Illyria:
Anomen, I am curious. You say you are out to combat evil, but all I have seen you do so far besides minimal help in battle, is worry about whether you will pass your test.
=
Why is becoming a Knight so important to you? Surely you can fight evil just as well outside the Order?

Anomen:
Becoming a Knight of the Order is that which is so important to me, Lady Illyria. I cannot devote my life to the path of righteousness and service of Helm outside it.

Illyria:
Why not, exactly? I have known many who combat evil without the aid of a god.

Anomen:
My devotion to Helm is not for your questioning, girl. I am a servant to the Order. I owe them much of my life's happiness.

Illyria:
Why does Helm demand such slavish obedience? I simply do not understand it. If a god wants obedience, why does he simply enforce his will, or buy a slave?

Anomen:
Faith is not slavery, do not mock me so! We serve the Gods to gain their favour and to better ourselves of our own free will! Who are you, girl, that knows so little of this? Elves have Gods, do they not?

Illyria:
Yes, but most do not demand such... such unquestioning obedience. Free will? Anomen, it doesn't sound to me as though you *have* free will. You do whatever the Order says, never asking why... It is sheer stupidity.

Anomen:
Who are you to challenge my faith in such a way! Who are you to impugn the honour of the Order? I do what is right and strive to follow the righteous path and that is my choice! Now leave me be, loathsome girl!

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Anomen, I am sorry about what I said earlier. I did not mean to be rude, I was just curious.

Anomen:
Nay, my Lady, it is I who should be sorry. Although my harsh words *were* in defence of Helm, it is inexcusable for a knight to talk to a lady like that. I apologise.

Illyria:
Apology accepted, Anomen. Just, please, next time, do not take everything so personally.

Anomen:
I shall strive my best.

---------------------------------------------

(After test; Anomen is a Knight)

Illyria:
Anomen, what exactly drives you forward? I have noticed that recently you have a lot more energy, and some of the spells you have been casting are truly admirable.

Anomen:
I thank you, my lady, but I must confess I am not entirely sure what you mean. My duty as a servant of Helm and of righteousness is no more than it was before I was a true Knight of the Order.

Illyria:
But it is, Anomen. You fight more valiantly, you put more effort into helping everyone... I believe it a change for the better.

Anomen:
Your words are...very kind, Illyria. I strive to be the best that I can be.

Illyria:
Any time, Anomen, anytime.



Illyria:
I think I should sit down... I feel slightly dizzy.

Korgan:
Hah! What's the matter girl? Can't keep up? Shall I run ye a bath and rub yer fancy feet, elf?

Illyria:
Far from it, Korgan, my head just feels strange. And I doubt I am the one in need of a bath, Korgan. You smell worse than the rot of the nine hells.

Korgan:
Hah! I may smell of the earth, but yeh reek of the vile flowers and mamby pamby woodland creatures that yeh protect so diligently

Illyria:
Which is INFINITELY preferable to smelling like a horse. Wash. Soon. Please.

Korgan:
Hah! I thought you female elves would be used to the smell of a stallion, especially when he's been working up a sweat.

Illyria:
Urgh... Stupid dwarf... Can we go now? Please?!

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Korgan, I would greatly appreciate it if you refrained from staring at my breasts. It is starting to become disturbing.

Korgan:
I be not starin' at yer breasts, ye long limbed pansy, I be starin' at yer necklace! It looks to be worth a pretty penny, an' I have half a mind ta relieve yer pretty neck of it! Or I could just lop yer head off with me axe, either way.

Illyria:
If I wanted to take my amulet off, dwarf, I doubt I would be giving it to you.

Korgan:
Och, perhaps not. But, besides- it be in a mildly interestin' place to keep me eyes on!

Illyria:
You said you weren't staring at my breasts, you ugly dwarven lump!

Korgan:
Har har, no one ever said a dwarf couldnae lie!

Illyria:
ARGH!

---------------------------------------------

(Condition: after gaining transformation ability)

Korgan:
Ye are so lucky lass! With an inflated face and so many eyes sticking from it, ye can watch yer rear as well as yer front. I have to admit, tis a great advantage in battle.

Illyria:
Thankyou, I think. It does have its downsides, Korgan, as much as it may be an asset in battle. The strange union I have with L'Sirr is peculiar, and not entirely natural.
=
Fighting is more than simply killing the enemy, as well. Courage, prowess, and skill are the true values of battle.

Korgan:
And I shall keep ye true to yer words. If I ever see ye flee in battle, mind me throwing axe, the *pop* and *ye* deflating into a muddy beholder puddle.

Illyria:
I rather doubt that.. I can move remarkably fast in my other form when I want to, but I shall keep my eyes out for 'rogue' axes coming from your general direction. If an axe hits me, Korgan, I think retribution would be swift, regardless of the thrower.

Korgan:
Do as ye wish, *eyeball*. I think me arms would tire before I could chop all those wobbly lumps swelling on yer head.

Illyria:
I think your short stature would indeed detract from your ability to reach my eyes, Korgan.. And I agree - you WOULD tire rather quickly!

Korgan:
Well, ye don't seem to have any eyes in yerarse, do ye? Tis’ the first spot, ye'd better check forme axe though!

Illyria:
I see.



Jaheira:
I have noticed that whenever I come near to you you move away and busy yourself with some mundane task, Illyria. You are avoiding me. Why?

Illyria:
Because you frighten me, to be entirely candid. When we come near, I feel your gaze upon me, analyzing my every move as though to find out whether I will destroy the balance or not.

Jaheira:
Ah, I see. I suppose I watch you to discern whether you will be an asset or a bane to this party. So far you have proved to be an asset, but I sense something amiss with you which concerns me.

Illyria:
I know. It is just that your gaze is slightly unnerving - it feels as though you are constantly judging me.

Jaheira:
You have nothing to fear from me, Illyria, I am simply concerned with the well-being of the group.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Jaheira, I am deeply sorry abou-

Jaheira:
Do not even say it, Illyria! I am sick to the bone of people apologising for what was an unavoidable occurance.

Illyria:
How can you say that, Jaheira? I was simply trying to be polite.

Jaheira:
Leave me be, Illyria. I do not want your sympathy.

Illyria:
Look, I was just... I suppose we will talk later, then.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Jaheira, I am... sorry for avoiding you. I did not mean to be rude.

Jaheira:
I feel I must apologise as well, Illyria. My reaction to your condolences was uncalled for, and not the way I would usually react. Since Khalid's death, it seems I have been unnecesarily wary. I studied you closely for a time, vainly seeking a weakness which I could exploit to discover what secret you withheld from us.

Jaheira:
But I see now that it was unnecessary. You have proven yourself to be an aid, rather than a hindrance, and I see my suspicion was relatively unfounded.

Illyria:
I hope you understand my reasons for witholding L'Sirr. I myself was wary, uncertain as to how we would be recieved.

Jaheira:
So you decided to 'play it safe', as Khalid might have said. I see you had your reasons, Illyria, and I would hope you understand mine.

Illyria:
I am glad we have come to an understanding, Jaheira... it comforts me to know I am not the only one struggling.



Jan:
...and THEN there was the time my Great Uncle Bunion was chasing a Ankheg through the Corymirian Forest. Now the funny thing about Great Uncle Bunion is that his feet...

Illyria:
Jan, please! Must you continually interrupt normal conversation to throw in one of your countless family stories? Could you *please* just tell me why you have such an obsession with turnips, without getting sidetracked?

Jan:
Well if you'd let me finish you'd find out! "Patience is a virtue", my Aunt Great Equaliser used to say. Though that didn't work too well for her in the end. Died waiting for her crops to grow.... She didn't seem to realise that you needed to plant the seeds first...

Illyria:
I see... and what has this to do with why you love turnips so, Jan? You are, perhaps unconsciously, proving my point.

Jan:
Well, yes, but... it all has to do with my first illusion. It was quite fantastic, I might add, a small wyvern... destroyed the garden, as well as Aunt Martha's pot plants...

Illyria:
I did not think illusions had form, though?

Jan:
I, uh, of course they don't, but it was... the illusion...

Illyria:
This is getting us nowhere... Perhaps it would be wise to discontinue this line of conversation, for I see it is upsetting you. Another time, perhaps.

---------------------------------------------

Jan:
You know, Illyria, my Uncle, Uncle Smarmy Jangletoes that is, once dated a Beholder. He made us call her Aunty Bertha. Now, I personally had nothing against Aunty Bertha, but she wasn't a particularly nice Beholder. But Uncle Smarmy was happy and that was all that really mattered, I suppose. The big problem was when they decided to get married, you see there were some problems with wedding guests going missing.

Illyria:
I... see. Not *all* Beholders are bad, you know... in fact-

Jan:
Yes well, so did Aunt Bertha, all those eyes, as I'm sure you know. You know she could spot me stealing turnips from her garden at 100 paces? Amazing.

Illyria:
Really, well, thats quite-

Jan:
Interesting? Yes, I know. Now the most interesting part was her breath. The breath of that woman, and I use that term loosely, could have stripped the shell from an Ankheg, which is exactly what happened during the wedding. Someone had brought an ankheg shell as a wedding present for the happy couple but they had forgotten to remove the Ankheg first. So there we were in in the middle of the ceremony when all of a sudden up pops an Ankheg and devours the priest!

Illyria:
Jan, do you think we could start moving, I can see-

Jan:
Now Aunty Bertha didn't take kindly to the Ankheg ruining her wedding ceremony, Uncle Smarmy had had a lot of trouble finding a priest who would actually marry them. In the end the priest was a druid he had found wandering the forest ranting about mushrooms, spores and cannabilistic gryphons.

Illyria:
Jan, I am having a bit of trouble with a rogue Beholder soul here which is quite intent on throttling you, so would you *please* get on with it before I decide perhaps that course of action is wise?

Jan:
Ah, yes, well my point was that maybe you're related to my Aunt Bertha, and therefore to me. Wouldn't it be amazing if we were indeed related?

Illyria:
(sigh) I am sure L'Sirr would not be related to you, Jan... I think I can hear <CHARNAME> calling...


Illyria:
Nalia, why must you give money to every peasant we pass? We are trying to save it so we can rescue Imoen, and throwing coin away like that is a waste.

Nalia:
20,000 gold is a lot of money, Illyria. Surely <CHARNAME> isn't going to mind if we give up one piece to the needy.

Illyria:
One piece, Nalia? You just gave twenty gold coins to that beggar, not one!

Nalia:
Oh, by the gods, Illyria, how hard is it to get 20 gold? Selling one of those useless gems that we drag around or perhaps a weapon we don't use is an easy way to do it.

Illyria:
I really do not think you fully comprehend what I am saying, Nalia. How is giving a peasant 20 gold going to help him lead a better life?

Nalia:
These people are starving! You're telling me you don't even feel the least bit obligated to help them?

Illyria:
Throwing money at them might feed them for a day or two, but...

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Throwing money at them might feed them for a day or two, but does it really help them in the long run? Would they not become more dependent on the nobility?

Nalia:
You assume that they will be dependent on the nobility for their means of living, but there are good people out there, who will take the money given to them and use it to help earn themselves a better way of living.

Nalia:
Someone has to start it, Illyria.

Illyria:
I suppose, but I do not think that is the best way to do it. If I were in your place, I would build schools, hospitals, places where they can get an education and be cared for.

Nalia:
The simple fact is that you are not a noble, and therefore do not know the hardships peasants suffer. I am in a better position to understand what they need, I think, Illyria.

Illyria:
So as a noble, who has had everything handed to her on a silver platter all her life, you are saying you understand the hardships of living on the streets as the downtrodden peasants?

Nalia:
I... I have been working to better the lives of the peasants all my life! I have done so much for them, given them money and food, and you tell me I don't understand the hardships that are forced upon them?!

Illyria:
Your heart may be in the right place, but I think you need to revise how you are trying to 'fix' the situation. It is not a problem which will simply disappear if you give away money, Nalia.

---------------------------------------------

Nalia:
Illyria, I don't think you quite understand what its *like* to be poor! These people have nothing; they need everything they can get! Why can't you see it?

Illyria:
I do see it, Nalia, but you are approaching the problem from the wrong perspective! Instead of thinking like a kind noble, think as if you *were* poor! What you are doing is morally questionable in my opinion, giving money to them does not improve their lot whatsoever!
=
And who KNOWS what they spend it on!

Nalia:
How... how dare you question my authority on these matters! I have been giving to the poor for my entire life, living with them, helping them, and you come along and say I've been doing it wrong?!
=
I am doing it *right*, Illyria, I am doing it the only way I know how! Do not seek to undermine me for your sadistic amusement; I am not some puppet to be played!

Illyria:
I am not sadistic, I'm simply pointing out that I think you're going about things the wrong way!
=
Just…just snap out of it, Nalia! I am not trying to hurt you!

Nalia:
Get lost, Illyria, I don't want to speak with you anymore. Go!

Illyria:
Fine! If you'd but listen to what the poor are actually saying, you might come to my point of reasoning.


Illyria:
Valygar, what is life like 'on the run'?
=
Wait, I am sorry, that was insensitive of me... What is it like to have to run from the law, to hide yourselves from the authorities, when you know you are innocent?

Valygar:
Hardly innocent, Illyria, though I did the right thing, ridding the world of those foul, corrupt mages.
=
But, to answer your question... it is hard. I've had trouble staying out of sight, and remaining anonymous wherever I've been. I've almost been caught several times due to my lack of guile, and I learned from that that I could not let my guard down for a second.

Illyria:
It must be a lonely life... no wonder you are so unused to people.

Valygar:
(Slight grin) I feel I need to point out that I am still here, Miss Illyria. But, in a sense you are right... let us get going, regardless.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Valygar, I am sincerely sorry about what happened to Lavok, even though he died a good death, seeing his home plane once more. Do you still feel the same animosity towards magic-users that you did before?

Valygar:
Hmm...I'm not sure, seeing how Lavok might have been redeemed if he had not died. Perhaps not all magic-users are as bad as I thought... but some of them are, so I cannot let my guard down that easily, I'm afraid.

Illyria:
Do you feel the same way about divine magic? The two are very different, but at the same time, are rather similar.

Valygar:
Divine magic is different. It's not learned by just anyone from scrolls and tomes, purchased at the general store. Still, there are some religions that use their divine power to kill, conquer and dominate. I feel the same wariness towards them, I believe.
=
(sigh) I'm aware they are naught but tools, Illyria. Powerful tools that give power, and it's my experience that shows power corrupts. I'm not exactly prejudiced...just wary. If you had to slay your parents because their arcane magic drove them to become liches, wouldn't you become more wary?

Illyria:
Is it not the same with all things? Warriors use their strength and weapons to kill, thieves, obviously, use their skills to steal, so why should clerics be any different?

Valygar:
(nods) Fair enough. People can earn my trust, in time...even mages, if that's what you're worried about.

Illyria:
Worried? No... no. Perhaps I shall tell you of it another time. But we have work to do. 




1- Illyria's thoughts on thievery
2- Illyria doesn't regret travelling with <CHARNAME>
3- The friendship between Im and Lyr
4- Imoen does listen - well, after a while, anyway.
5- Talking, and more thanks
6- Illyria's thoughts on being a Bhaalspawn
7- more on their friendship, thanks for being there for me etc

CONDITION: path 1, in a city

Illyria:
Imoen, do you ever get the urge to just... just walk up and take something? Like, for example, that amazing bracelet that fat man over there is wearing.

Imoen:
Sure - I've done it plenty of times before. (giggle) Once, back at Candlekeep, Gorion had an important visitor from Tethyr who was wearing this amazing crystal ring.
=
Of course, I blamed it on <CHARNAME>, since <PRO_HESHE> was looking particularly guilty. I don't think <PRO_HESHE> has ever forgiven me. Really! But I made it up to <PRO_HIMHER> afterward - chocolate is the best peacemaking gift *ever*.

Illyria:
Heh, I can just imagine it. On Evermeet, my older brother used to blame me for all sorts of things... knocking over vases, sweets going missing, mother's money-purse being significantly lighter...
=
These days I wonder where all the fun went. No, really! It seems like one day I was playing in the field with the butterflies, and the next I was here with <CHARNAME>, fighting monsters and being retrospective. And contemplating stealing bracelets.

Imoen:
Heh, I... I know what you mean.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Stop it, Imoen!

Imoen:
Stop what?

Illyria:
THAT! Stop it!

Imoen:
(grins) Stop what, Lyr?

Illyria:
That! Pleeease!

Imoen:
Oh... you mean, this?

Illyria:
Pleease, come on, Im, stop, its just getting annoying now.

Imoen:
Trust *you* to spoil my fun, just when I was starting to enjoy it!

Illyria:
Well, yes. Especially when you're poking me incessently with a stick.

Imoen:
Well... I suppose there *is* that, isn't there?

Illyria:
You're impossible, Im, you really are... Anyway... were you not just doing that to <CHARNAME> earlier?

Imoen:
Of course not! Like I'd use the same prank twice in a row. Jeesh.

Illyria:
What about that time <CHARNAME> told me about, when you emptied the bucket of flour over <PRO_HIMHER>, Im? <PRO_HESHE> said you did that at *least* 4 times.

Imoen:
Yeah, but didn't do it four times *in a row*! I don't want <CHARNAME> to become alert enough to stop me!

Illyria:
(Laughing) Oh Im, I am not quite sure what I would do without you.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Imoen!

Imoen:
Whaat?

Illyria:
Do not even *think* about it!

Imoen:
Think about what, Lyr? (grin)

Illyria:
You know EXACTLY what I mean, Imoen. Don't.

Imoen:
Aww... trust you to spoil my fun, Lyr.

Illyria:
Well... you were about to pour itching powder down my back.

Imoen:
Well... there was that, wasn't there.

Illyria:
You are impossible, Im, you really are...

Imoen:
Anyway... I'll get you next time!

---------------------------------------------

Imoen:
Do you regret deciding to come with <CHARNAME>, Illyria?

Illyria:
Not at all, Imoen. I love it...

Imoen:
I'm glad you did decide to come with us... I still can't believe you thought that the itching powder was some kind of disease, it was hilarious! I've never seen anyone looking so panicked. It was one of the first times I've laughed that hard since...him...

Illyria:
I-I'm sorry Im, I-

Imoen:
It's okay... I've just been trying to forget about it, you know? Anyway, answer my question!

Illyria:
Well, no, I have never regretted deciding to travel with <CHARNAME>. If I had not have joined <PRO_HIMHER>, I would not have met you and so many others, who have helped shaped my life. Thank you for spicing my life up, Imoen. I do not know where I would be without you.

Imoen:
Aww, thats alright - you've given me some of the best laughs I've had in years. By the way... here's that bracelet you were lusting after a while back. You can keep it.

Illyria:
How- but you- you didn't even go over there! How did you do that?!

Imoen:
Ah, magic. And magicians never give away their secrets! (she winks)

Illyria:
Hehe... thanks Immy. (she gets a new item in her inventory - 'Imoen's Gift')

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Imoen, you know... I am here if you need to talk. I- I can see you need to. I mean, having your soul ripped from your body... and finding out... I envy your strength.

Imoen:
Thanks, I... I suppose. It's been hard, with Irenicus, and then Bodhi... I really appreciate the offer, Illyria.

Illyria:
It is *quite* fine, Im. When I first found out about L'Sirr, I desperately needed someone to talk to.

Illyria:
I found that someone in <CHARNAME>. I... I hope I can help you like <PRO_HESHE> helped me.

Imoen:
Heh... <CHARNAME> always was good to talk to. Illyria, I'm glad you're here. Thankyou.

Illyria:
As I said before, it is fine. I am glad you're here too, you know, Im.

Imoen:
I know.


---------------------------------------------

Imoen:
Lyr, you... you said I could talk to you, right?

Illyria:
Of course you can, Im... is something up?

Imoen:
The sky, of course, dummy... and that bird. But... thats not what I wanted to ask you about, Lyr.
=
Am I... do I seem okay? I... I feel wrong, inside, and it, it hurts! My dreams are.. my dreams are haunted, no longer dreams, but nightmares... Everything seems darker than before.
=
I'm not... I'm not bad, or, wrong, or... or hateful... A-am I?

Illyria:
Imoen... you're beautiful. There is *nothing* wrong with you, nothing! You're smart, and- and funny, and everything I wish *I* was. You're Imoen, the woman who suffered so much at the hands of an evil mage but made it out alive and happy, against all the odds! How can you say that you are wrong, or bad, or *hateful*?
=
I both love you, Im, and nothing is going to change that, even if you are a Bhaalspawn, and an evil vampiress has your soul... it will be okay. It will. I promise.
=
Illyria: We will get your soul back, Im, if its the last thing we do...
=
(She envelops Imoen into a hug, and the younger woman cries softly into Illyria's shoulder.)

---------------------------------------------

Imoen:
Thankyou, Lyr... for everything. It means a lot...

Illyria:
Thank*you*, Im. You helped me, in more ways than I think you know.

Imoen:
Sounds like we're even, then! (grins)

Illyria:
Now... how about we go dump <CHARNAME> into a river somewhere?

Imoen:
Sounds like a plan... heh, us and our diabolical schemes to ruin <CHARNAME>'s hair...

Illyria:
Well, what else would we do? Fight dragons?

Imoen:
Uhm, Lyr, you HAVE fought dragons, so that comment has no bearing on our situation, you know.

Illyria:
(splutters) Well... thats entirely... thats entirely beside the point!

Illyria:
Anyway... yes, dunking <CHARNAME> in the river... (maniacal grin)

Imoen:
So, we'll need a piece of string, and a gold coin...


1- So... Boo is intelligent, right?
2- Illyria is wierded out by Boo
3- Fate, and whether it controls our lives; Illyria is surprised by Minsc's intelligence-- behind that supposed stupidness is a man who percieves the world in strange and incredible ways
4- Dynaheir, and Minsc's relationship with her
5- Rasheman, and how Minsc misses it


1(NG)- Violent thoughts
2(NG)- More on Evermeet
1(LG)- Minsc's view on law
1(TN)- Boo feels that Illyria is missing something
1(NE)- Minsc and Boo don't like what Lyr has become.

Illyria:
Minsc, is Boo truly... well, intelligent? All I have seen him do so far is crawl around in your backpack, eating cheese and the occasional cracker. I find it hard to believe that he could really be like us.

Minsc:
Ah, Boo is a very clever little hamster. He tells Minsc where to go, what to do, and how to do it - without Boo, Minsc would be nothing, and would be unable to kick the foul butts of evil!
=
But Boo is not like you or I, Illyria. Boo does not think like us... Boo's thought goes far beyond, and around, and above us. Even Minsc does not sometimes understand his thoughts, and Minsc is Boo's closest companion!

Illyria:
You speak as though Boo is a real person... but, to me, he is just a hamster.
=
Sometimes I wish I had someone who I could ask for advice like that - I used to have Mother, and then Oralle to talk to, but now all I have is my journal... and its not like it responds.

Minsc:
Boo says that little Illyria can talk to Minsc if she needs to, for Minsc is good at helping people!

Illyria:
Heh, thank you for the offer, Minsc... but, in retrospect, <CHARNAME> might be a better person to talk to.

Minsc:
Boo and Minsc think it is good Illyria and <CHARNAME> get along as well, as Illyria and Minsc do. Boo says that diss-ent is not good for main-tain-ing good rel-ay-shons between people. I am lost in his words, but Boo is very wise.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Minsc, do you treat all livings things the way you treat Boo?

Minsc:
Of course! Unless they deserve a good buttkicking, in which Boo and Minsc get down to chowing on the meaty marrow of evil!

Illyria:
Hehe, I see. So Boo doesn't get jealous, then?

Minsc:
Boo would never do such a thing. Minsc and Boo will be together until the end, and even beyond!

Illyria:
All living things must die sometime, Minsc... even Boo.

Minsc:
Ah, but Boo is no normal hamster, Illyria-- Boo is a Miniature Giant Space Hamster!

Illyria:
A miniature giant space hamster. I... I must admit, Minsc, I find that to be rather hard to believe.

Minsc:
Ah, but Boo is Boo, and will always be Boo! Or... at least, this is what Boo tells me.


---------------------------------------------

Minsc:
Illyria, Boo is curious... do you believe that everything we do is fore-ordained?

Illyria:
I am not sure... perhaps. I believe that some things can be warned against, or possibilities predicted... but I am not sure that *everything* is predetermined. What do you think, Minsc?

Minsc:
Eh... I am not sure. Boo believes that some things are su-sept-ible to pred-ick-shon, and will happen at some point... but not all things are thus. Minsc is not sure what Boo is saying, but he agrees with Boo even so.

Illyria:
I am waiting, Minsc... what do YOU think?

Minsc:
I believe that... I believe that Boo and Minsc were destined to meet, and Minsc and Dynaheir, and Minsc and <CHARNAME>... and Minsc would also like to think that Illyria and Minsc were destined to meet. We go through life, and some people make us feel good, and others bad... some of us would meet each other, whatever happened.
=
Minsc would not be the same if he had not met Dynaheir, nor if he had not met Boo. Illyria would not be the same if she had not met Oralle, or <CHARNAME>. Its the same thing.

Illyria:
Wow... I had never thought about it like that. Just who are you, Minsc? What have you done with the Minsc I used to know? The one who always fell back on Boo?

Minsc:
Minsc is Minsc! Minsc has never been anything but Minsc...

Illyria:
Don't worry Minsc... I'm just teasing.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Minsc...?

Minsc:
Yes?

Illyria:
Who was Dynaheir?

Minsc:
(silence)
=
Dynaheir was... she was a witch of great inner beauty. She was a friend to Minsc and Boo, and we failed her. Boo says...

Illyria:
Minsc, as much as I may value Boo's opinion, please, I am asking you.

Minsc:
Perhaps... Perhaps I should start in the beginning. In the great land of Rasheman, to ensure membership in the Ice Dragon Berserker Lodge, a man must pledge his service to a Wychlaran and serve her.

Minsc:
I do not know why exactly, I am not knowledgeable in this things, but Dynaheir came to me and told me that we were to travel together. She was a powerful Wychlaran, and it was an honour to serve her. As we travelled, Dynaheir taught me of the world around - of other people, of magic, and of many other things. She was a good friend to Minsc, and she did not deserve to die by the hands of the evil booted Irenicus.

Illyria:
I... I am sorry, Minsc.

Minsc:
It is fine, but Boo thinks we should continue on the road, lest we fall behind, and... and evil evade our righteous buttkicking.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Minsc, do you miss Rasheman?

Minsc:
Of course! Minsc and Boo long to be in Rasheman, among their fellow berserkers, kicking the foul butts of evil!

Illyria:
(Sigh) Minsc, must you ALWAYS go on about slaying evil, kicking evil in the butt, gnawing evil's eyes out... you get the idea. It does get tiresome after the seven hundred and fiftieth time.

Minsc:
Minsc will speak however he likes. Minsc and Boo have made it their mission to fight evil, wherever it may be, and it is only appropriate that we act as such!

Illyria:
Yes, but you don't need to do it ALL the time... and there are different types of evil, you know... some are less bad than others.
=
Take the Shadows Thieves and the Vampires, for example... out of those two, which is the most evil?

Minsc:
Boo says the vampires are more evil, but Minsc is confused... how can there be different types of evil? Evil is evil! It just wears different guises each time, thats all.

Illyria:
Heh, I wish it were that simple, Minsc, I really do...

Plan:

1- Viconia consenting to tell Illyria of the Drow
2- Illyria finding out what she wants to know regardless of the risk
3- Viconia enjoys watching Illyria squirm (more pleasure chambers)
4- Viconia's past, the matron mothers
5- (in Underdark) Illyria likes the darkness of the Underdark
6- (in Underdark) Illyria likes Drow Architecture

1- (LG) Illyria realises that there is good in Viconia, and Viconia doesn't deny it
2- (NG) "" ""
3- (TN) The strange balance/imbalance of Viconia's life
4- (NE) Illyria finds the shadows more comforting than the light - the splitting of the Drow and the Elves

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Viconia.. what was it like to grow up in Drow society?

Viconia:
You would like to know the inner workings of Drow society? You, an elf who is barely past her adolescence? Pah! Do you not know that the Drow are sworn enemies of the Surface Elves, Illyria?

Illyria:
I.. of course I do, Viconia. I have always been interested by Drow culture, however.. as much as it disturbs me. I would like to know more about it.

Viconia:
You are an odd surface elf, are you not? Your request is quaint, yet rather amusing. Why even bother asking, elg'caress?

Illyria:
I am not not exactly like other elves, Viconia. I find Drow culture fascinating... rather morbid, but certainly fascinating.

Viconia:
Is that so? They say curiosity killed the cat. However, I will devulge some details of our ways to you, unworthy one.

Illyria:
Really? Thankyou, Viconia.

Viconia:
Do not thank me, half blood, until you have heard what I have to say.

Illyria:
Well.. I thank you anyway. Can you tell me ab-

Viconia:
I did not say it was for you to ask - I will tell you if and when and how I feel like. Do not pester me for information.

---------------------------------------------

Viconia:
...I have told you time, and time again, tu'rilthiir, do not speak unless spoken to!

Viconia:
Shar, belbau uns'aa z'ress...

Illyria:
Please. Would you... would you tell me of the Drow, Viconia?

Viconia:
Do you *truly* wish to know of the Drow, girl? Humans are known for their intolerence of information which disgusts them, and I have no patience for it.

Illyria:
I am not a human, Viconia, I am a half-elf, and have far more endurance than I suspect you give me credit for. Besides... it cannot be that bad, can it?

Viconia:
Hah... we will see. For once I shall be the teacher, and you the obedient student. This may prove more enjoyable than I had originally predicted.

Viconia:
Let us begin... The Pleasure Chambers. The Drow Pleasure Chambers are the culmination of thousands of years of perfection and perfecting. In Drow culture, pleasure is nothing less than an artform...

---------------------------------------------

Viconia:
...and so the female mounts the rivvin male, who is stretched upon a bed of silk, tied to the bedposts.

Illyria:
(Blushing furiously) Viconia, is this not slightly *too* in-depth?

Viconia:
You asked me to give you a full description, half-blood, and so I gave it. Was my original assumption that you could not handle the Drow correct, Illyria? Tell me; is it true you fled Evermeet because you were a half-elf? I am almost disgusted a female such as yourself was not treated with the respect females are deserving of. Such a body, many Drow would kill for such a prize.

Illyria:
Are you... complimenting me, Viconia?

Viconia:
Perhaps. But this is not the point of discussion at hand. I would recommend you listen if you wish to learn more- I am getting impatient with you, Illyria, and you would do well not to stoke my ire. Did you cravenly flee Evermeet because you were insulted for your... questionable heritage?

Illyria:
My 'questionable' heritage is partly why I am here, I admit to that, but it is not the whole reason. I am sure you could, as these humans would say, 'ask around'.

Viconia:
So the half-breed has spirit. Do not seek to rise above yourself, Illyria, it would be far easier not to tell you the ways than do as I am attempting to.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
...so the Matron Mothers flay those who displease them? How... how barbaric... effective, though, I imagine...

Viconia:
Barbaric? No. It is merely how it is. Those that displease the Matron Mother must be disposed of, even if it is just to provide an example of what will happen to anyone who fails her.

Illyria:
I... I suppose. In a way, it is rather similar to several cultures I can think of right now; Rashemi, in which the Hathran rule, but they do what they must to keep the Rashemi barbarians in order. Thay functions similarly, too, if I recall correctly.

Viconia:
You would compare my culture with those... human cultures? How... amusing, and yet wrong. Drow culture is nothing like the cultures you mentioned.

Illyria:
That is how it came across to me... well, how does it differ?

Viconia:
It differs in that it is better, child. The Drow run a clean society in which everyone has their place. There is no crime or other such human trivialities- these simply would not be tolerated.

Illyria:
Perhaps... I disagree, but let me think on it. Perhaps you have a point, Viconia.

Imoen:
Illyria, what was it like on Evermeet? I remember reading about it in a book in Candlekeep, but it didn't say very much - only that it was the Retreat of the Elves, and it was incredibly hard to gain access to it.

Illyria:
It was... simultaneously wondrous, and painful. I have both good and bad memories of it.
=
Many of the elves on Evermeet are extremely racist; the Ar’Tel’Quessir in particular. I was ridiculed for my ancestry, and often publically insulted and humiliated.

Imoen:
But... thats... I thought elves were good! You know, friendly, helpful...

Illyria:
The Teu’Tel’Quessir are the ones you have probably seen the most often. Not many gold elves mingle with humans, they believe themselves better than the other races.

Imoen:
The... tew-whatsits?

Illyria:
Oh! Heh... I mean, the moon elves. The Teu’Tel’Quessir are moon elves, the Ar'Tel'Quessir are gold elves, the Sy’Tel’Quessir are wood elves, and the green and aquatic elves are just that. (grin)

Imoen:
Heh, okay. So, what is Evermeet itself like?

Illyria:
Well, it has breathtakingly large mountains, beautiful cities, and the forests are spectacular...

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Imoen... is that my brooch? Wait a moment...

Imoen:
Oh, I, uh, you dropped it, and I just, uh, picked it up. You can have it back now.

Illyria:
Oh, thankyou!

Imoen:
(Phew... I must be out of practice!)

Illyria:
Did you say something?

Imoen:
Oh, nothing...


Illyria:
Mazzy, what is it like living the life of a halfling adventurer?

Mazzy:
It is rather stifling sometimes, I must admit. Many adventuring groups simply refuse me my requests to join because I am a halfling.

Illyria:
That must be incredibly frustrating.

Mazzy:
Moderately so, yes. My efforts to join a group succeeded, eventually, and I met Patrick. (she sighs)

Illyria:
Do you miss him, Mazzy?

Mazzy:
More than you could possibly imagine. But, as Arvoreen gives me strength, I shall continue in my quest to help <CHARNAME> whenever <PRO_HESHE> is in need of it.

Illyria:
I envy your dedication and passion.

Mazzy:
I thank you. It is not often an adventurer such as myself recieves such praise, Illyria.

Illyria:
I shall make an effort to compliment you more often then.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Why do you aspire to be a paladin, Mazzy? I must admit, I do not fully understand your reasons.

Mazzy:
Paladins are the ultimate force of good, Illyria, and seek to rid of the world of evil, much as I do. It would only be fitting for me to join their ranks, but they cannot accept me because I am a halfling. It is *most* frustrating.

Illyria:
Ah, I see. So why does Arvoreen not have paladins? Human gods do, why not halfling?

Mazzy:
It is an unspoken rule amongst the gods that only humans can become paladins. I do not know why, but I suspect it has something to do with a lost wager.

Illyria:
A lost... wager? Mazzy, do not be silly, the gods would not wager! They are gods.

Mazzy:
The elven gods, perhaps, but other gods are more lenient towards gambling, I assure you.

Mazzy:
...I am joking, Illyria. Do not worry, the gods would never do such a thing. I have many times considered the question of why the gods only allow human paladins, and I have not as of yet come up with a satisfying answer.
=
However, when I do, you shall be the first to know. (She smiles)

Illyria:
Thank you, Mazzy. I feel that it is unfair that less worthy people can become paladins, but not the valiant Mazzy. But, let us get moving... we can speak of this another time.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Mazzy, have you ever sung?

Mazzy:
Hehe, that's rather out of the blue, Illyria!

Illyria:
Heh, I know- I am feeling a bit whimsical. But, have you?

Mazzy:
Once or twice- but as I recall, my voice was abominable! I would not want another to suffer as my dear Patrick did. But it was all in good fun, I suppose.

Illyria:
Heh...

Mazzy:
How about you, Illyria? Have you ever danced, or sung? Since you brought it up, you obviously wanted me to ask.

Illyria:
Perceptive as always, Mazzy. (Blush)
=
Yes... on Evermeet, I was in the choir, at church. One of the sopranos, always at the forefront. I was pushed by my singing tutor to become a bard, and record Elvish history...

Mazzy:
Ah, so we finally come to your point. Do halflings have sung oral history?

Illyria:
Well... yes. I was just wondering.

Mazzy:
Indeed they do; in fact, although most may not know it, halflings are a very musically inclined people. We have many ballads and long, tedious adventure stories which are all terribly cliche.
=
Just like any other culture, really. Isn't it strange how we seem to segregate ourselves, when really we are all so similar?

Illyria:
Racial prejudice has ever been folly. Thank you for answering my rather convoluted question, Mazzy, I appreciate it.

Mazzy:
No problem at all. Perhaps I gave you some food for thought- I certainly hope so, anywho!



Illyria:
Aerie, I am curious. What was it like to be in the circus?

Aerie:
It... it was hard there. Some of the performers were so full of hatred, they would taunt me about my... my wings..
=
They would tease me, call me names. Uncle Quayle was all I had. If it weren't for him, I... I don't know what I would have done...

Illyria:
I know what you mean, in a way. On Evermeet, many purist elves spat at me when I encountered them in the marketplace, or in the Churches. They threatened terrible things, but my protector, Oralle, would have none of it and often reported them to the authorities.

Aerie:
It's nice to have someone who... who understands, Illyria. But, the loss of- of my wings is not something I think I will ever forget...

Illyria:
What is it like, Aerie? Without wings?

Aerie:
You- You w-would ask m-me that?! Don't you k-know what I've b-been through? Just.. j-just go away, Illyria, I don't want to t-talk to... to you anymore.

---------------------------------------------

Illyria
Aerie, I am sincerely sorry... sometimes I tend to speak before I think.

Aerie:
Oh, it's fine Illyria.

Illyria:
I am still sorry, however

Illyria:
I remember when Mother and I were out in one of the trading villages, and I said something about one of the store keepers who had broken his ear...
=
He.. he hit me. Hard. Across the mouth. Mother said it almost broke my jaw. I had completely forgotten that. I wonder why it is we lose sight of the bad things which happen to us as we age.

Aerie:
I... I don't know. Perhaps its that our minds veil those things we don't want to remember... but some th-things are just t-too horrific for us to deal with, s-sometimes...

---------------------------------------------

Illyria:
Aerie, why did you decide to become a cleric and a magic user? I have always thought they were rather opposite.

Aerie:
Well, back home, our people where divided into several classes. Some were aerial warriors who protected us, whilst others persued the arts of magicka. Seeing how I feel about combat, magic was the best choice for me. You see, we were taught about our goddess, Aerdrie Faenya, as well as the tomes of arcane magic. It... came naturally, I think. They're not so different.

Illyria:
I suppose not. What was it like to live with the Avariel, Aerie?
=
You do not have to answer if you do not wish to, I am just curious. I enjoy learning about new cultures, and such a mythical one... it is simply too good an opportunity to pass up.

Aerie:
What was it like? Oh... it's so hard to describe. We lived in great sanctuaries of glass and marble, high up in the mountains surrounded by the clouds. I close my eyes and I can still recall the wind flying past my face as I soar through the air... but when I open my eyes I am once again on this ground. Forever shackled to the Earth as if I am nothing more then human. I... I miss it dearly.

Illyria:
I can tell. On Evermeet, I loved the mountains... I always wished I could soar up on the thermals, and look at the ground from on high, watching the people moving about like ants. I would climb as high as I could, and look down... but it was not the same, I imagine.

Aerie:
I know... Flying is the ultimate freedom. To be able to go where you please... any treetop, any mountain, any river... nothing was beyond my reach. I remember when I used to frequent the forests at the feet of our mountain, just watching the birds and the deers taking a drink in the stream... (sighs softly)

Illyria:
I must admit, I am a bit jealous of your past. Mine was not near as interesting as your own. I did not mean it that way, Aerie! I mean, growing up amongst a fabled race, being able to fly... There have been points in my life where I would have given almost anything for that freedom.

Aerie:
There are many points in my life where I would give anything to have it back...so I can relate a little, I think. The rest of my past isn't something to be envious of, Illyria... Would you mind if we saved the rest until later, though? I...feel homesick, all of a sudden.

Illyria:
Of course.



Keldorn:
The smallest voice can sometimes make the biggest difference, Illyria... as has been proved many times in the past.

Illyria:
But what influence could I possibly have had on Evermeet, Keldorn? I am a half-elf, hated, at least pitied- I am the scourge of society!

Keldorn:
I do not know the inner workings of Elven Society, but from what I have seen of elves, they are a noble people, and are always willing to listen to the opinions of others.

Illyria:
Perhaps here, on the Mainland, but on Evermeet I was a creature to be pitied, disgusting, because I had human blood running through my veins.

Keldorn:
I do not believe you are filth for having elven blood running through your veins... Why should they not think the opposite?

Illyria:
You are obviously far more noble than the elves I have known, Keldorn.

Keldorn:
Perhaps a more thorough search would reveal kind elven souls- in every society there are some who will abuse and defile, but I would like to believe that there are also those who stand as paragons of virtue and good, as well. But, let us not dawdle behind any longer, I am sure we have far more important things to attend to.

---------------------------------------------

Keldorn:
Illyria, I have been pondering what you told me last time we spoke, on prejudice. I must admit, I had previously found this racial arrogance in some elves, and it saddens me that members of such a noble race of beings would have such ingrained disgust of others.

Illyria:
I must admit, it has been heavy on my mind as well, Keldorn... I believe you are right, in that there are elves who may stand as paragons of virtue and light. Just because I have had a bad experience with elves does not mean I should label an entire race as prejudiced.

Keldorn:
I would not call your time on Evermeet as a known half-elf 'one bad experience'... I do not envy you what happened. My own was admittedly dull, but at least I did not live in poverty or similar.

Illyria:
Do I detect a hint of regret, Keldorn? Were you such a-

Keldorn:
A grouchy old man even then?

Illyria:
I did not mean...

Keldorn:
(Slight smile) Don't worry, Illyria, I may be boring and old, but at least I have the wisdom to know it, unlike many others. Indeed, travelling with <CHARNAME> has been one of the singlemost interesting things I have done for a long time- beauracracy has never been one of my interests, I must admit.

Illyria:
Heh... I am glad I didn't cause offense. It is nice to know that appearance is not everything, Keldorn.



Illyria:
Edwin, you are a Red Wizard, am I correct?

Edwin:
I compliment you on your sluggish perception, elf. Perhaps next time I should wear a tag saying "Edwin Oddesseiron, Red Wizard extraordinaire. No job openings.".

Illyria:
I see. Well then, riddle me this, oh great Red Wizard: is it true the Hathran are as powerful as some say?

Edwin:
Hah! The Hathran are nothing compared to the might of Edwin Odesseiron! (And the Red Wizards of Thay, of course, though these simians would not recognize them if one punched them in the face. All they need to know is me.)

Illyria:
So they are hardly a threat to Thay, one that the Red Wizards have failed to conquer in millenia?

Edwin:
Perfection has no deadline. (Yes... yes, that should do.)

Illyria:
I will keep that in mind, Edwin.


Kivan

Illyria: Kivan, I take it you had an acquaintance with Aerie's foster father, Quayle? In the Circus you mentioned something about him 'not changing one bit'. What did you mean?

Kivan: Prying into another's affairs is not a way to make smalltalk, Illyria. But, yes, I once had a passing acquaintance with Quayle. He was not a man I would like to have travelled with.

Illyria: I apologise. It is simply that I know so little about you-

Kivan: And I would prefer to keep it that way.

Illyria: I understand. 



In Athkatla, after chapter 2:

Illyria: Athkatla seems to be falling apart at the seams... the very walls are disintegrating. I wonder if it is due to shoddy construction or the slow encroachment of nature.

Cernd: Cities have a way of dying from the inside, much like a tree with dryrot. It sucks up the food and resources from the plants around it before finally dying, and remaining a monument to the eternal cycle of life and death.

Illyria: I take it you aren't very fond of cities, being a Druid?

Cernd: Cities serve their purpose in the great plan, but humans build enormous cities which replace nature rather than live with it. The great elven cities are built to take advantage of nature, rather than encroach upon it or kill it, as you would well know. It would be wonderful if humans could set aside their racial prejudices and use the elves as an example. (He sighs.)

Illyria: You make it sound like you aren't a human, Cernd.

Cernd: Sometimes I wish I was not. Humans have done terrible things to nature; what we see here is but one of them. I hope one day to help repair the damage we humans have done, but for the moment all we can do is try to prevent more waste and death.

Illyria: (Illyria smiles slightly.) I wish with all my heart that you can achieve your dream, Cernd, as ambitious as it may be... and though that may sound terribly cliche and prosaic, I wish it all the same.