Session 71
General Summary
Drop Off & Pick Up Services by The Deep End
Upon tying up the hostages real good, the group debated whether or not they should even bother interrogating them. Rodric investigated each of the white masked individual and removed the spell-casting focus from the slightly more clean individual. Beneath their robes, all but the caster seem to have had physical modifications made, with bone-like claws protruding from their hands, traces of dried blood still lingering. The caster seems perfectly normal, but has the same straight laced expression and empty look in his eyes as the others.
Artemilla noted that, if they wish to interrogate them and keep a few hostages, perhaps the explosives should be removed. Declan took a look at the explosives once they were removed, but given his unfamiliarity with the technology was unable to conclude much besides... well, they explode. Perhaps Trix might know? Perhaps we can look at it back at the Ascetics camp! Artemilla firmly said that they can do so... elsewhere.
A single question was asked and when the white masks gave no response, the Deep End concluded that they weren't going to get anything. Moira attempted to dispel magic in case there was something affecting their mind. Ghilani followed that with Detect Magic and... while they don't seem to be under any magical effects per se... there is something off about them. Ghilani suspects that they don't have souls. Wasn't The Doctor trying to achieve that in the Purifying Ward?
Artemilla noted that, if they wish to interrogate them and keep a few hostages, perhaps the explosives should be removed. Declan took a look at the explosives once they were removed, but given his unfamiliarity with the technology was unable to conclude much besides... well, they explode. Perhaps Trix might know? Perhaps we can look at it back at the Ascetics camp! Artemilla firmly said that they can do so... elsewhere.
A single question was asked and when the white masks gave no response, the Deep End concluded that they weren't going to get anything. Moira attempted to dispel magic in case there was something affecting their mind. Ghilani followed that with Detect Magic and... while they don't seem to be under any magical effects per se... there is something off about them. Ghilani suspects that they don't have souls. Wasn't The Doctor trying to achieve that in the Purifying Ward?
Artemilla swiftly decapitated the two hostages the Deep End chose not to take. Their bodies immediately went up in flames – may it all be purified in fire. They then promised to head to the volcano in the near future and turned on their heel and headed in the direction of their camp. Back at the boat, Trix agreed to take a look at the explosives while the others headed to the Bronze Queen, vessel of the Grand Admiral of the Moonguard.
The Grand Admiral seems a bit frustrated, but was pleased enough to see the Deep End on the island of Therarask. Have you perhaps found any information on the Pirate Lord in your travels? When the smiley face marking was mentioned, the Grand Admiral remarked that certainly the Pirate Lord wouldn't be THAT stupid. The Deep End isn't surprised. She was more than willing to house the hostages in her brig and would send someone to attempt an interrogation. She has full faith in her son's abilities. Rani spoke to the Grand Admiral in private afterwards, showing her the map and mentioning how it seemed to ping around the area, but couldn't pinpoint the Pirate Lord. The Grand Admiral seemed to sigh; her diviners have been struggling as well. When Rani offered to use the map, the Grand Admiral encouraged her to use it for her own targets. It seems clear that the Pirate Lord and these white masks are connected in some way.
Nadeen – previously seen using a terrible mustache as a disguise – seems to be... particularly well versed in interrogation techniques. When talking and word games were not working... he switched to a more efficient and malicious approach. Even still, after an hour of interrogation... the white masks said absolutely nothing. They either know very little, are fanatics, or they fear whoever they work for far more than Nadeen. he advised the group to be careful with how they handle the hostages. After being told that he was doing a great job, Nadeen seemed frustrated and he turned and promptly left. Clearly, he must be missing Cali.
Trix was able to diffuse the bombs, but as this is not her area of expertise she doesn't have much insight beyond that. She suspects they had an alternative detonation source or that it was directly connected to whoever they were strapped onto. With the bombs resolved, the next question was raised: Do we need to pick up Newt? How do we want to go about doing that? Newt mentioned in a sending that he has had an overnight visitor. His sister? Moira prayed to Caliban to allow her to see through her sweet boy's eyes (because Newt is really not worth that high level of a spell to Scry). She was immediately filled with current state of Calibird: I AM ANGERED. OUTRAGED. HOW DARE THEY BIND MY WINGS. Moira then was able to perceive through Calibird, seeing a lightly smog covered area near the coast. And a panicked Newt.
Having a location, Moira told Newt to stay put as they teleported the Diving Board into the bay around Eredet. Upon pulling into port, Dr. Valdove and Mary – donning a cloak with the hood drawn – quickly came aboard. Mary mentioned that she has less access to the Tower Citadel with Lady La'Talenn's departure. Dr. Valdove took a look at the white-masks, initially asking why they were disguised as "Boys Doing Something Masculine" and then decided that she didn't want to know that answer... she's his boss, after all. Upon an initial inspection, there is clearly something off... it is both fascinating and alarming. She then, along with Mary, vanished with the two hostages.
Time to go get Newt! Ghilani teleported them to... well, its certainly an area covered by smog. Rani was easily able to tell which way to go to get closer to the coast and after walking for two hours, they paused. Rani, saving the day once more, sensed the faintest ping of a Celestial and, after running in random directions for a minute, was able to pinpoint the directions. Half an hour later, Calibird came flying out of the light smog to smack Moira in the face, grabbing onto her cheeks with his wings. The angry, squawking bird was then reassured by Moira – she will never ask him to do that again. He was followed shortly by a panicked Newt: "Don't fly away from me!".
The group had a discussion standing amidst the light smog. Your siblings are fine, but one of them attacks us, by the way. Was her name Lollith? She apparently took something from newt was he was sleeping. They debated whether or not it was worse that someone took something from Newt... or if someone had put something into Newt. However, after inspection, the wound seems to be a worse version of those received after donating blood to Auntie Four. In Ghilani's mind, Primus seemed intrigued. There is power in blood... for some, even those who do not practice blood magic, they may have something else within the crimson red. Tension then rose between newt and Declan and in the matter of a few minutes, they were no longer on speaking terms. If you were there, maybe you could have flown after her. Sorry, I had things to do! But he wasn't able to get into the House of Death and Sage didn't give Newt much information to go off of.
Rani softly spoke to Newt, bumping his arm. We could have used you... I understand the pull of family. I can't return home because I know I wouldn't be able to leave them knowing what's going on. We really needed you. Newt apologized for leaving, but he was scared... and unfortunately the hellhole that is Ah'Shal is familiar for him. When the smog started to get to those not used to or adapted to it, they returned to the Diving Board.
The Grand Admiral seems a bit frustrated, but was pleased enough to see the Deep End on the island of Therarask. Have you perhaps found any information on the Pirate Lord in your travels? When the smiley face marking was mentioned, the Grand Admiral remarked that certainly the Pirate Lord wouldn't be THAT stupid. The Deep End isn't surprised. She was more than willing to house the hostages in her brig and would send someone to attempt an interrogation. She has full faith in her son's abilities. Rani spoke to the Grand Admiral in private afterwards, showing her the map and mentioning how it seemed to ping around the area, but couldn't pinpoint the Pirate Lord. The Grand Admiral seemed to sigh; her diviners have been struggling as well. When Rani offered to use the map, the Grand Admiral encouraged her to use it for her own targets. It seems clear that the Pirate Lord and these white masks are connected in some way.
Nadeen – previously seen using a terrible mustache as a disguise – seems to be... particularly well versed in interrogation techniques. When talking and word games were not working... he switched to a more efficient and malicious approach. Even still, after an hour of interrogation... the white masks said absolutely nothing. They either know very little, are fanatics, or they fear whoever they work for far more than Nadeen. he advised the group to be careful with how they handle the hostages. After being told that he was doing a great job, Nadeen seemed frustrated and he turned and promptly left. Clearly, he must be missing Cali.
Trix was able to diffuse the bombs, but as this is not her area of expertise she doesn't have much insight beyond that. She suspects they had an alternative detonation source or that it was directly connected to whoever they were strapped onto. With the bombs resolved, the next question was raised: Do we need to pick up Newt? How do we want to go about doing that? Newt mentioned in a sending that he has had an overnight visitor. His sister? Moira prayed to Caliban to allow her to see through her sweet boy's eyes (because Newt is really not worth that high level of a spell to Scry). She was immediately filled with current state of Calibird: I AM ANGERED. OUTRAGED. HOW DARE THEY BIND MY WINGS. Moira then was able to perceive through Calibird, seeing a lightly smog covered area near the coast. And a panicked Newt.
Having a location, Moira told Newt to stay put as they teleported the Diving Board into the bay around Eredet. Upon pulling into port, Dr. Valdove and Mary – donning a cloak with the hood drawn – quickly came aboard. Mary mentioned that she has less access to the Tower Citadel with Lady La'Talenn's departure. Dr. Valdove took a look at the white-masks, initially asking why they were disguised as "Boys Doing Something Masculine" and then decided that she didn't want to know that answer... she's his boss, after all. Upon an initial inspection, there is clearly something off... it is both fascinating and alarming. She then, along with Mary, vanished with the two hostages.
Time to go get Newt! Ghilani teleported them to... well, its certainly an area covered by smog. Rani was easily able to tell which way to go to get closer to the coast and after walking for two hours, they paused. Rani, saving the day once more, sensed the faintest ping of a Celestial and, after running in random directions for a minute, was able to pinpoint the directions. Half an hour later, Calibird came flying out of the light smog to smack Moira in the face, grabbing onto her cheeks with his wings. The angry, squawking bird was then reassured by Moira – she will never ask him to do that again. He was followed shortly by a panicked Newt: "Don't fly away from me!".
The group had a discussion standing amidst the light smog. Your siblings are fine, but one of them attacks us, by the way. Was her name Lollith? She apparently took something from newt was he was sleeping. They debated whether or not it was worse that someone took something from Newt... or if someone had put something into Newt. However, after inspection, the wound seems to be a worse version of those received after donating blood to Auntie Four. In Ghilani's mind, Primus seemed intrigued. There is power in blood... for some, even those who do not practice blood magic, they may have something else within the crimson red. Tension then rose between newt and Declan and in the matter of a few minutes, they were no longer on speaking terms. If you were there, maybe you could have flown after her. Sorry, I had things to do! But he wasn't able to get into the House of Death and Sage didn't give Newt much information to go off of.
Rani softly spoke to Newt, bumping his arm. We could have used you... I understand the pull of family. I can't return home because I know I wouldn't be able to leave them knowing what's going on. We really needed you. Newt apologized for leaving, but he was scared... and unfortunately the hellhole that is Ah'Shal is familiar for him. When the smog started to get to those not used to or adapted to it, they returned to the Diving Board.
This Could Have Been an Email, Ironborn
Moving through the city, the people of Eredet seem to be setting up decorations and purchasing colorful, large lanterns and oil supplies. It seems the entire city is gearing up for the end of the year festivities. The crew also took a moment to remind Declan that they have mandated holidays coming up! Thank for paying us though!
Feeling it best not to keep the Council waiting – as someone must have seen them arrive – they began to move towards the Tower Citadel. They were immediately flagged down by High Lord Valdove's attendant, who brought them to the High Lord's offices in the Tower Citadel. The High Lord stated his trust and faith in the group, yet reiterated that they no longer just represent themselves. They represent – as a group – the entire High Dremoran Council and his name above all else. He trusts his daughter and he trusts them to do what they feel is best, but even a brief bit of communication would prepare him ot navigate the political battlefield of the Council and the capital a bit better.
Half of the Council is in town and some seem to be considering Ironborn's words. If you wish to have the entire Council convened that can be done. A new member may be joining... from Ragna. Rani and Declan made eye contact, both hoping that it was who they think it is. How nice would it be to have someone else on their side!
Checking in with Dr. Valdove while High Lord Valdove rounded up the Council, she was able to break into their minds. Unfortunately, it is hard to glean anything from their perspective and she cannot tell if there were methods used to suppress their knowledge or if they were deliberately kept in the dark. She can tell that they were buying and moving product on Therarask, but it is hard to discern what. She took a look at Moira again... and it seems she's reinforced enough in her thoughts to share her theory. The soul is the vessel for magic. Some individuals can tap into naturally and others cannot. Some required the intervention of a god to open the flow of magical ability and some find other means. Because of its nature, there are "rules" or scaffolding that it imposes on humanoids. Moira has been... distorted by her passenger and there is evidence on the white masks that something similar has been done. The remnants of something similar, but nothing currently active. She will see if she can learn more. She requested that Ghilani speak with her again... she may have an idea of how to assist him with the crystals. She also mentioned speaking with Pekk and that there is an odd tension between Ironborn and Steelwind... something must be going on.
Within the Council chambers, Ironborn was speaking with Steelwind, Valdove was speaking with the Grand Priest, Pekk seemed to be mulling something over, and Delkova seemed a bit distracted. A few moments after their arrival, a familiar figure entered the room, his entourage stopping at the doorway. Leon seems to have been chosen by the new Princess Elect to represent Ragna on the High Council and he has brought two of the other consorts with him: Octavion and Israfel.
The Grand Priest, seemingly incredibly tired, started the meeting. Ironborn declared, once more, his believe that the Deep End is not up to scuff. How can they be trusted to prioritize properly? They have diverted to Pleasure Row and split... and for what? Rani gave an immaculate speech in response. How dare you doubt our devotion? The wheel must turn and how can it keep turning if we do not give ourselves a break? We destroyed the crystals – with the help of your technology. And we have chosen to seek the favor of the gods in the chance that we require further aid. That is why we were in Therarask, the Grand Priest can attest to this. We plan to seek the aid of Elis and two of the cardinal gods, which is why Newt was in Ah'Shal. And while we were in Therarask, we apprehended some white masks. Our trip was not a vacation or for folly as you may assume.
High Lord Valdove backed Rani, insisting that yes, better communication may be required, but warriors should be permitted to function with some degree of independence. Leon also supported the group, stating that the group could not have gone to Pleasure Row for pure folly. They are equipped to resist after all! They turned down an opportunity with some of the finest consort of Ragna. And they were imperative in both fighting and gaining information. It allowed them to remove the foul creature and link Bonebreaker to its emergence. Ragna is in their debt.
With some additional back and forth between Ironborn, Delkova, and the Grand Priest - tensions flaring - the Grand Priest declared an end to the meeting. He has three festivals to prepare for! This should have been a mass sending!
Valdove offered his approval of Rani's speech and the group. In his youth when he commanded soldier, it is often best to trust those who have proven capable and grant them some independence. He has backed them and will continue to defend them to the best of his ability. Leon then approached. What a pleasure to see you all again! Ah yes, I have been following Dr. Valdove's work. It is quite fascinating. Thank you for the reminder! I will certainly reach out. And Azalea says hello. Delkova then approached, praising Rani for her speech. If they wish to speak with him on their request for "man passes", he is happy to oblige. He nodded to Newt and Declan, but ignored Ghilani completely.
Pekk lingered in the Council chambers and Rani, Newt, and Declan approached. As someone with wings (and a high passive), Newt noticed that... Pekk's don't quite sit right. The arrow that you mentioned... Pekk noted that there was one found at the mines on the outskirts of the Elian mountains. Have you heard of Villam shards? They are also, more commonly, known as lightning shards. They are used in traditional practices and for various other things, but it was recently discovered that they can serve... as power sources. However, the mines have been attacked and shipments continuously stolen. If you want a passage to Elios, Pekk will put his neck on the line if you do things for him: Find Fi-Fi-Fella-Fema Fowell's original lens and stop the attacks on Villam mines. He fears that perhaps things are very connected... and there is a sickness in his people. It has recently reached the City of Elios. He then dismissed himself, expressing a hesitant trust in the group.
Ironborn and Steelwind took the group to Ironborn's office. Ironborn suspects that the Factory Overlords of Ah'Shal are keeping information hidden and Steelwind seemed sheepish and nervous at the statement. Ironborn suspects the one of them has found the crystals and is keeping it secret it hopes of harnessing power or other profit from it. He wishes this to be resolved and quickly. Steelwind spoke, mentioning that although an outbreak has been revealed to the broader continent, the true scale has been kept very hushed. The factories of Ah'Shal cannot cease... they must continue, especially in these trying times.
Ironborn mentioned that he and Steelwind have a "spy" (since we are speaking frankly) on the ground: Dr. Cyrus Underbrink. He has been sponsored by the Overlords and thus, may have an in with all of them, at least to some degree. Furthermore, he knows Ah'Shal very well. He is capable and may be helpful in a variety of ways. He is in Ah'Shal to devise an alternative solution to the issues that have arisen amidst the work force, but Ironborn believes that it would be preferable to pursue the crystal removal as the primary solution.
Rani stayed behind to emphasize her intent to work alongside Ironborn. If you do this and do it quickly... consider Ironborn completely in your court. You will hear no further complaint from him. Cue the world's most awkward elevator ride with Ghilani oblivious between Newt and Declan.
Delkova was more than happy to welcome Moira and Rani into his floral office. Although he cannot get them "man passes", he can get them an audience with Queen Eleté. If he can entrust both of them, there is a matter that has caused the Queen some strife. If you were to offer your assistance, I'm sure she'd be more than happy to listen. He also mentioned that an apology – or grand gesture as Rani suggested – to Evanthé would certainly go a long way. He mentioned that she was married... until recently and he seemed oddly bothered by that fact. Just let him know and he will arrange the meeting.
Speaking with the Grand Priest, Newt inquired if the Grand Priest could get him into the House of Death. After asking about why he found he couldn't get in as the doors should be open, Newt said that he has the Ire and the he suspects association with Undead and Undying. The Grand Priest looked at Newt through his staff... he doesn't see anything that would indicate an alteration. Ghosts and Specters are an odd class. They fall generally more under Ah'Shal's domain with their association to souls than they do to traditional undead. However, High Priest Baladon may be able to expand upon that more. He provided Newt with a written note, though noted it is not guaranteed an entry.
Declan lingered behind to speak further with the Grand Priest, asking about Tel'Rhea's rule regarding Beloveds. From the perspective of religious tenets of The One, it was the Creator God that gave us free will and claiming a beloved upon their birth could be construed as a violation of that right. A better response may be acquired from the Ladies of Life or the High Priestess herself, Queen Eleté. The Grand Priest remarked that Declan is intriguing, but simply shrugged and did not elaborate. he then dismissed him as he has festivity prep to return to.
Reuniting in the Tower of Lark and musing over sand cats, Ghilani expressed an interest in going to see mistress 8. Rani found Porysis speaking with three women of various ages. Do you ever think about Azhi? Hm, from time to time. Do you know that she's fallen into slavery to the Green Dragon Clan? Oh, she has? How unfortunate. Would you even save her? Porysis seemed to think for a moment. If a spot opened up... he could put in a good word.
Ghilani spoke with Mistress 8 in her office. He mentioned that he had been to the Compound... its so old and broken. When was the last time you visited? Why have you not gone back? it is often hard to face those you feel you have disappointed. I hid while my sisters bled. My love fought valiantly to protect me... as he was sworn to do. It is why I dislike your friend. He treats a serious role with such flippancy. Ghilani then asked if she once helped people? You've certainly helped Rani. Mistress 8 agreed that perhaps she did, but why should she help these people? Ghilani noted that yes, some people had treated him poorly... but he was taught by his mother to help people and he doesn't feel that he can do what 8 asked and still help people. After a long pause, 8 changed her requirements: find Savant 3. She then shoved a sand seal plush into his arms and Ghilani moved for an awkward, stiff hug.
Newt then spoke with Mistress 8. He will not be pursuing that weapon. Mistress 8 seemed disappointed. Newt assured her that he cares for Ghilani and will protect him. Yet she seemed unconvinced. Talk is easy. Actions speak louder... and from what I can gather, you did not go to the Compound. You have given words, but nothing to back it. You will continue to disappoint... unless you choose to do something to change it.
Feeling it best not to keep the Council waiting – as someone must have seen them arrive – they began to move towards the Tower Citadel. They were immediately flagged down by High Lord Valdove's attendant, who brought them to the High Lord's offices in the Tower Citadel. The High Lord stated his trust and faith in the group, yet reiterated that they no longer just represent themselves. They represent – as a group – the entire High Dremoran Council and his name above all else. He trusts his daughter and he trusts them to do what they feel is best, but even a brief bit of communication would prepare him ot navigate the political battlefield of the Council and the capital a bit better.
Half of the Council is in town and some seem to be considering Ironborn's words. If you wish to have the entire Council convened that can be done. A new member may be joining... from Ragna. Rani and Declan made eye contact, both hoping that it was who they think it is. How nice would it be to have someone else on their side!
Checking in with Dr. Valdove while High Lord Valdove rounded up the Council, she was able to break into their minds. Unfortunately, it is hard to glean anything from their perspective and she cannot tell if there were methods used to suppress their knowledge or if they were deliberately kept in the dark. She can tell that they were buying and moving product on Therarask, but it is hard to discern what. She took a look at Moira again... and it seems she's reinforced enough in her thoughts to share her theory. The soul is the vessel for magic. Some individuals can tap into naturally and others cannot. Some required the intervention of a god to open the flow of magical ability and some find other means. Because of its nature, there are "rules" or scaffolding that it imposes on humanoids. Moira has been... distorted by her passenger and there is evidence on the white masks that something similar has been done. The remnants of something similar, but nothing currently active. She will see if she can learn more. She requested that Ghilani speak with her again... she may have an idea of how to assist him with the crystals. She also mentioned speaking with Pekk and that there is an odd tension between Ironborn and Steelwind... something must be going on.
Within the Council chambers, Ironborn was speaking with Steelwind, Valdove was speaking with the Grand Priest, Pekk seemed to be mulling something over, and Delkova seemed a bit distracted. A few moments after their arrival, a familiar figure entered the room, his entourage stopping at the doorway. Leon seems to have been chosen by the new Princess Elect to represent Ragna on the High Council and he has brought two of the other consorts with him: Octavion and Israfel.
The Grand Priest, seemingly incredibly tired, started the meeting. Ironborn declared, once more, his believe that the Deep End is not up to scuff. How can they be trusted to prioritize properly? They have diverted to Pleasure Row and split... and for what? Rani gave an immaculate speech in response. How dare you doubt our devotion? The wheel must turn and how can it keep turning if we do not give ourselves a break? We destroyed the crystals – with the help of your technology. And we have chosen to seek the favor of the gods in the chance that we require further aid. That is why we were in Therarask, the Grand Priest can attest to this. We plan to seek the aid of Elis and two of the cardinal gods, which is why Newt was in Ah'Shal. And while we were in Therarask, we apprehended some white masks. Our trip was not a vacation or for folly as you may assume.
High Lord Valdove backed Rani, insisting that yes, better communication may be required, but warriors should be permitted to function with some degree of independence. Leon also supported the group, stating that the group could not have gone to Pleasure Row for pure folly. They are equipped to resist after all! They turned down an opportunity with some of the finest consort of Ragna. And they were imperative in both fighting and gaining information. It allowed them to remove the foul creature and link Bonebreaker to its emergence. Ragna is in their debt.
With some additional back and forth between Ironborn, Delkova, and the Grand Priest - tensions flaring - the Grand Priest declared an end to the meeting. He has three festivals to prepare for! This should have been a mass sending!
Valdove offered his approval of Rani's speech and the group. In his youth when he commanded soldier, it is often best to trust those who have proven capable and grant them some independence. He has backed them and will continue to defend them to the best of his ability. Leon then approached. What a pleasure to see you all again! Ah yes, I have been following Dr. Valdove's work. It is quite fascinating. Thank you for the reminder! I will certainly reach out. And Azalea says hello. Delkova then approached, praising Rani for her speech. If they wish to speak with him on their request for "man passes", he is happy to oblige. He nodded to Newt and Declan, but ignored Ghilani completely.
Pekk lingered in the Council chambers and Rani, Newt, and Declan approached. As someone with wings (and a high passive), Newt noticed that... Pekk's don't quite sit right. The arrow that you mentioned... Pekk noted that there was one found at the mines on the outskirts of the Elian mountains. Have you heard of Villam shards? They are also, more commonly, known as lightning shards. They are used in traditional practices and for various other things, but it was recently discovered that they can serve... as power sources. However, the mines have been attacked and shipments continuously stolen. If you want a passage to Elios, Pekk will put his neck on the line if you do things for him: Find Fi-Fi-Fella-Fema Fowell's original lens and stop the attacks on Villam mines. He fears that perhaps things are very connected... and there is a sickness in his people. It has recently reached the City of Elios. He then dismissed himself, expressing a hesitant trust in the group.
Ironborn and Steelwind took the group to Ironborn's office. Ironborn suspects that the Factory Overlords of Ah'Shal are keeping information hidden and Steelwind seemed sheepish and nervous at the statement. Ironborn suspects the one of them has found the crystals and is keeping it secret it hopes of harnessing power or other profit from it. He wishes this to be resolved and quickly. Steelwind spoke, mentioning that although an outbreak has been revealed to the broader continent, the true scale has been kept very hushed. The factories of Ah'Shal cannot cease... they must continue, especially in these trying times.
Ironborn mentioned that he and Steelwind have a "spy" (since we are speaking frankly) on the ground: Dr. Cyrus Underbrink. He has been sponsored by the Overlords and thus, may have an in with all of them, at least to some degree. Furthermore, he knows Ah'Shal very well. He is capable and may be helpful in a variety of ways. He is in Ah'Shal to devise an alternative solution to the issues that have arisen amidst the work force, but Ironborn believes that it would be preferable to pursue the crystal removal as the primary solution.
Rani stayed behind to emphasize her intent to work alongside Ironborn. If you do this and do it quickly... consider Ironborn completely in your court. You will hear no further complaint from him. Cue the world's most awkward elevator ride with Ghilani oblivious between Newt and Declan.
Delkova was more than happy to welcome Moira and Rani into his floral office. Although he cannot get them "man passes", he can get them an audience with Queen Eleté. If he can entrust both of them, there is a matter that has caused the Queen some strife. If you were to offer your assistance, I'm sure she'd be more than happy to listen. He also mentioned that an apology – or grand gesture as Rani suggested – to Evanthé would certainly go a long way. He mentioned that she was married... until recently and he seemed oddly bothered by that fact. Just let him know and he will arrange the meeting.
Speaking with the Grand Priest, Newt inquired if the Grand Priest could get him into the House of Death. After asking about why he found he couldn't get in as the doors should be open, Newt said that he has the Ire and the he suspects association with Undead and Undying. The Grand Priest looked at Newt through his staff... he doesn't see anything that would indicate an alteration. Ghosts and Specters are an odd class. They fall generally more under Ah'Shal's domain with their association to souls than they do to traditional undead. However, High Priest Baladon may be able to expand upon that more. He provided Newt with a written note, though noted it is not guaranteed an entry.
Declan lingered behind to speak further with the Grand Priest, asking about Tel'Rhea's rule regarding Beloveds. From the perspective of religious tenets of The One, it was the Creator God that gave us free will and claiming a beloved upon their birth could be construed as a violation of that right. A better response may be acquired from the Ladies of Life or the High Priestess herself, Queen Eleté. The Grand Priest remarked that Declan is intriguing, but simply shrugged and did not elaborate. he then dismissed him as he has festivity prep to return to.
Reuniting in the Tower of Lark and musing over sand cats, Ghilani expressed an interest in going to see mistress 8. Rani found Porysis speaking with three women of various ages. Do you ever think about Azhi? Hm, from time to time. Do you know that she's fallen into slavery to the Green Dragon Clan? Oh, she has? How unfortunate. Would you even save her? Porysis seemed to think for a moment. If a spot opened up... he could put in a good word.
Ghilani spoke with Mistress 8 in her office. He mentioned that he had been to the Compound... its so old and broken. When was the last time you visited? Why have you not gone back? it is often hard to face those you feel you have disappointed. I hid while my sisters bled. My love fought valiantly to protect me... as he was sworn to do. It is why I dislike your friend. He treats a serious role with such flippancy. Ghilani then asked if she once helped people? You've certainly helped Rani. Mistress 8 agreed that perhaps she did, but why should she help these people? Ghilani noted that yes, some people had treated him poorly... but he was taught by his mother to help people and he doesn't feel that he can do what 8 asked and still help people. After a long pause, 8 changed her requirements: find Savant 3. She then shoved a sand seal plush into his arms and Ghilani moved for an awkward, stiff hug.
Newt then spoke with Mistress 8. He will not be pursuing that weapon. Mistress 8 seemed disappointed. Newt assured her that he cares for Ghilani and will protect him. Yet she seemed unconvinced. Talk is easy. Actions speak louder... and from what I can gather, you did not go to the Compound. You have given words, but nothing to back it. You will continue to disappoint... unless you choose to do something to change it.
Report Date
10 Feb 2023
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Related Characters
- Dr. Serene Valdove
- Grand Admiral Najida
- Grand Priest Aepius
- High Lord Aedric Valdove
- High Lord Carter Steelwind
- High Lord Jasper Delkova
- High Lord Kuan-Ti Ironborn
- High Lord Leon of Ragna
- High Lord Pekk Nozhawk
- Maritza "Mary" Alvarro
- Nadeen of the Bronze Dragon Clan
- Telatrix "Trix" Mountain Strider
- The Consorts of the Prince Elect
Dear Brother
Strayed so far from you friends, did ya? They weren't very nice to me, you know. But since you seem so keen on family, I'll do you this favor and NOT slit your throat. Though father said he wouldn't be too mad if I did so. You're his... lowest priority of your little "heroic" bunch, after all! Do you need an Executioner killed? I hear there's a nasty one that hangs around you. I can take care of him for ya! I'll deliver him to you in pieces, nicely wrapped in bows! OR, how about I kill your mother for you? Some people are squeamish so I'll do you that favor! Would you prefer her head mounted on a spike or dismemberment? Arrow through the stomach? It's a slow death that way you know... A shame we couldn't talk. You look so peaceful while you sleep! I couldn't be brought to disturb you! But I'd love to know what you know about our "real" father. And maybe I would have told you what I know!Nice to meetcha brother dear, Lollith
Comments