Vin_Da_DM: Previously on Warriors of Destiny: Reaching the mining outpost the Warriors traveled through the abandon tunnels hoping to reach the summit in time for the ambush, in order to prevent the enemy from getting the sacred ore. Having to deal with a cave in and bestial resident of the mines they eventually reached their goal.
Vin_Da_DM: Coordinating the ambush with Lord Weston�s troop via a flare they attacked the black hooded man and his small army of wolfen beasts. During the battle the man revealed himself to be Bhaal, half-brother to Valrash and the elder son of the Knight Mileor.
Vin_Da_DM: The battle was difficult and in the end Bhaal escaped with a boulder-sized amount of Angel�s ore, an ore that once processed is nigh indestructible. Recovering from their injuries and losses the Warriors and company continued their journey to Aventine.
Vin_Da_DM: *Time passed: A few hours*
Vin_Da_DM: The long road through the grassy plains let you reach the silvery gates of Aventine. The city guard appears to have doubled in size, with groups of soldiers on nearly ever street corner. The three horse convoy makes it way through the crowded streets, refugees from outlying county�s camping in Aventine�s marble plazas and back alleys.
Vin_Da_DM: Just outside the castle gates is what seems to be a small army, a majority of whom turn to look at you as you approach. Those in your way move quickly to the sides giving you a straight path towards the gate. Marduc stands by the gate talking with Cranoc, whose large grey body is taking up a majority of the rampart he is perched on.
Vin_Da_DM: As your group approaches Marduc and Cranoc both turn their attention to you, Marduc plods forward with a light grin on his face, �Welcome back, Warriors.� He notices the others, �And company.�
Vin_Da_DM: $ Start
Valrash wakes up and looks around.
Shadow smiles, �Well, at least I�m not as useless as I thought I would be anymore.�
DracBlue continues walking silently next to Cara�s horse.
Luna_Faline nods to the dragons at the gate, �Thank you, Marduc, it�s good to be home. I need to see my Misstress right away.�
Vin_Da_DM: Marduc blinks and looks between Lunas, �Y-yes m�lady?�
Valrash asks Cara politely to put him down.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne points at Luna in his body, �Long story, buddy.�
Claron: Although Claron is still in Cara�s body she smiles at Marduc, �Thanks, its good to be back.�
Katie just nods quietly, while Kyra looks awestruck.
DracBlue gawks, �Its almost as shiney as our temples. Almost.�
Luna_Faline steps forward a little towards Marduc. �We�ve had some trouble recently.�
Cara pulls back on the reins, �Whoa...Hope you can get down on your own,� as the horse they are on stops.
Vin_Da_DM: Marduc raises a brow then glances over at Cranoc who gives him a nod of reassurance. Marduc nods to Luna, �So it would seem.� He motions the guards to open the gates.
Valrash gets down and says, �Later I wish to talk with you, Cara,� and walks forward.
Tabris stretches and looks around, �Sure are a lot of soldiers��
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse looks at Luna, �It�s good to be back.�
Luna_Faline leads the way thru the gate, looks over at Eclipse. �Yes�it is, and it will be even better when Selenia sets things to rights.�
Cara gets a puzzled look on Claron�s face as she whispers to herself, �Wonder what the hell he wants?�
DracBlue says, �He is the son of one of the Dark Council and he just fought with his brother.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder follows the group through the open castle gates, giving a glance to Kyra as he walks.
Cara shakes her head, �You think I didn�t hear Bhaal say who he was when we were on the mountain?� giving Drac an �I ain�t daft� look.
Vin_Da_DM: Lord Weston breaks off from your party to have a conversation with some of the soldiers. Ahead the marble path leads the castle, flanked by the flowering gardens. The two-headed scorpion is still tending to the grounds, giving a short clicking at your group as he crosses the walkway to tend to a row of shrubs.
Clarice begins to slip sideways on the horse.
DracBlue says, �With the way your body has been acting�I wouldn�t be surprised. Oh, and I�ll be right with ya. I need to go find berry muffins for you.� Drac sprints off to find a bread stand.
Shadow pushes her up back onto the saddle.
Cara growls as Drac sprints off.
Tabris: �Great, where�s he going with my body this time?� Tabris grumbles as he watches Drac run off.
Luna_Faline reaches up and lays a paw on Clarice�s thigh, hoping Eclipse�s body will last a few more minutes.
Vin_Da_DM: Jakuzzi, still wearing the oversized armor, pushes her helmet back and looks at your group as you approach the main doors.
Cara chuckles, �To get berry muffins for me. Only I don�t really want them now.�
DracBlue finishes getting to the stand and creates an obsidian ring, offers it in trade.
Tabris sighs, �Remind me to slap him once he�s no longer in my body.�
Vin_Da_DM: The bread stand owner gives the ring a look over then eyes Drac, with a nod she hands over a small basket.
Arwyn remains quiet, observing and listening to the others.
Cara laughs, �Will be my pleasure to remind you of that.�
DracBlue starts running back to the group.
Luna_Faline moves forward to Jakuzzi. �I see your still at the task I gave you when last I was here.� Smiles at her.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne walks over to Katie, �You doing alright?�
Kyra looks around in amazement, giving Stryder a small trembling smile.
Katie sighs and rubs her forehead with her palm.
DracBlue catches up with the group and hands Cara the basket. �As promised.�
Vin_Da_DM: Jakuzzi salutes and in doing so causes her helmet to sink down over her eyes. Pushing it back again she grins, �Yessir! No evil bad guys will get through this door!� Shaking her spear she giggles, then looks at Luna and the others, �Going inside?�
Katie gives Syne a smile. �Yeah. I�m fine.�
Cara takes the basket of muffins even though she no longer feels hungry for them. �Thanks,� she mutters.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse shakes his head as he watches Jakuzzi, �As high spirited as ever.�
DracBlue helps Cara down from the horse.
Vin_Da_DM: A soldier dashes up from the castle gates and stops next to Jakuzzi, saluting the soldier turns to Luna. �I�ll take your horses, m�lady.�
Luna_Faline looks back at the group, �We need to get Clarice in to Selenia quickly,� looking at Tabris, �Can you carry her?� motioning to Clarice.
Cara: �I suppose, I should thank you for helping me get down off the horse��
DracBlue smiles, �You don�t have to.�
Tabris: �Not a problem.� Tabris reaches over and pulls Clarice off the horse carefully, holding her gently in his arms.
Cara: �Good��cause I wasn�t going to,� eyes twinkling with laughter.
DracBlue just holds his smile trying not to laugh.
Vin_Da_DM: Jakuzzi, from her perspective, notices Eclipse, �Wounded Warrior!� Turning quickly her armor clanks noisily as she bangs on the door in a timed sequence, which opens the massive double doors moments later.
Arwyn and Sabir dismount from their steed.
Kyra nibbles her lip nervously, darting glances around.
Luna_Faline leads the way thru the open doors into the grand entrance. Pauses for only a moment, then heads into the throne room looking for Selenia.
Vin_Da_DM: Sabir nods and hands the reins to the soldier. The soldier gathers the other horses and leads them to the castle stables just inside the gate.
Valrash pauses, not wanting to step foot on holy ground, but then keeps walking.
Vin_Da_DM: The large throne room is vacant save one of Selenia�s bodyguards, a large seven-foot tall white tiger lying on the steps in front of the throne. Lifting it�s head it looks over at Luna.
Arwyn follows Luna into the grand entrance.
Luna_Faline calls out to the tiger, �I need our Mistress quickly, where is she?�
Vin_Da_DM: The tiger gets to it�s feet, then disappears through the gossamer curtains draped behind the throne. A few moments later it returns, followed by another tiger, then Selenia.
Shadow falls to his knees and drops his head.
Kyra gasps and takes a step back uncertainly.
Valrash just watches.
Claron and Tabris move through the open doors into the grand entrance.
Luna_Faline runs to her. �Mistress, we need your help, please.�
Katie starts to drop a curtsey, then realizes the body she�s in and drops a respectful bow instead, yanking Kyra into one as well.
Cara hesitates before following the others.
DracBlue stops with Cara, but then continues on with her.
Luna_Faline motions back towards Eclipse and Clarice, �We had a problem with some magic and our souls got switched,� begs her, �Eclipse�s body is dying. Please fix them before we lose him.�
Arwyn lowers her head as she sees Selenia.
Vin_Da_DM: The two tigers take positions to either side of Selenia. Selenia nods to Luna with understanding, �Of course.� Selenia holds her hands towards your group and begins to radiate an angelic white glow.
Cara stands back gazing at Selenia and thinks to herself that the Goddess Selenia is almost as beautiful as her mother was.
Vin_Da_DM: The glow surrounds everyone who had been switched. Each of those effected begins to feel weightless, a warm feeling flows over your souls. Floating across the room you settle back where you belong, a whole-body tingling signaling your return to original bodies.
Katie lets out a whoop, hugging herself, �Hot Damn! I�m back!�
DracBlue sets Eclipse down, then takes the name plate and eats it, being famished. �Damn you, Tab, the chest pain means hunger.�
Luna_Faline takes off running to where Eclipse is lying and falls to her knees next to him, �Eclipse?�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne blinks and looks at the paws as he watches them transform back into fingers, �Never felt better!�
Katie dances up, grinning, and gives Syne a loud smacking kiss on the cheek, before barreling into Kyra and hugging her senseless.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse is breathing heavily. Closing his eyes, a dark glow with shadowy tendrils surrounds him in a thin layer. After several moments it sinks back into the skin and Eclipse opens his eyes, they blaze blue as he looks at Luna and smiles.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne blinks, then looks over at Katie, then grins to himself.
Claron glances over at Tabris just as she begins to feel weightless and the warm feeling overtakes the body she is in. Her eyes grow large when she realizes she is now back in her own body. She places a hand instinctively on her stomach, a smile crosses her lips, �Oh, thanks for the berry muffins, � smiles at Drac. Then races over to Tabris, hugging him and kissing him deeply. �Oh, how I have missed these arms and lips.�
DracBlue frowns, �They were for Cara��
Tabris: �Don�t think I�m quite back yet, I need another,� Tabris grins and returns the kiss to Claron.
Clarice sighs deeply, �Is he alright?�
Luna_Faline breathes a deep sigh of relief and hugs Eclipse. �Thank the Goddess,� looking over at Clarice.
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia smiles softly as she steps back and sits in her throne.
Luna_Faline looks around at everyone else. �Ok, now that we�re all back to ourselves, take inventory. Anyone hurt where they don�t normally hurt?�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne slides Luna�s necklace off and holds it out towards her with the sai hilt, �Just because you rented the space, doesn�t mean you can leave stuff.�
DracBlue figures its safe to leave Cara�s side at the moment and sits down. Grabs his chest and says, �I need to be purified.�
Katie drops into a deep curtsey. �Our thanks, as always,� she smiles at Selenia with a heavy heart.
Cara smiles as she watches Claron and Tabris together.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder shrugs, �Feels fine to me.�
Luna_Faline smiles at Syne and takes my things from him, �Thanks.�
Claron has a twinkle in her eyes, �He feels mighty fine to me.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse gets to his feet, �Give it a few days and I�ll be 100 percent again.�
Kyra steps up to Stryder and hugs him tight. �You�ve never felt better to me.�
Cara: �I feel great! Don�t feel the least bit nauseated either.�
Tabris: �Not to shabby yourself, dear,� Tabris winks at Claron.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder smiles at Kyra and enjoys the hug, �Good to be back.�
Luna_Faline stands up with Eclipse and nods, �I hope so,� then turns and approaches Selenia. �Mistress, they have some of the Angel ore. If they can refine it, we may never beat them.�
Vin_Da_DM: Sabir studies himself with a nod, then looks over Arwyn giving her a bow of his head, �M�lady.�
Clarice: �Thank you, Goddess. I was so afraid that my being in Eclipse�s body would be the end of him.�
Valrash says, �That may be partially my fault. I couldn�t kill my brother.�
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia nods quietly, �It will take them some time to refine it. I will inform the Council of this and they will organize it�s return. Luna, you and your companions must be tired.�
Luna_Faline takes a seat on the steps at Selenia�s feet. �Yes, Mistress, we are.� Purrs softer, �I�m glad to be home, I�ve missed you.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse eyes Clarice for a second, then looks over at Selenia and Luna.
Arwyn smiles at Sabir, �Do not worry, I am fine. Never thought we would come to know one another�s body that way,� a hint of merriment in her voice.
Luna_Faline looks back at Clarice and Eclipse and whispurrs, �I was so afraid I would lose them both.�
Vin_Da_DM: Reaching down Selenia touches Luna�s cheek with her warm and loving touch, �And we are glad you have returned.� Selenia looks up at the others, �Warriors and fellow adventurers, feel free to rest and relax.�
Katie nods with a frown.
Claron notices Katie�s frown.
Luna_Faline rubs my cheek against Selenia�s hand fondly purring.
DracBlue stands up. �Nevermind, its just hunger pains. Dangnabit, Tab! You didn�t
eat near enough.�
Clarice: �We lost Tewyn and Shinta somewhere, too.�
Cara: �Then go eat till your heart�s content. None of us will mind...really.�
Tabris looks at Claron suggestively, �Rest and relax, eh? Oh, I have some ideas��
DracBlue says, �Well then, I�ll eat separately from you all then. I�ve seen how you look at me for eating at times, and I think its a little rude,� he shrugs.
Claron giggles, �As do I��
Katie fiddles with the hem of her tunic.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder rubs his head as he looks at Kyra, �How about a walk? It�s a big city.�
Kyra nestles her head onto Stryder�s chest, �Sounds like a great idea.�
DracBlue wanders off to the armory.
Claron overhears Stryder, �Wait just a second, young man. There is something your mother would ask of you first.�
DracBlue asks a guard where the armory is.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder goes red for a moment then looks over at Claron, �Yea?�
Luna_Faline remembers the sai and necklace in her paws. �There is something else,� holding out her paw to show Selenia the items. �I seem to have a hard time taking care of the sai.�
Claron smiles, �I need a hug from you, too.�
Shadow chuckles, �You blew it up good.�
Katie: �I think a walk sounds like just the thing.� Katie says in a small voice, turning and walking away.
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia picks the sai up gently and looks it over, �Do not worry, sweet Luna, this is not the first lifetime you have had these troubles.� Selenia smiles with the faintest hint of humor. �Perhaps something sturdier is in order.�
Kyra laughs and releases Stryder.
Shadow still staring at the floor, waits and chuckles at Selenia�s comment.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder smiles, �Of course, Mom.� Stryder hugs Claron like he is making up for the lost years.
Luna_Faline nods and smiles, �Purrhaps, I need something stronger.� Looks at the key �Do you want this back?�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne notices Katie leave, then jogs to catch up with her, �Yo�Kat, wait up!�
Katie turns, �Yes?�
Claron returns the hug and places a kiss on his cheek, then whispers, �After you enjoy your walk with Kyra, there is something your Father and I would like to tell you. Now...go and enjoy the time with Kyra.�
Vin_Da_DM: �It has been a long time since I have seen it,� Selenia looks at Luna, �You may keep it if you like.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder looks questioningly at Claron, �Something?�
Tabris looks over at Stryder, �Enjoy your walk, Son, we can get to that subject later.�
Claron nods her head, �Yes, your father is right...go enjoy your walk.�
Kyra frowns and raises an eyebrow at Stryder.
Vin_Da_DM: �It�s a big place, don�t want to have to go looking for you later. If you�re right there, you�re easier to find.� Syne smirks at Katie.
Luna_Faline smiles brighter and slips the necklace back on. �Thank you, Mistress.� Stands up and bows, �Do you need me to do anything?�
Katie stops and looks at him questioningly. �Looking for me?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Relax, the tasks of tomorrow are just that. Enjoy today or it will be gone before you notice,� Selenia smiles softly at Luna, then shifts her gaze to Eclipse.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse bows as he notices Selenia looking at him.
Arwyn looks at Sabir, �Find out where our quarters will be, then I would like to take a walk and see more of this kingdom.�
Katie: �It�s nice to have my body back.� Katie murmurs, resuming her pace.
Luna_Faline looks over at Eclipse, then back to Selenia, �Yes, Mistress,� then runs down the steps to Eclipse smiling.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne nods following beside her and mutters under his breath, �Sure is��
Katie: With a giggle Katie shoves Syne�s arm playfully. �Aww c�mon. You didn�t like being a feline?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Talked about everything you needed to?� Eclipse gazes at Luna, his pleasure at being in his own body showing in his eyes.
Vin_Da_DM: �The thought of hacking up hairballs the rest of my years wasn�t that appealing, no.� Syne chuckles a bit.
Clarice moves over towards Cara. �Looks like its just you and me again. What would you like to do?�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder cups Kyra�s arm in his, �So what do you think we should go see first?�
Valrash walks out the room and walks over to Cara and Clarice. �May I have that chat with you now, Cara?�
Katie�s eyes dance. �Well, at least now when I look at someone, I know I�m really looking at them. It was a bit unnerving to hear people talking in phrases that were not their own.�
Vin_Da_DM: Sabir nods and walks off to question one of the guards in the main hallway.
Luna_Faline nods, �For now, tomorrow will come soon enough,� grabbing his hand and squeezing it tightly.
Kyra�s eyes sparkle with pleasure. �I�d kinda like to see some of the fountains I�ve heard about.�
Cara looks at Valrash, then back at Clarice. �I suppose I should see what it is he would like to discuss with me.� Turning back to look at Valrash, �Do you prefer we speak alone, or would you mind if Clarice stayed?�
Vin_Da_DM: �A meal then? I remember a nice peaceful place overlooking the waterfall gardens in the arboretum.� Eclipse smiles at Luna.
Valrash says, �Alone, for I don�t know if you wish her to hear what I have to say.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder exits the castle with Kyra beside him, �Not sure where those are, but exploring is fun as well.�
Luna_Faline is so happy she almost bounces, �Ooohh, that�s purrfect,� smiling broadly.
Cara: �Fine...alone then...If you will excuse us, Clarice��
Vin_Da_DM: "I know, not to mention the confusion of it all.� Syne chuckles, �So, how was life as a man?�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse takes Luna�s hand gently and leads her out of the throne room.
Clarice gives both Valrash and Cara a puzzled look, �I will catch up with you later then, Cara."�
DracBlue walks out of the armory, wanders around trying to find something to do, and then remembers the dragon outside. He pulls out a gem and starts carving it into the small dragon�s shape.
Luna_Faline walks with Eclipse out into the courtyard and inhales deeply, smelling the scents of the flowers in the breeze. �I miss the gardens the most when I�m gone.�
Clarice walks out of the throne room, through the grand entrance and back outside.
Katie: �Not so hot. I prefer to be as I am, even if what I am is slightly dysfunctional.� Katie sighs wistfully.
Cara clasps her hands together behind her back, �Now...what is it you think I need to hear?�
Valrash drags Cara out of the throne room. Waits, making sure Clarice is out of earshot, �Now�do you plan on following your word to our masters, or do you wish to incur their wrath?� He smiles as he says it so low as to not alert others.
Vin_Da_DM: �Aren�t we all?� Syne comments as he continues walking with Katie.
Katie: �Nah.� Katie says softly, �Some of us are blessed to know who they are and what they want out of life.�
Kyra: �I�m happy going anywhere with you.� Kyra whispers softly, her shining eyes looking up at Stryder, full of emotion.
Vin_Da_DM: �Not sure I have the second one yet,� Syne shrugs, �So, i guess I�m slightly-slightly dysfunctional then.�
Cara growls, �I DON�T like being half demon manhandled anymore than being demon handled! And as for your question�I will do what I have to do when I am damn well good and ready!�
Katie shakes her head, �You don�t know what you want?� she asks curiously. �And here I thought you had it all figured out. Guess I have to take you off that pedestal, now.� The corners of her mouth turn up ever so slightly.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder leads Kyra down a path in the castle gardens, smelling the air he smiles, �That tree reminds me of your scented wind trick.�
DracBlue wanders into the same room as Cara and Valrash. Seeing Cara in distress he asks, �So�are you ready for that walk now?�
Kyra laughs, �Well, at least my party trick is good for something.�
Kyra: �This garden is lovely.� Kyra sighs. �The perfect setting for a moonlit dance.�
Cara nods her head, secretly glad that Drac has interrupted them, �Yes, I am more than ready for that wall,� moving quickly away from Valrash.
Luna_Faline walks slowly along the path leading toward the waterfalls with Eclipse. �It�s more beautiful every time I return.�
DracBlue puts his hand in front of himself and says, �Well then, shall we.�
Vin_Da_DM: �I never liked pedestals, things fall off them and break,� Syne smiles at Katie, �I�d rather be on the ground with you.�
Valrash looks at DracBlue and says, �You interrupt way too much�One of these days you will be a roasted bird.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Oh I bet, wonder if they have any royal balls, being a castle and all,� Stryder says as they continue walking through the garden.
Katie swallows hard, her eyes widening. She chews her lip for a moment, then nods. �I�d rather you be here, too.� She continues walking quietly.
Cara: �Yes, we shall�� glancing back at Valrash. �Shall I assume you deliberately let your half brother kick your ass?�
Valrash frowns, �No, he beat me fair and square. He�s always been better than me. I will change that soon.�
Vin_Da_DM: �I agree, especially when it�s with you.� Eclipse says to Luna as he points to the large balcony, with several tables, jutting out over the cliff opposite the waterfalls and it�s attached building. �That�s the place. We should get the table nearest the edge, it�s a beautiful view.�
Tabris looks at Claron, then sets his hand on her stomach, �You doing okay, Babe?�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne gazes up at the sky, �Looks like it�s going to be a nice night.�
DracBlue says, �I�ve always wanted to watch a sunset, but could never stay still long enough to do so. Would you care to do so with me, Cara?� he smiles at her ignoring Valrash.
Katie nods. �The sunsets here have always been so gorgeous.�
Claron�s eyes sparkle, �I am doing much better...now that I am back in my own body. How do you think Stryder is going to react to the news of having a little baby brother or sister?�
Luna_Faline leans her head against Eclipse�s arm as she looks at the balcony. �We can watch the suns set from there as well.�
Kyra: �I�d so love to attend one if they did.� Kyra says quietly.
Vin_Da_DM: �Probably about the same way I felt when you first told me,� Tabris says as he brushes some hair out of Claron�s face.
Vin_Da_DM: �I�d definitely need some new clothes,� Stryder looks at his well-traveled outfit.
Cara: �I�d love to watch the sunsets with you, Drac�So, we will have to finish this later, Valrash.�
Valrash leaves and wanders about the city.
Kyra smiles to herself. �I�ve got the perfect dress.�
Shadow heads out and wanders around the city.
DracBlue says, �Well, now that he�s gone�we�ll go our separate ways�unless you actually meant you would watch the sunsets with me?�
Claron: �Surprised and shocked...then.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse moves with Luna to the caf�s balcony. Wandering over to an empty table near the end of the balcony he smiles, �Good, nobody�s there,� pulling a chair out for Luna he waits for her to sit.
Tabris: �That about sums it up,� Tabris nods then glances around. �So, everyone�s off enjoying themselves. What does momma-to-be-again, want to do?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Well, at least one of us would be prepared then,� Stryder chuckles, then moves over towards a gazebo draped in flowering vines.
Cara: �I wouldn�t mind watching the sunsets...besides�I wouldn�t want Valrash to think I don�t keep my word if he was to run into me alone��
Kyra: �Not really.� Kyra sighs. �I left it on the ship. So it would do me no good. So I guess I�d have to do some shopping, as well.�
Luna_Faline takes the seat Eclipse offers and watches the waterfalls for a brief moment. Looks back at Eclipse, �The water is almost as blue as your eyes, but not nearly as kind or warm.�
DracBlue says, �Well then, we�ll just have to find an amazing place for the sunset. I�m thinking the top of the tallest building would do.�
Claron glances down at the ripped hem of her black hooded dress. �I think�its time I ditch the mourning clothes...don�t you?�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse smiles as he takes a seat next to Luna, �And the suns not nearly as beautiful and soothing as yours.�
Tabris: �I think so, but as long as you keep the black you wear under them,� Tabris winks at Claron.
Clarice finds herself sitting by one of the fountains, lost in her own thoughts.
Luna_Faline blushes, leans over and kisses Eclipse softly.
Vin_Da_DM: Sabir walks slightly out of step with Arwyn, remaining silent as he typically does.
Arwyn wanders along the city admiring all the fragrant gardens. �This is quite a lovely place, don�t you think, Sabir?�
DracBlue keeps walking with Cara. �I still haven�t thanked you for not making fun of me when I first joined this group.� He sighs.
Katie hums a little song softly, her eyes darting to look at their surroundings as they pass.
Claron giggles. �And here I was thinking about trying undergarments that were red and lacey, but if you prefer the black underneath...I�d be most happy to oblige.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Nice song, what is it?� Syne questions as he listens to Katie.
Tabris: �I�m happy with whatever you want to wear underneath, even if it�s nothing at all.� Tabris says with a grin.
Katie startles a bit. �Um. Something early twenty-first century that me Da found a holo-cube of when I was a wee one.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Oh? So it�s a good memory then.� Syne grins slightly, �Haven�t told me about your da�, Kat.�
Claron laughs, �That�s good...I do believe you remember that I tossed my bra and panties out on the balcony of the honeymoon suite.�
Vin_Da_DM: A thin woman in silk weaves her way to Eclipse and Luna�s table. Depositing gold embroidered menus she weaves back towards the building.
Tabris: �Yes, I�m sure the entire city enjoyed seeing them,� Tabris chuckles, �So, going clothes shopping then?�
Katie: �Yeah. A very good memory. Me Mam sang it to me at night when I was troubled. But suddenly the words make more sense than they did back then.� Katie shakes her head. �Me Da was a big bear of a man with a ready smile and broad shoulders. Doted on me brother and I. But I was his special angel, he told me.�
Cara: �No need to thank me, Drac. I did have more than one reason for not making fun of you. I was not a very welcomed member of the Warriors and I saw you as a way to achieve the goal of getting away from them.�
Luna_Faline picks up a menu and browses thru it, �So much to choose, I have no clue what I want.�
DracBlue looks hurt, but says, �Just like now when you were talking there.� Then he gets a blank expression on his face .
Vin_Da_DM: �Sounds like you had a good family.� Syne nods giving a moment as thought crosses his face, �It�s been ages since I�ve even seen mine. Even then, not exactly parents in a humanoid sense.�
Claron: �Yes, clothes first�then food, or food and alone time together,� smirks.
Vin_Da_DM: Sabir nods silently, �Looks to be a nice evening, m�lady.�
Tabris: �Hmm�� Tabris rubs his chin, �Decisions, decisions. Why must you make this so difficult on me?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Whatever you want, Luna,� Eclipse smiles at her as he browses the menu himself.
Arwyn: �Indeed it is.�
Luna_Faline thinks to herself, �What I want is not on this menu�.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder looks at Kyra after the long silence, looking around the garden his gaze returns to hers, �So...must have been strange watching everyone playing musical chairs with our bodies.�
Claron leans over and kisses Tabris, then whispers in his ear, �Shall I help you make up our minds as to the order?�
Luna_Faline purrs, �If I remember correctly, the roasted pheasant is very tasty,� laying my menu down on the table lightly, resting a paw on Eclipse�s thigh.
Kyra: �It was awful, if you must know. I felt so alone because talking to you felt like I was talking to Katie, and trying to talk to what looked like you would mean I WAS talking to Katie.� Kyra sighs.
Tabris: �Of course, you know how indecisive I can be,� Tabris smirks playfully at Claron.
Vin_Da_DM: �Well, I can tell you wasn�t easy knowing that I looked like Katie.� Stryder leans against the wall of the gazebo, �And now that it�s fixed, I�m at a loss��
Cara hangs her head down, �I�m sorry. I�m not noted as one of the most trustworthy of individuals...but honestly...I was very happy you interrupted Valrash and I.�
Kyra steps up and laces her fingers through Stryder�s, leaning up to brush a soft kiss across his mouth. �At a loss for what, exactly?� Then she kisses him again.
DracBlue says, �Well, I hope that I can keep interrupting in the good way.� He smiles at Cara and stops to look at the sunsets, noticing that they�re in a garden.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse smiles then gives a short nod, �Sounds good, and how about to drink? I recall a good vintage wine.�
Vin_Da_DM: A smile plays across Stryder�s lips after Kyra�s kisses, �Certainly not for that.�
Luna_Faline purrsighs, �That would be nice with it.�
Cara: �You seem somewhat different since...since the time with Daegriss. Or maybe its just...me.�
Kyra lays her head on his chest. �What then?� comes her muffled question.
DracBlue says, �Well�if you spent time with someone as evil as them as a soul, you might change, too.�
Vin_Da_DM: The slender waitress weaves back to the table. Eclipse looks at her, �We�ll both have the pheasant, and a bottle of the 39� Aventine Red.� The waitress nods with a friendly smile and disappears back into the building after taking the menus.
Katie stares at the ground as she walks, lost in thought.
Vin_Da_DM: �Not sure�� Stryder sighs, �It�s like I�m missing or forgetting something...but I can�t remember what.�
Cara nods her head slowly, thinking to herself, �You got that right�.
DracBlue sighs, �I only hope its for the better. Wow, that�s beautiful,� as he looks sidelong at Cara and the sunsets.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne looks at Katie, wondering if his question was what had captured her attention. Remaining silent he walks alongside he.
Kyra looks up at him, her expression serious. ��'m sure it�ll come back to you. You�ve only been yourself again for a short time.�
Luna_Faline turns in my chair to look at Eclipse, �Do you have any idea how scared I was?� staring into his bright blue eyes, �I can�t imagine how I would go on with out you.�
Cara looks up at the sunsets, her heart aching, wishing she could share the sunsets with Stryder.
Vin_Da_DM: �I�d like to think so, but with all I have going on in my head, who knows.� Stryder rests a hand on Kyra�s shoulder.
Katie: �I had the world�s best parents.� Katie says softly. �There was always a lot of love in our home. The forever kind. I guess I�m pretty spoiled in that regard.�
Kyra: �I�m sure of it. The more you worry, the longer it will take to come back.� Kyra traces a finger across Stryder�s chest idly.
Vin_Da_DM: �Not spoiled, some might consider you lucky,� Syne says as he watches a group of people walk past them.
Katie: �Very lucky.� Katie nods.
Vin_Da_DM: �I have some idea,� Eclipse extends a hand caressing Luna�s cheek gently, �It would not be easy without you either.�
DracBlue asks, �What�s wrong? I haven�t seen you sad all that often.� He looks at her with concern.
Claron wraps her arm around Tabris� waist. �If we take much longer deciding�the shops closing will make our choice for us.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne chuckles shortly, �I seem to know more about parental love from talking with people than from experience.� Shrugging it off he looks around, �We going anywhere in particular or just going?�
Katie: �I was just wandering, really.� Katie blinks at the ground. �But if there�s somewhere you�d like to go�.�
Tabris: �No time to waste then,� Tabris rings his arm around Claron�s, �This may be the only time I�ll say this, �Let�s go shopping�.�
Cara shakes her head briefly, �Just wishing things had gone differently in my life...that�s all.�
Claron chuckles, �You�re the best thing that ever happened in my life.�
DracBlue says, �Well, there is always time to change things. So just try and you�ll get where you want to.� He smiles at her.
Vin_Da_DM: �Don�t know enough about this place to know where I�d go.� Syne shrugs a bit, �So we can just keep walking.�
Katie nods and falls silent, her fingers fiddling with her bracelet.
Luna_Faline leans into Eclipse�s hand, rubbing my cheek against it. �I pray we never find out, either of us.�
Cara closes her eyes briefly, a shudder runs through her body, �I think I heard that the first time.�
Tabris: �Flattery will only get me shopping this once,� Tabris winks at Claron.
DracBlue asks, �And that means?� He looks confused.
Claron: �Guess I�ll just have to try a different tactic next time,� winks back at Tabris.
Vin_Da_DM: �Me, too.� Eclipse gazes into Luna�s eyes, breaking away as two wine glasses and an ornate bottle of wine are set down on the table. Eclipse gives a nod to the waitress before she disappears again.
Kyra walks over and sits on a bench, looking out over the sunset. �Breathtaking,� she whispers.
Cara: �Oh...nothing. I must just be tired��
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder sits next to Kyra on the bench, looking at the sunset, his expression changing momentarily as he watches the colors blaze across the sky.
Kyra: �Wonder what it is your parents want to talk to you about.� Kyra murmurs, still looking at the horizon.
DracBlue says, �I seem to be getting tired, too. Seems not being in my own body made me need to eat too much and now I�m sleepy from it. Well�anyway, I suppose we should both turn in. it was a nice sunset,� he smirks.
Vin_Da_DM: �Not sure...sounded important,� Stryder wraps his arm around Kyra�s shoulder trying to be nonchalant about it.
Katie sighs, closing her eyes for a moment.
Luna_Faline sits up and reaches for the wine bottle, pours it slowly into the two glasses then hands one to Eclipse with a smile.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne studies Katie for a moment, unsure of what to say if anything.
Kyra leans into his embrace, laying her head on his shoulder. �Very much so.�
Tabris raises a brow as he looks at the rows of clothing from the window outside a shop, �This place looks like it�ll be open for a while. Look good to you?�
Cara smiles as she hears a familiar voice in her head. ~All you have to do is say the word, and I�ll make it happen.~ Mentally says back only for the one that spoke to her to hear.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse swirls his glass, extending his glass he returns Luna�s smile, �A toast. To a romantic evening with the Avatar of my dreams.�
Katie opens her eyes. They are shimmering brilliantly. �Maybe I should buy some new clothes. These are a bit worn after our battle with wolves. I�m tired of wearing blood.�
Claron: �It�s perfect,� opening the door to the shop and entering it.
Vin_Da_DM: �Sounds like a good idea, those look like they�re liable to fall off if we have another battle." Syne says as he looks around, "Not sure where the stores are, not even sure were we are.�
Luna_Faline extends my glass to Eclipse, �And to the Shadow Walker of my heart,� touching his glass lightly.
DracBlue gives a quick kiss to Cara�s cheek and walks off hurriedly to the inn.
Katie chokes on a giggle. �Can�t have �em falling off in the middle of battle. Though it could prove to be a good distractionary tactic,� her eyes twinkle merrily. �If I remember correctly, the shops are ahead a bit.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne chuckles, �Distracting to both sides.� He nods as she talks about the shops, �I�d say I could use some myself, if I actually wore them. Maybe I�ll find something good to imitate though.�
Katie: �There�s a thought.� Katie grins.
Vin_Da_DM: Taking a sip of the wine Eclipse closes his eyes and purses his lips, �Ahh, very nice.�
Vin_Da_DM: �So I wonder what tomorrow has in store for us?� Stryder says as he wraps his other arm around Kyra.
Kyra turns a bit, wrapping an arm across Stryder�s stomach and snuggling closer to him. �Mmm, I�m so content I could stay like this forever,� comes her muffled comment as she turns her face into his chest.
Luna_Faline takes a sip of wine and watches the last rays of light from the setting suns make rainbows in the mist from the waterfall. �This is nice,� nestling close to Eclipse.
Tabris picks up something off the shelf and looks at it, �This is clothing...must not be for a human. It�s got a few more holes than normal.�
Kyra raises her head for a moment. �No more wolves, I hope.� Then she lays it back down again.
Vin_Da_DM: �Indeed,� Eclipse says as he watches the mist, then shifting his gaze to the plates of pheasant as they are set on the table by the waitress who bows and leaves yet again.
Claron looks through the clothes, picking out several different outfits. One is similar to the blue long coated slack outfit, only a deeper blue. The other is more a sleeveless vest like one with leggings. As she makes her way to the back of the shop she finds a long strapless royal blue empire dress. �Ohh, I have to try this on. Its been so long since I have gotten a party dress,� smiles at Tabris.
Tabris: �Go ahead, dear. I�m sure you�ll look great in it.� Tabris grins as he watches her with the dress.
Katie squeals excitedly as she sees a shop ahead. �Oooooh. That one has some great outfits!�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne looks around the wide street then over to the shop Katie is looking at, �Oh?�
Luna_Faline�s stomach suddenly growls rather loudly, �Oh my, I didn�t realize how hungry I was,� laughing as she sets down the wine glass and picks up a fork.
Katie: �MmmHmm. I can get some more tunics and leggings. And maybe something a lil softer�� Katie trails off.
Claron makes her way to the dressing room to try on the clothing, modeling the first two for Tabris.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse chuckles softly, �I�d say, a bit louder and I�d think one of those wolves was about.�
Tabris nods as he looks at Claron in her outfits, �Blue has always been a good color on you. I�ve always been good in black.�
Luna_Faline takes a bite of the pheasant and purrumbles as the meat melts in my mouth �Hmmmmmmmm, that�s not funny.�
Claron decides she will definitely take the two outfits when Tabris tells her how good she looks in blue.
Vin_Da_DM: Taking a bite with his fork Eclipse smiles, �It�s very good.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Phew...do you people really wear all these colors. It�s like a rainbow in here,� Syne says as he looks across racks of clothes at Katie.
Katie laughs. �Well, we are peacocks at heart.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne chuckles, �Sounds funny even though I don�t know what that is.�
DracBlue stops in a clothing shop, gets another black robe to replace his and gets a backpack. At the last minute, he picks up another replacement black robe, and then trades a carving of the shop owner for the items.
Tabris lifts up a long black casual jacket and some slacks and sizes them against himself, �Hmm...I was never any good at this sizing thing.�
Katie: �Big colorful bird that struts around like it�s hot shit.� Katie says absently, pulling out a few tunics in different shades and looking them over.
Vin_Da_DM: �Ahh, I�ve known a few people like that,� Syne shakes his head looking at something the same color red as his eyes, �Interesting.�
Claron tries the dress on, loves how it looks on her and decides she will surprise Tabris with it on a special day in their life. Coming back out of the dressing room in her black hooded dress she sees Tabris looking at a black casual jacket and slacks, �Need help there, my love?�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse looks across the table at Luna as the candle on the table lights itself, �Enjoying your pheasant, Luna?�
Luna_Faline nods and grins, �Sorry, yes I am.� Reaching for the wine glass, �I always seem to come home starving.�
Tabris: �I guess, last thing I bought myself clothing wise was a set of power armor. And those are generally one size fits all,� Tabris shrugs and chuckles a bit, �Swords and fighting easy, clothing not so much.�
Cara stands quietly still stunned by the kiss on her cheek from Drac, �I sure hope he doesn�t think just because I have been nice to him, that�� shudders� �Definitely not my type,� says out loud even though no one is around to hear.
Vin_Da_DM: �I suppose there are worse ways to come home,� Eclipse smiles as he sips his wine again.
Katie moves over and looks at the leggings. �Yeah, me too.�
Claron smiles as she pulls the correct size jacket and pants off the rack, �Try these.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder looks down at Kyra, �Enjoying the sunset? You haven�t said a word for a while.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Going to get those?� Syne points at the clothes Katie has.
Kyra smiles, listening to the steady thump of Stryder�s heartbeat. �Yeah. I�m just happy. I missed being able to hold you.�
Katie nods. �And a few other items.� She wanders over to another section, with her back turned to him so he can�t see what she picks up.
Luna_Faline shivers slightly, �I�ve done that too,� draining the rest of her glass.
Claron browses through the shop�s selection of shoes, buying strappy heels to go with the dress, and a new pair of thigh high boots to go with the sleeveless vest outfit.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse nods, �I�m sorry, I didn�t mean to bring up bad memories.�
DracBlue finishes the figurine and hands it to the shopkeeper and asks, �Will that do for compensation?�
Luna_Faline leans in and kisses him on the cheek, �It�s alright, at least I have a few memories. A lot of my past lives are a complete mystery to me.�
Katie tucks the other articles under her tunics and leggings in her arms, then wanders over and finds a shimmery sapphire sheath dress. �Oh, wow.� She sighs. �Even has a matching wrap. That�s gorgeous.�
Tabris nods at the mirror looking at the jacket and pants, �Not bad...think I�ll take �em.� Changing again he folds them and leaves the changing room looking for Claron.
Vin_Da_DM: "Maybe we�ll find out about those some time,� Eclipse says as he takes another sip of his wine after the kiss.
Claron picks up a few more accessories before Tabris comes out of the dressing room, �Well...did they fit?�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne peers over the racks at Katie, �Finding anything nice?�
Tabris: �Sure did, knew I married you for a reason.� Tabris winks at Claron then looks at her selections, �Buying up the whole store, eh?�
Katie: �A few things.� Katie eyes the dress again, then walks away.
Claron giggles, �Sure looks like I am,� her arms loaded down with all the items.
Luna_Faline shakes my head, �Some things are better off left alone, aren�t they?�
Vin_Da_DM: A somewhat slender humanoid walks up to the fountain Clarice is sitting at, kneeling down he sets a floating candle with a white-fire flame on the water. Shifting his gaze to Clarice he speaks softly, �The suns set and the night approaches, yet you seem distracted Warrior. What troubles you?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Perhaps, but knowing one�s past helps you know yourself better,� Eclipse shrugs lightly, �But it�s your past to do with what you wish.�
Clarice glances up when she hears someone speak to her, �My always seemingly disappearing Drow,� not fully understanding why she would tell someone she has never met before what is troubling her.
Katie finds a hair clip that makes her gasp. Shimmering shells and jewels wink at her from it. She picks it up and runs her fingers over it. �I had a dream about a clip just like this�� she whispers to herself. The shells glow with an inner fire that only something born of Aventine could, and she turns it over and over in her hands.
Tabris: �Better find you some bags before i have more clothing than wife,� Tabris chuckles and goes to find the shopkeeper to get a bag.
Vin_Da_DM: �I�m sure he has his reasons. Perhaps it is something you should ask him?� The man watches the candle as it drifts across the fountain.
Luna_Faline�s gaze follows a pair of fireflies as they flight around the balcony. �I think I need to pay more attention to my present. The past will always be there, it can wait for a better time to delve into those lost lives.�
Claron smiles radiantly. �Now, if we could find some fresh strawberries and some whipped cream...I think we could take care of food and time alone together.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse nods, �And I�ll be there for you when you choose to delve.�
Tabris raises a brow then smirks, "Yes, I believe that would.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Looks nice, you going to get it?� Syne watches her fiddle with the hair clip.
Clarice: �I would if he ever stayed around long enough for me to ask, just seems what time we do have together there is always someone or something that needs dealt with first. I guess I am just feeling sorry for myself.�
Valrash continues to wander the town not looking for anything in particular.
Shadow stops at an tavern and gets some ale.
DracBlue heads out and to the inn, asks for a room and where the bath is.
Katie continues to stare at the clip. �I don't know if I should.� She shakes her head.
Luna_Faline looks back at Eclipse, �I�m sure you can help me find those memories when I�m ready. But right now I think there are better things to do with our time,� teasing him softly.
Vin_Da_DM: �Well, I could get it, but I think it�d look better on you than me,� Syne says to Katie with a smirk.
Vin_Da_DM: �Live for today, for yesterday is gone and tomorrow is yet to be.� Pleasure and content spreads across Eclipse�s face as he looks across the table at Luna.
Vin_Da_DM: �Perhaps then you need to make the time, unasked questions will get you no answers.� The man shifts his gaze from the candle up the sky as the stars begin to peer through the clouds.
Luna_Faline nods and smiles, �Do you want to see the dessert menu?�
Katie nods, but lays the clip down and looks at some others on display.
Vin_Da_DM: �Why not,� Eclipse grins as he motions for the waitress.
Luna_Faline pours more wine into our glasses and looks out at the waterfalls again with a feeling of warmth and belonging flowing thru her.
Vin_Da_DM: Nodding to the waitress Eclipse looks over the gilded dessert menu, �Almost as big a variety as the menu.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne browses some himself, giving strange looks at outfits.
Tabris slides his jacket and slacks into a bag, then looks over at Claron, �About done, Babe? Looks like it�s getting darker outside.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder gives a longing sigh as the suns disappear below the horizon, �We should probably head inside soon, before it gets too dark.�
Katie snatches the clip up, along with several more. �I think it�s time to get going.� She says, noting the darkening sky outside. �We need to get back to the castle before it�s too dark to see.�
Luna_Faline glances at the menu, �I don�t really want anything else,� as I lay it down, �But you can go ahead and get something.�
Kyra nods, but snuggles closer still. �I know.� She sighs wistfully.
Vin_Da_DM: �Can�t get that dark, I�m sure they�ve got torches or something.� Syne says as he glances over Katie�s collection of stuff.
Cara finds herself nearing the fountain having walked aimless around after Drac ran off. As she gets closer to the fountain she sees Clarice and smiles. She approaches closer and suddenly senses someone familiar, yet not in a way she has ever really known.
Vin_Da_DM: Outside on the wide streets hanging lanterns are being lit along the curb.
DracBlue decides not to go to bed yet and wanders the streets, not finding himself as tired as he thought.
Claron: �Completely done...for now. And eagerly awaiting to finish two and three on our agenda.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Enjoy the eve, ladies.� The man gives a short bow, then leaves Cara and Clarice at the fountain as he heads off towards the castle.
Cara watches the man leave and wonders who he was. �Who was that, Clarice?�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse sets the menu down and looks at Luna, �I believe I already have what I want.� Standing he motions towards the waitress, a few moments later music starts up. Eclipse does a flourishing bow then extends a hand, �May I have this dance?�
Clarice looks over to Cara, �I didn�t hear or see you approach. I don�t know who it was, but when he spoke there was a softness to his voice...one that made you feel most comfortable and at ease.�
Tabris: �Why don�t you let me handle those,� Tabris helps Claron get her things into bags, then kisses her.
Luna_Faline bows my head, �Most certainly,� as I stand and slip off my jacket. I place my paw in his hand and let him lead me.
Kyra rises slowly, stretching.
Katie pays the shopkeeper, and wanders out in the street with her hands full of bags.
Claron�s heart feels like it skips a beat as she feels the warmth of Tabris� lips, �I�m finding it increasingly harder not to pull you back into the dressing room with me,� says in a soft sensual voice.
Tabris: �I�d rather be in the privacy of our own room. I�m sure they�d wonder about giggles and moans from the dressing room>� Tabris smirks at Claron, �So we'� best hurry to the castle.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder looks at Kyra, �Guess we should go find our rooms, castle this big that may take a while.�
Claron laughs, �OH, what happened to that sense of adventure you used to enjoy so much?�
Kyra wiggles her eyebrows, �And if we can�t find ours, we�ll steal someone else�s.� She giggles.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder chuckles, �Sounds like a plan...as long as they�re not in it when we do.�
Kyra: �Well, you kick them out of the one you find, and I�ll do the same.� Kyra nods.
Clarice wraps an arm around Cara, �We should grab a bite to eat and head back to the castle. I know I could use a nice long bath after all we have been through.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Hey Kat, wait up!� Syne follows after Katie, discreetly tucking a small box he got from the store into his side and patting it gently.
Vin_Da_DM: As the night descends on Aventine, the stars seem to dance in the heavens as they pass between holes in the clouds. Just being in the city, though still bustling at this late hour, seems to have a calming effect, making one forget whatever the dawn will bring.
Vin_Da_DM: Elsewhere: Bhaal stands in front of the boulder of ore and looks across the room at the flame-ringed throne. �Well done, Bhaal, we shall begin immediately. With the armor this rock with make our champion will be able to breach Selenia�s little city and bring me what I want. The Warriors heads on a platter.� Daegriss laughs manically as a large behemoth hoists the stone up and carries it off.
Vin_Da_DM: $ End