RP:Good to See You Again
Summary: After the ToW battle of Vexar and Kanna, Mesdoram and his slave, Nariv, make their way back near the Sage Forest. When there, the plan would be to update the preparations for the upcoming playwright to be hosted at Khitti’s Gothic Garden in Cenril.
Mesdoram:: Unbeknownst to the twisted pair, lurking not too far away from them is Magik and Meri. Having a ‘less than pleasant’ interaction with the drow, the two lovebirds appear to have enough with Mesdoram’s antics. Would they tail Nariv and Mesdoram directly from the battle contest? Will they discover useful information from Nariv or simply attempt to free her from her slave status? Perhaps a secret impromptu espionage date night? Or has Mesdoram’s finally insulted the wrong man and woman – planning to rid the devilish drow’s life and sway Nariv to their side.
Mesdoram:: Not many details have been uncovered of the pairing’s slave/master relationship, other than the obvious cruelty Mesdoram inflicts upon Nariv with savage indifference. Little did the inhabitants of Hollow know that the dynamics of Mesdoram and Nariv contain a much more sinister nature than what has been displayed – Should Meri and Magik press their curiosity beyond honorable intentions, no doubt blood will be painting the greenery of the Sage Forest.
Mesdoram :: Leaving the Duel of Vexar and Kanna
Mesdoram:: An angry Mesdoram paces back and forth as he mutters incoherent rage into the air as a silent Nariv sits in solace a mere 10 feet away. Having just watched his brother, Vexar, lose to such an inferior opponent has put this drow into a dangerous fit; gripping his twins elemental dirks in his hand, Mesdoram’s occasionally thrusts into the nothingness around him – perhaps miming stabbing his useless brother for being defeated so easily.
Mesdoram:: “Vexar, you absolute waste of a Quisto…” Mesdoram finally is able to speak clearly. “… What is your angle here? Throwing matches makes no sense…” The younger brother displays rampant disdain for his older brother’s failure to the point of second guessing Vexar’s role in Sin. “You will shape up, or I will end you myself when your sleep.” Though many of the spectators were focused on Kanna’s victory lap, Nariv’ nervously watched Mesdoram’s temper tantrum and hopes no one would be on the receiving end of his air stabs.
Mesdoram picks up Nariv’s anxiety – not out of compassion, but annoyance of her showing weakness. “We leave now, Nariv. Let Vexar pick himself up from this embarrassment.” Without waiting for Nariv to get side by side with him, the drow leaves the Mystic Stream in a huff. Hesitating for just a second, Nariv looks around at everyone and briefly glances over at Meri and Magik… not a long stare, but enough that if eye contact were made, the elven woman would quickly look away anyways. Not saying a word to anyone, Nariv hurries to catch up to her master – assuming they would eventually make way to the Sage Forest where the entrance to the Underdark await them.
Meri :: Unlike Mesdoram, Meri was absolutely elated to see that Kanna beat Vexar. The bard was one of Meri’s clients and during their tattooing session, Meri learned that Kanna had a certain charm to her. Sure, Vexar might be part of the clandestine Syndicate of Shadows, but he was so elusive. Meri has only ever seen him during duels, never a face to face conversation. Mesdoram’s connection to Vexar might have been enough to cause Meri to spare his life once but that may not be a trend that continues. Still, the intention for the night was not first and foremost to try and kill Mesdoram. Meri and Magik had already come to the agreement that they should first try and gather information, especially since the blonde made it known to her other half that she felt Nariv had ample opportunity to just leave Mesdoram for dead in Sage Forest after their fight. What exactly was the relationship between the two? These were details Meri was already trying to gather was she casually observes Mesdoram’s tantrum. The blonde is careful to not overtly stare at the drow during this tantrum, she watches through stolen glances while also utilizing her peripheral vision. When she is not outright looking at them, she is looking at Magik and whispering to him. “Tonight? Or…?” The inquiry was vague enough that even if Nariv and Mesdoram had managed to overhear her hushed words that it would not be immediately clear what she was referring to. After all, who knows what sort of plans the lovers might have made together. Depending on how Magik responds, the Lyastri could have a chance to see Meri’s stealthier side in action. Mesdoram and Nariv would be given plenty of lead time, it is not like the lycan woman would have a hard time tracking them by their scent. Or by the footprints they leave behind in the earth. This lead time also gave Meri and presumably Magik a chance to slip into the comfort of shadows. Yes, Meri is more than aware that Magik could likely summon shadow enough for both of them but she does not need him to. Being part of the rogue’s guild gave her access to a charmed little trinket that was able to consume and hide Meri’s form in darkness all on her own. The woman has her own tricks! Sure, the rules might say that she’s not supposed to share these details even with her future husband but Meri was not keen on keeping such secrets from Magik.When Magik was ready, they would follow.
Magik was careful to not make it obvious that he was watching Mesdoram and Nariv very carefully. In fact, to anyone not familiar with the Lyastri it would look like he was just enjoying a night out with Meri. His replies to her were full of smiles but his words were quiet and dark. As Mesdoram stabbed at nothing but air, he kept up with his grinning while slipping in a comment to Meri quietly, “Looks like someone should learn some deep breathing techniques.” As Meri’s words filled his ear regarding whether they should follow the pair tonight, he started to stand while applauding Kanna’s victory. There was a loud congratulatory whistle and a soft clap followed by another quiet comment for Meri, “Tonight.” The elf drapes his arm around Meri while kissing her cheek, “We’ll take our time getting out of here..” A disgruntled drow and his slave shouldn’t be too hard to track through the forest. Especially ‘his’ forest. That’s right. The Guardian of Sage is coming for you, Mesdoram, and with some help. The quickly forming plan will primarily focus on gathering some intel tonight..maybe. Or, who knows, maybe Mes slips up and finds himself burning from the inside out of his poor little drow body. For now, Magik and Meri will follow at a safe distance.
Mesdoram:: Time is a funny thing – limited for all but ticks infinitely and indifferently; the giver of life and the grimmest of reapers; there for your best of days and the worst of your days… when you think of the time you have been given, will you look back on all the negatives? Or will your nature overwhelm you on your death bed with replays of the atrocious you have committed, seeping in the seeds of doubt for an unpleasant afterlife… when all is said and done with and your bones begin to turn to dust, will you be judged by the thousand acts of kindness you engaged on? Or will the one person you slighted the most have the most compelling and loudest voice that seals your damnation? Can a creature with the reputation of Mesdoram truly ever be a sympathetic victim of circumstance? Will anyone have empathy for this twisted man and his horrible acts of violence? And after he has taken his last breath and looks towards the man or woman to finally end his miserable existence, will Mesdoram finally be redeemable in the eyes of those he has encountered… only time would tell, and this drow is desperately running out of everyone’s most precious commodity – time.
Mesdoram:: (Sage Forest – Near the Underdark’s Entrance and Mesdoram’s/Meri’s last battle)
Mesdoram:: Nariv curiously stares at her master, showing a bit of concern as Mesdoram appears to be lost in thought. The drow seems stoic on the outside but has his scowl fixated on a tree stump created during his bout with Meri. Mesdoram is consumed with thoughts of his playwright and organizing venues and prices with Khitti, the need to secure the proper security for his patrons attending said event, and the humiliating defeat he just witnessed his brother Vexar suffer at the hands of the ghoulish girl, Kanna. These thoughts dwelling in his tiny mind, along with the perpetual thought of his own impending death, fuels the drow’s already unpredictable nature with copious amount of dread and rage… Mesdoram is almost at his breaking point and could snap at any moment.
Mesdoram :: An unsettling energy is being projected from Mesdoram’s body language which Nariv intuitively can sense as she watches Mesdoram spiral down the rabbit hole. Attempting to soothe her master’s demeanor, she walks over to the man and places a comforting hand on Mesdoram’s shoulder. Nariv whispers softly to break the silence. “Mesdoram, we must discuss many things tonight to get ready. Please, you are safe here, and –“
Mesdoram :: Interrupting his slave’s attempt to calm him down, Mesdoram instantaneously unsheathes one of his enchanted dirks and vehemently hurls the blade to his left – the same side Nariv was standing next to him. This sudden assault causes the elven woman to propel herself backwards and evades this seemingly unprovoked attack… but was this assault meant for Nariv? No… Mesdoram’s heightened awareness heard movement roughly 30 meters to his left… like someone trying to sneak up on the pair.
Mesdoram :: Were Magik and Meri following Mesdoram and Nariv? From a certain vantage point, would someone interrupt Nariv’s evasion as another act of cruelty from Mesdoram? Were Meri and Magik even there yet? Or would Mesdoram have to apologize to the unfortunate critter he was about to slaughter – either way, if someone were to watch these actions unfold or were still tracking down the pair, Mesdoram’s impulsive action certainly did enough to give their position away…
Meri :: Stalking Mesdoram was really not that much different than tracking an animal through the forest. Sure, Mesdoram -might- have a higher intelligence level than a deer. Might. It was also highly probable, that much like any wild and aggressive animal, that Mesdoram turn on the couple if they are not careful with their efforts and are discovered. While Meri has gone toe to toe with Mesdoram in the past, she was not eager to rush into a second battle just yet. That would defeat half the purpose of this endeavor. Their primary goal was to try and see what kept Nariv in this situation. Was there some sort of spell that allowed Mesdoram to track her easily? Is that why the elf did not run away from him any chance she had presented? Or was there something more. They would not properly be able to liberate Nariv is Meri lost her temper and rushed into battle. So the blonde leans into years of training as both a rogue and a hunter, the shadows are embraced and keep her form concealed from sight via some sort of enchantment and her steps remain silent as possible.
Meri :: At first their endeavors appear to be successful and they get to see how Nariv and Mesdoram interact when they are alone. The elf woman was comforting the drow that kept her enslaved? Why? Was it out of hope or fear? That if she quenched Mesdoram’s fiery temper that she would be spared violence for the evening? Or was it a case of Stockholm Syndrome? Meri’s mind might be turning over a few different thoughts, but she does not share them with Magik. Not yet. They have not seen enough to really form a solid opinion of what is going on. And if they are not careful? They might not be able to see enough. Mesdoram seems to sense that he is not alone, causing Meri to do her best to remain still, silent, and hidden by shadows. Hopefully Mesdoram will manage to write this off as a moment of paranoia so that Meri and Magik can get back to observing him and Nariv.
Magik :: There's something about creeping along on a normal 'hunt' versus creeping on someone who is able to see in the dark given their breed and homeland. Magik was more than aware of this risk when it comes to following Mesdoram and Nariv. His fiery eyes are basically extinguished to help with the camoflauge. On a normal day Meri might be amazed at his electric blue eyes. Has she even seen his true eye color yet? As they stick to the shadows, Magik makes use of a little trick he learned in a land far away from here. This trick involves the bending and manipulating of shadows to his will. With a slight wave of his hand at his side, he starts making the natural shadows of the world bend and contort to visually hide his very existance. He sticks close to Meri's side, but lets her do her own thing to remain hidden. There might also be some type of backup plan if one of them is caught by the male drow. His movements are slow and careful until Mesdoram reveals his blade once again.
Magik :: There's also something about watching someone treat another living being like an absolute piece of garbage..except for when it comes to orcs. Those really aren't living beings so it's fine. Slavery and abuse, both mental and physical, never sat right with the Lyastri for a few very personal reasons. He doesn't let his emotions get the best of him just yet. No, he's literally a teacher in Xalious. One of his specialties? How to keep calm under pressure with a little bit of focused breathing and the various mental excercises he teaches his students. With the blade exposed, Magik is quick to place his hand on Meri's shoulder. He places a finger to his lips before quickly shifting his focus back to Mesdoram. Honestly, this whole situation could have been over a few moments ago. Why let it continue? Why not? Magik has this thing with getting closure on certain situations. This time, he just wants to understand the dynamic between the drow and elven woman before Magik and Meri make any drastic decisions.
Mesdoram stares blankly as his projectile blade pierces through the soft foundation of the Sage Forest; despite the drow’s natural intuitive nature to sense impending threats, Mesdoram’s tainted nature poorly deciphers the wind rustling some grass as a danger – dangerous enough to fling a blade wildly into the dark. Truth be told, Mesdoram has no clue of being followed or tracked from Vexar’s and Kanna’s duel; with so many twisted and damned thoughts bombarding the chasms of Mesdoram’s mind, the drow’s keen senses of self-awareness has been dulled severely. Magik and Meri could be whispering to one another and, if the sound isn’t above 40-decibels (like someone being loud in a library), Mesdoram cannot concertante long enough to act accordingly to the threat… but there is someone here much more attuned to feel the presence of Magik and Meri – Nariv.
Mesdoram :: The elven woman hears and senses everything from Meri and Magik – from Magik’s hand making contact on Meri’s shoulder to the familiar quiet footsteps of Meri. Nariv’s arcane skills have already pinpointed the couple’s location hidden in the shadows and deciphered their intentions, much to the amusement of this ‘slave.’ Externally, Nariv is displaying her naïve nature as she ‘fearfully’ stares at her master’s attack into the darkness; internally, Nariv is laughing gleefully that Mesdoram’s weapon was flung into the opposite direction of Meri and Magik. Nariv is curious how this interaction will play out – “This could be fun...” She thinks to herself. With that brief thought fleeing from her mind, Nariv resumes her role for the time being.
Mesdoram :: After staring at his embedded weapon for about 20 seconds, Mesdoram loudly groans and starts walking to retrieve his weapon. As the distance between Mesdoram and Nariv increases, Nariv begins to slowly take steps backwards and appears to be shaken and unsure of herself. As Mesdoram bends down to pick up the blade, Nariv breaks the silence. “Mesdoram… please do not do this anymore.” She says in her docile voice.
Mesdoram :: Gripping his weapon firmly, the drow turns dramatically and points the tip of his elemental weapon in Nariv’s direction. “Do not test with me tonight, Nariv!” The drow angrily shouts at the woman. “Your existence in this realm will not end until I have deemed your suffering sufficient!” A seemingly overreaction to Nariv’s meek request. With the boisterous exclamation from her master, Nariv trips over her feet and falls backwards onto the Sage Forest.
Mesdoram :: Seeing her land on her backside puts the drow into another rage fit. “Whatever game you are playing will not save you from me!” Still pointing his weapon at Nariv, Mesdoram begins taking aggressive strides at his slave. With the stakes seemingly on display, it would appear Nariv will receive another beating from Mesdoram. After witnessing Mesdoram previously kicking Nariv to a bloody pulp, will Meri watch the drow release his cruel treatment upon Nariv again? Will Magik’s hatred of the slave business cause a guttural reaction to intervene? Or will they risk Nariv’s safety for a few more minutes for quiet observation? Either way, Mesdoram approaches Nariv with clear malice in his eyes…
Meri :: Were Meri not so preoccupied with Mesdoram, the blonde might have taken notice of the moment that Magik’s eyes shift from that fiery black that she sees most of the time to the rarely seen shade of blue. That is not to say that she is disregarding Magik’s presence completely, far from. She remains close, so that the two of them can work as a team should they end up in a spot of trouble. But her own blue-eyed gaze remains predominantly locked on what is transpiring with Nariv and Mesdoram.
Meri :: It’s no secret to any that know Meri that she has absolutely no love for the drow race. That could be because most are raised to be distrusting of the drow, if not downright fearful of them. Yet in Meri’s case, almost every chance she gives any member of the drow race leads to her being further solidified in the belief that a vast majority live up to their sadistic reputation. Mesdoram has certainly proven himself to be one of those drow, even before that Meri took it upon herself to fight within him the forest several months ago. He was not showing her that he was any different today.
Meri :: Mesdoram flinging his dagger the opposite direction of Meri and Magik does not cause the female lycan to startle. She manages to remain composed, though her temper was starting to get the better of her. It was taking a lot of restraint on Meri’s part to not intercede in the situation that was unfolding. It would not be easily seen to Nariv and Mesdoram, given the measures that Magik and Meri are using to remain stealthy hidden in the shadows, but Magik might be aware of the way that Meri was clenching her right fist together and tightening her drow when Mesdoram retrieves his dagger, this time to seemingly use i on Nariv. It is good that at least one of the two stalkers is big on meditation and is able to keep his own temper in check. The way that Magik places a hand on Meri’s shoulders stills any action that the woman might have been thinking to take. It brings her mind back to the goal at hand, trying to understand if there is some sort of spell or binding that is keeping Nariv with Mesdoram. Why did she not run away? Was her constantly coming back a choice? These were just a few of the questions going through Meri’s mind. Meri looks over her shoulder long enough to offer Magik some nonverbal reassurance that she was good. It’s at this point she notices the blue of his eyes. There is a brief smirk, but the two of them other things to worry about right now.
Meri :: Some might feel guilt as they watch Nariv potentially injured in a fray with her drow master, but Meri has never seen the world in black and white. There are plenty of shades of gray in between. Anger might be an emotion that easily plagues Meri’s mind today, but not guilt. The blonde forces herself to keep her emotions in check by focusing instead on all of the little details of Nariv and Mesdoram.
Magik remained as still as possible through Mesdoram's outbursts. His hand remained on Meri through it all, completely unchanged as well. Observe, Magik. Observe. The dagger being flung in the opposite direction caused one thought to cross Magik's mind. Something about messing up the forest because of this crybaby's outbursts. There better have not been an accidental and pointless kill of an innocent animal in this forest with Magik present. As Mesdoram retrieves the dagger, Magik shifts his focus to Nariv. He studies the elven woman. There were plenty of oppurtunities for her to take Mesdoram out or at least run. At least if she closed a bit of difference between herself and the drow, Magik and Meri could aid in her escape. Her lack of action/proactivity is a little disappointing to the Lyastri. It just adds another 'why?' to Magik and Meri's ever growing list of, well, other 'why?'s.
Magik's hand seems to relax even more so on Meri's shoulder. He mindlessly rubs his thumb in a circle against her, like a mini massage after quickly locking eyes with her. She's good. He's good. Maybe. Was he itching to do something or trying to hint to Meri to remain relaxed? In reality, he slowly and quietly drops his other hand to his side. At first his hand is balled up in a tight fist but starts opening as the drow closes his distance on his elven slave. Mesdoram's threats to Nariv indicated that he wasn't going to put Nariv out of her misery just yet. That was somewhat comforting to hear but incase he lost full control, Magik wasn't going to let Nariv get killed tonight. She just might have to take her beating though. It's all about the bigger picture sometimes. He knows all about that lately. Remember that time he watched as a giant plant monster devoured a whole village and he had no choice but to watch and maybe, perhaps, showed a little bit of mercy on a few villagers who were in the direct path of destruction and decided to end their lives before the monster could? No? Same. He's trying to push that memory deep down.
Magik :: So, for now, the mission stays the same unless Mesdoram takes it one step too far. Watch and learn.
Mesdoram :: Nariv’s eyes lock on to the approaching Mesdoram and continues to feign fear of her ‘master.’ On the surface, the elven woman exudes nativity, weakness, and ineptitude; however, this is far from the true vindictive nature manifesting inside Nariv’s malevolent form. For the common eye, many onlookers would conclude that there is a frighten woman scrambling along the Sage Forest floor retreating from the inevitiable beating from Mesdoram – though, if someone possesses natural arcane abilities with a keenness to telepathy, one could hear the secret conversation playing in Mesdoram’s mind.
Mesdoram :: Below the terrible scowl, Mesdoram subconscious is being subliminally bombarded with a constant loop of precarious messages, brief but powerful flashbacks of Mesdoram’s life before Hollow, and an ever-changing playlist of Nariv’s cynical laughter which changes volume constantly – ranging from a quiet whisper to a magnitude so thunderous Mesdoram cannot hear himself think. This psychological assault overwhelms Mesdoram’s psyche as it often does; this not being the first time Nariv has tortured her master Mesdoram. Master… if only people knew…
Mesdoram :: The sudden escalation from Mesdoram’s behavior certainly can confuse onlookers and would add to Mesdoram’s reputation as an unhinged monster; however, with the few hidden context clues, a person sensitive the arcane arts could at least piece some of the puzzle together. From the moment Mesdoram reacquired his thrown weapon, Nariv’s began her telepathatic tourment of Mesdoram’s wellbeing - prompting the drow’s violent (seemingly out of nowhere) outbursts and sudden bloodlust to kill Nariv. With all this mental anguish being used against Mesdoram, his statement ‘Do not test me tonight, Nariv!’ with the proper context suddenly takes proper form; sadly for the misunderstood drow, Mesdoram’s actions will not be vindicated on this night.
Mesdoram :: Now coming within 3-feet of Nariv, Mesdoram raises both his daggers to deliver a killing blow to forever silent his tormentor. Playing right into the hand of Nariv, she springs her trap to keep up the charade to further her agenda. As Mesdoram begins his downswing, Nariv’s loudly declares “NEVER AGAIN, MESDORAM!!!” Instantly, an arcane blast of silvery magic immediately illuminates the darken Sage Forest; this brilliantly bright magic is harmless to the physical form, though damage is not the intent of Nariv’s spell. Instead, the sheer intensity of the blazing light is extreme enough to blind anyone too close in proximity. Sadly, for Mesdoram, it will be sometime before his eyes are ever useful again. Without delay, Mesdoram’s hands drop his elemental dirks as he collapses to the forest floor; gripping his eyes and writhing in clear pain, the drow curses Nariv. “DAMN YOU NARIV!” An anguished message manages to speak coherently inbetween distraught screaming from Mesdoram.
Mesdoram :: Nariv, still playing to the audience of Meri and Magik, quickly scrambles to her feet and begins running away from Mesdoram. Nariv runs for a solid 30 feet before ‘tripping’ on something… perhaps a root? Maybe a hidden foot of a couple of stalkers? Or some random animal… either way, Nariv has painted the picture she has desired. On the one hand, it clearly looks like a desperate woman has attempted her freedom from the terrible servitude of Mesdoram hoping to run into some good Samaritan savors… but on the other hand, Nariv’s true plans to prolong Mesdoram’s suffering brings a joyous euphoria over the woman’s form. Not wanting to give away to Magik and Meri, Nariv assumes a fetal position after her trip and begins shaking nervously. Projecting the fear of an escaped slave, she stays still and covers her head as the wailings of Mesdoram pierces through the Sage Forest.
Meri’s reaction to this situation would have been entirely different were Magik not present. The little massage that she is given seems to keep the lycan woman’s normally hot temper quenched, as it at least serves as a reminder that she cannot be entirely reckless with her actions. Otherwise, Meri would have been blazing a trail forward toward Mesdoram and Nariv and would have likely ended up nearly as blinded as the drow. Holding her ground right next to Magik allows the woman to take a more collected approach as the scene continues to unfold and Nariv seems to fight back in the form of an agonizingly bright flash of light. To shield her own eyes, Meri quickly turns her back to the scene and hides her face in Magik’s chest. Sorry Magik, Meri’s ability to deflect something like light is very limited based on her current understanding of her psionic abilities. If the threat were a different one, Meri might try and help her love but Magik is left to fend for himself.
Meri :: The blonde wishes that she had more time to assess how Magik fared after that flash of light Nariv made, but Meri is suddenly very concerned that perhaps the spell cast by Mesdoram’s slave might have exposed their position. Trying to think on the fly, Meri retrieves that flask of whiskey that she always keeps on her person, removing the top from it so that she can first take a sip. Then, she splashes some of the flasks contents on herself with Magik receiving a quick whiskey shower shortly after Meri does. Once the two of them smell like they have been spending most of their night out drinking, the flask is pressed into the palm of Magik’s hand. He could hang onto it while the two of them put on a small show. “Act drunk,” Meri manages to communicate to Magik as she loops an arm about his torso and leans into him, like she needed support, so that the two of them could stagger between Mesdoram and Nariv.
Meri :: It was not entirely lost to Meri that there were more direct approaches that the two of them could take. If Mesdoram was blind, they had every chances to whisk Nariv away from him. Yet something was not sitting right with Meri and she was ending up with more ‘why’s than she was answers. Could it be that the psion could hear that internal conversation playing in Mesdoram’s mind? That is a mystery to everyone but Meri.
Meri :: Once Meri and Magik manage to make their way between Mesdoram and Nariv, the blonde speaks. “The two of you’s ain’t out here makin’ trouble in our neck of the woods, are ya?” Her voice was slurred for the show of it all.
Magik was quite content watching this scene unfold. Magik had nothing against the drow as a race given he was taken in by one when he first arrived to these lands. However, his distaste for Mesdoram was the male drow's own doing. You know, the slave thing, and that slave being an elf, as Magikrios is. No bueno. But we know this already. A slight smirk drew across Magik's face as whatever was going on was causing some type of distress to Mesdoram. Watch and learn. However, as Mesdoram quickly approached Nariv, the hand at his side becomes suddenly bloody as it was turned towards the drow. There will be no killing of any women in this forest tonight. Just as Magik is ready to let a little secret loose, Nariv emits her bright light at Mesdoram. There are three thoughts that run through Magik's head at Nariv blinds the drow for a moment. First, "Good for you." Nariv is done taking anymore of Mesdoram's abuse. Second, "I guess I won't be needing this." The yelling between the two would be loud enough to hide the sound of something slicing through the air in the opposite direction and imbedding itself into the base of a tree. Third, "We might have just been seen." Magik's shadow bending was still slightly new to him so he's not entirely sure if that intense light would have penetrated the shadow cover for the couple. With Meri burying her face into his chest, he hides his own eyes by pressing his face into her neck/shoulder. Yikes, Nariv. Good on you, but yikes.
Magik reacts appropriately to Meri's quick thinking. Act drunk. That's easy. But first, Magik had to hide his bloody hand while Meri sprayed them with some whiskey. With the flask in one hand thanks to Meri, his bloody one makes it's way under Meri's shirt to rest on her hip. Nothing to see here, just two drunk lovebirds leaning on each other after celebrating a friend's victory. His form relaxes a bit and starts to 'drunk' walk with Meri towards Mesdoram and Nariv. Meri is the first to speak as they step between the two. His words are slightly slurred as well and his tone is cheerful. He shifts his focus from the drow, to Nariv, then back to Mesdoram, "Oh! Look, my love!" This is where Magik starts to degrade Mesdoram just a little bit. "It's one of those drow folk I've heard about! Curious folk, they are!" He turns his cheek towards Meri's ear. Normally he would speak quieter being in close proximity to her ear, but since he's 'drunk', his words are louder and still slurred. He's doing an awfully good job at acting super romantic right now. What a stud. Time to sweet talk this lycan, "You know, I know a few drow words myself." He wiggles his eyebrows at her before looking to Mesdoram. He makes sure to talk down to Mesdoram just a little bit more, over pronouncing his common words, "HELLO, MISTER DROW-MAN." He looks to Meri and winks, "Prepare to be amazed!" Once more back to Mes. His grip on Meri's hip becomes a little tighter incase of wandering eyes. The Lyastri clears his throat and starts speaking Drowish to Mesdoram. His dialect would reflect that he was taught Drowish by an elder long ago. His 'drunk' demeanor fades as he speaks firmly, locking eyes with Mesdoram, "Ka dos xta'rl natha mildrin lauske pholor ilta karliik, Usstan orn elgg dos xuileb tlu'kel. Nindel zhah natha iglata." Magik stares at Mesdoram for an extended second and then blinks his way back to acting drunk. He presses a kiss to Meri's cheek and smiles, "I told him I wish him good luck and fortune in this life. It's a common greeting with his kind!" That's not what Magik said. At all. Magik then looks back to Mesdoram, his blue eyes flickering back to their normal fiery black, "Right, mister?"
Mesdoram’s pathetic squirming stops once Magik’s threatening words enter his maimed ear – the one Nariv cut off in their last playwright. Words so precise and powerful from Magik… this proclamation from the man strips the last bit of hope inside Mesdoram’s soul. The drow dares not move another inch after Magik’s declaration and elects to cover his eyes with his hands hoping to shield himself from anymore anguish this night. Mesdoram certainly is not your typical drow – sure, his temperament and ruthlessness at times seems to be upto par, but to show such weakness to his enemies… something is off about this presentation. However weird this display of vulnerability, one thing remains certain clear to everyone here: what a waste of a man… or perhaps what a pity of a man.
Mesdoram :: Nariv’s confidence, on the other hand, grows stronger and bolder with every second. Ceasing any other hidden conversations with Mesdoram’s psyche, Nariv quickly stands up once she ‘recognizes’ Meri. Not exactly sudden, the elven slave bows hastily in the direction of Meri and Magik. “No! No trouble! I don’t want to fight you, please!” The ‘desperate’ pleadings of Nariv are rushed almost like she’s out of breath – after all, it was an ‘awful’ and ‘torturous’ existence for the poor elven slave, and her ticket to leave the slave life is ready to be punched… should she play her cards correctly.
Mesdoram :: But she must not drop this façade too quickly… and based on her earlier interactions with the lycan woman, Meri seems to be suspicious of something… maybe not foul play or deception persay, but something in the mosaic that doesn’t lineup properly. From her bowed position, she briefly makes eye contact with Meri before promptly staring towards Magik – Nariv and Magik have not yet met, but from the words spoken from the elven man, Nariv assess Magik really dislikes her master Mesdoram. Nariv slowly steps Magik and Mesdoram… being mindful to not make further eye contact with Meri for the time being.
Mesdoram :: “Please good sir…” Nariv musters up in a meek voice. “Will… will you two take me far away from… from…” Nariv stops… both moving and speaking. Probably 10 feet away, Nariv contemplates her best card to play: should she overplay her hand, Mesdoram’s premature death would put a damper and end Nariv’s fun; oversell the situation, and maybe the jig is up and Nariv makes Mesdoram sympathetic… what a laugh that would be.
Mesdoram :: Nariv looks up to Magik’s eyes: the angle of the moonlight perfectly highlights her ‘SIN’ tattoo sketched on her forehead. “Please sir… will you and your friend take me away from here?” At that request, she looks away from Magik and Meri… awaiting for what is to come next.
Meri :: At first, Meri had felt guilt that she had turned Magik into her elven shield to protect her eyes and yet had not thought of a way to help him shield his own. She’s entirely relieved that she has married such a quick thinker. And one who is definitely a total stud. In the effort of continuing their ruse of being drunk, Meri leans into Magik heavily while they move, especially when he tries to “sweet talk” her. At first Meri is all smirks, an expression that is not actually for show, but her amusement fades to wonder when she hears Magik speaking in another language. Meri and Magik had of course talked about their pasts, yet for some reason Meri had not thought to consider that Magik might have learned the drow language during his time with them. A brow is lifted when Magik gives the blonde lycan a summary of what he just said to Mes, shifting her gaze to the drow groveling before them. “Is that so?” she quips to Magik, hinting that she does not quite believe him. No matter though. Make him fear for his life, Magik. Except, Meri has seen this gambit before and she does not actually believe it to be sincere. He just ends up right back at his bad behavior once he is done begging to be spared.
Meri :: Nariv manages to pull Meri’s attention away from Mesdoram, her every action soon scrutinized by Meri. The blonde would not allow for this suspicion to show outwardly, Meri has had plenty of practice at putting on a guise of niceness. Besides, what if her suspicions that something about Nariv was off were wrong? “Well obviously we cannot leave you here in the forest to fend for yourself. We will take you somewhere safe.” It does cross her mind that perhaps that is where Meri went wrong the last time. Meri left Nariv to fend for herself after the fight between lycan and drow. Admittedly, Meri thought Mesdoram was a total wreck and Meri was in bad shape herself. Making sure Nariv actually escaped had not been at the forefront of Meri’s mind. Bandages were. This analysis had Meri shifting back and forth on her opinion of Nariv. Her gaze move from Nariv and back to Magik, “But where?” She’d let Magik pick. To the treehouse? Could they trust Nariv enough? While waiting to hear Magik’s thoughts, blue eyes are warily transferred back to Mesdoram. She did not trust him and she was not willing to let him catch them off guard with any drow tricks or traps.
Magikrios and Meri may be pretending to be drunk to try and throw Mesdoram and Nariv off but Magik is taking every little detail in at the moment. Those fiery eyes took particular notice to how Mesdoram covered his eyes after the threat/promise. Definitely odd considering how the drow was acting at the duel. Maybe the male drow is only tough against women? That's super tough, Mesdoram. He then leans more into Meri for support, you know, to keep the act up. "I think that's what I said..Yeah, pretty sure." After another drunk kiss to Meri's cheek, he focuses on the incoming Nariv. He watches the elven woman carefully as Meri offers getting her out of the forest. Magik drunkingly nods his head in agreement but then shrugs at Meri's question about where. Definitely not the treehouse. No one questionable even gets a peek at where Magik and Meri may or may not live in Sage near a certain elven camp. No one. Magik puts a finger to Meri's lips then offers a suggestion, "Y'know, I haven't had a brew at Kelay Tavern in quite some time. I still owe that old dwarf a few gold for the last few visits.." Magik gasps, "Wait! He owes me gold for that bet I placed with him about that one dragon they keep in Craughmoyle.." Was his plan to really go to Kelay and tell Mesdoram where they are headed? Not really. Magik was already plotting his course to head north towards Kelay but then east towards Cenril. After that? That is going to be up to Nariv. Stay in Cenril? Take a boat to Rynvale? Or does she prefer the swamps and deserts of the south? The elven man looks from Nariv to Mesdoram, then back to his slave, "What'd ya say? First two rounds are on me!" There would be no rounds at all should she accept Magik's offer. Just misdirection to get her away from Mesdoram. He might slip in a few gold coins to her for whatever she may need, but this Lyastri and his fiancee are going to head back home at some point tonight to discuss what has and what will unfold in the rest of this story, over a glass of wine of course.
Mesdoram scurries to his feet as the newly formed alliance of Meri, Magik, and Nariv stare back at him wondering if retaliation will come. Magik has made it clear with his words and actions that Mesdoram would gladly end the drow’s life should he overstep one more line; and certainly, with their previous encounters, the lycan woman would gladly end all these shenanigans with an arrow between Mesdoram’s eyes. Nariv, on the other hand, would very much like Mesdoram’s suffering to linger for the rest of his worthless life and brought back with CPR or necromancy… and killed again and resuscitate and tortured until he begs for the sweet embrace of death… only to be resurrected and start the ruthless process over and over again – such a punishment will dwarf any eternal damnation routine awaiting the tainted drow in the afterlife.
Mesdoram :: But there will be no more retaliation from Mesdoram on this night. In fact, the drow looks perplexed towards Magik, Meri, and Nariv; something feels… foreign inside the tiny drow’s body, but somehow a bit familiar… normalcy? This sensation of clarity crawls along his skin and calms the previously irate Mesdoram. In a peculiar move, the drow wiggles his fingers and stares at them followed by patting down up and down his body like someone had asked him “You got a lighter I can borrow?” Finally, a moment of realization is expressed on the twisted drow’s face… exhilaration. Mesdoram is temporarily freed and the voices in his head are gone thanks to Meri’s and Magik’s interference with Nariv’s treachery. “Foolish woman…” Mesdoram thinks in his head. “… you have just set me free.”
Mesdoram :: Having no desire to prolong this night any further, Mesdoram points at the three amigos and begins speaking. “Thank you for your contribution, you idiots. You have done much more damage than I could ever accomplish by myself.” Nariv, realizing what is happening, attempts to telepathically bombard Mesdoram with astral subliminal messages to put him back under her control… but to no avail. It was a subtle assault and not a very boisterous or flamboyant attempt – Nariv simply glared into Mesdoram’s eyes to enter his psyche; but little did she know, she had unknowingly released the drow from much of his mental anguish which fortifies Mesdoram’s constitution from foreign attacks.
Mesdoram :: Recognizing Nariv’s unsuccessful strike, the brightest smile now adorns Mesdoram’s face; he now cocks his head sideways and raises his arms as if each wrist had string attached and a puppeteer controlling him. Unbeknownst to Nariv until this very moment, Mesdoram is free… and he taunts the three of them as he mimes being pulled up and down like a marionette. “I used to have strings… but now I’m free… there are no more strings on me.” The horrific sounding cadence escapes the mouth of Mesdoram, sending an uncomfortable sensation down Nariv’s spine – had she been outed completely? Or would Meri and Magik be more confused… or are they just over it at this moment.
Mesdoram :: Either way, Mesdoram utters some parting words before leaving the three of them to fend for the next move. “She is your problem now. Should you grow tired of this snake, feel free to return her during my play… you’ll be getting an invite soon enough.” Mesdoram turns around to walk back to the entrance of the UnderDark and pauses just for a moment… “And you, Magik…” With his back turn to the three of them and free of the hold of Nariv, says one final thought.” … it is truly good to see you again, friend… I thought you had passed long ago…” Not waiting for a response at all, Mesdoram disappears into the night presumably making his decent back to the Underdark.
Meri :: The intention had been to free Nariv from Mesdoram, but is that what Meri and Magik had managed to accomplish? What Meri was witnessing only further fueled the doubts that she was having. Was Mesdoram ….singing….in a very awful voice about being freed from Nariv? Or was it a lie? The woman’s confusion is readily evident, Meri can’t mask the expression. Yet, if Meri and Magik were ever going to manage to get the answers to the mystery they were trying to unravel, then Mesdoram and Nariv would still need to be separated. Meri was not going to pause their efforts to get the two apart, the ruse of drunkenness would continue with the Meri and Magik escorting Nariv wherever it was she felt comfortable traveling to. Kelay tavern. Cenril. Rynvale. It did not matter much to Meri. No doubt once the two managed to return home, they would discuss what they just witnessed. Did they have it all wrong? Should they be watching Nariv and not Mesdoram? Meri did not know, but her general hate for the drow kind probably blinded any conclusion she came to. Maybe her better half would help steer her out of her clouded judgements.
Playing the drunken fiancé or not, Magik watched Mesdoram's moves even more carefully. The Lyastri did not reach to his side during the drow's quick demonstration about being free, but he remained cautious. There was a drunken look to Meri instead with a very subtle twitch of a lower eyelid. A signal perhaps? He then looks to Nariv to study her reactions as Mesdoram went on and on. Magik leans on Meri a little bit more and chuckles under his breath. "What a silly drow, my love. He might be a playwright. Those are a strange bunch.." And then there was the comment of Nariv being their problem now and the play. Magik quickly covers his mouth and mumbles behind his hand, "Oh sh–, he really is a playwright." Those words were probably quiet enough for just Meri to hear if she was listening. What Mes will here in reply is, "Yeah, yeah, yeah. It'll only be our problem if she doesn't buy the second round. It's only fair!" With that, Magik and Meri turn the opposite direction. The elf calls to Nariv as well, "Shall we?" They begin walking back towards civilization but Mesdoram's words catch the Lyastri entirely off guard. Friend? Passed away? Was the drow toying with him or did they know each other way back when? Magik drops the act and turns towards Mesdoram's words, reaching for a dagger at his side, "What the hell did you.." The drow is gone. Magikrios scans the darkness before him quickly, trying to catch even the slightest hint of where a solid heat signature stood. Nothing. He gives it a few more seconds before finally turning back to Meri. He droops an arm around her shoulder and whispers to her, "Now, that, I'm more worried about what he just said.." Eventually the trio make their way out of the forest. Magik gives Nariv more than a few gold for food and a few nights stay at an inn of her choice. There's even a few words of warning to the former slave. Something about avoiding Mesdoram if she can and staying away from any entrance to the Underdark. MerMag, however, would drop the drunkenness as soon as Nariv is out of sight and discuss what just happened and that little comment Mesdoram left before disappearing.