SavagePreGarathiel

[12:52] <SotDX> Ok...
[12:52] <SotDX> What I'm thinking for this is a little different than the others
[12:52] <SotDX> In some ways, we are going to do the same thing I have for Tony and Malinda
[12:52] <SotDX> but you already have a strong concept,
[12:52] <SotDX> based on your wonderful writing
[12:53] <SotDX> and our initial talks about Garathiel
[12:53] <SotDX> I want to focus on some key elements and moments
[12:53] <SotDX> and kind of see how things develop
[12:53] <SotDX> I have one definite thing in mind that I want to work towards
[12:53] <SotDX> Work on the history of the character a little through interactive story
[12:53] <SotDX> moving up to a dramatic moment
[12:54] <SotDX> that will closely predate the beginning of the actual game
[12:54] <Garathiel> OK.
[12:54] <SotDX> Any questions before we jump in?
[12:55] <Garathiel> Nope.
[12:55] * SotDX dims the lights and settles in for a good story told between two
[12:55] <SotDX>

[12:55] <SotDX> Do you remember the words?
[12:55] <SotDX> You told them to her.
[12:55] <SotDX> You said them clearly.
[12:55] <SotDX> Don't
[12:55] <SotDX> Get
[12:56] <SotDX> Involved.
[12:56] <SotDX> Was it so hard to understand?
[12:56] <SotDX> Did she not understand?
[12:56] <SotDX> Perhaps...
[12:56] <SotDX> Perhaps she understood all too well.
[12:56] <SotDX> Flying in the night sky
[12:56] <SotDX> you remember first meeting her
[12:56] <SotDX> You remember how young she was
[12:56] <SotDX> You remember how young you had been
[12:57] <SotDX> In your mind's eye
[12:57] <SotDX> you remember the chamber around you
[12:57] <SotDX> the other new Engel stretching their arms
[12:57] <SotDX> opening their small wings
[12:58] <SotDX> You remember the voice of your Archangel
[12:58] <SotDX> The commands of the High
[12:58] <SotDX> When the blessed weapon was placed in your hands, you felt the perfection of the world
[12:58] <SotDX> The extension of your strength and spirit
[12:59] <SotDX> The postulants were taught and trained
[12:59] <SotDX> the eyes of the nonni watched you with pride, hard against weakness
[12:59] <SotDX> You did not question then
[12:59] <SotDX> You watched, listened, accepted, obeyed
[13:00] <SotDX> It was the nature of your being
[13:00] <SotDX> It was who you were
[13:00] <SotDX> (It is who you are)
[13:00] <SotDX> They never said to you that you were the best among the other Orders
[13:00] <SotDX> but all knew it
[13:00] <SotDX> You were no leader, no reader
[13:01] <SotDX> no healer, no tracker
[13:01] <SotDX> You were a warrior of God
[13:01] <SotDX> A burning blade of strength and glory
[13:01] <SotDX> You were proud
[13:01] <SotDX> And mighty
[13:01] <SotDX> As your brothers and sisters were beside you
[13:01] <SotDX> That was what it had been to be Garathiel
[13:01] <SotDX> new to the world
[13:01] <SotDX> fire in your eyes
[13:01] <SotDX> and in your hands
[13:02] <SotDX> You were a different Engel when you first met Virael
[13:02] <SotDX> How different?
[13:02] <SotDX> Hard to say
[13:02] <SotDX> You were no young Engel then, you had been accepted into the world
[13:03] <SotDX> Virael was young, inexperienced
[13:03] <SotDX> and above all... she watched you with eyes of admiration and worship
[13:03] <SotDX> You were everything she wanted to be
[13:04] <SotDX> Do you remember where you first met her?
[13:04] <Garathiel> Yes.
[13:04] <SotDX> And where was that?
[13:05] <Garathiel> It was just outside the swimming chamber where they taught us how to swim with our wings. She was one of the postulants of that year and I was told to assist the teachers.
[13:05] <SotDX> she had become entangled in her own wings
[13:05] <SotDX> there in the waters
[13:06] <SotDX> you had dived in and helped her
[13:06] <SotDX> at first she was ashamed and embarrassed
[13:06] <SotDX> to have needed help
[13:06] <SotDX> but that changed
[13:06] <SotDX> You had made her feel at ease
[13:06] <SotDX> said some nothing about having had trouble yourself when you had first learned
[13:07] <SotDX> it had meant the world to her
[13:07] <SotDX> saved her honor in the face of mistake
[13:07] <SotDX> Often the two of you spoke together
[13:07] <SotDX> you showed her secrets of battle
[13:07] <SotDX> that you had learned both in practice and real war
[13:08] <SotDX> (Tell me of the things you showed her)
[13:08] <Garathiel> I showed her how to use her wings in the air. How to blind enemies using them, and how to strike when they were distraught.
[13:09] <SotDX> And she watched with rapt attention.
[13:09] <SotDX> She learned.
[13:09] <SotDX> She never equaled your skill in battle, though you never spoke of it.
[13:09] <SotDX> Still, she excelled and learned
[13:09] <SotDX> At first she was your young disciple, but in time...
[13:09] <SotDX> she became a friend.
[13:10] <SotDX> The hardest lesson she had to learn
[13:10] <SotDX> was the one of accepting the death of her fellows.
[13:10] <SotDX> You remember the day that the monach...
[13:10] <SotDX> Caravus
[13:11] <SotDX> How Virael and he had nearly come to blows
[13:11] <SotDX> over lies
[13:11] <SotDX> hiding the truth
[13:11] <SotDX> You had stopped the conflict that day
[13:11] <SotDX> you had tried so hard to teach her
[13:11] <SotDX> make her understand
[13:12] <SotDX> At the time... she had listened
[13:12] <SotDX> You remember that day
[13:12] <SotDX> Standing before her
[13:12] <SotDX> saying the words
[13:12] <SotDX> "Don't get involved."
[13:13] <SotDX> (we are in that place and that time)
[13:13] <Garathiel> (OK)
[13:13] <SotDX> Virael: "But I can not accept it."
[13:13] <SotDX> Virael was still upset, the tears had been cleaned away
[13:13] <SotDX> but her friend was still dead
[13:14] <Garathiel> "You will have to."
[13:14] <Garathiel> Garathiel shrugged, casting a glance over his shoulder.
[13:14] <SotDX> "But Aruel was your friend as well! Don't you care that they hide the truth from us?"
[13:15] <SotDX> Virael sighed
[13:15] <Garathiel> "What truth do you mean? That they say we are immortal?" He snorted, grabbing Virael's arm to drag her into the shadows of a secluded niche.
[13:15] <Garathiel> "Now you listen. It's important. Do I have your attention?"
[13:16] <SotDX> Virael nodded... but you could SEE defiance... danger... in her eyes
[13:17] <Garathiel> Gaathiel drew a deep breath - and let it out again. This situation was crap and he knew it. This conversation shouldn't happen in the first place.
[13:17] <Garathiel> "You remember the exact wording they give you, concerning the deaths of our kind? 'The soul can not die but you live in vessels of flesh.' Right?"
[13:17] <SotDX> Virael nodded, though less strongly
[13:18] <Garathiel> "Now, that is a half truth. And we've had our discussion about that, too. The soul is eternal, and it ascends when the vessel is damaged beyond repair. That is what happened to him. And that is all you will have to know."
[13:18] <Garathiel> He let go of Virael's arm, looking back to check if they were alone. They still were, but the question was for how long.
[13:19] <SotDX> Virael didn't seem to care about being discovered, though she was not yelling as she had before in the Monach's chambers
[13:19] <SotDX> "Then why do they make us think we can not fall? Why do they fill us with this false sense of invulnerability?"
[13:19] <SotDX> "We are Engel of the Lord!"
[13:20] <SotDX> Tears threatened to return to her eyes
[13:20] <Garathiel> "For the love of our parens, Virael, don't dig into that subject!"
[13:20] <Garathiel> He grabbed her arms again, this time with a hard and painful grip. Now it didn't matter if she cried. This was important. Gabrielites learned by pain and mistakes, sometimes both. if this was the way of it, so be it - though he felt uncomfortable doing so. Very much.
[13:21] <SotDX> Virael's eyes flamed with sudden anger
[13:21] <SotDX> She shoved back against Garathiel with all of her strength
[13:21] <SotDX> throwing you against the wall
[13:21] <SotDX> "Let me go!"
[13:21] <SotDX> (She caught you by surprise)
[13:22] <Garathiel> "Not until you promise me by your sword you will keep this quiet!"
[13:22] <Garathiel> Garathiel had to let go, rubbing his left wrist and frowned down at the smaller Engel.
[13:22] <SotDX> Virael rubs here arms where you grabbed them so fiercely
[13:22] <SotDX> "I can't just turn away from things like you do.
[13:22] <SotDX> I understand what you are saying to me...
[13:22] <SotDX> Believe me.
[13:23] <SotDX> And I don't doubt Aruel is safe in heaven. But it remains that they don't even want to tell me
[13:23] <SotDX> what happened to send him there."
[13:23] <SotDX> Virael crosses her arms and looks down
[13:23] <SotDX> You hear footsteps
[13:23] <SotDX> the sound of others in this part of the Himmel
[13:24] <Garathiel> Garathiel sighed, then fanned out his left wing to cover Virael under it.
[13:24] <Garathiel> Steps? Not good!
[13:24] <Garathiel> "Come with me", he said and avoided touching her again. But if his glance could kill Virael would have been stabbed by a dozen hastas by now.
[13:24] <SotDX> Virael backs away
[13:24] <SotDX> "Not now. I need time to think... alone."
[13:24] <SotDX> Virael starts to back away from you
[13:25] <SotDX> the footsteps are closer now
[13:25] <Garathiel> "Promise me", he hissed in a whisper. The last thing he could do.
[13:25] <SotDX> probably someone coming from around the corner soon
[13:29] <SotDX> Virael says nothing
[13:30] <SotDX> and walks down the hall in the opposite direction
[13:30] <SotDX> leaving you angry, frustrated, and upset
[13:30] <SotDX> A monach comes down the hall from the other direction, nods to you with respect,
[13:30] <SotDX> and continues on his way
[13:30] <SotDX> you are there in the corner
[13:30] <SotDX> worried over Variel
[13:30] <SotDX> and angry
[13:31] <Garathiel> Garathiel had the urge to bang his head against the wall. Well then, he had done everything he possibly could. If _she_ wouldn't listen she would have to deal with the consequences.
[13:31] <Garathiel> 'Father', he prayed. 'This is out of my hands now. Guide her.'
[13:31] <SotDX> Frustrated with the situation, but committing the matter to the High
[13:32] <SotDX> you make your way back to the common areas of the Himmel
[13:32] <SotDX> among other Gabrielites
[13:32] <SotDX> perhaps seeking solace with your fellows
[13:32] <SotDX> both young and old
[13:32] <SotDX> You overhear a conversation within a circle in a far corner of the chamber
[13:33] <SotDX> a Gabrielite voice you recognize
[13:33] <SotDX> Nazriel, an accomplished and renown warrior
[13:33] <SotDX> Nazriel: "But you must admit... brothers... sisters...
[13:33] <SotDX> No other Order is as ours.
[13:33] <SotDX> We are the strong arm of the Church.
[13:34] <SotDX> Perhaps it is not just that we follow."
[13:34] <SotDX> Other murmur in ascent
[13:35] <SotDX> others just listen
[13:35] <SotDX> it is a circle of seven Engel
[13:35] <SotDX> You have heard such talk before
[13:35] <SotDX> there are no small number of Gabrielites who think that it is not right they have to follow...
[13:35] <SotDX> that they should Lead
[13:35] <SotDX> What do you do?
[13:35] <SotDX> Do you walk over to the group?

[13:37] <Garathiel> Garathiel stayed where he was, listening, thinking.

[13:37] <Garathiel> Yes, that talk was familier, but... there had to be reason the other orders existed, especially the Michaelites.
[13:37] <Garathiel> And after all, it was not for Engel to decide who led and who followed.
[13:37] <Garathiel> So he observed the group, eyeing Nazriel thoughtfully.
[13:38] <SotDX> Nazriel, half listening to a younger Engel next to him, catches your gaze and stands
[13:38] <SotDX> Nazriel calls out to you from across the chamber
[13:39] <SotDX> Nazriel:"Ah... a true warrior if there ever was one! Noble Garathiel, come join us!"
[13:39] <SotDX> He beckons you to join the circle
[13:40] <SotDX> You have never fought beside Nazriel, but you know of his great battles
[13:40] <SotDX> It is said he has saved his Fellowship more than once
[13:40] <SotDX> by the strength of his sword-arm
[13:40] <SotDX> but many things are said, are they not?
[13:40] <Garathiel> 'Great'. Inwardly rolling eyes, Garathiel walks over to the group, exchanged short courtesies and nods with everyone, grabbing Nazriel's right arm in the traditional greeting of Gabrielite to Gabrielite.
[13:40] <Garathiel> But still he said nothing, just tried to capture the mood of the group.
[13:41] <SotDX> murmurs overhead around the circle... one speaking of the indignity of following a Michaelite, another questioning if it is right for a Gabrielite to lead
[13:41] <SotDX> Nazriel returns your greeting
[13:42] <SotDX> "I wish all present to know this noble Engel of honor and power."
[13:42] <SotDX> Nazriel statements results in a great showing of respect from all in the circle to you
[13:42] <SotDX> One of the Engel brings a stool for you to sit with them
[13:43] <SotDX> One of the Engel comments: "Garathiel... I have heard spoken the battle you fought with the Dreamseed at the lake of Calais!"
[13:43] <SotDX> Others nod and murmur
[13:44] <SotDX> their admiration brings back the stinging feeling of Virael
[13:44] <Garathiel> Garathiel accepts the stool with a friendly nod and seats himself, wings folded neatly on his back.
[13:44] <Garathiel> "Yes, I was there." Garathiel grimaced slightly, as much in memory of the battle as of recalling his last dispute with Virael.
[13:45] <SotDX> Nazriel looks at the rapt attention of those around... and considers...
[13:45] <SotDX> Naz:"Tell us of that great battle, friend Garathiel."
[13:47] <Garathiel> Garathiel sighs inwardly, smiles on the outside and starts his much-studied recollection of this battle.
[13:47] <Garathiel> Some things, he discovered during his years - a gabrielite can learn.
[13:47] <Garathiel> Rhetoric performance is one of them. And he knows how to catch the attention of his audience with some gore-dripping tale...
[13:47] <SotDX> You can see the expectant desire on the faces of those around... eager for the tale
[13:49] <SotDX> As you finish recounting the events
[13:49] <SotDX> you realize the circle has grown by four more Engel
[13:52] <Garathiel> Looking up Garathiel discovers his audience has expanded and he smiles.
[13:52] <Garathiel> 'Well, they always fall for this. Four this time, next time the dozen.'
[13:52] <Garathiel> "It was a nasty fight, my friends," he ends his tale. "But I believe the scholars said they discovered a new species of Dreamseed after they investigated the shore afterwards. One I have never seen before and more than three wingspans long..."
[13:53] <SotDX> Nazriel slaps you on the back (hard)
[13:53] <SotDX> Naz:"Yes... quite a tale indeed! It reminds me of several of my own battles."
[13:53] <SotDX> Attention diverts back to Naz
[13:54] <SotDX> Naz:"Before you arrived, friend Garathiel, we were discussing a matter dear to my own heart."

[13:54] <Garathiel> 'Airhead' is Garathiel's only thought. He managed not to slip off the stool by that slap and ruffles Nazriel's head with the joint of his wing, grinning.

[13:54] <SotDX> Naziel ducks and ignores
[13:55] <Garathiel> "Which was?"
[13:55] <SotDX> Nazriel:"We were considering if it is a just thing that we... the true champions of all Engel... that we do not lead the Fellowships we so often save by our skill and abilities."
[13:55] <SotDX> several around the circle nod in agreement
[13:55] <SotDX> the pride and arrogance around you is palpable
[13:56] * Garathiel looks around, slowly raising two hands to show seven extended fingers. "Does this number mean anything to you?" He looks over his shoulder, at the open entrance.
[13:57] <SotDX> Curious faces confirm they do not understand
[13:57] <SotDX> Nazriel, though, nods
[13:57] <Garathiel> "Well, Nazriel?" Garathiel raised one eyebrow in question. "Tell us."
[13:57] <SotDX> Naz:"You imply that there are... or were... seven Orders for a reason. Am I correct?"
[13:58] <Garathiel> "Yes, something like that. Let's settle on this first, shall we." Garathiel slightly opened his wings to look bigger, maneuvering himself back to the center of attention. The trick of a storyteller he had adapted quickly.
[13:58] <SotDX> the eyes of the others are drawn to you
[13:59] * Garathiel was keeping an eye on Nazriel's reaction, ready to change tactics if the other Gabrielite should not react well to this new situation.
[14:00] <SotDX> Nazriel waits and watches, curious it seems to see what you will say, sizing you up
[14:01] <Garathiel> 'Dork', Garathiel thought and looked at the other Engel, one after the other. "I believe there is a reason we were Seven Fighting Orders. Now, that our numbers are diminishes it will be considered even more important to keep the status quo as it is."
[14:02] <SotDX> One Engel says:"But how can the status quo be kept as Orders fall? Do things not change?"
[14:02] <SotDX> Another mutters:"But did not those who fall do so for their weakness?"
[14:03] <SotDX> A third:"And we are an order without weakness... unlike the others."
[14:03] <Garathiel> "Things do change, indeed. There is no question in that. And I do believe a little change does all of us well. After all existence is all about change. But the church is about permanence." Watching the other, Garathiels glance returned to Nazriel.
[14:04] <SotDX> Nazriel nods, thinking.
[14:04] <SotDX> Nazriel speaks:"I am no Ramielite. I do not spend my hours in silent thought with distant voices.
[14:04] <SotDX> "
[14:04] <SotDX> The others nod at this
[14:04] <SotDX> "But I know this
[14:04] <SotDX> without question:
[14:05] <SotDX> We are the strong arm within the Church. Should we not then lead better than others?"
[14:05] <SotDX> One voice speaks up across the circle, an Engel you do not know
[14:06] <SotDX> He asks:"Garathiel, did not your Michaelite fall in the battle of Calais? And yet you stand here before us. Is that not proof who is stronger?"
[14:06] <SotDX> Some look scandalized at his suggestion that your fallen friend is proof of the Gabrielite superiority
[14:06] <SotDX> Nazriel looks away also
[14:06] <Garathiel> "It might be proof for whatever you wish. But keep in mind it will not be your part to bring about such great changes. How would you want to accomplish this?"
[14:07] <Garathiel> Garathiel ignored the scandalized expressions, settling on the theory of this would-be problem.
[14:07] <SotDX> Nazriel:"Of course it is not our place to change such things. We only discuss here what should be."
[14:08] <Garathiel> "The Tempter should be locked in an Eternal Prison. Same theory. You won't change things by wishing them away. You will have to do something to achieve them."
[14:08] <SotDX> The Engel who spoke of the death of your Michaelite:"Em Susat is wise. She will see that things change for the better."
[14:09] <SotDX> Nazriel:"Yes... it is wise what you say. Wishing does not change the world. But we are strong, and with our strength the enemy is slain."
[14:09] <SotDX> One of the other nameless Engel speaks:"What do you suggest we do to make these changes, Garathiel?"
[14:11] <Garathiel> "True". Garathiel drew in a deep breath.
[14:11] <Garathiel> "What do I suggest?" Garathiel shrugged with his wings. "I am a warrior of God, no tactician. How should I know? Did someone catch me with a feather quill lately?"
[14:11] <Garathiel> He looked around as if in search of something, a comical expression on his face before sobering unexpentantly.
[14:11] <Garathiel> "No. It is not our part to do so. There are other and wiser head above us, and with good reason. Em Susat for example."
[14:12] <SotDX> All nod at the mention of the leader of the Order
[14:13] <SotDX> Nazriel levels his gaze at you
[14:13] <SotDX> Naz:"But tell me one thing: you would prefer a world in which we lead the other Orders to victory. Am I correct?"
[14:14] <SotDX> All eyes are on you
[14:15] <Garathiel> Garathiel looks up at Nazriel, folding his wings again. "I would wish for many things, brother. If I had a say in this, we would not be necessary. We would all be in heaven, with Father and our parens, glad not to be down here. But things are not as I wish them to be."
[14:15] <Garathiel> Garathiel spoke very softly while he studied Nazriel's face in detail.
[14:15] <Garathiel> Seven as the number of the Death Sins. Pride being one of them.
[14:16] <SotDX> All nod and make signs of agreement
[14:16] <SotDX> Nazriel's mask slips for a moment and you catch a hint of anger directed at you, but then it is gone and he is smiling and complimenting you on your wisdom
[14:17] <SotDX> Then you are tapped on the shoulder by another Engel
[14:17] <SotDX> "Garathiel?"
[14:17] <Garathiel> Garathiel turned. "Yes?"
[14:17] <Garathiel> He felt he had done the right thing and had marked Nazriel as dangerous and ambitious on his mental list.
[14:18] <SotDX> A young Engel looks up at you and greets you
[14:18] <SotDX> "I was sent to let you know you have been summoned"
[14:19] <SotDX> Nazriel smiles to the others.
[14:19] <SotDX> Naz:"The world can not stand without friend Garathiel to fight for it!"
[14:20] <Garathiel> Garathiel rose from his stool, smiling down on the younger Engel. Then he turned to the circle.
[14:20] <Garathiel> "I apologize. I feel I am needed elsewhere." And with a curt nod to all those around him he added, "We hear and we obey, as it is."
[14:20] <Garathiel> He looked at Nazriel, feeling the sting behind his double-edged words. "As it could not stand with your ideas, brother." Touche.
[14:20] <SotDX> The others nod to you with respect
[14:21] <Garathiel> "Now, where am I needed?" Garathiel led the other Engel away from the circle, glad to have an excuse to leave them. He had the urge to scrub himself clean. Nazriel, indeed...
[14:22] <SotDX> The younger Engel directs you to the chamber of leadership, where Engel are given their orders in the upper part of the Himmel
[14:22] <SotDX> he has no details
[14:23] <SotDX> and once his instructions are related, heads off to other business
[14:25] <Garathiel> Garathiel shook his head after he was alone, straightened his skirts and went to enter the chamber alone. In front of the door he paused to knock. Thrice and clearly audible.
[14:25] <SotDX> The door was opened before you
[14:26] <SotDX> the great chamber was before you
[14:26] * Garathiel entered, his gaze downcast in humble respect to whoever might be inside. To receive new orders.
[14:26] <SotDX> An aid to Em Susat welcomes you
[14:26] <SotDX> and a single Engel stands to his side
[14:26] <SotDX> A Michaelite it seems
[14:26] <SotDX> (new leader for your Fellowship?)
[14:27] <SotDX> (you have been here as a teacher for some time)
[14:27] <Garathiel> (ok)
[14:27] <SotDX> (since the battle of Calais)
[14:27] <SotDX> The aid greats you, and introduces you
[14:28] <SotDX> "Noble Garathiel, this is Tobriel, the new Michaelite you will serve."
[14:28] <SotDX> Tobriel nods to you, though his eyes seem distant
[14:28] <SotDX> unfocused
[14:28] <SotDX> something seems wrong about him
[14:28] <SotDX> He says nothing to you
[14:29] * Garathiel looks up to nod to the Michaelite and eyes him to get a first impression. What he sees concerns him, but the Gabrielite does not show a sign of disrespect and keeps his face neutral
[14:29] <Garathiel> 'What the heck is wrong with that goldie locks?' he muses silently.
[14:29] <SotDX> (you are good at hiding your thoughts)
[14:29] <Garathiel> (jup)
[14:29] <SotDX> Tobriel looks directly at you, but you feel as if he does not even see you
[14:29] <SotDX> He seems so distant
[14:30] <SotDX> the aid breaks the silence
[14:30] <SotDX> "The rest of your Fellowship is being assembled, but Em Susat wished you to meet now. You will be sent on a most important mission shortly."
[14:32] <Garathiel> Garathiel nods, silently musing about the new Michaelite. 'Is he arrogant or simply high?' He had had his past experiences with drugged Michaelites. They sometimes seem to develop an affinity for Angel's Dust, a powerful drug.
[14:33] <SotDX> The aid leaves the two of you alone in the large empty chamber
[14:33] <SotDX> The Michaelite merely stands there before you
[14:33] <SotDX> unspeaking
[14:34] <SotDX> Do you speak?
[14:34] * Garathiel takes his time studying the face of the other Engel, especially watching for signs of dilated pupils which would indicate the use of any drugs. He stands relaxed, waiting, obviously satisfied to do nothing else than that. If anyone should open conversation it would be the Michaelite.
[14:34] <SotDX> (ok)
[14:35] <SotDX> You see no signs of dilated pupils or constricted veins
[14:35] <SotDX> He stands, seemingly unconcerned with his surroundings
[14:35] <SotDX> He does speak at last
[14:35] <SotDX> "I am pleased you are to fight at my side."
[14:36] <SotDX> He still does not focus on you, staring off into the distance
[14:36] * Garathiel nods.
[14:36] <SotDX> He reaches up and rubs the side of his head
[14:36] <SotDX> Again, nothing from him
[14:37] <SotDX> silence, and silence alone
[14:37] <SotDX> Again, your instincts tell you something is not right with this Tobriel
[14:38] <Garathiel> Garathiel starts to wonder if his new Michaelite is busy with some kind of silent conference. Perhaps with the rest of the fellowship-to-be.
[14:38] <Garathiel> Finally he decides it is time for him to say something. "My name is Garathiel."
[14:38] <SotDX> Tobriel looks at you, for a moment
[14:38] <SotDX> "Yes... I am aware of your name."
[14:38] <SotDX> His voice comes across cold.
[14:38] <SotDX> "And I believe you know mine. If not, it is Tobriel."
[14:39] <SotDX> again, his voice is empty of feeling or passion... lifeless
[14:39] <Garathiel> 'A breakthrough' Garathiel thinks, but only to himself.
[14:39] <Garathiel> "Yes, I have heard it. They introduced us before."
[14:39] <Garathiel> He shifts his weight from one foot to the other, slightly moving his wings. Then he makes a point of studying the spot of the wall Tobriel seemes to stare at. maybe that will get through to him.
[14:40] <SotDX> Perhaps it did get through to him? He turns and starts to walk out of the chamber.
[14:40] <SotDX> Do you follow?
[14:40] <Garathiel> "He didn't say a word, but he is my new Michaelite. Where he goes, I follow. But not to the bathroom", Garathiel mumbles to himself and simply walks after Tobriel. Curious fellow. What will happen now?
[14:41] <SotDX> He proceeds to a chamber large enough for a Fellowship and walks in
[14:42] <SotDX> He motions for you to enter
[14:42] <SotDX> He settles himself on the floor and closes his eyes
[14:42] <Garathiel> Garathiel does as indicated and enters the room, looking around. he stops, close to the door and is a little more alerted than he would care for anyone to know. His right hand rests on the hilt of his sword.
[14:43] <SotDX> He seems to be meditating
[14:43] <SotDX> He speaks
[14:43] <SotDX> "You find me strange."
[14:43] * Garathiel prepares for a very long time to stand guard...
[14:43] <SotDX> again, the voice seems languid... lifeless
[14:43] <Garathiel> "What?" Surprised, he looks down at Tobriel, then scratched his nose with the fingers of the left hand. "It has come to my mind, yes." Why lie?
[14:44] <SotDX> He nods, but ever so slightly, all the while his eyes are still closed
[14:44] * Garathiel waits. Maybe for an explanation.
[14:45] <SotDX> he says nothing
[14:45] <SotDX> only sits with his eyes shut... in meditation
[14:45] * Garathiel says nothing as well. What choice does he have?
[14:46] <Garathiel> Instead he patrols the room silently, examining it without making much noise.
[14:46] <SotDX> (you could try to leave... or try to talk to him further?)
[14:46] <SotDX> the room is empty of much of anything
[14:46] <SotDX> a simple cellae for a Fellowship
[14:47] <SotDX> "You are uneasy."
[14:47] <SotDX> again, he speaks!
[14:48] <Garathiel> "I am... a bit" garathiel turns around and stares at the back of Tobriel. Maybe that will touch him. As a tactician he must have learned not to expose his back to anyone. maybe his reaction will indicate how far he trusts Garathiel himself.
[14:48] <SotDX> he does not move
[14:48] <SotDX> his back is exposed to you
[14:48] <SotDX> he sits perfectly still
[14:48] <SotDX> his legs folded
[14:49] <Garathiel> "May I suggest you say what you want of me - standing around all day or something else? Might make things a bit easier for both of us." Garathiel keeps his voice light and casual and friendly.
[14:49] <SotDX> Tobriel does not react
[14:51] * Garathiel shrugs and positions himself behind Tobirel, abaout half an arm's length apart from his back feathers. Definitely under the distance that is considered polite to keep to someone else. He is aware of himself trying to force some sort of reaction from the Michaelite.
[14:51] <SotDX> Tobriel, eyes still shut:"Why would I want anything of you? You will fight beside me when the time comes."
[14:51] <Garathiel> "Indeed I will." Garathiel keeps his position where he stands.
[14:52] <SotDX> Tobriel:"And when I fall, you will weep for me."
[14:52] * Garathiel opens his mouth, unbelieving what he just heard. "That's a... bold assumption" he finally manages to say. "I hardly know you, have no sympathies for you."
[14:53] <SotDX> Tobriel says nothing.
[14:53] <SotDX> You are getting frustrated
[14:53] <Garathiel> Garathiel is getting used to Tobriel saying nothing. This Michaelite seems to know only two modes: say nothing or say weird things.
[14:54] * Garathiel starts to say little granny-rhymes in his head to pass time.
[14:55] <SotDX> (ok... if you don't mind I'd like to skip ahead a bit)
[14:55] <Garathiel> (OK *g*)
[14:55] <SotDX> In time, the rest of the Fellowship was put together
[14:55] <SotDX> Tobriel warmed a little
[14:55] <SotDX> with time
[14:55] <SotDX> but he always seemed more dead than alive to you
[14:55] <SotDX> in battle he was clear headed, and fast to give orders
[14:55] <SotDX> leading with clear instruction
[14:56] <SotDX> but his emotions
[14:56] <SotDX> seemed absent
[14:56] <SotDX> you often thought it was as if he was already dead inside
[14:56] <SotDX> his strange words
[14:56] <SotDX> often haunted you
[14:56] <SotDX> what did he mean
[14:56] <SotDX> you would weep for him?
[14:56] <SotDX> Admittedly, you grew to have some small fondness for your fellows
[14:56] <SotDX> but he was always so cold and aloof
[14:57] <SotDX> and you never understood why!
[14:57] <SotDX> it was maddening
[14:57] <SotDX> a year passed
[14:57] <SotDX> Your Fellowship was resting at a Monastery
[14:58] <SotDX> the Urielite of your group had suffered great wounds in a recent mission
[14:58] <SotDX> and while he rested you waited
[14:58] <SotDX> You are returning from a short flight, stretching your wings
[14:58] <SotDX> and you find Tobriel sitting on the roof
[14:58] <SotDX> eyes closed
[14:58] <SotDX> mediating as he always does
[14:59] <SotDX> you land near him
[14:59] <SotDX> and watch him for a moment
[14:59] <SotDX> before you turn to leave him
[14:59] <SotDX> he speaks
[14:59] <SotDX> "I have never told you the truth."
[14:59] <SotDX> his voice is more alive than you are used to
[14:59] <SotDX> almost approaching that of a normal being
[14:59] * Garathiel nearly falls off the roof with surprise.
[15:00] <Garathiel> "Ah, no, you haven't." Garathiel scrambles back on the roof.
[15:00] <SotDX> His eyes are still shut
[15:00] <SotDX> the night wind ruffles his blonde hair
[15:01] <SotDX> you notice a tear in the corner of his left eye
[15:01] <Garathiel> "What is it with you?"
[15:01] * Garathiel approaches carefully, wings stretched out a bit for balance.
[15:02] <SotDX> "You have been angered many times at my strangeness. I remember feeling the distrust from you when first we met."
[15:02] <SotDX> His eyes are still shut
[15:02] <Garathiel> "Well, you will have to admit, you are a bit... well..."
[15:02] * Garathiel is running out of ways to put it politely.
[15:02] <SotDX> Tobriel smiles(!) slightly
[15:02] <SotDX> again, shocking you
[15:03] * Garathiel blinks in surprise.
[15:03] <SotDX> "I knew when Hathriel was so injured that the time was nearly here."
[15:03] <SotDX> (Hathriel was the Urielite of your Fellowship)
[15:03] <SotDX> (or is...)
[15:04] <Garathiel> "And how do you know that?"
[15:04] * Garathiel looks around, puzzled. What is happening here, right now?
[15:04] <SotDX> He opens his blue eyes which nearly glow in the moonlight
[15:04] <SotDX> "Did you ever learn what happened to me before I came to lead you?"
[15:05] <SotDX> (no)
[15:05] <Garathiel> "No. How should I? You were dumped in front of me, as is." Garathiel gestures vaguely, feeling out of place and unequipped to handle this situation. 'Give me something to chop up. For THAt I was trained!'
[15:06] <SotDX> He fixes his gaze on you. There is a new tenderness in his eyes.
[15:06] * Garathiel flinches back a bit, almost dropping off the roof again. Another shock.
[15:07] <SotDX> "My Fellowship... my fallen Fellowship... we fought against a Dreamseed unlike any I had ever seen. It was a thing of shadows and dreams, flitting within the hidden places within one's mind."
[15:07] <SotDX> He blinks once, slowly
[15:08] * Garathiel has never heard of such a Dreamseed, but then, almost every week another species seem to pop up from out of nowhere. He nods, unsure what else to do.
[15:08] <SotDX> "We fought it with our strength and might. It changed itself into different forms. Things... things like what you find in your darkest nightmares. Shapes that have no place outside the heart of the Brandlands!"
[15:08] * Garathiel nods again.
[15:08] <SotDX> Tobriel seems seized by a passion now, filled with vigor
[15:08] <SotDX> his body shakes slightly, a tremble to his arms
[15:09] <SotDX> "We fought it with our craft and skill. I watched as our Gabrielite’s burning light was put to dark. I shouted as our Urielite flew no more. Before my eyes, the Raphaelite was unfleshed."
[15:09] * Garathiel is becoming slightly worried, recapitulating the time it would take him to get the rapahelite of the fellowship here.
[15:09] <SotDX> Again, he blinks slowly, another tear collecting
[15:10] <Garathiel> "How come you survived this?"
[15:10] <SotDX> Tobriel stands slowly
[15:10] <SotDX> "There was only the two of us left.
[15:10] <SotDX> The shapes kept changing,
[15:10] <SotDX> reaching into our minds finding new twisted life.
[15:11] <SotDX> I could see our time was running out. How could we stand alone against this thing?"
[15:11] * Garathiel gets to his feet as well and within an arm's reach of Tobriel. He does not trust this situation a bit.
[15:11] <SotDX> Tobriel reaches out to the empty air
[15:11] <SotDX> "Then it happened."
[15:11] <SotDX> He closes his eyes
[15:12] * Garathiel opens his wings and prepares himself to react to... anything.
[15:12] <SotDX> He clutches himself with his arms tightly
[15:12] <SotDX> the tremble fading for the moment
[15:13] <Garathiel> "What?"
[15:13] <SotDX> He opens his eyes and looks at you with wild intensity in his eyes
[15:13] <SotDX> his voice is shaken
[15:13] <SotDX> "Atheriel opened herself to the shadow-beast and took it inside her."
[15:14] <SotDX> "She welcomed it within herself and then trapped it."
[15:14] <Garathiel> "Why?" Atheriel had to be the Gabrielite, right? Garathiel swallows and carefully takes hold of Tobriel's right arm.
[15:14] <SotDX> "I watched it struggle to get out of her, both flesh and thought, but it could not. It bit into her deeply, drinking of her... and she would not relent."
[15:14] <SotDX> Tobriel looks down at your hand absently, as if he is unsure of what it even is.
[15:15] <SotDX> He blinks again slowly
[15:15] <Garathiel> 'Oh no, not good.' Garathiel had a sick feeling what the end of this story might be and secured his grip around Tobriel's arm.
[15:15] <SotDX> "She trapped it to keep it from killing me also. To stop it."
[15:16] <SotDX> "I watched it slowly kill her, her body rotting before my eyes. The unclean thing inside her wailed to be released, but she held it within her heart and mind and let it die within her."
[15:16] * Garathiel sighs and shakes his head.
[15:16] <SotDX> "I watched this powerless to stop it. I watched this and was glad to be alive.... I was... relieved to be saved as my sister died."
[15:17] <SotDX> Tobriel reaches down and tries to remove your hand
[15:17] <SotDX> "That is not all."
[15:17] <Garathiel> "And what is?" Garathiel draws back his hand. "Just... don#t do anything stupid, right? Come, let's settle down again." He watches Tobriel warily.
[15:17] <SotDX> Tobriel steps away from you for a moment, his back to you
[15:18] <SotDX> Then he turns around and levels you with his dead gaze, his eyes lifeless again
[15:18] <SotDX> "I do not understand it. I can guess... perhaps it was the force of the beast inside her, or the sudden loss of her life energy..."
[15:18] <SotDX> He shakes his head
[15:19] <SotDX> "No... I do not understand how... I only know what."
[15:19] * Garathiel stands on the roof and listens.
[15:19] <SotDX> "She told me... Atheriel said..."
[15:19] <SotDX> He shakes his head more violently, and hugs himself again
[15:20] <SotDX> "It was her gift... you see, the gift of prophecy... the voice of the Lord..."
[15:21] * Garathiel corrected his assumption. Atheriel the Ramielite. He nodded dully.
[15:22] <SotDX> Tobriel sighs... and lets out a moan
[15:22] <SotDX> "Can I even bring myself to say it?"
[15:23] <SotDX> He mutters to himself..."If I do, he will think I'm crazy. Then again... he already does."
[15:23] * Garathiel feels caught, grinning a bit. "Maybe. Maybe, yes."
[15:24] <SotDX> Tobriel gives way to a sad broken laugh
[15:24] <SotDX> "And who could blame you?"
[15:24] * Garathiel reaches out again to touch Tobriel's wing, this time more gently.
[15:24] <SotDX> Tobriel does not pull away
[15:24] <SotDX> "Garathiel... Atheriel told me as she lay there wasting away that she could see my future.
[15:25] <SotDX> She told me of what lay ahead for me.
[15:25] <SotDX> And she told me of my... my death."
[15:25] * Garathiel carefully stroked the downy feathers of one wing, thinking hard. While he listens he nods, encouraging Tobriel to speak.
[15:25] <SotDX> Tobriel closes his eyes firmly
[15:25] <Garathiel> "You don't have to do that, see?" Garathiel speaks softly and approaches a bit closer.
[15:25] <SotDX> "I want to deny the words. Believe me. But she described you as you stand before me. Everything.
[15:26] <SotDX> She spoke of some of the very missions we have had this year.
[15:26] <SotDX> Details... places... sights!
[15:26] <SotDX> She told me that my Urielite would fall, but live...
[15:26] * Garathiel feels like he is hit with a hammer over his head. And that means...
[15:26] <SotDX> And then I would know my death was near.
[15:26] <SotDX> "Do you remember what I told you that first day we met?"
[15:27] * Garathiel clears his throat. "That about I would weep when you fall? Or the other things. You said some things that day." He tries to smile but fails miserably.
[15:28] <SotDX> "Yes... that you would weep over my death.
[15:28] <SotDX> A death that will come soon now.
[15:28] <SotDX> All too soon..."
[15:28] <SotDX> He lowers his head.
[15:28] <SotDX> "I have lived with this in my head for over a year.
[15:28] <SotDX> I have lived as one already dead."
[15:28] <Garathiel> "But you are not dead!" Garathiel speaks up loud, suddenly.
[15:29] <SotDX> Tobriel is startled by your sudden outburst
[15:29] <SotDX> "It is only a matter of time."
[15:29] <SotDX> His eyes are empty of life, more lost than you have ever seen them
[15:30] <Garathiel> "Now, now, come one and listen..." garathiel steps forward, placing both hands on Tobriel's shoulders and wraps his wings around him - as he has done some times with Virael.
[15:30] <Garathiel> "You are NOT dead. You are still your annoying self. And I don't buy that crap that a prophecy cannot be changed."
[15:31] <SotDX> Tobriel looks at you with his sad eyes
[15:31] <SotDX> "Then what of the past year? Sweet Atheriel has not been wrong once.
[15:31] <SotDX> I will die... and you will go on."
[15:32] <Garathiel> "Well... you haven't told me until now, right? maybe it needs an Engel to know and to change. What do I know of something like that?"
[15:32] * Garathiel simply refuses to believe in prophecies and locks his wings behind Tobriels back. he does not notice how close he stands to the Michaelite. And how that would look to an unsuspecting witness.
[15:33] <SotDX> Tobriel shakes his head but does not pull away
[15:33] <SotDX> "I am... sorry."
[15:33] <Garathiel> "What for now?" Garathiel blinks in confusion.
[15:33] <SotDX> "For... for not telling you. For being so distant."
[15:34] <Garathiel> "Well, now better late then never, right? You did tell me... do the others know?"
[15:34] <SotDX> Tobriel shakes his head no
[15:34] <Garathiel> "Will you tell them? Later?"
[15:34] <SotDX> "Somehow I prayed that if I did not speak of it... it would not come to pass. I could deny it. I see now there is no denying my fate."
[15:35] <Garathiel> "My... ever heard of a self-fulfilling prophecy, while we're at the subject?"
[15:35] <SotDX> "There is something else you should know. Atheriel spoke of you also, not by name, but by the Gabrielite who would weep over my fall.
[15:35] * Garathiel sighs and listens.
[15:36] <SotDX> She described you, but more importantly, she said you were an Engel destined to visit foreign lands. You were to...
[15:36] <SotDX> "
[15:36] <SotDX> The sound of approaching wings stops him
[15:36] <SotDX> A Urielite messenger approaches the monastery
[15:36] <SotDX> flying in the night sky
[15:36] * Garathiel looks up, quickly disentangles himself from Tobriel, suddenly noticing what has happened.
[15:36] <SotDX> Tobriel:"And here it comes. I welcome it... to be true. I am ready."
[15:37] <Garathiel> "Oh my... look, i'm sorry, I never should have touched you like this... they'll have us for breakfast if they find out..." Garathiel looks up sharply, barely overhearing Tobriel's last sentence.
[15:37] <SotDX> The messenger sees the two of you and lands beside you on the roof
[15:37] <SotDX> she greets you both
[15:38] * Garathiel nods curtly at her, cursing that Tobriel did not finish his sentence.
[15:38] <SotDX> "Brothers, you are called to action! All Fellowship are called to the coast. A strong force of Dreamseed have seen fit to enter our lands and attack. Two other Fellowship are on their way to join forces, but all are needed!"
[15:39] * Garathiel looks at Tobriel while the Urielite delivers her message. Was that what he meant?
[15:40] <SotDX> Tobriel nods to the messenger: "We shall leave at once. We are diminished in strength by one, but will fly beside our brothers in battle."
[15:41] * Garathiel simply nods and looks down at the other buildings. May it be that Tobriel will be right - was right. There was one more thing he wanted to make sure. prophecy or no.
[15:41] <SotDX> Tobriel looks at Garathiel:"Gather the others at once. We fly as soon as we can."
[15:42] <SotDX> Tob:"I will let the Ab know."
[15:42] <SotDX> The messenger thanks you both, and turns to fly off
[15:42] <Garathiel> "Will do. But I need to have a short talk with you first. Won't take a minute." garathiel spread his wings and sailed down from the roof, waiting for the Michaelite to follow.
[15:42] <SotDX> Tobriel follows
[15:42] <SotDX> Upon landing, he starts to walk towards the Ab's chambers
[15:43] * Garathiel landed, turned around and started to fumble at one of his many belts. This particular one was holding a dagger engraved with the sigils of his Order. "Wait, goldie curls, will ya?" He hurried after his Michaelite.
[15:43] <SotDX> are you following him, or following his orders?
[15:43] <SotDX> He turns and looks at you
[15:43] <SotDX> "I gave you an order. Gather the others. We have no time to wait. We must go and face fate."
[15:44] * Garathiel stretched out his hand with the dagger and sheath in it. "I just want you to have this. Take it and I will be on my way."
[15:44] <SotDX> Tobriel cocks his head to the side, curious
[15:44] <SotDX> He nods
[15:45] <SotDX> "Thank you. You are a... a good friend, Garathiel."
[15:45] <SotDX> He takes the dagger
[15:45] <Garathiel> "As you are." Garathiel smiles shyly and all of the sudden turns bright red. "I ah... will be gathering the... others." He quickly whips around, nearly stumbles and hurries to the main building.
[15:49] <SotDX> To battle the Fellowship flew
[15:49] <SotDX> together, as one
[15:49] <SotDX> each ready for battle
[15:49] <SotDX> each prepared to die for their cause
[15:49] <SotDX> the depravations of the Dreamseed had been terrible
[15:49] <SotDX> two villages destroyed
[15:49] <SotDX> the force vile
[15:50] <SotDX> terrible
[15:50] <SotDX> and here, within lands protected!
[15:50] <SotDX> the three Fellowships would fight alongside one another
[15:50] <SotDX> two already in battle
[15:50] <SotDX> the last, your own, arriving as battle flared
[15:50] <SotDX> The Urielite left behind had felt shame at not being with you
[15:51] <SotDX> But you had said brave words to him,
[15:51] <SotDX> told him it would leave more for you to kill
[15:51] <SotDX> and tried to ease his concern
[15:51] <SotDX> You found yourself often looking at Tobriel as you flew together
[15:51] <SotDX> your gift on his belt
[15:51] <SotDX> your thoughts on him
[15:52] <SotDX> It was still night as the four of you flew over a last hill and caught sight of the battle
[15:52] <SotDX> fires burned
[15:52] <SotDX> black forms flew about
[15:53] <SotDX> white and grey wings of Engel shined in the starlight
[15:53] <SotDX> Tobriel swallowed, and ordered you all into battle
[15:53] <SotDX> Tob:"Join your brothers and sisters... fight together, destroy the unclean!"
[15:53] <SotDX> And the four of you descended into the madness below
[15:53] <SotDX> it was hard to say how many Dreamseed fought
[15:54] <SotDX> it was dark
[15:54] <SotDX> and while no Inferno lurked nearby
[15:54] <SotDX> at first it seemed the very earth was birthing the monstrosities
[15:54] <SotDX> you saw two Engel cut down in the first few minutes of the battle
[15:54] <SotDX> (not Tobriel)
[15:54] <SotDX> but you did not let it put fear in your heart
[15:54] <SotDX> you are a warrior true
[15:54] <SotDX> and you fought as such
[15:55] <SotDX> Another Gabrielite's flaming sword catches your eye
[15:55] <SotDX> and you find yourself, in the eddies of battle, drawing near another of your Order
[15:55] <SotDX> Do you call out to your sister?
[15:56] <Garathiel> No. Garathiel did not have any time for coordination. That was up to the Michaelites. But when the opportunity presented itself, to bring down a creature together, he would not hesitate.
[15:56] <SotDX> And such an opportunity does present itself
[15:56] <SotDX> together, you and the other wielding a burning blade fight together
[15:57] <SotDX> and slice a long beast in two
[15:57] <SotDX> and in the light of her blade
[15:57] <SotDX> you see it is Virael who fights beside you
[15:57] <SotDX> and she sees it is you
[15:57] <SotDX> "Garathiel!"
[15:58] <Garathiel> 'Great gabriel!' Garathiel signals her to continue to attack. "Chat later!" he bellows over the noise of battle, pointing down to more beasts. "Left I, right you!"
[15:58] <SotDX> The two of you fall into old battle routines
[15:58] <SotDX> from long days of training together
[15:58] <SotDX> and battles of the past
[15:58] <SotDX> together you fight in unison, more than doubling your power
[15:59] <SotDX> the long year since you have last seen Virael fades away
[15:59] <SotDX> it as if it was only yesterday she stormed off angry
[16:00] <SotDX> You hear Tobriel's commands: "We are winning, brothers... do not relent."
[16:00] <SotDX> You can not see Tobriel in the smoke of the battle
[16:00] <Garathiel> 'So much for his prophecy', Garathiel thinks, doubling the force of his attack, ramming his flaming sword down a gaping maw. "Right!" he roars back. "Off you go, beast!"
[16:00] <SotDX> several of the Dreamseed have the gift of burning spit
[16:01] <SotDX> and they have used it to great effect
[16:01] <SotDX> Virael is cut down her back by an attacker from behind, but she does not fall
[16:01] <SotDX> turning, she slices the beast from top to bottom
[16:01] <SotDX> You, in turn, are slaying the enemy
[16:01] <SotDX> you have been cut
[16:01] <SotDX> and bit
[16:01] <SotDX> but you have not slowed
[16:02] <SotDX> there, in the night
[16:02] <SotDX> you are a force of vengeance and destruction
[16:02] <SotDX> the battle rages until dawn
[16:02] <SotDX> at last, as the sun begins to rise
[16:03] <SotDX> the first rays of light illuminating the twisted forms of Dreamseed and slain Engel
[16:03] <SotDX> You see Tobriel limping, blood running down his side, his arm gone
[16:03] <SotDX> the side of his face a ruin
[16:03] <SotDX> but he is alive
[16:03] <SotDX> if barely
[16:04] <SotDX> other Engel around are badly hurt
[16:04] <SotDX> you have a bad deep gash on your left side
[16:04] <SotDX> and one of your wings was slightly scraped
[16:04] <SotDX> you land near Tobriel ?
[16:05] <Garathiel> When nothing else moves, Garathiel will land near his Michaelite, checking what is left of the Fellowship.
[16:05] <SotDX> you do not see either the Raph or the Ram
[16:05] <SotDX> only Tobriel
[16:05] <SotDX> (at least of your own)
[16:05] <SotDX> all seems still
[16:05] <SotDX> at last
[16:05] * Garathiel checks for other Engel, especially Raphaelites.
[16:05] <SotDX> so you land near him
[16:05] <SotDX> He stumbles toward you
[16:06] <SotDX> You see your own Raph, but he lies dead, ripped open by the tender mercies of the enemy
[16:06] <SotDX> Tobriel calls out to you...
[16:06] <SotDX> "Garathiel... something else...
[16:06] <SotDX> need to tell..."
[16:07] <SotDX> blood drips from his mouth
[16:07] * Garathiel starts to run, half stumbling towards the Michaelite. "What? Dear gabriel, don't you run around like that. Sit down! LIE down!"
[16:07] <SotDX> You do not hear the Dreamseed that flies down behind you
[16:07] <SotDX> running, you are focused on Tobriel
[16:08] <SotDX> you have no idea it has sets its dying act on plunging through you
[16:08] <SotDX> with its sharp proboscis
[16:08] <SotDX> and you would have been surely killed
[16:08] <SotDX> if not for Virael
[16:08] <SotDX> she sweeps down and knocks you out of the way
[16:08] <SotDX> as the beast flies through the empty air where you had been
[16:08] <SotDX> and plunges, in turn, through the weak form of Tobriel
[16:09] <SotDX> Tobriel falls
[16:09] <SotDX> the Dreamseed that went through him is brought down by a Urielite's bow
[16:09] <SotDX> and you find yourself with Virael on top of you
[16:09] <SotDX> watching Tobriel land on his back
[16:09] <SotDX> surely dead
[16:10] * Garathiel rolls over on the ground, disoriented for a moment. "What... get OFF me!" garathiel starts to push his sister off him, trying to reach the Michaelite.
[16:10] <SotDX> Virael, who is hurt herself, is pushed off easily
[16:10] <SotDX> You get up
[16:10] <SotDX> Tobriel is but a few feet from you
[16:11] <SotDX> on his back
[16:11] <SotDX> a large hole in the center of him
[16:11] <SotDX> his arm is outstreched
[16:11] <SotDX> his wings red with blood
[16:11] <SotDX> Can he still live?
[16:11] <SotDX> surely not!
[16:11] * Garathiel limps over to the spot. Only the idea of the prophecy runs through his head. Damned thing, why did that Ramielite ever tell him?
[16:12] <SotDX> He whispers
[16:12] <Garathiel> "Why did you even listen to her that day?"
[16:12] <SotDX> do you lean down to him?
[16:12] * Garathiel drops to his knees besides Tobriel. Whisper? So he is still alive. He leans over his head, carefully touching the undamaged shoulder.
[16:12] <SotDX> Virael behind you says:"I'm sorry... Garathiel... I was trying to save you..."
[16:13] <Garathiel> "Shush, goldie. Lie still, Okay?"
[16:13] * Garathiel looks around for Virael. Maybe she could help...
[16:13] <SotDX> Tobriel whispers:"they wil ask... you to steal... to sentence them to death...
[16:13] <SotDX> "do not let... them...
[16:13] <SotDX> "make you a monster"
[16:14] <Garathiel> "What?" Garathiel grabs Tobriel's remaining hand, staring at him. What?"
[16:14] <SotDX> and with that, his remaining eye on the unsavaged half of his face goes empty
[16:14] <SotDX> and his head falls to the side
[16:15] <SotDX> He is dead.
[16:15] <SotDX> Virael approaches:"Is he...?"
[16:15] * Garathiel kneels on the ground, looking around for help. "Great Archangels, anybody? Can somebody here help?" He tries to shout but can only whisper. Something is running down his face and he irritably wipes it away, still holding Tobriel's hand.
[16:16] <SotDX> And so it is. The Leader has fallen. And the warrior weeps for his passing.
[16:16] <SotDX> Virael approaches closer.
[16:17] <SotDX> Virael:"I will try to find a Raphaelite."
[16:17] <SotDX> She turns to search for one
[16:17] * Garathiel stays where he is, clasping the dead Michaelit's hand in his, shaking his head. "No... I think you do... not need to."
[16:17] <SotDX> Virael stops and turns back to you.
[16:18] <SotDX> Virael: "I am sorry. He was close to you."
[16:18] <SotDX> She kneels beside you.
[16:18] <Garathiel> "He wasn't. He was mad like a shithouse rat." Garathiel is now weeping openly without caring. "Always staring holes in the air..."
[16:19] <SotDX> Virael tries to comfort you, gently patting you on the shoulder
[16:19] <SotDX> Another Michaelite lands nearby
[16:20] <SotDX> He is badly wounded as well
[16:20] <SotDX> but bows all the same
[16:20] <SotDX> Mich:"We have won this day at great cost."
[16:21] * Garathiel leans forward, closing Tobriel's remaining eye before he slowly straightens. "That's one understatement", he says softly.
[16:21] <SotDX> Virael nods to her? Michaelite
[16:21] <SotDX> The Michaelite:"I do not believe any of the healers survived the battle. I will send forth for others to come."
[16:22] <SotDX> Virael:"That is wise. Many of us are seriously injured."
[16:22] <Garathiel> "We need to bury the fallen." Garathiel gently touches one of the white wings and then looks down at the gabrielitc dagger at Tobriel's belt.
[16:22] <SotDX> The blade is sheathed, but is wet with the black blood of many Dreamseed. He fought with the weapon without doubt.
[16:24] <SotDX> Do you take it?
[16:25] <Garathiel> "I will leave this with you, Tobriel. I gave it to you, as a gift." Garathiel gently places the cold hand on the Michaelite's chest and looks up, wiping his face. "Okay, we'll need to get together everyone who survived. I have no idea how severe the casualties might be." He looks at Virael. "Will you help me bury him?"
[16:25] <SotDX> Virael nods
[16:26] <SotDX> And the two Engel bury the fallen
[16:26] <SotDX> His last words a mystery
[16:26] <SotDX> one which burdened the thoughts and rest of Garathiel for some time
[16:27] <SotDX> though, as all things
[16:27] <SotDX> memory has a way of preserving itself
[16:27] <SotDX> the mind can adjust
[16:27] <SotDX> things can be forgotten
[16:27] <SotDX> or merely set aside
[16:27] <SotDX> the reunion with Virael was not one of joy
[16:27] <SotDX> but after that meeting,
[16:27] <SotDX> a bond was rebuilt between the two
[16:28] <SotDX> two more occasions did you have to spend time with her
[16:28] <SotDX> speak with her
[16:28] <SotDX> fight with her, as brother and sister
[16:28] <SotDX> We now find you nearly two years older
[16:28] <SotDX> in the Himmel of Roma, of all places
[16:29] <SotDX> In the heart of Michael's lands
[16:29] <SotDX> It has been some time since you last spoke to Virael
[16:29] <SotDX> or knew of where she kept herself
[16:30] <SotDX> You were resting, in a cellae to yourself
[16:30] <SotDX> a brief moment of respite in the hard life you had lived
[16:30] <SotDX> no mission waiting
[16:30] <SotDX> no Michaelite to give orders
[16:30] <SotDX> perhaps it was that which brought your memory back to the prophecy
[16:31] <SotDX> the strange dying words
[16:31] <SotDX> The door to your chamber opened with a swish and another Gabrielite entered
[16:31] <SotDX> one you knew
[16:31] <SotDX> a friend, if such exists in this world
[16:31] <SotDX> named Yathriel
[16:32] <SotDX> He nodded to you wish respect
[16:32] <SotDX> "Forgive my intrusion, brother Garathiel."
[16:32] * Garathiel looks up. "Not a problem. What is it?" He rises from the floor where he had knelt, trying to meditate.
[16:32] <SotDX> "I have... grave news."
[16:32] <SotDX> Yathriel shuts the door behind him.
[16:33] <Garathiel> "And that would be?"
[16:33] <SotDX> Yathriel looks at you with worry and concern on his face.
[16:34] <SotDX> "Perhaps it is wrong for me to come to you like this... but you are my friend...
[16:34] <SotDX> And I felt you should know."
[16:34] <SotDX> Whatever it is he wants to say, he also does not want to say it. It is plain on his face.
[16:35] <SotDX> He kneels down before you.
[16:35] <SotDX> "I have overheard something that I think would concern you, brother."
[16:35] * Garathiel frowns. "It looks like you're being caught between a rock and a hard place. Do you think this is a good place to confess?" He kneels down as well, facing Yathriel.
[16:35] <SotDX> "It is no confession I have, other than I have heard things I wish I had not."
[16:36] <Garathiel> "You know this place has ears?"
[16:36] <SotDX> Yathriel looks around... and nods.
[16:36] * Garathiel indicates the walls enclosing them and nods to the side, indicating open space.
[16:36] <SotDX> "Yes. Perhaps we should fly together?"
[16:36] <Garathiel> "Sounds like a plan. You pick the place."
[16:37] <SotDX> The two of you make your way to the flight platform
[16:37] * Garathiel gets up, gathers his flamesword around which is wound a worn votiv cloth.
[16:37] <SotDX> On the way, Uthiel, a high ranking Michaelite who said to be often at the ear of Ab Brindsi, greets you both
[16:38] * Garathiel courtly nods at Uthiel.
[16:38] <SotDX> Uthiel:"You are not leaving us, are you brother Garathiel? I think your martial presence does the young Engel good."
[16:39] * Garathiel smiles. "Just stretching wings. There is such a thing as sitting too long inside a cella."
[16:39] <SotDX> Yathriel seems discomforted by the questioning
[16:39] <SotDX> Uthiel nods. "I agree entirely. Good flight to you both."
[16:39] <Garathiel> "Thank you." Garathiel looks at Yathriel, one eyebrow raised in sielnt question.
[16:40] <SotDX> The two of you reach the edge of the platform and take to the air over Roma
[16:40] <SotDX> Yathriel leads you to one of the city walls
[16:40] <SotDX> and lands there
[16:40] <SotDX> awaiting you
[16:41] <SotDX> to the east the strange edifice of the Raguelite Arx sits
[16:41] <SotDX> like some odd half-forgotten memory of steel and strangeness
[16:41] * Garathiel lands besides Yathriel, pushing some lose reddish hair out of his eyes. "Now, what is it? And why did you flinch around Uthiel as if he would bite off your nose any second?"
[16:41] <SotDX> Yathriel sighs
[16:42] <SotDX> "I am unused to hiding things. It was something Uthiel said that I overheard, brother."
[16:42] <SotDX> Yathriel is obviously uncomfortable
[16:42] <Garathiel> "Ah?" Garathiels Eyebrows rise and he starts to grin. "Getting the practice, are we?"
[16:42] <SotDX> Yathriel shakes his head and laughs
[16:42] <Garathiel> "You've been around Michaelites too long."
[16:43] <SotDX> Yath:"I have missed you. Your presence does me well, though I fear what I will relate to you will not do you well..."
[16:43] * Garathiel takes a seat on a niche in the wall and starts to preen his wings.
[16:43] <SotDX> Yath sighs again
[16:43] <SotDX> "Its about Virael."
[16:43] <SotDX> At her name your skin tingles
[16:43] <Garathiel> Garathiels hands pause over some feathers and he looks up.
[16:43] <SotDX> "Something has happened. Something bad."
[16:44] <Garathiel> "How bad?"
[16:44] <SotDX> Yathriel looks away, and swallows.
[16:44] <SotDX> "I'm sorry to have to be the one to tell you of this, brother."
[16:44] <Garathiel> "What is it?"
[16:44] * Garathiel speaks softly, a keel between thumb and index finger.
[16:44] <SotDX> "She has... betrayed the church... or so they say."
[16:45] <Garathiel> "Who said such a thing?"
[16:45] <SotDX> Yath steps back at your obvious anger
[16:45] <SotDX> "Brother... please..."
[16:45] * Garathiel lets go of his wing, feeling strange inside. Cold and uncomfortable. His hands close around the stone rim of the wall.
[16:46] <SotDX> "As I said, I overheard a discussion about our sister. It seems she has helped a heretic traitor escape and is protecting him.
[16:46] <SotDX> She is considered a traitor and renegade herself now. I believe...
[16:46] <SotDX> "
[16:46] <SotDX> He swallows
[16:46] <Garathiel> "Is she indeed."
[16:46] <SotDX> "I believe forces have been sent after them both."
[16:47] * Garathiel still sounds calm and composed, but he does not move a feather.
[16:47] <SotDX> "I do not know who this traitor is. What I overheard was a discussion between Uthiel and another...
[16:47] <SotDX> and what they said was it was being 'taken care of', and would be resolved soon."
[16:47] <Garathiel> "I told her NOT to get involved, dammit!" Garathiel suddenly roars.
[16:47] <SotDX> Yath almost stumbles off the wall, but catches his balance
[16:48] <SotDX> Yath swallows again, trying to speak
[16:48] * Garathiel furiously flaps his wings, stretches and folds them again. "I'm... sorry." He jumps off the niche, pacing restlessly.
[16:48] <SotDX> "Perhaps... if you go to her... before anything more happens? Perhaps you could stop this from..."
[16:49] <SotDX> Yath stops and just looks at you.
[16:49] <Garathiel> "WHEN exactly did you hear that?"
[16:49] <SotDX> "Only an hour before."
[16:49] <Garathiel> "And where will she be? Do you know where?"
[16:49] <SotDX> Yath nods...
[16:49] <Garathiel> "Show me. Now."
[16:49] <SotDX> "Is it wise we both go?"
[16:50] <SotDX> "I can tell you directions to where the two speaking believed her to be."
[16:50] <Garathiel> "You stay behind, just tell me where I will find her. And you never told me that, understood?"
[16:50] <SotDX> Yath nods
[16:50] <SotDX> "Brother, what will you do when you find her?"
[16:50] <Garathiel> "I will bring her back, even if I will have to drag her back by her bloody ears..."
[16:51] <SotDX> Yath nods, and looks at the setting sun. It will be dark soon. Dark outside... dark inside.
[16:51] * Garathiel is talking himself into a rage to drown the cold sensation inside him.
[16:51] <SotDX> Yath tells you where they are expected to be
[16:51] <SotDX> in the northern part of Michael's lands
[16:51] <SotDX> He knows nothing of who the heretic is
[16:51] * Garathiel does not care for the heretic.
[16:51] <SotDX> Yath finishes
[16:52] <SotDX> Yath:"I wish speed and blessings, brother.
[16:52] <SotDX> Be careful."
[16:52] <Garathiel> "I thank you. For all you know we separated after this short trip and you know nothing of my whereabouts or when I plan to return. Understood?"
[16:52] <SotDX> Yath nods, swallowing, afraid for you and his sister.
[16:53] * Garathiel simply nods and takes flight from the top of the wall, heading for the direction where he hopes to find his sister.
[16:53] <SotDX> You fly for hours
[16:53] <SotDX> the sun long since set
[16:53] <SotDX> it is hard to find the landmarks he gave you
[16:53] <SotDX> in the dark of night
[16:53] <SotDX> but still you fly
[16:53] <SotDX> you are set to find her
[16:54] <SotDX> no deviation can be considered
[16:54] <SotDX> you will bring her back to the light
[16:54] <SotDX> Landing atop a high ridge, you seen in the distance a faint light before a cave some distance down
[16:54] <SotDX> Your words echo in your ears
[16:54] <SotDX> "Don;t get involved."
[16:55] <SotDX> For a moment, you feel a tingling in the back of your neck
[16:55] <SotDX> looking around, you think you glimpse movement in the night sky, but then see nothing
[16:55] <SotDX> you are upset
[16:56] <SotDX> and unless you are mistaken, your quarry awaits you at the cave below
[16:56] <SotDX> hiding
[16:56] <SotDX> (though not well)
[16:57] <SotDX> (well?)
[16:57] <Garathiel> 'I only have one chance for this... damn her.' Garathiel heads downward, towards the mouth of the cave, making an honest attempt to be quiet not to alarm Virael before he has had a chance to get near the opening.
[16:58] <SotDX> Your stealth, though limited by your need for speed and upset, it still effective
[16:58] <SotDX> you reach the entrance to the cave
[16:58] <SotDX> without making much of any sound
[16:58] <SotDX> the is a small fire burning
[16:58] <SotDX> for warmth
[16:58] <SotDX> Virael is inside the mouth of the cave
[16:58] <SotDX> she is sitting
[16:58] <SotDX> in meditation
[16:59] <SotDX> she has not noticed you yet
[16:59] <SotDX> your sword is sheathed, is it not?
[16:59] * Garathiel pauses at the entrance, listening. How many people are inside, or is it just her and that heretic? Garathiel's hand rests on the hilt of his still sheathed sword. He is ready to dispose of the man if that is the only solution to this problem.
[17:00] <SotDX> you hear the sound of something scratching inside, almost... almost as if someone writing, but with rock?
[17:01] * Garathiel approaches further, slowly, silently unsheathing his sword without making a sound - or at least trying to. He wants to take Virael by surprise, disarm her if possible. The man can be dealt with later.
[17:01] <SotDX> Virael opens her eyes
[17:01] <SotDX> She seems startled to see you approaching
[17:01] <SotDX> "Garathiel?"
[17:01] <SotDX> She stands up, seemingly relieved to see you
[17:02] * Garathiel loses no time, attacks her and tries to disarm her. For now, she is just an opponent, and one that could prove dangerous. he tries to strip off her weapons.
[17:02] <SotDX> She, surprising, lets you
[17:02] <SotDX> you take her sword
[17:02] <SotDX> and short blade
[17:02] <SotDX> she stands there, unarmed
[17:02] <SotDX> without resisting
[17:03] <SotDX> Virael:"I understand... you think I am an enemy."
[17:03] <Garathiel> "Let's make this quick. You come back with me freely or i'll take you back."
[17:03] * Garathiel is not up to a discussion and wants this settled quickly.
[17:03] <SotDX> Virael:"Perhaps I am lucky you did not just kill me."
[17:03] <Garathiel> "Perhaps."
[17:03] * Garathiel resists the urge to simply slap her.
[17:03] <SotDX> Virael nods, and laughs
[17:04] <SotDX> Virael:"Trust me. You will understand. I am not your enemy."
[17:04] <Garathiel> "I don't want or need to understand anything. You are coming back with me right now."
[17:04] <SotDX> You still hear the scratching deeper in the tunnel. There is a second light source further in.
[17:04] <SotDX> Virael listens, and considers
[17:04] <SotDX> she seems ok
[17:04] <SotDX> not strange, off, or distant
[17:04] <SotDX> she seems her normal self
[17:05] <SotDX> Virael:"I will agree to come with you, on one condition. You have to speak to him."
[17:05] <Garathiel> "I will do no such thing." Garathiel holds up Virael's flame sword. He is a bit shocked that she was disarmed this easily, even separated from the second half of her soul - her sword.
[17:06] <SotDX> Virael sighs
[17:07] <SotDX> Virael: "Please... you do not understand what is happening here. The man inside the cave, Valerius, he is an aid to the Constistory.
[17:07] <SotDX> He left after learning of something... something very disturbing.
[17:07] <SotDX> You need to hear this.
[17:07] <SotDX> Please."
[17:07] <SotDX> Virael looks at you with imploring eyes. She seems completely herself, unaffected by any charm or influence. And she seems completely serious.
[17:08] <SotDX> "If you ever cared for me, please... just listen to what he tells you."
[17:08] <Garathiel> "I need to hear nothing. But YOU need to hear that they'll be sending someone after you soon. The only way to mollify them is to return now on your own. And whatever means it takes to make you return - I'm prepared to spank you like a spoiled brat." Garathiel leans forward, staring at the smaller Gabrielite with anger in his eyes.
[17:08] <SotDX> Virael does not flinch or back down.
[17:09] <SotDX> "All I ask is you listen to him for a moment. If you think he is a liar or mad, then so be it. But listen to him.
[17:09] <SotDX> What he told me is why I am here.
[17:09] <SotDX> They tried to kill him."
[17:09] <Garathiel> "He's a heretic. Now come." Garathiel grabs the back of Virael's skirt and starts to drag her after himself. If she will not fly, she will walk. One way or the other, she will go.
[17:10] <Garathiel> "I leave him here, as a favor. He can see what becomes of him all on his own. Now go."
[17:10] <SotDX> She sweeps your leg, knocking you off balance, and steps back
[17:10] <SotDX> "No. I will not leave him until you hear what he has to say."
[17:10] <SotDX> "I am no child."
[17:11] <SotDX> Her eyes are firm and unyielding, a fire you placed there with your own teaching many years past.
[17:11] * Garathiel regains his balance, narrowing his eyes. "So you're really serious about this, are you? No, you're no child. But acting like one. You didn't listen to me once. You won't listen now And I won't listen to you or him." Garathiel has started to raise his voice, backing away from Virael, ready to take flight with her weapons.
[17:12] <SotDX> "Are you such a fool that you turn away again from the truth? Inside this cave is a man who learned something so disturbing about our Church he has taken to running for his life. He wants to tell those who will listen. If you are so stupid and blind
[17:12] <SotDX> to walk away from that...
[17:12] <SotDX> Then you are not the Engel I once knew."
[17:13] <SotDX> She sighs, shaking her head
[17:13] <SotDX> Tobriel's words enter your mind
[17:13] <SotDX> Don't let them turn you into a monster
[17:13] <SotDX> Madness!
[17:14] <Garathiel> "May be I am not the Engel I once knew. That might be true. We all change." Garathiel lifts off the ground. He could fight her, listen to what the man has to say. But something tells him it is no use. A monster? This isn#t about monsters, this is about a stupid Engel who does not know where real trouble starts.
[17:14] <SotDX> Virael pulls you back
[17:15] <SotDX> Virael:"What is wrong with you?"
[17:15] <SotDX> "Do you think I'm under the control of the Tempter? That I have lost the use of my senses?"
[17:16] <SotDX> "You come here to take my weapons and leave me defenseless when other blind and stupid Engel will come to kill that which their masters do not want to be known?"
[17:16] <Garathiel> "What is wrong with YOU?" He spits the words into her face, slapping aside her hands. "Do you think I want to watch them come for you?" Tobriel's words echo through his mind. "I don't care what it is with you. I don't want to lose you, you silly little thing!" He had started to shout again.
[17:16] <SotDX> Virael starts to cry
[17:17] <SotDX> Virael:"And I don't want to be lost. But I have to follow what is right. The High put this child in my path for a reason, and if it is his will for me to protect him while I can... then so be it.
[17:17] <SotDX> "Please... just listen to him for one moment. Then, if you still want me to come with you... or if you want to kill us both...
[17:17] <SotDX> I will not resist."
[17:17] <SotDX> "Give me this."
[17:17] <SotDX> "For what we once were."
[17:19] * Garathiel is running out of arguments and stands, staring at the mouth of the cave. "F´Great Archangels, Virael... you ask something of me that I cannot give. Ask me to forget I saw you here, that would be easier. But I will not listen to any bedtime story or great lie or truth."
[17:19] <SotDX> "What Valerius knows... it’s insidious. For us to consider doing such to a foreign land..."
[17:20] <SotDX> The words hit you like an electric shock
[17:20] <SotDX> What was it that Tobriel had said
[17:20] <SotDX> something about a foreign land, a distant land?
[17:20] <SotDX> "Please..."
[17:20] <SotDX> She pulls you into the cave
[17:20] <SotDX> "I'll stand watch."
[17:21] <Garathiel> "Foreign land?" Garathiel's hand drops to the worn cloth around his sword's scabbard. The one he received for the battle that cost Tobriel's life.
[17:22] <Garathiel> "Sure as hell you will", he mumbles, feeling himself being shoved into the direction of the cave. "And give a serious thought about what you want to tell the others when they arrive here in the meantime." He hands her back her sword, but only that. He knows how he himself feels when he is separated from his own for a time.
[17:22] <SotDX> She takes it, thanking you. She turns to watch the black skies above
[17:22] <SotDX> So you walk further into the cave?
[17:23] <Garathiel> 'What am I doing here?' Garathiel walks forward, into the cave and ducks not to hit the low ceiling. 'This is useless talk...'
[17:23] <SotDX> ahead of you is a man
[17:23] <SotDX> he is writing on the walls of the cave
[17:23] <SotDX> with some chalk
[17:23] <SotDX> scritching away
[17:23] <SotDX> his head is bandaged
[17:23] <SotDX> it is obvious he has a bad head wound
[17:24] <SotDX> the wrappings are bloody
[17:24] <SotDX> something is strange about the writing on the wall
[17:24] <SotDX> the lantern beside him illuminates it
[17:24] <SotDX> while you can not read any writing
[17:24] <SotDX> the characters look very strange, unlike the Latin you have seen your Ramielite friends scribble
[17:24] <SotDX> and unlike the other symbols you have witnessed in your life
[17:25] <SotDX> he is writing something
[17:25] <SotDX> and seems to be pondering what he is writing
[17:25] <SotDX> he is mumbling to himself
[17:25] * Garathiel is more concerned of getting this over with than any scribbling on walls and says, "Well, here I am. She said you should tell me some shattering news, so make it short." He sounds brisk, cold.
[17:25] <SotDX> "and... but that would mean... no... how could they... but if instead..."
[17:25] <SotDX> The man turns to you, unfazed
[17:25] <SotDX> "Hello."
[17:26] <SotDX> He then turns back to his writing
[17:26] <SotDX> Varelius: "You are not the Engel outside. You are a different Engel."
[17:26] <SotDX> He rubs his wounded head
[17:27] <SotDX> He stops writing for a second
[17:27] <SotDX> It seems his wound has perhaps confused him some
[17:27] * Garathiel feels uncomfortable in the cave, with his wings folded so close they hurt Not much space in here. After the curt greeting and the man turning back he shrugs and turns to leave the cave again. Then he pauses. "Great notice. No, I'm not her. But if you have nothing to say, fine with me."
[17:27] <SotDX> "Wait..."
[17:27] <SotDX> He looks back at you
[17:27] <SotDX> his eyes are somewhat unfocused
[17:27] <SotDX> unless you are mistaken
[17:27] * Garathiel stops, one foot half in the air. His patience is wearing thin.
[17:27] <SotDX> he is gravely injured
[17:28] <SotDX> perhaps he is concussed, or worse
[17:28] <SotDX> His death may come regardless of outside intervention
[17:28] <SotDX> "You want to know what I learned..."
[17:28] <SotDX> "She sent you back here..."
[17:28] <SotDX> He nods to himself
[17:28] <SotDX> "That... that is why you are here..."
[17:28] <Garathiel> "Yes. Short summary." Garathiel finds a place for himself to sit without bruising his wings and glowers at the man.
[17:29] <SotDX> He mutters to himself again, looks at his wall, corrects a strange mark, and then comes over closer to you
[17:29] <SotDX> "Yes... yes...I see..."
[17:29] <SotDX> "Forgive me if I seem confused..."
[17:29] <SotDX> He rubs his eyes
[17:30] <SotDX> "I was injured in my escape from Roma"
[17:30] <SotDX> "They want me dead... it seems."
[17:30] * Garathiel says nothing but starts to drum his fingertips on the scabbard. The noise should remind the old man that he, indeed, has a gabrielite in front of him.
[17:30] <SotDX> "I don't think most of the Constitory even know...
[17:30] <SotDX> "What he is planning..."
[17:31] <SotDX> He stops, and looks at your fingers thrumming on the scabbard
[17:31] <SotDX> "That is a nice rhythm..."
[17:31] <SotDX> it seems you had distracted him
[17:31] <Garathiel> "Would you come to the point, for the love of all the Archangels?"
[17:31] <SotDX> He nods, and steps back, gathering himself
[17:31] * Garathiel is absolutely ready to explode.
[17:31] <SotDX> "It all started almost a hundred years ago based on what he learned from the defector...
[17:32] <SotDX> And then...
[17:32] <SotDX> He decided if it was true, he wanted it for himself.
[17:32] <SotDX> He is afraid! Can you believe that? He... of all people..."
[17:32] <Garathiel> "If WHAT is true? And who is He?"
[17:32] <SotDX> "He has spies over there now searching, learning their ways.
[17:32] * Garathiel tries to stay calm but feels his self control slipping.
[17:33] <SotDX> The next step is to send a group there to actually achieve the goal."
[17:33] <SotDX> He stops, and looks at you confused.
[17:33] * Garathiel gets up abruptly, banging his head on the ceiling and crossing his eyes in pain. Now, that wasn't good...
[17:33] <SotDX> "You don't know who he is?"
[17:33] <SotDX> "But didn't I say?"
[17:33] <Garathiel> "... " *gasp*
[17:33] <SotDX> He honestly seems to think he already told you
[17:34] <Garathiel> "... n-no... Get to the point, damn you!" Garathiel gently touches his head and winces back.
[17:34] <SotDX> "Be careful of the head. I've been told that head injuries can do murder to your concentration..."
[17:34] <SotDX> He grins
[17:34] <SotDX> He starts again
[17:34] <Garathiel> "TELL ME WHO!" Garathiel roars.
[17:35] <SotDX> "Well, I'll tell you then!"
[17:35] <SotDX> HE jumps backs frightened
[17:35] <Garathiel> That was not a very smart idea, because his head starts to hurt in consequence.
[17:35] <SotDX> "He is the Pontifex Maximus Petrus Secundus himself!"
[17:35] <SotDX> "It is all his plan."
[17:35] <Garathiel> "GREAT!" Garathiels eyes start to water. "Now, what is this all about now?"
[17:36] <SotDX> "He is willing to sacrifice them all..."
[17:36] * Garathiel emits a low growling sound, grabbing one of his daggers.
[17:36] <SotDX> And you hear the sound of Virael's sword lighting
[17:36] <Garathiel> "I swear, old man, if you don't get to the point right away, i'll curve you up to little pieces for the ferrets!"
[17:36] <SotDX> someone far back at the entrance of the cave
[17:37] <SotDX> she shouts : "Garathiel... we are not alone!"
[17:37] * Garathiel whips out a dagger, curses and shoves aside the man. "be quiet, you. useless old scribbler." He hurries to the front of the cave, unsheathing the sword with the other hand.
[17:38] <SotDX> As you hurry down the cave something flashes past you at great speed, some kind of quarrel
[17:38] <SotDX> you hear the Varelius shout at in pain as it hits him
[17:38] <SotDX> turning back
[17:38] <SotDX> you see him go over backwards with a strange black projectile in his chest
[17:38] <SotDX> unlike any you have seen before
[17:38] <SotDX> not an arrow!
[17:39] <SotDX> pulling out your sword yet?
[17:39] <Garathiel> "What the..." Garathiel lights his own sword, working his way to the entrance. "Virael!" No use to be quiet now.
[17:40] <SotDX> You see ahead of your Virael's sword wink out (why would she extinguish it now?)
[17:40] <SotDX> there are several dark forms around her, but with wings
[17:40] <SotDX> even in the dim light, its hard to make out their features
[17:40] <SotDX> your sword is still lit, and you are still approaching
[17:40] * Garathiel draws a deep breath, extinguishing his own weapon and wedging himself out of the cave. The darkness does not help to recognize the other Engel.
[17:41] <SotDX> (hold up... you are still in the cave... they are at the mouth of the cave)
[17:41] <Garathiel> (OK)
[17:41] <SotDX> (np)
[17:41] <SotDX> (so do you still turn off your sword?)
[17:41] <Garathiel> (yes)
[17:42] <SotDX> Virael shouts to you from the dark ahead: "Stay back. This is between me and them.
[17:42] <SotDX> I will die for my actions if it must be that way. You need not suffer the same fate."
[17:42] <SotDX> You still can't tell what Engel are ahead
[17:42] <SotDX> Are you still approaching them?
[17:43] <Garathiel> "Don't be silly!" Garathiel squints, trying to see what is happening. But his head is swimming from the hit. Even with his signum burning and working under his skin he feels slightly nauseated.
[17:44] <SotDX> So, are you still approaching?
[17:44] <Garathiel> (slowly, yes. A bit staggering, but not out of the cave yet)
[17:44] <SotDX> At the mouth of the cave
[17:44] <SotDX> the Engel around her
[17:44] <SotDX> you hear a whispered voice
[17:44] <SotDX> a strange whispered voice
[17:45] <SotDX> "You have been ordered destroyed. Thus you will be. Do not resist, or it will be more painful."
[17:45] <SotDX> What is going on?
[17:45] <SotDX> You hear Virael respond
[17:46] <SotDX> "I will not die without fighting. I am a Gabrielite. You will die trying to end me!"
[17:46] <SotDX> Are you running the last of the distance?
[17:46] <SotDX> you hear the sound of fighting
[17:46] <Garathiel> Destroyed? Garathiel approaches further, cursing his own condition. "Wait! This is a mistake!" he shouts.
[17:46] <SotDX> Do you light your sword?
[17:48] <Garathiel> Unsure what to do Garathiel holds back. If he lights his sword, they will attack him as well on the basis of a simple misunderstanding. So he just tries to reach Virael, knock her down or something like that. With his foggy brain it is a bit hard to think straight.
[17:48] <SotDX> I'm unclear... are you therefore approaching close or holding back?
[17:49] <Garathiel> Coming closer but unsure what to do.
[17:49] <SotDX> One of the dark winged forms approaches
[17:49] <SotDX> it is hairless, you can tell, from the light behind it and the profile
[17:49] <SotDX> it raises its hands up to stop you
[17:49] <SotDX> and in a whispered voice speaks
[17:50] <SotDX> "Stand back... Engel... you are not our chosen prey this night. Interfere, and you will be ended."
[17:50] <SotDX> beyond this Engel? Virael fights for her life
[17:50] <SotDX> you can vaguely see her fighting
[17:50] <Garathiel> Garathiel stops. "Look, can we simply discuss this out in the open?" He slowly sheathes his sword, trembling from shock as he sees the wings and the bald head. What is this?
[17:51] <SotDX> one of the forms outside slashes her on the side and she screams out
[17:51] <SotDX> she knocks it back and it gets near the fire
[17:51] <SotDX> and you can see it clearer
[17:51] <SotDX> it is black all over
[17:51] <SotDX> faint lines of scriptum unlike any you have seen
[17:51] <SotDX> hairless
[17:51] <SotDX> naked
[17:51] <SotDX> long taloned fingers
[17:51] <SotDX> empty white eyes
[17:51] <SotDX> sharp teeth
[17:52] <SotDX> another of them slashes Virael's arm
[17:52] <SotDX> why is her sword not lit?
[17:52] <SotDX> she fights with it as just a blade
[17:52] <SotDX> and she seems weak
[17:52] <SotDX> slow
[17:52] <SotDX> not unlike you
[17:52] <SotDX> is your condition only from hitting your head
[17:52] <SotDX> or something more?
[17:53] <Garathiel> "What are you doing?" Garathiel moves towards Virael, suddenly unsheathing his sword. He tries to light the sword to aid her, to draw this... thing away from her.
[17:53] <SotDX> one of the creatures is still in front of you, blocking your way
[17:53] <SotDX> your sword tries to light, but will not
[17:53] <SotDX> you feel weak
[17:53] <SotDX> your strength gone
[17:53] <SotDX> the whispered voice comes again
[17:54] * Garathiel curses, trying to slash the one... thing in front of him. But the blade suddenly feels heavy in his hands. Something is not right here. "Virael!"
[17:54] <SotDX> "you are not who we were sent to destroy. Sleep now... Engel."
[17:54] <SotDX> Your head is heavy
[17:54] <SotDX> You see Virael get cut across the neck by one of the Dark Engel
[17:54] <SotDX> and another bite her as they pull her down
[17:55] <SotDX> The one before you knocks the sword from your weak limbs
[17:55] <SotDX> "Sleep!"
[17:55] <SotDX> It knocks you back with incredible strength into a wall and all goes dark
[17:55] * Garathiel feels himself crumbling to the ground. An odd sensation.
[17:55] <Garathiel> And one last thought: 'No, she didn't manage to not get involved... never...'
[17:56] <SotDX> Sweet darkness takes you
[17:56] <SotDX> You awaken an unknown time later
[17:56] <SotDX> your head hurts
[17:56] <SotDX> your muscles ache
[17:56] <SotDX> your are cold
[17:56] <SotDX> and... alone
[17:56] <SotDX> the cave is empty
[17:56] <SotDX> the writing gone
[17:56] <SotDX> the body of the escaped Monach is gone
[17:57] <SotDX> and... no sign of Virael
[17:57] <SotDX> the mouth of the cave has only the remains of the fire burned out
[17:57] <SotDX> You still have her dagger
[17:57] <SotDX> the one you took from her
[17:57] <SotDX> and did not give back
[17:57] <SotDX> What were those things?
[17:58] * Garathiel tries to get to his feet, weak and shaky. Those things.. he had heard rumors in Roma about black winged shadows seen in moonless nights...
[17:58] <SotDX> And those rumors... could they be true?
[17:58] <SotDX> There is nothing left for you here.
[17:58] <SotDX> Do you return to Roma?
[17:59] <SotDX> Or wait here for a time?
[17:59] <SotDX> The sun is in the sky now
[17:59] <Garathiel> Until now he had believed they were all but a myth born of the fear of heretics. But he had seen them. Some cross of an Engel and something else. And with nothing else to fight for here, or to seek, he gathered his weapons, sheathed Viraels dagger and headed back for Roma in a daze.
[17:59] <SotDX> No one spoke to you of this
[17:59] <Garathiel> Hopefully Yathriel would be all right. This all felt like a nightmare.
[17:59] <SotDX> no quiet attack in the night
[17:59] <SotDX> no mention
[18:00] <SotDX> Uthiel, if he knew anything, said nothing
[18:00] <SotDX> Yathriel looked at you with mad wonder when you returned, but did not ask
[18:00] <SotDX> Would you tell him?
[18:00] <SotDX> Would you ever speak of this?
[18:00] <Garathiel> No use of telling him. No one would believe this mad tale about biting black Engel.

[18:01] <Garathiel> He simply said to Yathiel that she had been gone and he had been unable to find her.

[18:01] <SotDX> Yathiel had been displeased... but did not press. He sensed a feeling of loss from you
[18:01] <SotDX> And you were left, there in the Himmel, feeling alone
[18:01] <SotDX> more questions
[18:02] <SotDX> dark suggestions
[18:02] <SotDX> You wondered if black things would come for you some night?
[18:02] <SotDX> Was Virael now in Heaven, enjoying the rewards an Engel deserved?
[18:02] <SotDX> Or...
[18:03] <SotDX> To horrible to think.
[18:03] <Garathiel> They had said 'not this night'. Then, which other...?
[18:03] <SotDX> And so a long and terrible month passed.
[18:03] <Garathiel> He wasn't even sure if she really was... gone or dead or something else. It could have almost been a dream, yes?
[18:03] <SotDX> Until one day, a messenger at your door informed you
[18:04] <SotDX> your were needed as part of a new Fellowship
[18:04] <SotDX> and you learned that it would be for a trip
[18:04] <SotDX> to a land
[18:04] <SotDX> most foreign
[18:04] <SotDX>

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