< Elijah > ~Elijah finds himself outside, in front of what seems like a simplified form of the Command Center. He looks around confused. He says out loud~ What is going on? ~He notices a figure leaned up against an outcrop of rocks nearby. There seems to be a light flashing, but it is too hard to tell at this distance. He does not hear Elijah. Elijah watches the light carefully, trying to figure out what it is. He moves towards the figure~
< Seth > ~Seth is manipulating a ball of light, moving it between his hands as if juggling. Yet the light also contorts at certain motions of his hands. His full attention seems to be on the object, doesn’t appear to notice Elijah~
< Elijah > ~Elijah watches the figure. Wondering how he is making the ball of light. He watches the ball go back and forth. Suddenly, Elijah sneezes~ Haaacchhhoooo!!!!!
< Seth > ~The ball of dark-colored light flashed and vanished as Seth’s concentration broke. He looks up startled~ Who are you?
< Elijah > ~Looks at him cautiously~ And why should I tell you who I am if I don’t even know who you are? Why should I trust you?
< Seth > ~Looks at him in silence for a moment~ I’d say you are the one who should reveal identity first. ~Stands up to face him~
< Elijah > ~Elijah meets Seth’s stare~ And why is that?
< Seth > ~Seth holds his stance; his eyes narrow slightly as if he suspects something~ Because how do I know that you aren’t the enemy.
< Elijah > ~Doesn’t move~ And how do I know that I can trust you?
< Seth > You don’t. Blind faith is all you have.
< Elijah > ~He thinks for a moment. Then looks around, sees nobody else~ Well…. I guess since it seems that you’re the only one around, and then I have no choice. My name is Elijah, and I’ve seemed to have stepped through a time hole accidentally.
< Seth > Hmmm… interesting case. Never heard of one before. Name’s Seth.
< Elijah > Well, to tell you the truth I’d never seen anything like you were doing before. The thing with the light ball thingy. ~Stops for a second and then says~ Seth, that name sounds familiar… Where have I heard that before? ~He thinks about it for a few seconds~
< Seth > Many places you could have heard of me. ~The ball reappears in his hand~ My teacher was quite well known.
< Elijah > ~Something clicks inside his head~ Darrin…
< Seth > I studied under him for a while. Taught me everything I know. ~Smiles slightly and tosses the “ball” up and catches it manually~
< Elijah > From what I understand… or I guess I should say “thought” that’s not exactly something to be proud of.
< Seth > Now that depends on whom you ask. He was a good teacher, but some of his ideas are a bit flawed you might say.
< Elijah > ~Remembers what each of his teachers have said~ Yes, that’s what I have heard. My first teacher hated him with a passion. Well, my new teacher, the one I just started with has a slightly different opinion. ~Grins slightly~
< Seth > Oh? May I inquiry who this teacher is?
< Elijah > Which one? They both were and are quite known for their time.
< Seth > Them both then.
< Elijah > Well my first teacher you might know ~pauses~ That’s were I remember your name. Her name was Sarah. My new teacher, must remain a secret to the people of my time and I dare not speak his name. In fact my mother would kill me if she knew if I had anything to do with this guy.
< Seth > Sarah. I know her as you know obviously. Good teacher, or at least she has the potential now. From knowing that, your second teacher must be of the opposite kind. ~Looks at him carefully~ Somehow connected to Darrin, but I don’t see how. Darrin had no partners.
< Elijah > ~Smiles~ No, but one day he might work for a higher source.
< Seth > ~Looks at him in disbelief~ Darrin? Work for someone? ~Laughs~ Either we are talking about two different people, ~looks at him coolly~ or your views are gravely misshapen.
< Elijah > No, it’s true my mother and aunt are trying to defeat them both.
< Seth > Then why are you joining this being whoever it is if you know they will be defeated?
< Elijah > But who says that they will be defeated. They are quite stronger than my family. ~Laughs evilly~
< Seth > Oh the pitfalls of the naïve. Darrin underestimated her once. Thought he could control her. I see past this. Cougar and I are more alike than she cares to admit. Your judgment could prove lethal.
< Elijah > I have not judged anything yet. I have yet to make a decision. Right know I am trying to find me. Find truly were I belong. ~Has somewhat of a lost look on his face~
< Seth > I see. Take it from one who knows, your first teacher, aunt and mother have been through it as well. From the source of magic I sense from you, you are dealing with powerful magic. Take heed from relatives for they do know what will or could come. But then, why would you listen to me? Some warrior who disobeyed his master, who is hunted down by those he knows because of what he is, and despised by the main or older warriors of Light to the point of death.
< Elijah > ~Looks more confused than ever~ yes, I know that turning against the light can cause me harm… but… I just don’t know… I just feel lost… I feel that I’m not where I should be.
< Seth > Welcome to the joys of neutrality! I fit not with either. Let them fight their battles and tell their legends. The dark tell of the one, the light tell of the being who will come and save all from the dark shadow known as evil.
< Elijah > ~Looks startled~ Soooo… your saying just let them be. Not to do anything?
< Seth > That’s my plan. Unless of course a favor is owed to one side or the other. Just because you’re neutral doesn’t mean you have to sit at the sidelines. Just means that you answer to nobody.
< Elijah > ~Thinks about it for a moment~ What if they expect you to be on one side, because that was the life you were born into?
< Seth > ~Shrugs~ Some will understand even if they never show it. Others will not, one should not be out to please others, at least not in this case.
< Elijah > Sarah, she would have understood me. She always understood me. But she disappeared shortly after my father and two sisters. My mother says that evil killed them. That’s when my life changed and I started questioning my life. ~Looks sad~
< Seth > That I cannot help you with. Other than to say you’d be surprised by what Coug believes. Her “projected” image is different than the true form.
< Elijah > ~Just stares at Seth~
< Seth > ~Looks at him curiously, begins manipulating the ball of dark light with magic again~ What? Did you not comprehend or nothing to add. I did nothing, no mind games, yet ~adds with a sly smile~
< Elijah > I just didn’t have anything to say… plus I’m trying to compute everything you are saying.
< Seth > Ah I see. ~The ball floats side to side with no motion in Seth’s hands~
< Elijah > ~His attention goes to the ball of light~ How do you do that? The only magic I’ve been around is Sarah’s but I was told I was too young to learn it.
< Seth > Light, the illusionary, mind games or mind illusions are my thing. ~Smiles and spins the ball rapidly with a flick of his wrist~ I just do what comes naturally or from my teachings. I grew up in a non-magic believing part of the country. Thus I was bound for trouble.
< Elijah > Those times have changed. Where I’m from magic is an everyday thing, but as my mother keeps telling me, not for us. But what does she know about me?
< Seth > She doesn’t let you do magic?
< Elijah > In a way… I guess you could say that. She doesn’t use magic; she believes it is the lazy man’s way. She “fights” for what she believes in. And she believes that I should be like her. She keeps telling me that I can learn magic when I’m older like I’m some little kid.
< Seth > Have you approached Cougar about it? Or has she retired from teaching after Zach? ~Chuckles slightly~
< Elijah > My aunt wouldn’t understand and wouldn’t want to mess with my problems. But I guess it is the same with her, I do not understand her.
< Seth > No one understands her. But try and be surprised what she’ll do. She has good teachings from both teachers.
< Elijah > Maybe, I will do that if I ever return.
< Seth > ~Tosses the ball to him~
< Elijah > ~Tries to catch it but when it touches his hands it disappears~ Hey!
< Seth > No worries, it’s still there. I see it hovering right in front of you. Move your hand forward slightly and you’ll feel warmth but no solid.
< Elijah > ~Moves his hand forward tell he feels a warm feeling. He tries to focus on it. He moves it toward him. He can see it again. He tosses it to the other hand~ Hey, this is cool. ~Brings it up to his face to look at it closer~
< Seth > Yeah. ~Smiles~ don’t drop it, that’s your ticket home.
< Elijah > ~He holds it in his hand~ what? This can take me home?
< Seth > ~The light flickered brightly and changed color to a silvery light~ Of course he can.
< Elijah > ~Looks startled~ this is a he? ~Looks closer at the light~
< Light > ~The light trembles then it speaks in a melodic voice~ Hi! I’m Stalm!
< Elijah > AHHHHH!!!!!! ~Almost drops him, but quickly catches it not wanting to risk his chance of getting back~
< Stalm > No need to hang onto me now. I have what I need to send you back… err forward.
< Elijah > ~Lets go and steps back. Still unsure about Stalm~
< Stalm > ~hovers there, then becomes a long vertical sliver of silver light.~ Nothing to be afraid of Elijah. I’m quite safe.
< Elijah > ~Still watches him, says nothing~
< Seth > I’d trust my life with him. He’s saved me a few times
< Stalm > As have you. ~He flickers, than broadens, becoming like a mirror except the “glass” shows the base, yet its very different than now.~
< Seth > Not much is known about his kind, but they are quite handy when you need to jump times.
< Elijah > ~Looks at him more calm~ So I just walk through. ~He moves closer looking at what looks like Command Center of his time~
< Stalm > It’s that or click your heels together and say, “there’s no time like home.”
< Seth > ~rolls his eyes~ Yes you just walk through. Stalm maybe a powerful little ball of light but his mentality can be that of a 5 year old.
< Elijah > ~Grins, walks towards Stalm and what is his time. He turns around just short of the door and says~ Thanks. ~Then walks through~
< Seth > No trouble ~says as Elijah walks in~
< Stalm > ~After he is through, snaps back to his ball of light form.~
< Elijah > ~Elijah walks into the command center, some what relieved to be home. He looks around the main room, looking for people that he would recognize for he wanted to see a familiar face. He walks to the back rooms, looking for Irene, for she is someone he wants to talk to~ Hello, is anybody here?
< Cougar > ~Irene is working on one of the main panels, her full attention is on it and doesn't hear him~
< Elijah > ~He moves closer to the panel, thinking that he can see someone.~ Aunt Irene?
< Cougar > ~she looks up~ Oh Elijah, sorry, didn't hear you come in. Yes?
< Elijah > Ummmm... I was wondering if I could talk to you about something..... ~he sounds nervous~
< Cougar > ~turns to face him~ Sure
< Elijah > Umm.. it's about my training....~looks for the words.~ I was wondering if... well I've always been interested in magic... and I ... would... kind of like to learn some. ~breathes deeply relieved to get it out~
< Cougar > You want me to teach you?
< Elijah > Who ever would be willing.
< Cougar > I don't see anything wrong with that. I can teach you. But why did you come to me instead of your mother?
< Elijah > ~lowers his head~ You know how she feels about magic. She doesn't like it and has told me I could learn it when I'm older. She keeps telling me that. Well I feel I'm old enough. That's why I came to you.
< Cougar > Yes I suppose we differ in our views on this matter...
< Elijah > ~nods in agreement.~
< Cougar > I will agree to train you, even though she'll probably get me for it later.
< Elijah > ~grins, thinking of his mother’s reaction to the news~ Thank you. When can we start? ~sounds like an excited child~
< Cougar > We start now.
< Elijah > ~his eyes brighten~
< Cougar > ~she teleports them to the woods. It is a clearing/meadow deep within the forest. Some of the rocks nearby still bear scorch marks~
< Elijah > So what will we start with? ~he thinks of shooting fire, and magical balls of light~
< Cougar > Now don't get too excited. Unfocused energy can be deadly.
< Elijah > ~nods~ ok, I will try to calm down, and focus.
< Cougar > Being from the same family I do know that fire will be a major part of your skill, but other than that I don't know what you are capable of.
< Elijah > ~shrugs~ I have no idea.... never been able to play with it before. When Sarah was going to show me some of it, that's when mom stopped my teachings.
< Cougar > We're going to try something. I want you to attempt to use your magic in any way you think you are able to. Whether that’s firing a beam, or moving a rock it doesn't matter. From the energy that you use I should be able to get an idea where to go from there.
< Elijah > And how am I suppose to do that?
< Cougar > Look within for that answer.
< Elijah > ~tries to concentrate. He looks down at his hands and thinks of Stalm, and thinks of how Seth handled the ball of light that was Stalm. Soon, he has formed a blackish ball of light, and is firing it at rocks to blow them up. He looks at his aunt.~ How was that?
< Cougar > ~watching him carefully, doesn't answer right away~
< Elijah > ~he forms a few more, and does the same thing. The last one he plays with it in the way Seth did Stalm~
< Cougar > Interesting choice of magic.
< Cougar > Where have you seen it before, or did you make it up? ~she walks over to the shards of rock, picking one piece up~
< Elijah > ~he is still playing with the ball of light~
< Cougar > ~she looks at him~ One thing you need to learn quickly is to pay attention.
< Elijah > ~looks at her.~ I pay attention. I was waiting for you to answer.
< Cougar > I asked you a question that will lead to your answer. I asked where have you seen this particular magic before or have you made it up?
< Elijah > ~thought for moment~ I just looked at my hands and concentrated. And that is what came out. ~he lied~
< Cougar > That was not what I asked. Now, where did you see it.
< Elijah > I told you, I haven’t seen any magic but Sarah's. I just concentrated, on it I don't know where it came from.
< Cougar > ~looks at him in silence, knowing something’s not right, but looks back at the rock shard~
< Elijah > ~fallows her gaze~ What?
< Cougar > Nothing.
< Elijah > ~watches her not knowing what to expect~
< Cougar > ~lightly tosses the shard back onto the ground and walks back over to where Elijah is~
< Elijah > What's next?
< Cougar > That you'll find out at a later date. Now that I have an idea of your power signature, I can plan that out.
< Elijah > So no more lesson. ~sounds disappointed.~
< Cougar > No more today.
< Elijah > oh... ok....
< Cougar > Though I will point out that if I am to correctly teach you I must receive honest answers.
< Elijah > ~looks angered~ But I am telling you the truth!
< Cougar > You've seen someone do something similar to what you just did. I can guarantee that it wasn't Sarah.
< Elijah > I told you it wasn't Sarah. I just did it! I don't know where it came from. ~is frustrated.~
< Cougar > ~looks at him darkly~ As you say. ~turns away from him, looking in the direction of the base~
< Elijah > ~Is angered now~ Well, go back, if that's what you want to do!
< Cougar > If you are telling the truth why are you angry. If it is the truth there is no reason to be protective.
< Elijah > ~looks at her startled~ I'm not angry, just disappointed.
< Cougar > Why? ~hasn't been looking at him~
< Elijah > I've just always been fascinated with magic, now I have someone to teach it to me, and then in the first lesson, I don't get taught anything. ~he looks truly sad.~
< Cougar > ~turns to him~ My style of teaching is very different. There are lessons in everything.
< Elijah > ~just nods and says nothing~
< Cougar > I never planned on becoming a teacher. Take that as you will.
< Elijah > ~nods again~
< Cougar > With open ears and eyes and mind you'll learn more than just the face value of what I say.
< Elijah > Thank you Aunt Irene. I will take your word... till next time. ~he doesn't turn around~
< Cougar > Yes. Till then. ~morphs cougar and trots off into the woods~
< Elijah > ~sits down, on a rock, looking at the ball. It disappears~
< Cougar > ~Irene arrives at base, enters still in her cougar form~
< Steph > ~Stephanie is standing near the viewing globe, she doesn't look happy. She turns to look at her~ Well, hello, my dear sister.
< Cougar > Somebody spying on their son? ~stops and sits down facing her. Stays in cougar form, thus making her expressions impossible to read~
< Steph > No, just wondering where he was, he had been gone for a while. Why were you showing him magic? You know how I feel about it.
< Cougar > He's in the woods. And I showed him nothing. ~slightly stressing "I showed"~
< Steph > But you agreed to teach him didn't you?
< Cougar > Yes, I did.
< Stephanie> and why would you do that?
< Cougar > An untrained magical being is dangerous, especially at his age.
< Steph > ~sighs~ I guess you are right. But I'm not sure I like it.
< Cougar > He has a gift, why shant he use it?
< Steph > I don't know... it's just kind of scary... for me...
< Cougar > ~looks curiously at her~ Why?
< Steph > ~she lowers her eyes You and him are the only family I have left.. oh, and Salia and Jake..... he just reminds me of Adam so much.... ~she doesn't say anything else, brushes the tear from her eye~
< Cougar > Understandable Steph, but he needs to test his wings. ~she turns to look over the panels~
< Steph > I know... but.. i don't know....
< Elijah > ~Elijah, is still in the same place that Irene left him in. He seems to be waiting for somebody~
< Cougar > ~he hears something approaching~
< Elijah > ~turns to see who it is~
< Salia > ~a Catsi leaps out of the bushes, landing right in front of him. Its looking at its paws as if it where chasing something~
< Elijah > ~looks at it funny~ What are you doing here? ~sounds irritated~
< Salia > huh? ~looks up~ Oh hi Elijah.
< Elijah > What are you up to?
< Salia > Perhaps I should ask you the same. ~looks at him curiously~
< Elijah > I'm just spending sometime by myself. Getting away from the base.
< Salia > Yeah.. I can agree with that. Though, you look like you were expecting something. ~gets up and walks around the area~
< Elijah > No... nothing.
< Salia > And cathern dance and sing with the catsi.
< Elijah > Really? I didn't know that. ~he grins and ruffles the fur on her head~
< Salia > Hey! ~dances back away from him~
< Elijah > Ohhhh... poor baby... don't like your hair messed up....
< Cougar > ~moves a paw over her head, un-ruffling her fur. She then pounces near him, sitting on her haunches and puts a paw on his head, ruffling his hair, before dancing back out of the way~
< Elijah > Hey!!! what did you do that for? ~straightens his hair, then stops when he realizes what he's done~
< Salia > What? ~turns her head to the side questioningly~
< Elijah > Nevermind....
< Salia > No what? ~looks concerned~
< Elijah > Nothing....
< Salia > ~sits back, scratching lightly at her shoulder with a hind foot, nearly spinning the gold cats-eye necklace around~
< Elijah > ~looks at his cousin, funny. He then morphes down into his SA, the raccoon~
< Salia > ~stops, foot still at her shoulder. Looks at him~ Where did you learn to do that?
< Elijah > It's my SA. My mom showed me. The only magic she would ever show me.
< Salia > ~sets her foot down, shifting her weight forward again. Gets up and walks up to him, kneeling down slightly to look at him~ Now aren't you cute ~grins mischievously~
< Elijah > ~tilts his head side ways,~ Ain't I?
< Salia > ~pushes him lightly with a paw~ Full of our self too ~teasingly~
< Elijah > ~grins again. Then slaps her shoulder~ Tag your it! ~runs off into the forest~
< Salia > Wha? ~watches him a few seconds before bounding after him, her wings half open for speed and balance~
< Elijah > ~looks back to see if she was following, and then turns and keeps on running~
< Salia > ~she keeps running straight even where he had turned~
< Elijah > ~scampers behind a bush, they are thick so he keeps running~
< Salia > ~continues running in a different direction, running flat out, her ears laid back. Suddenly pounces on him, their paths crossed. Her form has shrunk to his size~
< Elijah > ~looks startled, and scared~ Where'd you come from?
< Salia > ~flicks her tail in the direction she came from~ Took the long way ~breathing somewhat hard~
< Elijah > ~chuckles slightly~ Being small has it's advantages.
< Salia > ~hops back~ I don't know how you can stand being this small.. ~she regains her catsi's original height~
< Elijah > ~stands up~ Why? I love my raccoon shape. It quick, slick, and I have a whole of fun while I am it. I guess that's why it's my spirit animal and the Catsi is yours.
< Salia > ~flaps her wings, as if stretching them~ Well of course you like the coon. Its just a bit small.. and slow ~smiles~
< Elijah > ~looks offended~ ahh! It is not slow, it may be small, but definitely not slow. Very quick. ~says trying to convince himself~
< Salia > Very quick for a small earth animal. ~pats him on the head with a paw~
< Elijah > ~swats it away, then adds brightly~ The best earth animal around!
< Salia > That's what you think. Ask any one and they'll say their spirit animal is the best around.
< Elijah > Well, of course. I would think they were very weird if they didn't. ~laughs slightly~
< Salia > ~grooms her left shoulder quickly, moving the necklace slightly. Then looks back at him~
< Elijah > ~the light hits the necklace so it shines, his curiosity gets the better of him, and he grabs it in his paws, pulls it and runs~
< Salia > ~she howls, rearing back, wings spread~ Elijah! Give that back! ~her voice sounds urgent~
< Elijah > ~he stops quickly and then looks back her~ Why?
< Salia > Hurry! Before it kicks in! Give it back! ~approaches him quickly~
< Elijah > ~looks startled~ What's the matter Salia? ~sounds worried~
< Salia > Tell later, give it back now! ~shrieks, her eyes still look panicked, but her form seems to be relaxing.~
< Elijah > ~won't let go, for his raccoon soul wanted the shinny necklace~
< Salia > I need it! ~her voice seems to be calming, but not because she wants it to~
< Elijah > ~tries to let go, but can't~ It won't let me!
< Salia > ~tries to snatch it back. But it won't come lose~ Let go... please.. let go... ~voice is quieter but still urgent~
< Elijah > I’m trying! ~sounds slightly nervous himself~ Something’s causing it to keep my hand clenched
< Salia > ~looks scared as the necklace flashes a bright yellow~ Not much time..
< Elijah > ~thinks to himself hard~ *please hand let go.... something is wrong.... something is very wrong... why won't you let go... please.....* ~suddenly the hand lets go~
< Salia > ~snatches it quickly and darts up into the air, landing in a tree high above him~
< Elijah > ~looks up at her~ Are you ok?
< Salia > ~doesn't answer him. Has her wings open and almost shielding her. Trembling, puts the necklace back on~
< Elijah > ~has a very worried look on his face, but says nothing~
< Salia > ~lowers her wings, sweeping them back, but doesn't fold them. Her ears lie to the sides, still somewhat trembling~
< Elijah > ~climbs up the tree towards her. Stays a few feet away.~ Are you okay?
< Cougar > I'll live... ~says quietly. turns slightly so that she can see him~
< Elijah > ~moves closer to her~ What was that all about?
< Salia > The Catsi are connected with their necklaces. To hold one is to "own" one.
< Elijah > ohhhh... I'm sorry..... Sometimes the raccoon’s instincts are hard to control because they are so care free. They also like shinny things... I'm realllyyyy sorrrrryyyyy.
< Salia > It's alright... ~composure grooms one paw~
< Elijah > ~still looks upset, but says nothing~
< Salia > ~she looks up at the sky, opening her wings slightly~ I'd better go.. been out longer than I'm supposed to be..
< Elijah > Ok, well... I guess I'll see you back at the base.
< Salia > ~nods slightly then launches off the branch, flapping wings soars into the trees toward the base~
< Elijah > ~Elijah scrambles down the tree, and rushes off to the spot that he was earlier, hopping he hadn’t made anybody too mad.~
< Darrin > ~Darrin is standing near one of the trees in the spot, waiting~
< Elijah > ~He stops suddenly, morphs quickly, and walks over to him~ Sorry I'm late... I ran into some trouble.
< Darrin > Be glad it is only me who had to wait.
< Elijah > Yes, I know... I'm sorry, but I had to lead my cousin away.... she is so quick to pick up on things.
< Darrin > ~he nods~ Yes. What do you have to report? ~getting to the point. Almost seems as if he has better things to do than interview him~
< Elijah > Report? I thought I was coming for training today? I haven't been told of any report?
< Darrin > Part of the agreement is for you to tell us what's going on down here.
< Elijah > ... but it's my family... I told you last time I was just in it for the training..... ~sounds worried, not sure what to do~
< Darrin > ~holding his frustration more or less well~ Then you'll need to take it up with "him".
< Elijah > ~looks scared~ Ummm... well, i guess i could tell you something.... what do you want to know?
< Darrin > Anything of interest to us.
< Elijah > ~thinks for a moment. looks around nervously~
< Darrin > No one can hear us. I placed a highly effective spell in this area.
< Elijah > well.. ummm.... I found out something interesting about Salia... will that do?
< Darrin > Perhaps. ~sounds interested~
< Elijah > Well.... see her SA is the Catsi, and the necklace has some kind of control over her. I'm not sure, what it is, but she goes wacko if you take it from her.
< Darrin > That's the way all Catsi work. But it is still somewhat useful.
< Elijah > I really don't know that much about it. But she made comments about time almost being up, and it was changing colors and stuff. It was really weird. Can I have my lesson now?
< Darrin > Fine. ~conceding, knowing it was the only way to shut him up~
< Elijah > Yeah! ~feels excited now~
< Elijah > ~Later on, Elijah, slips through the door of the command center, not teleporting because it makes too much noise. The room is dark.... He tiptoes to towards the hall that leads to his room. Then he hears someone clear their voice. He freezes~
< Voice > ~the voice says~ And where have you been?
< Elijah > ~he turns around, and the light suddenly turns on. He sees his mother standing there. She is in her bathrobe, and slippers. She has a stern look on her face.~ I have been worried sick about you.
< Elijah > Sorry mom. I just... I just... I ... had to do some thinking... and I couldn’t do that here....
< Steph > Oh, really, and why is that?
< Elijah > Because my head gets too crowded with the things that go on here. ~he sounds like he’s getting annoyed~
< Steph > Young man, don't you talk to me in that tone of my voice... As long as you are my son, than I have the right to ask you where you've been! ~she's yelling now~
< Elijah > Mom that's exactly why I have to sneak off! You still consider me a little kid.... I have been alive for 50 years. And you still act as if I'm 10! I'm not. I'm old enough to live my own life. ~he looks so mad that he has a slight flushed look to his face.~
< Steph > ~just looks at him blankly~
< Elijah > You wouldn't understand ~at that he went to his room~
< Steph > ~Stephanie watched him leave, but says nothing. A single tear streamed down her face. She brushes it away and heads for her own room, and turns out the light~
< Salia > ~Salia, in her natural form, wanders out into the empty main room. Completely unaware of what had happened not that long ago. She has been avoiding contact with anyone since she returned. Silently and slowly walks past the panels, looking at them. Still appears to be troubled~
< Elijah > ~Elijah walks into the main room, unaware of Salia, he couldn't sleep~
< Salia > ~seems too intent on the panels to notice that there is another in the room. Continues to walk slowly, along the panels, back and forth~
< Elijah > ~looks around the room not sure why he ended up there. Still doesn't see Salia~
< Salia > ~stops at the edge of the panel, still facing it. Takes a deep breath in as if trying to calm frayed nerves~
< Elijah > ~turns around and sees Salia~ Salia? What are you doing up?
< Salia > ~jumps and turns around quickly. Her expression goes blank, as if to hide something~ Can't sleep...
< Elijah > ahhh... sounds slightly familiar...~ looks at her~ Are you ok?
< Salia > ~with somewhat weak conviction~ yeah... I'll... I'll be fine.
< Elijah > Are you sure?
< Salia > ~nods~
< Elijah > ~looks at her questioningly~ ok... I guess.... but I'm here if you need me....
< Salia > ~looks at him oddly as if she senses something~
< Elijah > What? ~looks slightly startled~
< Salia > I sense something other than your magic on you...
< Elijah > Like what? What could it be?
< Salia > I don't know... its magical whatever it is. Did you meet up with anyone earlier today?
< Elijah > ahh... no .. not that I can recall.
< Salia > Weird.. ~walks a bit closer to him, but still keeping her distance~ It certainly feels like another's power signature..
< Elijah > ~shrugs~ I don't know what it could be.
< Salia > I could be wrong I suppose... ~looks away from him as if to hide embarrassment from misinterpreting something~
< Elijah > Hey, it's ok... we all make mistakes. ~is thinking about of few of his own~
< Salia > Its not always okay... ~facing the panel~
< Elijah > Why? Everyone makes mistakes... even I make mistakes... and I'm almost perfect. ~tries to get a smile out of her, but keeps his distance~
< Salia > One mistake could be fatal.
< Elijah > Now, you sound like your mother.
< Salia > ~she says nothing, facing the panel still~
< Elijah > ~he watches her quietly from were he is standing~ Well... if you don’t want to talk then I'm going to go back to bed now... ~still has his eyes on her~
< Salia > okay..
< Elijah > ~walks out of the room, and goes back to his room, but he still can't sleep~
< Salia > ~she wanders down the hallway toward the exit, slowly. ~
< Elijah > ~lays on his bed staring at the ceiling, thinking about everything that has been going on~
< Salia > ~leaves the base, and sits down near the door, back to the wall looking out over the desert. Later on in the night she eventually returns inside going to her room.~
< Cougar > ~Morning~
< Elijah > ~Elijah still hasn’t sleep at all but, realizes that it's time to get up so he gets up and goes to kitchen to get something to eat~
< Cougar > ~When Elijah enters the kitchen, he quickly notices that he's not where he thought he'd be. What was the kitchen in his time is a larger room with long tables. Several of these tables are filled with men and the occasional female. They are eating breakfast that they picked up at the counter, much like a cafeteria. The noise level is at a low hum~
< Elijah > ~he looks startled~ Where the heck, am I?
< Thom > ~people are coming and going through the door, not really noticing him. One younger male stopped in front of him. Looking at him curiously~ I don't remember seeing you before? A new recruit?
< Elijah > I have no idea? ~he looks at him with big eyes~ I have no idea how I got here?
< Thom > Follow me then... ~he sounds slightly confused, takes him to a separate room that is empty~
< Elijah > ~has no idea, so he follows him without saying a word~
< Thom > ~upon entering, he turns to him~ Now perhaps you could explain what you mean about not knowing where you are?
< Elijah > I have no idea where I am... I got up this morning, and went to the kitchen, and well, I found myself in there. ~looks around the room trying to find something that he could remember.~
< Cougar > ~the room is fairly bare except a table and several wooden chairs. He has yet to see any advanced technologies.. so far he's seen none. The clothing of the people is also much, much older~
< Thom > Did you perhaps hit your head during lesson yesterday?
< Elijah > ~looks at him strangely~ I don't know what you are talking about? Where am I?
< Thom > You are in the earth base of the Light army.
< Elijah > I'm a light warrior, and I live in the earth base, but I've never seen it look like this before. ~starting to realize what happened~
< Female > ~they hear a loud bugle call from outside. The noise in the kitchen rises as people quickly clean up and walk down the hallway. A female about the same age as Elijah stops at the doorway. Looks strangely at Elijah, but says nothing to him.~ Thom you'll be late.
< Thom > ~looking up at her~ Let him know that I'll be there in a moment.
< Female > ~she shakes her head and then leaves quickly, following the crowd~
< Elijah > ~thinks a moment~ What year is it?
< Thom > Ten hundred from the start of the treaty.
< Elijah > ~thinking maybe he went through another time hole~ What?!?!?! I figured I'd went through another time hole, but this is ridicules! I went back, way farther then what I thought was possible! ~he looks panicked now~
< Thom > A time hole? Interesting.. not my area of study so I'm not the one to ask.
< Elijah > Can you take me to the one that I can ask? Someone who would know something about this?
< Thom > Maybe...
< Elijah > Please?
< Thom > I don't think I know anyone. Though Jesse or Irene might know.
< Elijah > Irene?
< Thom > Yes, she was the one who stopped by.
< Elijah > ~thinks for a moment, and remembers Irene talking about the "old" days. And Jesse, ah, the relative of Sarah. The reason she had her magic.~ I would like to talk to either of them.
< Thom > You'll have to wait until break.. In fact I should be out there now... If you wish you can observe.
< Elijah > That sounds good, not that I have any other option.
< Elijah > ~leads him out of the room and toward the outside. As they head out further from the base toward the desert, Elijah hears a roar of noise. Many groups of people are separated and doing a variety of things from sword fighting to hand and hand to general lessons~
< Thom > We do a variety of things to keep the army in shape. And each section rotates after a certain amount of time.
< Elijah > ~he says under his breath~ wow....~then out loud~ Interesting....
< Thom > In case you’re wondering, there are about 5000 in the army right now, but this number moves around. Our leader is away at the moment. There’s a situation brewing on one of the ally planets. He’s gone to see if the army is necessary or if it can be dealt with peaceably. Over there, ~points to the left at three people who are standing aside from the training~ is the general and his assistants.
< Elijah > Wow, I didn't realize the army was ever that big, when Aunt Irene talked about it she only talked about a few...
< Thom > ~looks at him~ Did you say Aunt?
< Elijah > ~looks back him~ No, no, you were hearing things. ~they approach a small group of four, three younger and one older. Elijah recognizes one of them as the girl from earlier. Elijah stays back~
< Thom > This is the group I'm usually with.
< Elijah > ~nods at him~
< Cougar > ~the three of them are doing target practice with the bow and arrow~
< Thom > From left to right its Irene, Jesse and Sami. Our instructor is Garron.
< Elijah > ~he looks over at them. Doesn't do anything because he's not sure what to do~
< Thom > You can wait here for us if you like, or you can move about and see what each of the groups are doing. We are used to visitors while we work. ~he walks to the instructor, leaving Elijah~
< Elijah > ~nods~ ok. ~not sure what to do, he watches carefully at what Thom's group is doing. He watches Irene for a while, but soon follows what Jesse is doing. Remembers the stories that had been told about him. A magician, the reason Sarah had her powers.... amazing... just amazing~
< Cougar > ~from observing it was easy to tell who was an archer and who wasn't. Thom and Sami could hit the target, but were rarely close to the bullseye. Jesse could nail the bullseye while Irene was in-between~
< Elijah > ~watches with much excitement. He loved watching the training. It was everything that he had hoped that he would learn, minus the magic. Though he was sure that there was probably some of that involved somewhere~
< Cougar > ~the instructor had moved on, allowing the four to continue. A dialogue soon began shortly after he left~
< Thom > Bet I can hit the bullseye before you do Sami.
< Sami > Right, you can barely hit the board anyway. ~she smiles~
< Jesse > You two always make it a contest.
< Thom > So says the one who can hit the bullseye every time.
< Elijah > ~grins, remembering the competitions that used to arouse with his two sisters. Especially, Kim. For some reason she had this fire that just caused fire. Mom, said she was like her name sake~
< Cougar > ~a squeal broke his thoughts. Sami just hit the bullseye~
< Sami > Told you I could do it first!
< Elijah > ~watches intensely to see what would happen next~
< Thom > You cheated somehow ~grins and turns to Jesse and Irene~ Now which one of you had something to do with it?
< Jesse > ~moves his hands up~ Wasn't me.
< Irene > Thom if you didn't try so hard you'd get it ~grins~ Besides why would one of us help her hit it?
< Elijah > ~grins and whispers~ some things never change.
< Cougar > ~soon they ran out of arrows. They set the bows down and walked over to the targets to gather them up. Thom turns back toward Elijah and motions him to come over~
< Elijah > ~he walks over, cautiously~
< Cougar > ~the others look up from what they are doing~
< Elijah > Hi.
< Sami > Hello, you new around here?
< Elijah > I guess you could say that. ~not sure what to say, so he doesn't. He fiddles with his hands~
< Jesse > Thom mentioned that you wished to speak with us?
< Irene > We can stay here or go somewhere more quiet if you wish.
< Elijah > ~looks at a much younger version of his aunt.~ I think I would rather talk to you guys in private, that way everybody doesn't think I'm crazy.
< Jesse > Alright, follow us. ~he heads back toward base, Irene follows slightly behind him~
< Elijah > ~follows Irene and Jesse~
< Thom > ~Thom calls after Jesse and Irene as they walk away~ Don't forget your lessons with Larenth later today.
< Jesse > I'd like to.. ~mutters quietly~
< Irene > ~smiles~ But he's your favorite magic teacher. ~they lead Elijah toward the base~
< Elijah > ~Elijah's eyes brighten at the word magic~
< Jesse > The man doesn't know any more about magic than the books he reads.
< Irene > Yes, but its fun to pull things he doesn't know what they are. You have to admit that.
< Elijah > ~listen to the two intensely, but says nothing~
< Jesse > I suppose it is amusing to watch him flip through those books rapidly trying to figure it out and still save face.
< Elijah > ~grins slightly~
< Cougar > ~they reach the base and take Elijah to the same room that he had been in with Thom~
< Elijah > ~says nothing, waits to be spoken too. Feels slightly nervous around Irene and Jesse, not sure what to expect~
< Jesse > Feel free to take your time with explanations. ~sensing his nervousness~ We have time.
< Elijah > Ok...~ clears his throat~ Well, I'm from the future. I know this sounds kind of weird but, I stepped through a time hole on accident some how, and I was hopping, and Thom said you might know something about the holes, you could help me get home.
< Irene > ~Irene looks to Jesse briefly before addressing Elijah~ Its nothing weird I assure you. I've heard of them, but never actually had contact with one who has used one. I'm afraid neither of us know how to send you back, but there is one who can.
< Jesse > Unfortunately he's away at business and won't return for three days.
< Elijah > ~sighs~ Ok, great, another thing for my mother to gripe at me about.
< Irene > Well actually, if this particular time hole is the same as I've studied, no time will pass there even though it has here.
< Elijah > thank goodness..
< Jesse > You know who we are, but you never mentioned your name.
< Elijah > My name is Elijah Park. I am a light warrior of the very far future.
< Irene > I could tell from your power signature.
< Elijah > ~looks at her~ Boy, you haven't changed at all. ~not realizing he said that.~
< Irene > ~she looks away slightly unsure what to say to that~
< Jesse > ~smiles but says nothing~ I suppose I could use that as a warning, ~smiles at Irene~
< Irene > ~hits him the arm lightly~ Sathra ~grinning as she said it~
< Elijah > ~turns his glance towards Jesse, but just watches with amazement~
< Jesse > ~backs up~ Sorry ~smiles back at her~ I'll keep my peace.
< Elijah > ~laughs remembering Sarah~
< Irene > ~turning back to Elijah~ I'd offer you the chance to join us in our lessons, but I'm sure our methods are outdated in your time.
< Elijah > ~looks at her like she was crazy~ Actually if you really want to know. You are in charge of the classes, so they really haven't changed that much. So I would love to sit in on one of your classes. ~thinking of the magic class they were talking about~
< Irene > Me? Teach? ~she looks somewhat horrified by this.
< Jesse > ~stifles a laugh~
< Elijah > Yes, you are a teacher... trust me, if there was somebody else to do the job, you would gladly give it up. Infact, you are my magic teacher. ~dropping a hint~
< Irene > ~looks back at Jesse briefly~ Certainly better than those tellers in the village. ~grins slightly. Turns back to Elijah~ I was actually saying that you should join our lesson.. but if you wish to only observe that's fine.
< Elijah > No. No. I would love to join. The classes of the future are kind of dull, no offence, and not as many people, so I would love to have a chance to get a chance to see what it is like to study with you guys. I've heard so many stories.
< Irene > Alright then. ~a loud bugle call cuts her off~ Section change.
< Jesse > ~looking toward Irene~ Don't you have watch now?
< Irene > and tomorrow morning...
< Elijah > watch? What does that mean?
< Irene > I ride around the grounds, making sure every thing’s good. Help when needed, alert when something comes up.
< Elijah > ahh.... see that's where our times differ from... see, we have things called computers to help us with that. Great little inventions
< Irene > I bet. Do you want to come with me? You can see most of the training.
< Elijah > Sure, I really don't know what else I would do.
< Irene > Come on then. ~she heads out the door, calling back at Jesse~ See you later with Larenth Jesse.
< Elijah > bye. ~waves at Jesse~
< Jesse > Have fun
< Irene > ~Irene leads him out of the base and toward a smaller building nearby that doesn't exist in Elijah's day~
< Elijah > ~looks at everything with curiosity~ Wow. This is amazing. It's interesting to see how many different things have changed about one place, in so many years. ~looks at everything around him~
< Irene > ~before they enter the building~ Perhaps I should ask if you know how to ride?
< Elijah > I've ridden a couple of times. I know the basics.
< Irene > Dawning can take us both unless you prefer a horse to yourself?
< Elijah >We can ride the same one... that's fine with me. That way, I won't get separated from you and get lost.
< Irene > ~they enter and head over to a stall with a fairly large white horse~
< Elijah > wow. Very beautiful beast ~smiles. He stands back, so she can get the horse ready~
< Irene > ~pats the horse on the nose~ Yeah, and she knows it. ~leads the horse out, all the tack is on the horse, even though it wasn't a moment ago. Once outside she stops the horse and looks to Elijah~
< Elijah > ~looks at the horse with amazement but doesn't say anything~
< Irene > You'll need to get up first. I'll ride in front of you.
< Elijah > oh, sorry, I'm a little slow sometimes. ~he puts one foot into the holster and swings his leg over the saddle, and sits down~
< Irene > ~she hops up quickly, and sits on the front part of the saddle~ Ready?
< Elijah > Yeah, ready. ~puts his arms around her waist so he has something to hang onto~
< Irene > ~clicks to the horse and they trot out from the building toward the training field~
< Elijah > ~watches with big eyes as they pass~
< Irene > ~slows the horse to a walk once they arrive at the field. They start to circle around the field~ Any questions you have feel free to speak them.
< Elijah > Will do. I'm just so amazed how much different the light warriors are here, then in the future. Oh, and if you want to ask questions about the future, I'd be glad to talk about them, as much as you'd like.
< Irene > Actually we aren't called light warriors here. Light warriors are a little different.
< Elijah > What do you mean?
< Irene > Light warriors have powers that the army doesn't have. We fight by sword and other weapons... well except myself and Jesse. We are the only two capable of magic in the army.
< Elijah > Interesting... ~he watches as people below are learning different battle techniques. Some are using weapons, some are just fighting hand to hand. Thinks for a moment~ But I thought you said you have magic class. Are you and Jesse the only ones taking that, or would they show it to others?
< Irene > We're the only ones taking it yes.. Everyone usually heads home before dinner.. Our class falls after.
< Elijah > ~says nothing, just tries to suck everything in~
< Irene > ~after a few moments~ I do suppose this is quite a bit. It’s been so long since I was new here that I don't remember what it was like to first be here.
< Elijah > Yeah, there is a lot of things to admire. It just amazing. I would love to train like this, but I've only done some of the basic trains, and just starting magic, which is my real passion in life.
< Irene > I don't know if I care too much about the learning part of that ~grins~ Especially when Larenth is teaching..
< Elijah > Well, I don't know that much about magic and classes, but I love using it, when ever I get a chance, and find a new thing to do with it.
< Irene > Well at least I know I learn enough to teach eventually. I hope I'm better than Larenth... ~smiles~
< Elijah > Well, I've only had one session with you, but I think, and I hope, it's a little bit more of a hands on thing. Especially where you know so much.
< Irene > Should be giving that credit to my teacher, our general. He generally takes Jesse and my class. Only when he is away does Larenth teach it.
< Elijah > Well we all have our teachers, so we have to give thinks to them all.
< Irene > Very true. ~pats Dawning's neck, speaking softly to the horse in Nathadian~
< Elijah > What language is that? I've heard you talk in it several times, in the future I mean.
< Irene > Its the ancient language, Nathadian.
< Elijah > Interesting...
< Irene > We use it when we contact other species, both ally and other.
< Elijah > ~nods in interest, but says nothing. Watches the sites as they move~
< Irene > ~they continue on. They ride out further, past the fields so that they can barely see the training~
< Elijah > What do you guys do out here?
< Irene > Nothing. This part of the route takes me closer to the borders.
< Elijah > ah.. just curious
< Irene > One of the more boring jobs we do around here. ~smiles~
< Elijah > ~nods in agreement~
< Irene > We'll be done by the time dinner is ready.
< Elijah > Good, I'm starting to get hungry. ~rubs his stomach~ What is for dinner anyways? ~hoping it was something that sounded somewhat familiar~
< Irene > ~shrugs~ Never know. Nothing fancy I know that. Most of the army goes home for dinner, leaving a few of us here.
< Elijah > Ahhhh.....
< Irene > No worries though, the cook has never made something that's inedible, yet ~smiles~
< Elijah > ~looks at her awkwardly at her~
< Irene > What?
< Elijah > Oh, nothing.....~looks away~
< Irene > You sure?
< Elijah > Yep, sure as I can be in a brand new time that I've never been in before. ~grins slightly~
< Irene > ~they have turned slightly, moving almost parallel to the practice field, but not close enough to see it yet. A smallish building is up ahead of them, seems to blend in with the rocks~
< Elijah > What's that? ~he asks point towards the building~
< Irene > That's where the sword is kept.
< Elijah > The sword?
< Irene > The dark one.
< Elijah > ~thinks for a moment~ ohh.... that sword.... ~watches the building closely~
< Irene > Why do you take such an interest to it? ~looks back at him~
< Elijah > oh, I don't know. Its just a very interesting source of magic, and I'm very interested in magic. ~he doesn't move his eyes, it feels almost as if he is drawn towards the building.~
< Irene > ~she keeps their distance from the building, but its still within sight~ Not the magic one should be dealing with.
< Elijah > ~looks back at her~ Yeah, from what I hear it's pretty deadly.
< Irene > Yes it is. That is why no one uses it.
< Elijah > Probably a smart thing.
< Irene > That and the light sword reacts strangely to it.
< Elijah > ~tries to think if Jesse would have the sword yet or not~ And were is it?
< Irene > With me.
< Elijah > ~looks at her strangely~ with you?! wow. I didn't know.... ~trails off not wanting to give anymore away about the future~
< Irene > ~looks at him curiously~ It was given to me by our teacher.
< Elijah > Interesting....
< Irene > Yet he gave no reason for it.
< Elijah > He probably felt that you would be a good protector, until it was put into it's place.
< Irene > Whatever that may be. I don't know much about the actual truth of the swords, other than the legends..
< Elijah > ~shrugs slightly~ Nobody really does.
< Irene > I suppose. And that's why they are legends told around a campfire to entertain. ~shrugs~ Interesting none the less
< Elijah > ~nods in agreement~ Yes, and there probably many more told in the future. ~grins~ Maybe you'll be in them.
< Irene > Not maybe.
< Elijah > I guess I'm the only one that truly knows though. ~there's a glimmer in his eye~
< Irene > I suppose you are referring to the legend about the dragon? The dark one.
< Elijah > Maybe. I can't really tell you it wouldn't really be my place, plus I kinda want to get back to my time without screwing it up.
< Irene > I'm not asking you to reveal anything. It was merely a yes or no question.
< Elijah > And I said maybe... which normal means yes when it comes to me
< Irene > ~they turn again, moving away from the building, toward the grounds~
< Elijah > ~changes the subject~ Where are we going now?
< Irene > Back.
< Elijah > Time for dinner?????
< Irene > When we get there. ~looking up at the sky~ We'll be a bit late. The horn just sounded.
< Elijah > Horn, I didn't hear any horn?
< Irene > That is because you are mostly human.
< Elijah > Humans can't hear it?
< Irene > Not at this distance. ~has the horse move into a trot/lope~
< Elijah > ahhhh.....
< Irene > ~they enter the practice grounds as the people are packing up to go. Slows back down to a walk. Some are complaining about being tired, some express happiness that its over with while others are chatting about dinner. A few say greetings to them as they pass. Stops the horse at the base~ You can go on in first. It'll take me a bit to put Dawning up
< Elijah > Ok. ~He slides off the back of the horse~ Where should I go?
< Irene > I assume you know where the dining hall is?
< Elijah > yes. I do ~thinking of his first encounter when he thought he was going to get breakfast. He turns and goes inside, he heads for the dining hall~
< Thom > ~from behind him~ Hey Elijah wait up! ~Thom said, walking quickly to catch up~
< Elijah > ~stops and turns to look at him~ Hurry up! I'm hungry!
< Thom > ~reaches him~ Like half of the army isn't. How'd rounds go?
< Elijah > Hey, I was suppose to have breakfast this morning and well you know the rest of that story. And they went alright. Nothing happened and well... they were kind of boring.
< Thom > Kind of? From what I hear the watcher practically sleeps throughout the round. All I can say is I'm glad I'm not on that shift.
< Elijah > Well I don't think I'll make it an everyday thing. ~they enter the dining hall. At one group of tables up near the front, there are several officers. At the other table, about 5 others are seated and at the end of that table are Jesse and Sami. Elijah follows Thom closely~
< Thom > ~he approaches Jesse and Sami. Elijah sees that there are large bowls at the tables, and smaller ones at the places~
< Sami > Soup again ~smiles, then looks at Elijah~ Well, again for most of us.
< Thom > ~Thom sits across from Sami~ We have to love the soup.
< Elijah > ~Sits down next to them but doesn't say anything~
< Thom > ~Thom grabs the ladle from the large bowl~
< Elijah > ~watches him, still not saying anything~
< Thom > ~pours some into his bowl as well as Elijah's. It appears to be a meat stew~
< Irene > ~Irene comes in shortly after, sitting on the opposite side of Thom~ Soup again?
< Thom > Yes again.
< Irene > At least its good.. or it was the last three times we've had it ~grins~
< Sami > Oh, Jesse, Irene, now that you're both here. Someone told me to tell you guys that your class is cancelled tonight. Larenth is ill today.
< Jesse > A free evening for once?
< Irene > What are we ever going to do with all that time? ~smiles~
< Elijah > ~looks slightly disappointed that the magic class had been canceled~
< Jesse > Probably should go through with the practice anyway.
< Thom > Your given a free evening and you're going to spend it on working?
< Irene > Its not work if there's no teacher there.
< Thom > Still...
< Sami > So Elijah, ~Sami changes the subject, not wanting an argument~ what do you think about this whole thing?
< Elijah > ~looks over at her~ It pretty amazing... a whole lot more than what I ever expected that for sure.
< Thom > What did you expect?
< Elijah > I don't know.... really... I've only heard a few stories... so I guess I really didn't know that much about it. I just never imagined that it was this big.
< Jesse > Yes, it is a very large group. It was certainly overwhelming the first day. ~the others nod~
< Sami > To the point of scary almost.. all those people, especially since they are older than we are.
< Elijah > It amazing to think that there could be this many people fighting for the same cause.
< Irene > And this is only the earth faction.. There are several other armies as well.
< Elijah > wow....amazing.
< Thom > None this big though.
< Irene > True, the only other army that comes this close was the Morpheran army, but they disbanded soon after our first battle.
< Sami > ~turning to Elijah~ Well it was nice meeting you, but I need to get going. See you all tomorrow.
< Thom > ~also standing up~ Yeah.. should be getting home too.
< Elijah > ~nods at her~ and me, you. all of you.
< Thom & Sami > ~they take their bowls up to the counter, and then head off, leaving the three at the table~
< Irene > ~looking down at her bowl, eventually breaking the silence~ I can already sense that tomorrow is going to be a long day...
< Elijah > ~rolls his eyes, as if to say here we go again~
< Jesse > You do have the early shift tomorrow don't you.
< Irene > Up before the sun again...
< Jesse > But that's not it is it?
< Irene > Must going to be a general day. Or someone's coming for a talk, you know how boring that is.
< Elijah > ~watches her closely, knowing that she can sense something. For the fact that he's seen her a thousand times~
< Irene > But I can't quite figure it out.
< Jesse > I hope your wrong about the talk. Last time, when General Khan came I thought I was going to fall asleep.
< Irene > At least you didn't.. I think about half the group was.
< Jesse > Though that last part with the horn blast was amusing if not startling.
< Irene > I think he has to end all his speeches that way. Have to wake the men some how ~grins~
< Jesse > ~turns to Elijah~ They did do away with the guest speakers I hope in your time?
< Elijah > I don't know of any if they have any. Of course there isn't a big army like this. Just a few of us here and there.
< Jesse > Consider yourself lucky that way. Always preferred small groups.
< Elijah > Yeah it's nice. Except for the fact that half of them are my family.
< Irene > At least you know them.. Though I think we're starting to know more people.
< Jesse > Forgetting their names constantly, but yes.
< Elijah > ~grins~ Yeah, but sometimes they know me too well, and that's what's bad about it.
< Irene > Though its not necessarily entirely bad.
< Elijah > No, I didn't say that. I have a young cousin, whom I spend a lot of time, with and really enjoy being around. My mother is the worst of them all though. But we won't get into that. I’d bore you to death about that kind of stuff.
< Jesse > Probably should head out if we are to do some practicing, that way we'll still have natural light.
< Irene > Whenever you all are ready.
< Elijah > ~smiles looking impatient~
< Jesse & Irene > ~the two stand, taking their bowls~
< Elijah > ~stands up also, following their example, picks up his bowl~
< Jesse & Irene > ~they take it to the counter, and then head for the door~
< Elijah > ~follows, with a little bounce in his step~
< Irene > Let's take the quick way, ready for teleportation?
< Jesse > ~nods~
< Elijah > ~nods also~
< Cougar > ~they vanish, reappearing in a meadow area of the woods. In fact, Elijah recognizes it as the place where Irene had taken him in his own time~
< Elijah > ~looks around in amusement~
< Jesse > ~looks up at the sky~ Couple of hours of sunlight.
< Irene > Then we should work on a little target practice then?
< Jesse > ~turns to Elijah~ What's your element?
< Elijah > Water.
< Irene > Interesting, haven't met too many of those.
< Elijah > Most of the magic that I've learned is from people who have the element of fire, so that's about the only magic I know.
< Irene > You can do fire magic even with a water element? ~looks surprised~
< Elijah > Yep.
< Irene > How is that possible?
< Elijah > ~shrugs~ I don't know. I've just been told my element is water and I've only been taught fire, so I guess it's possible.
< Irene > Then can you do this? ~she holds up her hand and a ball of flame ignites in her hand~
< Elijah > I can try. ~he concentrates on his hand and soon a flame ignites in his hand, but is a slight blue/black color~
< Jesse > Your spirit animal must be fire then for this to be possible?
< Elijah > ~shrugs~ I'm not really sure. I know my SA is the raccoon, but I've never met it, like mother who talks to hers all the time
< Jesse > They generally come and go as they please. He will approach you one day, when you need him.
< Irene > The male spirit animals tend to be a bit more random.. ~she has the ball of fire shrink.~
< Elijah > ~also lets his die~
< Cougar > ~she turns slightly, then blows on it. The ball shoots out of her hand, blazing wildly and it strikes a rock several yards away. Causes nothing but a charred mark~
< Elijah > ~looks at her, strangely, but says or does nothing~
< Irene > ~looks over at him~ What?
< Elijah > oh nothing. ~thinking of his first lesson~
< Jesse > ~Jesse seems to be weaving something in the air with his hands, the rock that Irene had hit explodes~
< Elijah > ~watches with curiosity~
< Irene > ~look at Jesse~ Show off ~smiling~
< Elijah > Hey when you’re a magician you have the right to show off.
< Irene > Oh how I know that. ~she fires off a long beam, that encircles the pieces of the rock. The ground turns to tan flames, then vanishes leaving the newly melded rock standing. She then turns to Elijah~ Might want to cool it off a bit. Don't need the grass around it igniting..
< Elijah > ~thinks for a moment. Then a light sprinkle starts coming down from the sky, but there is no clouds~
< Irene > ~she moves under one of the tree branches to avoid getting wet~
< Jesse > ~smiling at her~ Its not like its going to make you melt.
< Elijah > Yeah, I love the rain. It's a wonderful thing.
< Irene > That's because you ~looking at Elijah~ are water, and you ~to Jesse~ are air. I'm fire.. fire and water don't tend to go along let alone feline and water.
< Elijah > that's true. ~the rain stops when the ground is cool again~
< Irene > ~walks out from under the tree slowly~
< Jesse > ~is weaving the air again~
< Elijah > ~looks down at his hands, not sure what to do next~
< Jesse > ~a ripple is seen in the air a foot from Jesse~
< Elijah > ~watches carefully~
< Irene > ~looks over at Elijah~ This is our little target practice. He creates something and I try to hit it, and the other way around as well.
< Jesse > ~the ripple begins to take the form of a small clear dragon that begins to move about~
< Elijah > ~nods with amusement~
< Irene > ~turns to the ripple, watching it, then ducks quickly as it whips past her. Turns and fires at it, turning it black where she hit it~
< Dragon > ~it turns and heads toward Elijah~
< Elijah > ~he quickly fires a ball of black at it, which freezes it on the spot~
< Jesse > ~is pulling at the air~ hmm...
< Elijah > ~grins at him~
< Jesse > ~the air around it begins to swirl as if he's trying to unfreeze it~
< Elijah > ~he quickly shoots a couple more balls at it. That air also freezes.~
< Irene > ~fires a beam at the frozen mess of air~
< Elijah > ~the beam hits the ice, but it doesn't do anything except to turn it to a clear color instead of the shade of black it was originally~
< Irene > Wasn't quite what I had in mind... pretty though. ~smiles~
< Elijah > Thank you, but to let you in on a little hint. The ice won't last much more than a couple more hits. See how it changed colors.
< Irene > ~nods, moves her hands in front of her, and a steady flaming beam hits it~
< Elijah > ~shortly after ten or so fire balls the ice melted~ See what did I tell you.
< Jesse > ~falls back slightly as the air loosened suddenly. The dragon vanishes~
< Elijah > ~looks at him concerned~ Are you ok?
< Jesse > ~had caught his balance before falling~ Yeah. Nice shot though.
< Elijah > Thank you.
< Cougar > ~time jump about an hour later~
< Jesse > ~asking Elijah~ Can you do shields?
< Elijah > Umm... ~thinks for a moment~ The only one that I know of is a water dome.
< Irene > Bet that would be handy against a fire attack.
< Elijah > ~nods~
< Jesse > I can only do a modest shield at the time.
< Irene > haven't gotten to far with the shields yet... but I'm still working on it ~looks at Jesse as if she expected him to say something about it~
< Jesse > ~looking up at the sky~ Getting dark. Better get going. ~turns to Elijah, bowing~ Nice to meet you, and I shall see you tomorrow.
< Elijah > ok, nice to meet you also.
< Jesse > ~he heads into the woods toward town~
< Irene > ~holds her hand up and a clear ball with fire light inside of it appears, lighting up the area~ Perhaps we should as well turn in. Morning will approach very quickly.
< Elijah > K, where shall we go?
< Irene > Back to the base. There is an extra room that you can take.
< Elijah > cool.
< Irene > ~they teleport to base. She leads him to the room. It is on the end, with a window facing out over the training grounds~
< Elijah > ~looks at her and then the room~ Thank you. I guess I'll see you in the morning then. Since it's going to be a few days before I get back.
< Irene > ~nods~ Rest well. ~she leaves him, heading down the hallway~
< Elijah > ~he goes over to the window and looks out for a few minutes, then sits down at the bed, trying to clear his mind before he laid down. When he decides that it was no use, he takes off his boots and lays down. He can't sleep so he stares at the wall. Eventually, ,because he's had a long day, he falls into a deep sleep.
< Irene > Morning approaches, and those who had stayed at the base begin their morning routine. Irene had already left on her shift. Elijah is awakened by shouting and hoof beats, but they seem to be in his head rather than out loud~
< Elijah > ~he sits up startled. He quickly rushes to the window to see. Nothing seems to be out there, but then there seems to be movement in the direction of the building that he and Irene had passed the day before. A lone figure emerges, galloping rapidly toward the base. Fear crosses his face. Not sure what is going on. He tries to look closer~
< Irene > ~as she approaches the base, Irene leaps off the horse running up to the entrance where she meets up with the General who had seen her coming. He then quickly runs inside and a horn sounds loudly~
< Elijah > ~he covers his ears, but the sounds are still there. There is a heavy sound of hoof beats inside his head. He sits down quickly, for the sound is making a sharp pain in his head~
< Irene > ~Irene grabs the reins of her horse, her sword appears in her hand. She quickly speaks to the horse in Nathadian, which Elijah can here but not understand, and the horse takes off for the stable. Rapidly the army arrives, fully dressed in armor ready for a battle~
< Jesse > ~Jesse had ran up to Irene once he arrived. Again Elijah hears~ What is going on?
< Elijah > ~shakes his head as if it will shake all the sounds away~
< Irene > ~breathing hard~ The sword... the dark sword... we are under attack. ~from the far side, another army approaches, their leader on a horse in front. Sami and Thom have now joined up with Irene and Jesse~
< Thom > Does he have what I think he has? ~his voice dropping off~
< Sami > I thought it was guarded against this?
< Irene > We all did.. ~the two armies face off, no sound or movement on either side~
< Elijah > ~Elijah let's out a loud scream and the pain seems to disappear shortly after. He makes his way back up to the window. The sight that he sees isn't a pretty one. He lets out a gasp of horror. The window seems to be allowing him to get closer views that a window should. He is able to see the leader of the other side as well as the earthen army~
< Scene > ~the cloaked leader's horse rears up and he raises the sword of darkness. Chaos erupts as the two sides rush together. Jesse and Irene stay fairly close while Elijah looses track of where Sami and Thom went. Irene uses her sword as Jesse goes back and forth between the bow and arrow and the sword. Several moments into the battle, Irene is fighting with a swordsman. Elijah notices the leader of the army in their general area. He also begins to recognize who this leader is~
< Elijah > ~he watches intensely not sure what to do~ Darrin????
< Scene > ~Darrin has moved toward Irene. No one around seems to notice him there yet. Irene is too focused on her opponent~
< Elijah > ~he sees him. He screams.~ Irene!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOOK OUT BEHIND YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ~even though he knows that she cannot hear~
< Scene > ~Irene and her opponent circle quickly before she moves forward, driving the sword into him. Moves/hops backward as he falls. She falls back as Darrin had moved in place of her fallen opponent and kicked her backward. She hits the ground looking up at him, her sword behind her. He whips the sword down, slashing her across the left side of her face. She cries out~
< Elijah > oh, no. ~he cringes at the sound~
< Darrin > ~raises his sword up, but not quite in an attack mode~
< Irene > Who are you. ~growls lowly~
< Elijah > Darrin don't do it. Please don't do it. ~stops suddenly thinking about the side that he's fighting for~
< Darrin > ~all Elijah hears of Darrin's answer~ Darrin. ~then he sees an arrow strike him in the back, Jesse had heard Irene and moved over to help~
< Elijah > ~watches as if were an exciting TV program but more realistic~
< Scene > ~Darrin moves back, nearly disappearing into the surrounding fighters. Irene gets up quickly, nodding to Jesse's question. They are immediately attacked, and are pulled apart slightly. Irene locked swords with her new opponent. He spun her slightly so that she looked up to see Darrin running at Jesse from behind~
< Irene > NO! JESSE! ~she screams as Darrin's sword meets flesh. Jesse falls, and Darrin, laughing vanishes back into the battle~
< Elijah > NOOOOO!!!!!! ~Elijah screams, almost falling out of the window~
< Irene > ~pushes hard at her opponent, knocking him back and down. Runs to Jesse. Kneeling at his side.~
< Elijah > ~the window almost seems to pull his view out to the broad prospective. The other army already seems to be pulling back as less and less of the earthen army is there to oppose them. Can't seem to pull himself away from the window, even though that is the only thing he wants. Its almost as if there is a force making him watch~
< Irene > ~stands up looking out at the battle. The opposing force has moved further back. She moves her sword down to keep her balance, looking for anyone left.~
< Sami > ~Two figures approach Irene; Thom and Sami. Once seeing her they quickly run to her~ Are you alright?
< Irene > ~her voice is harsh, and quiet~ no...
< Rider > ~a rider seems to be approaching them rapidly~
< Elijah > ~watches in silence. Thom had walked up to Irene, turning in time to see Sami taken by the rider. Elijah hears none of the exchange between them. But seems to know what was said. He is awe struck by the image~
< Irene > ~Irene watches the leaving victorious army. Elijah hears what’s on her mind. I will not rest until that sword is back where it belongs, Darrin. I will do what it takes to see that you pay for this.
< Elijah > ~whispers to him self~ And only I know what will happen next.
< Irene > ~she stumbles slightly, and Thom grabs her by the arm to help steady her. They slowly make their way back toward base~
< Elijah > ~Elijah feels the force let go of him and he slides back to the floor. He puts his head in his hands~
< Irene > ~they enter the base. Thom having to slow down more to keep Irene from falling. The sword clatters to the ground as she lost grip on it, she then has it vanish~
< Elijah > ~he hears that they are near the door, so he quickly gets up and heads down to help. When he gets down there to help, he goes over and helps Thom support Irene~
< Irene > ~she looks up at him briefly, both seem to be glad for the help, but neither says a word. Irene's cut on her face looks deep~
< Elijah > ~he slightly grimaces at the sight of it, but doesn't say anything~
< Irene > ~she then loses unconsciousness. They are headed for the med room, a bit faster before now with Elijah's help~
< Thom > ~once there, they lay her on the cot. Thom turns and begins going through the cupboards.~
< Elijah > ~something in Elijah's mind tells him to go to the doorway. He walks to the door, not sure why. The instant he reaches the door, he is facing the kitchen in his own time. Where he had left what seemed like a day ago~
Part 2