Again and again Sealith showed a ferocity that tore into the Son of Terrak that was blade and blade with Alexis- she was confused, only for a moment, in where the man before her had gone. But two claws of a dragon was more than enough to gouge out either side of his rib cage.
Sealith turned and angrily snapped onto the shoulder of the final Son of Terrak.
The final Son of Terrak threw his sword to the ground and fell to his knees No, wait... WAIT! I can, I can tell you where he is! I can tell you what is going on! PLEASE! Please! Alexis! We only wanted- the man stopped-
Twigs and branches snapped as The Mother during the commotion, with the help of Chelya and Binsk, had finally removed the vines from herself so that she could move freely again. She walked, her sabers in step with her, and stopped next to Sealith I am glad to have you here. You are right- Her eyes darted at the man nearly sobbing as he was on his knees A Mother is there not to protect one over the other, but to protect her entire family. Matthias is here?
The man shook his head furiously I-can-take-you-to-him!
The Mother tsk'd Alexis, my Champion- you are my blade where as Gogrin is my mind. In a matter like this- what do I do with him?
Alexis grinned The laws regarding a traitor to the Sons of Terrak are clear- and these men are the first to ever break their vows.
The Mother nodded As I thought.
Without a word, Chelya and Binsk pounced onto the helpless son of Terrak, tearing him limb from limb and devouring him before Sealith. A few tears could be seen rolling down The Mother's cheeks as she wept and turned from the gore I tried... I tried so hard to keep this all from happening..
Alexis walked over to comfort her, an arm around her shoulders Sssssh, ssssh. It isn't your fault- it is not your fault. It is theirs. And Matthias... Matthias is going to pay for what he attempted to do.
Sealith watched this as he was torn limb from limb. She did not stop watching until it was over.
Feeling no remorse or pity for one who would betray their loyalty. Creating water over her claws and cleaning them quietly as she listened.
"One can not prevent things such as this. As with everything, it must continue to flow and move. Things remaining stagnant end up like this. Matthias. I take it he is a brother or family member? An Heir?"
Moving to Vasu she would let Alexis comfort her and touches her to heal her wounds.
"Will we be getting any rest before confronting Matthias?"
Alexis straightened up Kerjak went to get my armor- I haven't worn it in sometime. I'll be meeting him just outside, and then I have to go find Matthias- hopefully your group is ok. You won't be getting any rest quite yet, but you don't have to follow. I'd prefer if you both stayed with The Mother- despite her... Abilities... She is not very inclined to violence.
he did what he did best, a fay trick, coming fast from beside the violin player, he cut his instruments stings with one slash of his adamntine sharp sword.
Try's to get away after the cutting swipe.
"Hard to play a good tune puppet, when ones strings are cut"
The hooded ethereal man turned violently towards Lord Perpireen as he attempted his escape, dagger tightly in hand as he dropped the wand and violin
But Lord McGibel was much to fast for the violinist man, and made a clean escape to his destination.
Meanwhile the unarmed man moved in on Telula, a sudden bounty on her head as the cost of her most recent spell
The punch landed directly into Telula's solar plexus, knocking her out and down into the rich soil of 42.
The last things she could hear before passing out was Ha HA! YES! I DID IT! Master Matthias!?!? DID YOU SEE?
Suzume's blade made a second clean cut across the man who had stepped to him earlier, and he fell to the ground soaking the snow in his blood.
The other two quickly completed their flanking agenda, one opening up yet another attack of opportunity as he moved in on Suzume, the fainted Telula just behind him as her assailant moved in as well-
The man flanking Suzume's left easily dodged his deep lunge with the Katana, but the assailant who had moved back into Suzume's sight on the right got a large, unwelcoming cut into his side with Suzume's blade.
More blood staining more snow.
The man grinned as he attempted to return the blow
And the man landed a kick square into Suzume's chest as the other moved in-
landing a punch right across Suzume's beak, knocking him down to the ground with Telula.
The Bard, just called "Master Matthias", now turned upon Lord McGibel with a frustrated frown You are the smallest swordsman I believe I have ever seen.... I should keep you. Your friends, as well. Arthur, Carter- take them. They are going to come with us when this is over. And you- well you won't see us again for quite some time, Lord McGibels.
Monologue Incoming through the eyes of Lord McGibel and Alexis
Lord McGibel could not see the foul man who had just cast darkness upon them all, not yet, but he could suddenly hear a few familiar voices, two of them Sabers.
He killed the mother... now we kill him.
Silly Matthias... Can't you see us?
Chelya and Binsk could be heard tearing one of Matthias' men apart, wounding the other with a loud roar as then Alexis charged in
MATTHIAS! This has gone on for TOO LONG! Mother was able to forgive you for as long as my sword remained still, but I won't do it any longer. You die here, Matthias.
Lord McGibel could see everything, now- Suzume and Telula were already hoisted and gently carried in the arms of two gorillas, Kerjak at the forefront baring his teeth with Chelya and Binsk.
Alexis stood in magnificent and glowing armor with a mannerism completely changed from dinner not so long ago- and the light lance she had created stabbed into the ground as a radiant and holy torch, her glowing sword in the other hand.
Matthias stood not ten feet away from them- but there was no longer just one of them, but two.
Matthias began a hideous laugh at Alexis-
But she resisted his spell with her own murderous and cocky look about her, her tiefling tail still moving side to side as she moved in on Matthias-
Both of them ran-
Lord McGibel saw the truth of what had happened- Matthias had not created one mirror image, but two, while making himself invisible as soon as he had created the dust of twilight.
Despite seeing through this tactic, Matthias escaped in what remained of the over 400 feet of the darkness he had created- leaving only a single henchman for Alexis to chain, capture, and assumedly take to the prison.
The gorillas brought Suzume and Telula to a hospital near The 42nd Vault, with constant guards and protection watching over them as Sealith and Lord McGibel patiently awaited for them to wake up, only to fill them in on what had happened last night so shortly after they had been knocked down by the assailants.
Vasu breathed hard.
Breathe in...
This was all very... Confusing. Only minutes before, she'd been speaking to Master Mother in broken Auran. Then the strange male had quite rudely barged in on their little chat, yelling in a foreign tongue. Vasu's movements after that point had been strictly mechanical, slashing at her foe in typical roguish style.
Breathe out...
Now everything was suddenly fine and dandy. And still nothing had been explained to her.
Breathe in...
She shook her head. The movement was becoming increasingly familiar.
And out.
Whatever. She'd never been one to ask questions.
With a swift flick of her beak, Vasu plucked several of her chest feathers, and grabbed them delicately in her foretalons. The boring lessons with the Order's medic were good for something, at least. She stuffed the soft feathers into a painful, bleeding wound on her leg.
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Suzume snickered as his foe had been felled to his feet.
"The most these men will ever be remembered for will be as stains on my blade. Pity them."
He was surrounded. Kicked once, then struck across the beak. Suzume managed to gather the strength to spit on his attackers face and utter a curse before he went down.
Hospitals gave Suzume the creeps. The sick and injured reminded him of worse fates than dying on the battlefield.
He slowly picked himself up, rubbing at his head.
"Ugh...How much did I drink last night?" He coughed, looking left and right. "Where's Beru?"
No one, in there stupor, had quite realized that Gogrin was also in the room.
He was dressed in an all black robe of sack cloth, a cheap rope as a belt around his waist and a raven on his shoulder that he fed a tiny seed- it looked as if the Raven, perhaps, smiled.
A solid, comforting dwarven hand gently kept Suzume back as he picked himself up from the comfort of the multi-bedded room- Vasu to his Left, and Telula in a similar bed on his right.
Be at ease, friend. Beru is in the stables not too far from here. I hope you did not mind- we wanted to ensure he did not sustain any wounds. As you most likely can tell, our granaries for our animals here are most likely of the most pristine in the world for an animal's health.
Gogrin sat down in a wicker chair near the standing Sealith and fluttering about Lord McGibel, a hand upon his head.
With a tired sigh, Gogrin stared down I suppose there is some explaining that has to be done- you'll have to forgive me. Even as the self-proclaimed "Father" of 42.... There are things that, until this morning, were kept from me.
Vasu's golden eyes glinted in the light of a slowly dying lamp, her body lying on top of her bedsheets. She had carefully chosen this bed in a specific corner next to an empty mattresses. Unfortunately, the space became occupied by a creature of Vasu's ire, the flightless tengu. It didn't take long for her to begin muttering a spiteful prayer under her breath in the language of the skies- a language too pure and sacred for a flightless mockery of a bird to understand.
"Huṣ. Nīvu ṭunaiṭ nidre hōdāga, kaḍime devvada hosamari, Kēvala nīvu naḍedu banda beṅki kanasu. Narakada āḷa rinda nim'ma kanasinalli svargakke nōḍi hōgi nidre ākāśakke nōḍi mattu māḍalu. Ondu dina, nīvu bhūmiya kaḷe kaḷuhisalāgide sāvira pyres beḷakinalli aḍiyalli nim'ma svanta koḷeta koḷe suḍabēku endu tiḷiyiri nīvu hāralu endigū artha; nelakke cainḍ ā hinsisuva mēle imyākyulēṭ ons kaḷuhisida mattu ā svatantragoḷisuvudakke yāru pariśud'dhavāda Tytos mūlaka svargakke. Ōh, āḷuva, adu irali."
Her shimmering pupils never left the wretched crow as she prayed, though closed in respect to the Immaculate Ones as her beak ceased its tiny, quiet movements. Vasu finally felt comfortable enough to sleep.
Sealith after the fight had moved to Vasu and carefully pulled out the feather she had put in the wound and placed her hand over it letting healing flow through her.
"Didto, nga kinahanglan motabang sa pipila sa mga kasakit. Makalibog sa adlaw ug sa gabii kini daw."
-----------The Next Morning
Sealith had healed a bit of her own wounds and was helping tend to the patients. Moving over as Vasu started to mutter to see what was the matter.
"Ang tanan nga ra Vasu? Ang imong mga kadaot nga nagsamok kanimo."
"You have a lot of explaining to do. Who is Matthias? I know he is related to the mother in some form or fashion. What other things can you piece together for us before we deal with another attack?"
Turning to Vasu she would translate.
"Siya pagdahum adunay pipila nagpatin-aw nga adunay nga na- siya nangutana kapasayloan. Bisan ingon sa-sa-kaugalingon nagmantala "Amahan" sa 42 .... Adunay mga butang nga, hangtud niining buntag, mga gikan kaniya. Butang kami makahimo sa dayag pinaagi sa pagkamatikod nagtuo sa mga butang sa mga tawo sa palibot ug sa unsa nga paagi sila makig-istorya. Ang ubang mga butang sa politikal nga atubangan.
Ako misulti kaniya. Siya adunay usa ka daghan sa pagpatin-aw sa pagbuhat sa. Sama sa, nga mao ang Matias? Ako nasayud nga siya nga may kalabutan ngadto sa inahan sa pipila ka matang o fashion. Unsa ang ubang mga butang nga mahimo siya sumpaysumpayon alang kanato sa dili pa kita-atubang sa laing pag-atake?"
I told him. He has a lot of explaining to do. Like, who is Matthias? I know he is related to the mother in some form or fashion. What other things can he piece together for us before we deal with another attack?
Matthias....
Gogrin stood, his red beard almost orange in the morning sunrise peaking in through the window. He moved, slowly, to the window, now stroking his beard with a nervous gesture and his back to the group as he continued
Matthias is The Mother... No. Not anymore- Matthias is Elyse Oak's brother. He was supposed to be dead just a few years ago after he attempted to assassinate his sister for control of the Angel-Oak. He was a mad man... Always spouting some nonsense about the Angel-Oak possessing more power than we used it for.
Gogrin turned back with a sigh It appears that The Mother lied. Our own group of community organizers, here called "The Communal", is currently performing their own investigations and indicting Elyse for her lies and endangerment to 42. I am the interim... Father... of 42 while we await for the conclusion of her case.
We found that The Mother hid who was killing the saber cats and witnesses from the attack on the eastern wall with some sort of connection she has to the Angel-Oak. This is why we originally assumed the attacker was a druid like us; the one that kept away their identity had to be somewhat skilled in dealing with animal handling, strong enough to interrupt the connection The Mother has with every animal here in 42.
Instead, once again, she lied, hoping that on her own private terms she could use the Sons of Terrak as a mediator between Matthias Oak and herself. Matthias' killing of saber cats, instead of meeting with her, was a testament of bad faith in rejection of all her proposed terms every time they met.
The Sons of Terrak she used in attempted negotiations are the three that turned on Elyse last night- and stopped in partial thanks to Sealith and Vasu. It appears from their chants and words they wanted to bind Elyse to the Angel-Oak, or perhaps sacrifice her. It will require many more hours of studying their spellcraft and remains to determine what exactly their plan is.
There is one thing I now know for sure, revealed to me through a tome left behind by one of the killed Sons of Terrak, something Elyse has yet to confirm...
"Master" Matthias is the leader of this "Revelation" that has been tearing through all of Terra Nix.
Gogrin's fist tightened as he moved back between Sealith and Lord McGibel-
It was clear that this entire event had both caught him off guard and enraged him. His Raven, sensing his discomfort, hobbled from one end of his wide shoulders to the other, then lovingly and gently nuzzling its beak into Gogrin's thick dwarven neck. He gave a small, sad chuckle as he pet the raven with a single finger.
From what I can tell, though, my scaled friend- I don't believe there is going to be another attack for some time. Last night... was a full moon. Quite large, in fact- I believe for some reason that may be a part of their ritual that involves the Angel-Oak. I'm afraid I have not had enough time to study beyond that- in fact, I have been analyzing and coordinating with the Communal's teams, and Alexis, since I awoke only a few hours ago.
I sleep in the vault- a silly custom I've done for a decade or so. It appears I won't be able to do such a thing anymore.
He had done it broken the Violin and danced away. he was having the time of his life, the fay lands where dull compared to this. The came darkness an tricks. It had taken him but a moment to see past the glamour, The Fay after all had seen his share for such tactics. He was impressed by how skillfully it was done, and spent a moment admiring it. He suddenly thought maybe he should call out as to what had been done. But it was of no use. The mad brother of the oak Mother had made his get away into darkness. O Perpireen went after him, flying over the blackness but nothing came out. But there where things off here, Mother had a lot more knowledge than she was letting on. For him to be here in her very ranks with her own trained. Well that was for later.
"More magic to get away, o and what a kind hummm"
He looked on unseen as the others where taken to the heal-house. He spent some time seeing what he could find of tacks and items of the dead. Nothing much that could tell him where Matthias would hold up. He came back to the heal-house and kept an eye on the healing.
He stocked flying and landing on the dwarfs shoulder opiate the raven with a nod to it. Then he got out his small pipe and smoked.
"Well meet master Raven, I hope your Fa-miler is useful.
He nods to the dwarf.
He takes off again as Gogrin gets worked up. From over head on a beam he says.
"This was a fine plan of dear not-so dead mad brother Matthias. Fain your death and build up forces. A to soft sister and weak minds in the ranks to twist. But that magic he used, dark stuff, as a Fay I have seen such before, mind bending fiddle and shade powers. If "Master" Matthias is the leader of this "Revelation" as you say, I would like to know who has he been doing deals with to know of such dark and evil things, humm"
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He rested back as he heard the whereabouts of Beru. "Good... good... ." He sighed. "Gogrin-San, you wouldn't happen to have any books on linguistics I could borrow during my stay here, would you. It's been a few years since I learned a new language in my traveles."
He heard something bitter from Vasu, memorizing the phrase word-for-word so that when he had finally picked up Auran, he'd know what she was saying.
He listened intently at the revelation of the Mother's deception, nodding once or twice, but otherwise remaining silent, his eyes intently on Gogrin's.
"My deepest sympathies, Gogrin-San." He said with a slight bow. "I know that all of this must have been hard on you. If you do not mind my asking, have you talked to the Mother since these reveations?"
Though Gogrin is not happy with what is going on with The Mother, he isn't exactly "unhappy" with his new position in 42, or the changes he will attempt to bring about.
Gogrin nodded his head as he returned to his seat, stroking his red beard with a nod to Lord McGibel and Suzume I have. Well, more I spoke, and Alexis questioned, and she remained embarrassed and silent. Despite 42's love for her, The Mother is not a politician, nor has she had much of a public face. She withered herself away inside the Angel-Oak day and night, feeding us all, taking care of us all. Or so we thought.
Regardless of the trivialities, and the Mother, my study has plenty of both for both of you in regards to learning and resources. Actually, I was going to re-propose a new deal to your... "Speaker". Or rather, I already have. When we are finished here, he will summon you again.
The terms of this new negotiation, in light of The Mother's... dishonesty... are simple- Alexis and her blade, Cinder Shade, are going to reform the Sons of Terrak. An epic and widely proportioned task, as this has never been done before.
As a result, we require services from each of you- someone will need to take over Alexis' Metallurgy as her consult and co-opt manager.
We still need others to gather forces and coordinate with Alexis' Metallurgy on repairing the walls as well. This will require both significant magic and other resources in order to perform.
We need someone to also form a new guard- the animals were an unreliable guard source- it is time to build a guard source of men and women; their minds are harder to tamper with, and the next controller of the Angel-Oak will not be able to hide their dishonesty so easily.
Then we need someone to be my voice, my representation and, if need be, bully across 42- someone that can silence, hopefully without violence, any dissidents that plan on joining this "Revelation."
I cannot have fear stoking this kingdom, and it is sure to rise with both a current invasion and a change in leadership.
Gogrin took a deep breath as he speedily listed his plans, ending, of course, on himself
Finally, I will need a partner to aid me in my studies and help with running the 42nd Vault now that the entirety of my time will be spent running 42, in addition to the trade route we will all eventually have to collaborate on.
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Suzume emmited a low hum. "Is it at all possible for me to speak with the Mother? I think I have some questions for her."
"Sounds like no small task indeed." He scratches at the feathers near his chin. "Of those tasks, I believe I might be most suited to helping form the new Guard, though I do have meager sill in honeyed words and forceful persuasion." He coughed into his sleeve. "Wherever you see me the most useful."
He stepped up and snickered. "Your library... it is close to here, correct?" He limped towards the door after everything that needed to be said had been said, nodding in another fit of thin laughter as he passed Vasu. "If I am going to be of use to this party, I should be able to understand all members."
Just a moment!
Gogrin quickly stood up to Suzume I... I apologize if I seem rushed, and of course you can see the Mother, but before you leave, we should hack this out first. And...
The Speaker is here for you all when you are ready...
He... Is in quite a... "mood".
Sits by the bed smoking a tiny cigaret, he had just rolled and placed in an odd straight pipe. He smiles and says,
"I think I would be of use as your Voice, eyes and ears Gogrin, your aid if I may, a bully if needs be, a negotiator and ear to the wispering winds. I worry not of my size, I may be small to you Giants. But I think I can always find muscle I need to aid me, that is when arms need physically twisting."
Looks at Sealith.
" I also know more about playing the grate game than most here, "Speak with tact and carry a very big stick." As the halfling psionic say."
Then in
"Power comes from knowing what others do not, and to do that you need trusted eyes and ears in places"
Father Gogrin knows this all too well. Locked in his study for hours and hours. We appreciate it, and accept your offer.
Gogrin gave another one finger pet to his Raven with a small, hushed voice confirming Lord McGibel's suspicions of a familiar relationship between the two. Thank you, Archimedes. He popped another seed into the Raven's mouth with yet another exhausted and stress filled breath and stroke of his red beard.
If this continues I may need to borrow that pipe of yours, Lord McGibel.
Telula awoke suddenly in her bed, sitting up a little too rapidly while clutching at her breast bone. Collapsing on the bed once more, she heaved heavily as if struggling to breathe for a moment. Almost as instantly, breathing became easier as she took in the blurry scene about her. Where am I? The Majar thought as things started to clear, recognizing her companions. "What, what happened?" she asked weakly.
Gogrin put the back of his hand to Telula's head, ensuring she didn't have a fever as he spoke in a soft voice You were knocked out, nearly dead, by one of Master Matthias' men. As I told the others-
Gogrin then very quickly divulged Telula in what had happened with Sealith and Vasu, her own group, and how Matthias so very nearly escaped custody. He also recapped what had happened with The Mother, was currently happening, and the job assignments
He sat back in the wicker chair, another seed handed off to his Raven Well, do we all have an idea for a role you believe you could play here in 42 as we rebuild and upkeep her? I will not allow hundreds of years of history to go to waste because of Elyse's mishap and dishonesty.
Sealith listened to the story before stepping aside and talking with one of the nurses there. Turning back to the group she asked sternly.
"Why did no one have the animals track his trail? You have a plethora of creatures that can hunt by scent. Our sight may be fooled but without strong magics scent is much harder to do so. Did you have any owls that could see in the night? Maybe they could have followed him." Her voice was harsh, biting, but there seemed to be more behind her questioning than meets the eye. "He will continue to cause trouble unless you deal with him. Trust me in that."
When Telula jerked up her face softened and she stepped forward to put a gentle claw against her shoulder. "Rest easy Telula, you are among friends. Sorry if my raising voice woke you."
Looking to McGibel. "You are referring to me? As your intimidation and muscle I take it. I take great pride in the fact my races' mere look could frighten some. But we must take into consideration. It is possible some in the city take Matthias side. I suggest, as we work, to get to know the people and find out about them. We could spend all the money we have but it won't leave the lasting impact that helping them and doing favors for them will. Though, some will be impressed by the money. Before, the events of last night, Elysa had requested myself and Vasu to scout outside the walls. To see if forces are amassing. I do not believe that is a bad idea. As for the things you suggest. I could do a couple of those things. With the one caveat, that I don't have to touch anything. I have a slight condition that could make things end badly if I do. McGibel has already volunteered to be your voice and bully. With, I think possible plans for me to do the later. I am forthright and honest and though I can say sweet words I have learned truth gets more done. So if you chose me for such a role it would be that."
A nurse brought over a tray with cups and a teapot. "Thank you. Gogrin, I had them make you a special tea that will help. I suggest everyone share it. Ashwagandha Tea is really good with milk. We have been through a stressful day and evenings. This will help." Walking to the pot she cast purify food and water to ensure no toxins were in the tea before waving at them to serve themselves.
"As I was saying, I could also help with building up your guard. Though, I am not primarily a fighter, my people are a warrior race, so I carry that with me. The third thing I could help with is the studying and making sure you get out of the study and into the city when you need. Though again. I will need you to turn pages in books."
Turning to Vasu she would translate what has been said and what she said and then asks.
"What do you wish to do?"
Gogrin sipped the tea with a particular fondness and look at Sealith- some of it spilled on his red beard, creating droplets for the rising sun to color and shine into as he grinned, pretending he did not hear the first lines of Sealith's questioning and that they were only directed to the group.
You have a... certain patience about you, Sealith. You know, Alexis has told me and many others of your feat- you are too humble before your friends; I know what you were capable of, and did, inside that Angel-Oak to one of the Sons of Terrak. And-
So do the people of 42. En masse. Unless Lord McGibel sees a need for your services I believe you are the perfect candidate to begin recruiting soldiers for my, I mean, 42's, new guard.
Gogrin then leaned in to Sealith after gently waving a finger for her to come closer
In regards to that condition, my curiosity will ask about that later when we gather for dinner. Please do remind me afterwards.
Father Gogrin, in addition to detect magic, has a hunch that there is more to Sealith than meets the eye, but can't quite place his finger on why she wouldn't be able to study with him.
Sealith would turn to Suzume. "I can not teach them weaponry Suzume, but I have heard you are well versed in it. I would say you take lead. I can sit back and get a feel for people as you recruit if you wish."
Seeing the motion she would move forward to Gogrin and listens quietly. Nods quietly to him not saying anything in return.
sat and watched them talking, his mind was all ready running ahead once Sealith took to the idea of helping in the intimidation department.
"Sealith I would ask you to be no more than you are, and that is good. Where I will be dishonest, devious, manipulative, sneaky, crafty, cunning, entrapping, eavesdropping, skulduggerus, you will be honest, forthright, justifiable, vigorous, enforcing, official and most of all dependable."
He stood putting his pipe away. He waits until the medical staff are gone and its just them.
"Remember I fight Matthias directly. He talked to me directly and by name. Made a most unoriginal jest about my size and making me his pet. That was a mistake, we Fay take such things quite personally. I have found revenge is a dish always best served cold. He should worry about that if knows any thing. That jest will be paid for."
He look at them all each to there face, you could tell he meant his words.
"As for tracking Sealith, I tried to track him, believe, but he did a clever bit of double casting there at the end."
now he was happy to tell them the tail.
"You see I had cut the stings on his magic instrument, the one that plays a tune on minds. That angered him, and ot us time. As the others came hes power lessened he ran, casting a darkness, i know the spell. but it backfired, the Sabers cam and darkness added them, his men fell. Then Alexis used a Light Lance on him, mashed away the darkness, so he sort to use a Fay spell of all things. It did not work, as Suzume and Telula were being hoisted and gently carried in the arms of two gorillas, with Kerjak at the forefront baring his teeth with Chelya and Binsk. O you should have seen Alexis, standing there in magnificent and glowing armor with her mannerism completely changed from that at our dinner. She had him, the light lance she had created stabbed into the ground as a radiant and holy torch, her glowing sword in the other hand. And Matthias. he was stood not ten feet away from them- but there was no longer just one of them, but two of him. Both hideous laughing at Alexis. A cheap trick it did not work, but that was a ruse. But such trikes are bread and water where I am from and I saw the truth of what had happened- Matthias had not created one mirror image, but two, while making himself invisible as soon as he had created the dust of twilight.
But despite seeing through this tactic, Matthias escaped in what remained of the darkness he had created-eleaving his last man for Alexis to capture. I went after him, ask a few animals to help, but not having a trace magic-port spell to hand, it was to no eval. He had his getaway planed well in advance, he dos so like his evil plans or dear sweet Matthias. So you see he was looked for and still is being, if that magic-port was short ranged then he my still be in town. A door to door may be in order Sealith, but softly, softly"
He flow over to the bed and landed on it.
"This next thing can't wait, if I am to be your voice then we have to get our story right about what just happened. Last nights events. You see the fist order of business is to change Matthias name in the minds of the city dwellers and if we can outside. We can uses last nights events to our advantage. Harts and minds win wars along with arms and troops. He is known as 'Master' Matthias, by all including us. That name is far to respecting a power and empowers him, we will take that away in the minds here. Matthias the Mad should be what we call him. Simple so animals and others understand it. We will play up his insanity, the way he lead his own followers to there deaths. Have bards sing of his madness, his irrationality and craziness. He once spent a day thinking he was a god, ordering rocks to worship him. He keeps the body of a dead fish, that he talks to and calls wife. We lie and we Reducible him. The we say only the sick in mind would follow such a mad man. we will paint him an evil sick and twisted mad man who seeks only distribution and death for all.That will be Matthias the mad and any who seek to follow him just as mad and foolish. Here is the hard part for you Gogrin, mothers lies and work can be used by us. She was not bad, she was tainted by her bothers madness, this must be the line we project even in court. Her trail will be a show case for us to place Matthias the mad in the dock. If I think he is a I think and his ego is as big, we will not have to tack him, he may come to us. But that is a plan for later. For now we must set the stage and painting him as sick and mad starts that. There are other things but that's for later. Last night Matthias the Mad sort to kill the grate Oak and all including mother with it, such is his madness. Once that story takes hold, any i dear he may have a brighter future for any one will be put to rest. He will find it harder to gain followers in this city if they think his true aim is to lay it to wast. Why want this, because hes been tainted by the wilds outside. The line we take on him must start today. He who controls the news controls the perception of truth. As I said Sealith, Skulduggery is my talent."
As a medic comes back he gos silent, but looks at the others.
As Telula gently sat back up and too the offered tea, she had an epiphany about some spells to add to her book. Which then got her thinking. After a few sips she said, "Gogrin, if you're needing help in scholarly work, I may be of assistance. I have a bit of a knack when it comes to that sort of study."
Gogrin gave a sigh of relief
And here I thought none of you would be able to aid me in that regard. Excellent, very well. We enjoy that prospect, don't we, Archimedes?
Gogrin gulped the rest of his tea and set it on the table before hesitantly pointing at Vasu
What of her? I'm afraid I don't speak, uh, Auran, is it? I have spells for such a thing, but I'd rather not exert such energy right now.
Vasu looked to Sealith and hesitantly raised an eyebrow. When she finally spoke again in the tongue of skies, even the non-speakers of Auran could tell that she was stuttering.
Trailing off, Vasu roused her neck and chest feathers in an attempt to regain some semblance of confidence. At that moment, Gogrin thrust his finger toward her and spoke in some of the Common jibberish. Vasu simply narrowed her eyes in response and turned to Sealith, whispering accusingly into her ear.
Sealith looked at Vasu as she collected herself and gave her a reassuring smile. If a smile filled with sharp teeth ever could be reassuring. Leaning in she spoke quietly back at her.
Tilted his head and said slowly.
"That wall, Right, Sealith true words, Vasu job pick for dwarf"
He seemed very pleased with himself.
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Suzume nods to Sealith. "You do appear to have a good sense of people, Sealith-San. Sounds like a good idea to me."
He pages through a book on Auran he had picked up by his bedside, already picking up the linguistics of the breathy language.
Telula spoke in perfect Auran, "E kore e manukanuka ki tetahi tuhinga i roto i te Haurana, mohio te reo tino pai."
Now as the others talk he flys over to the door to check who is eavesdropping if anyone. Then he go's to the window, sits down a looks out at the city. As if taking in the sites.
He looks around at them.
"Mother will try to get away, by the way."
Then he go's back to looking at the city, lost in his own thoughts.
Gogrin stood firm from the wicker chair, his chest puffed out as he prepared to go back in public I have... Yes. Archimedes and I have decided.
Gogrin moved before Sealith You, with your nature... Yes. You and-
Gogrin pointed his stubby dwarven finger with a grin at Lord McGibel-
You will both spread blessings of Father Gogrin wherever The Communal orders. You will spread and gain influence for my new order, assure the people of stability, and tell me of those who are beaming with loyalty, as well as those without it.
Gogrin then moved to Telula You... You remind me of Alexis, when she was younger, at least. Yes. I believe you will be a splendid help to me in both my research and the running of the 42nd Vault- the help is much needed.
Gogrin gave a comforting "no pressure" pat on Telula's shoulder as he moved on to stand before Suzume.
Suzume- I hear you fought as well as Sealith. Alexis and Kerjak both mentioned there was plenty of blood in the snow well before they started their own campaign against Matthias.
You will recruit an elite task force of my own for me throughout 42. Between you and your soon to be reunited with Beru, I do not believe you will have trouble handling yourself in any pit you may decide to wander into. We do not have a standing human army, so I recommend you start with the basic laborers. But more of that later.
Gogrin walked to the door before slapping his head and turning once more You! Vasu- I promise we will find something for you by the time we all finish eating dinner together in the common area- until then, well, unfortunately I don't believe we can keep him waiting any longer. Nor the Communal and The Mother.
As Gogrin led the group outside of the Inn they could see a scorch mark in the ground from Alexis' fabled "Light Lance" and how pale the fresh soil had become from its radiating light at the time.
There was still a slightly eerie, deja vu feeling about outside the Inn, but Gogrin did not seem to notice any of it or care.
Waiting directly outside the inn was what appeared to be a basic stable boy holding Suzume's Beru, who was quite irate that he had not been allowed to go into the hospital to see his old friend. After a tiny bit of a struggle, the stable boy managed to hold Beru off from charging through the doors with a little bit of feed.
After Beru was handled, Gogrin walked the group to the Angel-Oak Tree;
Standing before it was the Speaker; not in his own dimension, but in the flesh. Or, rather, some sort of flesh. Unlike in his dimension they had been brought into, his blue skin seemed to be more like wavering clouds-
It was similar to Matthias' skin, Suzume, Telula, and Lord McGibel remembered. As if he had skin, but it was almost a pale blue tinted wind.
His mannerisms appeared different as well- he bowed to Gogrin before Gogrin disappeared into the Angel-Oak after a second-thought turn to say Do be quick- The Mother will be sentenced within the hour, Speaker.
The Speaker gave a wicked grin as he nodded, turning to the five before him Oh, don't worry- this won't take long.
In a single day, you almost completed your objective! Oh The Empress was so happy to learn that you all had nearly succeeded before you even knew him!
The Speaker's face grew dark Elyse... lying to us... to The Empress... and to her people... I would execute her, if it were me. Unfortunately for 42, they are not prone to such violence- even with a traitor.
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Looking between humans, a flightless bird, and a prissy fairy that looked more like a snack than a functioning life form, Vasu turned back to Sealith, completely deadpan.
He had decided to ride on Sealith shoulder once they left the Inn. Once they got to the oak and his bluness the Voice he waited and then said
"That would be a real wast, you see, she is far more use to us alive at present."
Sealith looked at Vasu, her lips curling back in a not so nice manner.
Turning to Gogrin. "Vasu has stated she is coming with me."
"Really Sealith?, My I point out It's going to be hard enough sneaking around and finding things out here with out a befuddled looking, six foot tall owl, hooting by ones side. Not being rude but, Just how's it going to interrogate or intimidate locals if it, sorry SHE, only speaks its own language? Swark them into compliance? The work I will be doing, will take decorum, tact, stealth and subtlety. So if she is going to be with you, Then I'll be working on my own for most of the time."
Shakes his tinny head at the stupidity of the Birds request.
"I suggest the best place for her is with the troop training, she can mime her way past the language deficiency's she has, or get another to translate. Someone has to train and lead the flying divisions of our Army, who better than a Bird? humm."
Sealith turned and flicked the wing he was sitting on as she stretched it out throwing him off her shoulder.
"Well, now I know you are dishonorable and not into letting your own team members make their own choices. You know nothing about any of us yet you have already decided what we are good at. How do you know she can't do good in recruiting people or even intimidating people. You know nothing about her. If you can't even give your own team members a chance to show you what they can do then I say you can go buzz off and work alone. She made her choice and I WILL HONOR IT, unlike you! You, say your job requires stealth and subtlety Interrogation and intimidation. That does not win the hearts of the people. It only badgers them and builds fear and mistrust no matter how sweet you put it."
Her teeth were showing and her slitted eyes glared at him before turning from him dismissing him as she looked to Vasu.
Seems to move with amazing grace and fluidity, tumbling back in a multiple spin, while wiping off his had and landing on the bed side table in a bow with out missing a step. Something only an agile Fay could seem to do.
He says in a sad voice from his bow.
"O Sealith..., if I have offended please forgive, I had no ideas your feeling... ran so deep."
He straitens up and puts his tinny hat back on his head with a flurish and a smile. Then crossly he crossed his arms and turned his back and in a mock hurt voice says.
"But it should I who should take affront, Sweet Vasu, picking you over my fine-self. O the shame of it, how will I like it down."
He then unfolds his arms
"but I understand, the heart rules the mind so many times in life."
He bows his head as if in sadness and waves his hand dismissively, a a broken voice he says. As if barely able to contain his hurt feelings.
"But, I known when I am beat, if she chooses you over me, so be it."
Mockingly he wipes a nonexistent tear from his eye. He then looks back with a sly smile at the group an in one move turned back to face them, hands on hims, His voice normal, all joking gone.
To Vasu in Animal Bird speech.
"Your mate, So happy, you always with him now, his love much big now."
Then he takes off again.
"Now that being said, Sealith, Well done. I like it, a nice ploy, Taking my suggestions to the group and implying there where orders to our group, in a way to paint me as a despot. Then in the same breath seeking to isolate me by suggesting I had insulted all the others AND... to top it a move to push me out."
He dos a slow clap twice.
"Very well done, well done in deed , I am impressed, you know I think we may be able to work together after all. But, for now really spear me. We are a group with tasks to do, lets not use such skills we have on each other shall we sealith. To the rest I say, I will be clear, I have insulted no one, I have done no one any dishonor here. I have done nothing more than offer things to think on, nothing more nothing less than that. Its for each of you to act on my suggestions as you decide. I will offer meany more, some will not be foolish, some may be, only time will say."
He zips once more into the air at speed, He fly's around the group.
"Actions speak louder then words Dragon kin, you should know that batter then most. We fay have a saying about Honor, 'Its not the honor that you take with you, but the honor you leave behind that gets remembered.'"
Then heads once more over to the window and its view,
He chuckling to himself and once more looks out the window while looking at the group in the window glass reflection.