Post by sawg138 on Jul 4, 2013 21:25:34 GMT -5
[21:25] taus.solace: Phere will be quiet in her thoughts once more as the group starts on the ride back. Instead of trying to take the lead as on the journey over, she'll be lagging a bit behind everyone else
[21:25] Misfit: Lery will lag behind "You allright?"
[21:30] taus.solace: "I can not be for certain. I did what I set to do. I... or I should say...we put an end to the master vampire. But there is.. a weight that yet sits heavy on my shoulders."
[21:30] Misfit: "That we let Gash live? She's proven herself. We also destroyed some monsters who would only do no good"
[21:33] taus.solace: *she shakes her head* "No, this is not about Gash. She has proven herself, as you said. That she was willing to fight alongside us, that she held true to her word that Anna would be unharmed, that she was actually eager to meet the sunlight.. she has more than proven herself in all of these things." *she shakes her head once more and repeats, "No, this is not about Gash."
[21:34] Misfit: "Then what's it about?"
[21:40] taus.solace: *she speaks slowly, as if drawing her thoughts together while speaking* "To put it simply: it is about me, and where the road leads next. For too long have I cursed the Fates for their choice in where to send me.. for too long I did sit idle, not willing to carry out the path that was thrust on me."
[21:44] taus.solace: "I tried to abandon that path, stray from it as best I could, believing that I could forge my own way.. But perhaps, that was a mistake."
[21:46] taus.solace: *she sets her gaze on the road ahead of her, looking downward as her horse plods along*
[20:53] Misfit: "So you accept your destiny and hunt vampires?"
[21:01] taus.solace: "There is a part of me that wishes to rally against the Fates, to fight against them, and the one who orchestrated my path" *shakes her head* "But I will not let myself sit idle any longer. I have been living in the past, the unknown paths I might have taken, if things had happened different."
[21:06] taus.solace: "I had wanted the choice to be mine. I was never given that chance. And I have.... resented it, ever since that day I was Chosen."
[21:07] Misfit: "Chosen? What happened?"
[21:13] taus.solace: *she straightens* "As the first-born, it fell upon me to be trained in the ways of the Slayer. I do not remember much of the very young years, before the tattoos and the training began..." *she hefts a quiet sigh* "As I grew older, though I still did not want to be a First, I was at least happy that I was not a Second, though I wished the Fates had chosen me for Third, or possibly Fourth..their paths are more open, more free."
[21:16] Misfit: "So everything is based on birth? That sounds very restrictive" Lery shrugs "Then again, my family owned a plantation, I was late-born and would inherit very little. I took to sailing and slaving to make my fortune and threw in with the Captain when the Revenge his my last ship"
[21:21] taus.solace: *she nods* "Everything. Including who we marry, and when. My mother was a First.. my father was a Second. My grandmother was a First, my grandfather a Second.. So it has been for many generations."
[21:23] Misfit: "That seems..." He frowns "Do you at least get a choice of seconds?"
[21:28] taus.solace: "In a sense. The Slayer who returns first...with the most teeth, if two or more return at the same time...are able to make a choice among the available Seconds. On occasion, special arrangements are made."
[21:29] Misfit: "And the seconds get no choice?"
[21:36] taus.solace: *she shrugs* "I do not believe so. But then, I do not know how the Seconds are trained in their role. I only know that there will be one waiting for me, when I reach the age that I am expected to produce the next generation.." *she tightens her jaw, saying through clenched teeth* "As far as I can tell, the Fates control it all, and I have long wished I had been born elsewhere."
[21:39] taus.solace: *she mutters quietly* "I seem to have spent more time trying to fight my past, and the Fates, than I have spent fighting Vampires.. "
[21:48] Misfit: "So fight vampires and fuck the fates. The Captain says we make our fates. You can be a hero on your own terms"
[21:58] taus.solace: *a slight smile spreads at the corners of her mouth, a rare thing for her* "Perhaps." *her smile fades as quickly as it showed* "I could fight vampires well enough, I have seen the mistake in not doing more sooner. But many of the slayers return after a few months of being out in the field. They give updates, in exchange for yet more tattoos, then go out again.."
[22:00] Misfit: "And home will expect you soon?"
[22:09] taus.solace: "It has been five years... most would have come back and forth several times over in that time... " *she fingers her tooth-necklace uncomfortably* "If they have not sent someone to find my whereabouts, I would be much surprised. Not that I have made it easy to be found."
[22:10] Misfit: He mulls it over. "If you return so poorly trophied, will they let you marry?"
[22:15] taus.solace: "There is always to be a next generation. Slayers die in the line of duty.. there must be more to take their place. But as poorly trophied as I am....I do not know what they would do."
[22:20] taus.solace: *she shrugs* "I would prefer that they let me out, no longer burdened by the Fates. I would probably send them to Hades if I were given the chance. I would certainly not be training the young ones, for the poor influence I am. My grandmother retired from being a Slayer early, for she was very successful in her years. It was hoped I would learn the same satisfaction for the role as she had."
[22:26] taus.solace: *she shrugs again* "Of course, as defiant as I was--and still am--that will not happen. Even if I am able to meet the challenge with full vigor, I will not bring so many trophies."
[22:26] Misfit: "What happens if you don't marry?"
[22:33] taus.solace: *she shakes her head* "As with everything else, there are expectations. As far as I understand, there has never been a Slayer alive who did not participate in the marrying ceremony. There are those who do not survive long enough to see their day."
[22:34] Misfit: "I see. Have you ever considered piracy? Anna's father is Zeus and Ringo says his people and yours are very close, and worship the same gods"
[22:41] taus.solace: *she thinks for a moment* "It is true that Ringo and I are of the same...distant heritage. The only thing I have given constant thought, is how to untangle myself from the Fates' design. It is so ingrained in the others, they do not seem to mind. Many of those in my class were...happy or at least content that they had been chosen as a Slayer."
[22:48] taus.solace: *she looks down briefly at her right wrist, hidden though it is beneath her bracer* "...I have thought about giving my own right hand, if it meant I would no longer have to live under the shadow of my people. But it is how we identify ourselves.. though it also means losing a good weapon or two, less to be able to use in a fight."
[15:55] Misfit: He glances to your wrist. "That would be up to you, but going your own way need not be so violent. There's the freedom of the sea, and a chance to be more than a thug, or a victim with us, under the Captain. Waybe you should worry less about escaping your past and worry more about making your future"
[16:08] taus.solace: *she nods slightly* "I have tried. Yet I find my thoughts always return to those same worries. I would be the first to not conform to those traditions. I can only imagine the steps they would go through to find out my fate--to learn if I were dead or alive. In the years since I first came to Mexico, I have not lingered anywhere for too long. I am....weary of the running, hiding."
[16:09] Misfit: "Then don't run or hide. Return there for a bit and leave again"
[16:17] taus.solace: *she nods solemnly* "I have been going over that. Yet I am not certain what the outcome would be. Would they let me go willingly, or would they arrange an early marriage,." *she shakes her head, banishing the further thought from her mind* "To delay much longer, would allow more doubts to surface. Everything seems to point me back home, to stop running"
[16:19] Misfit: "You said others made multiple trips home. Did they not marry first? What are the rules for marriage?"
[16:45] taus.solace: "We Slayers are given time enough to become established in the area we are sent. Most prove themselves early, return with tales of their successes, and are rewarded with a tattoo to aid them further before being sent out again. Most marriage rituals take place around the age of thirty-five, though I believe my grandmother was a little older than that. Successful as she was, she was allowed to continue while her classmates were going through their ritual."
[16:51] taus.solace: *she sighs* "With my lack of proof of success, however.. rogue vampires, mostly, when I bothered to take the teeth at all, I am not certain what they will do. But..." *she pauses, almost unwilling to complete her next thought*
[16:51] Misfit: "But?"
[16:57] taus.solace: *she sighs heavily* "I would not be very surprised if they enter me into a marriage ritual on the spot, once they realize I am not my grandmother. In truth, I am almost certain that is what they would do, to ensure that I will complete at least one duty. There has not been a Slayer to return with so few..."
[17:03] taus.solace: *she gently shakes her head* "I have never felt as if I had any choice, that it was all up to the Fates and their design. Why should now be any different. And yet... I cannot continue hiding. To go home seems the only option, if only to find out what the truth is, what the outcome truly will be. Even if that outcome...is not at all what I want."
[17:04] Misfit: "they would hold you against your will? Force you to bear children?"
[17:10] taus.solace: "That.. is the purpose of the marriage ritual: To ensure the next generations of Slayers. I was...difficult in training. Did what I could to get out of it, to make them see that this was not something I wanted to do. They pushed that much harder. I made it clear that this was not of my choosing, and they agreed. The Fates had decided, so it must be."
[17:18] taus.solace: *she tightens her jaw* " I am the only one who has not conformed, who has tried to do things different. I have taken to hiding but all that has done is not allow me the chance to... make friends along the way. It is a matter of time before they come looking in the right place, should I still be there."
[17:21] Misfit: He reaches over and briefly squeezes your hand before fighting to right his balance "That seems backwards somehow. So your poor performance will mean some clown will marry you in the hopes of producing strong, warrior babies"
[17:30] taus.solace: *she halfway-smiles at his squeeze, then nods* "Others of my family are strong.. my grandmother is lauded as the most successful Slayer in generations, and, as I have sometimes been reminded, she did not give her trainers an easy time of it. She had her stubborn moments, similar to what I displayed."
[17:34] taus.solace: "My mother is still active.. somewhere, though I have not kept up with where she is. The where is not relevent to other Slayers, so long as the job is being done..." *she gives a one-shoulder shrug* "they may consider my child may prove to be a stronger warrior that could rival even my grandmother. Though I would prefer my child to be able to make that choice on her own, not to have anyone thrust it upon her."
[17:35] Misfit: "What if you had your child elsewhere and gave her that choice?"
[17:43] taus.solace: "Only the those who are Third and Fourth are offered the option of starting families elsewhere. The Third are encouraged to fully become immersed within the culture they are sent to observe. But a Slayer...is expected to produce a Slayer." *sounding as if reciting a phrase she heard many times over: "So it has been, so it will be."
[17:48] taus.solace: *she shakes her head slightly as if considering, thinking out loud* "But a child born outside the city.. could be considered an outsider. Let them try to take her, they would see a true Slayer in her fury."
[17:58] Misfit: "Then why not have a family outside the city?"
[18:10] taus.solace: *she is quiet for a few moments before answering* "I do not know how I would be able to manage a child, for that is what the Second's role is. And it has not been an option. Living in the forests, in the trees, as I have... I can sustain myself, but I, or even start a family, let alone a place to meet someone.. "
[18:14] Misfit: He nods "Then you go off to kill more vampires?"
[18:20] taus.solace: "It is what the expected thing would be, were the ritual held among my people. I would be off duty as a Slayer for a few years, to give birth to a First and Second, possibly a Third.. " *she sighs* "It is not something I want to think about, how strict they are in that. A child born of the outside world.. may have more opportunities to make their own way.. instead of the Fates dictating every aspect. And my role, were that to happen..I cannot even begin to say."
[19:44] Misfit: "The Captain, she says the Fates are false, we make our own. Misfits and rejects have always found themselves in piracy, and you've seen what the Captain does for the poor, the powerless"
[19:51] taus.solace: "My people believe that the Fates are as real as the Gods, if not lesser Gods themselves, and their ways and wills are to be..." *she practically spits out the last word* "...respected. The only ounce of respect I would show them, would be to physically throw them into the maw of Hades, given the chance."
[19:52] Misfit: "The Captain, she says while she was away, she learned who her father is. Zeus. The ruler of the gods"
[19:55] taus.solace: *seems taken aback by the comment* "Did she.. hear that from him, that they are false?"
[19:56] Misfit: "You'd have to ask her. Her... lovers seem to believe it. So does Ringo"
[20:05] taus.solace: *Phere nods quietly, thinking for a moment* "While some of my people embrace particular deities, I abandoned them all, as I felt they had abandoned me, for choosing where I should start this..existence. I have long wanted to forge my own path, yet it is impossible to move forward with the shadow of my past ever yet behind."
[20:07] Misfit: "Now you sound like Ringo, damning all the gods" Lery grins "I think he's going to be a pirate too"
[20:18] taus.solace: *she smiles slightly* "Almost nice to have something in common with someone.." *her smiles slowly fades* "but I cannot yet be certain about staying. I would not wish further trouble brought to my friends, because of my demons."
[20:19] Misfit: And the group is stopping for the night, Lery dismounts less than gracefully "But that's what friends are for"
[20:31] taus.solace: *she nods, then easily dismounts* "To return home is the only way of knowing for certain... Yet, while there is very little that I fear, what they will decide with me on that day is chief among them. And to stay would mean they would seek and find me, eventually, whatever may come of it."
[20:33] Misfit: "Then ask the Captain about seeing you home briefly. We'll stand by you" said around his horse as he unsaddles and prepares for the night
[20:37] taus.solace: "None of you would be permitted inside." she calmly states, as her horse seems to dematerialize behind her.
[20:37] Misfit: "Then they better let you out"
[20:41] taus.solace: "It is a long journey from here, faster by flight, but not by much. Add to this a mountain hike, and then a lengthy wait in practically the middle of nowhere, and yet, you would wait?"
[20:42] Misfit: He nods
[20:53] taus.solace: *she mulls this over* "I do not know what the response would be to outsiders standing outside the city. We do not bring visitors, ordinarily."
[20:53] Misfit: "One more crazy thing that rebellious girl did"
[21:02] taus.solace: *nods* "At the very least. I should also mention... custom would say that I should have the lot of you blindfolded until we arrived, to render you unable to again find the city with or without me.." she shakes her head apologetically "I will not force anyone to follow this, but I fear the steps they would take, should the secret be revealed. We have never had any quarrels, outside of the vampire populations.. But, guests are supposed to remain uninvited, the location undisclosed."
[21:08] Misfit: He nods. "i understand guarding your secrecy, but hold that thought" as he spreads a blanket out. "One moment" and he steps away, only to return with two bowls of stew "Dinner is served"
[21:12] taus.solace: *she smiles as she gratefully accepts the bowl, kneeling down on one end of the blanket* "Thank you. It does smell good."
[21:13] Misfit: "Yes, it does. And to top it off..." he pulls a bottle from his pack. "It's only wine, and diluted. This isn't the place to fully enjoy comfort"
[21:18] taus.solace: "After today's long ride and heavy thoughts, I am sure it will be more than fine." she says, still smiling as she takes a sampling of her stew.
[21:20] Misfit: It's simple beef stew, more like someone dumped everything into a pot and cooked it
[21:22] taus.solace: even though it is not the kind of fare she would be accustomed to, she eats with an appetite
[21:22] Misfit: He also enjoys his dinner, eating quietly
[21:27] taus.solace: when her bowl is almost empty, she casts an idle glance around, observing where other people are, what they are doing, and quietly questions to Lery, "You know your Captain better than I do.. Would it be better to wait to approach her about this now, in the morning, or after we have completed the ride back to Juarez?"
[21:29] Misfit: "She's always approachable" He glances to where Anna, Jeff, and Perce are sharing a meal "Well, most always. I've never seen her really take lovers before"
[21:33] taus.solace: *she nods uncertainly* "That girl," motioning to Perce with her head, "I do knot know her very well. I hope I did not.. damage her.." grimacing slightly as she recalls the incident in the mine.
[21:34] Misfit: "I do not believe so. Nothing the Captain can't fix, or their husband. He's got some funky abilities and is very good with a sword"
[21:37] Misfit: "She'll be fine. I hear she was more broken when Ringo found her on the dead world. But the Captain made her good from that"
[21:40] taus.solace: *she nods again, relaxing once more* "I had never caused hurt when I did not intend to.. but then, I had never found myself in such a fight, with so many others around."
[21:40] Misfit: "There's an old army word for what you did. Friendly fire"
[21:44] taus.solace: "At least I did not put the...literal fire.. " *wincing again*
[21:45] Misfit: "No, she did that" Lery shrugs "I've seen this group do things I've only heard of in stories"
[21:45] Misfit: "Or the Captain"
[21:48] taus.solace: she sets her now empty bowl off to the side and props herelf up with her hands behind her. "How do you mean?"
[21:52] Misfit: "Breathing fire, deflecting gunshots like a jedi, magic. I know he had problems with that Brodkil, but I've seen Elex go against bigger, meaner demons and kill them"
[21:59] taus.solace: *nods slightly* "I was not certain what the reactions would be when the nature of my tattoos were revealed." *she straightens one of the leather bands around her arms* "I feel that in this group, I do not have to worry about being an oddity.. seems like, most everyone is in their own ways."
[22:01] Misfit: "Most of them, yes. I'm only mortal, but even Achilles had his Myrmidions, Roosevelt had the Rough Riders"
[22:07] taus.solace: "But you have been around the rest of them, have seen quite a lot, from the sounds. The nature of my tattoos do not seem to bother you. You barely noticed when my horse vanished. Or if you did, you did not say anything."
[22:08] Misfit: "It's magic. Not like the Captain's or Ringo's, but it's magic still"
[22:13] taus.solace: *nods* "it is that, but it is more...limiting in some respects. Anna, she is able to do book magic, while I cannot."
[22:13] Misfit: He nods "I don't really know all the differences. The Captain knows magic, I leave that to her"
[22:16] Misfit: And he pours another glass of wine "I know the sea and how to make a living on it"
[22:21] taus.solace: she says thoughtfully, "Sounds like most everyone here knows where they stand, what they are to do. They know their strengths, and go with it."
[22:22] Misfit: "Except you?"
[22:31] taus.solace: "Fighting vampires...it is what I know, but it is not what I would have chosen, had a choice been offered. I have spent so many years, so much energy, hating the hours of training, the tattoos, the reminders of how great my grandmother was in her day... " *she gives a slow shake of her head* "But if one of the Gods, nay, even if Zeus himself came before me, to offer to remove the tattoos, all of them, in order that I could have a free choice, I believe I know now what I would do."
[22:32] Misfit: He nods. "I think maybe you're accepting what you are. We just need to work on who you are"
[22:37] taus.solace: she nods in agreement, then asks thoughtfully, "I wonder if I could ask... At what age did you decide the life at sea?"
[22:38] Misfit: "I was born in Haiti, I was always around port. At twelve, I signed on as a cabin boy to a notorious pirate captain. That lasted until his ship met the Revenge. I was ninteen then and the pas ten years have been sailing with the Captain"
[22:40] taus.solace: "So you...knew then, that was what you truly wanted to do?"
[22:42] Misfit: "I love the sea, live for her, to feel her salt winf caress me. Luckily, she understands when I stray with mortal women"
[22:48] taus.solace: *she nods* "I was less than half the age you were, when I had entered into training. Those first years were by far the worst... for everyone invovled."
[22:51] taus.solace: "Until the beginning of the third year.. that was when my struggles stopped becoming as physical in the tattoo room." she wears a chagrined expression, as if embarassed to be speaking of it now.
[22:52] Misfit: "Did they hurt?"
[22:56] taus.solace: "They had magic that negated some of the pain, so it was uncomfortable but not intolerable. As we got into our teen years, they used less of the magic until we could do without. But for someone who did not want to have them done.. it was nothing less than traumatic." *she sighs* "I hoped my...tantrums would change their minds, to allow me to.. escape my fate."
[22:57] Misfit: He nods and takes a hand comfortingly "I understand"
[23:02] taus.solace: she smiles briefly at his touch, and continues, "As soon as I got my seventh one, before my seventh birthday, a lot of the fight left me. I took more of the tattoos without as much protest, but I had not forgiven them for that seventh one, the one that in effect, had sealed my fate."
[23:03] Misfit: "Sealed your fate?"
[23:07] taus.solace: she nods. "Most mortals can obtain these type of tattoos, with few side effects, if they know where to go. It is another closely guarded secret, however, and most of the masters do not let their secret out in the open."
[23:10] taus.solace: "Even those who already practice magic, could recieve them.. but would find they would have to concentrate that much more to use the tattoo's power.. But the danger in that, is if they obtain more than six tattoos..their previous form of magic is gone, lost to them....forever."
[23:11] Misfit: "So with that tattoo, you forever lost any other magic you may have learned"
[23:14] taus.solace: "_Could_ have learned." she corrects. "Not that I was given the chance, but there was one type of magic that always intrigued me. I wished I could have learned it instead. But no, I had to be a First, a Slayer."
[23:14] Misfit: "What kind of magic?"
[23:19] taus.solace: "I have never seen it at work outside of the city, not certain what they would think about me sharing this.. Have you ever let sand drift through your fingers, or shape something out of mud or clay?"
[23:19] Misfit: He nods
[23:21] taus.solace: "Imagine doing that.. but with solid stone instead."
[23:22] Misfit: He nods
[23:24] taus.solace: "That is what I had wanted to learn. I do not know if it is something that can be taught, or if you somehow know what to do. But I was discouraged from even thinking about it.. which I eventually did, with that number seven."
[23:25] Misfit: He nods "I think your people belong on a world where demons maraud and humans kill anything not them. I'm sorry they did that to you"
[23:34] taus.solace: *she lifts her shoulds slightly* "I cannot change what was, and even now, were i to lose both of my arms, it would still be beyond my abilities to use or even learn any other magic." She offers a half-smile. "My only desire now, is to let my people know to not expect me for the marriage ritual, to make other arrangements for the Second which would otherwise still be waiting for their Slayer to return.For a Slayer I may be, I am not one of theirs. Not anymore."
[23:37] taus.solace: "I do not feel that I ever was.. but what a relief it will be to be able to say that, to them"
[23:43] Misfit: He smiles and sueezes your hands. "Then I needn't worry how your people view sharing"
[23:49] taus.solace: her smile widens at his touch, then turns quizzical at his words. "sharing.." she repeats. "In what .. sort of way do you mean that?"
[23:52] Misfit: "I... did not mean to be so forward. I just am enjoying spending time with you"
[00:05] taus.solace: "I am enjoying the time with you as well. It is quite easy to talk to you... when I have kept these things unmentioned for so long. The Patriarch will probably not be happy with the extent of what I have spoken.. but it no longer matters to me. Small price to pay, I think. I would face one day of his anger if I could keep this feeling."
[00:12] taus.solace: "Revealing my heavy thoughts, sharing them, the parts of my past.. have left me feeling..." she pauses for the right word, "Lighter. Content. Almost.. free. I have never experienced these."
[00:12] Misfit: He smiles "I am glad I could help"
[00:15] Misfit: "Amazing how good it feels to share our burdens, isn't it"
[00:17] taus.solace: *she nods and smiles* "I hope it is as easy to tell the Captain, and to the rest. I would not ask anyone to go if they are not willing, but even if only one would accompany me.." she stifles a quiet yawn, grinning sheepishly, "I would be able to face the enxt step that much easily."
[00:18] Misfit: "It is growing late and I have watch. Shall we share warmpth tonight? I believe your turn is tomorrow"
[00:24] taus.solace: she nods with a grateful smile. "I have grown accustomed to long days, long nights.. a few hours sleep here and there. Such is the life of a Slayer. But talking as we have been, feels more draining than even a week of 24-hour days. I would not be surprised if I start to doze after we continue our ride."
[00:25] Misfit: "Throw your sleeping roll over the blanket and we will use mine for cover then"
[00:27] taus.solace: *she does not have to move far to reach her roll, but gets up so she can unroll it over the blanket*
[00:28] Misfit: He gets out of the way and carries the dishes back to Nils, who is on first watch. Per, please
[00:29] taus.solace: d20 right?
[00:29] Misfit: Yeah
[00:30] taus.solace: 19
[00:30] Misfit: You catch nils say something, to which Lery shrugs and comes back over, while leaving Nils shaking his head
[00:33] taus.solace: While she is settling in, she quirks a curious expression. "What was that about?"
[00:34] Misfit: "He was giving me grief that I don't stay true to the sea"
[00:38] Misfit: He shrugs "Nevermind Nils. He's... well, he's German"
[00:41] taus.solace: "I am not certain I understand.. True to the sea in the same sense as, I have been to my duty as a slayer?
[00:42] Misfit: "I told you, the sea is my love. Nils questions me talking to you"
[00:46] taus.solace: she nods, resting her head within the crook of her elbow. "I...think I understand."
[00:48] Misfit: He joyns you under the blanket. "Do you? I am happy to sleep warm, with a friend"
[00:51] taus.solace: "Perhaps in the same way you hinted at having to share...me with my people... if I interpret your earlier comment rightly."
[00:53] Misfit: "Honestly, yes. I've been sailing a long time. I understand how uncertain things can be. For someone special, I can allow room"
[01:01] taus.solace: "I have never traveled by ship before. I cannot imagine there are many skills I possess that are needed on open water. Not that I am unwilling to learn, to try new things..."
[01:04] taus.solace: "we shall see.... what the Fa-- no, what the future holds. The Fates will design my life no longer." she smiles to herself at her own words, her smiles have been becoming broader and more frequent.
[01:05] Misfit: He grins "Are you trying new things now?"
[01:13] taus.solace: her own smile becomes a grin. "Perhaps. When I leave that city which was once my home, it will be for the last time. And, for the first time in my life, I will truly be free to do whatever it is that I want. Whatever it is. Sail on a ship, why not? Plant a garden, maybe. Or even better..." she -almost- breaks into a laugh as she comments, "a rock garden"
[01:14] Misfit: He laughs "Then I will find you beautiful rocks for your garden"
[01:22] taus.solace: she smiles, cupping her hands behind her head as she lays on her back. "the question would be, where to put the garden. No city has been my home in a long time."
[01:23] Misfit: "For now, how about Juarez. The Captain seems to be making it her home port, for now at least"
[01:29] taus.solace: "that sounds as good an idea as any, though I suppse I will need to find a place--or make one. Living in the out-of-doors did offer me one thing. I was never for lack of a house, I simply made my own."
[01:30] Misfit: "I have a room of my own, or you may take one as well, at the orphanage"
[01:36] taus.solace: "I will wait to decide. First, to return to my homeland for the first---and final---time. But before even that, sleep."
[01:36] Misfit: He nods and both sleep
[21:25] Misfit: Lery will lag behind "You allright?"
[21:30] taus.solace: "I can not be for certain. I did what I set to do. I... or I should say...we put an end to the master vampire. But there is.. a weight that yet sits heavy on my shoulders."
[21:30] Misfit: "That we let Gash live? She's proven herself. We also destroyed some monsters who would only do no good"
[21:33] taus.solace: *she shakes her head* "No, this is not about Gash. She has proven herself, as you said. That she was willing to fight alongside us, that she held true to her word that Anna would be unharmed, that she was actually eager to meet the sunlight.. she has more than proven herself in all of these things." *she shakes her head once more and repeats, "No, this is not about Gash."
[21:34] Misfit: "Then what's it about?"
[21:40] taus.solace: *she speaks slowly, as if drawing her thoughts together while speaking* "To put it simply: it is about me, and where the road leads next. For too long have I cursed the Fates for their choice in where to send me.. for too long I did sit idle, not willing to carry out the path that was thrust on me."
[21:44] taus.solace: "I tried to abandon that path, stray from it as best I could, believing that I could forge my own way.. But perhaps, that was a mistake."
[21:46] taus.solace: *she sets her gaze on the road ahead of her, looking downward as her horse plods along*
[20:53] Misfit: "So you accept your destiny and hunt vampires?"
[21:01] taus.solace: "There is a part of me that wishes to rally against the Fates, to fight against them, and the one who orchestrated my path" *shakes her head* "But I will not let myself sit idle any longer. I have been living in the past, the unknown paths I might have taken, if things had happened different."
[21:06] taus.solace: "I had wanted the choice to be mine. I was never given that chance. And I have.... resented it, ever since that day I was Chosen."
[21:07] Misfit: "Chosen? What happened?"
[21:13] taus.solace: *she straightens* "As the first-born, it fell upon me to be trained in the ways of the Slayer. I do not remember much of the very young years, before the tattoos and the training began..." *she hefts a quiet sigh* "As I grew older, though I still did not want to be a First, I was at least happy that I was not a Second, though I wished the Fates had chosen me for Third, or possibly Fourth..their paths are more open, more free."
[21:16] Misfit: "So everything is based on birth? That sounds very restrictive" Lery shrugs "Then again, my family owned a plantation, I was late-born and would inherit very little. I took to sailing and slaving to make my fortune and threw in with the Captain when the Revenge his my last ship"
[21:21] taus.solace: *she nods* "Everything. Including who we marry, and when. My mother was a First.. my father was a Second. My grandmother was a First, my grandfather a Second.. So it has been for many generations."
[21:23] Misfit: "That seems..." He frowns "Do you at least get a choice of seconds?"
[21:28] taus.solace: "In a sense. The Slayer who returns first...with the most teeth, if two or more return at the same time...are able to make a choice among the available Seconds. On occasion, special arrangements are made."
[21:29] Misfit: "And the seconds get no choice?"
[21:36] taus.solace: *she shrugs* "I do not believe so. But then, I do not know how the Seconds are trained in their role. I only know that there will be one waiting for me, when I reach the age that I am expected to produce the next generation.." *she tightens her jaw, saying through clenched teeth* "As far as I can tell, the Fates control it all, and I have long wished I had been born elsewhere."
[21:39] taus.solace: *she mutters quietly* "I seem to have spent more time trying to fight my past, and the Fates, than I have spent fighting Vampires.. "
[21:48] Misfit: "So fight vampires and fuck the fates. The Captain says we make our fates. You can be a hero on your own terms"
[21:58] taus.solace: *a slight smile spreads at the corners of her mouth, a rare thing for her* "Perhaps." *her smile fades as quickly as it showed* "I could fight vampires well enough, I have seen the mistake in not doing more sooner. But many of the slayers return after a few months of being out in the field. They give updates, in exchange for yet more tattoos, then go out again.."
[22:00] Misfit: "And home will expect you soon?"
[22:09] taus.solace: "It has been five years... most would have come back and forth several times over in that time... " *she fingers her tooth-necklace uncomfortably* "If they have not sent someone to find my whereabouts, I would be much surprised. Not that I have made it easy to be found."
[22:10] Misfit: He mulls it over. "If you return so poorly trophied, will they let you marry?"
[22:15] taus.solace: "There is always to be a next generation. Slayers die in the line of duty.. there must be more to take their place. But as poorly trophied as I am....I do not know what they would do."
[22:20] taus.solace: *she shrugs* "I would prefer that they let me out, no longer burdened by the Fates. I would probably send them to Hades if I were given the chance. I would certainly not be training the young ones, for the poor influence I am. My grandmother retired from being a Slayer early, for she was very successful in her years. It was hoped I would learn the same satisfaction for the role as she had."
[22:26] taus.solace: *she shrugs again* "Of course, as defiant as I was--and still am--that will not happen. Even if I am able to meet the challenge with full vigor, I will not bring so many trophies."
[22:26] Misfit: "What happens if you don't marry?"
[22:33] taus.solace: *she shakes her head* "As with everything else, there are expectations. As far as I understand, there has never been a Slayer alive who did not participate in the marrying ceremony. There are those who do not survive long enough to see their day."
[22:34] Misfit: "I see. Have you ever considered piracy? Anna's father is Zeus and Ringo says his people and yours are very close, and worship the same gods"
[22:41] taus.solace: *she thinks for a moment* "It is true that Ringo and I are of the same...distant heritage. The only thing I have given constant thought, is how to untangle myself from the Fates' design. It is so ingrained in the others, they do not seem to mind. Many of those in my class were...happy or at least content that they had been chosen as a Slayer."
[22:48] taus.solace: *she looks down briefly at her right wrist, hidden though it is beneath her bracer* "...I have thought about giving my own right hand, if it meant I would no longer have to live under the shadow of my people. But it is how we identify ourselves.. though it also means losing a good weapon or two, less to be able to use in a fight."
[15:55] Misfit: He glances to your wrist. "That would be up to you, but going your own way need not be so violent. There's the freedom of the sea, and a chance to be more than a thug, or a victim with us, under the Captain. Waybe you should worry less about escaping your past and worry more about making your future"
[16:08] taus.solace: *she nods slightly* "I have tried. Yet I find my thoughts always return to those same worries. I would be the first to not conform to those traditions. I can only imagine the steps they would go through to find out my fate--to learn if I were dead or alive. In the years since I first came to Mexico, I have not lingered anywhere for too long. I am....weary of the running, hiding."
[16:09] Misfit: "Then don't run or hide. Return there for a bit and leave again"
[16:17] taus.solace: *she nods solemnly* "I have been going over that. Yet I am not certain what the outcome would be. Would they let me go willingly, or would they arrange an early marriage,." *she shakes her head, banishing the further thought from her mind* "To delay much longer, would allow more doubts to surface. Everything seems to point me back home, to stop running"
[16:19] Misfit: "You said others made multiple trips home. Did they not marry first? What are the rules for marriage?"
[16:45] taus.solace: "We Slayers are given time enough to become established in the area we are sent. Most prove themselves early, return with tales of their successes, and are rewarded with a tattoo to aid them further before being sent out again. Most marriage rituals take place around the age of thirty-five, though I believe my grandmother was a little older than that. Successful as she was, she was allowed to continue while her classmates were going through their ritual."
[16:51] taus.solace: *she sighs* "With my lack of proof of success, however.. rogue vampires, mostly, when I bothered to take the teeth at all, I am not certain what they will do. But..." *she pauses, almost unwilling to complete her next thought*
[16:51] Misfit: "But?"
[16:57] taus.solace: *she sighs heavily* "I would not be very surprised if they enter me into a marriage ritual on the spot, once they realize I am not my grandmother. In truth, I am almost certain that is what they would do, to ensure that I will complete at least one duty. There has not been a Slayer to return with so few..."
[17:03] taus.solace: *she gently shakes her head* "I have never felt as if I had any choice, that it was all up to the Fates and their design. Why should now be any different. And yet... I cannot continue hiding. To go home seems the only option, if only to find out what the truth is, what the outcome truly will be. Even if that outcome...is not at all what I want."
[17:04] Misfit: "they would hold you against your will? Force you to bear children?"
[17:10] taus.solace: "That.. is the purpose of the marriage ritual: To ensure the next generations of Slayers. I was...difficult in training. Did what I could to get out of it, to make them see that this was not something I wanted to do. They pushed that much harder. I made it clear that this was not of my choosing, and they agreed. The Fates had decided, so it must be."
[17:18] taus.solace: *she tightens her jaw* " I am the only one who has not conformed, who has tried to do things different. I have taken to hiding but all that has done is not allow me the chance to... make friends along the way. It is a matter of time before they come looking in the right place, should I still be there."
[17:21] Misfit: He reaches over and briefly squeezes your hand before fighting to right his balance "That seems backwards somehow. So your poor performance will mean some clown will marry you in the hopes of producing strong, warrior babies"
[17:30] taus.solace: *she halfway-smiles at his squeeze, then nods* "Others of my family are strong.. my grandmother is lauded as the most successful Slayer in generations, and, as I have sometimes been reminded, she did not give her trainers an easy time of it. She had her stubborn moments, similar to what I displayed."
[17:34] taus.solace: "My mother is still active.. somewhere, though I have not kept up with where she is. The where is not relevent to other Slayers, so long as the job is being done..." *she gives a one-shoulder shrug* "they may consider my child may prove to be a stronger warrior that could rival even my grandmother. Though I would prefer my child to be able to make that choice on her own, not to have anyone thrust it upon her."
[17:35] Misfit: "What if you had your child elsewhere and gave her that choice?"
[17:43] taus.solace: "Only the those who are Third and Fourth are offered the option of starting families elsewhere. The Third are encouraged to fully become immersed within the culture they are sent to observe. But a Slayer...is expected to produce a Slayer." *sounding as if reciting a phrase she heard many times over: "So it has been, so it will be."
[17:48] taus.solace: *she shakes her head slightly as if considering, thinking out loud* "But a child born outside the city.. could be considered an outsider. Let them try to take her, they would see a true Slayer in her fury."
[17:58] Misfit: "Then why not have a family outside the city?"
[18:10] taus.solace: *she is quiet for a few moments before answering* "I do not know how I would be able to manage a child, for that is what the Second's role is. And it has not been an option. Living in the forests, in the trees, as I have... I can sustain myself, but I, or even start a family, let alone a place to meet someone.. "
[18:14] Misfit: He nods "Then you go off to kill more vampires?"
[18:20] taus.solace: "It is what the expected thing would be, were the ritual held among my people. I would be off duty as a Slayer for a few years, to give birth to a First and Second, possibly a Third.. " *she sighs* "It is not something I want to think about, how strict they are in that. A child born of the outside world.. may have more opportunities to make their own way.. instead of the Fates dictating every aspect. And my role, were that to happen..I cannot even begin to say."
[19:44] Misfit: "The Captain, she says the Fates are false, we make our own. Misfits and rejects have always found themselves in piracy, and you've seen what the Captain does for the poor, the powerless"
[19:51] taus.solace: "My people believe that the Fates are as real as the Gods, if not lesser Gods themselves, and their ways and wills are to be..." *she practically spits out the last word* "...respected. The only ounce of respect I would show them, would be to physically throw them into the maw of Hades, given the chance."
[19:52] Misfit: "The Captain, she says while she was away, she learned who her father is. Zeus. The ruler of the gods"
[19:55] taus.solace: *seems taken aback by the comment* "Did she.. hear that from him, that they are false?"
[19:56] Misfit: "You'd have to ask her. Her... lovers seem to believe it. So does Ringo"
[20:05] taus.solace: *Phere nods quietly, thinking for a moment* "While some of my people embrace particular deities, I abandoned them all, as I felt they had abandoned me, for choosing where I should start this..existence. I have long wanted to forge my own path, yet it is impossible to move forward with the shadow of my past ever yet behind."
[20:07] Misfit: "Now you sound like Ringo, damning all the gods" Lery grins "I think he's going to be a pirate too"
[20:18] taus.solace: *she smiles slightly* "Almost nice to have something in common with someone.." *her smiles slowly fades* "but I cannot yet be certain about staying. I would not wish further trouble brought to my friends, because of my demons."
[20:19] Misfit: And the group is stopping for the night, Lery dismounts less than gracefully "But that's what friends are for"
[20:31] taus.solace: *she nods, then easily dismounts* "To return home is the only way of knowing for certain... Yet, while there is very little that I fear, what they will decide with me on that day is chief among them. And to stay would mean they would seek and find me, eventually, whatever may come of it."
[20:33] Misfit: "Then ask the Captain about seeing you home briefly. We'll stand by you" said around his horse as he unsaddles and prepares for the night
[20:37] taus.solace: "None of you would be permitted inside." she calmly states, as her horse seems to dematerialize behind her.
[20:37] Misfit: "Then they better let you out"
[20:41] taus.solace: "It is a long journey from here, faster by flight, but not by much. Add to this a mountain hike, and then a lengthy wait in practically the middle of nowhere, and yet, you would wait?"
[20:42] Misfit: He nods
[20:53] taus.solace: *she mulls this over* "I do not know what the response would be to outsiders standing outside the city. We do not bring visitors, ordinarily."
[20:53] Misfit: "One more crazy thing that rebellious girl did"
[21:02] taus.solace: *nods* "At the very least. I should also mention... custom would say that I should have the lot of you blindfolded until we arrived, to render you unable to again find the city with or without me.." she shakes her head apologetically "I will not force anyone to follow this, but I fear the steps they would take, should the secret be revealed. We have never had any quarrels, outside of the vampire populations.. But, guests are supposed to remain uninvited, the location undisclosed."
[21:08] Misfit: He nods. "i understand guarding your secrecy, but hold that thought" as he spreads a blanket out. "One moment" and he steps away, only to return with two bowls of stew "Dinner is served"
[21:12] taus.solace: *she smiles as she gratefully accepts the bowl, kneeling down on one end of the blanket* "Thank you. It does smell good."
[21:13] Misfit: "Yes, it does. And to top it off..." he pulls a bottle from his pack. "It's only wine, and diluted. This isn't the place to fully enjoy comfort"
[21:18] taus.solace: "After today's long ride and heavy thoughts, I am sure it will be more than fine." she says, still smiling as she takes a sampling of her stew.
[21:20] Misfit: It's simple beef stew, more like someone dumped everything into a pot and cooked it
[21:22] taus.solace: even though it is not the kind of fare she would be accustomed to, she eats with an appetite
[21:22] Misfit: He also enjoys his dinner, eating quietly
[21:27] taus.solace: when her bowl is almost empty, she casts an idle glance around, observing where other people are, what they are doing, and quietly questions to Lery, "You know your Captain better than I do.. Would it be better to wait to approach her about this now, in the morning, or after we have completed the ride back to Juarez?"
[21:29] Misfit: "She's always approachable" He glances to where Anna, Jeff, and Perce are sharing a meal "Well, most always. I've never seen her really take lovers before"
[21:33] taus.solace: *she nods uncertainly* "That girl," motioning to Perce with her head, "I do knot know her very well. I hope I did not.. damage her.." grimacing slightly as she recalls the incident in the mine.
[21:34] Misfit: "I do not believe so. Nothing the Captain can't fix, or their husband. He's got some funky abilities and is very good with a sword"
[21:37] Misfit: "She'll be fine. I hear she was more broken when Ringo found her on the dead world. But the Captain made her good from that"
[21:40] taus.solace: *she nods again, relaxing once more* "I had never caused hurt when I did not intend to.. but then, I had never found myself in such a fight, with so many others around."
[21:40] Misfit: "There's an old army word for what you did. Friendly fire"
[21:44] taus.solace: "At least I did not put the...literal fire.. " *wincing again*
[21:45] Misfit: "No, she did that" Lery shrugs "I've seen this group do things I've only heard of in stories"
[21:45] Misfit: "Or the Captain"
[21:48] taus.solace: she sets her now empty bowl off to the side and props herelf up with her hands behind her. "How do you mean?"
[21:52] Misfit: "Breathing fire, deflecting gunshots like a jedi, magic. I know he had problems with that Brodkil, but I've seen Elex go against bigger, meaner demons and kill them"
[21:59] taus.solace: *nods slightly* "I was not certain what the reactions would be when the nature of my tattoos were revealed." *she straightens one of the leather bands around her arms* "I feel that in this group, I do not have to worry about being an oddity.. seems like, most everyone is in their own ways."
[22:01] Misfit: "Most of them, yes. I'm only mortal, but even Achilles had his Myrmidions, Roosevelt had the Rough Riders"
[22:07] taus.solace: "But you have been around the rest of them, have seen quite a lot, from the sounds. The nature of my tattoos do not seem to bother you. You barely noticed when my horse vanished. Or if you did, you did not say anything."
[22:08] Misfit: "It's magic. Not like the Captain's or Ringo's, but it's magic still"
[22:13] taus.solace: *nods* "it is that, but it is more...limiting in some respects. Anna, she is able to do book magic, while I cannot."
[22:13] Misfit: He nods "I don't really know all the differences. The Captain knows magic, I leave that to her"
[22:16] Misfit: And he pours another glass of wine "I know the sea and how to make a living on it"
[22:21] taus.solace: she says thoughtfully, "Sounds like most everyone here knows where they stand, what they are to do. They know their strengths, and go with it."
[22:22] Misfit: "Except you?"
[22:31] taus.solace: "Fighting vampires...it is what I know, but it is not what I would have chosen, had a choice been offered. I have spent so many years, so much energy, hating the hours of training, the tattoos, the reminders of how great my grandmother was in her day... " *she gives a slow shake of her head* "But if one of the Gods, nay, even if Zeus himself came before me, to offer to remove the tattoos, all of them, in order that I could have a free choice, I believe I know now what I would do."
[22:32] Misfit: He nods. "I think maybe you're accepting what you are. We just need to work on who you are"
[22:37] taus.solace: she nods in agreement, then asks thoughtfully, "I wonder if I could ask... At what age did you decide the life at sea?"
[22:38] Misfit: "I was born in Haiti, I was always around port. At twelve, I signed on as a cabin boy to a notorious pirate captain. That lasted until his ship met the Revenge. I was ninteen then and the pas ten years have been sailing with the Captain"
[22:40] taus.solace: "So you...knew then, that was what you truly wanted to do?"
[22:42] Misfit: "I love the sea, live for her, to feel her salt winf caress me. Luckily, she understands when I stray with mortal women"
[22:48] taus.solace: *she nods* "I was less than half the age you were, when I had entered into training. Those first years were by far the worst... for everyone invovled."
[22:51] taus.solace: "Until the beginning of the third year.. that was when my struggles stopped becoming as physical in the tattoo room." she wears a chagrined expression, as if embarassed to be speaking of it now.
[22:52] Misfit: "Did they hurt?"
[22:56] taus.solace: "They had magic that negated some of the pain, so it was uncomfortable but not intolerable. As we got into our teen years, they used less of the magic until we could do without. But for someone who did not want to have them done.. it was nothing less than traumatic." *she sighs* "I hoped my...tantrums would change their minds, to allow me to.. escape my fate."
[22:57] Misfit: He nods and takes a hand comfortingly "I understand"
[23:02] taus.solace: she smiles briefly at his touch, and continues, "As soon as I got my seventh one, before my seventh birthday, a lot of the fight left me. I took more of the tattoos without as much protest, but I had not forgiven them for that seventh one, the one that in effect, had sealed my fate."
[23:03] Misfit: "Sealed your fate?"
[23:07] taus.solace: she nods. "Most mortals can obtain these type of tattoos, with few side effects, if they know where to go. It is another closely guarded secret, however, and most of the masters do not let their secret out in the open."
[23:10] taus.solace: "Even those who already practice magic, could recieve them.. but would find they would have to concentrate that much more to use the tattoo's power.. But the danger in that, is if they obtain more than six tattoos..their previous form of magic is gone, lost to them....forever."
[23:11] Misfit: "So with that tattoo, you forever lost any other magic you may have learned"
[23:14] taus.solace: "_Could_ have learned." she corrects. "Not that I was given the chance, but there was one type of magic that always intrigued me. I wished I could have learned it instead. But no, I had to be a First, a Slayer."
[23:14] Misfit: "What kind of magic?"
[23:19] taus.solace: "I have never seen it at work outside of the city, not certain what they would think about me sharing this.. Have you ever let sand drift through your fingers, or shape something out of mud or clay?"
[23:19] Misfit: He nods
[23:21] taus.solace: "Imagine doing that.. but with solid stone instead."
[23:22] Misfit: He nods
[23:24] taus.solace: "That is what I had wanted to learn. I do not know if it is something that can be taught, or if you somehow know what to do. But I was discouraged from even thinking about it.. which I eventually did, with that number seven."
[23:25] Misfit: He nods "I think your people belong on a world where demons maraud and humans kill anything not them. I'm sorry they did that to you"
[23:34] taus.solace: *she lifts her shoulds slightly* "I cannot change what was, and even now, were i to lose both of my arms, it would still be beyond my abilities to use or even learn any other magic." She offers a half-smile. "My only desire now, is to let my people know to not expect me for the marriage ritual, to make other arrangements for the Second which would otherwise still be waiting for their Slayer to return.For a Slayer I may be, I am not one of theirs. Not anymore."
[23:37] taus.solace: "I do not feel that I ever was.. but what a relief it will be to be able to say that, to them"
[23:43] Misfit: He smiles and sueezes your hands. "Then I needn't worry how your people view sharing"
[23:49] taus.solace: her smile widens at his touch, then turns quizzical at his words. "sharing.." she repeats. "In what .. sort of way do you mean that?"
[23:52] Misfit: "I... did not mean to be so forward. I just am enjoying spending time with you"
[00:05] taus.solace: "I am enjoying the time with you as well. It is quite easy to talk to you... when I have kept these things unmentioned for so long. The Patriarch will probably not be happy with the extent of what I have spoken.. but it no longer matters to me. Small price to pay, I think. I would face one day of his anger if I could keep this feeling."
[00:12] taus.solace: "Revealing my heavy thoughts, sharing them, the parts of my past.. have left me feeling..." she pauses for the right word, "Lighter. Content. Almost.. free. I have never experienced these."
[00:12] Misfit: He smiles "I am glad I could help"
[00:15] Misfit: "Amazing how good it feels to share our burdens, isn't it"
[00:17] taus.solace: *she nods and smiles* "I hope it is as easy to tell the Captain, and to the rest. I would not ask anyone to go if they are not willing, but even if only one would accompany me.." she stifles a quiet yawn, grinning sheepishly, "I would be able to face the enxt step that much easily."
[00:18] Misfit: "It is growing late and I have watch. Shall we share warmpth tonight? I believe your turn is tomorrow"
[00:24] taus.solace: she nods with a grateful smile. "I have grown accustomed to long days, long nights.. a few hours sleep here and there. Such is the life of a Slayer. But talking as we have been, feels more draining than even a week of 24-hour days. I would not be surprised if I start to doze after we continue our ride."
[00:25] Misfit: "Throw your sleeping roll over the blanket and we will use mine for cover then"
[00:27] taus.solace: *she does not have to move far to reach her roll, but gets up so she can unroll it over the blanket*
[00:28] Misfit: He gets out of the way and carries the dishes back to Nils, who is on first watch. Per, please
[00:29] taus.solace: d20 right?
[00:29] Misfit: Yeah
[00:30] taus.solace: 19
[00:30] Misfit: You catch nils say something, to which Lery shrugs and comes back over, while leaving Nils shaking his head
[00:33] taus.solace: While she is settling in, she quirks a curious expression. "What was that about?"
[00:34] Misfit: "He was giving me grief that I don't stay true to the sea"
[00:38] Misfit: He shrugs "Nevermind Nils. He's... well, he's German"
[00:41] taus.solace: "I am not certain I understand.. True to the sea in the same sense as, I have been to my duty as a slayer?
[00:42] Misfit: "I told you, the sea is my love. Nils questions me talking to you"
[00:46] taus.solace: she nods, resting her head within the crook of her elbow. "I...think I understand."
[00:48] Misfit: He joyns you under the blanket. "Do you? I am happy to sleep warm, with a friend"
[00:51] taus.solace: "Perhaps in the same way you hinted at having to share...me with my people... if I interpret your earlier comment rightly."
[00:53] Misfit: "Honestly, yes. I've been sailing a long time. I understand how uncertain things can be. For someone special, I can allow room"
[01:01] taus.solace: "I have never traveled by ship before. I cannot imagine there are many skills I possess that are needed on open water. Not that I am unwilling to learn, to try new things..."
[01:04] taus.solace: "we shall see.... what the Fa-- no, what the future holds. The Fates will design my life no longer." she smiles to herself at her own words, her smiles have been becoming broader and more frequent.
[01:05] Misfit: He grins "Are you trying new things now?"
[01:13] taus.solace: her own smile becomes a grin. "Perhaps. When I leave that city which was once my home, it will be for the last time. And, for the first time in my life, I will truly be free to do whatever it is that I want. Whatever it is. Sail on a ship, why not? Plant a garden, maybe. Or even better..." she -almost- breaks into a laugh as she comments, "a rock garden"
[01:14] Misfit: He laughs "Then I will find you beautiful rocks for your garden"
[01:22] taus.solace: she smiles, cupping her hands behind her head as she lays on her back. "the question would be, where to put the garden. No city has been my home in a long time."
[01:23] Misfit: "For now, how about Juarez. The Captain seems to be making it her home port, for now at least"
[01:29] taus.solace: "that sounds as good an idea as any, though I suppse I will need to find a place--or make one. Living in the out-of-doors did offer me one thing. I was never for lack of a house, I simply made my own."
[01:30] Misfit: "I have a room of my own, or you may take one as well, at the orphanage"
[01:36] taus.solace: "I will wait to decide. First, to return to my homeland for the first---and final---time. But before even that, sleep."
[01:36] Misfit: He nods and both sleep
