RP:Niawtu Kidnapping 3: Finale

Background

Ranok recaptured Niawtu and brought her to a cove in Cenril. He then surrounded her in a circle of magic dirt, given to Ranok by Uchawiman. After a long while of struggling Gwenilyn is brought along, to heal Niawtu. This is how the two began their sisterhood.

To The Cove

Ranok carries Niawtu into the cove. One of the many little hidey holes that he'd discovered over the time he'd wandered the city. But he wasn't done quite yet. He carries the sleeping, or passed out, Niawtu to the small jetty, where a rowboat bobs in the water. He takes the time to set her down and get out some cloth. A few quick ties and Niawtu would be bound. Just in case. The irony of the situation would not be lost on Ranok, either. In essence, he was kidnapping the girl. But at least he didn't plan to use her for nefarious purposes. The entire point of him carrying her out to the secluded spot was so that the weathering of the retaliation would be easier. And set on his own terms. Into the boat he steps and the rows taken up. The ultimate destination: a small cave on the cliffside that had been worn into the face of the cliff. It was dry, actually rather comfortable, and most importantly, not easy to get to. Ranok rows into the cave he'd selected and beaches the boat. A very set of nasty rows hitting the water forebode anything larger than a rowboat to go in. Swimming out would be among the more unwise choices. Niawtu is picked up and carried in. The cave is not without a few basic amenities. There were a large amount of blankets, ample dried food, and a lantern or two. It was rather comfy, in a secluded way. But it would be boring. However, that wasn't a concern of the man right now. Up into the cave he carries Niawtu, then deposits her down onto the ground gently. A quick rife through her pockets, taking absolutely everything out of them. No risking her escaping via magic item or a hidden knife. He knew where to look, as well, experienced in hiding weapons on the body. Once accomplished and the neat items he found are put in a pile, he returns to the boat and takes out...a jar of dirt. This is spread around without ceremony or hoopla, all around to cave to make a neat circle. The cave wasn't that big, so there was a little bit of the dirt left, and the jar is returned. Ranok then picks up the oars, makes sure that all the things but the blankets were locked away, and gets back into the boat. He won't be long, just an hour. He'd need to fetch a doctor. Those gashes on her leg and arm didn't look too good. He knew just who to find.

Niawtu groans mildly as Ranok does all such things. Mostly, being that the potion of Belph's was so highly addictive it was causing Niawtu to only want more, stirring her lightly from her sleep. Suddenly realizing that she's tied up she growls and tries to wriggle loose, but to no avail. That's when she sees her vial of the potion and tries to scooch towards it. Belph had put the girl under the impression that it was to heal her, though all it did was brainwash her.

Gimme dat. Vat iz dis hennyvays?

Ranok rows back to the cave. Typical Ranok paranoia, or care. Most would just stick her in some basement and call it a day, but he goes and uses an actual cave on the ocean. Back to the hide out he goes. Picking among the sharp rocks that would smash the ship of anyone who didn't know the way or moved carefully he goes, to beach the rowboat again.

Niawtu grasping the vile in her fang-like teeth begins to sit up, not noticing when Ranok and Ago return to the cave. She attempts to open the vile without her hands but it takes her too long to get it open.

Ranok scoops up the vial. "Gimmee dat. Vat iz dis, hennyvays?"

Niawtu growls "Grrrrrrrrr- No! Give me that back! That's medicine, Master makes it for me! Says it heals wounds!" tries to nip at Ranok’s ankles as he moves away.

Ranok inspects the vial, "Yeah, dat's not gunna heppen. Blasted orcs. Dis vole tink hes ended up beink vun gotterdammerung vild goose chase. But, at least de ball iz in my kourt now."

Niawtu begins breathing a little heavily, as though she's preparing a wild banshee scream, and says "Let me go! Master says I need to be home before sunrise! I want to go home, now!" she growls, frost air puffing forth from her mouth.

Ranok settles down onto a rock that juts out, "Screem hall hyu vant. Hyu're not gun hennyvere. He hain't you master." He sounds weary. A constant struggle, it seems. All that effort to recover her and it still doesn't end even when he succeeds. He ached, needed sleep, and a shave, but these feelings were stowed for a later time when he could afford such frivolities.

Niawtu whimpers slightly, as he says such, she was too tired as well to try fighting so instead she growled and lay back down in the sand. Silently, but just audible enough for Ranok to hear, the child begins to sing a song that she had come up with years ago in the slave traders building. She ends her song with a light yawn. It was odd how even though the potion made her so feral to others, that she was still just as sweet of a child once she got sleepy enough.

Ranok has unfortunately brought out that cold, calculating part of himself. He couldn't hold pity; comfort the child that lies on the floor of the cave. Instead he busies himself with preparing a rather dull meal for the girl. Just some dried meats, waters, and some dried fruit and nuts for 'desert', but it would all keep well in the waxed sealing had them stored in. The water came from an enormous water barrel sitting towards the back of the cave. Water trickles down from the rocks, providing an infinite, if slow, supply. He's silent during these tasks and wordlessly slides the offered plate towards Niawtu. He touches nothing himself. As if he didn't need to eat.

Niawtu looks at the food and mumbles "Can't eat with my hands tied..." she then flips over, back turned to the food. "Master gives me more freedom, and tasty raw meat" she mumbles. The potion had brought out a little too much ferality, for Niawtu never would have eaten raw meat before. She then eyes up the dead rat that she had in her bag and starts wriggling towards that for food instead of the nice, and healthier, meal Ranok had given her.

Ranok just grabs the rat and tosses it into the sea. My, what a lovely mood he was in, "Hands." After a moment of confusion, he'd gesture to her bound hands. If she stuck them out for him he'd loosen the bonds. But only a little. She would be able to eat, at least.

Niawtu sticks her hands out to him, thinking he would remove them, unfortunately she finds that he only releases it slightly. Grumbling she goes back to the food and eats in with very much anger within her young eyes. Every so often it would be heard from her a slight mumble or growl, but nothing audible enough to be understood.

Ranok speaks tiredly, "Hy've seen more fierce volves den hyu, Nia. Trust me. Growl hall hyu like. Hy'll find a vay to restore hyu back to normal soon, Hy promise."

Niawtu huffs and mumbles "Maybe I'd be nicer if you gave me back my medicine.... Meanie..."

Ranok waves the vial, "Vatever dis iz, it hain't medicine. Dis schtays vith me. Eat und go to schleep." Unbeknownst to the girl, the water was laced with a sleeping potion. It would knock her out for a few hours. It made things simple and would allow him to head back out to poke around. The secluded place and the dirt would prevent unwanted 'visitors' from coming in, but he'd make his trips short and work through a series of runners.

Niawtu glares at Ranok, about ready to pounce just to get even a sip of the addictive potion that he held. However her binds would not possibly make that so simple. Niawtu takes a drink of water, this water being much more flavorful than the stale water the orc had given her. "What makes you think I want to go to sleep?" she growls... However a few minutes later, due to lack of sleep and the hectic week she's experienced, she dozes off in the sand. Being the type that sleep talks, and has profusely bad dreams, however, she squirms about in her dreams mumbling on and off. Many of the words were such as ogres, cellar, shaman, and ouch. It would not be an entire story of what had happened to her, but her dreams seemed to review her day in one fell swoop.

Ranok now finally allows himself to actually treat the child like one. There was no guile in deep sleep. He would fetch a blanket to cover her and set out more food in sealed containers, within easy reach. Anything else was stowed away in locked chests. There would be comfort, but no escape. Ranok looks sad of all things, as he takes but a moment to brush Niawtu's hair back to get a look at her face. Perhaps to remind himself of why he struggled so hard to recover the child. Or maybe some memory rings from his past. Only he knows. The moment breaks and he gets up, taking the oars from the boat and pushing off to return back to Cenril proper.

Hy’ve brought zum friends for hyu

Ranok leads Ganjimu and Gwen to the cove on the coast of Cenril. On the way through the city, he fills Gwenilyn in on what happened. How Niawtu was kidnapped by an Orc, how he was defeated protecting her, how he and a group of others, Ganjimu included, tracked her down to Gualon only to have her and an Orc Shaman teleport away before they could get to her, and finally, how she showed up in front of the Kelay Tavern acting strangely and chaperoned by a flying goblin. He had basically kidnapped the girl back and immediately headed into Cenril to lose any tails and taken her down to a cave on the cliff face of Cenril. He leads the small group to a jetty, with a rowboat and bids them both to get in. The oars are taken up and he begins rowing to the secluded beach. "She's got a nasty kut or tvo, und a lot uf bruisink. Hy'm pretty sure she's been brainvashed, but Hy neidder know how nor how to break it. Hy'm hopink a healer vould hef betta luck, but my only option if hyu kan' iz to brainvash her back. Und dat hes bad konseqvences." Ranok wasn't exactly in pert shape, either. He had a nasty diagonal cut across his face and his face was swollen from a broken nose. He hadn't shaved in days and he was looking just the slightest bit haggard from a lack of sleep. He was running solely on willpower and determination. He explains why Ganjimu was there, as well, "Hy kan' vatch her de vole time. Dat orc vill surely kome back. De kaff iz secluded und kounter measures are up...but he'll kome for her. Hy'm sure uf it. No vun kan teleport in or out." Some dirt supplied by the voodoo man Uchawiman ensured that, "Gettink dere iz herd, too." Sharp rocks and a fierce crosswind battered any swimmers or fliers that ventured forth, making it a dangerous proposition to get close to the cave without excessive care, "But he'll kome. Hy know it. It's how dese tinks vork."

Gwenilyn listens to all Ranok tells her in growing concern, not where the orc is concerned, for she has faith in Ranok and the other one to see to their safety. Her concern is for the child. The fae has never before attempted to restore someone's mind from the effect of brainwashing, and this gives her pause. Still, a thought or two occurs to her and she nods absently. When they reach the rowboat, Gwen climbs in quickly, wings furled tightly against her back to keep them safe. Her ever-present satchel is with her, tucked securely underneath her legs as she sits. A momentary thought to offer to aid in the rowing is quickly dismissed, as the diminutive woman would only appear laughable struggling with oars. Her strength lies in magic and an innate sense of wellness, not brute force. Gwen would have liked to heal Ranok first, but decides against it, instinctively knowing she will need all of her prowess and energy to aid this unfortunate child

Ganjimu is very uncharacteristic tonight. It's not the outfit: he's getting used to looking slightly ridiculous. It's the silence. The fact that barely a word has been uttered since they entered Cenril is pretty solid proof that he's concerned. On the boat, he offers to row, but isn't given the option. All he has to do is guard the little girl who has had some brainwashing done with blood magic and orc rituals. No big deal. Right? His hand moves to the weapon on his belt as he sits quietly.

Ranok weaves the boat among the rocks and beaches the boat on the sand that leads into the cave. Niawtu had been tied up for her own safety and to prevent an escape attempt, but had been left food and water. The fight in front of the tavern had held him up, though it was rather important that he witness it. "Nia, Hy've brought zum friends for hyu."

Niawtu looks up at Ranok with, by far, the darkest and most hate filled scowl any child could ever muster! The potion had its hold upon her as strongly as ever, even when one would get near to her you could feel the blood magik pulsing forth from the child. Her usually bright silver eyes had grown quite dim and the addictively of the potion had caused her eyes to grow dark rings under them from stress. Her arms, were one to notice, had bite marks riddled over them. Some were deep and bleeding while others were simply red and puffy. The child simply growls and turns her back towards the group. Her icy, yet crystalline voice rang through the cave accompanied by growling under the words, "I don't need any 'friends' I just want my medicine and I want to go home -now-! You tried to kill Imalu for no reason and then you kidnapped me, when Master Belphesius takes good care of me! I hate you!" she ends as one final growls rips through the air within the small cave. Whether she truly felt that why deep in her soul or not was unreadable, but it was said. If one were to look around the cave the sand looked thrashed about (a lot of it in Niawtu's wounds), and the food that was left for her appeared to have been thrown in a rage, as much of it was strewn across the cave. Even Niawtu's hair was mussed up from her outburst, and her tail had an unusual crick in it as though between the previous day and now it had been broken.

Ranok sighs as he half turns to Gwen, "Hyu begin to see de schtart uf dis problem. Hyu kan try to reason vith her, but Hy don' know how effectiff it vill be."

Gwenilyn follows Ranok into the cave to be confronted by a rage and drug-filled child. Gwen's heart is full of foreboding and dread as she listens to and observes the little one's words and actions. None of this shows on the healer fae's features, however. She had already donned the imperturbable, serene façade of a master healer. Only kindness and gentleness radiates from Gwen as she steps near Niawtu. Gwen sets her satchel down and draws near the child. Speaking softly, in sharp contrast to the child's ranting, Gwen murmurs, 'Hush child, be at ease. No one will hurt you, I promise. I am here merely to see to your wounds. I am persuaded they must hurt something terrible.' The waves of blood magic assault Gwen's sensitive nature as she draws nearer, but she sternly holds the noxious stuff at bay. The auburn-crowned fae smiles softly, in hopes of lulling Niawtu even just a bit. Gwen sinks to the cave floor, closes her eyes, takes a deep breath and of all things, begins ot sing. The melody is sweet and known to be soothing to the ear and heart. With just the tiniest thread of her magic Gwen infuses healing and a sense of well-being into every note. For now, that is all the fae will do in the hopes that at least a small measure of calm will fill Niawtu, making it easier to tend to her hurts. The brainwashing will have to wait.

Ganjimu has dealt with tempers before. He's dealt with lycans before. Ganjimu's dealt with lycan temper tantrums before. Dealing with a blood-frenzied, brainwashed lycan temper.. that's new. Of course he'll experiment once Gwen works her magic. For now, however, the elf takes to examining the surroundings. Ranok was right, it would take someone of impressive skill to sneak in without being seen. The ravings make it noisy enough to be silent, though. Something to remember. One boat. Adequate provisions. It seems the elf gauged the warrior correctly, from their brief alliances. Still, orcs are new to the elf, so it's best to be on guard as often as possible. At this realization, a look of extreme sorrow creases the lines of Ganji's face as one, two..five flasks in total appear from various folds in his outfit and vanish into the waters outside. Safe from current, but well out of sight, just in case of temptation. If all else fails, the girl could use a sleep aid every now and again.

Ranok leaves Gwen to her work. Perhaps he could not bear to look at the child he had struggled to save for days on end in the way he was. Perhaps he was simply using his time wisely. Instead, he shows Ganjimu where the provisions are in the cave. A locked chest, full of dried foods. Nuts, jerkies, fruits. All the basic needs put into neat wax seals. They'd keep for a while, even in the sea air. A barrel of fresh water in the back of the cave with a spout out of the rocks where rainwater trickles down from run off. A slow, but constant source of additional fresh water. Blankets, lanterns. But no weapons. Those are the only thing the cave is missing. For obvious reasons, of course. The floor is sandy towards the front of the cave and rocky towards the back, providing a level surface and a good place to sleep. It was, in essence, the perfect little hide out for smugglers to wait while the police passed them by. "Hy chust need hyu to keep an eye out durink zum uf de hours uf de day so Hy kan see if Hy kan get dis vial checked out." The 'medicine' that Niawtu so craved. The last vial she had on her person that he managed to take before it was imbibed. "Hy presume dis iz vat iz de root uf our problems, in my hend."

Niawtu growls as Gwen starts to sing, she was in no mood for anyone to be singing to her, and she -certainly- was not happy that she came so close. Niawtu growls and nips at Gwen as she lightly heals her, however being that her feet are bound she tips over into the sand. She was, however, happy that her wounds were slowly feeling better, but she was so irritated that she couldn't have her "medicine" that she acted like she didn't care. Carefully, she pushes herself back up, causing her fresh and older wounds to bleed slightly. She then glares, again, towards Ranok and Ganjimu, wishing very much that she wasn't bound so she could make an attempt to attack them. "I wouldn't need no stupid healer if you would just give me back my medicine! Master says it heals wounds good, and that I should take it every week! You make Niawtu break promises to master!" she growls as she wipes the sand out of her eye. Now that her face was turned towards the others it would now be noticeable to Gwen and Gan that she didn't talk with her mouth. While her mouth still released growls and all forms of wolf speech the common words simply seemed to flow forth from her mind. Truth be told, she could always speak through only her mind, but she simply chose not to. She then spits the sand out of her mouth, the saliva and sand landing a distance away as a mixture of ice, and frost.

Gwenilyn:: The only thing in Gwen's world for now is the lycan child and herself. For Gwen's part, they might be alone here for all the notice she takes of the males. The fae's song begins to deepen. Within the notes of the wordless song bloom Gwen's own knowledge of lupine language, for Gwen's earliest and best companion has always been Mara, her gray wolf, Gwen, the Alpha female. The tone, though soft, has deep command to it, the power of the Alpha, and as such may not be denied. The Master Healer infuses her song with not only health, serenity and calm but also obedience. For now, calm is what is needed and calm is what the healer will have as her magic strengthens and the telltale rainbow hues of her peculiar brand of magic make themselves seen. Without a measure of calm, even superficial healing will be for naught as the child will merely reinjure herself. Gwen's eyes open now, luminous with power and she smiles, the song never stopping.

Ganjimu stands with Ranok, looking at the vial in his hands. The raving from the cave falls on distracted ears, and it shows by his responses. "That's great, honey. An excellent kick. Now, Ranok, what is this stuff?" It either causes the anger, or strengthens the magic inside, that's a certainty. But to cause such a dramatic change in a child so quickly.. that's not a poison known to him. "I only know a few poisons here and there. This.. is something else, entirely. Ket would know, but damn it all if she's off in Rynvale right now." There,s a bitter memory. Best to hide it. More shouts, countered the same way. "Yup. You're doing great, missy. Keep up the good work!" The elf has weathered a number of storms like this one, it seems. It'll be interesting to see a conversation between the two. "I'll take first watch, though. See what you can figure out about that stuff. I don't recommend testing it, though. You've already got a bit of a mouth on ya." Even in times of trouble, stupid comments just erupt from this guy's mouth. How has he not been killed?

Ranok hadn't even popped the top off the stuff, "It's addictiff. Dat's hall Hy know. Dere are a fev pipple dat might be able to giff zum kind uf inklink. Maybe de Voodoo Man. If hennyone...dat or a chemist. Und dat means Preklek. Hy tink Hy'll try de Voodoo Man first." The outbursts from Niawtu were equally ignored. Not like he could do anything to help Gwen. "To kall it a poison might be radder accurate. It's kertainly hermink de child."

Niawtu shakes her head as she tries to get Gwen's voice away. Had she grown up with her family in a time so long ago, rather than have her family torn apart, the child would have been the one to be polished into being a fine and strong Alpha. Such being seen in her powerful will-power. However, even under the spell her lupine instincts broke through and told her to listen to the voice of an Alpha who was an adult. Suddenly she stops spouting out the comments and growls and simply sits, in a kneeling kind of sitting position, Her ears drooping down as she listens to the alpha voice in her ears. All other surroundings mute to her.

Gwenilyn feels the child's acquiescence as well as sees the appropriate posture and this pleases her. To her song, Gwen adds a touch of approval for Nia's response. The child now calm, poses no threat to Gwen, at least, though she is not certain the same could be said for the males in attendance. The fae moves nearer still until she is directly in front of the child. Gwen takes strands of her magic and interweaves them in the notes of her song, strengthening the calming and healing aspects as well as making it self-renewing. In other words it will continue to hold sway over the child's behavior until Gwen releases it. This done, Gwen first whispers to the two men, 'Do not come near. My influence is contingent on no interruptions. Keep watch and wait.' Assuming she will be obeyed, the master healer sinks into a deep trance in order to discover a way to aid Nia without harming the child's essential self.

Ganjimu scratches his head at the vial. Two grown men should not be so worried about a tiny vial. It's nearly ridiculous. It's potent enough to override the comical scene, however. "Not sure what the voodoo man is, but the Preklek are usually a good bet on poisons. Rather stingy with information, though. You have any contacts?" The question is graced by a wonderful surprise: silence. The sounds of waves, of birds, finally come into focus. A sense of nostalgia overcome the former sailor, but no one will see much change beyond relaxation. "Anyway, you need to see people. That's fair. How do you plan to move when you get back to mainland? People know you have the girl. You're also not exactly incognito when you move. I'll stay here as long as necessary. I have enough ale to keep me awake and happy for at least a few days, plus a good knowledge of knots, if our little friend keeps trying to hurt herself. Don't be surprised to find a mummy when you get back. She won't die on my watch, and nothing short of high tide will take her out of this cove." He turns seaward, eye scanning the waves, the far shore, anything in his vision. "A nap might be your best first move, though. We have a moment's rest, and I doubt you've slept since last we spoke." There's that concern again.

Imalu, now nothing more (in appearance) flies at a moderate speed in a south-westerly fashion. As he moves he quietly mumbles to himself over and over "I hope girl get goot woopin when she back with Belphesius... She deserve it after he smack me for her disappearance! Maybe goblin bit her, too... She deserve it for givin me name what meaning 'little monster'!" soon he approaches the beach shore of cenril... It appears to be a nice enough day out for the sea. "Me think they in de North... But me not fly so goot in that place... Maybe just wait here... But then he might kill goblin for not fetching back dog girl..."

Ranok tightens his grip around the vial slightly, "Hy hef a fev. But a netvork uf pipple like doze fellows hyu hed Hy do not. Hy vill avoeed usink de Preklek if possible. Hy don' trust dem. Hy'm surprised hennyone trusts dem. Hy only bought dat toxin from vun because Hy didn' hef time to find hennyone else." The answer was no, he hadn't gotten any sleep since...who knows when. Ranok doesn't seem 'I need sleep' tired, though, in a strange way. It was more of a ragged thing, like an engine that needs maintenance. It does begin to show. Not that he'd admit any of it, however, "Do hyu hef henny means uf sinkink schips dat attempt to lund? De rocks und vaves are useful, but gettink trown into de vater iz a surefire vay to schtop hennyone from komink to schore viddout eksheustink demselves. Or dyink. Dat orc especially."

Gwenilyn's Preparations

The fae can be found kneeling, then sitting back on her feet beneath the shade of the Druid’s Tree. Dressed this day is the simplest of blouses and skirts, both white, Gwen seems remote and serene. Her hair is unbound and flows to the top of her hips in waves. Her creamy skin is kissed by the dappled sunlight that filters down from above. Hands lie palm up on her lap, as if in supplication. Before her on a pure white cloth lie a ritual candle, snuffer, a crystal bowl and ritual knife. A small pitcher stands next to these items and directly by the Gwen’s side, the satchel she is almost never without. A damp towel lies discarded to one side, evidence of the fae’s earlier ritual bathing. Gwen’s lips move in quiet prayer of some sort, the words, indistinguishable. The overall scene is one of serenity and devotion. Power shimmers lightly around Gwen’s lithe form. The longer the diminutive woman prays, the more luminous her features become. From her upturned hands spring rainbow-hued orbs, small yet potent. For the nonce, they hover there, dancing and slowly spinning on unseen axis just above her skin. From Gwen’s lips springs forth a melody of surpassing sweetness. If any were to hear, they would find themselves smiling softly and feeling young and vitally alive. A portion of the fae’s magic resides in her music, and is as essential to her heart and soul as her healing talents. The peaceful glade falls into stillness as Gwen’s song builds. Her song runs its course and falls away, leaving in its wake an ease of spirit Gwen has not felt in some time. With a quiet sigh, Gwen releases the rainbow orbs to float upward, expanding ever more fully until they cover the glade with prismatic color. Her eyes track the orbs’ ascent and when they reach the zenith, Gwen snaps her finger. Showers of kaleidoscopic dust float down to cover the glade and all inhabitants. It would seem that what Gwen has done is merely idle child’s play, but such is not the case. In these actions lie the purest of intent. Gwen seeks purification and permission, so that she might aid one who is in sore need. Moments pass as she sits there and the dust floats. Finally, Gwen rises from her knees to stand in front of the Eternal Tree in the position of suppliant. Only if one were extremely keen of hearing would one hear Gwen as she whispers, ‘Mother of all, hear your daughter. Mother of all, be with me in this time of need. Mother of all, aid your child in this which I seek to do. Mother of all, know that what I ask and seek to do is not for myself but for another whose need is paramount. Thank you, my Mother. Blessed be.’ The Druidess falls silent, arms outstretched toward the Tree. Gwen lowers her arms, a beatific smile suffusing her features. She falls to her knees and prostrates herself for a moment. Gwen rises gracefully and returns to the items on the cloth. She picks up the pitcher, moves ot the edge of the water and fills the pitcher. With quickened steps she returns and once again kneels in front of the “altar”.

Gwenilyn reaches into her satchel and withdraws two empty phials which she places next to the other items. She then retrieves a tiny pouch which contains a precious hair….one of Niawtu’s own which Gwen found had clung to her clothing last night. Gwen reaches up, pulls out a strand of her own hair and twines the two together. With reverence, the woman places the entwined hairs in the crystal bowl. Gwen takes the candle in hand, whispers to the air and a flame leaps to life on the wick. She sets the candle back into its holder and takes up the ritual knife. A silent prayer is offered. Gwen takes the knife and makes a quick shallow cut across her palm. Ruby fluid wells from the cut. Gwen moves her hand over the crystal bowl, letting her life’s blood drip over the hairs until the bottom of the bowl is naught but red. Still holding her hand over the bowl, Gwen reaches for the pitcher of water from the Eternal Tree and pours its contents over her hand and into the bowl. This done, Gwen puts down the pitcher, now empty, finds a strip of cloth and quickly binds her wound, knowing it will heal quickly and well. Pixie dust dances and shimmers throughout the glade. Gwen holds out her other hand, palm upward as a swirl of dust settles into her hand. Gwen begins a new song now, deeper than before, more firmly grounded in the Earth’s own magic. As she sings now, one can feel the glade begin to pulse, like the beat of a giant heart in time with Gwen’s music. The fae’s healing magic springs forth, bright pinwheels of health and healing, to spiral up and then down to the rim of the bowl. Gwen sprinkles her dust into the bowl, simultaneously sending her magic there as well. There is a silent concussion and brilliant flare of white light from the depths of the bowl. When the light fades, Gwen reaches out and clasps the bowl between her hands. Inside, there lies liquid the color of roses, faintly glowing with an eldritch light. The fae smiles like the sunrise and lifts both face and bowl heavenward in thanks. Quickly now, Gwen lowers the bowl to the cloth. The fae finds a tiny spoon in a pouch in her satchel. With the spoon she carefully ladles the precious liquid into first one phial, then the other and stoppers them carefully. A drop or two remain to be taken to the pool and dispersed into the sanctified depths of the Druid’s Tree. Tired now, Gwen moves to her things, purifies the knife in the flame of the candle, then sheathes it to be placed back in her satchel. The candle is snuffed out, bowl reverently dried and wrapped in silk. Towel and cloth are folded and stored. Everything disappears into the depths of Gwen’s satchel. Her work done for now, Gwen sinks to the grass to lie there for a short time, eyes closed, head pillowed in her arms. To look at her, one would think her a small child, napping after an afternoon of play.

Healing A Child

Ranok rows the boat back into the cave, carrying Gwen in it with him. He's finally removed the armor he normally wears, the armament tucked away somewhere safe. Probably a safehouse in Cenril somewhere, since it was dangerous to be on open water with the stuff on. Among the rocks he picks, to beach the rowboat onto the sandy shore of the cave entrance. Gwen is offered a hand out of the boat and into the cave proper.

Niawtu looks toward Ranok and Gwen as they enter the cave area. Something about her seemed more off than usual. Her usually fluffy hair was limp, her ears were pulled down, and her usually pale yet olive colored skin was pallid and grey, the dark circles under her eyes deepened. The brainwashing potion had been only a test by Belphesius, and it could be seen with these sick-like side effects. The potion wouldn't kill her, but the addiction to the concoction was very hard on her small body. No words of anger or hate were spoken, she merely coughed lightly and attempted to maintain a scowl on her face towards them. Despite the fact that she had only had one dose, the potion seemed to have already have been able to cause withdrawl effects upon her. Then she finally mananges to get out, though very quietly, "I want to go home...." she sounded very near tears as her voice flowed forth from her body. However, this time it didn't seem like she meant the orc's hideout. Perhaps the potion was wearing off? But who could say?

Gwenilyn accepts Ranok's hand and steps out onto the sand before the cave. The sight of the child which greets her nearly brings tears to the fae's eyes. But tears will not help here and so she wills them away firmly. The mantle of Druidess/Master Healer weighs lightly on her shoulders, and Gwen steps with swift and sure footing to settle to the floor directly in front of the young Lycan. An aura of power and potency emanates from the fae. Whatever has occurred earlier today has obviously strengthened her for the task at hand. Opening her satchel, Gwen removes a flask and a clean cloth which she liberally wets. Before touching the girl, Gwen smiles softly. The words which Gwen speaks can be easily understood by the massive smith, but are directed to Nia, the power of the Alpha in every nuance. 'Nia, I have come to help you feel better. To feel as you used to feel, happy and carefree, free to chase butterflies if you wish, or lie in the cool meadow on a summer's day. These are the things which should delight you, little one. And this is what I am here to help you find once more. You and I both know that in this form of speech no lie can be uttered so what I say to you is true. Be at ease, for now I will only clean you up a bit….' And so Gwen lays the groundwork of trust upon which they must all build. The moistened cloth is applied with utmost care and gentleness to Nia's face, arms, wherever there is an abrasion in an effort to ease the child's discomfort.

Niawtu growls lightly, both in pain and disagreement to Gwen's words about being a care free girl again. A slight laugh is issued forth weakly from the child's mouth before she speaks, "Care free? My life hasn't been such since I was five! My mother, father, and twin brother... Dead, every one of them. And just to get a white lycan for the slave market... It's all my fault that there gone..." she growls. Her words were harsh in sound, but the harshness was aimed towards herself. Her voice did sound like the potion was wearing off, but there was still plenty within her. "You shouldn't have taken away that stuff the orc gave me." she growls eyes facing Ranok. "It... It made me forget... I forgot everything... I still forget most things.... But now I remember -that-... I apologize for being so rude these past days... I can't remember who either of you may be... But when I did all that stuff yesterday... When I threw the food about, bit myself, broke my tail.... And when I said I hate you... I never meant it... I think... I think that deep inside it was that I was punishing myself, hating myself, for their deaths... Even when I said I want to go home... I mean I want to go to where I was born... I miss the ice and snow... But, I don't know why I'm telling either of you about this... For all I know, right now, you're strangers... But... maybe it's because you remind me of my father... You're even the same height he was..." the child finishes up weakly. A light blush pushes its way through the grey skin, embarrassed for telling them a story she had never spoken to anyone before. But it was all true, whether she was under the potion or not, it was her life, and her reason of why she had turned to distrust and ferality.

Gwenilyn listens quietly, her features serene, as Nia pours out her life to them both. Inside however, Gwen bleeds for this child. Sapphire orbs hold compassion, understanding and a gentle love as they seek to hold Niawtu's gaze. Once the child has subsided, Gwen returns to the task of cleansing and healing the small hurts, leaving the larger ones for later. The fae smiles softly as she works and murmurs, 'I had forgotten that we did not really introduce ourselves…. My name is Gwenilyn. But truthfully, I'd much rather be called Gwen.' She offers the girl a wink before continuing. 'I like to make things better. Have ever since I was a wee bairn. Tell me, I know your name is Niawtu, but I have no idea what your favorite color is, or if you like chocolate or if you are allergic to roses……' Gwen keeps up this mindless, easy chatter while she cleans and heals. Deft hands move to the girl's obviously broken tail. The fae takes a moment lean over and blow her breath over the broken area. Nia will feel a tingling sensation, hear a tiny pop! and the tail will be healed. Once the small hurts are healed, Gwen reaches into her satchel, brings for a flask and offers it to Nia to drink. 'Tis merely fresh spring water drawn from a place that is sacred to me. I promise, it will only quench your thirst, nothing more.' Gwen waits for Nia to drink should she so choose, then stills herself to listen to whatever the child might, and more importantly might not~, say. Her gaze never wavers, neither should it cause any discomfort or unease.

Niawtu sniffs at the water and weakly clasps it in her hand. Her color slightly coming back to her, due to the healing. Her dull eyes have a slight sparkle as Gwen speaks of favorite colors and flowers. "No one's ever asked me that before..." she smiles just slightly so "I like the color of purple quartz stones, I don't know what chocolates are though... And my most favorite flowers are lunar flowers and frost roses! I also love willow trees, it's like Great Mother is reaching down to give you a hug, or to simply pat your head!" the ailed child says, this being the most positive thing she's said these few days. Once the child finishes speaking she takes a small drink of the water. "Also I like raven's, they're my spirit friend!" she pipes in. Clearly the words of Great Mother and 'spirit friend' must have been things taught to her in her short life among her pack family.

Gwenilyn :: As Niawtu speaks and color comes back to her pallid cheeks, Gwen's smile deepens more and more. She thinks ot herself, [Ah, good, little one. That's the way…..] To draw the child out further, Gwen murmurs, 'Purple is my favorite too. Though I love roses, I really prefer lavender. It's purple too, you know. And so soothing to the smell, it brings me a smile whenever I catch a whiff.' The fae actually giggles a bit before continuing. 'Ravens are really wonderful friends. I've known one or two in my time. But Ghost, my owl, is the best for a good old conversation.' Gwen's grins softens into an almost reverent smile as she speaks of the Mother. 'Child, the Great Mother, or Earth Mother, or Mother of All, however you like to call her, watches over us all and cares for us as she does all Her children. It is She who guides us and She who carries us, even when we feel most alone. I like to think it is She who sent me to you so that we could become friends and help one another.' As Gwen has been speaking, a soft glow has been growing, reaching out to the furthest recesses of the cave to fill the dark with warm, life-giving light. Soon, both Druid fae and Lycan girl are bathed in the purest of energies, a magic to set the heart at ease and the soul for singing. Gwen slides close now to Nia and ever so gently places an arm about the child's shoulders, to guide her into a gentle hug, should Nia allow it.

Ranok wasn't watching the on goings, but he was listening. His entire body had been tense, these last few days. Just slightly, he relaxes. Perhaps the end of this particular struggle was not so far. Though, the ultimate goal would be to eliminate any risk of this kidnapping ever happening again. That meant finding the orc that took her, or the orc that felt he owned Nia.

Niawtu leans her head against Gwen's shoulder during as a way of hugging, being that her arms were bound. She was feeling better, and with her wounds being healed more the color simply started to pour back into her features, but her eyes were still a dingy grey. She was healed outside, but on the inside it appeared that she was still controlled.

Gwenilyn :: With Nia's head against Gwen's shoulder for a moment, the fae takes the opportunity to stroke the child's hair, finger-combing it a bit in an effort to get it out of Nia's face, so it would not be bothersome and itchy. Hideous thing to feel itchy and not be able to do something about it….. Gwen begins to sing, as she did the evening previous, though the melody is a bit different this time. Whereas her song was meant only to soothe and offer comfort last night, tonight Gwen's music holds much more. Strength and courage, health and well-being, trust earned and trust given. All these things and more are woven into the night air about the two. Ranok is not forgotten in all this. Rather, Gwen's music includes him as well, offering what she can to the large protector, be it strength or whatever his need might be. Gwen shifts slightly and pulls Nia upright once again. Though perhaps it is unwise, Gwen quietly loosens the bonds at the girl's arms slightly. The fae slips into lupine speech completely and unless Ranok knows the language, he will not understand. 'Nia, Please look at me, little one. I must tell you things and you need to hear me and understand.' Gwen's eyes take on the glow of a wolf's in the moonlight as she speaks. 'Nia, what the male gave you is bad. I can feel it in here.' She solemnly points to first her temple, then to her heart. 'It makes you feel the way you do, a way that is not really you.' Gwen pauses and reaches for her satchel. The fae removes a tiny phial containing a rosy liquid, and holds it in the flat of her hand for the child to see. The phial glows ever so slightly, warm and friendly. 'I think I have found a way to help you feel yourself again. But you must trust me. Do you think you can do that, dear one?' There is no guile or deceit anywhere, merely love and a gentle concern for the child in front of her. Gwen prays silently that Nia will answer in the affirmative…..

Niawtu looks up at Gwen's face, as instructed and also speaks back in wolf's speech. "But, the potion made me forget my hurts... Isn't that good? I know he was orc, but I don't think the stuff hurts me... But, you speak with an alpha's voice... If you speak like that, than you must speak the truth." the child sighs. "I caused hurt on the man that reminds me of my father, didn't I?" sighing she picks up the glowing phial. The child then goes to drink it. It seems to immediately bring back the color to her eyes, however the color is not entirely there. Niawtu cringes a bit and grasps her head for a moment as her memories rush back to her. Once the memories have all returned a snarl of anger towards the orc, and herself for speaking so openly about her family is issued. Shaking her head she mutters a few words to herself, and blinking, then looks up at the others. The only thing left of the potion is it's highly addictive qualities, which could become trouble at a point, but for now she seemed ok. "Ranok?" the child asked, seeing his back turned away from her. She felt horrible about how she acted, for she could remember even those memories. She then turns towards Gwen and smiling gives her a big hug in thanks, she did feel better, and it was thanks to Gwen. However, there was still the matter of the orc and the addiction to the vial which she believed Ranok still possessed. But for now, she tried her hardest to hide that she was still addicted.

Ranok turns around, hearing his name come from the girl. His expression is impassive, though his eyebrow lifts slightly, "Hm? Yes?"

Niawtu looks upon Ranok with bright eyes, but they are also sad. "I remember you! I sorry for being mean..." she frowns as she looks towards Ranok. He, and only he would notice that her eyes are still a bit dull, due to him caring for her so. But for what it was worth, she was mostly better. "I don't wanna be with the orc... He hurt me... He cut my arm and ruined your sewing on my ankle... Also, I sorry I never tell you I could speak common through my thoughts... My pack can only speak like this... None of us were ever bitten lycans, we were born of the ice and snow... My father taught me that the Great Mother made us of her snow and ice, and that we are directly Her children... Father looked and acted like you, I think the Great Mother led me to Kelay because of you... Are you made at little Niawtu for being a bad cub? Niawtu would understand..." she quickly spouts out like a tea kettle, much like children tend to do. She didn't want Ranok to be hurt, and she would do anything to make him feel better. Such was her way.

Gwenilyn had not expected Nia to actually take the phial and empty its contents like that, but a wave of relief washes over her as Nia does so. She waits calmly for the potion to take effect and begin to cleanse the child, lips moving in silent prayer as it does. In answer to Nia's questions the fae murmurs sadly, as if speaking from experience, still using lupine communication. 'Little one, everyone suffers hurt at one time or another. It is life's way of teaching important lessons sometimes. As a healer, I would far rather take away every hurt I see, but that would be most unwise. If it did not hurt when one touches one's finger to flame, how would one even know when one is badly burnt? As for Ranok, worry not. He brought you here because he cares about you. He knows full well you would not have spoken as you did or would have done the things you did were you not under the spell of that potion. We all say things we don't mean. And those who love and care for us forgive us when we do.' Gwen reaches out and places a hand against the child's cheek and smiles with love and gentleness, sapphire orbs glowing softly as she speaks. 'What happened to your family is not~ your fault, no matter what you may feel just now. Just remember and hold in your heart that they loved you and always will. This is what you should remember, not anything else……' Gwen now places both hands on either side of Nia's face and brings their foreheads together to touch. The fae whispers, 'If you allow it, little one, I will take the ache of the potion away so that you need not suffer so….' Should Nia give permission, Gwen's spirit will arrow its way deep within the little girl's spirit, there to do battle with the ravening beast named Addiction.

Niawtu quickly says "No, Niawtu try to fight it herself... Niawtu is strong from being on the streets many years.... Unless Ranok says otherwise..." she asks looking towards him again.

Ganjimu twitches in his sleep and swats at an invisible fly, then turns away from the noises and conversations to drown it out.

Ranok turns fully now. "Hy hain't angry, Nia. Far from it. None uf vat heppened vas you fault. Hyu hed no hope against a full grown orc." A bare hand reaches up to scratch his chin. He didn't look angry. Or as ragged as he was. It seems he did invest in some rest. The cut on his face was still vivid, however, "A lot uf pipple bunded togedder to kome to you help. Hy hed tought such kindness in de lund fleetink, but it seems Hy em a liddle too kynical in my age." He gestures slightly at Gwen, "Let Gven do her vork. Dere iz no healer Hy trust more den her. She iz very kapable. In dese lunds, only vun kould lay henny klaim to beink a more accompleeshed healer den her, und dat iz Tea herself." A small hypocrisy. He wouldn't stand for having Gwen waste energy on healing his wounds, but he tells Nia to instead. Then again, he was a full grown man and knew what he was doing, presumably, so there was that. And he was a proud man as well.

Gwenilyn :: Ranok's words bring a blush and a grin to Gwen's features. To be likened anywhere near to Thea is highest praise and Gwen is humbled by it. However, out of respect for Nia and her strength of spirit, Gwen refrains from any further healing. To Ranok the fae murmurs, 'Ranok, you honor me too highly, I think, but I thank you for it. Nia, I will leave you with this. You do not wish my aid just now and I greatly respect that need to be strong. Tis one of the marks of a good soul. However, should the need become too great or you weary of fighting the fight alone, I am here. I will always be here for you, should you ever need me.' Gwen reveals a second phial containing the same rosy liquid. 'I want you to take this, little one. When the craving comes, for so it must for a while, I want you to sip at it, just a tiny bit at a time. This will keep the beast at bay, til you are stronger.' The fae takes Nia's hand in hers, presses the phial into the girl's palm, and closes her fingers over it. 'This was made just for you and it contains a part of me, so in a way, if you wish it so, we are now family. But… but only if you wish it.' Gwen offers the child a far greater gift than Nia realizes, for family is supreme in the gentle fae's heart and to be offered a place there is no small gift……. A suddenly mischievous glint comes to Gwen's eyes which only Nia will see, along with a silent "watch this!" and a wink. A tiny pop! is heard, pixie dust showers everywhere. When the dust settles, Gwen is revealed in her native height of six inches tall. In almost a blur of speed, the healer flits to Ranok's cheek, and before he can do more than blink, Gwen touches it with the tip of her finger and a grain of pixie dust. A tiny spark is given and in the place of the cut is now a fine white line, pain and irritation should be gone. For good measure, Gwen places a tiny kiss to the large man's cheek and flits away before he can swat at her. Another pop! is heard, more dust, and there stands Gwen, fully grown, hands on her hips and laughter pouring from her lips. 'There now, Ranok! That is for not letting me see to you earlier!'

Niawtu giggles her crystalline laugh that is inherent within her family, a laugh as beautiful as the sound of two crystal glasses tapping into eachother mixed with the sound of a silvery bell. "Gwen, I think we'd work well, like sisters do! ^_^" she smiles, this being her way of saying that she considers her family. Niawtu, forgetting her feet ties stands up only to lose balance and land on her tail. She laughs again, until she recalls something gasping she growls "Ranok! The orc that gave me that bad stuff took my pink bunny toy and the dyed fuzzy bunny from me! He put them in a basket in a ogre's shaman hut!" She hadn't realised what important information she had just issued there, for that was his hiding place. "I don't like that orc at all!" the child grumbles, worried for her bunny friends.

Niawtu crawls over to Ganji and pokes the center of his neck with her index finger causing frost to trail across his neck's spine, in hopes of waking him.

Ganjimu curls up tighter and says “Stop it, or I’ll show you a real ice show!”

Niawtu growls and then, though not exactly nice, uses puppy breath on the sleeping man. *puppy breath is awful!*

Gwenilyn cannot help but laugh at Nia's antics as well as Ganji's response. The fae considers what ot do to either aid or exacerbate the situation, eyes twinkling merrily.

Ganjimu gives a growl of his own, and opens his eye. "You know, a block of ice can float, and I have rope. Wanna see how far you can drift before I pull you back to mainland?"

Ranok intervenes, "Hokay, hokay, how about ve leaff de man dat nizely volunteered to keep an eye on hyu alone. After hall, if he vants to svim back to schore, ve may let him." A hand rubs his face, though. Gwen's magic was powerful indeed. to throw the wound he carried all the way into old scar tissue. Later, he would remark that it looked as if he'd had the scar for years.

Niawtu laughs happily, she at least got him up. "Ice doesn't scare me! And I can swim, besides I don't think Ranok would appreciate that, now that I'm ok! So hurry and get up!" she says poking his arm over and over again the way a child does, her silver bracelet glinting in the moonlight.

Gwenilyn :: Wthout further thought Gwen snaps her finger to bring a cup of steaming chocolate into her hands. The fae moves forward carefully, kneels down and murmurs, 'Why not try a sip of this before you murder the child I just healed? Please?'

Ganjimu groans and forces himself up. No coffee, no alcohol, and a frshly healed whelp. Definately not in the top ten for best morning ever. "Alright, alright. I'm up. How's the kid? Aside from tempting fate by waking me up?" He sounds gentle enough, but gives a glare to the girl anyway.

Niawtu smiles and then goes and tries to untie her ankles with her small spindly fingers. "Ranok? When we get back to shore, can you help me get my silver bracelet off? I miss being able to turn into a white wolf..." Niawtu randomly asks, forgetting Ganjimu's threat.

Gwenilyn chuckles softly, reaches for and finds something in the ever-present satchel. 'Here, hold this" as she cu is shoved into Ganji's hand. A flask is revealed, quickly unstoppered and poured into the cocoa. Should Ganji deign to try it he will find his cup of cocoa altered more to his liking!

Ranok just sighs and begins to prepare the boat. "Ve'll see about dat. Ganji, gimmee a hend vith dis." He didn't need the help, but being in the boat would be hard enough. Best to get away from the suddenly energetic Nia while they could.

Ganjimu politely declines the cup offered to him, smiles as best he can, and moves to help Ranok with the boat. Near his discarded flasks. "Aye. So, mission accomplished, I'm guessing, what with the girl not shouting at us anymore. What's your next step? That orc seemed the persistent type."

Niawtu manages to simply pull the bounds over her feet and then easily jumps to her feet, she -was- energetic, but who could blame her? She had basically been tied up for about four days, more or less. It would be difficult to get her to sleep this night. "Ranok, look!" She smiles pointing at the moon. "It's almost full! I like full moons, they make me feel very strong!" she smiles. It is well known that wolves gather some strength from the moon. "it's been forever since I took a nap in full moonlight...." she says with a thinking look. "Niawtu means moonlight, too! My twin brothers name was Maway, that means moonshadow... He had raven black hair! I think he might still be alive somewhere... but I dunno..." She continually keeps spilling out random words as Ranok prepares the ship.

Ranok tsks as he tosses the flasks into the sea. Anti-litter laws, his foot. They'd sink to the bottom of the ocean and not clutter up his well hidden retreat, "No, he vasn'. But, as hyu kan see, keepink her here...hain't an option. Onless hyu'd like to schpend 12 hours vith a hyper actiff gurl as de only source uf entertainment." A slight smile. No one wanted that. "De house Hy liff in hes a fev tinks. Includink a radder nifty emergency eksit in de kloset. Und de doors are very schturdy. Hy do goot vork. Additionally, hennyone dat schtays dere gets as much bakink as hyu kan take. Hyu'll see vat Hy mean."

Gwenilyn :: The mention of the orc makes Gwen's merry mood fade. The orc…. a Shaman, no less, from what she has gleaned. Tiny lines of worry appear between the fae's brows, not for herself so much as for Nia and Ranok. Though why she should worry about the great smith, Gwen hasn't the foggiest. He is well able to take care of himself…..A glance is given Ganjimu as well. They were all in some bit of danger so long as that shaman roams the lands……. Gwen offers up a silent prayer of protection for them all, then sets about tidying up the campsite, making certain to leave no traces behind of their time here. She then smiles softly at the girl's chatter, while Gwen makes her way to the boat.

Niawtu is suddenly silent as she recalls the orc. "Ranok, the orc wanted to teach me scrying... And he has my bunnies... What do we do? I can sense if someone is scrying for me, it makes me shudder... But what if he scrys someone else?" she didn't want to cause a downcasted feeling, but she figured that information shouldn't wait.

Ganjimu chuckles as he secures parts of the boat for the trip. The elf lost the ability to worry about shadows years ago, and, with Ranok around to reinforce the nonchalance, the two seem to be completely fearless. "I don't doubt your skills, Ranok. If you think your house is safe, then your house is safe. If you'd like, I can have a few rooms at the Fold compound ready for you two. Until things boil over." He looks back at Gwen. "You can stay, too, if you'd like. The roster is empty, so there are a lot of empty rooms that the poor guards have to protect anyway." Satisfied with the boat, he plants a foot and beckons to the ladies. "Welp, I think it's time for us to ship out. Ladies first."

Gwenilyn :: The frown lines increase more as Nia reveals further information. However worrying accomplishes nothing but worry lines, as Elthera was fond of saying. So Gwen shut the worry from her and smiles warmly up at Ganji at the invitation. 'Thank you Ganimu, tis kind of you to offer. I have a home in Rynvale and the Temple as well, where I may rest my weary head, but I appreciate your kindness. I would~ like to leave here though. I believe I have had enough of caves for now. And a hot meal would not go amiss either. I… I do not think I have eaten today… I can't seem to remember.' Most likely she has not, for when Gwen is in the throes of magic and such, all else fades, including her own need for sleep and sustenance.

Ranok gets in after the rest of the others and begins rowing back to shore.

Homeward Bound

Niawtu starts to pick at her bracelet as they row home, wanting badly to get it off. As they grow closer to land the child gets a sudden nagging feeling that they're being watched and looks up at a diagonal, only to see the goblin watching them from the sky. "Ranok! Ranok! Imalu is up in the sky!" she shrieks pointing at him. However, for some odd reason only she can see him. Perhaps a potion was used, but who knows?

Ranok looks up, "How deed he follow us? No matter. Ve'll lose him in de kity again. Hy know de place betta den henny schtreet runner." A habit, from his childhood. Any city he entered, he remembered. Every alley, every twist, and every crowd. Trying to follow him through a city when he didn't want to be was all but impossible.

Gwenilyn :: Without realizing it, Gwen's hands curl into claws as a snarl escapes lips that moments before were smiling. The fae whips around and flings purple fire into the sky fairly indiscriminately, in hopes of catchig the goblin Nia says is there.

Niawtu shakes her head "No! He not following us! He's going back to where the orc is! I think he hear where you plan to go... Or... Or around where it is... But he's going back -there-!" she moans

Niawtu :: Imalu yelps as the fire shoots towards him and flits to the side. The pink goblin then flies in the opposite direction they were heading. If one knew the layout of the lands well they would see that he headed towards Gamorg.

Ranok grumbles, "Do Hy hef to use every sinkle vun uf my safehouses in dis endeavor? " He had a few, but they were irritating to set up and both time consuming and expensive to maintain in some cases.

Gwenilyn hears the yelp but can find no body to accompany it, so Gwen turns back around, abashed at herself. Such an action is completely outside her usual behavior. Recent events are to be blamed, however not to be revealed at this time.

Niawtu looks upon Ranok with saddened eyes and then remembers an important detail "I remember now! Belphesius, that was his name! And... and he had a wound, on his leg. It makes him very tired and weak, I don't know how it got there, but he's slow from it too!

Ranok sighs as he continues rowing, "Don' vorry, Gven. Ve'll make a schtop trough Kenril. Hy vill see if Hy kan arrange zumddink." It seemed he could look forward to another night of no sleep.

Gwenilyn sits there silently, having nothing of use to offer in this particular situation. Perhaps when they reach land and make it to the safe house, she will be able to set magical wards...... Gwenilyn murmurs softly, 'Alright Ranok. I won't worry.' Though she smiles, inside she is thinking, 'Might should have told me not to breathe., You might have had better success with that one!

Ranok doesn't reply and focuses on the rowing. Barring further events, they would make it back to the jetty in short order.

Gwenilyn whispers to the night and scatters a few grains of dust in the air. When she does, the boat becomes far easier torow and seemsto almost glide on top of the water than through it. Gwen would not have her friend exhaust himself if she could help it

Niawtu shudders from the shock of seeing the goblin one last time and can't help but release a cold crystilline howl from her mouth, though it is beautiful and sounds more like a pray rather than worry. The child, however, jumps at the howl she's issued for she's never released a howl before through her whole life.

Ranok grunts as he rows, "Don' push youself too herd, Gven. Hyu healed Nia today und hyu're usink more energy. Don' vorry. Hy'll be fine. Hy never mentioned vere de house vas, only dat it eksisted. Measures vill be taken. Ve'll be hokay." Not to mention a few traps would be set, physical or otherwise. You didn't just waltz into the place where Ranok called home, much like you didn't just walk into Mordor.

Gwenilyn turns toward Nia with soft smile. 'You have a beautiful voice, Nia. Do not shy from it. It is your purest expression, your other self. And like you, it is beautiful. I remember Mara had a voice very like yours, High and pure......' A slight shadow crosses the fae's face as her eyes look to something only she can see. Gwenilyn cuckles softly as Ranok's words bring her back to herself. 'It would seem you know me better than I might like, my friend.' She sighs softly, for indeed, her energies are at a low. 'Very well,' and with a snap of her fingers the magical ease is gone and Ranok myst now pull in earnest.

Niawtu turns partially towards Gwen and nods with a smile. She rarely sang and rarely howled, for she was not taught such lessons (being seperated from her family before she could learn such. It was nice to have little lessons like that again.

Gwenilyn told you, "Once shore is reached, Gwen steps from the boat hurriedly, glad to find dry stable land. There are circles of fatigue under the fae's eyes and a slight sag to her posture. Gwen smiles warmly at Nia, deapite all that and murmurs ot her in wolfspeak, 'I am glad you are now my sister, Nia. May it be with us that way always. For now, I must part company. Go with Ranok, he wil keep you safe. And remember, *she pokes the child's nose with a fingertip ad chuckles, 'Mind you get some sleep and decent food.Else I shall have to tie you down and forcefeed yu!' Gwen laughs softly, winks and offers the child a hug befor turning ot Ranok. In common she says, 'Ranok, I have said it before and will risk repeating myself. You are a good man and a good friend. Blessed be, dear one.' With these words and an accompanying smile, the fae turns and slowly makes her way westward, to the Temple where her pillow, if not her husband awaits her."

Home Sweet Home

Niawtu is carried into the house. Her eyes glimmer at its appearance, yet the hyper activity seemed to be waning. The child yawns and rubs her eyes sleepily. She hadn't gotten a good sleep, that wasn't forced by a potion or powder, in the span of about a week.

Ranok would carry Niawtu instead of having her walk beside him. It spared her legs the long trek, and he could run if need be with her in his arms and not waste the time it would take to scoop her up. "Chust a bit more, Nia." And indeed, they were there. Brina was absent. She must have been out. The full moon had her on edge sometimes too. But the house would smell like fresh baking, from one of the many many goods that Brina loved to bake in her spare time. But none of that for Nia. Instead, right to bed she'd be taken.

Ranok takes Nia's wrist gently to look at the bracelet, "Vat iz it? Und vere deed it kome from?"

Niawtu yawns and says "it's a silver slaves bracelet... The slave trader that captured me when I was a kid put it on... Silver makes it so that lycan can't shift into their other forms... Sometime he'd put collars with silver spikes facing the wearers neck so that if that transformed it would stab them... I think we're all a little allergic to silver or something..." Niawtu shrugs after words.

Ranok hms. "Simple enough to fix." A pair of snips come out. A moment later, and with the liberal application of force via snips, and the bracelet would be off.

Niawtu smiles when she hears the silver bracelet clash against the floor and with a smile about her face she then suddenly transforms into an adorable and -very- poofy little white with with shimmering fur. She happily trots around the whole room, glad to be able to walk on all fours again. However, she is soon sleepy again and plops down upon the floor in a small floofy white ball.

Ranok murmers, "Is it dat klose to de full moon again already? Hm. Dere iz a bed, Nia. Hyu kan hef it. Hy vill lock up de house. Kall if hyu need hennyddink. Hy'll be in de room over for de vole night." And thus, he begins to lock up the house. Literally.

Niawtu yawns and stands back up "Good night, Ranok!" he hears her say through her mind, for even in wolf form she can still speak in such a manner. The cub heads for the bedroom and does a pretty good jump to get up. She quickly digs her way under the covers and falls asleep nice, cozy, and hopefully safe.