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* Michelle sits at one of the tables, a cup of cocoa in her hands, staring off into space. * Tyl walks in. She is wearing a dark brown and gold brocade gown, her hair done up in an elaborate coif. * Zoya enters, a small crystal ball in her hand. "Ah, Michelle, good. And Tyl - good to see you!" She heads over to the table and sits down. * Michelle glances up at Zoya and Tyl, "What's the occasion Tyl'gainia?" <Tyl> Oh, ::sits down, spreading the gown gracefully as she does:: I just came from lunch. * Michelle quirks an eyebrow, "Jelarthna must have taken you someplace really special." <Michelle> Can I get either one of you anything? <Tyl> Hmmm? Oh, no. I had lunch at Loraan's manor house. * Zoya glances into her crystal ball, then looks back at Michelle. "No, thank you." <Zoya> ::looks at Tyl:: Loraan's? Really? <Michelle> Still trying to convince him that you're not interested? <Tyl> Hmmmm? ::she smiles softly:: Actually, he's very... interesting. <Michelle> ::a look of concern enters Michelle's eyes:: When did you decide that? <Zoya> ::frowns briefly at Tyl:: <Tyl> ::looks misty-eyed:: We've had lunch a few times together. And we went horseback riding yesterday. * Michelle sighs, "So what about Jelarthna?" <Tyl> ::blinks and seems to come back to herself:: What about him? ::she flicks a bit of imaginary dust from her dress:: <Michelle> So you're not in love with him anymore? <Tyl> Oh? ::looks briefly confused:: I guess... I hadn't really seen much of him recently. * Zoya looks into her crystal ball, then back up. Her eyes are a little pale. * Michelle catches Zoya's glance, a look of hope entering her eyes, "Zoya, please tell me that thing can track that bitch." * Tyl hums under her breath, looking absent-minded and happy. <Zoya> ::blinks at Michelle, then looks down at the ball:: This? ::she laughs briefly:: It's for keeping an eye on Glossaria. Kevil seems to think she's... ::glances at Tyl:: ...not quite herself. After watching her for a few days, I think I agree with him. ::she glances at Tyl again:: You think it's the girl? * Michelle sighs, "I spoke to Glossaria yesterday. She's emotionally blank. Absolutely nothing. Not even apathy. About the only spark I sensed in her was arousal when she propositioned me." <Zoya> ::nods:: I thought that might be the case. I saw her talking with you, but I can't hear anything on this. ::she considers:: Damn. I owe Kevil a forfeit. * Michelle sips her cocoa, "I tried projecting a few emotions into her. She STARTED remembering Vallel. For a moment I sensed how beautiful her love for him is. Then it vanished, like something had locked it away where no one could find it." <Zoya> ::sighs:: I didn't know it was *that* bad. You think it's the girl? * Michelle looks into Zoya's eyes, "That girl's under some kind of compulsion, and I'm betting it's Charoli. And I'm betting Glossaria's not the only one." * Michelle leans back in her chair, "If you've got any other suggestions for all of this," gestures at Tyl, "I'm all ears." * Tyl seems unaware of the conversation around her. Her eyes are vague and she's wearing a dreamy smile, absently polishing a sapphire ring on one finger with a corner of her gown. <Tyl> hm? * Zoya glances at Tyl, and nods. "Lisl was talking to me yesterday about having tried to track her down, but she's managed to even foil Lisl's nose. That got me thinking about some possible alternatives..." <Michelle> Hell Zoya, I've spent more than one night scouring the entire damn planet for her. She's either disguising her aura, or living underground at this point. * Michelle leans forward, "Can you trace the compulsions back to their source? It's the only other thing I've been able to think of. I know I can't do it. I was hoping the two of you could." Glances at Tyl, "Looks like she thought of that dodge though." <Zoya> ::glances into the crystal ball, then looks back at Michelle:: Tyl and I did some work a while back on the exchange of magical and psionic energy. I think, with very little work, that I can adapt what we've learned so that I can pinpoint psionic energy usage. Most of that is going to be at the school, and it shouldn't be too much effort to check out the other places. <Zoya> And if she drops whatever she's using to disguise herself... ::grins:: Then Lisl, I'm sure, will be more than happy to help us track her by more mundane methods. * Tyl looks over at Zoya and smiles. * Michelle sighs, "That's a new wrinkle to everything. Meghan has to complete a quest of Sissra, and she needs Kevil's and my help." <Tyl> Did I tell you Codex is going to be teaching a guest lecture? He's going to teach an ethics and morality class. * Michelle meets Zoya's gaze, "You all MIGHT need my help dealing with Charoli. Meghan WILL need my help with this quest. And she can't wait for us to clear all of this up." * Zoya looks at Michelle and raises an eyebrow:: *Kevil*'s help? Really? ::she laughs:: Well, if it can't be helped, it can't be helped. When will you be leaving? <Zoya> ::to Tyl:: Will he? That's very nice of him. * Michelle shakes her head, "I don't know. Meghan's directions are more of an intuitive trail than anything we can plan ahead for." <Tyl> Very nice. We had a bit of a row, you know. He thought I was using my school as a cover for a thieves' guild. ::laughs:: * Michelle turns to Tyl and sighs again, "So has he finished his report yet?" <Zoya> ::to Michelle again:: I think if we can locate her, we can deal with her. I've fought psionics before. If it will make you feel better, I'll give you a contact rod that will let you know if we need you, and you can follow the moontrail back. Kevil's more than competent enough to take care of her for a night, or even a couple of days. <Zoya> ::to Tyl:: Really? ::grins:: Are you? <Tyl> Not in the slightest... ::smiles again:: I haven't stolen anything in months... <Zoya> Really? ::chuckles:: Are you feeling quite well? * Michelle shakes her head, "She's a developing natural empath Zoya. She's going to need something constant that she can cling to for a while....Given her recent past, I don't think Kevil's the best choice." <Tyl> ::blinks and seems to come all the way back to herself:: I feel fine. But, seriously, Zoya... no matter what color justification we put on it, thieves steal for one of two reasons... money or excitement. And I've got all the money and excitement I could need just doing what I'm doing. The School has been my dream for such a long time. <Zoya> ::chuckles:: I know - I'm just teasing. Tyl, do you think you could help me in a day or two? I'm going to be trying a new spell along the lines of the magic/psionic split we were working earlier. I'd like you to help me test it. <Zoya> ::to Michelle:: No? Why not? * Michelle examines Zoya for a few moments then shakes her head, "You'll have to tell me about your home world some day." <Tyl> Aside from *that*, Jelarthna doesn't approve of it... ::shakes her head suddenly:: What were you saying? ::her eyes get a bit misty again:: * Michelle looks over at Tyl a spark of hope in her eyes, "So what has Jelarthna been up to recently?" <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: Certainly. But I don't understand why you don't think Kevil would be a good choice of companion. He's not an idiot, and he's not dishonorable. He would never take advantage of someone whose emotional state was... muddled. <Tyl> ::waves a hand dismissively:: He went looking for Temire... ::her eyes cloud up suddenly with pain:: He wrote poems about her. * Michelle sighs, "I'm just worried...It all seems to make sense at the time." <Zoya> ::quietly, to Michelle:: I think it best if we take care of the outside influence. It's obvious she can't fight it on her own. <Zoya> ::to Tyl:: Can you help me test a new spell later this week, Tyl? * Michelle looks at Tyl in shock and then rests her head on the table, "I want that bitch's heart in my hand so I can dance on it for a few hours." <Tyl> ::looks over at Michelle:: Temire's? Can I have a bite first? ::shakes her head, then swallows hard:: Um.. spell... psionics... sure. What are we doing? * Michelle looks up at Zoya, "I don't know what I can do to help. I can try doing the same thing to her that I did to Glossaria, but it didn't work." <Zoya> ::lays a comforting hand on Michelle's shoulder:: I'm going to make a spell to detect psionics in use, Tyl. I'd like you to help me test it. <Tyl> Oh... ::blinks:: I can do that, but the range is really limited. <Zoya> Range? The range of what, Tyl? <Tyl> Feel someone using psionic energy... I have to concentrate on it, naturally, but I can only feel it out to about thirty paces or so. <Zoya> Ah. Well, maybe you can show me how that works. I'd like to expand the range with magic. Tie it to a scrying spell, somehow. <Tyl> ::completely out of the blue:: Did you know that Vallel is drinking again? He dragged himself back to the school this afternoon. <Tyl> He missed all his classes today. <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: Did he? Why is he drinking? * Michelle sighs, "Damn he's good at hiding it. I was convinced he wasn't being influenced." <Tyl> Hmmm? I don't know. He's got a nasty bruise on his forehead. I asked him if he'd been fighting again and he said not. * Zoya looks at Michelle, eyes entirely silver. "I promise, we'll throw in a few extra stomps for you." <Tyl> Why are we trying to detect psionic use? ::looking back at Zoya:: <Zoya> ::eyes Tyl, considering:: ...Research. * Michelle smiles ferally at Zoya, "Thank you. Maybe I'll give Lisl a pair of tap shoes before I leave. Somehow the stiletto heals just don't seem appropriate." <Zoya> ::nods:: <Tyl> Research? Sure... I can help with research. Always good to explore the realms of cooperation between psionics and magic. ::blinks:: Wrote poetry about her. ::she draws a hissing breath:: * Michelle glances at Zoya, "She seems to be putting up more of a fight than Glossaria, should I give it a try?" <Zoya> ::considers:: If you don't think it will hurt her if it fails, go ahead. <Tyl> What? What are you doing? ::looks suddenly hostile at Michelle, her face twisting around with conflicting emotions:: * Michelle looks at Tyl and in as comforting a voice as she can manage says, "Just thinking about how I should punish Temire." <Tyl> Oh... ::blinks:: What did she do? ::her head rocks back suddenly as if she was slapped, then her eyes cloud over again:: Did I tell you I'm going to get married? * Zoya sighs, almost unaware that she'd let herself hope. Quietly, she says, "Ah, well. The other way, then." A little louder, "You go ahead with Meghan and Kevil. Try to take care of them. We'll hold the-" She spins to look at Tyl. "You're WHAT?" * Michelle smiles and takes Tyl's hand, "That's wonderful Tyl'gainia. Tell me all about the proposal." <Tyl> ::nods, her face looking happy, but her eyes look trapped and frightened. She seems unaware that a tear is leaking from one eye:: Loraan wants me to be a Baroness... * Zoya stares at Tyl for a moment, then stands and paces to the bar. * Michelle holds Tyl's gaze rubbing her hand, "So did he just ask, or did he do something romantic?" * Zoya leans against the bar, head in her hands. <Tyl> Well ::she continues to cry, soundlessly:: he sent me a letter a few weeks back, you know, after donating all those things to the school. He thought it would be a good match, with lots of political considerations. My star is rising, he says, and that my school will be a force to be reckoned with in city politics. * Michelle reaches out and wipes the tears from one of Tyl's cheeks, "You told us that, but I thought you had turned him down." <Tyl> Which didn't seem too interesting to me at first, ::blinks several times:: I... I... wrote him back telling him that much as I was flattered by his offer, I would have to decline because my heart was... but then, we had lunch together. <Tyl> We danced together, you know, at the Mayor's party... ::her eyes mist over again:: and he... ::blinks:: what? What am I saying? Who am I? * Michelle places a finger on Tyl's lips, "Shh...Who do you love?" <Tyl> ::suddenly plunges both hands into her hair, pulling the coif askew:: I... no, I... get out! get out! get out! leave me alone! ::she screams, pulling at her hair:: * Michelle jumps up and wraps her arms around Tyl. * Zoya leans over the bar and rummages around underneath. When she comes up, she's got a shotglass in her hand that's half-filled with an almost oily clear liquid. She glances back at Michelle and Tyl, closes her eyes, and slings back the liquor. * Tyl starts screaming in a strange, snarling language, pushing at Michelle. * Michelle tightens her embrace, "Shh...Tyl'gainia, everything we'll be alright. We're here for you. You can fight it. Just remember...remember..." * Zoya watches Michelle and Tyl with something like horror. <Tyl> Let me go you bitch! ::slaps Michelle with all the strength she can muster, then something seems to break in her face:: Oh... oh my god. What... what have I done? Oh god! ::starts sobbing wildly:: * Tyl falls to her knees, clutching at her head. "I'm so sorry, Michelle... please... sorry... didn't mean to..." <Michelle> Michelle rocks backwards from the blow, tears streaking her own face, but promptly gathers Tyl back up in the hug. <Michelle> Shh...It's alright Tyl'gainia...it's alright...::rubs Tyl's back.:: * Tyl leans into Michelle, trying to pull herself together. <Tyl> Ow! ::looks at her wrist:: Did I hurt you? I think I sprained my wrist. What the bloody HELL is going on around here? * Zoya looks up with something like hope wavering in the terror in her eyes. "T...Tyl? 'Syou?" * Michelle continues to comfort Tyl, "I'll be alright Tyl'gainia." Loosens her embrace so she can look into Tyl's eyes, "Who do you love?" <Tyl> ::promptly, with no hesitation:: Jelarthna. ::blinks a few times:: But he... * Michelle gets a very determined look in her eyes, and it's present in her voice when she speaks, "Jelarthna is being manipulated just like Vallel, Glossaria, and you were. I just hope that bitch didn't get her claws into Temire, or that Aldis can keep Temire from doing something monumentally stupid." <Zoya> ::slurring:: 'sh too far aw- away, 'chelle... <Tyl> ::looks horrified suddenly:: They *know* each other. Temire, I mean. WE TOOK THEM OUT TOGETHER! <Michelle> I know Tyl'gainia. That's why we need your help. I can warn Aldis to keep an eye on Temire, and to detain or divert Jelarthna if he shows up, but Zoya's going to need your help if we're going to track Charoli down and put an end to this. * Lisl swings open the front door, rapping her knuckles briefly on it as she enters. "Zoya? Gloss said I could find you here. Is she alright? She was asking me if I liked women...what in all the HELLS has been going ON in here?" <Tyl> ::looks down at her hands, her wrist already swelling:: Oh, dear... I was... did I... oh hells. * Zoya tries to walk toward Michelle and Tyl, stumbles, and falls heavily to the floor just as Lisl comes in. "Ow... Lishl?" She looks up at her friend. "How can you drink that... shwill?" * Michelle gently takes Tyl's wrist in her hands and a soft white glow encompasses them. <Lisl> ZOYA!? ::helping her to her feet, and waving a hand in front of her nose as she catches a whiff of her breath:: Have you been into the mulekick? What in Aerdrie's name is going on, is everyone INSANE?" <Tyl> Damn! Damn damn. Look at this! ::jerks her hand away from Michelle to point to a large sapphire ring on one hand:: Look at this! <Zoya> ::dumbly lets Lisl pick her up:: Glossaria... and Tyl... 'chelle and Meg-Meghan and Kevil... ::she sighs:: 'chelle... can you shober me up again? * Michelle calmly takes Tyl's hand and slips the ring off her finger, "We can wash it in mulekick and return it. If that doesn't annul the proposal, you and Jelarthna can just elope." <Tyl> ::looks a combination of upset, relieved, and confused:: But he never... Jelarthna never said... ::clears her throat:: Jelarthna has never proposed to me. * Michelle stands up, placing the ring on the table before walking over to Zoya and placing one hand on Zoya's abdomen and the other on her forehead. * Zoya gasps as the 'kick is burned out of her system. "Thanks." <Lisl> ::still holding Zoya upright:: Michelle, you look... relatively... sober. ::eyeing her shiner:: Can you tell me what you girls have been up to here? ::muttering:: Can't leave you all alone for a SECOND.... <Michelle> ::The soft white glow appears from Michelle's hands again, but rather than lasting for a few moments as it did for Tyl's wrist is continues for nearly a minute.:: * Michelle collapses to the floor, her face going very pale, "Zoya, don't make me do that again." * Tyl walks over and helps Michelle off the floor. "I am so sorry about your face... hell of a shiner you got there, Michelle.:: <Zoya> Sorry. You didn't have to burn it *all* out like that. I could've taken over once I could talk again. <Lisl> ::grimly:: Don't worry, she won't. ::still holding Zoya's arm:: Now does someone care to explain, or do I send you all to your rooms? <Zoya> ::to Lisl:: It was just too much. Charoli's controlling Glossaria, *and* Vallel, *and* Jelarthna, and until three minutes ago, Tyl. <Zoya> I just couldn't take it any more. <Zoya> On the bright side, I think I've figured out a way to *find* her. <Lisl> ::frowning deeply:: Charoli? She's the cause of all this? ::glancing at Michelle:: And the eye? <Tyl> ::looking deeply ashamed:: I hit her, Lisl. I didn't mean to. * Tyl looks down at her dress and makes another face. "Do you think he'll forgive me?" <Zoya> As near as we can guess, yes. * Michelle lets Tyl pull her up and then collapses into a chair and chuckles, "My mother would had it worse. Everyone called her 'Black-eyed Suzie' for a few weeks." * Michelle shakes her head, "Tyl'gainia got a little violent when she was breaking Charoli's compulsion, and I made the mistake of being within striking distance." <Zoya> ::looks at Tyl:: You... You *are* back, aren't you? <Lisl> ::lifting one eyebrow:: You have awfully good accidental aim, Tyl. * Michelle looks at Tyl, "Jelarthna. Once we've freed him from his compulsion of course he'll forgive you. And if you're concerned about his not having proposed to you, you can always propose to him." <Tyl> ::nods:: I... I think so. I don't... feel any desire to go running off with Loraan again... ::blanches:: Jel's going to be furious with me. <Lisl> ::glancing around the walls:: Can *she* monitor in here? <Zoya> ::sighs:: *First* let's find Charoli and take care of all these compulsions she's laying around, and *then* let's see about reconciling everyone. I think, once everyone understands what was going on, no blame will be laid. * Michelle takes Tyl's hand, "He'll understand. After all, he's going to expect you to be furious at him for chasing after Temire." <Tyl> ::very very quietly:: yes... but I... <Lisl> Jel? You're worried he doesn't love you because he didn't propose? ::looking at Tyl:: He told Loraan at the party that elves do these things slower than humans do. ::grinning a little and twitching a softly pointed ear with her finger:: Good ears. <Zoya> ::to Lisl:: I doubt it, not without looking through someone else's eyes. This is holy ground for a god of chaos, after all. * Tyl rubs her hands disgustedly down her dress. "Oh, I want a bath... oh my god." She shudders. <Lisl> True, but I don't expect mind-benders to stick to the usual rules. No offense, Tyl. <Tyl> I'm not offended. Furious, confused, concerned and feeling a bit homicidal, but not offended... ::offers a weak grin to Lisl:: <Zoya> Before you have your bath, Tyl... I need you to help me with some research. I could probably have done it on my own, but it'll go faster with help. <Zoya> Not right this minute, of course - but the sooner the better. <Lisl> Yes... you said something about a way to track her? How 'bout a way to keep her from causing this again? ::gesturing at the three of them:: <Michelle> I'm not an expert, but I suspect cutting her head off will solve the problem. <Zoya> ::to Lisl:: I've got anti-psionic shields, but they're probably no stronger than Tyl's own shields. That's why we need to move quickly. <Tyl> ::grins wickedly at Michelle:: Actually, I was thinking of biting her throat open. <Zoya> ::to Michelle:: Did Meghan tell you how long her trip was going to take? <Tyl> ::shudders again:: Zoya, will you *please* magic me up some new clothes? I really don't think I can sit here much longer... * Michelle sighs, "Three weeks there, then we have to find something, then three weeks back. I can't even tell you if that's three weeks by horse or foot." <Michelle> I'm afraid I'm not going to be much help from this point on. <Zoya> ::looks at Tyl, then nods. She speaks a few phrases and a neatly-folded robe appears on the table.:: <Lisl> ::glancing at Michelle with a touch of surprise:: And I thought *I* was the bloodthirsty one. <Zoya> ::to Michelle:: That's probably for the best, actually - if only in that it will keep Meghan from inadvertently interfering with Glossaria and Vallel. I know she means well, but... ::she sighs:: <Tyl> Thank you. ::with complete and total lack of modesty, she strips out of the brown brocade dress, revealing several livid bite marks on her back, stomach and legs. She pulls the robe on with something like relief:: <Zoya> A couple of months should be enough time for them to get over their initial guilt and accept that they had no blame, and begin to reconcile... At least, I *hope* it won't take longer than that. * Michelle nods, "I know Zoya. She knows as well, even if it does hurt her." <Zoya> ::nods and sighs:: Maybe it'll be better for *her*, too. <Tyl> ::turns to Lisl:: You don't know what I *did*... I'm going to rip her heart out and make her eat it. <Zoya> ::giggles slightly hysterically:: I can't believe she's taking *Kevil*, though. * Michelle sighs, "I take it back, Tyl gets firsts." <Tyl> How *dare* she? How dare she? Ruining everyone's lives? Making a mockery of my school? ::clenches her fist:: <Lisl> ::glancing without shame at the naked Tyl, studying the bitemarks critically:: Well, I know those were human. Based on the locations, I'd say they were...em...consensual, and whoever made them obviously wasn't trying to kill you... Loraan? * Tyl nods, looking almost sick with shame. <Zoya> Not your fault, Tyl. Compulsion. You're a psionic, yourself. * Michelle shrugs, "Apparently Sissra specifically mentioned Kevil as needing to go." * Zoya shakes her head. "I'm not saying he's a *bad* choice. It's just... amusing." <Tyl> Is... gods, who else has she gotten to? ::looks around frantically:: <Lisl> ::nodding:: And now that you know how... umm... how he likes it...::face reddening:: ...you could always use that as grounds for a breakup. I heard him, Tyl. He's obsessed, but he doesn't sound like a bad man. ::a thought occurring to her:: Could he have been controlled, too? * Michelle sighs, "I'm afraid with everything else going on I just haven't paid him much attention. I pegged him as another Jaret and forgot about him." <Zoya> ::bleakly:: Glossaria. She's become obsessed with her "study" of sexual relationships. She propositioned Xarroch, for Erdian's sake. <Lisl> ::looking up sharply:: Sissra? *Mentioned*? Meghan SAW her? <Tyl> ::looks ill:: She... he? Oh... did they? Do I want to know? Michelle, will you *please* get me a drink before I throw up? <Michelle> She propositioned me. ::gestures towards Lisl:: Sounds like she propositioned Lisl as well. Hell, she asked me to pimp Felice and Deanna. <Lisl> ::raising her eyebrows:: Xarroch, too, hm? She as good as propositioned me at the door, when I asked for you. <Zoya> ::smiles at Michelle:: Another Jaret? ::chuckle:: Kevil's nowhere near as good with a blade. And I know he's overly fond of that silver tongue of his. But he's not... entirely useless. ::she smiles:: <Michelle> Yes, Meghan saw Sissra's spirit. That's how she found out that she needs to go on this quest. <Lisl> ::snorting:: If you say so, Zoya. There must be some use to him, to earn your goodwill. ::grinning:: <Zoya> ::smiles at Tyl:: She did, and he didn't. It seems she's also propositioned Kevil, and Michelle, and Nacheyla, I think. * Michelle rises from her seat walks a tad unsteadily to the bar, pouring a few fingers of rum into a mug and setting it on the floor so it can make its way over to Tyl while she sits on the stool behind the bar. <Tyl> Thank you. ::knocks the rum back:: Nacheyla? Nacheyla's a bit old for her, isn't she? * Michelle shakes her head, "Not anymore." <Lisl> ::shaking her head:: That girl seriously needs to get laid. What happened between her and Vallel? It sounded on Monday like they'd had an argument, and I expected... well, her asking Xarroch doesn't really surprise me that much. But I thought they'd be together again by the end of the week! <Zoya> ::laughs at Lisl's comment, and considers:: And - all his flattery notwithstanding - he's the most emotionally stable man I've ever known. If Meghan's stumbling under the weight of newfound empathy ::glances at Michelle to make sure she understands correctly:: he could well be a good choice. He's unlikely to be swayed by anything coming out of her. <Zoya> ::grins at Lisl:: It's been a busy week. <Lisl> ::dryly:: Whether the other way 'round is true is another story... ::shakes her head:: The man *does* have a tongue on him, I'll give him that. * Michelle sighs, "Glossaria's under a compulsion. All her feelings are being locked away. The only emotion she can experience any more is sexual desire. So she's trying to fill her emotional void with the only emotion she does feel." <Tyl> ::raises her hand and slaps herself sharply:: All right. Enough is enough. You were saying something about locating her? ::to Zoya:: <Zoya> ::nods, obviously relieved to be on the familiar grounds of research:: You mentioned you could detect psionics currently in use, within a limited range. I'd like to tie that to a magical scrying spell, so we can detect psionics in use in and around the entire city. The bulk of psionic energy will probably be coming from the school, and I think it would be almost trivial to check out any other locations. <Tyl> ::nods:: The school, Bluestar's house... not much else that should be going on... oh, and the hospice... * Zoya nods. "And maybe a few wild talents. But it narrows our search down considerably." <Tyl> ::looks at Zoya, worried:: Marten's been living at the Hall recently. Is... do you think? <Michelle> My house may be showing up now. I don't know how my wards fall into this scheme. <Lisl> ::wry smile:: And maybe Tyl can pick up a few new students on the way... <Tyl> I need to make a new admission rule. No psychos allowed. * Zoya sighs sharply. "I don't know what's wrong with Marten, but I don't think he's being controlled." * Michelle giggles, "But one look at your friends and everyone will say that you're making exceptions." <Tyl> All right... let's try this... what are we... how does that thing work? ::points at Zoya's crystal:: <Lisl> ::frowning suddenly, her gaze sharpening:: Is there any way of telling... who she might have affected, whose minds she might have been picking through? * Zoya launches into some technical terms describing how her viewscreen on Gloss is set up for Tyl. <Tyl> Tell you what... I have an idea. Come by the school this evening. We'll use all the students to block her out. One can't stand against many. <Zoya> All right. ::she eyes Tyl:: Can you use that to break compulsions already set? <Tyl> It depends how tightly imbedded they are, but we can try... sometimes, just knowing someone is screwing with your mind is enough. Of course, the first thing you do when setting up something like that is the suggestion that everything is the victim's own idea. <Zoya> ::nods:: You might give it a try with Val. He's got his own defenses, so maybe he just needs a little help. And it sounds like he's been doing himself more damage than Gloss. ::looks somewhat concerned:: <Tyl> Gods yes! ::looks horrified:: It didn't even occur to me to worry about him. The poor boy. he looked awful when he dragged himself home today. <Michelle> He's also doing a better job of hiding it. When I examined him I couldn't find any traces of it, and he was the one I was most suspicious of. <Zoya> ::nods:: Give it a shot. If it works, that will be one more of us free from her hooks. If not, then it will give us an idea just how strong she is. Either way, we'll have gained. I'll come by... ::she considers an inner calendar:: Just after moonrise. <Tyl> ::nods:: all right. ::looks at the others:: Okay, round up everyone who's been affected and we'll meet at the school. <Zoya> ::checks in her crystal ball:: Oh, hells, she's off again. ::stands and heads for the door:: I'll see you later! <Lisl> ::looking a Zoya:: Is there anyway anyone can give me a lead on her? I would almost swear she wasn't in the city... I've crisscrossed from the docks to the Hill. But yesterday I came across a trace... just a whiff, took me a long time to place it, but I think it was her. * Michelle looks at Tyl, "I think Temire's probably safe enough with Aldis, and I have no idea where Jelarthna is. Do you think we need to break the compulsions and then go after Charoli, or would it weaken Charoli if she's maintaining the compulsions when we face her." <Tyl> ::frowns:: Actually, you may be right. Maintaining any psionics is costly... it would certainly lessen any energy she had for a defensive manuever. <Michelle> You should probably break Vallel and Glossaria's compulsions. They seem to be getting themselves into trouble. But Temire and Jelarthna should be alright until you can straighten everything out. <Lisl> ::frowning:: These compulsions... can she change them? Seems to me that sounds like putting a ready-made army at her fingertips...ones we won't want to attack. <Tyl> ::looks at Lisl:: This is hard to explain. I can't actually do it, myself... but, as I understand the theory, it's easier to compel someone to do something that's pleasant. And... if there's already something to work with, that makes it even easier. You can't encourage suicide, unless the person was already having those tendencies. <Lisl> Soo... ::tapping her fingers pensively on a table as she tips her chair back:: Gloss and Xarroch, then...? <Tyl> You have to be... careful. You could make someone violent, maybe, but that person would be fighting it, if it wasn't someone they wanted to hurt. * Michelle sighs, "From what I've heard and seen you can do that sort of thing, but it's ALOT harder. I think it more likely that you'll be faced with friends being tortured every time you threaten her." <Tyl> ::shakes her head:: I don't think she could get to Xarroch... hell, Lisl, I have a hard time making contact with you, just to talk, and that's something you *let* me do. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: I've been told in the past that I tend to be difficult to read, which is a relief, if anything. But I meant more that... ::frowning as she thinks how best to put it:: I don't think she affected Xarroch. But this wasn't something Gloss would have been totally against, then? ::amused smile:: That may be something for Zoya to keep in mind... later. <Tyl> ::waves a hand:: You know how she is... we've all heard her asking Eljorin if he'd be interested in ravishing her. <Michelle> I think once she out from under the compulsion Glossaria's love for Vallel will curb such impulses. <Lisl> ::grinning a little wider:: Oh, I don't know. Xarroch's not such a bad lot, when he remembers to clean the blood off... * Tyl shudders, rubbing her hands up and down her arms frantically. * Michelle shakes her head, "Is there anything else I can do to help this evening. I really need to get ready for this trip, and warn Aldis, and try and get some sleep." <Lisl> ::smile disappearing as the chair lands back on the floor with a solid THUNK:: Sorry, Tyl. <Lisl> Warn Aldis? What's my mother to do with this? You don't think Charoli...? * Michelle sighs, "It's possible Charoli put a compulsion on Temire. I'm sure your mother's capable of controlling Temire even with a compulsion, but she should at least know what it is she's dealing with." <Lisl> ::face lightening:: Ah. ::grinning a little:: I wouldn't worry too much on that front. Mother knows how to handle hormones. ::spoken with the air of experience:: * Michelle shakes her head, "I'm sure you were the terror of the local packs as a teenager." <Lisl> ::shortly:: I'd rather not talk about it. * Michelle gets off her stool and heads for the door, moving a little slower than usual, "Goodnight you two. Be sure to lock up on your way out." <Tyl> Thanks... ::waves:: <Lisl> ::nods and waves to Michelle:: <Lisl> So... do you want to talk about it? * Tyl rubs at her arms again, her eyes looking deeply wounded. <Lisl> ::softly:: I'll understand if you don't. But I also understand that it helps. <Tyl> I'm... ::stares at the table:: I'm not angry with Loraan. He didn't know. But... <Lisl> And I know this won't right now, but: It's not your fault, Tyl. You were raped. Not by Loraan, by Charoli. ::Lisl's voice hardens perceptibly when she says her name:: <Tyl> ::nods slowly, tracing circles on the table with her finger:: I just... it would be one thing if I hadn't *liked* it. I *wanted* to... I remember everything... <Lisl> You also thought you loved him, didn't you? And do you? <Tyl> ::nods, wiping her eyes:: I thought so. I was happy, damnit. ::slams her fist down on the table:: I felt safe, secure... like I belonged to something for the first time in my life. And now, I just feel... dirty. Like I've betrayed everything that I am. <Lisl> Except that you weren't the one doing the betraying. You wayward little student did. She *used* you. Pretty well, too. <Lisl> ::dryly:: And from the look of you, I'd say her tastes leave something to be desired, as well... <Tyl> ::looks at Lisl:: How could... how could someone do that? <Lisl> What, use you? Or like it rough like that? ::gesturing to the lower portions of Tyl's body:: <Tyl> No, I mean... screwing with people's minds like that. Isn't it bad enough that she had to stab me? <Lisl> ::her voice cold:: I get the impression that other people don't matter to her terribly, Tyl, except as things to use, to get her way. I've...fought people like that. I've spent my whole *life* fighting people like that. ::pressing her lips together:: If she were a mage, I'd say she was a prime candidate for lichhood when she got older. <Lisl> With mi-- ah, psionics... I don't know if it works that way. <Tyl> ::her voice emotionless:: There are things you can do with psionics that are similar to lichdoom. Like what my brother was doing. <Lisl> ::nodding:: People like that... well, "selfish" just isn't strong enough for it. They're the center of the world, as far as they're concerned, and anyone who disagrees with them is evil. <Tyl> ::nods slowly:: <Lisl> Sometimes... well, sometimes they can be forcibly shown some perspective. Sometimes there *is* something else they care about, and they just need to be reminded to break out of that... self-centeredness. But most of them... ::shakes her head:: They just... they're not part of the human race anymore. On my worst day, I'd be a Sister of Charity compared to them... <Tyl> What do you think she wants? ::presses a shaking hand to her head:: <Lisl> Wants? ::her lip curls:: She wants her way. Whatever she decides that is at the moment. I would guess, from the way she was behaving at the Lord Mayor's party, she wants Vallel. ::smirking:: It must burn her up that he prefers Gloss over her, considering their looks. <Lisl> Past that... ::frowning in thought:: How did she do at the School? Was she a good student? Well-liked? How'd the teachers and other students treat her? <Tyl> ::shakes her head:: She was a problem-student... very clever. The boys all tended to be sotted with her, of course. She is remarkably pretty, you know. <Tyl> But she was constantly abusing her abilities. She... we caught her, a few months ago, giving nightmares to a merchant who slighted her. <Lisl> ::nodding:: And she knows how to use that, I doubt not. ::nodding again:: Of course. After all, they're her abilities, why shouldn't she use them? ::said with heavy sarcasm:: <Tyl> We had some words about it. She was pretty angry. She accused me of coddling people who would much rather burn us all at the stake. <Lisl> ::pulling a face:: Well, that's probably reason enough right there. Did she ever say anything about "How SHE'D run the School"? <Tyl> Not that I heard, but she was spending some time with some of the younger girls... tutoring, she said. ::blanches:: I hate to think what she's done to them. <Lisl> ::darkly:: Tutoring? ::letting her eyes run up and down Tyl again for a moment:: What *kind* of "tutoring"? <Tyl> ::in a weak voice:: I don't know. <Tyl> I thought it was good that she was showing an interest in someone other than herself. <Lisl> Normally I'd agree with you. But... Gloss is apparently sex-crazed, you were apparently... well, that's neither here nor there, but... what has Vallel been doing? <Tyl> He's been drinking. A lot. He was soaked in it when he came home today. And he looks like someone hit him in the head with a mace. <Lisl> Any...umm... ::coughing:: Bite-marks? <Lisl> That you noticed? <Tyl> He's been skipping classes. And he doesn't always stay at the school overnight. ::gives Lisl a long look:: I didn't undress him. <Lisl> ::face turning red:: Well, no, I didn't mean... I mean... ::looking seriously flustered:: Don't they sometimes... you know...::waving a hand to indicate her neck:: <Tyl> I didn't look. I was... ::flushes:: thinking about other things. <Lisl> ::clearing her throat, studying the table grain in deep fascination:: Well, yes. My POINT was, do you think that this Charoli might be the kind to get a kick out of, well, corrupting? <Tyl> She might. Damn her! We're going to have to examine the girls. <Lisl> ::nodding shortly:: Without the element of surprise, Charoli's going to find it much harder to come at us, I think. ::pausing, and frowning in concern:: Tyl, is there any way... well, would I, um, know, if she'd been rummaging around in my head, do you think? <Tyl> ::looks at her:: I can look, but you'll have to open up more than you have before. You usually keep me restricted pretty closely to just the center of your awareness. <Lisl> I... ::gnaws on her lower lip for a long moment:: Alright, I'll try. Some of it is... instinctual, and much of the rest... well, let's just say these habits have been there a VERY long time. But... ::nodding sharply, decisively:: I trust you, Tyl. ::squeezing her eyes closed and gripping the edge of the table firmly:: <Lisl> ::cracking one eye open, sounding unusually... plaintive:: Just... please don't hate me, for anything you might... see. <Tyl> ::laughs, patting Lisl's hand in a reassuring way:: Well, first you have to relax. I can't even 'speak you when you look like you're trying to give birth to a watermelon. <Lisl> Relax. Okay. I can do that. I think. ::looking supremely tense, but trying to deepen her breathing... rolling out her shoulders:: <Tyl> Lisl, I couldn't hate you. ::takes her hand and closes her eyes, her brow tensing as she pushes past Lisl's mental blocks:: * Lisl closes her eyes again, more lightly, her breathing evening as she slips into meditation. <Lisl> ::murmuring:: Heh. Don't say that 'til you really know me. * Tyl probes around gently in Lisl's mind, looking for strong emotions and irrational thoughts. * Tyl frowns, concentrates, and takes a deep breath. <Tyl> ::opens her eyes:: I don't see anything... ::looks puzzled:: Who's Iworo? <Lisl> That didn't even hurt. ::sounding faintly surprised:: But I could sort of... feel you? think you? sometimes, which I guess is a good sign. ::blinking for a moment:: Iworo? He was... a friend of Sealgair's, from his homeworld. A warrior. ::grinning a little:: One of the few people before Xarroch I could drink 'kick with. ::shaking her head:: I haven't thought of him in ages. <Tyl> Of course it didn't hurt... ::looks mildly surprised:: I'm not... ::smiles:: You seem to have a bit of special regard for him, so I was curious. And Pierre? <Lisl> Iworo was a very good friend. He... understood me. And Jean-Pierre...::blushing:: Well, he *really* understood me. We almost got married, at one point. He was also... like me. Natural were. <Tyl> ::nods:: I couldn't find anything strange... ::stops...:: well... um... violent... um... ::laughs helplessly:: externally imposed... <Lisl> ::raising an eyebrow:: You mean that you don't think Charoli's been messing with my head, yes? <Tyl> Right. ::laughs:: Sorry... but you have a really odd mind... <Lisl> Umm... thanks? ::shaking her head:: I don't know whether to be relieved or insulted. Maybe she doesn't consider me a threat. ::eyes glinting:: <Tyl> Maybe she can't get in ::suggests:: I know I have a lot of trouble. But then, she's much better at this sort of thing than I am. <Tyl> Be relieved. ::looks down at herself, wiping her hands along the robe that Zoya magicked up for her:: <Lisl> ::nodding:: Actually... about that. How will we... contain her, if we find her? Are you... ::pausing, licking her lips quickly:: Would you be comfortable with the thought of killing her out of hand? I'm sure you can understand that I have no problem with it. She's done enough harm. <Tyl> ::blinks:: You can hold her down while I rip her heart out, if you want. <Tyl> I mean, normally... ::frowns:: How could we keep her in prison when she can influence people's minds? <Lisl> ::cocking her head to one side, slowly:: Alright, so you have no problem with it either. * Tyl looks down at herself, opening the robe to reveal her bruised breasts. "Look what she did to me? Yes, I'm going to kill her." <Lisl> ::nodding:: That was the problem that occurred to me. Unless there's a way to... stop her from influencing people's minds? ::pausing a long moment, as if to consider the wisdom of saying it:: With mages, there's a way to... strip someone of her magic. Mother has assisted... it takes a full circle to do it. I don't know... is there such a thing, for psionics? <Tyl> ::closes her robe again:: I don't know. Maybe. Like what I did for Jelarthna ::she pauses, blinks, swallows:: when he was ill. But I'd have to break her. She'd probably go insane. Not that she's not already... <Lisl> ::pursing her lips together, and nodding shortly:: Kill her, then. When I see Zoya, I'll let her know the gloves are off. <Lisl> Just...::hesitating a moment:: For your own peace of mind, Tyl, make it quick. You don't want to give her opportunity to wiggle out again, and... it will be much easier to live with yourself... after. Believe me. <Tyl> ::looks at Lisl calmly:: I have killed people before. I've not made a practice of it, obviously, but I... know how... * Tyl suddenly loses all pretense of control and her mouth trembles wildly, tears spilling down her cheeks. <Lisl> I know. But it *is* different, when... ::thinks:: When you've been played with... oh, Tyl... ::getting up quickly and gathering her very gently into her arms, rocking her:: <Tyl> I... I... you don't think he has? I don't... I can't... he's not going to be angry? Gods! I *liked* it. ::buries her face in Lisl's neck:: <Lisl> Shhh... ::stroking her hair:: It will be alright. Jel won't hate you, he won't judge you. He loves you, Tyl, this won't change that.... * Lisl wraps her arms around Tyl more tightly, feeling her tremble and thinking protective, comforting thoughts... and trying very hard not to think murderously of Charoli. * Tyl gradually gets herself back together again, sniffling. <Tyl> I'm sorry... I know you hate these emotional scenes... <Lisl> ::Sternly, helping Tyl wipe her eyes:: I hate it when *I* get emotional. And I hate it when people are helpless and weepy. You're not helpless, and you've been through a great deal lately. I'd consider myself less of a person if I couldn't help a friend under those conditions. * Tyl shudders again, scrubbing at her arms. "I'm going to go up and take a bath... do you... think you might be persuaded to keep me company? I don't really like myself very much right now." <Lisl> ::gravely:: I'll be the best soapdish you've ever seen. I might even be persuaded to help you scrub your back, as long as you don't insist on rubbing yourself bloody. <Tyl> ::smiles weakly:: I can smell him on me... ::shudders again:: <Lisl> ::very seriously, after studying Tyl closely for a long moment:: I can't. <Tyl> ::looks a little relieved:: Well, that's something, isn't it? <Lisl> ::cocking an eyebrow:: If you'd like, I happen to know that Moo- that Marten keeps a stock of scented bubble bath in his rooms. Want to try some? <Tyl> Yes. Something completely... yes... ::heads up the stairs:: <Lisl> ::grins and hops the bar, palming a key from a high shelf before following Tyl upstairs:: |
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