NationStates Jolt Archive

Costh approached the two women and asks "May I aid you in preparing the antidote to the pestilence?"

They look at him. The two women are identical in appearance, but not in mannerisms.

One of them nods and directs him to part of the table and tells him what he'll be doing (they have an assembly line thing going)

The other. "What's a human doing in Mithdelmar?"

I have no idea how you'd have survived that...unless false memories were put into your head.

No, it actually happened. It was on an operation, went tits-up. Got captured, tortured, and when I didn't talk, they executed me. Luckily, I looked up at the last minute, and it hit me in the forehead, going between the two hemispheres of my brain. I only survived thanks to the nanites... they left me for dead, and I got picked up a day later, half dead from lack of food and water in the searing heat. My body still bears the scars of that time...

OOC: Not false memories, but ur getting closer!

"I originally came here to see Mith but then travelled to the province of Lotha to aid in curing the plague." He replied as he moved into doing whatever he was assigned to do.

OOC: Any star trek episode or star wars book that holds a hint?

IC:
I'm not sure how that would work. Your nation's technology is an odd thing.

OOC: No, the basic idea comes from a PS2 game, if you must know

IC: Nanites are a strange technolgy. They help maintain the body, by monitoring all the basic systems, and stepping in where needed. In soliders, they also have the ablity to repair vital organs and maximise their functions. Mine are similar to that. I don't know... but I know that I ain't ever getting caught again!

"I originally came here to see Mith but then travelled to the province of Lotha to aid in curing the plague." He replied as he moved into doing whatever he was assigned to do.

*First woman* I'm Anna, this is my sister, Dora'. Soon as we finish this next set of a hundred, we're headed there, ourselves. We wouldn't be allowed anywhere near, but whenever anything breaks out, they send antidotes directly to the Valshanth and make sure we're inoculated, no matter how little the threat actually is.

OOC: No, the basic idea comes from a PS2 game, if you must know

IC: Nanites are a strange technolgy. They help maintain the body, by monitoring all the basic systems, and stepping in where needed. In soliders, they also have the ablity to repair vital organs and maximise their functions. Mine are similar to that. I don't know... but I know that I ain't ever getting caught again!
OOC: Okay...PS2's just a touch out of my scope.

IC:
*Shrugs. She's been a magick user since before she could really remember, and all this tech crap just sounded wrong.*
Who are any of us to speak for certain about the future?

"If you don't mind me asking what is the Valshanth and why would 'they' refuse to allow you to go where you could help?" He asked

OOC: Don't worry, all wil be revealed. It's all to do with manipulation...

IC: None of us can ever say for certain what the future holds. I prefer to think that we can exercise some form of control over our lives though.

D -- The Valshanth is where we live. "They" would be the Grey class mages.

OOC: Don't worry, all wil be revealed. It's all to do with manipulation...

IC: None of us can ever say for certain what the future holds. I prefer to think that we can exercise some form of control over our lives though.
The free will belief. I believe we have free will...but I also believe that somethings are predestined.

"A good choice, incorporates ideas of both of the theories. But none will ever know for sure," he said, shivering slightly,"Getting chilly up here. I'm heading inside. You coming?"

Nah. I'll stay up here a bit more.

OOC: The motto of the dragon is "Inertia"...the motto of the Drow is "Accomplish"...which is why Rhenna's realm is the library, lol.

"Why would the grey mages prevent you two specifically when they allow others who have been inoculated to travel to the disease site?"

"Have fun. See you later," he said, leaving her staring out at the city.

*****following Anna's speech********
"Very well, thank you your Highness. And you?"

A -- No, we've been inoculated, which is why we can go. We're also the best ones for the job, since our gliders were designed for speed above all else. Ah, good evening, Col. Cougar. You appear as though you've been well since Mirroden. I've been about as well as I can be, considering all the paperwork that comes through the Valshanth day in and out.

Grey Mage: Qu'essans, it is done.

D -- Thank you...

*Each of them activate a glider -- they're of two different makes and takes half of the load*

A -- Race you?

D -- You're on?

*They blast out of the room and through Mithdelmar, hurrying toward Lotha Province*

"Would you mind if I came with you, I enjoy talking to you and it would be beneficial for all those who could to aid the sick." Costh asked

OOC: Sorry, Theao...acted quickly.

IC:
Grey Mage -- The Princesses are merely doing a courier service. It boosts morale for the mages, and makes the people feel more assured in the Royal Line.

Cougar watched as Anna and her sister left the building. He stood for a moment, thinking. He doubted the Drow half would be awake yet, and even if she was, he doubted Mith would let him see her...

"Princesses, who knew, should we continue to create antidote or has enough been fabricated?" Costh asked

We need another two batches of a hundred potions each.

"Alright then." Costh begins to work to finish the potions.

Cougar moved through the halls of Mithdelmar, going no-where in particular. As he walked, his knees buckled underneath him. He grabbed the wall,What the hell is happening to me? he thought, as he pulled himself upright, leaning on the wall briefly.Whatever it is, it doesn't feel right.. He made his way out to the runabout, and began a check of himself with the internal sensors. Nothing abnormal. Strange

A young red class mage who happened to be in Mithdelmar (one of his castings had gone wrong...he's barely as old as Shan) saw Cougar almost collapse, and informed one of the medics. This medic knocks on the runabout.

***************************
The mages continue making the antidote, and there is little to no communication between them.

"Who is it?" called Cougar. His scans showed nothing out of the ordinary, but something was amiss somewhere. He left the runabout, looking at the medic in front of him,"Yes?"

A patient observed your near-collapse. Come with me.

*The medic turned and started leading him to a different part of the Temple*

Cougar followed the mage to a section of the Temple he had never been in. He knew better than to argue with a medic, let alone a mage. So he followed. His mind was elsewhere, more precisleyHow is she? Hope she's holding up

The mage sat him down in a chair, then lowered a machine to his forehead. This is extremely advanced medical technology -- only invented within the last decade. Activating it with the touch of a few buttons, the mage begins to use both conventional and diagnostic spells to determine any and all problems Cougar might be having with his physical and/or mental health.

*****************************
Rhenmet the Dragon went back in and sat outside the door where her drow half was. Jalron was in there, keeping an eye on her.

******************************
Mithdelmar...haven't been treated here since I was a child...
Thought Rhenna-Drow as she came to conciousness. I feel like tona'.

She opened her eyes.

J -- "Rhenmet?"

Rn -- Good morning. Not really.

Jalron, Mith's Chosen, began running diagnostic spells on her. "Well, other than the obvious lack of equilibrium, you look like you didn't take too much damage to the head."

Rn -- "Sure......"

After some time, Cougar looked at his medic,"You find anything?" He couldn't help but feel apprehensive. He had no idea what had caused it, maybe something in his nanites?

Costh having finished the part of the potion he had been tasked to do, asked the mages "Is there was anything I could do to help? Also is there a forge/workshop here?"

OOC: SE, check TGs

IC:
There is not a forge in this city...we're medics, not blacksmiths. And I cannot think of anything else for you to do.

"Alright then." Costh replied as he headed out, wandering he arrived at the place where Cougar was being examined, "Hi, what's wrong Cougar?"

OOC: Kay, check TG's

IC: He looked at Costh,"Good question. If only we knew the answer..."

"Do you mind if I stay here with you?" Costh asked "Your the only other human I've seen recently."

OOC: Theao, you don't go into ANY room in Mithdelmar's temple without being 100% certain that you can. It's a hospital.

IC:
I can't find anything...a few of the micromachines seem to be acting erratically, or not at all...but other than that, you seem to be in perfect health. Have you been on a proper diet and been getting enough sleep?

OOC: Had to say that, lol.

Cougar shrugged,"Go ahead. Trust me, you won't see another human. Been around these people 3 months, and I've not seen one except you. How did you get involved in all this?"

(to the mage),"Sleep has been a issue recently, but not much. Diet is ok, and nanomachines ceasing to function is normal. I'll be ok, I'm sure of that"

Then I can't see any reason to keep you here.

"I was involved in a training match with a god named Warfare, he flipped out in response to an attack, Mith saved me so I came to see if she knew why the god reacted in such a way, I then came with Mith to see about the plague. What's your story?" Costh asked

Thanks," he said, getting up. He looked at Costh,"I'm heading back to my ship, need something to eat. Care to join me?"

As they walked, he said,"Hmmmm, Warfare going nuts.... thats a new one on me. Normally, he's quite calm. As for my story, I came to the White Tower, met Renor, he trained me, and I was assimilated into the group. We've been through alot, fighting all manner of things."

"Sure, I havn't had anything to eat recently."

***Rendelmar, three hours previously***

Renor was looking through the spells he'd found in Tellryon's lair, and he found the one he was sure had been used to separate Rhenna's halves. Analysing spell components, he began formulating an anti-spell, which, if it worked, should bind her two halves together.

***Mithdelmar, now***
Renor walks through the halls of Mithdelmar, scroll in hand.

OOC: was assimilated into the group Resistance is FUTILE!

As they entered the runabout, Cougar looked at his companion,"Tell me, what do you want? I can do almost anything here. Lasagne" he said to the replicator, as it whirred and created his food,"So, what form of magick do you study?"

OOC: Humans have prved the Borg wrong on many occasions my friend, but still, its a great quote

"Could you ship produce pepperoni pizza? The magick I practice is rune magick, thats what these runic tattos on my body are for. You said Renor trained you? I talked to him in the caves and he told me that his magick was don't ask, don't tell, don'cha know type magick." Costh replied

Mith joins Renor, and he explains to her, briefly, what he'd found. She looks over it, and agrees. They go to where the Rhennas are, and find that the Drow half has awoken, with fewer ill effects than anticipated. Mith checks both of them over, and starts casting the spell. Reality ripples and twists around them, and they merge. It's a bit of an overload for her, seeing both perspectives of the battle, and adding the Dragon's memories to the Drow's, and she passes back out.

OOC: I wasn't saying it in a borg way. What, did he not want to be assimilated? *pic of Rhenna*

"Could you ship produce pepperoni pizza? The magick I practice is rune magick, thats what these runic tattos on my body are for. You said Renor trained you? I talked to him in the caves and he told me that his magick was don't ask, don't tell, don'cha know type magick." Costh replied

"Pizza? Of course it can," he said, handing the plate to Costh,"Runic magicks? Never seen that before. Heard of it though. As for Renor, he did train me, but I now learn to my own degree. He's still my Master though. And his magicks, and Vedt's and Rhenmet's for that matter, are ones that you don't interfere with. I don't know half of their magick, and I never will. I am different, but an honouray member. Takes special something to become that," he said, sitting down opposite, pulling his chair towards him with the White Flame, letting it flare briefly, before bringing it under control.


OOC: Kay, now that you put it that way.... lol

Ooc: ^_^

OOC: *Rolls eyes*... I have an idea, I'll TG it to you

OOC: Okay.

"That's an intresting fire. Rune magicks use runes, glyphs, and symbols to cast spells. The thing is my rune magicks are somewhat differnt than the rune magicks that are taught at the White Tower, they draw the runes while I have the runes on my skin. Oh and what's that weapon, it looks like the weapon Warfare had."

"This?" said Cougar, drawing the Gunblade,"Similar to Warfares, but with some differences. Blade and design are differnt, black pearl hilt, and a semi-automatic pistol as opposed to a revolver. Nice stuff, forged by the gods. As for my ablity, what you just saw was one ablity, I have two. I would show you the other, but don;t think its a good idea right now"

Renor begins heading back to Rendelmar.

"What is the other ability if you don't mind me asking?"

It's called the Fieros. It's a Divine Magick, meaning normally only God's can wield it. But, myself and one other have the honour of being the only mortals in existence to bear it

"Impressive. What do you know of Warfare, I'm still trying to figure out why he tried to kill me."

I've never known warfare to hurt somebody who didn't deserve it. He was split in a number of different directions at the time, maybe that could explain it

"Possibly, the only reason I'm still alive is because Mith interfered. Even if I could have countered the attack, slim to none, I was so disorineted because of the dimensional shift that I was a sitting duck. Do you know anything about an attack called Ultima?"

Ultima? Yeah, I know this: Lethal. It nearly killed Renor once, and again it's a divine magick as a general rule. Don't attempt it, it'll destroy you.*looks at sensors* Hmmm, thats odd. Renor just left... I could have sworn he was in Rendelmar... maybe??? You'll have to excuse me Costh, I have something to do. We'll continue this conversation at a later time," he said, standing and walking from the runabout. His heart pounded with anticipation. He went to find Mith, and it didn't take him long,"Mith!"

OOC: Theres your cue

Mith's checking over the reports from some patient or another. "Yes?"


OOC: Anti-climactic, I know...but she's a 700 year old professional medic. And Ultima was created by an Elf.

OOC: Mayb, but I said as a general rule it is

IC: "I just saw Renor leaving, and I was wondering..." he trailed off. No words were required

There's only one Rhenna again...but you can't speak with her. You can talk to her...but I'm fairly sure she won't be able to hear you.

"Still out cold?" he said, before kicking himself,Duh!."That's fine, but it's up to you fairly obviously"

Mith guestures to one of her assistants, who leads Cougar to the room they have Rhenna in.

"She's in there." The medic leaves.

Cougar looked into the room, and saw Rhenna laying in the bed. He drew up a chair. It was the Rhenna he remembered... out cold again. He smiled, this seemed to becoming a regular feature.He took her hand, which was warm and soft, and held it,"I know you can't respond, or if you can hear me, but if you can, I'm not going anywhere... at least not until Mith forces me to!" He spoke to her softly, his voice barely above a whisper. This carried on into the depths of the night...

If anyone looked in, they would see Cougar, slumped across the foot of the bed, his hand still grasping hers, refusing to leave her...


OOC: HHHHHHEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLOOOOOOOOOOO?

The acid burns are lessened, as well as other injuries. The only thing that has her out is that her neural pathways have to readjust themselves after having been literally in two places at once.

A hand, touching hers...she looked up. "Master?" Her master looked down at her...she was maybe twenty...she'd injured herself fairly badly in a sparring match, and he'd brought her here, to Mithdelmar. One of the medics had patched her up, and she'd reawoken in her own bed.

This hand isn't my master's....I know this hand....

A figure appears, back turned, running ((remember this?)), his blond hair flying back. Other scenes...Mirroden, Riptide, Rendelmar, the top of this Temple...a kiss on the third floor of a building on Snake Eater Prime...

Rhenna's eyes open, and she sees him. Removing her hand from his, she begins to stroke his hair.

Cougar stirred in his sleep at her touch, his Calipsian Node telling him to react. His eyes snapped open, and he tensed. When he saw who it was, he relaxed, and a wide grin spread across his face,"Hi there. Remember me?"

She smiles back.

"I think so." *teasingly* "You're the student Renor makes tend the olvan, aren't you?"

"Nope... I think your memories been scrambled my dear Rhenna," he said, not rising to the teasing,"CAre for another go?"

Not really, James...my head hurts.

He sat up, still looking at her,"How do I say I'm not surprised? You were two different people for a time, and Mith and Renor got you sorted again. It's not surprising your head hurts!"

I remember. While I was out, I was also talking to you. And trying to remember the battle...just forget it. I cast two spells at once....it's the oddest feeling.

I bet it is. Another set of memories that half of you doesn't remember... I can't imagine how odd that is. Anyhow, you're back to normal...ish now. At least you're that. You had me worried for quite some time

I know...you looked it. *Pushes herself into a sitting position* What time is it?

He checked his watch,"About 0015 local. Midnight basically."

That long...other than worried, how have you been?

Lemme see... 18 hour sleep, on suggestion of yourself *he smiles*#, couple of strange incidents, aka me nearly collapsing for no readily apparent reason, tea with Costh, the new guy, and now this

Collapsing? *a look crosses her face* Yeah, you did, just about. Did you find what that was all about?

OOC: Is "tea" the term the British use for "dinner?" b/c that's been bugging me. I thought tea was like this afternoon snack type deal.

OOC: Yeh, ppl have a very quaint idea of us, highly sterotypical, lol

IC: No. It nearly happened again, worse the second time. I got some tests done. Other than the normal wear and tear, I'm fine. I don't understand it. Neither does anyone else. It might just be long-lasting fatigue or slight malnourishment. I've felt better since I ate

She nods. "If it gets worse, have Mith run a thorough check on you. Or maybe your own people would better understand what's wrong...Mith has been working with Drow for seven hundred years or thereabouts...but her knowledge of human physiology is limited."

I checked everything, especially my nanites. Nothing. But I'll keep an eye on it... Anyway, you want something to eat or something? You must be famished

One of the medics will determine what I can and cannot eat in the morning.

Fair enough...

OOC: OK, I really got nothing. I'll wait on you

*She reaches out and takes his hand*

What happened to you, on the path you took?

Me and Vedt got the Path of Worth... I had some home truths shoved down my throat... things which I'd thought about but never really considered seriously... not a nice expierence

The Path of Treasure probably would have been easier for you...even Renor would have had trouble with the Path of Worth. Don't listen to it...it was trying to distract you.

I know...but it's hard to ignore. Some of the things said were so true, so pertinant, that I just couldn't help it. It also gave me food for thought,You are a mere human... you will never be her equal.Vedt helped me through that one. What about you? What happened on your path?

I heard many things...some threatening, some welcoming...different messages were aimed at my Dragon and Drow halves. For a moment, the Dragon was tempted to kill the Drow, and find out what she could truly do...but we both knew that Tellryon had to be stopped. And just because you'll never equal me in magick, doesn't mean you'll never be better than me in a different area. I doubt I could hold my own against you in a sword fight. Especially at the moment.

EDIT OOC: My mom's sick, so I have to clean up after her a bit. I'll be right back.

Do you know everything that was said to me?

OOC: Don't worry about it

No, I don't. Like I said...I'm not a telepath. The Dragon was able to see what you were thinking of when she tried to...but I can't.

That's ok then. It's all in the past now... it's not going to bother me again. I'm proud of you, we all are, you know that?

*Smiles* You said that.

I know I did, but I'm saying it again. You deserve to know. What you did defies belief of many people.

I barely did it...and I was lucky Mith was on hand. *Her grip on his hand tightens slightly* I'm glad you came back safe...I was worried that somehow the dragon you faced would have been able to kill you.

"As I told the dragon, it didn't matter if I lived or died, so long as I did so doing what was right, defending what I believed in. And so long as you knew how I felt, that would carry me through. For what it's worth, if Vedt hadn't have been there, I proberly wouldn't be here right now. I wouldn't have ever seen you again," he said, bringing his hand up to her face,"That is what kept me going"

*She brings her hand up to his*

I'm just glad it's over.

"Yeah. It's over. Hopefully, we could get some rest now. You especially!" He kept his hand were it was, rubbing his thumb across her skin. He couldn't help smiling, and found her so enticing. He just sat, with her.

She closes her eyes and relaxes into his touch, but reopens her eyes and grins impishly at his words. "I'm not the one who wakes up at random hours of the morning" she teases, reaching over to poke him in the stomach.

"So I'm on the verge of insomnia, big deal. I get the sleep I need. At least I don't have to teach people such as Shan... irritating little sod that he is!" He laughed at her poking him, and poked her in the arm"Two can play that game!"

OOC; 'Don't have to teach'... famous last words

OOC: Cougar'll definitely be spending more time sparring with Shan.

IC:
*continues poking him* Shan's a good kid.

*From the doorway*
M -- So, you're finally awake.

"Yeah, you claim that! Him and that bloody ball!" grinned Cougar, poking her in return,"Good Morning... yes, it is morning...Mith"

Mith moves over to check Rhenna's vitals. "Good morning, Cougar."

Rn -- *to C* That actually started off as a hand/eye coordination exercise. Now he only does it to release tension.

OOC: translate as "nervous habit"

I know the feeling. Kinda like itchy trigger fingers, even though you can't. So irritating, especially if you've been there for 6 hours waiting for the shot

Mith makes a few notes on the parchment by the door, then leaves.

Rn -- Something like that. *after Mith's gone* And you think my sleeping patterns are odd.

She's a doctor, they are weird! But a bloody good one. You only sleep every so often - 30 minutes every 3 days - insane!

That's all I need. There's so much work to be done, that's all I take. I can sleep more, but I choose not to.

EDIT OOC: brb

"90 hours nonstop was my limit - true, I did collapse into a coma at the end of it, but there you go. No lasting effects," he said, still holding her hand in his

OOC: Alrighty

Pushing myself, I might be able to go five days...but I really need the half hour every three days. I might not need sleep for the next two weeks, though, seeing that I've gotten quite a bit in the last few days.

"Lucky you. I'll have to sleep in about 36 hours, after my 18 hour nap," laughed Cougar,"18 hours. A man who is almost a chronic insomniac sleeping for almost a whole day!"

You were tired. There's no way around it, when you're that exhausted. *she smiles at him*

I know that. I just like pushing myself.*smiles back at her*

One day, you're going to push yourself too hard...and when you wake up here, feeling bad, I'm going to tell you "I told you so."

Most likely... be something to laugh about though!" he said, rubbing his temples. A dull throbbing had begun, and it was irritating him. He stopped it, and put his hand back on Rhenna's

Are you all right?

"It's nothing, just a slight headache. Dehydration proberly. It won't kill me... not at this level anyway." He looked at his watch, it read 0145. "Jesus, time flys when you're having fun," he said, showing Rhenna the clockface

*Blinking* It can't have been that long. *There's a pitcher of water at the door. She starts levitating it and a cup near it. It dips drastically about halfway there, but makes it, and she pours a glass and hands it to him* It's not going to take effect immediately...but it's better than nothing. *She sets the pitcher down on the table by the bed.*

He smiled at her, ready to grab the pitcher if it went wrong. He took the cup, and sipped at it. Best way to get water into the system, he knew. He placed the cup on the floor, and looked at her,"Can I ask you something?"

She nods.

OOC: Aside from the question you just asked, yes, you may ask her something. :-P brb. Ten min, tops.

OOC: haha, very funny!

IC: "You remember on Riptide? When we took that improptu vacation? Remember what I said? Do you think I was too rash in saying that?"

OOC: Where he told her he loves her

OOC: I remember.

IC:
I remember, and I thought it was rash at the time, but you've proven it. Sincerity cancels out rashness.

Thats good. I'd hate to have that hanging over me for ages*smiles*

OOC: Well... doesn't she have something to say?

Why do you ask?

I've been doing a lot of thinking since the Path of Worth, despite what everybody told me. I've almost lost you so many times. I just want to let you know that I love you, and I'm not going to let anything come between us. I'm sorry if that makes you uncomfortable, I'll go if you want*rises, as if he already knows the answer*

Stay. I've never told you to go before, have I?

He sat back down,"No, you haven't. But saying stuff like that makes alot of people uncomfortable. I remeber when Watt did it to his first wife... nervous tension all round that night" He smiled though, taking her hand once again

The truth makes many people uncomfortable...but you have to remember where I'm from. We don't look a fact in the face and deny it.

OOC: :D

OOC: Im trying to decipher that

IC: Theres something my best friend said to me once,We're not tools of the Governement, or anyone else. Fighting was the only thing... the only thing I was good at, but... at least I always fought for what I believed in. I didn't know how to take it at the time, but hearing what you just said made it all clear

OOC: Black Class Mages look at a fact, analyse it, and roll with it. They don't deny it.

IC:
I'm glad I could help.

OOC: I read your combat with Theao on the forum :P

OOC: That doesnt answer the question in his head. I think you can guess that one. And the combat = good. I took Warfares tactic to a different level

IC: "I'm glad you could help," he said, leaning in to kiss her.

OOC: Then he'll have to ask the question in his head, because she's not a mind reader.

IC:
She smiles and kisses him back.

OOC: Its not the sort of question that you can ask a person. They need to tell them the answer of their own free will

IC: Remember the first time that happened? Snake Eater Prime, late guard duty. One of my best memories to date

OOC: Ah. That question.

IC:
*smiles* Definitely not a bad memory.

OOC: Yes, that question

IC: That entire campaign... it changed things so much. Me, you, the whole of Snake Eater Prime, S'gart; everyone involved was affected. But, at least we still have each other*runs his finger down her nose, resting on the end*

Unless something unexpected occurs, I'll be around for a long time. You can't get rid of me so easily, James Cougar.

Who said I wanted to get rid of you?*mock agression* Why I should...*laughs* Thats the last thing I want

She smiles at him. "It's so funny...I didn't like you at all when we met. Given the circumstances, I didn't like anyone...but now look at us."

Thanks. I feel really loved*winks*. Though if I'm honest, you pissed me off immensely when we first met*shields himself* but as you said... now look at us

You are really loved. Regardless of the first experiences we had.

OOC: Hah, how's that for answering a question.

He tried to suppress, but his face creased again, into a wide smile,"Thanks. That means alot to me y'know"

She smiles at him. "I thought maybe it would."

"I don't know what I did to deserve this, but I don't care," he said, as he kissed her again, long and sweet...

She kisses him back, enjoying the moment.

As he broke the kiss, after a few quiet moments, he felt a sudden stab of pain. His stomach burned with pain quickly, and then it subsided. He was finding it hard to breath, and he oculdn't see Rhenna anymore. All he saw was a mass of cables and pipes, in a translucent blue fluid. He was in a tube of some sort, and could see shadowy figures outside it...

In the real world, he had collapsed, unable to hear anything. He writhed, as if in agony...

Cougar! *Louder* Medic!

*Jalron, who had been wandering the halls, rushes in. He levitates Cougar onto an emergency cot that he conjures, and runs a diagnostic on him*

IC: As the diagnostic ran, James calmed down. He stopped writhing, and instead his eyes snapped open. He was panting heavily, and was drenched in a cold sweat. He looked at Rhenna, seeing the fear in her eyes, and felt that same fear reciprocated in him

J -- How many times has this happened?

Thats the first time its been that severe. I've had minute flashbacks to other things before, but nothing like that. I can't place the images I saw... I don't even remember them at all.

*looks at Rhenna* Sorry for spoiling the moment*blows a kiss her way*

At about the time that Cougar suffered his attack, Costh, who had been wandering the Center, decided to head to the last place he had sensed Cougar.

Thats the first time its been that severe. I've had minute flashbacks to other things before, but nothing like that. I can't place the images I saw... I don't even remember them at all.

*looks at Rhenna* Sorry for spoiling the moment*blows a kiss her way*
J -- *calls for a device from a passing medic, and attaches the band he gets to Cougar's arm* If this happens again, we will know, and be able to react.

Rn -- *worried* Are you okay? It wasn't nearly that bad the first time.

I'm ok now. Whatever it is, it's getting more severe each time. I'm scared Rhenna, I'm really scared," he slipped off the emergency cot, and went back to his seat, taking her hand as he sat down and squeezing it tightly


*to J*Jalron, is it alright if I stay here? Makes it easier for you guys to react

Rhenna grips his hand in return, and Jalron nods. "Someone's always awake if you need anything."

James ran his hand through his hair, pulling Rhenna close for an embrace at the same time. He was still shaking from what he had seen... and yet he still could not recognise what he had seen

She returns his embrace, trying to soothe him a little. "What did you see?"

I was in some sort of tube... blue liquid. Cables, pipes, a mask. I couldn't see out of the tube, but I know something was out there. The thing is, I don't have any recollection of this... I'm sorry for scaring you

Costh seeing the commotion went up to the people and asked with great compassion and a bit of worry "What's wrong, what happened?"

*Rhenna just clings to him* "How long will this continue?"

"I don't know. The visions have stopped, its just the afterimage now. But, thats the third in one day. I hope they aren't as frequent as that normally." He looked at her,"Sorry Rhenna, I didn't mean to scare you."

*To Costh* I don't know how to explain it. Mith and Jalron couldn't find anything wrong with him, though.

*To Cougar* You worried me the first time...what if it keeps getting worse?

OOC: Happy 1500 post day!

"Would you mind if I stay with you?" Costh asks with concern and sympathy in his voice

OOC: Y thank you Kay

IC*To Rhenna* I don't know. I'll deal with it as it comes. I'll be ok, don't worry about me*squeezes her hand tighter, and looks her in the eye*

*To Costh* Sure, you can stay. It's good to have another mind to pick," he said, motioning to a chair. As he did so, he pushed a thought Rhenna's way, SOrry about this. I feel sorry for him. He's lost, alone, has nothing familiar. It's like me when I first came

Mithdelmar was not designed for human comfort. Maybe that explains why we don't get terribly many visitors...to be honest...I'm still surprised that Renor took you under his wing.

You are really loved. Regardless of the first experiences we had.

OOC: Hah, how's that for answering a question.

OOC: Pretty darn good I'd say

IC: He smiled,Aren't we all?

She smiles back at him. I doubt he is.

He? Is this Renor or Costh we're talking about? I'm confused now!

Renor. He always seems to have a reason for everything.

You know as well as I do, Renor has his own reasons. No-ones ever going to know fully, but I'm glad he did anyway. Otherwise, I wouldn't be here right now, with you

And that would be a pity. You know what...something just occured to me.

He looked at her quizzically,"What is it?"

The only way into or out of the place you were in is teleportation or a portal. How did you get here from there? And by "here" I mean Lotha.

He paused, his mind flying..."Shan. He and I left the other place to come and find you. They were all running around, and we took the intiative, why do you ask?"

Shan won't learn to teleport for another four years. If you teleport wrong, all sorts of bad things could happen...and he won't learn how to teleport someone/something else, too, for another ten years.

I never said we teleported. Somehow, I don't know how, we got out by glider. Scary shit, I can tell you that much

You can't get out by glider. Believe me, I know.

OOC: Half an hour ago. *Shan closes his eyes, and his face scrunches in concentration, and suddenly they are outside, and the glider begins to move.* to refresh your memory.

OOC: KK, thanks

IC: Then I don't have a clue, really. I don't remember doing anything. I do know that we got out, but I don't know how

OOC: Link to edited post, http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=8323018#post8323018

She looks to the side, thoughtfully.

"I will have to ask Shan, then, at the first opportunity..."

A look of worry crossed Cougar's face,"Do you know what happened to Shan"

OOC: I got ur TG, but Cougar doesnt know

*Nods* He wants so badly to be grown up enough to come help...and we always leave him behind, along with the rest of the students in his age group, because we don't want them to get hurt. I guess he just couldn't take it anymore.

I just hope he's ok. Despite what I say, I can't help but liking him. He's got something about him that you can't ignore... although he can be immensley irritating

I think he's a lot like you. He's got that determination that won't let him give up, no matter what...yet sometimes he can push it.

"Sounds like me... like when we met at the White Tower, its a good example of my determination to get one thing done, but pushing it too far. Still, look what came out of that," he said, smiling once again. He just couldn't help himself

James...I've never been to the White Tower. We met in Derscon, after which we went to Mithdelmar, after which we went to Mirroden, then we went with Renor to research your abilities on the Black Flame, then we went back to Mithdelmar so we could go to your world, then we went back to Kaymiril, and then we were in Lotha province, and now we're here.

"My memories foggy to say the least,"Cougar sat in silence for a moment, thinking about his attacks. They had something in common, but he couldn't figure out what it was,"These attacks of mine, what do you think could be causing them"

*Shakes her head* I don't know...a paranoia, a repressed memory that's finally surfacing, an experience...outside manipulation, anything, really.

"The more I think about it, the more worried I get," he said, looking her in the eyes,"I'm sure it will sort itself out, in the end"

She reaches up to touch his cheek, traces of worry making themselves evident in her eyes. "I hope so."

He took her hand in his once more,"Trust me. I'll get through this... we'll get through this"

We've gotten through everything else. And it's not everyone who could go through what we've been through. *She allows herself to smile, briefly*

"It's going to take more than some half-assed visions of things that I can't remember to beat me. And I've got you to fight for now, thats all the ecouragement I ask for," he said, smiling back at her

If that's all you need to fight for, I'm not going to die for a couple hundred years.

I'll be shuffling off this mortal coil long before that. But, I intend to enjoy the time I have left... with you

Only a few decades...And yet...I wonder....*thoughtful*

You wonder.... what exactly?

Something I remember seeing briefly about a hundred years ago...I'll have to check it out when we get back home.

That could be some time, I don't think Mith is going to let you up and about for a while, so it looks like we're stuck here. I'm not going anywhere... where would I go if I wanted to

Back home. I'm sure Renor could put you to work. However...it'll be nice, to not have to sit around and look at the cieling all day long.

You're forgetting one tiny detail...*his voice drops to a whisper, and he leans in close* I don't know where Rendelmar is, remember?*his voice comes abck to normal*. As for looking up at the ceiling, it seems to be becoming a regular feature of your life

No...I was looking up at the sky in Snake Eaters. Oh...that's right...

Sky... ceiling... minor differences*laughs*

Actually...you were there both times when I woke up. You were asleep this time...*grins* Guess you felt it safer than being banged on the head again.

Yeah, its safer. I've still got a bruise, look*Draws back his hair to show her the bruising* And you say I've got a hard head!

You do. I'd still have a bruise if Mith hadn't taken care of that before I came to.

Thick skull, thick willed. I have no idea where that came from, but it sounds good. It doesn't hurt... just throbs occasionally. It'll be alright in a few days. As for me being here, it's because I care...

And I love you, but thats beside the point. Fairly obvious when you think about it

She smiles at him. "If it doesn't hurt, don't complain about it."

"I'm not... you and your thick skull!"

*Lets a few sparks come out of her fingertips* Hey...that's not nice. If you want it to hurt, I can make it hurt.

*cowers in mock fear* you know I was only joking. No pain, pretty please*laughs*

OOC: Just to be evil...

IC:
Rhenna touches his arm...turns out the spell she'd threatened him with wasn't a pain spell...a tickling sensation ran up the length of his arm.

*A shadow appears at the door*

V -- Costh, I told Ishrem about what you needed with the dragon parts, and he'll be willing to help you. Return to the Tower.

OOC: Go back to the White Tower...I don't see that there's much for you to do here.

Cougar stared at his arm,"Ok, that is officially the weirdest thing I have ever felt"

I've felt weirder. *wrinkles her nose at the memory*

"Alright." Costh replied as he stood up "Goodby, till we meet again, Cougar, Rhenna, I hope you both feel better soon." As he finished he teleported out.

ooc:will be posting in White Tower shortly

Rhenna nods. "Be well, Costh."

Cougar called,"Look after yourself. See you around!" all the time holding in his laughter at the look on Rhenna's face

OOC: What memory is it?

I'm glad Vedt came for him...he seemed kind of awkward, with all our talk of past events. And current ones.

OOC: a test. I doubt I'll put Cougar through it.

Cougar looked around him, making sure that they were alone,"What do you think? He seems very naive, yet his power is incredible. Warfare lost it with him, nearly killed him too"

He does seem to know very little...but I've never watched him cast, to know his power. It doesn't sound like Warfare that you're describing.

See, that's what I thought. Warfare doesn't lose it with mortals. Theres something odd. Oh well, he'll learn, somehow. I'm surprised Renor let him come with us this time

I think he came with Mith. And if Mith brought him, no matter what Renor thought, he would not argue.

Good choice. I wouldn't want to even argue with Mith, she scares the shit out of me

She is the most powerful mage we have. You've watched her heal...but you've also seen what happened to those demons back when we first got to Snake Eater Prime.

Exactly. When anyone wields that kind of power, you get scared of them. I do owe her my life though, after the temple collapsed on me

I personally see no reason to fear her...she is a healer. I just wouldn't cross her.

He got out of the chair, and sat on the edge of the bed,"I hope you get better so you can walk around"

I'll be able to walk around in a day or so. I could get up right now...but the only time you bring out Mith's scary side is when you try that after severe injuries. *She lays her head on his shoulder* Besides...I could think of worse places to be.

He put his arm around her shoulders,"So can I. And let's keep Mith in a good mood"

*she smiles at him*

He kissed her again, praying that it didn't end like the last one...

*Her eyes drift shut as he kisses her, and she runs her fingers through his hair*

OOC: Kool

IC: He felt her hands run through his hair, and responded in kind, his hand running down the curvature of her spine

*she winces in pain, and pulls back. She remains silent for a few moments, gripping his arm.* Sorry...I guess I'm not quite as well as I thought.

His eyes filled with worry,"I'm the one who should be sorry. Don't worry about it, you need your rest. Injuries like that take a while to heal, even with magick" As he spoke, he gave a small shot of White Flame, enough to quell the pain

*She gives him a weak smile, rests her head on his shoulder, and closes her eyes, just resting there*

He looked down at her,Fucking idoit. How'd you forget that?. He smiled, looking up at the ceiling, and started silently giving thanks to Leviathan.

Rhenna starts to drift off to sleep when a medic re-enters. She looks confused as to why a visitor would be there at three in the morning, but seeing the band on his arm, guessed he had either Mith's or Jalron's permission, so didn't make a comment. She instead went to Rhenna and started checking her vitals. She shook Rhenna gently.

Rn -- Vel'bol?

GM -- Usstan ssrig'luin ulu inbau fol d' dosst vlos, lu' kyorl ka dos ssrig'luin jalbol whol l' jiv'undus.

Rn -- Dorn tlu jal ditronw.

The medic took the sample of blood that she came to get, and leaves. Rhenna closes her eyes again.

Cougar noticed she was going to sleep, so he laid her back on the bed, being very careful as he did so. He stood, straightening his top, and kissed her on the forehead,"Sleep well my love"

He left the room quietly, his boots making no noise on the floor. He decided he needed something to eat, and was heading for the runabout...

*Rhenna drifts off to sleep*

****************************
The Pestilence removed, Mith brought the Slivers back and sent them through to Riptide. Her day almost ending, she took Vrin to her room and gave the sliver the amount of meat it required, then began walking the halls for one final check on her patients.

"Cougar...tell me, how's she doing?"

"She's alright. Tired, but otherwise fine. I just left her, she needed the rest."

Mith nods. "Shouldn't you be sleeping, as well?"

"Soon. I need something to eat first. I'm heading back to my ship, I'll be there until later, so you know where I am" he said,"Gd'night Mith" He left the temple, a skip in his step, and entered the runabout. After having something to eat, he settled down with a book, and started to read.

After a while, he found his eyes drooping, and he flakked out then and there.He was back in the tube. He still couldn't see outside, but as he looked at himself, and yelled, bubbles forming. He was connected up to any number of devices, and he didn't know what was happening to him...

He awoke with a start... 5 hours. He'd been asleep five hours. He lent back in the chair, and put his hands behind his head

When he goes back to Rhenna in the morning ((I'm going to assume that's what he does...correct me if I'm wrong)), Renor is already there.

James walked into the complex again, his haggard face showing he hadn't slept well. He decided to see how Rhenna was doing. Hw went back to the room, and as he entered, saw Renor,"Hi there!" he said, surprise evident in his voice

R -- Good morning. However, I will venture a guess that it is not morning, as far as you are concerned.

Rn -- *shaking her head* Do you never sleep?

OOC: check TGs.

"Depends what you refer to as morning. It feels morningish to me, so thats what I'm calling it. As for whether I sleep or not, when your dreams include those visions, you don't sleep well"

OOC: Ur choice

Renor looks at Rhenna, who looks back at him. A silence weighs heavily in the room for a moment, then Renor nods.

"I see. And there is no apparent cause?"

"You told him about the incident eh? Well no, there is no apparent cause. Everything tells me I'm fine, but I don't know."

R -- Keep it up and Mith might have to do a thorough analysis of you...I've had that happen before...trust me, there are more pleasant things in life. Rhenna, Mith has informed me that I can take you back to Rendelmar at sunset.

Rn -- That's a good thing. How's Shan doing, by the way?

R -- About as well as can be expected.

Rn -- I see...

Cougar shuddered at the thought of a thorough examination,"In that case, I hope it doesn't happen again"

A team of three upper-level medics enter the room.

M1 -- We have to ask you both to leave...there are some spells that must yet be cast before we can release her. This will take almost all day.

Renor nods and exits. "Come, Cougar."

Cougar followed Renor from the room, unsure of where they were going...

A portal opens in the path, and Renor steps in. It remains open.

OOC: Looks like I'm heading back to the other place then

IC: Cougar didn't hesitate, he merely stepped through the portal

OOC: Yep, to Rendelmar we go.