Previously on Warriors of Destiny: Victory, it was a long and arduous battle, but in the end the Warriors triumphed. Daegriss, the Dark God was dispersed, sent back to his evil realm to toil until his power eventually returns to him.
Though the forces of good prevailed, not all of our group remained in Aventine to celebrate. Stryder, his family curse wreaking insanity upon him, fled with Kyra in his arms. The two finding themselves on a strange planet somewhere in the mortal realms.
The others who remained in the great city were given a well earned rest, while the city�s populous began to rebuild Aventine. With a victory celebration on the horizon, only destiny knows what lies in store for our heroes.
*Time passed: Several days*
The rebuilding of Aventine is a slow process, many of the shattered buildings and ruined streets are still in shambles, but the city and castle walls are nearing completion. Castle servants buzz about the corridors and grand hall like bees, carting decorations and The soft mid-morning�s light dances across the tops of the castle spires, casting a diminishing shadow across the white city. Civilians and soldiers alike are busy hauling stone and wood to various re-constructions in progress, the sounds of their work echoing softly through the castle�s many windows and balconies.
Syne grunts under the weight of the large support and cross beam he is holding up as a pair of soldiers secure it to the roofless remains of an inn. His gaze drifts towards the castle, several floors up to the balcony of Katie�s room. �I should go see her�� he mutters to himself, the beam slipping a bit as he does.
Valrash pulls a cart of stones around delivering them to their proper places.
Luna stands on the roof of the temple watching the repairs going on around the city.
Shadow looks down from the castle at the construction.
Katie stares at the empty bed across the room. �My little thief. Where have ye gone?�
Elsewhere: �No...stop...no�� muttered words slip from Stryder as he drifts in and out of consciousness on the straw mat on the floor of the lakeside hut. Velyn, an ivory colored humanoid-wolf, checks the boy�s forehead for temperature, then glances over at Kyra, motioning her to bring him the thick mixture cooking above the fire nearby.
Kyra brings the pot with trembling hands, her gaze going to Stryder once more, her eyes showing her confusion.
�There we go...finished!� Eclipse calls out from behind Luna as he finishes nailing in the metal bolt securing the last tile of the temple roof.
Cara stands looking out of the window of her room, still trying to come to terms with the fact that Stryder claimed to love her, and at the same time wanted her dead.
Luna turns to Eclipse with a smile, �That didn�t take you long at all.�
DracBlue stands outside Cara�s door watching all who come near the room.
Katie�s swollen red eyes swivel to the window as she hears the repairs, and she gets up from her own bed and crosses to the balcony, leaning one hip against it and watching the workers scurrying around.
Velyn nods to Kyra, then scoops a spoonful of the orange liquid -near paste from it�s consistency- up to Stryder. Aiding his body in swallowing, he sighs and glances over at Kyra, speaking softly in his not yet understandable language to her. �Nikaj al dinir, Kyra.� He touches her shoulder as he stands, and moves back to the two carved tree trunks serving as tables.
�Not long, but my arm is almost numb from all the hammering,� Eclipse says shaking his right arm as he stands.
Kyra kneels next to Stryder, watching him, wanting to reach out and touch him, but her eyes are full of fear.
Luna steps carefully across the tiles to his side and rubs his arm gently. �Here, let me help,� she purrs.
In his semi-conscious daze, Stryder leans his head over to Kyra. He seems to smile weakly before plunging back into the mental chaos inside his head.
Tabris looks over at Claron, �If you�re going to go, then go. Standing there with food on the plate isn�t going to get Katie to eat it, babe.� He nods to her, then looks out their room door down the hallway.
Kyra�s eyes well up again. �I wish I knew what was going on in that brain of yours, Stryder. One minute I think I know you, and the next�.� she sighs and lays her head down next to his.
Kabal knocks gently on Cara�s door, then stands to the side allowing a pair of curious chambermaids to pass him, and go into a fury of whispers once they believed themselves far enough away.
DracBlue looks at Kabal and says, �Hello,� then turns his attention back to the others wandering the halls.
Claron nods her head, �It�s just�she hasn�t been very receptive to anything I have tried. I am really worried about her. Maybe...this time will be different,� smiling halfheartedly to Tabris before heading for Katie�s room.
�Kyra, ordo aj tun,� Velyn calls softly to her as he sets a carved bone plate with some bread and local fruit on the large carved stump serving as the dining table.
Syne curses lightly as he nearly trips over a broken piece of wall on his way to hoist up the next support beam. Glancing up at the castle again, he notes the figure standing on the previously empty balcony and waves.
Kyra looks up and nods. Rising, she goes and nibbles halfheartedly on some fruit, her eyes locked on the struggling figure.
Kabal nods to Drac, �Greetings. Still the ever-faithful bodyguard, I see.�
^Shinta stands talking to Jakuzzi while moving some debris. �So�young one, you still want to be one of us?�
Cara glances over her shoulder as she hears the knock at her door. �Yes?�
DracBlue just nods.
Katie stares down, barely seeing. She lifts her hand in a brief wave, and nibbles her lower lip as fresh tears start.
Tewyn uses his powers to help lift some stones up to a tower while others place them. �Whew, this is hard work,� wiping his brow.
�Well, I dunno�� Jakuzzi grunts girlishly as she hoists a stone half as large as the one Shinta is carrying. �All that fighting stuff seems hard...but the traveling sounds fun!�
^Shinta nods, �Well, you don�t get the perks without the danger...So, how many demons did the mighty young dragon slay?�
Claron takes a deep breath as she stands in front of Katie�s door, then knocks.
Luna places a light kiss on Eclipse�s upper arm, �I don�t suppose you�re ready to take a break?�
Katie perches on the balcony wall, looking straight down at the ground beneath her. Hearing the knock, she turns her eyes to the door. �It�s open,� she says dully.
Jakuzzi lowers her head, �One...it was the meanest, scariest imp in the lands, though! I caught it trying to crawl in through one of the refuse shafts. Boy, did it stink!�
^Shinta chuckles and carves a notch on her oversized armor, �Always mark the first one...And now, you have a warrior story of your own to tell, young one.�
Claron gently opens the door, �Katie�� her eyes growing large as she sees her perched on the balcony wall.
Jakuzzi smiles and tosses the stone into a large horse-drawn cart slowly filling up with various stones.
Katie looks at her best friend with dead eyes. �Hello, Claron.�
Tewyn continues moving stones, �Well, where the hell is that blonde lady I like to do the pokey-pokey with?�
�I suppose. A common hall down the road said they needed help with their flooring, but it can wait for a bit,� Eclipse smiles at Luna and caresses her cheek.
Valrash looks at Shinta and Jakuzzi loading the cart and nods.
^Shinta looks at Jakuzzi, �Did he smell bad as that one?� giving a nod over his shoulder and a smirk.
Velyn goes back to check on Stryder, nodding a bit at some unseen improvement.
Claron�s heart sinks as she sees the dead look in Katie�s eyes, �I do wish you would try and eat something, Kat. Look�I have brought all your favorite foods,� moving over towards her.
Jakuzzi giggles as she looks around for another stone to grab, �Worse, and he wasn�t as tall.�
^Shinta nods chuckling some more and tossing a few more stones in the cart, �Then, he never had a chance against the mighty Jakuzzi!�
�I keep this up, I may start asking for a salary,� Syne comments with some mixed comments from the soldiers securing the support beam as he holds it steady.
Tabris sighs, loitering in the hall, several rooms down from Katie�s.
Katie looks at tray and sighs. �You win. I�ll eat.�
�It�s me,� Kabal calls to Cara�s door. Glancing at Drac he waits.
Luna closes her eyes at his touch, �How about we get something to eat before moving to a new project? We could stop in the great hall for a few minutes.�
Clarice approaches Tewyn from behind, carrying a basket of food and drink, �Missing me?� she chuckles.
Kyra eats another fruit, then goes back to Stryder�s side.
Tewyn turns around, �Well, I�m missing something.�
�I was lucky he fell back into the shaft...imagine the odor he�d of left in m�lady�s carpets!� Jakuzzi says with a small-fanged smile as she leans over to pick up small broken pieces of a larger wall stone.
^Shinta nods, �Yes, one would rather fight than clean carpets any day...Heaven forbid, if he wasn�t potty trained.�
Claron smiles softly, �It�s about time, Kat.�� setting the plate of food on the table.
Katie picks up the tray and goes to sit on her bed, picking at the food on the tray with no interest.
Blinking his eyes several times, Stryder looks around the hut groggily. His gaze settling on Kyra, he blinks again, �K-kyra? Oh, my head�� His hand goes wearily up to clutch his temple.
Kyra strokes Stryder�s temples soothingly. �My poor darling,� she croons, cradling his head to her chest.
�Sounds good, I hear they�ve begun setting up for the celebration,� Eclipse says to Luna, leading her towards the stone stairs descending around the inside of the temple�s bell tower.
Claron pulls a chair up close to the bed and sits down, maternally watching Katie.
Luna follows Eclipse down the stairs, �Yes, it�s been a long time since we�ve had anything to celebrate.�
Tewyn turns around to face Clarice, �So, what did you bring to eat?�
Clarice smiles, �Thought the two of you could use some refreshments,� holding the basket out for Tewyn and Shinta to see.
Tewyn looks and picks through the basket, �Well damn dear, where be the grubs and mushrooms?�
�One more, then I�m taking a break, guys,� Syne says as he hoists a smaller support column from the ground and positions it where instructed.
^Shinta taps Jakuzzi on the shoulder, �Care to share in some of the food...and take a break?�
Clarice chuckles, �Just about everything one could want, minus grubs and worms...I am afraid.�
�Well, you didn�t cover everyone, then.� Tewyn states.
Katie looks apologetically at her friend. �It�s all come back to haunt me, Claron. Seeing Stryder standing over Cara�and then, what Kyra did�.� she shudders, �I know you hate that I�m still afeared of him.�
Jakuzzi nods, �Sure, thanks.� She smiles at Shinta and clears a spot on the grass to sit.
Valrash pulls the cart down the street. He mumbles, �Remedial labor is what you wanted me to do mother, ehh.� He sighs and keeps pushing the cart.
^Shinta grabs some food and takes a seat, �So, young dragon, why don�t you entertain us Warriors and tell the tale of your intense battle.�
Tewyn sits with Clarice and looks over to the others, �Oh, did that lil lady do some ass kicking, then I must hear this.�
Claron nods her head, �I know, Kat. You are not the only one that it brought the past flooding back to.� The memory of Tabris inside the volcano, crazed, still fresh in her own mind as well.
Kyra�s tears fall on Stryder�s face. �Love is a new thing to me, but I really don�t think it�s supposed to go this way,� she whispers.
Katie gets up and walks to the balcony, then turns. �I know what they say about me. Tis what they�ve always said. Tis true enough that I�m losing my mind. But�Kyra�s like a bairn to me.�
Jakuzzi giggles as she snacks on a purple fruit and sits on the grass, �Well, I was doing my noble duty keeping safe the outer corridors of m�lady�s castle, when a fearsome scratching sounded in a nearby chamber. My trusty spear in hand, I strode forth, unaware of the danger awaiting me!� Throwing her arms in gestures, Jakuzzi tries to be as flamboyant as possible.
�Oh, must of been terrifying,� ^Shinta says while smiling.
Clarice gives Tewyn a �you know I can�t watch you eat that stuff� kind of look. �Yes, do tell us all about it,� smiling to Jakuzzi.
�Well, I suppose this fruit will do,� Tewyn snacks on some out of the basket.
Cara sighs deeply, �Come on in, Kabal.�
�L-love?� Stryder mutters, looking at Kyra with some curiosity and caring in his expression.
Kabal opens the door, giving Drac a final nod as he slips inside the room. �So, been in here all morning have you?�
Kyra looks down into his handsome face, �Yes, you ninny. Love. That thing I swore I�d never get tangled up in.�
Jakuzzi stands as she continues, �The scratching continued, like daggers on stone.� She clenches her fangs imitating a grating noise, �But bravely did I continue on, the refuse shaft is where the foul sounds came from. Little did we think to look in there! For what fiend in it�s right mind would choose such a foul entrance!�
Claron jumps up and follows Kat, placing her hand on her shoulder, �I know�� her own heart feeling like it has been shredded to pieces, knowing the hurt that Katie is feeling all to well.
�And then what?� Tewyn gives his attention over to the dragon.
Katie sighs, �And wee Stryder,� she hugs her best friend tightly to her, the pulls back. �Poor Kyra. She doesna know what is going on with him. She�s out there somewhere with a madman, and she doesna even know what she�s up against.�
Cara turns to look at Kabal, �I have�� her cheeks still damp from recently shed tears.
�Still I continued on, the odor fouler than usual, giving away the fiends approach! Carefully behind my silver shield did I peer into the filth-ridden shaft!� Jakuzzi takes several steps forward, clearly overacting her motions.
�And what did meet my eyes, but the ugliest, meanest, fiercest looking demon this side of the fire rivers! It�s foot long talons clawing at the stone as it made it�s way up the dark shaft!�
Tewyn looks at Valrash, �See what happens when you leave baby brother unattended.�
Leading Luna through the castle gates, Eclipse smiles and waves to Shinta and company, a curious look on his face as he watches Jakuzzi doing her imp impression.
�I wish...I should have...made the time. Forgive me. It�s my fault��Claron implores.
�It�s about Stryder, isn�t it,� Kabal sits on the bed, looking over at Cara with some concern.
Stryder smirks weakly, �And here you are...up to your eyeballs in it.� He lifts a hand to touch her face.
Velyn watches the two casually, not wanting to disturb their exchange despite his little understanding of their words. He had begun to understand some of it, from the few times the young girl had actually spoken to him.
Katie clucks, �It isna yer fault, Claron. It isna anyone�s fault. Stryder must endure what his father and grandfather before him did. I only hope his love for Kyra is strong enough ta keep him from�� she shudders, �from�killing her.�
Luna follows Eclipse from the temple to the castle quietly. Then steps past him as they enter the castle. Leading him to the great hall. Moving over to a table against the wall laden with food I pick up two plates and hand him one. �It all looks good.�
�Indeed...some of these I haven�t seen in ages, and some never.� Eclipse eyes the many foodstuffs on plates and platters of varying sizes.
Cara turns back to look out the window to avoid answering Kabal.
Kyra gives him a trembling smile, still laced with a good bit of fear. �I told you I would die with my love for you on my lips. I�m still alive�and so too is my love for you.�
Dusting his hands off, Syne gives a nod to the three soldiers fixing the inn. Turning, he starts idly heading down the main road towards the castle.
�It will be�� says Claron.
DracBlue pulls out his last bar of iron and sighs, �Have to go back to scrounging for iron soon; I wonder if they have any rations for my species here?� He sighs again and chomps into his last bar.
Katie goes and grabs the tray, bringing it out onto the balcony with her, and setting it on the table there. �I wish I could be as sure,� she says, popping another bite in her mouth.
Jakuzzi continues, hardly aware of her audience now, �Growing ever closer to defiling the castle interior was the imp. But that I could not allow. So when it�s devilish limbs were within reach, I thrust at them with my mighty spear. First left, then right, but the demon would not fall! Growling defiance at me he continued upwards! Quickly did I glance around, and what should I spot but a day�s old roast, half finished from the nightly meal!�
Claron stands quietly, secretly wishing the same thing, and uncertain of what to say.
^Shinta exclaims, �Oh, brave dragon!�
Katie gives Claron a sad look. �You should be with your mate, Claron. Not hovering over the likes of me.�
Tewyn licks his lips, �Day old roast you say...yumm.�
Luna takes her plate and sits at a nearby table. Looking around at all the other people as she waits for Eclipse to join her.
�Summoning up all my strength did I lift it, the foul odors in the air combating me now as well, but I would not falter!� Jakuzzi raises her arms holding the imaginary roast in the air, �And with the rotting meat over my head thus, did I smash it atop the demon�s head. And down the two fell into the stinky depths below the castle. If the crack upon his skull killed him not, surely the aging rot would!�
Tabris leans against the wall, minding an ornate tapestry across the hall with a half-interested glance.
^Shinta proclaims, �Let it be known, that Jakuzzi saved the goddess. And let her be respected throughout this land!�
�I�ll take that as a yes,� Kabal nods and looks at Cara�s back, �Over the years I�ve gotten tired of seeing your back, sister. You cared for him, did you not?�
Jakuzzi strikes a heroic pose, then plops back down on the ground, her oversized armor rattling a bit around her frame.
Valrash brings the cart back emptied and then sits down.
�What a story, wow�I tell you�wish I were that brave,� Tewyn starts nudging Clarice to compliment Jacuzzi.
Eclipse sits next to Luna as a pair of servants bring a ladder over to a tower mage enchanting various lengths of colored silk ribbons for decoration.
Claron shakes her head, �No. Not till I have the old Katie back...besides, he is being very supportive.�
Katie�s eyes go vacant, �The old Katie is dead, Claron. She perished at the hands of a madman.�
Stryder smiles, then lowers his hand. Trying wearily to lean up, he looks over at Velyn with some confusion, �Who�s that, Kyra?�
Cara turns back around, �Yes...very much.�
Kyra looks over her shoulder, then back at Stryder. �I�m not sure, love. He was here when you brought us to this�place�wherever we are. He�s been taking care of us ever since. He�s awfully kind, and very knowledgeable.�
�And what he did...must be hard to accept or understand,� Kabal sighs, cursing himself mentally for wanting to say other, darker things.
Claron�s heart sinks at Katie�s words. �NO! I WILL NOT allow it.�
Kyra strokes his head, �From what I�ve been able to tell, I think his name is Velyn or something.�
�I see�� Stryder leans his head against the wooden wall of the hut, �Velyn, eh? How long was I out of it?� He rubs his right shoulder, an itch under his skin desiring attention.
Luna nibbles on various items from her plate as she watches the decorations going up.
Kyra sighs, �A few nights. I missed you something terrible,� she lightly scratches at his back absently. �I was afraid�� she looks pained, ��afraid you weren�t coming back.� She finishes in a whisper.
Clarice smiles, �I think that qualifies you as one of the Warriors now, Jakuzzi.�
Another servant, a gaunt looking maid, bows her head to Luna and Eclipse as she sets several ornate silver and gold candelabras on the long table they sit at.
^Shinta nods, �Indeed, at least an honorary one.�
Katie shrugs, �What you will and willna allow is hardly the point, is it?� her eyes remain unfocused.
Jakuzzi smiles with her small-fanged grin at the three, before hungrily munching a string of jerky.
Syne comes to halt mid-step to avoid crushing a small ball rolling towards him. Kneeling down, he picks it up and looks around for it�s owner. A small group of children come running up, their eyes going wide as he stands up and tosses it to them. �There ya go, tykes, go have fun.� Syne smirks as he watches them run off.
Claron sighs, �Dammit, Kat�You and I both have been through more than most...and it has never been in our natures to allow either one of us to give up.�
�Far too long since I was that young,� Syne comments as he continues of his way, exchanging nods with a passerby not absorbed wholly in their baskets or friends to notice him.
�Hmm...this is good, not sure what it is, but it�s good,� Eclipse holds up a half eaten pink-coated pastry stick, filled with a swirl of blue and white jam.
DracBlue pulls out a gem and starts carving a figurine out of it, watching the people that pass by the door.
Katie watches the commotion on the grounds dully, �I�m still here, Claron. Isna like I�ve given up the ghost. Though, sometimes I wish Rogue wouldna have spared me.�
Luna looks over at him and grins as she reaches out a paw and wipes some jam from his chin. �I think you�re wearing more than you�re eating.�
A servant boy lugging several large instrument cases passes Drac, offering a � �cuse me, sir,� from his limited view as he bumps the wall near Drac.
Claron looks dead serious at Katie, �Would you feel like that if it had been you that won Tab�s heart?�
Eclipse chuckles lightly, �Well, give me a break, I�ve only been mortal a few days.�
DracBlue moves out of the way of the servant boy and watches the door after the servant passes, then moves back to his station.
Katie blinks, her eyes confused. A soft sad smile touches her lips. �Aye, Claron, I would. I couldna have dealt with the things you have. But tis all just make-believe. He ended up with the woman of his dreams. He couldna have loved me like he loves you, my beautiful friend.�
�Wish I could say for certain that I am�� Stryder rubs his temple again. �But it�s like someone screaming at me in my head, but I�m just far enough away to not understand. Did I�� He looks down at his hands as if they were not his, �Did I hurt anyone?�
Kyra�s eyes widen. �Let�s not talk about that just now, my precious,� she whispers hoarsely.
�I did...didn�t I?� Stryder looks at Kyra, noticing her eyes widen at his question. �Who?�
Luna pulls her paw back and licks the jam from her fingers. �I think a break sounds wonderful. A nap would be lovely before we have to get ready for the dance.�
Velyn glances from the table to Kyra and Stryder. Then moves towards the leather flaps blocking the door, pushing them aside, he leaves to investigate something he sees outside.
Kyra closes her eyes, taking a deep breath. �I�Cara�I think you killed Cara.� She opens her eyes and chews her lip, watching her love�s face closely.
�Probably. This dance looks like it�ll go for quite a while,� Eclipse says, giving a quick studious glance around the room.
Stryder lowers his head as his expression saddens, �K...killed�� Lifting his hands, he buries his face in them, silent tears pressing their way past his fingers.
Kyra pulls his hand away and takes it in hers. �It is not certain. She may have been healed in time.� She looks away for a moment, tears beginning to fall down her face, as well. �Y�you said you loved her.� She looks back at him, �Do you? Do you really?� her pained expression shows her heartbreak.
Not far from Shinta, Tewyn and Clarice, a small group of tower mages weave their hands in intricate motions around the wagon loads of stone at their feet, melting the stones together into larger pieces. Wraith stands halfway up a ramp along the wall, using some magic of his own to lift the assembled stones into place on the wall.
Luna nods, �It could go until the dawn I suppose.� She leans over and kisses Eclipse quickly, �Are you coming with me, or joining me later?�
Tewyn looks around, �Well, that�s one way to put things back together.�
Cara looks puzzled at Kabal, �What I did, you mean.�� still standing firm in it being her fault, not Stryder�s.
Stryder looks at Kyra, gathering a breath to stem the tears, �I said that..� his gaze shifts, looking at something miles away beyond the far wall of the hut. �I...I don�t know. This dark voice...shouting at me...could it be��
�Yes...that�s what I meant,� Kabal gives Cara a look that tells her he believes otherwise. �Sister...did you? Did you love Stryder?�
Kyra swallows and nods. �Well then, I guess you will have to find that out for yourself.� She lets go of his hand and rises, wiping her eyes and beginning to briskly straighten up the hut, not looking at him, her voice forced.
Claron lowers her gaze, �Oh, Kat...some friend I am...not allowing you to grieve in your own way.�
Katie�s eyes go dull once more. �You�ve done the best you could, Claron. Nae one could ask more of you. You�ve yer own grieving to get on with.�
^Shinta stands again and goes back to moving the rocks.
Watching Kyra, Stryder sighs. �I�m sorry�� leaning his head back, he closes his eyes. �Guess I was a fool...to think what happened to Dad and grandfather wouldn�t happen to me. A bigger fool, that I got you stuck in my mess..�
Cara can see in Kabal�s eyes that he doesn�t buy her version one bit, �I did and do still, Kabal.�
�I see.� Kabal stands and moves towards the balcony. Looking over it at the city, he nods and turns to look at Cara once more. �I�ve seen him around that other girl, Kyra. He may not care for you the same way.�
Kyra�s hands still. Not turning, she asks in a small voice. �What happened to them? To you?�
DracBlue finishes a carving of Stryder and cuts it into little pieces, putting the pieces back in the bag.
Stryder chuckles a bit, seeming frustrated at himself. �To put bluntly...madness. It seems our curse, madness strikes and those dear to us suffer.�
Claron looks back up at Katie, �Whether I grieve or not...it still does not change all that has happened and it never will��
Kyra hitches in a breath as realization dawns. �Like Cara,� she whispers.
�I suppose now is as good a time as any,� Eclipse says as he pushes his plate away from the lip of the table.
Cara hears Kabal�s words, �Then�why would he tell me that he does?�
Stopping near the castle gates Syne glances around, �Looking better than it was a few days ago�� his gaze shifting towards the balcony again.
Katie looks at the balcony railing. �Nothing changes it, no. But ye shouldna be babysitting me while your poor husband is hurting too.�
�Only he can give you that answer,� Kabal shrugs as he leans back against the wide stone railing of the balcony, brown claws exploring it�s surface absently. �I just don�t want to see you heartbroken, Cara.�
Kyra busies herself again, her decision made. �Well then. Madness it is. Nobody is perfect.� She continues cleaning, her voice still full of forced brightness. �I talk to dead girls. Who am I to judge?�
Luna stands up and leads Eclipse out of the hall thru the castle to her apartment. As they move thru the cozy living room into the dark bedroom, she sighs. �I love my bed,� and crawls across it to lay down on her tummy.
�I guess we can be crazy together, then.� A heavy sigh accompanies Stryder�s tired sarcastic chuckle, �I suppose I should do something. Lying around like an invalid doesn�t help us figure out where we are.�
Valrash gets up and heads towards the castle.
�You�re not the only one,� Eclipse smirks as he sits on the edge of the bed then leans back, staring at the ceiling.
Kyra looks at him then. �You should rest up. It took a fair chunk out of you to get us here.�
Claron shakes her head, completely at a loss now, �Fine...I see...you are dismissing me. I�ll be back to pick up the tray later,� turns and heads out of Katie�s room quickly.
Katie looks at the door forlornly, �Forgive me,� she says to the empty room.
Luna moves closer to him and rests her head on his chest, listening to his heart beat as she closes her eyes.
�If I knew where here was...leave it to me to teleport us to god knows where in my insanity.� Sighing again, Stryder uses the wall to aid him in standing, wobbly legs signal his stumbling forward into the nearby wall.
Kyra rushes to his side, lending her strength. �You don�t listen very well, DuVallis.�
Cara places her hand on Kabal�s arm, �I know you don�t, Kabal.�
Eclipse watches Luna, �So, doctor, how does it sound? Beating properly for a mortal...whatever you�d call me now.�
Katie goes back to staring at the courtyard, her mind twisting and turning, along with her heart.
Claron�s eyes well up with tears as she rushes from Katie�s room and out into the hallway.
Tabris turns his attention to Claron as he notices her rush into the hallway. �Hun? Everything okay?�
�McKinnon are you yet moping over that which cannot be changed? Have I taught you nothing?� a new voice asks. Katie blinks. �I�m at a loss, Kyo. I don�t know what to do.�
Luna purrs sleepily, �It sounds purrfect.�
�Don�t you?� says the soft voice. Katie sighs.
Tewyn pulls Clarice up and smacks her on the ass, �Now, back to work.�
Eclipse lets out a light yawn, accompanied by a soft growling sound, �Well, that�s good��
�No, everything is not okay! How can it be? My best friend feels like she�s lost a child of her own...and fears for Kyra�s life because of our son. DAMN DuVallis curse!� Claron declares while burying her face into Tabris� chest.
In the grand hall, the servants begin setting out place settings on the long tables, after having moved them, giving the large room plenty of space in the center for the dancing and social chatter that would be taking place later.
Clarice jumps in mock surprise, �Right-O, drow!�
Katie traces patterns on the stone of the balcony with a finger.
�Well, tally-ho and chop-chop, we don�t have all day.� Tewyn replies back to Clarice.
Tabris wraps his arms around Claron, �It�s a damn curse indeed...and without a small league of telepaths locking it away, it may be a while before our son can control it.�
Claron: �Is that what Uncle used on you?�
Katie feels her hysteria welling, �Romeo, Romeo�where the fuck are you, dumb-ass?� she giggles, then begins to sob again.
�Runs in the family,� Stryder shakes his legs one after the other. �Guess lying down for a few days made them resentful of me.�
Kyra helps him to straighten up, her eyes on the far wall. �Guess so.�
Katie slumps over the railing, her tears pouring to the courtyard beneath. �It�s not fair, dammit!� she cries.
Now on the path to the castle, Syne glances almost straight up, thankful he has no bones in his neck to complain about. Perking his black werewolf ears, he catches the crying above.
Clarice smiles then shakes her behind at Tewyn, �But we will have all night.� Grabs the basket from the ground, gives Tewyn a quick peck on the cheek, then scurries back towards the castle.
Tewyn replies, �I�ll bring the water.�
�Yes...he wasn�t very happy when I nearly barbequed one of them,� Tabris sighs with a half-chuckle. �But he was a stubborn old bastard, and got that mental band-aid in place.�
^Shinta looks over to Clarice and Tewyn, his heart feeling that emptiness it�s felt all week anew again.
Katie sniffles, then wipes her eyes and stares at her hands.
Continuing into the castle, Syne shifts his gaze to watch servants rushing to the grand hall and back with decorations, wrong shades of tapestry and misplaced after-salad-secondary-dinner-forks or whatever the servants were in a fit about.
Claron raises her tear stained face up from Tabris� chest, �And here I am lying and trying to convince Katie as well as myself, that it was the strength of our love that keeps it from happening. Some friend I am, huh?�
�Our love helps it as well,� Tabris reaches to wipe tears from Claron�s cheeks. �Don�t forget that, ever.�
DracBlue looks at the door. Realizing that Kabal will keep her company, he walks away and heads outside.
�What can I do, Cara? To get you out of this room and out for a walk, or meal.� Kabal�s voice carries concern again, his expression limited, as he wonders what to do.
�I think I�ve got it, thanks.� Stryder looks over at Kyra with a caring nod as he braces himself with a hand on the wall and takes a few more steps.
Claron smiles weakly at Tabris, �I won�t. I just pray Kyra�s love for our son is strong enough.�
�I believe it will be, if our son can see it in her,� Tabris nods with some confidence at Claron. �Do you want to go for a walk or something?�
Stairs, Syne cursed to himself silently, he�d never cared much for stairs. In a galaxy of lifts, transports and elevators, stairs were an archaic means to torture tired feet with tier after tier of shaved stone. Sighing again, Syne looks down the hallway ahead of him.
Kyra steps away with a nod of her own and walks to the flap and peers out, wondering where Velyn went.
A group of lightly armored creatures, resembling Velyn in most aspects, save arched backs and brown coloring, are talking with the ivory wolf. One eyes Kyra, then stammers out a sentence, pounding his staff on the rocky beach with some assumed self-importance.
Cara: �Promise to�no matter what...not to harm or allow harm to come to Stryder by your hands or Va�if and when he should ever reappear?� Having learned through the week that Stryder and Kyra had disappeared and not been killed.
Eclipse rouses, sliding off the bed he moves to a window in Luna�s apartment. Noticing lights and figures moving behind the stained glass windows of the great hall he turns, �Luna, looks like the party�s almost started.�
Katie wanders back into her room, looking out the open doorway to the hall for a moment with a wistful expression, then settles herself into an overstuffed wing-back chair and tucks her feet under her.
DracBlue decides to stop halfway down the hallway and heads to his room. Stepping inside, he looks at the clothing on his bed, saying, �Damn, I hope someone will dance with me at the ball tonight.� He sighs as he puts on the bottom half of a tuxedo and a waistcoat.
A series of bells chime in the city temples, signaling the coming of evening as the twin suns start fighting each other for a position between the mountains they descend towards.
DracBlue heads back to Cara�s room and knocks on the door.
Claron wonders, �And just what may the �or something� be, my love?�
Katie takes the clip out of her hair, and begins brushing the long tresses with gentle slow strokes.
Summoning up a good deep breath, despite having no real lungs to store it in, Syne moves to the edge of the open door. Knocking on the frame he pauses before saying something, unsure of what to say.
Kabal looks over at the door, then to Cara with a nod. �I promise...getting the same from father will be difficult.�
Luna stretches as the bells intrude her dreams. She sits up and looks at Eclipse, sighing, �Looks like its time to get up and dress for the party.�
Claron catches sight of Syne at Katie�s door, �She�s liable not to answer, Syne�it�s open...tell her I sent you to retrieve the tray,� smiles.
Katie looks up mid-stroke, �Rogue,� she says softly, her eyes dull.
Syne nods, forming the words in his mind before opening his mouth, �Katie? May I come in?� Good...not great, but it would have to do.
Cara smiles at Kabal, �Thanks, dear brother�and as for Va�we�ll just have to figure something out,� moves over to the door and opens it.
Katie inclines her head, continuing her strokes, looking at the floor.
DracBlue looks at Cara and says, �The ball I told you I was going to go to is about to start. I thought I should let you know.�
Velyn says something to the others, apparently not in their favor, and they turn shuffling across the pebbles in frustrated haste.
Kyra watches a moment, then turns, nearly bumping into Stryder. �Sorry.� she says, catching herself from wrapping her arms around him. She moves around him and goes back to straightening up.
The soft notes of tuning instruments hums in the Grand Hall. As well dressed servants file into the room, several of the castle�s knights follow them in, looking less interested in the music and food then in talking with each other.
Cara stammers out, �Oh...yes...right...I forgot...okay...Go along, then��
Luna goes to turn the shower on, then strips as the water warms up. She steps in as she calls out to Eclipse, �Come on, babe, nap time�s over.�
Katie finally looks up. �What brings you to the moody side of the castle?� she asks quietly.
Syne raises a brow at Claron, then quietly steps into Katie�s room. Hopefully that was the right thing to do. Syne looks over at Katie, �I wanted to see how you were doing. I haven�t seen you outside. Granted, I�ve seen more posts and stones these past few days then friends.�
Cara then notices his attire and adds, �Oh and by the way, Drac...you look nice.�
DracBlue nods at Cara and says, �Thanks. Oh, and are you coming?� he asks hopefully.
Katie nods, pulling her hair up and twisting it, securing it with the clip.
Eclipse loses his clothing on way to the shower. Stepping under, he lets out a soft growl of approval, �Feels better than it used to...I begin to see the appeal of showers.�
Cara looks at Drac, then at Kabal, �I dunno��
Katie: �The reconstruction is going well, then?� Katie looks serene almost.
Stryder watches Kyra, �Any tidier and this place will start to sparkle, Kyra,� something was bothering her, or so he thought.
Luna giggles as she makes room for him to join her, �You only took them before for me?� as she runs her soapy paws over his chest.
DracBlue sighs and says, �I understand, if you do come, then I�ll see you there.� Then, he turns and walks down the hall.
Kyra stills, looking at the wall. �Um. You�re right,� she sits then, hands folded in her lap, leaning against the wall.
Pushing one of the leather flaps aside with his own quarterstaff, Velyn nods at Stryder. Speaking some unintelligible words again, apparently commenting on his improvements.
�I suppose,� Syne rubs his head fur. Stupid oaf you forgot to change. Shifting to his human form he glances at Katie again, �Claron said something about �collecting a tray� whatever that means.�
Katie looks sad for a moment. �Oh. Um, it�s out on the balcony,� she points. �So the whole place is gearing up for a party, from what I hear.�
�Looks like it, dancing or some such I�ve been told,� Syne says, eyeing the tray on the balcony. He wouldn�t bother with it, he was here for other reasons.
Clarice leaves from helping feed the animals in the stables as she hears the bells chime. Returning back to the castle, she heads toward her room to begin her own preparations for tonight�s victory dance.
Katie gets up and heads out to the balcony and retrieves the tray, laying it on the table in the room. �Sounds like a real gala event.� She sits on the edge of the bed.
Jakuzzi looks towards the castle gates, noting the arrival of the first luxurious chariot, �Looks like guests are coming for the party.� She looks at Shinta and Tewyn, �You Warriors must be going too!�
^Shinta: �Party? What party is that?�
Tewyn turns, �Well, I�m not much for parties, but Ms Pokey-Pokey would have my gray ass if I didn�t take her.�
�A celebration of our victory over the bad guys!� Jakuzzi says, her gaze sidetracked by a couple walking towards the castle. The lady wearing an extravagant red dress and the lord a matching dress tunic and pants.
Tewyn heads toward the castle, �You coming, monk?�
Clarice smiles as she goes and takes a violet covered dress out. She then makes her way down to Cara�s room and knocks gently.
^Shinta stands lost in thought for a moment, �Huh....Oh, you go ahead, think I�ll keep this brave dragon company.�
Cara rolls her eyes, �Now what?� as she opens the door and sees Clarice standing there.
�With the exception of when I had a body, yes,� Eclipse smiles at Luna, grabbing the washcloth with his tail and wiping in on her back. �Not much use for showers when your basically corporeal shadows.�
Valrash heads to his room and changes into his shiny new breastplate and a new three layered kilt.
Tewyn shakes his head, �Have it your way,� walks off mumbling. �If you don�t do something, then guess I will, monk.�
Kabal watches Cara answer the door yet again with a tilted gaze.
Katie looks at the closet. �Claron brought me a dress yesterday. I think she�s hoping I�ll still make an appearance.�
Shadow sighs as he finishes polishing his armor, he puts it back on and ties a ribbon to his right arm to signify the fallen.
Luna giggles and turns around to rinse the soap off, �You�re right, I guess water felt different on your scales, too.�
Clarice smiles as she sees Kabal there, �I thought it was high time you got out of this room. And from the looks of it, so does your brother,� hands Cara the violet ball gown. �I expect to see both of you there.� Smiles to herself as she turns and heads back to her own room.
Tewyn enters the castle and ask a few servants here and there about the whereabouts of the quiet non-eating Warrior of late.
Luna reaches out and grabs a towel, wrapping up in it as she steps out of the shower. �If I don�t get out now, we�ll be in there all night.�
Tabris leads Claron towards their room, �Well, there�s this small party and I just thought I�d ask the best looking gal in the galaxy if she wanted a dance or two.�
Clarice gathers her dress and heads into the bathroom to bathe.
Tewyn gets the information he was looking for and heads for her door and knocks, �Hey, froggy fryer, you in there?�
�That�d be a sight,� Syne glances to the closet, then turns, his attention drawn to the knock on the door. Stepping towards the windows in Katie�s room, he gives ample space for any guest.
Katie looks at the door. �What the hell? I must be the happenin� place to hang out. What can I do you for?� she sighs.
^Shinta watches the guest enter with Jakuzzi, �So, this is some big thing, huh?�
Claron smiles, then bats her lashes, �Why...I�d be honored, kind sir.�
Tewyn steps in and eyes Syne, �Hmm�well, I was thinking you needed a talking to...but seems I must be wrong.�
�First party they�ve ever had in the castle since I�ve been here,� Jakuzzi comments as she watches several more lords and ladies enter. �Oh, there�s my uncles!� She points towards Telepi and Marduc, who are clad in dress mail and walking along the stone path.
�Ahh, I see...So will you be attending�or does you duty come first?� asks ^Shinta.
Luna stands in front of the mirror and drags the brush thru her thick mane, attempting to tame the tangles. She watches Eclipse�s reflection behind her almost wishing they could just skip the party and stay there for the night.
Katie�s eyes crackle with what almost looks like amusement. �Go for it. There�s quite the line to lecture me, tonight.�
Tewyn shifts his gaze back to Katie, �Well, I was hoping alone...not something that needs to be said for all ears.�
�Official party door guard, only real lords and ladies shall be let in, no dark magicians in disguise!� Jaquzzi says playfully, boasting her station like it were ruling a kingdom. Telepi and Marduc chuckle as they near Jakuzzi and Shinta, �Evenin� Warrior, has our niece talked your head off yet?� Marduc asks Shinta.
^Shinta nods to the other two dragons, �She has been pleasant company�And if you don�t mind...I would take her station this night for her to go enjoy her victory. She has earned it.�
Clarice enjoys a nice relaxing bath, memories of a horse drawn carriage and fireworks float through her mind.
Katie looks at Tewyn, then at Syne. �Hmm. Perhaps, you�ll just have to blast me later, then.� She shrugs and looks down at her hands.
Syne looks to Katie, then over to Tewyn. If she wanted privacy, she had only to ask.
�Well, unlike the monk, I don�t hold my tongue...Maybe he should do less of the same,� Tewyn tells Katie.
Tabris opens the doors to their room and moves to the closet, �Where did I put that...ah!� He grabs a large silver bag and totes it over to the bed.
Katie glares. �Unlike the monk, you rarely show a shred of loyalty,� she hisses.
DracBlue enters the ballroom and stands to the side looking around.
Tewyn continues to speak him mind, �More than you know, kid...much more than you know...But your heading down that same road I walked...Would be a shame to see that monk hurt as much as I hurt Clarice�But what do I know?�
Claron smiles as she watches Tabris.
Eclipse slides out of the shower and turns it off. Grabbing a towel, he wipes up what water hadn�t already slid off his smooth hide. �At least I retained a few of my traits.�
Katie�s smile is laced with venom. �Really?� She asks sweetly. �You think I�m going to turn my back and let the one who loves me plunge to possible death?�
Claron reaches in the closet and takes out her own large covered bag, then heads straight into the bathroom, shutting the door behind her.
Tewyn turns his back to her, �No, that is what people who try and push away those who love them do...That wouldn�t be you at all.�
Tabris twirls out a blue top hat from the bag, and slides it on looking at Claron with a smirk, �So, what do you think?�
Katie snorts. �Yer a cool one to be talking about love aren�t you, Froggy? I should take lessons from you.�
Tabris blinks and mutters under his breath, �That was quick...hiding a man in that bag you don�t want me to know about, dear?� He chuckles looking at the bathroom door.
�Take it for what you will, girl...I know more of the monk than seems you do. And I know what I see�that fear you have of letting him in...Trust me, that won�t touch the pain of keeping him out...Ask Clarice,� says Tewyn.
Luna puts down her brush and turns to face him, �I love you, but I have to say this is my favorite of your forms.� She leans up and kisses him as she slides a paw down his back to play with his tail.
Syne shakes his head, he should have left, but he felt compelled to stay. Something in him needed to hear this, regardless of how he felt about it.
Katie stares him down. �You�ve said your mind. You can see yourself out.�
Tewyn heads for the door, �But then again, it�s only the monk you push out, right? Cause the L word from him is terrifying in more ways than one�Just keep walking that road, and you will be no better than me,� heads out solemnly.
Katie slumps back onto the bed. �Kiss my bonny pale ass, you twit,� she whispers.
Eclipse smirks, running a hand through the tendrils/hair on his head. Tucking a stray one behind his pointed ears, he looks in the mirror, �Well, a quick change in face of death turned out to be the right one, then.�
Tewyn stops before he is completely out the door, �Don�t end up like me, Katie...It�s a lonely road I�d wish to no one,� heads out of sight finally.
Jakuzzi shakes her head, �Your a Warrior. Shinta, you have to go, you helped defeat the bad guys!� She smiles up at him, then glances to her uncles. Telepi looks at Marduc, then to Shinta, �Have you no one to attend the dance with?�
Katie looks up at Syne. �Who the hell does he think he is?�
�I just think it�s my duty as a Warrior to give everyone some sense of joy...She has earned it for this night�She has a story that must be told...I will not mind standing post here this night,� ^Shinta replies.
Syne shrugs, �If I knew that, I would probably have had something witty to say.� Kicking an imaginary rock across the bedroom, he glances to the closet again. �Not a very useful dress if your going to leave in it in the closet, Kat.�
Katie blinks. �I�m not going,� she says stubbornly. She flops back onto the bed, glaring at the ceiling.
Valrash heads to the ball, walking in slow paces, not quite wanting to go.
Tewyn heads toward his room, �You picked a fine one monk, let me tell ya�and I thought Clarice had bad taste.�
�There are soldiers for such duties, Warrior,� Marduc says thoughtfully. �You should enjoy tonight�s revelries.� He extends his hand to Telepi who takes it, �We hope to see you inside.�
Shadow just leans back in his room and thinks to himself, �Do I have to go, or should I stay?�
Telepi and Marduc gives a casual salute to Jakuzzi, who seems all to eager to return it before they continue on to the castle interior.
^Shinta shakes his head, �To see Jakuzzi enjoy herself will bring me my joy�She has the makings of a fine Warrior...I request you fulfill my request...please.�
Claron chuckles as she hears Tabris through the bathroom door, �I�ll never tell,� she calls back as she removes her strapless gown from the bag. The strapless bodice is made of a blue-green iridescent silk. It looks as if it is crossed around the bust line and wrapped around the midriff to the waist, which ties in flat-like pleats, off center down the front. Royal blue silk, gathered at the waist, billows down to the floor. And the hem of the skirt is embroidered about an inch and a half with iridescent blue-green thread in a pattern of hearts and roses.
Luna moves to her closet and walks in, picking thru all the things hanging up, �What to wear, what to wear�� pulling various things out, then putting them back. Finally settles on a creamy white dress, made of a soft cottony material with silver threads woven thru it.
Tabris slides on the rest of his blue suit, adjusting his shirt and jacket in the mirror, �Not bad, Tab my boy, not bad,� he comments to his reflection.
�And why not?� Syne walks over to the bed looking at Katie, �It�s a big party and I�m fairly sure we�re the guests of honor.�
Clarice finishes with her bath, and dons her dress. Form fitting blue silk, backless and with a plunging neckline, the thin strapped sheath was overlaid with blue and silver threaded gossamer silk.
Eclipse watches Luna pick out a dress, then looks around for the dress armor he�d purchased earlier in the week.
Katie leans her head up, �Dancing? After everything that�s happened? Seems like it�s making a mockery of losing the bairns.� She chews her lower lip.
Luna finds a pair of silver slippers and slides them on. Then picks out a pair of silver earrings. She steps in front of the full length mirror and checks her appearance. �It still fits,� as she adjusts the neckline and fastening the belt of silver loops letting it ride low across her hips.
Tewyn looks at his clothes while entering his room, �Hmm, can�t be at a party all dirtied up.�
Eclipse slides on the decoratively etched armor pieces over the dress tunic underneath. Using his tail he secures the leggings as he snaps the flowing crimson cape to the chest plate. �Hmm...good, I sized it right. So, how does it look? The shopkeep said it was the latest fashion.�
�I know, but they�re alive and out there somewhere,� Syne sits on the edge of the bed looking out the window. �And sometimes we can use a pleasant distraction from our worries.�
Luna looks, picks up a cloth from the table and polishes the chest plate as she smiles, �You look like the most handsome Champion an Avatar could ever have.�
�What�s bothering you, Kyra? Is it what I did...or what I said?� Stryder questions, watching Velyn move about his hut doing some rearranging of things Kyra had tidied up.
Katie eyes Syne. �You, too? Gads, it�s a feckin conspiracy. Alright already. I�ll go to the bloody dance!� She sits up. �Shoo. You can�t watch me dress, Rogue.�
Cara stands, surprised by the dress Clarice handed her. �Guess I have no choice but to honor the promise you made to me, Kabal, and not to disappoint Clarice.� She heads off into her bathroom and changes into the strapless violet silk gown, which features a tight-fitting bodice. Gathered material from the waist billows out in layers. Parts of the skirt�s hem are pulled upwards, creating a loose sporadic scalloped effect throughout. She finishes off with a thin silver gossamer silk wrap, draping it loosely around her shoulders, where it slides becomingly down her arms.
Tewyn: �Hmm, wonder if they would say anything if I went in my birthday suit?� getting into the shower.
Kyra closes her eyes. �Nothing is wrong. I�m fine.� She blows out a breath, which causes her bangs to dance for a moment, before settling on her brow once more.
�It�s only a suggestion, Kat,� Syne stands and moves towards the door. �But it�d be nice to see you down there.� Slipping into the hallway, he sighs. Was that all right? Gods, if he was messing it up show him a sign, he cursed in his head.
Claron quietly opens the bathroom door and stands admiring her handsome husband quietly for a few minutes.
�If you�re sure�� Stryder watches her bangs move in her breath.
Katie crosses to the doorway and closes the door, grumbling. �I ain�t gonna stay long,� she mutters, then goes to the closet and pulls out the dress, hanging it on the hook near the bathroom and really seeing it for the first time.
Tabris blinks, looking at Claron, struck speechless for a moment, �My...I see you weren�t going to lose �prettiest woman in the galaxy� award tonight.�
A tear leaks out of Kyra�s closed lids, and her body trembles.
Clarice chuckles as she appears from behind the bathroom door that she hid behind when Tewyn entered. As he steps into the shower, �I wouldn�t mind it at all,� she chuckles.
Katie�s dress is a flowing confection of shimmering blue-green silk. A simple spaghetti strapped bodice, and full skirt gathered to show the emerald underskirt. The color catches the light and shimmers from blue to green depending on the angle.
�Well, I�m sure you wouldn�t, dear...but do we dare make a scene�and my clothing is all tattered and dirty,� says Tewyn.
Claron blushes, �And I see, that I will be escorted by the best looking man in the universe.�
�Well then, Avatar Luna, shall we make our appearances?� Eclipse extends his elbow for Luna, in a royal fashion.
Clarice laughs, �Wouldn�t be the first time we created a scene.�
�Well then, hero, guess I�ll stay to keep you company, since your uncles denied to let you go,� ^Shinta states.
�Oh yea, smooth as the silk you�re wearing,� Tabris rubs the rim of his top hat, giving her a sly grin.
Luna rests her paw on his arm and picks up her skirt with the other, �Yes, lets,� with a smile.
�Ah, I don�t mind. I�m sure there�ll be more parties,� Jakuzzi says with a childish grin still on her face, �Besides, I wouldn�t have anyone to go with.�
Claron smiles, �Smooth talker, too...I see.�
Katie stalks over to the mirror and pulls out the clip. She pulls her hair up, leaving ringlets cascading down her back and over her shoulder. The clip glows brilliantly. Sighing again, she walks over, pulls her clothes off and slides into the dress, the silky feel bringing a smile.
Tewyn replies, �That is true...but I did that once today�that should be enough.�
Clarice gives Tewyn a puzzled look, �What are you talking about?�
Katie smoothes down the skirts, and slips into the green slippers, then looks at her reflection with a frown. �I look like a little girl playing dress up.� She scowls.
�Oh�nothing, don�t worry about it.� Tewyn tells Clarice.
Syne looks down at himself, pacing in the hallway. Something fancy, but not too fancy, gods why did he pay so little attention to what people wore to dances instead of what the punch bowl held.
Katie adds a pair of sapphire drops to her ears, and a sapphire and emerald necklace. �Wonder where these came from. Don�t remember Claron bringing these.�
Clarice shrugs, �If you say so...oh, and I think Kabal and I may have convinced Cara that it would be good for her to join the festivities.�
Katie takes a deep breath before opening the door. �Here goes nothing,� she sulks.
�That�s good,� while Tewyn is stepping out of the shower.
�You stuck in that ornate tapestry, Sis?� Kabal questions to Cara�s bathroom door, wondering what is taking so long.
Katie sweeps into the hall, the skirts rustling. �Sleeping Beauty awakes.� She murmurs to herself. �And wonders why the fuck she bothers.�
Cara emerges quickly from the bathroom, �Damn it, I HATE dresses!�
Katie gasps. �I forgot the damned wrap,� she snaps her fingers, darting back in her room, and emerging with a sheer emerald wrap draped across her shoulders.
The door was opening. Quick change into something nice, you big oaf. Syne quickly shifts his clothing to a tux with a blue tie and belt, yes he�d seen many a human wear that. Catching a glimpse of Katie, he smiles, �Kat...you look enchanting, if such a word can be fitting enough.�
Katie grunts. �I look like an overdressed poodle.�
�Poodle?� Syne raises a brow before offering her his hand.
Katie: �Nevermind, Rogue. Let�s get this over with.� Katie puts her hand lightly in the crook of his elbow. �I look like I�m going to my debut debutante ball,� she grumbles.
Luna and Eclipse enter the Grand Hall from one of it�s many large double doors, now held open for party-goers to come and go. Inside the walls are decorated in an array of colorful silk ribbons. Selenia�s royal musicians claiming a corner of the hall for themselves, already in the middle of a waltz.
Katie looks sideways at him. �Enchanting, huh? Aren�t you the gallant Rogue tonight?�
Pairs of lords and ladies move about to the waltz, while others are gathered in a wide circle around the dancing section of the floor, talking amongst themselves about this or that. A large number pausing to watch the Avatar and the Warrior at her side enter.
DracBlue watches as Luna and Eclipse enter, �Well, there goes one of the happy couples. Now, where are the rest?� he mumbles to himself.
The high vaulted ceiling, enchanted by spells to look like a dazzling mix of stars and rainbow colored nebulae, hangs above. The occasional blue or purple comet shooting across the ceiling to disappear just short of Selenia�s throne at the head of the hall.
As Katie descends the stairs, her thoughts turn to Kyra. �She would love all this,� she whispers low. �I wish she was here.�
Luna squeezes Eclipse�s arm as she smiles up at him. �It looks fabulous.� She catches a whiff of cinnamon covering a somewhat familiar scent. Looking around for the source, but unable to find who it might have been.
Kyra opens her eyes, where tears shimmer. �I�ll be just fine,� her hoarse whisper seems to echo in the hut.
�I�m sure she would,� Syne says, having heard Katie whispering. �We�d all love to have her be here to enjoy this, Kat.�
Katie wipes her eyes as they enter the Hall. �Wow. Maybe I�m not so overdressed after all.� She gasps.
�Kyra�� Stryder shifts his gaze away from her, finding himself at a loss for what to say. Sighing heavily, mostly at himself for not knowing what to do, he pushes a flap outside and wanders over to a piece of drift wood. The pale sun disappears beyond distant hills, turning the sky a light peach.
Eclipse nods to Luna, then watches her, �Looking for someone?�
Luna�s eyes settle on the retreating back of a girl with shoulder length strawberry blonde curls. �I wonder who that is?� she asks Eclipse, pointing to the girl in the golden silk.
Kabal chuckles, �I think it looks nice, Cara.�
Kyra watches him go, and her shoulders slump. �He really loves her, Kyn. I know you aren�t here, but I wish you were. I hurt in places I didn�t know existed.�
�Don�t believe I know, I�m not up to date on who�s noble and who isn�t in this city,� Eclipse says honestly, watching the woman in gold.
Tabris lets out a gasp of excitement as he looks into the Grand Hall, �Now, this is some party.�
Luna shrugs subtly, �I believe the dance was open to all. She could be anyone.�
�I don�t see where it�s the least bit amusing, Kabal,� Cara says sliding her arm into the crook of his.
Kabal controls his chuckle with a quick nod, �Just never pictured you the frills and laces kind of girl.�
Kyra gets up and follows him. Standing behind him a bit, she watches the sun setting. �Not the kind of place I�m used to, but it�s still beautiful.� She says quietly.
�The dances back home never looked anything like this!� Claron says excitedly.
Katie sees Claron and gives her a half-smile and a shrug when their eyes meet.
~That it is...~ Stryder says mentally in response, seeming no to noticing he didn�t speak the words, �Come sit with me...please?�
Kyra sits beside him, her hand automatically starting for his, then she drops it into her lap. ~I didn�t mean to make it harder on you. I�m�I�m sorry.~
Cara elbows Kabal in the ribs, �Neither did I��
Tzaphiel moves thru the crowded hall, seemingly lost. As she passes by a cute young man, she brushes against his wings and mumbles, �Excuse me,� as she passes him. Her short skirt floats around her thighs softly as she moves on.
Stryder looks over at Kyra. Reaching a hand over to brush some hair from her face, �I just wish I knew what to do...when we go back, what do I say, if I really...killed her. I don�t think I can face them.�
DracBlue says, �It was my fault, no need to apologize.�
Tewyn gets dressed and heads out with Clarice.
DracBlue tucks his wings in further as to not get anymore people brushing against them.
Kabal rubs his chest where Cara elbowed him, �Hey...I was only kidding. You look good, really.�
Tzaphiel looks back and smiles as she walks away. The golden flecks dancing in her hazel eyes as she winks at him.
�Yeah, right�for an overstuffed plum,� Cara then laughs.
�So, where shall we start? A dance? Pleasant conversation with people I�ve never met?� Eclipse questions, trying to act like someone who�d been to such a celebration before.
Kyra stares into his eyes, her heart breaking. �You were not yourself. There were plenty of us defending you, willing to find out what happened, first. If she is dead�� her voice cracks. �Well, we will just have to deal with what comes. But I will not abandon you.�
DracBlue jaw drops at the sight of this nice young woman.
�I certainly have never been to a party this grand before,� Syne says glancing around the Grand Hall.
Katie sighs, �Queen Te� a friend used to throw this kinda bash every few years. But I was never able to attend. I just watched.�
Luna realizes she�s been staring at the stranger, and turns her attention back to Eclipse, �I think a dance to get things started.�
The music slows to a stop and a majority of the dancers applaud. Several couples leave their places on the dance floor to seek refreshment or idle chit-chat. Several other couples take to dancing instead.
Claron smiles back at Katie, �Would seem someone managed to get Katie out of her room finally,� whispers to Tabris.
DracBlue manages to take his eyes off the woman long enough to close his mouth, and then thinks to himself, �Damn, where did she come from?�
�Seems so, good for her,� Tabris nods to Claron giving a glance after Katie and her escort.
�Thanks anyway, Kabal,� Cara tells her brother as they near the Grand Hall.
Tzaphiel moves over to the serving area and takes a glass of wine, then moves further along to watch the dancing.
Some of the musicians change to different instruments as Eclipse takes Luna to the dance floor. With a beautiful harp solo, the music starts into a well paced waltz.
�Well, you get to attend this one,� Syne watches the dancers with interest. �I�m not sure where to start, it�s all a bit overwhelming.�
Katie shrugs. �The food court?�
Luna follows Eclipse across the floor, �I haven�t danced a waltz in more years than I can remember,� she smiles up at him.
�Kyra�� Stryder looks longingly into her eyes, giving her a quick kiss, he draws back and looks back to the horizon, �Thank you��
Kyra blinks, fresh tears welling. �For?�
Cara�s eyes grow large as she sees all the grand decorations, �It�s magnificent!�
�Well, I guess we can just follow what everyone else is doing, or do our own thing,� Eclipse smiles as he begins copying some of the paces of the other dancers in his head.
Katie�s eyes shift over the crowd, searching. When she doesn�t find what she�s looking for, she takes her hand off Syne�s arm and glides to an empty chair in the corner.
�Indeed,� Kabal�s expression changes to impressed as he follows Cara�s gaze around the room, �Afraid I�m a bit underdressed for this all.�
Luna follows his lead as they move around the floor with the other dancers. �You�re very graceful.�
�You look wonderful to me...and a lot more comfortable then I am,� as Cara squirms in the gown she is wearing.
Syne watches Katie go to a seat in the corner and sighs. He could guess what she looked for and it wasn�t here.
�Tail, helps with balance,� Eclipse smiles. �Without it I�d probably trip over myself.�
�So�where�s Va and Clarice?� as Cara looks around the crowded room.
Tabris leads Claron to the edge of the dance floor, watching the dancers, �So my dear, what is your pleasure for this evening?�
Luna giggles, �I know, I was afraid I�d have to learn to live without mine.�
Kabal chuckles, �Well, comfortable in my sense would be indecent exposure for you, Sis.� Glancing around the Grand Hall, he looks for Clarice and Tewyn, �Not sure, maybe they�re not here yet.�
Tzaphiel sees the black haired beauty take a seat close to her, moving away from her escort. Looking around quickly, she sees the doors to the garden open and moves in that direction.
Following Katie to the corner, Syne sits in a chair next to her.
DracBlue mutters to himself, �Too many people, I need to get outta here.� And heads towards the garden.
Katie eyes Syne. �You did your duty. You got me out here, and over-frilled to boot. You don�t have to baby-sit me now. Go enjoy yourself.�
�Being here,� Stryder says softly, as the sky darkens and stars begin to shine through the clouds that blow in a breeze somewhere high in the atmosphere.
Kyra gives a ghost of a smile. �Well, I was in your arms, I kinda had no choice.�
Tzaphiel steps out into the darkness, setting her wine glass down on the ledge as she steps into the night and seems to vanish.
�I can have a good time just sitting here all night,� Syne leans back in his chair, �I never was a good dancer, been told I could be, but I never agreed.�
�To�� Claron shakes her head. �To enjoy this evening with you...in spite of all that has happened, my love.�
�Don�t you find that odd...she did make a big deal about EXPECTING to see me here.� Cara says to Kabal.
DracBlue walks out to the garden. Noticing a wine glass, but nothing more, he looks around. Thinking he�s alone, he stretches his wings out and looks out to the night sky. He smiles.
Tabris nods, noting Claron�s head shaking. Sliding his top hat off, he slides it next to him on an empty setting on a table. Extending a hand to Claron, he bows. �May I have this dance?�
Luna searches the growing crowd as she circles the dance floor in Eclipse�s arms. �I see most all the Warriors have made an appearance, except for Shinta. I wonder where he is?�
�I�ll bet you could dance if you wanted to.� Katie shrugs. �But I�ll not force you. Still, there is more than one lady in need of a partner.�
Telepi and Marduc waltz close to Luna and Eclipse. �Good evening, Avatar and Sir Eclipse,� Marduc chimes in and Telepi watches the two, �Enjoying the dance?�
^Shinta spies Katie and Syne along the far wall. He excuses himself from Jakuzzi, �I�m sorry, I will not be good company after all.� Slipping through the doors, he makes his way toward the duo. Three quarters of the way there, he sees Katie lean toward Syne and whisper something. With a quick change of direction, he heads for a side door toward the gardens, nearly colliding with Tewyn and Clarice.
Claron curtsies as she takes Tabris� hand, �I�d be delighted, my lord.�
DracBlue walks over to the wine glass and looks down. Making sure no one�s around, he pulls out a emerald and starts carving a figurine of the pretty lady he saw earlier.
Tzaphiel floats high above the garden, barely moving her wings as she rides a gentle breeze. She seems to hover, staring at the full moon shining brightly.
Tewyn passes ^Shinta as he and Clarice enter, �Umm, isn�t that the wrong way, monk?�
�Nope, seen my share of the ball for this night�Was not what it was cracked up to be,� ^Shinta says walking past them both.
�Smashing,� Tabris says with a giggle as he scoops Claron up into the waltz.
Clarice points toward the dance, �The party�s in there.�
^Shinta keeps walking not turning back.
Tewyn shakes his head, �Sorry, monk...I tried.�
Katie catches sight of the bedraggled monk. �Oh, for the love of crap!�
Eclipse nods to Telepi and Marduc, �It is quite amazing, I must say,� his looks at Luna with an affectionate grin.
DracBlue sets the statue down. Letting the light from the moon reflect onto it, he looks up to see something up there. �What in the�There is someone else with wings around here?�
�For the love of what?� Syne raises a brow shooting Katie a confused look.
Cara glances over her shoulder, half expecting to see Drac standing there. �Feels odd not having my tag along around.�
Katie leans her head back against the wall. She opens one eye. �I think we�ve just caused a scene.� Rising to her feet, she crosses the dance floor, swearing to herself, her temper flaring with every step.
Tewyn looks to Clarice, �Do we have to go in?�
Luna nods and smiles at Marduc and Telepi, �It�s an amazing transformation from war council to dance floor�
DracBlue takes to the sky and flies over to the other winged person.
�A scene...I recall being told that lots of times. It�s not a compliment then?� Syne questions again, shrugging to himself.
�Would you prefer to make me out a liar to your daughter and son?� asks Clarice indignantly.
Katie looks over her shoulder, giving Syne a �Gimme a minute� gesture, then stalks her prey.
Tzaphiel is so distracted by the view of the moon that she doesn�t notice the company right away.
�Sure is.� Telepi says with a grin to Marduc. �Enjoy yourselves!� The two call out as they waltz away, back into the crowd of dancers.
DracBlue clears his throat in order to gain the woman�s attention.
�I didn�t tell you to make a promise to them,� looking back over his shoulder. �But I think I�d cause a different type of scene if I went in�less we stick to the shadows.� Tewyn grumbles, �Things were much easier when I just didn�t care I tell you.�
�Well, you have a different tag along. Though I should probably keep some distance, lest people think us a couple.� Kabal chuckles lightly.
Katie looks around outside, and doesn�t find her quarry. With an oath, she stomps back in and attacks a buffet table, stuffing her face in frustration. �Dammit all to hell.� She mumbles around a mouthful.
Tzaphiel is startled by the sudden sound and spins around with her fingers glowing. Seeing the man from the dance, she shakes her hands out. �You shouldn�t sneak up on people like that.�
Syne watches Katie move again, this time descending upon a buffet like a vulture ravaging fresh road kill. �Sure you want to be eating that fast, Kat?�
Katie glares at Syne, swallows and growls. �What the hell am I supposed to do?� she asks no one in particular.
Syne raises a brow looking around, �You asking me or that chocolate pastry tray?�
DracBlue looks at the woman and watches her hands glow. He says, �I�m sorry. I didn�t expect to see another person that could fly here.�
Katie licks her fingers. �The ghost of a friend,� she sighs.
�But I suppose you want to go in,� Tewyn replies.
Clarice looks into the Grand Hall longingly, �So, it�s either be a wall flower or leave. And frankly, I don�t find either options appealing�DO what you think best, Drow...it�s never stopped you before.� Pulls away from Tewyn and races out of the castle.
Tabris twirls Claron as the waltz slows to it�s end. The musicians changing some instruments again as they take a short break.
�Well guess that�s your choice...Maybe Daegriss should of killed me after all...This good guy thing seems to do nothing for me,� says Tewyn.
Kabal glances over his shoulder and curses, �Hells bells....I think I just saw Clarice storm out of here.�
Katie sees Clarice take flight. �Oh bloody hell. What a night.�
�Have fun, give the kids my best,� Tewyn says turning away from where Clarice had been standing. �Well, monk that makes two of us.�
Katie moves after her, thinking this has to end somewhere.
Tewyn follows in ^Shinta�s steps absently and way behind, �Tis easier to be hated hey, friend.�
�Running, chasing, cursing...this is beginning to be just like the last party I went to,� Syne mutters as he moves to follow Katie.
Valrash looks around the room thinking, �It looks like one of Mother�s parties.�
�Clarice!� Katie calls, moving down the steps. But she�s too far away. Turning, she spots Shinta in the shadows, where she hadn�t noticed him earlier. �Hm.�
Luna notices the commotion occurring as the waltz fades away, �Can�t they get thru one night without some drama?� she growls absently. �I didn�t even grab my sword on the way out.�
Katie smoothes down her skirts again, the gentle wind toying with her ringlets. Then she glowers at the shadows.
Tzaphiel looks at him for a moment, �I�m sorry, I�m not sure why I�m even here.� Turning, she flies towards the river beyond the garden.
�Something on your mind, to come follow me?� asks ^Shinta
DracBlue calls out, �Wait,� and flies after her.
�Well...mine is part of the ensemble, luckily,� Eclipse nods to Luna, noting Morthoseth hanging on his belt. ~Parties...dancing...I save your life and you torture me.~ The dark voice whines in his head with some irritation.
Katie moves forward, giving Syne a half smile. She steps in front of Shinta. �Oh, I�ve plenty of things on me mind, Shaman.�
�Like?� ^Shinta replies.
Tzaphiel lands softly on the bank of the river and sits down to watch the moons reflection play across the water.
Syne stops and watches Katie and Shinta. A few more shape shifters and an explosion...then it�d be just like the last party. Only with better weather.
�Since when do you send someone to do your dirty work?� Katie jerks her head at Tewyn.
Clarice slows down and walks through the garden, �Oh�what a fool you are, Penance. Great way to show any understanding,� she berates herself.
�Cara?� Kabal looks at her questioningly, �Should we go see what�s happening?�
^Shinta then says, �I�ve sent no one to you�Your the one who wanted me far way, remember? Though others, you allow really close.�
Tewyn continues past ^Shinta and Katie, �Sorry, monk,�
�It always comes down to this.� Katie sighs and fingers a ringlet.
^Shinta looks at Katie and the passing Tewyn confused, �Huh...why is he sorry?�
Cara: �Well, if I listen to Va�then no. Best to stay out of one�s love business.�
�Enjoying yourself, babe?� Tabris peers into Claron�s eyes, always enjoying the look of them, regardless of what expression they came with.
Katie looks at Tewyn�s retreating back. �He paid me a visit this evening. Told me what a backstabbing bitch I am.�
Luna glances down at Morthoseth, �Well, a sword doesn�t really go with my dress. But it seemed to make a statement the last time I had to settle a dispute.�
DracBlue lands across from the river. He looks at what she is looking at. Not wanting to disturb her, he pulls out another gem and carves a figurine of the lady across the river.
^Shinta stands his ground. �You know what, McKinnon, your right...IT DOES�You push and push me away non stop�But that fucking mutt over there, you open up to no matter what.�
Kabal nods, �I suppose so. Looks like another song is starting, can I offer my darling sister a dance for old time�s sake?�
�Well, I ask nothing of Tewyn. Maybe for once, he wanted to try and help someone for a change...but who am I to know anything according to you�right?� asks ^Shinta.
Claron smiles sweetly, �Surprisingly...I am....more than I thought I would,� her eyes sparkle.
Katie splutters. �You�re defending him!?!� she paces. �Of course you are.�
Cara smiles, �I would love that, Kabal,� as she accepts his hand.
DracBlue finishes the figurine and sets it down, �Can I at least talk with the angel that I see?�
�Good, because if you weren�t�I was going to spend the entire evening making sure you did,� Tabris leans in and kisses Claron.
Luna sighs, �Do you think they need an intervention? Or should I just let it go?� taking Eclipse�s hand.
^Shinta continues, �Yes, I defend those who show compassion, even those who seem to lack it many times�At least I could talk to him.�
Katie whirls on him. �Compassion? HIM? I�ve got more compassion on my worst PMS day than he will EVER have!�
Tewyn walks out the battered gates, glimpses of the battle flashing in his mind, �Could of just died, Sion.�
Tzaphiel sees a shadow in the rippling water and looks across the river at the figure. �You might as well join me,� she calls out to him.
Kabal takes light steps to the dance, clearly having not danced in his new form before. �Oh, er...excuse me,� he says after accidentally bumping another couple. Looking back at Cara, he shrugs. �I never said it�d be a good dance��
Claron feels herself melt in Tabris� arms and his breathtaking kiss.
^Shinta lowers his head, then looks at her for a moment again, �Like you knew, he regrets many things about his family. He doesn�t show his feelings, for that�s how he is...But you didn�t see him around his dying daughter, huh?�
�I think, perhaps, this is one time we should keep our noses out of it,� Eclipse says with a rather affirmative nod.
DracBlue flies across the river, lands, sits down and says, �I�m sorry, I haven�t seen too many females with wings. So I followed you.�
Katie curses. �Y�know, we�re either fighting about Froggy, or fighting about Syne. Do we ever just talk anymore?�
�Hard to talk, when your locked away, pushing me away...or just with him,� states ^Shinta.
Luna wrinkles her brow and motions Eclipse towards the bar, �If I can�t go break up the family feud, then I need a drink, my love.�
Eclipse nods and steers Luna and himself toward the refreshment tables.
^�I have two other people in my head if I want to carry on a conversation with myself,� Shinta tells Katie.
Katie closes her eyes. �You don�t know�� her shoulders slump.
�I know what I see�Been too many places and seen many, many things�� ^Shinta adds.
Tewyn sits on a slab of broken rock, �Foolish, drow�to think you could be like them and have a heart.�
Cara laughs, �Doesn�t matter...you are still the best brother in the world.�
Tzaphiel studies him for a moment, then sighs and slowly the wings seem to melt away as she pushes her mass of curls away from her face. �I�m Tzaphiel Labyrs.�
�A troubled look again, we do not meet in good favors, Warrior.� A familiar voice sounds near Clarice, a soft white fire playing in the air nearby.
Katie stands there, her mouth trembling.
�But to you, I�m wrong, so I will just continue to be wrong...doesn�t matter to you, right?...I�m just a shell,� ^Shinta declares.
Kabal nods, �And a good sister makes any skill-less dancing enjoyable.�
DracBlue says, �My name is DracBlue,� he pauses after he sees her wings melt away. �So, your like one of the companions I�m with. He could do that, too. Well, it�s a pleasure.�
Katie gasping. �A�a shell?� She takes an uncertain step back.
Luna takes a glass of something sweet and moves towards a table close to Selenia�s throne. She sits and sips her refreshment waiting for the fireworks to go off.
�It�s all I have ever been, right?� asks ^Shinta. �Not man, just a shell for Kyo...Worthless, except for his gifts.�
Eclipse stands next to Luna�s chair, raising his glass towards Selenia, who smiles softly and bows her head in acknowledgement.
Katie feels faint. �I�ve never said�you can�t�we�.� she closes her mouth and looks miserable.
^Shinta turns, �Actions speak volumes, Emerald Eyes, absolute volumes.��
Luna smiles and bows her head to her misstress. Reaching her hand back to pull Eclipse closer, �I hope she doesn�t notice the fighting going on amongst her Warriors tonight.�
�If she hasn�t already, I�m sure she will. Perhaps, she simply wants it to play itself out,� Eclipse shrugs and pulls over a chair in order to sit next to Luna.
�There is one like me with you? Interesting...DracBlue, what kind of name is that?� Tzaphiel asks quietly.
�But you do like to see my back more than anything else, huh?� ^Shinta states.
Katie looks at her feet. �Kyo was�� she blinks. �Oh, how in the worlds can I explain.�
DracBlue says, �It�s a heritage thing. My line is called Drac and my real name, I suppose, would be Blue�for I was born as a smaller creature with blue fur.�
�You don�t have to�You think I don�t know�After hearing him, day in day out, being worried that you would be ok�not leaving till he thought you were. Maybe I should just take his place and bring him back�then maybe you would be happy,� expresses ^Shinta.
Katie nods. �It�s been hard on me since he left. I�m still trying to find my place in things. And to figure out what should be.�
Luna glances at the door, then leans into Eclipse�s side and purrumbles, �You know, it�s gonna drive me crazy not knowing what is going on out there.�
Eclipse glances at the door as well, �We�ll find out eventually, no doubt.�
^Shinta tells Katie, �Well, it�s not only been hard on you...Real easy to see the woman you have said maybe too much to� to run to another and open up to them freely like you don�t exist...But what should I expect�only being a shell.�
Clarice turns as she hears the voice, �It�s you, again. I�m afraid I seem to find myself confused and acting hastily.�
Tzaphiel stares at DracBlue curiously, �You were a Quickling? What happened? I�ve never seen one like you.�
�Events did not go as you expected?� The white flame settles into Turian�s hand as he leans against a large willow tree. �They rarely do...I have been on both sides of the equation over the ages, and still cannot predict what love shall do.�
Shinta pulls up the neck of his robe back up onto his shoulder, hiding his now exposed tattoo, �Go enjoy your dance...You didn�t have a very good one last time,� starts to move away.
DracBlue says, �I was touched by white magic, which changes us to a different form. This one is the only other form we have. Someone healed me, so I changed. And I�m a Lightling, now.�
Katie�s eyes snap up. �I never said it hadn�t been hard on you as well, Shinta. I asked for time to sort things out. I�m still sorting. It�s difficult to feel the level you feel. For the last few years, I�ve been oblivious to your existence. You can�t expect things to pick up where they left off before my death,� she says haughtily.
Clarice replies to Turian, �No, things didn�t go as I expected...as well for some others, I am sorry to say.�
Katie turns to Syne. �I hear that chocolate tray calling.�
Tzaphiel tries to follow his story, but seems lost. �Someone healed you and it caused you to change form?� She looks at the moon for a moment, then says, �I sometimes wonder what my true form is.�
^Shinta looks back, �Yea, you�re right, because I�m not Kyo�they shouldn�t have to pick up where they were�So still the shell I remain.�
Katie holds her head high and marches back into the Hall, chest heaving, trying to keep her tears at bay.
DracBlue nods and says, �Our people were made by dark magic�s, so light magic�s have an adverse affect on us. And as to your true form, I would say whatever you feel best as.� He sighs, not understanding her plight.
Luna sees Katie reenter the grand hall and nudges Eclipse, �That doesn�t look good.�
Syne looks at Katie as she leaves. Sighing, he glances back towards Shinta. Shaking his head, he turns to follow Katie. There, the explosion...history best not repeat itself.
^Shinta watches, then turns away. �Always him, isn�t it, McKinnon...Maybe I am just a shell after all.�
Eclipse shakes his head, �No, it doesn�t��
DracBlue stands up and brushes off his tux pants and says, �Care to go back for a dance?�
Katie picks up a pastry, then slumps. �Every time I�m at a party�� she whispers. �Last time I got kidnapped. Wonder what the next one will be like.�
Tzaphiel looks up at him and holds her hand out, �Sure, why not?�
DracBlue takes her hand, kisses it and helps her up.
Turian nods, �Fate weaves us together and splits us apart without a second glance. But our actions shape the threads, so Warrior, how will you shape yours?� Letting the white flame dart about with a life of it�s own, he watches Clarice studiously.
�Well�� Syne plops into a chair near Katie and glances at her, �Parties don�t seem to work out well for us, do they?�
Katie nods morosely.
�Those any good?� Syne motions to the pastry in Katie�s hand.
Katie hands him the pastry. �No, they never do. At least I got a dance or two in the last couple times.�
Tzaphiel shivers as DracBlue�s lips brush her hand. �Let�s go before the band packs it in.�
DracBlue looks at Tzaphiel, �Shall I fly you there, or do you want to walk?�
Clarice shakes her head slightly, �Food for thought�� as she ponders on the question.
�There�s still time for one more,� setting the pastry aside, Syne extends a hand to Katie as he stands.
Katie looks at him askance. �You said you didn�t dance.� She raises an eyebrow.
Luna sets her glass down on the table as the musicians change instruments again for the next set. �I think I�m ready for another dance, my love,� smiling at Eclipse.
�I think I�ll manage,� Syne smiles lightly, a faintly familiar smile for Katie.
�As am I,� Eclipse helps Luna from her seat and over towards the dance floor.
Tzaphiel acts like she�s thinking about it, then wraps her arms around DracBlue�s shoulder, �I�ll take the free ride.�
DracBlue lifts Tzaphiel up, and flies up and over to the castle garden.
Clarice shakes her head as she turns away from Turin. Swallowing her pride, she heads back towards the castle.
DracBlue lands in the castle garden and puts Tzaphiel down.
�Godspeed, Warrior,� Turian bows his head, speaking to the air as he watches Clarice leave. Turning, he disappears in a blaze of white flames.
Katie looks up at him. �Sure. I�m already being accused of crawling all over you anyhow. Lead on, Colone�where did THAT come from? You don�t even look like him�.� she places her hand in his with a sigh.
Tzaphiel�s skirt seems to be a bit longer now as she moves with DracBlue toward the dance. �Maybe you can point out that friend of yours while we�re dancing?�
Dracblue says, �Sure,� and looks around for Syne.
Katie thinks of Anthony Shayne and shakes her head. �Can you imagine? He thinks there�s something going on with us. How�weird.�
Syne turns and leads Katie onto the dance floor, a small smirk playing on the edge of his lip. His eyes scan the crowd for a good spot for the two of them, catching sight of the woman with Drac. Speaking of shifters. Tza, it�d been a long time, he wondered when she�d show up again. �This looks as good a spot as any. I guess, I�m the lead?�
^Shinta stops and looks at his arm, �Maybe its better if the rest of it was gone, too,� keeps walking with his head lowered.
DracBlue spots Syne and tries to point him out to Tzaphiel.
Luna rests her head on Eclipse�s chest as he holds her, moving her around the floor.
Katie nods. �It works, I guess.� She closes her eyes and wonders how the evening could have possibly gone much worse.
Tzaphiel follows Drac�s motion toward the shifter as she steps onto the dance floor with him.
DracBlue offers to lead.
Tzaphiel raises a brow, smiles at him and whispers, �Let�s just go with the flow.�
DracBlue smiles and whispers back, �Sure.�
�How can I make this right?� Katie wonders to herself. �When everything always turns out so wrong?�
The music starts into a stretch suitable for dancing of any speed as couples in the floor drift to give each other space.
Luna purrs happily in Eclipse�s warm embrace, �I love you.�
Syne keeps a normal tempo with the music, looking at Katie as he leads her in a waltz.
�But you sure as hell dance like him.� Katie muses aloud to herself.
Tabris enjoys a slow dance with Claron, folding his arms around her and swaying with the music.
Luna glances up at Selenia as she passes the throne, receiving an encouraging nod from her mistress.
Stryder wraps an arm around Kyra as he gazes up at the pale moons overhead, �It�s a rough road ahead of us...but with your strength, I believe, I can face it.�
Tzaphiel is careful to avoid dancing too close to Syne and she smiles at Drac, �This is nice.�
Kyra startles, but relaxes instinctively. She lays her head on his shoulder, still thinking it�s hopeless. �I promised never to abandon you. I meant it.�
Katie closes her eyes and hears, �That dress is amazing. It should be standard issue,� and frowns.
�Amazing legs, indeed.� Katie snorts.
Outside the wall sized windows on either side of the Grand Hall, streaks of light shoot up from the gardens, as a magical fireworks display shoots off in the sky. Blazing shapes and colors, streamers and ribbons, and an ornate firework spell of a silver and purple dragon snaking around each other as they drift carefree around the other fireworks going off around their sparkling forms.
A victory celebration, but not a celebration for all. A night filled with splendor, hate, love, joy and sorrow. One chapter has ended, another begins as the Warrior forge ahead into the unknown future that awaits them.