Topic: Into Wonderland

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-10-12 09:45 EST

And So It Begins

Of all the seasons, Tabitha St. Germain loved fall the most. So, she decided to take a personal day and spend the time outside - there was a delightful park a short drive from her modest suburban home. Tabitha parked her car and stepped out into the cool autumn air, smiling as the breeze ruffled through her long black hair. A quick glance showed she was the only visitor to this corner of the park - it was a huge place, with picnic pavilions, riding stables, and even a local historical society - so she left her wallet in her car. She tucked her keys into her belt as she walked down a little ways to the bank of the well-named Rocky River.

Settling on a large rock that jutted into the river, Tabitha enjoyed the view. The leaves were just turning to orange, yellow, and even a pinkish red. Sparkles of sunlight danced on the surface of the river. Birds and the occasional squirrel flitted and darted on the opposite bank. She rested her chin on her knees, deep in thought. At 26,Tabitha was independent - she owned her home, making enough money at her office job to pay all her bills and still have money left to afford small luxuries like the K-Swiss shoes she wore today. They matched well with her stylish low rise jeans, wide brown leather belt, and her favorite fitted sweater - a rich burgundy color that highlighted the blackness of her hair and the fairness of her skin.

Tabitha sighed as the breeze stirred her hair again, tucking a stray wave behind her ear as she looked across the river. Lately, she had been feeling restless, discontent - bored with her seemingly perfect life. Perhaps it was because she had no family to speak of. Her parents had passed away within a year of one another when she was in her late teens, she was an only child, and her grandmother - the last family she had - passed a year ago. Tabitha missed her dearly, for even as a little girl, her grandmother understood her the best. They had the same jet-black eyes, which her grandmother said meant they were both "Fae-touched", but she had died before explaining what that meant. As for relationships, Tabitha was utterly convinced she was born in the wrong time. Listening to the other office girls gossip about their latest bedroom antics made her ill - for she wasn't into casual affairs. The other girls often tried to fix her up with that perfect someone - and once the slimeball guys got the hint she wasn't there for a one or two-night fling, they quickly disappeared from her life. She spent most nights home reading - preferring fantasy and science fiction works.

?There must be something better out there,? Tabitha muttered to herself as she stood on the rock and climbed down to the bank. As she turned to walk back up to her car, she spotted something odd out of the corner of her eye. There, twisting away from the lot ? was a little path. ?That?s new ? I haven?t seen that trail before,? she thought as she headed over to check it out. The new path seemed short, leading off to a little clearing not far away. The sunlight filtered through the trees, dappling the fresh earth, and the breeze blew invitingly. ?I guess I have time for a little walk ? just to the clearing and back,? she said aloud as she set off down the path, quickly losing site of the parking lot as she went deeper into the forest. Then ? a trick of the light, perhaps ? a rippling wave like a mirage shimmered across the path, and it disappeared altogether.

When Tabitha failed to show up for work the next day, her co-workers called the police ? she never missed work without a phone call. The investigators found her house untouched ? all her clothes were in the closets, the coffee pot still had the morning?s brew in it, and her purse sat on the dining room table. Her car was found in the Metropark parking lot by the afternoon, locked, with her wallet tucked under the passenger seat. A quick search of the woods turned up her keys, partially hidden under some leaves. No signs of foul play, no note ? Tabitha St. Germain had literally vanished.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-10-20 13:10 EST

Down the Rabbit Hole

Tabitha followed the new path, stepping over tree roots, weaving through the unexpected brush - her keys slipped from her belt and fell to the ground after she pushed her way through a particularly thick patch of undergrowth that seemed to appear from nowhere. She bent down to pick them up, only to watch them vanish just as her fingertips brushed the metal. She froze for a moment, then slowly stood up, looking all around her. In an instant, she realized the trees were different. Gone were the sweeping maples, birches, and fir trees of the Metroparks. Huge, towering oaks, ancient willows, and massive conifers she did not recognize surrounded her on all sides - the path she had followed was nowhere in sight.

Tabitha looked high and low for anything familiar - the stables, the little covered bridge, the freeway overpass that spanned the ravine, and quickly realized she was lost. After wandering about for what seemed like forever, she paused beneath the biggest oak tree she had ever seenn, resting her head against the mighty trunk, stubbornly determined not to panic. "Well - this isn't the park. So where in the heck am I?"

She glanced around again, her black eyes looking now for any sign of civilization. Her keen hearing soon caught the faint sounds of a town, so she followed the noises until she emerged from the woods and onto a cobbled road. Horse-drawn carriages rattled over the stones, vendors could be heard hawking their wares, and she saw people milling about that she thought only existed in fantasy novels. The buildings were much older, reminding her in some ways of a trip to Europe she took while in college. One larger building caught her attention - "Red Dragon Inn" was on the sign hanging over the door. "OK - in my books, when people are new in a town. they stop at the local Inn." With this thought in mind, she walked up the steps, pushed open the door, and went inside. Maybe someone here could tell her exactly where she was.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-11-08 23:40 EST

Into Wonderland - Day One

As the door to the Inn shut behind her, Tabitha was instantly aware this wasn?t like home at all. The first thing she saw was a dragon ? an honest-to-goodness black dragon ? whipping a fork towards a dartboard with its tail. A quick glance around showed a few others in the establishment, including a girl with green hair and pointed ears - she looked like an elf straight out her books. As she walked towards the huge oaken bar, she heard someone call out a greeting, and she turned to see a guy who seemed, well ? normal, at least to her. When Tabitha asked where she was, he said she was in the State of Confusion ? and she felt like it. Another guy over by a nice sized fireplace told her she was in RhyDin. That seemed impossible, she had just gone for a little walk in the Metroparks after all, so how could she be somewhere else? The first guy very kindly offered her a drink, saying she might get a headache from his explanation.

Tabitha wanted coffee, so he brewed her a fresh pot, introducing himself as he did so ? he was Toby, the green haired girl was Lydia, and the guy by the hearth was Grem (a regular chatterbox Toby said). Then, Toby welcomed her to Wonderland, and she certainly did feel an awful lot like Alice. Toby and Grem explained the Nexus to her ? how it snagged people from many different places and dropped them near the Inn. Grem said he was from New York, and that made Tabitha feel a little better ? at least she wasn?t the only one from the States here. She gave Toby a grateful smile as he brought her a mug full of coffee (that was one constant at least, she could still have her coffee). Grem mentioned that the Red Dragon Inn made the Star Wars cantina look like the watering hole of a small town in the middle of no where. Tabitha could tell that from the get-go, and as the reality of what happened began to set in ? so she asked Toby if the bar stocked Bailey?s.

Adding a generous splash of the Irish Cr?me to her coffee, Tabitha listened carefully as Toby explained more about the Nexus ? how it grabbed people from the Inn and tossed them about like a cat with toys, even landing some folks in the nearby lake. Lydia mentioned certain areas of town best to avoid for safety reasons, and Toby and Grem both said to avoid the water at all cost. The black dragon mentioned a sinister-sounding ?stew? as well.

Tabitha was most surprised that figures from her favorite books ? elves and dragons ? were living, breathing real creatures in RhyDin. The black dragon introduced herself as Storm, and said she was Icer?s sister. Toby told her that Icer was a very friendly sort of dragon. As Toby, Lydia, and Tabitha continued talking, Lydia offered Tabitha a knife, just in case one of the rough sorts Toby mentioned tried to start trouble with her. Toby said that a lady named Issy would be a good person to ask about learning how to use the blade properly, and Tabitha committed that fact to memory ? along with everything else she was told about this strange new place. Then ? Tabitha had her first experience with the cat-like ways of the Nexus, and wound up dropped on her backside right in front of Toby.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-11-16 21:19 EST

Into Wonderland - Day One Continued

Toby offered Tabitha a hand up after the Nexus dropped her on her backside, and she took it gratefully, inadvertantly grazing his palm with her fingers as she stood up. After clearing a frog from his throat, Toby and Lydia discussed the idea of a room at the Inn where new arrivals could stay until they got on their feet. The idea sounded really good to Tabitha, for though she wasn't hurting for money back home, her wallet was in her car, and her purse was sitting on her dining room table - both out of reach.

Tabitha watched as Lydia tore through her bag, scattering things all over the bar, finally counting out copper and silver coins that reminded her of pictures of ancient Greek coins she once saw. Toby added his own silver coins to Lydia's, and then he handed her a key to one of the rooms upstairs, covered for the next two weeks thanks to the generosity of her new friends.

After thanking both Toby and Lydia profusely, Tabitha suddenly felt very tired. The Irish coffee, and the shock of being in a whole new world setting in, made her want to lie down. So, she went upstairs to find her room - number 15 according to the key, and she unlocked the door, and stepped inside the modest, well-kept room. After locking the door behind her, Tabitha just collasped on the bed, laying on her back, staring up at the ceiling, thankful for the kindness of Toby and Lydia, and wondering what the evening would bring.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-11-18 17:14 EST

Into Wonderland - Evening One

Later that night, the increased volume from the common room filtered up into Tabitha's room, and roused her from her sleep, as her ears were very sensitive, and she slowly opened her eyes. At first, the unfamiliar room scared her, then as she fully awoke, she remembered what had happened earlier that day. She was now, as Toby put it, in Wonderland. She sat up and ran her fingers through her long black hair in an attempt to tame her unruly waves, and she slowly opened her door, peeked out, and decided to go on down into the Inn.

At first, the crowd of people made her want to turn right around and run back up the stairs, but then Tabitha spotted her new friend Lydia, and went to sit by her. They chatted for a while, then Lydia greeted a very pretty, petite lady with striking navy blue eyes, who was with a tall, handsome gentleman with long dark hair. They walked over, and Lydia introduced Tabitha to her friend Des, and briefly explained Tabitha's plight. When Tabitha asked the very nice royal couple if there was any secretarial work to be found, Des and Gavilean (or Gav to his friends, as he told her) said they could use one, and would she be interested in working for them. The chance to work for royalty just didn't come up back home (they were King and Queen of a neighboring kingdom called Westridge), and she jumped at the chance to use her vast skills to work for the sweetest couple she had ever met. Gav even joked that High Elves were not known for their typing skills, and when Tabitha's shock was evident at that fact, he gently explained he was half elf - that his mother was a High elven princess. All the stories Tabitha read seemed to be true here, and she was happy to find work so quickly with two more new friends.

After the fairytale King and Queen made arrangements with Tabitha as to when to start her new job, and where to go, they retired for the evening. Tabitha was so happy, and thanked Lydia again for everything she had done for her. She went back up to her room soon after, feeling less like a stranger, and more like she belonged in this Wonderland.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-11-19 01:41 EST

Wonderland - A Night of Nightmares

One night, perhaps a week after she arrived in RhyDin, Tabitha decided to brave the Inn at night. It was really crowded, so she took a seat as far from the thick of things as she could. Jade, an acquaintance of hers - someone else from the States - was behind the bar, so Tabitha ordered up a Black Russian (kaluha and vodka). Jade's mix was particularly strong, and soon Tabitha was feeling the effects of the potent liquors.

After a while, her friend Lydia came in with news. Their friend Toby had left that afternoon for an extended cargo run, with no timetable set for his return. Tabitha took the news hard. Toby was the first person who made her feel welcome when she wandered into the Inn, he had shown her around the Market, and he had even shown her Star's End, where she had found her new soft leather jacket. She felt safe in his company, and was very sad she didn't get a chance to say goodbye to him before he left. So, when her first drink was finished, she ordered up another one from Jade - extra strong, and extra large.

Tabitha drank as a bunch of young guys at the end of the bar tried flirting with her. They all keenly reminded her of the college frats boys her co-workers took delight in setting her up with all the time back home. One even went so far as to "moon" her - dropping his drawers for all the Inn to see - when she called them Frat Boys. She wasn't impressed, and she explained Frat Boys to Lydia and to Taneth as she drank more than her fair share. She would remember nothing else from the evening.

The next morning, Tabitha awoke in her room at the Inn with absolutely no idea how she got there. Her head pounded and throbbed from the excess of kaluha and vodka, and the headache only worsened when she tried to remember the night before. She managed to sit up, and found she was still fully dressed. Slowly making her way to the mirror in her room, she winced as she studied her reflection, as she looked awful. As she slowly worked her ebony-handled brush throufgh her long black waves (she had found the brush during the Market tour with Toby), Tabitha racked her brain for any hint of what happened after the Frat Boy mooned the Inn. The only memory she had was a vague sense of eyes, dark blue eyes without light or warmth, like cold sapphires.

Frowning, Tabitha splashed cool water on her face, straightened her clothes, and left her room. She left word for Des that she was not feeling well, and would return the next day to work. Then, she set off for the forest near the Inn, her hands deep in her jacket pockets, wondering what happened to her, and why she couldn't remember.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-12-01 22:30 EST

Meeting Her Cheshire Cat

The morning had dawned cool, and the breeze helped to soothe Tabitha's pounding head as she wandered through the woods near the Inn. She had overindulged the night before, she knew that, and this morning she was paying for it. The fact that she still could not remember a good chunk of the night troubled her deeply, and she felt like an idiot for allowing herself to get so drunk. Yet, in the back of her mind, Tabitha knew something was amiss. She leaned back against a huge oak tree, her hands in the pockets of her brown leather jacket, gazing at the rich fall colors all around her, racking her brain to try and piece together the events of the night before. Then - she heard rustling, footfalls through the fallen leaves.

Her right hand curled around the hilt of the knife Toby had slipped into her jacket pocket after their trip to Star's End. Tabitha's keen hearing could tell the footsteps belonged to someone on two legs, and she crouched down next to the oak tree, scanning the area for the source of the rustling, taking no chances. When she saw the figure slowly walking toward her, she relaxed, but only slightly. He was average in height, and non-imposing at first glance, clad in simple cloth breeches, boots, and a long traveling cloak, and he leaned upon a sturdy wooden staff. As he neared her tree, she was able to see him more clearly. He was older than she by a fair amount, with grey hair - not greying, but grey throughout, suiting the stranger. He reminded Tabitha of her favorite English teacher in high school, yet she knew appearances could be deceiving, so she stayed out of sight, watching the man approach.

He stopped maybe 10 feet from where she was hidden, almost as if he was also sensing the presence of a stranger in the woods. Then, Tabitha heard his voice, deep, stern, with the hint of a command whispering on the edges of her mind.

"Reveal yourself!"

Tabitha studied him a moment more. She could not sense any malice in him, though she bristled at the command. Finally, she decided to come out of hiding, and see just who she was dealing with.

Wanderer · Date: 2006-12-04 12:12 EST

( The first section of this post takes place some time before the events in the preceding post. The second section will bring him right up to where Tabitha left off, and my next post will pick up as they meet.)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fall. It was perhaps one of the less objectionable seasons Simon had dealt with, but still a reminder that the bitter cold of Rhydin's winter was coming. Bloody snow, he grumbled often to himself. It hardly seemed worth travelling out from his home at that point, not for what pathetic delights that seemed to be offered.

Days like this, grey with looming chill rains or sparkling with shivering winds, seemed much more suited to an afternoon perusing books in the library, or musing over the scattered patterns of leaves on his veranda. This day, though, Simon had little peace and worse yet, knew not why. Something was very much amiss, though he couldn't yet be sure if it was wrong.

Abandoning the Journal of Modern Thought for the umpteeth time, Simon rose from the very beat up yet favored old chair and began to pace the veranda. Leaves of all manner of colours whispered and skittered around the carefully-lined stones, skipping about his ankles and feet like disobedient and playful puppies. He walked with eyes half-closed, thinking and considering the source of the odd feeling.

Bah. This wasn't getting him anywhere. Something was obviously missing, but what? Tea?

Yes... tea. That would do. Simon turned on his heel, and soon enough the leaves were left to play amongst themselves.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And so perhaps tea wasn't the answer. The feeling of decided oddness would never wholly go away, though he noted that it both abated slightly after a while, and most of all over the night hours. Simon as a rule never slept a great deal, and he noted the waning of the feeling as night moved on, only to feel it rise again in the morn.

A day or two of this was enough to drive him fairly mad, he thought. But it had also made some things clear to him. It wasn't coming from within, but from without. Something out there, somewhere, was lost and uncertain, and for whatever reason Simon was receiving those perceptions clear and true.

Right, then - time to take a little walk and see. Rhydin Town would be the starting point, he thought. Most weirdness has its source there, and besides he hadn't walked in that land for some time. Maybe it had calmed down somewhat?

The door closed behind him on his sardonic smile. Some things were eternal, chief among them being that the Inn and its town would always be chaotic.

Wanderer · Date: 2006-12-05 10:33 EST

"Reveal yourself!"

Simon's voice rang out, into the night ahead of him. This little clearing was a waypoint of sorts to him, on the long road that led west to the town and the Inn. And in the shadows of a tree's overhang, he had perceived a figure, waiting. Perhaps the faintest impression of a weapon, too.

Simon's hand remained in a firm grasp upon his staff. It had been some time since anyone had honored him with a mugging attempt, he thought with some bemusement. Though it would not be today - what he felt ahead of him was not lurking menace, but cautious self-protection. He stood there, awaiting the figure's appearance.

A slender young woman was what he perceived, with a barely tamed waterfall of black waves crowning her head, and such strange clothing. Simon did not recognize the manner of her garb, but it was certainly not of any land near here. Yet not totally unfamiliar. Now why?

He thought a moment as she stepped forward, then it came to him. It was distantly similar to some of the strange apparel he'd seen on visitors to the Inn from that metal monstrosity far far out to the west, where the great metal ships landed. So, then, a newcomer. Simon considered her as she slowly walked toward him.

She was nervous, that much was clear. Not as nervous as she should be, though, he thought - was she from a much safer place? Perhaps she was not used to a land of danger such as this? But as he perceived deeper, he found more. A shadow over her mind, a familiar taint. Simon frowned only slightly as he considered this.

Regardless, he knew she was no threat. Moreso, she did not want to be. So then, he thought, let's find out a little more.

"You need not fear, traveller. There is no danger here."

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-12-06 21:24 EST

Tabitha came fully onto the path that led into the clearing, carefully studying the stranger before her. As she stepped a little closer, she could see his eyes, which were a remarkable shade of blue, pale and soft like a baby's blanket. As their eyes met, she knew almost at once that this man meant her no harm at all.

Over the years, Tabitha had discovered she could "see" through the fronts people put up. She could spot the lying snakes beneath the smooth talking salesmen, she had stopped her grandmother from signing papers that would have ruined her financially after meeting the person who wanted her money for a shady "investment", and she could see through the lines so many men threw out to try and win her to their beds. She did make mistakes at times, especially when she drank, for alcohol dulled her attentiveness to those subtle warning signs.

But, on this day now turning to night, as she gazed at the man who leaned upon his staff out of need, she could see he was a kind soul, an old soul, and her senses told her she would be safe in his company, and she could trust him. she offered him a little smile as she spoke, easing her hands from her jacket pockets, for the knife within would not be needed.

"I didn't mean to startle you. There's no danger on this end either. It's a quiet place here."

Wanderer · Date: 2006-12-11 16:06 EST

Simon looked a little surprised as the pretty young woman made herself seen. Not exactly what he had expected, when he'd used that tone of voice, and it was evident as such when he spoke. "I do beg your pardon, Lass. I thought perhaps ruffians were hiding in the trees again, to pad their pockets off a tired old traveller."

His stern voice gentled somewhat. "Do forgive me, if you will?"

Simon was not wholly off his guard, mind you. He'd walked Rhydin long enough to know the sharp lesson it will teach you - Rhydin was full of lovelies quite capable of mayhem, murder and worse. Yet, Simon could also see with more than his eyes, and there was none of that about the windblown creature peering back at him with dark eyes.

Her voice, too, was kind. "I'm not a ruffian - it's quiet here. The trees are huge. I didn't mean to startle you." She looked a little abashed now, and Simon allowed himself to relax a bit, finally.

"Nor I you. But you and I are are both right to be cautious, nothing is as it seems in this place. " He then peered intently at her "And so it would seem with you... your accent is strange to me. I don't recognize it... but you're not from Rhydin, I'll wager?"

Tabitha's face was not exactly sad, as she considered his question. More.. lost? Confused? "I'm not from here at all. I'm from a whole different place, and I don't think I can ever get home." She really didn't seem upset, and Simon commented as much. That made her look down, that odd expression coming back.

"...I don't know - I thought I was doing OK here, but last night.. I'm all confused. It's all a blur, and the bits I do remember..," she paused to shudder, "I don't want to know."

Simon raised an eyebrow. What he thought, he did not mention, but there was a new dimension to his gaze now. "It's my experience, young miss, that if your mind doesn't feel you'll do well by remembering something, then you won't."

He then took a few steps toward her, the limp not at all feigned. That walking staff was in his hands for a reason, after all.

"What's your name, little one?"

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-12-19 00:46 EST

Tabitha followed every movement the stranger made with her eyes as he approached her, making sure he stayed in front of her. She was still nervous, although the softening of his voice helped calm her, and she managed a small smile at last.

"I'm Tabitha St. Germain, and you are?"

He seemed to mull over her name. "Tabitha - Gazelle. An elegant name for an elegant young lady. You can call me Perrin, if you don't mind. It's not terribly fancy, but I'm fond of it." He returned her little smile.

Tabitha found herself opening up to Perrin, telling him she wasn't originally from Rhydin, explaining how she came to be here - even going so far as to mention her memory loss from the previous evening, because it still troubled her deeply. Soon, she found herself walking along the forest path with him, keeping to a slow pace so Perrin wouldn't have trouble keeping up - she was keenly aware he needed the staff to walk. As they wound their way towards the Inn, Perrin offered her kind advice, then, he asked:

"Tell me. What do your thoughts, and your heart, tell you about me?"

That question caught Tabitha rather off guard, but she looked up into his soft eyes, and answered with the simple truth:

"I see your heart is kind, and good, and I feel safe with you."

Perrin regarded Tabitha gently. "Be wary still, little one. Many feel fair, and are yet foul. They'll draw you to them with smiles and promises, and wait until you let them get close." He seemed genuinely concerned for her safety and well-being - almost protective in a way.

After walking a bit further, and more advice, Perrin asked Tabitha her thoughts of RhyDin, and when she compared RhyDin to her home, he asked her about it - his interest very plain. So, Tabitha described the great lake that defined her home, the tall buildings of steel and glass, the old stone structures that still stood, the ring of connected parks known as the Emerald Necklace, and how people spread out from the inner city to the suburbs. Perrin had a gruffness about him, especially concerning people - he didn't care much for most folks - but Tabitha could see the gentle man under all that bluster. As the subject turned to defense, she told Perrin of the knife Toby gave her when they visited Star's End, and how much she hated feeling weak and helpless, which was how she had been feeling all day.

As they continued walking and talking, Tabitha absently rubbed her neck. Her head had begun to hurt again, and as she mentioned as much to Perrin, she saw his expression shift to one of concern as she worked a kink out of her neck.

Wanderer · Date: 2006-12-20 13:13 EST

Simon didn't have to probe the young woman's mind much at all to see the classic signs of the assault. Blasted creatures, he thought, in how many aeons of existance, they've never managed or tried to find a way to exist that doesn't involve using victims. Part of their institutional arrogance, he thought. And thus it was their own stupid fault if they were despised and hunted.

Simon didn't speak to Tabitha about any of this. She wasn't clearly aware of it, but he recognized the trauma she'd suffered as a result of it. One thing was for certain, though, t'would not happen again. Dimly he found himself speaking again, out in the world beyond his thoughts.

"This is not the place to be vulnerable. Very bad things tend to happen, and.. ," he paused, concluding, "And you're not destined for such an end, I'd wager."

"Really?" She seemed a little surprised by that comment, but her smile was genuine. "Thanks - I'm starting to feel a little better."

"I normally don't like to get involved in such things, mind you," Simon added, "To be bluntly honest, I stopped involving myself in the goings-on of the greater world a while back. But.. it usually happens for a reason. For good or ill, good in this case I hope."

Tabitha ducked her head, the smile still present. "You've helped me a lot Perrin.. thank you."

Simon snorted, an almost comical sound from such an otherwise elegant visage. "Ahh, I'm good for a good deed every now and then." And indeed, Tabitha looked perilously close to giggling, before she changed the subject with a curious and concerned glance at his staff.

"May I ask what happened to your leg?"

In the moments before his answer, Simon was unwillingly drawn into that most unpleasant memory. The stifling, oppressive state of air filled with many magics, none of the pleasant kind; shouts, cries and screams, the background music of war; blinding flashes and endless pain. Again he was dimly aware of answering her, in a lighthearted tone utterly unbecoming of the reality.

"Of course you may. I had a run-in with one of those wizards when I was young and foolish, and I've been paying for it ever since." His answer, casual though it was given, gave her extreme pause as she realized that despite her own experiences of late, not all magic users were nice.

"There's all kinds in the world, Tabitha." For the first time, she began to be aware of a faint accent in his voice, though utterly unplaceable. "Good and bad, in your world the same as this. And after all, magic is just another tool." Simon gestured idly as he spoke. "Lots of folks with power and not a shred of discipline behind it. Children with death at their fingertips."

Tabitha was clearly dismayed by this visage of things, but she bravely brought up someone she'd been told about, a lady who wielded the power of ice, who used it primarily for making pretty displays of crystals and snow, to the delight of her friends and observers in the Inn.

Simon harrumphed at this. "Using magic power to make a spectacle?" The smile appeared, then. "I approve of that."

Tabitha's face broke into a smile at those words. "The way she was described to me, she does stuff for fun, not for power's sake."

"Approve of that too." Firm nod from him. "'Bout time folks started doing something constructive with it." Clearly, Simon had his own definition of 'constructive'! "It's a depressing thing to see magic abused so much, to the point where it's feared as in the days of witchcraft and whatnot."

He shook his head then. "Bah. Don't pay attention to me, little gazelle. The weight of years just tends to skew your outlook on things, that's all."

"You're not so old.." she blushed.

Simon chuckled. "Sure I am. I'm a mean old man."

"You're not mean either!" Tabitha laughed outright, stomping her foot to make her point, eliciting a further good-natured grumble from him.

"Oh, give me time."

The sun was beginning to dip now. They'd been walking for over an hour now, conversation meandering about like a drunken butterfly set loose.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2006-12-26 13:10 EST

Tabitha listened to everything Perrin said, committing each word to memory. The time had flown by since they had struck up this conversation, and now it was getting darker, and the few folks they saw suggested that night was falling. They were left alone to their talk, however. Perrin seemed so interested in not only Tabitha's home town, but her world in general, and she related stories as they finally reached the Inn.

The walk had done her a world of good, and she was finally feeling more like herself. Perrin could insist he was a grumpy old man all he liked, but Tabitha could plainly see the kindness and gentle care under all that bluster. She paused by the door, and gave him a pretty smile.

"I've really enjoyed spending this time with you, but I'm really tired now - I still don't feel 100%."

Perrin gave a solemn nod. "You need to sleep in tomorrow. And make sure you get enough to eat."

She assured him the Inn had good food, and she thanked him again, for he had helped her state of mind, perhaps more than he realized. Another smile, and she stepped through the doors to head back up to her room. Perrin bowed in farewell, all elegance and courtesy, and after Tabitha was safely in the Inn, he made his way down the steps and back up the road.

Wanderer · Date: 2007-01-02 14:59 EST

Hadn't he been going to that damnable inn for a drink? Crazy girl had turned that plan all inside out, Simon reflected with a harrumph, despite the genuine smile at the thought. There were really still sweet folk left in the world, then - sometimes he wondered.

That made him all the more irritated at the signs of the vampire's antics. Oh, he knew they had a right to survive, of course. But there were plenty of willing folk around, vacuous and giggling for the handsome nightstalkers. Leave the innocent alone, Simon grumbled as he walked.

These and other thoughts were interrupted by sounds up ahead, as he rounded the corner with that slow limping gait. At the side of the road, a young couple were facing off with a rough-looking pair, swords drawn as well as the young man's. His young lady (wife? Simon couldn't quite tell) was terrified, but had hold of a little dagger as well. It was fairly well evident what was going on here.

Simon almost turned and walked away. He'd spoken truth to Tabitha, it had been long years since he'd had any inclination to interfere in the affairs of the world. It simply wasn't his problem. But now there was a damnable stirring of conscience - Tabitha's doing, no doubt, he grumbled to himself. He knew that to be true when he looked at the terrified young woman and saw for a moment the black-maned little gazelle's face. Bah... nothing for it, then

On he came, slowly, and the young couple saw him first. Then the marauders turned off their reaction, and one started threateningly toward him, while the other kept at their victims. "'oi! You there, old man, what be ye up to? Jes' keep on walkin', if ye know what's good for ye."

"Nonsense," Simon growled, as he kept walking right past the astonished man, who was frankly stunned at the old man's foolishness, audacity, or plain stupidity. Simon did not pause till he was by the others, and was joined moments later by his accoster, who grabbed his arm and pointed the sword at him.

"Oi!," the man blustered, now angry to boot, from being made to look foolish, "You'll be wantin' to be a little more minding of yourself, y'old fool, else y'might lose a thing or to dearer than your coin purse." Simon's expression was no less serene than before, though with a touch of annoyance mixed in. This more than anything seemed to drive the two marauders up the wall.

"Young man," began the older man, "You are beginning to damage my calm. Be quiet, yes?"

The young marauder goggled at him. The old man must have a death wish. Simon then spoke with a touch of that stern voice Tabitha had heard before. "And put those damn swords *down*."

All four put their weapons down, as if in a daze. Simon nodded with a touch of satisfaction. "Much better." He'd never cared for blades. "Now then. This isn't the time or the times to be walking out in the night, sword or not. Mind you find yourself a carriage, young man, and keep your young lady safe."

The young man stammered something like an acquiesence, turning a bit red. Light blue eyes shifted next to the young lady. "And mind you be careful where you draw that, young miss." Simon gestured to her dagger, a bit more gently. "If you must hold such a thing, be sure you know how to use it, and moreover *when* to use it. Now, this is an unpleasant little situation. Probably best if you two don't think any more about it.

Simon stared briefly at them both, and their eyes glazed slightly as they nodded. "Good then. Off with ye." The young man sheathed his sword in a slight daze, and taking his young lady's arm, slowly walked her around the bend toward the Inn.

Simon slowly turned on the two young ruffians. They were still staring at him, their expressions a mixture of disbelief, mounting rage, and confusion. "As for you two."

"You'll be wanting to put your energies towards some more positive pursuits. You didn't draw blood or harm those two, so I'm not inclined to do the same." The first ruffian began to say something, his eyebrows drawn together, but fell silent inexplicably as Simon frowned.

"Don't test me, young man." He spoke softly, but there was no gentleness in his tone. "I don't think you two will remember much about this either, nor will you remember anything of me, save my warning."

His voice changed, sounding less as that of a man, as of thunder underground. "Mend thy ways. Lest thee be undone."

Simon's voice then returned to its usual congenial tones. "Now git!" He watched with a trace of satisfaction as the two young ruffians ran hotfoot through the trees as if the Devil himself were hot on their heels. Simon's blue eyes flickered, and resumed their usual brightness as he kept on his slow, limping walk back up the road.

Quiet walk in the woods. Bah.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-01-04 10:59 EST

A "Chance" Meeting with the Chesire Cat

It had been a week, maybe more, since Tabitha had overindulged at the Inn. She had returned to her work, appearing to be happy while organizing the massive amounts of paperwork generated by the Kingdon of Westridge. She had just finished a comparison of revenues generated over the past 2 years, and Des was very pleased with Tabitha's speed and efficiency. After receiving her pay for the week, Tabitha bid good day to Des with a little smile, for she truly enjoyed working for her, and left the Starfare's home to head back to the Inn, wnjoying the mid-morning sun. for she had finished up earlier than usual.

As she walked, Tabitha's mood shifted. She had been putting up a front for her emplyer and friend, showing ease and happiness she didn't feel. The only other time she had drunk so much as to black out, she had started remembering bits and pieces later. But, this time was different. No matter how hard she racked her brain, she wasn't able to recall anything after telling Lydia all about Frat boys, and this troubled her deeply. Somehow she ended up in her room at the end of the night - it was the how of it that bothered Tabitha so much.

After walking along the bustling streets of RhyDin for a while, Tabitha paused by a small shop that sold native crafts - the window had a display of hand-carved wooden animals in the window (including a gazelle, and a raven). She stood a moment by the window, huddling in her brown leather jacket as the brisk autumn breeze picked up, tossing her hair all about like a black waterfall. Her thoughts shifted then to the man she met the week before, remembering how kind he was to her, and how his words gave her comfort after her misadventure. She hadn't seen Perrin since, and she wondered for a brief moment if she would ever see him again. Her thoughts drifted off as she stood against the wall of the shop, gazing at the little raven in the window.

Wanderer · Date: 2007-01-22 12:19 EST

Simon had been there almost since daybreak. Whether he was there to seek her out, or for reasons of his own, who knew? But there he was, and there he found her.

Almost missed her too, the girl moved at quite a clip, he noted ruefully. A clip that his limp-damaged stride couldn't quite match, even with his best effort. But fortuantely, she stopped to lean against a kiosk wall, and he was able to catch up.

"You present the appearance of a young lady with much on her mind," he began. And so it was, she revealed. Oh, she'd been been out and about, working and learning about this strange place she'd been thrust into, but something was still very wrong. She perceived it, but not *why*.

Simon saw with different eyes. And though he could perceive much more than she knew, he wasn't so sure she wanted to know. It would not be a happy story, he admitted to himself, and sometimes ignorance was bliss.

But Tabitha would have none of that. She was adamant in her stance that "the not knowing is crippling me."

And so they spoke long and quietly about things she'd been forced to forget... moments she'd truly rather not remember, but Simon abided by her request. He did, however, impress upon her that while she had been a little tipsy, that had little to do with it in the end. Such creatures had powers she could not yet fathom, and were well-skilled in using them.

It was no surprise that this unnerved and even terrified her to some extent, once he explained it in more detail. But even in the midst of the emotions that threatened to drown her, Tabitha remained standing. And Simon felt another inexplicable twinge of pride in her.

But, she wanted to know, what was the answer? How could one such as she survive in a place like this, with such predators? She wasnt' armed, she was not like them. What could she do?

Simon smiled.

"Let me let you in on a secret, my friend. You are in a realm of powerful beings, magic and myth are alive, and they have strange and terrible powers all around you." He gestured around even at the seemingly average folk milling about them, which made her eyes widen a little. "But you have something that can counter them to a stronger degree than most realize, you know."

Tabitha looked up at his words, surprised. "I do? What's that?"

"Willpower, my little raven," Simon leaned once again on his staff. "A strong and strident will can give you a strength of resistance that is greater than some magic could ever hope to be. The Nexus? It responds to willpower. Those with strong hearts and strong will can come to control their fate in the Nexus to some extent. Learn to strengthen your will and hone it, and powers or not, you will not be easy prey for the wiles of even a strong vampire or mage."

Tabitha thought about that, and finally she nodded firmly. "I will Perrin - and I certainly won't dull my senses with drink ever again."

She began to walk with Simon as he stepped away from the booth, looking about absently as he spoke, confiding to her. "So many are lost in the pursuit of power, they forget that the true power begins within yourself."

Her voice was stronger now, resolute. "I will not be victimized like that again."

Simon gave her a smile. "I don't doubt you."

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-05 11:32 EST

Tabitha listened as Perrin explained exactly what happened to her, and why she couldn't remember. In the midst of her fear, nearly sinking into despair, the sound of his voice called to her, boosting her strength, and she felt better than she had in a week. While they talked, she noticed he wore a ring on each of his eight fingers, very thin and subtle, each with a different colored stone set into it. Then Perrin asked her what she was up to lately, actually teasing her a little about accosting old men in the woods - remembering how they met. She admitted she had spent much of the time hiding in her room when she wasn't working, and he again urged her to take heart, now that she had the secret of power, as he put it.

Tabitha told Perrin all about her new job working for the Queen of Westridge (though she never addressed her like that - Des preferred to be called Des, which Tabitha thought was cool). Perrin again teased her a little, making her smile. When she mentioned her latest task would have been more easily completed with a spreadsheet, Perrin asked if that was a kind of suitor. Tabitha blushed a little as she explained how spreadsheets helped organize data, remembering how this place wasn't like home.

"Savage - beautiful, but savage. Dangerous, but life is a risk."

"In that regard, RhyDin's like home - only without wires and lights."

Then, Perrin asked her what she had seen of RhyDin thus far. When she said all she'd seen was the Inn and the route from there to the Westridge Embassy, and the Spaceport, he tutted, and said that wasn't good enough, and that he would take her on a tour. She thought he meant within the city itself, but he said they weren't staying in the city.

"When I say we're going to see Rhydin, I mean it. Take hold of my arm, m'dear." Perrin pulled what looked like a crystal egg from his pocket as he spoke. Tabitha usually didn't trust people right off the bat, but something about Perrin - his voice perhaps, or those kindly soft eyes - touched her, and she laid her hand on his arm without hesitation.

He explained when one walked as slow as he did, you find faster ways to travel, and he assured her her trust in him was well-placed. Then, he cupped his hand around the crystal, and spoke in a deep, clear voice.

"Snowmint Point!"

At his words, the street, the shops, even the whole world, shimmered and vanished around them. Tabitha's fingers tightened on Perrin's arm, unused to the shimmering insubstantial world, her trust in him anchoring her to his side.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-05 11:55 EST

When Tabitha could focus again, she saw she was standing with him, looking out over a grassy field, waving blissfully in the wind. It looked like a sea of fragrant green, under a clear blue sky. Unspoiled, pastoral - it looked like humanity had never set foot here. The sight delighted her, and the awe and wonder was plain on her face.

?Oh Perrin - I never dreamed there were places like this here!?

Again a rarity, Simon laid his hands on her, taking her gently by the shoulders and turning her around. ?Or this??

That green field was to her back now. and she realized they were at the top of a mighty cliff, hundreds of feet down to rocky shoals and beach below. Ahead of her, the grand ocean itself stretched blue-grey into the far horizon, amid misty clouds. The wind picked up, tossing her raven locks wildly as she stared into the face of the enormity. His voice was a murmur on the breeze. ?Welcome to Rhydin.?

She held her hair out of her face, absolutely amazed by the sight before her. ?It's so wild, and beautiful.?

?That, in a pinch, is Rhydin. Terribly wild... terribly beautiful.?

Perrin held out a hand for her, beckoning her closer to the cliff?s edge. ?You trust me, you said? Then come here.?

She walked over by him, standing by his side at the edge of that mighty cliff. ?I do trust you.?

He mumbled a bit, looking for something , exclaiming softly as he led her over to a little outcropping, and showed her exactly where to stand a few inches back from the edge. ?Now, stay very still.? Simon moved behind her, and she felt his hands on her hips, his voice a solemn promise.

?Now. Lean forward, let yourself go loose. You will not fall. And close your eyes first.?

Tabitha took a deep breath, closing her eyes as she did so. He made her feel safe and secure, so she leaned forward as he said, trusting him completely. She felt blown by the wind, but her forward lean was checked finally by Simon's hands. ?Now... open your eyes.?

She was flying - or so it felt... She could see nothing below her for hundreds of feet, or to either side. It was as if she was a gull - no, a raven - in flight over the sands far, far below. Perrin?s voice urged her. ?Stretch out your arms.?

She felt free - all her sorrow forgotten as the wind blew it away, and she stretched her arms out, feeling as if she could fly for real, the only sound she heard over the wind was his voice, steady and constant, his happiness in her delight obvious as he spoke.

?Even with your feet on the ground, you can fly if you want.? And he let her remain there as long as she wished.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-05 12:09 EST

For what seemed like forever, Tabitha remained there, her delight plain on her face as the wind blew her hair all about, safe and secure as she flew. Finally, she raised up, and took a step back, excitement and wonder all in her dark eyes. Perrin gave her a caution, chuckling as her laugher echoed in the wind.

?Now, I wouldn't recommend trying this on your own.?

?I couldn't have even gotten here on my own!?

?You have a point. But in time you'll know all these paths, and eventually you'll find places no one has ever seen before. There are always little corners in Rhydin that are unexplored.?

Tabitha tried to tame her wild, windswept black locks with her fingers as they spoke. ?Really? There's placed no one's ever found??

Perrin nodded. ?Rhydin is an endless array of dark corners, little nooks, and doors leading everywhere.? He tutted as she attempted to fix her hair. ?It suits you.?

She blushed at the compliment, then gave Perrin a smile. ?I felt so free, and so safe - all at once.?

?Just for reference, we're about three hundred or so miles north of the big sea port. What else would you like to see?? He limped back to her, with his staff in hand, offering her his arm again.

?Everything!? She laid her hand on his arm again, the simple act feeling natural and right, somehow.

He chuckled again. ?Good answer?

?I'm serious - I want to see everything!?

He took out the crystal egg, and laid his hand over it, again using that deep strong voice. ?Alzadaal!? And into the stream of light they vanished again.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-05 18:23 EST

When they reappeared, it was in a large, very dimly lit space, something like a large round room, with what looked like a graven marble floor, and a curving wall she could barely glimpse.

?Now, let's make this a little less dull to see.? Simon took out another, much smaller stone, and breathed on it. Then he tossed it up into the air where it hung, and began to glow faintly. ?Avert your eyes from the stone, m'dear.? The slowly brightening stone began to reveal details of the large, round room they were in. Everything was dark marble and metal - very old, very cold, and very beautiful.

Tabitha kept close to Perrin, keeping her eyes on his arm under her hand, looking up as the room brightened. Her black eyes took everything in, and she was again awed. ?Where are we Perrin??

?These are the ruins of the lost kingdom of Alzadaal. Few are intact still.? He began to walk her forward through the echoing room, toward the wall, which looked like a glassy substance, her fingers tightening slightly on his arm as he led her forward, following his gaze.

?Now.. once we get close enough, ahh.. There we go.? The curving wall was indeed glass. It was a window, really, floor to ceiling, broken only by a doorway leading into presumably another chamber. And now she saw the secret - they were underwater. FAR underwater... she could see the blackness broken by the glow, looking out into the deep cold waters of the abyss. Strange fish floated by, glowing themselves. The sight rendered Tabitha speechless, her eyes showing Perrin how amazed she was.

?I am not sure just how far below the waters we are, but a mile at least, I would reckon.?

She nodded, and managed a whisper. ?How are we alive??

?Alzadaal's ancient civilization was far advanced in the sciences of metallurgy, and they constructed these spherical bubbles to counter the terrible pressure of the water this deep. The power they imbued in the walls keeps the crushing waters at bay.?

?There's nothing like this back home.?

Simon looked around. ?Few of these are still intact. Once their power wanes, they submit to the crushing blackness...and one by one they fall.? His voice urged her forward. ?Touch the glass. It will not yield nor harm.?

?I can imagine. Is this one OK?? She shyly reached out with her free hand to rest it on the cool glass.

He nodded. ?This is the strongest, and by my reckoning, 'twill last another century or so.?

But it was not glass - it was not there at all. She felt only a cool pressure, like she was touching water, but her hand could not break the surface.

?Oh - is this - magic?? Tabitha tested the surface with both hands now, completely fascinated.

?It is. They had a truly remarkable culture, didn't they??

She still ran her fingers over the glass-like water. ?Yes they did. What happened to them??

?No one truly knows.? He admitted. ?It's the classic story of the lost civilization. Their ruins have no clues that scholars have been able to decipher. Indeed, most scholars don't even know this civilization ever was.?

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-05 20:44 EST

Tabitha turned to Perrin, genuinely curious. ?How did you find it??

Perrin looked around the room. ?At one point in my life, I was a scholar?. Then, he looked back to her with a chuckle. ?And I was unbearably curious about the 'strange'?

She joined in his laughter. ?Sounds like me - I always had my head in a book.?

Simon pointed to her with a nod. ?And there's nothing wrong with that. But the only downside is, you never get the chance to see what you're reading about. So I began to strive to travel to such places that I read about, and study these things firsthand.?

Tabitha looked at him, admiration plain in her black eyes. ?Wow. That's so cool, Perrin.?

He tapped his staff idly against the watery-glassy surface. ?RhyDin is rich beyond measure with such things. You know..?. He glanced casually at her. ?In time, you'll find you've become sufficient enough here in RhyDin that you might be able to do the same.?

?I'd love to be able to study things like this! And I want to find a place no one else has!?

?You will.? He nodded. ?It only takes patience, and determination. Come, look at this.?
He beckoned to her, walking over to a little platform nearby.

?Well - patience isn't one of my strong points, Perrin.?

That made him chuckle. ?Well, then you have something to work on!?

Tabitha walked over to the platform, standing near him. ?I've been working on patience forever!?

Perrin stopped some feet away, not standing on the platform itself. ?That - is a teleporter.?

Tabitha was shocked. ?A teleporter - like in actually send you somewhere else teleporter??

He nodded. ?No one dares use them, though.?

?Why not??

?They still do work, even if the dome they were within has collapsed to the sea.? He looked to her, gauging her reaction.

?Oh. I can see why they're not used anymore.?

Simon nodded again, drifting off into thought. ?Back when I worked in research at these ruins, we lost several of our own to teleporter accidents.?

Tabitha sensed a touch of sadness from Perrin, and her heart went out to him. ?Oh my - that's terrible.?

?Even at the end, we weren't entirely sure how you control which destination you get to. As you can see,? he gestured about the platform. ?There are no controls. We assumed it was telepathy.?

She nodded. ?That makes sense - I would've assumed the same thing.?

He offered her his arm. ?Care to move to someplace a little more alive??

Her hand went to his arm again, like it was meant to be there, nodding. ?Yes please - this place is cold. Maybe mountains??

Simon thought, then nodded. ?It might be cold there too, but I think the view is worth it.? He touched the sphere and spoke. ?Ghelsba!? And, with a soft phooosh - off they vanished.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-06 22:39 EST

Perrin provided an anchor for Tabitha as they traveled. Her first thought was it?s cold, but at least it was a natural cold. They were standing in a little nook or crevice, and she quickly realized they were up at the precipice of some great mountain pass. The wind howled, and Simon had to speak louder to get her attention. ?Keep hold, the wind gets a little pushy up here!?

She breathed in the chill air, keeping close to Perrin, her hand tightening on his arm at his words as he walked her over to the edge of the pass, and let her see. It was a beautiful, terrible sight, they were atop a cruelly high and jagged mountain, looking down a dizzying height -but beyond that she saw something. Far below, she could see a great city - a sprawl of such majesty it could put New York to shame - a glittering sea of torches and fires, shining metal and polished wood, and works of metal and stone that were unbelievable. She stayed close by him, trusting him not to let her come to harm, and she was amazed at the city in the snow. ?Where are we??

?The city you see is known as Whitegate, the hidden capitol of the Urgan Empire. This, though, is the only safe way to view its majesty.?

?It's beautiful.? She shivered a little as the wind drove through her soft leather jacket.

?They are warlike, to put it mildly. Even to gaze upon their empire's soil is death. To gaze upon the hidden city, none would be spared their wrath.?

?How did you find this place??

?This pass was once used by both the Empire and those who strove against them, and in days long passed, for peaceful passage to and fro. I walked this path once or twice myself.?

Tabitha was quite impressed, and it showed. ?Wow. You've been everywhere.?

?When I die, I won't have it said that I 'stayed alive' rather than living.? Perrin nodded. He kept her arm, and cupped the stone one more time, speaking in that deep voice. ?Ifrit's Cauldron!? And they left the mountain.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-08 11:46 EST

The air went from chill to very warm as they appeared in a little alcove within a long passageway. On either side, high walls of natural basalt rose up over their heads. The heat was powerful, almost sweltering; and waves of it rolled over her, so hot that Tabitha slipped off her jacket, draping it over her free arm as she looked all around her. ?Where is this place??

He began walking with her down the path, which began to curve. ?It's known as Ifrit's Cauldron, after a mythical figure. And it's a sight to behold.?

When they had fully rounded the corner, Simon stopped her just before the edge of another cliff; and Tabitha found herself staring out into the gigantic circle of a monstrous crater - an active volcano. She could feel the incredible heat, see the bright lava far, far below. The crater had to be half a mile wide at least.

She kept her hand on his arm as they walked, and was just stunned at the sight before her, her voice a whisper in the heat. ?This puts Hawaii to shame.?

Perrin leaned in to tell her more about the wondrous sight before her. ?Ifrit, I shouldn't surprise you to say, was a demigod of fire.

Tabitha nodded as she remembered stories she read. ?I'm not surprised at all - the name is like efreet - legendary fire genies.?

?Local natives would often bring fruits and other offerings here, to be cast out into the Cauldron as placation to Ifrit.?

They continued to talk until the heat grew too much for them both, and they decided it was time to return to the city, so with one last intonation, Perrin and Tabitha were gone.

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-10 10:16 EST

They reappeared in a park very near the Red Dragon Inn, on a long path lined with benches. Perrin put the crystal egg back into a pocket of his cloak, his voice quiet. ?And that's just a taste, little raven, of what's out there. You see, there is wonder to balance the darkness.?

Tabitha had not left his side. In fact her hand still lay upon his arm. Wonder and delight danced in her black eyes as she looked up at him. ?I never dreamed - not in my wildest dreams did I ever think places that that were real. Thank you Perrin.?

He chuckled. ?There is so much for you to see. And see it you will, I think. I fear I've awoken, or at least reawoken, a bit of exploration wanderlust in you.?

She smiled. ?I've always loved stories of faraway places - and of lost places. There's a whole settlement that disappeared from the United States when it was first settled - and no one knows for sure what happened. I can't wait to see more places like that here.?

Perrin turned to face her. ?Now - will you accept a gift from someone you've just met??

Tabitha looked up at him again, her dark, dark eyes meeting his soft blue ones. ?It would depend on who was giving the gift. If it's from you, I'll accept it without hesitation. I trust you.?

Her response made him smile. ?Good answer. Ironic it is that while I keep insisting you trust no one, I make myself the one exception. But you must search deep inside yourself to decide if someone is true. Now,? He took out something from his pocket. ?This - is for you.? He lay a small, smooth, grey stone in her hand. It seemed unremarkable, like it could have come from the path.

She ran her fingers over the smooth surface, knowing there was more to it than met the eye. ?I see you Perrin. I see your heart clear as anything.? She looked from the stone in her hand back up at him again. ?What is this? It feels like stones I've found in the rivers back home.?

He nodded again. ?And that's good. It won't be considered valuable, so no one's likely to steal it from you. But first, let me ask you this. Where do you think of, when you think of the most comfortable, familiar, safe and close place in your heart, here??

She thought for a moment, and answered quickly. ?The forest where we first met. I spend a lot of time there.?

Simon nodded. ?Come on, then. Let's go there now.?

She turned towards the forest, with a smile on her face. ?OK - it'll be a nice walk.?

?You say that now, but just wait till winter.? He said, with a hint of the 'cranky old man' face showing. ?You'll need a spade to plough your way around.?

That thought made her laugh. ?Sounds like home to me!?

Simon snorted, but there was no malice in it - just good-natured jesting. ?Winter folk - can't understand you at all.? His laughter joined with hers, and soon they were at the clearing, and he turned to her.

?I'm more of a Fall person myself.? Her thoughts trailed off as she paused as he did in the clearing where they met.

?Now then, clasp the stone tightly in your hands.? Tabitha held the stone tightly between her hands as he instructed.

?Think of this place. Burn its image into your mind's eye... its scent, its feel, everything it means to you. And speak the one word that most comes to mind when you think of this place.? She gazed all around the clearing, feeling the trees around her, then closed her eyes to breathe in the smell of the earth, and to hear the sounds of the forest, her body trembling with her focus, her voice soft as she spoke. ?Peace.?

She felt the stone grow warm for a moment, and then cool once more. Her eyes opened as the stone heated, then cooled in her hand, and she looked to Perrin - not in fear, but curiosity.

?Well done.? He favored her with a smile. ?Let's take a walk.?

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-15 12:52 EST

Tabitha kept the stone clutched in her hand as they set off on a walk. He took her on a bewildering series of turns and twists through the trees, till she had no idea where she was anymore, even though she tried to keep track, following him, trusting him not to lead her anywhere truly dangerous. After about 10 minutes of wandering, he turned to her. ?Could you find your way home from here??

She looked all about the unfamiliar wood as she answered him. ?I don't think so - I don't know this place.?

?And that might happen to you a lot. Now, take my hand with one hand, and clasp the stone in your other, tightly. Think of that place with all your might. And speak that word you chose.?

She focused on the clearing, her body trembling with the effort, reaching for it, the stone in her right hand, and Perrin's hand in her left one, her voice soft on the wind. ?Peace.? She felt the world shift; and suddenly they were back in the clearing again. Tabitha opened her eyes, staring in amazement at the familiar clearing. ?Oh.. how - how did we get here??

?You did that.? He folded her fingers around the stone. ?Guard this with your life, little raven. It might just save it for you sometime. This is what's called a memory stone. ::he explained:: It has a spell implanted within it, and in this case, it is a Recall spell. What I had you do, was implant your memory of this place, while standing here. Now the stone answers only to you, and to this location.?

Her eyes flew to his, confusion shifting to awe. ?Wow..? She then examined the stone in her hand. ?Thank you - I don't what to say.?

Simon chuckled. ?This, of course, is just an excuse for you to explore wantonly. And not have fear of being hopelessly lost for all time.?

Tabitha continued to study the little stone, turning it in her hand, ?It'll work over and over? ?

?Longer than you can imagine - known to be reliable for a hundred years. After that, you might want to check back with me for another.? He chuckled at that, which made her grin, her smile bright. ?It's a date then!?

Then, her voice grew soft as she looked up at him. ?You've been so wonderful to me. How can I ever repay you??

Perrin gave her a wry smile. ?Tabitha, since I've met you, you've proven to be a refreshing breath of air in a rather drab little land. That's payment enough, if you'll keep doing it.?

She tucked a stray wave of black hair behind her ear as she listened. ?I don't know what I'm doing, but I'll try.?

?You just keep being yourself.? The older man nodded. ?And that's the best thing.?

She lowered her eyes to stare at the stone, her voice growing soft again. ?All I know is that if I hadn't run into you, I'd still be hiding in my room.?

He laid a hand briefly on her shoulder. ?Now, even though I advise caution in all things.. This is one thing I will say to you. Never be so focused on staying alive, that you forget to "live".?

She just stared into his soft blues eyes at those words, barely able to whisper. ?That's what Toby told me - the same words.?

?It's good advice.? He nodded. ?Life without living is nothing.?

?It must be to hear it twice. Maybe that's why I'm here.?

?Advice I need to take myself, sometimes.?

Tabitha sensed a slight shift in Perrin?s mood, something behind his words, and she gently touched his hand before he moved it off her shoulder, changing the subject with a shy smile. ?You've seen so many wonderful things.

He gave her a wry little smile in return. ?I've seen a sight or two. But now, if it's not too late, where would you like to go next??

She thought a moment. ?Anywhere, as long as you?re my guide.?

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-02-17 11:39 EST

Perrin turned towards the Inn. ?Well, let's walk a bit. And you can tell me some more about yourself.?

She nodded at that. ?I'd love a walk. What would you like to know? I'm afraid I'm not even a quarter exciting as you.?

He shook his head. ?Just because you've not seen what I have does not in any way diminish you, little raven. Tell me about *you*, not so much what you've seen.?

His name for her brought a little smile to her face as she brushed her hair from her eyes. ?Well, there's not much to tell really. I'm an only child who spent most of my time reading books and wanting to be in the stories.?

Perrin grew thoughtful. ?What did you do in those stories??

I love stories of knights, and elves, and dragons even now, and I wished I could find places like them for real. Life in the suburbs is dull if you're different.?

?Were you the knight or the princess?? He smiled a little.

She thought about that for a moment. ?I wanted to be the knight more than the princess. I didn't want to wait to be rescued. There was one story I loved - East of the Sun, West of the Moon, where the lady had to rescue her prince. That's my favorite still.?

Her answer seemed to please him, and he gave a little chuckle. ?Now you just need a prince, though I daresay you'll find no lack of them here.?

?If they're like the yutzes from the other night - forget it. Guys like that are a dime a dozen back home. And I don't even want to get into what I think of the one who used me for dinner.?

Perrin looked seriously at Tabitha, though his eyes had a spark of mirth. ?He had good taste.? Tabitha made a face right back at him, grinning. ?I'm not that tasty!?

?Well, I'm not one to judge.? He laughed. ?But that's enough bad jokes from me. You are quite a special young woman, Tabitha, that much I can tell you for certain.?

She shrugged at that. ?I'm just - me. I haven't done anything special.?

He nodded in return. ?Exactly. You - are you. Despite what older cultures say, it's not what you've done that defines your worth, and least of all not your station of birth. It's what's in your heart, and your soul.?

She considered his words, then looked up into his eyes. ?You asked me what I saw in your heart. May I ask you - what do you see in mine??

Perrin considered that for a moment, then answered her, a touch of gentleness in his voice. ?I see a heart as big as the ocean, and an unshakeable fortitude. Whatever tide may sweep you, dear Tabitha, you are a rock. You are kind, no matter what darkness might be around you. And, you are true. And perhaps that's why you perceive me as being trustworthy.? He smiled slightly. ?The truthful are not easily deceived. And even now you are beginning to see the truth of things, despite the veils that lay around everyone here.?

His words made her smile softly, with a little nod as she looked at him. ?Thank you Perrin. Most people are not what they appear to be. Everyone has a secret, except me.?

?You might have one and not even know it.? His voice trailed off, like he was thinking of something as he spoke. ?And what are secrets but the spice of life?? The darkness was growing, but the path was well marked even in the dim moonlight Rhydin had this time of the month.

?Very true - secrets can be very exciting. Like finding a new place!? She smiled over to Perrin. ?Thanks again for showing me all those cool places.?

Her thanks made him smile again. ?Tell me of the friends you've made so far.? He was loath to let the night end, even if he wouldn?t admit it to her, or even to himself.

?Well, besides you,? She returned his little smile. ?there's Lydia - she's an elf, a real live elf - and Toby, and Grem, and there's Des - she's my boss - and her husband Gav - they're the sweetest couple I've ever seen - and I've met Erin, and Jade - she's from the States too.? She knew she was rambling, but she was enjoying his company very much, and felt safe in his presence, and she didn?t want the night to end either.

He turned to her as they walked along the path. ?You make friends easily, don't you??

?I meet people easily, but - I wouldn't say I make friends so easily. Toby and Lydia are probably the closest I have to real friends - besides you. I feel like I've known you forever.?

?Perhaps we met in another life, if I believed in such things.? He favored her with more little smiles.

She considered his words again. ?I don't know about that - I do know that I trust you, and that's strange. I don't usually trust people easily - not like I do with you. I feel like I could go anywhere with you, no matter how scary - and nothing would happen to me.?

He nodded firmly. ?And well you shouldn't.? Then he smiled again - she made him smile more in the past few days than he ordinarily did in a year. ?I don't know if I'm quite that omnipotent. But you do see true. I'd as soon see the sky fall then you get hurt, and I find that a little strange. I'm not what you would call a people person, and certainly not one to be so immediately taken with .. well, someone I just met.? He was aware how that could have sounded, and seemed almost shy after he said the words.

His words didn?t embarrass her, quite the opposite in fact. True gentlemen were very rare back home, and seemed even rarer here, and his manners touched her. ?That makes two of us - it used to drive my coworkers nuts that I wouldn't be all into some guy I just met. I don't let people in very well. Yet - I trust you completely.?

?Well, that settles it. You simply must keep keeping me company, until we figure it out.? He nodded as if that was a given, which made Tabitha smile. ?I'd like that - a lot.?

?You're staying at the Red Dragon??

She nodded. ?I still have a room there. My wage from Des more than covers the rate, with enough left over to shop sometimes.?

?Then I will know where to seek you.? Perrin nodded again, as their walk finally brought them back to the Inn. After talking more near the steps, and finally saying their goodbyes, Tabitha entered the Inn and returned to her room, still smiling as she got ready for bed. She slept well for the first time since arriving in RhyDin, and her dreams were happy ones as she discovered new worlds with her new friend at her side.

Wanderer · Date: 2007-02-28 13:21 EST

When next they found themselves together, they were walking along the great East-West road - westward, it would pass their clearing, and inevitably to the marketplace, Rhydin Town, the Inn, and beyond. East, it would head through many lands - some empty, some inhabited, before reaching the great Sea.

Tabitha walked along with Perrin - keeping his pace, enjoying his fine company as they walked. "Where are we off to now? she inquired.

"I'm taking you home," he replied quite seriously, before adding, "More to the point, I'm taking you to see the Archive I've retrieved, which happens to be there."

"Oh - that's right - you said you'd show me your home!" Her face broke into a bright smile. Perrin nodded as he brushed a low-hanging branch out of their way. "Not something I do often, truly." But then, she was an exception to many things.

They continued to walk, until they were well out of town, and starting into the long empty woodland region that separated Rhydin Town from the realms beyond. Were they not together, a darkening cool fall night like this would be unnerving out on such a road.

Tabitha kept close to Perrin, feeling safer that way, as they continued their walk. She kept darting glances at his gait. "Is it very far - I hope your leg's ok.."

"It's not as bad as it seems." Simon shook his head. "It's more a dull ache than anything, and I've long since gotten used it it whilst walking. Ahh... here we are."

Simon stopped, though there were no side roads to be seen. He simply turned right into the woods, and carefully made his way with her through the trees. Tabitha couldn't see anything of where they were going, but she simply stuck close, trusting him.

As they delved further into the thickening treeline, Simon continued his lecture. "Archives are a very specific form of science, crystal technology it was called. Developed by a long-lost race, who, " he chuckled humorously, "left good notes."

She giggled at that. "Notes are good! You really think I can work it - not being from here?"

Simon gave her a thoughtful nod. "It doesn't require magical power in and of itself. You will take time to learn and adapt to it, but I have faith in you." The soft smile from her was answer enough.

The forest got as black and thick as you can imagine in any fairy tale. But Simon made she she was never out of touch. "Don't worry. We're almost there." Indeed, the drips of water were almost gone. And it felt warmer, strangely.

"This is like Hansel and Gretel.., " she shivered, still keeping close to him.

"What's that?" Simon was ever curious about the tales and traditions of her world as she was of Rhydin's. And when she explained, he listened intently.

"It's a tale of two children who are left in the woods - and they get lost.. " Tabitha looked around with just a tinge of unease. Or maybe it was just the strangeness of the place that she could feel. "I haven't been in this part before.."

Simon murmured, pushing more branches aside. "No... that I promise you, little raven. You haven't."

The air was decidedly warmer. And was it a little brighter? Tabitha continued to glance around, her curiosity growing by the moment. The trees began to thin - they were on a definite path now. She could see where she was going again, the forest around then was definitely brightening as if approaching daylight.

"Oh.. where are we?"

Simon smiled slightly, enigmatically. "Home..."

The trees drew apart on either side of the path, and ahead she saw daylight. Where before they were in the deepening twilight of a chill autumn land, now it was warm and comfortable. And ahead, she saw impossibly broad daylight as they approached the edge of the trees.

Tabitha's eyes went wide, her voice nary a whisper. "I've been through these woods before ..how did I miss this?" She looked over at the equally quiet response.

"Because.. it was not there."

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-03-11 01:10 EST

She saw the land open up before her, a wide and broad green sward of land, a little creek ran through it, around the base of a gentle hill in the center. And on top of that small hill, a great house - not a castle, but certainly close - an ancient looking manor. The sky overhead was almost completely cloudless, and blue as you could wish. ?Welcome to my home.?

Tabitha was awestruck by the sight. ?Oh my - this is your home??

?It is.? They walked along the path, through the green field. Around them, all manner of flowers and green grew wild and free.

?How is it spring here - and fall beyond??

Perrin didn't answer her at first, as they wended their way through the green, to the gentle climb. Even that was not much of a trial, so easy was the slope. The mansion ahead.. well, it looked big, very old, and intimidating. And yet, Tabitha sensed a faint air of comfort to it, knowing it was his.

?This is like a fairy tale,? she murmured, impressed and awed at the sight all around her.

?There are many things I wish to show you, little raven. But first,? he turned around, ?Look back, the way we came.? This high, she could see better - the clearing was surrounded in a full circle by the forest. But the forest only seemed to go a short distance further, the distance they'd walked. Beyond that... it was a wall of misty darkness. It was as if everything beyond a certain distance from this center point was... not there. Blue sky turned to grey mist, the forest ended in utter darkness. And the sight rendered Tabitha speechless, her mouth forming an ?o? of shock.

Simon cleared his throat. ?You asked me how it was that it is spring here, and autumn outside... That is, my little raven, because there is no outside. There is *here*, and beyond it, the void. You have left Rhydin, indeed you have left everything.? His voice dropped to a whisper. ?This world, exists by itself.?

Her confusion played across her face. ?But.. how? We can get back??

He gave her a reassuring nod. ?Oh, of course. Just as easily as we walked in, never fear. This little island, Tabitha, exists independently of reality as you know it. I believe someone referred to it once as a 'pocket dimension'.?

?Oh.. I've heard of those - it's a theory back home - not reality.? Awe and wonder filled her voice.

?Though certainly I've no pockets that could hold it.? Simon frowned slightly.

Tabitha checked her new cloak, a gift from Perrin, with a sassy grin. ?Do I??

That make him chuckle. ?Not yet, but we've time to work on that.? They stood on a wide veranda, a 'front porch' so to speak, before the great front doors. Above them was a railed balcony, with a closed door behind it. She looked over at him with a smile. ?It's all like a fairy tale come to life, Perrin.?

?Well, those tales must have a nugget of truth to them, non? A source to their lore?? He looked around the grounds. ?No evil can come within my borders. No soul can walk here without my leave.?

?I believe they must..? She turned her eyes to him - black eyes meeting blue, the significance of the moment not lost on her. ?Thank you.?

?I have not brought a guest within these borders in long count of years. The housekeeping may be a tad below scratch.? He admitted this as he opened the front doors, a wry smile on his face ? which brought out a soft smile from Tabitha. ?I'm sure it's fine.?

Tabitha St Germain · Date: 2007-04-07 14:59 EST

Inside the foyer, it was as he said - dim, gloomy, not terribly musty and dusty but just... well... old. It wasn't a cheery place, though it didn't yet have haunted house status. The d?cor was very rich, all woods and deep colors. Tapestries, paintings, and all manner of art were on the walls of the room. Chairs and coat hooks lined the two walls, while the windows were a very thick cut glass - like stained glass, in a sense. Tabitha took everything in, sensing the age and loneliness in the hall. When she spoke next, her voice was soft. ?You've been alone a long time.?

It was longer than he cared to admit. ?Be careful not to wander.? He said, with a touch of humor. ?There are some, ah, oddities here and there, little nooks and crannies that could be troublesome.?

?I don't plan to stray far.? The soft smile only he seemed to see lit her face again.

?Let me show you some of the place, though.? He took her hand without much thought, and walked her through the foyer into the First Hall - it was circular, and topped with an enormous glass and worked iron dome, looking up into the clear sky. Twin curving staircases wrapped around from the left and the right, and hallways led down many directions. In the marble floor, made up of many colored tiles, was a great and completely incomprehensible symbol. Her black eyes went wide as she took everything in. Curiosity danced across her face as she looked at the floor. ?What's it mean??

He led her up one of the curving staircases, so she could get a better look. ?That?is the symbol of my House. It dates back a hundred generations or so.? There were suits of armor in alcoves, strange and wonderful weapons mounted on the wall - everything you'd imagine in such tales. She gave his hand a gentle squeeze ? as the gesture seemed fitting, then she looked to him with a teasing grin. ?Is there a sleeping princess in the top tower??

Simon chuckled. ?I hope not, I'd have to feed her. Though I could find you a couch and then we'd have one.? He nodded, teasing her right back. ?The Manor is four floors, with two wings.? He gestured as he spoke. ?And yes, there is a tower.?

?Oh come on - in Sleeping Beauty the princess gets the bed!? Her laughter echoed in the halls. ?But that's a fairy tale.? He added, wisely. ?They always exaggerate.?

Her expression sobered. ?All this space.. it must be lonely.?

?I don't use most of it.? He answered honestly. ?There are so many things long forgotten in here, secrets buried in other secrets. The first floor, below, is mostly where I spend my time. The second floor is the other part, where I sleep. The third floor hasn't been touched in ages, and I don't talk much about the basement.? He paused a moment, then continued. ?The Tower has been locked for years also. The wings are where most of the usable living space is. The main body of the Manor is where most of the history of my family is stored.?

She was keenly interested ? and it showed. ?Oh... like a museum! May I see??

Simon thought about that. ?Say rather, a repository.? Then, he nodded. ?And there are many things I can show you.? He beckoned with his free hand, and led her down one of the hallways. ?Since you're with me, you need not worry. But I should mention again just so you're aware, there are strange, wonderful and deadly things within this house.? His expression grew serious. ?You can imagine, seeing where the house itself resides.?

And in all this time, her hand hadn't left his once. She could see to the 'east and west' of the main circular hall, where the wings branched off. The south was where they'd come in.. and ahead to the north she saw dim light shining down a long hallway. It almost looked forbidding. It reminded Tabitha of a mix of Castle Greyskull and the Tower of Orthanc, and she kept close to Perrin. ?I'm safe as long as I'm with you, right??

He nodded. ?I promise you, Tabi, at my side nothing will harm you.?

She softly squeezed his hand. ?Then I guess I'm not leaving your side.?

His tone was joking, and yet serious. ?Besides You could very easily get lost in here.? On either side of that big main hallway were tall doors of some dark wood. Strange symbols were painted on them, and they had a smooth, shining black ebon panel the size of a small book just to the side of each doorknob. Some had transom windows above the doors, but others were completely sealed. Overhead, great crystalline chandeliers glinted faintly in the dim light filtering in from the windows at the far end of the hall:: Underfoot was a thick carpet of indeterminate age; woven with many colors and scenes - like the tapestries she saw everywhere. Tabitha kept very close to Perrin, her eyes taking in everything, and her voice was soft. ?What's behind the doors??

Perrin corrected himself as they walked. ?There are two towers - the one on the east side is the Astronomy Tower, and the one on the West is the Old Tower.? Then he gave her an honest answer. ?Many rooms I have forgotten.. This house is far older than anything you've seen thus far in Rhydin.?

?I can tell - it feels old.? She perked up then. ?You have an Astronomy tower??

He nodded. ?The rooms in it, though many are locked, held ancient stargazing devices, maps, and more. At the top was a place where my ancestors would plot the movements of stars and attempt to foresee the future.? Simon snorted, though with a good-natured grin. ?What rubbish that was.?

?You mean like Astrology? People still buy that back home. There's a horoscope in every paper.?

He nodded. ? They do here as well.?

She shrugged as they walked. ?It's all a bunch of hooey - you can find yourself in any ?sign?.?

He brought her finally to the end of the great hallway; ahead was a massive window, and beyond it she could see the far side of the great clearing; the trees beyond, and the grey misty nothingness beyond that.

Tabitha murmured as she saw the great window. ?I've never seen anything like this - ever.?

Two great doors flanked the window, one on either side of the wall, and he gestured to them both. ?The towers.?

?Oh.. which one to see first?? She gave his hand another gentle squeeze.

?I'll show you the Astronomy Tower... the Old Tower has been locked up since I was a child.? He gave her a wry smile; then he went over to the eastern door, and touched his fingers to the black panel; and various runes lit up on it in bright colors, which rendered Tabitha speechless as she watched him. When his fingers touched the panel... the wooden door just faded away, revealing a stone staircase and torches burning in lit brackets beyond.

Tabitha?s eyes went wide, and her hand tightened in his. ?Oh.. ?

He held it tightly, reassuring her, his tone light. ?No worries. This is my home, after all? Never mind the dire warnings he'd given earlier.. and up the winding staircase he took her.

Topic: Into Wonderland

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Wanderer

Wanderer

Tabitha St Germain

Wanderer

Tabitha St Germain

Wanderer

Tabitha St Germain

Wanderer

Tabitha St Germain

Wanderer

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain

Wanderer

Tabitha St Germain

Tabitha St Germain