Log Date: 12/2/96 Log Cast: Rayek, Ktai, WolfFlame, Ember, Neela Log Intro: There has been a change in Rayek as of late, in the Palace -- an awareness of the danger he is bringing by leaving himself vulnerable to Winnowill's continued harryings, and the danger posed to Ktai, too, not only from Winnowill but also from her Chosen. The airwalker has had an epiphany: that not only does he not possess the luxury to remain wallowing in self-pity, but that he does not possess the strength and power to protect the Palace and everyone in it from Winnowill and her minions by himself. With this in mind, he has sought to make his peace with Tilia as the first step in organizing the elves in the Palace into a cohesive group that can guard each other and the sacred halls of the High Ones' first Home. Much to his astonishment and pleasure, he has managed to get through to Tilia that he genuinely wishes to be at peace with her, and that he wishes to protect the Palace and those within it. Now, though, it is a few days later, and Rayek has noticed an unusual behavior on the part of Ktai: that she's been avoiding him, and here and now, when his greatest desire is to unify the elves in the Palace. Anxious to include her, he goes looking for the erstwhile Glider..... ---------- You make your way down the staircase. Entry Hall(#8823RAF) High-ceilinged, airy, this chamber widens out from the doorway that serves as its entrance from outside to an expansive room, filled with little more than strangely ornate walls and the occasional column, rising up to the ceiling far overhead. Closer inspection of the walls reveals patterns shaped into their surfaces, sometimes of wings, or flowers, or the lithe forms of elves -- and sometimes of images that defy description. The air is full of a subliminal shimmer that plays at the edge of elfin senses, a tingle that feels welcoming even in its eldritch oddness. Among the fanciful shapings in this wide chamber can be viewed a 'black spiral' of rock resting on a low column. A long winding stairway twines its way up out of this chamber and into the upper heights of this place; you might be able to find other ways out of here, but the only other exit in immediate sight is the archway and doors that lead outside. Contents: Ktai Bright Green Tent(#9206JOes) Obvious exits: Corridor Winding Stairway Doorway Rayek floats down the stairs, and speeds up a bit, as he spies Ktai out in the chamber. He send-calls her name, to catch her attention. Ktai spins, hit from two sends, and blinks at Rayek. Rayek lands nearby, and moves towards you. His stride has changed in the last few days, gaining an urgency and confidence he hasn't displayed in some time; now, though, as he draws near, his eyes hold a straightforward worry. "Ktai? Is everything alright?" Ktai seems to draw herself together for a moment, as if pondering exactly what to tell you. ** I sought Ekuar's counsel... no wonder you love him so. ** Rayek blinks a single time, then his expression softens a bit. ** I do that, ** he acknowledges. ** But he won't tell me what's troubling you, either; he said I should come and speak with you. Ktai... ** He takes another step nearer, gaze searching. ** Why have you been avoiding me? ** Ktai looks to you, her eyes seeming half-aware of what she sees before them. ** I... ** A send snaps her, but she only flickers towards it. Again, she looks to you. ** I've been thinking many things, Rayek. ** Rayek marks the flicker of your gaze, and his black eyebrows crook. ** Good, ** he answers, ** I'd been hoping to speak with you, myself. ** He keeps that searching look on you, though. Ktai blushes lightly under her tan. ** How can I help you, Rayek? ** ** You can start, ** he answers plainly, but gently, ** by telling me what's wrong? ** Ktai sends quietly. ** Have you ever loved someone so deeply that it became nearly impossible to tell them or show them for fear that you might hurt them? ** Ktai watches you quietly, her eyes now soft. She glances outside again, almost in annoyance, then looks back to you. Rayek quirks an eyebrow again at your question, and replies, ** Are you trying to tell me that you're in love with another? ** Ktai smiles softly. ** No, Rayek. I'm trying to tell you that I'm in love with you. Totally and completely. ** That does make him smile, one corner of his mouth curving upward. ** So you have told me, ** he answers, tone still gentle. ** Is this what's wrong? Have I turned into some kind of troll? ** Ktai shakes her head. ** No... I ... was afraid that I would force you into something that you did not want... and be no better than Winnowill. Alorn wouldn't mind comparing me to Her about now. ** Oops. Rayek lifts a brown hand to Ktai's chin, a gesture that he makes despite her being taller than he, and inquires gently, ** Have you forced me into anything with your prior declarations of your feelings? ** Ktai looks off slightly. ** I hope not... ** Rayek keeps his hand where it is, and smiles a bit more. ** You have not, save that which was for my own good, for all my protests at the time. You've kept me resting, and not killing myself with overwork. ** Eren soulsends ** ** Ktai closes her eyes, and sends very softly. ** I have missed being in your arms. ** The airwalker's eyes go a trifle more tender, and he slips the arms in question about you, sending privately. You locksend to Ktai, Rayek's thoughts glimmer golden in reply, as he clasps the blue to his mind with the same deft gentleness that he clasps your form. Without putting the thought into words, as if doing so might make it harder to relay, he sends affection to you, and the sense that you are indeed very precious to him. WolfFlame steps in from outside. WolfFlame moves away from the huge stone structure nearby. WolfFlame has arrived. WolfFlame wanders in stretching slightly and looks about, yawning behind a hand she sends a bit groggily, ** Heyla ** Eren soulsends ** ** Rayek, as WolfFlame enters, can be seen to be clasping Ktai lightly, his dark face turned up to her; as the rockshaper sends, though, he looks over, and nods evenly without releasing the taller elf. ** Maiden, ** he replies, politely. Ktai opens her eyes and looks over, resting her head to Rayek's and smiling. WolfFlame ohs softly, ** Sorry, I did not mean to interupt ** Rayek makes a dismissive gesture with one hand, while keeping the other arm near Ktai. ** Do not worry yourself; it's actually good that we meet. I need to speak with everyone in the Palace. ** WolfFlame looks curiously, ** What's going on? ** WolfFlame smiles over to Ktai Ktai's cheeks blush slightly Rayek pulls enough away from Ktai that he can turn a goodly portion of his attention to WolfFlame, but keeps one hand in the taller maiden's grasp. ** I have been bringing danger to this place, ** he sends earnestly, ** and I must speak with everyone in it, to see what we can do about it. ** WolfFlame nods slowly, ** You know I will do whatever I can to help...what sort of danger? ** Ktai offers quietly. ** I have spoken with Tilia about my learning things. I don't know what she will teach, but I shall learn it. ** Rayek glances at Ktai, to nod once, and then tells WolfFlame, ** Winnowill keeps harrying me; she has attempted to draw my spirit to her. She has attempted to seduce Ktai back to the Mountain; her Chosen, Sar, has bodily attacked Ktai, and then had me poisoned, with that same intent. We cannot allow this to continue, lest more elves in the Palace suffer harm. ** WolfFlame nods, ** I was afraid it was Winnowill, should have suspected after what Ktai told me...You know Delenbae and I both will do whatever is necessary to prevent more danger or harm to come to the Palace...Del certainly will be more help then I but I can still do what I can ** Ktai sends softly. ** And she tries so hard to fail. She'll eventually grow tired of failing. ** WolfFlame sends openly ** We can hope anyway...somehow I suspect she'll keep trying til she gets what she wants ** WolfFlame sighs softly and shakes her head Ktai send-mutters. ** Even as she tries now. ** Rayek glances once more at Ktai, and frowns. ** .....? Are you sent to? ** Ktai nods. ** But not Winnowill. ** Rayek lifts his head a little, eyes closing a bit, as he seems to test something about the air. Then his eyes open anew. ** There's another Glider here? ** It's not quite a question. Ktai nods silently. Ktai sends openly ** She says she is here offering peace... ** WolfFlame frowns, ** So Alorn is here...that's all we need, that one twists words almost as well as her LOrd ** Ktai looks to Rayek, eyes mixed. ** I almost believe her. ** Rayek flicks an amber look back to WolfFlame. ** Alorn was here before, with Winnowill; what do you know of her, that has not occurred here? ** Ktai sends openly ** That Neela wouldn't trust her to do anything but stab one in the back, and even then you can't rely on her to do that.... according to him. ** WolfFlame sends openly ** She had many dealings with my holt...we lived near the Mountain for a time. Once when a child was being taken care of in our holt, she stole it from me, swearing that she would not ** WolfFlame sends openly ** There have been so many things with that one that are blurry now, but I know that I would not trust her with anything ** Ktai sighs softly. ** And I unwittingly turned my daughter over to her. ** Rayek, looking between you both now, frowns grimly. ** Is she liable to take such steps as Sar did -- to harm elves here? ** Ktai sighs faintly. ** She wants to see me, Rayek. ** WolfFlame nods, ** She'll do anything to gain standing in Winnowill's eyes ** Rayek studies Ktai, gravely. ** Do you wish to see her? ** Ktai looks back to Rayek. ** Not alone. ** WolfFlame hmfs, ** Just watch her eyes...** Ktai blinks, then nods, remembering. Rayek's eyebrows go up, and he looks back to WolfFlame. ** She has power? ** The question is a pointed one. Ktai's send is faint. ** She can do what you do... ** WolfFlame nods, ** Poor Stormfire's brain was scrambled for a while after he looked into her eyes...** Rayek scowls, then. ** You must not meet her alone, then, at all. Do you wish to even see her, with others, Ktai? ** Ktai sighs. ** She claims to be here with a peace offering... I find it hard to believe, given the last that I saw her... ** Ember locksends ** <> Which of the Snake's pets is here now? ** Rayek looks up, then, sending. You locksend to Ember, Rayek replies, his sending sharp though not at you, ** Alorn. Ktai and WolfFlame say that she has power. Like mine. ** Ktai looks to Rayek, eyes worried. You sense in a locksend, Ember's eyebrows go up, mentally. ** You mean like your stare? The one that freezes people? ** Rayek murmurs, aloud, "Ember sends. One moment." You locksend ** Yes.... though WolfFlame speaks of her using it to scramble elves' minds. I am in the Entry Hall, with Ktai and WolfFlame. Will you join us? ** to Ember. You sense in a locksend, Ember's mind stretches back, for stories, and then she replies, ** Blindfolding you worked. I'll be there in a moment. ** Ktai nods, waiting quietly, leaning her head against Rayek's. Ktai sends openly ** Neela will help us... he knows her mind. ** Ember comes down the stairs from above. Ember has arrived. Ember comes down the stairs, spear in hand. Neela comes down the stairs from above. Neela has arrived. Neela flies down the stairwell, literally. Rayek, as Ember comes into view, and Neela behind her, straightens. He is clasping Ktai's hand in one of his, and both of them stand near WolfFlame. Rayek's gaze is sharp, and intent. Ktai ducks her head at something, actually taking a chance to possibly whisper something to Rayek. You sense Ktai kisses your ear as she whispers, "The many will win... my love." Rayek sends openly ** Ember. Neela. We -- I -- need your counsel. Please. ** Ktai senses "Rayek's hand tightens a little on yours, and he sends a brush of acknowledgement and hope." WolfFlame looks to the others as they arrive Neela nods, ** I will do whatever I can, Rayek. ** Ktai looks back up to the small gathering, nodding quietly. Rayek nods once, and sends without preamble, ** There is another Glider here: Alorn. Ktai tells me that she is here making offers of peace. Will you tell me what you know of her, Neela? ** Ember leans on her spear, and listens. Neela sends openly ** Alorn is lying, dangerous and vile creature who is limited only by her own foolish ambitions and the strings that Winnowill keeps her own. ** Ktai nods. That's concise. Ember can't help a quick grin. WolfFlame nods her agreement For those looking closely enough at the airwalker, something appears to have changed in him; he stands straighter than he has in moons. His sending is more direct, and more clear, and there is an intent light to his gaze that speaks of something within him having suddenly become... right. As Neela sends, that light focuses on the Glider, and then swings round to include you all. Neela sends openly ** She cares only for her own self, even to Winnowill she has few loyalties, though the fact that Winnowill has recently taken her to be her mate in order to better control her, under the guise of affection, might have changed that a little, though I doubt it seriously. ** Ember shudders. "Gliders," she mutters; it's half a send, half speech. Ktai nods agreement with Ember. Neela smirks at Ember, ** We are not all so, Ember. ** Ember glances to Neela. "I told you once you would have to prove yourself to me." Her gaze goes back to Rayek; obviously, she considers the conversation closed. Rayek sends, consideringly, ** We... _I_... cannot bar her from entering the Palace. It should be closed to no elves, not even those of Blue Mountain. But I do not want anyone causing harm in or around this place, either. ** His shoulders square themselves. ** Winnowill continues to harry me, and her Chosen harry Ktai. This cannot be allowed to continue, and I cannot protect us both alone. ** Neela nods, ** I will do my best to keep the actions of Alorn to a minimum by Winnowill's own words. ** Ktai interceeds softly. ** But you aren't alone. ** WolfFlame sends openly ** Alorn won't try anything with so many here ** WolfFlame sends openly ** Not physically anyway ** Neela looks at WolfFlame, ** Then you do not know her. Alorn will do whatever she thinks is in her best interest. ** Rayek actually smiles briefly, clasping Ktai's hand a little more tightly before looking around to the others. ** Three healers remain in the Palace, as well. ** Ember chuckles. "I don't suppose she'll leave the Palace, in her own best interests." Ktai ponders. ** She might. ** WolfFlame sends openly ** But she's not so brave with us all here against her ** Neela sends openly ** Do you know that she is here alone? ** Ktai nods. ** I know. ** Neela nods. Ktai looks to Rayek. ** Ekuar... she might go after him. I'll keep watch. ** Rayek inclines his head, once, flashing Ktai a look of sharp, but earnest, gratitude. ** Thank you. ** Ktai locksends ** There is much I still wish to tell you... ** You locksend ** When we have peace enough... I wish to listen. ** to Ktai. Ktai nods, then hugs Rayek before stepping off to the corridor. Ktai has left. Rayek, after watching Ktai leave, turns back to you all. Ember watches after Ktai for a moment, then studies Rayek. A small smile, soft, crosses her features, then flits away. WolfFlame leans back against a pillar quietly listening Neela looks to Rayek, ** Is there anything particular that you would ask of me? ** If he notices Ember's brief tender glance, Rayek doesn't show a sign of it, possessed as he is by this new -- or perhaps more properly, this returned _old_ intensity. ** What I need, ** he answers Neela, ** is to insure that elves may bide in these halls without fear that they will be bodily taken, without fear that their sleep will be disturbed by sent dreams. I can shield myself. To some extent, others. But I cannot protect everyone. I need, from everyone who plans to stay here, what skills can be offered to protect and guard. ** Neela looks to Rayek, ** Is there a preserver or two here? ** Rayek inclines his head. ** Petalwing. It has remained with me for... years, now. ** Ember spreads the fingers of one hand slightly. ** You know I've no magics, but my spear is yours... ** You sense in a locksend, Ember's send turns private, a little bemused: ** ... Chieftain. ** Neela nods, ** Then find a room for me, and I will have the preserver wrap me, after I have projected from my body. That way I will be able to guard the Palace more effectively. And with the preserver wrap, I will not need to worry for the deterioration of my body due to neglect. ** Rayek suddenly stares at Ember, eyes widening; it's debatable whether he heard a word of Neela's last. Ember lifts an eyebrow, innocent, and then another smile plays across her face. The other eyebrow goes up. It's a challenge, almost: Well? Neela regards the slight silent exchange between the two, for once being respectfully silent with patience. The slight tinge of red along Rayek's dark cheekbones suggest that, in order for that color to be seen at all, he must be blushing furiously. "Ember," he coughs out, "I am not..." Ember's send is quite firm. ** .Were. not. I never thought to call you by that name before now. Palace's Master, Palace's chief. If you are truly one, then you are also the other. ** Then, firmly, she adds, ** Chieftain. ** Neela quietly listens to the exchange. Neela locksends ** She is correct... you already show the best qualities of a real leader.. you care for those that are within these walls. ** Rayek's wide-eyed gaze snaps to Neela; then, he scowls, and tells both Ember and Neela sternly, ** Tilia is master of this place. _Not_ I! ** Ember grins. ** All right, ** she agrees. ** Tilia is Master....Chieftain. ** Neela sends openly ** Can there not be more than one chieftan? Is it not an unheard thing to outsiders? ** Rayek turns away, his features growing progressively redder. ** This is getting off the subject, ** he announces brusquely. Ember grins, and lets it lie. ** My spear, ** she repeats, ** is yours. ** WolfFlame nods in agreement with Ember Ember waits a certain amount of time, then tilts her head. "Rayek? Have you any thoughts on .how. to stop them? Blindfolding one with your powers works, but not if we can't reach her head..." Youngblood ducks out of his tent and glances around him. He nods to Ember and Rayek. Rayek sighs, steadying himself. As Youngblood emerges from his tent, he nods once to the Wolfrider, and tells Ember gravely, "I _don't_ know, Ember, and that's why I wanted to speak to everyone in the Palace." Youngblood blinks at the two of them and evesdrops shamelessly. Ember leans on her spear, thinking. "Bait," she finally says. "You need bait." Rayek straightens, brow furrowing curiously. "Winnowill wants me and Ktai --" he begins. Youngblood raises an eyebrow. Ember nods, pursing her lips. "And knows neither of you will go willingly. You need someone--" The word she's looking for is susceptible, but a wolfrider wouldn't know it. "Someone that Winnowill would .believe. could be used. Someone who was strong enough to keep their own mind free, while making Alorn and the others believe they were under her control." Ember says "So that we can get .close. enough to Alorn to..." neutralize. "stop her." Rayek paces a bit, restlessly, his black tail of hair drifting slightly from side to side with his movement. He spies Youngblood listening, but apparently does not mind, as he answers, "I _need_ them stopped so that they do not try again, Ember." His forehead crinkles in another scowl. "I have told Winnowill repeatedly that I will not go to her -- and yet she keeps trying. Glider after Glider has come to the Palace, with both words of peace and words of force, to try to get Ktai to return to the Mountain, for all that she says she does not want to go." Ember, patiently, says, "You catch a ravvit by putting something it wants inside a trap. Winnowill wants you, but we can't afford to use you as bait. They would never believe that .I. fell for their lies. Make Ktai the bait. It's too bad Gliders don't have soulnames." Rayek blinks a time or two, as if unsure at something Ember must have just said. Then he fixes the huntress with a stern and worried stare. "Winnowill wants Ktai, too." "That's why Alorn will believe it. Won't think it's a trap, if she can reach Ktai. I'm .sure. she doesn't think well enough of Ktai to believe Ktai might be able to .resist. her. We only need a little time, long enough to wrapstuff Alorn. But we can't do /that/ until we can /reach/ her." Ember thumps her spear butt on the ground. "Ktai's the only one who looks vulnerable enough to use as bait." Except Ekuar, and Ember won't suggest .that.. Ember draws a little circle, invisible, on the Palace floor. "Alorn needs to be allowed in here. Treated well. Distantly, but well. Ktai shouldn't be left alone with her for a while, but don't make it look like it's on purpose. Alorn hasn't got the senses of a Wolfrider--if Ktai is finally alone, Alorn won't know we're nearby when she tries to hypnotize Ktai. While she's concentrating--" Another sharp thump. "Petalwing." Rayek watches the path of Ember's spear, and finally murmurs grimly, "Ktai... must be asked. I cannot agree to this for her." Ember snorts. "Well, obviously. No good chief puts his tribe in danger without them agreeing." Rayek starts blushing again, and flicks a embarrassed glance down at some random spot on the crystalline floor. "No _elf_ should," he corrects, then goes on gruffly, "And if we wrapstuff Alorn? What then?" "Then," Ember says, entirely too cheerfully, "we dump her at the Mountain's foot, and run like mad back to the Palace." Ember blinks, and grins. "Either that, or we keep her, and just collect .all. the Chosen. Ekuar could shape a room for them." Rayek splutters, and then smiles grimly. "And keep them until Winnowill agrees to leave us alone?" Ember's eyes dance. "It has potential. Without her Chosen, Rayek, how strong is her hold on the Mountain?" Rayek grins, eyes glittering, ferally. "Yes." He begins to pace again, considering this idea, turning it over in his head. "Yes. We do not harm them, as long as they uphold the peace of these halls... but we will keep watch. If harm is dealt... then we order Petalwing to wrap." Ember chews her lower lip a moment. "Petalwing is the only Preserver here, isn't it? Another one or two wouldn't hurt. I wonder if I should get more." Rayek nods, firmly. "Petalwing is the only one; do you know of others who could be talked into coming?" Ember smiles quickly. "To protect the Homeplace? I think I could get every Preserver in the world to come, to do that." Then she laughs. "I'm not that crazy, though>" Ember nods again. "Should I go looking for bugs now, --" Okay, she'll be kind, "Rayek, or wait until we see if we can snare Alorn?" Rayek appears to be relaxing -- or, perhaps, returning to that driven, intense frame of mind he had been in, before. As he paces, he muses aloud, "We need the Preservers. But we also need to keep watch on Alorn. The others in the Palace must be alerted, and asked for their aid..." Ember nods. "I think perhaps we should remove Alorn first. It will be a little time before another Chosen comes; I can go then, to look for Preservers." Rayek turns to look back at you, brow crinkled. "Remove Alorn _if_ she causes harm, but Ktai and WolfFlame and Neela believe she will..." Ember inclines her head. ** /If/ she causes harm. ** WolfFlame wanders in with some fresh meat (which she had so kindly cooked some of), ** I thought you might be hungrey ** Rayek glances up from where he and Ember have stood in intent conversation, at WolfFlame's offer. "Food," he murmurs, almost as if he'd forgotten about the concept. WolfFlame chuckles softly, ** You're alot like Del...he'd forget to eat as well if I didn't remind him...here, I hope you like the cooking style, this is how I make it for him...** Rayek releases a rueful sigh at WolfFlame's offer of food, and turns to approach her. "Thank you," he says gravely. Ktai has arrived. WolfFlame nods Ktai glides in, yawning. ** Watching him sleep... I'm about ready to fall over myself... ** She smiles as she takes note of the gathering. Ember, with a grateful smile, takes what is offered to her, as well. ** Thank you. ** As Ktai comes in, Rayek, Ember, and WolfFlame can be seen; there is the scent of meat, both cooked and uncooked, in the air. Currently facing WolfFlame, Rayek accepts her offering of cooked meat, and begins to eat it with the same restless intensity he has shown all day. Ktai flips her hair behind her ears, then wrinkles her nose. ** Someone burn something? ** WolfFlame smiles softly Rayek's eyes lighten a bit at Ktai's return. ** We have been speaking of plans, ** he sends, as he chews at his share of the food. Ktai lands lightly, and almost directly beside Rayek, leaning to kiss his cheek. ** Oh? Anything I can do? ** Rayek, at Ktai's question, straightens a bit and swallows his mouthful of meat before sending, gravely, ** Ember had an idea. Ember... would you speak of it? ** Ktai turns to look to Ember, black eyes interested. WolfFlame sits nearby to eat, though she listens carefully Ktai locksends ** You never told me... do you like my hair short, or long? ** Rayek blinks a bit at Ktai, suddenly smiling distractedly, just a bit. You locksend ** I... I have always liked long hair. ** to Ktai. Ktai flashes a quick grin at Rayek before looking back to Ember. Ember finishes her bite. "We need a trap," she says aloud, and then, more interested in eating than talking aloud, she begins to send. ** Something that will draw Alorn in, make her think she's safe. Once she begins to play her games--if she does--<> We have her. The trick is setting the trap with the right bait. ** Ktai locksends ** Mmm... Then perhaps I'll grow it long again. -If- you promise not to confuse me with Winnowill. ** Rayek watches Ktai as Ember sends. You locksend ** I could never do that. ** to Ktai. Ember sends openly ** It has to be something Alorn will believe. That's why I can't be the bait. Nobody would ever believe I'd turn willingly to Winnowill's side. ** Ktai nods. ** I'm the perfect bait. She sent to me originally with overtures of peace... something... ** She pauses. ** About my daughter, Eveshka. ** Rayek turns to regard all elves present, then, gravely. Ember watches Ktai as well, still chewing. ** You, on the other hand. You're from the Mountain. Alorn--/Winnowill/--would believe it. What about Eveshka? ** Ktai locksends ** ** Ktai shakes her head. ** I didn't find out. ** Ember leans forward, forgetting the food. "Ask her. Draw her in. Don't be alone with her at first--one of us can always stay nearby. Close enough that we'd know if she were trying her tricks. But once there's 'trust' established--.there's. the trap. If she tries anything, we'll .be. nearby, to stop her. The question is, can you resist her for the few minutes we'll need to wrap her?" Rayek watches Ktai, again, as Ember delivers her question, this time with a clearly anxious regard rather than the softer one with which he'd just favored her. Ktai thinks for a few moments. ** I don't have to meet her eyes... I know of that little trick. And... anything else... is purely physical. It's been some time since I had to fight... but I think I could manage. ** Ktai looks first to Ember, then to WolfFlame. Finally, her gaze rests on Rayek, to whom she offers what she hopes is a comforting smile. WolfFlame smiles softly, "We'll keep an eye on things if it gets too rough, I've caught Alorn once, I can do it again" "That's Petalwing's first target, her eyes. One spoot and her glare is useless. We only need a few moments." Ember's grin is quick, feral. "And I'll .know. when she starts playing games, as long as you're the least bit frightened. Scent changes." Ktai shakes her head. ** I'm not afraid of Alorn. ** Rayek sends, quietly, firmly, ** _I_ will be listening. I do not have Suntop's strength of sensing magic -- but after all the years I have spent in this place, I have learned how to listen for certain things. ** Wolfrider ears, then; Ember's not worried about failing to make the 'rescue', once it's necessary. She nods at Ktai. "Will you do it, then? Be bait for our trap?" Eren soulsends ** And there are things that only you can hear... ** Ktai nods once. ** I will. ** Ember's eyes, merrily, go to Rayek. ** I believe we have a plan, then, chieftain. ** Rayek blanches, then blushes, and shoots a clearly embarrassed glance to Ember. ** Stop that, ** he growls. WolfFlame nods approvingly Ktai blinks, raising both eyebrows. Ember grins. "Or what?" Rayek turns quite red under his desert tan, and sends grumpily, ** I am no one's chieftain, Ember -- haven't I spent enough time placing myself above and apart from elves? ** Ktai smiles thoughtfully, reaching out to toy with Rayek's hair. ** But you wear your hair like a chief... and you -are- the best qualified... ** Rayek whirls on Ktai, and cries, "Don't you start!" Ember snorts. ** Haven't you spent enough time watching my father to know better than that, Rayek? A true chief is one who is not above his tribesmates. He leads because he has a clear head, not because he's better. He knows when to ask for help, and when to heed what warnings he hears. I do not place you above me, Airwalker. But I call you chieftain, and mean it. Your actions deserve it. ** Ember looks at you for a moment. Ktai steps back quickly, lowering her hand, all trace of teasing replaced by a look of unmitigated surprise, and a flash of hurt. Her softly edged voices offers one single protest before she draws back. "I was only teasing..." WolfFlame just watches in silence, used to following a leader, not arguing such a point Rayek's shoulders slump at Ktai's expression, and he lowers his gaze to the floor. "I am not chief here," he whispers. "Or master." Ktai locksends ** You are yourself, Rayek. You command, whether you desire it or not. You cannot help it... just as I cannot help loving you. ** Ember scowls. "I meant it as an honor," she mutters, then stands and stomps up the stairs of the Palace. Ember makes her way up the long staircase. Ember has left. Ktai looks to Rayek now, crossed between annoyance at herself for letting his outburst upset her, and compassion for Rayek. Rayek then flashes an astonished and pained look after Ember, and snarls at himself, "Great Sun... Ember!" You locksend ** Ember..... I... forgive me, please...! ** to Ember. Ktai shakes her head. ** Go on... ** WolfFlame frowns at all this, "What does it matter what we call you WolfFlame says "Chief, master of the Palace, or just simply Chief Hunter? You're organizing the hunt aren't you in a sense?" You sense in a locksend, Ember is genuinely angry. ** Timorn's -blood-, Rayek. What did you -think- I meant? Only to tease you? -Puckernuts-. ** Ktai looks up towards the stairs, sending. Rayek, looking rather as if he's just been stabbed in the gut, closes his eyes, his face still pointed at the floor. Ktai steps to Rayek, offering her hand. Rayek's eyes are closed, and he does not see Ktai's hand; she, though, can see tension tautening his frame, and the corners of his eyes. Ktai sighs softly, resting her hand on Rayek's shoulder. WolfFlame sighs softly and pulls out her dagger to continue her work on it's blade Ktai locksends ** We're all afraid... even Ember. Even me. ** You locksend to Ember, Rayek does not answer you immediately -- but he does, eventually, and firmly, though with a husky effort to his mental voice that suggests he's wrestling with shame and the effort to avoid retreating from this -- a challenge, of sorts. ** Ember... huntress... you spent turns in my thoughts, and I in yours. I... understand, or at least hope I do, what being a chief _means_ to a Wolfrider. ** Ktai sighs softly, watching WolfFlame leave. As soon as the door closes, she sends, ** Rayek... what difference does it matter what she calls you? It's what she knows. I might have called you Lord once... ** Ember locksends ** <> Aye. As long as I've known you, and from everything Mother's ever said, you have .always. been a leader, Rayek. You have magics respected by the Palace and by elves, and for the .first. time, you are using your .wisdom. as well. You were always a leader. Now you're acting like a chief. I meant it /well/. ** Ktai shakes her head. ** It's a title of honour and admiration, not some slanderous and untrue statement. ** Rayek lifts his face, and his eyes are anguished. Rayek stares into the air, apparently sending. Ktai locksends ** ** Ktai shakes her head as she sends. Ktai locksends, to Ember, Rayek: ** Listen, you two. As long as we keep arguing and hurting each other, we will always give Winnowill some small bit of darkness in which to place herself. I should know. Ember, Rayek, please... we all want the same thing, can we not find a middle path to walk on and achieve it? ** You locksend ** I... ... know. And... thank you. But... ** to Ember. Ktai lets out a long, slow breath, looking up at the ceiling as if to plead with the High Ones. Rayek's gaze snaps to you, and for a moment, he doesn't seem sure whether to blush or to sigh in relief. Ktai's eyes are dark, and the slightest tinge of annoyance flashes once within them. Ember locksends, to Ktai, Rayek: ** <> I wasn't trying to HURT anyone! I offered a thrice-blasted /honor/ and he--<> ** You locksend, to Ktai, Ember: Rayek registers blank startlement for a moment, then sends, self-mockingly, ** I, as usual, make a boar's end of myself. But... ** His sending roughens, tasting of the sense of trying to swallow a lump in one's throat. ** Ember, I am sorry. ** Ktai locksends, to Ember, Rayek: ** Ember! For once, won't you try and understand?! ** Ktai's eyes flash to the stairs, and she makes a slight motion as if to go up those stairs herself. You sense in a locksend to Ktai, Rayek: Ember's sending, for lack of a better way to describe it, is a black scribble, mollified around the edges--until Ktai's send. And then she drops out of the conversation again, flatly. Well, that settles it. Ktai lifts her hand from your shoulder, and without bothering to glide, stalks up the stairs. Enough of this petty nonsense. Ktai makes her way up the long staircase. Ktai has left. [Half a moon ago, Rayek might have stalked off, refusing to confront the strife his own words had caused. But Tilia's counsel has lingered in his mind, and, heedful that now more than ever he must face conflicts like this head on, he strides off after Ktai and Ember, after only a moment's hesitation.] You step through the tall doorway, and into the... Scroll Chamber This smallish chamber is sparsely furnished, bearing only a single empty chair which faces a platform; on this platform are the holders for the two halves of the Scroll of Colors. Around you, the pale walls seem to ripple in places, but perhaps that is a physical sensation, a trick of the light; what cannot be a light-trick is the sense of *presence* in the chamber, of welcome, and of magic. Contents: Ktai Ember Scroll of Colors Obvious exits: Out Ktai's send is dry. ** Because I asked. ** Rayek, without sound, appears at the door of the chamber, an airwalker-shaped shadow. Ktai stands just beyond said door, looking at a particularly surly Ember, who has sat herself in the Chair by the Scrolls. Ember suggests, ** Ask again later. ** /Much/ later. Rayek sucks in a breath, releases it, then sends a simple announcement of his presence. ** Any much later, and it will be too late. ** Ktai's send flashes out. The sender steps forward: she's not afraid of you, she knows what you can do. ** So? Answer me. ** Rayek's send goes noted, and tucked aside for now. Ember knew you were there; she smelled you. She's ignoring the airwalker. ** I have nothing to answer to you .for.. ** Ktai steps closer. ** Don't you? Or will you forget our friendship? Throw everything away because someone had a /bad reaction/ to something you said. Is that the WolfRider Way? ** Ember's jaw sets. ** Tell me, Ktai. Do Gliders never lose their temper? Do you spend all your lives in one steady, emotionless flow? If you will GO AWAY I will GET OVER IT. ** Ktai smiles sweetly. Too sweetly. ** I think you can see that I _have_ lost my temper, little one. Many times. Like... right now. And if Winnowill were to send, she could control me in a heart's beat. She could most likely control -you- as well. ** Rayek, noting himself ignored, scowls. Then, puts in, grimly, quietly, ** I would wish that you would not argue; Ktai is right, we do not have the time for it. I will not make you stop if you insist on it, but I would like to announce that I feel like dung once for putting the Palace and the elves in it at risk, twice for hurting you, Ember, and thrice for angering you both over a title I do not deserve simply for acting with sense for once instead of pride. I am going now to Ekuar, to seek his counsel on how to keep my soul out of Winnowill's grasp. ** He turns on his sandaled foot, the end of his tail of black hair swishing a bit as he stalks out. [With that, Rayek stalks grimly down to find Ekuar, trying hard to calm himself.] Side Corridor(#6192RFL) This is one of the smaller corridors through the Palace, and gives less of a feeling of airy, open space than the larger passageways do. The damage that the Palace suffered is no longer in evidence here; translucent walls and columns once again swoop smoothly and gracefully to a delicately arched ceiling. Obvious exits: Rayek's Chamber Entry Hall Ember locksends ** <> I'm sorry. ** You locksend to Ember, Rayek, after a beat, can be sensed to mentally turn towards you. As though not quite trusting himself to put thoughts into words, he simply sends a nod, and with it, shame at having caused such an argument. Ember has arrived. Ktai has arrived. Ember enters, rather unbelievably, hand-in-hand with Ktai. As Ktai and Ember enter the corridor, Ktai send-laughs. ** I'm not the only one around here who glides. ** Rayek has paused near the entryway into the chamber he shares with Ekuar, and he is looking bemusedly over one silk-clad shoulder, eyes liquid. ** Rayek, ** Ember sends loftily, ** is a special case. A Sun Villager with airs. Not like us sensible Wolfriders, with our feet on the ground. <> ** Ktai laughs again. ** I've had my feet on the ground. I prefer it, actually. ** Rayek, at that, turns fully, one corner of his lean mouth twitching. Smirk, or smile? It's not quite clear which. Ember, rather than respond, looks to Rayek. ** Ktai asked me an interesting question, airwalker. ** Ktai looks to Rayek, her eyes brimming with laughter. A dark presence is felt nearby, as if Winnowill was somewhere about, and active. Rayek's gaze flickers into the air for a moment, then, almost as if acknowledging that subliminal dark shimmer in the air and deliberately ignoring it, he lifts both his eyebrows and faces the two females with a genuine smile tugging at his mouth. "That question would be?" ** 'How long has it been since you treed with more than one lovemate?' ** Ember waits a full three beats for the question to sink in, before she extends a hand towards the golden-eyed elf. Ktai retains a laugh, offering her hand to Rayek as well. Rayek blinks, swallows, then murmurs wryly and huskily, "I... have never done so." ** That, ** Ember replies, ** was my answer. ** Ktai's send is soft. ** Nor have I... ** Rayek lifts both his hands, taking the two offered him. "I have not forgotten your... request, Ember. The one you made, some time ago." Ember's send is touched with a little shyness. ** Perhaps the time is better now...? ** Ktai doesn't dare send, but she does squeeze the hands she holds. Winnowill locksends ** /Soft, and oh yes, definately nearby./ So... is that the key, my soul's brother? To have two willing mates? ** Rayek grins, quirkily. "Someone once told me," he murmurs, "that the best way to clear one's head is a good tumble in the furs." Ember, assuredly, says, "It is." Ktai's send is soft. ** Sounds like something Ekuar told me once. ** ** Kahvi, ** Ember disputes, for the sake of argument rather than caring. Ktai shrugs softly. It doesn't matter. Rayek's brown chin lifts, and a glimmer of light flickers within his amber regard. ** Kahvi, ** he observes, ** is not here. ** Ember laughs. ** If she were, she'd want to know why we were still standing around. ** Ktai sends openly ** A good question, indeed. ** At that, the airwalker chuckles without sound. And murmur-sends, ** I would be honored if you both would help me... clear my head. ** Winnowill locksends ** /A dark laugh ripples through, caressing you./ Oh I will definitely remember -this-, my soul's brother. This and more... ** Rayek delivers his sending with a ringing clarity. Perhaps he's conscious of an incorporeal ear on him. And if he is, perhaps he does not care. There's a growing hint of joy in his eyes. And with it, a bright defiance. You locksend to Winnowill, Rayek turns his attention to you, and sends, simply, ** Remember that I have learned to realize true love when I see it, Winnowill -- and that I have learned that I am stronger when I do not try to stand alone. ** Rayek glances into the air for a moment, then abruptly grins fiercely, and gestures you both, with a tug to your hands, towards his chamber. Winnowill locksends ** /The laugh ripples again./ Indeed, my soul's brother. You will never -be- alone... ** Ktai swallows hard, but allows herself to follow Rayek, her eyes flickering briefly. Ember laughs, and gives a half skip, half jump, bounding ahead, trying to keep all hands together at the same time. ** Nor, ** she sends openly, cheerfully, ** have I ever had an audience, I dn't think! ** Ember has left. You locksend to Winnowill, Rayek replies blithely, ** Good. Perhaps then you will learn what strength lies in real love. ** Then, his sending sobers. ** It's a lesson I've wished you would take to heart for some time now. ** And with that, he withdraws, into that new, strong light that has strengthened his thoughts. Ktai catches, a brief pause, her hands slipping free. The last send from Ember echoes in her ears. Rayek's Chamber(#7481RAFJL) Smaller than many of the other chambers of the Palace of the High Ones, this quiet nook is the place Rayek has appropriated for what passes as his rest. Like the rest of the Palace, it is a room of oddly rippling walls and ceiling and floor, a room where a flicker out of the corner of your eye might be a shadow -- or perhaps a lingering spirit. Ekuar's deft and ancient touch is everywhere you look, in softly smoothed stone and gently curving walls. Shaped torch-holders bathe the chamber with a warm glow when the tapers are lit. The old rockshaper has crafted this place to be restful for the spirit, radiating the care he feels for his Brownskin. Contents: Ember Obvious exits: Corridor Out in the corridor, Ktai remains outside the door, looking in to the room, something unseen in her eyes. Rayek hrms, then, not releasing Ember's fingers, steps just slightly out again... You step out into the corridor. Side Corridor(#6192RFL) Contents: Ktai Obvious exits: Rayek's Chamber Entry Hall Rayek, one hand still in Ember's inside the door, looks back out, wanting to see why Ktai has not come with him. Ember steps out from Rayek's chamber. Ember has arrived. Ember steps out as well, reaching for Ktai's hand again. ** Ktai...? ** Ktai looks to Rayek, her eyes revealing several emotions: anger, reluctance, and embarrassment. Rayek meets Ktai's gaze, his own clear and bright and defiant, even in its gentleness. ** Beloved, ** he sends, ** _let_ her watch. Let her see that love does not ever force an elf into doing anything she does not want. It will be enough for us to embrace in joy, if that will comfort you. ** Rayek adds into the air, in devilish mischief, ** Besides, I think it rather speaks poorly of _her_ lovemates, if she must watch other elves to see how it is done... ** Ktai closes her eyes, seeming to draw in on herself. For a moment, even the most strained magic sense can feel nothing from her. Then, like a flare, something sparks, almost a visible aura of blue about her, and is gone. Only then does she open her eyes again. Ember laughs, and reaches for Ktai's hand again, to squeeze it. Winnowill locksends ** /Quickly, and at something, she recoils angrily./ ** Eren soulsends ** ** Ktai looks to you both, amusedly grim for a moment. ** _That_ felt good. Now... ** She takes your hands, smiling softly. ** You were saying? ** Rayek's eyes light with pride -- this time directed to Ktai. Ember grins, and steps backwards, towards the chamber again. Ember has left. Ktai gets willingly tugged along this time... Rayek's Chamber(#7481RAFJL) Contents: Ember Obvious exits: Corridor Out in the corridor, Ktai has left. Ktai has arrived. Here, in the quiet, gentle candlelit shadows of this chamber, Rayek draws you, and lets himself be drawn in turn, down into his furs. The last few moons have seen a resurgence of the airwalker's pride and strength; here, and now, you both can see in his face and form, and feel in the contact he opens to both your minds, a return of joy. [End log.]