think a large cup of ice water and if I remember rightly, Lady Evadne has a fondness for apples and carrots. I'm not sure about her pet."

The man nodded, moving over to a nearby rock. Holding his rings outwards in his hands, he focused, pulling the lines of mana to him. It was faint this far out but enough was there with some concentration that his rings flashed as he guided the reshaping into a large cup of icy liquid with a plate of carrots and apples beside it. "Lady." he murmurred stepping back with a quick nod.

Reaching out to pat Yuri, Tempest glanced around the area after wiping the sweat from his brow. It still took alot for him to conjure this far out, but he was getting stronger and better at it. In truth it made it easier for him when he had more mana. It came to him easier.

The man had always been too smart for his own good, shard like amethyst eyes softed at the corners. Maybe he would make a better first addition to her collection than Taj.... "You remember correctly, I don't eat flesh. Jennis can hunt for himself most of the time, but I imagine he could use some water." She nodded to the conjurer, keeping most of her focus on Saljin.

Turning her gaze away she surveyed the landscape cautiously. "The winds of change have not been kind to many, beyond appearances is all well with you and yours?" It was an uncharacteristic moment of kindness, the result of some dormant drive left over from her host no doubt.

The smile in the thought couldn't be missed, 'That was all you mi'lady.'

Brushing her host aside again, her own lack of a home may have prompted the query. "Trivii's, my hosts, properties were decimated in a meteor shower towards the end. The house burned, nothing is left except for realistate that probably isn't worth very much." Looking back at Saljin, Eva knelt and rubbed Jennis's side, wrapping an arm arround his neck, enjoying the mink like texture, and not expecting anything more than a few politely taunting words from the shifter, in his amusing efforts to keep her from seeking amusement with his people.



Jennis layed his ears flat against his head and curled his lips back, either not liking the attentions or protecting his mistress it was hard to tell.

Tempest nodded, focusing on the rings again. Water appeared again but this time in a large bowl. Picking it up, he placed it on the ground before the creature, stepping back a moment later. His eyes once more picked out various places in the landscape watchfully.

"Most are well. Those that survived the ordeal of what Samyaza had set in motion. We still prepare for them but they have been unseen as of yet." Saljin frowned thoughtfully. "In truth if not for the influx of people brought by Lisana and Cosine from Baadris, there would be fewer here than there are. Many gods have come into their own again. Nergal is at his full power as is Tian Yue. There are godling children once more as well. Nergal's own brood consist of Lament, Guardian, and Grief. Kaelin's daughters River and Rain frequently flow through the Panthon. Much was destroyed but there is much that is new also. Little is left of the old that is worth much, though that which does have value is being reshaped to suit our needs now. We do have both glass and metal forges set up for use by the mortals as well as ourselves."

Saljin smiled as he watched her extending an invitation. "I am quite certain that Lord Mystery and Lady Fire would welcome you to their rooms until you have time to see Lord Harmodius to acquire your own once more. I've heard that Lady Laughter is quite hospitable also, though of late she has been in the company of Lord Water." He was quite certain she would be up to something and warning her of Karaskis was as much for Taj's protection from her as Evadne's benefit. Neither he nor Jaster had trusted her entirely.

"You would be welcome, Lady." Saljin stated as he continued to simply watch the group. His ears were alert on the area around him also. "There are more gods now as well. More stones given, more to help reconstruct the sky and stars. Forest and Judgement have returned." He frowned suddenly. "Universe was lost in all this and the Twin Crown resigned to a pod in which worked Gehenna. Various aspects occurring as we ourselves made our way to space and back with the fragments of Aristogeiton. As did others collect other pieces as well. Days of paradise just before all would have begun to split asunder, voiding the elements themselves. . All worked together to halt it, though it was quite close, and the plot of the grigori dissolved. At least that portion for Lord Harmodius is returned and rules once more."

Saljin laughed suddenly removing the seriousness of the things he had said. She would find out more from the gods themselves upon arriving at the Pantheon. "Lady Lisana is full of tricks and riddles as always. And Lord Kaelin is well, indeed. They seem quite happy. The Lady was offplanet for awhile, sent to look for solutions on a world called Baadris, a desert planet. Many followed her as if she were the pied piper. In fact she has her own group of personal guards to protect her though I'm quite certain she does not need them. Many of her creatures roam the grasses near by her rooms. He should perhaps understand that certain creatures are out of his range of food." The shifter was amused by Lisana more often than not. He knew how Hasheem felt about her, but also knew the man would never say so. And it was known that many of the odd creatures about were under her protection.

"Forest I have met. A rather interesting host and god." Tempest added, but he had flinched slightly at so much mention of Lisana, shifting the subject to Forest instead. It was barely perceptable. "It was Glyph who showed me how to gain my own gift in conjuring. Much has changed but at least the pantheon is green and we are slowly regaining what is needed."

Saljin added frowning, "Creation deems it unsafe for the gods to be scattered until the grigori make their intent plain. It is perhaps opportune that you have returned at this time for their void is dangerous."

Saljin laughed, moving over to scan an area to the east of them. "They are gone. All is green around the Pantheon for some distance and there are several teahouses. The Pantheon itself has changed as well. It was one of the first things Lord Harmodius did. His power returns."

"We should not stay long here. There were two demons in the area not long ago. They are not friendly." Tempest nodded towards Saljin as he and Yuri still surveyed the area behind them all.

The shifter turned back to Evadne, waving his hand in slight dismissal. "Taj will not mind that you remain with them. He would have Jaster's memories of you and know you. And however long you stay is how long you stay. There is much going on and I've only spoken of the surface of what has happened. Jaster was there as was I. There is more that you should know, but it will take some time to explain it to you. And nothing against Tempest's food, but you can have a meal at the Pantheon that is much better."

Tempest's eyes narrowed at Saljin. "Bite me." He looked annoyed but it was obvious they were friends by the way they stared at one another. "Besides, you eat it often enough."

Saljin laughed, but then added, "There is one other thing you should know. Mystery has no voice, so be prepared to read the cryptic or expect a translation from another."