The Soul Stealer's Strategy

Note: This block of logs does contain edited Immortal channels. It is posted with the specific written permission of all of the Immortals involved, and a Greater God.
Primary Participants in these scenes: Seraph, DarkClaw, Wish, Katrana, Cordir, Samiyah, Belgarion, Cresom .
More on this RP storyline can be found in:

• The Soul-Stealer
• The Soul Stealer's Bargain
• The Soul Stealer's Prey
• The Soul Stealer's Plan
• The Soul Stealer's Gambit

02/18/2013

A Bargain Is Struck

The Chat Room
[Exits:none]
You are in a spacious hall. Well-worn overstuffed black leather
couches against the walls match the armchairs that circle the fountain
in the center of the room. Plump dark red, blue and purple cushions on
the seating and a warmly glowing sphere of light floating near the
ceiling lend a cozy element to the timeless atmosphere of this doorless
hall.
A small white fountain gushes forth here.
(Invis 71) (Intense Dark Purple Aura) Seraph is here.
(Invis 71) (Intense Dark Red Aura) Wish is here.

Seraph says, 'morning wish'.

Wish says, 'ooc (i ticked off samiyah last night)'.
Wish says, 'or maybe this is in char?'.

Seraph says, 'how so?'.

Wish shrugs.
Wish says, 'I compared you to one of my houseplants'.

Seraph laughs.

Wish says, 'she didn't like that'.

Seraph says, 'guess not'.
Seraph laughs.

Wish says, 'she said "I have faith in my lord"
Wish says, 'and I said "Well, I have faith in my houseplant...and it has more power to grow than Seraph."'.
Wish comforts Seraph.

Wish says, 'oh sorry.'.
Wish says, 'she will come to you with a request'.

Seraph says, 'oh?'.

Wish says, 'i have made a bargain with her, but she is going to run it by you first'.

Seraph says, 'what’s the bargain'.

Wish says, 'i believe her search for your items is driving her insane'.
Wish says, 'normally i would not be too concerned'.

Seraph says, 'oh'.

Wish says, 'but she seems to believe me quite insane'.
Wish says, 'and keeps praying for my good mental health'.
Wish says, 'so i figure i should return the favor'.

Seraph says, 'so what's the bargain?'.

Wish says, 'My follower, Teva, has one of your items'.

Seraph nods in recognition to Wish.

Wish says, 'Similus...I told Sami that for her own good I would not allow he to see it...unless she first seeks out all knowledge of Lord Nash'.

Seraph says, 'worlds luckiest mortal'.

Wish says, 'she must educate herself in Nashite Lore'.

Seraph says, 'why?'.

Wish says, 'So that she at least understands the reason many of us believe Lord Nash to be the One True God'.

Seraph nods.

Wish says, 'she does not have to believe'.
Wish says, 'i would never force that upon her'.

Seraph says, 'just know'.

Wish says, 'exactly'.

Wish says, 'and if she chooses not to worship Lord Nash, that is her prerogative'.

Seraph says, 'sounds like a reasonable request'.

Wish says, 'and she will see that simply because I do believe, does not mean I am insane'.

Seraph says, 'and if teva loses the Similus?'.

Wish says, 'ahh, well, that's always a risk is it not?'.
Wish says, 'but it is a powerful weapon'.
Wish says, 'And such a weapon always wants to be found'.
Wish says, 'But, I vow that if it is in Alchemy's possession, I will make it available to her'.

Seraph says, 'how about you let her look at Similus and discover the power of it?
Seraph says, 'then search out Nash'.

Wish says, 'Well, I could do that, but she might very well go insane immediately and where would we be then?'.
Wish says, 'she is on the edge already'.

Seraph says, 'she will search for Nash no matter what'.

Wish says, 'She called me "rude", "mad", and took "pity" on me'.
Wish says, 'those do not seem the actions of a sane mortal'.

Seraph says, 'seems the actions of a mortal defending there belief

Wish says, 'lets put it this way'.
Wish says, 'i need her of sound mind and body when she seeks out the knowledge of Lord Nash'.
Wish says, 'anything less, and the seeking itself becomes corrupted'.
Wish says, 'of course, we could save her from any harm by letting her remain ignorant of both Nash and the Similus'.

Seraph says, 'let her see the Similus and i will make sure she will be fine'.

Wish says, 'I am sorry, Seraph, I have stated my terms.'.
Wish says, 'She must seek out Lord Nash'.

Seraph says, 'Similus called to her so it will drive her mad not seeing it'.

Wish says, 'and when she has completed that task, I shall make the Similus available to her.'.

Seraph says, 'and like i said if similus is gone which i figure it will be soon'.
Seraph says, 'then what she went on a quest for nothing'.

Wish says, 'Oh? Why do you believe the Similus will be gone soon? '.

Seraph says, 'Teva is hated and everyone wants him dead'.
Seraph says, 'so soon, he will be. Such a shame, too. He seems ok'.

Wish says, 'I will tell you what'.
Wish says, 'When I next see Teva, I will command him to give the item to me.'.
Wish says, 'and I shall keep it safe until her quest is complete'.
Wish says, 'do not have her begin the quest until I have the item in my possession'.

Seraph says, 'if it is your possession then i will agree to send her'.

Wish bows before Seraph.'.
Wish says, 'then we are agreed'.

Seraph says, 'until i see you with it i will not send her'.

Wish shakes Seraph's hand with his 2nd tentacle.

Seraph nods in recognition to you.

Wish says, 'fair enough'.

Seraph says, 'glad we worked it out wish'.
Seraph grins evilly at Wish.

Wish winks suggestively at Seraph.

Samiyah gossips (in common), 'my Greetings to you all'.

Seraph disappears instantly.

The Quest Is Given

Someone tells you, 'come to Wendell'.

Hallway
[Exits: north east south west down]
(White Aura) The newsboy stands here selling newspapers.

The Lower Hall
[Exits: north up]
A copy of the TFC Daily News lies here.
Mish Leigh Salvandor will use her contacts to help you... for a price.

The Lower Hall
[Exits: east south west]

The Office of the TFC Housing Authority
[Exits: west]
(White Aura) Wendell waits patiently while you decide where to live.

You bow deeply.

Someone steps out the shadows. You say (in common), 'hello, Sahib'.

Someone says, ‘I have spoken to Wish about Similus'.

You say (in common), 'He offered me a bargain last night'.
You say (in common), 'but I would not take it until I has spoken with You of it.'.

Someone says, 'we spoke about it just now'.
Someone says, 'when I see Wish holding Similus then you can seek out the Nashite beliefs if you want'.
Someone says, 'the choice is yours of course'.

You say (in common), ‘I find it offensive and blasphemous... but I will learn of it if that is the price to learn of You.'.
You say (in common), 'it, being Nashism'.

Someone says, 'that is your choice '.

You say (in common), 'Yes, Sahib. I understand.'.
Samiyah glances around.

Someone says, ‘I see you touched the helm'.

Samiyah shivers, remembering. "it was not my intent."

Someone says, 'next time be ready'.
Someone says, 'Similus will be much worse'.

You say (in common), ‘I told Sagan I was curious... but not ready... but then he handed it to me.'.

Someone nods.
Someone says, 'if I was you, I would start seeking Nash now. I believe Wish will keep his word'.
Someone says, 'yet again your choice'.

You say (in common), 'Yes, Sahib. I understand.'.

Someone turns and walks into the shadows.

Samiyah swallows nervously. "As is this."
Samiyah starts to reach up to her veil, then lets her hand fall.
Samiyah sighs, falling silent at Your departure.
Samiyah leans against the wall, sliding down it to sit on the floor.
Samiyah clasps her hands to still their shaking, murmuring, "show no weakness, sami.."

Wendell takes out a comb, slicks back his hair, and winks luridly at Samiyah.

You blink.

Samiyah blushes and rises quickly. The Lower Hall
[Exits: east south west]

The Offices of the Midgaard Daily News
[Exits: east]
(White Aura) The newsboy stands here selling newspapers.
(White Aura) Greta waits for you to place your advertisement.

You rest.
Samiyah gets out a stick of incense and lights it.
Samiyah lightly waves the incense around, letting the sacred smoke waft around her.

Samiyah gets a bit of salt from a small pouch and casts it around herself in a circle.
Samiyah meditates on prayers to the Three.

You gossip (in common), 'Does anyone know where the Temple of Nash can be found in the world?'.

The earth trembles beneath your feet!

You frown. What's bothering you?

Samiyah breaks her meditation, one hand pressed to the floor.

The earth trembles beneath your feet!

Samiyah bites her lip and sits back down, trying to return to her meditation.

Linkin gossips (in common), 'who’s asking about the temple of Nash'. Siobhan gossips (in common), 'Sam'.

Samiyah continues her meditation.

You gossip (in common), ‘I was, Linkin.'.

Linkin gossips (in common), 'it can be found in um that place on Molotov'.
Linkin gossips (in common), 'the place with the summoning chamber'.

You gossip (in common), 'The Black Manor?'.

Linkin gossips (in common), 'dark manor yes'.

Siobhan gossips (in common), 'that used to be quite the popular place'.

Linkin gossips (in common), ‘I believe it’s on the main floor to the north'.

You gossip (in common), 'Thank you. I will explore it.'.

Siobhan gossips (in common), 'man, those bastards used to throw some crazy labor day parties'. Siobhan gossips (in common), 'Gonna tell sam how to get in?'.

Linkin gossips (in common), 'watch out for the east side main floor there is a mean aggro mob that's in a no exit'. Linkin gossips (in common), 'why is it locked?'. Siobhan gossips (in common), 'it’s not locked anymore? Been years since I been there'.

Linkin gossips (in common), 'ya I haven't been there in a long time either'.

You gossip (in common), 'thank you for the warning!'.

Siobhan gossips (in common), 'cause I remember there was a chunk of lava that popped near a fissure I think that was a key'.

Linkin gossips (in common), 'that’s the key to the back door'.
Linkin gossips (in common), 'if the front is locked'.

Siobhan gossips (in common), 'that’s the ticket'.

You gossip (in common), 'Again my thanks!'.

Seeking Instruction

Seraph: cordir a moment?
Cordir: certainly
Cordir: come in.

Seraph appears before you.
Seraph nods in recognition to you.

You say, 'What can I do for you?'.

Seraph folds his hands behind his back.
Seraph says, 'well it seems you and your sister are displeased I can take and create souls. You ladies hold peoples threads in your hand every day'.

You say, 'You are not a topic I have discussed at any length with Katrana, but yes - if - and I say that again - if you are _destroying_ souls... that would be of grave concern.'.

Seraph says, 'destroying no'.

You raise your eyebrow.
You say, 'well then.'.

Seraph says, 'Reform, maybe, but never destroy.’.

You say, 'In what sense?'.

Seraph says, 'Well, if someone is sick, I change their soul and heal them'.

You say, 'as in "let's change this elven infant into a turtle instead"'.

Seraph says, 'no, but if the turtle was needed more than the child, then yes'.

You say, 'or "let’s take this Paladin and corrupt them to evil against their will"?'.

Seraph says, 'No, people make their own choices. I can just show them the other option'.

You say, ‘I am not entirely pleased as the weaving of Threads is My job'.

Seraph says, 'but if that paladin falls in battle and calls for his soul I can gather it'.

You say, 'but there is nothing that cannot be undone given enough time'.

Seraph says, ‘Maybe. Unless there is nothing left'.

Cordir smiles faintly, almost with a touch of irony.
You say, 'You remind me of a paladin I once knew, every now and then.'.

Seraph says, 'but I came to you today to ask you to teach me'.

You say, 'teach you what?'.
You raise your eyebrow.

Seraph says, 'to weave'.

Cordir's lips twitch as she attempts to hold back an expression.
You say, '..No. That has been My task for six thousand years and it will be until my Daughter is ready to take my mantle'.

Seraph says, ‘I do not wish to take over just learn'.

You smile happily.
You say, '..No. Your Thread speaks too clearly of what you would do with such power.'.

Seraph says, 'maybe it’s wrong. I choose. It has not been chosen yet for me'.

You say, ‘I See what you have done with power this far. That makes it easy to see the likely path you would take when given it again.'.

Seraph says, 'what have I done?'.

Cordir simply looks at you, the same odd expression on Her face.

Seraph says, ‘I have done nothing but offer choices'.

You say, 'We both know that is not true. You are one of the most manipulative souls I have come across.'.

Seraph says, ‘I have not harmed anyone in a long time'.

You say, 'Perhaps we have differing definitions of that word.'.

Seraph says, 'people can change'.

You say, 'They can, certainly. But when I look into you... I do not see one awakened from evil, bit simply wearing a new mask.'.

Seraph says, 'and when I look into you I see a soul twisted and torn'.

Cordir nods gravely.

Seraph says, 'if you can cut my thread any time then if I abuse your teaching cut my thread'.

You say, 'Aye. Live for seven thousand years and perhaps yours will be as ragged.'.

Seraph says, 'maybe'.

Cordir says dryly, "Seraph, we have already demonstrated that I can turn you into a 'bag of meat' as you put it. I have given you My answer. I will not teach you.'.

Seraph says, 'such a shame, Cordir'.

You say, 'was there some other issue that you wish to discuss?'.
You raise your eyebrow.

Seraph says, 'maybe you could have changed also with me, but if you enjoy being twisted and torn, then that’s is your choice'.

You say, 'Thank you for the thought, but no. I shall keep my tatters and twists and tears as they are. I have earned them. I would change none of the moments that have shaped me.'.

Seraph says, ‘I came to you to make myself different. Seems you like people as they are'.

You say, 'You came to me to ask me to teach you a great power which I refused. If you wish to evoke change in yourself then that comes from within yourself.'.

Seraph says, ‘I have a great power. It is truth I speak, but I have not used it in a long while'.

Cordir shrugs.

Seraph says, ‘I must admit I rather do enjoy your company'.

You say, ‘I am puzzled by such a declaration but cannot comment either way. '.

Seraph says, 'Well, seek me out if you just wish to talk, but I’m sure you won’t'.

You say, ‘I don’t generally speak to anyone'.
You say, 'save My bards.'.

Seraph says, 'yes I am also partial to a bard'.

You say, ‘I have little use for people. I find them irritating in general and their lives are so short it is hard to keep track of them.'.

Seraph says, 'people are wonderful. They can surprise you at any given moment'.

You say, 'Perhaps. But when you are as old as I am, very little can truly surprise you anymore.'.

Seraph says, 'seems Samiyah thread is being altered. Strange.’
Seraph turns and walks towards the shadows.

You say, 'The desert opal? Yes. I noted it. And I noted who tangled it as well.'.

Seraph stops and whispers, “Desert opal. Cute.”

You say, ‘I don’t recall names. I recall the color of the Thread.'.

Seraph says, 'once a bright blue with a tint of brown'.
Seraph says, 'now a little dimmer'. Seraph says, 'everything is her choice'.

You chuckle and say, 'a mouse in a maze that only has one actual path is convinced of their ability to choose, as well.'.

You say, 'And - Yes. I know it is changed. As I have said -- I also see how it happened.'.

Seraph walks towards the shadows : You remind me of Mystaya, Cordir.

You say, 'no need for insults.'.
You say, ‘I do not take kindly to them.'.

Seraph stops and turns around.
Seraph says, 'that was not an insult'.
Seraph says, ‘Mystaya was my wife'.

You say, 'Oh but it was.'.
You say, 'she was a shallow, vapid creature.'.
You say, 'Obsessed with her own image in the mirror and puddings of all things'.

Seraph says, 'torn and twisted'.

You smile happily.
You nod and say, ‘I am indeed.’.
You say, 'you may go now.'.
You make the gesture necessary to invoke your spell.
Seraph slowly fades out of existence.

A Sisterly Chat

Cordir says, 'Hello, Sister.'.

Katrana says, 'Greetings'.

Cordir asks, 'What can you tell me about this Seraph person? I haven't really been keeping track of him, but he's starting to become annoying.’.

Katrana says, 'I have not been able to catch him directly. But I have heard terrible things from Aoide and Samiyah.'.

Cordir says, 'He approached me today and asked that I teach him how to Weave the Threads. I refused, of course.. But was rather surprised at his audacity.'.

Katrana says, 'Yes, I'm irritated by why I hear. He took part of a soul from Samiyah, the desert Bardling. Her Thread Sister...'.
Katrana sighs heavily.
Katrana says, 'Things that toy with such things are abominations.'.

Cordir frowns. 'Such things cannot be taken. They must be given willingly. And when they are given freely... well.. it cannot be unwoven by Me. '.
Cordir says quietly, 'that is why I wove the spell I cast upon myself as I did. Willingly. Knowingly. That it could only be undone by the one that held the key.'.

Katrana nods.

Cordir says, 'But I read a bit into his intentions that does not please Me, and I do not like My Bards to be toyed with.
Cordir asks, 'Is she alone by choice?'.

Katrana nods and says, 'I feel he is manipulating her. Others toy with her as well. She reminds me of when I was changing...questioning her sanity.

Cordir smiles slightly.
Cordir says, 'I remember those days. When you were Becoming. they were not easy on you.'.

Katrana shakes her head.
Katrana says, 'No they were not. This bardling, I feel she wants...even needs someone or someones. Though I believe she does not know who to trust. Or is finding trust in those that should not have it.'.

Cordir says, 'it is hard, when you wish to Weave a certain outcome, but must allow for Choice.'.

Katrana nods slowly.

Cordir says, 'I cannot tamper in such things, Sister...and the only change you can evoke is the cutting of her Thread.'.

Katrana nods in thought.
Katrana says, 'I can hope that the words I've spoken to her allow her to realize the choices she has. But you are right, that the direct change is granting her a Rebirth.'.
Katrana says, 'The Outworld calls Sister...the Wyldlings go restless. I'll think about what you've said.'.

A Wandering Discussion

(After Samiyah has spent a long time wandering the Black Manor, left, and returned)

You gossip (in common), 'my Greetings to you, Sahib Boromir'.

Boromir gossips, 'greetings Samiyah :)'.

DarkClaw gossips, 'Hello, Sami.'.

You gossip (in common), 'Greetings, Sayyida'.
You gossip (in common), 'Do either of you know where the Temple of Nash can be found?'.

DarkClaw gossips, 'I only know where Nash can be found.'.

You gossip (in common), 'Where is that?'.

You gossip (in common), 'I was told the temple was in the Dark Manor, but I went there and could not find it.'.
You gossip (in common), 'Though there were some rooms I could not get into'.
You gossip (in common), 'I do not think Nash would live in a closet, or a boarded up room, or a prison cell, though..'.
You gossip (in common), '.. would he?'.

DarkClaw gossips, 'Perhaps you should take another look.'.

You gossip (in common), 'I will, Sayyida.'.

DarkClaw gossips, 'I don't know as though there is actually a temple. Hmmm.'.
DarkClaw gossips, 'Aside from Wish's.'.

Boromir gossips, 'there are rooms and artifacts of Nash ... a temple? hmm'.

DarkClaw gossips, 'If it is even in yet.'.

You gossip (in common), 'has his temple appeared yet?'.

The Coral Cave
[Exits: south]
Glittering white sand covers the floor of this room, curling in tiny swirls
across the room as if by some unseen current. The cave appears to have
naturally grown within the center of a massive coral formation, and you are
unable to detect any sign of intentional construction. The coral walls pulse
with life, as sea creatures dart in and out of tiny crevices, and colorful
coral fronds sway to and fro like leaves in the wind. Sunlight gently streams
into the room through cracks in the coral ceiling, bathing everything in an
eerie bluish cast. Some magical force must be at work here, since you appear to
be completely underwater, and yet able to breathe without difficulty. The
only exit is to the south, through a small carved out of the coral wall.
(Intense Dark Cyan Aura) Boromir is here.

Samiyah touches her hand to her forehead, her lips, and her heart in a tribal gesture of respect.

You gossip (in common), 'It has, it seems.'.

Boromir bows deeply.

DarkClaw gossips, 'I'm sure he is pleased, then!'.

You tell DarkClaw (in common), 'may I have your permission to enter?'.

DarkClaw tells you, 'Of course, Sami.'.

Temple of the Lost
[Exits: west]
A large eye hovers in mid-air here, emitting a soft, purple glow.
(Intense Dark Purple Aura) DarkClaw is here.

Samiyah touches her hand to her forehead, her lips, and her heart in a tribal gesture of respect.

You say (in common), 'I wanted to ask you about Ghazkull.'.
You say (in common), 'He and I spoke, recently.'.

DarkClaw smiles at you.

You say (in common), 'And I offered to help him, if you permitted it.'.
You say (in common), 'He would not accept my help without speaking to you first.'.

Boromir gossips, 'I believe you will find Nash artifacts and other items throughout the realm, Samiyah'.

DarkClaw blinks, clearly taken aback, "You...offered your own blood?"

You say (in common), 'Sayyida.. Vampires drink blood. Humans eat bread. Sahaugin's eat bugs. The Sahib drinks the essence of spirit.'.
You say (in common), 'All of these things are. '.
You say (in common), 'If I knew someone who was starving, I would give them bread.'.
You say (in common), 'I have given of my self to the Sahib.'.
You say (in common), 'Why would I think it too strange to give blood to someone who needed that?'.

DarkClaw drops her gaze briefly, then looks back to you. "It seems so simple when you put it that way."

You say (in common), 'It is a different kind of hunger, to be sure, but... each creature has that which it gains sustenance from.'.
You say (in common), 'Goats only eat grass, and I shouldn't think I would like that at all.'.

Samiyah shrugs philosophically.
You say (in common), 'It isn't like he can kill me..'.

You gossip (in common), 'Sahib Boromir, can you give any hints of these places?'.

DarkClaw hesitates, "Well...true. You are far stronger than he is. But vampiric strength is unpredictable."

Boromir gossips, 'you've already found one of them on your own ... '.
Boromir gossips, 'I'm not going to mess with success :)'.

You say (in common), 'Sayyida, would you permit him to harm me?'.
You say (in common), 'Truly harm?'.
Samiyah looks at you curiously, raising one eyebrow.

Boromir gossips, 'actually .. including wish's temple .. you've found 2 :)'.

DarkClaw says, 'Absolutely not...which is why I want to be there for his feeding.'.
DarkClaw says, 'He won't be himself.'.

You say (in common), 'Well, then. He is a fairly young little elf, and I don't think he can take too much...'.
You say (in common), 'If he does, I will sit on him until he stops wiggling.'.

DarkClaw laughs.
DarkClaw says, 'It will be rather difficult for him to stop.'.

Samiyah gestures with one of her heavily laden bags.

DarkClaw says, 'You might have to.'.

You say (in common), 'Well, I had not thought to let him chew or anything.'.
You say (in common), 'Simply drink from a goblet.'.

DarkClaw says, 'Ahh, then you should be pretty safe.'.

You say (in common), 'It seems the civilized way of doing it.'.

DarkClaw says, 'I will make sure of it, regardless.'.

Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.

You say (in common), 'Unless you would prefer it was one of Your own.'.

DarkClaw says, 'I was just surprised by your gesture, Sami. If it makes you uneasy, we can find another.'.

Samiyah's brow furrows as she frowns, looking troubled.
You say (in common), 'I would not have offered if I was not willing.'.
You say (in common), 'I did not wish to give further offense to the other members of the Lost'.
You say (in common), 'there is already enough offense between your beloved and I.'.

DarkClaw sighs heavily and nods her head. "There is. I hope to see it resolved...someday."

You say (in common), 'Ghazkull said that he did not feel as if his .. problem... was as important ... as the self-inflicted damage of That One.'.
You say (in common), 'and I will admit, Sayyida, that bothered me much to hear.'.

DarkClaw says, 'That is not true.'.

Samiyah says simply, "It is what he believes."

DarkClaw says, 'And I have not said or done anything that should've gave him that impression.'.

You say (in common), 'Yet, he has it.'.
You say (in common), 'I say it only that you may know it, Sayyida'.
You say (in common), 'not to chastise or criticize.'.

DarkClaw nods, "And I intend to make sure he feels differently."

You smile happily.
Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.
You say (in common), 'I knew that you would, did you know it.'.

DarkClaw says, 'Thank you for telling me, Sami. Ghaz is just as important as any of my others.'.

You say (in common), 'He seems quite nice.'.

DarkClaw says, 'He was pure, before I...'.

You say (in common), 'Before you saved his life the fastest way you knew how?'.

DarkClaw sighs and nods slowly. "Yes. Nothing can be done for it now."

You say (in common), 'Sometimes dark things come of good intent.'.
You say (in common), 'And some times, good things come of the dark.'.

DarkClaw says, 'True enough.'.
DarkClaw says, 'I am quite pleased you had some time to talk with him.'.

You say (in common), 'He was having, what he called, a quiet and lazy day.'.
You say (in common), 'So we chatted for a bit before I continued my explorations.'.

DarkClaw says, 'I can see you two becoming fast friends, if you both allow it.'.

You say (in common), 'Perhaps. I do not tend to be friends with those who are not female.'.
You say (in common), 'Over familiarity is halal.'.
Samiyah frowns.
You say (in common), 'er, Haraam. If Sahib Wish is to be believed.'.

DarkClaw frowns at what you did.
DarkClaw says, 'Even just as friends?'.

Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.
You say (in common), 'But I am still learning which of the Laws were of His will and which were lies'.

DarkClaw says, 'Such a shame. To think how much of life you might be missing out on.'.

You say (in common), 'and that may yet be another.'.

DarkClaw nods in recognition to you.
DarkClaw says, 'Were there so many lies?'.

You ponder the question.
You say (in common), 'the laws and codes..'.

Samiyah recites quietly, 'Unclean flesh has no place in the tribe - that which is unclean shall be cast out.'
Samiyah recites quietly, 'That which is sacred comes from the Three. All else is forbidden.'
Samiyah recites quietly, 'The duties of men are to defend and to speak. The duties of women to tend, and to be silent.'
Samiyah recites, 'The codes require modesty. Touch before vow is forbidden. That which is revealed is reviled.'

You say (in common), 'Sahib says that the second was a lie..'.
You say (in common), 'That the third was a lie..'.
You say (in common), 'He has not clarified the first and fourth'.

DarkClaw says, 'I cannot imagine going through life being silent.'.

You say (in common), 'it is the way of my people.'.

DarkClaw says, 'But not law, according to your Sahib.'.

You say (in common), 'Sahib said that law was, 'Those with the spirit shall lead' - that it does not matter, man or woman'.
You say (in common), 'and says that I have that spirit'.
You say (in common), 'And that I should not have been silent...'.
You say (in common), 'and had I stayed, I would have been, forever..'.

DarkClaw says, 'Then it is a good thing you did not, though I mean no disrespect in saying so.'.

Samiyah says in a small voice, 'I am not very good at his first law: "Show no weakness."'

You say (in common), 'Sayyida... do I strike you as one who is losing their mind?'.
You say (in common), 'Sahib Wish says that I am.'.

DarkClaw narrows her gaze slightly and folds her arms over her chest, leaning against the altar. "Why would he say such a thing?"

You say (in common), 'He said that my quest to seek out those artifacts that belonged to Se.. Sahib.. that they each damage me further'.

You say (in common), 'And that my mind will break, if I should touch Similus.'.

DarkClaw furrows her brow, "I don't believe you are yet losing your mind, no. But I know nothing of Seraph's artifacts. Perhaps Wish speaks true."

Samiyah admits, "Some very strange things have ... seemed.. to be going on lately, but others saw some of them as well, so..."

DarkClaw says, 'Then you can't think you are losing your mind because of those occurrences.'.

Samiyah nods, saying uncertainly, 'He said it quite forcefully. As if he spoke the sole truth.'

DarkClaw says, 'Then I would dare to say it either IS the truth...or Wish believes completely that it is.'.
DarkClaw says, 'I cannot think what use he would have for swaying you from doing so if it were not true.'.

You say (in common), 'I do not wish to become broken in my mind, but I do want to fully understand the Sahib.'.

DarkClaw says, 'Is there no other way to fully understand Seraph?'.

You say (in common), 'I do not know. But He said that was one way. It is the only way He has described... but warned me repeatedly it was perilous.'.

DarkClaw says, 'Seraph warned you as well?'.

Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.

You say (in common), 'He said that Similus would show me only death... but that is what the other items showed as well.'.

You say (in common), '..I saw your death, Sayyida.'.
You say (in common), 'in an Arena.'.
You say (in common), 'His shield knows the taste of your blood.'.

DarkClaw says, 'It cannot know the taste of something it has never tasted.'.
DarkClaw says, 'Unless...'.
DarkClaw says, 'Unless it was when I was mortal.'.

Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.

You say (in common), 'Ancient days.'.

DarkClaw says, 'Ahh, the Gods saw to it that I lived again and again, after dying numerous times.'.
DarkClaw chuckles, evidently amused.
DarkClaw says, 'I'm not sure what I did to win their favor.'.

Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.

DarkClaw says, 'But, Sami...if your Sahib said it is perilous, you should heed his warning.'.
DarkClaw says, 'He would know, above all others.'.

You say (in common), 'The Sahib has said that each time I fall, that He cups my soul in His hands, that it not pass on to the spirit lands.'.
You smile happily.

DarkClaw says softly, "What happens if one of those times he is unable to save you?"

Samiyah answers simply, 'Then I will perish.'
You say (in common), 'But I trust in Him. '.

DarkClaw says, 'I know this may sound strange, coming from me...'.

Samiyah listens.

DarkClaw says, 'But, as your God, you should. But even Immortals aren't perfect. The higher Gods know I'm not even close.'.
DarkClaw sighs in frustration, "I'm sure I'm not making sense."

You say (in common), 'You are, Sayyida.'.

You say (in common), 'You shared a .. a secret.. with me once.'.
You say (in common), 'May I share one in return?'.

DarkClaw says, 'Of course.'.

Samiyah says softly, 'I am going to unveil before Him.'

DarkClaw blinks at what you said, seemingly stunned.
DarkClaw says, 'I should not think that wrong to unveil to your God. Is it?'.

You say (in common), 'Well, I had thought it so - for women must veil at all times but most especially in the Holies'.
You say (in common), 'those places that are sacred'.
You say (in common), 'So.. I always thought, the veil was that more important in His presence, to show respect.'.
You say (in common), 'But I have come to think that He does not find it pleasing.'.

Samiyah adds softly, 'And Wish mocked me for it, saying I was a stupid desert girl hiding behind my beads and no one cared about.'
Samiyah fingers the hem of her veil.

DarkClaw scowls, "Wish should NOT have uttered those words. He knows nothing of your ways."
DarkClaw says, 'Pay no heed.'.

You say (in common), 'He said the tribe's ways were of shame, founded in shame, teaching shame..'.
You say (in common), 'and, if I think on it, I cannot entirely disagree, but... I think the veil has purpose as well.'.

DarkClaw says, 'Even if they were, it was not his place to say such a thing.'.

You say (in common), 'I have been thinking on it a great deal.'.
You say (in common), 'I do not think I like the idea of strangers and enemies looking upon my face.'.
You say (in common), 'But I think.. for those that I trust...'.
You say (in common), 'well. I am still thinking on it.'.
You say (in common), 'But for Him... I think I will do this thing.'.

DarkClaw nods thoughtfully. "I was just thinking that...perhaps the modesty is for those you don't know or trust."

You say (in common), 'Yes, Sayyida!'.

You smile happily.

DarkClaw says, 'And, if that is the case, then your Sahib should not find fault with you unveiling yourself to him alone.'.
DarkClaw says, 'But...that is not my call.'.

Samiyah smiles tremulously. 'I hope not. I hope that i have divined His wishes... though, as always, He says it is my choice.'
You say (in common), 'I do wish to please Him and obey His laws.'.

DarkClaw smiles at you.
DarkClaw says, 'I cannot imagine you NOT pleasing someone, but I am biased.'.

You sigh.
You say (in common), 'It's just the show no fear and have courage part that I need to work on much harder.'.

DarkClaw says, 'How can you have courage without fear?'.
DarkClaw says, 'You have to have both.'.

You say (in common), 'Forgive me. The words are, "Show no weakness."'.
You say (in common), 'I am a bard and I tend to add words.'.
Samiyah blushes, ducking her head and concealing her face in one of the layers of her veil.

DarkClaw grins evilly at you.
DarkClaw says, 'Seraph is intelligent, of course, in telling you that.'.

You say (in common), 'To show no weakness?'.

DarkClaw says, 'If you show no weakness, then others cannot figure out what your weakness is and use it against you.'.

Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.

DarkClaw says, 'Or at least not as easily.'.

You say (in common), 'Sayyida...'.
You say (in common), 'may I be so bold as to thank you for something?'.

DarkClaw says, 'If you think you must, though I haven't done anything that needs thanking.'.

You say (in common), 'Thank you for using His name, and not calling him the Fallen One. While I do not use His name... I appreciate that you do, now.'.

DarkClaw glances down for a moment, then back up again. "I have been making a conscious effort, though I still sometimes slip."

You smile happily.
You say (in common), 'It is noticed and appreciated, Sayyida.'.
Samiyah makes a gesture of thanks, bowing slightly over her clasped, henna-dyed hands.

DarkClaw says, 'It is the least I can do, given how wrong I was about him and the wrongness Belgarion has done to you.'.

You say (in common), 'I am still very angry with your love, and he, with me..'.
You say (in common), 'Though You have said that you do not blame me for whatever it was he wished to do'.
You say (in common), 'I know that I should relent and not be angry but I have never felt so hurt by one that I trusted.'.

DarkClaw says, 'I know. All I can do is hope that someday you two both move past it all.'.

DarkClaw says, 'He...angered me when he tried casting that spell after I told him not to.'.
DarkClaw says, 'But I understand his reasons. So, for me, it's hard to STAY mad at him.'.

Samiyah bows her head, condemnation in her eyes for such a deed against the words of the gods.
Samiyah clasps her hands and purses her lips tightly, so as not to speak ill.
Samiyah nods slightly in acknowledgement of your words.

You say (in common), 'I have taken too much of your time and attention this evening, Sayyida..'.
You say (in common), 'I do thank you for it.'.
Samiyah touches her hand to her forehead, her lips, and her heart in a tribal gesture of respect.

DarkClaw says, 'One thing, Sami.'.
DarkClaw says, 'Before you go.'.

You say (in common), 'Yes, Sayyida?'.

DarkClaw says, 'You never have to worry about me lashing out at you for speaking your mind. You are entitled to what you feel, no matter what.'.
DarkClaw says, 'Even in regards to Belgarion.'.
DarkClaw smiles at you.

Samiyah considers a moment, then says quietly, 'IT is not right to speak harshly of those beloved by another. It hurts me when others do it. I try not to.'

Samiyah mutters something softly, the words muffled by her veil, but you make out 'Wish' and "NOT" and "houseplant"
DarkClaw stifles a chuckle. "As you wish, Sami. Have a good evening."

You smile happily.
Samiyah lays a hand across her chest, modestly lowers her eyes, and curtseys.

Fare thee well!

02/19/2013

Wish's Quest, Continued

The Pit
[ Exits: east up ]
A grand staircase leads to the temples above.
A pit for donations dominates the room.
( Light Red Aura ) Shilea is here.

You smile at her.
You say (in common), 'hello Shilea!'.

Shilea smiles at you.

Wish has granted you the ability to see him when he is invis.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'You have begun your quest already? Seraph told me he would not approve unless I had the Similus in my personal possession, which I do not'.

You tell Wish (in common), 'He also told me that He felt your word was good and that I should begin...'.
You tell Wish (in common), 'So I have spent a great deal of time in the black manor and catalogued (wiki) what I learned.'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'Nod...my word is good. But as he noted there are things out of my control...such as Teva dying and losing it'.
Wish [GS] tells you, 'however, if that happens I will provide what compensation I can'.

You tell Wish (in common), 'All that I seek is knowledge of Similus.'.
You tell Wish (in common), 'No other compensation would be needed if it is lost.'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'Why are you so intent on this knowledge? I am curious to know.'.

You tell Wish (in common), ‘I do not wish to answer if I am not required to, Sahib.'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'you are not required to'.

You tell Wish (in common), '*bow*'.

Wish [GS] tells you, ‘I do not command mortals like play things you know.'.

You tell Wish (in common), 'Can you tell me if the temple of Nash is in the manor?'.

You say (in common), 'Do you know the Black Manor well?'.

Shilea nods.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'as for the Temple of Nash...if you seek a temple such as that in the Temple Area, none shall be found'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'Some would say the entire Manor is the Lord's temple'.
Wish [GS] tells you, 'whilst others might say the island itself is his temple'.
Wish [GS] tells you, 'for myself, I make no such restrictions. The entire realm is the temple of Nash in my eyes'.

You tell Wish (in common), 'Hmm. I have heard of a single chamber hidden away.'.
You tell Wish (in common), ‘I will search the manor more carefully.'.

Wish [GS] tells you, '(ooc - I dont think I am allowed to tell you)'.

You say (in common), ‘I am on a quest an need to enter every room...'.

Shilea nods.
Shilea says (in common), 'How can I help?'.

You tell Wish (in common), '((ooc - you can confirm or deny its existence as it been around for years)'.

You say (in common), ‘I have been told by Linkin it is very perilous'.
You say (in common), 'Do you think perhaps you and Aoide might accompany me?'.
You say (in common), 'some evening, perhaps?'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'Samiyah, there is a special room in the Manor'.
Wish [GS] tells you, 'it is not easily accessed'.

You tell Wish (in common), '(ooc oh you mean man!! :p )'.

You tell Wish (in common), 'Linkin warned me of grave danger... I will find a way.'.
Wish [GS] tells you, ‘I am sure you will.'.

Shilea says (in common), 'sure'.

You smile happily.
You say (in common), 'That would be wonderful'.
You say (in common), 'Is the Temple of Nash there as well?'.

You tell Wish (in common), ‘I have the Bible, Poem and Apok... er.. I do not know how to say the word, Sahib, but I have read them.'.

Shilea says (in common), ‘I think so'.
Shilea says (in common), 'That whole place reeks of nash'.
Shilea shudders from the sheer thought of it.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'that is very good...Samiyah. Are you sure you wish to seek out the room you spoke of?'.

You say (in common), ‘I wandered it extensively last night'.
You say (in common), 'The earthquakes were getting too bad to stay'.
You say (in common), 'So I missed some locked rooms'.

Shilea nods in recognition to you.

Shilea says (in common), 'where did you get this quest?'.

You say (in common), 'From Sahib Wish and Sahib Seraph'.

You tell Wish (in common), ‘I wish to complete the task I have been given.'.

Shilea sits down and thinks deeply.
Shilea says (in common), 'What is the end result of this quest?'.

You say (in common), ‘I will gain knowledge of a thing I am seeking.'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'Well, then seek this room you must, if you believe it will complete your knowledge. There is danger there...but I believe not more than you can handle.'.

Shilea says (in common), 'What do you seek?'.

You say (in common), 'Similus.'.

You tell Wish (in common), ‘I will go.'.

Shilea says (in common), 'Ahha'.
Shilea shows her approval by clapping her hands together.

You say (in common), 'Not to keep.'.
You say (in common), 'Just to examine.'.
You say (in common), 'Ink would yell at me if I wielded a weapon'.

You shiver. Brrrrrrrrr.

You say (in common), 'Oh! I am almost to my gold goal!'.
You say (in common), 'Though some mischief with my marks stopped me early the last time'.

Shilea grins evilly.
Shilea snickers softly.

Repudiated

Grand Enterance:
You stand in an ivory and ebony colored marble room. The hushed tones of the room give a sense of what is to come. You see a plaque hanging in mid-air.

Look Plaque;
You see an ornate plaque floating in mid-air.
Directions
Temples - East and Up
Adventurers Guild - Down and East
All are welcome in the temple area. Please feel free to visit all the temples and get a feel for the gods and goddesses before you commit your life to them.

Someone steps out if the shadows.

You bow deeply.

Someone says, 'hello samiyah'.

You say (in common), 'Hello, Sahib'.

Someone says, 'how goes your journey?'.

You say (in common), ‘I have begun the quest as we discussed...'.

Someone nods.

You say (in common), ‘I spent quite some time exploring the Dark Manor'.
You say (in common), 'though there were doors I could not unlock'.

Someone raises his hand and a throne of bones rises from the floor.

You say (in common), 'So I will be going back again'.

Someone rests on the throne.
Someone nods.

Samiyah shivers at the throne's creation but stands her ground.

Someone says, 'it seems many people are watching over you'.

You say (in common), 'Mortals, Sahib? Or high ones?'.

Someone says, 'all'.

You say (in common), 'It is good to have friends .. even if they are not Tribe.'.

Someone says, 'it seems they think I am corrupting you with my ways'.

You say (in common), 'People have been warning me against you since first we met, Sahib.'.
You say (in common), 'This is nothing new.'.

Someone nods.
Someone says, ‘I know'.

You say (in common), ‘I do not pay it heed.'.

Someone sits down and thinks deeply.
Someone says, 'but you do'.

You blink.
You say (in common), 'How so, Sahib? In what way have I done so?'.

Someone says, 'you ask for their advice, seek then knowledge'.
Someone says, 'which is fine'.
Someone says, 'knowledge is power'.

You say (in common), 'Asking advice is not blindly obeying - it is learning other viewpoints.'.

Someone says, 'it also seems people are angry I have part of your soul'.

Samiyah says quietly, "They are. But it is none of their concern. I gave it willingly."
You say (in common), ‘I wanted to help. I would make the same choice again, if it were before me.'.

Someone says, 'but they are your friends'.
Someone says, 'they have the best interest'.

You say (in common), 'Sometimes friends do not agree.'.

Someone says, 'sometimes they see what others don’t'.

You say (in common), ‘I know the spark of my spirit is in your keeping and it is safe.'.

Someone says, 'your thread has been changed'.

You say (in common), 'So the Sayyida Katrana said - but that only makes sense as part of it is in Your keeping.'.

Someone says, 'that bothers Cordir and Katrana'.

You say (in common), 'It was my choice. Not theirs.'.

Someone says, 'and who do they blame?'.
Someone says, 'they call me… hmm... what is it now'.
Someone says, 'what do they call me?'.

Samiyah bows her head. "I am sorry to hear they, like Sahib Wish, have spoken ill of you... if they have done so."

Someone leans forward and whispers: what do they call me?

Samiyah whispers, "Abomination, Sahib."

Someone leans back: “ahh, that’s right.”

You say (in common), 'Though of the Sayyida Cordir, I do not know. We have not spoken.'.

Someone says, 'a weak false god that has no powers'.
Someone says, 'she has no place for me in her weave'.

You say (in common), 'But I stood up to Sayyida Katrana and told her you were not!'.

Someone says, 'am I not'.

You say (in common), 'No, Sahib, You are not.'.

Someone says, 'they say I am sly, manipulative and corrupt what I touch'.

You say (in common), 'You have always been encouraging of me, to grow and think and choose and I do not see how that could be corrupt'.

Someone says, 'to them it is'.

Someone says, 'a god with no power'.
Someone says, 'even Belgarion and your dear bother have said that'.

You say (in common), 'Belgarion's opinion means nothing to me.'.

Someone says, 'but your brother does'.

You say (in common), 'Cresom sees only pain and fear bit not the lessons both teach'.
You say (in common), ‘I am steadfast, Sahib.'.

Someone says, 'yet Cresom follows a good god and aids evils willing'.
Someone says, 'and I am casting a false shadow'.
Someone throws back his head and cackles with insane glee!

Samiyah fidgets with the end of her veil, then says, "His actions are his own and not mine to judge - as mine are not his to judge."

Someone says, 'but he is your brother'.
Someone says, 'and he looks down on me'.

Samiyah catches herself fiddling with her veil, and stops.

Someone says, 'no one speaks ill of him'.

You say (in common), ‘I will not tolerate disrespect of you or any Immortal - from my brother or any other in my presence.'.

Someone says, 'maybe it’s time you sought your own path'.
Someone says, 'for if you stay with me these friends will not leave it be'.

Samiyah looks shocked, going pale above the dark fabric of her veil.

Someone says, ‘I am sure DarkClaw or Katrana will take you with arms wide open'.

You say (in common), ‘I have not offered prayers to them since I was a child.'.

Someone stands up his throne crumbles to dust.
Someone’s wings fold about his body.
Someone says, 'you have no use for a powerless god'.

Samiyah says quietly, "My songs did not awaken them."
Samiyah says quietly, "They do not keep my soul from the spirit world."

Someone says, 'open your hands'.

Samiyah does so, her hands shaking and quite unwilling.
Samiyah begs, "please .. Sahib.. do not.."

Someone pulls your soul from the air and places it into your hands.
Someone says, 'give it to some powerful god'.

You say (in common), 'Did I not have that choice since I left the desert, Sahib?'.

Someone tears off his helm and armor and causes it to turn to dust.

You say (in common), ‘I did not walk that path because it was forbidden and it was not right for me.'.

Someone walks towards the shadows not paying attention.

You say (in common), 'What are ...'.
Samiyah falls silent, knowing herself ignored.

Someone whispers: “Good bye, dear one.” He steps into the shadows.

Samiyah kneels to the ground, burying her face in her hands.
Samiyah shudders, then sits up and begins unwinding her veil.
Samiyah unpins the many ornaments.
Samiyah takes a deep breath and bares her face, sliding her veil from her head and shoulders.

You stop using an ornamented black linen headdress and veil.

Samiyah looks in the direction You departed, looking lost and alone.

Samiyah prays softly, in the desert tongue.
Samiyah prays, "Sahib, why would You do this thing..?"
Samiyah prays, "I do not understand.."
Samiyah prays, "I do not want You to weaken as You did before, Sahib.."

Tears run down her bare face as she continues her prayers.

The Power of Prayer

(SNIPPED: Two and a half, nearly three hours’ worth of praying emotes – not going to subject ya’ll to that... just some.)

Dimwit arrives from below.
Dimwit leaves down.

Samiyah continues her prayers to the Three.

Ghazkull arrives from below.
Ghazkull leaves east.

The plaque hanging in mid-air begins to glow.

Dimwit arrives from below.
Dimwit leaves down.

Samiyah murmurs in the desert tongue, "I will have faith, Sahib."
Samiyah lights a stick of incense and continues her prayers.

Samiyah's lips move silently.

Samiyah continues to pray.

Zarathos arrives from the east.
Zarathos leaves down.

Samiyah's lips move in silence, eyes closed.

Ghazkull arrives from the east.
Ghazkull leaves down.

Samiyah whispers yet another prayer.

Sycora arrives from below.
Sycora leaves east.
Sycora arrives from the east.
Sycora curtseys gracefully for you.
Sycora looks at you.

Zarathos arrives from below.
Zarathos leaves east.

Sycora says (in elven), 'hi'.
Sycora leaves down.

Samiyah kneels silently, continuing her prayers.

Zarathos arrives from the east.
Zarathos leaves down.

Samiyah ends one prayer and begins another.

Samiyah's lips move silently.

Zarathos arrives from below.
Zarathos leaves east.

Samiyah ends one prayer and begins another.

Samiyah continues on urgently, eyes closed, lips moving silently.

Zarathos arrives from below.
Zarathos leaves east.

Samiyah prays unceasingly, silently.

Zarathos arrives from the east.
Zarathos leaves down.

Samiyah ends a prayer, takes a breath, and begins another.

(NOTE: Part of an immortal conversation between Seraph and DarkClaw occurred here, but the log wasn't captured. In summary, DarkClaw discussed her intention of checking on Samiyah, and then realized that Seraph was present, unseen, in the room. He indicated she should speak to the bard, as he would not. How long he had stood watching her pray is unknown, but he leaves when DarkClaw appears. Additional communication is on Immtalk)

Samiyah continues her silent entreaties.

DarkClaw enters the room, her gaze immediately landing on Samiyah and her distraught form.
DarkClaw says softly, "Sami?"

Samiyah continues her silent entreaties.

DarkClaw frowns, not wanting to interrupt prayers, but struggling with the need to aid. "Samiyah."

Samiyah finishes one prayer and begins another.

DarkClaw moves closer to Sami and kneels down beside her, her eyes raking over her features. "Sami, I'm sorry to interrupt, but you are clearly distraught. What is it?"'.

Seraph: order her to speak. see if that works

Samiyah takes a breath, her lips moving in silence.

DarkClaw tentatively reaches a hand out to touch Sami's arm, her voice becoming a bit more stern. "Samiyah, speak to me."

Samiyah continues to pray, tears sliding unheeded down her face. "Sahib, please do not go, please do not do this, I beg of You.."

Samiyah prays aloud, "I have done all that You asked, learned that which You wished to teach.."

Seraph: did it work?

DarkClaw frowns and pulls her hand back, seemingly unsure of what to do.

DarkClaw: She is under the impression that you are...leaving.

Samiyah falls into silent prayer once more, lips moving mutely.

Seraph: I have left

DarkClaw says, 'Sami, tell me what you mean. Where is Seraph going?'.

Samiyah takes a single breath, and continues her prayers.

DarkClaw: You may have left the room, but you are STILL here, and you choose not to answer her call.

Samiyah continues her prayers, unmoving.

Seraph: I will not answer her.
Seraph: people always say I control her - well, now she is free.

DarkClaw: *growls* And here I thought I was wrong about you. That's the coward's way out, Seraph. Who are you to care what others think?

Seraph: I do not care what others think of me

DarkClaw: *softer* I thought Samiyah meant something to you.

Seraph: but she shouldn't carry my burdens
Seraph: if she didn't matter, I would still walk with her

DarkClaw: Yet you are giving her something far worse to contend with. To love someone, or befriend someone, is to accept those burdens.

DarkClaw growls to herself, then murmurs, "He has not forgotten you, Sami. He is merely...stubborn."

Seraph: love and friendship - that is not what she feels for me

DarkClaw: Regardless of what she feels, or how you classify it, you are only replacing one kind of burden with another...loss.

Seraph: fine. I will get her to speak

Samiyah catches her breath and begins another prayer.

Someone steps out of the shadows, his wings folded about his body.

DarkClaw lowers herself to sit upon the ground, closing her eyes for a brief moment as she soaks in the energy of the Earth.

Samiyah continues her silent prayer, eyes closed, ignoring all around her.

Someone hisses: Stand up, Samiyah !

Samiyah's eyes spring open, and she staggers clumsily to her feet, knees nearly buckling from having knelt so long.

DarkClaw reaches out with a hand to steady Samiyah.

Samiyah leans slightly away, withdrawing from the offered help.

Someone says, 'what are you doing Samiyah?'.

Samiyah whispers, her voice hoarse from tears, "Praying, Sahib"

Someone says, 'why'.

You say (in common), 'Because I do not want You to go. '.
You say (in common), 'And I fear You will fade and sleep once more'.

Zarathos rests.

Someone says, 'so you kneel here showing everyone weakness'.

You say (in common), ‘I was not paying any heed or notice to others, Sahib. I was focusing on my prayers.'.
You say (in common), 'Prayers are not weakness.'.

Someone wipes a tear from your cheek.
Someone says, 'and what is this then?'.

Ghazkull arrives from below.
Ghazkull smiles happily.

DarkClaw rolls her eyes at Seraph's words and stands quietly, gathering her pets around her and taking her leave.

Ghazkull leaves east.

Samiyah sways forward, a slight gasp at the touch. "Tears, Sahib"

Someone says, 'weakness'.

You say (in common), 'Then, Yes, Sahib. I am weak. '.

Someone hand goes to the hilt of his sword.

Samiyah drops back down to her knees, head bowed, braids falling around her face.

Someone pulls out his sword.

Ghazkull arrives from the east.

Someone raises the sword over his head.

Samiyah remains on her knees, head bowed, waiting.

Ghazkull gasps in astonishment.

Ghazkull tells you (in elven), 'would you like me to leave?'.
You tell Ghazkull (in common), 'up to you :)'.

Someone drives it into the floor stopping halfway up the blade.
Someone snaps the blade into two pieces.

Samiyah stays in place, staring at the floor.

Ghazkull surveys the scene, unsure what to make of the situation, 'Samiyah, are you okay?'

Someone says, 'everything has a weakness'.

Ghazkull growls lightly.

Samiyah murmurs, "Yes, Sahib," her full attention on Him.

Someone says, 'we just don't show it'.

Samiyah asks, barely above a whisper, "Am I a weakness to you or a strength, Sahib?"

Someone says, ‘I am your weakness'.

Someone holds out his hand towards Samiyah.

You say (in common), 'Forgive me, Sahib, but no.. You are not.. a weakness. You are a lesson. You are the structure of my world. You are the gods I have prayed to since childhood.'.

Someone says, 'taught false rules by a tribe who twisted my words'.

Samiyah says with despair in her voice, "What then shall I do, Sahib"

Someone says, 'whatever you choose to do'.

You say (in common), 'If You tell me that I am too weak then I will know myself so .. '.
You say (in common), 'If I am unworthy, so be it - say it plainly!'.
You say (in common), 'but do not go because of the words of others!'.

Someone says, 'you have more strength than any person I know'.

Samiyah whispers, "Then why would You reject my gift and leave me?"
Samiyah remains still, head bowed, kneeling at Your feet.

Someone pulls his blade out of the floor and runs his hand down it, repairing it.
Someone then kneels with Samiyah, his wings wrapping around her.

Samiyah lays her forehead against Your shoulder, trembling. "Do not leave me, Sa.. Seraph.. I beg you."

Someone whispers into Samiyah’s ear.
Someone speaks in her tribal tongue: People doubt you because of me.
Someone speaks in her tribal tongue: If you walk without me, they will stop doubting.

Samiyah answers in the same language, "They are not my tribe... You are."
Samiyah answers, "I do not judge them for those they walk with."

Someone whispers: You were brought up to believe in me. You need to believe for your own reasons.
Someone whispers: Not because the tribe said to.

Samiyah struggles to explain. "One grew naturally from the other.. changing as I have come to know the truth of You.."

Someone pulls you closer.
Someone whispers: Finish Wish’s quest. Seek the other gods and after that… if I am the one you still believe into then I will walk with you.

Samiyah says firmly, "Only a direct command could make it otherwise, Sahib."
You say (in common), 'And that would not be by my wish or will!'.

Someone stands up, holding out his hand towards you.

You say (in common), ‘I had given you part of my spirit - without it.. will you be all right?'.

Someone nods in recognition to you.

Samiyah lays her small hand in Seraph's stronger, larger one.

Someone gently pulls you to your feet and pulls you in. His wings wrap around you.

Samiyah sighs quietly, shaking, leaning against you for support.

Someone whispers: Learn of the gods and do not follow, even if ordered.

Samiyah answers, "I hear and will obey."

Someone whispers: You follow because you want to, because you believe.
Someone kisses you on the forehead gently.

You say (in common), 'With Your words, I can refuse them.'.
You say (in common), ‘I will do all that You have commanded.'.

Someone's wings open up and he turns, walking towards the shadows.

Someone says, 'it’s not a command but a suggestion, dear one'.

Samiyah closes her eyes. "Thank You for hearing my prayers."

Seraph has granted you the ability to see him when he is invis.

Seraph nods in recognition to you.

Seraph has removed your ability to see him when he is invis.

Someone steps into the shadows.

Samiyah sits down abruptly, utterly exhausted and wrung out.

Grand Entrance
[Exits: east down]
You stand in an ivory and ebony colored marble room. The hushed tones of the room give a sense of what is to come. You see a plaque hanging in mid-air.
(Dark Purple Aura) Ghazkull is here.
(Intense Dark Purple Aura) DarkClaw is here.

Ghazkull stoops and picks up Samiyah's veil, silently handing it to her.

Samiyah takes it, looks at it, blinks, one hand flying up to her bare cheek, and blushes.
Samiyah murmurs, "Thank you."
Samiyah looks at the length of linen, but does not put it back on.

Ghazkull says (in elven), 'are you okay, Samiyah?'.

Samiyah ventures quietly, "better."
You say (in common), 'Please convey my apologies to your Sayyida - I did not dare to stop'.

Ghazkull closes his eyes, briefly communing with DarkClaw.
Ghazkull nods at himself; he must be getting senile.
Ghazkull opens his eyes once more, 'DarkClaw says you have no reason to apologize. She only ever wanted your happiness and well-being'

Samiyah breaks into a genuine if exhausted smile and nods.

Ghazkull says (in elven), 'do you require anything more Samiyah?'.

You say (in common), 'thank you but no. when I regain my strength I must resume my quest.'.

Ghazkull nods.
Ghazkull says (in elven), 'in that case, if I can be of any aid in the future, I will do my best to help?'.
Ghazkull smiles at you.

Samiyah says gravely, "I travel to the Dark Manor."

Ghazkull gasps in astonishment.

You say (in common), 'Its rigors are beyond your strength'.

Ghazkull nods.
Ghazkull says (in elven), ‘I am aware of the place'.

You say (in common), 'But blessings upon you for the offering'.

Ghazkull nods in recognition to you.
Ghazkull waves goodbye to you. Have a good journey.

The Quest, Continued

Samiyah glances down at her bruised knees, rubbing them lightly.

You tell Nero (in common), 'Do you have a moment?'.

Nero tells you (in common), 'i will in a just a few mins but i need AFK for a couple seconds'.

You tell Nero (in common), 'At your convenience. I thank you.'.

Nero tells you (in common), 'ok back'.

You tell Nero (in common), 'I was wondering if you could tell me what you know of Nash'.
You tell Nero (in common), 'I am on a quest, given to me by your Sahib Wish'.

Nero tells you (in common), 'i don't know a ton.......i know the 3 laws that Pope Isolas made us know'.

You tell Nero (in common), 'Three laws? Do you know what they are?'.

Nero ftells, 'the 3 laws that isolas made use know where......praise him.....never harm another nash....whats the other one i am missing'.

Wish ftells, 'there is no third law'.

Wish ftells, 'there WAS a third law a long time ago'.

Nero ftells, 'just them 2?'.

Wish ftells, 'thats right'.
Wish ftells, 'this is 100% accurate'.
Wish ftells, 'doubly verified'.

Wish ftells, 'the third law was one Gryphon had'.
Wish ftells, 'which essentially was something like "Try to be as perfect as you can in what you are"'.

Nero ftells, 'ah'.

Wish ftells, 'thats a summary'.

Wish ftells, 'The Arch Lich, while Pope removed that law'.

(Some Auctions snipped, that Shilea and Samiyah both bid on, not realizing the other was bidding, and Belgarion (sneaky bastard) won! Shilea (Extra sneaky bastard) then stole the item Belgarion had been wearing, and gifted it to Sami!)

Nero tells you (in common), 'i was wrong - only two'
Nero tells you (in common), 'praise nash and no harming other nashites'

You tell Nero (in common), 'Thank you!'

You gossip (in common), 'Seeking intrepid and brave adventurers to travel to dangerous places with me.'.
You gossip (in common), 'I am on a quest.'.

Mish auctions, 'Belgarion won the auction for the Crest of the Dragon Riders! BID CLAIM to claim it.'.
Mish gives the Crest of the Dragon Riders to Belgarion.

Samiyah whispers a desert curse under her breath, involving someone's sleeping blankets and the fleas of ten thousand camels.

You gossip (in common), 'No takers?'.

You make the gesture necessary to invoke your spell.

Opening a portal to West Side of the Courtyard.
West Side of the Courtyard
[Exits: north east south west]
The sky is rainy and a warm southerly breeze blows.
The guard walks his post intently looking for trouble.

(Sami wanders around the Dark Manor, looking at tapestries and portraits and keys to locked doors.)

Wish has granted you the ability to see him when he is invis.

l portrait
A large black Aarakocra with glowing eyes and huge wings slays a young
Arch-Mage in cold blood.

Wish ftells, 'Teva - i need you to show your weapon to samiyah'.
Wish ftells, 'but not yet'.
Wish ftells, 'or, let me have it for a while'.
Wish ftells, 'which would be even better'.


Teva ftells, 'um its ND'.
Teva ftells, 'so she can't see it'.

Wish ftells, 'you just have to RP it'.
Wish ftells, 'dont actually hand it to her'.
Wish ftells, 'just do an emote or something...let her touch it'.
Wish ftells, 'but wait...she may not be ready'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'have you completed your quest? '.

You tell Wish (in common), '*quietly, in a subdued tone* I have not learned all. But I have learned much.'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'Well, I suppose it is enough'.
Wish [GS] tells you, '...and the opportunity has arisen for you to touch the Similus'.
Wish [GS] tells you, 'I think to deny you further would be...cruel'.

You tell Wish (in common), 'Your followers have described two laws, and I have read the bible, apock... and poem.'.

> c portal well
You make the gesture necessary to invoke your spell.

Opening a portal to a well.
Market Square
[Exits: north east south west up]
The sky is rainy and a warm southerly breeze blows.
A deep well is here in the center of the square.
(Light Red Aura) (White Aura) Slue, cousin of Smee and Blogg, is polishing his blade.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'there is always more to learn. I am satisfied you have made an attempt to learn all you could.'.

You tell Wish (in common), 'I would welcome the opportunity, if you feel it completed.'.

Wish [GS] tells you, 'if you wish to touch the Similus please come to my temple.'.

Wish ftells, 'please stay in my temple for a bit'.
Wish ftells, 'Samiyah probably be here soon'.

Teva ftells, 'no reason to leave'.

Wish tells Seraph, 'I am going to have Teva show Samiyah the weapon'.
Seraph tells Wish, 'ok'.
Wish tells Seraph, 'if she loses her mind, it is now on you'.


The Coral Cave
[Exits: south]
Glittering white sand covers the floor of this room, curling in tiny swirls
across the room as if by some unseen current. The cave appears to have
naturally grown within the center of a massive coral formation, and you are
unable to detect any sign of intentional construction. The coral walls pulse
with life, as sea creatures dart in and out of tiny crevices, and colorful
coral fronds sway to and fro like leaves in the wind. Sunlight gently streams
into the room through cracks in the coral ceiling, bathing everything in an
eerie bluish cast. Some magical force must be at work here, since you appear to
be completely underwater, and yet able to breathe without difficulty. The
only exit is to the south, through a small carved out of the coral wall.
(Intense Dark Red Aura) [GS] Wish is here.
(Dark Red Aura) Teva is resting here.

Wish ftells, 'be ready to show Samiyah the weapon '.

Teva ftells, 'i will let you show her'.
Teva ftells, 'then you can hand back when you are done'.

Teva ftells, 'ohhhh reacher on too'.

Wish ftells, 'i have to steal it'.

Samiyah touches her hand to her forehead, her lips, and her heart in a tribal gesture of respect.

Wish bows before you.

You say (in common), 'Hello..'.

Wish says, 'hello Samiyah'.
Wish says, 'Samiyah are you ready?'.

You say (in common), 'No... but this is my opportunity, and I will not waste it.'.

Teva stops using Similus, Mace of Suriel.
Teva wields a jeweled onyx dagger.

Teva ftells, 'steal it'.

Wish says, 'I have the weapon, Samiyah'.
Wish says, 'but one last thing before I let you touch it'.

You say (in common), 'Yes, Sahib?'.

Samiyah looks at you curiously, raising one eyebrow.

Wish says, 'Your mind is fragile. You have suffered much.'.

Wish says, 'I have already said I suspect you will be ruined by this endeavor. Physically, perhaps...Mentally most certainly.'.

Samiyah says quietly, 'It has been difficult day already. And others think you may be right as well.'

Wish says, 'So my question for you is this:'.
Wish says, 'Who will you blame for this should it happen?'.

You say (in common), 'Only myself, for it is my choice.'.

Wish says, 'well, Samiyah, know this'.
Wish says, 'Lord Nash is the foundation of the world.'.
Wish says, 'Sane, or insane...may his Light shine upon thee'.

Wish unsheaths the Similus and holds it out for Samiyah to touch.

Samiyah ponders a moment, then sinks to her knees. She murmurs, 'I always seem to fall down, anyway..'

Wish laughs.

Samiyah closes her eyes, takes a shaky breath, and extends her hands until they just barely touch the weapon.

Samiyah collapses the rest of the way to the floor in a boneless sprawl.

Wish shakes his head resignedly.

You tell Wish (in common), '(she's just gonna sorta be passed out for a bit, if that's ok with you. Teva's not much for RP so I'm going to keep it simple)'.
Wish [GS] tells you, 'nod...he didn't want to do the honors'.
You tell Wish (in common), '(nod - figured. :) )'.

Blood oozes slowly from her eyes, ears, and nose.

Wish quickly sheaths the Similus, caressingly it lovingly with his 5th and 7th tentacles.

Wish gives Similus, Mace of Suriel to Teva.
Teva stops using a jeweled onyx dagger.
Teva wields Similus, Mace of Suriel.

Wish prods Samiyah with his 3rd tentacle.
Wish says, 'Well, I suppose this was what we expected.'.

Samiyah moans slightly, shifting beneath the poking.

Wish lifts his eyebrows in surprise...okay, cuttlefish don't have eyebrows, but where his eyebrows would be, that part lifts.
Wish says, 'I am surprised she has any motor function left.'.

You tell Wish (in common), '(Not THAT kind of moan)'.
Wish [GS] tells you, '*whistles innocently*'.

Wish says, 'I am sure it's just a reflex.'.
Wish says, 'Of the sort that occurs right before death.'.

You tell Wish (in common), '(Samiyah. Doorstop of the Coral Cave.)'.

Wish looks through his collection of business cards for the Midgaard Taxidermist.

Wish checks Samiyah's pulse with his 2nd tentacle. Thin and thready.

Wish gossips, 'Okay, well Samiyah is essentially comatose in the Coral Cave'.
Wish gossips, 'As was warned, she flew too close to the sun and melted her wings.'.

Teva gossips (in common), 'lol'.

Wish gossips, 'I would call for a great healer to assist her. But I fear it is too late for that.'.

Teva ftells, 'ah let her die'.
Teva ftells, 'hunt has her in their back pocket'.

Samiyah twitches.

Wish [GS] tells you, '(i have to log soon)'.
You tell Wish (in common), '*nodnod* '.
You tell Wish (in common), '(sami's just gonna kinda lay here. for a while. She's fried.)'.
Wish [GS] tells you, '(okay...by the way its not a safe room)'.
You tell Wish (in common), '... awesome!'.
Wish [GS] tells you, '(just kidding)'.
You tell Wish (in common), 'wouldn't have changed anything. :)'.

Wish ftells, 'okay, i have to go'.

Teva ftells, 'ok'.

Wish ftells, 'if Samiyah ever wakes up, kill her'.

Teva arrives from the south.
Teva ftells, 'will do'.
Teva ftells, 'your orders'.

Wish ftells, 'well, be nice about it'.

Teva ftells, 'i will be....what do you want took?'.

Wish ftells, 'hmmm...she is all about RP, so try to make it fit if you can. be creative'.

Teva ftells, 'um ok'.

Wish ftells, 'that way, both of you will be satisfied'.
Wish ftells, 'but if a noncreative opportunity arises...you have my blessing'.

Teva ftells, 'kk'.

DarkClaw's Intervention

You tell Wish, 'May I enter?'.

Wish tells you, 'yes'.

The Coral Cave
[Exits: south]
Glittering white sand covers the floor of this room, curling in tiny swirls
across the room as if by some unseen current. The cave appears to have
naturally grown within the center of a massive coral formation, and you are
unable to detect any sign of intentional construction. The coral walls pulse
with life, as sea creatures dart in and out of tiny crevices, and colorful
coral fronds sway to and fro like leaves in the wind. Sunlight gently streams
into the room through cracks in the coral ceiling, bathing everything in an
eerie bluish cast. Some magical force must be at work here, since you appear to
be completely underwater, and yet able to breathe without difficulty. The
only exit is to the south, through a small carved out of the coral wall.
(Hide) (Dark Red Aura) (White Aura) Teva is here.
(Invis 71) (Intense Dark Purple Aura) Seraph is here.
Samiyah is resting here.
(Intense Dark Red Aura) Wish is here.

Wish bows before you.

Teva utters the words, 'sanctuary'.
Teva is surrounded by a white aura.
Teva leaves south.

Ghazkull ftells, 'Sami is in trouble?'.

Belgarion ftells, 'might be'.

DarkClaw looks to Samiyah quickly with alarm, eyes flashing a brilliant crimson in color at the sight of blood everywhere.

Belgarion ftells, 'maybe a death would help her head some'.

Ghazkull ftells, 'heh'.

Belgarion ftells, 'i feel bad for her'.
Belgarion ftells, 'almost pity'.

Ghazkull ftells, 'she's very confused'.

Belgarion ftells, 'very'.
Belgarion ftells, 'its such a shame that Seraph did what he did'.

DarkClaw growls, struggling against the initial hunger, forcing herself not to respond as instinct would have it.

Belgarion ftells, 'she should have stuck with what she was doing at first and stayed away from Seraph'.

Ghazkull ftells, 'things happen for a reason'.

DarkClaw moves closer, senses reeling at the intoxicating scent of Samiyah's blood, her voice soft and hoarse, "What happened to you?"

Samiyah does not move, her heart barely beating, the movement of her lungs nearly imperceptible.

DarkClaw reaches out and runs her hands over Sami's lifeless form, struggling through the haze to bring herself around enough to heal her wounds.

DarkClaw growls louder and shakes her head, backing away as the hunger becomes unbearable, "SERAPH! Where the hell ARE you?!"

DarkClaw paces the cave, back and forth, unsure of what to do, but knowing she can't stay much longer.

DarkClaw lifts her hands, taking the sight of Samiyah's blood coating them, almost symbolic of what would occur.

Belgarion ftells, 'are you busy hun'.

DarkClaw snarls out a curse against Seraph and stumbles a few steps, then takes her leave.

Western Avenue
[Exits: north east west]
(Dark Purple Aura) Belgarion is here.
(Dark Red Aura) (White Aura) Teva is here.

Belgarion says (in common), 'if i decide to drop OM then i will go 30'.

Teva nods.

Belgarion says (in common), 'not sure what i would do though'.

Teva says (in common), 'thug'.

DarkClaw stumbles into the room, hands coated in blood, eyes wide and nostrils flaring.

Belgarion says (in common), 'thug or thief'.

Teva laughs at you mercilessly. Hmmmmph.

Belgarion says (in common), 'ok whats wrong?'.

Teva says (in common), 'she just fed'.
Teva says (in common), 'on Samiyah'.

Belgarion says (in common), 'did you?'.

Teva utters the words, 'sanctuary'.
Teva is surrounded by a white aura.

Belgarion tells you (in common), 'what the hell?'.

DarkClaw shakes her head, moving away from both of you, swallowing and still struggling with the hunger, her gaze fixed to her hands.

Belgarion says (in common), 'ok tell me'.

Belgarion says (in common), 'she doesn't feed from her hands'.

Belgarion grumbles.

DarkClaw pants, her bats chittering with agitation around her, as she falls to her knees, "I...couldn't..."

Belgarion blinks.

DarkClaw whispers hoarsely, "I couldn't heal her, so I..."

Belgarion says (in common), 'oh no'.
Belgarion blinks.

DarkClaw looks up to Belgarion bleakly, "I couldn't...fight it..."
You say, 'Had to...'.

Belgarion helps Darkclaw to her feet.
Belgarion says (in common), 'let's go to the temple'.
Belgarion says (in common), 'teva go to yours check on Sami'.

DarkClaw pushes Belgarion away with alarm and flees the room.

Temple of the Lost
[Exits: west]
A large eye hovers in mid-air here, emitting a soft, purple glow.
(Invis) (Dark Purple Aura) Zarathos is sleeping here.

Belgarion arrives from the west.

DarkClaw looks up to Belgarion once again in alarm as he enters the temple, holding out one bloodied hand to stay him off. "Stay back."

Belgarion shakes his head.
Belgarion says (in common), 'you have to tell me what happened. I can make guess after guess and may never hit the mark'.

DarkClaw blurts out, "She is dying!"

Belgarion says (in common), 'I know. I remember saying that she was going to die if she followed the course she was on. She has chosen her path though'.

DarkClaw shakes her head quickly, "I need..."

Belgarion says (in common), 'you need what?'.
Belgarion says (in common), 'i cant work with all these half sentences'.
Belgarion says (in common), 'you need to tell me'.

Belgarion looks closely at DarkClaw.
Belgarion says (in common), 'did you feed?'.

DarkClaw hisses and backs away even more, fangs fully extended and catching what little light exists within the temple. "LEAVE...PLEASE!"

Belgarion bows deeply.
Belgarion leaves west.

02/20/2013

Healing

The Coral Cave
[Exits: south]
Glittering white sand covers the floor of this room, curling in tiny swirls
across the room as if by some unseen current. The cave appears to have
naturally grown within the center of a massive coral formation, and you are
unable to detect any sign of intentional construction. The coral walls pulse
with life, as sea creatures dart in and out of tiny crevices, and colorful
coral fronds sway to and fro like leaves in the wind. Sunlight gently streams
into the room through cracks in the coral ceiling, bathing everything in an
eerie bluish cast. Some magical force must be at work here, since you appear to
be completely underwater, and yet able to breathe without difficulty. The
only exit is to the south, through a small carved out of the coral wall.
A dark haired, robed woman lays here in a sprawl, comatose.

l woman
Heavy robes of black cover the figure that lays sprawled upon the sands
of the cave. Her face is partially covered by the tangle of many braids
in the desert style, but it is clear she is deeply injured: blood oozes
from her nose and ears and eyes - some fresh, some dried some hours ago.
Her breathing is shallow, barely discernible, and her pulse is thready.

Someone steps out of the shadows.

Samiyah twitches.

Someone says, 'Samiyah?'.

Someone walks over, kneeling before you, lifting your head gently and placing it in his lap.

Samiyah whimpers softly, but does not awaken.

Seraph whispers: Dear one......

Seraph whispers: please forgive me.

Samiyah's breathing shifts slightly.

Seraph lays your head back on the floor gently.

Samiyah's breathing fades once more into almost nothingness.

Seraph lays his right hand over your eyes. It starts to turn bright red.

Seraph takes your soul from your eyes, forming a ball with it.

Seraph examines it quickly then pulls a black gem fron the air.

Seraph pulls part of his soul from the gem and combines it with Samiyah's blue soul.

Seraph makes a perfect ball with the two souls and places it over your eyes.

Seraph hands turns a reddish blue as the soul enters your body.

Samiyah's heart skips a beat as her spirit, augmented by yours, flows back into her body.

Seraph watches as your body glows, the souls start to heal.

Samiyah whimpers and shifts slightly.

Seraph gently picks up your head, resting it in his lap.

Samiyah exhales, the sound one of pain's release.

Seraph whispers: Wake, Samiyah, I am here.

Samiyah breathes more deeply, her eyelids fluttering.

Samiyah barely whispers, 'Seraph?'

Seraph's wings fold around you.
Seraph whispers: i am here.

Samiyah lays quietly, unmoving, save for a slight nod. '... felt Your wings.'

Seraph says, 'rest Dear one'.

Samiyah whispers, 'You were right.'
Samiyah whispers, 'But I had to try.'

Seraph nods slowly.

Seraph says, 'what did you see? or feel?'.

Samiyah gestures weakly, fingers flicking outward. 'Everything.'

Seraph nods slowly.

Samiyah swallows hard, and forces her eyes open with effort.

Samiyah looks up at you. 'You were ... very bad man. But it ...made you worse.'

Seraph nods slowly.

Samiyah sighs quietly, turning slightly so that her cheek rests against your leg.

Samiyah murmurs, 'Thank you. For coming for me. I was... lost.'

Seraph says, 'i know'.

Samiyah gestures vaguely at her head. 'I was seeing.. and couldn't.. figure out... what was me and what wasn't.'

Seraph says, 'Visions. Just vision'.

Seraph sighs, "You were living my life."

Samiyah nods slightly.

You say (in common), 'not just yours.. others, too...'.

Seraph nods.

Seraph whispers: The Huntsman, Solaron, had it. My lord changed it for me.

Samiyah nods.
You say (in common), 'Saw him.'.

Samiyah gestures weakly at her face. 'Lost veil somewhere.'

Seraph forms a veil then places it over your face.

Samiyah makes a sound of protest.

Seraph says, 'it is your way '.

Samiyah whispers, 'it is.. tradition... but...'
Samiyah whispers, 'no. not with ...' she seems to be searching for the right word, through the fog. She shakes her head again. 'You.'
Samiyah looks up at your face, bare of helm. 'Yours, gone, too.'

Seraph nods.
Seraph says, 'my face has been seen by many'.

Samiyah looks at you, a slight worried frown tugging at her mouth. 'No armor. Before...you were dying. Now?' Her expression asks the question.

Seraph says, 'no not dying'.

Samiyah swallows slowly and nods, eyes sinking closed for a moment in weariness.
Samiyah whispers, 'Want to go home. Face Elders. Tell them - they are wrong.'

Seraph says, 'sleep, dear one, and regain your strength. We will speak after'.

Samiyah nods slightly at your words, and drifts off into sleep.

Unwelcome

Wish bows deeply.

Wish nudges Samiyah with his 1st tentacle.

Samiyah murmurs softly, shifting.

Wish says, 'is Sami all healed up now?'.
Wish says, 'I was most certain she was going to kick it'.

Wish creates a spiral clam shell out of thin air!
Wish closes the clam.
Wish locks the clam.
Wish eats a spiral clam shell.

Wish thunders at the top of his gills, "Samiyah, arouse yourself!"

Wish prods Samiyah a bit more roughly.

Samiyah startles awake, with a gasp, struggling to rise, but unable.

Wish says, 'Samiyah, you have been lounging about in my temple now for nearly a day!'.

Wish utters the words, 'gjwwai'.
Thormalin arrives suddenly.

Thormalin chuckles, evidently amused.

Wish bows before Thormalin.
Thormalin bows before Wish.

Wish bows deeply.

Thormalin laughs.

Wish says, 'I would like to clean up you know, but your nearly lifeless corpse is in the way.'.

Thormalin looks at you.
Thormalin sits down and thinks deeply.

Wish says, 'Please leave.'.

Samiyah attempts to sit up, but is unable to do so. She answers softly, the words a slurred murmur, 'F'give me, Sahib.'

Wish frowns.

Thormalin helps Sami to her feet.

Wish says, 'Still recovering from your ordeal?'.

Samiyah swallows, her eyes blinking closed a moment, then speaks again. 'Will ask friends... to help me out.'

Wish says, 'Friends? What friends do you speak of?'.

Thormalin sits down and thinks deeply.

Wish says, 'or do you mean Seraph'.

Samiyah gestures vaguely. 'Friends...' She tries once more to sit up, her fingers finding no purchase in the sand. At his name, she nods.

Wish says, 'I would have thought Seraph would have healed you by now'.

Samiyah says, 'He.. helped. Woke me. Told me to rest more.'
Samiyah gestures vaguely at her head.

Wish says, 'He told you to "rest"?'.
Wish says, 'that's it?'.
Wish says, 'that was the extent of his efforts to...assist you?'.

Wish prods Samiyah as she tries to doze a bit more.

Samiyah shakes her head slightly, braids tumbling over her face. 'No. Did.. something. Feels..' She taps her chest weakly. 'Different.'

Wish says, 'Stay awake, Samiyah.'.

Samiyah nods, her eyes drifting shut. 'Yes, Sahib.'

Wish says, 'Seraph, is Samiyah your follower or not?'.

Seraph says, 'she will be fine, Wish. she is healing'.

Wish frowns.
Wish says, 'Are you a God or are you not, Seraph? Are you even capable of healing anyone but yourself?'.
Wish says, 'I have patience, Lord Nash knows I do.'.

Samiyah smiles slightly as she hears Seraph's voice, her head turning in that direction.

Seraph says, 'she is healing now, Wish. I have healed her'.

Samiyah's breathing slows once more as she drifts off back to sleep.

Wish prods Samiyah to stay awake.

Samiyah gasps, startled.

Thormalin chuckles, evidently amused.

Wish says, 'I do not see a healed woman in my Temple'.

Thormalin shakes his head.

Seraph says, 'i can take her somewhere else if you like'.

Wish says, 'yes, I would like that'.

Samiyah tries once more to sit up.

Wish says, 'Please, since you apparently are incapable of healing her completely, remove her to another location.'.

Seraph scoops Samiyah up in his arms.
Seraph says, 'it takes time, Wish. Her soul was shattered'.

Samiyah lays her head on Seraph's chest, her eyes closed.

Wish laughs with disgust.

Thormalin chuckles, evidently amused.

Wish says, 'Shattered soul, you say?'.

Seraph nods.

Wish says, 'Souls cannot be shattered, Seraph!'.

Seraph says, 'yes, they can wish'.

Wish says, 'Only ego's can be shattered, Seraph'.

Wish says, 'Souls are immutable!'.

Samiyah slides back into sleep, despite the arguing going on around her.

Seraph says, 'i have been dealing with souls for a long time'.

Wish says, 'Now, please, remove her so that I may have some privacy with my followers in my temple.'.

Seraph leaves south, carrying Samiyah.

The Baths
[Exits: north]
You are in a spacious chamber. Marble benches surround the room, facing in
toward the large bathing pool that fills its center. Steam curls up from its
waters, and you are aware of the warm humidity that fills the air. Water
flows forth from a statue in the center of the pool, keeping it hot
and fresh. A marble archway leads out to the north.
(Invis 71) (Intense Dark Purple Aura) [GS] Seraph is here.


Seraph sits down and holds you in his lap.

Samiyah murmurs slightly, the words unintelligible, and sleeps peacefully.

Awoken: Wish's Perspective

I must admit I felt a little remorseful for kicking Samiyah out of my Coral Cave while she was still recovering from her self-inflicted trauma. Normally, I wouldn’t care where she might decide to die and rot, but it is a new Temple after all, with that new Temple smell. An unwashed desert girl covered in dried blood and vomit can ruin that feeling pretty quickly. Still, I did take (gleeful!) part in bringing her to this low condition, and so I thought I should at least check up on her.

I was pretty sure I knew where she went off to, and tracking her was made all the easier by the trail of body fluids that led directly to the Baths. There she was, poor thing, asleep on one of the benches, wrapped only in a grimy towel . For a moment I was taken by the urge to just drown her in the Baths and be done with it, but then I remembered I was there out of remorse, and so instead I decided to wake her with a prod from one of my tentacles. Looking back, that was probably a mistake.

Slowly, she opened her bloodshot eyes. Sweat beaded her forehead, and she was clearly still unwell. I suppose I should have asked her how she was feeling or provided some friendly comfort, but my curiosity got the better of my remorse, and so other than offer her a lounge chair, I dispensed with such pleasantries.

“Samiyah! Wake up, desert girl.”, I said, as I plopped down into the comfortable chair, my gelatinous body seeping through some of the larger crevices. “I have some questions for you about your ordeal, such as it was.”

She barely was able to rouse herself, and sat only semi-upright on the bench, her head wobbling from side to side and her eyes looking off in different directions. The most she could manage was a nod in my direction and a barely mumbled “Yes, Sahib?”.

“Tell me, Samiyah, what happened when you touched the Similus. I am curious to know.”

Samiyah groaned slightly, and managed to gesture to her head. “You…right about… things,” she mumbled. “Broken. Inside.”

“Broken you say? Did I not warn you, Samiyah, that this little adventure of yours would lead to insanity.” I idly scratched under my 3rd tentacle with my 4th tentacle. Samiyah only nodded and tried to lay back down. I prodded her again, admonishing her to stay awake.

“Seraph…healed me…told me to sleep,” she protested.

“Hah! If Seraph had truly healed you, why would you need to sleep? That is ridiculous. Seraph has no power to heal you, desert girl!”

“My soul…shattered…he fixed it…I felt it,” she said.

“Don’t be ridiculous, souls can’t be shattered, Samiyah. Besides, the Similus is nothing but an object. It has no power other than what you give it.” My tentacles quivered with irritation at her ignorance.

“No, Sahib,” she groaned, “Similus is evil. It has a Soul…I felt it take pleasure…shatter me. He healed me.” Her words were slurred, and occasionally spittle flew from her lips and dripped down her chin, mixing with the sweat.

“Samiyah, the Similus is a material object. It has no soul. Only the living have souls. Are you so ignorant not to understand that?”

“The Arch-Lich, Sahib…He not living…he has a Soul.”

Now, for some reason, whenever I hear mention the Arch-Lich I get hungry . Don’t ask me why, I suppose it is a reflex action from my mortal days as a rabid Conclave killer. So, reaching into my pocket I found a small fish and plopped into my eager, clicking beak for a snack.

“Don’t be silly, desert girl! The Arch-Lich has no Soul!” I said, as I wiped the scales from my beak. “And this is all beside the point. This adventure of yours has been of your own making. Seraph’s shield, his helm…Similus, his mace: these have no power in and of themselves.

“The visions you saw, the things you felt, these were all done by you. It was your imagination, that brought on your visions. Even your physical ailments. All of these were of your own doing. How could they be otherwise, when no one else has been affected by these objects?”

“No, Sahib, I saw...Solaron…Huntsmen…war with Fate. Things I could not have seen.” She seemed to be fading again, her eyes drifting shut in painful reverie. So, using one of my tentacles, I splashed her eyes with warm water and ectoplasm. She sat upright abruptly, sputtering.

"Samiyah, stay awake, and look me in the eyes! It is you who have empowered them with your…your…”

“My belief, Sahib?” she offered. She seemed more alert now, and able to at least complete her sentences without drifting off.

“Yes, your belief in them. Where did you ever…”

“No, Sahib,” she interrupted. “My belief in Him!”

Now this took me by surprise, I must admit. This ignorant girl, from some unknown, backwards desert tribe had just expressed the root, the very essence, of Nashite philosophy: Godly power, existence even, is dependent on Belief. Perhaps I had underestimated this desert girl.

“Samiyah,” I continued hesitantly, “do you understand now about Lord Nash?”

“I have learned much, Sahib. I have read his bible…the Apocry…whatever it is called. And many poems and stories. It is all…phooey.” This came out with barely hidden disgust.

“No, Samiyah, you are wrong. Just as your belief in Seraph awoke him from slumber, just as it empowered his toys, it is our belief in Lord Nash that empowers him.” I was confident in my approach. Overly confident, I would find. Some people are as stubborn as ice, and it would seem I had found a glacier.

“Sahib, the poems of Nash, the songs written about him, are terrible, stupid. Some call him a goat. They are all...’silly’, as you are so fond of saying,” she said, scornfully. “He is...nothing…phooey.” (Apparently in her desert tribal language, “phooey”, was the ultimate insult, like tossing a shoe at someone or something. I let it go.)

“Samiyah, there are good writers of songs and bad writers. If I were to write a song that called Seraph a turtle, would that make it so?”

“He is not a ….houseplant…or a turtle…He is...” she trailed off, not finishing her sentence. Or perhaps I was starting to lose interest and simply failed to hear her.

“Yes, Samiyah, those things he is not. Besides, were I to write such a song it would be an insult to turtles everywhere.” I suppose this was a low blow, but how could I resist? I imagined this insult of her God would sting her to the quick, and arouse her to further protests and verbal battle which, it turns out, was the true reason for my visit.

“My songs of Seraph are glorious. They soar like the desert sparrow! I am the greatest Bard, ever! The poems, the stories of Nash are…phooey! Nash may be powerful, but he is NOT the Creator! Tynian is the Creator!”

I could not help but laugh at this. Mischievously, I replied “The greatest Bard ever, you say? Would you like to place a wager on this, desert girl?” (Inside, I was literally repeating like a mantra “Oh please say yes, please say yes, please please please please say yes.)

She said hesitated…

…and said “No, Sahib, perhaps I misspoke. I am but the greatest writer of Seraph songs.”

My disappointment was palpable. So much fun spoiled with that single retraction. Perhaps I had not underestimated her after all.

“Well, I know of no other composer of Seraph songs, so perhaps you may claim that title. So you admit then, at least, that Lord Nash exists. I suppose this shall have to be enough.. for now.” I said, feeling as if I had won the day.

“No, Sahib,” said Samiyah, “Tynian can be felt, seen, heard. My God, He can be felt, seen, heard. Lord Nash is a fantasy. He is nowhere to be felt, nowhere to be seen. He is not even desert wind.”

I was taken aback by her confidence. Had we not already agreed that it was belief itself that empowered the Gods? Did she not see that Lord Nash, whom more mortals had believed in, written more stories about, and sung more songs about than any other God, was more powerful than all of the other Gods combined? Her stubbornness and rejection of her own arguments was infuriating. I attempted to recover with an analogy.

“Samiyah, can the fish feel the water?” I asked, intending to answer my own rhetorical question.

“Of course it can, Sahib. I have seen them react to the currents. And now you will say that Lord Nash is the water. Phooey! My God, who I can see, who I can hear, has commanded me to sleep, to heal. Let me alone now, Sahib.” And with that she closed her eyes and fell deeply asleep, not even waiting for my reply.

I was at a total loss of words, and I squithered* out of the Baths in a daze. Had I truly been bested by this simple tribal waif, whose entire experience of the world had been, until just the day before, from behind a beaded veil? I had to admit I had. Thinking back on the previous days, I understood, despite her outward appearance and her primitive demeanor, that she had undergone her own Alchemical transformation. The silly desert girl had now become a formidable woman.

As I retreated to my Cave, a sly smile crossed my face with this new understanding. Yes, I thought, she is no longer a silly desert girl. I have applied my own Alchemy code and helped manifest her Change. And yet more applications of the Code shall come, I thought.

I chuckled to myself.

After all, the practice of Alchemy has consequences, do they not? Let us see if Samiyah can live with hers…

To be continued….

• Completely made up new word just now. Fucking genius!! Hah!!
  

Awoken: Sami's Perspective

I was awoken from dreams of places I have never been and people I have never fought, to the presence of Wish, the god of the Nashites. At first, I thought it still part of the dreams that had held me so strongly, but no. He was glaring at me, as if he had been waiting for a response for some time, and my leg hurt, as if he had jabbed it. My eyes burned, as if twin coals had been pressed into them and my whole body screamed in protest. Sounds were coming out of his mouth, but for a long moment, I could not understand him. Blinking, I concentrated, as if trying to memorize a piece of music, and was able to understand, at least a little better.

Wish demanded to know what I had experienced when I touched Similus. I had to acknowledge that he and others had been right, that it had broken something inside me, but that Seraph had helped to heal it. He asked again -- what had I seen? and then argued with me when I tried to describe it. I know that I was not communicating well - my head swam with visions and sleep pulled at me like the current of a river, always seeking to pull me into its oblivion - but he kept asking, over and over, it seemed. Why did I think the visions came from Similus? Why did I not realize that it was just my own imagination, just as Seraph's healing had been? I tried to explain the sense of Similus as a living thing, that I had seen things that I did not know of. I described Solaron and his battles and the conflict he had with ones who were once brothers and sisters. I told him of Seraph and all the bloodshed I had seen him do. All of this I knew - because of what Similus had showed me. And I told him he was wrong: Seraph had saved my life.

Anyone could tell the tale that Seraph was a killer, he said - it was too well known. Sorrow touched my heart, but I knew his words to be true. Yet, I countered, the same could be said of any Ordained - and that three such, Belgarion, Sagan, and my own brother, Cresom, had acknowledged it. Dark deeds, but for a purpose, to help and protect and defend - this is the task of an Ordained - but that for those who bore Similus, it was much worse. That it was an evil thing that prompted more evil from those that wielded it. Honestly, I do not know how much of this I actually was able to say - words seem to stick to my tongue, coming out only in a mumble. My head throbbed with each word, waves of pain flowing in and out like sand pushed by the winds. Seraph had saved my life, yet again holding my soul in His hands to keep it from the spirit lands, but I knew I was a long way from being well.

Wish told me I was a silly desert girl, that objects - things that are not Living - do not have souls. Thinking of something that I saw in the Manor while I was on my quest, I defiantly countered with the name of the Arch-Lich. He laughed in his odd way, and demanded to know: What gave me the idea that the Arch-Lich had a soul? I could not give an answer, so I merely shrugged and tried to go back to the sleep I so achingly needed, horrible visions of what I had seen depicted so graphically in the Manor already taking hold.

A splash of slimy, filthy water in my face shocked me awake once more. He said my name sharply and commanded that I stay awake and look at him. The twin tides swirling within me - the need to obey and my own body's weakness - made me dizzy. I wanted to scream at him and beg him to leave me alone, but bit my lip and stayed silent, focusing on his words. He turned his questions to what I had seen on my quest: What had I learned of Nash?

I confess it: I was afraid. How was it that he did not know of my past conflicts and terrors with Nashites? That this fear had been my constant companion, clinging to me as closely as my own shadow, while I walked through the Manor? I have seen my own death at their hands and sung of it before their Pope. Three times, I was called to that Tower, and three times, I saw visions of my own blood spilling onto that floor. I heard Seraph's voice, as if he stood beside me: Show no weakness. I sought to hide my fear with bravado, deliberately impolite, using a word that I had seen a boy in Midgaard be beaten by his mother for using. "Nash is phooey!" Wish seemed taken aback, so I tried to press the point. Nash was the silliest of tales - a badly written mockery that would get any bard booed off the stage, if they wrote about Immortals being so childish as to go about peeing on people! He countered that not all bards are equal and perhaps the bards that had written of Nash spoke only from a mortal perspective, writing of something they could not fully comprehend. But if I should believe the songs of Nash, I said, what of the songs written of him being a goat, too. Were they just as true? His tone mocking, he said he or another could write ridicule of Seraph, painting him as a turtle. Pride and anger turned my tongue at that moment, and I boasted that my writing of the Sahib was better than any other, certainly better than anything such as was written about Nash. Almost like a sand-cat on an unwary lizard, Wish pounced on my words. Would I care to wager? The warning thrum of danger made my heart pound, and again I heard Seraph's voice as if He knelt beside me, whispering in my ear. 'Be careful, my dear one. Choose wisely.' I was too exhausted to do aught but shake my head, no, and confess my arrogance.

My head swam in a fog as Wish continued to press me with questions, like a swarm of bees stinging from all sides. How could I have faith and belief in Seraph, and yet not acknowledge the faith and belief others held in Nash? My stumbling reply was that I could see, feel, hear, and touch Seraph, or Tynian, the true Creator... Yet none of these things were possible with Nash.. and that for one's belief to bolster an Immortal, the being had to actually exist. I said again: I did not believe in Nash, but I believed in Seraph. He taunted my faith, saying that Seraph had not healed me - that I had healed myself. That Seraph had no power, was utterly weak and helpless. I became angry, hearing Belgarion's words yet again, repeated in another's voice, and dragged myself upright, though the room swam before my burning eyes and my insides felt like quicksand. I said that Seraph had saved me. That I felt a change within myself, felt His presence, as if His wings were around me. Knew that my renewal and healing was His doing.

Wish laughed and called me a foolish desert girl - had I witnessed its doing? I am a silly girl and I was not awake when it was done, so I could not, in truth, argue with that, only said again that I felt it and knew it to be so. Again and again, like a whirlpool, he circled around the topic of Nash, until my head was dizzy with it. I must confess, he is a very good orator and would have made a fine bard, for he twisted the tale so much that I nearly found myself agreeing with him, purely for the passion of his argument, and not for any truth to the matter.

Finally, he asked if a fish can feel the water. Of course it can, I replied; does it not change course in response to the current? Tired of all of these questions and so desperate for sleep, I snapped back rudely - wrong of me, I know - I supposed, I said, that he would next tell me that Nash was the water. No, he replied, Nash is the ocean. A phooey ocean of pee, which you willingly swim in! I thought, but wisely held my tongue. He was getting irritated and angry with my stubbornness, or perhaps my inability to speak properly, for at long last, he bade me sleep, then called me back from its brink with two questions: What did I think would happen if Seraph's shield, helm, and weapon were destroyed? Not knowing the answer, I gave that as my reply. What, then, if Similus was destroyed? Again, I did not know, but said that I did not think it could be. I could hear his evil snickering as I slid into the embrace of sleep, and it troubled my dreams, wondering what he might be plotting.