[So you are at Frubi's house, and you, and Julie, and her, have been spending the last hour or two (or three!) preparing for this party. At the moment, Julie is out of the bedroom, as is Frubi, and you are alone with your ribbon-like outfit, although Frubi gave you a different one, that was a deep, almost water-like blue. Quite beautiful.] [You know that the time is approaching! You also haven't eaten yet, nor seen Taki in a while, and it is about 6 hours after you arrived.] [WNN: Session 3: Arisa side! Start!] * Arisa sits on the bed, looking down at the ground slightly and thinking a little before she slowly gets up. As she does so, she tugs the ribbon down at the back. It keeps riding up. ;_; (If you look at the data-page, you can get a 'better' description of how the ribbon outfit works.) (Gotcha) [Frubi walks into the room, wearing a beautiful sparkly green gul'tari. She looks at you and smiles happily. "It's almost time. We just finished Jul'pmak'guby's... kunj'lo'nap." She says the word as if it is unfamiliar. * Arisa tilts her head to the side at Frubi's entrance. "Kunjulowhato?" [Frubi says slowly, "Kunj'lo'nap... it's apparently a traditional form of Op'Hak dress for females." She chuckles. "Not as beautiful as a gul'tari, but I suppose their tastes run differently."] Everyone has a different sort of...fashion on their world.. [Frubi nods, smiling happily. "I suppose that is true." The door creaks with motion, and Frubi turns to it, her eyes alight.] * Arisa tugs a little at the Gul'tari, looking at her back. "I'm not entirely sure myself..." She smiles bashfully back at Frubi. "But I did promise I'd wear it..." She cuts herself off as she looks at the door. [Julie walks in, wearing a black fashion that is a little closer to Arisa's version of 'traditional'. The top is tight on her, and you aren't sure of the fabric. There are a number of strategic cuts in the fabric, at the navel (of which she has no bellybutton), along the sides, and between the breasts. It goes all the way up her arms as well. Below the waist, it is not tight, but it is sheer... (cont)] [...going straight down her legs, with a long slit along her right side, and a shorter one down her left. Almost ruining the very nice effect is a pair of shoes that look sota like a pair of black bricks.] * Arisa smiles at her. "You're ready." She turns to Frubi. "It's a shame the other one wouldn't come though.." [Frubi frowns a little, saying, "Taki? Yes, it is." Julie picks up the scythe and actually manages to strap it to her back: Apparently, the fashion is more practical for combat as well. Frubi finishes, "But I think she needed someting else... even if I think that a deep scarlet would look beautiful on her."] [Julie turns towards you and smiles. You can probably tell she's standing differently, in this dress, than she normally was before.] Mmm... * Arisa cups her hand underneath her chin and rests her head on it, looking at Julie thoughtfully. "I couldn't say for certain...I've never been one for fashion myself..." [Julie chuckles faintly. "I do not understand Ru'Hak fashion myself either, but with an outfit like that," she gestures at your gul'tari, "I am sure there's something for us to learn from it."] * Arisa hmmphs and mumbles a little as she puts her hands down in front of her. "I've learned this thing takes some getting used to moving in if that counts.." [Julie grins and walks over to her. "Well, perhaps next time, we can make one of your... human or elfan fahions too." As she moves, the top clings to her like a glove. Frubi watches it and seems to murmur something under her breath with a disapproving look in her eyes.] * Arisa nods and takes a deep breath. "I hope Miss Shimiru is okay..." [Frubi smiles and pats Arisa on her bare arm. "I am sure she is. She helped defeat Vrr'pmak'ruex."] * Arisa frowns. "That's not quite what I mean...but..shall we go to the party?" She tries to smile. [Julie nods along, then nods at that too. Frubi nods. "It is about time. We should begin the walk." She turns and leaves, leaving you and Julie alone. Julie looks at you expectantly.] * Arisa blinks. "The walk...?" * Arisa uhs and starts out hesitantly after Frubi. [Frubi says, "It's just a bit of a walk to Ru'Nalo'Jm'Rokp."] (and I have to STOP grabbing line returns. >_<) [Julie follows you out, and closes the door after you all. Frubi leads you towards the main room, where Guna waits, wearing a clean robe, much like his normal one. However, he is also wearing a circlet-type hat, and bracelets.] [Frubi gives Guna a kiss, and turns to the girls. "All ready?"] * Arisa looks over at Guna curiously, then Frubi. "I suppose so.." [Julie nods and says, "Yes." Frubi and Guna lead out, while Julie waits for you to leave once more.] * Arisa gives Julie a strange look for a second before following Frubi/Guna [Julie follows you out, and you can see Hak'cho'lk at dusk. It is not heavily lighted, but you can tell that it is large, even by what little light is left coming from the west, and most of the houses are either big and blocky, or sorta roundish. The largest landmark, and the most well lit is something that looks like a huge inverted bowl. The two Ru'Haks are walking towards it, holding hands. There are still some people out at this time, but only a few seem to be taking notice of another group of people walking through the strests.] * Arisa suddenly seems very nervous. "I'm not sure what I should do..." [Julie smiles faintly, behind you, and says, softly, "Think how I must feel. You're the hero. I... I'm the villain."] * Arisa blushes at that suddenly. "I'm no hero. Not half the one people will think I am.." [Julie mms faintly, and says, "Maybe so, Arisa Lockheed, but at least you are not I." The walk continues through the streets, and they do seem sorta empty for such a large town, so late. The dome looms larger and larger.] * Arisa winces slightly at that, though she's probably facing away from Julie at this time. "Really, there's no need to use my full name. Arisa should suffice." [Julie blinks and says, "Are you sure? I don't really know you that well..."] * Arisa sighs. "Miss Lockheed if you really must...but to call me "Arisa Lockheed" all the time just sounds...odd." [Julie mms, then says, "A... Arisa then." She laughs a little. "It is easier to say than Lockheed."] That's rather the point of it... * Arisa shrugs a little. "We're not as careful with our names like that...I suppose we should be.. [Julie mms noncomittally. The dome looms even larger, and now more people are in the streets. Some of them seem to recognize Frubi and greet her. She does not stop, though.] * Arisa stares up at the dome in awe. [The dome certaintly is awe inspiring. More and more people seem to be taking notice of you, but Frubi seems to be leading you quickly enough that nobody is able to stop you. You are approaching the gates of this great dome. Julie says, softly, obviously awed as well, "What masterful work must have been done..."] * Arisa nods softly, still staring at it. [You approach the gates, and the guards, seeing Frubi and Guna, give your group wide berth. At least, until after you. One of them speaks up, saying nastily, "What is someone like her doing here!" A few of the other Ru'Hak, in the light of the dome, make similar statements.] * Arisa looks about at who exactly they're talking about. Most likely Julie but in case it's her too, which would be ungood. (It's just Julie, as you are just inside the gates.) [Guna and Frubi turn around, to look at the growing conflict. Julie seems frightened for a second, but then stands tall, which is still shorter than the female of the two guards.] * Arisa stops and frowns, waiting to see if it gets any worse. [Julie says, "I am Jul'pmak'guby, daughter of Vrr'pmak'ruex. I come here of my free will, hopeful in the new peace."] [Some of the Ru'Hak seem mollified by that. The female guard snorts, and says, "Yet you carry a weapon."] * Arisa hmmphs and steps up, proud. "Excuse me. She's carrying that equipment for ME." [The guards turn to Arisa, and look at her outfit, and then, at least in the female one, the things click together. "You... you're one of the humans that helped... oh, oh. Forgive me." She turns to Julie. "Forgive me, both of you. I..." she trails off and turns away.] She's also both Fru'biop'wau's and my guest tonight, so I'd appreciate you not showing such rudeness to her carrying simple reaping equipment. It's difficult enough to fine-tune the cuts for some of the leaves out there as is.. [Some of the other Ru'Hak look stunned/awed, actually seeing you for the first time, and the male guard gets out of the way, letting Julie through, which she does quickly.] * Arisa starts stuttering at the last as she notices all the stares and takes a step back, blushing. She suddenly looks very self conscious. The hands trying to cover where the gul'tari doesn't shows that. [The male guard looks slightly confused, then shakes his head. "Go ahead, all of you. We're sorry, it's just Nomy..." he trails off, then turns back to the main crowd, which starts filtering through the gates once more.] [The people are still giving you a great amount of attention, even after the male guard's statement. Frubi says, "Come come, now, don't stand around, or we will never get inside."] * Arisa manages to squeak out. "Yes...right." She walks along, keeping her head down, cheeks and ears red, and hands covering her thighs. [Julie follows after you, although her steps sound regular and precice, unhurried at all, on the stone. You are in some sort of large hallway, and it is very noisy maybe 20 meters in front of you, although you can't see why around Frubi. Other Ru'Hak move around you.] * Arisa looks around for a second, still casting her eyes down, saying softly, "I didn't think we'd draw so much attention..." [Julie says, "We are an odd crowd. Some of these people haven't seen an Op'Hak in anything but armor for... a long time. And a human in real clothes too." Frubi adds in, "And the mages that allowed them to stop the war."] * Arisa speaks in hushed whispers. "Real clothes?" [Julie says softly, "Most humans around where I live wear very little at all. There is not much for them... not anymore. They are lucky to have animal skins to protect themselves from the elements as they sleep. I do not know about around here."] [The 20 meters has been closed, and you emerge into a giant stadium setup. There are areas every so often where people seem to be packed together, and many of the Ru'Hak seem to have food, and maybe half of them, although not all, are wearing gul'tari. You are about midway up, and down in the center is a circular stand where lots of people with lots of adornment stand and mill.] [The place is, very simply, just huge. And not even full yet. You cannot even imagine how much of the city must be coming.] [Julie whispers, "It is even more amazing than I thought possible. The ancient Ru'Kahn were incomparable masters."] * Arisa looks around. "At least I'm not alone in that..." SHe turns her gaze to Julie. "So the Ru'Kahn built this place?" [Frubi speaks up. "Ru'Ka--oh, right, Op'Hak term for the Ru'mon. A long time ago, not long before the Gy'rou'mak, yes." A Ru'Hak with plates of food comes up to you all and bows. "Welcome to the ceclebration, honored guests. May I offer you something?"] * Arisa shakes her head. "All these titles are giving me a headache.." She looks at the food. [The food is mainly plant stuff, salads and vegetables and fruits, although Julie's eyes light up at something that looks meaty and she takes some immediately, saying, "Fresh Ba'loo. I didn't know Ru'Hak ate it." Guna chuckles a little and says, "We, ah, don't."] * Arisa gives up on trying to identify and just grabs something that looks good. [There is a lot that looks good. You manage to pick a dark red fruit, perhaps reminiscent of a tomato. Julie has attacked her Ba'loo with an absolute vengance. The two Ru'Hak each take a smattering of veggie stuff.] * Arisa tastes her fruit and wipes her chin, looking around, trying to take this all in. [It's not bad at all. The place is filling up more and more, and people are milling around. The place seems designed for that, with large walkways mixed in with bench areas. It's somewhat noisy, but the atmosphere is indeed somewhat festive. Frubi starts to mill around too, while Guna goes to find a seat elsewhere. Julie finishes the meat dish, and licks her lips. "Mmm. It has been so long."] (Decision time! Do you mill? Do you sit? Do you split off from both of them? Do you run screaming?) (Or do you not respond? ^_^;) (I wake up! ^^;) * Arisa glances at Julie, then the hall. [Julie does not seem pressed by any need to go anywhere, although now that she is done with her meat dish, she is looking down at the podium. Not looking at Arisa for once, it's a shock!] * Arisa sighs. "So it's just us two..?" [Julie blinks and turns to Arisa. "Sorry, I just realized that those must be the Ru'Hak leaders... well, if you would like to catch up with them, I am sure we could." She glances to where Guna is chatting with another male, then at Frubi being a center of attention over elsewhere.] * Arisa blinks a little. "Catch up with? Catch up with what?" She mills about. [Julie tags along. "With Fru'biop'wau, of course." She smiles slightly. "Or we could simply go it on our own." As you start to mill, some of the Ru'Hak notice you. You've both been spotted!] I don't know... * Arisa looks around bashfully. [Some of them close in and introduce themselves. The names are all long and confusing, as we know. They ask you where you come from. One of them asks Julie how it feels to be the daughter of the world's biggest murderer, not in a harsh tone, but it's a harsh question.] * Arisa looks carefully on the one that asked the question. [It's another female Ru'Hak. Julie, for her part, says, firmly, "As bad as you'd expect, I'm sure."] [The Ru'Hak seems slightly mollified, meanwhile, the others await an answer to the question posed at you.] * Arisa blushes. "So many questions...I'm from...well, you wouldn't know it where you're from, but it's really a small village..tnothing like this.. [The Ru'Hak smile and nod, pleased. One comments that she didn't know that Humans had stable villages.] * Arisa shifts. "Well, the 'human' villages there are different than here... as are the spread of 'humans'" [Some of the Ru'Hak nod, murmuring that makes sense. Others seem slightly confused by your mentionn of here and there.] * Arisa blushes a little at their confusion and keeps her feet together, looking down and putting her hands to cover her thighs. She seems extraordinarily embarrassed about the thighs. [A few of the females take notice of that, and smile warmly. The one who asked Julie the mean question says, "You wear a gul'tari well, Arisa Lockheed." She pauses for a second, and says, "What has happened to your face?"] [Julie is still standing nearby, seeming slightly glad to have the focus off of her.] * Arisa eeps and puts her hand to her face. "What? Oh..." She looks even more embarrassed. "It's...nothing. Just something..err...'humans' do when they're put in an awkward situation...I didn't mean to.." [A few of the women ahh. One of the men... short, even for Ru'Hak men, says forcefully, almost arrogantly, "It's alright. Not everyone is as used to humans as I."] * Arisa looks at the man. "Ah...well...I'm not really fully a human. But I can see how you'd make that mistake." She shakes her head to get rid of the embarrassed sensation and smiles at the man. "And your name is...?" [Some of the women, including the talkative forceful one, seem somewhat displeased. Meanwhile, the man says, again with the confidence/arrogance, "I am Ugr'pol'mar, one of the foremost experts on humans among the Ru'Hak."] * Arisa smiles ruefully, folding her knuckles under her chin. "Is that so...?" She gives a slight wink to the rest of the women before turning back to Vurger. "Praytell..how did you come upon this information of the humans?" [Some of the women who were frowning suddenly seem a bit more pleased at your wink. The talkative/mean woman leans over to Julie and says something you can't really hear, while you are occupied. And Ugrar, oblivious at the moment, or maybe distracted by a real human, says, proudly, "I have watched over 14 human tribes for many years."] Watched? Hmm. That doesn't sound entirely...what's the word? Kosher? I mean what would they say, staring at humans all day long...especially since I've heard they wear no clothing? Is that true? * Arisa quirks her eyebrow curiously at Vgrar. [Julie seems slightly taken aback at the mean woman's statement. Some of the other women get where you're going, and the reactions are extremely mixed. Some of them snicker, some of them make a sort of gasping noise.] [Ugrar, in the meantime, says, some of the arrogance being replaced with defensiveness, "Most of them... it depends on the region. Around here many do wear some sort of covering."] Ah...I see.. * Arisa smiles. "Though I'm sure no clothing as interesting as the gul'tari...am I correct? * Arisa turns around and poses in it a little for him. [Ugrar blinks a few times, and then takes a step back, saying in a suddenly nervous voice, "I... yes, mostly mud and plants and... my it has been good meeting you, Arisa Lockheed. I hope to talk to you later." He bows slightly, then hurridly retreats.] [Julie laughs richly, and a few of the Ru'Hak females join her. And a few of the males too. One of the guys says, muttering, "Well, that puts the truth in that, yes it does." The loud talkative one seems greatly pleased at your wit, although no more than a smile is on her lips.] * Arisa chuckles slightly as he leaves and sighs, folding her arms at the wrist in front of her and smiling. "My, he didn't stay long. Such a pity." [The loud/mean one says, with a little amusement, "Not such a pity once you get to know him." Julie edges a little closer to you, and looks at the woman... oddly. If her eyes weren't so damn weird, you might be able to figure out how.] * Arisa strokes her cheek and chin thoughtfully. "Mmm...I can't say I'm entirely too disappointed. Who does he think he is trying to impress?" [Three women say at once, "Everyone," and then fall into a fit of giggles.] [[The loud/mean one notices Julie's movement, and then says, "Despite Ugr's interruption, it was lovely talking to you. My name is Vpl'wag'mar... I hope to get another chance to talk to you later."] * Arisa smiles. "And I as well. I apologize that it was cut so short." [The woman gestures with her hand in a non-threatening manner, and then turns, grabbing a fruit off a plate as she goes. A few more people introduce themselves, but many of them quickly go after Vplar.] [A male and a female stay behind, quietly, and at perhaps a two foot distance. The female's exactly a foot taller than him, and both of them are wearing armor like Frubi's.] * Arisa watches her go, hmming slightly to Julie, not quite noticing the ones remaining. "I doubt you would but would you happen to know if she's anyone important? She seems to have quite a following." [Julie says with a tone of huffy annoyance, glancing after Vplar, "I don't know, but I wish I did. What is with her?"] [The party continues on. Another food tray walks by, if you are hungry. Julie notices it and gleefully grabs some of that Ba'loo dish. The two soldiers stand there silently. The crowd seems to be actively avoiding them.] I'd simply assume that the Op'Hak in general aren't really all that highly thought of considering the circumstances... * Arisa sighs and deflates a little. "It happens everywhere, believe me." [Julie says, around the Ba'loo, "Are humans... or elves, treated..." she pauses for a second, then finishes, "Badly?" Then she chomps. Mmm. Meat.] Mmm...well, the distinctions aren't as...clear where I'm from. You have many nations, not simply one race of each...so there's infighting... * Arisa mutters and folds her arms. "Especially among the humans." [Julie looks slightly confused, then says, "I heard we all used to be like that too... mixed nations."] ["Father was always gathering knowledge about the past."] * Arisa sighs and looks sadly at Julie, dropping her arms. "But now I imagine there's not enough..." [Julie looks down. "Maybe there is, but after all this..." She shakes her head, and looks off where Vplar went. "With devious people like that, who knows." She takes another bite of the Ba'loo. The soldiers contiinue to stand, silent, but watching you. You, not Julie.] [Julie glances at the soldiers, frowns, then looks over at you. "You haven't eaten much. Do all half-elves eat so little?"] Arisa notices that and glances back at the guards, wondering outloud slightly. "Sut n'sanya. I wonder what they're staring at.." [Julie glances at the soldiers, frowns, then looks over at you. "Probably you. You haven't eaten much... Arisa. Do all half-elves eat so little?"] * Arisa turns aside, the "probably you" comment going over her head for the moment. "We...tend not to eat too much, but I can't say the situation hasn't frazzled my nerves enough to ruin my appetite.." She sighs. "I suppose I should eat something.." [There are plenty of food plates wandering around! Julie says, "Should I go get you something? Do you eat meat?"] [The female soldier opens her mouth, but at a shake of the head from the male soldier, that she couldn't have even seen, she closes it again.] (They're also close enough for you to get yourself something.) * Arisa smiles as she turns towards Julie. "Not much, thank you...but I would care for some fruit and or bread if you would be so kind.." I'm not certain what tastes good in this world.. [Julie nods slightly, and takes a few steps aside to assault, well not literally, a food-carrier.] [Meanwhile, the soldiers, as Julie's back is turned, both approach you.] * Arisa watches them approach, looking from one to another in confusion. "Is there a problem..?" [They both say at once. "No, Arisa Lockheed." They bow in time. "We are both deeply thankful for what you did for us, in defeating Vrr'pmak'ruex."] * Arisa blinks as they bow and blushes, squeaking a bit and waving both her hands. "Oh no no no...there's no need, please! I just did what I felt I had to at the time, no more, no less..." [They both smile faintly. "Your modesty is becoming." Julie turns back with food in hand just as they say, "Ru'Wrg'Klu'Pio wishes to speak to you." You hear a soft gasp from Julie.] * Arisa blinks and turns to Julie. "What?" She turns back to the guards. "What? Um...are they important?" [Julie sputters, and says, "She is the legendary Ru'Kahn..." Both soldiers make a face after she says that, while she pauses. She then adds softly, "...the leader of their mystical and military forces."] * Arisa watches Julie as she sputters and goes through the motions and adds, "...oh." [The soldiers nod slightly and say, "That is fairly accurate, Jul'pmak'guby. Will you both please come with us?"] Both of us? * Arisa turns confused at the guards. [Julie seems taken aback at that, but the guards both nod. "Yes. She wishes to see Jul'pmak'guby as well. She would also like to see Taki Shimiru, but has been informed that is not possible."] * Arisa frowns a little and looks at the floor. "Miss Shimiru is...indisposed, yes. She did not feel up to coming..." [They both nod. "So we had heard. Now, if you both please?"] * Arisa glances over at Juli silently before making a move to follow the guards. [Julie glances back, and you can tell she is a bit nervous, but then she pulls herself up, stands tall, and follows. She offers Arisa the food. They do indeed have something that looks like bread here, and definitely have fruit. She got three kinds. Red, Orange, and Green.] * Arisa smiles faintly at Julie. "Thank you." She takes the red fruit and the bread and tastes a bit of it. [The fruit is nice. It tastes like an apple, but it's even 'meatier', jucier. The bread is a tough wheat. Julie smiles very faintly at your thanks, but then her 'game' face is back on. Meanwhile, the crowd parts before the soldiers. And very little of it seems to be fear. Some people even bow to them im passing.] [And then some of them bow just as deeply to you.] * Arisa watches the crowds reaction and whispers to Julie. "Is this normal behavior? They seem kind of skittish.." [Julie whispers back, "The soldiers must also be Ru'Kahn. Very powerful. And you... well, you saved them from my father."] * Arisa sighs. "I know very well why they're bowing to me...much to my chagrin.." [Julie smiles a little teasingly, and says, "You are often embarassed, Arisa."] [Other than what's surrounding you, the place seems to have become nearly packed with people. It's loud, too. And you are all approaching a large hallway.] * Arisa groans at that and rolls her eyes, facing forward. "It isn't as if I attempt to be..but I always find myself in the most dreadful predicaments..." [The four of you enter the hallway, and the hub-ub gets quieter. Julie says, still with a grin, "Still, you handled that human expert well. Embarasssment or no?"] * Arisa blushes slightly at that. "Well I..." She turns her cheek aside. "Let's just say I've dealt with "his type" before.." [Julie nods, and says, "Haven't we all." The guards take a turn before hitting the exit gates. It's not quite silent here, but it's pretty close considering what's happening above.] [They say, "We are almost there."] * Arisa nods and waits. [Julie takes a deep breath as the guards approach a door. It's not a particularly noticeable door, except for the lack of handle, but the male touches it, and it slides sideways into the wall. Whoosh!] * Arisa comments quietly, "I have to admit, the telekinetic prowess of the Ru's are amazing..." [Julie says softly, "Yes..." and then gasps when the guards go into the room.] [Inside is a simple chamber, with a few of the large seats. Enough for all of you, and a few more besides. In one of them is a woman who, while not as tall as Frubi, nontheless looks terribly impressive. Perhaps it is the fact that she looks to literally be wearing rock on 80% of her body.] * Arisa follows behind the guards and bows deeply as she approaches the woman. She makes no move to sit or speak unless she's requested to. [The woman stands, the rock not seeming to hinder her at all. The soldiers stand to her sides as she says, in a warm voice, "Please, Arisa Lockheed, have a seat. You as well, Jul'pmak'guby."] * Arisa bows again in reply and makes her way to the seat, sitting as comfortably as she can in it. "Might I inquire as to your interest in me, milady?" She spoke steadily for as nervous as she was, but she managed to hide it fairly well. [The woman glances over at Arisa and smiles, and then turns back to Julie, who has looked nervous, despite trying not to, ever since the door opened. Julie draws herself up and says, fimrly, "I acknowledge our ancient bond, in the name of Or'ma'kal." She holds up her hand, and it becomes wreathed in a blue flame.] [The woman, Ru'Wrg'Klu'Pio, reaches out and touches the flame with her bare hand, for a second, then covers it, and Julie's hand, in rock from her body armor. "I acknowledge our ancient bond, in the name of Va'bul." She smiles faintly. "I was worried I would never hear those words again."] * Arisa stares at the ceremony in faint awe. [Julie smiles a little, and says, "I was afraid I wouldn't be allowed to say them. We have done so many horrible..." she trails off, and Rugi gestures at the chair. "Let us be seated. I fear poor Arisa Lockheed is bored with our ancient ceremony."] [Rugi looks over at you with a small smile at that. As if it were a shared joke.] (Perception with a -2 bonus.) (Any senses?) (Totally visual.) (Sorry. ^^;) 2d8-4 * Dicesuke throws the bones for Arisa (2d8-4) and gets 3. (Make by 5) [It's pretty clear to you that that little handshake seriously burned Rugi's hand, as she gestures with it. Nontheless, she takes a seat, seemingly unconcerned. Julie seems relieved, in her seat.] * Arisa blinks and replies innocently, "Oh no, I was fascinated.." She smiles slightly. "I've always thought it wonderful when people could get in contact with the ancient spirits..." [Rugi nods, and says slightly. "I am glad you enjoyed it, then, although it was more a tribute to our common roots."] I'm afraid I know very little about these common roots...however, I'm pleased to see that you're one of few that don't revile at an invited guest like most of the others we've met here. * Arisa smiles at Julie. [Julie smiles a little as well, but Rugi makes a distasteful face. "My children are stubborn, and the war has drawn on for as long as some of the youngest remember. They will adjust in time." She smiles sweetly. "I will make certain of that."] [Rugi then adds on, "But we should introduce ourselves in person, and not through my children. I am Ru'Wrg'Klu'Pio. High Priestess of the Ru'Hak people. I am also known as Va'bul's Arm."] * Arisa nods and stands, gesturing her arm across her body to herself. "My name is Arisa Lockheed, daughter of Caius Lockheed and Neiya Glowfire. I'm afraid I have no formal title, nor do I desire one." She bows a little then rises, smiling. "I'm a simple herbalist by trade however, that is all." [Rugi smiles warmly. "Some need no more than that." She turns to Julie, who nods and says, proudly. "Jul'pmak'guby, daughter of Vrr'pmak'ruex and Mer'ljan'guby, Princess of the Op'Hak, and an Op'Kahn'sa."] [Rugi nods at both of you, and then says, "Now, with the formalities out of the way... I must say. I am very glad that Gun and Fru's idea worked. They, and you, have truly saved us all." She smils faintly. "And the modesty is unnecessary. I realize it was a matter of circumstance."] * Arisa blushes at that. "Still, you all flatter me too much. I wasn't even given a full explanation. For all I know, I may have been tricked.." [Julie looks slightly confused, but Rugi laughs. "Tricked? By Gun? The man is devoted, but I doubt he has a decietful bone in his body."] * Arisa turns redder. "Well, I doubt that NOW...but I can't deny that those thoughts lingered in the back of my mind as I fulfilled that duty.." She sighs a little. "And the thoughts of a home that apparently does not exist to me..." [Rugi suddenly looks serious, and Julie nods slowly. "I... I must say, if I had thought there was any other way, but we spent every drop of our effort in not being destroyed." She smiles warmly and says with a tone of affection, "I am happy to have two wonderful human orphans, though." Julie glancs over at Rugi with a strange look.] * Arisa smiles slightly at that. "Gun, as you call him, did say that he wasn't expecting 'humans'. Of which I fear I am not. At least I would not be considered one where I am from." [Rugi nods slightly. "I have heard, but still... I am very unfamiliar with these... half-elves. I am afraid you look more like a Human who had bred with an Om'Kan." A small smile. "Many people would not have thought of that."] [Julie blinks a few times at that.] * Arisa looks strange at Rugi. "An Om'Kan?" [Rugi sighs and nods. "One of the wind people. They posessed ears similar to yours, and were all of stunningly fair skin. They were as bright as we are brown." She smiles a little. "But that is not the case anyway."] * Arisa smiles slightly. "The comparison may not be that far off...although elves are usually creatures of the woods. My mother, however, hailed from a more mountain clan." [Rugi smiles super-warmly. "The mountains. It is an honor to meet another of the earth, then, child. No matter where you hail from."] I suppose so...I have a rather odd heritage...although crossbreeding between humans and elves is not unheard of in the least. [Julie smiles for a second, and then chuckles. "Well, I would hope not. You're here." Rugi looks over at Julie, then at you and nods. "Yes." She then suddenly, with no warning, closes her eyes.] * Arisa blinks at Julie's odd response and then watches Rugi. [The soldiers, who are at her sides, say, "Do not worry. Something has simply come up. She will awaken shortly." Julie looks at her, and then over at you. She smiles a little. "You seem to be taking this pretty well."] Hmm? Taking what? * Arisa looks over at Julie innocently, and seemingly completely oblivious. [Julie says, "The ritual, and... Ru'Wrg'Klu'Pio." She chuckles a little. "If it weren't for my father, I don't think I would have been able to look her in the eye."] * Arisa looks over at Rugi oddly. "Is she really that important?" [Julie nods. "She is... Va'bul? Is the Goddess of the Earth people. She is no doubt the most powerful Ru'K... Ru'mon, and as the high priestess..." she trails off for a second.] [Julie finishes, "I am not completely sure, but I imagine that she is the single most powerful Ru'Hak. The governing body is a council, she... is alone."] [None of the Ru'Hak seem to take issue with this.] * Arisa blinks and blushes brightly. "A high priestess!? Ris--um...no way!" [Julie smiles a little teasingly. "Perhaps you missed that in her introduction lecture, but yes. Not just anyone calls an entire people her children."] Well...I don't really think much of authority.... [Julie mms faintly, and says, "That's..." she trails off, suddenly seeming introspective.] [Rugi, while you are looking away, opens her eyes and says, "Our time to speak is running short, Arisa Lockheed. I must, sadly, cut to the core of things."] * Arisa nods and listens. [Rugi leans back slightly in her chair. The stone shifts around her. "As you know... our world is in a dire position. A very dire position. With more than half of us dead... and two Jamo crystals destroyed, I cannot rest."] ["I will be spending all of my time attempting to heal the rift between our--" she gestures at Julie, "--peoples. I do not know we could survive another real war."] * Arisa frowns at that but remains silent [She looks right at you, Arisa. "And, perhaps worst of all, we have dragged two women into this, against their wills. And because of that, I must make both a plea, and offer you a choice."] * Arisa tilts her head to the side. "A choice?" [Julie seems confused at that too, but Rugi nods. "Yes... as it is our responsibility you are here, I cannot, morally, force you, or your compatriot, to help us. What we can do... we have deprived you of your place. The least we can do is offer you the chance to find one with us." She glances at Julie. "All of us, if the princess would be as willing."] My thoughts still drift to my homeland, I'm afraid...although...I'm uncertain where the choice exactly comes into play. [Julie blinks a few times, perhaps not expecting to be included, then she nods slowly. "I would be glad to offer Arisa a place with me and my people."] [Rugi looks at Arisa. "You... my people will welcome you. Jul'pmak'guby's might. The humans may as well. Or you could spend your life alone. But if you want to stay with any of our peoples, please... consider helping us. If the world can be restored, I can think of nobody more suited to assist with the task."] [Rugi pauses for a second, and then adds, "But we cannot force you. We have no right."] * Arisa hmms at that and seems to consider it for quite some time before replying. I...cannot really say for certain. I would have to see more of this world before I could give an honest answer. I tend to go where I am needed, no more, no less. [Julie looks a bit apprehensive while you decide. Rugi is, to pardon the pun, solid as a rock in allowing you to decide without any pleading looks.] [Rugi nods slowly. "It is a good answer, but I can think of no greater need than the world's." She gestures again with her burnt hand, then smiles warmly. "Our time is up, I am afraid. But I, as well as Gun and Fru, will offer whatever assistance I can to speed your decision."] [Julie has a slight frown on her face at the moment. If she catches you looking, it shifts into a weak smile.] * Arisa smiles and locks her fingers in front of her, bowing slightly. "I'm afraid I have always been slightly on my own in that respect. It is rather fast to expect such a choice so soon." [Rugi nods. "I understand, and hope that you come to a solid decision." The two soldiers step forward. "They will show you both to wherever you wish to go." Rugi also stands.] * Arisa nods and gives one last bow before turning and nodding to Julie and heading for the exit. [Rugi bows slightly at you. Julie tuns to Rugi briefly before leaving, and says softly, "I hope we can come to understand eachother." Rugi nods. "As do I. Goodbye, daughter of Or'ma'kal." Julie nods and goes to catch up with you, as the soldiers open the door and lead you out.] [The Soldier Twins say, once you are out, "Would you like to return to the party?"] * Arisa gets out of the chamber and deflates a little, her shoulders slacking. "As I feared...I'm no hero, despite what you may believe..." She waves to the two soldiers. "In a moment, if you don't mind..we can find our own way back." [The soldiers both bow, and leave you both, wandering down a different hallway. Julie, meanwhile, comes close to you. "Arisa? Are you alright?"] * Arisa looks at Julie confused. "Alright? What do you mean?" [Julie shakes her head. "You seemed distraught again."] I'm just.... * Arisa sighs and runs her fingers through her forelocks. "It's a lot of pressure...that's why I don't wish to be involved...yet I'm already more involved than you know. * Arisa smiles as she looks up. "My...other self. She first left to try and save the lives of her village. It's only fitting that I do something similar." [Julie opens her mouth as if to say something, and then closes it and nods, saying softly. "So you feel trapped. I... understand that."] It's not simply that. * Arisa smiles at Julie, locking her eyes on her. "I need to know about the world that I'm protecting first, don't I?" [Julie nods slowly and smiles warmly. WARMLY. Ha ha. She reaches over and touchs Arisa's arm, if Arisa doesn't fleeeeeee! "It makes sense."] * Arisa looks at Julie's hand oddly, not flinching, then back at her a little confused. "Hmm...do you know any about the humans here?" [Julie blinks, and says, softly, "Not around here, but... they need water, right? There is no better place for water than the Yu'Mon river."] * Arisa smiles. "Let's go then." She looks back down the hall. "I've had enough of this party as is. It gets far too stuffy!" [Julie laughs faintly, then looks down at her dress, before saying. "I feel bad. Fru'biop'wau put so much work into it, and it's really a beautiful dress."] [Julie lets go of your arm, also, at this point.] * Arisa smiles at that. "That isn't a no." [Julie grins back at her. "You're right, it's not. But it is a half day away, according to Fru'biop'wau. We will need to borrow a circle. And hopefully a caster."] (Seems like a good place to stop it there) (Sure!) (Well, after Arisa decides on that and/or walks away. ^_~) * Arisa hmms, and grins. "Lead me to the closest circle then, Julie." [Julie blinks and says, slowly, "Julie..." then smiles broadly. "Right away, Arisa."] [And off they go to find a circle!] [Session end!]