|
|
June 13, 2004 |
|
| Amber | Trump Deck | Logs | RL Pictures | Main |
Trump call...
The image of Dai is sitting near a campfire on a blanket. There are sounds of Indian music drifting through the night air from the distance. "Hello Yosannah."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah purses her lips and intones in your mind, "It has been a while. Not since that... conversation with you and Ryker."
The image of Dai nods. "I know. Some time now. You left in a hurry last we spoke. Anyway, I heard something that I wished to ask you about if you have a moment."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah swallows and nods. Her lips do not move though her voice a somber whisper in your mind, "Feel free."
The image of Dai says "I have heard rumours of you being attacked by Scott. Was this in regards to the attack I was witness to or did it happen again afterwards?"
To the image of Dai, Yosannah says "The attack you witnessed." She raises a brow, "You didn't linger there long enough to witness a tenth of what he tried to do. But to answer your question, yes. No doubt it is in references to what you witnessed." A pause, and then, "Why do you ask?"
The image of Dai says "Because I know why he did it and what the cause was. Just needed to know if it had happened again as if it happened again then it would raise other question on other issues."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah lets a smile escape her lips, it is crooked and only mildly charming, "Why? What do you mean, why he did it? Why did he tell you he did it?"
The image of Dai says "He is angry about many things. And frustrated. He is or was a friend of Ryker. Ryker is now host to War. He thinks that this was against Ryker's wishes. And then Ryker made that assault on the Church. I was witness to it. And his House Lord ordered him to bring Ryker in. That is what he said. I personally believe that the order wasn't directed strictly at Ryker. But still, he has done nothing since after a......chat."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah waves a hand, dismissively, "None of which has anything to do with me. Scott had best stay clear of my way."
The image of Dai says "Ah. But the way you make it sound to others, Scott is Magnus's tool. Which is untrue. Whatever happens between you two is your business. Not telling you what to do. I needed to know for other reasons."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah says "Somehow I doubt that either of us really know the truth. But I have my reasons for believing so, despite what you think."
The image of Dai says "And you won't tell me why? This is important."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah shakes her head, "I cannot. I'm sorry."
The image of Dai frowns. "Not knowing could put two children I care greatly for in danger Yosannah."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah says "And telling you could put me in danger, Dai." A knot forms at the center of her brow, "Six of one, half dozen of the other. Forgive me if my level of trust has run thin as of late.""
The image of Dai shakes his head. "You know Yosannah, that is complete bullshit. I was willing to put my life on the line for you and the others. But no matter. Trust is something that works both ways. If you cannot trust me, then I can no longer trust you. Which is unfortunate."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah shakes her head and her jaw works, slowly. She speaks through the contact for the first time, "I have shared with you more then most others /ever/ will. And yet, when it comes right down to it, you demean me by insulting my fears." Should he inspect her form further, he'll note that her fingers clench into a fist.
The image of Dai sighs. "I'm sorry. It was not my intention. I am just worried for the little ones." He rubs his forehead. "I guess that I'll just have to try my best with what I have. I apologize and did not mean to demean you. You know that I like and respect you as well as the others."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah nods at his, a single inclination of her chin. "You'll do fine. You always do."
The image of Dai shrugs. "I've managed not to get myself killed thus far." He smiles slightly. "But that's just because I'm lucky." The smile disappears and he says, "I'll have Scott watched and if anything suspicious happens, I'll let you know." He pauses. "Wait a second. There is a better way for me to know what I need. If you had two children you cared for greatly who might be at risk from Magnus, would you allow them to study at the Academy of Magic knowing that Scott is the Headmaster?"
To the image of Dai, Yosannah says "No."
The image of Dai nods. "That's all I needed to know. And again, I'm sorry for what I said."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah thinks for a moment and suggests, as if she had not heard his second apology, "... but then again, that might be a sure way to find out if your worries were justified." She wets her lips and intones, "What if you were to send two imposters. To test your theory?"
The image of Dai tilts his head. "That is possible I suppose. I will not allow Puck or Sorcha near the Academy but imposters might work."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah suggests, "Shifters."
The image of Dai nods. "That or I can shift two willing candidates to appear like them and send them there. That might be easier to do than trying to find two experienced shifters."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah says "Less risk if you find experienced shifters. Scott might be an idiot, but he is surrounded by some very talented people at that school."
The image of Dai nods. "I'll see what I can do. I might be able to find two. If not, I can be one and find another to play the second child."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah suggests, "Would that I were a shifter." She lifts her brows, quickly and coyly, and that charming crooked smile returns.
The image of Dai grins. "You mean you aren't? And here I thought beauty and deviousness had two faces."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah says "Touche." Her smiles fades and lingers lightly on her lips, "But on that note, I have ... things to attend to."
The image of Dai nods. "Certainly Yosannah. I'll give you a call if I find anything out. And probably before then to discuss some less pressing business. Serpent guard."
To the image of Dai, Yosannah says "Take care."
You break off the Trump contact.
Academy of Magic - Hall...
Scott appears with a card in one hand and a surf board under his other arm.
Plain in the way only secretaries and librarians can manage, Inyss is of medium height. Short brown hair and thin rim glasses. Maning his post at the front desk religiously, Inyss is middle-aged, sharp, and possess preternatural administrative assistant abilities. Knowledge about everything but the most arcane of subjects concerning the Academy, he's very helpful in dispensing information to visitors and members alike. He's also the personal secretary of the Headmistress and can set up appointments.
Yosannah is talking quietly with Inyss when Scott arrives in a flare of lightning and sound. She and the middle aged librarian turn their heads in unison to regard the head master and his surfing board. Inyss raises a scrutinous brow.
Scott stands at five feet eleven inces. Apparently he has been working out because his muscles have become toned and hard. He has emerald green eyes and sun tanned skin. His black hair is wet and it hangs down to just above his shoulders. A young handsome face he has and is usually quiet or as if always contemplating something. He wears a black wetsuit that clings to his muscular form like a second skin. The sleeves come down to his wrists, but the bottoms stop at mid thigh, giving an excellent show of his well toned legs. He is not armed at all unless you count the surf board under his arm. A rope leading from the board is attached to his ankle.
Scott lets out a soft breath and begins walking towards his office, trying to ignore Inyss' scrutiny. When he glances over finally, he catches sight of Yosannah and frowns slightly, but he doesn't say anything.
Inyss' glasses are precariously perched at the tip of his nose. He removes them and addresses the headmaster, "Frolicking out and about again, sir. Shall I direct the lady to return another time so that you might... ahem." He looks down the length of his nose at Scott, "Tidy yourself up?"
Yosannah tilts her head in an effort to get a better look at the headmaster. She raises a brow and her lips purse, curious.
Scott smirks. "It's called surfing, Inyss. And it's how I relax." He looks at Yosannah. "The lady can join me in the office when she's ready."
Yosannah looks to Inyss, seeking his final approval to follow after Scott.
Inyss waves a hand, dismissively, indicating that she should be off. He returns his glasses to his nose, turns his attention to the log book before him and begins to scribble.
The auburn haired woman turns toward Scott and follows after him.
Headmaster's Office...
Yosannah tugs at her earlobe as she inspects the room. Her gaze goes to the bookshelves that cover most of the walls. When she speaks, her voice is a mellow and smooth tenor, "Thank you for seeing me."
Scott takes the board and props it into a corner. Then he sits on the edge of his desk and takes on an impassive expression. "No problem. What can I do for you?"
Her attention remains fixed on the shelves and the numerous books therein. She tilts her head seeming to inspect the things as she speaks, "I've come to make a deal with you." At her wrist, a luminous white stone reflects in the soft warm light of the room.
Scott crosses his arms over his chest. "I'm listening."
"The experiments that the Princess and I have been working on these last few months..." She nears a shelf on the adjacent wall, pauses and squints to read the binding of a book, "...I take it you are still interested to know the details of the objects that came from our work."
Scott nods. "Yes, I am. But as I remember you were hell bent on keeping it from me for some reason."
Yosannah casts a glance over her shoulder and flashes a crooked smile for his benefit, "Yes. And we are now ready to present the things." She pauses to turn, fully, and regard him, "Publically. I would like to make it so that you might be there. Where we will disclose the purpose of the things. Does that interest you?"
Scott nods again. "It does. But why couldn't you tell me before now? What were you doing that you were willing to place everyone here in danger?"
Yosannah lifts a finger as if to hush his questions. "Danger. Never. Point in fact, the Princess would be highly offended to think that you thought her reckless and careless." She nods, a single inclination of her chin, "But, the answer to your question will come with the presentation, naturally. Otherwise I could have told you. But there is a catch. And this is part of the offer, you see."
Scott lets out a soft breath. "I swear you're the most stubborn woman I ever met with the exception of Demeter. What's the rest of your offer?"
"The offer is contingent on your agreement that the presentation shall be held here. In the great hallway of the Academy of Magic." She gestures behind her at the doorway that leads back down to the hall. "In the shadow that is at the center of all things. Tell me you don't think that is a fantastic idea."
Scott gets up off the desk and begins pacing around. "What's the catch?"
Yosannah tilts her head to regard him, crooked smile lingering on her lips, voice still a warm tenor, "There is no catch. I get what I want, you get what you want. I'm not as devious as you like to believe I am. Though I should thank you for the compliment."
Scott turns to face her. "When I was younger. I used to think you were pretty cool. Hell, I think I may have even had a crush on you at some point. Yosannah, I'll be honest. I don't trust you. I don't even like you very much. So, if you want to do your presentation here. I'm going to need some details. Like how dangerous is it going to be, and just who are you expecting to show up at this thing?"
Yosannah shrugs her shoulders, indifferent. "I don't expect there to be any danger... And I expect everyone to show up. There really would be no point of a public presentation if the public weren't represented. It's the key, in fact."
Scott steps up to her. "Then you have a deal, Yosannah."
Yosannah is all smiles, "Perfect."
Later, a trump call with Despil...
The image of Despil says "Yo. Despil."
To the image of Despil, Yosannah stands amidst a pasture of clover and wild flowers. Beside her, a white mare. She smiles at the sight of the Lord Sawall and intones without moving her lips, "I know."
The image of Despil smiles. "How are you? Am I disturbing?"
To the image of Despil, Yosannah says "Not at all." She holds out her hand, "Come join me."
You offer to pull Despil through.
Despil grasps your hand and you pull him through.
The mare bobs it's head, nostrils flaring as Despil appears in a shimmer. The Twilight sky above casts little light on the trio as the sun has since dipped below the treeline - leaving behind an orange, pink horizon.
She lifts her hand to the mare's neck, "Whoa...hey. Shhh."
Despil says quietly, "It's all right."
Yosannah casts an admiring, sidelong glance in the Lord's direction. She mutters, her voice mellow, "Oh, she's fine."
The creature dips it's head to the ground and a patch of clover, though it keeps an eye on Despil.
"What are you doing, Despil. Alone tonight?" Her smile is coy. "You Sawalls have a way of finding me when you've nothing else to do."
Despil nods to the mare, in deference to her. He's in her space. He smiles to Yo. "I'm not alone, I'm with you, silly."
Yosannah ahhs under her breath. "Silly me." She changes the topic expertly, "I just came from the Academy in Landen, actually."
Despil hmms. "Landen." Then he asks, "Where are we?"
Yosannah thumbs over her shoulder in the direction of the Inn, "Elbridge. Not too far from the Gideon Club. That, is Webber's."
Despil nods and says, "It kind of smelled like Banished Sun. Where's Landen? Nearby town?"
Yosannah strokes at the mare's neck, "No. Landen is a city in the shadow of Kryonia. The school there, the Academy of Magic, is run by Scott... a Hendrake, I believe. And owned by our good friend Ryker."
Despil says "Ah. Kryonia. I know that."
Despil looks over the mare. "She's a beaut."
Yosannah nods in agreement, "Mmmm."
The animal's ears twitch, seemingly aware that the couple is speaking of her. There is an intelligence in her eyes and something resembling understanding.
"Tell me what you've been up to, Despil. How are House affairs treating you."
Despil says "The house is good. Things are calm enough. I like that. Emily got married to her beau, finally. Dwight had his kid, a son, Emmitt."
Yosannah offers, "I didn't realize Dwight was married."
Despil says "He isn't. Those were separate events."
Her gaze remains fixed on the mare, "I see." She purses her lips, quietly, for a moment, "And what about you." The question suggests she knows part of the answer.
The pink skyline has darkened to a cold purple that blends into a black starlit night. The air is warm enough for summer, and comfortable.
Despil smiles broadly. "Doing amazingly well."
"You know I want details. Why the cat and mouse routine?"
Despil laughs. "Because I enjoy watching you dance instead of asking."
Yosannah exhales and plays along, "How is the Empress and your children, Despil. Tell me of that."
Despil says, "Children." He says, "The Empress is as beautiful as ever, and her eyes shine with silver sparkles. The children amaze me."
Yosannah regards him now, pensive. "And you amaze me."
Despil says "How so?"
Yosannah shakes her head and shrugs her shoulders. Rather then answer his question she poses one of her own, "And is marriage in your future then."
Despil replies, "I can but speculate."
Yosannah mutters under her breath, "... heh... Marriage." She smiles and wets her lips.
Despil says "What do you mean?"
Despil says "Have I offended you?"
Yosannah chuckles, "No. As if you could offend anyone, Despil. Somehow, it's just not your way." And then, "Marriage. I don't know. Somehow it has always escaped me. I dunno. Some people seem meant for it."
Despil shrugs. "I did it once before. I think it was good for me."
"Well then, by all means, what are you waiting for."
Despil says "A number of things."
Despil watches the mare eating grass and eyeing us.
Yosannah asks the obvious follow up question, "Like?"
Despil says "Imagine this if you will, Yo. Someone whom you've flirted with before tells you that you were lovers in the past. Now for you, that might be something that generates a laugh, but for me -- there are holes in my being. You could tell me I used to be Marie Antionette and I'd have to say, 'Tell me more.'"
Yosannah nods, "Well, I guess that answers my next question then."
Despil says "What's that question, anyway?"
"I was gonna ask how much of that time do you recall. And why you didn't think to contact me during all that time."
Despil says "We were lovers years and years ago. Before the Stryl rearranged my head. I'm happy enough she didn't want to complete the job."
Despil says "But why do you want to know whether we're to marry?"
Yosannah tucks a strand of hair behind her ear, "I don't understand. Why would she do that?
Despil says "Men live in fear of women being upset at their absence."
Yosannah considers this, "Really?" She nods as if the realization of this creed makes sense, "I'll have to file that away."
Despil shrugs and says, "Why am I being shotgunned with questions?"
Yosannah chuckles lightly, "For want of anything better to talk about at this point. Feel free to change the topic." Her arms go over her chest and she kicks a heel into the earth.
Despil shakes his head. "I was worried I'd upset you. No, 'Congratulations, Despil' or anything. Not even a 'Why didn't you tell me?' which frankly, I was expecting."
Yosannah lowers her gaze to the ground, "Well... truth be told, I had no idea whether or not this was a good thing from your perspective. I only know what I know from Bridget. Though, to be clear, I wasn't prying. It actually came up quiet unexpectently." She shrugs her shoulders and kicks again, "So, no congratulations. And as for why I didn't insist on knowing why you didn't tell me... I dunno. Maybe I don't have that much of a sense of entitlement where you are concerned. And your business is your own."
Despil hmms. He nods. "This has been wonderfully odd. Layers of an onion coming undone. A new surprise in a secret compatment of a box that was a gift. Oh, I have a girlfried from the past. Oh, she's fond of me. We have what? Aren't they adorable, and even like me. I keep waiting for the bolt of lightning or to wake up from the dream, sometime.
You say "Odd? Yeah, I suppose you could say that. But everyone that spend time in Avalon during that time had strange visions and happenings." She shivers in the night air though it is hardly cold tonight, "And I suppose they'll all have to be worked out."
Despil nods and says, "I suppose." He looks to you. "I almost brought her to the family dinner you were at, but thought it wasn't appropriate."
Despil says "She'll be at the next one."
Yosannah nods, "Well, enjoy it."
Despil says "You won't be there?"
Yosannah offers a light smile and shrugs her shoulders.
Despil says "Is my other brother being a flake, too?"
Yosannah keeps her gaze lowered but raises a brow and shrugs again. There is a quiet smile on her lips.
Despil says "I'll rattle him the next time I see him. I think you're good for him."
Yosannah's smile is thoughtful, "Well, in any event, thank you for the compliment."
Despil reaches for you. "Yo. You're one of the few people I'd risk my life for. You're a friend."
Yosannah nods, appreciative for certain but somber. She lets her gaze to to the Inn where soft candle light passes through the windows. She exhales, "Well then, come inside and share a glass of wine with me before we call it a night."