Part 28: The telling of tales

===========================================================
Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it isn't long before Jonnee reappears.

Fifteen minutes later there is a knock on the door, and several trays of food are delivered.  It seems that being aboard a warship which is currently engaged in a mission of diplomacy with a princess of Amber aboard can have advantages, not least of which is the quantity and quality of provisions for her passengers to enjoy.
Fruit, five different cheeses, various sliced cold meats, several types of bread, a dozen or so assorted pickles and relishes, pots of tea and coffee...
The trays are placed on a side table, the main one having been, somewhat inconsiderately, cloven neatly in two.  One of the crewmen eyes the split table and mutters to his companions, "Ah telled ye it were 'im, but ye di'n't  lissen.  Oh no."
Then they are gone, leaving the aromas of the food to slowly permeate the room.

Not long after, the rest of the group return...

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan slips in the door on Jack's arm, her face thoughtful.  She eyes the rest of the room with some embarassment, knowing full well they've been waiting while she and Jack discussed some items of some import (though not to the quest, per se) with Aaron and Andrej.  With a nod to the rest still in the room, she wanders to a chair, allowing the somewhat tired-appearing Jack to sit while she paces, amber gaze flickering about the chamber, taking note of the food, the people, the current mood.

Berd, for his part, immediately begins slavering.  The little dragon looks at Jack with some concern, then shrugs, an alarmingly human gesture coming from the creature.

A moment later, a small winged faerie crawls out from under the table, immediately picking up a plate and spearing several slices of meat, pieces of bread, various pickles, and most certainly some cheeses on her little, gleaming sword, and deposits them one by one on a plate.  The other little faerie materilizes as well, now armed, armored, and burning with a light, fiery aura.  It hovers between the first faerie and Lenore; the message is fairly (faerly?) obvious.

With easier pickings nearby, no doubt the raven will seek food elsewhere.

The first faerie, struggling, manages to push her way under the plate and lofts into the air, wings buzzing.  The second faerie flies close escort on the way back to Jack...to deposit the plate in his lap (food side UP).  Both faeries heave deep sighs, then flit back to the table for another run.

This time the plate keeps getting heavier.  Meant for Berd, no doubt.

"Coffee, Jack?  Anyone else?"  Cyan looks around inquiringly at those left in the room.  "I prefer tea, myself, but I am more than willing to do the pouring."  Leaving Jack in Berd and Lenore's care for the moment, she wanders to the table, Kirilindë slung over one shoulder.  Getting a cup of tea for herself, she waits to see if anyone else is interested.

The faeries begin their second run, slowly labouring over to where Berd is perched.  Berd watches Lenore with narrowed eyes.  While he can tolerate her poking and prodding around Jack, food, apparantly, is OFF LIMITS.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Following sortly after the pair, Andrej quietly slips inside, his face neutral, his thoughts obviously elsewhere. He sits down on a chair with his back to the wall, his right ellbow on the armrest and his chin in his right hand in a semi-classical 'thinker' position.

As Cyan asks anybody about coffee or tea he shakes his head slowly and mouths 'No, Thanks' at her as she looks at him. He keeps on waiting, his thoughts his own, as he waits for Aaron to start the meeting.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
       The dark bird gave a melodramatic production of not noticing Berd or the Fairies, carefully preening her own feathers and turning a blind-eye.  After enough time had passed to make her point she leapt from Jack shoulder swooping and wheeling  in the room.

     Snatching up a piece of meat she pulled up in a flurry of black feathers, only to land in the shadows of a buttressing beam near the ceiling.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
       “Yes, coffee please Cyan, thank you.” Jack said softly eyeing the fairies with faint distrust. He poked through his food before eating for the first time on over a day. Nodding to the fairies with a soft “Thank you.” It was not the ravenousness hunger that members of the party had seen before in the shadow man when he was tired  Though the hunger burned so badly inside of him the his muscles hurt, it was all he could do to pick at the food no matter how good it was.

      Where is everyone? Jonnee and Kaelyn are missing. . .”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James heaves himself upright and walks over to one of the tables laden with food.  Taking a plate he helps himself to a selection from the buffet, mostly meat and bread.

James briefly considers whether he should help Cyan with the drinks.  Deciding that he doesn't have enough hands free, he says, "Tea please, Cyan, black, no sugar."

"Uh, Jack, Jonnee's behind you."


===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
        Jack glanced back over his shoulder and his eyes focused, “Why so he is,” he said in response to James. “Jonnee, you naughty boy, sneaking up on an old man like that. You could have given me my death of fright.” Jack chided the street tough before chuckling.

      “So what did we miss James?” Jack asked with a weak grin “Have you all accomplished anything, been gossiping like yentas or been sitting here in a silent Mexican stand off? Unwilling to venture anything, but watchful glances?”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan watches Jack from where she stands at the coffee and tea, her emerald eyes full of worry.  Carefully she pours out a cup of coffee for him, then tea for James, holding it out to the well-dressed man so he can juggle it with his spare hand.

The coffee she brings to Jack with a couple of lumps of sugar, and a small cup of milk she sets on the sitting table beside him.  Her free hand touches him on the shoulder, then the Bard moves back to the serving table to take any more orders.

Berd, for his part, continues to eat as the faeries hold the dish in front of him, bored expressions on their faces.  Unlike his usual manner, the drake picks over his food almost leisurely...or almost as if his interest has faded.

But that would be impossible.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"We have done nothing more than sit here like the obedient underlings you presume us to be, or do you suspect some mischief of us?" Dorian smirked again, the same sardonic smirk that seemed to be his favorite expression. It was a light jab, and a sarcastic one, but it was a deserved one, he felt.

"So, is there more talking planned, or are we now ready to retire?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"From my understanding," Cyan replies quietly, taking a sip of her tea, "should everyone be capable of keeping awake, we will be telling the tale of our struggle thus far, so that all may be appraised of our findings and the Enemy.  Thus, any and all might be able to contribute thoughts and strategies, though it will be up to Aaron and Andrej to decide our final aim."  Appraising the man for a long moment, she looks down to the supply of different teas.

"You appear the sort to enjoy herbal tea," Cyan notes.  "There are several jars here, if you would like some."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian smiles, and seems almost pleased by something. "This sounds like an excellent idea. I am thirsty for information on this matter. I would also accept some tea."

Looking over the jars of different teas, he muses, "I am not familiar with these. Perhaps you could recommend one."

Though it was subtle, it was a test of his own resolve. Never before would he trust the recommendation of a stranger, they could easily use the opportunity to poison him. He had to teach himself to show some trust, if they were to trust him in return. It was the only way they could work together, though he still loathed the thought.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well," Cyan says, looking at the different teas, "I prefer a blend of peppermint and chamomille, myself."  Her hands quickly take the proper proportions of each, and fill a small, steel ball with them.  The ball is dipped into a cup of steaming water.  "Simply remove the ball when you feel the taste is too your liking - the longer, the stronger," she notes.  "Some say that this combination aids in sleep, but personally I have never found it so.  I merely enjoy the taste."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
         Jack glanced tiredly at Dorian as he took the coffee with a soft “Thank you.” to Cyan.  “You are no more an underling then I am Dorian. So cut the BS and suck it up. A operation like this needs a leader to keep it directed if nothing else. The least we can do is back him up and try to do this right. It would be the civilized thing to do.” Jack gave Dorian a soft knowing smile.  “No I wasn’t worried about what you were up to, but I knew if I commented it would needle you a bit.”

    Jack mad a face at the thought of peppermint “Mint? Blea….”  he said taking a sip of coffee “So where's our leader and the merc?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian lost his smile. Not even the sardonic smirk appeared to replace it.

He had dared hope for a moment.

"I see. How silly of me to fall for your ploy, then. I am humbled by your manipulative art, Master Jack. I certainly should have known better than to needle back, in response. It certainly does clarify who is able to speak without reprocussion, doesn't it? I shall endeavor to take these needlings with more humility in the future. And may I be so bold, as to ask what you hoped to accomplish by inciting me, then? Was it merely for the pleasure of scolding me for responding to it?"

Glancing at the tea, then to Cyan, he says more softly, and with a tone of sincere regret. "I'm sorry, but I've changed my mind. The thought of refreshment is no longer palatable to me."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
            Jack shook his head wearily “No it was not for any pleasure. It was in the hopes that all of you would start talking if you weren’t and be ready to discuss things if you were not...” Jack picked at a slice of bread. “I’ll tell you what, if you want to be mister sunshine and optimism I won’t question you any more on it.”

Jack gave up on the dark man, then and there. He was to tired for that garbage.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Ah, good," Dorian smiled. "Then we are back to talking, which is precisely where I wanted to be-- and, I believe, where we were before I was distracted. I am ready to begin."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Giving Dorian an apologetic look with ruby eyes, Cyan puts the teacup down and rubs her own forehead.  Silently she moves away to stand before the porthole and stare out over the water.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian's dark eyes follow Cyan's movement. He bites his lip and furrows a brow.

Now more softly, he says. "I.... apologize. Despite my good intentions, I have no skill at... playing nice, I think you would say. This is complicated by a century of distrust and paranoia. I will try to prevent myself from lashing out like that in the future."

His eyes move back to the tea, and he begins to finish the peppermint and chamomile tea, as Cyan showed him.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
     Jack glances over at Dorian for a moment before slowly standing and silently walking to the door with a measured stride. Without a word he  stepped out into the evening.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
        Once he left the cabin Jack allowed himself to relax, he hunched forward and slightly and his limbs began to tremble from weariness. Perhaps more…   He had seen it all in two looks, and they were right . He had not been well, not since the Archon’s broke him and perhaps before that.  She had to apologize for him, and there was no excuse for that. How many times? How many times?

         Jack moved back to the aft and pulled the cover off of  the ships launch. Settling down inside of hi he pulled from his pack paper and a charcoal stick and he began to write.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd looks up with annoyance when Jack deposits him on the chair.  The Faeries flit to the ground, where they set the plate down before disappearing.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"It is a complicated situation, Dorian," Cyan replies quietly, still staring out the porthole.  "I hope we can resolve it for everyone.  I hope we can all work together, without rancor, but I know that it will not be easy for us."

She grows silent for a moment, her amethyst eyes far away.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James watches the interplay between Cyan, Jack and Dorian with interest, his gaze moving from one to the other.

"Dorian," he says quietly, "I think you and Jack share something in common beyond your bewildering psychic talents.  You have come from a place where everything that moves would hurt you if it could.  I think Jack has come from places where 'everything' has succeeded, maybe more than once."
...
"I'll be interested to hear what you think of the tea.  I can't stand the taste of chamomile myself."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian takes a sip and looks into the cup. "The tea is pleasant," he says. "It is different, but I could get used to it. Thank you."

"Perhaps Jack and I are too similar, and thus always doomed to be at odds. That would be unfortunate; I will have to act with caution around him to prevent it from happening.

I would go speak with him now, but I believe it would only deepen the wound, so I shall remain here."


===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan stares at James miserably, her dull jade eyes shimmering slightly.  "He...there have been so many losses for Jack, so much pain in his life and especially of late.  James is correct - you and he may be more similar in your experiences than either might imagine."  She seems distracted, somewhat lost.  "I am glad you enjoy the tea, Dorian.  I find, James, that the peppermint takes away the dullness of the chamomille and..."

Abruptly the Bard sways slightly, then turns an accusing gaze towards Berd.  The dragon stares back at her blandly.

"Where is he?" she hisses.

Berd blinks glittering eyes, expression not changing a whit.

"Berd, tell me!"

The little dragon merely stares back at her for a long moment, then suddenly bursts off the chair in a blur of movement to perch on a beam, just out of reach.  Cyan sways like someone checking themself from moving forward.  "Curse you, tell me!" she cries up to the dragon.  Berd, for once, eschews any blowing of raspberries or other mockery, simply staring down at her with sad, glittering eyes.

"Jack...I do not know where he is, Dorian," Cyan states, fumbling through her palanquet cards.  "He may have left the ship, may be in a different world by now.  Gorthaur take you beast, I will-"

She comes up empty.  Up on the rafters, Berd reaches beneath his wing, slowly coming out with a number of cards.  His dextrous claws fan them before her furious eyes.  Jack.  All Jack.  They disappear almost immediately, before anyone else can attempt anything (should they so desire).

Breathing heavily, Cyan stares up at the little drake, her eyes having shaded over to obsidian.  Pain, fear and anger war on her face, and she spins from Berd, turning to the porthole again, one hand on either side of it, knuckles white.  "Berd.  The cards."  There is a pause.  "No.  Now."

Berd, obviously, declines.

"When?"  Another pause.  "Very well," Cyan whispers, her voice sounding like it has been dragged through broken glass.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee loads up a plate with as much food as he can balance on it.  He's done a fair bit of running today, and his stomach is convinced that his jaws have been wired shut.
He forces the food down as quickly as possible, then goes back for more.  With his metabolism, it's not like he has to worry about his figure.  Even while he's eating, he still pays close attention to what is going on in the room.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James plate hits the table so hard that it rattles for a second before settling, the remnants of his tea makes a puddle by one of the fruit platters, and James is headed for the door before the implications of what Cyan has said, and Berd's reaction, sink in.

James slows, coming to a halt near the door.
"Cyan, it seems Jack wants a little space.  I'm sure Berd would not have taken your cards if he," James voice carries a question here, unsure of the proper pronoun - or even the correct species - for the little dragon,"thought Jack was in any danger."

James turns to Dorian, "Could you find Jack if we needed to?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"If he has not left this world, I could open a channel to his mind, but he may not want to talk to me. Then it would take a battle of our wills, which would not get us very far. Magic is usually limited to work within the world that it is in."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Yes.  Jack has made a few decisions regarding his presence, his powers, and other things, and judges them dangerous," Cyan whispers.  "Berd knows where he is, the little beast, but will not tell me."  Turning her head, she shoots Berd a venomous obsidian look - wasted, for the little dragon is watching James with interest, seeming to have lost his care for Cyan's state of mind.

"There is little we can do," she grates, picking up Kirilinde and setting herself down against the wall, beside her pack.  Slowly the Bard draws up her knees, capturing the sword between them and her shoulder, and drags over her harp case, opening it and bringing out the only possession she has that doesn't look like it's been dragged through a war.  The harp shimmers slightly in the dimmer, cabin light, the silvery inlay picking up the light and throwing it back in ripples, the strings a rainbow glimmer in the air.  A few discordant notes drop from it as Cyan touches the instrument, then (despite her unusual position) she slowly begins to play something soft and ethereal, leaning her head back against the wall.

"I know not if he has left the world.  He could yet be ship-board.  Aaron will know what to..."  Cyan slowly shakes her head, the darkness falling away from her eyes, and continues to play.  Her gaze moves to Andrej, as if wondering what he will say.

"I am sorry about your tea, James," she murmurs after a moment.  Almost ridiculous to be worried about such things at a time like this, but Cyan's tone is very serious.

Berd, for his part, merely continues glancing around, his gaze jumping from James, to Jonnee, to Dorian, to Andrej.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
The door flew open, and Aaron stepped into the center of the room, his black duster pooling around his ankles as he did so. The door closed behind him, and he halted.

He turned in a complete circle, making sure he met eyes with each and every person in the room. It was apparent that he was agitated, angry, even. Whatever the case, Aaron didn't seem in the mood to take any crap.

His eye narrowed viciously. Jack was gone.

Speaking through gritted teeth, Aaron took a breath and began.

"Each one of you listen to me very carefully. I refuse to tolerate aggravated issues between members of this party. If you can't get along with someone, you better get the hell over it right now. None of us are schoolchildren, and I refuse to treat hardened warriors, warriors expected to act when told, as such."

"I will deal with dissention between members as harshly as necessarry. I will bide no complaint! Every single person in every single world is at stake in this mission, and I refuse to neglect their plight just because someone isn't enjoying the ride!"

Stepping back to get every person in his gaze, he made sure he got their attention.

By now, he was sure he had it.

"This is war, and war requires sacrifice. The ulitmate sacrifice, if necessarry."

Crossing his arms infront of his chest, he narrowed his dark-eyed gaze, not letting it settle upon any one person for long.

"Do we understand eachother? Are there any questions?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej looked up at Aaron, startled awake, the adrenalin starting to course through his system. He had not noticed being THAT tired and never knew he had fallen asleep, even for just a moment. Now Aaron was in the room, very angry, Jack was gone and he had lost a few minutes of continuity.

He takes a deep breath, then scratches his head.

I'm sorry, but I seem to be more tired than I thought. We should conclude our meeting soon, perhaps, and retire."

He shrugs and looks at the others present.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Of couse, Aaron," Cyan says quietly in answer, topaz eyes turning his way.  His anger is quite inspiring, in fact.  Fiona made a good choice when she chose him.  I do believe he will follow through.  Good - this group needs a strong leader to keep it together - we are all individuals, from different places with different ways.  We all have something to offer.  All of us.

She glances up at Berd for a moment, then sighs in defeat.

At that, Berd drops down from the ceiling, floating to land on her shoulder, profferring the cards.  Taking them, Cyan tucks them into her pouch.  A muscle in her jaw clenches for an instant, but that's all.  Time enough for those later.  Jack has his decisions to make...as Aaron says, he is a grown man.  Far more experienced than myself.  Her heart aches, but she nods.

Kaelyn is not with Aaron.  That comes as something of a surprise, though likely it shouldn't, given the mood in which Aaron seems to have fallen.  Cyan glances to Berd for a moment, frowning, then slowly nods, annoyance flickering across her face.  Ah.  I see.  She slowly scans the group in the room.  Andrej, Aaron, Dorian, James, Jonnee and Hunter.  Myself and Berd.

Someone is definitely missing, and the empty space gnaws at her.

The Bard waits to see if anyone does have any questions for Aaron.  A worried glance to Andrej, then - the man appears bone-weary.  Much as ourselves....

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Appearing bored, and on the verge of yawning, Dorian says, "Still no question, and still read to begin."

For some reason this group of individuals was good at telling each other to get along, but they couldn't seem to actually get much done. Talking would only carry them so far.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James has to step back sharply to avoid being hit by the door as Aaron enters.  He meets Aaron's eyes calmly despite the anger and frustration he can see Aaron is working hard to hold in check. Guess that means he's spoken to Kaelyn...and she's not with him.

Some of the old instincts kick in at Aaron's tone of command. "Crystal, sir."

"Sorry Aaron, that means I understand perfectly.  Just one question, when do we leave?"


===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn enters a short time later, but she has obviously changed her clothing to convey a message though whether the others will understand it or not remains to be seen. She is wearing a kimono and tucked into the obi is the daisho paired swords. There is no sign of jewelry on her hadns though the hilt of the katana bears as phoenix in the silk wrapping the hilt.

"You said you wanted me here for the meeting, I am here." Her voice containing the tones of a soldier under orders only.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian looked Kaelyn over. He didn't notice the change of clothing so much as the change of attitude. On his world, it would have been easy to interpret. She has challenged his authority, as was her right, he had bester her in a battle of psyche and power. She now knew her place and accepted it. There was no shame in losing; it was expected that one challenge one's masters, to learn if one should really be serving them. On Samhain, you fought for the right to rule. In this case, Fiona has established that dominance, and named Aaron her agent. Thus, there would be no challenge from Dorian.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
His anger brought down to a concentrated focus, he began to assemble an idea on the plan at large. Now that Kaelyn was there, with whatever she'd bring to the table, he could begin. Adjusting his position so everyone could be included, he did so.

"I'm going to make this brief, so all of you can get some rest. I know some of you may not need it, but all of you should get some anyway. Here's the plan, which can change at any time."

"While I currently have hardly any information on this at all, I seem to remember Leonardo mentioning a Project Callisto. Jack also, has reminded me of this. If it is indeed a transmitter of some sort for the Archons, as they say, disabling it may allow us to gain an advantage."

His eye found Cyan, and he gave her his attention.

"Cyan, do you have any information on this subject? I'm afraid that I wasn't in the vicinity at the time of its impartation." For a moment, a frown creased his features. "If Jack has as much information on it as I believe he may, I might have to find him, if just for that fact."

Damnit. He's not making this easy for me... and I need him for much more than just the information...

Be reassured. You have support here from the others, and they will follow your orders. Cyan's knowlege, and the cumulative skills of the group should suffice. Be wary, though, and cautious.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Project Callisto..."  Cyan shakes her head.  "I fear I know little other than that.  We DID encounter a 'transmitter' during our rather brief war against the Archons, and it does seem to match Leonardo's description.  There are many legends through the Myriad Worlds of 'Callisto' - the name is not uncommon."  She shrugs.  "The 'transmitter' on the world we attacked was preparing to send psychic energy at us, to attempt a counterattack.  It failed - Berd divined the plan and Jack destroyed the, ah, 'transmission tower', utterly.  A pity.  I should contact THX 1138 or Prime and inquire as to whether his people have discovered anything of interest."

Her lips thin and she looks down.  "I fear...I do not know how to contact Jack.  Berd might, though if Jack so wishes he will remain untouchable.  Aaron," she continues, her amethyst eyes coming up to meet his, "should I simply tell the whole story?  Allow everyone to hear how the quest progressed, from the beginning until we found ourselves here, battling the shapeshifter on the tower?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"That," Aaron intoned, "would be very helpful, Cyan. Thank you."

Removing himself from center-stage, Aaron found a leaning point against a nearby wall, somewhat near the obviously tired Andrej. Cyan had his complete attention.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Where to begin?" Cyan ponders aloud, opalescent eyes shining in the dim light.  "Obviously, at the beginning.  And so I shall."

And the Bard begins to speak.  Years of training in the telling of stories comes to the fore as she weaves a web of imagery and fact, bringing forth the story of the quest.  Brilliantly told, it nonetheless touches on all aspects and facts of the searching, the losses, the battles, and the knowledge gained.  She underscores the contributions of the fallen - those who joined the Quest, but have either been forced from it, or perished.

More than three quarters of the tale is complete when the Bard finally pauses.  "Give me a moment, Aaron.  I shall need a drink...ah, thank you, Berd."  Reaching out, Cyan takes the small glass of dark copper liquid from him, drinking it swiftly.  "Cherry...a fine choice, Berd."  Giving the little dragon a quick smile, she prepares herself to continue.  Berd, evidently forgiven, climbs back aboard, gripping the silk of her shirt and settling on the Bard's shoulder.

*ooc - Consider Cyan to have finished everything in the Q&A up to this point.  A few important notes:

1.  Cyan does not detail any personal relationships between characters.
2.  Cyan does not detail any arguements, beyond 'there was a disagreement'.  Outright fights (the one aboard the ship, for example) are completely ignored.  Obviously this means there is no scene where Aaron is dragged around, bound and gagged.  :)
3.  Cyan does not go into detail about Aaron's madness, save to say that Aaron was afflicted by an ensorcelment which the group assisted him in breaking.
4.  Cyan does not detail anyone's past or abilities, save her own.  She will say 'Lexy took us through the worlds to a place', not 'Lexy manipulated the Logrus...' etc.

When in doubt, assume Cyan will give the facts, but not personal information regarding the other characters.

I'll have to write up a shortened version of the rest of the tale for everyone.  There isn't much left that isn't personal, anyway.  :)  Give me a bit.  It's a good time for any comments.*

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Picking up her tale where she left off, Cyan describes how the group, now with Leonardo, left for her own world where they might find a safe place to conduct their reconnaissance.  Unfortunately, things went poorly after that.  Jack found himself captured by the Archons, Cyan and Hunter pursued him into their world, and Kallika and Aaron were forced, for different reasons, to leave.  Leonardo was left as the 'anchor' to Cyan's world.

It was then that Cyan met up with a resistance upon the world of the Archons - some of the mechanical spiders, it seemed, were not servants of the Wheels.  She was taken by one, THX 1138, to their leader, the ancient leader of the Spiders - Prime.  Some of her people, blandished by the invaders, had joined with the Enemy, but many remained free, with her.

Cyan forged and alliance with Prime, and used Jack's palanquet to draw the man back with her, finally able to gain a firm enough mental 'grip'.  Tortured, tormented, his mind shattered, Jack was barely sentient - it would be some time before he began to recover, but recover he did, his powerful spirit beginning to pull itself together with a little assistance.

THX 1138 had been sent by Prime to be a link between the allies - now it, too, joined the group.

The group returned to the island where disagreements eventually erupted between them.  They went their separate ways, Hunter into the Myriad worlds, Jack, Cyan, Berd, and THX 1138 in search of a weapon to use against the Archons, and Leonardo to return to his home.

Jack's fury only grew as they travelled.  [Cyan becomes very vague, here]  A means to defeat the Archons was discovered, though likely the circumstances were unique, and could not be duplicated.  Whatever the case, it proved effective - Cyan, Berd, Jack, THX 1138 and Prime's terrifying warriors were able to defeat the Archons completely, and force them from the world.  Prime's people began to rebuild, and prepare for a second invasion, should it come.  Cyan left Prime with one of her palanquet, so that the leader of the Spiders might contact her for information or assistance.

It was during this conflict that the group discovered that single name, later verified by Leonardo - Callisto.

Cyan does not mention Kia - that is for Jack.

The next step for them was to trace the damage done - it seemed that each and every orb increased the amount of 'breaks' in the Worlds, the damage to the world itself, and the orbs' breaks had begun to form a line between Chaos and Amber.  The ramifications of this were horrifying.  What damage could this cause?  How long had the Enemy been carrying out its plans?  THX 1138 returned home, Jack, Cyan and Berd left to examine the situation at the original starting point.  Here.

In this place they encountered Princess Fiona and her 'bodyguard', and spoke to her about their findings.  Then, with a bit of exploration, they discovered the Broken Pattern of this world.  In the center was an orb, slowly consuming the reality of the World.  It took a great deal of effort, but Jack managed to destroy the orb, saving this world.  Then they set out after the shapeshifter...

"...and the rest, you know."  Cyan takes another, long sip of her brandy, slowly shaking her head.  "Ah, this tale has been told many times.  Too many, and it only gets worse with every telling.  So that is the situation, from where I stand, and those are the circumstances leading to this point."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Nodding sagely, Aaron sighed.

"Forgive me for having you retell it, Cyan. However, I know you understand the necessity. Again, I thank you."

Returning to the center of the room, Aaron placed considerable attention to each member of the group in turn.

"Now, do any of you have any insight, opinions or ideas on the course in which our journey should take? I will consider any information that's given in my final decision, of course."

But this still doesn't answer my question... Cyan certainly gave me a few interesting questions to ask, but that's for later. Jack, it seems, will be more than necessarry, since Leonardo has apparently left for good.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd yawns loudly then snaps his mouth shut.  He stares at his claws for a moment, holding them out for inspection, then rolls over on his back.  Somehow he maintains his balance while Cyan absently scratches his belly.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Fascinating," Dorian mutters. "I will say only that I am not familiar with such things as the pattern, or breaks therein. These are things I need to learn more about. My only input is that it would appear we still need to learn more. We have discussed such things as attacking the source, which does not seem viable, or making criticle strikes against key targets to weaken communication-- these transmitters, I believe they are called. That is the end of my advice at this moment; I will dwell on these things and offer more later, if I have any more. Sadly, these things are all new to me, so I am not much help in this area." That said, Dorian leans back against the wall and tries to remain quiet  so the others can speak.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"The problem," Cyan states quietly, "is that we know too little of the Enemy, and we have too many threads on which we might tug.  We do not know what the Courts of Chaos might have discovered of this plot.  We know nothing of Beldrin, save his own, unsubstantiated claims.  We know little to nothing of these Nephillim, and their connection to the Enemy, if anything.  The Broken God that seems to be the common thread for the Enemy - we know nothing of It, save that one hand lies in Caina."  She stops ticking off her fingers, and shakes her head.

"For what purpose do the transmitters exist?  Why was the Shapeshifter here when the world was to be destroyed?  Why lay eggs?  What is Project Callisto?  Why establish a religion on Escher?  Is there a grander purpose in this 'chain of breaks'?  Many, many questions, and little in the way of answers beyond pure conjecture.  And far too many threads for all of us to chase."

Sighing, Cyan puts her chin on one hand.  On her shoulder, Berd mimics her for a moment.  "'If you know your enemy and yourself, you cannot fail.  If you know yourself, but not your enemy, you have at best an even chance of success.  If you do not know yourself, nor your enemy, you will fail.'  Words of strategy from a brilliant mind.  I fear we know little to nothing of the Enemy."  And only a trifling of ourselves, I expect.

"The key is information.  We can fight the Enemy on world after world, fight and win, fight and lose, but the Myriad Worlds are infinite.  That war is doomed to fail.  We need to slay the Enemy itself, and let its plans collapse in ruin, so that we may deal with them in detail.  This is likely obvious to everyone in the room.  But to fight the Enemy, we must find It.  To fight the Enemy, we must know it.  So to gain information should be our first step."

Closing emerald eyes, Cyan rubs her forehead.  "I believe the Hand or Project Callisto would be two good places to consider.  The only difficulty is that we know little to nothing of WHERE we might find Project Callisto, save for the 'Trumps' given to me by Leonardo.  Aaron, you should take them.  You comprehend their use.  I shall forge others for myself, anon."  Bringing out Leonardo's Trumps, she hands them to Aaron.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
"The problem I see is that the foes are always slain and not captured and questioned. We must find and capture someone that can perhaps lead us up the next step." Kaelyn speaks.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"All attempts to capture our foes, thus far, have ended with them committing suicide or fighting until destroyed," Cyan agrees.  "It would be good to succeed in taking a prisoner."

"But from where?  Perhaps with the additional skills in the group it might be possible to capture an Archon alive - I do not know, as I am unsure of what everyone is capable.  We failed, before, and only received the knowledge of Project Callisto from the attempt.  Beyond that, I do not know of any other creature in direct contact with the Enemy.  The Gatherer?"  She shudders, sapphire eyes clouding over with the memory.  "No.  Possibly this Religion on Escher?  The leader?  Or is he a dupe, as well?  It is a difficult proposition when the Enemy seems adept at working through proxies - thus far, the Enemy's direct servants have included Cylla, the Archons, possibly the shapeshifter, possibly the religious leader.  The Archons seem the best choice in that case, should we be capable of capturing one alive."

Cyan glances towards Aaron for a moment, struck by a sudden thought.  "It might be best to speak to one of our 'loose ends'.  I can begin work on a palanquet of Beldrin, Aaron.  Are there any others you would have me forge?"

"Another thing.  The Orbs, when active, seem to feed their stolen energy towards something, far away in the Myriad Worlds.  We have additional skills, now, on which we might draw.  Perhaps when next we discover an orb, we might be able to 'track' the energy to the final gathering point."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Perhaps, it is a bold plan, but there is a chance I might help capture an Archon. Remember, that I have only your description to work with, so normally I wouldn't even mention it. If we knew of, or could locate, in the infinite worlds a place where the Archons would be neutralize-- perhaps due to a certain energy or atmospheric content-- I could set a trap to shunt them into that world against their will. Now, as I said, my knowledge of these things is incomplete. So, I'll let you decide if that is something we could pursue."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn considers that issue, "I am sure that such a place could be found. The roads Amber go in many directions to many different places."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I would need to know the exact location we are sending the being, in advance. The more I know about the situation, the better. I could use a similar tactic to what I used on the shapeshifter; let it get its hands on me, and the second it does so teleport both of us to this other world. Otherwise, I would have to use some other trickery to get it to unknowingly move into the portal. The best way is to get the portal to appear at the last possible moment, as it is already moving. Hmm... Or, perhaps, I could make the portal large enough to engulf it and all of us in a large teleportation malestrom?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron took the Trumps from Cyan first and foremost. After looking them over, he nodded and stuck them into his jacket.

At the mention of "loose ends," Aaron raised an eyebrow, but nodded in agreement.

"I'll require trumps of my half-brother, a new one of myself to allow a better link, and one of my great granddaughter, just in case. I'm more than sure that I'll need others, but those are the only ones I can think of right now. Thank you, Cyan."

Crossing his arms before his chest, he took a position near a wall and released a heavy sigh.

"As Cyan said, we have a great many paths to choose from, and very little information to go on. However," and here he looked to Dorian, "Dorian, you make a very good - and very dangerous - proposition. Archons are extremely powerful and vicious enemies, and it will take considerable effort for us to capture one. I suggest that we think over this plan, while we investigate a secondary aspect."

"I remember the hand, Cyan, and I believe we could get it, if it is necessarry. However, let us not forget the sacrifices that may be required should we acquire it. That seems to be the most familiar path to take, as far as I can see. In the meantime," and here, he reached into his jacket, removing the Trump for a strange, jungle-like world.

"In the meantime, we should rest and consider our options. If we can get ahold of the hand, we may be able to use it to... well, track down the rest of the 'remains.'"

"Dorian, you keep working on that plan, for I believe it shows great promise. Spread the wealth, if you require assistance from anyone else, including myself, don't be afraid to ask."

Rubbing his eye, he cast a red-rimmed gaze to every person in the room.

"This is a great endeavor we are about to take part in. I hope to be able to bring you all safely through it, but I cannot do it alone. Each and every one of you has an important position in this group. I cannot stress that fact enough."

Straightening off of his point against the wall, he nodded to them all.

"Think all of this over and get some rest, if you can. Unless anyone has anything else they'd like to add, I suggest we retire for the remainder of the night."

They can retire. I need to make a call...

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan nods to Aaron's request of her, for additional palanqueti.  "I will do my best, Aaron.  It may take a few days, if we actually sleep this time."  She gives him a wan smile, then looks at Berd.  "Assistance would be appreciated...."

Berd glances to her, then nods, a distant look coming into his eye.

"As for stealing the Hand, I would be hesitant to do that.  Examining it?  Trying to determine its origin, or create some kind of link we can exploit to find the Broken God?  Yes.  But steal?"  She slowly shakes her head.  "We would leave the people of Caina without any defense.  That would not be my choice."

Stifling a yawn, Cyan slowly stands.  Jack...where are you?  Will you return?  Have you left us, me, forever?  Her eyes, dull jade now, glance around the room absently as her mind struggles to make sense of the day.

"I...am more than prepared to seek rest, Aaron."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James considered silently as the others spoke.  It was going to take a while to assimilate all that Cyan had just told them.

He remained silent as the others discussed strategy.  People contributed and made suggestions and then Aaron reached a decision.  As far as James was concerned this was all good, the group looked like it might begin to function as a unit.

There were a couple of things he was going to ask Cyan, but she inadvertently answered one question in her final comment about the hand and the other...well, it could wait, best to let Cyan get some rest.


"I'm going to turn in as well.  Guess I'd better find a crewman to show me my cabin." James leaves the room.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn prepares to go to bed, she hopes that the message about samurai and her sword is clear to those here but she doubts they would catch the subtlety or the concept of honor she was showing as well as the brutal nature of samurai when crossed. It is many messages she was trying to convey with her dress but she doesn't know if they will understnad.

She leave the room and heads back to her cabin to get a good night's sleep, something she expected to do earlier while Aaron met with Fiona and then Cyan and company.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Goodnight, then, to all," Cyan says quietly before slowly getting up and heading to her room.  Once there, she washes up and sits down on the bed.  No.  He did not say he would be gone, only that he needed some time.  Where are you, Jack?  Squeezing her jade eyes shut, she focuses on her tasks - right now it's the only way to keep from going to pieces.

Alone again.  This new Aaron she does not know.  More new questors.  And now the last of them, the one she never, ever expected to leave, has left.

Placing her sword beside her bunk, Cyan strips down and pulls a blanket over herself.  Berd, for his part, alights on the seaman's chest at the base of the bunk.  He breathes out a small clouds of glittering dust, and it floats through the air to settle upon the lamp.  The light fades, and the room is plunged into darkness.

"Berd?"  Cyan's hoarse voice cuts through the dark.  "Only five hours, if you would.  I have slept recently, and there is much to do.  Correct?"

The shining eyes bob up and down.  There is a pause.

"No," Cyan whispers, coughing once.  "I will be fine."

She doesn't sound it, but the drake takes her at her word and curls up.  Moments pass, long moments, then the sound of Cyan's breathing seems to stop altogether as a heaviness settles in the cabin, an odd change to the air.  Berd's eyes have begun to burn like small candles themselves, and the air around the bed warps and shimmers in the dim radience.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Silently Jack slipped into the cabin, with a soulful look at Berd he slipped into the bunk with Cyan. Curling up with her he let himself drift.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd gives Jack an enigmatic look when the man slips into the room, switching to almost panicked when he moves to the bed.  There's a brief flare in the light of the drake's eyes as Jack crosses over the odd 'boundary', and then the dragon breathes a small sigh of relief.  With a snuff of exasperation, the drake goes back to his vigil.

After a long moment, when Jack crawls into bed, Cyan slowly turns over and wraps her arms around him, muzzily pulling him closer so that his back is against her front.  "Sleep," she breathes in his ear, before slowly drifting back to slumber.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
As most of the others leave the room, Andrej stands up wearily and heads over to one of the larger chairs. Propping it against the wall, he sits down on it and relaxes against its backrest. From this vantage point he waits, growing more tired every minute until he succumbs to Orpheus' rest.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian leaves to find a quiet area where he can work on his spells, refreshing the ones he has lost today. He will sleep only for a couple of hours tonight.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Captain. Commander. Leader. He had heard of such titles, been under those who held them... but held such himself? Never before now.

Yet, he seemed to slide into the role. He wasn't perfect (he so detested confrontation unless it was with a weapon drawn, and even then, he didn't jump at the chance for it), and he certainly wasn't prepared for everything.

But, as he knew, everything was eventual.

And Aaron had become something of an optimist. An optimist saw the good in every hardship, even hardship such as this.

Everyone else had adjourned, and he waited until the last person had left before he too, departed the room. He wandered the ship, finding that while he was tired, he had felt much worse than he was feeling now. He'd sleep for two or even three hours, at most, when the time finally came.

But not before he examined the Trumps Cyan had given him.

Aaron found himself at the very bow of the ship, soon enough. The skies they were under were constantly changing, but the time of day didn't seem to falter. It was still night, still late.

Kneeling upon the planks and settling down upon his heels, he removed the Trumps from within his jacket. Spreading them out before him, he took each one of them in, noting the persons and places they represented. Leonardo's hand was unfamiliar to him, not like Cyan's or like the art of others he had seen. However, the man had been a skilled artist, despite how faulty his thinking had seemed.

The Trumps themselves were familiar, save a couple. There was one of himself, Jack, Cyan, Hunter, Berd and a strange, metallic arachnid that must have been the THX that Cyan had referred to in her tale. The final Trump was of a jungle world, and it was that one he singled out from the rest.

Gathering the other Trumps into his (new) hand, he placed them back into the pocket of his jacket, and focused instead on the sinuglar card before him. He considered it, but decided against contact. If the Trump link could be picked up, he might give away the location of the group. That was something he didn't wish to do, and he didn't understand his enemy enough to be able to second-guess them.

Not yet, anyway.

Finally replacing that card in with the rest, Aaron sighed and closed his eyes, letting the roar of the waves, the wind and the smell of the sea take him to other places.

Cyan had been right, he thought. He too had figured that stealing the hand outright would rob the people of Caina of their protection. His memory of that time was foggy, but it was enough to make him cautious.

He had lost his eye for the first time on that world.

Aaron decided, then, upon the path that they would take, and upon the plans he would begin to hatch that would hopefully bring an end to this useless destruction.

He knew though, that more destruction would no doubt be caused by both sides before the end.

How many of the group would pay for that destruction?
How many would cause it?
How many wouldn't see the end?

Rising, Aaron turned and began the slow walk back to his own cabin, to retire for as long as his thoughts would let him.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
       As Aaron moved for the door a shadowy form dropped from the rafters and glided lazily through the room to alight on his shoulder with the squawk of   “Never more!”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Movement. Different from the sounds of the waves... wings?

A weight on his shoulder, followed by the accompanying quote from the works of Poe...

"Amusing." he said, and smiled as he continued on his way, reaching up to scratch the bird in the deep feathers behind her head.

Perhaps Jack had returned.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
     Barely had Jack’s head touched the pillow and he snuggled deeply against Cyan before the shadow man was out.  There would be time enough to talk later.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Time passes in the room, oddly in some places.  Berd doesn't move, much.  The air around Jack and Cyan ripples slightly.  After what seems to be about two hours, Cyan reawakens.

An observer, were there any, would be struck by how quickly she moves.  However, her movements do not seem to disturb Jack in the least.  Sitting up, the Bard smiles down at Jack for a long moment, then blinks.  Reaching over, she quickly finds her shirt and underclothes, and carefully slips them on, not wanting to disturb the sleeping man...and not doing so.  It's relatively easy for her to keep from awakening the dead-tired Jack.

A small, glowing light appears, and two tiny faeries bring her the sketchbook and pens...again, at the same, bizarre speed.  Cyan takes them, hands blurring slightly, and curls up next to Jack.  The man shifts slightly, himself moving a trifle too quickly to be natural.  The aforementioned non-existant observer might well have determined by now that their speed is a function of their surroundings, rather than any actual hypermobility.

Their speed, in fact, is subjective.

Slowly (to her), Cyan begins her work, the nib of her pen moving over the paper, sketching out features.  A face.

Scarred and worn.  Tired but resolute.

Aaron.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
         Who knew how long it had been, it felt like he had been asleep for a month as Jacks eyes opened a crack.  Cyan could already feel the change in his breathing as he floated to consciousness. “How long?” he asked in a soft tired voice as his hand reached out to touch Cyan’s back sliding casually up and down it softly.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
        The Raven ruffled and fluffed her feathers  in a grumpy show at Aaron, almost doubling her size with the show.  She even hissed at him trying to intimidate him back into his place as he stroked her head. It’s hard to intimidate someone when you are a fraction of their size coping a free ride on their shoulder, even harder when you don’t really mean it, and liked the attention. Still she had to show him who was boss around here.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron laughed at the bird and continued down the hall, into the interior of the ship. Would he sleep? He wasn't sure, but at the moment, he didn't really care.

"Are you sure we're not related?" he asked Lenore, and chuckled at the question.

His plans bothered him somewhat. Sure, they could go hunting for the Hand, but what then? There were just too many variables. He didn't have nearly enough information, and he wasn't sure if returning to the Hand would get them anywhere.

Still, they needed to go somewhere.

Aaron cast his mind elsewhere. His thoughts wandered, floating along on currents of introspection and self-discussion.

He yawned, found that he had stopped right infront of the door to his own quarters.

Looking up to Lenore, he raised an eyebrow in the bird's direction.

"I don't think they gave you a room, now did they? Not that you'd enjoy being cooped up with a bunch of aggravating people like us..."

You need sleep.

A sigh. "Indeed."

Opening his door, he stepped into the room with his new guest and let it shut behind him.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee finishes his platter of food, then another, going for a final refill as the others head off to bed.  Finally he is alone in the conference room with Hunter.  He puts a tray of cold meat on the floor for the wolf, then continues eating his own supper.

When both have eaten their fill, they move up to the deck and curl up on the foredeck.  The man who is not quite human whispers to the wolf who is more than a mere animal until he falls aleep, his face gleaming wet in the starlight.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
          Lenore looked at Arron a moment through her good eye, without answering. Then flapped to a perch with a couple of smooth flaps to sit and watch over the man. The silent vigil by the harbinger of ill omens standing lonely watch over the man. Then again, Blow that for a lark. she though Let him deal with it. and went to sleep.

This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 20:42, Thu 29 July 2004.



===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan shivers, once, as Jack's fingers run up her back.  She's been sitting in bed for far too long, with too little in the way of light.  At the thought, the light brightens a trifle.  She smiles, looking down at Jack.

"For us?  Possibly fourteen hours.  For everyone else?  No more than seven, if that."

An amethyst glance to Berd clearly demonstrates the culprit for that little bit of wizardry.

"Would you sleep more?  Or rise, Jack of Shadows?" Cyan continues, still speaking quietly.  Her hand rests on his shoulder as he lies there, then gently touches his hair.  "I would be up, soon if not now, to watch the sun rise and practice a bit.  But you may need more rest, Jack.  Do you feel better?  More centered?"  One eyebrow rises slightly.  "More at ease?"

Berd cracks open his mouth in what appears to be a slow motion yawn...then the shimmering bubble around the bed and its two occupants shatters silently, like crystal, fading to nothingness.

Time reasserts itself, clawing back the space in the bed to normal flow.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
        Jack looked up into Cyan’s copper shrouded face with a shame faced look at her questions. “Yes I think I am well enough now, I should get up. No doubt Aaron will be looking for answers from me since I was not there.”

    Jack slowly sat up “Cyan, I am sorry…You were right.” he said looking away his face flushing red with embarrassment.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Reaching out, Cyan puts a hand over Jack's mouth.  "None of that.  We all stray from the path, Jack of Shadows, and life can overwhelm us.  Perfection is not to be expected.  Desired, yes," she says, and her topaz eyes sparkle impishly, "but not expected.  For none of us, not a single one, can live up to that ideal."  Removing her hand from his mouth, she leans over and kisses him.  "I am not angry that you left - I am pleased that you returned."

Wrapping her arms around him, the Bard leans her head against his shoulder.  "Aaron managed quite well, actually.  You SHOULD speak to him...once he awakens.  I suggest we both prepare?"  Slipping out of his arms, and off of the bed, Cyan grins over her shoulder and reaches into her pouch, removing her pack of palanquet.  With a flick, she draws forth her leggings from the air, and her silk shirt.  Back to Jack, she removes her nightshirt and pulls on her customary clothing, sighing faintly.

"You might have a bit of explaining to do at that," Cyan admits, buttoning up the front of the shirt.  "And I do not wish to miss the dawn, Jack.  It has been too long since I watched the sun come over the horizon.  Will you sleep more?  Or join me?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
        There was a brief “Murph?” of surprise as Cyan put her hand over Jacks mouth and explained things to him.  The hand was pulled away only to be replaced by a kiss and then an embrace. A very surprised Jack relaxed and pulled himself from the bed giving Cyan another hug.
        “Thank you for understanding Cyan.” he said kissing her again before dressing himself. “Come on. we’ll go watch sunrise together and then deal with whatever we must the same. Thank you for reminding me of that.”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Oh, I don't fully understand, Jack," she says, shaking her head.  "Some, but not all.  What I DO understand is this - you had your reasons, and they seemed good at the time.  Even if they were a trifle...hmmm, foolish, shall we say?  But not matter.  I am willing to set such things aside."  Cyan's grin is wide, now; she knows she has the upper hand, here.  "I can be...magnaminous."

Letting her fingers trail down Jack's arm, she moved to the water basin, washing her face.  "I must have a bath, soon.  I believe after practice I will return to my home for a bath, and then back here.  It should only take  few minutes, all things considered."  A flick of the foot brings Kirilinde up to shoulder height - Cyan snatches it out of the air, and links her arm with Jack's when he is finished preparing.

"Shall we?" she asks, heading to the door up to the deck.

He is back, and I shall put it behind me.  It is done and over.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James spends the rest of the night sleeping peacefully.

Part of him feels a bit soft at having slept in the hammock slung in his cabin.  There had been a day when he would have found the floor more comfortable, but James finds it hard to feel too nostalgic for his army days and the new James has discovered the pleasures of decent mattresses.

Some habits are harder to break though and as soon as the sun rises James is up.  Since he's travelling light it takes all of 5 minutes to be ready to go.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
        Jack over play’s his hang dog expression a bit, not that he is not sorry, but if she’s going to smile and laugh this off to a point he will too.  “I can see that you can be magnaminous, can you do humble at the same time.” he asked teasingly, a grin breaking of his own.

        “A bath? A real hot bath? Even if it is A Berd bath, that would be a treat. Can I tag along with you? I won’t peek, I’ll wash you back and do whateeeever you like for a hot bath. I’d simply kill for a hot bath again.”  He played the comedic melodramatics as she led him to where ever she wanted to go to watch sunrise.

   Falling silent as she brough him to the railing, looking out at the first rays of the rising sun he put an arm around Cyan's shoulder and just took it in.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Do not," Cyan continues, punching Jack lighting in the shoulder to get his attention, "think that you will not have to explain yourself to the others.  Clown."  With a sigh, she shakes her head, giving in to the amusement.  Berd, on her other shoulder, cheeps happily, but shoots a cautioning look at Jack behind her head.

"You can tag along, should you wish, but it would only be fair to the others to offer them a hot bath as well.  It may less be a quiet tryst than a 'line-up to the tub', as a friend of mine used to say."

Relaxing beside him, feeling the heat of his body even through her always-cool clothing, Cyan stares out over the water, her ruby eyes catching the burning light across the clouds and throwing it back.  She leans her cheek against his chest and stares, his arm a comforting weight on her shoulder.  "Never," the Bard says quietly, "never do that again.  Never presume to know what is good for me without first consulting me.  And never leave without saying goodbye," she finishes in a whisper.

The rays lance out as the sun begins to crest the horizon, searing the rest of the sky and setting the rippling water aflame.  Berd sits up on Cyan's shoulder, greeting the sun with a musical cry.  The Bard smiles, gripping Jack's hand on her shoulder hard.  It's a quiet, contemplative moment.

Berd, obviously infected by Jack's attitude, blows a raspberry in her ear, long forked tongue flicking wetly.

"Agh!  Cursed beast!  Gûlrog!"

Berd hoots merrily while dodging her grasping hand, barely, and swoops up to the spar above, sitting down on it, extending his neck towards her and blowing another raspberry, glittering eyes wide, as Cyan wipes her ear.  "Foul creature...Jack, I must do some practice.  It has been overlong, and I am unsure as to how much my skills might have deteriorated.  I find that the morning is the best time for such things...as I am able to have my bath after."  The Bard shrugs her shoulders, reaching out to run a hand through Jack's hair.  Berd makes gagging noises, above, but she ignores him, leaning in to kiss Jack on the lips.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
         “Never again Cyan.” Jack promised as he stood there relaxing  and looking between the firey pastels of the morning sky and the first rays of light catching Cyan’s hair. As it lit it up like a burning halo of burnished copper  he lost himself in that moment . Not bothering to comment for the longest time…

         In the end the moment could not last, as Cyan spoke of needing practice and then kissed him.  “Go ahead love do what you need to, gods know I am already putting in my morning workout.” he said after reluctantly breaking the soft kiss. He pulled away slowly holding on to the last until the tips of his fingers slipped from her.

        “I will explain to the others if need be, not that they don’t matter, but they are not as important as you. Especially under the given circumstances.” he added matter of factly finding a place to settle into on a barrel, he sat tailor fashion. “I don’t care if you invite them though a quiet tryst would be pleasant, not smelling like a gym sock takes precedence.” he gave her a wink and a smile. “Never again…” he added.

His face turned solemn again and he looked down..away. “Cyan, I am not certain how useful I will be in what is to come. The pyramid, Callisto. It is like the church, I can’t see inside.”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I said I SHOULD invite them...perhaps we might go, ourselves, and then allow them to join us?  The time shift is different on my world.  A half hour would be as two or three."  She gives him a quick smile, ducking her head for a moment.

"You have seen something of project Callisto?"  Cyan's eyebrow rises.  "Well then...of what use am I, if I cannot see inside?  Ridiculous, Jack of Shadows.  Whether or not you can see inside, you have just demonstrated one, important thing - this pyramid is connected to the Broken God, and the Church...and what other body part might we find within?  Every piece adds to our understanding of the puzzle.  Every piece gives us another weapon.  Each of us, I think, will bring something to our Quest.  Some have already brought more than most - that would be you, Jack of Shadows."  Leaning close, she looks into his eyes with her own, emerald ones.  "Do not be so greedy," Cyan jokes, then grows serious in her turn.  "You have done and will do much for all."

"I shall make it a short practice as, depending on the whim of our Leader, we might have time for a bath after...more time, should we bathe together, of course."  A flush with that comment, though the Bard tosses in a wink to Jack.  Moving away, Cyan checks the deck briefly, noting any possible obstacles (including any moving sailors who might wander into her reach), and then draws her blade, Kirilindë flickering with rainbow light for an instant before settling on bright silver, the ithilinaur kindling in the morning sun.

Cyan begins her practice.

She keeps it slow, moving through her forms at a snail's pace and making minute, tiny adjustments where necessary.  A slight shift of the foot here.  A tiny twitch to move the point of her blade there.  Millimeters of difference and less - hair fine, in some cases.  Her forms, while using the classical style of a gim, are without flare, or flash.  They move through the motions of killing, only, without bothering with needless frippery or dance-like motions.  The footwork is smooth and ranges from the subtle to the gross, but remains constantly centered and clean.

Pausing, she brushes damp hair back from her forehead and turns to look at Jack.  "Jack...the pyramid.  What can you tell me of it?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
      “Two or three? A lot could be done with two or three hours and I still owe you a dance. Though the image of Berd on an accordion is an odd one.” Jack said matching Cyan’s smile then turned wicked “I’m certain we could find something to while away the time.” he gave her a playful wink before tuning to serious matters.

      “Yes I have seen the pyramid that must be Callisto,” He said meeting her eyes with bis own beep blue ones. “You misunderstand, I am not being greedy, nor do I underestimate my usefulness. I am trying right now to gain more information by picking a mind to invade and find what I can. However I do not think the trick of Psychic war that I we pulled before will work on this. It would be guarded by the same thing that wards the Church. If we must go inside, our powers and magic’s will probably be robbed of us. All of the special weapon’s proven toys again. Test’s of skill against skill alone. My usefulness in that situation will be minimized. That is all I was saying.”

       “Come here, I will show you what I see so far of the pyramid. Perhaps your warrior’s eyes can catch something that my mind can not. Berd,” Jack held out an arm despite the fact the Drake could link from where he was. jack just enjoyed the physical contact, it was reassuring. “You should see this as well.”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
It's good to take a break, and doing something slowly and perfectly is much more taxing than simply blazing through it without regard to exactness.  Cyan sheathes Kirilindë, nodding, and walks to where Jack sits.  Simultaneously, Berd wings down from the spar, landing on his arm with easy grace.

Reaching out, Cyan takes Jack's free hand.  "Show me what you see, Jack of Shadows, and I will attempt to discern some knowledge of use.  As to the War we fought before...I doubt that will work a second time, ever.  The Enemy is now aware of it, and will no doubt be putting plans into effect to limit the effectiveness of such a move."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“I know,” Jack said with a smile “I still like the thought of it being that easy.”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan grins briefly.  "Jack...I thought your mind more disciplined than that."  Berd, for his part, leans over and bites Jack on the ear.  Lightly.

Then her visage grows more serious, amber eyes narrowing, and she considers the vista before her.

"It is not finished, then...now is the time to strike.  We have to bring this to Aaron, and arrange to scout the area.  During the construction phase it will be at its most weakest, and possibly even...well, what I would like to do is get inside and steal whatever they are using to 'shield' it."  She considers further, biting on her lip in her concentration.

"Continue with your studies in those veins, Jack.  We need to know more about the people.  Berd, can you assist?"  Berd, looking a trifle put upon, nods.

Cyan frowns, brow wrinkling slightly with thought.  "I require more information.  Jack, are the people slaves, as THX 1138's people were?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian snores, mumbles in his sleep, rolls over and wipes drool off his chin, scratches himself somewhere, then falls asleep again.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
        “Ow!” Jack gave Berd a sharp look “I don’t need any ear piercing, ya flying handbag.” But he reached up and stoked the Drakes chin as he looked over at Cyan.   “You try not to think of a pink elephant.” Was his only retort for her.

     “I’m on it and working, you know me I’m always working on it.” he added  “It will take time to get everything, go ahead and get Aaron. Going to your home a faster timeline would probably be helpful. Berd and I have this, go head and wake Aaron.”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well, going to my home would be up to Aaron, but it seems a good place to start.  At least we know we will not be falling behind most worlds."  Cyan steps back, taking her hand from Jack's with a wistful look.  "Business...always business.  This Quest...at times, it grates.  No, that is selfish of me.  Needs must."

Turning one last amethyst glance to Jack, Cyan quickly hurries to the door leading deeper into the ship.  Pausing, she glances at Berd.  "Where...thank you, Berd."  Then she's away, down the steps and moving unerringly to Aaron's door.  Knuckles rap on it, lightly.  "Aaron?  Are you there?"

Above, Berd sighs, glancing around the ship.  There's a hungry look in his eye for a moment, but then he shrugs, turning his mind back along its arcane pathways, away from the more transient pleasure of satiation.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Four, maybe five hours later, and Aaron awoke with a tingling in his arms and legs. Familiar, haunting, but also energizing at the same time.

He needed to exercise.

Ever vigilant, Ilsefranvir rested in her sheath beside his bed. His mind held a flash of memory at what the weapon once looked like in a very similar state, and he felt her flicker to life in the back of his head.

She never slept, but fatigue still held her in thrall from time to time. Even a soul needed rest.

He hefted her as he rose, his left hand grasping the sheath just beneath the handguard. He left his shirt and jacket upon the bed, the contents once within it placed into a safer spot once he had been assured that the raven above him was asleep.

Leaving the room with nary a sound, Aaron once more followed his old path, until he again found himself at the bow of the ship. Dawn was coming soon, and he felt that greeting it with strength would wake him all the more. He stretched, breathed, and then strapped the sword to his bare back.

Ilsefranvir emerged from her sheath, glinting silver-black in the slowly receding night, that little light making known the numerous scars upon his torso. Deep slashes across abdomen and back, puckered wounds from bullets and shrapnel on his arms and sides, but none nearly as bad as the eye.

He paused, blade held in both hands before him, focused with Arianne as they resonated together. With blue flame creeping up her blade, the strange pattern upon her dark flat gaining a white light of its own, he began.

Their dance was more of a test of memory than of any particular style or skill. The first few initial sets of strikes, slashes, parries and blocks were begun in sword-state, Aaron using his whole body in the movement of the weapon, rather than simply shoulder or arm. The switch to whip-state made this even more apparent, and the flow of the movements became more defensive in nature. The sound of the weapon was less like a chain and more like the tinkling of falling glass; the spray of sweat and the huff of deep breaths accompanying every snap of the weapon.

He finished then, as he was completing the final motion, Cage of the Rose, and then Ilsefranvir disentangled from around his torso, and snapped into sword-form with a familiar "slink".

Spinning the blade, he swiflty resheathed her. Soon, the sun would be up, and the group would have to be ready to move.

Leaving the deck, he returned down the familiar path towards his cabin. Endorphins and adrenaline made the tingle in his arms and legs ever greater, though he forced himself not to hurry to his cabin. He continued, only to stop just before he reached it, at the notice of Cyan standing before his door.

"Good morning, Cyan." he greeted her, quietly so as to not disturb those who were still resting. Slowly unstrapping Ilse's sheath from his chest, sweat still dripping from his head, he gave her a familiar, understanding eye. "I trust the necessities of our quest did not keep you up late?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn sleeps enough to have herself fresh, a mere four hours is all she needs. She rises and goes over each of her weapons checking edges and insuring everything is in place. She then begins her morning Katas unarmed, working hard build her strength up. Once the undarmed are finished she pulls her weapons and practices with each one.

Only once her practice is completed does she take the time to consider each member of the group and how trustworthy or untrustworthy they are or dangerous to the group through lack of thought and carelessness.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Aaron?  You have been up?"  Cyan stares at him quizzically, then back up to the deck of the ship.  "Apparantly we have been on opposite sides of the ship...I was near the stern."  She winces at the sight of his various scars, slowly shaking her head.  "Ah, Aaron, the Worlds have used you sorely...."

Then her sapphire eyes bright.  "Oh, Jack has returned!"  She smiles.  "He awaits you on the deck, with news of Project Callisto, and the construction of the Pyramid."  Leaning close, Cyan whispers wryly, "I think he expects you to take him to task on his disappearance."  Backing away, she again frowns at his scars.  "For myself, I have completed the sketches of the remainder of the group, as well as some others, and am just over half-way completed your own palanquet  It should be finished when next we sleep.  Berd and I have an...arrangement, and my skills have improved, of late."

With a wave of her hand, she motions him towards his cabin.  "I shall await you here...alternately, we may simply go on deck now, should you so wish."

She can see by the sweat on his body and the glint in his eye that Aaron has been practicing with Ilse, much as she has been with her own gim.  "I had thought to move to my world, for there is a bath we might all use...separately, of course.  Perhaps at some point you and I might practice together - while a stick might not have Arianne's capabilities, I am certain Berd can come up with something practical that might suffice.  I have never fought against such a weapon, that I recall-" which is true, considering the qualifier "-and it would teach me much, I think."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
   Though left in the cabin Whisper quiet the Raven glides down to alight on Aaron’s shoulder. She shoots him a glance out of her good eye as if to say “hah!” then begins to preen her feathers.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
jack watch Cyan leave then let himself slip almost totaly into the work, loosing himself in it.

   After a bit glanced over at Berd with an Arched eyebrow, “Interesting-“ he said slowly. "Berd could you-?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron moved casually, with a newly refined grace that his exercies had seemingly reawakened, and approached his door, which he leaned against before returning his attentions to Cyan.

A smile, and a shake of his head, Aaron twisted his right shoulder just-so, hearing the vertebrae in his neck crack at the motion.

"Ah, Cyan, the Worlds only return as much as we give to them, it seems. I have the ablitity to get whatever I wish from their depths, and yet..." here he sighs, glancing to the floor. "And yet, I still can't believe I haven't lost as much as I could have."

A smile then, and he perks up noticibly at the mention of Jack. Yet that pleasantness is overcome by a firm nod of acknowlegement. Relaxed Aaron had given way to Aaron the Leader once he'd heard the news.

"Yes, I suppose Jack will wish for me to chew him out. He was always something of a masochist." Chuckling, he leaned close to Cyan, a glint in his eye. "That's something he and I share, apparently, however subtle that mutual curse may be."

"Well, whatever the case, I'll take care of him. I'm very glad that he has information and insight for us, though. I'll be sure to press the fact that he is just as important to me, and this group, as what he can do, or what information he posesses."

Cyan mentioned her world, and here Aaron nodded aggreement.
"I had much the same idea. Would it pain you if we used your world as a small base of operations? I'd understand if you refused the idea... but I thought I'd ask." Dangling Ilsefranvir from between his fingers, he glanced at her and smiled.

"Yes, it would certainly be an interesting little match, if you and I sparred. I'd welcome the challenge, when we're all settled in back at your cabin, that is. As far as waiting for me..."

And then his shoulder is speared by Lenore's talons, and he yelped in surprise.

"Agh! Cursed bird!" he spat, only to regain his balance and sigh in aggravation. "Who do you belong to? Nobody, I'd guess. You're either dangling on myself or Jack. Ech. You must be a Bird of my Demise."

Shaking his head, he glanced to Cyan once more and sighed.

"Please wait for me, dear Bard. Just let me gather my goods, and then we can return to Jack." Then he vanished into his room for a few moments, before he returned once more, somewhat less flushed, and Lenore on his left shoulder, rather than his right, which was taken up mostly by Ilsefranvir's hilt.

Closing his door, he gestured politely to Cyan, his pleasant smile making even the scar on his face seem a mere trifle.

"After you, m'lady."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan leans against the wall of the corridor, humming to herself, and pushes off when Aaron returns.  At his wave, she nods and begins to walk back up on deck.  "You should return that creature to Jack...she seems to like tormenting him more than you.  I would do it before she ruins your clothing."  The Bard gives the raven a narrow-eyed, emerald glance before returning to their conversation.

"Certs my home is open to all of us in this company, and it might be a good place to use for our plans.  I am a trifle wary of using it as a permanent 'base of operations'; rather, I would find a world where there are no people, a dead world, and use that.  Berd can create what we need on such a world, though he will be loathe to exert himself so."  The Bard smiles.  "He requires the practice."

Cyan grows more serious, though, continuing along that line.  "You know that any place from which we carry out a campaign against the Enemy will sooner or later find itself under siege?  I would have no innocents at peril for our benefit, Aaron - my home, or that of any other.  The people of my world are not aware of the existance of the Myriad Worlds, beyond a few philosophers.  They would be crushed by the Archons, or an invading army."

Arriving on deck, the coppery-haired bard seaches for Jack, finding him in much the same place.  "And there he is, awaiting you with Berd," Cyan notes.  "Thick as thieves, those two...well, perhaps we will garner some time for practice, Aaron, but I doubt it will take place on this day."  A rueful smile.  "Shall we waken the others, or leave them to sally forth from their cabins at their leisure?  Like as not it will be the final, good sleep any of us receive for some time - the spirits only know that has been the case with Jack and I."

Berd's head comes up as Aaron appears, not surprisingly.  "You silly little jackanape!" Cyan calls out as she and the one-eyed man walk towards the pair at the railing.  "Why did you not tell me he was up on deck?"  Berd gives her a long look, breathing out a puff of silvery mist that makes a swirling whirlpool, the 'tip' of the funnel aimed at the side of his own head.  "My, you are brave this morning," Cyan concludes, laughing.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Following Cyan back towards the deck, Aaron nodded, a confirmation of his own thoughts. "Your words echo my mind, Cyan. While I feel it necessarry that we have a place to congregate post-exertion, an uninhabited world would be best." A casual wave of the hand, passing the commentary onward. "'Better to ask and be called a fool...' and all that."

As they continued on, Aaron's eye narrowed on thought. "Yes, I have considered the fact that our enemies would attack the world upon which we were based. However, perhaps we could use that to our advantage. If we could lure them into a trap that seemed like a weakness of our own, well..." here he shrugged and shook his head. "Those ideas are for conversation and contemplation between all of us. I'll leave them be for now."

Having reached the deck, Aaron spotted Jack, and cast a considering gaze his way, the kind of look a father would give a child once he knew he had done wrong. That look evaporated with a sigh and a small smile.

"We'll let the group rest, Cyan. Who can say when they'll get to do it again?"

And then he approached Jack, slowly, casually.
"I trust your little vacation gave you what you were looking for?" He looked the man up and down and chuckled a little. "At least you're rested, and you certainly look better than you did at last I saw you."

He frowned slightly, "Still, t'wasn't the best time for you to leave. I needed you, Jack. You have skills, information, and... well, you're the only other friend I have here. Cyan and yourself are the only ones I can trust until I'm sure of this little group I've been given command of. So..."

A look about the deck, and then Aaron turned, stared right at Jack with that one eye, puckered and dead, and that other, spearing, determined and living.

"...as you said before, I can count on you to follow me, yes? I won't fault you for leaving. You've been under a great strain, and recent... issues... have more than likely aggravated you, which is understandable. However, the next time you leave without letting me know where you're going or whether we can contact you..." And here he stopped, seemingly out of steam.

"Shit. Just don't leave me hanging like that again, alright? There was a great gap in this group, and you're the one who filled it. Do that again, and I swear to God, I'll kill you."

"Very nice. That's how you encourage them."

A cough-like laugh, and then Aaron pointed to Lenore on his left shoulder.
"I belive this is yours, Jack. Please cage her, for I fear she may decorate my jacket."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
       Jacks eyes had remained closed through the greetings as he sat there in the lotus position, though as smile slowly caressed his lips at Aaron’s words. Jack’s deep blue eyes fluttered open meeting the Amber man eyes to mismatched eyes. “Vacation?” he asked “Not likely Aaron.” a hint of weariness into his voice, but more of the soul then the body.
      Jack arched an eyebrow questioningly “It had little to do with need Aaron, you, the group and the quest may or may not need me. That the question, the question is do I do more harm then good? Much of the groups dissention seems to focus around myself, even earlier dissentions’ lest we forget our old issues Amberman.” Jacks tone was introspective “In my weariness I watched Cyan have to apologize for me again to Dorian with a glance, as she apologized to you with looks, and to Leonardo.”

     Jack continued to speak in his soft thoughtful tones.   “Perhaps the problem was not you and your madness, or Leonardo, or Kaelyn, or even Dorian and his dark ways last night I thought. We all know the unquestioned life is not worth living, and gods know I question everyone and everything to extremes, but I had to question myself as well.”

       His eyes fell. “I did not like the potential answers…I mean if enough people hold ill against you, maybe it is you and not them, or at least you add to it. I-” Jack hesitated before continuing strong “I would think it more of you as a leader to threaten me with death or harm if I were to stay and I was part of the problem.” he let the statement hang in the air heavily for long moments before continuing. “And I thought it would be easier in leaving now that you have assistance of the other Ambers.”

       “Any way you chose to take it, I was reminded of promises I had made, promises that meant the worlds to me.” Jack glanced over at Cyan before looking out to sea, the wind blowing his cloak around him lightly. “Here I am, and here I will be. Though I will try to remain in the background so as not to step on anyone’s toes or cause any more issues.  A hard task for me to swallow as you know me, I am born protector, ever vigilant. I do not know how I shall choke it down in this company, after all a spade is a spade.”

       Jack took a deep breath and let it out the smile finding his face as he looked back at Aaron. “Well enough self pity, we have information on Calisto, Berd and I. It looks like you have hard choices, my friend and leader. Another situation like the hand and church with the enemy controlling it. A disease ridden subjugated people and what may be a enemy leader. Or another world where we just left where they are probably trying to destroy the worlds pattern and drive the breaks closer to Amber. Heavy choices ol’ bean, heavy choices.”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James leaves his cabin to find the others.  Having first checked that there is nobody in the stateroom where they met previously he makes his way on deck.

"Bingo!" he mutters to himself as he spots Aaron, Cyan and Jack close to the rail, and that would be Hunter up on the foredeck unless they have two wolves on board.

Moving closer to the trio, James calls, "Good morning, everyone." to alert them to his approach.

As he approaches them, he watches them and notes the way they interact with each other.  His study is interrupted by two fairly urgent realisations.

One...
"I'm glad you're back Jack."

Two...
"You've already practised this morning, haven't you? Damn. Going to have to lift my game."  This last is directed at Cyan and Aaron and it's not really a question.  To James's seasoned eye it's apparent in the way they carry themselves.

"I'll leave you to it for a bit.  I'm going to go say "Hi" to Jonnee," he points towards the foredeck, "I'll wager he's up there with Hunter."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej opens his eyes, one moment still asleep, the next wide awake. He stands and stretches, then heads to his cabin. Inside he strips and washes himself, the cold water wiping away any remnants of sleep. Taking out a razor knife and a bar of shaving soap he continues his morning toilet shaving his scalp.

With a sigh of regret he looks at his torn favorite vest, then dresses in a dark red shirt, black leather pants and a black leather vest with slight gold trim and a stylized picture of a bear and a falcon on its left breast.

After completeing his morning ritual he leaves his cabin and heads for the deck to get some fresh air. As he looks over the railing and out to see he notices the small group of his compatriots standing slightly to the side, talking. He decides to let them have a bit of privacy and not intrude on their conversation, but notes that Jack has reappeared. Nodding a short greeting in their direction he again looks out over the waters.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Reaching the deck with Aaron, Cyan listens as he ‘chews out’ Jack, so to speak.  It’s going fine until the last, then the Bard tenses.

'...Do that again, and I swear to God, I'll kill you....’

Another death threat delivered to Jack.  She can’t be certain if Aaron is serious, or not – this new Aaron is more difficult to read, and his actions and reactions are different enough that it throws Cyan off her expectations.  Warily, she watches Jack for his reaction.  Words have meaning to her.  Unless she knows someone isn’t serious, Cyan takes such things very seriously.

Jack, however, seems more interested in punishing himself than taking Aaron to task for his words, and Cyan settles for waiting.  It is possible that Aaron meant it as hyperbole.  In poor taste, but...her ways are not the ways of everyone, that is for certain.

I dearly hope that Jack does not choose to fade into the background over this.  While the situation is tense, I still believe that, with a bit of work from everyone, we can continue on this quest not as a group, but as a team.  But she will not, cannot sacrifice Jack's spirit.

As Jack catches Aaron up to speed, Cyan spots movement out of the corner of her amber eyes, and turns to face James as he speaks.  “Good morning to you, Sir James,” she greets him.  A simple statement of acceptance of Jack’s return, and yet much could be conveyed by the single phrase.  Layers and layers to this one.

“If you are will, James, I am yet free for practice.  We need only find a pair of broomsticks, or the like...though I am certain Berd can provide.  Others have not yet awoken, and so we seem to have some time before our leave-taking.”  She wonders at the heavy blade hanging at his waist.  Either his style is far different than what she expects, or he wields it...well, with ease.  Another one like Jack, far stronger than myself.  "Though perhaps would be best...."

Andrej’s arrival does not go unnoticed as well.  “Good morning, Sir Andrej.”  The man appears to wish his privacy for the nonce, and Cyan can respect that.  Mornings, she knows, can be an important time.  Studying the insignia on his vest, she ponders as to whether it is simple decoration, or something more.  Heraldry, from his chosen World?  What meaning do the bear and falcon hold?

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
A sigh, and Aaron's eye returns a slight look of disappointment towards Jack.

"Jack, it's because you question everything that I need you here, as yourself. If you recede into the background and simply stare like a ghoul, you'll be limiting your obvious advantages to this team."

Running a hand through his hair, Aaron shook his head.

"Look, you know I'm long past old grievances. You and Cyan are the last people I'd ever hurt," and here he chuckles, "desptie how often I go about saying I'll kill you. I'm so beyond our past that it's no longer a problem for me." His eye glinted, and he smiled slightly. "Not that I forget, though. I use my memories to better strengthen the wisdom I've gained. And I know right now, that I need you as you are, Jack, and not as a self-defeating shell of yourself."

Aaron scoffed, looking up to the skies above. "Jack of Shadows, I say, who gives a damn what others think of your methods? If they work to better the progression of the group, then I say go for it. However, I won't bide anything that will put us in needless danger." A shrug. "I know you well enough to know that you wouldn't do that. Any danger that comes to us through you is generally for a damn good reason." And then he smiles, letting out a great breath.

"Well, whatever the case, your information is certainly helpful. I never expected our mission to be easy." A pause. "Regarding the information you've collected, do you have any opinion as to where our first steps should be? You know I need all the help I can get."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
         Jack touched a finger to his brow in salutation of James “Thanks James.” was all he said to the Amber man. Also nodding a salute to Andrej. All before continuing with Aaron “It’s not about old grievances Aaron, honestly between us there are no grievances in my eyes like yourself.  It’s about have I been and shall I continue to start wars in the group. Internal strife is as dangerous as anything.”   Standing he sighed and slapped a palm quickly several times on the railing giving light thumps.

       “It doesn’t matter , you know me…I am here and will do the best job I can for ya boss.” he gave Aaron a wink. “You threaten to kill me I’ll threaten to beat you, just like old times, even if neither of us will make good on it, though each of us could.”  he looked at Cyan with a smile “It’s a stupid male bonding thing.”

        He took a deeper breath seeming to stand taller, nothing was resolved but things would go on. If nothing else he was standing with more confidence and his voice was stronger. “Suggestions of where to start? Nope… “ Jack said with a grin. “Now you see what trouble I had when I was a responsible leader by default.  I’m so glad that it’s you and no me.” He chuckled at Aaron’s plight.

        “First I’d say get some more people over here, the less I have to repeat myself the better.” Turning he called out to the three on deck “James, Andrej, Jonnee, Hunter… Do you all feel up to a little unofficial meeting? Dorian and Kaelny as well.” He looked around at the empty air expecting the to hear and respond if they liked.


        Jack started on his suggestions or at least the issues as he saw them. “Really I am at loss of where to start Aaron, leaving either is dangerous, dangerous to Amber and the worlds.”  Jack frowned  and spoke thoughtfully “ Though if I were in shoes…..”

         “…..I would check with Princess Fiona, to see if the Amber’s might deal with the threat at their own back door. The world in the Circle that had the orb, if it’s pattern is broken the enemy shall use it as a spear head straight into Amber. Though it must be dealt  with quickly or a world of people may die.”  Jack looked as if thinking  for a moment then nodded. “If she can see to that, we can be free to pursuer this Callisto, the threat it holds and face the malignancy it’s world holds for us. It’s as bad as anything you have seen, the breaks there are old and solid.”

        “We must continue to thwart their plans on small levels, world by world. However Berd, myself, you, Cyan and anyone else who feels up to the challenge must truly push the limits…As we did with the Archon battle, we must think farther out side the box and more creatively then ever.”  Jack leaned in a little closer to Aaron. “We have to find was to make sweeping strikes to the enemy powerbase and shut then down, or for every world we save a thousand may be lost. Berd already works to gain a better understanding of the Orb, I have few plans myself. I could probably use Dorian’s help if we can work without trying to fry each others brains. So let’s gather everyone together so I can tell all what we have found.” He stoked Berd.

        “So does that help you any?” Jack asked moving to stand by Cyan.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Not Sir, please Cyan, just James."

"I'd like that, but you'll have to give me a moment to warm up before I cross so much as broomsticks with you."


Momentarily distracted from his intention of greeting Jonnee, James moves a step or two or away and begins with some basic stretches.  He's just about to move to his footwork drills when Jack calls for people to gather in.

"Some other time perhaps Cyan?" he says regretfully.

He waits attentively for what Jack may have to say.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Relieved that things are going so well between Aaron and Jack now, Cyan turns to concentrate on James and his acceptance of her offer.  Topaz eyes sparkle at the thought of crossing...well, crossing wood with someone, just for a little practice, and she laughs at James' comment about warming up, giving him a quick bow.  "As you wish, James.  I-"

Then Jack calls out, and James states his regret as Cyan, too, realizes there will be no time for practice today.  "Indeed," she returns to him as Jack moves up beside her, "another time.  I will keep it in mind.  Jack, I am ready to listen and, if need be, to speak."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian appears, looking as if he hasn't had quite enough sleep, nor a bath. They were gathering again, apparently. "What transpires?" he asks.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron nodded in appreciation of Jack's knowledge, and even more so for his suggestions. "I agree with you about getting Fiona's help. Not only will it keep one less problem off of our backs, but it will keep my relatives in Amber wary of the obvious threat this enemy represents." A smile, and a hand on Jack's shoulder. "It's good to have you back."

Then he turns to James and Dorian and speaks in a somewhat more commanding tone.

"As soon as the rest of the group joins us, we'll get down to business. I'd prefer to have to repeat Jack's information only once, though I'm sure I'll fail at that." He chuckled there, and shook his head.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej keeps staring out to see until at one unspoken signal he abruptly turns back to the rest of the group and with a few brisk steps heads over to the gatherum.

"Good morning to you all and well met again after last night's - excitement."

He looks at Jack at his last word, winking once at his enigmatic comrade-in-arms.

"I gather a new war-concil is about to start."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
    Jack glanced at Cyan and James with a contemplative look and though for a moment “I am so sorry,” He said “There seems to be never enough time, yet we need to grab what we can when we can.”  With an honest look of concern on his face. “Please spar, we have to wait on Kaelyn anyway. That is if it alright with Aaron.”  He smiled at the packs leader.

       Something in him remembered how he and Kalika struggled for time, and the prices he paid in Leonardo’s eyes for taking it.  “We should hold the counsel of war when all are ready, fresh and thinking their best. Though I would suggest moving to Cyan’s to freshen up, spar and do what we need for planning, moral and bonding of our pack.”

     He glanced at Dorian and nodded silently in greeting. “Just making preparations.” he replied.

    The turned his attention to the one eyed Amber man “Aaron, I beg a favor… Go ahead and speak with Fiona, so that our friends may have time, to spar. Once you are done  I recommend we retire to Cyan’s cabin.” He held the Amber mans eye for a moment.



    Jack broke the stare off with Aaron first turning to Andrej with a apologetic smile “Looks like I may have been crying wolf again,” he shrugged and moved over by the big man “ But I will be happy to talk to you and Dorian getting your opinions on  things if Aaron chooses to talk with Princess Fiona and Cyan spars with James.”

His gaze slides across each member of the group in turn. “How many of you have planqu- er Trumps of anything to do with Amber, chaos or their denizens, may I ask?”

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian nods amiably to Jack's explanation.

To his other question, Dorian simply says, "Unfortunately, I know not anything called... planquertrumps... "

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Finally rested and stretched out, Kaelyn emerges from her cabin and in full armor with winged helmet on her head. She needs it incase someone brings down the roof again on them. She goes looking for James.

Her sword is in an alternate form and hidden on her person in easy access while her hands are gauntleted.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James seems noncommittal, "I don't know Jack.  Neither Jonnee or Kaelyn seems the type to oversleep, I'm sure they'll join us soon.  Why don't I go and find Fiona so we can get this wrapped up and be off to Cyan's home.  We might get time to spar then, while the rest of you finish preparations for our next move."

James looks to Aaron for permission to go and find Fiona.

"I don't have any Trumps.  Bleys seemed to think I'd just get myself in trouble if I had access to the rest of the family." James grins. "He might have been right."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Having already greeted Andrej, Cyan gives him a quick smile and a nod.  "And a fine morning to you, Dorian."

"No, Jack," she replies to his comment, a slight smile on her face.  "'Tis best if we get this boat underweigh, as it were.  I can wait for the practice - I suspect I shall be acquiring enough of it during this quest, in any case.  Dorian, these are the palanquet of which Jack spoke - some have similar devices they call Trump."  She holds out her deck, then pulls her own card to show him, handing it to him should he accept.  "Are you familiar?  They are a means of communication and transport, creating a psychic link with the one pictured, should they accept the contact.  In addition, there are palanquet of places, allowing one to transport oneself instantly."

Berd flies up into the air during this, then spirals down to land on Cyan's arm.  "Jonnee is asleep with Hunter upon the foredeck," the Bard notes.  "I am certain Kaelyn will find her way here, soon enough.  She does not seem to be the type to oversleep."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian does his best to smile and bow politely in response to Cyan's greeting. It takes more effort than the others probably realize.

"Fascinating," Dorian says studying the card that she showed him. "I've never heard of such a thing, but I would be very interested to learn more. Perhaps... you could tell me more, when there is time?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
    Lenore sat quietly on Aaron’s shoulder watching the goings on, but she seemed to take a particular interest in his ear as she waited for the next cigarette to appear.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“He may have been more right then you know James.” Jack says with a smile “If any of you have palanquet’s associated with Amber or Chaos, I highly recommend that you do not use them.”

        Reached out and stoked Berd as he moved back across to stand by Cyan.  “As you to wish, I just have the feeling that previously on this quest time for simple pleasures weighed heavily on me. If I took them I was letting everyone down or holding things up, if I didn’t I was missing out on the things that mattered most in life.” He rested his hands on Cyan’s shoulders and began to massage them.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Not surprisingly, the cigarette does appear as if by magic. First it's in his hand, then it rested right behind his left ear, by Lenore.

"Smoke 'em if you've got 'em, ladies and gentlemen." he announced, somewhat amused.

He nodded to James, and cocked his head towards the aft of the ship. "You were reading my mind, friend. Please politely inform the Lady Fiona that we require her attentions, for we will be getting underway soon." He paused, then added: "Oh, and if you see Kaelyn, please inform her that we're awaiting her arrival."

Aaron gazed up at the skies above, as if musing.

"Our visit to Cyan's cabin will be for preparation for our journey, and to gain a little exercise before we go. Trust me when I say that you should get as much as possible while we're there. You're going to miss the freedom once we've left."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
With surprising speed the black bird, snatches the  smoke from Aaron’s hand and takes to wing in a puff of noxious smelling smoke.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James takes off at a jog, headed for the nearest hatch.  He stops only long enough to ask the location of Fiona's cabin from a nearby crewman - although he'd be amazed if it was anything but the captain's room in the stern of the ship - before disappearing from sight.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Dorian, I would be more than willing to explain the theory behind the palanquet to you as we travel," Cyan replies to the man, "though Berd, as my teacher, might be a better choice...should he wake up."  Berd looks mildly amused, then puts his head down again.  "I plan to create a palanquet of each of us, then continue from there, making more so that we all have lines of communication.  That is, if nobody objects."

"You have to remember to live, Jack of Shadows," Cyan notes as Jack moves behind her.  "To push too hard is to risk crumbling..."  Her voice trails off as Jack's fingers dig into the muscles of her shoulders.  She flushes briefly, ducking her head, then laughs, amethyst eyes sparkling in the morning sun.  Berd, more than a little annoyed, scrambles around, crawling up on top of her head as Jack disturbs his perch.  Cyan can't help but laugh more, at that.  It's a bizarre picture she paints, now, the disgruntled dragon crowning her like an odd, living headpiece, but the bard doesn't seem to mind in the least, leaning back slightly into Jack's hands.

Lenore's disappearance earns her another disgusted look from Berd - a slight wind picks up to drag the scent from the air around them.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I understand," is all Dorian says in return, as he looks at Berd and back again. "I shall be sure to consult with the dragonoid creature, as well. I must admit I am concerned about having a Palanquet of myself made, since I don't what kind of connection or power it grants the wielder over me. Obviously, it is a matter of trust, and I will acquiesce, but it will also help to know more about the nature of these things."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Dorian," Cyan says to the dark man, "I will hold off forging a palanquet for you until you are completely comfortable with it.  I do not believe in making such things for people unless they truly wish for them - I have a sketch made, but that is all, and I will destroy it."  She shrugs, but her emerald eyes are very serious.  "The sketch is a work of minutes - I can do another one should you reconsider."

Berd favours the cloaked man with a quick look, obviously amused at the situation, then goes back to sitting atop Cyan's head.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"No, keep your sketch, Cyan. I can tell from the conversation that it is an important tool for communication. Since my means of communicating beyond a single world are limited, it is quite necessary. Besides, I am fully confident in my abilities to defend my mind from intrusion of nearly any kind."

Turning his attention to Berd, Dorian adds, "I am also curious about your companion. I can discern that it isn't a normal creature, if such a classification exists, but I am unable to fathom its unique nature."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan nods, as best she can with Berd on her head and Jack's hands on her shoulders.  "Very well...I will keep to the sketch.  In fact, I can give you a palanquet of myself with which to experiment, should you so desire, before forging one of you."

Amusement shines in her topaz eyes as he asks after Berd.  "Berd...Berd is singular.  Berd is, as he puts it, and I know of no better way to describe him.  He is my mentor in many arts, and my friend in my wanderings.  He-"  Cyan stops, raising her eyebrows for a moment.  "Certainly,"

Berd's eyes glitter as he turns his head towards Dorian.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
  The raven glided down to land on Jacks shoulder dropping the cigarette to the deck.  She looked at Berd for a moment  before letting out a bad imitation of cawing laughter.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
       An impish grin formed on Jack’s face where he stood behind Cyan, he released one of her  shoulders transferring the other smoothly to work the muscles of her neck.  Amazingly for Jack he said nothing  as he grinned wickedly.

Aaron told me to be myself.



===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
It's hard for Cyan to see, underneath the mess Berd is making of her hair, but she rolls her sapphire eyes 'backward', trying to look at Jack over her shoulder.  "Jack of Shadows," she murmurs quietly, "what cleverness goes through your mind, now?"

Out of her sight, Berd gives a long-suffering sigh, and shifts again.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
         “Nothing worse than usual Cyan, I am just stealing you for a bit.” Jack said focusing all of his attention down at something behind Cyan  “I hope you all don’t mind.” he added to everyone

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn meets James as he goes below deck, "Are you now rested and prepared for wherever we go next?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian smirks, meeting Berd's gaze for a moment with a small nod of his head.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd suddenly lifts from Cyan's head with an irritated expression, right before Cyan's topaz eyes widen.  "Jack, wha-"

A blur - a rainbow shimmer - Cyan and Jack dissolve into sparkles -

Berd settles to the deck, looking mildly piqued that his perch has disappeared.



Of Cyan and Jack, there is no sign.  They have vanished.

Berd, yawning, flaps up to land on Aaron's shoulder.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
There was a glint behind Aaron's eye as a thought emerged behind it. That thought crawled up towards the back of his skull, and siezed his brain like the taloned claw of a certain one-eyed raven.

"Ah. Not a bad idea, that." And then he glanced to Berd, then Jack, and then Cyan before looking to Dorian.

"Dorian, if you would, please inform everyone once they get here, that Cyan, Jack and myself have gone to prepare for the journey. There are a couple of things I need to confirm before we leave, and I'd prefer to do it in private. I'll be sure not to keep everyone waiting, however."

"Cyan? Jack? Please join me in my cabin, if you would."

Reaching up to scratch Berd behind his head, he then proceeded back in the direction of his cabin.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Of course," Dorian says simply, turning his attention from Berd. He only assumed that Berd would go wherever the three of them would go, and their conversation was over. No matter, there were things to be done.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Of course his cabin was figurative. He'd be staying in the same place along with everyone else once the time came. Still, he did need to return to his own place, to gather his things.

"Berd," he said politely to the drake on his shoulder, "please inform Cyan that we will be joining them once all is assembled. Oh, and if they need a little extra time, tell them that I'll do what I can for them." A small, amused chuckle followed that, and he shook his head.

Returning to his room, he removed his jacket (making sure Berd was comfortable before doing so), donned the Armor Herzkrieg, and then replaced both drake and coat upon his person.

Leaving his quarters, he then proceeded in the direction of Fiona's quarters. He knew full well that James was on his way to get her.

But Aaron wasn't going to meet with Fiona. No. Rather, he needed to make sure his extended family was comfortable and well taken care of before he departed.

And he knew, deep down, that Chrissie was more than likely raring to chew him out.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James replies to Kaelyn's question "Yes, thank you. I slept well.  As for ready, well, as ready as I'm going to get."

"I'm just going to find Fiona, the others have gathered up on deck.  Aaron is going to announce our next destination.  If you'll excuse me?"


James follows the crewman's instructions until he finds Fiona's cabin.  He knocks on the door, then announces himself. "Princess Fiona, it's James.  Aaron would like to speak with you concerning our next destination."

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn continues up onto the deck as a result of the little talk with James. She looks a little relieved to sse that JAck is not present as she looks over her companions. She will have to learn about them when she gets a chance but only what they chose to tell.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee wakes as people start to move around on the deck, and pushes Hunter to one side so that he can get up, ignoring the grumbling of the wolf.  He stretches, scratches, and wanders across to where the others are gathering.
Hope there's a good breakfast laid on.
He stifles a yawn, and says, "Morning all, what's happening?"

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian continues to watch Berd with a faint hint of concentration upon his face as he studies the creature.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd, bobbing away on Aaron's shoulder, slowly turns his head around to face Dorian and gives him a needle-toothed grin.  Not threatening - it's just his normal, wide smile.

He winks.  Once.

===========================================================
Re: Part 28 - The telling of tales by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Many minutes later, Aaron, Berd upon his shoulder once more, strolled out from the confines of the ship and returned to the deck.

"This is it!" he yelled, and made sure everyone else (practically on the ship) could hear him. "Once I'm sure Fiona gets the message that Amber needs to bolster the defenses of the worlds around the Kingdom, we're getting off this boat."

"All aboard!"

===========================================================