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* Rhys walks in from the outside, opens the front (side) door, and lets himself and the patrons on to the Hall. "Hall's open everyone!" He walks around lighting lamps, and getting the fire in the hearth burning. * Lisl pushes the door open and strides through, holding it open behind her and turning to gripe. "I *still* say you should have let me carry you, Zoya. You're still too weak. * Zoya enters, arguing vociferously with Lisl. "You see? I made it! Just fine!" Despite her protestations, she is pale and slightly out of breath. She has four new scars at the base of her neck that look like puncture wounds. Silvery glowing manacles adorn each wrist, a single link hanging from each, and her voice is completely changed - a throaty contralto instead of the man's voice the patrons are used to. <Rhys> Zoya you look... different. Can I get you anything? 'kick, Lisl? * Zoya sinks onto a barstool and grins at Rhys. "Why, thank you. I'll have a cider, if you don't mind." <Lisl> ::letting the door swing closed:: No alcohol for Zoya yet. And yes, 'kick would be wonderful. ::glowering at Zoya:: * Rhys pours a cider for Zoya, and a mug of kick for Lisl. "Here you are." * Yb slips through the door, her nose buried in a stack of papers, her staff in the other hand, and a pencil behind her ear. She's wearing a worn housedress with a ratty lab coat on top. <Lisl> Get me a feather, Rhys, so I can show her how "just fine" she is! <Zoya> ::takes the cider from Rhys before Lisl can snatch it and takes a deep drink:: Ah... <Rhys> Evening... Yb. Can I get you anything? Kafe, with guarana extract, perhaps? * Yb navigates the room without bumping into anything and perches on a stool. "Sure Rhys." * Yb leans her staff against the wall, the proceeds to start spreading her papers over the bar so she can study them better. <Lisl> ::shoots Yb a puzzled glance, and muttering quietly, "Yb... studying?" before moving to sit between her and Zoya:: <Lisl> Just you watch, Zoya... you're going to pass out, and then you can't *stop* me from carrying you home. * Zoya takes another sip of her cider, watching Yb somewhat nervously. "Could be worse..." * Rhys pours Yb a steaming mug of black liquid, and adds a squirt of a clear liquid out of a bottle he swipes from under a bar. "Here you are." <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow at Lisl:: Tell ya what, Lisl - if I pass out, you hereby have permission to carry me home. <Lisl> ::in a voice loaded with sarcasm:: Gee, thanks. <Zoya> ::grins cheerfully:: No problem! * Yb absently picks up the mug and drains half the contents before setting it back down. * Lisl shakes her head in disgust and takes a deep draught from her mug of 'kick. * Zoya chuckles as she sips her cider. <Lisl> You're enjoying this *far* too much, you know. <Zoya> I think I'm entitled to *some* enjoyment, Lisl. I *did* spend a week too weak to walk. * Marten enters the Hall, whistling to himself. He spots Lisl and Zoya sitting at the bar, and his face brightens considerably. "You decided to try to make it after all! Wonderful!" He walks quickly to Zoya, and puts both arms around her, kissing her cheek. <Lisl> Yes, but the *amount* you're enjoying it...::shakes her head:: I'm sure that's illegal in certain provinces. Ah, Marten! Good seeing! * Marten smiles at Rhys, and slaps his hand on the bar. "A glass of wine, Rhys, if you please." <Lisl> ::slides her glance toward Yb, muscles tensing for a battle reaction:: * Zoya lights up as Marten walks in. She returns a kiss to his cheek. "Of course I did! I'd have been out and about days ago if it wasn't for Mother Dearest here..." She waves one hand at Lisl, laughing. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: And to you, Lisl. Keeping Zoya straight, I take it? <Rhys> Of course, Marten. ::pours him a goblet of Sembian blush:: Here you are. <Marten> ::picks up the goblet, sniffing it:: She means well, love. Even if she's gruff and obstinate, she only has your best interests at heart. <Lisl> ::still keeping a wary eye on Yb:: Trying, Marten. Trying *hard.* * Yb reaches out and swiftly pulls several hairs out of Lisl's arm then examines them for a moment, "No red ones." Yb then returns to scribbling on her papers. <Lisl> ::raises an eyebrow:: "Gruff and obstinate"? <Zoya> ::takes another happy drink of cider:: Yes, I'm sure she does. <Lisl> ::winces:: Dare I ask what that was for, Yb? * Yb ignores Lisl. <Lisl> ::sighs and takes another swig of 'kick:: This is going to be a *long* night. * Zoya eyes Yb suspiciously, muttering, "It could *definitely* be worse..." <Rhys> Can I top you off then, Lisl? <Marten> ::looks at Yb, slightly confused. He opens his mouth to ask her a question, but thinks better of it. He turns back to Zoya and smiles:: I'm sorry I've been so busy in the city, Zoya. You're obviously feeling better, since you're here. How's your head? <Lisl> ::squints into her mug, tips it back for another long drink, and sits it back down in front of Rhys:: I'd be grateful for it, thanks. <Zoya> Better. Aside from being slightly tired, I feel almost completely recovered, actually. I hope my, ah ::glances at Yb:: magic will begin returning in another day or so. * Rhys scoops up Lisl's mug, refills it with the explosive Kalthean beverage, and sets it back down in front of the silver-haired half-elf. <Marten> ::smiles:: Good. I've been worried, Zoya. You push yourself so hard sometimes, that you don't give yourself time to recover from things. Reading late, working on spells... ::he smiles:: Everything really. You can almost be as stubborn as your nurse. ::he winks, and then smiles at Lisl:: <Lisl> Thanks, Rhys. ::cocks her head to one side:: A plate of rare venison wouldn't go amiss with this, either...I haven't had much time to hunt, what with...::glancing at Zoya and looking back:: babysitting. * Zoya laughs. "Yes, I suppose so. I've never needed much sleep, Marten." <Rhys> Of course. One moment. ::heads back into the kitchen:: <Zoya> ::to Lisl:: The Kitchen isn't feeding you properly? <Lisl> ::looking slightly uncomfortable:: The Kitchen and I...don't always see eye-to-door, as it were. More like eye-to-knife. <Lisl> And I think it's on a health kick. The last time I asked for red meat, I got some sort of paste made from beans. <Marten> ::laughs:: Well, Lisl. If you'd be more accommodating to the Kitchen, I think it would try harder to let bygones stay precisely that. <Zoya> That was right after your last "invasion", Lisl. I think it was trying to get even. * Rhys returns with a plate that has a crimson, steaming venison steak on it. He puts the plate as well as a napkin and flatware in front of Lisl. "Here you are. Enjoy." * Yb drops her pencil and jumps onto Lisl's stool, giving Lisl a BIG hug, "FUZZY!" * Zoya blinks and backs slowly away from the enthusiastic Yb. <Lisl> ::grins, taking a deep whiff:: Thank you, Rhys. You're a god. ::glancing around the room and picking up knife and fork:: ACK!! ::raising the knife defensively out of reflex:: <Rhys> *the knife bends, as if it were made of rubber* <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, then at Yb, and stands, taking a spot between Yb and Zoya almost subconsciously:: Lisl? Need a hand? <Lisl> I've got...umm...four, thanks. ::looking at Yb's tentacle-like arms:: * Zoya backs up a little further, letting Marten interpose himself between her and Yb. She even ducks down a little, hiding behind him. <Lisl> Yb? You can put the fuzzy down now. Really. <Yb> But it's warm and FUZZY!! ::Rubs her face in Lisl's hair:: <Marten> ::instinctively puts a hand on Zoya's crouched back:: If you do, Lisl... ::he motions to a table nearby:: Zoya, would you care to join me at a table with... a better view? <Lisl> Yb? Yb, this is a *bad* time of the month to get between me and red meat, sweetie. <Yb> Oh, is Fuzzy hungry? ::Yb blinks her eyes innocently.:: <Marten> ::picks up his glass, and then Zoya's:: <Lisl> ::with a hint of growl:: Yes, Yb. <Zoya> Why, yes, Marten, I think that's a lovely idea. ::she backs toward the tables, keeping an eye on Yb at all times:: <Rhys> Yb, can I get you anything? * Marten places Zoya's glass on the table, and takes Zoya's hand, kissing it. "Wonderful then, love. You can tell me about your day." He sits, taking a sip of his wine, facing the bar. * Zoya sits, also facing the bar, and takes a rather deep drink of her cider. "Um..." <Lisl> Yb? ::prying an arm free and tapping her on the shoulder from behind:: * Yb promptly cuts a piece of venison, picks it up with the fork and offers it to Lisl, "Here you are fuzzy." * Lisl looks dubious, but isn't about to argue with meat. ::munch, munch, much:: <Zoya> ::drags her attention away from Yb and Lisl and looks at Marten:: Lisl's experiment worked. After some effort. I've got my Chains. ::holds up an arm to display the glowing silvery manacle wrapped around her wrist:: <Marten> ::smiles:: I noticed. As much as I was opposed to the idea, they do look quite appropriate. ::he smiles, and reaches to run a finger across them:: Appropriate, and oddly attractive, love. * Lisl , looking over Yb as she eats her steak, nearly chokes on a piece at Marten's comment. <Zoya> ::blushes slightly:: Thank you. Though I didn't have much to do with the way they look. It was all I could do to get the stuff to accept the general shape I wanted. It kept wanting to go the rest of the way up my arms and make bracers. * Yb continues to feed Lisl. <Marten> ::notices Lisl's reaction, and blushes at the ears:: Well, they *are*. They make you look more powerful, despite the connotation associated with them. They make you... they make you stand taller, I think. <Marten> ::shakes his head:: Of course, the problems with the forging are probably due to the magical nature of the metal, and their former shape for so many years. <Lisl> ::chewing quickly, and swallowing:: Why Marten, I didn't know you were into *that.* What do they teach you boys in Kara-Tur? <Zoya> ::laughs:: Like I need to be taller! <Marten> ::smiles at Lisl:: I'm sure you're dying to know now, Lisl. I'll be checking outside of my room later tonight... <Marten> ::turns back to Zoya:: Not physically, of course. You just seem more confident with them on. Since you've been so tired, I hadn't noticed that yet. * Lisl blushes to the ears, herself, and goes back to eating. <Zoya> ::smiles:: I suppose so. I used to hope I'd never have them, but I spent over twenty years training for them. They feel... Right. <Marten> ::nods:: And they look right, too. ::he smiles:: Have I told you that I'm proud of you, Zoya? You're an amazingly strong woman. I'm proud to know you, and call you my friend. * Zoya blushes, and covers the flusters with a drink from her mug. <Marten> ::looks at Zoya, a little confused:: I don't mean to embarrass, love. It's just that... I am surprised. You've surprised me many times since we've met, Zoya, and this ordeal has only made me admire you more. * Rhys freshens Yb's cuppa joe. <Marten> ::he reaches for her chin, and lifts her head to look in her eyes:: Do not be ashamed for who you are, love. * Lisl points with her free hand at her mug, looks appealingly at Rhys, and mimes drinking motions. * Rhys understands, and refills Lisl's mug with mulekick. <Zoya> ::takes a deep breath and smiles at Marten:: Thank you. It's just... been a long time since I've been in anyone's spotlight. ::She leans forward and kisses his cheek, then leans back into her chair.:: So. How was *your* day? * Lisl whimpers a little, and grabs at thin air, trying to reach her mug. * Rhys pushes Lisl's mug so it's within her reach. * Lisl sighs happily, grabs it, and downs half its contents in one long swallow. * Marten smiles. "Uneventful. I spent most of it wandering through the marketplace, shopping for you, honestly." * Zoya watches Lisl and Yb, uneasily amused. "More herbal remedies? I told you, I'm much better." * Yb jumps back on her stool, rifles through her papers till she finds a blank section and then starts sketching something with her pencil. * Lisl sighs heavily at her sudden release, nearly collapsing off her stool. She quickly grabs her plate and mug and moves down a few stools. <Lisl> ::glancing roofward:: Thank you, Aerdrie. Any boon you ask, it's yours. * Zoya lifts her mug. "Lisl, come and join us!" <Marten> ::shakes his head:: "No, not herbal remedies. I know you're better. I think that, without Lisl there to stop you, you would have come here days ago." <Zoya> ::laughs:: That's what I've been *saying*. <Marten> ::takes another sip from his wine glass, his opposite hand in his pocket:: * Lisl looks over, glancing from Zoya to Marten, and smiling slightly. She waves a hand. "In a moment. Let me finish eating so I don't disgust you with my table manners." <Zoya> ::cocks her head at Marten curiously:: What, then? * Yb tilts her head in thought for a moment, then turns to Rhys and Lisl, "Have any of you seen my pet recently?" <Lisl> ::slicing off a rather large hunk of meat and popping it into her mouth neatly, the expression on her face blissful.:: Rhys, this is amazing. Just name your feastday. <Lisl> ::glancing at Yb, and frowning:: Pet? What, you mean the invisible one? No, I've not seen him. <Rhys> Your... pet? * Yb blinks, "I don't think he was invisible last time I brought him here. He's about the size of on the mugs, and he's got the cutest wings and tail. I had him on a leash for a while but he got away." Yb starts to pout. <Rhys> And, Lisl, as the supplier of the feast, it seems only fitting for you to partake of the choicest cuts. * Rhys furrows his brow and looks at Yb. "I don't think I recall seeing you with this... pet." <Lisl> ::chuckles:: Hey, I just supply the raw materials. You make the magic. <Lisl> ::thinking:: He sort of....blinked in and out, didn't he, Yb? Not everything likes being chained up, you know. ::unable to restrain a glance at Zoya:: * Yb looks at Zoya, "Zoya have you seen my pet?" <Zoya> ::blinks at Yb:: I don't think so, Yb. Where was the last place you left it? <Yb> Here. Has anyone seen Xarroch, I bet he can find him. <Zoya> Xarroch's probably down with the Blood Wars right now. We haven't seen him for ages. <Lisl> ::snorting:: Down with the Blood Wars. You make it sound like a disease. ::sawing off another hunk:: <Zoya> ::shrugs:: Have you ever *seen* them? They *look* like a disease. <Lisl> Well...it's a war. What do you expect, with demons? They're messy. <Lisl> ::cutting off another slice and chewing with relish:: <Marten> ::turns to Zoya:: They let her keep pets? <Zoya> ::grins at him:: Who's going to stop her? * Lisl taking another swallow of 'kick. * Yb walks over to Zoya and Marten's table, "May I have a seat." Yb's eyes seem to slide everywhere except to Zoya and Marten's faces. * Lisl finishes her dinner and picks up her mug of 'kick to walk over to Zoya and Marten's table, freezing as Yb beats her there. * Zoya looks at Marten, then back at Yb, then sighs, resigned. "By all means, have a seat." Zoya takes a deep drink of cider. * Yb quietly sits down and studies her hands for a few moments. <Yb> Zoya... Do you think you could help me? * Lisl bites her lip and watches Yb, standing halfway between bar and table. <Marten> ::looks at Yb:: Help with what? <Zoya> ::looks at Marten, then across the room at Lisl, then at Yb:: Um... Maybe, Yb. What's the matter? <Yb> Well...::Yb starts wringing her hands::... you see... I'm... I'm not... I'm not really a chaos mage. <Lisl> ::Lisl's eyebrows attempt to take shelter in her hairline:: <Zoya> You're not? ::Zoya's voice is calm and soothing, but the look she projects at Lisl is at least half panic:: <Yb> ::Yb's staff bursts into a coreolus of light and flame.:: * Zoya jumps back away from the staff. "What the-!" * Rhys snaps both hands to a ready position, but does nothing yet. <Yb> ::Yb screams, but is cut off by a spasm that shakes her body and drops her to the floor unconscious.:: * Lisl takes several quick steps forward, dropping to Yb's side and kicking the staff away from her hand. <Yb> ::The light and flame vanish as quickly as they appeared and the staff drops to the floor, rolling to a stop beside Yb.:: <Lisl> That wasn't-- I don't think she did that, Zoya. It was the staff... Rhys? Some help, here? <Zoya> ::Without thinking about it, Zoya jumps out of her chair and kneels on the floor next to Yb, checking her physical vitals:: <Zoya> ::quietly:: Yes, I think you're right, Lisl. ::starts lightly slapping Yb's face:: Come on, Yb... Wake up... * Lisl growls in pain, drawing her foot back from the staff and hopping a little. * Rhys reaches under the counter and puts on a black velvet glove that covers his hand past the wrist. He closes the wrist clasp, and a ghostly blue-grey phantom hand appears about a foot in front of his hand. He walks around the bar, and stretches his arm out. The hand floats over, picks up Yb's staff, begins to strobe across the color palette, and then carries the staff across the hall and rests it in the corner. <Yb> ::Yb's staff rolls away a short distance, then rolls back as if it had been rolled up a hill.:: <Zoya> ::The glow of Zoya's manacles begins to pulse slightly, but Zoya ignores it.:: <Lisl> ::giving the staff a venomous glance:: That.... hurt. ::her eyes are yellow, and she shakes her head as if to clear it:: Is she alright, Zoya? <Zoya> I think so. She seems to just be unconscious. ::sighs:: I can't check her magically. <Lisl> ::softly, glancing at the staff again:: Could she be right? Could... could the staff be doing it all? * Rhys leans over, picks Yb up with a grunt of effort, and laboriously carries her over to a chair by the hearth. * Yb surges up clawing at Zoya. <Yb> ::A moment later Yb pulls away with the surge sphere.:: * Lisl starts to follow Rhys and hisses as her foot hits the ground, losing her balance and collapsing into a nearby chair. * Yb collapses to the floor with a flash of light. <Yb> ::The surge sphere rolls along to floor stopping at Zoya's feet. Yb is rocking herself on the floor cradling her staff.:: * Yb sobs inconsolably, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry..." * Zoya stands shocked, looking at Yb. Slowly, she bends over and retrieves her holy symbol. * Zoya continues staring at Yb. "That poor girl..." <Marten> ::shakes his head, and sighs:: Is there anything you can do for her, Zoya? <Lisl> ::crosses her injured foot over her knee, and pulls off her boot:: "I've gone through more footwear this month, I swear..." ::The toes beneath are seared and blistered, as if she'd held a hot iron to them:: <Zoya> ::sighs and shakes her head:: Certainly not without my powers. And even when my powers are back, I'd have to get a good look at that staff... And I don't think it would let me do that. <Lisl> No, I think not. ::her voice is rough:: Where did she get that thing, anyway? <Marten> ::looks at Yb's staff:: It does seem to protect itself, doesn't it? * Rhys returns behind the counter, rummages around for a bit, and comes up with a little pot of a whitish paste. "Lisl, this might help." He puts it on the bar near her. <Zoya> Maybe... With help... ::sighs:: I can't do anything today, anyhow. <Lisl> Not just protect... that damn thing went on the offensive. Thanks, Rhys. ::pulling the pot towards her and taking a long swig of 'kick before dipping her fingers into the pot and touching them gingerly to her foot. A deep growl rumbles from her chest:: * Marten places a hand on Zoya's shoulder. "I'm sorry. Please, don't think it a shortcoming, dear. I'm not sure anyone can help. I was just thinking, after all you've been through..." He allows the sentence to remain unfinished, and looks at his wine. * Lisl puts down her mug and grips her foot firmly while she applies the salve, gritting her teeth. * Marten looks at Zoya, finally. "If anyone could, love, I think it would be you." <Lisl> ::sighing as the salve kicks in:: Not perfect, but it'll do. Ah, Yb, what're we going to do with you, girl? * Zoya smiles at Marten. "I'm much *more* powerful now - or will be, when my powers return. I'm not, by any stretch of the imagination, *all*-powerful." <Lisl> ::muttering:: Damn good thing, too. * Yb rolls to her feet and walks over to Marten. <Yb> What happens when the hunter becomes the hunted? <Marten> ::shakes his head:: I don't think you'd need to be all powerful. Just powerful and cunning. After all, it is... there is only so much it can do. <Zoya> Well, when I have my powers back, I'll take a look. Right now, I can't even *see* the magic in it, much less begin to fathom how it works. <Lisl> ::snorts:: I can answer that one. The hunter lives in a sewer for three weeks. <Marten> ::looks at Yb, slightly nervous:: What? <Yb> What happens when the hunter becomes the hunted? * Zoya looks at Yb sharply. * Marten tries to smile. "What do you mean, Yb?" <Yb> "It's a simple question, 'What happens when the hunter becomes the hunted?'" <Lisl> Answer it then, Yb, if it's such a simple question. ::flexing her foot gingerly:: * Yb looks straight into Marten's eyes, "Well..." <Lisl> ::looking up quickly at the considering tone in Yb's voice:: * Rhys returns behind the bar, takes the glove off, and stashes it back under the bar. * Zoya reaches as if to tough Marten's arm, then stops, looking back and forth from him to Yb. * Marten stands slowly, carrying his wine glass in his hand. "I'm not sure what you're implying, Yb." <Lisl> ::warningly:: Yb...that's not Moon Dancer. It's Marten, remember? Marten? * Yb pats Marten's shoulder, "Remember the god of your fathers, for the battle draws near, and if you forget the ancestral hosts, in another's dominion will you lay." * Marten places his glass on the bar, and smiles at Rhys. "When you have the chance, Rhys. A little more." * Yb turns and walks to the bar where she perches on a stool and has some of her neglected drink. <Rhys> Of course... Marten. ::refills Marten's wine glass:: * Zoya blinks after her, muttering. "Damn. Of all the times to be without my power... I haven't the slightest idea if that were True or mere ravings..." * Marten looks at Yb. His eyes narrow, and his face turns stern. "Careful, child. You speak about things you do not understand, and could never hope to understand." <Lisl> ::glancing at Zoya with a frown:: True? I could hear the capital in there...what do you mean? <Lisl> ::raising an eyebrow at Marten:: Even if she didn't understand it, it's obvious *you* did. What does it mean? <Zoya> ::glances at Lisl and grins weakly:: The mad *are* occasionally given to prophecy, Lisl. <Marten> ::Marten looks at Lisl, and gives her a decidedly "Not NOW" look:: * Yb puts her drink down and looks at Marten, "People always speak so, with clouded eyes and tainted lips. Even though the truth is always within them." <Marten> ::Marten laughs at Yb:: Truth? *You* speak of the truth? What do you know of the truth? <Lisl> ::the look Lisl gives back to Marten promises a most definite "LATER." * Rhys coughs. * Zoya sits at the table, watching Yb and Marten with a kind of horrified fascination. * Yb rises from her stool, walks over and pats Marten's cheek. "Far more than you'd imagine, and possibly more than you can comprehend. Seek out Bai. His patron is Truth. He can show you that which lies within you." * Yb walks to the door and exits, leaving her papers strewn across the bar. <Rhys> Yb. Marten. Drink? * Marten watches Yb leave the Hall, and smiles, shaking his head. "She is truly insane, isn't she?" * Lisl narrows her eyes, gaze darting from Marten and Yb and back, finally settling on Marten. "Not always, she isn't." <Marten> ::picks up the drink Rhys placed on the bar, and empties it:: Thank you, Rhys. * Zoya is staring after Yb. "I... Don't know." <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, then to Zoya. He looks confused, and speaks to Zoya:: What? What did I do? <Lisl> You knew what she was talking about. ::the tone of her voice leaves no room for argument:: * Zoya stares out the door after Yb for a few seconds longer, then shakes her head and looks back at Marten. "Do? You didn't do anything. What *she* did..." She sighs. "Of all the times to be powerless." * Marten turns to Lisl. "I can only guess, Lisl. I was trying to force her hand, seeing how deep her insanity runs. I assumed she meant something of my lost memories, but I can't be sure." <Zoya> The advice about talking to Bai might be good, though. * Lisl shakes her head slowly. "You...knew. What she was talking about. <Marten> No, Lisl. I didn't. Please... ::he sits down:: After all we've built upon, I ask you to trust me in this. I didn't know, and still don't know what she was talking about. <Lisl> ::shakes her head again, more quickly this time:: You don't understand. You may not know what she meant now, but *something* in you did. Just like something in you spoke those words to Zoya when she collapsed last week...the words *you* don't understand. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl for a few moments, stunned by the idea:: I... I don't understand... <Lisl> No, you didn't. I didn't understand them either. Nor did Glossaria, and I don't doubt she knows every language in Faerun by now, and several outside it. * Zoya nods thoughtfully, laying a comforting hand on Marten's arm. <Rhys> Drinks, anyone? <Zoya> I could use a refill, Rhys... ::Gets up and walks over to the bar to hand Rhys her mug:: * Rhys takes Zoya's mug, fills it with cider, and hands it back. <Zoya> My thanks! ::She returns to her seat, sipping her cider:: <Lisl> ::Frowning hard, like she has pieces of the puzzle in her hand and can't make them fit:: And when you fought...when you were half-asleep, and sparred...you weren't... your reach was...::shakes her head:: that wasn't you, either. * Marten frowns, and looks from Lisl to Zoya. He looks increasingly upset. "No, Lisl. I don't doubt I said what you remember, and you're right about our sparring. I... I have memories in my head that are mine, but somehow aren't..." <Lisl> There was....there was something else, too...something that came to me later, that was...it didn't fit. Dammit, I wish Gloss were here...she would remember. <Lisl> ::rubbing her forehead with her fingers:: Something... something about the philosophy.... <Marten> ::looks down, then steels himself:: There are things I can't remember, Lisl, and memories I can't yet place, too. * Zoya takes Marten's hand in hers, trying to comfort him. <Lisl> ::distracted, looking up:: Things you...can't remember? <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: But, what of it? There is little I can do about the memories I don't understand, and even less I can do about the things I cannot remember. * Marten takes Zoya's hand, and holds it tightly, using it as an anchor. <Lisl> ::frustrated:: This could be important, Marten. How do you know those people are hunting you just because you escaped? What if it's because of something *else* you know, that you don't know? ::shaking her head:: Ooh, this is making my head hurt. How many times did you refill this, Rhys? ::taking a sip from her mug:: * Rhys quickly counts. "Three or four times. I trust you to cut yourself off." He grins. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: How do I know? I don't. I have no way of knowing for sure, save allowing them to take me back. I won't allow that. ::he looks at Zoya:: I can't allow that, now. <Lisl> ::rubbing the back of her neck:: That might not have been so wise, with tonight's... distractions. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: No, I wasn't suggesting that. But... ::kicking a chair with her injured foot, and yipping:: thrice damn it, I hate not knowing! <Marten> ::sighs, and walks over to Lisl, placing a hand on her shoulder:: As do I, good friend. But, if I can cope with not knowing for now, can't you? <Zoya> ::smiles at Marten somewhat sadly:: We won't allow it, Marten. <Zoya> ::sighs:: But I do wish we could find out what happened to your memories... <Lisl> ::peering up at him peevishly:: Maybe. ::sarcastically:: But then again, you've got decades of experience at this, where I-- ::sitting up straight:: THAT'S IT! That was IT! <Marten> ::walks back to Zoya, and crouches to his knee, embracing her:: We will, love. *We* will, all of us. <Zoya> ::opens her eyes wide:: What? <Rhys> Lisl? * Marten looks at Lisl. "What's it?" <Lisl> ::pointing at Marten, gaping a little as she shakes her finger, trying to articulate the flash she just had:: You said...you said.... * Rhys peers at the level of 'kick still in Lisl's mug. <Marten> ::tries not to laugh at Lisl's stuttering:: Yes? * Zoya looks bewildered. <Lisl> Dammit, what did you say? We were-- I had questions about that War book, about the Tao... <Marten> Yes. I remember. <Lisl> And we talked about Nothing, how there's always Nothing and Something...and....and.... <Lisl> That was it! ::looking very pleased with herself:: I *knew* there was something wrong, when I thought about it later. You said you'd been doing this for *years*! But 'Dancer only left six or seven months ago! <Lisl> You *can't* be 'Dancer! Not entirely, anyway! <Zoya> I thought we'd already figured that out, Lisl. * Marten looks at Lisl for several moments, not sure what to say. After Zoya speaks, he looks at her, and smiles. "Yes. I think we did." <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: No, no, you don't understand...I mean, not 'Dancer at *all!* It means Marten *does* have a past...a *long* past! ::growling with frustration:: Oh, why can't you SEE? <Zoya> I know what you're saying, Lisl, but I thought we'd... ::stops and thinks:: Or maybe I didn't mention that. ::grins sheepishly:: We'd been talking about the brotherhood, you see? And it occurred to me that Marten knows entirely too much about them to have learned it all as 'Dancer. <Lisl> ::stares at Zoya openmouthed for a moment before closing her jaw with an audible click:: No, you overlooked that little detail. * Marten remains silent, as the two women debate his memories. <Lisl> So...but...where's the connection, then? 'Dancer's mixed up in this somewhere, I can smell it. <Zoya> Sorry. I was, ah, preoccupied, I guess. But I agree - whatever happened to Moon Dancer is tied up with whatever happened to Marten, but... it's not the *whole* story. Whatever happened to Marten is tied up with whatever happened to 'Dancer, too. * Zoya takes Marten's hand again and stares into his eyes. "And there's got to be a way to find out what happened, and to bring *both* of them back." <Lisl> ::nods vigorously, and puts a hand to her head:: Oooh... hangover. ::grabbing her mug for a quick swallow:: <Marten> ::looks at Zoya, surprised:: Do you want them both back? <Lisl> ::answering before Zoya can:: Hell, yeah. <Zoya> ::blinks:: If it's possible, of course! I love you, Marten, but 'Dancer was a good friend. <Marten> ::sighs:: And what if bringing back one means the other can't stay, Zoya? <Lisl> And 'Dancer is as close as family, but you're a good friend, Marten. ::grinning:: <Lisl> ::chuckling a little and taking another sip:: You're dealing with a wild mage, lad. Don't say "can't." * Zoya looks away. "I... I'm trying not to imagine having to make that choice, Marten." <Marten> ::frowns at Lisl:: I'm just trying to be realistic, Lisl. I can't be optimistic about this... I don't know how, yet. <Lisl> Heh. ::gestures at the Hall:: I gave up trying to be "realistic" a long time ago, Marten. Reality kept surprising me. <Marten> ::tries to smile:: Perhaps you'll have to be optimistic for me then, Lisl. <Zoya> ::takes a ragged breath:: No, Lisl, he's right; it's important to consider all the possibilities. * Marten looks at Zoya. "I don't mean to upset you, love. It's just something... a darkness over my thoughts, you see. Something that's been haunting me." <Lisl> ::chuckles:: Deal, Marten. ::looking at Zoya, and glancing back at Marten:: "Without considering the five things, the general will lose." <Zoya> ::nods:: It's all right. The thought had occurred to me, as well. I just... ::she shrugs and tries to smile:: It's not a pleasant thought. <Lisl> Just realize, Zoya, that we can't consider anything without reliable information to base it on. <Marten> ::he smiles at Lisl:: Still reading, I see. I've been thinking of the same things, Zoya. ::he turns to her:: It's not pleasant in the least, but the image of having to leave... I can't get rid of it. <Zoya> Yes, I know, Lisl. But the amount of reliable information we have is pathetically small. We've got to consider at least *some* of the ways it might fit together and try to prepare for them. <Zoya> ::to Marten, guardedly:: Leaving? <Lisl> ::nodding, and reaching up to tap the side of Marten's head:: I suspect that most of our reliable information is still hiding in here somewhere. We just have to figure out how to make sense of it. <Marten> ::sighs:: The painting, the drawings I've been making... the image just becomes clearer in my mind as the days come. I just don't know if it's a memory just now surfacing or something yet to come. <Lisl> Painting? ::looking lost:: <Marten> ::sighs:: Zoya caught me painting two weeks ago, before her ordeal. I've been trying to forget it, but can't. There's an image... <Lisl> Image? ::looking impatient:: * Zoya stares at the table. "If it must be..." She breaks off and says something in another tongue. <Marten> ::he sighs:: Someone... I'm assuming it's me. Someone standing on the outskirts of a city, with a wolf cub at his side. The sun setting in front of him... <Marten> I don't know what it means, but it makes me uneasy. <Lisl> Well...::sounding determined:: If it's you, you weren't alone. <Rhys> ::quietly:: How do you know the sun isn't rising? * Marten shrugs. "I don't, Rhys. But I haven't been optimistic, and it makes me quite nervous. It doesn't feel like a dawn or an arrival. It feels like a parting." <Lisl> ::Disgustedly:: Marten, I haven't known you to be adventurous or optimistic since you *got* here. Every jump you took, you've been pushed. ::glancing guiltily at Zoya:: * Zoya suddenly picks up her mug and takes a deep drink, then pulls a hand across her eyes. She continues to stare at the table. <Marten> I know, Lisl. That... it makes me nervous. I don't know what would make me leave Marsember, especially now. ::he places his hand on Zoya's shoulder, and pulls his chair closer to hers:: I'm hoping it's a memory. A persistent memory. <Lisl> Just...::taking a deep breath:: Don't start leaping before you look now, alright? * Zoya glances up quickly and gives Marten a quick, weak smile. <Marten> ::he smiles at Lisl:: I won't, and I don't plan to go alone if I do leave. <Lisl> ::nods shortly:: Good. It wouldn't do to have you sneaking off when we're all trying to protect you. Make us look bad. ::quirking a small smile in return:: <Marten> ::he smiles, and looks at Zoya before continuing:: Lisl, Rhys... It seems I've upset my lady, and I have many wounds to heal before the night is over. ::he stands, and offers his hand to Zoya:: Milady, my ... love. Let me take you home, and we will talk of more pleasant things. <Rhys> Good evening then, Marten. Have a pleasant evening. <Marten> ::he nods to Rhys:: Thank you for opening your doors to such sour company as mine this evening. Next time, I will try to bring happier times. <Zoya> ::takes a deep breath, collecting herself:: All right. Yes. ::She takes Marten's hand and stands:: Yes, let's go home. <Lisl> Good evening, Marten, Zoya. Zoya, are you sure you won't need a ride? ::a wicked glint in her eye:: <Zoya> ::chuckles at Lisl:: I repose full faith in Marten to get me home in one piece, Mother Dearest. <Lisl> Very well. ::grinning as she stands, the grin fading as she puts a hand on Marten's arm:: I'm trusting you with her, then. ::her tone implying a lot more than the walk home:: <Marten> ::he tries to smile at Zoya:: I will do my best. And, I am truly sorry, Zoya, for bringing this up tonight. <Zoya> ::sighs, and smiles slightly:: No, Marten. It had to be brought up at some time, I know. <Marten> True enough. But, my timing left something to be desired. ::he walks toward the door, opening it for Zoya:: <Lisl> ::shaking her head:: Hey, it's good to know you've got *some* character flaws to work on, m'boy. * Zoya precedes Marten out the door. * Marten follows, and can be heard trying to apologize into the night... * Lisl chuckles. * Rhys begins fetching the dirty glasses and nudging them toward the kitchen. "Interesting night, eh Lisl?" * Lisl lifts her mug, looks at it, and sets it down again with a sigh. "Okay, I know *my* limit." <Lisl> That's one word for it, Rhys. ::shaking her head:: If Moon Dancer walked through that door this moment, I think I'd run him through, honestly. * Rhys banks the fire down for the night. <Lisl> Except that it wouldn't get any of these questions answered... ::sighs:: <Rhys> Understandable. Go home and get some sleep. Everything's better after a good night's sleep. <Lisl> Right. ::standing up and putting her full weight on her injured foot, letting out a yelp like a dog who's gotten her tail caught in a door:: <Lisl> Um...I forgot. Dammit, the things I do for my friends. Maybe I could stay here for the night, Rhys? <Rhys> Careful with that! Maybe you'll want to stay in for a while, and give that a chance to heal up. <Rhys> Of course. Right on up the stairs, and take whichever you want, I think we're all vacant at the moment. <Lisl> I think you're right. ::shaking her head and limping slowly up the stairs, complaining all the way:: Maybe I'm getting too old for this.... <Lisl> I hate being injured. How the hell do humans stand it? <Rhys> Infinite patience. And lack of a better alternative. * Rhys locks the front door with his arcane key, dims the lamps in the main room, and heads back to the kitchen to clean up for the night. <Lisl> ::sighs:: Good point. ::pausing at the top of the steps for a few deep breaths, gritting her teeth before continuing down the hall.:: 'Night, Rhys! * Lisl disappears into a room. <Rhys> ::from out of the kitchen, Rhys calls:: Night, Lisl. |
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