So. You know the story. Most everyone knows the story of the woman who could bring life to the dolls. Grandmother, we called her. She was a wonderful woman, full of life and hope. She left one day, moving on from the dolls to pursue a family.

Her treasured friend, Valiant, detested her decision. He became a twisted creature, and caused such havoc. Darkness spread, infecting the dolls and the world around them. When Grandmother's child, a woman we called Mother, returned ... she found that things were very different. While Mother was able to bring life to new dolls, Valiant was nowhere to be found.

It wasn't until Mother's old age when things changed. Valiant reappeared, taking the appearance of Ink Stain. Stain was a blight on the dolls, and war erupted as the dolls tried to defend Mother.

The war ended with Mother's sacrifice. Her son, Seth, was the last of their line. He, too, harbors the power to bring life to the dolls. The only issue? He hated them. He'd seen the life they'd stolen from Mother, watching his young mother fade into an elder. It took her life to sustain them. Seth didn't want that; he said he wanted nothing to do with the dolls.

Things changed. With Mother gone, Seth was known as "Father," the only one who could save the dolls. Slowly, he came to the realization that if he didn't fight for them, they'd die. All of their lives were in his hands now.

Seth slowly stopped pushing everyone away, grudgingly taking the responsibility of the dolls. His dear friend, Calla, watched as he became a silent shadow of his former self. He seemed kind and soft, but he spoke rarely. He didn't want company, he didn't want help, nor friendship. Calla saw Seth change - and it wasn't for the better, despite his decision to save the dolls.

- Esmme's Characters -

Seth Arda

Before

SPOILERX

After



Hair and eyes: Black hair, blue eyes. After the change, his hair has more of a silvered hue, though is still dark.
Personality: Seth has always been the stubborn sort. He was once friendly and open to everyone he knew, but after he went away to college and returned, he has been ... awkward, at best. Recently, he's been quiet and doesn't speak to many.
Current history: Seth grew up with the dolls. His best friend was one - Calla knew his every secret and thought throughout his childhood. Seth moved away to go to college in his teen years, and when he returned he seemed ... off. Like he wasn't sure about the dolls, especially after seeing how they'd prematurely aged his mother.

It wasn't until after Ink Stain's war that Seth began to take responsibility for the dolls. This, of course, was where we left off. Mother passed away, and Seth grudgingly took his burden. Then, everything changed.

Lost

After

SPOILERX

Before



Hair and eyes: Black hair, black eyes. After the change his hair is silvery white, and his eyes gained a lavender hue.
Personality: Quiet, keeps to himself. Lost was always considered the odd one. He is gentle-hearted, and fond of music and peaceful waters.
History: Lost was raised as a doll with his brother, Life. It wasn't until he met Isis that he realized how much he needed a friend. They swiftly became more, and through trials untold ended up being married. It seemed, however, that they wouldn't stay that way.

After the battle, Lost and Isis rushed to help Seth. Calla let them down nearby. Things changed - they were separated. This time, it was more than distance. No memory, no thought of one another ... and completely different bodies. They were no longer dolls.

Lost has been given a drow body, and placed into the most curious of circumstances that he doesn't understand.

John Snow

After

SPOILERX

Before



Hair and eyes: Once white hair and grey eyes, Snow now has black hair and grey eyes.
Personality: Snow has always been competitive, and will not back down from a fight. His fiery spirit brought him back to life ... but it also gave him the undying will to best others.
History: Snow was once a good doll, and was well-trained in the fighting arts. It wasn't until his death in the fountain that things changed. He returned to life, only to be weak and unable to do much of anything. Ink Stain saved him, offering him more life and strength. He accepted, and then grew in strength until he contested the darkness for his own share in leadership.

Forgotten was his past, and he moved on to try to kill "Father." By killing Seth, Snow would gain control of the dolls ... and there would be no light to stop the darkness. His plan, however, failed upon Calla's arrival.

Just as everyone else, things changed for Snow as well. He woke later in a new body - this one just as sick as his last. As a Navir, he realized that he needed to feed. This time, he didn't have the darkness to save him. Snow would need to find Seth - if the boy was still alive.

His current plan is to marry into the Alvaren people as a king by marrying Isis, the king's daughter. This grants him more power in both of their races, and gives him the opportunity to inspire war. He is, however, seemingly fighting for peace.

Merril

SPOILERX

Hair and eyes: Short black hair with a few braids in it; bright green eyes.
Race: Alvaren - though the markings on her face suggest lower class
Personality: Naive, trusting, and sort of ditsy, Merril stumbles around like a lost kitten. She's like a child in many ways, and speaks her mind in every situation. She seems to lack judgement when it comes to evil, and has an odd perspective on the Navir - they could be friends, in her opinion.
History: Merril was born and raised in the elven alienage of the nearest human town. Elves are spit upon, treated like trash, and often enslaved in the human cities. After a rough life, her mother sold her into service to an Alvaren lord. He accepted Merril as a sister/future caretaker for his daughter, Calla, and brought Merril out of poverty. Still, Merril is frowned upon by many Alvaren, though her presence is tolerated because she's just as harmless as can be.

New world notes:

The realm is on the brink of civil war. The many races are vying for control of the land. There used to be peace, but that treaty is ancient, and has been seen as merely a limitation on the stronger races.

The boldest races now fight for control of the land - Men, elves, drow - there are other races that fight as well, but there is a predominate number of the previously listed three races. It is suspected that one of the three will rule the realm if a war starts.

Some races desire peace, and fight only out of necessity. They work hard at keeping the peace, despite how it disintegrates around them.

Other races, however, use their power to man-handle the situations at hand. The treaty won't last much longer. There is no tolerance for peace - not anymore.

Drow

The dark elves, known as drow, lead horrid lives. Any amount of torture, thievery, assassination, and manipulation happens within their culture. They are known for their evil ways, and are the most hated race in the realm merely out of reputation. They are excellent fighters, and use force to gain what they want. There is no trust in their people - no loyalty, even among their own kin and family.

The households are run by females - a matriarchy - and it is brutally kept ready for war. The drow live in caverns and caves, and are sensitive to light.

Alvaren

The Alvaren are nearly the opposite of the drow, their dark cousins. The Alvaren strive to care for the world they live in, and often push for peace. They will not, however, stand idle and "peaceful" while their cousins try to dominate.

The Alvaren are slight of build, graceful, and often idolized for their beauty and wisdom among other races.

Navir

Easily mistaken for their lighter Alvaren counterparts, the Navir are sickening creatures. They are easily overlooked, and are a minority in the war. They appear in all ways to be elves, and usually don't deny the claim. However, they have a darker side. The best way to think of them is "vampire." They have vampiric abilities and strengths, and unique weaknesses.

The Navir are susceptible to water, for example. They also are purely carnivorous, and rarely eat vegetation. Still, they are working their way into the Alvaren in an attempt to take their place in the war.

Let the story begin.

Seth sat on his bed, shoulders slumped. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. The youth's head was in his hands, and he fought to keep his energy from caving around him. He could feel it: each life force of every doll was like a pinpoint to him, a small spark that he could feel. The warmth of every doll was small, but one stood out from the others. It was bigger, stronger - brighter.

Blue eyes lifted, and Seth's tired gaze moved to the wall beside his bed. On the other side of that room was Calla's room. That was where the light came from. Yet, instead of seeing comfort, Seth saw obligation. He saw a struggle, and a friend he couldn't ask anything more of. She'd offered. She'd tried. Calla had given him everything, and Seth had thrown it away. He kept pushing her, forcing her back. Why?

She'd once been a doll. Seth used to think that was it. Perhaps it still was. The male sighed to himself, rubbing his eyes. He needed to eat. He hadn't eaten all day, and was starting to feel that empty pang of hunger in the pit of his stomach. Besides, his power was slowly ebbing to a low - he needed to replenish it.

As he wandered the halls, he avoided the few dolls who lingered at this late hour. It was nearly midnight, and though there were a few groups still awake, most dolls had retired to their rooms. Ever since Ink Stain's war, the dolls had pulled back their "curfew." Darkness wasn't a friend.

Seth reached the kitchen, pulling a fruit from the counter. He'd spent the day healing the dolls, bringing others to life in the place of the fallen. It was a long day, and a hard one. The male shook his head, setting the apple aside after a single bite. He wasn't hungry. He wanted Calla. Yet, he didn't. Why couldn't he just embrace the fact that he missed the girl? Seth looked toward the doorway at the sound of an opening door, a flicker of hope blooming in him. Calla?

He waited. Then ... movement. But this wasn't the glow he'd expected. It was something else. It was dark, it was cold, and it was fierce. Seth pushed himself away from the counter. The shadows about him writhed, looking oddly like wisps of fog and mist. It was hard to breathe as they closed in.

"Your power will fade, Father." One of the dark minions, a doll who's pale features marked him as John Snow, stood not far from Seth. The male smiled grimly, and lifted a hand. The shadows reared back in response. "You will not regain your strength. Not this time, human." The blackness cascaded in around Seth. Everyone in the house felt a pulse of energy - it woke every single soul in the area. Perhaps it was Seth's desperate cry.

There in the kitchen, a center of light pushed forth from Seth, and he looked as though he would kill Snow then and there. The shadows were strong, though. They spiraled, trying to wrap around Father and consume him. One thought surfaced in Seth's mind as he felt the constriction continue - it would choke the life from him.
-

Lost shot up at the pulse of energy, careful not to jostle Isis. The blonde doll had been sleeping peacefully, and she needed it badly. It had only been days since the battle, and Mother's loss had taken its toll on them all, especially Lost's wife.

Black eyes locked on the door. The shadows were seething. "Isis," Lost nudged the woman, already getting out of bed himself. Father - that cry. He needed help. "He's in trouble."

Lost looked to Isis before reaching for the door. When it opened, it revealed a hallway that seemed distorted by the darkness itself. It felt like walking through a thick fog, or perhaps a layer of water, with every step. "Isis, come." The shadows were pulling, jerking them toward the kitchen. That was where they'd find Father.

The only other human in the house was Calla, and as they passed her door, Lost paused. They needed her, if she wasn't up and awake already. He pushed the door, knowing that it would open for a doll his size. Looking in, the dark-haired doll frowned worriedly. They needed to get to Seth.

The pale blonde doll had been sleeping peacefully against her husband. Ever since she had woken up from the battle, everything had changed. She was still rather damaged and weak from the battle, and dealing with Mother's passing had been very hard for the blonde doll to handle. She spent most of her days laying about, either sulking or crying, even a little bit of both until Lost came and had her do something to take her mind from the misery that was their life.

She woke with a start, little doll heart beating frantically as she looked around. Breathing in quickly, she winced as pain shot through her body for a moment before leaving. It still hurt to do certain things, but she was learning to cope a little more. "Lost?"

She blinked and sat up a little more, watching her husband slip from their bad and stand. She knew who he was speaking of, Father. She felt it too, though she wasn't sure what she could do to help in her current state. The blonde nodded and climbed out of bed, padding lightly toward Lost and taking his hand.

Once out in the hall and passing by Calla's room, Isis had to pause. Calla would be able to help. More than she and Lost could, at any rate. She looked at the darker doll and then glanced back at the closed door.

"Should we....get her?" Even though her sister was human now, she would still feel that pull, right? She had been made human due to magic, Calla had to be feeling something!

--

Ever since the final battle and the defeat of Ink Stain, things around the house had changed. Mother was gone, the woman had sacrificed herself to save her creations and keep them alive. It had been the ultimate sacrifice, and all the dolls were grateful, yet there was the added downside to the whole thing. Seth had not wanted any part in the dolls and keeping them alive as Mother had done. In turn, not only that but the relationship between Seth and Calla had gone downhill as well. For whatever reason, the male was pushing her farther and farther away, when all she wanted to do was help in any way she could. And she had. She had given everything in her power to help Seth, Father to the others, and yet it had all been for nothing. Or so it seemed to the redhead.

Seth had changed, become more distant and quiet. She hardly ever heard him speak, which was the complete opposite of Mother's relationships with the dolls. In turn, Calla herself remained mostly hidden in her room away from the others. She was an outcast in the doll world. She was no longer a part of their circle, had nothing in common with them. And there were no other humans in the house other than Seth, and even he didn't seem to want her. It had been a crushing realization when she figured out that there really wasn't anywhere she belonged. Mother had told her once, to be patient and all would work out, but she couldn't wait any more. It was too hard not to try and talk to Seth, to be there with him and talk, laugh or read with him.

Insecurity that he didn't like her as a human hounded her every waking moment. She wasn't pretty enough for him, her smart enough. That in itself she knew could be a problem. Calla didn't know much about being human, other than the natural healing process. Instead of magic, human's healed naturally. Still, there had to be something wrong with her if he didn't want anything to do with her. It was these very same thoughts that plagued her mind every night before she finally fell into a fitful slumber. Of course, sleep wouldn't be coming to her that night.

Laying still in bed, Calla listened to the silence of her room and the house. She heard a door open, and then light footsteps heading down the stairs. Seth. He was going to the kitchen for either food or something to drink. She had been following his habits, just so that she didn't run into him. It was odd enough being in the same house. Just forget about being in the same room! Just as she rolled over to close her eyes, the red head heard a cry for help, followed by the fiercest tugging she had ever felt. She sat up and quickly came out of bed, startled a little as her door opened to revealed Lost and her sister Isis. She didn't say anything to them, simply gave a small nod of her head before scooping them up and hurrying to get to whatever part of the house Seth was calling from.

Just before reaching the kitchen, she set her little companions down and then moved forward, entering the kitchen without fear of what could happen to her. Seth was in trouble, that was all she could think about. Green-blue eyes were startled to find the one doll she had never thought would turn to the side of evil. Snow. Calla had been blind, thinking he was still the same doll he had been. Again, she had been foolish. But seeing Seth at his mercy was one thing she would not sit idly for and watch. "NO!" She didn't realize that there was a light in the room other than what she saw in Seth. She had no idea that it was coming from her, radiating from her own body.


- Marie's Characters -

Calla

Before


After

SPOILERX

Hair and eyes: Red hair, eyes were blue-green. After the change, Calla's eyes turned a cerulean blue and her hair took on a silver/white color.
Personality: Calla had always been an adventurous doll. Constantly looking for the next big adventure in the dollhouse, especially when Seth had been younger. Now, she's very quiet and a little timid.
Current history: Calla was brought to life by Mother, just like her sister Isis. Only, she didn't know about Isis becoming a doll until much later, after the incident at the fountain. She spent almost all her time with Seth, Mother's son and she was always by his side. When Seth went off the college, Calla thought for sure he had forgotten about her, and that he didn't care about her any more and so she went to the fountain to think, only she accidentally fell in and drowned.

She doesn't really remember much, only that she tried to kill her sister Isis through the help of some of the other dolls in the house. Her spirit hadn't been very happy. Mother eventually brought her back to life, only she was brought back human instead of a doll. She fought alongside Seth, Mother and the dolls against Ink Stain, even becoming controlled for a little portion of the battle, by the darkness too. Now, she's in the body of a young Alvaren woman, who cannot see the world at all, though she has memories of people and faces of her new family, she cannot see them anymore. Yes, this new body of hers is blind.

Isis

Before


After

SPOILERX

Hair and eyes: Blonde hair and green/grey eyes, after the change her hair took on a pale pink/blonde mixture and her eyes are a soft forget-me-not blue.
Personality: As a doll, Isis had once been very quiet and practically anti-social. She kept to herself and spoke only to mother when she wasn't locked into her room and not reading. When she met lost, she'd opened up more, started talking and enjoying life again. Her new self is a very bubbly and mischievous little nymph who likes to laugh, sing and frolic anywhere she is.
Current history: After finding out about Mother's passing, Isis had started reverting to her old ways before she had ever met Lost. She was pretty much shutting out the world again while trying to heal a broken heart as well as a damaged body. She can only remember following Lost, then being picked up by Calla and then set down before a blinding white light took over her vision. She could remember hearing Lost's voice calling for her, and she for him, then nothing.

Coming to, Isis found herself to be in a completely different body, yet she had no memory of her former self or life, only of her new one. This time, she has herself a brother.

Cale

Brother to New Isis

SPOILERX

Hair and eyes: Brown hair and hazel eyes.
Personality: Soft and caring, he's constantly helping the animals and creatures of the forest. Though he's not easy to anger, and not one for violence, he can take action when needed.
History: to be added after work today!

Lost was glad when Isis' hand slid into his. The dark-haired doll grimly moved through the hall until they reached Calla's room, at which point Isis mentioned getting their human companion. Lost paused, looking at the door for a moment. It would definitely be a benefit for them to get Calla involved.

Just as he was looking for the latch along the wall that would allow them to enter, Calla's door swung open. They looked at one another briefly, and didn't think twice about what needed to happen next. Lost held tight to Isis as they were both lifted, and the dolls were soon set down just before entering the kitchen. Lost carefully kept his hand linked with Isis', and he glanced to her worriedly as the shadows around them seethed with power. They entered the kitchen soon after Calla ... just in time to see her step forward. The contrast of light and dark was hard on the eyes, but Lost carefully kept himself in front of his wife as the shadows pushed forward to surround Seth.

"What...?" Lost turned to shelter Isis as Calla stepped forward, her light shining as brightly as Seth's. He saw nothing as he squeezed his eyes shut, and then ... everything felt strange. Like that fizzing feeling in a carbonated drink, his body began to feel lighter. Lost frowned, forcing his eyes open to look at Isis. It was harder to feel her. It was almost as though he'd move right through her. "Isis?" His questioning tone was dim, as though he couldn't speak over some unknown frequency.

Things changed so suddenly. He blinked, and suddenly there was nothing. Just ... nothing. His thoughts drifted, no longer able to form. Names and faces flashed through his mind, and Lost suddenly found himself drifting as though floating. How long had he felt this way? Was this normal? What was happening, and why?

When his eyes opened, the cold stone beneath him was nowhere near the doll's home. Sucking in a sudden breath, Lost mentally marked that his head hurt - and badly. Reaching back, he felt his fingers come away sticky with fresh blood. Eying it, he fought to regain his breath. What...?

For a moment, the briefest of moments, a name entered his mind. Isis. Wait, who was Isis? She ... was it a she? Maybe it was a place? Lost squeezed his eyes shut, unaware of how his body had changed. Things were different - very different. He'd become something else entirely.
-

Seth felt the oppressive darkness closing in on him. Snow was taking advantage of his long day of healing dolls; of how Seth had been weakened from his lack of food. Usually, this wouldn't be an issue. Snow had been gathering power. As tendrils of darkness made it further into his bubble of light, Seth felt himself struggling. He lashed out with one hand, pushing the intrusion back. It only allowed other shadows to surge closer. They brushed his legs, cold and horrid.

"NO!"

Calla's voice drew Seth's attention, and he grit his teeth. He'd drawn her to the danger too. Still, his guilt faded when a surge of light came from the redhead. It was bright, and warm ... and moments later, Seth found his own power strengthened once again. It filled him, feeding off of Calla's light.

"Calla, stay back!" His voice was distorted by the contrast of light and dark, and as Seth spoke the light seemed to brighten further. He couldn't stop it. He wouldn't stop it. As the power rose, Seth realized he needed a point to focus on - so he chose Snow. Then, much like using a hammer to do a screwdriver's job, all of the light surged forward. Snow was hit full-on, and the doll cringed. It made everything ... odd.

Seth couldn't stop the light, and it continued to push out from him. It was hot now, too warm. Things started to feel light, like he was no longer standing on solid ground. There was too much power. Too much, and Seth didn't know how to control it. With a cry, he did his best to stop it - instead, a single burst of force came from him.

Sucking in a breath, Seth opened his eyes. There had been no "in between" time. He opened his eyes, and he was somewhere else. He sat up suddenly, gaze shooting around him as he looked for Calla and the others. "Calla?!" What the hell had happened?

Isis moved closer to Lost as the darkness surged forward toward Seth, their new Father. He was glowing, but his light was dimming the longer he tried to fight. What could she and Lost do? They were too weak to fight, at least she was. And she refused to let Lost go alone. Suddenly Calla stepped forward, and the light became too bright, too blinding.

She felt Lost pull her in closer to him, and she found herself moving closer instinctively. It was too warm, hot even. The light was uncomfortable, yet it wasn't threatening. It seemed to take over and engulf them all. As soon as it was there, it was gone. Isis couldn't open her eyes for a moment, and in that moment there was nothing but silence.

'Lost!?'

Soon, the silence was broken by the sound of something crawling beside her. Finally her eyes opened to the sight of a lady bug flying in front of her face. The sight of it made her smile before she frowned. Lost? What was lost? She couldn't be lost. No, she knew this forest like the back of her hand! Sitting up, blue eyes blinked before twinkling merrily. Yes, she knew this forest so well. Maybe it had been some sort of dream and someone had lost their way.


Calla hadn't expected the light. She hadn't even realized she was glowing, let alone able to give off such energy. Her only thought had been to help Seth. He had been in danger, and though she still walked with a limp, she could at least move around if she needed to fight or be quick on her feet.

The light suddenly became too much. She had to force herself to look away and shield her eyes from the light radiating from her and then from Seth. Whatever was happening, she hoped that it stopped Snow before it was too late for them all.

"Seth!!"

Soon the light was gone and there seemed to be nothing, nothing but an empty, silent and very dark limbo. 'Seth, where are you?' Suddenly sounds started to seep through the silence, but the vision never returned.

Who in the world was Seth? She didn't know anyone by that name. It had to have been a dream. Or...perhaps a nightmare. Yes, that had to be it.

"Get up, mongrel." A woman's voice caught his attention. His mental consciousness reminded him that this was his sister, Briza. Briza wasn't known for her kindness. Among the drow, all females were in higher power than males - they were in charge, and brutally demanded as much. "Get up!"

Lost slowly sat up, his head throbbing. His blurred gaze tried to focus on the scantily clad form before him. "You won't survive one day in the academy." Briza's voice was fierce, and made his head hurt worse. "Mother should have sacrificed you while she could still bring favor to our house."

The woman scoffed, pushing silver hair from her face. Her features were sharp - and Briza was known for using them against others in a powerful game of manipulation. As he watched her, Lost slowly gathered what had just happened. He'd been practicing with his sister - a rough sparring session - to see if he could best her. But, as every male painfully learned, no man was ever more powerful than a woman. Not among the drow - not with their sorcery and tricks.

Lost felt a fire build up within him, but he managed to bite his tongue. Why did this emotional reaction surprise him? For a moment, it felt like someone else's emotions, not his own. He wouldn't react like this - not with rage. But ... yes he would. As Lost tried to think back, he realized that it was expected that he react with a flash of anger. His family said it was his youth, that he was a fool and too young to see the error of his ways. It had led to plenty of whippings.

Reaching back to touch his head again, Lost fought to keep his gaze down. Never meet a female's gaze. They had every right to strike you down if you did. Lost listened for a few moments before realizing Briza's back was turned. He stood, noting the distinct lack of sound that followed his every movement. Drow, among other things, were masters of stealth.

"You leave at the end of the hour. Don't disappoint us, you fool." Briza walked away, leaving Lost to stand in silence. He felt confusion and anger warring within him, finally settling down to a steady flow of determination. He would leave his house and family, the Toshiba house, and find a new way in this ... well, whatever awaited him. Was it a meeting? No, his mind reminded him. No, it wasn't just a meeting. It was a gathering of all the important races in which they would discuss the fading peace treaty.

Lost looked himself up and down, noting the black leather armor and various hidden blades. He was trusted to go for one reason: he was to redeem his foolish actions and assassinate someone important. Someone who fought for peace. Lost nodded to himself, then headed toward his chambers to gather his final belongings. He would be near the "meeting place" by morning.

((Figured that Lost might actually be trying to kill someone good. ;) Might mean conflict later on. Hehe))
-

Seth continued his frantic search before someone caught his gaze. "Calla!" It was her, but ... it wasn't. Seth's hand reached for the girl. She was ... odd. She looked just like Calla for a moment, but her second appearance was more prominent. Like maybe he was seeing two people at once, or a reflection of Calla in this stranger. His hand hesitated, then rested against her shoulder. Or, tried.

He yelped as his hand passed through Calla. Jerking his fingers away from the silver-haired girl, Seth's eyes widened. "W-what?" Worriedly looking down at himself, Seth didn't see anything different. Was he dreaming? He felt very ... cold. In fact, he felt closed off from his usual light-bearing power.

Seth reached for Calla again, this time moving slowly and deliberately. He couldn't touch her. "Calla!" He wasn't sure how he knew that this girl was his friend, but he did. "Calla, open your eyes!" Had he killed her? Seth pulled his hand back in surprise once again, and held his hand close to his chest. To say he was frightened would have been an understatement. "What have I done?" The male began to whisper to himself, repeating the phrase over and over as he watched Calla. "Please, wake up."

He started in surprise as someone entered the room. Wait, room? Where were they? This place ... it was beautiful. Haunting. There were soft lights, and everything looked to be made of a pale wood. Was it carved from stone, or was it really wood?

Seth blinked himself out of his thoughts as the intruder stepped toward Calla. It was another female, this one as lithe as Calla's new form. Seth stared at the pointed ears, and then realized that Calla had them as well. What on earth?

"M'lady, it's time." The woman had a particularly charming accent, and reached out to gently rest a hand on Calla's arm. "We don't want to keep anyone waiting, now do we?"

((Saddest part is the fact that she can't see him due to her blindness and because NO ONE can see him. She can't even hear him. D: D: At least this will force him to realize that he really does need her. T__T

Also: Figured I'd get Calla all woken up and prepared. Today she's meeting with her Navir partner. ))

Putting aside her strange dreams and thoughts, Isis stood and stretched. She listened to the sounds of nature and smiled. It sure was nice to be awake again. Now, where had she left her brother? Cale had told her not to wander off and once again, she had failed to listen though he knew by now that she couldn't help it.

She felt as if she was skipping along through the grass, darting cheekily through the trees as she flitted through the forest. It was about time she got herself home. If anything, Cale would be there and waiting for her. Besides, she was getting hungry too. It wouldn't hurt to make a trip home first.

She paused to see the critters of the forest, stopping to chat with a squirrel or two before continuing on her way. By the time she got home, she found Cale, pacing about the place nervously. "There you are! Have you any idea what time it is?! You were supposed to be home half an hour ago!" Yikes! Isis smiled sheepishly before taking a seat at the table.

"I'm sorry. I must have fallen asleep at some point. It won't happen again, I promise!"

((Wasn't quite sure what to do with those two just yet.))

Calla remained still, her eyes closed as she simply listened to the goings on around her. She was still in bed, that was for certain. She knew she should get up, but the will to do so was gone.

Today was a special day. She was to meet with one of the men from the Navir clan and she loathed to do so. It was point, seeing as she couldn't actually see who she was meeting. Besides, it had pretty much been set in stone that she marry someone of the Navir.

She heard a voice call for her, causing her to sigh and open her eyes thought that too wouldn't do any good for her. "Must I? Merril I don't wish to meet with this man. It's not fair. Why do I have to be the one? I know! You go in my place. Yes?"

Calla knew that plan wouldn't work, which is exactly why she finally sat herself up and slowly climbed out of bed. She and her helper looked nothing alike. What she had been able to see, Calla had known how Merril had looked and they were nothing alike. Blast. "I trust your judgement the most. Will you help me look presentable?"

((Aww, poor Seth. He's such an unlucky guy!!))

((Ahaha, Isis. xD "Yikes!" aah, yes. Hon, you were VERY late. lol

Hmm. Well. There's a meeting of races to discuss the peace treaty. That's where, I'm guessing, they're going to meet Lost. *nods* Hence, an "assassination" attempt that will be quite interesting. I'm not sure what to do with Lost, either. Might just skip ahead to him being at this celebration. Only problem: A drow is going to be closely watched, and very much hated. He might show up without letting himself be known.... *starts writing*))

Lost endured the journey throughout the night. He'd left as soon as the sun fell, knowing that any contact with daylight would be torture on his eyes. As it was, the moon was only half full. It burned his sight, and as the drow traveled silently through the wooded area he could only pull his cowl lower about his face. The dark elves had no light in their caverns - what light was used was precious. It was dim, colored flames that the nobles could conjure - Faerie Fire, it was called. It made the cities beautiful, but wasn't meant for anything other than light. It didn't burn, couldn't be felt ... it was just pretty fire.

A dim purple flame moved over Lost's fingertips as he thought of the light. As a young noble son of the Toshiba household, he could form such fire. The male continued on as a shadow of the woodland area, letting the lavender fire flicker over his hand and forearm playfully. It took concentration, which reminded him that he was "just a lowly male." His talents would never be as strong or as easily conjured as his sisters'.

Lost was scowling when he spotted a small clearing about a stream. In silence, he waited for any signs of life. His heat-sensing vision scanned the area, and after deeming it safe the dark elf refilled his canteen and moved on. He made good progress, and by the time Lost made it to the "encampment" where the peace meeting would be held he was quite tired.

Lavender eyes scanned over the perimeter, taking in the guards and easily moving around them. Few races had arrived. Spokesmen for the humans were already there, and were talking quite loudly in a decorated dining hall. A few strange races lingered, including ones that Lost had never seen before. Though he was curious, Briza's biting tone entered his mind. "Find an important one that stands for peace, and get rid of it. If you can't succeed, don't bother coming home. We don't need a cur like you."

The dark elf pulled his cloak about him, avoiding the gaze of others as he began to slowly survey the area. Perhaps he'd find someone quickly.
-

Seth's gaze locked on the other elf. Merril was a slight thing; she was a waif of a person, really. The markings on her face told her story - though Seth couldn't recognize it. She was indebted to the service of Calla's family, and was always going to be with her as a servant, friend, and lady in waiting. It wasn't as terrible as it sounded - Merril rather liked where she was. It was better than the alienage in the city where she'd been born.

Seth's blue eyes locked on the girl, and he smiled slightly. "Sorry. I must have sounded crazy." He rubbed the back of his neck, then looked down to Calla. "Sorry, Calla. I ... wait, Merril? How do you know her?" He frowned, and looked down to Calla again. That was when Calla kept talking. Go in her place? Wait, what was going on?

Confused, the youth shook his head. "I don't get it. Calla, we have to get bac-" he was startled when Calla began to speak, asking Merril to help her get ready. She wasn't usually so blunt with her rudeness. Yet, with her tone, it didn't sound like she was upset. Why was Calla interrupting him?

"I don't-"

"Oh, I know you don't want to meet him. But I hear he's pleasant enough!" Merril's accented voice spoke right over Seth as though no one had heard him. "Quite handsome, according to the reports. I don't suppose that matters much though, does it?" There was a quiet squeak as Merril covered her mouth, looking mortified. "That's not what I meant to say. I-I..." She trailed off, looking down for a moment. "I'm sorry. I should be more careful with my words."

Merril was not of the noble class. Her stuttering, halting speech was charming, but nothing close to the higher classes. Her accent gave her away as a lower class as well. The dark-haired elf smiled again, seeming to lose her guilty expression the moment Calla asked her to help. "Why, you know I'm here for a reason, don't you? I'm not just your little rooster, you know."

The elf stepped forward and laughed, a charming sound again. From where he stood a few feet away, Seth dazedly watched Merril move to place a hand on Calla's shoulder.

"We both know that wouldn't work. I'm too thin and gangly. Your hair is much prettier, you know." With that, she ran a hand over a few stray hairs and stepped back as Calla stood. "Help you look presentable?" Merril clicked her tongue. "You're always presentable, Calla. I don't see why you need any help."

That was one thing about Merril. She said whatever was on her mind. The girl was honest to a fault, and naive in many ways. Her green eyes lit up with laughter a she reached out to take Calla's hand fondly. They'd known one another for years, and Merril trusted Calla the most. She was rather skittish or frowned upon by most elves, but Calla had accepted her new "sister" friend when they were young.

"There's a new dress that was made for you. It's the prettiest shade of purple. Or, that's what I think it is. Dark. It goes with your hair and eyes." Merril released Calla's hand and let the girl stand for a moment. Within seconds, she'd returned and had a dress over her arm. Merril stroked the soft fabric, knowing that the flowing material would complement her friend's figure perfectly. "Here, feel it." She took Calla's hand and placed it on the dress, smiling softly.

Seth stuttered about being in the room as Merril bid Calla to start undressing. The male froze for a moment, then slowly began to realize that no one could hear him. Why not? He didn't have time to register it. Instead, Seth spun around and faced the opposite wall, a furious blush on his features. Letting out a sound of distress, Seth ran a hand through his hair. He tried to keep himself facing the opposite direction until it was the proper time to turn around.

It was a while later when Merril commented on how the dress fit Calla well. "We really should get you down to your father. He's like an impatient lion, pacing around down there!" Merril tugged on a few parts of the dress. "I can put some braids in your hair, if you'd like. We don't actually have to leave for another half cycle, though your father is the impatient one. Does he think you'll be late?"

Merril spoke her thoughts aloud, then paused to wait for Calla's input.

Isis rolled her eyes in her brother's direction as he starting going on and on about some sort of peace making between two of the races. Honestly, Isis didn't really care much for such things, but her brother said they had to go in order to represent their kind. It was only right to at least go and witness such a thing. She grabbed a few berries to eat, munching on them as Cale continued to blab on and on.

Before long the two nymphs were speeding through the trees to their next destination. An encampment of sorts where this peace meeting was taking place, Cale and Isis both showed a bit of their skills as a way to let the guards know who they were and what they represented. Finding themselves a place to sit and wait, Isis couldn't help fooling around a little bit.

She loved to play with nature, and sometimes Cale had to bail her out of trouble when her safe little creations seemed to take on a mind of their own. At the moment, the female nymph was playing with tiny little vines, letting them curl around her fingers and arm. At least it would occupy her until the meeting started.

She happened to glance up in time to see someone appear just beyond the threshold, then meld into the gathering crowd. Isis frowned a little, not sure what kind of race the person was. She had never really seen one like him before. It made her all the more curious to go off and search for that person, but Cale reappeared and stopped her from doing anything else.

He gave her a pointed look and glanced at the vines she was playing with. Sighing softly, Isis stopped and let them settle back where she had found them, crawling up the side of a large rain barrel full of water. Sometimes she wished her brother would just embrace a little fun in his life. It wouldn't kill him!

--

If only the silver haired Alvaren could see, could hear that there was another voice calling out for her. It was odd, but she felt as though someone was watching her, which was silly since she was absolutely sure that Merril was doing just that. So really, what in the world was the difference now? The young female wasn't sure, but since her friend hadn't mentioned anything strange, then Calla figured there was nothing at all wrong at the moment.

When Merril spoke next and said she knew that Calla didn't want to meet the Navir, Calla let out a little sigh. Why couldn't her family have had other children and let them be the one to do this. Calla knew it was for the good of their kind, and that joining their two races was a way to getting peace between at least two races, but still. It just wasn't fair at all.

Upon hearing Merril start to stutter, Calla laughed. "Fret not, Merril, I'm not upset. You're more definitely right, as always. It doesn't matter what he looks like, for I cannot see him. I've learned that I can be a better judge of character just be listening and feeling rather than seeing."

She smiled a brilliant smile and brushed off the compliments, frowning as her friend spoke so little of herself. "What's this nonsense you're spouting? You were always pretty to me. I was always jealous of your looks. No more talk of that. I need help making sure this dress is secured."

Calla turned around and stepped into her outfit, letting her friend help her out. Once she was dressed and ready, Call blinked in surprise and waited for Merril to finish before cracking into a grin followed by laughter. "I can just see him now! Prowling around his study like a caged lion. Hm, perhaps we shouldn't keep him waiting much longer. You know how much of a toad he can be when he's waiting. But...perhaps a couple of braids would be alright."

Once her hair was fixed, Calla closed her eyes and took a deep breath. It was now or never, and unfortunately the latter wasn't really an option. "Alright Merril, I'm as ready as I'll ever be! Please, lead the way." She took her friend's arm and let her guide her to her father. It was time to get this meeting underway and have it end. The sooner the better. Then again, maybe taking her time would be best? No no, her father would march up there and drag her down himself if he had to.

((And there we go!!))

The "encampment" was more like a giant gathering of cities in one place. There were elven buildings, which were permanent fixtures. Tents from visiting races lingered in spare spaces. Bright colored curtains lingered everywhere, lamps glowed even in the daylight hours, and strange smells assaulted Lost from every side.

The male's lavender eyes were narrowed as he tried to see. Drow were unaccustomed to light, and this was ... well, a lot of it. Not to mention, there was a lot of input on his senses. To say it was easy to take would have been a lie. He was feeling more overwhelmed with each passing moment. The only thing that kept him there was his stubborn determination not to faint or slink off because he felt like it was all too much.

But it was.

Pulling his hood lower about his face, the dark elf avoided getting too close to others. Still, he moved through the area looking for some of the influencers of the crowd. Who ruled each race? Wait, what kind of creature was that? Lost paused as a half animal beast strode past, a growl in its throat and a glare in its eye. They each watched one another for a moment, sizing one another up. Lost's fingers brushed the black hilt of a visible blade in challenge.

The moment passed.

Lost slowly backed away as the strange creature moved along. The dark elf was so ... tense. Strained. This was too much to handle all at once. A loud sound drew his attention. There was so much silence in the Underdark - his homeland - that this ....

His movements became more languid and dangerous as Lost moved through the gathering again. This time, he lingered on the outskirts, finally breaking away from the brunt of the commotion. For a moment, he was still. His heat-sensing gaze flickered over the area, slowly coming to rest on a female nearby. He almost hadn't noticed her, as her heat pattern was different than the other races. It was lower, less vibrant - more shifting and dim. Honestly, Lost had mistaken her for plant life entirely before he'd caught sight of her distinctly womanly features.

Time passed as Lost silently observed Isis, marking the differences between her and many of the other races. Plant life. Interesting. Purple eyes followed the vines from Isis to the rain barrel. Was she ... bored? At a gathering like this? Lost couldn't shake the feeling that the woman looked familiar, thus he kept staring. Perhaps she wouldn't notice since he stood at a distance.
-

"You're too kind, lathelan," Merril used the elven word for friend, sounding awkward but thankful when Calla complimented her. It was true - Merril was a pretty thing, but she held a different kind of beauty than Calla. She busied herself with adjusting the dress until her friend was ready.

"Oh, yes! Just like a big cat. I was tempted to leave a ball of twine in his room." It sounded sarcastic, but with Merril, it could have been true. The dark-haired elf laughed, and her fingers deftly began to take small portions of hair to braid. The result was finished mere minutes later: a few subtle braids that gave Calla's appearance a distinctly traditional elven twist. Merril's green eyes flickered over her friend, and she smiled.

"Do you think you'll like it there? With the Navir?" The fact that this particular group had proudly stated they were Navir was ... odd. Usually the other race kept themselves to the shadows, didn't draw attention to themselves, and infiltrated elven families through subterfuge and lies. It was only after they were found that they revealed their true racial identity. This royal, though ... an odd one, apparently. He'd even asked for a peaceful marriage arrangement instead of war. Another strange occurrence, really.

Merril guided Calla through the spacious halls and delicate stairways, nodding to the silent sentries that kept watch. They passed various open balconies all carved of the same white wood as the rest of the elven structure.

Seth followed in silence, still trying to figure out what was going on. Numbly, he kept close enough to Calla that he could hear whatever she said. "If this is some kind of joke, it's a poor one." Seth scowled, though neither Calla nor Merril responded to him. He let out a hefty sigh, but his attention was suddenly locked on a mirrored surface nearby. He froze, and then moved back to look into it again. His hair was silver. Since ... when the hell did that happen?!

He ran his fingers through it in confusion, then noted his pale skin. Even his eyes had lost their color. He was cold. His clothes were worn. Seth finished his inspection around the time Calla and Merril had gone down a spiral staircase. He was drawn by their voices as they stepped outside. They were to be escorted to the neutral ground - the royal gathering was more than just an escort. It was nearly an army of protection. The king was very protective of his daughter, and of course he was wary of the Navir who'd proposed to her.

Seth hardly managed to get to the carriage that Calla was ushered into. He caught the end of what Merril was saying as he slid into a partially open spot beside Calla. He supposed it didn't matter - they couldn't feel his touch anyway. Experimentally, Seth reached out to touch his friend's leg. It went through her. Nothing. Shuddering, Seth turned his gaze to the outside forests as they began their journey.

"I just don't see why they'd ask for peace." Merril shook her head. She'd been going on about why a Navir would as for an Alvaren's hand in marriage. It was beyond strange. "Maybe they've had a change of heart. They might have kittens around now!" The elf's voice rose in anticipation, as she knew that she would either be accepted as Calla's servant or sent away as the Navir couldn't tolerate her presence.

((So much text. o__o They'll arrive next time. haha))

Isis wished she could simply skip the peace treaty thing. Honestly, politics bored her to tears and she just had too much energy to be contained for long. She was a child at heart, always wanting to play and cause mischief where she could. It was just something the nymph did. She never went looking for trouble, it just always seemed to do a very good job of finding her.

Feeling as though someone was staring at her, the nymph took her time to look around, bright eyes scanning the area. She didn't notice anyone, not really. After a moment, she scanned the encampment again and felt her eyes lock onto pale lavender orbs. Isis wasn't sure why, but they called to her. She felt like she should know those eyes, but she honestly had no idea who that person was.

Before she could move, the nymph wanted to get a closer look at the stranger out of curiosity, Cale showed up and dragged her away. Apparently the star of the evening was going to arrive soon and they both needed to witness the event. Isis glanced back at the lavender eyed male, wondering just what race he could be. She was sure she had never seen one like him before.

--

Calla smiled as her friend used their language. It was nice to at least have something familiar. Letting out an amused laugh when the conversation turned to her father, Calla felt a little more at ease though she was sure it would only last until they made it to the carriage.

Reaching up once her hair was done, she ghosted her fingers lightly over her hair and nodded. Leave it to Merril to make her look her best. The other Alvaren was always looking out for her. The next question made her pause. Would she like it there?

"I...am not sure. I don't wish to go, Merril. I'm afraid they won't let you stay with me. You will be the only familiar thing I'll have, and should they take you away, I will have nothing."

She moved with her friend, descending the staircase to the main floor. Soon she was helped up into the waiting carriage and they were off. Calla tried her best to hold back her tears. It would do her no good to cry as it would change nothing.

She managed to keep herself composed, though it was a difficult task. Calla felt nervous once more as the carriage started to slow down. "Have we...have we arrived?" She asked softly, her voice clearly showing her true feelings.

((You know what I just realized? Isis is going to be the playful one, and Lost is going to be so confused by it. He isn't playful, doesn't even know HOW to be playful ... such a cute aspect of their relationship. Their "new" relationship. I like what we've done haha))

When their eyes met, Lost blinked slowly. A threat? No. The girl was looking back at him, that was all. For a while the drow held Isis' gaze. They didn't look away from one another until Cale approached and pulled Isis away. Lost's sensitive hearing caught a nearby voice as the hubbub began. Someone had arrived, and that someone was of great importance.

Lavender eyes finally lost Isis and her brother in the crowd. Cringing as a stray reflection struck his eyes, Lost jerked his hood lower over his eyes and stayed still until he could see once again. By the time he could, a whole host of people had arrived. The lead carriage held someone of power. Lost focused on it, lingering in the crowd and keeping his gaze on Calla and Merril as they stepped out into the morning air.

((So Lost was going to kill ... uh ... "kill" ... Calla. That means we can get him involved, and potentially wounded. It certainly gives Snow the chance to "save" Calla in the public eye. That would help with the peace thing.

And then Isis can run into Lost because he's hurt. But of COURSE she's not going to know that he's teh one who attacked the pretty betrothed elf. xD))
-

Their journey had been long, but easy. It was a couple hours later when their ride slowed. Had they arrived? "Yes," Merril said quietly. The carriage pulled to a stop, and the sounds and smells of various races hit them all at once as the door opened. "Oh, lavellan! There are so many colors, it looks like spilled paint." The waif of a girl stepped from the carriage first, and her green eyes were wide as she took everything in. "I didn't realize there would be so many people watching."

She was a bit sheepish as she reached for Calla's hand to help her to the ground. Merril's hand was warm - she was obviously riled. Her grip was all too tight. "There are so many of them," she said quietly, knowing that Calla's tuned hearing would pick up on her accented voice despite the murmurs and voices all around them.

Suddenly Merril froze. Calla heard her breath catch. "He's here." As though to prove the elf's words, a new scent flickered on the breeze. Calla caught the very essence of the Navir - of Snow. It was a subtle scent, like that of freshly fallen snow or a wide open expanse of damp cave. It radiated sleeping power.

The male that stood waiting for them was ... beautiful. Merril stared unabashedly at the Navir as he clasped his hands behind him and patiently watched in return. A path was left open between them as other elves (likely Navir) kept the other races back. Snow stood in a patch of shade at the top of a short flight of stairs, his pale features a mask of calm. A slight breeze caught on his long hair and various chains that decorated his form. Merril sounded awed as she described him.

"He looks nothing like your father," Merril said as she led Calla down the path before them. She paused at the base of the stairs, looking to her silver-haired friend with a slight smile. "He thinks you're beautiful. It's in his eyes." The girl shifted a few bits of Calla's dress and hair, then gently bid her forward to meet Snow. When they reached the top of the stairs, the most attractive voice Merril had ever heard washed over them. Calla caught the intake of breath from her friend.

"I bid you welcome, Lady Calla." A cool hand reached forward palm up. Merril carefully guided Calla's hand in his direction. "I trust your journey was swift?"

As they approached, Seth's gaze locked on the Navir. This ... creature. It was Snow. With a hiss, Seth stepped forward. "Don't touch her." He wasn't surprised when his hand went through Snow's forearm in his attempt to push him away. He growled in frustration and tried to pull Calla's hand away. "No! This is the doll that tried to kill us, Calla! Stop!"

The silver-haired male raked a hand through his hair in anger, pacing a few steps as he tried to keep his anger under control. Apparently no one could see him, hear him, nor feel him. While frustrating, it also meant that his tantrum went unnoticed. "Damn it, Calla! No!"

What am I supposed to do?!

Isis had found herself curious of the other creature. She wasn't like Cale, who know pretty well what every other race was. Honestly, it bored her to the point of tears just listening to him try and explain everything. People found her naive, and though she was to a certain point, the fairy like girl was also intelligent enough to confuse people if she needed to. She just preferred to be carefree and enjoy life. She looked back as Cale pulled her away, but she had lost sight of the origin of her curiosity. She'd find him later, yes.

Cale pulled them up closer to the front and Isis stood still and watched as two pretty elves came out of a carriage. "Hey Cale, the one that everyone is here to see is the one in the back right. With the pretty hair, right?" she whispered into her brother's ear. The male tried not to roll his eyes, but he gave a nod and put a finger to his lips, silencing any other questions for the time being.

((Hahaha, yes! Oh gosh I never even realized that either. Good luck with the new Lost, Isis. You're going to need it! I really like this new remake. Makes things just a little more interesting. And yes, I like that Lost is going to try and 'kill' Calla. I think that having Snow save her will be good for the image he's trying to have and Isis would totally try to heal poor hurt little Lost.))

---

Hearing her friend confirm that they had arrived, Calla felt her stomach turn. This was really happening. She she was helped out of the carriage, Calla's ears were assaulted by voices all around. The whispers were loud to her ears, especially since they were coming from every direction. "I wish I could see it all. I'm sure it's so beautiful." She nearly walked right into Merril, not realizing that the other had stopped. Calla blinked and squeezed the hand she was holding. "What is it? Is something wrong?"

She went quiet when she heard Merril whisper that he was there. At that moment, Calla caught a light scent in the air. It was like fresh snow. It was crisp and clean and....it was rather pleasant if she was being honest with herself, but she was still very nervous about this meeting. As they began to walk forward again, Calla listened as her friend described her future husband. He sounded very handsome, she had to admit, but that still wasn't enough to ease her mind.

Calla paused as Merril fixed a few things and then lightly nudged her toward the stairs. He though she was beautiful? Well, that was a pleasing thought. It actually sent a little bit of color to her cheeks as she climbed the steps, Merril at her side. Calla had a similar reaction to Merril when the male finally spoke. Calla was better at keeping her composure, but she was still shocked. "Y-Yes, the trip was swift, much more than I thought it would be." She said as Merril set her hand in his.

"I hope you were not waiting long. My...sightless eyes sometimes slow myself down." She was more nervous now, than before. Merril wasn't there to hold onto, only her betrothed and Calla honestly wasn't liking this. It wasn't something she was used to. Her friend was always there. "Merril...she does her best to get me where I need to be on time. I...oh...I'm rambling on. Please, feel free to stop me. My nerves are getting the best of me..."

((This is like, waaaaayyyy over due.))