NationStates Jolt Archive

Renor brings his blade to a 90 degree angle, effectively blocking the blow, then in a movement of blinding speed, whips so that he's facing Cougar's side and smashes his blade down on the human's wrists.

OOC: Okay, catch ya lata

hahaha

Cougar dropped the sword, rubbing his wrists,"Alright, alright, thats me"

OOC: Helgahn, get it sorted. You cant even spell the name rite 'Helghan - Helghast'

Renor turns the blade back to Isra.

"You're good...a few more years, you could probably defeat me."

OOC: I recognise this punk, SE. It was before I got to even 100 posts...but I remember this punk.

OOC: Dint you force him out ages ago?

IC: "Thanks. It's good to know I measure up," said Cougar, nursing his bruises with White Flame, healing himself

OOC: Apparently, he's back.

IC:

Renor teleports out. Almost simultaneously, the room bursts into noise, as the students begin discussing the Renor/Cougar matchup.

OOC: Well, Time to wrap this up and get it closer to my Return Monday. Warfare can speak into Another beings mind. Any God may do this, it is not a hard trick to learn.

IC: Warfare heard what Costh had said.
"Costh, I am long lived, and have seen many many things. My battle with you awoke some bad memories, and triggerd Divine Preservation instincts. For that I apologize, I wish to make it up to you by teaching you more than Ishrem could ever Teach. He is Mortal, and inibited by certain strictures, I am Divine, and unresricted, come to me, and allow me to teach you the divine Runes, Runes, that have remained hidden from mortal knowledge for centuries, come to me Costh." Dark warfare said twice as convincing as before.

Warfare had been wandering around awhile, and he found it, the one mountain that never moved, Merlins Tomb. Raising his voice, he summond Cerberus.
"Cerberus, Guardian of Hell and the Afterlife, come to me, and bring the innocent, that Death may destroy Life itself and become supreme Ruler of All." Dark Warfare Summoned.

Cerberus appeared in a flash of Fire. Dark warfare unsealed the Tomb. Cerberus Spoke in a gruff Voice.
"Now go litle one, and remove all the metal off of the one inside, he stole that from us a long time ago, take it, and return it to us, the rightful owners." Cerberus Growled.

The little child wandered in, and with some difficulty, removed the Artifacts of Life from Merlin, the crumbled to dust before the boys eyes. Merlin awoke with a start and disappeared before he could do anything. Death Started, as he felt the total sum of his powers fill him. He appeared to the little boy, and gave him his gift, knowledge of the Reapers true Form. The Child went insane immediatly. The Reaper lifted his arms to the sky, and all light across creation got dimmer, as the Mortality Rate Doubled. This was made appearent in Mithdelmar when a perfectly healthy old woman dropped dead for no reason. Death Smiled, each soul that died, gave him more power. He remeberd the ones that defeated him before, and decided to destroy them and their damn White Tower First.

"I AM THAT WHICH COMES TO ALL EVENTUALLY, AND I HEREBY DECLARE WAR ON THE LIVING." Death Decreed across all creation. Nobody couldn't have heard it. Even the Deaf knew what was said. The gods knew fear once again, for not even they were immune to the personification of Death, but the one God who had spearheaded the War against Death before, was now on his side, who could possibly beat Death now?

OOC: Comming soon to the NS Forums, The Rise of Death.

OOC: Apparently, he's back.

IC:

Renor teleports out. Almost simultaneously, the room bursts into noise, as the students begin discussing the Renor/Cougar matchup.
Cougar looked around, then left the room. The match had left him weakened, and he felt tired. He returned to the room, and collapsed into bed. As he slept, he heard Death's call... What the hell was that?

The Head Mages of Kaymiril heard this, from their respective locations.

M -- Then the war is on...I have fought Death all my life...and no puny harbinger of evil will stop this.

***The Valshanth***

Princess Annastrianna d' Maril heard Death's challenge.

"You want a fight...you've got it." Going deep into the Valshanth's library, she found an ancient scroll...a secret scroll...An extremely difficult spell...designed to destroy divine energy...a twist of a word, and it would destroy anti-divine energy.

Cougar looked around, then left the room. The match had left him weakened, and he felt tired. He returned to the room, and collapsed into bed. As he slept, he heard Death's call... What the hell was that?
Rhenna and Vrasha finished up with Shan, who was now resting comfortably. Rhenna told her student to go get some food or rest...she'd stay in here for the moment. She, too, had heard the challenge...and wasn't going to let anything happen to the child in this room.

Cougar woke with a start. His skin was soaked, as were his clothes. He changed slowly, allowing himself to dry off. Death had returned... the war was beginning. He rubbed sleep from his eyes, and set off. He looked for Rhenna, she would have heard it as well. Eventually, he found her in the medical wing,"How is he?"

Leviathan started,What has happened?. He flew off, searching and calling for the God's. They needed to work together to to fight this war. He saw Cougar wake up, and decided that soon they would bring the Kaymirilian mages and their companions to Paradise

T -- Damn...even if we knew how to stop him, we couldn't have...

P -- We must just hope that there is something out there that can stop it. Mith, perhaps, knows the way.

T -- If anyone, she will.

***************************
R -- This opponent becomes irritating...and he comes back stronger this time.

V -- This upcoming battle will be the hardest.

*****************************
Rn -- He's better. I'd say out of danger, but with Death stronger...I don't know.

With Death as he is, nothing is safe anymore*laid his hand on her shoulder*But we've beaten him before, we'll do it again

This is my fault...if I hadn't responded to the Call, this never would have happened to him.

Cougar knelt in front of her, keeping his face level with hers,"It's not your fault. You couldn't help it, and Shan wanted to help... desperatley. And he did it for someone who he sees as a mother and sister rolled into one. Any student would have done it. Don't beat yourself up about it"

But somewhere along the line I forgot to teach him that he wasn't immortal...that he could get hurt...or killed...out there...and that, at the very least, was my responsibility. How would you have felt, had I actually died on Snake Eater Prime?

How do you think I would have felt? Distraught wouldn't sum it up.Look... sometimes things happen that hurt us. They make us stronger. This will make him a stronger person, with a healthy respect for enemies but enough respect for himself to not take stupid risks. We are born, we live, we die... the way of the world. *takes her hands*

True.

Concentrate on what is to come, not what has happened. I've seen men, good men, go crazy from doing that. We'll get through this, and so will he*gestures at Shan*If you want, I'll help you train him further... I want to give something back

I doubt you'll have much choice in that. He wants to beat you a round in a sword match.

Cougar smiled,"Good. He is willing to learn. Not yet though, I'm still tired from sparring with Renor"

You got a match with Renor...wow, an historic occasion. How'd it go?

Better than I hoped. He said that I could beat him within a few years. I didn't know it was historic... lots of chatter after it though

It doesn't happen that often, and both of you are good.

He's got age and expierence over me... but, I was amazed that I could even get close

Sword play was never really his talent. I remember it not being his talent. Still...the only mage in the entire Queendom more powerful than he is is Mith.

I know that much. He's still dangerous with a blade... and Mith if she lost it would be lethal to a degree I've never seen

Not if she "lost it"...if she decided to be. Especially now that she has sliver abilities, if she had slivers close. However...the battle I feel coming up...will drain all of us.

I feel it too, a chill in my bones. I do not know what will come of this, and there is so much left to do...

She grips his hand gently. "All we can do...is what we can. And that is what we will do."

He gripped her hand softly,"People come and people go, but I've got you. That's enough to fight for!"

She smiles at him briefly, then looks back at Shan.

"I remember when he was little...he was so incredibly cute. Look at him now...But he'll be a student I can be proud of, when he's grown up."

He'll be a great mage, I can see that even now.

Someday. But for now...he's just a child.

A child maybe... but one to be proud of.*he stands and stretches*

Sparring with Renor can take it out of you. Are you all right?

Stiff, I didn't stretch off before I slept. Other than that, normal run of the mill bruises and knocks. I'm fine... really*staggers slightly*

She nods. "Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight."

Cougar felt a wave of nausea sweep over him, and he sat down heavily on a spare bed,"Wooooohhhhhh! Must have lost a few more pints than I thought"

She goes over to him, putting her hand to his forehead to check for fever.

"Get some rest. I'll be in here, if you need anything."

I'm fine, just a little dehydrated I think. Don't worry about it. I'll have something to drink, but then I've got work to do

Get a drink, fine. But get some rest. You can rest of your own free will...or I will give you something to make you.

He thought carefully,"I'll go with rest as a choice, as opposed to being made."
Unless you want to join me of course... stop that James!

He kissed her, and left the room. He headed back to his room, and took out his water bottle. He took a swig, and then returned to his bed. Calmly, he slipped into a dreamless sleep...

OOC: lols @ his thought. I knew that had to come sometime.

IC:
Rn -- D'anthe...bring me that book. Just in case...better start preparing.

Rhenna looks through the book she'd been researching in before they'd left, and began gathering the ingredients. There was one plant that she'd have to just grow...it would take about thirty days to be ready. She planted it, then went back to sitting. She told D'anthe to return the book, and bring her the one on Dragons. Opening that, she began to read.

OOC: Lol, it just had to happen didn't it

IC: After nearly 8 hours of solid sleep, brought on by the pills he had slipped, Cougar rose, and clipped his cloakaround his shoulders. He looked at himself in the mirror, and shaved quickly. He rubbed his chin, noting the bruise from Renor's boot. He smiled, and left. He knew where to find Rhenna, and went to her,"Anything interesting?"

Not really. Sleep well?

Thanks to the drugs, yeah. If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't have got a wink. I keep seeing that god-damn vision again and again

She nods. Chronic nightmares, chronic insomnia...you need your head examined. *It was only part joke*

Nightmares; comes with the job. Insominia: Caused by the nightmares. I've seen alot of stuff that causes nightmares Rhenna, it isn't just old surppressed memories that cause me to suffer.

V -- And what price, Cougar, do you think this great peace that our country lives under comes at? How much do you think I've seen, that she's seen, that Renor's seen? Psychologically, we are no tougher than the average human...and we've had more time and opportunity to witness viloence, to kill, to be killed...or almost killed.

Rn -- Vedt...leave it.

V -- No, Rhenmet...before he can truly unlock his potential, he needs to know that he is not the only bleeding heart out there. He needs to know here *Jabbing his hand toward Cougar's heart*...not merely here. *Guestures toward his head.*

Rn -- Vedt, I said let it go. If you want to pick a fight with him, pick the fight elsewhere...I don't want you to wake Shan up.

V -- He should have been up hours ago. I understand that he went bad yesterday, but you're too lax with them. Renor was never so lax with us when we were children.

Rn -- *Stepping forward* And you'll notice that none of my students are vicious to the point of attacking their sparring partners.

V -- They're orphans. They don't have parents, they don't need parents. We are their family, but we can't take that place.

Rn -- We can damn well try to do our best by them...many of these come to us right out of the cradle. As you know. They're frightened, they're lonely, they don't know what's going on. Shan barely remembers his parents, I don't remember mine, it's not anyone's fault that you came to us old enough to remember what happened. And maybe he's grown up some, but you've sent out a twenty year old to do the work that Renor wouldn't have asked anyone younger than a century to do. Remember how that went?

*They're circling, angry*

Rn -- It's a harsh world, yes, and yes, they will have to face it some day...but he is only a child...and let him be a child, for just a few more years.

V -- Do not try my patience, Rhenmet...

Rn -- Why, because you're the right hand? Do you think that's because you're any better than I am? No...it's because Renor wants to prevent you from becoming another S'gart!

V -- How dare you...*his voice carries a deadly edge*

Rn -- Get out of here, Vedt. Leave. We will continue this conversation at a later time.

*Vedt teleports out, and Rhenna sighs, shakes her head, and sits down putting a hand to her head*

Rn -- *off hand* Differences in parenting styles, stemming out of different ways of seeing the world due to past experiences...what can you do?

Costh hearing what Warfare said, decided to activate the rune but not before his natural paranoia caused him to blaze a rune into the ground at his feet. The rune cause all who try to cast it to be driven to search for Cougar and bring him to the rune.
He then activated the rune which would take him to Warfare, will his shield rune activated.

ooc:Only Cougar can activate the rune, any other, they just get compelled to search for Cougar.

Ishrem had been seeking out Costh the old-fashioned way, when he sensed him activate a rune and teleport away.

"Fool! Does he not know the danger at hand?"

The rune Costh left pulses calling anyone it can get to it so it could fufill it's purpose. Anyone who was nearby was pulled to it by a feeling of intense curiosity.

Brilliant. A rune whose purpose is to draw you in, make you get some random person, so that that person can activate it, so that we can come save you. Do you realize just how slim a chance you really have? I need to find Mith...only she's off somewhere and there's only Jalron there. Princess Annastrianna knows some little bit about this god, but not enough to really be of help...and there isn't anyone else in Kaymiril that knows him at all.

ooc:It's a message rune, it doesn't force someone to do as the caster wishes just tries to get the person thats wanted to the rune or if they can find someone who can help they try to get them to help. It's basically a little nagging voice in the back of the head.

It's message is not anything to do with saving Costh or even any location. It has a message but not one that will 'help' anyone involved.

Costh realized it's a long shot but still worth trying.

ooc: Costh is 20

ooc:Costh has a plan, it might not be fully thought out but he does have a plan

V -- And what price, Cougar, do you think this great peace that our country lives under comes at? How much do you think I've seen, that she's seen, that Renor's seen? Psychologically, we are no tougher than the average human...and we've had more time and opportunity to witness viloence, to kill, to be killed...or almost killed.

Rn -- Vedt...leave it.

V -- No, Rhenmet...before he can truly unlock his potential, he needs to know that he is not the only bleeding heart out there. He needs to know here *Jabbing his hand toward Cougar's heart*...not merely here. *Guestures toward his head.*

Rn -- Vedt, I said let it go. If you want to pick a fight with him, pick the fight elsewhere...I don't want you to wake Shan up.

V -- He should have been up hours ago. I understand that he went bad yesterday, but you're too lax with them. Renor was never so lax with us when we were children.

Rn -- *Stepping forward* And you'll notice that none of my students are vicious to the point of attacking their sparring partners.

V -- They're orphans. They don't have parents, they don't need parents. We are their family, but we can't take that place.

Rn -- We can damn well try to do our best by them...many of these come to us right out of the cradle. As you know. They're frightened, they're lonely, they don't know what's going on. Shan barely remembers his parents, I don't remember mine, it's not anyone's fault that you came to us old enough to remember what happened. And maybe he's grown up some, but you've sent out a twenty year old to do the work that Renor wouldn't have asked anyone younger than a century to do. Remember how that went?

*They're circling, angry*

Rn -- It's a harsh world, yes, and yes, they will have to face it some day...but he is only a child...and let him be a child, for just a few more years.

V -- Do not try my patience, Rhenmet...

Rn -- Why, because you're the right hand? Do you think that's because you're any better than I am? No...it's because Renor wants to prevent you from becoming another S'gart!

V -- How dare you...*his voice carries a deadly edge*

Rn -- Get out of here, Vedt. Leave. We will continue this conversation at a later time.

*Vedt teleports out, and Rhenna sighs, shakes her head, and sits down putting a hand to her head*

Rn -- *off hand* Differences in parenting styles, stemming out of different ways of seeing the world due to past experiences...what can you do?


Cougar just sat calmly, all through Vedt's shouting match. He had heard worse from others, and he didn't care what Vedt had to say. Cougar would deal with his demons his own way, no one else could do that for him. He had his eyes closed, and he became deaf to all around him. When he had left, he opened his eyes,"Vedt's right. I need to get myself sorted... up here*taps his head*I'll be alright in time. And the differences between you two are deep and fundemental... conflict of ideologies more than anything. Another S'gart? That's a little harsh... but I can see your point"

Galvenor comes out of the meditative trance he entered almost two weeks before. He could feel something was not right. He reached out with his newly acquired senses and located those familiar to him. Galvenor then gripped reality and willed himself into their presence.

The air shimmered and Galvenor appeared.

“Something is wrong. The Balance is upset. What happened?”

Cougar looked at Galvenor,"Long time no see. If only we knew... we know that Death has returned, stronger than ever. As for Warfare... I fear the worst"

Galvenor looked puzzled by this comment.

"What do you mean? Tell me, what has happened? I can feel the Balance slipping away as we speak. If it is not fixed soon, it may stay this way."

Rn -- That's what we feel, Galvenor...somehow Warfare's dark side duality has emerged as the dominant force...and Death's powers, which legend says were sealed long ago...have been unsealed.

Cougar nodded at Rhenna's words. She had expressed it better than he could


As Galvenor vanished without warning (lol, you know I'm jokin Balrogga), he close his eyes again. He was deep in thought, trying to figure out how he could change himself for the better

I'm sorry about Vedt...he watched the deaths of his family...horrible deaths...and he's never forgotten. He was thirty when he came here...that would have made me about eighty...and now he thinks that had he just been stronger, maybe he could have saved them. So now everyone he trains must push themselves to be stronger, and he thinks that I should train my students that way, too. What he doesn't seem to remember is that children need someone that they can run to when they are afraid in the depths of the night, someone who will care about them no matter how many times they mess up.

Don't worry about it. I've heard worse insults and lectures from SHADOW instructors. It's an each to their own kinda thing... for example, Shan wants to beat me right? Not at the moment he won't, doesn't stand a chance. But, once he picks it up, he's good. He will beat me, and that in turn will drive me on, etc etc.

S -- *Eyes still closed* But I'll still beat you.

Cougar stared at him,"Yeah, good luck Shan. How you feeling now?"

I've felt better. I've felt worse, but I've definitely felt better.

Rn -- Stunt you pulled, I'm not surprised.

S -- Hey...don't be angry...

Rn -- You leave Rendelmar without permission going somewhere you don't know, you travel through the caves which is --

*silence*

Rn -- What is it, Shan...come on.

S -- Forbidden.

Rn -- Why?

S -- Because an inexperienced flier like me can take off his own head. But you should have seen it, Rhenna, it was sooooo cool! We were going so fast and I had to --

Rn -- And then you go into a dangerous scenario without first checking to see what it is you're getting into.

S -- But Rhenna....

Rn -- I ought to put you on dish duty for a month after you get out of here.

S -- But...

Rn -- However, we will go over your entire adventure and analyse all the mistakes you've made so that it doesn't happen again. Understood?

S -- Siyo.

Cougar smiled at Shan, leaving a message in his head,When you've recovered, come and see me. Don't say a word right now. Out loud he said,"At least you're awake now. And you've looked better!"

S -- Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Cougar had left that message in Shan's head for a reason. He wasn't trying to go behind Rhenna's back, but merely wanted to further Shan's combat training. His intentions were honourable.

He laughed at the young mage,"Get well soon, my friend"

He turned to leave, brushing his hand on Rhenna's as he did so,You know where to find me

He left, and made his way back to the exercise room. He stripped to the waist, and began to work himself fairly hard

Rhenna smiled at Cougar before he left, then turned back to Shan. There were things the young mage could learn even while he was laid up.

Cougar was hanging by his feet, when he heard a sound. He dropped to the floor,"Whos there?" he called, letting the White Flame burn softly in his hands

Only silence greets his question. No one is there...save for himself, the training room is empty, and the White Flame casts flickering shadows on the dark walls.

Cougar stared wide-eyed around him. Nothing, no-one. He turned to retrieve his shirt, and suddenly he was trapped. He couldn't move, there was liquid round his feet, and it was rising. His clothes dissapeared, and once again he was in the tube, staring at the scene around him...

In the real world, Cougar just collapsed. There was no thrashing, no movement. He just collapsed. His breathing was fast and shallow, but it was there...

He was found by a group of some of the younger children (they look about five to him), and they gather around him. One gets the nerve to go and poke him. "Guuan phor."

Cougar stirred slightly. His hand flexed a few times, and he sat up. He saw the children,"Ragar Rhenna. Tesso ilta Cougar zhah ghil, lu' uriu inbalus jalbyr thrityh" He spoke quickly and fluently, resting his head on the wall

Jugare...*one of them went and got Rhenna, and she comes. the children leave at a guesture from her*

*Kneeling in front of him* Another one, James?

"Not like the others," he said, running his hand through his hair,"This was no collapse, it was a full-blown halluncination followed by a collapse"

You're getting worse and worse...*She sits beside him* We might have to take you to Mithdelmar and see what they can do.

I doubt Mithdelmar could help me. As skilled as they are, nothing can stop this. I need... I need to get to Naggoden. The answer is at that outpost, I'm sure of it

R -- *entering* Then I guess you'll just have to go, won't you?

Cougar stood,"Then that is what I must do. You guys coming?"

Yes...I will go, as will she. Other than that, you have no assistence.

We need to go to Mithdelmar, we'll have to take the runabout. *clasps his cloak around his neck*Shall we?

R -- We both have instructions we need to leave. Prepare yourself...you have fifteen minutes.

Cougar nodded, and made for his room. He quickly grabbed his Gunblade, his pack, and then wrote an entry in the journal he had recovered,This may be the one and only entry that I make in this book. but I wish it to be known to future generations that I am proud to die in this manner. I love you Rhenna.

James Cougar

He closed the book, and went to the Great Hall, waiting...

Renor and Rhenna arrive.

R -- Ready? Then let's go.

Cougar nodded, and once they had arrived in Mithdelmar, he wasted no time in getting them out of the atmosphere. The engines heaved the Dauntless across the void, eventually causing them to dissapear in a brilliant flash of light. The clock was ticking

Death appeared. He looked like the sterotypical Grim Reaper, save for the fact that he had a Scyth of Pure Energy.

He searched, there was one soul he wanted most, Princess Annastrianna D'maril. It was her, she was the one that irritated him most, it was her, he most looked forward to killing. He simply thought of her, a shiny white thread appeared, it began to drift away from him, and lead him directly to Anna. Soon, he arrived.

"PRINCESS ANNASTRIANNA D'MARIL, IT IS TIME, FOR YOU TO DIE! I HAVE REGAINED ALL MY POWERS, AND SINCE YOU AND YOUR 'FRIENDS' HAVE BEEN A THORN IN MY SIDE, I GIVE YOU AND THE OTHERS THE HONOR OF BEING THE FIRST TO DIE AS I DESTROY ALL LIFE AND BECOME SUPREME IN THE AFTERLIFE. YOU CAN'T STOP ME, YOUR ALLIES CAN'T STOP ME, NOTHING CAN STOP ME! HOWEVER, I NEED NOT DESTROY YOU NOW, SUCH WOULD NOT BRING ME PLEASURE, I SHALL WAIT UNTIL YOU'VE GATHERED YOUR POWERLESS FREAKS AND FRINEDS TO STOP ME, THEN I SHALL HAVE THE PLEASURE OF DESTROYING YOU ALL." Death Rasped in a manner which litterally brought down the local temperature. All lplant life, and weak elderly people within 50 miles dropped dead. (Insirt evil laughter as death fades away)

OOC: Now posted in a forum near you, The Rise of Death!
http://www.forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=8488985#post8488985

Yes Theao, even you may join. In fact, your bit with Dark Warfare will be resolved over there.

OOC: I have announced the wizards council. The thread is here:
http://www.forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=8492888#post8492888
Please say something on our behalf.

OOC: Bump, just so you guys dont forget this thread exists. I still want major plot developments to happen here, such as the potion and.... other annoucements

IC: Cougar emerged in Rendelmar, having returned with Rhenna and Renor to the hidden city. He breathed in slightly, it had been some time since he had been here. First order of buisness, his journal. Turning to Rhenna, he said,"I'll see you later, I have some things to catch up on."

*Thought to her*How soon can it be ready?

She nods as green-tinged words flicker past his vision.

Maybe an hour to get everything in order, and I still need your blood. After that, it takes fifteen minutes to prepare and three hours to make. It's long and involved, and I have to sit with it for those three hours.

OOC: Kay, check PM's at the Council.

She nods as green-tinged words flicker past his vision.

Maybe an hour to get everything in order, and I still need your blood. After that, it takes fifteen minutes to prepare and three hours to make. It's long and involved, and I have to sit with it for those three hours.

He nodded in acknowledgement of her 'words', and then projected a further statement, his words tinted white Alright. I'm slightly nervous... but I can't wait for this. Come and find me when you're ready. He smiled, and turned on his heel,"See you later." He paused, and gave her a quick kiss, before heading back to his room.

As he found the journal, he took out a pen, and began to write:Well, here I am again. Yet another adventure is out of the way... but it will return. Strange, but not unexpected. By the time I write my next entry, my lifespan should far exceed that of a normal human. In theory... 250 years are mine to spend with Rhenna, and to master the White Flame. I look forward to these years with great trepidation.. He closed the journal, and tucked it in it's hiding place. Taking great care to shut the door, he went to the magick training room. This attack needed work...

OOC: It's only 200 years, doll.

IC:
Roughly an hour later, a little girl (the human equivalent of about seven) comes into the training room. She watches Cougar a bit, then speaks up.

"Rhenmet della uns'aa ulu inbau dos."

OOC: Thats including the maximum human life span of about 100 years. Although I doubt he'll live that long... more like 230. Oh, and I don't have the translator on this computer, not at home u see. Going to have to guess what she said...

IC: Cougar looked up, and picked out the speaker,"Thanks. I'll go meet here". As he walked, he did a quick check on his translator chip. It needed a quick service, which he did, and then began to work again. He just decided not to use Drow for a while.

As he came upon Rhenna,"Got your message"

Rhenna's prepping to draw his blood. "Good. She was a bit nervous about going and getting you."

Cougar couldn't help but smile at this last comment,"Scared? Of me? Why?"

She's never seen a human before, and you're a lot taller than the average Drow.

He thought carefully for a moment, then said ,"Yes, I can see why that would scare someone, who in my eyes, was only 6 or 7 years old.*Looks at the equipment*How much blood do you need again?"

A pint. Have a seat, James. *Tucks a lock of hair behind her ear*

He sat down,"I still can't quite believe we're doing this"

*takes his arm and selects a vein and rubs an alchohol pad over it, and puts her thumb over the spot she selects.* Hey, look at me. What, you're not afraid, are you?
*Slides the needle into the vein.*

He felt the needle, but ignored it,"Afraid? Of having more time to spend with you? Not at all... although this isn't something that I ever invisgned happening. Still*looks at her*I'm glad that it's for a very good reason"

Well, this isn't something done often. *keeps the needle where it is through an adhesive spell.*

He smiled, his free hand rubbing itself across the ring in his pocket,"Tell me Rhenna. Why exactly are we doing this? And I mean exactly"

His mind screamed at him just to ask her, but he held back. First, he wanted the answer to his question

Why? Because half a century or less is too short a time span to spend with you...because I love you.

He smiled even wider,"That's the only answer I needed to hear. Rhenna, theres something I've been meaning to ask you, and I never quite found the right time or place to do it. I've been thinking about this since Nagodden..."

His hand emerged from his pocket, and the emerald winked in the light,"I don't know how they do it here, so I'm doing it our way. Will you marry me,Rhenna?"


Oh, I hope this works

He's serious... I...*She smiles at him* Yes, I will marry you.

*By this time, she'd gotten enough blood from him, and she takes the little pouch, putting a square of guaze where the needle had been*

He heaved a sigh of relief,"You have no idea how good it is to hear you say that.*Stands up and embraces her, kissing her as he does so*

OOC: I'm going now, so I'll see you all tomoz. Kay, I will have IM back, so we can discuss the matter at hand properly. Other than that, have a gd day at wateva ur doing, and see you soon

She kisses him back, and smiles.

She then actually starts working on the potion.

He placed the ring on the table,"It's yours. Keep it. You don't have to wear it, it's kinda human thing". The emerald glittered in the light

He then left, kissing her on the cheek before he did so, leaving her to finish up the potion without distraction, and went back to the training room. There was an unmistakable lightness to his step and an aura of relief and joy,'She's actually going to marry me. I still can't believe it... but it's going to happen'.

As he came back into the room, he found it deserted, and he took the oppurtunity. This attack promised great power and damage, but he needed to learn to control it. Allowing the White Flame to erupt, he took up a stance with his legs shoulder width apart, his arms extended, his fingers forming the delta symbol. As he concentrated, the symbol began to flicker with raw energy, pure white. After a few seconds, he unleashed it. The flaming delta flew across the room, leaving searing afterimages on the air, before crashing into one of the targets.

One down. Needs more control though

" 'sohna," he said, the Drow coming from his mouth naturally. He took up the stance once more, and fired again. And again. And again. For nearly two hours he pushed himself, seeing the limit approaching him. When he felt ha had reached it, he sat down, and levitated over a drink of water. He sat with his back to the wall.

I'm getting married...

Within his chambers, Galvenor hovers deep within meditation. He is reaching out with his awareness attempting to discover the limits to his new abilities. He feels Cougars happiness and chuckles.

"I must remember to congraduate him."

With a fragment of his mind, he summons his demon he aquired from the last war. He carefully instrructs it to write a message with Blessed paper, quill, and ink. The demon whimpered in pain from the touch of the holy items. The smoke from it's burning flesh drifted slowly in the air for a moment until the Air Elemental in charge of filtering the air removed the stench. After a few tries, Galvenor was finally pleased with the end product and sent the creature away. Summoning an Arial Servant, Galvenor sent the message to Cougar.

Greetings Friend

I am glad to hear of both your acomplishments.

First I must tell you I am pleased with the progress you have made in your studies and the acomplishments you have made in both your White Flame and your new Attack. It seems to be very impressive.

Second but more importantly, I must congraduate you on your Engagement. I wish you both happiness in the years ahead.

He placed the ring on the table,"It's yours. Keep it. You don't have to wear it, it's kinda human thing". The emerald glittered in the light

He then left, kissing her on the cheek before he did so, leaving her to finish up the potion without distraction, and went back to the training room. There was an unmistakable lightness to his step and an aura of relief and joy,'She's actually going to marry me. I still can't believe it... but it's going to happen'.

As he came back into the room, he found it deserted, and he took the oppurtunity. This attack promised great power and damage, but he needed to learn to control it. Allowing the White Flame to erupt, he took up a stance with his legs shoulder width apart, his arms extended, his fingers forming the delta symbol. As he concentrated, the symbol began to flicker with raw energy, pure white. After a few seconds, he unleashed it. The flaming delta flew across the room, leaving searing afterimages on the air, before crashing into one of the targets.

One down. Needs more control though

" 'sohna," he said, the Drow coming from his mouth naturally. He took up the stance once more, and fired again. And again. And again. For nearly two hours he pushed himself, seeing the limit approaching him. When he felt ha had reached it, he sat down, and levitated over a drink of water. He sat with his back to the wall.

I'm getting married...
Rhenna, meanwhile, works on the potion. It is a long, dull process. The ring sits in front of her, out of the way...rule number one of brewing potions: Never wear jewelry. She'd put it on later...it sure was pretty, though.

You knew this was coming.
True...I just didn't know when.

Cougar got the message, and replied to Galvenor:

Many thanks for your congratualations. My magick is increasing day by day... as for the marriage, many thanks once again. You are officially invited, as a friend of us both. It would mean a lot, and give us time to regroup and discuss recent events.
Your friend,
James Cougar

He got up, and went back to his room, to relax. He needed something a little stronger than water.Whisky! he thought, and took a swig from the bottle in his knapsack. He lay on the bed, facing the ceiling...

The final hour began. The ingredients had filled the cauldron ((can't think of a better term, lol)) when she'd started...by the end, there would be only enough to inject each of them with a syringe. It would be a fairly large syringe, granted...but when you started off with two pints of blood, and about a quarter pound of other ingredients...it was amazing, how much of it evaporated off.

Cougar found himself looking more often at his watch as the final hour drew on. He couldn't believe how hyped up he was. Putting the whisky away, he took out his book and music player, sitting on his bed. Anyway to pass the time...

Finally.

D'anthe, go get Cougar, while I finish this up.

*The raven goes to Cougar's room and activates the door-opening spell. He then proceeds to perch on Cougar's foot.*

Cougar looked at him,"I take it from the fact you're here that it's ready? Alright, I'm coming.*slips his headphones out, and lays the book down*C'mon then, lead me to her, D'anthe"

Instead the bird perches on his head, chattering reprovingly at him.

OOC: He'd get the sense of "if you don't know where she is, you deserve to be lost."

"Get off my head,"said Cougar,"Alright, I'm going"

*Five minutes later*
"A little birdy told me you wanted me"

D'anthe stays put.

*Five minutes later, in response to Cougar's comment*
What bird? There aren't any birds here...*grins*

He grinned back,"Alright, so it's a mettalic raven... same difference. He has the odd habit of perching on my head, and refuses to leave. Kinda worrying really..."

Not really. Unlike a real bird, he won't poop on you, and he only attacks on my command, so you're fairly safe.

Anyway, let's get this over with, shall we?

I spose he couldn't do much harm*looks up* Anyway, as you so eloquently put it, lets get this done with

She takes his arm and slides the needle into a vein. She has a gentle enough touch that it wouldn't hurt (much) to him. When she finishes with him, she takes the other syringe and injects herself, after which she takes his hand and casts the spell to activate the potion's effects.

Cougar felt the needle enter his vein again,Twice in three hours. As the mixture entered his blood stream and she cast the spell, he felt something change deep within him. He couldn't quite place it, but something about him had altered... and it couldn't be reversed

Well, that's it. *Going back to the work bench, she cleans up, slipping the ring on as she finishes, and adjusting it slightly so that it fits perfectly.*

He smiled as he saw her slip the ring on,"You like it?"

It's beautiful.

A ring is a human custom, so don't worry if you don't wear it. Suits you though*smiles* I got a note from Galvenor earlier. He sends us congratulations from wherever he is at the moment.

Oh, it's good to hear from him.

"Yeah. I sent him one back, saying thanks and the like," he replied, taking another ring from his pocket, and slipped it on. Similar in design, it had a sapphire in place of the emerald. The light bounced off it, reflecting on the walls

Another part of the human tradition?

*Looks at her, and smiles*Yeah... you could say that. You don't have to wear yours, I've told you that. But, I'm keeping mine on. It's like... a confirmation of the bond. I know Drow customs are different, but I don't know any better. We'll get married your way though, I assure you of that

Don't like the human way?

*shudders* Human marriages... been to a few... gaudy is the best word I can think of for it. Frills and stuff like that all over the place. Watt's was pretty bad... white wedding, every human girls dream. *shudders again*Just not me

It sounds...blinding.

Doesn't start to describe it. I'd much prefer a plain wedding, without the frills... which is exactly how Drow weddings are, from what I read.

Pretty much.

From Warfare's spot in the Magitek research facility, Warfare pulls out a sheet of Coal Black paper. it feels soft as velvet. He pulls out a pen. It contains pure liquid Gold. Warfare rights the following:


Dearest Friends,

Congratulations on your engagement. I wish you two the greatest of luck in life's journey. In the old Vulcan tradition, Live long and Prosper.

Warfare.

Warfare casts a spell, and the Gold hardens and sets into the paper. casting another spell it lands in front of Cougar and Rhenna.

Cougar sat down,"I'll be honest, I was so nervous about asking you. You may have noticed"

I did notice. *Picking up the paper and looking over it.* "Thanks, Warfare."

Two congratulations and we haven't actually told anyone yet. Quite surreal.*smiles at her*I'm glad you said yes though

What was I supposed to say? One generally isn't willing to give part of their lifespan if they aren't willing to share the lifetime. And from Galvenor and Warfare...what do you expect?

He took her hands, and just sat there, looking at her,"Well, we've another 150 years to enjoy it... minimum"

Yes...although...a century and a half isn't terribly long.

Hey*puts his hand to her face*It's better than fifty years or less, isn't it? I'd do anything to live as long as you, because I love you."

She takes her hand in his, leaning her cheek into his touch.

"I know...but this...a mere century and a half...was the best I could do."

Another century and a half with you? It's worth it. It doesn't matter that we couldn't have more, but that is the way of things. Don't beat yourself up because the spell only has a limited effect, it's not your fault*hugs her close to him, stroking her hair*

I know. *She lets her head rest on his shoulder*

He stayed there, comfortable with her...finacee? James Cougar, with a fiancee? Stranger things have happenedHe continued stroking her hair, marvelling at it's softness in comparision to his own

She stays there, in his arms, comfortable.

He looked down at her,"*teasingly*You seem content down there"

I could think of worse places to be.

Can't we all... can't we all

Probably.

Cougar sat her down, and then sat down himself next to her,"Well, heres the real question... who else to tell? The whole of Rendelmar will know soon enough I assume"

If they don't already. You'll notice that D'anthe left soon after you got here. He'll communicate with all the other gliders...who will communicate to their riders.

Ah, the whispers. Always with the whispers. Could be worse I suppose, although I think I'm going to be confronted by at least one irate srudent befor the end of the day

Probably not. They'll probably think I'll let them off easier now.

Something tells me that is not going to be the case. I should tell the guys at home really, just the team. Wonder how'll they'll react to this one... remember on the way back from the Temple?

How could I not?

He smiled at the memory,"I foresee a difficult thing coming my way very soon. Oh well, it's worth it, for this"

You're not one to take the easy road, anyway.

He looked quizically at her,"What's that supposed to mean" He kissed the top of her head as he finished, waiting for his answer

You're a soldier...and you're marrying a Drow mage. You have no idea how much trouble you're in for over the next couple of centuries. *She smiles at him*

He shrugged,"Trouble? I'm sure I can live with it. The question is: trouble from who?*smiles back*

R -- *Entering* Bad question. Trouble comes from many people, and many places.

Cougar looked at him,"You have a habit of doing that, you know that?"

We all do. If it wasn't me, it would have been someone else.

*Shrugs*You're right. It's always someone. As for trouble, I can name one person straight off...

OOC: Guess who he means

That's odd...I can name several.

OOC: Is a quote "But people just call me Trouble, mostly?"

Hm, this one has a very big reputation for his ablity to incense trouble wherever he goes

OOC: yep

Rn -- Stop it. He's a good kid...and not really as accident prone as you might think.

I know he's a good kid, but you've gotta admit, he does get into trouble quite a bit. Not always his doing

Who else do I know that gets into trouble often? *Looks at Renor, then puts her chin in her hand.* I know the name will come eventually...*flicks her glance over at Cougar.*

*Rolls his eyes*I could see that one coming. Oh well, I bring it on myself most of the time, that much is true

R -- You were begging for that comment, Cougar. In any event, I have work to do...as, I imagine, do the two of you. *leaves*

I suppose he's right... not that I want to

I think he was talking about wedding plans...we don't have all the frills, but a Drow wedding still gets a fair amount of thought put into it. But it's true...there's always work to do around this place.

*Looks at his watch*If you haven't got classes or anything else we can get started on planning now

What time is it?

1300 hours

I have fifteen minutes.

*Thinks carefully*Is there any time that you have maybe an hour or so off? IT'd be easier to do then in fifteen minutes

Classes generally end at around four or four-thirty. From then on, I technically have the day off...

Stacks of paperwork to do? I know the feeling... only a little though. Gimme a shout when you want, like sending D'anthe to find me. I'll be around the place

There's always something to do... I'll either send D'anthe for you, or I'll be in the library.

Alright. I'll see you later*kisses her*

*Kisses him back* Sure, send me off five minutes before I have to go, why don't you?

Five minutes... in that case, stay a little longer

Not if you don't want me here...*Stands*

*grabs her arm*Of course I want you here, I didn't realise the time. C'mon, don't punish me for something I didn't mean

*Sits back down* I'd argue the point further if there were more time...but then I really would have to go.

Exactly. Why argue when we can have a few more minutes? *smiles*

Characteristic of my class. We argue...we nitpick...we can be generally annoying, at times.

I'll just have to get used to it won't I?

Pretty much. Just remember, though...you asked for it.

Yeah. I did ask, but you said yes. You're the one marrying a solider, a strange solider

That is true.

He laughed,"Yes. I am strange... I asked a Drow to marry me. That's pretty strange by human standards. Still, it was worth it*kisses her again*

*Kisses him back* May be odd...but you yourself admitted...you're an odd one. *Stands and kisses his cheek* And now I really do have to go.

"I'll see you later," he called as she left.Damn, I love that woman

Classes run Rhenna ragged (she handles the little ones, so when doesn't it is the better question...), and she actually meets up with Cougar wherever he is.

He was in the libary, reading quietly when she arrived,"You look knackered"

I was dealing with children from fifteen to eighty...my energy levels will pick back up in a bit. *Takes a seat*

That sounds so odd to me, children of eighty*moves closer*

They're almost adults, true. I just think of them as young.

That's you. Age differences once again

Yes, I know. So, what are you reading?

*Closes the book*ANything really. Mostly marriage customs, I need more information to build on what I know already

There are a few important factors in a Kaymirilian wedding. I cannot generalize and say Drow, becausein Classical Drow society, a female chooses a consort, and he has no choice in the matter.

But in the Kaymirilian wedding, the important factors are:
The setting. Place and time are extremely important, and should be chosen with care.
Who casts the Bonding spell.
Who else is there. Generally, the dozen or so closest people to each of the bride and groom, and the family of each, are invited.

Alright. First things first: setting. Where were you thinking?

There are any number of beautiful places in Kaymiril...or we could get married here, in Rendelmar...or somewhere on Snake Eater Prime. It should be a place of significance, in any event.

Look, I don't really mind when or where it is. I was thinking by the Cobrian waterfall myself, but thats just me. It's your choice mostly

The waterfall sounds like a good idea.

Alright, I'll write that down as a possiblity*scribes onto a sheet of parchment* Secondly, who to cast the bonding spell? I can't think of anyone in particular, this is your area after all

I was hoping for maybe Renor or Mith.

I can see that... you'll have to ask them, unless it has to be me who does it? Techinically, I don't have a choice in the matter*smiles*

I'll ask them.

Alright, that basically leaves us one other thing: who to invite? The other members of our group are a good start, so Warfare, Galvenor, etc

Them...and whoever you want...and likely, at least half of Rendelmar. Generally there are only two dozen...but there's really no limit on the number of people that can be there.

Hmmmm... I was thinking just the team. Other than that, I don't know anyone who would/could come

*She nods* How do you think they'll take the news? All of my students rushed me and it was hard to sort out one "Is it true?" from another "Are you really getting married to that human?"

I'll be honest. I don't know how they'll take it. A little better than your students, but not that good. Watt's already married... but this feels like the death of the team to me, and I'm sure they'll feel the same

I'm afraid I don't understand...it will be a change, yes...but how it could be taken as a death...

Human phrasing. It'll be harder to go on operations when some of use have other commitments. Not so much a death as a change in method. We'll get through it though, we've done some weirder things than one of us getting married

True enough.

Oh well*looks at list* Anyone you really want to invite?

I can see almost all of Rendelmar coming...all but the youngest children, and two of the adults, to look after them. They are my family, after all.

He thought carefully, then wrote one word on the parchement,'Rendelmar'. He handed her the parchment,"Check it if you please"

*Scans over it* Looks about right to me.

*Runs his hands down his face*Alright then. I've already tried home once, but something is wrong. Warp storms I think. I'll try again later

She nods.

*yawns*Sorry, its not this, I haven't slept in a while. My own fault*looks at watch*You busy at all?

Not really. I shoved today's paperwork on some other unfortunate soul who had too much free time on his hands. You wouldn't know him...not quite a student of mine, but pretty close. But you look like you need sleep more than you need socialization.

He laughed, coughing slightly in the middle,"Well, I would be inclinced to argue with you... but I know what happens if I get you angry. I was planning a trip to a room I saw Shan using, but I supposed I can postpone it"

Which room? There are several hundred, for various purposes.

I don't remember exactly... but it was telekinesis I saw him using

That doesn't help at all, James. You can use telekinesis anywhere inside this building. Where was it?

Hold on *thinks* It's just outside here actually *jumps up, and walks quickly* Yep, thats the one

Oh, this one. Yes...this room is a favorite...well, among some types. There are others who don't have the patience for it.

I was thinking of testing myself... later now. I've been ordered to get some sleep *He grins at her*

*She grins back* Ah...that's the good point about marrying a soldier. They already know how to take orders.

Hey, I've told you before, I don't always follow orders. But in this case... what choice do I have?

Not much.

Exactly. Angry Rhenna *shudders* not something I hope to see in marriage *kisses her*I should sleep then

*Kisses him back* Yes...and if you don't do anything to provoke my anger, you won't see it. *Smiles*