Nikolai's instincts take over as his fingers close around the pommel of his great sword. Restraint disappears inside the noisome rush of blood to his face. With a roar, the barbarian throws the silent figure backwards a few feet to give himself enough room to swing, the great blade sweeping out to the side and slicing into the assassin. The element of surprise fading, Nikolai adjusts his stance for purposeful combat.
The assassin shrieks in pain when Nikolai's sword connects. It is not a man's grunt of pain - his attempted assassin is, in fact, a woman. She lunged forward with surprising quickness, using her weapon to feint. Nikolai, in his rage, falls for the manuever easily, leaving himself open to attack. However, as she follows up, she nearly collapses and grabs her side in terrible pain. Nikolai nearly killed her in a single stroke, and she continues to bleed heavily from under her torn leather armor. She tries to bring herself up for another strike, but her quarry is ready for the attack and bats the claw away. The assassin looks in all directions, likely seeking an avenue of escape.
Ivahn Medyved leads a group of nobles and guards to bring Zander to the captain of Sanctuary's guard. When one of the nobles whines that they should just kill Zander, Ivahn steadfastedly refuses. What he lacks in friends or popularity in the nobility, he makes up for in honoring his word. He makes no threats towards Zander, though he says nothing at all to him.
They find Akiros having breakfast with Elspeth Surtova, apparently in the middle of a private conversation. Ivahn gestures for the others - even the guardsmen - to wait outside. Ivahn and Zander enter the room together, with Ivahn noticeably keeping Zander in front of him. He speaks in his typical accent - a backwoods accent common for his people but looked down upon by the nobility. "This man just arrived through the gates. He immediately threatened another by creating a terrible bestial face atop his helm. It looked as if from a nightmare with wicked teeth and red eyes."
Their bargain complete, Verik and Aylene head out of the Bank to make their way to the shore of the Lake. The weather could not be better for flight - blue skies, no clouds, and ample sun that makes the waves gleam like liquid gold. The daughter of the popular Maegar Varn, popular in her own right for her rapier tongue and incredible beauty, attracts a small crowd as she and Verik walk down the street. She makes a bawdy, unrepeatable joke to the crowd, causing Verik's ears and cheeks to turn a shade of crimson that he didn't know possible. Just as she gets to the tail end of the joke (which involves a tail end, to boot), Jemini Lebeda and Zander Orlovsky walk up to the crowd. The morning walks of the pair have grown quite common, and Verik had been doing his best until now to steer clear of them.
Maegar Varn would likely eat a full deer each day if available. His appetite (of the dining type, as well as other) is well-known to and frequently commented on by his men. Berrin enjoys the camaraderie greatly, reminding him of his time as a soldier for hire and the men he fought with. Of course, he now leads the troops instead of just being one of them. Morale in the army of Newhaven had never been higher.
Varn wipes his mouth with the back of his hand, having downed a full haunch of deer meat. He occasionally uses the hunk of meat to accent his gestures, even using it as a prop in a particularly bawdy joke. As everyone around him laughs riotously, he revels in the attention and brotherhood. When the laughs die down, he turns to Berrin for a personal conversation. "I never had a son. My wife, Pharasma rest her soul, only blessed me with one child - and Aylene has enough spirit for an entire brood of children. I want my girl to be with a man who will love and protect her, not treat her like a possession to be trotted out in parties. There aren't many who can do that for her, but I think that you are. You seem the type to produce me a grandson, too!"
"Berrin!" Jemini's delight is obvious at his visit, and the smile stays even when her brow furrows as he explains his presence. With a bit of an internal smirk she listens to him stammer through his love predicament, but then gives it earnest thought.
"The baron is a good man. His hold over Varn is carried by his popularity with all but the nobles of Brevoy. I think that is something to commend him by." Jemini explains then, that in her opinion, "Unlike the established Houses in Brevoy, he earnestly seeks to wed his daughter to a man he deems worthy - rather than use her as a pawn in schemes to promote his own agenda. ...not that there would not be benefits to closer ties with the neighbors... as I'm sure he's aware."
"Now the matter of Emma and Aylene... ah yes... there's the rub. I honestly don't know whether Aylene is even keen on finding a lasting relationship right now. She takes somewhat after her father in that regard, I think. Perhaps there's nothing for you to worry about at all in that sense. But Emma is a different story: you two have been making the gossip with regularity - and from what I've heard there's never been substantiated rumors of bad blood between you two. Perhaps you should seek her counsel in this directly? I cannot guess at her motives for pursuing your love - it may just be infatuation, or perhaps she loves you and hopes to secure a future for herself with you."
"Ah. hmmm... yes... you raise something that had fled my mind entirely," Jemini muses. "I think we should see to this directly. Speak with their chieftain and find out what they'd suggest. It is important that we find a suitable habitat for them where our and their lives do not interfere with each other too much - and perhaps we can find ways to integrate them into our nation more directly. Zander's scouts... there is indeed a thought. He'll be thrilled, I'm sure, but if they act essentially independently and report to him about their findings - that could yield fruits. As I understand it, their ways give them a different view of the land than we do. This is not a resource that should go to waste."
Jemini basks in the power of the morning sun. The rays are still soft and gentle, tentatively warming up her cheeks. Bless this day Sarenrae, carry it and the people of this nation - so that we may stand a proud and happy people.
After her prayers to Sarenrae, Iomedae and Irori, she enlists the aid of a servant and helps draw a hot bath for herself. Sometimes the best way to get the mind, body and spirit in harmony, is to let go of all other things and just sink into something hot and wet, she thinks as she sighs contentedly.
Nikolai
Verik's cheeks seem to burn, but he resists the urge to put his hands to them so as to prevent Aylene Varn from enjoying that degree of satisfaction. The cleric is caught between two conflicting principles, namely that he can neither support her awful bawdy joke as the dutiful and respectful Banker of Abadar, but at the same time nor can he be so rude as to admonish her in front of the townsfolk (again) or walk away from the noblewoman, no matter how egregious her efforts are to humiliate him. So he does the only decent thing possible, which is to frown and stare in a different direction.
Of course, that puts his stare directly at Jemini Lebeda and Zander Orlovksy approaching them from the open Market grounds nearer to the Castle. Just bloody wonderful. Should I turn next to find Berrin relating the Tale of the Tatzylwyrms from the doorway of Clovin the Tailor's shop? Why am I being subjected to the endless lessons of humility Master?
With a practiced air that sends his nose a bit higher than normal, he raises his voice amongst the raucous laughter of Aylene and the townsfolk at the conclusion of her foul jest. "Ahhh! Ha...erm yes well wasn't that most entertaining of you Lady Varn. Barn animals are a most amusing fascination with you it seems." Though displaying a smile that looks more like a grimace, his last comment clearly had more bite than he had intended. "Oh look there, the Lady Marshal Lebeda and young Lord Orlovsky are present. Lovely. Let us all pay our respects shall we?"
Despite the fact that many common Newhaveners have taken the River Freedoms to heart and have not automatically bowed and scraped to the Brevian nobility since their arrival, the announcement by Verik of the Lady Marshal is a different matter entirely. Nearly all seem to jerk their heads towards the pair, man and woman bowing and curtsying respectively, many bringing their caps and hats off in respect. Verik does the same, though at a level that is the minimum required for his office.
"Lady Marshal. Lord Orlovsky. A pleasure this fine morning. Unfortunately I cannot tarry, as I have a standing appointment with the Lady Varn here down by the lake...after which I must attend to a training session out at the militia grounds with General Berrin." Now why did I just tell them that! Stop puffing around you bloated fool! "I meant to say that I shall be bestowing blessings to the devoted men under training there that would make requests."
It has been weeks since the letter announcing his pending trial had been unsealed. Through his untrained political eye, Nikolai began to see a new world unveil itself - a world where spoiled bureaucrats and self-described nobles feinted with one side of their mouth and jabbed with another. The occasional ministrations of his friend Jemini helped him gain some rest, though tensions were still high and on the busiest days, he felt she should be left to rule rather than bothered for a rejuvenating prayer.
For years now, Nikolai had harbored a secret desire for quiet. The turmoil in his dreams, the chaos of conquest, and the carousing of those he seized or accepted into his small fold had created a constant noise in his life. With the onrush of the trial and the increasing attention from Brevoy, he felt that noise coming back. It tried to take him to a dark place. His first few nights were spent in seclusion, drinking and brooding about his hopeless fate. His self-hatred reached its bottom after one week, when his first bottle of foreign mead arrived. It was bitter and strong, and had an aftertaste that troubled him. He suspected poison, but Nikolai had been poisoned before. He poured the bottle into the woods early one morning, and when he returned to his quarters after making water, filled the bottle with local mead and attempted to see which hosts refused to drink of it. They all refused.
It be came quickly clear to him, the people who wanted him dead the least were the citizens of Sanctuary. Everyone who came from Brevoy expected his mead was poisoned or some accident would befall him one a hunt.
Something changed in him. He didn't find forgiveness for himself or hope that his life might be save - he cared nothing for himself save the end of the dreams. But his growing sense of justice was offended that Brevoy sought to use his guilt for their individual gain. He owed Jemini his life. He owed New Haven his sword (and some his life). He owed Brevoy nothing.
He vowed not to let them collect.
Now the assassin stumbled before him. The poison failed. The legal defense may win him enough time to hunt trolls and earn some small trust from the Founders. This would not be the end of it. The realization is dim through the practiced act of swinging his blade, but in a single moment he recognizes the opportunity before him. He turns the blade as he brings it down. What would have been another decapitating blow instead hits the head with a flat blade, the broad impact carrying her masked head all the way to the ground.
The sound of blood pumping through his ears, the need to finish the affront the way he'd dispatched so many. The anger that comes with the pain of his wounds. All demanded that he swing the sword one more time.
Instead, he saw Jemini as she spoke of her fate being tied to his, he imagined the sneers of the Brevic snobs as they announced they knew he was only an animal. He brings the sword down to the ground and leaves its broad blade planting out of the earth. As the blood subsides and the throbbing pain in his neck demands more attention, he stumbles to the door of his small quarters.
Guard! he shouts. Jemini! An assassin! He looks back inside and sees the still body. The Stag rises up in him. The insult. The audacity. The foolishness that one weak sword could ever be enough. Did they not know? He endured Choral. His flesh was scarred with dragonbile. He looked at his great blade, still trembling inside its earthen sheath. He looked back out into Sanctuary.
Hurry!
Uh. Sorry. The rolls up above should have been saved. I typed this and lost it while trying to craft the scene. The original roll should land me an unconscious assassin.
Akiros looks up with some annoyance as his private meal and special time with Elspeth is interrupted. That look quickly changes to one more of confusion as he sees who it is and hears the charges laid. At the same time, memories of the doppelganger troubles flash through his mind, causing him to involuntarily shiver for the briefest of moments.
Standing and coming to step in front of Elspeth, clearly protecting her, but also just as clearly including her in the proceedings by his not asking her to leave, he speaks, to both men, his feelings also evident in his tone.
"What is the meaning of this Zander, Ivahn? For I know neither of you are ones to make a joke of such a thing as this."
Then turning to woodsy noble "Ivahn, do you truly not know who this is?? This is Zander Whitestang, Warden of Newhaven and one of it's Founders. I know this man and he would never intentionally seek to terrorize one of our citizens."
Spellcraft:
Then to the Warden "Zander, what is this all about? Have you..." he then takes a closer look at the stag helm on the Warden's head "Zander, would you please remove your helm? While I am certainly no expert, of late my Goddess has given me some...certain insight into matters arcane. We should perhaps consult Verik on this matter, but I believe effect Ivahn has described could have been caused by some enchantment of your helm. Perhaps it would be safest to go without it, or at least without wearing it, until we can be sure."
Not expecting any further trouble between the two, the former samurai nevertheless takes nothing for chance and subtly places himself in a position to quickly intercede should any hostilities ensue.
Zander's hands go up to his headgear, "What about my helm? I have worn this plenty enough around this town for people not to mistake me for the Stag Lord. Visitors though, can be mistaken."
He lifts the helm off with enough care not to disturb the headband. He leaves enough faded scar tissue in his vision of his face to show he is no baby-faced nobleman. Ander carefully turns it over to view the white stag face. "They did call me a monster, but a Stag can be fierce but I do not understand the fear. Here." and Zander passes the helm over to Akiros. "You have perhaps had to stare at this more than anyone. Does it still carry the spirit of its late master? That is all I can think of?" He does not bring up the hag, waiting to see what other answers might be forthcoming, before venturing down that path....not wanting to think that it might somehow have control of him.
Zander does not believe in the Spirit of the Stag Lord, but is worried about something
Sense Motive:
Akiros glances at the Warden, sensing something is off about his words, but not quite sure what it is. He takes the the helm but shakes his head as he says "As I said, I am but beginning my understanding of the divine gifts Iomeade has bestowed upon me, let alone matters arcane. Let us take the helm to Verik. If you both are free, I ask you to come with me now while we get to the bottom of this."
Turning to Elspeth he says gently "My dear, please forgive the interruption, but duty calls. Perhaps we can meet for lunch?"
After waiting for her reply, Akios takes her hand, kissing it, and makes his exit. Upon leaving and seeing all the gumpy, nosy nobles looking for trouble anger quickly swells in him. Yet controlling his features as is his wont, his fury only shows in his eyes and his iron cold tone as he says "This man is Warden Zander Whitestag! A hero and Founder of Newhaven! You will all disperse immediately! And know that any man who draws blade against him unprovoked shall be considered a criminal and a traitor! Now go!"
Staring until the small crowd has dispersed he finally shakes his head and turns to his guardsmen, asking them if there has been any word on the High Cleric's whereabouts this day. If so, he heads towards the lake, if not, towards to Bank to inquire about him.
Jemini graciously accepts the attention of the turning heads, though she quietly prefers the nonchalance that had accompanied their morning ritual. "Verik! It is good to see you out in the fresh air so early in the day; and in the company of Lady Aylene of Varn no less." She embraces Aylene with a smile and introduces Zander Orlovsky - even though he most likely had been introduced to Verik and Aylene before.
With a little wink to Aylene she adds, "From what I hear, many a man's heart in NewHaven beats faster by the mention of your name, Lady Aylene, why even our Archbanker Verik here has taken to regular exercise. I hope you're planning to stay a long while still - you're always welcome here."
Verik resists the droll visible sigh and keeps his face locked in a grimacing smile. Ahh there we go let's talk about how Abadarians never go out-of-doors and become all flabby and worthless eh, how I love the endless jests at my weakness in front of the beautiful and noble. Just great... Though Verik does look in better shape physically and more hale than he has perhaps ever been, he generally regards the effectiveness of his unofficial training sessions and workout regimens strictly in the amount of sheer pain and discomfort he has afterwards. Taisper's morning regimens which Verik tries to never break twice a week are especially and woefully painful, which must mean they are doing something productive.
With a hand he shakes his head slightly in admonishment, but his tone is light and deferential. "No no just 'Banker' if you please Lady Marshal - I do not possess either the full harnessed power of the Master or the grandeur of a fully realized city to earn that auspicious title. Perhaps one day." Yes well plenty of time in these lands to be disgraced or die from our many enemies...or both...before that could ever happen
Verik defers to the response of Aylene Varn to Jemini as they exchange pleasantries, somewhat curious himself to hear of any stated plans and how she regards Jemini's open-ended invitation to stay. At some point, however, a more honest and earnest thought comes to him, and he looks up to catch Jemini's attention with a look that could convey such. With a slight clearing of his throat at the moment a decent change of conversation could take place, he says, "You know the other week Lady Marshal your counsel of that other rather trivial matter was most instructive and insightful, and I should like to seek your opinion on some new thoughts regarding it. Perhaps I may set an appointment with your office in the near future then?"
Laughing with the rest of them Berrin enjoys the meal and the company, it didn't get much better than this. When Maegar leans in to talk privately Berrin glances around and leans back in politely to listen.
Nodding at Meagar's words Berrin can't help but smile at the mention of children, Maegar had him right on the money with that one. Who didn't want a family and a home? Well, Berrin did.
"I must admit. You have me on that one. I'd at least give it a vigorous try." Berrin replies softly drawing a snort from Maegar.
But then Berrin grows solemn and start pouring his heart out, speaking his mind as he's been know to do and oft asked to refrain from, Berrin just doesn't know another way, being frank is what he does so all he can do is speak plainly.
"Alright, since we're being honest I'm gona level with you; I like you, your alright in my book. And I like your daughter, she's beautiful pure and simple. She catches my eye like any man's who's not blind or leaning toward other persuasions. Honestly what your offering me is the greatest honor any man has ever offered me, ever, and if I'd have had my say in Pharasma's plan when she sent my soul to this world I would want nothing more than to have had the privilege of being your son, and I would gladly accept the offer of being your son by marriage, but!... What about Emma?"
"What do I do about her? Offer her a cabin in the woods? Keep an apartment in Olegsgrav so's I can visit her when the fancy strikes me? No. I just ain't that kind of man Maegar, I'm sorry, I can't do it."
"Besides. You know as well as I do that she'll marry any one that she damn well pleases and frankly we've hardly spoken. Now, if, and I say if anything were to spark between the two of us well.. Well then I'd be more than happy to have her. But then I'd only be having her, if you get me."
Berrin sighs as he finishes, feeling that a load has been taken of his chest. "I don't mean to spurn you Maegar, I really don't. I mean it when I say I've never been offered a greater honor, I just ain't available."
Jemini grins back at the Abadarrian, and in a mock whisper, "You know it's just 'Jemini', right?" She nods at his last question though, more seriously, "Of course, I always welcome progress - and when it comes from the spiritual backbone of our nation, then even more so."
As Verik perceives Jemini has the jist of his reference, he settles into a less formal and dryer tone of banter. "Spiritual backbone eh? Well indeed many have tried to snap it but to no avail so far. Of course in these lands even incremental progress should be considered a marvel and a blessing!" He looks around behind her towards the Castle. "Where is your sister? Surely she would enjoy a bit of fresh air from the Castle or the Brevoy Manse on a morning such as this?"
"I can't rightfully say I know. I expect she's enjoying this pleasant morning every bit as much as we are," Jemini then adds to Verik's companion, "Lady Aylene, I trust you will be in most competent hands with our head Banker here this morning - but grant me this small favor, if you will: do not exhaust the man before midday, I still have need of him later."
The accusing voices fill the void in Nikolai's head.
There's still time. Kill her.
No one is coming. You will bleed to death before they come.
What are you hoping for? Salvation? The life of one assassin earns forgiveness for all those you took as irrelevant conqueror? Ha!
Nikolai hears laughing fey, sneering demons and snarling dragons. He crawls from his sparse shack, leaving bloody handprints on the walls and door, on the grass, on his breeches. Get away from the body. You can't kill her if you stay away from ger.
He kneels on the ground and fills his hands with bloody grass. Sobbing through the pain and the constant mocking of the voices, he shouts again.
Jemini cocks her head mid-thought. The spirits - all chaotic and streaming about. Something was wrong, but what?! She scans the street - nobody seems to be panicking, the guards mill about casually. "Verik, I'm getting a little worried. The... spirits... are restless."
Verik stood there enduring the jibes with a flinty stare and a scowl, shaking his head ever-so-slightly back and forth in disapproval. Considering his options to admonish the nobles for their lack of propriety upon his virtue, Verik is caught up short when Jemini's demeanor changes.
Her last words set off a guarded change in the Banker, who responds in his tone and stance as one who as been in danger with her before and trusts her instincts utterly. Verik's eyes widen and his left hand absently moves to his new wide belt where both mace and cudgel are displayed. He looks up to the Castle then, squinting in the morning sun to see if he can spy out the guards upon the battlements charged with watching the southwest approaches to town, answering her as he does so. "Zander was supposed to be back any day now with Gregary from the south. Do you feel that has something to do with it? I can see the guards on post from here and no bells have been rung of course. What is it?"
The castle's guards respond quickly to Nikolai's shouts. They find the hulking warrior standing over the motionless body of his would-be assassin, gripping a bleeding wound in his neck. The first one through the door hesitates for a moment, then drops his spear next to him as he rushes to aid Nikolai. "Get the Prefect! And alert the Founders!" He immediately starts to treat the wound, amid furious coughing fits from Nikolai.
One of Verik's acolytes whose name Nikolai hasn't bothered to learn, a mousy girl with light brown hair, arrives with another guard. Summoned to heal his wounds, she calls on Abadar to do just that. The bleeding stops as the wounds close, thanks to the healing magic of her god. She backs away as soon as the worst of it is healed. Fear and terror dance across her eyes as she tries to look at anything other than the former Stag Lord.
One of the guards removes the weapons from the assassin, who is clearly unconscious but alive. He kneels over her to bind her hands. With a flourish and almost hungry curiosity, the guardsman strips off the assassin's mask. The guards in the room express their shock in different ways - one stares, another curses, and a third gasps. No one expected to see Esmerelda Ludovan underneath the mask. She is a known and popular figure with the guards, who enjoy the presence of Berrin's paramour.
Aylene Varn seems to enjoy torturing Verik in tandem with Jemini. "It's not his backbone that I am interested in. I cannot guarantee that he will be in any condition to satisfy your needs, Lady Jemini. I am known to leave a man fatigued after I get what I want." She laughs, clearly enjoying his discomfort. She does seem genuinely excited to the magic of flight. For all her teasing bluster, she cannot hide her excitement at the prospect of soaring in the clouds. While she would like everyone to believe that she is jaded and cynical, Aylene clearly wants the joy of the experience.
A guardsman runs up to the group of nobles soon after Jemini realizes that something is going on. Out of breath from a near-sprint all the way from the castle, he lets out a report through ragged breaths. "Assassin in the castle.... Attacked Nikolai Rogarvia... Failed."
Zander Orlovsky turns to Jemini, a tenderness to his face that Verik burns to see (even amid this crisis). "Go. I'll ensure that Lady Aylene makes it back safely." Aylene protests, clearly finding having to go back to safety a boring and stifling prospect.
Whatever the cause of the horror, Akiros couching for Zander's identity seems to satisfy Ivahn Medyved. He and Akiros seem to have an understanding, having dealt with each other a few times. Ivahn has taken his duty as a guest to heart, preventing unsanctioned duels on a number of occasions. The similarities between the pair make them appreciate the same in the other. Ivahn thanks him and excuses himself, off to explain things to the other nobles and to ensure that anyone who attacks Zander for the incident has to answer to him as well.
Before Akiros can get back to his breakfast, one of his guardsmen arrives without announcement. "Prefect, sir! There's been an attempt on Nikolai Rogarvia's life! Come quickly!"
Maegar Varn looks disappointed, but seems to understand. "Never say never. Maybe you'll lose an arm in battle, and your Varisian will take that as an omen. You know how fickle they are." He laughs and tells Berrin a story of one of his experiences with a Varisian woman. The story soon has him and the other men in tears, thanks to Maegar's faithful pantomime of the events of the story.
A guardsman comes up to Berrin and waits politely for a moment. When the General looks over, he leans in to whisper a private message. "Sir, someone's tried to have Nikolai Rogarvia assassinated. I don't know if he's alive or dead now. We've alerted the Prefect and the other Founders."
Maegar's words obviously strike a cord in Berrin, coming to close for comfort to Berrin's own train of thought. Emma was fickle, Berrin couldn't honestly say that he knew for certain where she stood regarding the two of them. About to answer Maegar he is interrupted by his tale and soon looses himself in laughter.
Still wiping the tears form his eyes when the guardsman arrives Berrin's face goes stony as he receives his message. 'S@~!.' is the first thing that comes to his mind. 'Now what? Ok, we've got plans for this.'
Taking a moment to gather his thoughts Berrin stands up, letting the chair fall behind him. "Captain Steffan!" he bellows over over the din of the mesh hall. "Mobilize the army! Black Rabbit, I repeat Black Rabbit! This is not a drill!" Berrin's words freeze the mess hall in place as his message sinks in and then suddenly explodes in a fury of motion as the captain and sergeants start bellowing orders and the men rush to form into their units to head out into the city. 'Black Rabbit, Assassin in the city.'
Berrin's command would set in place a plan made for just such an event, men would rush to bolster Akiros's guards at every major point in the city and place themselves under their command, this was the city, Akiros's command, the patrols and the palace guards would be most importantly be bolstered and with enough reserve to quickly bolster any point with short notice, runners would take up positions to quickly pass messages but most of all, the palace would be locked down.
Turning back to Maegar who's sat quietly and watched a tactic he's never seen before unfold now watches Berrin with a look of suspicion on his face. "There's been an attempt on Nikolai Rogarvia's life. I'd like you to come with me to the palace if you would Maegar. Arming yourself might be a good idea, and bring some guards." Seeing the puzzled look on Maegars face Berrin explains. "I trust you Maegar, implicitly. We've been training as allies for weeks now, now is the time we may need you. Sorry if it's sooner than expected but I'd appreciate if you'd place your men under my captains orders and come with me to the palace and see what the hell's going on."
Turning to the messenger before Maegar can answer he asks; "Has the assassin been captured? Is their numbers known?" and sets of to find Valnyr.
With - what she hopes is - an apologetic nod to Aylene, Jemini is off on a sprint, as soon as she hears the reassurance from Zander Orlovsky. She hears the footfall of Verik behind her; he might object to the physical training that he's been forcing himself through - but the results are undeniable.
She reaches the castle to find it already thick with activity - like an ant's nest that has been stirred up a lot of movement was happening, not all of which was sensible or even meaningful. She makes her way towards Nikolai's quarters quickly, seeing the massive man wounded but cared for she breathes a sigh of relief, "Nikolai! What happened, what-" her eyes grow large with shock as she recognizes the would-be assassin; as if her body acted in two independent states she both stammers an unbelieving "Emma?" and her eyes glow up with the ability to sense darkness in others.
Looking around the disheveled and now-cramped living quarters of the scion of Rogvaria, he sees Anya and gives her a reassuring nod but holds up his hand to stay where she is. From a distance he looks critically at the wounds of the hulking man, though Jemini's words snap his gaze to the assassin on the floor surrounded by guards. "The Varisian? Oh $%^#&$! balls!" His profanity is very un-Banker like as he sees she is correct, and adds incredulously, "He left her alive?"
Verik channels his power then to further heal Nikolai from a distance, but excludes the Varisian, giving an order to his clerk before stepping outside. "Anya, heal the woman if necessary to keep her alive, but make sure the guards have her firmly secured beforehand, as she may have poison hidden. Berrin must be on his way, and I will intercept him first." With a knowing look to Jemini he leaves the chamber, placing himself down the hallway intersection at the top of the stairs with two guards, waiting for Berrin to arrive.
Zander turns to Arikos, "Whatever these people may think, I had nothing to do with this." He takes the helm out of the Captains hands and puts it back on. "Seems scared peasants can wait. Lead on!"
Pathetic sobs fill the spaces between shouts and murmurs as Nikolai sits outside on his knees. When Jemini reaches out to lay hands on him, he grips her arm fiercely and dodges backwards, before he realizes her intentions. He then slumps against her weakly, his heaving breaths threatening to push her off balance.
I didn't kill her.. he says over and over. I didn't kill her. I didn't kill her. I didn't kill her.
When he is surrounded by guards and the healing power invoked by Verik. He neither cries nor moves. He simply sits with slumped shoulders. He appears to be ignoring everyone around him - nearly comatose with angst. In reality, he listens carefully. He is beginning to understand the shape of things to come.
Akiros hands the Staghelm over to Zander without a word, simply nodding as before he hurries to follow the guardsman messenger.
Having had much less far to go, Akiros and Zander are among the first to arrive, and thus are already there when Jemini and Verik arrive. The Prefect's first order of business had been to send out orders to secure first the Castle, and then the town proper. Using what Guardsmen and soldiers were available. Having discussed and agreed on emergency stratagem with the General, Akiros knew that the 'Black Rabbit' protocols would be induced and he made sure his part of it was completed exactly as planned.
However, despite all his precautions, upon seeing the identity of the assassin, and especially after his recent conversation with Elspeth, the former Ronin suspected that the assassination attempt was more of a private affair. With that thought in mind, he dispatched orders for three of his most competent yet subtle guards to find and keep a close but unobtrusive eye on Alexey Surtova. They were not to approach him unless he tried to leave the city, whereupon they were ordered to escort him to the Castle, placing him under arrest if he resisted.
When Jemini and Verik arrive, Akiros stands from examining the unconscious woman. His visage grave, concerned and angry he speaks quietly to the Paladin "I believe this even more serious and deep a matter than it appears. I have reason to believe that Alexey Surtova may be involved in this assassination attempt. However the matter is a very...sensitive and important one to me personally as the witness in this case is someone very...important to me." and without saying any more, Akiros gives a significant look to the beautiful woman before him.
Putting a hand to her shoulder, he says "I must speak with Berrin as well before he comes in here." and he moves outside the room to join Verik in intercepting the General in the hall.
Jemini quickly approaches Nikolai. The big man echoed the fallen man that he was when the two of them were on the fields of Abaddon. What suffering is going through his mind, what has happened?
Her right hand shimmers in the air as she reaches out to his face. Gently she strokes his cheek - the magic of her touch carries cleansing power and invigorates. Hopefully it can soothe his spirit a little.
"Nikolai. Nikolai! Speak to me... what happened here?"
Berrin arrives at the palace riding Valnyr in full battle regalia followed by Maegar Varn and four men from each's army riding as guards. Coming into the courtyard Berrin slides off the horse with practiced ease and drops the reins, striding toward the castle knowing that those with him would follow. Aware of the cautious stares from nervous guards he's nevertheless sure that they'll do they're duty and man they're posts. Stopping at the door he sends a guard off to inform the palace captain that Black Rabbit is in effect and reinforcements are pending.
Rushing through the doors Berrin makes his way down the winding corridors towards Nikolai's quarters with his retinue on his heels. Meeting Verik and Akiros in the hall Berrin stops before them. "Black Rabbit is in effect." he informs. "The army is mobilizing."
"How is Nikolai? Did the assassin get away? Do we have they're numbers?" he stares both men in the face, all business.
"An excellent job General," answers Verik calmly, his expression guarded and somewhat cautious. "From what little I have seen of it, Akiros has both the Castle and the site of the attack here well secured - no doubt your coordinated plans are showing their potency. Prefect-Marshal Ismort, of course, is in command of this situation."
With a look to Akiros at his side, Verik looks back to Berrin and then to Lord Varn and the eight men in their combined entourage. He clears his throat and speaks firmly, but softens his tone to one who addresses a friend. "Nikolai is wounded but alive, the failed assassin unconscious but also captured alive. We know of only the one. Jemini is with them now along with many guards to handle it." He takes a step forward then, his voice lower and more urgent. "Other news we have but should be spoken privately. It cannot wait, but the men should not be privy to it, though it is not my place to direct the Lord Varn unless you do so." Verik directs a hand to the open door of a small breakfast study in the nearby corridor.
Jemini's divination turns up nothing untoward about Esmerelda's alignment. She may be magically concealing it and a greater actress than anyone could have realized, or she is decidedly not evil. Should it be the latter, she will have quite a bit of explanation due when she returns to consciousness. Anya heals the worst of her wounds to save her from a slow and painful death, but leaves her unconscious while the guardsmen tie her up.
The combined armies of Varnhold and Newhaven complement the city guardsmen without much problem. The citizens might complain a bit tomorrow of them making it difficult to get around the castle, but they are decidedly better-prepared and better-organized than they were during Malgorzata's reign of terror. Even Varn's men hustle to help in whatever way they can. Within minutes, all the walls and doors of the castle are manned and sealed, and each of the prominent citizens has a guardsman check up on them.
Taisper receives a knock on the door as he stares at the package. Slowly, perhaps expecting someone to take them away or offer even more, he opens to see several guardsmen in front of them. From behind the door, his hand grips around the hilt of his morningstar, unsure of their intentions. They salute, however, and explain the assassination attempt to him as well as their orders to keep him safe.
Upon his arrival, Kesten gives an odd look to Nikolai's strange response to the attempt on his life. He takes in the news of Surtova's involvement from Jemini and Zander in stride, seemingly unsurprised. "That's how House Surtova gains power - buy what they can, kill the rest. I can file a formal grievance to the House, but you know as well as I do that he can simply demand his right as a member of the nobility and the Swordpact - a duel against a champion of the accuser. We can seize him under our law and declare that he cannot invoke the Swordpact, but doing so will alienate the rest of the nobility. He may not be a formal sworn Aldori, but the Swordpact still holds strong on its heirs. We cannot afford to discount the fallout from this."
In the side study, Jhod arrives with Berrin, Akiros, and Verik. Verik seems to be doing his best to meld into a bookshelf while Berrin sits in silence. Akiros deals with one of his guardsmen that comes in with a question. He and Verik whisper softly to each other for a brief moment as Verik explains what happened. His face falls and he sits next to Berrin, a hand of comfort on his shoulder.
Clearing his throat, plainly uncomfortable with the news they've just shared with Berrin, but also just as clearly furious Akiros does his best to ease the effect of the news on his friend.
"I had been meaning to speak to you of this Berrin, but I just myself found out a few minutes ago." Looking around the room he eyes each of the men present firmly, letting them know the seriousness to him of his next words "I know I can trust the discretion of all of you here present, but I also caution you to be aware of all the possible implications involved. It is Elspeth herself who brought the news to me, and who was a witness to Alexey's interaction with Esmerelda. While it was clear to her that her brother was trying to force Esmeralda into some form of agreement, she could not hear all that was said. It had been my first thought that he was hatching some plot directly against you Berrin, but it seems his plans were even more complicated and grand than simple personal interest or revenge. Although his striking a blow at Nikolai like this is of course also a blow at you."
Moving around to stand directly in front of Berrin, Akiros seems his most uncomfortable yet, but also very much his determined and steely self. At this moment, it is more the Prefect Marshall who faces Berrin than his friend and companion in arms. "Berrin, you know that I trust you implicitly. Yet if there is ever to be a trial for all those guilty in this matter, I must be able to state truthfully that I, in my position and responsibility as Marshall, did ask all that must be asked. So I ask you now, did you, at any point in time, have any awareness whatsoever of Esmerelda's plans to assassinate Nikolai, or any awareness that she was in possession of the skills and tools to enable her to carry out such a task?"
With a look to Akiros and then Jhod, he uncomfortably clears his throat and speaks before Akiros' question is answered, both of his hands raised in mild protest. "A moment Akiros if you please. Let us serve two purposes, so that we do not have to subject him to this twice."
He turns to Berrin and says, "Berrin, you cannot see her, not now at any rate. No good will come of it. I have one power of the Truthtelling granted by the Master this day, but I cannot compel her to speak if she does not wish to, only not to lie to us if she does. Berrin forgive me, but it may be best if you yourself submit to the Truthtelling under witness of Akiros and myself here...and Jemini and Zander and Taisper as well, today, so that the act can be used to clearly refute any foreknowledge of this attempt on your part." Verik says his last words with a rush, gritting his teeth as if the words themselves caused him discomfort.
Akiros frowns slightly at Verik as the banker, as always, attempts to include himself, and his God, in every and any goings on. Not three breaths ago he had clearly indicated that Akiros was in charge of this situation, but now here he was indicating that his 'Truthtelling' was needed to settle things satisfactorily, as far as Berrin's involvement anyway.
Akiros was very new to the world of divine gifts, and, for the most part, still thought much more like a warrior than some oracle of the Gods. Thus, to his way of thinking, Berrin's word should be more than enough. But everything was so damn complicated with all these thrice damned nobles about, so, despite himself, he kept his peace and waited for the General's response.
Berrin sits stunned in the study at the news of Emmas involvement after having gone through several stages of thought. Fist came dibelief, this was a joke, albeit a cruel one, but the look on his friends faces convinced him otherwise. Then came denial, there had to be soemsort of mistake, Emma couldn't do this! She wouldn't do this, not to him, '..not to me.' But here they were, in a study with Nikolai recovering and Emma in chains in the next room over.
Then came rage, Berrin sputtered and cursed, claimed Alexey's life forfeit and promising to end it himself but that ended in a thumped fist against the wall so now he just sits quietly reminicing.
Meeting Akiros's eye the marshall can see only resignation in Berrin's eyes, be as be, come what may. "No Akiros, I had no clue. I mean sure, we didn't have the most close knit relationship, it was mostly just fun and games and... oh god... and gossip. Blast it Berrin, how could I be so stupid! Alexey's pawn? In my bed no less." Berrin's words flee him and he lapses back into silence.
Turning to Verik when it's his turn Berrin just nods his head. "Sure Verik. Whatever you say."
Verik nods and turns to the door, but stops before taking a full step. The old Verik from last year would have ticked off the next step in his duty to go inform the other Founders of Berrin's decision on the Truthtelling and the necessary details, not really considering the gravity of loss or hurt from one he called his friend. The new Verik, however, did not want to be so inadvertently callous. Berrin had changed, had surprised him in his handling of this terrible news, so Verik should do no less.
What to say? That it will be alright? That he is completely blameless, even if unwittingly so? I cannot lie, but he doesn't need a lecture either. Hmmm... Verik turns back and abruptly takes a seat next to Berrin on the opposite side of Jhod, putting a hand briefly on his shoulder in a show of support. He sits there for a moment, looking down at the floor, slightly wringing his hands as he speaks. "You are far from the first man to fall for such charms Berrin. I remember when she came to you after that calamitous trip up at Stagfall, how you were then and what you expressed to me at the inn up at Olegsgrav. I know this is small consolation to you, but you have handled this dreadful news very well - the man I knew last year would have flown off in some brash rage and made matters far worse. I commend you, my friend, even though I know that offers you little comfort right now."
He sighs then and shakes his head a little, seemingly at a loss for more words.
Zander is surprised as everyone by the revelation of Ezmeralda. Seeing both Akiros and Berrin move off for what must be very uncomfortable questions, Zander turns to a few of the guardsmen that have collected in the hall. "See that guards are stationed at Berrin's chambers and whatever Ezmeralda may have used as private chambers or find out if she has a house in town. No one is to enter them until they can be searched, once this is cleared up."
Jemini instructs the guards at hand: "Make sure to look after Em-- ...the assassin carefully. We will need to investigate; there may be another case of identity theft, or worse still magical compulsion at work here." Then she returns her attention to Nikolai in the hope that he will slowly recover his wits.
Wordless for long moments, the man who had been the Stag Lord turns his head slightly. The gravity of the moment is reflected in his low voice, and his injured neck twists his words into a harsh whisper.
You know her? She is from Brevoy?
In Nikolai's room, the guardsmen tie the assassin - Esmerelda, as difficult as it is to fathom for those who looked upon her favorably for the happiness she brought Berrin - with rope and search her thoroughly for more weapons. They even search her mouth for hidden caches of poison, a common enough escape mechanism for many assassins, checking for false teeth and hidden resevoirs. Declaring her safe, they back up and away to give the others privacy. She stirs in her sleep, not quite healed from the thorough injuries that Nikolai delivered. Jemini's healing hands should draw her back to full consciousness, giving them an opportunity to ask her many burning questions.
In the study, a guardsman knocks on the door. He bows to the Founders inside, keeping his eyes entirely on Akiros and avoiding Berrin rather obviously. "Sirs, they are preparing to wake her."
His eyes never having left the General's, his gaze as Marshal is still stern and firm. Never having for a moment expected any different answer, Akiros nods and replies "And that is a good enough for me. And it should be a good enough answer for anyone" he adds, shooting a meaningful glance at Verik [b]"Your word has never been in question Berrin and you have proved your loyalty and valor to Newhaven countless times over. But as you know, these questions had to be asked.
Then, his gaze and tone softening, it is as a friend that Akiros speaks his next words, once again placing a hand on the distraught man's shoulder [b]"If anyone should know the miraculous ability of the heart to be healed my friend, it would be me. So take heart when I remind you, the Gods are not unkind, and so where one door closes, another window may be opened. Although it may not seem so now, this turn of events may end up being a great boon to you indeed." and he locks gaze with Berrin until he feels the man has understood the full scope of his meaning.
It is at that moment that the guard walks in. Once again on duty, Marshal Prefect Akiros answers the man. Fully in control of the situation he speaks with authority "Good. We will be there shortly. See that she is not awoken until we arrive. You are dismissed Guardsman."
Once the guardsman has left, hand on the doorknob, Akiros turns to Berrin once more [b]"It may be best if you do not join us Berrin, but I leave it to your best Judgement. I am sure that you also understand that I must ask you not leave the premises until further notice. You are not under any suspicion, at least not from me, but appearances and propriety must be kept." And with a last nod of respect Akiros heads into the other room.
When all who wish to be present, he nods to the guards, ordering them to wake the prisoner.
Taisper looks with bemusement at the guards. He glances pointedly at the crossbow trap and a couple other barely-visible tripwires the guards are about to hit. Once their attention is drawn to the threats, they grimace and step back. "I appreciate you're doing your jobs, but I feel okay out here. Reckon you fellas are in more danger than I am, at the moment." He gives them a lopsided smile. "Why'n't you all wait up the road just a piece, I need a second to gather my belongings and I'll catch up. No hurry."
As the guards back off from the porch of Taisper's creepy and creaking old cabin, one of them mutters under his breath "Fine by me. I hate this gods-forsaken place. Bad luck to be out here." It was only in the last month or so that any of the guards were made aware of the cabin's existence -- which was troubling -- and even that was done at the behest of some new regulations put into place by the cousins Taisper and Verik, working to implement some Abadarian-churchy-order thing about transparency and access and safety. In the end, it meant on certain rare occasions some poor bastards had to come out to this unpleasant, dangerous, haunted, humid, buggy and disgusting swamp, usually for some business or other with Founder Stozs, when before they had been able to leave the swamp well enough alone.
The inquisitor takes a few more moments in contemplation of his new gifts from the Master. Clearly these would require further thought and meditation. He understands his path, and he believes he understands the threat. Time will tell. For now, he puts on the sandals, taking a moment to wiggle his toes in them and smile to himself. Then after getting on a fresh shirt and wriggling into his armor he puts on the gloves, using their magic power to stow his morningstar, practicing the flick of the wrist necessary to free the weapon. It works brilliantly, his smile widens.
Eventually, after making sure his usual mild, feature-blurring disguise is in place, he leaves, resetting his traps, and meets up with the guards who are by now a little ways up the path, almost all the way to the main road. He asks for what information they have (or are allowed to tell him) and listens carefully when they recount what they know. At the mention of Berrin's Emma, Taisper frowns but says nothing.
Another outsider. It's time.
When they reach the town, Taisper does not rush to the scene, nor to where the prisoner is held captive. Instead he finds a functionary in the main hall and asks. "The deputation from Brevoy. Where are they staying?"
Berrin rouses himself from staring into space and watches Akiros leave the room with a look of a lost man. Staring at the door Berrin's features change from lost to stony and he detaches himself from the wall he was leaning agains to follow Akiros. Proproety be damned, Berrin thinks, feeling anger well up inside him, she betrayed him. She was his puttet all along, everything they had was a lie, a game. Berrin was a job.
With a look of determined anger Berrin crosses the hall and into Nikolai's chambers, looking everyone defiantly in the face, daring them to say anything.
Jemini nods, "I don't know her well - but I know she's been staying here for a while; as the mistress of Berrin. ...Berrin..." she groans inwardly, "he'll have a hard time now. I hope Verik has the common sense to handle this delicately."
Verik sits there as Berrin gets up and walks out, mulling over the words of Akiros. One door closed but a window open...ending up a great boon...what cryptic nonsense is that?
He sighs and then looks to Jhod and nods his head in the direction of the door. "Perhaps I spoke too soon about him taking this better than expected. Ahh well I suppose we should go as well and ensure things do not get even more out-of-hand then they are. I don't suspect the Varisian will submit to truthful questioning, but the day seemingly has no end to strange developments." He rises and prepares to join the others.