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[Xeen] Compendium Chapter 18
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With a determined effort Thai sat up, although not without help from 
Cari. "We have to find the way out of here first. Has anyone seen a doorway?"
--Phaedra Whitlock

"Peeyoooouuu!  Wheew!  I should say that you all definitely need to wash!" 
came the unearthly (unifreannly?) voice of Xeen.

Suddenly, with the sound of a pop, Zephyr has cleaned up and standing before
everyone in clean, sparkling white robes.  On top of the robes he wore a 
tabard with the sigil of  a golden ankh imprinted on it.  "You first, 
Avatar...."  said the voice of Xeen.  With a pronounced shimmering effect,
Zephyr disappeared from the cavern.
--Johny Enright

Suddenly, Zephyr found himself in front of everyone.  A *pop* 
sound had been made, as if there was a displacement of air.  The dirt 
and grime that he had collected from the travel and cavern was 
suddenly cleaned off him.  He held out his hands and saw that he had 
his ceremonial robe from back home on, complete with tabard and 
Ankh.  The robe shimmered with a thousand diamonds and glitter-stone 
(to fill in the gaps).  For a second he looked around to see if his 
Father and Grandfather were present.  They weren't.

Then, he floated up.  He felt he had been gripped, but 
gently, as if it was done by a telepath.  He looked down, and all had 
a bewildered look, except Thai.  She had one of knowing-awe.  
Possibly fear.  A fear that one, in her position as leader, holds 
reserve for her henchmen.  And displayed only when the leader knows 
that there is nothing that she can do for them.

Dryctor looked as if he would reach out to snag his foot and 
start a tug-o-war with Xeen, but then they were all gone.......
--Joey Christ 1

Next, Zeph was lifted into the air, and was immediately made clean and whole.
Her tattered High Inquisitor's uniform was shredded from her body, and was 
quickly replaced by a beautiful elven evening gown of crushed green velvet,
with an emerald necklace.  "You look stunning, my cousin!"  said Xeen.
After she was forcibly dressed, she too began to shimmer and disappear.  
--Johny Enright

Jarrad suddenly felt himself lifted into midair, his sword left on the 
ground. His clothes shredded and fell away, leaving him naked for a second 
or so. There was a chill, as if he had been immersed in icy water, then 
that too was gone. Suddenly clothes appeared on him.

They were expensive silken clothes, the clothes of a master psionicist, 
the open eye on the shirt front seeming to see everything. He hadn't worn
his uniform since it was stripped from him by slavers.

The dark green pants, and lighter green shirt seemed so out of place. He 
was used to coarser cloth now.

Jarrad had no more time for wondering, as he disappeared from the lava 
room.

His sword rose up a yard into the air, pivoted as if searching for 
something, then shimmered away, gone as if it had never been there.
--Paul Raj Khangure

Semareth cursed as he, too, was lifted into the air magically. As impossible
as it seemed for his seven foot frame to hang suspended in the air, he did so
with ease, though his thoughts were highly uncomfortable.

He continued to curse as his grey, rough clothing was replaced with fine
blue-grey chainmail, a black and red tabard hanging off his shoulders. The
swirling crest in the middle of the cloth held two symbols, one of a sword
and fist, the other a lion rampant. At his side, the sword Dryctor had given
him turned into a long ceremonial sword, a long snaking blued blade sprouting
from a hilt of gold and black.

As the air around him shimmered, he roared. It would never be the same for
him as for Jarrad, he could feel the magics actually ripping him apart and
*moving* him elsewhere... he cursed, and prayed to Sh'aljien that he would be
given the chance for vengeance.

As he disappeared, he imagined he heard a grating voice whisper...
**...soon...**
--Nick Takayama

Thai clenched her teeth when her turn came. She felt her protective 
spells stripped away with her borrowed legantor clothing, to be replaced 
by the high-necked, crimson robes of a Sorceress and the darker red 
underskirts that went with it. The black dragon leather belt that she'd 
worn into Montfort the first evening cinched itself around her slim 
waist. Matching boots, dagger sheaths, scabbarded short sword and crimson 
hair ribbon shimmered onto her person. The weight of her hair shifted 
upwards from the traveling braid she'd been using to her old style. Thai 
suspected she was wearing full makeup as well but didn't try to find out. 

The tri-eagled crest of her father, a Duke of Shatterfall, stitched 
itself into the black hooded cloak settling across her shoulders. Despite 
herself Thai's head went up a notch as she was forcibly reminded of who 
and what she was. Attached to her belt she noticed a Holy Symbol, the 
fifteen pointed star of Astarte, and wondered why Xeen had given her such.

Residual pain from the ghoul poison fled with the tatters of Zeph's old 
uniform, and then Thai disappeared to join Jarrad and Semareth.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Dryctor felt the magic lifting him and Prayed to Correllon that he would
not lose his chain mail and long sword. 

As Xeen transformed his outfit he saw that the chain and sword were
indeed left in place but a "Honor Guard" such as was used in the Taejack
Elves High feasts to secure a sword so it could not be drawn in haste or
anger appeared on his sword. Also his other garments changed to those
worn by the prince of the Gray elves at a high feast. Purple and blue
shirt and pants with a purple cape and a rampaging griffin on the cape.
also a circlet of gold appeared on his head. "Oh lord! I hate this
outfit! It was one of the  reasons I left my fathers court on Sanctum to
go adventuring."  Dryctor was heard to say just before he and his falcon
both disappeared.
--Barron Featherston

Cari watched as each of her companions were freshly-garbed and teleported 
out of the lava pit. She didn't doubt that she'd be joining them, but 
while she waited she rested. Telekinetically drawing the poison from 
Thai's body had exhausted her.

Though not to the point that some small part didn't wonder how she would 
be garbed. The others all came from fine lineages and noble houses that 
boasted proud heraldic symbols to be emblazoned in gold. But she came 
from no such line. She was the daughter of a widowed farmer, and the 
apprentice of a dream healer. The nearest thing to finery she had ever 
worn was the clothing Draca had loaned her, and that she had returned to 
the healer when they were at Haven and she had been given some traveling 
clothes. 

As her turn came Cari felt herself being lifted up by a strong matrix of 
power, which she could sense around her as it shredded away the brown torn 
tunic and trousers. Frigid air sent goosebumps along her flesh before 
light, silken fabric covered her. She looked down to find herself robed in 
sheer, but not see-through fabric of multiple hues of iridescent greens, 
and on her feet were silver slippers. She found filigree 
silver bracelets that looked like vines wrapped around her upper arms  

She felt her hair loose. But she couldn't see that it had been brushed 
into a fine black sheen, and that it too had entwined in it silver 
leaves. Nor did she know that there was just enough make-up to enhance 
her already exotic green eyes, and to bring to mind the elusive and fair 
Faery race.

When the transformation was complete Cari too was teleported out of the 
lava cavern.
--Cathy Mosley

The main banquet hall of the royal palace had been transformed back
to the glories of old.  Where marble columns had lain fallen and broken,
they now stood back upright and polished to a sheen.  The walls were
once again covered with the silvery elven ivy the hall was known for,
instead of the brown, dead remains of the plant.

The great table had been restored as well, and was now filled with all
manner of foodstuffs.   There was roast pheasant, steak ala draconis,
prime rib, elvish duck d' orangeall manner of meats and sauces, well
complemented by steaming bowls of vegetables, breads, and salads.

Zephyr was the first to arrive, teleported directly to the table, followed
quickly by Zeph, and one by one, the rest of the party.  As soon as everyone
arrived, elven minstrels appeared in a corner of the room, and began to 
play a light, melodious tune.  A serving girl appeared, and began walking 
around the table, placing bottles of elven strawberry and apricot wine near 
each guest.  The girl was quite beautiful and radiant, and seemed quite
familiar to most in the hall.  It was Thai who was the first to recognize 
and identify her.  It was Fawn.....the barmaid from the Dragon's Inn back 
in old Montfort! 
--Johny Enright

Semareth gasped as he appeared, the slight pain of transportation taking his
breath away almost as much as the halls appearance.

He was pointed to a seat near the head of the table, and though he loathed to
sit given the dangerous circumstances, he heeded the wisdom in not offending
the host - yet. He glanced over the food perfunctorily, and when Fawn spoke,
he merely nodded in reply. With Xeen it was more than obvious that something
was brewing.
--Nick Takayama

She had been seated next Semareth, who had looked a little surprised at 
her attire, and she resisted the temptation to "eavesdrop" on what he 
thought of it. Though she had overheard Thai's comment of "faery child." 
That had been the second time Thai had made such a reference and Cari 
truly did wonder what the mage meant. She decided that if they survived 
she would ask Thai.

Just as she had never been in such rich clothing Cari had never been to 
such a grand hall or such a bountiful banquet. Some of the food she had 
only heard of in stories. She managed not to stare, but she did endeavor 
to discreetly glance around at the grandeur. And as she did so Cari 
reminded herself that they sat at the table of a _very_ capricious host.
--Cathy Mosley

Looking around as each of the other hero's arrived Zephyr examined 
and admired their attire.  Jarrad had a huge 'eye' on his chest, and 
he thought maybe it was looking at everybody else.  Nick wore a 
warriors outfit, but it looked very regal, almost royal.  Thai, of 
course, wore an all red outfit, with a black cloak.  She looked attractive 
with the bow in her hair.  Dryctor looked like a prince, complete 
with what looked like some sort of guard on his sword.  Zephyr 
thought to himself he should take that guard off, as he may need to 
pull that sword very soon.

But the one that attracted his attention the most was Cari.  He 
nearly forgot his manners, as he sat there slack jawed for a moment.  
This little farmers girl (a foster child, wasn't she) looked almost 
magical in her dress.  She wore sheer green fabrics, each one see 
through.  But the several layers of fabric, one over the other, 
seemed to hide her figure, leaving the watcher wanting.  Her hair,
almost shining in the light, contained silver leaves woven through 
her hair.  She, to Zephyr, was gorgeous!

He stuffed his tongue back into his mouth and closed it when 
someone placed a vintage bottle of wine in front of him.  He looked 
up to her - FAWN!  <By the Deliverer, what has happened to this 
future!> he thought.  He looked back to the Apricot bottle, sitting 
next to him.
--Joey Christ 1

As soon as he was seated Dryctor cautiously removed the guard from his
sword. He also (by pretending to stretch, thus pressing his back against
the chair back) felt to see if he still wore his pack, as it was the
custom of his people to keep there packs on under their capes, and was
relieved to still feel it there.

"I wonder if we will get our regular garb back after this meal, assuming
there IS an after. I'd hate to have to keep wearing this pretentious
garb."
--Barron Featherston

Dryctor looked around, It looked like he was back home almost. just
decked out in the wrong color scheme. He almost expected to see his
father and mother sitting in the thrones.

*Hmm looks like The elvish feasts here are almost a mirror for those back
home. *

::Thai, Jarrad, Semareth, et all, I know not how you all feel about this 
'feast' But I do not trust anything placed before me by this Xeen. I
intend to not eat or drink anything here unless you feel I should::
--Barron Featherston

Zephyr agreed, but he decided not to verbally or mentally say so, 
as he believed that Eldarion/Xeen probably was listening in.  He just 
looked to Fawn and shook his head 'No'.
--Joey Christ 1

Thai had stared a moment at the familiar face in so unexpected a place, 
then looked around the room to cover her rudeness. She took the seat 
across from Sem, between Jarrad and Xeen. After a brief glance at Cari 
and the mouthed words, "Faerie Childe," she didn't look at the girl again.

::I say that Xeen has had more than enough opportunity to harm us if he 
wished to. Poison is not usually the hallmark of a mage, or of Eldarion, 
and he might take offense if we do NOT eat.::

Easy to say, Thai reached for a piece of pheasant striving to appear cool 
and detached. Fawn stopped beside her and Thai put her hand on Fawn's 
arm, through Fawn's arm.

Thai pulled her hand back quickly, recalling for the nth time the message 
on the rocks and wondered what it referred to. Fawn? The meal? 

'Remember! Not all is as it seems in the realm of Xeen, and hold suspect 
what you now know.......' 
--Phaedra Whitlock

Once Fawn had finished distributing the bottles, she stopped and addressed
the party with a smile.  "Good evening, guests!  My name is Fawn, and I am 
to be your head servant this evening.   Welcome to Highlord Eldarion 
Elessidel's banquet, in your honor.  The Highlord will join you shortly.  
Until then, I have distributed bottles of both apricot and strawberry wine.  
All from the years 571-574, which were legendary years for Tynntangial's 
vintners.  If you would like something else to drink, please let me know 
and I will see to your needs...."
--Johny Enright

"No thank you Fawn. I think for now we are more curious as to how you 
came to be here than we are thirsty."

"Will there be any other guests arriving with the HighLord?"
--Phaedra Whitlock

::Wasn't so much a fear of poison (Although that was a minor concern) so
much as a point of personal honor, My people do not believe in sharing a
meal with an enemy. Meals, especially High feasts are a token of trust or
alliances not to be soiled by eating with one you know you will probably
be soon fighting. But if You wish it I shall partake so as to not anger
our 'kind host' too much::
--Barron Featherston

::My apologies Dryctor. I am more accustomed to a human court than an 
elven one. It would be impolite to eat before the Highlord's arrival in 
any case.::

Thai drank a little of the apricot wine while awaiting Fawn's response and 
keeping an eye on her own people.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Semareth spoke across the table quietly, "Dryctor, do not eat if you do not
wish to. In my land it is customary that if you sit at the same table as your
enemy, you do not eat until he is dead.". He smiled slightly, then added for
Xeen's bemusement, "Of course, who is to say that we shall be sitting to dine
with an enemy tonight?".
--Nick Takayama

"Well," Zephyr whispered as well, "I actually can see both sides 
to this little debate. But, as Thai said, I too am more accustomed to 
a human court."  And he reached for his wine glass, raised it to all, 
and took a sip, enjoying the flavor.

"Besides," he set his glass down, "maybe we are coming to an 
impasse tonight.  This dining table does seem to suggest respect.  
Should we not all 'respect' our enemies?  Opposing sides have always 
held dinners throughout history.  'Course, I can't speak for the 
Elven kingdom."
--Joey Christ 1

Semareth glanced down at his clothing, and noted that his obsidian hand was
uncovered now. The black surface of it shined as if to suit the formal
setting. He picked up his wine glass, hearing the glass *clink* against the
coldness of his artificial hand. He sniffed at the wine briefly, then sipped
at it cautiously. It was good, but he returned his glass to the table
regardless.

He looked at Cari, his silver eyes seeming to swirl momentarily with sadness,
noting how she appeared to be wondering at her clothing more than anyone else
at the table. He shook his head briefly, and whispered, "There will be time
later."
--Nick Takayama

Cari looked up at the quiet sound of Semareth's voice, and sensed a 
passing sadness in him. ::Time to understand?:: she asked. 

She had accepted a glass of strawberry wine from Fawn, and now she lifted 
the glass to her lips. Perhaps it was poisoned, though she doubted Xeen 
would be that direct after going to such preparations for them, and she 
wanted to at least know what this legendary liquor tasted like. Real or 
illusion, life or death, it would be the only time she would ever be able 
to partake of this rich experience. Cari only had enough for a taste, but 
the sweet strawberry taste on her palette told her why the wine was famous.
--Cathy Mosley

He shook his head slowly, and replied, his voice low.
"Time to know..."

He turned to look at the empty seat beside him which Xeen was intended to
occupy. The gaudiness of the upholstery and the facetiousness with which the
whole room had been decorated echoed of an insane mind. Everything was too
perfect to be real, yet felt too real to be trusted.

A quote from an old story flowed from his lips.

"Watching, waiting, eager to meet His enemy, and angry at the thought of 
his coming"

He looked around the table at his 'companions' while the words became his
reality.
--Nick Takayama

Jarrad relaxed in his chair, or rather, relaxed as much as formal, hard 
wood chair permitted. He listened as the conversation regarding whether or 
not to consume the food and drink went on, sipping his wine to give his 
opinion.

"I think that each person should follow their own customs. Zeph can wait 
and see if Eldarion is a friend before eating, if it is Eldarion. Semareth 
can kill him first, then eat, and the rest of us can do similarly", Jarrad 
said, a slightly ironic, yet cynical amusement present in his speaking.

He noticed that almost everyone was sipping the wine though.

Standing, he lifted his goblet of strawberry wine, admiring the pale red 
color, as it sparkled in the light.

"I propose a toast," Jarrad began. "A toast to those who have fallen, to 
Strawberry, to Amaranth, to all the elves, humans, dragons, and anyone 
else who has fallen in their struggle. But also a toast to those who still 
battle, to everyone around the world still living, be they dining 
sumptuously, or crouched in the cold. A toast to those who have died, or 
may die at any time, but struggle, so that they and others may live safer, 
better, longer lives." Jarrad raised his glass high. "To those who fight 
evil, those known and unknown, living or dead." After the others echoed, 
Jarrad lowered the glass to his lips, and drank deeply, before he sat down 
again.

He looked across to where Thai sat opposite, and their eyes met. He sent 
to her privately, ::Whatever happens, know that I love you completely, 
and always will:: He tilted his glass slightly towards her, a silent 
toast to the love they shared, and an acknowledgment, that they may not 
have an opportunity to be together again. 

Xeen was coming, and now they were playing the game for real. Jarrad only 
wished, that the dice would be weighted in their favor for a change, or 
that the rules would apply to both sides, equally. But that was just 
wishful thinking.
--Paul Raj Khangure

Fawn had completed straightening some dishes at the far end of the table
and returned to answer Thai's question.

"Well, I've been here for some time really....ever since Montfort and the 
Inn were destroyed when Proctor John led the church in defying the master's
will.  It took the master all of a minute to overpower the Proctor's power,
and I'm sorry to say, the Redeemer did *not* arrive to save the day...."
There was an inkling of a grin in Fawn's otherwise saddened face.

"The master...ah... Eldarion found my portrait amidst the rubble left of the
inn, and brought it here..."  Fawn pointed to a far wall, and there, hanging
on a silvren chain, was her portrait.

"At first I was quite cross at him for what had happened to all my friends..."
This time, Fawn's sadness seemed genuine. "...but he soon enlightened me as
to the evil that was Montfort.  An evil, I might add, that was brought to
Montfort by the likes of Proctor John, High Inquisitor Semareth, and 
Deaconess Thai!"  Fawn's eyes seemed to glow momentarily, then softened as
she smiled.  "But as the Highlord has decreed, what is past is past!"
--Johny Enright

"Thank you Fawn. Although I did not bring the Church to Montfort, neither 
did I stop it once I realized what it was. I am not a Deaconess now, as I 
understand it, that was removed from me shortly after I left the Church, 
and high time too."
--Phaedra Whitlock

Fawn looked at the empty chairs at the other end of the table, and smiled.
"As to your second question......yes, the Highlord has invited other guests
to break bread with you......and I can assure you, the food and drink are 
what they seem to be...."
--Johny Enright

It was during the group's discussion on whether or not to eat that all was
interrupted by the sounds of trumpets blaring.  Fawn excused herself, and
slowly faded from sight.  The minstrels began to play the "Processional
of Tynntangial" which was only played for two occasions of high honor:  An 
elven wedding, or the arrival of the nation's Highlord.

The great doors at the far end of the hall slowly swung inward, and 
a troop of hard looking elven warriors entered, each carrying a halberd
and wearing a black and silver mantle with the image of a rook upon it.
These guards separated in formation, and took positions lining the walls
of the hall.

Next, many beautiful elven maidens clad in silken gossamer entered, flinging 
white, star shaped petals of the elenaur flower about.  Finally, as the
'Processional' was reaching its crescendo, the Highlord of Tynntangial,
Eldarion Elessidel, entered the hall.

He wore the normal gold and white robes of state, and bore a pocket-dragon 
upon his shoulder, much like the pocket-dragon Dardt he had unleashed upon
the group during the riddle games.

Behind Eldarion/Xeen, five other figures entered the room.  The one who 
was immediately recognized was none other than the evil they had wished 
to kill in the first place....the reason they had come to this horrid 
future:  Proctor John.  

The man in the sunglasses next to the Proctor was also recognized by all.
He had slain millions in his time, now known as the most vicious assassin/
war criminal as ever their was.  Most knew him simply by the name Smith.

There was a beautiful woman on Smith's arm, dressed in a most revealing 
leather outfit.  She carried a whip at her side, and in her resurrected/taken 
form, served Xeen well as a harbinger...her name whispered by the common 
folk in horror, she was known as Lasher.  Before her untimely death by a 
Legentor's sword, she had once been known as the Deaconess Thai Silverrun!

In the rear was a female who no one recognized, but who had the feel of 
evil magick about her.  Next to her, the last of the five was unknown 
to all in the group, save perhaps Zephillia, who had witnessed his death in 
his own frozen keep many years before.  More of shadows than substance, this 
figure was cloaked in many layers of black, and before his death, had twice 
begun wars of conquest against the elves.  He served as Xeen's lieutenant 
during the Sundering, or the great dragon wars.  He was also the Redeemer to 
a church now long dead, replaced by a benevolent one using the same name.  
He was the Dark One. 

Eldarion smiled and nodded at his guests, and took the seat at the head of the 
table.  The five 'guests' he brought with him also took seats at the table.
Eldarion stood and raised a crystal wine flute, which filled with wine as he 
lifted it.  "My dear guests....welcome to my banquet.  I have brought some
guests who will liven our dinner conversation.  Some you know well, others
perhaps, only by their reputations.  Please, eat, drink and be merry. Perhaps
after our dinner we shall have a game or two..."

Eldarion took a sip of wine, but it dribbled from his mouth as he began to
giggle again.  Fawn appeared next to him and dabbed at the wine on his
chin with a cloth........
--Johny Enright

Thai had risen when the music started. The other guests surprised her 
terribly, shocked was perhaps a better word. When the last had entered 
she turned her eyes back to herself in amazement. She sat at the same 
time Lasher did, all the while with a pleased smile on her face. 

"Proctor John. How nice to see you again." She served herself from the 
platter of pheasant and started mentally cataloguing the differences between 
the people she recalled and the people before her.
--Phaedra Whitlock

The Proctor looked the same as before, untouched by a century of changes. 
"I would have agreed when first you left the Church, but as you can see, 
your replacement serves us well. After Lord Eldarion completed her 
Taking of course. Lasher is quite powerful now, without the scruples 
you seem to have attained in its stead."
--Phaedra Whitlock

Thai stared at her double/self, it wasn't very amusing to see herself 
smiling in mocking triumph. Lasher saluted her with a minuscule lifting 
of her crystal goblet before drinking the same apricot wine she had in 
her own glass.

Thai smiled and raised her own glass. "It would seem Proctor, that I will 
have both power AND Jarrad. Thank you for the compliment."

She turned to listen to another conversation and drank steadily, avoiding 
Lasher completely. 
--Phaedra Whitlock

Cari cut at a piece of meat and decided that they probably should be 
"honored" by Eldarion/Xeen's elite choice of opponents for them, but she 
also knew that it did not bode well for "after-dinner games." 

Of all the newly-arrived guests she only had seen one first hand, and 
that was Smith, when half of Montfort burned down. She had noted the 
simultaneous movement of Thai and her "future" self, Lasher. Cari wondered 
which the duplication of reactions would prove to be - asset or 
liability?

She took a bite of meat. Now was the time for watching. And listening. 
Those were her skills, and there was little else for her to do.
--Cathy Mosley

Semareth sat stonily throughout the "grand" entrance of Eldarion and his
guests. The ancient curse kept echoing through his head, "May you live in
interesting times". How true that was becoming to him now. He had faced much in
his lifetime, even defeated minions of the Dark One... now he was faced with
the Dark One himself - or at least an illusion of him.

His obsidian fingers scraped gouges down the side of the crystal goblet.
Something told him to remain still, though, and wait out Eldarion's surprises.
--Nick Takayama

As the procession neared it's finale, Jarrad stood with Thai, a sardonic 
grin on his face at the entrance of their 'distinguished' host. He 
recognized Smith, he had met the man once. Proctor John was a not so 
pleasant surprise, He wondered what had happened to Thai, that she 
had become like that. The other guests he did not know.
--Paul Raj Khangure

Zephyr half stood when seeing Jarrad and Thai stand, but decided 
against it.  He sat.  Noticing the others behind Eldarion/Xeen, he 
began rubber necking to see them.  He could not believe his eyes!  
Proctor John!  And with him - Smith!  He remembers Smith, not long 
ago, when he saw Cari in the courtyard at Smith's burning/funeral.  
Thai had just brought Zephyr in as one of her guards when she was 
plotting the Proctor's death, not long before Smith's death.  But if 
this was Smith, then who was that?

Seeing the resemblance with Lasher to Thai, Zephyr turned toward 
their leader.  He caught her reactions.  He had many questions that 
needed answering.
--Joey Christ 1

After Eldarion had sat, Jarrad regained his seat. It seemed that every 
nation had strange traditions. In his, dining with the enemy was common, 
on the eve before battle was joined. Etiquette prevailed, and much as he 
would like to physically attack Eldarion, it would serve no purpose.

Reaching for the platter of oysters, he put a few on his plate, and 
covered them lightly in lemon. Eating them straight out of the shell, one 
by one, he decided to initiate some conversation. This dinner would test 
everyone's self restraint.

"You set a most bountiful table, Eldarion." Jarrad began, wondering if the 
Elven Lord would insist on a formal title. "Please, give my compliments to 
your chefs." 
--Paul Raj Khangure

Cari was curious to see how the dinner conversation was going to proceed. 
As always, she admired Jarrad his boldness.
--Cathy Mosley

Seeing Jarrad reach for some oysters, he began to fill his 
plate.  He never like oysters, so he went for the ham and potatoes.  
Jarrad was right, the food was exquisite, each piece nearly melting in 
his mouth.

He kept close watch on the others, wondering what they would do. 
He hoped that there wouldn't be too much bloodshed here; he hated 
fighting on a full stomach.  
--Joey Christ 1

Dryctor looked over the 'other guests'  Xeen brought in with him and 
wondered which one was intended to be his adversary. It was obvious that 
the one called Lasher was intended to offset Thai. And Sem seemed ready to
take on both Proctor John AND the dark one, although Dry suspected that 
Sem would have to race with Jarrad to get to Proctor John after what 'the
good proctor' had done to Thai. Now Smith, he was one Dryctor had
interacted with, but he was 'nominally' on the side of good at that
time, even though his methods left much to be desired, he was one who
would gladly kill the patient to cure the disease.

Dryctor continued to sit with his arms folded in his lap. He kept as
pleasant a face as he could manage on his face but did not reach for any
of the food or drink offered.
--Barron Featherston

Semareth sat back in his high-backed chair, letting his head lean back 
against the upper edge. He swept his eyes over the guests of Eldarion - 
past and future enemies, all of them. His eyes swirled with silver as 
though feigning the white opaqueness of a blind man, though he glared 
silently a bloody anger at them all.

He did not for one second believe that what he saw was real, at best it 
was but a very convincing illusion. He was sure, however, that he could 
die here, and the threat was real. His gaze turned on Eldarion, and the 
little pocket dragon on his shoulder. The minuscule beast cocked it's head 
at him, and opened it's maw in a pitiful imitation of a snarl, which only 
served to remind him of Dardt - dead and rotting.

Proctor John had been seated nearly opposite him, and he could see the man
glancing over occasionally, and at his obsidian arm. A twisted grin 
formed on the Proctor's lips. Semareth dearly wanted to rip the flesh 
from the man's face.

He calmed himself. There were too many 'guests' at the table whom he 
would love to rend limb-from-limb... for now he must wait.
--Nick Takayama

Thai fought an urge to contact her double, who was staring at Jarrad and 
smiling. The woman had what Thai had always sought and old habits were 
hard to break. 

Instead she glanced at the Proctor, the Dark One and Smith to see if they 
ate anything. The food was excellent, but she doubted what they wanted 
was on the table. At it perhaps, but not on it.

She sliced another portion of pheasant and turned to the mystery woman. 
"I am the ex-Deaconess, Thai Silverrun. I'm afraid I do not recognize you, 
have we met?"
--Phaedra Whitlock

Surprise showed itself on Jarrad's face briefly. He had recognized the 
women from the outset, but Thai hadn't. Well, you never expected to run 
into yourself, not from outside anyway.

He sent a message to Thai, to soften the shock that she was about to 
receive.

::Thai, she is you in a different life, in a different time. You 
physically, but without the humanity and emotions you possess. That::, the 
image transmitted of Lasher was not particularly pleasant, ::thing is what 
I would have fought against forever, and what I will fight against if it 
comes to that. But I think we are somewhat over powered here. Guile will 
have to prevail.::
--Paul Raj Khangure

:Yes love, I know. But I do not know the other sitting beside Zephyr.:
--Phaedra Whitlock

She swam in a pool of dark waters which none but she could 
see, watching the other guests at the table from behind her 
steel helm.  The ethereal black metal masked the descriptive 
main of her features and she knew that the ones who were 
familiar to her would not know her.  It had been a long time 
since she had seen Thai...and little Zeph.  The stranger's 
eyes, the only clearly visible element within the shades of 
the helm, burned twin fires of white gold in her darkly tanned 
skin.  Smoldering with hatred and desire, she breathed in the 
essence of Eldarion's "guests" and tasted the life-force that 
she would feed upon once Eldarion allowed her.  She looked 
over at the demon Highlord and smiled, enraptured by his 
presence; he who had given her this new life.

Thai spoke to her asking her name and she turned, slowly, 
smoothly, as if detached from her body, to gaze upon the woman 
who had occupied her thoughts for so many years.  Would Eldarion 
grant her revenge at last?  No, Lasher would not permit it...  
There would be another time, she was sure.  She remained silent, 
feeling the essence of the sorceress wash through her like warmth 
from Eldarion's own hand.  Yes, she would be sweet to feed upon 
and the helmed woman would savor every last drop.

The man named Jarrad addressed Thai, misreading the intent of
his lady's question and pointing out some foolish comparisons 
between Lasher and Thai.  It was clear, however, that Thai had 
spoken to the stranger and not Lasher.  Thai wanted her to reveal 
herself.  Is was so very tempting.  The stranger glanced at 
Eldarion again but he was giggling over his soup, halfway between 
several incarnations of his Xeen soul.  No, she would wait.  He 
would tell her when it was time...

The woman in ethereal armor leaned forward, impossibly seeming 
to Thai to be almost kissing her with her closeness and yet 
across the table at the same time but it was simply an illusion.  
In a voice somewhere between a breeze and the thickness of warm 
honey, the stranger spoke slowly, "I am one who knows *you* 
already Thai Silverrun.  I am a creature of darkness and a stealer 
of souls.  I am Eldarion's heart and his right hand..."  Her voice 
caressed Thai with a seductive, hypnotic touch.  "You may call 
me Kessirac if you wish to name me, sweet Thai." 
--Kara Marzhan

Thai forgot the goblet in her hand at the woman's untouch. Slowly she 
drank the apricot wine but the taste was different. Like blood. She 
smiled slightly and leaned back in her seat, eyes still watching the 
helmed woman beside Zephyr.

"I am honored Kessirac." She was far more than that, but more she could 
not say in a room so suddenly crowded, so very warm. She loosened the 
silver clasp on her cloak, letting it fall over the back of her chair.

Her goblet again full, Thai barely noticed the retreat of the serving 
maiden, so enraptured was she. So much to learn, to know, so very very 
dark....
--Phaedra Whitlock

The armored woman's dark heart beat fast within her breast at the 
sight of the weakened Thai.  It had been so simple to pierce the 
sorceress' shielding, like cutting through a silk veil with a sharp 
blade.  Thai's state obviously irritated several of her companions 
as the energy within the chamber fluctuated.  The one called Kessirac 
simply smiled and allowed her eyes to roam the naked throat and 
shoulders of the ex-deaconess wherein her life-force shimmered.  She
longed to touch her again with invisible tendrils of life-draining 
hunger.  The first taste had been so very sweet...
--Kara Marzhan

Zephyr noticed the strange body language that Thai began to exude, 
and realized that this Kessirac was having a strange effect on Thai.  He 
was going to have to interrupt this conversation......
--Joey Christ 1

Something was wrong, Thai was emanating waves of ... possession was the 
best term he could think of.

::THAI!:: The message was sent, like a whiplash.

Jarrad went to send again, but was distracted.

Swaying gently, Selene entered Lord Eldarion's dining hall, then undulated 
to Smith's side. Leaning over, 'accidentally' providing Zephyr with a 
stunning view down the top of her golden dress, she whispered in Smith's 
ear. "Your requisition has been approved. The director hopes there will 
still be an adequate food", she paused briefly "blood supply after the 
new equipment is used."
--Paul Khangure

Smith grinned and said "Thank you, Selene!  Not to worry;  there
are many sheep to be had...not just here on Ifreann...there may not
be much blood left here, but there are other places."
--Jack Smith

Straightening, she gave Jarrad a full dose of Presence, her blue eyes 
glittering as they trapped his, enveloping him until all he would see or 
think of was her.

Try as he might, he couldn't break eye contact, and after a couple of 
seconds, didn't want to any more. With her flame red hair, and sapphire 
blue eyes, she was stunning. The blood started pounding through his body.

Viewing him through Auspex, Selene smiled. His blood, his magical essence 
of life, was rushing through his body. It had been a long time since she 
had tasted a psionic's blood. She shivered briefly in anticipation. 

Licking her lips, in an extremely seductive manner, she released Jarrad 
from the grip of her Presence, and glanced disdainfully at the others.

She could make do with the two elven sorceresses, but he would be fun.
--Paul Raj Khangure

There were active ripples of power in the hall; some eddying from the 
mystery woman towards Thai, and some from the red-haired newcomer towards 
Jarrad. Tides of intent that did not bode well, and that might well drown 
two souls. 

Cari hadn't known Thai that long, so she focused on Jarrad, who she had 
at least actively worked with psionically. With the sharpness and 
precision of a stiletto Cari sent, ::Jarrad!! Awaken before you 
smother!::
--Cathy Mosley

Noticing Selene's figure for only a second, Zephyr turned towards 
Kessirac, completely missing the fact that now Jarrad too was entranced.

"Oh come on," he said leaning forward to pull her eyes away from Thai, 
"You're not gonna just leave us hanging, are you?  Where are you from?" he 
flashed her a winning smile.  "You have *such* presence.  You can't for a 
second tell us that you are shy.  Please," he gestured with his hands, 
letting them flick in front of her face slightly, "indulge us with your 
knowledge.  Exactly how is it that you go about stealing souls?  I Mean, I 
didn't even know that there was a market for them.  I am *sure* that 
Eldarion doesn't give you a fair cut of the money.  Just think of your 
potential if you didn't let this guy," pointing to Eldarion, "drag you 
down."
--Joey Christ 1

Kessirac hesitated in her renewed advance upon Thai just long enough to
smile at the masculine figure across the table, her lips parting like
an invitation into a darkened room.  "The Gentle Zephyr has so many 
questions," she purred.  Her voice was now like moonlight upon a forest 
pool, soft yet entrancing.  "If you wish me to show you how I steal souls, 
I would gladly show you,"

She turned her full attention to the man, but not before sending one
last gentle touch through Thai's hair, causing several strands to wisp
up into the air and settle gently back around her face.  She saw Thai's
eyes widen and her breath quicken for a second before she slumped, just 
a bit, in her chair.

"Zephyr...curious Zephyr...you had but to ask."  Kessirac put her fingers 
to her lips and blew a soft kiss towards the man who thought to intervene 
in her game with Thai.  

At first, all Zephyr felt was a warmth spread over his skin.  Then, his 
body suddenly felt smotheringly heavy as the heat grew from a pleasant
heat to an intense burning.  The ground lurched beneath him and his 
awareness was lifted with dizzying speed as his heart began to race 
faster and his blood fought against the forces that pressed it down 
into his feet and hands.  The pressure was intolerable; it threatened 
to crush him.    He didn't even have the strength to speak.  Kessirac's 
eyes burned brightly upon his...
--Kara Marzhan

Zephyr fought against the pressure, a bead of sweat trickled down his 
temple.  At first, the dark unnerving figure of the woman threatened him 
only in her presence - who she was.  Then, she seemed to be one of intense 
attraction.  He felt her loving eyes pierce deeply into his.  He thought 
that he could feel her soul, and sense her pain.  Now, he began to realize 
that it was his own soul that he felt slipping, slipping away.  He wasn't 
going to let it be easy for her.  He saw her black beauty for what it was, 
black death.

He fought against her offering, telling himself that this wasn't what he 
wanted.
--Joey Christ 1

Dryctor could feel the flow of power through the crystal link with Thai
and Jarrad. As he had done the night they healed Thai after P.J. had 
tormented her he began the chant to call on Correllon to grant him extra
energy which he sent through the link to infuse and strengthen all those
wearing one of Thai's crystals. (Sorry Sem & Cari, Dryctor is not skilled
enough in his Psionics to just send to Thai and Jarrad) thus aiding Thai
and Jarrad in breaking free of the mental holds they were being hit
with. He hopes it will be enough but cannot as yet do more and still
maintain a semblance of civility.
--Barron C Featherston

Semareth felt a flow of power begin to flow from the green crystal secreted
amongst his clothes. It seemed to pool, and then flow down his side as if it
were water on oil. He glanced down - nothing... the flows were as invisible as
their effect, but he nonetheless could feel the magic sliding off of him.

He restrained a smile, as an exultant feeling welled within him. Sh'aljien
could not be dead. His blessings still worked against magic... He glanced at
Dryctor, his face emotionless, but a hint of empowerment glimmering in his
eyes.

*It has no hold on me* he thought, *as long as Sh'al is with me, the cancerous
magic shall leave me untouched, and unharmed*. It was a litany that was taught
to templars as they were inducted.
--Nick Takayama

Thai awakened as well, with Dryctor's assistance and that of Zephyr. 
She kicked Jarrad under the table and sent a murderous look after the red 
head, avoiding her own problem sitting beside Zephyr. She shuddered to 
think how quickly her good intentions had fled, and was not naive enough 
to think it was all Kessirac's fault.

Her fingers twitched on the tablecloth, patterns of half sensed power 
begging to be used. The habits of a lifetime set against the love she 
held, she drank slowly from her goblet to stop herself from thinking. 
Under cover of the table her hand found Jarrad's and held on tightly.

Her eyes closed, recalling his silent toast of a few minutes before. It 
seemed ages. 

::Whatever happens, I love you Jarrad.:: The taste of blood slowly left 
her mouth. When her eyes opened again, Thai could swear she smelled roses.
--Phaedra Whitlock