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[Xeen] Compendium 5 - December 1996

Xeen 5
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She glanced up at Semareth, and hoped once they had a moment's privacy 
that he might explain what had happened with him. He did seem better, and 
there had been the faintest hint of silver in his dark eyes. For the most 
fleeting of seconds. All she knew right now was that she felt confused 
and concerned.
--Cathy Mosley

Eventually the twin kettles of water were ready and Thai rose from     
the table to return with pitchers of hot chocolate and tea to help     
everyone thaw out a bit faster.                                        
                                                                       
The problem of Dardt worried her but Jarrad's ideas had merit. If      
they could just find a way to Eldarion that involved bypassing Dardt...
                                                                       
She smiled as she handed Jarrad his. ::You should sit down with that
leg newly healed my love. Unless you know something I don't about   
Semareth and his little friend, there is no reason to stand guard   
over them.::                                                        
--Phaedra Whitlock

Smiling, Jarrad bounced her words back, with a slightly altered meaning.
::Unless you know something I don't there is no reason not to stand guard 
over them.::
--Paul Khangure

::He agreed to join us. When I offered him the chance you did not 
object and now he is an ally as much as the elves are. Zephillia has 
no intentions of giving us the Sword. She wants it destroyed with her 
cousin. Knowing this I pretend to see her way of thinking and smile 
and nod, but when the time comes I'll take the Sword whether she 
likes it or no. Because she believes we are after the same thing 
now, we can work together and she will tell us what we need to know. 
I did promise and if it is possible we WILL destroy Eldarion for 
her, by destroying this entire future. If you cannot work with 
Semareth, or cannot pretend to, then say so now. You should know 
that we cannot have discord Jarrad.::

Concerned at his reaction Thai touched his cheek with one slim hand. 
::Please don't be angry with me. I'm doing this for you.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Jarrad replied, ::I am not angry. I will work with Semareth, but do not 
have to trust him unless it becomes essential. A little unease in our 
party, will put the elves even more at ease for when the confrontation 
occurs, and if we beat Xeen, it will definately occur.::
--Paul Khangure

Thai smiled in relief. ::Semareth is trustworthy in that he will 
always follow his god's precepts. Once you know what those are, he 
becomes somewhat predictable.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

::And do you know what these precepts are?:: Jarrad asked.
--Paul Khangure

::Not yet, but I'm learning.:: Thai grinned and then continued over 
to Semareths corner.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Then he hobbled over to one of the corners, and lowered himself gingerly. 
He made sure not to overplay the seriousness of his wound, but not to 
forget it either.
--Paul Khangure

Taking two cups to Semareth's chosen corner she hesitated to approach 
him. He appeared to be wiping at his face, but why? She touched him 
gently but firmly on the shoulder, turning him to face her.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Cari heard someone approach as she was trying to send to Semareth, and 
turned to see Thai coming with two mugs. Her first instinct was to block 
the woman's approach, but she decided that as group leader Thai needed to 
know something was wrong. Besides, she suspected that these two might 
actually be friends. 

She didn't interfere as Thai set the mugs down and touched Semareth's 
shoulder. ::The symptoms are of head injury:: she sent, ::But there could 
be more occuring.:: She would wait to see if Semareth said anything about 
Sh'al to Thai.
--Cathy Mosley

Semareth had finished cleaning the blood and tears from his face by the 
time Thai touched him on the shoulder. He turned smoothly, with renewed 
grace, and looked down at her concerned face.

"Thank you, but I am not thirsty.", he straightened out his cloak, and 
then looked back at her. He seemed about to say something else, but 
merely shrugged and looked down.

The barest hint of silver glinted for a second in the darkness of his 
eyes, then disappeared.
--Nick Takayama

Thai smiled momentarily at the familiar silver gleam then she frowned. 
Her fingers moved from his shoulder to the collar of his Inquisitor's 
cloak where his blood had stained the fabric. 

::My Lord Semareth, I am not such an inept healer as I led L'Arain 
to believe. Before you insist that there is nothing wrong I insist 
you tell me what is. I know your ribs were hurting you earlier and I 
heard you a moment ago. What do you mean Sh'al is dead?::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Semareth nearly laughed, but it would have hurt too much.

"Sh'aljien is DEAD, deaconess, or he has at least fled this dimension 
under great duress. I may have a broken rib or two, and my ears shall 
ring for many hours from having the sound of a god's deathcry in them, 
but any pain is better than the numbness I would feel otherwise. 
Sh'aljien's spirit has been within me since I was born, and I can feel 
the hollowness inside me as if some vile parasitic contagion were 
swallowing me from within.". As if by trick of the light, his eyes seemed 
greyer, with darker spots where irises should be - had not been.

He snarled, the darkness around his eyes making him appear vaguely demonic.
"If this Eldarion-Xeen creature is responsible for the death of my god, 
then he shall _pay_. On my lifeblood, shall it be so.". He gripped his 
swordhilt so tightly that his left glove split open, revealing a 
hand of pulsating obsidian.
--Nick Takayama

Thai blinked. It wasn't everyday one was told a god was dead. 

::I'm sorry for your loss Semareth, but if you must face Xeen on 
Sh'aljien's behalf you'll do it fully healed or not at all.::

She glanced at Zephillia who had drawn the meeting to a close rather 
than answer her question, then back to Semareth. ::It seems the 
meeting is over. Will you come upstairs and let me look at you or 
would you rather I summoned Dryctor to do it?::
--Phaedra Whitlock

This time he did laugh, quietly, so as not to inflict more pain than was 
necessary. He placed one hand out as if to keep her away from him a moment.

"I cannot accept magical healing. Poultices and bandages are the only 
treatment I will allow. So unless you have some hidden medical talents?", 
he cocked an eyebrow at her.
--Nick Takayama

Thai smiled and shook her head no. 

::I'm just an herbalist and an army medic. Although there are spells 
that could help you I couldn't use them even if you would let me, 
and I have not forgotten Maida's report after that ogre half killed 
you. Now, what will it be? Stay here or go upstairs so that I can 
look at you?::
--Phaedra Whitlock
  
Very sheepishly, Strawberry interrupted their conversation. He was deathly
frightened of Semareth, regardless of the fact that he seemed to present
absolutely no danger to anyone at the present time. The source of his courage 
to speak came from Thai's outwardly helpful attitude towards the High 
Inquisitor. "Begging your pardon, but...but may I suggest asking Draca for 
medical assistance once she returns from the hunt. I believe she is quite 
capable in the art of natural healing. But she of course, would be best to 
confirm this fact."
--Dave Smart

Thai smiled, surprised and pleased by Strawberry's suggestion. 

::True. She did not mention it but I have no doubts that she has 
such skills. Will you allow her to look at you Semareth?::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Semareth narrowed his eyes, and looked warily at both Strawberry and 
Thai. His face looked etched in stone as he replied.

"I will allow her to tend my wounds when she returns. I will be in the 
corner, here.", then he left them.

He sat in a corner of the room near the fire, and sat cross-legged. He 
withdrew from beneath his cloak, two sticks of some sort, which he lit in 
the fire, and placed before him on the floor. They let off thin trails of 
smoke which swirled up and around him. Occasionally the two swirls would 
combine to form the image of a frowning face, which was quickly whipped 
away by air currents.

Semareth sat quietly, almost peacefully but for the crease above his 
brow. The sh'alvar which burned before him had turned odourless.
--Nick Takayama

Cari watched him go, and then looked over at Thai and Strawberry. At 
least they had gotten him to concede to some treatment for his injuries 
- that was more success than she had had earlier. 

She wasn't even sure he had "heard" any of her sendings since Sh'aljien 
had died, and now she suspected he wanted to be left alone. And she was 
far too tired to even care about rooms. Cari found a place out of the 
flow of traffic, but still near the hearth, curled up and fell asleep.
--Cathy Mosley

Thai watched Semareth take himself elsewhere and let out an 
exasperated sigh. ::Strawberry, I think its time we showed our 
guests to their rooms. We're staying until he's fit to travel, and 
that may be some time.::

She crossed the room to the elves, standing a polite distance away 
and interrupted. Zephillia, while we're together I thought now would 
be a good time to show you all to rooms. My people have there's from 
last night, and there are a few customs that need to be observed...::

Thai led the elves upstairs and gave them vacant rooms. After 
informing them of the need to replace what they used and to greet 
new arrivals, unlikely though it might be.::

She smiled as Zeph's men stiffened and hurried to remind them that 
this was a crossing place for all, not just herself. With that said 
Thai returned to the ground floor and Semareth.

Eventually he noticed her booted feet directly in his line of vision.
::It is time for me to examine your injuries. If you'll come with me 
I'll show you to your room.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

He looked up at her with his dark eyes, and with low voice replied.
"Draca shall examine my injuries, and if she does not, then I will travel 
as I am."

He stood, and looked down at her.
"If you would kindly show me to my room, then, deaconess. Though I do not 
believe we should be tarrying so. There is much to be done."
--Nick Takayama

Thai said nothing and turned on her heel assuming he would follow. 
Back through the Great Hall, up the stairs and down the hall past 
several doors. Stopping before one halfway down she pushed the door 
open and went in. The fire in the grate was still burning from her 
earlier trip so she ignored it to wait for Semareth to decide if 
the room was suitable. While large, it had few furnishings other 
than the massive, curtained bed and rugs that covered the cold stone 
floor. 

A part of her hated her next words but if they were to work together 
she needed to understand what had changed her relationship with 
Semareth in the four days since her arrest. A thirst for vengeance 
was the last thing she wanted with her on this quest and he was at 
best a rogue element. The others distrusted him already and if she 
couldn't trust him either then it might be best to leave him 
behind. Without Sh'aljien to heal his wounds it was likely he would 
be unable to travel and fight anyway, although she did not know 
since he kept refusing to let her examine him. That hurt too but 
she masked it with the ease of long practice.

::The High Inquisitor requested that we stay the night Semareth. She 
and her people are tired and this place offers them the first 
guaruntee of a safe night in some time from what I understand. 
Unlike others I try to look after my allies and that includes you 
as well as her and the elves. I've tried to respect your privacy and 
views Semareth, but now I need to know what is it about me that 
makes it impossible for you to let me help you. Out of all the people 
here I understand you best and would hurt you least, yet you keep 
me at arm's length. How do you expect us to work with you if you 
keep on as you have?::

::If you wish to work alone tell me now. I'll take you to Proctor 
Benedict and from there you can plan your vengeance with all the 
secrecy you wish.::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Semareth allowed Thai to finish her speech, then walked past her into the 
room, and pulled up a chair near the fire.

"Despite your words earlier, deaconess, it still appears to me as if 
magic is the greatest tool you have. Several times now, you have offered 
to 'heal' my wounds using your magic, and I have stated my reasons for 
rejecting such an offer. Though Sh'al may be dead, I cannot stop 
believing in his tenets. To be healed using natural methods, gained 
through knowledge, and with salves and herbs gathered from nature, is 
still the purest way. Believe me when I say that with my current 
injuries, I am still capable of more rigorous deeds than most would ever 
be capable of." He sat such that he could warm his hands at the fire, 
though Thai thought the warming of his obsidian hand more a matter of 
habit, than necessity.

"I do not harbor any harsh feelings towards you, Thai.", he said, tearing 
away the ripped fragments of glove which still hung around his black 
hand. "And I intend to journey with you. I wouldn't wish to jeopardise 
your revenge efforts, nor have you thwart mine accidentally either.", he 
looked up, and the fire seemed to be contained within his pitch black 
eyes. The effect was at once disturbing and enthralling, "Sh'al's death 
in this dimension foretells the Cataclysm. If there is nought I can do to 
alter this reality, then may the Void have mercy on our souls."
--Nick Takayama

Thai tore her gaze away from his eyes to something less dangerous.

::I'm afraid that if we don't get the Sword a Catacylsm won't matter very 
much to me, Semareth. I have no magical healing spells, I never have and 
would not offer them to you if I did. I think there are spells that would 
duplicate what your hand does, but I don't know them. Nor does Astarte 
grant me healing spells as Dryctor's god does. On summer campaign with my 
father's armies I learned to use herbs and bandages and so on to save 
lifes and allow a body to heal itself faster, but that is the only form 
of healing I have.::

She shrugged and turned to go, ::I am not here for revenge, Semareth. If 
you think that,then you don't know me at all. I'll send Draca up when she 
returns, and your little friend with some food. It will help you sleep 
and heal, and Draca will need it even if you don't. Call if you need me, 
otherwise, I'll bid you good night.::

Thai closed the heavy door behind her and leaned back on the cold wood, 
exhaustion swept over her, leaving her momentarily weak. Where ever had 
he gotten the idea that she was a magical healer? It didn't matter.

She shoved herself away from the door and returned to the great hall. 
--Phaedra Whitlock

When Jarrad chose to remain behind, Draca merely shrugged, then 
hobbled outside.  (She was really tempted to just hop out the window, 
but...)  Once in the air, she caught a thermal, and spiralled upward, 
reaching out with her spirit to feel the 'pulse' of the surrounding 
life.  The best game, it seemed, lay to the southwest, in the foothills, 
yet far enough from the 'civilized' areas that her foray would not 
interfere with the 'normal' patterns.

Such was her joy at being away from the others (for a crowd of 
twenty in a small space seemed a throng), that the Wise One's voice 
surprised her slightly...

*It _is_ good to have the wind beneath your wings again, is it not?*

*Indeed, Teacher, but I must admit that I am also glad to be on 
my own for a somewhat more selfish reason...  I fear that I will be badly 
out of practice, and am well aware that I hunt for twenty...*

His mental chuckle chided her gently.  *I believe, Daughter, that 
you may be pleasantly surprised at your skills, once you redetermine your 
range...*  With that, he withdrew from her mind, and left her to her 
task, puzzled, as usual, by his cryptic comments.

After about twenty minutes of hard flight, her pre-determined 
outer range for this trip, she began searching in earnest.  It didn't 
take long to spot a rabbit nibbling on the exposed grass at the edge of a 
clearing.  This one, however, was not destined to become a trophy...  Her 
first stone missed by less than two feet, the second merely grazed the 
(then fleeing) rabbit's flank.  As the stones returned to her pouch (all 
her hunting gear is enchanted to do so... the Wise One figured it 
would be a Bad Thing if she were to fall while retrieving her weapons) 
she understood his meaning.  It _had_ been easier to 'range in'...

The next rabbit she saw was felled with her first stone.  Seeing 
this, she landed, and placed a hand upon the creature's body.  Its life 
force she fed into the earth in the surrounding area, that the local 
plants could flourish and provide for its replacement.  (She had oft 
observed a higher incidence of twin births among the mountain goats that 
were her primary staple in her former home, so she knew the effect was 
tangible.)  She exacted a small tithe of the energy that would otherwise 
have dissipated uselessly (or taken years to become useful), for she knew 
that she would need strength on the morrow.

The healer banished her wings to their pocket, and entered the 
nearby thicket, looking for edible plants.  She found these to be in good 
supply, and gathered a pound or two of wild onions, carrots, and other 
tubers, some of which she did not recognize, but which the local fauna 
obviously consumed.  (These she 'tested' by eating them herself, for she 
had learned the effects and flavour of many naturally-occurring poisons 
as part of her training.  Those which were edible, but ill tasting, she 
left.)

The entire hunting process she repeated several times more, and 
soon she had a sack of tubers, four rabbits, two quail, and a pheasant.  
It was time to move on to larger game...

She first tested her aim on a stump, for she did not wish to miss 
with her spears, then once satisfied, she felt for a small herd of deer, 
or perhaps some goats.  There were many goats ranging in the mountains, 
but most were farther afield than she wished to travel, so she was 
understandably pleased when she 'found' a herd of deer in the foothills.  
An older doe was her choice, for she did not wish to disturb the breeding 
cycle.  

Her first spear pierced the doe's throat, the second plunged into 
her heart.  The healer smiled at the efficiency of her kill, for it meant 
that the creature did not suffer.  Once the animal's life was given back 
to the thicket, its legs were trussed, and Draca slipped her staff 
through between them.  The doe was heavy, but she believed she could 
manage it for the ten minutes it would take to reach the keep.  (Her 
mentor's 'gift' had increased her strength a little, but the task was 
still none too easy...)

Her trip successful, she winged her way back to her companions...
--Margaret Tayti

Thai glanced around the room and still saw no sign of Draca. She bit 
her lower lip and touched the green crystal at her throat.

::Draca? Zephillia wants to return to her world. Will you be long?::
--Phaedra Whitlock

Her query was answered with a familiar 'blank' spot.  "Of 
course," she chided herself, "Draca's outside... I really should have 
known better.."  Permitting herself a rueful smile, Thai shook her head.

Not long after, the wingbeats of the returning huntress could be 
clearly heard...
--Magaret Tayti

Draca was a bit surprised that none came out to assist her when 
she landed in the courtyard, then realized that the walls would likely 
shield most of her approach.  Sliding her crutch out from its position as 
a support for the deer, she hobbled to the door, and ducked her head 
inside, hoping that she wouldn't interrupt anything...

*Could someone please come to the front entrance and help me 
bring this stuff inside?  It's considerably more than I can carry afoot...*
--Margaret Tayti

Dryctor heard Draca's call and headed out to help her. 

"As soon as we are done with the food you are needed by Thai. Semareth is 
in need of healing but will not accept any 'magic' healing from Thai or 
myself, even though my healing is not really magical but the action of my 
god's power"
--Barron C. Featherston 

Draca returned as she emerged from the stairwell. Thai greeted her with a 
wave. ::Draca, how did your hunting go?::

Looking at Draca's spoils she smiled, ::Very well, I see. Thank you. This 
will be much appreciated I think.::

As Draca turned to limp upstairs Thai touched her arm, ::If you can spare 
the time Semareth needs you to look at him. Due to his religion he 
refuses magical healing but thanks to Strawberry he has agreed to allow 
the use of herbs. I don't know how badly wounded, if at all, but I would 
appreciate if you would see him.::

After Draca left Thai turned  to the meat and started to carry the 
lighter carcases towards the kitchen. Between trips she woke the young 
girl Zephyr had arrived with and sent her upstairs with a tray of cheese 
and cold meat [not raw].
--Phaedra Whitlock

Once the food [the doe, four rabbits, two quail, a pheasant, and 20-30 
lbs of root vegetables] had been transported to the kitchens (with 
instructions to leave it for her to prepare), she headed down the hall to 
where Thai indicated that Semareth required her assistance.  She was 
relieved that the dark haired half-elf had been able to convince him to 
accept treatment, and slightly surprised to learn that he would/could not 
be treated magically, for religious reasons.  Thinking about it, it made 
sense, (or at least explained why he had seemed irritated when she had 
taken her leave).

As she approached, however, her concern deepened, for the aching 
ribs were not the sole symptom she shared... There was a ringing in her 
ears, accompanied by a sharp pain near the eardrum, and an almost 
overwhelming sense of loss.  Obviously, something had occurred in her 
absence, which had affected only Semareth, for when she extended her 
sense outward, there was only fatigue and tension among the others.. 
(except Cari, but Draca would only sense the surface confusion, and it's 
against her training to pry).

She knocked lightly on the door, already thinking about salves, 
plasters, tinctures, and the other 'natural' tools of her trade...
--Margaret Tayti

Semareth stood and walked quickly across the room. He opened the door 
swiftly, and, seeing Draca, stepped to one side so she could enter.

"Thank you for offering your herbal assistance, Draca.", he began, "It is 
my ribs, here, and here," he pointed to his chest on several spots. "They 
do not hurt much now, but if there is anything that can be done, just let 
me know first."

[two of his ribs have slight fractures, and his eardrums have moderate 
damage. One interesting thing Draca may notice is that all are showing 
slight signs of healing already, and he seems to have a very, very, very 
vague aura she can't make out.]
--Nick Takayama

While she awaited his reply, she removed her harp case and set it 
beside her.  She lowered herself to the floor and reached inside, taking 
out a jar of salve, mortar and pestle, a cup and waterskin, several herbs, 
and a small flask and tiny glass vial (this last was empty).  The flask 
she set near the coals, to warm its contents while she worked.
--Margaret Tayti

He watched carefully as she removed her tools of healing, then nodded 
approvingly. 

"You may speak as necessary, dragon-child."
--Nick Takayama

She nodded, and sent:  *Then, for the sake of both expediency and 
clarity, I shall use mindspeach.  In this manner, your questions may be 
answered swiftly and without pause in your treatment.*
--Margaret Tayti

He paused as he watched her prepare, then added, "I am intrigued that you 
should know natural remedies, when your magics would suffice for your 
intents. Most are like the deaconess, who feels that her magic healing 
is all she needs. Prithy, what called you to learn the true way as well?"
--Nick Takayama

At these last words, she smiled.  *If there is anything that I 
learned during my years of study, it is this:  there _is_ no one 'true 
way'.  I learned the traditional means first, in most cases.  Healing is 
the only exception; I came into my skills while still an infant of six 
months, by sheer instinct and prior to learning otherwise...*  She sent 
the image that her mentor had once used when recounting the tale.  A bird 
with an injured wing had landed in close proximity to her, and she had 
dragged herself to it, feeling its pain, and touched it.  The faint 
greenish light had flowed from her fingertip into it, and it flew away.  
But it had taken her nearly a week to realize that the pain she felt 
would not hinder her movement...

She shrugged the image off, and continued. *Perhaps it would be 
best if I explained _how_ I heal, compared with 'conventional' magical 
means.  I do this partly because most folk I have met, even those who 
_use_ such magic, are unaware of the mechanics involved in their actions.*

Before she could begin the explanation, there came a gentle knock 
at the door.  She reached for her crutch, about to answer it herself, but 
Semareth was already crossing the room.  He admitted Cari, and she 
perched on the foot of the bed.  When he sat back down, he turned to 
Draca, saying "She was concerned for my well-being, and I thought she 
might also benefit from the lecture you're about to give..."

She nodded, then began....
--Margaret Tayti

Cari set the food tray she had brought from Thai down before she 
settled on the foot of the bed. She was relieved to see that Semareth 
seemed to be more himself, and was allowing Draca to treat his injuries. 
She hadn't expected to walk into a lecture on healing, and so was curious.
--Cathy Mosley

*One of the most important things to understand concerning 
healing is that the pain must either be borne by the injured party, or 
transferred elsewhere by some means.  Priests and other holy men 
generally send it to their gods, who either use it for their own 
purposes, or send it back into the earth, depending on their 
predisposition.  Evil gods are likelier to use it to feed themselves or 
their minions, and thereby grow stronger.  Gods who serve good are more 
inclined to convert it into energy and send it to earth in an easily 
absorbable form, to a location either near the site where the hurt took 
place, or to where it is most needed.  Neutral gods, especially those of 
the druids, tend to send it back to the location where the hurt took 
place, but in an unaltered form, which can take considerable time to be 
absorbed.  This last can often result in such things as 'haunted' woods; 
for sites of great destruction, like battlegrounds, generally contain 
sufficient agony to require centuries of absorption before they are once 
again in balance.*

*Magical healers, for the most part, seem to care little for the 
consequences of their actions.  They generally exile the 'by-product' of 
healing to another plane, where it can fester, becoming the stuff of 
nightmares.  It can also _become_ the cause  of haunted woods and the 
like, or feed the denizens of its plane of destination.*

*It is far more rare to come across a healer like myself.  My 
mentor, who until a month ago was the oldest living dragon on Iffreann, 
only knew of two others in his lifetime.  I manipulate the life forces 
directly, augmenting the healing process with my own strength.  It 
requires considerable power, and exacts a high price.  I take on the pain 
of those I heal, and bear it for its natural duration, preventing it from 
causing difficulty elsewhere, and eliminating its impact on the 
environment.  I can speed the time required through meditation, for, like 
the chi masters, I have considerable control over my body - but I cannot 
eliminate it completely, nor would I want to...*

*This leads me to the answer to your original question.  I 
learned the healing methods found in nature to enable myself to help 
others even when my reserves are depleted.  I also must use them on 
myself on occasion, for I cannot accept the healing of others.  I often 
bear sufficient agony within myself that I am loath to permit physical 
contact, for if my guard slips, or I lose consciousness... (here she 
sends the image of Dralen's near-fatal attempt to help her when she had 
succumbed to the Mourning fast... she was forced to take some of his life 
force in order to have the strength to break their connection... This has 
left them linked, but she won't show that...yet.)*

*I must exercise extreme caution when deciding to use herbal 
remedies on myself, however, for I have found that I develop an immunity 
to them, usually after a single use... another barb on the double-edged 
sword that is my nature...  If you have questions, or require 
clarification, you have but to ask.  <turns to Cari> You may ask also... 
I wish it to be known that I have these limits, so that no-one suffers 
from trying to help me.*
--Margaret Tayti

Semareth shook his head. He was saddened slightly by her story. She was 
so dedicated to the healing of those in need, and he could see the 
authenticity with which she told her story. It saddened him however, that 
his knowledge of the cataclysm spoke so poorly of her kind. That somehow, 
all their noble pride and power became the engine by which the earth was 
ripped asunder. An image of the dragon Xeen swirled on the top of his 
consciousness, the image of Doom's dragon in flight.
--Nick Takayama

Cari listened attentively, though her main interest lay in the herbal 
remedies that Draca was preparing. Neither Cari, nor her originial 
teacher, had been strong in the magical healing of the physical body. 
Cari's only healing ability lay in the dreamscape. So she had been taught 
herbal usage, and recognized one who had a mastery of it. She sent her 
one question ::What aid can be given you?::
--Cathy Mosley

During her story, she had been preparing several remedies.  she 
had set some water to boil, and had begun mixing some herbs, placing them 
in a scrap of cheesecloth in the glass vial, then pouring in some of the 
warmed oil (from the metal flask) and shaking the mixture until the oil 
turned a pale amber.  She then removed the cloth packet, and capped the 
vial.  
--Margaret Tayti

As Draca finished mixing her remedies Cari decided to speak to her later 
about herbal healing. She knew some of the art, but it wouldn't hurt to 
learn more.
--Cathy Mosley

*Before I begin, have you a spare gauntlet?  I would like to 
minimize the risk of contact with your death-hand...*
--Margaret Tayti	

"Indeed", he replied, as he reached into his beltpouch, and fished out a 
pair of hunting gloves. He quickly fitted the grey leather gloves over 
his hands. It made him wonder how long it had been since he had been game 
hunting... a long time indeed.
--Nick Takayama

After hearing Draca's verdict on Semareth's injuries Cari had been able 
to catch up with Thai and was soon assigned a room. She had contentedly 
sank into the depths of the bed. She had forgotten how good a real bed 
could feel, though she had never been in one this luxurious.

The sound of bell woke her from dreamless depths, and for a moment she 
thought she was back in the Church dormatory with the other novices.

Cari opened her eyes and slowly stirred under the warm covers, realizing 
that the shadows were wrong for the dorm and no cot ever felt this 
comfortable. As she became more awake she remembered she was in the 
strange tower with Semareth, and Thai's chosen group.

She wondered what the bell meant and felt around for her clothing, which 
lay on the end of the bed. She finished up by pulling on the boots that 
didn't quite fit, since Zephyr had gotten them for her rather quickly. 
She was lucky he had guessed as close as he had. Then she headed for the 
hall.
--Cathy Mosley

A bell tolled eerily through the void of the Jhivendre. It seemed more an 
echo than a clear sound, but the outside world did not venture boldly in 
the Inner Sphere. Knowing also that in the waking world, the bell had not 
yet tolled, he opened his eyes, and breathed deeply for the first time in 
hours.

Rising from his meditations with the stealth of a cat, Semareth gathered 
his sword and cloak before striding quickly out the door. The door shut 
firmly, just as the bell tolled for the first time.

He found his way to the hall slowly, but nevertheless arrived before the 
others. He sat quietly on a chair in the corner furthest from the 
fireplace. He rested lightly on his sword, which pointed into the floor 
before him.

Jarrad and the others soon arrived, lighting a fire, and speaking 
assuring words amongst themselves. They did not notice him for some time, 
nor did he move or make a sound.

And they waited.
--Nick Takayama

They stood about their chamber in silence and waited for their 
Mistress to speak. Whence she had settled and heat was provided to 
the room, large enough to house the thirteen inquisitors, Zeph 
finally spoke. "Brothers, Sisters...believe me, my word is true, we 
are safe in this house as if we slept beneath Benedict's bed 
itself. We can trust these people!" Then looking at both her No.1 
and Legolas with serious creed, she continued, this time using a 
mother's scowling tongue. "I don't want any trouble with Thai or 
her crew. They are to be treated as brothers. No different than the 
kin who rest here in this room now...Do I make myself clear!" She 
now eyed everyone intently within the reddish glow of the bed 
chamber. A sounding 'Aye' was the response she quickly received. 
"Good! Then let's make the best of matters and get us a good rest. 
There will be plenty of work for all in the morn."

[Snoring and all that -not a soul stirred, not even a mouse] 
--Dave Smart

Sleeping lightly, Jarrad was awoken by the beginning of deep chime that 
reverberated throughout the fortress lasting about half a minute, then 
fading away. Glancing at the candle burning besides the bed, between 
putting on his clothes and grabbing his sword belt, Jarrad estimated the 
time to be 3 hours after the party retired.
--Phaedra Whitlock

When the chimes sounded Thai jerked awake instantly. Tumbling out of bed 
in the orange-lit semi-darkness she nearly screamed as her bare feet came 
in contact with the cold stone floor. She was sliding on her shift and 
boots and grabbing up her cloak when Jarrad, semi-dressed headed out 
the door. One hand smoothed out the dark curls that had come loose from 
her braid as she went down the stairs into the Great Hall. 
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zeph, light a sleeper as any there was, woke at the first sound of 
the chime. She spied the glowing coals in the nearby hearth. She 
quickly summized but a few hours had passed since they had first 
set foot into their bedroom. "Who could be calling at this late 
hour?" she though as she nudged her 1st.
--Dave Smart

An enquiring look at Thai, received a single word. ::Visitors:: Had she 
spoken it, it would no doubt have been slightly muffled by the shift she 
was pulling over her head, but that was one of the advantages of telepathy.

Recalling Thai's comments on the etiquette of the fortress, Jarrad 
loosened his sword in its scabbard, then opened the door and followed 
Thai through into the corridor.
--Paul Khangure

Thai straightened her scarlet robes and then proceeded across the room, 
presentable once more, and up to the tower court where the Gate was.

As she climbed the spiralling stone steps she listened behind her to 
Jarrad's lecture on the etiquette of the citadel, and ahead of her to 
where the new arrivals would be getting in out of the cold.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Greeting the others he saw with the words "guests - an unknown number, 
race, or purpose," Jarrad headed down towards the main hall. Catching a 
glimpse of himself in a mirror he passed, he couldn't resist a small 
chuckle at his own expense. It was quite a funny sight - barefoot, 
unlaced shirt half tucked into breeches, sword belt buckled haphazardly 
around his waist, and his hair, tufts pointing in every direction 
imaginable.

"These guests might take one look at us and flee or attack, just based 
on our hair styles" Jarrad quipped, lightening the general mood a little, 
but gently reminding that although etiquette should prevent any bloodshed 
within the fortress, it was only etiquette.
--Paul Khangure

Cari smiled at Jarrad's commment, deciding they all did look a bit wild. 
She looked around for Semareth, but did not see him in the group. 
--Cathy Mosley

Most of the others entered the main hall shortly after him, and Jarrad 
grabbed a couple of logs and threw them onto the fire. The extra light 
and warmth would not be begrudged. It also made it easier to identify the 
visitor, or visitors.
--Paul Khangure

Zephyr poked his head out of his doorway watching Jarrad walking away.
He hated visitors, especially since they were visitors at this place as well.
--Joe Christl

"Remember that we don't know who or what is coming in, but do not under 
any circumstances attack first." Jarrad reminded, with a quick glance at 
Zephillia to underscore his words. He didn't know how her elves would react.
He watched as they glanced at her for confirmation, then continued.
--Phaedra Whitlock

Zeph winked back at Jarrad then bid only her 1st and Legolas 
follow. Unarmed. But to wager the trio were unarmed as they 
appeared to be, would be a fool-man's bet. They followed Jarrad and 
Thai as if they were their shadows.
--Dave Smart

"If, and only if they attack, can we then return in kind. But not 
otherwise. Even if Eldarion himself walks through the door with his sword 
in hand, and rimmed in fire, we do not attack first."
--Paul Khangure

With that Zephyr began throwing on some clothes.  Anyone who saw
him had to chuckle, as he looked like he was being tied up with his
pants and shirt.  He had on leg through as well as one arm, but he
couldn't see and he kept tripping.
--Joe Christl

Hoping that thought would make his point completely clear Jarrad lounged
casually against one of the pillars, his sword free if he needed it.
Anything that came in should be better than Eldarion. He wasn't sure what 
could be worse and didn't particularly want to imagine it either.

He kept an equal watch on the main entrance from the corridor leading to 
the main doors, and the others who were positioning themselves around the 
room with varying degrees of readiness.
--Paul Raj Khangure

Finally, he got situated well enough, and grabbed his sword.  He
headed towards the main hallway and sat himself in a chair to the
side, picking at his fingernails to seem inconspicuous.  He too was
barefoot, but he looked fairly neat, shirt tucked in and all.  He freed
up the tie holding his sword in the scabbard, for a quick easy
withdraw.
--Joe Christl
  
Zeph sent out feelers towards and through the main door, but was 
alarmed to find not a trace of harm or naught, behind the large 
gate. ::Thai?::
--Dave Smart

As Cari found a place for herself in the quiet shadows, she wondered if 
the tower's ettiquete was enforced by any magic, or simply by honor. And 
she remembered how many honorable and good individuals she saw die because 
they were betrayed by neighbors or had fought someone who played by no rules.
No, she would not break Jarrad's injunction, though she knew most 
of her honor had died long ago. She settled to wait warily in her shadows, 
wishing for even a simple daggar. 

As she waited she again wondered about Semareth, but this time she 
sensed, without trying, that he was in the room. She wondered at this, 
but since he had not made his presence known she did not disturb him.
--Cathy Mosley

Thai dressed quicly, then headed straight for the main door. If the 
visitor was an enemy, she would be able to give the group a few seconds 
warning, hopefully enough to make a difference.

As she approached the main door, she heard, for the briefest second, a 
faint beat of wings, then disimissed it as some accoustical trick.

The door opened, and an elf entered and began walking towards the stairs 
where Thai stood.

::Greetings:: sent Thai, as the door swung shut behind the elf. The elf 
seemed not to hear it, but continued in a shmbling stumble towards the 
stairs.

::Can you hear me?:: Thai questioned, but to no avail. The elf continued 
stumbling and Thai moved to let it pass, getting a brief glimpse of dull 
eyes, before the elf passed.

Following the elf down the stairs, she continued to send to him, not 
receiving any response or indication the elf had heard.

As the elf neared the main hall, Thai sent ahead ::It's an elf, but he 
seems to be in a trance of sorts.:: Then followed the elf into the hall.

As the elf surveyed the room, Thai moved over to stand near Jarrad and 
Zephillia.
--Paul Raj Khangure

The sound of approaching footsteps grew louder, and a single elf walked 
into the room. Jarrad began to relax a little - at least it was something 
he had met before - until he had a closer look at the elf's face.

It was as stiff as a board, fixed in a half leering grin, a small amount 
of drool dribbling from one corner of his mouth. The eyes were the most 
haunting though, completely devoid of life, they were a dulled blue, 
glazed over as if in death. The whole face was framed in a tangle of limp 
blond hair.

The elf looked slowly around the room, the dead eyes seeming to take 
everything in. He seemed to recognize Zephillia, and directed his words 
at her.
                             
"I bring a message from Eldarion." The elf's voice was flat and toneless. 
His posture stooped slightly.

Zeph started at that, and tensed up as if a coil ready to spring.

There was a slight pause, and then the elf seemed to change dramatically, 
straightening, his voice taking on a booming deeper tone, echoing around 
the chamber. A voice that sounded vaguely familiar to Jarrad.  Eldarion's 
voice.

"Greetings cousin, you look beautiful, as always." An insane peal of laughter 
followed, lasting a good half a minute. "The game grows interesting at last."
The elf turned, surveying the others in the room. "Welcome to my game.....
<giggle>....my....<giggle>..friends"  He turned back to Zephillia.  "Pawn to 
Queen's two....Check."

Another peal of insane laughter echoed around the room. The body then 
slumped briefly, before an agonising scream emanated from it. The previously 
lifeless eyes now held more pain than was imaginable as the body slowly 
expanded, as if it was being pumped full of air.

Everything seemed to happen in slow motion, as Zeph screamed out "NOOOOOO!",
did a half twist, and bowled into both Jarrad and Thai, knocking the two
down.

The body expanded to twice the size of a normal elf, then exploded, 
scattering gore everywhere, the internal organs were diced and sprayed 
everywhere, a limb ending in each corner of the huge hall, the head 
remaining in the center, landing neck down, and still staring at Zephillia.

Remembering this trick of Eldarion's, and how it had cost her an eye, Zeph 
had erected a hasty shield, which deflected the bone shrapnel.  This type of
shield only lasted moments, however, and the gore which for a moment hung 
suspended in the air, quickly rained down upon everyone who was near the 
entryway.  

Zeph looked at the head with a sense of pity for her elven kin, and was thus
startled when it began to laugh again.
--Dave Smart & Paul Khangure

A shocked stillness filled the room, disturbed only by the skull's insane 
and mocking laughter. Being so far from the explosion had protected Cari 
from most of the gore. She sat up and felt anger and grief well within 
her. ++We should have let you burn, Eldarion,++ she thought to herself 
with regret. This might be only one possible future, but it followed all 
too logically from the world they had left.
--Cathy Mosley

Suddenly there was the sound of cloth being torn, then Zeph moved 
out from her shadow and quickly wrapped the grinning head with a 
piece of her cloak. The sight of the animated skull had shaken her. 
She handed it over to Tel and quickly bid him to dispose of the 
only remaining piece of the poor elf that still could be 
recognised as part of a humanoid. Zeph could not help but grimace, 
hearing the muffled sounds of laughter as the man carried away his 
gruesome prize. That done, the red-headed mage turned to her new 
compatriots and asked if all was well. Except for the fact that all 
were quite shaken from the experience an explanation was wanting.

"It would seem as though my cousin has given you all a taste of 
what a sick, demented, maniac he truly is. To all, the game is a 
foot." 
--Dave Smart

Jarrad's hands were shaking as he wiped something, that could have been 
intestine, out of his eyes. He was extremely irritated now. 

"We have to clean this up. One of the conditions for using the citadel is 
leaving it in equal if not better condition than we arrived ...  Magic 
may have to be used to save time."
--Paul Raj Khangure

"Knight to Queen's 2." she muttered more to herself than anyone.
--Dave Smart

"Pawn", Jarrad muttered to himself. "Pawn to Queen's 2". "If that is how 
he uses his pawns, then he is likely to throw away other pieces just as 
easily." Jarrad didn't like the way he was accepting the loos of life as 
just game pieces, but it was necessary for any chance of success. "A 
useful strategy could be do set up traps, something to get Eldarion to 
think that sacrificing another piece, a higher ranking piece, would be 
worth it. That Dardt dragon perhaps. I bet it is his queen."
--Paul Khangure

"What?" asked someone who was busily attempting to rid themselves 
of the mess that now coated their garment.

"It's our move, she bellowed; "and I suggest we do it rather 
quickly." Then eyeing Thai she went on, "It's quite obvious. He 
knows we have teamed up."
--Dave Smart

"He is likely to know Thai a little, and has seen me briefly. Dryctor has 
had no contact with him, and I don't know about Semareth and the others.
He may not know who you have teamed up with, perhaps just that you have 
teamed up. Do not assume to much, nor too little." Said Jarrad, before
Thai responded.
--Paul Khangure

Then taking Legolas's arm she made for their room and shouted back 
to the others, "we should be ready to leave within the hour. Please 
do like wise."
--Dave Smart

Cari stood up, carefully, as the floor was slippery with gore. As she did 
so she stepped on something solid. She was sorry she looked down - 
beneath her foot was the Elf's arm and hand.

She stepped clear.
--Cathy Mosley
  
Continuing his muttering on plans and strategies, Jarrad grabbed a spare 
set of clothes and wiped the thick of the gore away before changing. The 
dried stuff in his hair would have to wait.
--Paul Khangure

Strawberry had just time to poke his head past his rooms' threshold 
to witness the pair of elves wiz by. "What the?" he muttered, then 
looked at the scene in the fourier. His face painted a green 
picture of disgust and he made a quick retreat to his wash basin 
where the sounds of retching could be heard by all.

"Damn dragon", Jarrad thought to himself. "I hope he gets some confidence 
and courage soon, We can't afford a weak link against Eldarion. We need 
everything we can get though ... I hope Proctor Benedict can help in some 
way."
--Paul Raj Khangure

It was not long whence Zeph had returned to her sleeping quarters.
Mere seconds behind Tel who still held his nasty prize. "O.K.,"
said she. "Place the messengers head upon that table." She pointed
at a tiny oak table that was the only other furniture within the
room other than the beds. With her other hand she placed a finger
over her lips in a gesture requesting silence from all that filled
the crowded bed-chamber. "All will be told in due time. Now, I need
your silence and concentration, for what I plan on doing next will
require your energies. Please surround the table, holding each
others hands. Celesta, stand by me...I will need your help."

Soon, Tel had placed the animated head of the messenger upon the
table as instructed and removed the cloth that encapsulated it. No
sooner than the light shone upon its grim face, it smiled up at
Zeph and giggled, "haven fun yet couzzz?<giggle>" She glared back
in response.

"Concentrate," she ordered. "Like I have shown all of you before."
Her inquisitors did as she commanded. Chanting she forced her and
the collective will of her soldiers upon the skull before her. Her
simple desire was to see into the mind of her cousin. What plans
did he have for them? What did he know of them and their schemes?
Her ultimate goal here was to get into Eldarion's mind set. There
were risks. To touch his madness may cause more harm than what the
risk was worth. But she had to try. Eldarion had used this elf as
a messenger and the magics used could be turned around to aid her
side.

Seconds passed and visions began to fill Zeph's mind. It was
working. Soon she could see the elf standing before his master.
Eldarion sat on his terrible throne of bone. He then stretched a
hand out towards his servant. His arm reached out beyond normal
proportions. The limb stretch as if it were a python. The hand
landed upon the elf's head and great agony reached forth. Blinding
white pain enveloped her. Madness laughed its hideous, gloating,
thrill laugh about her soul. She was slipping. If only she could...
Suddenly she was stable. A ghost resembling Celesta stood by her
smiling. A sense of sanity emanated from the girl. Shaking the
cobwebs from her mind, Zeph sought further into the elfs mind, but
the task was a difficult one. Many of the memory and thought paths
were decaying or being destroyed. Eldarion! He was here too. Terror
filled her, but she went on. The risk was high, but she had to
chance it. Spine tingling laughter could be heard echoing from the
gloomy distance.

There! At last. Some intelligence could be captured from the poor
pawn-messenger. Dardts' lair. It was now known. Finally. Her sudden
joy at the unexpected find almost handed her her final defeat at
her cousin's mind. Again, pain hit her like a rock from the sky.
She careened about as if in a stupor. She was lost and the thrill
laughter was growing in its intensity. "Youuuu fooolishhhh
girrrrrlllll <laughter> Youuuu should not strut about in places
were youuuu do not belong <more laughter>.

Just as when all seamed its bleakest, Celesta was once again
present in her ghostly form to straighten the path for Zeph.
Without hesitation, Zeph took hold of the ghost's hand and they
fled the plane they were inhabiting. Screams of anger then of
taunting followed, but died away. They were back in their bed
chamber, bathed in sweat. The head of the dead elf was nothing but
a blackened skull before them. No more use could be made of the 
wretched soul and they quickly dispensed of it within the hearth.
The fire soon consumed it. "I know the location of Dardt's lair."
Come, let us join the others and be off to Benedict's. Much work
lies ahead."

The small group of thirteen elves soon made their way to the palace
fourier. They would wait for the others here.
--Dave Smart

Taking a few minutes to bundle his gear, Jarrad headed back to the main 
hall, where he used some telekenisis to gather the thick of the gore, and 
burn't it, sending all the somke and stench up the chimney. SOmeone else 
would have to deal with the quickly drying blood however.
--Paul Raj Khangure

The moments after the grisly message from Eldarion passed slowly for 
Semareth. Zeph strode quickly from the room, accompanied by her men, and 
the elf's head was carried away to be disposed of. 

Semareth had stood expectantly as the elf had entered the room, lifting 
his sword before him as he listened. When the messenger's gaze had been 
directed at him for an instant, something inside him had screamed. It had 
been a scream of rage and anguish, as accusational as a pointed finger. 
The elf _smelt_ of corruption, of Xeen.

Now he stood in the aftermath of the message's gory finish, still holding 
his cloak up before him. It dripped of fleshly oddities, streaked in an 
abstract imitation of heraldic imagery. He let it drop from his 
shoulders, and he sheathed his sword.

He thought now, on what both the messenger and Zephyllia had said. It was 
a game they had talked about. He knew it well. His first thought was of 
how he had wondered how long it had been since he had been game hunting. 
Now he had found one.

His second thought was grimmer.

Looking at the group around him, he wondered what piece _they_ were in 
this game (pawn or knight? bishop or king?). Also, he wondered, which 
pieces would fall first?
--Nick Takayama

She found it easy to agree with Zephillia's assessment. She started to 
head towards the stairs when Jarrad began to telekinetically gather what 
was left of the major body parts into a pile on the hearth. As she 
watched the floating limbs, which continued to drip gore, Cari was again 
struck by the feeling of being in a waking nightmare. 

She steadied herself by remembering her lessons in dream healing - never 
get completely drawn into a vision was the first one. 

Cari looked down at the front of her tunic and noted that it was little 
stained since she had laying face down, but her back felt damp and her 
hair was sticking to her shirt. ++I'll wash up later,++ she thought, 
going to the kitchen to get a bucket of water and a mop.
--Cathy Mosley

Draca had been working in the kitchens for the last two hours, and the 
venison stew was bubbling merrily over the fire.  She had even managed to 
spit some of the small game, and it, too, was nearly done.  (She had 
learned long ago, when cooking for the dragon Elders, how to work quickly 
and efficiently.)  

When the doorbell rang, she sent to Thai:  *I shall remain in the 
kitchen, for some of the food is nearly cooked, and might otherwise 
burn.  Keep me as informed as you deem necessary.*

A short while later, a wave of anguish, shock, and (esp. Zeph) 
terror washed over her.  Concerned, she once again contacted Thai, asking 
if her assistance were required.  She received her answer in a somewhat 
more graphic manner than expected, for Cari soon appeared at the door, 
looking for a mop...
--Margaret Tayti

She didn't consider her mopping job good, but time was of the essence. 
And she did want to get some of the gore off the only clothes she had.

Cari hurried upstairs to her room, stripped off her clothes. These she 
used a damp cloth to take the worse of the mess off, and then she poured 
water over her head and into the wash basin.  
  
She finished up by toweling everything as dry as possible,and quickly 
braiding her wet hair. Then she went to meet the others.
--Cathy Mosley

With the last of the disgusting mess that was once an elf magically off
of her clothes and out of her hair, Thai felt only slightly better. She
barely nodded when Zeph decreed an hour till leaving. Five minutes was
more than enough time in her opinion. Only the elves knew what
Eldarion-Xeen might send next.

She crossed the room to Strawberry and helped him brush the worst of the
stuff off his clothes.  ::Strawberry, do you have time to talk for a few
minutes?::

He did, so Thai led him out a side door from the hall. They emerged a few
minutes later in one of the underground sections of the citadel.  Thai
didn't mention just how far under the mountain they really were. She went
down a low flight of stone steps and stopped inside a muraled, vaulted
room. Other than a huge stone bowl and ten statues of warriors from olden
days, the room was empty but for themselves.

::Have you ever been to this plane before Strawberry?:: At his negative
head shake she continued.  ::Over a thousand years ago demons ruled this
plane. The races left behind by the gods were their playthings, their
armies. Eventually the gods returned or new gods took their places. The
demons imprisoned some of the gods. The other gods retaliated and after a
great struggle, the Great War, the demons were banished to the shadows. 
The ten sons of our greatest hero became our first kings. He had died that 
the demons might be exiled you see.::

Thai looked at Strawberry for a moment then back at the statues.  ::The
Ten Kings ruled well and wisely until one day a foolish prince recalled
the worst of the demons. He bound the demon by an oath to destoy all the
kindred of his hated cousin, but it was a foolish oath and he was the
first to die from it. Most of his kindred died too before they could get
to safety. Those that made it here to this citadel sacrificed themselves
to send the demon back. The Ten Kings were turned into statues that they 
might guard against the demon's return for all time.::

::I'm sorry, I'm rambling. What I meant to say was that I know you're not
a fighter like the rest of us. When you decided to come anyway I was
glad.:: She smiled. 
--Phaedra Whitlock

Strawberry didn't think she was rambling. He hung onto every word she
entered into his brain via the grean crystal as if they were golden
charms.
--Dave Smart

::The problem is that I didn't think Xeen was going to
be insane. The last time he existed he tried to kill off or enslave all
of dragonkind. You and Draca may be at risk. I think that you two should
both go with Zeph if at all possible, but I wanted your opinion before
I brought it up in front of everyone. I didnt want you to feel left out.::
--Phaedra Whitlock
  
The tall man before her nodded with a sincere expression plastered across
his pallid face. The color was slow in returning from his earlier experience.
::I will go with Zeph and Draca if they will have me,:: responded Strawberry. 
::Is this is your wish?:: He waited her response with a tiny question bouncing
within his brain. "Does Thai believe me to be draconian in nature? This is
so odd. It is not the first time I have been puzzled by this question." Then,
like a puff a smoke caught within a draft, the strange feeling disappeared.

::It is.::

::Fear not of the risk that hangs over my head or any that follow you,:: he
said. ::For we do so of our own free will, with open and wide eyes. But,
what of you and the others...will you not be following Zeph's path?::
--Dave Smart
  
::Eldarion - Xeen is likely to be a little obsessed with his cousin. It 
may be necessary to go in separate groups.::

AS the conversation ended, Thai headed back the way they had come, into 
the main hall. Spotting Dryctor and Zephyr, she approached them.

:: Will one or both of you be able to arrange the transport to Proctor 
Benedict? The travel to here, after the inital travelling, was extremely 
taxing:: sent Thai. How taxing, they would not know, sufficient to say 
she could not teleport even herself any great distance at this stage.

Seeing that waif who travelled with Semareth carrying a bucket, Thai 
viewed her briefly through mage vision again.

::Faerie Child ....::, Thai addressed Cari privately, not knowing her name. 
::Can you check with Zephyr or Dryctor as to any spells to clean teh room 
first? It would take more hours than we have to use a bucket and mop::
--Paul Khangure

Cari stopped, startled by Thai's mode of address. She set the heavy 
bucket down and looked at Thai. :: . . . I will ask them. Though I'll 
also do what I can.:: She tilted her head and studied the taller Elven 
woman with green eyes that had held a look of determination, touched with 
puzzlement. ::But as to Faerie child . . .:: she shook her head, ::That I 
cannot claim - I am human, born of Northern farmer stock.::
--Cathy Mosley

Heading into the kitchen, Thai spoke briefly with Draca. ::I recall you 
saying that you had not enough strength to teleport us, so I have asked 
Dryctor or Zephyr to. I also need to talk to you about Zephillia and 
Strawberry. When we get to Eldarion, he is more likely than not to rage 
at the sight of dragons, or elves. Strawberry will be staying with 
Zephillia, and I would ask that you travel with their party as well. 
Zephillia is more likely than not going to head an alternate way into 
Xeen's lair, and I need someone to make sure she doesn't betray us. Can 
you keep an eye on her and Strawberry both?::
--Paul Khangure

*I will do as you suggest, if that is what is needed.  I am 
sufficiently recovered to assist with the teleport, if required, but 
would rather conserve my strength.  I have a feeling that I will likely 
be taxed to my limits before this excursion is over, regardless of my 
placement.  My main concern is for Strawberry, for a Drake is most 
vulnerable when its nature and abilities are unfathomed.  I may have some 
ability to resist Xeen's 'charm', for I am not fully draconic, and I have 
a 'tool' or two that may help.  I really should speak to you and the 
others prior to our departure, for there may arise some difficulties 
should I be injured...*
--Margaret Tayti

::We should have much time for discussion at Proctor Benedicts, but if 
it is urgent, or extremely important, I have time now. We will be leaving 
soon however, if you have things to take care of. ::
--Paul Khangure