Monday let's hear head freefall into the table. "Tal is fully committed. TO HIS WIFE. The reason Jani sought him out was because she knew he wanted to keep Lily safe. No Lily, No Tal. Why are you morons being such dingbats about this? YOu don't even what, if anything, she is capable of. Does that mean she contributes less than the artists and merchants in the other room?"
"Tal is fully committed. TO HIS WIFE. The reason Jani sought him out was because she knew he wanted to keep Lily safe. No Lily, No Tal. Why are you morons being such dingbats about this?
The concept of familial affection seems to be entirely lost on Naberius. He shakes his head and sighs, "Yes, more childish insults. How lovely. If Tal insists on keeping her here, so be it. That is his decision."
"YOu don't even what, if anything, she is capable of. Does that mean she contributes less than the artists and merchants in the other room?"
Naberius nods in agreement, and says, "Tal refused to answer when I inquired what his wife might contribute to our group, so I am forced to assume she has no useful talents. I await to be proven wrong. Until then, I see no reason she should know more than necessary. That should apply to the other peasants, as well. Why are you people so insistent on taking unnecessary risks?"
The conjurer shakes his head in disbelief.
Letting out a sigh with her face still on the table Monday says, "Maybe Tal and Lily and everyone else would be more open if you weren't complete dicks to them and treated them like people, they're not your pawns and your not their king. You're not even a leader."
Letting out another sigh she turns her head to look at Naberius before adding, "You know what, you're just always grumpy, maybe you just need a hug?"
Tuez!
As if on cue the phantom puts his arms stiffly out at the elbow like a child's toy bear before marching over and picking up the wizard in a tight bear hug.
Shaking his head in frustration, Naberius tries to explain, "You completely misunderstand me. I have done my very best to remain civi–"
Seeing Tuesday lurch foward, Naberius jumps up from his chair and retreats away from the phantom. He hisses, "No! Keep that monster away from me, or I will do it myself..."
His mind instinctively reaches out, tugging at the string of spiritual energy connecting an extraplanar entity to its summoner.
Feeling an intrusion upon her and Tuesday's connection and also getting a rise out of Naberius finally Monday gives the wizard a smile. "Would you rather I hug you then?"
Pausing at the door when he hears Areal speak up Tal sees the effect this is having on him. Looking at the leader of this group weeping on the table Tal lowers his head and speaks softly. I knew the Hammersmiths. They were good people and always ready to help a person in need. They did not deserve what happened to them anymore than countless others that have suffered at the Bastards hands. I would love to repay them for the atrocities that they have committed to the people of Westcrown. Yet I can not stay when my motives are being questioned when those that are questioning them refuse to be honest themselves.
Looking at Naberius while still speaking quietly. The anger is gone and all that is left is a sort of pity that he can not make you understand, You asked what Lily can bring, she brings me. she brings me a hope of a better life and the hope that I can be a better man, for her. She brings the tenderness needed to repair a broken man at night when I see what happens in the street even though the nobility ignores it. She brings warmth and compassion to make the long nights bearable when I wish to be out at night. She brings this and more but I have come to realize that you do not understand such sentiments. You long for black and white and the certainty that your learning has given you. You expect that those who are not as smart as you should automatically align with your wishes.
Think on this though. Last night you were ready to trust me to defend all of you against goblin, skeleton, and zombie. You let me take the front as I put myself in harms way as you relaxed in the back safe. I even asked you to use that stick of yours to help and you seemed put out that I should even ask that of you. You trusted me then and you trusted me this morning. Why do you not trust me now when I know my wife. Why not trust her like you do the rest of us whom you have only met for less than a day? Why trust her less than Raveen who purposely deceived you last night by hiding his identity? Is it because as Raveen says she has not bled for the group even though you have yet to shed blood for us? All I asked was that she be present to hear what is happening and that was too unacceptable for you.
Almost as a parting shot, I hope that the others can find out the real reason you are here as you have not told me.
Turning from Naberius whom Tal has pity for to Raveen which all Tal can feel is disgust at the moment. You act like the leader of this group but it seems that Mera and Monday both do not feel this way. You hide behind your multiple identities so people do not know who you really are. I am beginning to suspect that you don't even know who you truly are deep down so consumed are you by lies and deception. I have been nothing but truthful with you even if I did not trust you at first. Yet when I give you the truth you try to twist it and slam it back against me. ?I hope you find yourself and the truth of who you are before your actions get you stuck with a knife in the back.
Looking at Monday, Do not waste any more effort in trying to change their minds on my account. They do not understand what you and I both know. There are bonds that tie 2 individuals tighter than spilt blood. You understand what I mean, glancing at Tuesday. I hope that you and Tuesday continue on for the better. I do not know exactly what you want out of life but I truly do hope that you find it and that it brings you happiness.
Lastly to Mera, I hope that this group does not bring you to harm. Smiling ruefully, If so then who would I guard for the next 6 months? Be careful that elaborate plans do not backfire or you may find yourself surrounded and no one willing to help you for the threat of breaking 'orders'. You know where to find me should you want your bodyguard during the day.
Walking out the door Tal lets it close quietly behind him. Once it does he leans up against the wall and sighs letting go of the emotion and stress that had built up inside.
Looking around for Lily he tells her what has transpired and could care less if there are others around to hear it as well. They are planning on going after the Bastards of Erebus. I say they as I seem to no longer be a part of the group. They did not wish me to tell you any of this and to let you be in the dark while I am off helping them. I told them under no such condition would I agree to that as you and I are together and trust each other completely. It still did not matter and when pushed further 2 of them indicated that I would be better off leaving. I am sorry for bringing you here and for my actions the last 24 hours. I hope only that we can go back to our normal life.
Giving the armored man a sad look she lets him say his piece before leaving to join his wife, at which point she turns to back to the wizard.
Feeling an intrusion upon her and Tuesday's connection and also getting a rise out of Naberius finally Monday gives the wizard a smile. "Would you rather I hug you then?"
Trying to regain his composure once more, Naberius answers, "I would rather you did not... And do not try anything like that again. Please."
The last word comes out a bit more shaky than the wizard had intended, but he brushes it off.
She brings this and more but I have come to realize that you do not understand such sentiments. You long for black and white and the certainty that your learning has given you. You expect that those who are not as smart as you should automatically align with your wishes.
Naberius listens in silence, his face expressionless.
I suppose he is right, in a way. Acadamae taught us there were no friends or family, only allies and enemies. Masters and servants. That is the way of the world...
Had he been so innocent once? So ignorant of the true nature of humanity? For the first time, Naberius notices how young Tal truly is. He feels an untangible sensation of... Pity? Envy?
Walking out the door Tal lets it close quietly behind him.
As Tal leaves, Naberius sits down and crosses his arms once more.
He remains silent.
Feeling an intrusion upon her and Tuesday's connection and also getting a rise out of Naberius finally Monday gives the wizard a smile. "Would you rather I hug you then?"Trying to regain his composure once more, Naberius answers, "I would rather you did not... And do not try anything like that again. Please."
The last word comes out a bit more shaky than the wizard had intended, but he brushes it off.
"Okay, since you asked nicely." Monday responds, a serene smile on her face. Seemingly content the expression immediately vanishes as a thought strikes her. "Wait, what do you have against me hugging you?"
Having riled the infernalist enough Tuesday's arms drop to his side and he adopts his usual languid movements as he drifts back over to Monday.
"You asked what Lily can bring, she brings me. she brings me a hope of a better life and the hope that I can be a better man, for her. She brings the tenderness needed to repair a broken man at night when I see what happens in the street even though the nobility ignores it.
She brings warmth and compassion to make the long nights bearable when I wish to be out at night. She brings this and more but I have come to realize that you do not understand such sentiments. You long for black and white and the certainty that your learning has given you. You expect that those who are not as smart as you should automatically align with your wishes."Think on this though. Last night you were ready to trust me to defend all of you against goblin, skeleton, and zombie. You let me take the front as I put myself in harms way as you relaxed in the back safe. I even asked you to use that stick of yours to help and you seemed put out that I should even ask that of you. You trusted me then and you trusted me this morning. Why do you not trust me now when I know my wife. Why not trust her like you do the rest of us whom you have only met for less than a day? Why trust her less than Raveen who purposely deceived you last night by hiding his identity? Is it because as Raveen says she has not bled for the group even though you have yet to shed blood for us? All I asked was that she be present to hear what is happening and that was too unacceptable for you."
The man said nothing, waiting for the wizard to speak for himself.
I hope that the others can find out the real reason you are here as you have not told me.
"I'm sure we can think of something," the man said thoughtfully. But then Tal turned to him.
"You act like the leader of this group but it seems that Mera and Monday both do not feel this way. You hide behind your multiple identities so people do not know who you really are. I am beginning to suspect that you don't even know who you truly are deep down so consumed are you by lies and deception.
"I have been nothing but truthful with you even if I did not trust you at first. Yet when I give you the truth you try to twist it and slam it back against me. ?I hope you find yourself and the truth of who you are before your actions get you stuck with a knife in the back.
Behind his mask, a frown marred his face.
"I hope that this group does not bring you to harm. Smiling ruefully, If so then who would I guard for the next 6 months? Be careful that elaborate plans do not backfire or you may find yourself surrounded and no one willing to help you for the threat of breaking 'orders'. "
"Surrounded? I hope not: I'll begin accounting for irresponsibility in our future missions," he whispered, observing the man as he head towards the door.
You know where to find me should you want your bodyguard during the day."
Walking out the door Tal lets it close quietly behind him. Once it does he leans up against the wall and sighs letting go of the emotion and stress that had built up inside.
The man remained by the open door until Tal left, locking the door behind him.
Before he left, the man heard all that Tal had to say, and only said in an amused whisper between them:
"You're taking this much too personally."
Again glancing to the younger man, he adds, "That exchange did not need to devolve into a barrage of verbal abuse and taunts, however. That was not my intention, and I certainly was not the instigator..."
"I know. It was what happened, however. Don't go soft on me, Naberius," said the man with half a smile in his voice as he returned to the wall--the first emotion so far beyond a vague regret. "This job is not for everyone and you know it. They say the metal of each weapon shows in battle: this is no different. If the revolution is to succeed, we must all play our parts, else this devolves into a cacophony that lands us all the rope."
Turning to Raveen and Naberius, "Had she been in on it from the beginning or had she been at the initial meeting yesterday it would have changed nothing. It is not like we are months into anything here, it has been a day and I find it a little much for this continued bickering to continue. We have our next objective before us, " she nods to Arael, "What's done is done, an argument is being made where it need not. Let's focus on what needs to be done here gentlemen.""I think it is better that his lack of commitment came out now, rather than at a crucial moment later on. He says he wants to defend this city and its people, yet he immediately proceeds to abandon us for the sake of one person. Yet he has the insolence to blame me for being selfish, and question my motives? Why am I being turned into the villain here? I only sought to advice caution. Your words do me an injustice, My Lady."
"We indeed asked for nothing beyond the level of confidentiality required by any client to his normal line of work," the man said slowly, turning to the distressed half-elf. "You are right: let us focus on what must be done."
As if on cue the phantom puts his arms stiffly out at the elbow like a child's toy bear before marching over and picking up the wizard in a tight bear hug.
At Naberius's fearful reaction, the image of his reaction to their last encounter with undead flashed before the man's eyes. Mentions of undead abominations and a hiss about the Hall of Whispers-
But before he could do anything, the wizard (he assumed) reached in and began pulling on a strange connection. Monday's reaction and Tuesday's apparent pause made the man tilt his head.
What happened just now?
What happened back then? he added, glancing at the wizard.
Feeling he missed something, the masked man instead turns to the priest again, and approaches, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. He was silent for a moment, hearing the man's soft weeps, and said, "Let's discuss this in a few minutes. I think we all need a breath of air."
Outside the Room
Ermolos, who had arrived at the hideout during the beginning stages of the discussion, sees Tal come over to Lily to say that they are leaving. Suddenly all in the room have looks of shock and sadness. Eemolos approaches Tal sheepishly and says, Master Tal, When my Da disappeared while adventuring, I decided I wanted nothing of the life and took up an honest trade as a blacksmith. I saw the people of this city get beat down and have no hope. I admit, I had no hope until I met Janiven-but what was I to do? I was not an adventurer, I was not skilled in swordwork. It seemed like this idea-this revolution was going to go no where until you and your companions came last night. You awoken in all of us a sense of purpose. Look at Vitti with his club, even though he did not take part in our training exercises, he was watching, and look what he did with his club? That armiger would have skewered him if he did not use the moves you taught us last night. Is there any way you can stay? All around him start nodding with Vitti making soft whimpering noises.
Inside the Room
"Let's discuss this in a few minutes. I think we all need a breath of air."
At this Arael looks up. Discuss what? Discuss nothing. We'll send for you in a few weeks while we search for a replacement for Tal. Unless you are willing to face tiefling warriors by yourself. Know this! Every drop of innocent blood spilled now until then is on all of you. The Half-Elf drops his head into his hands again.
Hold on here! I know Tal, it was I that recruited him, and I vouch for him. Janiven interjects. We need Tal, just as we need all of you. We are on the verge of creating something special here as Master Raveen's propaganda has been spreading this afternoon. If we don't continue on immediately, all the momentum we just started will come to a crashing halt. If I can convince Tal to come back, and if I speak with Lily. Will you trust my judgment? Will you let Tal come back if I can convince him? Janiven looks around the room looking for a reaction from everyone.
At this Arael looks up. Discuss what? Discuss nothing. We'll send for you in a few weeks while we search for a replacement for Tal. Unless you are willing to face tiefling warriors by yourself. Know this! Every drop of innocent blood spilled now until then is on all of you. The Half-Elf drops his head into his hands again.
Naberius glances at Arael in disgust.
What a pathetic excuse for an Iomedaean. Who in their right mind would follow this craven wretch into battle? No wonder he got captured...
He sneers, "I am ready and willing. I am not some superstitious peasant, covering at the sight of a pair of horns. I have seen real devils. Do you think these hellspawn scare me, priest?"
If I can convince Tal to come back, and if I speak with Lily. Will you trust my judgment? Will you let Tal come back if I can convince him?
Still half lost in thought, the wizard shrugs, saying, "I admit that Tal is a formidable warrior, and unusually honorable for a mercenary. Still, he is hardly irreplaceable. If you think you can convince him to compromise, please proceed. Perhaps his wife will be more reasonable. I have nothing against Tal continuing to work with us, but if he unwilling to meet us halfway, we can find some other hired sword to take his place..."
At Arael's reply Mera looks around the room and tries to judge the reaction from her partners. She says, "I will retrieve Tal, there will be no need to wait a few weeks. I shall return momentarily with my bodyguard."
I have seen real devils. Do you think these hellspawn scare me, priest?
Mera turns away from Naberius, unwanting to show that she is actually quite afraid of devils.
Gods, I hope there will be no devils...
Without waiting for replies from anyone she slips from the room and closes the door quietly behind her.
As Tal was gathering his things and getting Lily he was not prepared for the group to surround him and for Ermolos to give such an impassioned speech. Heart torn in 2 he turns to the young man to try and explain the situation to him. You humble me for lavishing such praise and I think you for that bit of uplifting confidence. Yet I am quite torn as to what to do. Last night I was looking for a job and instead found an ideal. That ideal sparked something in me just the same as it did for all of us. It was enough of a spark that we took action this morning and did something few would have dared and fewer would have succeeded in. I had hoped that the spark would grow till it would spread to others outside of this group. Yet for that to happen I need my wife Lily to understand and have that spark as well. There are those that do not wish it so and are quite vocal about it. I had made up my mind to leave you and wish you the best. There will be others that could replace me that are more to their liking and not willing to stand up for what they believe in. I accept that and was ready to dismiss them. But seeing you here gives me pause. Perhaps I can still be involved with you even if I can not be involved otherwise. I can still teach you more on how to protect yourselves and still be a threat to your opponent. I say this not because I want bloodshed but because it will keep you alive. I have not the energy nor the heart to give lessons today though. It will have to wait for another day.[b]
Looking at Vitti, [b]I didn't say this earlier but you did well this morning. Keep practicing what I told you last night and spar with one another. Pay attention to your footwork and your line of sight.
Not knowing what just happened but having been around her husband long enough Lily does not question Tal at the moment. There would be enough time later on the walk home or once they reached the privacy of their house. The walk would give Tal a chance to relax and clear his head before he had to relive whatever it was that just happened. She had a good idea that she was the cause of his pain in some way. Only those that you care for could elicit the reaction Tal was having. Placing her hadn on his shoulder she gives him a small squeeze in support.
"Let's discuss this in a few minutes. I think we all need a breath of air."Discuss what? Discuss nothing. We'll send for you in a few weeks while we search for a replacement for Tal. Unless you are willing to face tiefling warriors by yourself. Know this! Every drop of innocent blood spilled now until then is on all of you.
"There will be no need for this, Arael," the masked man said in a calming voice, squeezing the priest's shoulder a tad tightly, nodding at Naberius's retort and Mera's apparent reaction.
"None of us are frightened by it, and I don't believe any of us are willing to stand by and let innocent blood spill: not when we can avert it!"Hold on here! I know Tal, it was I that recruited him, and I vouch for him. Janiven interjects. We need Tal, just as we need all of you. We are on the verge of creating something special here as Master Raveen's propaganda has been spreading this afternoon. If we don't continue on immediately, all the momentum we just started will come to a crashing halt. If I can convince Tal to come back, and if I speak with Lily. Will you trust my judgment? Will you let Tal come back if I can convince him? Janiven looks around the room looking for a reaction from everyone.
"I will retrieve Tal, there will be no need to wait a few weeks. I shall return momentarily with my bodyguard."
"You are correct, Janiven: if we do not continue, we shall lose whatever ground we gained. For that, we shall continue on our propaganda--however, he said, pressing the word heavily. "The revolution should not stop at one's presence or lack of thereof, regardless of whom they might be," the masked man returned, gesturing with an open palm at his masked face (or any present mask in the room).
"When I don this and fight for Westcrown, I am not to be an individual for the people to wait and pray for, but an idea that does not die or waver--ideas that can be taken up by any who show the same spirit I show tonight.
"Truly, to stop now is to betray the heart and promise of the revolution," he said, "For so many people in this city are willing to speak their minds and act truly only when behind masks. That is what oppression does to you."
Recalling their private conversation, he glanced at Naberius and said, turning back to the priest and looking him in the eye, "Perhaps we betray even Lord Aroden's sacrifice: we should not wait to be delivered, and we should not wait for heroes who left us, or pray for salvation that will not come: We must make with what we have, and pray it is enough. If Tal is to leave, I will ask another to don the Wolf mask. If I die (for I will not leave), another will don the Fox. That is why I am masked: Westcrown's people is my face when I fight for her."
1: Is Arael well? (Check)
2: The Bastards of Erebus and how Arael ended up with Hellknights. (Check)
3: What is their relationship to one another.
4: The next mission.
5: Iconic: Masked & Cloaked, the symbolism, and the posters.
-a: The Avenging Chant
6: The Morale Stance.
6: The Financial Stance.
7: Expansion: Assessment for strike force, spy rings for information gathering and distribution.
Feeling that the conversation wasn't going anywhere until Mera or Tal returned Monday let's out a yawn before moving over to Naberius. "Normally I would just sit in your lap so I could rest, but seeing how you just acted I figured it might be best if I asked beforehand."
At Arael's reply Mera looks around the room and tries to judge the reaction from her partners. She says, "I will retrieve Tal, there will be no need to wait a few weeks. I shall return momentarily with my bodyguard."
Naberius nods absently, returning to his brooding.
Recalling their private conversation, he glanced at Naberius and said, turning back to the priest and looking him in the eye, "Perhaps we betray even Lord Aroden's sacrifice: we should not wait to be delivered, and we should not wait for heroes who left us, or pray for salvation that will not come: We must make with what we have, and pray it is enough."
The conjurer meets Raveen's gaze, and then glances venomously at Arael.
Words you should take to heart, false priest...
Feeling that the conversation wasn't going anywhere until Mera or Tal returned Monday let's out a yawn before moving over to Naberius. "Normally I would just sit in your lap so I could rest, but seeing how you just acted I figured it might be best if I asked beforehand."
Naberius gets up, and silently offers his seat in a gentlemanly fashion.
The surprise on Monday's face shows as she sees the wizard stand and offer her his seat instead of her expected image of him either scoffing or flailing. Arching an eyebrow she says "Oh? So do you want to sit in my lap instead?"
Still partially lost in introspection, Naberius stoically states, "I have been resting all day. I can stand, since you asked so politely..."
She waits for a break in the conversation and when Lily places her hand on his shoulder she seizes the moment. She turns to Ermolos and asks softly, "Ermolos, if you wouldn't mind excusing us for a moment I would have a word with the Mainz's."
She offers awarm pleasant smile and nods, "Thank you."
Once he has departed and the three are along together she turns to address both Tal and Lily together. "I shall speak to you both now, not just Tal. I know you have thought on leaving Tal and if that is your choice made in stone I shall not try to change it. I shall weave my words of my thoughts but I will not magically enhance them together to make you stay."
Mera laces her fingers together as she stands facing the pair. "We need you Tal and everyone wants you there. I have agreed with all of your spoken word and I am in full support of your request as I do not find it inappropriate. Janiven is the one who has brought us all together. She has offered to speak to Lily and make a decision on what she feels is appropriate. As she has judged our characters and brought us together, I have full confidence that she will find no fault in allowing Lily to be aware of our ideals."
Turning to face Tal slightly more than Lily she asks, "Will you allow them to speak and hear her words before setting off? I will find no fault in you if you choose not to do so, but I shall ask this favor to at least let this transpire as she has requested. If other choose not to listen to Janiven then it is them that should be leaving, not you. "
As Tal was talking to Ermolos he couldn't help but see that Mera had exited the room as well and was walking slowly towards him. He wasn't surprised that it would be her that would come out as she probably had the most hold on him being his employer. If Mera kept her part of the deal he wasn't sure how the next 6 months would go. He was a man of is word though and would remain her bodyguard till the time was up regardless of how unbearable it would be. It was only for the days though. He could fill those times with thoughts of Lily and what the new income could do for them. It would make it tolerable.
As Mera dismissed Ermolos with a polite smile Tal brought 2 chairs over for Lily and and Mera. He didn't feel like sitting at the moment even though he was mentally tired. Instead he stood behind Lily and rested his hands on the back of the chair. Tal noticed right away that Mera was directing her words to both Lily and Tal. That in and of itself spoke more to Tal than any of the words that Mera used.
He listened in silence till she was finished weighing her words against his thoughts and feelings. Thanks Mera for coming out here to talk. It says a lot about your character and the type of person you are. While I doubt that everyone in there wants me to stay, I can appreciate the sentiment you are giving. I know that I can be stubborn and mulish but I don't know what there is to compromise on. I want Lily to know what is going on. If I don't come home one night she will know where I went and why. It may be as simple as a task to paint signs was projected to take till evening and we needed to stay in for the night. Then she will not be worried that something has befallen me.
I will agree to wait till Janiven or Areal talk to Lily. Once that happens I will see how they feels and if they agree with me then I will gladly return to the group. Tal pauses in his speech and ou can see the knuckles on his hands turn white as he grips the chair back. However if Raveen pushes me once more or insults my feelings towards Lily I will walk away from the group but not before I make sure Raveen bleeds for the offense he made. then he can see if his blood binds us like he thinks.
Gently taking Naberius by the arm and tugging him back toward the seat she looks up at him through tired eyes. "It's okay, please, sit back down."
She purses her lips and thinks on her words carefully.
"With regards to Raveen..." Mera looks down at her lap and doesn't mean to, but she lets a sigh audibly pass. She blinks twice and regains her composure and says, "I will have a word with him. I know him no better than you I'm afraid, so I have no words of insight to offer. I do feel that you two are going to need to come to an understanding if we are going to be working together. In addition, I'd much prefer that you stayed in my presence instead of walking away from him for fear that I myself may be forced to be... unladylike."
She offers a meager smile and turns to Lily, "Now, with your leave I will go speak to Janiven and ask her to speak with you."
If granted leave she stands and begins to walk back to the room. Halfway back she turns around and adds, "Oh, and I'm sure it would never be so, but in the event that Lily needs some information and you are unable to get in touch with her I will make sure that the message is conveyed in some fashion."
She returns to her walk and re-enters the room.
She catches Raveen's comment and waits for a break in conversation. "Two things. But before I start with that, listen to my words very carefully. Tal is still here and he may consider rejoining our group, all is not lost. Considering what we have already gone through and what we have left to accomplish, time is of the essence. We do not have weeks of time to find and vet a replacement for him who may not even be as qualified. We have seen Tal's commitment to us twice already and I ask now you put your differences behind you and settle them at a more appropriate juncture."
To Janiven, "They have agreed to let you speak to Lily and make your judgement to all. They are seated outside and waiting for you. I would ask that you speak to them now as other matters of importance depend on this decision."
To Raveen, "It may not be now, but I would have you serve an apology to the man. Whether you value or understand family life or matters not to me, but you shall not do a disservice to another member of our group. While I prefer you are sincere in your apology, it was listed as a requirement of him rejoining us and so you shall make it happen whether you mean it or not." Anticipating a reaction she holds up her hand when to cut off any speech. "Before you begin to protest, think about what I spoke of first. We have within our reach the ability to put all of this behind us and continue on our mission to serve justice. Let us not get caught up in our personal matters and do what needs to be done."
"Two things. But before I start with that, listen to my words very carefully. Tal is still here and he may consider rejoining our group, all is not lost. Considering what we have already gone through and what we have left to accomplish, time is of the essence. We do not have weeks of time to find and vet a replacement for him who may not even be as qualified. We have seen Tal's commitment to us twice already and I ask now you put your differences behind you and settle them at a more appropriate juncture."
The man turned to her, lifting his hand from the priest's shoulder.
"They have agreed to let you speak to Lily and make your judgement to all. They are seated outside and waiting for you. I would ask that you speak to them now as other matters of importance depend on this decision."
"It may not be now, but I would have you serve an apology to the man. Whether you value or understand family life or matters not to me, but you shall not do a disservice to another member of our group. While I prefer you are sincere in your apology, it was listed as a requirement of him rejoining us and so you shall make it happen whether you mean it or not.
"Before you begin to protest, think about what I spoke of first. We have within our reach the ability to put all of this behind us and continue on our mission to serve justice. Let us not get caught up in our personal matters and do what needs to be done."
Of course. An apology, he thought mildly.
"I do not oppose the idea," he said smoothly, observing his gloved fingers. "As you said: we have not the luxury to let personal matters stand between us and justice."
He turned to Janiven and Arael, and said, "Let us meet Mrs. Mainz, then. We have much to discuss."
Gently taking Naberius by the arm and tugging him back toward the seat she looks up at him through tired eyes. "It's okay, please, sit back down."
Shivering slightly as he is touched, Naberius nevertheless sits back down. He avoids Monday's gaze.
Mera re-enters the room several minutes after exiting. She immediately puts herself in a position and authority, speaking as if she commands the room and demands its attention.
Naberius looks approvingly as Mera takes control of the situation. He remains aloof, waiting for the situation to unravel.
As Janiven leaves to speak to Lily, the conjurer mutters, "It is true that this show of democracy has turned into an Andoren farce, as it is wont to do..."
What this movement needs is a strong leader. Someone with authority. I suppose that would largely defeat the purpose of their misguided crusade, but all this quarreling is woefully inefficient...
As he finally sits down Monday promptly seats herself sideways in his lap, laying her head against his chest.
"I do not oppose the idea," he said smoothly, observing his gloved fingers. "As you said: we have not the luxury to let personal matters stand between us and justice."
Mera does not smile but nods in approval, as if a teacher to a student. She adds, "Thank you for understanding."
She lets out a heavy breath of air and visibly relaxes, "Whew. I'm absolutely famished, what do we have to eat around here?" She looks about for a sign of food or drink.
Janiven rises to speak with Lily, leaving Arael with his head in his hands. I wonder when the last time he ate or slept. The poor man’s nerves are frayed and this isn’t helping him. She hears Mera ask for some food and as she opens the door, she shouts for Morosimo to brink some food and drink. Maybe with some food in their bellies and wine in their mouths, they might be more social. She sees Tal and Lily and strides over to them. Tal, if I can have a word with your wife, woman to woman?
Morosimo will return with hot, tasty stew and bread that is a tad stale. He also brings a modest vintage to the group. As he sets the tray down he says, Thank you all for taking me along today. I know it is strange to say, but I never felt more..uh..alive! Is there anything else I can get for you?
"Thank you all for taking me along today. I know it is strange to say, but I never felt more..uh..alive! Is there anything else I can get for you?"
Mera takes the offered food and begins to eat quickly, starving.
Well this definitely leaves something to the imagination, but it will have to do I suppose.
After the food is delivered Mera tell Morosimo, "You did well today. The way you rushed to the cart when it was ablaze made a world of difference. Good instincts."
She returns to eating her food, trying to suppress the sour face she truly wants to make.
Nodding to Tal that it would be ok for him to sit and rest Lily gives him a hug. Don't worry Tal. From what I have gathered this is a time for a woman to woman talk. That is what you wanted was for a chance for me to speak with Janiven. I think it would be easier for her to talk freely without others around right now.
Going with Janiven Lily takes stock of the place, the old shrine of what once was as the home for a movement for the future of Westcrown. The symbolism wasn't lost on her as had grown up in the city and had seen some of the decline that Janiven was talking about. You speak as one who has experienced all of this first hand and witnessed it like I have. You speak truly when you say that there are those of us that have a duty to the people of Westcrown. While I do not let on to many of my nature, and neither does Tal for that matter, my heart is with the people here. Even since I can remember I have longed to see Westcrown freed from the night terrors that roam freely. There is no greater disruption to the natural order than these things. From what I have heard there is no solution to them. Yet there are smaller cancers that can be removed to allow nature's way and Westcrown to continue. The Bastards of Erebus that Tal mentioned to me is one such cancer that you seek to excise. I see nothing wrong in taking such action against these that hide in the night and prey upon the city.
Leaning closer to Janiven Lily's eyes twinkle as her wisdom and perception take over where Tal may miss such things. I know that you do not need my blessing by any means for taking action against them as this is your group and your decision. So I must ask, why are you coming to me now to talk woman to woman and not earlier when you invited Tal? Further more, why take action now of all times? Is there something that has happened or some knowledge that you have to make you act now rather than wait another month or year?
Not that Lily distrusts Janiven as she senses a kindred spirit (urban ranger perhaps with an urban druid) but is curious as to another agenda.
Sense motive
Relaxing back Lily looks up and waves to Tal that she is still safe. My husband does his best to look after me and I do my best to take care of him. In everything we are together and this would be no exception. Laughing at the thought Lily continues, This must be important to him to bring 2 women and a ghost into our house without me knowing ahead of time. You should have seen the look on his face and heard his voice when he tried to introduce them to me. I knew something was up but had no idea what it was until he started explaining it to me. I love that man dearly but when he gets flustered about something it is impossible for him to talk straight. I got most of the tale from Monday and Mera and you have confirmed it. Before I return to Tal and we join the others, what would you have of me?
Mera does not smile but nods in approval, as if a teacher to a student. She adds, "Thank you for understanding."
He nodded neutrally, continuing to observe his gloved fingers.
She lets out a heavy breath of air and visibly relaxes, "Whew. I'm absolutely famished, what do we have to eat around here?" She looks about for a sign of food or drink.
The man said, "I had purchased a bottle of to celebrate our victory and Arael's freedom," pointing at the bottle he outside the room through the open door.
"I suspected it best be shared with the rest of the Children outside when our discussion is done, Lady Mera. I ask your indulgence."Janiven left to speak with Lily, mentioning something about a woman-to-woman talk. Naberius and Monday were both seated, appearing drained and tired (to his eyes, at least).
"Thank you all for taking me along today. I know it is strange to say, but I never felt more..uh..alive! Is there anything else I can get for you?"
"It was nothing, Morosimo," he said to the younger man affectionately.
"But I must ask: why are you with us? Do your parents or guardians know you are here?"
Mera claps her hands together as she eyes the vintage, "Ah! Excellent choice, it will do just fine for this occasion I believe. Quite good planning I must say."
Mera waits patiently for the ladies outside to speak, absolutely positive in her belief that all will be resolved in a matter of minutes.
So I must ask, why are you coming to me now to talk woman to woman and not earlier when you invited Tal?
Janiven looks into Lily's eyes. You deserve an honest answer and I am going to give you one. Two reasons, we did not feel it was our place to interfere with Tal's and yours relationship. We figured what Tal shared or chose not to share would be totally up to him and the bond you two share-a bond we know is very important to Tal. The second reason is more selfish. We need Tal in this endeavor and while we started vetting you, no offense, we were still unsure of your reaction and you might sway Tal to say no to us before he could hear us out. We know now we could have handled that situation better.
Further more, why take action now of all times? Is there something that has happened or some knowledge that you have to make you act now rather than wait another month or year?
There is no specific event but just the general lawlessness that is rising. The Bastards are not the newest, and they are not the last and the Dottari and the Hellknights seem unable or unwilling to stem these attacks against citizens. We just feel enough is enough.
Sense motive 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15
he gets flustered about something it is impossible for him to talk straight. I got most of the tale from Monday and Mera and you have confirmed it. Before I return to Tal and we join the others, what would you have of me?
Monday definitely has that affect on men - and women! What do we want from you? Well you are free to come here anytime you want, there is usually someone here. Keep your eyes and ears open and if you hear about situations this group can help rectify, let us know. Look around, these people need training. Tal has already started training them in martial matters, but if you can train them in how to cast their innate magic that would be something. Even though you are not of the woodlands, our little friend Vitti is and perhaps you can guide him. You seem to have adopted Morosimo, and that boy definitely needs a mother! Have I left anything out? Janiven says with a chuckle. Talk it over with Tal and let me know both of your decision.
Sense Motive to realize motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14
"It was nothing, Morosimo," he said to the younger man affectionately.
"But I must ask: why are you with us? Do your parents or guardians know you are here?"
The youth looks down. Ain't got no parents. Pa was a drunkard and decided one night to pick a fight with a Hellknight. There poured bottle after bottle down his throat till he died. Ma sent me to the baker one day and was gone when I got back. I heard she had left with a traveling salesman or a circus depending on who tells it. I've been on the streets since I was eight. He looks sad for only a moment, then looks up, Can I go on your next adventure?
Leaning in conspiratorially Lily nods towards Tal and the room with the others. Honestly I don't know how you do it. If I were you I would have tried to recruit just women. They are a lot less stubborn and can work easier together.
Straightening back she looks for Vitti, While I try to keep my talents to myself and Tal I will talk to Vitti to see what his thoughts and outlook is. It must be hard for a natural spirit to be confined inside at night and in a city no less. He must be starving for change.
Leaving Janiven Lily goes to talk to Tal. You can see them quietly converse a bit before Tal crosses his arms defiantly. Lily shakes her head and points towards Janiven. Tal shakes his head no again but not as strongly. Again Lily says some more before grabbing his hand and dragging him over to Janiven. Before they get there Tal gets his hand free from Lily but still comes along. We talked it over Janiven and have agreed to both join you and your cause. I even talked Tal out of drawing this Raveen's blood should Tal somehow get upset again. I can handle myself and don't need him to protect me while here in a shrine among people that hold to the same ideals. If that is acceptable to you then I think we can return to this issue with the Bastards. Lily will walk away letting Tal follow as she goes to the door assuming that Janiven agrees.
A small smile on his face Tal watches Lily walk off. Whispering to Janiven I told you that she would be okay with this. If anything I am gong to have to hear about her not being the one sought after originally. I might have to sleep on the floor for the next couple of night for that. Oh well.
Stepping up to follow Lily Tal turns as an afterthought but is palin to see that he meant to do this. By the way I agreed to not spill Raveen's blood if he offended me or Lily. I never agreed I wouldn't knock him out. I am a man of my word after all.
Mera claps her hands together as she eyes the vintage, "Ah! Excellent choice, it will do just fine for this occasion I believe. Quite good planning I must say."
"I hoped so...planning is what I do best." He nodded, observing the door. "Lady Mera--if you don't mind me asking: what did Tal tell you?"
Ain't got no parents. Pa was a drunkard and decided one night to pick a fight with a Hellknight. There poured bottle after bottle down his throat till he died.
Ma sent me to the baker one day and was gone when I got back. I heard she had left with a traveling salesman or a circus depending on who tells it. I've been on the streets since I was eight.
"I know how it feels, Morosimo," the man said. He smiled. "If it's fine with you, we can be brothers."
I'd hate to see this kid come to harm, he thought, ruffling his hair.
Can I go on your next adventure?
"Now, what man will send his little bro to combat if he was not sure they'd win?" he asked, before his grin left.
He said heavily, "That remains to be seen, kiddo. I wouldn't hold my breath: we will need you more for the battle for the city's heart than against the Bastards."
The man looked to Naberius, wondering if he will remain silent for long if Tal entered--the men seemed to dramatically clash on very serious issues.
As the talks in both rooms continue to commence Monday sits contently on Naberius' lap. Her chest rising and falling with her breaths she gently nuzzles his chest while half asleep.
Seemingly unconcerned with the events currently playing out Tuesday simply stares off at nothing in particular, lost in thought and completely detached from the present reality.
As the talks in both rooms continue to commence Monday sits contently on Naberius' lap, gently nuzzling his chest while half asleep.
Naberius shifts uncomfortably under Monday, struggling internally between his natural instinct to secure his personal inviolability, and maintaining some semblance of dignity. Having recovered from the initial shock of being used as a mattress, he now finds himself trapped by confusion and indecision. As a gentleman, he could not just shove a lady to the ground, no matter how crass and low-born she might be...
She is very... Warm...
...verbal chastisement would likely prove ineffective...
What in the Hells am I supposed to do with my hands?!
...and perhaps, at some subconscious level, this was not all that unpleasant...
I sincerely hope that she does not fall asleep...
The man looked to Naberius, wondering if he will remain silent for long if Tal entered--the men seemed to dramatically clash on very serious issues.
At the moment, Naberius seems rather preoccupied with his Varisian dilemma...
Feeling the wizard shift underneath her Monday shifts slightly in turn, working a hand up to hold his shoulder in her stupor.
Mera turns to observe Naberius and Monday. She tilts her head slightly to one side and says, "My, my, my. You two got cozy awfully quickly. I didn't think I had been out of the room that long."
Mera turns to observe Naberius and Monday. She tilts her head slightly to one side and says, "My, my, my. You two got cozy awfully quickly. I didn't think I had been out of the room that long."
Naberius does not look amused, watching helplessly as Monday clings to him even tighter. He glances to Mera and answers, "Uhm... This is not what it looks like. I assure you, I am merely a victim of my own courtesy, which has been taken advantage of in a most outrageous manner. We can switch places, if you would like. In fact, that would be much preferable to the current state of affairs..."
Despite his harsh words, the wizard's voice is barely more than a strained whisper, so as not to wake up the dozing Monday.
Hearing welcomed voices Monday mumbles some gibberish as she nuzzles her head against Naberius some more.
Mera stifles a laugh and shakes her head, "No, no. You like quite comfortable, I'd had to intterupt that."
Turning away from Naberius and Monday, she smirks and makes her way to a seat awaiting answers from outside.