Abbey Infirmary

Derache saunters/walks into the infirm, glances around, and alights blue eyes on the Jarsune and Amethyst. Obviously, he isn't happy that there are others, but smiles anyway. "Um, is this the medical area?"

Jarsune smiles faintly, then peers toward Derache. "Oac."

Amethyst's eyes turn toward Derache, "Yes. Do you need any help..?"

"Oac?" Visc cocks his head at Jarsune, then looks at Ame. "Er, we were thinking mayhap there might be a surgical knife to be had?"

Amethyst says, "...What for?"

Derache seems a bit fidgety, before lifting his right arm and showing the marble in his wrist. "We were...going to..." He shrugs. "Um."

"Yes," Jarsune says, then looks at the fox with narrow eyed suspicion.

Derache sighs. "We wished to cut it...out?" He flicks his blue eyes about, very fidgety.

Amethyst asks, "How in the world did it get there?"

Derache rubs his arm a bit. "Oh, well....that's not truly thy business, madame."

Jarsune says, "Yes it is."

Amethyst says, "In my infirmary it is. I'm a healer here."

Derache looks at Jarsune. "Um, very well. Twas torture, if you must know." He chuckles. "Uh, m-maybe we should leave it in."

Nagia arrives from the Middle Dormitory..

Nagia has arrived.

Amethyst asks, "Leave it in? It can't be very good for you."

Jarsune quirks her ears. "That's not how you torture someone."

Derache smiles sheepishly. "Per-perhaps not, but twas set there many seasons ago. We are mistaken. We shall leave it in."

Amethyst says, "That's a bad idea."

Derache rubs the back of his head, still smiling lightly. "Oh, but some of us do not agree..."

Nagia walks past the infirmary from the direction of the hallway, before backstepping, and glancing in. He gives an abrupt turn, and the wide rims of his hat are flicked up to cease obscuring his eyes. "Ahoy! What have we in here?"

Amethyst says, "..Who's with you..?"

Amethyst exclaims, "Hi, Naggy!"

Jarsune continues to eye Derache suspiciously. "Ra tuach'd cuiht nekrd."

Amethyst says, "He has a marble in his wrist, and he won't let me get it out."

Derache cocks his head, trying to avoid Ameythyst's question. "Hello, sir squirrel. Ahoy, rather." He smiles.

Amethyst stands up, heading toward the desk, "Have a seat. I need to take a look at it."

Nagia raises a brow. "A marble, y'say? How'd that come about? Spot o' gamblin' gone horribly wrong?"

Jarsune says, "He says it was torture."

Derache scratches at his head a bit, then looks at Jarsune. Her comment gets a belated look, before pulling up a chair. "Uh, well, torture is such a...an accurate word." Smile.

Nagia says, "That's.. odd, to say the least."

Amethyst pulls a little knife from the desk drawer, as well as a roll of bandages. She then heads toward the recovery room, "I'll be right back.."

Jarsune asks, "Nagia, yna oui pico? Amethyst wanted me to ask you something."

Derache looks at the knife briefly, then back at Nagia. "Um, nice hat..." His tail flicks nervously.

Nagia gives Jarsune a confused look. "Say who did what now?" He glances to Derache, and gives half a grin. "Thanks, lad."

Jarsune repeats, "I need to ask you something."

Nagia says, "Oh. Oh! Okay. No problem, I've got time."

Derache gives him a questioning look. "Lad?....But...We are older than thee." Nagia shrugs, giving a short chuckle. "Sorry, it's a habit."

Jarsune rubs her paws for a moment. "I'm going on a quest to find Mother's killer. And I'm also going to the sea caves to bring back a present for the Abbey."

Derache looks at Jarsune as she speaks. "Revenge...tis such a trivial thing," he murmurs sadly.

Amethyst returns, carrying a flask and a bowl with a poultice in it, as well as the previously gathered items. She heads toward Derache, to set all but the knife down beside him, "Now, lemme see that wrist."

Nagia errs. "Oh... really now. Well I'm sure that's...wise. Though I'm havin' trouble seein' how. Care to elaborate on yer plan?"

Derache holds up a palm, as if to say One moment. "Sir squirrel, a moment." He clears his throat. "If we become angry, might you please...refrain me from becoming violent?"

Jarsune gives Derache a slow, measured look, but one filled to the absolute brim with sudden, boiling fury. For the moment, she doesn't answer Nagia.

"Hmmm?" Visc gives Jarsune a curious look. "N-none of our business, miss."

Nagia glances to Derache, raising a brow. "Well, I suppose. That's my job. But if you're asking what I -THINK- you're asking, then the answer is 'No, you're crazy, I refuse to kill you.'"

"Kill? No, restrain me." Visc smiles a bit.

Jarsune says carefully, "Then don't make stupid remarks about things that are none of your business."

Derache, eyes flickering a brief red, frowns slightly. "We speak from experience."

Amethyst asks, "Why don't we tie you down first?"

Derache glances up at Amethyst and nods fervently. "Yes, yes, impeccable idea."

Jarsune says, "No you don't. You haven't had my experience."

Derache holds up a paw to the others and looks at Jarsune. "And how might you know?"

Amethyst says, "Lyms ouincamv. Huf."

Amethyst says, "Go get some rope, Jarsune."

Jarsune says, "Because you aren't me."

Amethyst says, "/Jarsune/."

Derache waves a paw at the others. "No, no, we wish to speak to her."

Nagia exclaims, "Oi! Less arguin', and more with the making-of-the-ouchies-feel-better."

Jarsune looks at Amethyst and flicks her ears back. "Frana'c dra nuba?"

Amethyst says, "Gatehouse, I think."

Jarsune turns and moves swiftly toward the door.

Nagia says, "I'll go with ye. You can explain this to me while we walk." Nagia follows Jarsune, tilting his hat down over his eyes.

Derache sighs a bit sadly. "Very...well." He sighs again. "Good advice is lost on those that art strong-willed."

Amethyst says, "You can hush, too, Sir."

Jarsune gives a start, looking angry. Instead of replying, however, she leans over to Nagia and whispers.

Derache smiles meekly. "Understood."

Amethyst says, "Thank you."

Nagia nods. "Alright, but we need to talk later."

Amethyst says, "Now, how long ago did you get that marble..?"

Jarsune says, "We do." Jarsune scoots out the door, and down the stairs. Jarsune descends the stairs to the open field. Jarsune has left.

Derache clears his throat and looks at the marble. His other arm, the left, doesn't move. "Um, nigh ten seasons, good mouse."

Nagia looks at Derache, scratching his nose. "Uoah?"

Amethyst says, "Why didn't you get out sooner...?"

Derache lets his paw wave a little. "Yes, now there is a question." The marble glints a bit. "Um, Scindo said it should stay."

Amethyst asks, "Why?"

Derache sighs. "Very well, we lied." He rubs his head with his right paw. "Scindo...had it put in, as a reminder..." He doesn't elaborate.

Amethyst asks, "Who's Scindo? And a reminder of what?"

Nagia says, "Aye, I'm more concerned with this Scindo fella', and what business he has stickin' things in other beasts."

"Scindo is Scindo," murmurs Derache/Viscfletus. "We wanted him out, but he had the marble put in so that we would remember him." "That marten, Atma, said he would help us." Visc smiles a bit.

Amethyst asks, "Where's Scindo now?"

Derache says, "He is not happy, so he is hiding for now."

Derache holds out his right paw to Amethyst. "Perhaps ye might look at it? Tell us if it is easily removed?"

Amethyst asks, "No idea where he is?"

Derache nods a bit. "We know where he is. He is very close." He furrows his brow. "Ye do not wish to meet him."

Amethyst glances toward the wrist with a furrowed brow, "...I can get it out, I think. I'm surprised you haven't lost your arm to an infection, though."

Derache smiles. "We heal quickly...Very quickly." Derache clicks his tongue a bit. "Um, where is the marten?"

Amethyst asks, "Jarsune? With the rope?" Amethyst asks, "Or Atma?"

Derache nods a bit. “The vengeful one."

As if on cue, Jarsune ascends the stairs again, a coil of rope over one shoulder. "Oh, there she is," Visc smiles at Jarsune.

Jarsune frowns in return.

Amethyst says, "Help me tie him to the chair, please, Jarsune."

Derache cocks his head. "Thy displeasure is quite...unnerving, miss."

Jarsune says, "You're annoying. And crazy."

Derache suddenly throws his head up, eyes melting into red, before blue comes back up. "Be...be sure to secure my left arm as well."

Jarsune walks over to Amethyst and offers her one end of the rope.

Amethyst takes it, then begins carefully securing his marbled arm to the armsrest.

Derache watches her work. "Um, m-might ye please...numb the area somehow?"

Jarsune starts in on the other arm. "We could hit you?" she offers cheerfully.

The strange fox takes the jibe in stride and nods. "What-whatever works, miss."

Amethyst says, "..I could give you something to bite on.."

Derache shakes his head and sighs. As his right arm is secure, he motions at a lump in his shirt. "Could ye bring out our pipe?"

Nagia hrms. "Seems a little overly elaborate t'me..."

Amethyst asks, "What do you mean, Naggy?"

Derache looks at Nagia. "Wha-what does?"

Nagia says, "This whole thing. Just what're you up to, anyway?"

Jarsune asks, "How are you going to smoke if you can't move your arms?"

Amethyst grins at Nagia, "We just wanted an excuse to tie him up."

Derache shakes his head. "We are not up to anything, sir squirrel. And we don't need to smoke the pipe...Just chew on the stem."

Derache looks up. "You're not going to help me?"

Amethyst finishes, reaching for Jarsune's piece to do the final knot. Amethyst says, "Of course not. We're going to just sit here and laugh at you." Amethyst says, "...Yeah, I'm gonna help. I was kidding."

Derache smiles nervously, teeth chattering a bit in apprehension of the surgery. "Just please hurry before Scindo decides to step in."

Amethyst says, "...About where is he hiding, that you're afraid of him coming dashing in any second?"

Derache suddenly growls, eyes turning brownish-black. "Wot's goin' on 'ere?" He glances at the marbled hand. Gritting his teeth, he snarls. "Untie me, mouse. I won't have that idiot tryin' ta get it out again."

Nagia looks up at the door. "You mean this Scindo fella' is here? In the abbey?" He tugs on his jacket. "Well, don't you worry none."

Derache looks at the squirrel and grins maniacally. "Ya called, squirrel?"

Amethyst stares blankly at Derache, "..."

Nagia glances down at Derache, raising a brow. "Eh?"

Jarsune hisses. "Rakshasa."

Derache struggles a bit in the chair. "Let me outta this."

Nagia asks, "Are you ill, lad? Been indoors for too long?"

Jarsune rears back, as if Derache suddenly became hot to the touch.

Derache snarls a bit. "Look, I'll explain this if'n ya untie me."

Amethyst looks toward Jarsune, "You think so? For real?"

Nagia twists his muzzle. "...Do we let 'im loose, or do we take it out?"

Amethyst says, "Take it out, of course."

Jarsune nods her head vigorously. "Take it out. Don't let him loose."

"You're not going to take it OUT!" Scindo stands bent, the chair still hanging off of his wrists.

Jarsune leaps at Derache's lap, her paws grasping for the back of the chair. Derache grunts a bit in surprise as he falls back into the chair, subsequently knocking it backwards.

Amethyst asks, "Hey, Nagia, can you keep the chair put, please?"

Derache grunts as the chair lands, his footpaws sticking out into the air. "Ah, come on. Leave me alone. I ain't done nothin' to ya."

Jarsune remains sitting practically on Derache's chest, hissing into his face.

Derache hisses right back. "Yer annoyin' me. Gerroff."

Nagia moves around to Derache's head, and puts one paw against the chair, the other against his chin. "Alright then, just hold still." He clamps his paw up against Derache's jaw, in an attempt to subdue him, while keeping the chair from moving. His strength is moderate, giving notion that he's extremely fit for his species.

Amethyst moves toward Derache with the knife, bending down over the wrist to begin carefully slicing through the skin over the marble.

Derache snarls loudly before kicking at Amethyst paw with his knee. "Gerroff!" Amethyst pulls the knife back a little, "Jarsune, can you sit on that leg, please?"

Nagia says, "Jarsune, get his legs. And you! Stop struggling, or I'll get liberal about keeping you submissive. And don't kick at a doctor with a knife, it might slip and you'll do yerself more damage. Are you daft, boy?"

Jarsune pauses, remaining on Derache's chest for a moment, before both of her paws reach out toward his muzzle. She clamps one paw heavily over his nostrils, and the other focuses on keeping the muzzle itself shut. "One moment."

Derache suddenly tries to stand again. But as Jarsune is still on him, all he manages to struggle. "Aye, I'm daft. It's why they wanna get rid a me." Derache is shut up by the paw. "Mmmmff."

Jarsune presses the paw clapped over his nostrils down, so as to cut off any air getting in that way.

Derache snorts, breathing harshly. He suddenly tears open his maw and inhales greatly. "Ya tryin' ta kill me?"

Amethyst asks, "Fryd yna oui tuehk?"

Jarsune says, "I'm putting you out."

Derache throws his head to butt Jarsune. "NO! Gerroff!"

Amethyst says, "Use some bandages to wrap around his muzzle if you need it."

Jarsune says, "Ev oui cdub dras vnus pnaydrehk vun y sehida un cu, drao bycc uid."

Nagia exclaims, "HOI! What're you doin'? Tryin' to suffocate him? Let me in on it."

Jarsune responds by leaning her weight forward, onto her clapped paws. "Hold his mouth shut! He'll pass out in a minute."

Nagia looks uneasy, but he slides his paw from his jaw to his muzzle.

Derache glares at the squirrel. "No, nononono. Gerroff and leave me be." He shakes his head violently, throwing off the marten's paws. Then, Nagia pitches in. His eyes roll violently, dark and harsh.

Amethyst moves to quietly begin cutting out the marble again.

The fox's eyes roll again and again, turning into blue. The blue ones look frightened as they cloud over.

Jarsune scowls. She chops swiftly with her paw at the neck space just below Derache's chin.

Nagia flinches visibly at the sight. "Whoo... swordsmanship NEVER bothered me as much as surgery did."

Amethyst quite easily gets the skin cut, then moves to delicately pull grasp the marble and lift it out.

Derache jerks a bit as the blow lands, but he barely feels it. The fox apparently has strong neck muscles. "Mmmff..mm.....mmnggg..mf."

The marble is much larger than it had originally appeared. The other end is pointed slightly, possibly for easier application. It leaves a gaping hole.

Jarsune exclaims, "Rakshasa! Mayja res ymuha!"

Amethyst slips it into her pocket. She then reaches for the flask of water and a rag, in order to begin cleaning up the wound, "I'm /very/ surprised he didn't lose the paw to an infection."

Derache rolls his head a bit, waves of nausea rolling through his body as he sees dark stars. His eyes cloud as he passes out, coughing within his throat.

Jarsune jumps abruptly off of the fox, and nods to Nagia.

Amethyst says, "I wonder where that new novice went. He could be here learning.."

Nagia slowly steps back

Amethyst asks, "Jarsune, could you get me a needle and thread, please?"

Jarsune asks, "Where?"

Der's head lolls to the side, leaking tears through lightly shut eyes. His face is expressionless in the confines of merciful dark.

Amethyst says, "In the desk drawer."

Jarsune moves swiftly toward the desk to retrieve the objects, and then brings them back to Amethyst.

Amethyst takes them, "Thanks." And then, she quite quickly begins stitching up the hole.

A bit of blood trickles out of the corner of Der's mouth. He'd probably bitten into his tongue during the surgery. Shoulda given him that pipe.

Amethyst asks, "You really think it's a rakshasa? The last time those were mentioned was when Lan got real sick, and it turned out to not really be one."

Jarsune says, "It sounds like one. But Grandmother would know for sure."

Amethyst asks, "What do we do with him 'til then?"

Jarsune says, "I don't know..."

Amethyst says, "...What do you think, Naggy?"

Derache gurgles a bit as he awakes, blood having pooled in the back of his throat. He coughs, shooting a misty blood/saliva mixture into the air. Groaning, the strange fox flickers his eyes open. They're grey. "Ugh..."

Nagia shrugs his shoulders. "Ain't ever heard of it. I heard Kes talk about one, I hear talk of Lan, but I never seen 'em."

Jarsune says, "They make creatures go mad and hurt other beasts."

Nagia says, "Aah. Off-shore legends, then?"

Tugging at the restraints, Der coughs again. Looking down at the stitched hole, he shakes his head. "Off-shore....legends?"

Jarsune frowns faintly, but says, "Clan lore. The Rakshasa are enemies of the Aksha. They get into a beast and make him go mad. Sometimes they pretend to be aksha too, like Merdez's Narsalis."

"N-Narsalis?" Derache is thoroughly confused. "Why do we speak of Merdez?"

Nagia says, "I think I've met one before, then. Catch me sometime, and I'll tell you a story about a sea rat that nearly took my life. Scariest thing you ever did hear."

Jarsune nods, then looks back down at Derache, frowning.

Derache coughs again, blood draining out of his mouth. "May I be given some extent of decency? Could someone wipe my mouth?"

Nagia says, "Alright, Amethyst, take care of 'im."

Derache coughs again, grey eyes listless and bored. "Well?"

Amethyst reaches up with a corner of the rag to carefully wipe away the blood, "Fa'mm ryja du gaab res cusabmyla dra udranc lyh'd kad yd res. Yht fa'mm ryja du gaab xiead ypuid ed, un drana'c kuehk du pa y druicyht ibcad fynneunc."

Derache frowns. "Yes, all that gibberish is very well and nice." He looks at his arm. "Wonderful job. My thanks."

Nagia looks confused.

Derache notices the confused Nagia. "What?"

Nagia says, "I have..absolutely no idea what she's saying."

Amethyst says, "E'mm cbayg fedr Josiah yht Sunny ypuid drec. Damm ouin knyhtsudran, pid hu uha amca."

Atma climbs the stairs from the main yard of the abbey. Atma has arrived.

Amethyst looks toward Nagia, "I want to speak to Sunny and Josiah about this, but I don't want the whole Abbey knowing before then."

Derache grunts a bit, struggling against the restraints, grey eyes flicking this way and that. "Might I be released now? If the surgery is done, of course."

Jarsune looks thoughtful, nodding a few times at Amethyst's words. "Ra'c naymmo nita."

Nagia looks disturbed. "...That...really isn't a good course of action to be taking, Amethyst."

Amethyst says, "What should we do, then..?"

"Please release me. Scindo is subdued." Der grunts a bit. "This is rather inhospitable."

Amethyst says, "If he has a rakshasa.."

Derache lifts a brow. "Ra...kshasa?"

A long, heavy sigh comes from the door to the open grounds. One would come to find Atma leaning against the door, with his arms crossed, viewing the events with a jaded expression.

Nagia says, "It's not like he's a monster. What sense is there in hiding him like some black mark on our record?"

Derache looks up at Atma. "Could you tell them to untie me?" Grey eyes stare a bit before he adds a, "Please?"

Amethyst says, "Well. I don't know what all the warriors would do.."

Derache grunts a bit. "I do not enjoy being ignored."

Jarsune says, "If he has a Rakshasa, he's not safe."

Atma says, "Alright..." His voice is quieter than normal, but still thunderous. "Amethyst. Hush." The marten leans off of the doorframe, walking across the room, and putting his paw on Derache's ropes. "Before I do, I want to know if they tied you down because you tried to attack them. If that's true, I'm throwing you outside, stab wounds pending. But if there's reasonable explanations behind this, I'm willing to be attentive.""

Nagia looks mildly uncomfortable.

Derache sighs. "Viscfletus asked to be tied down in the event of Scindo's arising. He...arose, but we were all ready secured."

Amethyst frowns slightly.

Atma says, "I see. By all logic and reason, do you believe yourself to be an immediate threat? Should he arise again, would there be an act of violence?" Jarsune looks unhappily toward Atma. "He's got a Rakshasa, Father. It talked." "No, not unless he is provoked or we die," Der grunts. "We have a manner of control over that blood mongering lunatic."

Amethyst asks, "Why can't we speak to Kev's mother first? She's here someplace."

Atma says, "Jarsune, your level of understanding on this situation is not high enough for you to be making brash decisions." He begins to untie Derache, but then stops. "...A hole has been drilled into your arm.""

Jarsune's ears flatten, and she frowns. "I understand."

Derache nods. "Yes, the mouse was kind enough to remove an eyesore that Scindo had placed into my arm."

Atma hmms... Atma says, "Jarsune, fetch your grandmother, please."

Jarsune says, "I don't know where she is."

Derache flexes his right claws a bit, wincing at the pain. "Hmmm, this will heal by tomorrow."

Amethyst says, "..It won't heal by tomorrow."

Derache blinks. "If you say so."

Jarsune tenses, the fur along her tail beginning to bristle.

Derache looks at Jarsune. "You're a right little fighter, aren't you?"

Amethyst asks, "Why /would/ it be?"

Derache sighs. "Nevermind. You would not understand."

Amethyst says, "Please try and explain, then."

Derache says, "No."

Amethyst asks, "Why?"

Derache scowls lightly. "My business. Unlike Visc, I'm not as talkative with our business."

Amethyst says, "-Nothing- heals that fast. Ever."

Derache half-smirks. "Of course."

Amethyst frowns.

"Now," Der clears his throat a bit. "Will you -please- untie me?"

Amethyst says, "No."

Derache says, "Why...not?"

Amethyst says, "Kes' grandmother is going to look at you first."

Derache grunts a bit. "I am -not- possessed, if that is what you are thinking."

Amethyst asks, "Then what are you?"

"Insane," Der mutters a bit. "I thought you would have figured it out."

Jarsune grumps. "Nita."

Derache stares at Jarsune with listless grey eyes. "Yes, nita. Whatever."

Jarsune adds, "Yht lnaabo."

Amethyst says, "Yeah.."

Derache struggles a bit. "Please let me be. I do not require an investigation but from Atma himself. He said he would help and I intend to hold him to his word."

Jarsune says, "You can stay here until he helps. You aren't going to hurt my Father."

Derache says, "I don't -intend- to, snippy marten."

Jarsune says, "That's the point."

Derache grunts. "I'm afraid I do not see your point."

Jarsune says, "You're crazy."

Jarsune says, "You don't control yourself."

Derache sniffs. "I believe I stated this fact earlier."

Amethyst says, "Kes' grandmother is going to look at you, and you're going to stay here 'til she does, and that's final. No more argument from -anyone- is going to change that."

Jarsune asks, "Then why are you confused about why we want you to stay put?" Derache sighs. "Very well." He ignores Jarsune. "Just so we are not confused, I am Derache. The blue eyed one is Viscfletus, and the dark eyed idiot is Scindo. Might I know your names?"

Amethyst says, "Amethyst."

Jarsune scowls darkly, and doesn't reply.

Derache hmms a bit, clicking his tongue. "Amethyst, hmmm? Like the mineral? I'm going to assume you dyed your hair to fit your name."

Atma says, "Actually..."

Derache looks up at Atma. "Hmm?"

Atma says, "I'm going to contact her grandmother because there's potential that she may shed some light on your situation. I'm inclined to trust her wisdom. Their word is Rakshasa, you may interpret that as severely dangerous or threatening beast. If you suffer from madness, there may be some things we can do short of killing you."

Nagia says, "Atma." Nagia scowls. "Don't talk like that."

Jarsune says, "It's true."

Derache sighs. "Well, where is said grandmother?"

Amethyst says, "We're not going to kill him, Atma. So don't indicate we might. Jarsune, can you please go find her?"

Atma begins untying Derache. "Yes, of course. There's no killing. Jarsune, do as Amethyst asks, and bring her to the gatehouse."

Nagia sighs, rubbing the ridge of his muzzle.

Amethyst says, "Atma, don't untie him yet."

Jarsune fidgets, looking extremely displeased as Atma starts untying Derache. "I don't know where she is."

Amethyst says, "Being tied up is not killing him, so he can wait."

Derache watches Atma untie his right arm...then looks up at Ame. "Oh, let him alone. My wrist is begging to be let free."

Atma says, "I have confidence in my safety, Amethyst. And should I be attacked, I'm afraid I'll have to gouge out his prismatic eyes. There won't be any problems. But I'll not have him laying here, it's uncivil."

Amethyst says, "Atma. No."

Derache frowns a bit at the reference of his eyes.

Amethyst says, "It's better to be safe than sorry. This way, we can be sure -no one- gets hurt."

Amethyst says, "Don't untie him."

Jarsune says, "Ev ra dneac du yddylg Vydran, E lyh gemm res."

Jarsune says, "And I won't be particularly sorry over it."

Nagia says, "Aye, Atma, leave him be."

Amethyst says, "Jarsune, you don't start that, either."

Derache grunts a bit. "Oh come now. I was never one to be restrained. Are you all so heartless?"

Atma sighs. "... Derache. I'm going to untie you, but I ask that you please remain seated, lest you be restrained again. Do we have an accord?"

Amethyst says, "It does not hurt for you to be tied for a few more minutes. -Atma-."

Derache half-smiles. "Indeed."

Jarsune crouches behind Atma, flexing her fingers and eyeing the fox.

Amethyst says, "I said -no-."

Nagia says, "It's just an endless stream of bad ideas, Atma. I'd rather have him tied rather than hold knives to his throat."

Amethyst says, "There's no point in untying him this second."

Atma asks, "What are you so afraid of?"

Amethyst steps forward to place her paw lightly on the knot.

Derache sighs a bit. "They are biting into my arms."

Amethyst says, "It's better not to risk violence. The ropes don't hurt him, and it will only be a little while."

Jarsune says, "If he attacks you, I'll kill him, Father. Or you'll kill him. If he stays tied up for now, they don't risk us killing him."

Derache says, "They -do- hurt."

Amethyst says, "And, I happen to know they aren't, Sir. We didn't tie them that tightly."

Derache says, "They chafe."

Jarsune wrinkles her nose. "Frehan."

Amethyst says, "Jarsune. We aren't going to kill him."

Jarsune says, "That's what I mean."

Atma glances to Jarsune. "He won't attack me. He knows better. It's in his best interest not to. Jarsune, you need to be looking for your grandmother." Atma says, "We obviously aren't getting anywhere here."

Jarsune says, "Grandmother will say the same thing." Jarsune starts to walk backwards, toward the open ground door.

Amethyst says, "Atma, we will not be untying him right now. Alright?"

Derache grunts a bit, eyes half-lidded. "I am not dangerous. I have enough control. Only under incredible duress is he released or if we are sure that he will not cause any harm."

Atma says, "I gravely disagree with that. Even prisoners are treated with civil regard. He possesses the mental fortitude to remain seated."

Atma says, "We are not barbarians."

Derache nods a bit in agreement with Atma.

Jarsune says, "Yes we are."

Atma wrinkles his nose, and gives a look of irritation at Jarsune.

"Didn't you leave?" The fox mutters at Jarsune.

Atma says, "Well -I- am not. I'd like him released."

Amethyst says, "Atma, it really isn't horrible to keep him tied up when there's the risk that he or others could be hurt if he's released. I just want Kes' grandmother to come take a look first."

Jarsune gives Derache a look. "Freho ycc."

Derache frowns a bit. "Please speak the same language."

Jarsune says, "I said you were whiny."

Derache says, "Then I shall stay whiney. I'm just working for my best interests."

Jarsune says, "That's obvious."

Derache sniffs. "Not very civil, are you, little one."

Jarsune growls. "No."

Amethyst says, "Jarsune. Find your grandmother. Now."

Derache shakes his head. "Well, that explains that."

Nagia looks at Amethyst. "If you want my opinion, we oughtta escort 'im out of the sick ward and into someplace more private, where he's less likely to harm anybeast. -THEN- we can let 'im go. I'll be with him. He won't try anything funny around me. We dealt with crazy sea rats by lockin' 'em alone in a room with our biggest crew. They don't take kind to badgers, cats n such bearin down on 'em.

Atma says, "She -IS- civil. Or she's in for a lot of trouble later."

"E tuh'd mega res yd ymm, ajah ev ra fych'd lnywo." Jarsune turns for the door, and steps out.

"It is not in my best interest to attack anyone, neither do I feel the need to. And saying such, I speak for Scindo as well." Der looks at Atma. "Oh, worry not. I've dealt with others such as her before."

Jarsune descends the stairs to the open field. Jarsune has left.

Amethyst says, "...I don't quite see how keeping him captive in a room is more civil than keeping him tied in a chair. But, you can borrow my room, if you want."

Atma looks at Derache. "You aren't my concern. I'm not raising her to be uncivil."

"I know. I'm never anyone's concern." Der smirks a bit.

Nagia says, "Actually, it gives 'im a more secure sense of freedom, being unrestricted. Lets 'em fidget and whatnot. It's more comforting."

Derache furrows his brow at Nagia. "You are not very kind, are you, squirrel?"

Amethyst says, "Okay. But if he so much as snaps at anyone, I want you to tie him back up before things get too bad."

Nagia smiles. "You'd like me better as a shipmate, rather 'n an abbey guard, I'd imagine."

Derache pulls a little at the restraints. "Fine, I'll send Visc out. He seems to be able to keep a better spirit about this. I have no patience." He blinks....Blue eyes. A smile. "You got it out?"

Atma sighs. "I apologize, Derache. These proceedings won't last long. You'll be free in a moment."

Derache blinks up at Atma. "Oh, tis me again, Atma. Visc?" He smiles. "Um, we see the surgery went...well."

Derache nods at Amethyst, smiling. "We thank thee, madame. Thy surgical expertise rid us of a terrible eyesore."

Amethyst says, "...You're welcome..."

Derache chuckles a bit before motioning with his head at the lump in his shirt. "Might we have our pipe?"

Atma clears his throat. "We're moving you. Alright?"

Derache nods a bit. "Where to?"

Derache cocks his head, blue eyes creasing in worry. "Yes. We understand. Sooo," He looks up. "Are you going to carry me?" He chuckles.

Atma smirks. "No, you're going to walk. I'm going to wait here for somebeast else, and I'll be with you shortly. Amethyst, YOU untie him and escort him."

Derache grins up at Amethyst.

Amethyst says, "..What?"

Derache moves his bound right wrist. "Nothing. We are simply very pleased that infernal thing tis out."

Atma says, "Take him to your room. Have your father escort you." Atma moves to lean against the wall. "I'll wait here."

Amethyst wrinkles her nose, but then moves to untie him, "If anyone gets hurt, Atma, I will hurt you ten times worse than whatever happened to the creature."

Derache chuckles a bit. "We truly hope you jest."

Atma says, "I'm confident in my judgment, Amethyst."

Amethyst says, "A little too much."

Nagia clears his throat. "Infighting is worse 'n bickering with this lad, isn't it..?"

Derache gives Nagia a curious look. His bound right paw moves suddenly. Wriggling his nose, he glances around. "Ummm, might anyone help me with a bit of an itch on our nose?"

Amethyst finishes the untying.

Derache wiggles his nose more. "Anyone?"

Amethyst says, "You can yourself.."

Derache lifts his arm and furiously rubs at his nose. "Ahhh." He unties his left arm himself. "Now, lead the way." He smiles kindly.

Amethyst turns to head toward the healer dormitory.

Derache walks/saunters after her.

RW Abbey: Amethyst's Quarters -------------------------------------------------------------------- This is a moderately sized room. It is completely devoid of any type of furniture or belongings, not even a bed. The floor is clean and swept. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Exits: [O]ut With: [IC] (Amethyst)'s hair is dark purple.

Amethyst steps inside, then turns to watch the other two arrive.

Derache walks in. "Oh, this is...pleasant." He nods and smiles.

Nagia steps by the door, and leans against it, tilting his hat down and dipping his head. He crosses his arms

Amethyst says, "Sorry it's not the nicest..."

Derache nods at Nagia, still smiling a bit. Then, he pulls out his pipe and shreds some tobacco between his claws. "Oh, it -is- nice. Do ye mind if we calm ourselves. It still hurts."

Amethyst's nose wrinkles for just a brief second, but then, "...Okay...You've had a long day, I'm sure.."

Derache smiles and turns around, a piece of flint in his hand, the pipe in his mouth. The sharp sound of metal hitting flint is heard. Smoke rises over his head before he turns around and grins.

Amethyst bites on her lip, "Sorry you have to wait here."

Derache chuckles. "We are not daft."

Amethyst asks, "Hm?"

Anuradha steps inside, looking somewhat weary and carrying an old bag. She's not wearing her mask, so the full extent of her scarred and nearly furless face is visible.

Derache motions at her with the pipe. "We mean, we know we must stay here." He glances at Andradha...and jumps a bit. "Oh, hello."

Atma follows in after Anuradha, closing the door gently behind him. "This is the beast, Mother. He seems to hold a conflict in his mind. Battling a Rakshasa, and an Aksha at the same time, though the Rakshasa and the Aksha alike are both incredibly mild in nature."

Derache cocks his head a bit. "My, but thy terms art most confusing."

Anuradha studies Derache carefully, from head to foot, her nostrils flaring slightly as she scents him. "--Aksha's do not invade the minds of beasts," she corrects quietly. Then to Derache, "Explain yourself."

Derache cocks his head. "Explain...myself? In what way?"

Anuradha says, "Speak."

Derache nods. "Well, we are speaking..." He gives the old marten a curious look.

Anuradha says, "Continue then. Speak whatever is on your mind."

Amethyst goes silent, simply watching.

Derache smiles. "Well, we are quite happy...We mean -I- am quite happy, because the eyesore has been removed." He motions at the marble-less arm. "We like smoke, nice pipes, and playing with children." He smiles. "We like water, and mountains. Nature, really." He pauses to puff out some smoke, watching a smoke ring rise to the ceiling. "We enjoy a bit of sport now and again. Oft we enjoy the pleasurable company of others. We enjoy discussions of literature, history, art, science, mathematics, and philosophy." More smoke rings. Derache suddenly growls as his eyes change to dark. "My turn. I like ta enjoy women. I like ta drink. I like ta watch fights. I like ta -start- fights." He looks at the pipe and scowls a bit. "Meh. I hate smokin'."

Nagia clears his throat.

Amethyst's brow furrows a little.

Derache looks at Nagia. "Wot? Ye got somethin' ta say?" He puts out the pipe, noticing the stitching job. "An' I'll be havin' that marble back, mouse."

Nagia lifts his head. "Alright... I think I got a good idea of what you are."

Derache growls a bit. "An' wot might that be, squirrel?"

Amethyst just stays silent, watching him.

Nagia steps forward, and crosses his arms, bearing down on Derache. "Now you listen here, you insolent little speck. From this point on, you need to understand that yer on -MY- ship. And that puts you under -MY- command. An' while I'm in charge, I don't want no lip, no sass, and I DEFINITELY better not see you starting up any fights, you understand me?" His voice has taken on the element of command, something fit to make sea-dogs and scalawags crumble.

Derache stares at Nagia...before chuckling cruelly. "If'n I wanted ta start a fight, I would'da done so, long time 'go. Don't get all preachy on me, ya idiot."

Nagia smirks. "You'd never make it two seconds at sea, lad."

Derache grunts a bit. "I 'ate the sea. Smell bloody nasty." Tapping his chin, he continues. "Anyway, I like other stuff, but I ain't gonna mention it in mixed company. That's 'bout it." He blinks, revealing grey eyes. They look around. "He's been making a nuisance of himself, hasn't he." Derache sighs a bit, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "I like arithmetic and designing structures. May I go?"

Nagia looks at Amethyst, and grins. "I don't think he's crazy, I think he's just insolent. Let me slap 'im around for a bit, and he'll be givin Yes Sirs in notime."

Atma sighs. "Nagia, you're full of yourself."

Derache stares at Nagia a bit. "Sir squirrel, you are no walk in the park either."

Atma says, "Sit down, and I'd recommend speaking when spoken to. This isn't Seabeast recruitment camp."

Anuradha finally stirs from her near motionless state. "When did this occur?"

Derache blinks a bit at Anuradha. "I'm...not sure. It was all so very gradual."

Anuradha asks, "Then when did you notice? And under what circumstances?"

Nagia falls silent, and leans back against the wall.

Derache sighs a bit, trying to remember. "Well, we all say different times." He rubs his forehead. "Well, I first noticed Scindo. I was in danger and he blustered from no where, slaughtering the attackers. I remember watching from a detached state what my own body was doing. And when he was done killing, he laughed." A small frown alights on his face. "As for Viscfletus, I'm almost positive he has all ways been with me. Simply more subdued, as is his nature."

Anuradha holds up her withered paw. "No," she says firmly. "There is only one of you. If there is indeed a Rakshasa within you, then there are two. Not three. This third you name is either part of you, or part of him."

Derache deepens his frown. "I am -not- possessed, madame."

Anuradha fixes Derache with an even look, and does not reply.

Derache sighs a bit, then blinks, revealing blue eyes. Visc's face creases in a somewhat worried look. "But, such would mean that I myself do not truly exist."

Anuradha says, "You exist as one or the other. You have given yourself a name, but you do not own a body. You are part of this fox, or you are part of the enemy. Which do you think this is?"

Derache fidgets a bit, before pulling out the still warm pipe and putting it in his mouth. "Ummm, We are not sure. We always thought of ourselves as kind and do not wish to be associated with Scindo. But...Derache says he is the original. I, specifically, am not sure who to believe."

Anuradha asks, "You wish no destruction? What do you wish for yourself? What do you desire to accomplish?"

Derache relights the pipe, puffing nervously, smoke trailing out of his hand. "We most certainly wish to keep our life here in this body. We wish that Scindo would leave. And we wish to accomplish freedom of a sort."

Anuradha asks, "What sort of freedom?"

Derache scratches his head. "From...the dreams." He looks at the ground, blue eyes sad and distant.

Anuradha remains calm and patient. "Explain these dreams."

Derache clears his throat a bit. "They are shared dreams. We all see them. We believe tis some of our past with some of our twisted imagination." He tries a chuckle. Fails. "We are walking down a country road, often times side by side, sometimes as one. I am always in the middle. Perhaps to keep the others from attacking each other." He puffs on his pipe a bit.

Anuradha waves her paw. "Continue."

"Then," Visc mutters, "We are no longer on the path, but above a stormy sea, watching ourselves battle the waves with knives of star fire. Scindo is slain first, then Der, then myself. We sink down into the depths, gasping for air and drowning in an ever growing sea of incarnadine waters. We are lost in the seas for an eternity...And then, we awaken."

Anuradha's eyes narrow slightly, and she nods. "Tell me of Scindo."

"Scindo?" Visc puffs at the pipe. "He is a murderous, blood hungering lunatic that would slay all if we did not hold in tightly. He complies, and is only truly lost to our grasp when powerful emotions sweep through us."

Anuradha asks, "Is this his only desire? To kill and destroy and make misery?"

Derache shakes his head. "No, he wishes to purge the world of the weak. He continually makes himself stronger when we do not pay attention and sharpens his thoughts and will. But he enjoys pain thoroughly and with a passion." A shaky looking smoke ring. "And he does not enjoy my talking of him."

Anuradha pauses for a moment, and then says, "I would speak with him."

Derache fidgets a bit. "He...he does not enjoy your company. I don't believe he wishes to talk to you."

Anuradha says, "All the more reason I wish to speak to him, then."

Derache puts out the pipe nervously, and stops moving for a moment, as if arguing in his own head. Then, blue is replaced by blackish-brown. They flash a bit. "What? I said I ain't talkin' to ya."

Anuradha asks quietly, "And why?"

Derache scowls, bearing his teeth. "Because yer gonna try and kick me out. I know ya will, ya dirty hag." He coughs a bit, a small bit of smoke coming from his throat. "Bloody idiot," he mutters swiftly. "I'm th' original. Ya can't kick me out."

Anuradha turns her head a little, so that she is looking directly into Derache's eyes. "You are a liar." This is said calmly, quietly. "Tell me more."

Derache snaps his teeth, making a clashing sound. "I ain't no liar." He scowls. "And this conversation is over, ya hag. I ain't talkin' to you know more. I oughta cut ya all up. Make ya all cry and scream."

Anuradha rocks once, from side to side. "Speak to me further."

Derache eyes her...and clamps his mouth shut. Glaring defiantly, he stares at each person in the room, dark eyes blazing with simmering heat. He suddenly grins, but doesn't say anything.

A thin, miniscule trace of a smile appears on Anuradha's scarred muzzle, and is gone in a moment. "I have been a Seer of my clan since the passing of my mother, uncounted seasons ago. I am a follower of Aksha, Scindo. I am a servant of Raven. You do not belong here."

Derache stares at Anuradha as if she were crazy. He most certainly thinks she is. "What the bloody &*%@ are ya talkin' bout, ya crazy ol' hag?"

Anuradha repeats, "You do not belong here. Why have you come?"

Derache stares at her, then at the others. "Any a ya know what she's babblin' on 'bout?" There is clearly curious confusion in his dark eyes.

Atma says, "Answer her question."

Anuradha's ears swivel forward. She does not take her gaze from Derache's face.

Derache curses darkly before turning on Anuradha. "Ya wanna know why I'm 'ere? Eh? Cause the other two idiots made me walk through those bloody gates, asking around fer work."

Anuradha says, "No. I wish to know why you are /here/. Why you have come to this body, and why you stay."

Derache shakes his head. "I don't think ya get it, ya tired ol' baggage. I've alw'ys been here. I alw'ys will be." He gives a short, barking laugh. "An' there ain't nothin' ya can do 'bout it."

Anuradha once again says nothing in reply, but continues her even, unblinking gaze.

Derache chuckles maniacally. "Now, if'n y'll let me outta here, I'll take me leave of you idiot beasts."

Again, the thin there-and-gone smile. "You will not leave this room," Anuradha says firmly. "You are the enemy of this place."

Atma says, "You, in particular. You, Scindo."

Anuradha inclines her head in silent agreement.

Derache gets into Anuradha's face. "An' yer the enemy of this body. Don't you 'ave any idea ow useless the other are at fightin? They wouldn't last at all in th' real world beyond yer precious li'l walls a quartz." He laughs harshly. "They wouldn't last without me ever. I'm their protector."

Atma lets a burst of air fly from his nostrils, and one paw shoots to grab Derache by the scruff of his shirt.

Derache moves swiftly, jerking to the side. "I ain't gonna harm no one, ya daft marten. I were makin' me point."

Anuradha does not flinch, even with Derache so close. "You are not needed. You are the enemy of this place, Scindo, and you are the enemy of those you claim to protect." She raises a paw to ward Atma off. "Tell them. They know you are the enemy. They do not need to hide behind you."

Atma lets out an uneasy breath, and backs off.

"THEY NEED ME, BLAST YOU!" A powerful roar rips from Scindo's throat. "An' you aren't gonna do anythin' about it. Not them. Not that stupid marten that tried ta best me. Not the bloody squirrel. No one." He growls low, his fangs bared. "Ye've been warned."

Anuradha regards Derache coolly. "You are endangering them. You will get them killed. This is the meaning of your dreams for you, as you are the first to die, and you cause them all to drown in a sea of blood. You know this. You know this already."

Derache cackles, licking his teeth. "Yeah, so what of it, ol' baggage? They will die in the fury of battle. They will die in honor, in strength, in blood." ‘Blood’ is drawn out, languidly, lazily.

Anuradha says, "You will die, only. Drowning. Against no foe but their own enemy who shares their mind. There is no honor, no strength in being swallowed."

Derache laughs again. "Ahhhhhhh, but you are wrong. Another shadow is hidin' out in our mind. This one is green....Oh, so very bright green. Like venom. He hasn't surfaced yet." He smirks. "But I think I'll like 'im. Our mind is never clean, you see."

Anuradha turns her head, finally breaking eye contact to look at Atma. "The enemy is here. If we cannot force him to leave, then we must kill all three of them." While she says this toward the marten, she clearly means Derache to hear it.

Derache grunts a bit, eyes widening. "Oh, come now. Ya wouldn't hurt an innocent like Visc, would'ja? Or a stoic grumbler like Derache? Yer Abbey beasts. Kind and good, right?" He scowls. "But if'n ya wanna try..." Grin.

Amethyst asks, "/Fryd/?"

Derache glares at Ame. "It ain't nice ta yabber in another language while there are those that ain't understandin' ya. That's just rude."

Anuradha says, "I told you what I am. I did not include Redwaller among my titles for a good reason."

Anuradha says, "So I will drive you out, Scindo, you and this other you mention, or I will send you to Raven himself."

Derache scowls. "Ya think ya c'n kill me, ya baggage? Ya think ya c'n best me? Ya think yer power is 'nough?"

Anuradha replies simply, "Yes."

Derache stares at her, then starts laughing again. "Too bad yer so very wrong. I ain't spiritual, I'm mental. Yer power ain't good on me."

Anuradha says, "Death is death."

Derache narrows his eyes. "An' power is power. I have a hold. I ain't lettin' it go."

Anuradha says, "Then you will die. All three of you. In blood and water, flailing uselessly."

Atma nods slowly. "Yes mother. I understand. We do this independent of Redwall. Do you honestly think it is Rakshasa?"

Derache scowls. "I ain't no Rak-wotisit. I'm a -manifestation-."

Anuradha gestures. "I will answer outside of his hearing. Scindo. Leave. I would have one of the others back now."

Amethyst is looking very uncertain, but she stays quiet for now.

Derache licks his teeth. "Fine. I may 'ave a hold, but the others are stronger...for now." He blinks, replacing hard dark eyes, for aquamarine depths. Visc shudders, looking very much saddened. "Thee would slay us?"

Anuradha regards Derache carefully. "I will explain first to the Redwallers. Will you wait here, and keep a leash on that part of yourself?"

Derache nods fervently. "Yes, of course." He looks very upset. "Please...please do not slay us."

Anuradha lifts a finger. "Wait. There will be no death tonight." And then she gestures toward the others, and the door.

Healer's Dormitory

Atma asks, "What is your decision?"

Anuradha says, "This is not a Rakshasa. This is /of/ a Rakshasa. Madness, not possession."

Amethyst says, "...What do we do, then..? Just let him go?"

Anuradha shakes her head. "No. Eventually, it may consume him." Anuradha says, "But this is like a dangerous, open wound. It must be treated with care." Anuradha says, "We must seek to strengthen the hold of the other two over the third. Ideally, we must see that the other two absorb the third. He /is/ a part of him. A corrupted part." Anuradha says, "Scindo is anger. Strength. Protection. Scindo exists to protect the other two, but he has become too much his own self. He is a danger to his own existence. The other two recognize this enough to try and control him. But they cannot control him when they have need of his protection."

Atma says, "I can be an adequate participant in his recovery. Kevarr herself had a few problems concerning her past that I guided her through. I believe I may be able to do something significant for this one."

Anuradha looks between Atma and Amethyst. "Yes, Atma, I believe you can. Do you both understand what I am saying?"

Amethyst makes a slight nod. Amethyst says, "But...It sounds like it could take a while. What do we do with him while you're strengthening the other two?"

Anuradha says, "As long as he is in control of Scindo, I would not restrain him. I would ask him to stay here, within the walls, where he can be safe and where Scindo can be controlled, but do not force him to stay if the two reasonable ones feel threatened by this. Threat and fear helps Scindo grow." Anuradha says, "For the two, patience. Comfort. Teaching. For Scindo, intolerance. Should he manifest, make it clear that he is unwelcome, and that he endangers the other two."

Amethyst asks, "What if he hurts someone?"

Anuradha says, "This is possible. But if he is confined, Scindo will undoubtedly gain control, and then he will be lost entirely." Anuradha says, "Help him to find ways to calm himself. To go where others are not when he feels angry and threatened."

Amethyst says, "But that doesn't quite answer. We might not always be there."

Atma says, "He has lived this long controlling himself, I'm sure he doesn't need constant supervision."

Anuradha says, "Yes, it is a risk." Anuradha says, "And this is your Abbey. But I think it would not be the first sick beast to pose a risk to others that you have let within."

Amethyst says, "Yeah, he's been fine, but that doesn't mean everyone around him has, Atma. And...I really can't say yes or no to it. Josiah and Sunny need to hear about it, too."

Anuradha says, "This is your decision. I am only here to tell you what is."

Amethyst says, "He can stay, at least 'til Sunny and Josiah talk about it, too."

Anuradha asks, "In what manner can he stay?"

Amethyst says, "Like anyone else."

Anuradha nods. "Then let's relieve his fears." Anuradha turns back for the room.

Amethyst's Quarters

Anuradha steps back through the door, looking the same as when she left.

Derache looks at the others as they enter, grey eyes impassive and listless. "What have you decided?" He crosses his arms, lifting an expectant eyebrow.

Anuradha says, "You and your other are well. But your third is dangerous. You state that you can control him unless you are stressed or in danger?"

Derache cocks his head a bit, before jerking it to the side. Poppop. "Yes," he says, straightening. "That is correct. He becomes erratic at that point."

Anuradha inclines her head. "Your third is an enemy to yourself, but he is also a /part/ of yourself. Firstly, you must control him. Always. Secondly, this Abbey is a place of healing, and the healers wish to help you."

Derache hmms a bit, rubbing his chin a bit. "And do you believe you can heal me?" He stares at them all for a moment. "Even if this...thing...is a part of me?"

Anuradha says, "It is the creed of Redwall to heal the sick. Are you willing to allow them to try to heal you? At the very least, to make Scindo weaker."

Derache pauses, eyes narrowing. "But...I have business with Merdez. Detainment is not possible." He sighs. "But, if you feel that this is possible, then I will oblige."

Anuradha asks, "What business?"

Derache looks a bit surprised. "Why, I have a possible commission to design a sort of fortress for him. Also, Scindo might have acquired possible work as a...torturer." He winces a bit at the words.

Atma huffs out a loud, angry snarl.

Anuradha's brows lift slightly. "Merdez hired Scindo as a torturer? And may you tell me of this fortress?"

Derache furrows his brow. "No, no, not a fortress. A sort of wall for the rocky pass before his city. I am an architect, you see." He nods once. "And, yes, Scindo seemed eager to join the profession of torturer." Derache stares at Atma's reaction. "Oh, yes, forgive me. That name seems to bother you."

Anuradha clasps her paws in front of her. "Scindo cannot be allowed such work. Do you understand why? It would make him stronger, more difficult to control, harder to get rid of."

Derache grunts a bit. "If he is not allowed this work, then maybe we should separate him from his weapons?"

Anuradha says, "If you are able, you should."

Derache nods once and unstraps the belts around his chest. Throwing them down, long, flat vials of strange liquids catch the light. Two flat wooden daggers tipped with a covering sheathe, also lay strapped to the back of the belts. "There...Perhaps you should step up the search for weapons, Atma."

Anuradha glances down toward the objects, and then looks back up at the fox. "Can you speak to me of this offer made to Scindo? Everything that was said, any particulars. If it was made to him, it will be made to others."

Derache shakes his head. "I'm afraid not." He pauses. "Yes, yes. I do remember something of importance. Do you know a horse by the name of Darkmane?"

Anuradha says, "I have heard the name. Continue."

Derache nods a bit. "Yes, well, Merdez said the horse was a torturer. Scindo was told that he should torture him because of it." He frowns a bit. "Not much else was said."

Anuradha looks toward Atma.

Derache quickly adds, "But Scindo replied that a warrior should bring in the horse. He would deal with the rest of the work. I do not know what he took to heart."

Anuradha says, "I think you should not take work from Merdez. What did he offer you in return for this construction?"

"Gold...What else is there?" The split todd motions at the bottles of whatever. "You might want to dispose of the glasses carefully and give me back the belts."

Anuradha asks, "And what did you intend to do with your payment?"

Derache stares a bit. "Well, I suppose I intended to fritter it away...Why?"

Anuradha says, "The healers wish to help you, but they cannot do this if you are far away in the northern city. Would you be willing to stay here, with us, where food and bedding is free so long as you obey the rules of non-violence?"

Derache suddenly blinks, eyes dark again. "No, are ya insane? I wouldn't stay here if'n ya-" He is abruptly cut off as blue flickers into his eyes. "Yes, yes, madame. We shall most assuredly stay."

Amethyst looks just faintly uneasy.

Anuradha smiles faintly, a kindly look that is nevertheless twisted by her scarred features. "I think you will find it easier to control Scindo if you do. There is little to fear here, and the little you find we will be sure to take care of."

Derache sighs a bit, his ears drooping. "Of course there is nothing to fear. But...we are prejudiced against here, if the young marten earlier was any indication."

Amethyst frowns.

Anuradha says, "She is my granddaughter. She knows and fears the madness of the Rakshasa, as I do. But she also knows that this is a place of healing."

Derache stares at Amethyst's frown. "Are we mistaken in our assumption?" He looks at the old marten. "Oh...well, others we met did not seem very...receptive of me. Are we a horror to look upon?"

Anuradha says, "Your injuries are not visible. Surely you understand this. They cannot be seen or well understood, and they will take longer than a wound to heal."

Derache suddenly smiles. "Umm, Atma mentioned a library?"

Anuradha looks toward Atma again.

Derache pulls out the pipe again, refills it with some tobacco, and lights it. Smoke pours from his nostrils as he inhales and exhales. "Mmmmm."

Atma clears his throat. "Yes. There is a library. It is downstairs."

Derache moves towards the door. "Oh, We must visit it." He looks back. "We are free to leave?"

Anuradha says, "Indeed. Enjoy yourself, and keep yourself in control."

Derache chuckles. "Indeed, and thank you." Derache cocks his head a bit. Out the door he goes.

The Tentative End