[Telka] Saoire's Heroes: The Air Table

[Vulpes]

Telka
Saoire's Realm

And finally, they were all seated.

Stars lit above them, each one of them found their place setting - and they found that there was room for them, and any and all who came with them. There was a wide open-air space outside them, the ceiling opened up to the skies. The seats were comfortable and there was an incredible attention to detail. Beautiful place settings had small gifts sitting for each individual - and for each one, it was their favourite sweet snack which had been made to the highest standards of taste and presentation. Couples would find small crystal decorations which matched, or made a pair, and were significant to them. Individuals had small crystal objects too - all of which were significant and meaningful. Animal companions were not left out, there was a gift for each one. Even spirits such as Diri were given gifts here - and for them the gifts were the same. With each course, a small vial of ephemera which allowed them to taste the flavours of the feast.

They had a few moments to get settled and they would have drinks poured for them. It was an interesting fact of Saoire's realm ~ or perhaps of just this night ~ that alcohol had no negative effects here. There would be all the experience when drinking, but no feeling of inebriation or consequences the next morning. Each table was decorated with flowers and blooms which were living. No cut flowers here, each decoration was alive. Plants and small trees grew from the center of each table, healthy and living and giving a beautiful scent. Small crystals hung from branches and there were candles flickering at differing heights on each table.

The effect was exquisite.

Of course, the people seated here were also of differing heights - and yet that was another effect of Saoire's realm. Each person experienced the world, and everyone in it, as though they were their size. An ithecal and a cadouri could sit at the same table and be eye to eye and the world fitted them perfectly. It was a means of bringing people together, and it simply worked. When everyone was seated and had drinks, they were given a five-course menu. Each menu was different, it was a selection of the individual's favourite things. The only thing which was the same was that there was a "Chef's Choice" on each, whereby they would allow the chef to put together a bespoke menu for them.

Quickly enough, everyone was seated with drinks and having made whatever food order they wished. There was quiet music playing in the background - a cadouri string quartet - and a hum of conversation. Then, the area at the front of the room lit up more brightly and there stood Saoire.

"I bid you all a warm welcome," she said. Her green eyes were solemn as she looked at them. Around her, fairies fluttered and many of them whispered into her ear or giggled with musical sounding voices. "We are here to celebrate, and to give thanks, to those who worked so hard to save Scalvoris and who, in the process, achieved so much more." She looked around with a smile and it seemed like she looked at each individual, making personal eye contact with them.

"For those who do not know me, I am Saoire. It is my pleasure to greet you here, in my Domain." she gestured around to where they were, her shimmering white dress moving with her. "This is Telka and you are each a gift to the evening." She spoke softly, gently, but her voice was clearly heard by all.

"Although there are many here who know what happened, because they were there, there are equally those of you who do not," she said. "And so, I have provided an option for you to do so. At your place setting, there is a small vial"

Indeed there was - each one of them would find such. A small vial, intricate and beautiful. There was one for everyone, even if they'd been there. Because, after all, they hadn't all been in every place. Inside was a clear golden liquid which looked like honey. "If you drink the contents of that vial, it will show you what happened, in each place with each person." And indeed, it would - but it was up to them if they chose to drink it or not.

"With each course, we will celebrate achievements of specific individuals or groups. The heroes who saved us that trial and groups such as the Order of the Adunih who helped so much in the storm and freeze," With a warm smile, she opened her arms. "There are six of us here, tonight, in this realm and we will visit you, speak with you. Please, enjoy your first course."

And so, The Feast for Heroes began.

Air Table

Seated at this table were Faith, Padraig, Kura, Doran, and Nir'wei. Also seated there were Rose and Emmett Potter. Since their table had on it people who had been involved in the events specifically, it had a large blossom centerpiece growing from the middle of the table. They might notice that there was one empty chair, although it had a place set for it.

There were small crystals and mirrors allowing the lights to reflect, and the theme of the table was air. The flowers which cascaded down from the central tree, and which grew up and over it, were jubiplunt flowers. Their scent was clean and refreshing, and those who smelled it would find their anxieties and stress melting away. The flowers swayed lightly too and fro despite the lack of a breeze, as did the edges of the tablecloth. The glasses were etched with beautiful engravings of jubiplunt flowers and swirling gusts of wind, and were just slightly cool to the touch—enough to be noticeable, but not enough to be uncomfortable. Their plates and cutlery too had the same effect, and the same design etched into them - the plates had it around the rim and the cutlery had the pattern on the handles.

The first course was quickly served and they discovered that the empty chair was for a latecomer.

Qylios. "Hello," she said as she approached. "I am Qylios, and I will be joining you for this course of the feast."

Nodding in greeting to each of them in turn, Qylios took her seat, and was soon served an array of tiny appetizers. "I was hoping that while we eat, I could ask you a question, and naturally, answer any questions you have in return." Those who were familiar with Qylios or who were particularly perceptive might note the barest furrow in her brow, and a faintly troubled expression on her face.

"I am, as you may know, the immortal of bonds. Yet on that day, it was those very bonds which tied me to my son and grand-daughter that might well have doomed us all." Qylios paused then, looking each of them in the eye one by one. "My question to you, then, is this: when is a bond dangerous, or a weakness? And what would you do if you had such a connection?"

Qylios fell silent as she waited for their answers, beginning to eat the appetizers laid out before her. It was clear the issue had been eating at her for some time, and she seemed hopeful that those seated with her could help her resolve it.

As the course progressed, the waiting staff were there to fill glasses and deal with any issues. Everyone was attended to - diri and animal and familiar and friend.

OOC Info

• If you drink from the vial, you will see the content of the Forging. That is the threads on Ishallr, Scaltoth & Sweetwine, and in the Glass Temple - then the Forging itself. You will see PC actions, but not know PC thoughts / motivations etc.
• The way this is going to work is:
  • This is being split into 5 threads. Each thread has a designated mod.
  • The main thread will have the "exposition" each week. That will be the stuff that's happening over where Saoire is, and it will be the same for each table. You'll know which one of the three of us modding the event wrote it, as the mod will post it in the main thread.
  • Your individual thread will have a modpost which is split into two. The first half will be the main "exposition" and the second half will be table specific.
  • You should post ONLY in your table thread unless directed otherwise.

Objectives

• Please describe what small crystal item you have.
• Make a menu choice!
• Describe what gifts your NPCs / animal companions get (if applicable. Yes, even you, Nir) These would be non-magical but exquisite and appropriate.
• Answer the question you have been asked by Qylios
• You may ask Qylios up to two things. This may be a request for information, for understanding, or a plea to do something. Up to you!
• You can ask up to one question of everyone at the table (including Qylios) . PLEASE ONLY ASK THESE GROUP QUESTIONS this round - we'll direct you to answering them next round.

Next Post: Sunday 22nd August

[Faith Augustin]

39th Ymiden, 721

They were seated and Faith beamed in delight when she saw who they shared their table with. Padraig, being who he was, held a chair for her, but Faith had to go and hug Nir'wei. It had been too long since she had seen him and she took a moment to fuss each of his animals too. Then, she sat with a "Sorry," and a slight grin to her husband, she looked around at the people at her table and she smiled. "Hello, Doran - it's been too long, how are you?" she asked. She greeted Rose warmly, too, asking after the library and she politely introduced herself to Emmet who she had never met. To Kura, she smiled and briefly touched her friend's arm, making sure not to hurt her. "Thank you so much, Kura and Cally. You inviting us here means a lot."

At her place setting there was a small crystal hummingbird and Faith held it up and looked at Padraig with deep emotion in her eyes. "Look," she said. He had called her that, his hummingbird, from very early on in their relationship and the crystal really did justice to the beauty of the creature. Then, she opened up the box with the sweet treat inside it and she gave a slight gasp. In there, of all things, lay a single nut. "Oh, Padraig, look," she said softly. "It's a pistachio," she said. She didn't ask him if he remembered how she'd teased him about pistachios, she knew he'd remember and so she didn't have to. Faith - like her husband - did not have much of a sweet tooth, but the pistachio delighted her more than any sweet could have. She moved her leg, entwining it with his under the table.

Her menu choice was immediate - she would take the Chef's Choice, please. She smiled at the waiter and thanked them. She didn't drink alcohol generally, so she did not partake now. Faith was much more content with a simple fruit juice or flavoured water. Then, Saoire moved to the area which had been prepared as a sort of stage, Faith supposed, and she described what the small glass vial was. Faith did not hesitate - she drank the vial so that she would better understand. After all, her sudden decision to heal fracture scars was fresh in her mind and she thought that maybe there would be a clue there.

The first course arrived - Faith was delighted to see the crab soup with lightly toasted bread. It was one of her favourite meals and she was savouring it slowly. Faith had a small appetite - a hangover from her slave days - but she enjoyed food tremendously. And then, Qylios joined them - Faith bowed her head to the Immortal and then listened to what Qylios asked.

It was, Faith considered, quite the question.

She was quiet for a moment, considering how to answer - and then she spoke. "I think, my lady Qylios," she said, softly. "You are starting from a flawed premise." Faith smiled softly. "It was not your bonds which were the issue." She looked at Qylios and her words were thoughtful and considered. "I think the issue, if I may be so blunt, was that you were predictable." Maybe, Faith thought to herself, she should not be so blunt or honest, but she knew no other way to be. "Audrae took advantage of your nature." It was very clear to Faith, and she sincerely hoped that she did not offend. "Audrae believed that she could manipulate you to act in a particular way, and you did just that. The issue is not how much you love, or how strong your bonds are. With all due respect, my lady, it's that you did what she expected you to do and did not then seek a way around it"

With a glance to her husband, Faith explained. "I think that what the ability to change will bring you, the Immortals, is the ability to think outside the box. To not be predictable. As for your question." Faith considered it. When was a bond a danger or a weakness. "A bond is a feeling, an emotion. It strengthens and gives passion, drive. The behaviour in response to that emotion is what can be a problem. My husband, my children, my family and friends," Faith gestured to the people at the table. "I have bonds with them. That determines my actions, in many ways. If someone I love was in danger - then you can bet that I would go and help them. What's important is that I do it tactically and in a way that is surprising."

She shrugged slightly. "Forgive me if I have over answered. It is true that people believe that bonds can be exploited. But that behaviour - Audrae's behaviour in this case - is their responsibility." The bond wasn't the issue as Faith saw it. It was the predictable behaviour.

As for questions for Qylios? Faith waited until more people had answered the Immortal and then she asked. "Lady Qylios, I would like to begin exploring how to heal fractures in both Mortalborn and Immortals." She smiled slightly and asked someone best qualified to answer. "Would that be something which the Immortals would be interested in? If so, do you think I might get some help in terms of research?"

In terms of a group question, Faith considered it. There were people here she knew very well and others she did not know at all. So, she decided to ask something which might be fun for people to answer. "If someone wrote a book or play about your life, what would it be called?" Light, potentially funny, that sort of thing. Glancing at Padraig, Faith smiled slightly and put down her spoon. The soup was half-eaten but that was a lot for her and, as a five course meal was happening, she knew that if she ate any more, she'd never manage. So, she put her spoon down and sipped her water, quite content.

[Doran]

To his surprise, Doran only shared the table with one of the three guests that he had invited to the feast – Jacien and Professor Fridson were sitting somewhere else, it seemed. His slight disappointment did not last long when he noticed who had joined Rose and him though. He had been quite impressed with Kura’s actions in the Glass Temple, Nir’wei had been part of the Scaltoth group, and he had met Faith Augustin before, in Viden, and enjoyed her company. They shared an interest in the research of blood, among other things. He was looking forward to finally making the acquaintance of her husband as well. Mister Potter was a stranger as well, but one that he hoped to be able to exchange a few words with over the course of the evening.

The venue itself looked like something out of a fairy tale, he decided, as he turned the head towards the ceiling once more in order to admire the stars that shimmered above them. The attention to detail impressed him. There was nothing about it that was over the top or gaudy in his opinion though. Instead, everything was simply utterly tasteful, beautiful and comfortable, and the food, the decorations and the gifts seemed to have been considered which each guests’ personal preferences in mind. His eyes lit up for a moment, and he smiled softly when he noticed the small crystal figurine at his place setting.

It was an Aurora Glider, a huge bird that had gotten its name due to its habit of gliding through the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis that sometimes lit up the sky in the frozen north.

It was beautiful, and perfect, and it reminded him of Viden. When he was there, he often sat at the window late in the trial and observed the sky. Astronomy had become one of his favourite pastimes.

He picked it up and let a finger run across it for a few moments, gently and almost reverently, but when Faith addressed him, he set it down again and turned to face her, smiling as he did so. “It’s indeed been too long. I’d like for us to meet again sometime after this evening and catch up. There are a few aspects of the events in the Glass Temple that I’d appreciate your opinion on”, he admitted in a calm tone of voice.

“I’m fine, by the way. How are you though?” he wanted to know. He didn’t inquire about Faith’s wellbeing because he wanted to be polite, but because he was genuinely interested; and he didn’t say that he was fine because that’s what people usually did when they were confronted with such a question. He had rarely been so happy and content. Of course, there had been losses, but Scalvoris and the world as a whole had been saved.

That was a reason to be happy.

“Rose’s help during the events of the Forging was invaluable”, he remarked when Faith addressed the librarian – in his opinion, her contribution seemed to have been overlooked a bit - before he proceeded to greet the other people at the table, Kura, Padraig, Nir’wei and Emmet.

Eventually, he turned to look at his snack – a small pastry with a vanilla cream filling; he loved the taste of vanilla – and took a bite, letting out a small, but nonetheless noticeable sigh of pleasure as he did so. His mortal cook, Elias, had made the same kind of pastry for him in the past, but this one, he decided, might be better. It was simply exquisite.

His little Iceforged Diri, he noticed with some amusement, let out a scream of delight when it realized that it would be given a gift of its own and be able to taste the flavors of the feast.

Unlike a certain part of the population of Viden, Doran had no problem with alcohol; he enjoyed alcoholic drinks every now and then, in measured amounts (He did not appreciate the negative effects that greater amounts of alcohol had on one’s mind and body.). For that reason, and because alcohol here did not seem to have any of the usual negative effects, he asked the waiter for a glass of red wine, thanking them politely after the drink had been poured. He also ordered the Chef’s Choice as he was in the mood for a surprise.

When Saoire appeared, he inclined his head for a moment in a gesture of deep respect, as he considered to be appropriate when faced with one of the Immortals before he listened to her. When she smiled and made eye contact with him, he smiled at her as well. There was, he decided, something about her, something that he had rarely seen, in Immortals or mortals. She gave him the impression of being good and kind and genuinely caring.

When the Immortal of Gifts told them what the contents of the small vial at his place setting did, he thought about it for a moment before he drank. He had heard the reports from the other groups; drinking the vial would allow him to actually see the events in question though and thus, perhaps, gain an even better understanding than he already possessed.

The first course arrived. He was served a plate with stuffed sweet peppers that were relatively small and filled with a mixture of chickpeas, cumin seeds and cilantro. He thought that he could also detect a hint of vinegar as he gave it a taste. Famula had removed his spark and the mutation that affected his food preferences together with it, but Cassion’s blessing had seemed to have increased his appetite. Or maybe, he thought, the peppers were simply that delicious. He savored them, although his table manners were proper, of course.

His Diri that experienced the feast through the vial of ephemera it had been given, he noticed, did the same, and it did not hold back when it came to praising its exquisite taste.

When Qylios joined them – he had been wondering who the empty chair was meant for – he bowed, deeply and respectfully before he listened to the Immortal’s question, and to Faith’s answer. He had not considered that Audrae might have taken advantage of Qylios’ nature, but in hindsight, it made sense. From what he knew, the Immortals had been very aware of their limitations – their former limitations, he mentally amended, for they were capable of changing now. Audrae seemed like someone that would take advantage of that.

When it was his turn to speak, he did not do so right away, but furrowed his brow slightly for a moment before he finally raised his voice. “A bond can be dangerous, if others – if innocents – are at risk because of it, although I’m not sure to which extent I’d consider it to be a weakness. Love can be exploited, but it can also make you stronger.”

“As for your second question”, he continued in a calm, but obviously thoughtful tone of voice. “I had a connection to someone once, and I probably still do in some way. A little less two arcs ago, I met someone, a Mortalborn like I am, although I did not know what he was at the time, and fell in love. I believe that my love itself was not a mistake, but I did something that I consider to be a severe lapse of judgement nowadays.”

He was referring to his initiation into Transmutation, of course.

“Eventually, I began to examine our connection and decided to find a way to change the aspect that I considered to be problematic. The bonds that tied you to your son and granddaughter might nearly have doomed us all in the past, but it doesn’t have to be like that going forward”, he told Qylios, aware that his answer might be somewhat lacking. There were still a lot of aspects of Immortal nature that he was not familiar with.

Maybe, there was the potential for change in that regard as well now though.

When Faith told Qylios that she would like to begin exploring how to heal fractures he looked at the Immortal with curiosity – he was quite interested in her answer as it was a topic that he found fascinating as well; he had seen Cassion’s and Llyr’s fractures, among other things – before he posed a question of his own. “You mentioned the bond that tied you to your son. I would like to know more about him, about the man that he used to be before Audrae’s deception and Slag’s Deep, provided that you do not find the topic too painful to talk about”, he added.

He had to admit, he was curious about the Warden whose real name he still didn’t know, and he also wanted to give a mother the opportunity to share happier memories of her son. At the same time, he was realized that Qylios might be incapable of talking about it right now – provided that she processed grief and anger in a similar way.

In terms of a group question, he thought about it for a moment before he spoke, “The world was changed forever in the Heart of Scalvoris. If there were one change that you could bring about, any kind of change, no matter how big or small it is, which one would it be?” It was, he realized, a question that might be a bit on the complicated side, but it was the first one that had come to his mind. Change – and the Immortals' previous inability to change – had played a central part in the events of the Forging.

Notes

Doran doesn’t have any NPCs or animal companions, and thus I couldn’t describe their gifts. His Diri was very happy about the ephemera though!

[Kura Wolfsdotter]

Kura smiled as Faith and Padriag got introduced to the new wolves, then grinned slightly at their comments on the turtles name. "Perhaps this fellow has his own name and he just can't tell us." she said, scritching their turtles chin again, before laughing at the jokes. "I think perhaps you two shouldn't be lookin' into careers in comedy any time soon." she said as she climbed onto their rides back. Kura gave Faith a slightly amused smile when her friend asked if she'd been keeping busy, but then looked down at her arm when Faith asked about her scarring. "I'm not sure. It's the same scar I always had, though now Nir'wei, Ralgar, and the kid have identical scars. I think it's changed a bit, though." she mused, before looking up at Faith as she suggested learning how to heal Fracturing. "If you can pull that off, you'll be a hero to every Mortalborn on that count alone." she said, before gesturing at her arm. "Our biggest enemy is our own powers. We can go through life without ever making an enemy or gettin' badly ill, but our own powers can still kill us if we Fracture too much." she said, her tone thoughtful. When asked about Immortal blood samples, Kura grinned slightly. "The only three Immortals I know of with Fracture scars are Cassion, Ethelynda, and Chrien. The first two might be willin' to give you a blood sample. The latter would probably just get mad at you." she said, grimacing slightly.

When they were seated, Kura grinned at Faith and Padraig. "I imagine so. But if you were taller, you and Padraig wouldn't be so well balanced." she said, her tone teasing. "And aye, it's beautiful. I kind of thought Saoire's home would be simpler, but it's possible she made this for the party." she said, before a thought crossed her mind. "Though I suppose if I were Mortal, I'd wind up with something this fancy just because of all the time I had on my hands." she said thoughtfully. When Padraig said the tables did look to be looking towards the center, Kura nodded. "I imagine the focus will be Saoire to start, what with her bein' the host and all. We'll see how it progresses from there." she said, grinning slightly. Then Nir'wei and Doran joined them and Kura grinned at both of them. "Been a bit since I've seen either of you two. Thank you again for all your help in the temple, Doran." she said, before giving Nir'wei a long, considered glance. "Are you all right, Nir'wei? Everything we saw has happened now." she said, her tone deceptively calm. Then she turned to Rose and Emmerret and nodded. "You two as well. The Menagerie was a lot of help with the animal crisis we had at the start, and Rose, I apologize for not speaking to you much while we were at the temple together, but thank you for all your help on the research and information fronts." she said, before looking at the small things that had been left for her.

For Kura's part, the crystal was a small feather, from an owl of course, but Kura gave a slightly sad smile when she saw it. "My father used to give me owl feathers he found." she said, before looking at Cally, who was holding up a small crystal representation of, of all things, a coat. The ghost looked a bit surprised at it, then looked at Kura and smiled. "It's my earliest memory, now. I lost the ones from before it when I was a regular ghost. You covered me with your coat when you saved me, because I was afraid and the light hurt my eyes." she said, smiling softly. Kura reached out and patted Cally's shoulder, and then the two turned to their treats. Kura's was a chocolate coated peanut butter treat, while Cally's was a small raspberry pastry. Neither of them had a particular emotional attachment to their treats, they were just particular favorites.

Her various animals and diri all had gifts of their own, and Ignia and Rahmet had happily down the ephemera that would allow them to partake of the evenings meal. The latter, in particular, had been particularly happy to be able to take a physical form for the first time and the big rabbit-furred and eared Barghest had wasted no time in promptly sniffing everyone at the table. As for the gifts themselves, Phelan got a festive hat that he had promptly pestered Kura to put on him, Skadi had gotten a bow that she'd gotten Cally to tie around her tail, Marrok had gotten a squeaky toy to play with, Speck got a particularly comfortable looking perch, Ornery got a blanket, Ignia had gotten a small water fountain that she kept playing with, and Rahmet had gotten a particularly meaty bone that he was taking a great deal of pleasure in gnawing on.

When it came time to order food, Kura and Cally had both gone for the chefs choice. In terms of drink, Cally had gone for hot cocoa and Kura had asked for a whiskey from Korlasir that she was particularly fond of. Both had gotten what they were after, and then the food had come out after Saoire's speech. Kura's first course was a simple thing, a sausage roll covered in a thick tomato based sauce that was usually used for pasta. It was, perhaps, an odd combination, but Kura had always rather liked the pairing. Cally's first course was a plate of potato skins filled with cheese, a dish that she had accidentally made while learning how to cook that most people had considered strange at first, but that had become popular after people started trying it.

Then Qylios joined them and Kura nodded at the Immortal of Light. When she asked her question, Kura thought for a moment and then shook her head. "Any bond can be a weakness, really. I've been dealin' with people try to get at me by exploitin' mine for about seventy or so years now. But they're worth it, honestly, and I wouldn't trade makin' bonds for anythin'." she said, before shrugging slightly. "But when a bond is dangerous, that's the tricky bit. For me, it's when you lose control over them." she said, before nodding at Cally as she looked ready to speak.

"She's right, from my point of view. I don't have many, just some of the people at this table, but I was one of hers, and when I died she lost control for a bit. Only on the people what killed me, of course, but it was a rather surprisin' thing, given how controlled she normally is." she said, before turning back to her food. Kura, though, she looked back at the Immortal of Light. "Question for you though. If we hadn't been able to save her, and if Xander and Praetorum hadn't been able to hold you back while we did, what would you have done after?" she asked, her tone curious.

Then she looked at the group as a whole and smiled slightly. "For less serious topics, if you could have any one animal as a pet, what would it be?" she asked, her tone more cheerful now.

[Padraig]

The patience of a saint, that's what Padraig thought inwardly, grinning and knowingly so as he waited, hand resting on the back of Faith's chair, for her to light somewhere. If she'd have sat herself down straight away without personally greeting the others, then that would have been a woman that surprised him, and one he'd never known before. "Good evening all," he said to all the others when he finally took his seat. "Padraig Augustin," he added for those who he might not have met personally before.

Of course all of the ladies present at the table would be seated before he'd taken his own. But once he had and had a good look around, he smiled in appreciation at how exquisitely put together their current surroundings were. The pairing of the crystal hummingbird and box containing a single pistachio was an indication that those who had arranged this gathering, in some sense knew them exceedingly well. "It's perfect," he said, smiling as Faith's foot found his underneath the table. And even this night, she'd flitted and fluttered from place to place, busily greeting others and earned yet again the affectionate comparison he'd made now, so long ago.

As for the vial, it's contents as described by Saoire? Well, his curiosity about the events as they'd unfolded might have been reason enough to drink the potion down. But in addition to that, considering the nature of his life's calling, he'd have been showing a shocking lack of scholarly interest, had he opted to decline. And so he pulled out the crystal stopper, and consumed it. "Chef's Choice, please," he said politely when asked. When the first course arrived, he couldn't have been more pleased with the large sea scallops, sauteed to perfection in brown butter, resting on a bed of fresh greens.

Of course he'd been curious to learn who might be occupying the empty seat at their table, and it's occupant revealed herself soon enough when the Immortal Qylios appeared. Padraig smiled, and dipped his head respectfully. "My lady," he said. Her question however, gave him quite a bit of food for thought, though he smiled a little when Faith was quick to respond. As ever, she was forthright and held nothing back. As for himself?

"I believe the head and the heart, my lady," he said, "is the key to maintaining and keeping a bond such as the one you're describing, and to prevent it from becoming a danger or weakness. Admittedly, as a scholar and scientist, I tend to focus more frequently on one than the other." This was true, but that didn't mean that some matter of free thinking or imagination didn't enter into the process. "Emotion, or that instinctual gut feeling, being matters of the heart, can easily spiral out of control if contemplation, logic and reasoning is pushed out or cast aside. I believe a deep emotional bond can become dangerous when one, heart or head, is relied on to the complete exclusion of the other."

But did he have a question for the Immortal? Well, perhaps, though others at the table had already raised very good inquiries of their own. Still, "I wonder. As I understand it, unless I'm mistaken, due to all that's occurred, the Immortals have been freed to change, in some manner? If there was anything you could change then, what would it be?" As for the rest of them at the table? "If the most straightforward definition of progress is the forward or onward movement towards a particular destination, we can assume that a scientist might view a desired path of progress in one way, an engineer another and, perhaps an artist, in yet another. What is your personal definition of progress," he asked.

[Nir'wei]

From the moment he'd received his invitation, he'd been inundated with surprises. As he was led to the table that he'd be occupying for the rest of the night and caught glances of the others he'd be sharing it with, he found there was at least one more in store. His chair was forgotten in favour of grabbing Faith and squeezing her in a nice tight hug. His wolves likewise scattered around the table, absorbing the fuss they got and making a nuisance of themselves. By the time he finally settled in place to look at Faith, Padraig, Doran and Kura, there was quite a silly little smile in place. Not even Kura's question could deflect from that, though it must have looked rather off-putting when he turned to her and actually laughed. "I died, Kura." Talking about it and asking if he was 'okay' seemed rather moot. He'd died, he'd watched himself die and so had everyone else. Now he was back, yet again. The scarring that they'd earned when all was said and done spoke for itself. It seemed only fitting when he looked down as well at the table and found a crystal item waiting for him. A small crystal squirrel. Only he might really understand the significance of that, though Arch certainly took a moment to admire it.

He'd almost forgotten that they were actually there for a meal until he looked to the table and found small sweet snacks, a special kind of Desnind darkened chocolates, prepared directly before his seat. There was also the matter of the meals themselves, and of course he went for the most unique thing he could possibly think of - the Chef's Choice. It turned out to be a rather extensive collection of meats from a variety of different animals, a large number of which he'd never heard of before - but, predictably, each one left him salivating for more. He washed it all down with healthy doses of the alcohol, as well. Even while never knowing of Saoire's effect on this place and the drinks they consumed within it, he knew that strong drinks would pair well with strong meats, and he was not disappointed in the flavours it created... nor the warm glow that helped alleviate some of the more serious conversations his fellows had turned to almost immediately, it seemed like. Considering that vials had been provided for each and every familiar he'd brought, the effect was rather strengthened, too. They'd all grown so used to experiencing things through the senses of just one extension... suddenly experiencing the same through every single avenue at once seemed to throw balance out of the window, and Nir'wei found himself lounging in his chair, head lolling back, as he tried to simply absorb it all.

The rest of his companions all took their time to enjoy their respective gifts at that moment... and had he been aware enough, he might have really appreciated the level of depth she must have gone through to determine the right gift for each and every one of them. Greyhide got a very soft and comfortable looking pillow, which he immediately used to rest his head. Cold got a small sphere that seemed to radiate warmth, excellent for the thin wolf. Myrth got a necklace covered in ornate beads and symbols, a perfect recreation of a memory from home. Squeak got a soft toy in the shape of a small wolf, which he cuddled between his forelegs when he finally stopped bouncing everywhere. Castile got a little vial that seemed to smell of wet woodland, but she was utterly infatuated it and seemed to almost drift into a meditative state with the open end pressed to her nose. Kin got a small fuzzy blanket that made her whimper, but despite it being clearly far too small for her, she looked like she wanted to bury herself in it from the moment she laid eyes on it, since it was an exact replica of one belonging to someone she held dear. Archailist got a sharpened tree branch that almost looked like a sword or a spear, that he thoroughly enjoyed swinging about like a swordsman. Cyshe got her own little vial of some strange ephemera-laced water that she found great enjoyment in manipulating into streams through the air, and Gaddwin got the same with ephemera-laced fire that didn't burn anything it touched, but could be manipulated freely for his own amusement, even creating little warm spots to nest in. Vabina got a squeaky toy that didn't get destroyed in three seconds. They all seemed very thoroughly pleased with the gifts, and for that, he was beyond pleased.

When he next looked up, however, Qylios was there.

He tried not to let his good spirits diminish, but... well, frankly, he didn't like her, and didn't do a good job of hiding that fact. Her question took him a moment to properly process, before he really ended up making an outburst that might ruin the night, but thankfully it seemed as though his mind had been running the same track as the others around the table. "Bonds are not weaknesses. If you have a bond with someone, and you do something st--" Greyhide snapped at him before he could finish the sentence. "... If you have a bond with someone, and you make an error of judgement related in some way to that bond... it is not the bond's fault. At the end of the day, you are the one that made that judgement. You are the one that acted on it." He shook his head and tried to make sense of his own thoughts - because at that moment there were a lot of them, stemming from many different wolves. Greyhide was frankly insulted. Cold thought he understood her point but Myrth wondered if she yet had the mind of a child. "As to my dangerous bond... I handle it in my own way. Our circumstances are unique. It's not worth mentioning. But it is no different. I act through it; it acts through me. I would never cut myself off from it and I would never let anything come between us." He didn't really think there was any merit to calling Sage before Qylios, so he didn't. The less she knew, the better. "The only difference is, I didn't make a promise I'll later regret, or can't keep."

He paused, pursing his lips. "I get to ask you a question, now." It was exceedingly rare that he should ever have one of these chances with an Immortal, and he knew it. He could ask something tame from her, something simple and discrete. "What is the Empyrean Gateway, really." Nevermind. "Why did it bring me back from the dead. Turn Tio into an Immortal. Bind me with an Emean. What is it. Why is it out there. Is it even really a gateway to the afterlife, or is there something else that even Audrae wouldn't know."

[Vulpes]

The Air Table

Rose’s answer to Qylios's question was immediate. “Your bonds were never the problem, dearie—you mustn’t blame yourself. It was that dreadful Audrae and her schemes that are at fault for this.”

Emmett took a little more time to think, waiting for the others to speak before saying his piece. "All bonds have the capacity to be dangerous. The trick is to have the strength to defend them, the wisdom to see when they're being used against you, and the wit to find a way forwards.“

To these answers, and all the other, Qylios listened carefully, before nodding as the last one was given. ”Thank you, all of you, for your insight and wisdom. If we immortals are to change for the better, we must do so without losing ourselves in the process, and you have all helped me with that tonight.”

Turning to Faith, Qylios considered her question. “I cannot speak for all of my brethren, but I believe many of us would be interested in that, yes.” She rubbed her jaw, worry flickering across her eyes. ”Some of us have had the thought that excessive fracturing is what caused the Shattering of our creators. It is not a theory any of us wish to put to the test, and if you were to find a way to heal fracturing, I’m sure those at risk—the ones who have created mortal races, and those who have fractured in recent events—would be immensely grateful. Moseke, in particular, I’m certain would be happy to help you in whatever way she can—healing is an aspect of life, and besides that, she is the immortal most at risk, having fractured both from the creation of the Sev’ryn, and from the resurrection of Daia.”

To Doran, she gave a soft smile at his question. “Araman was a man who devoted himself wholly to the things he cared for. His city, his crew, his family… I was there when he first held his newborn daughter, and from the moment he laid eyes on her, it was clear to everyone she had become his entire world.” She smiled sadly. “As much grief as Audrae has caused through it, the memory of his boundless love for her will shine in my mind forever.”

Kura’s question was met with a moment of silence as Qylios considered. “Whatever I could,” she said finally, “to mitigate the effects of what I had done. As much trouble as it has caused, having Audrae freed of the oath entirely would be worse. Helping evacuate Scalvoris would be my priority initially. Past that I would devote myself to keeping the mortal population safe from the—” her lips pursed tightly “—devastation my kind are capable of.”

“What would I change,“ Qylios mused when Padraig asked. “You have all spoken to me of the importance of flexibility, of contemplation, of keeping control. I would endeavor to have such qualities, to be more thoughtful in the things I do instead of acting according to my immutable nature.”

“The Empyrean Gateway,” she told Nir’wei, “is older than we Immortals are. Our creators, the Originals, used it to explore Emea while they were still with us—we don’t know if they created it, or if it was there when they arrived. Some of us have maintained it since the Shattering, but the truth is, we are more focused on Idalos than our creators were, and have had little to do with it. It brought you back to life because it is life that powers it, in part, and some of that seeped out into you. As for Tio… I wish I could tell you, but I’m afraid I don’t know. I’m sure some of my fellows have theories—I have wondered if some of the power of our creators might not have lingered in it—but theories are all we have.”

Then came the group questions, more lighthearted than the rest. Rose sighed dreamily at Faith’s question. “A rose for a Rose, maybe,” she said, eyes already growing distant as she started to imagine such a book. Emmett simply shrugged. “Something dry, I expect. A taxonomy on equine biology, perhaps.” Qylios’s smile at the question was tinged with melancholy. ”The Sun and the Light,” she said simply.

Doran’s question seemed to lead neatly into her explanation of such an answer. ”I would bring my kind together again,” she said in response. “I’d want everyone to have someone,” Rose said. “Friend, family, partner… no one should be alone.” Emmett grinned a little sheepishly. “I was going to say I’d want to be able to speak to animals, but I think I like your answer better, Rose.”

Rose seemed to light up at Kura’s question. “Parrots have always seemed so delightful.” Emmett didn’t answer verbally, instead just dropping his gaze to the crystal figurine of a horse beside his plate before looking back up with an amused expression. “I’ve always been partial to dogs,” Qylios mused.

Emmett answered first this time. “Progress for me is being better the next day than you were the last.” Rose, though, tipped her head to the side at that. “Really? Progress for me has always been like reshelving—putting things back where they belong until everything is in the best place for it.” ”Until recently, progress for me has alway been becoming more of myself. Now… I suppose I will have to discover that for myself.” Qylios stated.

Telka
Saoire's Realm

The food was served, the music played quietly in the background and the tables were visited by the Immortals. There were the noises of general conversation, chatting and eating.

As the first course was finished, Saoire spoke again, stepping into the open area with the tall windows behind her. The night sky glimmered with the light of a thousand stars and she smiled in pleasure as she spoke. "I hope you all enjoyed your first course," as she spoke, fairies fluttered around her and their giggling was tinkling music. As the waiters moved around, clearing the tables of the first course, Saoire's voice rang out clearly in the room.

"As I said, we will be celebrating achievements of individuals and groups," she explained. "And the first of those is the most important, I feel." Her shimmering white dress caught the starlight and it glistened rainbow colours. "Every one of those involved stepped forward and gave all they could, but there are two who deserve the greatest of accolades and all the thanks we have to give." Her green eyes were serious as she looked at them.

"Two people stepped forward and offered themselves in an act of bravery," she said. "And their sacrifice meant that there was less death, that a child was given the childhood she deserves. But it is important that the first thing we do is to acknowledge the bravery of the two."

She gestured to the table where Nir'wei sat and she spoke directly to him. "You stood forward and sacrificed yourself in full knowledge of what you faced. Your bravery is beyond compare and every person on Scalvoris, and each Immortal owes you a debt that can never truly be repaid. Your gift was freely given, even though you knew its cost so well. Please, join me in giving thanks to Nir'wei. Those who were there may speak of it, if they wish" Immediately, Eckman stood. One might have thought that he was going to clap, but that was not what he did.

"Your bravery that day" said Eckman, his eyes on Nir'wei, "was a light in a time of darkness and I am inspired by you." He remained standing, as Stan, Jacien, Rose and Professor Fridson stood. They did not speak, for they were not there, but they stood in thanks to him. Saoire stood and watched as every person who wished it thanked the man who had given his life. Each of the Immortals did, standing up at the table they had sat at for their first course and giving their personal thanks dealt with at each individual table

When it was done, Saoire moved over to where Nir'wei was and she leaned forward to kiss him on the cheek. "Your bravery is without doubt, without question," she said to him, her voice serious as he green eyes regarded him. "The actions of all those present meant that we Immortals can change, can grow. It is my hope that in doing so, we are inspired by actions such as yours."

With a smile to him, Saoire put a small gift next to his plates. It was wrapped and tied. "No thing, no item or trinket can give thanks to you, but this token is just that," she said to him, "a token. Thank you, Nir'wei."

She kissed him again, and then walked back to the stage. Eyes turned to Nir'wei as those gathered more or less expected a speech, it seemed. If he gave a response, though, was up to him.

Telka
Saoire's Realm

Once everyone had sat back down, the waiters had cleared the first course. There was a small glass left on each setting, a palate cleanser - a refreshing drink which tasted of fruit. Each taste was different, of course, and was the juice they liked the most. Saoire spoke again. "There is another," she said. "who willingly sacrificed himself that trial. His soul was turned into a wisp, and this trial, in Zuudaria, the realm of Famula - a new body was made for him. His soul was carried by two brave men who bore him to the realm of the unquiet dead, so that he could be restored."

Behind her, a portal opened and Saoire smiled. "Please," she said. "join me in welcoming Bao, Darius, Zoro and Joy." This time she did applaud, as did the Immortals and those seated at the tables. When they came through, they were shown to their table, to their seats. They, too, had the small gifts and snackssee the mod post above for clarity and once they were seated, Saoire spoke again. "There are no words to say how proud I am of you, Bao, nor how grateful to the three of you." The three of them would find small wrapped gifts waiting for them. "There are tokens of thanks at your table, but the world owes you each a debt."

As the new arrivals settled down, the second course was brought out for them all.

Air Table

“There is no thanks I can give you that can match what you have given,” Qylios said softly when it was her turn to speak. “but you have it all the same. May your heart never waver, and your light never dim.” She lowered her head to him, a look of deepest respect in her eyes.

“And with that, my friends, I will relinquish you to my fellows. You have given me much to think about, and I thank you all for it. I bid you farewell for now, and wish you a pleasant evening.” And with that, Qylios stood and left, but not before smiling once more at every person seated at the table.

Saoire introduced the new arrivals—Bao, Darius, Zoro and Joy—just as the next immortal arrived at their table to join them for the next course. Daia, the Mother of Lions, approached, and took her seat, applauding the quartet as she did so.

”Hello all. I am Daia, and it’s a pleasure to join you for this course.“ She smiled warmly at each of them in turn. ”I hope we can get to know each other, by asking a few questions of one another.“ She paused as the second course arrived—for Daia, it was a steaming hot bowl of soup with noodles—before continuing. ”This is not the first time a great event has shaken the world, and a great deal has happened in the past few arcs alone. Which event, big or small, has had the biggest effect on you in the past few arcs?“

”Of course, if you have questions for me as well, I would be happy to answer what I can.“

OOC Info

Please split your post into the following sections.

• First Course:
  • Here you should answer the questions posed by other PCs.
  • You may also respond to the Immortal more (but no more questions, cos they're leaving in a bit)
• Between Courses:
  • This is where you respond to Saoire's tribute to Nir'wei.
  • If you were in the "Life Forged, Death Forged" thread where Nir'wei died, you are invited to speak to him directly.
  • Please make sure you state if you stand up or not. All NPCs stand.
• The Arrival
  • This is where Bao et al arrive. Please respond to that as you see fit, but let us know if you stand / clap etc. Bao, Darius and Zoro - please start your post from the point of your arrival.
• Second Course
  • Here you get to answer the question of your new Immortal table-mate.
  • Also, you get to ask your own question of the Immortal.
  • And each of you may ask a new Group Question.

Specific Gifts

• Bao, Darius and Zoro - you have the crystal gift from last round. Please describe it in your post.
• Nir'wei, Bao, Darius and Zoro also have a wrapped gift next to their plates. This is an item which is additional to the crystal gifts from last round. The wrapped gift is an item with an enchantment on it - the nature of the enchantment will be revealed in the review, but you get to decide what item it is. Please describe it.

Objectives

• Please describe what small crystal item you have. (Bao, Darius, Zoro only – Everyone else did this last round)
• Please describe the item you find next to your plate (Bao Darius, Zoro and Nir’wei only – base item is your choice – enchantment will be rewarded at review)
• Make a menu choice! (Second course)
• Describe an edible decoration on your second course meal
• Describe the flavor of juice your small glass contains
• Answer the question you have been asked by Daia
• You may ask Daia up to two things. This may be a request for information, for understanding, or a plea to do something. Up to you!
• You can ask up to one question of everyone at the table (including Daia) . PLEASE ONLY ASK THESE GROUP QUESTIONS this round - we'll direct you to answering them next round.

Next Post: Sunday 29th August

[Doran]

First Course

“You’re welcome, Albarech“, Doran replied when Kura thanked him again for his help in the temple and inclined his head before he turned to listen to how the other people at his table answered Qylios’ question. All of them had a point in his opinion. Nir’wei was rather blunt, he decided – he was pretty sure that the Councilor of Natural Affairs had wanted to say “stupid” before Greyhide had interrupted him – but that was not necessarily a bad thing, and either way, it did not seem as if Qylios had a problem with that.

“If you need any help with the research aspect, Mrs. Augustin”, he spoke once Qylios had confirmed that she would be interested in healing fracturing. “Let me know. I’ve done some research into the Originals”, he added in a calm tone of voice.

Back before he had found out about the Oath that Audrae had manipulated most of her fellow Immortals into, he had theorized that she was planning on studying her daughter’s blood – the girl was descended from two Originals rather than just one like most Mortalborn – in order to figure out what had caused the Originals to shatter and use that knowledge to threaten her brethren with the same fate.

He was not sure if his assumption was correct anymore which was why he did not mention it, but he still believed that blood could be a source of knowledge.

When Qylios replied to his own question and called her son “Araman”, his eyes widened a hint. He had been wondering what the Warden’s real name was – and realized that he had known the answer for a long time.

In hindsight, it should have been obvious.

In Cylus, he had started his research into the conflict surrounding Slag’s Deep and asked Faith for help. In the letter that she had sent to him, she had mentioned the Pirate Lords. One of them had been Araman Musizu who had been known as “The Ageless”. His ship had been the “Wicked Reaver”, and his flag had been a smiling skull over crossed bones. He had been rumored to be a Mortalborn, of Xiur, Cassion or U’frek., but in truth he had been a Mortalborn of Qylios.

Had been – for the way in which the Immortal spoke about her son made it obvious that he had died.

That was likely why he had not joined his daughter in the Heart of Scalvoris, he realized.

“My condolences”, he said in a somber tone of voice and bowed his head.

When the group questions came, Doran did not answer right away, but thought about them for a few moments. “A Light in the Darkness, maybe”, he answered Faith’s question in a somewhat thoughtful tone of voice – those two things that were often thought to be polar opposites, but actually depended on each other had played a big part in his life as well as in the events in the Glass Temple and the Heart of Scalvoris.

“I agree with you, Rose”, he said to the librarian when the group answered his own question. “No one should ever have to be alone, and I hope that everyone will eventually find someone. Being able to speak to animals would be an interesting ability though”, he said to Emmet, smiling slightly. He hadn’t known him before, but he found his company enjoyable, he decided. The mortal seemed to possess a certain sense of humor.

“If there was one thing that I could change”, he spoke a moment later. He didn’t know if he was supposed to answer his own question, but he decided to do so anyway. “I would make people realize that there is hope, no matter how dark and desperate things may seem.”

Kura’s question took him the longest to answer. He had never been an animal person and had had no real desire to acquire a pet either. He was not entirely sure of his ability to take care of one, to be honest. “A falcon, maybe. I’ve always admired the species’ eyesight and the way that falcons look when they fly”, he admitted, smiling slightly once more.

“For me, progress is a positive change compared to before”, he answered Padraig’s question, more or less echoing what Emmett had said. He had to admit, he liked what Rose’s answer as well though. The librarian, he decided as he cast a glance at her, was unusually wise sometimes.

Between Courses

When the first course was finished – a part of him almost regretted that there weren’t more of those delightful stuffed peppers – and Saoire spoke again and remarked that she hoped that they had all enjoyed their first course, the Mortalborn inclined his head slightly. He really had – and he had enjoyed all other aspects of this evening that had been quite magical so far.

He did not think about the food that had been exquisite or the sky that shimmered with the light of a thousand stars for long though. When Saiore reminded them that they would be celebrating achievements of individuals and groups, he looked at her, the expression on his face serious. A moment later, he turned to Nir’wei who he shared a table with.

When Eckman stood, he immediately followed suit and inclined his head in a gesture of the deep respect – for Nir’wei deserved nothing less in his opinion. “Your bravery that trial in the Heart of Scalvoris”, he said a moment later in a firm and serious tone of voice, his eyes on his fellow Mortalborn. “Was an inspiration, as Eckman said. Few would have had the courage to do what you did and sacrificed themselves, in full knowledge of the cost. I thank you for what you did, Nir’wei, from the bottom of my heart.”

“Because of you, an innocent child has a chance now”, he finished. He had meant every word that he had said, and he did not sit down again until the people around him had done so.

The Arrival

The small glass that the waiters had left at Doran’s place setting contained orange juice, the kind of juice that he had always liked the most, sweet rather than sour and quite refreshing. He drank from it, enjoying the taste, but when Saiore spoke, he set the glass down again and focused on her instead. When the portal opened behind her, his eyes widened slightly. He applauded together with the others and welcomed the arrival of Joy, Darius, Zoro and Bao, the bravest of them all. He also stood, as was appropriate in his opinion.

Apparently, he realized as his gaze slowly drifted from the Cadouri and the two men that had taken him to Zuudaria to the girl, she had received a name in the meantime. He had to admit, he liked “Joy” better than “Warde” which was what Enri Von Smooglenuff had called her in his book. He offered her a friendly and encouraging smile and watched her as she was taken to her table. He wondered what would happen to her now. They had saved her, but there were without a doubt people that were less than happy about her existence.

In his opinion, Joy only deserved the best though, and a chance at a real life.

Second Course

Doran wanted to ask Qylios if she would play a part in her granddaughter’s future, but the Immortal was already leaving, and then the second course arrived, with another utterly delicious surprise for him. This time, his plate contained butternut squash ravioli, with a sauce of brown butter and sage, whole cloves of garlic, olive oil and parmesan. Every ravioli was decorated with rosemary, thyme and sage that had been placed in the exact centre. The herbs were primarily meant to please the eyes, but they complimented the taste of butternut squash quite nicely.

When Daia arrived at their table, Doran returned the warm smile that she gave them before he inclined his head utterly respectfully – he was one of her marked. Her question caused a thoughtful expression to appear on his face, and he furrowed his brow for a few moments before he finally replied in a firm tone of voice, “The Mummer’s Ball in Rharne that took place last Vhalar had the biggest effect on me. I found hope there. The Mummer’s Ball was when both Xiur and you marked me”, he added, so that the others would have some sort of idea of why that trial had had such an effect on him.

It had been at during the Mummer’s Ball that he had found out that Xiur had forgiven him for what he had done during the battle at Treid’s Tomb, and that he did not have to worry anymore. For a moment, he thought about Vega’s kind words, the dance he had shared with Xiur, and how he had knelt in front of him – and how they had all danced together, and he had met Daia for the first time – and then he focused on the present once more.

There was something that he could not help but wonder about now that it was clear that Araman Musizu and the Warden had been the same person. When Daia offered to answer their questions, he thus asked, “Araman was not alone. He had companions, nineteen all in all. As the Immortal of Companionship, do you have any idea what happened to them, and where they are now?” he wanted to know. He was speaking about the Pirate Lords, of course. There had been twenty once upon a time, including Araman himself, and they had ruled Scalvoris for one hundred arcs.

Their true home was somewhere under Scalvoris, provided that his research was correct. He could not help but wonder if they had returned there, and why their fate was not known.

“My second question is a more personal one”, he admitted. “How is Ti’atha, nowadays, if you don’t mind me asking?” he wanted to know, smiling slightly. Mother and daughter had been reunited during the events of the Mummer’s Ball. He wondered how Ti’atha had fared since then.

When it came to the new group question, Doran decided on one that was perhaps a little less complicated than the last one. “If you could safely visit any place, on Idalos or in a different plane of existence, in the past or in the present, including places that do not exist anymore, which one would it be?” he asked and looked at the others.

[Faith Augustin]

First Course

It was lovely, Faith thought, to be able to sit and spend a little time among friends when there was no war, no necromantess, no threat. Where, in fact, there was just good food and good company. She smiled at Doran as he asked after her and how she was and Faith nodded. "I'm well. Very well," she said, her hand finding Padraig's. His question to the table surprised her a little and she thought about it for a long moment.

It was, to Faith, something of a head-scratcher. Not, perhaps, for the reason that might be assumed, but instead because of who she was. "I can," she said softly. She paused, then, and explained. "For the longest time, I was where I was and I knew who and what I was and what my worth was. I was unshakeable. And then, Tristan bought me, and I told him I wanted to learn. He got me a tutor and I fell in love." She smiled at her husband. "I believed, whole heartedly, that I could not and should not change anything about who I was. I was born to serve." She smiled. "And then, Tristan asked me if I wanted to be free, and the whole world changed." Shrugging slightly, she continued. "If there is any change I wish to make, I can make it. No disease is incurable, nothing is impossible. There is no "can not", I believe, there is just "have not yet." and that's a very different thing." She shook her head slightly. "Apologies, I'm perhaps over thinking. I have been known to do that." She smiled.


Kura's question was equally difficult for her. Faith was, always, prone to over analysing and she considered it very carefully. Then, she answered entirely seriously. "I think I would have an elephant," she said. She was entirely serious. "Everyone is bigger than me, so that isn't an issue. And, no one would be bigger than me when I was on top of my elephant friend. Plus, I've always wondered about their toes." She nodded, thoughtfully. "Do they have toes? I mean - if they do, why? Their feet are huge and flat, as far as I know. In bipeds, toes serve a purpose. In quadrupeds, I believe they do too, but an elephant doesn't need to have a better grip. So. Yes. An elephant. With or without toes." She beamed at Padraig. "Where would we keep it!?"

Padraig's question was much easier. "I don't think that you can define progress in the abstract," she said. "I think it is a contextual phenomena which is determined by a number of measurable factors. You can't determine progress until you know where you started from, where you would like to be and how fast you expect to travel. It depends entirely on the context. If I was able to find my way back to our room without someone helping me or a large map I can stand in, that would be progress. Making an omelette, would not be. You're abstracting a contextual and situational phenomena Professor, and that is just cheating." She beamed at him.

When Qylios said that she believed they would be interested, Faith smiled. "Thank you," she said. She nodded to Doran "I'd love to collaborate. We've set up a small settlement, it's still in the process of being built, called Eureka. It's the other side of the mountain near Volta, outside Rharne. It's a retreat for scientists and academics. You are more than welcome." Of course, she said that to Doran, and then added. "You all are.".

Between Courses

When Saoire gave tribute to Nir'wei, Faith did not hesitate. Tears of pride and delight shone in her eyes as she stood in tribute to him. She listened to the words of the Immortals, of those who had stood with him in the Forging and she did not hide her tears. He deserved the moment, the recognition. He'd probably hate it, she considered, but at the same time he'd be hurt if they hadn't done it.


What a strange and wonderfully complex thing mortality was, Faith considered with a smile.

The Arrival

The arrival of Bao, Darius and Zoro was another cause to celebrate and Faith stood and clapped. She didn't make whooping sounds or any kind of fuss, that wasn't her way. But her applause was heartfelt and she watched them carefully. The child, Joy, seemed to be unhurt and not obviously traumatised. Faith hoped that the Immortals had seen to her, but she was sure that they had.

Faith sipped at the sweet lime flavour drink she had in front of her and smiled. It was, truly, delicious.

Second Course

The second course arrived and Faith smiled in pleasure. A light crab salad with a ginger and honey dressing. She was delighted when she realised that there were tiny fish-shaped croutons which added a delectable crunch to the meal. Daia joined them and Faith bowed her head. "Lady Daia, it's a pleasure," she said. Daia had questions for them, what event had the biggest effect in the last few arcs? Faith considered it. "Meeting my husband, five arcs ago now," she said. "Or, more recently, having our children." With a smile at the Immortal, there was no doubt in Faith's mind. Thoughts of abolishing slavery on Scalvoris, the defeat of Ellasin, the curing of the Rynmere Plague or The Rot, none of those things held a candle to her family.

As for her question, it was much the same as before, but this was a particular Immortal. "Lady Daia, forgive my directness, but it is my hope to understand fracturing better so that I may work on a cure for it," she said. "If what I saw when I drank the vial is true, both yourself and Cassion fractured during the Forging, in the balancing. Would you consider allowing me to examine you and study your fracture and your blood?" She smiled then, and gave a half-apologetic shrug. "I don't mean now, of course. But if it can be cured, which I believe it can, then that would help me enormously to find that cure." She considered what she'd ask the group this time, considering Daia was there, and that was obvious. "What kind of dancing do you like?"

[Padraig]

First Course

Padraig's first course was delicious, naturally as it appeared not only to have been expertly prepared, but beyond that, arranged precisely to suit his preference. He ate, but primarily his focus was largely reserved for the conversation between Immortal, and those others seated around the table. And just when the plates had been collected in order to clear the way for a second course, Saoire returned to speak to them all. As she reminded them all, they'd been gathered here to celebrate the individuals and groups of others who'd risen to the challenge of saving Scalvoris, and perhaps more than that, and individuals besides, who'd gone a very large step farther than that.

Apart from what Kura had told him and Faith earlier, if Padraig had not swallowed down the vial a few bits earlier, the picture of what had happened would have been measurably less vivid than it was now. The names would have somehow seemed less familiar, even if he'd only just learned the names of a particular few. Those he hadn't met before this particular evening. But then, having not been there himself, nor a part of it, as each new individual entered, beginning with Nir'wei, Padraig would stand and applaud appreciatively, but leave the words to the rest of those others who'd personally shared the experience.

Between Courses

Padraig returned to his seat and discovered a small glass there, with some sort of juice in it. Perhaps a swallow of something that clear the palate for the next course to come. Smiling, he picked up the glass and swallowed it down, and then smiled. Not something he had often, but pineapple, and of all juices, it was his favorite. And of course, he rose from his seat once again with four more individuals were shown into the room, one of them a small girl looking just a bit overwhelmed, and he applauded again as the four were introduced and received their well deserved praise. Great courage, apparently, could as easily come in very small, and furry, bodies, as any other in all of the land.

As the second course was being brought out, he turned his full attention back to Qylios, taking in any wisdom that she cared to impart. The Immortal's response to Faith's question was of particular interest, since, because they so often worked together by combining, each, their own fields of expertise, he might at some point find himself involved in that as well. And naturally too, he fully appreciated the wisdom in her thoughts on his own question. It was a response that he might have hoped for, had he thought to predict the outcome.

The question had been asked about favored pets, and grinning before glancing at Faith, Padraig responded. "I wonder if we've already got all of the pets that we can handle, though our children might surely disagree. In such a case, I would leave that choice to them....Within reason," he was quick to add, just as a new plate was set down before him...and the Immortal Daia had arrived to take the recently departed Qylios' place. Again, Padraig rose politely, respectfully, and waited until she was seated before retaking his seat.

Second Course

The second course was as appealing as the first one had been. This time, almond crusted cod, bright green sprigs of broccolini, and a small fan of thinly sliced grilled pear. The pears had been sprinkled with candied lavender blooms, and to his surprise once he tasted one, they were delicious. As for a book about his life, Faith had asked earlier, to which Padraig had responded before Daia had arrived, "Explorer," he said simply, and just that one word. "Exploration in the realm of science and observing the heavens, walking where none like us have walked before, among others not of this world..." At least not recently. "and explorer in the realm of love and happy domesticity."

But then the Immortal, one who had been lost and now was found again, had a question for them, and Padraig considered it for a bit or two before responding. Arcs..Few was relative, Padraig supposed, but regardless of that, he already knew the answer. "I have to say, my lady, that of all the things that I have done, seen and experienced, even accomplished over the course of the past handful of arcs, the one defining event that acted as as the catalyst for all of the wonder, was the trial that this woman beside me showed up outside my door in search of a mathematics tutor." Padraig couldn't begin to predict how the course of his life since then might have differed from what was, had it not been the case.

As for a question he might ask her, that too Padraig thought on for a moment before responding. "I wonder my lady if having been gone for a time, and then returned, has the experience provided you with the opportunity for a new perspective in regards to the state of the world? If so, do you perceive a change larger for the better, no, or each in equal or measured parts?" he asked.