Conversations

Speaking with the Maahes and Ailuros, 1193 late spring
After knocking and hearing the call to enter Cirice steps into Ailuros and Maahes’ abode. As usual with her visits she found herself admiring their sense of style in the place and wondered just how comfortable the pillows were to creatures made of metal. “Hello again, it is always good to see you both,” she says in greeting, “I thought I would check how you were both doing and make sure the man the council had come speak with you wasn’t too rude or greedful.”

Both Cats were pouring over several open tomes, speaking in a language she did not recognise; it was not like any European language she had ever heard in her lifetime. Upon hearing Cirice, both stopped and looked up from their work with cat-like grins upon their faces. Maahes walked across the cush table the pair was seated upon whilst reading and sat upon the edge as he greeted Cirice, Ailuros not far behind him. ''“Greetings young Sorceress, that is mighty gracious of you. The young man who came to see us did attempt to out play us, however after a discussion with him, we concluded that he didn't want our wealth to keep, he was more interested in the act of gaining it. As such we spent the next few hours discussing this, overall I think it was an evening well spent.”'' Maahes stated as he preened his metallic fur.

“Indeed, the young gentlemen was rather bemusing for us to attend too, however Maahes is rather good at speaking in riddles so it was bemusing to watch the pair” Ailuros continued as she padded over to Cirice sitting next to her golden counterpart, “I assume Miss Cirice that you haven't just visited us only to see how we are?”

Ailuros beckoned Cirice to sit in a comfortable chair that was clearly oversized so that both metallic cats could sit on either side of the occupant in comfort themselves. The mage did so, holding off comment at how small she felt sitting there. It was at least comfortable and the cats were good company.

“He is an unusual one, that I am coming to learn for myself. His company can indeed be quite enjoyable,” Cirice remarks, “I’m glad you came to an agreement. Making sure you are comfortable here is important to me but no, that isn’t the only reason. Do you remember my ongoing search and the temple of light I mentioned? I was wondering if you had uncovered or perhaps recalled anything more about it?”

Once Cirice was comfortable in the chair, both cats jumped onto their own seats stations on the chairs arms. Once they had settled themselves, Maahes began speaking, his ruby eyes glistening. ''“We believe we have located a site with a connection to the ‘Temple of Light’; within our research we discovered no mention in anything resembling what you and Duros were trying to locate. We concluded that it cannot be a creation of Arthurian Albion nor were there any records within more classical texts, such as those left by the Sons of Romulus.”''

''“Indeed, after concluding that these groups were not involved with the Temple, we decided instead to look into groups which had occupied these isles within the very ancient past. This left us with only two real groups to research; the Druids of the Old Religion or the Ancient Sea Peoples,”'' Ailuros continued from where her husband began as she gestured to the tome which sat carefully upon the table in front of them. Upon the table in front of Cirice was an incredibly ancient book, the spine of which had long since fallen apart, however it was kept together with strange metallic bindings. The page it was opened too showed a series of islands that had been beautifully drawn, strange symbols covered the outer borders of the pages seemingly making words or sentences. “This book was recovered from the Great Library at Alexandria before its destruction by the Romans… And someone else…”

Maahes coughed lightly, trying to cover his embarrassment at the accusatory look his wife turned his way. ''“Ahh yes, The book is one of the last reminisce of the Sea Peoples left after the Cataclysm which caused the destruction of their empire and civilization. The Text is difficult to make out, however it does speak of “A Temple Located Within the Light”, we believe that this might be what you and Duros were looking for, it also might be what those Ascians are also looking for as well?”''

Cirice brightens at the initial news and listens intently, having grown accustomed to the strangeness by now, her gaze turning to the book as it is brought up. She had long wondered idly where the pair kept such tomes when not making use of them and where they had obtained them all from but that wasn't really her concern. She keeps her amused smile at the mention of the great library to herself and nods, before growing uncertain at the following statements. "The Sea Peoples? You clearly mean a group far older than Lyoness but I cannot say for sure I know who you mean.. At a guess that sounds nigh impossible to reach or even locate easily given the sea is one of the more powerful forces in our world. While that news comforts me with the fact the Ascians may still be searching themselves, I feel disheartened as to my chances.."

The two cats chuckled softly at the news. As always Maahes spoke first. ''“We are not surprised you have little information on the Sea Peoples, they are ancient even in comparison to us. They far predate the Sons of Rome and indeed the ancient peoples of Lyoness. However we believe that remnants of their ancient empire were discovered by those that came afterwards and were then either rebuilt or repurposed. Yes Indeed, we think that might be in-part due to why Gwaelod was able to survive whatever almost caused its destruction. We believe Morfran used some relic of the Sea Peoples to shelter Gwaelod after Seithenyn caused it to be swallowed by the Seas.”'' Maahes gestured to his wife to continue.

''“Luckily for you, we dont believe that the ‘Temple of Light’ is located under the sea, nor do we believe that other artefacts of this ancient empire are lost either. Whilst they may have been called ‘The Sea Peoples’ this is due to the fact that they were a maritime empire; our creator spoke of them attacking his homeland is the very ancient past, and only the full might of the ancient world was able to push them back,” Ailuros continued as she gestured again to the book on the table in front of the group, “This map in front of you, is a copy of a map that was created by “The Sea Peoples”, it shows Albion before the cataclysm. On the very southern coast there is a marking indicating a settlement or outpost containing a temple. After comparing this with several other maps, we have concluded that this settlement is located on Ouiktis."'' Ailuros finished, she seemed to bream with an air of accomplishment.

"I can't say I even knew there were maritime empires so far back.. Once again your breadth of knowledge and ability to research amazes me," Cirice looks from Ailuros to Maahes and back, "Use of magic capable of saving Gwaelod would more than explain their ability to manage such an empire however. It would be amazing to have seen such a time when magic was less hidden.” She shifts position to look at the map before turning a bright smile to Ailuros. The name hadn’t meant anything but the map itself was clear. “I am again worried I have fallen behind the Ascians but it is good to know where I should look now. This is unlikely to be an easy trip but certainly worth it. Was there any indication as to what this ‘light’ the temple was located in or what purpose the place has? Or even what relics might be stored there?” Cirice pauses, looking apologetic as her own excitement.

''“You are most welcome young Sorceress, the sights of the old empires were truly wonders to behold. Even the Sons of Rome created wonders with magic that pale in comparison to the modern day. The spread of the Christ God has diminished much in the world, we believe that magic has begun to fade as so much has already been lost. However it should be noted, that even with all their magical might and power, The Sea Peoples were not able to stave off their own destruction, so perhaps there is a lesson to be learnt there?”'' Maahes' tone had drifted into the melancholic, but soon returned to his usual joviality. ''“I would not worry that you are too far behind these Ascians, otherwise why would this Emet-Selch or Lahabrea require not only Duros, but us in order to locate these places of power. I think they are more in the dark in this matter than you realise, however they do seem to be privy at times to ancient lore”'' By the end Maahes was looking quite smug at knowing more information than a group of hedge magi.

''“As for what the Temple could contain or its association with Light? Hmm… that is difficult to say. We know for starters that the Temple on Ouiktis is not the Temple of Light, but does have a connection to it. We also know that all references to these Temples came After the cataclysm that sundered the Sea Peoples. It could be that these were places where they attempted to rebuild their empire and failed or they were where the scattered remains of their empire decided to seek refuge,”'' Ailuros continued from where her husband began, before both cats give Cirice an inquisical look as to her thoughts.

Cirice nods her agreement in regard to the downturn in magic brought on by the christians. “That is part of why I seek to find items with powers such as the cauldron. They should be treasured and kept safe. As for my worry, I try not to underestimate those as dangerous as the Ascians, even if they are less illuminated than I think. Perhaps the Sea Peoples would have survived if they were as cautious?” she chuckles and shakes her head, “Without knowing the cataclysm I feel I cannot add to that discussion well. A connection to a temple suggests more than simple refuge however unless their deity helped protect small communities..”

''“An admirable quest, treasures of the past should be protected. We just wish there was more that could be done, in the days of our youth, aura of magic were everywhere, within cities and in the landscape without. Maybe however, there is still change this fate if actions are met.”''

''“I agree with Maahes, maybe if man and his indomitable spirit saw that magic was needed in the world, maybe the world would still have much colour within. Your actions in regards to the Ascians hold much wisdom however, it is always better to overestimate your opponent than to underestimate them.”''

''“Our creator told us that the Sea Peoples were consumed by a flood sent by jealous gods and were consumed in one day and night of fire and water. However you are right in your assumption that a connection to the Temple indicates a structured group, the treasures or items within could hold secrets far beyond what magi believe if possible. Even a single item like a ‘Transmission Mirror’ would be a find worth of celebrating.”'' As usual the two cats were getting excitedly distracted at the possibility of what ancient lore could be discovered from Cirice’s investigations

“If man believed magic was essential we would see more fey, but sadly people's imaginations are stifled.. Such is the world we live but I do hope for change." Cirice gives a small shrug, tending towards caution than oftimism. As for relics such like that, they pose the additional problem of safe transport and security. Where would one even begin to store something like that? I certainly don’t know.. I am hardly qualified to safeguard more than the Cauldron and my advantage there is that others underestimate its power, unlike less unique items such as a Transmission Mirror.”

The two cats briefly share a look, their faces unreadable. ''“We disagree young Sourceress, we believe you are more than capable to protect the magic of the ancient world. True, more knowledge is always good, but action is more powerful than words. Mankind in time will remember that fantasies and magic are required for them, and we will be waiting to help them understand this.”''

“You are quite correct however that the Cauldron would be easier to protect than a ‘Transmission Mirror’, it's a shame that most people don't know how to use them correctly, this has caused the death or warping of many a magi,” Ailuros intejected nonchalantly as she scratch behind her ear, “However, think of what other knowledge could be located within these Temples; ancient tomes of magic and history, items created when magic was still fresh in the world or even relics from a time when the mighty titans still roamed the universe ordering creation with their magic.” 

''“Indeed, however if you bring these to your home here, what would your sodales say to these relics; would the bird feign interest until you bring something back which garners her attention, would the politician truly keep it secret or inform your whole order placing a target upon your backs, and the blond haired child would likely gush over any relic made of metal you returned with. However, are you willing to risk this to prevent the Ascians or who knows what other groups from locating and using this ancient primaeval magic?”'' Maahes turned from wife to mage, looking into Cirice’s eyes with his ruby ones.

“You flatter me but I know my limits and age, however I do see your point on the power of action. Perhaps I could reconsider my stance but there are those even within my Order who may try to take such powerful items if they were to hear of it, mages I could not stand against..” Cirice sighs, “I wasn’t aware there was a way to avoid warping when using a Transmission Mirror, are there not primarily scrying tools?” Cirice was honestly unsure now and more than a little curious, perhaps even concerned, but she answered Maahes direct question nonetheless. “My interest isn’t in fame, even among my sodales. My house isn’t suited for it. I would keep items of power and historic importance from those who would misuse them but as I say, I am young and inexperienced by mage standards."

"To acknowledge one's lack of knowledge holds more wisdom than it implies, those with power will always try to enforce it upon those without, however those without can beat even the gods upon a battlefield of their choosing. To act in preservation of the past and not for fame, power or glory is a noble endeavour, we were correct to place our trust in you. However I recommend that you start on your own quest for strength, it might be needed in the days to come.” Maahes stated, his tone elicited with praise and board grin upon his cat-like features.

''“I agree, perhaps your discoveries will change the face of your order or even the world as we know it; however, in the pursuit of knowledge you will find no staucher allies than us. We promised our creator that we would protect and serve the magic of the past, and we shall not abandon an oath made upon the Styx,”'' Ailuros continued, also breaming with pride. Then she gave Cirice a quizzical look, ''“Oh, you were unaware? The Sea People empire held no roads, it was ‘Transmision Mirrors’ that were created to fulfil this function; to take messages and carry peoples and goods hundreds of leagues in an instant. However the creators of this magic created a contingency in case they were captured, they would horrifically warp a target unless they possessed a ring where the excess magic would be captured instead, these rings could even protect whole groups who entered the mirror’s however they were only given to those of great importance."''

“Thank you, that means a lot. I’ll certainly consider strengthening myself when I find the time.. I fear you may indeed be right in its need.” Cirice nods, talking slower now. “Transmission Mirrors hold more power than I knew.. Or perhaps in these days the rings could be considered the power. Unfortunately I didn’t know this, but transporting such a mirror seems beyond dangerous.” Cirice thinks for a moment before speaking again. “Why not have the mirrors refuse to work for strangers? They have a semblance of life.”

Ailuros had taken charge of the conversation now, her voice calm as she spoke of ancient magics. ''“Oh, transporting the Mirrors is easy… well the smaller ones, that is, as you stated they hold an intelligence of their own, simply find a receptacle large enough to house the shards and it will store itself safely within. As for why they didn't hold other defences? Sabotage I would guess, think of it, if a mirror fell into the hands of a king or general, both would use it without a seconds thought if it was easy enough, and in there lies the trap, those who use it would be horrifically warped this making your foe easier to fight against."''

''“You are right however, the rings would be the true treasure, if any survived the Cataclysm. However with the correct knowledge it might be possible to create more, however that art is most definitely lost for the time being. It should be noted that the rings don't completely remove one's taint of magic, instead simply make it less harsh. This is why the Sea Peoples also used ships enchanted with magic for the rest of their empire.”'' Maahes added to his wife's initial explanation.

“I imagined them to be more fragile.. perhaps even delicate.” Cirices looks bemused for a moment as she listens to more. “That reason makes sense. I assumed travel through the mirror was naturally dangerous so no doubt others would as well, especially if they had witnessed extreme warping. Who would look for a key for a box that already appeared open. I assumed as much with the rings, else why have ships if magical transportation was simple and without risk. I am hoping to expand my knowledge of trods to travel easier but that too has its risks.. Is there more on the mirrors that you know?" I’ll admit to knowledge of one so any information would be invaluable.”

''“Oh the Mirrors are still Mirrors so they are in essence still fragile, however that is also where the beauty of their design comes in, the mirrors still work even when as shards, the original mirrors were initially simple large mirrors, over time they became the objects seen today. Smaller ones are simply fragments of the original large mirrors meant to transport enormous cargo’s. I’m afraid our knowledge on them is limited, we did know of a mirror stored in the temple of Vesta in Rome, however during the sacking of the city by the Goths, the mirror was lost after it was placed on a ship in Ostia.”'' Ailuros stated a mournful look upon her

''“Indeed, and you are correct, travelling through the trods can be just as dangerous if not more so due to the facilities of the fae. However I can tell you this, Faerie trods are not the only passages through the realms. It is possible to use regio’s to travel through the twilight sea and arrive at destinations.”'' Maahes then stated, standing up briefly to stretch as he spoke.

“The one I know was in Arthur’s possession. I believe it is safe for now so I have not sought more of it, as I have said my understanding of them is limited. Mirrors are to my mind too dangerous an item to be left to my protection as things stand.” Cirice nods her understanding of Maahes statement of other means. “I have no doubt there are many other forms of travel in the world. Unlike some of my soldales here I limit my expectations however, I have been incredibly lucky in what I have found so far. Perhaps miraculously so. As such I doubt I have much luck left to find such rare regios or other ancient relics. I seek the cauldron and may never find that.”

“A pragmatic approach, and you are correct, you have found a great deal, to temper one's expectations is a difficult matter, but one should always hold faith in destiny, you're never sure what you might find,” Ailuros stated smiling at Cirice.

''“Exactly! My wife is correct, it is the journey which is just as important as the destination. We hold faith in your future capabilities and in return we shall endeavour to locate more of these Temples for you. What do you plan to do next, might I ask?”''

“My destiny was to be cursed, so you’ll have to forgive my lack of faith there. As you say and I have always believed, the journey matters more than the destination so I will continue my search and do what I can to safeguard what I find along the way if possible. Even if I never arrive, I will lay the path for whoever follows.” Cirice smiled as she said that but a thoughtful look crosses her expression as she consided what was next. “I shall travel to the island and see what there is to find, what else is there to do? I also plan to find and access a trod to reach my homeland easier, so that I may check Gwaelod. If the Ascians beat me to their goal, my search for the temple may be fruitless and unnecessary.”

The cats share a look and speak briefly in the language Cirice heard when she first entered their lair, this continued for about thirty seconds before they looked back at Cirice. Once again it was Maahes who spoke first, while looking the mage up and down. ''“What do you mean cursed? We were under the impression that the magi of your ‘Covenant’ were naturally young looking or blessed by the realms? We knew you were older than you looked, but we didn't know you were cursed?”''

“Indeed, may we ask how this came about?” Ailuros then said, also examining Cirice like her husband was.

“Many of the others are blessed..” Cirice answers, not even trying to keep the grumble from her voice, “In the prime of their life and likely to remain so. I however, am as I am. Never to reach physical adulthood… A clear curse, especially when you consider other things beyond me because of it. I cannot answer specifics, it isn’t entirely known even to me or my Mater. 'No true ‘Child of Ceridwen' can grow to continue the legacy’ is what was said, though the meaning is beyond me. Perhaps there is some destiny but to me, it just is what it is.”

Both cats remained silent as Cirice provided her explanation, before once again speaking in their language. This time however the conversation lasted longer before they turned back to Cirice with questions, Ailuros' looking and sounding concerned. ''“The magic of Curses is old, even those of ancient Rome had power behind them, do you know who uttered those words? Where were they spoken? When they were spoken?”''

''“Indeed, does your mater know the answer to these questions? Or have you attempted to have the curse examined?”'' Maahes continued his face mirroring his wifes.

“It was an ancestral occurrence, before our times. It is possible that Morfran will know something but perhaps not. Suffice to say the magi of Cad Gadu were unable to provide answers and even Immanola’s skill with prophesy failed to help.” Cirice forces a smile and gives a small shrug, laughing nervously. “Seeking to cure my curse would have been selfish, so I focus on the Cauldron. Eyes on the future, rather than the past, except for when needing to study the past or ask experts such as you naturally.”

Once again both cats shared a look before nodding in unison. ''“Then we shall study the curse and look to reverse its effects! You are correct, one should always look to the future and study the past. But we also know the pain this can cause. We are old Cirice, and the tradition that made us no longer exists, this means when we eventually falter and all our knowledge will be gone,”'' Maahes started.

''“And do not sell yourself short, you are a true child of Cerdiwen otherwise the curse would not affect you. We shall look to break this curse whilst also searching for the Temples, perhaps your quest for your ancestors' relic will provide us with details to this.”''

“This We Swear Upon The Styx!” Both cats then announced, their gemstone eyes glowing brightly, confidence radiating off them like steam.

Feeling somewhat uncomfortable it takes Cirice a few moments to manage a response, her voice both moved and uncertain as she speaks. “You honour me.. I fear it is too late for such change but if you are so determined and interested in researching such I would be thankful for what you discover. It would mean postponing any magical efforts to extend my life but that is a fair price.” She bows her head in thanks, smiling at them both as she straightens. “I hope Morfran sees me as such when I meet him. At least he is bound to understand the burden of a physical curse.”

''“We are. For now, continue your search as you mentioned. We shall in the meantime locate tomes and knowledge on curses; specifically blood curses. Also why would your traditions' attempts to extend their life cause problems with our research in this matter?”'' Ailuros stated speaking for both cats

“It wouldn’t affect your research but our ways slow aging, so if my curse is removed and I am able to grow once more I would not want my own magic slowing that.” Cirice laughs softly but sombers quickly, almost looking pained as she adds. “It also prevents childbirth and I honestly don’t know how I feel on that given it has never even been a possibility for me.. So ruling that out may be something I would regret if the possibility arises in the future. As I said.. I have generally accepted my lot.”

''“Then we shall begin work immediately. I understand your hesitancy, but as an intelligent being who wishes to have children of my own, but is unable too due to our nature, I shall not have you feel this pain of being unable to change,” Maahes began his tone sombre, before he rose his head up and stared into Cirice’s eyes, “And don't give up, always fight against destiny! Man’s indomitable spirit inspired us, so always fight for the life you want to live; hear, think and feel everything you can, even suffering can be a lesson to learn from.”''

''“Exactly, and if you are concerned about your traditions longevity upon fertility, why not speak with your bird-brained solades, they specialise in fertility magics do they not? There might be a counter to it.”'' Ailuros added, standing to stretch as she walked around slightly before sitting down again in a more comfortable position. She looked back with her cat-like grin. “We shall make sure that we have information for you upon your return from Temple on Ouiktis, either in regards to the Curse, or where our investigation into the location of the other Temples or the Temple of Light itself.”

“Wonderful as that is, the Cauldron and Ascians are a true priority.. If there is any way I can help you with your difficulty, please let me know. I am as interested as you in helping my friends overcome unfortunate situations brought on by who they are.” Cirice smiles warmly. “I shall try to keep destiny in mind and will always make the best of what comes my way, every experience is a chance to grow after all,” she laughs, “I have always preferred experience to research for that very reason.”

She ponders for a moment before answering about Arianwen. “I have heard she has interest in that regard but nothing as to her ability.. There was talk of her recovering some artifact but I am unsure if she has even finished studying it as yet, so that is a conversation that will have to wait. Thank you again. You are as ever, a great help and wonderful conversation.”

"You are most welcome, I’m glad that you were able to keep our wisdom in mind, but you are correct, we must prevent the Ascians from getting hold of artefacts from the ancient world, they do not seem to be a group with man's best interest at heart. As for you helping us, unless you are able to find a practitioner of Heron's magic, I'm afraid not. The blond child you work with might have some of the skills and heart, but does not possess the knowledge of our creation to help us, but as said, destiny is a tricky thing, so who knows,” Maahes stated with a smile.

''“Indeed, it was lovely to speak with you once again Cirice, you are always welcome to join us for tales, stories and histories. We will keep you up to date on anything information we discover on the subjects discussed today. And we wish you luck with your search at Ouiktis, We would also be very interested in what you locate there, knowledge of the Sea Peoples is rare at the best of times,”'' Ailuros said smiling as both cats jumped down from the chair arms, and jumped back onto the table containing the books and tomes they were researching before.

“Oh and when you happen to see Silk, please inform him we expect the silver by next month,” Ailuros then said with a grin as Maahes groaned.

“I shall keep my eyes and ears open in case I come across one. I quite understand how impressive each of you are after all,” Cirice bows her head in a nod, “Stories will always interest me so you know I shall visit again when I am able. You are some of the few here I can relax so much with after all and I always learn much. I’ll be sure to let you know what I find on my return, with luck it will be an exciting tale.”

She is on her feet and heading towards the entrance when she hears the last comment which causes her to laugh. “I’ll be sure to talk to him about it, hehe.”

“Good Luck!” Both cats called as Cirice left the room.