Role

Chapter 21

Through Ayik's observations, his gaze passed upon a young lawful
mage named Mulshinay. Though the mage was completely illogical (some would say dumb)
Ayik listened with intent when the mage would speak. Though this was common, as
many prey would give very important hints on themselves through communication, Mulshinay
spoke of something he called the Fount. After hearing about this 'Phaelim's teachings, Ayik
decided to wander about some, looking for him. Unsuccessful in his hunt, he began to concentrate
more at the war at hand. Having recently joined the Village, he had little time to wonder about
this odd magi's habit. Almost by happenstance one day, as Ayik was hunting a mage
up the Khalid river, he found himself in front of a sailor. This sailor, by all means looking
lost, did not seem to be completely 'there' with the world.. as if he had another reason for
planting himself at the headwaters of the river. Upon Ayik's arrival, the sailor examined him
and spoke that Ayik has a kindred mind. Immediately, Ayik was interested. None have ever attempted
to read the Shadowstalker's mind, let alone discern what thoughts come from it. The sailor told
him that he should but speak words, and his problems would be assisted with. Ayik decided it to be
the logical action, as there seemed to be no danger at hand (as well as losing the magi's tracks). Almost
immediately upon speaking the words Ayik's body was transported to an odd spectacle. Only being able
to describe the location as an anomaly. Devoid of colour and interest, this 'void' seemed to be a place
of extreme meditation and thought. Just as Ayik began to discern the surroundings around him, Phaelim
did the same to Ayik. Ayik's gaze rested upon Phaelim. Phaelim arched his eyebrows at Ayik, not truely
showing his intentions or thoughts towards Ayik. The Shadowstalker was immediately impressed with this,
as many years of observing a variety of creatures has assisted Ayik with determining the prey's thoughts
and/or next moves. Ayik could simply not see through Phaelim.

They began to speak, attempting to figure each other out. Phaelim, most likely wondering why this
odd bird happened upon his Fount. Ayik, wondering how a god would represent him so well. It has been
too many years, too many days, since the Shadowstalker could call one Teacher... Not showing this, though,
Ayik replied to Phaelim's questions with observations on the mage he encountered earlier. Through this
ploy, Ayik would attempt to figure if Phaelim would be very close to his followers, or get insulted
(as some gods are known to do) when their followers are mocked or belittled. Phaelim did niether, merely
nodding his head occasionally. The Shadowstalker began to assume that Phaelim knew exactly what he was
attempting to do and surprisingly, began to tell things about himself. This was usually the last weapon
in Ayik's arsenal of communication. Many things find comfort in knowing about who they are speaking to. After
comfort is achieved, everything about the prey follows afterwards. Even after Ayik spoke of his dilemma
involving his emotions, Phaelim merely stated that it was quite an engima but it was truely up to Ayik to
figure it out. Ayik's plans, his constructs and traps involving communication and observation all failed
against this 'Phaelim'. Ayi