Post by Joliette Thorne on May 31, 2008 4:34:58 GMT -5
Hume smiles as the proprietor of the tavern cones strolling down the street, he hangs his head a little and murmurs an apology about a newly broken table, "I was attacked by this tigress, you see..."
Tenebrae snorted a little laugh- attractively of course- and said to Hume, "Apologise? I need the place demolished..."
Hume looks at the lurking structure, somewhat rickety now and soaked in as much gore as alcohol. He strokes his chin, "Demolished, you say? Why not simply burn it to the ground? Send the den of demons to a fiery hell and give a bonfire for the amusement of the crowds as well." He looks slyly at Tenebrae, "We could always home someone gets locked inside?"
Tenebrae lofted a brow. "Well, that would work-- but first I need a hand moving the piano out.." She looked about as though expecting someone, her expression slightly concerned. "Preferably someone .. big."
Tenebrae waved to Thea, then. "Ello pix. Up for some demolition work?"
Hume heaves a sigh and flexes his claws, you get the impression this isn't the first time he's been asked to move a piano. He mutters something about the women just wanting to see him flex his muscles, but asks resignedly, "It's a grand, isn't it?"
Tenebrae nodded. "Baby Grand. Do be careful of the... no, nevermind, they are aren't animate. Just ignore the sounds." She smiled sweetly. "Thankyou."
Thea nods affirmatively, "Aye, but shouldn't we take some of the goods and store them elsewhere, Tene?" She was concerned about the spirits..but the dust as well.
Hume perks up a little and nods, growling, "A baby grand? Well then, could be worse." He presses his lips together as Tene suggests it may be a /haunted/ piano, but none the less trudges inside the Corpse. You hear the scrapings of some chairs and furniture, followed by some grunting and cursing. A long moment of silence follows, then a sudden crescendo of discordant notes slams out in to the night, followed by many impish voices tittering. A throaty roar silences the voices, and an instant later a scaled tail thrashes out, ripping a hole to the side of the doorway to make room for the hulking piano that presently appears, pushed by Hume, who strains against it with his back, his talons digging into the floor and ground for purchase.
Tenebrae thought that was a good idea. "Alright, I'll have Steady take all the crates next door-- the Town Hall isn't open yet, so we can put everything there."
Tenebrae said to Hume, "Oh, very good-- can I have it over there..." She pointed to the east. "In the Town Hall.""
Thea moves to help the one-eyed keep with the stock. Shuffling sounds of boxes being stacked are accompanied by the clinking of the bottles. A loud crash is heard just before, "Steadman! That was my favorite!" from the pixie. Groaning she continues to move what she can, making sure not to waste another of the special blend in the dark glass she had so come to love.
Tenebrae spoke a word to the clumsy barkeep that hadn't been heard outside certain orcen pirate's dens for two centuries, and flapped a hand toward the Hall. "We'll need stronger men to carry all that..."
Rheven notices a gathering below and slows the flapping of his newly gained wings, coming to a graceful landing among the crowd. The arch mage certainly looks different than before, his once pearly fangs now a darker, obsidian-like color, along with the aforementioned wings. "What's the occasion? I do hate to intrude, but it is a public road..."
Hume grinds the piano to a halt, his tongue lolling from his mouth, leaning on the heavy dark wood casing -- which still chitters with hidden voices -- and stares at Tene with disbelief as she points of down the street. He heaves a sigh and throws himself against the burdensome thing again, inching it down the uneven road, his shoulders straining and lips uttering curses to help it on its way.
Tenebrae paused in her speech, to... stare... at Rheven. "What in the name of Sven's purple... How'd you end up with wings? And yes, a little help'd be nice. We're moving stock out. Grab a crate."
Tenebrae pulled at her lower lip a moment. "Of course, -somebody- has to cage the Chitterling."
Thea promptly hands over said crate, Steadman taking advantage by loading several more atop it. "There we are." The Druidess continues to shuffle about, piling bottles into whatever bins she can find that will be suitable enough for storage. The pouches of dust are tucked neatly into a large jar, as many as will fit anyway. She looks over to see what progress has been made by the others at this point.
Rheven glances at Tenebrae, giving the woman a smirk that again reveals those darker fangs. "It is a long story...one that has been coming to form for quite a long time now. You have heard of the revenants of old, yes? Lasher and his brethren? I stand among them now...I did this not so much for personal power, though. The quality of the vampiric race in this land is at a startlingly low level...I believe it is time we regained our prestige and respect."
Tenebrae raised her brow again at the.. revenant. "Oh really. I had had much the same idea." Her tone was slightly flat. "Wasn't Vakarash all about murdering all the vampires?"
Tenebrae started loading bottles into crates, as well, and gave Thea a brief flash of a look while she worked.
Rheven nods slowly and raises a hand, likely some sort of gesture for a pause. Ducking into the tavern, he emerges with one of the larger crates along his shoulder, held against an arm along with the support of a leathery wing. "He was, but he and I had an agreement of sorts...this was a gift I earned. Of course, I had to make one other commitment, but I am under no god...it was simply a favor that lined up with something I'd already desired to do for the longest time. Where do you need this...crate to go?"
Thea caught the look and paused her task long enough to move closer to the vampiress, leaning in to whisper.. "What's wrong?"
Tenebrae merely clenched her jaw and gave the pixie a slight shake of head, muttering, "Tell you later." She straightened, quiet while Rheven spoke, and merely pointed East. "Into the empty Town Hall, next door, thanks." Her eyes were cool on the revenant.
Kasyr took that particular moment to wander over, having been subtly aware that there was something or other of note that was supposed to be here. Mind, at the mention of the Chitterling, the tiefling couldn't help but grimace; given there was a particular degree of familiarity with the thing- unpleasant as would be the norm with that breed of...Well, ..Whatever it was beyond a Chitterling. So, of course, the tiefling would stray closer towards the particular vicinity of that creatures mention. It wasn't like he could really go about announcing his presence anyway- and Tenebrae was held in slightly higher esteems than to garner her attention with a stale biscuit. Really, the most he could do was just weave past those various items being carried back and forth, to creep up on Tenebrae and stare at her until she noticed him.
Hume comes back down the street from the east, dusting off his claws and walking with what must be a slight limp, muttering all the way. He shoots a good-natured glare at Tenebrae as he stalks past, and assists with the unloading of crates from the tavern.
Rheven simply nods to Tenebrae and moves along to store the crate.
You winced, feeling eyes on her, and turned to find... eyes on her. "Kasyr, than the gods. We're demolishing the old pub. I have ... plans. For the new one. But first, I need a little help with our friend. In the cellar." Her smile was small, though her eyes held something of amusement. "You up for it?"
Tenebrae looked to Rheven on his return. "I suppose this means you intend to play King of the Vampires and invade my town?" The woman was abrupt. No point in beating about the bush.
Thea took definite note of the sudden chill in the air between Tene and Rheven, shaking it off with a shudder of her wings as she spotted the saurian, "Mind giving me a hand or two?" She asks with a grin while handing over a small crate and a large jar, "I'd recommend not dropping that one in particular. While it is none of mine, it may well be potent enough combined to cause you a week's worth of itching." The pixie was of course speaking in reference to the contents of dust that had been packed into the glass.
Kasyr had dealt with gods, was still entangled in that particular tug of war between gods; had been subject to all sorts of oddities and general bits of weirdness. Hell, he'd fallen into the pool; ...but he still couldn't help but offer a less than happy look at the request; memories of that thing tied in with his much more 'mortal' days not quite able to be shoved aside. Still, albeit the fact that his ears had seemingly attempted to flop forward as though in search of refuge, he found himself nodding carefully to the vampiress, head cocking towards the bar with a seemingly curious look.
Tenebrae glanced aside to Kasyr, something of amusement returning to her eyes. "There's an adamantine cage down there, ought to keep it... " She smiled. "Well. hopefully out of the way."
Hume lifts out the jar and regards its contents, his talons clicking on the glass suffused with tiny bubble here and there. He taps on the lid to make sure it's secure and replaces it carefully amidst the hay packing it in the crate. When the pixie's back is turned, his eyes narrow and dart between Thea and the jar of itching powder, a scheme for later hatching in his mind.
Tenebrae was pointing downward, as though to indicate the cellar.
Rheven comes to an abrupt stop, staring at Tenebrae for a few silent moments before shaking his snowy head. "Why would I want to do that? I intend to bring the race together and make it stronger, not tear it apart. Of course, it is only natural I be one of the central figures in such...but no, force is something I seek to avoid. Vailkrin, for the longest time, represented the state of the vampiric race; always well known and favored, but lacking in direction, command, and order. This may have changed since you've gotten a grasp here, I haven't really been around long enough to notice. But it would be quite symbolic if we could make Vailkrin into a fortress for our race. No longer a city to be trampled and traded among whatever worthless warlords come by."
Tenebrae coughed softly, and returned her gaze to Rheven. "I have already commenced the work required to do so, your... Majesty." She flapped a hand to the west. "Building adequate homes. Planning our City Guard. All the rest. Nice of you to look in, though. As to the fortress, I have such a plan in mind... " Here, her expression brightened somewhat, though the gleam in her eyes was sharp. "I dare say you might approve."
Kasyr had a sinking feeling, one which was unfortunately spiking up to all odds and ends. Still, at least there wouldn't be a goblin village or a herd of spiders to contend with- just...an overtly large wormesque thing of large proportions with teeth most likely bigger than him at this point. ....Was it any bigger? ...Tenebrae seemed fairly sure it could fit into the cages. Kasyr couldn't just sit there and mull upon that potential portent of painful Chitterling induced perforation, however~ As much as wasting time did seem a pleasant pastime... Thus, with little to do save offer Joliette a bow, the hybrid promptly slipped away from the imminent banter and into the tavern...but only after giving Rheven a particularly indignant look after that warlord comment.
Thea 's alighted orbs settled on the vampiress as she listened discreetly to the conversation, hands still busy gathering the odds and ends, glasses and various kitchen tools shifting over one another as they were packed away. A particularly large cauldron was then eyed by the Druidess, small grin tearing at her lips as she nudges Hume, "I bet we could even fit -you- in that one."
Hume stomps over to the enormous vessel, strains for a moment to lift it, and settles it over his head, upside down it passes slightly past his mid upper arms, obscuring his head from view. His voice booms out from within with an echo, "If you're offering to give me a bath, I accept!"
Rheven narrows his eyes slightly at the tone of Tene's words, but he says nothing to indicate he has any sort of qualm. "I see. I more meant a fortress in the figurative sense, but one in the literal would do well also." Pausing, the arch mage's gaze softens slightly. "I know you have your doubts, but I do not come to force my fellow Kindred to bow to me. I have no use for sniveling sycophants...of which many weaker vampires in this land are indeed. I simply think we are no longer truly feared and respected as a race, and I intend to fix that."
Thea simply laughs and stands in ponder on that one for a moment, head shaking soon after. "Perhaps another night. But you would fit nicely with a little..help." She clears her throat and grabs up a stack of rags, wondering where the hell Steadman had run off to.
You couldn't help something of a dubious look, considering recent information come to light, but too, she did not speak her thoughts aloud. "I have also been hard work forging various alliances with Cabal and Vailkrin both. We are well-covered, in the case of invasion." She smiled, the expression mostly genuine. "You can trust me on that."
Hume carries off the cauldron a little unsteadily, and with weaving steps as he's forced to looking at the ground beneath him for guidance. He zigzags off to the east, taking the cauldron away, muttering that it's big enough for two.
Tenebrae mumbled something about "force" and behinds, and stacked a few crates rather too untidily. One toppled, sending its contents to a shatter of glass and white liquor to the ground.
Thea jumps at the sudden shattering, eyes darting towards the area Tene had been working in, "Everything ok over there?" Thea knew the tense situation had Tene more than a little stirred, but knew nothing of the full details..yet. She grabs up a stray rag and weaves through the crates to find the source of the commotion.
Hume trudges back to the site of the renovation, his talons crunching through the bits of broken glass without notice. He leans in the doorway calling out, "Anything left in there?"
Rheven nods slowly, his leathery wings tucking back behind him once more. "That is certainly good news. You can always come to me for resources if necessary, as well - you may think I look down on you, but don't let me be so arrogant to assume your thoughts. But should you think so, I do not. I know well how influential you are, and you will certainly have an integral role in restoring the dignity of our race...as you already have proven."
Tenebrae glanced to Thea, and nodded. "Just a slip, pet. You know how clumsy I can be. Now, be careful when Kasyr brings the Chitterling up.." She shot a concerned look to the cellar. "It's.. rapacious. And who knows how big the thing's gotten, since it ate.,." She closed her mouth abruptly, blinking. "Well. Just be cautious."
Thea 's eyes widened a bit, mouth agape as she turns towards the stairwell, "Chitter...you mean that -thing- Creature found and brought in? You've kept it?"
Tenebrae returned her attention to Rheven. "Well. Thankyou. Don't be expecting favours, positions of power here for your friends, though. I am most concerned with finding the best people for the various roles needed in town. Even some of my own will no doubt be displeased but..." She shrugged lightly. "Can't please all of the people, as the saying goes." her prickliness had seemed to abate, somewhat though. "Now, how about a hand with the last of the crates? Once Kasyr has the Chitterling, we can get to the business of demolishing."
Hume holds up his hands, palms away from his chest at Thea's remark, he shakes his head, "I'm not going near it. /Whatever/ it is."
Tenebrae chuckled softly, and replied to Thea, "Oh no... that was something else. The Chitterling is the larvae of a desert-worm. Ugly thing. It had a rather large appetite for spiders, though, which break through from the Underdark now and then." She shuddered a little. "Big ones."
Dulcinea had seen the commotion from down the street. All the hustle and bustle and clutter in front of the tavern was a strange sight to be sure, and she hurried her pace to reach the area quickly. Pausing on the edge of the ruckus, just in time to watch Tene knock over a crate of some kind, she had to take a moment to survey the entire scene. A small laugh escaped her lips and she shook her head, wondering what her latest absence had robbed from her. "Well...this is certainly new."
Hume furrows his brow together at the mention of spiders. Big spiders. And awaits the arrival of the baby sandworm.
Thea looks quite relieved that it was not the same creature, but curious as ever to lay eyes on it, her head craned down the stairs a bit, "Aye, had an appetite for those myself on occasion." She quips then skips back towards the last remaining items.
Rheven chuckles lightly at the thought, lifting another crate and ignoring the one that's undoubtedly full of broken glass and debris. "I don't expect that. Even if I did, I have few I can call 'friend' to expect it for. I have those I respect and those I don't, but few can I honestly call 'friend'. But now, let me get this to the hall for you..."
Tenebrae gave a wave to her clansmate, the flourish ending with her forefinger pointed at the Corpse. "Knocking the old place down, Dulci. It's seen too many fights in its day, and isn't stable anymore. So, we build afresh and with.. certain defences against attack. Unfortunately, I cannot prevent stupidity, also, but at least the action of the stupid will be somewhat deterred." this said, she peered at the woman more closely. "How are you?"
You turned a quick glance to Thea. "There's still not a cure for stupidity yet, I take it?"
Hume shrugs, "There's a wonderful cure, but it's typically fatal to the patient."
Dulcinea follows the woman's gesture to the old tavern, feeling a great deal of nostalgia for the memories she had made there. "Well, all good things must come to an end and all that...I'm sure that the new one will be even better." Forcing a bright smile, she turns her attention to her clan leader, not quite meeting the other woman's eyes. "I'm just fine...terrific in fact!" The words would perhaps sound a bit hollow and a trifle forced, but being as how these were the first actual people she had talked to in weeks, she didn't want to unduly alarm them. "Really, I should be asking how you are...I never got a chance to talk to you after I helped attempt your rescue."
Tenebrae snickered softly at the dragon's comment, and turned to Steadman, who was kicking rocks by the path's edge. "Here, man, get to work clearing the kitchen. I want this place down before morning."
Thea shakes her head to the question, "Afraid that one is beyond my expertise, Tene. I believe it may have something to do with the chemical makeup of certain beings..that or someone peed in the stream."
Tenebrae turned a slightly suspicious look to Dulcinea, eyeing the woman up and down in that disconcerting fashion that suggested she had twigged that things had not been easy for the woman. "Mhm. Well, I am awfully glad to see you back. I have plans for a clinic here, designed specifically for the Undead and Vampiric races. Of course, I will need necromantic staff, but those with a knowledge of anatomy and general healing will be welcome, too.." She smiled softly. "Want to help setting it up?"
Tenebrae would have added something to her question, but was distracted by Thea's comment, which made her laugh out loud. "Just as well I never drink the water, pix?"
Rheven appears back along the path, dusting his robes of the dirt that was upon the crates. Turning his gaze up to Tenebrae again, the vampire speaks. "I have recently perfected a ward against fire. I could place one within the new establishment once it is finished...it would take either a number of weaker mages to destroy it, or..." He smirks - the sort of smug smirk that would make most just want to rip it off his face. "...A single mage more knowledgeable than I."
Thea calls from behind a rather hefty bit of cloth from some old draperies, "Aye. I'd particularly recommend avoiding it if the hue is that of beer." She mutters something about beer being the catalyst to cause most of the stupid being spread by further seeding.
Dulcinea makes a mental note to try and hide things better, having more or less forgotten just how disconcertingly accurate Tene was at reading people. A genuine smile lights the druid's face as she hears about the planned clinic, a frission of excitement passing through her at the thought of being able to contribute in some fashion again. Opening her mouth to accept, she suddenly stops, a frown marring her delicate features as she remembers the very reason for her retreat in the first place. "I would be more than happy to help you in any way I can Tene...although my services may not be quite what they once were." Gesturing to the various stacks and piles of stuff strewn about she offers her help, "Anything I can do now for you?"
Tenebrae gave Rheven a small nod as though of thanks. "I do have the magics of the tavern covered, but I appreciate your offer. I would take it up but..." She shrugged. "Magics will no longer work in the tavern. At all." The vampiress sighed. "I am weary of purple balls and people trying to drown us. So, as much as it displeases me, I shall need to ban magic from the place altogether."
Tenebrae spoke quietly to her clansmate, a slight frown marring her brow. "You and I, Dulci... shall have a little chat, later. For now, however, if you could help Steadman with the kitchen things, that'd be lovely."
Thea feigns a serious expression towards the vampiress, "Aye. Have to watch for those purple balls..and heads being batted about.."
Tenebrae pursed her lips at Thea's words. The pixie had a way of making her laugh at inopportune moments, and this was one. Rubbing her palm across her face, she then gave Thea a most serious look. "If we cut them off at the source, they won't be shooting anything, anywhere."
Rheven narrows his eyes slightly at the statement, find it a bit farfetched. "Do you have a way to do that, necessarily? It is not easy to create an anti-magic field that would choke such a large area...and even harder to make it impenetrable. Magic does have its uses in less malicious intentions, you know...strangling it out altogether will do almost as much harm as it will good."
Dulcinea gives wide eyes to the vampiress, simply nodding in agreement. There was nothing to it then...she'd have to let her little secret out of the bag. Suddenly feeling like a weight had been lifted, she gives Tene an odd sort of cheery smile before heading off towards the ever put upon Steadman. "'Ello, Steady, how's tricks?" Ignoring the bartender's slightly aggrieved expression, she jumps right into the fray.
Hume is brought up short by the mention of 'purple balls' and snaps his fingers, claws ringing together. He shakes a finger at Tenebrae in agreement, "Indeed! I've noticed the same thing! What is the fascination the mages of this land seem to have with orbs -- whatever color they may be, but I've seen the purple spheres referenced quite a bit -- It's uncanny. Did they all learn from the same adept?" He shakes his head, "An alehouse free of magic could be a good thing, though I suspect a spell will slip off there now and again. But as you say, hopefully none of the wearisome ones that have become all too common."
Rheven said to Hume, "It is not as ideal as it sounds. For instance, the tavern will have to be lit naturally....then, say, a stray candle or lamp falls and sends the place ablaze - not in magical flame, but natural, not bound to the laws of wards and the like. Dousing it without magic would be a much harder task before much of the tavern could be potentially ravaged."
Hume nods to Rheven, "Of course, magic is a fine thing and we all have it affect our lives on a daily basis." He sets his jaw to one side, "But inns are well used to such mishaps, and I hardly think handling a greasefire or the odd flaming curtain -- or flaming patron -- is beyond the abilities of the redoubtable Steadman."
Thea snickers at the saurian's words, having oft wondered the same thing, "What can you do, Hume? Some who learn the craft simply toss everything in their archaic learning aside and resort to playing with balls." The pixie shrugs and regards Tene, "Aye, I think it is a good idea to banish the magicks. You will need a hell of a barrier for some, however. And let us not forget that a -few-.." Viridians darted towards Rheven, "have aid of higher sources for their biddings." She wasn't speaking of the newly appointed Revenant in particular, but more of the Ascendi.
Tenebrae stood from her task of sorting dishcloths, and looked at the two men. First, to Rheven, she replied somewhat stiltedly. "Yes, as a mater of fact, I do have a means of nulling magic, quite effectively. And of course, it applies only to spells and magical items or all the Undead would be... " She paused to remember the right word, and failed. "De-animated. Along with other magical beings. Have you any suggestions?" She nodded then, to Hume. "Wearisome isn't the word for it, pet. I have had to rebuild, constantly, never mind the rampant beginners who like to practise in my pub. But I am at a loss for anything else to do."
Tenebrae winked to Thea. "Many are the resources of Tene, pix. I too have my ... friends. In high places."
Hume flicks his eyes upwards under lowering lids as yet another woman makes reference to him as her pet, but spreads his arms wide, wings following, as he turns to face the tavern. He raises his hands high, spreading his fingers, "Enough talk! The tavern is clear, let us set it alight, and dance in the flickering red and gold by the light of the flames!"
Thea shouted, "Wait!"
Rheven nods first to Hume, speaking to him. "Undoubtedly, but I personally would not be content to rely on that alone." Thea's gaze is met with the arch mage's own, but he says nothing...instead, his attention slowly drifts to Tenebrae and to her he speaks now. "What most don't understand is that even barriers against magic can be disassembled by...magic itself. Of course, this takes quite a bit of expertise and skill, one I doubt many in this land actually have. But...suggestions? For what, exactly, if you already have a means to that end?"
Tenebrae poked Hume and pointed downward. "We await Kasyr. And the Chitterling.'
Thea looks about in a slight panic, seeing no sign of him she turns towards Tenebrae, "Where is he? And that..thing?"
Tenebrae shrugged once more, at Rheven's comment, and shook her head. "There's very few who might undo my barrier. Very few indeed, and they'd need a lot of ... help. Which I doubt they'd gather enough of.." She seemed unwilling to discuss it further. "I meant, any suggestions to the alternative."
Hume looks down and to the side at Tenebrae, hands still held high, and seems to be weighing the pros and cons of simply setting the place afire now. He says, "The fellow is a tiefling after all, he'd likely survive. But in deference to your wriggling critter, I suppose we can wait a moment longer."
Thea shared the glance with the Archmage, knowing full well with enough knowledge and skill, an Adept could breech a barrier. Meantime, she was ever curious to see this larvae and the tiefling return from the cellar.
Rheven lifts his shoulders into a simple shrug. "I don't. Just keep in mind, the benefits are smothered along with the negatives when you empty the wells of magic in that establishment."
Tenebrae addressed Thea and Hume, together. "I'm a little worried.. but loathe to send anyone down..." She glanced in the cellar's direction, worriedly. "Kasyr is aware of its nature." She looked to Thea, then. "How about you, pix? Is there another way to ensure my pub's safety from delinquent mages and fools?"
Dulcinea meandered back over to the crowd, having finished helping and annoying Steadman for the night. Plus, she had heard something about lighting the tavern on fire, and she was curious to watch. Just overhearing the tiefling's name sent several mixed feelings through her, unconsciously her right hand went to her chest, clutching at something underneath her shirt. Assured of the thing's presence, she turns her attention to the tavern, a bit of worry in her tone as well. "I don't think he'd much appreciate being set on fire...we might wanna get him out first." Overhearing the conversations, but not understanding what critter they were talking about, she takes a step towards the building. "I can go see what's taking him so long..."
Hume mutters, "Lock the doors."
Tenebrae frowned again at Dulcinea. "Perhaps just poke your head in..." She bit her lip. "That creature's not one to trifle with. If it looks like it's running free, bolt. Clear?"
Dulcinea gives an affirmative nod, before making her way into the building. "Just one little peek to tell him he's missing the party..."
Thea issues forth a sigh, coming to rest atop Hume's left shoulder now in a much smaller stature, "Tene, it can be breeched by an Adept..a Master in the arts. Unless.." She glanced to Rheven once more, "if it were the derivative of an Ascendi's power that created the barrier..there is a better chance at it not being broken."
Rheven said to Thea, "Even then, those close and gifted by the Ascendi could potentially unweave it. Don't look at me, though. I command no power of ascendi, as I serve none of them. But yes, it would add to the probability of it not being broken. I seriously doubt there are more than a handful of that caliber."
Hume chuckles at the thought, and winks to the pixie as she alights on his scales. He suggests, "If there was a god, or demi-god, you had in mind for protection of the place, a shrine to them -- hidden in a dark corner, the basement or attic -- would serve not only to protect the establishment all the better, but would also bring down their wrath on any would-be assailant." He grins, showing long rows of fangs, "Then again, I just enjoy drinking in temples."
Thea nods her agreeance to Rheven's words, then looking on Tene once more, "Aye. What he says is so. And those I would worry of being capable, well..they are mostly your allies."
Tenebrae said to Thea, "Yes, pix. How very true." She busied herself with a tray of forks. "Now, as to the rebuilding. The place will be stone, mostly. Only fittings will be wooden, to minimise fires from regular sources. Black stone but..." She frowned. "It's a bit drab. I might need help with swatches again."
Rheven adds once more, wrinkling his nose. "Of course, I'm of the opinion that gods are as fickle as the humans they claim to rule over. If you choose to bring one of their blessings into this, it could potentially prove disastrous if they suddenly decided not to favor you. But don't let my paranoia convince you otherwise if you are keen on the idea."
Thea chuckles at the thought, "Very well. Then we will have to meet at a time when we can run the men folk off again." That being said, she turns sights towards that empty stairwell again, "What in nine hells could be going on down there?" She mutters under breath then leans back against her scaley perch, propping her torso with her elbows.
Thea said to Rheven, "It was a mere suggestion. You and I both share similar knowledge in the areas of magick..she wanted a barrier that could stand unwavered by a mere neophyte. It was my best advice on the matter."
Rheven said to Thea, "I know. A complex barrier without the divine addition would likely suffice though."
Tenebrae joined Thea in her repose, shaking her head. "He's probably playing fetch with the thing..." Her eyes went to Rheven. "I have reason to believe that people close to you are planning causing trouble in Vailkrin, or at least challenging my position here. Nothing certain but.. enough to warrant my concern. Your wife..." She gave him a polite smile. "Has some dubious friends. Too, might I congratulate you on your wedding, and my apologies for not attending. I was ... down a hole."
Thea said to Rheven, "Then perhaps if she is compliant and confident enough in our married skills..we can see to aid with it? *she looks on Tene expecting her input*"
Hume smiles to himself, thinking that if /he/ were to construct a magic barrier for protection of an item, he might just leave in a tiny sneaky way that only he knew of, to unravel the enchantment... just in case the need arose, you understand.
Tenebrae turned to Thea. "Please, do not be cross with me, or lead you to think I have no trust in your abilities or intentions..." She included the mage in her glance. "Either of you. But if all goes well, I'd rather an entirely neutral source. If this does not occur, then yes, I think a mixture of the two magics you both possess could indeed provide a formidable barrier."
Rheven lofts a brow, crossing his arms against his chest. "I'm unaware of it, truthfully. Perhaps you could fill me on the finer details of what you have heard?" He lets a pause go before continuing, "Don't think I have anything to do with it. As I've already said, it would be counterproductive for me to stir any trouble here. If I wanted to do it, I would do it quite boldly and not with some sort of underhanded plot, as well..." Trailing off suddenly, he ends with a simple statement. "Thank you. Worry not, I took no offence at your absence."
Thea could nearly hear the wheels turning in the saurian's brain, squeaky and sneaky though they were. A flicker of mischief danced in her eyes but she knew this would need serious attent.
Tenebrae shook her head at Rheven's request, her voice rueful. "I have not concrete proof yet. I may, soon. I do not wish to jump to unfortunate suppositions, as you can imagine. I hope to get the whole thing sorted, without the need to bother you in any way."
Rheven said to Thea, "If she ever believes it is needed, I will lend my magic, certainly."
Thea shrugs to Tene's dismissal, "No worries, Tene. Should you need or want of my help, you know where to find me." The mention of Britta and her friends brought on another question, "And there is one of them..Brandi? I think her name is?" Thea's expression grew dark at the mention, "I plan to eat her." She states quite plainly.
Rheven said to Tenebrae, "Very well. If it does turn out to be someone you perceive to be 'close' to me, or a 'friend' of mine...do let me know. I will exercise my authority to put their effort to rest."
Tenebrae pursed her lips, and became quite busy with the forks a moment. "I really do wish Steady would shine these properly..." Her eyes rested on Hume, then. "And your fires may come in handy for a little task in days to come.. I would pay you well, for the effort."
Rheven said to Thea, "Go ahead. She's loud and bothersome. Britta seems to agree as well, in private."
Thea chuckles to Rheven, "Quite the understatement. But aye, should I find her before Keter does that is."
Hume smiles kindly at Tenebrae, the dragon beginning to look sleepy in his wait for the blaze, and husks, "For my services, any recompense you'd care to favor on me, Tenebrae, would be accepted most graciously."
Tenebrae looked up to Thea and Rheven, and nodded to both, in turn. "Thankyou, pix. As ever, a help. It's appreciated. And as for any potential.. trouble..." She canted her head slightly, studying Rheven. "Let's hope war isn't necessary. But should it look that way, or there be a way you might help, I will of course let you know immediately."
Rheven grumbles to himself as he eyes the soon to be levelled tavern. "Is he perhaps picking it apart and roasting the individual pieces to eat? This has taken quite a long time. Even for formidable creatures."
Thea couldn't agree more, "Tene, are you certain the thing has not managed to have them both for a late night snack?" She turns an eye to the same spot as before, not a shadow nor trace of the tiefling or Dulcinea.
Tenebrae tried not to allow worry to mar her expression, but took a few steps toward where the pair had disappeared to. "Perhaps I should go and look..."
Thea lofts one brow, weary gaze following the vampiress while hoping she didn't indeed fall down yet another hole. She did have a way of doing that. "Be careful, Tene!" She calls from her perch at Hume's shoulder.
Tenebrae snorted a little laugh- attractively of course- and said to Hume, "Apologise? I need the place demolished..."
Hume looks at the lurking structure, somewhat rickety now and soaked in as much gore as alcohol. He strokes his chin, "Demolished, you say? Why not simply burn it to the ground? Send the den of demons to a fiery hell and give a bonfire for the amusement of the crowds as well." He looks slyly at Tenebrae, "We could always home someone gets locked inside?"
Tenebrae lofted a brow. "Well, that would work-- but first I need a hand moving the piano out.." She looked about as though expecting someone, her expression slightly concerned. "Preferably someone .. big."
Tenebrae waved to Thea, then. "Ello pix. Up for some demolition work?"
Hume heaves a sigh and flexes his claws, you get the impression this isn't the first time he's been asked to move a piano. He mutters something about the women just wanting to see him flex his muscles, but asks resignedly, "It's a grand, isn't it?"
Tenebrae nodded. "Baby Grand. Do be careful of the... no, nevermind, they are aren't animate. Just ignore the sounds." She smiled sweetly. "Thankyou."
Thea nods affirmatively, "Aye, but shouldn't we take some of the goods and store them elsewhere, Tene?" She was concerned about the spirits..but the dust as well.
Hume perks up a little and nods, growling, "A baby grand? Well then, could be worse." He presses his lips together as Tene suggests it may be a /haunted/ piano, but none the less trudges inside the Corpse. You hear the scrapings of some chairs and furniture, followed by some grunting and cursing. A long moment of silence follows, then a sudden crescendo of discordant notes slams out in to the night, followed by many impish voices tittering. A throaty roar silences the voices, and an instant later a scaled tail thrashes out, ripping a hole to the side of the doorway to make room for the hulking piano that presently appears, pushed by Hume, who strains against it with his back, his talons digging into the floor and ground for purchase.
Tenebrae thought that was a good idea. "Alright, I'll have Steady take all the crates next door-- the Town Hall isn't open yet, so we can put everything there."
Tenebrae said to Hume, "Oh, very good-- can I have it over there..." She pointed to the east. "In the Town Hall.""
Thea moves to help the one-eyed keep with the stock. Shuffling sounds of boxes being stacked are accompanied by the clinking of the bottles. A loud crash is heard just before, "Steadman! That was my favorite!" from the pixie. Groaning she continues to move what she can, making sure not to waste another of the special blend in the dark glass she had so come to love.
Tenebrae spoke a word to the clumsy barkeep that hadn't been heard outside certain orcen pirate's dens for two centuries, and flapped a hand toward the Hall. "We'll need stronger men to carry all that..."
Rheven notices a gathering below and slows the flapping of his newly gained wings, coming to a graceful landing among the crowd. The arch mage certainly looks different than before, his once pearly fangs now a darker, obsidian-like color, along with the aforementioned wings. "What's the occasion? I do hate to intrude, but it is a public road..."
Hume grinds the piano to a halt, his tongue lolling from his mouth, leaning on the heavy dark wood casing -- which still chitters with hidden voices -- and stares at Tene with disbelief as she points of down the street. He heaves a sigh and throws himself against the burdensome thing again, inching it down the uneven road, his shoulders straining and lips uttering curses to help it on its way.
Tenebrae paused in her speech, to... stare... at Rheven. "What in the name of Sven's purple... How'd you end up with wings? And yes, a little help'd be nice. We're moving stock out. Grab a crate."
Tenebrae pulled at her lower lip a moment. "Of course, -somebody- has to cage the Chitterling."
Thea promptly hands over said crate, Steadman taking advantage by loading several more atop it. "There we are." The Druidess continues to shuffle about, piling bottles into whatever bins she can find that will be suitable enough for storage. The pouches of dust are tucked neatly into a large jar, as many as will fit anyway. She looks over to see what progress has been made by the others at this point.
Rheven glances at Tenebrae, giving the woman a smirk that again reveals those darker fangs. "It is a long story...one that has been coming to form for quite a long time now. You have heard of the revenants of old, yes? Lasher and his brethren? I stand among them now...I did this not so much for personal power, though. The quality of the vampiric race in this land is at a startlingly low level...I believe it is time we regained our prestige and respect."
Tenebrae raised her brow again at the.. revenant. "Oh really. I had had much the same idea." Her tone was slightly flat. "Wasn't Vakarash all about murdering all the vampires?"
Tenebrae started loading bottles into crates, as well, and gave Thea a brief flash of a look while she worked.
Rheven nods slowly and raises a hand, likely some sort of gesture for a pause. Ducking into the tavern, he emerges with one of the larger crates along his shoulder, held against an arm along with the support of a leathery wing. "He was, but he and I had an agreement of sorts...this was a gift I earned. Of course, I had to make one other commitment, but I am under no god...it was simply a favor that lined up with something I'd already desired to do for the longest time. Where do you need this...crate to go?"
Thea caught the look and paused her task long enough to move closer to the vampiress, leaning in to whisper.. "What's wrong?"
Tenebrae merely clenched her jaw and gave the pixie a slight shake of head, muttering, "Tell you later." She straightened, quiet while Rheven spoke, and merely pointed East. "Into the empty Town Hall, next door, thanks." Her eyes were cool on the revenant.
Kasyr took that particular moment to wander over, having been subtly aware that there was something or other of note that was supposed to be here. Mind, at the mention of the Chitterling, the tiefling couldn't help but grimace; given there was a particular degree of familiarity with the thing- unpleasant as would be the norm with that breed of...Well, ..Whatever it was beyond a Chitterling. So, of course, the tiefling would stray closer towards the particular vicinity of that creatures mention. It wasn't like he could really go about announcing his presence anyway- and Tenebrae was held in slightly higher esteems than to garner her attention with a stale biscuit. Really, the most he could do was just weave past those various items being carried back and forth, to creep up on Tenebrae and stare at her until she noticed him.
Hume comes back down the street from the east, dusting off his claws and walking with what must be a slight limp, muttering all the way. He shoots a good-natured glare at Tenebrae as he stalks past, and assists with the unloading of crates from the tavern.
Rheven simply nods to Tenebrae and moves along to store the crate.
You winced, feeling eyes on her, and turned to find... eyes on her. "Kasyr, than the gods. We're demolishing the old pub. I have ... plans. For the new one. But first, I need a little help with our friend. In the cellar." Her smile was small, though her eyes held something of amusement. "You up for it?"
Tenebrae looked to Rheven on his return. "I suppose this means you intend to play King of the Vampires and invade my town?" The woman was abrupt. No point in beating about the bush.
Thea took definite note of the sudden chill in the air between Tene and Rheven, shaking it off with a shudder of her wings as she spotted the saurian, "Mind giving me a hand or two?" She asks with a grin while handing over a small crate and a large jar, "I'd recommend not dropping that one in particular. While it is none of mine, it may well be potent enough combined to cause you a week's worth of itching." The pixie was of course speaking in reference to the contents of dust that had been packed into the glass.
Kasyr had dealt with gods, was still entangled in that particular tug of war between gods; had been subject to all sorts of oddities and general bits of weirdness. Hell, he'd fallen into the pool; ...but he still couldn't help but offer a less than happy look at the request; memories of that thing tied in with his much more 'mortal' days not quite able to be shoved aside. Still, albeit the fact that his ears had seemingly attempted to flop forward as though in search of refuge, he found himself nodding carefully to the vampiress, head cocking towards the bar with a seemingly curious look.
Tenebrae glanced aside to Kasyr, something of amusement returning to her eyes. "There's an adamantine cage down there, ought to keep it... " She smiled. "Well. hopefully out of the way."
Hume lifts out the jar and regards its contents, his talons clicking on the glass suffused with tiny bubble here and there. He taps on the lid to make sure it's secure and replaces it carefully amidst the hay packing it in the crate. When the pixie's back is turned, his eyes narrow and dart between Thea and the jar of itching powder, a scheme for later hatching in his mind.
Tenebrae was pointing downward, as though to indicate the cellar.
Rheven comes to an abrupt stop, staring at Tenebrae for a few silent moments before shaking his snowy head. "Why would I want to do that? I intend to bring the race together and make it stronger, not tear it apart. Of course, it is only natural I be one of the central figures in such...but no, force is something I seek to avoid. Vailkrin, for the longest time, represented the state of the vampiric race; always well known and favored, but lacking in direction, command, and order. This may have changed since you've gotten a grasp here, I haven't really been around long enough to notice. But it would be quite symbolic if we could make Vailkrin into a fortress for our race. No longer a city to be trampled and traded among whatever worthless warlords come by."
Tenebrae coughed softly, and returned her gaze to Rheven. "I have already commenced the work required to do so, your... Majesty." She flapped a hand to the west. "Building adequate homes. Planning our City Guard. All the rest. Nice of you to look in, though. As to the fortress, I have such a plan in mind... " Here, her expression brightened somewhat, though the gleam in her eyes was sharp. "I dare say you might approve."
Kasyr had a sinking feeling, one which was unfortunately spiking up to all odds and ends. Still, at least there wouldn't be a goblin village or a herd of spiders to contend with- just...an overtly large wormesque thing of large proportions with teeth most likely bigger than him at this point. ....Was it any bigger? ...Tenebrae seemed fairly sure it could fit into the cages. Kasyr couldn't just sit there and mull upon that potential portent of painful Chitterling induced perforation, however~ As much as wasting time did seem a pleasant pastime... Thus, with little to do save offer Joliette a bow, the hybrid promptly slipped away from the imminent banter and into the tavern...but only after giving Rheven a particularly indignant look after that warlord comment.
Thea 's alighted orbs settled on the vampiress as she listened discreetly to the conversation, hands still busy gathering the odds and ends, glasses and various kitchen tools shifting over one another as they were packed away. A particularly large cauldron was then eyed by the Druidess, small grin tearing at her lips as she nudges Hume, "I bet we could even fit -you- in that one."
Hume stomps over to the enormous vessel, strains for a moment to lift it, and settles it over his head, upside down it passes slightly past his mid upper arms, obscuring his head from view. His voice booms out from within with an echo, "If you're offering to give me a bath, I accept!"
Rheven narrows his eyes slightly at the tone of Tene's words, but he says nothing to indicate he has any sort of qualm. "I see. I more meant a fortress in the figurative sense, but one in the literal would do well also." Pausing, the arch mage's gaze softens slightly. "I know you have your doubts, but I do not come to force my fellow Kindred to bow to me. I have no use for sniveling sycophants...of which many weaker vampires in this land are indeed. I simply think we are no longer truly feared and respected as a race, and I intend to fix that."
Thea simply laughs and stands in ponder on that one for a moment, head shaking soon after. "Perhaps another night. But you would fit nicely with a little..help." She clears her throat and grabs up a stack of rags, wondering where the hell Steadman had run off to.
You couldn't help something of a dubious look, considering recent information come to light, but too, she did not speak her thoughts aloud. "I have also been hard work forging various alliances with Cabal and Vailkrin both. We are well-covered, in the case of invasion." She smiled, the expression mostly genuine. "You can trust me on that."
Hume carries off the cauldron a little unsteadily, and with weaving steps as he's forced to looking at the ground beneath him for guidance. He zigzags off to the east, taking the cauldron away, muttering that it's big enough for two.
Tenebrae mumbled something about "force" and behinds, and stacked a few crates rather too untidily. One toppled, sending its contents to a shatter of glass and white liquor to the ground.
Thea jumps at the sudden shattering, eyes darting towards the area Tene had been working in, "Everything ok over there?" Thea knew the tense situation had Tene more than a little stirred, but knew nothing of the full details..yet. She grabs up a stray rag and weaves through the crates to find the source of the commotion.
Hume trudges back to the site of the renovation, his talons crunching through the bits of broken glass without notice. He leans in the doorway calling out, "Anything left in there?"
Rheven nods slowly, his leathery wings tucking back behind him once more. "That is certainly good news. You can always come to me for resources if necessary, as well - you may think I look down on you, but don't let me be so arrogant to assume your thoughts. But should you think so, I do not. I know well how influential you are, and you will certainly have an integral role in restoring the dignity of our race...as you already have proven."
Tenebrae glanced to Thea, and nodded. "Just a slip, pet. You know how clumsy I can be. Now, be careful when Kasyr brings the Chitterling up.." She shot a concerned look to the cellar. "It's.. rapacious. And who knows how big the thing's gotten, since it ate.,." She closed her mouth abruptly, blinking. "Well. Just be cautious."
Thea 's eyes widened a bit, mouth agape as she turns towards the stairwell, "Chitter...you mean that -thing- Creature found and brought in? You've kept it?"
Tenebrae returned her attention to Rheven. "Well. Thankyou. Don't be expecting favours, positions of power here for your friends, though. I am most concerned with finding the best people for the various roles needed in town. Even some of my own will no doubt be displeased but..." She shrugged lightly. "Can't please all of the people, as the saying goes." her prickliness had seemed to abate, somewhat though. "Now, how about a hand with the last of the crates? Once Kasyr has the Chitterling, we can get to the business of demolishing."
Hume holds up his hands, palms away from his chest at Thea's remark, he shakes his head, "I'm not going near it. /Whatever/ it is."
Tenebrae chuckled softly, and replied to Thea, "Oh no... that was something else. The Chitterling is the larvae of a desert-worm. Ugly thing. It had a rather large appetite for spiders, though, which break through from the Underdark now and then." She shuddered a little. "Big ones."
Dulcinea had seen the commotion from down the street. All the hustle and bustle and clutter in front of the tavern was a strange sight to be sure, and she hurried her pace to reach the area quickly. Pausing on the edge of the ruckus, just in time to watch Tene knock over a crate of some kind, she had to take a moment to survey the entire scene. A small laugh escaped her lips and she shook her head, wondering what her latest absence had robbed from her. "Well...this is certainly new."
Hume furrows his brow together at the mention of spiders. Big spiders. And awaits the arrival of the baby sandworm.
Thea looks quite relieved that it was not the same creature, but curious as ever to lay eyes on it, her head craned down the stairs a bit, "Aye, had an appetite for those myself on occasion." She quips then skips back towards the last remaining items.
Rheven chuckles lightly at the thought, lifting another crate and ignoring the one that's undoubtedly full of broken glass and debris. "I don't expect that. Even if I did, I have few I can call 'friend' to expect it for. I have those I respect and those I don't, but few can I honestly call 'friend'. But now, let me get this to the hall for you..."
Tenebrae gave a wave to her clansmate, the flourish ending with her forefinger pointed at the Corpse. "Knocking the old place down, Dulci. It's seen too many fights in its day, and isn't stable anymore. So, we build afresh and with.. certain defences against attack. Unfortunately, I cannot prevent stupidity, also, but at least the action of the stupid will be somewhat deterred." this said, she peered at the woman more closely. "How are you?"
You turned a quick glance to Thea. "There's still not a cure for stupidity yet, I take it?"
Hume shrugs, "There's a wonderful cure, but it's typically fatal to the patient."
Dulcinea follows the woman's gesture to the old tavern, feeling a great deal of nostalgia for the memories she had made there. "Well, all good things must come to an end and all that...I'm sure that the new one will be even better." Forcing a bright smile, she turns her attention to her clan leader, not quite meeting the other woman's eyes. "I'm just fine...terrific in fact!" The words would perhaps sound a bit hollow and a trifle forced, but being as how these were the first actual people she had talked to in weeks, she didn't want to unduly alarm them. "Really, I should be asking how you are...I never got a chance to talk to you after I helped attempt your rescue."
Tenebrae snickered softly at the dragon's comment, and turned to Steadman, who was kicking rocks by the path's edge. "Here, man, get to work clearing the kitchen. I want this place down before morning."
Thea shakes her head to the question, "Afraid that one is beyond my expertise, Tene. I believe it may have something to do with the chemical makeup of certain beings..that or someone peed in the stream."
Tenebrae turned a slightly suspicious look to Dulcinea, eyeing the woman up and down in that disconcerting fashion that suggested she had twigged that things had not been easy for the woman. "Mhm. Well, I am awfully glad to see you back. I have plans for a clinic here, designed specifically for the Undead and Vampiric races. Of course, I will need necromantic staff, but those with a knowledge of anatomy and general healing will be welcome, too.." She smiled softly. "Want to help setting it up?"
Tenebrae would have added something to her question, but was distracted by Thea's comment, which made her laugh out loud. "Just as well I never drink the water, pix?"
Rheven appears back along the path, dusting his robes of the dirt that was upon the crates. Turning his gaze up to Tenebrae again, the vampire speaks. "I have recently perfected a ward against fire. I could place one within the new establishment once it is finished...it would take either a number of weaker mages to destroy it, or..." He smirks - the sort of smug smirk that would make most just want to rip it off his face. "...A single mage more knowledgeable than I."
Thea calls from behind a rather hefty bit of cloth from some old draperies, "Aye. I'd particularly recommend avoiding it if the hue is that of beer." She mutters something about beer being the catalyst to cause most of the stupid being spread by further seeding.
Dulcinea makes a mental note to try and hide things better, having more or less forgotten just how disconcertingly accurate Tene was at reading people. A genuine smile lights the druid's face as she hears about the planned clinic, a frission of excitement passing through her at the thought of being able to contribute in some fashion again. Opening her mouth to accept, she suddenly stops, a frown marring her delicate features as she remembers the very reason for her retreat in the first place. "I would be more than happy to help you in any way I can Tene...although my services may not be quite what they once were." Gesturing to the various stacks and piles of stuff strewn about she offers her help, "Anything I can do now for you?"
Tenebrae gave Rheven a small nod as though of thanks. "I do have the magics of the tavern covered, but I appreciate your offer. I would take it up but..." She shrugged. "Magics will no longer work in the tavern. At all." The vampiress sighed. "I am weary of purple balls and people trying to drown us. So, as much as it displeases me, I shall need to ban magic from the place altogether."
Tenebrae spoke quietly to her clansmate, a slight frown marring her brow. "You and I, Dulci... shall have a little chat, later. For now, however, if you could help Steadman with the kitchen things, that'd be lovely."
Thea feigns a serious expression towards the vampiress, "Aye. Have to watch for those purple balls..and heads being batted about.."
Tenebrae pursed her lips at Thea's words. The pixie had a way of making her laugh at inopportune moments, and this was one. Rubbing her palm across her face, she then gave Thea a most serious look. "If we cut them off at the source, they won't be shooting anything, anywhere."
Rheven narrows his eyes slightly at the statement, find it a bit farfetched. "Do you have a way to do that, necessarily? It is not easy to create an anti-magic field that would choke such a large area...and even harder to make it impenetrable. Magic does have its uses in less malicious intentions, you know...strangling it out altogether will do almost as much harm as it will good."
Dulcinea gives wide eyes to the vampiress, simply nodding in agreement. There was nothing to it then...she'd have to let her little secret out of the bag. Suddenly feeling like a weight had been lifted, she gives Tene an odd sort of cheery smile before heading off towards the ever put upon Steadman. "'Ello, Steady, how's tricks?" Ignoring the bartender's slightly aggrieved expression, she jumps right into the fray.
Hume is brought up short by the mention of 'purple balls' and snaps his fingers, claws ringing together. He shakes a finger at Tenebrae in agreement, "Indeed! I've noticed the same thing! What is the fascination the mages of this land seem to have with orbs -- whatever color they may be, but I've seen the purple spheres referenced quite a bit -- It's uncanny. Did they all learn from the same adept?" He shakes his head, "An alehouse free of magic could be a good thing, though I suspect a spell will slip off there now and again. But as you say, hopefully none of the wearisome ones that have become all too common."
Rheven said to Hume, "It is not as ideal as it sounds. For instance, the tavern will have to be lit naturally....then, say, a stray candle or lamp falls and sends the place ablaze - not in magical flame, but natural, not bound to the laws of wards and the like. Dousing it without magic would be a much harder task before much of the tavern could be potentially ravaged."
Hume nods to Rheven, "Of course, magic is a fine thing and we all have it affect our lives on a daily basis." He sets his jaw to one side, "But inns are well used to such mishaps, and I hardly think handling a greasefire or the odd flaming curtain -- or flaming patron -- is beyond the abilities of the redoubtable Steadman."
Thea snickers at the saurian's words, having oft wondered the same thing, "What can you do, Hume? Some who learn the craft simply toss everything in their archaic learning aside and resort to playing with balls." The pixie shrugs and regards Tene, "Aye, I think it is a good idea to banish the magicks. You will need a hell of a barrier for some, however. And let us not forget that a -few-.." Viridians darted towards Rheven, "have aid of higher sources for their biddings." She wasn't speaking of the newly appointed Revenant in particular, but more of the Ascendi.
Tenebrae stood from her task of sorting dishcloths, and looked at the two men. First, to Rheven, she replied somewhat stiltedly. "Yes, as a mater of fact, I do have a means of nulling magic, quite effectively. And of course, it applies only to spells and magical items or all the Undead would be... " She paused to remember the right word, and failed. "De-animated. Along with other magical beings. Have you any suggestions?" She nodded then, to Hume. "Wearisome isn't the word for it, pet. I have had to rebuild, constantly, never mind the rampant beginners who like to practise in my pub. But I am at a loss for anything else to do."
Tenebrae winked to Thea. "Many are the resources of Tene, pix. I too have my ... friends. In high places."
Hume flicks his eyes upwards under lowering lids as yet another woman makes reference to him as her pet, but spreads his arms wide, wings following, as he turns to face the tavern. He raises his hands high, spreading his fingers, "Enough talk! The tavern is clear, let us set it alight, and dance in the flickering red and gold by the light of the flames!"
Thea shouted, "Wait!"
Rheven nods first to Hume, speaking to him. "Undoubtedly, but I personally would not be content to rely on that alone." Thea's gaze is met with the arch mage's own, but he says nothing...instead, his attention slowly drifts to Tenebrae and to her he speaks now. "What most don't understand is that even barriers against magic can be disassembled by...magic itself. Of course, this takes quite a bit of expertise and skill, one I doubt many in this land actually have. But...suggestions? For what, exactly, if you already have a means to that end?"
Tenebrae poked Hume and pointed downward. "We await Kasyr. And the Chitterling.'
Thea looks about in a slight panic, seeing no sign of him she turns towards Tenebrae, "Where is he? And that..thing?"
Tenebrae shrugged once more, at Rheven's comment, and shook her head. "There's very few who might undo my barrier. Very few indeed, and they'd need a lot of ... help. Which I doubt they'd gather enough of.." She seemed unwilling to discuss it further. "I meant, any suggestions to the alternative."
Hume looks down and to the side at Tenebrae, hands still held high, and seems to be weighing the pros and cons of simply setting the place afire now. He says, "The fellow is a tiefling after all, he'd likely survive. But in deference to your wriggling critter, I suppose we can wait a moment longer."
Thea shared the glance with the Archmage, knowing full well with enough knowledge and skill, an Adept could breech a barrier. Meantime, she was ever curious to see this larvae and the tiefling return from the cellar.
Rheven lifts his shoulders into a simple shrug. "I don't. Just keep in mind, the benefits are smothered along with the negatives when you empty the wells of magic in that establishment."
Tenebrae addressed Thea and Hume, together. "I'm a little worried.. but loathe to send anyone down..." She glanced in the cellar's direction, worriedly. "Kasyr is aware of its nature." She looked to Thea, then. "How about you, pix? Is there another way to ensure my pub's safety from delinquent mages and fools?"
Dulcinea meandered back over to the crowd, having finished helping and annoying Steadman for the night. Plus, she had heard something about lighting the tavern on fire, and she was curious to watch. Just overhearing the tiefling's name sent several mixed feelings through her, unconsciously her right hand went to her chest, clutching at something underneath her shirt. Assured of the thing's presence, she turns her attention to the tavern, a bit of worry in her tone as well. "I don't think he'd much appreciate being set on fire...we might wanna get him out first." Overhearing the conversations, but not understanding what critter they were talking about, she takes a step towards the building. "I can go see what's taking him so long..."
Hume mutters, "Lock the doors."
Tenebrae frowned again at Dulcinea. "Perhaps just poke your head in..." She bit her lip. "That creature's not one to trifle with. If it looks like it's running free, bolt. Clear?"
Dulcinea gives an affirmative nod, before making her way into the building. "Just one little peek to tell him he's missing the party..."
Thea issues forth a sigh, coming to rest atop Hume's left shoulder now in a much smaller stature, "Tene, it can be breeched by an Adept..a Master in the arts. Unless.." She glanced to Rheven once more, "if it were the derivative of an Ascendi's power that created the barrier..there is a better chance at it not being broken."
Rheven said to Thea, "Even then, those close and gifted by the Ascendi could potentially unweave it. Don't look at me, though. I command no power of ascendi, as I serve none of them. But yes, it would add to the probability of it not being broken. I seriously doubt there are more than a handful of that caliber."
Hume chuckles at the thought, and winks to the pixie as she alights on his scales. He suggests, "If there was a god, or demi-god, you had in mind for protection of the place, a shrine to them -- hidden in a dark corner, the basement or attic -- would serve not only to protect the establishment all the better, but would also bring down their wrath on any would-be assailant." He grins, showing long rows of fangs, "Then again, I just enjoy drinking in temples."
Thea nods her agreeance to Rheven's words, then looking on Tene once more, "Aye. What he says is so. And those I would worry of being capable, well..they are mostly your allies."
Tenebrae said to Thea, "Yes, pix. How very true." She busied herself with a tray of forks. "Now, as to the rebuilding. The place will be stone, mostly. Only fittings will be wooden, to minimise fires from regular sources. Black stone but..." She frowned. "It's a bit drab. I might need help with swatches again."
Rheven adds once more, wrinkling his nose. "Of course, I'm of the opinion that gods are as fickle as the humans they claim to rule over. If you choose to bring one of their blessings into this, it could potentially prove disastrous if they suddenly decided not to favor you. But don't let my paranoia convince you otherwise if you are keen on the idea."
Thea chuckles at the thought, "Very well. Then we will have to meet at a time when we can run the men folk off again." That being said, she turns sights towards that empty stairwell again, "What in nine hells could be going on down there?" She mutters under breath then leans back against her scaley perch, propping her torso with her elbows.
Thea said to Rheven, "It was a mere suggestion. You and I both share similar knowledge in the areas of magick..she wanted a barrier that could stand unwavered by a mere neophyte. It was my best advice on the matter."
Rheven said to Thea, "I know. A complex barrier without the divine addition would likely suffice though."
Tenebrae joined Thea in her repose, shaking her head. "He's probably playing fetch with the thing..." Her eyes went to Rheven. "I have reason to believe that people close to you are planning causing trouble in Vailkrin, or at least challenging my position here. Nothing certain but.. enough to warrant my concern. Your wife..." She gave him a polite smile. "Has some dubious friends. Too, might I congratulate you on your wedding, and my apologies for not attending. I was ... down a hole."
Thea said to Rheven, "Then perhaps if she is compliant and confident enough in our married skills..we can see to aid with it? *she looks on Tene expecting her input*"
Hume smiles to himself, thinking that if /he/ were to construct a magic barrier for protection of an item, he might just leave in a tiny sneaky way that only he knew of, to unravel the enchantment... just in case the need arose, you understand.
Tenebrae turned to Thea. "Please, do not be cross with me, or lead you to think I have no trust in your abilities or intentions..." She included the mage in her glance. "Either of you. But if all goes well, I'd rather an entirely neutral source. If this does not occur, then yes, I think a mixture of the two magics you both possess could indeed provide a formidable barrier."
Rheven lofts a brow, crossing his arms against his chest. "I'm unaware of it, truthfully. Perhaps you could fill me on the finer details of what you have heard?" He lets a pause go before continuing, "Don't think I have anything to do with it. As I've already said, it would be counterproductive for me to stir any trouble here. If I wanted to do it, I would do it quite boldly and not with some sort of underhanded plot, as well..." Trailing off suddenly, he ends with a simple statement. "Thank you. Worry not, I took no offence at your absence."
Thea could nearly hear the wheels turning in the saurian's brain, squeaky and sneaky though they were. A flicker of mischief danced in her eyes but she knew this would need serious attent.
Tenebrae shook her head at Rheven's request, her voice rueful. "I have not concrete proof yet. I may, soon. I do not wish to jump to unfortunate suppositions, as you can imagine. I hope to get the whole thing sorted, without the need to bother you in any way."
Rheven said to Thea, "If she ever believes it is needed, I will lend my magic, certainly."
Thea shrugs to Tene's dismissal, "No worries, Tene. Should you need or want of my help, you know where to find me." The mention of Britta and her friends brought on another question, "And there is one of them..Brandi? I think her name is?" Thea's expression grew dark at the mention, "I plan to eat her." She states quite plainly.
Rheven said to Tenebrae, "Very well. If it does turn out to be someone you perceive to be 'close' to me, or a 'friend' of mine...do let me know. I will exercise my authority to put their effort to rest."
Tenebrae pursed her lips, and became quite busy with the forks a moment. "I really do wish Steady would shine these properly..." Her eyes rested on Hume, then. "And your fires may come in handy for a little task in days to come.. I would pay you well, for the effort."
Rheven said to Thea, "Go ahead. She's loud and bothersome. Britta seems to agree as well, in private."
Thea chuckles to Rheven, "Quite the understatement. But aye, should I find her before Keter does that is."
Hume smiles kindly at Tenebrae, the dragon beginning to look sleepy in his wait for the blaze, and husks, "For my services, any recompense you'd care to favor on me, Tenebrae, would be accepted most graciously."
Tenebrae looked up to Thea and Rheven, and nodded to both, in turn. "Thankyou, pix. As ever, a help. It's appreciated. And as for any potential.. trouble..." She canted her head slightly, studying Rheven. "Let's hope war isn't necessary. But should it look that way, or there be a way you might help, I will of course let you know immediately."
Rheven grumbles to himself as he eyes the soon to be levelled tavern. "Is he perhaps picking it apart and roasting the individual pieces to eat? This has taken quite a long time. Even for formidable creatures."
Thea couldn't agree more, "Tene, are you certain the thing has not managed to have them both for a late night snack?" She turns an eye to the same spot as before, not a shadow nor trace of the tiefling or Dulcinea.
Tenebrae tried not to allow worry to mar her expression, but took a few steps toward where the pair had disappeared to. "Perhaps I should go and look..."
Thea lofts one brow, weary gaze following the vampiress while hoping she didn't indeed fall down yet another hole. She did have a way of doing that. "Be careful, Tene!" She calls from her perch at Hume's shoulder.