Senkha & Ludovick: October 29

Ludovick knocks on the door, holding a package wrapped in plain, brown paper in the crook of his right arm.

Senkha is sitting quietly by the fireplace, reading. Every so often, her eyes dart back to Dizzy's room and then to the door. When she hears the knock on the door, she stiffens warily and stands, calling out quietly, "Who is it?"

Ludovick replies in his usual monotone voice, rubbing idly at his left eye with a balled fist. "Ludovick."

Senkha exhales slowly and undoes the locks on the door. She opens it just enough for Ludo to get inside and beckons him in, the wards around the door thrumming. "I'm glad to see you, Ludo. Come on in."

Ludovick steps inside with a bow of his head, cradling the package with care. "It is good to see you, Senkha."

Senkha gives Ludo a soft smile as she closes and relocks the door, once again causing the wards to hum. "You'll have to excuse my caution...the -thing- that seeks to take my daughter was in these parts earlier. I cannot afford to be at all uncautious."

Ludovick quirks a brow at this, standing with his typical rigid posture, as if a rod has been shoved up his back. "Excuse me?" He asks, frowning. "Did I hear you correctly? What sort of creature would wish to abduct a child?"

Senkha wrinkles her nose and gestures to the seats by the fireplace, indicating that they should sit. "A madman. He's convinced that Dizzy is -his- daughter, not ours. He's caused more trouble than I care to think of." She turns slightly so that the silvery scar on her cheek shows more obviously. "He's like the thing that won't die."

Ludovick makes quite the face at this, working his jaw in displeasure. "How odd," he comments, instead stepping towards her to hand the package over. It feels like it has cloth, or something of the sort inside. "Do you require my aid in ridding yourself of him?" He gestures towards the package. "Ziichi mentioned your daughter liked to wear 'pretty dresses', so I thought I would perhaps give a long overdue gift of thanks for your friendship."

Senkha hugs the package to her chest and smiles at Ludo. "I appreciate it, and I know Dizzy will as well. As to Bordros...to be frank, we can use all the help we can get. Oliver and I have handily dispatched with several of his incarnations, but unfortunately actually destroying him is proving more of a hassle than I typically care to admit." As she talks, she walks over to the door to her daughter's room and places the package on the floor there so that Dizzy will see it when she wakes up.

Ludovick returns to his deadpan expression, watching Senkha go and return. He makes a sweeping motion with his right hand towards the chairs. "Ladies first," he says flatly, bowing his head.

Senkha nods her gratitude and goes to take a seat in the corner, in one of the chairs that's tilted towards the others, ideally suited for conversation.

Ludovick walks with a slight limp, seating himself after she does with care. He sits with a straight-backed posture, hands clasped together in his lap. "I apologize that our last efforts in arranging tea did not go well," he says in reference to the 'Faronne incident'.

Senkha wrinkles her nose almost delicately, crossing her legs. She runs her hands lightly over the new scars on her abdomen, humming thoughtfully. "Nothing that weekend really went as I would have hoped. Much of it thanks to that...Price woman." Though she says woman, it's pretty clear she's thinking of far less ladylike terms.

Ludovick makes a slight face at this, though he quickly composes himself back to his blank look of apathy. "Yes, I believe she has caused all of us quite a bit of trouble," he comments, patting at his jacket with his right hand. "Do you mind if I smoke?"

Senkha shakes her head. "Not at all," she answers and sighs, resting her hands on her knees. "My apologies if the subject is delicate for you. She somehow managed to concoct a drug made of -souls- that she forced on my husband, creating an addiction for him within the first dosage. It's affected my every waking thought since." She tucks her hair behind her ears nervously, glancing up the stairs to her bedroom and then back down at her hands in her lap.

Ludovick visibly winces at all of the Faronne talk, busying himself with taking a cigarette out and lighting it, puffing away as if to occupy himself. However, he can't stay busy with it forever, and does speak, frowning. "Senkha, may I request your confidence in a delicate matter? I apologize for already ruining our evening with such heavy subjects, but I am afraid you have already got my mind started on such."

Senkha nods quickly, lowering her voice. "Naturally, I'm happy to keep any confidence of an old friend. I fear that these days, heavy subjects are simply to be expected; you needn't apologize."

Ludovick bows his head in a nod, lowering his voice as well as he regards her with an even gaze. "I seek to redeem Lady Price," he says bluntly, watching her to gauge her reaction, as if she may throw him out of the house for the very idea.

Senkha 's eyebrows shoot way up, almost into her hairline. She doesn't speak for a moment, and before she does speak, she vaguely touches her hand to the whip scars on her exposed back. "...that is quite a heavy task," she murmurs, finally. "Is she -willing- to be redeemed or is she still stubborn in her..." She screws up her mouth as if all the words she's thinking of taste bad. "...maliciousness?"

Ludovick purses his lips for a moment, then takes a drag off his cigarette. "A little of this and a little of that," he says with a bit of a scowl. "There is good in her, Senkha. She needn't die because no one is willing to understand," he says flatly.

Senkha looks skeptical but nods, glancing at the stairs once again. "You're as good-hearted as Oliver in that sense," she comments dryly. Now her hand touches the ugly scar down her abdomen. "...just be careful, my dear friend. So much care can often cost lives."

Ludovick almost mimes her, except he goes to pat at the area where his left shoulder meets his chest idly. "I am doing my best. I simply do not want her slaughtered whe-," he cuts himself off, looking down at the ring on his right index finger. -
Ludovick shoots Senkha an apologetic glance, mouthing 'Ziichi' before muttering into the ring.

Senkha looks mildly alarmed at this, though she keeps her mouth shut, touching her hand to her own signet ring.

Ludovick continues to mutter into the ring, looking concerned and suddenly very, very tired.
Ludovick mutters something that sounds a lot like 'Mariius', sighing.

Senkha raises an eyebrow at Ludo, very curious but reluctant to ask for clarification. After a moment, she settles for a logical question: "Is Ziichi alright? Dizzy was very worried about her earlier today."

Ludovick looks up from his muttering to open his mouth as he looks at Senkha before closing it. Jerking his head in a 'so-so' sort of manner before turning his attention back to the ring.
Ludovick is taking quite a few drags from his cigarette now, looking flustered.

Senkha continues to watch Ludo with concern, waiting until he's finished talking to his hand to speak again. Occasionally, she manages a sad sort of smile at him, trying to be some help without interrupting the ring conversation.

Ludovick slaps the palm of his hand against his forehead as he mutters.
Ludovick covers his face with his palm.

Senkha says: ...does she need you, Ludo?

Ludovick shoots Senkha the most dead tired look, holding up a finger as if to say 'one moment'. Talk faster, Ziichi.

Senkha nods and folds her hands in her lap, looking infinitely patient. Woman must deal with a dead husband who has the guiltiest guilt complex of all time or something.

Ludovick mutters something about being 'concerned', head now buried in his hands as his cigarette pokes out from between two fingers.

Senkha looks as if she may want a cigarette herself. Without really thinking much about it, she reaches over and pats Ludo on the head, gently and comfortingly. Yay frands.

Ludovick turns his head a little to look at Senkha, smiling sadly as he flat out speaks in his normal tone into the ring. "Would you talk to Senkha?"

Senkha raises an eyebrow at Ludo, looking surprised at his suggestion. "--eh?"

Ludovick sighs, pushing himself to lean back against the chair, shaking his head at her with a shrug. "Will you promise to be safe at least?"
Ludovick is still talking into the ring of wonder.
Ludovick lets out a long, drawn-out sigh.

Senkha still looks surprised but folds her hands in her lap just the same and looks at the rug. Intently.

Ludovick rubs at his temple with his thumb and forefinger. "Remember that I love you, lamb," he says quietly, letting out another sigh.

Senkha glances uncertainly at Ludo, pursing her lips.

Ludovick smacks the back of his head against the wall as if suffering with this conversation. "I love you very much, and I will. Please, call on me should you require anything," he says into the ring, eyes going wide a moment later at what is probably response.
Ludovick mutters a very sad sounding "Goodnight, lamb," into the ring before laying his hand in his lap, looking over at Senkha. Suddenly, he looks a hell of a lot older, and a hell of a lot more tired. "Ziichi says hello," he says flatly.

Senkha looks up again, frowning. "Dizzy said she was threatening to kill herself today. Was that more of...that?"

Ludovick shakes his head. "She said she is going to Darkshore, and that she does not wish to see anyone. I told her Marius would not approve, though she seemed to think that he finds her a burden."
Ludovick nearly spits Marius's name.

Senkha grimaces and shakes her head. "He doesn't. He's...well. The trouble with Marius being a stand-in for your father is that he is a stand-in for everyone's father. You don't have the exclusivity...well."
Senkha says: But he never thinks of people as a burden.

Ludovick nods at this, taking a much needed drag off his cigarette. "I may not like the man, but I do know that he cares for her, as do I, and many others. I almost wish to meet her in Darkshore and drag her back to that damned ship, but what good would it even do, Senkha?" He asks with an exasperated sigh, propping his head up in his right hand, elbow resting on his knee.

Senkha sighs and reaches over, resting her hand on Ludo's forearm, comfortingly. "The trouble is that I think Ziichi...well. She's been very fifteen lately. I tend to see her as older because of the hell she's been through, but at the end of the day, she's very fifteen. I know how abysmally I behaved when I was that age, and all I had to bear were the wounds from my parents' unkindness. I can't imagine...well." She shakes her head as if clearing some image from her mind.

Ludovick lids his eyes at this, nodding lazily as he pats the hand on his forearm, withdrawing his own hand afterwards to take another drag from his cigarette. At the thought of what Ziichi has been through, Ludovick shudders somewhat, having seen insider her mind. "I wrote to Marius," he says quietly, "About helping her." He looks over at Senkha, almost as if saying 'yes, I have even done that'.

Senkha 's eyebrows shoot up again. "Helping her how?" she asks after a moment's quiet, bringing her hand back to rest in her lap. Vaguely, she glances towards the book she left by the fireplace.

Ludovick sits back up, letting his hands fall into his lap once again. "Ziichi told me that she wishes to rid of her mind of," he pauses, searching for the right words, "certain things. I believe I can help, with of course, assistance from Marius and perhaps others."

Senkha actually sits straight up at this, staring at Ludo as if he's just said something unbelievable. "She-- you're going to do what? Remove...but. That...is that--" Any composure she may have had is diminishing rapidly. Her brane is borked :(

Ludovick doesn't seem all too shocked by this, as if he's some sort of scientist with an odd theory about kobolds that no one will accept. "It is the only option I can think of other than letting the girl waste away and die, which I am not going to sit by and do," he spits, not angry at Senkha, perhaps just bitter over the whole subject. "I wish to understand more about what is going on in her mind. Perhaps preform...," he pauses, tapping at his bearded chin.
Ludovick says: A mental exorcism, if you will.

Senkha stares straight ahead as if puzzling through the problem herself. "...would work if it was an imprint that Borgen left there causing the nightmares but can physical torture leave imprints without mental invasion?" She stands, walking over to her book and flipping through, dazedly. "I...huh. Are you going to remove her memories or try to find the source of the nightmares?" She sounds somewhat flustered still and somewhat scientific.

Ludovick puffs away on his cigarette, which is nearly down to the end of itself. "Never remove her memories, Senkha. Never," he says flatly. "I only wish to find the source of her nightmares and ferret it out like the demon it is." He watches her flip through the book with a lazy sort of interest, as if too tired to give details away when she can simply spout them out for him.

Senkha trails her fingers down the page and visibly blanches at what she reads. "So a simple physical act can leave an imprint. The invasion doesn't have to be mental. But is it better to remove the imprint for her or to teach her to fight back?"

Ludovick 's brow raises at this, and he folds his left leg, resting his ankle atop his right knee. "That, my friend, is a matter of time. How much time do you think she has? If it is decided she can last long enough, then training her to fight it herself would be ideal. If not, we must kill it before it kills her," he says bluntly.

Senkha gives a wry smile, leaning backwards. Her concern seems to have diminished significantly. "Marius trained my Guardian to destroy an imprint in the course of a few hours. Granted, he's called me a bit of a prodigy, but I think that if the three of us worked together on Ziichi, she could manage it, too. If she doesn't seem to be making progress, we can destroy it."
Senkha sounds more than a little proud when she talks about being a prodigy, like a child talking about the only thing she's good at. Because, well. Yeah.

Ludovick bows his head at this, producing a small metal case from the inside of his jacket as he snuffs his cigarette out inside it, closing the lid and stowing it away again. "Did he now?" Ludovick asks, eyes always on hers if possible. "At any rate, I simply want Ziichi to sleep in peace, and not the sleep of the dead." At even admitting this, Ludovick sighs, swiping his now free hand back to rub at the back of his neck.

Senkha nods her understanding. "Dreamless Sleep potions occasionally help me...admittedly, when my nightmares were the worst, I was either not in a place where I could afford them or was too physically injured to take them." She continues to meet Ludo's eyes her gaze honest and open. "Have you taught her meditation techniques at all? When I was afraid to sleep, Stehl taught me to meditate so my mind could rest."

Ludovick shakes his head, looking guilty all of a sudden. "No, I am afraid we simply never had the time." At this, Ludovick begins to dig around inside his jacket for another cigarette, as if distraught.

Senkha nods her understanding, shifting the blame from Ludo. "And I know Ziichi isn't very patient. She wants immediate relief for her pain...I...nngh." She grimaces, looking away quickly and suddenly giving a funny sounding laugh. "I remember how it works. Trying to fill that Lightdamned hole and nothing's big enough. Not sleeping for weeks on end because you're afraid of what you'll see when you close your eyes. Feeling like the rest of the world is moving on when you're stuck in one place." She seems unaware that she's rambling on about ~feelings~ and simply gives another short laugh.

Ludovick listens to her, eyes on her at all times as he lights up his fresh cigarette and draws from it every now and then. "I know exactly what you mean," he says, voice a dead monotone. "It pains me to know that, well, I do know how the girl feels in a way, and yet I cannot help her. I tried every idea short of flage-," he breaks off, as is remembering himself, taking in a deep breath and exhaling. "I failed her, forgive me."

Senkha sighs and shakes her head, her hand once more going to the scars on her back. "I can't wish the whip's lash on any one I love, especially not on one who's done nothing to deserve it," she murmurs. "Ultimately, the only thing that can heal those wounds is time, but Ziichi...she hurts too much to allow for it. So there really is no other option."

Ludovick lids his eyes as he nods in agreement with her, though he slowly opens them brow knitting as he studies her like some odd sort of bug he's never seen before. "You do understand that flagellation is a joyous occasion, and not one to despair at, do you not? I apologize if I am overstepping my bounds, Senkha, but your comment has me curious."

Senkha nods, brushing her hands at the air in Ludo's general direction as if to dismiss any offense in his comment. "It's a release...an escape. I've stopped doing it because it causes pain to the ones I love, but I do understand."

Ludovick doesn't seem too happy with this at all, lips pursing tightly as he looks away from her. "Those who love you should understand. I go through the same thing with Ziichi," he admits.

Senkha says: ...it's not that. It's...well.
Senkha closes her eyes and turns her head towards the stairs. "--Oliver and I are bonded. What I feel, he feels. I wouldn't cause him pain he doesn't want, as...mm. Well."
Senkha can't really put it into words, but she assumes Ludo knows what she means.

Ludovick 's eyes glance back to her, though his head is still turned away. "I see," he says flatly. "At any rate, I am glad to know I am not alone in my wish for self-purification. So few truly do understand, and I am sure you know this."

Senkha laughs dryly and nods. "It's not something most people understand, no. I'm...I'm glad that you do."

Ludovick lips curve into a smile as he finally looks all the way back to her, cigarette resting in his mouth, bouncing as he speaks. "It is all I have, and it is all I need, friend," he says, expression that of someone thinking fondly of an old friend.

Senkha reaches over and squeezes Ludo's wrist again, lightly, sharing a similar smile with him. "My confessor is the same way. He...well. Used to be part of the Scarlet Crusade. He's a good man, though."

Ludovick nearly laughs at this, and does in fact, barely stifle a snicker. Oh, the irony. "Oh? May I ask who this man was? Perhaps I know him through the, er, church?"

Senkha says: Miles Campion.
Senkha smiles very fondly at the thought of Mr. Campion, eyeing her whelp curled up by the fireplace and snoring. "Strangest confessor ever."

Ludovick seems quite intrigued by all this, even lifting his chair a little to scoot closer and listen. "I have not heard the name, but he sounds to be a most interesting man. What was so strange about him?"

Senkha laughs at this. Where to begin! "Well, he smokes like a chimney and curses like a sailor, for starters. He has a whelp whom he's raising as a daughter and was involved in a crime ring. He was also married to a man." Senkha blinks after saying this and adds, "...in confidence, of course."

Ludovick makes a bit of a face at all of this, more of shock than disgust. "One out of five isn't bad," he mumbles to himself, turning his attention back to Senkha after a drag from his cigarette. "He sounds like quite the character, Senkha. And of course, I will not breathe a word."

Senkha smiles her appreciation and touches Ludo's hand lightly again. "Thanks, Ludo. It's been wonderful seeing you again, even though things are far from the way they were."

Ludovick smiles in return, genuine, placing a hand over hers. "It has been wonderful seeing you as well. I must confess that I do not make, well, friends that easily, so it is quite the pleasure to have someone to speak to about things other than faith, not to say that faith is not important," he adds, as if catching himself, clearing his throat. "Also, if I may bring up a heavy subject yet again...," he trails off, smile fading into a thin line.

Senkha simply nods her encouragement, sitting back in her chair.

Ludovick removes the cigarette from his mouth, blowing a cloud of smoke away from her. "If you find a way for your husband to combat his addiction to the drug, Zeal, please inform me," he says bluntly.

Senkha exhales slowly and looks back at the stairs. "...from what we understand of the drug, it binds itself to the soul. Short of removal of those souls from the soul to which they've bonded..." She looks worriedly at Ludo, putting two and two together.

Ludovick leans his head down to smack the palm of his hand against his forehead, resting his head there as his elbow props his arm up against his knee. "I was afraid of that," he says with a sigh.

Senkha slips off the chair and moves closer to Ludo, resting her hand lightly on his knee. "...how long have you been using it?" she asks in a barely audible voice.

Ludovick doesn't look at her, as if painfully ashamed of the fact that this conversation is even happening. "Perhaps a week, maybe longer," he says quietly, staring down at his boots as his cigarette hangs precariously in-between the middle and index finger of his right hand. "It was forced on me at first, I will have you know," he adds.

Senkha squeezes his knee lightly. "It was forced on Oliver as well. It...it made him -alive-." Her voice drops to a hoarse whisper at the last word, and she takes a shaking breath.

Ludovick gulps at this, not having known the effects of Zeal on an undead man until now. "It -what-?" He asks her far more sharply than intended, head turning to stare at her in disbelief.

Senkha grimaces at this. Despite the obvious implications of such a situation, the memory obviously isn't entirely pleasant for her. She nods. "He was alive. Blood, heartbeat, warm skin. I've never seen him so happy. But..." She trails off, not sure how to explain herself further, because really, how do you explain that you prefer your husband as a zombie?

Ludovick shudders at this, turning his gaze back to the floor. He bites back quite a few choice words on the subject, not very cozy with the undead being given anything but a sword to the skull. "It does not do that to the living," he says, toying with the cigarette in-between his fingers before taking a much needed drag.

Senkha gives a short, wry laugh, shaking her head. "Obviously. What -does- it do to you, if you don't mind my asking?"

Ludovick doesn't seem to find the subject too humorous, shooting her a surly glare before going back to pretending the rug on the floor is very interesting. "Euphoric pleasure," he spits. "Followed by nightmares."

Senkha says: ...that sounds about right. When it wore off, Oliver...he decayed before my eyes. And all the work I'd done for him was undone.

Ludovick huffs through his nose, shoulders hunched. "Lady Price must be stopped," he says flatly, "but not with the threat of death. She is a good woman, Senkha. That woman is just simply lost for the time being."

Senkha nods reluctantly, not quite agreeing but more acquiescing. "She -must- be stopped. Ludo...Marius and I want to test a sample of Zeal to see what it's really made of. If we did that, we could possibly break your addiction without ripping the souls from where they're bound to your own."

Ludovick grunts, moving to lean back in his chair. "I could bring you a sample, though to be honest I do not know how long I could keep it in my possession without succumbing to temptation."

Senkha looks at Ludo hesitantly. "What if you had help? If, perhaps, someone helped to turn your mind from the craving?" She looks down quickly. "I understand if not. There are other ways of obtaining a sample."

Ludovick puts out his cigarette, already starting on yet another. Chain-smoking is go. "Forgive me for being so foolish, but I am afraid I do not follow you, friend. When it comes to Lady Price, I work alone. She trusts me, and I her...to an extent."

Senkha hesitates a moment longer, then closes her eyes and furrows her brow. A moment later, Ludo would feel a sense of someone pushing at his mind--gently, not unkindly, but definitely wanting to come in.

Ludovick glares at Senkha for a moment, though his gaze softens to more of a miserable frown. "My mind is not the most hospitable place, Senkha, I will warn you," he says with a tinge of humor. "I am ashamed to say my want for this Zeal has grown quite strong. At first, I thought myself able to resist it through sheer force of will. However, the want for it, combined with," he purses his lips tightly for a moment, "other forces makes such resistance difficult. I will accept your offer of assistance, if you accept my request for silence."

Senkha gently retreats from his mind, less as a sign of fear and more out of respect. "I never share any secrets I discover when I delve into someone's mind. And...I've been into the worst minds this world has to offer. Believe me." She gives him a small smile.

Ludovick bows his head, cigarette resting in his mouth as he presses his hands together almost as if in prayer, tips of his fingers resting at the bridge of his nose. "I will put my trust in you, as an old friend," he says, returning her smile. "I apologize in advance for what you will find there. I assure you I have atoned for every transgression."

Senkha raises her hand to her heart, inclining her head in respect and understanding. "If you were to delve into my mind deeply enough, you'd find that I am in no position to judge you in any way, my friend. Our sins are likely of equal weight."

Ludovick smirks, staring at nowhere in particular across the room. "It pains me to think that I almost wish to challenge you on such. Perhaps it is a childish impulse brought out by our meeting once again."

Senkha 's smile turns devilish. She leans back in her chair. "For several years after leaving Andorhal, I was a contract thief and assassin and I relished in the killing." Gauntlet thrown.

Ludovick quirks a brow, parting his hands from their position of prayer to sit up in his chair, fingers stroking his beard as he plucks the cigarette from his mouth. "After Lordaeron fell I joined the Scarlet Crusade and tortured dozens of men and undead alike," he says with a wolfish grin, almost as if delighting in horrible secret telling.

Senkha presses her lips together a moment, pausing as if to think. "I lost myself to anger and tortured my husband, forcing him to relive his death again and again...all because of a miscommunication."

Ludovick smirks at this, probably a bit too happy at the thought of zombie-husbot getting his due. "I strangled a woman simply because the service I paid for was not preformed in a timely manner."
Ludovick shoots Senkha a 'your go' look.

Senkha gives a wry smile, clicking her tongue against the roof of her mouth. "I slept with more men than I can count to make extra money while I was a barmaid."

Ludovick flat out bursts into laughter at this, slapping his knee. "Dear friend, I slept with the whole of Lordaeron before I was seventeen!"

Senkha also laughs, shaking her head. "Not -all- of Lordaeron, unless something happened while I was sleeping that I didn't know about." To this she adds, "The reason the pirates captured me was because I betrayed my friends to them...and that was the reason no one rescued me either."

Ludovick looks about ready to make a joke at Senkha's expense, though he thinks better of it and instead focuses on making this friendship as awkward as possible. "I impersonated a dead man tonight. A dead man I killed while in service to the Crusade. I used every bit of information I learned about him from our torture session. That is, before he expired."

Senkha 's laughter seems to be dying down significantly; we're getting into unhappy stuff here. "I killed children once. Once. It was a contract job, and I didn't cause them pain. I...stopped contracting after that. Fucking goblins."

Ludovick notices her pace changing, and his expression molds to fit it. He becomes deadpan, like he is with most company, taking drags from his cigarette after nearly every sentence. "I gave information that sent an innocent man to his death, simply because I was feeling impotent at the time."

Selvaggia & Lius: October 28

Selvaggia tugs really hard and manages to remove the pumpkin from her head. Her hair is covered in pumpkin goo and she doesn't look happy about it.

Lius pats his pumpkin.

Selvaggia says: What, don't want to see what I'm going to do to you, pumpkin-head?

Lius says: Jus'...jus' nae sure 'ow t'go about removin' it.

Selvaggia says: ...well, I could tug it off. Or maybe see if I could cast something on it that would make it really brittle and shatter it.

Lius grabs his mace, thwapping the pumpkin hard. The mace smashes through, leaving a hole, but doing little to remove it.
Lius says: Well...

Selvaggia walks right up to Lius and glances around, as if expecting someone to catch her at any second. "Don't move a muscle. I don't want to hurt you." With that, she casts a simple Curse of Weakness on the pumpkin attempting to make it more brittle.

Lius thumps the side of the pumpkin with his fist, it breaks and slides away. Hooray, fresh air! "Tha'....is far better."

Selvaggia grins, dropping her hands to her side, but not before plucking some pumpkin goo from Lius' hair. "You don't mind, do you? What I just did?"

Lius shakes his head, sending a bit of goo ERRYWHERE. "Nae really. Stehl isnae aroun' t'get all pissed."

Selvaggia wrinkles her nose and laughs at the pumpkin goo flying all over the place, trying to pull some of it from her own hair. "I don't -like- to do things like that, but...well. Fel magic has its advantages. A few of them."

Lius says: World is splittin' in two it feels like, I donae thin' Fel magic is a major source of concern..

Selvaggia smiles sheepishly, resting her forearms on Lius' shoulders. "Well, then. Shall we?"

Lius says: Aye...'spose it's abou' tha' time.

Selvaggia looks around and sighs softly. "I -do- wish this place was less of a dump, but it will do, for now."

Lius says: Aye...so...wha' needs t'be off?

Selvaggia mumbles something about "everything" but more loudly says, "Well, that depends where you would like me to begin cutting."

Lius grins, his back remaining turned to her. His shoulder dips, the medical bag sliding away. "Tha's yer call, doc."

Selvaggia says: Well, perhaps we ought to start at the top and work our way down. I promise not to cause anything vital to rupture.

Lius nods and begins to remove STUFFS. "Tha's quite a promise. I feel safer already."
Lius lifts himself up onto the table, sitting there with a stupid grin, his legs kicking like a child.
Lius says: Directions!
Lius shrugs, his legs still kicking off the edge.

Selvaggia also grins, pulling her mask up and tucking her hair behind her ears. She opens her surgical pack and removes her very own lancet--yay for wedding presents--and holds it in the palm of her hand to heat the blade.
Selvaggia says: Well, would you prefer for me to cause you pain or for this be an actual learning experience?

Lius says: Tha's yer call, aye?

Selvaggia smirks and steps forward, running her fingers against his bare chest for a moment before testing the hot edge of the knife directly above his pectoral muscles. "My call it may be, but it is also your body. I'm simply unsure how much you can take."

Lius does his best not to move, or show any reaction at all. "A fine night t'find out, aye?"

Selvaggia gives a slanted grin. A challenge! "That it is," she murmurs and presses the blade in further, cutting a long and jagged line down the length of his chest. The cut isn't deep, but it's one of those surfacey cuts that just stings when the air hits it.

Lius rolls his bottom lip under his teeth, his eyes closing for a split second before he gathers himself. He doesn't speak, just stares at her.

Selvaggia continues to smile, twisting the blade a tiny bit before removing it. A bit of fire flares around the fingertips of her opposite hand; she drags one fingertip down the length of the wound to cauterize it.

Lius forces himself to keep breathing, though his body is screaming for him to hold it. His posture has already started to shift, slightly hunched. "Tha' all?"

Selvaggia shakes her head, grinning and twirling the knife between her fingers. "I'm simply getting started...'warmed up,' you might say, if you were feeling punny." She brings the lancet to his chest again, digging in deeper this time, working the blade in a definite pattern.

Lius lets out a gasp at this, his eyes slamming shut. Fingers wrapped around the edge of the table, he fights to stay upright.

Selvaggia laughs softly, wickedly, finishing the first design and moving onto the second. As she bears into his skin again, she cauterizes the first wound with the fingers of her free hand. She is very good at multitasking.

Lius fights to free his right hand from the table, eventually it releases the table and moves towards her neckline. He presses it flat there, his face twisted in pain, though a grin still lay across his lips. He obviously isn't thinking straight. His hand still flat against her chest, just above her breasts, a holy flame ignites from his pointer and middle fingers, digging into the flesh.

Selvaggia almost drops the lancet at this, gasping at the sudden pain, and then laughing as if she's enjoying it. She presses onward, though her hands are now shaking somewhat, working on the third part of the design and cauterizing the second.

Lius fights on! His eyes squint in a mixture of concentration and pain, doing his best to focus on the flame. His fingers trail across her neckline, searing flesh along the way.

Selvaggia lets out a soft groan, not quite of pain and not quite of pleasure. It's a battle of the wills now, though, and she's determined to win. "C-careful...you're g-going to have to live with-th it if you m-make me mess this u-up..." she murmurs and digs the knife in, creating the fourth part of the design and cauterizing the third.

Lius is quite obviously biting on his lip to deal with the pain. Small trails of blood leak down along his chin, his eyes close once again. The flame leaps to a third finger, all of which now dick into her flesh and scrape further to the side.

Selvaggia freezes in her work, giving a small cry of pain, the flames on her fingers flaring even further, leaving burns on his skin. She screws her eyes shut for a moment, trying to regain concentration, and finally sets to work on the fifth and final part of the design. It's more intricate than the previous pieces and takes a little bit longer...and it still needs to be cauterized.

Lius is no longer paying attention to what he's burning, his hand slips under the cloth of her tunic, his fingers trailing down her shoulder and arm, likely taking cloth with it. His teeth part and his bottom lip is free, a small groan escaping.

Selvaggia gasps softly at this, the cloth of her tunic falling aside, leaving her shoulder and quite a bit of her arm exposed and burned. She freezes in her design again, regaining her composure before twisting the blade in the final curl of the design. Once this is done, she lays the lancet aside and traces her fingers along the cuts she's made on his chest until the wounds have all cauterized. She drops her hands to rest on the table, breathing heavily.

Lius forces his eyes open as the last cut is made, wandering to the trail of seared flesh he's left behind. With a single shake of his hand the flame is gone, leaving his fingers bare to trace along the damage. "Quite..." he pauses, out of breath, takes a deep breath, pain heavy on his voice. "Quite th'contest..."

Selvaggia hums her agreement, swallowing a few times before she can speak. When she does, her voice is airy and strained. "Wanted to finish my work..." she murmurs, leaning her head forward to rest on his shoulder.

Lius nods, his eyes still locked onto the dark streak of seared flesh. "Wonder 'ow deep tha' goes.." He shrugs, tapping a finger against the freshly burned skin.

Selvaggia flinches as he taps her new burn. Odd that she's flinching now and not several minutes ago when the burn was made. She leans back some to admire her work on his chest and smiles. "...mm. Not bad."

Lius grins at her response, his fingers rolling along the burn in taps. "Mhm, tha' was fine work. Were...y'drawin'?"

Selvaggia hisses in pain with each tap and responds by tracing her fingers along his wounds, light enough to cause something of a sting. "Mm, I was. I...I think it's turned out nearly perfect."

Lius hisses lightly, his taps now landing with more force. "Wha' is it ye were drawin'?" He mutters, not daring to look down.

Selvaggia, rather inadvertently, presses harder against the wounds she's created. "Runes."

Lius grabs ahold of the arm she's using to prod, his free hand still taunting the edges of the burn. "Aye? Wha' runes?"

Selvaggia shifts her hand back to lace her fingers with the fingers of his free hand, pulling it away from the burn. "Nothing evil or related to fel magic...they're the sort of things Elves used to protect their lands. I was...marking you." She ducks her head clearly embarrassed by this.

Lius nods, not fighting the movement of his hand. "Tha's acceptable. Markin' me...as if anyone else will see 'em."

Selvaggia relaxes some as he's no longer tapping against the burns he's just created. "It's more than that...they have power to them. They'll protect you and tie you to me." And she exhales slowly, bringing her head up to rest against his shoulder again.

Lius smiles, pulling his arm free to loop both around her. "Protect me? Tha' sounds lovely...th'ole linkin' us though. Aye, tha' 'm a fan of."

Selvaggia allows herself to be pulled closer to him, turning her head to kiss his neck. "I'd read about deeper methods of linking people, but I don't think you would approve of them. It's very dark magic indeed."

Lius tilts his head on instinct, his grip around her tightening. "Dark magic...Stehl woul' some'ow sniff it out."

Selvaggia drags her lips along the length of his neck, nipping lightly at the skin there. "I know he would. As it is, I'm terrified to see him again for another several days because of what I did to your pumpkin."

Lius says: 'E is mostly 'armless. Jus'....alot of 'itting.

Selvaggia says: Would he simply hit someone whom he knew to be practicing dark magic?

Lius says: 'E would 'it me fer it.
Lius says: Nae sure 'e would 'arm you.

Selvaggia hums skeptically, bringing her hand up to Lius' head and running her thumb along his cheek, still kissing his neck. "Are you sure of that? He doesn't like me very much."
Selvaggia says: I'm halfway convinced he's waiting for an excuse to cut my head off.

Lius says: 'E can be hateful, aye. but 'e is a good man all in all.

Selvaggia says: Even towards...people like me?

Lius says: 'M nae sure. Nae ever seen him cut down a member of th'Alliance.
Lius says: So....there's tha'.

Selvaggia takes a hesitant breath and blows out slowly. "...it would involve me taking a piece of your soul. Not much, not a lot. But...just the same. It's -very- dark magic, and I'm not even certain that I could viably do it without hurting you."

Lius ponders this for a moment! He lets out a whistle, smiling lightly. "Piece of m'soul, aye? Tha's some grim shit."

Selvaggia runs her fingers down the opposite side of his neck, eventually resting them lightly against the wounds she created earlier. "Fel magic is rarely cheerful."

Lius says: Mhm, I 'spose tha' makes sense...'ow woul' this ritual go, exactly?

Selvaggia says: Very simply, at least in the set up. I'd only require a summoning circle and the protective runes those entail. After that, it would be a question of finding your soul, taking out just enough to tie you to me, and materializing it.
Selvaggia adds, in a much lower voice, "More complex rituals exist to bind the essence of our lives together, but those are extremely dangerous and require a great deal of...well. Nothing we can acquire."

Lius says: An' jus'...'ow would we be tied together. Wha' effects woul' it 'ave?

Selvaggia says: With the simpler ritual, I would carry a part of you with me. I would know if you were ever in danger or hurt. I'd be able to find you more easily...but it would be more like a compass than anything else.

Lius says: Tha'...doesnae exactly sound all tha' evil.

Selvaggia shakes her head, still resting against his neck thoughtfully. "I don't believe it is. Most people believe soulplay to be necessarily evil, but ultimately, I think that it is the goal of the magic and not the magic itself that is evil or good."

Lius nods lightly. "Aye, perhaps we shoul' give it a try..."

Selvaggia stiffens a bit, inadvertently digging her fingers into the fresh wounds on his chest. "...are you serious?" she just barely whispers.

Lius winces a bit, nodding. "Aye. I mean, I love ye an' all"

Selvaggia says: Enough to give me a part of your soul?
Selvaggia says: ...that's less love and more trust.

Lius says: Th'two are closely related, aye?

Selvaggia just now realizes that her hand is on his chest. "Aye," she murmurs, moving her head so that their foreheads are touching.

Lius says: Jus' nae sure 'ow I would explain it t'anyone. Is it possible to detect?

Selvaggia presses her lips together, considering. "It might be, at least initially. The processes used to find the soul and extract a bit of it -are- fel magic, so more perceptive people would notice a taint around us for a few days. After that, though..."

Lius nods again, eyes unfocusing as he rolls the thought around in his mind. "So...would 'ave t'stay away from people fer a wee bit, aye?"

Selvaggia closes her eyes and hums her confirmation. "Only a few days. We've only just got back, I know."

Lius says: Perhaps bes' t'wait until we 'ead off fer somewhere, aye? Another trip t'Stromgarde, or somewhere else...jus' where people willnae notice it. Or...if they do, where we can silence 'em.

Selvaggia opens her eyes at the idea of silencing people; there's something slightly malicious in her voice as she speaks. "...the other ritual requires half a body's worth of blood."

Lius grins again, his grip growing tighter. "Nae of our own, aye? Hrm...perhaps two birds with one stone. Jus' 'ave t'string a body upside down, let it flow."

Selvaggia blinks a few times at Lius, as if she's not quite certain she heard him correctly. "...you would be alright with this? We would have to drain the blood early enough that I would have time to prepare the ritual circle, and--" She cuts herself off breath suddenly shallow and excited.

Lius says: We jus' fin' someone tha' deserves it anyway, aye? Nae 'arm, nae foul. Aslong as nae one else fin's ou', I donae see th'problem.

Selvaggia takes a shaky, hesitant breath, bringing her hands up to hold onto his arms. She looks amazed but somehow also ravenous as she smiles at him. "Well. If we're up in Stromgarde or something like that, I suppose a greenskin would do the trick."

Lius smiles, eyes shifting from spot to spot on her face. "Always loved cuttin' through their muscle."

Selvaggia also smiles, leaning in to brush her lips lightly against his. "Now, we must be careful if we do this, as we cannot waste too much blood with dissection, as much as it pains me to say so."

Lius lets a small sigh loose at the contact, a smile taking his lips. "Plenty o'th greenskins up there. Nae a rule tha' says we jus' 'ave t'take one." He whispers, tilting his head to kiss her.

Selvaggia closes her eyes, leaning into the kiss and exhhaling slowly, shakily. Whether her breath is shaking because of the kiss, because of the prior pain, or because of the idea of killing several greenskins, is anyone's guess.

Lius leans his forehead against her own, the smile never leaving his face. "We're jus' servin' th'Alliance at tha' point, aye?"

Selvaggia reaches down, lightly tracing her hands along the very edges of the wounded portion of his chest again. "Aye," she agrees after a moment's consideration and laughs. "Hell's bells, you're every inch as wicked as everyone thinks I am, and I love you for it.

Lius chuckles, allow a hand to roam higher towards her shoulder, brushing against the seared flesh. "We're nae wicked, Selvie, jus' of a different sort than th'others."

Selvaggia hisses in pain, though her fingers still just tease around the edges of his wounds. She is smiling. "Of a different sort. I rather like that."

Lius nods, his fingers tracing along the streak. "Th'bes' way t'explain it. We 'ave our lovin' moments, some may consider th'rest t'be dark...bu' they 'ave no say."

Selvaggia closes her eyes and lets her head fall back some, relishing in the pain. "Mm, they haven't. What we choose to do with our own lives and hands is between us; no living person can judge us."

Lius smiles wider, adding further pressure. "Tha's m'girl. So...now we 'ave t'pick a day fer this."

Selvaggia groans quietly in pain, her fingers trailing upwards to his fresh wounds. "Hallow's End is approaching...my half birthday is the fifth of November..." She seems to be having trouble concentrating on dates.

Lius nods lightly, moving his fingers a couple inches along the burn. "Mhm?"

Selvaggia exhales slowly. "--and your birthday. Or we can ch-choose a different date, one without any real importance."

Lius shakes his head. "Such'a long time t'wait if we decide on m'birthday."

Selvaggia says: Well, what date would you prefer, then? Something much sooner or simply sooner?

Lius says: I was thinkin' much sooner...before th'world splits in two 'er wha'ever it is tha' it is doin'.

Selvaggia raises an eyebrow at her husband, smirking slightly. "Are you thinking this weekend much sooner or tomorrow much sooner or...?"

Lius shrugs. "Whenever. I donae much care, nae any plans. Sit on th'bench, get 'it by Stehl....tha's abou' it."

Selvaggia pauses to consider and finally nods. "How about a week from tonight? That will give me time to collect the materials, give us time to find a few 'assistants' and make our excuses..."

Lius thinks on this for a second, giving a nod to confirm. "Aye, tha' sounds proper."

Senkha, Oliver, Salarous & Marius: October 24

Senkha's shoulders sag; she decides that her own family's health is more important than old friends. "...wanna go to the Lighthouse, love?"

Macglynn says: Th' Lighthouse! Don't y'think we should be not leavin' Dizzy alone?
Macglynn says: An' fuck th' runes.

Senkha says: You might not have faith in Marius, but if those runes are good enough to protect -his- daughter...

Macglynn says: Ah trust mah own two hands more'n anythin' else.

Senkha sags again, tired of arguing and just plain tired. She leans her head on the front of the saddle. "You can barely walk."

Macglynn also sags forward in the seat, his chin resting on the... dragon neck thing. "Don't ask me t'xplain it."

Senkha says: We'll go home then.
Senkha says: Oliver, I...I'm sorry. About this whole thing.

Macglynn says: Ah don' even know whut happened.

Senkha looks straight ahead as she talks. "Whatever it was that woman gave you, your body already thinks it's -necessary- for your suvival."
Senkha says: If I'd stayed, as you asked me, it wouldn't have ever happened.

Macglynn says: Ah didn' ask you t' stay.
Macglynn says: Or... did-
Macglynn frowns.

Senkha nods slowly. "You did. You said Dizzy needed me here."
Senkha says: All I could think of was tearing that monster apart...and I did. And now things are a mess.

Macglynn says: Oh please dun' start feelin' guilty over that too.

Senkha sighs, frustrated, pressing the heels of her hands into her eyes. "I'm not guilty. I'm...I'm afraid, Oliver. I'm afraid of what this has already done to you."

Macglynn looks at her, insulted. "Nuthin's been done t' me! Ah ain't runnin' off after 'er a 'spite all we know, right?"

Senkha cringes at the tone of his voice, looking away. "No. You're not. I'm just afraid of what I felt when I looked tonight...you're not going after her, but if you had some of it in your hands, would you be able to give it to me and let me take it away?"
Senkha may not be looking at him, but she's definitely staring at his mind to see if he'll be honest.

Macglynn says: It wouldn' be possible t' split it?

Senkha closes her eyes, her shoulders sagging.

Macglynn looks at you.
Macglynn says: What?

Senkha makes like she's going to walk to the door, almost in a daze, but then simply sinks to the ground and just stares, her hands resting face-up on her lap, shaking.

Macglynn falls to his knees beside her and wraps an arm over her. He leans in close. "Senkha. Ah don't like lookin' without you tellin'. Please -tell me-."

Senkha 's shaking only grows worse as Oliver puts his arm around her; she's actually beginning to hyperventilate and sob uncontrollably. If there are any words coming out, they can't be understood.

Macglynn looks at her desperately. "Senkha, please!" He removes his arm from around her and crawls in front of her and takes her by the shoulders, trying to get her to face him. "Please."
Salarous slides from his saber and moves over quietly- dropping his shadows as he approaches.

Senkha continues to hyperventilate and sob, hands and arms shaking uncontrollably. She's shaking her head no, no, no, but she doesn't even know what she's saying no to. Some primal part of her tries to grab onto Oliver's hands but she can't seem to find them. This only makes her panic more.

Macglynn's attentions are so focused on Senkha he doesn't see Salarous approach. He moves his hands from her shoulders to her cheeks, his hands shifting with them as she shakes her head 'no'. He tries to get her to focus on him. "Senkha. -Please-."

Salarous steps forward quietly- "..Senkha-...Oliver have you the strength to carry her within?" Eyes lidded, he peers from the couple to the door behind the Knight.

Macglynn looks up at Salarous, his eyes tired. After a moment, he confirms, "Yes."

Senkha once again tries to hold onto Oliver's hands, finally managing to catch hold of them, but her hands are so shaking and tense that she actually claws at her own face in the process. She sounds about a moment away from screaming.

Macglynn whispers into Senkha's ear as he stands and picks her up. His knees buckle a bit; he's clearly not ready, but be walks to the door just the same.

Salarous says: - Is the door unlocked?
Salarous moves to try and open it.

Macglynn says: Yes.

Salarous pushes the door shut firmly and turns, frowning quietly.

Macglynn sets Senkha in the chair and kneels by her side, holding her steady.

Senkha doesn't fight against Oliver's arms around her, but she's fighting against something. She has no idea what. She seems to have no idea that they're even in the house or that anyone else is there. If not for Oliver holding onto her, she'd have fallen to the floor by now.

Macglynn whispers: *"Sal'rus is 'ere. Y'called an' 'e's here, gunna be okay."*

To Macglynn: *She can't conceal her emotions and he doesn't even have to dig for them. Everything she's felt the past three days is right there on the surface, along with something that almost sounds like Senkha screeching in rage, YOU DID THIS TO HER! YOU DID THIS!*
To Macglynn: *it all resembles a very messy tornado*

Macglynn smiles at Senkha, calmly.

Salarous - If Oliver was not there, he perhaps would speak- or try to comfort her. But with him here he does not feel it is his place- and so, arms set over his abdomen, he watches with quiet eyes. He would be here if he was needed.

Macglynn 's smile fades, as though something's just struck him across the head. His hands shake, but he holds onto her. It looks like it pains him to do so, but his eyes slide over to Salarous and he mumbles, "... Help me calm her."
Macglynn says: Uh.
Macglynn says: Please.

Salarous frowns quietly at Oliver, "...Are you alright?" He moves down to kneel infront of Senkha- he watches her a moment, then firmly grasps her features. "Senkha. -Senkha-. *Look at me.*"

Mariius grumps. And lets himself in.
Mariius : -He just as quickly leans against the wall and folds his arms.

Senkha cringes at Salarous' touch. She's still sobbing hysterically and hyperventilating. Also, excitingly, she's beginning to send out waves of extreme emotion towards anyone who happens to be in the vicinity. It's ugly, guys. Some part of her tries to obey Salarous and look at him, but she only manages to succeed for a few seconds at a time.

Salarous - Mental barriers aged thousands of years hold steady: The emotions wash over him, giving him tastes of what she was suffering but held firmly at bay. "Senkha. Good- good. Hold my gaze, Senkha. Look at me." He takes one of her hands- presses the palm of it firmly down against his own chest. "Slow your breathing- In. Out. Do you feel? Like this." He inhales deeply- exhales slowly, having her feel the rise and fall of his chest. "Come now- try it with me." He tries to maintain her gaze- breathing in and out, slow and deep.

Mariius doesn't seem to change, much. He shifts just-so, utterly quiet.

Macglynn is not thousands of years old and his illusions and mind powers are kind of like card tricks compared to these people, so he just tiredly- and worriedly- holds Senkha stable.

Senkha 's hand claws inadvertently at Salarous' chest, but after a moment, she manages to focus on him. She tries to match her breathing to his, but it takes a while for it to actually take effect, and her breathing is shaky either way, choked with sobs still.

Salarous ' voice is surprisingly soothing- its dark timber encouraging as he holds her gaze. "Good- ...good. You're doing well, Senkha." He doesn't seem to mind- or give much attention to the clawing; simply holding her hand in place. His other rises- brushes gently at her features and presses ebony hair back away from her eyes. "You're safe- you're alright. Oliver is here- Marius and I are as well. Everything's alright." He moves just a touch, going to gently tip her chin in MacGlynn's direction.

Senkha 's eyes dart almost frantically between Salarous and Oliver, her hands slowly calming their shaking. The hand that's not on Salarous' chest she reaches over and puts on Oliver's left cheek. She's still not speaking, though, but she is much calmer.

Macglynn blinks at you.

Mariius says: ... What happened, Salarous? *Softly*

To Macglynn: *Don't leave me.*

Macglynn says: Ah'm not gunna leave you.

Mariius doesn't say it. Gods-- he never would. But there are times he think Oliver should, however much he supports their relationship.

To Macglynn: *Don't leave me. It's less to do with the panic of that moment and more to do with the entire situation: mentally and physically.*

Salarous shakes his head a little at Marius- before slowly releasing Senkha back to Oliver and moving back the wall.

Senkha 's breathing slows and calms, her hiccuping sobs diminishing. She lets her hand fall into her lap and sags for a moment, only then realizing that other people are in the house. "--oh."

Macglynn smiles at you.
Macglynn says: Hey.

Senkha says: Oh...oh...oh no. No. I'm sorry, this wasn't...I mean. I didn't mean to...I...
Senkha gives up.

Macglynn 's still smiling. "Welcome back?"

Salarous says: It's alright, Senkha. We have our moments. All of us.

Mariius smirks at Salarous helplessly. "... Some more than others."

Salarous smiles quietly at him.

Senkha blinks at Salarous; even though she's been looking at him and being calmed by him for the past several minutes, she's only just realized that he's here. She then looks to Marius, her shoulders sagging weakly.
Senkha says: --I'm sorry. I should've held it together. I don't know what came over me.

Mariius says: .. You're stressed.

Salarous says: All is well.

Mariius says: I'm sorry if the debaucle at the ship prompted this to occur.

Macglynn says: ... It was me.

Senkha looks at Oliver when he says this, almost like she's about to cry again. "--no. It's not your fault. It's that Price woman's fault for giving you that...that drug without..." She sighs again, looking at Marius. "...he's already dependent on it."

Mariius frowns.
Mariius says: ... Then what--?
Mariius says: he craves it? Physically? Like withdrawl?

Macglynn looks at Mariius.

Senkha makes an uncomfortable face, still leaning on Oliver a lot. "...it's all he's thinking about. Even right now. And...I...I probed deeper than I maybe should have. His body thinks he needs it."

Macglynn admits, shrunk back a bit, "Like it's s'posed t' be that way."

To Macglynn: *It's -not- your fault. You didn't know what it was. It's not your fault. I don't blame you. I don't blame you.*

Mariius says: .. Were he alive, I could perscribe something that would ease the withdrawls. But I've nothing that will work on an undead's chemistry.
Mariius says: Admittably. It's not a situation i've encountered before.

Macglynn says: Ah'll be fine.
Macglynn says the flatly, as if he wants the subject dropped.

Senkha nods weakly. One arm comes up around Oliver's shoulders, trying to hold him closer to her. "I didn't know what to do. After everything, I..." She shrugs, not quite looking at anyone. Nervous breakdowns are embarrassing.

Mariius doesn't really... Say anything. Mostly out of respect for Macglynn. But you can see the worried expression on his face creeping into his eyes.

Salarous says: - If it's getting him addicted, and he can't flush it by the usual means of undeath, it must be afflicting his soul to some degree.

Macglynn says: ... My soul.

Salarous nods gently.

Macglynn lets Senkha go and stands. "--Excuse me."

Salarous says: All the more reason to have it handled sooner then later.

Senkha looks at Oliver, panic creeping back into her features.

Salarous nods once at Senkha- and follows.

Senkha says: Oliver--?

Macglynn runs upstairs and grabs his runeblade, pulling it from the cloth it had been wrapped in. The runes pulse bright- brighter than normal.

Mariius settles a hand on Senkha's shoulder. He calls after his lover gently.

Salarous rests a hand on the doorway, grimacing quietly as he watches him.

Senkha relaxes some at Marius' touch, but she still looks back towards the stairs with concern.

Macglynn holds his blade up and eyes it curiously. He then looks at his left hand and the restored finger. He touches his hand to his neck. He mumbles quiety, "Can't make life from undeath."

Salarous says: What is it, Oliver?

Macglynn turns around. He looks like he's suppressing a great deal of pain. "There's only one thing that'll empower a deader so much he'd feel alive."
Macglynn dramatic gopher turn.
Macglynn lowers his blade so the point rests on the floor. "Th' blade is energized."

Salarous peers at him quietly, "...Is there something that can be done?"

Senkha sags against Marius' hand, as if she's feeling every bit of pain Oliver is feeling. Because, well, she is. Silly thing, these bonds.

Mariius says: ... Energized. *-And he calls up gently.* -What does that imply?

Macglynn 's grip on the blade fails, and it clatters to the floor. He's a little deadpan. "No. They're-"
Macglynn dryly states, "Souls."

Mariius blinks.
Mariius says: ... -Souls-? The sword is energized with -souls-?

Senkha gives a dry sob. She hasn't really got any tears left to cry, but damnit, she'll try.

Mariius cups her cheek, baffled as he stares at the landing.

Senkha says: Th-that's what empowers a Death Knight. Keeps him going. Remember in the h-house in Ironf-forge?

Mariius says: Well-- yes. But why would-- how did--

Macglynn can't support himself in the quake. He falls to the floor.

Senkha says: Whatever that -bitch- gave my husband must have been made with so--

Salarous takes several swift steps forward to try and help catch and steady him- though it mostly fails, given he himself has issues keeping his grounding. Grunts a bit.

Senkha cuts herself off as she hears Oliver fall. She goes to stand but gets dizzy and sinks back down in the chair.

Macglynn holds up a hand. "Ah'm good. Ah'm jus' good... right here on th' floor."

Mariius says: .. That's how she unmade undeath. By injecting his body with temporary life; An echo of life. A harvest of souls.

Salarous offers Oliver a hand up.

Senkha nods weakly, closing her eyes. Suddenly, this burden is a different sort of heavy, and she's not sure if it's better or worse.

Macglynn shakes his head, holding up his hand to decline. He looks like he's in shock somewhat.

To Macglynn: *"You didn't know, you couldn't have known. You didn't take them yourself. -It's not your fault.-"*

Salarous nods a touch, watching him quietly. Mn...

Macglynn dully states, "They're mine, now."

Salarous peers at MacGlynn quietly, eyes lidded. "...It's not your fault. You couldn't have known."

Senkha screws her eyes more tightly shut and leans back in her chair, as if listening for something.

Mariius wets his lips.
Mariius says: .. Could they be freeds, perhaps, with a paladin's calling.

Macglynn says: If th' blade was broke.

Senkha says: ...no.
Senkha says: No, no.
Senkha shakes her head firmly, almost violently.

Mariius nods.

Macglynn says: S-Senkha, they'll be-

Senkha actually shouts it. "NO!"
Senkha says: It's not -worth- it!

Salarous says: That is not an option, Oliver.

Mariius says: .. What's done is done.

Macglynn says: ... Then they are gone.

Salarous says: We'll figure it out.

Macglynn whispers: *and i am damned for living*

To Macglynn: *THIS WASN'T YOUR FAULT*

Mariius takes Senkha's hand to steady her, squeezing gently.

To Macglynn: *You are -not- damned, this WASN'T YOUR FAULT! You didn't take those souls, they were -forced- on you! It's no different!*

Macglynn whispers: "THERE'S A CHOICE."

To Macglynn: *...please*

Senkha sags against Marius' hand, barely whispering, "...please."

Macglynn whispers: "... For you."

Mariius wets his lips.
Mariius says: ... Salarous. You're a warlock. Have you any way to-- ... I don't know.

Senkha says: ...Salarous is a warlock?
Senkha had no idea!

Mariius nods quietly.

Macglynn seems to be in far too much of a moral dilemma right now to care about this news.

Salarous says: ...- I may able to try and soul drain them from the blade. ...It's- not something I've ever tried before. And I'm sure there may be failsafes to the blade safeguarding its souls- but... I can try.

Mariius wasn't afraid to say it; they knew him for his Sindorei orgins.
Mariius helps Senkha up. Eventually he just -picks her up-, knowing how unsteady she is. He makes for the stairs.

Senkha is so glad Marius read her mind.

Macglynn says: It'd likely put me out again, but-- where'd they go from there?

To Macglynn: *For Dizzy.*

Mariius seats her on the bed quietly.

Salarous says: If their bodies still exist, we might be able to find them. If not- we release them to be on their way.

Mariius nods gently. "I can help them find the between."

Macglynn stammers, "Hundreds."

Mariius says: -You didn't kill them, Oliver-.
Mariius says: She did.

Senkha sort of falls off the bed and crawls over to Oliver. He may not want her nearby, but she still wraps her arms around him, settling herself as close to him as she can. For both of them.

Mariius jerks in place. "---!!" But calms as he realizes what she's doing.
Mariius rubs at his face.
Mariius says: ... I don't want that we put either of you at risk. But it's my only thought just the same.

Macglynn says: ... Light whut's happened t'me these past eight months.

Mariius peers at Salarous in understandable concern.

Senkha looks at Oliver with concern and touches her hand to his left cheek. She manages a sad sort of smile at him. "I did. Oops."

Salarous' eyes are lidded and quiet on Oliver, arms folded beneath his chest in a relaxed manner. He doesn't seem especially sunsettled.

Macglynn frowns. He stands, despite her clung status, and straights out his tabard. "Ah became a whiner's whut's happened. Wuz'at you?"

Salarous - An ear twitch, a jerk of his head. For a moment he watches the window- and then back to Oliver and Senkha.

Mariius places a hand on his arm, peering at the window.
Mariius says: ... Why do you do that.
Mariius says: What do you see.

Salarous says: Hm? Nothing.

Mariius says: -It started after Athanae took you.

Salarous rubs at the dark circles under his eyes as he watches Oliver. "...Would you like us to try, Oliver?"
Salarous says: ...- I'm just being jumpy, Mine.

Senkha also stands, still holding Oliver around the waist.

To Macglynn: *"You never whine, love. Even when you have nails in your head or almost die, I've never heard you complain."*

Mariius thins his lips. "...." But says nothing more on the subject.

Macglynn says: No sense not givin' it a shot.
Macglynn whispers: "Sure whine about m'self a lot, though, don't y'think?"

Mariius departs Salarous side, gaining his distance and peering between the two. "Senkha--" And he gestures to her. "With me."

To Macglynn: *"...yes. You do. I do wish you wouldn't...I'm rather fond of you, you know." There's a sort of fondness in her mind and a familiarity. It's part of the making of him*

Salarous nods quietly.

Senkha looks at them and holds her arms around Oliver's waist for just a second longer, kissing his right cheek. She steps back to Marius and wraps her arms around his waist instead, looking small and childlike.

To Macglynn: *"...please don't leave me. I love you."*

Mariius wraps a heavy arm 'round Senkha's person like a comforting shawl.

Macglynn watches his wife leave his side. He looks at Salarous and holds out his blade, his expressions something of, "let's get this shit done".

Salarous watches him for a lingering moment. His guise drops then- the tall Sin'dorei standing with back straight and shoulders squared. "...If you are able- I would ask that you open what channels you can to make this easier- it will be less painful, and more successful, if such things can even occur." A hand is lifted then- and with little to-do, slips of shadow-clad power seep from his palm and leap to wind greedily around the blade.

Senkha is mostly huddled up against Marius, childishly and worriedly, watching the process with wide eyes.

Macglynn nods, and genuflects before Salarous with his blade displayed before him. He lets the shadows twist and grab at his blade, wincing as they do.

Salarous - Hungry shadows reach tiny claws for the essence of souls- they dig in and start -dragging- with the potent force of the power behind it. Salarous eyes narrow- tension running throughout his frame as he feeds his power into the spell: Tearing a soul from a body was difficult- but trying to pull many from a sword? A new experience all together.

Macglynn 's hands tighten around the hilt of his blade, and his eyes widen, flaring with runic energy as his blade reacts to the outside intrustion. The blade itself glows a pale blue, and flames of lichfire whisp up from the runes like smoke. There's a sharp sound, something unidentifiable and otherworldly, and Oliver screams as the soul is torn from his blade and ripped from his essence. One.

Mariius grits his teeth. "...."
Mariius ' eyes fall on Salarous quietly. A soft nod.

Macglynn shifts on his knees a little, getting comfortable. His head is low. He is so ready.

Salarous - A crystal forms in his free hand- pale purple in hue, and alive with energy. It's tucked into his pack- his palm reaches again, and the spill repeats. A little stronger- a little more knowing, it moves forward this time with a better idea of how to see it done.

Senkha instinctually buries her face in Marius' side at the sound Oliver makes, gritting her teeth. She gives a small whimper, determined to be strong...but not that strong.

Macglynn is on fire. That's what he feels, and that's what he knows as each soul is torn from his blade. There are a few that have been spent and are beyond saving. With each soul, the process grows easier on him, though never painless.

Salarous - It's something Salarous executes with disturbing ease, though his features are masked his eyes show little of mercy or remorse for his actions: A stony wall of absolute indifference. In truth- he almost keeps going, beyond the point which he should- it becomes -too- easy, and the reward of power is invigorating. The last soul hits his palm- his extended hands fingertips twitch just a little, shadows flare towards oliver- then there's a soft breath, and the power dies down.
Salarous allows his arm to return back to his side, his expression showing nothing.

Mariius lets out a breath he hadn't know he'd been holding. His grip on Senkha is strong-- and careful.

Senkha's fingers have dug into Marius' robe; with every scream of Oliver's, she lets out a growl of pain. By the time it's done, she's barely standing on her own, brow and face drenched with sweat, hands and legs shaking.

Mariius drops a bit; Eases Senkha down, that she might sit.

Senkha does sit, though she's still trying to cling to Marius and bury her face in his robe. She looks nauseated.

Macglynn stares at the carpet with an equal display of emotion: that is to say, none. His hands are glued to his blade, his eyes are wide, and the runes have calmed to their typical glow.

Mariius says: --Salarous. *Gingerly.*

Salarous says: ...Are you alright, Oliver?
Salarous peers over at him.

Mariius parts his lips.

Macglynn whispers: *I need to kill.*
Macglynn stands and without waiting, takes his blade and runs without a word.

Salarous - Parts his lips. Takes after him.

Senkha speaks mechanically. "He needs to kill."

Salarous draws to a stop.
Salarous says: ...Mn.

Senkha says: There are murlocs down by the river. He kills them.

Salarous holds to the banister a moment, frowning quietly after him.
Salarous says: ....Very well.

Mariius lofts a hand towards Salarous.
Mariius upturns his palm.

To Macglynn: *she gingerly reaches out for him...not to do anything but to let him know that she's there and she's not leaving*

Salarous takes his hand quietly and moves over beside him.

Mariius tugs him close, winding one arm around his middle. He bows his forehead against Salarous' own.
Mariius says: -Good work.

Senkha hasn't yet stopped clinging to Marius' legs, though when Salarous approaches, she lets go and tries to assume a more ladylike pose. She looks like she just gave birth or something, what the heck.

Salarous smiles faintly, eyes lidded. "...Some of the souls are spent beyond proper repair- ...but. A majority of them are still 'healthy.'"

Mariius grunts faintly, nodding his understanding.

Macglynn whispers: *Oliver is in a frenzy. Please leave a message after the tone.*

Mariius : -And parts his lips for a soft, if brief kiss.
Mariius says: I'll stay here. Keep an eye on things.

Senkha says: Nnn...
Senkha pushes back from Marius and tries to stand. She manages, with some effort, and staggers for the door.

Mariius says: Senkha--
Mariius says: Be careful. Give him some time.

Salarous offers him the kiss- then settles to watch Senkha. It was likely he would remain as well.

Senkha nods, putting a hand on the doorjam. Whether she actually heard is a different question entirely.

Macglynn returns some time later, his blade dragging in the dirt behind him. When he sees her in the doorway, he drops the blade, and runs up. He hugs her.

Senkha leans against Oliver, her arms coming around his waist. She doesn't say a word, but from the way she's clinging to him, the meaning is clear enough.

Senkha, Ludo, Ziichi & Faronne: October 24

Senkha makes her way towards the house bearing a mug of hot tea and two small cups. She stares at the door and looks around, half-expecting to see Marius somewhere nearby. When she doesn't, she walks forward to knock.

Ziichi wrinkles her nose at this. "Mar ain' jus' m'friend... tha's... he's like..." She just sighs. "Sure."

Senkha says: --Light, I hope this is the right place.

Ludovick pats her hair, running his fingers through it. "That is all I wanted to-" He breaks off, staring at the door. What. Now.
Ludovick slowly begins to push Ziichi away from him, holding a finger to his lips as he slides off the bed.

Ziichi slides over and out of his way. "Maybe Mar fergot t'give y'somethin' t'take?" She quiets after this, however..

Senkha knocks again, lightly, trying to balance the thermos and cups in one arm. "Ludo? It's Senkha," she calls out, a note of uncertainty in her voice.

Ludovick looks back to her, whispering. "If it is Lady Price, I want you to go to the balcony and climb down. Do not come back." And with that, he makes his way over to the door with a bit of a groggy limp, unlocking it and flinging it open. -
Ludovick, at the sound of Senkha's voice, and the sight of her, visibly softens, his expression still deadpan, but no longer tinged with anger or fear. He doesn't look all to well, but better after Marius has gotten a hold of him, his torso covered in bandages underneath his thin shirt. "Senkha," he says flatly.

Ziichi doesn't listen, as always, getting up and grabbing her sword. She approaches behind him, carrying it with her, then pauses and peers around his arm. "Senkha?"

Senkha smiles to see Ludo, not looking too wonderful herself. There are dark circles under her eyes, as if she hasn't slept in a couple of days, and on her cheek and abdomen are two new scars...though these scars are kind of silvery compared to the others for some reason. She blinks to see Ziichi. "Oh! I...is this a bad time? I brought...tea?"

Ludovick slowly turns his head to look at Ziichi, as if disappointed that she disobeyed him, but not all that surprised. He looks back at Senkha, shoulders slumping. "Everyone has felt themselves free to barge into my house today. You are no exception," he sighs, though steps back for her to enter.

Ziichi offers Senkha a wan smile. She, too, looks exhausted. The kid hasn't slept yet, and the night before included waking Ludovick up with nightmares, so she's been better. "Tha' means c'mon in, nice t'see yeh."

Senkha chuckles and makes her way through the door, settling her tea down on the nearby table. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to barge in or anything. Has it been an insane weekend for you lot too?" She doesn't bother to question why Ziichi is there because who is she to judge?

Ludovick follows Senkha over to the chairs with a limp, gesturing for her to sit. He grabs Ziichi's hand as he goes, attempting for force her, if gently, to lay down on the rug, pulling the blankets Marius had laid out earlier over her.

Ziichi glances up at Ludovick, then sighs and looks down at the rug. She grumbles, "Y'better be sittin' wi'me," before flopping down on her ass, accepting the blankets onto her lap.

Senkha looks at Ziichi and Ludo both on the rug and decides that sitting in a chair would be impolite. She takes a seat on the rug in a more ladylike manner than she usually would.

Ludovick deadpans, though he sits with Ziichi anyhow, letting out a grunt. Looking over at Senkha he inclines his head, staring at her. "How did you know where to find me?"

Senkha looks more than a little embarrassed, taking the thermos of tea from the table and smiling with relief that she brought four cups. "I, um. Followed Marius. He'd mentioned he wanted to speak with you last night and I felt horrible about missing our tea."

Ziichi gives Ludovick no chance at all. She moves over and settles herself behind him, wrapping her arms around his chest and then leaning her cheek against his shoulder. Apparently Senkha being there doesn't bother her at all when it comes to affection.

Ludovick gives Ziichi's face a quick nuzzle with his cheek before composing himself, looking across at Senkha with his usual blank expression. "I am sorry I missed it as well, Senkha. Things came up. Are you well?"

Senkha unscrews the top of the thermos of tea and pours three cups, distributing them with all of the proper Lordaeronian pinky-extensions she can. "Mm, I'm getting better. Things came up for me as well."

Ziichi doesn't move, still hugging Ludovick tightly. She rests her feet on the rug on either side of his legs, pretty much like a human sweater right now. She looks to Ludo and then at the tea, clearly expecting him to pass her some.

Ludovick takes his tea, and Ziichi's as well, handing it over to her as he sips his politely. "Thank you kindly," he says flatly, keeping the cup by his face. "I see neither of were destined to have peace, hrm?" He says so with the slightest hint of humor, face still completely blank.

Senkha allows a wry smile to come to her face, sipping at her tea. She reaches up a hand to touch the scar on her face self-consciously. "Unfortunately, I am beginning to believe that you are entirely correct. Admittedly, I'd hoped things were beginning to calm down recently, but...well." She sips her tea again, making the kind of face that indicates they haven't calmed down.

Ziichi sighs and then kisses the back of Ludovick's head, taking the tea. She sits back a bit to drink some, then sighs. "Needs more sugar. Do we gots sugar?"

Ludovick rolls his eyes back towards Ziichi. "Upstairs, lamb," he says flatly, rising to get it. He isn't letting Ziichi run errands in her sleepy state. Or, perhaps, he doesn't want her rummaging through his things. He continues to speak to Senkha as he attempts to get up. "You have my deepest sympathy, Senkha." He sounds like he means it.

Ziichi sits back and lets him go, looking rather regretful about this. "Sinka, why'd y'bring tea?"

Senkha give Ziichi a slanted grin. "It's sort of a -thing- in Lordaeron. Or...well. Was. Every afternoon at four, right Ludo?"

Ziichi peers up at Ludovic, fascinated with this. "Were y'guys rich growin' up or somethin', havin' all've these fancy things?" Her nerves from SUDDENLY MARIUS have her much better at the acting thing, now that she's more alert and not trying to stop POSSIBLE FITE.

Ludovick nods his head at this, making his way up the stairs and taking quite a strained effort to do so. "Quite right, Senkha. It is a shame some traditions have died."

Senkha actually wrinkles her nose at the thought of being rich. "My parents had quite a bit of money, yes. Ludo's father used to stay with us when he was in town, and my parents treated him a bit like royalty because he had money."

Ziichi stares at Senkha in amazement at this. "So y'really are a laydee."

Ludovick digs around through the stacked crates upstairs, still rather unpacked. He eventually finds his sugardish, which looks so neglected, having not even been used in probably ages, the sugar inside clumped together in a near brick.

Senkha speaks more into her cup than to Ziichi, her voice intentionally low to keep Ludo from hearing. "Don't let it get around."

Ziichi snorts and shakes her head. "Did y'take milk baths?"

Senkha says: Light, no.

Ludovick begins to hobble his way down the stairs with the sugar, a spoon sticking out of the bowl as his heavy boots thump against the stone steps.

Senkha amends, "...or at least I didn't. I've no idea what Selvie did."

Ziichi turns a bit and looks up at Ludovick, looking emotionless again as she relaxes in the house. She holds her hand out towards him, clearly hoping for the sugar.

Ludovick finishes his descent, leaning heavily on the banister before pushing off and handing the clumped, old sugar to Ziichi. "Apologies, lamb, but I fear I have never been one for sweets." He sits with as much dignity as possible back onto the rug, staring at Senkha. He reaches over and grabs his blood-encrusted robe from the floor, producing a cigarette from its pockets. "Do you mind such?" He asks, tilting his head down to the cigarette.

Senkha seems more startled by the robe than by the cigarettes. She shakes her head. "Of course not. I only smoke when I'm with my confessor, but I don't mind it."
Senkha says: ...are you a confessor as well?

Ziichi cocks her head to the side, regarding the sugar with utter confusion. After a moment, she puts it onto the ground, stands up, and then steps into it. Once she's crushed it, she scoops a great deal up and puts it into her cup. As an afterthought, she brushes the remainer under the rug, before resealing the container with what's left.

Senkha asks this with a slanted sort of grin that turns into a look of surprise when she sees Ziichi stomping on sugar like grapes. What.

Ludovick opens his mouth to reply to Senkha, then slowly turns his head upwards to stare at Ziichi. "Lamb...," he trails off, blank. "Just ask for me to help you next time, please." With a shudder, he turns his attention on Senkha. "And yes, I am."

Ziichi drinks some of her tea, scooting over on her butt to sit behind Ludovick again, cuddling up against him. Setting the mug down, she rests her head against his own and smiles, nodding.

Senkha sips at her tea again, her smile genuine despite the what-the-fuck going on around her. "I believe it. I think you'd make an excellent confessor...you're just peculiar enough to make it work."

Ludovick actually smiles at this. Hey, a compliment that isn't from a crazy woman shoving drugs down his throat. He cuddles back against Ziichi, lighting his cigarette up and taking a long drag from it before returning to his tea. "You flatter me."

Ziichi is pretty much just being a human sweater, draping her limbs around the priest and leaning on him. Clingy and possessive. Yay. Enjoy that, Ludo.

Senkha smirks, pouring a bit more tea into her cup and cooling it with a soft breath. "Less flattery, more honesty. How did you come to join the Church? The last I saw you was..." She exhales, her eyes widening. "...a long time ago."

Ludovick sets his tea aside, focusing on just smoking his cigarette now, resting it in between his lips as he rolls his shoulders with a wince. "A long story," he says flatly in response to her question. "I am blessed to have come into my work."
Ludovick pauses.
Ludovick corrects himself, looking back at Ziichi. "My joy," he says with a raised brow. Gotta make kids learn.

Ziichi sighs softly and relaxes, closing her eyes and curling up against him like this. Eventually her eyes close and she smiles a bit. "Y'calllin' me wha'?" Such a pain.

Senkha smiles at the two of them, not remarking on their snuggling. "I imagine it would be a joy to work in the Church. Unfortunately, my own past is checkered enough that it isn't an option for me, but I'm happy for you."

Ludovick deadpans at Ziichi, instead patting one of her hands around his middle. That'll do, pig. That'll do. -
Ludovick focuses on Senkha, smiling as well. "Thank you. Though, I must admit that my past is not washed in ivory. If you wish to help, I am sure I could pull some strings...?"

Senkha gives a wry smile and shakes her head, holding up her right hand to show her wedding ring. "I have an obligation to my family...they need me. And, well..." She flushes somewhat as she murmurs, "...-they- are my joy."

Ziichi quiets as she listens to them talk, intertwining her fingers with his own. She murmurs nonsense to him, her weight increasing against his back as she starts to drift off.

Ludovick exhales, blowing smoke away from the group. "I am glad to hear that you have found such joy," he says flatly. "I have my own," he says with a soft smile, eyes slowly turning to look at the sleepy Ziichi.

Senkha 's smile softens as she looks at the two of them. Once again, she can't really judge because she's married to a dead guy, hey. "She's lucky to have you," she remarks quietly, sipping her tea again.

Ludovick fidgets at this, his lips a thin line. Just to be polite, he nods his head a little, slowly wriggling from Ziichi's arms as he stands to snuff his cigarette out into a nearby ashtray. "I believe I will put her to bed. We may converse upstairs, if you wish."

Senkha nods, scooping up the thermos and cups as she stands. "That's fine. Will she be alright here?" She glances to the door nervously, not sure how warded the place is.

Ziichi doesn't seem that bothered, curling up once Ludovick settles her down.

Ludovick purses his lips at this, considering. "I believe she will be tired enough to not be awoken by our conversation. We will remain here. Please, have a seat," he says, gesturing to one of the chairs as he makes his way over to Ziichi, scooping her up in his arms. At the quake he grits his teeth, but does his very best to not drop her, hobbling over to the bed with a stiff limp, trying his very best to not use his left arm much.

Senkha takes a moment to get settled in the chair, largely because it's so huge. Why do Dwarves have such big chairs, anyway? She settles the tea and teacups on the table. "Do you need any assistance?" she asks, noticing Ludo's limp.

Ludovick shakes his head at this, going about his work as he lays the girl atop the bed, pulling the loose covers around her before placing a soft kiss to her forehead. Limping back to Senkha, he takes a seat, still staring over at the sleeping Ziichi. "She had a long day," he comments, as if this is enough.

Senkha nods her understanding and takes her cup of tea again, sipping it. Her shoulders sag some at the mention of long days. "Mm. Marius and Kyrita brought her to my house last night after the ball...apparently, there was a lot of excitement there and both she and my daughter were sound asleep by the time they came home."

Ludovick leans back in his chair, smoothening out one of his pant legs, which are a little bloody, but not near to the level of the robe near his feet. At the mention of the Hallow's End party, Ludovick frowns. "Yes, excitement," he says flatly. "I did not see you in attendance, though I was rather...busy," he stresses the last word.

Senkha shakes her head, smoothing down her robe and touching the scar on her face again, self-consciously. "Oliver and I were resting...both of us spent the better part of the weekend trying to destroy the man who kidnapped our daughter, and though he was temporarily neutralized, we both came away worse for the wear. He's still recovering." She brings her hand to cover the scars on her abdomen at this, strangely embarrassed about them for some reason.

Ludovick quirks a brow at this, taking his cup of tea from the table and sipping politely. "Your daughter? You have a daughter?" He asks, his voice showing a tinge of emotion as he looks over at her, not even commenting on the kidnapping until he is answered.

Senkha nods, smiling fondly. She keeps her hand over her abdomen still. "Dizzy. She was a war orphan in Stormwind...we adopted her a few weeks ago."

Ludovick smiles, albeit wobbily, remembering that Oliver, is, well, undead. "That is quite noble of you." He reaches a hand to scratch at the bandages underneath his clothing as subtly at he can. "Children are a joy, are they not?" -
Ludovick 's eyes drift over towards the bed with the sleeping Ziichi, who is probably snoring loudly.

Senkha follows Ludo's gaze and smiles fondly. "Ziichi's a sweet girl. Like I said, she's lucky to have someone like you. I can see that you're very close." And she leaves it at that.

Ludovick places a hand to his forehead, rubbing his temple. "I do not think your friend Marius is fond of her and I's situation," he says, speaking freely in a rare turn of events.

Senkha leans back in her chair some, chewing on her lower lip. "Marius sees Ziichi as a daughter...he worries for her. I don't know enough about your situation to comment about whether this worry is warranted, but rest assured that he only ever has her best interests in mind."

Ludovick huffs through his nose at this, grunting a little. "I am doing my best to keep the girl happy. I am not pleased with the company I have seen her in. It disgusts me."

Senkha frowns contemplatively, setting her teacup down and turning to face Ludo more directly. "What sorts of company? We know many of the same people; perhaps I can alleviate some of your fears."

Ludovick 's eyes drift over towards her, though he doesn't turn his head, still massaging his forehead in a tired manner. "Drunken draenei, self-pleasuring device toting riff raff, and not to mention just about every one of them swearing up a storm in front of the poor dear. How does anyone expect her to grow into a lovely young lady with these influences?"

Senkha sneers at the mention of the drunken draenei. "I don't suppose that draenei is the...-creature- named Kialthos, is he? He disgusts me. He -sent- my daughter into a -bar- to pick up his -drugs-."

Ludovick coughs at this, jerking his head to stare at Ziichi as if almost afraid she's got Zeal hidden in her boots. "I would love to end him," he says through grit teeth, grumbling a little to himself before settling down. "And yes, I believe that is the one I am speaking of."

Senkha looks more than a little disgusted. "He somehow was there when Dizzy was kidnapped...whenever he is around, she gets hurt. I don't like him in the least and would be very happy to throw him off of a dock with a pair of lead shoes."

Ludovick leans forward at this, his expression that of pure distaste. "I sometimes wish I was allowed to indulge in such hated," he says, a mix of humor and wistfulness in his voice.

There's a loud crack of arcane energy; teleportation. And then, an unceremonious thud of a body landing on the floor. Shit's going down upstairs!

Senkha smiles wryly, reaching across to give Ludo's wrist a squeeze...and frowns at the crack of energy. "...what was that?"

Ludovick jerks his head to stare at the ceiling, throwing a hand out towards Senkha. He doesn't know how capable she is, so he simply spits out a "Run!", clambering up the stairs with quite the effort.

Senkha says: --wha-
Senkha doesn't run, instead hitching up her skirt and grabbing for the dagger she keeps for just such an occasion. She steps back into the shadows.

There's a body on the floor. It's a heap of ghastly pale skin and a mane of black hair. She's got a sheet haphazardly wrapped around her, and otherwise, no clothing. Her left hand is still smashed, and she's got drawings all on her chest, and left arm. She's traced the blood vessels coming from her heart, extending down her arm with ink. Her right hand is completely stained with black from the ink.

Ludovick doesn't notice Senkha, hobbling as quickly as he can up the stairs until the body of Faronne comes into view. "Get out!" He bellows, already beginning to chant a prayer, hand outstretched towards her form on the floor.

Senkha presses her back against the wall, slowly creeping up the stairs. She remains silent as she takes in the scene, though she mouths 'what the fuck.'

Faronne groans, and turns over onto her back. Her bare, inked chest is showing, and her crippled leg is contorted at a painful angle. "..." She -stares- at Ludovick.

Ludovick throws a shield of Light over himself, releasing the spell with a flourish of his right arm. Unable to strike her now, or her him, he is content to scream at her, his voice nearly breaking from being so loud. "I will not be your pet!"

Senkha just sort of stares and then makes a funny squawking sound, coming out of the shadows, when she recognizes the body on the floor. "Ms. Price?!"

Faronne reaches the ink-covered hand over her face and begins sobbing near-uncontrollably. Nervous breakdown is now. "Didn't-- didn't WANT to-- d-don't have any--"

Ludovick balks at this, though is still quite wary, given Faronne's, er, history, He pushes the Light shield away with a wave of his hand, turning to Senkha, his expression tinged with fear. "Get Ziichi and leave. Now."

Senkha is stupid. "--she gave Oliver something that made him -alive- again," she says in a choked voice, not leaving.

Faronne chokes back another sob, and pushes her hair from her face. She gets a big black ink smear on her face, and her fingers tangled in her beyond messy hair. "I don't know why I'm here."

Ludovick snarls at Senkha, as if through with playing nice with 'idiots' for the day. He screams at her, livid. "You are to take Ziichi and leave, now!" With this, he turns, tearing the shirt from his torso, revealing the bandage around his upper left arm around his shoulder, along with the hideous scars on his back, which are now joined by four long, deep rivets of carved out flesh. He steps over to Faronne, as if disgusted by her, tossing the shirt to her with a sneer.

Senkha stares at Ludo's scarred up chest, startled by his screaming, but doesn't disobey any longer. She hurries down the stairs to gather Ziichi...but leaves the tea. TEA FOR LUDO AND FARO :D

Senkha & Marius: October 23

Mariius eases open the door with a careful word-- Something slipped to the newly established ward system.

Macglynn is unconscious! Amazing. When is he not? His chicken every so often plucks another bug from his exposed decay.

Mariius says: ... Mn. I don't see Senkha-- she's possibly upstairs with Oliver. Dizzy's room is here; we can set Ziichi there, I'm sure.

Senkha is sound asleep with a crossword puzzle resting on her chest. She is snoring lightly.

Kyrita buckles a little from the quake, stepping in. She moves to place the sleeping Ziichi as suggested, tucking the child into one of the far beds. The teenager is quickly draped over with a blanket, before pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. She stands, grinning to Marius. "Sure we can be in here?"

Mariius says: I told Senkha I'd bring Dizzy back safely-- and so. *He nods gently, setting Dizzy out on her bedspread as well.* I guess it was a lot of excitement.

Kyrita says: Something upset Ziichi. Couldn't figure out how.
Kyrita says: Wore my mask to cheer her up.
Kyrita says: ... Look.
Kyrita says: Help me.
Kyrita says: Trying to.
Kyrita says: Lick my eye.

Mariius says: ... What.
Mariius says: -I-- Oiy.

Kyrita thinks this is the best clipped-through-hair ever.

Senkha stirs slightly at the sound of voices downstairs. She pushes herself into a seated position, rubbing her eyes and yawning, and looks down at Oliver. Gives a sigh and then slips out of bed, pantsless and groggy to stumble down the stairs.
Senkha says: Nn. Someone here?

Kyrita says: -- Hi.

Mariius says: I and Kyrita, Senkha. Ziichi and Dizzy are here; they're both asleep.

Senkha stares at Kyrita, bleary-eyed, then at Marius. She's not quite awake yet. "Lot of exciteme-hent?" she asks, yawning mid-sentence. That Kyrita has a giant Gnome face doesn't phase her after this weekend.

Kyrita 's hand comes to lift the mask upwards, revealing her grinning visage. "Hi Senkha. Okay if I left Ziichi in a bed?"

Mariius says: -They both had a good time. Ziichi seems ... upset, though. I'm not sure why.
Mariius says: I just have a feeling that it has to do with Ludovick.

Kyrita says: Think it was because of Ludo.
Kyrita says: -- Yah.

Mariius says: ... Who I need to -talk to-.

Kyrita says: Asking about him.

Senkha tilts her head one way and the other, blinking when Ludovick is mentioned. "Ludo? He and I go wa-ha-hay ba-ack." Another huge yawn. She glances at the ceiling uncertainly, as if trying to will Oliver awake.

Mariius says: ... Do you suppose you could grant me an audience with him?
Mariius says: I want to know how close he is or is not to ziichi.

Kyrita says: -- Platonic lovers.

Senkha says: I could try. He and I are supposed to have tea sometime soon, and you could 'show up.'

Mariius says: ... That's an oxymoron.

Kyrita says: Well. Not lovers.
Kyrita says: She loves him though.
Kyrita says: -- And knowing her.

Mariius says: ...

Kyrita says: Love is a bit much.

Mariius lets out a long, drawn-out sigh.
Mariius says: Great.

Senkha gives a sleepy, wry smile. "Oliver and I have to be Platonic because I'd die." She is so out of it guys.

Kyrita says: Kek.

Mariius says: .. Yes, well. Brainsex. There you go.

Senkha says: Brainsex. We had real sex last night. He was ali-hive.
Senkha yawns again and smiles with half-lidded eyes. She might still be sleeping. Hard to tell.

Mariius rubs at his features.
Mariius says: ... How is he, anyway.
Mariius says: Mind that I check his vitals? ... So to speak.

Senkha 's eyes open wider, which is not that hard, all things considered. "Sure! I'd like that a lo-hot. C'mon upstairs, he's sleeping, has been since he died last night."
Senkha beckons for the merry party to follow her upstairs.

Kyrita says: -- I'll stay down here.

Senkha sits on the edge of the bed, patting Oliver's hands. She also tries to soothe the chicken nesting by his head.

Macglynn looks actually rather peaceful, and about as healthy as a rotten, sunken-cheeked, pale, old person can be.

Mariius frowns softly as he approaches Oliver's bedside. Two fingertips press gently against the side of his next. he's not looking for a pulse-- he's taking a sort of 'imprint' of his general state; Determining the basic heartbeat of his undead energy.
Mariius says: ... Mn.
Mariius says: I hope he'll be alright when he wakes. Everything 'seems' normal.

Macglynn's blade feeds a steady flow of energy to him, it's all just a matter of when it's finished. Marius may notice some sort of disturbance from Faronne's drug?

Mariius says: As normal as undeath can be, I suppose.

Senkha is beginning to wake up a bit more and nods slowly. "He's got his tongue and eyes back...and his left ring finger." This last one seems to bother her slightly, but she doesn't state why.

Mariius peers at her quietly.

Senkha says: ...the feeling I put back in his right hand is gone, though. I won't put it back.

Mariius says: You realize something, Senkha.

Senkha says: Hm?

Mariius says: I don't know what kind of sorcery was implemented that was actually capable of granting him life--
Mariius says: But that it could. That it could be real, and note an illusion--
Mariius says: That he's returned somewhat -restored-, if even -dead-...
Mariius says: -That's a breakthrough. That's nothing short of a miracle.
Mariius says: It defies everything we know about the plague and how it works.

Senkha clenches her teeth and looks down at her sleeping husband. "I know. That's why I don't trust it. It seems too good to be true...if not for that, I'd be chasing Ms. Price down to find a way to get enough for him for all time."
Senkha says: ...well, that and it made him...well. -High-.

Mariius says: ... It still begs the question; How was it done at all. And can it lead to a cure for the -plague-.
Mariius looks at her in all seriousness.

Senkha speaks slowly and hesitantly. "...do you think I should try to get some more? Not for Oliver, but to study?"

Mariius says: .. Yes.
Mariius wets his lips.
Mariius says: -Because I have never.
Mariius says: Ever.
Mariius says: Encountered anything capable of what this... potion has done.

Senkha nods slowly, chewing on her lower lip. "That's what terrifies me. Whatever can do this must be incredibly powerful...and if it is, if it's a real cure, then it begs the question of why whoever created it isn't mass-producing it and fixing...well."
Senkha says: Everyone.

Mariius says: Or at least offering it up for research.

Senkha says: Exactly.

Mariius says: I don't know. This 'Miss Price' sounds like a strange character.

Senkha says: I met her the day I was reacquainted with Ludo...she was helping to save Ziichi from an attacker.

Mariius narrows his eyes. You can see that something sits poorly with him.

Senkha says: What is it?

Mariius says: ... I've heard of three-degrees of seperation. But this is ridiculous.
Mariius moves 'round the bedside, reaching to fold his arms around Senkha's shoulders.
Mariius says: Don't worry. It'll be alright.

Senkha says: Marius, I'm afraid. I'm afraid of what sorts of side effects that drug will have...I don't want to lose my husband.
Senkha leans against Marius weakly, clearly exhausted. She closes her eyes and gives a soft sigh, once again seeming far too old for her age.

Mariius says: ... I will not let you lose your husband.

Senkha doesn't open her eyes. She just leans against Marius, relieved at having someone to hold her instead of being the one holding things together..
Senkha sighs. "This weekend's kind of been...like that." She shifts to the side stiffly, touching a hand to the wounds on her face and her bandages.

Mariius says: -You're still healing yourself, Senkha. *-And he eases his palms against her shoulders, scowling quietly.

Senkha suddenly looks more than a little sheepish, ducking her head. "I was too tired to close them all the way. I had the bites cleansed this morning, just in case."

Mariius says: ... Honestly, Senkha-- I'm worried about healing you again. Your body will grow over-accustomed to my touch at this rate, and yet I dislike the option of letting this mend-over naturally due to the rather... unfortunate reality of your dangerous situation
Mariius says: That said. You need to come with me to Kalimdor.
Mariius says: -Because at this point? You need the touch of a moonwell's graced waters.

Senkha blinks at Marius. "Right now?"

Mariius says: When prudent. I can understand if you'd rather not leave his side at the moment.

Senkha says: When he wakes, and if I can move him...Light, you don't think a Moonwell would help him, do you?

Mariius says: They're sacred waters, Senkha. An undead won't be welcomed.

Senkha says: --oh.
Senkha looks back at Oliver with a torn expression. She touches her right cheek again, feeling the nasty tears in flesh. She sighs weakly.

Mariius says: I know it's not a... desirable notion, right now. But I feel the waters would do you well. They can cleanse and better your wounds; help them sew up quickly. put some strength back in your limbs.

To Macglynn: *"Can you hear me? Please tell me you can hear me."*

Macglynn whispers: *"Oh, hi."*

Senkha suddenly smiles, relief washing over her features.

To Macglynn: *"Thank the Light. Love...can you hear anything that we're talking about?"*

Macglynn whispers: *His voice seems very far away, like he's not putting much energy into this. "Not been payin' attention."*

To Macglynn: *"Marius wants to take me to Kalimdor to heal my wounds. I...don't want to leave you, but..."*

Macglynn whispers: *"Go. May not act like it all th' tahm, but Ah'm grown up. Where will Dizzy be?"*

To Macglynn: *"She's downstairs, safe. Marius runed the house, so you're protected. Kyrita is here."*

Senkha opens her eyes and looks to Marius. "He wants me to go."

Mariius nods quietly.
Mariius says: -When?

Senkha says: When do you think would be best?
Senkha says: ...he just wanted to make sure Dizzy is safe.

Mariius says: This house-- and your sleeping daughter-- are currently blessed by the presence of the same catagory wards that I use to protect my -children-. The vial remains here: The presence is strong and the construct is set.
Mariius says: Right now. They're as safe as they're going to get-- even from these quakes, of the moment.

Senkha nods slowly and rises from the bed with some stiffness. She reaches for her discarded leggings and boots and tugs them on, not even pausing to consider how this all looks. "...then I suppose now is good."

Mariius nods quietly.

Senkha leans down and presses her lips to Oliver's. "I'll be back soon."

[They travel to Auberdine]

Mariius smiles gently.
Mariius says: .. I had to ask a favor of the sentinels. But they've agreed to allow this. It.. --Does occur to me, all the same, that you may not want we do this in such an otherwise open place. I can take you to another if you'd rather; Kaldorei don't share some of the same stipulations as men."

Senkha puts her hands on the moonwell's stones and peers at the water. "I...suppose here mightn't be bad. Unless you think somewhere else would be better."

Mariius says: You'll be the one devoid of your armor, Senkha. It's why I ask; I've no want to trouble your modesty.

Senkha looks around at the sentinels and, eventually, shrugs again. "I think here is fine. Traveling..." She leans more heavily on the stones, pressing a hand to her side. "...took a lot out of me."

Mariius says: Just as well, Senkha. This is the deeper part of the pool, here. *-And he holds a large white cloth to her inspection. It's too thin to be a towel; something for her modesty, perhaps.* --Strip yourself of armor, and you may use this to cover yourself.
Mariius says: -Ease in. It'll be warm, dove; The waters here always are when you need them to be.

Senkha takes the cloth and swallows hard before undressing, quickly. She takes more time removing her bandages, wincing as the cloth pulls away from her wounds, then wraps the cloth about her. She turns and tries to find a good place to ease herself into the water.
Senkha says: --just climb in? Like a bath?

Mariius remains at the edge of the pool with his eyes adverted. A wry smile paints his lips at her amusing question.
Mariius says: It's sacred water, Senkha; But still water, all the same. Go ahead. I'll turn back when you're submerged a bit and help you clean your wounds out.

Senkha exhales slowly. "Right." She steps into the water, as if expecting it to be cold, and is surprised to find it just the opposite. Still, she takes a few minutes to find her way to the deeper part of the well and, removing the thin cloth, sink down until the water comes up to her chin.
Senkha says: --alright.

Mariius : -The water's of a moonwell-- any pure well-- are drawn to purify the unmade. It's -soft- more than wet; Warm more than dense. The powers here are very old and every-helpful.
Mariius pulls his boots, setting them on the lip of the well proper. His robes are clean and so he doesn't mind them; Just slips into the water and focuses a healer's sight on Senkha's back. Ginger fingertips touch here and there, and if it's intimate-- It's only a mender's touch, just the same. He 's procured a half-shell; Something he can used to douse her still-healing injuries proper. Ugh, Elune-bless; She has bits of soiled bandages ground into the worst of them.
Mariius kneels down.

Senkha closes her eyes, grimacing as Marius begins to clean out the wound on her back. That one's the worst, long and deep and across the small of her back, where Bordros' axe caught her. Another deep wound travels from just below her heart to her lower righthand side. And then there are the bite marks--a graze on the back of her head and a tear on her right cheek. Her neck is also burned raw.

Mariius treats each wound with a tenderness reserved for his family and his patients. He carefully splits the flesh of sealing lacerations-- Makes a point of letting the water cresh through each exposed gash. It steals the pain from her; drinks it in. Destroys it. And then again and again, the half-shell smooths clean water around her neckline, where painful-looking abrasions are brought relief and due health. Gingerly, his fingertips knit through tense musculature; He knows the human body well enough to loosen it up and work it out with a strange, removed understanding of the dense, fiberous tissue.
Mariius says: ... You took a beating.

Senkha, without realizing it, has begun to weep as Marius cleans her wounds. It's a cleansing sort of weeping, not from pain or anything similar, but just an emptying. "H-he made me cry blood," she confesses, almost childishly.

Mariius lids his eyes quietly.
Mariius says: ... No pain can last forever, Senkha. You needn't cry, thought I know it sometimes-- ... That it sometimes helps to be capable of it.

Senkha swallows hard, trying to gain control of herself, but it's near impossible. She sags in Marius' arms, her limbs trembling, eyes lidding. "...and even after that f-fight...still, he'll come back..." She winces again at the pain of her wounds being cleaned.

Mariius kneads gently beneath the water. He feels along the forming scar-tissue beneath his hands, stroking a thumb along the crest of it; The bizarre knowledge that it's smoothing out under the literal inspection of his touch.
Mariius says: -The things worth doing are rarely easy, Senkha. You stand and fight, and you progress. We're learning. He'll meet his end one way or another; Eventually they run out of tricks. Or glass mirrors to break.

Senkha inhales sharply at this sensation, her breath hitching, and again exhales. She swallows hard again and lifts a hand to wipe the tears from her cheeks, nodding. "Oliver said he would help me practice what I learned in your book, so we both can get better."

Mariius nods gently.

Senkha 's voice is growing faint, less from weakness and more from relaxation, the way one's voice relaxes during a really good massage.

If he's anything, he's good with his hands. Surgery makes that a necessity. A sentinel nearby casts them a watchful look as Marius wets her hair and combs it through, grooming the girl of grit and dried blood. He preens over her scalp and he dips his head gently over one shoulder. "--Are the wounds better? They're looking it."

Senkha touches her hands to the wounds on her back and side, inspecting herself. Her hands aren't as practiced, but she can tell when something's doing better, and she nods. "They feel it. That's...kind of amazing, really..."
Senkha says: I've never even had the Light work so well.

Mariius nods to himself. "--I've a dry shif for you, if you're ready to get out."

Senkha nods slightly, her hands subconsciously coming to cover herself.

Mariius reaches to the bank, pulling a second cloth from beside both pack and boots. He ruffles it up, holding the fabric open. Golden eyes slip closed; It's simple respect.

Senkha rises slowly, taking the shiff and wrapping it around her in a fluid motion. She tucks the end of the cloth in and moves toward the edge of the well.

Mariius : -The subtle internal glow of his eyes ignites -after- he hears her soles hit the stone around them. He lofts himself out of the water-- wrings the hem of his robe-- and fits his boots back on either foot with a bemused grunt.
Mariius says: Feel free to your armor.
Mariius says: -I'd like that you dress into something lighter when you get home; your skin needs to breathe.

Senkha reaches down and dresses as quickly as possible, glad she's only wearing a shirt, leggings and boots. She runs her hand through her hair and turns back to Marius. "Alright. Would, um. Would my training robes do? The ones I got to practice Viramata things?"

Mariius says: That's fine, Senkha.
Mariius taps his com. "...."

Senkha looks down at her ring and sighs softly. She doesn't say anything into it; it's not her place. "I'm going to head home now then. Marius...thank you."

Mariius says: You needn't thank me, Senkha. Take care of yourself.
Mariius says: I'll see if I can't look into what's going on.

Senkha once again wraps her arms around Marius' middle. It's clear that her gratitude is for more than just a nice bath.

Mariius smiles down at her, ruffling the girl's still-damp hair. "
Mariius says: Go ahead, Senkha. I'll probably grab a bite to eat and berate Arubrey. *wry*

Senkha looks up at Marius with a soft smile and blows him a kiss, more daughterly than anything. "I'll get back to you with that sample. And...yeah. He'd probably enjoy that."

Mariius inclines his head.

Senkha touches her hand to her heart, bowing slightly.