"Those are my Sisters, and we are all part of a group. Do not be bothered, tonight is a celebration of Spring," she placed the bottle back on the shelf. "I am sorry for the distraction, they understand my having duties here."
She could see that some of what he had said was painful, and had no wish to pry. Sometimes, a good listener knew when to do just that, and let the other go on in good time.
"Among them, there is always family and acceptance. They are all the family I have here, and anywhere, at any time, I can depend on them. Gal would say, 'Find love where you can, and be damned the bigots'," she blushed deep blue. "Gal has little patience with the small-minded."
She hovered between several patrons, never totally leaving his space, being ready to listen if he chose to speak. One of the important points the Sisters believed in was that everyone deserved acceptance, as their varied appearances spoke.
((OOC: Magnus, please read the short discussion Nar and Gertrude had, otherwise I will get hate mail for filling up space. Pretend he overheard the conversation with Hand, but don't worry, there is more info coming! Suspense is killing me....))
["Well, that must have gone well," Beth caught Manion's attention. "Gypsy's back in the kitchen, and I don't think I have ever seen her sweat like that."]
Manion looked up again and laughed. "How do you keep doing that? I have yet to see you coming over."
["Martin stuck Candice in the bar, she screwed up two orders already, and he won't have her being near the Sisters.]
"I'll have to thank Martin for that later." He said with a smile.
"And yes I am a little curious about the group..." He paused, not wanting to seem intrusive or rude, and he wasn't sure what questions to ask anyway. These women were obviously part of a tightly knit and closely guarded group, and Manion wasn't the type to just walk up and start asking questions.
((OOC: Arggh! Must... know... more... but... wont... ask... lol ok this suspense is just harsh, oooh to change my personality for just one post. 
))
"I've been learning from Martin, he can sneak up on the wind. Oh, and don't thank him, that's one of those things, he'd probably just put her on your table again. He's a sort of twisted humor." Her mouth puckered, drawing her face in imitation of the Maitre 'd's sour expression.
"Gal's one of them, and her partner Sibling. Have you met Sib yet? They haven't been in lately, not since open," she thought for a moment, not willing to get into that arrangement. "I honestly don't know a whole lot about it, they don't speak about it a lot, but anytime a Sister comes in...Sister, that's what they call each other. Anyway, when they meet, there's usually some formality, bowing and greetings. It seems very traditional.
"The ones with the skirts, I've seen one of two of them before, they come by the Mission and talk to Sibling. This must be some of their leaders. Narshawn and Gal wear blue robes sometimes, and I've seen Gypsy in white once, Sibling wears green. I think that means they are high ranking, but the one with the cane I recognize from a photo." She thought for a moment, hand on chin as she watched the woman in question laugh with several of the younger women at the other table over a joke.
"I think her name is Anvil, she was in the Rikti War, along with the masked woman. I know her, Lady Gemini. She's related to Narshawn somehow. You almost need a program to figure some of this." With the arrival of the large party, most of the room seemed to be sedate, and Beth could spend some time at Manion's table. She would mention something germane to dinner now and then, bring water, make it look like she was working.
Martin breezed by at one point, "Taking care of the customers, Beth, very good." He slyly nodded and walked away, never approaching the tables of Ladies. When something was needed, one of the women in green uniform would rise and make her way to the kitchens returning with it.
((OOC: Suspense? You think it's hard for you, try having a whole table full of stories and no one asking! Actually, thank you all for playing to my ego, I don't want to monopolize the thread, lol. This is so much fun...))
Falcon stood beside the table, looking at the woman near her table. Her accent, and the almond eyes... she didn't know many people with almond eyes, but could this one be the japanese lady she dined with two evenings before? Perhaps the mask was meant to keep her identity secret.
She extended her left hand too, to take the one offered to her, and nodded.
"If my presence is wished for, I will gladly come."
Her eagerness was mirrored by her eyes, but her gestures remained graceful. She adjusted her sword on her shoulder, and followed the other woman...
[OOC oh thank Gaia, Falcon will be able to do something even if she is not the prying type 
]
Manion laughed as Beth did her impression of Martin. "He better not go back on putting her in there. Now that you're here, I won't be so quick to offer myself up as the lamb again." He said that in such a way that it would be a compliment to Beth more than an insult to Candice.
After listening to Beth's description of the group he replied. "No I haven't met Sibling yet. I had a feeling that Gypsy and Narshawn were part of the group... Sisters I guess I should call them. I saw them greet the first group when they came in and kinda guessed by the way they were acting."
Manion was glad things had calmed down a bit. Even if Beth couldn't sit and talk it was nice to have her stop by every now and then.
The dinner was great as always. The goulasch was spicier than the last time he had tried it, but he liked it. He would have to make sure and mention that the next time he ordered it.
"So, you in the mood for pie again tonight?" he asked during one of her stops to the table. "I know its still early, but I thought I would give Gypsy a little heads up. I don't want to get her backed up in there."
((OOC: Playing to your ego? Well, of course! And hard for you? Maybe Im just being too subtle, but Manion's got a story too ya know. 
I could just crowbar it in somewhere, but I'd rather keep waiting for a spot where it can slip into the thread all natural like. Wait, please don't take that the wrong way, Im in no hurry and having a great time. 
))
"I am Lady Gemini," she spoke in greeting, "and you are Falcon Kitiara. I know of you....by another." She did not outright state that they had met, but implied it. From her experience with this woman, she expected that Falcon was very quick-witted and would make the connection.
"My Sisters and I, we come to celebrate this day," she turned and guided Falcon to the group. There was apparently some ongoing joke between several of the women, they bantered back and forth while the rest listened and smiled.
"...and I say to you again, he was skilled in more than one kind of magic." The speaker quieted as Gemini and Falcon approached, but several of the ladies at the table snickered and the one she spoke to blushed through her pale skin.
"I come with a friend, one who wears a blade," this met several appreciative glances, but the comments stopped. Everyone centered in their chair, presenting a proper face for someone not of the group. "Miss Falcon Kitiara."
She uttered a few words not in English, and this caused some exchange of looks. One woman dressed in a simple shirt and heavy pants, rolled over the top of sturdy boots, moved her chair back and stood. At the other table, one of the blue robed youth instinctively stood as well, only Lady Tre's motion with a hand caused her to sit again.
"Of the Wilds, she calls you. You have the look of the forest, but I'd dare say you look poorly used. You should be enjoying some hospitality." The woman spoke frankly, a lilt in her voice and sparkle in her eyes. Her face was weathered, with the marks of years in the sun, but could have been Mediterranean. Squint lines webbed out from her bright eyes as she smiled.
"Gracious child, sit! Few of the Sisters will bite," this drew laughter from one or two, and an actual growl from one in a skirt. On closer look, her long, reddish hair barely covered ears set high on her head, wolflike. "No need for offense, Lupa. Take my chair," she motioned for Falcon to sit, holding the seat back.
"I am Lady Thorn, but only Sisters use the 'Lady' part. Botany and plants are my specialty." Her tone and manners were those of a grandmother, kind and gentle. You could almost imagine her insisting you have another piece of cake, or stay and talk another ten minutes. Her grey hair was neat and combed, framing her wizened face.
"Lady Almira asks if you would spare a moment, share a glass of wine, and Sharon admires your sword." She pointed to two women, the one called Almira wore a hood and face veil of a solid green material, obscuring everything below her solid black eyes. The other woman, Sharon, had two decorative short swords hung on her chair.
When Sharon stood, recognizing Falcon's invitation, the swords rose with her, actually in some sort of harness. She had a wild look in her eyes, shining even in the dim light. Almost tar colored skin, long arms with corded muscle and a skirt barely long enough to be decent in public, she was the image of an Amazon in black.
"Finally," she smiled wide, "someone with taste in weapons." Her accent was peculiar English, clipped.
((OOC: Sharon is modeled on Grace Jones and Thorn is very grandmotherly. She let's the young get away with things, a balance for Gemini, who does not. If Falcon wants to sit down, there will be conversation aplenty, if she prefers to dine alone, the group will understand, but she seems very much like them in her actions.))
As Lady Gemini approached Falcon's table, Beth waved with one hand. "Good evening, Miss Gemini."
"Child," the taller woman nodded in her direction. "Be well," and continued to meet Falcon, returning from elsewhere.
"Oh," she turned back to Manion, "I don't think it will be much busier tonight, and the women in the skirts serve all the food and drinks for the Sisters. It's weird, and I've even heard Gal wonder at how they figure who orders who around.
"Pie? Is that an offer, Mister Manion? Now I've stood here babbling about them and you haven't said much of anything! Did you like the food?"
Beth was hoping that on one night off she could actually sit and talk over dinner with Manion. He was so sweet, she felt embarrassed that he had to come in for dinner to talk to her. Then she blushed, maybe he was coming in just to talk to her!
((OOC: Oh, swoon. Who's fighting crime while Manion is wooing Beth? She'll ask for his story, but doesn't want to be rude.))
((OOC: Aah good question. I tried explaining that in a previous post. Basically Manion works his assignments from his contacts during the day, and has lately been taking the evenings off at the advice of his mentor Gilidry. Beth has just given him another reason to take that advice instead of blowing it off like he was doing before. What started as him just taking a break has turned into something unexpected. You tryin to say hes spending too much time here? Also, Im not trying to rush anything, he'll get to it when he gets to it. I was just teasing a little, sorry. ))
"The food was excellent. The spices Gypsy used were just right, although I can see why Gal might have her tone down on them a bit."
"And yes that was an offer Miss Beth. Not only do I enjoy the food, I also enjoy the company if you don't mind my saying. Gives me something to look forward to after a long day of helping out my contacts with their assignments. Now I know we just did this last night, but until a better plan comes along where I can get you to sit when you babble, then I'll just stick with what's worked so far."
"Now what else would you like me to say?" he asked with a broad grin.
She listened intently as Gertrude answered her questions about the Gathering... She herself had not been involved in the Rikti War, although several other members of her Order had been... They had lost several members during those days, and they were still spoken of with remembrance. But this sisterhood, The Sisters, their actions and overall bearing spoke well of them; it was hard to find groups or organizations such as they.
As Narshawn came over and took up the telling, she flashed a quick smile at Gertrude, who left to help out elsewhere in the bar. Then she turned attention back to Narshawn, as she explained the basics of The Sisters; the ranks, what they did, and even who some of their members were. When Narshawn spoke of being of a faith, motioning to her headdress, she nodded... Her mentor always chided her for being too curious about other faiths, but she thought that it was good to know the people that you have helped or may one day help. And being a healer, she sometimes helped a strange variety of people.
When Narshawn made the offer to introduce her to her Mother, Lady Gemini, she jumped at the chance... Perhaps today was getting better; having to be rezzed twice in one day had made for an awful beginning, but the opportunity to learn more about The Sisters, and being able to meet people like she had found in this place, was definetely turning it to the better.
"Yes, please. I would be honored to meet your Mother, Lady Gemini. And, yes, I too am of a faith... I am called a Hand in my order, The Path of Ma'at."
TOONS: COH: Hand of Ma'at, Voltrana, Eve of All Hallows, Fith-Fath, Miss Sonic, Dame Death, Corporate Shadow /// COV: Sister Skull, NyghtShayde, Mourning Gory, Mistress Mayham, Lady StormDancer
SERVER: Justice (Main SG: The Honor Guards) (Main VG: The Chaos Corps)
GLOBAL: LadyStormDancer
"I suppose it's the twenty-first century, so I'll say it," she rolled her eyes in mock exasperation, "I'm off on Thursday, and if you are coming in anyway, will you have dinner with me?"
She rushed it out, growing red near the end. He had walked her home, so he knew she didn't live high, he came to see her night after night. She knew he was a hero, she had seen his ID, but he still seemed more interested in her than in the more exotic people.
She leaned over, both hands on the table, get it over with.
((OOC: Ha, women's rights and liberation!))
"Uh... I..." he scratched his head, and his mouth hung open a little. "I was gonna get to that, honest. I was just gonna wait til later when you were off the clock, really." It was his turn to blush, this was another first for him. He had been waiting for a good moment to ask her when she had off, but she beat him to it.
"But to answer your question directly, yes. I will come in Thursday to have dinner with you. Just tell me when and where I should meet you and I'll be there."
He had composed himself and his open mouth turned into another sly smile. "There, now that I've ansered your question, I'm still waiting for an answer to mine."
He crossed his arms, resting his elbows on the table, and leaned over looking her in the eyes in mock defiance.
((OOC: Bah... just couldn't wait could ya? ))
Now Narshawn's brows rose, a faith she was not familiar with. Her field of study was language, and somewhat faiths, since the two were closely related. She dropped to the floor, barely tall enough to see the top of the bar and waved Hand to come along.
"I would be as interested in your faith, and you will find several Sisters as well. We focus on knowledge, learning and trying not to judge. So long as you believe in goodness and honor, we will agree on many things." She could see that Lady Gemini had another woman with the Sisters, the one who had eaten with Mr. Broady. It would be a night of stories, a good time to be near the Circle.
"These women are known as The Circle, the leadership body of the Order. You see only nine, but there are ten, the oldest of The Sisters is The Lady. She leaves The Island almost never, and she is the most powerful, and respected." Her voice was reverent. They came close to the table, two of the Guard on the way to the kitchen.
"Mistress Narshawn," one of the women addressed her, she was very pale and very blonde, the green of her tunic stark against her northern features, "you bring a welcome guest. I admired her posture from the moment we arrived, and hoped she would find opportunity to come closer. I have a wager to settle with O," she placed a hand on her neighbor's shoulder. Several of the Sisters turned to see the newcomer.
"Lady Waspe," pronounced whas-pey, "please meet Hand of Ma'at, and Hand of Ma'at, please meet Lady Waspe..." she introduced several others. The neighbor was Lady Osmella, both of the Guard. Lady Gemini, Thorn, Beatrix the fire blaster, Anvil the Tank and Almira, who had not spoken yet.
"Lady Almira does not speak, do not take offense." As each was introduced, they held out a palm in greeting, not indicating touch was accepted. It seemed that each of the Circle had a Guard, and that they all complimented each other's powers.
"Be Welcome, both Falcon Kitiara and Hand of Ma'at. You are welcome in the Circle for this evening." Rumbled Lady Anvil, her voice deep and resonating, her smile slow but warm.
"This is my Mother, Lady Gemini," Narshawn introduced the veiled woman with the katana, who had to look up into the dark woman's face. Her smile or frown could not be seen, but her eyes bore greeting and her words as well.
"Do not be put off by my Sisters," she spoke with a noticeable accent, glaring at the light-skinned woman who smiled back. "Some of them are rather...uncultured. Be welcome, as Lady Anvil says, and at ease."
((OOC: Hand, in your court, but I would like to hear your story as well. The Sisters have no need to convert anyone, and will not push their views. Everyone is right, if they believe they are, and the Sisters truly seek knowledge and story. ))
Falcon followed Lady Gemini to the table; at first, she had wondered if her sword would've been seen with suspicion or hostility, as if she was implying that she didn't trust the Sisters' group. So the tension in her muscles melted away when she saw that it wasn't so; not only that, but their glances seemed appreciative as soon as they heard that she had a blade with her.
Kitiara looked at the women with a hint of curiosity in her eyes, but also a slight wild shyness, like a wolf adventuring inside unknown territory; she took the chair that was offered to her, thanking the group with a silent nod.
"Thank you for your invite. I'm pleased to meet you... all of you."
She quickly looked behind, to see if Lady Thorn had found another chair for herself.
"A glass of wine would be fine.. thank you."
While they handed the glass to Falcon, she said, after a bit of uncertainty:
"Lady Gemini has already stated my name, and, as you probably have guessed, my specialty is sword fighting, although I can handle myself with fists if so needed. I don't have a formal knowledge in botany, but I am very fond of trees and can recognize many since I grew up inside a wood." she turned toward Sharon, and smiled, a bit less shyly; she wasn't sure what to talk about with these women, she knew nothing about their order and their customs, what if she would unwillingly offend them? She hoped it wouldn't came to pass, they seemed to be very interesting people, and she didn't want to blow out the conversation.
But her sword, yes, this was something she knew well and could talk about.
"Do you like swords too? A lot of people I've met have said that it's a heavy weapon, and some people I've fought with have even suggested I swap it with a katana, but I find its weight to be just right for my arm; I tried an undead-slaying axe some weeks ago, and (after my sword) it was the better weapon I've ever wielded."
She brought her hand to her sheath.
"Would you like to see it?"
[OOC ah well, I was slower to answer this time. Must be getting old :P ]
When Hand of Ma'at arrived at the table, as stranger to the Sisters' as she was judging by the way she was looking at the robed women's faces, Falcon turned toward her and offered her her right hand. No long formulas, nor formal greetings. Just her right hand, a timid smile and a "Falcon Kitiara."
Lady Thorn did not look for a chair, and no Sister made to get up for her. Placing one hand on the floor, and bending quickly for a woman who looked to be well past prime, she slowly drew her hand up. The floor appeared attached, a shaft of wood rising to stay in contact. At the height she wished, she curved her hand, making a circling motion. The wood spread and formed a seat. None of the others even spared a second glance, they were already speaking, in turn, to Falcon and Hand. Thorn settled and leaned closer.
"The introductions are made," started the one called Tre, seeming to be one of the more forward Sisters. "If Mistress Narshawn serves her Mother well," the look in her eyes said she expected this would be true, "you have some idea who we are, of the Order.
"Normally, there would be ceremony, the Mistresses and Initiates would serve the Ladies, as has been for centuries. We observe many protocols, but do not expect those not of the Order to do so. Tonight, however, we are a village, and all are equal." She motioned to the other table, where the blue and white attired sat.
"We are a family, every Sister knowing another, but of all cultures. Lady Osmella and Lady Thorn come from the North of Europe and bring customs, as I bring my own. We each have something to teach, and much to learn." This brought some murmurs of assent, heads nodding, even among the Guard.
"So, when you sit with us, you bring your customs, your wisdom, which can only make us wiser. Observe your native lessons, tell us of your homes and family, as you will. I am certain we can learn from you, and the Sister's friendship lasts a long time."
She smiled around the table, raising her glass of a yellow juice in salute to the two visitors. Each Sister raised their own glass. One Sister gazed longingly at Kitiara's sword, she wore two on her back, much shorter.
"Will you tell me of your blade, of the crafting and wielding?" She spoke softly after the toast, and Falcon would notice that she had only three fingers on her right hand, the two middle ones missing. Her dark skin was scarred where they had been, but the wound was old.
((OOC: They will ask you questions too, Hand, as soon as I know how you would react. The conversation is light, this is not an interrogation. ))
Falcon Kitiara watched the creation of a new chair with genuine amazement; this wasn't simple botany, this was magic! She had seen lots of heroes using their magic powers to create elemental forces. Fire to hurt, ice to freeze, electricity to stun, energy to maim, but this was the first time she saw magic used for something different than battles.
Maybe this was the reason why Thorn's magic seemed to her much more "magical" than the purely destructive ones. It seemed so... natural; not so different from the simple growth of a flower in a meadow. And yet, there was magic in both.
"Protocol knowledge is not my best asset, I must admit... So I'm glad to be able to talk with you as an equal, as well as being able to share what I know, little as it may be".
She handed out her sword, still sheathed, to the Sister admiring it.
"Of the crafting of this sword, I don't know much. She... no, it, is the legacy of my father, and he never talked about it; he only told me about it when it was too late to ask any questions. My knowledge about crafting is limited to the basic skills to keep her in top shape. I would never want it to rust or lose its edge. Another sword wouldn't do... It's this sword I feel tied to."
She sipped the wine, then went on, fighting between the wish for detailing and the shyness to avoid talking too much (if there was such a thing here). Falcon was aware that she was sometimes calling her sword a "she" instead of a "it", but it was her instinct to do so. She felt that, somehow, it wasn't wrong to call the sword a "she".
[OOC: Sibling, give me a hint about the sisters' desires. Should she go into details (thus giving me the opportunity for a good story, albeit perhaps a bit long) or should she resume the story in 5 - 6 lines? I ask because it wouldn't be cool for her to tell a long tale while the sisters' aren't willing to listen to it, or for her to speak one or two lines when the sisters' are really wishing to hear more from her. ]
"Please, go on," Lady Sharon pleaded. "Our history is of stories. PLease." Others took up the chorus.
((OOC: Descibe to your hearts content, we have all night! ))
She bowed low in acceptance of the others' welcome, and gave a brief, although warm, smile to Falcon Kitiara; yet another who appeared to be an outsider of the Circle, learning as she was.
She touched the striking serpeant on her headdress with the index and middle finger of her right hand, and then formally introduced herself...
"Good evening, all. I am called a Hand of Ma'at, one who serves the Egyptian Goddess, and follows in her Path. I am most interested in your Sisterhood; call it simple curiousity, but I hunger to know of those with whom I might fight against disorder and evil with..."
(((OOC: My apologies; hope I"m not stepping on Kitiara's toes with this post!)))
TOONS: COH: Hand of Ma'at, Voltrana, Eve of All Hallows, Fith-Fath, Miss Sonic, Dame Death, Corporate Shadow /// COV: Sister Skull, NyghtShayde, Mourning Gory, Mistress Mayham, Lady StormDancer
SERVER: Justice (Main SG: The Honor Guards) (Main VG: The Chaos Corps)
GLOBAL: LadyStormDancer
[OOC don't worry Ma'at, one of the amazing things about play by forum is the way we can make 2 posts at the same time, and just assume that in game they took place one after another. So the sisters will be able to answer you and listen me without problems ]
Kitiara thought for a second: there were many stories that she could tell about the sword. She decided to tell the first one, it was a fond memory for her, after all.
She leaned toward, arms on the table, as if whispering a secret to an old friend, but her voice was firm.
"First of all, you will hear many times my voice calling the sword a "she". I will explain the reason for it later."
"My father had put this sword inside a cave for me. I went inside the cave, nothing more than a twelve years' old, frightened and unsure about what to do; my parents... had just died, and I had found a message from him telling me to retrieve the sword from the cave.
I was already frightened before entering the dark cave, and was even more so after I went in; I remember that it was damp, and cold, and the walls were dripping. That wasn't like the banished pantheon and devouring earth tunnels, whose crystals shed light on the paths; it was a regular cave, but it certainly didn't seem so at that time. Sure, my body was stronger and more athletic than a regular 12-years old, thanks to the training I had undergone, but I was a child nonetheless.
I arrived at the end of the tunnel, in a big cavern; the luminescent crystals I have so often seen in Paragon City's caves were scattered everywhere, shedding light on a beautiful little subterranean waterfall. The water from the waterfall collected in a small lake, brightly colored in all shades of green and purple, because there were other crystals inside the pool; and the waves made the light breathe and move as if it was alive."
She had none of the mannerisms of a professional storyteller, but her words were true and felt, a weave of emotions and memories. She wasn't only talking, she was also living again her story.
"I saw something glittering in the pool, just under the waterfall. To reach for it, I had to walk right under the waterfall, getting soaking wet in the process; the sword was caged inside an ovoidal casing, made with the same crystals that were shining all around me. She sparkled and shimmered, her steel blade reflecting every single ray of light that touched her, and amplifying, refracting it like a prism, projecting on my outstretched hands all the colors of a rainbow."
Her fingers slightly moved on the glass of wine, echoing that outstretching movement.
"I removed her from her cage, and the moment my hands touched her metal, I saw the runes along her blade lighting with a fiery glow, and pulsating at the same pace of my heart beat: you can see it even now in the sword you keep in your hands, her runic red pulse is my heart pulse. I felt... No, I knew, from that moment, that this sword was destined to me. I couldn't separate from her, no more than I could separate from an arm or a leg; I didn't have a sheath, so I just held her in my arms while I went out of the cave.
But there is no mercy in nature for a twelve years old, not if that child is wandering in the scandinavian woods near nightfall, soaked with water and scarcely clothed. I was freezing and already my body was becoming numb, I had no more home to return to.
And then I saw the bear."
She drank her wine and tried to find the right words to describe what her eyes had seen.
"Well... He was a great male brown bear. Probably upset that I stumbled on his territory; he roared, standing on his hind legs, but I was too frightened to run away. I had no place to run to.
Then he attacked. It was all a blur from that moment: his fur; my hands, stilll holding the sword, held up in front of my face to protect me from the impact; the sword cutting the bear's skin, his muscles, lacerating him a lung and the left side of the heart; a spray of blood showering me and the bear almost falling down on me.
This was the first time I have ever killed, and it was... against my will. I held up my hands just to brace from the impact, never thinking I would have been able to kill him; he was so big and powerful, I couldn't believe I was still alive.
But his death meant life for me. I used my sword to take the skin of the bear, cloaked inside it, ate his raw liver, and found his lair, where his female was still sleeping, lethargic. I passed my first night alone there, lying against the side of the she-bear; I think she didn't wake up because she smelled her mate on me, since I was covered in his skin."
"The following morning I went out of the bear cave; I was more confident, because I had managed to survive the night, and to kill a prey so big just when I thought I would've become a prey myself. The first thing I did was going back to the bear's corpse, so frozen from the bitter cold of the night that I found it perfectly conserved, and I sliced his meat in thin strips that I put on a green wood fire to dry and smoke; it lasted me for many days, and I ... am grateful to that bear, without him I wouldn't be alive today.
From then on, I focused on surviving, living of nature and inside it, as much a part of it as every other beast of the woods - and learning to wield my blade every day better than the day before; sometimes I wonder, if I managed to eviscerate a fully grown bear when I barely had the strenght to lift my sword toward it, what could I do to a human body, now that I am fully grown and developed my strenght, if I hit him to kill, instead of simply wounding and stunning.
But needless killing is murder, and I don't want to become as bad as the criminals I fight."
She breathed deeply, letting the memory go, and wetting her lips with a glass of apple cider. Her eyes were focused on Sharon, and her missing fingers; she was sure that behind that wound there had to be an interesting story as well. Perhaps it was her love for weapons that brought her that wound?
"Another woman of faith," Anvil's baritone rumbled, "welcome to our gathering. I believe that you will be hauling water Lady Waspe." Her smile hinted at some private delight, and the blonde Lady that had spoken earlier grinned. The one named Osmella pressed one elbow into her neighbor, savoring some joke.
"Indeed Mother, O seems to get the better of many wagers. I would expect her to, being a Mind Controller, but I continue in my wicked ways." A few of the women chuckled, even some at the other table, listening intently. "Do not be offended, Hand of Ma'at, my Sister and I regularly bet on odd things." She offered a small bow in contrition, hoping not to offend.
"I have not experienced this faith. We learn that all who follow a path, no matter the name or destination, follow their belief, and this is sacred. The name you call your faith means little, if you believe in it enough. The Lady teaches that none of us," she swept a hand at the Sisters, not including the two newcomers, "know the truth, we seek it as we can. Do not be shy here, we are all Sisters. What would you tell us? What would you teach us?"
Interested eyes gazed from all corners, a total lack of scorn or judgement. These women did not know the truth, they only followed their hearts, and that path led to truth.
((OOC: No judgements, and they will answer any questions you have about them. They are quiet in their devotion, do not seek recruits, but always trying to learn about others. Maybe there is wisdom in other's beliefs?))
A smile touched her lips... Yes, this was truly a Sisterhood, even down to the wagers on odd things... She took a seat before speaking further; besides the fact that she knew her height made conversations somewhat awkward, she was still tired from her exploits earlier that day, although her mind was much more awake now than it had been. She gathered her thoughts before speaking...
"It is true; names are only names, unless there is meaning behind them. Those who follow the path I do strive to find the meaning, the truth, in all things. "Ma'at" actually implies two things; the name of our Goddess, and all that she stands for. "Ma'at" is what the ancients called justice, or order; it is what is right, and what things should be. The Goddess Ma'at is the Goddess of Truth, Justice, and Order. She wears an ostrich feather; at our death, our hearts our weighed against that feather on the Scales of Life. If our heart is light, we pass into paradise. If it is heavy, then we are condemned. All of the ancient Pharoahs strived to maintain ma'at throughout their reign."
She paused, taking another drink from the glass in her hand.
"But, it is what we do in life that determines our end, and so I, and my brethren, strive to learn what we can, and do what we can, so that we might help others and help keep the balance... Order, if you will. We are from a small temple, and those in our order come from many walks of life. As you can see", And here she made a sweeping gesture, taking in her whole appearance,"we are not afraid of strangeness, and instead embrace it. Most of us were considered cast-offs in our societies; the Order took us in, and if we were so minded, we could stay with them and learn. In return, we have gained a family, a purpose, and training in our chosen arts. I am a healer, and so have been trained in that fashion, so that I may help others."
She paused, then continued. "Perhaps that is what has brought several of us here to Paragon City; there is so much life, and yet so much evil. The need to keep the balance, to bring those to justice that need to be, is a driving force for us... I, however, have also come seeking truth; about myself, other people, and of what my ultimate purpose is..."
As she finished speaking, she looked around at the others in the group, wondering if she'd spoken too much. It was probably the most she'd ever spoken to anyone at any one time since she'd left the temple...
TOONS: COH: Hand of Ma'at, Voltrana, Eve of All Hallows, Fith-Fath, Miss Sonic, Dame Death, Corporate Shadow /// COV: Sister Skull, NyghtShayde, Mourning Gory, Mistress Mayham, Lady StormDancer
SERVER: Justice (Main SG: The Honor Guards) (Main VG: The Chaos Corps)
GLOBAL: LadyStormDancer
"You must have loved your parents," said Lady Thorn, lending her sympathy with her tone. In some cultures, physical contact was discouraged, and not knowing Falcon's beliefs, none of them would violate her personal space. "To be alone at such a young age, would be difficult." Some heads nodded, the table of younger Sisters had grown quiet.
"A tale worthy of greatness," stated Lady Sharon, the darkest skin at the table, perhaps, beside Hand. "Legends tell us that those bound for glory are often tied by great tragedy. The Sisters would offer you our sympathy on your loss, and I would offer you praise at what you have achieved. Your parents must have been strong people."
The two Sisters carrying the trays of food had arrived, and the plates were distributed, serving the Circle first, then the Guard and the blue and white robes in turn. All the plates were the same, except for portions. Simple foods, a small piece of baked fish, rice, lentils, some greens and a bowl of sharp smelling sauce. Bread arrived in several bowls, and water in pitchers, though some Sisters had wine or other juices with their meals.
"If you have not yet eaten, you are welcome to share ours, or by your choice. We do not eat red meats or any creature that walks the land, but understand there are those that do." Lady Thorn said to the two as the meal was distributed. Once the plates had been laid, Lady Sharon spoke.
"I notice you look at my hand," she held up the hand missing fingers. "It is no embarrassment, and your tale deserves repayment, so." She spoke English, but the accent was not easily placed, and her sentences tended to end abruptly. Her dark face and eyes were clear and perfect, her lips and nose not typical for African. "I come from Kenya, and my tribe were warriors from long before any colony came there. We worshipped the Gods of the land and animals, who brought us food and gave us shelter. My mother was one of the healers of our area, and my father a respected man in the village, wise. My family could trace the healers back into history, my mother being one of the less talented. It was expected that I too would be a healer.
"Then colonists came to our village, and this when I was very small. A family of missionaries, coming to bring aid and medicine. They were untrusted and treated badly, considered foreigners, but they persisted. Our tribe warred with others, but we survived well and many were happy to live as we always had.
"This family had a daughter, almost my same age." She stopped in the telling, just paused, until the one with the strange ears sighed. An espression between exasperation and enjoyment crossed this woman's canine features, and her smile showed long teeth.
"You always leave it to me, don't you, Sharon?" Her tone was bored. "This daughter was named Clarissa, and the family tried to teach her that the natives were friendly. By this time, both girls were in their teens. The young native woman however, she did not care for the family at all, and one night, she prayed the some ill would befall the daughter, hoping to drive the family away. The Gods heard her, and fickle they can be.
"The young woman awoke at the next full moon, not a girl, but a leopard. A red leopard, which is a potent omen for that tribe. The leopard appeared in the village, and began to attack them. Only the duaghter who asked for the omen could see who the leopard truly was, and the beast knew her as well."
Sharon took up the tale, "I saw that the girl was tormented, and knew this was my doing. She would attack someone, then run in fear, as though she knew it was wrong. I had grown into a strong woman, running with the tribe and hunting, and wanted to atone for so terrible a deed.
"I ran into her path, she sprang. Somewhere in the fight..." she held up her hand again and flexed her remaining fingers. "Let us say that Lupa has very sharp teeth."
"I spit them out!" Lupa half-shouted, bringing laughs from several of the Guard. "The spell was broken, but I am still Were, half woman, half leopard. We have made up our differences, but my parents thought it best to place me with those who understood more about my condition." She motioned to Lady Thorn and Anvil.
"They have strengthened my discipline, and now I control my rage. Sharon 'protects' me, she sees it as her duty," there was a friendliness in her tone. It was apparent from the way they spoke that rivalry was between them, but not animosity.
"On an island, you do not carry grudges or anger. And you should know that war and fighting are not what we do." Shraon moitioned to the other table, and two girls in blue stood.
"Keisha, Madeliene, what do you study?" The first girl was pale brown but had striking blue eyes and dark, tightly curled hair; the second alabaster skin and reddish locks.
"Lady Sharon, I study metals and poems with Lady Gemini." Spoke the curly-haired one, quickly and matter-of-factly.
"I study architecture and math with Lady Tre, lady Sharon." The second girl had a gleam in her eye, smiling shyly at Falcon and blushing. They both sat down, turning away and giggling. They would have been 13 or 14 at most.
"You see, Miss Kitiara, we expect our daughters to be skilled in many things, least of all war. Killing is a poor teacher." She turned to her meal, watching how Falcon would react.
(OOC: Hey, no one knows who I am, but I'd like to try and join in on the fun. I haven't RP'd on these boards so I'm not fully aware of the rules. I hope no one minds that I use two characters. I will be doing things from Paravespula's First-person POV)
I had entered the building in a hurry. I was on patrol with my assigned partner, Legion, but we eventually got ambushed by a large group of Hellions. I was exhausted and bruised; I was also pretty sure that I was bleeding heavily somewhere.
"Hey, aren't you forgetting someone?"
Legion's deep voice caught me by surprise. I turned around to see him shut the door behind him. His crimson, metallic body was scratched, but not badly. Still, he was more energy depleted than I was from maintaining his body's armor integrity. His dark yellow visor was dimming in response to his low battery power, but he still had a good hour to run.
"So, where are we?" he asked.
I took a good look around me to get my bearings. I quickly took notice of the sign inside the entrance area.
"Hmm, Ladies of the Lake," I said with a grin, "Well, alright! Maybe we should stick around for a moment."
Legion looked at me, his hand gripping tightly onto the hilt of his favorite broadsword. A low growling noise could be heard.
"What? I'm hungry," I said, "and I'm pretty sure I'm bleeding somewhere."
"I'm a robot," he said menacingly, "and I'm low on power. Fulmino isn't going to teleport us this time and you'll be forced to drag a lifeless ton of steel through Atlas Park."
I gave him a curious look, forgetting that he couldn't see through my mask, "I thought you were able to process organic fuels?"
He scoffed, "Terribly inefficient, though I long for the day when it won't be."
"Yeah," I said forcefully, "but you can still use it to restore power. We've got the money, so we're eating. Deal with it."
With a mere thought, the nanobots that comprised my suit began to recede to reveal my casual suit. It didn't take long before I was in my usual red jacket, white shirt, and jeans. I always found my casual wear to be better suited for restaurants than my superhero costume.
"I still can't believe the company wasted so much money to give you that suit," Legion said, "Oh, and you're bleeding from your back."
Quickly taking off my jacket, I looked to see that the S insignia was stained in red.
"Well, so much for my fashion statement," I said, "but this can be cleaned and I heal real fast. I'm still going to get some food."
"Fine," Legion said in defeat, "but do you want to go to the bar or the restaurant?"
I quickly fished out my Hero ID from my jacket pocket before deciding to listen to the area. The powers I received from my own experimentation gave me an enhanced, though barely, sense of hearing. I could pick up on a few voices, but that was to be expected at a restaurant.
"I hope we can use the restaurant," I said finally, "I don't like bar room chairs."
"Alright," Legion said, a little more cheerful, "but remember, Snap, if anyone asks, my name is Sparx."
"I know," I said lightening up as he mentioned my nickname, "It does seem that having Legion for a name would be irritating."
(OOC: They do come off as a little obnoxious to each other, but situations have forced them together a lot. I promise to improve as I go along.)
Powersets I'd like to see:
Water or Wind-related powers (not just Storm Summoning)
More Minion-types
Demolitions Blast set (and maybe a Specialty Explosives Buff/Debuff) in tribute to the greatest explosives villain ever, Evil Midnight Bomber
"I loved them very much" answered Falcon to Thorn's words. "Their death was... unnecessary."
She had heard the warmth in Thorn's words; those words comforted her like a tender caress. She had lost her mother too soon, and sometimes she had a strong piercing desire of her mom's arms around her shoulders.
She smiled, thankfully, rotating the upper border of the glass between her left fingers.
"I am proud of the path I've chosen, and of myself as I am today. I just wish I had more time to spend with them."
"Your words are kind" said the warrior, bowing her head both toward Sharon and Thorn "I don't know if I am bound for glory, there are so many heroes in this city and sometimes glory seems a bit diluted. I try to do my best everyday, however. To soar high in the skies above eastgate heights, or watching the sun setting on Talos Island from above the golden clouds, is enough for me to be at peace."
She declined Thorn's offer with a voice sincerely thanking her. Both for the food offer and for the warmth in her previous words.
"I have already eaten, but I will gladly order a pint of apple cider to drink. the night is still young."
Then she listened Sharon's story; Falcon's eyes were fixed inside Sharon's and Lupa's eyes, she didn't listen with ears alone, but with her heart. And their expressions, from a little tension in the lips to a little arching of the eyebrow, could speak volumes. In the woods, she had learned to recognize fear, anger, hunger, curiosity, shyness, friendship and love in the animals' postures, eyes, fur, ears movement.
This was a bit like it.
She meditated on what she had heard. An interesting story. So, the two Sisters had managed to overcome their negative feelings; no doubt they had intense animosity between them in the past, but now it didn't seem to matter to them that Lupa had bitten off 2 fingers of Sharon, and that Sharon had condemned Lupa to such a curse.
An incredible feat. What would've she done to someone biting her off 2 fingers?
Most probably, she would have killed that someone.
She smiled to the second girl, then turned toward Lady Thorn, drinking a bit of cider before answering.
"My mother taught me lots of things that girls living in cities are supposed to know. Math, algebra, geometry, biology, physics, literature, foreign languages... basical culture things. My father taught me how to swim in the rivers, how to climb the highest trees, how to stalk a prey without being seen. I must admit, killing is something I have learned myself, when I was alone. Of course I only killed what I needed to feed myself, or to defend myself against attacking animals... but I admit that the main reason bringing me to retrieve my sword from the waterfall, and to train with it every day, six or seven hours a day, until my hands bled and my arms were numb, was revenge."
She knew that it wasn't a "politically correct" thing to say, but she didn't care, and she knew very little about politically correctedness anyway; it was the truth.
"The murder of my family gave me the drive to seek revenge, and develop the power and knowledge I needed to get that revenge. Without revenge in mind, without my wish to kill, my training would've been much less effective. I don't know how, but I am sure that my sword could... understand me, and wished for the same things that I did. She wanted to drink blood, and much of it. So many years, with only revenge in mind. Every night I woke up screaming, seeing again the bodies of my parents, and every day I daydreamed about what I would've done to them as soon as I could get my hands on them..."
Her red aura intensified for a moment and her eyes flared. It was better to avoid details... her teen years thoughts had been.. graphically intense, to say the least. Ferocious, and outright cruel, would've probably been a better definition.
"Then, when the moment came, when I faced my enemies, I probably was able to survive only because of that revenge instinct and the training it has provided me. Avoiding bullets, getting some without caring for the blood loss, that kind of things. Without revenge, I would've died there.
Revenge helped me to survive... even if in the end, I just turned my enemies to the police, without killing them. It's sad to say, but I am what I am now... along with my pride for being this way... only because my parents have died. Were they still alive, I would probably be much less strong than I am..."
And, she somehow implied, if she was proud of what she was right now, she also was proud of the events that brought her to become what she was.
So... was she proud that her parents had died?
This was her greatest doubt. How could she be proud of herself when her parents had died and she was still alive?
Her eyes were a bit tormented, while she became silent again and cupped the pint of cider inside her black, leather gloved hands.
Then it would appear, Tre stated, That our beliefs are similar. We also believe that deeds weigh on the judgement, but also knowledge. Our faith teaches that the purpose of life is knowledge, to learn all that you can. When the time comes, if you have learned enough, you are allowed to sit with The Goddess, if not, you return for another life, until you are wise enough.
She pointed towards Lady Almira, whos only features were her black eyes, the rest of her covered in robe and hood. Lady Almira does not speak, and she is also a healer. She does not fight, and this is her right. She is often sought for her wisdom and kindness. You see, we also believe that war is a poor teacher, and the strongest always pursue peace. Those who do evil, or wrong, are simply misguided, or young souls without much knowledge.
Lady Almira is able to speak with her mind, to some of us. She compliments you on your faith, to being so devout and strong in it, and says that you honor your mother and father. She gives you a high compliment, one which I would echo. Some of the Sisters nodded, making murmurs of approval. I believe that if you ever need help, or solace in time of pain, you could seek out our Island and gain it. One like you, like Falcon Kitiara, you are those who seek the right and truth. We provide peace for you in need.
This is said, Lady Anvil spoke solemnly, and all the other Sisters replied, So it is done.
Not at all, Magnus replied. He stared at his empty glass and moved it in small circles on the coaster.
He was about to continue his story when Narshawn apologized and excused herself. The petite lady went over to a distinct group of women who had entered the restaurant. She greeted some women as if they were equal colleagues; to others she made formal gestures of respect. Quite a diverse group, in terms of ethnicity and race, but they had similar clothing and an honorable demeanor in common.
Being raised Roman Catholic, Magnus was unfamiliar with this religious-looking gathering. He had heard of female-oriented spiritual groups and the like, but never observed one first hand. He was definitely curious, but did not wish to offend. Magnus tried not to stare, but he welcomed the break from painful memories.
Such beautiful garments, Magnus thought to himself. Reminded of his own sorry state of dress, the young man looked down on his battle-dirtied fighting garb and grimaced in disapproval.
Narshawn hovered back and apologized again for having to leave.
Its quite all right, Magnus said. I realize you have work to do. He could feel the alcohol starting to affect him somewhat, and enjoyed the warm feeling in his stomach. Narshawn, could I have another round of that delicious liquor?
As she poured him another drink, Magnus asked, I hope you dont mind me asking, but what is that gathering of women all about? Are you a part of the group? If you need to leave and take part in their activities, by all means, please go ahead. He took a big sip of his freshly-filled glass.