Accidental Integration (Vala)

by **Darren** on June 17th, 2011, 2:00 am

Date: 78th of Summer, Year 511

The hike up to Wind Reach took alot more out of him then he expected, alot more then he would be comfortable with. Thankfully they were allowed to rest during the trek up the mountain. If they moved too quickly they might run the risk of getting what they called acute mountain sickness. Stories went around the traveling group as they recalled stories of mild hallucination dizziness and lightheartedness chorused through the people of the crew as they hiked up the mountain. Thoughts of uncertainty and doubt danced around Darren's head during the whole trek up the mountain. At first it seemed like there was nothing worse then the rushing river they used to get to Wind Reach but this seemed to be coming in at a close second.

Already hallucinations, or at least what he thought were hallucinations haunted him throughout the walk. When he addressed the issue Darren was politely jibed and told not to worry. But he couldn't, he was actually very unfamiliar with Wind Reach and now knowing this possible sickness he was disturbed by the possibility he was succumbing to it's effects. Occasionally he would see outlines of huge feathered beasts etched across the road. He turned to the others to see if they noticed but their lack of acknowledgement fueled the idea that he could already be sick. No... No... No... This is bad. I thought things at the ship were bad but this could be worse! I should turn back. Back to the boats, I'm not sure about this anymore.

Finally on the fourth day they made it, The Sanikas Gates. "Finally..." Darren said relieved. His shoulders loosened as he took a look at the structure. Functionality and form. Very nice. he thought as a smile made it's way to his face. "Haha! I did it and no mountain sickness!" he exclaimed as the people in his traveling group smiled. "I dunno Darren...," a crew member from the ship smiled, "I heard if you start seeing the natives with red hair you might have it." The smile disappeared as quickly as it came as the people in the crew led him on. Obviously they forgot to indulge him in the fact that almost everyone in Wind Reach had red hair. Knowing the Vantha's ignorance the crew put together one last laugh at his expense.

Darren breathed in heavily, his breathing became ragged as he realized he might have had the mountain sickness after all. He thought the people he met on the mountain naturally had red hair. Or did they? He couldn't remember. He was in a rush to get off the ship and see the city. Ah this couldn't be right I can't be sick.... A snort of laughter was lost on Darren as they watched his reaction. They might have laid it too thick on him. Saying that the mountain sickness also caused bouts of insanity and other symptoms lasting for an extended period might not have been in the best of tastes. However they couldn't take it back now as the alarmed Vantha rushed forward away from the group.

Darren jogged to the gates, a panicked jog that was aimed to try to keep his dignity intact. A lifetime of discipline went up against a lifetime of superstition, and superstition won. When he came upon the first few people at the gates he cried out as he saw a myriad of redheads group up near the gates. "No... No! No!" he whimpered "This cannot be!" He swallowed hard as his sights came upon a beautiful woman accompanied by an older man. The hysterical Vantha gave himself a moment to compose himself before greeting them. First impressions were important no matter what. He approached the two, the man inbetween himself and the alluring redhead. "Beautiful hair you got there miss... May I ask what color is it?" he stammered nervously.

by **Vala** on June 17th, 2011, 4:01 am

Here. These yasi are to help you knead the dough. This one is… you know what you guys can introduce yourselves to her; you guys are old enough. If you need me… Don’t need me. The Avoran chef had walked off without another look back. Vala still wasn’t sure if it was all a dream or her mind was playing tricks on her again, either way, the six baby blue eyes blinking expectedly at her were not helping her as she tried to gather her wits. Vala opened her mouth. Nothing came out. She brought her hand to her forehead. Her fingers felt dusty against the beads of sweat that dotted her forehead. She brought her hand down, only to realize she had probably gotten flour all over her hair. She sighed in frustration laced with resignation.

“What’s your name?” Vala looked down at the one furthest to the right. They all looked the same to her. Just as the whippet of a boy was about to respond she cut him off. “No, wait. Never mind. You are one. You are two. And you are Three. Awesome. Glad that’s covered. My name is Vala. Or ma’am. Or ‘hey lady’. It doesn’t matter to me.” Normally Vala would have been nicer. Sorry. Mild exaggeration. Normally Vala might have had the decency to listen to their names, but probably nothing more than that, but today she had promised Val a visit. Vala hated breaking promises to people she liked.

A one man wolf pack, Vala preferred to work alone or at least with people better than her. Working with the snotty brats put her at risk for getting held responsible for their mistakes. Vala scowled at the sight of their needy little faces, as they waited for her instructions. They had yet to make a peep, the first one with his lips sewn shut. They were still in shock at the woman who was barely a head taller yet exuded an icy aura that made their stomach churn just looking at her. The middle one flinched when she pointed at him. “You. Two. And you. One. You guys will be making the shells…” Her right eye twitched when they just looked up at her in complete compliancy. “…You guys really need to stop looking at me like that. Ugh, fine. It doesn’t matter if you know, but we’re making blueberry tarts for the Endals’ lunch today. We’re not actually making anything. I’m not ‘experienced’ enough yet. And you guys definitely are not. We’re just putting everything together. Ok? Good. You two follow me. Three, you can watch if you want. I could care less.” All three of them shuffled after Vala as she made her way to the counter. Grabbing the giant bowl full of crust dough and the stack of mini tart cups, Vala moved it to a more open section of countertop, more specifically, away from hers. “I’ll give you a quick demonstration. This is honestly remedial. I’m sure you guys can do this, you guys look competent enough.” said the master of backhand complements. Without another word Vala grabbed a handful of dough, about the size of a plum, and dumped it in a cup. Using just the pads of her forefinger and middle finger, on her right hand, Vala pressed the dough until it was spread evenly throughout the entire mold. Vala placed the finished cup on empty counter space between the yasi’s and hers. She tsked angrily when she saw some of the dough had stuck to her palm. She reached into a sack of flour, patting the white dust until it turned her already pale flesh bone white. She demonstrated one more time before turning to the children. “Understand?” All three nodded after a second pause, a little confused if Vala had actually been making a death threat from the sound of her tone. “Great. Make sure you wash your hands before you begin. Don’t put any more dough than… well for you guys, a fist. No more than a fist of dough. Make sure everything is even. And try not to make the bottom really thick and the sides really thin… ok this is taking longer than if I just did it myself. Go. Work. What are you still looking at me for?”

Vala walked back to her station, not confident, but not too worried that the kids would be able to do such a simple task. “Now you… three. You will be working with me to stuff the molds they make with the blueberry filling. Actually no, you will also be the one to move the dough filled crusts to me so I don’t have to reach. Understand? Good, and if one of your friends get tired of their job feel free to switch. Well? Hand me a shell for Priskil’s sake, and stop gawking like a fish or your face will stay like that.” Vala took the first shell from the poor boy and scooped in a niggardly amount, barely reaching the brim of the crust. In public she was a perfectly modest and upstanding citizen, but when no one was looking… well Vala made sure to get her little jibs at the snooty Endal when she could.

With her ‘instruction’ complete Vala was free to speed through her simple tart job. Without the yasi it would have probably taken her at least a bell and a half. With a yasi it had taken her only a little more than thirty chimes.

Not always a cold hearted witch through and through, Vala made sure to show she ‘appreciated’ the yasi’s help. Motioning for them to come to her, they reluctantly shuffled to her side. “Hold out your hands, palms up. They unraveled their hands with fearful uncertainty, bodies shaking in anticipation. Plucking tarts that had baked funny, but still tasted unbelievably heavenly, Vala placed one in each of the children’s hands. “This is for helping me out and doing a good job today.” They all muttered a surprised thank you to Vala, wondering if they should test if it was poisoned first. They tried to hold out, but after a few seconds of the sweet perfume wafting to their tiny little noses, and the oven warm pastry sitting so temptingly in their palms, they began to scarf down their treat without another word of encouragement.

Vala didn’t wait to watch them; she didn’t care for the joy on their faces. Only achievement fueled her; underlings be damned. She left the kitchens, and the cleaning to the yasi. In her hand were three perfect little tarts, wrapped up in a sturdy napkin. While volunteering at the kitchens was usually a thankless job, it did have it perks.

Trotting all the way to the Sanikas Gates, Vala could hardly wait for her little ‘brunch’ with Val. He greeted her in common, as he had promised, well forced her into practicing. She went through all the proper motions, having light chit chat in common, commenting on the weather and his health, to incite a proud smile from him, thus a genuine one from her. Just as they were about to enjoy their special, still warm tarts, some random stranger had to blunder in and interrupt them right before her first bite. She looked up at him, batting her eyelashes, widening her eyes, as if in mild surprise. This was all of course an act to hide the snarl she had hidden behind the mask; she didn’t want to appear crass in front of Val.

She didn’t understand him. The confusion in her eyes was real. It was to be expected though. Summer had come, and so to swarmed the ‘traders’ and ‘adventurers’. Vala turned to Val and ask deferently, keeping her voice low so the outsider couldn’t hear her. She of course made sure not to break eye contact with him as she spoke; paranoia was a constant friend. “What language is he speaking Val?”

“He is speaking in Vani my child. He comes from Avanthal. Very far north.” Val nodded and smiled at the man. “Hello boy. Can you speak Lhatvian?” When Darren did not respond in turn, Val spoke to Vala. “Speak in Lhatvian dear.

“But why? I not very good yet. Why not common? Vala asked petulantly, brows furrowing just a tad.

“Because my dear. Like most travelers, I am almost certain he can understand at least a little common. Lhatvian is rarer.” Val took a small bite from his tart. His teeth stained a bright blue as he smiled wide at the confused and panicking Darren.

“Then why not Nari. Talk Nari? Vala cleared her throat and asked as slowly as possible, accenting each sound in perfect pronunciation. “What did you ask me, sir? How can I help you?” When Darren did not respond, she asked Val who pretended not to hear the girl’s Nari. She grudgingly asked again in Lhatvian. “You are right. Simpleton comes to Wind Reach. Does not know our language… What did he ask me? And why is he stammering… idiot? Is he sick? He looks sick. I call an Endal to have him ‘removed’? ” Vala flashed Darren a condescending smile while trying to edge further back into her chair.

“You are a cruel girl sometimes you know. He asked you what color your hair is.

Vala couldn’t help but scoff. She coughed trying to cover up her mirth, bringing a hand girlishly to her lips. “Sick and color blind? He really is drudge material. Vala looked Darren in the eyes as she spoke. She honeyed her words so that it sounded like she was paying him a compliment. Her delighted laughter tinkling in the air like glass in the wind.

Stopping it before Darren suffered any more at their expense, Val spoke to Darren in Vani. “Her hair is red, boy. Might I ask why you need to know? It is a strange question. And she can’t understand you. Can you speak Common perchance?” Val offered Darren a comforting smile, motioning him to sit at the empty bench before the fiery headed pair.

OOC :

by **Darren** on June 18th, 2011, 12:05 am

Darren took a step back as the woman turned to the other man, speaking in a somewhat low tone. He waited patiently as the man spoke in an unfamiliar high pitch shrill. Darren gave him a look at the sounds coming from the man's mouth, he wasn't too sure if that was considered normal or he was hallucinating. Oh Morwen is this a symptom of it? I really am going mad aren't I? he twitched slightly in response. And the reaction, they the woman never took her eye away from him. This sickness is VERY real and Very serious it seems...he rationalized, certainly they must have a cure inside. I have no other choice...

Suddenly the man's voice changed as he acknowledged Darren, the words that came from the older man's changed from the almost savage bid-like tongue to the most formal talk he has ever heard. He switched his gaze as the woman followed suit, again surprised but less so then last time. He determined the tongue they were talking to be the normal language that the people of Wind Reach spoke. And not a handful of them would probably know Vani I bet he concluded, slightly disappointed. The smile the older man gave Darren wasn't reassuring either, the pastry staining his teeth gave him an almost cannibalistic appearance.

Then the shrill sounds came from the woman again, a pang of anxiety surged through Darren as he stood in front of the two. Whatever they were talking about didn't seem to be in any way helpful or productive at all. He returned the smile the woman gave him with a nervous one of his own. Well... at least I got had the opportunity to see a wonderful Inarta woman before I- he paused as recognized the cheeky attitude the woman displayed. Embarrassment flushed over him as he realized that what he might be seeing was also a hallucination. Obviously this is no lady. Probably my eyes playing tricks on me. She must be an older shrew that is having lunch with her young boy he reasoned, sure of himself as he looked back at the other man.

By the time the older hag tried to play off her attitude Darren already had enough. "Nice try... but I aquainted with that little "act" of yours" he murmured, slighted. As she laughed Darren smiled and joined in with the ill founded humor in a slightly sarcastic tone. Hmph. He perked up as the older man boy spoke to him in his native tongue. "Ah someone who knows Vani!" he exclaimed. He nodded as he slowly pieced what he wanted to say in common. "Yes, I know very little Common" he announced as he took a seat close to the man.

Already he forgot about what was bothering him only a moment ago. A man who understands this is great! Now I'll just have to ask about the whole mountain sickness thing , he smiled as his eyes turned a friendly shade of blue. "I am new to Wind Reach. Came from... Denval and wish to learn more. Good to meet you. Lots of friendly peope in travels" he explained as he excited moved his hand in conjunction with his words. Darren paused midsentence as he shot Vala a chiding look before turning to Val to continue. "I just came to ask about many things. I saw ...very sexy girl at gate and wanted to be nice and friend -ly" he gestured, half-wondering if what he said what he wanted correctly. "Um... this city, where can I get job and house? Can you help with?"

Darren made himself comfortable as he awaited the Inartas to respond. His eyes scanned the area whence they were seating. "Ah!" he cried out as he saw an extra pastry just begging to be taken. "Are you eating that?" he asked pointing at the sweet morsel. Given the whole motion was pointless as he took the pastry from the woman's hands as she was distracted. He would wink back a thanks before taking a bite from the delicacy. A mixture of pleasure and happiness surged from his mouth as the pastry went well with his chipper personality. A smile of appreciation found it's way to his lips as he looked at Vala differently. "That's for making fun of me" he grinned, we are even now. Wiping his hands clean he brought forth his hand, gesturing for a handshake. "My name is Darren Whitevine of Avanthal. I have come to learn many new things. What is your name? Miss..." he said, letting the last word drag a bit in anticipation.

by **Vala** on June 18th, 2011, 2:41 am

Her thin feathery brows drew together in consternation, at the sight of Darren’s contemptuous face. She didn’t like that look. She didn’t like it at all. But instead of frowning she smiled. She was bored; it had been some time since Vala had found one with such spirit, one below her station.

The old man motioned for the boy to sit down. “Please please. All in good time. Care for a tart? My friend here, has been kind enough to bring me some treats this morning. We just happen to have an extra. Please, share it with us. And don’t worry about her. She’s had a rough morning – I’m fairly sure that not all of her nastiness was aimed just at you.” Val waited for Darren to sit, his wrinkled eyes heavy with understanding. I'm sorry my boy: I'm being rude. My name is Val, this 'sexy' maiden as you call her is my friend-" Val shot Darren a warning look, one that could only be described as fatherly, before reverting back to his friendly demeanor. "Vala. Now I hope you don't mind if I start to speak in Common; I promise to keep it very simple. I'm afraid Vala is starting to get antsy, with us keeping her out of the loop like this. Don't tell her, but I can tell when she's angry or in one of her 'moods', I think its better for me, and her, if I keep that particular bit secret. " Val switched to Common without even skipping a beat. "Vala, I just offered this nice man the extra tart you brought me. She is a very good cook you know, made them herself she did. Don't be so modest Vala. Why don't you pour him a cup of tea as well? Val nudged his head encouragingly; he didn't have to ask twice. [/color]

Subtly adjusting her posture to sit taller to accentuate her curves, Vala delicately drew a flaming red lock behind her ear, before reaching out for the tea kettle. Flipping the extra tea cup rightside up, Vala poured the steaming hot liquid until it fell right below the brim. She set the cup and the tart right before Darren. She didn't like the fact Val was so flippant with her tarts, but at least he was getting the ball rolling for her without her even having to lift a finger. Careful, sir. It's quite hot. She whispered as she kept her eyes downcast, her form leaning ever so demurely. In her earlier surly mood, she had lost much ground in terms of charming the stranger, but it had been sometime since Vala had a proper challenge. She cupped her still boiling tea, cradling it in her palms. Pouting her lips ever so carefully she began to blow, to cool the tea down. Her lashes in the perfect position to frame and shadow her blue eyes - Vala didn't want him to see the excited fire that burned in the icy blue expanse.

Val raised an eyebrow, not willing to express the full extent of displeasure he felt at Vala's 'show', especially to a non-Inartan stranger. "He needs a job-"

"Shall I take him to the Valintar? Vala piped up before Val could continue. She didn't keep the lilt of excitement from her tone, even exaggerating it further. She looked up at Darren now, making eye contact but making sure to keep her head bent so she looked up at him and he down at her, a 'sub-consious' marker that made people believe she was showing deference. A strategy that specifically targeted men, especially dominating men who had a natural urge to care for the 'weak'.

"If he'll have you. I can't leave my post and take him there myself... After we finish our fare here, would you like Vala here to take you to the Valintar to help you get settled in our fine city? The Valintar is our government, they will sort everything out for you. Since you do not know our language may I assume you do not know much of our culture either? I can tell a little of how our city works if you wish. But if you're in a rush I can give you the directions and I'm sure you can find your way there yourself. It's very hard to miss. Val looked at Darren a little gravely, taking another bite of his half finished tart.

by **Darren** on June 18th, 2011, 7:47 am

Darren nodded sagely in reponse to Val's admittance, a surge of relief washing over him as he heard that the woman was actually a lot nicer then she seemed added with the prospect of eating a sweet treat. He laughed nervously, grabbing the back of his neck as he heard that the pair weren't related but rather close acquaintances. "Ah yes, sorry...hi there" he answered back sheepishly, "I can try doing Common, sure." As Val switched to common Darren couldn't help but to be amazed by the how skilled the man was with languages. Only recently was he speaking the words of his native land without an accent but now he was also speaking common fluently. Not only fluently, but simple enough so that Darren would be able to follow the conversation.

T? They have a letter for a drink? How unusual... he mused silently as he took a bite from the tart. The first contact with the gooey filing worked it's wonders on him as he paused to appreciate Vala's cooling. "Not good chef" he said completely straght faced. He paused before he went on "Great chef!" he smiled as he addresed Val "These are lovely. These... aren't just tarts. These are symphonies that are made with an almost childlike charm" he complimented as he then asked Val to interpret his the words to Vala. He watched as the Inarta assume a feminine pose as she readied the drink for him. It was only when she whispered something that he realized that he was staring.

Recovering quickly Darren thanked Vala as he took a look at the drink given to him. He looked up uncomprehendingly at the drink as he watched the others prepare their cups. This is... hot herb water he thought, oblivious to any indication that the drink would be pleasant. But he should try it, afterall he didn't want to be rude. Mimicing the pair he pursed his lips together as he tried to cool the tea given to him. Putting his lips to the brim, he winced as the scalding liquid made contact with his lips. "Hot" he sputtered as he set the piping hot cup down. He wondered for a moment if possibly his gift would be able to help chill the beverage. Placing his hand over the cup he watched the others unfocused as he tried to will the drink cooler.

But nothing happened, he cup stayed piping hot as his hand hovered over the tea's fumes. In any case, he wouldn't have time to enjoy it anyways. Conversation broke out and very confusing discussion at that. What's a Valinhar? he wondered as he looked back at Vala. He gave her his usual easy smile as she looked at him so innocently, how could he resist? "Yes, I would like that" he replied back, a bit confused at the serious face Val was giving him. "There are things to know about Wind Reach? Like?" he asked, humoring Val. He was in no hurry he had a few days before the others from the ship caught up with him. Speaking of... "wait am I still sick?" he asked to no one in particular.

oocItalics is common

by **Vala** on June 19th, 2011, 3:31 pm

Finally someone who made her feel better at Common. It was always nice to see someone fail at something more than her. And it was nice to be complimented so profusely that it was almost nauseating. She was starting to 'like' this one. Vala had tittered ‘sheepishly’, graciously accepting Darren’s flattery of her tarts… knowing full well she barely had a hand in making most of it. Vala felt no shame in accepting what wasn’t hers, especially if it meant getting her ahead.

When her tea was finally cool enough to drink, Vala began to sip silently as she watched Darren fumble with his cup. Her pupils dilated as she tried to figure out what he was doing with his hand over the top. If he had been burned by the heat earlier… why would he try to keep heat in now? Vala forced herself to resist shaking her head. It would be no fun playing with a simpleton: they had some inexplicable force field to her more subtle and well thought attacks…

It was working, faster than she expected. He was far too trusting for his own good. She brought her fingers to her cheek, discreetly feeling for the fakeness of her smile. She tried to cover up her insecurity by turning her head to face Val as he answered Darren’s questions, nodding her head enthusiastically at the proper moments.

Val put down his tea. Well I’m sure you’ve noticed from your travels that each city, while very different in organization, all share some sort of class disparity. Wind Reach is no different. Our system is simple, effective, and law. I noticed your confused look,” Vala bit her inner cheek to prevent a snigger. “,when I began talking about the Valintar.” Val proceeded to give a brief description on the city’s caste system: the Endal, the Avora, the Chiet, and the Dek; emphasizing the importance of knowing one’s place. As Val spoke Vala picked up Darren’s cup and began to gently blow the steam away. When it was lukewarm, the temperature children had their tea, Vala put it back down before Darren. Now that she knew she had his attention, in a good way, she began to play the game. Vala made sure to ‘accidentally miss’ Darren’s gaze every time, her demure looks just brushing over Darren’s face as she stared intently at the suddenly interesting bush to his right.

Her eyes instantly locked onto his, opened wide in alarm. What do you mean sick? Are you ok? The gape of shock wasn’t as fake as her smiles: Vala desperately wanted some fun but she wasn’t going to risk her health for a possible simpleton. Her lithe fingers tapped impatiently at her leg, unconsciously displaying her anxiety. Her leg muscles were tense; she was ready for flight at a moment’s notice. Her eyes flitted across Darren’s face, trying to find any indicators of disease so common amongst the Dek. He was sweating and he looked pale but she couldn’t find any rotting. He didn’t smell like sickness either, but he did smell of travel. The sound of rushing blood filled her ears.

by **Darren** on June 19th, 2011, 7:27 pm

Darren's eyes were resolute as Val explained the ways of Wind Reach. Some words such as class disparity was a harder concept for him to understand but he got the idea of what Val was saying. Compared to Denval and Avanthal, Wind Reach was much more elaborate in their rankings. Accustomed to only leaders and the people they led his eyes shimmered in slight disbelief as Val explained the caste system. He composed himself justly as he sat through the sermon. Perhaps it was good that he humored Val after all. Knowing your place? No, you hold yourself up with pride he argued as he squeezed his knuckles. Already his knuckles grew white from the grip he applied to them. Thankfully the one named Vala chose that moment to "help" Darren as she took his cup.

Thanking her for the assistance he gave the tea another chance. A bit cold, but otherwise fine he put down the cup with a less then interested demeanor towards it. Granted it was hotter then most things he would have ever drank back home, the subtle nature of the drink didn't arouse him in any way. ...I still prefer milk he thought as he looked up to listen the last parts of Val's speech. He didn't like what he heard, or at least what he understood. Granted the ones on top of the social caste should be taken care of but hearing the Dek's living conditions irritated the Whitevine blood running through his system. Being brought up to care and otherwise improve others the system they had for the Deks he noticed, was designed to make them fail.

Lack of decent food, resources, and even time to improve. This was an abomination to the sanctity human life to the close minded Vantha. The only thing stopping him from speaking profanity about their ways was the woman attending to him almost religiously. Granted he didn't have much time to observe the culture or the individuals in front of him but already he saw Vala as the good in the system. Already she placed herself as what was best about the Inarta to Darren. She might have a thing for him and I can't say I'm not interested he thought as he watched Vala take a sudden interest to the scenery near them. Finally he gave her a droopy, adoring stare before he focused on what Val had to say.

The sudden change of attitude from a quaint, doting love interest to a skeptical, hot-blooded native caused Darren to rear back in astonishment. A yellow flag was raised in this sudden conversion, watching Vala closely. She was tense, yes, but that was to be expected. What really put him off it was as if she was starting to eye him in disgust, Maybe she isn't the understanding person I envisioned her to be he thought softly as he turned to Val. "Don't worry it's not contagious. I just heard from the people I came with about "acute mountain sickness." They warned me that if I saw the natives with red hair I might be sick. They said I would experience hallucinations and while on Snikas road I thought I saw the outlines of huge feathered creatures on the road. Tell me is there such a thing?" he asked as he looked for the people he came with.

It was already too late to see the last of the crew that came with him. He didn't notice them as they passed him by with their usual laughs at his ignorance. He paused before he asked Val about moving along. "I am fine. I don't think I am sick." he said trying to reassure Vala. He took finished the tart as he stood up. "Thank you for your help Val" he said, bowing his head slightly. Leaning forward he motioned to shake hands with the sage of a man. He felt a bit at ease after learning about the Inarta, now all that was left was to confront the Valintar and sell himself. "Vala, will you help me?" he asked with an encouraging smile. Offering his hand to help her up, it was another chance for Vala to redeem herself as Darren tried to form the most appealing blue his eyes can manage.

by **Vala** on June 20th, 2011, 4:08 am

The shock had been too real, too uncontrolled; Vala had slipped up. She needed to cover it up. He held out his hand. She looked into his eyes. She saw the question behind them. She didn’t like the openness that his blinding blue orbs held: it unnerved her. She managed to keep her smile as she stared at the outstretched hand, as unappealing as a deadly firesnake. She assessed the situation.
1. She took his hand: She would feel nauseous. She might gag. Would she be able to control her reaction? It could help erase her earlier slip up. There always was something about the slightest of touches that made men just giddy… and apt to forget about a woman’s scorn.
2. She didn’t take his hand: It exacerbated the suspicion he had of her true motives. She wouldn’t feel the normal physical pain associated with touch, especially those with men.
It was still a close call. She still wasn’t sure whether the pain outweighed the gains. She assessed herself.

1. Full night’s sleep (well rested)
2. Hunger mostly satiated (tarts were a great treat)
3. Time spent with Val was relaxing
4. Time spent with Yasi (Children… ugh)
So far, her morning had been nothing but pleasant. Her mood was actually better than it had been for some time. Her earlier reaction to Darren had just come naturally for the xenophobic Inartan.

Vala took his hand.

Standing up, she nearly fell, if it wasn’t for his hand instantly bearing the brunt of her wraith like weight. Her head spun with instantaneous vertigo; she shut her eyes so she wouldn’t see the spinning walls and melting floor, afraid she might just come crashing down upon them. The color drained from her face, but still she willed herself to smile. In less than a few seconds her eyes were open again, still a little hazy from pain. Her hand was shaking in Darren’s. Giving Val a trembling goodbye, she began to walk through the gates into the city.

A few steps in, Vala pretended to stumble, not having to fake too much. She caught herself against a wall. “I’m sorry. How clumsy of me. My legs are feeling a little wobbly. I must have stood up too fast.” Vala sputtered a plausible lie on the fly, bile still threatening to spill from her lips. The experience had been worse than she had expected, actually catching her by surprise. It was not at all helping Vala’s condition to have Darren privy to her weakness. Pushing past the shakes and the cold sweat that had broke out on her brow and palms, Vala took several tentative steps forward until she was back to a slow and steady pace.

Conversation. The hall was too quiet, to empty. The air was no doubt tense from Vala’s violent reaction. Vala needed to say something, anything to regain her face. No, she didn’t need to say much, she didn’t think she could, she needed to get him talking. Once he was talking it would give her enough time to center herself. Vala regretted not having meditated longer that morning. Why had he brought on such a violent reaction? Vala’s mind screamed, questioning, as the inner demons began to circle, threatening to shadow her vision. So what brought you to Wind Reach? Vala’s words stumbled a little with her tongue feeling to swollen for her mouth, but she managed to keep her tone even enough not to draw too much alarm.

It took so much will to walk with grace, to keep from just succumbing to the pain that radiated from within. Her breathing was audible in the silence of the warren, but its raggedness was not too evident. So much control it was probably adding to the pain, but it still wasn’t enough. Vala needed something to distract her, and she desperately needed it fast. The shadows circled, waiting for the perfect time to strike, the perfect time to send her screaming into another fit.

Days… they had been waiting for days. They needed release. Such a simple touch… such utter mental destruction. Vala missed her journal. She needed release!

OOC :

by **Darren** on June 21st, 2011, 2:57 am

Darren nearly stumbled forward as Vala pressed her weight unto his hand. Shifting his weight to the side, after the initial surprise helping her up was just a simple task of enduring a small pressure before he stood up straight. He smiled mischievously as he watched Vala stagger a few paces before he got up. He couldn't help it but he could not stop himself from liking this native. Looks like I'll always have be on the watch for you little quirks he grinned as he heard her excuse. He waved his farewell to Val before they left. “Don't worry I take good care of her” he assured in Vani before he turned to catch up with Vala.

The architecture of the place really was something surprising to Darren. He was only used to standing houses on top of solid ground but the place looked to have some places carved into the rock. That added with this being the first mountain the little Vantha has ever seen it added to the magic the place had. They even had halls! Surely such a place could right the wrongs of their ways in time he assured himself, ...just a bit more time. He forgot all about Vala's earlier actions in his childlike wonder of the design of the mystic structures. Granted he might have romanticize the place but it was how he worked as he bounced as he answered Vala. “On the run with … I came to learn about outside world, learn language and have fun” he explained simply. Granted those were the most basic plans he had but a long drawn out speech about his scheming wasn't in the cards. Not going down that road again, he thought as he mentally rolled his eyes, as if I can even explain it in common.

She was walking with so much grace... Darren watched slightly amused but mostly in amazement at Vala's pacing. He tried to mimic formal walking, craning his head back and forth as he exaggerated his pace. Shortening his steps and quickening his tempo, his easy smile would greet Vala as he tried to help her relax. Granted meeting new people was always scary but by now Darren was actually pretty skilled at dealing with people very different from his brothers and sisters in Avanthal. After awhile he stopped his face as he hummed a soft tune to himself, facing forward. What he said next was said casually as they walked. “Tell me about Vala.” he said, keeping his face forward. “I would like to know you more” he hinted as the two made their way to the end of the hall. “Are you free today?” he asked, taking a shy glance at the crimson beauty next to him. “Maybe you... keep me company around Wind Reach?” he stammered quietly.

by **Vala** on June 21st, 2011, 3:54 am

The haze was dying down. The cold clarity of her mind returned gradually. He didn’t speak as much as she would have liked; didn’t give her extra time to compose herself nor did it give her a better picture of what he was and what she could do with him… but it was just enough to keep the demons at bay. The whole language barrier was really making this new target a challenge. After her violent reaction the challenge was not made less attainable, on the contrary, it made him a rush.

The hint of pain that destroyed her from inside out, well, to be honest, Vala relished it. She was nothing without the pain. It got lonely being empty all the time. If she could hold it in with this sap, she knew her control was only getting stronger.

Vala smiled, genuinely entertained as Darren slowed his pace to match his. Her sharp gaze caught his exaggerated posture. She found it a little insulting; it felt like he was mocking her – she let it slide. Her ears pricked at the sound of a soft tune in the air. It was coming from Darren. It was a pleasant sound. She couldn’t place the tune, but the beauty of music always gave her shivers; the hairs on the back of her neck tickled.

And as soon as she was about to be lulled into false security, she was instantly snapped back. The muscles on her face grew taught as he asked about her. That was her job – asking the other about themselves. She had learned over the years that once you asked someone about their life, they got so caught up in telling their story they completely forgot to even notice her – something that the private recluse used to her advantage every time. She angled her face so that she could see both the path before them and his countenance. Vala couldn’t help but release a breathy gasp at the sight of his eyes once they walked into the open Courtyard of the Sky. The bright Summer light reflected off his eyes, revealing not just the dark black orbs she had first observed at the gates, but a range of ghostly colors traversed his eyes. She noted sea blue, fire red, ice blue, sunset red, and so many other shades and tints in between. What was he? He was growing curiouser and curiouser by the chime.

He was acting shy was he? Well two could play at that game. She wouldn’t let herself get so easily flustered by the magic of his eyes. No petty mage would get the best of Vala!

As they reached the doors of the Valintar, Vala’s legs had finally stopped quavering at every step. Using all of her weight, she pulled the heavy doors open and waited for Darren to enter before her. As they took their first tentative steps into the great hall, Vala took a moment to bask in the fantasia of light conceived by the awe inspiring display of ethereal glass planes, channeling the bright summer light. Her pale skin was afire with unnaturally beautiful colors, she held out her hands just so the insubstantial splendor could touch every part of her. She giggled in pure joy as her eyes fell upon Darren, who was also embraced by the same light warm glow of countless, ever morphing colors. “Isn’t it beautiful?” She asked, her voice round with crystal soft purity. Her plan of whipping Darren into yet another empty and used vessel had melted away as soon as the grace had touched her. There were few things that could reduce Vala into such a state – the Valintar on a bright day just happened to be one of them.

To any normal person Vala’s transformation from snotty xenophobic, to doting maiden, to sick with disgust, to conniving harpy, and finally to joyful, innocent damsel would be impossible, especially considering all had transpired in a mere bell, but to her it was normal. Few emotions or states ever lasted for more than a few bells, her soul in constant upheaval. Who knew how long Vala would be in this state?

She stepped up to Darren, only a hand span away. She had already forgotten the pain she had felt earlier, too giddy from the warmth that just seeped into her touch deprived flesh. It gave her shivers to be so close to a stranger she barely knew. She did not lie. She did not need to. For now it was truth. It may only be temporary, for reality is fickle. Her soft voice came out breathy and airy. Her eyes were wide and glistening, tears of happiness forming at the very corners. “I would like that. I would like that very much.” Vala smiled with such pure intention that the sun seemed to shine just an instant brighter to frame a halo upon her perfect countenance, right before she spun away, giggling with arms outstretched as the light danced upon her marble flesh.

OOC :