Vin_Da_DM: Previously on Warriors of Destiny: Reaching Aventine the Warriors and company quickly headed for Selenia�s castle. Once there the goddess used her divine powers to counteract Cara�s spell that caused some of them to switch bodies.
Vin_Da_DM: Finding themselves back in their original bodies the Warriors were given time to rest and relax. As the night descended on Aventine each of the Warriors were finding their own means of relaxation, some with romance, some with shopping and others passing the time lost in thought.
Vin_Da_DM: *Time passed: Several hours*
Vin_Da_DM: The dawn light of the twin suns peaks over the horizon. Morning bustle begins to sound out from the city, but in the many rooms of the castle peace and solitude clings to the air in a last attempt to defy morning. The periodic noise of feet strolling down hallways passes nearly all of your rooms.
Vin_Da_DM: $ Start
Shadow knocks on Eclipse�s door.
Katie sits bolt upright screaming, her breathing ragged, tears pouring down her face.
Tabris rolls over and yawns, grinning half-tired he speaks softly, �I�m not sure which was more fun, you putting the clothes on or me taking them off.�
DracBlue walks out of the inn and watches the sunrise while he thinks to himself.
Kyra jolts awake, rolling out of bed in shock, then glancing over at Katie. �What the�� she says groggily.
Valrash walks around hearing people�s demons and chuckling to himself.
DracBlue flies up to watch it properly.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse yawns and cracks an eye open as he feels his spines perking, �Someone�s coming�� He shifts his limited gaze over towards Luna, nestled against him under the large flowering willow-like tree.
Claron wraps her arm around Tabris� waist and pulls herself closer to him. Smiling softly, �Your reaction to the what was underneath the clothing made complete removal necessary.�
Shadow sighs and says, �I have no time for this,� and disappears in a puff of black smoke reappearing in front of Luna and Eclipse.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne crosses his arms and watches the suns from the balcony of his room. Looking over his shoulder at the untouched bed he shakes his head, �Don�t need the sleep, but I guess it was nice of them to put me up for the night.�
Katie wheezes a few times, then flops back down.
Luna_Faline growls softly, �I hate being woken up before the second sun is full.�
Kyra hurries to her side. �What is it, Kat?�
Clarice stands quietly looking out of the window watching the villagers as they begin their day.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse quickly rolls onto his feet, holding a sword instinctively at Shadow. Blinking he shakes his head and sighs, �It�s polite to announce yourself before just showing up.�
Cara stretches in her bed, �What a relief, don�t feel the least bit sick.�
Shadow sighs, �I�m sorry. I have no time left�I have to talk with you.� He turns and motions at Eclipse.
Luna_Faline hisses at Shadow. �Your uninvited appearance at this early hour had better be damn important,� grabbing my jacket.
Tabris: �Well then, in the future I�ll be sure to remember that,� Tabris smirks then yawns again, blinking as he looks towards the window. �Morning already?�
Katie pulls a pillow over her face. �Go �way.� She sobs and hugs another pillow close to her.
Shadow just looks at Luna, sighs and says, �They did say you two where near inseparable. Oh well, I suppose I�ll have to tell you both.�
Kyra: �I�m not leaving until you tell me�� Kyra says stubbornly.
Luna_Faline pulls on a boot and looks around for the other. �You should know that whatever you tell one of us, the other will know soon enough.� Holds out a paw and the absent boot floats from behind a large rock to me.
Katie: �Enjoy waiting, then.� Comes Katie�s muffled reply. �Yer too young to know.�
Claron: �Unfortunately�� feeling the first wave of nausea of the morning, �We never did get a chance to speak with Stryder last night. He and Kyra must have been enjoying their time together. Stryder seems quite taken with her.�
Shadow looks directly at Eclipse and says, �I am a temporal cultist and my mission is done here. I have protected you, Eclipse, while you where in another body. And now, I must report back, and it will take a long while to do so.� He pauses waiting for a response.
Luna_Faline pulls on the boot and stands up.
Kyra mumbles something vulgar under her breath. �Sure I am.� She says, sitting on the bed next to her. �Look, If you don�t want to talk about it, just know I�m here when you�re ready.�
Clarice sighs as she continues to look out the window, �Damn it, Tewyn. Why do you have to keep disappearing on us?�
Luna_Faline pauses mid-stretch. �Yea, ok. So your moving on?�
Katie shrugs.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse perks a brow, �Well that explains quite a bit,� he says plainly, sounding almost as if the news wasn�t a surprise, as he begins donning his clothes, �So they sent another one of you to watch me? After 10 million years you think they�d realize I can protect myself just fine.�
Kyra sighs and pulls on her clothing, then leaves the opulent room, looking back over her shoulder and shaking her head sadly. �You are a tough nut to crack, McKinnon.� She whispers as she leaves.
Shadow sighs. �No offense, Miss Kitty�I wasn�t talking to you.� He turns back to Eclipse, �They just told me to do so and I take my orders seriously.�
Tabris: �That he does,� Tabris says while pointing Claron towards the small yet ornate door leading to the bathroom.
Katie pulls the pillow off her face, revealing her swollen eyes. �And you are a nosy pain in the ass, Darnier.� She swipes her tears from her face with the edge of the coverlet.
Arwyn sits up in her bed, propped up by numerous pillows, relieved to have finally made it to Aventine.
Shadow says, �I was here to make sure another didn�t take advantage of you while you where changed basically.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse nods, �Well then, we�ll miss you. Give my regards to your masters.� Slipping his arms through his shirt he tilts his head, �Another? Don�t suppose I can pry those layers of secrecy off and ask who?�
Luna_Faline shakes her head at Shadow, �You�ve done your job. That�s all then.� Gives Eclipse a brief glance then walks away toward the river.
Claron looks toward the ornate door, �Should have remembered to ask Cara to give me that root Luna gave to her...then I wouldn�t have to have the morning ritual of praying to bathroom throne,� chuckles softly.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder sighs staring at the ceiling of his room, �Should get up...don�t want to get up��
Shadow says, �All I know�is the person has some name with Sara in it. And she had something to do with the one named Cara.�
Kyra walks along the corridor idly, wishing she felt more useful.
Vin_Da_DM: �I see,� Eclipse shifts his gaze towards Luna, watching her move towards the river, �Well, it was a pleasure. You�ll be going then?�
Shadow says, �Yes, but I will be back�sometime soon�just not sure when.�
Vin_Da_DM: Pushing aside the bathroom door Syne looks at his reflection for a brief moment that seems to last forever. Shaking it off he moves towards the gold-brimmed sink and turns the faucet on.
Claron crawls over Tabris rather quickly. �Sorry, my love�but the throne doth calleth me�� rushes quickly towards the ornate door and into the bathroom.
Katie rolls onto her side, staring blankly at the wall.
Vin_Da_DM: Leaning over Syne splashes some water on his face, then stares at himself, �What am I going to do with you?� Chuckling he grabs a towel, �Now I�m talking to myself...silly rogue.� Wiping the water off he tosses the towel on the counter then moves to leave his room.
Luna_Faline kneels down at the rivers edge and dips some water up in her paws to drink. Then washes her face.
Cara crawls out of bed and dresses rather quickly, �Maybe Claron will be in need of this�� picking up the root.
Vin_Da_DM: �Then I�ll be sure to keep an eye out for you,� Eclipse says giving Shadow a bow of his head. �Safe travels.�
Katie: �Nightmares, little Katerina? Poor you� the voice hisses. Katie screws her eyes shut tight.
Shadow bows to Eclipse, �And now, I will take my leave.� He starts concentrating, dark energies swirl around him and envelope him. Suddenly with a loud crack of displaced air he is gone.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse shakes his head then jogs to catch up to Luna at the river.
Kyra finds herself in an indoor garden. She smiles at the beauty surrounding her, and inhales the fragrance.
Luna_Faline sits back looking around and sees her dress lying nearby. Holds out a paw and it floats up looking nearly shredded. �Oh well, I guess the pretty ones aren�t meant for battle,� sighing as I tuck it into a pocket.
Tabris� voice almost oozes sarcasm as he gets dressed, �And miss the symphonic chorus of your upchuck reflex? For shame!�
Cara heads towards Claron and Tabris� room, her head lowered as she walks. Not seeing Syne she bumps her shoulder into him in the hallway.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne looks over his shoulder at Cara as he passes her, �Morning to you, too.�
DracBlue sighs, not coming to any conclusions of his thoughts and lands. �Great beauty is all around me, and I don�t want it. I wish for something else.� He walks towards the castle.
Cara stops abruptly, glances back over her shoulder and smiles, �I am sorry, wasn�t watching were I was going. Was in such a hurry to take this to Claron,� holding the root up for Syne to see. �Figured she probably needs it more than I do.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse stands next to Luna and looks out across the river, �Beautiful morning.�
Kyra backs out of the garden and continues her wandering, she finds herself on a balcony overlooking the castle walls. �What a gorgeous morning.� She leans out over the balcony with a smile.
Vin_Da_DM: �Well then, best hurry,� Syne nods to Cara, then continues down the hall.
Luna_Faline looks up at Eclipse, �Yes, it is. Did he leave?�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder turns his head toward the window, rolling off his bed he walks over and looks through it and over several balconies. �I thought I heard your voice.� He smiles at Kyra.
Vin_Da_DM: �He�s gone, back telling his masters whatever they want to know, no doubt.� Eclipse sighs and leans down to wash his claws in the river water.
Katie pulls her pillow tighter against her. �Miss me?� the voice oozes. Katie shakes her head opening her eyes. �Not today. I won�t let you get to me. I had a horrible night. I�m going to make it a good day.� She sits up, swaying slightly.
Claron shakes her head as she pulls herself up from the floor and turns toward the gold trimmed sink. Turning the water on and leaning over the sink she brings handfuls of water to her lips. Grabbing a towel she dries her face and hands off. �Maybe it�ll be your turn next time,� throwing the towel at Tabris as she leaves the bathroom.
Kyra jumps, then turns her head toward the sound of Stryder�s voice. �I�m sorry. Did I wake you?� she returns his smile, taking in his disheveled appearance, her heart skipping a beat painfully.
Valrash looks in the direction of Katie. �Oh�what a beautiful morning, oh�what a beautiful day,� he sings.
Vin_Da_DM: Skirting his hand on the railing of the large curved staircase Syne looks up then down, �For a place this big, I�d think it�d be busier right now.�
Luna_Faline studies Eclipse'� body while he�s not looking and smiles. �Wonder what today will bring?� purring.
Cara nods and smiles at Syne as she makes her way down to Claron and Tabris� room, pausing for a second she gently knocks on the door.
Tabris chuckles as he drops the towel on the floor, turning a head he looks at the door, �Company...better find my pants then.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Well if it goes like the others, a little surprise and adventure.� Eclipse says as he stands, looking at his ragged clothing he sighs, �We should see about getting new garments.�
Claron chuckles. �Damn, and ruin my view.� Makes her way towards the door, glancing back to look at Tabris just as he finishes zipping his pants up. Opening the door up, �Why...Cara...is something wrong?�
Luna_Faline smile grows even bigger, �Surprise and adventure?� I laugh just as I lunge forward and tackle him. We both go into the river together.
Valrash looks around, but stops when he notices three blades at his throat as DracBlue says, �Make Cara uncomfortable again, and you�ll get more than claws to the throat.� And then flies up and away from him.
Tabris walks over to the bathroom, leaning back to look over at the door, �Morning, Cara.�
Cara: �Nothing that I would want to share at the moment. Hope I didn�t disturb the two of you�but I thought maybe you might be in need of this,� hands Claron the root. �Seemed to help me when I was in your body, that�s if you feel sick like I did when we were switched.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse breaks the surface and grins, splashing Luna in the face he chuckles, �If you wanted a bath, you could have asked.�
Katie stands shakily, pulling on her clothes and clamping down on her thoughts. She coils her hair on her head, pinning it in place and using her new jeweled clip to finish fastening it, leaving a tendril curling down in the back and one on each side. She caresses the clip lovingly, then looks at herself in the mirror, grimacing at the dark shadows under her eyes.
Tabris comes out of the bathroom drying his face with the towel, peeking over it he watches Cara and Claron. �Afraid you�re a little late on that.�
Luna_Faline laughs splashing him back as I walk closer to him. Sliding my arms up around his neck, �A bath would require soap, this is just fun.�
Valrash smiles, �If you only knew, bird boy.� And keeps singing what a beautiful morning.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse smiles, �Now we�ll definitely need new clothing.�
Claron smiles at Cara, �Thank you, Cara�could have used this about 5 minutes ago. Would you like to come in?�
Vin_Da_DM: Glancing around the main hall Syne gets one of the servants attention, �This place is too big, ya know that? Where do ya get grub around here?� The servant looks at him slightly confused then points him further down the hall.
Luna_Faline chuckles, �You want to go shopping?� as I run a paw over his spines playfully.
Katie: �Yer a right mess, McKinnon.� Katie tells her reflection, sighing. �Remember when we used to be strong? Remember when we did what needed doing without so much as a flinch? What happened to us? How did we become so�.� she frowns, searching her mind for a word. �Pathetic?� offers the voice helpfully. �Fuck off,� she growls.
DracBlue enters the castle and looks around for the place they serve food.
Cara shakes her head, �No, thanks. Just wanted to give that to you,� turns and heads back down the hallway.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder yawns then looks back at Kyra, �Not really....how you doing this morning?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Walking? Or shall we just float into the rest of the city?� Eclipse chuckles again lightly as he shakes his spines to get the water out from between them.
Tabris: �Wonder what�s bothering her?� Tabris questions as he slides his shirt on, then hunts around the room for his socks.
Kyra turns and leans her back against the balcony. �I�m good.� she tells him, trying not to gawk at him.
Luna_Faline blinks as he showers me with water, then grins and shakes out my mane sending a shower back at him. �I don�t think I remember how to float.�
Claron stands watching Cara as she walks away. �That was rather thoughtful of her, don�t you think?� as she shuts the door and turns to face Tabris.
Vin_Da_DM: �Just hold on then,� Eclipse smiles at her.
DracBlue bumps into Syne around a corner. �Whoa�excuse me.�
Luna_Faline nods, �Alright, but let�s not forget the waterfall.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne stops then looks at Drac, �Sheesh...do I need warning lights or something. Everybody�s running into me today.�
DracBlue sighs. �Sorry, I think I might need them, too. Hey, you know where to get food around here?�
Claron then answers Tabris� question, �With that girl, one never knows.�
Vin_Da_DM: �But that�s half the fun.� Eclipse smirks, then turns so he�s facing down stream, �Just slip your arms around my neck, not too tight though.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Heading that way now, why don�t you join me?� Syne says looking at Drac with some study in his glance.
Luna_Faline runs my paws up over his shoulders, �I already like the sounds of this,� purring in his ear.
DracBlue follows Syne. �That I will.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Seen any of the others yet? Didn�t get a chance to talk to Mom or Dad, I probably should go see them,� Stryder says to Kyra as he moves out onto his room�s balcony.
Katie�s stomach growls menacingly. �Aye,� she sighs. �Some food is in order. Wonder if they�d send a tray up to me?�
Claron moves toward Tabris, �Now...what�s on the agenda for today?� leans in planting a kiss fully on Tabris� lips when she reaches him.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse quickly does a swimming stroke sending them forward through the water, �At least I picked a body with good swimming skills, had one in the past that swam as well as a rock.�
Kyra�s eyes roam over Stryder�s bare chest, before she catches herself and blushes, shaking her head. �Haven�t seen anyone today, except a ghost.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne continues down the hall, sniffing the air as he does.
Luna_Faline fights down a moment of panic then relaxes in Eclipse�s hold.
Vin_Da_DM: �A ghost?� Stryder looks questioningly at her.
DracBlue: �Can you teach me how to eat like a human, Syne?� he asks.
Kyra sighs, �Katie looks like she�s being haunted again.�
Cara walks slowly down the hall. �Wonder where the dining hall is in this castle?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Insert food in the mouth, chew, swallow. A varying amount of hours later, spend several minutes in the head regretting what you ate.� Syne smirks as he turns into the massive dining hall.
DracBlue says, �Sounds like what I do already, but I�ve seen some using these little utensils that look scrumptious.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Silverware? You use them to eat the food, not sure they�d enjoy you eating all the knives, forks and spoons.� Syne glances around the dining hall, �That�s more like it...lots of people here.�
Clarice makes her way out of her room and down the hallway, �Sure hope I don�t get lost in this castle trying to find the dining hall.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse looks ahead, his head mostly out of the water, �Waterfall coming up, hold on.�
Katie moves to the window, singing softly to herself the same tune she was humming last night.
DracBlue sits down and imitates some of the people using silverware and eats a large amount of food very slowly.
Vin_Da_DM: �Ahh, anything I can do to help?� Stryder questions again, looking back into his room trying to visually locate the rest of his clothes.
Luna_Faline wraps her legs around one of Eclipse�s legs and wraps her tail around his waist. �Oh, my Goddess!� screeches over the roar of the fall.
Tabris: �Breakfast, maybe waste some time, then wait for whatever adventure�s gonna be dropped on us.� Tabris smiles and kisses Claron back.
Kyra shakes her head sadly, �I think it�s just something that will have to be healed by time.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse laughs as he and Luna rocket out over the waterfall, as they fall downward toward the pool below Eclipse begins gathering a small layer of shadows just underneath him. Softening the blow against the water the two make a large splash as they land safely, Eclipse glances over his shoulder, �How�s that for fun?�
Luna_Faline catches her breath in a gasp, �Once in a life time.�
Claron: �Sounds about right...except... you left out finding our son and telling him about his new baby brother or sister. I so want him to hear the news first. Then I want more than anything to share our news with Katie. You wouldn�t mind terribly if I asked her to be our upcoming child�s godmother, would you?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Ahh,� Stryder disappears into his room and comes out again slipping a shirt on, looking across at Kyra he smiles, �So, how does breakfast sound?�
Valrash walks around the castle looking for the dining room when he bumps into Cara. �Excuse me,� he says.
Tabris: �Sounds like a good choice to me,� Tabris smirks. �We should be able to find Stryder in the dining hall. If he�s awake by now, he�s probably hungry, too.�
Vin_Da_DM: Swimming along the river Eclipse drifts towards one of the banks. Grabbing hold of a large tree�s roots he looks at Luna. �After you, m�lady.�
Kyra: �Sounds like a great idea.� Kyra smiles back, inwardly disappointed by him covering up all that beautiful flesh she was so enjoying gazing at.
Luna_Faline smiles and climbs up onto the bank, �Why thank you, good sir.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne laughs at Drac, �Looks so unnatural when you do it.� Grabbing a warm roll from a basket nearby Syne takes a big bite of it.
Claron wraps her arms around Tabris� neck, planting little kisses all over his face. �I�m so glad you think so.�
Vin_Da_DM: Climbing up after Luna Eclipse takes a few paces then shakes to get the water off, �May not have had the soap, but a good bath anyway.�
DracBlue says, �I have to try and learn�for I am part human now. But I�ll still have to eat metal.� He sighs and continues till he can do it naturally.
Valrash just passes Cara obviously deep in thought, singing, �Oh�what a beautiful morning.�
Claron�s stomach growls loudly. �Time for breakfast.�
Luna_Faline laughs at him as I squeeze the water out of my tail. �That�s one good thing about being home. You never smell like fish after a swim, the rivers are so clear.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Then you may want to stop by a blacksmith shop for your second course,� Syne shakes his head a bit as he downs the rest of the roll.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder shimmers and reappears in front of Kyra on the balcony. Extending a hand he smiles, �Shall we?�
DracBlue smiles back, �Or find Tabris. He says that stuff he makes tastes good.�
Cara is surprised to hear Valrash singing as he passes her. �Don�t know if that�s a good thing�or a bad thing.�
Katie sits on the upholstered window-seat and stares out the window, unseeing.
Kyra smiles radiantly and places her hand in his, �Yes, let�s.�
Valrash stops and turns around. �It means I finally made up my mind,� keeps singing, looking for the dining hall.
Cara hears the sound of many voices coming from the room up ahead, then gets a whiff of food, �Yes! Found it�� as she enters the doors to the massive dining hall.
Luna_Faline moves away from the river and looks around for a moment, �The shops are this way, and the Temple is that way.� Indicating first one way, then the other.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse nods then walks over to Luna and takes her paw, �Lead on then, my love.�
DracBlue notices Cara enter the room and waves her over to himself.
Cara shakes her head. �He finally made his mind up, and I can�t even make up my own mind,� she whispers to herself. �Dummy�you should have asked him about what?�
Tabris raises a brow as he heads for the door, �I swear that growl of yours gets louder every time I hear it.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne watches Drac wave Cara over as he stretches to reach a bowl of scrambled eggs being passed down the table.
Valrash enters the dining room overhearing what Cara said, and mentally says to her only. ~Why what side I�m on.~
Luna_Faline smiles and moves down the lane to the shopping district, �What first? New clothes or new armor?� pausing in front of a men�s store.
Vin_Da_DM: �Clothes first, I guess,� Eclipse looks over at Luna.
Claron slips her hand into Tabris� pants pocket, dropping the Valarean root into it, �Mind holding on to that miracle root for me, my love?�
Luna_Faline nods and pulls him into the open store and moves between the racks of clothes picking up and putting back things looking for something that looks like it will fit �Try these,� pulling him towards the fitting rooms.
Tabris: �Sure not a problem,� Tabris smiles as they head into the hallway. �Now I can say �I�ve got something in my front pocket, for you� with a straight face.�
Cara nods to Drac as she sees him wave at her. �What the hell? He actually is eating the food off the silverware and not the silverware itself. He must be sick or something,� whispers to herself.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse blinks as Luna pulls him around the store, looking down at the clothes. �Okay, guess I will.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder points ahead of he and Kyra in the hall, �Looks like them. Mom! Dad! Morning!� He raises his voice loud enough to get their attention.
Cara makes her way over to the table that Syne and Drac are sitting at, �He feeling alright?� asks Syne as she nods her head towards Drac, then takes a seat next to Drac.
Luna_Faline looks around some more while Eclipse is changing clothes. Picks up a pair of leather pants and giggles as an image of Eclipse in those really tight leather pants comes into her mind. Shakes her head and puts them back on the rack whispurring to herself, �I should behave.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Yea, guess you can say he�s taking �human lessons�.� Syne chuckles, �Though I�m not the best teacher in that subject.�
Kyra: �Maybe I should let you talk to them.� Kyra says hesitantly.
DracBlue just smiles.
Clarice finds herself in front of the dining hall and walks in, �That was easier than I expected.�
Katie closes her eyes and leans her head on the windowsill.
Cara turns to look at Drac, �Why the hell you want go get all domesticated?�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne chuckles, �After eating lessons we can housebreak him.�
DracBlue says, �Why for you ,of course.�
Cara�s eyes grow large as she chokes on her own spit. Trying to catch her breath and coughing, �Oh, please!! Don�t do me any favors.�
DracBlue smiles, �Naw, I�m already housebroken.� He chuckles.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse looks in the mirror, �These look a little big, I think I need it a little smaller.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Ah, so do you put paper down or use a litter box?� Syne smirks as he eats a spoonful of eggs.
DracBlue says, �No favor to you.�
Tabris looks over his shoulder at Stryder, �There�s our boy now, dear.�
Claron turns her head towards the sound of Stryder�s voice, mentally making note that he is still with Kyra, �We missed you last night.�
Luna_Faline looks over the rack I�m behind and chuckles. �Those are supposed to fit that way. Try another pair I gave you.�
DracBlue says, �I use the toilet, my dear friend.� he says to Syne.
Vin_Da_DM: �If you say so,� Eclipse says as he folds the first pair and tries on the second.
Claron smiles at Kyra, �Good morning, Kyra dear.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Dear friend?� Syne raises a brow and looks at Cara.
Kyra: �Good morning, Mrs. DuVallis.� Kyra says shyly, looking at her feet.
Cara: �Who...me? Naw, think he meant you,� looks over at Syne.
DracBlue smiles, �Yea, I was being sarcastic to you, Syne.�
Vin_Da_DM: �So you guys wanted to talk to me about something?� Stryder looks at Claron and Tabris quizzically.
Kyra steps back a bit to give them some privacy.
Claron eyes light up as she turns her gaze towards Tabris, �You tell him, my love.�
Tabris: �Me?� Tabris looks at Claron then nods, �Okay,� turning his attention back to Stryder he moves closer and rests a hand on his shoulder, �Well�son, let�s just say the family will be getting bigger.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder blinks then glances from Tabris to Claron, �You mean?�
Claron: �No need to step back, Kyra. Everyone will know soon enough.�
Luna_Faline moves over to the fitting room door, �You need help?� reaching for the curtain slowly.
Kyra�s eyes widen.
Vin_Da_DM: �I think I�ve got it. Not a bad fit,� Eclipse says as he looks in the mirror, tucking the black hood carefully around his spines, moving the one over his cheek bone so that is no longer flat against his head.
Claron nods her head at Stryder, �Yes.�
Luna_Faline peeks behind the curtain and smiles. �I�ll have fun getting you out of that.�
Claron sees Kyra�s eyes widen while she watches Stryder�s face carefully.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder looks back at Kyra, then quickly back to Tabris and Claron, �So brother or sister? Or not sure yet?�
Claron shakes her head, �Not sure yet...still kind of partial to the surprise element.�
Kyra looks away, feeling like she�s intruding on a personal moment.
Vin_Da_DM: ~You�re not intruding.~ Stryder says to Kyra, giving her a caring glance.
Kyra: ~This is something that should be shared with family first, not outsiders.~ Kyra looks up into his eyes, her heart melting a little more.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse smirks at Luna in the mirror then turns, �I�ll take this one, fits better than the other one.�
Vin_Da_DM: ~Well, this is the family. Consider yourself the first outsider.~ Smiling at her he looks back at Claron and Tabris, �So going to get some breakfast? That�s where we were headed.�
Katie says a prayer to the Goddess in a low voice, her heart aching.
Luna_Faline giggles and backs out of the door, �What else do you need?� rubs her chin. �Oh yes, some protection for that mighty back of yours,� playfully.
Claron�s stomach growls again, �Yes, I�m starving. By the way, Kyra�where�s Katie?�
Vin_Da_DM: After her prayer Katie hears a light knocking on her room�s door.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse nods, �We�ll need to find you something as well.�
Kyra frowns, �Last I knew, she�s still in our room. She woke screaming from a horrible nightmare and refused to talk about it.�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne rests his elbows on the table and looks over at Cara and Drac, �Wonder what�s going to happen today.�
Luna_Faline raises a brow, �We can do that, too. Of course I have a huge closet full of things in my rooms,� purrsighing softly. �I haven�t gotten to wear many of my outfits in eons.�
DracBlue sighs, �I don�t know. But I hope it involves metal. These meals of yours make me more hungry by eating so slowly.�
Claron gives Tabris a worried look, �Then maybe I should go up to her room and check on her. You could have them send a tray up with plenty of food on it. At least enough to feed three,� smirks at Tabris.
Katie doesn�t turn around. �What?� she asks, sighing.
Tabris: �Guess so,� Tabris looks at Claron. �Make sure she�s alright.�
Cara shrugs her shoulder. �I know one thing that happened for me today...woke up feeling great, didn�t feel the least bit sick.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Sorry to disturb you, it�s the maid m�lady, with fresh linens.� A soft female voice sounds from beyond the door.
Katie: �Go ahead.� Katie says in a flat voice, still looking out the window.
DracBlue asks Syne, �Why would a human body be so sick for so many days?�
Claron smiles, then kisses Tabris on the cheek. �I will, my love.�
Vin_Da_DM: The door opens and a short, but cheerful looking woman in white servants clothes enters with a basket of folded sheets. She glances over at Katie, �Is m�lady feeling well?� She asks politely as she begins changing the bed sheets.
DracBlue�s stomach growls loudly even though he has eaten a lot more than Syne.
Claron turns and heads back towards the sleeping quarters.
Katie: �I�m fine.� Katie says in that same tone.
Vin_Da_DM: The maid goes quiet as she works on the bed.
Vin_Da_DM: Syne raises a brow, �Quite the growl you�ve got there.�
Luna_Faline makes eye contact with the shopkeep, who simply bows as we leave the store. Looks up and down the lane, then leads Eclipse toward the armory.
DracBlue sighs, �Its because I�m not eating correctly for my race. I doubt they serve Quickling or Lightling food around here, too.�
Claron makes her way to Katie�s room and finds the door open, peeking her head in she softly calls out, �Kat?�
Vin_Da_DM: Tucking in the last bit of sheet the maid notices Claron. Gathering her basket she bows to Claron, then heads out into the hallway
Katie: �Madame DuVallis, I presume,� Katie says in a humorless voice.
Tabris stops in front of the large entry way to the dining hall, and into the semi-crowded hall itself. Looking back at Stryder and Kyra he nods, �Looks to be a good amount of open space.�
Kyra rubs her stomach. �I just hope there�s a good amount of food,� she whispers softly.
Claron smiles at the maid, then slowly enters the room, cracking the door slightly behind her,. �You know it is,� noting the tone of Katie�s voice. �What�s wrong, Kat?�
Luna_Faline pauses at the door and looks up at Eclipse, �Your on your own this time, I don�t really like the smells in there.� Glances across the street then back to Eclipse, �I�ll be over there when your done,� stretching up to kiss him softly.
DracBlue quits eating and waits for the rest to finish.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse smiles at Luna, �Alright, shouldn�t take long.�
Katie: �Nothing, Claron. I�m just a bit tired is all.� Katie keeps her back to her best friend so she won�t see her puffy, dark smudged eyes.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder leads Kyra over to a empty section of table not far from the others. Taking a seat on the long bench he looks at Kyra, �Have a seat.�
Kyra settles herself delicately and gives Stryder a dazzling smile.
Claron moves over towards Katie and kneels down beside her. Placing a comforting hand on her arm, �Somehow I think there is more to it�than just being tired.�
Valrash finishes eating and thinks to himself, �I just wonder if it is the right choice to follow these rag tag people. But they held off my brother�s wolves. No easy task.�
Luna_Faline moves quickly across the street and enters another shop.
Tabris: �Hmm...no trays, this�ll do,� Tabris grabs a large oval-shaped plate and begins putting a decent amount of food on it. �Hmm...plenty of muffins. I know how she loves these things.�
DracBlue looks over at Cara, �Did you sleep well?�
Cara: �I slept great, felt almost like I was back home in the Citadel.�
Katie finally turns to Claron, her face impassive. �I will be fine, Nuffing. Quit your fretting,� she gives her a small sad smile. �Now what has torn you from the side of your love so fair?�
DracBlue asks, �Citadel? Is that where you were raised?�
Claron smiles back at Katie, �There is something I am just bubbling all over inside with and wanting to share with my best friend. I hope you don�t mind...but I also took the liberty of asking for a tray to be brought up to your room for you and I to share.�
Katie raises an eyebrow. �Of course I don�t mind. Why wouldn�t I enjoy spending time with my bestest friend?� a familiar old sparkle lights Katie�s eyes for a moment.
Tabris carefully walks through the halls, holding the tray with both hands, humming to himself.
Luna_Faline looks around the small shop and picks a new cloak out. Nodding to the lady behind the counter I step out and move to a bench the shade of a tree to wait for Eclipse.
Cara nods her head, �Yes, it was the place I was raised, but afraid I�ll never be able to go back there,� shudders briefly remembering how it started crumbling down around Kabal and her when Tewyn killed their mother.
Vin_Da_DM: Meanwhile on the large central street, close to where Luna and Eclipse are, a young man with blonde hair is walking in pace with a large wolf beside him. The man turns his head, listening to a faint whisper on the air, and glances to the wolf. �The Avatar is nearby, as well as another Warrior.�
Vin_Da_DM: The wolf shifts his gaze to the man with the slightest nod of his head, ~If we speak with her, she should be able to gather the other Warriors.~ The voice is firm but with a slight accent as it broadcasts in an ambient fashion from the wolf.
Claron smile broadens, �Oh, Kat. How I have missed you. I hope you will be just as thrilled to hear my...our.. news.�
DracBlue says, �Well, maybe someone will get you a citadel to live in later?�
Cara smiles weakly, �I doubt it.�
DracBlue says, �Well, if we ever make a trip back to my planet I�ll see if our carpenters will carve one out of a mountain for ya,� he smiles.
Katie: �I�m sure I will, Claron.� Katie puts her hand over Claron�s warmly, and flinches involuntarily as Tab enters with a heaping plate of food.
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse adjusts the armor padding on his clothing as he exits the armory. Checking his scabbard belt he looks over to the bench Luna is sitting at.
Tabris: �Someone order room-service?� Tabris grins as he walks over towards the two, setting the plate on a nearby table.
Claron notices Katie flinch as Tabris enters the room, �Right on cue,� as her stomach growls. �It�s okay, Katie.�
Katie flinches again, but tries to smile. �H-hello, Tab.� She says in a small voice.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder takes a large drink from his glass of water, looking over at Kyra, �Must be enjoying the food, you haven�t said anything since you started digging in.�
Luna_Faline sits with my eyes closed enjoying the breeze ruffling my fur. Catches a hint of Eclipse�s scent on the breeze, but doesn�t open my eyes, just waits for him to join me.
Claron smiles while giving Tabris �it�s a start look�. �I was just about to tell Katie our news.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse sits down next to Luna on the bench, �Didn�t smell too horrible in there...though that large lizard fellow seemed to not know what soap is��
Kyra looks up from her plate. �I�m just worried. Katie�s been acting so oddly�well, I think she has. Maybe she�s always been this way.� She shrugs, �But recently she�s seemed a bit more�normal. And then this morning she�s back to being, well, haunted.� She purses her lips, taking a sip of her juice. �Or hunted,� she adds thoughtfully.
Vin_Da_DM: The man and wolf continue up the street. Pausing the young man looks over at Eclipse and Luna sitting on the bench and gives the wolf a nod. The wolf pads over slowly, ~Avatar? May we have a word?~
Katie raises her brow. �So spill already, woman. The suspense is killing me.� A ghost of the old grin hovers around her eyes and mouth.
Claron turns back to look at Katie, �Although, I know the timing is bad...I am with child again and want very much to share this time with you.�
Claron watches for Katie�s reaction.
Katie looks like she�s been punched.
Tabris leans back in the chair he had sat in, rolling an apple around in his hand, watching Katie and Claron.
Luna_Faline flinches, slightly startled as I turn toward the pair. �Yes?� looks at the boy then the wolf. �And you are?�
Katie: �Oh my goodness�� Katie says in a whisper, then throws her arms around Claron. �THAT'�S WONDERFUL!� she sails over and hugs Tab before she realizes she�s done it, then gasps and resumes her seat. �I�m so happy for you both!� she gushes.
Vin_Da_DM: ~Gale, and this is Wraith.~ Gale says. Wraith bows his head as his name is called, before Gale continues, ~We�re from the 1st Regiment. We�ve been sent to find you and the Warriors to inquire when you�ll be coming out to inspect the troops.~
Claron smiles radiantly, �We would like for you to be the child�s godmother. Please say that you will?�
Tabris blinks, looking confused and shocked, �Um...thanks.�
Katie: Tears spring to Katie�s eyes. �Oh Claron, I�d be honored as hell.�
Luna_Faline looks from the pair to Eclipse, �I really don�t know. My Misstress hasn�t informed me of our next destination.�
Cara chuckles, �Why would you go and have that done?�
DracBlue says, �Well, it would be a challenge for my people. And it would be nice to see you smile more.�
Katie beams, all traces of sadness gone, for now. �So now you�ll have to start thinking of names, and�� she shakes her head, smiling. �Have you told Stryder?�
Vin_Da_DM: �Well, we haven�t been in the castle yet,� Eclipse shrugs looking at Luna then looks at the pair, �We�ll have to speak with Selenia before anything else.�
Claron�s eyes well up with tears as well. �You have no idea how happy this makes me...us. Now, how about sharing some of this food that Tabris brought up for us�� rising from her kneeling position and makes her way over the table with the tray. �OH, yummmmy. You remembered the muffins!� Quickly grabs one of the muffins.
Vin_Da_DM: ~We will accompany you to the castle then.~ Gale says calmly, looking at Wraith who nods in response. ~If that is acceptable with you, Avatar.~
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder wipes his mouth with a cloth, �Mmm, not bad.�
Luna_Faline sighs and stands up from the bench, �Of course.� Rolls her eyes at Eclipse and asks, �Shall we?�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse nods. �We shall,� extending his hand to Luna he looks at the pair once more.
Kyra leans back with a groan, �I think I�m full.�
Katie takes some fruit off the tray and nibbles it.
Luna_Faline places her paw lightly in Eclipse�s hand and returns to the castle quickly. �Never fails does it?� whispurring to Eclipse. �Seems like we are forever to be interrupted.�
Claron nods her head, �Yes, Stryder knows. Kyra as well. What fun it will be going through names. You get name the girl this time, Tabris. And Katie and I will name it�if its a boy.�
Cara: �And what if you never see your people again?�
DracBlue says, �Then I will find someone to settle down with. I just hope she is as nice as you.� He sighs, �But that�s only if I can�t find my people again.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Seems to be our lot in life,� Eclipse shrugs a bit as he walks with Luna.
Vin_Da_DM: �Well better than hungry,� Stryder smiles. �Wonder how Mom and Dad are doing with Katie?�
Katie moves on to some toast. �Gosh, I was hungry.�
Kyra looks concerned. �I hope they are getting through to her. I certainly couldn�t.�
Cara looks at Syne as she answers Drac, �Don�t think one could equate nice and me in the same sentence.�
Tabris: �Had your fill of the tray, Kat?� Tabris looks across the table at her.
DracBlue says, �You have been nothing but nice to me�even if it was just to use me.�
Claron reaches for another muffin, then glances at Tabris, �I know...I can�t have more than two more.�
Katie grins and grabs another piece of fruit. �I dunno. This tray has everything a girl could want.�
Claron: �And more!�
Luna_Faline looks ahead of us toward the castle. �I had so many things I wanted to do while we were here this time.�
Tabris nods, �Yea, I guess I made sure it was stacked enough to please both of you ladies.�
Claron laughs, �And you have done quite well at satisfying us both.�
Tabris: �No need to thank me, it was your idea after all, babe,� Tabris smiles at Claron.
Katie sits back whimpering, �Oh, I�m gonna be sore. That was too much.� She eyes the depleted tray a few minutes later. �But I can�t remember when I�ve enjoyed myself more.�
Vin_Da_DM: The castle gates are opened by the guards, Telepi gives Luna a wave from the doorway of the guardhouse as they pass.
Claron smirks, �I am glad you liked my idea about breaking bed with Katie.�
Luna_Faline smiles at Telepi and nods as we pass thru the gates.
Tabris raises a brow at Claron.
Claron: �Er...I mean bread.�
Katie chokes on her fruit.
Vin_Da_DM: Gale nods to Telepi as well. ~We will wait in the courtyard until you return, Avatar.~ Gale blinks as he watches Luna and Eclipse walk towards the castle.
Katie leans back against the cushions and sighs. �Thanks. I feel better now.� She smiles at Claron.
Cara: �If you say so...If I was you, I wouldn�t trust me to stay that way.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder gets off the bench and looks over at Kyra, �Well, I�m done. If you�re ready, how about a walk before whatever�s gonna happen, happens.�
DracBlue smiles, �As long as I have a use, I�ll be happy. The other Warriors seem to either mind my company, or just don�t want me around.� He looks over to Syne, �With a few exceptions.�
Luna_Faline nods in response to the wolf and walks away. As we enter the castle I look at Eclipse, �What is up with those two?�
Claron reaches over and gives Katie a warm loving hug, �Its about time you, Tab, and I enjoyed ourselves together.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Not sure, but they didn�t seem to be deceiving us.� Eclipse shrugs a bit, his expression uncertain.
Kyra looks up at Stryder. �I�m finished. A walk sounds like my idea of heaven.�
Katie leans back too far and teeters on the edge of the windowsill.
Tewyn continues walking down the path looking down at a battered and bloodied ^Shinta unconscious in his arms. �Wow, they really did a number you.�
Katie: �Crap!� Katie rights herself, �And this is sober. Glad I wasn�t having wine with lunch.�
Claron: �I�d say�no need getting the wee one all liquored up.�
^Shinta starts mumbling in and out of consciousness, �I miss....Em.��
Tewyn looks down, �They aren�t the only ones to of done a number on you�hey, kid?�
Luna_Faline sniffs the air in the grand entry, then moves to the throne room and enters as the doors open for us. Moving to the bottom of the steps at Selenia�s feet I bow my head briefly, �Misstress.�
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia puts the scroll she was reading aside and looks at Luna, �Yes, my child?�
Tewyn shakes his head, �Never seen anyone just stand there and take a beating like that�why I can�t understand you humans sometimes.�
Claron: �Seriously, Kat. Its good to hear you laugh again...just like old times...except now I don�t have to check Tabris� ass out. I can see it anytime I please.�
Luna_Faline looks up at her, �There is a pair from the First Regiment here. They want to know when I am coming to inspect the troops?�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse stands besides Luna, giving Selenia a bow of the head.
Katie raises her eyebrow. �And now if I check it out, I�ll be swallowing teeth.�
Claron laughs, �I wouldn�t fault you for looking, touching would be a different story.�
Tewyn: �Lets hope we catch up to them soon.�
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia nods, �Yes. I was going to summon you all about the matter.� Selenia stands, motioning to one of her bodyguards who disappears behind the curtains, �As the Warriors, you are to be given the honor and distinction of being joint commanders of the 1st Regiment. Our best group of soldiers.�
Katie: �Stingy ass.� Katie grumbles, then winks at her best friend.
Vin_Da_DM: �A whole regiment?� Eclipse questions, �That�s a big responsibility, but if you believe us ready.�
Tabris: �Ahem...I am right here you know,� Tabris looks at Claron and Katie.
Cara: �Don�t feel like the lone ranger, wouldn�t say they are exactly overly fond of me either.�
Kyra: ~More fond than you know.~ Kyra smiles as she walks, sending reassurance to Cara.
Vin_Da_DM: �Well as a fellow non-warrior, I�d say we�re all tolerated well enough. Otherwise we wouldn�t be here still,� Syne says to Cara and Drac.
DracBlue looks in puzzlement, �What is a lone ranger?� He sighs, �And we�re tolerated well�I know, but still��
Claron smiles at Tabris, �Yes, my love, right here where you belong,� slipping her hand down below the table and placing it on his thigh.
Katie looks out the window again.
Tabris: �With my ass on display it seems,� Tabris chuckles lightly.
Claron looks over at Tabris as Katie returns her gaze back out the window, �Now don�t go getting all quiet on us, Kat. Tabris is displaying his ass,� snickers.
Tewyn looks down at ^Shinta as blood flows slowly from his nose and mouth. �Damn it, I better get you there a bit faster...If I knew just how damn far left we have to go�.�
Katie turns back for a moment with a faint smile.
Cara chuckles, �Someone that is completely alone. It�s just a saying.�
Luna_Faline nods in agreement with Eclipse, �Yes, it is. When will we have to leave here?�
DracBlue sighs, �Well then, the two of us are not lone rangers�if we�re friends.�
Cara hears Kyra in her mind. ~You always seem to creep into my thoughts at just the right time�~ replies mentally back to Kyra only.
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia takes the wrapped cloth item her bodyguard carefully hands her from it�s mouth, �You have the rest of the day to get familiar with them. But you must depart for the Corrin hills by mid-sun tomorrow, if we are to intercept the Dark Army�s task force in time.�
Tewyn tops the mountain peak and looks over. �Well, I�m guessing we are heading in the right direction,� seeing the city off in the distance.
Kyra: ~You do it, too�~ Kyra�s mental voice sounds amused. ~Just when I need it most, you have just the right comment.~
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder looks at Kyra oddly, �You okay? Look kinda distracted.�
Cara: �Is that what we are?� Then thinks to herself, �I haven�t exactly acknowledged you as a friend.�
^Shinta: ��Emer.��
Kyra gives Stryder a heart-stopping smile. �I�m more than okay.� She links her arm with his and leans into him.
Tewyn: �Just hold on, monk...I�m trying to get you there fast as I can.�
DracBlue says, �You may not consider me one, but I consider you one. Even if it is the type of friend that only uses you.� He raises an eyebrow.
Vin_Da_DM: �Ok,� Stryder smiles and continues walking with Kyra as they stroll through the castles hallway.
Katie stares out the window, her fingers going to her bracelet, she traces the charm with her fingers.
^Shinta: ��ald...eyes...I...miss.��
Cara lowers her head at Drac�s comment and doesn�t say a word.
Tewyn: �Ok�ok, you unconscious bead weaver, get off my back...I�m trying to get you there.�
Tewyn: �I�m sure she misses you as well.�
DracBlue gets up, �Well, I can�t hold off my hunger anymore. I�m off to the blacksmith.� He smiles to Cara, �Remember�I don�t care if its just to use, I�ll be your friend.� And he walks off to find a blacksmith.
Luna_Faline looks over at Eclipse then back to Selenia. �We can�t let them break thru any further.�
Claron catches sight of Kat fondling her bracelet, �Don�t fret, Kat. I�m sure Tewyn and Shinta will find us...,� glancing over at Tabris with a �I sure hope so look�.
Katie: �The last words we spoke were in anger.� Katie says in a small voice. �Except for the brief words we spoke while I was your son.� Her eyes well up, though no one can see, as she�s facing the window.
Luna_Faline sighs, �Misstress, some of our group are missing. And some are not Warriors, at least not that they know.�
Katie gives a half-sob. �Most of what we say is in anger, anymore.�
Tabris nods then looks over at Katie, �It�ll be okay, Kat. I wouldn�t be surprised if they weren�t already here in town.�
Tewyn gets to a safer point on the mountain, �Ok�now let�s really get moving, I think we can terra surf it the rest of the way.�
Katie looks back over her shoulder at Tab with a grateful look, then returns her gaze to the scenery.
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia nods, �I know, but they will not be for long. As for the others, even though they may not be chosen, they are powerful allies.� Stepping down from the throne Selenia extends the folded cloth towards Luna. �Take this my child, may it help guide you through the darkness ahead.�
Tewyn: �Then maybe you will shut the hell up...You talk more knocked out than when your awake.�
DracBlue looks into the blacksmith�s place. �Hello? Anyone around?�
Tewyn brings up a terra wave and moves at a faster pace toward the city.
Luna_Faline reaches out and takes the wrapped object carefully. Inhaling deeply I slowly unwrap it and look at it.
Cara: �Enjoy your real food, Drac.� Looks over at Syne, �Attaches himself to someone�and doesn�t seem to wanna let go. I just don�t get it.�
^Shinta arms start flailing around smacking Tewyn in the face, then gives him the finger...before he goes lifeless again.
Tewyn: �Oh, son of a bitch....That must be the Remy I�ve heard mentioned...I�m gonna kill you�if I have to find a fucking witch doctor.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse raises a brow, �Excellent craftsmanship.� Selenia looks down at Luna and nods, �Use it wisely and do not lose it. You cannot afford to have it fall into the hands of evil.�
Vin_Da_DM: As Tewyn draws closer to the city, the city gates are not that far away. A large camp of tents are setup just outside the main gates, with a wide variety of soldiers hanging around.
Luna_Faline handles the sword carefully looking at the details. �Is it more than a sword?� I ask in awe.
Tewyn: �Hmmm, seems we are in time for something...or the carnival is in town.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Eh, who knows, maybe he�s just lonely,� Syne shrugs as he stands up, grabbing a piece of fruit from the table.
Tewyn stops short of the tents and starts to walk again, looking around cautiously.
Vin_Da_DM: The blacksmith looks around his furnace and bellows at Drac, ducking slightly so his horns don�t impale a bag hanging from the ceiling. �Yes? Need something?�
Kyra stretches. �I have the strangest feeling everything is gonna hit the fan again,� she murmurs.
Vin_Da_DM: Several groups of soldiers standing aside the road watch Tewyn and Shinta, conversing amongst themselves after they pass.
DracBlue says, �Yes, I come to barter gems for metals.� He walks up to the man and holds a bag up halfway filled with all sorts of gems.
Tewyn: �Ok, I was wrong...its not the carnival...so, lets see what�s behind gate number one�
Vin_Da_DM: �Exactly how much are you after?� The blacksmith inquires, taking the bag and weighing it in his hand.
Cara: �Maybe,� while thinking a different thought in her mind.
DracBlue says, �Enough to fill the bag on my back, and enough to fill my stomach right now.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder shakes his head, trying to dismiss a stray thought, �Sorry, what was that?� He looks at Kyra quizzically.
Tewyn walks up to the gates.
Cara gasps, then smiles.
Kyra �Nothing, love.� Kyra shakes her head and continues walking.
Vin_Da_DM: Selenia sits back down on her throne, �Yes, not only is it a weapon, but like your sais, it possesses divine powers. Though this power is greatest when it is within these walls, it will serve you well outside them.� Selenia looks at Eclipse then at Luna again, �I would ask you inform the others of your charge.�
Tewyn: �Well, this sucks...I�m filing a complaint...I didn�t receive my �Welcome to Aventine door greeter message�.�
Tewyn enters through the gates, looking around.
Claron looks at the now quiet Katie, �How about taking a walk with a pregnant lady? Maybe we could look in a few shops for some baby items, too.�
Luna_Faline bows, �Yes, Misstress. We will.�
Katie looks over at Claron and sighs. �You aren�t going to take no for an answer, are you?�
Vin_Da_DM: A blonde haired woman with a Celtic tattoo on her shoulder notices Tewyn and Shinta and approaches, �You should get him to a healer immediately,� her accent is thick, but pleasant as he studies Shinta then looks to Tewyn. �What happened?�
Claron smirks, �You know me just about as well as Tabris, and �no� doesn�t exist in my vocabulary,� laughs before adding, �...obviously.�
Tewyn looks over to the woman, �Oh, he just wanted to be a punching bag for a while...and I�m on my way to one...if I can find them.�
Tabris: �You kidding? Not my wife,� Tabris chuckles as he slides off the chair.
Katie gives a ghost of a grin, trailing a finger across Claron�s still-flat belly, �Obviously.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Any kind of metal in particular, or just some scrap iron?� The blacksmith says as he uses his second and third arms to tend to a sword in the furnace.
Claron, �So, I take that as a yes.�
DracBlue says, �Iron will do fine, and 1 bar of anything stronger will do.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Find who? Maybe I can help you find them?� She asks, adjusting her leather armor as she stands there.
Tewyn: �I was tracking some travelers that should be here by now.�
Katie rolls her eyes, �Yes,� she says grudgingly. �Since you won�t let me have my quiet time.�
Tewyn: �Hmm, you may know them as the Warriors. Or one called Luna_Faline.�
Claron smiles as she glances over at Tabris, �It�ll be fun...and besides, I think you have had plenty of alone time...up until this morning.�
Vin_Da_DM: �The Warriors, yes.� She nods enthusiastically, �They�re up at the castle last we heard. Sent two of our own to go looking for them as well.�
Tewyn: �Hmm, I see, must be another important meeting going on.�
Luna_Faline lowers the sword slowly, �Thank you, Misstress.� Then moves up the steps and hugs her quickly. �I miss you when I�m away.�
Claron turns to Tabris, �Will you be joining us? Or must I use my powers of persuasion on you, also?�
Katie stretches and rises slowly.
Vin_Da_DM: �As do I, my child.� Selenia touches Luna�s cheek with her warm hand, �May the divine be with you, Luna, and with you as well, Eclipse.� She smiles gently.
Tewyn nods, �Thanks for the information, I better be getting there to get this one some help.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse bows, �And with you, goddess.�
Claron slips her arm into the crook of Katie�s, �Shall we?� starting to move towards the door.
Vin_Da_DM: �You�ll be able to manage on your own? I�d be glad to help.� The woman asks Tewyn in a friendly tone, but with some concern to it.
Katie gives her window seat one last longing look and sighs, moving with Claron.
Tewyn smiles, �I�ve toted this bead bag for hundreds of miles now�The short hop, skip to the castle should be a breeze.�
Tabris: �No need to use any powers on me, I�m coming,� Tabris grins and follows after the two.
Tewyn: �But thanks for the offer, anyway.�
Vin_Da_DM: �G�luck to you and your friend, perhaps we�ll meet again.� She nods then smiles again.
Tewyn: �He needs more than luck...but I�m sure he would say thank you,� turning and heading toward the castle.
Claron and Katie leave the room and head down the hallway.
Claron sways her hips ever so slightly as she walks to tease Tabris.
Luna_Faline rubs my cheek against her hand lovingly then stands up and takes Eclipse�s hand and leads him to a door set into the wall behind the throne. It opens into a courtyard full of flowers and ponds, surrounded by doors and balconies. I lead him across the courtyard to a door which I open into my private suite. �Welcome to my home,� I purr softly.
Vin_Da_DM: The blacksmith turns grabbing up some iron and a bar of something hued orange with his first and second arms. With his other two he handles the gem bag, then grabs bags for the iron. Packing it all up he slides it to Drac with a thrust of his tail and a wide fanged grin, �Not sure what you�re gonna do with it, but I won�t ask no questions.�
Katie stays quiet as they walk, lost in thought
DracBlue sticks one of the bars in his mouth and chews on it to show the man. Then takes the bag and puts it on his side before he heads back to the castle and into the dining hall to sit next to Cara. This allows him to be able to follow her around now with a huge grin on his face from no longer being hungry.
Vin_Da_DM: �You�re a strange pair, I�ll give you that,� Syne comments to Cara seeing Drac next to her.
Cara: �Guess you got that bottomless pit of yours full finally.�
Cara wrinkles her nose at Syne, �Hey, its not my idea.�
Vin_Da_DM: As Tewyn reaches the castle gates Telepi notices him and Shinta and rushes over, �Sir Tewyn and Sir Shinta, quickly, let them inside!� He shouts to the gate guards, who swiftly open the castle gates.
Luna_Faline moves to an altar set into the wall next to the door and lays the sword on it lightly. Then looks around the room with a smile, �I should have an old leather around here somewhere, that I used for a sword similar to this one at least a century ago,� opening a door to what appears to be a storage area.
Tewyn nods to Telepi, �Thank you...It�s been a long time.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse waves a hand to get the dust away from his face, �I�d say a few more from the looks of it.�
Tewyn: �Are the Warriors near? I need to find them.�
Clarice quietly slips out of the dining hall and starts to head outside of the castle when she spots Claron, Katie and Tabris. �Where you three off to?�
Claron smiles as she sees her sister, �Off to shop for some baby items.�
Vin_Da_DM: �The Avatar and Sir Eclipse passed by not long ago, they should be inside,� Telepi says as he escorts Tewyn with Shinta to the castle door. Jakuzzi quickly gets to her feet and salutes, trying to discreetly hide the doll she had been playing with under her armor.
Luna_Faline growls in frustration and closes the door, steps thru an archway into the bedroom and moves on to the closet. As I enter it lights up with a glow from an unseen source. I pull out an old trunk and open it up. �Ah ha, here it is,� pulling out a jumble of purple leather.
Tewyn gives a wink to Jakuzzi, �I won�t tell.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse looks at the purple leather, �At least a century you say? Must have been an interesting time.�
Vin_Da_DM: The castle doors open allowing Tewyn inside the main hall.
Luna_Faline untangles the leather pieces with a grin. �You have no idea, but then again I don�t have much of one myself.�
Tewyn: �Thank you again,� nodding to the dragons, before entering the main hall.
Clarice gets a surprised look on her face, �Did I hear you correctly? Or are my ears hearing things? Baby things?� Then as if a light bulb had illuminated her mind, it dawns on her. �Claron, Tab...I�m going to be an Aunt again! I am very happy for you both.�
Katie gives a small smile, looking at her feet.
Vin_Da_DM: Gale and Wraith, having watched Tewyn and Shinta enter the castle look at each other. Wraith speaks softly, �Spirits, two of them, around the injured one.�
Tabris: �Yea, another kid who would hav...what in the?� Tabris pauses mid-step, looking over at Tewyn and Shinta, �What kind of truck ran over him?�
Clarice shouts out, �Tewyn! Oh dear god! What happened?�
Tewyn looks up to the others now in front of him... �I think he tried to become human.��
Tabris: �By getting the crap kicked out of him...they are better ways, I�ll tell you.� Tabris curses under his breath, �We�d better find Luna.�
Claron gasps and then begins to worry about what this will do to Kat.
Katie looks up at the mention of the name, her eyes wide, �Oh, nooo.� She whimpers, feeling her legs going out from under her at the sight of all the blood and bruising.
Luna_Faline looks around the closet at the assortment of clothing. �It�s such a shame these just hang here and don�t get worn.� Sighing as I take a black sleeveless shirt and the matching black pants off the hanger and put them on.
Tewyn: �He did things I�d never thought I�d see him do,� laying ^Shinta on the ground.
Vin_Da_DM: �Dressing to match me now?" Eclipse says, watching Luna put on the black clothing.
Claron concentrates on lightening the gravity of Katie as she feels Katie grow heavier against her. �Tab!�
Luna_Faline looks up at him and laughs, �I didn�t even think about that, but it does look that way doesn�t it?�
Tewyn looks back up�looking directly to Katie, �He has been calling for you�and you alone.�
Katie: �What�what did he do?� Katie asks, stricken, fighting off the blackness threatening her.
Tabris moves over to help support Katie.
Tewyn: �I found him in a tavern...if you can believe that.�
Katie blinks. �In a what?� she asks weakly.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder stops and looks at Kyra, �Something�s wrong...strong emotion, I think it�s Katie.�
Tewyn: �He was in a tavern...letting these guys just beat the hell out of him, without putting up a fight...That�s what I got from the tender...I found him like this.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Not that I mind, of course,� Eclipse smiles at her, �Got everything you need?�
Clarice: �This does not look good at all,� turning to glance around for one of the pages or servants in the castle. �We need you to find Luna_Faline, immediately!� barks out as one of the servants pass by them.
Luna_Faline closes the trunk and pushes it back where it was then moves back out of the closet into the bedroom. �We should have come back here last night, Shadow wouldn�t have found us here.�
Katie reaches a hand out to stroke the side of Shinta�s face, her fingers trembling. �What did you do, you idiot?�
Vin_Da_DM: The servant looks slightly terrified by having Clarice yell at him, but he rushes off quickly enough.
Tewyn: �Course after I got the rafters a shaking...seems one of the men said something bad about green eyed women�and the monk spoke up, just wouldn�t fight back.�
Kyra pales. �Oh no. Not again. She can�t handle any more.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Oh well...he�s gone now anyway.� Eclipse says with nod, �So how do we get out of here.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder closes his eyes then turns, �I think they�re in the main hall, I�m getting a lot of mixed thoughts from that direction.�
^Shinta: �Em...em�.�
Luna_Faline raises a brow and slowly walks toward him, �What�s the rush?�
Katie Tears pour down Katie�s face. �Why the hell was he there in the first place?� she fights back the darkness.
Tewyn: �That you will have to ask him...only he knows that answer.�
Kyra jolts forward. �I�m going to find her!�
Vin_Da_DM: �Not sure...something feels off.� Eclipse looks at Luna, �Might be nothing, but like I said, I�m not sure.�
Tewyn: �He has been in and out of consciousness, maybe you can bring him fully around.�
Katie staggers to her knees, reaching for him.
Tewyn steps back moving toward Clarice
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder follows after Kyra, �Not without me you�re not.�
Tewyn doesn�t look toward her, �Clarice.��
Katie: Crawling, Katie lays her hand on his forehead. �You stubborn ass. Open your goddamn eyes and face me.�
Cara picks up on Kyra�s emotional mental state. Looking at Syne, �Something�s wrong... if you will excuse me��
^Shinta coughs roughly, �That...you...emerald�eyes..� with eyes not yet open.
Luna_Faline ears twitch as I pause, �I think your right. This way,� moving back the way we entered. I hear a knock on the courtyard door as I step into the sitting room. �I guess that is our answer.� Opening the door to see a page standing there looking very pale. �Yes?�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne perks a brow with curiosity, �If something�s wrong, you�re not excused from my company, kiddo.�
Katie cries harder, pressing her forehead against his. �Yes. It�s me. What were you thinking, going into a place like that?�
Clarice: �Tewyn,� moving closer to him reaching her hand out to him.
^Shinta: �I...I...had to know�� trying to open his eyes.
Claron leans against Tabris.
Tabris wraps his arms around Claron.
Tewyn lowers his head, �I caused you that pain�we are seeing in front of us now...Didn�t I?�
Katie: �Know what?� Katie sits back, studying his face.
^Shinta eyes open slightly, looking absent. �Why you do it to ease the pain...I had to...I had to know...you.�
Vin_Da_DM: The page finally manages to get a grasp on his words, �M-main h-hall...scary w-woman...gods, a man, injured. Need you...hurry!�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse places a hand on the page�s shoulder, �Just breath and calm down. You stay here.�
Katie: Comprehension dawns. �You got drunk? So that you�d understand me better?� She closes her eyes. �I was right. You ARE an idiot,� but she smiles. �And? Did you find out why I try not to make a regular habit of it?�
Clarice is taken aback by Tewyn�s words, then slowly nods her head. �I--I am afraid so.� Tears begin to pool in her eyes.
Luna_Faline shakes my head at his garbled message, but takes off running anyways, as the smell of Tewyn and Shinta come to me on the breeze blowing thru the open doors.
^Shinta moves his hand up to his chest. �Do you do it to cover the pain...here?�
Cara turns around and looks at Syne, �You are coming too, aren�t you?�
Tewyn: �I�m...I�m sorry...I never understood. Its so easy for me to remove emotions for things to be done...I was unfair to you, it seems.�
Vin_Da_DM: �You said something�s wrong, don�t see why I should stay here and baby-sit flyboy,� Syne says.
Katie: �Yes.� Katie whispers. �But�you never should have picked a fight if you weren�t willing to finish it.� She sits back, taking his hand in hers.
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder shimmers Kyra and himself directly to the main hall. Letting Kyra go he stands back away from the others, simply watching.
Clarice feels the tears sliding down her cheeks, � And now�you see that sometimes there is a need for emotions?�
^Shinta: �I had to mask the other pain...and he cursed green eyed women....what was one to do?�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse follows just behind Luna, �Tewyn and Shinta...smell of blood as well.�
Tewyn: �I see...it is more complicated than I ever knew.�
Luna_Faline runs thru the throne room practically ignoring the guards as I pass them. As I throw open the heavy outer doors I see Shinta laying on the floor, and run to him. �Oh my Goddess! What did you do?� kneeling next to him and laying my paws on his chest.
Katie: �Oh, you dolt.� Katie�s sobs get louder. �Don�t you know that green-eyed women are trouble, by now?�
Tewyn looks up, �LUNA, LET HIM BE!...There are some injuries your touch can not heal...This is one of those I am thinking.�
Cara heads out of the dining room, just as she enters the main area she spots her father. Racing towards him, she calls out his name, �F-father!" throwing her arms around him when she reaches him.
^Shinta tries to smile. �But not to say anything...for once I could not.�
Tewyn is a bit shocked by Cara�s actions to him. �It�s nice to see you, too.�
Luna_Faline glares up at Tewyn and growls. �I can heal his body, the mind and soul I have no power over�AS YOU WELL KNOW!!�
Vin_Da_DM: Syne stands watching from the archway heading into the side hall, leaning against the arch frame as he does.
Tewyn nods, �Then let the one who can, and is by his side do the healing.�
Cara pulls slightly back from Tewyn. �I�m sorry, you don�t like it when we show emotions. I forgot myself. Forgive me.�
Tewyn: �Well, maybe you can show me ways I could then, daughter��
Luna_Faline looks from Tewyn to Shinta, �What say you, Shaman?�
Katie: A slow simmering fire builds in Katie�s eyes. �You treat me like I�m an unfaithful tramp, and then you go and get the shit kicked out of you, and tell me it was for me?� she growls something obscene.
Kyra starts forward, toward Katie.
^Shinta closes his eyes again, �To truly know and understand you...I did what I thought was right�I wanted to live the life of a man...not a monk for once in my life...I�m sorry to of upset you.�
Katie: �You are hell on a girl�s heart, y�know that, you overstuffed, pompous jackass?� She huffs out another breath, but doesn�t release his hand.
^Shinta: �I think I�ll be ok, Luna.��
Tewyn looks up slowly to Clarice. �And maybe you can help me do the same.�
Cara looks up at her father, �You really think I can teach you? Seems Clarice has a better understanding of emotions than either one of us. You could learn much more from her, methinks.� Glances over at Clarice, �And then we could both learn together from her.�
Katie strokes the side of Shinta�s face. �I�m so mad at you right now.� She glares, wiping away blood with her tunic hem..
Luna_Faline looks at him and shakes my head, �I�ll not force my gift on anyone who doesn�t accept it,� pulling my paws back from him and standing up.
^Shinta: �I deserve that...and much more from you, Katie...but I have one question for you��
Tewyn looks at Cara then at Clarice, �Or we could all show each other.�
Luna_Faline moves back over to Eclipse and just looks at him sadly.
Clarice takes a deep breaths as she looks back and forth between Tewyn and Cara, �We will help one another to understand each other better.� Clarice moves in wrapping her arms around Tewyn�s neck and kissing him.
Katie growls again.
^Shinta: �Do the mornings after always hurt this bad?�
Katie: �Only if yer unlucky.� Katie grins. �I don�t get hangovers. But welcome to your first.�
^Shinta: �Thanks...I...think.�
Tabris holds back a chuckle at Shinta�s question to Katie, but he looks at Claron.
Luna_Faline turns and leans my back against Eclipse�s chest. �You�ve only to ask, to receive the help,� I grumble to the crowd.
Katie: �When you are feeling better, I�ve half a mind to kick your ass myself.� Katie sighs.
Clarice smiles, �You can start by promising never to take off again without telling one of us.�
^Shinta: �You can bandage me up if you like...then I promise you are first in line for round two.�
Katie blows a breath out. �Oh-so-tempting.� She scowls. �In the meantime, let�s get you in bed.�
Claron playfully jabs Tabris in the side, �I know mine sure do.�
Tewyn nods, �You have my word, I�ll never leave that way again.�
^Shinta tries to sit up. �This time I won�t argue.�
Clarice: �That�s a beginning then.�
Vin_Da_DM: Eclipse leans in close to Luna and whispers to her, �I think we should give them some space. Let�s go see these troops of ours.�
Tewyn wraps his arms around Clarice and Cara. �Care to join me for some lunch? Ladies choice.�
Luna_Faline shivers as Eclipse whispers in my ear, then nods and moves around them carefully. �I should have grabbed my sword on my way out.�
Katie motions for some servants to help her get Shinta upstairs to a room.
Vin_Da_DM: �We can go get it,� Eclipse looks at Luna.
Cara: �I don�t feel much like eating, besides...I seemed to have picked up a parasite,� tilting her head towards Drac. �You and Clarice go on without me. I am sure the two of you have much to discuss, Father.�
Luna_Faline smiles and whispurrs, �Can we take the shortcut?�
^Shinta looks at Katie, �Thank you.�
Tewyn gives Cara a wink, �Fire does wonders for parasites, ya know...and you still owe me those stories of your brother, dear one.�
Katie sniffs. �Don�t thank me yet. I haven�t decided yet what torture I�m planning.�
^Shinta: �No, but I have to thank you for showing me the line between living the life of a man....and that of a monk.�
Vin_Da_DM: A pair of castle guards and a maid help Katie with Shinta, the maid uses a cloth to wipe some of the blood off Shinta as they go.
Cara nods her head, �I know�and I will, but for now you should spend this time with Clarice. She has missed you so.�
Katie: �Yeah, well�� Katie looks thoughtful. �Being a man is just as hard, if not harder. You have to deal with some things that would try a saint�and overcome them.�
Tewyn: �Then when we start out on the next journey, will you share them?�
^Shinta nods, �I will do my best...for I�ve found something to be worthy of it.�
Katie snorts, but looks a bit pleased.
Cara: �I will try to, Father. I still have a hard time with his being gone.�
^Shinta: �But I could just do with you by my side for this night...it would be a great comfort...but the choice is yours.�
Vin_Da_DM: �Sure can,� Eclipse says to Luna, holding her close as they disappear with a ripple into his shadow and slide out moments later in Luna�s chambers.
Tewyn: �Then in time...When you are ready, I will be ready to listen.�
Katie sets a chair next to the bed as they lay him down. �I will stay.� She sighs as she settles into it.
Cara smiles then hugs her father again, �I�m glad you�re back.�
^Shinta smiles while closing his eyes. �I�ve missed you these days, Emerald eyes.�� slowly drifting off to a slumber.
Luna_Faline turns in his arms as we reappear, �I love it when you do that,� sliding up to kiss him quickly. �It�s a shame we have work to do now.�
Tewyn nods, �I am happy to be back.�
Vin_Da_DM: �A shame, but it must be done,� Eclipse nods to Luna.
Katie: �You�re an asshole, Shaman.� Katie grumbles softly, reaching over to smooth the hair out of his face as his breathing tells her he�s finally asleep once more.
Clarice walks beside Tewyn as Cara leaves the two of them, �You are about to become a sorta-Uncle again, my drow.�
Kyra leans wearily against the wall. �I don�t know about this,� she says softly.
Tewyn: �I got that idea last we saw each other.�
Katie leans over and twines her fingers with Shinta�s, snuggling herself down into the chair for a nap.
Clarice: �Well...it�s official now.�
Vin_Da_DM: Stryder leans against the wall and looks at Kyra, �About what?�
Kyra sighs, �Katie�s not that strong these days.�
Katie: �Dumb ass.� Katie whispers drowsily. �It�s good to have you back with us.�
Luna_Faline sighs and moves away from him trying to push aside the urge to ignore the troops. I go find the purple leathers and come back to the altar. Carefully sliding the leather sheath over the blade, �It fits purrfectly,� as I place it over my shoulders and buckle the straps across the front. �Hmmmm, my last incarnation to use this must have been less gifted, it�s a little snug.�
Clarice smiles softly, �And I am glad you are back, too. Feel like a part of me is missing when you are gone.�
Tewyn takes Clarice's hand, �Then come tell me over lunch, will you.�
Vin_Da_DM: �I think it fits you just fine,� Eclipse says with a soft smile.
Luna_Faline smiles at him, �I suppose we should go find those troops now.�
Clarice: �Only if we can take lunch back to our room,� winks at Tewyn.
Tewyn: �I�ll call for the water delivery every half hour.�
Clarice laughs, then whispers, �Just hope Remy stays away this time.�
Vin_Da_DM: �I suppose,� Eclipse studies Luna for a moment, �But I don�t think we need to take the short route.�
Luna_Faline leads the way from my suite outside, avoiding the throne room this time. �I have many ways in and out of the castle,� as we exit the castle into the training area.
Vin_Da_DM: As the twin suns continue burning their path across the heavens the recent events have brought changes to the Warriors and company. And a new path awaits them as the commanders of the 1st Regiment, the finest collection of soldiers in Selenia�s kingdom.
Vin_Da_DM: Meanwhile, Gale and Wraith walk along the ramparts on the castle walls. ~Do you think they�ll be ready?~ Gale asks, shifting his grey eyes to the blonde boy beside him. Wraith tilts his head, listening another faint whisper in the wind.
Vin_Da_DM: Wraith�s brown eyes seem to reflect the world as he looks at Gale he speaks, though soft his voice bears a heavy weight on it, �They must be. We see the dark wind blowing, the storm draws near, and those who will not stand to face it will be blown aside by it�s fury��
Vin_Da_DM: $ End