Phoeniare smiled at the little happy outburst, going as far as to let out a happy chuckle. The action transformed her appearance totally. Her hair, which was a teal green, slowly smoothed out into a pale field gold colour, a shade that wasn't near as rich and dark as her golden eyes. She also seemed less guarded, less in control and all over much more 'normal', not so much like a... perhaps a soldier. Yes, she did resemble a fighter when she wasn't laughing or smiling.

She grinned and started to answer, but saw Lusalma turn around. Her mouth was open slightly and her smile slid onto a look of confusion, straight into a look of curiosity. She realised that the sprightly young girl was looking at the workers who were in turn staring at her. Phee frowned slightly as she looked on, watching an immense power come forth from the girl. Of course there was nothing visual, but she could feel it, and also see the outcome. The frown slowly slid away as she saw the girl turn back. She mentioned nothing as the other looked up from under her eyelashes.

Instead of pointing out anything, she gave a simple and very subtle look that showed she was definitely impressed, then looked down for a moment. "I would be glad to be your friend" she said in reply, looking back at Lusalma.

However she was immediately distracted by another individual in the group. She was leaving suddenly. The only response Phoeniare gave was a frown, as she didn't really know the individual that had to rush off.

Smiling at Tanit as she left and hoping she would see her again someday, Lusalma's eyes then went wide at the glint of gold and glanced at the others for their reaction, seeing nothing so far Lusalma relaxed and having noticed Phee's color changed looked at her and watched. Seeing no response to her statement towards the workers Lusalma smiled shyly and asked in a low voice, "I don't really know how I do that, with the workers...that's why I came here to Mene, or one of the reasons....but if I may ask, why the color change? I think it was pretty..." Looking at Alak while Lusalma waited for Phee's answer Lusalma hoped that her embarrassed blush would go down soon.

Phee had looked down for a moment at the table, one of her bejeweled fingers ringing circles around on the table. A very faint scratching sounded from the wood, complaining in its own little language about the nails scratching against it. However Pheoniare got distracted when Lusalma began to speak again, hearing her clearly above the noise.

"It's an impressive gift you have" she said at first when hearing her reply. She seemed a little flustered about the next comment the girl made, a hand moving up to her blond locks, fingers tracing through the tendrils delicately. Subconsciously, the tips of her hair slowly became teal, though the rest of her thick, straight main remained blond.

"Colour change?" she muttered, wide eyed, looking down at the tips, suddenly realising the colour had changed back to teal. She seemed to stare at her hair for a moment, and soon, from root to tip, it became a pale pink colour. She looked back up and smiled, her hair glittering in the smoke filled room. Her eyes were closed as she smiled happily, mouth closed, but as she opened her eyes, a teal colour had invaded them instead of her hair.

"It just happens sometimes" she said with a shrug, fingers still flicking with her hair. However she soon dropped her tendrils, spreading her hands out on the table, flecked with bits of mud and dirt. "I just want to ask" she said, seeming totally involved with Lusalma, "But what would you intend to use your powers for?" she was so curious, and couldn't help but ask.

Smiling slightly at the interest Lusalma stretched her hands out in front of her and staring at her work worn hands grinned with a slight sadness and replied thoughtfully to her hands, "I don't really know the extent or weaknesses of this...power so I can't really know what I can do...but I think if I could really do something with this I would want to help heal...after all, that's my life's work!" Finishing with a happy thought Lusalma smiled at Phee and glanced sideways at the patiently waiting server.

Realizing how long she had kept her waiting she glanced back very quickly, alert for any response from Phee, and stated quickly, "Tonight's special please, and if you have it: can you please out some doggie bags or containers of some sort for later? Also please be ready for the others orders, please." Finishing the order Lusalma glanced shyly at Phee, wondering if she was being too commanding or too abrupt...

((That's fine Doll, we'll figure out how to keep going. you just do what you can to catch up when you can ;) Nice write out. Lusa >.> the group is staying with Alana at her place because the inns are full. besides, alak likes quiet places. lolz.))

Alak leaned back comfortably in his chair as they all talked amongst themselves. It was quite a different experience for him, but he enjoyed it. A niggling feeling in the back of his mind made him wonder just how long it could last? He pushed the dismal thought aside. Their company had made him forget for a moment the unpleasant surroundings. Why ruin the camaraderie now with senses of doubt?

A thin purple eyebrow rose in humor at Lusalma's rapid questions. So it seemed this was all natural for the girl and she took the characteristic with ease, maybe even embraced it.

He nodded at Alana's sensible suggestion. One by one, the girls began to introduce themselves. Lusalma and Pheonaire seemed to hit things off immediately. He chuckled softly for a brief moment at Pheonaire's hint of surprise at Lusalma's frank outburst and request for friendship. Alak wondered if Lusalma had that affect on everyone, no matter what their origin.

"Miss Phee," he stated to confirm the shorter version of her name. "Item retriever?" he thought to himself and wondered what that meant. So she is paid, probably by wealthy people, to find missing items? He had never heard of such a profession, but thought it sounded interesting.

"Luck had nothing to do with our meeting, I suppose," Alak continued with a content smile still on his face. He was never a strong believer in destiny, and felt that people walked the paths they chose which could frequently change. However, more often than not he had begun to feel that there was some powerful force...perhaps Fate...that put people close to each for a reason. What that reason could possibly be, Alak had no idea. He ended his mystifying statement without further comment.

He watched Phee laugh outloud at Lusalma's outburst. Soon, her physical features changed. Alak tilted his head to the side slightly as he watched with interest. Was it like Glamor that the fairies and elves used? Her dark colors became light and she now resembled the sun instead of a pale moon. She also looked far more gentle than her stern defiant self belied earlier. Alak did not question her. If she meant for them to know, she would surely tell them what had just happened with her hair color.

Lusalma turned around and the eyes at the table followed hers to find a group of men staring lecherously at the cluster of women. Oh dear...I hope I haven't led them to a bind...Alak thought. A frown slid across his lips but he checked it in place. The men didn't even seem to notice him, which was probably a godsend. The thought never crossed Alak's mind but anyone with any sense would assume Alak to be a pimp of some sort, or perhaps a lecher, to have so many women around him in this type of place at this time of night. Again, it was fortunate Alak never thought this, otherwise he would have blushed unbearably.

Lusalma's voice lowered as she spoke to them and Alak felt a slight shiver run through him. He glanced at the other women, seeing that they must have felt it too. The men promptly turned around and returned to their drinks as if there were no girls in the bar whatsoever. Alak's smile returned. He had felt a similar power from her before. What was it? Some sort of hypnosis?

She turned back to the table bashfully. Alak saw the embarrassment in her face and his eyes widened. She glanced toward him. The expression changed her appearance and made her seem a bit more delicate or vulnerable. "A mystery..." he muttered to himself as he considered what had just occurred, remembering what she had told him earlier.

Before Tanit could introduce herself, a black raven fluttered through the window, stirring up a bit of a commotion and landed on her shoulder. Alak watched her remove the note tied to the bird's leg. Her eyes spoke nothing of what was on the parchment. She stood in one fluid motion and excused herself.

Alak nodded to her, "Take care." He was somewhat disheartened that Tanit had to leave so soon. But duty called. Hopefully they would meet again and he could learn more about her as well.

Once again, Lusalma was the first to ask a question. This time it concerned Phee's hair color. The woman looked surprised for a moment at her hair. Now it went from the process of gold to teal to pink. Both of Alak's eyebrows rose this time. Phee looked like she went into a moment of meditation. When she opened her eyes, they were no longer gold but teal.

She nonchalantly shrugged. Alak wondered if this was her true form, or was it one of the others, or none. Now it was Pheonaire who asked a personal question. Alak tried not to look to interested in Lusalma's answer. However, she didn't seem uncomfortable at all about the question and answered thoughtfully.

Alak noticed the waitress who kept tactfully away from the company as she waited. "Ah...sorry miss," he apologized. Lusalma ordered abruptly in almost a commanding tone. Alak hadn't even looked at the menu. He wondered what the "Tonight Special" was. At a glance he read: 1/2 lb of Roast Pork and gravy, Harvest Sweet Potatoes, Fresh Vegetables, and Rice Wine.

"I'll have the same miss, but water is fine instead of wine," he said. "And an order of Sweet Glazed Rolls," he added, thinking Lusalma must have forgotten. "Thank you."

After the Phee's order:

Once she had all their orders, the waitress carried on.

Alak looked around and finally introduced himself. "I am Alaktonroos. But please call me Alak. I suppose I am here because it seems like a profitable place to settle. I am a travelling merchant...or rather I was. But I was robbed of most of my belongs awhile back."

He added with a chuckle as a thought came to him, "It may have been a sign that I should try something new. It seems you all have very interesting reasons for being here." He bowed his head and said finally, "If I may be presumptuous in saying, I hope that we can help each other."

Alak was not use to getting to know people too well. But he felt he could welcome the change of pace here in Mene.

{wow now THAT was an epic catching up post =3 hehe}

Phee looked at both Lusalma and Alak as they ordered, and felt a bit behind. She looked through the dishes quickly and picked out a couple she wanted. She hummed, finger sliding down the pages as her two other companions made their decisions. It didn't take her long to reach hers, and she began to tell the waitress her order with a glint in her pink eyes. "I'll have the leg of lamb." the waitress nodded, and began to write "The full leg" Phoeniare confirmed, and the waitress widened her eyes. However she said nothing, and simply continued to scribble down more "Turkey leg..." she continued, squinting at the menu for a couple of other things she might like, finger still running down the thick paper "the honey glazed chicken and also the special" She nodded "Make sure the rice wine is a full bottle, and ass an extra serving of vegetables."

She seemed very happy with her order, but by the look on the waitress' face it was obvious the cook would not appreciate such hefty demand. Sure, Lusalma had been very direct about what she wanted, which Phee easily respected, but the colour changing girl had high demands. She smiled though, excited about the large meal to come. She hadn't eaten for days, though she could have easily afforded it. She had been too busy and too cautious to wander in to any of the Inns or Taverns of Mene. She hadn't been able to scout the place out before.

She then turned to Alak, listening to his introduction, as it was obvious the table was expecting to finally hear his little story. Phee started to feel a little self conscious, knowing her and Lusalma had hogged most of the talk time so far. However Phee knew she could make up for it.

"Your belongings were robbed?" asked the newcomer, eyes faintly glimmering as a deep red colour bled into the pink slowly, as if staining a rich, silky fabric. "If you can tell me what kind of people took them and where it happened" she began, giving a shrug "If there was anything valuable for you, I could retrieve it" This probably cleared up her job description a little, as most people simply thought she recovered lost items. Oh no, she mostly dealt with stolen items, and worked for whoever could afford her services, as she had never had any friends during the course of her work. However she felt warmed at this company, and uncharacteristically felt compelled to help out a little, as long as they stayed in a group.

"It would be no trouble for me" she said, her palms facing up as she made a nonchalant gesture. It was all completely natural as, yes, it was an easy job for her. She also enjoyed it, and more so she enjoyed helping people she liked.

Alana watched these other people with a straight face. She waved the waitress away with a flick of her hand. She wouldnt eat at an inn if she was starving. She watched the others interact with interest although not saying a word herself. She was wondering what made them so comfortable around each other. Why had they all met? What made her invite them to her house? She had never done anything like that before. It was all so strange.

She remembered her childhood. Humans never did like an elf child. She never had any friends. She wished she could have been more open as a child. Maybe it would have made her a more open adult.

"Alana come here." Said Jennifer the most popular girl in school. "I want to give you an invitation to my slumber party."

Alana walked over with a smile. The most popular girl in school wanted to hang out with her. Wow. "Thanks Jen." She took the invitation and opened it. Suddenly she realized what had happened. It was horse manure. It splattered all over her. She ran to the river crying. She didnt have parents to comfort her. She bathed herself in the river. It was cool and comfortable. The next day she dropped out of school. She knew what she needed to do. She got the bow and arrow that used to be her mothers and began to spend days at a time practising nonstop. She waited outside the school building a month later. She had her bow and arrow aimed and then fired. It was a flaming arrow and it brushed against Jennifers favorite dress she was wearing. Jennifer ran around in circles crying. The next day she died for the damage from the fire was to great for any healer. Alana had done it. She had gotten her calling. She would get revenge for others. She was Alana Vartos the assassin.

(btw im gonna start posting bits of her past so yall can know why she is the way she is)

(thanks phee. ah Tali, you read my mind ^_^)

Alak's eyes had widened only faintly as Pheonaire rattled off her large order. A true smile twitched at the edge of his lips. He supposed it was lucky that Tanit left in a hurry and Alana only wanted drink. Otherwise he would have been embarrassed that he'd have to run to a bank to afford it. But, for once, lady fortune smiled on him and allowed him to have just enough. As long as Phee gets enough to tie her over. During hard times, it was hard for people to know when or where they'd get their next meal.

Pheonaire noticeably "perked up" at the mention of Alak being robbed. Again he watched her eyes with interest as they swirled between colors. Her request made his smile widened, causing infrequently used muscles to stretch across his angular jaw. If it was possible for his stoic facial features to look as soft as a gentle priestess gazing piously at a student, they would have. Instead, he looked simply like he was in deep thought.

As he replied, his fingers went subconsciously to his silver crescent necklace. "I appreciate the offer, but the robbery happened far back in Albion. Besides, they did not take anything that could not be replaced. Everything of value I have is right here," he said as his slender index finger stroked his necklace's smooth surface. It was the truth. In the end, this was the only thing he cared about. He never took it off and even bought a sturdy chain to clasp it around his neck rather than the old black string that had began to fray. He took no chances with this memento.

"But, next time I get robbed I will be sure to hire you." Alak spoke lightheartedly now. His hand moved away from the amulet and he laced his fingers under his chin while his elbows on the table, propped the entire weight. There he rested his head and observed them all through the tendrils of his wild mane that had fallen in front of his eyes.

What had brought him to Mene indeed? True it was one of the last remaining peaceful places in Wide World. Mene was not without its problems, but for the most part people lived happy and fulfilling lives. Mene, as his new companions had implied, was a place for settling. But Alak was not one for such things. Or at least, he didn't think he was. He took up Merchanting because it gave him a reason to travel. That was all he wanted to do...wasn't it? His original intention had been to rest here for a moment, sell some goods, resupply, and make his way to the Desert Kingdoms. Or, he could explore the Ocean Kingdom before making his way to the Jungle Kingdom. These plans which were in his mind only a week ago slowly began to fade as he approached Mene. He felt so comfortable here. For a quick moment, Alak felt his eyelids begin to droop. He thought he could hear a faint lute play in the background. Alak's heart skipped a beat. His eyes flew open. He didn't know what he expected to see, but a wave of relief washed over him. It was only a lute player that had decided to entertain some guests in the back.

A silence had fallen among the group for a moment. It was not awkward, but not exactly comfortable either. Or perhaps...it was too comfortable. Alak's thoughts began to whirl but before they could articulate anything, the food had arrived. Waitresses came out in droves to deliver their, what was mostly Pheonaire's, food. It couldn't even fit on the single table and thus they had to enlist the aid of a second one that had just been cleaned off.

"Ah! That was quick!" Alak said, and rubbed his fingers together lightly. "Shall we my ladies?" He began to pass the food around to each of them, saving himself for last.

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((this is just an idea, we don't have to stick with it))

They are close...The ones I summoned are almost here...Just a little longer... The thoughts echoed out to no one in the vast empty room. Only a desire fed on the words and grew stronger with each passing second.

Just a little longer...

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The heavy hoof falls of well breed horses approached the castle gate of Northern Ruler of Ggioborus. At the same time, several other neighboring countries were getting a rude call at a late hour. A steel and wooden door, much larger than any single man could possibly open swung inward to the court of the Giant king of Riesig Frost Haube, or the Giant Frost Dome in common tongue, bellowed out to the intruder.

"Who dares disturb my peace?" Thryme booming voice carried out down the lengthy auditorium. The walls shook from his angered tone.

"Peace?" a smooth voice called out to it, so quiet Thryme had to struggle to hear. "A giant is only at peace in battle and in death...your words Lord Thryme are they not?"

Thryme could not make out the tiny image, but he could assume it was a man though it carried no scent and was covered head to toe against the cold. "Speak your name boy," Thryme said as he eyed the man warily.

"You only need to know my purpose Wizened King," the figure said with a short bow.

"Then speak or I will squash you hear and now insolent bug!" he almost bellowed again.

"I'm sure the news will interest you. The King of Mene is holding a Tournament at the end of his nation's Autumn Festival to match the best fighters in the world against each other. He requests that all lords and ladies of their kingdoms encourage a representative from their nation to apply. It is a purely diplomatic move, of course, to encourage--"

"ENOUGH!" Thryme shouted causing the ice dome to shake again. This time he didn't sound angry but excited.

"I never suspected that old fool to have the balls big enough to challenge my kingdom and its finest warrior. HA! Very well. I shall inform my men. Now be gone with you before I get hungry," he said and snapped his finger. A strong gust of wind blew from behind him toward the messenger. His cape flapped around him and his boots slid backwards across the icy path that led up toward the throne. Before he was blown away, he disappeared. The doors slammed shut, but the King stared at the spot where the stranger had stood, wondering what human could possibly wield such strength to resist his King's Gale.

Thryme

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[a little later]
In the throne room of Mene Castle, the King stood peering over the shoulder of his Wizard's scrying glass.

"What do you see Winyon?" the King murmured.

Wise Wizard Winyon raised up a hand to silence him. "I don't believe this...his signal has...disappeared. I can't find him anywhere in my glass."

The King frowned. "Has he died?"

Winyon rolled his eyes. "If he had, I would have seen it, or felt it or...something. But no. There was a rush of power around him and then...poof!" Winyon splayed his long bony fingers for visual aid.

"'Poof' You say? People don't just go 'poof'" the King argued back.

"Hmph. If you don't believe me, you get a God's Degree in Wizardry and come back and give me a second opinion," Winyon crossed his arms stubbornly.

"Fine. Fine. I'm sorry Winyon. Please, tell me how the others are doing. I shall figure out some way to see what happened to my messenger," the King finally gave in. Winyon was the only one who could really convince the King of anything. After all, he was one of the ancient founders of World Wide Web. Mene was blessed by the gods to have their own personal W. Wizard. He'd have to be a fool to argue with him. Most nations in favorable status with the gods had Wise Wizards or Witches sent their way. No one knows exactly where these men and women come from or where they were trained, but it is commonly believed that they are reincarnations of the original Wise World Wizard who had created the worlds and spread his power amongst them evenly. A W. Wizard had many abilities not common in your average wizard. The King wasn't quite sure which was what...but Winyon had told him not to bother with figuring out such things. It would only make his head hurt. Once again, whether the King liked his advice or not, Winyon had been right. He rubbed his temples to fight off a headache.

Winyon's scry shimmered as he looked toward the Eastern Kingdom. The messenger would not be able to arrive until another week. The horses weren't has swift in the sand so the messenger had been saddled with a camel imported from the very desert they were heading for. Next to the Frost Giants, this was probably the most dangerous direction. The Nomadic Desert Empire was as unpredictable and unforgiving as its leader Madam Elwarrin. She was known for inviting an enemy to supper only to knife him in the back when he turned to leave if he did not come to some agreement. Needless to say, few attempted diplomatic relations with her and her people.

The Southern Jungle Kingdom messenger was having a bit of trouble at sea. The King noted to pray for his travels as well. To the West, there were multiple messengers. One in fact, was already on her way back for she had the closest Kingom to get to.

The King sighed..."At least no surprises here..." His mind continued to worry about his subordinate despite all appearances.

(think its time to bring Alanas dad out ftw)

He stood before the king bowed low. Why a demon would bow to a king many would wonder. "Your highness" He said in a booming voice. "I have finished the job you have requested of me. I would like my next assignment. It was a hard job to kill that ogre but he is now gone." He let out an evil grin as he remembered the pain that ogre was in before he died. He liked to cause pain and he worked hard for the king of Mene in hopes that soon very soon he would be able to destroy the king and he himself can claim the throne. He may have been a demon but he stayed in human form. He had stolen the identity of some kid on his way back from farmwork. He had eaten him and achived his body. He had dark hair and blue eyes. His hair was curly and very long.

Alana watched everyone eat. She hadent ordered anything so she was not interested in food. She looked at all the people there with a sigh. She only hoped she had room enough in her house for everyone. She stared at the drow with a bored look. She looked over at the two girls who seemed best freinds the way they were talking to each other.

((Anyone having trouble posting? I can move the story forward now if they want to *flexes kingly muscles.*))

((Hehe, no I was waiting to see what Phee or Sirena were going to post or not >.< but since you asked so nicely! hehe))
Lusalma paused and watched as the food was brought, plate after plate after plate. Not knowing exactly where all that food was going to be packed away Lusalma dug into her own small meal. After several minutes of listening to the conversation around her, watching the interactions of the others patrons and savoring the flavorful, hot food Lusalma heard a wisp of music. Music that she had heard before. Looking past her group, towards the door, Lusalma waited to hear any more notes. After several moments of stiff listening Lusalma relaxed with a sigh, not thinking any more music would come.

However, once Lusalma had heard that little piece of music she started to hear more notes going on around her. Notes that were melodious and deep, notes that were quick and highg and light, acrobatic notes....dark notes. While listening Lusalma frowned, the notes were familiar, to an extent, but somehow...they were also wrong. Somehow the notes were jarring and sharp, somehow...the notes felt diseased...within several moments of this revelation Lusalma suddenly heard silence, the notes were stilled. Slightly unnerved by the abnormal behavior of the sound around her Lusalma shifted in her seat slightly and concentrated once more on her meal. Having finished before most of the others Lusalma deftly signaled to a waiting maid and holding her hand slipped the payment for mostly half of the meal on the table. Nodding the maid backed away, with the dishes and the money, and headed towards the back, the bar tender was still watching, waiting for the rest of the payment but content to let them finish before asking for the rest of the money. Lusalma smiled at the stern expression of those protecting the peace and settling deeper in her seat tuned her ears to the conversation around her and decided to calm down and watch the moods and waves around her. Happy to even be in such a warm, welcoming place...no matter how unnerving it was at times.

Phee's eyes were locked on the food as it came closer, a small smile forming softly on her pink lips. They soon opened as she plucked a large piece of meat from the lg of lamb, and she began munching. She smiled as she ate, devouring the food quickly, however with very little mess. She might have been speedy, but she certainly wasn't without table manners. This girl was obviously made for eating, as she picked her way through her food, moving from dish to dish, while happily glugging down mouthfulls of rice wine at a time. She seemed used to excessive food and drink, though it didn't necessarily show on her figure.

Sure she was curvy, but she could never be called chubby.

"Delicious" she sighed after a mouthfull of ricewine as people's plates began to be taken away. She had actually polished off one dish, but found herself with more delicious food. She saw the vegetables and started on them next, picking up each carrot and broccoli stalk one by one and popping themin her mouth. She took a moment to lightly salt the bowl before consuming it though, preffering the vegetables with added salt.

"How was everyone's meal?" she asked, her eyes a deep golden again along with her hair. No one could tell which colour was naturally hers. She preffered to think of her own natural colour being multicolour, as it was a certainly truthful statement.

By now, it was very late. The Wise Wizard Winyon had finished is observation report. Other than the mysteriously disappearing messenger, the rest seemed to be doing well. For now, the King would retire to his throne room. He had only one more report to hear tonight before he could get what little sleep his position allowed. As he leaned back in his plush throne, he brooded over thoughts of what could have happened to that messenger. The King did not know the envoys personally. The were all selected by different advisors. Even then, they were usually foreign applicants looking for easy pay in their new kingdom. On the surface, the King looked like he was merely resting, but turmoil swirled within his mind. The messenger could have been a spy. It was silly of the King to not have selected his most trusted servants to do the job. Of course, at the time he made the decision, he worried about a mole within is own ranks and wanted a the messengers to be outsiders. Now he was not so sure that had been the best plan.

The door opened. (Name?) announced himself as he gave a deep bow.

Speaking of loyal servants...the King thought with a nod and a faint smile to the dark haired boy.

Despite the young man's simple stature, he carried himself well and had a booming voice as if he could command armies. The King had taken an immediate liking to him. However, as time passed, the King had felt uneasy about the boy's eagerness to kill. He soothed his mind by convincing himself that it was not an eagerness to kill, but an eagerness to serve and protect. The King had no idea that his thoughts were being slightly manipulated by the demon in the disguise.

"Welcome (?)," the King said, motioning the boy to be at ease. "I've been waiting for you. I'm glad that you've returned safely...however, I fear I must send you off again. This time to the land of the dragons. It seems the evil black dragon twins Barragon and Burelu have been stirring up trouble in the nearby cities. They're friendly trading partners and requested I send aid. I want you to lead a team I will assemble to check things out. Remember though, I just want you to observe and assist anyone in trouble. Don't try to kill the dragons," he looked down his nose at (?). He was sure the boy, in his ambitious nature, would wholeheartedly try to slay the evil beasts. However, Barragon and Burelu had been around almost as long as Mene was officially declared a kingdom. They were insanely powerful. For the most part, they stayed to their caves, but every once in awhile, the troublemakers would decide to terrorize humans. What was worse, they liked to do it in their human forms which made them that much more difficult to attack with a mass army.

"For now, get some rest," the King continued. "I will call for you tomorrow for a full debriefing."

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((Sirena said she'd be gone for a week or two. she'll catch up for the next arc.))

Alak picked up a fork and knife and began his own way through his meal, only to look up astonished and find that Pheonaire was dutifully making her way through hers with little trouble and much speed. He'd never seen a woman, or man for that matter, take in so much food and drink without spilling a single drop or pausing for a gasp of air. Her attention seemed wholly focused on the plates before her at the moment.

Alak glanced to Alana to catch a bored look on the woman's face. Then he caught Lusalma's stunned expression. For a moment, he thought she was looking at Pheonaire, but then he noted a glazed look over her eyes. She was spacing out. The waitress came forward and Lusalma snapped back to attention. Alak wondered what had bothered her. Had she heard the music as well?

He saw her pay and was about to protest, but the waitress had already gone. Relieved that she seemed to be in higher spirits now, he let the subject drop. He'd compensate her somehow...A man's word was his dignity, or so that was what he'd been told.

Alak finished his food as well, though it seemed Pheonaire was much faster than he at eating. She must have had to eat on the run a lot. Alak was by no means a slow eater either, so he understood.

"As you said," he smiled at her, "'Delicious.'" Seeing that everyone was about ready to retire, Alak caught a waitress's eye and placed the rest of the money on the table, as well as a generous tip.

The crowd in the tavern had not thinned, and it seemed some people had been moved outside to accommodate the large number of customers. They'd want the tables Alak and the others took up immediately. He stood and pushed his seat back in.

"Thank you again," he said to Alana, "for allowing us to stay at your place."

He then turned to Pheonaire and nodded, "And thank you for joining us."

The busboy had already come to collect the tables, but hesitated when he noticed the strange group. Alak stood aside and let the boy work. With his keen ears, he heard some none-too-quiet sounds coming from the rooms above. "I suppose it's time for us to depart now. If you please?" he bowed his head at Alana for her to lead the way.

He had forgotten to ask her about that strange Herb/Music store and decided to ask her on the way. From the general direction she had given Alak and Lusalma, they would pass by it again on their way to her place.

Drakken nodded at the king and took off to his chambers. He had much to tell the king tommarrow.

___________
(meanwhile)

Alana saw them finish and stood up herself. She straightened her dress and waited for the others to get up. She hated the inn. Its why she always did her own hunting. She watched the others stand up and get there things together.

She started walking out the door. She saw some guys eyeing her as she walked by and she managed to clap one on the jaw with her bow causing the other to howl in laughter. She scowled and continued on her way. She stood out in the night air and took a deep breath. The inn smelled so fowl like stail sex and beer. She stretched a bit looking up at the sky. It was indded a beutiful night.

She headed towards her house trusting that the others would stay in wake. She passed by the herb shop and stopped. Something odd happened. She lost all track of everything. All she could hear was a gorgeous melody. She listened to it and started going towards it. Her body was moving but her mind said nto to. She tried to fight it but she couldnt all she could think of was the music.

When the herb shop came into sight, Alak opened his mouth to say something to Alana. He was going to mention, nonchalantly, his and Lusalma's strange encounter with the shop and wonder if anyone else had reported such experiences. However, he paused. No longer did the sign say "Herbs".

Alak's eyes widened as he read its new sign. "Hourglasses." His hand jumped instinctively to his charm. His moved to backpedal, but his legs felt like lead weights. He couldn't move. Then, that eerie music started playing again. First, it sounded faint and as if it came from within a memory. Then, it steadily grew louder. It surrounded him. Alak glanced around widely as if he was trapped. He looked to see if anyone had noticed. Alana and the other girls were walking along the path chatting happily. They didn't seem to see him stagger. He tried to call out for them to wait a moment. But they faded away down the street. The alley grew oppressively dark. He looked to where the shop had been and suddenly wished he hadn't. He was no longer in Mene but back in his fairy grove. The peaceful image was marred by flames rising from the houses and trees. He could smell the stench of smoke and gore and could hear the cries of classmates and neighbors. Through the flames, tall black figures darted from home to home slaying innocent fae. Alak ran to stop them, but a wall of flames rose to block him. He stumbled back and coughed. Alak felt his blue right eye ache. He clutched it tightly, praying that it wouldn't come.

"Not again! Please! Not again!" he cried out to no one over smoke filled lungs. By now he was lost in a memory of 50 years ago, completely unaware of his comrades plight.

((oops, and that's all you get for now of Alak's past ;D))

Lusalma paused in between Alana and Alak, wondering what exactly was wrong. She could hear the strains of music floating around but the real world was too riveting and interesting for her to pay attention. Glancing at Alana in wonder as she seemed to wonder off seemingly without violation and Alak staggered back and forth Lusalma was torn with indecision. Until Alak cried, "Not again! Please! Not again!" Wondering what could bring such pain into the kind drows voice Lusalma reached her hand out to help Alak stabilize and was concerned at the erratic behavior of Alana and the seeming scarcity of Phee. Thus Lusalma glanced over her shoulder trying to keep Phee and Alana in eyesight. While searching for the rest of the group Lusalmas hand settled on Alaks shoulder and her eyes snagged on the herb shop they had seen before. Lusalma's eyes seemed to be unnaturally tugged towards the shop and the music she sought to ignore grew louder but her practice with ignoring sounds she didn't want to hear and the slight trembling of Alaks shoulder caused her to turn towards him once again.

Opening her mouth Lusalma spoke...and couldn't hear herself, the music around her was too loud to hear herself speak. Irked at this new incident Lusalma turned and looked towards Alana and Phee....and saw them disappearing in the distance. Angry now at the inability for them to notice her and Alak, the music's insistent nagging, the worry at Alak's uncommon behavior Lusalma drew a deep breath, opened her mouth, and SCREAMED.

{drama drama drama!! Not entriely sure what to post...but here goes!!}

Phee had managed to finish off most of her meal, but found that she still had quite a bit of meat on the leg of lamb and also a full turkey leg. She had managed to collect together enough gold coins for her own meal and clinked them onto the table before grabbing the large meat covered bone and letting it fall into her bag. As she did so, her hair turned to a deep red, eyes sparkling a magical golden tone. Not only had the colour of her hair changed, but it became shorter, ragged and a little spikey. She seemed a little more wild now, and there were few ways of explaining this.

However she followed out happily, no men eyeing her as they still sustained bruises on their hands and fingers from her previous assault. No worries popped into the wild looking girl's head as she sauntered out, lagging behind the group. She still held the turkey leg in hand and started to rip off mouthfulls of meat, happily. She was unaware of any music or any stores, and felt a great amount of distress in realising that the others seemed to be more than aware of something she wasn't. She hadn't even realised the others had been ahead of her until Lusalma had rushed off towards Alak, and the Phee began to catch up, jogging ahead as the rest of her companions seemed to succumb to some sort of haunting.

Lusalma's scream hurt Phee's ears, and the girl's hair darkened further, became wilder and more ragged. Her skin became darker, a lovely tan molding over her flesh as she felt chills of old memories. She could not see nor hear anything supernatural, but could not help feel a daunting presence as madness seemed to overtake the others.

She was fast, fingers nimbly forcing her food into her back before reaching Lusalma and Alak, stopping just by them and grabbing both by the shoulders. She was prepared to lift the two of them in her arms and run if she wasn't given a coherent answer to her question:

"What is it?" she sounded commanding, confident and protective, eyes darting from the two souls by her to the shop to their other companion ahead. She frowned, not sure what was going on.

Lusalma gasped in more breath, ready to begin another scream when Phee grabbed her. Shocked at the sudden contact Lusalma looked to the side and saw Phee standing there, looking wild and worried. Eyes misting slightly at the worry evident in her friends eyes Lusalma sniffled quietly and grabbing Alak firmly reached up to wipe her eyes quickly with the other arm.

Relieved to know that she was not alone in worry of her friends she looked up at Phee and was opening her mouth to respond when she realized...where was Alana? Looking forward frantically Lusalma caught the bare edge of Alans cloths vanishing into the distance. Worried Lusalma looked up at Phee and feeling her eyes start to mist again, this time in worry, Lusalma firmed her chin and blurted in a slightly scratchy voice, "I was just walking beside Alak and Alana when I started hearing some music, and I saw the herb shop from before so I was slightly curious so I didn't notice immediately but..." Here Lusalma paused to think and to collect herself and realized that Alak had been hurt in some emotional manner to do what he did and Alana had been entranced or some such...this made her angry, she didn't like her friends being hurt...so Lusalma continued explaining in a low and slightly dark voice "Alak started hurting and Alana kept on going, she didn't seem to notice it, like she was entranced...but Alana started getting farther and farther ahead...and now she's almost gone, but Alak was hurting and he was out of it and I was worried..." More emotional over the recounting of the events and the renewal of worry Lusalma leaned slightly against Phee, glad to have someone who was unaffected and who cared...even if she didn't seem to hear the music...which seemed to be growing louder in defiance of her earlier scream. Lusalma felt a stirring of hot warmth flare in her chest...heralding a slow but hot burn of her rising temper.

Alana continued to walk into the herb shop that had changed. To her it was a book store. She walked inside and looked around. She didnt know why she came here. Something had grabbed her interest. There was an old lady behind the counter. She smiled at her and beconed at a nearby chair. Alana sat down at the chair and waited. Something strange was going on. She knew she was doing somthing but couldnt remember what it was. She waited patiently for the old Lady to tell her what was going on.

Alak felt arms reaching out for him. Their cold claws stabbed into his shoulders as they struggled to drag him down into the flames. He wrestled against the invisible hands. His hand went automatically to his side and slim dark fingers wrapped around the silver hilt of his sword. Something inside him, well hidden and desired to be released, tugged with a darkened smile. Alak pried his fingers away from his sword. Even in his wretched state, he could not bring himself to use it.

The halfbreed pushed the grasping hands away, unaware that he had just left some nice bruises on Lusalma and Alana's hands, and muttered in a spell in fairy tongue. For a second he shimmered and in another second he shrank. In his small form, one delicate wing as silver as the moon sprouted from his left shoulder. Being low to the ground would keep the smoke out of his lungs. His instincts knew so and, despite his frantic heartbeat, his body reacted automatically. He had to escape the burning grove. He had to run and hide. But what about the others? His thoughts pulled him back to those still struggling on to life. Alak ran without a second glance back, his tiny wing pumping to give him a boost in speed.

In reality, Alak didn't get very far. He had struggled free of his "captors" and had made it with all swiftness he could muster to the end of the ally. The sound of the music came back into focus and the smell and intensity of the illusion began to fade. Alak was shaken and his breaths came in heavy quivers. He stumbled to his knees and choked out a dry cry. Reliving that day was one nightmare he had hoped he'd never see. He clutched his fists to the pavement, ignoring the cuts the act caused on his hands. For a moment, he suspected he'd vomit. But his stomach thankfully held steady. He took a few gasps of fresh air, trying to remember where he was and what had just happened.

Alak turned around, but the ally had disappeared, as had his companions. He stood slowly, his knees still shaking, and returned to normal height. An illusion? Surely something had caused the nightmare to surface. And now, it seemed to be creating another one to confuse him from returning to the ally. Alak could still hear the faint music. Even if he was separated, if he just followed the sound, he could make it back to his companions...

Run! a voice that sounded inside his head called out. Run away! Don't look back. It's not safe. Save yourself!

Alak's eyes widened as he shook the thoughts away. "No...I-I can't," he murmured, still staring down the endless looking path.

Why? For those girls? You barely know them! Run and save yourself. It's what you do best!

Alak frowned. "No," he said out loud more firmly. "I won't turn away this time. I can change..."

The voice hissed. Before him the path began to warp and distort itself. Frightening images from his past jumped out. Alak clutched his fists, feeling the pain from his scratches intensify. The illusion blurred.

Of course! Pain broke the power over him, if only slightly. Alak clenched harder, feeling the warm blood trickle down his hand. Jaw set, he marched forward, ignoring the hazy memories. He had just begun to feel like he really could make it when, an ominous laughter rose up from behind him.

Alak turned in defense. Metal flashed before him and he ducked and rolled to the side. A blade grazed his shoulder. It may be an illusion...but it could still kill him. Alak looked around wildly toward his opponent. Red blazing eyes stared down from their pitch black host. Teeth gleamed in the night like jagged spears. The enemy raised it's arm up, holding a sword high above his head. A terrifying laugh echoed from his open mouth. Wild white hair flew about like a mane. Alak stared in utter fear. He knew that laugh, he knew those eyes, and worse yet he was all too familiar with that sword. Then, without a chance to defend himself, the blade came down.

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The old woman drank in the sight of the beautiful girl enter her trap. She smiled sweetly and clasped her finger tips together.

"My my. What does a lovely girl like you want to do with all these books?" she said in a cracked voice.

Mendira, the demoness of wanton desires and illusions, hadn't eaten in awhile. She still could remember the sting of Drakken's blow on her face and subconsciously moved her hand to where the scar would have been, had it not been for her best efforts of salvaging some virgin blood to hide it. Mendira was not alone, however.

At this very moment, her cohort Gowlemesh the demon of Nightmares and Illusions, was taking care of that annoying male that was with the group. Mendira had no use for such creatures. Only beautiful women would do. But what was keeping the other one? Surely she heard the alluring music. Then there was a third they had snatched up. When the rest fell, Mendira would give her to Gowlemesh. The atrocious demon also liked pretty young girls, but for entirely less than wholesome reasons.

"No one enters my shop without desiring something at first," Mendira continued in good humor.

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Quicker than the lightning it was forged in, Alak's blade flew from his sheath and blocked the attack. He felt power surge through his fingers and fought back the urge to use it.

Only a few seconds...that's all I need it for. He blocked a flurry a blows while he backed down the ally, hopefully closer to the shop. All the while, his opponent laughed manically.

Alak frowned. He didn't like this memory at all. "Who are you?" he asked suddenly.

The creature paused for a moment. Then, inside his head he could hear it say, Don't your recognize me Alak? I'm you. Or at least I was you 50 years ago. Hahaha! And soon, you will be me!

Alak gave a grim smile. "Do you think I spent 50 years running from my past?"

The creature merely smiled without a response.

Alak straightened. "Very well. Perhaps I have been running. But...I have not forgotten exactly what I've been running from. Trust me. Your trick are nothing compared to what I truly experienced that day."

The creature frowned and cocked its head to the side. Would you ignore the words of your own self?

Alak shook his head. "I don't know. But, what I do know," he straightened into an attack ready stance. "What I do know is that you're not me."

He charged forth at an alarming speed. The demon Gowlemesh could do nothing more than parry. The drow's foot came out and tripped the demon, knocking him to his back. Alak pointed a sword at the demon's throught.

"What! How did you know Alak?"Gowlemesh squirmed and reverted back to his original form.

Alak gave another grim smile. "I never call myself Alak in my head..."

"Fine. Then kill me," the demon cried out. "Kill me or I will face a worse punishment from her for failing."

Alak sheathed his sword and began to walk away. "I have vowed never to kill. You should know that."

"Now is not the time to be all high and mighty," the demon reached for a jagged dagger in his back pocket. He threw it at Alak with unknown speed and strength. However, Alak still dodged it with a side step.

He ignored the injured demon and made his way down the ally back to his companions. At least the outside was restored again. But the shop still showed an hourglass.

EDIT:

The demon Gowlemesh sneered. His ragged white hair faded into his skull and his smooth black complexion grew faint and greenish. Red eyes still smoldered like hot coals in black sockets. He clenched his fist before slowly standing and dusting off his tunic.

"You fool!" he hissed. Alak ignored him and continued moving forward.

Gowlemesh flicked his wrist and a smooth blade extended into his hand. At closer observation one would find that the knife did not fall from a concealed sheath but from his very flesh and bones. He dashed at Alak with the blade outstretched only to find the image he swiped at was not solid. Gowlemesh backed away quickly grasping his hand as if he touched something painful. He looked around widely.

"Your cheap parlor tricks won't keep you alive halfbreed!" he shouted, not knowing where the drow had gotten to. Frantic that Madam Mendira would punish him in the most brutal way she could imagine, he melted into the shadows to find his victim, as shadow-walking was one of the few ways one could escape he and Mendira's hateful maze.

Gowlemesh's lurking didn't take him far. For a moment, he observed new delicious, delicate, and sweet prey. When the time presented himself, he would take action.

Phee looked down with confident eyes upon Lusalma, seeing the distress there. Phoeniare hadn't always been the most useful person, but she could hold her own pretty well and knew how to handle these sorts of situations. When she felt her new friend lean closer, she wrapped a protective arm around her, and she listened to everything she said with a quiet, solid mind set. She wanted to help, and felt that perhaps trying to find Alana, as she knew that the enchantment wouldn't affecth her, though it might trap Lusalma. However, this thought was quickly ripped from her mind as Alak dashed forward and away. He didn't get far at first, se Phee stayed where she was. She had risen as soon as he had moved, but now she crouched back down, like a tiger in wait.

Her eyes were fierce and golden, hair still thick and ragged as she looked on, though it began to turn into a golden that resembled the rays of the sun during a warm, calm day under a blue sky. She was a bright little soul, one to bring colour to any situation, but would she be able to help these three suffering individuals with their torments? At least Lusalma still seemed to be in this world, while Alak was... disapearing from this one?

She had lost him, though her eyes had been on the individual the whole time. She felt a drop in her chest, one filled with fear of this situation. Her stomach began to churn unhappily, fingers almost twitching as she realised a full man was now gone from sight. She wouldn't let this cloud her head though, and gave herself only seconds to acknowledge her body's responses. Her first decision led her to turn to Lusalma, asking her to follow, "Come with me" she said simply, hands firm on the girl, leading her up kindly but swiftly. She waited a moment to see Lusalma's compliance with her wish.

If the girl would allow Phee, she would take her to the shop Alana had just walked into, and she would find the girl. She was determined to do so as it seemed Alak was somewhere unknown. They would find him at some point, surely... But for now Phoeniare focused on who could be saved, and that was Alana.

{btw... the shop you went into Talitha... Is it one that turns into whatever the person desires? Would we each see our desires or would we see a bookstore?}

( yes and yes )

{so its a desires place... but yes doesn't answer my question ><

Yes we would see a bookstore or yes we would see our desires?}

(desires)

Mendira's shop had several special qualities. First and for most, all who entered would see what it was that they desired. Through there, she would trap them in a world of desire and slowly drain away their youth and life force. Second, the shop was merely an illusion and could be spawned to trap multiple individuals in different realms at the same time. It was quite handy when several fools, as there were now, entered her shop at once.

While the woman named Alana, who had a distinct scent of demoness about her sat in oblivion, two others approached. Mendira had been concerned about the demon part of her "guest". It seemed painfully familiar and her old wound began to flare up. But with the new arrivals, she was momentarily distracted while erecting another trap for each of their desires.

The first one was easy enough. The red haired girl had come earlier with that atrocious male seeking herbs. What was it that she desired now that her friends were disappearing one by one?

The second girl was more complicated. The girl hadn't heard the music and so, it was troublesome trying to discern what her desires were. It seemed she changed frequently. Mendira tried to grasp one, but it slipped away. In an effort to stifle her rising frustration, she summoned Gowlemesh.

Her male counterpart appeared in the shadows. She recognized that it was merely a projection of his presence and that he was not truly there. After all, she had forbade him from interfering with her "work" unless specifically necessary. He also seemed to be stalking the girls as well.

What happened to the male? she asked immediately with a frown.

He...got away from me. But I have another idea. You seem to be having trouble with the changing one. Give her to me! I will enjoy entertaining her. If the shadowy image could smile, Mendira would have seen a gruesome one. Gowlemesh was disgusting even to her, but she had to admit he was useful when it came to pest control.

She ignored his request for the moment. He got away?! Be sure he doesn't come here. Else it will be your head!

Gowlemesh scowled. He couldn't wait to be rid of this bitch demoness. How were they possibly grouped together? Why? Do you fear the halfbreed? he countered with a level tone. Can you not discern his desires even with the music box? Would it delight you to know? Give me the girl then, both of them, and I will reveal his secrets to you. Gowlemesh's laugh echoed around Mendira.

Silence fool! Why would I make such a deal with you? I obviously have the upper hand. You concentrate on the third girl and the male, and I will handle the rest.

Mendira cut ties with Gowlemesh and he returned his full attention to outside the shop. The girls had picked themselves up and were making their way inside. Gowlemesh checked to see if Alak was nearby. He still seemed lost in the illusionary maze despite overcoming Gowlemesh's dark projection of the half-drow. The demon smiled.

"Come to me sweetling..." he whispered and reached a hand out to the one supporting the red head. "There is nothing there for you. Follow me and I will show you wonderful things. Things that will make your heart pound. Come to me..."

His chilling fingers laced around the girl's shoulders, prepared to throw her into his realm of nightmares.

((Phee can either be caught in Gowlemesh's trap, escape and enter the shop with Lusalma, or be rescued by Alak.))

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