Oloth -- Logs

Xarlen steps into his small apartment, and steps aside, keeping the door open. "Welcome," He intones. "You know," Comes his offhanded tone, "I haven't been introduced to you." He moves to the wall, placing his hand upon it, and concentrating. After several moments of focusing, two unremarkable chairs rise from the floor.

Rokhan nods curtly and draws himself to some semblance of full height, but a military position of attention, "I am Rokhan, late of the Neu Bayersche Sternwaffe, Formerly Speaker for Stormhaven, under Alpha Grey, and formerly of Danforth's Sturminfanterie Leichte. Basically I have been a military officer for most of my life.

Xarlen smiles wryly. "Rokhan would do, you know," He comments with a wink of the golden brow, before moving swiftly and gracefully to one of the risen chairs.

Rokhan nods, giving you a quick smile, "I am a believer in full disclosure. Apologies for my lack of Brevity". he moves stiffly to the proffered chair and takes a seat slowly, Once settles he rests his hands upon his cane in front of him. "So, I wished to speak with you on a matter of some urgency."

Xarlen nods his head, and, cane placed between his legs, both hands cupping the loadstone and crystal sphere, the elf leans upon it. "Hold not your tongue then here, Rokhan. The walls keep out intrusions."

Rokhan relaxes a little. "Well, as you well know, we have recently concluded operations against the Neogi, yes? Are you aware of what their goal was?"

Xarlen tips his head. "My assumption, Wisdom-speaker, is that they were either coming here intent on swapping slaves in the Bazaar, or enslaving Arcana herself."

Rokhan says, "My belief is that they were here to settle, to colonize. Are you aware of their life cycle?"

Xarlen nods. "Had they an Great Old Master?"

Rokhan says, "They have the capability to >make< one, as long as they live. as far as I have read, it take some time, but not a lot for an envenomed Neogi to become one. They just need a place to 'emplace that'.. thing. It was imperative in the operational plan that no Neogi were to make planet fall here, because of their peculiar breeding cycle.. irrespective of their predatory and domineering natures."

Xarlen nods his head. "True, but what've you to worry? We destroyed the ships, and have all of them in cells. -True- they can create their own, but the Great Old Master would have to eat them all, to sustain itself.

Rokhan says, "Not necessarily.. Now we come to the next mis-implemented piece of the plan. Before operations were to start it was noted that the Illithids should have been rounded up and detained. this did not occur until after the operations had started."

Rokhan says, "as long as one of the Neogi is alive, and can be fed any suitable protein, it becomes something of a 'commodity'."

Xarlen mmhms, leaning back into his chair. "I see..." He makes a gesture. "So you're suggesting that one could make an infestation?"

Rokhan says, "Should it receive a sufficient venom, yes... exactly. Now as long as you have any of these alive, they become two things... One, a predatory threat, and the other is a commodity. Now the Illithids have been rounded up. I overheard what you and the governor discussed in the garden last week, about using the umber hulks in the mines, and I surmise that he plans to use the Illithids to 'coerce' the Neogi into commanding the umber hulks to toil in the mines. Is my assumption correct?"

Xarlen nods. "To my knowledge, yes. But if you're suggesting that the Illithids are to be making Neogi incubators, I believe before the first pops we would figure out what's happening; a Great Old Master is not inconspicuous."

Rokhan says, " In a perfect world yes, but remember what I said about making them a commodity? One , I think the Illithids will be less than sincere in any of their efforts because no one wishes to be coerced. Who is to say that they would not manipulate events to their own purposes while fulfilling the 'letter' of their agreements. Two, a neogi with its umber hulk is now a commodity for certain unsavory characters, all it takes is to lose one, especially for someone that is overconfident in their mental abilities. We all make mistakes, and have to sleep sometime. The Illithids, I believe could make people thing a Great master is inconspicuous."

Xarlen considers a moment. "Noted. But, I ask you, if you were an Illithid, would You do something that might get the Governor's order to request your death? And, I think they get the point the Governor does not do 'swift death'. They are opportunists, but a dead opportunist is a dead opportunist none the less. Next, the Illithids would be watched with such a close eye they would feel the lashes, my friend. I believe we have some psionics among the 'good' citizens. We have ways on keeping tabs on the illithids that doesn't include just staring at them."

Rokhan says, "I think you overestimate the power and vigilance of the local authorities, if they could not bring the 'Thieves guild' here to heel -- then against a close-knit ethnic community of Illithids... I am quite sure they can move subtly in the long term, and not arouse suspicion until too late. Also it is a breathtaking display of greed and hubris for The governor to put these Umber hulks in the mines and continue to 'maintain' the neogi. That's three sets of variables he is trying to calculate. It's a house of cards, and as a property owner here, I am thinking this is an unacceptable risk. if they cannot manage keeping the thieves guild a minor nuisance in Arcana, I doubt they will be able to maintain control here."

Xarlen nods his head. "You have a point. I do not see why our mages cannot overcome these Umber hulks and command them themselves, and forget the Neogi, but..." He shrugs. "Also, Rokhan, some of us have eyes and ears within the underbelly of this underbelly of a city. Those who have their senses dug deep in the muck of this place will get wind. In fact, that's when one's mission could very well be.

Rokhan says, "Yes, exactly. If the labor is needed, assume control of the Umber hulks yourselves, and put the accursed Neogi to death -- quickly, before one of them festers and erupts into a sea of baby black spiders. But please, do not aid the Governor's plan, as it is folly and will only make the situation worse than if the Neogi attacked boldly. " He pauses for a moment, then continues, "Some of you may have eyes and ears deep into the muck below, but those views go both ways. For instance, isn't Alois also associated with the thieve's guild? He's not what I would call the most trustworthy or moral character. There are probably others, and after the governor insulted me, by calling the 'Auslander' governments corrupt, I think he should look closer to home to find corruption. I doubt the Governor's orders are ever exactly implemented as he specifies."

Xarlen steeples his fingers. "I will be blunt and honest with you, Wisdom-speaker. I am working for the Governor. An information gatherer, a spy hunter, if you would, in the Bazaar. I have no loyalties, but I know who is giving me...payment. And I may not be the best of moral character." He chuckles humorlessly. "Also...does it not take much time for an Old Master to burst? Would it not take a long time to amass enough neogi to strike successfully?

Rokhan says, " Granted, as I have said before I believe in full disclosure. If you can convince him of the folly of his plan, then why not try. We all have our masters. However think. it's not the "number of Neogi" but the amount of Venom. yes they are separated now, but if one can extract the venom of a snake, one can extract and collect the venom of a Neogi. If under the guise of a medical examination, or done at night by anyone that walks in shadow and has the skills for the procurement of poisons from nature, this could be done. Now wouldn't that be a chaotic mess if someone collected the venom in a sufficient amount, and then sold it? If one of the Neogi was just "unaccounted for by someone" and that Neogi ended up with the same buyer as the venom? a little chaos would disrupt things, and I am sure there are active chaos cults here. "

Xarlen nods his head, considering. "Rokhan, I am well aware of many an idiot and twisted mind, but Why would someone do that? An army? They would surely be exterminated if discovered.

Rokhan says, "Who's to say you could ever fins out? You would be too busy exterminating the Neogi to track the perpetrators, and by the time you could, the trail would be cold, and what ever efforts they needed to conduct during the period f chaos will have been completed. The neogi and their laborers are too much of a target to be ignored. Think! Now on the other hand I was under the impression that Slavery was illegal here on Arcana, now isn't the governor trafficking in the same trade he denounced to maintain his membership in the old FC Council. is he by action going to repudiate treaty, chapter and verse, just to scrape a few more minerals out of a mine?"

Xarlen considers. "IF you want to shred a rabbit, Rokhan, then look at in the sense that Umber Hulks are nothing more then beasts; their intelligence suggests so, thus they're like beasts of burden. Neogi are, as many have put it, vermin, and not considered a 'good race' per se, so many would consider them not slaves in the common sense. I ask you, who raises a hand when you treat a Kobold badly? Who speaks out when you put a collar on an orc?"

Rokhan says, "Anyone with principle would raise their voice. those without principle could justify behavior on lesser races. I easily could have been considered a lesser race, where I came from. cruelty just begets cruelty, and it would be best to just eliminate the problem cleanly, quickly and efficiently, as a slave relationship is inefficient and insecure."

Rokhan says, "Even a hunter desires a clean kill."

Xarlen nods his head. "I, myself, for the record, like kobolds. They're very...cunning." A dismissive gesture. "But, in any event... To be honest, I'm unsure I can sway the Governor."

Rokhan nods slowly, and says in a quiet voice, "Please Sir. Please try. I will ask audience with the Governor myself soon, and do feel free to report what I have said here, to him. Remember, full disclosure, nothing here should be a secret to him, but it should not be spread around, lest those 'eyes and Ears' gain any 'Ideas'.

Xarlen winks behind his glasses. "I am some of those eyes and ears, Wisdom-speaker. I've not about to plant any seeds of destruction.

Rokhan nods, "thank you, Sir."

Xarlen inclines his head. "You're quite welcome. Is there anything else?"

Rokhan says, "N-not that I can think of, sir, but please, convey my words and intent to the Governor, and let him know that I seek an audience as well."

Xarlen nods. "And, I do hope that these words might chip a bit of his stubbornness on the issue. But you understand that he is my superior and is supplying my payment and protection, thus I don't want to jeopardize such.

Rokhan says, "Understood, I mean no disrespect to his position, but as I had done with Lord Grey of Stormhaven, I just advise those in command, to command wisely."

Xarlen mmhms. "Duly noted, and appreciated, Wisdom-speaker."

Rokhan bows from the waist formally, "Thank you."

Xarlen grins faintly. "Though, I wish you hadn't taken down that ship...I was prepared to launch a full scale ambush upon it's inhabitance when it reached the Bazaar's dock.

Rokhan says, "Why? that would have only brought your men in danger. better to kill efficiently, as a hunter, than foolishly ."

Xarlen says, "I had no men."

Xarlen arches a brow. "You also annihilated the slaves on that ship."

Rokhan arches an eyebrow above his flat-lensed oculars, "No.. men? ... You alone against that ship? Still, my method was far more certain.

Xarlen nods. "True... Alois and his apprentice were behind me offering a quarrel or two, but they were well hidden." He nods his head. "True, it was foolish, but I had prepared the battlefield for my utmost advantage and strategy.

Rokhan says, "Well I cannot argue with the preparations, however a quarrel against a horse-sized beast, and a ship made of stout oak? it would have been a long and sweaty business."

Xarlen laughs softly. "I had barrels of oil and water prepared. A flaming quarrel into the oil drums, and a good number are aflame, hey? A spell summoning a flaming wall in front of their ship's door would've halted the approach of more. Dumping drums of water upon the cavern floor before the ship was the next procedure, and," Tapping his cane, "Add electricity... Alois and his apprentice were to keep the mages from getting to me; I would insure those suited for close fighting wouldn't make it.

Rokhan nods, impressed, that was wise. Well done, Sir.

Xarlen grins faintly. "I am trained in the art of Battlemagic, friend."

Rokhan nods, "That is good to know, Sir. We may have need of such training if things proceed as I fear.

Xarlen pats his cane. "If such does happen, I will be on the front. I have been itching for a scuffle in some time...thus my...'eagerness' for that ship to have docked."

Rokhan rubs his leg, "I was eager...once..."

Xarlen nods his head. "It happens."

Rokhan says, "very well then. I believe the information is in good hands, I thank you for your time sir, and I do hope you can persuade the Governor."

Rokhan stands stiffly and bows formally, Old Prussian fashion, and recovers.

Xarlen nods his head in formal return. "Good eve, Wisdom-speaker, and may the night be your friend."

Rokhan says, "Safe journeys and pleasant dreams to you as well, Sir."

Rokhan turns and heads out.

Rokhan's Suite
You enter a smooth, round room tucked neatly into the branches of Twilight, Dammerung's second level. The walls are clean and cream-colored, with a wide window that shows the thick shrubbery and gardens below, outside.

He stands tall, with a distinct military, or aristocratic bearing. Though he leans a little on a cane His fur is a dark and even charcoal gray, with his counter shading an almost shocking white. There is a slight artificiality to the fur, as there are repeating patterns in the charcoal and the borders between colors look a little too sharp. His neck ruff is neatly trimmed, and he regards you flatly through a pair of circular lensed oculars covering his eyes and showing a discrete, thin bead of medical adhesive holding them there. His features are chiseled and gaunt, and his fur shows the glossy sheen of artificial good health. He has a long aristocratic muzzle, showing a heavy jaw.. His ears are mobile and expressive, swiveling to track sounds around him. He is tall but a little stoop shouldered, as if standing is a worldly burden and he seems very thin, almost bony. His torso narrows down to slim hips. He stands tentatively on digitigrade legs, shifting his grip on his cane from time to time, and h Currently he wears a tailored wool tunic of greenish gray. Its stand collar is opened to accommodate a white silk scarf tucked neatly under the plastron of the tunic. It is well tailored, draping down almost to his knees, though it hangs somewhat loosely from his shoulders. It is plain of adornments other than a floral pattern embroidered in aluminum thread on the black velvet collar, subdued silver shoulder boards, and black cuffs. It buttons double-breasted to the collar, with only a small ribbon bar displaying any color. On his left shoulder is displayed the Stormhaven Flash, consisting of a solid black circle on a hexagon of gold. There are six lines radiating out from the central disk to each face of the hexagon. On the right he wears a Neu Bayern OKH shield, showing a Knight standing over a slain dragon. He wears a burgundy sash, over which he had belted his holster and case for his datapad. There are rings on the belt for the wear of a sword. He is wearing a pair of trousers of the same cloth as the tunic, but cut for digitigrades, though while still it looks fine, the cut is not the most flattering, being somewhat baggy. They are button cuffed at the hock. He wears white gloves and he wears deck shoes for lupines. Over this is a long stiff, wool double-breasted coat with pebbled aluminum buttons. He holds it with his free hand on occasion as if he feels a chill. (http://www.yerf.com/ruggscot/tenyrpls.jpg)

Rokhan is working quietly in his room when there's a quiet, pleasant chime. As he looks up he can see the door clear. On the other side Dakini can be seen, her palm resting on the door. By her stance he can guess that the transparency of the door is one-way only.

Rokhan closes the valise, and goes to the door in his slow fashion and opens it He bows formally, "Good evening, Milady".

Dakini smiles, nodding pleasantly to Rokhan, "Good evening, Rokhan. May I enter? I trust all went well for you?"

Rokhan gestures for Dakini to enter, and as she walks by, checks to see if anyone has followed, then closes the door.

Dakini enters, striding in relaxedly, then pauses, looking around at the bare room. "Good heavens, Rokhan... did you not want to change the room to be more comfortable?"

Rokhan says, " At some point, Milady, I will, but I have been a bit.. distracted, of late."

Rokhan gestures for you to take a seat on one of the folding chairs from his ship. he takes the other and leans over the field desk. "well, what an evening this has been..."

Dakini nods thoughtfully, "Well... I would think it rather uncomfortable for you, considering your current condition. Why don't I change it here and now? It won't take but a moment, if you'll help me."

Dakini grins suddenly, nodding, "Indeed it has, ja."

Rokhan pauses, then nods ... "If you have offered, then yes, let's.."

Dakini's head lifts, as if she's listening to something far away... then she nods, "Excellent. It seems Dryx is available too." She looks at Rokhan, "Would you mind if I invited him over? I intend to offer him a job, if he'd like it... and if he accepts it would be good for you both to meet."

Rokhan says, " Dryx? perrrrhaps, however do you trust him enough to be listening to such sensitive information?"

Dakini smiles ruefully, "I want you to have more backup... and I believe he's quite good at what he does."

Dakini grins quietly, "And... discretion seems to be quite usual to him."

Rokhan's ears semaphore a bit, "Backup? this assumes I will be going into an orange, to red, to possibly black, area?

Dakini nods slowly to Rokhan, her expression quiet, "Possibly, Rokhan. We shall see... I will put forth the plan for tactical consideration by all very soon. I'm in the process of putting all the pieces together now, in fact."

Rokhan nods, "Option two, or option three?

Rokhan looks up as the door switched opacity to crystal again, "a visitor?"

Dakini shakes her head, "If we cannot use persuasion, we will first we need a team that trusts each other. We don't have that yet." She looks up, "Ah, that will be Dryx."

Rokhan says, "if you will excuse me for a moment, I'll let him in."

Rokhan gets up painfully and goes to the door.

Dryx steps through the round, dove gray door from Twilight's twisting hallway.

Rokhan says, "Welcome to my small apartment. sir. Please, have a seat on the Suitcase there."

Dryx nods softly. "I hope you'll excuse the intrusion. Dakini requested my presence."

Dakini nods to Dryx a bit absently... she's got one palm against the wall, and the room's walls are... moving a bit... shifting and changing...

Rokhan lets Dryx pass, before he returns to his folding chair.

Dakini grins lazily at you from behind the reflective blue-green shades which hide her eyes. Her hair is long and tousled, a bright, red-gold mane that occasionally hides her small pointed ears. She's a tall, slender, strong woman, with small but callused hands, and well-muscled forearms. She wears a soft, comfortably loose, ivory silk shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Over that is a sturdy, quilted, sleeveless tunic of dark indigo blue embroidered with intertwined silvery stars and ivory-gold unicorns. It is belted off snugly with a wide, well-worn leather belt. On her right hip, tied down about the right thigh, rides a holstered flechette pistol. On her left hangs a decorated and runically embossed scabbard with the plain, worn-leather-and-wire wrapped pommel of a short sword protruding from it. Sturdy, worn dueling gloves are tucked into the back of the belt, mostly hiding a cross-holstered dagger. Slung over one shoulder is her battered, padded leather airwoman's jacket, heavily decorated on the back with a rabidly snarling, eight-limbed, winged beast, and numerous other colorful decorations on shoulders, arms, and front. Her long legs are fitted with snug breeches, and her knee-high, well-used black leather boots and jacket smell pleasingly of years of quality leather care.

Wrapped in the dusty trappings of a vagrant, this drifter holds himself with an unassuming air and a reserved posture, despite his six feet of height. His boots are dirty; the leather battered, the soles worn. His tunic has lost its sleeves, ragged and faded gray with age, use, and the dust of the highway, tucked into loose black breeches held by a simple, wide sash, knotted at the side. A dark gray traveling cloak falls over his narrow shoulders, and his gaunt arms are covered with tattered wrappings that partially cover his long fingers. What the frayed cloth does to hide his reedy frame, it cannot do for his other features; his skin is smooth and a pale yellow hue, his eyes long, almond-shaped, liquid and black. Dark rosette spots splash across his cheekbones and trail back across his temples, toward the narrow slash of straight black hair tied tightly back atop his head. His ears point delicately, tapering to fine serration at the back. Quietly, he draws his cloak more closely around himself and adjusts his hood, withdrawn and somehow weary-seeming.

Rokhan says, "No intrusion at all, we were just about to exchange some information."

Dryx says, "I see."

Rokhan settles into his seat slowly and re-opens the valise and removes some notes on yellow pads. "A very interesting Night."

Dryx says, "There seems to be no shortage of those."

Dryx says, "Not since I arrived on this rock."

Rokhan's Suite
A compact, but not cramped ship's cabin. The walls are unpainted graphite fiber, and the floor is covered in black velcro carpeting. A door leads to a compact bathroom. A desk with terminal is rigidly attached to the forward bulkhead, and a swivel chair is attached to the deck. Built into one bulkhead is a sleeping enclosure, part bunk bed, part wolf den. Underneath is a locker for personal effects. A pressure suit hangs next to a sliding door that leads outside. It is noticeably warm in the room, which seems to suit Rokhan just fine.

Dakini finishes what she's doing, the temperature rising noticeably. She rubs her forehead a touch wearily, and sinks down on the bunk, "Whoof... definitely worked hard tonight..."

Rokhan says, "There's an old Chinese curse, that says, 'may you live in interesting times'. Times where scholars in a remote age can study the turmoil as one looks at an insect in amber."

Dakini chuckles quietly at Rokhan.

Rokhan says, "so,, who would like to go first?"

Dakini says, "Rokhan, I'd actually like a drink, if you have such here?"

Rokhan thinks about it for a moment, and gets up, and goes over to a container; he pulls out a colorful aluminum can with a floral picture of a cheerful human woman holding a pair of steins offering them and possibly her charms to the viewer. it's a rather tall can.

Rokhan hands the can to Dakini, "Skoal!"

Dryx hrmns softly, and pulls back his hood. He shakes his head softly with an odd top-to-bottom motion, shaking back his tightly bound hair. He supposes there's no point in making himself uncomfortable for the sake of privacy. Particularly not in this situation.

Rokhan peers at Dryx through his oculars, "Would you be needing some liquid refreshment as well?

Dryx says, "Water, if you have it."

Dakini accepts the drink with relief and a cheery, "Dosvidanya!" in return, then knocks several gulps quickly back. She sighs after that, looking relieved, "Need to keep the chemical balance, or I get headaches." She glances at Dryx, smiling faintly, "Well... I think I'll go first, actually. Dryx, we've been sort of dancing around the subject for a while now. Considering how steady and helpful you've been on several occasions, I'm starting to feel a little guilty... about taking advantage of you." She grins wryly, then says, "I don't know what terminology you're most comfortable with, but I'll gladly offer you space in my pack, or a patron, or a lord, or however you'd like to put it... want a job?"

Rokhan nods and shuffles into the fresher, and putters around, he returns holding a paper cup full of water. He places it on the card table in front of Dryx.

Dryx hehs quietly and folds his arms. "Employer is the term I prefer. I don't serve any lord." He nods to Rokhan, taking the cup. "Thank you," then turns back to Dakini. "What is it you need done?"

Rokhan returns to his seat, and removes the sidearm and puts it on the edge of the table. e pops his neck, with a crunchy sound then settles a bit.

Dakini nods, looking pleased, "That will do quite well then... employer, got it." She takes another long draught, then sighs again, "Well... actually, you seem to be doing it quite well already, Dryx, to be honest. You're quiet, discreet, you know when to back someone up and when to seem as if you're asleep." She's silent for a moment, wincing as Rokhan 'cracks'... then grins ruefully at the wolf, "That sounds just awful, you know..."

Rokhan grins slightly, "a reminder of youthful indiscretion. now most likely permanent."

Dakini laughs softly and cheerfully... the drink seems to be helping her recover quite nicely. She blinks slowly, her gaze turning back to Dryx -- apparently the drink is also helping her sense of humor... her eyes are dancing with mischief as she innocently inquires, "You serve no lord? What about ladies?"

Well... helping is a relative term, after all...

Rokhan glances around the table then back to his notes

Dryx grins a little, leaning back and taking a long pull from the paper cup. "It's good to remember," he says quietly, and places the cup on the table. He arches one gracefully forked brow, "I serve whomever buys my service, Dakini. You don't need to worry. Now," he says, pulling back a stray strand of black hair from his eyes, "You need an eye and ear, yes?"

Dakini giggles softly, covering her mouth, then cheerfully inquires, "You wouldn't even serve them with a nice orange sauce?" She pauses, then looks sheepish, "Drat... gimme just a minute and the buzz will be gone..." She takes a few deep breaths.

Rokhan just looks at Dakini, one brow rising above the right lens.

Dakini nods, straightening, "There we go. Sorry... I overdid it with Kern today, I think. Okay... where were we."

the brow continues rising for another moment

Dakini chuckles at Rokhan, although it's clearly quiet amusement and not the silly giggle of a moment ago.

Rokhan shakes his head and returns to looking at his notes, but he has a small half smile.

Dakini smiles, "It's all right, Rokhan. I just slugged the beer down a little fast." She turns to Dryx, "Hm. An eye and ear... you know, that's really a rather good way to put that."

Rokhan nods, " and quite useful, especially after what I have learned.

Dryx says, "An idiom I grew up with. I think it describes what I do rather well."

Rokhan nods.

Dakini nods, "Excellent." She looks at Dryx acutely, "There is one thing I'd like to add to that job description, Dryx. Here in the Oloth Sphere there are many extremely powerful, long-lived, insane individuals. As a consequence we, a group of us, have formed a small mutual-protection group. We watch out for and aid each other as necessary to keep any one of us from being overwhelmed by the forces that run rampant here." She pauses for a moment, checking to see if Dryx has any questions.

Dryx takes a second long pull from the paper cup, draining it, and nods once. "I understand."

Rokhan perks his ears, "would you like another?"

Dryx considers a moment. "Yes, please. It's been a long evening."

Rokhan rises from his seat and goes to the fresher again, though this time he bangs around a little longer. allowing Dakini to continue

Dakini says, "Very well. The one thing I'd like to ask of you is that you participate with that group. I want to be sure both that you and they have backup..." Her expression gets dry, "I do my best to watch out for my friends, but it is always wise to have another pair of eyes watching one's back. Does that cause you any problems?"

Dryx shakes his head. "I haven't got a problem with that. However, I have to make one point. If at some time you require me to kill someone... I work alone in that respect."

Dakini nods, "I understand. Do you not even want someone watching from a distance?"

OOC note: Here the cambot was accidentally swiped to another bit of gaming, and the rest of the previous conversation was lost

Xarlen, reclining against the base of a tree, breathes in the scent of the air. Cane laid across his lap, flask in hand, the gold elf enjoys a quiet moment, a content sigh passing from him. Few moments such as these are found, but one must grasp those.

Cynergy passes into view then, strolling into the park, head down, robes floating around her as she makes her way to the fountain area.

Xarlen, as expected, appears oblivious to the approach of someone, dark glasses void of sweeping gaze. Another slow sip from his flask, savoring the liquid within.

Cynergy is more clearly now making her way to the memorial stone near the fountain. She stops there once she reaches it, reaching out as if to touch it, but doesn't. She sinks to hear knees unexpectedly and remains in that position, long moments.

Xarlen puts his hand over his flask, head turning toward your direction. He smiles faintly. "You know," he comments, "You have a nice selection of pheromones there."

Cynergy thinks he can't possibly be speaking to her, but turns anyway, as her manners dictate she do, in order to make sure of this.

Xarlen's head is turned in her direction, those hollow, dark glasses almost staring. He lifts the flask once more, holding the elixir inside his mouth to let the taste roll ever so slowly down his throat. The elf makes no further inquiries, but there doesn't seem to be anyone about whom he could've been speaking to.

Cynergy is intrigued, that much is clear. She looks at you long moments before speaking, and when she does her voice is tight, as if she's struggling to keep it even and calm. "Thank you for the compliment. Am I to assume that since you can detect and appreciate my scent so intently, that you lack the use of your eyes?"

Xarlen chuckles faintly, but his voice does have a touch of dryness to it. "Well, it would seem so, yes, wouldn't it?" Head canting, a pause. "And, I'm guessing that...indeed, you're elven, yes?"

Cynergy is for a while fixed on the tone of your voice, the exact manner in which you laugh. She comes closer, slowly, after rising, but only a few steps. "Yes, I'm an elf." she waits to see if you're happy or unhappy about her coming nearer, her eyes intently scanning for reactions of any kind from you. If you can see, her motions speak of some training in combat or dancing, just by her grace alone.

Xarlen seems statuesque; expression almost unreadably blank. He does smile, however, at the fact that he was acute enough. "Not many are out," he starts, stroking his flask, "You've come for a stroll in this unforest, hm?" He shifts the cane about, setting the length upon the side of a thigh, its tip resting outward. "And, something else..." Hand lifts, the elf taps his chin in consideration.

Cynergy's voice is a little softer, her tone hard for a moment as unreadable as your expression, "I come to mourn." then just the sound of her soft sigh. "there should be a better place for doing that, but instead any who mourn dampen the spirits of all others here for the beauty of the park.."

Xarlen tips his head. "True, But does not the park seem as a better place then any? A cold, stone crypt seems so dreary and down. This is more of a...cycle, here, hm? Besides, it is better to be thought of In a place of beauty, then remembered in a place of despair and pain."

Cynergy shrugs a little, seeming to hold a few things she would otherwise say. "You make too fine of an argument for me to pick it apart..." You can at the least hear the rustle of her gowns as she bows and shifts a little. "I meant not to bother you..."

Xarlen's smile is warm, but perhaps to the most scrutinizing of observers, it is a mask above something else. "Do not feel so; I came here to relax, to enjoy a good drink amid the closest thing to a forest that is here, to think." A pause, "But, a conversation, if not inane chatter, is just as good."

Cynergy smiles finally, just a little. Her voice carries that hint of sad amusement evident on her mouth, "How adaptable and gracious you are, M'lord." she comes one step closer, almost joining you. "I am glad I am not the only one that feels Oloth could be improved by even the tiniest little forest..."

Xarlen shrugs his shoulders. "It could use a bit of wind, perhaps seasons... but wizard-tampered weather?" He begins to lift the flask, taking a slow, small draw, expression warm with the enjoyment. He is long in swallowing, "Such a delicious bouquet." His hand drops, stroking the grass beside him, as if an invitation.

Cynergy watches that movement with her hand, then stares at the grass there. She's thinking about turning and leaving, you can tell. Her posture has becomes quite tense and her breathing too controlled to be natural. But then she eases somewhat and asks, still looking at the grass, "May I join you, M'lord?"

Xarlen scoots slidingly to the side, offering an equal spot beside him against the tree trunk. "I wouldn't mind in the least." Attention drifting toward the trickling fountain, "Who have you come to morn, M'lady? You seem so somber; it must have been someone deeply close."

Cynergy's expression smoothes over, and it becomes easily apparent she's holding back feelings, trying not to be as extremely transparent as she always is. Her voice is tight once more, but she's not offended. "I've lost a great number of elves I considered both friends and family. My ship...well, most of my crew were lost in the Unhuman wars."

A golden brow lifts above the rim of his blackened lenses. "Truly? Then my hunch was correct; I figured you one of the elves taken from the Man-O-War, since there's not an incredible amount stationed here. But your ship..." A frown finds his lips, as remembrance is strained. "Are you of the Vrinn family?"

Cynergy has settled down beside you and carefully folds her hands in her lap. Her voice is matter of fact, as if her words were just a passing comment of no importance, "I'm Cynergy Vrinn. I am Vrinn by the Governor's decree. Some years ago he gave me his family name."

Xarlen nods his head, starting to rise the flask to his lips, but pauses. Head turning, "Tell me, do you enjoy Elverquist?" He shakes his hand slightly, sloshing the liquid spirits within.

Cynergy puts a hand on the ground to steady herself, smelling gently at the air, trying to catch a scent, "That's not... Elverquist?" she's breathless.

Xarlen's chuckle is genuine. "My dear lady, would I toy with one if it wasn't?" He asks, and lets the flask draw closer, so those rising scents may waft easier to you.

Cynergy's eyes are wide and show a little happiness, indeed. "When I have a choice, it's all I'll consume. To say I enjoy it is quite the understatement." she attempts a small laugh, "You have good taste..."

Xarlen mmhms. "It seems you share my tastes," He replies, relaxing against the tree's trunk. "Would you like a drop, hmm?" He inquires, shaking the flask gently, though not enough to dare spill a drop of the Ambrosia.

Cynergy smiles and plays with the hem of her robe, just tracing the edge between her fingers. "One drink, but I shall save it for a bit longer, perhaps. It is, after all, potent. Thank you for offering..." she turns to regard you more intently, much more easily not that she's close. "You have me at a disadvantage, m'lord. Am I not to know your name?"

Xarlen nods, and moves to cap his flask. "If it is longer you wish, then all right." Drawing it back, it's pushed his cloak, disappearing. A chuckle. "Indeed, it is a disadvantage." Considering, "Harlequin, my dear Cynergy.

Cynergy smiles then, genuinely. A little brighter and with a lighter heart. "Oh, but you have a lovely name. I am honored to meet you."

Xarlen chuckles in turn, holding his hand out a moment. True, a human gesture. "And me you, lady Cynergy," he replies in equal tones.

Cynergy lays her hand in yours a brief moment, seeming familiar enough with human customs. "I hope you didn't stop enjoying your drink in order to save some on my account, Harlequin." she does notice you've stopped drinking, then.

Xarlen, instead of taking normal human custom and shaking, shifts his hand to press palm and fingertips against that of yours. He seems to sigh, almost wistful, saddened and pleased at the same time. Then your words seem to get to him. "Oh, no; as you said, it is potent, and even though the Path has much in stock, I try not to waste it."

Cynergy gives pause a moment, not familiar with what your hand is doing to hers, and she seems only curious about it. It's a moment before she puts her mind back to your words and nods, "Well, with two of us so after their stock, I'll have to speak to Talabrina about making sure there's amply supply. It wouldn't do to run out, and have both of us miserable."

Xarlen chuckles at that. "Well, I do have an Emergency bottle, which I would likely share with you, of course. Best both of us benefit rather then one suffer hm?" His hand starts to pull away, but fingertips caress down the front of your palm. He seems to enjoy this a moment, before hand draws back once more.

Cynergy grins brightly at that, "Indeed, that would be the obvious reasoning behind making sure there is amply supply. I like the idea of sharing bottles, however. I just hope it never comes to be that it's the last bottle." Words, then realization as she finished that you're still holding her hand, and touching her like that, making her shiver lightly. If you can see her in the darkness of the night, in the low lights of the park, she's blushing.

Xarlen caresses your palm for only a moment or so more, an expression of...remembrance upon his features, before his hand draws back to be folded into his lap. Posture shifting, turning outward faintly. "If it came to that, then I think that I would have to blackmail a merchant vessel to make speedy trip to Evermeet, hm?"

Cynergy allows it, easing a little as you begin to speak again, having dropped her hand. She seems not used to touch, for some reason. It's hard to tell if she was ever used to it, or if this is a recent development. "My station would never allow such, but I believe the same station could be most helpful in making sure the merchant vessel arrives safely, and that the goods are imported without question through customs.

Cynergy says, "What is it that you do, besides partake of the finest spirits in existence?"

Xarlen's grin is quite playful. "Good; we can not be without our Ambrosia, yes?" A wink, the brow twitching from behind those lenses. Head tilting at your question, a light smile. "Do? Well, there are some things which, even within such a secluded and almost natural place such as this, that have eyes and ears.

Cynergy nods, looking around, "If only there were a magical forest, after all. So it is your secret then, for now." she doesn't seem surprised or offended.

Xarlen mmhms. "Well, Dammerung does stop intrusion of any kind, thus, one could speak quite freely and fear no eavesdroppers.

Cynergy looks away, nodding, "I've learned as much since I've been back, yes. Dammerung is quite the... well, whatever it is." She can't help but keep the distaste out of her voice totally.

Xarlen says, "Useful," He fills in. "Magical, psionic eavesdropping is taken up. Perfect for spilling one's secrets." A chuckle. "However, I do not believe Dammerung can keep the other person's tongue still, to insure secrecy is kept that: Secrecy."

Cynergy scowls then, missing your meaning, "Why, are they still upset about that? I told Dakini Stardancer du Dammerung that I apologized." she actually huffs.

Xarlen's brow arches behind his glasses. "Pardon me?" He inquires, turning slightly. "I believe you misconstrued... What is this bussiness with lady Stardancer?"

Cynergy sighs, lifting her chin a bit, almost haughtily. "When I was in the care of Dammerung, and had awakened for the second time since being returned to Oloth, I was not... considering every action. I was quite disoriented what with having to explain my identity, and then being asked to explain how something I didn't even remember, happened. Mind you, none of those questioning me were even my superiors, but complete strangers to me. I had only one friend that I had known before I had left Oloth for the last time, in my presence, and he was outright refusing to give me any answers, in the moments Lady Stardancer took exception to my.. natural predisposition to psionically communicate."

Xarlen considers this, nodding. "I See...well, you must understand that, after the situations Arcana has currently went through, information was a necessity, and many may not have had their tact with them." A faint smile. "However, you did well in finding Dakini; she is very good at helping. Very trustworthy with many things..." He says little more, but leans once more against the tree, settling comfortably.

Cynergy still has that prideful air about her like the very robes she wears: close and quite evident. "I cannot take credit for finding her, as I woke up in Dammerung. She's been very hospitable, and so I am grateful for that." Her knees come up to her chest and she hugs them, looking out over the park, much less comfortable speaking of Dakini, obviously.

Xarlen turns his head, a faint, playful expression upon his visage. "I take it you would care for that sip of Elverquist, now, hm?" He inquires. "Perhaps to chase away this disdainful cloud of despair." The elf reaches into his cloak, retrieving the bottle. "So, have you at least enjoyed your return to Oloth, other then the interrogation which has greeted you?"

Cynergy looks to indeed be wanting the offered drink, and reaches to take the flask once it's offered. She nods, thoughtful, "I suppose so. I've made one..." she looks directly at you, holding the flask, "...maybe two good friends. That is always something wonderful, something precious to me." With that she tilts her head back and lets a bit of the drink from the flask spill into her mouth, but not at all too much. Just one perfect swallow, careful to not take the last of it. She sighs, and can't help but instantly grin. "Oh but that is sublime..."

Cynergy licks the last of the taste of her lips and offers the flask back, her cheeks a little flushed.

Xarlen takes the flask back without fumbling to find it outstretched. Drawing a small quaff for himself, the elf almost mimics you, savoring the blissful liqueur before swallowing. His flask once more capped, it returns to its store. "So, you are the Governor's adopted daughter? Interesting. Though, it doesn't surprise me; the Governor is full of many surprises."

Cynergy smirks then, her grin just twisting a little into something that expresses much of her amusement, her soft laugh carrying the rest. "The Governor never did explain why he changed my name, in fact I wasn't even aware of the change until I was sure those calling me by my surname were indeed speaking to me. And even then I had to ask and make sure they weren't mistaking me for his mate. Governor Dragonslayer and I were once intimate for a period of time. so I'm quite sure he doesn't regard me as a daughter. I do think of Sylune as my sister, however, and consider Alois my own brother. So although I feel a part of the family, at the same time I am unable to feel one definitive role."

Xarlen nods his head, but stops after a moment. "You were intimate with him, hmm? Well," He says with a faint chuckle, teasing still, "That also speaks some things of you. I have an impression of what the Governor looks for..." But, the line of that conversation soon ends, lest he wander into mined territory, unsure if the ground is safe. Relaxing once more, "But, he does seem more Aloof and flighty then well, Gold elves."

Cynergy raises a brow, very curious as to what her former experiences might say of her. "I can't say I've seen him since I've been back, I believe he's much occupied with his daughter, Captain Sylune Vrinn. Gala'maDred is a master at seeming one thing and being quite another. Those close to him revere him for it, and see it for the necessity it has become for him." She still hugs her knees, but isn't balled up over them, her shoulders back as she leans back, just not falling backwards for her grip forward. "Dare I ask what you think of me suddenly, knowing I was the consort of the Governor?"

Xarlen chuckles softly. "Well, I wasn't going to just blurt it out without an inquiry," He offers, lifting a hand to brush over his hair. "But, the Governor, during speaking of many things, had mentioned the type of women he enjoyed. Rather...Assertive, if you would?" A dark grin, head turning out over the park. "I share such a...like, and coupled with an unnatural fascination with drow..." A hand lifts, brushing his glasses, "They don't mix in a healthy way."

Cynergy seems indeed surprised, mildly amused, "He's predisposed to that now, is he?" Perhaps she was not that way at the time she was with the Governor, or isn't that way now? Something surprises her, to be sure. She looks at you, but not to intently, "I confess I've had, perhaps still do have, the same fascination for drow, indeed for all elves." Who is fascinated with their own race? Very few. "I can't say I would think a drow dominatrix would be appealing, nor a safe bet, no." She puts it more directly than you might, but seems not embarrassed about it. "Although sexuality is something I've not had to concern myself wish for some time now, thankfully."

Xarlen chuckles faintly. "A drow dominatrix? Not a dominatrix at all, my dear; true, I do enjoy those who take a bit of control but, I found that the women of such culture very...sadistic and demanding, commanding and demeaning." The tone not too flattering. Turning slightly to regard you, "Perhaps it is thankful to you, but, if I might confess, it has been long since I've touched a woman, let alone anything else." Of course, he's also trying to explain the prolonged holding of your hand, as well.

Cynergy shifts position, not out of discomfort for the conversation of boredom, but simply because she's meaning to get more comfortable, her legs stretching out as she arranges her robes to cover them, her back now resting against her side of the tree trunk. Her tone is curious, "And you miss this?"

Xarlen's brows arch behind his glasses. "Do I miss the touch of a woman?" His grin is slight. "My dear, if I did not, then I do not think I would have blood pumping through my veins." His chuckle is slight, as he reclines comfortably, hand stroking the loadstone and crystal topper of the cane.

Cynergy shrugs a little, picking at the ends of her hair that fall in her lap. "Maybe after a time you simply forget it was once so important. Becoming busy in one's work helps. Having good friend is insurance against loneliness."

Xarlen's grin fades. "I am bored here," He states flatly. "With the neogi coming, it offered a bit of...Danger. But it seems I did not get much of a chance. At least someone to spend some time with alone would be something to offer interest to the dullness I've found."

Cynergy is as serious as you, but her voice carries hope. "We could always get you involved in an a series of experiments to pass the time, then."

Xarlen turns his head toward you. "Experiments, you say?" He asks in curiosity. "Experiments to...?

Cynergy grins just a little, "Oh, we could see how much Elverquist we could drink under this tree in one night, and in turn see if the anyone hauls us away before dawn... we could see how long it takes for us to become sick of each other's company..."

Cynergy holds up a hand, "of course you should have some theories regarding these things before the experiments begins, were you amenable to these ideas."

Xarlen chuckles softly. Other possibilities do flash across his face, but due to well training, they're kept hidden from showing like the colors of a flower. "They sound worth the try, hm? I don't see many a problem with such." He reaches for his flask, drawing it out to pet the chilled, metal surface. "Hm. Of course, we -should- get a bottle; this little flask isn't proper for duel drinkers."

Cynergy laughs easily, at that, "Oooooh, my reputation must be re-established as a duel drinker!" she giggles, "I warn you, I cheat, and badly at that."

Xarlen's hand lifts, fingers wiggling at you. "Ah, but as do I. It seems a fitting pair then, hey?"

Cynergy laughs, nodding. "Too much so. We should start suspecting this was no chance meeting, and some are seeking to keep us out of their hair."

Xarlen grins, at that. "Ah, but, to the discourse of any Elverquist merchants. We may siphon their supplies." Laughing quietly, "Now -there- is a theft worth doing."

Cynergy's eyes light up. "Oh, but I'm afraid I've never tried my hand at thievi.." she blinks, remembering herself, and clearing her throat, amused, "Goodness, there I was, about to take you seriously."

Xarlen grins in reply. "Perhaps you should. I wouldn't be adverse to doing it; a merchant with many full pouches does not miss one, and someone Should relieve him of some all that moneykeeping. Think how uncomfortable lifting those heavy bottles are...

Cynergy snickers, "But it would be so much easier just to tell Talabrina to order more, and give Alois the business. Well, not that he ever charges me..."

Xarlen's brows lift. "No charge? Oh, well then!" A grin. "But, still, there is that sense of...danger. Eradication of boredom, hey?

Cynergy nods, "Indeed there is, but.. will we be that bored sitting under a tree and drinking Elverquist? Surely we'll find some trouble to get into, or it will find us. I've a gift for the latter, I think."

Xarlen considers. "True, but I must be careful what I do while under the drink." A faint snicker. "And, my dear, you may very well have found trouble, already."

Cynergy laughs at the last thing you say, showing she doesn't really believe you, or at least take you very seriously if she was supposed to. "Trouble? You're telling me you're trouble?"

Xarlen nods his head, as serious as one can try to be. "Indeed. I'm not harmless. I'm a wicked thing," He replies, waggling his brows. "And, you're not believing a word.

Cynergy ohs, feigning surprise, "No, no! I believe you." She peers at you, deliberately, "Yes, yes upon more significant inspection you do come off as the ultimate embodiment of evil and chaos." she sighs, looking away, "I suppose I shall have to drink all of the Elverquist whilst you go off and do something... wicked, then."

Xarlen chuckles softly. "Indeed, but..." A faint, wicked grin, "Who said I had to go off and do something wicked? Why, a delectable elf under the effects of much Elverquist? Why, there's something wicked right there!"

Cynergy smirks, "I'll look quite delectable reaching for another drink and trying not to be sick, eventually, yes." she looks over at you and raises a brow, "Why I'm to think you've had too much already, thinking such things."

Xarlen chuckles softly, settling back onto the tree. "Oh, you'll find I've no need to hit the drink to think of such things. But, can you blame me for considering such things, with the current company I have?

Cynergy seems slowly to become saddened, looking at the ground by her side, "Should I blame you?" she sighs, "I don't think I should, though I... I feel most ill suited for such considerations." Her words have become markedly more formal.

Xarlen looks a little confused, at this. "How so? Why, you seem very considerate to be such; you're a good person to talk to." He inclines his head, listening.

Cynergy shrugs, "I'm can be a good friend, Harlequin, little more. I'm good for some meaningless conversation, yes."

Xarlen turns slightly, leaning his side into the tree, leg curled under him. "But why do you say ill suited?"

Cynergy says, "I've had bad experiences. I know almost everyone has. But rather than pinning hopes on someday trying again, I've finished that part of my life, and made a conscious effort to have my life be fulfilling by other means.""

Xarlen chuckles faintly. "If you wanted to say 'I'm not interested in such', you could've simply said it."

Cynergy blushes a bit, nodding, "I try hard not to be interested in such."

Xarlen tips his head. "Because you don't enjoy it, then? I've met some who are the same."

Cynergy says, "Things of the relationship nature prove too complicated for my tastes. Things change, as they always do, and ..." she sighs, remembering you can handle and even prefer her to be blunt, "I did once enjoy it. My heart was broken, and after I felt I was thinking clearly again, decided it was better to leave the game of love to other players. I don't want to go through it all again.""

Xarlen raises a hand. "True, that one can be quite harshly torn up by such, it is always the risk one takes. However, that risk has a wonderful reward at the end. If you won't take the risk to receive its reward, don't."

Cynergy shrugs, "Perhaps you have heard stories of such rewards being temporary, or preludes to disaster."

Xarlen shrugs his shoulders. "I've not been one to follow a 'giving up' mode of thinking, myself."

Cynergy frowns, "But we speak of such unpleasant things. I mean not to be so stubborn." she considers your words still and scowls, looking up at you, "I'm not giving up."

Xarlen arches a brow. "It certainly sounds as if you are. But, that's what my ears find." A shrug. He settles back against the tree.

Cynergy speaks more softly, smirking, "You are certainly entitled to your opinion. What would you call your own lack of participation in such pursuits?"

Xarlen glances back at you with a chuckle. "Bad luck, and inability to find someone with my...tastes?"

Cynergy nods, "Sooner or later either you'll be successful, or with me in spirit." a faint smile. "This conversation requires several bottles of Elverquist, I think."

Xarlen chuckles. "Ah, finally someone who finds such pleasure in the drink. Even if certain things are not found...at least we have much in common." A sigh. "Good to have a duel drinker.

Cynergy nods, smiling at you fondly, happy you've come to understand how she feels about certain things. "Perhaps you'll come to see that a friendship can be far more intimate than almost any other encounter."

Xarlen nods his head, but sighs as well. "True, but there are some things that even friendships can't offer." He replies, stretching slightly. "I do miss actual forests. This place has no weather, no sunlight."

Cynergy sighs, excusing herself a moment. She closes her eyes and mouths something, but the telling motions of her fingers are most revealing. If you're knowledgeable in magics, you would note the chanting and motions of a simple translocation spell. The air around one of her outstretched hands shimmers and soon it's revealed she's clutching a decanter, her other hand stopping it's motions as well. As soon as her words cease finally, the last hand to move is holding a simple flute, stemware quite obviously from the Wandering Path. She settles back again, placing her flute carefully on the ground and filling it with what is quite obviously Elverquist. "Now then, about a forest. Yes, I cannot believe there's nothing around for a forest, or even gardens, for that matter. The Dammerung has a garden, but there's no mystery in it."

Xarlen seems to shift slightly, turning toward you as you start to cast and cant the spell. His brows raised, fingers brushing over his cane. "You know," He commented, "I hadn't been informed that you had grasp of the Art." He pats the spot where his flask should be. "Good that we won't be draining my supply."

Cynergy fills first her glass and then holds out a hand, "Rather the opposite." She holds a hand out to accept your flask. Not touching the comment about her having some magic ability. Suddenly forward, she just decides to be honest about something, and daringly open. "It bothers me that I cannot see your eyes, Harlequin."

Xarlen, as if it dawns on him, reaches into his cloak and extracts the flask, handing it over, placing it into your hand easily. "Could you fill that up?" A faint smirk, chuckling. "I intend it that way, Cynergy. I may be blind but, light is slightly painful."

Cynergy raises a brow, "You're blind, you can't see at all?"

Cynergy sounds as if she finds this hard to believe.

Xarlen tips his head. "My dear, if I weren't blind, then why would I wear these?" He taps his fingers to the dark glasses.

Cynergy stares at you intently, "Why, to conceal innumerable things. A warrior watches a foe's eyes, not the weapon. the eyes lead a battle. The eyes show emotion. The eyes show much..." she stops and her voice carries a touch of sadness. "It's not of great importance, however."

Xarlen nods his head at that, and returns to settle onto the tree. "Yet, unlike a warrior, I am not your foe; you need not watch mine eyes." He reclines back, visibly relaxing.

Cynergy keeps her voice clear of most of her disappointment. Her voice is more formal sounding again. "Indeed, not foes, Harlequin. I do apologize for offending."

Xarlen makes a shrug. "You did not offend. I just don't like to take them off." A faint smile. "Now, about that Elverquist..."

Cynergy reaches and takes your flask if it is offered, and you can feel her fingers briefly, then sense she relaxes more, filling it. Not as talkative as before, taking your word that you're truly blind finally, she reaches over to take your hand and presses the flask into it, so you don't have to search for it when she offers it back.

Xarlen takes it back, smiling faintly. "Thank you." In the silence that follows, he can feel, at least to him, tension, and something...lost. Lifting the flask to his lips, a small draw is pulled.

Cynergy sits in long silence, for a while listening to your mind, then simply caught up in her own thoughts, "Harlequin?" her voice is soft, far away.

Xarlen tips his head, noting your tone. "Yes, m'lady?" He inquires in gentle tones. "Something on your mind?"

Cynergy says, "I'm sorry if I was too forward. This is another natural tendency of mine that sometimes gets me in trouble. I meant not to offend you. I like you very much. "

Xarlen chuckles softly. "Don't fear. You've not offended me. Sometimes, forwardness is a gift; it makes one stop wondering if what they interpreted or not is correct. Do not fear to be blunt, it erases some of the games." A faint smile. "Though, some games are needed, at times."

Cynergy finishes her drink, and seems about to pour another, but gently lays a hand on your own. "I have to go. Dawn is coming... I've to report to the tower and seek my superior. I'll... I'll be here tonight again though, so maybe we could begin depletion of the Elverquist supply in earnest."

Xarlen smiles softly. "That would be greatly appreciated, m'lady Cynergy. Please, do come back." A pause, "Where would you like to meet? Here?"

Cynergy smiles, you can hear it in her voice.

Cynergy says, "Yes, I'll be here. I am growing rather fond of this tree I think.""

Xarlen lifts a hand, patting the trunk. "Our tree, perhaps."

Cynergy laughs softly, "Indeed, a comforting thought. Until tonight, Harlequin." then she rises and you can hear the rustle of many, many layers of her robes as she moves away.

Xarlen stops before the tree as his cane brushes across the roots. Head turning, "I thought we might try something different, lady Cynergy. I am told your robes are very expensive but..." His cane points towards the branches of the tree, it's leaves dense and full, shielding. "Are you much for climbing?"

Cynergy laughs softly, "Expensive? I... my robes are no matter. I.. you truly mean to climb? I can climb, indeed I love climbing. I could always change my clothing..."

Xarlen nods his head. "I think it better, actually. To sit amid the branches, yes? No less dirty then the ground."

Cynergy nods, smiling a little, "Alright, how then, do we do this?"

Xarlen chuckles. "Simple." He takes his cane, removing a string from a pouch and tying the stick to his belt. "First though..." Hands move quickly, incantations spilling from his lips as magic is weaved. There's a slight feel of magic in the air. He seems done, but continues with another, before hands drop. Finally, the elf moves toward the tree. Fingertips caress, finding a branch and, gauging its support, expertly climbs up to it, agile as a cat. He doesn't seem as skilled as other elves, but there's still skill.

Cynergy without thinking of what she's doing bodily, strips her outermost robe first, laying it gently over a low branch, but folding it enough first so that it's not visible from the ground, hanging down below the foliage. Three other layers follow, until she's in her loose a-line innermost dress. With much of her layers gone, the sheer nature of her dress leaves her less modest than she would like, but thankfully you're unable to see a bit of it, or so she thinks.

Xarlen does pause, a moment, but he seems like a statue upon the branch, an elven gargoyle of the tree. That is, before he climbs to a broader branch, higher up. One with a nearly equal branch just beside it, a perfect place to perch and discuss. "Do come up," he calls down.

Cynergy finishes laying her clothing on a branch, and places the basket in the crook of another. She climbs more slowly, each time making sure the basket won't fall as she puts it on a higher and higher branch. Finally coming close to you she holds with one hand and one leg to the side of the tree, and gently lays the basket on your leg, "Hold this one moment, please? but take care not to lose your own grip.."

Xarlen, carefully, props himself up against the tree and takes the basket. "Do be careful," He offers, head turning as if watching you a moment, before it turns off, as if staring into space. "You know, I like this spot. If any were to be looking in, they wouldn't very well know Where we're at in here. A closer look would be needed."

Cynergy nods, grinning for a moment once she daringly tiptoes out onto her branch, holding onto nothing, just balancing there, utterly excited for that moment to be holding onto nothing. Gracefully she lays a hand on the trunk and cautiously eases herself to side opposite you and takes the basket back once she takes hold with her other hand. "As long as we keep out voices down... no one would suspect to look up, indeed."

Cynergy hangs the basket on a upturning thinner branch on her own, so that it hangs just at her reach, "This tree was made for this, it seems, I wish you could see how the basket fits just... so."

Xarlen nods his head, and drops a hand to the cane, untying it to slide it into his hands. Fingers caress the smooth copper-laced wood. "Yes, it does seem that way. And, with the spells I've used, scrying and magical eavesdropping can't enter the protecting sheet around the tree. Thus, the only way one could spy magically, if they were next to the tree...which they would be seen." His head turns off to the side, as if staring into the leaves. Voice low, "Well, I hope it pleases you to know your wish comes true; I can see it."

Cynergy seems breathless a moment. "But.. you.. how?"

Xarlen brings his hands up to his glasses, and removes them slowly. Turning toward you, eyes closed, he slowly opens them. Vivid eyes gaze back at you, a striking shade of orange. "Because I can see."

Cynergy reaches back to catch a branch, swaying with the shock of your words. Her jaw has dropped, and her blush is as dark as it ever has been, but her eyes stare into yours, wide.

Xarlen looks almost ashamed, for a moment, before he hides the expression as easily as a chameleon blends in among it's surroundings. Glasses returned to his face, the elf gazes away. "If you're embarrassed because of your current attire, or lack there of," He offers with a strained tone of humor, "Don't be. I don't find it wrong or unproper; it is natural, no?" A faint chuckle. "If I may be so bold...I am slightly thankful for it, but also guilty."

Cynergy takes a moment to get her breath, then reaches out as if to stop your from putting your glasses on again, but snatches her hand back, knowing to stop you would be something utterly rude. "Please.. let me see you as you are. I... rather like your eyes." she pauses a moment, thinking, then goes on. "why are you thankful and guilty?"

Xarlen smiles faintly. "Thankful that your attire is so sheer...yet guilty that I put you in a position to be led falsely to think you could do such a thing. As if I were trying to get a peek, if you were..." His hand rises to touch the glasses. "I... I don't want to share my true self, Cynergy." His voice a little urgent. "I do not want it to get to you, I don't want you endangered so."

Cynergy stares at you still, slowly recovering from the shock, but reaching for the glasses and the bottle. She works quickly to open it and pour, hanging you yours and then taking up hers, taking up a deep swallow to wash away the shock. "You're thankful I'm almost naked.. but why? To see that I've not my weapons on me?" she sighs, shaking her head, "I wouldn't be predisposed to think you'd create such an elaborate lie to see me without my clothes. though you're a good liar. That scares me."

Xarlen chuckles darkly. "If only you knew..." A sigh, as he takes a firm swallow from his own glass. "It has been a while since I've been with a woman, yes, I've mentioned that before. It's good to remember what they look like," He attempts to tease. "I don't expect you to backstab me; I'm working with the Governor, to an extent, and I know he doesn't want his people injured." A pause. "Besides, you don't seem like the women who'd do so. I am stepping out on a limb here...figurative and literally, it seems..." He sighs, taking another drink. "I'll be honest with you. I'm in hiding."

Cynergy nods a little, still blushing, "Yes well, I'm nothing special, I suppose I look like any other woman. Or like a very wrong man, take your pick." there's her own attempt at humor. Very softly she speaks her next, "I like you very much. There's not a reason I'd betray you."

Xarlen reaches up, removing his glasses, and places them into a pocket of his cloak. A bubble of laughter pops from him, but it dies down as he turns to look at you, at your eyes. "I've been betrayed many times. It was almost a way of life." He rises the glass to his lips, sipping. "And, you are nothing special, true...but, you are my friend, I would hope, and that's at least something."

Cynergy stares at your eyes, as soon as they are revealed. As you mention you were betrayed her own eyes narrow, just a touch. She takes a breath, another sip, savoring this one, holding it and letting the sweet taste of her sip sit in her mouth a bit, permeating her taste with the flavor of it. Overloading herself with the sense of the drink, she licks her lips, nodding. "Perhaps I will be special because I'm your friend, if only because I'll be the one to not betray you."

Xarlen's smile is genuine. "I would hope," Comes his whisper. Up he draws the cup, taking in his draw and sighing blissfully about it. His eyes drift outward over the leaves and branches. "I would invite you to my home in Dammerung; the walls protect all psionics and magics of prying from the outside." A sigh. "I...have told one person my...reason for being here, for feigning blindness: Dakini." Turning his head back, smiling, "It does good to trust that woman."

Cynergy carefully stands, not thinking much about how she's holding onto things, but still manages to retain her perfect balance. She comes to test your branch, then finding it secure, for she's quite light, settles directly next to you on it, but keeping you on the trunk side, so that it supports your weight better. "I confess to you... oh, I have many things to confess to you." she looks ashamed. "I don't like Dammerung, I meant to say I don't feel comfortable around it, whatever it is, or Lady Stardancer herself." she doesn't explain why though, breezing right by that. "I also... I'm strongly psionic. A blaster, actually... I... I'm learned and trained in telekinesis and .. I'm a born telepath." oh, how soft that last word is, almost a whisper of shame.

Xarlen chuckles faintly at something, drawing on his liqueur. "Tell me, why is it you so enjoy my company? I'm really not much more then a lecherous drinker, and a good liar to boot." He glances at you with a quick wink, before sipping. He does look up as you come to his branch, and he does draw back to offer more room. "No worries, then. I only suggested it for simply telling of...things, since it Is the most protected." A brow lifts, but he does smile. "Truly? Psionics are so...interesting. Why, I would love to implore some in my information gatherings..."

Cynergy blushes madly, "Oh, it's quite the tool for gaining information. I.. I'm not proud of it. I..."

Xarlen chuckles. "Don't be ashamed of it. It's like my magics. It's what you do." He winks. "You never did answer me."

Cynergy says, "I read your mind last night, for a bit. I'm sorry. I know now I should have just waited for you to tell me in your own time, but I know you felt I was prying and that I scared you some when I wanted to look at your eyes but I was only curious, I meant never to scare you!""

Cynergy shakes her head, "I have no idea why I enjoy being with you so much. And then I too have ever idea, for most of it is quite obvious. You're highly intelligent, full or surprises, you make wonderful conversation, and.. well, then there's the lecherous drinker and consummate liar part." she suddenly flashes a dazzling smile. "we like the same things, too."

Xarlen's expression darkens. "And I read your mind, earlier, too." A smirk. "Two wrongs don't make a right, but they make them even, hey?" He takes a quaff of his drink. "Ah, so we Both enjoy being lecherous drinkers." He gawks playfully. "Well, I wouldn't mind seeing more of that side of you. I've already seen most of your sides so far!"

Cynergy blinks, almost loosing her balance for the second time this night. She's appalled you did it, and more shocked that she let her guard down, that she never felt you against her mind in that way. But your next words bring a vicious smirk and a faint blush, "I assure you that what you have seen is nothing impressive." she sips then, for she needs to. "Just please don't... tell anyone you saw me like this." she looks down and is blushing darker and darker.

Xarlen does give some sort of reaction, a mental note, and the spell ends, with that. "You seemed distraught, earlier, and, not about to embarrass you by interrogation, I figured it best to take a faint peek. Do not worry, I haven't looked into any of your memories, I'm not THAT rude but..." he shrugs. "You looked into mine; we're both in the same boat here." A lift of his brow. "Be frank with me: Who would I tell? You are the only person I seem to get along so well in talking to. And I normally try to...blend into the back of the crowd in the Path." Smiling faintly, he tips his head. "And, it's nothing impressive, but still, very beautiful."

Cynergy reaches over and takes your hand. "So then we have secrets with each other." she shrugs, "To be frank with you I would hope you wouldn't tell Lady Stardancer. If you were hearing thought then when you mentioned her I.. I don't trust her, I don't like the way she comports herself. But she has helped me, and I cannot say I know her well, nor she me. I would not want to hurt her, and realize she's a friend of Saf's and yours, my two very new and closest friends." Grinning up at you a little she laughs softly, "Beautiful like your eyes, I suppose. I'm so happy you showed me."

Xarlen smiles softly at that. "You're welcome," He whispers. "Do not worry about Dakini. I do not judge you because you have opinions toward one person or the other; it is your opinion to make. And I won't say a word to her; I read your mind in turn, and you did it out of concern, yes?" He smiles, and so lovingly caresses the inside of your hand, while taking a drink. "When, if, you come to Dammerung with me..." Taking a deep breath, as if making some mental decision, "I will show you my...true likeness."

Cynergy nods, not drawing her hand away, a little relaxed by the touch, even. she's very definitely comforted by your words, you can feel it. "I'll go with you any time you feel ready."

Xarlen nods his head, gazing out. "I appreciate that." Glass rising, he sips, lost in thought and in the taste of his drink. A sudden bolt of laughter rises. "I fear I may grow too under the liqueur to keep myself balanced." Gazing at you, "Which, I brought you up here to show you my eyes..."

Cynergy grins at that, nodding, "shall we go to the ground then, and be protected by one of my own spells? Or are we to return to your room and consume this where you can pass out most comfortably?" She snickers, not saying she won't pass out, but implying you will before she.

Xarlen chuckles faintly. "Actually, shall we retreat to my room, my dear? I'll not be awake much longer," Covering his mouth in a yawn, "I'm quite tired, to be honest." He begins to drain what's left of his glass, which wasn't very full to begin with. "That is, if you wouldn't mind stepping in."

Cynergy shakes her head, reaching to take your glass and laying it, with her own, and the closed bottle, in the basket. "Not at all. Let me descend and then drop the basket down to me? That's fastest I think.." With that she grins and leaps to another branch, lower, and starts hopping down one by one, until she gets to about then feet off the ground, deftly flipping forward onto her feet. Yes, she was dying to do that all night, and is flushed happily on the ground, looking way up at you. Raising her arms she silently offers to catch the basket...

Xarlen easily tosses it down to you, on his own way down. He's less graceful, of course, but he's not stumbling. The elf moves carefully lower, and doesn't do any sort of acrobatics. Dropping to the ground, he takes up his cane, replacing his glasses after a prolong gaze into your eyes.

Cynergy grins all over again, having caught the basket with no problem, and she sets it down to begin the quick work of layering her robes again. She pulls the last on and fluffs her hair, then looks over to catch that look, for a moment unsettled, but then her grin breaks free again, realizing it's not so bad now, now that she knows what are behind the lenses. She takes up the basket again and loops it over her arm, then steps once forward to take your arm.

Xarlen offers to carry Cynergy with him.

Cynergy scrambles up on Xarlen.

Xarlen moves to slip his arm into yours, and with that, starts off toward Dammerung.

Inner Dawnstar
You stand in an airy, spacious room, which nevertheless manages to feel almost cozy. This might be due to the multiple, slightly irregular rows of waist-high protrusions from the floor -- obviously restful beds for the injured. The room is comfortably warm and smells pleasantly neutral -- a kindness for those who find strong scents painful. Niches in the wall by each bed hold neatly rolled bandages, a glass of water, and other useful and applicable tools of the nursing trade. Glow bulbs light the room well, gleaming in regular rows along the ribs of the room, which arch gracefully up to meet high above, somehow muting distant sound to nothing more than a soft murmur. While it's not immediately obvious, the room is tidily warded against technical, magical, or psionic intrusion, along with several other types of less-common protections.

Rennyn Aelorothi is a fairly tall, slender Gold Elf. His stance, although open is rather militaristic in nature. He has fairly long, straight blonde hair, which is left loose and flowing, just past his shoulders. His bangs are kept from falling into his eyes by two 'cowlicks' and an unadorned circlet of gold. His expression is fairly distant and his mannerisms cool and indifferent. He smiles rarely, and when he does it doesn't touch his eyes. His eyes are a deep blue-green, and almost frighteningly void of emotion. If the eyes are truly windows into the soul, this man keeps his soul well hidden behind the mask of his eyes. He is dressed in simple, comfortable bed clothes.

Dakini grins lazily at you from behind the reflective blue-green shades which hide her eyes. Her hair is long and tousled, a bright, red-gold mane that occasionally hides her small pointed ears. She's a tall, slender, strong woman, with small but callused hands, and well-muscled forearms. She wears a soft, comfortably loose, ivory silk shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Over that is a sturdy, quilted, sleeveless tunic of dark indigo blue embroidered with intertwined silvery stars and ivory-gold unicorns. It is belted off snugly with a wide, well-worn leather belt. On her right hip, tied down about the right thigh, rides a holstered flechette pistol. On her left hangs a decorated and runically embossed scabbard with the plain, worn-leather-and-wire wrapped pommel of a short sword protruding from it. Sturdy, worn dueling gloves are tucked into the back of the belt, mostly hiding a cross-holstered dagger. Her long legs are fitted with snug breeches, and her knee-high, well-used black leather boots and jacket smell pleasingly of years of quality leather care.

Dakini is seated cross-legged on a chair next to Rennyn's bed, humming a lilting song she vaguely recalls... very quietly, just to herself and Serak'tin. The little pseudodragon is curled up in her lap, purring contentedly along with her as she gently rubs his ears. The two of them are keeping quiet watch over the Admiral, waiting for Dammerung to decide he's healed up enough to awaken on his own.

Rennyn stirs in his sleep, his eyes opening slowly, blinking against the light of the room. His formerly injured hand is cradled against his body protectively..

Dakini turns her head so she can see the Admiral easily, but quietly continues her soft, reassuring humming -- both for the Admiral's calmness, and for Serak'tin's. The poor little pseudodragon has patiently waited a very long time, after all, for his mage to awaken -- she'd rather he didn't excitedly overreact!

Rennyn rolls to his side, lifting his eyes to the source of the quiet, calming humming. He smiles wearily. "My mother used to sing that to me when I was small..."

Dakini smiles quietly at Rennyn, letting the humming pause long enough to murmur, "There you go, patient one... see? Your mage is awake and all better now." She gently sets the pseudodragon, still carefully curled up, against Rennyn. Then she smiles at Rennyn, her eyes bright with strongly-reined-in interest, "It is... a song with comforting associations for me also." She hesitates, then continues murmuring quietly, "How are you feeling, Admiral? Better, I hope?"

Rennyn strokes the fingers of the hand that wasn't injured between the pseudodragon's wings. "Thank you, Serak'tin..." He looks back at Dakini, "Much better today, thank you. And thank you M'lady.. for your kindness."

Dakini's smile brightens happily, and she takes a long, slow breath... then she nods, still smiling, to Rennyn, "You are more than welcome, Admiral. Er... I should introduce myself, I suppose? I am the Valkyrie Dakini..." she hesitates, then continues, "Dakini Stardancer zu Dammerung. You are currently within Dammerung, in fact... and your hand should be healed by now, sir?"

Rennyn sits up on the bed, taking care to do so slowly enough that he doesn't risk causing a head rush. He takes a look around the room, curiosity showing in his eyes. He flexes the newly healed hand and then turns his attention back to you. He dips his head to you. "A pleasure, Lady Dakini. I'm Admiral Rennyn Aelorothi.. Rennyn Shalean Miritar Aelorthi, properly. Please, call me Rennyn."

Dakini brightens again, happily adding, "Dankeschoen, Adm- er, Rennyn! Please, feel free to call me, um... just Dakini, if you'd like?"

Dakini watches Rennyn with bright-eyed interest, sitting quietly. She doesn't think he'll faint or fall or anything, but even if he does she's in a good position to brace as needed.

Rennyn casts his eyes around the room again, "May I ask what Dammerung is?" He holds his hand up, "this shouldn't have healed nearly this quickly.. I was unsure if I would gain use of it again, in fact."

Dakini beams, looking pleased, "We have an avatar of El- Elis- uhh... -of the Dancing Lady Herself here, as well as Eimi -- between the two of them there wasn't much in the way of injury that could withstand their ministrations! -and Dammerung is an organic being, sir."

Rennyn chuckles softly, "I must be certain to thank them, then.. and thank Dammerung for providing a place for them."

Dakini grins, "I'm sure they'll be by eventually to check on you." She seems quite willing to just happily watch the Admiral... although at some point she'll blink, realizing she's staring, and add, "Er... are you hungry or anything, si- Rennyn?"

Rennyn shakes his head, "Not hungry.. I'm very thirsty, though. Do you think I might have a glass of water?"

Dakini grins and nods cheerfully, "Of course!" She hops up, picking up a glass of cool water from a niche in the wall over the bed, "Here you are. Will you need a bit of support while drinking?"

Rennyn takes the drink gratefully. "I think I can manage, but thank you." He lifts the glass to his lips and takes a long drink of it..

Dakini nods, and continues watching in fascination... almost as if she's memorizing Rennyn.

Rennyn sets the glass down and tilts his head to the side in the classic elven gesture of curiosity. "Hmm?"

Dakini tilts her head a bit self-consciously, looking a tad sheepish, "I'm sorry... I... um, well, I've heard so much about you. It's... rather amazing to actually get to meet you!" She beams in spite of herself.

Rennyn chuckles, a slight blush touching his cheeks. "I'm not quite sure how to react.."

Dakini's cheeks looks a bit flushed also... she hastily looks away for a moment, then coughs once... then says (despite the self-conscious blush) in more business-like tones, "Um... so, are you feeling well enough to talk a bit, Sir Rennyn?"

Dakini says, "And uh... would you like more water?"

Rennyn nods, "I'm certainly feeling well enough.. Is there something wrong?"

Rennyn shakes his head at the offer of water, "No, thank you."

Dakini says, "Nono, just wanting to check on things... we had a few folks who seem to have forgotten part of what happened, so we're checking folks' memories." She fibs gracefully, not wanting to worry him, "So... can you tell me the last thing you recall?"

Rennyn says, "The Man-o-War was caught and grappled by the Deathspider.. They sent a boarding party, mostly consisting of Umber Hulks.. The Hulks came straight for the helm room and starting capturing my officers. One of them caught me.. and knocked me out. I woke up again here.."

Dakini draws a slow, deep breath, her concern showing clearly for a moment... then she sighs softly, relaxing and nodding, "All right... good -- and you're safe here now, and well." She pauses a moment, then adds, "Do you know what happened to Sylune's and Cynergy's ships and crew?"

Rennyn says, "They were lost in the war."

Dakini nods slowly, murmuring, "I feared that was the case..." Her quiet, weary gaze is distant for a moment, perhaps with memories of other times and other wars... then she shakes herself firmly once, turning her attention back to the Admiral and soberly asking, "So the Sunstar is the only ship that managed to return?"

Rennyn says, "I don't know yet. The Oloth Detachment was split up and distributed among other battle groups. I won't know until the other ships are released from their service and begin to return, or I receive dispatches from Fleet Command.."

Dakini looks relieved, "Oh, good! All right, much better news, dankeschoen!"

Dakini blinks at a sudden thought, "Wait... that means the war is still on-going?" She pauses, then adds curiously, "May I ask why the Sunstar returned here then?"

Rennyn frowns a little in thought, "We were in a battle that took a rather bad turn. It was either flee or die."

Dakini nods quietly, "I see... I agree -- the better part of valor in that case is to be able to return another day, indeed."

Dakini looks suddenly concerned, "Does this mean you feel you must return to the war?"

Rennyn says, "I don't know. I'll be sending a message to the Queen to ask for further guidance."

Dakini eyes the admiral thoughtfully, then says carefully, "Umm... I hope you are not in a hurry to do so, if so? I fear the Sunstar will need... um, extensive repairs and down-time?"

Rennyn says, "It will at least a few weeks before I know more, and if the ship needs too much work our shipyards, then more time to send a new ship."

Dakini nods, looking a bit relieved that the prospect of a new ship doesn't dismay Rennyn too much, "Good, good, glad to hear it. Er... how many folks normally crew a spelljammer, if I may ask?"

Rennyn looks thoughtful. "It depends of the type of ship, really.."

Dakini says, "Ah... something like the Sunstar?"

Rennyn says, "Between ten and sixty.."

Dakini nods again, looking relieved. Considering that there are about 40 EIN crew that were recovered, there should be no problem then. She hms... then asks thoughtfully, "Do you have any information you think we should know about the neogi prisoners of war, or the handful of their human and umber hulk slaves that we recovered?"

Rennyn says, "I don't know. The Neogi are not actually involved in this war, so I don't know anything about the slaves that were on the ship. The war is strictly between the Elves and the Goblin-kin.."

Dakini pulls her legs up and wraps her arms around them, resting her chin on her knees. A little disappointedly she murmurs, "So... odds are you'll have to go back then?"

Rennyn shrugs a little, "I'm.. not sure. I may be called back as an individual.. they may decide that they don't need me. I won't know until the Queen decides."

Dakini smiles quietly, her blue-green eyes studying the slender elf. She brushes a scarlet lock of hair from her face, and murmurs, "You'll pardon me, please, if I hope you -- all of you -- get some healing and down time then...?"

Rennyn smiles, "I'll pardon you. I'm rather hoping for that result myself. This is the second Unhuman War that I've been in and I'm tired of it."

Dakini nods quietly, the gently teasing amusement fading from her eyes, "I... quite understand. I don't think anyone truly wins, ever, when it comes to wars..."

Rennyn nods, "Agreed."

Dakini adds a little shyly, "So... um, what are your current plans then?" She pauses, realizing how... forward that sounded, and hastily adds, "Oh, and by the way -- Serak'tin was quite brave and helpful to us -- I thought you might want to know?" She grins mischievously at the little pseudodragon, adding, "He's getting to be quite the dragon, I must say... his own horde and everything!"

Rennyn laughs, "He's incorrigible.. making himself look sad and pathetic for attention and gifts, I suppose? I'm glad that he was so brave.. I worried for him.."

Dakini looks faintly relieved her first question didn't get noticed -- she wasn't sure how she'd explain herself on that one! -and simply laughs, "Oh yes... we were sure he was simply starved constantly, poor fellow!" She grins teasingly at the little pseudodragon, then adds reassuringly, "Don't worry about your horde, brave one... it's hidden safely away in Dammerung due to the war, and I'll show you how you can get to it any time you want."

Rennyn smiles, "Thank you for taking care of him.."

Dakini grins, "Believe me, it was a pleasure! -although..." she gives the pseudodragon a rather sternly amused look, "-had he told us from the start that he spoke the golden tongue excellently, communication would have been much swifter and easier!"

Rennyn laughs. "Maybe he was just being playful?"

Dakini snorts amusedly, "Well, possibly he was just terribly flustered when he first shot into the Path... he kept insisting in broken Common that he had to talk to the governor, and of course the governor wasn't there. Fortunately I recog-" she pauses, wondering how to explain how she knew the Admiral's familiar, "-ahhhh... recognized, um, that he was probably someone's familiar? -and we managed to get him to communicate with us after a bit."

Rennyn says, "It was probably a mistake to send him directly to the governor. He doesn't usually understand that if he can't find the person I'm sending him to, that it's a good idea to find someone else. I'm glad that someone was finally able to make sense of him."

Dakini grins cheerfully, "Well, the rothe jerky didn't hurt any!"

Dakini adds reassuringly, "It took us a bit, but we got the necessary information to formulate good plans... and you're safe and well now -- you and your crew." She smiles, adding quietly, "It... will be nice to have you back here, even if it's only for a short while, sir Rennyn."

Rennyn smiles, "Thank you, Dakini.."

Rennyn says, "I'm sorry.. I think I need to rest a while. Forgive me..."

Rennyn lays back down on the bed, looking a little drawn suddenly.. He closes his eyes and relaxes into sleep..

Dakini smiles unworriedly, "Of course. Rest, please... and if you need anything, just call." She waits until the Admiral lays back down, then gently tucks the sheet in about him and the little pseudodragon, and tiptoes out.

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Last modified: 2001-Mar-24 21:20:14

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