Log Date: 4/1/96 Log Intro: The Whitecold has gone reasonably smoothly at Lostholt -- for mostly everyone except Rayek, who has been guesting there along with Ekuar ever since he and the ancient rockshaper have brought Ember home to her tribe. But Rayek has grown restless, and his spirit has not been exactly soothed by the joining he's shared with Ember, for he's sure that her apparent attraction to him will hardly please her father. And at last, with the spring coming, Rayek decides it is time to return to the Palace. Log Cast: Rayek, Cutter, Leetah, Ekuar, Ember, Strongbow, Berrybuzz, Ynderra, Myriel, Talyrath ---------- Leetah locksends ** Rayek? Are you busy? ** You locksend to Leetah, Rayek answers back clearly, but startledly, as if still surprised to feelyour mental touch. ** I... am here. ** Leetah locksends ** <> Where is here? I have something for you. ** You locksend ** In the den... where Ekuar and I have been staying. He sleeps. ** to Leetah. Leetah locksends ** <> Then shall we meet outside? ** You locksend ** ......... As you wish. ** to Leetah. [Rayek ventures out of the Father Tree, warily...] You walk back out of the Father Tree. Base of the Lost Holt Father Tree(#765RJ) A dense grove of grotesquely shaped trees dominated by one immense Grandfather of a tree whose age is no less great than its size. It is obvious that the old tree has survived a terrible tragedy but new growth and thick strong branches cover the worst of the scars left by the terrible blaze. Weeds and night blooming wildflowers grow in a riot of natural disorder around the trees roots, taking advantage of the NewGreen warmth. Like old friends, the gnarled trees embrace one another, their many branches entwining to form a dense canopy high above the ground. The daystar shines brightly down on the hazy green surrounding trees, waking the forest from its long WhiteCold sleep. Contents: Leetah Mirrormoons Calmwind(#7032Jopq) Obvious exits: Into the Tree Around the Tree Clearing Leetah smiles brightly at you, holding something red and gold in her arms. Leetah looks at you for a moment. Leetah holds her arms to you, bundle and all. Rayek comes out of the tree, frowning somewhat, and regarding you tentatively. He's been avoiding everyone in the Holt all winter; he's gotten sallow, too, with the season, and his movements are restless. Leetah smiles at you, a warm ray of sunshine in the chill. Rayek cracks a faint smile at the sight of you, despite his uncharacteristic solitude. And steps forward, his amber gaze falling to the bundle. "What..." Leetah lowers her green eyes to the petal-soft leather. "A cloak." It is, indeed, a cloak, a lovely crimson obviously of Moonshade's manufacture. Gold adorns the lower edge, and you may remember the gold as having once been on Leetah's own skirt. It has been remade, used to make this finely crafted wolfrider cloak into something made for a Sun Villager. Rayek stares down at it, and catches his breath, just a bit. Leetah smiles gently. Rayek studies your face, divining the intent; it's a gift, of course, he realizes. But he seems startled. "I... am surprised..." Leetah winks merrily. "It is a parting gift, as I told Cutter." Leetah teases gently, but her intent is clear. It is a gesture of friendship for one who is going away. The problematical nature of staying is not discussed. It is merely a gesture of remembered affection, a token for the coming seasons. Rayek lifts a brown hand, expression strangely gentle. "Thank you," he says, quietly. Cutter walks out of the Father Tree. Rayek stands, near Leetah, eyeing the red-and-gold bundle in her arms a trifle bemusedly. Leetah looks over to her lifemate with a happy smile. Leetah laughs, "Well, put it on!" Cutter appears in, but doesn't step out of the opening in the Father Tree. Watching, it would seem, belatedly. Arms tucked across his chest lightly. Rayek's mouth quirks slightly; seeing Leetah's attention distract, he glances over his shoulder. At the sight of Cutter his stance turns notably wary; he straights, slightly, adding a finger-width to his height. But he nods politely enough, as he accepts the cloak from Leetah, experimentally settling it about his shoulders. Leetah smiles proudly at Rayek, and moves to stand by Cutter. "It suits you, Rayek." she says. Leetah lays one arm gently around Cutter's waist as she watches Rayek. Cutter nods a little. "It.. suits you," he echoes. And just how deep did he have to dig to work that comment out around his teeth and tongue? Who knows? Rayek turns to face you both. "Thank you," he says again, voice taut, though now he eyes the healer's mate as well as the healer. For an instant, he might look uncertain, as he considers the etiquette of this: offer something in return? That seems the best way, and he begins, "I shall provide meat, in exchange, before Ekuar and I depart..." Leetah looks somewhat curiously at Rayek. "A gift freely given requires no compensation." Her lips twitch into a smile, "We are not traders, old friend." Leetah squeezes Cutter softly. You sense in a locksend, Cutter sends, almost cautiously, and definitely carefully, ** She worked at it out of her concern and care for you, airwalker. Take it in the spirit it was meant. ** Rayek flicks his amber gaze from chieftain to healer and back again. Expression ever so slightly uneasy, he nods, once. "Ekuar and I... have imposed on you long enough. At sundown we will set out to return for the Palace." Leetah locksends ** I did not mean for you to leave -this- evening. ** Leetah locksends ** Unless that was what you had already planned. ** Rayek glances away, saying as if in response to something unspoken, "The Palace... has gone unguarded long enough, as well. And I have a promise to fulfill." Cutter sends openly ** And Ember? ** Rayek turns his head slightly towards Cutter, but not far enough to look the wolf-chief directly in the eye. "What of her?" The question, like the airwalker's stance, is wary. Cutter's eyes narrow, just slightly. "Will you take her back to the Palace with you? Or leave her here..?" Leetah murmurs, "Lifemate, is that not Ember's decision?" Rayek swings his gaze fully to Cutter, now, and his black eyebrows draw together. ** I was not aware, ** he sends, levelly, ** that I possessed any power over where Ember goes. ** Cutter uncurls an arm to hold a staying hand up to Leetah, and shakes his head at Rayek. "You have no power to keep her in a place, but you have the power to tell her whether you want her company or not." That seems to take Rayek aback, and he noticeably blinks, before quickly regaining his composure and once more turning slightly away. Leetah's face turns sorrowful. Cutter seems to stand a little straighter, as Rayek looks away again. "The Palace's halls will be open to all, when Ekuar and I return," Rayek says, at last, quietly. It takes every bit of composure Cutter has not to snort. "That doesn't answer the question." Leetah looks back and forth between Cutter and Rayek, eyebrows knit, expression concerned. Rayek does not look round again, as he finally responds, shortly, "Should Ember wish to travel to the Palace with us, she will be... welcome." Cutter simply watches Rayek, levelly. At the answer however, he shakes his head, and turns as if to disappear into the tree again. Leetah locksends ** <> Would she -truly-? ** Leetah's eyes follow Rayek, seeking to see what is behind the words. Ekuar walks out of the Father Tree. Ekuar hobbles out, a half-wrapped bundle dangling over his arm. "Brownskin, have you seen my..." he trails off, and beams as he sees Leetah and Cutter. Rayek, standing a short distance off with the new cloak from Leetah hanging from his shoulders, glances round tensely at the sound of Ekuar's voice. Cutter faces into the tree from which Ekuar just hobbled, apparently. Perhaps he wasn't paying attention, or.. something. He scowls, up at the inside of the trunk overhead. Rayek flicks a glance, and a sending, at Leetah... Leetah smiles at Ekuar. Ekuar shuffles toward Leetah, props his staff against his side and reaches out for one of her hands, his aged face bright with a joyful smile. You locksend ** She has... helped me. ** to Leetah. Leetah takes his hand in both of her own, expression welcoming and gentle. "Ekuar." Leetah locksends ** <> She feels rejected. You might seek to remedy that. ** Leetah locksends ** If you truly care. ** Rayek's mouth tightens, at something sent, and he jerks his gaze out southward across the clearing. Ekuar's eyes twinkle, lingering lovingly on the healer's face. "Oh! Pretty healer, I want to thank you, indeed." His gnarled thumb smoothes Leetah's darkskinned hand. "You've done my Brownskin such a service. And me, eh, as well, by easing his heart you've made my own light. Hm?" Cutter turns and steps down out of the tree, finally. With nothing else said except a, "I will hunt," he heads off. Cutter walks around to the back of the Father Tree. Cutter has left. Leetah smiles benignly, "I am pleased to have been able to ease some suffering." Her tone has an undercurrent of 'tho there is more which must be eased by choice'. You sense in a locksend, Cutter sends, softened by distance, though the intent is no less serious, ** Treat her well, Rayek. Whether she goes with you, or visits. Treat her well, or I will have your ears. ** Rayek jerks stiff, suddenly, and stares off into the trees, startled. Ekuar's thin, gentle lips quirk slightly, seemingly in understanding of the layered tones of Leetah's reply. He tips his hairless head to one side, his joy now tinged by fond wistfulness. "Well, my dear, no one else could have brought the measure of peace you did. Eh! It was what I had hoped for." Leetah smiles fondly at Ekuar, eyes warm with recognition of their shared affection for Rayek. Rayek abruptly scowls, but says nothing, perhaps save for a mutter of, "I have _tried_, wolf-chief..." Leetah looks up, expression once again concerned. Leetah squeezes Ekuar's hands gently, and gives Rayek one last gentle look before returning to her den. Leetah walks up into the rough opening that leads into the tree. Leetah has left. [With both Leetah and Cutter left, Rayek is at something of a loss. Ekuar totters off to finish the last of his packing, leaving the restless airwalker lingering among the trees of the Holt.] You sense in a locksend, Ember's sending is less conscious thought than a tentative brush outwards, searching for your presence. You locksend to Ember, Rayek sends back, somewhat bemusedly, a sense of himself out in the Holt, waiting for Ekuar. You walk away from the tree, back into the clearing that marks the entrance to the Lost Holt. Lost Holt Clearing The land of the Abode surrounds you. Here is where the elves of Lost Holt Gather for tribe councils, howls and receiving visitors from other tribes. This large clearing is fringed by slender saplings that have sprung up after the fire so many turns ago. The ground is packed in tightly and covered with twigs and some fallen branches. In the center lies a stone ring. It lies unlit now and filled with rocks and leaves as the time of the Newgreen comes to release the holt of the grip of the the whitecold season. There are many roots to sit on as well as one particularly large branch, that looks to have fallen sometime during the fierce season of death-sleep. As the daystar sets the air turns chilly in the NewGreen evening. Contents: Denning Tree Obvious exits: Path Hill Approach to the Father Tree Ember locksends ** You're leaving, then. ** You locksend ** ...... yes. ** to Ember. Strongbow walks over from the Father Tree. Strongbow pauses near a tree, brows going up; he considers a send, but halts it unmade, and slips back a step into the evening shadows, not terribly silent. Rayek stands, leaning against a tree, his arms crossed along his chest. His dark head is bent as if in inwardly-directed reflection; however, at the tiny rustle nearby, he jerks his gaze up, eyebrows knitting together over the bridge of his brown nose. Doubtful of the mood of Cutter's best hunter and guard, Rayek frowns slightly. But allows himself as polite a nod as he can manage. Strongbow nods in return, deciding on the send. ** Thinking. ** Almost a question, more clearly a statement, it's a bit awkward -- the archer, aware the airwalker's been about for some time, hasn't done much but keep watch in his own silent way. His expression, though, coming clear as he remakes his step into the dimming light, is strangely lacking in any trace of surliness. Rayek shifts his stance against the tree slightly, turning his wary regard to the other hunter. ** You, or me? ** he returns. The archer's face registers a shadow of a smile, wry, as his head bobs as if to allow a point made. ** You, ** he replies. ** Granted, ** Rayek allows. There's query threatened through his sending -- a sending grown sharper since the last time, years ago, the archer has seen the airwalker or heard him send. Chewing on that, Strongbow looks away, past the airwalker and past the trees into something inside his mind. He does not send, letting the air hang as it will, neither provoking nor chasing away the threat, waiting for this new style of the airwalker's to assert itself more clearly. Whatever this new style of his might be, Rayek does not choose to press his query. Instead, he sends only, ** Ekuar and I leave tonight. ** Rayek stands leaning against a tree, arms crossed along his chest, and apparently trying to decide whether to look or not look at Strongbow. Ember pads in quietly, hand closed around something; a glint of silver is visible across the backs of her knuckles. Strongbow looks back to Rayek, eyes flickering to Ember with the slightest hint of a nod that, at best, makes his hair shimmer a bit redly. ** There will be farewells? ** Ember nods, absently, to Strongbow, in greeting, glance going to Rayek. Rayek stiffens, first at the question, then at the entrance of Cutter and Leetah's daughter. Is Rayek actually... nervous? If he is, it is noticeable only by a slight twitch in the hollow of his throat, above where the new red cloak he wears is clasped. ** Are they... wanted? ** To whom he speaks is possibly unclear. The archer's brows rise a bit as Ember looks toward the airwalker and more so at Rayek's answer. The same not-quite-wryness flickers through his brown gaze and, quietly, he retreats to a tree farther in holtward. Ember presses her lips together, then produces a crooked smile at Rayek's send. ** They are, ** is her simple reply. Ember looks at you for a moment. Rayek closes a brown hand on the front of the cloak, perhaps as if to draw it better around him. Perhaps reminded, he glances off at Strongbow. ** I owe your mate thanks for this. ** Strongbow inclines his head, once, to the chief's daughter, and sends to Rayek with a mild undercurrent of bemusement. ** She'll know. ** Rayek responds with a single brusque nod of his own, then faces Ember once more. ** It is time Ekuar and I returned to the Palace. ** Ember's expression flashes faint exasperation, colored with amusement, and then she takes a step towards Rayek. "I had...I wanted..." Why is it that she can't finish a sentence around the airwalker? ** I know. ** ** You wanted...? ** prompts Rayek, oddly patiently. Ember sighs, abruptly frustrated with her own awkwardness, and then lifts her hand, letting the object in it fall free on its glittering chain. It is the silver wolfhead necklace that she has worn for more than twenty turns. ** To give you this. As... ** Her shoulders shift slight, an uncomfortable shrug. ** As a .. so you'd ... remember me. ** Brown gaze calculatedly indifferent until now, the archer's eyes flicker from the item in Ember's hand to its usual place upon her, now lacking it. Silent in the waiting silence, he turns to watch Rayek, eyes narrowing the slightest bit. Rayek's eyes widen, as he steps forward a pace, hand lifting involuntarily. ** You will say, then? ** The question comes out unexpectedly fast, sharp. Perhaps worried. Or relieved. It's anyone's guess. Ember's chin lifts slightly, her sending as sharp and quick in return: ** Have I a reason to go? ** Berrybuzz silently arrives from the sky above the clearing. Berrybuzz flutters down intot he clearing singing in it's screeching voice "DREET DREE DIRI DREET!" Rayek begins to frame a reply, before Berrybuzz's entrance makes him draw in a harsh breath. He scowls, glancing away. Mercifully, Petalwing seems absent. Berrybuzz says "Hello Highthings." Ember's eyes jerk from Rayek's face to the noisily arriving bug. ** Strongbow, I don't suppose you could put an arrow in that thing... ** Strongbow's eyes match the flight of the Preserver. Grouchily, he replies, ** Would it matter? ** Ember cracks a grin. ** It might. ** Her eyes return to Rayek, the Preserver summarily ignored. Looking meaningfully at the bug, then down at his fingertips sliding over the curve of his bow, then back at Berrybuzz, the archer falls quiet once more. Berrybuzz flutters about before settling on a law tree branch, watching the elves carefully. Rayek still wears a scowl, though his golden eyes hold an odd liquid glimmer that contradicts the fierce tightness of his features. He lifts his head once more, though, and regards Ember levelly. ** The Palace's halls will be open to all... ** Ember sends openly ** Timmorn's /blood/, Rayek, can't you /ever/ just say what you /mean/? ** Ember flicks her hand, loosening the chain from around her knuckles, and drops the necklace into Rayek's hand, then reaches up to pinch the bridge of her nose, shaking her head. Rayek's scowl tightens. ** If you will allow me to finish -- ** But the abrupt handing over of the necklace prevents that, yet again. Ember, a trifle planitively, sends, ** Then /finish/...? ** Rayek stares down at the silver thing in his fingers. And sends, but privately. Ember gave you Wolfhead necklace. You locksend ** If you wished... to travel back with Ekuar and me, you would be... welcome. ** to Ember. Wolfhead necklace A silver pin, intricately formed into a wolf's head. The eyes glitter greenly. The clasp of the pin has been forced into permenant closing, and has had a silver chain forged to it. Ember, too, looks at the necklace in Rayek's hand, decreeing it safer than looking at anything else, and her reply is as silent as his. You sense in a locksend, Ember's reply is hesitating. ** Welcome...is not quite...the same as wanted. ** Ekuar walks over from the Father Tree. Leetah walks over from the Father Tree. Leetah smiles brightly as she enters. Rayek's brown fingers tighten slightly on the necklace, but the shape of it, the reality, is disturbing: a wolf's head. Given by a she-wolf. His scowl wavers a bit, as something is exchanged between him and Ember. Strongbow stands in the deepening evening shadow of one of the trees edging the clearing, watching Rayek and Ember, silent. Ember stands just in front of Rayek, eyes locked on the necklace in his hands. Leetah approaches Ekuar, greeting him quietly. Ekuar hobbles into the clearing, breathing deeply of the evening air, blinking around with obvious enjoyment at the holt in springtime. Disconcertingly, Petalwing is perched right on top and in the center of the ancient's bare, bald head. Rayek lifts his gaze to Ember, then, still unaware of the new arrivals. His expression sis almost stern, save for the lingering glimmer in his eyes. Petalwing gives a glad screech and a leap, flinging itself into the air to flitflitflit right at Leetah, grabbing a handful of the healer's curls. // Softpretty Highthing! Hellohellohellohellohello! // Leetah chuckles softly, raising a hand to the preserver. Strongbow sends, in a world separate from the airwalker and the chieftain's daughter, wordless warning to the healer and firstborn -- a almost cheerful warning. He winces, though, hard, as Petalwing interrupts his wish for silence. Ember, in turn, is aware of the arrivals; scents carried on the wind would tell her even if, wince, Petalwing didn't, though her eyes don't leave Rayek as she lifts them to regard him. Ekuar beams fondly at Leetah, bobbing his head in reply to her greeting. At Strongbow's warning, he cocks his head curiously, wondering eyes moving from Ember to Rayek, considering the necklace. Strongbow shakes his head, giving up. ** <...> ** Leetah smiles gently, understanding the gesture. Even the preserver cannot edge her mood. You locksend to Ember, Rayek's send turns wordless. The flavor of such an admission is unfamiliar to him, and as if not quite sure he likes it, he grudgingly allows that yes, he would-- Rayek jerks, then, his attention distracted at Petalwing's screech of a greeting. Petalwing gives an acrobatic swoop and lands lightly atop Leetah's head, sprawling happily stomach-down in the soft, riotous curls. // Petalwing here now! // it carols. // Here to look after all the pretty highthings! // Rayek sucks in a slow breath; his eyes clamp shut for a moment, and the skin along his cheekbones noticeably reddens. Leetah smiles, watching Rayek and Ember. Strongbow raises a brow at the airwalker's expression and, deciding to look elsewhere, fixes a studious glare on Petalwing. Ember closes her eyes, reaching to pinch the bridge of her nose again, and with an undefinable touch, sends, ** Hello, Mother, Ekuar... ** and shakes her head helplessly. Petalwing, as usual, lets the darker implications of the archer's glare sail right over its little head. It basks in the attention. So many highthings to care for and sing to, after such a long time with only the wandering three! // Wolfarrow highthing! // it cries joyfully. // Want Petalwing feed him berrysweets now? // Leetah says in a soft, amused voice, "No, thank you Petalwing." You sense in a locksend, Ember's sending seems a little lost. ** I can't seem to hold a straight conversation with you...it was easier when your head was wrong. I...Rayek, I ... oh, /puckernuts/. ** Rayek opens his eyes warily, glowering at the cheery Preserver. "Leetah," he says, almost grimly. "Ekuar..." Rayek reddens again, for no apparent reason. Berrybuzz watches quietly. Strongbow looks very unpleasant at the preserver and, gruffly, shakes his head in agreement with Leetah's answer. Leetah chuckles softly, familiar with Rayek's overdelicate pride. She gazes fondly at Ekuar and patpats little Petalwing. Ekuar gives a fond smile to both Ember and Rayek, benign and woolly on the surface... although some of the undercurrents seem to have reached him, for his mild eyes carry unspoken sympathy. You locksend to Ember, Rayek finally manages, gruffly, ** If you wish to... come with us. ** It is not quite a request, not quite a command. It allows, also, the possibility of your remaining with your tribe, in your home. Petalwing flitters its wings appreciatively as Leetah gives it a pat, and rises up to plant tiny hands on tiny hips, scowling musically at Berrybuzz. // What for Berrybuzz not feeding highthings honeyflowers? // it demands. //Petalwing cannot do do do all by Petalwing's self! // Berrybuzz tosses its hands in the air, "Hometree highthings tell Berrybuzz not feed highthings, so berrybuzz not feed highthings" Ember's fingers spread to cover her eyes as she tries to ignore the bugs and reply sensibly to the silent conversation between herself and Rayek. Shoulders tense, she sends again, and this time, .her. cheeks begin to burn. Leetah tilts her head and holds her hands out to Berrybuzz, "Come, Preservers, I think Cutter would like to hear you sing..." Ember locksends ** Airwalker, I ... care for you. I would like t-- ** Leetah smiles what on any other elf would be with utter evil. On her it is merely playfulness. Ember's head jerks up, and she half turns to stare at Leetah, her sending interrupted, and then she laughs aloud. "Mother, that's cruel." Rayek, still glowering -- though at what is uncertain -- concentrates on remaining calm. Breathe in. Breathe out. How difficult can a leavetaking be? Yet, perhaps almost frightenedly, he flicks a glance into the trees as if wondering who else will corner him, before he eyes Ember again. Petalwing considers this answer and gives an imperious nod.At Leetah's invitation, it visibly perks up and shivers its wings in a colorful blur. // We singsingsing for wolfchief highthing!!! // Berrybuzz grins and flies happily to Leetah, "Berrybuzz sing nice,!" Leetah smiles. Leetah says "I know. Let's go find him. I think he is in our den." Strongbow sends nothing, eyes going wry with a narrow smile. Petalwing rides happily atop Leetah's head, gripping two curls in its hands. Leetah walks toward the Father Tree. Ember nods a little at her mother, then turns back to face Rayek, eyes unhidden but for the shadow of flame-colored curls, now. Berrybuzz flutters off Berrybuzz walks toward the Father Tree. You sense in a locksend, Ember's sending changes its tone somewhat, turning from what she'd been going to send to something easier: ** If...you are asking, I would...like to join you... ** Rayek's features soften, strangely. You locksend ** I... have already held you away from your tribe, for years now... ** to Ember. Ember lets out something of a laugh, near soundless, and shakes her head a bit. Ekuar lets his gaze drift from his student and the huntress, smiling absently as he tightens the leather bundle he has fastened to his staff. Ember locksends ** I... oh, Rayek. I have two paths here, in the holt. One is to become chieftess, but Cutter is chief and will live a long time. The other is to be Minx' mother, but I am not a good mother. I am lost on those paths, now. Could we not search for a new one? ** Ekuar's single hand, gnarled yet deft as it adjusts his travel-pack, stills. He blinks quietly, thoughtfully, his eyes focused on nothing... then he glances up, gentle old eyes finding Ember, and gives a compassionate nod. Rayek studies Ember, blinking once, the liquid glimmer returning to his gaze. You locksend ** If... your pack will not object... ** to Ember. Strongbow tilts his head a bit, watching the three. After a time, he slips away with a salient nod, to himself, something sent silent in the air behind him. Strongbow walks toward the Father Tree. Ember locksends ** My pack, or my chief...? ** Ekuar drops his eyes again, effectively giving the two younger elves privacy of sorts. His own attention seems caught up in a slow and gentle examination and tightening of the fastenings of his wooden leg. You sense in a locksend, Strongbow allows, in the background, a brief approval in sending -- brief, as the archer wishes, this time, not to push his luck with your apparent decent mood. ** Good farewells. ** You locksend ** I... thank you. ** to Strongbow. Berrybuzz walks over from the Father Tree. You locksend ** He... is your... chieftain. ** to Ember. Berrybuzz swoops in quickly looking more than slightly scared. Ember closes her eyes momentarily, sending to her tribe, then opens them again to look at Rayek, her send half audible to any listeners. ** If they will give me leave, I will join you... ** Rayek studies Ember a moment more, his fingers flexing and unflexing around the necklace in his grasp. He nods, then, a single time, a bit shakily. Ember locksends ** If I can't join you... ** Rayek lifts his hand with the necklace in it, slightly. You locksend ** If you must remain, I will keep this. To... remember. ** to Ember. Berrybuzz flutters up into the air, still looking panic-stricken Berrybuzz flies up. Berrybuzz has left. Ember's smile is quick, shy, and she nods, glad of the airwalker's understanding. A moment passes, then she steps forward to brush a light kiss over his mouth before moving a few steps back. Murmured, "I should talk to Father..." Ekuar straightens up from his task and leans thoughtfully on his staff, a gentle smile playing about his lips. There's a sparkle in his deep eyes... despite the undoubted difficulties ahead, he finds joy in the pleasure the two young elves take in one another. Rayek murmurs, equally quietly, "We will.... wait." Liquid yet, his eyes nearly shudder closed at Ember's fleeting kiss, then linger on her, as she steps back. With that, his hand moves to slip the silver chain over his head, to tug his black locks free once the necklace is in place. Ember whispers, "Thank you," and then turns to dart back to the Father Tree, with a glance back over her shoulder at Rayek. [As Ember runs off to find her father, Rayek fretfully continues to wait for Ekuar. Here, we fastforward to RP done on 4/9/96, and shift to a scene involving the two troublemakers of Lostholt, the twins Myriel and Ynderra... who have been discussing Rayek, and who have plans of their own in mind for what to give him for a going-away gift...] Myriel walks out of the Father Tree. Leetah smiles to Ynderra, sitting by herself, thinking. Leetah nods to Myriel as well. With a flurry of giggles, Ynderra and her twin sister come bouncing out of the Father Tree. Ynderra pipes gaily, "Hi Leetah!" Myriel giggles. Ynderra locksends ** Oh, I dunno... hehehe... he'll be tough. ** to Myriel. Ynderra, blue eyes glimmering guilelessly, slides over to Leetah. "Is Rayek gone yet?" Ynderra senses in a locksend, Myriel mocks being put-out. *I _suppose_ I could share, if you _really_ want me to...* Ynderra locksends ** Well, >I< got me a cub... *giggle> ** to Myriel. Ynderra senses in a locksend, Myriel giggles. *Yeah, maybe I shouldn't share!* Leetah shakes her head, smiling. "Not yet." A grin crosses Myriel's lips. Leetah arches her brows, amusement playing on her features. "Why?" she asks mildly. Ynderra bounces a bit on her heels. "We want to say goodbye to him! Right, Myriel?" Myriel nods vigerously, then grins at Ynderra. Leetah smiles lightly, "I see." Her eyes twinkle. Ynderra chatters on merrily, "I was thinking, you know, it might be nice to give him a going-away gift... since I know he's been shy around us? Any ideas, Leetah? Where is he?" Leetah chuckles, "I do not know. You can send for him, though." She smiles, "As to a gift. Perhaps something for the journey?" Myriel locksends ** Want me to send for him? Or, we could try to sneak up on him... ** to Ynderra. Ynderra sends to Myriel with ** Well, you're the one wanting to join with him... ** Ynderra nibbles a bit at her lower lip, playfully. "What's he need?" Her hands fidget with one another, sparkling slightly. "I could shape something!" Leetah nods. "Ekuar might want a new staff." Leetah smiles gently, "He deserves gifts too." Myriel nods quietly, looking around distractedly. Ynderra ohs! "A staff! I could do that... what about Rayek, though?" As she chatters, she slides her sister a surreptitious glance. You locksend ** Scent him anywhere? ** to Myriel. Leetah says "Perhaps something to carry things in on his journey?" Cutter walks around from behind the Father Tree. Myriel locksends ** Yeah, kinda. Not sure which way he went, though. ** Leetah raises her head and smiles. Ynderra bounces a little again, then ohs! as Cutter approaches. And she pipes once more, utterly guilelessly, "Hello my chief!" Cutter's eyebrows arch, suspcicion coloring his expression. ** What's broken? ** Leetah laughs, tossing her head back. "Nothing..." Leetah shakes her head, "Just because the three of us are together..." Myriel smiles and waves hi to Cutter. Myriel looks off to the distance, and giggles. Ynderra beams, a chipper glint in her eyes. "I just like the Newgreen, is all, and Myriel and I are looking for Rayek, we're gonna say goodbye to him and I was going to shape him something as a gift, but I don't know what yet." Myriel locksends ** Coming? ** Cutter mmms, nodding. "I'll take your words on it, then." Myriel chuckles. *I'm not sure he trusts us.* Ynderra slides her sister another look, and tries to stifle a giggle. You locksend ** Got him? ** to Myriel. Myriel locksends ** I think so! ** Leetah reaches a hand to guide Cutter to her side. Ynderra attempts to look blandly innocent again, but there's a suspiciously overbright glint in her blue eyes. She sidles back towards her sister again, babbling merrily to Cutter and Leetah, "So if either of you can think of something really quick that I can shape, I can go do it and give it to him, you know?" You locksend ** You want my help? ** to Myriel. You sense in a locksend, Myriel grins. "If you'd like..." Cutter shakes his head a little, moving to Leetah's side. "I haven't a thought." You say "I mean, because the Palace IS nice and shimmery and all, but it's awfully, well, it's NOT very cozy!" Ynderra trails off with another giggle and grins widely at her sister. Myriel walks away from the tree, back into the clearing that marks the entrance to the Lost Holt. You walk away from the tree, back into the clearing that marks the entrance to the Lost Holt. Lost Holt Clearing The land of the Abode surrounds you. Here is where the elves of Lost Holt Gather for tribe councils, howls and receiving visitors from other tribes. This large clearing is fringed by slender saplings that have sprung up after the fire so many turns ago. The ground is packed in tightly and covered with twigs and some fallen branches. In the center there lies a stone ring. It lies unlit now and filled with rocks and leaves as the silky summertime heat brings warmth to the holt. There are many roots to sit on as well as one particularly large branch that may serve to seat more than a few elves. Off to the north you see the massive Father Tree, home to many of the elves of Lost Holt. All is quiet in the heat of the summers day, as elves and wolves both keep to the cool shadows to sleep. Contents: Myriel Denning Tree Obvious exits: Path Hill Approach to the Father Tree Myriel sniffs the air again. Myriel grins. Myriel climbs carefully up the hill that overlooks the river. You climb carefully up the hill that overlooks the river. Hill You decide to climb up the hill. Standing atop the slope, you have an incredible view of the SilverRun river, to the west of the holt and to the Northeast you see the huge branches of the immense father tree in the distance, reaching upward to the sky. The land here rises softly in a gentle slope, then drops off steeply to the river bank which hems in the western side of the holt. The land around you is covered over with rich green grass and dotted with colorful blooms and the silky summertime heat causes the scent of the sweet smelling flowers to tickle your nose. Small butterflies flit to and fro in the late Summertime afternoon Contents: Myriel Rayek Tent(#2391LVae) Obvious exits: Clearing River Bank Along the River Bank Myriel giggles as she gets near. Rayek sits crosslegged on a log, sharpening the point of his spear, and glowering at it sternly. There's a cloak draped off his shoulders, and a necklace -- a wolf's head pendant -- around his neck; it wasn't there before, and it shines against his otherwise drab leathers. Ynderra padpads through the brush after her twin, grinning mischievously. She doesn't quite emerge into view yet. Myriel gives Ynderra a look. Her face seems to read... "What now?" Myriel looks at Rayek again. "Hi Rayek." If he notices that he is under scrutiny, the airwalker doesn't show it; he doesn't look up until Myriel actually speaks up. Only then does he slide a glance up, and then, he blinks, once. And nods, shortly. "Maiden..." As Ynderra peeks around a tree, and waves merrily, he adds, "Maidens." Ynderra smiles cheerfully. "We heard you were going and wanted to say goodbye...!" The motion of Rayek's brown hand, curled around its sharpening rock, slows. He eyes the two young Wolfriders, perhaps warily, perhaps uneasily, and at last nods, once more. "Thank you." Myriel looks over at Ynderra again. Rayek eyes the two again, amber eyes narrowed slightly, then he returns his attention to the sharpening of the spear. Myriel looks at Ynderra, and steps a bit closer to Rayek. With one elbow, Ynderra encouragingly and playfully nudges her sister. Leetah walks up the hill from the clearing to the east. Leetah sneaks in as quietly as she can, hiding behind a tree and peeking around. Ynderra, having ventured just behind Myriel out towards Rayek, misses any trace of the elder healer's arrival. She stands, hands clasped behind her back, and rocks from her toes to her heels and back again, smiling earnestly. Myriel locksends ** Any suggestions? ** to Ynderra. Rayek's methodical sharpening of his spear continues, as he flicks a look at Myriel. Considering the two maidens' continued presence, he says gruffly, "Is there anything more?" Ynderra locksends ** All kinds of 'em, but I'm not sure if he'd poke us with that thing for doing 'em...! ** to Myriel. Leetah peers around the trunk of the tree, watching mischieviously. Myriel locksends ** I might be willing to take my chances. ** to Ynderra. Myriel ummmmmmms.... Rayek pauses in his work, and stares levelly at Myriel. His black eyebrows rise, inquiringly. Ynderra locksends ** Maybe you could give HIM a backrub as a going-away gift? ** to Myriel. Myriel circles around behind Rayek. Rayek cranes his head around, keeping Myriel in his sights, and those black eyebrows abruptly draw together. "Well?" he demands, expectantly. Leetah rests her cheek against her hand on the treetrunk. She watches, smiling. Ynderra senses in a locksend, Myriel giggles. "Well, that wasn't exactly what I had in mind..." Myriel puts a finger to her lips in a "shhh" motion, stepping up behind Rayek. Rayek's stance, already wary, stiffens a trifle, and his entire upper body twists as he eyes the redhaired maiden. ** What do you want? ** Myriel locksends ** Yeeesh... Cute... but paranoid! ** to Ynderra. Leetah emerges from behind the tree, smiling radiantly, "And what are you two doing to poor Rayek?" she asks merrily. She approaches, smiling to Rayek and the others. Ynderra giggles to Myriel, and then jumps, whirling, at the sound of Leetah's voice. Rayek's gaze snaps around to Leetah as well, and for an instant, it is difficult to tell whether he is relieved or even more wary. Myriel giggles, her cheeks turning bright red. Ynderra protests, "We were just going to tell him goodbye...! Leetah smiles gently all around. She nods to Ynderra. "Mmmhmmm." Rayek smirks, narrowly. "They have done that." Leetah ahs, smiling to the two in question. Myriel places her hands gently on Rayek's shoulders. Rayek's dark head snaps back towards Myriel. ** ? ** The sending is direct, wordless, and faintly irritated that he is not getting an explanation of intent here. Ynderra cajoles Leetah, "Maybe you can tell him we won't bite?" She blinkblinks hopefully up at the older healer. Myriel leans forward and whispers something to Rayek. Leetah teases Ynderra, "Perhaps you would." She smiles jokingly. Myriel whispers into Rayek's ear, quietly... "I won't hurt you... promise..." Leetah's response _now_ visibly startled Rayek, and he stares at her. Rayek locksends ** Are you putting them up to this? ** to Leetah. Myriel gives Leetah a look. Leetah locksends ** No, me old friend. Why would I do that? ** to Rayek. Leetah locksends ** What are they doing? They asked me what gift you might like. ** to Rayek. Leetah chuckles softly, amused. Leetah looks around in the silence, "Should I leave?" Rayek flicks a look around to Myriel once more, startled anew. Or, perhaps, disbelieving what he hears. Myriel begins to rub Rayek's shoulders, gently. Rayek locksends ** She... claims... she won't hurt me. ** to Leetah. Leetah laughs softly. Leetah locksends ** I believe she won't. ** to Rayek. Leetah sends teasingly. Leetah locksends ** You used to like backrubs. ** to Rayek. Talyrath climbs up to the top of the hill from the river bank just to the west. Talyrath has arrived. Talyrath's eyes go wide and he raises his hands. Talyrath Talyrath looks strangely ambiguous. He's got really fine long black hair with light brown highlights, currently pulled back with a leather thong.{ His face is almost babyish, having lost none of its childlike look as he has grown to maturity. His eyes are pale blue and perpetually startled, giving him an air of innocence that is totally belied by the tenseness evident in his face and posture. Talyrath slowly backs away. "I didn't mean to interrupt anything... " Leetah gazes at the new arrival hesitantly, pausing to send. Talyrath's eyes dart wildly from person to person. Rayek immediately stiffens the moment a stranger approaches. His hands, still on the spear he had been sharpening, tighten on the weapon's shaft, and he flashes his amber gaze from the maiden behind him -- the redheaded one -- to the stranger. Leetah says "Hello, stranger. Welcome to Lostholt." Myriel smiles at the stranger, but keeps her hands on Rayek. Talyrath 's eyes widen at the mention of a holt. "Uhh, thanks." Talyrath glances to Rayek. "I am unarmed." Ynderra, utterly distracted, ohs! And in the interval of time in which Leetah speaks up, she blinks several times, before relievedly letting her older tribesmate handle this. Her blue gaze flicks from Rayek and her sister to the newcomer, and back again. Talyrath says "I hadn't realized I'd wandered into anyone's territory."" Rayek's eyes are already narrowed, as he studies the tall arrival. Then he glances at Leetah, noting _her_ reactions, and only then does he give a curt, short nod. His stance does not relax, however, and he remains alertly poised on the log currently serving him as a chair. Myriel locksends ** Are you always this jumpy? ** to Rayek. Leetah moves a little closer to Rayek. Leetah locksends ** Glider? ** to Rayek. Talyrath glances around. "If my presence is so offensive, I should probably leave." Rayek locksends ** I expect so. I do not remember him from Blue Mountain, nor did he come to the Palace lately, but he looks like them. ** to Leetah. Ynderra offers brightly, "You just startled us. It's alright." Rayek locksends ** Now is not the time for this, maiden. ** to Myriel. Myriel locksends ** For what? ** to Rayek. Talyrath says "Are you sure? I'm honestly not here to cause trouble." Leetah sends this clarification, too. Talyrath eyes Rayek uncomfortably. Rayek announces brusquely, "I am... merely visiting. Your presence is not for me to dictate." Leetah asks in a carefully neutral voice, "And how did you find us, stranger?" Rayek locksends to Myriel, Rayek, with most of his attention diverted to the newcomer, mentally indicates the presence of your hands on his shoulders. Leetah locksends ** <> ** to Rayek. Talyrath says "Totally by chance... I don't know my way around Outside." Ynderra quirks her dark curly head, looking the stranger up and down. Myriel takes her hands off of Rayek's shoulders... Then runs them slowly down his back. Rayek senses in a locksend, Myriel seems almost smug, and definately giggly. ** Is that better? ** Leetah says softly, eyes down, "Send that, please." Talyrath sighs. Talyrath sends openly ** I came here totally by chance, I assure you. ** Talyrath's eyes cloud over. Leetah nods, expression gentle and slightly sad. "Very well. Are you hungry?" Talyrath says "Only a little. It's not a problem." Ynderra glances at her sister, slightly worriedly, as Myriel seems quite intent on Rayek's cloaked back. Then the black-haired maiden considers the stranger, once more. Ynderra locksends ** Um, should we call Cutter? ** to Leetah. Leetah locksends ** I already have. He will be here when he may. With Rayek here, I am not afraid. ** to Ynderra. Leetah says "May we help you find your way? Where is it you seek?" Talyrath says "I suppose it would be best for me to return to RavenHolt. It was silly of me to wander off." Ynderra senses in a locksend, Myriel catches your glance. *Hmm??* Leetah says "You wandered here from Ravenholt?" Leetah smiles gently, "You must have understated your hunger." Talyrath shrugs. "It's not as far by air. I've caused enough trouble, I don't want to impose." Talyrath's shoulders slump. Ynderra blinks a few times, and steps up closer. ** It's okay, honest. ** Leetah watches the shoulders and Talyrath, very very closely. Rayek locksends to Myriel, Rayek reiterates sternly, ** Now is _not_ the time for this. ** Ynderra locksends ** He, um, doesn't look like he's paying attention. Rayek that is. ** to Myriel. Talyrath glances to Ynderra. ** I've found that my presence usually only causes strife and pain to those I've made friends with. ** Leetah tilts her head and watches him, "Why do you say that?" Talyrath shrugs. "It's fairly obvious I'm a glider. I've come to learn over the past weeks what a bad reputation we seem to have." Leetah arches her brows. With a faint smile, she nods. "We have had ... bad experiences." Rayek casts an aggravated glance over his shoulder at Myriel. Ynderra awwws. "There've been bunches of Gliders at Sorrow's End, that was alright..." Myriel takes her hands off of Rayek slowly. Leetah asks softly, "Could you two see to our guest? I have something I wish to discuss with Rayek." Talyrath nods. "So I've heard. It's usually easier to avoid conflict than to stay and prolong it. " Talyrath says "I've grown tired of repeatedly trying to prove that I'm not here to steal babies or somesuch." Leetah tilts her head to Rayek, asking with her eyes alone if he will join her elsewhere. Ynderra bobs her head to Leetah, and tilts her head up at the tall visitor. "Well, um. If you want to go, that's okay, but if you want to stay, that's okay too." She giggles, wrinkling her nose. "No babies for you to steal here anyway." Leetah locksends ** <> Yet, kitling. ** to Ynderra. Rayek rises, then, and gives a single nod to Leetah. Leetah heads towards Clearing Ynderra locksends ** Well, I don't have to tell HIM that... ** to Leetah. Rayek strides soundlessly off. You head towards the Lost Holt Clearing. Lost Holt Clearing The land of the Abode surrounds you. Here is where the elves of Lost Holt Gather for tribe councils, howls and receiving visitors from other tribes. This large clearing is fringed by slender saplings that have sprung up after the fire so many turns ago. The ground is packed in tightly and covered with twigs and some fallen branches. In the center there lies a stone ring. It lies unlit now and filled with rocks and leaves as the silky summertime heat brings warmth to the holt. There are many roots to sit on as well as one particularly large branch that may serve to seat more than a few elves. Off to the north you see the massive Father Tree, home to many of the elves of Lost Holt. All is quiet in the heat of the summers day, as elves and wolves both keep to the cool shadows to sleep. Contents: Leetah Denning Tree Obvious exits: Path Hill Approach to the Father Tree Myriel locksends ** Bye, handsome... *cute pout* ** to Rayek. Leetah smiles gently, expression a bit sad and reflective. Rayek steps after you, his frown not entirely vanished. Leetah takes a seat on a large root. Leetah gazes up at you. "Ember seems to wish to leave with you." Rayek pulls in a breath, and nods gravely. "She did say that to me." Leetah says "Cutter disapproves." Leetah smiles, "But I am sure you could guess that." Rayek's mouth quirks, as he leans on his spear. "I did not need to guess." Leetah looks levelly to you, eyes open and unveiled. "I -need- to know... Should I try to move him to let her go?" Rayek sighs, and glances down, perhaps rallying his reply. It is a measure of how his time alone in the Palace -- and alone with Ekuar and Ember in the wild -- has changed him that he seems to give consideration to the question before answering at last, "It would... please me... if she came to the Palace." Leetah rises and places her hand gently on yours. "That was all I needed to hear." Leetah walks toward the Father Tree. [Meanwhile, back with the twins and the visiting Glider....] Myriel sighs as Rayek heads off. Leetah locksends ** True. If he makes you afraid at all, send for Cutter and Skywise. They are ready to help you. ** You locksend ** Myriel'n I will handle him. ** to Leetah. You sense in a locksend, Myriel sighs. "That got real far." You locksend ** Not your fault this one showed up... we better talk to him, though, 'kay? ** to Myriel. Talyrath grins wryly. "The mistrust is still evident." Myriel locksends ** I'll let you talk. ** Myriel sits down where Rayek was sitting. Ynderra fixes her wide blue gaze up on the stranger, and giggles. "Oh, Timmorn's Blood, we've met good Gliders before, so if you're a good Glider, you don't have anything to worry about. _Do_ you want to stay? Ravenholt's days and days away... though, right, you did say you flew!" She chatters at a breakneck pace, merrily. Talyrath smiles slightly. "I hope I'm a good Glider, at least by some definition. I think there are Gliders that would disagree with that though." You locksend ** Okay... don't run off, though, at least not far! don't want to be left alone with the tall one here if he turns mean... ** to Myriel. Ynderra shrugs her slender shoulders. "I know your folk argue a lot. But what elves don't argue?" Diplomatically, she refrains from mentioning Winnowill; if the thought of the Glider Lord even crosses her mind, there's no sign of it on her affable face. Talyrath nods slightly. Talyrath shrugs. "I probably should get back to RavenHolt. I had no intention of coming this far. I honestly had no idea I was so far away." Myriel locksends ** I'll sit and watch.... Not goin' anywhere. ** Talyrath says "There are people there that will worry about me. I owe them more than to leave like that."" Ynderra bobs her head cheerfully. "As you wish... safe journey!" Talyrath nods. "I'm glad to meet you. May I return some time?" Myriel watches quietly from the log. Ynderra smiles. "I'll tell the tribe to watch for you." Talyrath grins wryly. "Hopefully without arrows knocked. Farewell." Ynderra grins, and waves, stepping back. Talyrath rises into the sky with a final wave. Talyrath flies up. Talyrath has left. Myriel sighs quietly. Ynderra watches the Glider go, then looks back at her sister, and bites her lip. Myriel sends openly ** That didn't work too well, did it? ** Ynderra settles down beside you, and half-smiles. Knowing you don't mean the Glider, she says gently, "Well, um, he _is_ awfully prickly..." Myriel turns to look at you. "But he's so _gorgeous_!" Myriel sighs, somewhere between a depressed sigh and a happy sigh. Myriel says "Should I bother trying again?" Ynderra clasps your shoulder. "Do you want to? I mean... I-I know you'd like to have a lovemate, but is it Rayek you want?" Myriel says "As a lovemate?" Myriel says "No." Myriel turns to look at you. "For a good propper roll in the furs?" Myriel nods firmly. "Yes." Ynderra grins a bit. "Well, um, he's going back to the Palace, right? Maybe it's just not him you should get a tumble with..? I don't know." She shrugs, watching you. Myriel says "Hey, _you_ want to tumble with him, too, don't you?" Ynderra giggles softly. "Well, I wouldn't say no if he were interested! He kind of scares me, though..." Myriel says "He's not _that_ bad, sis." Myriel mrrrs quietly. "He'd be so nice." Ynderra giggles wistfully. "Do we want Ember getting mad at us, though? I mean, she's been eying him a lot..." Myriel giggles. "She can share..." Myriel says "At least once." Ynderra pokles you impishly. "_She's_ had him for a few turns of the seasons now, granted..." Myriel giggles, getting pok'd. "I just want him once." You say "So what do you want to DO about it...?" Myriel says "I'm not sure." Myriel grins a little. "I'll take ideas." Ynderra giggles again. "Um, well. He didn't seem to like rubbing your back." Ynderra er, you rubbing HIS back. Myriel rolls her eyes. "I figured that much out on my own." Myriel says "I wonder if straight-forward would work?" Ynderra considers. "What if he says no?" Myriel says "If he says no... Ummm... I guess he says no..." Myriel says "Dreamberries?" Ynderra ooohs, and giggles. "And how do you expect to get him to eat 'em? If anything I bet he'd say no as fast to that as to joining..." Myriel says "Umm....." Myriel pulls her hair up, then turns to the side. "Think I could pass for Ember?" Ynderra bursts into giggles. "Only if Rayek were drunk, silly, and we haven't figured out HOW to get him drunk yet..." Myriel giggles. Myriel lets her hair drop. "Ummm... put dreamberries in his food?" Myriel says "Maybe we should just crawl into his furs one night. Naked." Ynderra quivers with laughter. "Don't _have_ time. He's leaving, remember?" Leetah walks up the hill from the clearing to the east. Myriel giggles more. "He's not leaving _tonight_!" You say "But he _said_ sunset. I think. With Ekuar...." Myriel grins at leetah, pulling her hair up briefly before almost falling over laughing. Leetah listens, smiling a little. Ynderra, leaning conspiratorially close to her sister, blinkblinks, then looks up. Leetah nods pleasantly. "Our guest left?" Ynderra bobs her head. "Uh-huh... wanted to go back to Ravenholt." Leetah shakes her head. "I hope he does not tire himself too greatly." You say "I don't know how long Gliders can fly... maybe Windkin does? Anyway..." Ynderra fidgets, glancing from Leetah to her sister. [Leetah slips out again here.] Myriel goes back to giggling. Myriel says "Well, sis?" Myriel ponders, winking. *Have any rope?* Ynderra says sagely, "Rayek'd blast us both if we tried to tie him up!" Myriel giggles. Myriel says "Um... Maybe asking nicely is the best way? :)" Myriel walks up to you, all prim and propper. She clears her throat. "Rayek, my sister and I would like to wish you goodbye by having you join us for an evening of nice, rough joinings." Myriel holds a serious gaze as long as she possibly can. Ynderra laughs! Myriel collapses into fits of giggling. You say "I will grow you a whole FIELD of dreamberries if you do THAT...! Hehehehehe...." Myriel laughs. "Tempting indeed!" Myriel giggles. "Well... what other ideas have you?" Myriel goes "bah", and trots away, grinning. Myriel heads towards Clearing [Back in the clearing where Leetah has left Rayek....] Myriel arrives from the Hill. Myriel locksends ** Rayek? ** Ynderra arrives from the Hill. Rayek, fretfully pacing as he waits for Ekuar, looks up. Myriel sends openly ** Would now be a better time? ** Ynderra peers around her sister, and puts on her best open smile. Rayek, still clutching his spear, plants its end into the earth and stares at the pair of maidens. ** I leave for the Palace as soon as Ekuar joins me, ** he sends, flatly. ** I do not have time for joining-games. ** Ynderra senses in a locksend, Myriel yipes! *He catches on quickly!* Myriel looks, seriously, at Rayek. "I'm not playing games, dark-haired one." Myriel tilts her head. "And I think you've got, at least, a little time before Ekuar will be ready, yes?" Rayek stares at Myriel bemusedly. Then sends bluntly, ** Thank you, but no. ** Myriel looks over at Ynderra. Myriel locksends ** Any ideas? ** to Ynderra. Myriel tilts her head. "Nothing I could do to change your mind?" Ynderra wrinkles her nose, considering. Ynderra locksends ** He looks pretty insistent. ** to Myriel. Rayek's gaze does not waver. ** It would not be appropriate. ** Myriel sends openly ** Might I ask why? ** Talyrath locksends ** Hello? ** to Ynderra. Rayek crosses his arms. ** The offer is rather ill-timed, ** he answers, shortly. Ynderra locksends ** Eh? Oh... you? ** to Talyrath. Talyrath locksends ** (*nod*) I'm near your border. May I enter? ** to Ynderra. Ynderra locksends ** I thought you were going back? ** to Talyrath. Myriel sends openly ** Why, though? Surely it wouldn't hurt to take a few minutes and have some time for yourself, would it? ** Myriel tilts her head the other direction. *You should let yourself have some fun sometimes. You always seem so serious. A bit of fun never hurt anyone, dear." Talyrath locksends ** I ran into Lighteyes, a friend of mine. Ravenholt is empty at the moment, it seems everyone has business of their own. ** Talyrath locksends ** She's been teaching me the local layout so I hopefully won't get lost again. ** Talyrath locksends ** May I enter? ** Ynderra locksends ** Eep... I haven't had a chance to find the others yet... ** to Talyrath. Rayek, unmoved, retorts, ** I've been here all the winter; only now, when I am going, do you think to ask me this? ** Ynderra blinkblinks off into the air for a moment, distracted. Myriel looks down, blushing just a tad. Myriel sends openly ** It has been many seasons since I have chosen to join with anyone... I realize my needs come at a bad time. ** Myriel looks to Rayek, quietly. *But it would be something I would enjoy ... very much. And would not take much of your time.* Ynderra senses in a locksend, Myriel sends to you, but tries to keep focussed on Rayek. *What's wrong?* Myriel whispers quietly. "And I think you would like, as well." Ynderra locksends ** I heard that Glider send... he didn't go back... he's not sending now... ** to Myriel. Myriel locksends ** So where is he? ** to Ynderra. Ynderra locksends ** Outside the Holt, wanted to enter. ** to Myriel. Myriel locksends ** Well, we did say he could come back, yes? ** to Ynderra. Ynderra locksends ** Aye... ** to Myriel. Rayek turns away, sending, ** Thank you, again, but no. ** Myriel sighs quietly. Myriel sends openly ** Would you like a backrub before you go? ** Rayek shakes his head gravely to Myriel. ** Thank you, ** he repeats a third time, ** but no. ** Ynderra steps cautiously around her sister, and nibbles her lip a moment before offering, "Um. Well, would you let us give you going-away gifts anyway?" Myriel nods quietly. Myriel looks quietly to Ynderra. Myriel locksends ** But what do _I_ give him? ** to Ynderra. Myriel locksends ** For most, a joining is a wonderful gift! *sigh* ** to Ynderra. Rayek eyes the two maidens to make sure his wishes are understood, then folds his lean frame down to sit against a tree, while he waits for the anicent rockshaper. At Ynderra's request, his expression flickers, very slightly. And his stiff carriage relents, just a trifle. ** You are kind. But I need nothing. Ekuar is frailer than I. ** Ynderra glances at her sister, concernedly, then ventures to Rayek, "Leetah said maybe a new staff... I could go look for wood, really quick..." Again, she looks at Myriel. Myriel locksends ** What do I do now? ** to Ynderra. Ynderra locksends ** Meep... I dunno... ** to Myriel. Myriel looks to Ynd. *I'll go with you.* Ynderra nodnods to her sister, smiles tremulously to Rayek, then takes Myriel's hand and moves to scamper off. [End log.]