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"There is a place. Like no place on Earth. A land full of wonder, mystery, and danger! Some say to survive it, you need to be as mad as a hatter."
The news spread all over Restov, Rostland, Brevoy and even farther than anyone would dare to imagine. The groups chosen to lead the new attempt to tame the Stolen Lands were:
- The Silver Dragonflight: "Shock and Thunder", as they were know since a few years back. The already impressive army of the Silver Dragonflight had become unstoppable since the addition of the Dino Rider, "The Edge of Justice" and the logistics and magic abilities of their business acumen.- The White Coven: Mysterious and Enchanting, the group had a sinister reputation. There were whispers of unholy rites and pacts. Of strange worships and relations with evil kingdoms. Of murder and disappearances. Of theft and smuggling. But the really informed and those who had crossed their path knew they were maybe the most powerful force for good south of the Lake of Mist and Veils.
- The Heroes of Restov: After saving the city once and again they were adored for most of the city inhabitants. The joy of having them chosen was equal to the tears of the many maidens that saw their dreams of becoming a wife for one of them lost. Anyway, they were the locals favorites.
- The Oracle's Shadow: This group of 4 infiltrators and spies were reputedly responsive of the disappearance of many a threat to the Rostlands, without the people at large knowing about it. Always discreet and covered in capes and masks, the rumor was that no one alive had seen their faces.
- The Cenobitic Order: Unknown by many this big group of Irori Monks, almost always silent, was a surprise for everyone. Rumors told they had lived in a secluded part of Iobaria wilderness, and were displaced and were looking for a new place to live. Never alone, they seemed like a very introspect and isolated party.
- Rudolf Ferdinand Aldori III: The most famous descendant of Sirian Aldori was selected to relocate, together with his state and Aldori Swordlords school to the Stolen Lands. "The Four Swords", his most gifted students, all members of the Khavortorov family, had a big reputation as charismatic troublemakers.
A big dinner is planned for tonight, were the Lord Mayor Ioseph Sellemius is going to address the selected groups.
Nevertheless, a couple hours before the appointed time, news break around the city. A delegation of Regent Noleski Surtova has arrived to the city. His own cousin, Rupert Surtova is leading them. And they are not happy.
Xi'Tir eyed the movements of the Dragonmen as they moved around their smaller camp like proud ants marching on their hill. Their strange ways made her shudder, the night before they celebrated like beasts and now that were orderly. So strange. These cold lands were nothing like the jungle home she missed. She scratched behind Chi's ears as she watched Chimalma sleeping nearby, the great beast was clad in his armor of hardened leaves. He was always ready for a fight but when her sister wasn't around he would become sleepy or just eat until she returned. This Brevoy had that effect on them, the land was cooler and required more work to just sustain oneself with the meager supplies the land provided.
How she missed the Mwangi...
She pulled on her cloak with a quiet sigh before stalking out of their pavilion, leaving the rest of her companions sleeping or grinding herbs as she moved around camp. Chi loped behind her, purring quietly and watching everything with her piercing eyes. She grimaced at the continued strangeness around her, she couldn't understand how or why they carried so much stuff with them. Especially the three she found herself traveling alongside nowadays. Those three were strangest of all and she was still getting used to their presence...
Seraph emerged from her tent and cast a critical eye around their campsite, watching as each member of the Silver Dragonflight went about their duties with a 'Can do' attitude. You couldn't tell that they had been celebrating heavily the night before by the ease they carried themselves, the drunken god blessed them with the constitution necessary to not be bogged down by regret in the morning. Satisfied with what she saw, she took a deep breath of the cool crisp morning air before stepping out of her tent and into the light breeze that had begun to dance its way through their camp.
The light breeze ruffled tent flaps, stirred up fallen leaves and carried the scent of the active forge, thoughts about what they were doing were at the back of her mind as she spotted Celestia emerging from a tent nearby. She sighed as she saw their armorer’s hair was in complete disarray and she was looking a little too smug. Seraph looked away from Celestia as she casually walked off; instead, Seraph turned in time to watch as the light breeze danced around their esteemed banner. Making the dragon banner dance as if it were alive momentarily and inspire another moment of pride. As the banner settled down she spotted Xi’Tir stalking around camp again, Seraph never quite understood the quiet sister of Ni’Tir or why Danath had so easily joined forces with the strange Mwangian’s. However she understood the usefulness of the large beast Ni’Tir rode into battle, it’s tail hit harder than any battering ram and the creatures natural armor was nearly impenetrable to most standard weapons…
However whenever she looked at Xi’Tir she wanted to take hold of her sword lest the woman suddenly turned on her. Same with the feline that walked alongside her how one could trust such a predator with ease was beyond her. Mastering her features, she went and approached Xi’Tir. ”Hail Xi’Tir we missed you last night, are you well?”
Xi'Tir looked at Seraph warily as she approached her suddenly, at Seraph's question she shook her head. This Dragowoman made her uneasy, as if something wasn't quite right with her and she didn't trust that she couldn't remember her past...
Chi feeling her companions unease moved quickly and walked around the armored woman, sniffing at her and rankling her nose at the smell of so much oil and other cleaners...
Seraph refrained from raising an eyebrow when Xi'Tir replied in her usual strange way. "A pity you didn't join us it was quite the bash. I was wondering however if you wanted to accompany me into town as I have some things to acquire before we make our way into the Stolen Lands."
Xi'Tir and Chi shared a look before she shrugged and looked towards town with a unrestrained grimace.
Seraph nodded, pleased that Xi'Tir was coming with her. Hopeful she will come out of her shell someday... "Lets see if any of the others need something as well."
Kaldwell was on edge. Okana knew he hadn't seen any members of his family for some time, and now news had reached them that one of the Surtova's was going to be involved with this attempt to claim the Stolen Lands. Okana didn't really understand Kaldwell's rejection of his kin and blood, but that was fine - it was his buisness, and he knew he could call on her if he needed anything.
The half-orc glanced around at the assembled might of those heading towards new lands. It certainly looked like an impressive attempt. There was a great deal of strength here - of will a well as martial and arcane power. Still, the Stolen Lands could swollow armies and leave not even the bones. Okana suspected the key to taking the place would be alliances. She wondered how many of the assembled warriors would agree?
She noticed the two human women talking and nodded her head respectfully to them. She hated to interupt other people's conversation, just in case they wished to be private. Curiosity shouldn't extend into the affairs of allies, after all.
Still, she wasn't sure what to do with herself while Kaldwell prepared. Mostlikely working out how many knifes he can hide in his formal clothes she thought with a small smile.
Halcorg steps out from the quiet inn. He prefers the quiet of the woods or plains, but his beloved directed them here, so here he was. He thought about the other groups in the city now as he reaches down and scratches the ears of the cat standing next to him.
The Silver Dragonflight, what a presumptuous name. Admittedly, they were skilled in the saddle, but what when they met foes where mounts were impossible. Or giants with their long reaches. Halcorg pauses for a moment and scowls: I hate giants.
Next is the Heros. More like a bunch of over pampered babies. Sure, they are good with their blades, but what are they going to do when feathered beds and servants are days away and all that is available is what can be gotten from the land?
Then there are the two groups, the unseen and the unheard, the The Oracle's Shadow and the The Cenobitic Order. No group who never spoke or remained unseen could be up to good. Undoubtedly those groups would eventually seek to pervert the Stolen Lands to their own twisted goals.
And, finally, the Lord. Rudolf Ferdinand Aldori III. wWho insists on referring to themselves with such pretentious a name? A person should be known for their actions, not because they had a famous ancestor.
With that, he once more reaches down and scratches the ears of his furry companion. A sleek snow leopard. Light grey in color with black spots and a bright white underbelly, the alpine cat is a companion not to be trifled with. Sighing with the thought that the prophecies had brought him to this alien land, he turned around to see if his beloved was prepared to set out on the day.
Xi'Tir glanced warily at Okana as she listened to Seraph speak, she hesitantly returned the nod before looking back at town with a grimace. She had no real thought about any of the groups, only that it meant more strangers she had to deal with. She longed for the days in the Mwangi but until her sister was satisfied she was stuck in Brevoy surrounded by strangers...
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Both woman enter Restov, and notice how the locals heads turn wherever they go. Their height and imposing physique, together with the stark contrast of the readhead and the mwangi side by side, makes people move aside and let them pass. They all know they are not to be messed with.
In the store Seraph gets the ring she ordered, and can't, even for a brief instant, imagine if the ring was a wedding ring.
They leave the store and outside, in the street, there are half dozen guards with the Royal Dragonscale Throne heraldic on their tabards. In front of them, a man of some 40 years, tall and bearded (even if not as tall as Seraph), smiling at them.
Okana decides to follow the women. She can't avoid smile at the impact she made in the street. You could imagine all of the city knew where they are, while her knew how to move in the streets without being noticed. The women entered a store.
And she notices how a lookout, after spotting the store they went in, runs away towards the city center.
Preparing for the worst, she finds a place to see what will happen, and be able to be of help if that is required, and is not spotted by the Dragonscale guards and their leader when they arrive to the store.
The man has what you can only describe as a royal look, in attitude, clothes and manners. While not being "pretty" he is very masculine and you notice his sword and scabbard, while of excellent quality, and very probable magical, is very well used.
"My ladies, pardon my imprudence, and let me introduce myself. I am Rupert Surtova."
While Halcorg waits there, a young swordman approaches him... He things he recognizes him as one of the so called "Four Swords".
"Hey, barbarian, is it truth that the women in your lands are as ugly as hyenas?"
Xi'Tire was taken aback by so many armed men seemingly confronting them and for a moment she reacted as she would have prior to meeting the dragonmen. She glared st any that appeared to bw mocking her intent on proving herself if she had to to these dogs...
Chi stood beside her and gave a low threatening hiss at the sudden appearance of so many smelly humans.
Seraph extended her right hand slightly, palm down to get Xi'Tir's attention and hopefully calm her down before a misunderstanding occurred. She did this simultaneously with bowing her head respectfully for High Lord Surtova. She kept her eyes averted and her tone friendly and cordial, it was one thing that Danath had taught her.
"The pleasure is all ours High Lord. How can we help this fine morning?"
She regarded Seraph's motion for Silence coldly at first before realizing the delicate situation they were in. She remained silent and didn't so much as bow her head before this cretin and his lackeys until she saw Seraph do so. Then, begrudgingly she nodded her head breifly in an uncertain bow.
These Breovian's were strange and she had a hard time understanding these redundant customs. She decided then to scoot Chi behind her and remained silent, hoping that this noble would leave quickly...
While Halcorg waits there, a young swordman approaches him... He things he recognizes him as one of the so called "Four Swords".
"Hey, barbarian, is it truth that the women in your lands are as ugly as hyenas?"
To expedite things, yes, he is looking for a fight... Just in case you accept the challenge Swordman
Init:
Halcorg simply sighs as he retrieves his earthbreaker from his shoulder, his klar already on his wrist.
The Barbarian ladies you refer to are called hyenas because they hunt and devour lowland fools such as yourself.
With that, Halcorg goes into more of a defensive crouch hoping to avoid combat if possible.
Move Action: retrieve weapon/klar
5-foot move away from the man -- will move farther if the swordsman was not within 5' to start with.
Standard: --> Readied Attack:
Damage:
He also calls out in a the clear Taldan tongue that he has learned over the past few years.
Guards, a swordsman is disturbing the peace on this day of celebration.
As Halcorg readies himself, Eraitar moves around behind the swordsman prepared to attack and flank should the swordsman move forward.
While perched petting his monkey, and people watching, Mulray sees the exchange between Halcorg and the swordsman with something to prove.
"Best watch yourself lad, you may have been raised dueling for sport, but you are picking a fight with someone who flattens skulls for sport... just the same good luck."
The monkey Lil Karou covers his eyes anticipating a gruesome ending for the swordsman.
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"The pleasure is all ours High Lord. How can we help this fine morning?"
Rupert Surtova smiles and you and looks to his back, at the Dragonscale throne guards.
"Sorry about that. Please drop the "High Lord", and call me Rupert. If we find each other on the road, as adventurers, I am sure you won't call me "High Lord", but as a comrade-in-arms."You three ladies are not so sure of that, as the usual men you find on the road don't have the presence, manners and magnetism he has.
"I have been told you are part of the teams selected for the Stolen Lands colonization effort, I am right? I have to say women as yourselves seems like the right people for the job."
After you confirm who you are, he continues.
"Well, I need you to convey a message to your leaders. May I approach?"
He refers to Xi'Tir. He seems to want to whisper something in your ear, and is waiting for your approval. You imagine he didn't choose Seraph to avoid having to tiptoe to reach her head.
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The young swordman lets you draw your weapons, while smiling.
"Guards? You are not afraid of me, right? And my mates are taking care of having the guards have something to do, and let us have out fun without interruptions."
He draw his Aldori Dueling Sword, and mocks some warming up movements.
"I like a man of action... at first blood then? And without pets, what do you say? I wouldn't like to harm your kitten."
He moves his head towards Eraitar...
He starts moving towards your left, the Earthbraker side, looking for an opening in your defenses, moving his feet gracefully while he does so. Maybe he is a rash impulsive man, but he sure how to move in a duel.
"I hope that huge thing you carry is useful for more than construction work."
You only hope he could stay silent.
At Karou he says, without lowering his guard.
"Don't worry small fellow, I won't be to hard on Baldy here... I didn't knew pets where in this year. Maybe I'll get some "barbarian" women to be my pets. Some not to hairy ones."
He chuckles at his own joke.
Reaffirming his grip on his earthbreaker while making sure that his klar is secured,
I do not know what your dueling rules are. But, when one draws a blade in the Cinderlands, it is only for the purpose of slaying something . . . or someone.
I shall attempt to keep you alive should you choose to not surrender.
With that, Halcorg moves forward using his earthbreaker in one hand and his klar in the other in a rather strange style of fighting common only among the Shoanti. As Halcorg approaches, Eraitar moves into a flanking position. As a signal from Halcorg, the cat maintains its position behind the foolish swordsman, but does not attack, but instead growls and snarls at the swordsman attempting to distract him.
Round 1
Attack-earthbreaker: <-- -2 2-weapon fighting, +2 flanking, +2 aid another
Damage:
Klar:
Damage:
Confirm Crit:
Damage:
Eraitar - Attack(aid another):
Halcorg grins as his earthbreaker lands with bone shattering force.
Sure you do not wish to surrender. Oh, and as you requested, my "kitty" is not attacking.
Round 2
Attack-earthbreaker: <-- no aid another
Damage:
Klar:
Damage:
Eraitar - Attack(aid another):
Once more, the earthbreaker comes crashing down on the soon to be bloody pulp of the aldori. Halcorg grins once more and then regrips his hammer while adjusting his klar hand trying to get the small bladed shield into position to strike the man. Unfortunately, despite several close swings, the man continues to just dodge the Shaonti bladed shield.
Round 3
Attack-earthbreaker:
Damage:
Klar:
Damage:
Eraitar - Attack(aid another):
With a third solid strike being landed from the earthbreaker, Halcorg once more offers surrender to the man.
You are covered in blood, don't you think it is about time that you returned to your girlfriends to have them lick your wounds?
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Rupert Surtova smiles and you and looks to his back, at the Dragonscale throne guards.
"Sorry about that. Please drop the "High Lord", and call me Rupert. If we find each other on the road, as adventurers, I am sure you won't call me "High Lord", but as a comrade-in-arms."
You three ladies are not so sure of that, as the usual men you find on the road don't have the presence, manners and magnetism he has.
"I have been told you are part of the teams selected for the Stolen Lands colonization effort, I am right? I have to say women as yourselves seems like the right people for the job."
After you confirm who you are, he continues.
"Well, I need you to convey a message to your leaders. May I approach?"
He refers to Xi'Tir. He seems to want to whisper something in your ear, and is waiting for your approval. You imagine he didn't choose Seraph to avoid having to tiptoe to reach her head.
Seraph nods in acknowledgement of his request, moderating her tone as she continues to address her better. She still doesn't meet his eyes and is surprised at the defiance that Xi'Tir was displaying. "As you wish Lo... Rupert." Before saying anything else she looked to Xi'Tir hoping she responded appropriately...
Chi gave another hiss as he began to approach and Xi'Tir shooshed her with a simple click of her tongue. She then returned Seraph's concerned look coldly, before looking at Rupert. After a long moment of consideration she spoke in a clear voice with a clear Mwangian accent. "Sure mon. Whot ya needin'?" The way she speaks makes it clear she doesn't care much for this meeting as she fidgeted uncomfortably from so many eyes being on them now. Even more so when the giant Seraph and her were walking down the street, she couldnt help but feel these Brevoian's were gutless. WEll Except for the Dragonmen...
Once this Rupert was close she bends down enough to hasten his departure and lessen the uncomfortable itch that crawled across her skin.
Seraph kept her face neutral, hiding her embarrassment, as she really wanted to scold Xi'Tir for her defiant nature. However she knew it wouldn't work because, unlike her sister, Xi'Tir seemed to know no restraint when it came to speaking. She was as blunt and forward as an Earthbreaker to the face...
Perhaps Lord Danath needs to teach her some manners as well...
Danath sneezes suddenly, feeling as if someone were nearby he looks around cautiously before continuing to get ready in his personal tent. Alastair arrived just as he finished strapping on his armor over his noble outfit. He waved for his Captain's second to enter and close the tent door behind him.
Alastair waited patiently for Danath to address him along with Helio's perched on his right shoulder. With a few finishing touches Danath was ready for the nights coming dinner where they would officially initiate the charter and prepare to make a sanctioned attempt at reclaiming parts of the Stolen Lands. However a number of events were bothering him and despite their lack of informants he had enough men to at least stay abreast of the goings on in town.
"Alastair I need you to hand pick some men and ensure we stay aware of what is happening in town, spread the word to the crafters as well to listen to the local gossip when their out buying supplies. The more we know the better and the more surprises we can avoid hopefully."
Alastair nodded, all to aware of what was brewing behind the storm colored eyes of his Lord Commander. "Anywhere we should focus our efforts sir?"
Danath nodded at Alastair's question. "Have some men investigate the delegation so we have some type of an idea of what it is about. If we can get an overall idea of the other teams we are dealing with we may be able to discover their motivation in this endeavor. They are to avoid Rupert Surtova at all costs, if they happen to hear something then that is fine but we need to avoid conflicts at this crucial juncture." His eyes danced over a map of the Greenbelt that Xi'Tir had lent him, the word was more of a threat then a friendly term as the woman seemed cross with everyone but her sister Ni'Tir.
He rolled up the map and put it carefully back in its scroll tube, tightening the tops to protect it from moisture. "Other then that we are to resupply and ensure we are ready to move at a moments notice, I won't have our force lagging behind these other groups if we can help it."
Alastair, having been clearly dismissed, salutes Danath with his hand palm down over his heart and a small bow. Helios merely adjust his grip as Alastair went through the motions. "I will see it done Milord." With that he turned and left Danath's command tent, giving the young Lord a moment of quiet as he steeled his resolve.
A great many forces are on the move, none so large as the Dragonflight yet and hopefully if we are swift we can take a position of strength in the newlands somewhere. May Cayden lend us strength to seek out freedom outside of Brevoy. He gave a small prayer before strapping on his sword and looking presentable for the coming dinner.
Stepping outside his command tent he was pleasantly shocked to find Aru his war elk already waiting for him, along with his loyal bodyguard's as well. The five woman who made up his bodyguard appeared slight of frame but were strong enough to wield their Lances in one hand just as well as he could, especially as he was their trainer after all. Among them was the Standard bearer Silandra Whitfield, she held a smaller version of their banner and held her position in the center of his bodyguard with her usual stubborn look. Normally he would talk her into remaining behind but he didn't have the time to worry about such minor details. Especially as they were camped just outside of Restov.
Climbing into the saddle, Aru gave him a grunt as he flicked his horns impatiently. He didn't even touch the reins as he used his knees to guide Aru into turning around so that he could address his bodyguard and the lone Ensign. His stormcloud colored eyes searched each of them as he spoke. "I am to attend the state dinner tonight and we are to be on our best behavior. Praise be to Drunken one if everything goes as planned, however do not allow yourselves to be goaded into starting a fight. If forced into a fight then do your best to retreat, if that means leaving me behind then do so and report back to Alastiar. We cannot afford to be blamed for starting trouble at this time, we must prove ourselves as the shining example." His words were beyond contestation, despite the look of defiance some of his bodyguard gave him when he basically ordered them to abandon their duties. Surprisingly Silandra remained silent, for which Danath was Quietly grateful as the woman never saw reason easily. Satisfied he turned and gave Aru a light tap in the ribs which motivated the Icerime Elk into a low trot towards town.
He will assign eight (4 melee Man at arms and 4 archers) to pair up in groups of two and find out what they can about the delegation and these other teams, while avoiding any incidents with Rupert Surtova if at all possible.
Ni'Tir was pleasantly surprised to see her sister had already gone and upon rising she roused Chimalma and got her boon companion cleaned off and ready for the state dinner tonight.
Seeing Danath and his bodyguard readying to leave for town she jumped up on Chimalma's back and the odd pair joined him and his retinue. "Why does we h've to go ta dinner for a simple charter?" She barely hides the humor in her voice as she found the way Brevoians went about their daily lives to be exhausting and wasting a lot of time on formalities. She was thankful Danath wasn't too bad about his habits, making an alliance with him all the easier.
Chimalma's tail swung lazily back and forth, much to the worry of the calvary woman riding behind them as the three deadly spikes swung a little too close for comfort.
Ni'Tir's comment would have caused a normal man to grimace at her uncultured approach to things but Danath understood her constant need to question things as Brevoy was still a very different place from her homeland. "It's protocol is all Ni'Tir, it's also a simple way of getting to know your friends and possibly your enemies as well."
She stifled further laughter by covering her mouth and feigning a yawn before nodding at Danath's simple explanation. Her laughter came from the thought of whether or not they had protocols for how daily life was performed too. Did ift govern bowel movements? Was incense lit before or after private moments? Questions she would and didn't ever need to know~
She calmly kept her thoughts to herself as they made their way slowly towards town Chimalma was sadly slower then thair horses were...
Okana watched in surprise as Kaldwell’s blood kin approached the other women. She didn't aply enough attention to be exactly sure of what the relationship was between Kaldwell and the man before her, but she could certainly feel some of the same air of sophistication and self-assuredness that spoke of riches and power.
Still, the man wasn’t interested in her especially, so she stood back and listened to what he had to say. Maybe, just maybe, he’d say something that would be useful. She doubted it – the noble houses were too practiced for such a slip in this kind of game, and he was liable to deny any words that couldn’t be pinned down to boot – but there was always the chance.
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I shall attempt to keep you alive should you choose to not surrender.
Round 1
Attack-earthbreaker: 1d20+13-2+2+2+2 <-- -2 2-weapon fighting, +2 flanking, +2 aid another
Damage: 2d6+7
Confirm Crit: 1d20+13-2+2+2
Damage: 4d6+14
Halcorg grins as his earthbreaker lands with bone shattering force.
Sure you do not wish to surrender. Oh, and as you requested, my "kitty" is not attacking.
The young man falls to the ground, grabbing his arm, his sword at his feet, grunting in pain.
"Damn me to hell and back! You, big brute, you broke it!"
He looks up at you and smiles.
"I got to buy you a drink! The others won't believe this! You are the best!"
He raises his other arm for you to help him stand.
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Rupert approaches at xi'Tir's ear, and whispers to her:
"I beg you inform the leaders of the selected teams, no matter what they think or ear, I am not here to impede the Stolen Lands colonization. I am here to help them."
He stands apart, and continue speaks to both women.
"I beg from you to be discreet with the information I just told you. Please make haste and tell it to you leaders before the dinner. I know I ask too much from you, but I need to depend on you for it. I hope the next time we meet is in better conditions. In the Stolen Lands."
He then bows towards you and departs.
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From where she stands Okana realizes a lot of thinks others would have missed.
First... the Dragonscale guards are not here protecting Rupert Surtova. They are here guarding him. Like if he was a prisoner or a criminal.
Second... Rupert himself suspects it. He is whispering to Xi'Tir because he don't wants the guards to know, and they are trying to eavesdrop, without success, it seems, with their reaction.
Third... even in this circumstances Rupert is keeping his cool and abilities. He seems a very capable man, in this kind of "games". He remembers you of Kaldwell.
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Halcorg reaches down to the proffered hand and helps the man to his feet.
There is no need. The first ale is on me. I shall warn you, however, that the Shoanti are an honorable people. There are many people from lands you might call barbaric who would not have the restraint to stop when they had an advantage as I did. In the future, I would hope that you would take the time to learn your foe before drawing steel, or the next time might be your last time.
Halcorg then bows as is Shoanti custom before turning to return and check on Kiritta.
She stands upright and gives this Rupert Surtova the briefest nod as she searches his face for a moment for an inkling of deception. When he departs and his guardsmen are far away she spits on the ground. Chi resumes her low angry growl watching the armored humans make there way away from her master.
She looked to Seraph then. "D' ye trust that mon?"
After Rupert said whatever he had to say to Xi'Tir, Seraph felt like there was something amiss. More so when Xi'Tir asked her strange question. Without hesitation Seraph replied quietly, using her peripheral vision to see if anyone was nearby or listening in beforeshe spoke. "We don't have much of a choice if his family is joining in this game of thrones... Why do you ask?"
Xi'Tir grimaced, wishing the man had talked to someone else, all these little Taldan's made her skin crawl. Especially a man too afraid to speak aloud. Honoring what he asked of her though she shook her head at Seraph. "Not h're, too many ta hear us. Best to write it down."
She wrote it down and made sure not to including anything pertinent or identifying in case the message was lost or stolen.
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She was surprised and mortified when they stumbled into Danath and the rest of the group when they were making their way out of the city. Shuddering with how much she restrained her dislike for being the center of attention. She looked to her sister and made a hand signal which Ni'Tir understood instantly. She leaned over and whispered to Danath. "Gonna need ta talk quiet." NI'Tir ran a single finger over her lips like she was shushing someone to emphasize her statement.
All the while Xi'Tir looked more and MORE impatient for this to be over with.
Seraph never liked how close Ni'Tir seemed to be with Danath, she had nothing against the woman but they had talked once and it was clear Ni'Tir didn't mind Sharing. However Seraph did. She barely kept her face neutral as the exchange continued.
Danath nodded when they met up with Seraph and Xi'Tir, he was pleased that Seraph had received the signet ring. However he was caught off guard with the overly hostile way Xi'Tir looked, the shaking wasn't helping her appear any less hostile. However when Ni'Tir leaned in and spoke to him he nodded in recognition to what she meant.
He weaved a symbol into the air, creating several runes visible only to the arcane eye as he connected himself to Okana, Xi'Tir and
With their voices barely above a whisper and being right on the outskirts of town it made things easier. If someone was listening in they would be more easily spotted. He raised his hand, all his fingers curled in save for his extended index finger and then he made one slow circle in the air. Wordlessly his bodyguard took up the order and encircled those that were speaking, placing their rattling hour, stomping hooves and the natural sounds of heavy horses moving to help make it harder to listen in.
"We have a few minutes, speak only in a whisper and the four of us will hear. What is it you have to tell us?"
His eyes moved from one woman to the next as he watched their faces.
Xi'Tir flinched at the sudden whispering in her ear from Danath, it was far too close for her comfort. As his bodyguard tramped around into their positions she handed the note to her sister, making sure it remained folded up lest someone was watching. All the while the pair of siblings casually observed the area around them, Ni'tir never looked over her shoulder as Xi'Tir did that for her and she for her. It was how they had survived so many years, the less obvious they were the more trouble they spotted and then avoided.
"Rupert be tellin' us that he not gonna impede our work in The Stolen Land. Asked us to be discre't like about telling dis, only wanted ya leader types ta know mon. Wantin' us to believin he was our friend he says. Tha was a strange mon there."
As Xi'Tir spoke, Ni'tir carefully unfolded the message and read over its contents before folding it back up. Her eyes narrowed ever so slightly at the indications this information could mean and how they were needing to be informed before the state dinner. What game is this one to I wonder?
Xi'Tir nodded, her work done and dismissed the effect that Danath had casted on her. As the spell snapped apart she stalked off angrily, she would need to bathe after this experience and then hunt something to make herself feel better...
The news came as a shock but no one would have been able to tell as Danath sat astride Aru with a stoic look. He quietly took in the information and exchanged a brief glance with Ni'Tir as she confirmed what she had read on the note. "Excellent work..." He was interrupted by the sudden loss of connection with Xi'Tir who apparently had had enough and stalked away, bristling like a wet cat.
He dismissed any further thoughts on her as he remade the connection to include someone else of import and spread the news that had received. Information is power but being informed win's more battles then hoarding the information for ones own benefit... He nodded at Okana's interpretation of the guards and Rupert possibly being more a prisoner in a political sense then free willed. Most likely the Surtovan family is going to steer their puppets as they see fit, this calls for more investigation. I'll need to expand the Dragonflight to include informants and worse comes to worse. Thieves... "Again excellent work, we are most indebted for your moments of discomfort there. Is there any other news that needs to be shared? As our time grows less by the moment."
The sudden shout from outside followed a moment later by a thud and a voice begging to surrender that was not her husbands, Kiritta turned back to the cards laid out on the floor before her.
-->Wis-LE -- The Eclipse
-->Con-NE -- The Sickness
-->Int-CE -- The Snakebite
-->Wis-CG -- The Publican
-->Wis-LN -- The Queen Mother
-->Int-NG -- The Wanderer
-->Wis-CE -- The Lost
-->Dex-LG -- The Dance
-->Wis-N -- The Owl
The cards appear very mixed. Nothing matching and only three, The Lost, The Queen Mother, and the Snakebite, even a partial match. The Lost in the negative past? Perhaps a warning that those we have met in our travels shall return to haunt us? But this someone, what is he or she . . . or it. Whoever, or whatever it was, it is no longer of a sane mind and shall have to be watched for with great care.
Turning to the other cards, they are more difficult. The Queen Mother in the middle, what does that portend. Kiritta sits back and gazes outward, beyond the known and into the misty realm of the unknown. The Queen Mother in the now. This shows that we must partake in the activities of this day. Today is not a day for freedom, but a day when we must abide by the rules of the land, as strange as they may be. Kiritta suddenly realizes that she must speak with Halcorg regarding this so that he does not insult anyone who may have customs different than his.
And finally, what does the future hold. The Snakebite. Kiritta shutters at the evil that this card frequently brings forth. But, it must be read in a positive light. It appears that those who face us may be turned upon them selves. Enemies may turn on enemies, but always we must watch that those who oppose us do not use poison to destroy our bodies or our souls.
With that, Kiritta carefully gathers up the cards and places them in her waterproof case which she then places within the magical haversack she uses to carry her belongings.
She then stands up, straightening her bright yellow billowing pants and adjusting her red top to avoid drawing too much notice from the more conservative people of the land. Well, lets see what trouble my husband has gotten himself into this morning. It is only a few hours until the ceremony, and I do not need him in jail because someone offended his Shoanti ways.
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Everybody on the three teams is surprised about the encounter and message of Rupert Surtova, but even more with Okana's abilities and keen observations (specially Xi'Tir and Seraph's, which where unable to she her).
Do you let the other three teams know (the NPC ones)?
Arriving at the dinner you see its a lavish and protocollary affair, asyou expect it to be. On one side a way to start the relationship between Restov and the new "kingdom", and on other show the resources and lifestyle of Restov, and the promise of help to the upstarts if they keep on Restov's good graces.
But the center of the evening is Rupert Surtova, all regal and charming, but at the same time the symbol of the Dragonscale Throne yoke over Rostland, and an unexpected guess to tonight's celebration, with a dark clould of uncertainty about his business here, and the intentions of the Regent about the Stolen Lands reclamation.
So, while people talks before the dinner and the formal speeches..
- Anyone wants to talk to Restov's Mayor?
- To Rupert Surtova?
- To the grave Halfling that follows Rupert around (probably a helper, page or second in command)?
- To the leaders or members of the other teams?
- Restov nobility members?
- others?
Although social situations are not her strong suit, Kiritta carefully scans the assemblage seeking to determine whether there is anyone who should be spoken to, or anyone on the other teams who might have the political wherewithal to cause problems to the White Coven.
Knowledge(nobility): <-- as usual, the white haired woman in the bright Variasian clothes is not paying attention to what is going on.
"We will be late Edel" - his sister's words warned him again - "This is much of what we have come here for... Can't that book wait for a couple of hours?" - she had begun to start sounding exhasperated.
Edeldhur stood up, closing the book with a smile - "We can leave right away Dali. Relax, I was only aiming at finishing that particular subject - it had been bothering me for some time"
The wizard was already dressed accordingly to the occasion - the nightshade blue robe was one of his favorite garments - having been offered to him by his grandfather, some fifty odd years ago with a single cryptic piece of advice that he thought he had started comprehending over the last few years - "Understanding the world around you is not all about comprehending the metaphysical difference between Arcane and Divine, or the mathematical reasoning behind opening a time portal versus a space translocation - it is MUCH more than that. And one of the most overlooked understanding is how to present oneself to others"
He felt comfortable and reassured in his appearance with the beautifully designed and crafted robe, and his sister confirmed it - "Yes Edel, you look beautiful" - as she kissed him in the forehead.
He held her at arms' length with a smile, admiring her practical beauty - her long elven light brown hair tied in a perfect ponytail, which evidenced even more the perfect shape of her long pointed ears and elegant neck. He knew she would not "dress up" for the event, but she had clearly made an effort - her garb was perfectly clean from any dust stains, and effectively it was not the one she used when out in the wild - the earth green brownish tones were pervasive, of course, but the garment was a perfect fit for her strong body, fitting to her solid curves and still practical enough, just in case - all finished off with a leaf pattern cloak - "You look beautiful Daliedhur. You ARE beautiful" - he winked as she shrugged away from his jest, Edeldhur laughing as he knew she was uncomfortable with comments about her looks.
Edeldhur's hair ran freely on the other hand, still not able to prevent his long elven ears to show beneath it - his dark brown eyes glimmered as if they took all the light from the room - "It is time - Let us go"
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As they entered the assembly, he was able to recognize most faces - After all, they had been around for quite some time now, and he made a point to know who is who in Brevoy. He insisted with Daliedhur to enter the gathering with her arm on his. As much as she shunned such type of social obligations, she acquiesced, and followed her brother lead.
The makle elf felt proud striding into the room with his sister - he was proud of all they had accomplished so far, and made no pretense of hiding it. He offered polite nods and warm greetings to all those wh may address him - All we have done has brought us to this point... he pondered to himself while he pondered his next step.
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Kiritta carefully scans the assemblage seeking to determine whether there is anyone who should be spoken to, or anyone on the other teams who might have the political wherewithal to cause problems to the White Coven.
What she notices is that, as always, the Oracle Shadow is only represented by their sleazy proxy Saul Magill. The nerve! He even insinuated to her on one reunión. How is that that crude man had been chosen by the Oracle Shadow was but but one of their many misteries.
And also she noticed how the two representatives from the Cenobitic Order stayed on one corner of the room, almost identical, bald and with their simple whitish robes, without taking with anyone nor eating or drinking. She couldn't even know if they where the same pair that had participated in the proceedings or a different ones. Always males, always apart, always with the same clothes, expression and quietness. She couldn't like them, as far away as her own Varisian customs.And of course, the four swords were there, and between hitting on every young female in the party they huddle together and talked looking towards Halcorg, the one with the bandaged arm doing most of the talking and gesturing.
@Corsario
Ni'Tir watched her sister go with a frown, she would have to talk to her soon about this attitude she had. As it appeared to be worsening and she needed to stop it before Xi'Tir went too far to be saved...
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Arriving at the party she reveled in teasing the flabbergasted stable boys, as very few had ever seen a creature like Chimalma. Not wishing to torment them further she released Chimalma to wander in the field nearby, knowing he would stay out of trouble for now.
She followed behind Danath closely and tsked at ever bit of protocol that went along with this dinner affair. So much wasted effort, over blown pride and importance that it soured her stomach to see so much wasted for the sake of presentation. She started to have more respect with the simplistic approach that the Dragonflight approached things, they wore shining armor but they were not overly obsessed with it. Unlike these nobles that surrounded her now in all the new fashions, colors more diverse then a rainbow and waving their fans to cool themselves in a room so full of bodies.
She wore a smile that never touched her eyes, she would have followed her sister if she had known this affair would be so overdone. However she washere and she would make the best of it, for the sake of the Dragonflight and her band she had to play nice with these pampered children. Her armor morphed into an open gown which allowed her to be able to stay cool in the ever warming room. It left little to the imagination but she was unconcerned with lingering eyes, as long as they kept their roaming hands to themselves.
However standing besides Danath she found more eyes were drawn to him and it was of little surprise, he wasn't half bad looking and attired in full battle gear made him stand out more then most would.
Prior to entering the state dinner Danath mae sure to refresh the message spell, casting it on Nitir, and lastly himself. "If we must speak keep it short, feign a yawn or subtle laugh." With everything discussed quickly before hand they made their way to the dinner.
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Shining like liquid quicksilver and moving fluidly through the reception hall Danath moved with purpose, it infused his being. He wasn't as scantily clad as Ni'Tir, no, he came to impress the assemblage and to make a point if needed. On his hip was his peace bonded blade, beneath his armor he wore his noble clothing and the Orlovsky seal adorned his signet ring. His armor shined resplendently as he finally entered the main chamber where the dinner was to be held, he quickly took in the sights as the murmurs began to start. Among this assemblage of nobility there were few soldiers and far fewer came looking prepared for battle.
He made note of all the small details, the groups arrayed around the room and most of all the exits in case things went south. The overly-proud looking elves standing arm in arm as they spoke to a gable of people surrounding them. Other groups had arrayed themselves around the room, allowing an easier time to search faces at times and get a feel of where they stood in this ever shifting game. This was especially important as house Surtova was exerting its influence here and after his last fateful run-in with them he took nothing for granted. Before they separated he ran his hand over his chin, feigning a look of consideration. "I'll handle Lord Rupert." He didn't wait long before making his way towards Lord Rupert, however his progress wasn't unheeded...
His status as a bachelor made him popular with the ladies, who harried him at every turn at events such as these. It didn't help that all his physical training made him appear as if he were chiseled from stone. The magic he employed daily cut out everything that would spoil his looks and so he always appeared perfectly healthy, toned and well groomed. His hair was cut short in the style of most Brevoian soldiers, he was clean shaven and his storm cloud colored eyes made a few women fan faster when he looked at them. He was glad his dragon scaled armor was like a second skin, as he had to dance his way though sycophants, admirers and worse to finally break his way through to Lord Rupert, who was the very symbol of Surtovan royalty at the moment. Danath had a hard time believing that this man wanted to be there ally.
Seeing the guards around him Danath made sure to announce his presence and addressed the guardsmen. "I wish to approach Lord Rupert for an audience if I may."