Baldur's Gate : The Sword Coast Chronicles : NWN2 Persistent World

Touching on the Nashkel Cause

"Don't you DARE think of taking me inside" I yelled at them all. I'd only just got outside from a day couped up sewing bedding and baby clothes. Had even sent Decha out in my stead to take a message to the grove.

I was quite happy to sit on soft grass and take weight of my feet while they all talked. Standing made my back ache. I listened to Natalie's concerns, Raymond and I promised to get that letter out but before we could talk more and think of more ways to bring comfort to her three others arrived: Pledge, the lady Keshari and Kyle. Lady Keshari had question of me, Kyle had thought that I, being friend to Dennis and formerly of their Cloakwood Company, might be able to assist the woman.

Not really. Seems Dennis is still annoyed at the woman for raising arms against him during the curfuffle around the time of the attack of the hoggoblins in the farmlands. Natalie had been there and she has Dennis' ear more than I so I directed the matter to her. Seems that Lady Keshari wants Dennis and his Company to bow down to the orders of her group regarding Nashkel endeavours all in aid of a similar cause. Natalie and I both laughed incredulously at that. That was never going to happen. The lady comes across as quite pompous. I can not see Dennis nor Earindil dealing well with her sort. If I'd still been in the Company, perhaps I could have mediated since I've dealt with her type before in the past. But...not any longer and I've too many of my own tasks and those of the Circle to be getting on with for now. Good luck to them.

Nature Finds a Way - Part 1

During a blessing recieved from the lady Aeili earlier that day, she'd felt that one of the babies at least had 'turned', its position optimal for the birthing. It was a sign that her time was close.

Her waters broke as she sat in the chair by the fireplace some hours later. After helping her clean up he made the room ready while she paced and dealt with the first onslaught of the contractions, gripping on to the mantlepiece, head bowed, wincing as she puffed through the pain. He also managed to send hawk with message to Natalie and Auriel hoping that one of them would be near enough to make it in time.

"Although Raymond was dealing with things very calmly, I was so very relieved when I saw Natalie arrive. What is it that no matter how close one is to a man, that having another level-headed woman, a friend like her close could give one that additional reassurance needed? There is something inherent in many women that make them natural healers and comforters...whether they are priestess or druidess by profession or calling that enables them to deal with the day-to-day myriad of problems, hurts, disputes, illnesses..you name it...more rationally and without fuss than the hardiest warrior might deal with the evil monster standing before him. Those tiny battles, those little successes are rarely recognised in the scheme of things. Bard tales only tell of the epic ones."

Natalie hurried in "You sent for me? ... oh dear"
"Natalie! The relief in her voice was evident.

Raymond bowed his head seeing Natalie join them, thanked her and gave her the update. "One of them has turned...the other...not sure if he or she did"

"How long have you been having contractions?" Natalie asked and received a clearer answer from Raymond. Eleanor had obviously lost track of time. Raymond finished the last of the preparations, water now boiling and fresh linens on the bed and nearby.

"Gods Natalie, why is the most natural thing in the world so painful?"
"The baby is of healthy size... which will cause a bit of discomfort, naturally. Now... Would you like to lay down, or do you want to test my skills at catching a slippery baby"

Natalie bade her now to lie on the bed, allowing her to feel the position of the baby whose head was now well down.

She squeezed Natalie's hand "You don't know how glad I am you're here...its....scary...wonderful..but..scary"
"Ah, yes.. but while the scary part only lasts a few hours, the wonderful part will last a lifetime." Natalie smiled at her then glanced up at Raymond. "And how are you doing?"

"Fine" he responded, telling her he was ready to do all that was necessary.

"Have you seen the birth of a baby before? Things are going to get... messy. Are you going to be okay with that?
"I will" he nodded to her "I got two buckets here if need be"

Eleanor puffed out her cheeks, her breath short, she was panting and then emitted a loud shreek as the next contraction hit, close now to the last, and her nails dig sharply into Ray's hand.
"Mind you...the buckets are for her" He did not flinch at all, only blinked as he felt her nails in his hand and used his free hand to stroke her hair gently.

"Aye... Fathers tend to pass out rather than get sick" Natalie quipped as she washed her hands at the basin. "Not this one Nat..." he grinned.

Her chest heaved, her face was flushed and she brought her knees up instinctively with the next contraction, the skirts to her light shift riding up on her legs. Puffing alot and still attempting to control her breathing though without alot of success.

"He...he's brought animals...into this world Nat..." she chuckled wildly between panting.
Natalie smiled "I figured you are stronger than that, but sometimes itis different when it is a loved one"

"Okay, dear. I am going to need to take a look now."
"Fine..fine...." she panted "Feel like I want to push...should ..should I push yet?"
"Oh yes... You can start pushing when you're ready. When the next contraction starts, take a deep breath and push for the count of ten"

And it began in earnest. Raymond held her hand, brushing the damp locks from her forehead, taking her nails digging into his hand at each scream of pain with calm. Natalie encouraging her from below, checking for the baby, and providing the words of support and clear instruction when to push and when to breath. With a loud scream and a screech of swear words she had learnt from the other less well bred slave girls, she pushed hard and long. Natalie felt and guided the head, helping to ease the slimy, blood covered baby out shifting it into Ray's hands.

The baby was out, along with an alarming amount of blood and fluids, running off the linens and onto the floor. Natalie swiftly cut the umbilical cord as Ray then slapped it to make it breath and cry, wiping it with moist clothe and wrapping it in linens. Eleanor's eyelashes fluttered open, she wearily glanced over.

"Hang on dear" Raymond spoke calmly. "He is coming.."
"He? Eleanor smiled tiredly "A son..."
Natalie smiled warmly "Aye. The first baby is a boy. He sounds healthy too."
She choaked back a sob as she received first real glimpse of their son, Raymond handing the bundle now to her.
"See? The pain was worth it, right? Natalie grinned happily at her.

She saw their baby boy, he was a healthy size, his features similar to any newborn babe, but the tiny mouth, surely it's shape belonged to her and the soft hairs to his head, hinted at his father's dark colouring. His tiny hands reached out into the air as it cried. Her eyes were moist as she watched him, moved her fingers over him to check for herself that all was well. "He's...gorgeous..."

"Oh yes Natalie...he is worth that pain..."
Natalie smiled, having already known the answer.

Nature Finds a Way - Part 2

"Now, let's see how your other little one is doing?" Natalie placed her hands on either side of Eleanor's still-large belly then looked up to meet Raymond's eyes, her concern clearly showing to him. Raymond hid his own concern from Eleanor, simply stroking her hair, giving her encouraging words. "You did great my love..and I know you will do great again". Eleanor, with some reluctance then handed their son to him with a weary smile, telling them that she felt the second baby on its way.

After ensuring the boy was well wrapped so as not to catch cold he asked if there was anything more he could do, knowing the next would be hard.

"Aye, this one will be more difficult. I won't lie Ray... it's risky" Natalie replied.

Eleanor was taking deep breaths, her body weakened and weary now from the first birthing, feeling a contraction coming on, but something felt different from the first.

"What can I do Nat? It is not like a doe.....I can not reach in and help it turn..

Eleanor grunted in heavy pain and involuntarily began to bear down as the baby, feet first, decided it was time.

Natalie spoke quietly, calmly but the concern in her voice was evident.
"That 'is' what needs doing, Ray"

Seeing her push they both called out sharply in unison

"No, no, no! No pushing, Eleanor"
"Eleanor, don't!"

After some confusion, the boy-bundle was eventually passed to Natalie and Ray took position between Eleanor's legs. The first crack in their calm was felt as the air became more tense. Eleanor's eye lashes fluttered wildly as the pain became more unbearable this time and she began to lose focus. Natalie laid the boy into the neaby crib.

"Nat...instruct me from distance....same as doe? Yes or no?" and Raymond readied his hands.
"Ray, how would I know? I've never tried to flip a doe!"
"Can I push it back gently? "
"Are you sure you want to do this? Natalie looked at Ray's large hands.
"Do you?"
"If you can tell me you know how to do this....I will let you..."

At that point Eleanor screamed out loud, nearly losing conciousness as her body attempted to expel the baby in its dangerous position with another push but still no success.

"I can... but it's your wife." Eleanor was not his wife, but no one cared at that point to correct. She looked to Eleanor then to see if she had an opinion but Eleanor was breathing shallowly, eyes unfocused and barely registered either of them.
"STOP PUSHING!" Natalie shouted.
"Do it, please..." and Raymond moved to the side himself next to El, monitoring both her and the baby, Natalie switching places.
"Keep her calm, make her stop pushing."
"Eleanor.... I know you are there my love.."he took a deep breath trying to calm his own breathing"..listen to us...stop pushing..listen to my voice...I am taking you to the grove.."though his voice was calm, his eyes were moist as if about to tear. "..follow my voice El.."

Between contractions, Natalie, as gently as she could, slid her hand inside a short way and along the baby's foot and felt for the umbilical cord. Eleanor spoke then, words almost incoherent, an ancient tongue, a few soft words passed her lips. The two tending her could hear her sob and catch part of the mumble that was made in common "..tis nature's way...nature will take its course"

Raymond slipped her hand into his "It will ..Mielikki and Lurue are with us" and he explained to Natalie that he thought she was talking to the Ancient One in her mind, suspecting to garner help to supress the pain."Let me know when you need her in the here and now..." he urged.

Nature Finds a Way - Part 3

"This is not the ideal..but it is not the worst case either...far far from it my love. Nature found a way to save us both.

"Our bond is new...not fully tested....you could not predict or prevent all that happened...you are not miracle worker...what you did do... ..was help me to save her."
Before their eyes then, having made her quiet mumbled chant subconsciously with those druidic words, her body appeared to melt before their eyes, taking a shape none had seen before. Her human form slid to watery mass, held together by a viscous membrane.

Raymond recognised it for what it was and attempted to reassure "Nature...taking over. Do not fear Natalie! It is still Eleanor" Natalie still had her hand inside Eleanor feeling around for the baby and cord, seeing the shift, she blinked and gasped, stunned for a moment.

Eleanor, to ease the birth, with the last vestages of conscious thought had taken a form that would help the most, both to ease the pain and lessen the risk of fatality. The babe however was weak and itself turned and shifted shape along with the mother to the watery form. Slowly but slowly, its outward passage was eased...and another smaller "puddle" form slid forward to the edge of the greater water elemental that was Eleanor linked only by a thin length of membrane.

Natalie looked on in bewilderment, Raymond placed his hands around the gently rippling shape of their child to contain it. He saw the membrane weak, slowly thinning before his eyes. The atmosphere was tense in the bedroom of the lodge as Raymond and Natalie considered their next steps. Should Ray break this 'cord'? Or should he keep it intact?

"I can't cut the cord..." he pointed to the length of membrane, now only a centimetre in thickness from the couple of inches it had been earlier I suspect, this is the cord ... the babe, is weak....

"But... like this? Shouldn't she .. you know.. change back first?"

Eleanor wobbled weakly in her own shape, they would surmise that she was still unfocused, dazed and unable to respond to them.

"I would hope El would shift back.....and with it.....the babe" Raymond stated, then shouted towards her as he still held the blob of viscous baby in his hands "ELEANOR! you have done what you needed, shift back!" but he got no response from her and the line of cord stretched and thinned again.

"Yes, but if we separate them now...?" Natalie looked at Ray with obvious worry then turns to Eleanor and yelled "Eleanor, we need you to help shift the baby!"

The bond between Ray and Eleanor was still there, despite her weak state of elemental-body and mind, her thoughts were jumbled but her instincts were true. The image was passed from her to him, a blurry image, an image of a bucket, the thinning membrane and a sense of desperation and urgency. In return, his own image and sense was one of fear and uncertainty regarding the cord. Natalie could only wait, to see if Eleanor would shift back before they could take action to save the water-baby.

The membrane link broke then, too thin and unable to hold sure. Eleanor, responding to both those images, those calls, the pain of this birth no longer, returned to her normal human form, but with the link severed first, the babe remained as water element.

Raymond switching gaze quickly between Eleanor and the "baby", his face pale, gave urgent order "Tend to El..." and holding the wobbling tiny form of their child moved across to the bucket. Eleanor's lids fluttered open and she managed a croak

"Sh..she's weak....help..before we l..lose her"

Ramond checked the temperature of the water in the nearby jugs, satisfied on the warmth added some to the bucket and gently let the water-baby slide into it as well. Natalie focused on helping Eleanor, getting her cleaned up and comfortable, evaluating her internal injuries as something she could deal with, but shot an occasional glance of worry towards Ray. He took care to retain hands around the jelly-like water-baby, difficult though it was, his face showing some anger at himself and concern that it might shift suddenly back to human and drown in the added water. But it soon became obvious that the baby water-blob was comfortable in the additional water and it slowly began to abosrb some of that water into itself, seemingly taking strength from it.

"It's gaining strength...Nat.... see...El used water elemental form..... not sure when this......will end...the form but using the water here strengthened it...."

Natalie still looked a little stunned by what happened " Oh... I saw what happened..."

Natalie placed her hands on Eleanor's abdomen, softly saying a prayer of healing and spreading a healing warmth through her. Feeling the healing, she comes too a little more and tiredly opens her eyes. "Where...where is..she?"

Ray glanced at Eleanor "I am holding her... but she.....maintained water form...I am so sorry I did not understand what you tried to tell me.."

She glanced once towards the quiet son on one side in the crib to the water-blob baby in the bucket in his arms. "Oh"

If Eleanor would have looked to Ray then she could have told from the look in his eyes that he hated himself at that moment. While Natalie stepped over then to check on the son, Ray still held and regarded the blobform of what he could only assume was his 'daughter' from Eleanor's earlier knowledge and sense of her, in his hands within the bucket.

"She lives......she lives Ray...that is enough for now....I felt her weak...dwindling....losing life....my body turned to what it new to bring her to life safely that we both might survive.."

She takes a moment to concentrate on what she knows now to be her daughter, weak but holding her own, she places fingers into the bucket that Ray moves closer and tenderly swirls the viscous fluid within " Our daughter..." She smiled weakly to him then, glancing one more across to watch Natalie tend to the son, hearing him fuss a little. Natalie cradled him in her arms to sooth giving the new parents a moment to bond with the baby-water girl.

"You can release her into the water Ray...she will be fine." Eleanor knew that the child was not going to shift to human form anytime soon and drown in the water. Raymond let go his careful hold of the baby-elemental while Natalie brought the son closer, but he had fallen back to sleep. Raymond was showing the strain and tiredness, his release of the daughter and Eleanor's words of assurance suddenly hitting him allowing him to relax a bit. He sat next to Eleanor and laid a kiss to her brow.

"El....? When will she....shift?"

Eleanor shifted her head from Ray and their daughter rippling in the bucket near them to Natalie standing to the side of the bed holding their son. She gave a sigh. "I don't know Ray...I am not sure she can for herself..but...let me think on it some more when I am less exhausted..."

"So... What will you call them?" Natalie asked softly.

"The one you hold....is for the other member of our family ..we name him..." Her eyes flicked to Raymond's, waiting for him to speak. This was for him.

"Lyran"

Natalie nodded and smiled "Lyran.. That's lovely. And... the girl?" Her eyes flicked to the bucket and quicky away again.

"And for this little girl child-to-be....." She swirled her fingers again around the fluid "..She will be Arianna, after my grandmother.."

"Do you think you can sit up for a little bit? Lyran should spend some time with you - get to know you from the outside, so to speak." Natalie waited until she was settled, then gently handed her the baby. Raymond appeared to be struggling with his emotions, close to cracking. Eleanor reached for Lyran and took him from Natalie into her arms, her gaze switching on occasion to the neaby bucket but with the warmth of the son in her arms, smelling of human baby, she cuddled with him, taking longer this time to make that bonding. Raymond bent to kiss their son on his forehead, then El and then looking teary eyed into the bucket, caressed their daughter gently.

Natalie smiled "It was a long day for him as well, but he... " She hesitated, then corrected herself .." 'they' will both need to bond with you - with you both. " She glanced to Ray with a worried look who then rose slowly and with a guilty look to the two women left the room to head outside, his emotions finally overwhelming him.

Eleanor watched as Raymond left the room, wondering and frowning slightly, then sighed. "It could have been...alot worse."

"It could have been very much worse, that is true." They could both hear him, but one was unable to move to go comfort, the other, obviously thought it best just to let the man handle it in his own way and stayed put.

"I don't know how to help you take care of the baby girl - you'll have to tell me what she needs for the next few days, until you can get up on your feet again."
"Natalie...I am not sure either...but I do know this....nature will find a way....."

"I..know what I did...and I am sorry if I scared you Natalie...I hope you will forgive me?
Ray walked back in then after taking a moment in the kitchen first to splash water in his face

"There is nothing to apologise for, Eleanor. You did what you had to, to save yourself and the baby. now... it was quite unexpected for me, yes, but... I was pretty worried that we were going to lose one of you, so... it worked out just fine. "

With motherly instinct Eleanor brought Lyran to her breast, having slipped down the top of her shift, encouraging him to try to feed, she looked up to Natalie with a smile "I cant' thank you enough for your help Natalie...two delivered safely and healthy enough"

"I..am going to have to do some....research.....tomorrow " She yawned watching her son suckle "...how does one feed a water elemental?"

Raymond suggested water from the grove, Eleanor thought to ask those of the Circle. Natalie helped a little further in clearing up before heading off to the room Raymond had prepared for her in their lodge, leaving the weary pair alone with their newborn children.

Nature Finds a Way - Part 4

"This is just another trial to deal with..and we will...together..I heard your words...you were there for us...every step of the way love...do not doubt that

"She will come to us.....her path is but a bit longer....I have faith in that...."

"Father how does that sound?

"It sounds...almost..complete"

"She is with us now my love...just not as..many expect a child of human form to be

"How does....mother...sound?"

"It sounds.....wonderful....I have...family finally, real family. And a daughter I ...I always wanted a daughter...." she cuddled Lyran again gently "..but I ...must say having son too is rather lovely also"

"He has your mouth..... "
"I believe he has your eyes.....and he is dark...I ...I wonder what Arianna will ...." her eyes flicked again to the bucket "..eventually look like?"

"I...can't describe to you what I felt holding her in the water.."

She simply cupped his cheek with her palm, and leaned her forehead to his, her own eyes wet with tears, understanding his emotion. She gently soothed and stroked his cheek, a slight touch, a tender one, a knowing one, She kept her silence, letting him release those emotions, simply being there for him

As I lay on the bed, exhausted, he opened the windows wide so I could see out, from his belongings he placed the crown that Dael Silverleaf had given him upon his head, picked up Lyran and the bucketful of Arianna and stepped outside a distance but keeping in my full view from the bed.

In the moonlight, all natural sounds seemed to then come to silence. I saw Raymond kneel, son in arms, daughter in her container placed to the ground. He then tipped back his head and gave rise to a loud wolven howl towards the moon that resounded around the forest, perhaps wider. It was as though he was sending out a message. Some moments after as if they had already been close and waiting, from out of the bushes Sasha appeared, leading her kinfolk and from the other side, Decha lumbered up closely followed by a pack of bear, brown and black. The bears made full circle after the wolves, then taking seat behind the wolves all appeared then to lower their heads as mark of respect towards Raymond and the babies.

Silence reigned again until then upon the air the sound of flapping wing was heard, all manner of birds landed in the nearby branches...eagles.....hawks.....sparrows....big and small.

I saw Raymond bow his head in nod to acknowledge all those who had gathered and there followed an orchestra of howls, roars and bird like sounds, their callings being their welcoming of new life into the world. The birds linked to this family as messengers, the bears and wolves symbolising the unification of Raymond and Eleanor as their family.

The sounds diminished slowly and Raymond bowed his head once more to them. No longer wishing to be apart, I slid out of the bed and slowly, stifly, made my way outside towards the gathering.

My voice was soft, husky with tears as I regarded the scene "It is as it should be..." I smiled warmly, taking it all in and somehow the remaining exhaustion and pain left me for that moment in the company of them all.

"I have been given three gifts today..." he spoke quietly to her ear
"Lyran, Arianna and..?" she smiled.
"You."

Nature Finds a Way - Part 5

We are both in agreement to keep quiet on this until we have better understanding of how to proceed. It is still too sensitive for us and not many would understand. I can see the uncertainty in Natalie's eyes and while she is happy to cuddle and take care of Lyran, I will not ask more of her in caring for Arianna other than to ensure the container is safe and to check that she continues to ripple actively within.

After that moonlight 'serenade' of the animals and companions, we retired to bed to sleep for a few hours before Lyran would surely awake for his second feed. In the early hours of the morning, Natalie slipped in quietly and with bleery eyed permission from us took the sleeping boy and the container again outside, whispering something about letting them see their first sunrise and a blessing from the morning lord.

Raymond brings fresh water from the grove daily, but her feeds are needed less regularly than Lyran requires to take milk from my breast. The water appears to stimulate and she seems to gain strength from this source and the minerals it contains. I only hope that the keepers and brethren will not mind that we take although we have not asked.

Raymond, bless him, enjoys the time he spends in 'feeding' her and I let him do the most of it, share that responsibility as only I can tend to Lyran. Much as I wish to hold Arianna as human form in my arms, see her human face and little body, bathe, feed and tend to her as any 'normal' (I wince as I say that, but what else can I say?) baby, having her as water elemental instead of human baby is less of a burden in a way ...Lurue do not smite me for saying so.

Our next step is to gain wisdom from the Ancient One first and soon we will search and call him to us in ritual, failing that, to talk to our most trusted friends and gain their wisdom. Our actions so far sustain her life but we have no knowledge of what to expect next.

Meanwhile, there is much going on around us with the Nashkel cause, rumour of evil shadow weavers and necromancers, cruel summoning of animal for game and sport in the City, Circle council meeting to attend....much of which we should like to assist with, but with our new family and concerns, I am not sure how much we can help. We will do what we can.

More bits n bobs

Once we've figured out what to do about Arianna, we must have a celebration for the twins. Valer gave us a nice bottle of that peculiar firewine Jhuild? I promised we would save it for such an occasion.

Isenduil kindly gave me gift of new cloak. It has protective abilities that are good to have. I was not one to wear cloak before but....I will this one I think..it was a thoughtful gift.

Raymond has found new depths to his abilities as ranger..but we need to learn how to apply it 'together' ..I have no means to know which direction he shoots off in if he takes to the shadows too soon. Once in the mountains he did that and I just had to stand there and shout his name into the snowy distance as I could not follow his tracks that easily. I moved towards the sounds of fighting and managed to help in the end. Its a learning process for both.

He spoke briefly to me of a dangerous mission that Galen had talked to him about. Neither of us could contemplate taking on that level of risk just now, not with our own family to see to. From the little I heard about, it did not sound like circle business exactly. Tis between those two now. I hope they will sort it out with no ill will.

I ran with Dael Silverleaf for a short while, exploring areas I had not ventured into before. It was an eyeopener to train with another ranger not Raymond, without that close bond. I should try it more often to hone my own skills and to learn to anticipate and match another's style. Good practice.

Keeper's Apprentice

From lonely novice to Keeper's 'apprentice' and protector of the Elder Circle. Now...now I can really begin to learn what I know my grandmother would have wanted me to learn, under elven tutelage perhaps but.. I will see what will come of it. My role will be to see to the new Seekers...which will be a challenge...when I am still learning myself what it is to be druid of a Circle. No matter...it is a duty I welcome and I know that others will support and help me to test the newcomers, to see them worthy of joining our ranks.

I have to chuckle. Perhaps it is premature to look upon Galenael as that father figure I never had...but of all the druids, I see him more frequently - he has more years and experience on me without doubt..they all have seen more than I - that it is natural to see him as mentor.

It would be easier that it were Tarsahk as mentor in some ways...as, generally, I feel more comfortable with other human or those of celestial bloodline. An elf though....my dealings with elves to this point is limited and of the male elf...even more so. But a male is a male is a male whatever the race and there are many moments I see the similarities to any human male whether it be in his anger or his humour. He already has my respect for his abilities and his handling of situations...and I will be direct and honest with him... I have no qualm to tell him what I think, blurt it out if I disagree with his methods even with my level of knowledge and wisdom. I hope I am no "Yes" woman...challenge thinking both to learn and to ensure...that the interest of the Circle, the family, my extended-family...is always at the forefront of our minds as we debate whatever our personal situations at the time might be.

Time is running out I fear. Arianna grows in size and her membrane strengthens. Raymond is to build new container to keep her. I have given some deep thought as to how to bring her back to human form but have had no time privately with the Ancient One or key druids to seek their knowledge or wisdom. I do not know the risk of acting out what is in my mind...I only know that if something is not attempted soon, she may stay as water elemental until, like Tarsahk once spoke of, if we are lucky she will find the way herself when she comes of that age...so many years away from now..just thinking of it makes me want to...cry. I yearn to hold her as baby girl in my arms...I yearn so much that it hurts...

The Body and A Reprimand

She burned the body in the grove, set it alight with flame from spell and watched it burn in silence. Raymond was standing to the side watching the procedings. Retrieving a container and the Wyrm Syrge she then gathered the ashes into the container mixing it with the Wyrm Syrge. Casting a variety of protective wards over the container she locked it and took it to Galenael's chamber, leaving it on the desk. A brief note left, simple, curt: "The remains of Red lie within, as instructed. Eleanor". And without backward glance she left that chamber.

As she passed Raymonds dark form she said "It's done. I am heading home, I have children to feed." her tone, flat and tired. Outside the grove she shifted to bear, ran and with heavy claw swiping annoying goblins, gnolls and lizards out of her path ran back to the lodge.

Don't argue...don't fight...yes sir...yes master...give in...it will hurt less...obey...go deep into your mind and you will learn not to care...close your heart, deal with the physical, protect the mind, try not to feel...mind over matter

Circumstances delayed the performance of this duty. I knew its importance. I had it in mind to deal with it and was headed for the grove with Baalio, a stroll with Pledge and Raymond in that direction when pouff! I must have walked into some careless mage's temporary portal and I was transported, alone, clothed only in dress, no weapon to hand right into the middle of the Ice Keep in the south! I used the bond to call for help to Raymond and stood still and quiet...gathering my thoughts and courage. I could hear a giant nearby. Quietly as I could I mumbled those druidic words that summoned my elemental friends, cast protective spell and whisked out my spear. It was long battle but I managed to tumble one to the ground when Raymond eventually appeared at my side, breathless and commanding me to stay close, escorted me out of that treacherous place.

After running full pelt down the mountain, we reached Beregost and paused there, once again meeting up with Pledge and Baalio. Pledge seemed troubled, it had been a while since I had spoken with him and there is still more to learn of that man, so we sat for an hour or so talking, trying to lift his spirits, Baalio suggesting he pay for the company of a woman to sort him out, me trying to figure out why this man is unhappy by determining what is it that makes him happy and to focus on that. I used the time listening to his words to make a buttercup chain and, as I placed the finished crown to Raymond's head, Galenael walked up seeking Baalio. He was not interested in explanation for the delay of carrying out the task. With little word other than to assure Pledge I would talk more of things later I left the group with scant goodbye to any of them as I walked off towards the grove. Yes I was miffed and I am sure it was obvious...no I know it was obvious as a starling brought me a note of reprimand from Galen as I walked on.

So I escape into my mind, shut it all out, try not to feel, try not to care, tend to the grove duty, tend to my children, do as I am instructed and as nature requires, give no more time than is strictly necessary to anything else. What does it matter that he thinks me rude and a slacker, what do I care? I feel less inclined than ever to seek his help now for Arianna and I know that is not wise....but I cannot help it. Raymond is taking the brunt of my 'mood' now.. I see it, but I don't know how to stop it, I am shutting him out too.

Arianna...

Restless, she slipped from their bed, from his arms in the early hours of the morning to go sit by the container. As she swirled the elemental gently with her fingers several tears fell silently into the water.

Preparations

We focused upon Arianna after making our peace.

We talked..and talked...and...he made me see that just as I have told him not to go it alone...nor should I do the same. With gentle words of persuasion and love did he bring my focus back to the here and now and open those shutters again...slowly.

It is going to happen again...I will quite likely make wrong step, be shouted at or reprimanded again...and sometimes I will deal with it, fight back in temper or just shrug off and accept, but sometimes...with the mental stress of all that is going on...I can't and my instincts and reactions take me back to the past. It is going to take time...but I will get there. No point in trying to explain this to others, they will do what they percieve to be right for them at the time and I will just have to manage for myself..no...manage with my family.

After the dinner I had made, we spoke of Arianna and I told Raymond what I felt and believed to be possible and why I knew that time was running out. I don't speak from experience only from inherent sense and instinct. I doubt there are any books written up on dealing with druidic elemental babies. After discussing my thoughts on the risks, Raymond surprised me by saying that we do it, that he would help....there is no reason why we could not do it tomorrow.

He is right...no more delay, with each further point and part of the discussion I became more convinced...we cannot wait for the elders or Ancient One to become free to consult...they have more important things to deal with...we should not trouble them with this.

After feeding Lyran and Arianna, we made start on the preparations with the aim to head to the grove the day after the morrow at early light, a time we hoped when it would be quieter, that we could slip unnoticed into one of the side chambers that has a pool.

Nature Finds a Way - Part 6

The Ancient One wrote:
The Ancient One, in his customary enormous bear form, catches Eleanor and Raymond glancing at him from time to time. He lumbers over to them and looks each in the eyes with his own piercing green orbs for quite some time. Finally he sits back on his hind legs and speaks.

"I sense you wish to speak to me. I assume it has to do with your daughter?"

Mausman wrote: *Raymond meets those piercing eyes with his own and he kneels down, his hands, palms upwards, resting on his thighs*

Yes...oh ancient one....*his voice husky due to emotion, glancing to Eleanor and then towards the Ancient One again...*

*Raymond lowers his voice...and explains the difficulties which occured during the birth...and how their daughter now still is in water elemental form...*

We....thought up a way that might work to...have her shift back....we....did not wish to bother you.....there are far more greater concerns that require your attention......but....should you have the time to.....possibly enlighten us as to what we can do to have her back in her human form......we would be eternally gratefull.......*shooting a hopefull glance at The Ancient one*

*she moves to kneel beside Raymond facing the great bear that is the Ancient One, her eyes anxious as she bows her head in respect, she speaks quietly in a low voice*

Ancient One....thank you for sparing time to listen. Tis true...your guidance and knowledge on how to help Arianna is important. We...*she looks to Raymond to gain assurance to speak of this most senstive of subjects for them*...seek to attempt...a rebirth...of sorts

Mausman wrote: *Raymond nods encouragingly to Eleanor and slips his hand in hers*

*Bowing his head in front of The Ancient One*

We.....thought to try to have Eleanor and Arianna both in water elemental form....me aiding them...using a pool in one of the grove´s secluded chambers.....try to have them re-establish their link and have Eleanor try to get Arianna to shift back with Eleanor.....while I maintain a hold of Arianna.....*he spoke softly*

The Ancient One wrote:
The huge bear nods his head once, looking between the two.

"Yes, your daughter takes after her mother. She has a strong tie with nature, and already has discovered the form that feels most natural for her. Like Eleanor with the bear or myself with the tree or Galen with the wolf..."

At this he looks directly at Raymond.

"Or you yourself with the wolf, Raymond...your daughter's natural affinity is with the water. Eleanor, you must shift to match her form and bind with her. It may take several tries, so do not give up hope. Have others of the Circle help you; I will if you so choose. While you are bonded together show her the way to this form you use before me. Raymond you are right to be there to hold her, to show her what this form has to offer. If she is resistant do not give up hope; you have guide her as best you can and have faith that the Oak Father will aid you. Do not be discouraged in either of these lives your bodies have created. "

*she smiles tentatively* I hear your words Ancient One...and will take that path and help that may be available....thank you *it is evident she is overcome with heavy emotion and speaks no further, squeezing her hand tightly into Raymond's for comfort*

Mausman wrote: *squeezes Eleanor´s in an assuring way*

Thank you...Ancient one......discouraged.....we are not....but a mother is likely to long for her daughter....to nurture it as it was meant to be.....though we are gratefull that nature intervened as to save...and preserve.....

We will do as you say, Ancient one.....*he inclined his head*

Thank you yet again for your wisdom......

Seekers and Tasks

I met with Phelan Shadowtop, a shadow weir, follower of dual path of druid and ranger, a half elf who was brought up with the wolves. No wonder he and Raymond found common ground so easily. Galen'ael had already seen to the first part of his test to join the Circle and I took the time to get acquainted myself and find out how he had gotten on with that task. Conclusion: admirably. His path is an interesting one, something that personally fascinates me, so I know what second task I will set and will contact him soon.

Another happened upon us, having been sent to find me by Galen'ael. Toshiro his name, an elf hailing from the far east, follower of the Oak Father with magificent black panther at his side as companion. The Warden Silverleaf was with myself and Phelan as he arrived and brought message that he sought a "Lady Eleanor" being led to believe she would have long dark hair and be wearing brown. Another test of the trickster Galen...I couldn't help but grin. How to test a seeker go find another? By giving him wrong instruction and seeing if he would still find his mark. Galen's humour makes my lips twitch sometimes. Same for Dael. He tried to pass himself off to Toshiro as simple Seeker as well. I find their little teases and tests odd but amusing. I prefer straightforward and honest approach myself...and yet a certain ranger might say I am the biggest tease out there.

I threw myself into Dennis' arms when I saw him approach our gathering, it has been a long while since I last did but could give him scant time having to complete my talks with the Seekers and rush home to the children. I caught up a little and told him to come stay at the lodge when he has completed his tasks, Natalie was staying with us after all...only fitting he should come too. I warned him of the state of Arianna, and asked for his secrecy, that very soon, possibly on the morrow, Raymond and I would be making attempt to help her change.

Nature Finds a Way - Part 7

She finished her prayer to Lurue and listened to his quiet words to Mielikki as they sat there calmly in the grove pool of the side chamber. They were both naked, no barrier to the water, natural as the day they were both born. Arianna, burbled quietly too in the container to the side. They both meditated, breathing calmly, deeply, each laying back to the water so that it covered their ears and simply listened to the sound of the falls reverberating beneath the pool as it fell and bubbled at the side of this grove pool. But they kept a touching contact with leg or arm, focusing on that bond, until their breathing was as if as one.

"You...ready?" she lifted her head from the water as he did a moment after.

"I am...are you?"

She nodded and, after helping him bring the container filled with Arianna-the-water-baby down into the water, with a softly spoken druidic chant she shifted. Her body transforming into the watery mass of elemental. She''d given her advice, he knew what he had to do, for once she was in elemental form, there would be no more words.

Using his hands he guided Arianna's form into the grove water and the container was pushed aside. Supporting her carefully he then moved her towards the mass that was Eleanor. As the two masses touched, so the smaller began to absorb into the larger until after a few moments there was simply only the one. Minutes passed, Raymond could only watch and hope as the water elemental before him appeared to be actively moving and flowing within the confines of the outer membrane.

I was sensing her...taking my time once she was absorbed to feel her. Firstly, to make her once again a part of me fully, then, with my wisdom, will and concentration, to extract that which was now 'her' again and help her to reshape but this time with a stronger bond and link. Finding and making that link again was a challenge...but eventually it was there. Once I felt it stable, and I was confident of her shape being strong and complete within me, I began to push her out, her mass bulging forward and into his waiting hands. He held her beneath the water, as the membrane length linking us both became thinner and stretched, so the grove water this time supported and ultimately strengthened it. We managed to achieve, through the grace of our goddesses and the help of the warm and blessed properties of the grove water, a stable environment this time. And also, this time, I was not sapped by the pain of a first childbirth followed by a breach position of the second, and had the energy and the will to make this work.

Satisfied of Raymond's hold and the stable connection, she shifted back to human form, allowing her energies of the shift to filter through the membrane length to Arianna. Her powers received, carefully guided, the baby water elemental shifted with her into a human girl child, the link transforming to umbilical between the girl's belly to Eleanor's womb. Raymond lifted Arianna out of the water and, as if truly a newborn, slapped her on the bottom to make her breath air for the first time. He took care of the cord and afterbirth as Eleanor rested, oddly exhausted from the transformation, she could only look on as he managed all the tasks of a midwife. But soon enough, Arianna was in her arms and the tears of joy streamed down her cheeks. She lay back against Raymond's chest the three of them still in the water, just holding each other as the stress of the last few weeks was over and the remnants of worry washed away by the soothing grove water and the tears they both shed and the comfort found in that embrace.