Post by sawg138 on Jul 5, 2013 21:31:04 GMT -5
Elizabeth: Here's the setup I was going for: Niasa had overheard the exchange between LG and Cody about names.. and that got her thoughts flowing.
Elizabeth: she had got a bit upset by it all, and had a chat with Lery.. who had suggested she talk to Elex.. (but as Elex's player is busy busy) she could have run into Cody while on the way
Robby: oh right, on the deck when Cody thought LG was pitching a fit and he tried to avoid conflict yet stood up for himself
Elizabeth: yeah.. but he and LG disappeared.. and figure that while she's looking for Elex, maybe they teleported back, so she finds him first
Robby: sounds about right. they weren't gone very long.
Robby: so, with the "Dark Cody" that trashed the town when everyone knew that "real Cody" was dead, it's probably not a good idea for him to be walking openly in town right now. Besides, the Psykes are still probably peeved that Cody's head left one of their best guys a drooling lamp post licker. So he could probably be found easily on the ship somewhere, possibly tuning his guitar
Robby: say near the bow, sitting up on the long spar thing that goes out over the water that the sails tie to up front
27 Jan 103 PA on the foredeck of the Revenge
Niasa is stalking through the boat, obviously looking for someone.... she stops when she spots Cody and starts to curl her hands into balled fists. She approaches with purpose.. and as she draws near he'd notice two things: First, her hair is drastically shorter than it was when last he saw her, and second, she is no longer wearing the leather outfit he always saw her in, but a green jewel-toned, low-cut blouse, sleeves that end at her elbows, and fitted jeans. (not sure he would even recognize her as Niasa....especially as she is without tattoos)
Cody *staring out at the dockside* "once there was a man.... and he lived to sing the lion's song... as he traveled on the road of hope....." )( Pat Benetar - One Love (Song of the Lion).mp3 )(
Niasa has the overall appearance of one of the pirates as she makes her approach, but there is something about the way she studies him as she approaches..
Cody looks over, his fingers gently silencing the strings, his eyes making a quick, unconscious threat assessment, deciding that if she wanted to hurt him, physically, she'd have tried already, but he senses a tension.... just before he recognizes her.
Robby: Cody "Niasa? "uh... you look well. that color becomes you"
*gives a slight nod, but takes a moment before she speaks, a mixture of uncertainty and anger bubbling underneath the surface* "Good of you to remember my name. At our last parting you had forgotten. But this is the only name that is to be remembered, and used, more especially because of where we are going."
Cody winces slightly "I remember. And I deserved that. I wont forget, Niasa." *uncomfortable pause* "Uh, so... are you in disguise, or simply changing your profession permanently?"
*tightens her jaw* "It is not wise for me to go to Africa as you had seen when last you saw me.. This is the only way I could consider.... returning to Africa, though I had long ago decided that once I left, I would never again set my eyes on it."
Cody "i didn't realize you'd come from there. I'd imagine you'd know better than I what precautions should be seen to."
Niasa "I did not tell the others until just days ago, when they made mention the Horsemen were there. I could not go without taking such precautions.. for I am certain to be other Slayers of my my people there in number as well. If I should be discovered, it would not be well for anyone.. and we as a group have enemies enough already."
Cody nods, frowning slightly, understanding that some of the clans aren't as friendly to their own members as others, and quite a few are very rigid in their interpretations of the old ways.
*turns to look out over the water* "Some months ago, while we had set off to deal with Nigel, a rumor was fabricated that the slayer was dead.. and as long as that name is not used, there is no reason for any to suspect otherwise.... That is why I was so angered at your slip of judgement.. and why I felt more relief at your...passing, that you could not use that name again so loosely."
Cody smiles "So my death helped in some way. Sorry, I don't mean to make light of things. It's just... I've got a very different perspective on things now that I've died. The last almost four years have changed me in ways I couldn't have even imagined before."
*Niasa nods slightly without turning, struggling to keep her emotions in control* "I have many mixed thoughts right now. I did not trust you before, I do not know if I should trust you now... but you should be aware of my reasons, and why that name should. Not. Be. Used. Ever. While it is dead, Niasa can live."
Cody hops down onto the deck, looking up into her eyes "I didn't earn your trust before. And it is something that should be earned, never traded. However, we are about to go forth into danger together. Some of us may not live to see what fate brings us. And I don't know if I can earn your trust. I hope so, but I don't pretend that it will be easy. But know this: I'll not falter by your side, either in camp or in the field of combat. Niasa you are, and to me, Niasa you have always been. That other name.... i don't know that person. So, any secrets that name held, any stain of honor that might still cling to the sound of it, wont come from my lips, ever."
*Niasa shifts her gaze from the water to Cody, her eyes becoming moist as she struggles to keep her emotions in check* "That other person shared her thoughts with very few. Though she tried, she never truly stopped running.. until the day it was discovered that she had died."
Cody "Death *dramatic pause and shy smile* is only the beginning. And new things can come from the death of old things. Good things. Good people"
*Niasa gives a slight nod, attempting a smile of her own* "Much has happened since our parting. Maybe some of those things, are in part... because of it."
Cody "I'd like to think that perhaps some things, while not predetermined by the gods, get a push in the right direction from them. I'm living proof it can happen. Perhaps there was a bit of divine intervention for you as well, sister."
*Niasa clenches and unclenches her fist, more out of habit than true anger* "Do not speak to me of divine intervention. I gave up on such possibilties ages ago. The gods have not shown anything in my favor, now I believe it is as Lery claims.. that we make our own fates, not the gods. You may claim divine intervention, how else would you still be here when your ashes remain within my bag..."
Cody "you... cremated me... and carried me with you?" *Overcome, nearly in tears, he slowly moves forwards and wraps his arms around her middle* "thank you."
*Niasa stands awkwardly for a moment, then slowly lifts her arms to lightly rest them over his shoulders* "I .. was not certain what your funeral customs required.. And while I have no love for most traditions of my people.. it seemed appropriate.. especially with the quantity of undead in the area.. I had thoughts of perhaps returning you to your kin.. or seek a place that held some meaning to you..."
Cody "I have often wondered how i was able to be revived by Apollo. I thought that tattoos that are bound to our flesh and souls would have prevented my soul from traveling into the Elysium.... but in cremating me.... you freed me so that they could bring me back. You.... you helped return me to life. And that is something I can never repay enough."
Niasa "They... the gods.. had explained it to you as such?"
Cody "No. I researched. I asked questions. And, as you can probably guess, you don't always get a direct answer from a god, especially if they've got things to do. I've only spoken with Apollo three times, although I saw him watching me train directly on several occasions and felt what might have been his presence several times over the years. I don't think he is fully interested in everything I'm doing, but I get the sense that he's checking up to see if I was worth his effort. Eros is another story altogether. He'd come visit where I was training often, although I'm sure it was more than just to speak with me. He... he wasn't what I expected him to be. And he's more hands on than Apollo."
*Niasa nods slowly* "I am... glad that I had a part in allowing your second chance. I long felt great guilt for having had a part in your leaving in the way you had, so fierce was my temper."
Cody "You were right to be angry. I was a fool, acting like a spoiled child. I thought.... if I ever saw you again that I was likely to get slapped in the face"
*Niasa falls silent for a moment, shaking her head slowly* "I will not lie. I would not have been so gentle with you as to give a mere slap, had you been found alive after that. If I thought there had were a chance, however small, that you would have again uttered that name, I would have tried to send you to the gods myself, whatever the consequences."
Cody smiles "At least I have an "in" with them now. But I get this feeling.... you have some kind of question for me?"
Niasa "I did. Several of them" *offers a slight smile* "But most have been answered, save for one. I do not rightly know what should be done with your ashes. Of your former life, or what you would desire if you should again leave the mortal realm. Not that it is something I now desire, but we do not the outcome of what we go to face."
Cody "I have an idea. How about we dump them into the ocean, about halfway across? Let them mingle with the waters of this world and maybe nourish life."
*Niasa nods* "Then it will be done."
Cody backs out of the embrace "So... you and Lery?"
*Niasa broadens her smile* "We will be together, for as long as we share this life. He claimed me as a pirate claims a wife."
Cody smiles huge "That sounds like it makes you immensely happy."
*she nods, her smile unfading* "He gave me many reasons to want to live and see the world.. when I had long struggled to figure out what my purpose was, after.. after that other had died. And even before, when she could only hide. He accepted me when I could not even accept myself, and his encouragement has been ever present.. when most I needed it."
Cody "I'd bet he needed it too. It's not everyday you find someone you want to protect and keep with you forever. I hope that luck finds me one day too."
Niasa "Forever is a long time.. and if he is able to reach the end of his natural life, I will be there at his side, appearing not too much older as I am now." *smiles sadly* "The thought that he is only mortal is not far from my mind... but it does little to diminish my feelings for him. Even if I could only have one and no other for as long as I should live, I would choose no other."
Cody "That's kinda beautiful."
Niasa "He has said he would want me to choose again, that I should not choose to be alone.. And in truth, I spent so many years alone, it is not something I would want again. But for now, I have found happiness, the kind I once had never believed possible.. and that is enough."
Cody "You are lucky there. I doubt I'll be so lucky"
*Niasa shakes her head* "You are younger than I, there is time enough to find someone as I have. There was a time, I thought I would never know or find such, that it would be taken from me the moment I found it. Thankfully, I was proven wrong. Perhaps you shall as well."
Cody gets an Ironic Grin, then stares out over the river "Somehow, I think there are other things in store for my immediate future."
Niasa "Immediate future, perhaps.. what with the Horsemen, and others to contend with.." *looks out over the river herself* "But do any of us truly know what the far-off future holds?"
Robby: Cody "Sometimes." *glances sideways* "But I'm not always right"
*Niasa turns to look at him, frowning slightly* "I do not know what to say in response to that. But, I hope we may speak more, later. I do not wish to be so closed to you as I was before, but... at the same, there are things I am not ready to make known to you."
Cody "Thats fair. I don't know what our clans' relationship is, but that's not something i worry about anyways. We fight on the same line, from the same side, Niasa. That's enough for me."
*Niasa starts to say something, then closes her mouth, changing her mind. After a time she speaks* "I will say, I fight on the same side as you. Those of my former clan.. they may fight on the same side as we, until the major threats are dealt with. But I will be seeking to avoid them, as should you. In truth.. I would think it best if you did not call attention to your Marks. My former clan is not the only concern that I have."
Cody "My clan are committed to the fight in Africa. I think i was sent back at this time because they need someone to help understand how best to attack the enemy. I sort of have this gift for strategy and tactics. It's probably part of the reason the gods brought me back and had me train so hard those four years."
Niasa "That is as much as I can say, at this time.. Those others with similar marks among the crew, I suggested their markings be concealed, lest they become targeted after our mutual enemies are no longer a threat."
Cody "Well, i do have a history of keeping my marks well hidden. You're not the first altantean to make use of body paint. Had the worst time trying to get my tan back where it ought to be for the paint to match up. It's not easy running under the sun when it shines about 4 hours less than it does here each day"
*Niasa smiles slightly* "I will not take full credit, for the paint is not of my crafting. Should you return with us to Juarez, if I have no reasons to rethink it, perhaps I should let you meet the one responsible."
Cody "No need. we will likely be gone a long time in Africa. The land is vast, if the maps are to be trusted. Our quarry will not be too terribly hard to find, but I have this feeling they wont go down easy, and will likely inspire small armies to their side. Deception at the personal level will be the least of our worries. Besides.... I have this sneaking suspicion that there are other forces at work here. Something big is already happening in Africa and many people are trying to make something of it, whether the Horsemen are defeated or not."he glances out over the river "I fear we're goin in over our heads, but what choice do we have?"
*Niasa shrugs slightly* "We can do only what we can.. and my intent is to minimize that which we will become involved with after the Horsemen are dealt with."
Cody "one step at a time. besides.... we still have that ocean to cross. Many things could happen at sea. Heck.. i might even find the b.... (blush) er, find someone to spend time with. But it's just as likely that i'll wind up doing most of the crossing showing Elex the sword tricks I picked up during my dead time"
*Niasa nods* "At least you have ideas how to spend the crossing. You have traveled by boat before?"
Cody "A few times, this trip from Africa to Juarez being the longest, by far. It'll likely take us weeks to get to Timbuktu"
*Niasa nods again* "This will be my first. Lery has spoken fondly of the sea, as if he had missed an old friend.. It is my hope for this trip I will find a new friend to become aquainted with...." *looks at Cody more squarely* ".. so far, chances are good that I shall."
Cody "Well, at the very least you'll get to critque my singing. I hope i've improved some" *sighs* "I guess the only ones who haven't seen me yet are Anna, Master Jeff and Sky. They all made it out of Dee Sea alright, didn't they?"
*she nods* "Indeed they did." *looks at him with a sense of curiosity* "Moments ago you thought I came with a question, and while most of them have been answered, there is yet one I would ask... though perhaps it does not matter so much now."
Cody "You'll only know if you ask"
*Niasa nods and continues* "I noticed you spoke with Elexorien and then Little Girl.. and though I was standing not so very far away, you did not seek to speak with me. Is it because of the way we had last parted, or because you did not recognize me, that you did not approach?"
Cody "As far as any of your were concerned, I was just back from the dead. To be honest, while i've thought about what it would be like showing up in Juarez still breathing, I had a piece of good advise given me before I was dropped back on this world. I was told.... it's not always easy to simply rise above deep water, sometimes you have to approach the further shore gradually and let the land come up to meet you even as you seek the shore yourself."
Cody shrugs "I know, sometimes the elders speak exclusively in metaphor and allegory. Took me a moment to piece together what he'd said."
"When the world shifts suddenly, you have to react. But when it changes and you don't realize it for a while, it may take a moment to understand the changes, ever to question them. It's the same here. When I just showed up... well, I think Master Elex felt it as soon as he got within spitting distance of the dock. And Ki.... I mean, our dragon friend knew shortly after he did. Everyone else, well... they needed time to figure out what they believe, what they think they see, and if they trusted their senses." *Cody shrugs his shoulders* "Besides.... I wasn't in a hurry to get my face slapped"
Niasa "If I had thought you were the same as when you ... left, I would have done that, perhaps more. As I had mentioned, it was several weeks before I could calm my anger, before it became my guilt. I eventually came to realize, I could be to blame as well.. for not having the foresight to offer a different name when I first met this group, then there would have been no questions, no confusion.. But I expected only to be in Juarez a few weeks, help rebuild, then return to my exile, my solitude."
Cody "Speaking of slapping my face... I don't see Cleo anywhere. Is she still in Juarez. I have to apologize to her as well."
Niasa "I have not seen her in quite some time. Once we had all arrived back in Juarez, I and some of the others set out again almost at once. I do not know if she left prior to our departure, or while we were gone. Anna may know more than I, for she was among those who stayed behind."
Cody nods solemnly "So, she's not in Juarez? Humm, Anna.... she's likely to tan my hide good"
Niasa "I have also been kept... occupied since my second arrival to Juarez, so I do not know much of what the others have been up to since we have been back."
Cody nods. then gets a wide eyed look, his mouth dropping open. "ohh. " then he blushes almost scarlet from the neck up "Uhm, okay... "
*Niasa lifts an eyebrow* "Whatever your thoughts.. they are likely not accurate, but I will not elaborate."
Cody "Probably for the best" Cody's face returns to normal color
*Niasa nods* "When and if there is reason I think you should know, I will tell you. But I say again, it is not for the reasons you may be thinking. I am no mind-reader, but given the color of your blush.." *simply shakes her head*
Cody "sorry. can't help it. I might be almost four years older, but the body is still stuck at 14. Hormones have been hitting a lot lately in wierd ways. Wierdest is that my voice isn't all squeeky yet, like it was just starting to get last time.... strange to think that I was killed about a month ago your time, but I spent nearly four years running around the universe doing odd jobs for the gods and my clan."
"I guess I should go and congratulate Lery and let him take a poke at my jaw for insulting his fiancee a month back."
Niasa "I had just come from speaking with him.." *shakes her head slightly* "..I was more visibly shaken, and in truth had sought to speak with Elexorien after I left him... but it was you I had found first. Do you wish me to return to him, to soften the blow, so to speak, or do you wish to take your chances at speaking with him yourself?"
Cody "Well, I can't tell you what to do. Part of me says he's kinda a practical guy who knows a thing or two about a thing or two and he'll make his plans to discuss his displeasure when he's ready. Part of me wants to get it over with, take my licks and get back to business. But, I figure what's best here is to let him decide on his own. Heck, he might talk to you about us talkin now and then decide his path. Either way, don't worry. I'm not gonna draw my blade on him or resist too much. It's a guy thing. I won't sully his honor or his right to defend it, or yours, no matter that you could likely eviserate me just about any time you chose to."
*Niasa smiles slightly* "Do not tempt me. I still do not have much trust of the gods, and someone I had not trusted before, who then subsequently died is now back among the living, returned to life by the gods.. I haven't decided whether I can give my full trust, even if I had played a part in the return.. but that we have been able to speak this long and I have not yet had the urge to slap you, it is a start."
"I should finish getting settled in.. but I am glad that I chose to speak with you. What had happened seems further behind now, than when I first had spotted you."
Cody "Niasa?"
*Niasa lifts an eyebrow, waiting*
Cody "Does it... anger you that I call you sister at times? There are so few connections left to family in my life. My mother is gone to Elysium, my father is gods alone knows where.... when i saw you that first time, it was like... like there was a connection back to a family and clan and people i thought i'd lost forever. If it angers you, I'll stop."
Niasa "Anger is not the word I would use, not for that.. I was not understanding why you used the term when I spoke so little to you. For those first months I traveled with the group, I sought to not grow close to anyone.. I believed I was destined to be alone, undeserving of happiness, or friends, or anything deeper, because I chose to break away from my own clan... I had been...afraid of having such bonds.. believing that if something happened to those around me, I could be to blame.... It was forbidden to speak of the traditions or even mention of that clan, outside of the walls of its city.. and I was very certain I would bring about some doom to this group, because of the little I had shared. That Nigel was able to get in your head, did not help... but as time went by, and the worst that happened was your death, even as I had shared more with Lery.. those fears, I eventually realized, were unfounded."
Cody "Perhaps, since you've already realized this in part yourself, you should see that your clan was wrong about a great many things. IF it becomes possible, I'd like you to see my clan's home. Perhaps it will enlighten you."
Niasa "I will think on it. And I will mention, before I chose to conceal my marks through body paint, I did have one thought, about the Mark that most identified me as a member of a clan.." *swallows hard* "I had considered, for a time after your death, that if I could find the right sort in Juarez, perhaps I could have them draw over my sword, to replace it with a near-duplicate of yours.. though I knew little of your people, it would perhaps be safer than to continue to bear the mark of those I had come from."
Cody looks down to the sword drawn on his right inner wrist "If it is possible, perhaps my people will know of a way to... to alter a mark. I can't see how such a thing would be easy, either technically or just on you. I... had my tattoos applied again only three years ago. I remember the pain in my sleep sometimes. But, if that is something you want to pursue.... I can ask. The elders may consider it a mercy to provide such a service."
*Niasa shakes her head* "It is not necessary now to consider it..." *turns both her wrists* "It is as though I have never had a mark upon me."
Cody nods. "Much to think on. But for now, I think you are right. This is a moment of preparation and industry. We can speculate later. Welcome aboard"
*Niasa smiles* "Thank you. And to you I say, welcome back."
Elizabeth: she had got a bit upset by it all, and had a chat with Lery.. who had suggested she talk to Elex.. (but as Elex's player is busy busy) she could have run into Cody while on the way
Robby: oh right, on the deck when Cody thought LG was pitching a fit and he tried to avoid conflict yet stood up for himself
Elizabeth: yeah.. but he and LG disappeared.. and figure that while she's looking for Elex, maybe they teleported back, so she finds him first
Robby: sounds about right. they weren't gone very long.
Robby: so, with the "Dark Cody" that trashed the town when everyone knew that "real Cody" was dead, it's probably not a good idea for him to be walking openly in town right now. Besides, the Psykes are still probably peeved that Cody's head left one of their best guys a drooling lamp post licker. So he could probably be found easily on the ship somewhere, possibly tuning his guitar
Robby: say near the bow, sitting up on the long spar thing that goes out over the water that the sails tie to up front
27 Jan 103 PA on the foredeck of the Revenge
Niasa is stalking through the boat, obviously looking for someone.... she stops when she spots Cody and starts to curl her hands into balled fists. She approaches with purpose.. and as she draws near he'd notice two things: First, her hair is drastically shorter than it was when last he saw her, and second, she is no longer wearing the leather outfit he always saw her in, but a green jewel-toned, low-cut blouse, sleeves that end at her elbows, and fitted jeans. (not sure he would even recognize her as Niasa....especially as she is without tattoos)
Cody *staring out at the dockside* "once there was a man.... and he lived to sing the lion's song... as he traveled on the road of hope....." )( Pat Benetar - One Love (Song of the Lion).mp3 )(
Niasa has the overall appearance of one of the pirates as she makes her approach, but there is something about the way she studies him as she approaches..
Cody looks over, his fingers gently silencing the strings, his eyes making a quick, unconscious threat assessment, deciding that if she wanted to hurt him, physically, she'd have tried already, but he senses a tension.... just before he recognizes her.
Robby: Cody "Niasa? "uh... you look well. that color becomes you"
*gives a slight nod, but takes a moment before she speaks, a mixture of uncertainty and anger bubbling underneath the surface* "Good of you to remember my name. At our last parting you had forgotten. But this is the only name that is to be remembered, and used, more especially because of where we are going."
Cody winces slightly "I remember. And I deserved that. I wont forget, Niasa." *uncomfortable pause* "Uh, so... are you in disguise, or simply changing your profession permanently?"
*tightens her jaw* "It is not wise for me to go to Africa as you had seen when last you saw me.. This is the only way I could consider.... returning to Africa, though I had long ago decided that once I left, I would never again set my eyes on it."
Cody "i didn't realize you'd come from there. I'd imagine you'd know better than I what precautions should be seen to."
Niasa "I did not tell the others until just days ago, when they made mention the Horsemen were there. I could not go without taking such precautions.. for I am certain to be other Slayers of my my people there in number as well. If I should be discovered, it would not be well for anyone.. and we as a group have enemies enough already."
Cody nods, frowning slightly, understanding that some of the clans aren't as friendly to their own members as others, and quite a few are very rigid in their interpretations of the old ways.
*turns to look out over the water* "Some months ago, while we had set off to deal with Nigel, a rumor was fabricated that the slayer was dead.. and as long as that name is not used, there is no reason for any to suspect otherwise.... That is why I was so angered at your slip of judgement.. and why I felt more relief at your...passing, that you could not use that name again so loosely."
Cody smiles "So my death helped in some way. Sorry, I don't mean to make light of things. It's just... I've got a very different perspective on things now that I've died. The last almost four years have changed me in ways I couldn't have even imagined before."
*Niasa nods slightly without turning, struggling to keep her emotions in control* "I have many mixed thoughts right now. I did not trust you before, I do not know if I should trust you now... but you should be aware of my reasons, and why that name should. Not. Be. Used. Ever. While it is dead, Niasa can live."
Cody hops down onto the deck, looking up into her eyes "I didn't earn your trust before. And it is something that should be earned, never traded. However, we are about to go forth into danger together. Some of us may not live to see what fate brings us. And I don't know if I can earn your trust. I hope so, but I don't pretend that it will be easy. But know this: I'll not falter by your side, either in camp or in the field of combat. Niasa you are, and to me, Niasa you have always been. That other name.... i don't know that person. So, any secrets that name held, any stain of honor that might still cling to the sound of it, wont come from my lips, ever."
*Niasa shifts her gaze from the water to Cody, her eyes becoming moist as she struggles to keep her emotions in check* "That other person shared her thoughts with very few. Though she tried, she never truly stopped running.. until the day it was discovered that she had died."
Cody "Death *dramatic pause and shy smile* is only the beginning. And new things can come from the death of old things. Good things. Good people"
*Niasa gives a slight nod, attempting a smile of her own* "Much has happened since our parting. Maybe some of those things, are in part... because of it."
Cody "I'd like to think that perhaps some things, while not predetermined by the gods, get a push in the right direction from them. I'm living proof it can happen. Perhaps there was a bit of divine intervention for you as well, sister."
*Niasa clenches and unclenches her fist, more out of habit than true anger* "Do not speak to me of divine intervention. I gave up on such possibilties ages ago. The gods have not shown anything in my favor, now I believe it is as Lery claims.. that we make our own fates, not the gods. You may claim divine intervention, how else would you still be here when your ashes remain within my bag..."
Cody "you... cremated me... and carried me with you?" *Overcome, nearly in tears, he slowly moves forwards and wraps his arms around her middle* "thank you."
*Niasa stands awkwardly for a moment, then slowly lifts her arms to lightly rest them over his shoulders* "I .. was not certain what your funeral customs required.. And while I have no love for most traditions of my people.. it seemed appropriate.. especially with the quantity of undead in the area.. I had thoughts of perhaps returning you to your kin.. or seek a place that held some meaning to you..."
Cody "I have often wondered how i was able to be revived by Apollo. I thought that tattoos that are bound to our flesh and souls would have prevented my soul from traveling into the Elysium.... but in cremating me.... you freed me so that they could bring me back. You.... you helped return me to life. And that is something I can never repay enough."
Niasa "They... the gods.. had explained it to you as such?"
Cody "No. I researched. I asked questions. And, as you can probably guess, you don't always get a direct answer from a god, especially if they've got things to do. I've only spoken with Apollo three times, although I saw him watching me train directly on several occasions and felt what might have been his presence several times over the years. I don't think he is fully interested in everything I'm doing, but I get the sense that he's checking up to see if I was worth his effort. Eros is another story altogether. He'd come visit where I was training often, although I'm sure it was more than just to speak with me. He... he wasn't what I expected him to be. And he's more hands on than Apollo."
*Niasa nods slowly* "I am... glad that I had a part in allowing your second chance. I long felt great guilt for having had a part in your leaving in the way you had, so fierce was my temper."
Cody "You were right to be angry. I was a fool, acting like a spoiled child. I thought.... if I ever saw you again that I was likely to get slapped in the face"
*Niasa falls silent for a moment, shaking her head slowly* "I will not lie. I would not have been so gentle with you as to give a mere slap, had you been found alive after that. If I thought there had were a chance, however small, that you would have again uttered that name, I would have tried to send you to the gods myself, whatever the consequences."
Cody smiles "At least I have an "in" with them now. But I get this feeling.... you have some kind of question for me?"
Niasa "I did. Several of them" *offers a slight smile* "But most have been answered, save for one. I do not rightly know what should be done with your ashes. Of your former life, or what you would desire if you should again leave the mortal realm. Not that it is something I now desire, but we do not the outcome of what we go to face."
Cody "I have an idea. How about we dump them into the ocean, about halfway across? Let them mingle with the waters of this world and maybe nourish life."
*Niasa nods* "Then it will be done."
Cody backs out of the embrace "So... you and Lery?"
*Niasa broadens her smile* "We will be together, for as long as we share this life. He claimed me as a pirate claims a wife."
Cody smiles huge "That sounds like it makes you immensely happy."
*she nods, her smile unfading* "He gave me many reasons to want to live and see the world.. when I had long struggled to figure out what my purpose was, after.. after that other had died. And even before, when she could only hide. He accepted me when I could not even accept myself, and his encouragement has been ever present.. when most I needed it."
Cody "I'd bet he needed it too. It's not everyday you find someone you want to protect and keep with you forever. I hope that luck finds me one day too."
Niasa "Forever is a long time.. and if he is able to reach the end of his natural life, I will be there at his side, appearing not too much older as I am now." *smiles sadly* "The thought that he is only mortal is not far from my mind... but it does little to diminish my feelings for him. Even if I could only have one and no other for as long as I should live, I would choose no other."
Cody "That's kinda beautiful."
Niasa "He has said he would want me to choose again, that I should not choose to be alone.. And in truth, I spent so many years alone, it is not something I would want again. But for now, I have found happiness, the kind I once had never believed possible.. and that is enough."
Cody "You are lucky there. I doubt I'll be so lucky"
*Niasa shakes her head* "You are younger than I, there is time enough to find someone as I have. There was a time, I thought I would never know or find such, that it would be taken from me the moment I found it. Thankfully, I was proven wrong. Perhaps you shall as well."
Cody gets an Ironic Grin, then stares out over the river "Somehow, I think there are other things in store for my immediate future."
Niasa "Immediate future, perhaps.. what with the Horsemen, and others to contend with.." *looks out over the river herself* "But do any of us truly know what the far-off future holds?"
Robby: Cody "Sometimes." *glances sideways* "But I'm not always right"
*Niasa turns to look at him, frowning slightly* "I do not know what to say in response to that. But, I hope we may speak more, later. I do not wish to be so closed to you as I was before, but... at the same, there are things I am not ready to make known to you."
Cody "Thats fair. I don't know what our clans' relationship is, but that's not something i worry about anyways. We fight on the same line, from the same side, Niasa. That's enough for me."
*Niasa starts to say something, then closes her mouth, changing her mind. After a time she speaks* "I will say, I fight on the same side as you. Those of my former clan.. they may fight on the same side as we, until the major threats are dealt with. But I will be seeking to avoid them, as should you. In truth.. I would think it best if you did not call attention to your Marks. My former clan is not the only concern that I have."
Cody "My clan are committed to the fight in Africa. I think i was sent back at this time because they need someone to help understand how best to attack the enemy. I sort of have this gift for strategy and tactics. It's probably part of the reason the gods brought me back and had me train so hard those four years."
Niasa "That is as much as I can say, at this time.. Those others with similar marks among the crew, I suggested their markings be concealed, lest they become targeted after our mutual enemies are no longer a threat."
Cody "Well, i do have a history of keeping my marks well hidden. You're not the first altantean to make use of body paint. Had the worst time trying to get my tan back where it ought to be for the paint to match up. It's not easy running under the sun when it shines about 4 hours less than it does here each day"
*Niasa smiles slightly* "I will not take full credit, for the paint is not of my crafting. Should you return with us to Juarez, if I have no reasons to rethink it, perhaps I should let you meet the one responsible."
Cody "No need. we will likely be gone a long time in Africa. The land is vast, if the maps are to be trusted. Our quarry will not be too terribly hard to find, but I have this feeling they wont go down easy, and will likely inspire small armies to their side. Deception at the personal level will be the least of our worries. Besides.... I have this sneaking suspicion that there are other forces at work here. Something big is already happening in Africa and many people are trying to make something of it, whether the Horsemen are defeated or not."he glances out over the river "I fear we're goin in over our heads, but what choice do we have?"
*Niasa shrugs slightly* "We can do only what we can.. and my intent is to minimize that which we will become involved with after the Horsemen are dealt with."
Cody "one step at a time. besides.... we still have that ocean to cross. Many things could happen at sea. Heck.. i might even find the b.... (blush) er, find someone to spend time with. But it's just as likely that i'll wind up doing most of the crossing showing Elex the sword tricks I picked up during my dead time"
*Niasa nods* "At least you have ideas how to spend the crossing. You have traveled by boat before?"
Cody "A few times, this trip from Africa to Juarez being the longest, by far. It'll likely take us weeks to get to Timbuktu"
*Niasa nods again* "This will be my first. Lery has spoken fondly of the sea, as if he had missed an old friend.. It is my hope for this trip I will find a new friend to become aquainted with...." *looks at Cody more squarely* ".. so far, chances are good that I shall."
Cody "Well, at the very least you'll get to critque my singing. I hope i've improved some" *sighs* "I guess the only ones who haven't seen me yet are Anna, Master Jeff and Sky. They all made it out of Dee Sea alright, didn't they?"
*she nods* "Indeed they did." *looks at him with a sense of curiosity* "Moments ago you thought I came with a question, and while most of them have been answered, there is yet one I would ask... though perhaps it does not matter so much now."
Cody "You'll only know if you ask"
*Niasa nods and continues* "I noticed you spoke with Elexorien and then Little Girl.. and though I was standing not so very far away, you did not seek to speak with me. Is it because of the way we had last parted, or because you did not recognize me, that you did not approach?"
Cody "As far as any of your were concerned, I was just back from the dead. To be honest, while i've thought about what it would be like showing up in Juarez still breathing, I had a piece of good advise given me before I was dropped back on this world. I was told.... it's not always easy to simply rise above deep water, sometimes you have to approach the further shore gradually and let the land come up to meet you even as you seek the shore yourself."
Cody shrugs "I know, sometimes the elders speak exclusively in metaphor and allegory. Took me a moment to piece together what he'd said."
"When the world shifts suddenly, you have to react. But when it changes and you don't realize it for a while, it may take a moment to understand the changes, ever to question them. It's the same here. When I just showed up... well, I think Master Elex felt it as soon as he got within spitting distance of the dock. And Ki.... I mean, our dragon friend knew shortly after he did. Everyone else, well... they needed time to figure out what they believe, what they think they see, and if they trusted their senses." *Cody shrugs his shoulders* "Besides.... I wasn't in a hurry to get my face slapped"
Niasa "If I had thought you were the same as when you ... left, I would have done that, perhaps more. As I had mentioned, it was several weeks before I could calm my anger, before it became my guilt. I eventually came to realize, I could be to blame as well.. for not having the foresight to offer a different name when I first met this group, then there would have been no questions, no confusion.. But I expected only to be in Juarez a few weeks, help rebuild, then return to my exile, my solitude."
Cody "Speaking of slapping my face... I don't see Cleo anywhere. Is she still in Juarez. I have to apologize to her as well."
Niasa "I have not seen her in quite some time. Once we had all arrived back in Juarez, I and some of the others set out again almost at once. I do not know if she left prior to our departure, or while we were gone. Anna may know more than I, for she was among those who stayed behind."
Cody nods solemnly "So, she's not in Juarez? Humm, Anna.... she's likely to tan my hide good"
Niasa "I have also been kept... occupied since my second arrival to Juarez, so I do not know much of what the others have been up to since we have been back."
Cody nods. then gets a wide eyed look, his mouth dropping open. "ohh. " then he blushes almost scarlet from the neck up "Uhm, okay... "
*Niasa lifts an eyebrow* "Whatever your thoughts.. they are likely not accurate, but I will not elaborate."
Cody "Probably for the best" Cody's face returns to normal color
*Niasa nods* "When and if there is reason I think you should know, I will tell you. But I say again, it is not for the reasons you may be thinking. I am no mind-reader, but given the color of your blush.." *simply shakes her head*
Cody "sorry. can't help it. I might be almost four years older, but the body is still stuck at 14. Hormones have been hitting a lot lately in wierd ways. Wierdest is that my voice isn't all squeeky yet, like it was just starting to get last time.... strange to think that I was killed about a month ago your time, but I spent nearly four years running around the universe doing odd jobs for the gods and my clan."
"I guess I should go and congratulate Lery and let him take a poke at my jaw for insulting his fiancee a month back."
Niasa "I had just come from speaking with him.." *shakes her head slightly* "..I was more visibly shaken, and in truth had sought to speak with Elexorien after I left him... but it was you I had found first. Do you wish me to return to him, to soften the blow, so to speak, or do you wish to take your chances at speaking with him yourself?"
Cody "Well, I can't tell you what to do. Part of me says he's kinda a practical guy who knows a thing or two about a thing or two and he'll make his plans to discuss his displeasure when he's ready. Part of me wants to get it over with, take my licks and get back to business. But, I figure what's best here is to let him decide on his own. Heck, he might talk to you about us talkin now and then decide his path. Either way, don't worry. I'm not gonna draw my blade on him or resist too much. It's a guy thing. I won't sully his honor or his right to defend it, or yours, no matter that you could likely eviserate me just about any time you chose to."
*Niasa smiles slightly* "Do not tempt me. I still do not have much trust of the gods, and someone I had not trusted before, who then subsequently died is now back among the living, returned to life by the gods.. I haven't decided whether I can give my full trust, even if I had played a part in the return.. but that we have been able to speak this long and I have not yet had the urge to slap you, it is a start."
"I should finish getting settled in.. but I am glad that I chose to speak with you. What had happened seems further behind now, than when I first had spotted you."
Cody "Niasa?"
*Niasa lifts an eyebrow, waiting*
Cody "Does it... anger you that I call you sister at times? There are so few connections left to family in my life. My mother is gone to Elysium, my father is gods alone knows where.... when i saw you that first time, it was like... like there was a connection back to a family and clan and people i thought i'd lost forever. If it angers you, I'll stop."
Niasa "Anger is not the word I would use, not for that.. I was not understanding why you used the term when I spoke so little to you. For those first months I traveled with the group, I sought to not grow close to anyone.. I believed I was destined to be alone, undeserving of happiness, or friends, or anything deeper, because I chose to break away from my own clan... I had been...afraid of having such bonds.. believing that if something happened to those around me, I could be to blame.... It was forbidden to speak of the traditions or even mention of that clan, outside of the walls of its city.. and I was very certain I would bring about some doom to this group, because of the little I had shared. That Nigel was able to get in your head, did not help... but as time went by, and the worst that happened was your death, even as I had shared more with Lery.. those fears, I eventually realized, were unfounded."
Cody "Perhaps, since you've already realized this in part yourself, you should see that your clan was wrong about a great many things. IF it becomes possible, I'd like you to see my clan's home. Perhaps it will enlighten you."
Niasa "I will think on it. And I will mention, before I chose to conceal my marks through body paint, I did have one thought, about the Mark that most identified me as a member of a clan.." *swallows hard* "I had considered, for a time after your death, that if I could find the right sort in Juarez, perhaps I could have them draw over my sword, to replace it with a near-duplicate of yours.. though I knew little of your people, it would perhaps be safer than to continue to bear the mark of those I had come from."
Cody looks down to the sword drawn on his right inner wrist "If it is possible, perhaps my people will know of a way to... to alter a mark. I can't see how such a thing would be easy, either technically or just on you. I... had my tattoos applied again only three years ago. I remember the pain in my sleep sometimes. But, if that is something you want to pursue.... I can ask. The elders may consider it a mercy to provide such a service."
*Niasa shakes her head* "It is not necessary now to consider it..." *turns both her wrists* "It is as though I have never had a mark upon me."
Cody nods. "Much to think on. But for now, I think you are right. This is a moment of preparation and industry. We can speculate later. Welcome aboard"
*Niasa smiles* "Thank you. And to you I say, welcome back."
