Date: January 3, 2000 (Aether: October 25, 3905)
Place: Temple - Korallion - Haven
Cast: Naiadre, Niamh, Okalani
Scene: The Priestess of Pasiphae and one of her acolytes question a Varati about his faith, and the teacher uses the incident as a lesson to her student.

Temple - Korallion - Haven:
      Darkness, that and the sense of it being unusual chilly in this coral building is the first impression after stepping inside Pasiphae's Home away from Home. As one's eyes adjust to the dimmed light this impression makes way for something completely different though. The lack of total illumination which blinds the outer world allows the eyes and other senses to pick up the beauty the gentle light of the Moon brings to all. In the middle an open space remains, no benches but cushions can be found on the cold rocky floor for those willing to rest and pray in joined silence. Above the open ceiling is covered by a blanket of seaweed through which' small openings the light sips in and provides an easy sea-green atmosphere. The temple's crescent outer form is copied inside by a rocky formation around this open space so the impression of an underwater cave is given.
      This strange inner structure does more than give the impression of the four states of the Moon, it provides alcoves in all it's walls and a maze-like appearance. In these statues of Pasiphae, symbols of this Mistress of Beasts, the water and other artwork can be admired. All illuminated by small burning globes. Except for the eastern wall, there an emptiness resembling Her Absence is filled with the holy altar from which ceremonies are led. There, only the darkness of the night remains.

It's morning, and the High Priestess can be found in the temple. That's right, in the temple, not in Delphi which is where she's supposed to be at this time. Perhaps something is wrong, something which seems likely since she's summoned the First Acolyte. Due to the fog outside, there is hardly any contrast with the mysterious darkness inside and the day outside, which is yet another strange feeling for those who step on the temple's dais. Things for the priesthood seem to be quite normal however, the walls and floors are cleaned and those seeking advice are guided away to the hidden alcoves.

Lying in the praying center is Okalani, resting upon the pillows scattered there and her eyes study the ceiling above, which (since there is no moonlight) is closed.

Naiadre enters the temple, stepping off the dais silently as her jade eyes scan the temple curiously. Everything seems in order, but that does not seem to put her mind at ease, for she wrings her hands in a discreet motion as she continues forward. Nearing the center of the temple, she gazes down at Okalani, touching the priestess' mind with a gentle greeting even as a smile finds its way to her face. *Pasiphae's Blessings, Mother.*

*Blessings of Pasiphae, Naiadre.* If there has been any doubt that Okalani believes something is wrong, the joy sent through the mental link proves otherwise; the high priestess is glad to see her assistant and student. She actually moves herself so that she can sit slightly upright, leaning mostly on her elbows now so she can look Naiadre in the face. *You are ready?* This is one question which is serious, as are its consequences. Is this acolyte ready to face the difficulties to share with the turmoiled minds of the landdwellers?

Naiadre swallows hard, widening the link between her and Okalani, revealing her misgivings, which are minimal, but present. Upon she strands of kelp and coral that are her signature colors, she replies, *I am ready, Okalani. But I am nervous, of course. I worry that something will go wrong, that I will hurt the landdweller...*

Okalani's mind emits understanding, and approval... it is important to worry about such things, as it will make one careful when establishing a link, not forcing it, something which hurts the mind of every one, landdweller or not. *You must adapt your mind to that of the landdweller.. their uncontrolled minds are unable to do so without guidance, however. So... try to find a common ground.* There is a pause in which the priestess attempts to explain what exactly she means. Like speaking of 'home,' which will bring usually the same sort of nostalgic, fond emotions inside a person, even if the memories themselves will be vastly different. *Sylvans of the forest view the trees as home, we view the cold depths of the ocean as such... but we feel at ease there.*

Perhaps it is nothing, or perhaps Naiadre's powers are indeed growing, for as Okalani speaks about the Sylvan race, she cannot help but think in the undercurrents of her brain about the Varati and Empyreans, races which she believes to be further from the Atlanteans than the forest dwellers.

Naiadre cants her head, kneeling down beside the priestess. Her brow puckers faintly in thought. *The races can be very different, no? Our minds must also be... when two such minds are so different, a linking must be difficult... we must both attempt to think in common concepts and find common ground, yes?*

There is agreement within Okalani, agreement which is also physically expressed as she nods. *True... those of the land speak more in phrased thoughts than we do.* A moment of silence passes, in which she pauses to contemplate just how Eithne and Loire will have to learn such things. *This is why I asked one the Varati priests to come here and speak with you... his devotion towards Khalid Atar may bring common ground between you and him.* And, of course, it will allow Okalani to see how much at ease he is with this use of magic. There is a momentarily cloudiness as she hides just whether she views Khalid Atar as a God or not.

Niamh steps through the illuminated opening into the darkened temple.

Though there is scarcely any light on the Korallion's courtyard due to the fog, there is still a minor disturbance with the illuminated opening and the darkness inside. This is of no problem for the Pasiphaean priest, however, whose eyes have already been adjusted to the interior's dim light. At the sight of a newcomer, he approaches and, seeing this one is obviously not Atlantean, he speaks with his tongue, if in a rather hushed tone. "May Pasiphae guide you..." a quick check, Varati indeed, "imphadi. May I know what brings you to Her home away from Home?"

Telepathically to Okalani, Naiadre thinks, *You mean they also think in the words that they speak?* Momentary dismay. *Will they not understand my images, then?*

The Imphadi does not look particularly pleased at being at this particular place at this particular time. With a soft grunt, he grumbles, "Good day..." to the Pasiphaean priest, looking him over quickly. Huh. He then holds out a letter for the priest to take if he chooses. "My appearance has been requested here by Estrel Okalani..." He knows she is also the High Priestess, and it seems he planned that particular phrase very carefully.

The temple is quiet and dark, the portal above being closed and allowing no moonlight in. A few priests move about the temple, and a few worshippers as well. Within the center are two figures, one half-lying upon some pillows, another kneeling beside her. Their faces are intent, but they speak no words... Then again, they are Atlantean, and the conversation is probably all telepathy-borne.

Telepathically, Okalani thinks, *Oh they will, Naiadre... if given to them in a way they can understand. But do you know how difficult it is to use images in the Lirite way?* The priestess herself surely does -- she's been practicing to do a lot lately. *With landdwellers it is too... difficult -- they do not have the same views and experiences as we do. But there is another reason... if they send images, it is like a waterfall... your mind cannot understand just what they are thinking. Therefore, you must encourage them to 'think in words,' and send those only after they have finished. More will flood with it, but it is best for both.* She startles as she is alerted by the priest of the newcomer, *There is Niamh, the priest I asked for.*

If the priest knows that Niamh speaks about the High Priestess while knowing her religious title, neither his tone nor expression show this. Instead, he nods and gestures to the wide open center and the two figures. "She and the First Acolyte are in the praying center, imphadi." He then inclines his head and turns to a worshipper, a small girl with coral-red hair. He isn't rude, he just believes that Niamh is quite capable of walking to the Estrel by himself.

Okalani herself turns her head now, straightening a bit from her very relaxed position on the floor, and her aquamarine eyes literally glow as she sees the Fire Elementalist. An arm is gracefully lifted and she beckons him to come nearer, very relaxed but as he comes nearer he may see her smile to be quite welcoming.

Telepathically to Okalani, Naiadre returns a general feeling of assent, colored by yellow sparks. *I will do my best, Mother.*

Niamh is more suspicious of all this than anything. Forgive the pun, but he is very much a 'fish out of water' in this place. At least it's not underwater... he definitely would have refused the request if it had been. Upon seeing the oddly glowing eyes and the smile, he ventures closer, shaking his head slightly at the rather lax attitudes. Nothing at all like the Atarvani. But he does approach the two in the 'praying circle' and gives a slight bow, no doubt in deference to her rank in Delphi. "Estrel, you requested my presence...here." He looks around again, his dark eyes taking in the unfamiliar surroundings.

Naiadre turns her elegant profile to regard Niamh, jade eyes darkened in the dim light. She smiles a greeting, but waits for Okalani to speak first.

As if Okalani would be foolish enough to invite a landdweller underwater, that would have resulted in that one's death and she likes Niamh too much to actually hurt him... not that she's allowed to do such a thing anyway. As he nears, the high priestess actually rises and inclines her head, showing respect for his rank among the Varati priesthood, as well as one who has graduated at Delphi. "Pasiphae's Blessings, Niamh. Yes, I was wondering whether you would mind helping me and my assistant here." She gestures towards Naiadre before adding with a mischievous smile, "And to see whether you would actually come here. I am glad you did."

Niamh's lips thin slightly, but he replies with his own brand of rather dry humor, "The challenge is met then, Estrel." He turns to nod to Naiadre, acknowledging her. He glances back to Okalani, "What is it you wish me to do?" And why couldn't this have been done at Delphi?

Since he doesn't speak that latest question and Okalani still isn't capable of reading one's mind without establishing a mental link, this question remains unanswered, and she simply pats a pillow nearby. "Please sit and relax, Niamh." She tilts her head and shakes her head, sadness within her voice, "You seem to have hardened inside." Blue eyes flicker from and to Naiadre, but nothing is vocally exchanged between teacher and student, and instead she continues, "I wondered whether you could speak about your religion." Here? In a temple of a foreign deity? The water must have sipping through Okalani's mind in her brains.

Telepathically to Naiadre: Okalani's thoughts stream in, lacquered with worry at the odd way her 'contact with the Atarvani' speaks. *How does he feel to you?*

Naiadre kneels once more, her eyes steady upon Niamh, although she still speaks not a word. Her mind is not idle, however. Anyone who was sensitive to it could sense the gathering and strengthening of her magic, spiraling out to try and sense something about the Varati.

Niamh sits slowly and carefully, still a little suspicious at the whole thing. He has become harder inside? If she went through what he did in the past month, she would have also! He glances to Naiadre as well before his attention is brought back to Okalani. "About my religion... here, in your temple." It is not really a question, but it is not quite a statement. But then he seems to relax slightly. "If you wish."

A radiant smile is his reward as Okalani feels how he does indeed relax, if only a little. She is obviously still concerned about him, but manages to repress this emotion from her voice. "Well... why not? Do you know of any better place to discuss religion than in a temple?" Sparkles appear in those glowing blue eyes, and she slowly begins to lower herself into the pillows, till her elbows only hold her up to show she does have interest in him... and in watching the aether twist as Naiadre's magic reaches out to him.

Naiadre seems to listen with something above normal intensity, although her eyes are unfocused. Rather... disconcerting, actually.

Niamh arches a dark eyebrow, "But it is your temple, Estrel. I do not think the Amir-al would welcome such a discussion in his temples." Well, he might not mind, but the other Atarvani would throw a fit. He glances now and then at Naiadre, but figures this is part of what he is here to help with so it is best to leave it alone for now.

Telepathically to Okalani: Naiadre takes a moment to strengthen the link between herself and her teacher while continuing to search the area about Niamh carefully. She spins out a thread of thought then. *I sense conflicting emotions... he is uneasy... suspicious. Perhaps because he must speak of his religion in the temple of another religion. But there is also curiosity and... superiority?* <Confusion>.

"This isn't my temple, Niamh, it's Pasiphae's," Okalani corrects him with a soft voice and her gaze automatically wanders away from the two youngsters to the ceiling above them, a ceiling made out of layers which can be removed to let the moonlight in but right now depicts the moon goddess in all her forms -- in symbols, of course. "And I do doubt She would bring us misfortune because we speak about the beliefs which rest in the minds of others. Perhaps, here, She can listen better to your opinions?" Merely a suggestion of course. Now she looks at Naiadre and one eyebrow is lifted up in mild surprise which soon is filled with dry amusement as she glances at Niamh. "Some of the Servants might not like this idea however... And you? Would you personally not like it if we spoke about Pasiphae in a temple of your deity?"

Telepathically to Naiadre: Okalani seems slightly amused as both youngsters are confused, but the idea of Niamh's superiority is something which draws her attention most, *He is one of the Varati... they believe themselves to be above all others.* Not that Okalani doesn't believe the Atlanteans are more educated and advanced than the other races, but she does believe all people are equal. Then another thought strikes her, *Perhaps he feels himself above those who serve a deity who is not Khalid Atar?* Again, she does her best to hide her own opinion of the Varati God-King.

Telepathically to Okalani: Naiadre returns once more a feeling of assent and maintains a light hold on the link.

Naiadre clears her throat quietly, and straightens. Fixing a bright smile on Niamh, she cants her head at him. "I am curious... I once heard a theory from someone that there was only one god, and all of the other gods were only facets of that one -- Pasiphae and Khalid included. I would be interested to hear your thoughts."

Niamh looks from teacher to student and back again. Which question should he answer first? "If I were still Atarvani and this were being discussed in my temple, I might not like it." One down. To Naiadre, "I find that rather impossible, as there is visual, tangible, crystal-clear proof of the existence of my God-King." And the others? Well, they seem a little less credible.

Telepathically to Naiadre: Okalani's attention, and suspicion, rise. *Do you sense some... disturbance in his emotions when claiming,* yes, Okalani does doubt he truly is no longer an Atarvani, for she has known him for a long time and he truly is devoted to Khalid, *he is no longer one of Khalid Atar's servants?*

Okalani arches a brow at Niamh but doesn't comment yet, though again she exchanges glances with the student but nothing can be seen upon her expression... in fact, she actually laughs at his answer to Niamh. She shakes her head, causing the silver bells in her long black hair to add a clinging sound of joy alongside her amusement. "You sound like imphada Maat, now." More solemnly, "But I do wonder," she returns to her previous conversation topic while allowing Naiadre to continue that of herself... poor Niamh, having to talk about two different things at a time, "why you would not like such a thing?" She tilts her head, blue eyes glowing with genuine interest.

Telepathically to Okalani: Naiadre sends a mental image of a nod to her teacher. *Indeed I do. He is hiding something there. Almost as if his words do not match what he really feels... is this how a lie feels, Teacher? Either he is still Atarvani, or discussing such a thing would not bother him that much. The former feels more likely.*

Telepathically to Naiadre: Okalani feels extremely pleased with herself, the answer the priest must give to her last question will most certainly clear this subject between the two of them. Yet she remains quite solemn as she nods towards Naiadre. *Yes.. that-what- should-be-said-in-reverse,* Okalani definitely grew up not knowing the meaning of a 'lie,' *feels like this. And would your mind actually have been linked with it, this feeling would have been even stronger, strong enough to prove.* There is a pause. *Can you think of why it is impossible to share that what is not true?*

Telepathically to Okalani: Naiadre considers, continuing to scan for more emotions. *It is not possible because he who would lie would be betrayed by his feelings and his knowledge of the truth, would he not? But what if it was a lie that person had come to believe in firmly over time? Would it still be apparent?*

Naiadre's brow furrows momentarily, showing the depth of her concentration, but her eyes remain steady upon Niamh, awaiting his answer.

Telepathically to Naiadre: Okalani urges you to also continue your discussion since that will make the man's mind more easily confused as he speaks, give his emotions free reign... and show them the strength of will one who is known to have been a priest has.

Niamh seems a bit less amused at the way the conversation is going. "I do not wish to be rude, Estrel..." He stalls, not wanting to say anything that the High Priestess will not exactly like. After all, he is in her home... and he will do the honorable thing... unless, of course, she urges him to continue.

Telepathically to Naiadre: Okalani is proud as Naiadre comes up with this explanation, showing she is correct even if she does not 'phrase' these thoughts. Instead, she answers the question, *No, it wouldn't. Deep down it might be known to him, but he himself is not aware of this... but if he believes it, we cannot feel such, no matter how deep adepthood goes. It would be like a lie told by someone else but he does not know it is a lie.*

Naiadre cants her head, curious. "You don't need to worry; she did ask you, after all. I would also like to know. I am also curious if you feel Khalid is superior to the other gods because he is tangible." Two lines of questioning at once, oy vey.

Telepathically to Okalani: Naiadre returns a sparkle of silver joined with an image of dancing dolphins, showing her delight at her understanding.

A nod is given to second Naiadre's words, "If there is anything rude it is from the questioner to act offended towards the answerer just because the answer is not favorable," Okalani calmly answers, lips turning into a sly smile as she watches the young man and her expression becomes almost... challenging, wondering just how far this man who claims to no longer be a priest can go. "You know..." she muses, thinking of yet another line of questioning, "I do wonder how you view other Gods? In Pasiphae, there are few who agree with one another about the subject." A grin plays around her lips, "If you ever wish to know what confusion is, ask all Pasiphaeans to give their opinion... and let them share your mind with them." Is nothing sacred in this order?

It seems not. And so Niamh prepares to answer as best he can. First, to Naiadre, "My belief in the Amir-al stems from more than the simple fact that I can see him and hear him and touch him." Of course, Niamh never has. "As far as other gods... I do not view them as such. There is only one, and that is Khalid Atar." As simple as that.

Naiadre blinks twice, thrice, casting a lingering glance at Okalani.

Telepathically to Okalani: Naiadre thinks, *I do not know if he is a priest still or not, but he believes in his god. Very very strongly.*

"Like Maat," Okalani murmurs again, yet she is more solemn as she nods towards Niamh, refraining from stating her own beliefs about other deities. She really doesn't wish to share her opinion about it... and start a war of some sort right in the priestly caste. A frown does mar her features, "But isn't Khalid Atar said to be the son of two of your older gods?"

Niamh nods, somewhat surprised at Okalani's knowledge of his own religion. "He is the most powerful of them. Ushas, his mother, is sometimes worshipped by the women..." But it's not the same as belonging to Khalid Atar.

Telepathically to Naiadre: Okalani seems to agree with this and almost cringes... while she holds Pasiphae as the center of her life, there is something within Niamh which makes her seem afraid... for the poor guy, not of him. *Perhaps ask him why he left the priesthood if he feels like this for Khalid Atar?* And yet another cloud, Okalani's own strong telepathy may allow some deeper insight in the state of her mind but her will is strong, and she does let Naiadre maintain this link for most of it.

Naiadre blinks, a doll coming alive once more. "May I ask why you left the priesthood then, if you feel so strongly about the Khalid?" Her voice is soft, inquisitive.

That surprise is surely felt but the high priestess and Okalani arches a brow as she comments lightly, "When meeting you I expressed interest in your religion and order, Niamh. Do you really think I would not look up the stories about Khalid Atar and your older gods?" At the rest she nods in thought, placing a finger against her lips as she leans further backwards, almost completely lying on her back right now... though at a second thought, she rolls on her side so she may face the elementalist. "Why do women need a separate goddess?"

Niamh answers one question at a time, "They do not need, they choose to worship Ushas in addition to her son." To Naiadre now, "It was not my choice." The simpler one keeps the lie, the easier it is to be believed.

The easier it is to be believed? With two advanced telepaths around? Sure, their minds are not linked with his but... The young priestess nods however, though she still wonders, "Why do they choose to do such a thing?"

Niamh is silent a moment, looking between the two Atlanteans. "I do find it odd that you bring me to your Temple in order to discuss my own religion." He stands easily, used to sitting on cushions. "I do not mind continuing this discussion, but I will not do it in any place of worship." To the two he gives a nod. "Good day."

Naiadre sighs as Niamh exits the temple, raising a hand to rub her forehead. She turns pale jade eyes upon Okalani. *Well, how did I do, teacher? Did I pick up all that you did?*

*Yes, you did.* There is a faint impression that Okalani would not have expected otherwise since this is something which even novices could pick up, though she does feel proud about the good conclusions drawn. A passing thought, *Would you mind touching this man's mind though? So... fanatical as he is about Khalid Atar?*

Naiadre considers that a moment, her brow furrowing in thought. *I think... I think I would not mind too much, no more than any other landdweller. Our devotion to our gods would be the common ground we needed, even if they were different gods. His faith cannot shake mine, Mother, be assured.*

There is a brief moment of surprise, Okalani didn't expect Naiadre's faith to be shattered just because she would touch the mind of one who serves another deity. A brief pause before she ventures further, *We will just have to see whether he wishes to do such a thing however. He seemed... not at ease.* Worry is hidden from the acolyte.

Naiadre nods slowly. *I sensed it also. He deceived us, or tried. Perhaps he would have been more at ease outside of the temple next time.* If there is a next time, a thought shared hopefully with Okalani. Naiadre nibbles on her lip, considering something else. *Does telepathy with one who has it not drain you more than it does with an Atlantean who is poorly gifted?*

An immediate *Yes,* proves this to be definitely the case. *Those of the lower <novice> level at least know how to train their thoughts to send without turmoil. Those who do not...* Okalani's no longer sends anything, believing the acolyte to be smart enough to realize that this will be harder. *You have to both uphold the link as you do now and deal with uncontrolled thoughts.* And those weak gifted Atlanteans can at least send a few phrases and words from themselves, and pick up emotions.

Naiadre turns this contemplation over in her mind a few more times, examining it from other angles. *Must we teach the landdwellers how to 'speak' before we can communicate with them?* A red thread of dismay accompanies her normal coral and kelp sendings. Such an undertaking would take much time.

Now that is something over which Okalani muses a bit, *No... not unless we wish to do such a thing like I occasionally do with Delphic students who are willing.* Pondering for a while, Okalani lets images drift by of the lessons she had with Starsong and Nuria and especially the former becoming more and more adept at this language of communication.

Naiadre smiles as the images rise in her mind's eye. *It sounds intriguing. The rest must simply be filtered through. Still, it must take practice.* She rubs her forehead again, between her eyes. *I believe I am growing somewhat weary, Mother. And I still have other duties to attend to today. Could we perhaps adjourn for today?*

*Of course.* With some grace does Okalani rise from the pillows, hands moving to her sarong which she smooths down as her gaze travels through the temple before falling once again upon Naiadre. *You do well, Naiadre* Images of the students inside the temple are included to show she means more than just the magical lessons. *I need to return to Delphi.* She is late as it is, *You look after the temple?*

Naiadre rises lithely, inclining her head to Okalani. *Of course,* she replies, smiling. *Take care. And thank you.*

FIN  

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