Chapter 177: Memories
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Chapter 177: Memories
Tala exited the Archon Compound, Terry on her shoulder, looking more normal than she had in a long time.
Except that Im barefoot in the snow. Yeah, that was telling. She felt a smile pulling at her lips.
With a thought, she dove into her elk-leathers and gave power to the path which would give her shoes.
She lifted up each foot just a bit as the tendrils grew out of her pants leg around the foot and filled in. After that, the shoes disconnected from the pants, seemingly separate pieces of clothing.
There. Now, I dont look quite so odd.
She wasnt wearing a coat, and it was actively snowing. She sighed.
And its coming up on five oclock in the morning. She really shouldnt be out and about if she was any sort of normal.
Good thing almost no one will be out and about to see me.
The snowfall wasnt nearly blizzard proportions, but it was steady and far from sparse.
White flakes drifted down through the nearly completely still air. A silence of a type utterly unique to new-fallen snow blanketed the city.
Tala felt a warmth in her chest at the environment and decided to go for a walk through this seemingly private winter wonderland.
Terry occasionally shook himself free of snow and flickered to grab all the jerky that Tala tossed for him, but otherwise was content to rest on her shoulder.
The streetlights were thoughtfully spaced but dimmed in truth due to the late hour and to the human eye by the steadily falling snow.
Still, Tala had no trouble whatsoever. In fact, she found that it helped offset the earlier wrongness that shed felt during her trip to the Compound, early that night.
As she walked, she didnt really have a destination. She just strolled and thought.
She wondered about her family, about her brothers and sisters.
When she tried, to her shock, she realized that she couldnt bring their faces to mind.
Thats not right. I have a perfect memory now. But she hadnt seen them in seven years, and she hadnt had her inscriptions then.
I can perfectly recall my imperfect recollection. It was a sick joke.
She had already decided to go resolve things with them.
But what does that mean?
It would certainly involve some exchange of words.
What should I even say to them? She didnt know.
She ran a thousand scenarios through her head but had no reason to believe that any one of them was more plausible than another.
-Ding-
-Memory recovery complete.-
Alat?
-Tala, these two areheavy. And I found a few others besides.-
Let me sit down.
-I dont know, what youre already thinking about is pretty important.- There was a slight hesitation. -Oh, youve been up to some fun things. I like Jenna, and I like the increases Im feeling from this new body paint.-
Nonsense, youre getting off track. I need to know what memories were taken. She moved over to a nearby park and found a bench, clearing it of snow before settling down. Im ready.
-Alright, lighter ones, first.-
Tala was then forced to relive some of her worst memories of her time at the Academy, as well as her departure.
I had suppressed my memory of arriving naked on purpose.
-Yes, but it qualified as one of the memories you commanded I search for.-
I really should track down Phoen. She was kind to me, and I never thanked her properly.
-That would be the civil thing to do.-
That settled, Tala closed her eyes and was treated to a few flickers of her more reckless decisions since graduation, and she felt quite a bit of embarrassment for how foolishly shed acted. Well, if you look upon your past actions with shame, it shows that youve grown, right?
-That sounds like something embarrassing people tell themselves to feel better.-
Youre kind of a jerk.
-I am literally you.-
Fine. Im kind of a jerk.
-Recognizing the issue is half the battle, or something like that. This is character growth in action.-
Tala narrowed her eyes, but had no one to direct her ire filled gaze at, at least not externally. Youre stalling.
There was some hesitation, then, finally, Alat sighed within her head. -Yeah, I am. This isnt great.-
Well, lets get it over with. Tala swallowed to wet her dry lips and closed her eyes.
-As you wish.-
* * *
Tala was in Bandfast, a short walk from the teleportation tower.
As her eyes scanned those she passed, she was able to pick out the occasional Mage by their bearing and fluid manner of movement, not to mention the spell-lines evident across their exposed skin. Most also wore Mages robes, but not all.
To her surprise, she also saw an arcane, a humanoid arcanous creature.
What had caught her attention at first was the leather collar he wore, though it was tucked low, almost entirely hidden by his shirts collar. As shed looked closer, ensuring that her eyes hadnt deceived her and that it wasnt just an odd fashion choice, hed turned to regard her. She hadnt noticed his gaze until after shed seen the metallic spell-lines on the leather collar.
When she had felt his gaze, her eyes flicked up, meeting his, and she felt frozen to the spot.
His eyes were blood.
No comparison holds the weight of truth save to say that his eyes were spheres of fresh, liquid blood, unbroken save small circular scabs in place of pupils.
Tala swallowed involuntarily. Hes looking at me. She tried to smile politely and turn away, but she found she couldnt force herself to turn.This chapter's initial release occurred on the n0vell--Bjjn site.
Around his eyes, true-black, smooth skin forced the orbs into starker contrast, making their deep shades seem almost to glow. Subtle hints of gray lines ran under that skin in patterns very like spell-lines but somehow utterly different, like seeing her own language written with a phonetic alphabet. The concepts seemed familiar, while remaining utterly opaque to her interpretation.
She tried to turn away, again, and actually felt resistance, like she was fighting herself. A tingle of her own power, emanating from her keystone, preceded the answer: Allure. Hes somehow manipulating the conceptual nature of reality, forcing my attention to remain locked on him.
As an Immaterial Mage, she could work with non-substance aspects of the world, such as gravity, dimensionality, and molecular cohesion, but warping the magnitude of concepts? Thatthat had disturbing implications.
As if in response to her thoughts, a different set of lines seemed to flicker into prominence around those wounding eyes, and she found herself turning away in confusion. What is wrong with me? I stare at something Ive never seen before and suddenly insist that it must be Magic?
She shook her head at her own foolishness. Then, another prickle rippled out from her keystone, a subtle warning, and she froze. Conceptual manipulationwould the concept of believability count? She spun, her eyes ripping across the crowds, trying desperately to find the arcane once more. She had the flickering impression of an amused smile, but nothing more.
After another few moments of frenzied searching, she was left with a subtle, low-level itch from her keystone and the growing concern that shed somehow imagined the brief encounter. II need to get to the Caravanners Guild.
* * *
Tala gasped, coming out of the memory. Oh, rust. Her whole body was shaking.
-I know, right?-
Shed known that something had messed with her mind on an intellectual level, but shed never really faced the reality of it, nor even tried to imagine what her attacker had looked like. Now she had a visage for her nightmares.
Why was that memory so much clearer than the others? She could still see those eyes of blood, feel them upon her as if they were watching her even now. Though, she knew that wasnt the case.
-You were inscribed within days of that event, so it had the power and spell-workings to be set in place.-
Why couldnt I remember it, if it was stored so clearly in my mind? What did that monster do to her?
-It was surrounded by a haze of unreality.-
That makes no sense. Tala pulled out some jerky for herself and Terry, desperate for some form of normalcy, then started preparing tea for herself on the park bench. Dont think about it. Dont think about it.
There was a pulse of power, quickly fading into the distance, and Talas eyes snapped open.
She was laying on the ground, staring up at falling snow and clouds, which were just losing the last light of day.
Where am I?
Mistress Tala? Mistress Odera was calling her.
* * *
Tala came out of the memory, shaking so much that she almost spilled her tea. She needed to focus. She couldnt get him out of her head, so she needed to focus on the minutia. That should let her push past the horror of what shed just re-experienced. Why was my first impression of him almost identical between the memories?
-Because it was your first impression. You hadnt changed that much in the intervening time, so you thought very nearly the same things upon first noticing him.-
That made a lot of sense. The fear was still there, a raging beast just out of her field of view. Focus, Tala. Hespowerful, but we knew that.
-And he wanted to kill you, or take you with him, but couldnt.-
Not helping, Alat. I know you feel this fear too. I need help. Im Im close to being overwhelmed here.
-What drove him off?-
Xeels approach. Thinking of the massively powerful Archon calmed Tala, somewhat. It helped her focus.
-Xeels approach.-
There really wasnt any choice in the matter. She now had a task to perform. We need to tell someone about this.
-Back to the Compound?-
Tala nodded, firm in her resolve. Back to the Compound.
While Tala had walked quite the distance, she had been meandering. Thus, she hadnt displaced herself too far from where shed started. Consequently, she was back at the long, tunnel-like entrance a scant few minutes later.
Tala strode back into the Archon Compound, and none of the defenses reacted to her entry.
Well, thats good at least.
She was approaching the sleepy looking young man, who was the current attendant at the round, welcome desk, when she noticed Jenna standing beside her.
Mistress Tala, back so soon? Did something go wrong?
Tala did her best not to show any reaction to the womans sudden appearance, but she felt her eye twitch just a bit. Thats becoming a habit There is something that Id like to report. This is likely not the best place. Its too public.
Something in Talas demeanor must have clued the Archon in to the seriousness of the situation, because any hint of levity vanished from her features. Yes, of course. Right this way, please.
* * *
And then I came back here. Tala finished somewhat lamely.
-No kidding that was a lame ending. Oh, Mistress of the city, there is a great evil that might be among us. So, I came here.-
Shut up.
-You literally cant make me.-
I can do another, even more esoteric query.
-You wouldnt dare.-
Try me.
There was a short silence before Alat responded. -Fine.-
Jenna sat back in her rather comfy looking armchair, clearly considering, just as clearly unaware of the argument going on in Talas head. Ill have a lot of questions for you, and Im sure many others will as well.
-If I may speak, I have a suggestion.-
Tala sighed internally. Fine. What is it?
-Why dont we just give her access to the memories?-
We can do that? Tala knew it was theoretically possible, but had no idea how such a thing would be accessed by another person, or what it would do, or anything, really.
-Of course. Theyre all stored in the Archive, now. We can share any part of our mind with anyone we wish. I can gate it so they only see and hear what we saw and heard, rather than getting our inner thoughts, or I can allow our inner voice to overlay, so they can hear your thoughts at the time.-
Unmodified. As close to complete as possible, please.
Mistress Tala? Whats going on? You seem distracted. Is it thealternate interface you mentioned?
Yes. We have an idea.
That got a raised eyebrow, but Tala pressed on.
What if I just give you access to the memories in question?
That seemed to catch Jenna off guard. I wasnt aware that you were a mind mage, or an illusionist of that caliber.
No, no. They are stored in the Archive. I did try to explain that earlier, but I suppose that was the least of what I conveyed.
Jenna nodded slowly. Thats worth a try. Sure. She pulled out a slate, but before she could start working on it, Alat spoke into Talas mind once more.
-No need for that.-
No need for that.
-I can grant her access without a contract or slate, anddone.-
You should have access, now.
Jenna cocked her head, then shrugged. Alright. She gestured at one wall, and the stone moved aside, revealing an illusion array very similar to the one Boma had on his desk. Though, if Tala had to guess, she would say that this one was more intricately constructed.
After a moments manipulation, Jenna brought up the memories, and the two women watched them, together.
When the second one finished, Jenna was silent for a long time.
Tala still had a lot to do before Terrys first day sparring alongside her. Thus, she was eager to depart. Sodo you need anything else from me?
Jenna scoffed. Ill need to show this to my husband and several others of note. Do I have your permission?
-Granted-
Yes. The Archive should allow that, now.
Thank you, Mistress Tala. This is a disturbing revelation, but I am glad to have it brought to light. I am sure we will be in touch.
-She can just update a note for you in the Archive. Ill notice the new access and get it immediately.-
I believe that you can just put a note for me in the Archive and grant me permission to view it. Ill see it and act accordingly.
Jenna nodded slowly. As you say. Ill use that method if it isnt time critical but-
Tala held up her hand. My apologies, Mistress Jenna, I dont mean to contradict you, but that will be the fastest way to reach me, regardless of the circumstances. Assuming you dont go offline again.
-All the more reason to keep from giving me over-taxing commands.-
The older woman regarded her for a long moment, then nodded again. As you wish.
Tala stood from her own chair. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a breakfast appointment.
Jenna stood as well. You seem remarkably calm, given what youve just unveiled.
Tala gave a nervous, almost manic giggle. Dont think about it. Dont let it sink in.
-Thats really not healthyor really possible any more.-
Hush, you. Im coping. Oh, I just cant let the fear settle in. Gotta keep moving, you know.
Jenna gave a slight bow of her head, but there was clearly concern in her expression. Take care of yourself, Mistress Tala.
Tala bowed in return. Please protect us all, Mistress Jenna. Because I certainly cant.
Without another word, or backwards glance, Tala strode away, leaving the Archon Compound behind.
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Chapter 177: Memories
Tala exited the Archon Compound, Terry on her shoulder, looking more normal than she had in a long time.
Except that Im barefoot in the snow. Yeah, that was telling. She felt a smile pulling at her lips.
With a thought, she dove into her elk-leathers and gave power to the path which would give her shoes.
She lifted up each foot just a bit as the tendrils grew out of her pants leg around the foot and filled in. After that, the shoes disconnected from the pants, seemingly separate pieces of clothing.
There. Now, I dont look quite so odd.
She wasnt wearing a coat, and it was actively snowing. She sighed.
And its coming up on five oclock in the morning. She really shouldnt be out and about if she was any sort of normal.
Good thing almost no one will be out and about to see me.
The snowfall wasnt nearly blizzard proportions, but it was steady and far from sparse.
White flakes drifted down through the nearly completely still air. A silence of a type utterly unique to new-fallen snow blanketed the city.
Tala felt a warmth in her chest at the environment and decided to go for a walk through this seemingly private winter wonderland.
Terry occasionally shook himself free of snow and flickered to grab all the jerky that Tala tossed for him, but otherwise was content to rest on her shoulder.
The streetlights were thoughtfully spaced but dimmed in truth due to the late hour and to the human eye by the steadily falling snow.
Still, Tala had no trouble whatsoever. In fact, she found that it helped offset the earlier wrongness that shed felt during her trip to the Compound, early that night.
As she walked, she didnt really have a destination. She just strolled and thought.
She wondered about her family, about her brothers and sisters.
When she tried, to her shock, she realized that she couldnt bring their faces to mind.
Thats not right. I have a perfect memory now. But she hadnt seen them in seven years, and she hadnt had her inscriptions then.
I can perfectly recall my imperfect recollection. It was a sick joke.
She had already decided to go resolve things with them.
But what does that mean?
It would certainly involve some exchange of words.
What should I even say to them? She didnt know.
She ran a thousand scenarios through her head but had no reason to believe that any one of them was more plausible than another.
-Ding-
-Memory recovery complete.-
Alat?
-Tala, these two areheavy. And I found a few others besides.-
Let me sit down.
-I dont know, what youre already thinking about is pretty important.- There was a slight hesitation. -Oh, youve been up to some fun things. I like Jenna, and I like the increases Im feeling from this new body paint.-
Nonsense, youre getting off track. I need to know what memories were taken. She moved over to a nearby park and found a bench, clearing it of snow before settling down. Im ready.
-Alright, lighter ones, first.-
Tala was then forced to relive some of her worst memories of her time at the Academy, as well as her departure.
I had suppressed my memory of arriving naked on purpose.
-Yes, but it qualified as one of the memories you commanded I search for.-
I really should track down Phoen. She was kind to me, and I never thanked her properly.
-That would be the civil thing to do.-
That settled, Tala closed her eyes and was treated to a few flickers of her more reckless decisions since graduation, and she felt quite a bit of embarrassment for how foolishly shed acted. Well, if you look upon your past actions with shame, it shows that youve grown, right?
-That sounds like something embarrassing people tell themselves to feel better.-
Youre kind of a jerk.
-I am literally you.-
Fine. Im kind of a jerk.
-Recognizing the issue is half the battle, or something like that. This is character growth in action.-
Tala narrowed her eyes, but had no one to direct her ire filled gaze at, at least not externally. Youre stalling.
There was some hesitation, then, finally, Alat sighed within her head. -Yeah, I am. This isnt great.-
Well, lets get it over with. Tala swallowed to wet her dry lips and closed her eyes.
-As you wish.-
* * *
Tala was in Bandfast, a short walk from the teleportation tower.
As her eyes scanned those she passed, she was able to pick out the occasional Mage by their bearing and fluid manner of movement, not to mention the spell-lines evident across their exposed skin. Most also wore Mages robes, but not all.
To her surprise, she also saw an arcane, a humanoid arcanous creature.
What had caught her attention at first was the leather collar he wore, though it was tucked low, almost entirely hidden by his shirts collar. As shed looked closer, ensuring that her eyes hadnt deceived her and that it wasnt just an odd fashion choice, hed turned to regard her. She hadnt noticed his gaze until after shed seen the metallic spell-lines on the leather collar.
When she had felt his gaze, her eyes flicked up, meeting his, and she felt frozen to the spot.
His eyes were blood.
No comparison holds the weight of truth save to say that his eyes were spheres of fresh, liquid blood, unbroken save small circular scabs in place of pupils.
Tala swallowed involuntarily. Hes looking at me. She tried to smile politely and turn away, but she found she couldnt force herself to turn.This chapter's initial release occurred on the n0vell--Bjjn site.
Around his eyes, true-black, smooth skin forced the orbs into starker contrast, making their deep shades seem almost to glow. Subtle hints of gray lines ran under that skin in patterns very like spell-lines but somehow utterly different, like seeing her own language written with a phonetic alphabet. The concepts seemed familiar, while remaining utterly opaque to her interpretation.
She tried to turn away, again, and actually felt resistance, like she was fighting herself. A tingle of her own power, emanating from her keystone, preceded the answer: Allure. Hes somehow manipulating the conceptual nature of reality, forcing my attention to remain locked on him.
As an Immaterial Mage, she could work with non-substance aspects of the world, such as gravity, dimensionality, and molecular cohesion, but warping the magnitude of concepts? Thatthat had disturbing implications.
As if in response to her thoughts, a different set of lines seemed to flicker into prominence around those wounding eyes, and she found herself turning away in confusion. What is wrong with me? I stare at something Ive never seen before and suddenly insist that it must be Magic?
She shook her head at her own foolishness. Then, another prickle rippled out from her keystone, a subtle warning, and she froze. Conceptual manipulationwould the concept of believability count? She spun, her eyes ripping across the crowds, trying desperately to find the arcane once more. She had the flickering impression of an amused smile, but nothing more.
After another few moments of frenzied searching, she was left with a subtle, low-level itch from her keystone and the growing concern that shed somehow imagined the brief encounter. II need to get to the Caravanners Guild.
* * *
Tala gasped, coming out of the memory. Oh, rust. Her whole body was shaking.
-I know, right?-
Shed known that something had messed with her mind on an intellectual level, but shed never really faced the reality of it, nor even tried to imagine what her attacker had looked like. Now she had a visage for her nightmares.
Why was that memory so much clearer than the others? She could still see those eyes of blood, feel them upon her as if they were watching her even now. Though, she knew that wasnt the case.
-You were inscribed within days of that event, so it had the power and spell-workings to be set in place.-
Why couldnt I remember it, if it was stored so clearly in my mind? What did that monster do to her?
-It was surrounded by a haze of unreality.-
That makes no sense. Tala pulled out some jerky for herself and Terry, desperate for some form of normalcy, then started preparing tea for herself on the park bench. Dont think about it. Dont think about it.
There was a pulse of power, quickly fading into the distance, and Talas eyes snapped open.
She was laying on the ground, staring up at falling snow and clouds, which were just losing the last light of day.
Where am I?
Mistress Tala? Mistress Odera was calling her.
* * *
Tala came out of the memory, shaking so much that she almost spilled her tea. She needed to focus. She couldnt get him out of her head, so she needed to focus on the minutia. That should let her push past the horror of what shed just re-experienced. Why was my first impression of him almost identical between the memories?
-Because it was your first impression. You hadnt changed that much in the intervening time, so you thought very nearly the same things upon first noticing him.-
That made a lot of sense. The fear was still there, a raging beast just out of her field of view. Focus, Tala. Hespowerful, but we knew that.
-And he wanted to kill you, or take you with him, but couldnt.-
Not helping, Alat. I know you feel this fear too. I need help. Im Im close to being overwhelmed here.
-What drove him off?-
Xeels approach. Thinking of the massively powerful Archon calmed Tala, somewhat. It helped her focus.
-Xeels approach.-
There really wasnt any choice in the matter. She now had a task to perform. We need to tell someone about this.
-Back to the Compound?-
Tala nodded, firm in her resolve. Back to the Compound.
While Tala had walked quite the distance, she had been meandering. Thus, she hadnt displaced herself too far from where shed started. Consequently, she was back at the long, tunnel-like entrance a scant few minutes later.
Tala strode back into the Archon Compound, and none of the defenses reacted to her entry.
Well, thats good at least.
She was approaching the sleepy looking young man, who was the current attendant at the round, welcome desk, when she noticed Jenna standing beside her.
Mistress Tala, back so soon? Did something go wrong?
Tala did her best not to show any reaction to the womans sudden appearance, but she felt her eye twitch just a bit. Thats becoming a habit There is something that Id like to report. This is likely not the best place. Its too public.
Something in Talas demeanor must have clued the Archon in to the seriousness of the situation, because any hint of levity vanished from her features. Yes, of course. Right this way, please.
* * *
And then I came back here. Tala finished somewhat lamely.
-No kidding that was a lame ending. Oh, Mistress of the city, there is a great evil that might be among us. So, I came here.-
Shut up.
-You literally cant make me.-
I can do another, even more esoteric query.
-You wouldnt dare.-
Try me.
There was a short silence before Alat responded. -Fine.-
Jenna sat back in her rather comfy looking armchair, clearly considering, just as clearly unaware of the argument going on in Talas head. Ill have a lot of questions for you, and Im sure many others will as well.
-If I may speak, I have a suggestion.-
Tala sighed internally. Fine. What is it?
-Why dont we just give her access to the memories?-
We can do that? Tala knew it was theoretically possible, but had no idea how such a thing would be accessed by another person, or what it would do, or anything, really.
-Of course. Theyre all stored in the Archive, now. We can share any part of our mind with anyone we wish. I can gate it so they only see and hear what we saw and heard, rather than getting our inner thoughts, or I can allow our inner voice to overlay, so they can hear your thoughts at the time.-
Unmodified. As close to complete as possible, please.
Mistress Tala? Whats going on? You seem distracted. Is it thealternate interface you mentioned?
Yes. We have an idea.
That got a raised eyebrow, but Tala pressed on.
What if I just give you access to the memories in question?
That seemed to catch Jenna off guard. I wasnt aware that you were a mind mage, or an illusionist of that caliber.
No, no. They are stored in the Archive. I did try to explain that earlier, but I suppose that was the least of what I conveyed.
Jenna nodded slowly. Thats worth a try. Sure. She pulled out a slate, but before she could start working on it, Alat spoke into Talas mind once more.
-No need for that.-
No need for that.
-I can grant her access without a contract or slate, anddone.-
You should have access, now.
Jenna cocked her head, then shrugged. Alright. She gestured at one wall, and the stone moved aside, revealing an illusion array very similar to the one Boma had on his desk. Though, if Tala had to guess, she would say that this one was more intricately constructed.
After a moments manipulation, Jenna brought up the memories, and the two women watched them, together.
When the second one finished, Jenna was silent for a long time.
Tala still had a lot to do before Terrys first day sparring alongside her. Thus, she was eager to depart. Sodo you need anything else from me?
Jenna scoffed. Ill need to show this to my husband and several others of note. Do I have your permission?
-Granted-
Yes. The Archive should allow that, now.
Thank you, Mistress Tala. This is a disturbing revelation, but I am glad to have it brought to light. I am sure we will be in touch.
-She can just update a note for you in the Archive. Ill notice the new access and get it immediately.-
I believe that you can just put a note for me in the Archive and grant me permission to view it. Ill see it and act accordingly.
Jenna nodded slowly. As you say. Ill use that method if it isnt time critical but-
Tala held up her hand. My apologies, Mistress Jenna, I dont mean to contradict you, but that will be the fastest way to reach me, regardless of the circumstances. Assuming you dont go offline again.
-All the more reason to keep from giving me over-taxing commands.-
The older woman regarded her for a long moment, then nodded again. As you wish.
Tala stood from her own chair. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a breakfast appointment.
Jenna stood as well. You seem remarkably calm, given what youve just unveiled.
Tala gave a nervous, almost manic giggle. Dont think about it. Dont let it sink in.
-Thats really not healthyor really possible any more.-
Hush, you. Im coping. Oh, I just cant let the fear settle in. Gotta keep moving, you know.
Jenna gave a slight bow of her head, but there was clearly concern in her expression. Take care of yourself, Mistress Tala.
Tala bowed in return. Please protect us all, Mistress Jenna. Because I certainly cant.
Without another word, or backwards glance, Tala strode away, leaving the Archon Compound behind.
Chapter 177: MemoriesTala exited the Archon Compound, Terry on her shoulder, looking more normal than she had in a long time.Except that Im barefoot in the snow. Yeah, that was telling. She felt a smile pulling at her lips.With a thought, she dove into her elk-leathers and gave power to the path which would give her shoes.She lifted up each foot just a bit as the tendrils grew out of her pants leg around the foot and filled in. After that, the shoes disconnected from the pants, seemingly separate pieces of clothing.There. Now, I dont look quite so odd.She wasnt wearing a coat, and it was actively snowing. She sighed.And its coming up on five oclock in the morning. She really shouldnt be out and about if she was any sort of normal.Good thing almost no one will be out and about to see me.The snowfall wasnt nearly blizzard proportions, but it was steady and far from sparse.White flakes drifted down through the nearly completely still air. A silence of a type utterly unique to new-fallen snow blanketed the city.Tala felt a warmth in her chest at the environment and decided to go for a walk through this seemingly private winter wonderland.Terry occasionally shook himself free of snow and flickered to grab all the jerky that Tala tossed for him, but otherwise was content to rest on her shoulder.The streetlights were thoughtfully spaced but dimmed in truth due to the late hour and to the human eye by the steadily falling snow.Still, Tala had no trouble whatsoever. In fact, she found that it helped offset the earlier wrongness that shed felt during her trip to the Compound, early that night.As she walked, she didnt really have a destination. She just strolled and thought.She wondered about her family, about her brothers and sisters.When she tried, to her shock, she realized that she couldnt bring their faces to mind.Thats not right. I have a perfect memory now. But she hadnt seen them in seven years, and she hadnt had her inscriptions then.I can perfectly recall my imperfect recollection. It was a sick joke.She had already decided to go resolve things with them.But what does that mean?It would certainly involve some exchange of words.What should I even say to them? She didnt know.She ran a thousand scenarios through her head but had no reason to believe that any one of them was more plausible than another.-Ding--Memory recovery complete.-Alat?-Tala, these two areheavy. And I found a few others besides.-Let me sit down.-I dont know, what youre already thinking about is pretty important.- There was a slight hesitation. -Oh, youve been up to some fun things. I like Jenna, and I like the increases Im feeling from this new body paint.-Nonsense, youre getting off track. I need to know what memories were taken. She moved over to a nearby park and found a bench, clearing it of snow before settling down. Im ready.-Alright, lighter ones, first.-Tala was then forced to relive some of her worst memories of her time at the Academy, as well as her departure.I had suppressed my memory of arriving naked on purpose.-Yes, but it qualified as one of the memories you commanded I search for.-I really should track down Phoen. She was kind to me, and I never thanked her properly.-That would be the civil thing to do.-That settled, Tala closed her eyes and was treated to a few flickers of her more reckless decisions since graduation, and she felt quite a bit of embarrassment for how foolishly shed acted. Well, if you look upon your past actions with shame, it shows that youve grown, right?-That sounds like something embarrassing people tell themselves to feel better.-Youre kind of a jerk.-I am literally you.-Fine. Im kind of a jerk.-Recognizing the issue is half the battle, or something like that. This is character growth in action.-Tala narrowed her eyes, but had no one to direct her ire filled gaze at, at least not externally. Youre stalling.There was some hesitation, then, finally, Alat sighed within her head. -Yeah, I am. This isnt great.-Well, lets get it over with. Tala swallowed to wet her dry lips and closed her eyes.-As you wish.-* * *Tala was in Bandfast, a short walk from the teleportation tower.As her eyes scanned those she passed, she was able to pick out the occasional Mage by their bearing and fluid manner of movement, not to mention the spell-lines evident across their exposed skin. Most also wore Mages robes, but not all.To her surprise, she also saw an arcane, a humanoid arcanous creature.What had caught her attention at first was the leather collar he wore, though it was tucked low, almost entirely hidden by his shirts collar. As shed looked closer, ensuring that her eyes hadnt deceived her and that it wasnt just an odd fashion choice, hed turned to regard her. She hadnt noticed his gaze until after shed seen the metallic spell-lines on the leather collar.When she had felt his gaze, her eyes flicked up, meeting his, and she felt frozen to the spot.His eyes were blood.No comparison holds the weight of truth save to say that his eyes were spheres of fresh, liquid blood, unbroken save small circular scabs in place of pupils.Tala swallowed involuntarily. Hes looking at me. She tried to smile politely and turn away, but she found she couldnt force herself to turn.This chapter's initial release occurred on the n0vell--Bjjn site.Around his eyes, true-black, smooth skin forced the orbs into starker contrast, making their deep shades seem almost to glow. Subtle hints of gray lines ran under that skin in patterns very like spell-lines but somehow utterly different, like seeing her own language written with a phonetic alphabet. The concepts seemed familiar, while remaining utterly opaque to her interpretation.She tried to turn away, again, and actually felt resistance, like she was fighting herself. A tingle of her own power, emanating from her keystone, preceded the answer: Allure. Hes somehow manipulating the conceptual nature of reality, forcing my attention to remain locked on him.As an Immaterial Mage, she could work with non-substance aspects of the world, such as gravity, dimensionality, and molecular cohesion, but warping the magnitude of concepts? Thatthat had disturbing implications.As if in response to her thoughts, a different set of lines seemed to flicker into prominence around those wounding eyes, and she found herself turning away in confusion. What is wrong with me? I stare at something Ive never seen before and suddenly insist that it must be Magic?She shook her head at her own foolishness. Then, another prickle rippled out from her keystone, a subtle warning, and she froze. Conceptual manipulationwould the concept of believability count? She spun, her eyes ripping across the crowds, trying desperately to find the arcane once more. She had the flickering impression of an amused smile, but nothing more.After another few moments of frenzied searching, she was left with a subtle, low-level itch from her keystone and the growing concern that shed somehow imagined the brief encounter. II need to get to the Caravanners Guild.* * *Tala gasped, coming out of the memory. Oh, rust. Her whole body was shaking.-I know, right?-Shed known that something had messed with her mind on an intellectual level, but shed never really faced the reality of it, nor even tried to imagine what her attacker had looked like. Now she had a visage for her nightmares.Why was that memory so much clearer than the others? She could still see those eyes of blood, feel them upon her as if they were watching her even now. Though, she knew that wasnt the case.-You were inscribed within days of that event, so it had the power and spell-workings to be set in place.-Why couldnt I remember it, if it was stored so clearly in my mind? What did that monster do to her?-It was surrounded by a haze of unreality.-That makes no sense. Tala pulled out some jerky for herself and Terry, desperate for some form of normalcy, then started preparing tea for herself on the park bench. Dont think about it. Dont think about it.There was a pulse of power, quickly fading into the distance, and Talas eyes snapped open.She was laying on the ground, staring up at falling snow and clouds, which were just losing the last light of day.Where am I?Mistress Tala? Mistress Odera was calling her.* * *Tala came out of the memory, shaking so much that she almost spilled her tea. She needed to focus. She couldnt get him out of her head, so she needed to focus on the minutia. That should let her push past the horror of what shed just re-experienced. Why was my first impression of him almost identical between the memories?-Because it was your first impression. You hadnt changed that much in the intervening time, so you thought very nearly the same things upon first noticing him.-That made a lot of sense. The fear was still there, a raging beast just out of her field of view. Focus, Tala. Hespowerful, but we knew that.-And he wanted to kill you, or take you with him, but couldnt.-Not helping, Alat. I know you feel this fear too. I need help. Im Im close to being overwhelmed here.-What drove him off?-Xeels approach. Thinking of the massively powerful Archon calmed Tala, somewhat. It helped her focus.-Xeels approach.-There really wasnt any choice in the matter. She now had a task to perform. We need to tell someone about this.-Back to the Compound?-Tala nodded, firm in her resolve. Back to the Compound.While Tala had walked quite the distance, she had been meandering. Thus, she hadnt displaced herself too far from where shed started. Consequently, she was back at the long, tunnel-like entrance a scant few minutes later.Tala strode back into the Archon Compound, and none of the defenses reacted to her entry.Well, thats good at least.She was approaching the sleepy looking young man, who was the current attendant at the round, welcome desk, when she noticed Jenna standing beside her.Mistress Tala, back so soon? Did something go wrong?Tala did her best not to show any reaction to the womans sudden appearance, but she felt her eye twitch just a bit. Thats becoming a habit There is something that Id like to report. This is likely not the best place. Its too public.Something in Talas demeanor must have clued the Archon in to the seriousness of the situation, because any hint of levity vanished from her features. Yes, of course. Right this way, please.* * *And then I came back here. Tala finished somewhat lamely.-No kidding that was a lame ending. Oh, Mistress of the city, there is a great evil that might be among us. So, I came here.-Shut up.-You literally cant make me.-I can do another, even more esoteric query.-You wouldnt dare.-Try me.There was a short silence before Alat responded. -Fine.-Jenna sat back in her rather comfy looking armchair, clearly considering, just as clearly unaware of the argument going on in Talas head. Ill have a lot of questions for you, and Im sure many others will as well.-If I may speak, I have a suggestion.-Tala sighed internally. Fine. What is it?-Why dont we just give her access to the memories?-We can do that? Tala knew it was theoretically possible, but had no idea how such a thing would be accessed by another person, or what it would do, or anything, really.-Of course. Theyre all stored in the Archive, now. We can share any part of our mind with anyone we wish. I can gate it so they only see and hear what we saw and heard, rather than getting our inner thoughts, or I can allow our inner voice to overlay, so they can hear your thoughts at the time.-Unmodified. As close to complete as possible, please.Mistress Tala? Whats going on? You seem distracted. Is it thealternate interface you mentioned?Yes. We have an idea.That got a raised eyebrow, but Tala pressed on.What if I just give you access to the memories in question?That seemed to catch Jenna off guard. I wasnt aware that you were a mind mage, or an illusionist of that caliber.No, no. They are stored in the Archive. I did try to explain that earlier, but I suppose that was the least of what I conveyed.Jenna nodded slowly. Thats worth a try. Sure. She pulled out a slate, but before she could start working on it, Alat spoke into Talas mind once more.-No need for that.-No need for that.-I can grant her access without a contract or slate, anddone.-You should have access, now.Jenna cocked her head, then shrugged. Alright. She gestured at one wall, and the stone moved aside, revealing an illusion array very similar to the one Boma had on his desk. Though, if Tala had to guess, she would say that this one was more intricately constructed.After a moments manipulation, Jenna brought up the memories, and the two women watched them, together.When the second one finished, Jenna was silent for a long time.Tala still had a lot to do before Terrys first day sparring alongside her. Thus, she was eager to depart. Sodo you need anything else from me?Jenna scoffed. Ill need to show this to my husband and several others of note. Do I have your permission?-Granted-Yes. The Archive should allow that, now.Thank you, Mistress Tala. This is a disturbing revelation, but I am glad to have it brought to light. I am sure we will be in touch.-She can just update a note for you in the Archive. Ill notice the new access and get it immediately.-I believe that you can just put a note for me in the Archive and grant me permission to view it. Ill see it and act accordingly.Jenna nodded slowly. As you say. Ill use that method if it isnt time critical but-Tala held up her hand. My apologies, Mistress Jenna, I dont mean to contradict you, but that will be the fastest way to reach me, regardless of the circumstances. Assuming you dont go offline again.-All the more reason to keep from giving me over-taxing commands.-The older woman regarded her for a long moment, then nodded again. As you wish.Tala stood from her own chair. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a breakfast appointment.Jenna stood as well. You seem remarkably calm, given what youve just unveiled.Tala gave a nervous, almost manic giggle. Dont think about it. Dont let it sink in.-Thats really not healthyor really possible any more.-Hush, you. Im coping. Oh, I just cant let the fear settle in. Gotta keep moving, you know.Jenna gave a slight bow of her head, but there was clearly concern in her expression. Take care of yourself, Mistress Tala.Tala bowed in return. Please protect us all, Mistress Jenna. Because I certainly cant.Without another word, or backwards glance, Tala strode away, leaving the Archon Compound behind.
