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* Michelle unlocks the door and proclaims, "Hall's Open!" * Michelle returns behind the bar. She is wearing her pink dress with petticoats and a white apron. * Zoya enters, carrying a smallish bag tied shut with what appears to be gold wire. "Good evening, all!" She heads for the bar. * Marta hears Michelle's call and pokes her head out of the office door, forgetting for the moment that it was closed. <Michelle> Hello Zoya. <Michelle> What would you care for this evening? <Zoya> Michelle, I'd like a mug of the purest water you've got, please. <Michelle> Marta, you might want to open the door. We don't want to scare any new customers that come by. * Jaret saunters in through the open door, clad in his usual finery. "Well met and good evening, everyone!" <Marta> Oh....my apologies, truly... * Marta pulls her head back in. The door opens, and she walks out into the common room. * Michelle picks up the mugs and examines the taps for a few moments, "I can make it purer for you than I'll ever get out of these taps. How pure do you need it?" * Zoya carefully untwists the gold wire and begins removing gadgetry from the bag. * Michelle turns her head, "Good evening Jaret. The usual?" <Zoya> ::without looking up:: As close to perfect as it will get. No sense tainting the experiment. * Jaret walks up to the bar. "Good evening Zoya, Michelle. A pleasure. Yes, please, Michelle." ::turns to Marta, a slightly confused expression on his face:: "Good evening. I don't think we've really met yet. My name is Jaret Malkier." ::he doffs his hat and bows to her:: * Michelle fills the mug with water from a tap, "I'll be back in a minute or two." Michelle disappears into the kitchen. * Lisl saunters in through the back door, a huge deer slung over her shoulders, and tries without success to open the latch on the icebox. "Ummm....could someone give me a hand in here?" <Lisl> Michelle! You're a godsend! Open this, please? <Marta> ::smiles at the charming, mannered gentleman:: I am Marta. I'm...staying here for a time. * Michelle opens the icebox for Lisl, "Let me guess, you still have a key as well." <Jaret> Marta. A lovely name. It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance. <Lisl> No, it was unlocked. Really! <Michelle> Lisl, do you mind not opening that door, ::points to the door leading to the rest of the Hall:: until I'm done here? * Marta blushes prettily and curtseys in the old fashion. <Xarroch> ::The door opens, and a massive mountain of a man works his way through the door with some effort. His clothes are mismatched, rough and ill fitting, and to top it off, they're not fastened properly. He lumbers over to the bar, but there's something that seems a bit wrong about the way he's walking:: <Lisl> ::shrugs:: Not a problem. What are you doing? Can I help? <Xarroch> ::in a very deep voice:: Good evening! * Zoya is absorbed in setting up her magical junk. * Xarroch looks around the room and chuckles in a deep rumble * Marta looks up at the man's entrance and gasps involuntarily, moving a little closer to Jaret. * Jaret looks over, and tenses his shoulders for a moment. "Good evening, Xarroch. How have your travels been?" He is visibly working on keeping himself relaxed. <Xarroch> ::grins:: No need to be frightened, little ::squints at Marta:: ...ghost. I won't do anything to you. * Marta looks at Jaret, eyes wide. "You know him?" <Marta> I...I won't go with you. I've not fulfilled my vow yet, you can't take me! <Xarroch> Hello, Jaret. I have not seen you for a while. How went that little trip of yours? * Michelle steps out the back door for a moment, then an elderly oriental man walks bag in, "The simple minded twit wants me to make E-pure water for the maniac in the tower." Waves his hand over the mug, muttering a few words. <Xarroch> ::looks somewhat puzzled at Marta:: I'm not here to collect anything or anyone. I'm not even part of the "structure" any more. What vow is this you speak of? <Michelle> ::The mug doesn't seem to mind at first then begins waddling around, clearly in some discomfort.:: * Lisl watches bemusedly, eyebrows raised. E-pure water? And you are...? <Jaret> ::to Xarroch:: It went... well. About as well as could be expected. <Michelle> ::The mug finally spits out a cracked and dirty crystal, a profound look of relief on its face.:: <Xarroch> I notice you have a new little weapon. Is that what you were after? <Marta> ::narrows her eyes at Xarroch, obviously thinking:: Not part...but how could you not be? You are a demon. Your nature is to be "part of the structure," as you say. <Michelle> ::The man's form ripples for a moment then settles back in Michelle's usual features.:: <Xarroch> ::deep, DEEP belly laugh:: And may a being not work against it's "nature", then? <Jaret> ::to Marta:: He won't take you anywhere. ::looks at Xarroch:: Trust me. * Lisl reaches for the crystal, hand hovering over it, hesitant to touch it until she knows what it is:: * Xarroch grins at Jaret * Michelle picks of the mug and heads out into the common room, gently consoling the mug. <Marta> ::still wary:: Work against it, yes, but rarely betray it. And I would trust you, Milord Malkier, but you are only mortal... * Zoya looks up from her apparatus. "Xarroch!" Somehow, she manages the near-impossible syllables. <Lisl> Be out in a moment, Michelle... <Xarroch> Hello, Zoya. You finally managed to say my name properly! Can you do it again? * Lisl takes a moment to heft the deer onto her shoulder again, and from there onto a hook in the huge ice-box. "I swear this thing is larger than it looks from the outside..." <Zoya> ::frowns at X and says the name again, slower:: It took me a week of study to get it right. I'm not about to forget it now. * Michelle places the mug in front of Zoya. "Let me see, Jaret wanted Arabellan Red. Xarroch, I suppose you'll be wanting mulekick, and Lisl will definitely need a mug when she comes out." <Zoya> ::smiles widely at Michelle:: Thank you! I hope it wasn't too much trouble. <Xarroch> ::to Marta:: I can be trusted. Whether or not you choose to do so is up to you. ::his shrug moves a massive amount of flesh, and is like watching a large animal settle to the ground:: <Michelle> Not at all Zoya. * Michelle fills a wine glass for Jaret then leaves the glass and the bottle on the bar in front of him. <Xarroch> Of course, little Michelle! * Michelle then selects a mug and carefully fills it with mulekick. <Xarroch> Why is it called mule kick anyway? <Xarroch> ::laughs at Zoya:: It's not all that important. If you were one of my minions, I'd have beaten you until you got it right, but you're a friend. * Michelle gently sets the mug on the bar in front of Xarroch, "Remember how dangerous this stuff is to mortals Xarroch. As for it's name, I have no idea. Perhaps you can ask Lisl when she's done in the kitchen." <Xarroch> ::tosses back the mug of mule kick:: Lisl? Is there yet another person coming around here? * Zoya unwraps a crystal dish from several layers of fine-woven silk and sets it on the counter. After tinkering with it for a few minutes, she carefully pours a little of the water into the dish. The sound of the water splashing into the dish makes a sound like the chime of purest crystal. * Lisl hearing the question from the kitchen as she comes out through the door, drying her hands on a towel. "It's called mule kick because it feels like one. Some say it's because it tastes like something a mule's been walking on all day." * Michelle fills another mug with mulekick and sets the lightly less nervous than the one that got handed to Xarroch mug down on the bar in front of an empty stool. <Zoya> ::blinking in astonishment:: Lovely. Michelle, how much of this water can you make at a time? I could use it by the gallon. <Xarroch> I think a mule kicked me once. Unfortunately for the mule, I noticed the irritation. ::smiles widely:: It made a nice snack, at least. * Lisl takes a seat on the stool as she looks at the big man perched precariously at the bar, noting his drink of choice. "Ah, you must be Xarroch." [the name sounds like a growl] <Xarroch> I am. * Xarroch sizes up Lisl <Xarroch> And who are you, little half-elf? <Lisl> [sizes me up? Ummm....I'm about a fourth of one of him.] Lisl Ferinsdottir. Perhaps you've heard of me, where you come from. ::she smiles, showing her teeth:: * Michelle frowns, "I had to exchange some favors for that much. You'll have to negotiate with Yamato if you want that much." <Xarroch> ::shakes his head:: Nope. We're to bust where I came from to worry about trifles on *this* plane. <Zoya> Mm. It's worth thinking about. When would be a good time to call on.. Yamato? to discuss the matter? <Lisl> Yamato? Is that the elderly gentleman I met earlier...today, Michelle? * Zoya begins tinkering with the gadgets, putting them together. <Xarroch> What is this trinket you are working on, Zoya? <Lisl> ::with an edge to her voice:: Funny, the demons *I* met were pretty concerned with affairs on *this* plane. <Zoya> ::answers Xarroch without looking up:: It measures disturbances in the median ether layer where it meets the phlogiston. <Xarroch> ::smiles at Lisl for a moment:: I wonder what they did wrong to be sent here? ::looks around:: At least they aren't around to cause me any trouble now. <Michelle> Michelle thinks, then pulls a scrap of paper and the stub of a pencil from beneath the bar. "Try two hours after high sun at this address." Hands the paper to Zoya. <Michelle> ::To Lisl:: yes. <Zoya> ::absently stuff the paper in her sleeve:: Thanks, Michelle. <Xarroch> Their concerns are none of mine, especially now. ::grins in a predatory way:: <Lisl> Sent here? They seemed to have no problem getting back and forth on their own. And no, they're not around to get in your way. My friends and I took care of that. ::glancing over her shoulder at Sealgair's blackened swords, brow furrowing for a moment:: <Xarroch> Just as well, then! They deserved to be slain if they could not do what they were sent for, anyway. <Lisl> ::muttering as she takes a sip of 'kick:: Figures you'd see it that way.... <Xarroch> Of course! Survival of the fittest! But I have learned some other ways of doing things. Strength comes in many forms. * Zoya's contraption looks like... Like... [Like a very miniature version of Augra's observatory in _The_Labyrinth_, actually.] <Jaret> [dark crystal] <Xarroch> [was just about to say that...] <Zoya> [ERK! ACK! I can't believe I did that!] <Jaret> [we'll have to watch both movies before you can go to sleep tonight. only recourse] Zoya: [lol] <Lisl> Aye, it does. Is that why your companions outside of town are behaving so...untraditionally? <Xarroch> ::eyes narrow:: *What* "companions"? <Michelle> Michelle shakes her head, "Figures a demon just gates into the center of town rather than walking in. There are lots of little minions encircling the town and running like hell whenever anyone gets too close to them." <Lisl> Ahh, you *must* be out of touch. ::dryly:: You've not heard of the demons that have been popping up at the edge of town, and fleeing at anyone's approach? * Zoya suspends the contraption very delicately over the crystal dish, and begins fussing with exact alignments. * Marta wanders over towards Zoya, bending to inspect the contraption. "It's beautiful!" <Zoya> ::smiles at Marta:: Thank you. <Xarroch> ::with a look of concentration, Xarroch goes to the door, open it, and stick his head out, seeming almost to sniff the air:: <Xarroch> ::looks carefully at Michelle and Lisl:: You are certain? <Michelle> You've seen me fight demons. You think I can't tell when one's spying on me. <Lisl> You can't smell the brimstone? <Marta> But...what IS it? In Common, please? <Xarroch> Ha! Someone clever is in charge, then. <Lisl> Someone clever? Gods spare us. The *last* one was clever enough. <Zoya> It... It detects psionic phenomena. <Xarroch> ::musing:: I wonder if it's Q'Rctl'Starg? He's a crafty one... <Marta> Detects psionic phenomena? ::puzzles:: Oh, like Tyl? <Zoya> Or at least, it *seems* to. It's hard to get test subjects. Yes, like Tyl. Well, more like Tyl's powers - she herself is most emphatically NOT a psionic phenomenon. <Xarroch> This must be another trap for me! HA HA! Maybe tonight will be the night I die, then. Michelle, another "mule kick", then! * Michelle refills the mug and sets it on the bar, then turns to listen to one of the wine glasses. <Michelle> What makes you so certain the traps for you? <Lisl> They've been interested in this place for decades, after all. ::nodding agreement with Michelle:: <Xarroch> Who else would it be for? ::tosses back the kick, and puts the jittery mug back on the bar:: <Xarroch> Would any of you like to join me at the end of the evening, then? It promises to be a fun exercise! <Michelle> Oh my. Well you be sure to tell me or Zoya if anything like that happens again. * Jaret glares at Xarroch, and starts ticking off on his fingers "Moon Dancer, Jelarthna, Drach, Grigoriy, Bai... do I have to go on?" <Lisl> ::takes another sip of 'kick:: You just don't get the concept of alcohol, do you? I admit it took me awhile, but.... <Lisl> ::eyes light:: Drach! You're right, Drach should be here...with his luck, he's down vacationing again. ::grinning oddly:: Bet it's off-season. <Xarroch> Perhaps, but I know they are actively hunting me now. You don't understand the level of hate involved here. <Xarroch> What is this "concept of alcohol"? * Zoya finishes fussing and reaches into the near-empty bag and retrieves a long rod of amber. She *very* gingerly floats the amber in the water. <Lisl> ::taking another sip:: I'm not sure I'd agree with that.... <Xarroch> Truly? Then I pity you, little half-elf. <Lisl> Alcohol...it isn't just for breakfast. ::chuckling to herself:: Sorry, something MD used to say... <Lisl> ::glaring at Xarroch:: I don't need pity from demonspawn. <Michelle> I have to close up this evening, but I'd be more than interested in hearing about it all later. * Marta watches Zoya interestedly. <Xarroch> Ha! What I choose to give is what I choose to give. Your acceptance does not really matter. <Lisl> Closing? Already? <Zoya> ::without looking up, to X:: How many demons are we talking about, here? <Xarroch> ::shrugs:: I can't tell. They've hidden themselves from me. <Lisl> ::raising a eyebrow over the rim of her mug:: Arrogant bastard, aren't you? <Michelle> No. I was just explaining that I won't be able to join Xarroch's little party this evening. Just as well, I still have nightmares from the last party I went to with him. <Lisl> ::looking over to Zoya:: I've encountered seven, all fairly low-powered. <Xarroch> That is alright, Michelle. I'll be sure to tell you about it if I survive. * Jaret looks queryingly at Xarroch. "Do you have any idea where Jelarthna is? Usually you two are together." <Xarroch> ::to Lisl:: Does it matter? I am what I am. <Lisl> ::pauses in the act of taking a drink to stare at Xarroch for a long, silent moment:: <Xarroch> No, I have not seen him for some time. He's probably off getting into trouble again. ::smiles:: * Zoya begins to murmur softly over her setup. The thin wires arching over the water begin to glow slightly, and to move. After a few rotations, they settle on a configuration that seems stable. * Xarroch meets Lisl's gaze evenly <Lisl> ::stares into his eyes a few moments more:: Yes...you are, aren't you? <Lisl> ::murmured almost to herself:: <Xarroch> I am only what I am. No apologies, no regrets. * Lisl sets her mug down and reaches up a hand to pinch the bridge of her nose, rubbing it gently as she smiles:: Aye. <Zoya> Zoya begins a different chant, and very slowly, the amber rod begins to rotate. It picks up speed after a few revolutions, and then wildly begins to swing back and forth erratically, its motion becoming more and more frenetic until Zoya finally frowns and speaks a few rapid words that cease its motion. She folds herself into a chair, staring at her contraption and muttering quietly under her breath. * Marta watches with interest, stepping back quickly when the rod seems about to upset the whole contraption. * Lisl starts to laugh, softly. * Xarroch moves his hands in a surprisingly delicate way and begins a low chant for a few moments. Delicate green strands of light trail from his fingers, forming a pattern in the air, and an aura of peace settles over the bar. <Zoya> ::looks up at Marta, then starts laughing:: Of course. <Xarroch> ::grins:: Just in case! * Zoya levels a finger at Marta. "You, my dear, are essentially a psionic phenomenon, yourself." * Lisl shakes her head as she leans over the bar weakly, still laughing. It's...I never thought how easy it was. <Xarroch> ::looks at Marta with interest:: <Zoya> ::grinning:: At least it detected you. I'll have to try it again when you aren't around. * Marta points at herself, eyes widening. "Me? What did I do?" <Marta> I hope I've not upset your experiment! <Zoya> ::turns to Xarroch:: I've been cooped up in my lab for weeks. I'll help you spring the trap. If it is, indeed, a trap for you. <Xarroch> ::looks over at Lisl now:: What do you speak of? ::a small hint of concern:: Are you alright? <Zoya> ::to Marta:: No, it seems fine. It was just overwhelmed by your presence and wasn't sure which direction to point in. <Xarroch> ::changes gears quickly and smiles at Zoya:: Excellent! * Lisl waves away his concern with an idle hand, trying to get her laughter under control. * Michelle fiddles with her earring, staring at the bar where Xarroch's pattern appeared, then shifting her gaze to Lisl. <Xarroch> ::me whacks Zoya on the back, causing her to stagger slightly:: We will show them a thing or two, then! * Marta blushes. "I'm overwhelming?" * Jaret grins at Marta. "Easily." <Zoya> ::grins:: On a psionic level, certainly. <Lisl> ::getting control of herself:: * Michelle giggles, "Hopefully Yousef will feel that way." * Marta's blush deepens. <Xarroch> So what is your story, little ghost? When did you show up? And what are those vows you spoke of? <Zoya> ::turns around and glares briefly at Xarroch.:: I'll thank you to remember that I'm not built like a stone guardpost. * Marta looks up at Michelle, her eyes clouding for a moment. "I...I hope." <Xarroch> Ah! I'll have to remember that! You certainly look solid enough. ::grins at Zoya:: <Michelle> ::To Marta:: We can only wait and see. <Marta> My name is Marta, not "little ghost." ::with some asperity:: I came here some three weeks agone, I believe...::looks at Michelle for confirmation:: * Lisl takes a sip of 'kick, smiling faintly as she eyes Xarroch, a new look in her eye. * Michelle thinks back, "I've had a lot on my mind recently but three or four weeks sounds about right, maybe five even." <Xarroch> Ha! Marta it is, then. ::grins widely:: <Marta> That long? Ah, well, anyroad... <Michelle> Lisl, I think that should be your last mug of mulekick this evening. <Marta> I've been ::nodding out the window:: across the way there, for some time. <Zoya> ::sighs, then shrugs:: What tactics do you advise for the evening, then? Shall you lure them into a trap of our devising? They don't seem to be taking the usual bait. <Lisl> ::grinning at Michelle:: Cutting me off, are you? I'm perfectly sober, I assure you. Perhaps more in my senses that I've been for some time. <Xarroch> ::to Marta:: How did you make it over here then? <Xarroch> ::to Zoya:: You mean other than "slaughter them like the manes they are?" <Marta> ::levelly, getting used to the idea:: I was murdered there. I was only able to come here when Jel and Tyl, two of the patrons here, retrieved a shingle from the building. <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: *YOU* are the one who thinks something with half a thought in its head is in charge. * Michelle smiles at Lisl, "That's what everyone says right before they drive their car up the wrong side of the road. But since you don't have a car I guess it's alright." * Xarroch lets loose a deep, rumbling belly laugh. <Lisl> ::brow furrowing:: What's a car? And truly, I'm alright. Very alright. <Xarroch> ::to Marta:: Truly, Jelarthna has a talent for finding the oddest things. <Marta> When a piece of my prison came here, I was able to follow. ::a smile of remembered victory crosses her face:: <Marta> Am I odd then, sir? <Xarroch> ::to Zoya:: I am but teasing you, Zoya. <Michelle> A car is a marvelous invention meant to help transport goods and people over long distances quickly. Unfortunately they became a way to poison the air and make sure no one walks more than the distance from one side of their house to the other. <Zoya> ::shrugs:: What, then, do you propose? <Xarroch> No, it is more that Jelarthna seems to find all of the out-of the ordinary things in the area somehow. <Lisl> Oh. I think. <Lisl> But no, it's not the 'kick. I just...I realized something, and I finally understood something I've been puzzling about for hun-- ::clears her throat:: many years, now. <Xarroch> That would depend. Is anyone else going to join us, or do Zoya and I get to have all of the fun? <Marta> So that is how I came here. * Xarroch looks around <Lisl> I'd gladly join you, if you can pardon me for my earlier remarks. * Jaret looks at Xarroch. "I'll go with you." <Xarroch> ::scrutinizes Marta:: You didn't answer my other question. * Michelle shakes her head at Xarroch, then turns to Lisl, "You'll have to share that thought with me sometime." <Lisl> ::beams a smile at Jaret:: It will be good to fight beside you again, old friend. * Jaret glares at Xarroch. "She doesn't have to." <Marta> Other question? ::looks puzzled:: <Xarroch> ::grins at Lisl:: If I can pardon them? ::laughs again:: Why should I not? <Jaret> ::to Lisl, grinning:: I feel the same. <Xarroch> ::to Jaret:: It will be good to see you in action. Jelarthna has spoken much of your skill. I almost got a taste of it the night we met, and I admit I'd like to see what I missed. <Lisl> Why not, indeed? ::grinning:: Aye, I'll share it with you, Michelle...::glancing around the bar:: tho' actually, there's little to stop me from talking of it here, now. <Jaret> ::laughing:: I was so wounded that night, I was barely holding the blade off the ground. * Michelle shakes her head, "Should I send messengers to your various places of residence and inform them that the lot of you will be unable to keep your meals down or sleep through the night for the next several days? <Zoya> ::blinks at Michelle:: Eh? <Lisl> ::raises an eyebrow:: And what would we do that for? I never get ill! ::looks affronted:: Well, almost never... * Michelle points at Xarroch, "I still have nightmares about what he did to that last group of demons." <Xarroch> ::laughs with Jaret:: Yes, but your determination alone was powerful enough. Have you ever though about visiting the Blood Wars, just for fun? <Lisl> ::laughing:: Truly? This *will* be amusing, then. <Lisl> ::winks at Michelle:: You don't think my stomach would be that weak, do you? You know how *I* eat. <Xarroch> ::looks at Marta again:: So what is this oath of yours? No one will be able to help you fulfill it if you don't tell them what it is. <Xarroch> ::sizes up Lisl again:: And what do you eat? <Jaret> ::to Xarroch:: The Blood Wars? Sounds rather messy. I don't think I've ever even heard of it... <Marta> My oath? Ah, that was your second question! I had promised my love that I would meet him here, and that we would run away together. My death kept me from our appointment, but I *shall* keep it. <Xarroch> ::to Jaret:: It is a constant battle spanning the first level of several of the outer planes. I did have many a great fight there. ::looks nostalgic:: <Lisl> [she's still the same size!] I'm a meat-and-potatoes sort of girl. Light on the potatoes. ::grinning ferally:: <Xarroch> ::to Marta:: And how will you keep it? You are a ghost, after. Will he be forced to carry this "piece of your prison" with him? <Marta> Battle? You fight amongst yourselves, as well? Or are you fighting the paladins who come to challenge your kind? <Xarroch> ::flashed a similar grin at Lisl:: How picky are you? <Jaret> Ah! Another plane! Sorry to say, I've only ever been to Faerun, and the place I was born. And, well, wherever it was that I was thrown through from there to here. But I don't think that counts much.... <Marta> ::shakes her head:: I know not. I only know that I *must* meet Yousef here, and then we may go off together, and I shall be released. <Lisl> Not terribly...tho' I don't like it overdone. <Xarroch> We fought everything that was there, be it other demons, devils, or whatever else wandered through. <Lisl> ::chuckles:: I believe Drach is fond of the lower levels, himself. <Xarroch> ::to Jaret:: You're not from Faerun, then? How interesting. <Xarroch> ::to Lisl:: I don't know this Drach, but there is a great deal of variety up where the battle rages thickest. And the most... opportunities. <Lisl> Drach is a paladin of Clangeddin. You're alive, so I doubt you've met him. About so high, long beard, axe? ::holds her hand about three or four feet off the floor:: <Xarroch> He sounds like fun! I have not met him, however. <Lisl> ::grinning:: You *do* have a deathwish, don't you? <Xarroch> What good is life if it isn't interesting? <Lisl> [btw, there's apparently no trace of Lisl's former animosity toward Xarroch] True...but there are many ways of making life interesting. <Marta> ::reaches out a tentative finger, looking at Zoya for permission, and strokes the amber bar with a finger:: Oooh, it's WARM! <Xarroch> Perhaps, but demons have simple pleasures, after all. And I am still a demon! <Lisl> ::grinning:: Simple pleasures, simple minds. Or is it the other way around? ::dryly:: Aye, I'd not forgotten. <Xarroch> Ha! Something like that, yes. ::grins back:: <Lisl> So...any tips on demon-killing you'd like to share? I've only done three, myself, and they were a mite stronger than those boys out there. * Jaret suddenly notices his abandoned wine goblet, picks it up, and drains half of it in a long swallow. "Ah..." <Michelle> Last call everyone. * Zoya fishes a vial out of one sleeve and carefully pours the remaining pure water into it. <Xarroch> There will be tougher ones. They are after me, and I can wade through those little peons all day. <Zoya> ::catching Michelle's eye:: Two hours past noon. <Jaret> ::to Lisl:: Fight to maim. If they can't see you, or they're missing an arm, they're that much weaker. <Michelle> Correct. <Xarroch> I tend to go straight for the killing blows. ::flexes an arm and smiles:: <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: I still think there's something brewing against the Hall again...there have been unusual visitors...well, more unusual than normal. ::grinning wryly:: <Xarroch> The tougher ones... they're wily. It's best to stay on top of them so that they cannot summon aid or use any of their special powers. <Zoya> I'll need to stop by the Tower before we go hunting. I don't want to chance damaging this ::gestures at the contraption she is dismantling:: and I'd like to pick up an item or two as well. <Xarroch> One more mule kick then, Michelle! <Lisl> ::shrugs:: I can go for the eyes. And I'm familiar with "wily." ::pushes down the shoulder of her shirt, exposing a nasty purplish wound on her left shoulder:: * Jaret looks down at the single blade at his side and sighs quietly. * Michelle refills Xarroch's mug before it has a chance to run away and places it on the bar in front of him. <Xarroch> Easy enough, Zoya. I hope you don't mind if I wait a distance away. Your Tower still makes me uneasy. <Lisl> ::drains her 'kick:: Give me a mist of the peaks, Michelle. A big one. * Xarroch tosses back the mule kick <Michelle> Mug, pot, or bucket Lisl? <Zoya> ::noticing Jaret's sigh:: Not all of us are as masterful as you, my lord - we feel the need of power to assist us. ::smiling:: <Lisl> ::raises an eyebrow at Jaret:: Need another, Jaret? <Xarroch> ::looks at Lisl's scar:: Nice one! That must have been a fight to remember! <Lisl> Heh. Pot, please. <Zoya> ::shrugs at Xarroch:: Wait wherever you like. Where would you like me to meet you? * Michelle disappears into the kitchen. <Lisl> Aye, it was. It's the only one I've kept, actually. <Xarroch> I can wait nearby. <Zoya> Fine. <Jaret> ::to Lisl:: I suppose I'll get by. I had a couple impressive "loaners" the last time something like this happened. But I should be fine with just the one. I'll just try not get in quite as much over my head as usual. ::grins:: <Xarroch> I won't shed my poor disguise until we get out of the town. I would not want to give all of the scared little humans nightmares. ::grins:: <Xarroch> I'll stay just a hundred yards away from the Tower. <Lisl> Stay a moment...would an elven longsword do for you, Jaret? <Zoya> ::nods:: Whatever suits you. * Michelle returns with a pot and begins filling it with Mist of the Peaks. <Jaret> ::to Lisl:: Well... I'll admit, I'd feel a little better if I had both hands full. * Michelle places the pot on the bar in front of Lisl, "Here you go." <Lisl> ::looks at Xarroch with an oddly amused smile:: And I'll meet you there as well, Zoya. I should...take care of something alone before we fight. <Zoya> It shouldn't take me more than a minute or two to stow this and grab my sword, a ring or two, and a wand from the storeroom. <Lisl> My thanks. I'll be back in a moment. <Lisl> ::takes a quick sip and races upstairs:: <Michelle> [Mist grants one pip of celerity per sip. :) ] <Jaret> [LOL] <Xarroch> ::takes a moment to walk over to Marta, and looks down at her:: Good luck fulfilling your oath, then. I would suggest you tell the people helping you what will happen whatever it may be, so that they won't be surprised and understand what they're working for. <Lisl> ::after a bit of cursing in Elvish and some banging noises, Lisl returns with a long, think bundle wrapped in black oilcloth:: * Marta looks up at the towering figure and manages a nod. "They've...they never asked." * Jaret looks curiously at the bundle, eager to see what emerges from it. <Lisl> ::crosses to Jaret, unrolling it as she walks:: I oiled it well before storing it, it should be fine... <Xarroch> Perhaps they don't know to ask? How many ghosts did you come across while you were alive? <Lisl> ::perches on a stool, unwinding the oilcloth:: * Jaret moves over next to Lisl. <Zoya> [Ah... A fine sword is possibly the only thing that Jaret looks upon with undisguised lust...] ;) <Xarroch> [LOL] * Marta looks chagrined. "Aye...none that I knew of, at least." <Marta> [besides you, of course. ^_^] <Zoya> [JARET looks upon no woman with visible lust! At least, not until she asks him to!] <Michelle> [LOL] <Xarroch> ::grins at Marta:: Well, then! Secret can be important, but not when they will shock or hurt a friend. <Zoya> ::finishes packing her things and re-twists the gold wire closure to the bag:: Well then. Shall we begin? * Lisl unwinds the last turn of oilcloth, revealing a slim, well-used longsword and an empty sheath tucked in beside it. The sword has a small nick taken out of the plain pommel, but is otherwise in excellent condition. The edge fairly hums with keenness...it is obviously a magical blade. <Marta> Indeed. I simply had not thought. When Jel returns, I shall be sure to talk to him. <Xarroch> ::his tone becomes more clear, even, and paced; almost like a chant:: May you find your rest. * Jaret cocks his head slightly to the side and smiles at the sword. "Lisl, it's *beautiful*." <Marta> ::with a sad smile:: I'd be happy simply to find my love again... <Xarroch> ::looks at the sword:: Nice sticker! I'm ready to go! <Lisl> [:P Michelle! ^_^] Thanks. I think she'll do well enough for you. * Jaret reaches out and takes the sheath from Lisl, and begins to belt it on. <Xarroch> Rest assured, little Marta, if Jelarthna is helping you, he'll work things out one way or another. <Lisl> ::grasping the sword by the hilt, she flourishes it and, in a quick reversal, offers the hilt to Jaret over her arm:: <Jaret> ::to Lisl, still looking down at the buckles and straps of the sheath:: Does she have a name? <Zoya> I'll meet you outside the Tower, then, Xarroch? <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: Nay, she's not quite to *that* point. I've dealt with sentient blades...you can keep them, for all of me! <Xarroch> I shall be waiting! * Jaret reaches out and takes the gently takes the blade from Lisl. <Lisl> This was my blade before I came here...before Sealgair gifted me with...::grinning:: ..well, with what I use now. <Zoya> See you all shortly, then! :;waves as she departs:: <Jaret> ::grins at Lisl:: I see. Well, I'm sure it's been generously tested then! <Xarroch> And what do you use now? * Jaret slides the sword into the sheath, and with a bit of cord from a pouch, wraps an pathetic-looking peaceknot around the hilt. "Very well. I'm ready." <Lisl> Aye, it has indeed. She's a good blade. Sorry about the nick in the pommel, couldn't be helped. ::grinning:: I'd be honored if you'd use her. She doesn't get out enough anymore these days. <Xarroch> I'm sure it will taste plenty tonight! ::laughs:: * Xarroch reaches into a pocket and unceremoniously dump a large handful of assorted change and junk onto the counter. * Lisl lifting her pot of Mist in one hand, she raises the other hand in a fist. The air shimmers around her forearm and coalesces from a bright mist into a shining, silver, rune-worked bracer, with four long, wickedly-pointed "claws" extending from the wrist over her hand. "These." * Jaret quickly swoops up his goblet and downs the last of the wine. "'Twould be a crime to let it go to waste..." * Michelle shakes her head and starts sorting the money from the junk, pulling a knife from beneath the bar when she notices just what SOME of the junk is. <Xarroch> ::looks over the claws that appeared:: Very nice! Why don't you show me how well they work, then? * Lisl tilts her head back and drains the pot. When she lowers it again, her eyes glow dimly with a tinge of yellow. * Xarroch motions towards the door. * Michelle shakes her head, "Have fun." <Lisl> I shall indeed. Have patience. I'll meet you at the tower. Just don't attack me when you see me, please. * Lisl drops her arm, and the claws vanish again. * Jaret holds his arm out to Lisl. "Ready?" <Xarroch> HA! Don't worry about that, I almost never attack friends. <Lisl> Indeed. ::giving Michelle a jaunty salute as she takes Jaret's arm formally, as if he were going to lead her out onto the dancefloor at a royal ball. * Jaret strides out of the Hall, Lisl at his side, grinning merrily. <Xarroch> Too bad you have to Miss out, Michelle! I'll save you a souvenir! <Marta> I'll help you close, Michelle. * Xarroch works his way out the door. <Michelle> Please, don't. * Lisl chuckles and walks out with Jaret. * Michelle shoos the mugs and glasses into the kitchen, the corks the wine bottle and puts it back on the shelf. * Michelle picks up Lisl's pot and takes it into the kitchen, "Marta, could you be a dear and dim the lamps please." * Marta nods and goes around the room, turning down lamps and blowing out the ones on the tables. * Michelle returns from the kitchen and pours herself a mug of juice from the taps. * Michelle travels to the door and locks it before depositing herself in one of the comfy chairs. * Marta banks the fire by leaning over and breathing on it. <Michelle> What was it like when you died Marta? <Marta> ::me looks up with a troubled expression:: It was...horrible. Not an experience I would recommend to anyone. ::smiling without humor:: <Michelle> How did you manage to come back? * Michelle sips her juice and stares through Marta into the fire. <Marta> ::taking a seat at a table near Michelle, smoothing her hands over her skirt, staring at a faraway point.:: I...I don't really know. I don't think I ever really "left" other than to leave my body. * Michelle sips her juice, "What made Yousef so special?" <Marta> It was as if the knife parted me in two...my body fell to the ground, and I stepped away from it and tried to run...the wall of the house stopped me. * Michelle shakes her head, "I hope it's that simple." <Marta> He's...::a dreamy look in her eyes:: It sounds like a poet's cliche, but he was my own true love.... <Marta> I felt safe with him, and powerful, as though I could do anything. <Marta> I never thought I would leave Marsember, but when I was with him I felt I could travel the world. * Michelle sighs, "I remember feeling that way." <Marta> ::shakes her head:: I had never felt this way with anyone...he was...I thought I was whole, until I met him, and knew that a great part of me had been missing the whole while. * Michelle drinks deeply, "So did I." <Marta> But...why did you leave him? <Michelle> I had two choices, I could stay with him and be his wife, or I could kill him and save a great many people a great deal of suffering. <Marta> You...::looking relieved that she's already sitting down, although her form flickers slightly:: You...killed him? * Michelle looks straight into the fire, the hand not holding the mug clenched into a fist, "Yes. He screamed for hours. Those beautiful features twisted in agony...So strong......so certain........." <Marta> ::trembling as she lifts a hand to smooth a lock of hair away from her eyes:: You... you... ::putting her hand back in her lap:: I don't know what I would have done if it were Yousef. I... I think I could not have done it. Not my Yousef. What had your beloved DONE? <Michelle> Pledged himself to the forces of Darkness. He was a far darker soul than our friend Xarroch, and he hid it all with charms and manners that would stir any heart. <Marta> ::still shaking, her form dim and troubled:: He...that is not love, then. He could not have loved you, and loved Darkness at the same time. * Michelle shakes her head, a slight smile on her face, "Was I ever so innocent." <Marta> ::shakes her head, her face firm:: It is not innocence, it is the truth. Pure intent, pure love, they are the same. There is no room in the heart for more than one. <Michelle> And what is pure love, you who have lived so little and claim to know so much? <Marta> ::staring Michelle in the eye unflinchingly, her gaze cold:: Pure love is what overcomes death. And that is something I know more of than you. * Michelle sighs and looks back to the fire, "You're right there child. I couldn't even hold enough love to stay with my child once it was born." <Marta> You had a child, with...him? Did you....kill it, too? <Michelle> No. Whatever force took me to that world took me to another with the child's first breath. <Marta> So....you don't even know what became of it? Whether it grew to follow its father's footsteps, or yours? <Michelle> I don't even know if I have a daughter or a son. <Marta> ::dropping her gaze to her hands:: I'm truly sorry. At least I've never known what it's like to lose a child. * Michelle drinks deeply again, "You've never known what it's like to know you're going to be bring a child into the world." Looks sidelong at Marta, "You probably don't even know what it's like to lay with your love." <Marta> ::blushing deeply:: Not that it's any of your business...but I've been dust for decades, so I suppose modesty on my part is a bit silly now. I have...been with Yousef. But no, I never conceived, as far as I knew of it. * Michelle smiles at Marta, "That's good. I'd hate to think you were planning on going to your final rest without something to make the rest worthwhile." * Marta looks for something with which to busy her hands, an oddly human gesture, and ends up fiddling with her apron strings. <Marta> ::looks chagrinned:: I was not "planning" to go to my final rest. I had naught to do with it. * Michelle giggles and has another drink, "Yeah, but you never bothered to tell any of us what happens once we finally drag Yousef here. How would you feel if I said I might be able to give you a second chance." * Marta shakes her head and looks troubled. <Marta> Honestly, I'd not thought of it...I've been a trifle...well, single-minded about it, you understand. But I really don't know *what* will happen. <Marta> ::cocking her head to one side:: And what do you mean by a "second chance"? <Michelle> Marta, I'm no expert on ghosts, but trust me, I know vows. If your vow to meet Yousef here is what kept you here as a ghost, then trust me, once we got Yousef here you'd move on. <Michelle> As for the second chance...I MIGHT, MIGHT be able to bring you back to life. If I can do that, Jelarthna says he has some water from the Fountain of Youth or something like that. You and Yousef could continue your lives the way you meant to 50 years ago. <Marta> I...I wouldn't be free to stay with him? ::starting to think about it logically, and looking more and more miserable as she thinks about it:: I... I promised I'd run away with him...we were to meet here, and then leave. <Marta> Bring me....back? But...my body is naught but bones. Could you...could you really bring me back? As I was? As I am? ::gesturing to her present form:: <Michelle> Not having an exact wording of your oath in front of me, and not knowing all the rules that this world follows, I can't say exactly what will happen, but I'd think that a ghost and an old man wouldn't make a particularly happy couple. Particularly without the fifty years in between to provide happy memories. <Michelle> I honestly don't know Marta. If, IF, I can bring you back, it should be as you appear now. Whether I can accomplish the task at all is uncertain. <Marta> I....::looking miserable:: I never thought past meeting with him...for fifty years, it's all I've thought on... <Michelle> I hate to say this Marta, but you probably weren't allowed to look past that. That meeting was probably what permitted you to become a ghost in the first place. <Marta> ::looking alarmed:: So now that you've brought it up, I may... disappear? Without even seeing him, after all this time? * Michelle smiles, "I doubt it. If you were that weak willed you'd never have managed to become a ghost." <Marta> ::relaxing slightly, and smiling:: My father always said I was stubborn. <Marta> But....you really think you might bring me back? ::eyes fixed on Michelle, leaning forward eagerly:: <Michelle> Well, you'd have to want to come back. There's no way I could pull it off if you weren't actively helping. And I'll need to examine you. I've already examined your remains, but YOU are the important part. After that...I don't know. <Marta> Anything I can do to aid you, I'll do. Ultimately, it will rest in Yousef's hands. ::sad look:: If what Mistress Maeli said is true, he may never wish to see me again. <Michelle> Michelle rises and walks over to Marta, lifting her chin so that their eyes meet, "He'll come and he'll want to be with you again. It was the last thing Mikhail said." <Marta> ::looking into Michelle's eyes, wanting desperately to believe her:: I will wait for him, because all I have is my hope and my belief. But I would understand if hated me for leaving him. ::pause:: Who is Mikhail? <Michelle> My child's father. <Marta> ::breaking off her gaze, looking down:: Ah. * Michelle sits down across from Marta, "Does that bother you Marta?" <Marta> It does, a little...I...I can only imagine how painful it was. For *both* of you. ::Marta smiles without humor:: <Michelle> And how painful have the past fifty years been for you and Yousef? <Marta> ::shakes her head:: I can't imagine what it was been for Yousef...though I imagine it has been easier for him, hating me. For me....the waiting has been the worst. And being trapped in that place, when I needed so desperately to be here. <Michelle> Don't assume the weight of not knowing was an easy burden to carry. In my experience any trouble is lighter when its nature is known. <Marta> ::looking at Michelle gravely:: I have not known until recently whether Yousef lived or died. * Michelle tilts her head, "Were you this much of a martyr when you were alive, or did it come out over the past fifty years?" <Marta> ::stares at Michelle for a moment, a shocked look on her face, and then breaks into a merry, tinkling laugh:: I suppose I have been rather preoccupied with this of late. But death will do that to one. * Michelle smiles and pats Marta's hand, "I'm glad to see you smiling again." <Marta> If you *are* able to make me mortal again, I promise you that you'll see me smile a great deal. * Michelle giggles, "You mean you and Yousef won't run away together?" <Marta> Ah well...there's nothing to force us to leave in order to be together, now, tho' I'd love to see more of the world. I'm sure Yousef would as well, if he hasn't already. But there'd be nothing to stop us from running *back* occasionally. * Michelle giggles, "Shall we get on with examining you to see if this miracle is possible?" |
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