The Kraastmas Festival (Empire Worlds Event, Drenath)

[Epinephrine_Syn]

[Kraastmas Festival]

Spoiler: Address To The Troggdian Citizens

Show

The courtyard was filled to the brim, it was like a full fifth of the entire region was gathered here. Which to be fair, it was, plus a whole host of visitors from all across dremath. The revelry was palpable, but came to a halt when a G minor chord screamed out from the piano at the center of it all.

Princess Acorn had wheeled it out to the high balcony for this purpose. And by that she meant she had her bowser of a king lug it to the roof. It made a chilling sound, which even if Princess Claemora was the only person in the world who truly enjoyed it, everyone else could respect it's wail.

"Greetings to all!" She spoke to her citizens and the newcomers alike as if through a megaphone. "When we first came down from the hills we had as our mission to rein down vengeance on all those guilty humans, that their very souls were forefeit. I can say that as of now, we have completed our goal. This Kraastmas is the emancipation for all those humans who are innocent!"

There were confused murmurs throughout much of the trog population, though her magitrog service was well in on this deal. She gave the crowd a second to settle before going on, and also for her agents to prepare.

"Now, as we all know Kraastmas is judgment day, where good girls celebrate and live in paradise, and bad boys get what's what. We gave you the power humans once held over you this year to see what you would do with it, and oh, Kraast has been keeping a list of who's been naughty or nice. I've even read the whole thing to check it, twice!"

The giant king stood behind her and on his cue, has a huge scroll of paper that he let unfurl. His naughty list reached all the way down to the ground below, and kept rolling for quite a bit afterwards. Which may seem like a lot, but this was an entire horde of trogs, so it was still a small portion of the population on the list.

"Don't worry, you aren't consigned for jaysnayching. It is only committing The Unforgivable that get you on the naughty list.”

Princess Acorn concluded her speech and came down from her high tower, with the haunting piano still playing as if she had her fingers directly on the keys. Fresh meat and well harvested crops were presented to all, a relative rarity in this chilly desperate climate. But special occasions deserved the banquet and all the fine things that came with it.

Aside from the few Trogg troublemakers who were being rounded up, everything was surprisingly relaxed. Fliers and papers were being handed out like candy, showcasing just what their new technology could do that none others could.

After a little while, Kraast himself lumbered over to the edge of the balcony, hopping on out of it down several flights to land in a move that formed cracks in the ground. With a hearty laugh, he gave a bow and welcomed the comparatively tiny people around him too.

Spoiler: Mechanical (ish) Stuff

Show

I’m open to any sort of trade, and will be willing to do so with anybody. I'm probably going to wind up giving my tech to everybody that attends the event.
If you have a preference between talking to Princess Acorn or Kraast, let me know either ooc or ic.
Remember to edit into your posts that you're willing to accept all techs somewhere so you don't accidentally not get your gifts from the event.
There are a few Trog criminals scattering about to flee the scene. You may roll Military or Intrigue to either aid their escape, or to help in their capture. This will have nothing but fluff effects, but the option is there if you wish to indulge in the festivities.

All that said, welcome to the first event of Empire: Worlds! Merry gaming together to all.

[Volthawk]

The visitors from Carcinidan are hard to miss, few in number but making up for it in size and vivaciousness. It's not entirely clear why most of them are here to an observer - they came as bodyguards for their lord, Paralith, but evidently he has found them unneeded in the circumstances and let them enjoy themselves in their boisterous way. At the least, they seemed to have had the relative fragility of the other races impressed onto them before arriving, so they have limited their more boisterous activities to each other or anyone feeling brave enough to have a go. If nothing else, they were having a considerable impact on the presented food, but as they had arrived with a wide variety of their local catches to contribute to the banquet as a gesture of goodwill the net effect was more or less the same as anyone else - evidently, Paralith had accounted for the appetites of his men. Only a few showed interest in the troglodytes' printing, those Carcini that had come as part of Paralith's council of advisors, somewhat more restrained by their race's standards but still rather relaxed as they talked amongst themselves about everything they were seeing.

Paralith himself was an impressive example of the Carcini, larger than most of his guards and body decked out in steel plating - it was hardly a secret that, like many in Drenath, the Carcinidan were short on good metal and looking for new sources of the stuff, but evidently that didn't apply to their overlord. At least he'd decided not to also wear the weapons and claw-gauntlets that many of his lords favoured as a part of their fashion (good for both impressing your peers and destroying your enemies - the Carcini were nothing if not practically minded when it come to their accessories). He found himself in an usual position here, though - it was rare that he came across someone larger than himself, and even rarer when that person was not of his race. A less disciplined Carcinus might find the prospective challenge irresistible (for instance, he noticed how one of his warriors kept glancing the way of Kraast, weighing up her odds of winning a contest of strength as she ate), but Paralith hadn't gotten where he was by letting the urges of the Carcini mind rule him. He was here to do more important things than that - affairs of state had to take priority over enjoying himself. Approaching the king, he nods in respect. "I am honoured to accept your invitation to join you here. So many of the lords of Drenath here...this feels like the start of something truly impressive."

[SerakHawk]

Watching on from the section of the crowd the representatives of the Companion Collective gathered during the opening proceedings Felix Silvermane nodded at his skulk. "Off then my children, go mingle with the leaders of these lands who are present - your mother and I will speak with Princess Acorn our host." At that his pack of five split off into different directions to mingle with their own attendants.

Spoiler: Kits of Felix Silvermane

Show

Bretha
The oldest of the first litter of Felix's kits Bretha's silver-red frame was an imposing figure of her own. Easily at three and a half feet to her shoulder she scarred fur showed her proclivity for fights.
Jelai
The second oldest and last surviving kit of Felix's oldest litter was much more of his mother in frame. Akin to a normal foxes proportions his red and white fur showed nothing of the notorious Silvermane striping. He joked that it allowed him to pass unnoticed and get away with things that his siblings couldn't.
Kli & Cal
The 'twins' as they are referred to by the Silvermane court are almost indistinguishable from each other. Both have pure silver pelts and are around 3 ft to shoulder. Pious as can be both are adherents to ancestor worship, some say they may even share the same soul.
Raine
As the youngest of the kits Raine is the heir apparent to the Silvermane throne. Her stature is similar to her father's but her pelt has her mother's reddish tinge with the Silver streak of her father.

If you want to chat with one of these 'representatives' just go for it

The large sized fox, relative to his attendant mice, hounds and assorted animals, weaved through the crowd on his path to Princess Acorn. His silver-black fur rippled as his long strides took little time to reach her. His life-mate Silva, a redish brown furred fox, followed close behind. "Felix, are you sure the children will be fine?' she whispered as they stalked through the party "The kits will have to learn sooner or later, they will be leading the Collective in their own time, best now than never."

As the pair approached Princess Acorn, Felix dips his head deeply in respect. "Well met Princess Acorn, that was an inspiring speech - it seemed to have had an effect on your people. I enjoyed our time in your lands, it is not so dissimilar from our own, and yet, its beauty is something different. It reminds me of those who've passed on they continue to watch over us. What is it that you believe about the beyond?"

Spoiler: Mechanics

Show

Accepting all gifts provided.
Open to trades or deals.

Spoiler: Faith

Show

All of the Silvermane kits will approach a member of the other leader's parties in an attempt to introduce them to Ancestor Worship:
"The belief that there is spiritual energy contained within the souls of all sentient creatures. Great heroes and leaders are believed to contain powerful spirits within them and are venerated even after their deaths. Great spirits are entered into the pantheon to revere, venerate and seek aid from."

[Zayuz]

Namaichi had been quiet to the outside world since the swarm struck. So many dead, the city in tatters... There had been no opportunity to go survey the damage done to other places, and fewer still to attend blissful events. Yet rebuilding had gone well, and with the life-giving call echoing across the lands it was as good a time as any check what their neighbors were up to. They had known the humans of the Acorn Kingdom to be sensible allies of Kai Shi in an age gone by, but what they saw now were scaled brutes in command of a human underclass. Scales perhaps not unlike those of the Namari, who were a blend of human and dragon that seemed to lean much more on the human side of things.

Chancellor Sukui El Niara was in attendance for the speech, alongside three other less prolific mages. She was the current leader of the university and ultimate power when it came to making decisions, though technically it operated as a republic. Age was hard to tell for the Namari, but she seemed to be in her late twenties. Each of the Namari in attendance wear very light clothes for the chilly weather, dressed in an esoteric black and white with the sigils of their magic disciplines upon them - featuring an additional marking if they were the head of their station. None seem bothered by the weather, immersing in the cold as their very element. To those well-learned in magic, Sukui would be clearly the Head of Domination. She was accompanied by the Head of Druidism, the Head of Abjuration, and a lesser mage of philosophy. When the arrived they had spread the word that they were seeking aid in restoring a magnificent cathedral to house the Fallen and Forgotten in their lands, and were willing to pay favors with favors for the massive efforts that it would take to get that sort of project off the ground.


To our Host
The four mages approach Princess Acorn once she's available, with Chancellor Sukui in the lead. Her very presence brings with it an official but worried air, her hand hovering over the wand by her side. She offers a nod of her head to the woman, "Greetings from Namaichi, we see that much has changed since the swarm came. I am Chancellor Sukui El Nirara of Manastone University, the only power of our lands to survive the last century. It brings us joy to see other survivors, but the conditions of humans in these lands is... Troubling. What happened here?"


To the Crabs?
The Carcindians were in fact hard to miss. A curious druid identified them as crab-people, the sorts of which they had never heard and held no record of from before the swarm. Departing from her group at some point during the event, a delicate-looking Namari even by human standards approaches Paralith and offers a crimson flower that seems to spout from her very hands. "Hello... I don't think I've ever seen one like you before. You look very fierce; I'm sure the swarm had trouble breaking through your people." Her optimism is radiant, green eyes alit with wonder! She regarded him with the curiosity that one might expect of a new discovery, studying him with intensity as they spoke.

[HalfTangible]

“If music be the food of love, play on,
Give me excess of it; that surfeiting,
The appetite may sicken, and so die.”

---

[The Chanson Choir]

In the air, just far enough out of hearing that one could ignore it if they so chose, there lingered a song. A powerful, holy song that kept the swarm at bay with every note. It was as clear an example of the divine as one could ever ask for. The people of Chanson revered this song like no other, and their group was easy to find; they were the ones with all of the loud singing.

Seigneur Chastain was a blue tiefling man, with long dark hair and an immaculate goatee. Like others of his kind, he appeared mostly human, but with a few notable exceptions that screamed his draconic origins to the heavens. His horns twisted around like a ram's, and He was once a Chevalier, but the landsmeet had declared him the successor to Laurent. It had been the result of a lifetime of manuvering, sweet-talking, and occasionally bribes to get into the good graces of Chanson's bards and Chanteur. On that note...

The man spared a glance to one of his travelling companions; Bard Camille. The woman's eyes darted about the meeting place, lingering on the delegations of the various peoples that had been invited to this festival. She was a deep, ruby red and her horns spiralled out from her head, pointing left and right. The excitable girl was already drawing eyes just from the sheer exuberance she radiated. So young was she, and low ranked among the bards.

Yet even one so lowly as she commanded respect across all of Chanson. In their land, the bards were the true power; they had the hearts and minds of the people dancing to their own song. They, it was said, were closest to the Choir. They alone commanded the power needed to drive back the Swarm, should it ever return. And so when a bard - even one as young and inexperienced as she talked - the Chevaliers and Magnats listened.

It had been a good call to make himself the Bards' patron. Scratch their back, they'll scratch yours.

One more step on the road to true Kingdom.

Magnat Marshall was a human; a pale, scrawny thing with an unkempt appearance that belied his status as a Magnat. Supposedly, Tieflings had once been human, though Seigneur Chastain preferred to focus on the draconic heritage his kind clearly possessed. The human was a weak, reserved thing that spent more time with horses than with people. It was no wonder Les Maitres de Cheval had fallen out of favor in recent years with him in charge; but they needed someone to see to the horses, he supposed. Marshall would never be ambitious enough to be a danger to the Seigneur's rule anyway.

And lastly there was the only changeling in the group or their guard; Pretresse Paris du Chanson. For whatever reason she had decided to take the form of a downright towering Amazonian woman with eyes the deep gold of a cat. The girl was singing, trying her damndest to match the notes that they could all hear on the wind if they just focused. Her oaths prevented her from speaking any other capacity during most hours of the day, which got on the Seigneur's nerves more than he cared to admit.

Still. It would not do to anger a priestess by being so gauche as to demand she stop trying to keep them safe.

---

[Acorn and Kraast]

Seigneur Chastain would seek out both Kraast and the Princess Acorn at some point or another.

---

((Will perhaps do more direct approaches later))

Spoiler: Entourage

Show

Bard Camille du Les Miserables (excitable young tiefling woman eager to prove herself and learn everything she can, no matter who she annoys in the process)
Seigneur Chastain du Chanson (Dignified, composed, and definitely not pure evil blue demon-man ("DRAGON!))
Magnat Marshall du Maitres de Cheval (Unkempt messy human who spends most of his time with horses)
Pretresse Paris du Chanson (Singing Amazonian changeling in white robes with golden eyes. Only speaks while singing along to the Call.)

[Volthawk]

Using one of his more human-like hands to take the flower - not particularly gently or elegantly, but with more precision than you'd expect from his size, and he managed to not completely ruin the flower - Paralith looks at her thoughtfully. Flowers had never been particularly important to the Carcini, but he'd gathered that most of the other races appreciated how it looked, so he nodded with gratitude. "Thank you. We Carcini came after the Swarm had left Drenath, so we haven't had the opportunity to test how well we'd stand up to them. I gather your people did have that chance, though."

[SOSDarkPhoenix]

Subtly, and largely unnoticed, a figure dressed in a deep black cloak arrives, his arms tucked away and face concealed by the dark hood. The only bit of skin visible is his mouth, ashen-grey, boney ridges on either side of his jaw that end in small protrusions beneath his chin. The figure listens intently, visibly scanning the room as each new arrival comes. Whoever this man(?) is, they do not seem an obvious threat, but neither do they seem interested in approaching anyone for talk.

[HalfTangible]

Subtly, and largely unnoticed, a figure dressed in a deep black cloak arrives, his arms tucked away and face concealed by the dark hood. The only bit of skin visible is his mouth, ashen-grey, boney ridges on either side of his jaw that end in small protrusions beneath his chin. The figure listens intently, visibly scanning the room as each new arrival comes. Whoever this man(?) is, they do not seem an obvious threat, but neither do they seem interested in approaching anyone for talk.

The dour and supremely grim man was soon met with the bright, exuberant eyes and smile of a Chanson Bard. The red tiefling girl's horns poked outward from the sides of her head, and pupilless eyes sparkled with interest in the new arrival. She wore leather armor, but it seemed designed to look pretty more than functional; like parade armor. There was a stringed instrument on her back, and she had a thick tail that twitched and riled as she looked the stranger over. When she spoke, there was an odd pressure to her voice, as if she were about to burst into song at any moment.

"Bonjour étranger! Are you with the mages? Where did the bone-ridges come from? Are they like your noses? Did they come from draconic blood? Who're you with? Do they have extra noses? Or are they horns? That's cool, my horns can't smell anything. Do I smell? I don't think Marshall can, must be why he likes horses so much. What your name mine's Camille du Les Miserables!"

She stopped and took a breath.

[Zayuz]

Bards, Wizards, and Rogues(?)

"Not with the mages, nope!" Calls an equally energetic voice, the same druid who approached the crab-folk earlier having come over to bid hello to the bards that she regarded fondly by reputation alone. How close she was to breaking into song at any moment - it was perfect! Just what she had hoped to find at the festival, and a lot of why she herself had come. Li Da was the head of Druidism for the University, and she spun so that her back faced the others to demonstrate what set her apart. Her words come a mile a minute, tailing close behind the red tiefling. "I'm Li Da - See the sigil there? That's the druid mark, and the circle around it means I'm kind of the leader of the druids at Manastone! This guy definitely doesn't have the marking, and neither do we really have many men that can cast spells. They make great Philosophers though! Look at the armor, that's what I'm curious about. Have you considered the adverse affects that large scale mining operations have on the environment? I'm just saying, I try to keep my silverware to one of a few ethical mining branches in Namaichi, but some people just dont care about whether squirrels have homes or not." She rolls her eyes. "Sorry, can I get an analysis of you? I'm taking a survey of all the races here that I don't recognize and so far I've found crabs!" With a pleased look about her and a tome already open in one hand, she steps around the cloaked figure to examine him...


(Will reply to Volt tomorrow, just needed to slide in here before Phoenix responded)

[SOSDarkPhoenix]

A Bard, a Druid, and a Rogue?

Approached and verbally battered on both sides by a bard and a druid, the cloaked figure remains composed, hearing the entirety of both rants before he replies in cold, but not unfriendly fashion. "My name is Halic... and I smell through my nose, same as you, if you must know." As he speaks, his pointed teeth are revealed, and a seemingly more reptilian tongue. "Ask what manner of questions you will, but I am not here for the festivity, rather to observe."

[Epinephrine_Syn]

Kraastmas Festival Replies

Carcini

The king bellows with a laugh, wearing a wide grin and waving a hand outward to the wide festivities. He's just finished a meal fit for a king, and is seeming in an especially good mood right at the moment. “Yes! I’m a little surprised myself, I didn’t expect such an absolute success so quickly. Although perhaps I should have. This is the biggest gathering this side of the north. This is the first time I’ve met one of your kind in person. You look powerful, and coated in fine metal armor too.“

The normal trogs were pretty small relative to him, and there were a couple nearby him looking to get his attention, but he waved them off with a ‘give me a few minutes’ gesture. “Everybody is here to give and get, share their own special qualities and to receive lots of gifts. So.” His expression turned dark, but a happy sort of dark that did not preclude friendship. That’s just how Kraast looked it seemed. “What kinds of things have you been most interested in here?“


Companion Collective

Princess Acorn was quietly sipping tea, or at least something that looked like tea in the courtyard. Occasionally some trogs would be brought before her, and she’d give a glance, and that would be enough apparently for them to know what to do with them. It’s with the same muted smile that she greets the animals, hearing them out, then putting down her cup.

“That’s a, an…” She paused, seeming to be deep in thought. “Interesting question to open with. Philosophers would debate forever, and while I could grab scrolls and books of lore I don’t think that’s the thing you’re asking about. I think you’re asking about whether I believe that those who die can still see us.”

Her eyes glimmered, staring up at the sky with a soft smile. “And as for me, I know for certain that plenty who have died are still sticking around. I don’t think they literally ‘see’, but I don’t believe that’s the key component of what you’re asking.”


Chancellor Sukui

They’d waited for the Princess to walk into a flower field near the edge of a cliff. She was overlooking the horizon, and she’d had a little pavilion there. Seems like this precarious spot was somewhere she gardened and looked out at on a regular basis from time to time. It also seems like she specifically went there to signify that she was done with the judging business of earlier and was ready for people to come find her, and soon enough;

”Greetings, Chancellor. What happened here is a long story, but I suppose a university would be interested in that. Perhaps some day I’ll write a book about it. The short answer is…” Her face turned away briefly, away from the others and out of sight. Some noise not unlike that of her piano, albeit out of tune rang out in a low tremble. It lasted but a moment though, and the glow in her eyes was mostly gone by time she turned her gaze back. “Oh, dear, excuse me.”

”Long story short, and without comment on the horrors perpetrated on my body as that gets kind of personal, there’s been a preposterous amount of war, and we’re putting an end to that. I assure you this move is a clear declaration of our, or at least ‘my’-“ She paused, glancing back at the main party with a narrowed squint. ”-, make things better for everyone, trog and human alike.“

[Volthawk]

Kraast

Paralith laughs and nods. "I was surprised to see you. I'd heard you were powerful, but most of the others here are so small I didn't expect you to be larger than me. It's
a rare thing for a Carcinus. I wouldn't be surprised if one of my warriors ends up challenging you to some kind of contest later. And thank you, yes, the armour is good. One of our finest smiths forged it in celebration of my unification and formation of Carcinidan." The pride in his voice is obvious there.

His question gives Paralith pause as he considers the king's words. "There are things of use everywhere here, and my advisors will talk to the relevant people, but I am mainly here so it is known that we came here. We Carcini have not been a nation for long. Being recognised as a peer in events like this helps to pave the way into the future I see for my people."

[HalfTangible]

Bards, Wizards, and Rogues(?)

"Not with the mages, nope!" Calls an equally energetic voice, the same druid who approached the crab-folk earlier having come over to bid hello to the bards that she regarded fondly by reputation alone. How close she was to breaking into song at any moment - it was perfect! Just what she had hoped to find at the festival, and a lot of why she herself had come. Li Da was the head of Druidism for the University, and she spun so that her back faced the others to demonstrate what set her apart. Her words come a mile a minute, tailing close behind the red tiefling. "I'm Li Da - See the sigil there? That's the druid mark, and the circle around it means I'm kind of the leader of the druids at Manastone! This guy definitely doesn't have the marking, and neither do we really have many men that can cast spells. They make great Philosophers though! Look at the armor, that's what I'm curious about. Have you considered the adverse affects that large scale mining operations have on the environment? I'm just saying, I try to keep my silverware to one of a few ethical mining branches in Namaichi, but some people just dont care about whether squirrels have homes or not." She rolls her eyes. "Sorry, can I get an analysis of you? I'm taking a survey of all the races here that I don't recognize and so far I've found crabs!" With a pleased look about her and a tome already open in one hand, she steps around the cloaked figure to examine him...

Camille bounced in place. "Oooooh! Are you on that council I heard about just to Chanson's south? What do druids do? Why are there 13 schools of magic? Do any of them involve singing? What kind of music do you like? Is it true the mages are descended from dragons? Some Tieflings think we're descended from dragons too but none of us get wings. Do you have wings? Can you fly that would be so cool!"

A Bard, a Druid, and a Rogue?

Approached and verbally battered on both sides by a bard and a druid, the cloaked figure remains composed, hearing the entirety of both rants before he replies in cold, but not unfriendly fashion. "My name is Halic... and I smell through my nose, same as you, if you must know." As he speaks, his pointed teeth are revealed, and a seemingly more reptilian tongue. "Ask what manner of questions you will, but I am not here for the festivity, rather to observe."

If Halic had been under the impression that Camille would calm down upon having her questions answered, he was mistaken.

"Halic is a good name! I like your voice, you should talk more! What are you? Are you draconic? Why are you observing everyone? See anyone you like? Do you hang out in shadowy tavern corners to observe? How do you see in the shadows without an eyepatch? Do you have an eyepatch? Are you here with any group? Do you want to go back with one? How many daggers are you hiding under that cloak? I've never been able to hide more than five in my armor."

That last bit was a lie. She was hiding seven.

Watching on from the section of the crowd the representatives of the Companion Collective gathered during the opening proceedings Felix Silvermane nodded at his skulk. "Off then my children, go mingle with the leaders of these lands who are present - your mother and I will speak with Princess Acorn our host." At that his pack of five split off into different directions to mingle with their own attendants.

Spoiler: Kits of Felix Silvermane

Show

Bretha
The oldest of the first litter of Felix's kits Bretha's silver-red frame was an imposing figure of her own. Easily at three and a half feet to her shoulder she scarred fur showed her proclivity for fights.
Jelai
The second oldest and last surviving kit of Felix's oldest litter was much more of his mother in frame. Akin to a normal foxes proportions his red and white fur showed nothing of the notorious Silvermane striping. He joked that it allowed him to pass unnoticed and get away with things that his siblings couldn't.
Kli & Cal
The 'twins' as they are referred to by the Silvermane court are almost indistinguishable from each other. Both have pure silver pelts and are around 3 ft to shoulder. Pious as can be both are adherents to ancestor worship, some say they may even share the same soul.
Raine
As the youngest of the kits Raine is the heir apparent to the Silvermane throne. Her stature is similar to her father's but her pelt has her mother's reddish tinge with the Silver streak of her father.

If you want to chat with one of these 'representatives' just go for it

The large sized fox, relative to his attendant mice, hounds and assorted animals, weaved through the crowd on his path to Princess Acorn. His silver-black fur rippled as his long strides took little time to reach her. His life-mate Silva, a redish brown furred fox, followed close behind. "Felix, are you sure the children will be fine?' she whispered as they stalked through the party "The kits will have to learn sooner or later, they will be leading the Collective in their own time, best now than never."

As the pair approached Princess Acorn, Felix dips his head deeply in respect. "Well met Princess Acorn, that was an inspiring speech - it seemed to have had an effect on your people. I enjoyed our time in your lands, it is not so dissimilar from our own, and yet, its beauty is something different. It reminds me of those who've passed on they continue to watch over us. What is it that you believe about the beyond?"

Spoiler: Mechanics

Show

Accepting all gifts provided.
Open to trades or deals.

Spoiler: Faith

Show

All of the Silvermane kits will approach a member of the other leader's parties in an attempt to introduce them to Ancestor Worship:
"The belief that there is spiritual energy contained within the souls of all sentient creatures. Great heroes and leaders are believed to contain powerful spirits within them and are venerated even after their deaths. Great spirits are entered into the pantheon to revere, venerate and seek aid from."

Marshall really did not want to mingle with the highbrow nobility; even the foreign ones. He'd never gotten along terribly well in the Landsmeets, his family's reputation following him. Chastain had brought him along solely because someone had to look after the horses. Now that even that minor service was out of the way his own lord was ignoring him.

He sighed. It was hard to be a human in a land of Tieflings.

Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted a fox wandering around the building. That... was odd. Probably someone's pet or familiar. He slowly approached it, trying to look as non-threatening as he could.

Jelai would notice a very rough-looking and smelly human approaching. It seemed like the human was thinking of eating him.

The visitors from Carcinidan are hard to miss, few in number but making up for it in size and vivaciousness. It's not entirely clear why most of them are here to an observer - they came as bodyguards for their lord, Paralith, but evidently he has found them unneeded in the circumstances and let them enjoy themselves in their boisterous way. At the least, they seemed to have had the relative fragility of the other races impressed onto them before arriving, so they have limited their more boisterous activities to each other or anyone feeling brave enough to have a go. If nothing else, they were having a considerable impact on the presented food, but as they had arrived with a wide variety of their local catches to contribute to the banquet as a gesture of goodwill the net effect was more or less the same as anyone else - evidently, Paralith had accounted for the appetites of his men. Only a few showed interest in the troglodytes' printing, those Carcini that had come as part of Paralith's council of advisors, somewhat more restrained by their race's standards but still rather relaxed as they talked amongst themselves about everything they were seeing.

Paralith himself was an impressive example of the Carcini, larger than most of his guards and body decked out in steel plating - it was hardly a secret that, like many in Drenath, the Carcinidan were short on good metal and looking for new sources of the stuff, but evidently that didn't apply to their overlord. At least he'd decided not to also wear the weapons and claw-gauntlets that many of his lords favoured as a part of their fashion (good for both impressing your peers and destroying your enemies - the Carcini were nothing if not practically minded when it come to their accessories). He found himself in an usual position here, though - it was rare that he came across someone larger than himself, and even rarer when that person was not of his race. A less disciplined Carcinus might find the prospective challenge irresistible (for instance, he noticed how one of his warriors kept glancing the way of Kraast, weighing up her odds of winning a contest of strength as she ate), but Paralith hadn't gotten where he was by letting the urges of the Carcini mind rule him. He was here to do more important things than that - affairs of state had to take priority over enjoying himself. Approaching the king, he nods in respect. "I am honoured to accept your invitation to join you here. So many of the lords of Drenath here...this feels like the start of something truly impressive."

At some point, Paralith would be approached by the Seigneur of Chanson. Unlike many of his kind, the blue tiefling did not possess a tail. He did, however, have some scales on his arms, and his horns were large and curled like a ram's. His eyes had no pupils, and his goatee was immaculate.

"... I must confess monsieur," He said, "When I heard tell of large crabs in the west, I thought the tales exaggerated. If anything, the tales do not do you justice. I am Seigneur Chastain du Chanson, from Le Royaume de Chanson to the east."

[Volthawk]

The Seigneur of Chanson

"I am Paralith, lord of the Carcini. We are very real, and I think you will be seeing more of us in the years to come. Beyond us, there are also many kinds of animals in our lands that fit that description. Some of them are good to eat, if you're interested." Paralith turns his head to look out at the banquet. "Your people are quite interesting, Chastain. These musicians of yours...they're important to your people, yes?"

[HalfTangible]

[Taste like crab, talk like people]

"Oui oui - the bards are important to Chanson, for music is important to us all, monsieur." Chastain confirmed. "They are not all, though. You may perhaps hear Paris adding her voice to the Call that holds back the Swarm? She is but one Pretresse - one priestess - of many."

[Volthawk]

The Seigneur of Chanson

Paralith nods slowly. He knew of the history of the Call, as a part of his efforts to prepare for diplomacy, but he hadn't heard anything about these musicians contributing to it. He supposed it was just one of those things people liked to believe. No need to dispute it - he saw no need to get involved in matters of religion if it didn't benefit him. "I see. It sounds...pleasant." Not quite to Carcini tastes, but he could appreciate it. "So. Does your attendance here have a particular purpose, past diplomatic protocol?" Paralith may have a broader vision than most of his race, but he was still a Carcinus when it got down to it. Sometimes, that meant being direct.

[SOSDarkPhoenix]

If Halic had been under the impression that Camille would calm down upon having her questions answered, he was mistaken.

"Halic is a good name! I like your voice, you should talk more! What are you? Are you draconic? Why are you observing everyone? See anyone you like? Do you hang out in shadowy tavern corners to observe? How do you see in the shadows without an eyepatch? Do you have an eyepatch? Are you here with any group? Do you want to go back with one? How many daggers are you hiding under that cloak? I've never been able to hide more than five in my armor."

That last bit was a lie. She was hiding seven.

The strange visitor sighed audibly, cutting her questions off and firing back a few of his own. "Are you the leader of your group? You venerate the Call, yes? The saving grace of the known world? I have heard of your bards, and I believe I have information that could assist you in your studies. But such information is not for the ears of just anyone."

[SerakHawk]

Between an Acorn and a Fox

Spoiler

Show

Princess Acorn was quietly sipping tea, or at least something that looked like tea in the courtyard. Occasionally some trogs would be brought before her, and she’d give a glance, and that would be enough apparently for them to know what to do with them. It’s with the same muted smile that she greets the animals, hearing them out, then putting down her cup.

“That’s a, an…” She paused, seeming to be deep in thought. “Interesting question to open with. Philosophers would debate forever, and while I could grab scrolls and books of lore I don’t think that’s the thing you’re asking about. I think you’re asking about whether I believe that those who die can still see us.”

Her eyes glimmered, staring up at the sky with a soft smile. “And as for me, I know for certain that plenty who have died are still sticking around. I don’t think they literally ‘see’, but I don’t believe that’s the key component of what you’re asking.”

Felix nodded sagely before sitting on his hunches. "Hm, what a good answer, we are of similar mind in this then - I do believe that they have more of a lasting impact on the world... Where are my manners, Princess Acorn, this is my mate, Silva. Sorry for asking such a forward question, it is something that weighs on my mind greatly as I age."

Silva bears her teeth in a facsimile of a smile before dipping her head. "My mate does go on with the oddest things sometimes, I am enjoying your kingdom Princess. Thank you for your generosity."

Felix makes a chuckling noise before continuing. "Yes, your hospitality is much appreciated. I do hope that we can cooperate, the swarm have ravaged these lands and unity and shared prosperity would be a great boon for all of us. As such I have had my scholars bring along the plans of our sea-worthy vessels, hopefully the plans can be of use to you and yours."

Danger, Fox!

Spoiler

Show

Marshall really did not want to mingle with the highbrow nobility; even the foreign ones. He'd never gotten along terribly well in the Landsmeets, his family's reputation following him. Chastain had brought him along solely because someone had to look after the horses. Now that even that minor service was out of the way his own lord was ignoring him.

He sighed. It was hard to be a human in a land of Tieflings.

Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted a fox wandering around the building. That... was odd. Probably someone's pet or familiar. He slowly approached it, trying to look as non-threatening as he could.

Jelai would notice a very rough-looking and smelly human approaching. It seemed like the human was thinking of eating him.

Jelai was hanging around the crowd, staying on the edges of it looking for for 'trouble', or just something to do. Minding his own business the approaching wild looking human smelling of horses concerned him. Playing the part of a normal fox Jelai made a yipping noise and dashed a bit further away from the human before stopping and twisting his head to the side looking Marshall up and down.

Man of Mystery and Heir of the Lands
Having eavesdropped on an earlier conversation before being swept up in her duties as heir Raine finally found a moment to slip away from her entourage to approach the strange man. As she approached she remained silent until the man noticed her coming.

"Greatings, I saw you were quite swarmed with attention earlier. I am Raine Silvermane, heir to my father's kingdom. I have accounted for the majority of the other rulers of this land here... and yet I can't determine where you hail from.. the mystery intrigues me."

At a safe distance she sits on the ground, her tail swishing on the ground. "I have traded who I am and from where I hail, may I have the same in return?"

[AlexanderML]

The three that had arrived from the karacite lands were an odd trio, perhaps not the most out of place in appearance, but certainly in their mannerisms.

A large bear of white fur wearing a helm of gold and crystal who merrily hummed along with the haunting music with an off-tone mechanical voice, sniffing at the guests before mumbling something about pants and shoes then wandering off.

Riding on the bear’s back was a girl in a travel-stained dress, happily waving at everyone, enjoying the food that came near the bear, though her voice too was mechanical as her neck was entirely made of the blue karacite crystal and she often tried to eat the cutlery….

Finally upon the girl’s shoulders was a crow that wore a pair of blue leggings and a copper amulet around its neck; it spoke ‘Good day kind sir!’ to everyone the trio met along the way, unable to distinguish between man, woman, or child. Every once in a while he’d make a well-practiced bowing motion, though at no one in particular.

The trio randomly move about watching the goings-on of the humanoids (crabs included). So many of them in one place, not attacking them! It was more than they could have ever expected, probably because they had no idea what to expect.

[HalfTangible]

Between an Acorn and a Fox


Felix nodded sagely before sitting on his hunches. "Hm, what a good answer, we are of similar mind in this then - I do believe that they have more of a lasting impact on the world... Where are my manners, Princess Acorn, this is my mate, Silva. Sorry for asking such a forward question, it is something that weighs on my mind greatly as I age."

Silva bears her teeth in a facsimile of a smile before dipping her head. "My mate does go on with the oddest things sometimes, I am enjoying your kingdom Princess. Thank you for your generosity."

Felix makes a chuckling noise before continuing. "Yes, your hospitality is much appreciated. I do hope that we can cooperate, the swarm have ravaged these lands and unity and shared prosperity would be a great boon for all of us. As such I have had my scholars bring along the plans of our sea-worthy vessels, hopefully the plans can be of use to you and yours."

Danger, Fox!


Jelai was hanging around the crowd, staying on the edges of it looking for for 'trouble', or just something to do. Minding his own business the approaching wild looking human smelling of horses concerned him. Playing the part of a normal fox Jelai made a yipping noise and dashed a bit further away from the human before stopping and twisting his head to the side looking Marshall up and down.

"Whoa whoa, hold up little one." He whispered, pitching his voice a bit higher as he continued to approach the fox. "Not gonna hurt you, just gonna take you outside before somebody stabs you..."

The Seigneur of Chanson

Paralith nods slowly. He knew of the history of the Call, as a part of his efforts to prepare for diplomacy, but he hadn't heard anything about these musicians contributing to it. He supposed it was just one of those things people liked to believe. No need to dispute it - he saw no need to get involved in matters of religion if it didn't benefit him. "I see. It sounds...pleasant." Not quite to Carcini tastes, but he could appreciate it. "So. Does your attendance here have a particular purpose, past diplomatic protocol?" Paralith may have a broader vision than most of his race, but he was still a Carcinus when it got down to it. Sometimes, that meant being direct.

"Curiosity, mostly. I wish to know more about the peoples I shall be interacting with in the future." He glanced over the other delegates. "I am... well, to be frank, unimpressed."

The strange visitor sighed audibly, cutting her questions off and firing back a few of his own. "Are you the leader of your group? You venerate the Call, yes? The saving grace of the known world? I have heard of your bards, and I believe I have information that could assist you in your studies. But such information is not for the ears of just anyone."

For the first time since she'd arrived, Camille's smile faded and she pouted at him. She folded her arms, actually insulted. If she were 'just anyone' she wouldn't have been allowed to come here. "Well, monsieur, if you want a bard that's higher up than me, you'd need a Chanteur. None of which came to this party. But if you really want someone 'important'..." She jabbed her thumb back towards Seigneur Chastain. "The blue one's Seigneur Chastain du le Royaume de Chanson."

[Volthawk]

The Seigneur of Chanson

Paralith looks at Chastain, his statement getting the Carcinus' attention. This sounded like something he could use. "Is that so? Why not?"

The Kalacite Trio

During a moment not taken up by talking to another delegate, Paralith spots the Kalacites, his eyes narrowing. Cardinidan's neighbour. There were things to discuss there. Approaching the trio, he looks them over, seeing that none of them were the royals he knew of, before speaking. "Which of you speaks for your lord?"

The Mysterious Stranger

Seeing the activity around the stranger - excitable bards and druids are hard to miss - one of Paralith's advisors waits for an opportunity to talk to the stranger alone. He was thankful that it was he and not one of the warriors that noticed him - they would have just blundered over and caused a scene. Once he finds his opportunity, the advisor walks over to the stranger - not exactly subtly, given he was still a Carcinus, but acting in a relaxed manner before speaking to him in the traditional direct Carcini manner. "So then. What is your purpose for being here?"

The Companion Collective

When Felix appears to be free, Paralith approaches him, seeming a little more relaxed than he is with the other delegates. "Ah, Felix. Here to tell the people about your beliefs, as you did in my lands?" He didn't begrudge them for it, despite his own personal lack of faith - sharing something with a non-Carcini nation had been useful in encouraging diplomatic approaches to problems. He looks over the rest of the people present. "What do you think about them, the northeners? I think they might be useful."

[SerakHawk]

Danger, Fox!

Spoiler

Show

"Whoa whoa, hold up little one." He whispered, pitching his voice a bit higher as he continued to approach the fox. "Not gonna hurt you, just gonna take you outside before somebody stabs you..."

The soothing noises seemed to have calmed the fox, its eyes blinking slowly as the human approached. Yawning the fox lies down just as the human's slow approach brought him close enough to touch.

Marshall with his goals to take the fox out of the meeting picked Jelai up, the fox curling in his arms before speaking softly.

"Ahh, yes. I do love being held. Can you scratch behind my ear while you are at it?"

The Carcinidan

Spoiler

Show

When Felix appears to be free, Paralith approaches him, seeming a little more relaxed than he is with the other delegates. "Ah, Felix. Here to tell the people about your beliefs, as you did in my lands?" He didn't begrudge them for it, despite his own personal lack of faith - sharing something with a non-Carcini nation had been useful in encouraging diplomatic approaches to problems. He looks over the rest of the people present. "What do you think about them, the northeners? I think they might be useful."[/quote]

Felix was sipping from a bowl laid out on a low table when Paralith approached. Felix gave his large Carcini friend a toothy smile before replying. "You know me too well friend. Yes I have been sharing my beliefs, hopefully it is another items that can bring unity to these lands. I do believe these 'northeners' will be more than useful. I know you aren't fond of diplomacy, but these are trying times and we can't expect to go on alone forever. Shared bonds are good to be forged - and gatherings like these are perfect for it."

Felix shook his silver mane, stretching out his back while going into a standing pose.

"Tell me Paralith, what were our prospects ten years ago? Or even five? None of my people would have even thought of leaving the isles for fear of being shunned. We are at the cusp of something my friend, I truly hope it is something great."

[Volthawk]

The Companion Collective

"Impressing diplomacy to my people is an ongoing process, yes, but I am perfectly capable of it. I am just more willing to consider the military option too. For now, though, diplomacy will do. War this early into my plans would not be helpful." Felix's mention of the past had him nodding, though. "Carcinidan didn't exist then. Scattered clans more focused on fighting each other or neighbouring regions. This - walking among nations as a peer - has been the culmination of years of struggle, and wherever it leads, I intend to see it through. Whether it's something great or something terrible, the two of us have gone through enough already to not endure."

[SerakHawk]

The Carcinidan

Spoiler

Show

"Impressing diplomacy to my people is an ongoing process, yes, but I am perfectly capable of it. I am just more willing to consider the military option too. For now, though, diplomacy will do. War this early into my plans would not be helpful." Felix's mention of the past had him nodding, though. "Carcinidan didn't exist then. Scattered clans more focused on fighting each other or neighbouring regions. This - walking among nations as a peer - has been the culmination of years of struggle, and wherever it leads, I intend to see it through. Whether it's something great or something terrible, the two of us have gone through enough already to not endure."

A low chuckle spreads through Felix's frame. "Yes, we will see. Well I'll have my cohorts pass yours some of the information we discovered from this meeting of minds. You should visit the rainbow Isles sometime soon! Well, I think I will retire for the night. There is a long way to travel to be home again."

Felix rubs his fur along his Carcini friend before stalking off to find his mate and a proper place to bed for the night.

Between a Mage and Familiars
Chancellor Sukui El Niara later into the parties activities found herself approached by two identical looking kits of Felix Silvermane. The pair walked in unison through the crowd, weaving by each other as they approached the Chancellor.

"Greetings your.." "... Excellency. We are kits of the leader of the Companion Collective. We've.." "... heard rumors that your mages are summoning familiars and bonded companions. Our father has tasked us..." "... with finding out if they are being properly treated, in addition to seeing if any arrangements could be made to..." "... repatriate any familiars or companions who remain without a bond mate. As descendants of such we feel.." "... it is our duty to offer such services. In addition, we have..." ".. among our collective experienced bond companions who may be able to offer their services to aid in teaching your students if required. I'm sure some..." "... arrangement can be reached that is beneficial to both our kingdoms."

When one trails off the other picks up immediately without pause, as if it was one person speaking.

[Zayuz]

The Carcini

The druid looks up at him and makes a 'Hm!,' tempting a hand towards his lower body and then thinking better of it. "Oh! Then in that case you might not have heard of us. I'm Li Da - a powerful druid from Namaichi!" She raises her hands, vines wrapping around her arms for emphasis. "I work with Manastone University, it's a lovely school for those gifted in magical arts to enhance their talents." She pauses to consider just what to say about the swarm... Some of her enthusiasm dampens. "Yeahhhh, we did have a chance to fight the swam. My ancestors did, anyways. All our combat mages went to fight them head on with our King long ago, leaving almost nobody qualified behind to defend our city... When the tide of monsters came, those left gave their lives to protect what they could. The legends say that we were outnumbered twelve to one, and each could take on eight men at least. It was... Basically an extinction event! The thought of all the people and animals that we'll never get to see for it just breaks my heart - I hope that they're gone for good now. You look tough though! You'd probably do better than anyone. Do you think you could cut someone's hand off with the less-human claws there? How about a sword? I'm so curious."

The Host

The Chancellor and her companions give one another a quizzical look, but they seem to be on the same page. The head of Abjuration speaks, a woman with snow white horns, tied black hair, and a steel-hard physique. "We're sorry to hear about the tragedies that have befallen your lands. Manastone believes that violence should always be a last resort, and it is painful to hear that it has been inflicted on you so after the wake of the Swarm." The Philosopher speaks; the only male among them. He has a pair of thick glasses, a set of wings upon his back, and black curls. "We would love to have your book, if you write it. None would be more qualified to speak on the history of your lands, and many among our Philosophers would be interested to know the truth." The druid looks on sympathetically while Sukui speaks again. "Aye... And we are committed to building a better world for all as well. If the opportunity arises where we may help your people's conditions... Do let us know. Our many human subjects would clamor at the chance to aid their kin, particularly after any injustice has been dealt."

"Oh my god, I LOVE these tulips!" The druid suddenly drops into the flower field and examines them, scooping them nearer in her hands. The other three delegates shoot her a disapproving look for clashing with the tone of the conversation, but her attention isn't on them. "We don't have anything like this at home. You could make a whole new roster of dyes with these! ...They're wonderful."

Bards, Rogues, and Wizards!

The two girls erupt into chatter basically at the same time - and Li Da answers questions even as new ones are being asked. "Yeah I'm on the council! See the ring around the sigil? That's how you can tell. I think that Illusion magic sort of has singing but I don't think its quite the same? It's like fake singing but its still nice! Bardic magic is its own sub-field of philosophy because it worlds a bit differently from the arcane stuff - but it's just as valid even if it's not what our university specializes in. There are 13 schools because that's just how they're classified based on the inner workings of most spells and it kind of naturally rests there and if I had to pick I think I like the chill music with happy things they're just so relaxing... Uhhhhh I think we're descended from dragons! It's more like a strong alteration infusion that's persisted through generations but it does sometimes come with wings! I don't have any but others do, typically only good for gliding at best which is a litttttle bit disappointing but it beats nothing at all I guess. They say that ancient spells could grant people real wings but so many were lost to the swarm and the fires that we don't know how to do it anymore!"

The other two exchange some questions and answers and she seems to listen closely... "Our people would study the call too - if you have information to give I advise you visit Manastone and speak to the head of Philosophy. She's held the call as the object of her curiosities since she was a student! Her name is To Pan-Chao, and I'm sure she would be thrilled to meet you."

Between a Mage and Familiars

The twin familiars are met with a curious but kind gaze as the Chansellor examines them. Familiars with no masters... Yet they remained in this plane? How strange. Sukui sat at a table with some Kraastmas goodies in hand, and the two were welcome to hop up onto the surface to be at a more equal height if they wished. "And greetings to you too, dears. Your father's task is noble; I assure you that all familiars are to be treated with their due respect as our friends and assistants - there is even a code surrounding their treatment and punishment should it ever be violated. We do summon them when it suits us, but I would welcome your contributions to the code as some of the most clever helpers I've laid eyes on." The woman pauses, letting out a half-laugh at the absurdity of this. "I must say before we get into business, our familiars have neither your intelligence nor permanence. It would be impossible to have one unbonded by our spells, given the nature of the spell that anchors them to our realm. Am I correct in my assumption that you have no summoner among you? You... Reproduce on your own and guide your own will, without needing to return to another plane? It's most impressive."

[AlexanderML]

The Kalacite Trio

During a moment not taken up by talking to another delegate, Paralith spots the Kalacites, his eyes narrowing. Cardinidan's neighbour. There were things to discuss there. Approaching the trio, he looks them over, seeing that none of them were the royals he knew of, before speaking. "Which of you speaks for your lord?"

At first the three stood there, listening to Paralith for a moment, the girl having a perplexed look on her face as the bear scratched it’s head and the crow hummed aloud in open thought, the sound being similar to computers going through an error. Finally the blue-pants wearing crow answered, looking like it’d just struck an ingenious idea.

”Oh me, oh my! I think you mean me!” it looked down at the confused girl and bear. ”See, when they say ‘lord’ they mean ‘elder’! Learned that from Tuleos, so it’s probably right!” It’s gaze went back to Paralith saying “Good day sir!” with it’s practiced bow; then started to stare off into space unsure what to say next; afterall the reason he was at the palace so early and got picked was because he needed more Humanoid Interaction lessons.

Paralith sighed, a great rumbling noise, as he looked the three of them over before focusing on the crow. He'd heard some of his people talk about these things being hard to talk to, but he'd thought that was just the average Carcini personality causing problems. Evidently not.

"I see. Who are you then, and what is your involvement with your lord's affairs?"

The crow perked up, it’s eyes tearing up as it’s tail wagged. "I’m Jozo, and I was one of the ones Prince Yirol chose to send to this festival to ‘shut up Telous’s yapping about who should go’. I am one of the avian advisors to the king!” Jozo said with a puffed up chest, trying but failing to keep his tail from wagging.

Paralith nods slowly. If this was the calibre of their diplomacy, he didn't have to have much concern there - not that diplomatic clashes were the kind of conflict he was preparing for here. "I see. Are you capable of talking about matters of rulership, then? We control neighbouring lands, so there are things we need to discuss."

Jozo was visibly saddened at the topic of choice, he’d much prefer to be talking about how those legs Paralith worked and if it’s true that his species canabalizes each other, but for another time Jozo supposed as he sighed out a response. “Ah, I suppose. While I cannot give any promises, I know what is said to the king most days and what he conveys to others.” Indeed, his attendance was near perfect- besides those days where his feet got stuck on frozen metal poles outside the palace.

Finally, they were getting somewhere. "Good. Two questions, then. Do your people have plans for northward expansion, and can I rely upon your people to not take aggressive action towards us?"

Jozo nodded with a ‘no’ and so did the bear, which almost accidentally threw the girl on the ground. “No no no! The king’s a nice boy, his hobby is learning more about outsiders and I don’t think he’s got a mean shard in his head. He’s expressed interest in expanding to the eastern coast and down south, but the hills are a natural border he’s not willing to cross.” Jozo stepped of the girl’s shoulder and went onto the ground, muttering for a moment about coins, raising his voice again a second later “Oh, and Prince Yirol isn't about to start a war, I think, even he’s not that mean. Just… not a talker.”

That was encouraging, although with the way these people were he couldn't take it as a guarantee. "Good. In that case, we won't have any issues. Should I expect your leaders to talk through people like you in the future, or are they going to show their faces eventually?"

Jozo thought about it as he fluttered up to the bear back, trying to look dignified as he “Well, the king wished to come here, but Prince Yirol sent the three of us out before he was ready.” he wagged his tail again “Oh poor Telous, he’ll be jealous once we tell him of this! I doubt he’ll miss the next event like this.”

The girl who was currently chewing on a spoon nodded with a smile.

Paralith nodded. "Good. I prefer not to work through others in these matters. So to be sure, my message to him is that if he doesn't expand north or take aggressive action against me, I will have no issues with him or your people. Understood?" These felt like the circumstances where checking was important.

Jozo nodded quickly ”I’ll be sure to tell him that!” he said with enthusiasm. Wait, who was he talking to again? With some brilliant (for him) insight Jozo realized that just saying ‘metal crab’ as the name for who he was talking to would not suffice for the king. “Oh, what was your name? The king would probably want to know.”

The bear nodded, wanting the conversation to end so it could continue humming to itself.

Paralith just looks at him for a moment before speaking. "I am Paralith, lord of Carcinidan. The nation to your north. Don't forget that."

“Oh, OH!” Jozo said with a high pitched metallic voice, unable to hide his joy. [“I won’t forget, good elder!” he said, the bear starting to move again annoyed with this talk. Jozo made a bow motion again, a little less stiff, saying “Good day sir!” as the girl gave a wave.

[Epinephrine_Syn]

Kraast and Parlith stand above

Kraast took on his grin and sized up the warriors one by one. They stood head and shoulders (so to speak) above the crowd, and while none came close, it was close enough that the king was mightily impressed. “A challenge, then. I may just have to try that. The others are so much smaller that I never get a good tussle in on anything like fair ground.”

“If I knew there would be warriors here in these numbers, I would have prepared an arena of some sort for some good sporting competition. Maybe that’s still a possibility.” He closed his eyes, drumming fingers on his own thigh. “It would definitely make for a good way to make it known you had a presence at this event.” Waving his hand out towards the edge of the celebration to a relatively empty clearing down a valley, and that claw would have hit somebody were it not for his height above the frogs below.


The Fox and the Acorn

“You are very welcome to have my generosity, and please, feel free to ask any questions you like. I’m very open and have had few chances, both to talk or to be friendly, so I’m not going to chide you for indulging in topics important to you.” She took another sip, it seemed like she didn’t run out. Or maybe she just sipped so little it seemed to last forever.

”I will admit, there was a time when I was a young girl I dreamed of sailing the seas, to run away from this place. While that time has passed, our kingdom can still make plenty good use of an ability to sail the seas. On the matter of reciprocation, if there’s anything you’d like arranged for future meetings, cultural sensitivities, particular accommodations, I insist you let me know. Humanoids and Quadrupeds differ in enough important ways that I feel it prudent to get it right from the fox whether my generosity has been sufficient.”



“Speaking of cultural differences and motivations.” The princess never stopped smiling, and the atmosphere never stopped being one of sweet joy. And yet, it felt like that happy song was now playing in minor. “Would you mind telling me why that question is so important to you? A little more specifically, I mean.”

Manastone with an Acorn on top

“… note that down. Strongly consider writing an autobiography.” Princess Acorn said the words aloud, and a chime responded. It didn’t seem to come from anywhere. Yet it heeded her call. “But in seriousness, we’re working on vast projects to build peaceful monuments. We could even help build them in your lands too. I do believe us collaborating in building libraries and structures is much better than us doing it individually.”

The princess walks up to the druid, not seeming to mind her change in topic, half kneeling down also to take a look at the tulip itself. ”Also, I’ll arrange for our resident florist to speak to you. We may get to make that dye set yet, though if you do, be sure to share.”

As she stands back up and brushes off her long, flowing, jewel encrusted gown, she faces the rest. ”I am curious about how a university winds up in control of so much. I’ve heard some things about your kingdom, but not much. Just what do you wind up teaching down there?”

[Volthawk]

Kraast
Paralith grins as he looks out at the clearing (at least, it appears to be a grin - his face moves in a different way and his tone of voice changes to fit such a reaction, but a Carcinus face is...rather different looking than most races' faces) and nods. "If you are willing, I will see who among my people desire the opportunity."

The Druid
Listening to her tale of the Swarm with interest, Paralith nods in response to her questions. "A Carcinus is harder to injure like that - part of why we enjoy physical conflict with each other, I suppose - but a human hand would be no problem, if I was so inclined. I haven't tried a sword before - Carcini weaponry tends to be made to enhance what we have rather than giving a weapon to someone without any naturally. Perhaps not cut it in half outright, but the pressure inflicted wouldn't leave it in a good way. Depends on the sword too, I suppose."

[HalfTangible]

The Seigneur of Chanson

Paralith looks at Chastain, his statement getting the Carcinus' attention. This sounded like something he could use. "Is that so? Why not?"

[I'm not a snob but...]

"I had thought to discover tales of old I could bring to the bards. Long-lost technologies. New ways to wage war. Some remnant of the time before the Swarm." Chastain sighed and drank from his glass. "Instead I find we're all in the same proverbial boat. Perhaps I am simply disappointed that so much was lost."

Danger, Fox!


The soothing noises seemed to have calmed the fox, its eyes blinking slowly as the human approached. Yawning the fox lies down just as the human's slow approach brought him close enough to touch.

Marshall with his goals to take the fox out of the meeting picked Jelai up, the fox curling in his arms before speaking softly.

"Ahh, yes. I do love being held. Can you scratch behind my ear while you are at it?"

[Talking Animals]

Marshall froze in place. He sloiwly turned his head downward to look at the talking fox.

"... I, uh... I apologize. I... didn't realize..." Before he could really think about it, Marshall was scratching behind the fox's ear.

Bards, Rogues, and Wizards!

The two girls erupt into chatter basically at the same time - and Li Da answers questions even as new ones are being asked. "Yeah I'm on the council! See the ring around the sigil? That's how you can tell. I think that Illusion magic sort of has singing but I don't think its quite the same? It's like fake singing but its still nice! Bardic magic is its own sub-field of philosophy because it worlds a bit differently from the arcane stuff - but it's just as valid even if it's not what our university specializes in. There are 13 schools because that's just how they're classified based on the inner workings of most spells and it kind of naturally rests there and if I had to pick I think I like the chill music with happy things they're just so relaxing... Uhhhhh I think we're descended from dragons! It's more like a strong alteration infusion that's persisted through generations but it does sometimes come with wings! I don't have any but others do, typically only good for gliding at best which is a litttttle bit disappointing but it beats nothing at all I guess. They say that ancient spells could grant people real wings but so many were lost to the swarm and the fires that we don't know how to do it anymore!"

The other two exchange some questions and answers and she seems to listen closely... "Our people would study the call too - if you have information to give I advise you visit Manastone and speak to the head of Philosophy. She's held the call as the object of her curiosities since she was a student! Her name is To Pan-Chao, and I'm sure she would be thrilled to meet you."

[Now we just need a Barbarian]

"Oooooh! That'd be neat! Not sure if I could go personally, though. Or maybe I could! Ah, heck with it, I gotta now! Les sagas s'amélioreront si vous voyagez."

[Volthawk]

The Seigneur of Chanson

Paralith is quiet for a moment, the Carcini tendency to speak plainly conflicting with the need to be diplomatic, and with his pride in his nation intefering with both. "I see. You're disappointed we aren't your betters. Well, there's always time for that to change. The lands held by the lords here is only a small part of Drenath. The information you seek may still be out there. I wouldn't put too much faith in finding a perfect answer, though. Focusing too much on the past means you don't pay attention to the future."