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::the party is standing outside the grey iron and granite town of Broken Reach. Dark clouds skate by overhead in a bleak sky with no stars. Few creatures walk through the battered streets, most human, and some only barely:: * Zoya looks around and begins to draw a deep breath, then thinks the better of that idea as a whiff of sulphur reaches her. She sighs. "Well. Let's find this inn." * Tyl shakes her head. "I really need to have my head examined." <Zoya> Not *here*, you don't. ::grins:: * Lisl coughs a little, drawing her hand down over the corners of her mouth and grimacing. "Ready when you are. Gods, I could *use* a drink..." * Jaret discards the peaceknotting on his swords and looks around. "I suppose asking for directions isn't the most common activity around here. I imagine they get few tourists." <Zoya> It's not a big town. Let's see if it makes itself obvious. <Deanna> It would explain why they've put so little effort into landscaping. At least, I hope this isn't the look they were going for. <Tyl> What, you don't think this is a great resort spot, De? I'm surprised at you... * Zoya walks slowly down the main road, looking hopefully for a sign that might announce the inn. <Deanna> I'm just saying the landscaping isn't much. It's entirely possible the people or attractions will make up for it. But you'll forgive me if I don't hold my breath. * Jaret keeps close to Zoya, watching the alleys and shadows. <Gestalt> ::Yohko walks a step behind Michelle, her face impassive:: * Lisl follows the group, glancing behind frequently. * Tyl takes a change of pace from looking back and in alleys to look *up*. ::after a few minutes of walking the streets of Broken Reach, the group turns a corner and sees a sign for what is most certainly Red Shroud's inn. The signboard shows a corpse on a slab, covered with a red, translucent veil. There is a red pool gathering around the slab as well:: <Zoya> ::makes a face:: You might want to re-think that drink, Lisl... ::glances around at the rest of the group:: Everyone ready? <Gestalt> ::Michelle looks a little pale, but nods, Deanna and Yohko following suit.:: <Jaret> Born ready, lady mage. <Tyl> ::snorts:: If she can drink 'kick, she can drink anything... <Zoya> Ah, but will she *want* to? * Lisl grins a little, showing pointed canines. <Zoya> Right. ::eyes the sign suspiciously, fingers a ring on her left hand, and walks into the inn:: <Tyl> ::walks in behind Zoya:: Head... examined.... <Gestalt> ::Deanna instinctively scans the crowd for anyone she knows:: ::the scene inside is jarringly incongruous with that outside. It is brightly lit, and a merry fire snaps away in the hearth. The wooden floor is polished oak, and wooden tables and chairs are spaced around it. Trophy weapons and items are mounted on the walls. The crowd inside is human, mostly, although most have an odd air about them, either in the angle of the eyes, or how they stand:: * Tyl looks even more wary at the supposed normality of the place. * Zoya echoes Tyl's uncertainty, but negotiates the crowd carefully to find a place at the bar. <Gestalt> ::Michelle and Yohko follow Zoya, while Deanna moves towards the bar at a more leisurely pace, continuing the examine the bar's patrons.:: * Jaret looks around as well, walking around the edges of the room before heading to meet up with Tyl and Zoya at the bar. * Lisl follows the rest in, glancing out once more before closing the door behind the group. The perceptive would note that the fine, nearly invisible hair on her arms is standing on end. ::the man behind the bar is dark-haired and leanly muscled, wearing a plain white shirt with the sleeves rolled up his forearms and close-fitting black pants. He grins at Tyl, Zoya, Michelle, and Yohko as they arrive at the bar, and his dark eyes sparkle.:: Well... new faces. It's been a while. Good afternoon. <Zoya> ::nods once, warily:: Good afternoon. We were hoping we might speak with Red Shroud. Are you he? <Gestalt> ::Michelle nods to herself in acknowledgement of something the barkeep said.:: <Red Shroud> Well, yes, I am. And now that you have the knowledge of me, might I ask the same? What would you like? <Zoya> I am Zoya. And before we drink, we must ask what currency you accept. ::she grins:: I fear we have not yet had time to visit the moneychanger. <Lisl> ::moves up behind the group, keeping a wary eye on the other patrons:: * Tyl leans against the bar. <Red Shroud> You'll be heartened to learn that what is precious most elsewhere is precious here. Metals, gemstones, friendships, true love, we accept them all. ::he smiles winningly at Tyl:: Please, help yourself to a stool. The bar should be able to hold itself up. <Zoya> In that case, I will have an ale. ::she places a silver coin on the bar:: * Tyl pulls up a stool and perches on the very edge. She fingers the coins in her pouch a moment, then drops a silver on the bar. "Rum with ice, if it's not too much trouble. And I'm called Tyl." <Gestalt> ::Yohko and Michelle seat themselves at a table near the bar, while Deanna takes a stool at the bar with the others.:: * Red Shroud pours Zoya an reddish-brown ale into a well-worn pewter mug. "Consider yourself served, Zoya." He pulls a black glass bottle from under the bar and sets it and a glass in front of Tyl. "Rum is manageable. Ice, however is not. As you may have heard, we get that kind of weather infrequently." * Tyl nods. "Ah well..." * Zoya mouths the words to a silent prayer, then lifts her mug to Tyl in salute before taking a drink. * Tyl touches the side of the glass and blinks. A rim of frost coats the side of the glass. She shrugs at Zoya. "Only live once..." She knocks back the rum. * Jaret hesitantly puts a silver of his own on the bar. "Wine. Red wine, please." * Red Shroud grins at Jaret. "No need to be so hesitant. You don't seem like the type to let women take the lead." He pours Jaret some wine and sets it in front of him. * Lisl raises an eyebrow at Red Shroud's comment but says nothing, contenting herself with leaning against a stool on Zoya's other side. * Zoya raises an eyebrow at Lisl as she sets her mug down. "Well? You wanted a drink." * Jaret takes the wine with a bit of a scowl, but no retort. * Red Shroud nods to the other new arrivals. "Ladies... an embarrassment of riches, it seems. What do you want?" <Lisl> ::shakes her head at Zoya with a half-grin:: One of us should stay sober. <Michelle> Nothing thank you. <Deanna> ::smile:: We're just here for the company. <Zoya> ::snorts at Lisl, then shrugs. She sips from her mug again, then eyes Red Shroud:: We have need of information as well as refreshment... <Red Shroud> You seem to have brought your own company, but if you'd enjoy something less familiar, simply say the word and I'll introduce you to the most delightful individuals that come through the door. And information? What sort might that be? <Zoya> We are in search of a key. Certain sources believe you might know where we could find it. <Red Shroud> Rooms to let, is it? Well, I have a few. Some of you might have to share, but there's little I can do about that, I'm afraid. <Zoya> ::half-smiles:: No, no. We're looking for a key to fit a door on the Plane of Infinite Doors. * Red Shroud refills Tyl's rum. "Well, that's a different sort of key altogether. And, as you might gather from the name, there's quite a few doors, and quite a few keys. You'll need to be a little more specific." <Zoya> There is a creature who goes by the name of Grillek. She has created a lair for herself among the Planes. It is her lair we seek. * Red Shroud smiles. "Well. That is something." * Lisl leans an elbow on the bar, glancing around again casually, on the lookout for overly-interested eavesdroppers. * Zoya sips her ale again, watching Red Shroud and waiting. <Red Shroud> ::the group at the bar is being casually watched as those new to a local's hangout often are, but no one has yet to approach them or devote the whole of their attention to them:: * Jaret has some of his wine and sets it back down on the bar. * Tyl fiddles with her rum, obviously considering its amber depths, then takes half the shot. <Red Shroud> Grillek set the key to her plane when she created it. I can't tell you what it is, but I do know who has it. Now, information, as drinks, are regrettably not free of charge. How were you intending to pay for this? It's worth more than a piece of silver. Or even thirty pieces. * Lisl absently strokes a hand down her arm, attempting to smooth down the hair. <Zoya> Yes, I suppose it is. Why don't you tell us what you think it's worth, and we can negotiate from there? ::she smiles and sips her ale:: * Red Shroud grins widely. "I was hoping you'd say that." <Zoya> ::her hand twitches slightly, pressing her ring against the fingers next to it, but she does not move otherwise:: * Lisl raises an eyebrow and glances at Zoya before returning to her casual survey of the other patrons. <Red Shroud> The keeper also of the key has something of mine. If you bring it back to me, I will consider the debt paid in full. Should you fail, we will negotiate again, and the price will be a much more personal one. <Gestalt> ::Michelle shudders at Red Shroud's statement:: <Zoya> ::glances at her companions one by one:: Where - and what - is this keeper, and what are they holding? <Lisl> ::mutters:: Something tells me this other guy won't be interested in barter... <Tyl> ::curiously:: Why would Grillek leave the key to her own plane where someone else could get hold of it? Something tells *me* this is a lot harder than it sounds. <Yohko> Something tells me, this is a trap. <Zoya> ::grins tightly at Tyl:: Did you have anything better to do? <Red Shroud> His name is Menekrates. He has a demesne a short ways outside Broken Reach, towards the mountains. He has the key. He took from me a gilded birdcage. Bring back the birdcage, with its starling still in it, and you will have paid me a debt. <Red Shroud> The key cannot be brought into its plane. Grillek has... entrusted it to Menekrates's stewardship. <Lisl> ::snorts, turning to give Yohko a glance:: What part of this *hasn't* been a trap? <Gestalt> ::Yohko shrugs indifferently:: <Zoya> ::smiles:: You neglected to answer one of my questions, sir. What is Menekrates? I find one has a much higher chance of success when one knows as much as possible about the situation one faces. * Red Shroud looks at Lisl and sighs. "I apologize if my hospitality has not been pleasing." <Lisl> ::shakes her head at Red Shroud and grins:: Don't mind me. Travel usually puts me in a mood... ask any of them. ::waves a hand at her companions:: <Tyl> ::snorts into her remaining rum:: *Living* puts her into a mood... <Deanna> Not that kind of mood. <Red Shroud> ::grinning:: Menekrates is the keeper of the key to Grillek's realm. More than that, I have been asked not to say. You are not the only one with interests, you understand. <Zoya> ::smiles wryly:: Of course. What would it cost us to prevent others from learning of our interest? * Lisl glances around at the bar again and murmurs, "A round of drinks on us probably wouldn't hurt..." <Red Shroud> Why don't you tell me what it's worth to you, and we'll negotiate from there? <Zoya> ::laughs:: <Red Shroud> I apologize for the jest. I couldn't resist. * Tyl grins and shakes her head, obviously liking Red Shroud despite her reservations. <Red Shroud> As a show of good faith, and since I would like my birdcage back, I'll give you 48 hours before I breathe a word of this to another soul. Or even the soulless. Is that acceptable? <Lisl> He's just outside of town, you said? <Zoya> Fair enough. If it takes us that long to recover your birdcage and Grillek's key, then we are probably lost, in any case. <Red Shroud> Ten miles or so. There's a small river to cross, but that's it for obstacles. There's a grove of spine trees outside Menekrates's abode. You should spot it fairly easily. <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: Spine trees? <Red Shroud> Black trees, with spines on the branches. Some of the charming native flora. <Tyl> Yick... <Zoya> ::snorts:: Semi-sentient, designed to attack intruders, no doubt. <Red Shroud> Not as far as I know. I think it's Menekrates's idea of a garden. <Zoya> ::snorts:: What? Something going right? Preposterous. ::she grins and tosses back the rest of her ale:: <Red Shroud> Well. Is there anything else you'd like before you leave? Or are you not going this evening? <Tyl> Don't get used to it... ::she finishes off her rum and pushes the glass aside:: <Zoya> Oh, we're going. Wouldn't want to waste any of those 48 hours... ::she pushes the mug towards him a bit:: Our thanks for the hospitality. <Lisl> ::stands:: How fond are you of this Menekrates? <Red Shroud> Not particularly. He does have my birdcage, and my starling. Why do you ask? <Tyl> ::shrugs and mutters something under her breath:: * Red Shroud reaches behind him and flips an hourglass over. Sand slowly trickles from the top bulb to the bottom. <Tyl> ::laughs again:: I love pressure... I eat it for breakfast... <Lisl> ::cracking her knuckles:: Just wanted to make sure you wouldn't get upset at us for anything. <Zoya> ::eyes the glass:: ...Got it. Come on, everyone. Let's get going. * Gestalt stands and heads out the door. <Lisl> Right behind you, Zoya. ::nods politely to Red Shroud:: * Jaret puts his mostly full wine glass back on the bar and heads for the door. * Tyl looks back at Red Shroud for a long moment before following her friends. * Red Shroud smiles and nods at the departing troupe. "Good night!" * Zoya walks out of the inn without looking at the other patrons, and goes to the middle of the street, looking around for the mountains outside of town. * Red Shroud winks at Tyl as she looks back. <Zoya> ::eyeing the mountains in the distance:: A few pairs of seven-league boots might come in handy... <Lisl> ::pauses before heading out the door, flashing a grin around the bar and tossing a small handful of platinum on the counter:: Drinks on me. See you soon. * Tyl shakes her head as she exits the bar. "Friendly sort... I wonder what he's up to." * Tyl turns to Zoya. "You got a spyglass in those bottomless sleeves of yours?" * Lisl half-grins tightly and mutters softly to Tyl, "Smile... it'll make people wonder what you're up to." <Zoya> I rather suspect we don't want to know. And I'm *quite* certain I don't want to know what sort of "more personal" price he'll demand if we don't bring that birdcage back. ::to Tyl:: Spyglass? I might... Let me see. ::she rummages in her sleeves for a bit, pulling out more strange and random bric-a-brac than a kender's pockets, before finally emerging with a smallish collapsible spyglass. She offers it to Tyl:: What are you looking for? * Deanna chuckles, "Well I doubt I can shock anyone here with the way I dress. Though honestly, I think that's a good thing." <Tyl> ::holding the glass up and focusing:: Landmarks... if I can see it clear enough, I can move us quite a distance... * Lisl shakes her head a little as Zoya partially unburdens her sleeves. <Zoya> ::grins:: Excellent idea. Why don't we get out of town first, though. You'll be able to see further, without so many obstacles. <Tyl> ::nodding:: Why walk if we don't have to, and I *don't* want to see what passes for a horse around here... * Lisl lets out a breath, shaking her arms and rolling her head around a little to unlimber. <Jaret> ::quietly:: Are you all right, Lisl? <Lisl> ::nods:: Just a little jumpy. The air here is... bad. Pushes a lot of the wrong buttons. <Zoya> ::smiles faintly at Lisl:: I know what you mean. <Jaret> I can't say as I directly understand, but I'll be glad to get home, too. * Tyl nods. "Fastest begun, fastest done." She heads out of town towards the mountains. <Michelle> I understand. This place is making me think about taking up an opium habit. * Gestalt follows Tyl. * Tyl gives Michelle an exceptionally dubious look. * Jaret heads out alongside Tyl. <Lisl> Let's just say my body can't decide between heaving up my guts or ripping something to bloody shreds. Or both. ::glancing back at the inn once more before following along:: * Tyl makes sure she's more than a few steps *ahead* of Lisl, in case she decides on the former activity. <Zoya> ::snorts:: In case you were wondering - I could wait a long time before finding out what the magic here tastes like. * Lisl grimaces and shakes herself again, lengthening her stride to catch up. <Tyl> ::when they get a bit away from the town, Tyl holds up the spyglass again, looking through it carefully:: Hmmm... there's some sort of mist on the other side of the river, don't want to try and go through that. Guess the close side of the river is as far as we're getting the easy way... ::over the top of the mist, the craggy peaks of a mountain range can be seen quite easily:: <Zoya> ::hopefully, but not expectantly:: Maybe once we get closer, it'll be easier to see through the mist. <Lisl> ::mutters:: Can't wait to know what *that* smells like... on the other hand, maybe I can.... * Tyl nods. "We'll see... I don't like making portals where I can't see... it's a Bad Plan..." She focuses a little more. "There are people there... " She counts. "Five, sitting around a campfire, it looks like..." <Zoya> Wonderful. We'll make some friends. <Lisl> ::frowns:: Campers? *Here*? <Tyl> ::shrugs:: Why not? I mean, we'll be camping out here if this takes longer than a day or so... <Lisl> ::frowns:: Hope they're not after the same thing we are. <Zoya> Try not to get wound up before we get there, Lisl. <Tyl> ::snorts:: Too late for Lisl... <Deanna> Come on Lisl, what are the odds of that? <Zoya> Have you got enough detail to move us yet, Tyl? * Lisl gives Deanna a dirty look. "What were the odds that Arabel would be captured by an army of orcs?" <Jaret> Ladies, ladies... let's take things as we come. There's nothing to argue over yet. <Lisl> ::biting down on her irritation, bouncing on her toes a little:: Sorry, Jaret. <Tyl> ::nods:: Yeah... ::looks around at her friends:: Now, the thing is, don't *stop* until you're through. It'll hurt you, rather badly, if you stop midway. So, don't do it. Got that? ::she concentrates and then opens a shimmering portal. Through the hazy opening, they can see the bank of the river:: <Gestalt> ::Yohko nods and steps through the portal, moving out of the way so the others can come through quickly.:: <Zoya> ::looks at the portal curiously:: Interesting... What would happen if- ::she looks around quickly, with a faintly sheepish grin, and steps through the portal:: * Lisl follows Zoya through, putting one hand on the mage's shoulder to make sure she's not tempted to experiment. <Gestalt> ::Yohko staggers slightly as she reaches the other side of the portal.:: * Jaret steps through the portal after Lisl. He takes a few more steps after he gets through and then leans over and puts his hands on his knees. "Oh.... that was unexpected." * Zoya steps out the other side and drops into a sailor's roll for a few steps before turning to face Lisl with a mildly hurt look. "You didn't have to *push*." <Gestalt> ::Michelle and Deanna pass through the portal, both looking pale upon reaching the other side:: * Lisl squeezes her eyes shut, swallowing hard and putting a hand to her head, answering Zoya faintly. "Just making sure." ::the group around the fire look over as people stagger out of the portal nearby, and the closest one stands and walks over. He's backlit by the fire, and it's hard to make out his features. He's quite tall, and appears to be wearing plate armor of some kind:: * Tyl is the last one through and the portal shimmers closed behind her. "Sorry not to warn you." She puts one hand to her forehead while she waits for the world to stop spinning. "I didn't want anyone to hesitate..." * Zoya looks around at the assorted pale faces. "And you people say *my* 'ports are bad..." <Zoya> ::offers the newcomer a wary smile:: Good evening. ::the tall figure stops and laughs, and speaks with an oddly familiar accent:: Well. You've finally arrived. <Tyl> ::mutters:: Your ports *are* bad. Just because mine are... ::she stops, looking at the figure:: <Zoya> ::cocks her head, narrowing her eyes slightly to try to make out the stranger's features:: Have you been waiting for us? * Anders leans over and helps Jaret stand up straight. "I thought you'd never get out of Marsember." <Anders> Waiting, aye. All of us. <Lisl> ::frowns a little, nostrils flaring:: <Zoya> ::blinks at Jaret's father, stunned, then looks past him to the others at the fire:: <Gestalt> ::Deanna and Michelle look around, totally confused:: How did you know? * Tyl scrubs her face. <Lisl> ::nods warily:: Sir Anders. On vacation, were you? ::the others from the group stand up and walk over. A man in iridescent robes... another in plain leathers with a black-tipped grey wolf pelt over his shoulder, another in green-scaled armor with a dragon emblem on the chest, and, lastly, Jalavier Bluestar.:: <Tyl> ::blinks:: <Bluestar> Most Favored Student. * Gestalt looks at the man in the green-scaled armor, "Arthur, what are you doing in the Abyss?" * Zoya stares at the man in iridescent robes for a long moment. "No. You're dead." She looks around at the others, then looks back at Vasiliy. "You died at my feet. You can't be here." * Weran is looking at Lisl. "You're... so big." * Lisl goes sheet-white, taking a step back and bringing up her Claws warily. "They're not real. They can't be." * Arthur bows. "I've been granted a... reprieve, of sorts. One last task." * Tyl hides her confusion by bowing her head to Bluestar. She puts one hand on her sword hilt, as if for balance. "Revered teacher..." <Vasiliy> What this one said. One last task, to ensure it gets carried out. <Zoya> No. ::points at Bluestar and Anders:: What about them? They're *alive*. <Anders> The sorts of things people will ask you to do to make sure they get done, and get done right. * Lisl drops into a fighter's crouch, Claws at the ready, looking all around warily. <Anders> So, we're here. You can just go home. Things are being taken care of. You're in over your heads. <Tyl> ::carefully:: What task? <Yohko> And what exactly are you doing to see that the task is completed? <Lisl> ::her voice a near-growl:: The Hells you say. You're not what you look like, and you're not stopping us. Now get out of our way before I make you. <Zoya> ::looks at Anders, then back to Vasiliy:: Now I *know* you're false. ::she sighs sadly:: Step aside, whatever you are, and let us pass. <Arthur> We'll go to Menekrates. We'll get the key, pop over to Grillek's plane, kill her, retrieve the sword, send it back, find the phylactery, and destroy it. <Vasiliy> ::reproachfully:: Zoya. Look at what you're doing. Let me do this for you. Spare you this burden. Let you go home. <Jaret> D... dad? The king asked us. We've got to do this. <Tyl> ::raises one eyebrow at Bluestar:: What, no sarcastic commentary, Most Revered Teacher? I'm surprised at you... a shame not to take advantage of such a splendid opportunity... <Bluestar> I was waiting for good sense to enter the conversation. It seems I might be waiting a long, long time. <Gestalt> ::Michelle clasps her hands together:: And exactly how are you going to accomplish these tasks without your souls? ::A faint white glow begins emanating from Michelle's body:: <Weran> Please, Lisl. Can't we... can't we just talk? There's been.... there's so much I want to say. * Tyl shakes her head sadly. "Did you think he wouldn't know you? After so long at your side?" She indicates the sword - still undrawn - at her side. <Zoya> ::tears raise in her eyes:: I wish you were who you say you are. I would give... ::shakes her head:: The task is ours. ::she closes her eyes briefly:: Lord Erdian, hide from me this beloved lie and show me the truth, I beseech You... <Arthur> Unfortunately, since I've been dead, my soul and I haven't had the same relationship as when I was among the living. It's hard to explain. * Lisl takes a few stiff steps forward, eyes blazing yellow, lips peeled back from her teeth in a silent snarl, her hair standing on end. She draws one Clawed hand back and drives it towards her "father's" belly with a growl. <Gestalt> ::Yohko and Deanna take defensive positions in front of Michelle:: * Weran tries to step back, but can't avoid Lisl's blow. The claws drive into his stomach and emerge, bloody, out his back. * Tyl winces as Lisl attacks. <Bluestar> It's always nice to see civility and sensibility take the lead. Most Favored Student? This is more than you can do. Go home. The students will be missing you. * Lisl grits her teeth, closing her eyes for a moment as she feels her Claws punch through his back. She opens them again as she withdraws her hand and pushes him back. <Tyl> I wish I could, Jalavier... or whoever you are. But I keep my word... ::she sighs:: Do I have to fight with you? I'd really rather not. * Zoya opens her eyes and seems disappointed to see Vasiliy still standing before her. She sighs softly. "Ah, well, this isn't the most accessible place for Him... You are dead, Master. Return to your rest." * Weran falls to the ground, blood streaming from his wounds. <Anders> Torm's sweet blessings... Jaret? This is what you travel around with? You expect to succeed with this tactic? Head home before you all destroy yourselves. <Michelle> Whatever you are, leave us be. You've done us no harm, but we can not permit you to dissuade us from our task. <Bluestar> Of course you don't have to fight with me. Just leave. Go back to Red Shroud and drown your sorrows for a while. * Lisl steps over her late father's body, striding to the riverbank and stopping at the water's edge, staring silently at her reflection. <Vasiliy> Zoya, you have better places to be than here. You have students of your own now. Go back to them. <Zoya> ::turns away from Vasiliy and touches Tyl's sleeve:: Come on. Let's go. ::she walks away from the others, toward the river, pondering a way to cross:: <Tyl> I can't... ::she turns to follow Zoya:: * Gestalt follows Zoya, with Yohko acting as a rear guard, not letting the apparitions out of her sight. <Arthur> ::to the three:: Ladies, I can't permit you to travel onwards. You're not capable of doing what you want to. Failure is not allowable, here. <Anders> And the same goes for you, Jaret. ::he clamps a hand on Jaret's shoulder:: You can't go on. <Deanna> If you want to stop us, you'll have to fight us. And if you were Arthur you'd know that you couldn't defeat us. * Vasiliy weaves his hands back and forth through the air, strands gathering between them. He throws them at the river, which rises up into a wall of water taller than the buildings in Broken Reach. "Zoya. No farther." <Arthur> Nevertheless. I must try. * Lisl draws in a deep breath and turns around, looking back at her companions. Her eyes shine with angry tears. * Zoya turns to face her departed Master, her face pale and expressionless, her eyes silver. Her Manacles glimmer into being, a half-dozen links dropping from her wrists. <Gestalt> ::Yohko holds out her hand and a white glow appears in it. The glow reshapes itself until she's holding a katana.:: For the last time, stand down. <Gestalt> ::Deanna moves a half step in front of Michelle:: <Gestalt> ::Michelle clasps her hands once more as if in prayer:: * Jaret looks at the hand on his shoulder and twists free of it. "Father? You never stood in my way of what I truly wanted to do before." He draws his rapier. "I do not believe you would do so now." * Lisl flicks her Claws, clearing blood from them, and wipes an arm quickly across her eyes before taking a deep breath and re-entering the fray, heading for Vasiliy. * Anders reaches back and draws the massive bastard sword that is slung across his back. "Because you've never been this wrong before. And, believe me, that takes some doing." <Arthur> As I have said... I can not. ::he rears back and transforms into a huge golden dragon, dwarfing everyone else:: <Bluestar> ::pulling two slim knives from his boots, one in each hand:: Tyl'Gainia... you're not really going to go through with this. Don't pretend otherwise. <Vasiliy> ::he drops his hands to his side, and his Manacles also shimmer into sight, nearly a dozen and a half from each wrist:: Can't you listen to me, Zoya? Did I ever lead you wrong? ::he is ignoring Lisl's approach:: * Tyl reaches into her vest pocket without looking around and removes a small, triangular throwing knife. "I never bluff, Jalavier. You know that." She whirls on her heel and throws the blade. It zips faster than any throwing weapon possibly could, straight for Bluestar's heart. * Zoya ignores Vasiliy's words and reaches out with a hand, not toward him, but the campfire. She beckons, and a gout of flame leaps toward the older mage. Zoya grunts softly, as if in pain, but holds her hand steady. Her free hand, however, spreads over her thigh. A moment later a dark stain, like blood, appears under her fingers. <Gestalt> ::The katana in Yohko's hand transforms into a naginata as she jumps at Arthur, seeking to drive the blade through his skull:: <Gestalt> ::Deanna assumes a position of prayer identical to Michelle's, at the same time the aura around Michelle explodes outward enveloping Deanna and the others immediately around Michelle:: * Jaret engages his father, who is in a standard defensive posture. They test each other out for a few moments, and then Jaret lunges and puts his blade deep into Anders's thigh, wincing as he does so. * Lisl walks faster, breaking into a silent run as Zoya's flame reaches out and leaping for Vasiliy's back. * Anders stiffens as Jaret's sword runs through him, and slides off of it and to the ground. * Arthur's head snaps back as the naginata drives into it, and the dragon body falls like a stone to the ground. * Bluestar jerks spasmodically as the throwing knife bursts through his chest, coming out the back in a messy splatter. He stands for a moment, hand twitching at the wound in his chest, and collapses. * Vasiliy raises his hands at the fire that races towards him, but it engulfs him anyway. Lisl's Claws oddly glance off his back with no apparent effect, but he soon crumples into ash. * Tyl stifles a sob, her violet eyes wide with horror, then turns away and falls to her knees, covering her face with her hands. ::the bodies lay still on the grey earth for several heartbeats, and then sink into the ground. The campfire remains behind, crackling as it burns:: <Gestalt> ::Yohko's weapon dissolves and she returns to Michelle and Deanna.:: * Lisl twists away from the flame as her attack rebounds, hitting the dirt with a soft "oof." * Jaret looks disbelievingly at his rapier, and then at his father's body, eyes widening as it sinks into the ground. <Gestalt> ::The glow around Michelle subsides as she takes a shaking Deanna into her arms:: * Zoya stands impassively until her Master's body crumples again. Then she shudders, putting one hand to her temple and gasping softly in pain both physical and emotional. * Lisl picks herself slowly up off the dirt, eyes still yellow, looking around at the disappearing corpses. "Someone's going to pay dearly for this." ::the river water falls back into its banks with a loud crash:: <Michelle> Let's just get on with this. I don't want to give the denizens of this place any more opportunities to concoct something as personal as that. * Tyl misquotes something she read in a book she stole from some vampires once. "Our fathers who are in the heavens..." <Jaret> I... I know where I want to go when this is over. I want to go home. * Lisl flares her nostrils again, looking around with a frown before her gaze settles on Zoya. "Zoya? Are you alright?" * Zoya draws a deep breath (sulphurous air be damned) and lets it out slowly. "Mostly. I slipped, and the surge..." She looks down at her bloodstained trousers. "I *knew* the magic here would be nasty." * Jaret makes his way to Tyl, kneels next to her, and puts a hand on her shoulder. "Tyl.. that couldn't have been them. It couldn't have been." <Michelle> Do you want me to patch that up Zoya, or do you think we'll be better off saving our strength for what's ahead? * Tyl turns to Jaret and suddenly clings to him, weeping. "I know... but... " She seems unable to continue with that thought, soaking Jaret's shoulder with her tears. * Jaret hugs her fiercely, his own eyes shining with unspilled tears. <Zoya> ::glances at Tyl and Jaret, then nods to Michelle:: It's not bad, but a short rest couldn't hurt us. * Lisl walks back to the riverbank, staring into the water. <Gestalt> ::Deanna chuckles in an obvious attempt to get her own emotions under control:: Kind of them to leave us a campfire to rest by. * Tyl shudders and gets herself under control. "You know, Jaret, you're a very convenient height, for a human." She gives him a quick squeeze and kisses his cheek warmly. "Are you all right?" <Jaret> A very polite way to phrase it, Tyl'Gainia. I'm... well, I'm as well as can be expected. ::he looks over to Lisl:: Excuse me for a moment. * Jaret makes his way over to Lisl. "Lisl? Are you all right?" * Gestalt walks over to Zoya, "Sit down Zoya, I can at least bandage this for you before we go on." <Lisl> ::turning her head slightly to acknowledge Jaret's approach:: I'll... live. I usually do. ::her voice still carries an undertone of growl:: You? * Zoya glances around, shrugs, and half-shucks her trousers before she sits so Michelle can get to the wound that inexplicably opened in her thigh. * Gestalt opens her pack and pulls out her healing supplies and begins cleaning Zoya's wound.:: I hope this doesn't happen every time you cast a spell while we're here Zoya. <Jaret> I've had better days, but I'm sure you knew that by now. I'm sure we all have. <Zoya> It... shouldn't. I was just too shaken to keep proper grip. ::she sounds ashamed:: <Lisl> ::nods, her voice a little softer, tightly leashed:: I'm sorry, Jaret... I know it must've been hard for you. <Gestalt> ::Michelle finishes cleaning the wound and begins bandaging it.:: I really hope we don't run into anything else quite that personal. <Zoya> Me, too. ::glances over to where the bodies had been:: I'm glad they weren't as tough as who they appeared to be. * Tyl runs her fingers over the hilt of Bluestar's short sword. Her fingers tremble and she mouths something to herself in elven. <Jaret> It wasn't easy on any of us. Come on back to the fire. Away from the river, at least. I don't want to find out what sort of fish might live in it. <Gestalt> ::Michelle nods in agreement:: <Lisl> ::turns to look at him, finally, her eyes still golden:: Well, that's the thing... it *was.* Easy, that is. ::she looks away, looking out across the river one more time:: It's always easy when I'm angry. ::she turns to walk back to the fire:: * Zoya pulls her pants back on and straightens her clothes. "Thank you." She stands, bouncing gingerly on her injured leg before deciding it's mostly all right, then walks back toward the river, looking up and down it for a way to cross that won't require magic. * Jaret follows Lisl back to the fire. * Lisl sits, wrapping her arms around her bent knees and resting her head against them. <Gestalt> ::Deanna looks at the river:: Too bad Yamato isn't still around. He could get us across the river no problem. ::the river isn't too wide, maybe ten yards or so at the narrowest point nearby, but it seems to be deep and swift:: <Zoya> Did he keep a canoe in his pocket? ::grins at Deanna briefly:: <Gestalt> ::Deanna grins:: No, but I wish I'd suggested it to him. <Zoya> ::ponders the far bank:: It's not *that* far... Tyl, can you see well enough to 'port us across? And maybe along a way. * Lisl takes several deep breaths, in through her nose, out through her pursed lips, and lifts her head to stare at the fire. * Tyl nods, not quite looking at Zoya. She reaches into her pocket and pulls out a small gem that glints redly in her hand. "Give me a moment..." * Zoya nods and begins to pace in long, thoughtful strides. <Lisl> ::quietly:: Thanks, Jaret. <Jaret> Anytime, Lisl. <Gestalt> ::Deanna and Michelle settle down around the fire while Yohko patrols around the fire.:: * Tyl spends a long moment obviously composing herself. She closes her eyes and chants a low stream of repeating nonsense syllables as the lines of pain and stress fade from her timeless features. <Tyl> ::the ruby in her hand crumbles to crimson dust and scatters to the winds as she opens another rift:: * Lisl gets to her feet slowly, shaking off sand and mood as she strides back over to the riverbank and Tyl's portal. * Gestalt stand and move towards Tyl's portal. <Zoya> ::gesturing to the others:: Come on. ::She nods to Tyl and walks through the portal.:: * Jaret smoothly stands up, shaking his hands out before walking over and through Tyl's portal. He comes out the other side and leans over again, looking worriedly around. * Lisl takes several deep, settling breaths before walking through, shaking herself quickly on the other side. * Tyl waits until everyone has passed through, then squats a moment to touch the ground where Bluestar's corpse vanished. "Forgive me, Revered Teacher." * Tyl gets to her feet again and crosses through the portal, letting it close behind her. <Gestalt> ::Yohko surveys the area worriedly.:: * Lisl tips her head back, sampling the air. * Lisl wrinkles her nose and looks disgusted. * Zoya looks around for anything that might be considered "spine trees", then looks back at Tyl. "Any idea how far we've come?" ::aside from the river being behind them instead of in front, the landscape is much the same. The mist is much lighter and easier to see through up close, and the mountains loom close by:: <Tyl> ::shrugs:: I'm not certain. Not very far, really. I... didn't want to take any more chances. <Zoya> ::nods:: So... maybe a mile or two, altogether? ::off to one side, near the base of the mountains is a dark smudge that might be a grove of dark trees:: <Lisl> ::nods in the direction of the smudge, squinting a little:: Still got that spyglass? * Tyl hands the glass over to Lisl. "Further than that... I suspect the first jump was about six miles? Maybe. It's hard to tell. Distances can be deceiving." * Lisl brings the glass to her eye, focusing on the dark patch. <Zoya> Ah, good. I hadn't realized we'd come so far to begin with. <Deanna> See anything Lisl? ::through the spyglass, Lisl can see some dark trees that appear to be somewhat... fuzzy, next to the large mouth to a cave.:: <Lisl> ::keeping the glass to her eye, turning slowly to survey the area around the dark patch:: There's something there... trees, can't quite make them out from here. And there's a cave right near them. <Zoya> Sounds promising... Let's head that way, and we can look again when we get closer. <Michelle> Sounds as good as anything since we got here. * Tyl nods and walks in a ground-eating pace in that direction, her eyes scanning the area for possible threats. * Zoya follows, in much the same watchful mode. * Gestalt follows Tyl, Yohko once more taking up a guard position a step behind Michelle. * Lisl closes the spyglass, frowning thoughtfully, and hands it back to Zoya as she follows after, tilting her head back and scanning the mountain peaks and the horizon around them. * Jaret walks along, a few paces out to one side, toying with the hilt of his rapier. ::the party closes on the cave and the trees at a good pace, the mountains seeming to never get closer, still towering over them even as the more human-scale features -- the cave mouth and the trees -- slowly and slowly get closer:: * Lisl scans the terrain around them as they walk, eyes lingering on possible areas of cover and/or ambush. <Zoya> ::After a mile or so, Zoya pulls out the spyglass and peers through it at the trees and the cave.:: * Lisl tilts her head back again, sampling the air, turning her head to determine the direction of the wind currents, if any. ::the trees and the cave are closer, still the only landmark of note along the foot of the mountains, but at this distance, details are still sparse:: <Lisl> ::softly:: I realize this is going to get repetitive, but... I don't like this. * Jaret watches what is nearby as well, keeping an eye out for anything that might jump out and try to eat his brain. * Gestalt continues walking, clearly more concerned with the immediate vicinity than the progress towards the cave:: * Lisl keeps her eyes on the still-distant point of the cave, eyes peeled for any hint of movement. Every so often, she glances up to scan the horizon. * Tyl gives Lisl a half-smile. "All right, Lisl... I'll just pretend you've said it every twenty seconds or so, and then you won't have to, ok?" <Zoya> ::laughs softly:: <Lisl> ::grins at Tyl:: Long as you don't tell me to shut up. <Gestalt> ::Deanna grins:: Shut up Lisl. <Zoya> Now, now. Let's not *deliberately* get under each others' skin... * Lisl mutters something under her breath. <Deanna> Sorry Lisl. Just trying to lighten the mood. <Lisl> S'okay. I'm just being really glad you're not Felice just now. <Gestalt> ::Deanna looks down:: She wanted to come but... She's not you. <Jaret> ::grinning:: Who is? <Gestalt> ::Deanna chuckles:: True enough. <Lisl> ::mutters softly:: There are some things to be thankful for... ::further viewings through the spyglass as the party draws closer reveals the trees are in fact covered with spines. Soon, the party is within a half mile or so, and can guesstimate the height of the mouth of the cave at twelve to fifteen feet, with the trees being about double that:: * Tyl looks at the trees. "What lovely vegetation." :: step by step, closer still, until the party draws even with the first of the spine trees. The cave mouth is no more than a couple hundred yards away:: <Zoya> ::looks up at the spine tree dubiously:: Well. Let's hope Red Shroud was right... <Gestalt> ::Michelle nods in agreement:: * Lisl puts a finger to her lips and tips her head back again, testing the wind. She gestures the group towards the right of the cave, downwind. * Zoya looks vaguely amused, but follows Lisl's directions. * Gestalt follows Lisl. <Menekrates> ::as the group draws closer, a large shadow stirs in the cave:: * Jaret follows Lisl, casting a glance at the cave mouth. * Lisl narrows her eyes and stops, cursing softly and creatively in elvish. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: So much for sneaky. It knows we're here. <Menekrates> ::a dim shape begins to step out of the shadows, walking on all fours. It is thick-bodied, and with a twitching tail. As Menekrates steps out into the light at the mouth of the cave, it becomes apparent he is a large, two-headed sphinx:: <Zoya> ::mouth moves in a silent curse:: <Lisl> ::raises an eyebrow:: Well... that's not what I expected. <Tyl> ::glances at Lisl:: You had expectations? Optimist. <Lisl> ::looks sidelong at Tyl:: Pessimist. Get it right. <Deanna> Someone was saying something about wishing Felice was here? <Menekrates> ::one head has black hair, and a black beard, and instead of a leonine appearance, the face looks more like a monkey, and is the picture of health. The other head is golden haired and bearded, and is more classically leonine, but it is withered and shrunken, the eyes having trouble focusing on the group in front of it:: * Menekrates sinks down to sit on his haunches, looking down at the party. When he speaks, it is the black-haired head. "What brings you to my home?" <Zoya> ::glances at the others:: If you are Menekrates, we seek two things. * Tyl bows formally - pouncey things being the sort one is very polite to. "We're looking for the key to Grillek's lair, if you please, sir." <Menekrates> ::the rest of Menekrates's body is that of a sphinx -- like a winged lion:: <Zoya> ::nods at Tyl:: And a bird in a birdcage that Red Shroud claims is - or was once - his. <Menekrates> ::the black head grins, and the golden one lolls about:: Is that so. <Menekrates> Answer my riddle, and you'll have the key. Have as many guesses as you like, but for each incorrect guess... one of you becomes my supper. And as for the gilded cage, it pleases me to keep it. If you guess the riddle right, you may have that, as well. As a gift. <Lisl> ::stepping forward:: Cage and bird both? * Menekrates laughs. "Bird? Of a sort, I suppose. Yes, the cage and its occupant. Now, are you ready for my riddle?" * Lisl steps back with a glance at Zoya and Tyl. <Zoya> Let us hear it. <Menekrates> Think of words ending in -GRY. Angry and hungry are two of them. There are only three words in the Common tongue. What is the third word? The word is something that everyone uses every day. If you have listened carefully, I have already told you what it is * Menekrates settles down, his front legs stretched out in front of him, and he contemplates those gathered before him. * Zoya bows to the sphinx. "Allow us to withdraw a little, and discuss our answer." <Menekrates> Of course. Stay within my sight, however. * Tyl looks at Zoya with a puzzled shrug. "I'm no good at riddles..." * Gestalt withdraws with the rest of the party, all three clearly puzzling over the riddle. <Lisl> Gods... word games. ::looks faintly disgusted:: You should've brought your apprentice after all, Zoya. <Gestalt> ::Yohko nods in agreement:: <Zoya> So it seems. * Jaret joins the group. "This wasn't what I expected." <Zoya> Something that everyone uses... ::musing:: <Deanna> I'm coming up with lots of words ending in y, but nothing with gry. <Jaret> I like to think I have a well developed vocabulary, but I can't think of any more words ending in -gry. * Tyl considers the riddle. <Lisl> Augury? No... that doesn't sound right, and it's not like that's a word people use every day.... <Tyl> ::shakes her head:: Are you sure you can spell, Lisl? That's -gury. * Tyl paces around, her hands clasped behind her back. "... there are only three words in the Common tongue." <Lisl> ::makes a face:: Hey, I *said* it didn't sound right... ::shakes her head:: Wait, now... he said something about "he already told us"-- there's a trick to this, there's got to be. <Michelle> He claimed he'd already told us what it was. <Tyl> ::nods:: There's *always* a trick to riddles... I mean, that's why they're riddles. Like doors being ajar and all. <Yohko> Ener... No, not a gry. <Lisl> ::frowns at Tyl:: Explain that? <Jaret> "If you've listened carefully..." I listened to that more carefully than anything I've listened to before, and I didn't hear an answer. <Zoya> ::tentatively:: "Gry" *is* a word... ::she glances back at the leonine creature:: It means "to roar." <Tyl> When is a door not a door... when it's ajar... stupid, I know... but that why it's a riddle. The very obvious answer is never the right one. <Lisl> ::looks up at Zoya:: Let me be the one to answer. At least if he eats me, I've got the best chance of surviving it. ::looks wry:: <Zoya> I'm not sure that's the answer. It's a very uncommon word... <Jaret> I don't think 'gry' is it. I certainly don't roar every day. Or use a roar. <Tyl> ::grins at Zoya:: Well, I don't roar every day... Bluestar does... well, sometimes, at any rate. And I never heard of that word before. <Gestalt> ::Deanna looks at Zoya skeptically:: That would fit everything except that people using it everyday line. Though it would invalidate the riddle. <Lisl> When it's... ::frown deepening:: Oh, I get it. <Lisl> Hm... Zoya, you've got a better head for memorization than I do... can you repeat what he said? Exactly? * Zoya closes her eyes. "Think of words ending in -GRY. Angry and hungry are two of them. There are only three words in the Common tongue. What is the third word? The word is something that everyone uses every day. If you have listened carefully, I have already told you what it is." <Menekrates> ::the black head lazily smiles at the conferring bunch:: <Lisl> ::repeating softly:: Think of words ending in -GRY... three words in the Common tongue. What is the third word? What is... ::trails off and takes several deep breaths, staring very hard at nothing:: * Tyl mutters to herself. "What is the eleven letter word that everyone spells incorrectly? Incorrectly." <Zoya> Wait. He didn't say there are only three words *ending in GRY* in the Common tongue. Just that there are only three words in the Common tongue. Doesn't that seem odd to you? <Zoya> Sphinxes are usually very precise... <Zoya> "The Common Tongue." We do all use our tongues every day, don't we? <Lisl> ::trembles a little:: I think... I think that's it.... <Michelle> Yeah... but... Oh gods, I think you're right. <Yohko> What exactly did he say again Zoya? * Zoya looks back at the sphinx. When she repeats his words, her voice drops almost to match the creature's tone. "Think of words ending in -GRY. Angry and hungry are two of them. There are only three words in the Common tongue. What is the third word? The word is something that everyone uses every day. If you have listened carefully, I have already told you what it is." * Gestalt all nod in agreement, "I think you've got it Zoya." <Lisl> Right. ::sounds a little disgusted:: I knew there had to be a trick to it somewhere. * Tyl shrugs. "Better guess than I might have come up with. I'm lousy with these sorts of things." * Zoya almost looks unhappy at this. "I was hoping someone would think of a better answer, actually..." <Lisl> Unless... he means the third word of the riddle? ::tips her head back, lips moving as she recites to herself silently:: Um... "words"? They're used every day, too. <Michelle> True, but that doesn't explain the Common tongue line. <Lisl> ::grunts agreement:: Mm. Point. <Lisl> So... ::glances back over her shoulder at the Sphinx:: We go with Zoya's answer? <Yohko> Unless someone can come up with an objection to it. <Zoya> ::grimaces:: I'll go. I can't think of anything else, anyway. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: I'll go. ::grins without humor:: After all, I already know I can survive being a snack. I hope. * Tyl mutters under her breath. <Jaret> If it looks like it's going to... if it looks like we've guessed wrong, Lisl, it doesn't live to see another day. We'll find another way. * Gestalt nods in agreement. <Zoya> ::chews on her lip:: All right. * Lisl nods shortly. "I trust Zoya's head." <Lisl> Okay. ::looks around the group:: Ready? * Jaret nods. "Born ready." * Gestalt nods * Tyl shrugs. "Whenever you are..." * Lisl nods again and turns around, rolling out her shoulder to loosen her muscles and striding back to face the reclining sphinx. * Menekrates sits up. "Do you have an answer for me?" * Lisl nods once, shortly, and lifts her chin, speaking clearly. "Our answer is 'tongue.'" <Menekrates> ::as Lisl starts speaking, the sphinx begins to reach out toward her with a clawed paw/hand. When she speaks the answer, it stops, raises its head, and screams in fury:: * Lisl allows herself a small grin, watching the sphinx carefully. <Zoya> ::shivers with relief as the sphinx vents its anger:: <Gestalt> ::Deanna whispers:: I take it that means we got it right. <Menekrates> ::the golden head springs up, and the haze that was covering the ice blue eyes drops away. The golden head reaches up with 'its' paw, and reaches into the mouth of the screaming black-haired head. There is a struggle, a sickening noise, and the golden haired head pulls out the tongue of the black-haired sphinx and throws it to the ground:: * Tyl winces and jumps backwards. "Oh, dis*gust*ing." <Zoya> ::blinks:: Well. That's... different. * Lisl takes a defensive step back as the lion-side paw lifts, bringing her Claws up. <Gestalt> ::Michelle turns her head away from the scene of the sphinx disfiguring itself.:: <Menekrates> ::the heads ripple, and the black-haired head withers and shrivels, and the golden-haired head grows healthier, and more vigorous. The tongue lying on the ground wriggles and shrinks, until it's a black strip the size of a palm. The golden-haired head opens its mouth wide for a deep breath, and its tongue can be seen growing back from the root of an old wound:: * Lisl watches, shaking her head grinning a little. She mutters something that sounds like, "No wonder..." * Menekrates steps forward. "Thank you for freeing me from that abominable curse." <Tyl> ::looking up:: You were cursed? * Menekrates looks down at Tyl. "If I'd had my druthers, I wouldn't have been sitting in a nasty cave in the Abyss. Trust me." <Tyl> ::snickers:: Can't say I blame you on that one... who cursed you? <Zoya> ::stepping forward to nudge the monkey-head's tongue with her toe:: That's not the key, is it? <Menekrates> Grillek. She wanted a guardian for the key, and we've had an old grudge, from when she was alive. <Menekrates> And, yes, I'm afraid that is the key. <Tyl> Heh... *we* have an old grudge from when she was dead *last* time... <Yohko> I'm amazed we managed to kill her the first time. * Zoya fishes a bit of parchment out of her sleeve and bends down to gingerly wrap the tongue in it. * Menekrates nods. "She's weakened, but still quite powerful. Her physical form might not be as mighty, but her magics have become even stronger than before." <Lisl> ::looks sour and mutters:: So tell us the *bad* news... <Tyl> Peachy. I'm so happy... ::looks up at him again:: Don't suppose we can still have that bird cage? <Zoya> ::grimaces:: I was afraid you might say that. ::looks hopeful:: I don't suppose there's any other way you could help us...? <Lisl> ::glances at Tyl:: And the bird-that's-not-a-bird. Heh. <Menekrates> Oh. Yes, you did ask for it. ::he lets out a massive sigh, turns, goes back into the cave, and returns with a birdcage that has a cloth cover over it, one claw hooked through the top ring.:: Here it is. * Lisl reaches up to unhook the birdcage, peeking quickly under the cloth. * Lisl drops the cloth, straightening slowly and taking a deep breath. "Sir, will you answer one other thing, if you know it?" <Menekrates> If I know it. * Zoya looks curiously at Lisl. <Lisl> Who was responsible for that... bit of interference on the riverbank? * Tyl goes over to peek under the cloth. <Menekrates> That was Grillek's doing. A last step to discourage any on the path to my doorstep. * Lisl eyes Tyl, turning slightly to lift the cloth and give the entire group a quick look at the glowing, winged creature within. The hand holding the cage quivers slightly. <Menekrates> ::inside the cage is an eight-inch tall angel. He/it is glowing, like a small star.:: <Tyl> ::eyebrow:: That's a starling? <Gestalt> ::Michelle sighs:: I knew it was going to be something like this. <Lisl> ::shrugs as she drops the cloth again:: One thing at a time. And Grillek just moved to the very top of my list. <Menekrates> That is... one name for it, yes. <Zoya> Do you know how to get to the correct door, with the key? <Jaret> I'm tempted to ask who was there before, Lisl, but I'll let that remain a private matter. <Menekrates> Although there are infinite doors, it does not matter which you use, as long as you have the desired key. <Zoya> ::grins:: Well, that helps. ::she bows:: Thank you. * Tyl stares at the covered cage, her hand balling into a clenched fist. <Lisl> ::glances at Jaret, her eyes glinting yellow:: Before, it was for duty. Now she's seriously pissed me off. * Menekrates spreads his wings. "I will leave now." He looks over the group consideringly. "I can take you to Broken Reach, if you want, before I go." <Zoya> ::glances around:: That would be kind of you. <Tyl> ::looks up at him:: You're very kind. <Lisl> That would be a help, yes. ::glances at Tyl's expression, and eyes Zoya musingly:: Zoya, I need your memory again. What exactly did Red Shroud say about this again? ::holds up the cage:: <Zoya> ::sighs and frowns, rolling her eyes up slightly:: "Bring back the birdcage, with its starling still in it, and you will have paid me a debt." <Zoya> Why? * Menekrates gets close to the ground. "After what you've gone through... it's little enough." <Zoya> ::looks around:: Compared to what you seem to have gone through? A trifle. ::she grins, however, as she carefully climbs up onto the broad back, then leans down to help up the shorter members of the party:: * Jaret carefully climbs on with Zoya's helping hand. * Gestalt climbs on. <Lisl> ::her smile is nasty as she takes Zoya's hand, climbs up on Menekrates' back, and settles her seat:: I'm minded that following the letter of the law rather than the spirit is no more than what's expected in this place. * Tyl lets Lisl sit in the back, since she'll be fine if she has to bounce. <Zoya> ::frowns:: How do you plan to twist that? It seems clear enough... * Menekrates spreads his wings and lifts off with powerful wing beats. He covers the distance to Broken Reach fairly rapidly. * Zoya watches the land pass under them with obvious delight. <Lisl> ::feigning innocence:: Well, he didn't say anything about the cage being locked when he got it.... <Zoya> ::snorts:: <Zoya> Does the cage *have* a conventional lock? <Lisl> Dunno. But if it comes to that, I know someone who's very good with locks. And at the worst... I have a very unconventional key. * Tyl sighs. "I wonder if it's more than it seems. I mean... so many things are, around here. Maybe it's hostile. Or something. Hard to say." <Zoya> ::chuckles:: <Menekrates> ::soon, Menekrates swoops down on Broken Reach, and allows the group to dismount:: <Tyl> ::slides to the ground:: Thank you for everything. * Zoya bows. "Thank you again." <Deanna> Best of luck Menekrates. <Menekrates> Thank you all. Good luck on your hunting. How, if you'll excuse me, I want to go home. * Lisl slides down Menekrates' shoulder carefully, still holding the cage. "Thanks for the ride. And, well, not eating me." <Tyl> ::softly:: Yeah, me too. * Jaret dismounts. "My thanks as well. Pleasant journey." * Gestalt dismounts. * Lisl lifts the edge of the cloth again a little, careful to keep the glow towards her body, turning the cage around carefully, inspecting it for a door. * Menekrates nods one last time and then rapidly flies away, rising higher and higher into the black sky until he can't be seen any more. * Zoya watches as Menekrates flies away, looking hopefully to see if any feathers fall as he climbs into the sky. <Tyl> ::to herself:: I wonder what he'll want... * Zoya sighs in disappointment, then turns back to the others. "Well... What shall we do about this?" She waves at the cage. ::the cage does have a small hinged door, and a intricate lock:: <Gestalt> ::Michelle shrugs:: I'm inclined to go with Lisl's idea, but I suspect if we do we're going to wind up fighting everyone in the bar. * Tyl shrugs. "Maybe we should just ask him. No one's lied to us so far." * Zoya bends to inspect the starling. "I don't even know what it is. Tyl could be right, you know. Evil can be just as pretty as good." <Lisl> ::mutters:: Well... no one *real*, anyway.... <Zoya> ::grins at Tyl:: "Look, we're back! Would you mind telling us what we've got here, so we can decide whether we want to give it to you?" <Jaret> I don't... we did say we'd bring it back. But I didn't think it'd be a... an angel. Or something that looks like an angel. <Lisl> Yeah, but it's locked in a cage at the top of the Abyss. That's a mark on the "good" side, in my book. Besides... ::glancing away, looking uncomfortable:: Aerdrie wouldn't like this... <Tyl> ::decisively:: I suggest we ask him. What is it, why is he keeping it, and what the price for his aid is if we don't return it. I'd like to know the... consequences. <Zoya> ::gives Lisl a look:: I'm not saying it's a bad idea, Lisl. I'm saying, we have to consider the consequences. If he decides that the letter of the agreement isn't enough, which of us is going to pay his "more personal" price? <Lisl> Mmm. Well, either way, we'll probably get a nice bar fight, sooo... <Zoya> ::looks at Tyl, amused:: Sure. What the- ::she looks around cautiously:: What the heck? <Lisl> Then again, there's two side to everything... ::lifts up the edge of the curtain again, squinting a little at the glowing creature inside:: Excuse me... can you understand us? * Starling looks up at Lisl blankly. <Lisl> ::sighs and lowers the curtain again with a shrug:: Ah, well. <Tyl> ::shrugs again:: Or, we could just accept that sometimes... things don't go as we'd like them. This is a different place, and different rules apply. ::looks at Lisl:: I don't think fighting a bunch of people here will do us any good, and could be very dangerous. <Zoya> Come on. I'm tired. If we survive this, I want to get some sleep. ::she walks up the street toward the inn:: * Gestalt follows Zoya. <Lisl> ::snorts:: We're here in the *first* place because it's dangerous, and things weren't going as we liked. But.. ::sigh:: You're right. We'll ask. Can't hurt... much. * Jaret heads into the inn with everyone else. <Tyl> ::looks depressed:: We have to consider the long view, as well... if we all die here in a bar brawl, what will happen to Cormyr? It doesn't bear thinking about. <Zoya> We'll ask. That, at least, shouldn't hurt us. <Gestalt> ::Deanna snorts:: I'm convinced breathing hurts us in this place. * Tyl follows Zoya to the inn, staring at the street as she walks. <Red Shroud> ::the inn is as it was before, although somewhat less populated. Red Shroud is behind the bar again:: You're back! And with time to spare. * Lisl enters behind Jaret, carrying the covered cage. <Zoya> So we are. ::she seats herself at the bar:: We were wondering... what *is* that? ::she nods at the cage:: * Red Shroud holds his hands out for the cage. "That is a starling. It sings the most delightful songs, providing it's cared for properly." <Tyl> It's not... native to this place, is it? I've never seen anything like it. <Red Shroud> No, it's not. It's native to one of the Upper Planes. I purchased it off a traveler who had it and didn't know what to do with it. <Zoya> Is it intelligent? <Lisl> ::keeping her arms wrapped stolidly around the cage, letting Zoya continue:: * Red Shroud furrows his brow, looking at Lisl and Zoya. "I haven't asked it to take any tests. Was my good faith in you misplaced?" * Zoya looks over at Tyl. <Tyl> ::takes a deep breath:: In truth, we're a little uncomfortable with it... being imprisoned. We value freedom and free will. ::she bites her lip:: <Red Shroud> You do know where you are? Stop for a moment and imagine what would happen if that were to be released, *here*. <Lisl> We're exploring our options... we owe you for the information you gave us. ::nods to the cage:: You indicated this was one way to cancel our debt. <Lisl> And for that matter... we, at least, don't intend to *stay* "here." * Tyl closes her eyes wearily. <Red Shroud> It is, indeed, the preferred way. I'm disappointed to see that you wish to renegotiate, now that you've got what you came here for. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: Who said we're renegotiating yet? I just want to know exactly what's on the table. * Zoya looks at Tyl again. "Is it intelligent? Can you find out?" <Red Shroud> This isn't renegotiating? You may call it exploring options, but it seems quite apparent what it actually is. It's unfortunate that this isn't completely palatable to you, but I don't think that was ever promised. * Tyl opens her eyes, blinking. She shakes her head. "It's... not very bright." She looks at Red Shroud. "You do take care of it, don't you?" * Zoya nods and looks over at Lisl. "Let it go. We have more important things, at the moment." <Red Shroud> ::exasperated:: Yes. I feed it and give it ambrosia to drink. I'm sorry if I don't have an Infernal Pet License to show off to all of you. My starling. Please. * Lisl looks from Tyl to Zoya and nods, stepping forward to place the covered cage on the counter. <Tyl> ::nods:: It's... maybe a little smarter than your average house pet. But its hungry and cold and it's terrified of being outside. ::she shrugs to Red Shroud:: We were concerned. I apologize if that offended you. * Red Shroud takes the cage off the counter. "Apology accepted. I'm afraid we don't have enough rooms left for you all to have your own. Unless you wish to sleep out in the scrub?" <Zoya> No. We'll share rooms willingly. How many have you to spare? <Red Shroud> Three. * Red Shroud puts three keys on the counter. "Fifteen gold. Times are tough. I'm sure you'll understand." * Tyl produces three platinum coins from one pocket. "My treat, this time." <Lisl> ::grins a little:: Actually... I'm sort of reassured, that you don't get that many visitors here. <Zoya> ::nods to Tyl:: Thank you. <Tyl> ::pointing:: Me, Lisl, Zoya. Deanna, Yohko, Michelle. Jaret, I hope you're not afraid of the dark. * Red Shroud picks up the coins. "Down the hallway, down the stairs. Numbers are on the keys. Good night." He heads back through a door marked 'Private' behind the bar, closing it behind him. <Deanna> Right. ::takes the key and heads off down the hallway, Michelle and Yohko in tow.:: * Tyl takes a key and glances at the number, then follows the directions to the room. <Jaret> I imagine I'll be all right. Although it won't be the easiest sleep I've ever had, I assure you. <Lisl> ::nods:: If it's all the same, I'll sleep on Jaret's floor. I'm not too comfortable about us being split up, either. * Jaret takes his key, heads down the hall and the stairs, finds his room, goes inside, let's Lisl in, locks the door behind him, and is asleep soon after. * Tyl barely glances around before falling into one of the two beds in the room. * Gestalt goes to sleep. * Zoya follows Tyl closely, half-hanging off the bed before dropping into uneasy slumber. * Lisl shifts forms and turns twice in a circle before settling down on the floor in front of Jaret's door. |
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