The Priestess, the Dragon and the Ranger

Torgan High Priestess Sirena wanders the realm of Zolio, marveling at its visual simplicity until she arrives at a great open temple. She climbs to the top to discover a place of peace and rest. There is an urn blazing brightly and she drops to her knees. "Belenus" she prays, "Hear me." She opens her mind to receive her God but she feels only a deep void. "Where are you my Beloved?" she asks. She listens but the only sound is the fire crackling. There is no presence. She tries again, letting her mind float free in a second attempt to reach her God. This has always worked before, but He is not there this time. She begins to weep and wonders if He has left her? She needs to hear His voice and feel his love. Sirena begins to weep as she tries harder to sense Him and fails. What has she done to offend Him? Where has He gone?

Random Mistwalker: hsssss...(Draconian): intakr ayo grhui kuest rl'eldo?

Sirena hears a hiss through her sobs and turns. She is relieved to see the dragon, beloved of her God. But she is surprised when it suddenly approaches her. She is afraid it is attacking, can’t understand why, and she stumbles backwards and falls off the ledge where she lies unconscious on the ground.

The small black dragon swoops and swerves as it flies off the temple and down, closer to her. He licks his lips and approaches. Suddenly arrows fly through the air and score a direct hit on the dragon. The dragon flies up to identify the attacker and out of pure instinct, returns the attack. The dragon yells “Any who attack me will feel my fire.” Arrow after arrow strike the dragon. A fierce fight ensues that lasts for what seems like eternity. Arrows, dragon fire and claws are everywhere as the dragon swoops, attacks, pivots and flies and the stranger with the bow runs, hides, fires quickly and tries to find an advantage and avoid the dragon’s fierce attacks.

After both are badly injured the dragon lands on the temple and shouts, “Why do you fight biped? Why attack?”

The Sylvan Ranger Damian comes into view. “You attacked my friend. I saw you attack the High Priestess. Why did you attack?”

Random Mistwalker: I did not.. I was asking why she was here.. You attacked me. You hit me with your arrow first!

Damian: “So this is all a misunderstanding? I saw her lying on the ground with you over her. What was I to think?”

Random Mistwalker: “Not that I would not have attacked.. she was kneeling.. when I was hit with an arrow. Perhaps she was prey.. perhaps not depending on how she answered…”

Damian: “So you admit you thought her potential prey. Did she answer you? “

Random Mistwalker: “No… for I was hit.. before she was able to answer.. if she was a foolish one who wanted nothing more than to take and show no respect… then yes…”

Damian: "We will never know then, will we?" Random Mistwalker narrows his eyes. Damian keeps his bow ready while he talks to the dragon. “Then let us go our own ways in peace. I will stop shooting if you will fly away. I will tend to her wounds.”

Random Mistwalker eyes his wounds.. "Very well.. you have much to lose.. but I shall leave you in peace"

Damian: “I do indeed but I am not afraid and so shall I leave you in peace. Perhaps we can meet again under better circumstances.”

Random Mistwalker turns and pulls an arrow from his scales and spits it on the floor of the temple. "Very well.. we shall see." He flies off without another word.

Damian wraps a hasty bandage around his own arm and runs off to find Sirena. He looks at Sirena lying on the ground "Sirena, are you hurt?" He kneels and takes out his medical kit. He applies a poultice from his kit to her forehead. He reaches into his kit, takes out a vial of smelling salts and breaks it under Sirena's nose. Then he impulsively leans over and kisses her and cries "please be alive"

Sirena gasps from the pungent odor of the salts and her eyes flutter open as she feels his lips touch her. She reflexively slaps him. "How dare you!"

Damian sees her move and exclaims, "You are alive! OUCH! Why did you hit me? I just saved your life! You were about to be eaten by a dragon.”

Sirena puts a hand to her head "Yes, I remember a dragon and I remember his breath knocking me off the ledge.”

Damian: “You were unconscious on the ground. I came upon you with the dragon leaning over you. I fired at him and engaged him in a battle. I nearly died saving you.”

Sirena starts to cry, "It was horrible. Belenus was gone." She suddenly hears the ranger. "You shot at the dragon? He is gone?”

Damian says stoutly, “Belenus may not have been here but I was lucky to happen upon you. And yes, the dragon is gone. I negotiated an end to the hostilities with him. He claimed it was a misunderstanding. The dragon flew off a few minutes ago and I ran to revive you.”

Sirena cannot believe the circumstances that have put her beside the Sylvan Ranger and she whispers, “I can well believe it a misunderstanding. Dragons are beloved by Belenus.” She winces as she moves her arm and begins to carefully move her arms and legs, checking herself for damage.

Damian: “Although the dragon claimed I shot first, he admitted he was sniffing you to see if you were suitable prey. He would have killed and eaten you I'm sure had I not attacked.”

Sirena is aghast. "Sniffing me? I am Beloved by Belenus! Why would a dragon eat me?" She shakes her head, "This is not right.” She begins to weep quietly. “I could have been eaten by one of Belenus’ favorites.” She looks up at him "I do not understand this at all, but I thank you."

Damian: “Perhaps he was deranged by the mushroom plague. Who knows? Or perhaps he was sick and not in his right mind.” He kneels down and puts his arm around Sirena. “But all is well, you are safe." Sirena cries out as Damian's arm touches her shoulder and he notices she is wounded. “Let me bandage your wound. Show me where you are bleeding.”

Sirena shakes her head. "There is no blood. I am just aching and will bruise all over. I shall not be able to wear silks for two weeks." She stands a bit stiffly. “Thank you Sylvan Ranger. From what you say I might have died.”

Damian: “I think yes. Let me carry you to your home or to someplace safe.”

Sirena raises an eyebrow. She is already as close as she wants to be to the Sylvan Ranger in fact she is too close. She steps back.

Damian says hopefully, “Would you like me to walk you someplace?”

Sirena says curtly, “I can manage thank you.”

Damian: “Let me at least walk with you until you are in your own territory.”

Sirena is a bit shaken by the incident and replies without thinking, "I would welcome the assistance of a bow if that dragon returns. I think there is a tavern here and it is over the hill. "

Damian: “Good. Let us walk there then. A drink would do us both good.”

They both walk quietly for some time until they reach an empty tavern with an inviting fire. Sirena sinks gratefully into a chair. Damian speaks, "You should eat something. You have had quite a day"

Sirena responds, “I am not hungry. I just want to be home." She does not say she also wishes to be out of the ranger's presence and rests her head on the table.

Damian: “Sirena, now that you are safe and resting, I have a favor to ask.”

Sirena lifts her head "favor?"

Damian continues, “Some might even call it a debt to repay. I know you disdain Sylvan rangers, me included.”

Sirena frowns. "What debt? You have lent me no money.”

Damian continues: “I do not share your disdain. You might well have been dragon dinner tonight. It is a simple favor...”

Sirena: “I know, Damian, and I am thankful...even grateful that you were nearby.”

Damian: “I would like you to be my Lady. You know I have always been fond of you since I first saw you standing near me when I was injured in the wood. Now that I've saved your life I think that is only fair. I am not asking to marry you. I know you are a high priestess.”

Sirena is shocked and indignant: “Your Lady!?! You cheeky arrogant Sylvan Ranger! I asked nothing of you for saving your life so long ago. I am Torgan, and you are Sylvan. Yet you are the one asking for payment in return for what one would call a benevolent act?”

Damian: “You allowed me to be in your debt. And our lands may be different and occasionally at war but we do not have to be.”

Sirena protests: “I did not allow you to be in my debt. You took it upon yourself to believe you owed me something.”

Damian: “Well, be that as it may, I now ask this favor of you. Were it not for me you would be merely a dragon's burp by now. Where was your God tonight?”

Sirena hears Damian’s question about her God and her heart stops. Yes, where had He been tonight? She says indignantly “I admit I am thankful to be sitting here instead of in the belly of a dragon... but your Lady? Ha! Never!”

Damian: “I'm happy that you are at least thankful, and could it be that your God acted through me tonight? Gods do that sometimes.. They act through agents in the world...”

Sirena scowls at the ranger. “You presume much. If He were to act through another, why did he not choose a mighty Torgan Warrior instead of a..Sylvan Ranger?”

Damian: “It is simply a theory but it is one that the facts of this evening support. When I saw that dragon near you my mind changed in an instant. I can not explain why or how.”

Sirena laughs, a bit unnerved, "Your mind changed? How is that?”

Damian: “Perhaps my strength and skill with the bow against the dragon were guided by your God. I hit the dragon a lot, far beyond my normal skill level. Something has to explain that.”

Sirena leans forward and places her elbows on the table. She winces at the aches and says "Are you ready to embrace my God?

Damian leans towards her and replies "I am ready for you to explain Him to me and consider it."

Sirena says "I am willing to do that, if you would listen with an open heart"

Damian smiles, “I think we have the makings of a compromise."

Sirena says hesitantly, "Compromise?”

Damian: A good compromise will be that you be my Lady for a year and a day, the same amount of time I was your protector. And during that time you will teach me about your God and I will listen with an open mind.”

Sirena sputters "I don’t need a Lord ..or a protector. You presume too much.”

Damian: “That was no presumption, it was an offer from the heart.”

Sirena Lauria: “I will teach you about Belenus if you are willing to learn”

Damian prompts: “and....”

Sirena says emphatically “But I will not be your...Lady. I need no Lord of my own. I have Belenus and the Watch.”

Damian asks her, “What will you be then?”

Sirena sighs "I acknowledge that a debt exists and that payment must be made and since I held you to a year and a day, so I will agree with you. However, I will agree only to not frown or scowl at you.”

Damian strokes his chin.... “That's excellent but perhaps you could agree to actually smile as well.”

Sirena Lauria scowls, then forces a smile on her face "Agreed. I will treat you with the respect I reserve for Torgans and I will teach you of Belenus, for the period of a year and a day.”

Damian leans back in his chair happy. His wounds are healing in the warmth of the tavern with the food and drink and Sirena has just agreed to be pleasant to him. It is a small step, but one in the right direction.

A Disastrous Boat Ride

A search in Vana for Merfolk has unexpected consequences

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Damian: good day Sirena

Sirena greets him with “Good day Damian. I am very pleased to see you.”

Damian rubs his ears to see if there is something wrong with them. “Do you need some assistance?”

Sirena replies, "I am looking for mermaids and was hoping to take to the sea in a boat but I am not a good oarsman."

Damian: well then, I'll be glad to help. I'm good with boats. Do you have a boat? If not, I can find one.

Sirena says "I remember our previous boat ride and you only tipped me into the sea once!" She laughs ruefully, "I think the boat is this way." They walk along the shore until they come across an abandoned boat. Damian wipes the sweat from his brow and seats himself in the boat.

Damian: “Please sit in front of me.” Sirena lifts her skirts and daintily steps into the boat. “There you go. Now the boat will be more balanced and I can see you. Where to, fair lady?”

Sirena watches Damian take the oars expertly and smiles at him. “Along the coast m'lord. I am looking for swimmers.”

Damian: “Your wish is my command m'lady.” Sirena is more than content to watch Damian row as she leans back and trails her hand in the water. After a while the boat docks on a sandy shore and she steps off into the sand.

Damian asks, “Do you know if the mermaids are about?”

Sirena replies, “I do not know if we can spot any merfolk; they are elusive, but maybe we can find where they play.”

Damian: Perhaps we should sit by this fire then and dry our wet feet. I know nothing of the merfolk. Why do you want to find them?

Sirena: I have been inducted into the Society of Scholars and my first task is to research the mer.

Damian: Congratulations then

Sirena smiles modestly "It is because I am a cleric; we just never stop studying and learning.”

Damian: It is warm here. Perhaps we should take off our footwear.

Sirena shakes her head. "We do not have time to lollygag. I need to find where the merfolk play."

Damian shrugs his shoulders. "As you wish. We will walk in wet footgear and look for them."

Sirena sighs "Aye, you are right. I should remove my boots.” She bends over and unlaces her boots, pulls them off and ties the laces together. She slings them over her shoulder and begins to walk in the warm wet sand along the shoreline until she makes a fateful discovery. “We are stranded on an island you dolt!”

Damian wonders how he went from being smiled at to a dolt in just a few minutes. He says “I will take that as a compliment. And this is where you said the creatures lived.”

Sirena frowns " I will get wet swimming to shore and in this dress! I am stuck here.”

Damian: let us find the boat again

She says furiously, "You let the boat go out to sea. How can we find it again? You did this on purpose!"

Damian: No m'lady I would never endanger you on purpose. Let me think. Let's return to the fire while I consult my papers.

Sirena looks at Damian and scowls “You will just have to swim out and get it!”

Damian: I have an idea, I just need to work out the details. Please have a seat.

Sirena Lauria sits down angrily on the stump by the fire, scowling.

Damian: “I am thinking, be patient.” He suggests, “It is very warm here, perhaps we should take off our shirts.”

Sirena taps her feet, gets sand between her toes and then lifts a foot to brush the grit off.

Damian: would you like some help getting the sand from your toes?

Sirena gives him a dirty look, takes a deep breath to calm herself, and says, "Thank you but I can manage."

Damian: stay here while I examine the island. I may be able to make us a boat. I am good with my hands in more ways than one...

Sirena watches with a bit of relief as Damian wander offs, looking at trees and pulling at underbrush. After a long wait Damian reappears. “Come with me. I've fashioned a crude sailing craft. Perhaps it can get us back.”

Sirena follows him because she has no choice. She claps her hands when she sees a raft created out of small trees and lashed with vines.

Damian extends an arm “Let me help you on. Sit in front.” Sirena tries to balance on the floating platform and falls overboard.

Damian yells “Sirena! You fell out of the boat!”

Sirena sputters, “Damian I am never going on a boat ride with you again.” She swims to the shore.

Damian laughs as he plunges into the water and follows her. “Now we are both all wet. It is no problem, we will find a fire to dry our clothes.”

Sirena starts to cry, being wet and tired, "I am dripping and my dress is ruined.”

Damian says contritely, “I am sorry I made you sad m'lady. I was trying to help.”

Sirena says "How many more days till your debt is worked off? I cannot wait until you are gone! You cause nothing but trouble and aggravation. And now I am wet and cold."

Ever optimistic, Damian says, “Follow me. I will find us a warm fire.” Sirena slogs very ungracefully after him as he finds a small clearing with a fire. “Sit and get warm.”

Sirena greets the roaring fire with delight, "This is more like it."

Damian: there is food here also

Sirena says "I am not hungry, just cold and wet."

Damian: If you take off your clothes and put them over a log they will dry faster. I will not look.

Sirena says "I am not taking off my clothes in front of, or behind any man!"

Damian laughs, “Have it your way then.. we will just sit here until you are dry enough to continue. I have seen most of you at The Place anyway.”

Sirena gives him a dirty look "That is different. This is something else. You go away then and stay there. I see a shack you can sit in."

Damian shrugs. "As you wish Sirena. Let me know when you are ready to continue our quest."

Sirena grumbles "No more quest tonight." She makes sure Damian is in the shack before she drops the waistband of her skirt and spreads it out to dry in front of the fire. She removes her chemise and holds it up in front of her, hoping Damian is not peeking. She waves the chemise in the air wishing it would dry faster. The fire makes her drowsy and she lies down beside it and falls asleep.

Damian notices what he thinks is Sirena’s fall out of the corner of his eye and becomes concerned. He wonders if he should see if she is all right and he decides to check on her to be sure. He hurries to the figure on the ground and asks with concern, "Sirena, are you all right?

Sirena wakes with a start "Damian! " She realizes she is unclothed and grabs her chemise to cover herself. "Go away!"

Damian says, “Aha, you are fine. I was afraid for you.” He hands her a glass of mead to revive her.

Sirena waves her arms and shouts "Go away! " She knocks the mug over and it spills all over her chemise. She starts to cry. “At this rate I will never get dry!”

Damian “I have a medicine which will help you feel better. Let me give it to you.”

Sirena shouts "Wait! I need to put on my chemise.”

Damian: “I will close my eyes!” He rummages through his pockets with his eyes closed looking for something.

Sirena announces, "I have put on my chemise. I am covered." She looks longingly at her dress, but it is taking a long time to dry.

((Silverwing Benoir whispers: rummages though their pouch.))

Damian finds what he is looking for and hands her a small bottle “Here is a potion which will help you feel better and help dry you faster. Here, take this. It will make you feel better.”

Sirena takes it and sniffs it, not recognizing the smell, but not detecting any known poisons. She drinks it and says “Thank you.”

((Leather Pouch whispers: Sirena Lauria consumed a Love Potion, Spell lasts for 5 days.))

She says "This tastes sweet and clean. I like it." She smiles at the Sylvan Ranger and feelings of trust, content, and great happiness washes over her. She shakes her head a bit but the sensation remains.

Damian looks at her closely as he asks, "It is very sweet, how do you feel now?"

Sirena says "Yes, sweet it is and so are you to give me such a delicious drink. I feel warm and very happy right now. I feel light and full of air." She reaches for her now dry dress and tugs it on. "It is time I should be heading back to The Place. Will you walk with me?"

Damian smiles at Sirena, "I would be honored to walk with you"

Sirena giggles, "I would be honored to walk with a Sylvan Ranger such as you."

Damian asks, "do you know the way from here?"

Sirena says I think if we walk along the beach we can find our way"

Damian replies '”Fne.. but hold my hand so you don’t trip”

Sirena slides her hand into Damian's. She is quite content to let the Ranger guide her over the rocks and through the grasses that line the shore.

Damian says 'look at the pretty flowers in the meadow.' He smiles at Sirena and says 'they are almost as pretty as you'

Sirena looks at the handsome ranger and it as if she has never really seen him before. She smiles back at him and says "They are lovely and they smell so sweet."

After a blissful trek hand in hand along the shore, Damian asks, ”Is that your destination?"

Sirena answers, “Yes, that is Klavnork Keep, where The Place is."

Damian says, “follow me up the mountain then” Sirena huffs and pants as she climbs up the steep mountain. He asks “would you like me to carry you?"

Sirena nearly swoons to think of being held by Damian but replies "I think I can make it."

Damian says 'Fine, but if you change your mind I'll be happy to carry you.'

Damian says 'we are in your lands now'

Sirena replies "yes, shall I show you the way?'

Damian: yes, lead the way from here, but hold on to my hand tightly

Sirena Lauria gaily takes the ranger's hand and leads him up the path, all the time fully trusting this handsome, gracious man who is accompanying her home

They walk along the path, hand in hand, until she spots a dark patch of fur through the foliage. She stops and points “A bear!”

Damian: I see it. Is he safe?

Sirena says "You are the ranger. I do not know"

Damian: Many are not. Wait while I prepare my bow just in case.

Sirena's heart flutters as the ranger makes the way safe for her. She hurries past the big bear and looks at the Sylvan Ranger, "Thank you. That was so brave of you."

Damian: he appears harmless, but you can't be too sure.

Sirena flutters her eyelashes "You are so brave. I must hurry on my way, but perhaps I will see you later?"

Damian replies 'of course. I look forward to meeting you again'

Sirena hopes fervently that he will come watch her dance.

Damian: safe paths m'lady

Sirena curtsies, "Safe paths to Sylvhara m'lord"

Damian bows and turns to leave blowing her a kiss.

Sirena rushes off, all the time thinking of the handsome ranger.

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Emy & Cas, thank you so much for inviting me as blogger! *Giggles. I will try to remember to take pictures too!

Sirena Waits For An Answer

Damian enters The Place once again, hoping to find Sirena who had promised him an answer to his request and finds three women dancing. “Greetings everyone.”

ιηα (ina.crannock): greetings

Sirena says politely "Greetings Damian"

Jeni Luik lowers her eyes in respect

Damian: I see that all of your beauty is for my eyes only tonight. This is my lucky night.

Sirena Lauria says "pfffft"

Damian: I am not familiar with your sayings. Is 'pffft' a local greeting?

ιηα (ina.crannock): laughs

Sirena screws up her face to make a sharp retort and then laughs instead. She continues to dance, tying to ignore the Sylvan Ranger.

Damian savors the newly lit pipe while enjoying the dancers

Sirena watches the ranger smoke the pipe and hopes his head becomes muddled quickly before he remembers that she promised him an answer tonight.

Damian stands and leaves the pipe before it gets too strong. He says "Sirena, you promised me an answer to my request tonight. I hope I am not too late for it "

Sirena Lauria grimaces "I have thought long and hard about your request. You are aware that I really don’t need a protector, except perhaps when I am in Sylvan lands."

Damian smiles in response "Thinking is good and I am listening"

Sirena says slowly "I will accept your offer with reservations"

ιηα (ina.crannock) listens to the conversation.

Damian asks "and those reservations are?"

Sirena says "You must explain to your commander why you will be in Torgan lands so often. That is the first reservation. I will not be responsible for your loss of employment.”

Damian notes "fair enough"

Sirena continues “Second, the arrangement will be for a year and a day, no longer.”

Damian smiles "done"

Sirena smiles as she says "And last, you must learn to dance."

Damian hesitates... “to dance? to dance where? when?”

ιηα (ina.crannock): laughs. I want to see the ranger dance!

Damian: I am training to be a fighter

Sirena says "The dance is the most important thing in my life and you must learn to dance. I do not mean on the sand, as I do, but as others do."

Damian asks "Dance with others in here then?"

Sirena says "Of course! You do not expect ME to dance with you, do you?"

Damian looks disappointed

Sirena Lauria stops her dance and approaches Damian. She puts her hands on her hips. "Those are my terms."

Damian says "Let me summarize: 1. tell my commander, 2. one year and a day, 3. learn to dance.”

Sirena says "Perfect."

Damian asks "Is that it?

Sirena nods "If those are unacceptable I will understand"

Damian explains "I will speak with my commander. If he finds my quest acceptable I will agree."

Sirena Lauria says "pfffft"

Damian: another strange welcome?

Sirena Lauria laughs again. “Now I am waiting for your answer"

ιηα (ina.crannock) whispers .. Men are such strange beasts

Damian states "I will let you know as soon as I have a had a chance to speak with him"

Sirena Lauria inclines her head gracefully and walks to a bench to sit, dismissing him "Good evening Damian"

Damian: "I do not think it will be a problem with him. I must away for the evening. Good evening ladies. Enjoy your dancing."

Jeni says to Damian "May you be well"

ιηα (ina.crannock) waves as he passes

Damian: "Be well. I look forward to learning to dance with all of you."

ιηα (ina.crannock): laughs

Jeni says to Damian "You will find your soul."

Damian Waits For An Answer

Queens Ranger Damian enters The Place at Taure Ru, tired from his exploring, and notices the lovely Sirena dancing with others.

Sirena Lauria notices the sylvan ranger and sighs. Having been reminded that she is to be polite to all, she forces a smile and says "Good evening Damian"

Damian: Good evening Sirena. Good evening everyone.

GrandMother Wolf nods to Damian

Damian nods to Grandmother Wolf. “Good evening. Thank you for the lesson today.”

GrandMother Wolf: "You are welcome son, it is what I do"

Damian says 'Such a pity so many beautiful women are dancing here with such a small audience."

Sirena says sharply "Then you should feel honored."

Damian: It is a welcome relief to be able to rest in such nice surroundings after a day of exploring

Sirena tries to ignore the ranger politely.

GrandMother: "aye, it is a pleasant respite"

Damian asks Sirena "Have you considered my offer to be your protector?

Sirena looks at him "I do not need your protection and I have told you so."

Damian feels confused "But you asked for protection"

Sirena says "You are mad Ranger. I need no protection. The Place needs a peace keeper, but not one such as you"

Damian replies "Have it your way then. My offer will not last forever."

Sirena smiles, glad that they are in agreement at last and tries to lose herself in the dance.

Damian notes "You may not want me for a peacekeeper for this place but I am sworn to protect you none the less for saving my life so you have some personal protection whether you want it or not"

Sirena sighs, "Will you never be done with that? I was merely doing what my God and my training have bid me. If I had known the consequences of my actions I should have left you for dead."

Damian stands and leans against the wall. The smoke from the pipe has affected him. "Some day you will be thankful that you did m'lady"

Sirena stops dancing, turns to him and says "If I take you as my protector, what benefit for you?"

Damian: "What benefit for me you ask? The satisfaction of paying a debt, and to an enchanting woman.”

Sirena nods "That perhaps would be a way for the debt to be discharged." She says to herself "Perhaps he will then leave me alone"

Damian: “In the land where I come from, women like you are princesses and queens.”

Sirena says "Flattery indeed, I can see that you have been trained in diplomacy, with a silver tongue." She sighs "I will consider your offer. Come back tomorrow night and I will have an answer for you."

Damian replies "Thank you m'lady. You won't regret it should you decide in my favor. I will return tomorrow night as you ask."

Sirena inclines her head and returns to the dance circle.

No Good Deed Ever Goes Unpunished

These series of plays occurred over a three week period at The Place in the Klavnork Keep, Torgan Empire. Taure Ru

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Damian (silverwing.benoir): does anyone know where Sirena went? I would like to speak with her

Ina (ina.crannock): she is upstairs…points

Damian: aha thanks. He walks up the stairs and locates Sirena who is dancing on the balcony

Damian: Greetings Sirena. We meet again.

Sirena Lauria shakes her head and sees the trainee she once healed. "Greetings Damian."

Damian: I am Queen's Ranger Damian, here to make an announcement.

Sirena raises an eyebrow at the ranger and says "Well, spit it out man."

Damian: The dancer Sirena saved my life some weeks ago when she found me unconscious in the forest, shortly after I arrived in this land.

Manwell Roux: Greetings King Zig ... this is a nice place you have here ... I like it very much *looks around*

Damian: I owe Sirena my life.

Sirena calls down to the green orc "Greetings King Zig."

Damian: She made it clear that she does not like rangers and humans but ... It is not right that one so beautiful and talented should live her life with such fear in her heart.

Zig (grotch.qarnac): Greetings Lady Sirena

Damian: I hereby make it my quest to change the blackness she holds for rangers into lightness.

Manwell: In good time Lady Sirena ... in good time *smirks*

Damian: Such a light would only serve to make her even more beautiful than she already is.

Sirena is speechless for a split second. Then she says "You are crazed Damian. Go away."

Odil Lumiere: does not always pay to save a handsome young man

Zig: How do you fare Lady Sirena?

Damian: Remember I am here to protect you if you ever need it

Sirena Lauria says to King Zig "I am being accosted by a Sylvan ranger. I need a peace keeper to remove him! Can someone remove him from my presence please?"

Odil Lumiere: hehe

Zig: Ranger, you are upsetting the Lady

Morgoth Dragonash shrugs... "Rangers..."

Zig pulls a straight edge from his boot

Damian says "This is a good time for a new pipe."

Manwell Roux: *stops dancing*

Kami Kaze (kaminari.exonar): Aw, unrequited love, how... nauseating

Zig: Ranger, don’t make me go all "ic" on your arse now

Odil Lumiere: how I love drama, other peoples hehe

Damian: no need for 'ick' Zig. I am leaving her. back to dancing!

Odil Lumiere: so busy listening to all the good deeds. no good deed ever goes unpunished

Sirena Heals a Sylvan Ranger and Gains an Unwanted Admirer

This all happened in the Torgan Empire much to Sirena's chagrin
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First Dancer of The Place Sirena Lauria walks the woods in search of roots and sees a man lying by the foot of a tree. She stops to look at him and sees that he is a Sylvan Ranger. He looks dead. She takes a step back. Then she hears him groan and realizes he is still alive. She mutters "I suppose I must see what is wrong with him, even if he is a Sylvan." She approaches the body and kneels beside it.

Sylvan Ranger Damian (Silverwing Benoir) groans again and says "please help”

Sirena says "I will help you because my God requires me too, but I do you no favor. Tell me what is wrong."

Damian is partially delirious, hears her voice but does not understand her words. He cries out in pain. She quickly checks the man and sees that there is blood beneath his head. She places her hands on his skull and gently runs her hands around his head, feeling for bumps.

Damian feels hands on his head and partially regains consciousness.

Sirena sees his eyes flutter open and she says, "Can you hear me Sylvan?"

Damian says weakly "I am an apprentice Sylvan Ranger. I have had only three lessons in fighting. I came upon a red dragon attacking helpless people and tried to fight it. The people were saved. They ran away while I was fighting the dragon but the dragon was too strong for me and left me for dead."

Sirena says "Pffft, stupid ranger. The only red dragon around here in Inq and he is too old and wise to attack helpless people. You should be more careful. It does not appear that you are burned. All I feel is a bump on the back of your head. I will be back. I need to get some water to wash the blood away."

Damian says, "I don't remember fire. The dragon threw me with it's tail."

Sirena stands and says, "I told you the dragon was wise. He probably knew you were inexperienced and didn't need to waste flame on you." She walks to the pool to fill her mug with water. When she returns she kneels, puts the water on the ground and opens her pouch, pulling out a clean rag and some astringent herbs. She speaks as she gently touches the wound. "I am going to wash the blood off the back of your head. I don’t see anything else wrong with you except foolish pride."

Damian feels the cool water on his face and responds. He feels a bit stronger with the lady's treatments.

Sirena asks "Are you able to sit up or do you need help?"

Damian says "It was not pride m'lady, I could not let those people die. And I don't think I can sit yet."

Sirena snorts and soaks the rag in the water again. She wrings it out and applies it to the back of his neck.

Damian feels his strength slowly returning. He asks "Who are you, kind lady?"

Sirena says "I will help you sit up." She puts her hands under his oxters and drags him out from under the tree root. She maneuvers him to the tree trunk. Damian wobbles to his feet. Sirena puts her hand on his chest and pushes him down. "You need to sit. You need to stay quiet and rest for a day." Damian tries to sit but falls on his face. Sirena looks at him in dismay "Oh for Belenus' sake! Can you not stay upright?" Damian pushes himself up to a sitting position. Sirena looks at him again and says "I suppose it hurts."

Damian says "Yes it hurts and I have no place to stay."

Sirena says "Let me see if I can take some of the pain away." She casts Sea of Flames and restores 10 points of health to him.

Damian relates "I am new to this land and have been sleeping under trees."

Sirena says with a grunt "Trees are good enough for the likes of you."

Sirena is prompted to restore some of his stamina. She casts Flames of Passion and restores 10 points of stamina to him. She casts Blazing Sparks and restores 7 points of health to him.

Damian says "I feel much stronger. What did you do?"

Sirena shrugs "I have learned certain skills from my God."

Damian says "Your god must be great indeed. I feel like new again!"

Sirena says "Well, Sylvan, stay away from these lands and you will not be attacked again. I cannot guarantee that I will be around to help next time."

Damian says "What is your name fair lady. I must thank you."

Sirena responds "My name does not matter, since we will not meet again."

Damian exclaims "But I owe you my life. I must know who you are!" He muses for a moment. “Wait a minute.. haven't I seen you at The Place?"

Sirena exhales "Aye, I work there."

Damian exclaims "Yes I have, you are Sirena the dancer!" Sirena lowers her hood. Damian bows to Sirena. "My name is Damian. I will forever be in your debt m'lady."

Sirena grins to see the man bow to her. "There is no debt. I am commanded by my God to heal, so that is the only reason I did not leave you for dead at that tree root."

Damian says " I saw you dance. The smoke from the hookah was strong but I would not forget such a beauty as you. Please tell me how I can repay my debt to you."

Sirena, having heard such comments before, pays the compliment no mind. She says
"I have told you, no debt exists. I have done what my duty called for. No more, no less."

Damian notes her aloofness and wonders why.

Sirena continues "But if you want to save me or another some trouble, be careful who you engage in battle and where you wander. Do you realize where you are? You are deep in the heart of the Torgan Empire. There have been too many Sylvans ranging these woods and we are getting tired of you acting as if you own The Empire as well as the Sylvan realms. This is not yours to protect. Go guard your Queen. Our Empress needs none of you."

Damian says “M'lady, I was just exploring the woods. Is it just me or do you not like any people? You seem full of disdain yet you saved me."

Sirena curls her lip "I do not like...some people and Sylvan Rangers, especially."

Damian smiles. "Then m'lady I shall make it my quest to change your opinion of at least one of us! It is not right that such a beautiful lady should have such fear in her heart."

Sirena ignores his words and asks "Are you well enough that I may escort you to the border?"

Damian says "I am feeling much better, thank you. Lead on and I will follow. But please avoid red dragons."

Sirena turns and heads for the village. She says “This path leads to three bridges. you will know you are on the right road when you pass by the tavern."

Damian says "Is this the tavern you speak of?"

Sirena says "This is the tavern. The road leads under that pass and to the left. It will take you back to the Sylvan lands."

Damian says "Thank you for saving my life. I owe it to you and dedicate it to you. I can not leave without buying you a drink for your troubles "

Sirena stares incredulously at the Ranger "You are not serious are you? "

Damian whispers hoarsely "I am indeed serious."

Sirena says "You Sylvan Rangers are a strange bunch. I was merely doing my duty."

Damian repeats "Just one drink..and I'll be on my way."

Sirena raises her eyebrow "I do not advise spirits for a concussion."

Empress Lexie (lexie.lukas) appears in a hissing mist.

Damian smiles "I am strong and well now thanks to your powers”

Sirena hears a rustle behind her and turns "Greetings Empress."

Damian nods to the woman who just appeared.

Sirena turns back to the Ranger and says " Well, have your drink, then be off. There are Torgans in the tavern and they might not welcome your presence."

Damian smiles and says "I'll take my chances." Sirena marches into the tavern, wishing the ranger would not follow. Damian notes to himself they can't be worse than the dragon who knocked him out.

Linwe (Linwe Zifanwe) says 'Vedui again S'rena'

Sirena smiles "Vedui Linwe. Greetings Swith!"

Damian says "By your leave m'lady"

Swith (cyneswith.luik) looks over her shoulder. 'Oh.. greetin's miss.'

Sirena whispers "This Sylvan Ranger… I am sorry. He insisted on a drink."

Linwe raises a brow at the unknown person following in the dancer's footsteps.

Damian says “Greetings ladies. This kind woman saved my life. A drink is the least I can offer her."

Sirena takes a seat on the end of a bench next to the minstrel.

Linwe says 'Vedui, stranger...I dunna think I have seen ye before'

Swith rests her head on her hand and snoozes a little, drunk.

Linwe says 'Saved ye from...what?'

Sirena scowls at the Ranger and then says to her friend "This is Damian. I found him lost and unconscious near the crossing to the hive."

Empress Lexie (lexie.lukas): Greetings Torgans, and friends

Damian tells his story again "I came upon a dragon attacking unarmed people and tried to fight it off"

Linwe performs a low curtsy to the Empress "Yer majesty”

Sirena says "Damian, this is Linwe, a great Shaman and Swith, the best minstrel in the realm"

Empress Lexie: What dragon sir?

Damian continues. “I am but an apprentice and could not withstand his power but the people escaped. It was a large red dragon."

Sirena rolls her eyes, not believing the man's story.

Snow (snowblind.infinity): Interesting, would this dragon be one who demands tolls at the bridge?

Linwe says 'I havena heard of any people fleeing dragons this day'

Swith’s chin slips off her hand and she wakes with a start. She looks around, then blinks at the Empress, wavily. 'Greetin's, Empress..' She hiccups. She tries to bow and nearly does a forward roll off the bench, managing to catch hold of the table in time to right herself.

Empress Lexie winks at Snow: Greetings Swith

Linwe says 'Snow..have ye been marauding agin?'

Snow: Not I, I have no need to attack unarmed people, nor do I demand tolls for the passages which are not mine to control.

Empress Lexie: There was this senile dragon earlier but I think he went away to die in the wild.

Sirena snorts "Maybe that is the one Damian here says attacked him." She sees that the man has not had his drink yet and scowls. She will never be rid of him at this rate.

Damian notes "The dragon I saw was not weak and feeble."

Swith goes back to snoozing a little at the table, hiccuping every now and again.

Empress Lexie turns to Snow "who might that be.. a red dragon? Do you know of this one?"

Linwe says 'Tis strange there havena been any reports of such..especially since King Eecho has been back and forth from the Hive all day'

Damian asks "How does one get a drink here?"

Sirena stands up and goes to the bar. She draws a mug of rum for the ranger and brings it back.

Empress Lexie looks to the Ranger: "A good start at being served is the word please"

Sirena slams the mug in front of the man "Here. Drink this and be off."

Damian asks graciously "Please a round of ale for all on me!"

Sirena looks at the man "Serve them yourself. I am not a barmaid"

Linwe wrinkles her nose "Nay thankee”

Swith cheers and knocks a plate on the floor. 'Free ale...'

Damian laughs. Empress Lexie giggles knowing that Swith will indeed enjoy this

Sirena looks at Swith and smiles "Are you sure you want another?"

Swith frowns, 'It's free lass... course I does...'

Sirena chuckles "I am not sure I trust you to stand up. I will get you a refill"

Swith grins, wavering. 'Most kind miss...'

Sirena takes Swith's mug to the barrel and fills it to the brim with rum. She carries it carefully back to Swith and sets it in front of her "There you go Swith."

Swith nods, 'Very kind.. very kind...' She grins at the man opposite, black-toothed, then winks at him drunkenly.

Damian notes that everyone here knows each other and he begins to feel unwelcome.

Sirena looks to see if the man has finished his rum yet

Damian says "I'd best be going fine people"

Swith, a little slow on the uptake, asks the stranger, 'Are yer Sirena's new man?'

Linwe snorts. Sirena says to Swith "My man? You are really drunk Swith. I need no man!"

Damian says "I know not what that means but Sirena saved my life today so I will dedicate mine to hers."

Swith looks between them. 'I's hearin' two conflictin' answers... I thinks...'

Linwe says 'How..gallant'

Sirena throws her hands in the air "You are daft, man! Go dedicate your life to someone else."
.
Damian says 'a pleasant day to all of you' He laughs as he leaves.

Swith gives a wave. Linwe says 'Vendaust' Sirena watches him leave with a sigh of relief and sits down.

Empress Lexie: Lady Sirena, is everything ok with you? Do we need to get you a guard?

Sirena says "I am fine. why do you ask?"

Empress Lexie: That .. Sylvaran.. I just wanted to make sure he isn't hassling you

Sirena says "I need no guard. I have my tongue and my God, but thank you Empress, I will remember your words."

Linwe says 'The women of Torg be a plucky lot, Empress'

Empress Lexie: Yes * her eyes glimmer in happiness*

Sirena says "Will you excuse me? I left my basket in the woods where I found that ranger and must go retrieve it"

Linwe says 'Aye, S'rena..take care'

Sirena says "dark paths"