To Aid The Weaver
Notes: Cordir has cast the 'Mind Blank' spell on herself, shattering specific memories from her mind and placing them in delicate glass objects. The six objects are scattered around the world, at the locations tied to those particular memories. She has retreated away from the more human, gentle, engaged version of herself, and become the immortal she would have been, had one single event in her life NOT occurred. Ebon Weaver Incarnate; icy, cold, inhuman, and un-remembering. Aoide, one of Her bards, immediately sees the change and pursues the cause as to why.... The Bard’s first inkling of something wrong can be found at the beginning and end of Aoide - Level 5 Bard Review. The multi-part log that follows is from Aoide’s perspective, in April of 2011.
Cordir tells you, 'greetings, bard'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'My lady! I have been away...how are you?'.
Cordir tells you, 'I ... am. My Sister is Reborn. The Pattern has shifted mightily.'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'oh my, much has happened'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'the last time we spoke you were, disoriented and sad. Are you feeling better?'.
Cordir tells you, 'was I?'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'yes :('.
l
In a Damp Cave
[Exits: east south]
You are in a dark, damp cave. You can hear the sounds of water dripping all
around you.
(Invis 73) (Intense Dark Red Aura) Cordir is here.
You curtsey to your audience.
l cordir The Lady Weaver stands Incarnate before you, Her ebon eyes as clear and empty as obsidian. An unfelt wind stirs Her hair, making it ebb and flow, a shroud to veil Her person. There is something shuttered and hollow, some sense that all is not right about Her. She turns Her attention to you, your intent stare having drawn Her notice, and the wind rises. You feel your sense of self slip away beneath the weight of that barren gaze: for what is self, but memories, dreams and hopes? Cordir is bathed in the essence of charisma. Cordir is in perfect health. Cordir is using: <used as light> (Weak magic) (Dancing) ancient ebon flames <worn on finger> (Red Aura) (Magical) an onyx ring <worn on finger> (Moderate magic) the Band of the Stormreaver <worn on body> (Moderate magic) an austere robe of black spidersilk <worn about waist> (Moderate magic) a narrow belt of braided black spidersilk <wielded> (Moderate magic) a bloodstained pair of embroidery scissors <held> (Token magic) a Staff of Fear <worn with pride> the Ebon Sigil Odegra <worn with pride> (Tattooed) (Writhing) The Covenant of the Chosen
frown
What's bothering you?
You say (in common), 'my lady is lovely in all her incarnations, of course'.
You say (in common), 'but we miss your smile'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'Lady, may I be so bold as to mention that you have changed?'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'I do not wish to step out of line'.
You say (in common), 'I don't know if you wish to be left as you are, but I can not think so'.
Cordir says, 'i do not follow your meaning. all is as it has ever been.'.
shake
You shake your head.
You say (in common), 'my memory is otherwise'.
You say (in common), 'for starters, your aura has darkened and uh, reddened'.
Aoide shuffles nervously.
Cordir says, 'your memory is false.'.
You cough.
You say (in common), 'perhaps'.
You ponder the question.
You say (in common), 'I wish to bring you no displeasure. For my next bard performance, I have been composing a song of tales from your past'.
You say (in common), 'perhaps that will be enjoyable for you'.
Cordir says, 'and where have you learned of My deeds?'.
You say (in common), 'here and there have been mortals and immortals willing to share stories'.
Cordir says, 'I told you but one tale'.
You say (in common), 'of course, with time perhaps details have faded'.
You say (in common), 'that is true'.
You say (in common), 'but you also allowed me a peek in to your book of poems'.
Cordir says, 'ah, Boromir? I have known him for centuries.'.
Cordir nods.
Cordir says, 'indeed.'.
You say (in common), 'it was not Boromir, no'.
You say (in common), 'although perhaps I shall pester him if you have known him long'.
You say (in common), 'and your sister as well'.
You say (in common), 'but no, this particular tale came from...'.
You say (in common), 'um'.
Cordir raises an eyebrow.
Aoide whispers, "Isolas".
You say (in common), 'the Phantom, as he is called'.
Cordir frowns. "And what would the Phantom know of Me? He served but a brief span and departed to Wylin's service."
You say (in common), 'Lady, I'm not sure what all to say'.
Cordir says, 'He and I do not associate - I am a heretic excommunicate to the Nashites."'.
You say (in common), 'I wish you no pain, but I wonder if you are happy in your current state'.
Cordir frowns impatiently. "What, by Thaygar's burning hand, are you talking about?"
You sigh.
You say (in common), 'first of all, he claimed to know you best as any of your mortals'.
You say (in common), ‘and that he had been a...lover.”
You say (in common), 'and also, lady, there was the episode before the songs on strong drink'.
You say (in common), 'on that day and before, your aura was a brighter'.
Cordir scoffs. "He stayed but for a matter of weeks. And I have ever been wed or vowed to the Stormreaver."
You say (in common), 'and though reserved, you were happier'.
You say (in common), 'your eyes were a different color and your manner, less severe'.
You say (in common), 'then something happened...we don't know what'.
Cordir says, 'I shall have to deal with him for these lies.'.
You say (in common), 'but you were quite upset'.
You say (in common), 'and ever since, changed'.
Cordir frowns.
Aoide curtseys low, not looking up.
You say (in common), 'please forgive me if I have born incomplete information'.
You say (in common), 'but I swear nothing but the best intentions'.
You say (in common), 'and the closest to truth as I know it'.
Cordir says, '... I do not imbibe. My handmaiden only ever brings Me tea."'.
You nod.
You say (in common), 'you did mention a preference for chamomile tea'.
You say (in common), 'however, in celebration for the bag of scores and scrolls you collected and sold us'.
You say (in common), 'Viteazu and I sang you a song'.
You say (in common), 'and presented you with a variety of drinks'.
You say (in common), 'one of them was whiskey'.
Cordir frowns.
You say (in common), 'I did not see my lady drink it'.
Cordir says, 'I recall the song'.
You say (in common), 'but you did, um, describe the effects'.
You say (in common), 'I have not mentioned this to anyone, as we were sworn'.
You say (in common), 'so as not to slander'.
Cordir says, 'I would not have done so.'.
You say (in common), 'but I did keep a careful written account'.
You say (in common), 'I thought at first that I should not say anything, but as my lady does not appear improved'.
You say (in common), 'I wonder if there has been some altering of your memory?'.
You say (in common), 'or some pain too strong that it is blocked out?'.
Cordir gestures abruptly. "I am as I have always been. Always must be."
You say (in common), 'no lady, that is not so'.
Cordir says, 'Go back to this Isolas and demand he give you the truth and not these strange lies'.
You say (in common), 'I will do that, lady'.
You say (in common), 'he was hesitant to share details'.
You say (in common), 'but he did mention a hammock'.
You say (in common), 'a stolen kiss'.
Cordir says, 'There has a hammock in My temple. It belonged to Ptarchyzk'.
Cordir says, 'and no one would ever dare kiss Me save the Stormreaver'.
You say (in common), 'perhaps it was merely a desire'.
You say (in common), 'or as you say, a lie'.
Cordir says, 'on your way, then'.
You curtsey to your audience.
You say (in common), 'thank you, Lady'.
Cordir murmurs, "-- a lie."
LATER THAT SAME DAY
You tell Cordir (in common), 'my lady, I am apparently the realm's most disorganized bard'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'I have not found all of my notes, but I did retrieve one'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'from the, um, imbibed evening we discussed'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'if you have any interest in specifics'.
Cordir tells you, 'I do not know why the Phantom has told you such falsehoods. But I do not ...imbibe.'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'As you requested, I will ask the Phantom for clarification when we speak next'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'but um, well..'.
Cordir tells you, 'Surely you misunderstood.'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'the quest you sent us bards on, to compose songs of the evils of strong drink'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'was on your birthing day'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'do you remember that day?'.
Cordir tells you, 'I spent it in meditations with the shamans of N'Kai'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'perhaps some of it'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'but I was with you in the evening, as were the other bards Eathor, Viteazu, and Tikruul'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'and while I am happy to serve you for no other reason than your patronage to the bards of the realm'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'good, evil, or neutral'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'it does concern me that you seem to have forgotten yourself'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'your eyes were once the most lovely shade of indigo'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'of that I am certain'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'perhaps the other bards will add their memories to my own'.
Cordir tells you, 'they were that color, once, yes. Before I became Weaver.'.
You tell Cordir (in common), '*sigh*'.
You tell Cordir (in common), 'my lady, that book of poems I mentioned...do you have it still?'.
Cordir tells you, 'of course. It is one of my most ancient of possessions'.
Cordir has transferred you.
A Midnight Garden
[Exits: none]
The breathtaking loveliness of a midnight shadowed garden embraces you. The
night sky is filled with stars... no, not stars, but strands of light which
shimmer at the edges of sight. The soft call of unseen birds provides sweet
melody to please the ear and the low hoot of an owl echoes out of the trees,
only to be answered by the harsh, mocking scream of a carrion crow. A thick
tangle of web-shrouded crimson briar roses marks the boundaries of the area
and every conceivable variety of flower blooms within, despite the darkness.
At the center of the garden lies an ornate multi-tiered fountain, ebon fire
lighting the cascades from within. Benches have been placed invitingly in a
semi-circle around the stone basin of the fountain, set just inside a thick
band of mithril.
(Invis 73) (Intense Dark Red Aura) Cordir is here.
(White Aura) A distressingly large, shiny black spider weaves webs here.
You curtsey to your audience.
You say (in common), 'perhaps, if I may be so bold..'.
Cordir holds the book in one hand.
You say (in common), 'have you read it recently?'.
Cordir says, 'I have not.'.
You say (in common), 'I know that the poems are from your mortality'.
You say (in common), 'but perhaps they might help'.
Cordir says, 'Aye, from before I Ascended.'.
Cordir nods.
You ponder the question.
Cordir raises an eyebrow.
You say (in common), 'I have found another note'.
You say (in common), 'scribbled after the song Viteazu and I wrote'.
You say (in common), 'do you remember that evening in the Baths?'.
Cordir says, 'I do not bathe in public.'.
You laugh.
You say (in common), 'certainly not'.
You say (in common), 'it was a cold evening'.
You say (in common), 'and our lady mentioned she was chilled'.
You say (in common), 'so we performed in the Baths instead of the amphitheater'.
You say (in common), 'but as it turns out, it was an internal chill'.
You say (in common), 'perhaps a precursor to what ails you now'.
You say (in common), 'that is why we sang in the Baths'.
You say (in common), 'and why we brought whiskey, tea, and sherry'.
Cordir frowns.
You say (in common), 'I jotted down a stanza after the fact'.
You say (in common), 'please excuse it's roughness'.
You say (in common), 'I had not thought to edit it yet'.
Cordir repeats her earlier words in an odd monotone. "I do not imbibe. My handmaiden brings Me tea."
You say (in common), '"our lady was pleased with her surprise" / "though still a little sad" / "the tears spilled from her indigo eyes" / "we did finally glimpse a smile"'.
Cordir tilts Her head to one side, thinking.
You say (in common), 'it was also then that you told us the tale of your birth'.
Cordir says quietly, i remember telling you that tale, but i told it to you here, in this place."
You say (in common), 'no, definitely not'.
You say (in common), 'I am a mortal and my memory is, as you say, faulty'.
You say (in common), 'but we were definitely in the Baths'.
You say (in common), 'Viteazu and I chose the spot specifically for its warmth'.
Cordir frowns.
You say (in common), 'do you not remember? and Tikruul joined us later'.
You say (in common), 'with his nasty habit of eating live mice'.
Cordir says softly, "this is My home. It is warm."
You say (in common), 'this is your home, yes'.
You say (in common), 'but we were not here'.
You say (in common), 'let us speak of another something'.
You say (in common), 'within your book of poems, there was one'.
You say (in common), 'that we were charged not to mention to the subject'.
You say (in common), 'for he still walks in this realm'.
Cordir nods.
You say (in common), 'you mentioned that his memory is shuttered and that opening it would be harmful to him'.
You say (in common), 'how well do you understand that process?'.
Cordir says, 'The Grey One'.
You say (in common), 'if, say, something similar had happened to you...'.
You say (in common), 'would it bring you harm to remember?'.
You say (in common), 'we would rather a severe version of our lady than an injured one'.
Cordir's expression becomes grim. "Molo cast such magics on me when I was mortal."
You say (in common), 'well he is not around that I know'.
Cordir says, 'Jahiliya and Khore and others broke the spell.'.
You say (in common), 'but my lady, believe me when I say that you are not the same as you were before your birthing day'.
You say (in common), 'how? how did they accomplish it?'.
Cordir says, 'rebirth.'.
You say (in common), 'and Jahiliya, is she not the one who let you in to Midgaard when you fled your childhood home?'.
Cordir says, 'My rebirth.'.
Cordir says, 'Thrice.'.
You say (in common), 'the only rebirth I know is the reincarnation after a death'.
You say (in common), 'and you are past death, my lady'.
Cordir nods.
Cordir says, 'once, at Mystil's hands...'.
Cordir says, 'once at Keller's...'.
Cordir says, 'and the third time - willingly - at Jahiliya's'.
Cordir says, '.. there is power in threes, you know.'.
You nod.
You say (in common), 'yes'.
You say (in common), 'I am learning the old lore, my lady'.
You say (in common), 'it is part of my call as a Bard'.
Cordir says, 'the spell was called "mind blank"'.
You say (in common), 'I wish there was a way for you to have such a rebirth now'.
Cordir says, 'I cannot die. The Weaver is. Was. Ever shall be.'.
You nod.
You say (in common), 'or a way to reverse the spell'.
You say (in common), 'is it not something that could be unfettered?'.
You say (in common), 'or cured?'.
Cordir says, 'the law of three unbinds any enchantment upon the unwilling.'.
You say (in common), 'well then'.
You say (in common), 'three deaths, three rebirths'.
Katrana has granted you the ability to see her when she is invis.
You say (in common), 'that option is closed to us now'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'lady Katrana!'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'something is wrong with your sister!'.
Katrana tells you, ':) Hello my dear....Oh, what is wrong?'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'hello lady! and I'm not sure'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'she cannot remember herself or the recent past'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'there are some things I distinctly remember that she claims did not happen'.
Katrana tells you, 'Interesting...'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'and she has changed...physically as well'.
You say (in common), 'what else is as powerful?'.
You say (in common), 'love? hope?'.
Cordir says, 'I still do not see the change that you speak of. But if a change has occurred...'.
Aoide nods her head in gratitude.
You say (in common), 'if in fact it had'.
You say (in common), 'what would you do, if your sister had forgotten herself?'.
Katrana tells you, 'Does she remember she is one of the Triat? And her role?'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'oh yes'.
Cordir says, 'perhaps it was destined to be.'.
Cordir says, 'Hope dies. Even love dies.'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'and her mortality'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'but nothing since her last birthing day… a few weeks maybe?'.
You say (in common), 'no, not destined'.
You say (in common), 'what destiny would take your joy?'.
You say (in common), 'besides!'.
Aoide stamps her foot impatiently.
You say (in common), 'you say yourself that self is nothing but memories and dreams and hopes'.
You say (in common), 'they can't all die'.
Katrana tells you, 'Hrm...'.
Katrana tells you, 'I would keep asking her questions around the last item she remembers'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'I will do that'.
Cordir raises one brow at your emphatic stamp.
Your cheeks are burning.
You say (in common), 'I'm sorry lady, I'm just so frustrated!'.
Katrana tells you, 'Perhaps something happened to her Thread'.
You say (in common), 'perhaps if I was bigger or knew more'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'hmm...is there a way to fix it?'.
Katrana tells you, 'Did you ask her to look at her Thread?'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'no.. is that sort of thing...allowed?'.
Cordir says softly, but with intensity, "Hope dies."
You say (in common), 'my lady, might have something happened to your Thread?'.
Katrana tells you, 'She can read Threads, you could ask her.'.
You say (in common), 'but other hopes take their place'.
Cordir says, 'dreams... fade upon waking from sleep'.
Cordir says, '… and Immortals do not sleep.'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'I will do that'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'have you noticed a change upon your return?'.
Cordir says, 'only the Wyldess can cut a Thread. Only I can change its weave.'.
You tell Katrana (in common), 'that she is more solemn? that her aura is now red?'.
You nod.
You say (in common), 'certainly not cut, but perhaps the weave has changes'.
You say (in common), 'changed*'.
You say (in common), 'can you read that sort of thing?'.
Your cheeks are burning.
You say (in common), 'I mean no doubt, I just don't know what is and what is not allowed'.
Cordir glances upward into the Tapestry.
The Guardian Spider looks at you intently.
Aoide cannot meet the Spider's gaze.
Cordir says at last, "It appears... tangled."
You tell Katrana (in common), 'ok, good'.
>frown
What's bothering you?
You say (in common), 'my lady, if you can change the weaves'.
You say (in common), 'can anyone else?'.
You say (in common), 'or does the weave change as fate changes on its own?'.
Cordir says, 'no other can '.
You say (in common), 'well then! Can you straighten it back!'.
Cordir says, 'and the Weave changes as lives change'.
You say (in common), 'hm'.
You say (in common), 'my lady, if someone were to come to you'.
Cordir says, 'it is ... tangled. Threads interwoven too tightly.'.
You say (in common), 'with a similar problem'.
Cordir says, 'what kind of problem?'.
You say (in common), 'a tangled thread or a victim of mind blank'.
You say (in common), 'what would you suggest?'.
You say (in common), 'three deaths, certainly'.
You say (in common), 'but what if it were your sister, the lady Katrana?'.
You say (in common), 'she could not die'.
Cordir says, 'The Wyldess can be slain.'.
You say (in common), 'but not the Weaver?'.
Cordir says, 'the mind blank was lost aons ago.'.
>frown
What's bothering you?
You say (in common), 'I seek the power of threes'.
You say (in common), 'for you, my lady'.
Cordir does not smile but the stars in Her eyes flash. "I am older. Ascended."
Cordir says, 'the Nashites alone knew that spell.'.
Cordir says, 'Madman taught them its secrets'.
You ponder the question.
Cordir says, 'and...'.
You say (in common), 'perhaps the current Nashites, then?'.
Cordir says, 'if one came to me with such an .... issue'.
Aoide thinks that was a poor choice of word for a Goddess.
>blush
Your cheeks are burning.
Cordir says, 'I would ask: do they wish to remember?'.
You say (in common), 'and if the answer was yes?'.
Cordir says, 'The Grey One - does not seek to remember.'.
Cordir says, 'in his unknowing... there is peace.'.
Cordir sighs loudly.
What's bothering you?
Cordir says, 'if they wished it and the spell was wrought unwillingly..'.
Cordir says, 'the law of three would unbind it'.
You say (in common), 'peace for you, or just for him?'.
Cordir says, 'if it was willingly done...'.
You say (in common), 'but certainly nothing as easy as three laps around the temples or three dips in a clear stream.’
Cordir shakes Her head. "rebirth."
You say (in common), 'my lady, how can a Goddess be reborn?'.
Cordir says, 'if the spell was willingly taken on...’
Cordir says, 'then the memories themselves would have to have been set aside'.
Cordir says, 'given tangible form and destroyed'.
What's bothering you?
You say (in common), 'my lady, I have some thinking to do'.
You say (in common), 'if, in fact, you are changed from your previous self'.
You say (in common), 'we must discover if it was willingly done'.
You say (in common), 'and if not, how one Ascended as yourself can be reborn'.
You say (in common), 'and if so, then I will stop pestering you about it'.
You say (in common), 'you do look lovely in crimson as well'.
Cordir regards you in silence for a moment.
You say (in common), 'and I am sorry if I have grown too bold'.
You say (in common), 'I am still young and often impetuous'.
Cordir shakes her head.
You say (in common), 'and to find trouble'.
You laugh at yourself. I would, too.
Cordir gives you a small ebon-leather bound book.
You say (in common), 'if I may have your permission to withdraw. I do not wish to shatter a self-imposed peace'.
Cordir nods.
You say (in common), 'but I have reason to believe this has been unwilling'.
You say (in common), 'the book!'.
l book
A single, slim volume catches your notice. Bound in black leather, a
strange, moving symbol inscribed upon its cover in orichalcum, this book
is filled with page after page of neatly written poetry on a variety of
topics, from love to loss. Flipping to the inside liner, you read,
"Tokugawa: Enjoy - you're the only one who gets a copy, other than my
sister, Jahiliya. May you guide your charges with the same grace and
wisdom you granted the Trinity as Lord Foolkiller's right hand. May the
Weaver bless and ward you, the Wyld remind you to change and grow and the
Wyrm fill your world with enlightenment. Fondly, Cordir."
Page1: Questions
Page2: The Wheel
Page3: My Three Visions, My Three Dreams
Page4: Footsteps
Page5: Obedience
Page6: The Play's The Thing
Page7: Hunted
Page8: Dichotomy
Page9: Requiem
Page10: Risk (for Keller)
Page11: Strings
Page12: Beginnings (unpublished)
Page13: For Nameless
Page14: Colors
Page15: For Nash
Page16: For Gwyrdain
Page17: Betrayor Or Betrayed?
Page18: The Mirror
Page19: For Myself
Page20: Aspects
Page21: For Deamhan
Page22: All That Is Worth Having Is...
Cordir nods.
You say (in common), 'I will stay'.
You say (in common), 'if I may read a passage or two'.
Cordir shakes her head.
Cordir says, 'it is yours'.
You gasp in astonishment.
You say (in common), 'my lady, no'.
You say (in common), 'I would not know what to do with something so precious'.
Cordir says, 'I have no need of it now'.
You say (in common), 'I will hold it for you, keep it safe'.
Cordir regards you in confusion.
You say (in common), 'but I cannot believe that you would willingly part with something so great'.
Aoide wipes tears from her eyes
(Yet later that same day)
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'My Lady! You have returned!'.
Cordir tells Aoide, 'Yes, Bard.'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'I am glad :)'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'I had hoped to have done some more investigation before you returned, but I am pleased to see you nonetheless'.
Cordir tells Aoide, 'Investigation into what?'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'well, I believe that I have something of yours'.
Cordir tells Aoide, 'Indeed?'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'but am nervous as how to proceed'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'indeed'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'my pardons, lady, I had to retrieve it'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'when we last spoke, you mentioned that in a mind blank process, a person's memories would be attached to a tangible item and then destroyed'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'later that day, I found something curious at the Baths'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'and thought it might be something similar'.
Cordir tells Aoide, '... and you think this ... thing... is mine?'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'hm, I'm not sure'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'but it was very similar to what you had described'.
Cordir tells Aoide, 'Perhaps.'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'and there was another...incident while you were away'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'involving a spider'.
Cordir tells Aoide, 'Incident? of what sort?'.
Aoide tells Cordir (in common), 'are you available for an audience? I would rather show you.'.
A Midnight Garden
[Exits: south]
The breathtaking loveliness of a midnight shadowed garden embraces you. The
night sky is filled with stars... no, not stars, but strands of light which
shimmer at the edges of sight. The soft call of unseen birds provides sweet
melody to please the ear and the low hoot of an owl echoes out of the trees,
only to be answered by the harsh, mocking scream of a carrion crow. A thick
tangle of web-shrouded crimson briar roses marks the boundaries of the area
and every conceivable variety of flower blooms within, despite the darkness.
At the center of the garden lies an ornate multi-tiered fountain, ebon fire
lighting the cascades from within. Benches have been placed invitingly in a
semi-circle around the stone basin of the fountain, set just inside a thick
band of mithril.
(White Aura) A distressingly large, shiny black spider weaves webs here.
Cordir tells Aoide, '.. a moment.'.
A rush of darkness swirls into being.
Shadows of ebon black wrap around the bard.
Aoide appears from a mushroom cloud.
The shadows recede, leaving a bewildered bard in their wake.
Aoide curtseys gracefully for Cordir.
Aoide holds on out left hand, palm up, for you to see. Her hand is quivering.
Cordir regards you quietly.
Aoide says (in common), 'I was bitten.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'and then the spider...*gulp* burrowed into my palm.'.
Cordir cups your hand within her own.
Cordir examines the mark.
Aoide says (in common), 'and the mark remained.'.
Cordir glances over at Guardian reproachfully.
Aoide says (in common), 'it was a much smaller spider'.
Aoide giggles.
Aoide says (in common), 'but it did seem to behave strangely'.
The Guardian Spider makes a gesture with two legs that could almost be taken as a shrug.
The Guardian Spider says (in old-common), 'She is Yours. As much as the Wyldess'.'
Cordir glances at you sharply.
Cordir frowns slightly, making a slight gesture of refusal.
Aoide pales slightly.
Cordir says quietly, 'I have no more people.'
The Guardian Spider says (in old-common), 'She is Yours. I have Seen it.'
Aoide looks at her feet nervously.
Cordir raises one eyebrow.
The Guardian Spider says (in old-common), 'There will be Geasa. And some day... Mastery.'
The other brow raises.
Aoide says (in common), 'my lady, I am confused.'.
Cordir says, 'as am I.'.
Cordir says, 'Yet Guardian seems fairly certain that you were meant to be of the Weaver.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'and is Guardian always...correct?'.
Cordir glances at the spider, the very corners of Her mouth twitching. She murmurs, 'That depends on whom you ask.'
Aoide snickers softly.
Aoide says (in common), 'I must admit that I am slightly afraid'.
Cordir tilts her head to one side, Her empty eyes fixing upon yours. Quietly: "you should be."
Aoide says (in common), 'I am worried that I am not worthy, I *know* I am not ready'.
Aoide says (in common), 'perhaps what Guardian has seen is in the distant future'.
Cordir shrugs slightly. 'Yesterday is now. Tomorrow is now.'
Aoide nods slowly.
Aoide says (in common), 'I have been studying the Triat when I can find those willing to teach me'.
Cordir says, 'Corri can speak of the nows.'.
Cordir says, 'Though she always worries when now is not now.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I will ask her..I must admit that it hurts my head a little to work out that last option'.
Aoide laughs at herself. Let's all join in!!!
Aoide says (in common), 'does the prospect of my attachment to the Weaver...displease you?'.
Cordir says slowly, Her brow furrowing. 'There have been times, that the past was now. But now.. was not now. She was worried. She will be worried again.'
Cordir says, 'It does not.'.
Cordir says, 'I have Seen some of what Guardian speaks of.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'that calms me somewhat'.
Cordir says, 'My Mark would not be upon you, if I was displeased.'.
Cordir says, 'Even if I am, perhaps, surprised that it came so soon.'.
Aoide smiles happily.
Aoide says (in common), 'I was comforted by the mark'.
Aoide says (in common), 'if confused'.
Aoide says (in common), 'my first thought, when the spider behaved strangely, was that there was a connection'.
Aoide says (in common), 'but then when it bit me I felt alarm'.
Aoide says (in common), 'with the indigo mark, however, I was certain there was a connection'.
The Weaver's lips twitch slightly. 'With the path of the Weaver, there is always sacrifice and pain.'
Aoide nods.
Cordir says, 'Wyldess could have told you this.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'she has alluded to it'.
Aoide says (in common), 'though she prefers things less solemn'.
Aoide says (in common), 'it seems'.
Cordir nods.
Cordir says, 'Though, let her not fool you. Katrana knows well the value of ritae.'.
Aoide nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'is there anything that you would have me do?'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I do not wish to carry this mark lightly.'.
Cordir says quietly, Her tone almost.. curious. 'Have you spoken to the Phantom? Has he admitted his lies?
Aoide shakes her head.
Aoide says (in common), 'I have not'.
Cordir utters the words, 'qcandusahz yaae'. A Magic Mushroom suddenly appears.
Cordir utters the words, 'qcandusahz yaae'. A Magic Mushroom suddenly appears.
Cordir utters the words, 'qcandusahz yaae'. A Magic Mushroom suddenly appears.
Aoide says (in common), 'many thanks, lady'.
Aoide gets a Magic Mushroom.
Aoide gets a Magic Mushroom.
Aoide gets a Magic Mushroom.
Aoide eats a Magic Mushroom.
Cordir nods, frowning.
Aoide says (in common), 'I have not'.
Aoide says (in common), 'the last I spoke to the Phantom, he denied nothing, claiming no lies'.
Aoide says (in common), 'but I have not been able to find him these last many days'.
Cordir arches an eyebrow inquisitively.
Aoide says (in common), 'he is proving...true to his name.'.
Cordir says, 'so.. since you and I spoke... '.
Cordir says, 'you have talked to him?'.
Cordir says, 'and he swore the truth of his past words?'.
Aoide says (in common), 'just once, briefly'.
Aoide says (in common), 'his words were that he recanted nothing'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I would ask him more pointedly, coming at the issue many directions to catch him in a falsehood again'.
Aoide says (in common), 'but he has been elusive'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I also asked him about the Nashite spell mind blank'.
Aoide blushes.
Her brow furrows and Her lips tighten to a narrow line of anger.
Aoide says (in common), 'but he claimed no knowledge of it'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I hope I did not over reach'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I feel very ignorant but am compelled to find out more'.
Aoide says (in common), 'but I never wish to bring you displeasure'.
Cordir says, 'Life is a Mystery. Seeking answers is holy.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'my Goddess has bid me keep seeking as well, but encouraged caution'.
Cordir blinks slowly. 'WYLDESS suggests caution?' She chuckles slightly.
Aoide giggles.
Aoide says (in common), 'yes, well'.
Aoide says (in common), 'as she can'.
Cordir nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'what is gaesa?'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I have heard it mentioned'.
Cordir blinks slowly.
Aoide says (in common), 'but never found a satisfactory response'.
Cordir says, 'Geasa are the vows that all Chosen of Fate bound themselves with.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'it is..a sacrifice of some sort?'.
Cordir says, 'I, Myself, bore them.'.
Cordir says, 'They are oaths, unique to each, requiring or forbidding a specific action.'.
Cordir looks thoughtful.
Cordir says, 'Mine... were centered around the Chosen. . . and thus, no longer applicable.'.
Aoide nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'there is a power in vows. Have you felt their lack?'.
The Guardian Spider nods. She says, (in Old-Common) 'Lady, it is past time You revisited Geasa.'
Cordir looks at Guardian, surprised.
Cordir says, 'I stand admonished.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I assume there are three, considering the power in the number'.
Cordir nods.
Cordir says, 'Though My Shadow and My brother, Saran, had nine.'.
Cordir says, 'Tirayel took nine as well.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'that is quite a few'.
Aoide says (in common), 'how did they choose? did you choose them?'.
Cordir says, 'I do not choose Geasa.'.
Cordir says, 'I have advised some, when they had difficulty choosing.'.
Cordir says, 'Though most learned that Geasa I recommended tended to be a bit more difficult.'.
Aoide laughs.
Aoide says (in common), 'but then perhaps more powerful'.
Cordir says, 'For example, My Shadow never spoke his own name.'.
Cordir says, 'others, never entered midgaard.'.
Cordir says, 'there were literally hundreds of Geasa taken over the years.'.
Cordir says, 'Guardian would weave them into the Tapestry.'.
Aoide nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'thank you'.
Aoide says (in common), 'that fits with what I have heard'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I take it, then, that Guardian sees me taking Geasa'.
Cordir tilts Her head to one side, regarding you. 'Do you feel it appropriate?'
Aoide says (in common), 'I just assumed that was meant. When I heard it, I did not reject the idea.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'though I wonder if I am ready'.
Cordir says, 'It is a powerful thing, to take Geasa.'.
Cordir says, 'They are mighty oaths.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'or to what I would vow. I am not a Chosen...'.
Aoide glances at her hand.
Aoide says (in common), 'or, a Chosen of Fate, rather'.
Cordir says, 'No, you serve the Triat under Wyldess.'.
Cordir says, 'But I think that She would not take offense at Geasa.'.
Cordir says, 'There are others in the world who still hold to their Geasa.'.
Cordir says, 'Wistom. Avatarr. Others.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I wonder also, my lady, if you will be taking Geasa..or if that is again not for me to wonder'.
Cordir says, 'I shall.'.
Aoide sits down and thinks deeply.
Cordir says, 'It isn't .. safe... for the world, otherwise.'.
Cordir smiles ever so slightly.
Aoide says (in common), 'when I sought entrance into the Hunt, the Wyldess gave me a quest'.
Aoide says (in common), 'one portion for each aspect of the Triat'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I suppose that when I do take Geasa, I will follow that example'.
Cordir nods.
Cordir says, 'many follow that path.'.
Cordir says, 'Some chose one prohibition, one required action, and one act of service.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'although perhaps each should be an aspect of the Weaver I would do well to strengthen'.
Aoide says (in common), 'I do not understand what Guardian meant, but I wish to be prepared'.
Cordir says, 'That is for you and the Wyldess to discuss...I do not wish to tread upon Her mantle.'.
Cordir glances over at the spider.
Aoide says (in common), 'I will ask her'.
Cordir says, 'She seems to think that upon your Final Ascension..'.
Cordir says, 'that you will seek Triat Mastery.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'she has alluded that to me as well'.
Aoide says (in common), 'so I have been studying the Mastery'.
Cordir nods.
Cordir says, 'each are unique.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'but am daunted. Then again, I have many Ascensions remaining.'.
Cordir says, 'Many have failed.'.
Cordir says, 'Solaron, beloved of the Wyldess, failed.'.
Cordir says, 'Tranquility, My Handmaiden, failed.'.
Cordir says, 'Gregar, Adso, DarkClaw..'.
Cordir says, 'One saw the quest and dared not undertake Weaver's Sacrifice.'.
Aoide nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'then I am rightfully awed'.
Cordir says, 'Katrana was successful.'.
Cordir says, 'As was I. The Shadow. The Nachtwacht. The Dryad.'.
Cordir says, 'Some others.'.
Cordir says, 'Typhon. MissFit. Ivarr. Pestis.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'that is encouraging'.
Aoide says (in common), 'though there is less shame in failing than never attempting, I would assume'.
Cordir nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'depending on the reason'.
Cordir says, 'indeed.'.
Cordir says, 'Even those who failed, undertook something that most dare not.'.
Aoide nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'I have much to consider'.
Cordir nods.
Cordir says, 'shall I send you back?'.
Aoide says (in common), 'would you care to see the artifacts I discovered, my lady? Or would they be better for another time?'.
Cordir looks wary.
Cordir shakes Her head.
Aoide nods.
Cordir says, 'I... I dare not.'.
Aoide says (in common), 'then I will continue my search'.
Cordir nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'thank you for helping explain this'.
Aoide turns her hand palm up.
You realize that the tattoo has moved from your palm, to the pulse-point at your wrist.
Aoide blinks.
Aoide touches her wrist carefully with just a single finger.
The skin feels warm.
Aoide says (in common), 'yes, lady, I have much to consider'.
Cordir nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'I will do it best out, experiencing perhaps'.
Aoide says (in common), 'something...mindless'.
Cordir says, 'something wyld.'.
Aoide laughs.
Aoide nods.
Aoide disappears in a puff of smoke.