Jeweled Quest

[TygerEyez]

Please read the OOC for this thread for the information behind, and if you would like to join. No ooc's on this thread unless it is a small one accompanied by a post. I'd like to keep the flow going if we could. Thank you, and enjoy.

A small clearing was a sharp contrast from the lush green forests that surrounded it. In the quiet hours just before dawn, the village of Tilan was quiet safe for the few young men and women chosen for a special Journey. They were the Destined, chosen at this moment in their life to complete a Spritual Quest to discover their role, and to discover who they were.

Summoned by the presence of a Jewel, and beckoned by a small dream placed within their sleep, they had readied themselves, gathering only what they thought was necessary. Depending on the person, each's bundle would be different, but that was part of the Quest itself.

From the large tree that stood between the village and the forest, Mali hid within the branches, surrounding herself with enough magic to remain invisible to the Arisans who would be gathering soon. The silouhette of her body dissolved, merging into the browns and greens within nature's camoflauge. Ageless and beautiful, she had done this a thousand times before, and yet each year was as precious to her as the one before.

Knowledge, discovery, truth, acceptance: such things would grace themselves to her Destined. She had only to wait, and watch as they joined together, planning for the trials and tribulations they would face ahead.

ooc: I know, I said no ooc's, but... *winks* sorry. My character will remain hidden until everyone who has joined the thread thus far has written a message (or until I have given them enough chance to *w*). Please react amongst yourselves until then. Thank you.

 

[darrenfate]

HECATE

Hecate rose early, his mind clear with where he had to go to begin the Quest. His body was lean and light following his fast in the cliffs. He assembled a bundle instinctively knowing what to collect. Lastly, he gathered his black pearl talisman. Carefully then he laid it into a pouch stitched into the front of his leather tunic. Binding it tight with a drawstring, Hecate ventured out.

He went straight to the clearing that was etched into his mind from the last night's dream. He looked about, and saw no one. He sensed he was but the first to arrive. Gathering wood from the nearby trees he made a fire in the clearing's center. It's warmth and light radiated out in all directions, chasing away the last of the night's gloom. Hecate could not shake the sensation that he was being watched. No matter, he decided. I am where I should be. He sat back to wait.

 

[poohlive]

"Yes, I want to buy a horse, and enough provisions to get me out of here."
The elderly man gave him an odd look.
"You sure?"
Garret nodded, he had been planning it for a long time. Now, with the resources in his pocket, he could finally do it. He took out the emerald, shining brightly as it reflected the sun.
"I'll expect plenty of extra money as well."
The man glanced at the jewel, and then picked it up in his hands. He eyed it over in the light, making some sort of motions with his mouth. Garret wondered if perhaps the man was feeble, he looked of sound mind though.
"You are one of them, aren't you?"
He put the jewel back down, Garret grabbed it, looking at the man with some confusion.
"One of what? Look, I didn't do anything, I don't care what rumors been going around. I just want a horse and some supplies..."
He interrupted, "That jewel, you are one of them. I can't take it away from you, it's your destiny. Please, leave."
Garret left the shop, scratching his head. The old man must have been crazy. Taking in a deep breath, it would be best just to forget the whole thing.
What best way to do that, with some breakfast. He walked over to the nearest tavern, and got himself a nice table in the corner.
"Just give me a some steak and eggs," he said, dropping a few coins on the table. The waitress nodded, leaving him alone.
One of them?
Stupid old man, probably thought he was his long lost grandkid or something. Waiting for his breakfast, he sighed, looking out into the small marketplace.
What a dump, he couldn't wait to leave.

 

[quixotic sammie]

Sapphire and the Wise Woman

I was having just the very best time at the gathering of young women from the village. A sister of one of us had turned the corner on her fourteenth Sping Season, was steady in her Moon cycle, and so of course she was now a woman in the village. This was the best kind of celebration if you ask me. Just us, no lingering, learing males or squeaky children. Dancing, music from the lute, the lyre, the drums and many other ingenious musically instruments. The village was noted for its musical talent, and I counted myself as quite good at the lute, which was normally reserved for males, but which I have always insisted on playing. I think the attention it won me was appealing to me.

I wore a small dress of crocheted wool, warm enough for the season, but alluring and flighty to the eye. I especially liked the new sandals I had been able to acquire in exchange for some tutoring to the children. Good solid soles but and intricate weave that worked its way about above my calves. I liked the way this left my thighs bare between my sandals and my skirt.

But today my partying, many said I did too much of it, was cut short.

One of the wise women of the village drew me away and although I resented it, I could hardly confront her in front of all the young women. Even I didn't dare that.

We sat in a nice glen at the edge of the forest, under a tree, legs crossed and settled on a large quilt that was often left out at this spot, as it was a popular place to stop and chat. My first kiss, had in fact been stolen here, so it always brought a secret smile to my face.

'This is a wonderful surprise,' I said with my nicest smile, 'but why have you asked me to join you now My Mistress?' ('My Lady' was a normal term of respect for a grown woman, but 'My Mistress' was reserved for a chosen few older wise women. So you see? I do know my place?)

'I know the rumors, the stories, the fantasies you have heard as you grew up in the village My Dear (proper term for a young woman).'

'Of course,' I laughed tossing my hair back, 'but it is all silliness, the stories children enjoy. All that fanciful stuff of the bag of jewels and how I got my name. It is fun to think about, but I am sure I am just a child lost in the forest and lucky enough to be taken in by the village.' (Always praise the village when talking to one of the wise ones.)

'Hmmmmm, My Dear, but you see, I was there that day, and I have been given the guardianship of these ever since.'

And on to the quilt below us she poured out, from a leather bag, a spill of the most beautiful blue I have ever seen. At first I thought it was some magical dark blue water, but then I realized what I was seeing. Many, many, more than you could count small faceted jewels of brilliant colors ranging from almost tourquise to nearly violet and every shade of blue between. They almost made up a living, moving thing as they spread out in front of me. I stared without speach (certainly a rare thing).

'Your namesake Sapphire. Your jewels.'

 

[SoftPanda_2001]

Elder confirmation

I had seen the dismay on your face as the Wise Woman took you aside; yet I knew what she was doing and why. I slowly came up behind you, gently touched your hair, and offered, "She knows, my child, and the azure floating images you will see will lead you." The respect in your eyes told me all I needed to know, and the glance of your vision to the thighs your dress showed told me that you knew as well your destiny. I sensed, somehow, that you knew your destiny was not just to hold these jewels in your hand, but also the future of our tribe and our life.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Awni

She dreamt that night of the glen just ouside of the village. It was her time. She was going to be going on the Jounrey of her life. To establish just what her calling was in this lifetime. She awoke with renewed energy and happiness. She wanted desperately to find her place, She was tired of being alone. Finding no purpose other than communicating silently with nature.
She got up and packed wisely. No room for errors on a quest, if something was needed, and she didnt have it. Well she didnt want to think of the idea.
She packed up warm clothes, her hunting nife, rope, first aid, compass, maps, flint, jerky, water canteen, bedroll, and a few other little items. She walked out of her room, Her mother was standing there. Already crying. Apparently her mother knew, Somehow?
"Mother, Be safe, guard well. And be here when I return please. I will go forth and fulfill my Quest, and hopefully please Mali." She hugged her mother and left the hut.
Apon entering the clearing, she spotted Hecate. Tending a fire silently. She had never talked to him before, but apparently he was on this journey too. Or perhaps just camping out? She didn't ask, for she did not know how to talk to a stranger. She sat diligently on an old log, awaiting the arrival of Mali. Or perhaps some guidance as to their instructions. She felt tingling in the pit of her stomach. She wanted most of all to jump up and do a little dance of celebration. It wasn't everyone, nor everyday one was chosen to fulfill a purpose. She smiled to herself and remained quiet. She did feel as if someone was watching her, perhaps there was an animal nearby, or her imagination was running wild with her again. She sighed and stared up into the lightening sky.
She silently prayed "Thank you so much for choosing me!" She hoped she was successful.

 

[SoftPanda_2001]

Making my way back to the village, in the distance I saw the flames in the forest of a fire. I could not image who else would be out here, so late, and with a festival in the village. I decided to go through the brush, and from behind the cover of trees see who was there. A young man was tending a fire, while a beautiful woman with a rather large sack sat across from him, her hands gently rubbing toward the fire. I wondered who they were, why they were here; and even more, tried to contain myself as the flames cast such a glow on the face of this unknown woman.

 

[BadForm]

Joni 'Jet' Black

There were two people in the little clearing when I arrived. A man and a woman, both unknown. The thought struck me that so was everyone. Even the marketmen had dealt with Mother when we had gone there. I didn't know what to do, or where to go. All I could hope was that someone out there would help me.

"Hello."

I almost mumbled the word in my nervousness.

"Hello... My name is Joni. Can you help me?"

 

[TygerEyez]

Mali

The resourcefullness of the man known as Hecate pleased me to no end, turning the corners of my lips into a hidden smile. Such actions tingled the back of my mind, swirling with the possibilities of this young man's destiny.

However, the entrance of another woman tickled my senses. She was not my chosen, and thus should not be here. My pale blue eyes narrowed, but I let her stay for the moment. When the time to begin the Quest was at hand, she would have to leave. For now, she might prove useful in showing me a little of my Jewels character.

As Joni entered the glade, I sensed her hesitance and nervousness. A shy bud waiting to bloom. I chuckled silently at her, and leaned back against my branches to watch, silent and unseen.

 

[Exosus]

Shattenjager gathered the few possessions he was taking with him; a length of rope, some long needles and cloth, a black head band, which he tied around his forehead, and finally the leather bracelet that held his stone, trusting that the goddess would provide some sort of sustenance, and if not, he could always find roots or berries.

He finished his packing, and grabbed his walking staff, closing the door of his hut and heading instinctively towards the clearing


After many hours, he arrived at the edge of the clearing and eyed the others there suspiciously, before sitting on a stump, his eyes closed as he prayed for the strength to tolerate these violence loving fools

 

[Guest]

Cawyn

Awakening more slowly than usual Cawyn tried to shake the images from his head. The dream he'd had last night refused to fade, he knew it must have something to do with his being chosen for the Quest. While packing up his bedroll he pulled out his latest journal and opened it to a blank page. He began to pen in the impressions of his dream before closing the book and packing it too away.

*minor time skip*

Stepping into the clearing he scanned it's occupants, taking time to impress each one upon his memory before moving on to the next. He himself was not terribly impressive clothed in a plain woolen shirt and matching pants, his dusty blond hair looked as if it needed a thourough brushing, and his skin had a layer of dust upon it from traveling.

 

[Anher]

Last post

[OOC: That was me, just took too long to compose it.]

 

[JediKnight]

Jem

Jem walked into the clearing and looked at the others, some of whom he knew, some he had never seen before. The bundle he carried was unusually light. He had been surprised when he realized how little he actually needed. There was his moonstone, of course, a knife, a small supply of food and water, and not much more.

He looked around the clearing, wondering what was going to happen next. He didn't know much about the quest, and wasn't sure what to expect.

 

[poohlive]

Garret gave a small sigh, twirling the emerald on the table. It spun, reflecting light off of it in a dazzling display. An old man came up, sitting beside him.
"Aren't you late?"
He grabbed the emerald, giving the old man a careful look.
"Late? For what?"
"The journey of course. I'd imagine the other people are already there. Oh, you're going to have so much fun. I remember when I went..."
"Excuse me," Garret looked at the man angrily, "What in the world are you talking about?"
"The Jewel quest. You found that Emerald right?"
Garret nodded, still having it enclosed in his hand.
"There you are. you're a chosen one. Just a word of advice, be honest in everything you do. Honesty, above all else, will help you on your quest."
"A quest? No, I just want to sell it and get out of here."
The old man whistled, and a hawk landed on his shoulder, "That is worthless to anyone but you my friend. Go, see what I'm talking about. The clearing at the edge of town. They'll be waiting for you."
He dropped a pack on the table, Garret saw it contained some supplies.
"Jee, thanks.." He turned, but the man was gone.
"I... uhhh," he grabbed the pack and left. Seemed as good a time as any. Over at the clearing there was indeed a group of people, all looking like they were waiting to go somewhere.
He kept off a distance, not trying to get anywhere near them. People made him a bit nervous, they were either warriors or wizards or people who looked like they were ready for a journey.
In all honesty, this was the last place he wanted to be. The old man said the emerald was useless to anyone except him right here.
So, for now, he would just wait...

 

[jinnysub]

Shom-ani

I picked up the pack that always stood ready for a trip into the forest, for an extended time on the sea. Knife, fishline and hooks, biscuits that I knew would stay uncorrupted for long weeks. Dried fish. Salt. A pair of empty pig bladders which I would fill at the first opportunity with water. A pack of needles. A lodestone. Leather that could be fashioned into many things if the need arose -- foot coverings, a sling. Absorbent moss which could burn readily for starting fires or staunch the flow of blood. Flints. A small supply of herbs that I had found useful in my travels. My bow and quiver of arrows. A blanket of gray wool from the mountain sheep dyed irregularly with greens and brown patches, a blanket that could serve as a cloak, shedding water and providing warmth as well as allowing me to fade into the background.

I debated whether to take my spear, and decided that it would make as good a walking stick as any other, and provide close protection as well. As a walking stick, it would not be extra weight, but a useful tool. Somehow I knew that its protection would, too, be needed.

I looked around my living quarters one last time, wondering if this little piece of home which I had scorned so many nights would ever be "home" again. Spying the ruby, I slipped it, too, into my pack.

As I approached the clearing, I could hear the murmur of many voices. I held back, moving off to the side of the path, to see those who were already assembled. I saw no common denominator in the group -- there were those I knew to be strong as well as the weak, the self-reliant and people who were only comfortable within groups, familiar faces and unfamiliar. There were people I thought prepared, others who looked as if they had never left the protection of the village before.

I held back, under my cloak, back in the shadows just inside the treeline on the edge of the clearing, and waited. Observing the group, assessing its corporate strengths and weaknesses, not knowing if this Quest would thrust me into it or allow me to stay where I was most comfortable. Outside.

 

[JediKnight]

Still standing near the edge of the clearing, Jem heard someone else coming and turned to look. He didn't see anyone at first, but then he saw movement in the shadows. If he hadn't been looking right at that spot, he wouldn't have seen anything at all, but he had spent enough time in the forest to recognize someone hiding. He couldn't see who it was, but there was only one person he knew who was more antisocial than himself.

He made no move to approach Shom-ani or to talk to her. He felt no need to expose her presence if she wanted to remain hidden, and she probably wouldn't appreciate that either. He simply looked at her long enough to let her know she had been seen.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Awni

She shivered slightly, she felt many pairs of eyes on her. There were more people outside the fire light, hovering around silently. She knew they lurked there, but did not know why. She said nothing, merely sat there wondering why they did not approach? She watched as Hectate and Joni spoke on the other side of the camp fire. She didnt try to overhear or probe into their business. She had many other things on her mind. She sat her pack down beside the log and slid off to rest on the ground. Her knees bent she rested her arms over them. Her eyes staring into the night beside her. Someone was there, just out of sight. But she knew they were there. She smiled faintly. Once her eyes adjusted to the darkness, she would see who it was. She had been in the forest enough to have really good sight when it came to humans in there.

 

[jinnysub]

Shom-ani

Somehow I feel drawn to the fire, but resist, staying back with the two or three others I sense in the shadows.

This group, both those in the shadows and those near the fire, draw me as no other group has in many a year...yet the skills necessary for working in such a group are not something to simply be tossed into a pack...

 

[BadForm]

Joni 'Jet' Black

My question brings only silence from the stranger, and that makes me feel nervous. Yet, there are others now, arriving in this clearing. There seems to be something special about these unknown people - something kindred to me. I cannot understand what, but if they are the friends they seem, then perhaps, in time, they will help. I return to the fire and sit quietly, waiting to see what is happening. I curl my legs tight to my chest, and rest my head on my knees, staring into the flames of the fire.

 

[TheSaxMan]

Zunidar

Awakening from his dream with a start, Zunidar suddenly felt drawn to a vision of a jewel. Dressing quickly in his loose black robes and taking his cloak down from a shelf he thought upon what he had been shown. Choosing to travel on foot, he prepared to travel light. Taking only a small amount of bread, a fire-starter, a water skin, and his journal, he set out on his quest. As he walked he realized that it had been over a year since he had last travelled the lands. Seeing a fire in the distance he slowed his pace and left the path. Creeping around the outside of the fire's light, he stealthily observed the people gathered. They were silent, and as he watched them he realized that most of them seemed to be as confused as he was regarding their quest. Hearing the question "Hello... My name is Joni. Can you help me?", he stepped out of the forest and into the fire's light. Realizing that the question was not directed as him, Zunidar watched the awkward silence that lay on the camp. Seeing Joni curl inward confirmed Zunidar's suspicion that the rest of the gatherers were just as nervous as he was. Putting his hand on Joni's shoulder, he sat down near the fire.

 

[darrenfate]

HECATE

I have watched as others arrive, all the while feeling distracted by a presence in the wood. Not malevolent, yet a presence to be reckoned with nonetheless. I realize with a start that I have been addressed, and the words have hung in the air unanswered. Shaking my head to dispel my rude reverie I focus on those before me.

"Joni, I was distracted, forgive me. I will help as I am able, what questions have you?"

Scanning the crowd, I recognize Zunidar, Jem, and Shattenjager. The others I cannot quite make out their faces. I do see Shom-ani. I have always been drawn to those of the fringes. I see her standing there not yet a part of the group, yet not seperate. She belongs, I know this with certainty. I must make her feel so. This time was precious to us all, bonds must form. Trust in each other will be the only way our Quest will succeed.

 

[BadForm]

Joni 'Jet' Black

From ignored to the center of two men's attention, I had never experienced such a shift before. I glaced up from one to other of them, and tried to give them my most polite smile - the effect somewhat ruined by the tears from having been thrown out of my home.

"Please, I don't know what to do... Mother threw me out and..."

...and so my story came out. How I had lived at home with mother, on the farm, tending livestock, since a child. How I had brought water back just yesterday, in which was a 'pretty black stone' - I showed them the tear-shaped piece of jet - and how mother had thrown me out for that. I ended with her strange comment that the same thing had happened to my father, who I had never known.

Heaving with dry sobs, I turned to them and apologised. "Sorry, I just don't know what to do."

 

[darrenfate]

HECATE

As I heard Joni's story, tears welled in my own eyes as I caught the underlying tone of frustration and loss. Closing in, I hugged her - a protective hug born of compassion. I spoke to her, softly -

You are among friends now. You were drawn to us as we were to you. Being here is no accident. Our collective destiny awaits. I am pleased to know you "

Come with me while we greet the others ...

 

[Sweetp4u]

Awni

She over heard the story, though she tried not to listen in. But she couldn't help herself. She felt the girls pain. And for a brief moment felt like strangling Joni's mother. How could someone be so cruel? Heartless and unloving for their own child? She said nothing, just sat there. She had the urge to comfort the girl, but she had two others already there to help her. She sat with her head tucked down on her folded arms, waiting.
She never was good at getting to know people, so she kept her distance. She could never find the right words to interact socially, and usually ended up saying something wrong. She silently agreed with Hecate's words. Amoung people who were about to embark on the same journey she was taking. They were all alike in this, all curious, uncertain and hopeful. All there together for each other in a sense.
She smiled faintly, but still held her spot on the ground seperate from the others. She was too uncertain of herself to go make introductions, for now she would observe them all. She dug into her sack and pulled out her water, taking a sip and putting it back into place. She wondered how long they had to wait for Mali to appear? She turned her head, her eyes resting on the trio across from her. Silently hoping each would find the strength they needed right now.

 

[TygerEyez]

Mali

They have waited long enough, I thought with a smile. Each of their eyes drew towards the fire as its flickering light danced with the shadows on the trees. They had waited since morning, traveling, hoping, fearing everything that was to come.

A small brush of wind was all that they heard as I emerged, revealing myself to them with a silent smile. My pale blond hair hung to my waist, and lightly skimmed the gauzy cloth of my blue dress. The layers of my clothing reached the ground, and only the bodice tightly sculpted my body.

My eyes, the pale blue of my stone the aquamarine, smiled at them, encouraging and comforting as I approached them. I went to Joni first, touching her shoulders until she looked up at me.

I cradled her jaw in my slender hands, and kissed her forehead. "Oh, my child, fear no more. In the days to come you will know what to do, all of you will. Until then, you have yourselves, you have each other, and you have me."

I encircled my arm around Joni's shoulder, and turned to the rest of my Destined. "I am Mali."