Editing Once more with feeling/Logs/Small Group/In Denandsor/Cael, Silveria, and Solitary Talon (Varied)

<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:28:57)</font> Solitary Talon smiles as Cael enters, sitting next to Silveria, holding one of her cousin's hands gently.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:30:21)</font> Cael looks around. "You wan'ed t' see me? You feelin' better, Miss Solitary Talon? How're you today, Miss Silveria?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:31:04)</font> Silveria shakes her head looking a bit tired.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:32:35)</font> Cael frowns. "Anythin' I can do?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:33:03)</font> Solitary Talon looks at her cousin worriedly. <font color=purple>"Are you all right, light of my life?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:37:23)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"I... I'll be fine.  Just a little tired.  Nothing that a nice break and some warm sunlight won't cure."</font> She smiles apologetically.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:37:42)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Do you want to do this outside, then?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:38:06)</font> Cael nods. "You could take a nap, too, if you wan'ed..."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:39:41)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"Oh no, this is fine for now.  No need to worry about me.  You want talk with Cael, let's not inconvience him further.  I'll get what I need later."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:40:07)</font> Cael looks worried. "Wha's goin' on...?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:41:31)</font> Solitary Talon also looks worried.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:44:19)</font> Silveria quickly attempts to get the attention off of her.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:44:31)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"So what was it you want to talk with Cael about?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:44:46)</font> Silveria stands and comes behind Solitary resting her hands on the younger woman's shoulders.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:45:11)</font> Solitary Talon sighs. <font color=purple>"You're not going to distract me that easily, dearest Silveria."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:47:35)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"Tsk, tsk Solitary.  I'm curious now come on.  Can't have Cael staying for long.  I'm sure he is quite a busy... young man."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:48:26)</font> Cael shifts uncomfortably where he's standing. He doesn't like this supplicant-like position, but he'll tolerate it for the moment.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:49:31)</font> Solitary Talon half-turns to look at Silveria. <font color=purple>"...I want to know what you need, light of my life."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:50:37)</font> Silveria sighs and looks away.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:51:02)</font> Cael makes a face. "...why do you keep callin' 'er that, anyway? I's weird."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:51:24)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"I, its nothing really.  Just tired."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:52:15)</font> Solitary Talon looks worried. <font color=purple>"Do you want some kaf, love?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:54:13)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"I'll be fine,"</font> she insists.  <font color=blue>"And Cael its a term of affection."</font>  She once again attempts to shift the attention.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:54:39)</font> Cael's face contorts distrustfully, but he lets it go.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:56:16)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"I uh... will go and come back.  I'm making matters worse I'm sure.  So one moment.  You two chat it up for a bit.  I'll be back.  Play nice."</font>  She turns and starts to walk.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:56:33)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...What's the matter, love?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 13:56:44)</font> Cael frowns, watching her worriedly for any sign of physical disability.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:00:28)</font> Silveria turns softly if not a bit unsteady.  <font color=blue>"Its nothing.  I've just been pushing myself is all.  Nothing to be concerned with.  I and I dunno... I'm not used to the bond as it is now... you know."</font>  She turns and attempts to slink away.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:01:12)</font> Cael splits into three, two of him going to help support Silveria on her way out. "C'mon, we'll tuck you in," they say in tandem.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:03:16)</font> Silveria: <font color=blue>"Thanks Cael.  Now be nice you two... you... you hear."</font>  With that guided she is led, guided, tucked away.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:03:41)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...All right."</font> The sixteen year old says, watching her lover leave with a worried expression.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:04:17)</font> Cael - the real one, as evidenced by that new silver robe he's not been without since before the last council meeting - turns to Solitary Talon again. "'m sorry, Miss Solitary Talon. I'll take care of 'er an' make sure she gets to bed. ...what'd you wan' me for?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:05:40)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"I... I wanted to know if you'd be willing to accept a semi-permanent position as one of my advisers. I could use your perspective on things."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:07:04)</font> Cael blinks. "...huh? Why?" He's not sure he heard her right.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:10:23)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Because sometimes I need reminding that not everyone was born into the nobility, and you can help me with that."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:10:37)</font> Cael frowns, thinking. "Oh."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:11:04)</font> Cael: "Aren' 'visors servan's?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:12:26)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Yes. However, the only service they perform is giving advice to their employer."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:12:32)</font> Cael: "Oh."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:12:36)</font> Cael looks down.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:13:30)</font> Cael: "Do I hafta?" He sounds...hurt? Maybe just disappointed. "I didn' do nuthin' wrong, did I?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:14:20)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...Huh? Why do you think you did anything wrong?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:14:50)</font> Cael sighs. "'cause you're tryin' t' keep me busy 'gain."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:15:46)</font> Solitary Talon blinks. <font color=purple>"I don't follow."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:16:05)</font> Cael shakes his head. "Nevermin'."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:16:29)</font> Cael: "I'll be your frien', if you really wanna have my 'vice, but don' need another "job."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:17:18)</font> Solitary Talon looks hurt. <font color=purple>"...Are you under the impression that I'm trying to give you makework, Cael?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:18:45)</font> Cael: "Jus' like everyone else, yeah."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:19:03)</font> Cael: "I mean, you're already babysittin' me on the 'Art' ministry."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:19:54)</font> Cael: "If you really think ya need t' babysit me even *more*..." He sighs.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:20:09)</font> Solitary Talon looks even more hurt, before standing and moving to crouch next to Cael. <font color=purple>"Trust me. I wouldn't ask for you to do *anything* unless I truly wanted your help."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:22:41)</font> Cael blushes, and looks away. "'m jus' a kid, but 'm not dumb. Like I said, if you wanna talk, I'm happy to talk. I don' think you wan' me as a 'visor."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:23:21)</font> Solitary Talon sighs. <font color=purple>"Cael. Trust me. When have I ever lied to you?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:23:52)</font> Cael: "I's not 'bout lyin'."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:25:29)</font> Cael: "I's jus'..."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:26:27)</font> Cael: "You're real nice an' all, but I don' think anybody really wan's a *kid* as a 'visor. An' 'ployees gotta vote 'long with their boss on stuff. An'... I don' think I'll always 'gree with ya." He looks down, red again.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:29:33)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...Cael. Please. You might be eleven, but you are hardly a kid."</font> The sixteen year old sighs. <font color=purple>"I don't think any of we Exalted can truly claim that description."</font> She looks down. <font color=purple>"Besides, even if you did enter my employ, you wouldn't have to vote exactly how I do. I wouldn't even want you to do so."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:33:20)</font> Cael is bright red with the praise by now. "...okay. I-- I don' wanna work for you. I'd rather jus' be your frien'. If I worked for ya, I'd hafta follow you 'roun' like Shining an' Miss Lilijana do, an'... I'm kin'a busy. Sorry."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:33:36)</font> Cael is toeing the ground shyly.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:34:18)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Okay."</font> The sixteen year old pauses. <font color=purple>"Busy doing what, if you don't mind my asking?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:35:01)</font> Cael grins, a practiced bright gesture. "Mostly'splorin'!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:35:15)</font> Cael: "'sa big city!" He throws all four arms wide to illustrate.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:35:46)</font> Cael: "Also, gang business." He nods seriously. "We're siblin's now, but we still got work t' do."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:37:05)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"You do? What kind of work?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:38:06)</font> Cael waves his hands in abortive gestures. "Uh--- you know. Gang stuff."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:38:47)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"No, Cael, I don't. I'm a Dynast, remember? I wasn't in a gang."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:39:15)</font> Solitary Talon sighs. <font color=purple>"Grandmother wouldn't have let me, even if I'd known they existed."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:39:22)</font> Cael shrugs. "'Slike Dynas' stuff, I think."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:41:23)</font> Cael: "Us'ta be all 'bout makin' sure we had 'nuff to eat, an' makin' sure nobody was hurtin' any of us."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:42:21)</font> Cael: "Still sorta like that, but Daddy makes sure we're fed an' there aren' people who'd wanna hurt us. An' I think anybody who would knows i's not jus' me tha'd be hurtin' 'em for it."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:44:18)</font> Cael's stomach growls, as if on cue.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:44:25)</font> Cael turns *deep* red with embarassment.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:44:43)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"So what kind of stuff do you do now, then?"</font> The sixteen year old asks, suppressing a giggle. <br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:45:04)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"There's some apples over there, if you want a snack."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:45:12)</font> Cael is rubbing the back of his head. "Well, I still get hungry, but i's not Daddy's fau--"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:45:32)</font> Cael is over at the apples impossibly fast, and devours three of them, practically whole.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:45:41)</font> Cael: "Than'sh!" He says, with mouth full.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:45:53)</font> Solitary Talon raises an eyebrow. <font color=purple>"...You're welcome?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:46:45)</font> Cael looks embarassed. "I still eat lots."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:46:57)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...I can see that."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:48:42)</font> Cael: "Um."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:48:44)</font> Cael: "So."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:48:46)</font> Cael: "Yeah."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:48:57)</font> Cael: "Can we still be frien's, even if I don' work for ya?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:49:36)</font> Solitary Talon smiles at him. <font color=purple>"Of course we can."</font> The Zenith moves over to kiss him gently on the cheek.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:50:16)</font> Cael squeaks, turning red again, but he hugs the older girl. "Yay!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:50:54)</font> Solitary Talon looks slightly amused at Cael's blush.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:56:24)</font> Cael squeezes once, then lets go, slipping with that ludicrous ease of his out of her grip. "Anythin' else I can help with? If you ever wanna talk, I'm happy to. Or if you've got somethin' you really wan' my advice on righ' now...."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 14:59:06)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Hmmm."</font> The sixteen year old looks thoughtful. <font color=purple>"I don't suppose you know what kind of things Unspeakable Rite likes, do you? I want to make sure she feels truly welcome here."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:00:13)</font> Cael looks down. "Not really. I don' know her very well. She pro'lly needs clothes, though, 'cause she didn' have any when we met. I think I had more than she did!" he sounds truly shocked by this.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:01:29)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Really?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:02:19)</font> Cael: "Yeah. Jus' some scraps. Remember the ones I had on? Hers were flimsier. An'"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:02:22)</font> Cael: "An' smaller."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:02:58)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...I see."</font> Solitary goes somewhat red imagining this.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:03:51)</font> Cael quite innocently gestures to the region that was covered by his own scraps, and then at his chest. Mercifully, the skinny little boy's form is covered by quite nice clothes bought by his father.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:04:21)</font> Cael: "She wouldn' lemme taste 'er, so I don' know 'er as well as I'd like. I hope to get to know 'er better when she comes to visit!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:05:05)</font> Cael: "She seems t' think the other 'byssal tha' Miss Nuwa fought with is kin'a dumb. She's nice, when she's not tryin' to take over my home..".<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:05:15)</font> Cael: "Kin'a like you!" He grins.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:05:31)</font> Solitary Talon blushes slightly. <font color=purple>"Thanks."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:07:32)</font> Cael: "...can I ask you somethin'?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:07:43)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Of course."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:08:47)</font> Cael: "Um... Daddy says... 'e says you're a scared teenager, an' tha' you're 'penden' on your slaves. Wha's he mean? He won' tell me. He keeps gettin' 'vasive, like when I ask 'bout the Palace of Infinite Desire. I don' see why; the priestesses there're real nice."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:13:18)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"I... I'm not sure."</font> The sixteen year old answers. <font color=purple>"He's probably right, though."</font> She looks down. <font color=purple>"I... I didn't have other companions for a while after I Exalted."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:13:39)</font> Cael: "...so they're like my gang?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:14:34)</font> Cael looks sad. "I'd be real sad if I los' my gang. They-- well, they're my siblin's now, but they've always sorta been, y'know?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:14:51)</font> Solitary Talon moves to hug him.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:15:31)</font> Cael hugs back. "...you okay?" he asks, his tone not worried about himself at all.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:16:05)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...I think so."</font> The sixteen year old says. <font color=purple>"You seem sad about something, though."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:16:56)</font> Cael: "Jus' thinkin' 'bout losin' my gang...again. Never did fin' Twinin' Vines. 'Macculates pro'lly had 'em executed." The sorrow in his voice is old, no longer debilitating.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:17:12)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...Who?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:19:49)</font> Cael pulls away, grinning with old hero-worship. "Twinin' Vines. He was the leader of the gang 'for I 'Xalted. When he Exalted, he started leadin' us on real awesome stuff. We were real rich for a while - well, rich f'r a gang. You an' Daddy an' all the others make what we had look real poor, but you gotta see, it was lots to us."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:21:06)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...I see."</font> She looks curious. <font color=purple>"How old would this Twining Vines have been?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:22:02)</font> Cael: Um...<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:22:56)</font> Cael thinks a moment. "He said he was fifteen, but he didn' look's old as Vik does. Maybe Dhiren's age. But 'xalted age weird, so maybe. Anyway, he said he was fifteen when I was nine, so... seventeen?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:22:59)</font> Cael: "...why?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:24:12)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Oh, nothing. Dim memories of cousin Fallup asking Mother to foster someone with that name, is all."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:24:46)</font> Cael: "...huh."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:25:23)</font> Cael: "Won'er if they let 'im live... Dragonblooded don' get killed jus' for being 'Xalted, 'least. Though he was caught tryin' to rob the place."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:26:59)</font> Cael: "Emari an' I rescued the others af'er I 'Xalted, though."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:27:38)</font> Solitary Talon looks confused. <font color=purple>"Why didn't he just ask them for help feeding you?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:28:32)</font> Cael makes a face. "Some of us'd'scaped 'maccualte schools before! They're not fun. An' they're always so dour an' mean."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:28:43)</font> Cael: They wouldn' help 'less we lived there.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:29:32)</font> Solitary Talon looks troubled. <font color=purple>"...I see."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:29:46)</font> Cael: "An' they always wan'ed us t' bow an' scrape an' do whatever a Dragonblooded said. ...Emari says... she used t' get special treatmen' from a coupla them...but she hated it."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:30:18)</font> Solitary Talon goes from troubled to angry. <font color=purple>"How dare they?!"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:30:29)</font> Cael swallows. "Every now'n'gain, when we were *real* hungry, she'd go do somethin' with 'em again, too. She had some money, then...but she was quiet an' wouldn' talk 'bout it."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:33:45)</font> Cael steps back a little. "...wha's wrong?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:34:03)</font> Cael: "Emari wasn' tryin' to be bad! She was jus' gettin' enough to help us when we couldn' steal it!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:34:06)</font> Solitary Talon looks incensed. <font colorpurple=>"Oath-breakers..."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:39:42)</font> Cael: "Oath...? Huh?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:39:47)</font> Cael looks confused.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:40:13)</font> Cael: "I didn't swear any oaths... Well, 'cept to protec' everyone, an' I think I-- *swallows* 'cept for Shofei, anyway." He looks down.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:42:24)</font> Solitary Talon winces, hugging the Lunar. <font color=purple>"I didn't mean you, Cael. I meant those filthy, dirty, 'celibate' Immaculates. They had no right to force themselves on your friend."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:43:23)</font> Cael frowns. "...huh?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:44:00)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"You said she got'special attention' from a couple of them."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:44:55)</font> Cael: "Mos'ly visitors. A'least, she wen' to townhouse Dragonbloods' places when she wasn' stuck at the 'mmaculates' place."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:44:59)</font> Cael: "Why?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:45:30)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...I see."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:46:00)</font> Cael: "But she didn' hafta do that much when I 'Xalted." He grins.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:47:07)</font> Cael looks proud of himself.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:48:44)</font> Solitary Talon looks mollified. <font color=purple>"Good. I'm proud of you, Cael."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:51:17)</font> Cael rambles a bit. "Vik joined af'er we rescued the others. I think he likes Emari, but I think *she* likes Dhiren, 'cause she looks at 'im like she useta look at Twinin' Vines. I think he 'minds her of 'im. But Dhiren likes Miss Nuwa, so Emari's gonna be sad. An' Vik doesn' wanna be our brother 'cause...well, he LIKES her, an' he thinks that'd be creepy."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:52:04)</font> Cael: But the little ones all listen to both of 'em, 'cause they've always sorta been our biggest ones, even if I'm in charge now. An' I think they'll stay with me 'cause they're my family. I don' think they'll leave.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:54:24)</font> Cael looks up at Solitary Talon. "I mean...like your slaves. Would they really go away if you couldn' punish 'em, or if you made 'em 'ployees so they could stay 'cause they wan'ed to? It'd--" he swallows, "It'd make everyone happy, wouldn' it?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:54:34)</font> Cael: "Or'm I bein' dumb?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:54:53)</font> Cael's three alien eyes search Solitary's, hoping she's not mad at him and that he hasn't said anything bad.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:55:47)</font> Solitary Talon looks thoughtful and somewhat sad. <font color=purple>"I ...I'm not sure some of them would ever be truly happy unless I was dead, Cael."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:56:10)</font> Cael looks horrified. "Then why would you keep 'em!?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:56:20)</font> Cael clearly thinks she's talking about her slaves.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:56:30)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...What?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:57:02)</font> Cael: "If you've got slaves who wan' you dead, why would you wanna keep 'em? Sen' 'em away where they can be happy. THey're jus' mortals; they're no threat."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:57:44)</font> Solitary Talon looks confused <font color=purple>"...What are you talking about?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:58:18)</font> Cael: "You said your slaves wan' you dead!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:58:24)</font> Cael: "Tha's not like a gang at all!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 15:59:39)</font> Solitary Talon facepalms as she realises how he misunderstood her. <font color=purple>"I wasn't talking about my slaves, Cael. I was referring to Dhiren and his friends."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:01:12)</font> Cael frowns. "Dhiren hates slavery 'cause he had a mean master. An', I think, 'cause he wasn' ever s'posed to be a slave. I think he'd like you if you let 'em go, 'cause you're nice an' if he didn' have tha' big bad thing in his pas' he'd not have reason t' hate you. But Daddy says you can't let 'em go 'cause you're afraid t' lose 'em. Why do they hafta go away if you let 'em not be slaves anymore?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:02:38)</font> Solitary Talon clearly doesn't understand him. <font color=purple>"...Huh?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:02:53)</font> Cael: "I know I'd jus' run away if somebody tried t' make me a slave without me lettin' 'em. Some of my gang did the same. Li'l Jace was sold by his mommy, 'cause it paid for feedin' all 'is brothers'n'sisters, but he didn' like it. Vik says he useta live in the threshold 'til 'e was kidnapped."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:03:08)</font> Cael blinks. "Huh? Um, what'd I say confusin'?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:03:14)</font> Cael clearly lost track of his own ramblings somewhere in there.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:05:09)</font> Cael: "Um, 'bout Dhiren?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:05:32)</font> Cael: "I don' think he'd hate you, 'cept for him hatin' slavers 'n general."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:06:32)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"No, about my slaves having to go away if I freed them."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:07:08)</font> Cael: "I don' know why they would. They're your frien's, your gang, righ'?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:07:54)</font> Cael: "I mean, Daddy says tha's why you're scared of losin' 'em..."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:10:12)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"He does?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:12:25)</font> Cael: "Yeah. He says everyone's bein' mean 'cause they're tryin' to take 'em away rather'n w-- ...um. I don' 'member the word, but I think it means make it ease away."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:13:02)</font> Cael: "He says you're scared 'cause you 'pen' on 'em, an' so people should stop tryin' to take 'em away."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:14:55)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...I see."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:15:08)</font> Cael: "..." He steps back. "..."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:15:14)</font> Cael: "I made you mad." He looks down "Sorry."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:16:07)</font> Solitary Talon sighs. <font color=purple>"No, Cael, you didn't."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:16:34)</font> Cael: "Is Daddy wrong?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:16:44)</font> Cael: "'Cause I don' get it."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:16:49)</font> Cael: "I'm missin' somethin'."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:20:37)</font> Solitary Talon looks away. <font color=purple>"I'm not sure. I'd like to think he's wrong, but I'm afraid that he's not."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:23:15)</font> Cael gently lays a little hand on her arm. "Why're you 'fraid?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:23:55)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"Be... Because I shouldn't be dependent on my inferiors."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:29:10)</font> Cael: "But... they're your *gang*. Wha's wrong with bein' 'pen'ant on your gang? They're not 'feriors. They're mortals, but they're people. Don' they wanna be there for ya?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:30:32)</font> Solitary Talon looks confused. <font color=purple>"They're *mortals*. Of course they're my inferiors."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:31:10)</font> Cael: "...would you be sad if they left?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:31:28)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...Yes."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:31:59)</font> Cael: "If they're your 'feriors, why'd you be sad?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:33:18)</font> Cael asks quietly, gently. Like a sweet little brother or mom.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:36:37)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...I don't know, Cael."</font> The sixteen year old says, looking sad.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:39:09)</font> Cael: Woulja wan' Miss Silveria to stay only 'cause she had to? Not 'cause she wan'ed to? If they stayed 'cause they loved you, like my gang does... *hugs himself, uncertainly* <br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:40:01)</font> Cael: "W--" He sniffles. "woulja call me a 'ferior, if I didn' 'Xalt? Do you th-think Em-mari's w-worthless?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:41:24)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"But... But the light of my life is an Exalt, like you and I."</font> The sixteen year old pulls him into a hug. <font color=purple>"And I don't think Emari's worthless. She's a free human. She might not be worth as much as an Exalt, but she's not a slave."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:42:39)</font> Cael: "Wha' 'bout Vik, or Jace, then!?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:42:59)</font> Cael: "An' I'm no better'n any of my gang... I'm jus' more powerful."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:43:10)</font> Cael: "Means I can take more'n they can. I gotta protec' 'em!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:43:56)</font> Cael: "But they take care of me, too."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:44:26)</font> Cael: "Slaves are people, jus' like Emari an' Vik an' Jace. An' Dhiren, too. He was a slave."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:45:58)</font> Cael: "An'... an' I think you know it, or you wouldn' be sad if they lef'! You're not a bully. Not like Splen'or... I don' think you are." He dives in to hug her. "You aren'!"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:46:45)</font> Solitary Talon hugs him back. <font color=purple>"Th... Thank you, Cael."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:50:31)</font> Cael squeezes. Not hard, but tight. He's careful with his wooden arms. "I don' wan' you sad. I don' wan' you scared. Dhiren's not a bad guy. He's really nice, 'cept with slavery. Nobody wan's you dead, I promise! An' if they do, I'll keep you safe, I really will."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:52:13)</font> Cael: "But you shouldn' be scared of your gang. You shouldn' think of 'em so bad. If they wanna leave, they'll hatecha for keepin' 'em, like Dhiren did. Ask 'em to stay. Be their frien', their protec'or."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:53:28)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...Okay. Thanks."</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:54:03)</font> Cael: "Jus' like my gang, but you can feed 'em all. An' you do. Why would they leave? If you free 'em... If they stay, won' you be happy? Happier, 'cause you know they wanna be with you? Like Miss Silveria, an' Miss Lilijana, an' me? An' then you can be frien's with Dhiren!" He sniffles into her shoulder.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:54:07)</font> Cael: "--'welcome."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 16:54:54)</font> Cael: "--an' --an'... If they leave, an' I'm wrong..." He sniffles. "I'll replace'em. I'll get ones that won' wanna leave ya. Ones who'll like you like I like you. I promise."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 17:03:08)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"...Okay. Thank you, Cael."</font> The sixteen year old holds her Lunar friend tightly.<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 17:04:24)</font> Cael squeezes back. "You're welcome. I---" he blushes, squirming a bit, but not trying to get away. "I'll always be your frien'. I'll try to be there for you...I will."<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 17:05:26)</font> Solitary Talon smiles. <font color=purple>"I know you will."</font> She kisses the Lunar on the cheek softly. <font color=purple>"Oh, while I'm thinking about it, would you like to take one of these bracelets?"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 17:05:52)</font> Cael makes a face. "Aren' they girl-jewelry?"<br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 17:07:21)</font> Solitary Talon giggles. <font color=purple>"They're so we can keep in touch, silly!"</font><br>
<font size="2">(09/11/09 17:08:04)</font> Cael: "Oh. Sure! How's it work?"<br>
<font size=1>(09/11/09 17:09:21)</font> Solitary Talon: <font color=purple>"I'm not entirely sure, but Antonee said it was something like the Bond."<font>