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Part 10: The song of the stones
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Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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The remainder of the night passes without incident as the group take
turns on watch aided by the sharp senses of Hunter and Berd.
The stars blaze overhead, the night sky a myriad points of gleaming
light. The fire burns lower and the air becomes chill as a thick
frost starts to settle in the hour before dawn. There is a
general shuffling of bodies towards the shrunken fire, and blankets and
sleeping bags are pulled tighter around bodies.
The eastern sky starts to pale, shading to amethyst so pale that it could almost be called white.
Hunter stirs from sleep and his ears prick up as the sounds of wolves
reach the camp from somewhere away across the rolling plains. His
people are greeting the new day as they have always done.
The sun edges above the horizon, and golden light floods across the
land, striking across the stones of the circle. Within moments a
vibration spreads through the ground, and the energy starts to pulse
through the stones as it starts to build once more towards a climactic
unleashing of forces.
In the centre of the circle, the portal starts to form once again...
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali stirs before the stones spark into life, woken by Hunter.
She sits up and yawns hugely, then shudders, wrapping the battered
blanket tighter around her. She rises and leaves the blanket
behind, though. She knew there were better ways to get warm then
huddling under a blanket.
Then the stones, or the power they contained, begins to surface. She
shakes her head. What a way to start the day. She
approaches Jack's sleeping form with silent steps and crouches down
beside his head. She smiles at the slack expression and then touches
his shoulder and shakes him.
"Morning sunshine... your friends are saying hello" she says to him, prepared to repeat herself once he is fully roused.
Meanwhile, Lazarus gets a nice, cold, wet snout to the neck as Hunter wakes his Choasite friend.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Cyan muzzily looks around as Berd sticks his tongue in her ear.
"Ahh...get away, filthy beast..." Slowly sitting up, she runs
fingers through her now-rioutous mane of hair, and looks at the
stones. "Oh, by the Timeless Void. Do we get no rest?"
Looking around the dead fire, she gives Kalika a woozy smile.
"One thing I dislike about the forest is the uncomfortable ground...it
steals the heat from me. Or perhaps that is someone else?" she
asks, staring at Berd, who looks innocent. With a flick of a
finger, Cyan shoos a fingerlength wolf spider from her bedroll, then
slowly stands. "Away with you, little sister. I need to
shake this out."
Staring at the stones, she taps her finger on her lips. "Again,"
she whispers, picking up the cube, studying the cube, as well as the
stones, amber eyes considering.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack smiles up at Kali rubbing at his eyes with one hand “Morning
beautiful.” He says lazily, then he feels the power of the stones and
lurches to a sitting position struggling to free himself from the
accursed possessed bag of doom. Finally he stands up free of it after
flailing around with it for precious seconds, he hurls the bag at the
ground. He looks to the stones eyes filled with awe and curiosity “Yes
they are singing early this morning. Would one of you keep an eye on me
while I talk to them again for a second?”
Without waiting for a response Jack tentatively reaches out to the stone with his mind, not moving any closer.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus' eyes pop open as the feels the cold nose of the large wolf
press against his neck. His bleary gaze focuses on the source of
his experience and he chuckles, "now that's the most affection I've
gotten in years."
Pushing his blanket away, he stretches his arms and legs, and then slowly sits up, blowing a strand of hair out of his face.
Pulling his knees up to his chest, Lazarus blinks a few times trying to
get his eyes used to being awake, and holds one of his hands, palm
outwards, towards Hunter. "Thanks for the wakeup, pal. I
don't suppose you've got coffee ready too?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali laughs. Apparently Jack had the charm on 24/7. She steps back and
watches him struggle with his bag, mirth in her eyes. While this goes
on, she hears Cyan and Lazarus stir as well.
"I know exactly how you feel... and then this of all wake up calls..." she says to Cyan, motioning to the stones.
She returns her attention to Jack and nods, eyes serious once again.
"Of course... do what you must, but if you start that weird convulsing
like last time I'm not going to let you ride it out" she warns,
watching the stones warily "Whenever you are ready..." she says to him
with a small, more private smile.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Hunter
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The large wolf regards Lazarus with shining eyes. A low, coughing
growl is the answer to Lazarus's affection comment and a sharp shake of
the head, a silent No answer the inquiry for coffee.
Instead the great wolf points his nose towards the stones with a
rumbling growl, hackles partly raised. Whatever is going on, Hunter
does not like it.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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He smiles back slightly and gives a nod as he focuses on the stones
“What cha’ gonna do? No handy trees to throw me up against Lalai”
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus sighs, "I didn't think so. No worries, Iaret never made coffee for me in the morning either."
As the big wolf motions towards the stones, his hackles rising from his
back, whatever sleepiness was left washes away from Lazarus'
face. Grabbing the scimitar from his gear, he rises to his feet
in one fluid motion, one corner of his mouth twitching in the beginning
of a snarl, an expression perhaps more appropriate for Kali's companion.
"For Chrissake! It's too early in the morning for this sort of thing!"
Catching the end of Kali and Jack's conversation, his eyes flick
towards the other blond man in the group. "If you get all twitchy
again, I'm guessing that between Kali and I we might be able to toss
you into the trees from here. And if something unfriendly comes
through that gate, and you're unconsious, it's going to make defending
ourselves all the more difficult."
"In other words," he growls, "be careful and don't get too busy making friends with the stones."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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The energy level builds and builds, just as it did the day
before. The pulsing increases in frequency and intensity, and the
cube starts to pulse in harmony with the stones.
As before the column of raw force builds in the centre, spreading to
become a revolving cage of light, and eventually develops into a
gateway. This time though it does not show the deserts of Bakhu.
This time a desert of black sand lies beyond the gate, shimmering
beneath a sky which is a startling tourquoise in colour. The sun
which hangs in that sky is a dull reddish orange in colour and appears
sullen, vast and angry.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"And there we go," Cyan says quietly, looking through the portal.
She grins at the others. "Shall we see if Hunter can pick up the
trail? I suspect he can...just as I suspect that this place, if
not reflected in that world, is the key." She waves at the
stones. "They say in some worlds that all roads lead to
Amber. Well, it seems all roads lead FROM here, for now."
Quietly, she gathers her pack and steps towards the portal, amythest eyes gleaming with a febrile excitement.
Berd quickly scrambles to his feet and flits through the air, landing on her pack.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack winces on contact but appears to drop contact just as
quick, He nods to Kali looking serious “No difference, just more
powerful and growing in intensity.” He kneels down and quickly rolls up
the sleeping bag tying it to his pack and throwing the pack over his
shoulder. He stands back up with his short staff in his hand, pulling
it apart just enough to make certain that the blade is there. He
immediately pushes it back together and says “What’s the
plan?” He looks at each of them in turn questioningly.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"We walk through," Cyan states as if it were obvious. Topaz eyes
flash in the shimmering light from the portal as she stares into
it. "Hunter can attempt to pick up the trail on the other
side. It would be very easy to return here, if necessary - I am
sure Kendall or myself could easily construct a palanquet for this place."
She grins. Enough talk...now they can DO something!
"Well? Are you coming?
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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When Jack mentions the lack of a tree, Kali laughs "There's always the ground" she suggests with a wink.
Then the others wake, the portal opens, Jack makes fleeting contact,
and it is time to go. Kali frowns at the image in the portal.
"Another hot land" she grumbles, and then turns to retrieve her lighter colored clothing, now dry and stiff.
After neatly folding the clothing, she shakes out her blanket and
places it into her pack. The folded clothing goes on top. After
hoisting the pack and buckling on her sword, Kali is ready to go.
She looks over at Hunter, who returns to her side.
"See you on the other side" she says to the others and with a final
smile for Jack, she leaps through the portal, Hunter at her side.
Like before, she lands in a fluid roll and comes up in a defensive
position with her hand on her sword hilt. Hunter is at her side,
bristling with raised hackles and long fangs. She looks around,
searching for signs of possible attackers waiting for the others to
join her.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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“Promises, promises” Jack shoots back with a smile at Kali’s mention of “There’s always the ground”
Jack flashes a smile back as she goes through the portal and
says “She’s crazy. Both of them are crazy.” then smiles broader as he
walks up and calmly steps through the portal himself. Looking
around even before he steps through it prepared for the worst.
Once he is on the other side he relaxes and lets his psyche take in his
surroundings.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Humming to herself, Cyan happily walks through beside Kalika.
Berd sits on her shoulder, glancing around with his own glittering eyes
as her emerald gaze takes in the area. One hand stays on
Kirilinde, casually and easily.
"I wonder if these natives will have any myths or legends of the
gates?" she asks Jack, stepping through as well, one of her eyebrows
cocked.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus watches the two women and their companions go through the gate followed by Jack.
"So much for morning coffee," he grumbles, sitting down to pull on
socks, boots and vambraces. Shoving the blanket roughly into his
pack, he straps his scabbard and harness onto his back, followed
hurriedly by this backpack. Finally he stamps the remains of the
fire out and covers it with dirt.
Still holding the drawn scimitar Lazarus stalks warily through the
gateway into the strange desert. "I don't suppose there's a diner
anywhere near here..."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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One by one the group step through the gate, each in his or her own manner...
... and out the other side, onto black sand that crunches
underfoot. The orange sun hangs, bloated, in the turquoise
sky. There are whisps of high, thin cloud, and the air is
chilly. A slight breeze stirs the sand, and at this closer range
it is clear that there is a circular structure of some sort nearby.
A ring of slabs lays, partially hidden in the sand and composed of a
black stone that blends in with that sand, surrounds the gate. It
is perhaps one hundred feet across, a circular pavement some ten feet
wide, composed of polished, regular flagstones.
Off to one side, two or three miles away, stands a cluster of odd-looking towers and buildings...
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Replacing his scimitar in its sheath, Lazarus crouches down to gather a
bit of the sand in one hand, slowly letting it filter between his
fingers. The other hand runs absently over the smooth stones
embedded in the dark sand as his eyes focus on a point seemingly far
beyond the slabs.
"So, any guesses about what we do now? Into that town ahead?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali relaxes when no immediate threat presents itself she shivers slightly in the cool air, but a pleased smile is on her lips.
"Nice weather!" she breathes, happy with the fact that this place is
not as hot as it looked through the portal. When Jack crosses through
she asks "Have a nice trip?"
Kalithen gazes out across the plain and yawns, her joints popping as she stretches.
"Sure!" she answers Lazarus "I wonder what this place is called?" she muses out loud, more to herself than to anyone else.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"I would say that heading to the town might be a good start," Cyan
says, staring around at the black plain. Her obsidian eyes match
the sand as she blinks, staring out into the distance at the
buildings. Shouldering her pack, she begins to walk across the
sand towards the town. "We can come back and look at this
later. Kalika, does Hunter pick up any scent?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares bends and runs a hand across the ground. "I wouldn't want to
trust our horses on this stuff. I'll send them home, we can
always get more later if we need them." He turns back towards the
portal and stands quietly for a little while, then returns his
attention to his immediate surroundings.
"The town, if such it is, could be our best bet."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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“Yes.” Jack answers Kali flashing her a wolfish grin “Did you miss me?” The grin melts into a playful smile.
He glances at Lazarus with a smirk, “Why don’t you go ask the neighbors
for some coffee?” And points to the towers in the distance as he walks
over to the slabs. Staring at them he says “Myths aren’t myths if they
are real Cyan dear.” He focuses on the slabs, comparing them to their
counterpart on the other side of the portal.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack looks over at Lazarus after staring at the stones
“Almost the same. . .Why would you go through all of this trouble to
make these portals only to have the key a recorder for gates to the
same places?” His brow is furrowed and he looks uncertain at the
question.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares looks about at Jack's words. "Maybe the cube is nothing to
do with the stones and the gates. It could just be that two
groups found methods of doing things that happen to affect each other."
"Or maybe the cube was designed by the gate builders, to enable
explorers to find their way home quickly. Move through Shadow to
any place, and find your way back to any place you've already visited,
instantly. The cube allows travel without having to find and use
a gate."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack looks at Ares, “We could find out if the Cube is a key by removing
the cube from the vicinity of the slabs and seeing if the portal
closes, then bring it back and seeing if it opens.” He shakes his head
“I am sorry, I will not ask you to waste time with my experiments.”
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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"Well, we know already that the other gate didn't open until we brought
the cube close to it. What I'm saying is that it could be just
coincidence that the cube works like that. It might not be the
main function. You can throw a rock through a window, but the
rock was not actually designed for opening windows."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus shrugs, his eyes focussing on the collection of towers and
buildings in the distance. "Well," he begins, a small plume of
chilled air rising with his words, "in either case, we also need to
know why it is that whoever carried the cube came here. The best
place to do that may be in town."
"And," he continues looking back at Jack with a small grin, "if it
happens that they have a place where we can get coffee, well so much
the better."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack gives you all his best mischievous smirk. “Well
then what are you doing standing around jabbering! I swear you guys
Just talk to much, especially Ares there. If that’s not bad enough I
can tell with Lazarus, there will be a Daemon to pay until we get him
his morning coffee.” As Jack talks he moves over to Kali placing his
hand lightly on hers for brief a moment. “Kali if you and Hunter will
do us the honor and see if the sent can be found?” He gives he a warm
smile, despite the chill.
With a wink he turns and starts walking towards the towers.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"About time," Cyan grumbles. "Talktalktalktalktalk. I
swear." She starts out following Jack. "I happen to know
the difference between myth and legend. As I said, myths and
legends about the stones. Legend would be 'Once in a blue moon,
the stones create a portal to heaven'. A myth would be 'Once in a
blue moon, the stones give the power of immortality to someone who
stands within'." She pauses. "At least, I hope that would
be a myth about the stones," the Bard concludes, emerald eyes
shading over in worry.
Berd snores loudly.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack stops and looks at Cyan with a look of pure
amazement. “A dislike of talk coming from a Bard whose life is the
wiles of words? Tsk tsk tsk. . .” Jack shakes his head and starts
walking again. “I shall tell you what the difference is. The differenth
is that you thongs are quite legendary Myth Thian!” Jack says with a
lisp and a straight face while looking ahead to the towers, then he
begins whistle a tune quietly.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"My masters were always despairing of my lack of patience.
My...thongs? Oh, songs! Thank you, Jack," Cyan says,
smiling slightly and obviously not getting ALL of the joke, while Berd
nearly falls off her shoulder hissing. "What is WRONG with you?"
There's a short pause while Berd clambers back up to Cyan's
shoulder. Then the bard turns red, then white, and her head snaps
around, diamond eyes fixing on Jack. For a long moment she walks
in silence, and then Berd wraps his tail around her neck, lightly, and
she coughs.
"Very clever, Jack," she says quietly. "Not, of course, the sort
of humour I expected, though." Then she laughs, the laughter
slowly growing as she picks up the pace into a quicker stride, amythest
eyes shining brilliantly.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack rolls his eyes, “That’s figures the only thing that was not meant to be myth construed was. . .I just knew that was going to happen, keep you mind out of the gutter Berd.” he says as keeps pace with Cyan
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Cyan sighs, still smiling. "Not to concern yourself, Jack,
whether you meant it or not. As a minstrel and bard, I often find
myself in somewhat less than reputable places...which seem to have
rubbed off on Berd." She gives the dragon a hard, sapphire
glare. He glances back, unconcerned, then goes to sleep.
A quick look to Jack, then. "I am not particularly disturb.
It was an amusing play on words, in many different ways, even if you
DIDN'T mean the comment about my...'songs'."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus, who up until the song/thong discussion had been trudging
quietly through the sand behind Cyan and Jack, sighs loudly in disgust.
"That's it. I don't think I can take another episode of Sweet
Valley High this early in the morning. I'm going to go help
Hunter with the tracking or throw myself into quicksand... One or the
other."
Closing his eyes, his body begins to shimmer, his form blurring for a
moment, drawing closer to the ground. A second later his shape
begins to resolidify until a large black jaguar sits in his
place. Yawning once to reveal a set of large, pointy teeth, the
cat blinks twice and then pads off ahead of the group, his inky form
quickly blending in with the dark sand.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Cyan laughes even more at the comment from Lazarus. "You're a crabby one." Sweet Valley High?
She glances at Jack. "Does he think we are flirting with each
other? Or is he simply unused to travelling with companions?"
She shrugs. Cyan has an easy way with men and women alike - easy
when it comes to speaking with them, not in other ways. People
have often misconstrued that to mean something else.
Most of the time, in a far worse fashion than Lazarus.
Well, far worse for THEM.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack shrugs looking between Laz and Cyan “I think it’s
the coffee issue rearing it’s ugly black head again. ” He smiles giving
his knowing smirk “Trust me, you’ll know when I’m flirting. Anyway I
wasn’t flirting, were you flirting?” he stops in his tracks looking
surprised. “I do believe Lazarus is jealous! I’m sorry, I didn’t know
he had feelings for you Cyan.”
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"I had not noticed," Cyan laughs. "I think I would have had we
been doing that..." A faint frown crosses her face. "As for
Lazarus, I highly doubt it. His gaze is directed elsewhere.
No, it is probably this...coffee issue, you speak of." Her topaz
eyes glitter as she follows the panther over the sand for a moment
before losing sight of it, then she shrugs.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack watches where Lazarus disappeared, his playful look turning
thoughtful. Had his little joke been closer to the truth than he had
thought. He looks from Laz over to Kali thoughtfully. Turning to the
trail he continues on in silence for a little while
“Cyan, Might I have a word with Berd if it is alright with the both of
you?” He asks softly, somewhat subdued compaired to his normal tones.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Cyan shrugs. "You should ask Berd, rather than myself,
Jack. I can understand how you might think otherwise...trust me."
Berd rolls his head over and stares at Jack upside down. Then,
with a sigh, he walks down Cyan's outstretched arm as they continue,
sitting on the end of her hand.
It looks as though Cyan could hold him there for quite a while.
Every now and then she gives him an amused look with her ruby eyes.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Berd
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Berd stares at Jack with his shimmering, dancing eyes.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack looks at the little drake as he moves towards the town.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Berd
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Berds eyes seem to swirl as he looks at Jack. The corners of his mouth slide upwards in a reptilian grin.
The dragon seems suddenly serious.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack stumbles for a second from watching Berd and not where he’s going, but quicly rights himself and continues.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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When asked if she missed him, Kali gives Jack a bright smile "How could I not?" she replied with a laugh, her eyes dancing.
Soon her attention is taken by Hunter, who is eager to get on the
trail. He begins to sniff the sand and looks up at Kali mournfully, and
then sneezes heavily. Giggling, Kali shakes her head at the wolf's
antics. He then lopes off in search of their scent. Kali
watches him go, a distant look in her eyes. It was then that Jack
touched her hand lightly. She started, clearly surprised and a flush
rose to her face.
"Sorry" she apologizes "that startled me" she offers a weak smile and
then falls into step behind Jack and Cyan, still distracted.
Lazarus takes off and a geniune smile comes to her face. She is pleased
that the Chaos Lord is going Hunter. The wolf really liked the man, and
she didn't know if she could stand to relive the confusion, loneliness,
and rejection of her own youth. But it appeared Laz liked the wolf as
well and the tenuous bonds of friendship were forming. Kali's
smile broadened. As much as she hated to admit it, Hunter was in need
of a friend other than herself.
When Jack looks back at Kali she is following, a pleased, private smile
on her face. Her eyes are distracted, her mind is obviously
elsewhere. Her heavy silver braids whip about her in the wind,
but the cold does not appear to bother her. As Jack begins his
conversation with Berd, Kali sighs and her gaze falls to the
ground. She continues walking along, head bowed following in the
footsteps of Jack and Cyan.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Berd
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Berd scratches himself, then looks back at Jack.
Berd's eyes narrow.
For a moment longer he holds Jack's gaze, then grins toothily.
OOC - Jack - check your post. [] always cuts off private
conversations. :) That's why I use () and {}. :)
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack suddenly stick his tongue out at the dragon and says “Spilled cup
enigma will show you thump on head.” Then smiles at the dragon. “Thanks
Berd.”
He let’s his stride fall back until he is walking next to Kali “Sorry,
didn’t mean to startle you earlier.” He gives her a sheepish smile.
“Penny for your thoughts?” he asks
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali looks up at Jack and smiles as the faraway look in her eyes fades.
"It's ok... you didn't mean to. I was just distracted" she smiles good
naturedly and then looks out across the sandy plains and the buildings
they are slowly approaching.
"I was worried that Lazarus would not accept Hunter as a friend" it
sounds as if she was going to say more, but she pulled herself up short
and looks apologetically up at Jack "It's not easy to put to words...
plus the tracking is not going well. Hunter isn't getting anything"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Hunter
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When the black panther joins the tracking effort, Hunter bounds up to
it and, inhaling the scent of Lazarus joyfully, yips in
excitement. Another friend to play with!! The wolf's excitement
and exuberance is obvious as he continues his tracking efforts,
reporting his dismal findings to his mistress faithfully.
Finally, the large alpha male gives up the search, knowing it to be
fruitless, and runs full speed towards Lazarus, his eyes sparkling with
playfullness. The huge wolf approaches with large bounding steps, and
looks intent on bowling the jungle cat over. It is obvious he wishes to
romp around and play while Lazarus is still able to.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack smiles at her, it’s a warm smile but it’s somehow different. No
intent or mischievousness behind it, simply the smile of a friend. He
leans close and whispers to her for several moments.
He gives her a nod still wearing the same friendly smile, tinged with something a little sad he walks beside her.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali's eyes widen as Jack whispers in her ear and she begins to
chuckle. Motioning for Jack to stay close, she whispers back in his
ear, her lips lightly touching his skin.
She then pulls back, a devilish grin on her face.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Surprise registers on Jacks face as Kali starts to
whisper to him. As she finishes, what ever she said really took him by
surprise as he half misses a step and gives a small choking cough.
He looks at her through wide eyes and confused smile
quickly hidden behind his knowing smirk. “Why Miss Wolfblade, you do
make it difficult for a man to behave himself in a gentlemanly
fashion.” He says softly to her in a playful mocking tone. “I must say
I admire that quality in you.” and he waggles his eyebrows at her as he
pulls the hood of his cloak up against the cold, shivering a little.
“Do you think you could spar with me tonight and maybe make certain I
know how to use this?” he asks holding up the walking stick still
wearing the smirk.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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The group trudge across the fine black sand towards the city, everybody
except Hunter and Lazarus making hard going of it. Berd, of
course, finds the journey entirely effortless too.
Nearer, the towers resolve themselves into individual structures with
an almost glasslike surface. They are tall and narrow, with an
organic apperance, no straight lines or sharp angles... They are
narrower in one direction than the other, like the fins of some marine
creature, and the longer faces all run parallel to the wind direction.
All of the doors and windows in the structures seem to be on the leeward ends of them.
As the group get closer, some... people(?) step out of the door of the
nearest tower. Yes, they must be people, they are wearing
clothing of a sort. They stand some eight feet tall, whip thin,
with large flat feet. Bulging black and yellow patterned eyes
look out from narrow, beaked faces, and their skin is covered with blue
or green patches and mottles. They are clad in strange robe-like
clothes, composed of hundreds of strips of gauzy fabric, in as many
different colours, attached to a tight fitting vest type garment.
The strips flail about in the cold breeze, giving the creatures an almost ethereal appearance.
They stop in their tracks as the group of strangers approaches, yellow
and black eyes staring, unblinking, at the newcomers, and at the
shimmering portal beyond...
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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“Looks like play time is over.” Jack says to Kali neither speeding his
pace nor slowing it. “It’s either that or the neighbors kids are coming
out to play also.” He smiles a friendly smile at them. Though he does
not know how it will be taken since they have beaks, still it makes him
feel better.
“Any clever ideas people?” he asks looking ahead at them
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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As Hunter bounds up to Lazarus, the big cat lets the wolf take in his
scent, a feline smile growing on his muzzle and then joins Hunter in
the tracking effort, his nostrils flaring as he searches for any
interesting scents.
Well I hope Hunter is finding something, because I'm...
The thought is interrupted as Lazarus catches sight of the charging wolf.
Hehe, guess I'm not the only one striking out here.
Sitting back on his haunches, Lazarus watches the wolf barrel towards
him, his inky tale curling around and idly flicking a few grains of
sand into the air. At the last second Lazarus darts out of the
way of Hunter's charge and spinning with liquid feline grace he leaps
onto the wolf as it passes by, tackling him into the side of one of the
dark dunes.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali smiles, pleased, when she sees Jack's response to her little
relevation. They continue to trudge through the sands and she
perks up at the mention of sparrring.
"I'd be more than happy to oblige..." she eyes the staff warilly "You
just might give me a run for my money" she says, proud to use a saying
from her friend Johnee that she clearly understod.
More trudging later....
"Well approaching them with no weapons drawn to see if we speak a common language would be a good start..." she quips.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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Closer the creatures look even stranger, their eyes can be seen to be
solid and immobile. No iris or pupil, just yellow and black orbs
bulging slightly from their sockets and making it look almost as if
each of the people has two huge wasps sitting upon his (her? its?) face.
They stand, waiting patiently for the group to approach.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"I would say that 'hello' would be a good start," Cyan says, moving
foward with her hands out and open, carefully away from her weapons and
not pointed at any of the creatures.
"Good morning," she calls out, amber eyes shining brightly. Berd yawns.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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One of the creatures raises its hands before its face, palms upwards
and cupped. Its head bows slightly and it blows into its hands,
then extends them towards Cyan and starts to speak in oddly rhythmed
Thari, "Much greetings to travellers we give. The air my people breathe I offer to you. To our home you are welcome."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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“That’s the trouble with strange cultures” Jack thinks to himself “You
never know what may be a faux pas. The little bard would probably be
better at this, but heck all I can do is the best I can and hope I
don’t make our job harder. Hopefully eloquence will stand in the face
of ignorance. ”
Jack steps forward caring himself with an air of reverence cups his
hands as he had seen done. He breaths in and looks back at the speaker
then says, “As air is breath and breath is life, your gracious offer is
held twice as high in our esteem. For your kindness we give many
thanks.” he bows a shallow bow to the speaker.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kalib remains standing next to Jack, a neutral look on her face and her
hands clasped loosely in front of her. After Jack speaks, she looks at
him, her eyes reading and searching his face. Then she smiles and
shakes her head slightly.
Hunter lopes up, panting from her romp and sits down next to Kali, and
watches the strange new people. His nostrils flare as he takes in
their scent... as does those of his mistress.
She feels as if she should say something, but nothing she could think
of watche dthe eloquence of Jack's words, so she remained quiet for the
moment being.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Cyan notes Jack's answer, and steps back slightly to allow him to speak. Nothing like confusing people by having too many answers, she thinks, grinning at the thought.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Dodging away from the wolf after his tackle, Lazarus looks back to see Hunter loping back towards the group.
Didn't realize wolves were such a touchy lot. Hope I haven't hurt his feelings too - the thought ends abruptly as he notices Jack and the others gathered in front of the group of locals.
Lazarus pads up softly next to Jack, following Hunter to the group, arriving just in time to hear Jack make his greetings.
Not bad... seems like he's got some diplomatic training...
As he watches the exchange between the jaciu and the natives, Lazarus sits back on his haunches and unconsciously begins washing a paw.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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"The Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an welcome to this
place all travellers. Our food you may eat of, our water drink
of, our homes you may shelter within." it turns to its right and extends one hand in a fluid gesture, indicating the towers.
Then it faces Jack once more, hands moving through an intricate array of motions, postures and positions as it speaks, "From the Gate of Singing Stones you have come? Your kind we have seen before."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares studies these new creatures, the Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an?
He has seen nothing like them in his travels. The hand gestures
he had at first taken to be a part of some formal greeting, but then
the spokesperson had continued to use them in a more conversational
manner, asking about the visitors' origins.
Then he realises what was said, Our sort have been here before!
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack smiles, nods and walks in the indicated direction, reaching out
for Kali’s hand as he does so. All of this as if he has not a care in
the world. “Again we thank you. Yes, we came from the stones. May I ask
when was the last time you have seen anyone like us?”
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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When Lazarus returns to the group with Hunter, Kali smiles at the
panther, happy that Hunter has been accepted with the Chaos Lord.
At her side, the wolf's tongue lolls as he pants heavily. When his new
friend rejoins them, he detaches himself for Kali's side and sits
besides Laz, a look of welcome in his eyes as Laz gets the equivalent
of a lupine grin.
Meanwhile, Kali herself falls into step besides Jack. When he
reaches for her hand, she takes his comfortably, her callused fingers
lightly race across his own hand and fingers before settling
down. She was feeling for calluses on his hands.. the sign of a
swordsman, but now was content to hold his hand and observe. She
looks up at him with a quick smile.. and then to the being, interested
in its answer.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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The creature looks at Jack and Kalika, as if considering something,
then claps its hands twice, about two seconds apart. Afterwards
it starts speaking again, its hands once more performing their
intricate dance. "Twice I clapped, one anji apart. Two thousand anji one apuri make. Nine thousand apuri it is since one of your kind was here."
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“Hmmm.” Jack ponders yet even as he quickly calculates it in his head,
he feels uncertainly that time may hold little meaning. “Can you tell
me what the last one of us that came through here looked like?” Jack
gives Kali’s hand a gentle squeeze with his un-callused hand.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kali looks around, taking in the landscape and the architecture of the
land. She wondered if they have any flowers, and if so what they
looked like.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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The spokesperson performs an intricate series of motions which ends with both hands sweeping towards the nearest building, "Eating soon we are, will you with us eat? Talk more we may. Tales we would hear."
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack stops and looks around as if distracted, then looks
back at the others questioningly and says “ This isn’t my place to say,
I’m just the extra baggage you picked up.” Idly with his free hand he
reaches down and scratches Lazarus behind the ear for a brief second.
The lets his hand fall back to his side waiting for the others to
choose. His other hand still holding Kali’s.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan pauses, and looks at Jack. Her expression clearly says, Well, go on!
One thing you DON'T do when talking with a group of strangers is switch
speakers in mid-discussion. Some cultures may even consider it an
offense.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack looks back at the native and smiles “Thank you we
accept your hospitality.” Then continues walking in the indicated
direction. After all they needed to stay long enough to find out if the
woman had been through here.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus remains seated next to Jack as the man scratches behind his
ear, shooting Hunter a look of feline disgust, his tail twitching.
I wonder if he finds this as annoying as I do...
Casually lifting a paw, he extends one razorsharp claw and runs it down
the length of one leg of Jack's pants, shearing open the cloth.
Yawning, he stretches and pads ahead of the group, a satisfied look on
his dark muzzle.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan glances at the Panther, catching the sound of cloth tearing and
movement out of the corner of her eye. Berd warbles a bit of
laughter, but the bard's amber eyes narrow in annoyance. We are in the midst of diplomatic relations, and he acts like a seven year old.
She briefly considers kicking the cat, but isn't certain the reaction
she would get would be any better, or foster any better feelings in
their hosts. Likely not...he has a serious temper.
With a shrug, she continues, hoping that this Lazarus will remember to act his age.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
And so it was that Jack strides across the sands towards
the indicated buildings entrance. Seemingly totally unaware that his
panther slashed pants leg is flapping in the cool gusts like a slack
sail in the wind.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an show no surprise that animals enter the
building to share the meal, perhaps they don't recognise Berd, Hunter
and Lazarus as animals, after all their own appearance is very
dissimilar to that of the more humanoid members of the group, they may
see the animals as just more strange visitors...
Within the building, beyond a heavy curtain in the doorway, is a large
oval room with channels cut in the walls where clear water flows down
to basins just above floor level. Globes of crystal are suspended
from the ceiling, which is about fifteen feet above floor level, and
cast a yellowish luminance through the room.
At the far end of this chamber is a circular hole in the floor, some
ten feet in diameter, with the top of a spiral staircase just visible
within.
There are several circular tables in the room, set with plates of some
black material, and surrounded by numerous cushions, and the
Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an spokesperson indicates that the guests
should seat themselves.
Once they have, a group of Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an use goblets of
the same black substance as the plates, rigid, but lighter than metal
or stone, to scoop water from the basins and place it before the guests.
Then all of the Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an serve themselves with water
and seat themselves gracefully upon the remaining cushions. They
bow their heads, spreading their hands palms-down on the tables, and
sitting in total silence. After a few moments, they sit upright
again. There are sounds of movement, and more of the
Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an appear from the opening in the floor bearing
platters of what seems to be a dark reddish-purple meat, tuber-like
vegetables, and several somethings that looks suspiciously like
cat-sized spiders garnished with mushrooms...
One platter of each type is placed on each table in the chamber, and
the servers vanish back into the basement. The spokesperson moves
his hands in a gesture of presentation, "Served the food is. Eat you may, as you wish."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Cyan gives him a little bow, and looks at the food. She bends her
head in a brief prayer - this is a formal dinner, after all.
Picking up her 'goblet', she raises it in appreciation to their
hosts. "Thank you. I am honoured."
Then, not seeing any utensils (correct me if I'm wrong), she tears off
one of the legs of the cat-sized spiders and checks to see if there is
anthing within it that is consumable. Presumably - otherwise they
would have, most likely, been 'legged' first.
If there are utensils, she uses them instead.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares takes some of the meat, and one of the tubers. Somehow he
can't bring himself to try any of the spider. He watches in sick
fascination as Cyan chews on a leg.
"What does it taste like?" he asks.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Spider," Cyan says, glancing over at him. "They lose some of
their taste when they get bigger, though." Her topaz eyes flash
with amusement. "I've eaten bigger, but it's usually a lot less
tasty than this. This is very good." She bows, from a
seated position, to her host.
Berd ignores the spiders, and sniffs the platters of meat,
delicately. He wants to determine if this is something he'd eat.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack sits down letting go of Kali’s hand He fills the
plate on one side of him with meat, tubers and a couple of pieces of
spider just in case. Then nods his head towards the panther with all
due seriousness “Bon appetite Lazarus.” Moving the plate and glass
closer to the edge so it’s easier for the cat to make due with. He
repeats the process asking Kali “Does hunter prefer the table or the
floor?”
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali walks along side Jack silently. At one point she pales
considerably, and her eyes look troubled, but the look passes with time
as they continue following the ambassador to this new world. She
walks distractedly, for once her sharp eyes are not roaming around
searching their surroundings and gauging their "hosts." Hunter
takes up this duty instead, her nostrils flaring as he sniffs the
breezes and looks around waiting patiently to pass the information he
gathered to his mistress.
When Lazarus shreds open Jack's pant leg the wolf makes a snort/grumble
sound like a snort of laughter. Hunter bounds forward and falls
into step alongside the panther, approval shining in the feral
eyes. Hunter likes his new friend.
By the time they are led into the grand dining room Kali is exhausted. She sits heavily and smiles up weakly at Jack.
"This is where I can learn from you lalai" she says
quietly in a tired voice. At the question about Hunter's food she
smiles at him, her appreciation showing obviously in her yellow eyes.
"On the floor please..." she reaches over (regardless of if there are
utensils or not) and relieves a spider of its leg with a deft twist of
her hand and adds it to Hunter's plate "There you go my friend" she
says to the wolf, knowing he will enjoy chewing on the hard leg. She
then claims her own plate and loads it up with meat, tubers, and spider
legs. Before eating she touches Jack's arm lightly "Thank you for
your help" she says in a heartfelt manner.
Kali then turns her attention to her food and snaps a spider leg open
and sucks the meat out just as one would suck the marrow from a bone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack smiles at kali warmly “We teach and help each other.”
He reaches out and gives her hand a brief squeeze. Then turns to
placing a few small items on his own plate. Looking over at their host
he quickly realizes just how adept those beaks of theirs are for
shelling the chitin of the spider. “Like a parrot shelling a nut.” He
thinks surprising himself, because before that moment he remembered
nothing about parrots. He watches for a reaction between the natives
towards those in the group that did not bow their heads in prayer.
Jack looks to their host as he toys with the food on his
plate, not really eating yet.. “They call me Jack,” He nods in a light
bow “May I have the honor of your name?”
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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The creature bows from the waist, bringing it's hands together in an
attitude of prayer, before extending them as if handing something over, "Jack? A name as strange as yourself it is. Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an am I called." One hand sweeps out to encompass the rest of the room, "Senior, among this group, am I."
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali almost chokes on her spider leg when their host says his/her
name. There was no way in hell she was going to be able to say
that long mess of a name. She clears her throat and smiles at
their hosts.
"I am Kalika Wolfblade" she says with a quick dip of her silver haired head "Thank you for sharing your home with us"
That being the extend of her courtier ability and the moment of
embarrasment passed, she returns to gnawing on the spider leg, eager to
get to the tender, well spiced meat within.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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“Honorable one,” Jack says not being able to
pronounce his whole name so quickly, “You have been so kind I
hate to impose, yet we need your assistance with something of no small
importance. My companions know of a woman who is a fellow
traveler of the gates that has fallen on grave times. Due to
complications she is beyond our ability to assist. So we have to seek
out her people, you understand. They may be able to do something for
her. It is of vital importance that we know what the last few travelers
that came through you land and used the gate looked like, so we can
follow her trail back to her lands and her people. Can you tell us of
these people?” Jack finishes and bows looking solemn.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan grins slightly, and runs the name over in her head, emerald eyes
glittering with amusement. A bit of practice, she thinks, and she
should be able to get the whole thing down, tonals and all.
Practice. She may not be able to find water in a desert, or light
a fire with a couple of branches and some string, but this sort of
thing is her bread and butter.
Leaning back, she listens carefully to what Jack has to say. Good
enough, thus far. Likely better than she could have done.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an bows it's head in thought, then speaks
slowly and carefully, hands once more gesturing broadly, "Eight hundred and twenty four thousand seven hundred and twelve anpuri have I lived, and in that time, only one other stranger has this way passed, and that the one of which we have spoken." A brief pause, and then, "The
tales of my ancestors speak of others, but long ago they were. Of
those the most recent was in the one hundred and thirtieth anpuri of the great grandparent of my grandparent's great grandparent."
"The visitor who came most recently, a land called Caina it spoke of, a land which covered with ice is."
Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an glances at those who have chosen to eat the meat. "The flesh of the nutritional caste to your taste is?" it asks, pleasantly.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan pauses, a spiderleg dangingling from her hand as she considers
what he just asked. Suddenly she's very glad, whether or not it
was simply a poor translation, that she decided to stick with the
arthropods. Slowly she finished chewing what's in her mouth, and
puts the leg down, glancing around with sapphire eyes to see if anyone
was indeed eating the meat.
Berd grins sagely. There was a reason he avoided the food.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack pales a bit glancing at the food he’s been toying
with. Though he has not eaten any as of yet he immediately wonder if
they will consider it an insult if they do not eat it. “you mean to say
this meat is from a sentient being?” as soon as he asks he knows just
the asking could be a social blunder.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali smiles at Veldoma while finishing the piece of spider leg meat in her mouth and then smiles pleasantly.
"Yes it is very flavorful... thank you" the spider leg having yielding
all of its meat, Kali moves onto the other piece of meat on her plate,
reveling in the spicy flavor "Excellent" she comments after swallowing
her mouthful.
Hunter sniffs the food and then settles down at Kali's side, happily knawing on a spider leg.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack looks at Cyan, then over to Kali and back to Cyan. “You gotta love
a woman with a keen appetite and good constitution.” He smiles and
gives Kali a wink. “Cyan, do you think you could make a quick sketch of
the woman?” Jack asks
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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Which, apparantly, I do not possess. Spiders were one thing. Intelligent creatures, bred for food...that was another. It was...offensive.
"I fear not," Cyan returns, frowning, emerald eyes darkening in
consternation. "I never met the woman. My apologies."
She shrugs - it is true, she never did meet the girl.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares looks at what is left on his plate, debating whether to spit out
what he has in his mouth, and risk causing offence, or just not eat any
more. The worrying thing is that if he swallows the meat, now
that he suspects what it is, he might very well be violently sick.
The other worrying thing was that up until that point, he had been enjoying the meal.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus nods his thanks to Jack for preparing a plate and then sniffs at the food placed before him.
This is going to be a pain in the butt to eat with no hands.
Probably should have changed back to human before I got here, but it
may not be a good idea to shift back now.
Cocking his head, Lazarus looks for the best way to go about getting at
his food in his Panther form. Finally, with a feline sigh, he
extends one claw and deftly skewers one of the spider legs and drops it
to the floor where he can crunch through the chitin and get at the meat.
Not bad.
As Veldoma asks about the food caste's taste, Lazarus' green eyes
narrow to slits as he examines the features of the spider like
creatures on the plate and compares them to Veldoma, his tail twitching
unconsciously.
Weird... Never run across a species like this before. I
should be taking notes... Ugh. Note to self, cat shape not so
good for writing or eating.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack looks back at their host. “I am afraid I am feeling
ill and may not be able to eat regretfully. I am also afraid that I am
out of Ideas for the moment on how to help other traveler.” He says
looking at each of the group in turn then back to their host. “May I be
excused? Also is there someplace where I might rest for a bit?”
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali looks up worriedly at Jack when he announces his illness.
"Will you be ok?" she asks placing a concerned hand on his arm, worry
on her face, but her eyes reflect light humor instead of worry.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"I suppose," Cyan says, rubbing Berd across the eye ridges, her own
topaz eyes thoughtful, "the important question is, why these
worlds?" She frowns. A question for another time.
Right now, she simply feels lost. Too many worlds in too short a
time, and no answers to be found. Or, rather, many answers, but
she is unable to put them together properly, and some, no doubt, remain
concealed.
I wish I knew the right questions. I feel that, if only we could ask properly, we would gain the knowledge we seek!
She watches Jack stand with a frown. Did he eat the meat? I hope not...he looks rather distressed.
"I am sorry you are not well, Jack," she says to the man, giving him an
understanding look. "Hopefully it will be of short duration."
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack shakes his head looking between Kali and Cyan “No
I’ll be fine, I just need a bit of quiet time.” He flashes them with a
small weak smile “Thank you, thank you both.” He reaches up and gives
Kalis hand a squeeze, casting his eyes downward.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an turns its head as Jack speaks.
It says nothing until the others have finished speaking, then, "Illness?
Distress is by the food caused? Apologies I give, we thought to
you our food was acceptable. To the one who came before there was
no difficulty. Digested the food easily it did."
It indicates the tubers, "In deep caves these grow, and have little flavour, to your body they may be more acceptable?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali flips a tuber into her mouth with an expert motion and grimaces at Jack.
"H..sh..." Kali pauses, unsure of the sex of their host "Our host is right... very bland" she says, disappointed.
She then turns her attention back to Jack, concern overtaking her features.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"The food is fine," Cyan says quietly. "It is only that we have
had a long journey - no doubt Jack has become overtired, or perhaps he
has caught an illness on the worlds we have visited." She blinks
her ruby eyes thoughtfully, turning them to look at Berd.
Berd brings his head up, and stares back at her, then seems to shrug,
briefly. A moment later, and he goes back to lying down.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack gives a short bow to Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an, “You are a
most kind and gracious host. It is no fault of you own that I do not
feel well. Perhapse I shall better be able to eat after I have rested
for a bit, my journey so far has been an exciting one you understand.
In the mean time I am certain my companions will more than fill our
absence. If we can have your leave to see your beautiful city, if not a
room to rest in would be delightful.” He finishes with another short
bow and smiles at Kali.
===========================================================
Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Kalika Wolfblade
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Kali sighs contendedly, happy to have a full stomach. She bows her head at the spokesthing of their host and smiles tiredly.
"Well said Jack, well said" Kali rises to stand beside him "I fear our
journey has tired myself out as well. I, too will be retiring for the
night as well. Your food was extremely noursihing and tasteful. I look
forward to trying it again soon" she says honestly "Besides, if I feel
this tired now, I can only imagine how sleepy I will be after we set up
camp.. do you mind if we stay the night in your world?" she asks, sure
that permission will be granted, but not looking forward to getting
sand everywhere.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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"Do, please..." says Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an, inclining his head, "Prisoners none of you are, but guests." he makes a sweeping gesture with one hand, holding a spider limb wrapped in a slice of meat in the other.
"Your home consider this place."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Jack
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Jack gave a small bow to their host “Thank you.” Turning
he held out the crook of his arm for Kali. Smiling in the fact that the
others would have to purse the riddle of where to go from here, as they
walked to the door.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares smiles as Jack and Kali head outside. Then turns back to
their host, "You said that the last visitor came from a land called
Caina, a land locked in ice?" Then to Cyan, "There is a
place on the cube, one of the images is a snowfield, might that be
Caina?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Cyan
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"Oh, I suspect it is," Cyan says quietly. "In the absence of
anything to the contrary, the most logical deduction is often the
correct one." Berd snorts, dismissively, but Cyan ignores him,
turning to the host. "Thank you,
Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an," she says, bowing to the man and
getting the name correct, even down to the tonals. "I believe I
will avail myself of your hospitality."
Quietly she stands, with another bow. "I will be heading off to bed, now," she says to the others. "Pray continue."
WIth that, she slips out of the tent.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares glances at Lazarus, and then there were two,
before turning his attention back to Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an,
"Might it be permitted to ask some questions concerning your people?"
There are a few things he wants to know, but best to be polite, some people don't like nosy visitors.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an follows the progress of those who have
left the table, then turns its head back to face Ares, a disturbing
process because the head swivels through almost a full 180°...
Its hands move gracefully, gesturing in long slow movements like the motion of deep ocean plants, "Questions you may ask. My best I will do to answer them."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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Ares blinks as Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an's head swivels to face behing him... it.
Then he bows, "My thanks. How many of your people live
here? How long have they lived here? Are there other
settlements nearby? Do you trade with others?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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"Seven hundred and twelve of us are here, and of the nutritional caste four thousand two hundred and seven." Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an replies, gesturing with one hand as it
holds a tuber in the other. It takes a bite from the tuber and
swallows without chewing.
"Always we have lived in this place, but no
others there are nearby. Wasteland we are surrounded by for a
walk of many thousands of anpuri"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Lazarus silently watches Kali, Jack and Cyan depart, his inky tail undulating slowly.
Tired? Didn't we just get up and pass through the gate? Interesting. He makes a mental note of the event and moves on.
Either way, if none of us has seen the woman, it still might be
worth it to see if they can draw us a picture of her... At least
when we move on to the next shadow we can ask about the person that
these people have seen.
Concentrating for a moment to restructure his throat, Lazarus looks up
from his pile of shattered bits of chitin and 'nutritional caste'
remains. He coughs softly once and then directs his attention at
Veldom, "If it wouldn't be too much trouble, honorable
Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an, perhaps one of your people who saw
this person like us could make a visual representation of her? Or
help us to make a visual representation of her? It would be very
useful to us." As he finishes he inclines his feline head towards
the leader as a sign of respect.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an swivels its head to study Lazarus, not
appearing remotely surprised that an animal had spoken in a human
voice. It turns its head to a nearby table and trills something
in a high-pitched musical voice, hands moving faster through chains of
gestures. A creature at the the other table bows, and sings back.
Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an speaks to Ares and Lazarus, "Made at that time, a likeness was. Have it you may if help it will."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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"Thank you, Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an," replies Lazarus, "that
would be most helpful. Your hospitality has been most appreciated
as well," he continues wrapping his black tale around his
haunches. "I have one other question, if I might. Did this
visitor go by any particular name or address herself to you in any
particular way?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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"A name it had, yes... "
Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an considers for a moment, then exchanges
more of the high-pitched musical speech with several of its companions
at nearby tables, "Cylla it called itself."
"The one you seek this is, yes?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Ares
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"Yes, Cylla was the name." Ares nods in satisfaction, at least they
still seem to be on the right path. He chews on the meat
extracted from the armor of another spider while he considers going
outside to speak to his friends about this.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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On of the Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an at another table sings a complex
phrase to Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an, and it replies at length
before speaking to Ares and Lazarus once more, "Return your companions must to the shelter, almost here is the time of the Gatherer."
Around the chamber a number of the Sha'a'a'anpurrkanallapa'an start
clearing platters of food away, carrying them towards the entrance of
the building. Others are moving towards the opening to the lower
levels of the tower.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Getting up from where he'd been eating, Lazarus stretches his hind legs
in true feline fashion. "The time of the Gatherer? Is this
something that might be of danger to my fellow travellers?"
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Dworkin (GM)
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Veldoma'antazaclania'antiacla'an's features do not change, but somehow
the creature manages to convey a feeling of some discomfort.
Perhaps it is the way its hands are suddenly still for the first time
since you met it.
Finally it moves again and speaks carefully, hesitantly, "Time
for... truth between us it is. Unfair... it would be not to speak
thus. This place was as you see it not always. Lush grass
across this land grew once. Changed that the Gatherer did.
All things it destroyed that in shelters were not. Each seven
hundred and forty three anpurin return it does."
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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"Interesting."
Lazarus' tail twitches a bit as he turns to Ares. "I'll go grab the others and be back in a few minutes."
With that, he turns towards the exit and trots off in the direction
Jack, Kali and Cyan had left in, his dark form blending into the sands.
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Re: Part 10 - The song of the stones by Lazarus
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Exiting the building, Lazarus quickly scans the area for signs of his
companions, nostrils flaring as he checks for their scents. As
soon as he finds their trail, he pads off quickly in their direction.
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