Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
By the All, she's going to find him and drag it out of him just why that redheaded son of a candle maker left before her trance had ended. As such only lasts a maximum of four hours, he'd had to have snuck out of their hotel room pretty damn early in the morning. Curse her host's way of resting! It doesn't allow her to break from it without something truly obnoxious rousing her senses. What good is sensitive hearing or sight when your attention is turned inward?Laele gives a quick flap of her wings from her bond's shoulder, only resettling upon being petted. The Dream is uneasy, not liking this stalking the streets for hours on end in the slightest. While there has been an occasional flutter of a tasty idea here and there, on the whole the folk they pass are too absorbed in just trying to get by to be concerned with matters of cleverness. She's gotten glimpses of the one they are searching for from her bond's subconscious, and she can't quite understand what all of the fuss is about. Still, she'd done as requested and brought the strange shadow things with her in order for her bond's life to be guarded. She only hopes that this silliness can end soon, so they can return home to the place of stone and learning minds.
A heavy seeming hooded cloak keeps the Weaver from standing out from the meager crowd as she traverses alleyways and street corners. She's determined to find Adrian and make certain that he's safe. It's a matter of pride that she find him herself, but if he's not found by the morrow, then she will call upon her resources to scour the surrounding lands.
Why all this effort for one man? He's gained her interest, and that isn't something a mortal can just toss away. No, Shadow is far too stubborn for that.
Zero Dream
In all honestly, Adrian wasn't quite sure how long he's been laying there. The pain seemed to have mostly subsided by now, but there was still an odd tenseness in the small of his back. Given that it was where the wave of pain that pretty much took him over initially came from that area, the pyromancer is rightfully worried - did someone strike him ? No, there no blood, and no familiar sting of an open wound.
Something cold, then all of sudden, pain...
Of course, he's quite aware that he's pretty much an easy picking as he is now, laying down in an alley. He'd heard noise, ducked in, and then it all happened. Right now, curiosity was so not a quality in his mind. Still, it takes him quite some time to work himself first to his knee, then to his feet, wobbling like a small child taking his first steps. His back protesting all the effort all the way, of course.
It is in this kind of mindset that Shadow stepped in the alley he was in. His initial reaction is a pure instinctive one - light up one hand, bristle like a cat, and overall tries to look like one that should not be ******** with - which he quite used to be some time ago. Odd that his fire comes to him so easily now, but the adrenalin makes it so he doesn't quite notice.
Thankfully for the goddess, however, before any thought of burning things down can quite enter his mind, his flames illuminates whatever is not hidden by her hood, and he recognizes her instantaneously. He lets the flame die off, and once again falls right on his knee, lips curling to let out a hiss of pain. Whatever happened, it's not doing him much good.
Something cold, then all of sudden, pain...
Of course, he's quite aware that he's pretty much an easy picking as he is now, laying down in an alley. He'd heard noise, ducked in, and then it all happened. Right now, curiosity was so not a quality in his mind. Still, it takes him quite some time to work himself first to his knee, then to his feet, wobbling like a small child taking his first steps. His back protesting all the effort all the way, of course.
It is in this kind of mindset that Shadow stepped in the alley he was in. His initial reaction is a pure instinctive one - light up one hand, bristle like a cat, and overall tries to look like one that should not be ******** with - which he quite used to be some time ago. Odd that his fire comes to him so easily now, but the adrenalin makes it so he doesn't quite notice.
Thankfully for the goddess, however, before any thought of burning things down can quite enter his mind, his flames illuminates whatever is not hidden by her hood, and he recognizes her instantaneously. He lets the flame die off, and once again falls right on his knee, lips curling to let out a hiss of pain. Whatever happened, it's not doing him much good.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
Her fear of his gift was taken from her in the bliss of the heat it once gave her. While they never sealed the budding trust between them, it is yet strong enough that she stands firm with one hand raised to keep her Dream calm come the first flickering of flames. He won't hurt her. She knows this, as sure in it as she is the truth of her twisting nature. She need not move her hood nor give up her cloak. Merely tilting up her head, he can witness the flashing of gray edged sea green eyes as the contours of her face are lit up by his fire.His pain sizzles at the corners of her mind, and she grunts as the hand that she kept up for Laele's sake goes to the goddess's forehead. "Adrian ... " Such pain. What is causing this? Who would single him out for such torment, one who she seeks to claim as her own?
The Dream whirs a chirrup and takes off from Shadow's shoulder, going without being told to patrol the immediate vicinity. At least it gives her something to do. The half mortal goddess lowers her head back down so her hood covers her features once more. Suppressing a shiver, she moves without a sound to where Adrian is knelt, her cloak expanding as if a cloud to envelope him as soon as she's within a foot of his pitiable form. Sheathed in darkness absolute, her arms wrap around him protectively, one hand seeking the source of his pain. She feels a raised bump of sorts that inspires suspicions, but she doesn't dwell on them for now. Focus is needed. Focus to send the coldness of her flesh outward and into him to ease the flaring of his hurt. It is the reverse of the process her body often employs to steal heat from others, but she's used it before in this life, she can do so again. "Trust in me, Pyreflame. Close your eyes. You need them not. Hold on to me and you will be safe."
Zero Dream
"There's something here... Someone... Be careful..." Or was he paranoid, and whatever had hit him was now long gone ? It doesn't matter. Even in this state, he's much more worried for her safety than his own. "Don't know if it's... gone..."
Then, suddenly, there was nothing but darkness. He almost panicked, but just like she had trusted he would not harm her once he recognized her, he gives her his own trust. Beside, he isn't really in the position to argue... again.
It's quite hard to curb his instincts and not try to overtake the cold with his own heat... especially since he can find himself going numb all over. He's not quite a fan of the situation. He's used to extreme cold, yes, but now it's almost too much. "...Hurts..."
So cold in fact, that it seemed his mind just threatened to fall asleep.
Then, suddenly, there was nothing but darkness. He almost panicked, but just like she had trusted he would not harm her once he recognized her, he gives her his own trust. Beside, he isn't really in the position to argue... again.
It's quite hard to curb his instincts and not try to overtake the cold with his own heat... especially since he can find himself going numb all over. He's not quite a fan of the situation. He's used to extreme cold, yes, but now it's almost too much. "...Hurts..."
So cold in fact, that it seemed his mind just threatened to fall asleep.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
She shushes him, her breath proving as chilly as what she's projecting as it brushes against his cheek. The flow of cold is ended, for to give up more of her natural temperature would endanger them both. She'd concentrated on the area from which his pain that been hotly pulsing, her awareness reporting that such has been reduced to a dull throb. She had not intended for the rest of him to be so affected, and the sudden drop in his temperature alarms her. What words he had mumbled are kept in her memory, but aren't so important to her right now as to get him warm again. She can't treat him here, and a journey through the Shadow Plane would be too dangerous in his condition. Why did she send Alimus back to the temple again? At least with him present she'd have another set of hands.There's no choice in the matter. Let their observers, whomever they may be, bear witness if they must. Her left arm shifts to slide under his knees, her body bending at the waist. Her right moves to support his back as she whispers, "I'm taking you somewhere safe. Hold on to me, Adrian, and keep your eyes closed."
Her darkness gains arms and legs as it splits off from them. Short shapes that resemble human and elven children hover about the Weaver, as if waiting for instructions. "You three, come with me," she directs with nods of her head to a few of the beings, "The rest of you, remain with Laele and return to the temple upon the end of her inspection. Guard her as you would me. Now go, and be careful, my children." The ones she told to remain with her float over to the shadow that the Weaver casts and seep into it, making it not quite as dark as it was before this whole ordeal.
Balancing his weight carefully, she gets to her feet by way of the muscles of her legs pushing her up and stands with Adrian in her arms. Her smile to him is actually rather fond, despite the fact that she's still more than a little grumpy that he left their room as he did. "My turn to save you, it seems," is murmured before she begins to run. It's eerie how the only sound resulting from her dash is the rustle of his clothing and his hair, never hers. Cradling his head to her chest, her wings form out of the shadow of a nearby abandoned building. Huge, black, and mostly corporeal feathered wings beat at the air as she leaps from the ground then slowly lifts off of the ground. They are headed up and away from the broken down streets of the outer city. To keep him from suffering the effects of hypothermia, she keeps her body's greed for warmth at bay, forcing it not to partake of what her passenger has left.
Zero Dream
Jinx had watched the whole scene from her perch on the rooftop. If it had been another mortal, she would have had no issue with intervening, but this was not so, she could feel it. Still weak, but there was divine power there. This woman was one of the gods, but what was she doing here ? Why was she so interested in this one mortal ?
Oh dear. She sent one of the crows to follow from a distance, but there was little she could do now. At least, maybe, she'll keep him from being too stupid...
Adrian can quite hear her, but it's much like if she was speaking another language - he cannot quite understand her. He's reacting in a way he himself does not even know why but can't quite let the goddess know - anything that come out of his mouth is pretty much jumbled, like someone half asleep. He's not even aware that they had taken flight...
Do as the lady tell you... you shall.... be fine.
Voices ? He must have been hallucinating... The voice itself did look pretty sleepy, as if it had itself just awakened. With some prodding, instinct kicked in - there would be a sudden, steady rise of warmth from within him - not quick enough or strong enough to hurt her, and whatever excess she could take in. They're about halfway to their destination when yellow eyes open and suddenly went wide. Oh snap where did the ground go ?!? He froze, not literally, thankfully, but he did not dare move beside tensing, as if afraid any movement might make the weaver drop him.
Oh dear. She sent one of the crows to follow from a distance, but there was little she could do now. At least, maybe, she'll keep him from being too stupid...
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Adrian can quite hear her, but it's much like if she was speaking another language - he cannot quite understand her. He's reacting in a way he himself does not even know why but can't quite let the goddess know - anything that come out of his mouth is pretty much jumbled, like someone half asleep. He's not even aware that they had taken flight...
Do as the lady tell you... you shall.... be fine.
Voices ? He must have been hallucinating... The voice itself did look pretty sleepy, as if it had itself just awakened. With some prodding, instinct kicked in - there would be a sudden, steady rise of warmth from within him - not quick enough or strong enough to hurt her, and whatever excess she could take in. They're about halfway to their destination when yellow eyes open and suddenly went wide. Oh snap where did the ground go ?!? He froze, not literally, thankfully, but he did not dare move beside tensing, as if afraid any movement might make the weaver drop him.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
Her worry for him, as such is what she's feeling when one gets right down to it, doesn't cease, not even when he warms in her arms. Were she less focused on the man she's carrying and how to help him, she'd have taken a moment to puzzle over numerous factors, the most immediate of which being something that's simple for others yet not so much for her. She's feeling, without drawing upon her Weave to do so. This is supposed to be an impossibility. She is the Weaver of Shadows. She has no heart, no concept of true emotion. She's a puppet master, a thief, a temptress, and a plethora of other equally unsavory things. Or is she?He's gone stiff, which results in a very soft and throaty chuckle, one which he'll likely only hear because of his ear being so close to its source. "You did not have the chance to bear witness to my wings during our last encounter," is murmured soothingly as she continues on towards their destination, "Relax, Adrian. I won't let you fall. I'm stronger than I look."
She is still avoiding taking of his warmth, and thus her lips are icy cold when they brush his brow. "We go to my home, now. You will be safe there till you recover in full." There is only a hint of annoyance in her soft voice when she adds, "I need you to promise me that you won't run off again. You are not to be a prisoner, and may leave when you wish, but I ask that you give me a few days to make certain you will be alright."
Zero Dream
The issue isn't as much that he's afraid of heights... It's more that his brain is still trying to connect just when exactly he left the ground. It's, of course, all a bit confusing to him. Almost like being in a roller-coaster, and he just hopped the ride was over. The pain was pretty much gone, but he could still feel something in there...
Adrian knows better than to argue at this point, really, so he just nodded in answer.
Adrian knows better than to argue at this point, really, so he just nodded in answer.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
Accepting his nod as enough of a reply, she doesn't speak further till the Soul Shard Mountains can be seen on the horizon, upon which she puts on a bit more speed, suddenly very eager to get home. Yet, the Temple of Whispers has become as such for her and those she treasures, a home. A place one can ever return to and feel that they belong."We are nearly there," she says as much for her benefit as for Adrian's, with her head ducking down to rest a cheek against his forehead, a slim gray hand pressing to his right cheek to better nestle him against her.
She reaches out with her mind, tapping the link she shares with the shadowkin, Alimus, to send him a message. Have the doors opened for us, my friend. We have a guest that requires a thorough going over.
There isn't a doubt in her mind that Adrian will not have trouble in seeing the temple and the grounds that surround it, but she makes for the crossroads anyway. It would go against tradition to do any less, and even she has been known to misjudge someone's character, as rare as such occasions may be. Still, she's certain he'll witness the mountainside fading away to reveal the path to the Temple of Whispers. He has to! Trying not to focus on just how she ought to react if he doesn't, she makes to land on an open strip of uncluttered dry grass and rough stone, bare gray feet meeting the ground at a run as her wings flap soundlessly to further slow them down.
Zero Dream
Well, those are good news. Such a flight, he is coming to realize, is not exactly ranking high into his top ways of transportation. Even if he was assured otherwise by the goddess carrying him, the fear of winding up freefalling was enough to remove enjoyment from the little trip. He figured it was a completely different experience when one had steady wings to control...
He landed on his own two feet soon afterward, and he did his best to make sure not to be as pleased as he was about the fact. But there was something odd, had Shadow not said they were going somewhere ? All he saw was a mountain, after all, unless she intended them to sleep there ? If there was something he learned, it was that one simply could not guess with this woman. "Hm... Is it... further up or something ?" He glanced at the shorter woman. Thankfully, before she has time to worry, yellow eyes widened in apparent surprise. Was that mountain... melting ? Fading ? "...Well, that's a new one."
He takes a few steps forward to examine the newly-formed temple, and it is simply impossible to miss it. A rectangular gemstone, embedded right over his tailbone, of varying shades of grays. The skin around it is an angry, irritated red, but it seems to be fading back into his normal, pale skintone.
He landed on his own two feet soon afterward, and he did his best to make sure not to be as pleased as he was about the fact. But there was something odd, had Shadow not said they were going somewhere ? All he saw was a mountain, after all, unless she intended them to sleep there ? If there was something he learned, it was that one simply could not guess with this woman. "Hm... Is it... further up or something ?" He glanced at the shorter woman. Thankfully, before she has time to worry, yellow eyes widened in apparent surprise. Was that mountain... melting ? Fading ? "...Well, that's a new one."
He takes a few steps forward to examine the newly-formed temple, and it is simply impossible to miss it. A rectangular gemstone, embedded right over his tailbone, of varying shades of grays. The skin around it is an angry, irritated red, but it seems to be fading back into his normal, pale skintone.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
She didn't reply to his inquiry, letting him discover the answers on his own. The relief that bubbles up is far greater than she'd thought possible when he finally notices the boulder-lined path and the temple beyond. The majestic stone building is a good ways away, but it's so tall that once one can see it, it is indeed very hard to miss. Even from this distance the two statues to either side of the wide front entrance can be made out, though their details are blurry at best.Yet it's not to these that her eyes are drawn. No, her attention has been garnered by something that shines with an eerie dull sparkle upon Adrian's back. Her heart skips a beat, and her wings settle about her shoulders as if seeking to replace the cloak she oft wears while traveling outside of the temple. What is this mix of emotions creeping into her heart? Where are they coming from? Why does she want to laugh, to weep, to reach over and tear at his skin in the vain hope that even while hurting him she could yet save him ... All are irrational and beaten down by the concentration she's built up over generations of controlling her Weave, though these are not the same, and she knows it. It's something to think on later, when more important matters have been resolved.
How will she tell him, and should she? She'd been the one to contact Eirnae, no other warned the elf of her presence beforehand. Yet she did not associate herself with the others. They had no chance to make this choice, but I do. ... He deserves to know. But which of the gods are they dealing with? Who is stealing him from me ... She mentally growls, forcing herself to walk instead of stalk forward, a silvery-gray hand stretching out so a fingertip brushes against the surface of the gem. Who are you?
Zero Dream
Adrian does not seem to notice anything is wrong, really, as he follows the path set before him, looking around almost like a curious child. This place sure did seem to bring his interest, and with his thoughts elsewhere, it would be easier for the deities to talk unnoticed.
At first, there is no answer that is given to her, only a vague sense of something stirring within the stone, a sleeper still barely awakening. It takes yet some more seconds before she gets the answer she is seeking. I am... My name... is Ankou, if it is what you ask. I was known as the spirit guide... I... So hard to remember...
It seemed like this one's memory would need some time to settle.
At first, there is no answer that is given to her, only a vague sense of something stirring within the stone, a sleeper still barely awakening. It takes yet some more seconds before she gets the answer she is seeking. I am... My name... is Ankou, if it is what you ask. I was known as the spirit guide... I... So hard to remember...
It seemed like this one's memory would need some time to settle.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
The Weaver is torn. She's been where this god is now, freshly connected to a host and not yet fully aware of what can be done to make the transition more beneficial for both body and spirit. Yet she'd only enticed Eirnae into picking her up and touching her to her skin, not ... this."Did you force him?" Her mental voice is also a whisper, which isn't much of a surprise, but is of the sort wherein her gender isn't obvious. The male and female ranges that are possible for the voice she's chosen for herself murmur in a pleasing harmony. "The Guide that I remember would do no such thing, so I give you the chance to deny it."
May Gaia have mercy on this Ankou if he admits to the rape of Adrian, for she will have none. She knows his name, his face. This is one of the memories that are clear and clean, shining bright like dew trapped on a spider's web. He had been one of the few she'd found excuses to watch, if only to note what new little plot he'd concocted. Silly little daydreams of working with him for such a "project", just for fun, had occupied quite a few of her free hours. The Spirit Guide will not lie to her, nor anyone, without just cause, and there is be no justice to be found in him holding his tongue now. If his stay in Limbo has robbed him of this trait, she's just going to have to risk it.
While still trained on the presence in the gem, she follows after Adrian, staying just behind with her intense gaze often lowering back down to where Ankou's gem has been implanted.
Zero Dream
Once again, the initial answer is silence, but it's quite obvious from the faint stirring that he's trying to think. It's hard from him to remember anything prior to the initial pain of his host. Jinx may have thought he had caused it to allow escape, but in reality he hadn't even been conscious of much.
Darkness... Warm hands, two different pairs... one is familiar, the other not quite... The one stirring in this gem seems not quite aware that he's letting his train of thought slip. The shieks of crows... Apparently he's trying to reconstruct the events of the past few days before he ventures into answering. ...The eldest.... and who...
There was a pause then, and then he attempts to formulate a proper answer. All that I know is that he was the one I needed. You will have... to forgive me for not being too aware of how exactly I wound up here. I am afraid sight has not come to me yet.
Had he been more awake, he'll have asked who the hell she was, but it seemed the thought hadn't dawned on him. That, or he was desperate for conversation. Again, there was a faint stirring within the jewel that only she could feel
Adrian doesn't seem to have noticed the two deities talking, however, he cocks his head to look at Shadow. "You're awfully quiet, you know."
Darkness... Warm hands, two different pairs... one is familiar, the other not quite... The one stirring in this gem seems not quite aware that he's letting his train of thought slip. The shieks of crows... Apparently he's trying to reconstruct the events of the past few days before he ventures into answering. ...The eldest.... and who...
There was a pause then, and then he attempts to formulate a proper answer. All that I know is that he was the one I needed. You will have... to forgive me for not being too aware of how exactly I wound up here. I am afraid sight has not come to me yet.
Had he been more awake, he'll have asked who the hell she was, but it seemed the thought hadn't dawned on him. That, or he was desperate for conversation. Again, there was a faint stirring within the jewel that only she could feel
Adrian doesn't seem to have noticed the two deities talking, however, he cocks his head to look at Shadow. "You're awfully quiet, you know."
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
Adrian's statement slides her eyes up to meet his, revealing that their grayness has seeped to be the more dominant color. Even now they flash as if steel, jolts of bright sea green flaring as if lightning between those metallic clouds. "I'm allowing you time to take in the scenery in silence, Adrian," is murmured, her smile soft and meant to reassure despite the fierceness of her gaze, "I would not wish to ruin your first impression of the way to the place I call home.""Your apology is accepted, though I understand these woes. They are temporary. Given time, you will again see through eyes not yet yours." Adrian isn't the only one who is internally fumbling, or will be. "You have given me your name, so I offer one of mine. I am the Weaver of Shadows. I had intended to convince Adrian of the benefits of taking shelter beneath my wings, and while unintentionally, you have stolen this from me. As recompense, I ask but one thing of you. It will be well within your power to fulfill."
The dual voice lowers, spiraling about the presence in the stone. "Go slow to cause as little pain as possible. He has been through much, Spirit Guide, and is as fragile as thin frosted glass, though he tries to seem the blackened iron castings instead."
Zero Dream
That glare... There's something up, he can tell. It sends a shiver trough his spine, and he shakes his head, as if trying to toss that strange feeling away in the same way red locks of hairs do. She must have been mighty pissed at him for his little stunt, so he decided it was better to stay silent and not draw more ire out of her.
A wound on his soul. This is the cause of this, I assume... It was unclear if the deity was speaking to her, or was again thinking. He flares, and he dims. He's quite lucky I can keep him afloat, else I fear the weaver might have already lost him...
It then seems to become clear that he is talking to her. I do not quite find myself in a position to promise anything, but I can assure you that I will do all I can.
A wound on his soul. This is the cause of this, I assume... It was unclear if the deity was speaking to her, or was again thinking. He flares, and he dims. He's quite lucky I can keep him afloat, else I fear the weaver might have already lost him...
It then seems to become clear that he is talking to her. I do not quite find myself in a position to promise anything, but I can assure you that I will do all I can.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
No, she had not meant for him to shudder and look away, even if is more convenient for her to focus on the god within the gem as a result. She quickens her steps to catch up with then walk beside him, an arm sliding to try and slither about his waist. If so permitted, her grasp is gentle, the sort he can easily escape from if he's thus inclined."Why did you leave as you did, Adrian?" Her whisper carries her concern for his welfare, though her reasons have shifted as to why over the last few minutes. "Surely you knew I would look for you?"
To Ankou, her mind's murmur becomes still softer, as if the split in her concentration is affecting how well she can address him. "That is all I can ask of you, Spirit Guide." She had meant to leave it at that, but something urges her to add, "For what has happened, I place no blame upon you. Adrian is a fine choice for a host. I only regret that I may not yet be able to heal the would you spoke of before he is gone."
He had listened to her request and vowed what he could. A god such as Ankou will hold himself to that promise, vague as it is. She would narrow its design, but her asking had been said in a general manner, also. This whole business is hazy and emotional, and for that it's no wonder she's uncomfortable. "Need you one to speak with that understands what you are to go through, I will be here." She knows she would have given most anything to have had the chance to make contact with Wind during the days she was locked up inside of Eirnae. There is no need for this god to suffer the same, especially when she wishes to better know the one who will overtake Adrian.
Zero Dream
It can yet be possible, Weaver. The god within the gray stone has no doubt that it could be possible for her to have done so. Especially now that he is supporting him from within... If she still wished to do so, why should he stop her ? I shall keep this in mind. For now, I should probably rest - else it become taxing for us both.
Ah, there was The Question. No use trying to lie. "I felt like I had to go... I probably should have waited, at the very least... But..." I was scared.
Ah, there was The Question. No use trying to lie. "I felt like I had to go... I probably should have waited, at the very least... But..." I was scared.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
The beginning of a slight nodding of her head in response to what the god said rather than the mortal that houses him is quickly caught by her reflexes and shifted into a tilting of it instead. She has yet to want to give Adrian the impression that there is a deity within him and that she's been having a conversation with said deity. Her plan? Get him inside of the temple and then break the news, as gently as she can. "Anything is possible, Spirit Guide. Rest now. We shall speak again when you feel able." As if in farewell, the hand that's casually resting upon Adrian's hip slides down to brush the surface of the gem before returning to its previous perch."Yes, you should have," she agrees, her left hand going to his chest to splay her fingers so her palm can make contact with his shirt, "I wonder if I overdid things a bit. I had no intention of frightening you, though it seems I accomplished just that."
Zero Dream
"No, no, it wasn't your fault. Really. Don't think it is..." The red-haired man shook his head. "It's just..."
He pauses for a moment, looking over at the mountain backdrop instead of her. There was dull ache where the gem had been implanted now, probably because of the conversations the deities had shared - but it isn't enough to truly be called painful. More like, distracting.
"It's just that trouble seems to follow me. I thought something might happen to you if I stayed... It's stupid, but it's how I felt. So I left before you could try to convince me otherwise.
He pauses for a moment, looking over at the mountain backdrop instead of her. There was dull ache where the gem had been implanted now, probably because of the conversations the deities had shared - but it isn't enough to truly be called painful. More like, distracting.
"It's just that trouble seems to follow me. I thought something might happen to you if I stayed... It's stupid, but it's how I felt. So I left before you could try to convince me otherwise.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
With a wry little smile, she guides her hand up to first tap him on the chin then the tip of his nose with a fingertip. "Trouble does seem to follow you, I'll give you that. Why else would you have ended up beside me now?"Maintaining her smile, she goes from playful to thoughtful, that same finger sliding along the curve of his nose to continue down his cheek, finally resting at the edge of his jaw. "There will ever be something out to get me, Adrian. I am Shadow, a goddess of dark places and I protect those who hide in them. Not everyone agrees upon the rights of those I shelter, and so I become a target. Your presence will not change this beyond my enjoying time spent with you."
That smile broadens a bit upon her added murmur, "However, your concern for me is appreciated. May I suggest that next time you grant me the right to decide for myself just how much danger I'm willing to take on in order to maintain your company? It is a show of respect I would, and will do, for you should the need arise."
Zero Dream
He can't help but make a bit of a silly face when he is tapped lightly on the nose like a child who had misbehaved - if only because he had been trying to follow said finger with his yellow eyes.
"I guess ill have to give another show of sparks to get all those things to leave you alone. hm ?" He says with an half-smile. As if he could stand up to whatever a goddess could consider a threat. He would probably be stupid enough to try, nonetheless. While he still wasn't too sure about this whole deity thing, he can't really claim to have see any mortal do the things she had done, and he could most definitively feel that there was something about her.
"I guess ill try not to worry myself too much, then."
"I guess ill have to give another show of sparks to get all those things to leave you alone. hm ?" He says with an half-smile. As if he could stand up to whatever a goddess could consider a threat. He would probably be stupid enough to try, nonetheless. While he still wasn't too sure about this whole deity thing, he can't really claim to have see any mortal do the things she had done, and he could most definitively feel that there was something about her.
"I guess ill try not to worry myself too much, then."
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
He inspires a bit of her husky laughter, lightening her mood to the point that it doesn't seem a bad idea, at least to her, to slide her hand from his jaw and brush his lips with the tips of her fingers. "No doubt they'll flee rather than have to face the mighty Pyreflame," she teases, then winking before continuing, "Your worry warms my heart, Adrian, and I won't say it is unfounded. You'll know when it is no longer needed, though mine for you likely won't find such a convenient end."The path has broadened the closer they've gotten to the temple itself. Where before there was naught but tall and craggy boulders to either side, now there is grass and sculpted bushes. The promise of a garden flourishes by the temple's outer walls. A discerning eye will make out that there is a significant difference between the two halves of the grounds nearest the temple. One looks to be as if a desert of colored sand and cacti, while the other is as green as the grounds surrounding the circle of smooth black stone from which the steps leading to the wide double doors begin. The statues framing the entrance prove tall beyond mortal measure, though the height of the ancient seeming temple dwarfs even them.
The Weaver looks up and gestures in that direction, indicating the joined hands of the feminine visages. "My sister and I. This is our temple, an embodiment of our commitment to one another. She is the Keeper of Wind, and I the Weaver of Shadows. This place, this Temple of Whispers, is one of the few remaining sacred sites that honors us both."
There is movement by the doors, which stand open, though whatever is within is shrouded in darkness. Figures wearing loose black robes with white masks that only cover a quarter of their faces are to one side of the doors, on the other are more in soft blue robes. The latter are without masks, though they might as well be wearing them for the neutral expression upon their faces. Now that they have spotted the advancing pair there is no further motion beyond all of those pairs of eyes watching as Shadow and her companion continue along the path and then up the center of the circle.
Zero Dream
"Just mean there'll be things to keep me occupied then." The fire mage gives a cocky smirk. "Let them come, I say ! Just allow me to handle the complain department and they'll leave you alone." He can't help but chuckle a bit.
A sister, oh ? "Let us hope that she isn't as gorgeous as you are." He says with a playful wink. My, was he teasing ? A sign that he was getting comfortable ? Who knows what exactly goes on in this man's mind - after all, if he's expected to stick around, he might as well make the best of it. "That'll be enough to drive a man crazy, that."
He, however, quiets once all those gazes fall on them, apparently a bit intimidated by all the figures and those blank face. Did they *need* to stare at him ? It sends shivers down his spine, which in sure sends a surge of pain from the stone's implantation point, but he hides it well.
A sister, oh ? "Let us hope that she isn't as gorgeous as you are." He says with a playful wink. My, was he teasing ? A sign that he was getting comfortable ? Who knows what exactly goes on in this man's mind - after all, if he's expected to stick around, he might as well make the best of it. "That'll be enough to drive a man crazy, that."
He, however, quiets once all those gazes fall on them, apparently a bit intimidated by all the figures and those blank face. Did they *need* to stare at him ? It sends shivers down his spine, which in sure sends a surge of pain from the stone's implantation point, but he hides it well.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
Hide his pain he can, from all but a few, one of which is the goddess beside him. Her arm readjusts, sliding around him to keep him close and allow a measure of her protectiveness for this mortal man to show. Feeling his unease, she attempts to return him to his previous good humor. "Her beauty is a matter of opinion, as all appearances are. Should you think her tempting, then praise her with an admiring look but not with words. My sister favors actions rather than flattery. You may, however, share your thoughts on such matters with me whenever you like." Rather than returning his wink, she favors his cheek with a brushing of her lips, though she has to go on tip-toe for a moment to do so."These are the acolytes of the temple, come to see who approaches," she explains quietly with a nod towards those gathered before them, all the while guiding Adrian up the stairs beside her, "As you are with me, they will not block our progress. I suggest you acquaint yourself with at least a few of their number during your stay."
They go over the last of the black steps, and one of each of the groups of robed individuals advances slowly to be closer to the pair. The one in black brings her hands together, cupping them before bowing at the waist. "My Lady, it is good to have you back. How may we serve?"
Shadow dips her head slightly in response, her smile becoming one of gentle fondness. "Acolyte Elaine, see to accommodations for our guest. He will be with us for a few days, possibly a month, depending on when he seeks to leave us. Be certain to have every need accounted for. There will be a list waiting for you in the east storage room. Use that as your guide."
"It will be my pleasure, my Lady." The young woman's words seem sincere enough, but the brief glance she gives Adrian is of the sort of appraisal someone gives a rival, as if making sure their target is unarmed before they try for a killing blow. Another bow, briefer this time, and the robed woman backs up three steps before turning around and heading for the open entrance, walking into the gloom and disappearing from sight.
The other acolyte is greeted with another tilting of the Weaver's head and an exchange of light conversation. Mainly the blue robed man seems interested in Shadow's opinion of recent renovations to a wing of the temple, which she informs him still needs work before she'll be satisfied.
"Shall we head inside? You seem to be feeling better, but I still want to have you accessed," she directs to Adrian once the acolyte returns to the others just before both groups start to walk back into the temple.
Zero Dream
That is all almost too much for him to take, in between the light kiss, the countless eyes staring at him, and that acolyte's glare. The last one leaves him with the feeling that he's not quite as welcome was the goddess may think, and he makes a mental note to double-check the room he will be assigned to. Simple paranoia, probably, but old habits die hard.
All of this taken into account, it takes him a moment to realize that the goddess is, in fact, talking to him now. "Probably. I think I might have something stuck in there..." It couldn't be too deep, else he probably wouldn't be walking. The true realization of exactly what lie in store for his future is yet to come, as his fingers only revealed to him that said object was cold.
All of this taken into account, it takes him a moment to realize that the goddess is, in fact, talking to him now. "Probably. I think I might have something stuck in there..." It couldn't be too deep, else he probably wouldn't be walking. The true realization of exactly what lie in store for his future is yet to come, as his fingers only revealed to him that said object was cold.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
A nod is all Adrian gets at first as she nudges him with a hip to get him into motion. She's still unsure just how she should tell him the specifics of his situation, for there is no delicate way to inform a mortal that their soul is going to be eaten alive by a presence they know nothing about beyond it being of divine origin."It doesn't have to be that complicated." Ah, she'd nearly forgotten that Alimus would be nearby now that they have returned to the temple. Not yet used to the bond she's inherited from her host, her thoughts had strayed his way. Now that she's fully aware of him the shadowkin's location is easy to pin point and reminds her to check on just where Shade is while she's at it. Predictably Alimus is by the entrance while Shade is in the chamber assigned to him, likely waiting for orders.
"I see you've decided to keep your latest pet." The jealousy that trickles through their link only draws Shadow closer to Adrian, resting her cheek against his bicep as her lips curve up in a half smile. "Behave yourself, Alimus. He is more than that. You will be polite and cease with that scowl I can feel building from here. Keep an eye on Elaine for me, please. She's far more open with her jealousy than you. No harm is to come to Adrian lest I wish it. Is that understood?"
"One wrong move from him, and ..." There is a soft mental sigh and then a feeling of grudging acceptance. "As you wish. I will go, then."
"Alimus, take your time." Fondness is projected into a feeling similar to a hand caressing the shadowkin's cheek. "We will talk later, my friend. Report back to me when you are able."
"We'll have a closer look at what's upon you when we reach the proper room." Mere seconds had passed during her mental conversation with Alimus through their link, and now she stands up straighter as she and Adrian pass under the doors' arch and into the temple itself. "This first area is often called the Chambers of Faces. If there is ever any place I could take you to see the visages of old, this is it." Now that she's mentioned it, it occurs to her that there are pieces of art honoring the Spirit Guide within, as there are for all of the pantheon as well as the dragon kings. This shifts her course as they enter the tall circular chamber, with her guiding Adrian over to the more grand of that small collection devoted to Ankou. For most of the gods the temple has at least a statue or two. Not so for the Spirit Guide. His following had been widespread, but none seemed able to decide just how he ought to be depicted. Even the carved panel of driftwood that she's bringing Adrian to stand before is rather abstract, little more than the suggestion of a masculine figure floating with outspread wings behind him. He has no face beyond the impression of a mouth, closed eyes, and the protrusion of a nose.
She doesn't pause for long, as Adrian's health is more important than her study of his face when he views that particular piece of art. "We have a healer amongst us. She is a recent addition, but she is talented in her own right. Come, her room is this way."
Zero Dream
Adrian is, of course, clueless of the mental conversation going on, only giving a somewhat puzzled glance as the goddess slides closer to him, almost possessively. honestly, by now, he is getting a bit tired, so he doesn't even question it. He does, however, send a bit of warmth her way. It felt odd that now, all of sudden, he felt better than he had in week, strange object in back not added into the equation.
He follows her, the only sound coming from him being the one his boots make as he walk along, his walking still every bit as gracious as usual - the gem is neither too low or too deep to really impede his basic movements, and if he wasn't still sore from the forced merging, his more complicated ones as well. He glances at the statues and various other things gathered there as she leads him along, but it become oblivious that she's suddenly stopping in front of a wood carving. He glances over it for a moment, with the same kind of interest he had for the other ones, and follows again after the short pause, only giving her a nod in answer.
He follows her, the only sound coming from him being the one his boots make as he walk along, his walking still every bit as gracious as usual - the gem is neither too low or too deep to really impede his basic movements, and if he wasn't still sore from the forced merging, his more complicated ones as well. He glances at the statues and various other things gathered there as she leads him along, but it become oblivious that she's suddenly stopping in front of a wood carving. He glances over it for a moment, with the same kind of interest he had for the other ones, and follows again after the short pause, only giving her a nod in answer.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
There is no sign of recognition in those bright yellow gold eyes when they grace the curves of the driftwood sculpture. Hm. No matter. It had only been a momentary curiosity, little more.With the heat he'd given her still wrapped about her heart, warming her from the inside out for as long as it lasts, she keeps their pace to one that shouldn't jostle Adrian too much. The last thing she wants is to share another mind jarring jolt of pain with him. They are heading down a hallway, its walls of the same stone as the floor. "This temple was shaped from one of the mountains itself," she explains as his boots announce just where they are going to whomever cares to hear. Her own footfalls are silent as the rest of her movements, though perhaps the bareness of her feet can explain that away. "How ironic, that I should end up here again, after all of these centuries."
Hugging her arm a bit tighter about him, she makes to turn to start down a more narrow passageway. "She likes her privacy, and she is not directly one of mine. Yet she will help us." There is no room for doubt in her words.
A stone door opens long before the pair approaches, and one of the temple cats pads around both the goddess and the pyromancer to head into the room beyond with an upraised tail swooshing its creamy white in the hazy light of a nearby wall sconce. "Come in, come in!" is chirped from inside the room, though if the feminine, and oddly "perky" sounding, voice meant the cat or those about to reach her doorway is left for the pondering.
The Weaver makes no sign of stopping, continuing on at her preset casualness to the doorway and going into a room that smells of many different kinds of herbs that strangely blend to actually be quite pleasant. It's a homey smell, the sort that reminds of a mother cooking over her wood stove. Perched on a long table piled high with bits of animal, vegetable, and mineral is a little girl with hair the color of orchids in bloom. Her legs swing under the table, her purple tinted hands busy with mortar and pestle, grinding who-knows-what with a grin making her small face seem very friendly indeed. "Hullo! The name's Pandy. Short for Pandoria, but ya dun need ta know that. So, what're ya here fer?"
Zero Dream
"I see..." The fire mage answers, eyes lingering on the feline. He might have bent to pet the pale feline if the goddess hadn't continued on her course. The mix of smell that assault his nose are a bit much at first, but the headache he thought would follow seems not to come. But then, at least, they find the one they had been looking for. Adrian can't help but raise an eyebrow.
This was Shadow's healer ? She was what, six ? Eight ? He couldn't tell. However, it wouldn't be the oddest thing he ever saw, so he lets it slide.
"I've got something stuck in my back." Man, that still was odd to think about. "Think you can do something about that ? It was pretty painful, but not so much anymore."
This was Shadow's healer ? She was what, six ? Eight ? He couldn't tell. However, it wouldn't be the oddest thing he ever saw, so he lets it slide.
"I've got something stuck in my back." Man, that still was odd to think about. "Think you can do something about that ? It was pretty painful, but not so much anymore."
