bloodofthehunt

parents and family

2006-04-11T15:45:07Z

...No, to answer someone else's question, I've never been pregnant nor wished to be. Karl's the only one of us we know was once capable of fathering a child. Whether it'd still be possible even for him, well, it's a moot question.
I'm happy for them, but no, I wouldn't trade places if I could.
I'm curious, what *does* everyone think is the one trait or skill a parent needs? I have my own opinions, but they're rather academic.

bloodofthehunt @ 2006-02-20T14:17:00

2006-02-20T19:23:47Z

She manages to get through a polite if angry conversation with Willow's best friend and two of the girl's co-workers, when they realize what's happened. Oz at least understands that the Riders, powerful or not, are *not* unlimited. He's hurting, but
he'll be all right. His lovers and their newest family member are the best "medicine" for him just now.
Cerridwen's bent the rules as far as she dares, in this case. There's little that can be done, save to grit one's teeth and get on with things afterward.

After that, and the night with Michael, she needs a short time away from people.
She'll be around if anyone wants her. It's not like she's limited to one place at a time, none of them are.

(for Sam and Michael Knight, but also open)

2006-02-17T14:38:35Z

She'd meant to find Oz first; as Willow's maker, her former lover and friend, if anyone had the right to be told what had happened, he did. However, a quick search showed her that the young man wasn't on Earth. Cerridwen's eyes narrowed as she caught a glimpse of where he was. Now wasn't the time to distract him
or risk weakening him.

She left his message with Faith and Brien, and saw to it that Willow's letters to
Carolina Jacks, Mike & Draco, and Richard Kimble were left where the intended recipients would find them before too many more days had passed.
The redheaded witch's body had been taken to a morgue outside L.A. They'd have to see to that; allowing her to be autopsied or buried wasn't a particularly good idea. Any medical examiner worth her salt would notice a number of disturbing anomalies in Willow's condition.
Tadc had said he'd handle it. Cerridwen carefully didn't ask questions about what exactly he meant to do. Her brothers' methods of hiding things were certainly thorough, but they also tended to be gruesome at times. Not that she cared, but if Michael asked about details, she'd prefer not to have to dodge him or lie.
Which brought her 'round again to the last two letters.
For Samael, and for "her" Michael.
The other notes had been fairly innocuous, as Karl pointed out, and her friends might draw some comfort from knowing that she'd seemingly been happy and thinking of them
just before...but the letters for the Sorcerer and Michael were a bit more revealing.

Still. Samael might well know already what had happened, and this was the girl's final wish. Then, honor it and be done. Or so she hoped.

Cerridwen nodded wearily. She'd find Michael last, after her other 'errands' for the next few days were finished, so that there was no chance she'd be obliged to leave him after she gave him the news.

She 'ported herself to the Tower, going in search of her family.

bloodofthehunt @ 2006-01-16T23:03:00

2006-01-17T04:04:35Z

You are the Justice card. Justice preserves the
harmony of the world. Working with opposite
forces, Justice does not seek to criticize or
condemn but rather to accept. The idea behind
the card justice is that opposite forces are
complementary; you could not have good without
evil or light without darkness. Justice's
position is to make sure that if a thing is out
of balance, the weight of its energy is
realigned with its opposite force. This card is
also a card of humour, for it is in pointing
out contrary positions that humour is often
found. The attitude that is found in the
humourous person, being able to shift
perspective and flow with an instinct, is
important in the maintenance of good balance.
Image from The Blue Moon Tarot Deck.
http://www.themysticeye.com/pics/bluemoon.htm

Which Tarot Card Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

riding--for Michael, but also open to others

2005-10-07T14:14:43Z

She'd left the pendant on after talking to him, but gone quickly upstairs to change into more casual clothes;jeans, boots, a short-sleeved blue shirt. Her hair tied back out of her eyes and braided.
The day was warm, faint breezes the only weather as she walked through the hallway to the entrance.
Intercepting one of the majordomos, she asked it to find Michael and tell him she was
down at the stables, if he'd care to meet her there.

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-10-05T23:50:00

2005-10-06T04:05:09Z

Wide awake and thinking perhaps too much, though that isn't a habit I'm likely to break anytime soon. Soft laugh. I remember, last winter when we all arrived,
Gwydyr was wondering if he'd have to literally drag me out of the Tower library.
I tend to be a rather voracious 'bookworm', on almost any subject. He encouraged that, when we were 'younger'.
Not forgetting anything doesn't hurt, though sometimes I think...
Heh. No matter.
If I'm not careful I'll wind up with song lyrics stuck in my head again for a day or so. That annoys them--the other Riders--because if they're asleep when it happens, they dream about whatever the echo is. Not that we sleep all that often, we don't need to, unless one of us is hurt or unwell. Or using the dreamscape to contact or locate somebody.
H'm. Riding lessons, or practice? I know I said I'd take Michael. If anyone else would like to join us when we get around to it, feel free. Probably not for a couple of days, as he's training with Karl--and Karl wouldn't know 'easy' if it bit him somewhere.

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-09-20T23:26:00

2005-09-21T03:27:34Z

You Are A: Duck!

Found in many lakes and ponds, ducks are a common site the world over. Known for their famous quack, ducks tend to congregate in flocks or go off on their own in pairs. As a duck, you may seem friendly at times but will not hesitate to bite if someone is bothering you. Your love for travel and your ability to swim are some reasons why you are a duck.

You were almost a: Pony or a Bear Cub
You are least like a: Groundhog or a Turtle Cute Animals Quiz

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-09-08T21:50:00

2005-09-09T01:52:31Z

LadyRiel: No, Cerra wouldn't be locked in with you. Fair warning
Michael: Pouts. "Awww, why not?"
LadyRiel: Because the idea here is that you should *not* try to arrange for that to be necessary.
Michael: "Oh." Pause. "What do I get if I'm good?"
LadyRiel: eyes him. "Doesn't work that way. Get healthy and we can make plans."
Michael: "Hmph." Pokes out his tongue. ::insert petulant schoolchild complex here::
LadyRiel: Michael, do you remember what happened the last time you did that while we were talking?
Michael: Blinks. "Oh yeah." Clams up.
LadyRiel: Smart. You're not a kid. We're not going to bribe you to practice healthy habits. And don't say "but I'm borrrred!"

Michael: Eyes her. "You're being far too serious, hon." Touches her cheek gently, but then smirks at her 'borrrrred' comment. "But mom..."
LadyRiel: *goes in search of a frying pan*
Michael: "Hey, I was being nice." Pouts again.
LadyRiel: *rummaging through the cupboard, eyes the pout and shakes her head*
LadyRiel: *chuckles*
Michael: Glares, folds arms and continues to pout.
LadyRiel: Ah! Here it is.
Michael: Throws single kernel of popcorn.
LadyRiel: *deflects with extra large frying pan*
LadyRiel: *kernel bounces off and hits him on the forehead*
Michael: ...and knocks him to the floor.
LadyRiel: *watches*
Michael: "Ouch."
Michael: Glares. Folds arms while still on floor and continues to pout. "You've been hanging around the Riders for too long."
LadyRiel: how's the weather down there? need a raincoat?
Michael: "depends on whether you're going to up the mandatory bucket of water on my head or not." More pouting.
LadyRiel: If you insist. *puts down the pan and goes over to the sink* : *trying not to laugh*
Michael: Dramatic sigh. "Go ahead....without Cerri, I no longer care."
LadyRiel: *fills pail with cool water and soap and food coloring*
Michael: Continues to pout and await his fate
LadyRiel: Coming? *Walks to the front door*
Michael: Eyes her. "Where?"
LadyRiel: *keeps walking*
LadyRiel: We need to find someone to use this on, don't we?

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-09-04T10:15:00

2005-09-04T14:16:46Z

Cerridwen: *tired sigh, hugs Michael, putting her head on his shoulder*
Michael: "Honey, honey, honey." He stroked her hair.
Cerridwen: "Don't be hurt, hon, but...I don't want to think about this for a while. Just...let it be, and think about better things." Small smile.

Michael: He bit his lip for a moment. "Okay. What would you like to do?"
Cerridwen: Closes her eyes. "Lu and I were talking to Samael. I was...he told me to go. not his fault but..." looks away
Cerridwen: "Something simple. Fun. Go out , I'm not sure. Even driving or swimming again. If you feel you can. Or, stay in and relax."
Michael: He thought about it for a minute. To be honest, being out in public wasn't his first choice. he didn't feel....right, and that was never a good sign. "Would you mind if we stayed in? Maybe watch a movie? order out?" Hmmm, how does one order out on this plane of existence?
Cerridwen: *smiles* I keep hearing that we *need* to see certain movies. The Lady Arcana's seems to be "Labyrinth"...have you ever seen that? Movie and order out sounds good. I can 'poof ' to somewhere to get food easy enough.
what'd you like?
Michael: Thinks back. "Not sure...could watch it anyway." He smiled. "Just as long as you 'poof' back." His eyes glittered a moment. "You can go poof and I'm the poofy monster. We are a pair."
Michael: "Good ol'pizza sounds fine to me."
Cerridwen: *laughs* All right. what'd you want on yours? and what to drink?
Cerridwen: *tiny smirk* I'd suggest you not try to drink me under the table either. Fair warning.
Michael: "I don't mind. Go for the lot." His eyes widened a little. "Wouldn't think of it, love. There are lots of other things I'd like to do to you under the table instead."

Cerridwen: *soft laugh* hm. Well, then. Be right back with those. *poofs out and returns in a few minutes with pizza, cold soda and beer, and a copy of Labyrinth
Michael: "Talk about service." He'd managed to drag himself off the floor and into a change of clothes, straightening up the room. Poofing...yes, poofing up some cushions and lining up for some serious lounging about. "Your divan awaits, m'dear."
Cerridwen: *sets the boxes and so on down, sits down, smiling* "Why thank you..." batting her eyelashes, exaggerated.
Michael: From behind his back he produced a single daisy flower he'd conned flying red thing into grabbing for him. "It's not a rose, but any flower would pale when compared with your beauty, love."
Cerridwen: *melts, tender smile as she takes it*
Cerridwen: ...thank you...*softly*
Michael: He smiled. "You're welcome, love." And leaning over he kissed her gently.
Cerridwen: *kissed him back, eyes shining*
Michael: "Now, I think we should eat before the food gets cold." He picked up the movie she'd brought back. He frowned. "Did videos shrink?"
Cerridwen: "Different format. DVDs. They're new-ish."
Michael: Raised eyebrow. "oh, okay. I think I'll let you fix that up while I go grab us some plates and glasses."
Cerridwen: No, cold pizza wouldn't be good All right. *takes the DVD and goes over to the player, looking thoughtful* Gadgets not one of your interests?

Michael: Michael blinked, suddenly faced with a flashback at those words. "Um, uh, no." Liar. He swallowed and disappeared in search of the required crockery.

Cerridwen: *pops the DVD in, scrutinizes the controls and hits play. Looks at the other DVDs in the rack, curiously* "I hope you're not one of those who have to have the TV remote within reach at all times..." joking
Michael: He came back in with a couple of plates and glasses. "Hah! It is built into the male constitution, m'dear. Thou shalt have control of the TV set. 'S what we traded for the twelfth rib, you know. Oh, that and the lovely sight I see before me." He grinned. "Other than the pizza."
Cerridwen: "Oh, really? Hadn't realized that." Smirks. "Well, you got your ..rib's worth, so to speak." She hands over the remote, setting it on the table next to the food
Cerridwen: I like your constitution just fine, so let's not mess with it
Michael: He wrapped an arm around her waist. "Hmm, I'm set. Remote in one hand, lovely Cerri in the other....okay, let's eat."
Cerridwen: *opens one of the pizza boxes* help yourself...* as the movie starts* leans back against him slightly* .*hugs round his shoulders*...
Michael: he nabbed a slice of pizza and idly nibbled on it. He held her close as the movie started.
Cerridwen: *sipped at her drink, half her attention on Michael, half on the screen*
Michael: "So any idea of why we're supposed to watch this particular movie?"
Cerridwen: No, not really. She seemed to think it'd be good--enjoyable, and worth watching ..said there was wisdom in the story as well as fun, I think
Michael: "Okay. Assuming I don't get distracted."
Cerridwen: *glances at him, impish look* No?
Michael: Raised eyebrow. "No, what?"
Cerridwen: You? Distracted?"
Michael: "Well, you have to admit that the Tv has little chance when set up in comparison to you." Grin. God, he was laying it on thick tonight. All true and well meant of course, but geeesh, should he put up a pre-emptive duck?
Cerridwen: Good to know. *whaps the back of his head* I'd hate to think it was serious competition
Michael: Hmm, maybe he should've. "Ouch." But he was grinning as he rubbed his head. "Be careful, things tend to rattle around in there." And then he was tickling her. You know, the movie wasn't getting much attention at all.
Cerridwen: *Ha!* tickles his ribs, then whapping him with a newspaper*
Michael: "Hey, what's witht he weapons?" Thwaps her with a cushion.
Cerridwen: *still tickling*
Cerridwen: *drops the paper, wrestling for the cushion*

Michael: "Oh ho, who says you can have this cushion? This cushion is my cushion and if you want it, you're going to have to fight me for it." challenging grin.
Cerridwen: Oh, really? *evil grin* I say. *tugging* and i accept your challenge, SIR...
Michael: He giggled. He actually giggled, tugging on the cushion. "i wonder what's inside this." If they kept tugging like that, they'd soon find out.
Cerridwen: *snickers, batting at his head one-handed to try to distract him, still pulling* That all you got, hot stuff?
Michael: "Oooh, you think I'm hot? And what's with hitting me around the head, young lady? Trying to knock some sense into me?"
Cerridwen: *tugs, and then reaches for something behind him* uh huh. *eyes sparkling* I do..
Michael: "What're you up to?"
Cerridwen: *yank!* and doesn't answer, laughing* Why would I tell you that?
Michael: he eyed her. Anything was possible...literally. Somewhere on the other side of the room Hoggle introduced himself. Michael wasn't really listening. And watching? There were much more interesting activities to watch. Alluring smile. "Cos you love me?"
Cerridwen: Of course i do. But I'm still going to win...
Michael: "Now why doesn't that surprise me?"
Cerridwen: because this is you we're talking about. C'mon, give it up! *laughing*
Michael: "Me? Give up? C'mon, dearie, you should know better than that."
Cerridwen: *drops a handful of marbles down the back of his shirt*
Michael: "Holy crap! Cold! Cheat!"
Cerridwen: "RIiiiiight"
Michael: He wriggled, the cold hard balls lumpy and bumpy on his backbone. "You know, one of these days I'm gonna get me some of those tele-bilities and I am gonna get some revenge."
Cerridwen: "heh. Feel free to try. Age and experience, love. *grins, STILL with the deathgrip on the cushion*

Michael: "But then there are always the old fashioned methods." And finally wriggling a marble or two out the back of his shirt he grabbed them and stuck them down her shirt. "Wanna get me for plagiarism?"
Cerridwen: Imitation is flattery. *Evil smile* *YANK *and dips her finger in the pizza sauce, going for his nose*
Michael: "Woah!" He backed off. You're on a roll tonight, aren't you."
Cerridwen: Yes. *solemn nod* Must be the company i've been keeping
Michael: He eyed her. "I don't know whether to take that as compliment or not."
Cerridwen: *mischievous smile, doesn't answer*
Michael: "You love playing all mysterious, don't you? Maybe i should take a page out of your book?"
Cerridwen: *considers, last half hearted tug, * that'd...be interesting
Michael: He grinned. "You might regret that you know."
Cerridwen: No pain, no gain
Michael: Flat glare. "I'll see what I can come up with."

ooc and open to suggestions

2005-09-03T16:20:15Z

I have been feeling blocked in some ways with these characters, asked a friend of mine for opinions. After some thought, I'm spinning the Riders off into separate journals for RP purposes. Either I'll keep this one as Death/Cerridwen's journal, or as a writing journal for all four and a few other characters of mine, as i'd hate to waste the paid time and extra icons.

Any thoughts on avatars for Famine/Tadc and War/Evan? I've been working with mostly random images from Getty. It's worked so far.But.. Also, any suggestions on what most you'd like to see from them--old stories/their history, future, set now? more
interpersonal/romantic or family related SLs/? I do have some ideas for short and longer term SLs.

...okay and Tadc in my head is threatening to write a personal ad for someone else as well as one for himself. Should I sit on him, or are there any takers, IC?

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-09-01T22:29:00

2005-09-02T02:47:11Z

"You're needed at the Realm." Her voice was quiet, but a little too neutral. Emotionless. "Samael and the others need you. So do those of your people you're not watching closely enough."
It's not a request. He stares her down, shaking his head. "They don't--"

"I'm not here because I like the scenery, boy." Whipcrack of temper. "I know why you felt you had to leave. I can't tell you what to do about Miri. Whether she'll want you still, or it was passing fancy, and only you can decide what feelings you'll act on. Or won't. But the Arcana have had struggle after problem after crisis since you left, to the point that your Eldest is with Lady Arcana now, trying to persuade her to seal the Realm as she did last December."

"Need me for what?" Mix of hurt, confusion, anger. "I was there before. I tried. I was
...They don't need War's presence. Nor do I know that--"

Cerridwen's hand flashes out, a hard slap that makes his ears ring.
"Speak for yourself." His sister's voice was like arctic winds. "No one is better off for your absence. You are missed. Don't presume to tell us what we need from you. To know our minds, or intentions, better than ourselves do. For now, we need you back.
Rider as well as sibling, brother, friend."

He goes to the Lady Arcane, next, and listens, hearing confirmation of what they've said, not that he really needs it.

The Realm's warm. Clear sky and air that doesn't smell of smoke, explosives, blood,fear. He pauses then goes first to his rooms, changes out of armor and overjacket, into simple jeans and a T-shirt. Walking through the halls, he takes the route that leads to the library.

while I'm busy being designated...something or other

2005-08-23T01:52:07Z

The Random Question Meme!

An array of completely random questions about my friends!

How will windcharmer die?: I think that's basically impossible.
Why did breacan cross the road?: Following the one that got away.
What's the last thing you said to _nightflyer_?: "No, I don't think you should sleep with my brother.
Or my other brother."
What do you most envy about raven_dark_?: Flexibility. Imagination.
What would happen if cuimhnigh and daifyn went on a date together?: ...

...
Assuming Midir wasn't present? World War Three.
Who would make a better stuffed animal, oldestbeloved or deadlyseed?: Sam. Though seeing Gwydyr with a tail and fluffy ears would be ...
Who would make a better window-washer, third_arcana or luanddee?: Hm. I'd say it was a tie. They each got 2 votes.
Can psyche_soul solve a Rubik's Cube?: I do believe so.
Does stabbityfun look better with long hair?: Jury's out. Personally, I'd say yes. Sis is arguing.
Whom is _shadowsoul_ attracted to?: No. Not getting into that, I like my head attached.

This is by heptadecagram. You can find your own completely random questions here.

Do you feel enlightened now?

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-08-16T13:36:00

2005-08-16T17:38:14Z

He reads Miranda's letter and finds himself caught between laughter and disbelief.
The hell?

No. And he won't write back until he's had time to think.
He's not going to make the mistake of diving in again. Not even sure what she expects from him...or he from her and the rest of their family.
If he expects or wants anything but what they've already offered.
"It changes things?" For her, perhaps it did. He doesn't claim to understand the female mind.
He'd been there for months. She hadn't given any indication of 'wanting anything' from
him, had never spoken up until he left. Was it only that? The realization that he might not always be there, on any terms?

He starts on a letter to Willow first, and another to Julien, congratulating him on
the baby. Sends them off and heads into the inner city, wearing a human face. No one
looks twice.
Fights break out in his wake. He smells blood and panic on the air, and just shakes his head. Typical. His job is to do something to focus that energy, that violence and
drive, not to smooth things over.

[locked to family]

2005-07-30T20:48:43Z

One big, happy family.
Usually.
However, there are times the Riders, at least, have gone years or decades without
seeing each other in the flesh. And the few times arguments have occurred that weren't
easily settled, it could be longer. They always meet up again, eventually, but.

He needs to be gone, for now. Packs the few things he would want to keep permanently.
The room he's had at the Tower will, with any luck, still be here--He suspects it will. They don't offer what they mean to take away.

Leaves notes for those that would need them. Love. Wishing well. Gratitude. Concern, and reminders that they can reach him if truly needed.
Evan's never claimed not to be selfish, or jealous, he'd point out if asked. Even when
he does care for people. Others need his...capabilities, and he'd prefer to feel he's serving a purpose.

Looks out over the cliffs, and steps out into space, air rushing past him for a second. Disappears. Traveling alone, he's no need to pretend to be human.

at the Tower

2005-07-29T18:59:08Z

He's not needed.
At the house in the U.S., for now. Cerridwen can babysit, if someone needs to; to the best of his knowledge, Gray's in no physical danger. Unless he opens his mouth again, the thought occurs, and he snickers. Well, Sharan and Gwydyr will be keeping each other busy. If the man wakes up, they'll be elsewhere too.

He heads to the Realm, going to the training rooms. The werewolf/musician may join later. Evan wonders, but doesn't look in on him. The Rider shrugs. Fine with company,if anyone wants to come in, but just as fine being alone. Sorcerers aren't the only ones who find habits to run as deep as blood sometimes.

Blades, to start. Warmup drills and simple forms. He takes down a longsword from
a weapons rack.

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-07-26T09:42:00

2005-07-26T13:44:10Z

Michael: ::Smiles slightly:: Hon, your freedom is your own. The last thing I would want is for you to be held back by me. ::sly smile:: you should fly free like the beautful hawk you showed me the first time we met.
Cerridwen: Thank you. *mildly surprised, and pleased* You remember that?
Michael: My concern is that you have to keep looking after me. It is I who should be looking after you.
Cerridwen: Or, we should look after each other...
Michael: ::Sly smile:: Of course. It took me a while to work it out, with the dreamcatcher and all. But the memory is there.
Michael: A cherished memory
Cerridwen: I'm not a doormat nor martyr type, love. If I didn't want to do it, for myself AND you...*blushes* Mutual, on that score
Michael: I just....it keeps happening. I'm trying, I promise.Catches her eyes, smiling as she blushes.
Cerridwen: I know you are. This isn't something you'll get past in a few days or weeks. Give yourself time, darlin'.
Michael: Impatient as always. Wraps an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close.
Cerridwen: *smiles, and slips her arms around him*
Michael: "There are some difficult times ahead, hon. For me and those around me. I sometimes think it is hardest for those who have to watch."
Cerridwen: Ruefully, "That's not new for me. I had to learn not to interfere, that people...need to build their own strengths, face some tests on their own to a point."
Michael: "Doesn't mean it is any easier." He shook himself. "Sorry, I'm being morose." An attempt to cheer himself up. "So when's the next available time for me to finally pull that practical joke on Gwydyr?" Grin.
Cerridwen: Ah. "he should be at the Tower or somewhere else within reach in a few days.
*stops, seems to listen, then laughing* Oh, dear...well, I suppose that makes sense
Michael: Narrows his eyes. "I think I need a telepathic eavesdropping device."
Cerridwen: *takes mental note*
Cerridwen: Oh-- Faith was trying to explain a few of the...more unusual family members to Willow's employee. The physician?
Michael: "Oh, Dr Kimble? I'm sure he thinks I'm nuts." he paused thinking. "Hmm, actually, come to think of it, I am." Grin.
Cerridwen: And-- well. He made a reference to compare Gwydyr to Santa Claus...seems he thinks she's pulling his leg. *blinks, then laughs*
Cerridwen: " 'We're all mad here'?"
Michael: Smiling. "Hopefully a good kind of mad."

"Oh and of course, I'm definitely nuts for you, dearie." Wicked grin.
Cerridwen: *mischievous smile*
Michael: "Which reminds me. I believe we didn't finish our conversation regarding the Imfamous Tickle Torture."
Cerridwen: Hmm...well, no... *pounces*
Michael: "Ack!" Giggles, his arms suddenly full of cackling Cerri.
Cerridwen: *tickles his ribs*
Michael: Falls over backwards, dragging her with him.
Cerridwen: *lands next to him, and renews the Tickle Torture*
Michael: "H-hey!" Still cackling. "I th-thought I was the instigator of this one." Wriggling madly under her ministrations.
Cerridwen: "guess again"
Michael: "Shoulda known better."
Cerridwen: *winks *
Michael: ::blinks:: Untangles himself from Cerri, grabs her leg and pulls off her shoe, then her sock. "Think again, dearie." Holding her firmly, he ran his fingers up and down the sole of her foot, grinning.
Cerridwen: Aaah! *bats at his hand*
Michael: "uh uh uh, I gotcha this time, honey-buns." Tickle, tickle, tickle.
Cerridwen: *rolls over and half-sits up, catching his shirt*
Michael: Still holding on to her foot, looking at her, eyebrow raised. "And what do you think you're going to do with that?" Smirk.
Cerridwen: *yanks, pulling him off balance still laughing*
Michael: Falls sideways, struggling to hold on to her foot without hurting her. "I'm gonna win, I'm so gonna win."
Cerridwen: HA!
Cerridwen: *tickling his ribs and across his stomach*
Michael: "H-Hey! Okay, that's it." he let go of her foot and stumbling into a crouch, flipped her onto his shoulder. "Ah-ha, I have you now!"
Cerridwen: *vanishes in a puff of smoke*
Cerridwen: *smoke smells of cookie dough, just to be silly*
Michael: Coughs in puff of smoke, eyes watering. "No fair!"
Cerridwen: *reappears behind him, sneaking up*
Michael: Not noticing. Vehemently. "That's it. I'm speaking to Sam. I'm gonna get me a teleportation beam me up Scotty device. I am, I am!"
Cerridwen: *pats him on the back, tackle-hugs*
Michael: "Oomph!"

Cerridwen: *wicked laugh*

Michael: "I'm surrounded by fireflies."
Michael: "Flickering in the wind"
Michael: "Dipping here, darting there."

Cerridwen: …so come and dance with us
Cerridwen: if you've the heart to dare"

Michael: his eyes sparkled.....he held out a hand. "Dance with me?"

Cerridwen: *takes his hand in hers*

Michael: He pulled her gently to him, spinning her into his arms. Catching himself and spinning with her. Spinning, spinning, he levitated in a double helix, spiraling up, up, up.

Cerridwen: *delighted laugh, as they rose, following the pattern,amazed, and proud of him*

Michael: smiling he spun her out the length of his arm, holding her fingers tightly, before spinning himself towards her. he stopped mere inches in front of her face. An alluring smile, he gently kissed her, before, spinning back out.

Cerridwen: She kissed him back, softly then let him go, gliding on the air, dancing as easily as on solid ground
Michael: He spun to a stop, floating easily, watching her, one knee bent.
Cerridwen: *her hair flickered into her eyes, she pushed it away impatiently, moving to a rhythm; came over to him, smiling, offered her arm*
Michael: Accepting, he flipped in midair, limbs fanning out, and landed upright beside her.

Cerridwen : She reached out with her other hand, weaving sunlight and cloud around and below them, a pattern. Smiled at him approvingly, putting her arm around his shoulders
Michael: His eyes widened. "Beautiful."
Cerridwen: "Suits you then. Did you learn on your own, Michael?" Impressed.

Michael: "Uh, no. The Lady showed me." he smiled. "Threw me out a Tower window."
Cerridwen: *starts to laugh* My. I wonder if she took pictures?
Michael: "No. She...she was unhappy at the time. Sam was...well, you know." She had to, Gwydyr did. Didn't she?
Cerridwen: I know. *nods*
Cerridwen: Tadc and Gwydyr were with him. I looked in on them at one point--but they seemed to be managing
Michael: "I stumbled across the Lady, shortly after their...altercation." he paused a moment. "They love each other so much." Swallow. "That it hurts."
Cerridwen: No holding back. So when one falls, the other bleeds
Michael: "Yes."
Cerridwen: "They'll be all right. Eventually."
Michael: "If they aren't, we'll just have to send someone in to clarify things for them." Smile. "I'm not the only person who is slow on the uptake around here."
Cerridwen: "Oh?"
Cerridwen: Wry smile. "Good point."
Michael: "Sam...Sam is an anachronism in his own mind. sometimes I wonder if he truly knows who he is and how much he is valued."
Cerridwen: Sadly, "No, I don't think he does. Or, rather, he doesn't believe. Doesn't think he deserves it."
Michael: Michael turned in place, his stance firm. "I believe the value of worth isn't in the knowing, but in the telling. And if I have to tell him until my tongue falls out, I will."
Cerridwen: *smiles* Let's hope it doesn't come to that.
Michael: He grinned. "Guess not. Though then you wouldn't have to listen to my incessant questions anymore."
Cerridwen: Oh, it'd grow back, *absently* and then you'd probably start writing everything...
Michael: He chuckled. "I can't say that you'd get rid of me too easily."
Cerridwen: Who'd want to?
Michael: Arched eyebrow. "I dunno. Ya might get sick of me."
Cerridwen: "Or you might tire of us." Half shrugs.
Michael: "Yeah right."
Cerridwen: "but I don't see that first one happening."
Michael: He smiled, reaching up to brush her hair away from her face.
Cerridwen: Smiles back, watching him thoughtfully, one hand on his arm*
Michael: Slight frown. "Penny for your thoughts?"
Cerridwen: i don't think Sam's the only one who underrates himself sometimes.
Michael: "Oh?"
Cerridwen: Yes. *looking at him pointedly*
Michael: "Oh."
Cerridwen: But are you still happy, being here?
Michael: he frowned again. "Happy? Here in the Realm? With you? Of course." Not quite sure what she meant.
Cerridwen: "Both."
Cerridwen: Smiling at the "of course."
Michael: He tilted his head at her. "I'm in the Realm at the moment because I have to be. I love my family, and I am grateful for their hospitality. Ultimately though, this is not my home, and once I can, I will go home." He smiled, reaching up again to stroke her hair. "Of course, the definition of 'home' is dependent on several factors."
Cerridwen: "Yes, I understand." Quietly. "Though 'home' doesn't have to mean only one location."
Michael: He continued to brush her hair gently with his fingertips. "I never said anything about a location."
Cerridwen: She turned her head to look him in the eyes. "No. But it helps to have something...definite. That's your own."
Cerridwen: "And yes, I know home doesn't mean much without family."
Michael: he swallowed. "I do and I have."
Cerridwen: *hugs him, laying a hand on his hair*

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-07-25T19:02:00

2005-07-25T23:07:15Z

She catches amusement from Gwydyr at her near abduction of Michael, before he withdraws, to let them be alone. Or as alone as one can get in a city this size.
No one looks their way as they pop in. Long practice at being unseen comes in
useful.
She smiles at Michael. "Food first, or do you want to continue arguing? Work up
an appetite?" A challenging note in her tone of voice, but laced with humor as well
as concern.

bloodofthehunt @ 2005-07-13T16:44:00

2005-07-13T21:02:37Z

Meh.
I'd rather one whack with a pan than trying to rake up some of this old stuff, but with everyone asking questions, She says we should let the history be set down.
My Aspect being war, you'd think most of my past exploits would be based on that.II admit, quite a few are, but that's not all it is. Each of us has our main...discipline, but there's other skills or capabilities we've picked up.
I'll write. Just--don't expect talk bout the 'start of creation' or times that far back.

When I...angered our former Overlord, he made sure I wouldn't have those experiences
left to recall. Or a lot else.
You'd think after so long, hate would cool. It doesn't, not always. 'S why we tend to keep to ourselves, or did. None of us wanted to put outside friends or acquaintances at that sort of risk, either. There were those powerful enough that he wouldn't have tried it, but they weren't common.

I was at almost every major war in the last thousand years. For those I didn't take an active part in, if I was bound Asleep, I was aware, so I remember.
No, I don't consider the current US/Iraq conflict in that light. Though if the U.S. seems to be developing empire-building notions...Mm. We'll see.

Hell, take your pick. I hadn't realized how much I remember of those times.
Laughs, flash of distant communication. No, I stayed clear of Ireland, hon,other deities or Powers were overseeing there. I do know the Morrigan, as she was one of the 'uncommon' people I mentioned, she and Lugh, but they wouldn't have appreciated my "help."
Europe?
As I said, nearly all of them. Okay. I'll write out that story later.
'Scuse me, someone's calling. I think I'd better answer, it's one of those that knows
the Four personally, and she sounds rather worried.

But soon.

Huh.[locked to family or those that have met the Arcana]--Tadc's answer

2005-07-08T05:07:51Z

Suppose it's only fair that if my big sister and brother have to answer this, I take a shot at it. Maybe that'll make certain people stop either A)glaring at me when they think I don't notice or B)trying to hook me up with a (cute, I admit, but STRANGE)person we met lately. I can find my own partners, thanks.

"What do you look for in a romantic partner?"

Humanoid--No, I'm not being facetious. Try it sometime. Fill out a personal ad and don't, for example, specify that you want only people close to your own age, or only males, or only females if that's your preferences. The devil really is in the details here. As the occasional subject of screwed-up romances and blind dates, I can tell you it is.

I love women, never made any bones about that. Nor is it only...well.
I don't lie, don't make promises. I treat 'em nicely, unless that isn't what they want. Someone who's on the same page with me, that understands "now" doesn't mean forever, but can be happy about it without 'settling'.
Blond, red, brunette, black, I'm not picky. Though I like someone who's graceful, who smiles a lot, and tall enough to look me straight in the eyes.

Usually, I want someone who has some sass. I mean, please, if I want quiet and safe I'll buy a box of those vanilla cookies and some American beer and leave it at that. Someone who laughs, who has their own ideas and own thing going, not someone who's going to hang off me like a wet noodle.

Don't cling to me. I'm not a safety net, ladies and gentlemen. If you're afraid of sex or trying new and weird experiences, or getting in your s.o.'s face when you think he's full of it, you don't want me, not for long.

grrrrr

2005-07-08T04:23:00Z

Allrightallrightallright!
I'm going to get you for this, big brother. You have to sleep sometime, and
I'll be waiting . Amused, if also slightly irritated.

"What do you look for in a romantic partner?"

Unlike Gwydyr, I didn't concern myself first of all with anyone else's whims or building alliances. What I was, meant I had enough to offer without playing games, arrogant as that may make me sound, once I was closer to 'adult'.

I looked, first of all, for courage, and yes, caring. Beauty fades, so does youth. For someone who looked beneath the surface. I've rarely been drawn to other immortals,
for some reason. That's--I don't analyze it. It's simply how things are, how I am.

Intelligence. Wisdom(no, they are not the same thing, and stop *rolling* your eyes, Evan, I mean it.)The strength to bend, not break. Joy in simply being alive, in family. Honesty, if not strict 'commitment' by conventional definitions. When you love someone whose lifespan or experiences can't match yours--
sometimes you may have to choose to let them go, or to take different paths for a while. Not always, but you have to allow them that choice if they want it.

So I suppose what would have to matter most to me is someone capable of understanding
that love isn't conditional, isn't limited, even for Death.

Right now? I'm not 'still' looking...

The Dreaming

2005-06-16T05:18:18Z

[locked to family]

Fuck. No, no, no...
Keep it together, Tadc.

Can't. Gods and darkness, it hurts--Like having a limb torn away.Empty. World's too
much to hold/isn't enough, it still isn't. Is this...what he went through, when Evan, when War--?
He blocked us from sensing the worst of it, when he realized Shaitan wouldn't
relent, last time.
Cerridwen couldn't hold him. She tried. So much damage, fighting the Sidhe, magic
bleeding over from even friendly contact, and then taking on other immortals--
too
fucking
much. And he didn't know to reach for us, borrow enough strength to heal. Had to stay barriered. We finally got a motherfucking clue, but too late.

Huddles in on himself. A room in a city somewhere, could be New York, could be not.
Blood paints the wall across from him. Shattered glass and steel everywhere. He doesn't remember what he did, exactly, when the bond among the Four tore, bled and ripped apart. He doesn't care. Doesn't want to think, not now.
He shuts his eyes, the weak, lessened sense of his brother, across the fragile thread
all he wants to feel. The only comfort available, for however long they have to go on.
Buries his face in his hands, shaking, tears burn down his face in icy silence.

'shore leave' plans

2005-06-09T13:56:15Z

She'd thought over a number of possible destinations. While she could be safe almost
anywhere she went, with Michael accompanying her, she wanted someplace more peaceful,
if not necessarily isolated.
Tadc and Evan caught her poring over a map. Her youngest brother laughed softly.
"I don't think you have to worry about getting lost. Pick somewhere that'll be
different enough for exploration, but not so far off that you have to spend all your
time translating or explaining customs."

"H'm. Actually I'd thought of asking someone for a 'universal translator', for him,
if such a thing exists. We might visit more than one place."

Evan mulled that over. "Gadget, or something spellcrafted? We could ask if someone
has that available. Shouldn't be that difficult to contrive something."

Tadc scrutinized her. "I don't think you're all that worried about accessories,
sis. What?"

"He hasn't...asked very many questions. I think he's trying to respect our privacy.
But as this is going--he needs to know who I am, besides Cerridwen, sister-Arcana."

"Yes. He should, anyway. I think he can handle it. Do you want one of us to talk to
him?"

"No, I will. But thank you."

Tadc kissed her cheek. " 'S what I'm here for. So where are you two going?"

Cerridwen shook her head.

"What, not even a hint?"

She laughed. "It's a surprise. For him,too."

She finalized most of her arrangements, and packed a few things to take with her.
Almost done. She'd go over to Michael's new house shortly, once her business at the
Tower and elsewhere was temporarily done.

reversion, anyone?

2005-05-29T09:31:10Z

[locked to the Arcana]
Great.

Gwydyr's still on assignment. As in, he has no fucking memory of the fact that me, Cerra, and Tadc are in the United States, 'on the job.' I understand why he did it. It's going to be hard enough to fool Fuamnach.
It's made our work difficult. We have to avoid running into him. The memory blocks won't hold up if he meets us, or other family members. Or if they did, he'd likely misread the situation.
The thing is, that means minimal use of...influence isn't exactly the right word.It's hard to explain. But a lot of his work is in areas that'd be war zones, or where there are frequent deaths.

He's turned plagues loose in sites where I have to be in the field. Cerra's helping me speed things up. End certain scenarios.
I'm too damn tired and busy to make sense. Cerra's left for the Realm. Be there myself shortly. Apologies.[/end lock]

Hey, Michael.
I haven't seen you around lately. Is everything okay? Was hoping we could get together
soon.
Sis may kick my ass for saying it, but I know she's missed you too. --See you at the
Tree, maybe?

Ar Ramadi

2005-05-24T23:05:42Z

He's been busy. Evan and he keep finding more to do here.
He's vaguely amused by how indignant the American troops sound when he catches a word here and there about 'insurrection.' Walks through Baghdad and An Najaf, nothing to see, just another man scurrying along with the masses.
A woman wearing a veil pauses, looks at him with dark eyes narrowed to slits. He notes the dim glow rising off her skin that comes from someone who'd taken up with one of the Marid. They burn. Always bright and hungry, but sweet to touch if not hold. Not a visible mark to any but other immortals, and even they might recognize
it. Iblis kept his children on a short leash. He notices a faint roundness at her waist and caution in her posture, and wonders if the child will have her husband's eyes, or his father's, clawing its way out of her three months hence.
Shrugs. Que sera, sera.
Emotions, hungers, flesh and blood. Waves of anger/fear/gnawing hunger/pain wash over him as he stands in a deserted patch of ground south of An Najaf. Listens, looks for where to push harder, where to pull away and let the humans survive. This time. Kneeling, he takes up a handful of loose yellow sand, lets it trickle through a
clenched fist.

"To see a world in a grain of sand and heaven in a wild flower, Hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour." Softly, the words barely audible.
"Wonder what he'd have thought of us."

vigil

2005-05-19T18:31:32Z

She's been doing what she can for the Eldest, as well as her own duties. Her brother had asked her to oversee some of his charges, while he was 'on assignment'. The nature of that mission had worried her, but she'd seen few better alternatives. The Sidhe appeared to be a little too wary of her. A more personal, subtle approach, as opposed to open confrontation, seems a better tactic.
Cerridwen understood, but that doesn't mean she's pleased.
Worse was feeling his rage sink its teeth into someone who should have been safe. She'd been on the verge of physically dragging him away from O'Connell by the scruff of the neck, and damned to what that might do to his 'cover story'. Luckily it didn't come to that.

She turns away, leaves him to the Sorcerer and the Phantom Queen. There's a spot north of Moscow, cold and rocky, deserted except for a few wild animals and trees.
Sits, half leans against a tree trunk. The waters of a nearby creek turn dark.Flickering
images play across the surface, as she stares, thoughts quite some distance away.