When Anne headed to the arena she didn’t look like herself. It had been ages since hearing from Black and she felt jumpy. Her long hair was now curly, black, and slightly gray at the front. The leather outfit was back, along with cross earrings, and dark shades. Neo and the others didn’t recognize her at first, but Shan and Max did. Stupid smell, she’d have to change that too. After rejecting Max’s kids Anne decided to go for a nice walk around the Isle. She didn’t care where she went, as long as it was away. Her clothes weren’t quite suited to the terrain and she lost her sunglasses. After her hiking adventure she headed straight for the outback. Anne needed a good punch. It was crowded; a couple duels were going on (Klint and Azjah being one) and a lot of onlookers. Anne blended with the crowd until Klinton glanced over and asked how she was. Changing her voice was next on the list after altering her smell.
Anne ended up joining Azjah and Klinton to chat with; she quickly discovered that there were twigs in her hair. It was a nasty mess but soon Anne looked better then when she arrived. Not shortly after the two ladies stripped down to their boxers and tank tops and jumped in the pool. It was a nice cool duel that helped release a lot of energy on Anne’s part.
As she climbed out, Anne saw a certain man start forward and deliberately pass near her. “Interesting look, Ellis...”
Perhaps it was the invigorating duel, or the release of stress, or her submission to instinct. Whatever it was, Anne just grinned, marched up, wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a nice wet hug. “I thought so too.” His smile, if you could call it that, vanished and the look that passed over his face was one of interest perhaps. She released him leaving a very clear smirk upon her features. “I was going to toss you in the pool.”
“Now that, Ellis, would be interesting to see.” The cockiness was back in his voice and the smirk returned.
She could only shake her hand and make one serious comment. “Mr. Feren, you are the most dull and unenthusiastic male I've ever met.”
His chuckle was actually one of amusement. They continued to talk as Anne struggled to dry herself off and get her clothes back one. It surprised them both when he actually took her jacket and helped her put it on. They talked a lot longer then she expected them too, he intrigued her. And she was positive she interested him. At times, it seemed like the man was actually flirting with her. However, he also annoyed her. A straight answer was impossible to get from him. She kept trying to figure out why she had caught his eye. He didn’t seem the sort of man to pick just any girl for a target to toy with.
”Why is it that I, a simple meager, moody, human female, have caught the interest of a very intriguing, enigma of a man such as yourself?” Anne sat on the stool, crossing her arms in an expectant fashion.
“I would hardly call one such of yourself, and in your line of profession; simple, meager, or moody...” His smile, however tempting, was in fact provocative.
The pirate only glared in return. “An answer if you will to my previous question.” It took all her effort to force down a haughty look.
The man just smiled again, yes, now he was toying with her. “I said it before... you look good mad. And wet”
“Will you...stop...toying with me!” Anne was clearly frustrated and flustered.
He nodded, her outburst making her look better in his eyes. “Yep.. you do look good when mad.” Anne went through an inner conflict of smacking him or not. His smirk was infuriating.
She slid off her stool getting right in his face. “You're playing with me. And I don't like it.” When he set his glass of vodka down and turned he found the pirate in his face all flushed with anger. The smirk vanished, and quickly, the look that passed over his face was serious, and almost … dangerous. Anne narrowed her eyes speaking softly. “You don’t scare me.”
His hand came up quickly, and wrapped around the base of her neck, for a fleeting moment she though he’d strangle her. Though he only leaned in closer, if that was possible, and his voice was a deathly whisper. “Good.”Out of all the things she expected, the hard but tender kiss was not one of them. A minute later she stood there in shock trying to figure out just why he did that. They talked even later that night and, with a little convincing, he escorted her to a bed. For some reason she knew he wouldn’t take advantage of her like Shadem Black did.
Late the night she was still sitting up the huge bed. The library itself was big, and all the space scared her a bit. She had no idea where Mr. Feren was, and that scared her too. Not because she was afraid of him, but because she needed to know where her guide and in a way, protector, was. Mere hours before the sun rose Anne fell asleep.
Anne Ellis Xile
Moderator: Azjah von Drachen Walde
An Enigma
The trial had been very long that day, countless witnesses, barrels of evidence, and it got them nowhere. As she headed to the Outback, a bunch of teenagers came after her with water balloons, water guns, and a nasty sign. She was none too pleased when she entered the arena. However, once she entered, who else would she see but Rhaine! It was all Anne could do to keep herself from rushing into hug her. Anne also received a gift from Artemus. A cat-of-nine tails made of black braided leather. The ends were silver tipped and had a red glow. The handle was a bit long made of the same leather, but a bit tougher so that it was easier to grip and harder to be pulled from her hand. He also explained it had some magical properties. After receiving the whip, Anne and Rhaine went to check on the kids. After a lot of inner-debating (though she was verbal about all of her thought process) Anne returned to the Isle with Rhaine without the twins.
Needing to sort out everything she headed straight for the bar and lay her head on the counter. The moment he entered Anne groaned inwardly, she had a short temper, was short on sleep, and was in no mood for his games. When he greeted her she noticed that the term “Ellis” had been used.
“You called me Ellis.”
“I was not given permission to call you otherwise.” Why was his smirk so provoking yet so attractive?
“You've always called me Xile before, and I never told you my middle name was Ellis. What else do you know about me?” He mentioned that it was a mere slip. Not like him at all, and once again, he had avoided her question.
“What else do I know of you? Only what I have heard.”
“Oh that's just great. You must have a pretty horrid picture of me then.”
“I make my own judgments…”
“If it's based upon others information of me, then it can't be good. Not that I don't agree with them.”
“Their opinions are biased.. Mine is objective.”
Artemus had been sitting there waiting for her, she glanced from him to the man she was interrogating. An escape was very welcome at this point. “What's your verdict?”
“The jury is still out on deliberation.”
“I've had enough of legalities thank you very much.” Her scowl was meant to end the discussion, but he pressed forward.
“Ahh, but I'm not sentencing you.”
The pirates look darkened. “That's not funny.” All he did was shrug. “Unbelievable!” She didn’t want to get frustrated at him again but it happened. “You're still toying with me, like I'm some sort of experiment you just can't wait to manipulate! No consideration whatsoever.”
Caleb chuckled again, and lifted his glass, all most as a toast. “Once more, you look good when you're mad.”
Anne slammed her drink down to face him. “Really? Is that why you kissed me last night? Or was it just part of your twisted little game.”
“Ahh… you believe me to playing you as if you were a game. So that's what this is...”
He was twisting her words, and Anne was not amused. “I've had enough bull from men like you, thinking they're all so mighty, that you can just do what you want with a woman and leave her hanging dry. I've got two kids now because some idiot did just that. I'm going to ask you again, why am I your target?”
She had hit something there, for his features were soon emotionless and his voice calm. No smirks, no dangerous smiles, just plain business. Just like Black. “You believe I am toying with you, playing you, yet when asked if I would take advantage of you late eve, I said no and kept my word...”
“You can still toy with a woman and not take advantage of her.” He mentioned that her last statement contradicted her. Anne was never good when it came to verbal banter. “My last statement said that a particular man did take advantage of me, but I've been toyed with in many ways, that is merely one of the many options as to how.” It annoyed her, losing her temper at a man who had helped her. She ran a hand back through her black hair and took a long drink of water. Perhaps it would disguise her tears. Caleb asked if she’d prefer that he returned to the shadows. Anne answered saying that he shouldn’t do that because of her short temper.
”You must think me insane.”
“And one in a profession such as yours must be a touch so.”
Anne stood up, informed both him and Artemus she was going to go for a walk. The docks were begging her to visit.
Needing to sort out everything she headed straight for the bar and lay her head on the counter. The moment he entered Anne groaned inwardly, she had a short temper, was short on sleep, and was in no mood for his games. When he greeted her she noticed that the term “Ellis” had been used.
“You called me Ellis.”
“I was not given permission to call you otherwise.” Why was his smirk so provoking yet so attractive?
“You've always called me Xile before, and I never told you my middle name was Ellis. What else do you know about me?” He mentioned that it was a mere slip. Not like him at all, and once again, he had avoided her question.
“What else do I know of you? Only what I have heard.”
“Oh that's just great. You must have a pretty horrid picture of me then.”
“I make my own judgments…”
“If it's based upon others information of me, then it can't be good. Not that I don't agree with them.”
“Their opinions are biased.. Mine is objective.”
Artemus had been sitting there waiting for her, she glanced from him to the man she was interrogating. An escape was very welcome at this point. “What's your verdict?”
“The jury is still out on deliberation.”
“I've had enough of legalities thank you very much.” Her scowl was meant to end the discussion, but he pressed forward.
“Ahh, but I'm not sentencing you.”
The pirates look darkened. “That's not funny.” All he did was shrug. “Unbelievable!” She didn’t want to get frustrated at him again but it happened. “You're still toying with me, like I'm some sort of experiment you just can't wait to manipulate! No consideration whatsoever.”
Caleb chuckled again, and lifted his glass, all most as a toast. “Once more, you look good when you're mad.”
Anne slammed her drink down to face him. “Really? Is that why you kissed me last night? Or was it just part of your twisted little game.”
“Ahh… you believe me to playing you as if you were a game. So that's what this is...”
He was twisting her words, and Anne was not amused. “I've had enough bull from men like you, thinking they're all so mighty, that you can just do what you want with a woman and leave her hanging dry. I've got two kids now because some idiot did just that. I'm going to ask you again, why am I your target?”
She had hit something there, for his features were soon emotionless and his voice calm. No smirks, no dangerous smiles, just plain business. Just like Black. “You believe I am toying with you, playing you, yet when asked if I would take advantage of you late eve, I said no and kept my word...”
“You can still toy with a woman and not take advantage of her.” He mentioned that her last statement contradicted her. Anne was never good when it came to verbal banter. “My last statement said that a particular man did take advantage of me, but I've been toyed with in many ways, that is merely one of the many options as to how.” It annoyed her, losing her temper at a man who had helped her. She ran a hand back through her black hair and took a long drink of water. Perhaps it would disguise her tears. Caleb asked if she’d prefer that he returned to the shadows. Anne answered saying that he shouldn’t do that because of her short temper.
”You must think me insane.”
“And one in a profession such as yours must be a touch so.”
Anne stood up, informed both him and Artemus she was going to go for a walk. The docks were begging her to visit.
Anne Ellis Feren
An Enigma Part 2
Anne’s trip to the dock took a turn for the worst. She was standing on the rough planks trying to figure out Mr. Feren when someone approached. Turning a millisecond too late, Anne felt someone’s forearms connect at the base of her neck. The pirate lay on her back looking into stars. Next thing she knew someone was grabbing her and pulling her up. She ducked under the punch aimed at her face, and tried to kick the feet out from under whoever it was. While she was concentrating on the body in front of her, someone came from behind felt her up, and then pushed her into the water. Before losing balance, Anne grabbed the man who had attacked her at first, and brought him down. It was the under water match with Azjah all over again. A few dunks, kicks, and a punch then the man was down. The pirate pulled herself back up onto the dock and lay there breathing heavily. The guy’s buddy had run off, and after thorough searching, Anne realized he had her wallet.
When she arrived on the Isle Anne was thoroughly disheartened. There was a time when Anne was the one mugging, not getting mugged. She avoided any inquiries from Azjah, Mr. Feren, Neo and who ever else happened to ask. Grinding her broken glasses with her heel into a firm powder she muttered. That was the second time she had gotten wet today, and the hot chocolate she ordered was way too hot. What a day. It was surprising that her enigma of a man hadn’t made a comment thus far.
“I would think that me opening my mouth would only prompt your anger more, after our encounter at the Outback.”
Anne sighed; she really shouldn’t let her nerves get the better of her. “You didn't deserve that...sorry.” Heading over to him she finished lamely. “I've got no excuse.”
The man was as patient as ever. “I deserve many things...”
“That was not one of them though. I've been very emotional lately, and I took it out on you. It wasn't appropriate, nor mature of me.”
“But it was nice to watch…” as per normal the man smirked. Not knowing what else to do she gave him another wet, sopping hug. It was a trend that had no affect on Mr. Feren, he seemed foreign to physical contact. They talked casually for a long time, and eventually the topic wound itself to sleeping arrangements. Anne found out that he had slept on the floor the night before, while she had enjoyed a very comfortable bed.
The two of them argued about where she would sleep and where he would sleep. The pirate didn’t dislike Caleb enough to force him onto a wooden floor. When they went to pick up her kids Anne advised him to remain outside the guild. She collected her charges and then proceeded to the Death Mage. Besides the supplies she had been gathering to prepare for the daunting task of motherhood, there were various blankets. His floor would at least be padded.
When she arrived on the Isle Anne was thoroughly disheartened. There was a time when Anne was the one mugging, not getting mugged. She avoided any inquiries from Azjah, Mr. Feren, Neo and who ever else happened to ask. Grinding her broken glasses with her heel into a firm powder she muttered. That was the second time she had gotten wet today, and the hot chocolate she ordered was way too hot. What a day. It was surprising that her enigma of a man hadn’t made a comment thus far.
“I would think that me opening my mouth would only prompt your anger more, after our encounter at the Outback.”
Anne sighed; she really shouldn’t let her nerves get the better of her. “You didn't deserve that...sorry.” Heading over to him she finished lamely. “I've got no excuse.”
The man was as patient as ever. “I deserve many things...”
“That was not one of them though. I've been very emotional lately, and I took it out on you. It wasn't appropriate, nor mature of me.”
“But it was nice to watch…” as per normal the man smirked. Not knowing what else to do she gave him another wet, sopping hug. It was a trend that had no affect on Mr. Feren, he seemed foreign to physical contact. They talked casually for a long time, and eventually the topic wound itself to sleeping arrangements. Anne found out that he had slept on the floor the night before, while she had enjoyed a very comfortable bed.
The two of them argued about where she would sleep and where he would sleep. The pirate didn’t dislike Caleb enough to force him onto a wooden floor. When they went to pick up her kids Anne advised him to remain outside the guild. She collected her charges and then proceeded to the Death Mage. Besides the supplies she had been gathering to prepare for the daunting task of motherhood, there were various blankets. His floor would at least be padded.
Anne Ellis Feren
-
Azjah von Drachen Walde
- Expert Adventurer
- Posts: 1138
- Joined: Mon Apr 04, 2005 1:13 am
- Location: Palazzo Drachen Walde
- Contact:
Terror of Children
I walked into the Outback to find Anne already there, only tonight she had the stroller and her fast growing twins in her care. Now, there are few things in life that intimidate me, but babies are very near the top of that list.
Anne glanced up tiredly from her papers, “I’m truly not ready for this.”
I gave her a smile, giving the stroller a wide berth since people like to foist their children on unsuspecting people, “This being the conclusion of the trial, or This being a parent?”
Her tone was resigned, “Both. I’m not ready to testify, or to raise kids.”
I took a seat and told her that since we can’t stop either one, we’d just have to tackle them both head on.
She gave me both children’s names, explaining that Katharine was named for her mother and Christopher was named for Nathaniel’s brother, who had been slain by Black, the man who’s raped her.
Klinton arrived some while later, and he made straight for Anne’s children. I watched in fascinated horror as he picked up Christopher and began cooing to him. The female child began crawling in my direction, and I curled my legs up beneath me the closer she got. As Klinton grabbed up both children, I heaved a silent sigh of relief, but that was too soon, because he promptly deposited the boy child into my arms. I held the baby at arm’s length, “I’m not very good with little ones…” wanting desperately to get someone to take the child off my hands.
“See, he’s fine!” Klinton laughed at me, and as the female yanked his hair, “this one on the other hand….” Klinton glanced up at Gabriel, “aren’t you supposed to keep us from getting injured?”
I nearly laughed when Gabriel told him that this situation didn’t count.
I rose from my chair heading towards Rhaine, hoping to get her to hold the child when Klinton’s voice reached me, “Azjah, don’t you dare put down that baby!”
I paused, turned around, still holding him at arm’s length – “but…..”
“He’s happy! You’ll just have to get used to it sometime! We are getting married after all.” He was watching my every move intently.
He might be happy, but I on the other hand was not happy. I gave Rhaine one last beseeching look before looking back at Klinton, “I do? I though married meant you and I…. when did children get brought into it?”
He gave me a look that rocked me deeply, “You don’t want children? You’re doing great with him by the way.”
The child dangled at arm’s length, “we haven’t had that particular discussion,” was all I could say to him. Children? I would never survive!
He frowned, “no, we haven’t, but I suppose we should.”
The child in my arms began to cry, and panic reared it’s head – what the devil would I do with a crying child? “He does NOT like me!”
Klinton gave me a half smile, “then why does he want you to hold him??? I think he likes you a lot! In fact, I’m jealous!”
I glanced around for Anne, “ANNE! What the hell do I do?”
She jumped, “hold him for gosh sakes!”
I headed back toward Klinton since I was having no success getting Rhaine to take him off my hands, and deposited the squirming mass onto his lap, “here, they like you.”
I sat down beside Klinton and the rotten scoundrel promptly deposited Christopher onto my knee, holding him there, “there, you don’t have to do anything! Just sit.” The entire time I had visions of wet diapers ruining my trousers!
Klinton was teasing with Anne as I contemplated a means of escape, and suddenly I heard him say, “I’ll let you babysit for us when Azjah and I have some!”
I went paler still, “when we….. have what?”
He grinned happily at me, “Kids! I want at least four.”
Oh no! this was NEVER part of the bargain! “can we adopt them, say around age 18?”
We discussed all the reasons why it would be advantageous to adopt them just as they were about to leave home when Anne chimed up, “Azjah, if I have to go through it, you’re coming along for the ride, even if it means you babysit for me.”
At length, Klinton scooped up the child, gave Gabriel a long suffering look, “Ya think I’ll ever get to have kids?”
Gabriel’s expression was saturnine, “That sir, depends on you.” I stuck my tongue out at him as Klinton quipped back, “Well, my boys can swim! I assure you of that!”
As Christopher fell asleep in his arms, he gave me a serious look, “you really don’t want kids?”
Curling away from the crawling girl child trying to climb up my chair, “I have never thought about it. They terrify me.”
His expression was crushingly sad, “you of all people, terrified of kids?”
As the girl child started to climb up my chair, I shrank further back, “Anne?”
She headed over, picked up the little urchin and plopped her into my lap, “Oh for goodness sakes Azjah!”
There was no suppressing the yelp as the squirming bundle grabbed a fist full of silk blouse. Klinton told me to bounce her, but I was too engaged in trying to keep it away from my clothes. Anne asked Klinton while I was fighting off the little octopus if he’d like to watch them while we were at the trial tomorrow. Reflexively, I shouted “NO! I’ll hire a nanny!”
Anne laughed at me, “Azjah, you will be with me at the trial. Don’t worry.”
Klinton agreed happily to watch the two bundles of destruction. He placed Christopher gently into the stroller as the child had fallen asleep, and I tried to hand him Katharine, but he wouldn’t take her, citing the fact that she was not yet asleep.
I gave him a chagrinned smile, “You worked wonders on that one.”
Anne took the child, “I guess you’re going to need as much practice if not more than I am.” The child seemed very happy in her mother’s arm, but it wasn’t long before she was reaching once more toward me, and I curled both hands around my scotch glass to appear too busy to hold her yet again. Anne grinned, “Come on, just take her, I swear, if she makes one move towards your hair I’ll take her back.”
“She’s happy with you,” I told her and rose quickly. I needed to escape, and Klinton was in the ring, so I headed for the back room. Anne put the child into the stroller and headed out for the remainder of the evening.
What a night!
((Cross Posted at Anne's request))
Anne glanced up tiredly from her papers, “I’m truly not ready for this.”
I gave her a smile, giving the stroller a wide berth since people like to foist their children on unsuspecting people, “This being the conclusion of the trial, or This being a parent?”
Her tone was resigned, “Both. I’m not ready to testify, or to raise kids.”
I took a seat and told her that since we can’t stop either one, we’d just have to tackle them both head on.
She gave me both children’s names, explaining that Katharine was named for her mother and Christopher was named for Nathaniel’s brother, who had been slain by Black, the man who’s raped her.
Klinton arrived some while later, and he made straight for Anne’s children. I watched in fascinated horror as he picked up Christopher and began cooing to him. The female child began crawling in my direction, and I curled my legs up beneath me the closer she got. As Klinton grabbed up both children, I heaved a silent sigh of relief, but that was too soon, because he promptly deposited the boy child into my arms. I held the baby at arm’s length, “I’m not very good with little ones…” wanting desperately to get someone to take the child off my hands.
“See, he’s fine!” Klinton laughed at me, and as the female yanked his hair, “this one on the other hand….” Klinton glanced up at Gabriel, “aren’t you supposed to keep us from getting injured?”
I nearly laughed when Gabriel told him that this situation didn’t count.
I rose from my chair heading towards Rhaine, hoping to get her to hold the child when Klinton’s voice reached me, “Azjah, don’t you dare put down that baby!”
I paused, turned around, still holding him at arm’s length – “but…..”
“He’s happy! You’ll just have to get used to it sometime! We are getting married after all.” He was watching my every move intently.
He might be happy, but I on the other hand was not happy. I gave Rhaine one last beseeching look before looking back at Klinton, “I do? I though married meant you and I…. when did children get brought into it?”
He gave me a look that rocked me deeply, “You don’t want children? You’re doing great with him by the way.”
The child dangled at arm’s length, “we haven’t had that particular discussion,” was all I could say to him. Children? I would never survive!
He frowned, “no, we haven’t, but I suppose we should.”
The child in my arms began to cry, and panic reared it’s head – what the devil would I do with a crying child? “He does NOT like me!”
Klinton gave me a half smile, “then why does he want you to hold him??? I think he likes you a lot! In fact, I’m jealous!”
I glanced around for Anne, “ANNE! What the hell do I do?”
She jumped, “hold him for gosh sakes!”
I headed back toward Klinton since I was having no success getting Rhaine to take him off my hands, and deposited the squirming mass onto his lap, “here, they like you.”
I sat down beside Klinton and the rotten scoundrel promptly deposited Christopher onto my knee, holding him there, “there, you don’t have to do anything! Just sit.” The entire time I had visions of wet diapers ruining my trousers!
Klinton was teasing with Anne as I contemplated a means of escape, and suddenly I heard him say, “I’ll let you babysit for us when Azjah and I have some!”
I went paler still, “when we….. have what?”
He grinned happily at me, “Kids! I want at least four.”
Oh no! this was NEVER part of the bargain! “can we adopt them, say around age 18?”
We discussed all the reasons why it would be advantageous to adopt them just as they were about to leave home when Anne chimed up, “Azjah, if I have to go through it, you’re coming along for the ride, even if it means you babysit for me.”
At length, Klinton scooped up the child, gave Gabriel a long suffering look, “Ya think I’ll ever get to have kids?”
Gabriel’s expression was saturnine, “That sir, depends on you.” I stuck my tongue out at him as Klinton quipped back, “Well, my boys can swim! I assure you of that!”
As Christopher fell asleep in his arms, he gave me a serious look, “you really don’t want kids?”
Curling away from the crawling girl child trying to climb up my chair, “I have never thought about it. They terrify me.”
His expression was crushingly sad, “you of all people, terrified of kids?”
As the girl child started to climb up my chair, I shrank further back, “Anne?”
She headed over, picked up the little urchin and plopped her into my lap, “Oh for goodness sakes Azjah!”
There was no suppressing the yelp as the squirming bundle grabbed a fist full of silk blouse. Klinton told me to bounce her, but I was too engaged in trying to keep it away from my clothes. Anne asked Klinton while I was fighting off the little octopus if he’d like to watch them while we were at the trial tomorrow. Reflexively, I shouted “NO! I’ll hire a nanny!”
Anne laughed at me, “Azjah, you will be with me at the trial. Don’t worry.”
Klinton agreed happily to watch the two bundles of destruction. He placed Christopher gently into the stroller as the child had fallen asleep, and I tried to hand him Katharine, but he wouldn’t take her, citing the fact that she was not yet asleep.
I gave him a chagrinned smile, “You worked wonders on that one.”
Anne took the child, “I guess you’re going to need as much practice if not more than I am.” The child seemed very happy in her mother’s arm, but it wasn’t long before she was reaching once more toward me, and I curled both hands around my scotch glass to appear too busy to hold her yet again. Anne grinned, “Come on, just take her, I swear, if she makes one move towards your hair I’ll take her back.”
“She’s happy with you,” I told her and rose quickly. I needed to escape, and Klinton was in the ring, so I headed for the back room. Anne put the child into the stroller and headed out for the remainder of the evening.
What a night!
((Cross Posted at Anne's request))
Azjah Telyria Danaan
Marchioness von Triberg
Baroness von Drachen Walde
Marchioness von Triberg
Baroness von Drachen Walde
-
Rhaine
- Seasoned Adventurer
- Black in Mind
- Posts: 353
- Joined: Thu Dec 09, 2004 9:43 pm
- Location: Citadel Nessus
Now as Anne was back in RhyDin, living and relatively safe, and Rhaine had little else to do, she seriously considered making the one who cast the undeath-bringing spell pay for that. She could clearly decipher the "power signature" of the spell - the way it was cast, the spectral patterns of the one who dared to cast it... The one who dared to harm her friend. Well, that would be a good lesson for other undertrained creatures who meddle with life and death!
She went to the hangar, and was immersed into warm, soothing embrace of neurointerface. DarSai was happy to see her pilot living and unharmed. Stealth mode activated, the sleek ship dashed into the night sky.
============================================
Onaenia was sleepless - probably there was some danger sense that made her stay awake. There was no sound - and suddenly the doors into her room burst open, knocked out by a single blow. A short, slim figure appeared in the darkness of corridor. Grey hair fell in soft tresses on her shoulders. Onaenia rose from her desk, where she had been reading a black-bound tome. The strange woman stepped in, and in a simple gesture threw up her hand.
Words froze in Onaenia's mouth. She was unable to breathe for some reason. Instinctively she tried to defend herself, but her defenses were smitten as if they never existed. Tentacles of pallid white mist curled around witch's wrists and throat. The stranger eyed her coldly, and returned her ability to breathe. Onaenia inhaled deeply.
"Who are you?" she asked. Probably this was not the smartest thing to ask... but she sensed the strange aura around the woman. Her question triggered a cold smile that could chill blood in a fire elemental. White fangs were an odd contrast to stranger's lips.
"You have meddled with my spell, dhoine. Something I dislike."
A vampire! But what was worse... the vampire had the gift of magic she did not know or understand. The vampire only looked at her - and suddenly the woman felt sharp pain touching her fingertips. Pain crawled up her hands... Onaenia looked at her palm. Her flesh was untouched. Pain originated only in her nerves.
"Who are you? and what are you doing here, vampire?" she asked more confidently.
"You have harmed my friend, dhoine.... Onaenia," vampiress was obviously reading her thoughts. "I doubt you did it on your own accord. I do not see unnecessary aggression in you. Who made you do this?"
"As if I would answer to you, vampire".
"You will. If not the good way - it would be the bad way". Vampire grinned, and suddenly necromancer felt... burning hot.
The burning and strange pricklish feeling were tolerable at first. But soon blood capillaries in her hands started to burst. Reddish-blue spread up to her wrists. When reddish color went up, veins and arteries burst. At the same time, flesh on her fingers turned to thick liquid. Pain seared Onaenia.
"You will name them aloud. Now."
Necromancer screamed out the names. Vampire smiled icily.
"Good girl. However I did not promise to stop."
Gradual decomposition continued. Acid from stomach that burst, seared necromancer's insides... Nerves flared with sudden pain, almost tying Onaenia in knots. Torture lasted for what seemed like infinity. In the end, vampiress left only a skeleton of dark mage in a puddle of odd liquid and rags left of robes. She had her targets.
She went to the hangar, and was immersed into warm, soothing embrace of neurointerface. DarSai was happy to see her pilot living and unharmed. Stealth mode activated, the sleek ship dashed into the night sky.
============================================
Onaenia was sleepless - probably there was some danger sense that made her stay awake. There was no sound - and suddenly the doors into her room burst open, knocked out by a single blow. A short, slim figure appeared in the darkness of corridor. Grey hair fell in soft tresses on her shoulders. Onaenia rose from her desk, where she had been reading a black-bound tome. The strange woman stepped in, and in a simple gesture threw up her hand.
Words froze in Onaenia's mouth. She was unable to breathe for some reason. Instinctively she tried to defend herself, but her defenses were smitten as if they never existed. Tentacles of pallid white mist curled around witch's wrists and throat. The stranger eyed her coldly, and returned her ability to breathe. Onaenia inhaled deeply.
"Who are you?" she asked. Probably this was not the smartest thing to ask... but she sensed the strange aura around the woman. Her question triggered a cold smile that could chill blood in a fire elemental. White fangs were an odd contrast to stranger's lips.
"You have meddled with my spell, dhoine. Something I dislike."
A vampire! But what was worse... the vampire had the gift of magic she did not know or understand. The vampire only looked at her - and suddenly the woman felt sharp pain touching her fingertips. Pain crawled up her hands... Onaenia looked at her palm. Her flesh was untouched. Pain originated only in her nerves.
"Who are you? and what are you doing here, vampire?" she asked more confidently.
"You have harmed my friend, dhoine.... Onaenia," vampiress was obviously reading her thoughts. "I doubt you did it on your own accord. I do not see unnecessary aggression in you. Who made you do this?"
"As if I would answer to you, vampire".
"You will. If not the good way - it would be the bad way". Vampire grinned, and suddenly necromancer felt... burning hot.
The burning and strange pricklish feeling were tolerable at first. But soon blood capillaries in her hands started to burst. Reddish-blue spread up to her wrists. When reddish color went up, veins and arteries burst. At the same time, flesh on her fingers turned to thick liquid. Pain seared Onaenia.
"You will name them aloud. Now."
Necromancer screamed out the names. Vampire smiled icily.
"Good girl. However I did not promise to stop."
Gradual decomposition continued. Acid from stomach that burst, seared necromancer's insides... Nerves flared with sudden pain, almost tying Onaenia in knots. Torture lasted for what seemed like infinity. In the end, vampiress left only a skeleton of dark mage in a puddle of odd liquid and rags left of robes. She had her targets.
-
Azjah von Drachen Walde
- Expert Adventurer
- Posts: 1138
- Joined: Mon Apr 04, 2005 1:13 am
- Location: Palazzo Drachen Walde
- Contact:
Marchioness Testifies
Defense calls Azjah Telyria Danaan, Baroness von Drachen Walde, Marchioness von Triberg to the witness stand.
Well, it began.
I was sworn in, “For the record, please state your name.”
“Azjah Telyria Danaan,” I stated.
“Please be seated Marchioness.”
I took the stand and faced a room full of people. Some overtly hostile, some merely curious, and some who’s reasons for being there were completely unknown to me.
“Marchioness, how long have you known the defendant?”
“I have known Anne for about 7 months now.”
“Are you Ms. Xile’s current employer?”
“Yes, I am.”
“Would you explain to the Court how you came to be her employer?”
“I needed someone with a background dealing with shipping, transportation of goods, and availing themselves of ways around various forms of goods interception. I’d heard about Anne’s background, and answered an ad when she posted a need for a job after I’d had her thoroughly investigated.”
“You had Ms. Xile investigated before you interviewed and hired her?”
“Yes.”
“What information did you gain about Ms. Xile?”
“Anne has been widely traveled. She was born in a country called France. She was raised for a number of years by merchant/explorer parents until such time as she needed to attend school. She was educated in France with Nadine and Donatien Montargue. Anne was lost at sea and picked up by pirates where she was forced to serve. It was during that time that she met Nathaniel and Robyn. The captain of their ship was Shadem Black. To escape him, they had to mutiny. For a number of years Anne formed her own small trade group, and learned the art of avoiding customs, search and seizure. I hired her for her experience because the goods I ship simply cannot fall into the wrong hands.”
“You hired Ms Xile knowing she was involved in pursuits outside the law?”
“Yes. She wanted a new life, she had the skills I needed, and it was mutually beneficial.”
“Did you know she had ties to the Saar’Tzee rebels?”
I could feel the blood leave my face, “no.”
“You did not know she’s worked with a man named Raavich?”
Memories flooded back with clarity that was startling. The torment, the abuse, the rapes. “No.”
“Now that you know, would you have still hired Ms. Xile?”
I looked long at Anne, “I know that she left that partnership before I hired her. I would still hire Anne today.”
There was murmuring in the courtroom. I couldn’t look at Klinton. We’d both gone through periods of wondering whether Anne had had anything to do with his abduction. But we do not believe it now. We cannot believe it now.
“Do you have anything you would like to add?”
“Anne is no angel, but neither is she the devil she’s been portrayed to be. Her exemplary service to Drachen Walde Industries should be worth consideration.”
The prosecution waived it’s cross examination at this time, and I stepped down from the witness stand. I can only hope that Rhaine is able to bring her two parties here in time.
Well, it began.
I was sworn in, “For the record, please state your name.”
“Azjah Telyria Danaan,” I stated.
“Please be seated Marchioness.”
I took the stand and faced a room full of people. Some overtly hostile, some merely curious, and some who’s reasons for being there were completely unknown to me.
“Marchioness, how long have you known the defendant?”
“I have known Anne for about 7 months now.”
“Are you Ms. Xile’s current employer?”
“Yes, I am.”
“Would you explain to the Court how you came to be her employer?”
“I needed someone with a background dealing with shipping, transportation of goods, and availing themselves of ways around various forms of goods interception. I’d heard about Anne’s background, and answered an ad when she posted a need for a job after I’d had her thoroughly investigated.”
“You had Ms. Xile investigated before you interviewed and hired her?”
“Yes.”
“What information did you gain about Ms. Xile?”
“Anne has been widely traveled. She was born in a country called France. She was raised for a number of years by merchant/explorer parents until such time as she needed to attend school. She was educated in France with Nadine and Donatien Montargue. Anne was lost at sea and picked up by pirates where she was forced to serve. It was during that time that she met Nathaniel and Robyn. The captain of their ship was Shadem Black. To escape him, they had to mutiny. For a number of years Anne formed her own small trade group, and learned the art of avoiding customs, search and seizure. I hired her for her experience because the goods I ship simply cannot fall into the wrong hands.”
“You hired Ms Xile knowing she was involved in pursuits outside the law?”
“Yes. She wanted a new life, she had the skills I needed, and it was mutually beneficial.”
“Did you know she had ties to the Saar’Tzee rebels?”
I could feel the blood leave my face, “no.”
“You did not know she’s worked with a man named Raavich?”
Memories flooded back with clarity that was startling. The torment, the abuse, the rapes. “No.”
“Now that you know, would you have still hired Ms. Xile?”
I looked long at Anne, “I know that she left that partnership before I hired her. I would still hire Anne today.”
There was murmuring in the courtroom. I couldn’t look at Klinton. We’d both gone through periods of wondering whether Anne had had anything to do with his abduction. But we do not believe it now. We cannot believe it now.
“Do you have anything you would like to add?”
“Anne is no angel, but neither is she the devil she’s been portrayed to be. Her exemplary service to Drachen Walde Industries should be worth consideration.”
The prosecution waived it’s cross examination at this time, and I stepped down from the witness stand. I can only hope that Rhaine is able to bring her two parties here in time.
Azjah Telyria Danaan
Marchioness von Triberg
Baroness von Drachen Walde
Marchioness von Triberg
Baroness von Drachen Walde
Gabriel headed back to the Palazzo to view the crystal once more before Rhaine came for him.
Why in the name of Anubis he was agreeing was anyone's guess.
Nadine. The woman was going to be easy enough.
Black. Were it not for the fact that they had to bring them back alive, he'd be more than happy to show that one what a true monster was.
Why in the name of Anubis he was agreeing was anyone's guess.
Nadine. The woman was going to be easy enough.
Black. Were it not for the fact that they had to bring them back alive, he'd be more than happy to show that one what a true monster was.
Gabriel Datrazanov
Sleepless Nights
Anne was getting sick of the trial, to the point where she was willing to throw herself to the wolves. There had recently been an evening where she forgot everything. Her two favorite men where at the arena, Mr. Feren and Vincent Smith. It had been an interesting night that started off with a fight against Skyler. Despite his claim to have thrown the match, Anne won it handily. That night Mr. Feren escorted her to Dockside, yet once again sleep didn't come right away.
The cold water was soothing as she swam under the moon. It was a good way to clear her mind. The next day the trial was more difficult then she imagined. Witnesses began to testify of her murder of Black. The man was still alive and still haunting her, but she couldn't prove them wrong. The day after was even more difficult, and the only thing Anne was grateful for was the duels. They were a solid way of relieving her stress. However, Anne had not been seen since her last duel on Saturday. When she arrived at the Palazzo to pick up her kids, Klinton informed her that they were 'acting up'.
Acting up meant sick, and two sick twins did not help Anne in the least. She went straight to the Hotel Ritz, told the desk her name, and went up to her room. The kids didn't complain at first, yet she soon found out how tiring being a mother was. When one kid was hungry, the other threw up. When on kid wanted to play, the other wanted a nap. When both were tired, Anne used the time to prepare for her testimony.
The kids woke up every hour during the night between the two of them. She was surprised that someone hadn't come to kick her out from all the crying her children made. The strange moments when they were both sleeping Anne couldn't rest. It was going to be a long night.
---
The next morning Anne could barely focus her eyes let alone watch the kids. She seemed to have caught whatever it was they had. It was a wish come true when Vincent came in and helped her. Anne slept more then she thought was possible. That evening she used all her strength to write a letter to Azjah. She would probably be at the arena that night.
Hey Azjah
I'm not feeling all too well right now. Don't know about making the trial tomorrow, I don't suppose it's all right to delay it? I'm at the Hotel Ritz if you need me. And thank Klinton for watching the kids will you?
- Anne
As soon as the letter was written Anne fell back asleep.
The cold water was soothing as she swam under the moon. It was a good way to clear her mind. The next day the trial was more difficult then she imagined. Witnesses began to testify of her murder of Black. The man was still alive and still haunting her, but she couldn't prove them wrong. The day after was even more difficult, and the only thing Anne was grateful for was the duels. They were a solid way of relieving her stress. However, Anne had not been seen since her last duel on Saturday. When she arrived at the Palazzo to pick up her kids, Klinton informed her that they were 'acting up'.
Acting up meant sick, and two sick twins did not help Anne in the least. She went straight to the Hotel Ritz, told the desk her name, and went up to her room. The kids didn't complain at first, yet she soon found out how tiring being a mother was. When one kid was hungry, the other threw up. When on kid wanted to play, the other wanted a nap. When both were tired, Anne used the time to prepare for her testimony.
The kids woke up every hour during the night between the two of them. She was surprised that someone hadn't come to kick her out from all the crying her children made. The strange moments when they were both sleeping Anne couldn't rest. It was going to be a long night.
---
The next morning Anne could barely focus her eyes let alone watch the kids. She seemed to have caught whatever it was they had. It was a wish come true when Vincent came in and helped her. Anne slept more then she thought was possible. That evening she used all her strength to write a letter to Azjah. She would probably be at the arena that night.
Hey Azjah
I'm not feeling all too well right now. Don't know about making the trial tomorrow, I don't suppose it's all right to delay it? I'm at the Hotel Ritz if you need me. And thank Klinton for watching the kids will you?
- Anne
As soon as the letter was written Anne fell back asleep.
Anne Ellis Feren
New Developments
On the off chance that I might learn something new about Nadine or Black, I went to the Annex. In an effort to mingle, since I was not officially working at the time, I sought a fight. Regrettably, the only person seeking a fight was a small elven woman, who goes by the unlikely appellation of “Koy”. And what was her fight of preference? Pugilism!
The elf accounted herself very well in our fight. Her strength of character was refreshing.
As we fought, I was close enough to hear a discussion between the Arch Mage and the child known as Skyler. My focus was predominantly on that discussion the instant I heard Black’s name brought up.
At the conclusion of our match, I sought out the Arch Mage, “You are Vincent Smith, Arch Mage of the Twilight Isle?” He was eating ice cream and set his spoon down, “That’d be me.” I gave him a formal bow, “May I join you a moment to discuss Black?”
He bade me sit, and I explained that I’d heard his discussion with the child Skyler, where he’d discovered the link between the youth and the man Rhaine sought to bring back for Ms. Xile’s trial, Black. He’d bluffed with the boy, but it had worked. The child had spilled his guts threatening the mage with Black’s retribution. So much the better actually, and I told Vincent that we were going after Black. He offered his assistance, and put Vincent #6 at our service. We need Black alive, and that would make his return trickier, but certainly doable.
“We will leave the Palazzo in the morning. I thank you for your assistance Arch Mage. Good evening.” With that, I left his presence and vanished into the night. The boy Skyler would bear watching.
The elf accounted herself very well in our fight. Her strength of character was refreshing.
As we fought, I was close enough to hear a discussion between the Arch Mage and the child known as Skyler. My focus was predominantly on that discussion the instant I heard Black’s name brought up.
At the conclusion of our match, I sought out the Arch Mage, “You are Vincent Smith, Arch Mage of the Twilight Isle?” He was eating ice cream and set his spoon down, “That’d be me.” I gave him a formal bow, “May I join you a moment to discuss Black?”
He bade me sit, and I explained that I’d heard his discussion with the child Skyler, where he’d discovered the link between the youth and the man Rhaine sought to bring back for Ms. Xile’s trial, Black. He’d bluffed with the boy, but it had worked. The child had spilled his guts threatening the mage with Black’s retribution. So much the better actually, and I told Vincent that we were going after Black. He offered his assistance, and put Vincent #6 at our service. We need Black alive, and that would make his return trickier, but certainly doable.
“We will leave the Palazzo in the morning. I thank you for your assistance Arch Mage. Good evening.” With that, I left his presence and vanished into the night. The boy Skyler would bear watching.
Gabriel Datrazanov
-
Vinny
- Seasoned Adventurer
- Bender of physics
- Posts: 342
- Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2004 11:01 am
- Location: Wherever he needs to be.
After finishing an evening of dueling, Vinny went back to the Hotel Ritz and quickly made his way up to the penthouse. Seeing that Anne and the kids were still there, he packed up their things and put them by the door. "Anne, I'm afraid you and the kids are taking and extended vacation on Algol Siento."
Anne just stood there. Sick as she was, she could still find enough energy to be defient. "What the hell is all this about? No, I'm not going anywhere."
Vinny continued packing. "Yes, you are. I just invited Black over for dinner, and it may get ugly if he takes me up on the offer."
Anne's jaw dropped. "You did WHAT?!? What were you thnking, doing such a thing? Don't you know what he's capable of?"
Vinny smirked. "I know precisely what I'm getting into. Odds are, he won't show. But if he does, I don't want him to know that you've been staying here. Now grab the kids and let's go downstairs to Mycroft, and get you out of here."
And before she could object again, he had her through the door and off to Algol Siento, where they'd be safe for the time being.
Anne just stood there. Sick as she was, she could still find enough energy to be defient. "What the hell is all this about? No, I'm not going anywhere."
Vinny continued packing. "Yes, you are. I just invited Black over for dinner, and it may get ugly if he takes me up on the offer."
Anne's jaw dropped. "You did WHAT?!? What were you thnking, doing such a thing? Don't you know what he's capable of?"
Vinny smirked. "I know precisely what I'm getting into. Odds are, he won't show. But if he does, I don't want him to know that you've been staying here. Now grab the kids and let's go downstairs to Mycroft, and get you out of here."
And before she could object again, he had her through the door and off to Algol Siento, where they'd be safe for the time being.
Azjah and Klinton came to visit Anne, it was short and sweet. They told her that postponing the trial would be difficult. Shortly after Vincent came and began packing her things. Anne would throttle him when she got the chance. However, she was in no condition to do so. After arriving in Algol Siento the ex-pirate gave up fighting. Despite being sick Vincent recieved a good night hug and then sleep overtook Anne.
---
It was so cold...she was freezing. There were lots of blankets but it was still freezing. Vincent was tending the kids, but Anne was more concerned with the time. The trial! She threw off the covers and nearly froze to death. "Vince..." she held her head and slouched down by the bed. He was a pure gentlemen, helping her up. Though he assured her the trial wasn't happening today. How could he know when he was there?
Despite Vincents reassurance Anne force him to let her out of Algol Siento. They packed up the kids and left. Vincent returned to Algol Siento with her twins and Anne proceeded to the courtroom. She didn't know how, but Vincent was right. Marching back to the hotel Anne collapsed in the penthouse.
Then she remembered Blacks invitation. Anne headed back to the Palazzo and slept...and slept...and slept.
---
It was so cold...she was freezing. There were lots of blankets but it was still freezing. Vincent was tending the kids, but Anne was more concerned with the time. The trial! She threw off the covers and nearly froze to death. "Vince..." she held her head and slouched down by the bed. He was a pure gentlemen, helping her up. Though he assured her the trial wasn't happening today. How could he know when he was there?
Despite Vincents reassurance Anne force him to let her out of Algol Siento. They packed up the kids and left. Vincent returned to Algol Siento with her twins and Anne proceeded to the courtroom. She didn't know how, but Vincent was right. Marching back to the hotel Anne collapsed in the penthouse.
Then she remembered Blacks invitation. Anne headed back to the Palazzo and slept...and slept...and slept.
Anne Ellis Feren
-
Rhaine
- Seasoned Adventurer
- Black in Mind
- Posts: 353
- Joined: Thu Dec 09, 2004 9:43 pm
- Location: Citadel Nessus
Investigation: Start
I basically dragged Gabriel out of Palazzo. We had NO time to waste, so I dragged him into a rift that swirled madly around us. The vampire kept cool, which is excellent. Semi-stable rifts are faster than normal ones, and my Shalafi taught me to deal with them well enough to be safe to drag someone through.
We were onboard DarSai in no time. The ship welcomed me, and I pointed Gabriel to gunner's place - right on the right from me. I was immersed into the neurointerface in no time, and we were orbiting that dratted place in a few minutes. Sorry, vampire, I have no time to ask about your tolerance for acceleration and sharp launches....
The holographic images between pilot's and gunner's seats shifted with insane speed. DarSai was locating "Voyager", ship where Brad had been a doctor - first step towards my targets. I have no clue if Gabriel understood anything - and I do not care. In a few seconds we were going down, landing on Hawaii (and may locals tell silly tales about UFO's after that).
We were onboard DarSai in no time. The ship welcomed me, and I pointed Gabriel to gunner's place - right on the right from me. I was immersed into the neurointerface in no time, and we were orbiting that dratted place in a few minutes. Sorry, vampire, I have no time to ask about your tolerance for acceleration and sharp launches....
The holographic images between pilot's and gunner's seats shifted with insane speed. DarSai was locating "Voyager", ship where Brad had been a doctor - first step towards my targets. I have no clue if Gabriel understood anything - and I do not care. In a few seconds we were going down, landing on Hawaii (and may locals tell silly tales about UFO's after that).
-
Rhaine
- Seasoned Adventurer
- Black in Mind
- Posts: 353
- Joined: Thu Dec 09, 2004 9:43 pm
- Location: Citadel Nessus
Brad was more or less relaxed when I found him. I did not want to have Gabriel around, I do not trust the vampire enough. So I walked up to his vacation house. He was a fairly young dhoine, tall, blonde and blue-eyed, a fine dinner for a true vampire. I approached him, having my appearance changed to that of a human. No need to scare him before time.
"Hi. May I ask if you are Brad, doctor of "Voyager"? I've come quite a way to ask you a few questions? About a friend of mine, Anne Xile?"
One thing I did not change was my outfit. Simple dark stealth suit was something that would make any dhoine believe I've come a long way to talk to them. My shape was coalescing in the evening air. Brad looked at me. Yes, dhoine, I do look like one of your kind. For now.
"Yes, sure, ask away. "
"Do you know what happened to Anne?" - I made my face tense a bit.
"I know she was put in prison, tortured, and raped"
At least the necromage did not lie. As if anyone would - under such pain. I allowed human sadness and anger to show on my face for a moment or so. Now - hesitation, feeling of the importance of dhoine's answer.
"You know... who did it?"
"Nadine Montargue and a guy she was in business with. Never had the displeasure of meeting him."
Brad seemed truly slightly disgusted by the mentioning of these two. Good for me. So far I won't disclose the fact that Anne is alive. Not yet.
"Where can I find Nadine?" - now let's tense, let out that dangerous glow.
"I would like to know that as well, she left not shortly after Anne was killed."
"I need to find her. Anne has been a good friend of mine."
"I do not know where to look for her," the dhoine was obviously hiding something from me. Unfortunately, ethical standards of my kin do not allow abusing mental techniques. Time for some shock.
"Brad.... Anne is alive. She is on trial know, in a place called RhyDin. That's where she's been working. We need to use every chance to get her out of trouble. Finding Nadine is crucial... I do not believe a single thing said about Anne at that trial! and Nadine can be the key to all this."
The news appeared to stir Brad. He looked surprised, shocked.... just as I calculated it. Of course - a share of disbelief. Quite natural.
"Why should I believe you?"
"How would I even know that you exist without Anne telling me? You wish to test me - go ahead, ask about something only Anne could tell me about. She's been through that dratted desert and through the necromage's spell - you wished to hear THIS? Or that I know of the spell the necromage has put on her because of Nadine's order?"
Brad nodded slowly. He has not recovered from the shock of the news, but my sincerity was pretty convincing.
"Donatien might know something. But you must promise that he would not be harmed in any way."
"I have come all this way and why would I harm someone who would help me to find those who hurt Anne? Brad... if you want to help Anne, you would help me. If anyone goes to storm the jail, this can only confirm that Anne's guilty. Nadine might know something that would save Anne. There has to be a reason for all that casting, for everything Anne has undergone. I will keep within the law, you have my word on that... word I always keep."
The doctor hesitantly spoke. My tirade did not go in vain (yes, I showed way too many emotions, but dhoine tend to believe sincere eyes and human looks). Next destination: France, manor of Montague family.
I dropped into the soothing comfort of neurointerface.
"Gabriel, this Donatien guy is yours. You need to convince him to help us. Locals consider males more fit for serious talks, so now it's your turn. I'll play second roles for a while. Just don't hurt him, he may be very valuable."
"Hi. May I ask if you are Brad, doctor of "Voyager"? I've come quite a way to ask you a few questions? About a friend of mine, Anne Xile?"
One thing I did not change was my outfit. Simple dark stealth suit was something that would make any dhoine believe I've come a long way to talk to them. My shape was coalescing in the evening air. Brad looked at me. Yes, dhoine, I do look like one of your kind. For now.
"Yes, sure, ask away. "
"Do you know what happened to Anne?" - I made my face tense a bit.
"I know she was put in prison, tortured, and raped"
At least the necromage did not lie. As if anyone would - under such pain. I allowed human sadness and anger to show on my face for a moment or so. Now - hesitation, feeling of the importance of dhoine's answer.
"You know... who did it?"
"Nadine Montargue and a guy she was in business with. Never had the displeasure of meeting him."
Brad seemed truly slightly disgusted by the mentioning of these two. Good for me. So far I won't disclose the fact that Anne is alive. Not yet.
"Where can I find Nadine?" - now let's tense, let out that dangerous glow.
"I would like to know that as well, she left not shortly after Anne was killed."
"I need to find her. Anne has been a good friend of mine."
"I do not know where to look for her," the dhoine was obviously hiding something from me. Unfortunately, ethical standards of my kin do not allow abusing mental techniques. Time for some shock.
"Brad.... Anne is alive. She is on trial know, in a place called RhyDin. That's where she's been working. We need to use every chance to get her out of trouble. Finding Nadine is crucial... I do not believe a single thing said about Anne at that trial! and Nadine can be the key to all this."
The news appeared to stir Brad. He looked surprised, shocked.... just as I calculated it. Of course - a share of disbelief. Quite natural.
"Why should I believe you?"
"How would I even know that you exist without Anne telling me? You wish to test me - go ahead, ask about something only Anne could tell me about. She's been through that dratted desert and through the necromage's spell - you wished to hear THIS? Or that I know of the spell the necromage has put on her because of Nadine's order?"
Brad nodded slowly. He has not recovered from the shock of the news, but my sincerity was pretty convincing.
"Donatien might know something. But you must promise that he would not be harmed in any way."
"I have come all this way and why would I harm someone who would help me to find those who hurt Anne? Brad... if you want to help Anne, you would help me. If anyone goes to storm the jail, this can only confirm that Anne's guilty. Nadine might know something that would save Anne. There has to be a reason for all that casting, for everything Anne has undergone. I will keep within the law, you have my word on that... word I always keep."
The doctor hesitantly spoke. My tirade did not go in vain (yes, I showed way too many emotions, but dhoine tend to believe sincere eyes and human looks). Next destination: France, manor of Montague family.
I dropped into the soothing comfort of neurointerface.
"Gabriel, this Donatien guy is yours. You need to convince him to help us. Locals consider males more fit for serious talks, so now it's your turn. I'll play second roles for a while. Just don't hurt him, he may be very valuable."
-
Klinton Caer
- Adventurer
- Posts: 38
- Joined: Sat Jun 19, 2004 12:34 am
Custody
I walked slowly through the portal onto the isle. I saw Azjah and Anne talking, I smiled and Azjah asked me to join them. I asked what was up, and Azjah informed me that Anne did not want us in the court room, near her, or her children.
I was shocked. This was absolutely stunning to me. "Have we offended you in some way Anne?
Anne rose. "No, you haven't Mr. Caer. Miss Danaan, have a good evening. Best of luck to the both of you."
I jumped up, catching her wrist. "Anne....what is going on?"
She slipped out of my grip and turned, "Nothing is going on Mr. Caer."
Events unfolded. It was ugly. Caleb Feren entered, and Anne and him argued about whether or not he was going to shadow her. In the end, the man followed her out.
I spoke with Azjah. Anne would make her own decisions...it was the children that worried me the most. They would have no understanding of what was going on. Of the danger they would be in...especially if Anne took off, alone.
I told Azjah that I would speak to the lawyers about getting custody of her.
I explained to the lawyers that I am not one to take children away from a parent. But in this case, they are in extreme danger, and Anne is not in any shape to care for them...especially if she is shutting the rest of the world out.
They gave me some forms, I filled them out...and I will bring them to Azjah soon.
I was shocked. This was absolutely stunning to me. "Have we offended you in some way Anne?
Anne rose. "No, you haven't Mr. Caer. Miss Danaan, have a good evening. Best of luck to the both of you."
I jumped up, catching her wrist. "Anne....what is going on?"
She slipped out of my grip and turned, "Nothing is going on Mr. Caer."
Events unfolded. It was ugly. Caleb Feren entered, and Anne and him argued about whether or not he was going to shadow her. In the end, the man followed her out.
I spoke with Azjah. Anne would make her own decisions...it was the children that worried me the most. They would have no understanding of what was going on. Of the danger they would be in...especially if Anne took off, alone.
I told Azjah that I would speak to the lawyers about getting custody of her.
I explained to the lawyers that I am not one to take children away from a parent. But in this case, they are in extreme danger, and Anne is not in any shape to care for them...especially if she is shutting the rest of the world out.
They gave me some forms, I filled them out...and I will bring them to Azjah soon.
Cutting Ties
It was late when Anne woke up again, so she decided to head to the Hotel. Black or no Black she needed to check on her kids. Whatever bug she had didn't go away, and it had slowed her senses. There was a quick shot behind her knees that made her gave way. Anne rolled to the left hearing a swish where her head had been. There were four goons, three to do the damage one to give the message. She recognized his style.
What followed was a series of punches, kicks, and avoidance maneuvers. Anne fared very well considering her state. Three of them left after ten minutes of solid fighting. The last one merely instructed her not go let her friends get involved. Sliding down on the wall Anne took some deep breaths. She was soon found by Keith, a man around twenty eight. Minutes later Anne was wandering around the Isle, having ignored everyone’s queries.
An hour later Anne returned to the Isle having made her decision. Azjah was the first to be informed.
"Azjah, I don't want you involved in this ordeal anymore. The trial, this hunt for Black, me, in general." It was heartbreaking for her to say this, but she kept calm.
"We've come this far Anne. What's happened to frighten you?"
The ex-pirate waved her hand dismissively. "I'll use your attorneys if that's what you're worried about. However, I do not want you attending the trial. As far as you should be concerned, I am nothing more then an ex-employee."
There was some more discussion about the legitimacy of her quitting, due to the one - year contract. It was the least of Anne's worries with all the charges pressed against her. Klinton arrived at the Isle and was soon caught up on the status of things. "Have we offended you in some way?"
"No you haven't, Mr. Caer. Miss Danaan, have a good evening. The best of luck to both of you." Klinton rose and caught her hand. Anne pried it loose and proceeded to the portal. She came face to face with Mr. Feren and the results weren't pretty.
"Xile... what the hell happened..."
The woman’s voice was strained, as if all emotion was being weeded out. "Nothing. Happened."
"Like chit it didn't." The business like tone was infuriating but Anne kept
her ground.
"Do not press me further than that Mr. Feren."
Unfortunately he did not follow her advice. The argument went around in circles. She finally told him that his protection was no longer needed. Once again he asked what happened. His one and only straight answer came when she attempted to exit.
"If you leave... you will not be able to get rid of me." Caleb told her the only wait to get rid of him would be the truth.
"I am merely protecting myself and others. I was given a message, I will not see my friends harmed because I failed to obey a warning." The answer was a harsh whisper that she kept between the two of them.
"Then you have no need to worry. There are very few whom I call friend, and even less who can threaten me. You have now just bought my protection. It is best now to deal with that fact here and now."
He had recently said that she had never bought his protection and unknowing she just had. The man was confusing, a problem she didn't need. Besides, if he wasn't her friend, then why was he so concerned? "How exactly are you supposed to protect me...Mr. Feren? And why, exactly, am I worth the effort to protect? I believe, since I apparently bought said protection I deserve to know."
"I have my own ways. You are worth the effort is because you cannot do it yourself, it would seem. And, if you cannot defend yourself, just how exactly do you expect your children to be?"
Anne was sick of the game, hated having to drop her friends, and as jumpy as a scared rabbit. Fact one, she had protected herself darn well. It was the threat to her friends that had her doing this. Fact two, her children were perfectly safe with Vincent. Fact three, he had sidestepped her question in a very sneaky way. Before all emotion burst from her the pirate left. It was pointless dealing with a heartless shadow.
What followed was a series of punches, kicks, and avoidance maneuvers. Anne fared very well considering her state. Three of them left after ten minutes of solid fighting. The last one merely instructed her not go let her friends get involved. Sliding down on the wall Anne took some deep breaths. She was soon found by Keith, a man around twenty eight. Minutes later Anne was wandering around the Isle, having ignored everyone’s queries.
An hour later Anne returned to the Isle having made her decision. Azjah was the first to be informed.
"Azjah, I don't want you involved in this ordeal anymore. The trial, this hunt for Black, me, in general." It was heartbreaking for her to say this, but she kept calm.
"We've come this far Anne. What's happened to frighten you?"
The ex-pirate waved her hand dismissively. "I'll use your attorneys if that's what you're worried about. However, I do not want you attending the trial. As far as you should be concerned, I am nothing more then an ex-employee."
There was some more discussion about the legitimacy of her quitting, due to the one - year contract. It was the least of Anne's worries with all the charges pressed against her. Klinton arrived at the Isle and was soon caught up on the status of things. "Have we offended you in some way?"
"No you haven't, Mr. Caer. Miss Danaan, have a good evening. The best of luck to both of you." Klinton rose and caught her hand. Anne pried it loose and proceeded to the portal. She came face to face with Mr. Feren and the results weren't pretty.
"Xile... what the hell happened..."
The woman’s voice was strained, as if all emotion was being weeded out. "Nothing. Happened."
"Like chit it didn't." The business like tone was infuriating but Anne kept
her ground.
"Do not press me further than that Mr. Feren."
Unfortunately he did not follow her advice. The argument went around in circles. She finally told him that his protection was no longer needed. Once again he asked what happened. His one and only straight answer came when she attempted to exit.
"If you leave... you will not be able to get rid of me." Caleb told her the only wait to get rid of him would be the truth.
"I am merely protecting myself and others. I was given a message, I will not see my friends harmed because I failed to obey a warning." The answer was a harsh whisper that she kept between the two of them.
"Then you have no need to worry. There are very few whom I call friend, and even less who can threaten me. You have now just bought my protection. It is best now to deal with that fact here and now."
He had recently said that she had never bought his protection and unknowing she just had. The man was confusing, a problem she didn't need. Besides, if he wasn't her friend, then why was he so concerned? "How exactly are you supposed to protect me...Mr. Feren? And why, exactly, am I worth the effort to protect? I believe, since I apparently bought said protection I deserve to know."
"I have my own ways. You are worth the effort is because you cannot do it yourself, it would seem. And, if you cannot defend yourself, just how exactly do you expect your children to be?"
Anne was sick of the game, hated having to drop her friends, and as jumpy as a scared rabbit. Fact one, she had protected herself darn well. It was the threat to her friends that had her doing this. Fact two, her children were perfectly safe with Vincent. Fact three, he had sidestepped her question in a very sneaky way. Before all emotion burst from her the pirate left. It was pointless dealing with a heartless shadow.
Anne Ellis Feren
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