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Part 23b: Escher
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Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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In a valley, the community nestles among the trees. Small stone
buildings blending into their environment so as to be almost invisible
from a distance. Only from the lake can a few of the houses near
the water be seen, and they fit so well into the scene that somebody in
a boat almost has to check twice to be sure they're there.
The people here are like the village; quiet, friendly, a part of the
scenery. Almost everybody seems to be an artist of some
sort. Painting, sculpting, carving, pottery, jewellery making...
all are practised here, and people occasionally come from the nearer
towns to buy the results.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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The day was bright and cheery, it was early afternoon and there was a
cool breeze coming down from the mountains. The calm and silence
of the remote area was briefly disrupted at a man suddenly appeared out
of nowhere. However since there was no one around for miles (one
of the reasons for choosing this spot), there was no further commotion
once he arrived.
Leonardo took a deep breath of the fresh clean air and smiled a genuinely pleased smile as he stretched his arms out.
If a tree falls in the forest but no one is around to hear it...
does it make noise? If a man appears from out of nowhere but no
one is around to see it... did he really arrive and if not can he get a
refund from his travel agent?
Home again, home again... where the heart is... and the liver, lungs,
brain, stomach and all the other organs for that matter at the
moment. It has been a long time... I wonder what has changed?
Leonardo took out the stew being made by Cyan, tasted it... and quickly
decided that unlike people, stew did not travel well via Trump.
Or at least he was willing to give the Bard the benefit of doubt and
blame the taste on the trip between Shadows.
Leonardo was forced by his discerning taste buds to gently distribute
the stew to those creatures with less sensitive palates but he kept the
pot just in case he ever met Cyan again so he could return it.
With a deep sigh of contentment at being home on familiar ground once
more, Leonardo moved towards one of the closer towns that he
remembered. He took out his camera and began using the zoom
function to take a closer look at the surrounding area.
So far, so good... said the man at each floor as he fell from the
100th story rooftop. I wonder what is going on with the Courts
and Amber... no contact and active interference... something that isn't
supposed to even be possible.
Oh well... at least this way Samuel can't scold me just yet for my lack
of discretion. I just hope Cyan has the good sense to convince
Jack to avoid The Enemy... at least for the immediate future. If
not... well it's their funeral but it may end up causing trouble for me!
I am curious as just who this Aaron was that showed up only to
disappear again in short order... I wonder where he went and why?
Oh well... at least now I can relax in a wonderful location where the
"rules" make sense! And where a talented artist is truly and
properly appreciated!
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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The town has not changed much. A lot more greenery now that
spring is here, and a couple of the shops appear to be under new
management. Apart from those small items though...
Leonardo wanders through the streets, acknowledging greetings from
aquaintances and strangers alike. It's a fine, bright day, and
everybody seems to be in a good mood. The town is crowded, a fact
explained when Leonardo reaches the central square and finds that it is
a market day.
As usual there are nearly as many artists, of varying degrees of
talent, as there are traders. Many of them are personally known
to Leonardo, and most of those he considers to be friends.
Unfortunately, the man who hails him from the doorway of one of the
organic-looking buildings does not fall into that particular category.
"Leonardo. Have you seen Simon lately?"
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Dworkin typed:Unfortunately, the man who hails him from the
doorway of one of the organic-looking buildings does not fall into that
particular category.
"Leonardo. Have you seen Simon lately?"
Five hundred million people on this planet.... and HE has to be the
first one I forced to deal with. Apparently my luck hasn't
changed all that much since I was last here. Still... it is
interesting to see that not much has changed.
I know I felt as if I had been away for a long time... but it looks as
if things couldn't have aged much more than about three or perhaps four
years. Even Xander looks much as I remember.... what a pity for
him, apparently even age can't mellow that face of his. One
wonders if even his mother loved it? Oh well... mustn't keep the
little "charmer" waiting.
Leonardo turns gracefully towards the man who had hailed him and does
his best to put on a cheery smile as he replies in a polite tone, "Ahh
Master Xander... it has been awhile, you're looking as prosperous as
ever. I'm sorry to say that I have not seen Master Simon
lately. In fact I have only just recently returned to the fair
town of Rockwell after a... brief hiatus from the local area."
Leonardo casually moves closer towards the man and adds in a softer and more direct tone, "So tell me Master Xander, just how is business going for you? How much does Simon owe this time? What friendly, neighborly rate of interest are you charging him... is it still by the week or have you moved on to a daily percentage by now?"
Leonardo's smile never altered but it was clear that Leonardo did not
care for people preying on his artistic friends... especially parasites
who never created anything useful or artistic in their entire lives.
Damn it Simon... when are you going to learn that being a great
artist does not immediate extend you an unlimited line of
credit!? If you managed your accounts the way you managed your
color schemes... you could buy Xander ten times over.
Oh well... I suppose it will be up to me to protect the local artistic
geniuses from these preying parasites. But of all people... why
must you go to Xander, he may not be the worst of his lot but he has
never shown the proper appreciation of the very simple modern
convenience... the shower!
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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Xander raises his hands in a placating gesture, and his tone of voice is one of mock horror as he replies, "Now,
Leonardo, things have changed in the months since we last met.
Simon and I are brothers now, in the Church of One. He owes me
naught but friendship, as I owe him. I merely wondered because he
has not been to a meeting in several days and I suspected that he was
perhaps ill, but there is nobody at his home."
"I thought that you might know where he is."
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Leonardo can't help but feel a bit wary of this recent revealation and
"confession" by Xander. He raises one eyebrow in question as he
responds in a calm, even tone, "Well
now... that is certainly news to me. I would never have taken
Simon for the religious sort... much less you Xander. Still if
that is your story, it sounds good enough to me I suppose. So do
you charge... interest on friendship? Just kidding Master Xander, no offense intended.
I must confess some ignorance in this matter and not just with regards to Simon's current location. I have been rather... secluded and out-of-touch for quite some time. As such I am not particularly familiar with this Church of One?
I don't suppose you would be willing to explain the philosophy behind
this new religion which has swept both Simon and yourself off your feet
from the sounds of it?"
Well now... what is this phoney business about some church or cult
that's so powerful and effective that it could actually bring Xander
and Simon together in the same group as anything but rivals or
creditor-creditee? It seems to me that it was only yesterday that
the "Temple of Mt. Dali" was the religious philosophy which was
all the rage in the more fashionable sections of Escher. I do
hope Simon hasn't dug himself in too deeply with this "Church of the
One"... any religious group which would freely accept Xander must be up
to no good.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Xander (NPC)
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"Most assuredly. I will be glad to discuss the Church with you." Xander replies. beaming, "In point of fact, I am on my way to a meeting even now. Will you join me? All are welcome to attend."
He waits expectantly, ready to lead Leonardo to the Church meeting, if he agrees to go.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Leonardo's eyebrows rose slightly as his interest in this new religious
cult was piqued. With a small shrug and a sigh of resignation,
Leonardo smiled in a friendly manner as he responded in a cordial tone, "Ahh well then... I suppose that would be the best way to find out more about this Church of One. It is just as the writers always say... "Show Don't Tell".
Still I am curious as to whom this One is supposed
to be... but I suppose I'll be finding that out soon enough.
Perhaps Simon will be able to make the meeting and we can both greet
him there?
By all means Xander, please lead on and I shall follow. By the
way Master Xander... what do you do now for a living seeing as you've
turned away from your earlier career of money-lending?
I do hope Simon is still painting, the last works I saw of his showed
great promise for a bright future in the Art World. I expected
him to enter the Grand Art Fair being held during the Spring Equinox in
the Giger Metropolis."
This is so unlike the Xander I know... if I didn't know my own
Trumps like the back of my hand, I would be willing to wager that this
was a Shadow of my homeworld.
I can't believe a slimey sneak of a man like Xander could change his stripes so quickly... what could this Church of One possible have done to him or shown him which would enact such a profound change?
Why do I feel uneasy all of a sudden... surely this is just another
freak cult, something to pass the time away before the next major shift
in Art sweeps everyone from their collective feet?
Leonardo follows slightly behind Xander in a comfortable casual pace
but he begins to regard his surroundings with greater care.
Leonardo begins to wonder what other changes great or small have taken
place in his home Shadow during his "brief" absence.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Xander (NPC)
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Xander leads Leonardo away through the streets, and Leonardo soon notes that not everybody seems pleased to see Xander.
"The One is... the One." Xander shrugs and smiles, "Tarquin,
the evengelist, has been moving through the local towns for several
weeks now, preaching to people in school halls and town squares.
He performs miracles too. My niece, Cassandra, her foot was
crushed by a falling block of marble only three weeks ago. I
asked Tarquin to pray for her, and a week ago she was able to walk
again as if no injury had happened."
"Ah... my business, yes. Well, I still lend money, but to other
Church members I offer the loan as a friend, with no urgency to repay
me. I simply increased my interest rates for outsiders to
compensate." Xander smiles cheerfully, obviously unable to see anything wrong with this practice.
His smile fades though, as screams and yells sound from just ahead.
"Oh, my word! Leonardo, it is a wolf! I didn't know they still lived in these parts. We must flee."
Sure enough, there is a very large wolf standing in the street.
It eyes the buildings, and the scattering residents of the town, with
an air of distrust, then starts to walk towards Leonardo, its gaze
fixed on the man...
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Leonardo just smiles and nods his head as he listens to Xander's rationalization new methods of usury. Apparently this ONE hasn't cured Xander of his greed or averice... it simply has redirected
it towards a more focused target. In fact Leonardo was forced to
admit to himself that it was quite a clever recruitment
technique. After all... if someone got buried in debt now, what
better way to relieve the pressure than to join the Church of One?
Just then a wolf strolls down the street heading right for him as the
town's people scatter. Leonardo reaches into his coat and
apparently withdraws a bladed gauntlet. With Piece firmly in hand, Leonardo assumes a defensive fencing stance as he calls to Xander, "Go
find yourself cover Master Xander, I shall see that no harm comes to
you or the other town's folk. Be not afraid, I have gained a
degree of martial knowledge which may serve me well in matters such as
this. Then again... perhaps violence will not be needed, a wolf
does not always have to be dangerous."
Well now... this is an interesting turn of events. A wolf
here... why Xander is quite correct, there hasn't been a wolf living
within miles of this town for decades. How interesting... first
Xander, then the Church and now a wolf... what will be next I wonder?
[OOC: So does this wolf look like Kalika's companion Hunter?]
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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Standing alone now, Leonardo studies the wolf, which is walking slowly
towards him. His artist's eye takes in the details of the animal
- a spot of lighter grey here, a darker patch there, an arrow embedded
in its flank...
Apart from the arrow, he realises, he has seen this animal before, in the company of Kalika Wolfblade.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Hunter
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Hunter approaches the man, Leonardo, without distraction. He had caught
his scent and tracked him. Ignoring the other man, Hunter limps to
Leonardo's side he licks the arrow in his flank delicately. The huge
wolf then looks up at the artist with large yellow eyes and whines
before looking pointedly at the arrow and then Leonardo and then
whining again. He does not appear afraid of the Leonardo, even with the
bladed gauntlet encasing one of his hands.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Oh great... when did I become Florence Nightingale? Hell I
don't even play a Doctor on TV! Well... I suppose it's nice to be
needed, though getting "used" by a beast does bring up all sorts of
unpleasant imagery. So I'm supposed to play Mr. Fix-It eh?
Well I hope this thing realizes that I'm not an arrow extraction expert
by any means!
Still... maybe by aiding this thing I will once again be "gifted" into
the good graces of the others... assuming they even have "good graces"
to begin with. Why me of all people?
With a deep sigh and a resigned shrug of his shoulders, Leonardo
retracts the blade back into the guantlet as it reforms into a bracer
around his left wrist. Leonardo strolls towards Hunter in a
casual manner and kneels down to take a closer look at the arrow wound.
As he examines the wound, Leonardo gently places his hands on the animal's flanks and communicates with the wolf, ~~~
Well now, long time no see eh my furry home companion? So where
is your mistress I wonder and how did you come by this nasty arrow
wound? I hope you realize that I am not a trained medical
expert... so any aid I lend you will most likely hurt quite a bit.
I suppose there's a good reason behind why you chose to seek me out
instead of one of the others... though in some ways I really wish you
hadn't. This is my home, I would not take it kindly if by your
actions you have brough danger and harm with you to my home. I do
hope you managed to shake off any pursuers before coming here.
Still what is done is done I suppose. If you agree to behave and
listen to my instruction, while I might not be able to lessen the pain
of removing the arrow, I might be able to aid you in quickly healing
the wound. I will now proceed to pull the arrow out to the best
of my very limited ability.
However the accelerated healing will require you to wear what will look
like a collar and leash. I realize for a wild animal such as you
that such a thing as a leash may be unbearable. Still that is how
it will have to be. So I leave the choice up to you, do you wish
to heal rapidly and return to full health or is your apparently freedom
more important to you? ~~~
Leonardo prepared to remove the arrow from Hunter's flank as he waited
for a sign from the wolf to proceed. In truth Leonardo did not
have a medical degree, however he had dealt with emergency medicine a
bit more than he had let on.
Often during a Hunt with Ares, one of the retainers or fellow hunters
would bite off more than he or she could chew... or rather they were
the one who was chewed. It was during those times that Leonardo
learned a thing or two about how to treat trauma injuries in the
field... not pleasant lessons but useful all the same.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Hunter
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When Leonardo touches Hunter's mind he senses nothing but feral animal.
His thought process is in blobby pictographs of wolves interacting,
mental sounds of growling and snarling, and scents and feelings.
After some adjustments to his way of communicating. Leonardo is able to
get the basics of his point across. Intelligent yellow eyes meet with
the artist's and the wolf nods once, slowly, but his teeth are lightly
barred, almost if in warning to not abuse the situation.
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Having gotten at least some of his main points across... at least to a
certain degree, Leonardo felt he had established as much
"understanding" with the wild wolf as was going to be possible for the
time being.
Leonardo shifted Piece into a form that resembled a leash
and collar before fitting the "collar" around the wolf's neck in a
gentle fashion. Leonardo then instructed Piece to focus its healing powers on the wolf.
Taking a deep breath, Leonardo got a firm grip on the arrow as well as
on Hunter's flank. He first tried to ease the arrow out as much
as was possible without causing further damage. However once it
became clear that he would need to a firm pull to remove it completely,
Leonardo took another deep breath and then yanked as hard as he
could as he let the breath out.
As Leonardo began to check the wound to insure that all of the arrow was fully removed, Piece was already hard at work repairing the damage and soothing the wolf's pain.
As Leonardo stood up, he brushed off the dirt from his pants and patted Hunter on the head as he thought, ~~~ Arrow out... safe... heal quick... all better soon... stay close by me... free once fully healed. ~~~
Leonardo then looked the wolf in the eyes and asked more to himself than to the wolf, "Ok...
so now what? It seems I have a walking companion for the
immediate future... but what I still don't understand is, why me?
Weren't you supposed to go find Kalika? Did something happen to
her I wonder... who was it that shot you and why? I suppose
answers to these and other more complex questions will not be
forthcoming anytime soon, huh? Then again.... perhaps I don't
want to find out the answers just yet, I have the sneaking suspicion
that I won't like them once I know them."
Leonardo turned back to where Xander had run off to and said in a loud but calm tone, "Oh
Master Xander, I believe everything is going to be perfectly
alright. I do believe you can come out and join me on the
street... this animal is not looking for trouble. I do believe we
are running a bit behind for our appointment, after all... we do want "to get to church on time", don't we?"
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Xander (NPC)
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From a safe distance, Xander watches Leonardo actually touch the wolf! He releases the breath he hadn't realised he was holding, and replies, "Perhaps
so, Leonardo, perhaps so. But wolves do have a certain reputation
for not looking for trouble. To whit: they have no need to look
for trouble, since it is normally a close companion to them."
He glances about, "I'm
certain the constables will be here shortly to help it on its way, in
one manner or another. Now, please, for pity's sake, step away
from the animal, before it decides that Talented Artist would make a
perfectly good repast on such a fine day."
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Leonardo shakes his head saddly and replies in a disappointed tone, "Where
has all the trust gone I wonder? Really Xander, if I say that
this beast is under control then it is... do you not see that it has
accepted the leesh and collar? Surely that must be a sign that
this animal has some degree of domestication and obediance training?
Besides I think I may recognize this wolf from... elsewhere. If I
am right about this wolf, then it would be highly inadvisable for the
constables or anyone for that matter to attempt to take this animal
against its will by force. Neither this creature nor its owner is
likely to go gentle with anyone who actively tries to harm it.
Now Master Xander... we are running much, much too late for no good
reason. Please lead on and I shall insure that the beast does no
harm to me or anyone else. Lead on sir and I shall follow, I
would not want to miss my first meeting of the "Church of One"."
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Xander (NPC)
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Xander seems to regain a certain degree of composure, and steps into the street with a confident stride. "Yes.
Surely that must be a sign that this animal has some degree of
domestication and obedience training. You are right. Now,
follow me, you would not want to miss your first meeting of the "Church
of One"."
Xander leads the way through the streets, and after only a short
distance he turns in through a gate in a high stone wall topped with
ornamental spikes of verdigrised copper. Beyond is a large
garden, a gravel driveway leading across an immaculate lawn, bordered
by ancient cypress and cryptomeria trees where benches and tables of
white-painted wrought iron stand in the shade.
At the end of the drive is a sprawling building, low and covered with
ivy. The door is open, and a new-looking sign affixed next to it
announces that this is the "Mission hall of the First Church of Divine Unity."
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Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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There is some half-hearted resistance to Leonardo's bringing Hunter
into the hall, but nobody wants to get too close to the animal.
He gains entry by the simple expedient of walking towards anybody who
objects.
The hall is decorated simply, with no ornamentation of any kind on its
plain walls or the posts which support the ceiling. There is only
one other door in sight, and that is near a lectern at the front of the
room.
People are filing in and finding places on the rows of seats, but
Leonardo finds that, for some reason, nobody wants to sit near him and
Hunter.
Looking about, he notes the long table by the wall on the left
side. A cloth covers it, and whatever is upon it. All he
can tell for the moment is that it is not an even surface. Two men
stand near the table, dressed in identical navy blue outfits, hands
clasped in front of them as they talk quietly.
The door by the lectern opens, and a large man steps through, also
dressed in navy blue, but bearing the aura of somebody who is more
concerned with breaking bones than saving souls. His arrival
brings an immediate hush to the room, and he steps to one side of the
door, surveying the room with eyes that look as dead as those of any
shark.
The man behind him looks like a prophet. Wild grey hair, long
beard, scars on his face showing around the eye patch that he
wears. He too wears dark blue, but of a different cut to the
others in the room. He walks directly to the lectern, and the
large man's twin brother enters, pulls the door closed, and then stands
on the opposite side to his brother.
The prophet stands, head bowed in prayer, or merely thought, for a long
moment, while the audience sits in silent anticipation. Then he
suddenly pounds one fist on the lectern, "There are those, in this community," he says, his voice clear and deep, "who
believe that it is their right to complain about every decision made by
those who are entrusted with making those decisions. And yet, and
I'm sure we all know somebody who fits this description, they are never
prepared to offer any solution themselves."
"All too often they will say, 'That is wrong!' or 'That will never
work!' and, if asked to provide an idea or solution of their own, their
response is so often, 'It. Is. Not. My.
Responsiblity. To. Solve. This.'"
"Luckily for all of them, and all of you, The One is not afraid to
share the burden of authority and responsibility. These others,
the SHIRKERS, they want things to be better, and yet they are prepared
to make NO effort of their own! They are like cattle in the
fields. All they care about is that they are fed, they want no
part in doing the feeding."
"I will tell you of The One, of a deed that He performed out of His
desire to improve the world, and although it cost Him dearly, He did
not rail against Fate, He did not surrender. No! He took
His Fate into His own hands, and continued in His effort to better the
world."
"The One was born the son of a powerful man, a king, in a high
castle. He was the first son of this King, and should have been
his heir, but the King had not married His mother, and so He was born
without rights. Later, two more sons were born, and these were
born in wedlock, and so they were heirs to the throne of the kingdom."
"The One was not envious. He was a friend to the two boys, and
being older than they, He taught them much of what He had
learned. Selflessly He taught them, that they might grow up wise,
even though in doing so He strengthened their claims to the throne."
"Then, one terrible day, another son was born, and the old king looked
upon this new child as a favourite. He banished the two brothers
from his court, declaring them outside the Law, and said that if they
returned it would be on pain of hideous and gruesome death!"
"Dismayed by this turn of events, for the brothers were wise and just,
The One went before the king to plead for clemency. He explained
that they would make good rulers when the king had passed, and He
begged the king to reconsider, but the king would have none of it."
"The next day He returned and pleaded with the king, but was again
rebuffed. It was the same every day for five days, and finally
the king seemed to waver. And it was at this point that the true
architects of the deed became apparent. The queen, supported by
the king's father, entered the hall and spoke to the king. There
must have been spellcraft at work, for the king immediately became
angry with The One. He was thrown into a prison, wrapped in
chains."
"For five YEARS He was tortured, one year for each day when He had
begged the king to be merciful. Then the king used a great magic
to break His body into one thousand pieces, and he scattered the pieces
to the four winds. Then he went back to his throne, content."
"But The One did not die. His soul was too strong, and so He
lives in all the parts of the world, even to this day. And still
He works to make right the wrong."
The prophet falls silent, and his head drops. At last he speaks again "We will pray." All heads bow, and the prophet intones the prayer, "We
who are your followers, Lord, pray that you will smile on our efforts
when we try to make things right, and that you will keep us from
apathy. We ask you for the strength to continue when all seems
doomed to failure, and for the wisdom to know where to apply that
strength. Above all we ask you to show those who do not strive
for improvement, but demand it of others, the error of their ways, so
that more people will strive, and the world will become better by
degrees. Amen."
There is a murmured "Amen", and the room is silent for a moment.
Then it seems that the service part of the meeting is over, and people
stand and begin circulating, chatting. The prophet, with his
guardians, moves out into the room to speak to people. The cloth
is removed from the table to reveal several stacks of books.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Well now... that was quite interesting. Why I wonder... why
does a prophet require "protection" of a level I would normally
associate with people even shadier than Xander usually is?
Still... I can't help but feel that this man made several good
points. There certainly is a lot of unconstructive bickering,
even before I left I remember thinking that Escher would never be able
to form one firm source of leadership for the entire planet... at least
not until I decided to come back and set things the way I wanted them.
I wonder what happened to this One after he was divided into so many parts? Certainly this One is a tough SOB... even Piece would have a tough time putting me back together after that kind of
treatment. What was up with the Queen and the King's father I
wonder.... why the need for favoritism?
And what... may I ask... did those two other sons do while their elder
brother was being put in prison and tortured? Maybe the One was
blind to their weakness for they seem to have left him to rot after
pleading THEIR case! Hell... the whole thing sounds about as
convoluted as the family tree for Amber's Royal Family... at least as
Samuel tried to explain it to me once.
Still... I don't see how such a thing as this kind of storytelling is
going to "change" a man like Xander or appeal there would be to my
friend Simon. Something tells me there has to be more going on
here than just a little sermonizing. Oh well... I suppose it's
time to mingle.
Leonardo rose from his seat and gently guided Hunter alongside him as
he made his way towards the prophet. Leonardo bowed towards the
prophet and said in a cordial, polite and respectful tone, "Amen
indeed Teacher. That was a most interesting and powerful sermon
you just gave, it certainly sparks the imagination regarding what other
grand tales there are to be told about The One. He certainly
sounds like a man wronged beyond words and treated most unjustly by his
family.
But please forgive me for not introducing myself, my name is
Leonardo. I hope you do not mind my intruding on your meeting but
one of your fellow worshipers invited me, Master Xander. Also I
did not have time to find a proper place to leave my animal companion
and I didn't want to be late for the mass, so I do hope you will not be
offended that I brough him with me.
I wonder... how did you first become aware of The One? I admit
that it has been awhile since I was last in circulation socially
speaking but I don't seem to recall hearing about The One before
today. I am also drawn to curiousity about what happened to The
One after he was broken into so many parts. Did he ever return to
face his tormentors and set right his father's kingdom? What
happened to his brothers I wonder?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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The man tilts his head towards Hunter, appraising him, then looks back at Leonardo, "A fine animal indeed. Where did you come by him?"
"Yes, that is but a single story of The One, His life is truly
remarkable. There are many tales of Him, as you will hear if you
decide to attend further meetings, Leonardo. Meanwhile, why not
take some of the pamphlets, which contain some of the briefer parables?"
"I have travelled much, Leonardo, and it was in a distant land that I
first encountered this faith. I had but recently lost my eye, and
I heard the tale you have just heard. It struck enough of a chord
to encourage me to look further into His extraordinary life."
"No, He never went home, to this day He still strives to bring His body
back together, and slowly He is succeeding. And that is where we
come in. With the help of loyal followers, such as myself, and
these others here, the work goes faster."
"His brothers, well their fate is unknown, save the youngest, who is
still known to live in the castle of his father. The other two
were banished and never returned. Some scholars maintain that the
word banished is a euphemism for killed. Personally I choose not to believe that, for while they are still alive, then there is hope."
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dworkin typed:The man tilts his head towards Hunter, appraising
him, then looks back at Leonardo,"A fine animal indeed. Where did
you come by him?"
Leonardo smiled and replied in a friendly tone, "Well... I wouldn't say I came by him so much as he came by me. A smart man chooses his friends well, family is something one is stuck with. But like you, I also tend to
travel around a good deal and one day we just met as fate would have
it... these things happen to the best of us."
Leonardo gave Hunter a friendly pat on the head with a warm disarming smile.
quote:"Yes, that is but a single story of The One, His life is
truly remarkable. There are many tales of Him, as you will hear
if you decide to attend further meetings, Leonardo. Meanwhile,
why not take some of the pamphlets, which contain some of the briefer
parables?"
Leonardo reached out and gently picked up some of the pamphlets which
he placed in the pockets of his duster saying in an interested tone, "Oh
I certainly intend to find out more about The One... this is too good a
story to leave just as things are getting interesting. I thank
you for the reading material and I do plan to come to more of these
meetings, I want to learn more about the workings of The One. By
the way, I am sorry to say that I don't believe that I got your name
Teacher, would you honor me with it?"
quote:"I have travelled much, Leonardo, and it was in a distant
land that I first encountered this faith. I had but recently lost
my eye, and I heard the tale you have just heard. It struck
enough of a chord to encourage me to look further into His
extraordinary life."
Leonardo was quite interested in the man's words and nodded his head as he replied in a curious tone, "Hmm...
it is funny that depite all of my travel, I have never come across any
tales of The One. His story certainly seems like the kind of
grand tale that would be be told in one variation or another many
places. I imagine that a well trained Bard would
certainly know some of the stories at least. Shame I don't know
any off hand to ply for further details before the next meeting... then
again, I suppose mystery is part of what makes The One so facinating.
But tell me, how did you lose your eye... and what measures have you
taken to treat that injury? While I am not medical man by
training.... I do know a few things about healing. On a different
note, where did you first hear the tales of The One? More
importantly, where did you need to travel in order to learn so much
more about His life and trials?"
quote:"No, He never went home, to this day He still strives to
bring His body back together, and slowly He is succeeding. And
that is where we come in. With the help of loyal followers, such
as myself, and these others here, the work goes faster."
Leonardo sighed slightly and responded in a serious tone, "His
is a great task indeed... to survive for so long by force of Will
alone. So... just how close to colllecting and re-combining all
the pieces is he and/or his followers? How long do you suppose it
will be before The One is whole once more? I can't help but
wonder why a being of such Power and Will... why does The One need a
physical body anymore? Could a mere vessel of flesh and bone
really be enough to contain such a powerful being?"
quote:"His brothers, well their fate is unknown, save the
youngest, who is still known to live in the castle of his father.
The other two were banished and never returned. Some scholars
maintain that the word banished is a euphemism for killed. Personally I choose not to believe that, for while they are still alive, then there is hope."
Leonardo raised his eyebrows slightly and shrugged saying in a resigned tone, "Well... as the saying goes, "Hope springs eternal".
Still... I wonder that the two banished brothets never tried to rescue
The One during his imprisonment.... especially as he was jailed for
pleading on THEIR behalf? If they were truly the just and good
rulers that The One had molded them to be, I can only think that some
powerful force must have kept them away and that may not bode well for
their safety.
Is anything more know about this youngest brother? Why was this
young one favored above the rest... to the exclusion no less of his
siblings? What did this younger brother think or feel knowing how
his elder siblings had been treated, I wonder?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"My name? Of course, rude of me not to give
it, please forgive me. My name is Tarquin Caer, but most just
call me Tarquin. Please consider yourself one of the latter
group." the man says, pleasantly enough. He seems quite happy to speak to Leonardo, for the moment at least.
"The Church of The One has its origins in a tiny
country, isolated by mountains and almost impassable jungles, called
Chibal. It lies far from most major trade routes. Few have
heard of it, and fewer still are the outsiders who make their way
there."
"I, myself, discovered it almost by accident, you might say. I
had a passion for mountaineering when I was younger and, having some
small savings, I travelled to the Orient to climb."
"One day I pulled myself up onto a ledge and found myself confronted by
an angry lammergeier and its chick. The bird tore out my eye in
its attempt to drive me away. My guide was a good man, though,
and knew that we were near Chibal, even though I had never heard of the
place."
"It was there that I first heard the tales of The One."
"As for why he needs a body of flesh, when his will is so
powerful... Who am I to question His motives? I'll ask you
this instead; If you were robbed of something, and saw the chance to
retrieve it, would you not at least attempt to do so?"
Likewise, who can explain the whims of kings when it comes to choosing an heir>"
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo nodded and smiled at Tarquin as he responded in a polite tone, "Well
I am honored to meet you Teacher Tarquin and this story of The One and
his Church just gets more and more facinating as you continue the
tale. I can't say that I am familiar with this place called
Chibal but it certainly sounds like somewhere I need to visit...
perhaps I too will be graced with inspiration?
I am sorry to hear about your misfortune but then perhaps one eye was
the price for true clear vision? After all the story of The One
is about pain and loss on a physical level which leads to strength of
will on a spiritual level. I wonder if The One sought you out as
his prophet and arranged for your guide to lead you to the source of
your own personal spiritual revealation?
By the way, I did not mean to question the motives of The One... far
from it. I was merely indulging in my bad habit of idle
curiousity. I would have thought that no physical form would be
sufficient to contrain such a powerful will and spirit... then again,
perhaps with The One all things are possible. I have no doubt
that anyone so driven will eventually succeed in his goal.
I wonder though that The One has not tried to take his just vengence
against the King and more importantly the Queen who betrayed him?
Does he intend to seek and demand justice once he is whole again?
That will be some day of reckoning should it come to pass I imagine!"
[OOC: So is Tarquin's eye still gone or damaged? Also how is Hunter's arrow wound looking?]
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Ah... yes. Curiousity is so often the
downfall of those who wish to learn. Too often the fools do not
realise when they must halt their quest for knowledge and be happy with
what they have."
Tarquin laughs and claps Leonardo on the shoulder, "I am only joking, my friend. Curiousity is a good thing to have, for how else do we learn?"
The prophet nods at Leonardo's question regarding vengeance, "Yes,
it is written that when He has sufficient capability, The One will
return home and see that Justice, not vengeance, is administered to
those who wronged Himself and His brothers."
OOC - Tarquin wears an eye patch, so it is
impossible to see the extent of the damage to his eye. Hunter's
wound is looking pretty much healed.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo makes a mock swipe of his brow as he replies in a friendly tone, "Whew...
I was getting worried there for a moment. I'm glad we see
eye-to-eye on the value of curiousity... as I tend to be burdened with
an excess at times. Hmm... Justice... yes I can see that,
I am sorry if I offended you by implying someone like The One would
lower himself to petty vengence. It is clear that such a concept
is beneath him.
Teacher Tarquin, I hope you will forgive my next question as it may be
a bit too personal. I do not mean to pry to far but seeing as the
event had such an impact on your life... and from there on many other
live... have you ever sought healing for your eye from The One? I
am sorry if the question is indelicate but I do have a reason for
prying this way."
Why am I reminded of that silly Aerth child's tale of
Humpitty-Dumpitty when I think about putting The One back
together? I wonder what H-D would have done had all the Emperor's
camels and all the Emperor's men been successful in making him whole
once more? Would he have tried to retake his seat upon the
Wall... or would he have chosen a safer resting spot? If The One
is this powerful now... what would he be capable of once restored to
his physical form?
Then again... what if his physical form is the thing that made him
vulnerable? Had he been able to utilize his full potential Force
of Will when he was brought before the King and Queen... would he not
have been able to free himself and restore just rule to the
kingdom? How powerful must this King and Queen be if they could
do such a thing to someone so driven as The One?
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The preacher's smile suddenly looks a little forced, as he replies, "That, Sir, is a very personal qestion. However, since you are a stranger here, I will answer it."
"No, I have never sought anything for myself, even though I have seen what my prayers can do for
others. To use The One's gifts for my own personal gain would not
be right."
One of his aides leans forward and murmurs in Tarquin's ear, and the preacher nods to him, then, "You
must forgive me, Leonardo, I have a prior engagement that I must
attend. Please feel free to mingle with the others, and I hope to
see you at future meetings."
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo bowed politely towards Tarquin and responded in a respectful and conscilatory tone, "Do
please forgive my indelicate query friend Tarquin, I meant no offense
or disrespect. I realized that you would never abuse your power
in a way that would lead to your own personal enrichment, I merely
wondered if there was a religious reason or point of faith behind your
continued state. If not... then I might have an idea or two to
share regarding healing techniques.
However do not allow me to delay you Teacher, I would not wish to
interfere with the work of The One. I am certain I will come
again to hear more of The One and his plans for justice in the
future. May you leave and travel in peace Teacher Tarquin."
As Tarquin leaves, Leonardo turned to find Xander and asked him in a curious tone, "Master
Xander how long have you been a student of Teacher Tarquin and... how
long as Simon been a follower of The One? Is Tarquin the only
Teacher of The One or are there others spreading the good word among
the masses of Escher?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Xander (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well now... Tarquin is the only one I know of personally, at least
in the local area, but I would presume that there are others." Xander states, after giving Leonardo a distinctly puzzled look.
"I joined the Church some five weeks since, and Simon was already a
member then. I can't say with complete certitude, but I think he
only joined two, or possibly three weeks before myself."
"Why do you ask?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo smiles at Xander and responds in a reassuring tonr, "Oh
just idle curiousity... I just find it amazing how so much could change
in such little time. To think that a faith based initative such
as the Church of the One could spring up and rise to such prominance in
only about 2-3 months at most... facinating to be sure.
So Xander, would you say the membership has been growing at a dramatic
rate? Has the message of the Church of the One spread throughout
Escher or has it been mainly focused here?
Hmm... Xander... have you ever heard Teacher Tarquin or anyone else associated with the Church refer to The One...
by some other name? Is The One called anything else or is it
always just The One... not that there need be any other name as it
seems to fit quite well?
I am surprised that Simon did not attend the service today... it is a
shame as the sermon was quite thought provoking. How long has
Simon been absent from the meetings... Xander, when was the last time
you saw Simon and was it here at a service?"
Why does this story of the One... a powerful being driven by will
but broken into many parts... why does it ring a bell in the back of my
mind? Something I heard over the past few days during my time
with the "charmers"... there's a connection with this story of the
One. But what is it and why do I get the bad feeling that the
more I dig into this Church... the less I'm going to like the
results? Could this... could this be the same path Simon took...
and is his absence a warning foretelling my own reaction to getting
involved with these people? I wonder....
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Xander (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Xander thinks for a moment or two, then sighs, "Aaah... Leonardo. Beginning to doubt after such a brief time?"
"Hahah! Only jesting my friend. If you read some of the
pamphlets you will find that the Church has been flourishing for a
number of decades in some of the lands to the east, but it is only a
couple of months since Tarquin arrived in this area, at the invite of
several influential persons. And yes, membership is growing
rapidly. The Church seems to offer so much for everybody."
"Doubtless The One has another name, I find it unlikely that he was christened that, hahah!" Xander looks around quickly, to see if anybody heard his possibly blasphemous joke, "To be honest though, I have never heard Tarquin, or any of the others, refer to him in any other way."
"Simon? I haven't seen him in... four? Five? Yes... five
days. It's most worrying. The last time I saw him was here,
after a meeting. We were all leaving, and I looked around and
Simon was talking to Master Tarquin. I considered waiting for
him, but it didn't appear that he would be leaving very soon, so I
left."
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo nodded his head at Xander's replies and responded in a grateful tone, "Well
I really must thank you Xander for inviting me here today and for
taking the time out to help me find the information I need. I
will be sure to read up on the Church, I am certain that there is a lot
of valuable information and probably all the answers to my questions
contained in this reading material.
I think perhaps I should head out and perhaps do a little searching for
poor Simon. If I know him... he caught sight of the last rays of
a beautiful sunset and is now camped out, determined to capture that
beauty on canvas no matter how long it takes. Tell Xander, does
Simon still live at the same cottage on the outskirts of town... where
he has his studio setup in the back room?"
[OOC: assuming that Xander provides the information on Simon's current living quarters]
Leonardo gives Xander a friendly smile as he collects as many pamphlets
being made available as possible and says in a cordial tone, "Take care Xander and remember to... keep the Faith." Leonardo gives Xander a quick disarming wink.
As Leonardo puts the pamphlets in his coat pockets and thanks the
people handing them out, he also confirms the schedule for the regular
meetings which are held at this church and takes note of the day and
time for the next scheduled meeting.
With a last appraising look around the building and at the people assembled, Leonardo exits the Church of the One.
[OOC: I am going to assume that Leonardo had no problems leaving. If he does, then ignore the following.]
Once outside, Leonardo headed back for the town. He still had
Hunter on a "leash" but he could tell that the wound had healed and Piece was no longer needed. Still he kept the leash on because it
seemed to provide others with a degree of comfort. This way, the
wild wolf seemed more like a semi-domesticated "tamed" dog... at least
to those who didn't stare for too long.
Leonardo decided to head for Simon's home and begin the search there.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Simon's house is one of those down near the lake shore. A single
storey structure covered with ivy and moss which, from out on the
water, make the place look like part of the natural scenery.
It looks to be deserted. No smoke rises from the chimneys, and
the only sounds are birdsong and Leonardo's own footfalls on the path.
Apart from the front door, which faces the path that leads back to
town, there is one other potential entrance; a pair of sliding doors on
a terrace at the back of the house, which would give a fine view of the
lake when opened.
On the terrace is an easel, with a part-finished canvas on it.
The painting has been damaged by rain, and even the occasional bird
droppings from the branches overhead.
OOC - the next meeting is the day after tomorrow, at the same time - early afternoon.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo looked over Simon's house with a critical gaze and a worried
feeling in the pit of his stomach... it was clear Simon had not been
home in several days. Despite his concern and his better
judgement, Leonardo couldn't help but take a moment to critique Simon's
latest work.
Hmm... not bad, certainly an improvement in his use of negative
space... but he still needs more work with his color blending, when
will he accept that sometimes one needs less NOT more! Wait...
what the hell am I doing!? Forget the damn painting... it's
clearly ruined anyway. I should be focusing on Simon and his his
whereabouts... something about this who situation does not sit right
with me! Perhaps... perhaps it is time for Hunter to return my
earlier favor of healing? I wonder if Simon still keeps his spare
key in the same place?
Leonardo moves over to the small patch of rose bushes in the back
garden and reaches through the thorns in order to grasp a small
rosewood box. Sure enough, the spare key to Simon's place is
still there and Leonardo lets himself into Simon's apartment through
the locked sliding doors at the back of the house.
As he looks around the house for possible clues or signs of struggle,
Leonardo also looks for items or clothes which would have Simon's scent
on them. Leonardo tries to communicate through Piece to Hunter using a mishmash of ideas, concepts and senses which the
animal uses for "language". Leonardo tries to get across the idea
of someone missing and the idea that Leonardo needs help to find this
person. Leonardo also tries to get across the idea for Hunter to
use Simon's things to pick up Simon's scent... which can then be used
to try and track Simon down.
[OOC: So how does the inside of Simon's house look like and are there
any significant changes from the last time Leonardo was here... which
seems to have been only a few months as far as Escher time goes.]
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Simon's house looks as though there has been a full scale-battle in
there, which means it hasn't changed since Leonardo's last visit.
Housekeeping and Simon were never the closest of friends.
Unfortunately that makes it rather difficult to find any signs of a
struggle. Or rather, there are plenty of signs of a struggle, but
it is impossible to determine if a struggle actually occurred here.
However, there is plenty of dirty laundry heaped on the
floor beside the overflowing hamper. Hunter seems more than
familiar with the concept of following a trail, and seems quite happy
to sniff and paw his way through the pile in order to commit the scent
to memory.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo looks around at Simon's home with his usual disgust... the man
certainly hadn't allowed "finding religion" to change his domestic
ways. But... there was also a certain sense of relief, whatever
influence the Church of One may have had on Simon... they had
apparently not changed his core personality. Then again...
perhaps that was why poor Simon had gone missing?
Leonardo guides Hunter around to numerous items from which the wolf
could get a good scent. After doing this for a few minutes,
Leonardo kneeled down and stared into Hunter's eyes as he tried to make
contact with the animal once again. Leonardo tried to get a sense
about whether Hunter could track Simon from his scent... and whether
Hunter would be willing to aid Leonardo in his search for his friend?
If Hunter was capable and agreeable to this endeavor... then to
Leonardo's mind, there was no time like the present to begin the search!
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Hunter
-----------------------------------------------------------
Hunter knows this. He has done this before, many times.
Take the scent from some item, then find the most recent trail of that
scent and follow it. He is good at it. Only Kalika is
better, but Kalika isn't here. The wolf resists the urge to throw
his head back and howl at that thought.
Instead he sets off, keeping to a pace that the man can keep up
with. Of course Kalika could outrun the wolf, but this man is
clumsy and slow, and he doesn't have the art of putting on his secret
skin. Best to go carefully.
The trail leads back to the large buiding where they had been before,
and mixes with many others. Hunter is too good to lose it
though. There is some circling about near the doors, then... here
a fresher trail leads away, past the corner of the building, around
towards the woods behind it.
Here, a narrow trail leading into the gloomy recesses of the
forest. Hunter could walk that trail in silence, but he knows
that the man can not. At the edge of the forest he waits, looking
along the trail, offering the man the choice.
Follow or not?
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo had been noticing the wolf's "attitude" for awhile now and
this latest look left no doubt as to the animal's disposition.
How... I wonder.... do I end up in these sorts of situations?
How... one might ask... does a four legged beast attain enough
"stature" so that he can "look down his nose" at me!? This may
not be my element but does that mean I should turn around and go home?
Why can these things never be simple and straightforward.... and why
must I constantly be placed in situations for which I lack the proper
training and conditioning? I do hope this isn't just another wild
goose chase... if Simon is simply off skylarking with his latest full
bodied but empty headed "artistic model"... I am going to be sorely
displeased!
Leonardo knelt down beside Hunter and removed the collar of the "leesh" which Piece had been acting as ever since this afternoon. With a resigned
sigh, Leonardo looked towards the dark woods and then back at Hunter
before saying in a hushed tone, "Very well
then... you're clearly the expert here and certainly don't need me
tagging along it seems. You injury has healed and there is no one
else around to notice you running free and wild. Go then and
follow this trail using your inborn expertise. I shall wait here
for your return.
Perhaps when the sun is up, you can guide me back to whatever you
find. I will make the best use of my time preparing an update for
our former comrades... not that they will care much I suppose but I did
offer to stay in touch."
Leonardo took another moment to attempt to convey his words into
thoughts and sense which Hunter might better understand. Leonardo
then waited to see how the wolf would react before deciding what to do
next.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Hunter
-----------------------------------------------------------
When the collar is removed from his neck, Hunter resists the temptation
to cavort about in a circle, and settles instead for stretching,
yawning, and a good shake, which at least maintains his dignity.
He gives the clumsy human a long, appraising look. It seems that
they are beginning to reach a better understanding of each other.
Perhaps this will work out for the best after all.
Then he is simply gone, with not even a trembling leaf to show where he has passed into the forest...
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo smiles at the response of Hunter to having the collar removed,
he can empathize with the animals distate of being restrained.
Still Leonardo is not quite sure what to make of the long look the wolf
gives him and he begins to wonder just how much he can afford to rely
on and trust this beast... mutual acquaitances or not. Still he
hopes he can take it as a good sign that the wolf continues on into the
dark woods... assuming it hadn't just decided to go Shadow-Walking and
leave Leonardo behind to wait for nothing.
With the wolf gone, Leonardo leans his back against a large tree and
begins to compose his update note for Cyan which he will deliver to the
"dropbox" Shadow of Serenity. With in a few moments, Leonardo has
finished his note and he establishes Trump contact with Serenity.
He is surprised to see that there is already a note waiting for him but
he decides he can read that later as he places his note in the agreed
upon manner before returning to Escher.
Once back in Escher, Leonardo pulls out a small pocket flashlight from
one of the many pockets in his coat. He then proceeds to read
Cyan's brief note. Leonardo's brow quickly furows in concern and
wonder as he ponders the meaning and possible outcomes of Cyan's update.
Well I suppose that's one way to "take the fight to the enemy"... I
wonder where they have gone? Why do I get the feeling I wouldn't
be told even if I asked? Hmm... so... how did it go I wonder...
did the Archons "take one for the team"... or have Cyan and Berd and
Jack joined David Ares in the mythical Hall of Heroes? If it did
work... what would they do next? Have they another target to
strike and if so... where would that be?
Oh well... I suppose I should be satisfied that they are bothering to
keep me in the loop at all.... I suppose I should be grateful for the
crumbs they deign to supply me. Besides... I don't have time
right now to go off galavanting around the Shadows in search of some
"Super Weapon"... there's too much to deal with right here for the
moment.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo waits for a good while, perhaps two hours, and the area
becomes darker as the evening closes around him. Finally he hears
a sound from the trail that Hunter had followed, something moving fast.
He moves to peer into the gloom, and Hunter launches himself straight
at him. The wolf twists in mid-leap, so that his shoulder strikes
Leonardo hard, in the ribs. The air whooshes out of the man's
lungs, and he falls backwards, and as he falls he sees something flash
past in the space where his chest had been a moment before.
Leonardo lands heavily, with the big wolf on top of him. Hunter
rolls clear, scrambling to his feet, hackles rising as he turns to face
the tunnel-like entrance to the trail.
Three figures step out from the forest. All are naked, save for
loincloths, and their skin is heavily tattooed in primitive-looking
designs. Their hair is long and unkempt, knotted and matted, and
their faces, in the fading light, are almost bestial. Two carry
spears, the third has a shortbow, and is in the process of nocking an
arrow.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo swiftly and gracefully rolled backwards from his prone
position as his left hand disappeared into his coat. As he rose
from the ground, his left hand (now covered in a metal guantlet) moved
backwards so the view of it was hidden behind his body. With his
free hand, Leonardo made a move to brush off the dirt and then he
wagged his finger in mock scolding at Hunter saying in a lighthearted
but "displeased" tone, "Now
look what you've done... bad Hunter... bad wolf. Have you been
bothering these nice gentlemen in the oh so fashionable loin
cloths? What did I tell you about bothering strangers?"
Although he was addressing Hunter, Leonardo never really took his eyes
off the men. As one of them began notching another arrow,
Leonardo held out his free hand in an open "stopping" gesture and said
in a polite tone with a warm smile, "Now
gentlemen, please... I'm sure we can work all this out in a nice
friendly neighborly fashion... there's absolutely no need for... UN-pleasantness.
After all... SOMEONE could get hurt if we go around playing with
arrows. Tell me good sirs what seems to be the problem?"
Leonardo began circling the men in the opposite direction of Hunter so
that they would not be bunched up. Leonardo gripped Piece tightly with his left hand behind his back and felt reassurance from
its presence.... as twin blades began to extend from the knuckles.
Well this is an interesting development... it's certainly ONE way to
spend an evening. What lovely tattooes... I must make a closer
study of the patterns once their owners are in a more agreeable
mood.... of course it would be a shame to spoil the artwork with
unseemly blood splatters just to get a better look. But...
somehow I don't get a "let's all be friends" feeling from these boys...
I don't think they are here to "reason this out"... just a guess of
course.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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One of the spear carriers gestures towards Hunter, "Ongawa!", but his eyes stay fixed on Leonardo. The archer turns his attention to the wolf, while his two companions watch the man.
Hunter turns to run, then rolls sideways as the arrow passes him.
The big wolf moves faster than anything Leonardo has ever seen before,
and the bowman is down, with his throat torn open, before he can even
cry out.
The wolf turns, blood dripping from his jaws, and walks slowly towards the other two, now pinned between himself and Leonardo.
The growl which escapes between his curled lips sounds like the rumble of distant thunder...
One of them, the one who had spoken, suddenly lunges at the seemingly
unarmed Leonardo with his spear, while his companion turns towards the
approaching wolf and jabs at it in an attempt to hold it at bay.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
quote:One of the spear carriers gestures towards Hunter, "Ongawa!", but his eyes stay fixed on Leonardo.
With a foppish smile, Leonardo replies in a cordial tone, "Why Ongawa to you as well my dear fellow. I am so glad that you are willing to talk...."
quote:Hunter turns to run, then rolls sideways as the arrow
passes him. The big wolf moves faster than anything Leonardo has
ever seen before, and the bowman is down, with his throat torn open,
before he can even cry out.
The wolf turns, blood dripping from his jaws, and walks slowly towards the other two, now pinned between himself and Leonardo.
Shaking his head sadly, Leonardo makes a "Tsk" sound and says in a tone of regret, "Oh dear... it seems you have chosen to act rashly. Why must we always do things the Hard Way?
Really don't you see my poor fellow that this will only end BADLY...
for one of us at least. Now look at your friend lying in a pool
of his own blood... didn't I warn you not to anger the wolf? He does have rather a nasty temper now doesn't he?"
quote:One of them, the one who had spoken, suddenly lunges at
the seemingly unarmed Leonardo with his spear, while his companion
turns towards the approaching wolf and jabs at it in an attempt to hold
it at bay.
Leonardo takes a firmer defensive stance as he says in a deadly serious tone, "Hmm... so you wish to play, is that it?"
As the man lunges with his spear, Leonardo waits until the man has
commited himself to the lunge before spinning around to the side of the
spear. His intention is to use the spin as momentum for bringing
his left hand from behind his back and "disarming" his attacker.
He intends to sever the forearm of the hand holding the spear closest
to the spearhead (OOC: I'm assuming the man is using the spear
two-handed) and following through so that the upper half of the spear
is sliced off as well. For the moment Leonardo doesn't want the
man killed outright and he figures that Hunter will have no such
reservations about repeating his earlier maneuver on the 2nd spearman.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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The man jabs at Leonardo, who sidesteps, turns, and slashes down with
the blades that hadn't been there a few moments earlier. His
opponent is fast though, and pulls back as the blades descend.
Still, he loses the sharp end of the spear, and some digits into the
bargain.
Howling in pain and outrage he staggers back, then charges, swinging
the remaining section of spear, one handed, at Leonardo's head.
Hunter, meanwhile, has siezed the other man's spear just behind the
head, and is attempting to disarm him. The man, understandably,
refuses to relinquish his grip on the weapon. This results in a
certain amount of grumbling from the big wolf, who starts shaking his
head while maintaining his own grip.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
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Leonardo shakes his head briefly in disgust and says with a note of annoyance, "Oh
how shabby... I really must start practicing more often. David
would be shocked at my subpar performance. Still... if I must do
this a few digits at a time then so be it, eventually you'll run out...
certainly long before I tire of playing with you."
Hmm... he was able to avoid some of my attack... he must be better
than I thought. Certainly he is no ordinary Shadow person or I
would have connected fully. Still... he attacks in pain and
anger... which means whatever reason was left in him has been fully
clouded and mistakes are thus inevitable. Let's see how he reacts
to a change of weapon?
Leonardo takes a step back and brings his left hand back behind him
again as the man begins to charge madly forward. This time when
Leonardo swiftly whips his left hand forward from behind his back... Piece's
blades have turned into a longer flexible thin lash which Leonardo
attempt to use to wrap around the spearman's legs and trip the man up.
[OOC: Based on Leonardo's ranking in Warfare, what if anything can he
tell about this man's skill and the fact that this man was able to
dodge some of his first attack?]
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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Leonardo's attacker suddenly finds himself face-down on the ground,
while his makeshift cudgel bounces and rolls away from him. He
struggles over into a sitting position nd starts pulling at the metal
cord that binds his legs, while making almost pitiful animal-like
noises.
Hunter suddenly jerks his head to the side, and there is a tearing and
splintering of wood. The man drops the remnant of his spear and
makes a run for the forest trail. With a glance at Leonardo that
seems to be full of grim humour, the big wolf lopes after him.
A few moments later, there is a single brief shriek which seems to be
cut off all too suddenly, and shortly after Hunter strolls back into
view.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo signals Piece to bind tighter and begin slightly
constricting around the man's legs, the harder he struggles to remove
the wrapped lash the tighter its grip. Leonardo winces slightly
at the final cry of the second man but shrugs as Hunter comes back into
view saying in an appreciative tone, "Well done
Hunter ol' boy... I can certainly see why Mistress Kalika was in such
good health... generally speaking of course. I should not have
wanted to deal with these three all alone... then again... I would have
prefered not to have dealt with any of them at all but... c'est la
vie. These three must have been pretty talented in their
woodcraft to be able to detect you and then follow you all the way back
here... I wonder where you picked them up from?"</purple?
With a small sigh, Leonardo focused his attention on the injured man
and said in a bored tone, <purple>"Well now Mr. Ongawa... it
seems your friends have come to bad ends... only supporting the old
adage that "violence begets violence".
Of course it is for that reason that I would prefer not to have to harm
you further... though your cooperation will be required. In fact
if you are a good boy, I might even heal that nasty scratch I gave you
earlier.
The two key points for you to consider right now are these: 1. you are
now all alone, you two friends will not be coming to your aid... at
least not again in THIS life and 2. you can tug all you want at the
lash around your legs but you'll die of old age or starvation before
you can move a single strand without my permission.
Now... shall we begin again in a more peaceful and civilized manner?"
Maintaining his distance so that he was just outside the man's
immediate reach, Leonardo squatted down on his haunches and stared the
man straight in the eye.
~~~ Well my pretty... aren't we in a fine
sticky mess... tell me, was it really worth all this fuss? Now
gently ol' boy... relax... ease your tension... release your pain and
fear... and tell ol' Uncle Jack a thing or two... hmmm? Who are
you, where did you come from and why did you attack my wolfish friend
there? ~~~
Piece[/i] can grant him a few moments diversion should things go badly
and that should be enough time for him to focus on Trump Defense as a
means of defending against any mental/psychic attack or backlash.]
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Seeing that Leonardo has everything under control, Hunter goes back to
where he had first landed after knocking Leonardo down. He sniffs
about for a few moments, and then finds what he wants.
Something white and red.
He carries it over and drops it next to where Leonardo crouches, then
moves to lay down where both he and the prisoner will have a good view
of each other. The man attempts to edge away when he sees the
wolf so close to him, speaking rapidly in his own tongue, "Arragabik nodlog heggadangisha sharrubak! Sharrubak! Sharrubak!"
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo grimaces at what he sees, sighs... and then grins at having his suspicions proved correct.
Never trust a religious man who claims to only live for his faith...
chances are he's stealing from the collection plate to pay for hookers
and satisfy his drug habit! That bloody Tarquin is about as pious
as an Amberite in a gilded whore house! Well... its nice to know
that something never change no matter where one finds oneself.
Hmm... so either this One is another "power player"... or he's got some
connection to The Enemy. I suppose this could just be Tarquin's
attempt at self-angrandisement... but I feel there's more behind this
and I can't help but feel the timing seems suspicious.
Well unless this Tarquin has found a secret undiscovered part of
Escher... he's not on this Shadow right now. But where I wonder
is he and how do I get there.... I guess Hunter must be able to travel
there, perhaps he can guide me?
The self-satisfied grin on Leonardo's face quickly disappears and is
replaced by a look of dread mixed with rage as he focuses on the item
Hunter had just deposited in front of him.... it was Simon's
handkerchief!
Damn that Tarquin... I knew it... I knew he had to be involved in
Simon's disappearance! It was another of those damned bloody
convenient coincidences! I knew something had happened to him
when I saw his home.... but... damn it... I was so hoping that I was
wrong! Damn it... I hate being RIGHT all the damn time! But
the question is... is this blood Simon's or does it belong to one of
the freshly killed men?
Why does David have to be dead!? I could really use his help with
this! He would have known how to approach this compound and he
would have been able to fight his way out again should it have been
needed! Now I have to go off and play the damn hero... a role I
am MOST unsuited and ill trained for!
Leonardo succeeded in keeping his eyes dry and his sorrow from
showing... though he felt certain that the Simon he once knew was no
longer in exsistance. He bowed his head in appreciation towards
Hunter and smiled sadly as he said, "You
have done well my friend, far better than I ever could have hoped to
have done. You have certainly more than repaid my earlier aid and
I release you from any bond or obligation. You are free to return
to your mistress who no doubt misses your valued companionship. I
can make no further demands or even requests upon your time or life...
but you have my thanks and we will part as friends for your loyal
service."
Leonardo turned towards the spearman and allowed his anger to flow away
as he saw the sorry state the man was in. As he locked his eyes
on the man's once more, he commanded Piece to heal the man's wounds but to keep the man bound.
~~~ I know that you are but a simple servant of
one who has betrayed others trust and probably your own. You may
not even fully realize what you do and I am loathed to harm one so
simple... "A man who kicks his dog will one day pull his own
sled". I am healing your injuries because I am not the same type
of man as this Tarquin who has enslaved your people! But I cannot allow you to hinder me on my mission.
I know not what to do with you... but I wonder... do you desire
freedom? Would you go back willingly if released? OR...
would you be willing to FIGHT against your oppressor? Would you
be willing to resist this Tarquin who has you people enslaved for his
own twisted purpose? Would you be willing to lay down your life
if it might mean that your people would once again taste the pure,
envigorating draft of... FREEDOM!?
Your master has my friend... or at least he did at one time. I
will either free my friend or see to it his killers never breath freely
again... either way I will see JUSTICE done! I am loyal to only
two things in life, my art and my friends... we have shed blood working
against each other, would you be willing to shed blood fighting
together against the true ENEMY!? ~~~
Piece[/i] repair what wounds it can quickly but still keep the man bound for the time being.]
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The man, if man he can truly be called, starts to calm slightly as Piece heals his wounds and it becomes clear that Hunter is not going to attack and kill him immediately.
He starts paying more attention to Leonardo, and the artist can now see
him more clearly, since he has stopped thrashing about so much.
Human, yes, but his face is a mass of old scars, which from their
symmetry appear to be deliberate in nature.
Even his lips have been cut away to reveal his teeth, filed to points.
The overall effect is that he has the face of some dreadful animal, or perhaps an evil spirit.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dear me... have I been mistaken? Is this really a human being
or even a sentient one at least? It seems to me that Hunter has
more "human" qualities that this creature.... how sad. I wonder
what could drive a man to such barbaric mutilation and
disfigurement? Can I even reason with creatures who possess such
simple and primative minds? What will I do with this man... if
man he really is... take the hook out of its mouth and chuck it back
into the lake perhaps? Certainly there are "bigger fish" to
pursue and bigger issues at stake.
~~~ Neither I nor Hunter are minions of the man
named Tarquin. We did not know about his construction project and
we certainly don't know WHY he is building that structure. We are
looking for a friend... Simon.. he was last seen in the company of
Tarquin but now he is missing. During Hunter's search for Simon,
he tracked the scent along the path Tarquin took. I need to find
out more about Tarquin and why he is building that structure and what
that structure is for.
Can you, will you and your people help me? If not... will you at
least agree NOT to attack Hunter or I as we investigate? Niether
Hunter nor I mean you or your people any harm. We would not have
hurt you or your two friends if you had not attacked... but you left us
NO choice. What will you do should I release you now? ~~~
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The man watches Leonardo's face, and finally nods and produces a grimace which might be a smile, then starts speaking again. His words make no sense, bet Piece is able to translate his intent...
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
With a slightly relieved sigh, Leonardo nods his head in
understanding. As soon as the man's injuries are healed, Leonardo
orders Pierce to release the man and restract back into the twin blades of the
guantlet... Leonardo may be willing to grant the man the benefit of the
doubt but "trust" does NOT come readily to him.
Leonardo backs away from the man and gestures with his other hand
towards the path in the forest along which this man had traveled.
In a somber tone, Leonardo says, "We
have reached an agreement then, neither side will harm the other as we
both share a common foe. You may return to your people Mr.
Gracht, neither Hunter nor I shall harm you if you leave in
peace. I regret the fates of your two tribesmen but you
understand that we had no choice... your actions left us with few
alternatives.
I wish you good speed back to your home and tribe, please do not forget
to tell them about us and our own mission against the sorceror. I
do not wish to kill anyone that I do not have to... I must conserve my
strength for the true Enemy. However you can be certain that I
will be visiting that structure and making my own investigation into
the activities of Tarquin with my own eyes.
Perhaps... perhaps we will meet again, perhaps next time we will fight
together against Tarquin instead of fighting against each other."
Leonardo waits for the man to re-enter the forest as his mind ponders his future course of action.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Gracht bows, then turns and heads back into the forest at a fast
run. Apparently he doesn't trust Leonardo not to change his
mind. Hunter looks at the human, and the blood on his face makes
him look like some creature out of a primordial nightmare.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo sighed with relief as the wild man headed back home... it was
good to be feared and it was nice to win... but peace was still
Leonardo's "natural state" of mind. Leonardo sent another message
to Piece and it transformed into a soft, gentle cloth. He then knelt down
beside Hunter and began to gently wipe away the blood and gore which
still covered the wolf. As he established physical contact with
the wolf, he began to let his thoughts flow freely between himself and
Hunter.
~~~ Well Hunter my friend, these are troubling
times indeed. I have come home only to find that the War and the
Enemy have beaten me here and they now have their claws sinking deep
into Escherian culture. This Tarquin appears to be yet another
servant of the Enemy... much like those Archons which Jack dealt with.
Only... only this Tarquin seems to be able to Summon Archons or things at least which are very similar in description.
These demons of which Gracht speaks... they are pictured as twirling
rings of fire floating in through the air... if that isn't what
attacked Jack then is must be a damned close kissing cousin!
The thing is... if the Archons were powerful enough to take out Jack...
and this Tarquin is able to summon and command Archons or at least
Archon-like beings.... just how POWERFUL is this Tarquin? Worse
yet... just how much does he know about Jack and those Jack worked with?
How much does he know about you or I... surely the fact that Jack
traveled with a wolf-woman and her wolf companion must be known... how
much of a leap in logic then to sumise that you are that wolf and I am
somehow connected? If only we could know for certain how much
information Jack revealed and what the specific details are that were
given to the Enemy!
These wildmen... they are strong fighters, though perhaps not quite as
good as David Ares nor Cyan the Bard... but still very talented
fighters. But despite that martial power... they will not
confront Tarquin nor these "demons", perhaps for very good
reason. Still if they who number in the couple of hundred and can
fight like an Amberite... if they will not risk direct open
confrontation... how can I possibly contemplate such action?
I am no warrior, I would know nothing of fighting were it not for the
hunts David enjoyed and insisted that I join him on. I am an
artist, my "weapon" is the paintbrush, or the fountain pen, or the
electronic stylus... even Piece was not originally designed for war! How can I go it alone... I
certainly can't rely on my fellow Escherians, they have no knowledge of
Shadows nor the Powers of Amber and the Courts of Chaos. They
would fall like flies and to no real effect... much as I might despite
my "advantages".
And what of you Hunter, what will you do now? You are healed, you
have repaid my earlier favor of healing by locating the last known
location for my friend Simon. You owe me nothing nor are you
bound to me by pact or oath such as you may have shared with your
Mistress Kalika. So what will you do now? Will you return
to your Mistress perhaps... surely she must miss you.
I would ask you to stay but I am not even sure what I will
do yet. Besides... if I do decide to be a bloody "hero" though I
am hardly suited to the role in any measure... I fear it would only
lead to your premature demise along with my own. Still... if I
die, it would be in defense of my home... but you have no ties to this
land or its people and I shall not fault you for seeking a wiser path
upon which to walk the Shadows. ~~~
Having finished "chatting" with Hunter as well as cleaning him of the
blood on his pelt, Leonardo moved back to sit against one of the
trees. He reached into his jacket to remove a deck of cards... an
older and apparently not very recently used Trump Deck. Leonardo
began to shuffle the cards and then flip through them until he found
the one he wanted.
Having taken the one card out of the deck, Leonardo kept it face down
while he closed his eyes and let out a deep sigh of regret. A
moment later he lifted the Trump Card to his face and took another
moment to study the image intensely as he tried to make contact....
~~~ Simon... Simon Gyon please answer me. It is your old friend calling... please respond. ~~~
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
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~~ Leonardo? Is it truly you? Have
you come to release me from slavery? Or do you yet even know of
my plight? ~~ Simon's "voice" is weak, tired-seeming, filled with despair.
~~ Perhaps this is just delusion. Picard
was raving before he died, speaking of seeing God laughing at
us... Still, if this is delusion, at least it is a pleasant
one. Speaking to an old friend one last time before I die from
the heat and disease. ~~
Hunter stands and moves away from Leonardo, only to lay down again where he can see along the forest path for a short way.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
~~~ Simon! Yes Simon it is really me, you
are not imagining this... AND... you are NOT going to die! Don't
even think it, I may have been gone awhile longer than I had planned
but you know I NEVER abadon my true friends! I am in possession
of a few of the facts, I knew you were missing and that it was not by
your choice.
I also... well... I met Tarquin at a service for the Church of the One,
you can thank Xander for that. I have no idea if Tarquin suspects
me or not but I really don't care at this rate... I'm just really glad
to know that you are still alive!
You keep you hope and your spirits up Simon! I'm not going to let
you die... remember.. you still owe me 10 crowns from that horse race
last winter! You always were bad about paying off debts but if
you think I'm going to let you use a little thing like slavery to
weasel out of paying me back... you've got another thing coming!
Ok... back to the serious business of a jailbreak... I need you to
relax and concentrate on the feeling of my voice. I'm going to
try something which if it works... when it works... could be your
salvation. I can't promise anything just yet until I try.
However no matter what happens... don't struggle or resist. Also
know this... even if what I have in mind does not work, I WILL come to
rescue you one way or another. Do not give up! ~~~
Leonardo takes a deep breath and then attempts to pull Simon to his
current location through the Trump connection which has been
established.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
There is a momentary resistance, as if something has tried to hold onto
the man, and then Simon is there, sprawled upon the grass. But a
different Simon from the one Leonardo remembers. This one is
gaunt and hollow eyed, clad in tattered rags, which are barely
recognisable as the remains of a once fine suit of clothing. His
skin is blotched with red and riddled with sores, and there is a thin
trickle of blood from his right nostril.
He raises a hand to cover his eyes, and Leonardo sees a strange
swelling appear beneath the skin of his forearm, then watches as it moves, slithering away towards the upper arm.
"Is this really Escher? Or is this some *cough cough* new torment?"
The voice is weak, rasping, not the strong vibrant voice of Simon, the
voice that used to sing bawdy songs and romantic ballads while he
worked.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo moves quickly having some rather nasty suspicions as to what
that swelling might me... it wasn't natural and Simon didn't have it
the last time, that spoke of trouble!
Leonardo extended a sharp blade like a scaple from Piece and moved to intercept the moving swelling before it could reach
Simon's shoulder. His intention was to cut it our and away from
Simon before it could move to more vital organs. Leonardo would
try to be careful enough not to damage Simon's arm and any injury left
could be healed by Piece later.
As he moved to deal with the mobile swelling, Leonardo replied in as relieved and reassuring tone as possible, "Simon
my old friend, you are both alive and home! Please trust in me
that I will take care of you... I promise that you will be back to your
old non-debt paying self as usual in no time. Do not worry about
the wolf, he is a friend.
But Simon, what is this under your skin on your arm? It has an
ill look about it... please hold still... I feel it needs to be removed
and quickly before more harm is done! Do not despair, I have
something which can heal even the worst looking wound... but first I
need to "lance the boil, to let the poison out". Hold on Simon... you'll be safe very soon."
I'll not lose TWO close friends in less than a bloody week!
What in the Shadows is that thing... and why do I feel so ill at ease
about its presence? Can this be what was responsible for the
slight delay in the Trump travel? It would be just like Tarquin
or any of his ilk to find some diabolical device to track prisoners and
prevent them from escaping! Please let me not be too late!
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The scalpel blade slices into flesh, but Simon barely seems to feel the
pain, and soon Leonardo has exposed the culprit, a pale yellow grub as
big as his thumb, which snaps its jaws at the blade as he digs it out.
"Escher... I never thought I would see it again. *cough* I won't have to speak to that... that thing in the temple any more."
Simon starts to laugh then, but it soon changes to a pitiful sobbing.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Piece[/i]?]
After removing the grub, Leonardo instructs Piece to form a "restraint" which can hold the grub in place. Leonardo then took the other end of Piece and had it form a bracelet which he put around Simon's wrist with the instructions to begin Healing Simon.
Leonardo looks into Simon's eyes and tries to steady his friend's
mental state using his own Psyche to calm Simon down. Leonardo
says in a gentle soothing tone, "Easy
Simon, don't stress yourself... everything is going to be
alright. You're safe for the time being and I will insure that
you remain that way to the best of my ability. Try to relax, I
have placed a... medical device.. around your wrist, it should be able
to detect any damage done to your physical body and attempt to repair
it.
Now Simon... can you tell me what this pale yellow grub thing is?
How long have you had this in you and how did it get there? I
need to know if Tarquin or one of his thugs is responsible for this
thing being in you.
Also... we may need to leave Escher soon. I know you don't want
to go as you have only just returned but... well... Tarquin still has a
powerbase built up here and I'm afraid our home is just not safe
anymore. We need to find a place of peace and quiet where you can
recover and we can both gather our strength for the upcoming ordeals.
Simon... how many more Escherians are being forced to work at that
temple? Are there Escherians who are working with Tarquin to
enslave others? Lastly... and I realize you may need time to
recover first...lastly.. what is this Thing in the temple that you speak of? I will need to know all I can
about it, both its physical characteristics as well as its demands
and/or motivations. However we can wait awhile before going into
too much detail.
But whatever we do, we must act soon... it won't be long before your
escape is noticed and they will come looking for you. I hate to
sound like an old fashioned mobster movie but... "You know too much".
However I will protect you and we can escape together to a place of
peace and safety... but I first must know if this.. grub.. might be a
device of Tarquin's to track and monitor you."
As he spoke to Simon, Leonardo began mentally reviewing his options for
alternative Shadows. He needed a place which was far from Escher
and preferably not too close to either Chaos or Amber, someplace where
things were peaceful but which also had modern medical facilities...
just in case Simon needed longterm care and observation.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Simon regards the grub with dull, uninterested eyes, and finally speaks, his voice stronger now, "Too
late... too late... Fearan was eaten from within by those things.
Hundreds of them inside him. At the end we thought he was still
alive because he kept moving, but it was only the worms fighting over
the best scraps."
"When his skin finally split, and they poured out of him... gods!"
"That place is filled with creatures like that. Insects that lay
their eggs in open wounds. There are even butterflies there that
will eat flesh, and... no... I don't want to remember them!"
"I did not see many of our people there, and only two who worked with
Tarquin... though I didn't know their names. Their garb was
familiar in style though."
"Ah... the thing in the temple... it was horrible, Leonardo. I
never saw it, you understand, but it could be in my head whenever it
wanted to. It would ask about Escher... how many people are
here? Are we strongly defended? It asked if I knew of
something called amber, but when I spoke of the gemstone by that name
it lashed my mind with whips of fire."
"Sometimes I dreamed of it, and always it appeared as a rotting,
severed head, screaming my name as it rolled along the ground, leaving
a trail of grubs behind it... "
Finally it seems that Simon can speak no more. He closes his eyes and curls into a ball, hands clasped around his head.
===========================================================
Re: Part 23b - Escher by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo places his hand gently on Simon's shoulder and tries to give
comfort with a reassuring gesture but he knows what his friend needs is
time and peace and safety to recover. Leonardo motions for Hunter
to join him and grasps the wolf gently by the scruff of its neck.
He then takes a deep breath and says in a calm, soothing tone, "Rest
easy my friend, there will be time enough for recounting later
Simon. You must heal and we must all leave. I know just the
place... a little "alien" perhaps but definitely a "safe harbor".
Hold on tight, you too Hunter, while I make our "travel
arrangements"... you need a "vacation" Simon and I'm going to see that
you get one!"
With a wane smile, Leonardo holds onto Hunter and Simon as he closes
his eyes and focuses on the Shadow he has in mind. He is able to
make a clear connection with the Shadow but first he makes a contact
through a personal Trump, ~~~
Mork calling Orson, come in Orson.... I mean Leonardo paging Dr. Crick,
come in please. Well hello Collins, I'm sorry old bean but it
seems I'll be needing your TLC for a friend of mine. Still he's
going to need a bit of time to heal and we can catch up with recent
events... I wish this could just be a social visit but that's life I
guess. I also have an interesting biological specimen you might
want to take a look at... a grub of some sort but a particularly nasty
and aggressive type.
I'll be there soon... by the way, you do still have a few places set
aside that are not entirely "pet free" right? Why do I ask...
well I'm bringing in a four-legged friend but actually he's not mine...
I'm "babysitting" for another friend for awhile. You know how
these things happen... they just show up on your doorstep and suddenly
you're taking care of them without word from the owner for days on
end. What's that... no I never took me for the animal type
either.. oh good you have a place for him, great. See you in a
jiffy then. ~~~
Breaking off the Trump communication with Collins, Leonardo focuses on
the location Trump fully and soon Escher has 2 fewer humans and 1 fewer
wolf upon its slowly corrupting surface.
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