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* Lisl arrives at the Tower door looking as though butter wouldn't melt in her mouth, just as Zoya and Marten amble up. <Marten> ::smiles brightly at Lisl:: Lisl! I'm glad you made it! You look like you've just wrestled a bull. What's wrong? <Lisl> Wrestled a bull? ::laughs:: Hardly. I just carried Temire home. I think, between her wounds and the 'kick, the evening's been a bit much for her. But I'm proud of her, she handled herself like a trooper tonight. * Zoya lays a hand on the Tower's weird sideways door and it opens to admit them. <Zoya> She did, indeed. She'll be quite a credit to her teachers. <Marten> ::smiles more widely:: Good! I was worried your mood had soured since we left the Hall. Still feel like dropping in for some conversation and drink, then? <Lisl> ::giving Zoya a significant look:: I just... hurried a little after I put her to bed. I didn't want you hanging about out here waiting for me. * Marten waves an arm, motioning for the ladies to preceed him into the Tower. <Lisl> With the promise of dwarven? Hardly. ::grinning and preceding Marten into the door:: <Zoya> ::laughs and follows Lisl, then takes the lead and shows them to a small, cozy parlor.:: * Marten follows Lisl and Zoya inside, staking out a larger chair in the parlor. * Zoya bustles about a bit as Lisl and Marten settle themselves. A small fire springs up in the fireplace to ward off the spring chill, and she summons a bluish wisp of smoke to fetch their drinks. * Lisl snags a stool from the corner with her foot and perches on it, hooking her feet on the rungs. <Marten> ::shakes his head, wryly:: Again with the smoke, Zoya. An interesting and useful application of magic. Almost makes me want to take up the trade. <Zoya> ::to the wisp:: Dwarven spirits for Lisl. Taranian wine, watered to half-strength, for me. ::turns:: Marten? What will you have? * Lisl shoots an odd look at Marten and opens her mouth at his comment, but closes it again without speaking. <Marten> ::thinks for a few moments:: A wine from the Dalelands, if you have one. Nothing pretentious, mind you. A simple white. If not from the Dalelands, then a Sembian white will do. <Marten> ::notices Lisl's look over his shoulder:: Something to say, Lisl? Gape much harder, and your neck might break. * Zoya gestures at the wisp, and it disappears. She turns to Marten. "It's what the house staff look like. I haven't bothered to change their appearance since I moved in. Somewhat later, since you'll be staying here, I'll let them know to obey your summons as well and teach you how to call them." <Marten> ::nods:: Thank you, Zoya, but aside from your own convenience, I can make do. If you're comfortable with giving me dominion over parts of the Tower, though... Thank you. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: No, it wasn't important, Marten. <Zoya> ::grins:: It's nothing to do with *my* convenience. The kitchen doesn't like mortals entering it. <Marten> ::nods, smiling:: I understand. Then, at your convenience. <Zoya> Oh, that reminds me! I'll be right back! ::She leaves the room quickly:: <Lisl> ::chuckles:: I'll say. Last time, it came after me with knives. At least it was polite, and used clean steel. <Marten> ::laughs:: Is this more of Erdian's doings? I figured the Hall would be unique in having an animated kitchen. <Zoya> ::In the meantime, the blue wisp returns. It pauses in front of Lisl, offering a carved-stone mug that steams slightly.:: <Lisl> ::laughs again:: Erdian assisted in animating the Hall, I believe. He was something of a... practical joker. <Lisl> Thank you. ::accepts the mug and takes a swig:: <Zoya> ::The wisp floats in Marten's direction, producing a delicate crystal wineglass:: <Marten> ::grins:: And his style of humor shows. I'm interested in the Tower, and Erdian's legacy as well. But, that's something I will have time for in abundance. <Lisl> Oh? :;taking another swallow:: You're not moving on, then? Sounds like you made a number of decisions in my absence. <Marten> ::takes the wine glass, and nods to the wisp of smoke:: My thanks. ::swirls the wine, and sniffs it:: Excellent. Sembia produces a fine lineage of white wines. <Zoya> ::The wisp moves to the middle of the room and waits.:: <Marten> ::takes a sip of the wine, and moves it about his mouth, then swallows:: Hmm? No, I'm not planning on leaving any time soon. Zoya and I talked a great deal, and I'm as safe here in Marsember, in the Tower, as I am anywhere. Running has its place, but not here. * Zoya comes back. She's carrying an elaborate amulet on a long silver chain. She offers it to Marten. "One more bit of magic." <Marten> ::takes the amulet, and eyes it oddly:: What is it? <Zoya> Once I key it to you, it will help you get around in the Tower when I'm not here to guide you. And it will protect you from... certain defenses. * Lisl leans forward a little interestedly. <Lisl> Heh....like the kitchen? <Marten> ::nods, eyeing the amulet more carefully:: I see. <Zoya> ::smiles:: Precisely. <Zoya> ::to Marten:: Would you put it on, please? You can take it off again after I've finished if you don't care to wear jewelry. * Lisl settles back on her stool, rubbing her chin as she thinks about what such a tool could do in the wrong hands. <Marten> ::puts the amulet around his neck:: Need to activate it to me? Bind it to me, or something like that? * Zoya catches Lisl's movement. "That's part of why I have to key it to him, Lisl. No one else will be able to use it." <Lisl> ::blinks in surprise a couple of times, and then smiles slowly:: Did I say anything? <Zoya> Something like that. Please, just relax. ::her mouth quirks in an amused grin:: This won't hurt a bit. <Marten> ::smiles at Zoya:: I know. * Zoya rests one hand over the amulet and touches the fingers of the other to Marten's temple. She takes a deep breath and closes her eyes as she lets it out slowly. * Marten closes his eyes, leaning his head slightly into Zoya's touch. <Zoya> ::A soft glow spreads from the hand at his temple down Zoya's arm, across her body, down the other arm, and into the amulet. A moment later, it fades.:: * Lisl watches the two of them, catching the way Marten relaxes as Zoya touches him. * Marten opens his eyes, and looks at Zoya. <Zoya> ::Her touch lingers a few seconds more, then both hands drop as she opens her eyes:: That's it. <Marten> ::smiles:: Thank you, Zoya. I appreciate it. * Zoya smiles, then turns to accept a pewter mug from the wisp, which then fades away. <Zoya> ::taking a seat and a sip from her mug:: Well, without guidance, you could be lost in these halls for, weeks. * Lisl takes another swallow of spirits, musing. <Marten> I've gathered as much. With the stories in town of children wandering into the Tower, never to be seen again, your home's getting quite the reputation. Never mind the gnomes. <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: Tales? Really? I haven't heard any such. Since some time before I've taken over, the Tower has been rejecting casual visitors. ::musing:: Maybe they grew out of the story of the gnomes? <Lisl> ::dryly:: Or out of standard town folklore about wizard strongholds... I imagine parents use stories like that to keep their children *away* from here. <Marten> ::smiles:: Perhaps. I wouldn't be surprised if they predate your ownership of the Tower. <Zoya> ::laughs:: Probably. That's when the gnomes got in, too. <Zoya> But the halls *are* endless, without guidance. <Lisl> Well, the place *has* been owned by a wild mage since it was built. <Marten> Well, then, between old wives tales and the general insanity surrounding Erdian's legacy... <Zoya> At least. ::chuckles and sips from her mug:: <Marten> ::sips some more wine, and leans back slightly in his chair:: So, Zoya... I got the feeling at the Hall that you wanted to discuss something here with me and Lisl. <Lisl> ::raising an eyebrow:: "Erdian's legacy"? You've been doing some research, haven't you? <Marten> ::smiles at Lisl:: A little bit, yes. <Zoya> ::smiles:: I can't have a drink and some idle chat with two close friends? <Lisl> ::chuckles:: You usually break out the dwarven when you want to pump me for information. <Marten> ::laughs:: Of course you can! Far be it from me to suggest otherwise! ::looks at his glass of wine, and then at the small table beside his chair. He frowns, and looks at Zoya:: Zoya, how do I operate the little vapor helpers? <Lisl> Tho' I'll warn you, you should know better than to try to get me drunk on this. You don't stock enough. ::teasing grin:: * Zoya laughs. "I see I'll have to change my tactics." * Lisl takes a sip from her mug. <Lisl> Face it, Drachnaerbaen spoiled me rotten. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl sideways:: Drach... ::tries the name again:: Drachnaerbaen? I don't think I've heard of him. <Zoya> ::to Marten:: Hold your right hand like *this* ::demonstrating:: No, turn it just a little - the other way - good, just like that. Then raise your hand about six inches or so and hold it for about two seconds. <Marten> ::nods, looking at his hand:: Okay, then what? <Zoya> ::a blue wisp of smoke materializes in front of Marten:: <Marten> ::surprised:: Oh! Well, I'd like something to go with this wine. A plate of cheese, perhaps, and a few berries. <Zoya> Just tell it what you want. It's an extension of the Tower, but not really sentient in its own right. Can you remember the signal? <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: I'm dating myself again, aren't I? Drach was a HallMaster back... well, back when I was one, as well. ::smiling fondly:: A semi-retired dwarven paladin. He used to vacation in the Nine Hells. ::shakes her head:: I wonder whatever happened to him.... <Marten> ::looks at his hand, smirking:: I believe so, yes. <Zoya> ::the wisp disappears:: <Zoya> I met Drachnaerbaen once. ::she pronounces the dwarven gutturals very carefully:: He actually helped me find the Tower... If a bit reluctantly. * Marten smiles at Lisl. "Vacationing in the Nine Hells? An odd fellow indeed. But, where the Meade Hall is concerned, I've come to expect nothing less." <Zoya> ::the wisp returns with a plate of several kinds of cheese, a knife, and a small bowl of berries. It hovers in front of Marten until he takes them all, then disappears again.:: * Marten sets the plate down, and eats a couple of pieces of cheese. He follows these with a sip of wine. "Perfect!" <Lisl> Let's just say he takes great pride in his profession... if not glee. ::chuckles:: You should have seen him wield that axe... I thought 'Dancer was going to faint the first time Drach healed him with it. ::glancing at Zoya:: Drach and Erdian were very close. <Marten> ::nods, mouth full of cheese:: <Lisl> Heh... a monk aesthete. Now I've seen everything. <Zoya> ::nods:: I know. He thought the Tower should remain closed, a sort of monument to Erdian, and he thought I was merely going to plunder it. ::smiles:: I keep hoping to run into him, so he'll see I kept my promise. <Marten> ::laughs, nearly spraying a mouthful of food across the room. He swallows:: Granted, I don't fit the definition of monks here, Lisl. But, if you cannot enjoy the good things in life, is it worth living? <Lisl> ::stroking her chin:: If he finally agreed to help you, I wouldn't be surprised if it was because Erdian had a word in his ear personally. ::heh:: Drach can be... stubborn. ::shrugs:: He's a dwarf, after all. <Lisl> Alright, a philosophical monk, I can accept. <Marten> ::laughs:: Dwarves can be difficult and bullheaded. But, we don't know anyone else like that, either. * Zoya looks like she's about to ask Marten a question, then shrugs and turns to Lisl. "At any rate, you and Marten were both right, Lisl - I did ask you here for a reason." She laughs. "You both know me too well." * Lisl smiles and takes another sip of spirits. * Lisl coughs on Marten's last comment, nearly spraying the room herself. <Marten> ::smiles:: Only so philosophical, too. Don't spend so much time examining life that you can't live it. <Lisl> ::mock seriously:: That has never been a particular difficulty for me, no. <Marten> I can imagine, Lisl. <Marten> ::looks to Zoya:: Well, out with it, milady! If there's one thing I can't stand, it's secrets. ::winks at Zoya, playfully:: * Lisl coughs again, nearly inhaling her drink. "You're *trying* to choke me, aren't you? <Zoya> ::to Marten:: Only when someone other than yourself holds them! ::to Lisl:: The other day, Marten asked me some questions about Moon Dancer's background and abilities, as a werewolf. I could only tell him so much, and I thought you might be willing to answer his questions. <Zoya> ::to Marten:: If you're still curious, of course. <Marten> Of course! I'm curious about Moon Dancer, and your relationship with him, Lisl. Zoya mentioned that he was... different from you, in terms of your lycanthropy? <Lisl> ::looks quizzically at Marten:: Anything you want to know, I'll tell you. ::shakes her head:: Tho' I must say, I never expected you to want to know. Yes, 'Dancer was different. I was born here, he was from another world, but both of us were born werewolves. <Lisl> ::a troubled look passing over her features:: As I tried to tell you once before, I'm not cursed. <Marten> ::smiles:: Thank you, Lisl. After I've been so dodgy, I wouldn't blame you for keeping things to yourself. <Marten> ::nods:: I've gathered as much. He wasn't, either? * Zoya seems almost as interested in the answers as Marten. <Lisl> No. Actually, he was very different... different forms, different... powers... ::frowns, as she tries to think of a way to explain it:: <Marten> ::wags his head, side to side:: Go on. I'm not familiar with shape shifting on Faerun, much less from your two worlds. Any information you can give me... <Lisl> For one, his half-were form is much stronger than mine... and he could... hmm... I don't know if "cast spells" is quite the right way to describe it, but it's the best I can do. <Zoya> 'Dancer's use of spells was almost shamanic in nature. <Lisl> ::nods eagerly:: Yes, that's it exactly. <Marten> Shamanic? That's odd. You find little practiced shamanism around here. <Lisl> And his... relationship with the Wolf was different... things could provoke him into Changing... anger, for instance. ::grinning at Marten:: Which, I think, is why Jaret kept picking on you. <Zoya> ::grins:: If there's one thing I *do* know about, it's magic. He kept promising to come by and let me pick his brain, but we never quite got around to it. <Marten> ::smiles:: That explains Jaret's reaction to me then, at least. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: As I said, he's *not* from around here. I don't know much about it, but he had some sort of contact with his home soil... ::nodding slowly, as she thinks about it:: As you said, Zoya, shamanic. ::looking up:: I don't have anything like that. All my "magic" is in here. ::taps her chest:: <Marten> ::frowns:: Zoya mentioned, almost offhanded, that he had perhaps lost his abilities. Is that even possible? <Lisl> ::shudders:: I didn't think it was...it certainly wouldn't be for me. Not without... ::biting her lip:: ...not without ripping my soul to pieces. ::giving Marten a brief, haunted look before dropping her eyes:: But he was different...he spoke more as though beast and man had...more definition. <Marten> ::frowns:: I... I don't understand. More definition? <Lisl> ::runs her hand down over her face as she struggles for the words:: I'm... ::stops, shaking her head slowly:: I'm very different from the cursed werewolves that most are familiar with. ::making a face:: Unfortunately familiar with. <Marten> ::nods:: Yes, you are. You can control your beast, for one. <Lisl> The cursed ones...they have no control over their changes. Lady Moon brings the beast out of their flesh, and they have no control... love turns to hate, hate to love... their Beast controls them, and perverts everything... but when it's gone, they're themselves again. They're like... two separate things, one caged within the other. <Marten> Yes. That fits with my experience as well. <Lisl> 'Dancer had *some* similarities with that... he was stronger under the moon, I think, and it seemed like his Wolf was more a... distinct entity, one he knew well and could converse with, but still... * Zoya is fascinated. <Lisl> ::gnawing on her lip, thinking:: For me, it's different. I'm not a woman with a wolf inside, or a wolf wearing a woman's skin... I'm both. There's no... there's no line, no separation. Sometimes I'm more one than the other, but... ::shakes her head, at a loss for description:: <Marten> ::shakes his head, confused:: So, if not a separation in the mental sense, then perhaps the physical sense for him. Do you think that I... ::drops off into silence, picking up his wine and looking in the glass:: * Lisl suddenly remembers she has a mug in her hand, and sips from it. <Lisl> ::shake her head:: I don't know. It's almost like... like identical twins. Like... two souls in one body. That's at least the sense I got. He had a hard time describing it to me, as well, because our experiences are so different. <Marten> ::frowns, still looking in his wine glass:: I see. Then you don't have any thoughts, then, on where I came from. <Lisl> ::laughing suddenly:: Oh, I have thoughts, all right, I just don't know how much they're worthy thoughts and how much they're born of my worries. <Marten> ::swirls his wine around, and takes a sip, then stands:: If you ladies please... <Marten> ::walks out of the parlor slowly, headed toward where his room should be:: * Zoya watches Marten as he leaves, hardly aware she's doing so. <Lisl> ::watching him go, taking another swallow of spirits and draining the mug:: I hope... ::biting her lip:: I hope I didn't just drive him off again. <Zoya> I don't think so. ::takes a sip from her own mug, then grins:: He had a large enough dinner earlier to be in need of a chamber pot. <Lisl> Heh. ::smiles weakly, but the set of her shoulders betrays her tension and worry:: <Zoya> ::softly:: Lisl? <Lisl> ::looking up, her eyes sad:: Yes? <Zoya> How... ::considers her words carefully:: What... ::sighs and tried again:: Marten is... worried. <Zoya> Not so much about this brotherhood that is hunting him. He's finally made his decision to stand and face them, and that's lessened his fear, I think. <Lisl> ::smiling, a trifle bitterly:: He isn't the only one. I went to Candlekeep to speak to Mother... well, and to see some relatives who finally wanted to meet me... <Zoya> But I think he's afraid of, well, of dying, if his memory returns. <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow at Lisl's mention of her mother and relatives:: <Lisl> ::puzzled frown:: Dying? I don't think it would -- oh. Oh. ::looks down to trace the pattern in the carpet as she considers this:: I think I see what you mean. <Zoya> ::nods:: Yes. Without knowing what happened to 'Dancer, I can't even hazard a guess about what would happen to Marten if 'Dancer "came back". <Lisl> ::looking up and seeing Zoya's inquiring look:: I mentioned that Mother's been back and forth researching at Candlekeep? Well, the last of the elven encampments this side of Evermeet is near there... the reason I couldn't get in touch with her was that she was called there, to see her sister for the last time. <Zoya> Ah. I'm sorry, Lisl. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: No, nothing like that. ::grinning one-sided:: It's an elf thing. Her sister decided she wanted to pass on to Evermeet. That's not a...what do you call... a euphemism. They actually travel to a land across the Western Sea. <Lisl> If anything, it was good for me. Mother's now the eldest of her family remaining here... her sister had to pass some things on to her, and when she left, so did the last of the resistance to... my birth. <Zoya> ::blinks:: Oh. I see, I think. <Lisl> So, I went to see Mother, to find out what she'd learned of Kara-Tur at Candlekeep, and I got to meet some of my elven relatives. It was kind of a bonus. ::grinning:: The young ones aren't half as stuffy. <Zoya> Well, that's a good thing, then. You said you brought back some books? <Lisl> ::looking sour:: Most of the elder family didn't even acknowledge the marriage to a mere human, much less the birth of a deformed bastard like me. ::said with more humor than rancor:: <Zoya> ::frowns, but shrugs slightly:: Elders can be stuffy, that way. <Lisl> Yes. ::touching her stuffed pack with the toe of her boot:: In there. I also understand what Marten meant, now, about their steel... there was a trophy sword on display, there. ::smiles:: The curator nearly had a cow, but he let me touch it. <Zoya> Oh? ::as always, Zoya perks up at the mention of new knowledge to acquire:: <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: You don't understand. Some of my family would have, quite literally, killed me had I set foot on ancestral lands. And they could have done it, too. Heh. Even though they didn't know *everything* about what I was.... <Zoya> ::smiles:: Wild mages are subject to death without trial in the country of my birth, Lisl. I understand. <Lisl> You're welcome to the books...they're mostly background knowledge, merchant's reports, the like. The maps are pretty bad, even to my eye. But there may be something helpful in there.... ::looking at Zoya narrowly:: One report spoke of ships in the sky.... <Zoya> ::shakes her head:: It wasn't me. I've only ever been on this continent. <Lisl> ::raising her eyebrows in surprise and sucking in her cheeks:: Maybe you do, at that. ::smiling:: <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: No, not ship...*ships*....as in, a fleet of. * Marten walks back into the parlor, wine glass empty. He looks at the ladies seated in the room, and tries to force a smile as he takes his seat. <Lisl> ::grinning and looking up:: Ahh, Marten. We were just talking about you. <Zoya> ::frowns:: Really? That's disturbing. I thought the spelljammer might offer- ::breaks off as Marten enters:: What's wrong? <Marten> ::looks at Zoya:: Hmm? Nothing, really. Just thinking. About Moon Dancer, and Marsember. <Zoya> ::mildly:: Yes? Any thoughts you care to share with us? <Zoya> You look so terribly serious. <Marten> ::sighs:: Honestly, Zoya? It's just... there are so many unknowns. I've spent so much of my life preparing, and it's difficult to... ::he stops:: Of course, now that too is in question. I assume that's how I spent my life. It's what I was told. But, I can't remember back that far, can I? <Lisl> ::leaning forward with a sudden thought:: You know...I see so much of MoonDancer in you...I wonder if, when I see MoonDancer, I'll drive him just as crazy by seeing so much Marten in him. <Lisl> Preparing? * Zoya lays a hand on Marten's shoulder. "It must be difficult." <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow at Lisl's question:: <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: It was part of my life, in temple. Preparing for meditation, preparing for tasks and jobs. We took so much time to insure that we did all that we could, with minimal effort. Now, it's like walking blind in an unfamiliar house. <Lisl> You... don't know what to prepare for? * Zoya opens her mouth to say something, then sighs and simply tightens her grip on his shoulder briefly. <Marten> How can I? I have ideas, but they're just that: ideas. I don't know if they've given up, or if they're just biding their time until they can move. And, after that, there's the question of who I really am. ::sighs:: Sometimes, it's a heavy burden. * Marten looks up at Zoya, almost managing a smile, and places a hand on hers for a few moments. * Marten lifts his hand just so, then angles it like Zoya showed him. After a few moments, the blue mist appears in front of him. He places the empty wine glass on it. "Another, please." <Lisl> ::rocking slightly on her stool, thinking:: You said once that you found it hard to keep to the monk's way... that you tended to the wanderer's path, the warrior's path... maybe you just need to prepare for exploration down a different path. ::shakes her head:: You shouldn't let them define you, define your actions. Or us, for that matter, much as we might like to. ::smiling slightly:: <Lisl> ::lifts a finger:: Refill here, too, please? <Lisl> Like I said, there's a difference between prudent and paranoid. * Zoya smiles somewhat sadly at him and briefly touches his face before leaning back in her chair. She makes a swift, more complicated gesture, and the mist resolidifies in the act of fading and accepts Lisl's mug as well. <Marten> ::mostly smiles back at Lisl:: I know. And as much as you try to avoid being defined... I've fallen into a cycle, Lisl. If I'm not ready for them, then they will certainly take me if they so desire. If I try to prepare, then they may never show. Ever vigilant, for possibly no reason. <Lisl> ::lifts a shoulder:: Welcome to the warrior's way. Constant vigilance, even in times of peace. <Marten> ::frowns:: But the warrior... the warrior has an enemy. The warrior has structure to his life. The trapped sage? <Zoya> ::frowns:: I think this is different from a warrior's general vigilance, Lisl. Marten's facing the possibility of a powerful group of enemies. <Lisl> ::leans forward:: You said you trained your students for the killing strike... so that if they ever needed it, they could perform it without hesitation. Even if they lived their entire lives without having to take another life. This isn't so different. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: Not as different as you might think. You think we *expected* a fiend from Hell to invade the Hall and raise havoc between its patrons? <Marten> ::the mist reappears, with Marten's wine glass and Lisl's mug. Marten picks up his glass, and the mist wanders toward Lisl to offer her glass before disappearing again. Marten drinks from his glass, and frowns:: <Lisl> Thanks. ::accepts the mug and drinks again, with a happy sigh:: <Zoya> I heard about that incident. It's the one that killed Erdian. <Lisl> ::darkly:: Yes, it was. Well, that and illness. <Marten> I see your point, Lisl. You very well may be right; I may have to start down a new path in my life. But, all I remember is my life before. Martial training is one thing, Lisl. Constant vigilance is not constant fear. <Lisl> ::putting her mug down with a slight bang, using it as a gavel:: Exactly. <Zoya> ::after an obvious internal debate, Zoya speaks, almost reluctantly:: If you could tell us more, Marten, it might be possible to force the issue. ::she looks up sharply:: I'm not saying it's a good idea. But it might be possible, if it's what you want - what you *need*. <Lisl> ::chuckling:: In the words of one of your own sages, "It is foolish to turn your back on the hungry tiger." <Marten> ::exasperated, Marten sighs:: Tell you what, Zoya? What do you want to know, that you think will help? <Lisl> ::chuckles:: I can't believe you taught. You're certainly one to underestimate the power of knowledge. Know your ground, know your skills, know your enemy. <Lisl> ::eyeing Marten:: And know your fears. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, slightly offended:: Really? I am out of my element, Lisl. If you were in the same situation, I think you might give me more leeway in my self-doubt. <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow at his sharp tone, but speaks calmly:: I don't know what would be helpful, Marten. If you tell us who and where they are, we could go to them and demand they give up the search, with whatever... firmness is necessary. If you can tell us what hunters you've already encountered, it might allow us to guess what else remains. <Lisl> ::grinning:: I must admit, a twenty-odd years' gap in my memory *would* give me pause. <Marten> ::turns to Zoya:: What are they? That seems to come up more and more often, doesn't it? I've tried to protect you, Zoya. I've tried to protect you all, but you continue to ask me. ::takes another drink from his glass:: <Lisl> We're stubborn that way. Personally, I love rushing headlong into danger. ::dryly:: <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: I know my enemy. I know my skills, and have spent the past weeks learning my ground. I have done this in the past, in other places. Every time I feel I have the upper hand, they appear and... It is disheartening, at the least. <Zoya> ::She moves to stand directly in front of him and puts her hands on either side of his face, forcing him to look into her eyes, and speaks very quietly.:: Marten. I am only trying to help you. I want you to be free of this. But I can't do it like this, half-blind. You don't have to tell me anything. I'll stop asking if you say so. But I can't help you if you don't. * Marten places his larger hands over Zoya's, covering them. He looks at her, equaling her gaze. "I won't ask you to stop. Your help means..." <Lisl> ::levelly:: If they continue to surprise you, you don't know your enemy as well as they know you...and I think, in this case, they probably know you *better* than you know yourself. ::cocking her head to one side:: That's a powerful advantage. * Marten gently takes Zoya's hands off his face, and turns his head to look at Lisl. "And you. Do you care what you're getting into?" <Lisl> Care? Of course I do. Do I fear it? Of course I do, though perhaps not as much as I might, if I knew the full extent of what threatened you. Do I intend to stop? ::pausing, studying Marten's eyes:: No. They hunt an innocent man, they've probably harmed a friend. If it were the gods themselves, I'd hunt them down and make them give answer. * Zoya nods as if in agreement with Lisl. <Lisl> ::her eyes are flinty:: I don't stand for people who exploit others that way, who abuse their knowledge and power. If I did... ::swallowing:: ...if I did, I *would* be a monster. <Marten> ::looks down at his glass again, and seems to steel himself:: The closest thing in Cormyr is an assassins guild, but that only scratches the surface. Part assassins guild, part thieves guild, and part kingmakers. They are a powerful, resourceful group of men. <Marten> They have their hands in nearly every part of life in Kara-Tur. Businesses, both legitimate and otherwise. Politics and the military. Everything. If something is within their reach that they want, they are used to having it. I am a notable exception, it seems. This is displeasing some important men, I'm sure. * Zoya frowns. "You are telling us that, if they decide you are important enough, all of Kara-Tur might come for you? <Lisl> ::narrowing her eyes:: From what I read, the country didn't seem that organized. The journals spoke of wars, civil unrest... <Marten> ::smiles:: No, Zoya. They are a finite number of men, and their actual numbers are quite small. Their reach, however... They seem to have a network, to be part of a larger whole. I think they have called in numerous favors to pursue me as far as they did, and that may be the one thing keeping me safe now. <Lisl> Hmm...every favor they call in is another they can't use again... <Zoya> ::to Lisl:: They might prefer it that way. Hidden conspiracies hide best among chaos. ::smiles crookedly:: I should know. <Marten> ::laughs:: It is organized, when it suits their needs. When it doesn't... wars start. Unrest builds, until the people either become restless or start leaving. <Lisl> Heh. You're probably right... order is what brought down the Zhents. <Zoya> This is... Not as bas as I had feared it might be. ::smiles quickly at Marten:: Don't misunderstand - I'm not underestimating. I've never faced an entire organization this big, this powerful before. It is, indeed, a sobering thought. But... They are only men. They can be dealt with, one way or another. <Lisl> ::raising her head:: Hmmm.... I wonder if that's part of their "local ties"... <Marten> Agreed. They may now just be collecting their resources, those that they spread thin. Deciding on a course of action. But, they are skilled. They are very skilled, and their strength doesn't come from numbers. Small groups of highly trained warriors can do much more damage alone than a horde can. A horde you see coming. A small group, like jackals, you only see when it's too late. <Marten> ::to Zoya:: Also true. But... when you cannot find the men to fight, and do not know where to look next? <Lisl> ::nods, a slow, rather wolfish grin spreading over her face:: I know all about that tactic. I use it frequently. Small numbers are often discounted, but you wouldn't *believe* the amount of damage they can do in the wrong place.... like using a stiletto, instead of a broadsword. <Marten> ::takes a drink:: It is difficult to fight something you cannot see. <Marten> ::grins at Lisl:: Precisely. The skills of a chiurgeon, if properly applied for example, translate to the martial world with frightening results. * Zoya smiles slowly, and cruelly. It is not a smile Zoya has used often, and it is almost frightening in and of itself.:: As it happens, I have some experience finding - and fighting - those who do not wish to be found. <Lisl> Difficult, but not impossible... ::smiling, thinking of Lion:: There are those who are best at fighting blind... <Lisl> ::nodding:: And I saw one of your scalpels, back in Candlekeep...I know what you mean, now, about the ease of cuts like that. ::making a slicing motion from Marten's head to shoulder:: <Marten> We...they are a well-trained group of men and women. If they do not wish to be found, I don't know how you would find them. And, I don't know if they're even in pursuit. ::sighs, and slumps slightly:: There are so many things I don't know. <Zoya> ::the smile softens suddenly, and she puts a hand on his shoulder:: Marten. Is the danger worse, now? For having told us this? <Marten> ::grins:: Indeed. Much like a butcher, separating ribs. If you follow the natural lines of the body, it nearly falls apart. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: The butchers here use cleavers. Using a sword like that would be... ::looking off to one side, her eyes turned inward:: ...it would be like dancing. <Marten> ::looks at Zoya:: No. I had decided to tell you, when I left a short while ago. If I am to make my stand, then there is no point. I only feared for you. They are secretive; they do not like knowledge of them escaping the confines of their temples. Those outside of the brotherhood who know of them usually do not live long to spread the tale. <Lisl> ::nodding seriously:: That's because that knowledge can hurt them. People don't guard against myths and children's scary bedtime stories. They *do* guard against spies and assassins. But they're not in their home ground now... ::licking her lips:: They're on *mine.* <Marten> ::smiles. It is a cold smile, one tempered with something dark inside of him:: Yes, Lisl. It would. Dancing... an excellent analogy. You might be up to the task of learning. <Lisl> ::lifting her head with a smile:: I would love to. ::smile softening:: I'd love to spar with you. <Zoya> ::grins:: Lisl and I are used to keeping secrets. There is no reason they should discover that we know of them. And you... You are familiar with them - you can teach us how it is they hide, and how best to seek. <Marten> ::nods, but not so confidently as Lisl's attitude would warrant:: They're not on their home ground, no. But, we... they are excellent. They know how to enter a place and make it theirs. Hire the right people and find out the right information. When they move, there is little advantage offered by home ground. <Marten> ::smiles, knowingly:: We will, before this is over. <Lisl> ::chuckling:: We may have to make sure, then, that they don't find the *right* information. ::exchanging a look with Zoya:: And I'm fairly certain that we have some resources they couldn't dream of. <Marten> I'm sure you do, Lisl. ::shakes his head:: I fear... I just fear for your safety, for Zoya's. ::he looks at Zoya, and places a hand on her shoulder. He strokes her shoulder slightly, almost unconsciously:: <Lisl> ::smiling almost fondly at the two of them, and shaking her head:: Let me fear for my own safety, Marten. You've got enough to worry about. <Marten> ::nods:: And you, Zoya? <Zoya> ::smiles warmly at Marten and leans - almost unconsciously - into his touch:: <Zoya> ::she looks somewhat surprised at his question:: I do not choose my friends lightly, Marten. <Lisl> I think you worry too much, Marten. ::glancing pointedly from him to Zoya and back, and looking at his hand on her shoulder:: About a lot of things. * Marten looks at his hand, and gets slightly self-conscious. He tightens his grip slightly before picking his hand up off Zoya's shoulder. <Lisl> ::shakes her head with a smile:: That's exactly what I mean. <Zoya> ::in a tone warning, but amused:: Lisl... <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: What now, Lisl? <Lisl> For a man who says he's going to enjoy what life has to offer, Marten, you live too much in your worries of the future. <Lisl> ::looking at Zoya:: What!? What's wrong with stating the obvious, hey? <Marten> Not worries so much, Lisl. I am concerned over who I drag into my problems. And there is so little time for anything other... There has never been time for much else. I am cautious. Sometimes to a fault, perhaps. * Zoya throws up her hands in mock exasperation. "Nothing, of course, Lisl, mother and matchmaker! Do, tell us how we should proceed!" She suddenly blushes and rather pointedly looks anywhere but at Marten. <Marten> ::looks at Zoya, surprised, and laughs slightly before he can stop himself:: <Lisl> ::narrowing her eyes at Marten:: You're concerned over who you let into your life. There's a difference. And you're concerned about losing your life... and what you may lose along with it. <Lisl> ::laughs at Zoya's outburst:: I wouldn't dream of it, Zoya... because I know you'd be too chicken to take my advice, anyway. <Marten> ::stops, and considers his words carefully:: Yes. Very well put, Lisl. Is that so wrong? * Zoya picks up her mug and finishes it off, muttering incomprehensibly into its depths. By the time she puts it down, she's regained her composure, for the most part. <Lisl> ::raising an eyebrow:: You want my honest opinion? In a word, yes. <Marten> ::takes another drink, sizing up Lisl as he does so:: I disagree, Lisl. There are times that, despite what you think may be a good idea, you protect those who... those you care about. For their sake, and your own. <Lisl> To take a page from Jaret's book, "Better to have loved and lost, than never loved at all." Zoya's a grownup. Her decisions, her mistakes, are her own. <Lisl> ::half-bowing floridly to Zoya:: Begging your pardon for speaking of you in your presence. <Marten> ::looks slightly uncomfortable when Lisl mentions Zoya's name directly, and looks downright lost when Lisl asks Zoya's forgiveness:: <Lisl> I'm sorry to sound so harsh, but Zoya said you were worried... about what might happen to *you* if 'Dancer... if 'Dancer came back. What, may I ask, is the point of worrying, if you refuse to live a life of your own, dammit? <Zoya> ::glances at Lisl, then takes a very deep breath:: Marten. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, slightly frowning, then looks at Zoya:: Yes, Zoya? <Zoya> We are not, either of us, fools. Nor does the situation permit the games of the young. Lisl is... in part, at least, correct. <Lisl> Ha! ::slapping her knee, before ducking her head, a trifle shame-faced, and sipping her Spirits:: <Zoya> ::with obvious effort, she looks up into Marten's face:: Having admitted to myself that I... care for you, my pain would not be lessened, if you were lost, by hiding it from you. <Zoya> This was *not* ::a dark glance in Lisl's direction:: the time or way I would have preferred to speak, but since Lisl has forced my hand... There it is. <Marten> ::looks at Zoya, and shifts:: 'Games of the young.' Yes, Zoya. The situation does not permit those type of games. ::sighs slightly, shoulders sagging as he does:: What does it permit, then? Flighty matters of romance? Games of the heart? What will the situation allow? ::he stops himself, collecting his thoughts before he gets out of hand. He looks at Zoya again, more kindly:: What would you allow? * Lisl looks as innocent as a completely guilty person can, at Zoya's glare, and casually sips her drink. <Lisl> [can we say, wolf in sheep's clothing?] <Zoya> ::looks at Marten almost sadly:: Are matters of the heart of such little importance, then? Flighty romance and games? Hunting and being hunted, the... amusement of pursuit - these are games. But the feeling underlying? I think not. <Zoya> ::she looks away, and sighs:: <Marten> ::smiles warmly:: Of course not, dear Zoya. Matters of the heart - the chase, the flirtations and courting... the love - they all have their place. Their place has been out of my life for so long... ::takes Zoya's chin in his hand, and slowly turns her face to his:: You've caught me unprepared, Zoya, and I don't know where to turn next. <Lisl> ::coughing lightly, a highly amused fly on the wall, and speaking under her breath:: If you want my advice, I'd say *that* way. ::pointing her thumb down the hall towards the bedroom:: <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, crossly:: Lisl, if you please... <Lisl> :;waving her hand:: Sorry, sorry, I couldn't resist.... <Zoya> ::laughs softly and takes his hand in hers:: I wasn't looking for this, either, you know... ::she glares at Lisl again, then laughs:: Despite what she says, there's no reason to run, simply because the path is before us. <Lisl> ::looking down at the stone mug in her hands, and turning it in her fingers, careful not to spill its contents:: Where's a talking mug when you need one? <Marten> ::looks at Zoya for a split second before laughing:: Run?!? Who said I was planning on running, Zoya? Haven't you heard a word I've said this week? I'm staying. Yes, part of it is the sense of safety in Marsember. Part of it is my fascination with this man who shares my face. But, Zoya, I'm mostly staying for you. Didn't you realize that? <Zoya> ::mutters under her breath, knowing full well Lisl can hear her:: If you don't stop, I'll turn you *into* a talking mug... <Lisl> ::chuckles at Zoya's comment, but subsides, quietly sipping her spirits:: <Zoya> ::looks at Marten in surprise for a moment:: But I- ::grins:: That's not quite what I meant, Marten. <Marten> ::frowns slightly:: What did you mean, then? <Zoya> ::smiles, and glances past him at Lisl:: Perhaps we might discuss it... later. <Marten> ::laughs:: Perhaps. Our present company seems to comment too much for my tastes. <Lisl> ::raises her eyebrows and mimes sealing her lips and tossing the key, before taking another swallow of spirits:: * Zoya chuckles and looks at Lisl. "Are you satisfied?" <Lisl> ::smiles broadly and nods:: It'll do for a start. <Marten> ::laughs:: For a start? What's your next trick, finding a bride for Rhys? <Zoya> Perhaps something a bit easier this time around - a new husband for Nacheyla? <Lisl> ::grinning:: Actually, keeping Yb from killing the both of you next time she sees you will take talent enough. <Marten> ::laughs uneasily:: Yb... there's a story there I don't know, I'm sure of it. * Zoya groans at mention of Yb. "She's completely insane. If I didn't have instructions... She decided, years ago, that Moon Dancer was her One True Love and bullied him into a mock proposal." <Lisl> ::losing her smile:: But seriously...this is part of what I meant, about knowing yourself. You can deny to others, but don't ever deny yourself. Whoever that is. ::grinning again:: <Lisl> ::raises an eyebrow at Zoya:: Instructions? Regarding Yb? <Lisl> from whom? <Zoya> ::quite seriously:: I'm not at liberty to say. <Lisl> ::chuckles:: Mysteries abound. You see what I mean? You're made for each other. <Marten> ::throws up his hands:: I know there's a story, ladies, but perhaps it could wait for another evening? ::looks at Lisl, and offers an arm:: Lisl, if you would do me the honor of letting me escort you out, I think Zoya and I have some more to discuss. Alone. <Lisl> ::standing:: That's alright, I know when I'm not wanted. ::grinning:: But seriously... I hope you take me up on that offer to spar. I'll promise not to bite you if you promise not to kill me. <Lisl> And knowing how they fight can only help us, I think.... <Marten> ::smiles:: I was more than serious about that offer. It seems I'll be staying at the Tower longer than I had planned, so drop by sometime tomorrow? <Lisl> ::nodding:: I'll do that. ::grinning wickedly again:: How early can I wake you two? <Zoya> Lisl! <Lisl> ::mockingly:: Zoya! ::grinning:: <Marten> ::looks back at Zoya, smiling, and turns back to Lisl:: Not too early. We have some more talking to do, Lisl. You've put me in quite the position. <Marten> ::thinks for a moment:: Give me until midday before I'm up to sparring form. I have some things to unpack, and some morning exercises to do. <Zoya> ::nods:: By mid-day, I'll be gone and you can spar in peace. <Lisl> ::heading for the door, and pausing as she looks over her shoulder:: Tho' not the same position Zoya may put you into later... I hear Glossaria's been... studying. Midday it is! ::laughing as she ducks out the door and heads down the stairs at a run:: <Marten> ::drops his head in embarrassment, and turns back to Zoya:: Is she always that bad? <Zoya> Once she's latched on to an idea? Oh, yes. <Marten> ::sighs:: I'd hate to see her attached to someone, instead of just an idea. <Zoya> ::chuckles:: Rumor has it, once... <Marten> ::waves a hand, stopping her:: No! I don't want to know! <Marten> ::starts laughing, and looks at Zoya:: What am I going to do with you, Zoya? <Zoya> ::laughs outright:: <Zoya> ::she smiles:: We'll find out, I suppose. <Marten> ::extends an arm to Zoya, and motions to her room:: May I walk you to your room, Zoya? <Zoya> ::smiles and takes his arm:: I'd like that. [fade to black] |
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