From: Mosquito [jrorr@exis.net] Sent: Thursday, July 09, 1998 11:44 AM To: dewshine@murkworks.net Subject: Hypnotized (log) Log Cast: Lrilanya (logger/editor), Naeblis, Meyika, Dusk (contributer) Log Date: 7/3/98 Log Note: It starts out with a quiet moment with Lrilanya and Naeblis, but when Snee gets mentioned, things slowly start to twist around.. Additional Note: This log has been updated to include some locksending between Dusk and Meyika. Those poses will be preceded with [DM]. The point of view is Dusk's. You travel through the passage, following its twists and curves till you arrive at... Glittering Cavern As you enter this huge cavern, you almost gasp at it's sheer beauty. The walls glitter from light reflected by countless gems embedded in them. They seem to dance like thousands of fireflies across a huge field, and every color of the spectrum is represented. Added to the incredible vista is a veritable symphony of the Underworld, as tiny droplets of water fall into small pools and their sound is echoed through the whole cavern. There are several stools that look like they were grown out of the living rock, and a small hot spring lies in the center of the cavern. The many crystals here reflect and amplify all light so that it is esay for even a surface dweller to see the cavern. Contents: Hot spring Obvious exits: East(E) South(S) Naeblis emerges from the passage to the east. Naeblis has arrived. Naeblis nods. ** Darkness to you, Lrilanya... ** Lrilanya is seated, knees and legs arranged beneath and in front of her, on a bench positioned near the hot spring, her outermost robe removed in the closeness of the heat to be folded in her lap. At the sending she looks up and inclines her head. ** Clear tunnels, Naeblis. ** Naeblis looks slowly around the cavern, enjoying the glitter of his home. ** You enjoy the heat? ** ** It is.. relaxing, ** Lrilanya replies, her voice faint and thin. ** The tunnels are yet otherwise damp and cold when apart from the lava caverns. ** It is enjoyable to absorb what heat I can gather from here. ** Naeblis seems not to smile at this. ** Would you prefer the touch of the daystar? I am certain you would gather the heat you need that way... ** He smiles, turning the statement into a witty joke, and nothing more... The humor is acknowledged and is gifted with the rare ripple of amusement, though dry, as Lrilanya releases it. ** Somehow I doubt that I would be able to stand that much heat and enjoy it. ** Naeblis smiles idly. ** You are probably correct... I don't remember it very fondly myself. ** ** Very few of our kind would, I'd imagine, ** Lrilanya answers, a faint smile lingering on her lips as she turns her head back to regard the spring. Naeblis smiles for a moment. ** Why do you not go to the beach, instead of here? The sand is soft, and it is warm there as well... ** Lrilanya sends openly ** I have found in recent times it is far difficult for me to complete the walk there. It is far from my Cavern and I tire.. ** Naeblis nods. ** That is unfortunate. I enjoy the beach, even when I am not practicing my bladesmanship there. ** Naeblis looks at Lrilanya. ** If you wish, I can escort you there. ** ** You use a blade? ** Lrilanya queries, her interest touched. At his offer, though, she quiets, turning around to return his gaze thoughtfully, then inclines her head in a slight nod. ** Yes, I would.. like that, Naeblis. ** Naeblis reaches his hand out to help Lrilanya up. ** Yes, I do use a blade. ** He gestures slightly to the one at his belt. ** I am not very skilled, but I do use it. ** Lrilanya ponders, then moves to accept the hand, bone-thin fingers wrapping about his in a gentle grip as her other hand folds the discarded outer-robe over her arm. ** My sister knew the blade.. cousin Kytek taught her its uses. ** Gentle grief, faded and gentled with time, touches her sending. ** After her death it was given to me. Perhaps one day when your skills are refined you might teach me how to wield it. ** Naeblis smiles, his send tinged heavily with amusement. ** You may wait years... ** He frowns. ** I have found no time to practice with Kytek, to my chagrin. I have been forced to seek a teacher in another House. ** He pulls Lrilanya to her feet easily, his rail-thin body disguising its strength. Lrilanya's grip tightens, briefly, when her stance falters beneath her weight, but she corrects it with fluid ease. ** Cousin Kytek has been missing as of late, not long after Mistress Shanath's death. The Garado loses strength, it seems.. only one in the Council.. ** Her lips purse thoughtfully, then she turns her head to regard Naeblis curiously, her skirts rustling slightly as she moves around the bench. ** Which House is this you speak of? ** Naeblis's face straightens. "Anado." Dim surprise sparks in Lrilanya's eyes. ** You speak of Zelgadis. ** Naeblis nods, but says nothing in reply. ** I had my first lesson the other day. I learned how far over my head my home can be, if I am not careful. ** Lrilanya makes a soft 'ahh'ing sound as she starts to move forward, though glancing to Naeblis through the corners of her eyes to guide. It has been long since she stepped foot upon those beaches and her memory has faded. ** I am sure he is an.. interesting teacher. ** Naeblis smiles, and remembers his first lesson. ** I will learn much from him. ** Naeblis leads Lrilanya into the River Cavern. Naeblis goes through the eastern passage. Naeblis has left. You go through a twisting rock passage to the east... River Cavern(#2158RAJLa) This cavern is even larger than the Glittering Cavern. it is kept alight by phospherecense and some odd fungi that casts a green glimmer over the area. In the center of the cavern is a river, actually just a large stream, that is crossed by several bridges of rock. Pillars of natural stone support the high ceiling, and between them, on can see the entrances to various dwellings for many of the tribe. Stalactites and stalagmites rise to embrace, though some have been shaped into furniture. The river winds from an impassable opening to the north, southwards to a cliff. Next to the river, between two of the bridges is a low wall made of stone, which has been lade together not shaped. A large chasm has opened up in a large section of the floor of the cavern. To see a list of caves type '+view caves'. Obvious exits: West (W) Downstream (S) Upstream (N) Northeast (NE) Contents: Naeblis Obvious exits: Chasm Lrilanya sends openly ** I am certain you will. ** Her footsteps are light and silent, yet she follows him without fail. For now. ** He is skilled, from what I have percieved of him. ** Naeblis nods. ** So I have heard. ** Naeblis continues on, not tugging, merely guiding. Naeblis heads towards Upstream (N) Naeblis has left. You head towards the Underground Forest. Underground Forest(#4119RL) A large cavern opens up, revealing a veritable forest of mushrooms which are tended by trolls. The trolls are watch over by other 'loyal' trolls and various Underworld Elves. There are rock-shaped irrigation canals leading to the rows of mushrooms, to provide the necessary moisture for the mushrooms to grow. The mushrooms are MUCH larger than the ones that grow in the forests of the above world, as they are being raised VERY carefully. In fact, just ONE of the mushrooms looks like it could feed 2 to 4 elves by itself. As you glance around, you notice that the walls of this cavern are a little too smooth, and if you have MagicFeeling, it will tell you that this whole cavern was shaped by powerful Rockshapers. <'+view caves' to see entrances> Obvious exits: Downstream (S) Upstream (N) Northwest (NW) Contents: Naeblis Naeblis sends openly ** My first lesson was... A little unsettling. ** Lrilanya's movements start to slow at this point and she falls quiet, her grasp weaker. Yet she is not empty of reply, nor disappointing a conversationalist as she queries, ** Oh? ** Naeblis leans in a little, gathering some of Lrilanya's weight to himself. ** Yes... And I am not the only on who found it... enlightening. ** Naeblis heads towards Upstream (N) Naeblis has left. You head towards the River Tunnel. River Tunnel The underground river flows through here, cutting a tunnel out that is wide enough for three elves to stand heads off to the east. side by side(if they could in the water easily). Along one side of the river is a small bank, which can allow a single-file chain of elves to walk to a path leading further north. The river itself bends and heads off to the east. Obvious exits: Downstream (S) Lava Tunnel (N) Contents: Naeblis Naeblis continues. ** Meyika, of our House, was a witness to this first lesson, and she approved, or so it seemed... ** Naeblis has partially disconnected. Lrilanya seems thankful for the support, though she does not show it in her face. ** You were not alone then. ** It is a query, though not stated like one. Her 'voice' has become slightly fainter, but strengthens with amusement. ** Ahh. What happened in the lesson? ** Naeblis smiles. ** Zelgadis and I were standing in the river cavern, with Meyika seated on a bench, nearby. Rei... of the Juraido, I believe, was standing behind Zelgadis, merely watching the conversation unfold. ** ** Rei.. ** Lrilanya echoes with a faint smile. ** There are rumors.. about she and Zelgadis.. but go on. ** Naeblis continues. ** More than rumors, I say. But I digress... Zelgadis asked me... 'If I were to attack you now, Naeblis... Would you expect it? ** Lrilanya's eyebrows arch; nothing more, nothing less. Naeblis looks at Lrilanya a moment, and then speaks again. ** I thought it was a test, and stepped away from the pillar I was near, to gain space. I replied: 'Before? No... Now? I am not certain... ** Naeblis takes Lrilanya's hand again, and continues along the river. Naeblis heads towards Lava Tunnel (N) Naeblis has left. You head towards the Lava Tunnel. Lava Tunnel As you travel along, you notice that the tunnel is getting warmer..The walls here are blackened, as though they were burned repeatedly in the past. There is no sense of magic in this area, so this is all natural. The tunnel continues on for a bit, and then comes to an abrupt end, where one can see light from the 'above' world which occasionally shines down to softly light up this tunnel. Obvious exits: River Tunnel (S) Dormant Volcano (N) Maerfaydo Cavern (MC) Contents: Naeblis Lrilanya listens, interest keen on her face. Her steps are slower in before, yet steady still with the assistance. ** And did he? ** Naeblis smiles, and pauses, as though lost in the thought. ** He threw his cloak back, and drew, surprising me, a little, I will admit. As I stepped aside, and began to draw my own, his sword continued up, over his head. ** The send seems distracted, as though Naeblis were reliving it... ** I whisked my sword up to defend myself, but as he drew, he turned /away/ from me, and brought the sword down at /Rei/. ** Lrilanya's blue eyes, not quite so hollow anymore, watch Naeblis's face, her expression expectant and curious. Her steps falter slightly and she inhales sharply, but straightens at the latter send, gaze returning to him sharply from the floor. She blinks slowly. ** On the Juraido? ** Naeblis nods, absently. ** She swept her crystal flute aside, and drew a sword from beneath her own cloak, thrown up perfectly to meet his. He held it there, for a moment, with the obvious ability to send it crashing down into her skull, and then withdrew. 'Never be certain', he said to me, 'That is the first lesson.' ** Naeblis leads on, slowly now. Naeblis moves towards the Dormant Volcano. Naeblis has left. You head for the Dormant Volcano. In the cave You are standing inside the cave..The whole area in here is warm, but not hot..And is blackened from previous explosions. In the middle of this huge area is a glittering lake, which is surrounded by black soot which serves as sand. There are various plants which thrive here on the warmth and the tiny amounts of light that reach this far down. At the exit from the cavern to the outside world is a large metal gate, with double doors. A large bar seals the gate closed to the outside world. Shaped next to the gate is a post for the guard of the gate. The gate itself has been shaped out of metal and is covered with delicate filigree work. There are no marks, hinting that any tool was used in its making, scarring its surface, but radiates strongly of magic, announcing, to those with the magic to do so, the real manner in which the maker used to construct the gate. Contents: Naeblis Obvious exits: Beach Gate Naeblis looks at Lrilanya. Naeblis looks at you. ** How.. ** Lrilanya blinks slowly, stepping carefully upon the blackened ground. ** ..strange of him. Yet.. ** She cannot help but be amused, a soft, ragged chuckle escaping. ** Perhaps their feud is not as mended as they would like others to believe. Yet.. still strange.. ** Her footsteps falter once as her weak muscles give away briefly and her sending cuts abruptly. [Lrilanya] Resembling her sister in everything save height and build, Lrilanya seems to be the very definition of pale. Her face is the shape of an elongated heart, her eyes large and bright, the color of ice with the faintest touch of blue. Her skin is moonlight pale, with white strands of hair serving as a silky frame that pulls back from her face save two wispy curls, the rest bound in a headdress made of gray metal beaten into intricate patterns that mimic the winding of vines. She is taller than her sister was, and an inch or so taller than many other Underworlders, yet the most striking thing about her appearance is her build. It cannot be described as thin or slender; she is skinny and deathly so. Her cheekbones jut out and her eyes seem sunken when her mood permits it. Her fragile form is clothed in white robes, the first impossibly tight so that it appears to be choking her. Only the skirt is free enough to allow her legs movement, and she moves as fluidly as any other. The light touches of blue in the fabric are enough to highlight her rib cage - so thin is she that each and every rib could be counted - and her collarbone. She wears a second robe over it, a darker blue that is lighter in material and looser in its hold on her, and a third robe still, this one kept open like a long overcoat, its sleeves falling past her slender hands. Her hands are hidden in white gloves, their fingertips smudged slightly with dirt. For all her apparent frailness, Lrilanya possesses a sort of inner strength that betrays it all. Her lips are thin and her voice is quiet when spoken; her sending, in contrast, is sharp and defined. Often, there is an aura of emotion about her, yet very few can tell what sort of emotion that might be. [Naeblis] Your eyes slide off of the elf almost immediately, as though focusing on his form requires effort greater than watching another. Naeblis, so gaunt his face appears nearly skeletal, seems to be drowning inside his simple mottled grey tunic, as though it were tailored to someone a bit bigger than he. His deep chestnut locks, pulled back in multiple braids, and held behind his head by simple rings of polished bronze, appear to accentuate this effect, making his deep, watery blue eyes seem as though they are out of place in such a setting. His ears, sharply pointed, and with the stark paleness of his high forehead, just add to the illusion that he hasn't eaten in weeks. Soft, supple leather boots adorn his feet, and sable colored pants, mottled throughout with lighter shades of grey, are tucked into them. From the waistcord over his right hip dangles a scabbard with a slim handled short sword made of crysmetal, whose hilt appears to have been carved by hand, with great care. A dagger is strapped about his left wrist, and while they seem to be well cared for, both appear to have been used only very rarely. Two small pouches also dangle from the cord, one looking quite heavy, and the other seemingly empty, and a small bronze medallion dangles around his neck, imprinted with the insignia of House Garado in silver relief. Naeblis reaches out to catch Lrilanya, bearing her back to her feet. ** Yes.. I was shocked... ** Naeblis sends openly ** I had not expected it, and Zelgadis and Rei both had their blades away before I, as I watched them, tensed and waiting for an attack that was never meant for me. ** Naeblis smiles a little, ** Meyika was delighted by this, and seemed to take it as amusement of the highest quality. ** Lrilanya's send flickers in wordless thanks, awkwardly reasserting herself on her feet again. ** I do not blame her, I am afraid, ** she sends, eyebrows arched as she makes sure that she is steady. ** It is.. was an.. interesting twist of events. ** Naeblis helps Lrilanya take those last few steps to the edge of the water. Naeblis heads towards Beach Naeblis has left. You head towards the Beach. Beach This beach is made of a sand-soot combination which is soft and silky to the touch. The sand mixture is perpetually warm, due to the lava flow under the surface of the volcano. The water of the lake laps at the edge of the beach, beckoning those here to enter the crystal clear water. There is a comforting feeling about laying here on the sand..Perhaps it is because this is all natural. Contents: Naeblis Obvious exits: Cave Naeblis assists you in sitting upon the sands. Lrilanya's breathing, despite Naeblis's attempts, is still faint shallow; only until she half-sits, half-crumples on to the sands with the younger Garado's assistance does she not seem quite so exhausted by such a minor trip. ** Thank you. ** Naeblis shakes his head. ** For those of my House? I am honored to be of service. ** Naeblis unfastens the scabbard from his belt, and sits in the sand with the blade over his crossed legs. Lrilanya's thin lips turn in a smile, withdrawing her hand back to take the robe folded over her arm, refold it, and set it beside her. Her gaze shifts to regard the waters, watching them as if fascinated. ** It has been long since I last came here. ** Naeblis smiles, ** I am glad to have brought you such pleasure. It is rare that my actions bless my House so. ** Naeblis looks across the waters himself, as though not focusing on anything at all. Naeblis looks at Lrilanya, taking in the silent one. ** The beaches have a calming influence on many. ** Lrilanya pauses, a gloved hand sifting through the yellowy, silky sands idly. Among dirt and rock, the sand is an.. interesting.. change, not wholly unpleasant. ** I do not think that you are as unwanted to the House Garado as you make yourself out to be. ** Naeblis frowns, and sounds edgy. ** That belief will not stop a dagger in the night, or poison in my meals. ** He takes a delicate stone mask from his pocket. ** This mask, this is our people. ** The mask is colored black on one half, and white on the other. The black half is twisted into a hateful, malevolent grimace. The white half is smooth, tranquil, and peaceful. Naeblis sends openly ** We have the tendancy to project things as we want them to appear, and the truth under the surface is infinitely worse. ** Naeblis looks at Lrilanya's face, trying to acertain her reaction. Lrilanya's hand lifts from the sand, some of the grains still remaining behind in a yellow residue. ** We can be both spiteful and kind, cruel and caring. ** She intreprets the mask differently and falls quietly when Naeblis offers his thoughts, then inclines her head slightly to regard him through partially closed eyes, her sending idle as her strength slowly regains with the rest and calm provided by the beach's atmosphere. ** Or vice versa. Things are not always what they seem. ** Naeblis smiles a little at this. ** Perhaps. We have had millenia to practice our deceit. I wonder if we have become so proficient, we no longer can see the light of reason. ** He puts his surface mask back into the pouch with his gloves. ** What is reason except the way those higher wish you to think is the correct path of choice? What is doubt except when you wonder at the accuracy of the path you are wished to take? ** Lrilanya's send-voice is melodic, mournfully so, and almost as if recited. She has led a long, dreadfully long life and has had such time to consider these things. ** It simply depends on your point of view. ** Naeblis nods, unable to draw upon the same quantity of experince, and unable to reply with any wit. Lrilanya offers a rare smile that reaches her eyes, though her eyes offer nothing safe a pale reflection of that selfsame smile. ** You are young yet, are you not? You will understand. For you, I think, it is easier to simply understand that which you know. ** Naeblis sends openly ** Does that mean you think us unable to choose our own path? Our reason being merely the visible segments of a shadowy machination ingrained in our lives? ** ** On the contrary. ** Lrilanya dips her hand into the sand, letting it puddle over her slender, gloved palm, then lifting her hand to let the sand sift through her fingers. ** We are quite capable of choosing our own path. It is simply a matter of wishing to. ** Naeblis nods. ** Explain to me then, if you will... These caverns were not built in a day, and neither will I be, but one more brick makes the process more complete. Lrilanya sends openly ** Not in a day, though they could be, if one wished, yet.. When time passes swiftly it is easier to live it, understand it, and make it interesting. Choice is so much more free in that regard and more easily accepted. Yet when time seems to stretch, becomes longer and the choices of things to do becomes smaller.. it is easier to simply have someone choose the path for you rather than rebel and risk stagnation when you choose the same path as before. ** Naeblis smiles. ** Then we are all doomed, because there are not an infinite number of things we may choose. ** Lrilanya's own smile is offered in return, but it is dark and humorless. ** And that is why immortality is such a sham. ** Naeblis shakes his head. ** Better to push hard, and die young, then. ** The blade in his lap shifts, but Naeblis sems not to notice. ** Perhaps. ** What Naeblis does not appear to notice Lrilanya does and she acknowledges it with a subtle arch of her eyebrows. ** That it is why, I would assume, that the Upworlders are so ignorantly blissful in their pathetically short span of life. ** Naeblis smiles again, noting a chink. ** But you say easier... Easier to let someone guide you. Not better... Just easier... ** Naeblis sends openly ** If we choose only the easy, do we not become weak? ** Lrilanya's sending is appropriately amused, yet tingles of approval as well. ** I never said it was better, Naeblis. It is indeed easier and I would imagine that it would be our eventual downfall. ** Naeblis nods. Naeblis places a hand on the scabbard, and slides four inches of the bright blade from their cover, the crystals shaped into the edge glistening in the crysmetal. Naeblis looks into the blade, seeing a dull glimmer of himself reflected back. Lrilanya's shoulders shrug lightly and she reclines backwards a bit, hands moving behind her to support her slight form. At the sight of the light dancing off the edges of the crysmetal her gaze shifts to regard it with bland interest. Naeblis slams the sword back home, and fairly whirls to Lrilanya. ** Why then do we not work harder, faster, to escape these tunnels, and spread ourselves thin in enjoyment of the things we can not get here? Are we not then, deceiving ourselves, as I have said, and you agree, that our immortality makes us better? ** Lrilanya regards Naeblis mildly, her blue eyes flickering darkly. ** I do not have the answers to your questions, Naeblis. Some things escape even me. ** Naeblis nods. ** I seek to learn all I can, not just of the blade, but of the master who would wield it, as well. ** He frowns. ** Sometimes, I am not certain I understand why we bother at all, even in the beginning. ** ** Because it interests us and boredom is not something of pleasant experience. ** A pause, then Lrilanya starts to rise to her feet, reaching for the folded robe. ** I must return to my chambers. There is a matter there that I must attend to. ** Naeblis leaps quickly to his feet, and fastens the blade back into its rightful place. ** I am sorry, I have kept you over long. ** Naeblis reaches out his hand again, offering his support, if it is needed. And Lrilanya's hand reaches to clasp his. ** You have not kept me overly long. I.. enjoyed this. I had simply forgotten about Kellynn. ** Naeblis begins the walk back, his send tinted with curiosity. ** Kellynn? ** Naeblis heads towards Cave Naeblis has left. You head towards the In the cave. In the cave You are standing inside the cave..The whole area in here is warm, but not hot..And is blackened from previous explosions. In the middle of this huge area is a glittering lake, which is surrounded by black soot which serves as sand. There are various plants which thrive here on the warmth and the tiny amounts of light that reach this far down. At the exit from the cavern to the outside world is a large metal gate, with double doors. A large bar seals the gate closed to the outside world. Shaped next to the gate is a post for the guard of the gate. The gate itself has been shaped out of metal and is covered with delicate filigree work. There are no marks, hinting that any tool was used in its making, scarring its surface, but radiates strongly of magic, announcing, to those with the magic to do so, the real manner in which the maker used to construct the gate. Contents: Naeblis Obvious exits: Beach Gate ** A young maiden I recently came into guardianship of, ** Lrilanya answers simply, her footsteps firm and steady as when they started the trek to the beach. ** She prefers the name Dusk though. ** Naeblis disappears from sight, seeming to meld with the wall. Naeblis has left. You step through the gate, heading to the outside world, once it is opened up for you. You locksend, to Meyika, Dusk: Lrilanya's mind reaches out idly to touch yours. Each might sense the presence of another recieving her sending, yet neither would recognize the other. ** Kellynn. Meyika. Are you awake? ** You sense in a locksend, Meyika sends with notable curiosity, especially an unspoken reference to one you call Kellynn, with whom Meyika is unfamiliar. Finally, she answers your question with a single word. ** Quite. ** [Lrilanya and Naeblis continue through the Underworld. Along the way, Lrilanya stops a moment to speak with a troll servant who runs ahead of the pair in the direction of Lrilanya's chambers.] Glittering Cavern As you enter this huge cavern, you almost gasp at it's sheer beauty. The walls glitter from light reflected by countless gems embedded in them. They seem to dance like thousands of fireflies across a huge field, and every color of the spectrum is represented. Added to the incredible vista is a veritable symphony of the Underworld, as tiny droplets of water fall into small pools and their sound is echoed through the whole cavern. There are several stools that look like they were grown out of the living rock, and a small hot spring lies in the center of the cavern. The many crystals here reflect and amplify all light so that it is esay for even a surface dweller to see the cavern. Contents: Naeblis Meyika Hot spring Obvious exits: East(E) South(S) Naeblis sends openly ** Darkness to you, Meyika. ** Lrilanya moves with Naeblis, hand linked in his for support. She looks weary, but her expression is darkened with concentration, only.. She blinks thrice at the sending, eyes searching out the Cavern. . o O (...) You locksend ** ((lingering weariness)) I have a favor to request of you concerning the little gray-eyed troll of the Juraido and another that has come under my care. ** to Meyika. Naeblis helps Lrilanya to a bench near the spring. Where only a moment ago she had been studing her own reflection in one of the crystal faces, Meyika now stands straight, eyes immediately drawn to the two. ** Clear Tunnels to you both. ** Where she may greet others with emptiness in those words, being family, you two can indeed sense a bit of friendliness. Meyika arches a brow for a moment, in two kinds of curiosity. ** Is everything alright, Lrilanya? ** She inquires toward the need for Naeblis's assistance. Lrilanya allows Naeblis to assist her in retaking her seat in before, sending wordless thanks before turning her gaze on Meyika. She offers mildly, ** Naeblis and I visited the beaches in the farther tunnels. The effort of walking so far is.. tiring. ** Meyika utters a sent. ** Ah, I see. ** Naeblis nods. ** I will take leave now... My blade practice must go on as always. ** You sense in a locksend, Meyika chooses to continue in private sending, until Naeblis has gone. ** A favor you say? ** Lrilanya's head inclines to Naeblis. ** Offer Zelgadis my greetings next you see him, my friend. ** Meyika nods, lips forming a small smile. ** Of course. ** You locksend ** Yes. ((She pauses briefly.)) There are rumors that you can grown into.. some form of magic? ** to Meyika. ** Of course Lrilanya... ** He pauses, as if to add something, and then sends, **Clear Tunnels, to you both... ** Naeblis nods, and strides back into the dark caverns, cloak trailing out behind him. Naeblis goes through the eastern passage. Naeblis has left. Lrilanya's head inclines once more, briefly now. ** Darkness to you, ** she sends mildly in belated farewell, then turns her head to regard Meyika. Meyika nods to Naeblis, ** Clear Tunnels. ** She begins to walk toward the bench Lrilanya occupies, but stops suddenly as she recieves the send, eyeing her cousin with what almost appears to be a hint of suspicion, but for what reason is unknown. Of course, she clears her send of anything unusual. ** That is true, and perhaps the only thing I will ever have to be grateful of the troll for.. ** You locksend ** ((Again, she touches you again, but this time louder, though still gently.)) Are you asleep, little furry one? ** to Dusk. ** Oh? ** Lrilanya's sending is otherwise wordless query, yet she does not yet seem expectant of an answer. Perhaps a tale for another time unless her Mistress cousin wishes to tell it now. ** I have a little furry Upworlder in my chambers.. Kellynn she shall be called now. ** She says nothing of the name that 'Kellynn' wants to be called by. ** She is in need of being.. how you say.. persuaded into realizing her usefullness to me in some regards. ** Dusk locksends ** ((She begins to stir gently, a general weariness over her)) Huh..? ** Lrilanya's eyes spark briefly. Sending? You locksend ** I have need of you, little one. A troll will be with you shortly to guide you to my location. Please make it an easy task and do not struggle with him. ** to Dusk. And at once that inkling of suspicion fades as quickly as it was mustered. In a gesture, Meyika asks if she, too, may sit on the bench, as not to remain standing over her cousin. Her countenance has improved, brightened even. ** Ah, I see. ** Dusk locksends ** I don't want to go with any trolls, anywhere.. ((Mind still fuzzy)) What's going on? ** Lrilanya seems distracted for a moment, gaze faroff until Meyika gestures to take a seat. Nodding her assent, she sends, ** I took the liberty of asking a troll to hurry ahead to my chambers while Naeblis and I were returning.. Kellynn should be here shortly. ** Her fingers interlace and fold into her lap. ** I want that troll dead, but killing is such a.. dirty business. And the Upworlders often seem quite capable of doing it with little regard to themselves. ** You locksend ** Nothing painful, I assure you. ((In the darkness, a troll appears, burly and large, yet regarding you with a wariness masked by its brute strength. It grunts a command for you to accompany it and waits for you comply, yellow eyes watching you predatorily.)) Please come to me. ** to Dusk. Dusk locksends ** ((Her senses of smell and hearing tell her of the troll's arrival, and she tells it to "Go away..leave me alone." She growls faintly, figuring it may convince the troll to think twice before coming any closer.)) No..I know you just want to do something.. ** Meyika places herself softly on the bench, taking enormous care not to crowd her cousin, but nonetheless making herself comfortable. ** Truly. Am I right in assuming this troll is the one with the gray eyes? The fluteplayer's little pet? ** You locksend ** ((There is silence from Lrilanya's end now; her order stands. You will come to her. And the troll, leading little else, draws a hand back and whips it around in a back-hand to slap the wolfling senseless if it connects. "She says come /now/!")) ** to Dusk. ** You are correct. ** A thin smile plays across Lrilanya's eyes as the invisible diamond of sending fades, her attention focusing intently on the matters at hand. ** Zelgadis failed to complete his end of the bargain; indeed, he seems to have befriended that silent little maiden. He is a problem and its so much easier to place the Upworlder in that position. If she fails.. ** A light shrug is given, for Lrilanya truly cares little for Dusk/Kellynn's welfare. ** She is Upworlder. She is.. expendable. ** >From afar, Dusk's eyes do her little good, and in the darkness, the troll's backhand smacks into her cheek, sending her sprawling down to the ground, a suddenly bright flash that comes when you get hit hard. "Uhhnn.." she groans, rubbing the side of her face. Those trolls can hit. You paged Dusk with 'The moment the blow connects the troll's other hand is darting out to grab her roughly and pull her to her feet. "Come with me now, ma'am," comes the gravelly voice just before the troll servant quite simply starts to drag the rust-furred maiden out of the Cavern and to Lrilanya.'. >From afar, Dusk shakes her head a few times, holding that hand to her head, and she grunts when the troll jerks her to her feet and starts pulling her along. Her feet decide to comply, and help her along. . o O (...) Meyika nods, for the most part in agreement, most Upworlders *are* expendable. With a smile, she comments ** I've my suspicions that more is going on between Rei and Zelgadis than we know, but who's to say. ** Her hands fold, and the Mistress grows more thoughtful. ** I think it can be done. ** As if on cue, a surly looking troll moves in, tugging along a dazed Dusk. Lrilanya's eyes glitter with pleased glee. ** Splendid, ** her sending purrs, then echoes it to herself, ** Simply splendid.. ** as her gaze drifts to the troll and rust-furred elf. Meyika, seated beside Lrilanya on one of the many benches dotting the cavern, glances across, rather stares, for a moment. Then, wryly, regarding only Lrilanya, ** I did not realize you were speaking literally when you said 'furry'. ** Dusk's eyes are narrowed as she is brought in by the troll. The thing /hit/ her! Still rubbing the side of her head where she was backhanded, she mutters, more to the troll, "I hope you enjoyed that..next time you won't get that far." The troll aims a toothy grin at Dusk, displaying his set of yellow, cavity-dotted teeth for her, then roughly pushes her in the direction of the two seated maidens. "Here ya go, ma'am, Mistress," he grunts, then moves back to regard the situation, arms folded over his chest in wait to be dismissed. ** This, ** Lrilanya proclaims, indicating Dusk. ** ..is Kellynn. ** Meyika locksends ** So beastial, perhaps this will be easier than I thought. Very interesting.. ** You locksend ** ((a wordless ripple of amusement; nothing more, nothing less)) ** to Meyika. Meyika rises from the bench, to her full height which easily looms over both troll and wolfrider. Eyes unmoving from the furry one, she flits her hand, indicating that the troll is no longer necessary. In silence, clear-violet eyes study the one called Kellynn. ** How many eights of times do I have to tell you my name is Dusk? ** the furred elf nearly spits out the words in her sending, glaring after the troll before standing up on her two legs, stepping back warily from the two that she has trouble seeing. Meyika raises her brows, noting with a hint of amusement. ** It can send. ** The troll scurries away with a speed that betrays its otherwise formidable size. Lrilanya rises to her feet, taller still than Meyika, yet simply stands there, regarding both cousin and wolf-child in cool interest. ** She wouldn't before, ** she notes in reply to Meyika, then smiles lightly. ** But when you threaten to remove that which she speaks with it gains quick obediance in that regard. ** Dusk scowls at both Meyika and Lrilanya, taking another step backwards. ** Of course I can send. I'm an elf, just like you are, even if you act like something else. I'm Dusk, of Willowholt. She ** Dusk gestures towards Lrilanya ** is so mindsick that she thinks I'm her daughter or something. I didn't do anything to deserve being here, and I want to go. ** Meyika clucks her tongue. ** If you're looking for a reason to be here, that is being arranged. ** Lrilanya seems to fade slightly, offering no words as she watches with calm, cool interest. Her gaze seems to focus entirely on the rust -furred Upworlder, hollow blue eyes a'glittering with dark amusement. Meyika refuses, as well, to peel her gaze from the so-called elf. ** Lrilanya, I think we should move to a cavern less..public. ** Dusk can't exactly hide the somewhat intimidated look on her face, and she backsteps further, looking around for another way to go. She wants out, plain and simple. In a single, fluid movement, Meyika sweeps aside the right side of her cloak, revealing the whip coiled at her side. ** Yes, less public. That would be.. fine. ** Lrilanya's sending laces out lazily, distractedly, lifting her intertwined fingers to touch them to her lips, curled in a faint smile. ** Wouldn't want any necessary distractions. ** You sense in a locksend, Meyika sends only. ** Your cavern? ** ** No..you can't do this to me..I won't let you. ** Dusk protests, her hands reaching back behind her to feel for a wall or something she can feel to perhaps guide her away. This is not a good thing. It's not. You locksend to Meyika, Lrilanya's sending glitters of faint disappointment. ** After Duskellyn was removed I requested that a pair of trolls have mine cleaned. ** Meyika sends openly ** My cavern is closest. ** In quiet steps she sweeps her way toward the furred one. waiting for Lrilanya to do the same. Lrilanya plays the part of the chalk-white shadow, following Meyika with naught a sound. So it's going to be 'stalk the wolfen elf'. It's no game Dusk wishes to play, and she darts to one side, where she believes an opening to be, hands feeling things out ahead of her. ** Get away from me.. ** she warns. Meyika almost send-chirps. ** This way, Kellynn. And I'll note that it is in your best interests to cooperate. ** To accentuate this idea, Meyika traces a finger along the handle of her whip, walking closely to the furred one, in the direction of the eastern tunnel. You locksend to Meyika, Lrilanya's sending is considering. ** Would it be possible, cousin, to make the effects temporary? They are /so/ much fun to break and it wouldn't do, just in case, for the death of the Juraido's pet to bring unwanted consequences. ** Meyika locksends ** As I am in dire need of practice, cousin, I rather doubt that any effects would be permanent. ** You locksend to Meyika, Lrilanya appears pleased. ** Ah, good. ** ** I really doubt whatever you have in mind is in my interests, ** Dusk protests, and both of her hands press against a cold, solid wall of rock. Great. ** And don't call me Kellynn! ** She turns quickly, pressing up against the wall. Lrilanya's eyes seem to glimmer in a faintly electric shade of blue as her sending flickers from mind to mind. In contrast, her sending is cold, hard, and icily sharp. ** It is your name now. Either accept it or you will have no name at all. ** Meyika's clear-violet eyes narrow, tired of such disobedience. She moves to lay a firm hand on the furred shoulder, and Meyika has a good set of nails. Dusk has more than just nails - she's got a set of sharp claws. ** Remove your hand. ** She growls defensively, as the elf grips her shoulder, biting back a wince. She ignores Lrilanya's threat to give her no name at all. Whatever happens, they can't take her soulname from her. Meyika gives the wolf-elf a hardly shove in the easterly direction, with little indication that she intends to remove her hand, confident that the little one knows what will become of her if she lifts a claw. ** Come, cousin. ** Lrilanya watches Dusk lazily, or perhaps tiredly; though Naeblis offered assistance, her starved muscles offer little strength and tire easily. Yet nothing betrays such in her regal demeanor, her straight stance and her calm poise. Meyika recieves a flicker of assent though the skeletal maiden still does not lift her gaze from 'Kellynn.' Dusk does wince this time, as the claws poke through her thick winter coat of fur, and she resists lashing out at Meyika with a slap. It may not be the smartest thing to do, after all. Reluctantly, perhaps becoming timid, she moves where shoved. Meyika moves herself and the little one, quickly paced, into the eastern tunnel. Meyika goes through the eastern passage. Meyika has left. Dusk goes through the eastern passage. Dusk has left. You go through a twisting rock passage to the east... River Cavern(#2158RAJLa) This cavern is even larger than the Glittering Cavern. it is kept alight by phospherecense and some odd fungi that casts a green glimmer over the area. In the center of the cavern is a river, actually just a large stream, that is crossed by several bridges of rock. Pillars of natural stone support the high ceiling, and between them, on can see the entrances to various dwellings for many of the tribe. Stalactites and stalagmites rise to embrace, though some have been shaped into furniture. The river winds from an impassable opening to the north, southwards to a cliff. Next to the river, between two of the bridges is a low wall made of stone, which has been lade together not shaped. A large chasm has opened up in a large section of the floor of the cavern. To see a list of caves type '+view caves'. Obvious exits: West (W) Downstream (S) Upstream (N) Northeast (NE) Contents: Dusk Meyika Talek Obvious exits: Chasm A lone, pale wraith of a figure might be glimpsed just outside one of the forgotten entrances to some private caverns, but it disappears quickly before it can be focused upon. Talek vanishes down a side passage into the darkness. Talek has left. Meyika sweeps in from the west, hand placed firmly on Dusk's shoulder, moving without the intention to stop. Meyika does not even notice the other, who soon disappears. At the same pace, she pushes the wolfling to her own cavern. Meyika has left. Dusk has left. Meyika's Cavern(#7613RJh) This cavern is the adequate size for one elf, though large enough to give you the sense of perhaps housing more than one. The smooth walls wrap around to give the chamber a square shape with more rounded edges. The room is sparsely furnished, the large, thick moss covered bed occupying the center. Though the room seems to have been shaped, the magic feeling of an elf can verify it, stalagtites and stalagmites reach out from the floor and ceiling around the walls. The sharp stone and mineral structures outline the room, like the jaws of a large beast. There is little light in the room, the only source being the glowmoss that carefully borders the door, illuminating a means of exit. Inky black shadows cling to the walls and venture out along the floor. The only indication of softness in the chamber is the moss on the bed. In fact, the longer you stay, the darker and colder the cavern seems to grow. Contents: Dusk Meyika Obvious exits: Out Meyika does not remove her hand until the little one is seated on the bed. Lrilanya moves after the pair, slightly behind. Her interest, it seems, might have been distracted by that barely glimpsed figure in the River Cavern, but it returns quickly back to the matter at hand, ice-blue eyes glittering expectantly. Dusk shivers faintly, a hand lifting to rub her shoulder as she looks around warily, seated upon the moss-covered bed. Her eyes drift towards the faintly illuminated exit. Meyika looks back, following Dusk's gaze, send-muttering to herself. Soon, she looks toward Lrilanya, then removes her coiled whip and offers it to her fellow Underworlder. ** You may sit on the bed as well. ** For unfortunately, there really isn't anything else to sit on. ** Would you do me a favor and hold this? ** Lrilanya offers a simple, wordless decline of her offer to sit on the bed, then reaches forward to accept the coiled whip as it is offered. ** Of course. ** Dusk inches back further on the bed, nearing the other side of it. Her sending is without words, but instead, it questions. What's going on here? Her eyebrows scrunch together in worry. Meyika nods, deciding to waste no more time. In an instant, the elf falls silent save a quick afterthought of a send toward Lrilanya, ** Restrain her if it becomes necessary.. ** For what seems like an exceptionally long time, the black haired elf remains a statue, eyes closed and mouth drawn into the tight line of concentration. Finally, as if awakening, her eyes flicker open, clear-violet replaced by an intense yellow glow that soon consumes not just the pupil, but the entire eye. It is like a light shining through, which in leaning closer toward the bed, she seeks to capture the wolfling within if eyes meet eyes. Lrilanya's fingers curl tightly over the whip's cord, eyes darkened as if she is reminded of something foul. Yet Meyika's sending seems to snap her quickly out of whatever darkness touched her thoughts and engulfed them briefly; moving forward, she tucks the coiled whip underarm, her fingers spreading, but not moving out. She watches, curiousity turning her blue eyes a deep indigo. Dusk's own pair of greenish lupine irises, set on yellow, widen in confusion at what's transpiring before her, but all instincts tell her to flee, and not to look back, no matter what. Since her eyes have done her little good since she was brought down here, she turns her head away from Meyika and the glow coming from her, shutting her eyes tightly. ** No..stay away from me! ** She leaves the bed, backing away. Almost immediately Lrilanya's hands dart out, fingers curling in an effort to seize the wolf-child by her arms and hold her in place. ** Stay there, little Kellynn. It won't hurt a bit. ** Meyika remains concentrated as much as she can, a pair of eyes. Light among darkness. Dusk growls at Lrilanya, her arms held by the thin, wraith-like elf. "Let go!" she hisses, the words coming out panicked while her thoughts wander. She pushes at Lrilanya, trying to make her go away from her, still keeping her eyes shut. Meyika slides forward, reaching out once more with her nails, only this time to grab the beast by the jaw, squeezing with her nails to force the eyes open, and then, to take them. While she is rarely - and may never be - a significantly strong elf, Lrilanya's grip, at least, is unfaltering; and when the wolf-elf shoves into her her grip tightens all the more, her fingertips biting into Dusk's upper arm. ** Be still. ** Dusk yelps out in a cry of pain as Lrilanya's nails dig into her skin, and she is held still, further attempts to flee cut off when Meyika joins in, making her open her eyes. ** No, don't..please.. ** she whimpers, fright washing over her at the unknown. Meyika settles her eyes, her light, upon the other's widened with fright. She leans closer, holding tight on the jaw until the creature falls still. Lrilanya's fingers do not release their grip in the slightest, still tight and still biting. She has fallen silent, watching Meyika with that unwavering cool interest. Dusk shakes against both Lrilanya and Meyika, attempting to turn her head away from Meyika in order to get her eyes off of the Underworlder's. "Stop..don't. I won't let you do this.." Though Meyika had forced her eyes open, Dusk has thus far avoided looking directly into hers. Meyika digs her nails into the uncooperative one's jaw, forcing the head forward with all the strength she can muster, leaning even closer to limit where the little one can look. You locksend to Dusk, Lrilanya's sending is light, reminiscent of feathers caught in the wind or butterflies dancing midair. ** You have no choice in the matter. Please, little Dusk, let her get it over with and you can retire back in my chambers. ** Dusk whimpers again, and now, there's little else she can do but meet Meyika's eyes.. [DM] You sense in a locksend, Meyika begins to enter your mind, like a dark mist seeping in from all sides. The send-voice is almost like an echo through the golden glow, interwined with a suggestive tone. ** Dusk, Kellynn, wolf, beast ** She addresses you. [DM] You locksend to Meyika, Dusk's mind tries to erect a wall to block you out, and keep her safe. Aside from that, no words come forth. Meyika has fallen once again still, intently focused on the furred one. Dusk's body stills along with Meyika's, her eyes staying open and locked on those of the one trying to overcome her. [DM] You sense in a locksend, Meyika continues with no regard to any reaction on your part save an increased focus. The mist swirls, seeking out your more beastial half, tapping it. Again, and always, she speaks with a hypnotic suggestion. ** You are to become the beast you are, wild and unpredictable.. ** Lrilanya still watches Meyika, for she can only see the top of the little one's head with her height and position, her grip unchanging. She waits, with that infinite amount of patience that is both cold and expectant, for the task to be finished. The corners of her lips twitch, as if to smile, but such an expression is often foreign to her and her face remains otherwise unreadable. [DM] You locksend to Meyika, Dusk's mental barriers, while definitely strong, crumble with only minimal resistance to the one attempting to change her around. You may notice that her thoughts begin to shift and blur, the mix between elf and wolf changing towards the latter - the wilder, more bestial side. [DM] You sense in a locksend, Meyika pounds at your mind with a continual suggestive flow. ** You are a wolf, a filthy beast with one thing on your mind, to hunt. ** She pauses and an image begins to appear, that of a gray-eyed troll, named Snee. ** The troll is your prey, wolf. Hunt like the killer you are.. ** [DM] You locksend to Meyika, Dusk offers wordless acknowledgement, understanding of the image of the troll she is instructed to hunt. And hunt she will... [DM] You sense in a locksend, Meyika speaks still, ** You will not rest until it is dead. ** She repeats that phrase until it is ground into your mind, keeping the picture vivid. Her own strength draining, she offers a final suggestion. ** You will remember nothing of this, wolf, nothing. ** [DM] You locksend ** ((Again, no words, just a sense of acknowledgement.)) ** to Meyika. Suddenly, the glow fades and Meyika falls back, creeping her way to the bed and laying down, completely drained. Life finally flickers in Lrilanya's eyes when Meyika finally moves. ** Cousin? ** There is no concern, but mild query, plain and toneless. Her grip doesn't release in the slightest. Meyika sends only. ** I must sleep now, take her and leave her by the Juraido caverns, she will awaken in a little while and I suggest you not be present when she does. ** Dusk slumps forward towards Lrilanya as Meyika breaks contact. Perhaps unknown to her captor, something has been altered. Lrilanya seems ready to reply, but her cousin loses consciousness quickly, falling into the depths of sleep. Cruel pleasure turns her lips into a crueler smile and, lightly, she gathers the small wolf-elf into her arms, whether she is awake or comatose. ** Sleep well, cousin, ** she sends softly, regarding Meyika's innert form with odd emotion. Then she turns on her heels and moves to sweep out of the Mistress of Slaves's private chambers. River Cavern(#2158RAJLa) Obvious exits: West (W) Downstream (S) Upstream (N) Northeast (NE) Obvious exits: Chasm Dusk has arrived. Lrilanya's gaze distractedly flickers over the walls, perhaps to catch sight of that curious pale shadow that had caught her notice before. When nothing comes of it, a light frown creases her features before she reasserts her grip on the rust-red form in her arms and moves into the direction of the Cavern of Winds. There are rumors of the Juraido caverns there, but she herself has never seen them; but the gray-eyed troll is a familiar sight there, so it is just as well. You head into the northeast tunnel. The further you go, the louder the sound of wind can be heard. It almost sings as it blows past the rocks. Cavern of the Winds(#8479RAL) The cavern that you are in is a divine mixture of natural formations and careful adjustments by ancient shapers. The top of the cavern is honeycombed with small holes, which allows a sharp draft of air currents. The entranceways have been shaped so that they each make a slightly different tone as the air flows past. The air currents flow at different times so the tones produced are not constant. The cavern itself is not very large. There are several small benches shaped out of stone, which have stood for ages upon ages. Small patches of glow moss grows here and there. Obvious exits: Southwest (SW) Dusk enters from the river cavern. Dusk has arrived. For her part, the furred elf does little to object to Lrilanya's carrying of her. In fact, Dusk stays completely still. The skirts of her robes caught by the singing currents, Lrilanya moves into the Cavern of Winds with the soft rustling of the woven materials. To the far wall Dusk is placed, arranging her like one would a doll. Then she rises partially, regarding the still form for a long moment. Dusk rests where she is placed, a still figure in the darkness, waiting to awaken when the time comes. Then she crouches again; from amongst the folds of her robes, Lrilanya draws out a small, delicately shaped knife, crafted of fine metal that glints in even the faintest light. With a soft smile she presses it into Dusk's hand, curling her fingers over its handle gently. A hand lifts, the fingertips barely visible beneath the overly-long sleeve, to brush against Dusk's cheek lightly. ** Use it well, my pretty one, ** her send whispers. ** Use it well. ** Lrilanya, with that, rises slowly to her full height and exits the Cavern. [End Log]