h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

*Syian looks as though she desperately wants to speak with Lumien but when she opens her mouth to speak she merely yawns*

*Her eyes shut quickly and she falls into a deep sleep; she is still slightly shaking and looks feverish*

It's all right...

*Lumien gets up, and returns with a cool cloth for Syian's forehead.*

Everything will be all right... *Trying to convince herself as much as the sleeping Syian. She can't put her finger on it, but something... feels different. She keeps getting the feeling that there is someone behind her, but when she turns to look, no one is there.*

*she begins muttering so softly it is barely audible*

It will all be...Lumien protected...father, in death

*she jolts awake*

*Patricia comes running through the door, her face is white with shock*

Your..........the guild...............erm............there are member of the guild here in Oane, maybe you should go to them, they can help you get back to Imardin

*Looks at Patricia, then back at Syian.*

I don't know. Do you think you can travel yet?

*Back to Patricia.* You're welcome to come with us, if you want.

*Still shaken*

No.......no I don't not at the moment.........I..........I'm not trying to make you leave but I thought you would be happier with your friends from the guild, they must be worried

*Looks at Syian briefly.*

Not until she's ready to go. She didn't drag me back to Imardin when I was out cold, and I'll show her the same kindness!

*Lumien's suspicions are aroused.*

You look like you've seen a ghost. *Grins at the accidental witicism.*

*Patricia pulls herself out of it*

erm..........I'm ok I er saw someone who reminded me of someone I once knew that's all

<>

*Cocks her head as if she's listening to something*

I have to leave you for a minute, I will be back

*She runs out of the door*

Lumien, why are you so kind to me?

*a few tears roll along her face, she fiercely tries to blink them all away*

Why not?

*Pulls out a handkerchief and gives it to Syian so she can clean up.*

You're not ready to go yet. We'll stay here for as long as you need.

*Pats her shoulder.*

What happened in there? I mean, you don't have to tell me if you don't want, but I got worried...

*At this, Lumien reflexively looks over her shoulder-at nothing. She turns back and shakes her head.*

I went to visit my father

You did... isn't that the one who re-opens that wound each time you're near him? Why in the name of the ninth-

*Stops herself, and continues more calmly.*

Why did you do that?

*looks at the stump of her arm, it is slightly swollen but not bleeding*

I bound him before he could harm me; he is a slave to my will and the bells - for the time being

*she is silent for a moment remembering the helpless feeling of being bound by the bells...the fire...the laughter....blood*

Something else is bothering you, I can tell.

*She starts chanting a spell that will bring down the swelling.*

Bad memory

*her face seems closed, back to when she didn't trust anyone - even Lumien*

*Finishes the spell.*

That's all right...

Do you feel ready to travel, or do you want to sleep for a little while longer? I'd like to get back to Imardin as soon as we can.

*Smiles at the thought of Wolf.*

Yes....yes, lets leave. I would like to speak with you more privately, if I may

*she quickly write a note for Patricia and leaves it on the dining table with her smallest bell*

*It says "Patricia, I have gone back to the guild. When you need me, ring my bell and I will hear. Syian"*

All right...

*Walks out, heading for the stables.*