Thabara
The questioning of the Spirit Guide's servant did not yield much additional information, but he did end up with a fairly good idea of which goddess it was that had taken his brother's host under her wings. The Weaver of Shadows.. Nergal barely remembered her, having seen her only once, through Aislin's eyes, in those days early after his rebirth. To approach the Dark Mistress without an appropriate offering and ask for her favor would not be wise, he felt.
And yet.. There was so little he called his own.. To find a gift which would please her might take days, weeks even. He should take the time, especially since he had no idea how far he'd have to travel to Shadow's dwelling and thus would risk missing Echo's concert.
He should, but he already knew he wouldn't. Now that he was aware there was someone related to himself and his realm, someone truly close.. It was impossible to wait any longer than he had to - for the sun to rise and providing just enough light for him to set out for another long ride.
Ishum was already waiting for him in front of the house when he stepped out of the building, holding Falada's reins, the white equine saddled and equipped with bags holding provisions and everything needed should the trip prove to be a longer one than anticipated. Priya had come as well, offering no greeting but a cold glare. Her siira was readied in a similar fashion as his own mount, the god noticed, so she was determined to tag along despite his announcement that he would not slow down for her sake. Jinx was also nearby, nervously kneading her hands. What it must be like for her, to know her master so close yet unable to approach him, he could but only guess. He would do his best to smooth out the damage she might have wrought with her rash action, just as he had promised her.
"My liege.." Ishum slipped something into his hand, and with surprise Nergal found himself looking at a small black velvet pouch on his palm, skillfully embroidered with emerald runes which almost seemed to glow. He raised a brow and - after an encouraging nod from his beast master - opened the pouch to peer inside.
"I.. thought you should at least have something to offer to her.. I know it is small.. but it holds meaning. Forgive me if I was presumptuous." The golden winged Aoide bowed deeply.
"No.. No, it is quite alright. Even a symbolic gift will be better than to appear before Her empty-handed, and you have picked well. Thank you." After a moment's hesitation he reached out to ruffle the aoide's unruly hair, something he had never done before - else he would not have been surprised by how soft it was.. "I do not know what I would do without you." The fond compliment caused Priya to give off a cynical snort behind his back, but he ignored it.
There were other visitors present as well this morning, feathered ones. Dozens of the large black birds were flocking on the nearby trees, staring down at the small group with beady eyes, their excited caws almost deafening in the silence of the early morning. At least he knew now why they had been assisting him - they had remembered where his own memory of old pacts had failed him.
Nergal carefully stored the small pouch away in the depths of his coat, for the first time wishing he'd possess something less tattered and more appropriate to wear.. Too late now to worry about it though. He mounted his horse and - the hint of a smile on his face and looking at the crows expectantly - offered his right arm as a perch. He did not even flinch when the claws of the large bird tore into his flesh. "Show me where to find my brother," the young god whispered, "make haste."
And yet.. There was so little he called his own.. To find a gift which would please her might take days, weeks even. He should take the time, especially since he had no idea how far he'd have to travel to Shadow's dwelling and thus would risk missing Echo's concert.
He should, but he already knew he wouldn't. Now that he was aware there was someone related to himself and his realm, someone truly close.. It was impossible to wait any longer than he had to - for the sun to rise and providing just enough light for him to set out for another long ride.
Ishum was already waiting for him in front of the house when he stepped out of the building, holding Falada's reins, the white equine saddled and equipped with bags holding provisions and everything needed should the trip prove to be a longer one than anticipated. Priya had come as well, offering no greeting but a cold glare. Her siira was readied in a similar fashion as his own mount, the god noticed, so she was determined to tag along despite his announcement that he would not slow down for her sake. Jinx was also nearby, nervously kneading her hands. What it must be like for her, to know her master so close yet unable to approach him, he could but only guess. He would do his best to smooth out the damage she might have wrought with her rash action, just as he had promised her.
"My liege.." Ishum slipped something into his hand, and with surprise Nergal found himself looking at a small black velvet pouch on his palm, skillfully embroidered with emerald runes which almost seemed to glow. He raised a brow and - after an encouraging nod from his beast master - opened the pouch to peer inside.
"I.. thought you should at least have something to offer to her.. I know it is small.. but it holds meaning. Forgive me if I was presumptuous." The golden winged Aoide bowed deeply.
"No.. No, it is quite alright. Even a symbolic gift will be better than to appear before Her empty-handed, and you have picked well. Thank you." After a moment's hesitation he reached out to ruffle the aoide's unruly hair, something he had never done before - else he would not have been surprised by how soft it was.. "I do not know what I would do without you." The fond compliment caused Priya to give off a cynical snort behind his back, but he ignored it.
There were other visitors present as well this morning, feathered ones. Dozens of the large black birds were flocking on the nearby trees, staring down at the small group with beady eyes, their excited caws almost deafening in the silence of the early morning. At least he knew now why they had been assisting him - they had remembered where his own memory of old pacts had failed him.
Nergal carefully stored the small pouch away in the depths of his coat, for the first time wishing he'd possess something less tattered and more appropriate to wear.. Too late now to worry about it though. He mounted his horse and - the hint of a smile on his face and looking at the crows expectantly - offered his right arm as a perch. He did not even flinch when the claws of the large bird tore into his flesh. "Show me where to find my brother," the young god whispered, "make haste."
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
Perhaps the last place on Gaia that the Lord of the Underworld would have expected to find the Weaver of Shadows is on the peak of the second tallest of the Soul Shard Mountains, waiting for the sun to make its ascent and paint the clouds in its golden glory. Yet there she is, steeling herself in the fading dark, facing off against one of her greatest weaknesses.There was a time when she did not internally cringe at the thought of that bright orb's rays caressing her flesh, but she is yet far from regaining that sort of resistance now. But this goddess has tired of hiding from this reminder of her present state. Let the sun come. Let Light's precious warmer of soil and skin alike bring its painful sting. She will endure, and far from Alimus so he feels as little of it as possible.
"I must remain," she reminds her twitching limbs as the sky starts to brighten. There is the barest crack of orange and red on the horizon, but she allows herself the luxury of not looking at it directly. Her shadows are as much a product of the light that will soon announce the beginning of a brand new day as they are of the brooding night's shroud. She is between their worlds, one who is neutral in more than declaration. She is on the razor thin line she calls the Balance, but already she's begun to teeter. To face this lingering fear she hopes will help bring back a portion of the grace stolen from her balancing act by the news of Adrian being claimed.
Leaning back, she plants her silvery gray palms on the mountaintop as she sighs. There is so much to do, and she lacks the proper allies to bring down her lofty goals to the point where she can brush aside their cobwebs and search out what lurks in their corners. Hm ... Well, perhaps progress has been made with certain individuals seeking her out as they have. "Sesostris, you made it no secret what you hope to gain from renewing our arrangement. We'll just have to see how deep your hunger gnaws over the coming days." Beryl is ever with her, as well. Their power base seems as if wound together, with only the ends of the two branches trailing off in the directions that interest them. This Ankou may yet prove to be of use, though ... She pushes aside a flicker of resentment and uncertainty, once against affixing to her resolve. Her Weave seems to have woven its threads about her heart more steadily as the days go by, whether in an effort to bring her back to herself all the faster or desperation to escape the devastation of the Shadow Plane, she truly cannot tell. Her gratitude that the one called the Voice has yet to figure out how to worm his control into it soon replaces what her Weave had filled her heart with earlier. If he ever should, he'd have a direct line to tap into her. Shuddering once, she closes her eyes to shut out the sight of what she knows will swell and feel as if burning her any minute. Better that then to be a puppet on a string for a being she doesn't know near enough about.
Her bracelets slide down her left wrist as she straightens her arms, and that evokes a small smile. Even out here, with all of her followers and adopted little ones a good distance away, this jewelry of hers serves as a reminder that she's never truly alone. This is something she lacked in her last life, material possessions that meant something beyond leverage against someone else. Even her own creations beyond the Weave were merely tools. She shifts on the grass she's half curled on, reaching up with her right hand to brush the malachite Ingall she always wears with a softening of her smile.
Her thoughts start to wander to those of her Jeremiah and what he might be dreaming about when her eyes dart open and the goddess sits up to extend her left arm out for a blur of dark blue to nearly collide into with a flustered flapping of weary wings. What looks to be tiny stars glow within the deepness of those feathers, and tired blue eyes look to the worried ones of the Weaver as Shadow's dream whirrs a tiny chirrup of greetings. "Hush, my dear Laele, hush," the Weaver croons, bringing the small form closer so full lips can peck lightly just above those entrancing blue eyes, "You were gone all night. You mustn't be thorough to the point of exhausting yourself, my Listener. Rest for now."
Wings fold in and around the dream as she scoots up her bond's arm to Shadow's shoulder, then tucking her head under the goddess's chin with a sound as close to a purr as she can manage. She knows that her bond loves that noise so, after all. Then she finally allows herself to be still, storing up energy so she can relay what she's learned for her bond's sake.
A finger gently pets what Shadow's come to think as the dream's chest as both dream and goddess face the rising sun, waiting to see what fate chooses to toss to the winds and send spiraling their way.
Thabara
It was around noon on the first day of his journey when Nergal realized he'd have to make a rather unpleasant decision - to either break off his trip and return to the city now, or to continue and miss Echo's concert for sure - neither sat well with him. For some reason he had imagined Shadow's chosen dwelling wouldn't be all that far away - most of the Reborn seemed to prefer to stick close to the Pantheon after all - but the crow which was guiding his way was still circling far above, giving no indication whatsoever that they had come any closer to their goal. Underworld sighed and raised his arm, waiting for the black bird to notice he wanted a little 'talk' with it, and for Priya to catch up to him. If this trip was going to take longer, he would need their assistance.
"How far is it, do you know?" The crow perched on his arm peered at him curiously with too intelligent eyes and - finally - nodded. "More than a days worth of travel?" Another jerky nod. Nergal sighed. Damn.
"You know," Priya said dryly, not even trying to keep the smugness from her voice, "you really should have thought of asking this before you decided to leave head over heels to meet your long-lost brother whom you didn't even know of yesterday. You're lucky Ishum and I packed everything.. Were you always this rash?"
"I.. don't think so," Nergal murmured distractedly. Though that may well have been due to the confinements of my own domain and ruling.. "How many days?" he asked the bird, watching closely as he counted the abrupt nods to not miss a single one of them. One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Inwardly he winced. He'd be away for a full week? Two even, since he had yet to get back somehow. What if Lord Illumin returned while he was gone? But..
Ankou.. Spirit Guide.. Brother.. Someone else who'd see the Dead, hear the Dead.. Someone to share the burden with.. Now that he knew of him, he had to meet, had to--
This could not wait.
Besides, Ishum was still around, tending to Lady Gaia - should Illumin really return within these two weeks, he trusted the aoide would be smart enough to act in his interest.
"Do we have enough provisions for a week?" Nergal asked, having made up his mind.
"A week? Certainly. And I can still hunt and scout. That is," the feline added not without sarcasm, "if you slow down enough for me to actually be of use for you..?"
"But of course," the God said slowly, his cheeks darkening a little with embarrassment, feeling that some sort of apology was in order. "I do not consider your services to be worthless, never would. It is just.. I have become a terribly impatient person, it seems. Or maybe I have always been that way.." His voice trailed off and he shrugged. His 'brother' would know the answer to this, perhaps.
They made it to the Soul Shard Mountains on the early morning of the eight day. The inhabitants of the village they'd spent the night in had given them the name of the mountain range, and also whispered rumors of the secrets and promises it held. Priya had curled up for the night soon enough, exhausted from the long trip. But Nergal, who required no sleep, had been more inclined to listen, managing to cling to one and the same glass of liquor for the whole evening when the innkeeper had insisted on giving out a drink, and leaving it mostly untouched .
Sisters.. The villagers had spoken of a sacred Temple of Sisters. The Weaver must be one of them, but Nergal couldn't help but wonder who the other one might be.
***
"How far is it, do you know?" The crow perched on his arm peered at him curiously with too intelligent eyes and - finally - nodded. "More than a days worth of travel?" Another jerky nod. Nergal sighed. Damn.
"You know," Priya said dryly, not even trying to keep the smugness from her voice, "you really should have thought of asking this before you decided to leave head over heels to meet your long-lost brother whom you didn't even know of yesterday. You're lucky Ishum and I packed everything.. Were you always this rash?"
"I.. don't think so," Nergal murmured distractedly. Though that may well have been due to the confinements of my own domain and ruling.. "How many days?" he asked the bird, watching closely as he counted the abrupt nods to not miss a single one of them. One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Inwardly he winced. He'd be away for a full week? Two even, since he had yet to get back somehow. What if Lord Illumin returned while he was gone? But..
Ankou.. Spirit Guide.. Brother.. Someone else who'd see the Dead, hear the Dead.. Someone to share the burden with.. Now that he knew of him, he had to meet, had to--
This could not wait.
Besides, Ishum was still around, tending to Lady Gaia - should Illumin really return within these two weeks, he trusted the aoide would be smart enough to act in his interest.
"Do we have enough provisions for a week?" Nergal asked, having made up his mind.
"A week? Certainly. And I can still hunt and scout. That is," the feline added not without sarcasm, "if you slow down enough for me to actually be of use for you..?"
"But of course," the God said slowly, his cheeks darkening a little with embarrassment, feeling that some sort of apology was in order. "I do not consider your services to be worthless, never would. It is just.. I have become a terribly impatient person, it seems. Or maybe I have always been that way.." His voice trailed off and he shrugged. His 'brother' would know the answer to this, perhaps.
***
They made it to the Soul Shard Mountains on the early morning of the eight day. The inhabitants of the village they'd spent the night in had given them the name of the mountain range, and also whispered rumors of the secrets and promises it held. Priya had curled up for the night soon enough, exhausted from the long trip. But Nergal, who required no sleep, had been more inclined to listen, managing to cling to one and the same glass of liquor for the whole evening when the innkeeper had insisted on giving out a drink, and leaving it mostly untouched .
Sisters.. The villagers had spoken of a sacred Temple of Sisters. The Weaver must be one of them, but Nergal couldn't help but wonder who the other one might be.
Zero Dream
Adrian was one of those people that always were up early, unless he was extremely sick. And since he's had more than enough time to recover from his little drinking escapade, he was as bright and early than the goddess which lingered outside. He headed his way out of the temple for some fresh air."Awfully early to be up at this time, lady Shadow." There he was, the one who belonged to neither goddesses - he wore no masks to identify himself as Shadow's acolyte, and no purple robes to identify himself was Wind's, he who in fact belonged to a third entity who had entered the situation rather unexpectedly. He wore a simple, black leather trenchcoat he had found in his room to shield himself from the chilly air, as well as his usual shirt, jeans, and gloves. Still, he's felt into the habit to add honorifics - it spared him from both the looks the acolyte shot him over the "apparent disrespect" and the prods Ankou gave him ever now and then to show himself a bit more respectful. "I thought you would still be with Jeremiah at this time..." It was hard to be around the goddess and not at least know the other man by name - it made him smile a bit. She cared for him so much, she could see it in the way her sea-green and gray eyes lit up every time she spoke of him. Perhaps he would get to meet him before...
Better not to think of that.
He had barely even spoken that one crow zoomed through the air above them, circling the deity and the mortal for a moment before starting it's decent and landing square on one of Adrian's wide shoulders, the thick leather of the trenchcoat protecting him from the claws that sunk in to secure the bird's perch. The redhead just stared blankly at the bird for a moment. What the hell ? There was an urge, a small twitch in his arm, and in his surprise, he didn't resist it - one gloved hand went up to pet the black feathers, and the bird seemed content.
Once the shock of the bird's emergence faded, he noticed something, eyes squinting a bit to try to discern the mounted shapes that were making their way upward. "...Seems like there are visitors, I should probably make myself scarce..."
No.
Ankou... ?
The crow brought them here. Someone... has come looking for us.
The look on Adrian's face just then would probably reveal much of their inner conversation to the goddess watching it.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
Had she heard him coming up the rarely used path she'd tread to be where she sits now? Of course she had. Had she reacted before he spoke? No, she remained still till those inquiring words further confirmed exactly who has sought her out. Her head turns then, the conquering dawn lending a ruddy glow to her face's once pale seeming complexion. Spun gold waves are set afire in that light, highlights the moon's glow could never fully bring to life shining almost like a halo about her captivating countenance as full and rosy lips curve up in a pleased little smile. Darkness clings to her back, avoiding the sunshine as it steadily creeps over the rock face. Her wings twitch open, as if to provide her shadow a place to hide from the coming day. Between the promise of morning and the stubborn ghost of the night's rule, she lingers to gaze up at the man who slipped through her fingers before she'd even begun to curl them closed. Or has he?Laele remains where she is, for the dream is exhausted. Nothing short of someone or something directly threatening her or her bond will bid her to move from the nook between her bond's throat and shoulder. The Weaver forgives this lack of response, beckoning with her right hand for Adrian to join her. "Early for some, perhaps, though those of Summerfell rise at this hour and oft times still earlier. As do many of those who tend to their duties within the temple. Come, sit by me if you like."
She hadn't expected to feel relief at seeing him like this, during a time when she's already had to tighten the reins on her concentration to avoid trembling for the prickle of pain wherever the sunlight strikes at her flesh. Having experienced far worse makes it no easier to bear as that feeling increases. Eventually she will have to flee and retreat to the safety of the temple's walls, but not yet. Yes, she can hold on for a while yet.
Adrian likely hasn't noticed the way that the goddess looks to him fondly, and in constant repetition. His thoughts have been pulled here and there, so who can blame him? There is a hint, a glimmer of the inner light that Jeremiah or Shade's names bring to her eyes that shines when the fire mage is near or his name is spoken. To his credit, this is easily hidden when compared to the glow the previous two evoke, and she does so often. Now is one of the rare moments that she doesn't catch its shine, but it's soon drawn within when Adrian's expression twists. Her pain gains an edge when her Weave eagerly supplies her heart with a tug of concern.
The crow that settles on the fire mage's arm is eyed warily from the goddess's grassy perch. It doesn't seem a threat, but that doesn't ease her tension any more than if it were eight feet tall and cawing a challenge. Naturally it is one of his minions. Ankou had many crows ...
Sweet air and blessed freedom. Black wings all around, matching the pace of hers as they fly for what feels like forever. If only it could be so ...
Voices. So many voices. Others may not appreciate what they have to say, but she listens closely. They have seen much, heard much. They share snippets, little treasures. Only enough to pass the time. Such gossip mongers, these feathered ones ...
"What was that?" she queries of herself, her distrust of the bird fading to a quiet astonishment. Does she know this animal? No, that isn't possible. It is mortal, isn't it? Yet ... She puzzles over that some as she makes to rise. Slowly, and with the incalculable grace of one accustomed to the ways of silence as well as song, Shadow gets to her feet and calmly closes the distance between her and her guest. She was about to ask over the sudden appearance of the crow, but then she spies what Adrian did earlier. "Visitors? A pilgrimage from the village, perhaps."
"Oh, sure. Just a bunch of mortals hiking up the mountain right as dawn breaks. Oh, pardon me, riding up the mountain. Never mind the fact that the villagers tend to visit come dusk, out of respect for 'The Sisters' and their preference for the evening hours."
Ignoring her host's obvious sarcasm, Shadow instead focuses on what is unusual. "This seems a morning full of surprises. How long have you been awake, Eirnae?"
"I take heart in the fact that you sounded sincere when you asked me that, Mel." There is a faint chuckle in the recesses of the goddess's mind, and then, "You aren't going to tell him what you suspect, are you? No need to keep him in the dark, Mel. He seems bright enough to have caught on to the possibilities here."
"Shall we meet them at the crossroads?" she suggests, a hand brushing its soft if icy skin across Adrian's free arm towards the wrist. She doesn't wait for him to respond before setting out on her own, though her pace is casual enough for him to catch up easily.
Whether Adrian chooses to accompany her or not, the small group can expect to be met where the area of the temple's protection ends and the test to see if these visitors to the Soul Shard Mountains mean those of the Temple of Whispers harm begins.
Thabara
Twilight still remained at the base of the mountains, the air still chilly and crisp so early in the morning, causing the breath of at least one of the travelers to emerge in puffy little clouds as they exhaled. It would probably take at least another hour for the sun to rise high enough to cast its warming rays into the gorge they were following and, if at all.
The sun..
Nergal craned his neck to look up at the sky, thoroughly enjoying the chilly breeze which bit into the skin of his face. It had been so long since he had last been able to look at the uncovered sky, since the air he breathed had last been so clear and unspoilt.. "Truly, this land is blessed," he mused, mostly to himself. A faint smile tugged on the corner of the god's lips - who knew, he might even be able to see the stars from here.
"My Lord, this is.." Priya didn't bring her sentence to an end, too busy was she looking left and right, her ears swiveling around as they picked up the sounds of birdsong, small rodents flitting from hiding place to hiding place, the hum of insects.. Even though it seemed barren at a first glance, this land was so full of life!
"I know.." Nergal inclined his head slightly. No small wonder Priya would be so full of excitement, when she had come to be Destruction's rule already had left its mark everywhere - this was the first time for her to catch a glimpse at the world as it should be. Even to him it felt like a weight had been taken from his shoulders, raising his usually gloomy mood significantly - enough to forget about that strange voice for a while which had been haunting him, or the fact that he owed Echo one hell of an apology once they made their return.
"Someone is protecting these lands.." He looked up once more, frowning slightly as he noticed that the crow which had been guiding them was nowhere to be seen. It didn't matter, for now the path to follow was clear and the bird would probably return soon enough. Perhaps it had found some carcass to feed from.
"I wonder what the temple will look like..?"
Nergal simply shrugged. "Some small shrine perhaps?" he suggested, not entirely serious. In these surroundings it was more likely to expect some sort of fortress hewn into the massive rock. But it had indeed been impossible to get something akin to a description out of the villagers, they either didn't know, or they didn't want to tell. They'd find out soon enough anyway - considering Shadow's nature, it would probably be hidden in plain si--
The young god's thoughts came to a stuttering halt when the landscape before them shifted unexpectedly and revealed its secrets, and Priya was the first of them to put their astonishment into words: "Some 'small shrine' my a**."
The sun..
Nergal craned his neck to look up at the sky, thoroughly enjoying the chilly breeze which bit into the skin of his face. It had been so long since he had last been able to look at the uncovered sky, since the air he breathed had last been so clear and unspoilt.. "Truly, this land is blessed," he mused, mostly to himself. A faint smile tugged on the corner of the god's lips - who knew, he might even be able to see the stars from here.
"My Lord, this is.." Priya didn't bring her sentence to an end, too busy was she looking left and right, her ears swiveling around as they picked up the sounds of birdsong, small rodents flitting from hiding place to hiding place, the hum of insects.. Even though it seemed barren at a first glance, this land was so full of life!
"I know.." Nergal inclined his head slightly. No small wonder Priya would be so full of excitement, when she had come to be Destruction's rule already had left its mark everywhere - this was the first time for her to catch a glimpse at the world as it should be. Even to him it felt like a weight had been taken from his shoulders, raising his usually gloomy mood significantly - enough to forget about that strange voice for a while which had been haunting him, or the fact that he owed Echo one hell of an apology once they made their return.
"Someone is protecting these lands.." He looked up once more, frowning slightly as he noticed that the crow which had been guiding them was nowhere to be seen. It didn't matter, for now the path to follow was clear and the bird would probably return soon enough. Perhaps it had found some carcass to feed from.
"I wonder what the temple will look like..?"
Nergal simply shrugged. "Some small shrine perhaps?" he suggested, not entirely serious. In these surroundings it was more likely to expect some sort of fortress hewn into the massive rock. But it had indeed been impossible to get something akin to a description out of the villagers, they either didn't know, or they didn't want to tell. They'd find out soon enough anyway - considering Shadow's nature, it would probably be hidden in plain si--
The young god's thoughts came to a stuttering halt when the landscape before them shifted unexpectedly and revealed its secrets, and Priya was the first of them to put their astonishment into words: "Some 'small shrine' my a**."
Zero Dream
The crow spares the goddess a small, curious glance, but that is all, for now at least. No, the center of it's attention is, in fact, Adrian. Apparently, it wants more pets, but it seems they would not be given just yet, the black bird flapping his wings to keep balance as the redhead suddenly goes into motion to follow the goddess down the path.Who do you think it might be then ?
A good question, which I unfortunately do not know the answer of... Perhaps when they get closer...
Once he's caught up with the lady Shadow, he slides into a slower pace, hands reaching into the pockets of the trenchcoat for warmth. Both god and host were pensive - who would be seeking them out... ?
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
The Weaver's pace remains unhurried. even after Adrian comes to fall into step beside her. Her garment shifts as she moves, the many layers of its skirts' delicate seeming and shimmery black fabric splitting open to reveal the shapely muscles along the outside of each of her legs. Tendrils of her element glide around her middle as if the arms of a lover, solidifying into an intricately braided leather belt when they meet just under her navel. The once simple and loose upper portion of her gown tightens to better show off curves that are not yet fully hers, its neckline dipping down to give a glimpse of smooth and barely tanned skin. This only serves to bring more attention to her ever present Ingall necklace, which she strokes once as if to assure herself it's still there. The long and billowing sleeves of her outfit separate themselves from the rest of her clothing, becoming still longer as their tops wind about her biceps snugly. Now they drift in the slightest of breezes, their layers of thin but soft materials floating behind her like the lace of a bride's veil as she continues to walk with an otherworldly calm outward demeanor.Normally she would be covering her features with a large and somewhat formless black cloak, but not this time. Eirnae was correct in that this visit doesn't feel as if from the village, at least not directly. Someone else has come to seek out the temple, though who and why are only hinted upon when her steps bring her close enough to make out the more simple of details of the mountains' guests. Her Weave caresses her from within, encouraging forth a near silent sigh. "What brings you to our temple, Nergal?" she wonders as her approach finally places her at the beginning of the boulder lined path that leads up to the temple's main grounds. With Adrian beside her, his hands in his pockets and a pensive look on his face, she offers the still mounted pair a slight smile and a sweeping gesture of her hands that encompasses them both. "To what do we owe the pleasure of such a visit? Had you informed me ahead of time, dear Judge, there might have been a grander welcome waiting for you."
Laele stirs on her bond's shoulder, lifting up her head to stare up at Nergal with her bright blue eyes. Starry wings flutter with sudden nervous energy, only tucked back once more when the goddess's left hand rises to pet the dream under what can be considered her chin. The low sound of grinding gears is accompanied then by a twittering warble of birdsong, all from the same fluffed up source.
"I presume you have not made the acquaintance of my present company," she continues, her right arm sliding to encircle Adrian's left, "He calls himself Adrian. The rest I leave up to him if he cares to share it. My feathered companion is Laele. Do pardon her behavior, she's ever been protective of me." It's hard to tell whether it is amusement or appreciation that brightens the goddess's eyes when she references her dream. Perhaps it's better said to be a bit of each. "Ah, and the name of she who accompanies you escapes me at the moment. You have my apologies for that, miss, for I feel as if I ought to know you."
"Laying it on a bit thick, aren't we?"
"Oh hush. One gets more flies with honey, and so forth."
"Mmhmm ... Plan on plucking the wings off of these flies once you've stuck them?"
Once again ignoring her host's sarcasm, she ceases petting her dream to gesture towards the path. "From the looks upon your faces I need not worry over whether you can see the way or not. I would suggest you dismount, however, as the way ahead is rather narrow." She pauses, recovering her arm from Adrian's to the point that only the fingers of that hand rest upon his forearm. "I had thought the Pantheon's knowledge of this place lost. I have no doubt that such has played a part in what's kept it protected for so long. Surely you have witnessed the lessening of Destruction's influence here? I will not have him intrude if I can help it, father or no."
Shifting her gaze from those before her, she looks over to what's visible of the temple that's served as her home in recent years. Even from here it's obvious that there is life within the massive building. The glow of candles being lit and fireplaces being stoked beckon from openings that serve as windows. Folk are already trickling out to attend to their outdoor chores, with the gardens and orchards needing tending to. Throughout it all the larger than life statues of the goddesses watch over their followers, ever linked where their fingers touch together. A reminder of the sisterhood those statues represent is about her left wrist, her smile becoming more genuine when her thoughts go to it.
Facing Nergal and his defender once more, her right wing unfolds and curls around Adrian from behind. This is a silent declaration, meant for the young god before her. She's partly guessed why he's here and who he's come to see, but she won't let him take that individual away without a fight. Why would she think this? Well, Nergal's had every chance for many a month to seek her or Beryl out, and he hasn't. In fact the entire Pantheon seems to have not given a damn about where Wind and Shadow went off to. Yet here is Adrian, freshly implanted with a gem, and the Lord of the Underworld is at the Sisters' doorstep. How quaint.
She goes eerily still, the only signs that she'd step aside if Adrian asked it of her somewhat revealed in the tender manner her hand remains on his arm as well as the hint of compassion in those gray framed sea green eyes of hers. "That is if you'd care to add to your journey and see what my sister and I have felt is worth protecting?"
Thabara
Nergal inclined his head politely as he acknowledged the goddess' greeting. "I would have announced my coming, dear Lady, had I known where it was that we were heading, or when to arrive - I have not forgotten the old customs. But alas, that very crow on your companion's shoulder is the only guide we had." His eyes rested on the redhead's face for a moment - he was without doubt the one he had come for - before he dismounted and stepped forward, directing his attention towards the Weaver once more."My apologies," Nergal said and bowed, in a way which was very very typical for the chtonic deity: Respectful, yes, but neither an inch to deep, nor a moment too long - just barely enough to be appropriate. "But at the very least you can rest assured that the secrecy of your sanctuary remains unharmed. It is safe still, as much as it can be in this time and age." His grey eyes swiveled towards the massive structure hewn into the rock of the Soul Shard Mountains. "I have to admit, I am much impressed by that which you and your sister achieved here - a.. 'tour' at a later time would be much appreciated." He nodded slightly, assuming that was enough of a hint that he and his guardian were quite weary from their journey.
He motioned his Aoide to come forward, and the cat girl obeyed immediately, slipping from her saddle and kneeling gracefully at her Lord's side. "This is Priya, my personal guardian and faithful servant - I entrust her with my life." Another motion of his hand, and the feline raised, quietly stepping back to gather up the reins of her own mount and Underworld's.
"As for the occasion of my visit.." There was a thin, listless smile upon the god-king's lips as he watched Shadow taking the Spirit Guide's host under her wings quite literally. She was fond of him, obviously. "You already know."
Zero Dream
...So, who is he ? Adrian felt a bit uncomfortable in this divine meeting, so to speak, so he instead turned inward for any possible explanation as to what the hell was going on.She called him the Judge... I... The god paused for a moment, and then seemed to remember. ...Of course, how could I... He looks different, much different....
And then it happened. There was a tidal wave - feelings, names, as if the god inside the gem was afraid he'd forget them if he did not speak of them. A world below the earth, starless yet beautiful if you knew how to seek out it's beauty. Home, a place to go to, a place where he could truly be himself. The maker, the keeper, the judge, brother...
The goddess could feel the fire mage suddenly tense under her wing, the onslaught not exactly painful but incredibly weird, as if the lines in between host and god at blurred for a moment.
For the love of everything, don't do that again !
I did not mean to do this. Even the god himself sounded a little miffed. Apparently most of his inner feelings were not intended to be revealed.
That was it. Apparently Adrian wouldn't get much more from Ankou at the moment, as the latter was apparently focused on the one he now knew as Nergal. Still, the redhead isn't quite sure what to do with this situation - he suddenly had the interest of more deities that he'd even thought he would meet in his lifetime. Shadow's cool wing at his back is strangely comforting, and right now, staying silent seemed like the best course of action. It made sense if the other had sought him out if he was host to his brother, but what exactly did he plan to do ? After all, he was not Ankou. Not yet. Not for a long as he could get away with.
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
If she had been bristling at all, Nergal's display of manners smooths them down with graceful ease. He'd always been a fine negotiator, but one must be if they are the Overseer of Souls, or so Shadow thinks. Of course she only remembers so much before past events start to blur together.She does not leave Adrian's side, though her upper body does dip down briefly as a way of showing equal respect for her guest. "Your compliment is appreciated, and I shall pass it on to our sister. I further appreciate your willingness to aid in keeping this sanctuary as it is meant to be, a safe haven for any who seek it out."
"Any apology from you carries great weight, no matter how small, so I accept it. Yet you need not offer it again in the future, brother. You have found our temple and seen such for what it is, and thus you are welcome from hereafter. You and your Priya. But come, we have much to discuss, and I'd prefer to do so out of the open." In this she spares any need for admittance of weariness from her guests, gently nudging Adrian to encourage him to walk with her as she starts for the path between the many boulders ahead.
It's some sort of miracle that kept her upright earlier, when Ankou had come forth and set Adrian's mind reeling with memories far too old for the mortal to fully comprehend. As sensitive as she is to the emotional conditions of those around her, the suddenness of it very nearly sent her reeling. With a combination of her host's and her own methods of gathering up her mental reserves and steeling her awareness, she'd managed to keep talking without a hitch to her words or a tremble in her movements. It's the aftershocks that bring a little tremble as she soundlessly takes one step after another to be closer to her haven from the rising sun and the dawning realization that more is about to change, and much faster, than she'd counted on. Her wing about Adrian curls in a bit more, as if intending to hug him. It's her only outward display of support beyond her physical nearness.
"Adrian," she prompts in her silky whisper, tossing her voice to caress the hollow of the pyromancer's ear, "It is his want to visit with you. He's traveled far. Please humor him. He may not be family to you yet, but he's dear to the one you carry ... as I'm sure you know. The Judge is a fair one, though in the past he saw not beyond the verdict of his laws. His time with his host may have softened his stance some. The only means to discover just how much is to shatter the silence." A pause, and then the feathers of her wing brush at his cheek. "I will not leave you till you ask it of me."
Directing her head up just a bit, the smoky edged green of her eyes fixes upon Nergal's face. "We have a stable for your mounts, if you wish to make use of it. I invite you both within, lest you wish to continue this in the comfort of one of the gardens. I will not be opposed to either setting."
Thabara
"Your sister.. I would like to meet her - if there is a chance to do so while I am here - to pay my respects." It wasn't like he had grown fond of socializing all of a sudden, even though his visit to Lucius had turned out to be a pleasant experience, but he would be a fool to not try and at least make her acquaintance. And perhaps.. perhaps it would be possible to establish some sort of basis for later ties and relationships. He wasn't sure what he'd have to offer now, but in the past at least Underworld's favors had been much sought after. After all, all their followers were mostly mortal and thus inevitably spiraling towards their End. And once their souls cast off their shriveled mortal shell, they would be his to take care of.He gazed at the massive structure they were heading to, wondering if it came with its own funeral grounds, if the cult of The Sisters held rites for their dead. It may have been a good thing he came all the way out here, Nergal realized, not only for the sake to get to know his 'brother' he barely knew anything about. Even if it did mean he'd missed Echo's concert in his folly-- He would have to apologize to her, he realized. Not only because he had managed to miss the 'big event', but also for leaving without further notice again and those weeks upon weeks he had kept avoiding her beforehand - which had been a quite foolish thing to do. Why was it that he realized this only now..? The lessening of Destruction's influence perhaps, but there was no way he could be sure of it.
"That is much appreciated," he commented upon Melanctha's offer, her soft words having interrupted his train of thoughts. "And the inside is just fine.. I prefer the shades and twilight over broad daylight myself, really. Though," he hesitated for but a moment before he spilled the question which had bugged him ever since he had laid eyes upon the uncovered skies over the Sisters' temple, "is it possible to see the stars from here at night?"
He cast a quick, curious sidewards glance at the man Shadow had introduced as 'Adrian' while he was waiting for the Lady's answer. The way the boy's body had tensed before had not escaped him, and Nergal kept wondering what had been the occasion for this kind of reaction. Recognition? That was indeed what he was hoping for, but the gem had only been implanted at such a short time before, so this might prove to be naught but wishful thinking of his end.. especially considering his own lack of memories. For, until Ishum and Jinx had told him about Ankou, he hadn't even known he'd had a brother..
Zero Dream
The only sign that the goddess would get that he had understood would be a small twitch in the ear facing her. This was just peachy. So he was supposed to humor gods now ? Ah, completely peachy. Of course, Ankou agreed wholeheartedly with that idea. The pyromancer could feel it. Also he saw the question coming eons before it did come.May I...
Go for it. It's not like I can stop you. He gave a visible shrug. The fact that the god even bothered to ask was enough to make him lean into a yes, for now. And it was just speaking... there was way, way worse that could be done. He didn't want to think about being a prisoner of his own mind just get, so he shoved the thought away as far as he could.
This was an odd sensation. He could feel his lips twitching - not quite move, even as he could feel the god struggling. No dice. A small grumble came from the back of his head. This was almost amusing, but he tried to derail both his amusement and the god's irritation (which, at any case, he would probably feel the brunt of, ence the deviation tactics) in one simple question.
Say, if this Nergal is your brother, and Shadow called him brother too, does this means she's your sister ? It just seemed odd that he hadn't mentioned it. Maybe he hadn't remembered.
It doesn't really work that way. You are thinking from a mortal way of thinking, which of course is normal for you, but not quite the answer in this case. We all come from two deities, who created us all, directly or indirectly through their first children. In this sense, you could say we are all related. Nergal and I are... closer. Like mortal siblings, I could say.
But then why did it feel like he was missing something ? No matter. The tugging continued, until the god gave up, less he tires himself out. I must be still too weak.
...That stinks. Oddly, the pyromancer sounded genuine. Even if the situation he was in sucked, he could almost relate to this. If someone important to him, if his family was there, right in front of him, and he had no way to acknowledge himself to them... That was quite an horrible thought.
Then, let's try this... Tell me what you want to say...
The god remained speechless for a moment. ...Adrian. Thank you.
Consider it a favor to return later, if you will. His lips tugged in a smirk for a moment, but settled down before his head turned to get a good look at Nergal, one of his hand taking Melanctha's so she could keep him from smashing head first in a boulder. "The stars can in fact be seen. The roof is the best place for them, or the gardens. They're easy to see, since there is rarely a cloud in the sky. They... look different from what I seem to remember. Some are missing. The sky seems almost bruised and broken." The words were spoken a bit oddly, they seemed a bit flat where as there probably should have been worry along with them.
Just as if he had been relying words not his own.
Adrian frowned a bit. "...Destruction's influence must be wide-spread. I could feel it, when we where in the city."
Eirnae Slytherin-Natenhar
The temple is going to a take a while to get to, especially since their stride is at a relaxed pace. The grounds are expansive, with the gardens beckoning from either side and just around the tall stone building. The path they are following extends past the craggy stones that her guidance kept Adrian from colliding into on more than one occasion. It smooths out from its slight winding to a straight line, meant to guide visitors right up to the temple entrance.She had been about to answer Nergal, but then Shadow chooses to remain silent to allow Adrian to act as the go-between for the two siblings. The pyromancer's hand gets an assuring squeeze of encouragement. The goddess approves of his choice, for even in the past when her heart was guided by borrowed threads family was important to her. It's not till Adrian comments on the sky and Destruction's influence that her whisper trails after his words. "The world is in chaos, slowly spiraling to a bitter end. The skies crack, the soil bleeds, and mortals have few places to run."
There is a semblance of sorrow in her expression as she turns to regard the temple they are gradually getting closer to, even as she addresses both the young god and his guardian as well as the flame haired man whose hand she has yet to let go of. "Your brother speaks true, Judge. The sky is visible here. The faith of those gathered in the name of the Sisters keeps this place safe from a great deal of the contamination of the Balance, at least for now." She doesn't feel the need to point out that the barrier in place around the temple grounds is an ancient one, one that is being supported by the faith of those she mentioned rather than having been made as a result of it. Her visible mood shifts to one of amusement as she adds, "Beryl should be here, brother. We will call upon her later, if you still desire to. You may also want to meet her daughter, Tera Ilana. Be warned, however. My niece will likely have you wrapped about her pinky finger before you take your leave."
Ah yes, humor. That's something she's been meaning to enjoy more. Now is as good a time as any to indulge. "When we enter, please watch for the cats. They tend to get underfoot. We have a few that like to go for ankles without warning. They seem to get a kick out of watching folk jump like rabbits."
