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Part 34b: The word for "world" is "forest".
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Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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Aaron leads Jack and Dorian away through the village, even as the
downpour starts to fall with renewed ferocity. Soon, between the
drifting smoke, the curtains of rain, and the walls of ancient stone,
it is impossible to see the others.
Even the sounds of the jungle are muted by the rain.
There is a tunnel, which may, or may not, have been there before. It matters not. It is there now,
and Aaron decides to use it. The tunnel exits via a cave in the
flank of a low hill, still surrounded by dense jungle. There are
no buildings here, and the sky is a subtly different shade.
A strange creature is startled by the sudden emergence of the men; a
bizarre hybrid of bird and reptile, standing some nine feet tall.
It hoots loudly and turns to flee, and suddenly the jungle is filled
with others of the same sort, all running.
Hours later, with no signs of any more of the creatures, there is a
river and an abandoned boat hauled up on the shore, and Aaron indicates
that they should board it. Pushing off, they climb in, and let
the craft travel with the current.
The jungle thins, and the river flows more swiftly.
There is a high bank, topped by ruined buildings, where albino aligators rest in the oddly symetrical entrance to a large cave.
Always the river flows, as if the very land is tilted so that
"downhill" is always in the direction that they want to travel.
It flows through woodland and jungle, plains and badlands and deserts
where the sun (or suns) blaze with unwavering ferocity.
Finally it meanders, more slowly now, past a sprawling, stone-walled
building, which stands near the foot of a conical and obviously
artificial hill, surmounted by a ruined tower. Some quirk of the
current brings the boat to a gentle stop against a stone jetty.
An old man, with the tonsure and robes of a monk, albeit a high-ranking
one, judging from the material of the habit, attempts to hurry down to
the jetty, waving his walking stick as Aaron steps from the boat. "Hey! You can't stop here! Be off with... Aaron? It is you? Is it truly you?"
Aaron essays a shallow bow, and spreads his arms, and the monk laughs and greets him as an old friend. "The years may weigh more heavily on me, but it seems they've treated you less politely, my young student."
"Ah! But where are my manners? Gentlemen, will you accept the meagre hospitality of the Abbott of Glastonbury?"
Later.
Aaron and Dorian depart the abbey on horseback, and Jack stays behind,
in the care of the monks. The Abbott, Joseph, has promised that
they will do all that they can to purge whatever demons haunt Jack's
mind.
Aaron leads the way, circling the hill thrice, widdershins, and on the
third circuit there is a door in the grassy face, which had not been
there before. It stands open, and a strange, golden light flows
from within.
There is a whole world within the hill, with fields and forests, hills
and valleys. All lay beneath a sky which resembles a golden mist,
glowing as if lit from within by a blazing sun. Yet there are no
shadows anywhere in that land, except those of living things.
It seems that time does not matter here either. Four times the
two men stop to eat of the supplies provided by Joseph, and twice to
sleep, and yet the golden light does not waver in all that time.
Eventually they come to a stone gate in a wall of wood, and a
three-armed giant moves to open it. As they pass, Aaro deftly
flips a coin to the giant, who catches it with equal dexterity and
drops it into a satchel suspnded across his chest.
Beyond the gate, there is no golden light, and when Dorian looks back,
there isn't even a gate. Instead there is a valley, stretching
back into the distance. Mountains wall it, but such mountains.
This is the landscape that other landscapes aspire to become.
Trees as tall as mountain peaks, and mountains as tall as Heaven.
A lake which reaches along the valley, vanishing into the distance,
reflecting the cloudeless sky, which is of such a colour that calling
it merely "blue" would be an insult to all of creation.
"Aaron. My brother and I hope that you have good cause to bring this human into Ald Thiriel?" For a moment there is no sign of the source of the voice, and then two
wolves, each as big as a warhorse, step from the undergrowth
(which would be a forest in its own right in any normal realm) and
stand gazing at the Amber Man.
"And it had better be damned good! Though we would thank you for the horse flesh."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Unhorsing himself, Aaron strode forwards and fell to his knees,
discarding his long coat and his sheathed blade and setting them upon
the earth beside him. Raising his arms high, he took a great breath of
the purest air he knew he'd ever breathe.
Lowering his arms, he prostrated himself before the two great beasts,
head to the earth that even now sang to his bones. Even as he lay
there, he began to feel more and more of his memory returning, the
memories that held the strongest attatchment for Aaron, and thusly the
strongest derision for Jadelynn.
This world was for him, what Amber was for his extended relatives. San
Anyn was but a shadow of a shadow in comparison to this one world.
"Great Ones, I humble myself before the Sons of Ald Thiriel. Know that
I come with word from outside our home, a message of great trouble that
I feel all the clans must hear."
Never raising his eye, he spoke into the dust.
"This other that travels with me is a sorcerer of great wisdom, who
assits me quite well in our journey - his blood and flesh would not
feed you well, for he hails from a world far distant from our own. Our
animals now belong to Ald Thiriel, and as such, must follow the rules
of our realm. Feed or be fed upon."
He mentally winced at that statement, hoping Dorian wouldn't take it
too personally. Aaron knew of these wolves, though, and at last he had
seen them, they weren't nearly as powerful as he felt they were now. Something had changed in his long absence, and the change was quite drastic.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian dismounted quietly, yet remained by the horse, staying back to
let Aaron speak with the beings before him. Certainly, such beings were
rarely encountered, but no unknown to him. Not know the rules here, he
remained silent with his hands by his sides, but visible.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Ghir
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The wolf who had spoken to Aaron last, after emerging from the forest,
lays down, seemingly relaxed, though its ears continue to twist this
way and that, listening to every sound.
The other approaches a little closer to the two men and their very
nervous mounts. It grumbles deep in its throat, and the horses
calm. Dorian's even lowers its head to graze.
"The horses are safe, for the moment, but it is... good, I suppose, to see that you have not forgotten all of the old ways, forms, and courtesies, Aaron."
The wolf paces, while the other one, its brother, continues to lay close by, "Three
days ago, Aaron, I saw your arrival at this place, in a dream. In
that dream, a swarm of locusts followed you, but a sword of fire cut
them down ere they could harm a single blade of grass."
"The following night - "
"I dreamed the same thing." the other wolf interjects. "Though in my dream, you were accompanied by this human,
and the locusts were followed by a horde of all-devouring ants.
The sword of fire destroyed the locusts, and the hooves of the horses
crushed the ants in their multitudes."
"Yes. That is so. We thought we
should find out why we would dream such a thing. Last night one
of us would have, no doubt, dreamed it again, with further
embellishment. Except that we did not sleep last night, but ran
the forest ways until we reached this, the correct place."
Yellow eyes turn to regard Dorian, "Human!
Why are you here? Why have you come with Aaron, who is a part of
this land, and must, we suppose, be tolerated. Why do you follow
him? Not in respect to Ald Thiriel, but at any time. Why do
you grant him this leadership."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian straightens, but ever so slightly. He regards the animals cooly,
on the outside, while on the inside his mind marvels at the sheer
physical power they present. Given the close quarters, he is certain he
is powerless against them, despite his protections in place.
He chooses his words carfully. "I am Dorian of Samhein, a
world quite opposite of this one, in many regards. I am here, because I
follow Aaron. I follow Aaron, because I was ordered to do so, by one
more powerful than I. It is the way of my world, Samhein, that I owe
her my respect and allegiance, because she subdued me with great ease.
I challanged her, and she proved the victor by an nearly-infinite
margin, therefore I now serve her. In addition, she generously offered
to aid me with a personal quest. She did not owe me this thing, but she
took it upon herself, anyway. For that, I not only owe her my
allegiance, but my gratitude and friendship. She has asked that I
follow Aaron, and I do so, regardless of where that task takes me, or
what dangers I face. I will continue to follow him until she releases
me from my service. This is the way of my world."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Frikh
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"An acceptable answer, human. Loyalty and obedience to one who is more powerful is the way of the clans." the reclining wolf rumbles, "At least of those who remember. Do you not agree, Ghir?"
Ghir snarls, "Aye, Frikh. Acceptable. At least he did not say that he follows for coin."
"Aaron? Why are you here? What do you
hope to find? Answer carefully, for well you know that there are
certain things which should not be spoken of in his presence." a flick of the ear towards Dorian, "And things that you have no right to ask for, but which may be freely offered, if the cause is deemed just."
Ghir, meanwhile, remains standing close to Dorian, yellow eyes seeming to bore deep into his soul.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Frikh and Ghir had changed much more than he had anticipated. The fact
that he had run into them at all warned him that he need be cautious.
His elders deserved proper deference, and these two were no exception.
Yet their question had roused him from a long slumber, and even now he
felt his personality, his self that was long since lost, cast an answer
for him.
"Great Servants, you well know that each of our kind who wanders must
eventually return to complete the cycle. My time has come, and I wish
to return to the form that had been relinquished at birth, if just for
a short time."
He hesitated, then spoke.
"I wish to see with eyes unclouded by the things outside our world. Our
enemies are vast and powerful. The clans will only acknowlege me if
they know me by name." Now his head rose, and his single eye attemped
to behold the two great beasts before him.
"What I bring with me and the knowledge of our enemies must be known
and understood by all of the clans and packs. Ald Thiriel can no longer
stand at ease in shadow and silence, and it would be an insult to the
spirits of my ancestors if I did not fight on behalf of our world."
"I wish my name. Not merely my... human name, nor the one
my mother gifted me." Now his eye met that of Frikh, and it narrowed in
understanding. "Would you deny me even that? Without my name, the clans
will not know me. Without my name, I will never know myself, nor will
my prey fear me."
Meeting Firkh's gaze had been a challenge - yet he knew that it wasn't
in even Firkh or Ghir's power to deny his desire. It was Ald Thiriel
itself. Aaron felt but a boy in the presence of a king. He had never
been as humbled as he was now that he was home. The whole of the world
seemed to rest upon his shoulders, as if gauging his very right to
exist.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Ghir
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"You would address the Council of Clans, then?" the great wolf asks, his voice filled with quiet menace, "Though you know that they will likely deny you? Aye, and condemn you too, for bringing one of his kind with you?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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"I would," Aaron stated in response. "For by condemning this one human,
they condemn their child, for am I and my kin also not represented as human? Would they shun my mother? My father? Great A'araine himself?"
Aaron rose then, and faced both Ghir and Frikh, having become satisfied with his display of deference.
"There are secrets and powers upon this world that cannot fall into the hands of our enemies. It would show ill of me to not bring the council into this matter. I have gone without the air of Ald
Thiriel about me long enough as it is, and I know even now that I will
have to depart her lands no matter what the clan's decision, or what my
true nature would wish."
While he wouldn't step forwards, for he knew that these guardians would
take it as a sign of offense, he felt his hackles rise nonetheless.
"They cannot deny me the path that all wanderers must take. Never has a
lost child of Ald Thiriel been refused the vision we eventually seek.
You know, one way or another, I will represent the form of my birth. The council would only be aiding the will of our enemies by delaying my necessity."
"In the depths of my self, I seek the truth. Only by truly knowing
myself can I begin to know the truth of the universe around me. Even
now I feel the pull that all of us feel, for this world is tied into my
very being. It will not be denied."
To Dorian he looked then, and nodded firmly.
"This being is beyond the harm of the council, for he follows me at the
behest of another, stronger being. His form cannot feed the growth of
Ald Thiriel, nor of her children, for his destiny is not within this
world's power to command. So what say you, great guardians of my sacred
home? Do my words satisfy your curiosity? Would the voices of every
creature not wish to hear the tidings I bring?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian remained still, and kept his eys on Wolf, meeting its gaze. His
brow furrowed with concentration, and the will to keep his tongue
silent.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Frikh
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"It is not words we desire, Aaron. Nor can
your words, or your claim to be under the orders of a strong leader,
who we have not seen, prove the right of an outsider to stand in the
presence of the Council. Besides..." the great wolf pauses, yellow eyes fixing on Dorian, " ... this one may be dangerous."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian studied the wolves, meeting their gaze evenly. They presented a
serious physical threat, but Dorian had faced worse than these. How
long had it been since he'd face the shapeshifter and filled its gaping
may with molten magma? If it came to a confrontation, he would be
ill-prepared without many of his spells remaining, but he still had
enough strength to back whatever he needed.
Dorian laughs softly.
"May be dangerous? He asks, his voice a harsh whisper as the laughter fades. "You
have my solemn word that I am dangerous. There is no need to doubt
that. I ruled the world I spoke of, as I have ruled many worlds. Count
yourself fortunate I have no desire to rule this world. I go where I
please, and here it is my pleasure to go with Aaron. I go where I wish
not because I am unopposed, but because there are none who can oppose me and survive. If you want to know what right I have to be here, I will show you."
Dorian's body tenses and his eyes narrow. His fist clenches around his
crooked walking staff with whitened knuckles. His chest flattens as his
breathing nearly stops, frozen in his chest. Beads of sweat form across
his brow as his limbs begin to quiver. His pupils narrow, losing some
focus, his teeth grind and lips draw back showing his teeth....
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Aaron sighed, for he felt that even desptie his own words, Frikh had
been correct. After all, what are words to a wolf? So they required
action, as he also knew.
So as Dorian responded to Firkh's challenge - and it was a
challenge - Aaron merely stood by and awaited the response. Aaron knew
that apathy was death, and he'd have to choose a side eventually, but
he also knew that he'd come to Ald Thiriel for a reason, and that
reason would emerge one way or another.
Ilsefranvir was still upon the ground by his feet, and Aaron understood
that there was no way he'd be able to reach her before one of the great
beasts tore him in half. Instead, he would wait and see what occured.
They weren't done here yet. Not by a long shot.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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Frikh scrambles to his feet, and the brothers approach Dorian
side-by-side, but not so close together as to present an easy
target. Their lips are curled back, bodies low to the ground,
hackles raised, as they approach the man.
Then, as they come within range of an attack, they stop, and relax.
"Enough!"
"You pass the test."
"We deny your right to be here, but we cannot deny that you have the strength to force the matter."
"We will take you to the Council, but we cannot make them listen. We are merely their gatekeepers."
"Aaron. You are to be permitted to face the
Council, but only in your present form. You have forsaken your
true shape, like many others of your clan, and must live with your
decision. This is the Law of Ald Thiriel in these days."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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While he was tense for those few moments between Dorian's statement and
the positions of Firkh and Ghir, their final judgement was, honestly,
not very surprising to Aaron.
Still...
"As Calith's son, I understand." was his response to the great beast, and he bowed deeply, his arms crossed before his chest.
So that is the way of things, now. No longer is the path through the
Great Depths trodden, even in defiance. I wonder, though... why not?
No response from Arianne... at least, not one he heard or felt. Then he
remembered - they had been together for long, longer than most, but she
hadn't been upon Ald Thiriel.
The power of this world was deep and old, and he had a feeling it was the reason his companion was silent.
Rising, he bent down and scooped up his jacket and Ilsefranvir. Looking
to Dorian, he paused a moment to gauge the man's state of affairs. As
he did, he spoke to the wolves.
"Take me to the clan of my father."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian relaxes only slightly at the words of the wolf brothers. He'd
been worried the event might escalate when they began to approach him.
Almost, he'd found the need to resort to more serious means.
He bow slightly to show respect for their strength and will. They'd proven themselves strong, as well.
Turning to Aaron, he speaks quietly. "If I am to be a burden
in this place, I could take my leave. I can walk between worlds on my
own, in case I haven't mentioned it. And I do know worlds that have
what I require... without such complicatins. It wouldn't be long before
I met up with you and the others again. The choice is yours." As before, when he addresses Aaron, he speaks with respect in his voice.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Frikh
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Frikh whirls, stepping forward, a move which almost puts Aaron's head inside the wolf's jaws, "'Take me to the clan of my father'?
In this place you do not give orders! It is only due to our
kindly nature that you live still! We serve none but the Council,
and that through choice! Gather your toys, Runt, and follow
us. You may bring the horses, since you will need them to keep
pace."
"And you, human do not choose when you come and go!"
Seemingly angered by Aaron's casually-given command, Frikh paces the
clearing with barely-suppressed frustration apparent in every fibre of
his being, waiting for Aaron and Dorian to remount.
Ghir seems much more relaxed about the whole business.
Soon, but seemingly not soon-enough for Frikh's taste, they are moving
through the great forest of Ald Thiriel. The horses move at a
steady canter, the two wolves at an easy, ground-devouring lope.
They skirt the edge of the lake for a while, and great fish can be seen
just beneath the surface, basking in the rays of the afternoon sun.
Then there is a game trail which leads away from the water, and the
wolves accelerate for a while before stopping suddenly and waiting,
sniffing at the air, for perhaps an hour. Finally, with no
indication why they had paused, they continue on their way, but slower
again, as if some urgency was passed.
Up they climb, towards a deep notch in a range of hills, and down the
other side into a valley, shrouded in mist and still as the grave,
where all the trees are dead and blighted.
Beyond the valley, they find themselves crossing a river, as the sun
descends towards evening. Then there is a trail again, turning
and twisting until it reaches a place of standing stones. The
stones appear wholly natural in form, as if their arrangement were
merely an accident of nature, but each bears a stylised representation
of an animal.
Upon, or before, each stone rests a specimen of the beast it represents.
The Council of Ald Thiriel.
From atop its stone, a large cougar regards Aaron with a somewhat amused expression, like a cat with a newly-discovered mouse.
"You return to Ald Thiriel in such company, Aaron? You never did display particularly good taste."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Despite how much Firkh and Ghir attempted to cement their denial of his
place, Aaron still felt the depth of this world within himself. More
and more now, he was beginning to feel like... them.
They may have denied him the physical change, but the change of spirit wasn't in their power to refuse.
And when Firkh spun on him, he wasn't startled. He'd anticipated the
reaction, actually, and had even planned for it. There was fear there,
he knew, and not merely agitation at a Wanderer giving them orders. To
them, even though they accepted him, he had still been past the
boundaries of Ald Thiriel, and Dorian's presence was enough to warrant
their caution.
Like all animals, they didn't like sudden changes - or appearances.
However, Aaron wasn't stupid. He kept his mouth shut when Frikh turned on him, and lowered his eyes in deference once again.
As they continued on their way, on horseback this time, he spoke to
Dorian. He knew that he could never speak low enough to avoid the
wolves' hearing, so he didn't bother whispering.
"I need you with me. Trust me when I say that you'll be able to
strenghten yourself faster just by resting on this world than you would
anywhere else. Magic is in everything here, Dorian. Magic, and
something more. Should I need to pull Cyan and the group here, I'd feel
better if we were all together."
Looking ahead, his eye narrowed as a thought caught him. His eye
followed the trace of the scarred and blackened land as they passed
through it, feeling the sensation of hair rise on the back of his neck.
He knew that place... but it hadn't been as such before his departure. Aaron very nearly growled.
"And I don't think we'll be alone for long." he continued. "There are
many like me here, and while they may share some of the sentiments of
my wolf bretheren, they aren't quite as vicious. I'm hoping we'll meet
them soon."
As they reached the council, Aaron lowered himself from his mount and
stepped forwards. He settled onto his knees, bowing cross-armed before
the large cougar that had addressed him.
"My taste is not the reason why I have returned home, Elder. I come
with dire news from outside our realm, news that may or may not already
be known amongst the council."
Raising his head, he searched the stones for a particular one. It
shouldn't have been hard to find, considering it was the only one with
a human form sitting atop it.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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"What of this threat, Aaron?" the great cat asks, lazily inspecting the claws of one massive paw, "If it is a threat to humans, then it is surely a friend to Ald Thiriel?"
A pause, before, "Or so some would have us believe. Personally I say this is not always the
case. Humans were once part of this world, though they chose to
leave, and there are those who would deny that they were ever here, in
truth."
With a sudden bunching of muscles, the cougar leaps to the ground,
seeming to grow and extend as it falls through the air, until it is
larger still than the two wolves.
"And they say that it is the human presence in
our Mythtime that will destroy us if we are not careful. I say we
give no aid to Aaron, who has forsaken his shape and put on the shell
of humanity!"
"Or, at least, that is what certain of this Council would have me say. Instead I say this: humans... true humans... have not been here since Worldtime began. We know
nothing of them, save rumours and legends. This one... " an inclination of the head indicates Dorian, "This weak, pitiful, pathetic human defied Frikh and Ghir! Perhaps they are not as weak as we
have believed. Perhaps we would do well to aid them, if they need
it, because if we do not, and they win anyway, then they might turn
their attentions to Ald Thiriel."
Another sudden change of apparent mood, and, "Tell us of this threat."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Aaron suppressed a shiver at the realizations presented to him by the Elder. Either the entirety of his family line, the whole of them, had somehow managed to leave Ald Thiriel... or something else occured to remove them from this place.
If they were completely gone.
Either way, he suddenly felt very alone.
Taking a deep breath, he began, speaking in calm and even tones before the council.
"Honored Elders, long have I been removed from the place of my birth.
In the times since I was taken from here, I have come across a great
many enemies, but the greatest of these threatens the entirety of our
very existence."
Stepping forwards, he moved to better pay attention to his audience, turning so he could encompass the lot of them.
"If what the Elder says is true, and I'm not saying it isn't, then
perhaps my kind, those who shed their forms for the path of humanity,
sensed that this enemy was coming. If that is the case, then my message
is even more dire, for it may mean this enemy has already arrived!"
"They are known as the Archons. Countless worlds have fallen to them
already. Their countenances are of steel and fire, great wheels of
death that move out from their home in the depths of Reality and extend
to plant their seeds in the worlds surrounding. When they come upon a
world that fits their needs, they place a single black sphere somewhere
within that world. Over time as it grows, this sphere absorbs not only
the Power of that world, but eventually the very life of the world
itself. Some worlds they enslave, using the populace to further their
needs and desires, so that they may grow further and further, until..."
And here he stopped, lowering his arms tiredly to his sides. Shaking his head, Aaron now felt even more alone than before.
"Honored Elders. If the Archons, or servants of them, ever reach Ald Thiriel - and they will, one way or another - I'm afraid our world will not last long. If what the Elder said is true, then I am sure this world will not last. How can Ald Thiriel last, when the entirety
of her children no longer reside upon it? How can I even hope to help
defend our home, when my very form isn't even trusted?" Then, pointing
to the defaced stone, Aaron scowled. "Or respected? Nevertheless, the
enemy of Ald Thiriel even now burns through worlds, searching for a way
to conquer Reality in its entirety. If this council wishes to remain on
its haunches while Armageddon and Ragnarok bear down upon them, then so
be it."
Raising Ilsefranvir, Aaron nodded. His voice rose with new determination, or perhaps old determination remembered.
"This is my fang from now on. With this I will carve a path through my enemies in defense of Ald Thiriel and all worlds. For what better way for a child of wolves to die, then at the
throat of his sworn enemy? I will await the Council's decision, or
judgement, whichever they see fit to give."
As he turned to leave, he paused a moment and once more gazed at the council.
"Know this: There is no more time. A choice must be made, now or not at all. Should the council choose correctly, then I will see that Ald Thiriel be united as it never has before. Should they choose poorly..."
He let his words hang, and chose then to proceed out of their sight. Though not out of the range of other senses.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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The cougar sighs, then, "Hold, Aaron!"
The great cat starts to pace the Circle, "We
know of this threat, though we knew nothing of its magnitude, nor its
extent. Even with that knowledge, it is unlikely that many here
will rally to your aid."
"Understand this, Aaron. There are ancient rivalries and hatreds at work here. That clan will not enter into any truce or pact with this clan, for fear that it will be seen as a sign of weakness, or act as the gateway for treason and betrayal."
"Your clan, Aaron, is still here, in Ald Thiriel. They chose to
absent themselves from the Council, and refuse to acknowledge its
authority. For this reason their totem has been stricken from the
Speaking Stones, and there are few here who would listen to one of the
rebel clan, especially one who is, himself, an outcast from it."
"There is nothing you can do about this. Nor I, for that
matter. The clans value their independence above all, and will
not ally with a rival at the behest of an outcast. They see your
words as potential trickery. They cannot trust you."
Blazing eyes turn to lock with Dorian's. "Human.
You are a total outsider here. You know nothing of our politics,
and do not understand the background to the conflicts here, nor even
know those conflicts."
"You are a neutral party."
"You must speak to the clans. Persuade them to accept Aaron's words as truth. If you can."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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"Indeed?" That was unexpected. Dorian's eyes come up
slowly to meet the cougar, and regard him quietly. This was not
something he needed. He knew little enough of the conflict, and he'd
only met one member of the enemy; one who had offered an alliance with
them. A few words, he could manage to speak, but how many clans were
there? How far would he have to travel? Which one would finally try to
eat him. Visions of boiling hot lava unleashed on this whole clearing,
including the damnable Aaron for bringing him here, filled his mind.
"And..." Dorian says, oozing sarcasm. "I suppose I have no choice in the matter?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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A low coughing sound, and a disturbingly human chuckle, "I like this one Aaron. Are all true humans so... droll?"
"Yes, you have a choice, human. Stand before the Council, and
persuade them that Aaron does not over-play the threat, for personal
gain. Or leave, without the aid which Aaron has come so far to
obtain."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Oh?" Dorian raises an eyebrow, sounding authentically
surprised. A tone which he'd worked hard to banish from his
personality. Surprise was weakness. Surprise gave away too much.
This meant he could lay aside his plans for undermining the opperation and setting the clans to war out of spite.
"In that case, I choose to help, so long as Aaron wishes it. As you
know from our previous enconters, great one, I have given my allegiance
to him in this matter. However, I should say that Aaron has more
experience with this enemy, than I. I have met the enemy only once, and
in that case, that one offered us an allegiance against its fellows. I
have limited authority to speak on, other than Aaron's word. I feel
this would complicate my mission, and I will not lie to the clans for
their support. What say you to this, ancient one?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"This is... sufficient. You say you will
not lie to us, and that is good. All I ask is this: can you
confirm that Aaron speaks the truth, and that the threat he describes
is as great as he says?"
Around the Circle, there is an expectant hush, though Frikh and Ghir
look as though they might have something to say, but are holding their
tongues.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian ponders, bowing his head to think. He reflects on what he has
seen of the enemy, mostly on Cargach's world. He remembers the feeling
of power, the overwhelming numbness of being, the mind of the Archon as
he touched it briefly.
He takes a deep breath and speaks. "Yes, I have seen thier
works. Theirs is the power that devours. Of the black spheres that
Aaron speaks, I have not seen this, myself.
He pauses to consider, looking at Aaron for a moment. How long had they
known each other? It seemed like less than a day, though the travel
from one world to another made it difficult to tell. "However,
I can put forth a suggestion which, if accepted by yourselves and
Aaron, would let me speak with authority on the things he has
witnessed. If Aaron permits, I can look into his mind-- not to see
these things myself-- but to see that he tells the truth, though I have
no doubt of his honesty, myself. I am a master of mental manipulation,
if he has been tricked or decieved in any way, I will be able to tell.
I am sure this is nothing more than you could do yourself, if you so
desired, of course. I could then speak with confidence that Aaron
speaks the truth, and that the threat he describes is as great as he
says. As I said, I will only do this if Aaron gives his full
cooperation and deems it necessary. I feel I have seen enough evidence
of the threat to verify his words."
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron turned to settle his eye upon the elder. The explanation gained
certainly proved alot more than he had anticipated. While it didn't
bode well for a force from Ald Thiriel standing against the Archons, it
still gained him some sense of satisfaction.
He had a feeling his clan still existed here. Not only that, but their
desire to stay out of the nearly constant in-fighting also resonated
with him. He liked this Elder, if merely for his honesty. It was, after
all, honesty that drew him here, and it was honesty and a desire for
truth that caused him to answer both the Elder and Dorian.
Turning, he spoke.
"I concur with Dorian, Elder. I will submit myself to his request."
Aaron stepped forwards and settled down upon his knees, settling his
weight upon his heels as he was prone to do. He waited for word from
the Elder, but began lowering mental barriers in the process.
As he did so, he cast his mind back... far back, to the time in which
he first saw the black sphere on the world of the Gatherer. A sphere
similar to the silent one he held in his posession, even now.
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
With permission granted, Dorian proceeds to study and confirm the
evidence that Aaron presents. The process is long, and there are
many requests for elaborations and clarifications. By the time
all is told, the huge yellow moon of Ald Thiriel hangs high in the
midnight sky.
There is discussion then, among the clan leaders, while the two men rest, and finally, towards dawn, a vote is called for.
The cougar leaps back to the top of the stone, when all is decided, and speaks, "Aaron.
The Council supports your decision to come here, and to bring the human
with you. The threat you describe is, indeed, one of direst
concern to all here. We thank you for warning us of it.
What is it that you require of Ald Thiriel?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
It had taken Aaron much time to come to a conclusion as to the best use
of resources on his homeworld. When the time finally came, and the
question was asked of him, Aaron felt assured of his answer.
"I require two things of our home. The first request is that I act as a
liason between the Council and my kind here. Though I did leave Ald
Thiriel, it was by my own choice, no matter how young I was. I, as well
as my family, are just as much kin of the earth, and especially kin of
our wolf cousins. If I can speak with my family, perhaps they can allow
Ald Thiriel to take a greater role in this... Shadow War."
"The second request I have may seem simple, but it is truly something I
believe to be more complicated than it seems." Here he met his eye with
each of the great beasts before them, assured of their attention. "Do
as you have for thousands of years, and guard this world with your
lives. There are a few other things that must be tended to in these
times. Information is the greatest asset we can have against the
Archons. We must discover if they have infiltrated Ald Thiriel, and the
only way to discover that is by communication and investigation. I
believe Ald Thiriel can stand much stronger if it stands together -
within reason."
A small smile appeared on his face, and his gaze found the carnivores on the council - the wolves especially.
"Do not let my two legs fool you into thinking I've forgotten our
necessities. We must kill to survive here, and the deaths of those we
grow to care for and nurture do indeed grow tiresome. However, know
that the threat to Ald Thiriel is greater than any percieved slight, or
even the death of one single person. In order for us to survive, we
must be able to work together to achieve the survival of Ald Thiriel,
and by extension, the survival of all worlds."
"The eyes of Ald Thiriel see more than any other eyes in all of
Reality. Its ears hear far deeper than any mere mortal dare attest. If
there are those of you here who would rather die fighting against a foe
who would squelch the power and life of the world that birthed us, then
I will gladly stand beside you. What do our ravens see? Our great bats
hear? In their knowledge, and the knowledge spread through each Clan,
will we understand the threat to Ald Thiriel. I pray it does not exist
here yet, we must communicate to make sure."
Reaching into his jacket, Aaron finally removed the orb from within one of his deep pockets.
"This is a sphere that our enemies would use against the worlds. This
one I hold in my posession does not work, but there may already be one
like it upon our great world. It may be the size of this one, or it may
even be much, much larger. If you, or any members of your clans
discover one of these, then you must get in touch with me at all costs.
These objects can warp a mind and kill the foolish if it is tampered
with. More to the point, the size of our world and the sheer rampant growth of it may deter the search for such an object as this."
Aaron raised a finger and pointed it at each member of the Council, making sure they heard him straight.
"Know that this orb here is not functioning. It would only
prove me ill if I brought forth the very engine of our enemies into my
allies' midst. The first act of trust I must garner from this council
is the trust that this object, and the person holding it, does not
prove a danger to you or our world. I trust you by bringing it forth, and I hope you do the same."
With a sigh, Aaron returned the orb to the inner lining of his jacket, settling to one knee before the council.
"In my clan, I was known as Ara'an. I was the son of Calith and Enoch,
and thus am descended from the White Wolf, if the legends are still
believed. It is in these legends that I believe our power lies. Great
Council..." and here his head rose, his vision seeking the Elder cougar
himself. "Ald Thiriel is a conduit for... something. A great power that
burns through our very bones. A power that is as much a part of us as
it is of our world. I will do my best to fight for the protection of
Ald Thiriel, just as much as I will fight for the myriad worlds around
her. Even if I must fight alone, I will do so without regret. If I must
die, I will do so only during the death of our enemies."
Aaron rose then, and nodded as much to himself as he did to the Council.
"That is all I have. Protect Ald Thriel at all costs, and the power
that lies within her. I do not believe my time of... rememberance... is
at hand, but that time will come. The time when I can run as you do, and when my clans are as respected as yours once again. It will come, but my time is not important. Our survival is."
"The enemy cannot hide when the very voices of the forest speak to one
another of their plans. They cannot stand when the fangs of Ald Thiriel
work to rip them to shreds. Above all, their power will not sear us when we reap and bring forth the greatest strengths of our
world. Fight here, and I will fight beyond our borders. Now, and
forever until all of our enemies are vanquished."
Aaron checked Ilsefranvir in her sheath, and adjusted the straps on his
belt and jacket. The Armor Herzkrieg glinted upon his chest for the
briefest moment, before secluding itself beneath his jacket.
"If the Council has no more need of me, I need to see my clans. Great
Elder, before I leave you, I will see to it that we have a way to
communicate no matter the distance. If the Council has any requests of
me, then I insist you bring them to me. If not, then I humbly request a
guide. Long has it been since I hunted in our forests and plains here,
and the trails I knew in my youth are surely lost to time."
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Frikh
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"Aaron. You are being asked what you want of us. Your only reply is that we should maintain the guard we have always kept, and that you want to see your family." Frikh grumbles, "So... I wonder... why are you here?"
"Yes, I believe this tale of a great threat to all. But I fail to see why you felt the need to come here."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Ghir
-----------------------------------------------------------
"You offer to liase between us and your
clan. For what purpose? They left the Council, they were
not exiled. Are you so sure that they would welcome this liason?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I..." Aaron rose up and was about to respond, but he hesitated and stopped before he finished his sentence, shaking his head.
"What I desire is not important. I've traveled the worlds to find each
of my homes that seem to have the most importance, and some that don't,
towards our enemies."
"As long as I know this world is safe, I..."
Sighing, Aaron ran a hand through his hair. He was apparently unable to get past the one thing that was building up within him.
"Alright. You want to know what I want? I want closure. I
want to know the truth. I want to know our history, so I no longer have
any doubt as to my heritage. Beyond all that, I want this threat to our
welfare eliminated, and I intend to gain as many advantages as
possible, so I can assure their defeat."
"Seeking my relatives would be a good idea, but not until I see for
myself the power that we have guarded for so long. Only my hazy
memories and the feelings in my bones give light to the fact that Ald
Thiriel is home to something powerful. This something may be able to assist us in the defeat of our
enemies, or in the worst case, may cause our enemies to gain an upper
hand against us."
Leaning over, Aaron stretched his back and mulled over his thoughts before returning his attention to Ghir and the council.
"I cannot say for sure that my clan would desire to work with the
Council. Whether they would or not will have to depend on their
thoughts and feelings on the matter. Advantages could be gained through
the leadership of skilled scouts and warriors. On a world such as ours,
surely my clan would not be without such skills?"
"That is what I wish. To see the world beneath Ald Thiriel, that power
that I continue to feel even now, and that decision is one the Council
must make. Then, I wish to see my clan, if only to know their state of
being and their thoughts on this threat. You know of our enemies now,
and that warning satisfies me. If I gain nothing else from this
journey, know that it sits well with me to see this world under the
protection of such powerful beings."
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
For a while, then, there is more discussion, until...
"Very well, Aaron. We will grant you
access to the power you seek, though we cannot make it aid you.
THen you may visit your kin. Frikh and Ghir wi- "
"Impossible!" "No! You cannot!" "No!"
"Frikh and Ghir will guide you. This is the decison of the Council. Thus is it recorded in the Soul of the Forest."
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"That is more than enough, great Council," came Aaron's response, and he bowed deeply before them.
Turning his attentions to Ghir and Frikh, he raised his head somewhat.
"Guard this world and its power all you want, for as long as your lives
are sustained. Eventually, this world and its power will be seen by
those who are not of this world. Be grateful that it is I making the request of the Council, and not our enemies making a demand of it."
He sighed, not liking the idea of applying pressure to Frikh and Ghir.
Their positions were certainly respectable, and he did respect them
because of their place... but Aaron was beginning to feel familiar
inklings that he couldn't quite pinpoint.
Turning to Dorian, he sighed and caught the man's eye.
"You have my thanks for sticking with me. I would not have thought ill
of you if you had left me alone, for my random wanderings seem like a
wild chase, even to me." Nodding, he adjusted his sword and leaned his
head over, popping his neck. "Whatever the case, you and I will have
time to rest and plan our next maneuver. I will get in touch with Cyan
once I'm sure we have a place to congregate, where we will be safe on
Ald Thiriel. This place is quite secure, despite how much I weighed the
works of our enemies towards the Council."
Returning his attention to the two great wolves, he gestured out towards the forest.
"Lead on, great Guardians."
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian merely nodded his understanding to Aaron. He had the distinct
impression the man had bitten off something that might be difficult to
swallow, there; and he wasn't sure if Aaron realized it or not. There
seemed to be significance in the statement that they could not make it
aid him.
He turned his eyes upward to the great cougar once more. This one had
acted strangely since their arrival. It seemed to be unquestioningly on
their side, for some reason. It was as if it anticipated their arrival
and the threat.
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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The two great wolves move away, though their attitude speaks little of happiness to be doing this task...
The trail from the clearing is the same one they followed on the way to
it, at least for a little while. Eventually they turn away
though, onto a narrower track, which seems far less commonly used.
It turns and twists, deeper into the forest, and downhill for most of
the way, and the air itself becomes darker around them, tinged with
green. There are insects here, fat and slow, humming lazily
between the trees, but little other sign of animal life.
Soon they ride through a green-shaded night.
Finally there is a glade, and what, at first, looks to be some ancient,
baroque castle. Then the eyes adjust to the scale of the scene,
and it becomes apparent that they stand before a tree of legendary
proportions. Not the tallest in the forest, but surely the one
with the greatest girth.
"Aaron!" growls Ghir, "The Oldest Tree. You must lay down your weapons before approaching closer. Make any attempt to damage the tree, even the smallest leaf, and we will see your blood feed its roots."
"And we will do the same to you, Dorian, should you consider harming it."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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They reached the glade, and upon his first view of their destination,
Aaron was captured by a sense of awe. Dropping Ilsefranvir from his
back was the least of his concerns.
He remembered this place.
It thudded through his flesh, blood and bone. Staring at the great tree
before him, he knew that everything he had seen that resembled it, his
yearning for San Anyn of old, had not been for that world.
He had been yearning for Ald Thiriel. For home. To Aaron, this was Amber.
"You needen't follow if you do not wish to." Aaron spoke to Dorian,
though his voice was far away. The other thoughts that had captured
him, and the feeling that not everything was right had seemed to wash
away. He took his first few steps forwards, and began to walk towards
the Great Tree.
Aaron was searching for something. He had been since he hit the
Pattern. What? Truth? Understanding? A purpose for himself? Why had he
dragged Dorian here?
Suddenly, it was all too clear. His own violent actions, Jadus'
responses to him, Jadelynn's strange suppression of his memories.
Jadelynn hadn't wanted to command him, she merely wanted him to forget
Ald Thiriel, to forget himself. Jadus' violence towards him at
each meeting wasn't negativity, it was Jadus - Eiadus, he remembered -
asserting his place in their Clan, even when he knew Aaron didn't
remember.
Aaron's violence, his selfish desires, his defense, wasn't a fault. It
was his nature. He understood Dorian now because he could relate.
Before he had left Ald Thiriel, the only great equalizer in his life
was the teeth, and later the blade, of a brother by your throat.
As he moved towards the tree, Aaron grinned a vicious grin. His brown
eye sparkled, taking on the color of the leaves of autumn, the one
season that reverberated through him the most.
Raising a hand to the old, ancient bark of the tree, Aaron closed his one eye... and surrendered to Ald Thiriel.
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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"Don't worry," Dorian says to Frikh. "If I did care to
harm your tree, I'd be sure to deal with the two of you first. You must
realize this tree has no need of your threats on its behalf, don't you?" It was only a half-guess, but Dorian understood power and
representatons of power, whichever this was. Power was never undefended.
The dark man moved forward with Aaron, wordlessly. It certainly was an
impressive tree, but there were deeper questions. Why was it here? What
did it represent; or perhaps more accurately, to what did it link? His
brow lowered ever so slightly, in concentration as he began to study
the tree. His eyes moved slowly from side to side, then up along it's
length.
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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There is a rushing sound, as if a breeze blows through the leaves of
the ancient tree, though the rest of the forest is still. Then
the noise resolves itself into a voice, a whisper that echoes back from
the depths of the woods.
"You have come for the Secret? Why else
would you be here? I am Yggdrasil, you may ask what you
will. I cannot give you the Secret, but you may earn it, if you
ask the right questions."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian remained in silence, but he glanced behind for a moment, as if in uncertainty. What is this tree? He did not ask any questions aloud, feeling Aaron was the one here to
ask questions. He merely tried to do as he always did, learn and
understand; and seek a way to utilize what he'd found.
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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With his hand upon the ancient tree, Aaron felt at one with all of Ald
Thiriel, yet he knew within him that the full power that Yggdrasil
represented was distant, and beyond his ken or control. Still though,
he felt that he knew the questions he needed to ask.
The voice spoke in a whisper, and his response was one in kind.
"Great tree, what is required of me? What do I need to understand, or
gain, so that I may better defend Reality, and bring about the truth?"
"What is it that resonates, through, around, beneath and within me? The Pattern, or a ghost of something else?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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A clattering of twigs that sounds like a chuckle, then, "First you must understand that there is nothing you can understand. Not while you persist in thinking this is about what you can do. The Power you possess, which you refer to as Pattern, taints your thoughts."
"What you seek is not about you.
Nor can the Truth be brought about. The Truth is already there,
it must simply be revealed. Your question shows that you lie even
to yourself, perhaps unintentionally, so how can you reveal the Truth?"
The tree sighs. "Ald Thiriel needs a
champion, but Power alone does not make a champion. That is your
first lesson, and it may be the most important."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian turns to Aaron, with a sly smirk upon his face. "If there are to be too many lessons, we could be here a while. I hope you're a fast learning, dear leader." He speaks with a tone iced in lighthearted sarcasm, as if teasing Aaron.
Pulling his robes around him he sits down on the ground next to the tree and waits.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Far from disuaded, Aaron continued.
"Great tree, it has been said that the group I represent can be seen
amongst Reality like a beacon in the night, to those with the vision to
do so. Our powers resonate and cast a glow that marks our position and
activity. The next question I ask, is how can we use this to our
advantage?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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"Still you do not understand. It is not about how brightly you, or you companions, shine. The Power is not important, it is how you use it."
The great tree sounds discouraged. "Shining like a beacon will simply attract enemies to you, and make the task harder."
"Consider this: a great tree stands on the edge of
a meadow, proud of its strength and fortitude. It scorns the
grasses of the meadow for their weakness and small size. A summer
storm strikes, and a tremendous gale blasts across the meadow.
Afterwards, which of the two, the tree or the grass, is most likely to
still be standing?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"It is not power that I seek." Aaron's response emerges, post-whisper.
The answer to the tree's question was obvious to him, but Aaron didn't
wish to pursue it.
The tree was testing him.
However, he was satisfied with the answers from Yggdrasil so far. It's voice was distant, but understandable.
"Power I have. My very blood is power. Carve a path through myriad
worlds, and power can be as plentiful as the plants of Ald Thiriel. I
do not need power, nor do I desire it."
"Words are power. My voice is power. Even without the Pattern, I can
find a way to gain power. I cannot use what I cannot understand,
however, and I wish to understand the truth in all things. When one
asks 'why,' I can respond 'this is why.'"
"Do I wish godhood? No. Is every step I take merely another step
towards the next enhancement of my strength?" Here, he paused, but
eventually shook his head. "At some point, yes it was, but as I stand
here before you, great Yggdrasil, I can truthfully say that is not what
I strive for."
"Power is the eventual result of determined pursuit. One way or
another, power will find anyone who walks the path frought with danger.
No. At the beginning of my journey, I was the great tree in the storm,
but I say to you now, that my trials have brought me down into the
grasses, and I am satisfied in their presence. In the end, my power, my
life, my soul will end where all have ended before, in the hands of the
pale faced Lord of Winter, and even the grasses turn brown before him."
Standing straighter, for Aaron had grown somewhat weary with the telling, Aaron spoke his third and final question.
"Great Yggdrasil, I ask my last, and most important question."
Now his eye opened, and he beheld the ancient bark with that strangely
autumn-colored gaze. Gold, red, brown and orange all rested therein,
and he was pacified by remembrance.
"The enemy swallows world after world, and hollowly behind them wail
the cries of the chained and defeated. Against them it seems, my group
stands alone, with merely our blood and the forces behind us to protect
and defend not only all of Reality, but our own flesh. My question is
thus: What drives our enemies? What was is that my friend Jack spied so
long ago in the cabin of my bard, a visage that caused him to wail of a
madness uncontained?"
"What is the nature of our true enemy?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian tucks his knees up to his chest and bends his head forward in a restful position.
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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"I can do more than tell you the nature of your true enemy. I can tell you the name of your true enemy. If you so desire?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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"As wise men always say, the true enemy is within."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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"The name will do." Aaron responds, and awaits in kind.
I swear, if it says my name, it will put me in no fair mood.
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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The tree sighs, "Always you seek the easy path. Very well... the name of your true enemy is Time."
"There are, of course, lesser enemies. Those I know little of,
save what I have heard from you. But the enemy you must deal with
first, for without taking that enemy to task, you will lose all, is
Time itself."
"Time is your enemy, and the biggest ally that your enemies have. They have had years to prepare, and have done so with... "
"Wait! Something happens! What have you brought here?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Gods... the cube. How could I have forgotten?
Sighing, Aaron reached into his jacket and removed the object that
Yggdrasil referred to. It was one of two, the other being in Cyan's
posession. A cube, his, recording each place he'd been to.
Recording... and perhaps, transmitting.
"It is yet another icon I've discovered on my journey, great Yggdrasil.
A cube that seems to record each place I've been to, since I've
discovered it. Upon it are other places also, places I am unfamiliar
with. With it, I can travel to each place upon its myriad faces."
Another sigh followed his previous one, for his thoughts once more
dwelled upon Yggdrasil's answer. It was an answer that was not
surprising to him, and even more vexing, was one he should have
considered himself.
"This cube, are you familiar with it, great Yggdrasil?"
Perhaps then, his last question hadn't been his last... nor his most important. Maybe Aaron was lying to himself, even in the smallest ways.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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There is agitation among the leaves, as if the whole tree is quivering, "I know not what it is, save that it may be dangerous! Give it to me now, that I may destroy it before it can do harm."
The tree seems to calm somewhat, "You
carried it with you, without thought that it might be harmful to the
places you travelled to? Describe its function as you have
witnessed it."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Aaron took a moment to look upon the cube, though he did not concentrate upon it fully. As he did so, he spoke.
"I travel through each world, great tree, and those upon which I seem
to stay the longest become imprinted upon its many, unnumbered faces.
There is another like this, somewhere out in Shadow, and neither that
nor this have done us any harm so far."
Closing his eye, Aaron nodded.
"However, though I hesitate to let it be destroyed, perhaps it would be
a good idea to release it into oblivion. I know not what its true
purpose is, or if it transmits each place I visit towards another
individual. I will say, though, that I have run into more dangerous objects on my travels."
What he didn't say was that he had one of those objects, deactivated though it may be, in his other pocket.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian merely looks at the object curiously, quirking an eyebrow. "You
have been told you were a beacon... I must wonder if this cube is the
beacon, and not the individuals who carried them. When we return to the
others, we should inventory everything carried and make sure we carry
nothing else for them to trace us."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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"Your companion may be correct. Have you ever
returned to any of the places where you have taken the... device, to
check whether you have inadvertantly brought about their destruction by
carrying it there?"
The great tree is almost still now, the voice becoming quieter, "You
will leave Ald Thiriel immediately. I will not permit you to
stay. If you try to stay, I will send you from here. If you
leave by your own means, you will at least have some say in the point
of destination."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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Had they? Had he?
Aaron tried to remember, though it was certainly a possiblity. They
traveled Reality through many means, and that included the cubes.
Yggdrasil's order was understood, though Aaron was honestly somewhat
discouraged by it. Whatever the eventuality though, the Archons were on
their way whether he'd brought them there himself, or not.
Aaron sighed.
"I understand, Yggdrasil. We will depart at once, with no delay. Thank you, for all of your answers."
Turning then, Aaron began to walk back towards Frikh and Ghir,
pocketing the cube once again as he did. He turned to Dorian and nodded.
"I agree with you. The fact that these cubes could be marking our
presences in Reality is certainly something we need to bring to the
rest of the group. If it's true, then Cyan's movements have probably
been followed since day one."
"We'll find a safe, quiet place to sit and rest, and regain anything
we've lost. From there, I'll summon Cyan via her Trump, and we can all
get going once more."
As he walked, he shifted things. A blade of grass here, a larger patch
there, soon Frikh and Ghir wouldn't even be there. After a while, the
skies of Ald Thiriel, the home he'd lost so long ago, had shifted to
something completly alien, and the forest had become vivid plains...
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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"Thank you for your... time... great tree," Dorian smiles, as he turns to follow Aaron.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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As the two turn away from the tree, there is an odd moment when it
seems that the two wolves, Frikh and Ghir, silent throughout the
encounter with the tree, have been turned to stone.
The moment doesn't last long before Ghir snarls, "I thought you wanted to speak to the tree?"
"Never mind, brother," Frikh replies, "we
only promised to bring them here. If they choose not to use the
opportunity, that's their problem. Now, let's take them away from
here before they do any damage! Your clan next?"
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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"No," Aaron sighs in response to Frikh. "You may leave us, if you wish.
We will find our own way out. There are other things we must tend to."
He didn't ask about Ghir's question, merely let it be. One couldn't gauge the true extent, or abilities, of any Power in Shadow, especially one as old as Yggdrasil.
If Ghir only saw them stand there for seconds, then that was enough to satisfy Aaron.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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"Then you have wasted our time!" the two wolves immediately move towards Aaron and Dorian, hackles raised, "If not for the orders of the Council, we would kill you where you stand for this foolishness!"
Then they wheel about and move along the trail away from the glade and the Tree.
The journey to the place whe Aaron and Dorian will depart the realm of
Ald Thiriel is tense. The wolves are angry, and with good reason,
to their minds.
Aaron has come to Ald Thiriel, threatening the stability of the realm with his mere presence, and all for naught, it seems.
Finally they make their farewells, though with bad grace, and the two
men find themselves alone in a narrow mountain pass, where a single
slab of stone lays across the path, like the lintel of a gate.
They ride beneath it, and the way closes behind them, shutting the door
from Ald Thiriel behind them. When they look back, even the gate
itself is gone...
The valley they descend into is deserted and rocky, and somehow lacking
in majesty compared to the place where they have been; a tawdry
simulacrum of a wilderness, in a poor counterfeit of a world.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian seems lost in thought as they travel, hardly noticing the
wolves' annoyance. They were children who lacked understanding; that is
all. How long had they been gone, now? How long had passed with Cyan,
Berd, Jonnee and James? Time is your enemy, and the biggest ally that your enemies have. They have had years to prepare....
Dorian sighed slightly. He almost dreaded where Aaron would choose for his next vacation spot.
"Interesting world you hail from, Aaron. I can't imagine why one would leave it... impressive trees."
He reaches into his cloak and withdraws a palm-sized bronze compass;
the black iron needle spins aimlessly, as if it has no idea or concern
which direction might be north.
"Would you mind if I chose a place to rest; or will we be returning to the others, soon?" He tries to keep his tone casual, as if inquiring about nothing more
important than the weather, but he is strangely stiff, distracted.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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"Please," Aaron answered, his voice sounding strained and tired. His
eye, strangely enough, seemed to retain that autumn coloring behind its
somewhat pained expression, though he'd be the last to notice. "Pick a
point on your compass, Dorian, so that we may park in a more...
welcoming plane of existence."
He ran a hand back through his long hair, sighing with the efforts of contemplation.
Aaron figured he'd have to decide to let his family sit and wait out
the results of his group's actions. Aaron also figured, that this was
the last time he'd drag anybody, including himself, somewhere that
wasn't totally important to the mission. They couldn't waste any more
time. Period.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dworkin (GM)
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Dorian leads the way, himself led by the movements of his compass,
movements which bear litle relationship to the local magnetic field.
The journey is not long, a matter of four or five hours; down the
valley, across a covered bridge and into a stand of trees beside a
lake, where there is a house. The structue is of white-painted
brick, with a shingle roof and large windows looking out across the
lake.
Alongside there is a boathouse.
The house itself is locked, or seems to be at first, but Aaron tries
the door a second time, after a brief walk across to the boathouse and
back, and finds that the door is, in fact, unlocked.
Inside it is well funished, and clean, as if only recently deserted,
though the fireplace is cold. There are a number of hunting
trophies on the wall above the mantlepiece.
The clock on the mantlepiece has stopped.
The cabinets in the kitchen are well stocked, as are the refrigerator and freezer.
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian looked around the house. "This
should suffice. We should have time here. While I rest and prepare my
spells, I'll ponder what the Yggdrasil told you, see if I can develop
any further insight." He gives a noncommital shrug, as if he doubts he'll come up with anything.
Turning towards the kitchen he searches for food, solid and wholesome,
to hold him over until he is done. It'd been a while since he'd eaten.
He prefered simple, unprocessed foods.
Returning with a plate of buttered bread and vegetables, he again looks around, as if he's expecting something to happen.
"Perhaps if we had some sort of watchdog, while we rest... just in case."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Aaron
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If he were in a more relaxed state of mind, Aaron probably would have
taken the time not only to admire the trophies on the walls of the
boathouse, but also to admire the trees, lake... everything that was
but a reflection of his old home.
Unfortunately, Aaron was merely tired. Not exactly exhausted, but close
enough to it to have him find the closest comfortable chair and fall
into it.
He took off his boots, for the first time in a long time it seemed, and let out a long sigh as he considered Dorian's statement.
"A watchdog, hmm? Well, I'd see the sense in it, I suppose. However, I..."
His voice trailed off, his eye taking on a distant gaze as an all-too
familiar sensation rolled thorugh his mind, and straight down his spine.
"Just a moment, Dorian..."
Closing his eye, he concentrated on the sensation and sent a thought its way.
Cyan, is that you?
There was a moment of lengthy silence, before Aaron nodded and rose
from his chair, replacing his boots as he did so. Straightening, his
eye narrowed in concentration, and his voice was distant, though clear
enough to be heard.
"Dorian, we're about to have company. Make room for Cyan and our
company, but... be prepared. It seems we may have added a new member to
our jovial little team."
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Re: Part 34b - The word for "world" is "forest". by Dorian
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Dorian stepped back, giving room for others to arrive, in whatever
manner they were to arrive. Was it wise to accept new member so
suddenly, ones they'd never met? Had Fiona sent someone else? She had
plenty of reason to lose faith in them, so far. Perhaps she'd been
informed of their capers and sent additional help.
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