Log Date: 9/12/96 Log Cast: Rayek, Ekuar, Youngblood, Ktai, Rigar Winnowill, Azeure, Sar Ember, Adi Log Credits: Contributions to this log came from Winnowill, Ktai, Sar, and Rayek's typists. Log Intro (What Has Gone Before): Following up on her velvety sendings to Rayek from afar, Winnowill has arrived at the Palace of the High Ones, bringing with her an entourage of three of her Chosen -- Alorn, Azeure, and Sar -- as well as Eveshka, the adopted daughter of Alorn and Azeure, and the blood daughter of Ktai. Grudgingly, Rayek consents to turn the Scroll of Colors for Winnowill, but she sends to him as he does so, trying to entice him with visions of the Palace of the High Ones as it could once more be. Rayek shields himself against her physical touch, but a better deterrent for Winnowill proves to be Ktai. Rayek, seeing Winnowill react less than positively to her arrival in the Scroll Room, sternly tells Winnowill that she and her Chosen are welcome as any elf in the Palace -- as long as she harms no one. Winnowill stalks out, locksending a veiled threat to Ktai as she goes, leaving Rayek, Rigar, Youngblood, and Ktai to worry about her motives. And in the meantime, more arrivals show up in the Palace, each with motives of their own, even as the exhausted Rayek agrees to rest only if the other elves in the Palace do not let Winnowill into the Scroll Room alone. Our log opens with the approach of Ember and Zirek to the Palace -- and Ember's sensing of her own Recognized mate within.... ---------- Sar, in the Scrollroom of the Palace, receives a mysterious send: ** Soulmate? Are you... at the Palace? **. His attention, so far only half on Rayek and Winnowill as he has been reaching mentally for half-felt presences in the Palace, now turns entirely to deal with the puzzling send as he maintains the appearance of being watchful. ** . I am here. Who are you, that you call me soulmate? ** Near the Palace: Ember, at Sar's answer, stares, motionlessly, for very long moments, and then, without a word to Zirek, begins to run. As fast as she can, and she will run all the way to the Palace, without ever stopping to look back for her young friend. Sar, meanwhile, slips away from Rayek and Winnowill, appearing rather absentminded as he searches for the source of the mysterious send. He steps out of a room... and encounters Ember. Sar emerges from the scrollroom quite slowly, a bit distracted looking. It is apparent he had not expected to find anyone outside, for as your presence finally registers, he freezes. Ember locksends ** S...sar? ** Ember stands alone; she has been hunting. You, in fact. Harder to do when scents are [pose truncated] Ember Huntress through and through, Ember is an economy of motion, lithe, whip-slender form lightly muscled under smooth brown skin. Her form is nearly fragile in its slim delicacy, fragility belied by strength of spirit and laughter in steady blue eyes. Her hair, colored like the dying flames she is named for, cascades in a soft riot of tangled curls down her back, a few long strands shagging over her eyes. Carrying: Dagger Sar Tall, and slender, as all gliders are, Sar's eyes are quiet, curious about the world, color dampened somewhat. His hair is grown long, pulled back loosely from his pale, high-cheekboned face. He wears the outfit of a Chosen, the dark blues and blacks of the cloth fit closely to his body. The collar is low, adorned with soft feathers, and diamond patterns reaching up his sides and down narrow legs. Boots are on his feet, knee high and feathered as well, and at his hip is a talonwhip, weapon of the Chosen Eight. Azeure arches a brow as he makes his way to the landing ** Chosen.. Ember. ** Azeure nods to both. Ember whispers, aloud, "Sar," and nods, utterly distracted, at Azeure. Sar's first utterance is "Li..". Then he just stops, and stares at Ember. Azeure smiles a bit ** I think I shall simply let you two catch up ** Azeure vanishes down the stairs. Ember straightens from the partial crouch of the hunt, reaching a hand towards the tall Glider, though that hand pauses as her daughter's name comes to his lips. "S..sar?" Sar locksends ** No... You are not. You are different. Very different. ** to Ember. Ember's eyes gleam blue in the Palace's light. ** Ember, ** she sends to you, softly, in confusion. ** What's wrong, soulmate? ** Sar starts at the motion, floating back a step, then finally seems to gather himself. ** Of course. You are her. Cothee told me about you. **. His puzzled, almost frightened expression becomes more neutral. ** The Wolfrider. ** ** /Told.../? ** Ember's sending is bewildered, and she takes a step towards you. "Sar, what...what is it?" You sense in a locksend, Ember's sending is not gentle, with confusion. ** Sar, don't you *remember*? I'm --. ** Sar would go paler, if possible. After a long moment, in which he watches you unmoving, he finally steps forward again. His dark eyes are on yours, searching, wondering. And then he raises a hand himself, nearly touching a lock of your hair. You locksend to Ember, Sar's send is familiar, yet not, like an echo or shade of what it once was. ** . ** Ember catches that hand in her own small dark one, bringing it to her lips. Less a caress than --a bite, almost, though her sharp teeth do not break the skin. ** Sar. What has happened to you? ** Sar gasps, pulling back a step, then another. His eyes start to flicker. "No. I don't know you. This is not right." You locksend to Winnowill, Sar's send is faintly distressed. ** Lord? ** Ember's sending explodes. ** Don't -know- me? Don't know your -soulmate-? Don't know the one you left the Mountain for, time and again? Don't know the one who gave her -cub- to the -Mountain- for you? Don't -know- me? ** She advances as you retreat, palpable rage in the air, intensified by the Palace's magics. Winnowill locksends ** Yes, Sar? /Her send is mildly annoyed, though not at you./ ** Sar backs away from the small elf, step by step, until a wall stops him. "I... do not. That was another time, another... You do not understand." ---------- [Meanwhile, as Sar and Ember confront one another, Adi arrives at the Palace -- geared up for a confrontation with the one she knows as its self-elected master, Rayek....] 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: Azeure Scroll of Colors Obvious exits: Out Ekuar arrives from the corridor outside. Ekuar has arrived. Azeure stands turning at the scrolls quietly pondering their depth.. not seeming to notice much else The scrolls turn and whirl.. mostly incoherent colors.. though once in awhile a fortunate memory of something turns up.. Ekuar shuffles in from the hallway, his gait lopsided but quick. Large, solemn eyes take in the room and its precious contents, appraisingly, before the elder approaches the platform and props himself on it. Still he searches for the one that eluded him those turns ago. Adi arrives from the corridor outside. Adi has arrived. Ekuar is not sitting in his ordinary relaxed posture of reverie; he's alert, and turns at the sound of Adi's step, aged brow creased inquiringly. Azeure sits, motionless, searching the scrolls Adi walks into the scroll chamber, cautiously. Glancing at each of the elves here, she frowns, "Where's Rayek.. the blackhair?" Petalwing flitflitflits near Ekuar, and eeps, flitting then over to inspect the newcomer. /More highthings? Hellohello.../ The Preserver's voice, highpitched as it is, is uncharacteristically solemn, and it peers intently at the stranger. Adi With hair as white as snow and eyes the colour of pine needles, the pale skinned elf stands about 3'3" inches tall. Smaller than the average elf of eighteen turns, the teen looks as though a gust of wind would sweep her away. Wearing a loose fitting grey crop top, probably cut from a tunic, and dark green leggings that are held up a belt cinched tightly around the narrow waste. Two pink scars are visible on the small elf's pale stomach and from the looks of it there might be one or two more hidden by the loose fabric. Your gaze is met coldly at first, but the youngster's taut features soften some. The dark green eyes burn with an agry fire that you dare not ask about. Her expression for now is a friendly one, but you get the sense that could change in an instant. Azeure blinks, his concentration broken as the scrolls settle "Oh hello.." Adi blinks at the Preserver, "You're a Preserver, they warned me about you. You spit webs." Ekuar grasps his sturdy staff and eases himself upright from where he was half-propped on the platform. His tone is pleasant enough, but those who know him would find his usual absent geniality replaced by a more sober sense of concern. "Brownskin is... busy just now, child. Can I do something? I'm-- eh-- Ekuar." Petalwing pipes firmly, /Am Petalwing! Petalwing take good care of sharpdark highthing, and Homeplace!/ Adi nods, "You're Petalwing, no problem there." She glances over at the aged elf and nods, "You lived at the Lodge, I'm Adi... a GoBack." Ekuar tips his head to one side, curiously. "I did, I did indeed! Did I know you when I lived there, eh, little one? My old head can't always carry all the-- eh-- names and faces it ought." Adi shakes her head, "No, I was born after the War." Ekuar ahs, and nods benignly. His smile appears, gentle and pleased. "Well. We know each other now, don't we? Eh? So tell me, how can I help you, pretty warrior?" Petalwing lands atop Orolin's Chair, and peers down forthrightly at the elves. Adi shrugs, "I came to ask Rayek something. Never been here before, to the Palace that is." She folds her arms across her chest and glances at the Scroll, "I want to know when the Palace is going to be ours to guard again." Ekuar says mildly, "The Palace is already yours, child. It's-- eh-- all of ours, together. And so we all guard it. In our own ways. Hm?" Adi says "I can understand that, my father, Shado, has told me about that. The GoBack's need the Palace though, it's a reason to keep fighting." Azeure just grins quietly, listening to the conversation. Ekuar chuckles, a good-humored and earthy sound. "Oh, my dear. The GoBacks hardly need a reason to keep fighting, eh? I could never imagine them stopping." His tone is teasing, but genuinely respectful and admiring at the same time. "You have the-- eh-- spirit of warriors, all of you. And no matter where the Home of us all may rest, we're all still a part of it." Adi slouches, "You don't understand, elder. My tribe, we're tired. No one wants to keep fighting just because, the Palace was the reason to keep fighting. I never felt the tug of the Palace, my parents knew it from the day they popped out." Azeure smiles a bit at Adi "Well.. now you know the beauty of the Palace, and all of its wonder." Adi nods, "Yeah but that won't make me feel any better about going back to the Lodge, dying fighting trolls because we're waiting for the Palace to be returned." Azeure rises, "Well.. I think I will go see about my daughter" Azeure nods to Ekuar and Adi, then heads out Azeure has left. Ekuar asks thoughtfully, "If your tribe is tired, warrior... Then wouldn't it be, eh, better for them to turn their energies elsewhere? As I remember, when the GoBacks turn their stubbornness to other tasks, they achieve great things. Something to live and work for, instead of the same fighting for the same thing." Adi crosses the floor to stand next to on hlaf of the Scroll of Colors, reaching out hesistanly to touch it, "If there was something other than the fighting, we'd have tried it, Ekuar. The trolls still set traps and still try to kill us." Adi frowning, "My father survived the War to die guarding the elk pens." Petalwing> Ekuar nods sorrowfully. "But bringing the Palace to the cold lands won't change that, child. Your folk and the Trolls are at swords' edge in any case, hm?" He leans on his staff a bit more heavily. "Such a shame," he murmurs. "So much pain, and so much sadness." ---------- [And meanwhile, in Rayek's chamber, where he sleeps under the gentle watch of Ktai...] Rayek lies, at last, after much coaxing, on his furs; he is on his back, one knee crooked up, an arm thrown across his eyes. Ktai sits quietly, as she has all night, weaving that thin veil over and over, remembering the old defences and refreshing herself after many years of non-need. She watches Rayek with gentle yet steady eyes, for she has sworn to herself that no harm should come to Rayek before it falls to her. She is in Winnowill's way, this she knows. She does not fear it, any more than she fears the fact that Alorn is now Loyal to Winowill. It is simply a fact, and facts must be dealt with. So she waits, watching and preparing for what is to come. Rayek's slim small frame has relaxed only with an effort of will on the airwalker's part, and even then, his mouth can be seen under his arm to be set in a grim, taut line. His breathing is slow, paced, even enough, but not as deep as a truly restful slumber might relay. Ktai whispers softly "Sleep, my beloved... I shall not let Her near..." She scans the room as she whispers, leaning against the wall. Ktai frowns. Her senses pick up sending... and it feels like that black one. Rayek shifts, slightly restlessly, mouth quivering a moment. Ktai moves lightly to Rayek, sending soft comfort. Winnowill locksends, to Ktai, Rayek: ** Ktai. I must advise you to release him and let him make his choice. ** Ktai shivers suddenly, violently, then steels herself. Ktai locksends, to Winnowill, Rayek: ** I have reason enough to believe that he would go with me. ** Winnowill locksends, to Ktai, Rayek: ** /Dark comes the send/ Ktai. You only cause him harm with your love. He could only ever love me... so why not let him go? ** Ktai locksends, to Winnowill, Rayek: ** I will not let you harm him, Winnowill. ** Winnowill locksends, to Ktai, Rayek: ** /Annoyed, her send tinges with pain./ Foolish Ktai, to think that you can fight me. ** Ember locksends, to Ktai, Adi, Eveshka, Azeure, Ekuar, Winnowill, Sar, Rayek: ** <> ** Rayek jerks suddenly, groaning. Ktai gasps, doubling over, trying not to wake Rayek... the second send literally knocks her over. ---------- [And meanwhile, in the Scroll Chamber, just after Ember's send of rage....] Adi winces and clutches at her head, face somewhat contorted with pain. Adi drops to one knee, shaking her head. A soft groan escapes her. Ekuar flinches slightly as well, but it seems more out of surprise than the same sort of pain. "Oh, child," he says softly, turning his head to look out the doorway with wide, worried eyes. "Child, I'm sorry... There are things happening here. Things that can... hurt. I don't want you to-- eh-- get caught in the middle of them." Adi mutters, "That hurt. Who.. who sends like that?" Ekuar's eyes go unfocused, slowly, as he looks into the middle distance. He doesn't answer just yet; instead, he concentrates. Adi stands up, leaning against the Scroll for support. "Whatever's happening here just dragged me right into it, painfully." Ekuar's eyes slowly focus again, and he gives a weary sigh. "I'm so sorry, little warrior. How I wish that this place held nothing but peace... for all of us..." Adi frowns, "Well then the sooner I see Rayek, the sooner I'll be out of this place. That is until it's returned to where he found it." Ekuar looks up again, eyes sad. "Rayek is... not the sole arbiter of the Palace's fate, child. Talking to him will-- eh-- do little good. And he so needs his rest. Can't you talk to me, instead?" Adi says "I doubt after that sending from whoever, he's asleep. If it rattled me then it pricked his ears too." Ekuar asks quietly, "What would you ask him, hm? To move the Palace back to your homeland? He cannot do it. Not right now..." Adi says "And why not?" Ekuar says with gentle patience, "Because he is no longer the sole Master here. He has sworn not to use the Palace as if it were his-- eh-- sole property. And so even if you ask, he cannot give you a firm answer yet." Adi says "Then who else do I have to talk to to make sure my tribe gets what they died for?" Ekuar bows his head slightly, wearily. "Dear GoBack... the Palace is already yours, and your tribe's. It's everyone's, eh? Every elf's birthright. Your lives have meaning still, no matter where the stones of the Palace rest from moment to moment." He looks up, eyes deep and luminous. "If you cannot-- eh-- be at peace with that, I can only tell you to perhaps talk to one of your own. Another little warrior, much like yourself, called Tilia. Do you know her?" ---------- [Back in Rayek's chamber....] Rayek's eyes fly open, and he mumbles, "Wha...?" Ktai sits up herself, looking over. "A send... I don't know who..." Rayek breathes, startledly, "Ember?!" Unsteadily, but quickly becoming alert, Rayek sits up. Ktai says "Oh... be careful... Winnowill is out there too." You locksend to Ember, Rayek's mental presence flares up, bright, golden, alert... slightly strained, though a mind in hot rage might not notice. ** Ember?! ** Ember locksends ** <> ** Rayek sucks in a breath, shakes his head as though to clear it, and looks at you, eyes round, expression ever so slightly suggesting befrazzlement, as though so many things are happening at once that he has barely enough time to juggle them. "I know," he says, a bit pantingly. "Come...!" Rayek is on his feet in an instant, gliding out of the chamber. Ktai rises, following. [Rayek and Ktai hasten to up to find the source of the sending....] ---------- [And meanwhile, both Winnowill and Azeure hear Ember's sending of rage as well, down in the lower levels of the Palace....] Winnowill blinks, and looks towards the stairs with mild bemusement. Azeure arches a brow, glancing up the steps ** Voll's Blood! Think you, Sar is alright? ** Winnowill says "I am not certain. Perhaps I should aid..." Azeure looks off a moment, frowning a bit, then nods, she's probably safer that way. Azeure sends openly ** Shall I accompany you my Lord? ** Winnowill nods, sweeping up the stairs. You make your way up the long, winding stairwell. Second Level Contents: Sar Ember Obvious exits: Scroll Chamber Winding Stairway Type 'palace help' for commands you may use here. Ember is practically under Sar's nose. She's got him backed up to the wall, and is Pissed Off. Winnowill walks in smoothly, her face expressionless. A slender eyebrow raises as she sees one of her Chosen cowed by a Wolfrider. Ember's sending slams out, a deadly angered growl, though she doesn't turn as the Snake's scent reaches her nose. ** What. Did. You. Do. To. Him. ** Azeure comes up the stairwell from below. Azeure has arrived. Azeure glides up, next to Winnowill, a brow arched Winnowill folds her arms. "Only what he asked for, child." Winnowill locksends ** Are you injured? ** to Sar. Ember's slender shoulders tighten and she sends, still deadly quiet. ** What. ** Winnowill doesn't answer. Ktai comes up the stairwell from below. Ktai has arrived. Ktai follows, hot on Rayek's heels, so to speak. Rayek's heels, along with the rest of him, come gliding up fast along the stairs. His eyes are round, surprisedly alert; once in view, he hovers there, surveying the scene with a gaze that flashes quickly along the corridor. Winnowill frowns slightly at the scene before her. Ember, much shorter than Sar, sucessfully cowing her Chosen against the wall. Azeure arches a brow, turning to see the two ** Ahh.. hello to the two of you ** You sense in a locksend, Ekuar's mind is with you, quickly, hastening to touch and reassure. Concern and worry flicker around the edges of a core of stability and trust... as steady as the rock his soul knows so well. ** Brownskin... I'm still with the Scroll. How do you fare, hm? ** Ktai watches Rayek, she is not as concerned about the others... but Rayek and Winnowill are her main guards. One for, one against. You locksend ** Here. Awake... well. ** to Ekuar. Sar looks somewhat pathetically relieved to see Winnowill, and floats up into the air, swiftly, evading the stalking Ember at last. Winnowill turns, smiling with ease at Rayek, and only for a brief instant sends a scathing look Ktai's direction before turning back to Sar. Winnowill locksends ** Are you injured? ** to Sar. Azeure locksends ** Perhaps I will stay a bit after you and the others have left to work my charm upon Ktai... ** to Winnowill. Sar floats over towards Winnowill, abandoning the fuming Ember. Somewhat embarrasedly floating around to the far side of his Lord, he lands lightly near her. Rayek senses in a locksend, Ekuar sends quietly, ** I saw the huntress when first she arrived. Not so long ago. She was... disturbed... to hear of Winnowill's visit. As well as one of Winnowill's companions, called Sar. He was her Recognized, you see? And yet, she says he no longer -remembers- her. Most distressing. ** Azeure locksends ** I believe it to be best for my family relations should Eveshka not learn of what we intend. ** to Winnowill. Winnowill locksends, to Ktai,: ** You should have stayed behind, Ktai. /The send is dark, yet carries no pain./ ** Sar locksends ** I am unhurt, Lord. I just.. I did not know what to do. I think it is Her. I am... confused. ** to Winnowill. Winnowill locksends ** Indeed. ** to Azeure. Winnowill locksends ** Her who, Sar? ** Sar licks dry lips, glancing over towards Ember, then keeping his gaze on the marginally safer Winnowill. Ktai's dark eyes flare angrily as she looks to Winnowill. Were Sar not in her way... Sar locksends ** Cothee told me about Liri's mother. I think it is her. I can see her... ** to Winnowill. Winnowill locksends ** /Dark curiosity tinges her send./ What is it, Sar? ** to Sar. Sar locksends to Winnowill, Sar sends a bit weakly. ** Her soul. I Know her. But she's an outsider, I don't know her, I.. **. Realizing he is starting to ramble, he pulls himself together. ** Lord, I do not know what to do. ** Azeure's lips curl faintly, he nods once to Winnowill and then eyes Sar a bit amusedly. Ktai locksends, to Winnowill, ** It is best I do not, Winnowill of the blackest heart. ** Winnowill locksends, to Ktai ** Ktai, useless and idle threats are nothing to me. As for names, you can call me as many names as your poor mind can imagine. The fact still remains. Rayek is mine. ** Ktai scowls at Winnowill. She will not lose her temper, she will not lose her temper! Azeure glances over to Ktai, arching a brow. Rayek finally sends, weightedly, pointedly, ** If there is to be a fight, here, take it outside. Do not dishonor the halls of the Palace with combat. ** Ember's hot glance flicks to him, blankly... for an instant, the rage in her own face wavers. Then she snarls, thunderously, at Sar, "_Outside_!" Azeure locksends, to Ktai, Winnowill: ** What troubles you sister? ** Ktai locksends, to Winnowill: ** Winnowill, might I remind you that you are in the Palace of the High Ones. At least -try- to seem like one of those you purport to be! ** Sar's nerve breaks again as Ember appears to start towards him and Winnowill. He breaks off whatever sending he was doing, and flees. Azeure watches Sar and Ember with a slightly amused grin, though his gaze settles upon Ktai Sar vanishes down the stairs. Sar has left. Rayek's own gaze flickers a moment as Ember charges past him with barely a look in his direction; then, still not moving from where he hovers, he eyes those remaining. Winnowill watches Sar go with mild bemusement on her face, and allows the small WolfRider to pass unharmed. It would almost be amusing to follow Winnowill whirls suddenly to face Ktai. Something dark flashes in her eyes and she sends. Azeure frowns thoughtfully. Azeure locksends ** Lord? ** to Winnowill. Winnowill locksends, to Ktai: ** /Dark, and more than slightly painful/ Fool. How could you know what the High Ones were like? You are far from old enough. ** Winnowill locksends ** /She is quite angry, for Ktai has stung her like an annoying wasp./ ** to Azeure. Ktai winces sharply, stepping backwards physically. Eren soulsends ** Get... away from Her... ** Azeure locksends ** Perhaps if you shared.. I could aid you my Lord.. this need not become painful for any party.. and should you pain Ktai before Rayek.. it would only endanger your position.. ** to Winnowill. Winnowill locksends ** /A trace of Ktai's last send/ -Winnowill, might I remind you that you are in the Palace of the High Ones. At least -try- to seem like one of those you purport to be!- ** to Azeure. Rayek flicks a look at Ktai, then sends, facing Winnowill, ** Do not harm her, Winnowill. ** Azeure locksends ** If I might presume.. I do not believe it would endear Rayek to you in the least to put a damper on their budding romance.. Hmm.. I see.. perhaps an unsettling knowing smile would have been more appropriate my Lord. ** to Winnowill. Azeure frowns thoughtfully, pondering. Winnowill turns abruptly, without answering any sends, and walks into the Scroll Room. Winnowill enters the chamber of the Scroll of Colors. Winnowill has left. Ktai leans against the wall, and shakes. You sense in a locksend, Ekuar's mind is with you again at once, overriding everything with a gentle but insistent touch: ** Brownskin. Winnowill is here, in the Scroll chamber. ** Azeure frowns thoughtfully as he moves to Ktai's side ** My deepest apologies Rayek.. ** Azeure sends openly ** And to you as well sister. ** Rayek lands, then, after a lingering look to Ktai; his expression has not lost a whit of alertness, though at the corners of his eyes are slight hollows, speaking of rest not gained, not enough. He sighs, then, tightly, and strides into the Chamber. "Thank you, Azeure," he says over his shoulder, "but you are not the one who owes them, I think." Ktai locksends ** No... wait! She's dangerous, Rayek! ** to Rayek. Ktai moves to follow Rayek, forcing herself to stand steadily. Azeure raises a brow, placing a hand first on her shoulder, then to her cheek, his voice soft and soothing "Easy sister.. She is quite angry with you.. perhaps it would be best if you remained with me.. I assure you.. She is the one in danger at the end of Rayek's wrath" Rayek locksends ** This is why I cannot let her be at the Scrolls alone. ** back to Ktai. Ktai shakes her head, and then curses. "I have to be there! I can't let her harm him!" Ktai locksends ** She can't move them! ** to Rayek. Azeure places a finger to your lips softly "Shhh.. nonsense.. I would say of all here he is the safest from harm from her.." Ktai looks to you, a kind of desperation in her eyes. ** Azeure, you remember what she did to me, to Daia... to Valdir and Kaia. I can't let her harm Rayek! ** Azeure shakes his head slowly "I remember my dear sister.. I remember.. but honestly.. Rayek is far stronger.. and he commands the forces within the palace.. do you -really- believe he is in danger?" Ktai sends openly ** Yes. ** Ktai moves again to enter the Scroll Chamber. Azeure frowns thoughtfully, "Please sister.. I don't know if I, or your beloved could bear it if you were to take her in her wrath" Azeure's eyes plead with you. Ktai locksends ** ** to Rayek. Ktai looks to you, her own eyes alfame. ** I would die for him! ** Ktai senses in a locksend, Rayek's mind flashes with a new tension: a Go-Back is here. But he sends you what strength he can spare. Azeure nods, his palm resting lightly against your cheek "I know you would my dear, but I assure you, neither he nor I would wish to see it come to pass" Ktai almost shrieks, terrified. It comes out as a half-uttered squeak that gets lost in a half-sob. Azeure's arms move to embrace you warmly, his voice a calm, soothing whisper "Shhh.. easy now.. I am certain your beloved will be just fine" Ktai tries to tear herself away. "He's cornered!" Azeure lets you from his embrace, arching a brow "Cornered?.. Hardly.. he went in after her dear one" Ktai moves again for the Scroll Room, but you stand in her way. "There's a Go-Back in there!" Azeure says "Listen to me Ktai.. you must understand.. if you go in there, she will play upon the fact that she can get to him through you.. I know her better than most know her.. and you know this to be true.. she will use you to hurt him.. and the Go-Back is a young one.. and Ekuar is there to help him if I remember." Ktai has focused only on Rayek. "He needs my help!" Eren soulsends ** ** to Rayek. Azeure says "How much help do you believe you will be to him, curled upon the floor?" Ktai sobs furiously, beating her fists against you in mute fury. Azeure simply hugs you to him, comforting and gentle despite the blows. Ktai eventually sobs into you, hot powerless tears falling. Azeure holds you tenderly in his arms, stroking your hair softly. Ktai just sobs. Azeure just holds you there, his comforting and soothing warmth against you. Ktai sobs furiously, unable to do much more. Azeure kisses your temple softly, holding you there in his gentle arms. Ktai only sobs. Azeure hums softly, an ancient song Voll would sing to him, to teach him how to soothe people with the beauty of song, this memory he shares with you as he holds you. Ktai shakes, defending. No memories of the Mountain. Hers are long gone, the Mountain a faded nightmare. But this is no nightmare, a fond fond memory of the gentle Voll.. of the better time.. and the soothing touch of his voice.. oh how wonderful he was to us all. Ktai sobs. "No! No memories!" Azeure seeks only to soothe you, not to frighten or hurt you in any way, he holds you, not the memory any longer.. the feeling is shared, the soothing feel of the song. Ktai just cries openly. She loves him so... why can't he see that? Azeure kisses your forehead as he holds you, tenderly humming, into his own song, soothing with caresses of hand mind and voice, he loves you.. perhaps he is just afraid to admit it. Ktai cries. Azeure holds you tenderly, beginning to slowly rock you in his arms. ---------- [And in the Scroll Chamber....] Winnowill arrives from the corridor outside. Winnowill has arrived. Adi isn't satisfied in the slightest and it shows. "I don't know anyone named Tilia, she's never been at the Lodge when I was there. My elders told me that the Palace crashed up north, that's where it should stay." Azeure locksends ** My deepest apologies if I was out of line in suggesting ** to Winnowill. Winnowill walks in, frowning slightly. The sight of the Scrolls, however, gives her cause to settle and almost smile darkly. Winnowill locksends ** Just take care of her. /She is still quiet angry, and it colours the send./ ** to Azeure. Azeure locksends ** Yes my Lord. ** to Winnowill. Winnowill walks to the Scrolls and sits thoughtfully in the chair. Gazing at the Scrolls, she seems to send outward. Rayek strides in, as Petalwing grrs tinily at Winnowill and shakes a finger at her. /Nastybad longsofthair highthing! Grrr!/ Ekuar remains where he stands, leaning on his staff, eyes large and dark. His glance moves from Winnowill to Rayek. Ktai locksends ** No... wait! She's dangerous, Rayek! ** Adi stands next to one half of the scroll, gazing stubbornly at Ekuar. She tears her gaze from the elder to the tall elf, "The Preserver doesn't seem to like you." Rayek then halts, taking in the presence of yet another elf. For the briefest of instants, Ekuar, perhaps, more than anyone else here, might see a flicker of startlement and strain in Rayek's eyes, a momentary unvoiced thought of 'High Ones, how many more?' You locksend ** This is why I cannot let her be at the Scrolls alone. ** to Ktai. Winnowill's reply is low and wry. "Most don't." Petalwing sticks out its tongue and immediately zips to Rayek's shoulder. Adi says "Probably smart of them." Ktai locksends ** She can't move them! ** You sense in a locksend, Ekuar's mind is still with you, wordless, sensing the tension you are under in body and spirit. Alert, protective, father and teacher. ** <> ** Winnowill chuckles softly. "Perhaps not." Ekuar's eyes move from Rayek to Adi. With soft admonishment, he says, "Please, little warrior. Please, now. Let us have peace within the halls, hm?" Rayek says, curtly, "You cannot deny that there have not been reasons. Winnowill, Ktai sent, and she sent with thoughts filled with pain. I will say it again; do not harm her, or anyone else taking shelter in these halls." His gaze then shifts to Ekuar, and lastly to Adi. You locksend ** This one, who? ** to Ekuar. Winnowill sends about her, seeming to look for things rather than ask for the Scolls to be turned. Rayek eyes Adi, with the same stony gaze with which he has swept the tall black-haired healer, and asks, "You are?" You sense in a locksend, Ekuar admits ruefully, ** A GoBack... very young, very young indeed. She wanted to talk to you... to tell you that the Palace ought to go back to her homeland where it belongs. I tried to make her see reason, dear one... But you know how GoBacks can be. ** Winnowill looks at total ease in the stiff-backed chair, and smiles thinly. Adi meets Rayek's gaze cooly, giving him a brief nod of greeting. "You're Rayek. I'm Adi, as Ekuar has been putting it, a 'little warrior'... a GoBack." Rayek frowns for an instant, glancing at Ekuar -- or, rather, frowns more noticeably, for that expression has already lingered for several minutes on his face. "You are sent by Kahvi?" Adi says "Kahvi's been gone for Turns. No one sent me." Ktai locksends ** ** You locksend to Ktai, Rayek's mind flashes with a new tension: a Go-Back is here. But he sends you what strength he can spare. Winnowill remains sending about her. Winnowill locksends ** /Soft and caressing/ Now then, Rayek... where were we...? ** Rayek's eyes flicker again, taking this in; at last he says, tone still clipped, "The Palace is open to you as it is any other elves, though I have pledged to guard it and those within it. Take what welcome you can." Adi says "There some reason it wouldn't be?" Ekuar interjects gently, "Of course not, child. All are welcome here." His tone is sincere, although his gaze moves to linger uneasily on Winnowill. Winnowill remains silent, sending out and about her. Winnowill locksends ** /Gentle and caressive/ You seem tense, my soul's mate. Perhaps my healing is of need...? ** Adi glances from Ekuar to the tall elf in the chair, "She's about as welcome as a GoBack then, elder?" She points a finger at Winnowill, "She doesn't look much like a GoBack, pale like some of us but that's about it. What'd she do?" Eren soulsends ** ** Rayek, if he finds Adi's question of why welcome might not be given a confrontional one, gives no sign of it; indeed, his stance is already tense and alert, and it may well be that he cannot get any more wary of carriage. "It is a truth I have learned, Go-Back who was not sent by Kahvi, that the Palace cannot be barred from anyone. Take that as you will." Winnowill locksends ** /Soft and rippling through you./ It was banned from you... ** Rayek then pauses a little, mouth opening slightly, gaze inadvertantly drawn to the regal figure seated nearby. Adi sneers, "What afraid that one day you'll have a whole tribe of warriors on your doorstep? Don't worry, the trolls make it so only the younger ones, the ones they won't let fight, can get away without much fuss." Ekuar seems about to reply to Adi, but at Rayek's expression, the ancient rockshaper's attention is instantly riveted to him. There's no sign he even hears Adi any longer. You locksend ** ** to Winnowill. You sense in a locksend, Ekuar's presence is there once more, hovering protectively. ** Brownskin...? ** Winnowill locksends ** /Soft and compelling/ Rayek... come to me. I can ease your body and rest your mind... ** Rayek says, lowly, gruffly, "Go-Back, your tribe already came to this doorstep trying to get..." He abruptly cuts off, scowling at Winnowill, gaze fully on her now. Winnowill turns her head to look to Rayek calmly now. You locksend, to Ekuar, Winnowill: ** She... sends.... ** Adi says "I've a name, Blackhair. It makes a whole lot more sense to call me by it than calling me a Go-Back. There's nothing to go back to." You sense in a locksend, Ekuar reaches for you more deeply... layers of age and power rising to your defense. ** Hold on to me, dear one. Let me help you. ** You locksend, to Ekuar, Winnowill: Rayek's mind, for an instant, slips its gold-sparkled shieldin; Ekuar can catch a glimpse of dark, velvety rest offered, tempting, on the opposite edge of the airwalker's thoughts. Rayek then reaches, unsteadily, for the old one... and the shields go back up. Ekuar takes a slow, lopsided step toward Rayek, his eyes hazy and glimmering with concentration. Another step, and another, until he's standing close to his tall student, their bodies touching. Winnowill locksends ** /Gentle and seductive/ Why resist what you know you need, Rayek? I offer my arts, nothing more. ** Winnowill looks calmly to Rayek, a slight smile on her face. Ekuar locksends ** I'm here. Here with you, my heart's son. Always. ** Rayek jerks his gaze back to Adi, then; voice still short and gruff, he says, "I, too, have a name; it is Rayek. And for one not sent by Kahvi, you do a good job of haranguing me about the High Ones' home; I will tell you what I told Lursa. My promise still stands, that I will return the Palace to your people when I posses the power to move it. I no longer have it." A very slight pained flicker, at the corner of his eyes, though he stares down at the young one without looking away. Adi glances from the brownskin to the tall one in the chair, finally putting it together that they're sending while she's trying to talk to Rayek. She scowls, folding her arms across her chest, "Do you think that I might have a chance to talk to Rayek for a bit, Birdbrain?" Her pointed look directed quite obviously to who she's concluded to be a Glider. Ekuar still stands close to Rayek, but his thin frame relaxes very slightly, and his eyes sharpen their focus. He blinks over to Adi, his bare forehead wrinkling. "Warrior," he says softly, but urgently. "Please. I told you before-- eh-- Rayek is not the one who can do what you want." Adi shifts her gaze back to Rayek, "Well it's just too bad that your promise holds as much wieght as thin ice. At least to the lot of us that never had to put up with you in our Lodge." Winnowill rises to her full regal height, considerably taller than Rayek himself, and moves with two quick steps to gaze quite literally down at the small elf. Rayek gives a terse bark that might almost be a strangled laugh, but his gaze is still hot, hard. "I've been called liar by better elves than you, Adi; you can't anger me with it now. If you've come to try, don't bother. And, Winnowill..." His gaze lifts to her. "I don't care what she just called you; don't harm her, either." Adi seems to think better of gazing up at the tall elf, "Your point? You're tall, I'm supposed to quiver with fear?" Winnowill locksends ** My wrath is not for her, my soul's mate. ** Ekuar grips his staff tightly, his gnarled hand flexing on the wood. "Please," he repeats intently to Adi. "Please, warrior. There's a time for silence. You must have learned as a child not to-- eh-- jump on cracked ice over a pond, hm?" Rayek meets Winnowill's glittering gaze, his own stark. Winnowill locksends to Adi, ** /The send is quite possibly the darkest, most powerful you will ever feel./ Beware, small one. I am not someone to be trifled with. ** to Adi. Winnowill smiles to Rayek, offering her hand to him. Adi hisses at a locksend, struggling to keep her feet beneath her. Her hands instictivly start towards her head but she fights the urge. Swallowing audibly, she murmurs, "Look, Carrion Bird. He took what my tribe's died and killed for for Turns. We... we want it back." No longer containing the pain caused by the send she crumples to the ground. Winnowill locksends ** /Her send is caressive/ My offer still stands. ** Rayek takes in the collapse of Adi, and snaps, "I told you not to harm her. Ekuar -- call PaleMoon, or Rigar." Ekuar lets out a small cry, moving as if to go to the fallen GoBack, then stiffening and remaining warily by Rayek's side. He nods once, pale lips thinned into a tight line. Winnowill blinks as the smaller form crumples. She looks even further down. "My. I had not expected..." She herself leans over, lightly touching the small form. Winnowill locksends ** /The send is softer now, lighter and tingly-warm/ Please, rise... my temper outmoves me at times... ** to Adi. Winnowill sends soft magic towards the smaller elf, watching with dark eyes. Adi flinches at the touch, "Don't.. don't touch me." She winces again at another send, clearly the youth hasn't had much experience with sending. Feeling the magic, she rolls quickly away. Winnowill frowns slightly. "I seek only to heal what my temper has harmed, small one." ---------- [And outside the Scroll Chamber....] Rigar comes up the stairwell from below. Ktai begins to cough slightly, the crying making her ill. Rigar hikes up the stairs, frowning at the coughing "I'll be back out in a moment.. I'm needed inside.. seems a Goback has gone and hurt herself.." Rigar enters the chamber of the Scroll of Colors. Ktai looks stricken at Rigar, and almost flees at the thought. Azeure raises a brow "Oh my," he manages as Rigar passes, he holds you to him though, trying to ease the coughing as he rubs your back gently Ktai coughs again, tears falling still ---------- [In the Scroll Chamber....] Rigar arrives from the corridor outside. Rigar has arrived. Adi glares at the much taller elf, "Keep your cursed magic to yourself. I don't need it, I don't want it." Ekuar glances at Rigar, his eyes wide and dark. Winnowill locksends ** /An attempt at what might seem an apology, but it fails and she remains perplexively dual./ ** Rigar wanders in, glancing about, searchign, ahh yes there is the hurt one, feisty.. hmmm.. Rigar nods to Ekuar, walking towards Adi. Winnowill stands, moving to sit in the chair again. Rayek glances at the others, nodding once, tersely; his gaze then turns to Winnowill anew. Rigar kneels near Adi "Will you allow me?" Adi says "Rather be eaten by a snowbear." Rigar looks over to Ekuar, nodding once ** Quite alright old friend.. there is another I should attend outside. ** Rayek steps closer to the chair, almost stalking it -- placing himself between Winnowill and the others. Winnowill regards Rayek mildly. Rigar rises and heads towards the doorway. Ekuar gives Rigar a smile, gentle and rueful, nodding in return to him. At Rayek's movement, the ancient's gaze is once again fixed on him, wary. Rigar has left. ---------- [Out in the corridor....] Azeure hugs you gently, arching a brow as the healer emerges. Rigar raises a brow "Hmm.. now about that coughing of yours?" Ktai coughs, and wipes angrily at her tears. "Don't touch me!" Terror rings through her voice. Rigar blinks, nodding "Oh my.. seems tonight is not the night for the hurt to appreciate the healing.." Rigar wanders back down the stairs. Rigar vanishes down the stairs. Ktai bursts into fresh tears. Azeure hugs you to his chest, his cheek pressed to yours tenderly "Shhhh my dear sister.. you'll make yourself sick weaping us an ocean.. it does no one any good like this" Ktai sobs, her tears falling hotly and freely down her cheeks. "He's in there... with Her... and I can't help him..." Azeure lifts your chin, his lips soaking up the tears softly "You can be here for him when he comes out.. that is what he will need my dear" Ktai shivers, trying to calm. Her eyes widen, and she pulls back from you slightly in startlement. Azeure's eyes gaze gently into yours "Yours is a most precious gift you can give to him." Ktai looks away. Azeure brings you back to his chest gently "I'm sorry Ktai.. I was only trying to calm you" Ktai shivers again. Azeure hugs you tightly "You know I would not presume.." Ktai just gives out a small choked sound. Eren soulsends ** ** to Rayek. Azeure strokes your hair tenderly as he holds you. Ktai sighs softly Azeure holds you to him almost lovingly, his every intent meerly to soothe, his fingers moving over your back softly. Ktai sighs, still shaking. "Something... something is wrong... I just know it..." Rayek locksends ** Rayek... I love you... ** to Rayek. Ktai winces, crying out. "He's in trouble!" Azeure releases you gently "Then go to him if you must.. but please.. be careful.. and mind carefully around Her.. and what I've told you she will do should she note your presence." Azeure sighs softly, looking terribly worried Ktai stands, gathering herself and moves away, wiping her eyes. Azeure shakes his head "Though I doubt you can do much for him in there.." Youngblood comes up the stairwell from below. Youngblood enters the chamber of the Scroll of Colors. Azeure says "I believe it would be best.. should you be here for him.. when he emerges.. he shall need you." Ktai shakes her head. "I can't feel him! She's got him!" Ktai runs for the other room... ---------- [In the Scroll Chamber....] Adi flinches again and mutters, "Cursed sending, isn't talking enough?" Ekuar takes a shuffling step forward, trying to keep at Rayek's shoulder as best he can. Without turning from staring goldenly at Winnowill, Rayek says curtly, "What words will you accept from me, that you will not consider suspect? I've told you can't I move the Palace; if you don't believe me, that is your own problem, warrior." Rayek's mouth tightens as he speaks. His gaze doesn't move. Winnowill locksends ** /Again, the offer. She is a Healer... and her send caresses./ I am here for you, Rayek... ** Rayek then mutters, lowly, "I do not want you...." Winnowill locksends ** /Her send is still as caressive, and it seems to ripple through you./ Then who do you want, Rayek? ** Ekuar looks from Rayek to Winnowill, and back again, worry etched in the gaunt planes of his face. Adi gets to her feet, rubbing her now very sore skull. "No it's your problem, I don't care how wrapped up you are with that Glider. Just because my elders' have been patient doesn't mean that the rest of us are willing to wait. You either dredge up the power to fly the PAlace back north or give over to someone who can." Adi's harsh young voice distracts Rayek; his head jerks slightly, and his breath catches. In that instant, he seems to wrestle with a strange shiver that courses along him. At last he turns his head enough to say over his shoulder, "I... already have." You sense in a locksend, Ekuar cannot help but touch you again, inquiringly, all his nerves on edge. ** Dear one? Is all well with you? ** Adi says "Every GoBack born without the tug of the Palace on their bones is going to want to know why, and as long as there's someone who remembers your name, Rayek. The Go-Backs are going to want it back." Adi hmmphs, "My elder told me when I was learning how to use a bow, try and try til you get it right. So keep trying." Winnowill locksends ** /Caressing and deeply velvety/ No answer, Rayek? ** Rayek barks out, voice turning strident, "Do you not think I have been flogging myself with the knowledge of my past wrongs, child? Don't bother telling me that which I already know." He turns, then, with an effort, and scowls at Adi. "Know this: I have already turned over guardianship of the Palace to Tilia, one of your own tribe, who has gone to seek Leetah; I have pledged her I will not move it till she returns, even assuming that I _could_, because I have not done it once under my own power since it vanished into the distant past!" Eren soulsends ** ** Winnowill stands, moving to take Rayek into her arms, sending to him. Ekuar says huskily, distractedly, eyes fixed on his darkskinned pupil, "Warrior... I've already told you who will be more likely to-- eh-- be able to grant your request. One of yours, named Tilia. And last I heard of her, child, she was in... Sorrow's End. Listen, and believe, because it is the truth." Winnowill locksends ** /Soothing and darkly caressive to your soul/ Rayek... be at ease... let me aid you... ** Rayek's voice roughens, turns huskier, and his eyes glimmer with a molten, liquid light... that is immediately veiled as his eyes clamp shut, the moment Winnowill comes up behind him. Winnowill folds her arms about Rayek, moving him closer before actually trying to touch him. Ekuar's delicate jaw settles into a hard line, his gentle eyes darkening. Rayek, startled, is coaxed back a step before his attention snaps back to the tall healer. Winnowill locksends ** /Softly/ Let me aid you...? ** Ekuar locksends ** Brownskin... my spirit's son. Hold on to me. <> I won't let you be tugged to pieces. ** You locksend ** Rayek... I love you... ** By the time Rayek realizes, belatedly, that he has forgotten to shield himself, Winnowill's white hands have already gently grasped him. She can fel, beneath his skin, flesh gone as unyielding as the stuff of the floor on which he stands. Adi scowls, "I don't care who you gave over the Palace to!" Jabbing a small finger towards Rayek, she continues, "You took it away from us. You're the one that's had mastery of it since my tribe spilled it's blood to get to it. You're the one that made an empty promise to Lursa and if it take the Great Ice Wall metling, you're going to return it. This Tilia person can just go toss herself to the trolls because any Go-Back would've tried to get it back north by now!." Winnowill's hands do indeed feel, and soft healing magic begins to flow almost as soon as she has touched him. Youngblood arrives from the corridor outside. Youngblood has arrived. Rayek, if he hears Adi's next tirade, gives no sign of it. Transfixed, he stares up at the tranquil face before him, his own filled with a tangle of emotions. Youngblood strides into the Chamber, and stops at the door. Winnowill locksends ** /The send flows along the healing, compelling and seductive./ My soul's mate... it has been so long... ** Adi switches the direction of the finger pointing to Ekuar, "And you can just go shape a hole with your 'young warrior' dung and curl up in it for another half dozen years because you don't seem to care that your daughter's fighting to keep Go-Back lands safe for the Palace's return." Ktai arrives from the corridor outside. Ktai has arrived. Youngblood glances at Adi, almost calmed by the sight of a screaming, angry goback. Some things never change. Ktai nearly flies in, her eyes dark and cheeks tear-stained. You sense in a locksend, Ekuar sends again, more urgently. ** Brownskin, answer me. Answer me, or I shall pull you from here. If that's what it takes. ** Winnowill caresses Rayek as she holds him, healing him, soothing him. Her face is calm, and as smooth as glass. Rayek, standing before the chair with Winnowill's arms draped almost casually around him, sees neither Youngblood nor Ktai enter; as her hands play across him, he blinks, eyes glazed by the light playing across his frame, struggle etching itself in his fingers. You locksend ** E... Ekuar... ** to Ekuar. Adi is in a fine state of rage despite the worst sending induced headache she's had in her young and rapidly shortening life. She swings her gaze back to Rayek and the tall Glider healer. Snarling, she glares at the two. Youngblood's frown deepens at the sight of Winnowill in close proximity, intimate one might say, to Rayek. He eyes her distrustfully. Ktai nearly screams, and gliding finally, streaks to Rayek and tries to pull him free of Winnowill's grasp. Adi growls, "Hey Birdbrain, you think you can hold off your little pleasure games til you're alone with the blackhair. I'm not done yelling at him." Winnowill is unprepared for a physical attack, and so doesn't notice Ktai until Rayek is suddenly no longer in her touch. You locksend to Winnowill, Rayek's mind still bears its shielding, but his body does not, and as your magic courses slowly down through him, he shudders. He hadn't forgotten... then, suddenly, he is gone. Eren soulsends ** Rayek! ** Winnowill blinks, then looks to Ktai and Rayek, having not heard the smaller one. A slight frown crosses her face, and she fixes a dark gaze on Ktai. Youngblood moves closer, slowly, to the pair, creeping as quietly as he can, one hand on his dagger. Rayek stumbles, as Ktai tugs him away, then lifts a hand to his head. Winnowill locksends, to Ktai, ** I warned you, Ktai. Your petty trifling has gone far enough. Rayek needs aid, and the more you stand in my way, the more he is at danger. Remember that. ** Winnowill abruptly sweeps out of the room. Winnowill has left. Youngblood sends openly ** THAT was a close one. ** Ktai pulls Rayek to her, her eyes searching Rayek. Adi crouches down, fingers closing around the hilt of a dagger that peeks out over the top of her boot. Watching the Glider's exit, she flinches at the open send. Youngblood glances towards Ekuar. ** What happened, old one? ** Rayek's face sheens over in sweat, and his eyes drop shut. Breathless, he allows Ktai to embrace him, now; his shaking arms grip her back. Ktai hugs Rayek closely. Eren soulsends ** Oh Rayek... I'm so sorry... he wouldn't let me go... I should have been here... ** Youngblood sidles over to Adi and glances at her, "Hey you. What happened?" Adi slips the dagger back into it's sheath and rises to her full, if a little on the small side, height. She gazes cooly at the questioning elf, not saying anything. Youngblood heaves a sigh impatiently at Adi's response, and turns his back on her, muttering something to himself about stubborn, stupid gobacks. Rayek finally groans out thickly, "What... happened, Wolfrider, is that this Go-Back... distracted me; Winnowill... gave me... healing, before I could stop her..." Ktai looks to Ekuar quickly and pulls Rayek close. "Rayek... come... let us get away from here. You need some time to recouperate..." Youngblood turns, giving Rayek his full, frowning attention, "It's a good thing for you that Ktai showed up, then. You still think she should be allowed free run? After this incident?" He snorts to himself, "Dangerous, she is!" Ktai locksends ** Let us go to the small cave... where I found you? She cannot know where that is... at least to get some sleep... ** Adi snorts, "Sure make her feel as welcome here as a Go-Back. That'll make her happy." Rayek snaps his gaze up to Youngblood, saying hoarsely, "_No_ elf should be barred from the Palace -- _none_! I don't care if they are _She_!" The words come out of him stridently, and his voice nearly cracks. Ktai gently guides Rayek. "Regardless, Rayek. Come..." Rayek then snaps to Adi, "If you want to make yourself useful -- if you want, as you have claimed with your superlative timing, to do as your tribe did before and guard this place, then as you value it, _guard_. Don't let her in here alone." Youngblood glances at Adi, "I'm not concerned with making her feel welcome, she is dangerous! If she must be let in here, she ought to be watched." Ktai looks up with steady eyes. "I know her from old. She has destroyed all I have ever held dear save Rayek. She will destroy him, or die trying." Rayek then, as Ekuar hastens up to his other side, nodding grimly to Ktai around the airwalker, allows himself to be led unsteadily out of the chamber. Adi says "I'll do as my tribe did before and _will_ do again, Rayek. I'll guard." Ktai shivers at a thought. "And we do not want her dead... come, Rayek..." Second Level [Desc deleted.] Obvious exits: Scroll Chamber Winding Stairway Ktai has arrived. Ktai holds you gently, supporting if needed. Ktai says "To the cave, Rayek?" [With that, as once more Rayek staggers off to seek sorely need rest, we end the log.]