Ambassadors for War (IC)

[daelrog]

The citizens of Avendell walked in silence through the grand hall. Royal guard stood fixed on either side, their white robes adorned with the black raptor of the Queen. At the end of the hall two great brass doors, each inch a work of art depicting the greatest victories of the nations opened without a sound, revealing in the inner chamber, the very heart of the nation, where Queen Anestras Fiorza stood, her closest advisors at her side.

The Queen was the epitome of beauty, her light-gold hair flowed around her shoulder effortlessly. Her ice-grey eyes were full of life and vigor, her short, supple body was covered up by her ceremonial armor of alabaster and silver, making her visage like that of an angel or war. Her pink, glimmering lips smiled at seeing familiar faces, and new ones, as a total of twelve of her people knelt in respect and tradition.

All around the gathered individuals were sights undreamt of on the outside. Fountains stood in place of chandeliers, the water turning to mist and then to nothing before it could reach the tallest head. Art that moved and shifted as it told stories captivated the eyes, and tapestries holding the lineage and deeds of the most honored and oldest families of Avendell hung as ancient, wondrous relics. Even the marble floor which their heads now stared at flickered with glittering lights deep within. One could spend a month in this place and still have yet to uncover all its secret wonders. To live a life in such a place would challenge heaven to match.

“I have called each of you here to perform a duty of utmost importance to our kingdom. For your skills and valor of past, you have been asked to aid us in this time of great need.” She stepped down three steps until she was at the same level as the party assembled. The islands to of Nostrum and Bendelenandria are said to be the two souls of the world, lands where any crop may grow, where temples to all the gods reside, and even where wishes are granted upon the merest thought.” She stopped once again, gauging the mood of those assembled, pleased at their calm. “Naturally these stories are somewhat exaggerated, but suffice to say, these two islands hold the key to our future success. With them, Avendell’s security and safety will be assured for generations.”

She began to pace, and her smile faded. The weight of her nation seemed to come down upon her, and to see her tearing eyes at that moment would be to invite one’s own sorrow. “Teth has made it clear that any attempt to secure these islands would be taken as a declaration of war. At this time we cannot afford a war with Teth, our two nations far too equally matched for anything short of devastation on both sides. That is why we must deter them from taking the lives of either of our peoples. That is why we must secure the aid of our fellow nations. We must make war an unjustifiable option to them, by the strength of arms.”

As if she had made some silent signal, a handful of servants, covered in white livery shuffled forward and handed each of the twelve a small parchment. These are your orders. They are to be executed without question if we are to secure the aid of Honoria in our efforts. Another team has already been sent to Desden, but it is your success that we truly rely upon.”

As the twelve read their missions and began to roll up the parchments, tiny flames emitted from the ink, washing away their orders with fire. The message was clear: each of their respective duties was their own to know, not for the prying eyes of others. The Queen had been thorough, as she had been with all things in her rule up to this point.

Queen Fiorza had ascended the thrown a mere nine years ago, when she was still in her late teens, chosen by her predecessor King Ersthelm Kavval II. Kavval II was much beloved King, but one that had allowed minor quarrels to go unchecked, minor fractures that upon the selection of the new ruler had split wide open.

However, it soon became clear why he had chosen Firoza, amongst over five hundred other candidates. Her ruthlessness and efficiency, now unchained, saw rebels, traitors, and heretics alike put to the sword. In seven years a quarrelling, desperate situation had ended with Avendell stronger, and more secure than it had been in generations. The people finally had peace, and no other in the kingdom could have accomplished this. For this, she was loved.

“Now go with my blessing, and my hopes. I look forward to your return, where we can all meet again without the need for such formalities. Of all things remember, stay together, and stay true. The journey to Honoria should give you ample time to find out about one another.” With that, the party stood up and filed out.

***

Within the next few minutes the party were at outside at the sky harbor, where the royal fleet stood idle and ready. Men and Alters worked frantically as the giant, alabaster airship Halberd hummed its song louder and louder.

The twelve could see a pair of individuals walk up to them, one a fattening man with a thick, heavy mustache, and a pimple on his chin. The other was a Fey, dashing and wild, his long, wild hair, falling over toned muscle. They Fey spoke up, moving his head slightly side to side as if showing off his horns that adorned his crown, both over two-feet-long, the pride of any Fey. “Hello my beauties! Welcome to the Halberd! I am Captain Eshrel Elahai, and this is my second, Gilemen.

Gilemen gave a curt nod.

“Now then, which of you striking young women is our dear security head?” His arms moved in great gestures, his cheerful voice unbecoming of a military man. “It must be you my dear, Captian Marina Theiss, am I correct?”

Bedecked in the black armor of the renowned Reavers, the elite tactical unit that had helped secure Fiorza’s reign ma her stand out almost as much as her green hair, tinted skin, and almost claw-like nails. “I am.”

“Excellent! I’ve never been wrong on these things before. Now let’s see, you in the glasses must be our Ambassador for war, Chenzion d’lo Casva.”

“I am, and it’s a pleasure to-“

“Ah, and you must be the “Remedy”. As my less-scrupulous soldiers have said, that they come at first for your treatment, but come back again for your beauty.” He turned around, as if realizing to name all of them would waste their time. “Please, come aboard. We already have breakfast ready for you all. We have hotcakes, fruit, selection from any animal you could imagine, whatever you could possibly want! So long as you’re under my care, you have nothing to worry about.”

With that, the party, once again their chance to speak squandered were led to a cable car, where they rode up in small cart one at a time, just out of earshot of one another, still frustratingly unable to speak to one another. The ride was smooth, traveling across and up 400 meters. Forty-five degrees was far steeper than those inexperienced in such things would have thought. After two minutes upon reaching the top they were each led individually across the polished deck through two large oak doors, the inside of which was a banquet hall, fit for a castle, not a warship.

One by one they took their seats, staring at the wondrous feast before them. By the time the Halberd began to lift, all twelve were seated and finally had the chance to speak. Everything was dimmed down as if it was evening, and soldiers stood at attention at the far end, dressed in their white, dress uniforms. The choice of food was split three times so that no one had to pass anything, everything ready for each group of four to have at will.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion looked over the rest of the party. He recognized Lady Olenna Jezal, and the personage of 'Remedy' was not unknown to him from his friends on the streets.

Chenzion, wearing his glasses and a formal robe bearing the ensignia both of House Casva and the Royal Academy, looked the part for an academic or diplomat. Truth be told, he was feeling a little uncomfortable with his pockets mostly empty of books and tools and was looking forward to equiping himself as he was accustomed to once he was able to return to his supplies. Still, he was thankful he had left them; besides making his outfit look more formal, it precluded the temptation of trying to figure out those mind-boggling devices in the imperial chamber!

After seated, feeling it not improper for him to start the discussion, he clears his throat and says, "Hello. As Captain Eshrel Elahai said, my name is Chenzion Falquier d'lo Casva, or just Chenzion; I imagine some informality would ease things if we are traveling to Honoria together. I hope my specialities in mechanics, and dabbling in other fields and politics, will help us in our journey."

"Lady Jezal, it is an honor to see you again. I believe I have heard of some of the rest of you, dear Remedy and Sir Baron, but I am sad to say I am rather ignorant."

[RJ45]

The castle, as wondrous as it was, as absolutely fascinating as every inch of the place was, happened to make her feel strange. Perhaps it was because of the fact that paintings, artworks and other simple decorations hadn't ever moved in her house. They were not lively, they remained the same... unless she happened to be taking a rather potent kind of medicine at that time. To see the Queen herself in person was absolutely... well, she had been stricken speechless. What was she to have said? Hello? At the end of it all, she's only grateful to have this opportunity. The chance to help forge an allegiance between human nations, to keep out that which clearly is not human... and, at the same time, a chance to secure her own future, to live as a noble lady with servants, fine dining, all the liquor she can handle, and a gigantic bed that would be softer than any cloud!

Alas, those thoughts wouldn't be the ones to help her now - she should be focusing on the task before her. Seated in a dining hall atop a flying ship - something she has seen, but never been upon - she constantly has to remind herself that this wasn't a dream. Everything before her was very real. One thing was bothering her - how they were tasked together, and had said so very little between each other in the rush. As the feast begins, she spots this as the perfect opportunity to break that.

"Hi. Seems we're going to be spending some time together, and I sure as hell don't want to spend it with strangers. How's everyone feeling today?" For a woman, she sounds rougher than most. That is, not afraid to say things how they are. Rather than having anything fancy, Remedy has settled for a glass of juice. Potent, strong, a good way to start the day. "Fine ship you got here. What kind of amazing things have you seen from all the way up here? Run into any angels?" she asks, wearing a small smile across her face. Joking. Chenzion has spoken. "Relaaaax. You'll get to know me in time." she had replied.

Without much delay, she began to help herself to some of the tastier bits on the table. This is how breakfast should be - not just whatever you find laying around the house. This is something that she could get very, very used to.

[Sinistral]

The royal palace was magnificent, every inch seemed to be finely crafted to awe the viewer. Which was it’s exact intention. Olenna had expected some kind of display similar to this, giving The Queen’s unorthodox group of ambassadors a parting taste of just how much power the Queen could command before sending them into foreign land. Still, the sheer scope of the palace impressed Olenna in spite of herself. The Queen’s words were fairly predictable, impressing upon them the importance of their mission, but the sight of the Queen in her armor gave them a kind of supernatural importance. She was happy to be dismissed, the vision of the Queen was quite unnerving, and she would need all her wits about her is was to complete her assignment. Now, she was seated on a flying ship with the eleven other ambassadors charged with moving a nation to war.

The dinner conversation was fairly quiet, until the young Lord Falquier spoke up. Olenna smiled at Chenzion’s introduction. “No, Lord Falquier-, I’m sorry, Chenzion, the honor is all mine. Though if I must call you by your first name, I must insist that you use mine.” She turned away from Chenzion to address the whole table. ”That goes all of you. We’re all equals here.”

She returned her attention back to Chenzion, ”I must admit, in my dabblings at science I have come across a few of your works. I quite enjoyed you’re your paper on the creation of Alters, a favorite subject of mine.” She looked around the table at the guests, before her black eyes settled on the Baron. “I’ve also read many of your books as well, Baron. Your account of the Battle of Blackblood was quite harrowing. At the risk of sounding foolish, I must say I’m very exited to meet you. I must agree with Chenzion though, at to not having any knowledge of the rest of you.” A lie. She had managed to get rudimentary information on each of them before they left. “I hope we can take this time to get to know each other better.”

Though she has a plate of delicious looking food in front of her, she only takes a few bites, leaving the majority of it untouched.

[dresdor]

Doctor Garret Copa said nothing through the entirety of the proceedings. He read his parchment with practiced precision, and only a small hint of surprise when the ink consumed itself. His mission was indeed his alone, and while he was always a soldier, the orders bothered him. Shouldn't he be protecting life instead of helping destroy it? Those were questions best served on his own time. For now his mission was important.

At the docks, he pondered their mission, tapping his cane on the boards of the dock. Through the introductions he was fairly silent, watching the various personaes and characters arrayed before him. That was truly more interesting and delicious than the meal, which he ate with the mechanical actions of a trained soldier. Chow was, as always, chow, though this was a decent meal, one his young wife would be envious of making...

Charlette would miss him dearly and he her during this mission. They had only finally wed after his injury because he was promised a simple teaching position with no chance of gruesome death under fire. The bridal bed had hardly been warmed before this mission was handed down. Still, she would tend their small house, and she would learn the valuable lessons of managing the finances while he was gone. With any luck the doctor would return to a little money saved by and a loving wife....

but that was elsewhere. The need for attention was in the present. He turned to his companions gathered and asked bluntly.

"As your doctor for this trip, I must ask that any maladies or injuries be made known to me. Also any strange allergies, afflictions, or anything you may feel is relevant for me to know. I am, at the Queen's demands, at your humble service." Though he is terse in speech he is clearly observing the whole place with a doctor's keen eye.

[Greystone]

In the palace, Marianna read her letter impassivly. It was what she had expected, nothing more. She had already had a briefing from the Colonel. The fire made her blink though, and then her lip curled in vague amusement. Very tidy.

When the party entered the Hall, the Reavers sat in a solid block at the end of the table. First was Marianna, who was the tallest of the group, and obviously commanded the complete respect of her peers. The next two, Ryan de Marshell and Mikhil Janus (a human and a shadow respectivly) took their seats next, and immediatly began eating, and murmering to each other. The last member was a cloudkin by the name of Claire Shimmersong. Her red hair, and small form made her stand out in the group. Occasionally she would laugh and poke fun at a comment the other two made- which invariably caused one or both to growl back (all in fun it seemed).

The entire squad wore personally fitted black armor. Marianna and Mikhil's armor was the strongest, made of steel plates molded to form. Claire and Ryan's armor appeared to be more leathers and chainmail. All wear black cloacks with the silver eye broach of the Reavers.

In response to the doctor, Marianna nods "My team and I are at the moment free of any physical maladeys"

She shot a reproving look at the team who seemed to have found the comment amusing and they shut up.

"I am Captain Theiss of the Reavers. My men and I will be providing security for you. That means I will be in charge of your well being. If we run into trouble- I assume command. I don't need any of you dying because you can't take orders under fire"

[Falconer]

As the Baron read his letter a smile crossed his face. It was times like these he truly felt he was accomplishing something. Something grand, and magnificent. Even as the ink was washed away, he delicately folded the parchment and placed it under his wide-brimmed hat, where he tended to keep things he valued. With a bow and a tip of his hat at the Queen, he left with the rest of the party.

--------

As the Baron boarded The Halberd, he could not help but stare, his green eyes bright with wonder. He had been on many such skyships, but they always amazed him. There were many reasons. Their size, their grandeur, the diligence of those who worked aboard them. But the primary reason was that, in his mind, the Baron had convinced himself that it really was truly impossible for such things to fly. The Baron had seen many impossible things in his time. And that was what made skyships all the more wondrous to him.

Once he had been herded along with the others into the banquet hall, he cleared his throat, gave a deep bow, removing his hat (it was only polite to remove one's hat in polite company, after all).

"Gentlemen, ladies. The Baron Pertinax, at your service."

His eyes were suddenly drawn to the banquet table.

"...anyone up for some champagne?"

[daelrog]

To Alice's jest the nearest soldier blushed slightly, his words stopped before they began as Gilemen entered. How the fattening toad f a man could get here so quickly when he was obviously still at the bottom when they were headed to breakfast was curious. "No angels up in the sky miss. Only bird and clouds." A man of no humor, or one that did not wish others to have it either?

"A little early for champagne I think young man." The wrinkled old man smiled his scalp covered by a simple brown hood. None of the party could see his eyes, it appeared as if he had them closed he squinted so hard, yet somehow he appeared able to see each person clearly. The air in Sebb's voice was friendly, in a way that only a man his age could sound. It was also the first time in eleven years and three months that anyone had ever referred to the Baron as young.

As the old man dawdled with his pork broth, the young woman sitting next to him graced the queries as to her identity. "I am Aurora LeAnguelle, handmaiden to the Queen." She appeared very comfortable in her skin, if not overly formal. "I... look forward to working with you all." She tensed slightly at the compliment and focused her attention back on her plate filled with unsalted rice and undressed spinach. A glass of non-iced water matched. She stole one more glance from her corner at the others before eating her properly balanced meal systematically.

The other shadow, the servant one kept to himself, his intent clear, with his eyes glancing back and forth between his own meal and Mikhil. Shadows were said to be able to communicate is subtle ways, but then again they also were supposed to steal children at night and devour them whole.

In case you all can't tell yet, this is a great start from everyone. Keep it up.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion smiled at the rest of the group, happy to see a mix of personalities and races, as they introduce themselves in different, colorful ways. As he starts on a plate, he began to say:

"Thank you, Lady Jez- um, Olenna." (Court politeness has not completely left his mind.)

With a smile and after taking a sip of juice, he turned to Remedy with sincere friendliness--how nice to see someone already being perhaps themselves or at least informal--and said, "Well, I'm feeling a little overwhelmed by all this, I must admit, but I'm feeling quite well. I believe I'd greatly enjoy discussing herbalism with you during our journey; not my expertise, but I've looked into the topic, and I've heard you are quite skilled in your profession."

Nodding to Marianna and her team in turn, he said, "Captain Theiss, I am grateful for the presence of you and your team. I have some training with sword and bow, and a small amount with the pistol, so I may of be use if we come into a fight. Military tactics have never been my expertise, though, so I offer you both my arm and my obedience should we come into such conditions."

"Gileman, if you and Captain Eshrel Elahai do not object, I'd like very much to see the engine room and discuss this ship if it is the one we are taking to Honoria." With a smile, he added, "I promise not to touch anything without your permission."

"Doctor, I have no present maladies or chronic problems. However, I'm very happy to know we have a skilled doctor among our numbers. Baron, it is an honor; my memory returns to me about some of your exploits. Aurora and... Sebb, is it?... I am glad to make your acquaintances."

Chenzion adds to the Shadow to whom he has not been introduced, "And to you, sir."

[RJ45]

Alice had decided moments before even noticing the breakfast that she would eat until it hurt. Moments like this had only appeared once every so often. Although, through some miraculous means, she was able to hold a few table manners. Not all of them, as true noble dining was more of an annoying table sport, and she would never want to play something like that while trying to eat. "Of course, we can discuss plants, roots, all those goods. Not like it'll do much good up here, unless they grow things in this airship... actually, it wouldn't surprise me. This thing's pretty damned incredible." She had taken notice of the Shadow, just giving it a look-over. Through her line of "work", she had the opportunity to know a few of them. They aren't human, but they're one of the few kinds that she's alright with. Everyone was volleying formalities back and forth, and Remedy was finding it rather... tiresome.

The doctor, Garret, had spoken up. He mentioned all sorts of things that she can manage on her own. "Don't worry about me, I think I can handle most of that. I'll call you if I'm missing an arm, leg, or head though" as she stuffed another pancake into her mouth. Yum! What's more, he didn't need to know about her own certain affliction. The one that had been bothering her throughout the morning. After breakfast, she most certainly will have to take care of it - but by then, she'll be out on the deck, watching the world from the eye of a bird while the wind blows by.

"You can have all the fighting you want. I won't have a part of it." she had replied to their ever-so-faithful "Captain Theiss." At first, she had found it annoying. Did she think that Alice was some sort of fat oaf who would run into the heart of battle to just get slaughtered? Did she think they were all so blissfully unaware of how quickly their lives could be ended?

... Giving a moment to reflect on that, Remedy managed to accept that, if those words influenced even one person to shut up and obey, and it saves their lives, it'll be worth it.

[daelrog]

As their food began to settle in, some of the party began to look around the dining hall. Marina, despite herself, could not help but notice that it was a tactical liability, to have such a room so conveniently accessible by the deck. This place should have been the armory, or a safe room, something that should a battle begin, could be used for more than stuffing one's belly.

Unlike the Queen's chamber, this place had real chandeliers, extravagant, and four layered. Paintings of the classics lined the walls, no doubt reprints, but impressive nonetheless. The trip was to last slightly less than five days. To some, it might have been the most luxurious five days to be had, or to others the most free.

Gilemen, though his expression did not change, his eyes seemed to change at Chenzion's request. It was unlikely a positive sign. "I'll ask the Captain later today, sir."

Aurora was the first to finish, somehow the soft spoken woman beating everyone else before most had finished half their plates. She sat politely without making a sound.

I'll give until sometime tomorrow afternoon to say what you want at the breakfast. Afterwards, everyone will be splitting up to do what they please around the ship

[RJ45]

When asked what Alice wanted for the next couple days for breakfast, she ended up listing things that aren't affiliated with breakfast. Not one for breakfast, but will take it at the opportunity. Ribs. Steak. Chicken. Ham. The list had went on with the odd requests, but in the end, they were just requests - requests that would more than likely not be fulfilled. Her hopes didn't get up.

With breakfast coming to an end, she had slipped out of the room and found somewhere cozy on the ship - somewhere that allowed her to look down on the scenery they were passing while remaining secluded. For just a moment. She reached into one of her many pouches, pulling free a small, metal box. A cigarette case. Opening it, she pulls one free, slides it into her mouth, and proceeds to light it. Putting the case away, she had a nice smoke, allowing all of her troubles to pass away with every bit of smoke that blew by. More or less, she picked a secluded place because she didn't want anyone giving her a rough time. The doctor would probably complain endlessly. The "security" would probably give her a rough time about 'the dangers of a fire on an airship'

But, in that moment, none of that mattered.

[daelrog]

With everyone finished, anywhere from mildly satisfied to stuff beyond delight, they found no orders to be given, no guards to lead them to the next destination. On board a warship made for royalty, they held free reign, t least for the time being.

Sebb stood up, his frail body looking like it could fall apart at any moment. "Excuse me my boy Chenzion, would you spare a few minutes to an old man out on the deck?" What did the old man want to know? Or perhaps he was itching to tell an old story to someone who might appreciate it.

Meanwhile, the two other servants seemed to be in a hurry to leave, not very servant-like. If they weren't their to serve the rest of the party's needs at such times like this, what were they even there for?

Even Gilemen now seemed absent, and the dining hall was empty save for two guards at watch.

A bit of fair warning, it will not be that long until things really get underway. However, I feel it is necessary and right to give you all the chance to have a little fun with your characters, have them do whatever they want for at least a little bit.

If you want to talk to Rajj or Aurora, you can do so by catching up to them. Other than that, imagine the Halberd being a mixture of a warship and a luxury cruise, if you want there to be a swimming pool, make a swimming pool, if you want to check out your quarters, go ahead.

If you are the kind of player that likes to have this kind of freedom, enjoy it while it lasts. If you prefer a more guided story, you'll be getting some pretty soon.

[Greystone]

Marinna waited until her men were done eating, and then gestured them over. Ryan and Mikhil quickly stopped their playful banter, and assumed the proper look of humility when dealing with a superior officer. Claire stretched before nodding.

Marinna looked around and said "Alright, for a warship this seems pretty opulent. I need you to get a better sense of how the ship is layed out. I'd ask the Captain, but frankly I'd trust it more from any of you. I need passageways, chokepoints, and important rooms"

She pointed to Claire "Go to the mid-decks, look interested"

Claire nodded "Got it" and sped off.

Next she turned to Marshell and Mikhil "You two, stay here for another twenty minutes, and have a couple drinks and act generally boisterous. Then 'get lost' deeper in the ship."

They nodded and retured to the table, calling loudly to a servent for some ale.

Marianna smirked a bit and went out on the deck. She covered her eyes against the sun, and leaned against the railing. She probably didn't need to send her squad on such a job- but it wouldn't hurt either. She relaxed, closing her eyes and letting her green skin absorb the sun, then she looked around the deck- to see if anyone else of interest was on it.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion excused himself from the rest of the group. To Sebb, he replies, "Certainty, sir."

As they walked to the deck, Chenzion looks over what he can of the craft. He'd read some stuff on airships and aeronautics, even written a few suggestions to the royal fleet and some private groups working on airships. If this mission were to get dangerous, he'd like to know the ins and outs of its systems in case he had to make any emergency repairs. ...not that the captain of the ship would probably care for that; Gilemen's look was not promising, but as a mechanic himself, Chenzion could understand reserve about letting another touch one's machine.

When they reached where Sebb wished to speak, Chenzion said, "This is all quite intriguing, and an interesting allotment of people. You are a servant of the Queen, correct?"

[daelrog]

"That I am young man. I have served the royal family all my life, serving tea." The old man's left eye opened slightly to get a better look at Chenzion. His eye was terribly blue, and he lost a little of his innocence as he spoke on. "Tell me, young man, what do you think about a war with Teth?"

Claire flitted about the interior of the ship, the soldiers and crewman she passed seemingly unconcerned with her movements. Overall the ship was not poorly made, in fact it had everything necessary for a warship Barracks, a dock, back up energy deposits, it was the quarters to guests that was troubling. All were put as conveniently near the dock as possible. If the Halberd was needed in a fight, it would do a sufficient job, but it was no flagship.

Marshell and Mikhil faired less, the minute they decided to get lost, Captain Elahai was there with his friendly smile, and his Fey demeanor. "Ah, so good to see you my two strapping young Reavers. Come with me." He began to walk deeper into the ship.

The wind was blowing, sending Alice's hair up in a flurry in short spurts. None of the crew bothered her, none of the other party either. Sometimes being surrounded by action and activity, by potential friends did one trulyfeel alone.


Fun Fact of the Day
Races in Honoria
Unlike Avendell that has a good mixture of the five predominant races in the area, Honoria is very much a human-only empire. There are some Cloudkin towns that are left alone, but the Fey in the area all stick to the widlernesses, and the Shadow aren't present. Only the Alters have the same kind of numbers that exist in Avendell, but in general, they have less rights than in Anvendell, hence the rebellion.

[RJ45]

With that task done with, Remedy had flicked the end of the cigarette off the ship, to plummet onto the ground far, far below. It was an odd feeling to do something like that. She watched it for as long as she could see it fall, which wasn't far for something as small as it was. However, the group had barely became acquainted. It made her feel... odd. She knew what they did. Fabulous. At the end of the day, that didn't mean anything.

With that in mind, she decided to correct the problem. At least a little bit. Revealing herself from her hidden little spot, she proceeded back up to the deck, wandering about a bit. Great. They'd all left to their own affairs. That didn't mean she was about to give up. Exploring about, she had run into a familiar Alter. 'Captain Theiss' - she already had her doubts about how this conversation would end, but... well, she had addressed everyone. Once.

Casually, she walked up to her. "How's life?" she asked her. "It sure is beautiful up here, wouldn't you agree?" The goal here wasn't to pester the 'security' about her job, it was to meet the person behind the job. "Have anything interesting you want to do when we get there? I wouldn't mind getting a taste of some of the specialties they have over there. Perhaps play some cards with some more distant associates of mine."

[Greystone]

Theiss watched as Remedy walked up, she smiled and shrugged " Beautiful enough to paint a picture of."

"As to when we get there? I... might take a look on any local libraries." She shrugs again "But the mission comes first and all that"

Down Below

Mikhil and Ryan glance at each other and go to follow "Uh, where are we going sir" Ryan slurred his words slightly to maintain the ruse they had been ordered to use.

[RJ45]

Hmm. As expected, she had brought up the mission. Duty-bound. "Books are a good time-killer." Not that she particularly enjoyed reading. She only did it when she had to. "What's your favorite genre, then?"

Remedy leans over the balcony, looking down on the world. She's right. It really was a breathtaking sight. She should have brought something to draw with, even though it would have turned out pretty bad.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion intended to give Sebb a friendly smile and look as he pondered the question, but some caution or suspicion probably showed through. Surely tea was not all this man dealt in. At times like these he wished he had paid more attention to Father and Mother's political advice.

After clearing his throat to give himself another moment, he replied, "A war with Teth... I've wondered a lot about the... Fiends." He inwardly cursed himself for pausing before the saying the word; 'Earth-born' came too readily to his mind to be politically safe. Well, no doubt the Queen already knew or would find out if she wanted to, so why hide things from this fellow?

"I know, like most of nobles and I'm sure you as well, that a lot of what is said about the Earth-born is propaganda. That they have some sort of collective mind or other ant-like qualities is disturbing, but so are some traits of Shadows and we get along well enough with them. I understand how these islands, and thus a potential war, can be beneficial to Avendell. I expect war'll come; it sounds like Teth has not left Honoria alone and I have an idea that they won't leave us alone if we try to take those islands."

After pausing a moment and looking at the old man's eyes for friendliness or ire, Chenzion added, "And what is your opinion, kind sir?"

[Greystone]

"Old history mostly, and some specilized texts" she replied vaguely "You don't strike me as much of a reader though"

A slight smile fleets across her face "What is you're preferred way of relaxation?"

[daelrog]

Eshrell waved the question off casually with the motion of a hand. He outranked them, thus had no need to answer the question.

Captain Elahai led the two Revers deep into the ship, until the came to what felt like the core of it. Opening the door, he beckoned the two in. It was a dark room, one that held a glittering green hologram in the middle. It was a map of the ship.

"It appears that we share a mutual issue of trust. You may not have known this, but the guards guarding your breakfast were Alters, Alters with damned good hearing." He sat in a chair, one that seemed right for the extravagant and charming lord of the ship. "To be honest, most of the crew isn't keen on what you people are doing. As by now you've noticed, this is a courier ship, not a warship. The big guns work, but they're there to scare off lone bandits, not to take on Teth Galleons."

He leaned in a bit, and his voice was much cooler, much more serious. "However, like you two I'm duty bound, and I wil see you all safe to the Honorian King." He stood up, and walked past the two warriors. "Look at whatever you need on the map. It's all there." He was almost out the door when he stopped. "Oh, and tell that gorgeous Captain of yours to wear something more feminine while she's on my ship. It would do wonders for crew moral."

Neither could tell if he was joking or not.

***

Sebb smiled, pleasantly, and his eye hid back behind his wrinkled eyelid. "Oh, I don't concern myself with such things. Bad for the heart you know, the weight of the world. I simply do what my Queen tells me." He looked over the edge, deep down into the thick forests below. "You seem to be a fine young man, you should talk to one of the young ladies on board. Act your age, I always say."

Sebb began to hum an old man's hum and tottered away.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion gave old Sebb a questioning look, but smiled at the fellow. After they parted, he stood there for a minute, thinking. 'Acting his own age, he is. Did he mean anything particular about talking to the girls, maybe that handmaiden of the Queen... well, politics were never my preferred passtime. I don't know why the Queen thought I'd be a good diplomat, be better fitted in the labs working on weapons.'

Shaking himself out of his melancholic thought, he walked along the deck, admiring the beauty of the scenes below. Of course, he had seen such many times in the past, so he didn't quite feel the awe he felt such deserved. And that conversation was on his mind; had he said too much? At least it wasn't Olenna; he didn't know much about her, but rumors of her statecraft made him nervous.

'Act his age', huh? Well, he'd never really had much chance for that.

Thinking about heading to his room to get a book, he saw Remedy and Marinna chatting on another part of the deck. More his crowd. Smiling, he approached them and, at a few yards distance, said, "Hi. Do you mind if I join your conversation?"

[RJ45]

"Eh. I don't like books. I can't interact with them. The next page will stay the same, no matter what happens. That's just me, though." She reached her arms out, stretching. "That doesn't mean I don't read, that just means that I only read specific things about that which would be otherwise very difficult to know about. Specific plants, growing methods..." She shrugged.

Chenzion appeared, and... 'asked' to join the conversation. Remedy seemed almost a little offended by that. "It's not like we're discussing secrets that'll ruin everything, join in!" She even motioned an arm invitingly. They'd be together for more than just this ride.

"Mine? I'd rather go fishing. Set your line, relax, maybe even do some of that 'reading' and wait until you feel a tug on the line. Strange, I know, but I like it." So she had neglected telling them that there were a couple ways to... 'enhance' that experience. They didn't need to know about that.

[Sinistral]

Olenna left the table slightly later then her companions, taking the opportunity to observe them, particularly the Queen's maid. Where was she in such a big hurry to be of to? She decided that was a question best left for later. She would have few enough chances to relax as it is, and virtually none when they reached their destination. Why not take one day of vacation before entering the treacherous lands of international espionage?

She left the table, taking a leisurely stroll around the edge of the airship. As a first time flyer, she found the view spectacular. Her mission still ate at her, however, keeping her from fully enjoying herself. She sighed. So much for vacation. Though she was still far from Honoria, there was still much she could do. Like getting to know her fellow ambassadors. She had some basic information, but she needed much more. Like how they would react under pressure, and how far she could trust them, and why exactly they had been chosen for this mission. And she wouldn't get that information admiring the scenery.

Fortuna, she came across three of the other ambassadors engaged in conversation. The soldier, the scholar, and the Remedy. She decided it was time to introduce herself. "Hello. I hope you young people don't mind me intruding on your conversation, but I feel that if we are going to be working together we should get to know each other."

[JeenLeen]

'Well, it seems no offense was given', he thought as he joined the two. He hadn't really gleamed what the topic in question was -- hobbies? -- but decided to just try and see if he'd guessed rightly.

"I remember some nice fishes trips when I was younger, though it's been a while. Also strange, I imagine, but I usually enjoy tinkering in the lab when I have a good stretch of time," Chenzion offered. "Most people didn't see the fun in connecting strands of thought or experimenting with how these two things interact instead of those, but, all in all, it's not too different from casting a line and seeing what comes up, just in ideas instead of water."

After he finished speaking, he heard Lady Jezal, that is, Olenna speaking. First Sebb and now her; maybe he should have sought that Shadow servant to converse with. Giving Olenna a polite smile, nod, and a "Hello, Olenna," he decided to let the other ladies respond more fully to her request.

[daelrog]

Fun Fact of the Day

The Wildernesses

roughly 2/3 of the landscape on the eastern continent is impossible to civilize. Swamplands, barren mountains, and other stranger places touched by the gods prevent a lot of expansion. The Sraiks Empire has dealt with this by going below. Then again, some believe they were troglodytes to begin with. Avendell has built up, is cities towering high into the sky. Honoria has yet to be confined due to lack of space as it has the plurality of land.

Some renowned explorers as well as packs of Fey can traverse the Wildernsses, but few urban dwellers would ever dare. It is not the predators that are the scariest part, but the diseases, parasitic insects, and poisonous flora that claims most lives.

(The Eastern Continent [though much is still unknown] seems to suffer more from the fact that it is mostly a barren wasteland. it is a sad mirror image that one continent is teeming with too much dangerous life while the other has very little.)

[Greystone]

Mikhil and Ryan had the decency to look sheepish "Sorry sir" Ryan said "I guess we'll...uh... get back to our duties then"

They spun around and headed to go up decks. The Captain can hear their conversation as they fade into the distance.

"Nice work moron"

"What me? You humans are all the same, just blaming the shadows for everything"

"Well, if you could move with anything that could be regarded as stealth yo..."

Top Deck

Marianna raised an eybrow, as her one on one coversation suddenly became a lot more crowded.

She had shrugged to the question to let themselves into the conversation- she didn't know you had to do that frankly. Then Olenna made her comment and she cleared her throat "Well, I don't know what you'd want to know about me"

[dresdor]

The Doctor quickly unpacked his gear, and headed for the deck. Heading for the aft portions with his writing equipment, and several medical reports, he settled in with his back against the rail, staring out accross the ship. Taking pen to paper, he starts writing out notes. Though he was on leave from the University, his academic pursuits were still expected, and he hoped to have plenty of time on this trip to compile data, and continue work on his medical reports.

...then there was his creative side projects, but those could wait. This was a military sanctioned mission, and he must maintain some level of discipline. After all he had to get some work done, as sooner or later someone would interrupt him, or sustain some injury and his skills would be needed. It was an inevitability in his business, especially when there was an important mission involved.

[JeenLeen]

Realizing some tension had arisen, Jenounces tries to alleviate things.

"Well, Olenna, I just joined this conversation myself. But, as far as I can tell, Remedy and the Captain were discussing pastimes." With a smile to the two, he added, "Please correct me if I'm wrong," then continued, "You probably know that I enjoy working in the lab and theories, as I was just telling them. I admit, if time permits, I'd enjoy talking to some of the scientists or philosophers in Honoria."

[RJ45]

Remedy looked to Chenzion. She gave consideration to those words, before speaking.

"You should be careful. That's a dangerous path you're walking. Sure, it's nice to have a profession that is also a hobby - but always hope that your work doesn't destroy your hobby, otherwise you'll wake up and notice that you hate your theories, you hate your ideas, and you hate your own creations."

She leaned against a nearby wall while having the discussion.

"I think fishing is nice. I'm not doing it more than two days in a row, though."

Something bothered her about this man. Chenzion. It's as if he's hiding something. Maybe it's just an odd feeling. Only time would tell if she were right or wrong on this initial appraisal.

[daelrog]

I lied in the OOC! One more post because I'm always watching over this thread... always. Seriously though, just finished my last essay of college. Now I need to take care of all the loose ends before the ceremony.

Also, you're characters are all very paranoid. Not the worst trait to have in this game though.

Fun Fact of the Day
The Reavers

The Reavers are the special ops of Avendell. Where they lack in raw military might as other institutions such as the Avendell Royal Guard, the Navy, or the Marine Divisions, they make up for in their niche: quick, fast, individual operations. They were chief among Fiorza's enforcers during the years of civil war and strife, taking apart traitors and usurpers one by one.

There are roughly a couple hundred Reavers, some forming small teams, others in larger strike forces. Each inidividual is ranked at least at the Lieutenant level as each has a status of officer.

Their leader, Colonel Klaust is considered to be one of three figures that were responsible for Fiorza's triumph (other than Fiorza herself) and has received much leniency in his actions as opposed to other factions. For this, it was not questioned when he asked for Captain Theiss to be apart of the mission.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion paused, an initial mixture of offense and enjoyment on his face, then smiled and said, "Well, I guess that's true, Remedy. If I think about when I'm not working at the labs or studying... well, I do actually enjoy talking with friends about whatever is on their mind. It's something hard to list as an activity, but something I enjoy."

With a laugh, he added, "I admit I rather appreciate your brash criticism. It's something one rarely sees at court, and I rather appreciate the less formal modes of speech, even if it's hard to get away from them on a errand such as this."

[RJ45]

"I hate formalities. I think if you want to tell someone something, you should tell them directly, rather than painting over it. It really pisses me off when I have to decipher what someone is trying to say. Better enjoy the freedom while it lasts, since our job is going to take us right into the heart of it all. Won't be able to say a single thing about how you really feel until we're out of their company."

[JeenLeen]

Smiling, Chenzion said, "True, true. It's going to be sadly difficult once we reach Honoria. Well, I appreciate it, at least." Turning to the other two, Chenzion said, "How do you two feel about formality and its requirements on speaking? Olenna, I know you've dealt with it more than I, and I imagine it's not far even from a soldier, Marianna."

[Sinistral]

"Oh, I quite agree that formalities, and the precise way of speaking so as not to offend anybody when speaking can be quite infuriating. I speak from experience, it really pisses me of too." She laughed, but their was more then a tinge of bitterness to it. Some old wounds still have their sting. "They are, however, a necessary evil. Especially where we're heading. They can be a useful tool, and should not be discarded because we find them distasteful. I speak from experience here, too."

[JeenLeen]

Jenounces smiled kindly as the old lady spoke. Her words were with the finesse of court, but he appreciated their meaning. Perhaps she wasn't as bad as he had feared.

Nodding and offering only a simple, "True," he waited for the others' replies, not wishing to dominate the discussion.

[RJ45]

She started to like this older lady. Immediately. She didn't get a good impression at first, but showing a touch of roughness opened up to Remedy's good side. At least she would claim so this early into their journey. "Well, don't 'speak from experience', tell us some stories, grandma!" She didn't say it in a bitter, hateful way. More or less, this is the age-old tradition of assigning people that she affiliated with nicknames that never seemed to go away and would chase the older lady until the end of time. Folding her arms beneath her breasts, she awaited story time, all the while smiling.

[JeenLeen]

Jenounces smiled at Remedy's request, looking expectantly toward Olenna. Perhaps things would be better than he thought.

[daelrog]

As per request to move forward. If you want to draw back on this ocnversation, or get more inovlved in it, there can always be flashbacks or OOC discussions

The day passed without so much as a wind to slow them down. Though some of the party interacted and spoke, they had yet to win each other's trust, and they knew no more about one another than before the day had began. The sun set, the stars began to emerge, and a courier ship began to come alive.

Crew members began to sing and play instruments, they danced around a bfire lit in the center of the deck. Even Gilemen was in the thick of it, the smell of brandy and sweat emanating from the first mate a good hundred feet.

To some, it may have been a surprise to see military personnel act in such a manner, much like the common folk. To others, such behavior was alien altogether.

Eshrel, strangely sober despite his flamoyant nature approached Chenzion, who had been off to one side, finishing off a slice of melon he had taken from dinner. "Gilemen tells me you would like to see the engine room. If you wouldn't mind missing a few minutes of the party, I can give you the tour." He was no less friendly than he had been, but he was much more calm, and respectable. He was now acting his station.

The rest of the entourage were beckoned by the crew to take part in the festiivites. Sing along. Dance with me. Care for a game of cards. These chosen few of Avendell had found themselves in a street market atmosphere where everyone was pulling and coercing for their time, bragging rights to their fellow crew mates.

[RJ45]

Remedy had fun with the festivities. She spent quite a while around the snack table, played several rounds of cards, and even danced for about five minutes. However, there is an activity she invented at that point in time: grabbing some snacks, grabbing a drink, and having a seat far away from the rest, watching on. Every now and then, she would disappear entirely for a smoke - something bothered her about all of this. Why was this making her so uncomfortable?

Despite her attempts to know the others, she couldn't find a single thing about them that was particularly shocking. It made her uncomfortable. This would mean that she would be investigating their actions more than their words. This would be the only way to know if she's dealing with the dark or dealing with the light.

"No matter which they are, it's all in the favor of humans. Of us. I don't think it matters what they're like, so long as the Teth are the ones in their graves by the end of the day." She muttered to herself as she stood out, getting some fresh air and viewing over that flying dock. Beautiful.

[daelrog]

It was not a few more seconds than she had spoken the words that someone else sat down to join her. The handmaiden Aurora knelt beside her, taking a view of below the dock the tree tips that glowed brillinat blue, the shuffling of wind and the nocturnal creatures below causing them to swy to and fro.

"Hello... Alice. How are you this evening." She seemed to be straining herself as she spoke. Though she was looking at the same scene below as Remedy, her gaze was obviously on the girl herself.

[RJ45]

The handmaiden to the Queen. Remedy didn't know immediately to start putting her formal visage on, or to remain relaxed - since they were alone, she figured remaining relaxed couldn't hurt. "Hi. You know, the evening has been wonderful. Festivities, dancing, everything someone could ask for. But now that I'm away from it all, I'm a bit worried." Her eyes, up to that point, had been analyzing the handmaiden a bit closer. However, she then broke her gaze to look over the side of the ship, smirking, gesturing towards them. "Look at these beautiful lands. Human lands. As it should be. You know, it just makes me uncomfortable. Things are only going to get more difficult as we go, and I'm really hoping that everything moves how it should. That is, we're a HUMAN country, they're a HUMAN country, there should be no question behind us working together."

She took a long drag off of her cigarette, thinking on that. "Of course, it's never that simple." She looked back to the handmaiden. "I guess I shouldn't complain. What about you? What're you feeling?"

[daelrog]

"What am I feeling?" She almost sounded sad as she said the words, as if Remedy wasn't even there. "It doesn't really matter how I feel does it? I am an extension of the Queen. What my Lady orders, I enact." She looked over to Alice, with a playful demeanor, one that betrayed her. "You know, this is the first time I've been away from the castle since I can remember. Tell me about what it's like to live on the outside, how it feels to do whatever you want, whenever you want."

[RJ45]

The words Alice heard were upsetting to hear. As if they were the words of a caged animal. Alice's feelings changed. She was uncomfortable. She even had to be careful with her word choice to come. "Feels dangerous. You can make mistakes. You can suffer because of them. You can end up all sorts of places you'd rather not be. At the same time, that danger is part of the game. Game of life. Good things happen with those risks as well; you make friends you would have never thought and do new, exciting things all of the time."

Alice tilted her head as she looked at the handmaiden, thinking about her particular situation. "That's truly terrible. You weren't given life so you could sit around doing things that someone tells you to do. That's not living; where's the choice in that? I mean... you're so far away from the castle, this is your opportunity to do whatever it is that you've always wanted to do. You. As a person." Alice tried to coax her into doing something. Anything.

"So, what are you going to do?"

[JeenLeen]

Having had but a little bit and eat and rather absorbed in his head thinking about the conversations earlier, Chenzion was startled and rather pleased when the fey captain approached him. A smile quickly came to his face and his worries quickly fled when he heard the Eshrel's words.

With a deferential nod, as due a captain offering such, Chenzion replied, "Yes, I would like that very much."

As they walked away from the party, Chenzion turned back for a glance then faced forward and said, "Does the crew usually have a party like this in the evening? I imagine it is somewhat because of new guests, but it seems quite a jovial setting. Both due to the ship itself and the crew, this vessel appears a nice place to work and live."

[daelrog]

Aurora tilted her head, and for a brief moment Alice saw blankness in the woman's perfectly shimmering eyes. "I don't know. I suppose I will do whatever I must." She turned her head, smiling much more humany now, "So... what do the commoners do for fun?" She did not mean to use the word 'commoner' so casually, but who was one like her to know any better?

At first the Captain said nothing as they wandered away from the revelry and lights. By the time he did reply, it took Chenzion a moment to register what it was Eshrel was replying to.

"No, not usually, but more often than you would think."

As they walked Chenzion began to remind himself of how dangerous a lone Fey could be. Captain Elahai was almost a head taller than Chenzion and with away sway of his shoulders, Chenzion could make out several toned,lean muscules, some of which were unique to the species.

The Cpatian's vocie peirced the air again, each time he spoke drifting further and further away from the jolly, goofy man he had met just this morning, and closer to the competent, level-headed Captain of a warship. Somehow this did not bring comfort to the ambassador. "Do you know why they are celebrating?"

Chenzion admitted he did not.

"The crew is aware of your mission. Should you succeed, this ship, along with the rest of Her navy will o to war. They are celebrating now because soon they may not be able to." His words were formal, and unjudging. This only made it worse. "Each man is bound by his own set of rules, some which are born into their being, others which are forced upon them. We Fey don't care for the latter, hence why so few of us tread the urban jungles." He turned his head over, his silky hair effortlessly moving aside for his eyes to clearly see into Chenzion's. "You have nothing to fear from me boy. I will see to it that you make it to your destination. However," he turned away from the young intellectual, "please understand that I do not do so eagerly. You may be the death of us all."

The two finally reached the far end of the deck where they stood on an elevator. With a soft hum it began descending down to the engine room, the huming growing louder. It also felt as if everything was starting to shake slightly.

@everyone: Feel free to post. Like I said OOC, I may not be able to respond consistently until I get my new computer. I'd like to get word to make sure that some of you are still here who haven't been posting for awhile (which is all right, not much has happened... yet). Have some fun with your character, and see if you can't find out whether your character can find a new alcholoic beverage to their taste, a good-looking crewman to eye, or some sort of party trick to show the crew of the Halberd.

[RJ45]

Commoner. Commoner, they were called. Alice wasn't particularly disgusted by that; this woman had just admitted not more than a moment ago that she were nothing but a tool of the queen. "Dancing. Building. Raising a family. Enjoying their own hobbies - weaving, crafting, cooking - these things aren't always professions, and even if you're not particularly good at them, you can still enjoy doing them. These are just some of the things available." Alice looked over her attire, pockets and everything else for more things to include. "Fashion. Conversation. There's always drinking, smoking and other drugs, but that's for some and not for others."

The overtone of this handmaiden had constantly made Alice uncomfortable. "Why be so important to a castle if you don't enjoy it? It sounds like you'd be happier to live like simple people, if only for a while. If it's going to make you happy, you should do it."

[JeenLeen]

As Chenzion and the fey went down the elevator shaft, the mechanical humming was at first the only sound. Chenzion tried to work out his thoughts and feelings about the war. Yes, there would be death, but also much potential good...

After a few moments of silence, Chenzion said, trying to sound formal as the captain had, "I am in service to the Queen much as this ship is. I admit I go more eagerly than some, but that is my chosen binding to my family. ...may I ask, Captain, why you chose to travel the urban jungles and these skies?"

[daelrog]

At first Aurora LeAnguelle looked horrified at what Remedy wa saying. Then, a small crack came from her mouth. Her laughter was sweet and rich, whether born into her, and a reason of her position, or something that wasresutl of it was uncertain. "Oh please Alice, we both know that once a handmaiden takes service to the monarch, it is for life" Tears began coming from her eyes as she almost toppled over. "You have a wondrous humor my dear."

She just didn't understand.


Meanwhile, as the engine came to iew, Chenzion was split between the sigt of the great, twin-enigines, each the size of a house, as well as the Captain's reply. "That is a simple one to answer my good man. It is in my heart. The urban happenings are cause or much humor, and the skies... well even the fairest doe will have to put forth an effort to give me more pleasure than the wind, and the clouds, and thestars just that much closer." He put a reassuring hand on Chenzion's soldier. "Don't concern yourself on my wrods too much Ambassador, for I am as protective a Captain as any, and I felt obliged to at least offer a few words."

Chenzion saw in the Fey's eyes the calm, dangerous warrior receed once again to the depths of the thing's heart, replaced by its more loveable nature.

"Now, mind you I'm not much an engineer myself, but I haveread up on these girls. I believe you yourself have done some reseach on the engines of warships and how to make them more efficient."

[RJ45]

Something about those words - about this Aurora LeAnguelle had struck a nerve in Alice. A sensitive nerve. 'Humor? Is this funny? When did I become a clown?' she thought to herself. Here they were but mere moments ago, after having a discussion on how to get her to live her life outside of being the Queen's pet... and now the 'patient' she was trying to cure was found trying to resist falling over from laughter. This is when Alice realized something she hadn't before - the handmaiden wasn't human. She was a zombie. A creature of necromancy. In that moment, Alice stood.

"I wonder if you became a handmaiden before human."

With that said, she turned around and left the area. Her smoke break was over. More importantly, she needed to get away before she let some anger set in. Higher nobles always had bothered her in this sense - the sense that they sit about their lavish homes passing judgment on the lives of others, all without having truly lived a day of their own lives. As she made her escape, she mutters thoughts to herself. She mumbles profanity quiet enough for only her to hear. Between the festivities and the ambassadors managing their own affairs, Remedy decided that it would be best to check up on her own supplies.

One crate of "belongings" brought for the trip. What they had thought they were taking aboard their flying vessel was of absolutely no importance - it was the precious cargo within.

[JeenLeen]

An excited look and wide smile came to Chenzion's face as he heard the captain's words. Now this he had not expected!

Stuttering a bit due to this unexpected surprise, Chenzion said, "Y-yes, of course. While the 'war' part of warships hasn't been my specialty, engines and such that have more versatile use are."

Walking closer to the two engines, Chenzion looks over them, recognizing the parts and design. Good methodology, good workmanship, all. Probably from that House's manufracturing branch; they did have a good number of the fleet's contracts. Heh; House Casva would change that soon enough.

After a few minutes examination and probably a bit more soft talking to himself than he was aware, he turned to the Captain and said, "These are rather grand! Not that I'd expect any less from a ship in the fleet; the Queen really has spared little expense in this mission. Hmm... Captain, I do have a few small ideas that might increase efficiency or power output of the engines. Of course, almost all can't be done in flight, but I might be able to look at some of the safer sections and see if I can make a small revision or two, or just make everything is finely tuned... well, probably someone did that before you took off, but no harm in looking twice."

He hadn't expected this level of fun, especially after Gileman's look at dinner. Wow!

[daelrog]

The night seemed to last forever to some such as Chenzion of House Casva who studied the engines, rattling off a stream of numbers to a mildly impressed, mildly board Fey. For others, such as Remedy, the night went by in a blur, the conversation with the dear little maiden washed away by amber forgetting-juice.

For the Baron, the night was much like any other, finding himself in drinking ocntests with would-be conquerers of the legendary Baron.

For Olenna it was naught but practice, watching the puppets' secrets revealed to her as if they had handed her a signed letter. Too bad none of the crew were worth the time.

For Doctor Copa, it was a fun time, save that for a young couple's embrace, thoughts to his newly wed wife drifting his heart away from the task at hand, to a place that was before and after where he sat.

And for Captain Theiss, it was a waste. Her security team were drunk, especially Claire, and the whole scene seemed to beg for an attack. The attack did not come though, and she was left feeling the righteous outsider, the one among the masses who was doing her duty.



It would be their last moments of peace.

Dun, dun, duh!

I've been able to be on this site more than I had originally thought, so that's a good thing. I've sent a PM to Greystone, dresdor, Sinistral, and falconer to make sure they're stil lwith us, and that the action is about to begin. After all, we'll need everyone in just a moment.

By Monday, responses or not, I'll post up a bit of fun for you all.

[JeenLeen]

Getting to bed late (or early morning, depending on how one looks at it), Chenzioni looked over his equipment. He had brought enough tools to do some minor things if the Captain let him. Fascinating engines! Unlikely he'd have time once we dock for him to really look over them, but the concept had him rather excited, even if he knew it wouldn't likely manifest.

At least if there is war coming, his ideas might help the fleet.

Chenzion set out his alchemically-treated garments, deciding to wear those for the rest of the trip until a formal meeting with Honoria. Whether working on something or... well... some people might dislike this mission and not feel the loyalty the Eshrel feels to the Crown... it's good to be prepared. A satchel-backpack could hold the equipment and notes he'd want to keep on hand.

Rather tired, he retired for the evening.

[daelrog]

So I said Monday, but I forgot that the library is closed Memorial Day. Got a response from Greystone and Sinistral, we'll see if Dresdor and Flaconer pop up again. FedEx says I'll be getting my new computer on Thursday.

Without further ado...

The sirens blared, an awful, high-pitched wailing. Booze and revelry still clung close to the party's faces, save for one. The head of security, Captain Marina Theiss already knew something was terribly wrong.

As if already sensing the questions being asked by each member of the party, Eshrin's voice wrung out through the intercomm. "Two Teth ships approaching from due north, Spear-class." The Fey paused, the silence adding worry to the entire crew. "Get the ambassadors to the bridge immediately... it's Maurzhul."



Fun Fact of the Day

Mauzhul: A figure known quite well in the military world (so anyone with military background should know of him, others probably not). A supposedly ruthless Beserker Commander of Teth, he has proven more the match for any of the opponents he has faced from Dexden, Avendell, and even Sraiks. His most famous feat was nt for a victory, but an actual defeat. His ground legion was outnumbered fifty to one by a war-party from the nation of Geshrell, an Earth-Born controlled island southwest of Sraiks. Though Maurzhul had to give up the small island chain that was in dispute, over four-fifths of Geshrell's forces were destroyed, a battle that would eventually lead to their defeat two years later.

He is also known to hold contempt for humans.

[RJ45]

Remedy was in bed. She had woke up about two times already, putting her head down and going back to bed time and time again. She was dreaming that she were a bird - being on the ship had given some inspiration. Inside her dream, she was flapping her wings and soaring across the human continents - then, out of nowhere, another bird appeared and screeched loudly at her, over and over again. Her wing transformed into a mace, to which she crushed that bird - but the howling remained.

"Two Teth ships approaching from due north..." she heard, coinciding with her stirring and waking up in the living realm. In a sleepy daze, she just collapsed on her pillow and figured that her dreams are just wild beyond comparison.

A few seconds into relaxing back into the bed, her eyes had shot open as she wrestled her way out of bed, practically throwing the blanket off the bed. If it weren't for the sirens, the entire ship would have heard her barking things that should never be repeated; things that shouldn't come from the mouth of a lady. As she leaped into her clothes and bursted from the door, she sprinted towards the bridge.

In the moment, Remedy didn't know what she was feeling or thinking. Those things take a bit of waking up to do. All she knew was one thing: someone, or something, was going to die. Killing the Teth? Great. Killing someone who triggered a false alarm? Great. Out of curses to yell, she resorted to grumbling things about the morning as she set her goal to getting to that bridge.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion bolted awake and quickly began putting on the clothes he had set out before retiring. Pistol loose in its holster and sword on his hip, he finished fastening the custom-made garment as the captain's voice began to come over the inter-com.

With the omnious addition, Chenzion flung his satchel across his back and headed for the bridge, sword in hand.

"Mauzhul," he mumbled to himself, not completely sure if awake or not. It sounded vaguely familiar. With a mild curse, he wished he had paid more attention to international politics.

[Sinistral]

Olenna was reading in her room when she heard the alarm. Two Teth ships were approaching, led by the famed Maurzhul. The implications of this ran through her mind. Someone had sold them out. Their was little chance that Teth would just happen across them so soon, and certainly not by one of their most famous generals. Coincidences like that just didn't happen. Their had to be a traitor somewhere in the Queen's ranks, maybe on this very ship.

She wasted no time in dressing herself, concealing her twin pistols in hidden pockets. A futile gesture; if she was going to get the chance to use them odds are they would all be dead soon anyway. Their best chance would be a diplomatic solution, and she would be their best, possibly only, chance at anything not resembling a slaughter on a massive scale. She opened the cabin door and walked swiftly to the bridge.

On the way the, she began to recall all the information she had on Maurzhul. He had a record of being a great warrior and general, leading his soldiers to victory against overwhelming odds. Like all great generals, he would have the complete and utter loyalty of his men, and they would gladly die for him. Unfortunately, she doubted the crew of this ship would extend her and her colleagues the same courtesy. A straight up fight was unlikely to favor them. It all depended on how much he knew about their mission. If he knew why they were going to Honoria then they were sunk; their best advantage was Teth’s unwillingness to start and all out war with Avendell, am advantage that vanished if Avendell was planning a war anyway, just with reinforcements form Honoria. She knew one other minor fact about the illustrious general Maurzhul; he had a distaste for humans. Small perhaps, but even the most minor of facts could help give an advantage.

As she walked to the bridge, she couldn’t help laughing that merely a few hours ago she had been dieing for something more interesting to do then observe a bunch of drunken fools. The Gods loved their cruel, little jokes.

[daelrog]

By the time everyone made their way to the bridge, or were escorted, a long, long eight minutes had past. By the time Sebb finally walked in, leaning heavily upon his crutch, the chanting had already begun.

"MAURZHUL! MAURZHUL! MAURZHUL!"

Captain Elahai, with the wave of a hand shut the bridge to the outside, thin platic sheet covering it up, snuffingo ut the noise being broadcast by the Teth warships, still a ways away from firing range.

He looked at the crew, fear and duty splayed across his face in an uneven, awkward sum. He nervously scrtached his horns. "Right, I'll be brief. We have no chance against one of the ships, let alone two, let alone being run by that thrice damned Commander of theirs. His eyes ran over all twelve of these people, these people that had put the life of his whole crew in jeopardy. "As you may know, Avendell's warships are not generally built for speed." He paused a moment to let that last bit sink in. "However, this is not a wraship, its a courier, and we may be able to outrun them. I'm leaving the choice up to you lot, as you all seem to be what's important. Take a couple of the smaller ships and get out of here, try to outrun them south into Sraiks, try to outrun them southeast and hope they don't catch us..." He trailed off, trying to think of other possibilities. He turned his back to them and stared straight ahead into an endless blue sky, taking them wheel.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion quickly ran through what he knew of Avendell couriers and small transport ships, scenarios and statistics blazing through his mind. It might work, but... the chances were uncertain.

"I could pilot one of the smaller ships if we try to run separate ways. I know a little on the actual culture of Sraiks, so that's not a horrible option. If there's a fair chance of us all escaping together southeast, though..."

After another pause, he added, "I can see either being the viable. Captain Theiss, you're our combat tactician; your opinion?"

He stared intently at the rest of the ambassadors. He couldn't figure out which would be the greatest chance for success, so if any of them had a better idea, well, he'd go along with it.

[RJ45]

In her haste to get to the bridge, she had afforded herself two minutes to find a chair, get seated and try and mellow out. This is not how mornings are supposed to unfold. The chanting didn't help. Teth chanting. Disgusting creatures - as the captain explained that this isn't a vessel of war, she feels disappointed. Watching their ships crash and burn would have made up for the rude awakening. Too bad. Instead, Remedy has to think. After seven minutes of being awake.

"Sounds to me like they really love this Maurzhul creature. I bet if we took one of the smaller ships and crashed it into his face, they'd have second thoughts about chasing. Especially if it brings down one of those ships. Maybe even load the smaller boat with fuel, just to make it a gigantic torch. It's that or have us split, in which case they do the same and chase both of us down." Remedy shrugged and thought on it. Maybe there was a better way?

[daelrog]

Captain Ehsrell glanced at Remedy before he spoke. "And who would you have pilot that ship, love?" There was little humor in his voie as he also turned to Marina.

[RJ45]

"Yeah. I know." He brought up the flaw in her plan. It was one thing for Teth to die - sending a living person to their death was much, much different. Even suggesting such a thing made her feel... evil. "Sounds to me like either way we have losses, so anyone who's brave enough to step up would do. Still, I don't like the idea of sending anyone off to their certain death. Anybody got a better idea?" She tilted her head. Something occurred to her. "How many of the smaller ships does this one have, in total? How many people do you need to fly this one?"

[JeenLeen]

An intrigued look entered Chenzion's face at Remedy's proposal.

After a minor pause, and unfortunately the Captain's rebuke, he said, "...depending on the type of secondary ships you have docked... If you think they might try parlay, at least for information or to take prisoners, I could use that time to jerry-rig an automated path. They might be able to dodge, but that in itself should buy us a few precious seconds for a head start. I don't know their ships or style well enough to know if it's possible, though; Captain Theiss?"

OOC: Is this possible with the technology availiable, or something that Chenzion could whip up quickly given his expertise?

[Sinistral]

Olenna gave Chenzion an inquiring stare. "If you can really do what you say you do, I may be able to buy us the time we need. I just need to think." She paced back and forth across the room muttering unintelligibly to herself. She didn't need a lasting solution, just a way to delay them for a moment. Suddenly, she stopped pacing, a small smile creeping across her face. Yes, that could work...

She turned to address the captain, "You seem to know more about Maurzhul then I do, so tell me, is Maurzhul the kind of man who values personal ambition over his country, or is he a true patriot?"

[daelrog]

"Never met him before, all I know is heresay. I'm afraid to say though, that even if he isn't a man of country, he still holds a strong disliking to the human kingdoms."

To JeenLeen: Hmm... you could probably jerry-rig something in time. However, the small ships generally can hold between ten to twenty people. It's unlikely that it will sink a giant warship. The only way it wouldn't be shot from the sky is if was done at really close range. Keep in mind also that you'd better make two, cause both ships are headed straight for you.

So then, the plan being offered is to jerry-rig a couple of small ships to fire into the Teth warships in a surprise attack after a call for parlay? Possibly trying to buy as much time as possible? Interesting enough. As Greystone is busy these days (he's let me know) it falls to one of you all to make the final decision.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion quickly ran some figures in his head, now recalling what he had heard about the smaller ships on the courier. ...yes, it could work.

"Probably not enough to sink one, but if I had some of the crew help me load fuel or other explosives, it should slow them down. We'd have to let them close fairly close, but if we're pretending parlay, that shouldn't be a problem."

With a solemn pause, he added, "This will start the war early. Our chances of getting Honoria to join us may be limited if we are asking them to join a war we are already losing, not asking them to join with us in war against a common foe. This plan can work, but... I could also jerry-rig some of the smaller ships to go in random directions. We ambassadors flee in one of them, or even split up if we want better odds of some of us surviving. With luck, they'll chase dummies. Diplomatically, that might be better. It keeps Teth the obvious aggressor, whereas this tactic makes us... well, it's an ignoble tactic. I'm not above such, but it will look bad to other nations."

"I'm okay with either route. Lady Olenna or Captain Theiss, I look to your guidance. I can get to work on either; just let me know what to do."

OOC: To be clear, I'm rather neutral, and my character has stated my views. I'll leave it to RJ45 or Sinistral to make the final call.

[RJ45]

Remedy thought. Hard. There would be consequences for whatever path she would choose to take, but losing human lives would never be an acceptable loss.

"Let's ready one or two of them as close-range weapons. The rest need to be intact - the crew needs to be able to escape if things end badly. This isn't just about us. In the meanwhile, if we're getting that close anyways, we should try and reason with them. If they attack or if we cannot reach grounds we can both agree on, we sting and run. I want to convince them to leave us be. This ship and it's crew aren't disposable pawns... maybe we can even use some of the more valuable cargo on the ship to bargain with."

She tried to read the expressions of the others to gauge their reactions. "Sounds good?"

[JeenLeen]

Remedy's path seemed a good medium. If it came to early war, Teth was already the aggressor.

"If you all agree, that sounds good. Olenna, you can talk to the Teth and see what can be reached. Captain Eshrel, if you can give me some of your men to help me modify two of the small ships, I can get to get. If things look too sour, give me a signal and we'll launch them."

"...if it gets bad, we scatter or stay abroad? We can start getting the men to load some of the more important things into small crafts just in case. If we just run, it's with us. If Teth might be dissuaded by an offering of valuables... doubt it, but possible; that's your field, Lady Olenna... well, they'll be in a ship ready for transport."

As the plans finalized in his mind, Chenzion looked over his fellow ambassadors and said, with a sudden quickness and finality not common to the technician, "Remedy, Doctor, you two could help me loading; I don't know which medical supplies need to come if we flee. Lady Aurora and Sebb, I imagine there are some personal effects you two have that should come with us should we flee; unless you think your diplomatic skill could assist Olenna, I recommend you move them now. Baron, the same to you."

Starting to move towards the doors to leave the bridge, Chenzion finished by looking at Eshrel and Marinna, saying, "Sound like a good plan, Captains?"

[daelrog]

Captain Marina Theiss spoke for the first time,up to this point lost in thought. "Anyone who doesn't need to be distracting Maurzhul needs to be ready to escape at a moment's notice." She looked to to Eshrel. "Naval warfare is your expertise, is their plan sound?"

"No, no it's not. Nothing right now is a sound plan though, the Beserker knew when to charge us. Chenzion, set the ships to crash into their engines, located at the back of their vessels, it's the only part that is worth targetting." He turned to the young ambassador, no humor in his eye. "I already took the liberty to see if there were any messages from the ship. It's possible someone could have gotten around the system and warned Teth, but more likely the traitor is back at the capital."

Marina turned to Olenna. "I need to stay with Ambassador Chenzion. However, I'll leave one of my men to stand by you. You may choose which one you feel most comfortable with."

Right, so for the time being I'll play the role of Marina, Garret, and the Baron. Whenever Greystone gets a little more time, and dresdor and falconer pop back up they can immediately have their characters back.

I'll wait a couple more weeks on Garret and the Baron before they risk death. Of course, I won't kill them off in two weeks, it's just in two weeks it will become a possibility IF the possibility arises.

JeenLeen, congratulations for you get to make the first roll. Roll for each of the ships to see how well you 'fix' them.

[RJ45]

"Pff. I'd really like to give those Teth a piece of my mind." she talked to herself as she had turned from the others and started towards the cargo. There was no more sense talking about it - they would have to take action sooner or later. Besides, she would probably end up making things worse by talking with them directly.

It made her frustrated. Being down with the cargo while there would soon be life-or-death conversations taking place above her. However, there was importance to her being here: a thick, wooden chest with several locks around it. The items within it would prove to be more valuable than anything else this ship was carrying. So much, even, that it wasn't possible to barter away to the Teth. Two hands on the side handle, she was found dragging it down the corridor.

"Damn." She had the lockbox - that didn't mean she knew which ships were going to be weapons, which ships would be full of expendable valuables, and which ships would be used for escape. Incapable of doing anything else, she had a seat on the hefty lockbox and took a bit of a break. It wasn't all that heavy, but it was for her. She had to wait. Wait for someone to come by who knew what ships were going where.

Leaving this chest sitting here unattended wasn't an option.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion nodded solemnly, and while starting to run off, added a quick, "Spies... well, things are as they are. Captain Theiss, if you are sure about Olenna coming with me, very well, but, but I do question if she should stay on the bridge." He sped up once he left the bridge.

Moving down to the ships, he began working on the jerry-rig, ordering some of the men to help him move things, but doing all the actual hand-on work personally. Spies!

Modifications to the navigation systems, some automation to help aiming, and... well... explosives aren't that hard to design. Having lost himself a little in the work, the solemn look left his face, replaced with a clear focus as his hands and mind worked deftly at the task at hand.


Two ships, right?
Expert in technological lore, history, and theory (d6) - feel free to 'refluff' the jerry-rig specifications if needed; I don't know what Avendell tech is or OOC what much real technology is like, but I was trying to make it sound good.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Sinistral]

Olenna quickly sized up the Reavers. Ryan would be best served assisting Chenzion in engineering, so that left Mikhil and Claire. Mikhil and Ryan and seemed to work best together, and Claire’s flight could prove useful. "I believe Miss Shimmersong should stay with me. Her mobility could be helpful to me."

Olenna turned her attention back to the captain, her face set in a grim mask of determination. "I need you to let me speak with the lead Teth ship. Now. Time is not a luxury we can afford to waste right now.” She seemed almost hesitant, then addressed the captain in hushed tones. “I’ll be honest with you, a peaceful solution to this problem is not likely at this point. I may have to resort, unorthodox, methods to delay them. Just remember that no matter what I say I’m still on your side.”

[daelrog]

Captain Elahai waved his hand as if to dismiss any thought of mistrust on his part. "I am at your beck and call Milady." He turned to a young man standing at attention, only his eyes moving back and forth between the assembled party. "Ensign, raise the colors asking the Teth ships for negotiations.

Without a word the Ensign walkedo ut of the room.


On board the Raging Dawn

In another langauge, a Beserker, a Chosen covered in golden armor from head to toe turned to his leader. "Venerable One, the humans are asking for negotiations. They want it by radio."

Venerable One Maurzhul let the words sink in before answering. "Take the helm"


As everyone began to leave save for Claire, Olenna, Eshrel, and a few of his men, a deep voice wrung out. The voice, though obviously not human, betrayed intelligence, if not the illusion of it. "I much prefer to negotiate face to face. Who am I to speak with? Is this Chenzion d'lo Falquier?"

[daelrog]

Maurzhul only waited for a moment. At hearing silence, he pressed forward. "You have two choices Halberd, slow down and allow us to board, or prepare your cannons. You have one minute to decide." The voice fell off. Something in the tone of his voice suggested that he was counting the seconds, and that no reply would result in the latter option.


24 hours to give a response. Either Olenna needs to speak up, or one of the other characters needs to run back up the bridge and make the call. Hopefully by getting past the start and going into the thick of things, we can start moving at a bit quicker pace. You guys keep posting and I'll make sure to keep it interesting.

EDIT:Also, dresdor and falconer, you guys have one more week of room before your characters are no longer have immunity from death. Any time you post in the OOC, IC, or PM me, you'll be free again for another month if you're too busy at the moment.

[Sinistral]

Olenna swore under her breath. He knew who they were. That was definitely a bad sign. Well, there was no sense in keeping the bastard waiting. "I'm afraid that the Lord Chenzion is not available right now. This is the Lady Olenna Jezal. I'm afraid that we will be unable to comply with your demands for the moment. We're having some minor engine trouble. We'd be more then happy to let you board after we repair the engines. So, let's not do anything rash. We wouldn't want you to do anything you would regret." If Maurzhul was smart, he would never believe it. Not that it mattered; he didn't need to believe it.

[daelrog]

Maurzhul breathed out. "Lady Olenna Jezal, please do not take me for a fool. Either you are trying to stall me, or are testing my resolve." Static took over for a long five seconds as the next words were spoken carefully. "Very well, since your vessel is in no condition to be boarded, I will be arriving on deck via a Dagger, accompanied by a full squadron." He was willing to play along with her ruse, at least so far. "I will land as the Justice's forward cannons come into range of your crippled vessel, which should be in three minutes."

And then his voice was gone.


Fun Fact of the Day
You are now in dire straights. (Sorry, it was too fun not to say:smalltongue:) Cuurently, the Halberd is being flanked by two Teth warships, the Raging Dawn which is built for close range bombardment and boarding, and the Justice which is built for long range support. Naturally, the first ship is in front, and both are flanking oyu, so winning a straight up battle is most likely beyond your ability (cause I can't think of how).

"Daggers" are fighter type vessels that usually run on two pilots, one navigator, one gunner. However, they can also work on a secondary role of transport and can comfortable sit twelve additional soldiers, which you can assume they will do.

There are several hundred crew on board the Halberd, so a full squadron of Daggers (which is three) will not be enough to overwhelm the ship.

Depsite Chenzion's genius, it will still take him a good twenty minutes to a half hour to get the wrok done. I mean, ten minutes to get explosives on the ships, to completely re-do their systems, and to put in a program to have them launch around the greater whole of the ships and into their backside isn't something done with two flips of a switch. Maurzhul will arrive shortly prior to when Chenzion will be done.

What you all do now is up to you.

(For those not in the decision-making seat, feel free to share how your characters feels about the current situation.:smallbiggrin:)

[RJ45]

Remedy was seated on the chest. She didn't move in the least or even make a sound since she heard the discussion above. How she wished she was up with the others - but she had important business down here. Business that was being stalled due to a terribly simple problem. "Damnit." she complained. Where was Chenzion - where was anyone that could help her?!

Remedy thought the situation through - the same picture comes to mind. Teth soldiers leaping from a small boat in large numbers and overthrowing the boat. The thought of being killed didn't scare her - the thought of everyone else being killed because of her suggestion would haunt her dreams, unless this tided over well... not to mention the thought of being a slave to the Teth.

For the briefest of moments, Remedy pictured herself with a collar around her neck, a chain attached to it. She only thought about that for about four seconds before reaching into her pocket, flipping open her cigarette case and lighting one up. One, because she hadn't had one since morning and needed one. Two, because now's a convenient time. Three, because putting it out in the face of a Teth soldier would be one of the most pleasing things she's ever done - if it got that far.

[daelrog]

"Well my dear, it looks like the Bloodied One has made himself clear. Shall we meet him on the deck, that is unless you plan to shoot him from the sky." The Captain laugehd his own quip off. He knew their mission was to win over Honoria, to kill a hero of Teth within Honorian borders would not bode well at all, even under these cirumstances. After all, Teth had yet to officially declare any hostile intent.

Apparently the Beserkers knew something of intrigue and guile.


Olenna, Claire, Eshrel, and Gileman, who had been waiting for them, all stood upon the deck with two hundred armed naval guards and crewmen. The Teth ships had slowed to match the speed of the Halberd, though reports from the command deck had let them know that the Justice was now within range, a good 150% of what the Halberd could muster, save that which Chenzion was finishing.

The Daggers had three weapons, a lance on each wings for harassing bigger vessels, on a gatling cannons mounted below the cockpit for dogfights. The daggers were not the best fighters though, dealing with the excess space and weight of the back compartment for troop transport. Battles two generations ago had seen Avendell deal a severe blow to Teth's pride in a minor skirmish when Teth Daggers had come up against Avendell's dedicated fighter to fighter ship, the Talon. Too bad they didn't have any Talons on board.

The ships landed with ease, taking little time to open up, and for thirty warriors, ten from each vessel march out. Armed with ceremonial spears, they appeared little threat to sailors armed with firearms, that is until they walked closer.

The Beserkers were known for their size, children's stories suggested that some grew as tall as thirty feet. Though not nearly that great of height, each Beserker was at least six-foot-six, and each was covered in golden armor from head to toe, all save for one.

Maurzhul was easy to pick out, walking in the center of them. He wore only a tight-fitting spandex material underneath patches of bodyarmor, and leather breeches that were worn loose as not to inhibit his movements if need be. He was a beast of seven feet, his eyes were feral red, and his calloused grey skin probably worked as a secondary armor.

As he approached the four standing to meet him, his mouth showed two rows canines. They were carnivores.

"The Captain, his first mate, his negotiator, and a Reaver." He nodded as if in approval. "I will listen to what you say, without interruption so long as you do not repeat yourself. After you have said your peace and finished trying to dissuade me through threats, bribes, twisted logic, and after declaring yourself both ingnorant and righteous in your mission, I will demand you turn around and surrender convincing Honoria to join Avendell's bloodlust. You may begin human." His eyes set upon Olenna.

Somehow, Olenna knew that he knew she was an Alter, yet had made a point of stating her otherwise. Through most her life, she would have preferred the luxuries of being human. It was ironic that of all people to see her as such was one who did not use it as a compliment.

[JeenLeen]

At hearing of the changes in events, Chenzion's calm and efficent working changed into an efficient whirl of engineering and cursings.

A few times he glanced over his shoulder, both at the crew assisting him and his fellow ambassadors who has gathered. Possible spies amongst us, and Chosen on the ship as well. At least they declared they know of our mission, which... might mean we can say they opened the first hostile move. Blasted politics!

Realizing he probably didn't have time to finish everything before it might well become moot, he turned over to his fellow ambassadors and said, "You should probably start choosing a ship to escape in if things get hairy. This job is going well, and it should be ready soon enough to give them some suprise, but I don't think we're getting out of this without using escape ships."

Turning to one a group of stronger crew members, he said, "You all, please assist us in moving what belongings we need into the ships the other ambassadors choose. If there is time, please also return to my quarters. There is in the open a bow and a sword. Please also grab a tan case; there are some valuables and tools in there we will find useful in the future. ...if there is not time, though... well, use your judgment and base it on the needs of the other ambassadors."

That at least should get the majority of his tools and devices, his bow, and extra sword with him. For a moment, he wondered if he had tossed a few extra books in there, but then he quickly redirected his mind to what was urgent. Seemed reading time would be a luxury he won't be seeing for a while.

[daelrog]

As Chenzion finished up the second ship in a hurrid manner, the deckhands and mechanics began helping the ambassadors with those belongings they needed, taking them to then nearest lifeboats.

Under the orders of Marina, her Reavers split up, so that each boat would have at least one of the elite soldiers. As they appraoched their exits, their safety nets, the heroes of Avendell couldn't help but notice how calm the crew were, albeit distant. Everything now rested on Olenna and Maurzhul, two of the greatest pawns in the game of wills between two nations.


Above the Beserker waited for her reply. If it had been anyone else, the seasoned commander would have seen the glint of anticipation in their eye, knowing they were stalling time. However, within the dark depths of Olenna's gaze, he could see nothing ,only speculate to her intentions.

Deep down she knew that theo hters were ready. She had bought the small amount of time she needed, but at what cost? Now she stood in the line of fire. She could only hope that the htree with her were capable enough of handling Maurzhul. She could only hope that rumors of his prowess in battle were exaggerated.

Fun Facts of the Day
The Lifeboats

The Lifeboats are not reallyships, more like large capsules with engines. They have no weapons, and each can hold up to five people. They can reliably travel about ten miles before they need to land, and our intrepid heroes are certainly more than ten miles away from the nearest city.

Right now, everyone is hovering above the Grey Wastes, a large stetch of crags that is inhosipitable to most life, and is impossible to cultivate. Whatever reousrces it has is lost underneath several hundred feet of shale, and sulphuric geysers that have thus far been impossible to predict. This above all else is why Avendell and Honoria have been able to stay at peace for so long, the lands that could be in conflict, unwanted by either side.



Update as a whole:
Last I checked, dresdor hasn't been on for some time, but Falconer has. If any of you know him better than I and feel up to it, give him a nudge. I have serious plans for the Baron, but of course, that can only happen if Falconer is still interested. I want Garret on too, but I'll have to wait and see if dresdor comes back online. I know Greystone had to cancel another game he was in from being busy, so I do want to thank him for sticking with this one and going on hiatus as an alternative for the time being.

However, with you three (RJ, Sinistral, JeenLeen), we can keepthings moving at a steady pace. I don't know about you guys, but I'm excited to see what happens next. To Sinistral: If you feel the need to roll to see how well your attempt to dela with Maurzhul is, go ahead. He won't outright betray his nation, but dealing with him at the moment may be possible with a lucky enough roll, or some other creative trick you can come up with.

[Sinistral]

Olenna returned Maurzaul's glare. She couldn't help it, she liked the Teth war hero. He gave an aura of competence that reminded her of herself. They both served powers higher then themselves, and they were both masters of their craft. She just had make sure their contest was decided using hers, not his.

"I see the rumors about you were true, you are more then a dumb brute. But I'm sure you won't be lulled into complacency with my flattery. I need to speak with you alone. Now. We have little time as it is, and we can't waste it with diplomatic posturing."

The rest of the crew had probably executed the plan now, but that didn't mean she couldn't try to solve this herself. She still had one more card she could play...

[daelrog]

Maurzhul smiled at her request. "Very well, I assume you have a suitable location already?"

[daelrog]

As Maurzhul waited for Olenna's reply, she noticed the Captain shift uneasily as something came out of the center Dagger. It was a large creature, just over twelve-feet-tall, the same golden armor adorned it as the Chosen, save the fact it appeared to be nailed into its skin, skin that was pale with a bluish tent.

It was a hulky beast with a short neck, and it was hairless. Tiny beedy eyes glimmered with bestial intelligence, and it yawned, several rows of long, sharp teeth glistening in the sun.

The creature was a Teth Hellbeast, rare creatures that were aid to be nigh unstoppable.

maurzhul looked over his shoulder. "Ah yes, I felt it prudent to take it along in case I walked into an Avendell firing line." He turned back to the Alter. "If there are words to be said, let's make haste."


Below the Ambassadors stepped into the cramped lifeboats. Excluding Olenna and Claire, they only needed two. Marina insisted upon Chenzion taking the same vessel as she, and that her subordiantes take the other. Before any could speak, Sebb also took seat with the Captain and Chenzion pulling Aurora and Garret along as well, chuckling as if all was where it should be.

Their seats were taken, and at any moment they could be violently thrusted away from the ship, into the wilderness below.

It all rested upon Olenna.

[Sinistral]

Wonderful. They had brought one of their famed death beasts. Teth really didn’t want their mission to succeed. This was almost good news; Teth was genuinely worried about the possibility of an alliance. Maybe they weren’t so invincible after all. This information could prove useful. Of course, she had to solve the problem at hand first. Long term political maneuvering could come later. Assuming of course, the ‘current problem’ didn’t cut her in half.

Olenna positioned herself so that her back was to the Avendell soldiers, and approached Maurzhul.
She lowered her voice so only Maurzhul could hear, and began to spin the elaborate fiction she had concocted .

“Listen closely, I’m only saying this once. This is a trap. This whole airship is rigged with explosives for the purpose of ridding Teth of it’s best general before Avendell launches a joint preemptive strike with Honoria. Now, I’m sure you’re asking yourself why is she telling me this. It’s simple, I’m a bitter old crone who only cares about myself, and I have no wish to die heroically for my country.” Well, that part was true. “I wasn’t even supposed to be here, but I guess my Queen decided she has no further use for me.” She spat out the title like an insult. “I wish I could see her face when she gets word you escaped her trap. I wouldn’t like to be a the one giving her that message.” She cackled spitefully. A touch theatrical perhaps, but not far off from her own feelings on the Queen. “My payment for bringing this message can be discussed later, but for now I suggest we get of this ship before the Queen’s agents realize I’m not on their side anymore and blow us all to smithereens.”

If all went well, Maurzhul and his forces would flee the ship, giving Chenzion and her other allies the opportunity to cripple the Teth warships. Hopefully, his hatred of humans and his own since of honor would make him disgusted enough with her that he would just leave her what he would assume to be a fiery death. Hopefully.

I think this counts as concealing the truth, so I roll a D8. [roll0].
Also, sorry about the long wait time.:smallredface:

[RJ45]

Remedy found herself inside one of the smaller vessels, seated upon her lockbox. The vessel was crowded. Good. That would mean that more people would survive this. In theory. Still, the moment truly bothered her. There was only one thing she could do - sit on that very lifeboat and pretend that she would be perfectly fine and that she wouldn't be falling to her death in a flaming, flying ship. She shot glances around between the crowd on the small ship.

The others must have been much, much more nervous than her, she figured. It is in this that she's able to keep her calm - or at least fake being calm. It's not like she could do anything else here - she didn't know a thing about piloting any vessel that wasn't a little rowboat. Speaking of which, the thought of two small ships being piloted by... well, 'magic' and crashing into the Teth warships was an additional worry. Remedy looked for Chenzion, so she could bother him about it.

At least the unimportant chatter would put them at ease. So she figured - but Chenzion was not found aboard her ship.

[daelrog]

Maurzhul was none to plseased at being called the best General in Teth. Still though, a sligh glimmer in his eyes said he beleived her, at least he wanted to believe her. "We depart at once."

Though his voice was not loud, the Honor Guard immediately began filing back into the ships. Captain Elahai could only look in wonder as Olenna was joining them, as a dark understanding crossed his mind. He made a small motion of a circl around his heart, a sign of goodwill. However, the Alter never saw it, already being shuffled into a tight fitted ship, Maurzhul right on her heels.In no less than a minute, all three Daggers were off.

Olenna was relieved that the Hellbeast was on a different ship.

"Understand at the moment you are not to leave my sight unless I give permission. Years ago I remember the first soldier of Avendell willing to sell out of his lord, the King before Fiorza. I struck him down where he stood, assuming it was a lie, and a poor one at that." He leaned back almost smiling to himself. "It wasn't until years later I found out that the priorities in Avendell differ from our own."

This brought a few chuckled from a few Beserkers who understood the language.

"What I'm going to tell you I say without pause, because even if you are not a traitor, and even if the Queen herself learns of this, it will amount to very little." Maruzhul paused, seeing Olenna patiently waiting for hi to continue. "We in Teth are split in warring with Avendell. Many feel it is time atone for past dishonors, and others see a war as a endless possibility for political rise. However, many of us are not willing to see Great Teth kill itself along with you warmongering b**** Queen.

"In this regard, Teth is not alone. As you already know, there are those within your own nation who seek to stem this war, knowing full where the destruction it would cause. We already knew of your mission weeks before you did, as well as three of your number."

Olenna knew that Chenzion was one of them, the other two she did not know.

"The leader of your country's resistance is a capable man, I daresay I might even respect him." He changed the subject before Olenna could inquire, and somehow she knew that he was not yet willing to give names. "Understand that I will do everything within my power to stop this war from happening. If I have to sarifice every soldier under my command and even myself, if I have to raze a hundred village to the ground, if I have to commit atrocities unseen in a generation I will do so, because only by stopping your fellow Ambassadors can both our nations, and millions of lives be saved. Know this as I order the Justice to kill them."



On board the Halberd

"Captain Elahai!"

"Report."

"We've itnercepted a message from Maurzhul's Dagger. They intend to shoot us down!"

Eshrell let out a Fey curse, a dark, hissing sound that sent Gileman and Claire on edge. "Launch the ships the now!"

Within a moment two soaring, white birds acended from the bottom deck, soaring his above the Teth warships. At first the Teth warships did nothing, until the Raging Dawn saw that no crew was inside. Cannosn and weapon batteries opened up from both ships, yet Chenzion had far exceeded expectations, the two unamnned ships avoiding gunfire, not swiftly, but effectively nonetheless.

The first ship was making its way around the Justice, jsut as the second was hit, right above the command deck. To those gazing from the Halberd, there was a moment of silence, before this ship fell down, landing into the command of the Raging Dawn, fire spreading throughout the ship. It was not enough to cripple it, but it bought some time.

The Justice however did not fair as well, the ship arching around and decended into its back. The leaner Teth ship had fewer short range weapons, and it cost them, for in a moment an ear splitting sound screamed out as the warship began to descend. Before it did, it fired.

Eshrel shouted a command to take cover, but none heard as a beam of lightstruck the Halberd. It seemed as if everything went aflame.


On board the first lifeboat, with Marina, Chenzion, Garret, and the two others, everything shook. Sebb's icy fingers hovered over the lever to release them, but before they could do anything, a young woman opened the door. "The Captain has sent word, we should be able to escape."

The second lifeboat did not fair as well, for the fires were already reaching its doors. No message from the Captain came, and no one was quite sure who pulled the lever but they fell away from the Halberd, descending into the Wildernesses below.


As the three Daggers alnded on board the Raging Dawn, Maurzhul turned to Olenna, he had been degnerously sielnt when the ruse had been discovered. "I understand now why your Queen chose you to accompany this mission. You will regret your actions by the time this is all over."



Yay! End of the first chapter (if we actually did chapters). Just so you know what I was thinking as this happened, here were the rolls and stuff needed.

Chenzion's rigging of the ships need a 1 or 2 to be succesfful, 3 or 4 to be aprtially succesful, 5 or above to fail.

Olenna needed a 4 to lie to Maurzhul.

So yeah, Olenna is now captured, and five of the crew are not 'lost' in the Wildernesses [Remedy, Baron, Mikhil, Ryan, and Drajj]. That, and the ship is in poor condition. So effectively half your team is out of commission. Huzzah!"

[RJ45]

Stuck. Like a caged rat. Remedy was inside the ship, seated on her lockbox as before. She was deep in thought, thinking "Maybe Grandma pulled it off and convinced the Teth to go away. Maybe it's a matter of a few minutes and we will all come back to the dining hall and talk about how narrowly we avoided the Teth doing anything to us. Yeah. That's definit-"

Just as she was thinking, she heard various mechanical bits working on the ship. The chattering between the people on the ship grew to become a silence unlike any other. Not a breath was had. Explosions. Fire. A terrible explosion so ferocious that it would make thunder sound like a whisper - and with that, the small ship they were in shook. There was a mild panic, but everyone knew that it could and would come to this.

It didn't take much more than hearing that sound and feeling the Halberd being shreded by a hellish weapon to send the ship they were in fleeing. Where? Remedy didn't know. She wasn't piloting the thing - they'd die for certain if she were. It was moving as fast as it could, possibly being chased by Teth ships. At the moment, she could only think of the others. Dead. They couldn't have survived that. Here she was, with the final few survivors of the incident.

Remedy had given up on thinking. Between the immense feelings generated from the Halberd incident up to thoughts of what they would do from here forward, it all became a blur to her. All she knew was the ship was moving and she was still alive. She stared off the ship, towards the ground. "Odd." The ground was getting closer. "Wait. We're not flying - we're falling!" Remedy braced against the frame of the ship. She didn't know how rough they would be landing, and she didn't want to be jostled around.

[JeenLeen]

Numbers and simulations went through Chenzion's mind as his life boat launched. Did Olenna succeed? Did his ship-bombs succeed? What of the other ambassadors, did they escape?

Ten miles until a rough landing. A quick calculation gave Chenzion the estimated time-to-arrival. This was not ideal at all, and it was all too likely that they would be in the Wastelands. It was survivable; an expression of sadness and worry covered Chenzion's face as he decided that 'survivable' was probably the best he could hope for in quite a long time.

He looked over his fellow passengers, surveying their emotions. What was going through their minds.

Realizing that the above was because I misunderstood what had happened, I'm rewriting my post.

As Chenzion and the others got out of the life boat, he looked around. Fires and ship damage, but it sounded like things were operating fine. He quickly ran to help the crew with repairs.

His mind was focused on repairs and noticing anything others might overlook, but a moment of horrifying realization came when he saw the other lifeboat, the one with his fellow ambassadors, was gone and the fires were worse there. It had obviously been launched... Well, no time to think on that now.

[daelrog]

It had been a long night, a very, very long night.

For the six who still remained aboard the Halberd, it was a hollow victory. The handmaiden Aurora took it worst of all, locking herself in her room, crying over her would-be friend Alice. Although the others could sympathize, none could get over the fact that even he sobs seemed to be done with the utmost care, her breeding extending to all facets of her being.

Despite reason, logic, and even threats, the Fey Captain would not turn around ,would not send out a search party. One of the Teth warships was still air born, lucikly it was the one that was slower.

Garret was busy helping the ship's doctor deal with the wounded. His cursed under his breath as he worked, wishing to be in the arms of his wife, wishing he wouldn't have to see the pains of war again. It was unnerving seeing a man sent to help start a war, hate it so much.

Marina had stayed close to Chenzion from then on. Although it was unlikely that someone from the ship alerted the Beserkers of their mission, whoever did was in a high place, and it was not unreasonable to assume that their influnece reached the Halberd. It would be another couple days before they reached Honoria, but they had received wrod from the King that they were under his jurisdiction now, and that he would ensure their safety the rest of the way.


For five others, the night had been the thing of nightmares. At first their eyes had played with them, seeing shadows dance in every nook and cranny. WIthin the hour they were no illusions. Wild howling and the beating of drums surrounded them. There were many fell races that lied in the Wildernesses. Which these were, they could not see.

The Baron, Mikhil, and Ryan took turns keeping watch while the others tried to sleep. None could as the shouting only grew louder as the night waned.

"The want to scare us senseless." The Baron had been in such a situation before. "They'll keep us up all night, make us think they're evil spirits come to claim our souls." He paused, recalling an advendure before Alice was born. "To be honest, I think we had wished they were evil spirits."

As morning came, their oppressors wre visible. Covered in mangy red fur and hunched over, their snarling maws snapped again and again. With sharp,, filth-encrusted claws they circled around slowly. It was only a matter of minutes, if even that.


For Olenna, it had actually been a short night. She had been given a simple room, no windows, and the door was lcoked behind her. The vent above was screwed to the wall on the other side. She may as well sleep. There would be time to plan an escape the next day.

She awakened to the smell of bread and butter, and the sight of her enemy. He held out a plate to her. "Eat, and then we talk."


On board the Halberd, Marina spoke up to Chenzion. "Tell me, why are you here."

[RJ45]

Remedy had dragged herself up out of sleep. She expected this all to be the product of a bad dream. Unfortunately, it wasn't. She wasn't a particularly light sleeper, so she was rested far better than the rest, despite the surreal surroundings. As usual, she had her morning cigarette while looking over the long, dead terrain. It was sad to watch. Weeds and shrubs were little more than carcasses as they tried to grow. The complete lack of the color green gives a lot to be desired. "Figures. I'm never riding a flying ship again." she spoke to herself. At least she isn't dead - yet. The other ambassadors, except for the baron, were all probably dead. "Damned Teth. I'll make sure you pay for what you did."

Her moment to be angry at the events that had come to pass came to a sudden end. She could see the creature's ragged bodies and snarling faces. Beasts. She made sure everyone was awake - because one way or another, they'd need everyone. "You obviously know something about them - anything we could do to distract them, make them not attack or... well, anything? I'd really rather not resort to punching them, and i'd rather that nobody got hurt, since nothing grows here." Remedy wasn't like the others. She didn't have a weapon, because she never really found a need for one. Until now. In her pocket was a bag of disorienting powder, but that wouldn't kill. It was moreso a defense incase someone decided to attack her for whatever reason or try and rob her.

There was no time left. If they didn't act now, their life would be taken from them and added to the dead wilderness.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion paused for a moment at Marina's abrupt question. His eyes glanced around their location, his head unmoving, and he said at normal speaking voice but not trying hard to mask his statement as a cover story, "Captain, perhaps we can discuss security. It seems necessary. My room, perhaps?"

Once inside, Chenzion closed the door and turned to her. He took out a small device, said almost partially to himself, "This jams small very localized signals. Should help if my room is bugged." After having activated the device and placing it on a table, he turned to the Reaver captain.

"To be honest, I am not completely sure. I am the heir of House Casva, obviously. My knowledge and work in machinery has earned me some notoriety. However, I'm not a politician; I don't have the knack for it, and while I know a lot about culture and magic and some about other races, sending me as an ambassador to another nation... well, if I did not know the Queen's skill at politics, I would call it foolish."

"In the Queen's letter, she told me of some of her conerns. She hopes to secure some independent lands that Teth will seize soon otherwise. By allying with Honoria, she hopes to intimidate them into not going to war; obviously, that may be a moot point. She authorized me to trade some assets of Avendell to Honoria to get the King's assistance, as necessary."

He pauses for a moment, cold calculation in his eyes. "But that is a task that others, and many more skilled at such than I, could be given. As for why I am here, I do not truly know. Olenna, you, the doctor, and the Baron are the only ones among us who really make sense. In fact, before you spoke to me, I was thinking of asking Sebb the same question you just posed to me. ...but to security, do you have any idea of the spy?"

I assume that device is okay to have. It seems a reasonable thing for him to have created and take with him. I conceive of it as something that emits a scrambling frequency or however their supertech works, but it is stopped by rather dense materials (or otherwise set up) such that the scrambling does not leave the room so that it will not disrupt any electronic (or etherial, whatever) waves the ship uses for communications or navigation. As Chenzion knows ship theory fairly well, he should be able to craft something that won't interfere. If not, he asks Marina to move to a more secluded section of the ship; his room is more likely to be bugged than most areas.

[daelrog]

Marina shook her head. "Most likely there is someone with influence pulling the strings. The Colonel and I dealt with several such threats in order to restore Avendell's peace. Unfortunately we are not here to root out spies and traitors, our only goal is to convince Honoria to join the war effort." She looked at Chenzion, with no comfort in her eyes. "Fear is how the weak try to gain strength over the powerful. Focus on what you are supposed to do, and let me do the same."


The Baron turned, a sympathetic smile on his face. "Sorry, love. Back then we had three times as many men, and a Wizard."

Ryan and Mikhil marked what they thought to be leaders.

Rajj did not move, choosing to sit down. Of the five, he seemed the least concerned.

One of the monsters' number stepped forward, if not the leader, then some osrto f champion. Its hair was longer, and wilder. It was powerfully built, and carried with it a large axe. Snorting loudly and stamping its feet, it spoke in a guttural language, pointing to each of its prey.

The Baron let out a heart-felt laugh. "I think he is challenging us. If you would excuse me my dear."

Ryan tried to speak out but te Baron was done with words. He looked much like the youthful, daring adventurer that Alice had recalled from the stories. Still, Remedy could not help but think he was trying to go out with a bang.

Right, so I'll be doing some rolls, and later today or tomorrow, we'll see how the Baron fairs. Things will pick up extremely soon so keep posted.

Also, as far as recruitment, though I will not open up recruitment again, if any of you have a friend or know someone who is both relaible, and would be itnerested, we could add another person or two that way. I think if it's someone you know, they can be brought up to speed sooner, and will be more reliable.

[RJ45]

The truth was that Alice hadn't spent much time reading the novels. She wasn't one for reading, with the exception of reading to help her accomplish a task. As he told her that he was to stand against this foe, she found herself speechless, as Ryan was. Nothing she would say would change the fate he had invoked upon himself this day.

Alice fiddled with the side of the lockbox, slipping a key into a hidden hole and popping it open. The front lock was a disguise - in the immediate top was full of nothing more than ladies undergarments, to throw off anyone that might decide to break into it. In such, the box opened from the middle, in a very odd fashion. Under that layer lies the true treasure. Treasure that Alice was pocketing on herself. She tried to fit as much of it as she can in various pouches and bags she had, fitting them safely on pouches around her dress.

Afterwards, she slammed the thing shut. "I think we should run while they're distracted. I really don't think this ends well for us, even if we do win this little tournament."

Of course, she hoped they would agree. Drajj didn't say a word the entire time, but that's fairly typical. Shadows. Remarkably, Shadows never really bothered Remedy, despite her general dislike of the unhuman races. What it came down to was Ryan and Mikhil, both of which she wrote off as wanting to fight.

Remedy felt alone, being in the middle of a barren wilderness, crash-landed here with a group of... well, acquaintances. What happened to the comfortable, luxurious life of being an ambassador?

[daelrog]

The Baron Draugus Domitian Andreas Selenus Pertinax, Head of the Adventurer's Guild walked out onto the battlefield once more.

Ryan only shook his head at Remedy while Mihkail only pointed behind him. Remedy could see clearly now that there were more of them in the crags behind. There was no escape.

The Baron pulled off his wide-brimmed, floppy red hat and tossed it to the side, the hat spinning perfectly through the air. He took off hsi glasses, sliding them into his front pocket, the glasses merely for show. His equally scarlet cape fell off his broad shoulders onto the dirt.

The monster was a full head taller if it stood erect. Hunched as it was, it was slightly shorter.

"Grel sryl domnu, Savage One." Savge One, the name given to the dozens of disparate races that inahbited the Wildernesses, save for the civil Fey, and soem of the more notorious ones that lived nearer to the cities. It was a language that worked well throughtout most the savage, unrelenting lands.

Though the monster did not understand the words, it understood that this man knew something of its world. With its axe it gave its hand a shallow cut, letting a few drops hit the earth.

The Baron pulled the eagle head off his cane, revealing a sword underneath the wood. He did likewise.

In another manner of seconds, it had begun.

The monster through its axe down, the Baron jumping bakwards to avoid the blow. His eyes widened as the axe smashed the ground, sending shapr pieces of rock into the air, blinding him, unable to see the next blow by the creature's free hand, knocking him to the ground. The Baron's body collapsed under the strength. He did not have time to look up beofre hte axe came down again, leaving a wide gash from his collar to his belly.

He was dead before his body hit the ground.

The gargled roaring of the mosnter's filled the air. They began to inch closer to the party. The fell creature that had slain the Baron looked into Remedy's eyes. It smiled. Then its eyes grew blank. Then it collapsed, five arrows in its back.

Another wild shout wrung into the sky as black-shafted arrows whsitled in the sky felling another half a dozen of the mosnters. Fey burst into view cutting the creatures down with contemptuous ease, their surprise attack taking their enemy off guard.

The mosnters retreated, the Fey short on their heels. Approaching the party cam an odd sight. Not just Fey, but a few humans, wild and savage in their own right approached them, the first a stunningly beautiful woman with borwn-bleached hair, tan skin, and a small layer of dirt that did not do her injustice.

"Who are you?" Her accent was Honorian.

[RJ45]

Alice could do nothing more than watch. Every direction - the savages were everywhere. The battle between the two had begun, and her eyes remained focused ahead. She didn't want to watch, but she couldn't divert her eyes.

Time had slowed down. Her heart thumped in her chest.

As quickly as it had begun, it ended. The sound of an axe slicing deep into the body of a human seemed to stick freshly into her mind. This would be the end of her life. In the last fleeting moments, she thought about everything she didn't do. "I didn't outclass my father. I didn't raise a family. I didn't get that mansion. I didn't even get revenge on the Teth! Damn it!" Despite being surrounded by the beasts, she was more angry than afraid, even knowing her position: an unarmed, helpless woman.

It was then that a storm of arrows crashed upon that very fighter that had been in the miniature tournament but mere seconds ago. Alice watched on, completely dumbfounded as the beasts that were supposed to kill her this day disappeared entirely, drowned out by the sea of arrows from her saviors. This was an unpredictable event. The early morning sun was rising for them - save for the Baron. Alice, who was stunned by the event, merely stood there fumbling through her pocket as the Fae words passed her ears like an entirely foreign sound. A few sparks from the device in her pocket and the end of the cigarette in her mouth glowed brightly.

"I am Remedy. We've come from Avendell in an airship and we crashed here. We -" she shot a glance to the corpse of the baron. "I am an ambassador." She didn't appear happy. The truth was that only bad things had happened since the Teth arrived, and this happening was nothing short of a miracle. "Who are all of you? You just saved our lives." Remedy was very grateful, although a bit stunned.

[Sinistral]

.Olenna gradually roused herself from sleep, somewhat surprised that she was still alive. Apparently the barbarism of the Teth was slightly overestimated. That, or Maurzhul still thought he had a use for her. She hadn't said a word to the Teth general since the Justice had been destroyed, and her betrayal had been revealed, but it appeared he was willing to talk now.

She accepted the bread, and began to eat. While not exactly the feast she had for her last meal, she had lived on much worse. While she was she, ate she began to think. There had to be a way out of this. Somehow. Rescue or escape would be almost impossible in her current situation, but that slim chance would be completely extinguished if Maurzhul returned to Teth with her as his prisoner. Her short term goal was clear; keep Maurzhul pursuing her fellow ambassadors. Now the only problem was just how she was going to keep Maruzhul pursuing the ambassadors in a damaged warship in enemy territory. But that was the easy part. Maurzhul provided that answer himself.

“I’ve been giving some thought to your position.” She paused to tear off a hunk of bread. “I don’t know that much about Teth politics, but if you are any indication, and if you’re people are anything like mine, you have a healthy contempt the people of Avendell. Puny humans, and all that. So I wonder what your ‘friends’ back home will think when word gets out that the mighty Maurzhul lost half his forces failing to capture a diplomatic Avendell vessel. I imagine it won't help your politcal standing.”

Poking the bear was rarely the wisest strategy, but it always produced results.

[daelrog]

Maurzhul blinked a few times, then laguehd out loud. "I believe it is much like your kingdom, where some would make excuses for me, others would you it as an excuse ot hate me. No woman, I think of the two of us you are in the more troubled situation. You see, I will not return home until I acheive vicotyr, or every last one of us dead. No, I think you should wonder how your people will think should they find out the time your spent alone on a Teth warship, wondering where your loyalties lie." He leaned in clsoer, and Olenna could smell blood on his lips. After all, the Beserker werr carnivores. "The problem with liars such as yourself is that your Queen, your countrymen, and even your fellow Ambassadors may not know when you tell the truth and when you don't. Such confusion can make for a less than pleased reception if you come back in one piece."

Maurzhul sat back, observing the spymaster for a moment. He debated over his next words. "Trditionally we would strap you onto the prow of our ship until you were dead. However, it appears that our contact has a hypothesis on who you are, and thinks you may be useful. I disagree. However, for the time being I mayyield his advice if you ccan tell me what you can of the other Ambassadors. Appearance, personalities, flaws, the reason they are there. Anything will do. Start with yourself."


The woman whispered something to the tallest Fey, a creature in nigh black fur. "You had best come with us. My lord will explain everything." She turned to see the Baron's dead body. "He appears to have died with a smile. Few have such a luxury. We'll bring him along with us and give him a proper burial once we arrive." The next words that came from her was a strange clicking language. It was something few humans had ever heard, the native langauge of the Fey. "She turned back to the party. "Take only what you need to. The march is three days, and the pace is quick."


Marina sighed, one of the few signs that she was something beyond a blunt instrument. "They were good men, Ryan and Mikhail. They'll give the monsters of the Wilderness a good fight." She turned back to Chenzion, her eyes narrowing. "Are you concerned about Sebb?"

[RJ45]

"Alright." Remedy had made this preparation beforehand - moreso incase she had to run away from the savages. She most certainly wasn't carrying the lockbox for three days. Remedy questioned if she could carry her own weight across this barren wilderness for three days. By the end of all of this, she would hurt - but at least in the meantime she wasn't dead. However, Remedy did bring two things along that she didn't need to - the red hat of the Baron, as well as the cane-sword he used in the battle. She adjusted the sword to be fixed together as a cane again.

They will wonder what happened - 'they' being the adventurer guild. The story of the baron had come to an end, and with that she felt obligated to at least notify them of how the final chapter ended. That, however, would be spared for another time. If not for his sacrifice, then they would be dead - she figured. She turned to her companions, making sure they were ready, although there truly was no need to do such. Of course they were prepared.

Fae. Remedy didn't like the idea of being with them. Were they not wild savages that worshipped trees and stole children? However, saving her life negated anything she immediately had on her mind. In fact, she could try and ignore them the entire way to their 'lord', but she further tried to start conversation. "I've given my condensed story. Who are you and all of these people, and why were you out in the middle of these barren lands?" It hardly seemed like a coincidence. "We have three days, you know? I think we can become a little more familiar in that time."

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion tried to hide the displeasure in his face. Something between the feeling of rebuke in the Reaver's words and the fact that she revealed nothing in exchange for his words troubled him. Perhaps it was just something of the pride of a privledged upbringing, perhaps a sincere concern and worry that he had betrayed too much about himself. Regardless, what was done was done.

He paused, choosing his words carefully. He did not wish to sow distrust.

"I do not think Sebb is a traitor, if that is your meaning, but I do believe there is more to him than meets the eye. We spoke some while on the ship, and, although he said nothing much of merit, his words hinted that there was more to much than meets the eye. I wonder why this aged servant, who claims to do no more than serve tea, was sent with us on a dangerous mission. The handmaiden... the more I see her the more I wonder if they go through some sort of bio-engineering process--no offense, intended. She serves a purpose as a token presence of the Queen. The Shadow servant who was sent... well, as a Shadow, I'm sure he has his abilities. But Sebb is a mystery to me, and one that might have answers. I know a servant can hear many things, such as while serving tea."

He paused for a moment, letting the captain digest his words, then added: "Captain, I have told you much of myself and my opinions. I plan to do my appointed task, and I plan to let you do yours as I understand it. Will you tell me: is there more to your presence than a guard? And what do you think of our situation? You evaded my question as to a spy. What think you of our companions?" With a smile and obviously false friendliness, he added, "Or of me? I can take insults; I have heard plenty."

After saying that, he felt a tinge of guilt inside. Hostility rarely yielded anything, and allies if not friends were needed here. But it had been a hard day and he cared not for her earlier words.

[daelrog]

If Marina was insulted, she showed no sign. If anything, his permission for her to speak freely made her eyes glimmer. "There is nothing more to my position than to keep everyone protected to the best of my ability. The Queen was particularly insisted in her letter that you were my top priority. That is why I made sure we were in the same lifeboat, it's why I am in this room with you now. As far as our situation, we can only assume now that half of us are either dead or compromised. As there are spies, and yes, I believe there are more the one, it is almost certain that there will be another attackers, though I pray we reach the King of Honoria first. Captain Elahai is more capable than he lets on, but it does little to improve upon a damaged courier ship.

"As far as our companions, I can say with certainty that Claire is loyal, the others, including you I cannot be certain of, but my duty is to protect you all. No, I doubt we are dealing with one spy. Most liekly there is one or more displeased nobles who are using their influence to stop us. It isl ikely there may be agents on the ship, in Honoria, and perhaps even within the Queen's high court, how else could they have been ready for our departure weeks in advance?

"And as for you Chenzion d'lo Casva, I think you are a child. I think you are in over your head, and your admittal as such is refreshening, but I would prefer arrogance over incompetence. Everything about our missions reeks of politics of the most vile kind, and I am thankful every morning that I am a solider."


The savage woman barely listened. "If I knew you would talk so much, I would have waited for the Srun to finish the rest of you off. Their howling brougt us to them ten miles away. I suggest you don't make the same error."

She walked away without another word.

One of the other savage humans, a big man missing his front teeth smiled broadly. "The pack leader isn't much for strangers, Milady. Me on the other hand, well... if you'd like to bed with me, I'd be more than willing to oblige." He bowed low, gaining a loud chuckle form the Fey.

Perhaps it was going to be a long three days.

Don't worry, I plan on a time jump very soon... as in my next post

[RJ45]

Remedy's initial appraisal was the correct one. Wild, child-stealing tree worshippers. Even the humans that had lived around these creatures carried their taint, as can be seen by the blatant, uncultured offer just given to her by this savage man. Rather than replying, she shot a cold stare towards the man. Disgusting. Bearing children wasn't in her agenda for years to come - and most certainly not children of some complete stranger. She allowed the conversation to come to a rest as they moved across the dead terrain.

They were traveling a great distance. For Remedy, this was a task greater than any other. She continued with the others, motivated to continue only by the fact that everybody else was moving - but it was very, very obvious that she was weak. Her gait was sloppy. Although she didn't voice the pain she endured, it was very possible to hear her ragged breath. Her muscles burned and hurt, but she couldn't stop. She had to keep going. There was nothing left to do but ignore the pain and continue onwards.

[JeenLeen]

As Chenzion took in the Reaver captain's comments, his face became more relaxed. She was either being honest, or she was such a capable court liar that he didn't think he stood a chance in a battle of words; either way, he felt he could at least be honest with her.

"I don't see why the Queen would focus so much on me, but that does go along with how the Teth asked if I were whom he was speaking to. As for your assessment of myself, I mostly agree; although I wouldn't call myself a child, I am in over my head and politics this vile are a thing I endeavored to avoid. In my heart, I am a scientist. But I work for my nation and my family as my rank says I must; I am loyal, and I know how and when to act arrogant for my family's well-being."

After a pause, he added, "But thank you for talking to me about this. These are serious times, and I feel you are honest and aside from these politics. I am grateful for your presence here." And with a sigh, he finished: "But if you excuse me, I feel I should walk in the mire of politics and go talk to Sebb."


After any finishing remarks from Marina, Chenzion searched for the tea-bearer. Knocking at his door, he called, "Sebb, are you in? This is Chenzion. I was hoping we could talk a bit?" After initial greetings, Chenzion grows a little quiet and asks, "Sebb, you told me before you seem a simple servant of the Queen. Given recent events, can you tell me who you truly are?"

OOC: sorry for posting ahead of Marina and Sebb's initial words. As I might not post again today and don't have internet at home, I wanted to get it in before the time-hop forward. Please still give them if you wish.

[daelrog]

The old man's good eye opened up. It was as if the world shook under his gaze. "Because the Queen trusts me as she does none other. After all, I am her grandfather."


For Alice, Ryan, Mikhail, and Rajj, the journey took four days. On the second, heavy rain had slowed them down, the ground turning to slick mud. Two of the Fey had to assist Remedy, much to her chagrin.

After what had been the most trying endeavor of her life, Remedy nearly collapsed when they reached their camp. They had entered a wildwood the night before, but here at the camp the trees were cleared. Without sympathy, the pack leader, her name Marnu as the they had come to find out, led them to their lord.

Sitting on a quaint chair, raised up high so that he could see everyone, the most handsome man Remedy had ever seen sat there. His hair was ebon and smooth, and his skin had seen it fair share of sun. He held a deep concern for everyone around him, for his eyes were mournful.

"So you are the Ambassadors of War I heard so much about."

Something about him looked familiar, and Remedy couldn't put her finger on it.

"I hope your stay is comfortable, but at the moment I'm afraid you four will be my prisoners.

Why did he look so familiar?

"As you see, I am the King's brother after all, and his rival for the throne."


The Halberd landed on the docks of Gristhelm with a loud snap that made most the crew cover their ears. After two more days of traveling, they had received word that their meeting place had been changed. The capital of Honoria was just recovering from a recent siege, and the King would be arriving at Gristhelm shortly.

Now on the fourth day since the day they lost the others, all could feel at least a little bit more at ease.

Gristhelm was far larger than even the largest of cities in Avendell, though it did lack some of its grace. Everything was bent towards a war economy. As they walked the streets to the Fortress at Gristhelm, they took distinct notice that there were no beggars, there was no haggling at the markets. Guards in the livery of King Dominius Urdaeus were positioned on every corner.

This was a nation at war.

Their guide, a diplomat by the name of Chrais spoke of many things to them as the walked.

"As you may know, our benevolent King Dominius has only recently been appointed, his father having fell ill only two witners ago. As with your Queen and her early rule, we find ourselves besieged by would-be usurpers. Currently we face four others who claim the throne for themselves. The Mad Duke Viscarl, a renegade priest of Karnak, Grand Marshal Eios, and the King's younger brother.

"The King has been weary this long year-and-a-half, and I urge you to be patient with him. He is also surrounded by old, petty men who whisper lies into his ear, cause his paranoia to worsten. If only Olenna were here." He had inquired of the spymaster, surprised that the others did not know her role. She was to deal with the old addvisors one by one, eliminating any rival views within the King's court. "Still, you six are, and we shall see that we join Avendell in is valiant quest to destroy Teth."

They were led into the fortress wehre they were sat down at a grand feast, one that made the Halberd look like a trough. Nobles of all sorts as well as high ranking officers and wealthy merchants flooded the tables, the air thick with their voices. They all awaited the King's safe return.


Halleus took a bite from slab of roast boar. "Please, you must be weary of travel. I hope you understand if I ask you to sit on the ground to eat. We do not have the luxuries of a dining hall." He smiled grimly, thinking of another place.

[RJ45]

Each day she kept going on, she progressively got worse and worse. By the fourth day, she didn't feel stronger at all - if anything, she felt as if her life was coming to an end. The long journey and silence let her imagination paint what was going to happen: she would be brought to some sort of evil, dead forest where their 'lord' will be some great monstrosity that wants to feast on her heart. At least the products of this imagination helped keep her mind off of the endless pain in her legs.

Remedy finally arrived at the camp - if you could see anything of the lady left. Her clothes were soaked, slightly from the rainstorm two nights past, but moreso because she was sweating so much. Her boots were muddy. Her clothes were muddy. She wasn't groomed as properly as she should be. This is what it must be like to live as a savage. Upon arriving, there wasn't the slightest respite given. More footsteps to take on their endless journey.

Such had lead her to their lord. She was nothing short of stunned - this was exactly the opposite of what her imagination had painted him to be. She could only view for a moment before trying to lean on something - anything, or even finding a seat to collapse in. She was in no condition to negotiate anything.

"Prisoner? That's not good." The woman was beaten. The Fae need not touch her in this act - nature did all of the work for them. "I might be able to help with that - but, umm, i'd really like to discuss this in an hour or two." Remedy was not a conditioned ambassador. She sincerely wanted to continue - she wanted to know more and discuss, but her body hurt too badly. On top of that, she looked like a horrid mess before one of the most handsome men she had ever seen.

If Remedy had the energy, she would be embarrassed.

[JeenLeen]

At Sebb's revelation, a look of shock came to Chenzion's face. "M-my apologies, Your Majesty," he stammered out, rather unsure of himself. The Queen's grandfather! In a sense it gave him no rank, as it is not as if the Queen's family were royalty, but he could think of no better title to speak.

After a moment's recollection, he said to the old man, "I do apologize for my... boldness in asking the question, but I am assured, and I see why such information is not public. I'm glad to know there is someone else truthworthy on this envoyage."

---

Chenzion's relief did not last long, though. When arriving in Honoria, the signs were obvious. When he heard of the struggle, an inner gloom entered his mind.

He had the Queen's authorized trade, but such might not be necessary if the young King needed their help. But more land could substantiate the new King's claim with nobles who could be bribed. ...if the King arrived.

Yes, Chenzion would have much to think about. He began to design some weapon designs and work on other military concepts during their wait; at least he could have something useful to offer.

[daelrog]

Halleus waved them off in a friendly manner. His smile was beaming, though one could only wonder if it was them, or the hunting party returning that brought his good mood. "Rest, bathe, and I'll see to it that you're given a good meal. It may not be much for taste, but it will restore your energy."

"Marnu, if you would be so kind as to guide the girl, and if you men would take care of the others... I want twice as many with the Shadow. Please take no offense, if anthing, it is a sign of respect."

Strangely, it was not Mihkail, but Rajj whom Halleus spoke of.

"No offense taken." His voice was cold and raspy, the first time Remedy had heard him speak. Whatever his role was as a servant, it was not from having a kind voice.


Diplomat Chrais Velsrik was a man of many words. With wide gestures, even wider with drink he pointed out many in the crowd. The Guildlord of Fisheries was old enough to be the grandfather of the serving girl he gazed at. The Mistress Aluclaire was a beauty on the outside, but a vindictve woman within. General Ostreb was man of few words who kept his private life private, something that seemed a sin to Chrais. However, the four ancient old men who sat, two on each side of Dominius's empty chair, remained untouched. Apparently, even the talkative sympathizer knew that some things were best unspoken of in crowds.

Garret seemed bored, even sad as he stirred his soup, thinking of his home, stuck in this dreary place. It was nigh the opposite of Claire and Marina, their eyes darting all around the room. Not even the Alter could see everyone at once, a precarious situation that most security heads faced sooner or later. Only Aurora seemed as ease, talking to the young Duke Fildemoor Stasf. He was compeltely struck by her, and Chenzion had to admire the way she stayed polite, even friendly, yet still keeping him at bay.


Remedy found herself in a warm tub, within a tent. Marnu appeared impatient, tapping her feet, but remaining quiet nevertheless.

The water seemed to suck the pain away.

[RJ45]

This sensation was unlike any other. After bearing such a terrible curse for so many days, Remedy just wanted to lay in the bath forever. She scrubbed herself, enjoying the cleanliness after the infinite journey, but moreso enjoying massaging her legs. Marnu bothered her. Of course, it had something to do with her being Fae, but even moreso that she didn't want conversation. Saving her life was a bother, evidently. The truth, however, was that Remedy didn't particularly care at the moment. Her body didn't hurt too badly anymore. With such a leisurely approach to bathing, she spent quite longer than she should have in that water. Afterwards, she spent a moment carefully unpacking her dress and other clothes, giving them a thorough washing. There would be no point in getting clean to put on muddy clothes.

She groomed herself to the best of her ability. Before she knew it, she resembled herself from a week ago. Somewhat. Dinner was wonderful, perhaps even better than that on the Halberd before it crashed and killed everyone on board. It was definitely the fact that she escaped death that added the particular greatness to the meal. That, and that the food along the way here left a lot to be desired.

It was now that, with her vigor partially restored, she felt up to her next challenge: learning of this place. While Remedy didn't particularly enjoy being in the company of the Fae, and didn't particularly enjoy being a 'prisoner' (if she could be called such a thing), her goal wasn't to immediately forget about this place. If anything, it added more to her expanding list of revenges to seek and tributes to pay. They saved her life. She could at least hear them out. Besides, if there was truly something she could do about it, and this king agreed with her position on the Teth, perhaps this could lead to a brighter future for all.

After all, the current king... well, only time would tell what would happen to him.

"Marnu, when is the next time I can meet with your lord? I suppose he would be busy at the moment, right?" Honestly, in either case, Remedy is the victor. A day of rest? Wonderful. Meeting with him now? Even better.

[daelrog]

Marnu blew a strand of hair away from her face. When they had returned she had taken off the knot in her hair, letting it fall down. Deep down Remedy could feel that instinctual disliking between women, that feeling that merely the way she held herself up, or the way her figure was just a bit too well proportioned was a sin. "You can see him at any time you wish tonight." She did not move from her place, apparently there was more that she wanted to say. The wild human was something that was nigh blasphemous to someone like Alice. Humans wre supposed to be clean and civilized. Why a human would choose to meek out a living in the Wildernesses was beyond what Remedy could imagine. Why the brother of the King would associate with them she did not know.

Without another word, she motioned for Alice to follow. Before Remedy could say anything, she was out of sight. It took Remedy a few seconds to catch up.

Halleus was waiting, Ryan and Mihkail were also there, sitting attentively.

"Looks like you were right, she did want to speak with you." She passed by him, her hand brushing his shoulder. "I'll take my leave of you and refresh myself if there is nothing else."

Halleus smiled. "Of course not Marnu." As the wild woman walked away, Halleus's gaze lingered for a moment longer before turning back to Remedy. "Now then, what would you like to speak of, prisoner?" Somehow, the word prisoner was jokingly added, that although true, held no ill intent or threat. He may as well have just called her friend.

[RJ45]

Prisoner. Joking or not, Remedy didn't particularly like that title. Not that she could speak up against it. "Quite a bit. Who are you, and why are you here in these dead, unliving lands? It doesn't seem like you could do much about that throne from such a distance. Then again, you probably can't solve this kind of issue over tea and dinner. I'd like to know your position in this."

Remedy was feeling remarkably better. Her muscles still hurt, but nothing unbearable. Despite the seriousness of their conversation, she seemed relaxed. Perhaps there was a particular way Remedy was supposed acting, but Remedy didn't particularly care for it. If anything, she seemed all too ordinary. It didn't match with the words that followed.

"You know that I am an Ambassador of War, then. I'm here to see the possibilities of our kingdoms working together to seal away the Teth by taking the islands between them and us. The Teth are nothing but trouble, and the sooner we take those islands, the better for us all. Still, that's not a priority if Honoria is having its own problems."

[daelrog]

At her last remark Halleus started to laugh, but quickly stopped himself, trying to keep some form of decorum. "Teth is trouble you say? I find that interesting considering that it is Avendell, not Teth, that is trying to drag my people into this war. Perhaps it's because we do not share a border, but I assure you that we have much more to fear from you than them. How long do you think it would take her Queen to turn eastward after her western border was secure?"

He paused, sipping a brightly colored drink.

"As for me my yound lady, as I said I am Halleus Urdaeus, younger brother to our current King, Dominius. I am trying to usurp him." There was no smile left on his face, and he was obviously not nejoying the subject matter. "My brother is incompetent. He will lead our country to ruin. The fact that he is even humoring Fiorza by accepting you Ambassadors if proof enough without even knowing him.

"Currently there are four of us trying to take the corwn away from Dominius, another sign of his weakness. If we fought together, my brother would be dead in a week. Unfortuantely, we have as many issues with one another as wtih Dominius, and thus he has the advantage, thus why we reside in this place here.

"I would suggest to you though that this place is far from lifeless. The trees, the Fey, the wild humans, the beast races, the flowers. If anything, this place is far more charming than the capital.

"Regardless, you have come here to drag my people into another war, one that would see Avendell become an unmatched power in the world. Dominius may share some of his racial beliefs with the Queen, but I assure my dear that I see no difference between human or Beserker, between you and anyone else who would see this kingdom to ruin.

"Unfortunately as it stands my brother will most likely win this war. The only dissident who may have allied with me was Eios, and last I heard he was marching on the capital. The fool. Still, if there is a chance to put his head on a pike, I will take it. Afterwards, I will dismiss you Ambassadors and focus and restoring our prosperity. You will not have an ally in me, Remedy, not unless you're willing to change your goals."

[RJ45]

Remedy was disgusted. She didn't allow it to show, but this man showed his true face to her. He liked this terrain. He liked the Fae. He liked the beasts. He failed to notice the most important thing: these lands are human lands, forming a human world. There is no room for Teth, not anywhere but under the boot of a human - and here he suggested befriending those beasts.

"I doubt Avendell would turn so quickly on their ally after defeating a foe with their combined efforts. This isn't only about securing the future of the Teth - those islands hold riches both nations will benefit from having. Both." She stressed this point. "But, let's change the topic. Changing goals. That's possible. What would you suggest, then? At heart, I want both nations to have peace and prosperity for years to come. If you believe that Avendell and Honoria will fight afterwards, then that peace won't come true - an even better reason to change goals." A prosperity for Humans and Alters, but also for Shadows and Cloudkin - this, of course, she didn't say.

At heart, however, Remedy had a bit of a problem. She disagreed with this person. On the contrary, because of his existence here, she is alive. She didn't feel comfortable writing this man off as worthless. She would at least pay heed to his suggestions, as absolutely ridiculous as they were.

"You mentioned that after his removal from the crown, you would dismiss me. Would that mean that you have a particular use for me at the moment?"

[daelrog]

Halleus tilted his head back. "To be honest, it's not your use to me that makes it necessary to keep you around, it's your use to my brother. Perhaps though..." He sat thinking. It took him a good twenty seconds before he let his thought run all the way through. "I am going to apologize to you ahead of time for what I'm going to do to you." He paused again, thsi time for only ten seconds, not particualrly empathetic at making the poor girl wait for whatever he had in store for her. "I am going to show you the human world for what it really is. I will show you the fate of our two nations under Fiorza and my brother. After which I will tell you to look me in the eye and continue to spout your propaganda. After which I will release you, so that you may tell your other Ambassadors what it is you are doing."

[RJ45]

Something about those words didn't fit right. Remedy's previously comfortable position seemed to change slightly. Nervous. "... You're not going to torture me, are you?" His words didn't sound right. Apologies for things that hadn't yet happened. 'Showing' her things. She glanced around the room for anyone that might try and snag her. She had more to ask, especially about what she was to 'be shown' - but it didn't come out. If she tried to run, she wouldn't make it. If she tried to fight, she would lose. The entire village she was in was full of monsters that resembled humans. There was only one thing to do - see this thing that would so greatly change her perspective, and pray that it wasn't torture.

[daelrog]

Halleus burst in laughter, and very jovial sound, and Remedy had the chance to see one of royal blood vent out his frustration through humor. "No, I am not going to torture you, at least not in the way you're thinking about. No, instead I'll show you what goes on behind the scenes of your beloved human run society. I'll lift the veil of propaganda you treat as truth, and after witnessing first hand the depravity you think so highly of, you may think twice about whether my friends here are the real savages."

He gestured with his hand, making it known that the line of conversation was over. "So long as you don't make trouble, no one will lay a hand on you. As much as I'd like to end the night on such a happy note, there is one more piece of business to take care of. Marnu promised your fallen comrade a proper burial. We'll take care of it right now unless you hold any objections, though I would know who he was."

[RJ45]

Remedy was relieved by the fact that she wouldn't be tortured. She's grown an appreciation for her eyes, ears, legs, arms, and other limbs. "No objections. He died fighting their leader for a few short moments. Those short moments probably saved our lives before your people arrived and saved us. When I return to Avendell, as distant as that is, I have to pay the adventurer's guild a visit. There are novels about the adventures he has completed, and I think those novels deserve to have the final chapter."

Somehow, he knew her feelings about the people of these lands. But he had put it in a more serious tone than she had hoped. She might think that, but she wouldn't say it to their faces. "Well, I'm not some stonewall that will deny something that you have to show. I'll look forward to this 'unveiling'. In the meantime, however, burial."

[daelrog]

The burial was solemn, Halleus's cheerful demeanor fled when he had learned who the man being put to grave had been. Those closest to him exchanged glances, knowing something that Remedy did not, not until he spoke at last, as the first shovels of dirt were tossed over onto his still, plae body.

"When Dominius and I were children, we would reenact his adventures." His eyes glazed over as the past pushed away the present, if only for a moment. "That bastard always had to be the Baron, being the older there was nothing I could do. One thousand, two thousand times this man slew me. Sometimes I was abndti lord, sometimes I was every bandit in his army, sometimes I was a demon, and once I was his eil twin- we made that one up ourselves.

"Your Queen understands my brother more than I thought. If she could get his childhood hero to persuade him, I loathe to think what else she might try. I never asked you what your angle was in all of this." For the moment he wasn't asking Remedy to divulge who she was, but he did let her know that he had not forgotten.

"We leave tomorrow for the Pale Wasteland. Get some rest, it will be a full day's march."

He walked away, looking the defeated man. Remedy knew that in truth, the Baron had been his childhood hero as well, the untouchable dream to be the man that now lay dead. Remedy watched with no little curiosity as Marnu wrapped her arms around Halleus's shoulder in concern as they left the remainder of the burial to a pair of Fey.


A horn blared, all conversation stopping immediately. The dining hall now seemed much larger as not even the drunkest of the guests dared to even touch their cuttery.

King Dominius Urdaeus was in the great hall only moments later, surrounded by a small party of Blue Caps, the elite of Honoria. As their name suggested, each had a blue hat, floppy and wide to cover their ears and backs. The rest of their bodies was covered in dark green, close-fitting armor. They were all humans, but of all sizes, and both genders.

Dominius himself looked a veteran in his own right. His eyes were hostile as he glared at all the petty nobles and aristocrats, laughing and mocking after he had just won another great victory. Soon, all eyes were own the old, dirty bag he carried in his left hand. Once he made his way to the front, he pulled out a severed head with his right hand, tossing it onto the nearest table.

"Grand Marshal Eios is dead, and his supporters have been routed. Now there are only three who dispute my rule." He looked over, seeing that his audience was still aprehensive, unsure whether to applaud or not. This seemed to be okay with the King. "I see that our guests from Avendell have arrived, here to drag us into yet anotehr war once we solve this one. Make sure they feel welcome in our borders. We'd hate to offend our good neighbors to the west. See me tomorrow morning.

"I apologize if I interrupted you revelry. Please, continue to eat and drink and be merry in these times." Without another word, he was heading back towards the door. This King was not loved, but he was feared.

[RJ45]

The mass of dirt that was previously in the ground was piled upon that very corpse. Despite the sorrow everyone else was holding, Remedy remained silent and watched on. Anger. It's important to know why this man died - he died because of the Teth. Somehow, Remedy felt a sense of obligation. He would be avenged. This wouldn't be permitted to happen again.

"Damn. That must hurt, to picture someone as immortal for so long, to years later find them dead. But we're all mortal." Everyone would die. They had no say in it. "Everyone has a person like that." Like her father. Even now, she pictured him sitting at a round table, legs propped up on a table as he sipped on the most expensive drinks you can find in all of Avendell, every so often telling someone what to do. Of course, that would be a dynamic change in position since she last met him, but it was more or less the 'image' she had of him. It most likely wasn't completely true. Completely. He was growing in power.

He mentioned his suspicion of her. If only he knew. It's odd how the fate of a kingdom can be so oddly twisted by something so small, and yet four factions can do nothing against Honoria. She didn't mention a word of it as the two parted. She was more concerned about the 'march' that was to occur. A full day. Remedy had her fill of walking for her lifetime. In coming hours, she had dinner and found herself sitting in bed. Smoking. Thinking about what would happen the next day. Evidently this 'unveiling' was of more importance than her personal enlightenment - otherwise they wouldn't be traveling together.

After she was done, she tucked herself into the unfamiliar bed and tried to get some rest. Tomorrow was going to be a long day.

[JeenLeen]

While waiting for the King's return--if he returned; after all, war could lead to many roads--Chenzion talked to a few of the nobles. As expected, most were reserved. After a few conversations, if they could be called such, Chenzion purposely remained only on shallow subjects. The nobles would likely get more out of him than he of they if the subtle battle of words were met. He especially avoided the four elders near the king's throne.

When the king arrived, Chenzion was at first heartened. Things were going according to plan. When he saw that a rival was defeated, he acknowledged that as good, but the way the king presented his victory told much. He showed his power through conquest and war, a bloody presentation, and the people did not like him. One could rule by fear, but when one had rivals, that was dangerous.

Wishing Olenna were here--a suprising thought!--he returned to the feast, trying to overhear whatever hushed rumors might give him an idea to the political setting.

With a silent groan, Chenzion approached the one who appeared host, Chrais Velsrik, and said quietly but not in a suspicion-drawing whisper, "Are the honored ones near the throne advisors to the king?" Does he keep friends close or enemies closer?

[daelrog]

Right, so I typed everything out, then my internet went down and I lost it. :smallannoyed: Will have some stuff up a little later today

Also, hopefully you can all see the role I was going to have for Falconer's character, a hero stuck between two boys (albeit two potential rulers of a nation) who looked up to him as their hero. Pity he dropped.

[daelrog]

"Come on, everyone up! We're burning daylight!"

It was still dark outside.

Remedy found no humor in it.

Halleus banged on her tent doors with a stick, or sword, or something that caused a loud banging. "Come on my lovely prisoner, we have a long day ahead of us. No time for a nap."

Halleus walked over and began relaying orders for the march for the day. He was in a much better mood today, last night had revitalized him. He every bit of the charismatic, energetic, too energetic by Remedy's accound, leader.


Two hours later, as the first sliver of sun was about to hit the horizon, the six Ambassadors in Gristhelm were led into the Duke of Gristhelm's chamber, which had been acquisitioned by Dominius. He was laready sitting there, waiting for them, his four advisors flanking his sides. Without proper introduction, or eitquette, he began.

"We are in the midst of a civil war, and therefore at thsi time cannot offer any assistance to Avendell." He paused for a moment, as if hoping they would react. "However, once I have quelled the remaining three usurpers, we will still be in a precarious situation. No doubt these rebellions will sap even more resources than it already has, and by the ned of it, we will still have to deal with our enemies, the Sraiks Empire, and the Sanctum Hold.

"For five generations our rival to the southwest have slowly been gaining ground into our ancestral lands. Every time we take land back, they push us even further before wtih a counterattack. Every time they take more ground from us, any attempt to reclaim it has been met with failure. The last such fight was with my grandfather when he lost two hundred square miles on our border, losing five thousand men and women in service.

"The Sanctum Hold however, is the worst of all the threats. Alters have dared to form their own nation," the last word was sarcastic, "in light of what they feel is their right from birth. Thousands of servants and slaves have deserted their masters and betters, leaving Honoria stripped of much of its manpower. They need to be made an example of, but for now all we can do is watch as they build their defenses stronger and stronger as we are busy dealing with other threats.

"What does the Queen offer in light of our woes?"


Within ten minutes, Remedy was out of the tent, thought she would have preferred a full hour to get ready. There were no signs a camp had been there, save for the prints on the ground, which were already being swept away.

"We have half a day to reach our destination. Come, I'm sure there is much you'd like to discuss."

[RJ45]

How she had risen from bed within ten minutes was a wonder. The noise of something hitting her tent stirred her up enough to realize she wasn't at home. That much was painfully obvious: the bed wasn't as soft and the blankets weren't as thick. Without anything more comfortable to dress into, she ended up sleeping in her clothes that night, probably because she didn't trust these savages. Better safe than sorry. The idea of bugs and other small critters wasn't thrilling either.

They had started moving. Her legs didn't hurt nearly as bad as before. That didn't mean that Remedy enjoyed the half-day walk, that meant that it was tolerable. Cranky because she hadn't had a full hour to wake up, Remedy was puffing away at a cigarette while moving. "Marnu gets pissed off when I talk and walk, but sure, fine. Where are we going? What are we doing there?"

By now, "Marnu", who had become her friend the moment she saved her, was more of a nuisance. First, Marnu hadn't done anything resembling friendly to her since that moment. Second, she's proven herself as a wild Fae. Third, she's a -beautiful- Fae. That lowered her chances - but of course, that was unimportant. Chances with who? Some savage? Halleus? Pff. There was nothing there. Like all other leaders, he doesn't seem to do anything. He just commanded these people, Fae and... other 'things'.

"Who are the other groups fighting for control of the throne? There has to be a pretty big difference between all of you if you're willing to fight Honoria and eachother all at the same time. If even one of you could put your differences aside, you'd have an advantage."

[Sinistral]

Olenna smiled faintly in response to Maurzhul's inquiry. Subtly wasn't really his strong suit. She wasn’t sure if he was just trying to indimate her, or if he really wanted to carry out on his threat. Either way, she had no intention of giving him such valuable information this early. Though she rarely got her hands duty, she had been on the other side of the table enough times to know that once she gave Maurzhul what he wanted, her usefulness would end. And once she ceased to be of use, Maurzhul would kill her. She was sure of that. Which led her back to her original plan. Stall. And maybe try to get some information herself, to be used in the off chance she survived.

“I don’t think so. I’m not just going to give you information. A trade, however, I might consider. If you were to, let’s say, tell me the identity of the traitor who’s giving you your information, I might tell you which Ambassador would be most receptive to your cause of stopping the war. We both know you’re going to kill me as soon as you’re finished with me anyway, so it’s not as if you lose anything. I‘m just curious to see if my suspicions are correct.”


OOC: I have family visiting, so my computer time has been limited, and will be limited until the end of the week. Sorry about my inactivity.

[daelrog]

"Marnu gets upset when you talk and walk?!" He jokingly through his armsover his shoulders as if shuddering from something cold. This man was a jester. "Don't worry, few of the fell beasts travel the route we're going. I'm sure Marnu will open up to you. She's a hard woman to win over, but oceyou do..." He let the thought tailed off, remembering he other query. "As far as my other rivals, we have an old, washed up officer that doesn't distinguish between my brother and I, a fanatical priest of Karnak, and a bloodthirsty Duke that was declaring the end of our line as soon as my father fell ill. No, I've tried to reason with them, only the Grand Marshal shows any signs of promise.

"And you ask too many questions. Where are we going? What will we do there? You'll see soon enough."


Maurzhul was not enjoying the moment. "You misunderstand completely. When I spoke to my ally about you, he knew who you were by your description, and the actions you took. You are the Queen's spy master, a woman who twice has had her life taken from her by Avendell. You are an Alter, and therefore held in contempt by your countrymen, and no matter how many good deeds you do for your Queen, you will never be allowed a position above being a tool, a tool to be used and cast aside as a whim.

"If I wanted to trade for your ifnormation, I'd bargain with your fingers and my knife. No, you are the one we can turn to our cause, because you have nothing to gain from following the Queen. Now then, I will ask two questions. What will it take for you to betray the other Ambassadors, and what can you tell me of the other Ambassadors?"

No worries. The three of you can go at whatever pace works for you. Since the three of you are split up right now, it works perfect that way. I suppose in that way, it's not so bad we lost 2-3 of the party. Of course, my original idea was to have more than one with Halleus, and with Dominius so that you could interact with each other as well, but I think things are just as fien this way (and of course, I never expected Olenna to be where she is, so let's see how that turns out:smallsmile:)

[JeenLeen]

As the King began his speech, Chenzion realized with lament that he was the only one here suited to reply to whatever the King said. It became clear that Marina, as an Alter, would be tolerated but should not speak. The others, with the possible exception of Sebb, were not of a noble status and thus likely would not be welcome to speak. Well, Father and Mother had tried to train him; maybe the gods would grant him skill.

With a bow, Chenzion replied, "Your Highness, forgive me if I repeat to you somewhat of things you are already aware. A unified alliance of Honoria and Avendell will make both our nations stronger and present an intimidating force to our enemies. The two islands of Nostrum and Bendelenandria, which we hope to seize and which the Queen has informed me Teth will soon seize, are said to be the two souls of the world, lands where any crop may grow and where temples to all the gods reside, as well as rumors of more mystic importance. If the Berzerkers seize them, I do not think it long before they turn their sights against we humans."

Chenzion repressed the feelings of hypocrisy at using such racism, but one used the tools at hand. He continued with what he hoped was a rhetorical pause.

"I understand that the current situation, both internal and with the Sraiks Empire and the rogue grouping calling itself Sanctum Hold, has your resources pressed. However, with Honoria backing you as the true ruler, rebellious factions may see the light and your worth as King. Furthermore, alliance with Honoria will bring resources to your side. Our Queen has authorized me to offer you the Westwile Lowlands in exchange for your assistance, and I imagine further resources could be negotiated as well. Furthermore, I have made many advancements to Avendell's military and other technology of late; I would be honored to offer the same to Honoria. Avendell wishes to join together to frighten the Teth; let Honoria join with us to do to the same to Sraiks. And if Sanctum Hold is now fortifying, let us do the same together and consolidate your power, Your Higness."

Internally, Chenzion was a mix of self-digust at his racist remarks and tenuous hope that his word-smithing was adequate. Externally, he held, or thought he held, the calm focus he would at his lab. 'For House Casva', he thought, with a prayer to the gods.

[RJ45]

Building a relationship with that fae wasn't in any of her nearby plans. For now, her immediate plan was 'follow Halleus and hope it's not a trap'. "Looks like everyone wants a piece of Avendell" she replied. Over the course of the journey, Remedy gave thought to trying to become a queen herself. That would be nice - she would definitely show up her father that way, by presenting to him her own castle. Unfortunately, gathering the support to grasp such a high seat would be almost impossible, and even then being a queen wouldn't be the life of leisure she had hoped for.

"Fine. Curiosity, that's all." This was supposed to be life-changing. It was supposed to change her opinions on these savages. Remedy can't help but think that something truly terrible lies ahead.

[daelrog]

Major props to JeenLeen for nailing everything down perfectly.

Dominius nodded. "It is not a bad opening trade. The Lowlands could be useful, not nearly as much as the two souls of the world of course..." His words trailed off as he stopped. He was no longer the paranoid, ruthless warlord he had seemed, but young, inquisitive mind as he played with what Chenzion had said. "You people from Avendell truly do hate the Bezerkers. It makes my own feelings towards my pale in comparison.

"Prove to me your claims Ambassador. Prove that the rebellious factions may see the error of their ways, prove that Avendell's backing can stem the Sraiks Empire, and show me your military technologies. I will also take the Lowlands as well as a fourth of the land of the islands you seek. If seventy-five percent of the world's most valuable land is not enough for your Queen, then I know I will be dealing with an enemy, not a friend. I want to hear back from you by the end of the day."

You may send a communication of the terms through the Halberd

After almost eleven hours of on and off marching, they arrived at their destination, the Pale Wasteland. fter clearing the second small wildwood of the day, they found the terrible place where dreams did not exist.

Its name derived from the dismal grey-whte landscape, flat and wide. It spanned as far as Remedy could see, a low hanging mist of dust and smog failing to cover what was going on.

Even from this far, they could see hundreds of slaves moving around the surface, most likely thousands in the man-made pits below. Above the scene floated a warship from Avendell. "A treaty about two hundred years ago gave allowances for Avendell to use this area as a prison. Since the wildernesses around your cities are mostly forests and swamps, you needed to find another place to put your malcontents. This was the perfect place. Honoria is rich with the salts that go in most of your preservatives and foods, and the decrease in tariffs more than compensates Honoria for a land it does not need."

He paused, knowing that this was not sufficient of an explanation. "When I first came to this place, I felt it justice. Since they broke your laws, why not make them work off their debt to society. When I questioned the slaves, I caught a glimpse of what our nations run upon. Come, we still have another hours walk before we reach the pits."

[RJ45]

The walk was nowhere near as treacherous as it was before. After so many hours, Remedy only had a couple complaints. Still, there were recurring desires for a nice, soft chair with a comfortable place to kick up her legs and relax. Too bad. She wouldn't be seeing something like that for a while.

"Yeah. That's sort of my first impression as well." she replied. This was a just punishment, although she couldn't yet understand why they were 'slaves' rather than 'prisoners' - this area was dead. It would be a miracle if the ground held any minerals worth going after. Even if they could escape, where would they go? There couldn't have been anything edible for miles. Remedy took a moment when they paused to look at the soil. She wondered how the soil could have possibly become so barren for such a distance.

Something bothered her about this. Not so much about them being out here and slaving away here, but the presence. It made her wonder about the black market and its affiliates. One thought in particular stood out. "The Queen knows what I do. Why am I not here? What about everyone else?" There were much greater evils than her, evils that she's shared cards and liquor over. Something here didn't match up...

"Those slaves aren't all criminals, are they?"

[daelrog]

"Very perceptive of you Remedy. The world runs upon language. All of them are criminals because society has labeled them as such. Because society has labeled them as such, the vast majority of people don't even bother to bat an eyelid. After all criminals belong in prison where they will atone. We good citizens have nothing to fear because we are not criminals." He emphasized several words, trying to break them down to their very frames.

Within a short time they were passing people, msotly human and alter males. They were clothes in little more than rags despite th chilling breeze they swept across the doslate plain. A guard in Avendell colors stepped foward.

"Ah, Gilran, how goes it? The usual payment is with Sthellinal and Roshris."

The guard nodded stiffly.

Halleus leaned over towards Alice. "Bribes. We pluck some of the local fruits in the Wildernesses. They go for quite a high price in the black market. We give them the fruits, and they let us pass by, sometimes even holding out inside the pit without telling their superiors. It would be a shame if rumor spread from one person to another until Dominius himself knew where we were."

As they started to descend into the pit, Remedy was filled with the smell of sweat and metal. The temperature was rising quickly. They stepped onto a platform, and below, stretching ofr over a mile, thosuands toiled. It was not hell, but it wasn't a far cry away either.

"The lifetime criminals of Avendell. Murderers, thieves, smugglers, petty offenders wh won't be missed, rebels from the years Fiorza had bested and not killed, along with their entire families. Vagrants, political dissentors, members oth lower class at the wrong time in the wrong place. A few soldiers who failed in their duty, a small amount of homeless to help ease off the economic burden, and even a person or two who faltered into a state secret.

"Your people call them criminals, not even knowing that it's my country, not yours, that holds them. I call them slaves, because I think the title is more befitting."

[RJ45]

Remedy isn't left speechless. Things like this happen - if anything, they were lucky. Lucky they weren't put to the sword... or unlucky, depending who you ask. Conditions became worse as they delved deeper into the pit. If demons existed, they would be at the bottom of these pits. Other demons, that is. The Teth are already demons.

It's the men that bother her. They were barely clothed in rags. They might as well work without anything on, because their clothes wouldn't be doing much. How they could keep working in these conditions was beyond her. Not a single person had even the slightest bit of fat on them - unless you counted the guards. "They'd have to eat the fruit here though, or else it would crisp." There might have been some truth in that, she vaguely recalls some knowledge of the fruits - although, if the black market had direct contact here, that might be a simplified way out of the situation she is in... she would definitely have to keep this little bit of information for her father. It would do him well.

"Damn, it's hot down here..." she complained, looking all around. The sweat on her body was different from that of the long treks she had been on - this sweat was because she was baking in her own skin. Taking it in. She thought about this, trying to pass her own judgement on the situation."Look at all of these people. Most of them criminals, others innocents who were unlucky enough to get sent here. Still, what is the ratio here? Is it alright to let one innocent die if fifteen go with him? What exactly are they doing here, anyways? They have to be doing something - smithing? Refining of some sort? I think..." Remedy tried to bring reason into this. Logic. Justification. She tried, but her feelings got in the way. These were Humans and Alters - not Teth, Fae, or other savages. She could be one of them if the queen decided it. Remedy wanted to dismiss this as a better alternative to execution or imprisonment. Remedy bit her lip. It was too obvious.

"This is wrong. But what can be done? Honoria is fighting it's own internal war. Fixing this can't be done overnight." She had whispered, but it was easy to figure out that this angered her.

[daelrog]

Halleus smiled at her remark, but it was a grim smile, the scene around them taking away his humor. "No, few things can be done overnight. We'll stay here for the day. Tomorrow, we meet with our contact." He turned to Remedy. "The greatest sin of our kingdoms is that they see the problems of our society, and run. Even those who think such a place like this is justified follow their own peverse logic. Those who understand there is a problem and do nothing... I have no sympathy for such people." He turned away from her. "If you think this is the eye opening experience I spoke of, think again. Enjoy your time in this god forsaken oven, because tomorrow I'll open up a little more of what this world truly is."

He walked over to Marnu, and both departed off to a sdie tunnel along with a few others.

By now, most of the small army of a few dozen were spread out through the pit, each group having thier own place. THeo thers, Ryan, Mikhail, and Rajj were already gone. Rajj had been kept under close scrutiny the whole time, and the two Reaves were making the most of their time and speaking with the rebel soldiers of Honoria. Still behind was a young, demale fay, her horns barely just popping out from her crown. "Halleus told me to be at you disposal if you need anything." She kcicked at a small stone on the ground and put her arms behind her back, as if nervous.

[RJ45]

She muttered some curses as she tried to relax, failing time and time again. It's the damned heat. "If I wanted to live in a volcano, I would." She fanned herself. It didn't do anything other than blow hot air in her face. Remedy wanted to relax. Between the heat and the fact that people were suffering such a short distance away, she had to come up with another plan. There were questions unanswered. "I'm going to go look around." she notified the Fae.

There are criminals here. Criminals that had lost everything. Criminals that hadn't had female company in quite some time. However, Remedy wasn't frightened. She's been in the company of worse. Slave traders. Slave trainers. People who specialized in torturing the secrets out of people - in truth, she had actually recieved a few tips from a friend of hers on the matter. Such allows her to continue forward. The first thing she tries to figure out is what they are doing down here - they were clearly working, not merely being prisoners. But on what? What were they building? Was there hidden treasures to be found under the dead ground? Why was it so hot?

The second thing she tried to do was to find an affiliate. Someone from the black market, especially if it were someone she might know personally. She was curious of their direct influence here.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion brightened at seeing the inquisitive side of the ruler. As the King... accepted the terms, he saw hope even as he felt more digust at how much he 'hated' the Berzerkers.

Bowing, Chenzion replied, "Thank you, Your Highness. I will, of course, have to consult with Her Majesty before making agreement about the islands, but I do so with earnest hope for our alliance. As for the technologies, while waiting for your arrival I have already to begin some notes; given access to a lab and some subordinates or clerks whom I can speak it, I should be able to share much. For your rivals, I have high hopes that once these two gifts are given, they will see that you are not to be challenged."

With the King's dimissal and the formalities that follow, Chenzion left the room. Once outside, he said to the others, trying to sound casual while at the same time showing he was serious, "I imagine it would be well for us to contact the Queen together. I wouldn't mind hearing your thoughts before contacting her, too."

Once in the relative safety and supposed privacy of the ship, Chenzion asked to talk to the other ambassadors in a meeting room. Taking out his bug-scrambler, he said to them, and looking more at Sebb and Aurora than the others, "I think things are going well so far. However, we all received our individual orders from Her Majesty. I am not asking you what your orders were, but we are in this together. Do any of you have any insights or objections to the King's terms?"

He almost told them that he did not share the opinions he stated about the Alters and Berzerkers, but decided that was more dangerous than being thought a normal Avendell racist.

[daelrog]

Marina was the first to answer Chenzion. "I think the King on Honoria thinks you won't be able to live up to your promise. I can't see any other reason why he would agree so easily."

Sebb nodded, a thoughtful look on his wrinkled face. "Well, if our good Ambassador proves him wrong, we will have to see whether the King is of the same mind." Sebb gave a wink at de lo Casva that the other couldn't see. "I think the Queen will accept the terms, though I do wonder myself, how will you get started dealing with the rebels?"


Remedy could see very quickly what they were doing. They were mining. Minerals of all sorts were loaded into large caverns where the young, old, and sickly could sort through them and make sure they were all going towards the right direction. The guards were armed with clubs and rifles, though Remedy could tell that no sign of force had been used recently. They didn't need to, here in the middle of nowhere where could the prisoners go?

In about twnety minutes of exploring she found a familiar face, Black Jack. She remembered him a few years ago as an occasional partner of her fathers. The man normally dress from head to toe in black, hence his name, and though he was mildly handsome, in a roguish way, his don't F with me attitude and a number of scars were a severe turn off. He appeared only lightly clothed now in the heat, but she could tell he was on business. He strummed his fingers on an electornic notepad, either ignoring her, and not knowing she was there.

I'll be in and out for the next week or so. Family is coming to town so that'll take priority. As of now, the mission is set for you. In order to win Honoria over, you must destroy/persuade the three remaining rival factions to kneel to the King as well as stem the threat of both Sraiks and the Sanctum Hold. Of course, while this happens Maurzhul will be about as well as factions from both Avndell and Honoria who wish to stop you. However, we're already well into the story, and at this rate, we should be finished before winter, or not too long thereafter!

[JeenLeen]

At hearing those remarks, Chenzion showed a moment of displeasure, then regains his composure and replied, "Well, yes. At the moment I am mostly concerned about the Queen's displeasure at his asking for parts of the islands. As for the rebels, my claim to the King was that I imagined they would see the reason for his rule once his resources increased. ...although I suppose implicit offers have to be fulfilled as well as explicit. My main ideas to deter the rebels, at the moment, are to try to inform the public of the wealth the King is gaining for Honoria, as well as hoping to give him some edge in military technology. Thank you for your thoughts."

He looked at the other ambassadors with him. "Do you have any suggestion or opinion. We all are in this together, and, if I am speaking for us, I want to make sure I have everyone's input." Some might have noticed that he almost said more; he truly wished to apologize for his remarks, especially against the Alters at Sanctum Hold.

[daelrog]

If Marina had been offended by his comments, she did not show it. Of those that remained, Marina and Sebb had said their peace, Claire's duty was a soldier's not a thinker's, and Aurora, whatever her role, was not to give opinions, if she could even muster one.

The only one that remained was Garret, who seemed far more displeased than the others. "Do you think Honoria is better off under Dominius?" As soon as the words spilled out, he waved it off immediately, finding his nationalism again. "Maybe we need to find out why three factions are resisting the King's rule. If they haven't allied with each other yet, chances are each one has their own set of problems.

"About five years ago when I was working in a miliatry hospital, back when Queen Fiorza was dealing with her own political enemies, I heard an interesting story from one of the soldiers. They had just finished the campaign in the southern provinces, and had finished cleaning out the remainder of Baron Duchelle's army as well as the Cult of the Sun. They said that the two sides did more damage to each other, than what the loyalists did, even to the last, both surrounded and outnumbered, they could not fight alongside each other. The Cult of the Sun believed the world was going to be reborn, and that all the old order would be erased, not just the Queen. Baron Duchelle just wanted power. When he approached the cultists, they killed him and his second on site, setting off a battle that saw both sides vulnerable to the final attack by Fiorza's men.

"What I'm trying to say Chenzion is that not everyone thinks like you. Chances are the renegade priest has a completely different reason for opposing Dominius, than the King's brother, than the Duke Viscarl. Before you try to show the rebels economic prosperity, make sure that's what they want to see."

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion nodded, taking in the doctor's words. He agreed with his initial word; perhaps one of the rivals were a better leader--but at the moment such was not something they could pursue. The Queen sent him to make an alliance with Dominius; such was, whether he liked it or not, his mission.

"True, right. Thank you, Garret." After a moment, he continued, "I'll try talking to some of the members of the court to get an impression about the other factions. It might be possible to play them against one another; that they are not a united front shows that they have at least some disagreements. If any of you can do so as well, it would be appreciated. Captain Marina and Claire, I imagine you will have some conversation with the guard in the palace while we are working or doing negotiations. If either of you can, try to get the soldiers' attitudes about the others, as well as any knowledge of their common tactics or capabilities. I'd trust a soldier's word above most nobles when it comes to such. Master Sebb and Handmaiden Aurora, if either of you find yourselves amongst the court and can gather useful information about capabilities or loyalties, please inform me."

After a moment to hear any additional comments, he said, "Well, I imagine I should contact Her Majesty."

---

Walking to a private communications room, Chenzion activated the channel to communicate with the Queen.

Is the communication line secure?

[RJ45]

Minerals. Of course. Honoria wouldn't let them do this if they knew about the mineral deposits below the surface, would they? Maybe. Avendell seemed like the only country who would follow up on putting poor souls to work out here. Perhaps that was why - because no person would ever willingly work here. The lack of protest from the prisoners was the most unnerving thing about this all - they were so beaten and worked that they seemed lifeless. Indeed, this was a fate far worse than death. Fitting for some, but not for so many.

She pulled a cigarette free and began smoking - if it were any hotter, she wouldn't have to light the thing at all. It would have just combusted right in her hand. "Hey, Blackjack. Remember me? It's been a while." She maintained a bit of distance, to allow him to continue his work while they had a seemingly casual conversation. She leaned on a nearby table as she spoke. "How's business going? Seen Pops anywhere?" Of course, by 'Pops' she was referencing her father. "Black Jack, you're not lookin' so black anymore. Maybe I should start callin' you White Jack?" She played with him, as was evident by the small smile across her face.

[daelrog]

For the line, you can send a single message out, and get one in return. It won't be a conversation back and forth. You can safely assume that the line probably won't be secure.

@RJ: It's two words, like the color plus the name, not the card hand:smallwink:

Black Jack took a careful look at Remedy first. "What the hell do you want? What the hell are you doing here?"

Remedy suddenly remembered that no one really like him.

[RJ45]

"Khan Virele. Seen him recently?" A very boring person. A strict person.

If he wanted to mind his electronic panel all alone, she had no objections. In truth, she had much more important things to attend to.

[daelrog]

"Khan Virele, that damned son of a-" he took a closer look at her. "-Remedy?" He looked her up and down, seeing that she wasn't imprisoned. He looked confused for a moment, he was certain that he had come on the only ship from Avendell in the past week, and no new ship had come in. Sharpness wasn't one of Jack's strongest suits either. "Well, if it isn't my good pal's daughter. What brings you to the Pale Waste? Starting the smuggling gig or something?" His face suddenly darkened at the thought of even more competition. "Say, what are you doing here?"

[RJ45]

"Oh, not much. I just decided to take a vacation. A vacation to hell." Having something lighter to be dressed in would be wonderful. Unfortunately, those sorts of things were left in a lockbox a few days away, and she wasn't about to casually spend a week walking just to get a skirt and a more comfortable shirt. "I'm on my way to Honoria. I took a little bit of a scenic route along the way." He didn't need to know about everything that had happened, so she didn't tell him. Such is the nature of this job. "As I've been attending business, I've lost track of my father. I'm curious where he is, as we've been playing a little game."

[JeenLeen]

After collecting himself, Chenzion sent the following message:

"We met some misfortune in our travels, as has likely already been reported. Our host is amiable to our request and accepts the gift you asked me to offer, but wishes that I teach his engineers some tricks and wishes for a fourth of the property you wish to acquire. Is that acceptable? He also hopes that we can persuade some rivals of his to see that they need not be competing and help some problems with the neighboring lands. We plan to work with our host, but if you have any suggestion or guidance, please inform us."

Good. It gave away no information any enemies probably did not already have: the attack was obvious, and a note of 'property' should be vague enough that the particular islands wouldn't be discerned if a spy didn't already know. And as for yielding technology and political aid, the sooner his enemies know of such, the sooner rumors that the King might have more resources than assumed start to spread... Chenzion thought and hoped such was a good thing.

[daelrog]

The smuggler smiled, though for what reason, it was unclear. "Khan? Last I heard he headed off to Desden, you know out west? Think it was about a year, year-and-a-half ago. Guess things are pretty unorganized and unstable there, ripe for pickin's if you know what I mean, that is, if you can hold your own against all the other would-be opportunistics (the man didn't even know how to say opportunists correctly). No, I prefer the trade in Honoria, things are simpler over here. Pay offs not as good, but there aren't daggers behind every corner."

His smile faded and his stared at the much shorter girl. "Wisp."

She did not need to know more. 'Wisp' was a powerful narcotic, and one very, very illegal. Some said it was because Avendell couldn't make any real profit from it, but they had a moral authority over the matter because it was a powerful hallucinogenic depressant that had on more than one occassion to cause someone to starve to death, so entranced in their euphoria.


Chenzion received a message within half an hour. The Queen's voice, though slightly distorted by the machine, was still full of warmth, beauty, and strength. "Yes, I have heard of our loss, and I deeply regret their loss, one that will see Maurzhul and his ilk pay. There is too much at stake now that Teth has shown how strongly it wishes to stop us." There was a pause.

"I find the King's terms acceptable. Assist him in any way you can, act swiftly and efficiently. Concern yourself with the rebels, we may be able to assist with the other threats in time.

"Aurora, it is time you lived up to your task."

The message ended. All eyes turned to the handmaiden. Her voice was resolute, though not joyous. "I am to offer myself to the King as a gift from my Lady."

[Sinistral]

Olenna bit her lip in frustration and anger, her hand shaking slightly but noticeably. Maurzhul’s words had opened a floodgate or memories and emotions best left buried. She was angry at the Queen who had put her in this position. She was angry at Maurzhul for dragging up old memories best left buried. She was angry with herself for being so caught up in her own ego that she couldn’t see what was right in front of her. This wasn’t an interrogation, it was a recruitment. How could she have been so foolish?

What was worse was that Maurzhul was right. Despite a lifetime of effort and toil and loss, she still hadn’t escaped the ultimate fate of the Alter; a life of slavery to the humans. She had merely exchanged one master for another. Olenna had always known this, deep down. But she had learned to ignore the chains, because for so long nothing could be done about them. But all that was changed now. In a bizarre way, being captured by the Teth had given her options. Away from the prying eyes of the Queen she could do what served her. That was her mistake. She was thinking through the problem like Olenna the spymaster , not recognizing the opportunity that was being given to her .

A small voice in the back of Olenna’s mind warned her about accepting the general’s offer. He’s playing you, using your emotions and history to create a desirable outcome for himself. You should know, you do it all the time. He’ll discard you the second you lose your value. But Olenna wasn’t listening to her more reticent side. As much as it pained her to admit, Maurzhul’s words got to her. The chance to revenge herself on Avendell also weighed heavily on her mind. What was more, if she played her cards right, she could drastically affect the fate of three different nations. That kind of power was intoxicating, and the opportunity to exercise it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. For now, she would play the generals game.

“It seems I have underestimated you. Very well, I’ll tell you what I know of my fellow ambassadors. Of the twelve Ambassadors chosen by the Queen, I only have substantial information of the five who met the Queen with me. Our bodyguard Marina, our doctor, the former adventurer who calls himself the Baron, a business woman who goes by Remedy, and the lord Chenzion, who I assume you already know about.

Marina is a soldier nothing more, nothing less. She is competent, and will do her duty to the best of her ability. The doctor I don’t know much about, aside form rumors that he is a pacifist. If your goals really are to stop the war perhaps he could help you. The Baron’s presence perplexes me. His exploits are well known, but he is a novice in political intrigue. Perhaps the Queen know something I don’t, but I can’t see a use for him.

The Remedy or whatever ridiculous name she uses presence is even more confusing. She’s uncouth, oblivious to the subtleties of politics and I believe has a fondness for the pipe. I wouldn’t trust her to negotiate a feud between hedge knights, let alone a diplomatic mission of this importance. Lord Chenzion’s purpose I can at least makes some sense. He is the only ambassador with noble blood and adds legitimacy to the negotiations. He is also a mechanical genius, as your yourself witnessed first hand. Those impressive lifeboats that destroyed your ship were of his design. However, he is naïve and untested. To be honest, I believe the Queen wanted me to handle most of the sensitive diplomatic matters, as the rest of the ambassadors hold expertise in other areas.”

Finished, Olenna looked straight into Maurzhul’s eyes. “I think that’s enough information for a first taste. Now, I think it’ only fair you answer some of my questions. Just what do you intend to do with me?”

[JeenLeen]

Approval received: good. And guidance: focus on the rebels first, then the rest; and perhaps help would come from other sources the Queen had. Simple sadness entered his mind at Aurora's mission, and he could tell it showed on his face. He did not ry to hide it; let his allies see he was not as monster. As monstrous as the thought of using his digust was to him.

Chenzion pressed what was needed for 'message received' and let it end. Saying anything more could only lead to negative complications. He stood silently for a moment, hoping another would break the silence.

If not... well, he figured he would lead his comrades back, at the appointed time, to give the Queen's acceptance and her newly-discovered gift of Aurora.

[daelrog]

Maurzhul nodded in approval. It was a good first taste.

"I will take you to my ally, it is someone you know. He will take responsibility for you and he will determine what is to be done with you. The man seems quite confident you will be asset. So far, I have learned to trust his judgement."

Maurzhul stood up, and walked towards the door. "You will be released from your room in an hour. I need to ensure that every soldier is aware that you are to be untouched." He was almost out of the door, when he glanced back. There was something he inteded to say, but chose not to.

You can either look around the ship, or I can describe it to you, or we can move ahead a few days in time to the day the others are on where you can meet the traitor.

Sebb gave a soft chuckle that eased the tension in the room. "Such is the fate of many handmaidens. They are raised to be the most beautiful, most elegant creatures in the world, to be given off to generals and nobles, and heroes. Those that don't spend their youth accompanying their Lady until their age pushes them into smaller roles such as Mistress of the Kitchen, or Host to Minor Nobles. A less than pleasant thought I know, but a far better fate for most the girls who are taken from orphanages." He turned to Chenzion, seeing his distress. Though his words were soft and considerate, his eye seemed as harsh as ever. "It is easy to be led astary when you think small scale boy. Consider the larger picture. The King awaits."

[RJ45]

She took a long drag from her cigarette. He opened up, at least enough to converse. "There are plenty of daggers everywhere in Honoria - fortunately, if you're not involved with their little war, there's only a couple for people like us." The conversation switched to the popular flavor in Honoria. Wisp. She hadn't synthesized it too many times, and had only tasted it herself in a very, very small amount. That small dose was enough of a magic journey for her lifetime. "Yeah. I can see Pops picking up the pieces for all they're worth. Looks like I'll have to wait on paying him a visit. Wisp isn't something you just find growing on trees."

There was something above them. A large, flying ship. An Avendell warship. The important thing to remember was that, despite who she was traveling with, this was her nation. That makes this her territory. Prison or not, she began to feel an unjustified sense of security. "Before I leave for Honoria, I've got to talk to a couple friends in Avendell. What's the easiest way to do that around here?" It wasn't as easy as using a carrier pigeon or writing a letter.

[daelrog]

"Probably head up to the White Eagle." He saw something in her eyes. "And 10% of whatever you're planning."

Ah yes, the infamous Black Jack, never one for words, or planning, or thinking, or charisma, but he could smell a deal from a mile away and get his share.

No wonder no one liked him.

[RJ45]

He had tried to hassle her out of her earnings, when he did nothing to get them. She had a simple response: taking the mostly-smoked end of her cigarette in her fingers and flicking it onto the ground between them.

Translation: Nope.

She turned towards the door and started towards it. She knew what she needed to know. White Eagle. "Take it easy." she told him, setting her goal towards the White Eagle. She figured it was that warship - that would mean that there had to be some sort of communications room, most likely higher up than the other rooms. Remedy was never good with 'electronics' or those other fancy gadgets.

She really hoped that Black Jack didn't follow after her. There was a reason for her being so resolute in those actions - there are people who affiliate themselves with the black market that are walked all over. After everything is said and done, they have no profit, as everyone has extorted their earnings away. In her younger years, this had happened to her. She grew out of it. If someone earns money or a slice of the profits from her, they earned it. She wasn't going to pass up anything - even theoretical money, to someone she merely conversed with. They certainly weren't trading valuable information.

She was to find a way to contact this White Eagle. The Queen needed to know a few things - namely about how she was the last living ambassador and about all the things that had transpired. She couldn't speak of this... prisoner mining operation. Black Jack was involved. That means others in the black market are definitely involved.

A struggle. The entire operation - putting these people into slavery, to work themselves to death, all of this was wrong. This was a fate for Teth, never for humans and alters, even if they did the worst of crimes. Stopping this operation, directly or indirectly, was stomping on the toes of her affiliates. She would get away with it. They would never know. The mining would stop, and they would find a new operation to exploit.

Working against the mining operation would hinder their progress. That was never a good thing. If only there was a way to replace the humans with Teth...

[JeenLeen]

So, thought Chenzion, this is Sebb's attitude. He noted it. That attitude would probably be useful in this mission, even if it meant he and Sebb would probably be no more than seeming friends.

With a nod and forced smile, Chenzion replied, "Right. We are all here from our different places for the big picture, this alliance. Come, let us go talk to the King."

As he walked, he wondered more about what was happening. What asset were each of the ambassadors? He could see his technological skill and perhaps some asset as an actual diplomat. Marina and hers, the soldiers, although perhaps more. Olenna was likely the true diplomat; perhaps Chenzion was there to be her 'superior', so the King wouldn't have to work directly with an Alter. Aurora's purpose was obvious, and no doubt she would have some if not much influence in her role. Sebb... perhaps he was here to make sure things stayed on track.

Olenna lost. The Baron likely because of his martial skill and planning, or as extra muscle; his presence was confusing, but alas he was either dead or likely dying in the Wastelands. The same with Remedy... whatever her purpose was.

Garret... just a doctor? We all have our individual orders, in those letters from the Queen.

With these thoughts, the young ambassador returned to the King's chamber to, he hoped, set this deal.

[daelrog]

@RJ45
As for your plan to get on the warship, there isn't any watch on you, so you won't get caught... at least as long as you're stealthy. However, there is also no bridge of walkway, or cable car to the warship. You'll need to talk to one of the guards or someone to see a way to get on board.

It took an hour for Dominius to return. He was now sweating from head to toe. He had just come back from the training yard. He appeared far older now, a soldier-born, despite his royal status. If ntohing else, he was a romantic warrior.

After receiving confirmation of the Queen's offer, the King seemed to pause slightly, turning to the four old men, one of whom only nodded his head slowly. "All right, so how do you intend to deal with the rebels my good Ambassador. The renegade priest is hiding out in the far southwest, around the border with Sraiks. Reports have come in that Karnak himself sits beside the fanatic.

"Duke Viscarl sits in his fortress, a hundred miles behind the battleline in the safety of his fortress and slew the last messenger we sent. My brother... we don't know where he's at." His gaze turned to a very uncomfortable looking General, no doubt the man who had lost track of them.

"I am all ears Ambassador Casva, on how a small handful of Avendell can do what all my forces have not."

[RJ45]

No bridge. No ways of communication. Waving at it probably wouldn't do anything. Remedy began to wander, in search of someone who might know more. A guard would be perfect. In truth, Remedy didn't care about getting on the ship so much as delivering her messages. If the only way to do so was on that ship, then she would be paying a visit up there, one way or another.

[JeenLeen]

With a confident smile, Chenzion replies, "Your Majesty, the first step we will need is a report of the intelligence gathered about the different rebel factions. Not just their location or numbers, or what is known of that, but more importantly their motivation."

"My companions and I have already discussed this in part, and we have some plans. However, we need to know our enemies before we can truly plan our strategy against them."

Feeling bold, but hoping it was not so bold that he risked his head to the young and possibly reckless king, Chenzion added, "My Lord, I would also like to know how closely you trust those in your court. No doubt the enemy has spies, as I imagine you also have your information network--" at this point, but without pausing his words, Chenzion looked at the four sitting behind Dominius--"but I would not want our plans to fall into enemy hands. Though, there are some tidbits or false information we might want to fall into their hands, depending on things go. For example, I imagine word will quickly get out that you will have some augments to your military technology and an influx of resources with promise of more to come."

[daelrog]

Dominius raised his arms, and made a sweeping circle of the room. "I can vouch for every man in this room. The only people I don't know are you six." He stopped, and dropped into the throne. "I like you Casva, that's why I'll let you question the integrity of those I keep close. I may, in time, even let you see for yourself their trust, but I'd like to see some results before I extend my hand that far." He looked around to the corners of the room. "Ah, there you are Chrais, take our guests around the city, and explain to them what you know of the rebel factions. You seem so in love with Avendell that I think you'll be sure not to leave a single detail out." His tone was lsightly mocking, but if Diplomt Charis Fessen noticed, he hid it by shuffling forward, nodding furiously in submission to the King's request.

As the diplomat energetically ushered them out, Aurora delicately put her hand up to stall their most advent supporter.

She appeared all the more radiant, now in her element. Her smiled seemed geniune, Chenzion would never have known she held reservation had he not seen her reaction earlier in the day. "My good King, my Lady wishes that I am to stay with you, and help ease the burdens of your rulership. She humbly wishes for you health to be well despite the conflcit that you battle within your borders."

Aurora was stunning, her breeding had no fault at this moment, for she glimmered in the light.

The King's eyes flashed, his mind racing with all the things he could do to her supple body at merely the nod of his head. He instinctively tucked his dry lips in to lick them wet. His eyes flashed again, and narrowed. "I thank the Wueen for her generous offer, but I feel I am best suited to my own company during these times. Your Queen will understand." The last statement was not a question, or a sign of courtesy.

Aurora LeAnguelle kept her composure, save for her holding her breath. As she started to gorw white, she let her lips loose, and her shoulders seemed to fall slightly. "As my good King requests."


Remedy could see there were plenty of guards around, for the crew of the warship acted as double. There must be a skeleton crew above. What she needed was an officer, someone who had some pull.

As she worked her ways upwards, she ran into a pair of the Fey here or there, as well as one of the wild humans she knew little of, an older man who rarely spoke. No one bothered her as she reached the surface. Here at the surface, a cold breeze took violent hold of her, a stark contrast to the pit. Damned from the heat or damned from the cold. Here she could see a few guards with Officer's livery standing in a small huddle and chatting away. All three glanced over at her. Remedy was not stunning like Aurora, but she was in pretty in her own right, and far more approachable. If only she knew it.


Walking along the street, none had gotten a single word in, Chrais was blabbering away every fact he knew, all from the eating habits of Viscarl, to alleged rumors that Jerrus abused small kittens, a notion easily dismissed by the ambassadors as rumor and heresay.

However, some of what he said was useful. They found out that Halleus was in hiding. Some rumors held he was with a small band of Fey, others that he was amassing a mighty host to the north. Even Chrais, who seemed to bark at Dominius's order seemed to partially admit that some people seemed to prefer Halleus over Dominius. He quickly corrected such blasphemy that being likable was hardly a necessary trait for a King, for strength was far more important. Above all others, Dominius held Halleus in contempt, feeling betrayed by the younger brother who should have been his right hand.

Duke Viscarl was troubling to hear about. He was a tyrant, bordering on mad. Chrais spoke from first hand experience how the Duke was a sweet and gentle man around the last King, acting hism ost loyal servant at day, then at day abusing the maids and any woman of low status he thought to conquer. His rage was not unpredictable, Chrais assured, but very much calculated. The King still laid dying when he had boasted to his closest supporters, within earshot of many others, that he would have both brothers' heads on the pikes sitting outside his gates. His home province was very defendable, mountainous and treacherous to navigate.

The priests of Karnak were led by Jerrus, a radical. Apparently Karnak itself had appeared before Jerrus and said he did not wish Dominius to rule. Supposedly, the god still stood by Jerrus's side, fifteen-feet-high, and wrethed in flame. Though Jerrus's forces were small, and easily found, no one dared upset one of the seven gods.

All this time, everyone had stolen glances at Aurora who was gradually falling apart. Her whole life was literally a failure, for the King had dismissed her as if she were common trash. Her whole life spent to be the treasure of any man, to be an angel standing behind the goddess of a Queen, was dismissed. She had completely, and utterly failed.

During their walk around they also found another interesting sight, the Blue Caps. Chenzion counted 261 in their number, marching to meet Dominius, the reason why he had let Chrais give the details. As their name suggested, each wore a green cap, with a large, bright blue feather in it. Their leader was a grim looking man, six-foot-six, with a terrible scar on each cheek. He seemed to notice who they were, scowling at a cowering Chrais. On his left stood a gant and pale man with shaved hair and eybrows, with light grey eyes that seemed dead. To his right stood a young woman, very pretty despite having no make up, an earthy look with short black hair that did not qutie reach her soldiers.

Chrais explained that the Blue Caps were generally 300 strong (twice the number of the Queen's Reavers from Avendell). Some were still at the capital, overseeing the stabilization of the recently besieged city, and a few were already tracking theirn ext destination. The other couple dozen had fallen to Grand marshal Eios's last assault.

Chenzion had to choose between finding a man who was in hiding, tempting a mad Duke, or facing a the most warlike god of the seven. None seemed pleasant.

Got the factions up you asked for JeenLeen

[RJ45]

This was quickly becoming annoying unlike anything seen before. If sending a message took all night to figure out, she might as well just start walking back to the room she was to rest in and do just that.

It's not like the ambassadors would have made a difference anyways - Honoria is in the middle of its own war. They aren't going to sign up for a war while they're already fighting their own. Any genius can figure that out. - she thought.

Boiling, then freezing. The incredible shift in temperature makes the cold air feel much worse than it actually was. In truth, Remedy didn't mind too much. Being cold was much better than being hot - and it was refreshing, at least at the moment. Thankfully, the dress that she cursed for being too hot moments ago comes to use here, as it keeps her warmer.

She took notice of the small crowd of people. Three of them. Looking at her. It would take more than that to stop her in her tracks. She approached them, not joining them in the huddle so much as standing close enough to be addressing them. "Beautiful day we're having, isn't it? It's absolutely lovely how the wind freezes your blood right in your veins." Hard sarcasm. "Yeah. Anyways, I need to get to the White Eagle. Any suggestions?"

[daelrog]

Whatever praise the three men might have had for the young woman, it was lost on them with her attitude. She was complaining about the weahter that they had been dealing with for three weeks, and her tone was not respectful to men who had rank, and men who were as equally annoyed with life.

"Isn't she one of those 'wild humans' that came with that Halleus guy?"

"Look at her man, she ain't wild, she's a normal little girl."

"Guess so." The first man turned back to Remedy. "Normally I'd tell you to sod off, but luckily enough we're all a little bored. Why do you need to get onto my Captain's ship?"

[RJ45]

The moment she was related to those feral humans, she cocked one eyebrow. There was only one insult greater than that one, and it would be to call her Teth. To call her one of them It took all of her willpower to resist swearing at him - coupled with being so underestimated that they referred to her as a 'little girl', she vented her own opinion.

"The ****? Do I look like some sort of uneducated, rolling-in-grass heathen-child?" Her arms were folded over her chest. She really couldn't care less what rank they were. After giving a cold stare, "I've a couple messages to send to Avendell. Business is business."

=========================

Remedy might have been pleasant to the eyes, but as Remedy, she had to toughen up. As Alice, however, she had more room to be feminine. By the end of the day, however, there wasn't much time left to be Alice. Her father had teased her countless times before about her lack of a lover. In a way, not having someone special to her was a painful thing she had to keep at the back of her mind. Working with the black market tended to cut one's lifespan shorter than most, unless one was either amazingly careful or amazingly skilled.

She wanted children. More importantly, she wanted someone that loved her. Loved her before she made her fortune. Loved her for who she was. Becoming rich and living in a mansion for the rest of her days was one of her biggest dreams - the moment she had that mansion, she would be immediately loved by half of the men in Avendell just from her possessions alone. Finding someone after that moment would be impossible.

With people as beautiful as Aurora and Marnu around, her chances of finding a special man felt lower than ever.

[daelrog]

The third officer, the one who hadn't spoken to her yet replied. "No, you actually look worse. You look like an uneducated city girl that's been rolling around in the grass and is out of her element." He leaned forward a little bit. "I don't know who you are, or who you think you are, but no one gets on the ship just because 'they have business'."

A few of the prisoners, and other guards began to look at the scene that was starting to unfold.

[RJ45]

He leaned forward, as if trying to show her up. This resulted in her puffing up as well. "Yeah, tough guy? I bet you don't have the authority to allow someone on the ship. How about you show me to your captain, so I can talk with him instead? That is, unless you have a special attachment to him. I wouldn't be surprised." Rather than resorting to yelling, she lowered the tone of her voice - it only made her statement sound more threatening. Honestly, she wasn't conscious of the people staring at her. Even if she were, would she care?

Added more to my last post. A little more history.

[daelrog]

The third officer only leaned back upright. Motioning ot the other two, he dealt his final hand. "Say, why don't you guys go find one of the Fey, confirm with them tht she's someone important." As the two men went to inform her cpators, the final officer, turned his back to Remedy. "This isn't the city girl. All your attitude is going to get you is an early grave." He was no longer joking, or mocking, but looked very, very serious. "No, if you had spoken to my Captain like that, the mean s.o.b. would have tied you upside down over the side. All that matters here is a mutual understanding. You odn't have it, your captors do."

She didn't have much time left. What she was trying wasn't working.

Chances are the officer isn't going to listen to more of Remedy's arguing. All he knows is theri unoffiical allies you give them black market goods have her captive. He won't budge just because she wants him to, at least not without a good enough story.

[RJ45]

"I don't run around places playing "insult everyone I can find" - I thought your captain might sympathize with the information I have. One of the flying ships in Avendell's fleet was shot down and burned to the ground." She sighed. She resumed a more normal stance, becoming less aggressive towards him and more to-the-point about her message. "Another might be shot down if they aren't warned. I need to make sure that doesn't happen. One way or another, the message needs to get to Avendell. Are you going to help me, or am I wasting my time?"

[daelrog]

The officer turned around back at her. "A ship was sunk? That knid of new usually spreads." He tapped his brow. "Then again news doesn't really travel here. I'll send word to the Captain to confirm your story, you can up up if it's true. Which ship was sunk?"

[RJ45]

"The Halberd. I didn't see it crash myself, but it got hit with something. Something huge. The last sight I caught of it, the whole backside of it was smoking uncontrollably and I saw flames eating away at it. Afterwards, those responsible chased after it. There's no possible way that it made it to its destination - and even if it did, there were casualties and losses of very, very important goods on that ship."

[daelrog]

The officer breathed out and shurgged his shoulders. He didn't know whether it would be better if one of the Queen's few dozen warships had fallen, or if he'd have to deal with a con artist. He pulled out a small radio, and clicked in on. "Hey Ensign, it's the Lieutenant. Hey, oculd you have the Captain confirm whether the Halberd was sunk. GIrl here says the whole backside was flaming last she saw." He listened for a few seconds. "Short girl, blonde, not very good with words. Yeah, I'll wait."

He clicked the radio off.

It took a few minutes, but Remedy could hear another voice on the radio, though she couldn't make out the words.

"Yeah... got it... really?" He looked at her. "Really?... Well I'll be damned. All right." He looked back at her. "Looks like it's you lucky..." His voice trailed off again.

Remedy turned around and saw Halleus, six Fey walking behind him, armed. Halleus was slipping on a coat over his shirt, and he looked impatient. He walked over to Remedy.

"You know, I left you to your own hoping you'd behave yourself. I didn't really want to put a leash on you, but there doesn't seem to be any other choice. I can't trust you after all, can I." It was not a question. He turned to the Lieutenant. "Send word to your Queen that four of her Ambassadors are now under my authority. Tell her the Baron was lost before anything could be done." He turned to Remedy. "Word from below says the Halberd made it. Word from below also says Grand Marshal Eios is dead. Now there's only three of us to oppose Dominius." Before she could speak he waved her off. "Not now Remedy. I'm sorry, but you're going to have to put up with a Fey bodyguard, maybe two from now on." He turned one last time to the Lieutenant. "If the Queen has any instructions for Alice, let her know."

Two of the Fey were left with her.

[RJ45]

Remedy smirked. Watching the guard made her feel better. For one, they were talking, rather than volleying insults back and forth. It was during this process that she happened to novice Halleus behind her. Armed with several Fae.

Remedy felt no need to feel threatened. If anything, having him there made her feel more comfortable. The Fae? Well, she's traveled beside them. They come with weapons. Usually. She turned around, facing him. She did not cower in the least at his presence. If anything, she seemed relieved to see him.

He continued on. He interrupted her before she could finish saying anything. As he turned and left, she said two simple things to Halleus.

I noticed there are two ways to interpret this. One way as him denying her the ability to talk to the Queen, the other allowing her to do it, but with bodyguards. I will write both directions.
Direction 1: allowing with bodyguards
Direction 2: not allowing the meeting

I really hope i'm not an idiot who can't read...

Direction 1

"Thanks for the guards. Let's talk over dinner, hmm?"

Remedy had a smile on her face. There were a handful of reasons - the dominant one at the moment was that he was evidently going to allow her to continue. Remedy might not be good at the political spectrum of dressing her words up in respective, formal language - but what she was good at was talking in a way that obscures the facts. It's a natural tone that anyone in the black market learns once they've spent time with the more important figureheads.

He had left. She would continue. Nothing would change in her plan.

=========================================

Direction 2
"That's fine. I wouldn't believe the part about the Halberd not crashing, however."

She pointed to one of the Fae. "Could you stay here and tell me if the Queen gives me any other orders?" - and with that, she chased after Halleus. He was her chief concern. "I was curious about this place. So I investigated. What did you expect?" The crowd of Fae bothered her slightly. She followed alongside them, silent for a while. Remedy felt like an annoying pup that they had to care for - and it was, to a degree, embarrassing. "Why don't we have dinner together? There are a few things i'd like to discuss."

[daelrog]

Direction 2 it is. Since JeenLeen is about to disappear for a couple weeks, I'll see if he posts in the next couple days with a plan of action to take for when he comes back. Whatever he decides will determine how much of a time fram we should cover while he's gone.

[daelrog]

"I'm afraid I have other plans tonight Rmedy, but tomorrow night we'll have be feasting together." Halleus turned away and quickly went back down into the pit.

That night Remedy received word from the Queen. Though not quited exactly, the Fey said that apparently the Queen was ahppy to hear at leadt four of oyu had survived. As to the others, the Halberd survived albeit with heavy damage. Of the others, only Olena was lost, taken by the Bezerkers.

So I figure that JeenLeen is off away right now. For now, let's just continue and he'll get up to speed on his return.

[RJ45]

With that, she had accomplished everything she could. Or, well, as much as she hoped she could have. She was shocked - how did the Halberd make it? The important thing was that the queen was aware of what happened, and was hopefully still aware that she was still devoted to this cause. Glory and fortune was important; sealing away the Teth and making sure these lands remained human controlled was beyond that.

So, with that, Remedy decided to return to the place she had been before. After today's ordeals, she wanted dinner, sleep, and time to reflect on everything that had happened since she left home.

[JeenLeen]

While walking and listening to the diplomat, Chenzion took a moment when he seemed distracted or was blathering about some irrelevancy and turned to Aurora and said with sincere comfort, "Lady Aurora, the young king was surely putting on a front. He may fear your beauty masks a spy, not a companion. I have no doubt that more acquaintance with him will soften his words and stance."


---

When seeing the Blue Caps, he turned to the Chrais and said, "Those three--leaders of the Blue Caps, perhaps?--who are they? I assume their loyalty is without question." The last sentence had something of a question to it.



---

As for the three:


Copy & Paste SPOILERing the data for my convienence:
They found out that Halleus was in hiding. Some rumors held he was with a small band of Fey, others that he was amassing a mighty host to the north. Even Chrais, who seemed to bark at Dominius's order seemed to partially admit that some people seemed to prefer Halleus over Dominius. He quickly corrected such blasphemy that being likable was hardly a necessary trait for a King, for strength was far more important. Above all others, Dominius held Halleus in contempt, feeling betrayed by the younger brother who should have been his right hand.

Duke Viscarl was troubling to hear about. He was a tyrant, bordering on mad. Chrais spoke from first hand experience how the Duke was a sweet and gentle man around the last King, acting hism ost loyal servant at day, then at day abusing the maids and any woman of low status he thought to conquer. His rage was not unpredictable, Chrais assured, but very much calculated. The King still laid dying when he had boasted to his closest supporters, within earshot of many others, that he would have both brothers' heads on the pikes sitting outside his gates. His home province was very defendable, mountainous and treacherous to navigate.

The priests of Karnak were led by Jerrus, a radical. Apparently Karnak itself had appeared before Jerrus and said he did not wish Dominius to rule. Supposedly, the god still stood by Jerrus's side, fifteen-feet-high, and wrethed in flame. Though Jerrus's forces were small, and easily found, no one dared upset one of the seven gods.


Chenzion mused over the information. It was quite possible that Halleus would be a better king, but such was not something he was in a place to entertain. For now, he was missing. He would make himself known. Chenzion hated to betray confidence, but perhaps he could befriend a fey, if he found any in town, and try to sneak a message claiming possible alliance to lure Halleus or his leaders out.

Duke Viscral... a strong and, if stories be believed, sadistic military leader and liar. Military might would be the best route. He would save him for last.

The priest. If Karnak was active, then things were bad. Perhaps the priest was a sorcerer, though, using some illusion or conjuration. As horrifying a potential, he seemed the best to attack.

When they reached a secure location after their tour, he asked Chras: "Are all of Halleus' supporters with him in the wilds, or does the king suspect he has supporters in town that will rally to him when he attacks? Of the nobility and military, how much support does the Duke have compared to the King? Have any of the king's spies seen this avatar of Karnak, or is it known if the priest is gifted with magic? What is the opinion of the other churches, and authority or forces do the churches individually possess?"

He also turned to his other ambassadors, "Your thoughts?"

I'm probably going after the priest first, but not sure. Depends on this info. If any of the other ambassadors have an opinion, please have them state it.

[daelrog]

"Those three? Well, the one in the middle is the leader, Colonel Huron. He's Dominius's most accomplished military mind, and if I may dare say, soldier as well. Unfortunately he is not a friend to our cuase, but the Blue Caps are removed from all politics. He will not be a problem.

"To his flanks are his two subordinates, Lieutenant Colonels Dansh and Revok. Dansh is the charming fellow to Huron's left, a cold bastard if there ever was any." Strangle, he did not recant his insult this time. "Child killer. Revok on the other hand, I'm not too sure of. Many feel she's untested, though I hear the reason why is most of her military record is confidential."

When Chenzion asked him of Halleus's followers, he replied with a hint of unhapiness. "I'm really not sure. Truth be told, I fear that Halleus has followers or potential followers everywhere you look. Halleus would have made the finest advisor if he could have controlled his envy for his older brother. I think what makes Halleus so dangerous, is we truly do not know whether his or our propaganda has reached the hearts of the people.

"No one outside of Viscarl supports him save those who wish to earn his favor. Unfortunately, he holds a military might a third of our own, but a defensible position that will make each one of his men as goo as two of ours. Although we should be abel to win siege, I fear how much we'd lose to do so. Be rest assured though, unlike Halleus, there is nothing to fear from Viscarl in regards to the people.

"Even better than spies my good Ambassador, we have eye witness accounts from our soldiers, stories matching from soldiers who had no way of sharing their experiences. I don't think he is a magic user, but I suppose anything is possible, though I say that every priest of Karnak from here to Avendell calims that it truly is the god manifest.

"The other churches have yet to play any role in the new regime. For now, they seem content not to sully their hands with anything."

None of the other ambassadors had much to say, though both Marina and Garret seemed against the idea of seeing Viscarl first. Apparently, the Made Duke had a bad reputation for torturing captives who had fled from Avendell's own civil conflicts. Aurora was still beside herself despite his words, and Sebb only deferred to Chenzion's judgement.


Remedy had a poor dinner of dry rations. Her sleep was equally poor. Though the work had stopped, every small sound in the pit echoed and reached her ears.

Despite all this, she felt mdoerately well in the morning considering. When she reached the top of the pit with a couple of Fey to lead her up, everyone was waiting, though it did not look like for long. Halleus turned to her. "Oh, your Queen and I exchanged a few messages with each other last night. You've been given orders to see that my brother keeps his crown, and that I am to in no way lead the Honoria." He tried ot gauge her response before explaining. "After hearing from Fiorza on her plans to go to war with Teth, I respectfully informed her that if I rule, she will never have our support militarily or otherwise for such a conflict. Now come along, I think today's journey will be much more enjoyable."


Meanwhile, aboard the Raging Dawn, Olenna's journey with Maurzhul was coming to a close. She had learned much of the Teth in the days spent, mostly things she observed, from their strict cultural code, to to layout of the warship. Mauzhul let her have free reign for the msot part, though nowhere near where she could communicate off ship. He also discouraged her from going into the pens where the Deathbeast and Spinehogs were kept.

They landed on a fishin ilsand, a coupld miles off of Honoria's northern shore. Here, there were hilltops covered in snow almost yearly. The hsips alnded softly into the water, as softly as such a large ship could, and anchored itself at the shallows of the island.

Olenna was led off the hsip by Maurzhul where she saw a very familiar face. Though not in his armor, there was o mistkaing who the traitor was.

To be revealed when Sinistral comes back

[RJ45]

The food - here, of all places - was as it should be. Expecting a grand feast would be met with disappointment. That, and Remedy was getting used to the food the Fae ate, unfortunately. Quicker than usual, she broke from her rest and started the journey with the Fae - the habit of resting and relaxing as long as she could was being broken... part of the truth of the situation, however, was that it simply was not comfortable here.

Halleus spoke to her about the exchanges that took place last night. He informed her of the obvious... "Huh. Halleus, that's a bad habit you have there. You're supposed to lie and keep people in the dark so that they can be better used at their leader's convenience." A very tragic joke - as apparently every leader, including her Queen, kept things going under the table. As far as she was able to tell, there was nothing he could have lied about. It all seemed to work against him. "... I wonder if Halleus could make a perfect country without those webs of deceit." She was growing a certain respect for this man. If only she could make him see that the Teth were nothing short of murderous, disgusting beasts...

[JeenLeen]

After hearing of the Blue Cap leadership, Chenzion decided to ask the King later. Whatever information he received would be biased and perhaps purposefully misinformed, but he figured that Chrais told all he knew. Well, almost. Chenzion asked, "The colonel. Is he not an ally to the idea of war with Teth, or has he different ideas about who should rule?"

---

After talking some time to weight the options, Chenzion asked Chrais to step outside for a moment while he could discuss with his fellows:

"Attacking Viscral would be foolish. It would waste our resources and allow another faction to attack while we are weak. To lead an assault against the rebel prince is also dangerous at this point; we do not know what seeming allies may turn on us, and regardless we do not know where he is.

"I think we should focus on the priest. I was hoping, and still hope to a degree, that he is a charlatan manifesting some magical illusion. If Karnak is actually manifesting and working against King Dominius, I see little hope, at least if he is intervening directly. However, their forces are small and, if they lack divine power, we should be able to take them.

"By Garret's earlier suggestion, if we can find some way to get Viscral to attack the priest or vice-versa..."

I am interrupted mid-post, so I'll post this far and finish later. I guess if anyone has any specific comment, let them make it. Also, can I get a roll on how Karnak has manifested or interevened in the past?
[roll0]
vs Some studies in magical theory and history (d12)

[daelrog]

Halleus shrugged his shoulders as if he didn't have a care in the world. "It'll take the better part of a day's march to get to the Dreamwood. Why don't you talk to your compatriots, see what they've learned."

With that, they were off again, the Pale Waster there and gone as if it never existed.


Chrais only shook his head when asked of the Colonel's thought of the war. "He's a soldir. Here in Honoria soldiers are not allowed any poltical voice to prevent anarchy. Grand Marshal Eios made that mistake and paid accordingly." He looked at Chenzion. "Forgive me, I don't mean to avodi the question. It's not that I think our Commander has any love for Teth, it's just that I don't think he cares for any nation save for Honoria."

Later that day, when Chenzion conferred with the others, they all seemed okay with his plan, especially thsoe who did not want to deal with Viscarl any time soon.

Fun Fact of the Day
Of the seven gods, Karnak participates in human affairs the third most, behind Auros, and the Great Defiler. His signature appearance is fire, in some way or form, a representation of his inner buring. Most speculate it is his unrequited love that created this, others suggest he was already a warlike god.

In the past, Karnak has usually sided with power. The more stable, more powerful nation founds favor from Karnak, putting him at odds often with Many as One. One notable example was around a hundred years ago in Sraiks when he haulted a rebellious faction of the Earth-Born that had disconnected themselves with their mental links with the others by setting a fire behind their lines that would not go out, trapping them against superior numbers.

Like the other gods, Karnak hates to fight directly, preferring his followers to carry out mundane tasks. In history, he has only been deated twice by mortals, one was the founder of Teth, the other a Fey King from some distant, long forgoteen kingdom.

For what reason Karnak has to be involved with Honoria right now is not known, his priests had kept quiet on the matter when asked.

[RJ45]

And so, Remedy began another infinite journey - or so it felt. The moment the terrain changed away from the pale, dead blizzard (on the surface, at least) she was relieved. At least the savage forests had a temperature between searing and freezing. She took a moment to ask those of the Halberd that were still with her what they had 'learned'.

[daelrog]

It was not long until the trees chagned, and in another moment, she entered a wolrd of paradise. The sun disappeared over a canopy of black leaves so thick they seemed to be a blanket of infinite darkness. There way was lighted by the trees, stark white with a fiant, soft flow like each held a tiny moon within it.

It was not Halleus, but Marnu who spoke up, informing Remedy, Mikhail, Ryan, and Rajj of what they saw. "The Dreamwood was created by Qizhchrsh, the Great Defiler ages ago. In the city, the trickster god is seen as a nuissance at best. He turns a sprawling market into a playground, a main street inot a maze. However, out here in the Wildernesses we can appreciate change. If Qizhcrsh only adds icing to nature's cake.

"I don't like you 'Remedy'. You hate too much. You hate me for choosing to live outside your civiiaztion, you hate my fey companions because you do not understand them. You looked upon your own culture yesterday and felt ashamed yet you still cling to it like a babe to her mother's-"

"That's enough Mardu, I think she is starting to get the picture." Halleus took over. "To anyone from the cities, the Wildernesses offer nothing but quick death. To those who live and learn, and who walk among friends can witness places beyond imagining. There are over a dozen places jsut like this, each one more fantastic than the last if you know where to look. Tell me Remedy, is it so savage of the Fey to choose a life that they understand, in a world where they are the lords and masters of their own life, as compared to the urban Fey who find second citizenship status?"

As they walked, tiny light began appearing, floating between the trees. She could overhear one of the other wild humans speak to Ryan and Mikhail somwhere behind her. "Wisps. They try to draw out animals with their glow until they are alone and vulnerable. They won't bother so many of us. Kind of a nice sight though, eh?"

She could not hear whether they agreed or not.

[RJ45]

A world beyond worlds. A paradise so secluded from the normal world that it would be unreasonable to walk upon this place by chance. For a long moment, she stared on. Beautiful couldn't describe it - but that was all it was. A place. Somehow, as they began speaking to her, she was hit with remembrance of a time that seemed so distant - the times she was on the Halberd, looking below the world as if she were a goddess. However, something about that fact agitated her. The Humans had invented flying ships, and in such had invented their own paradise. The Fae, on the other hand, had walked upon a natural wonder and... as they continued, they brandished it as their own.

She brought herself to her knees for a moment, investigating a couple of the plants. It seemed odd - she wondered how healthy those plants were away from the sun. Could those trees truly provide life in and of themselves? Marnu explained something about the gods. In truth, Remedy wasn't paying so much attention - the gods were insignificant. They had their own agenda, playing with the world as if it were their own toy. 'God' and 'Infinitely powerful wizard' seemed synonymous. It was the words that followed after that got her attention. Addressing Remedy personally.

Marnu knew how to incite anger. Fortunately, Halleus cut her speech short. After hearing Halleus, she had her own opinions. "It's a wonderful thing to 'command your own life' and to go in pursuit of a life you understand. Unfortunately, it is those who chase after that which they do not understand that can command the world. Avendell has ships that fly. How much longer until they invent castles that move? Carriages that pull themselves? Will the Fae run from these things and live under the trees until someone with these devices becomes the 'master' of that previously free life?"

She pulled a cigarette free from her case and placed the case back in her pocket. She reached for her lighter, "You can either spend a short while building a fire, or..." A small flame emerged from the lighter, lighting the cigarette.

[daelrog]

I like that response RJ

One of the Fey spoke, one of the larger ones, his horns certianly the msot inmpressive. After a short chuckle he said something in hsi own tongue that made most of the others, including Halleus have a small chuckle.

Halleus translated. "He thinks it is ironic that you threaten them with being conquered and being forced to submti to a 'master' when right now, if anything, the Fey are you 'masters'." Halleus continued on to address her more directly. "I've asked them a similar question to yours in the past, do you know what theys said?"

Remedy, despite wanting to retort to the Fey right away, nodded to let Halleus speak.

"They said that in time they would naturally have to adapt, just as any other species. However, they pointed out to me that such a world is a long, long way away, and even now there are places in the world where cities and reclining further and further inot ruin, and the Wildernesses are taking over. They told me that the city dwellers, such as you or I, seeme content to build our cities higher rather than outwards. They even mentioned that there are some urban Fey who choose to live in the cities." He paused briefly, signalling that he was now speaking in his own voice. "I don't think it's really necessary for them to submit to a possible future before they need to. Tell me Remedy, if your favorite food was about to become non-existent, would you stop eating it because you knew in antoher year you couldn't have it, or would you enjoy it while it still was available?"

[RJ45]

"Neither. I would stop that food from dying out." Remedy's patience was running thin. The division between beast and human was becoming quite clear - a beast is content with a nest. A human is never content, and will still not be content until the day those buildings are so tall that those humans could touch the stars from atop the buildings. It's a good thing she had that cigarette, because this was becoming frustrating. She became less talkative - if the animals wouldn't work towards a society, then one day they would be put under the gun and collared. A tragic fate.

She did, however, have words for Marnu. "I don't hate Fae. If I hated Fae, I wouldn't rest until I found a way to burn them all to death. You are right that I don't understand them, but never hatred." Those words Marnu told her before bothered her. Teth and Fae were leagues apart.

She resumed her discussion with Halleus after that short rest. "Can you at least see my concern for the future? They might take their own slow path to adapting - meanwhile, I don't want them fighting with sticks and stones while their adversaries have plate armor or even guns." If at any moment Avendell decide they didn't like the Fae, there wouldn't even be a battle - those Fae would be defeated before they could blink. In all of their discussion, Remedy couldn't help but take interest to the surroundings. They were beautiful. "On another subject, why are we here, exactly?"

[daelrog]

Halleus had a grim smile. "You have never seen the Fey at war, have you? Guns and plate armor are useful if you fight enemies with guns and plate armor." He leaned closer to her in a mocking strike. "But when your enemy has closed the distance to you before you have a chance to strike, you guns will fail agaisnt sword. When your plate armor weighs you down and inhibits your mobility, the swifter opponent will win. There is a reason the Fey are lords of the WIldernesses, in lands that none of the other great races dare tread in numbers no less than an army.

"We are in the Dreamwood, it is quite a bit north of where your companions are. If we were to travel due east we would hit the nigh impassable mountain ranges that surround Duke Viscarl's realm. If we headed due north, we would meet the cold, icy, nrothern waters. Due west would backtrack to the Pale Waste, and the further south we went, the closer we would get to Dominius's holdings.

"Remedy, please understand that the future you seek is the very thing i'm trying to precent. You would see the Chosen murdered to the last, the Earth-Born driven into submission, and the Fey either forced into your way of thinking, or at best, treated like children. Yes, I do think of a future, but one which you could never understand. I am afraid Fiorza picked her Ambassadors well. At least mostly."

He signalled over behind her where she could see Ryan and Mikhail talking with some of their captors. They were enjoying themselves, sharing a warrior bond. Rajj stil had his hands tied together, and was sitting alone.

[RJ45]

"In any case, I hope there is no war coming to the Fae anytime soon, so I hope this discussion is nothing more than talk between two bored people." Somehow, she didn't believe him about that. The Fae didn't exist here because of their strength - they existed because nobody particularly cared about these lands. They can fight other people. They can't fight wooden angels high in the sky dripping flaming oil and drenching the lands in a sea of fire. She watched those that were tasked to guard her 'playing' with the Fae. At least they were enjoying themselves.

"So, effectively, we're in the middle of nowhere. The real question was motivation - where are we going from here, or is there something other than endless beauty in all directions we're looking for? I haven't forgotten about you trying to change my mind on a couple things - and I'm looking forward to any other evidence you might have." She wasn't upset. The statement was full of nothing but truth. "That slave pit showed the true terrors hiding under Avendell - terrors that must be cleansed, but only in time."

He revealed to her his plan. His ideals. "I can respect that you wish to allow the different races to thrive. I can understand it... mostly. There is one small exception, however, and that would be the ones you call the Chosen. What makes them Chosen? Why would you call them something so... highly regarded?" They could only be one people - for Remedy would wish complete genocide on only one. "When have they done any good for this world?"

[daelrog]

"I wish the Baron was still alive today. He could have told you more about Teth than I. After all, he had spent several years on the western continent, both there and Desden to the south. The Chosen are similar to humans. They think it is their desinty to lead the world, the build grand cities, mighty armies. They have art and music and culture that is different, but no more sinister, and no less flawed than Avendell and Honoria.

"We're heading to the gathering point, where the army is assembling. There is an ally up there who promises the reinforcements we need to start the offensive. Please understand Remedy, this journey isn't for your sake. If I had wanted to show you true trajedy, I would have brought you to southern Honorian where you would see what we do with our malcontents, or perhaps to the unmakred graveyards in Avendell scattered across your nation. If I wanted to show you beauty of the WIldernesses, and why every day I'm tempted to stay with the Fey, I would have brought you to the Sun Grove, or the Endlesss Falls, or maybe even find a place that has never seen a human foot. No, all of this just happened to be on the way.

"Remedy, I can't convince you of anything. The world is full of knowledge and wisdom, and if you so wished, you could merely reach out and take hold of some obscure information that would substantiate your claims. The only way you will change your mind of anything is if you want to. And as for time my dear guest, what do you think can be accomplished tomorrow that can't be today? My father... my father spoke a lot like you just did, of how over time we would see the end of our nation's sins, but each day that passed saw the future move just as fast. I understand what you say, but do not speak of fixing things slowly over time unless you truly mean it."

[RJ45]

"I see. So, the Fae will be going to war this day." It wouldn't be coming to them. It wouldn't be 'tomorrow' - today would be the day that the Fae were sent to their deaths, by the man that loves them most at that. "I see. It makes sense. So many wouldn't have walked such a distance over a simple lesson, now would they?" She thoughts about his words. His philosophies. How she wouldn't change unless she accepted it herself. She had no rebuke - instead, her thoughts turned to how on this day Fae and Humans would die. Nothing could be done to stop it.

She looked to Marnu. They hadn't grown close in the time they were together - but somehow, Remedy felt a twinge of guilt. She thought of them as animals. Talked about them as little more than animals. They had lived together, ate together, and had painful journeys together. An attachment. She turned her head to look at all of the Fae, even ones that hadn't spoken to her directly - pain. Something had happened. She knew she couldn't see any of them lying dead on the ground and regard it as 'just a dead animal' - for the first time, she cared about something that wasn't human or alter, if even to the slightest degree.

Regardless of who won or lost the battle, it would be a loss for Remedy either way. Somehow, she was able to keep a straight face, even upon realization of her own feelings. There was only one direction they could be going - they would assault Honoria directly, facing the might of stone walls far larger than any tree.

"What would you have me do during the battle?"

[daelrog]

"Watch." At firs it seemed like that was all the response he was going to give, but then he thought better of it. "We'll reach the meeting place in by tomorrow night. We'll rest on the third, and the fourth we'll make our first strike. Your job will be to watch from afar. It wouldn't do to have our esteemed representative from Avendell be involved in our own quarrels." The last bit was a joke, although not a very good one. Over the past couple of days, Remedy had learned his humor wasn't clever, or even funny, but it had warmth.

"Now come, we still have a ways to go today."

Right, so here's where we stand right now. Remedy is heading to north, and Olenna (if Sinistral comes back) is about to start heading south, where they are supposed to meet. Meanwhile, Chenzion is about to go off to try to deal with the renegade priest.

I'll leave how much you want to cover of the nest couple days up to you. We'll have to wait Moandy for JeenLeen, and I'll ccheck in with Sinistral to see whether he is still interested or not.

[RJ45]

A day had passed. By now, Alice's legs didn't hurt. This was becoming an ordinary thing - unfortunately. She was looking worse. Her long, blonde hair was becoming untamed. Her dress was dirty. Her shoes were a mess. The former resident of the city was appearing more physically like them. It annoyed her to no end. She might not have ever invested hours infront of a mirror with makeup, but now more than ever she wanted to sit before a mirror, comb in hand, and adjust her appearance. A even more cataclysmic event would come soon enough - in all the time she had spent away from home, her cigarette case was becoming empty. There was enough for a couple more days. Aware of this plight, she began looking for something that wildly grew. Things would get ugly if she didn't have something to calm her.

They traveled. She could tell they were moving north - she had paid attention to the ways they had survived. The ways that they had maneuvered across the world. However, this contradicted her theory. North? This wouldn't bring them to Honoria. It wouldn't bring them anywhere - unless the Fae wanted to swim themselves to death. They had to be meeting their allies there. "So, who are your allies? Last I recall you said that the four factions couldn't get along long enough to deal with a common threat."

[JeenLeen]

With the agreement of his fellows, Chenzion asked for an audience with the King, his advisors if he so chose, and the ambassadors.

In the meantime, he spoke to Chrais: "Do you know to what extent the King has spies in the rival factions, and what the position between the Count and the Karnak priesthood is? Do we know if they have communicated, or if any uneasy truce or near hostilities have occurred. Also, what has happened to the Karnak priests and devotees in the capital, other towns, and the area controlled by Viscral?"

In his mind, he pondered. Karnak had been beaten before, so it wasn't an impossibility. The Queen could not really blame his family if he failed to defeat a foe who had a god backing them, could she? No, of course she could. She might not, but she certainty could.

[daelrog]

According to Chrais, the King had a few spies in Viscarl's court, but none who could gather anything useful unless a full offensive was launched, let alone be within a sword's reach. There were no spies with the priests of Karnak. There were a few score of men and women who currently were trying to find Halleus, but their contact was infrequent, and nothing promising had come yet.

So far the only attempt at truce had been from Halleus. He had been turned down by all the other rebel factions, at least for the time being.

Most of the priest of Karnak still lived aobut their duties normally day to day. Only the most extreme of their numbers had joined up arms. No one bothered those that stayed behind to do their duty, their position one that 'whatever happens happens'. Even the Mad Duke would not dare attack a priest with such little cause, for to do such a thing would bring the priest of all the gods upon you.


He was granted his meeting audience with the King the next day. With him was the three leaders of the BLue Caps and DOminius's four old advisors. Chrais was not invited.

"So Ambassador, what is your plan of action?"

[JeenLeen]

Gathering his confidence and all he knew from the training he so oft ignored, Chenzion began:

"My Lord, after being informed of the three rebel factions, we think it best to go after the rebel forces led by Jerrus. Our chances of finding Helleus are slim at the moment, and I believe that if we can consolidate your hold on the nation, Viscral's reputation may turn the tide and make him a more targetable foe.

I have two plans, in part depending on what intelligence we have. Chrais told me you have no spies amongst the Karnak priesthood, but I thought to ask you yourself; I can see that such information could be limited to a very few." At this point Chenzion turned his eyes to the four advisors, then back to the King.

"My first plan is to try to turn the rebel priests against Viscral. If we had some way to influence their forces, either through spies spreading rumors or if you have a sorcerer adept at manipulating minds, that could motivate them to attack the Count on the premise that he will soon attack them. And, on that note, if my Lord has any magic-users in his court, I would like to be informed of them for how they may aid our tactics or open new avenues of attack.

"A secondary plan is more risky, due to the manifestation of Karnak. Overwhelming them by force of arms would be foolish. If it truly is an avatar of Karnak, as seems likely, then we cannot count on military might. Furthermore, it could consolidate all the priests against you, an undesirable fate." He glanced quickly at the Blue Cap leaders. "A small but skill strike force to infiltrate the priesthood, assassinate Jerrus and other notable leaders, and then leave. Perhaps leaving evidence that Viscral was responsible, if such would likely not be traced back to you.

"My Lord, which of these sounds more to your liking?"

With a bow, Chenzion looked back to his fellow ambassadors. The second idea came to him as he spoke, and he hoped he had not gained any resentment by proposing it before consulting the others. Well, he could explain himself later if he needed to.

[daelrog]

Remedy and the others arrived at a ridge, overlooking a valley. Already an army was massing. Ryan whispered to her that he numbered them from fifteen to twenty-thousand.

When Remedy asked about who his allies were, Halleus was free with his repsonse. "Most are those who have been loyal since the start. We split up across Honoria. Our greatest strength up to this point has been Dominius's inability to find be everywhere at once. Every group he found was but a small fraction of our forces. What you see is roughly half our main fighting power. Along with a few thousand sleeper agents throughout the nation, and an additional ten thousand being promised by our allies, we'll have half the number that my brother does.

"And you're right, the four factions weren't able to get along. The only one who managed to listen was Grand Marshal Eios, but he's dead now. The followers of Karnak are too certain in their own divinity to care about alliances, and Viscarl is mad. I think he hates me even more than he does Dominius."


Dominius turned immediately to Colonel Huron. The imposing figure took a step forward and gave a shallow bow to his lord as a courtesy. "Ambassador, we have no spies. The few we tried to send were burned alive. Of your two plans the second seems more feasible. The problem with your first suggestion is that right now we sit in between their forces. Viscarl is to the northeast, and Jerrus sits on the border to the Sraiks Kingdom to the southwest. In order to get to each other, they have to go through us.

"An assassination is possible, but we've yet to try it. We'd only have once chance. Revok, what do you think?"

Lieutenant Commander Revok stepped forward. Seeing her this close made Chenzion confirm that she was beautiful, though not like Aurora. No, Revok had kileld before, something he had learned to see in the eyes. "A team of five would have a chance... along with the Ambassadors capable enough to come along."

King Dominius took this time to sit down. "If this is acceptable to you Lord Casva, the arrangement can be made tonight."

[RJ45]

They had climbed what seemed to be a mountain - what Remedy saw could not be described. More people than she had seen in her lifetime were gathered below - a sea. A sea composed entirely of people. Not only that, but this was half of their force - in total, they would be half of Dominius'. Every day, she saw another thing that astounded her. This was but another. She stared on. 20000 lives.

"So many people... there has to be another way" she told Halleus - but before he could even respond, she continued "... but I am sure that you've already thought that through. So many lives..." This was stupid. This wasn't a matter of numbers - everyone on this side of the planet would be fighting in a couple of days, and only half of that number would walk away. "It's now or never, since that advantage is soon to be exposed when you attack." There was only one thing she could do that might either recall the battle, slow it down or stop it entirely.

Kill Halleus.

Easier said than done - Remedy could be called all sorts of bad names, but a killer wasn't one of them. He had kept her fed, attended her needs, and didn't strike her for exploring or speaking. She could not kill this man, but if he died... ugh. She lit up a cigarette, constantly being reminded of the command she was told from her Queen. Dominius is to remain in control. He could be the leader that removes all traces of the Teth from their world. Something occurred to her as she thought through the fates of these two brothers.

"Halleus, what is the importance of besting your brother? I understand as much as wanting the throne... but something is missing." She fanned out her arms, gesturing to the sea of people below. "Look at them all. With this, you could make your own nation. The only thing missing is land - but even then, the world is vast. Dominius still has two opponents after you - in that time, you could secure your own lands and nation, and this wouldn't have to happen."

[daelrog]

Halleus was all out of humor right now, most likely seeing the ame thing she did. "I probably know my brother more than any other. Our nation will be crippled under his rule at best. Most likely your fellow coutnrymen from Avendell have seen him at his best, his voctiory over Eios will make him confident in himself. When we strike, they will find nothing more than a vicious tyrant. When that happens I only pray numbers will sway our way.

"If you want a certain answer, you won't find it from me. I don't know if this is right, I don't know if our civil war will save more lvies than it loses, whether the lives lost today will be less worhty to live than the lives of tomorrow. I made my decision upon hearing Dominius's first command, and I won't make a lie out of that decision."

When Remedy asked upon what that command was that could be so bad, he answered.

"To execute our mother."

He left to meet a small contigent of officers, Fey, Human, and Cloudkin. Marnu stayed behind.

[RJ45]

He had left. Of course, someone like Halleus had much to attend to on this day, for all of these people would be sent to their deaths soon enough. "So, the sins of one would travel to many? This many? It would be allowed to grow so great that it envelops all and drowns any who are involved with it? The murder of one mother would lead to thousands of potential mothers being slaughtered?" She spoke to herself. She was angry. Angry that she had no power. What was she to do? She certainly didn't have any say about all of this. In all of her frustration, she turned to Marnu.

"You're right. I don't understand. I will probably never understand. But is this acceptable? Is there truly no other option, to the point that two opposing ideas clash in the form of thousands being killed?" She stared out to that sea of people - Fae, Cloudkin, Human. If she could convince them, somehow, to become their own solidified nation, that wouldn't conflict with her goals. The Teth would still get their justice, Honoria would remain unharmed and its army would be stronger and ready for the battle with the Teth, and Halleus and the Fae could become their own strong society, giving the Fae their chance to prove their racial worth.

[daelrog]

Marnu had grown equally more grim just as Halleus. However, whereas Halleus had been cheerful on their journey, Marnu had been stone cold to being with. Now her words bit like ice. "I thought you wanted to go to war with Teth? Is your war reasonable where ours is insantiy? If they die in this war is it more tragic than if they die in yours? The story of their mother runs deeper than you know. However, it is only for Halleus to decide whether you know the whole story or not."

In the distance a horn blared. Thousands more were started to come into the camp, and in the distance, she could see two warships in the sky, though from this distance they were only dots.

[RJ45]

She decided not to respond. Marnu wouldn't hear that conflict between the civilized races was a sin when the Teth would come to destroy them all. Instead, she had a seat on a larger stone, looking over the cliff. She was formulating ideas. A flare to alert all of Honoria when they were approaching? Let it happen while she does nothing?

She stared into the horizon, confused. What was she doing here? Why was she here? How could she accomplish anything here?

[JeenLeen]

His eyebrow raised a moment when Revok spoke. No more than a second's reaction, but still one foolish to make when in court. Did she intend to send him along? He was willing and might be able to help breaking security doors or such, but surely they had specialized members. Well, if he was sent, he was sent. Let them decide such.

"Then, yes, let us begin arrangements."

Chenzion turned to Marinna: "Captain, you are the military branch of our entourage. Please voice any insights you may have." Turning back to the King and his generals, he continued, "I assume stealth and the ability to bypass whatever security measures they have are the essential traits, and, as I said, if we can blame Viscral, all the better.

"My Lord, also: do you know what sorcerers the enemy forces have in their employ? And, if it is not too private a secret, may I know what magical assets your forces possess?"

[daelrog]

The King looked upon Chenzion for about half a minute without speaking. The effect was obviously an attempt to show his superiority, though after roughly thirty seconds he lost his patience.

"We may be growing allies Chenzion, but that kind of information would leave us desperately vulnerable to Avendell. Rest assured we have our fair number of them, far more than Viscarl, and I doubt there are any within Jerrus's ranks. Now go."


As the day went on, the dots became clear, and it turned Remedy's skin to ice. The two ships belonged to Avendell. She did not recognize whcih ships they were, then again, besides the two she had seen on this trip already, she probably could not tell one from another. The two Reavers on the other hand seemed nervous upon their sitght, and excused themselves from her company.

It was an hour later when the ships had landed, and the traitor to Avendell walked within site to meet Halleus. Though not one to know military personnel, she still recognized one of Avendell's greatest heroes. It was Colonel Beshar Klaust, leader of the Reavers, the pseudo-father of Marina, and with him he had brought an army of ten thousand.


Chezion wondered why he was being brought along. This was not his field of expertise. Marina had protested bringing Chenzion along. He was too important to their cause, but in the end it was a test, to see if the Ambassador was willing ot dirty his hands as well. She had spent the entire trip trying to give Chenzion the fienr points of staying alive.

Sebb and Aurora were left behind, but the doctor, and Claire were with him as well as Lieutenant Colonel Revok and four Blue Caps. Each one was a veteran by the look in their eyes, and the scars on their bodies. Armed to the teeth they did not appear the flamboyant marching company they did back in the city.

When Marina took a break from her lectures to eat a quick meal, Revok took her chance to speak. "So tell me Ambassador, do you believe the anti-Teth doctrine you preach, or is it just repeating your orders?"

[RJ45]

She stared into that horizon for quite some time - two dots became two warships - two warships that belonged to Avendell. Remedy was already trying to solve all the problems in the world... but upon noticing those ships, her brain cracked into a thousand pieces, like a mirror being hit with a stone. She laughed softly, feeling herself losing her sanity.

"So, wait. Dominius is to remain in power, but Avendell supports the forces that want to remove him from power... so that they can... play puppeteer? No, that doesn't make sense." She muttered things to herself, possibilities of what could be happening, before summarizing her thoughts: "I just don't know anymore." It was Klaust. A person would have to be blind and deaf in Avendell to not know about him, especially in the shadier parts.

[daelrog]

That night they held ocuncil, wehre Remedy, Ryan, Mihkail and Rajj were invited. This time however, Rajj could not move and had to be carried. His arms, legs, ahnds, and feet were all bound tightly.

There were a dozen sub-commanders with Halleus. Marnu sat to his left, and the largest, most frightening Fey Remedy had seen yet to her left. To Halleus's right sat Klaust, and to his right sat another Reaver, a Cloudkin that look like a ragdoll with his numerous scars and leathery skin.

They had already spoken of their immediate plans, so now all eyes were turned to Remedy and the others. However, it was Ryan who spoke first.

"What the hell is going on sir?!"

"Speak in turn-"

"No, I will not speak in turn. Tell me what the f*** is going on. We were sent to see that we got Honoria to help us in the war against Teth, not to assist the brother that has made assurences that he will not help us."

Colonel Klaust took a moment to make sure his subordinate was done. "I fought for Queen Fiorza to bring peace to Avendell, not to see us enter an even wrose war. All the comrades we lost Ryan, meant nothing, nothing. A council was held in secret when the Queen first revealed her plans to invade the central isles. She had showed her madness, and the decision we reached was to stop her. This is the result of our decision, 10,000 strong to help end Dominius's rule and put in a ruler who will not assist the mad Queen.

"If you truly still think that Fiorza is a ruler worth fighting for, why did she keep so many secrets from you. Why did she not tell you that the Shadow over there is none other than the Drishna'Kor. Why did she hide from you that there is no servant named Sebb, or that the hand maiden was being sent to serve Dominius as a whore? Why is it where the Queen abandoned Olenna, her enemies handed her over to me without a scratch? Yes, your Alter companion is down below in the camp, and you may see her tonight.

"No, I cannot watch my countrymen enter a war that would see us destroyed."

Ryan shook his head. He looked to his companion Mihkail who looked away in shame. Mihkail knew who Rajj was all along. Betrayed by both his idol, and his best friend, he appeared ready to crack. "Why didn't you tell any of us? Why didn't you tell Marina?"

"Because you are all poor actors, and you needed to be dedicated to the cause up until the point I asked this of you, to join us."


Fun Fact of the Day
Much about Shadow society is unknown. One thing that is common knowledge though is the Drishna'Kor, a title given to the strongest, deadliest Shadow, a warrior-assassin that only obeys the will of the mysterious Lord of Shadows. Essentially, what this means is that Rajj, or the Shadow that called itself Rajj, is one of the deadliest assassins in the world. Most likely he could have killed everyone at least at some point, but for his own reasons waited. Of course now he is tied up securely enough that not even he can escape.

It is also known that Shadows immediately recognize one another for who they real are. Shadows cannot lie to Shadows, so that Mihkail knew. In the end, Mihkail stayed loyal to his race, who in turn has been loyal to Avendell.

[JeenLeen]

At the King's rebuke, Chenzion bowed his head and said, "My apologies, my Lord. I do not mean to pry into your secrets. I will trust in your wisdom to inform me if any mystic force should be added to our undertakings. I am glad to hear that Jerrus has none."

---

During preparations, Chenzion was both suprised and not suprised that he was asked to be part of the mission. He agreed with Marina's objections, and openly agreed when apart from Dominius' men. Such was foolishness. He could fight, but he was no fighter. Perhaps he asked too much when asking of the mystics. He had already given the basic notes he had made to some of the King's mechanics and told his plans to the King. Was this a chance to dispose of him?

Well, his life had been in risky situations before, and he had come out well enough. Even if he died, it would be in a way that could bring honor to his family. So be it.

---

He allowed a look of suprise to come to his face. Well, let it. A series of thoughts ran through his head. Was she a potential friend, one who was not a racist that seemed to drive so much of today's politics? Or was she spying on him for the king or his advisors? With a possible death coming soon, Chenzion figured he needn't play things too safe. If he were to die, let it be with someone knowing he is not who he plays.

He turned to her and said, "Lieutenant Commander Revok, such is a dangerous question for a noble from Avendell to answer, perhaps even moreso when he is a diplomat."

With a smile and pause, he added, "I much prefer discussion of culture to discussion of battle or politics, but my Queen has sent me on the latter." And then with a sigh and a more sincere tone than he had shown since setting foot in Honoria, "I do apologize for having to speak with politics in mind even now. Although I imagine saying all that gave you my answer, may I ask you why you ask before I answer in a way that could be truly incrimidating?"

[daelrog]

She gave a heart-felt chuckle at his reply. "Mostly curious Ambassador Casva. After all, should we fail, it will be up to you to negotiate us out of the fire. Well, that and I was wondering the kind of man who would come all this way to ask for a war. Loyal."

She looked away trying to hide her smile, something unbecoming of a soldier. "All of you can relax, at least for awhile. We Blue Caps are barred from taking part in any politics. That doesn't mean we can't be at least curious to what's going on, and what kind of people we're working with."

[RJ45]

"There's a slight problem with all of this." Remedy had her own seat. She was seated in a relaxed manner, cigarette in hand. "You keep mentioning an even worse war for Avendell. That invading those isles will be the ruin of Avendell. You're right. It might. However, what you're about to do will also spell the ruin of Avendell - on the assumption that the Teth are ready to attack, which I have evidence of. They know what is going on. With the human nations fighting amongst themselves, with over fourty-thousand of the best warriors this side of the world has to offer about ready to be sent to their deaths against fellow humans, there is no better time for the Teth to attack."

"I don't exactly agree with everything the Queen has done. I didn't like the slave pits, I don't like the fact that the handmaiden is being used as a bedroom toy, I could go on. The fact remains that she rules Avendell and challenging that, or Dominius, right now will end up wrapping everyone in those 'even worse' wars you were so desperate to avoid."

"You asked my plans. I still plan to see Honoria and Avendell working together to fight for those isles. I plan to see Dominius remain ruler. I will still support Fiorza." She shot a glance around to everyone attending the meeting. Everyone in this room was against her beliefs. Each one. However, she had the courage to continue. This room was not much different from the many tables she had played poker at, with assassins, thieves, murderers, slave runners and every other kind of scoundrel in the world. If she had a voice, she would speak it or she would be muffled out and things would continue to work out of her favor.

"I propose one thing. Show me evidence. Undeniable, irrefutable, unquestionable proof that the Teth have absolutely no interest in beginning a war with any human nation. Proof that they won't attack after both nations are weakened. If you can prove that these things cannot and will not happen, then I will change my mind. Then and there. If you can't... then aren't you putting everyone and everything at risk?"

Remedy inhaled quite a bit of her cigarette. She was able to pretend she was calm - she had a poker face unlike any other. That didn't change how she was feeling. Her heart thumped in her chest. She said such outrageous things that it wouldn't be surprising if they decided to hang her, or worse.

[daelrog]

Halleus responded. "From everything we know now, there are many in Teth that want a war just as much as you do. However, like Avendell, there are those who are doing everything they can to prevent it. Alice... Maurzhul attacked your ship in order to stop negotiations not so Teth would have the upper hand, but to stop the war entirely."

Klaust pitched in. "Even the Queen's most adamant supporters are assuming Teththat Honoria will give us aid. Without Honoria's aid, even the Queen won't be able to muster enough of a dirve to go to war. If Avendell does not go to war, Teth will not have the moral standing to attack first. And trust me firl, the Beserkers have a thing for being the good guys."

Halleus jumped in again, apparently the two had either worked together before, or were natural complements. "You see Remedy, they're just like us, with quarreling factions. However, if Maurzhul returns vicotrious, stopping Honoria's war alliance, he will hold the influence to stop the war on his side. We sit on a delicate crossroads. I'm sorry, but although your approval would be helpful, it's not necessary."

I'll wait until after the weekend for Greystone to respond, or for him to sign on, and then not reply. After that, I'll open up recruitment again for one or two.

[RJ45]

"Where's the evidence? If both nations can't collaborate, that gives Teth an even larger advantage - if anything, shooting down that ship was a sign of things to come. I don't think trying to kill me was a peace treaty. You say he will have the influence to stop the war from his side - he will also have the influence to PROMOTE an attack! Both of you speak of 'trust' and the similarities - but you're ignoring that these are presumptions that all play on risk."

She leaned forward now. She couldn't be relaxed, even if she tried. "I don't care about your approval. I want you to realize that you're putting every human nation, including every Fae and Human here in danger based on your own presumptions about the Teth. You're no different from Fiorza."

"The only difference is you would let them invade the human lands, destroy a human kingdom, let them take territory over here and only question them once they appeared in this very area just as you are to appear to the Honoria of today."

[daelrog]

Klaust leaned forward, mimicking her. He was aging, probably in his late forties or early fifites. Still, she could see that though he was not in his physical prime, he was not far off. "What do you think nations are run on girl? Everything's a presumption. And in case you have forgotten who you are, drug dealer, you are hardly the most qualified to be the one to presume."

Halleus shook his head sadly. "Remedy, it's a charming name for what you do. I was more than surprised that the young woman who preached such high ideals was in such an ill-reputed business."

He stood up. "Remedy, I'm giving you a choice. You may either stay here until this is all done, or you may leave now. A small escort will get you to the nearest city and from there they can send you to either the King or your companions. By the time you reach them, it won't matter any more what you see here. If you leave, Olenna will go with you as well. However, the Drishna'Kor stays."

He didn't have to mention Ryan and Mihkail. Though Ryan was hurt and Mihkail uncertain, they would follow their superior, their friend.

[RJ45]

"I pray, that by some miracle of this world, you are right. That, by some chance, these thousands of lives bring a long peace to every nation." She was disgusted. "I am leaving. There is nothing left for me here." They had revealed her profession. Her beliefs were much different from the rest of those that worked alongside her - they usually only cared about money. Still, Halleus must have thought of her as a upstanding person. This, unfortunately, was not true. She was not an ambassador. She was a criminal. She stood, turned, and started to leave - but ultimately had changed her mind for a brief moment.

"Any chance that the Drishna'Kor comes with me? What fate will he have here? Ryan and Mikhil have made their decisions - I would rather not leave someone as an alone prisoner if it could be avoided... besides, you could be in danger."

She would argue over his freedom as the last act before leaving the conference - with that settled, she would head to the place Olenna was held. She pictured her limbless - the Teth would have tortured her for everything, and with someone as old as her, those tales could go on for days. It didn't help she was still infuriated from the discussion she had with the others before, but it was out of her control now. This wasn't her war. She had no power here.

[JeenLeen]

She was either a superb political spy or someone he could actually get along with. ...well, maybe not superb. The cute soldier flirts with the young noble diplomat and gets the secrets for her lord; kind of cliche, actually. Chenzion chuckled both at her words and expression and at that thought before he replied.

"I can appreciate curiousity. I'm curious about the Teth, and the other races. How did we all come about, or how are we related, if at all? Do Cloudkin share some mystical bond or relation to the air, or the Earth-born--I hope that is not a dangerous word to use around you--with the ground? I'm not a racist, but I'll play one to help my family, my Queen, or your King.

"May I ask your views on the politics here of late? Even if you are forbidden to be involved, I imagine you have your own views. If such is too dangerous to answer, though, I understand."

He ended his words upbeat and with a smile. Could she be a friend?

[daelrog]

Her smile fell a little and she gave a long "Ehhh..." sound from distate of anything political. "Well, since it's only an opinion you want, I thik it's all just one big mess. Everything. From the civil strife to avendell, to Teth, to Sraiks, to the Sanctum Hold is one big mess, and it's at times like these I'm glad I'm a soldier. Well, then again, given our current situation perhaps I should have been a tavern wench. All the perks of not being in politics with only the risk of a few wandering fingers.

"As far as what you're doing, I think it's best to be honest. The truth may harm the moemnt, but a lie will hurt the future, that's what I always say."

"She does."

"Shut up Sebastian. Anyways, like you, I'm just doing my duty. However, unlike you, my curiosity just extends to what I see in front of me. The big stuff can go to other people, like you."


Rajj, or whatever his name was laughed coldly. "No human, they will not release me. If they were wise, they would slit my throat now and be done with it because the moment I am free I will cut a bloody path to my freedom. Go girl from Avendell with that old hag and do what you can for your Queen."

Remedy was led away from the makeshift council by a few humans, civilized humans for a change, from Honoria. It took forty minutes to reach the bottom of the cliff, and antother ten to rech Olenna. Olenna sat peacefully, drinking a cup of tea. Her limbs all appeared to be in tact.

"Oh, so I see you decided to leave then. Good, I was getting bored with the company."


For JeenLeen, I'll leave the rest of the day for chatter, then on Monday, we'll go ahead and move to where Jerrus is.

[RJ45]

Somehow, she had felt as if she betrayed Rajj. They didn't know eachother well - but she was leaving him as a captive slave without putting up much else of a fight than a few words. She had left that council, and felt immediate relief. That was over. She could only move forward. As she traveled down to where Olenna was, she had learned the true extent of this camp. Gigantic. At least it was downhill.

The moment she was with Olenna, she immediately opened up. "Grandma - it's great to see you're still in one piece! I heard the Teth captured you and pictured the worst. The beasts... I hope they didn't do anything too terrible. As you can see... i've been living out here for a long while. I can't wait to get out of this place. I never want to see a tree again." She combed one hand through her dirty, terribly-groomed blonde hair. "But enough about me. Tell me about how you've had it." She ignored asking Olenna about her future plans or about any information she might have learned. Remedy cared about Olenna more than those things - at least for now.

[JeenLeen]

He smiled back at her. "Well, I can agree it's a mess. It's nice to know I'm working with someone honest." With a pause and what he hoped was humor, he added, "Not that I think I've been lied to by anyone since coming here, but being political almost always means not really being honest, even if no lies have been spoken."

"I am surprised, though, that the military can stay so out of politics. If they are avoiding it, how do Viscral and others get their men? And if that's too annoying a question, I'll add a better one: how did you choose to become a soldier of Honoria instead of, say, a tavern wench?"


How many days have passed since arriving in Honoria? And since meeting Dominius?

I get the sense it was a couple days waiting for the King to return, but from then it's been just one day... which is possible, but a busy day.

[daelrog]

Good question. Let me look over the game thus far this weekend and I'll have your answer in a day or two with a timeline for all the characters

"Viscarl has his own house guard. All the nobles in Honoria have their own standing forces. The Blue Caps are a part of the Royal Guard, who belong directly to the King. Most of the nobles have given their military to the support to the King. However, Viscarl holds more forces than any other single noble, including the King. That, mixed with the fact he's dug in makes him one tough customer to our raids and assaults.

"Why am I not a tavern wench? Well, right now I don't have a good reason. However back in the day it was for a guy. Thought I'd chase him through basic training, get an engagement ring out of him. Unfortunately he ended up chasing every other skirt but mine He also ended up a lousy soldier and got him and his platoon wiped out some years back when the Alters had their rebellion. By then it wasn't a really big deal, I'd moved on, not that I wished that kind of fate for him. As for me, well, turns out I was a soldier by nature. Sharp eye, fast reflexes, and something the higher ups call battle knowledge. Still don't know what that means entirely. To be honest I was planning on getting out of the service after a few years, but since I didn't really have an alternative, and sense I'm still enjoying the sense of adventure in it all, might as well stick it out."


Olenna sighed. "Well, not a lot happened really. I spoke to Maurzhul a few times. That one has quite the sense of justice, a bit misguided and warped mind you, but he seemed intent to make himself out to be the very image of honor. Other than that, there's little to say. It's not the first time I've been a captive. I only regret that I didn't have the chance to speak with Colonel Klaus. It matters little though. What is important is that he knows who all of us are, and what we are supposed to do for the Queen. Now that they know that, they have the means to stop us."

[RJ45]

"Things aren't looking bright. I know." Remedy found her own seat at the table. "At least you're alive. I'm very glad for that." She leaned back in the chair. A moment of silence. "What would you suggest we do? Really, we've got ourselves in quite the pinch. Who is right? Who is wrong? Right now, the only safe idea I have is getting ourselves to Honoria, analyzing the real damages and losses, and seeing what we can do. I want to talk to the Queen, but we've been barred from contact while i've been held out here."

"I refuse to give up. I didn't join this for profit - I joined because I want to see a brighter future for Avendell and Honoria. They might know how to stop us, but there are things that not even they have control over. Getting to Honoria, discovering and fighting for the cause I deem right is in my agenda. What about you? What do you want to do? If you wanted to go home after such a terrible event, I can understand."

[daelrog]

Olenna started laughing. "Please child, I am not feable. I think I've endured much worse. Actually, so far this whole thing has been one of the easier errands I have run for the Queen. No, I think it is time we left with our escort and see what we can do within the heart of Honoria.

"As for what I want to do? My dear girl, I am the Queen's spymaster. My work is my life." He smiled, a look that Remedy knew all too well from working in the undercity. She enjoyed the manipulation, the lies, the danger.

[RJ45]

"Yeah. I'm sick of this place. Let's get out of here." There was a smile on her face. Olenna and her had a common ground in this. "We've got countries to save. Wars to start. Negotiations to make. Yeah. This is only the beginning." Remedy seemed brighter than a moment ago. She stood from her seat, motivated to continue. "As large as those goals are, though, they'll need to wait on a hot bath, an hour infront of a mirror, and some better repairs on my clothes. I suppose I could see about those on the way. I can't believe they live like that."

[Sinistral]

"Indeed. We have much to do. While you make yourself presentable, perhaps you could tell me of your adventures with the king of Honoria's brother. I have grasped the basics of the political situation, but hearing the intimate details of your conversations with him could be very telling. And then we can work on finding a way out of this mess." Olenna was surprised to find herself happy at seeing her fellow ambassador alive and well. It was good to finally talk to someone who at least acted like a friend.

[RJ45]

"It's not as eventful as it sounds." They had time to themselves - between walking and journeying to the town on their way, she could tell her the entire story. "One of the smaller ships from the Halberd crashed in the wilderness. The Baron died in a fight with some mongrel... ugh." She couldn't speak of it as some ordinary event. "From there, I walked for days, non-stop, across barren terrain and forests. That's why I look so horrible. Finally the Fae brought me to Halleus, who explained his position. He wants peace. He believes the Teth are 'chosen' and generally would see to the races getting along. Heartwarming. Unfortunately, it doesn't help Avendell one bit. If the Teth attacked Avendell, he would see the fall of Avendell before raising a finger - with the Teth having their own secured lands on the human continent, it would be much, much easier for them to do away with the other two."

"Short story, I walked forever. Long story, I walked forever and argued with him about politics that ultimately did nothing. They believe that peace will be found by making peace with the Teth. Our queen believes that peace can be guaranteed by taking the land that divides us. I know that you're aware of the political situation, but that's honestly all we argued about. I also had the chance to explore a slave pit. Fiorza is doing underhanded things behind the people's back. Prisoners, the poor and the unlucky alike are stuffed into a scalding-hot pit where they work themselves to death mining ores. He showed me this in hopes of changing my opinions. When I asked him why he would not build his own nation and leave Honoria alone, he mentioned that his brother ordered the execution of their mother. There's more to that story, but he wouldn't say. He also kept trying to prove to me that the Fae were not savage, time and time again."

[daelrog]

The two ladies had time to catch up on their journey to the city of Kindermoore, a small city on the border between Dominius's holdings and Viscarl's realm. A force of ten humans on Honorian descent led them. They rode on hroses, and though it was a relief from walking, it still left Remedy sore around the thighs. Olenna strangely was unaffected. Then again, very little affected the Queen's spy master.

Upon their arrival, their hosts left without a word. Even at the gates they could see there was tension in the air. On the border between two pwoers readying for war, it was only a matter of when their home was besieged, not if. On their arrival, a small honor guard was assembled.

A young man with slicked, black hiar, and a scar running down his cheek stepped forward. "We have been notified of your arrival. Please accompany us to their castle. The Baroness of Kindermoore is expecting your arrival.

Right, so here is the rough timeline.
Day 0: 12 Citizens of Avendell are requested to see the Queen
Day 1 (Everyone): Everyone meets Fiorza and gets the rundown of their mission. They go to the Halberd and set off
Day 2 (Everyone): Teth Attacks. Through teamwork, one of their ships fall, but the team is split.
Day 3 (Remedy): The Baron is killed in the morning. He rest are saved by Marnu and some others.
Day 3 (Olenna): Olenna converses with Maurzhul. She soon discovers that his intention is not to drive information out of her but to convert her, using her status as an Alter, and her status as the Queen’s slave to bare.
Day 7 (Remedy): The group finally arrives in Halleus’s camp
Day 7 (Chenzion): The group finally arrives at the port of Grishelm. By night, they have met the King, albeit briefly, in the banquet hall.
Day 8(Remedy): Journey to the Pale Waste, and a night spent there as well.
Day 8 (Chenzion): First meeting with the King, and second meeting with the King.
Day 9 (Remedy): Leave the Pale Waste for the Dreamwood.
Day 9 (Olenna): Olenna comes face to face with the traitor, Klaus. What happens is only known to those two.
Day 9 (Chenzion): Chenzion has his last and final meeting thus far with the King and the plan is set.
Day 11 (Remedy and Olenna): Both finally meet at the war camp of the rebels and get ready to leave.
Day 10-13 (Chenzion): Travelling to the southeast border.
Day 12-13 (Remedy and Olenna): Arrive at Kindermoore.

[RJ45]

Remedy had thought, for a short while, she had escaped the war entirely. It seemed like a distant memory already, as they had traveled for days. Upon entering that city, Remedy was instantly reminded the moment she could see those gates. For one reason or another, she even felt a twinge of guilt. A bad ambassador. If someone more skilled would have been present, this war wouldn't happen. Reflecting on possibilities wouldn't have Avendell safe - with that in mind, Remedy could continue.

"Arrival or not, I bet she has a bit much to attend to." Remedy couldn't even smile or speak light-heartedly. She was looking at corpses. Nobody here would survive after Halleus and his allies were done. The younger man spoke as if he was taught to say such things. Their audience with the Baroness was very unlikely to change the fact that this town would see a war like never before take place before its very gates.

"Hand-in-hand, Olenna. Humans, Alters, Shadows and Cloudkin are supposed to be hand-in-hand, not holding blades to eachother's throats. It's f***ing disgusting, and there's not a damned thing we can do about it."

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion smiled at her. She was upfront and honest... well, that or a superb spy and liar, but he preferred to believe the former.

He replied, "A born soldier; I can relate to that feeling. I feel like I was a born scientist. I really enjoy working out the puzzles of how things work. I love my family and will do whatever I can for them, but sometimes I think it would be easier if I were some inventor in a House's employ and not the heir. It's nice to talk to someone without too much concern that what I say will enter the wrong ear."

With a sigh, he added, "I hope we have the chance for pleasant conversation again in the next few days. It seems odd to me that I'm on this mission. I can fight, but I'm not a soldier, not trained for it. I guess I can hack any security-tech he might have, but I'm guessng you have someone specialized for that. I hate to bring thoughts to business, but who all of the Blue Caps is coming and what are their specialty skills, and what do you know of the defenses we'll be likely to encounter?"

[daelrog]

I've started up a new recruitment thread. No applicants yet, but we'll see how it goes. I'm giving recruitment one week. If you want, you guys can post on it to say 'OMG, BeSt game evER!' of something of the sorts.:smallwink:

The days to reach their destination went by quickly for Chenzion. Lieutenant Colonel Dira Revok seemed a breath of fresh air to the politics. Though not completely devoid poltical opinions from her thought that soldiers shouldn't get taxes 'just cause' to her idea that perahps nations should compete in cooking tournaments instead of in strength of arms. Then again, to the latter she claimed Honoria would probably lose every time, so maybe it wasn't a good idea.

The landscape changed a couple of times. First, the plains turned into a barren, muddy land, then changed again to a sparse forest that was starting to gain in altitude.

Revok briefed everyone one last time. "Right, so we're about five miles from where Jerru's main camp is. Latest reports have said that the majority of his forces are idle in the nearby towns. Marina, you and Chnzion reach the peak, your job is to provide lookout below and make sure nothing funny occurs.

"The six of us [the Blue Caps and Garret] will make our way down. One shot from each of us, take down Jerrus and the two priests next in line to take over his duties. If the priests are craft, they'll notice that the guns we drop and the bullets we used come from Viscarl's realm. It'll look like his men are trying to frame us.

"Now. anything else to cover before we set off?" She handed Chenzion a communicator and an earpiece.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion paused. He thought for a moment that the doctor's going with them was odd, but it was not his place to question that.

"What's our escape plan? Also, is our communication secure enough not to give them warning, and do we know the current location of Karnak's manifestation? Other than that, nothing that I can think of. Captain Marina?"

[daelrog]

Marina shook her head slightly. The Alter seemed to speak very little when she was tense, even less than usual. Most likely she knew the full gravity of the situation.

"Well, escape plan is going to be pretty simple on this one. We'll be splitting up immediately in groups of two. The Doctor and I will meet up with you back here. The other two pairs will split off and draw as much of the search as possible. No worries on the communications, last time we checked, they were still using wirtten messages to communicate everything. Shouldn't be expecting any other ers on the airwarves.

"For Karnak though, I'd imagine he's going to right next to Jerrus when it happens. This whole thing is a gamble Chenzion. Out best hope is that either you're right, and it may not be the actual god, or that he doesn't care enough to do anything about it once we kill his favored priest."

With that, they set off.

Will have more on this later today. I'll wait for Sinistral's reaction to Kindermoore before moving on with that part.

[JeenLeen]

Releasing a tense breathe, Chenzion replies, "Alright. Let's go then."

He almost said, "The gods be with you," but it was quite the opposite prayer they needed this night. He glanced back at Revok as they split up, hoping to see her again. An assassination attempt against someone with a god beside him! Well, perhaps it was an illusion.

[daelrog]

After a long and grueling hike and climb, Marina and Chenzion reached their designated point. They found no lookouts or scouts along the way, not even a sign. The priests were not expecting an attack. After all, who would challenge a god? Who would challenge their god?

Marina took the binoculars first scanning a crater below, then handing it to Chenzion.

He saw dozens of priests and a few mercenaries walking around a light camp. In the center of it all, there was no mistaking Jerrus. He sat atop a small wodden throne. His bald head were covered in tattoos, though even with the binoculars he could not tell what they were. However it was not that, that made Jerrus stand out, it was what was next to him.

A being that appeared of fire and obsidian stood by him, over twelve-feet high. It no eyes, or ears, only snapping mouths that sprouted out and came back in slowly. If the thing noticed something was amiss, it did not show it.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion looked down at the being, but did not let his gaze linger upon it long. Who knew what senses it had? He tried to focus, keeping his thoughts clear of any fear or nervousness about the creature.

Instead, he scanned the area, looking for any sign of detection or alarm.

[daelrog]

Chenzion found none. Not then, and not in the ten, long minutes it took for the Blue Caps to get into place. Though he did not see them, Marina pointed them out for him. They did not have a clear shot to their target.

Slowly, six figures began to move into the camp, and Chenzion could hear soft whispers coming from Marina's ear piece. He only heard the Alter's voice.

"Stay put.'

"Move twenty paces, then turn left."

"Kill the guard around the corner."

It was like watching a board game, seeing the pieces trying to sneak ccloser and closer without being seen, up until Team C reached the clearing. One of them took aim, and fired.

All was still at that moment as the gunshots echo filled up the crater. In another moment, all turned to chaos. The voices in Marina's ear were now loud and clear. Revok's vocie shot above the others.

"Damn it Fanth! You were to wait, damn you!"

"I had the shot, I ha-"

They were all surrounded, the camp had been easy enough to get in, but there was no way they could escape. One fell to priest wielding a knife, coming at him from behind. Mirval, the other female Blue Cap in the small party was shot by a pair of mercenaries as she was trying to reach the clearing.

Doctor Garret Copa was run through. He didn't even draw his gun.

Before Chenzion could see the fate of the others, the back of his neck became alight. He turned around to see the spectacle that claimed itself a god right behind him. Marina spun and fired into the beast, whatever seemed like its head, but ot no avial. It battered her aside, and closed in on the Ambassador. All went dark.

I will point out at this time, that I actually expected the assassination to work out. WIth a challenge of 4 I decided, I figured rolling a d6, and two d8, that one of them would get a 4 or under. However, as you can see in the OOC thread it didn't, but that's okay. Fialure is fun too.

Chenzion awoke to see himsellf tied up, and in the middle of the enemy camp. Revok, Marina, and one of her subordinates were also with him, still alive, but for how long? Perhaps worst of all, Chenzion could see the renegade priest Jerrus still, alive, cluthing a cloth to his neck. It had just missed the artery.

At seeing Chenzion awake, the priest spoke.

"You tried to defile a god?! You dared go against his will." His anger seemed to vanish in a moment replaced by a calm, collective cool. It was said that the priests most connected to their god often had trouble with controlling their emotions. "Why? Who are you?"

[JeenLeen]

Is Chenzion the only one awake?

Chess, the battle looked like. Was he here to guard the King or Queen? A pawn against a bishop? Well, then let the weak try to find and do what he can. As Revok said, if things went this way, it was his job to talk them out of it. His Queen was a blasted fool to send him on this mission.

With a groan, and mustering what strength he can and hoping to gain some time, he replied with sincere regret, "My apologies to you and... I would offer apologies to the Lord Karnak, but I feel at this point that I am not worthy to make any remark directly to Him and I hope even reference to His name is pardoned."

Please let that buy a little time to assess the situation, he silently prayed to... well, to most of the gods.

[daelrog]

Yes, only Chenzion is awake at this point.

At first he Priest seemed taken aback at the flattery, then his eyes were cruel once again. He was pale from his wound, and appeared dizzy by the way he held onto his throne arm.

Jerrus was a thing man, though fairly tall. An aesthetic life of a priest saw that he had no fat on his body. However, he was a man, unlike the beast that stood behind him.

"Answer me ques-"

Silence.

Jerrus's eyes widened, but his mouth stopped immediately.

The god began to conulse upon itself, its features and form twisting until it began to shrink to a mere seven feet. It now had the visage of a humanoid, one with wild hair made of hair, and two burning pits for eyes.

You are bold to come here, and wise enough to hold your tongue when captured. However, I wonder if that is the extent of your qualities mortal. Why did you try to kill my priest? Speak clearly and do not idle on needless words.

[JeenLeen]

"As you wish, Lord Karnak. I came here as part of this group to assassinate the leader of this faction in the war for controlling Honoria, in order that the faction I was sent to aid may prosper and in hopes of making elimination of the other factions more possible."

What would his reponse be? Could Chenzion possibly lie and blame this on Viscral...

"Lord Karnak, if I reveal who sent me, then even if I survive to leave this camp, I have little faith that I will survive when I return to whom I am serving." That much was true; no doubt Dominius would have his head if he brought the wraith of Karnak and the other priests rallied against him. "I know I am in no place to negotiate, and more likely than not you can take the information I wish to conceal from my mind. But--forgive my boldness--I require some assurances or, to be honest, threats if I am to betray who sent me."

[daelrog]

Karnak waited for a moment, and then smiled, revealing nothing but ash and death inside. The world disappeared.


Chenzion qas now on a barren plane where the sky burned and not a living thing stirred.

"Where am I?"

Your are in my domain. You soul is in that place of existence where the gods exist. You are in the plane of concepts, or thoughts, of ideals, and within that plane of existence you are within me.

Your soul tells me you come from the human nation of Avendell. You have come to Honoria to start a war, one with Teth. Interesting. A war between great powers, one the likes I have not seen in hundreds of years. It would be a war wehre ten of thousand,s hundreds of thousands would die, where heroes would rise and fall. History woudl remember such an event for millenia. At least, so longer as the vicotr survives to tell of it for millenia.

They were back in the crater, the god barely a hair's length away from his face.

I was summoned forth by the priest Jerrus who thought Dominius to be weak, ap thetic child controlled by what you call drugs. However, you from Avendell seem to think Dominius would lead to an even greater nation, yours. Is this so?

[JeenLeen]

"Back in the crater" meaning back in the camp, or in a crater in Karnak's realm? If I'm in the camp around Jerrus and his follows, I whisper the following.

So, he was the god. Fearful but with a spark of growing hope, Chenzion replied with what confidence he could:

"You speak true. I have come, albeit for my own reasons, to help start a war between an allied front of Honoria and Avendell against the Teth. I personally agree with your priest's assessment of Dominius; he is a selfish child, harsh and rash. However, he is able to fight, and both willing and able to cause the great war and glory you speak of. Lord Karnak, if Dominius is allowed to rule, a great nation would form. Whether it is Avendell in its glory after victory over the Teth, or even perhaps a single nation where Avendell and Honoria now stand--I know not the mind of my Queen Fiorza, but I could see such ambition in her heart--it would be grand.

"Your priest is wise in saying that Dominius on his own would not be a strong ruler. But along with Avendell, great glory can come. Millenia of glory, as you said, if you or even your followers would support him."

[daelrog]

Strength as a whole through one's weakness? An interesting concept, one I've witnesses, though not as often as one would think. Still, those islands your Queen seeks... suffice to say, she may not find what she is looking for in the ruins. On that matter there is nothing more to say.

Very well. I am intrigued enough to let things continue without my intervention. You may ALL act as you see fit.

The other prisoners were awake by now, each hearing a different extent of the conversation. Their bonds disappeared in fire, and they were left alone in the middle of a camp of Karnak's priests, without their god.

Karnak was nowhere to be seen, but this was only half a blessing, for many of the priests, Jerrus included seemed on edge. After all Chenzion had just ruined their dreams of glory, and after all, Karnak gave them ALL permission to do what they wanted.


Olenna and Remedy were led through the streets to the small keep. Kindermoore was a charming city, the cities color were warm borwns and deep reds for the msot part, matching the Baronesses livery.

Upon entering the fortress, they saw that the Baroness's chair was at the very end of the main hall. She was an aging woman, late forties to early fiftes by her dark hair with its fair share of greys. She smiled warmly as they approached.

Olenna couldn't help but notice the man to her right, an old man with a thick, white mustache and a scar across his forehead. He was one of Dominius's four main advisors, Ersthelm Wince.

[RJ45]

"So, you must be the Baroness I've heard so much about. It's good to meet you, although I don't know how you can smile what with the horrible things outside your doorstep." Remedy cut directly to the point without the flowery speech. She really was never good at it. "Can anything be done about it?" She construed that smile as some form of good - that by some sorcery or another her beautiful city would remain intact. Having Olenna around for company made her feel better. The long time she had spent in the wildernesses bearing the title of 'ambassador' and yet not changing the opinion of any made her feel rather... worthless. Of course, she couldn't feel like that now. She had to do her best - for the sake of Avendell, for the sake of Honoria, and for the sake of Kindermoore.

Still, Remedy was most curious why the Baroness had called the two of them here. It was very unlikely that it was a cosmetic meeting.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion sat up, glancing around quickly to assess the situation, but trying to keep his face straight on Jerrus.

With a bow at the waist, Chenzion said to him: "High priest Jerrus, I apologize for the rudeness with which we met. But, as you no doubt heard, Lord Karnak can see an even greater glory manifest if Honoria follows the path the young King Dominius will tread. Let us not think of what will follow just around us, but what glory and battle, what strength and heroism, as the Lord Karnak loves, will come from the path those I represent wish to see the King tread."

He looks Jerrus straight in the eyes, trying to hold a composure of strength. Chenzion had talked a god of war into letting him persue this. Perhaps he could talk a priest of war into helping him persue this. And if the priest didn't kill him, perhaps when word of Chenzion's speech reached Dominius, he could convince the King not to kill him as well.

How many priests around us, and how are they armed? Are besides Jerrus wounded, and what is the status of Marina and the Blue Caps? Any weapons against a wall somewhere nearby?

[daelrog]

Jerrus bit back some biting comment, and fought between anger and amusement. "You... came here with a team of assassins, and call it rudeness. He walked up to Chenzion, slanted his head as if curious, pushing his forward against Chenzion as if they were two beasts fighting for mates and territory. Perhaps they were.

"I do not know whether you are the world's greatest coward, or the bravest one."

He moved his head away. The priests in general had their own forms of etiquette. At least he wasn't a Priest of Lilana. They tended to act very intimately. "Go. We will discuss what we are to do now Dominius holds temporary favor from Karnak. Tell him we recognize his sovereignty." He turned to the Blue Cap called Fanth and gave a ruefull smile. Pale, with a bloody rag still hanging on his neck, stuck on when the blood dried, and even humbled by his deity, Jerrus still was imposing, perhaps moreso. "You. Next tiime hold your breath in your lungs, not your heart."

With that, he walked away.

It was a sober walk back to to the meeting point where their transportation waited, a small truck with tracks. Though they had accompished their goal, it wasn't without a price. Three of the Blue Caps and the Doctor had died, their bodies left with the priests to be given the proper funeral of those who died in Karnak's name, by fire. His ashes would find their way to his wife.

As they sat down in the back and the truck's engines turned on, Revok spoke, though in little more than a whisper. "I was ordered to include Doctor Copa on the mission. Apparently his family back in Avendell wanted to give him another chance to being the soldier he was bred to be... I'm so sorry."


The old man spoke up against Remedy. "Hmph. looks like the ambassador has forgotten her manners in the company of the rebels. You are speaking to Baroness Chandra Kindermoore, not some common maiden whose smile can so easily be questioned." He quieted down as Chandra's hand went up.

"No, it is all right. I am sure her time with Halleus has painted a bleak picture for our nation. The young, handsome boy was always one to focus on the evils of the world. No, young woman, I am not smiling. It is my normal expression for greeting guests. I have found that by smiling, even when I do not feel like it, doors are opened to women where they would otherwise be closed. Take my late husband for example. Without smiling through his petty jokes and drawling conversations would I have become his wife when there were many others competing for the same spot? Without smiling through our marriage how could I have prevented him from siring a dozen bastard children, all who could have claimed what is now mine?

"Still though, even in war, not is all tragic my dear. Despite its appearance on the outside, we are thriving under the wartime economy. I have good standing with both the Urdaeus boys and Duke Viscarl, so my city is safe for the moment. All sides have promised warning should the city need to be evacuated. For now things are satisfactory." The way she spoke, the way her eyes glimmered. She was a master of courtly intrigue and not someone to be underestimated. However, she did seem genuinely pleased to be in the company of Remedy and Olenna.

"Please, go and refresh yourselves. As you can see, guests who do seek accomodation with the keep have to see me before they are refreshed. I had my chair moved here to make it so. You'd be surprised how many times that has worked to my favor, to see otherwise pompous men looking unseemly." She smiled, trying to imply that it did not apply to the two Avendell women. "Though I'll tell you one bit of news first. It appears our young Halleus has started his war. In only a few days he's routed Dominius's loyal forces up their and has formed an impressive defensive line north of Viscarl's territory. Now to get to Halleus, Dominius will have to go through Viscarl first. How intriguing of a plan." She let the thought go as a small army of maidens ushered the two to the guest accomodations where they could be cleaned.

[RJ45]

As the Baroness continued on, Remedy's look of worry disappeared. It was a minor relief to be told that the appearances on the outside were slightly deceiving. Remedy was groomed slightly better than before, but she was still a wreck of an ambassador. Thankfully, if the Baroness knew about Halleus and the ways that he survived, this might not have been seen as a terrible insult. "Alright. See you soon."

She was brought to the guest chambers. "Wow. I, uhh..." Remedy spoke to Olenna. "I can't help but feel that... well, she's definitely earned her throne... I suppose. It's tragic, though. I understand that higher-nobles and the such have to do these things, but playing one's entire life by a fake smile?" Of course, she was aware who she was talking to. Olenna was the same. "It has to be incredibly painful to endure. Olenna, if you ever have feelings or things you need to vent, you can tell me. Just cut out the important bits, hmm?"

That white-whiskered old man knew how to invoke worry in Remedy. Good thing that the Baroness felt her own way, otherwise things would have ended terribly. "So, Dominius is going to be fighting both factions at once. That's not good. Indirectly, that's forcing both of those factions to be allied - in the rough sense that Dominius has to defeat them both... Olenna, what do you think?" The chatter between the two might have been interrupted by the guest chambers - Remedy wanted a nice, warm bath to soak herself in, a good mirror to comb herself in, perhaps some other garments to change herself into so that she could clean her other clothes somewhat... ugh. They weren't fit for an ambassador. What she really needed to do was to send it to one of the tailors of Kindermoore - unfortunately, she might not have had the time or luxury of doing such.

At least she was no longer walking over mountain and field with savage Fae.

[JeenLeen]

On the silent walk back, one thought mostly reverberated through Chenzion's mind: 'I am alive.' In the back of his mind were scrambling thoughts: what import would the deaths on their side have, would Jerrus' support remain, would Dominius hear of Chenzion's insults and have his head, Revok's sadness, future plans. But amidst it all, the single thought was the focus: I am still alive.

When Revok spoke, at first he didn't comprehend her words. After a moment, his brain processed it. It made little sense. Garret seemed opposed to the war, the little bit that Chenzion knew him, and he seemed happy enough to be with his family. Did he want to be a soldier again, deep down, or was that a lie spread by Fiorza for her own machinations. Or by Dominius for his. The doctor... we all had our letters. What information died with him?

He turned to Revok and replied, "Soldiers have to obey orders. It doesn't make the pain or regret less, but the fault is not with you." Almost unconsciously, he placed his hand upon hers, moving to hold her hand. "His family will know he died with honor."

After saying those last words, a part of him that had been in shock awoke. What was he doing? Was this affection something real, or just a grasping after the stress of the assault and its aftermath? And, real or not, if he drew Dominius' ire, what would it mean...

[daelrog]

I'll leave Sinistral to answer Remedy, at least for a couple days before I take Olenna over temporarily again.

Revok didn't reutrn the gesture by placing her other hand over his, but then again, she didn't pull away either. Chenzion couldn't tell if she tightened her grip, or he did first. Of course, for the veteran Blue Cap, her sorrow wasn't from any shock of war, but the gnawing, slow churning pain of not only facing the recent deaths, but all those that had come before.

"I wasn't completely honest before Chenzion. We all have our opinions about our own civil war, and of potential war with Teth. It's just that in the military we're taught that our opinion is probably wrong, and even if it's right, it doesn't matter.

"I'm good at war Ambassador. That's all."

There wasn't nearly as much talkingon the way back. Word was received that they were to meet the King at the capital of Honoria, the city was finally starting to be cleared from Grand Marshal Eios's failed assault.

Also this weekend, I plan to update the first post of the OOC thread with all the new characters and stuff to help keep track.

[daelrog]

Olenna shurgged her shoudlers. "I think there is still a lot to happen before the fighting continues." It appeared that she too was eager to have her bath.

It took nearly two hours, but both women were bathed, cleaned, and prepared for a more thorough inspection by the Baroness. Arriving for dinner, they noticed that it was much more quaint than a grand feasthall. As if knowing thier thoughts, Lady Kindermoore answered. "We don't care for the vast feasts that others do. It generally leads to wasted food. If you require more than what's on your plate, simply ask and it will be brought.

I'll be getting the whole team together fairly soon. Hopefully by mid-week.

[RJ45]

A good soak, a good scrub, a good long while infront of the mirror. Indeed, this is precisely what Remedy had asked for, and indeed she had savored every bit of it. Refreshed in many senses, Remedy was prepared. After a good moment to clean her dress, it wasn't as damaged as she had thought. The thick fabric allowed it to endure what it should have not, but at least from the initial appraisal and knowing what it had gone through, it looked destroyed. It needed touching up, but that would be for a later time.

Soon enough, she was prepared. Remedy arrived in a modest fashion - a cleanlier version of herself, bearing very little makeup. She was greeted to the dining hall by the grandest feast she had ever seen - that is, after her meals with the Fae, this was even greater than that she had on the Halberd. Remedy at least knew that of which the Lady spoke - there were no heaping piles or overflowing dishes. "This is definitely grand enough!" she spoke up, definitely happy.

Remedy took a utensil in her hand and began at the non-savage meal. It was up to the Baroness to start the conversation - Remedy could only wonder why she was here to begin with; she was to be on her way to Honoria... correct?

[daelrog]

You are in Honoria already. Honoria = country. Kindermoore - city within Honoria.

The Baroness looked upon her guests with pleasure. "So I am told that each of you have already had quite an adventure so far. I must admit it has been years since I've had such a tale, and would wnjoy hearing from your own mouths what happened."

[RJ45]

Shoot, I meant the capital city. I'll have to backread and find it later.

I backread, and I couldn't find it. I did notice that Chenzion was lucky enough to be in [city name] since almost page 3

Remedy finished what was in her mouth. It was a long tale. "We were on our way to Honoria from Avendell. Our ship caught fire and some of the ambassadors got into the escape vessels. I was... 'lucky' enough to get thrown out of the ship and crash into the wilderness. For a day we were surrounded by wild beasts, and right after losing a well-known companion to the beasts, a group of Halleus' Fae arrived. I traveled across the wilderness, across the forests, beneath the forests, over the barren landscapes... I feel as if I must have walked just about everywhere. Halleus brought me along and eventually showed me his army. He wants to bring an end to Dominius, although I'm sure that's more than obvious by now."

She purposely avoided mentioning the Teth. She purposely avoided mentioning her own feelings about the Fae. These were unimportant details that did not need to be mentioned - especially the Teth part. It would work against them if Honoria knew that Teth had already made the first move.

"It's not so grand a tale. The only hero didn't survive to the end. Most of it on my half was walking and putting up with Halleus. I can at least understand, at least to a certain point, why he fights for what he does." Remedy's smile had weakened. She was happy to be here of all places, but being forced to remember everything that happened invoked painful memories.

[daelrog]

"You are an interesting one... Remedy. I have not yet met one of the ladies of Honoria who would not sell her parents and have her sister beaten to court with dear Halleus. Of course, this rebellion may change that, depending on how it turns.

"As much as I would like to dally on small points and share laughs at the expense of the nobles you have yet to meet, time is pressing for us. You are to go to Asarius, our delightful capital tomorrow night. The King has ordered as such." She truly seemed disappointed at this, but let her plastic smile return. "Now then, I believe we can help one another. Right now your cause stands to lose. Even Dominius would not go against the greater whole of his loyal staff, and as of now, most have nothing to gain of helping your war." She put up her hand before Remedy could explain the threat of Teth. "Teth is no threat to Honoria. Avendell and Teth have roughly the same strength, and by the time Teth finished with Avendell, that is if they managed to win, they would be far too weakened to challenge us, and would most likely not even be able to hold onto the two islands. Such a war would give us years to recover from our current problems and be ready if need be.

"However my dears, I may yet be able to sway a sizeable portion of the ruling caste to your cause if it is owrht my while. Please, tell me what you can offer me. Oh, and please do not speak of the superiority of mankind. That argument does not work on even the most narrow-minded Honorian. Our unfavorable losses to the Sraiks Empire have shown us not to think so lowly of others. So then, what do you offer?" She leaned in, a predatory look in her eye.

[RJ45]

"Name it. At the end of the day, a good deed isn't going to put you in a big bed." It was a simple fact of life, and Remedy wasn't about to preach to the Baroness about this. The question remained - what did she want? It seemed as if she had everything. Anything beyond her current point was merely cosmetic. Remedy shot a glance around, checking for ears. Guards, the elderly advisor, or anyone else who might be spectating. If nobody was around, they could get into better detail.

"I might not be able to offer it to you immediately - more than likely I cannot, as I've spent all my time recently with Halleus. Name it, and in coming weeks, it might just happen to find itself among your other possessions." Remedy couldn't keep a smile on. Negotiations. Soon enough, they would be coming down to values - this didn't mean that she had become angry at the Baroness, it was simply Remedy's business demeanor. "I would wonder what someone such as yourself, who seemingly has everything, would desire." She had meant it as a compliment. Kindermoore was a beautiful city, and the Baroness had been very welcoming.

[daelrog]

The old advisor to the King was not present, and somehow Olenna was not either. Only the two women, and a small host of her maids busying themselves were present.

"Seemingly everything, but not everything. Oh no, there is always more my dear girl. You may one day realize this. Take your Queen, she stands even higher than I, yet she desires to expand her territory. Trading rights, serfs, jewels. I am sure your countrymen will have a good mind for a reasonable offer.

"By the way. As you were refreshing yourself, I received word of your comrades. They were successful in quelling Jerrus's little rebellion. Unfortuantely the messenger reported that one of your own had fallen. Some dcotor who was a son of a General. The rest are on their way to the capital now.

"But besides that, tell me Remedy, do you think Halleus will be able to overthrow his brother. Between us girls, Viscarl doesn't stand a cahcne against either, not in thel ong run. No, it will be an Urdaeus boy who rules Honoria. I'd like to hear your thought on the matter."

[RJ45]

"I'm glad they met success with Jerrus's rebellion, but I'm tired about hearing about the death of my acquaintances. It's so..." she couldn't finish her statement. It was quite obvious how annoyed she was. The Baron left her feeling helpless, as if there was something she could have done - and now this. Maybe if she had stayed off of that little vessel that fell from the ship, she could have stopped him. Maybe.

"About Viscarl... it depends. Viscarl will fall, one way or another - at least thus far. If Dominius attacks straightforwardly and crushes Viscarl, he will still have an edge against Halleus - but not so great the one he has now. The only way Viscarl is stepping away is if they somehow become the allies of either faction or manage to escape. They can't afford to stand as the shield of those they don't support..." Remedy was thinking about it. There was a certain truth. "In the end, nobody is going to win. Countless lives will be lost between the both of them. In my opinion, Dominius is going to be the one left standing. He has better access to resources, the largest military strength, and the better weapons. Few seem to care about all the lives between all of this - by the end of these wars, Honoria is going to need a long, nice peace to raise families."

Good. They were relatively alone. It's sort of unnerving, however. Halleus was too open. The Baroness, too, seemed open. How easy it would be if Remedy were an assassin. "Land, tariffs, minerals, Wisp, a mix of it all, anything. If it can be named, it is something I can bring to you. I don't act it, but I have far more access to far more things than most nobles." She would have to start her operation in Honoria if this were to come true. It was a circumstance she had already predicted - not because of the Baroness, but because of Halleus.

Without a doubt, the markets were catering to the war on both sides. Things like this always had. If Remedy could exploit the demand for drugs, play the market more dangerously than she had ever before, and buy out everything going to Halleus, Viscarl, or anywhere but Dominius or Avendell, they would be crippled like never before. Of course, it wasn't something Remedy could do overnight, and it would hinge on her negotiations with Dominius himself.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion said little for the rest of the trip, letting the silence prevail. She was good at war. She was in her element. He was not good at politics, and he was away from his element.

Some of the shock of his confrontration with Jerrus had worn off. It had been a long time since he'd seen death, but he had seen enough of it in his younger years for it not to keep him in a trance too long.

At one point, he turned to her and, trying to tell if others reacted as well, said, "I said some unwise things to Jerrus to persuade him to work with the King. Do you think such will cause problems if it reaches certain ears?"

[daelrog]

"What? You mean that Dominius is a foolish child. I don't think so. The King's funny when it comes to what offends him or not. He's all about following what he saidl iterally. Since you ended Jerrus's rebellion it doesn't matter how you did it, since the King didn't tell you anything to the contrary. If oyu would have questioned the mission in the first place, then there may have been a problem."


The Queen looked slight impressed. "Wisp? Oh my dear child be happy oyu are in the company you are. The previous King, Dominius and Halleus's father, outlawed all such substances. Dominius has not reversed the policy either. I am sure you know why..." She looked at Alice, reading her. "The rest sounds quite lovely, but let's save the contraband, love. For now, I would not mention that, or anything else on the matter unless you are confident with whom you speak."

[RJ45]

"So be it." Remedy didn't particularly care - if anything, it was an extension of her offer. An extension of trust between two ladies. Besides, the Baroness had explicitly explained the own acts she had done and that she would do - the shaping of other's opinions. In truth, they were still truly in the same field. When something is deemed illegal, the only thing that changes about it is its rarity and value - especially something like Wisp that is complicated to create.

With their discussion coming to a temporary pause, Remedy took a moment to continue on with her meal. It was beyond good - far better than what the Fae had. Remedy was content with a modest meal - as nice as it would have been to eat until it hurt and pass out in a bed, there was much to do. The future of every nation of the world depended on Remedy and Olenna.

[JeenLeen]

Chenzion let a small smile at that information, although rather subdued due to the still oppressive air from recent events. "Well, I am relieved to hear that. Thank you."

So, a success of sorts. Chenzion both looked forward to and dreaded the next step in their plans. The hidden prince-rebel or the insane rebel-duke?

[daelrog]

Remedy caught onto a lot of things that night with the Baroness. She also learned much of her, and nothing at all. Perhaps Remedy could learn a thing or two from her. After all, the Baroness did have what Remedy desired.


To Chenzion, Asarius was a place of wonders. Though still recovering from the recent attack, it was far larger and grander than any city in Avendell. At the top of the city was the palace, its round domes of jade sparkling in the sun. It was said to be the largest city in the world.

He had a quick good bye with Revok. She was rushed away to report to Huron. She gave a friendly wave and said that she'd see him soon.

It took over two hours to reach the palace itself, taking trains, and elevators. No one could reach the palace unless they intended to go there. Even within the palace, it took another twenty minutes to navigate its grand halls, and wide corridors until they reached the throne room. It was built like an amphitheater where all the nobles and merchant lords could sit and then some. There, Dominius sat upon his green throne. This time, onlee two of hsi advisors were with him. "Greetings Ambassador. Your success dealing with the fanatic was exemplory. I dare say, it was the only good news I've received since you have been gone.

"While you were away, my brother finally acted, taking all of our nothern provinces within two days. Apparently hsi casualties coudl be counted at less than a hundred. Not only this, but he's stationed himself behind Viscarl, creating a stalemate. Whichever two sides fight first leaves the third at an advanatage. As things stand, Viscarl and Halleus can't ifght each other, the mountains creatign a barrier.

"Not only this, but it seems as if he's receiving aid from one of your coutnrymen. Colonel Klaus of the Reavers has shown himself to be a traitor, and has given my borther a sizeable force to buffer his own. I've already taken the liberty at arresting the Cloudkin. Guards?"

With the wave of his hands, four guards approached Marina, who now stood speechless. The words the King had said simply did not make sense.

"It appears that Honoria is not the only nation with inner turmoil. Is it, Chenzion?"


Remedy and Olenna sat on a small airship, not even a tenth of the size of the Halberd. In a couple of days, they would reach Asarius.

By the timeline, Remedy and Olenna will be arriving at Asarius only half a day after Chenzion.