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The early morning sun sent a penetrating ray directly into Dalia's eyes, and she rolled over in an attempt to go back to sleep. Tobi's thoughts insinuated themselves into her brain, and any chance of returning to sleep evaporated with the morning dew.
Up, sleepyhead. We have things to do today. Tobi eased her way up the bed and rubbed her head under Dalia's chin.
She sighed and scratched Tobi's ears. "I know, love. The Kuriousity Shoppe calls, but first I must dress." Dalia flung the covers off, unceremoniously tossing the ghatta to the floor. Tobi landed on her feet and shot Dalia a reproachful look before grooming rumpled fur back into place.
"I'm sorry, my dear," Dalia said while reaching for her pantaloons, "Will some breakfast cheer you up?"
Tobi dipped her head once in affirmation. Best hurry, though, so we can do some exploring before 11 o'clock.
Dalia smiled. Ever curious, eh love? she 'spoke
affectionately. Hastily donning the rest of her clothing, she reached for her sword as an after thought. Best not to leave oneself unprotected in unfamiliar places. Dalia locked the door to her room and tucked the key into her tunic pocket, the smell of freshly baked bread wafting up the stairs made her mouth water and her pace quicken. Settling into a seat at the bar, she
ordered two slices of bread with jam, a mug of coffee, and a bowl of cream for Tobi. Taking in the bustle of the breakfast crowd, Dalia savoured the fresh strawberry jam and sensed
Tobi's contentment as she practically licked the glaze from the ceramic bowl.
After the coffee had chased away the remainder of the morning's chills, Dalia placed five coppers on the bar
beside her empty plate and paused to place the bowl there as well. She made her way to the stable, Tobi padding in her wake, and approached her beloved gelding Teak. Gently stroking
his forehead and scratching his ears, he nickered a greeting and sought her hands for a treat. She gave him the saved piece of bread and jam from breakfast and patted his neck. "Greedy
horse," she whispered affectionately and began to saddle him for the day's adventure. Dalia walked Teak out of the stable before mounting him in one swift move, followed by Tobi hopping onto the pommel platform.
"Shall we explore the fair city of Stormpoint?" Dalia
asked them both, the smile that played across her face rivaled the sun for brightness. Tobi wrinkled her nose, her tail flickering in anticipation. She had a feeling today was going to be an exciting day.
Dalia licked the last of the glaze from a strawberry pastry from her fingers as Tobi freed some sticky bits from her whiskers. The merchant district of Stormpoint had proven to be a very
interesting place with wares ranging from fine imported silks to gawdy souveniers. Dalia had indulged in a dragon figurine carved from white quartz to remind her of Ariadne and Delius,
but Tobi had insisted on a mid-morning snack when she scented the bakery. Dalia sighed with contentment and looked around while she stroked Tobi, a low purr rumbling in her chest.
It's nearly 11 o'clock, love. We should be making our way to the Kuriousity Shoppe. Tobi's mindvoice cut into her daydreams.
"I know, dear. We are heading that way now. Good thing the baker was kind enough to provide us with directions." The thought of being lost in this part of the city wasn't all that bad, until she pictured the criminal element that must be
prevelant in such a well established marketplace.
The thieves are greatly feared. Tobi told her while grooming her face. I have caught snippets of thoughts connected to a group they call Ravensclaw. When people are afraid their thoughts are least guarded.
Dalia gave Tobi a hard stare. You know we're not supposed to enter thoughts without permission. Tobi laid a paw on Dalia's hand gripping the reins. I would never . . . they are afraid. This is the group that was causing the trouble Ariadne worried about so much. Their fear makes their
thoughts more easily heard.
Dalia relented a little and sighed. "Then I suppose we
should be extra careful. You never know when something bad could happen." As Dalia approached the street where the Kuriousity Shoppe was located, she had the strangest feeling
that her words were more right than she knew.
Giacomo had been spending many of his days watching the Kuriousity Shoppe. Having been freed of his obligation to hunt Calo when his prior host was destroyed, Eowyn now emerged as
the main focus of his attention. So many questions surrounding her flowed through his mind in one long parade, much like the crowd of townspeople that passed beneath him.
He watched them now as they scurried through the streets, playing an inane game to pass the time and distract himself temporarily from his thoughts of Eowyn. "Peasant, peasant, orc,
watch member, peasant, thief, peas.............." He stopped suddenly and focused on a lone figure moving through the masses. ~~Now there is an interesting aura--a silver beacon shinning out from the thongs of mundanes surrounding her. A truthseeker? Here? How annoying. Well, I suppose they will let just anyone in to town.~~ Suddenly he snapped to attention. ~~No. Wait. This is perfect. Just what I'm looking for.~~ "Gerere," he called out, "here boy."
Hearing his master's voice, the small purple dragonet hopped up from playing with a ball of twine on the roof behind Giacomo.
"See her?"
Giacomo asked, pointing to the passing form of the truthseeker below.
The dragonet encircled Giacomo's outstretched hand as he pointed, his snout following the demon's finger as he hissed in recognition of his target.
"Good boy. Go fetch. Bring it to me."
Eager to please his master, Gerere took to wing and dove towards the truthseeker as Giacomo teleported into a darkened alley to await her arrival. The small dragonet landed at the truthseeker's feet and began to dance around her as if to engage her in a game.
Dalia made sure to rein Teak in tight to avoid stepping on one of the many passers-by in the busy street while Tobi nipped after a particularly irritating flea. "The Kuriousity Shoppe is
just two more doors down, love. Do I look presentable?"
Tobi, satisfied that the flea was now dead, gave her a critical once-over with her appraising blue eyes. Hmm . . . still a bit travel weary, but that is to be expected. Tuck in your tunic and straighten your cloak, and maybe comb your hair.
Dalia stuck out her tounge at Tobi. "Is that all," she began
sarcastically, "or should I stop off for a quick bath too?" The faintest mind-chuckle tickled her brain as a response. Dalia was about to playfully swat Tobi with her own swishing tail
when out of the corner of her eye she noticed a streak of purple decending from a nearby rooftop. A purple dragonet landed at Teak's feet without warning and spooked the poor gelding senseless. Dalia did her best to control him while Tobi leapt clear of the dangerously tilted platform. Teak landed hard on his front legs, and Dalia thought she finally calmed him
until the dragonet skittered around again, and caught Dalia unprepared. This time Teak reared and bolted, leaving Dalia in an undignified heap on the cobblestone street.
Holding her pounding head and seething internally, Dalia got up from the street and looked around. "Oh great!" she moaned. Tobi, see if you can find Teak and convince him to come back while I deal with this dragonet and whoever in the hells owns him! Tobi took off down the street without a backward glance while Dalia stood over the purple dragonet, who was chirruping
triumphantly, and tapped her foot impatiently, waiting for the irresponsible owner to arrive.
Delius sat curled up under the fruit vendor's cart. The slim figured man, who knew Ariadne from some seeking or another, had given him a piece of yellow melon. He was enjoying the
piece of fruit, chin propped on tail, as he nibbled away and watched Dalia and Tobi.
Ariadne had the day off, she'd taken the twins to the meadows to go play and he had yet to see the city proper and up close as any good curious dragon should.
Delius dropped the melon into the dust as the purple dragonet spooked Dalia's gelding. The woman landed as uncerimoniously as the discarded fruit and Delius hissed.
That little excuse for a dragon! What was he doing here? Pathetic extension of that demon Samantha hated so much and he remembered when Gerrere had seen fit to pass out dragon
flesh jerky as treats.
~YOU LITTLE-!~
The mind thought is never finished as Delius launched himself in the air and dove, paws outstretched, straight into the purple dragonet in a tangle of scales and hisses. His mind speech
was strained to include the seeker pair, but he did it anyway.
~What in the Emperor's Name do you think you are doing here you little pathetic excuse for a dragon, fawning over that demon like he's some God! ~ Delius snorted in fury, sending a
small little puff of smoke into the air. He positioned himself between Dalia and Gerere and, mustering all the dignity his small turqouise frame could hold, he waited for an answer.
~What in the Emperor's Name do you think you are doing here you little pathetic excuse for a dragon, fawning over that demon like he's some God! ~ Delius snorted in fury, sending a
small little puff of smoke into the air. He positioned himself between Dalia and Gerere and, mustering all the dignity his small turquoise frame could hold, he waited for an answer.
Gerere danced around Delius, friendly, playfully, like this is all some game, but the mindspeak that only Delius could hear was anything but playful.
~~ He is a god to me. Found me broken and breathed life into my frame again. Erasing all that passed before I was reborn. You are correct. I am no longer a simple dragon, but a hybrid of
demon and dragon. I am so much more then you are. You cannot fathom what I can now see.~~
A collage of images accompanied the words--greyness with shifting shadows of memories forgotten, until interrupted by a red flash of pure pain. The fear of death took an icy grip as
the light faded and a final breath was drawn. Then suddenly Giacomo's face appeared and the void of death was forced back, and the pain died slowly away.
~~Why, how dear you call yourself a dragon when one of our number lies dead and unavenged? Akton's sprint hardly rests at all as his murderers still walk. If my master had not ordered me to stay my claws. I would be feasting on their hearts and bathing in their blood. But you have no such constraints and what are you doing? Eating fruit? And you call me a 'pathetic excuse for a dragon.'~~
~~I serve my master as loyally as you serve your mistress, and he had business with this woman. I am to bring her to him. So step aside or be removed. Or perhaps a visit to your mistress and the twins as they play in the meadow would be more in order?~~~~
((author's note: The opening paragraph was contributed by Calo Diger))
Gerere seems to grow bored with the game he is playing with Delius, and begins to hop up and down, making cooing noises towards the Truthseeker, then looks away and back as if trying
prompt her to follow.
Dalia looks in disbelief from the turquoise dragonet to the purple dragonet. "What in blazes in going on?" Exasperated, she throws her hands up into the air. "Alright, little one," she says to the purple dragonet, "I'll play your game. Where do you want me to follow?" At the same time she mindspeaks her other companions. Delius, don't worry. Tell Ariadne that
everything is fine. Whatever this purple hellion wants, I'll get it over with. And Tobi, she mindcalled to her bondmate, stay in close contact with me. I want you to be aware of
everything that is going on.
After all these years, the answering mindvoice still tickled her
brain. As always, my beloved. I would never abandon you to a stranger such as that. Dalia breathed a sigh of relief despite herself.
Any luck with Teak, love? Dalia advanced slowly in the direction the purple dragonet was enticing her to go.
Well, he's at least stopped. We should be returning very shortly.
Dalia nodded to herself, knowing the feeling was conveyed to Tobi, and followed along patiently behind the dragonet in front of her.
Gerere led Dalia down into a preternaturally dark alley where only the red glow of rats eyes greeted her. The silence was deafening. She could not even hear her own breath. The light
from the street behind was a shining beacon, calling to her to return to its safe embrace. She was about to comply when she felt a warm breath on the back of her neck. Alarmed, she
suddenly turned to face whatever was there, and was greeted by a tall silver-haired man whose dress was more appropriate to an All Fool's Day celebration than lurking in dank alleyways.
"Who the devil are you?" Dalia began, almost jumping as her own voice broke the silence like a clap of thunder.
An inhumanly wide grin sent a cold chill through her as this stranger found something in her question to be humorous. "Funny you should ask that."
Still slightly startled by his impish appearance, Dalia casts her mind out for Tobi as she asked the stranger, "Why did you have that purple demon of yours scare my horse to death to get my
attention?"
The man bowed politely with a court-like formality. "Milady, please forgive Gerere's exuberance. I only meant to see if I could inquire on how to retain your services."
As he bowed, Dalia glanced over her shoulder and noted the return of her Tobi with her horse. Get over here, Tobi. I need your help. "My services? How could I be of service to you?"
Righting himself, the stranger leaned against the wall, and began to absently juggle as he spoke. "Well, as you can imagine people of my...how shall we say... race have a certain
problem with the commodity in which you barter."
Dalia, not certain what to make of this response, glanced to Tobi for help. What is he talking about? "I see. So what can I do for you Mr.. . . ah . . . I don't believe I caught your name."
Behind her Tobi's eyes widen with fear and revulsion. I touched nothing but pure evil. Be very careful dealing with him, love. He's dangerous.
The stranger's grin changed suddenly into a frown. "Oh, where are my manners. My name is Giacomo, a simple entertainer." With this introduction, he took her hand and began to raise it
to his lips. He stopped just short of his mouth, however, and held her hand a bit too long for courtesy. Looking back up towards her without releasing he hand, he said finally, "I see you have meet a dear friend of mine. An absolutely beautiful woman going by the name of Eowyn ....... that is, this time."
Quickly retrieving her hand Dalia almost stammered in response. "Well, I haven't exactly met her yet. I received an invitation to her shoppe, and that's where I'm headed now. What does all of this have to do with my services?"
"Ahh how convenient. Well, you see, I believe that my friend, Eowyn, has been living a lie. All this time she is not what she seems." He stopped and quickly cast his eyes around in a
nervous gesture, then continued in a conspiratorial whisper. "Actually, I believe she may be a demon."
Dalia's eyes widened in sudden shock at this declaration. "What would make you believe that?" Tobi, what is going on?
Tobi gave a long, considering lick down her flank before
answering the question. All I can tell you is he believes what he says. Until we meet this Eowyn, I will not know if there is any Truth to it.
Giacomo looked around worriedly with her question. "I cannot say much. You never know what is listening, and I have someone to protect. Please, you do understand?"
Dalia nodded seriously, deciding to humor him for the time being. "Of course I understand. So please tell me, Giacomo is it, tell me what I can do for you."
Giacomo smiled warmly towards her now. "As I mentioned earlier my 'race' has a certain susceptibility to deception, and it is common knowledge that 'her kind' can twist the truth. All
I am asking is that you unravel the web she has spun about herself and tell me what you find."
Dalia paused thoughtfully to consider her response. "Even though I am not a full-fledged Seeker, Tobi and I do have the ability to read truth in the thoughts of others. And though we
are not bound to travel and hear cases, we are honor bound to the rule of not entering another's thoughts without permission. If Eowyn grants permission for us to read her, I will tell you what I find. Other than that, the best I can do is surface thoughts."
Giacomo gave a simple nod and raised a hand in warning. "I quite understand, and you might also keep in mind that should she realize what your searching for, your life may well be at
risk."
A small smile tugged at the corner of Dalia's mouth. "I am still alive today for not taking such risks, but thank you for your concern." Tobi, what are we going to do?
Tobi radiated concern towards her beloved bond. I think you're doing fine. Just keep humoring him and we can get out of here. I'll explain everything I read when we leave.
"That is quite good news then." Giacomo exclaimed, placing a large pouch of gold coins in her hands. "For your troubles. I insist. I am staying at a club called the Raven for the time
being. Please feel free to call upon me with what you discover. I am even planning quite a show there. With any luck you might catch it."
Dalia accepted the gold reluctantly. "Well, . . . . ummm it sounds like a treat I wouldn't want to miss. I suppose you know where to find me. We'll be in touch then?" She smiled nervously as the conversation came to an end and the stranger stepped back into shadows which seemed to consume him, except for his disturbing grin and ice blue eyes.
"Oh yes, fear not, milady, we will meet again. Like an abacus," he added, chuckling dryly, "you can count on it." And with that, he faded completely, his laugh floating on the wind, almost chasing Dalia as she left the darkness and once again stepped
into the light.
<\p>
Dalia shivered despite the warmth of the sunlit street, suddenly made keenly aware just how much her head ached from the spill she took. She caressed Teak's neck, and rubbed his nose as he whinnied softly. The gold she had received from the demon felt like the weight of the world in her hands. Dalia quickly buried it deep in the left saddlebag.
I know where the money comes from, my dearest, but perhaps we can find a better use for it.
Tobi vaulted onto the pommel platform and settled herself. That sounds like a wonderful idea, love. Dalia smiled for the first time since her encounter with Giacomo. "I shall have to remember to ask Eowyn if there are any charities in need of some extra help." Dalia placed a foot into the stirrup and swung herself into her saddle.
Tobi smiled a feline smile as Dalia directed Teak
back to the way they were going. There are always those in need who would be more deserving than ourselves. Dalia nodded, still smiling, and carefully negotiated Teak down the bustling street leading to merchant's row. "So, my beloved, are you going to explain to me what that demon's ravings were all about?"
Tobi groomed an orange paw before answering. He believes what he says, and he is serious about discovering whether or not Eowyn is a demon. But keep it in mind that everything he
says is based on shaky beliefs and half-truths. He is a demon, after all, and can't be trusted.
Dalia absorbed what Tobi told her and mulled it over while they rode towards the docks. When she detected the stronger tang of salt in the air, she knew they were close. Tobi licked her muzzle in anticipation of smoked fish for lunch. But even as Dalia's excitement boistered her from her encounter with the demon, the sight that greeted her on the row deflated her
again.
The docks were gone and numerous shoppes were burned to the ground by a massive fire. What happened, Tobi? Dalia looked around at the many shoppe owners trying to salvage anything usable from the depths of the ashes, awestruck by the fierce power the fire must have had.
It was that demon, Giacomo. Tobi's sensitive spine hairs began to raise. But it wasn't him directly. The people around here have the image of a petite girl in the forefront of their
minds. His power infused her with the ability to wreak this havoc on the city. The whole atmosphere stinks of his demonic powers.
Dalia shook her head silently, wondering how such
madness existed in such a beautiful city. Upon sighting the Kuriousity Shoppe, relief flooded through her that Eowyn was still alive to share whatever was so important to invite her here. Dalia guided Teak up to the horse tie, swung down from the saddle, and loosely draped the reins over the rail. Tobi jumped down from the platform and stayed close at her heels as she opened the door to the Shoppe, soft chimes announcing their presence to whomever was inside.
It was half-past eleven when the chimes pealed throughout the shoppe, announcing the arrival of the seeker and the ghatta. The sound lightened Eowyn's spirits only slightly, and she
walked steadily towards the pair, silence and shadow trailing in her wake. She stopped a few feet away from her guests and the shadow shifted about her frame, a darksome mantle of responsibility draped heavily about her shoulders. Studying first Dalia, then Tobi, she said finally, "I see you've met my friend outside." The word "friend" carried a peculiar emphasis,
clearly conveying the message that the daemon was no friend of hers. "You needn't worry, he can't bother you in here."
"That's good," Dalia said with obvious relief as her eyes traveled from Eowyn's dissecting gaze to a silver pendant which hung around her neck. Tobi, do you see it? The symbol on her
pendant is the same as on the invitation we received. Tobi's response was a decisive tail flick as she approached Eowyn cautiously, her nose outstretched to greet-sniff her hand. "You must be Eowyn," Dalia said, "and you must know that I am Dalia and this is Tobi."
Eowyn kneeled and stretched a hand out to Tobi, allowing her to sniff inquisitively. When the ghatta seemed satisfied, Eowyn gave her a slight scratch to the top of her head, then
straightened to her full height, noting that Tobi wasted no time in turning back to Dalia. She can be trusted, love. Her spirit is good, as are her intentions in bringing us here. Still, she's
very closed. There's definitely something she doesn't want us to know.
Dalia appeared visibly relieved, but was unable to set aside the warning, the charge, that Giacomo had given her. Thinking back to the first thing Eowyn had said upon greeting them at the shoppe's entrance, she suddenly realized that she had been given an opportunity to explore that charge.
"Wait," she began, "you know that creature . . . Giacomo?"
As was her habit, Eowyn declined to explain her statement and instead gestured for Dalia and Tobi to follow her to the back of the shoppe, stating only, "I have something that might interest you." The seeker pair followed, and Dalia glanced about the shopped as they walked, trying to take it all in. It seemed somehow larger than it had from the outside, and was filled
with cases, cabinets, shelves, and counters housing items both foreign and familiar.
A rainbow flicker of light caught Dalia's eye as she passed, and she fell a few steps behind as she slowed to examine it. She discovered that it was coming from a glass display case on the far wall. Inside was a diamond-cut crystal about the size of Dalia's fist casting a rainbow of colors across the floor. The crystal almost seemed to glow with a light of its own, and Dalia could sense the obvious power it held. Without realizing it, Dalia felt drawn to the crystal and reached out to touch it. Only Tobi brushing against her leg brought her back to her senses. When she looked back up, Eowyn was several yards ahead and rounding a corner behind a looming wooden bookshelf. Dalia had to hurry to catch up, but her host didn't seem to notice, not once looking back to her guests in tow.
Dalia rounded the corner behind the shelf in time to see the shoppekeeper pull back a heavy curtain that hung against the far back wall of the shoppe's floor, concealing a small room. Eowyn gestured again for Dalia and Tobi to enter the room, then followed behind them, allowing the curtain to swing back into place with a deep rustling sound. The room was dimly lit, and Eowyn set about to adjusting some of the low-burning oil lamps mounted on the walls.
Allowing her eyes to adjust, Dalia could see that the room was empty save for a single table, flanked by two chairs and a stool for the ghatta. Given the location and size of the room, Dalia
surmised that it was used for more private dealings, or select showings of more unique, and possibly questionable, merchandise. Atop the table sat a small box fashioned of a deep-hued wood.
"Take a seat, please." Eowyn said without further explanation
Not wanting to voice her concerns yet, Dalia chose mindspeech over verbal communication. What do you think is going on, love? Dalia asked as she lowered herself into the chair and
stroked Tobi when the ghatta hopped onto the stool next to her.
I'm not sure yet, but I'd bet my whiskers it has something to do with that Giacomo character we met outside.
Pausing only long enough to take the seat across from the seeker pair, Eowyn opened the box which lay between them. The hinges box groaned in protest as the lid was raised, and the chimes by the front door pealed once again as a chill breeze swept through the shoppe. This time, however, their timbre had somehow darkened, and Dalia shivered involuntarily with the combined effect. Noting her reaction, Eowyn waited for just a moment before reaching inside the box to retrieve what lay within.
She withdrew a book, bound in leather of deepest green, and secured by a single leather cord. Unfastening the tome with the dexterity inherit to her race, Eowyn looked up once towards
Dalia, then opened the volume for her visitors to read.
Dalia, uncertain, but curious, looked down upon the book and tried to read its text. She blinked several times, feeling that her eyes must not be focusing properly, but each time she looked she was greeted with the same sight--the book's script was crawling across the page, yielding to no form of comprehension.
The confusion written across the seeker's face did not escape the shoppekeeper, and had Dalia glanced from the text to her host, she might have been felt that she was being tested. As it was, however, the seeker pair missed the expression, and, her evaluation made, Eowyn placed a hand on Dalia's her forearm. "Here, let me help you."
The text steadied with Eowyn's touch, then faded into a darkness so black that Dalia felt lost within its void until its grim hold was broken by Eowyn's voice. "The book contains much
information . . . too much to start at the beginning." As Eowyn flipped through the pages, searching for a starting point, images flickered wildly through Dalia's mind. Images of
darkness, a daemon, and a mad god. Faster and faster they flew past, a blur of motion, until finally Eowyn found her place, and another image began to take shape.
Dalia quickly expanded the flood of mental images to include Tobi. The ghatta's fur rippled and each hair stood on end as if she were electrified. Focusing now on the book, Dalia saw the
daemon Giacomo standing in the center of bedlam. Attacks came at him from all sides from several surrounding figures, and though Dalia had never seen them before, somehow she knew
them. The Lord Sable was here, raining down hatred upon the daemon. Stormpoint's High Justice, Calo Digerian, was at his side, sending bolts of magic searing into the creature.
Another figure, Kaven Darkmoon, joined their assault, while a kindred woman, Triana Valmont, grabbed another of her kind and quickly vanished.
Outside the battle, Dalia noticed the dark-cloaked figure of Eowyn. Blood poured from her palm and ran thick over an item clutched tightly within her hand. Raising her voice above the
feverish pitch of the assault, Eowyn cried out a name and hurled the item at the daemon. The item broke as it touched the creature's flesh and encircled him in a burst of light. When the
light faded, the demon was gone.
The image faded quickly thereafter, and Eowyn prompted Dalia to turn another page. As if in a daze, the seeker obeyed and was quickly assaulted by another flood of images. A "presence"
filled this next page, a fell madness that threatened to escape the bounds of the book, and Dalia realized that though Giacomo's body had been destroyed in the previous encounter, his essence remained, and it was searching for another host. It found one in Calo Digerian, tricking the man who plagued his former host into absorbing him in an effort to finally dispel him.
Another turn of the page, however, revealed that the daemon was once again ahead of those who would route him. A key, a portal, a link had been placed within two of those now within
Stormpoint--one an enemy, one an ally--Calo and Triana. But the "story" shifted, before Dalia could learn their importance leaving these two behind for a time, and focusing on another chapter in the daemon's history.
The next page revealed a battle-weary Dominia, the smallest of the kingdoms bordering Stormpoint, ruled by the Lady Samantha. Her fields bloomed with corpses, and those not lying to rot upon the ground roamed the battlegrounds in legions, in service to the dark creature remembered only as Lord Soth. The fell army turned next towards Darkendale, the second of Stormpoint's kingdom's, sweeping through plague-ridden streets at the direction of a rogue mage, Bloodscream. Though Darkendale and Dominia were eventually purged of Soth's pestilence, Bloodscream escaped in the retaking, for a different fate awaited her.
Lost within the images which came fast and vivid, Dalia turned another page unconsciously. There, she saw the spectral form of Giacomo appear before the rogue mage, offering to hide
her in exchange for a trivial favor--a vial of Digerian's blood. It seemed so small a matter for Bloodscream, and she quickly accepted, eager to elude the wrath of Lord Sable whose
retribution coursed wildly through the recaptured kingdoms. Thus, was one of the two links acquired, bringing Giacomo closer to his physical return.
The following page swirled with mist and distorted images that floated and twirled on the edge of consciousness. Dalia found the scene compelling and yet oddly familiar, and she finally
realized that she was inside a dream, or rather, inside the unconscious mind of Triana Valmont. Here, the mental link of the daemon was placed, and here it called to the kindred
soul that had once been its ally. Having seen the true nature of the beast, Triana was ill-disposed to assist in its return; but as always, the creature was just ahead of its hunters, its
prey, and it found the weakness that would turn Triana to its will--Juleana. Armed with this knowledge, Giacomo made the most basic of offers, a life for a life--Juleana's continued
existence for his own freedom. The deal was struck, though whether Triana fully understood her actions is a question whose answer still remains clouded even in the mists of Triana's mind.
With the turn of the page came inevitable--the joining of the links, the return of the daemon. Dalia watched in frozen horror as the creature emerged from the rift, then fulfilled its promise
to Bloodscream, hiding her so completely that none would ever find her, consuming her body with his essence as she became his next host. And though he molded her form to suit his own
image, as always, some small part of the host remained--a trait, a talent, yes, these things were possible, but this time it was a memory, a burning hatred for Sable, the one who had routed
her--the one from whom she fled. And, never one to question success, Giacomo again chose to strike at that which his prey held dear.
Dalia watched in helpless fascination and horror as the images passed, unable to turn away even as the daemon overtook the one who brought about his release. She watched as the daemon reshaped the body, but was unable to entirely overcome the mind, and so accepted as his own a burning hatred for Sable, the one who had routed his host. Still, the daemon's memory was long and he clung to his tactics of old, choosing to strike at that which his prey held dear.
Dalia turned another page, and was faced with a different scene, a vision so real she felt as if she was a part of it, and she found herself stepping onto the stage of an ancient theatre.
Though the building contained all the charm of the French Quarter, a darkness hung in its cloistered air--a staleness, and a sense of death that walked among the living. As the sounds of
distant voices began to ring in the seeker's ears, and pale-skinned visitors graced the stage and orchestra, Dalia realized that she was in a theatre of vampires. One among the residents,
however, clearly did not belong--a motley-garbed daemon bent on destruction. Though the residents quelled his desire for a time, it soon resurfaced and the delayed destruction came in a
crashing blow as the theatre fell to the ground in ruin and rubble.
Insanity, however, is so rarely satisfied, and this act alone was insufficient to satiate the daemon's humor. The story thus continued with Giacomo's arrival in his prey's new city, still
wearing the face of his earlier elven host. It was these features and this host's reputation that attracted the attention of a shadow-cloaked figure. Coins and promises were exchanged and another great bloodletting began, though few mourned the passing of these newest victims, themselves brokers in death.
The images on the following pages flowed more quickly. Dalia saw the daemon flee from Eowyn at the gypsy camp, but not before snapping the neck of one of the gypsies. She saw also the clan's matriarch, Rianna Askeveron, cry out a curse upon the creature, her own blood running cold with the gypsy woman's screams. She then saw Eowyn again, standing close to the daemon, and watched as the creature whispered an unheard message in her ear. She saw a cluster of dragonets staring at one of their number in horror and disgust as the object of their attention laughed in spiteful glee. She saw Father Selnecker, Lady Juleana, and a small boy standing before the church, and, with the arrival of others, realized that the child was Giacomo.
Finally, she saw the daemon wandering through the city, and relived her own meeting with him, feeling anew the jolt as she fell from her horse. This time, however, she saw the daemon
watching her as she left and as she entered the shoppe, and the image before her narrowed until she saw only his two eyes, ice blue and unblinking, staring hard upon her. She raced to turn the page, to end the piercing gaze, but Eowyn's hand latched onto her wrist with an ice-cold grip. "That page is not yet written, and it's dangerous to read too far."
Finally, Dalia saw the daemon wandering through the city and relived her own meeting with him, feeling anew the jolt as she fell from her horse. This time, however, she saw the daemon
watching her as she left, as she entered the shoppe, and the image before her narrowed until she saw only his two eyes, ice blue and unblinking, staring hard upon her. She raced to turn
the page, and nearly jumped when Eowyn's hand latched onto her wrist. "That page is not yet written, and it is dangerous to read too far."
Breathing quickly, Dalia looked up at Eowyn, yet not really seeing her. She shook her head slowly and closed her eyes to clear the afterimages from her brain. "Why did you bring us here and show us this? That . . . thing," she spit out the word for emphasis, "is the same creature we met outside. If he truly is that powerful, what can we do?"
Eowyn regarded Dalia thoughtfully before responding. "Alone, very little, but with others . . ." she paused, silently debating how much to reveal, and how much to reserve. It was familiar debate--one she had engaged in several times over many different matters. Disclose too much and risk the paralyzation of fear. Disclose too little and risk the injury of ignorance. It was early yet, however, and there was time for further explanation. What the seeker needed now was assurance, and that much Eowyn could give. "With others, there are . . . possibilities."
Dalia looked to Tobi questioningly, and Tobi only gazed back giving the faintest whisker twitch. "Others? What others do you speak of?"
Eowyn pondered Dalia's question, and her curiosity, but having already reached her decision on this point, chose not to answer directly. "The time has not yet come to reveal their identities, but there are others--others who would stand against the creature and bar his destructive path."
Dalia nodded thoughtfully. She genuinely wishes our help, my beloved. came Tobi's mental commentary. I sense it too, my dear one, but we need to know what exactly she wants from us.
"Eowyn," Dalia began carefully, "though I respect your wish not to reveal the others involved, I must know what it is you think Tobi and I can do for you."
"You possess an ability the others lack, an ability which may serve as a powerful weapon against the creature." She let the statement hang, waiting for Dalia to speak the answer she
must know.
"You refer to our ability to search out the Truth in others." Dalia caressed Tobi's head as much to comfort the ghatta as herself. "But before we continue, I feel I must ask you," she
paused while trying to decide how to phrase her question, "what is your connection to Giacomo?"
If Eowyn was surprised by Dalia's question, she didn't show it. Instead, her face remained expressionless for what seemed like several moments before one corner of her mouth turned upward in a wry smile. "I see your meeting with the daemon was more detailed than I thought. What did he tell you?"
For a brief moment, Dalia was worried about how much of her conversation she should reveal. Tobi, I need your help. What should I tell her? I can't lie, but I'm not sure the truth
would go over so well.
Don't worry, love. Tobi soothed. Just tell her enough to get the ball rolling. Tell her that Giacomo feels some sort of connection with her, but there's no need to be too specific until we find out more about her.
Dalia nodded imperceptibly and once again regarded Eowyn. "He mentioned that he feels connected to you somehow, and I was
wondering if you had any idea what he was talking about."
"Connected?" Eowyn asked, arching one brow to an inhuman height and staring sharply into Dalia's eyes, certain that the daemon would have said more had he chosen to speak.
Dalia felt distinctly uncomfortable, but returned the unwavering gaze.
Impressed by the other's resolve, Eowyn continued levelly, "I realize that you are not a full seeker, but you must have realized that the daemon trades in lies and deception."
Dalia nodded. "Yes, Tobi has warned me about his passion for lies and half-truths, but behind every exaggeration lies a grain of truth."
Seeing that the seeker would not be swayed, Eowyn added only, "I cannot speak to what the daemon believes to be true, but this much I can say--save for two events, you have seen the sum of my 'connection to' the creature."
Dalia looked to Tobi, who nodded her satisfaction, then she turned back to Eowyn. "Then I believe Tobi and I will have to take your offer under advisement. Can you give us until
tomorrow morning?"
Both corners of Eowyn's mouth turned slightly upward this time, but Dalia found the expression to be more aloof than congenial, "I'll expect your answer in two days time."
"Thank you very much, but I have one more thing to ask of you." Dalia looked to Tobi as if to make certain she was doing the right thing, and at Tobi's slight head dip of approval she
continued. "The daemon, Giacomo, he forced some gold into my hands and I was wondering if you knew of any less fortunate who could use it more than I?"
Eowyn considered the question silently, and the look in her eyes suggested that she was taking further measure of both the seeker and the instant circumstances. Having apparently reached a
conclusion, she stated in a tone more friendly, but no less cryptic, "You may wish to consider visiting the church. It ministers to the needs of many."
"Church," she said the foreign word carefully, "I will do that, thank you." Nodding to Eowyn as she rose, Dalia left the back room of the shoppe with Tobi padding silently at her side.
Only the sound of the bells over the shoppe entrance marked Dalia and Tobi taking leave of the Kuriousity Shoppe.
Only the sound of the bells over the shoppe entrance marked Dalia and Tobi taking leave of the Kuriousity Shoppe.
Once outside the shoppe, Dalia reached for Teak's reins and gazed into the sun setting over the harbor. She continued to look out over the water marvelling at the beauty of it while
unwinding the reins. She only broke her gaze long enough to swing into the saddle. Tobi hopped onto the pommel platform and circled three times before settling on the soft sheepskin
cover. They both looked a few moments longer, as if wishing they could somehow join the peacefulness they observed, before turning back towards the section of Stormpoint that housed the many taverns and inns of the city.
"We certainly have much to think about, don't we?" Dalia sighed.
Indeed we do, love. Tobi said while watching a seagull return to the docks.
"What is your take on this whole situation?"
Tobi sat in silent contemplation for a few moments while she mulled over the day's events in her mind. Giacomo is the embodiment of evil. Not a creature to be dealt with lightly. We are going to have to be extremely careful.
Dalia nodded, listening to Tobi while guiding Teak through the streets so as to avoid all of the people returning home or heading out for a night of rabble-rousing at a tavern. What do you think about his . . . idea about Eowyn? Dalia continued mentally to avoid attracting attention from the passers-by.
Again, Tobi paused to gather her thoughts and review the day. By this time, Dalia had sighted the inn they were staying at. From what I can gather from Giacomo, he truly believes Eowyn
to be one of his kind . . . a demon. While we were talking with Eowyn, she remained very mentally closed off. The only time I really got anything from her was when you asked about
her connection to Giacomo. Her guard was lowered temporarily, and all I could read from her was pure revulsion. To her, the idea of being "connected" to Giacomo in any way is
unbelievable and an insult to her for anyone to even suggest it.
Dalia dismounted and walked Teak into the stables. She used the time it took to remove the saddle and give Teak a little
rubdown to think over Tobi's words. I truly didn't mean to insult her in anyway . . . but I am terribly afraid of that creature. They both made their way into the inn, not bothering to stop for supper. Mounting the back stairs to their room, Dalia fought the urge to let loose the tears she could feel building within her. She quickly unlocked the door and closed it behind Tobi.
Not bothering to undress, she curled up into a ball on the bed. "What are we going to do?" Dalia wailed, losing the battle with herself and letting the tears flow freely.
Tobi jumped onto the bed and nuzzled Dalia's forehead. Just rest for tonight, love. Things will look better in the morning. Tobi curled up beside Dalia's head, a ragged purr rumbling from her chest in an effort to soothe them both to sleep.
Gerere lightly landed on the windowsill outside the seekers room, looking right then left to make sure he was unseen. Satisfied, the dragonet rapped on the window, awakening those inside. Seeing the movement from within, Gerere scampered up to the overhang and concealed himself there.
The pecking noise at the window was slow to rouse Dalia from sleep, but Tobi was another matter. Her ears turned toward the sound, then she raised her eyes to the window in time to
catch a glimpse of a purple lizard-like tail disappear. With her ears pinned flat against her head, Tobi's low rumbling growl and hiss finally promted Dalia into action.
"Wha . . .?" she mumbled, still half asleep. "Tobi, what is it?" she asked while throwing off the covers and scrambling for her sword.
It's that damned hellion dragonet!
As the impact of the words sunk in, Dalia quaked with fear as she moved to the window. Is Giacomo with him?, she asked.
No, but that doesn't mean he isn't close behind. Dalia was calmed somewhat, but her hand was still shaky as she reached to release the latch and swing the window open.
She quickly backed away, nearly tripping over Tobi in the process. A few seconds later, the purple dragonet flew in and landed on the inner window sill. It's funny, Dalia 'spoke to Tobi, he looks so much like Delius. If I didn't know who he belonged to, I would think him harmless.
Tobi's tail lashed violently from side to side as she responded with a spitting hiss and another growling meow. Looks can be deceiving. You of all people should know that.
Dalia slowly nodded in agreement, turning her attention once more to the dragonet at the window. "Well little one," she sighed, "at least this time you don't have to frighten my horse
to get my attention. What have you come for now?"
Gerere hopped into the room and began to slink around sniffing here and there. "My master sent me to learn what you have learned."
Dalia raised an eyebrow in surprise and lowered her sword. "So you talk? Good, that makes things easier on all of us." She heaved a great sigh before continuing. "As to what I have
learned . . . not as much as your master might hope." Dalia sat on the edge of the bed. Tobi hopped up beside her and Dalia stroked her fur to comfort them both. "All I have learned
from Eowyn is that she feels completely repulsed by the idea of being connected to your master in any way whatsoever."
Gerere looked up form his prowling the room. "Is that it?"
Dalia kept a wary eye on Gerere's exploring. "She was very mentally closed off to any contact, so it was next to impossible to learn much from her."
Gerere shook his scaly head. "And are you surprised? Don't tell me she has you convinced?"
At this, Dalia wavered. How much should I tell him, love? she spoke to Tobi.
Don't say more than you have to, but be honest. You know you must, so there's no point in trying to do otherwise.
Dalia sighed and considered her words before speaking. "I must be honest, even with you. Neither of you has convinced me of much." Dalia paused, Should I tell him? Tobi didn't respond mentally, but her slight head dip gave Dalia her answer. "I am surprised at the amount of mental control she has, though. Remarkable."
Gerere paused and seemed to think on this fact very carefully. "I know you are young and inexperienced in the world, but you must not trust her. She is playing a dangerous game here, one that could very well mean your end."
Dalia's hold involuntarily tightened around Tobi, who's eyes widened in protest, and both tried not to show fear. "Let me ask you this," Dalia said with more bravery than she felt,
"what has you so convinced she is kin to your master? Tell me, and you may convince me as well."
Gerere gave a slight shrug. " 'Cause he believes." He eyed her carefully for a second, then countered, "What makes you believe she is not?"
Dalia was slightly taken aback by the question and pondered a moment.
Just say what you believe, dearest. came Tobi's mental reassurance. "I never said I believed her. I said I had
yet to be convinced one way or the other."
That oughta starch his scales. Tobi said smugly.
She had visibly calmed, but the interaction was beginning to wear Dalia down.
Gerere hopped up on the bed and stared directly into Dalia's eyes with his own multi-faceted gaze. "You're a pawn to her, you know that?"
Dalia couldn't help wavering slightly, but she returned the stare. "And how do I know Giacomo isn't using me the same way?"
The colors seem to swirl in his unblinking eyes. "You could have been, but we chose to be open with you and not hide what we are. We could have done so if it was our desire."
Dalia finally broke off the hypnotic stare and looked to Tobi for comfort. "I have no doubt of that, little one." Should I tell him that we are meeting with Eowyn again?
Tobi flicked her tail back and forth a few times while considering their options. Go ahead. Maybe we can get him to volunteer some more information.
"I am supposed to meet her again tomorrow. Perhaps I will discover more."
Gerere shook his head. "Dangerous. If she suspects you, we cannot protect you."
Dalia nodded slowly, a single silent tear rolling down her cheek. "I know," she whispered.
He put a claw on her arm in an effort to comfort her. "Should not have involved you. Perhaps it is better you do not go."
Dalia wiped her cheek and stared resolutely at her lap. "That is a risk I'm willing to take." She looked at Gerere again. "Surprising that a demonic creation is capable of compassion."
Gerere looked up at her. "It is true that evil is my master's nature, not by choice, but his nature still, cursed as all his kind are. But there is no darkness completely devoid of light. We can be kind at moments, although admittedly more to achieve our own agendas, but true compassion is not unknown--rare but not unheard of. After all, my master saved me from death and gave me rebirth."
Dalia smiled at him softly. "Well, that is good to know, little one." She resisted the urge to reach out and pat his head.
He hopped down and scampered to the window. "Remember what I said. She is planning something, and will not think twice about sacrificing you," he paused to look at each of them individually, "either of you."
Dalia nodded slowly. "I will keep that in mind, thank you."
"Be careful when you listen to her as you are wary of what me and my master say," Gerere said over his shoulder before disappearing into the city.
Continue to Part 3