Tobias had nodded at Fethryth when she came in but had been otherwise quiet while waiting for the main event. He'd considered any number of events, but the Noses auditing them was nowhere close to the top.
He narrows his eyes as the Special Inspectors arrive and address the group, their professionalism was barely present. Clearly their time at the top of the pecking order had given Liam and Mab a sense of self importance that they felt no need to mask. He bristles a bit at the tone they take, but Tobias understood his place in the R.H.C. and he'd long ago come to terms with people talking down from him.
Accepting the letter from Fethryth, Tobias reads it over than takes his seat next to the other two constables. Crossing one leg over the other he whistles low and shakes his head. "Indefinite incarceration, well I'm comfortable in saying it won't come to that, not from non-compliance or a lack of integrity. Ready when you are, sir." He leans over and places the letter on the nearest table then resumes a more professional position as he nods to Special Inspector Liam.
”Excellent to hear it,” replies Special-Inspector ‘Liam’ to Tobias with a returned nod, then nodding slightly to both Fethryth and Jesselle in turn. From a small belt pouch at his side he extracts a golden medallion in the shape of an hourglass, using a cantrip to float it to the center of the room upon the floor. ”That shall ensure we do not have to keep interrupting you three with repeated castings of our incantations – Mab will you do the honors please?”
Special-Inspectress Mab begins by casting what is clearly an arcane incantation, conjuring forth a veritable shower of silver glittery motes at the game parlor’s ceiling which gently float down upon everyone in the room – all three constables have heard of a similar incantation of golden glittery motes that could both reveal hidden enemies as well as blind them, but this spell seems to be different in nature. As the silvery motes blanket them they all feel a tightening of their skin, as if the air presses upon them in a slightly uncomfortable way; instantly in their minds they know they cannot knowingly speak a lie or even embellish a story, the discomforting tightness increasing even as they would think to form falsehoods upon their lips.
The truthsaying spell covers them all in the parlor, so it appears both Liam and Mab are subject to the same incantation as well as the three constables. The hourglass medallion briefly flairs up with illumination and draws some of the silvery motes around it in a gentle swirl which then slows down to a barely visible crawl.
Pulling forth a golden-rimmed pair of opera viewing lenses from her handbag, Mab casts a second spell upon herself, which turns her pale blue eyes an intense azure color as she gazes at them, adding some sort of arcane sight to her vision. She then briefly looks through the opera glasses and nods to her counterpart in confirmation.
Liam then casts his own incantation upon himself, whereupon a third eye of amber seems to appear upon his forehead briefly and blinks at the constables arrayed before him, before the eye itself disappears from normal view. Liam’s “normal” eyes do not change as Mab’s have done, but it seems to the trio that his gaze is utterly unflinching and able to perceive much more than most could; he appears to be gazing as much above and around their faces as he does looking at their returning stares back at him. With a final nod to Mab that he is ready, he begins the interrogation…
…It is not much of a surprise to Jesselle, Tobias and most especially Fethryth that he begins his inquiries on the subject of Duchess Ethelyn and the 1 Spring Rebellion, though Jesselle finds the questions pertaining to 1 Spring to be much more dire than even the dailies had reported while she was away:
”Are you loyal to Risur? Are you loyal to King Aodhan Lesterman? Are you loyal to the Royal Homeland Constabulary and the oaths that you swore to abide by as Constables? Have you ever willingly…or unwillingly…betrayed your oaths to the R.H.C., your King or your kingdom?”
”Are you or were you in league with Duchess Ethelyn Lesterman of Shale? Are you or were you ever a participant in her plot to assassinate King Aodhan Lesterman and usurp the throne of Risur? Have you ever had personal or private dealings with Duchess Ethelyn, or any direct dealings with her outside of your duties as constables? Prior to R.H.C. priority briefings on 2 Spring, were you ever aware of a plot by the Duchess or her sympathizers to kill or harm King Aodhan, Principal Minister Lee, Flint Governor Stanfield or any of the King’s retinue? Were you ever aware of a plot by the Duchess or her sympathizers to sabotage and destroy the R.N.S. Coaltongue? Were you ever aware of a plot by the Duchess or her sympathizers to take control of Shale? Were you ever aware of plots by the Duchess or her sympathizers to lure Shale Branch constables to prepared ambushes for kill or capture, or to provide information regarding Shale Branch for its capture by rebel forces?”
Mab then takes a turn, asking questions of all three at the same time as did Liam, though with special interest to Fethryth’s responses. It is not lost upon Fethryth that these are some of the very same questions Chief Inspector Spencer Hopkins interrogated her several days ago when seemingly she was branded as suspect to the organization she served so faithfully:
”Beyond what has been provided in R.H.C. mission briefings and reports, are you aware of fey sympathizers supporting Duchess Ethelyn? Do you support fey terrorist actions to destabilize the lawful actions of the cities and people of Risur? Do you have any personal connections to the fey terrorist and eladrin female known as Gale Soliogn? Do you have any personal connections to the rebel eladrin female known as Sorkana Dell? Do you have any personal connections to the rebel deva male known as Garrys Tranth? Do you have any personal connections to the rebel halfling male known only as Ilton? Do you have personal ties to eladrin or Risuri-elven enclaves that seek to undermine Risur, King Aodhan, or the rightful rulership of the Risuri people?”
With the interrogation half over, Mab re-casts the truthsaying incantation of silvery motes upon the parlor, while Liam bids the constables to refresh themselves with water or tea briefly as he scribbles notations in a small leather-bound journal. Soon enough the three constables are back in their chairs for the second half of their audit…
…yet the next barrage of questions from Liam are certainly ones they did not anticipate:
”Outside of R.H.C. duties and briefings, did you know the former Constable Makala Fileccia of Flint Branch? Did you have any personal dealings with Makala Fileccia? Were you aware of her impending transfer and appointment to the ‘Resilience’ team prior to it being posted last Winter Season? Were you aware of the details of her murder in Flint by Duchess Ethelyn Lesterman, Sorkana Dell, Garrys Tranth and Ilton the halfling prior to the R.H.C. sealed debriefing meeting on 4 Spring? Are you or were you aware of a “dalliance” or romantic relationship between Constable Makala Fileccia and Chief Inspector Spencer Hopkins?”
Mab continues the line of questioning further, giving the trio even more pause to wonder what has occurred and why they are involved:
”Outside of R.H.C. duties and briefings, do you know Constable Johnathan Jackson of Shale Branch? Do you of did you have any personal dealings with Johnathan Jackson? Did you come into contact with him here at Slate Branch on 5 Spring after he was rescued from Shale? If so, what was his state of mind in your opinion? Though each of you are Constables of Slate Branch and are colleagues with Constable Ifris Lanvaldan – formerly of the ‘King’s Bodyguards’ team – do you consider yourself friends with her or have personal connections to her in any way? Did Ifris Lanvaldan speak to you at all prior to her departure from Slate Branch in the timeframe of 5-6 Spring? Do you know of a letter she recently wrote to the Landvaldan family – her parents – prior to her departure on a First Tier mission abroad that is ‘Sealed to the Inspectorate’ only?”
The audit is then concluded by Liam, whose questions paint the most troubling picture of all:
”Outside of R.H.C. duties, briefings or other formal business pertaining to the normal courses of action between constables and inspectors, do you know Chief Inspector Spencer Hopkins? Do you or did you have any personal dealings with Spencer Hopkins? Have you ever received instructions, orders or changes to your mission assignments directly from Hopkins that were contrary to the mission assignment or its parameters? Has Spencer Hopkins ever coerced you, bribed you or blackmailed you to change your mission priorities, falsify briefing reports, or in any other way alter your normal duties in the R.H.C.? Are you aware of the whereabouts of the ‘Resilience’ team or their current mission abroad? Are you aware of the mission specifics that Constables Lanvaldan and Jackson are both on? What do you know, if anything, of these current missions undertaken?”
As an intense hour of the audit draws to a close, both Liam and Mab turn to look at each other expectantly, as if to silently confirm to each other with a mere look as to what both are thinking of the three constables before them. The tightness of the truthsaying spell fades from the parlor…
Enraged by the last blast from the wizard, Spiny Jack decides to get even by focusing all his energies on destroying his familiar. The little dragon is so preoccupied by attacking Anneca that it ignores Jack completely. ’Your mistake you little piece of S$%^.’ He swings this hammer with all his might and crushes the little beast against the tower wall. It lets out a pitiful little shriek as it drops to the ground. Jackson spits on its lifeless body and then decides to step back out of the wizard’s line of sight.
As Mab began her spellcasting Jesselle could tell it was off from any normal spell. She attempted to follow the castings, after all knowledge was power.
As she stared her head began to hurt at the power needed and required. A dull throb settled in after the woman had finished. She thought to herself, 'Oh am I going to regret that.'
As the questioning started and continued Jesselle tried to pay attention to the names asked about She did not know any of them and own answers were in the negative of, "No or I do not." She had to assume throughout the hour that some or perhaps all of these people mentioned had some hand in the happenings of Risur since 1 Spring, but what was still a mystery to her. After all she was at the Swaying Willows Inn the entire time.
She now wished she had disobeyed orders and traveled to Slate, at least she would not be in the dark. Even now, while there was a light shining on events, for Jesselle she might as well still be in the dark. She was going to have a lot of catching up to do after the audit.
As the questioning finished she felt oddly drained but pushed through the mental fatigue. The pounding in her head was still there but seem a little less. She sipped at a glass of water before turning her attention towards Mab and Liam once again, hoping for some sort of explanation.
Gemma takes a quick look around, looking to see where each of her fellow constables are. She calculates distance, position, options, possibilities…but doesn’t like what she sees. Normally, it’s all very clean and clear in her head, but this has all gotten a bit muddled and messy.
Not enough light for Willem and Ifris. Eight steps up to the lighthouse but then I’ll be in Emerson’s way. Not much room on the stairs. And there’s something, something on the landing that the soldier slipped up in. What is that? Little dragon’s no longer an issue. Johnathan’s about dead. Anneca’s up and doing well. B@%*&@@s! What to do. What to do.
Then in the low light Gemma spies a door across from the stairs.
There’s no way the mechanism will be up in the lighthouse. The way to open the sea gate has to be close, on the bottom somewhere.
Her eyes quickly follow out along the wall to the sea gate itself where she spies the tops of gears in the near dark. A small smile crosses her lips and then she’s off, drawing her sabre along the way.
Not only does she not want anyone else sneaking up behind them, she also has hopes that the door will indeed lead to the sea gate opening mechanism. She drops her unloaded pistol next to the wall by the door, then opens it, hoping there will be no one inside waiting for her.
"Buuurrr, If ... If ... I ... I don't ... don't remove the druids head from his ... his ... his shoulder's, give him ... him ... a 3rd eye Constable ... Muhnee ... Muhnee"
Willem nods and touches the brim of his cowboy hat to Ifris, "Will do Constable Lanvaldan!" He the runs at port arms to L-8 so he (and Ifris) can get into this fight at the lighthouse.
Ifris smirks to Willem then runs to L-9. She stops and looks at Gemma and whispers, ::"It could be good or bad if you open that door Constable Atherton. Good, if no one is in there and maybe the controls are in there and/or give the rebels a two front battle in the lighthouse? Now, it could be bad and add more rebels into the fray or some other surprise?"::
As Gemma opens the door to the blockhouse adjoining the lighthouse tower structure, light from an ensconced gaslamp spills out from inside this single chamber. True to her estimations, the room appears to have an elaborate level-and-gear mechanism on the far left side, though much of it is shrouded in darkness still. A stairwell by the lamp leads upwards to a door, which she assumes leads back into the bottom level of the lighthouse tower where Anneca and Johnathan are fighting to gain access to. The purplish faerie fire of both Willem and Ifris indicate they are there with Gemma and have her back, though at the moment it appears there are no further enemies to be found in the blockhouse…
The Risuri rebel soldier curses and rises from being bowled over by the barrel, and pushes his way…somewhere where none but Anneca’s aerial assistant can see. The sound of a barrel being briefly moved on stone can be heard back at where the ramp meets the top of the seawall, but the flaming barrel is burning low now and nothing distinct can be seen in the distance…
SeaGate Middle Area
SeaGate Full Map
"Well, Jackson, thanks for that," she says a bit dryly as he crushes the little dragon before it can sting her again. A better teammate would probably check on his injuries, give him her own potion to save him... But she is not a team player, and her opinion stands that she can do more good smoking their enemies than by playing nurse. She looks up and spies the open window above where the wizard had been sniping from. Hopefully the silencing spell has run its course, she hopes, as she snatches onto the power of her coin. With a rush, she can feel gravity slip away, even if it is for but a moment. She leaps straight upwards, hoping to catch the wizard off guard before he can get to a more defensible position on the second level. She flies - somehow as easily as walking - through the window and hits her stride. Still magically speeding along, she sees him try to turn and face her as she makes a clatter of noise and makes it to the top of the stairs before he does. "Arcane missiles are ineffective relative to straight elemental manipulation," she advises. He is too slow as she gathers the fiery spell in her hands, shifts it to electricity just in case he has adapted since the first spell she hit him with, and flings it at him. The lighting hungrily consumes him, entering his body from a hundred points and channeling out through one of his unprotected feet. She shouts out the window to the elemental. "Up here! Defend the tower!"
Emerson can see that Jackson is very bad off. He steps closer to his comrade pulls forth his healing wand and invokes its power. Emerson can see that some of Johnathan’s bleeding is abating but knows he will need more attention. ”Let’s get you inside and patch you up as quickly as possible.”
”A-Aron. Take position between the stairs and the gas lamp.” Emerson thinks and says under his breath. While the elemental obeys his commands, Emerson is still not sure if he needs to speak or if he can just think commands. The elemental obeys his master and again melts into the floor. It moves unseen out of the tower and stays hidden just beyond the gas lamp’s light radius.
Keep it in!
Tobias' first instinct was to lash out with his own mental power, to fight against the restriction from lying, but he'd been through this process before and he knew he could control it. It wasn't easy though.
The inquisition started off pretty standard. The answers were simple. Of course I'm loyal to Risur. No, I'd never align myself against King Aodhan. He even admitted to empathising with the rebels although he didn't agree with their views or how they were implementing their ideals.
Then came the inquiry about his fellow Constables. Tobias admitted to staying away from Jackson. Worried the war hero might be in too much turmoil, he hadn't wanted to risk any sort of strong residual psychic feedback that sometimes came from a person after experiencing a traumatic event. As interesting as it may have been to meet Spiny Jack, he'd kept his head down and done some much needed paperwork. Lanvaldan might as well have been a stranger for all the interest she took in other Slate Branch Constables, but having the two come up during this investigation was curious indeed.
The questions about Hopkins gave Tobias pause. The man had not exactly been easy to work under, but Tobias had admired his past as a successful spy. That his integrity would be called in to question in such a way was both unnerving and disquieting. That questions regarding his methods led directly into questions about whatever mission Resilience, Jackson and Lanvaldan were on was even more unnerving somehow.
Could Hopkins be turning on the team he helped to create? What would cause a man like that to turn his back on Risur? I know he has his issues with Hill but, it can't be that bad can it? Maybe this is part of the test, to see if I base my information off of conjecture, or maybe they're dropping clues to assess my ability as a detective.
Thoughts continue to race through his head as the audit concludes. At first Tobias is too lost in thought to even realize he's answered all the questions he's been asked but when he does he turns to the Noses and spreads his hands wide.
"So...what now?
For someone who’s about to be interrogated by the R.H.C’s almost mythical Noses, Fethryth feels pretty good. It’s not her idea of a good time but it will clear her name and that’s all that matters. She’s had no knowledge of the Duchess’ plots and she’s always been a loyal constable so there’s nothing to be worried about. ”Look on the bright side, you’re getting a firsthand demonstration of advanced interrogation techniques.’ she muses as Mab casts the truthsaying spell.
While she gets through the first round easily, it’s the second round of questioning that starts catching her off guard. ”Are you or were you aware of a “dalliance” or romantic relationship between Constable Makala Fileccia and Chief Inspector Spencer Hopkins?” Liam aims the question at her first and it’s so unexpected that she actually snorts.
”A romance with Hopkins? That man is a womanizer; I’ve caught him staring at my rear.” Horror washes over her when she realizes what she’s said. ”Stars above, please don’t put that bit about my rear in the official record.” she pleads, but Liam doesn’t even acknowledge the request.
Visions of an angry Hopkins dance in the back of her mind until he’s brought up again..and again..and again. There’s a sinking feeling in her stomach; something has gone very wrong. ”Spencer Hopkins never asked nor ordered me to do anything contrary to my orders. I have never, not once in my career, gone outside of mission parameters or falsified a report or been blackmailed. The only ‘abnormal’ thing between myself and Spencer Hopkins is that he is harder on me than he is on most, but that holds true to his dealings with anybody connected to the Elves or the Fey or the Old Ways. I am a fabulous representation of all three, therefore he gave me a lot of the garbage duties, but that’s it.”
There’s a thousand questions zinging through her mind when the interrogation ends but she decides to keep her mouth shut and wait for a reply to Tobais’ words.
Jesselle peers intently at Mab as the woman casts her incantation across the gaming parlor, using both her knowledge as well as her own innate arcane abilities to discern something of the mystery behind these Noses and their secretive ways. As Mab’s incantation ignites the arcane patterns of her spoken formula, Jesselle sees the focus point of her casting shift from her to a…small dark greenish scorpion that sits crouched on a bookshelf behind and to her left upon the wall, hidden if not for trace of magic that Jesselle is now able to discern. It seems to Jesselle that Mab uses the creature as a focus for her casting, but that the insect is much more to her than that…a familiar? The concept of familiars is known to Jesselle, which makes Mab a Risuri wizard…or witch…of some strength. As the silvery motes fall across the room, Jesselle recognizes the spell as a truthsaying ward, though its manifested appearance is more fey-like in origins, less bookish and clinical somehow than an academically trained wizard of Mitchell or Pardwright would know to do it.
Then something…happens. Jesselle suddenly sees more with her eyes than she has ever seen before, as if guided by spirits long-past of Risuri history that mastered arcane power many times over. Is it this place and its history, or the echoes of ghosts and spiritual energy that have walked here in the past? Jesselle cannot know, but her sight from Mab’s casting of the second incantation is like the reflection of a mirror, whereupon she knows the witch has imbued her sight with the ability to see arcane auras of all in the room, both in color commensurate to the classic schools of arcane study as well as their intensity and strength – like Jesselle’s own ability to detect magical emanations but with much more alacrity and focus. Mab’s third incantation is one slyly cast as she raises her opera glasses to peer at the trio of constables – an arcane spell Jesselle has heard of which requires great concentration to hold, allowing Mab to delve into the surface thoughts of the subjects she peers at.
Yet the knowledge she gleans is not only limited to Mab, but stretches over to Liam as well: for a moment Jesselle sees that both Liam’s purplish-hued spectacles and his walking cane are far older than current craftsmanship and fashion, imbuing strange powers to the lead inspector that is not arcane magic at all, but something…familiar. Two echoes of spirits spring forth in Jesselle’s mind then, ghostly impressions of people that once held these objects as their own, which somehow Liam understands and draws upon to give him spiritual powers to command. His own incantation of the “third eye” which she briefly sees is not arcane magic, but spiritually derived magic that Jesselle has only seen on very bad nights when Lady Masters would “call” upon her. Jesselle has never seen spiritual magic harnessed in this way before, but somehow understands that Liam is using it to discern her emotional state and that of her two colleagues. Of Liam’s gaze upon them all with his “normal eyes” he does not see anything arcane in his stare, but just simply that he is drawing power from the land of Risur itself, with the righteousness of his beliefs and his mission, to see intentions and dispositions of benevolence or malice in a person, the aura-echo of their true soul and its capacity to adhere to Weal or Woe, Law or Chaos, as befitting their divine essence from the Heavens that gave them substance and form…
”Indeed, Tobias Utegg. What now indeed?” The Special Inspector known only as ‘Liam’ gives Tobias a raised eyebrow and a slight smirk of amusement, even as he uses a cantrip to bring the hourglass medallion back to him from the middle of the parlor room floor. He then reaches over and knocks twice sharply upon the door with a gloved hand.
A moment later the door clicks and opens, with a third burly man with side chops and a brown bowler hat peeking in from the door in response. ”Checked out did they?” The question by the third of the Noses, the one called Guy, seems to be rhetorical as he already seemingly knows the answer. His voice bears a slight accent of a Danoran native, though whether it is indicative of the Yerasol islands or the Danoran homeland itself is anyone’s guess. Guy looks at both Tobias and Jesselle and gives each of them a respectful nod – he was their presiding auditor before they each became a constable after all. ”Utegg. Wesmere. Good to see you again.”
Liam interrupts before they can return the pleasantries. ”Guy, take the squad and make preparations at Slate Branch immediately. We shall be along as soon as the mission assignment is given and explained.”
”Yes, I’ll have them all posted in case the milk spoils,” replies Guy with a respectful nod to Liam, though he takes a brief look to the three constables with a note of what seems like concern. ”Liam, you certain they are up for this?”
”They will need to be. It is what the Director wants if they were proven loyal.”
”Very well. I’ll see you there then.” As Guy nods once more and exits the doorway, the three constables briefly sees several soldiers in Griffon’s Roost livery in the hallway and down the top of the stairs, all armed to the hilt with muskets and swords, some bearing expensive magecuffs. The door closes behind Guy’s departure, leaving just the five of them back to themselves in the parlor room.
Mab is the next one to speak, making an exclamation to Liam even as she points at Fethryth. ”I KNEW IT!” Her visage can only be something akin to exultation...or pride? ”I knew those claims were false upon her. Utter rubbish! I audited her myself, and never would something like that have slipped through.” Mab looks then to Fethryth and gives her a knowing nod, one that for the first time in days is a look of utter confidence and belief in her.
”Suspecting truth is one thing, confirmation of it is quite another,” replies Liam impassively to Mab. “We needed proof, and now we have it. Let us continue on then with the business at hand.” The lead Special Inspector reaches into his vest pocket and produces two more sealed letters, looking at them in a cursory manner before floating them with a cantrip back to the same low table next to where the three constables are seated. Seemingly both in the handwriting of Director Price-Hill himself and bearing his seal, the left-hand letter is addressed simply to the “Constables of the R.H.C.”, whereas the right-hand letter is addressed to “Spencer Hopkins” and is apparently not for them to open.
To Those Constables of Slate Branch Who Bear This Letter or are in Direct Attendance of It:
You are hereby given the full authority of the Royal Homeland Constabulary to act as my Hand or Hands, in all matters pertaining to the lawful announcement, arrest, detainment and forfeiture of property and possessions of one Spencer Hopkins of Slate Branch, hereby demoted as former Chief Inspector of Foreign Affairs at Slate Branch, pending resolution of all charges and accusations levied against his name. As acting Hand or Hands of the Directorate, you are hereby authorized to state the charges to the accused for conduct unbecoming a high official of the Constabulary and numerous violations of its codes, laws and mandate, including but not limited to the minor charges of: improper relations with a constable of lesser rank, display of favoritism towards a constable of lesser rank in evaluation and selection of stated individual for promotional post, display of extreme bias towards a constable of lesser rank for minor audit and debriefing, misleading conduct towards peers and superiors upon minor audit results. Of the major charges: deliberate falsification of written findings of the mental and physical mission fitness of both Slate Branch and Shale Branch constables, deliberate and contravening alteration of mission directives and parameters as originally mandated by King Aodhan, Principal Minister Lee and the R.H.C. Directorate, deliberate coercion-by-bribery of a Shale Branch constable to obey contravening mission directives over original mission directives, and deliberate coercion-by-blackmail of a Slate Branch constable to obey contravening mission directives over original mission directives. This directive is to be carried out effective immediately. Mission status defined as: First Tier Verdant Wolf with Staff upon Bars-Diagonally displayed.
This I swear, under the benevolent passage of the Heavens and by oaths sworn to King and Country, on this day the 12th Day of Spring, the Five-Hundredth Year After Our Victory, Nigel Price-Hill, Lord and Viscount of Sustenberry, Director of the Royal Homeland Constabulary.
Liam clasps his hands as he leans back in his chair, observing the three constables as they read the letter addressed to them. ”I am sure you have some questions?”
"AHHHHHHHHHHHFFFTTGGGTttthhh..." With a hideous shriek the electrocuted rebel wizard pitches forward and tumbles down the stairwell back to the bottom floor of the lighthouse tower, ending up in an awkward heap at the base of the stairs with an arm jutting outward at an odd angle, parts of his robes and skin slightly smoking.
The aerial assistant avoids the husk of the burned barrel nearby and instead returns to its mistress, moving by the rebel druid as it does so and sending the hapless fellow stumbling forward with a vicious slam to his back; the rebel tries to make contact with the elemental as it streaks by, the empowered club swinging mightily, but the creature is too fast and the club only finds empty air in the darkness.
The aerial assistant effortlessly moves through the doorway and finds Anneca upon the stairs, floating up next to her. Its voice is windy and whispering, speaking the strange language that only Anneca can understand.
In the darkness a man voice can be heard to say, "We need help!" The rebel patrolman with the crossbow that was originally spied down at the skiff finally comes into view near the farthest gaslamp, retreating without running back along the top of the seawall and away from the carnage.
Jack, his ears ringing and eyes watering from the last couple of magical blasts looks down and sees his pistol lying at his feet. He bends down and picks it up. Then cautiously, he walks through the greased portal and into the tower. ”Nice shot Anneca. Now all we have to do is hold this position long enough to open those doors.”
Gemma moves cautiously into the room and over towards what she assumes to be the sea gate control levers.
This better work.
Looking back to Ifris at the door, she calls back to the former marine. "If this works, I'm going to need someone to let Anneca know to start the pyrotechnics. We'll have to signal the fleet quickly and she's the only one with the means to do it."
Jesselle barely listened to the explanation of the audit as she considered all that she gleaned from the watching Mab and Liam casting and use of their abilities.
She did catch seeing and returned Guy's greeting with a small wave. It was almost good to see the man once again.
She caught Liam's comment on the matters at hand and the letters. This time Jesselle took the time to read the letter. She then moved to let the others also read the letter as she considered her queries.
Looking to Liam she spoke, "The mission status is weeks in length? Does that mean we must Hopkins is on the run or some distance?"
"Mmmm? Is that listed so in the Director's letter to you?" Liam looks confused for a moment, but then shrugs and waves a hand as if the matter is inconsequential. "Perhaps he wrote it wrong in his haste early this morning, or perhaps you are still using the older codes that have changed for this year since your departure. No matter...no Constable Wesmere, the matter should be concluded in its entirety this morning. In the next hour if it can be managed. Hopkins is in his private study in his tower at Slate Branch, just as he always is after morning briefings. He is not aware of the actions against him. You three are to proceed there and arrest Spencer Hopkins with the full authority of the Directorate, as indicated and supplied in your letter. Serve him his arrest order and encourage him to disarm and comply peacefully. Once that is done and you turn him over to the custody of the fortress guards, I expect the Director will wish to see you three directly."
Jesselle nods her head, "Perhaps I misread. It sounds easy enough, unless there is more to it than has been presented?"
She than considers for several moments, "I do not suppose any of you are at libberty to say what this audit was all about? I mean, most if not all your queries had nothing to do with us."
Fethryth ads ”I’m wondering that myself. No offense to my fellow constables, but rolling out all three Noses on top of that squad outside seems like overkill.”
She gestures to the letter ”Oh, and Hopkin’s charges? ”Display of extreme bias towards a constable of lesser rank for minor audit and debriefing and Misleading conduct towards peers and superiors upon minor audit results? Am I the source of those?”
Mab leans forward to regard Fethryth with interest. "Why yes you are the source of those particular charges, Constable Teldanona! Those, and the major charge of 'deliberate falsification of written findings' of your mental state, declaring you unfit for duty - though you are not the only Constable that Hopkins falsified accounts on!" Mab taps at her chin in interest. "In the interests of getting you "out of the way" so to speak on a First Tier mission that was being formed at the time, he was willing to sacrifice your career to see that he had constables which were, shall we say, more pliable to his personal goals. That simply cannot be allowed to stand."
"Quite simply put, Constables Wesmere and Teldanona," adds Liam smoothly, "Hopkins has subverted two constables to change their mission objectives on a First-Tier mission. Upon learning of this, we and the Directorate simply did not know how many constables were affected by his machinations. We had to be certain you three were not unduly influenced or subverted to his whims." With a gesture to Fethryth he adds, "Though it was clear to us Constable Teldanona's reputation...and her very career...was put into jeopardy so that Hopkins could ensure the mission was stacked with those in his favor was obvious, we still had to be certain beyond all doubts. After all, this violation of our Constabulary's principles by one of its top members is...unprecedented...to say the least."
Tobias takes a more relaxed position and considers the mission, having come to a conclusion that Hopkins was in trouble from the audit, he wasn't particularly surprised by the turn of events but it was still unusual.
"Why us? We've never worked together so we're unlikely to have much synergy. On top of that you're sending Teldanona, a constable Hopkins has shown an extreme dislike of. Isn't there a risk that this will enrage him and make him less cooperative? Or is that perhaps the goal?"
He frowns a bit as he taps his ring against his necklace, using rhe familiar rhythm to help him think.
"Not to mention, what of our more senior colleagues? Will they not see our arresting a former Chief Inspector as some form of slight? Not that I'm uneager to take on higher profile missions but discord in the office during a stressful time like this could lead to further complications."
"It is to be you three because the Directorate says it is to be so, Constable Utegg. Since you have proven yourselves loyal and trustworthy, we three Special Inspectors are to cede our evidence to you, so that loyal constables of Slate Branch can make the arrest, demonstrating they do not tolerate offenses of such, even by those considered superior in rank and tenure." With a dissatisfied glower at Tobias, Liam continues in an instructive tone, "Sealed to the Constabulary, this will appear to the public that you three were the ones to uncover the improprieties, which will lessen the blow to the R.H.C. when it is known such a high-profile officer has been removed from his post. Naturally this will be what is reported to the scribes of the various dailies of Risur, which is how Director Price-Hill wishes it."
Liam spreads his hands with almost a derisive snort. "You balk at the express orders of your Director, Utegg? Perhaps I did not delve so well into your..."
"Liam, dear," interrupts Mab by reaching over and laying a hand on the armrest of his chair. "Perhaps the good Constable Utegg needs to know more as to the specifics of what Hopkins has done wrong. Since he is being asked to arrest him and all. I think we can afford to do that, at least."
"Fine, but we are not to discuss the details of the current mission that Constables Jackson and Lanvaldan are on - that will be under the discretion of Director Price-Hill himself."
Mab looks to Tobias, as well as the other two constables in the room. "What would you wish to know that would seal away all doubt in your mind to the necessity of this directive?"
”I find myself highly motivated to follow this directive” Fethryth locks eyes with Mab, a knot of dread forming in her stomach. ”Now, ruining my career is one thing. But, manipulating a mission, that’s so much worse. The mission to Shale, he sabotaged it? Nobody told me a *#*(% thing in that $*)%@% safehouse. What happened?”
Jesselle looks to Tobias as he asks his questions of 'why us' knowing she does not share his concerns. She listens to Liam's and Mab's replies and then turns to Fethryth as she comments rather colorfully.
She considers and replies to her colleagues with no sarcasm or such, "I am ready. Let me know when you both are."
She moves over and finishes off her glass of water as she takes up her rucksack and slings it over her shoulder followed by her shortbow. As she is closer to the book shelf she looks to the scorpion that she spotted earlier and nods to the creature treating it as one would another person.
Tobias raises an eyebrow, unsure what he's done to irritate Inspector Liam, but not letting it keep him quiet while he still had questions to ask.
"You opened the floor for questions, had I realized I was to be admonished for my curiosity I might have thought twice. However now I know why Constable Teldanona is here. Given the cover story it makes perfect sense that she would have inspired an investigation on Hopkins."
He leans forward in his chair, chin in hand and looks up at the Noses. " You dug far enough to understand that this is the type of assignment I've been waiting for, so why you'd assume my questioning meant dissent I can't understand, but at the risk of angering you further I have one more. Should we expect any backlash or outright reinforcement from Hopkins favorites? I ask only so I am prepared. Once that's answered I am ready to carry out our assignment."
"Fair enough, Tobias Utegg, fair enough." Liam sighs uneasily. "I did ask for questions after all. It is not within my nature to readily provide them." He shrugs his shoulders. "Yet as Mab has reminded me, these are extraordinary circumstances. I will see if I can answer your question on reprisals once Mab has related the details of the former Chief Inspector's transgressions."
Mab looks with a raised eyebrow to Jesselle, noticing that the woman has noticed her friend upon the shelf. "That is Edith. A female of her variety, superior of course." Mab turns her attention back to Fethryth and Tobias. "What happened? That Spencer Hopkins had entered into a romantic relationship with Makala Fileccia, and had all but ensured Fileccia was to gain the Resilience team vacancy over Anderson Sperring would be grounds for reprimand, even demotion as Chief Inspector. Not that Constable Fileccia wasn't the first choice by Tanya Sparhawk for Resilience - she was and Sperring's arrogance and egotism assured he would not gain the post - yet the improprieties by Hopkins were well beyond all tolerance."
The Special Inspectress rises from her chair, casually moving over to the shelf where she extends a hand for a dark green and brown scorpion to scamper up her arm and onto her shoulder. Appalling to most, the creature seems to be a known comfort for her, and Mab rests an arm on the bookshelf as she continues her story to the three constables. "Still, that is nothing when compared to his actions after Makala's murder in Flint by the Duchess and her rebellious inner circle. Hopkins has taken it upon himself to avenge her death, for despite his womanizing ways he apparently had strong feelings for her. Those feelings have clouded his judgment, his desire for personal revenge made manifest just as a critical first-tier mission was being planned..."
Mab looks over at Liam then, who has a decided frown upon his face and shakes his head ever-so-slightly at her. Sighing she continues, "...let us just say that an...opportunity...has arisen to capture the Duchess and bring her to justice, to account for her many crimes. Though it is possible she cannot be captured alive, King Aodhan's command is that all steps must be taken to try to secure her alive - certainly the King does not wish for his sister to be made a martyr and extend this fledgling rebellion any longer than necessary. His Majesty's instructions are quite clear on the matter. Yet Spencer Hopkins apparently cares for none of this. He has changed the orders of capture to a kill order, to assassinate the Duchess at the earliest opportunity. To accomplish this, he has coerced two constables to give them these special orders of assassination. Johnathan Jackson and Ifris Lanvaldan. The methods of coercion were different, but we have evidence that both mean to kill Duchess Ethelyn at their first opportunity."
Letting the gravity of the countermanding orders sink in, Mab nods to Fethryth and confirms the reason why she was treated so harshly by Spencer Hopkins on 4 Spring. "Hopkins has biases against Risuri elves in general - and your background in particular - to be sure. Yet your record was impeccable, and you were on a short list to receive priority assignment on the first-tier mission that was in the planning stages. Hopkins knew he could not coerce you to accept his contrary mission objective, so he threw suspicion on you and had you removed from active duty. He did so, Fethryth, because he needed to put another in your place on the backup team that he could manipulate. Apparently, that other constable was Johnathan Jackson - rescued from captivity in Shale the very night after your removal. Objectively unfit for a return for duty, Hopkins obfuscated this fact and got him on the mission on 5 Spring after getting him to agree to be a secret assassin. Lanvaldan was evidently blackmailed to do the same, though we wouldn't know any of this for several days afterward."
Liam clears his throat to gain their attention. Regarding the three constables, he returns back to the questions Tobias had asked. "We simply did not know how many constables had been subverted by Hopkins. We had to be certain. As to why you three have been chosen to topple Hopkins...quite simply put there is no one else left that can be trusted with this in the time we have left. Utegg, you know Constable Kurbar Danst is still well injured from the 1 Spring failed attempt of the rebel soldiers to take over Torfield Palace, and should not even be on active duty except that we have no one else to cover for his absence. Constable Veranique is trustworthy but old, already past time for retirement. The new transfer from Flint Branch, Constable Francis Kane, is well too green and an unknown to risk it. Everyone else is in the field - either abroad or in action in Shale - and cannot be pulled from their missions. There is no one else, besides Guy, Mab and myself..." Liam's eyes glower dangerously for a moment, his voice growing softer and more menacing, "...and we three have an unpleasant history with Spencer Hopkins, with a violent confrontation all but certain if we do it. The Director wants to avoid bloodshed if at all possible. Politics and public relations aside, if you three issue the edict there is a fair chance he will not draw his blade upon you, and will accept the order. There is no one else that we can trust to do it."
Jesselle nods to Mab as she acknowledges her notice and explains her familiar. She pays attention to the expanded explanation of of their current orders and why they had been chosen.
'I suppose the lack of Constables is as good as any other reason for them them to be involved,' she thinks to herself.
She looks to Tobias and Fethryth to see if both are satisfied with the answer and ready to proceed with their orders. Considering things she hoped that things would be easy, but that nagging feeling told her that something more would come of the day.
Tobias nods his understanding, then stands up and retrieves his hat and coat from the other side of the room.
Jackson and Lanvaldan were both convinced to change their orders? The kings own former bodyguard?
Once he's ready to face the wind and cold again he tips his hat to the Noses and opens the door for his fellow constables.
"I'm ready when everyone else is, just a short walk and we'll be the talk of the office. For a little while at least."
Willem follows Gemma inside, lets Ifris inside, and then closes the door and locks it. He then looks for other things that can be secured such as the windows.
"Constable Atherton, if possible, I will secure the door and winders while you figure out the gate. Constable Lanvaldan take the inside door to the lighthouse. I wouldn't think they would have locked it or trapped it since we both surprised them and did not enter this portion until most of them were beaten to cause them worry of a two front battle ... And when is this fraken glowin' streetlamp crap all over me goin' to be over with?!"
Willem will open and close the door if Ifris has to go outside to relay Gemma's message to Anneca.
Ifris nods to Gemma and then growls at Willem letting him know she isn't blind. In response, Willem smiles as she runs to the interior gatehouse to lighthouse door, and tries to go through. If locked, she then runs or starts running for the long way around through the front doors. If she is able to get into the light house, she yells up, "Constable Summers, get ready for the pyrotechnics to signal the fleet. Constable Atherton is at the Gatehouse controls and is attempting to open the gate."
Contrary to Gemma’s concerns about the panel being something akin to what they dealt with on the Coaltongue, she finds the sea gate mechanism is well-marked and relatively easy to open: Gemma turns two valves clockwise, opens a marked safety latch, and pulls a single metal level down towards herself. Almost instantly a loud mechanical clanking sound reverberates up from the many gears and greased belts just outside the windows of the blockhouse, with the process of opening the sea gate starting.
It is impossible to not hear the sound – all allies and enemies both in the lighthouse or on the sea wall hear it instantly, knowing well what it means…
To the relief of Ifris Lanvaldan, she finds the stout door at the top of the short flight of stairs leads to the bottom level of the lighthouse tower as she suspected – indeed she finds the door is slightly cracked open about a foot, with light visible from within the tower and Anneca clearly visible on the top of the lighthouse tower stairs across from where she peers in. Her words to Anneca Summers are heard, though the recent clanking of metal gears and grinding sound of the sea gate makes conversation somewhat difficult now.
With the lighthouse taken and the wounded rebel clearly outnumbered, there is little he can do but retreat back to reinforcements. Any speech he might have had in the darkness is lost amidst the echoing metal sounds of the sea gate starting to open, that activity now obvious to anyone on the sea wall and well beyond it. He passes by barrels and runs steadily towards the farthest gaslamp, reaching and passing it by the other rebel patrolman to where only the sea wall stretches back to the edge of the fortress harbor.
Fethryth nods "Understood, Sir. We'll bring him in and report for further instructions." She stands up, cracks her neck and heads for the door. This isn't how she expected this day to go, she never would have pegged Hopkins as the kind of man to throw away all common sense on the strength of his feelings; that's more of a surprise than the interrogation by the Noses. Despite his sabotage she hopes they can bring him in without it turning into a brawl.
Mab gives a slight knowing smirk to Fethryth, even as Liam nods to Tobias and opens up the door to the game parlor, revealing a now-empty stairwell beyond. ”I am sure you three will handle the matter with the delicacy and distinction that our Director desires. We will…handle…the documentation of your evidence into the record and deal with all the trappings of bureaucratic paperwork, that I assure you. Though Spencer Hopkins is well-regarded by the senior constables of Indefatigable and Resilience, he is not without his detractors…and any who wish to quarrel with your actions here today shall find themselves at odds with both Director Price-Hill and Assistant Director Cyneburg.”
Mab quips to Fethryth, ”Remember that Hopkins has a grudge against you, so don’t give him fuel to the fire by insulting him or gloating. You never were one for diplomacy or social nuance, Fethryth Teldanona, and I suspect he will not be intimidated by you. Then again, his charm and deceit will not work upon you either. Whatever you think of him, the goal is not for you to entertain him in a duel.”
Liam floats the last sealed letter addressed to Spencer Hopkins directly to his hand, then gives it to Jesselle Wesmere. ”Your knowledge of law, documents and barrister's training will serve you well in this regard, Constable Wesmere. Remember that this is no trial whereupon you must convince the man of the extent of his misdeeds – just deliver the orders and know their legitimacy. We will be ready in case you fail to convince him to heed the order.”
”Just make certain he does, Constables. No one wants blood spilled inside the walls of the R.H.C. compound, amongst its own officers no less. Once he does relinquish his blade to you, the Army guards will take him from there.” Mab smiles and gives them a jaunty salute. ”Good hunting, constables!”
With two entire squads of Risuri First Army guards at the ready in the inner courtyard of the Slate Branch fortress compound, as well as both in the main floor of the HQ level and up the stairwell of the southeast tower, the action against Spencer Hopkins is well beyond the point of return now. No constables or inspectors are present in the main hallways that the three of them walk through, though plenty of “Research & Development” personnel and staff from the secretarial pool stand up and gawk as you pass by. Somewhere upon the grounds are Liam, Mab and Guy, though you cannot discern where they might be or what they look like. For all purposes of intent, it is the trio of constables versus one of the most enigmatic and renowned inspectors that ever held the office…a veteran spy and war hero to boot. Whatever the change of fortunes to each of the constables when they woke up this morning, all three know that the next several minutes could decide much of what happens to them afterwards.
The winding stairs up to the topmost third level of the southeast tower seems like an eternity, with soldiers already taking up positions at the first two levels to squelch any actions by secretaries or support staff that directly serves the Office of Foreign Affairs. The last set of stairs up to the third level is empty. As you move up the final staircase and to the closed door of his personal office, all seems normal to you. There is no reason to knock, no reason to draw this out further. Without preamble the good Constables Wesmere, Utegg and Teldanona open the door and enter the high offices of Chief Inspector Spencer Hopkins.
Hopkins sits at his broad desk of polished and elaborately engraved teak wood, a symbol of his Yerasol plantation tastes, busily scribing a letter upon parchment with a fine inkpen in the modern style. Dressed in his usual R.H.C. field gray uniform with a bandolier of lavishly decorated knife-hilts, his beautifully decorated rapier hilt and high black leather riding boots are symbols of his martial prowess and past. He wears no hat this day, though the man has been found to favor the broad-rimmed and feathered style of knights and nobles of tradition, as opposed to the newer tophats and bowlers seen as so popular in Flint and in trendier areas of academia and middle-class merchant classes. His steel-grey eyes look up at the three of you sharply as you enter in unannounced, the words of harsh reprimand about to utter from the lips of his rugged and handsome face, when he recognizes one of the three constables entering. The sudden return of Fethryth Teldanona alerts him that something is wrong, and so he stands at once from the plush velvet armchair behind his desk, a hand resting instinctively upon his hilt as he points his other hand at them.
”What’s the meaning of this? My orders were clear! Why is Teldanona back from the farm…did Hart put you up to…no she wouldn’t dare be so bold, would she?” His eyes dart to each of them in turn, sizing each of them up in an instant, and then to the letter that Jesselle Wesmere carries in her hands. ”How dare you interrupt my morning’s business! Get. OUT. NOW.” Still glaring at them but sitting back down as if the entire matter was already dismissed in his mind, the inspector's words are clear and unmistakable in their intimidation, carrying the full and practiced authority of the R.H.C. behind them. In all other circumstances those words would send a lesser man or woman scurrying down the stairs in fear for their careers. This day, however, the three constables do not buckle. The standoff begins…
Clearly not used to being confronted in this manner by those of inferior rank, you must impress upon Hopkins that this demands his full attention, and that he has no choice but to take your presence seriously.
Descriptive text follows to describe skill action above and how your character goes about it.
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Tobias maintains composure as Hopkins shouts his orders, reminding himself that the former Inspector is now just a civilian, despite his previous authority, and no longer in a position of power over him.
"I have received no orders from you today sir, and even if I had, I've received other orders that supersede anything you might have given me."
He looks briefly to the other two constables and nods as he takes off his hat and coat, leaving them on a chair in the former Inspectors office. Now dressed only in his full R.H.C. uniform, with his ornate falchion sheathed at his side, he takes a firm stance and stares directly into the eyes of the man he's been sent to arrest.
"What we're about to tell you is of the utmost importance and you would do well to listen to the entirety of it before making any rash decisions."
Anneca pivots back from the top of the stairs as soon as she hears the gears start to open the sea gate. "I'll signal them, but barricade that door!" She moves as fast as someone running at nearly a full sprint despite the limited quarters and sharp turns. She snatches up the gas lamp that illuminates the second floor of the lighthouse and darts up the stairs to the top level. She knows that she has to signal the fleet, and that every moment will count as they reinforce their position. Furthermore, the lighthouse is an important landmark, and she can't extinguish the great fire and mirror atop it without endangering the fleet. She draws the scroll that she was given specifically for this purpose, ready to signal the fleet and draw the oncoming storm of vengeance upon the Duchess.
She emerges onto the top of the lighthouse, wind skating over her short red hair so easily that it doesn't blind her. She looks out over the harbor and out to the sea. The fleet is out there somewhere, but too far or too shielded to see. They will be able to see her, though. For a moment, she holds the entirety of Risuri history in her hands. "This may be the beginning of the end," she whispers to herself before looking down at the scroll and readying herself to cast it. The spotlight turns slowly towards her, casting her shadow far and wide across the bay.
Willem reloads his second barrel, "Gemma don't sabotage the controls just yet just in case there are independent spares. If they attack us soon, it maybe because there are no spares. At which time, we should think about sabotaging the panel." Willem walks across the room and up the stairs, opens the door to the lighthouse, and then stands in the door way for protection, height advantage (on the gatehouse side at least, and to cover both doors with his musket. "Emerson, get your tail in here?! You are exposed outside! Please bar or lock the door after you come in!"
Somewhat perturbed by his longtime friend, he responds in kind. ”Well I would but you just shut the door in my face.” Instead of following Willem and Ifris into the mechanical room, he decides to first heal himself.
He then narrows his eyes and instead of speaking, thinks about what he would like his elemental to do. ’Bring me into the building’ He limps up the stairs and watches as his Stout Assistant flows through stone and stair until it is underneath him. He can feel the ‘ground’ raise slightly as the elemental picks him up and conveys him into the room. It is perhaps the strangest feeling he as ever experienced.
”If everyone one gathers together away from the fallen foes, I can heal us more easily. Perhaps the mechanical room?”
With his superior officer in full retreat, the lone remaining patrolman turns and runs as well onto the seawall, leaving the lighthouse in the hands of the enemy...for now...
Jesselle stood before the former Chief Inspector and almost pitied the man, but remembering not only the severity of the man's crimes but how numerous they were. This was something that he had to know was going to rear its ugly head one day, perhaps not so soon.
"Apologies Mister Hopikins, you cannot dismiss us as we have orders. We would please ask for your full attention and consideration in this matter." Jesselle asks of the man hoping Hopkins might pay attention.
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The Downfall of Inspector Hopkins
Encounter Challenge Round: 1
Goal One: Gain His Full Attention
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Fethryth repeats 'Don't add fuel to the fire. Don't add fuel to the fire' in her head as the other constables speak with Hopkins. She stands at parade rest and plans to keep her big mouth shut, but Jesselle's slip of the tongue causes her to jump in. If she can get him to focus on her, which honestly shouldn't be hard, maybe he'll overlook the slip since he'll be thinking about how much he hates her. It's not a great one but it's the best she's got.
"I understand that we are interrupting you, but it's a very important matter. Constable Wesmere carries a letter for you. We...I...would be very grateful if you listened to her."
Gemma smiles to herself a little at her triumph of opening the seagate.
Huh. That wasn't nearly as hard as I thought! Good on me. Now all we need to do is just hold onto the place.
She calls back to Willem over her shoulder while still looking at the panel, trying to figure out a way to jam the mechanism open without damaging it. "I have no intention of sabotaging the panel. Well...not yet anyway. Probably going to have to take care of my shoulder first before I start breaking things."
Chief Inspector Hopkins sits at his fine desk and simply glares at each of you in turn, his mouth open and scowling, his writing hand holding his inkpen. He doesn't try to dismiss you yet again, nor does he try and ignore you, but it is clear you haven't made the authority of your presence as persuasive or forceful as it needs to be for him to fully grasp the situation he's in...
Clearly not used to being confronted in this manner by those of inferior rank, you must impress upon Hopkins that this demands his full attention, and that he has no choice but to take your presence seriously.
Now that you have his attention, he refutes the charges and authority you bring before him as invalid and unlawful – but it is up to you to prove otherwise!
Though Gemma finds the proper operation of opening (or closing) the sea gate to be fairly easy, the mechanism and control panel seem to be fairly robust and designed well so as to not break or easily jam. All of the levers are stamp-marked, as are the valves and safety catches, with closing the sea gate simply a reversal of the process. Quite intuitive, actually. Furthermore, the levers and valves are quite sturdy and trying to use a knife or hammer would have little effect, if any. Gemma thinks it may be possible, but with the wound at her armpit the visualization of it is just out of her mental grasp for now.
The incredible noise of the sea gate starting to open, with its clanking and grinding of metal sounds, are surely bound to draw attention to the lighthouse from all across Axis. Though they hold the lighthouse and grounds around it, they know it's just a matter of time before the rebels form up a violent response to their efforts. Precious seconds tick by as they work to alert the fleet and shore up their wounds before the battle begins again...
Anneca gets a smile on her face at the last minute. Putting up a flare on the gas lamp might be effective at signaling the fleet - but using the lighthouse itself would send the right message. She wagers that the flame itself should survive the pyrotechnics, even though a lesser flame would be snuffed out. She presses forward with the spell, reaching out into the scroll itself to pull the magic from the theoretical to the actual. She closes her eyes at the last minute, even though she desperately wants to see the explosion of light. Even with her eyes closed, she can see the flare burst into the sky above her through her eyelids. She opens her eyes, knowing that she has to be able to see it. For a moment, the whole of the city and the bay is as light as day. A great smile crosses her face as the light fades, knowing that the fleet will be on its way. She doesn't have the time to savor it, though, as she has to get moving back to hold their position.
She makes it down the stairs faster than a full sprint, even as her magical speed starts to wane. She kneels down at the still-smoking body of the wizard. She mutters to the corpse as she quickly checks the pockets and folds for a wand, scroll, or anything useful. "Got a light?" She realizes that her pistol is still unloaded, having shot at the guards, and takes a few moments to pull out one of the bullets. She stuffs it into the gun and stands up, ready to get the doors jammed with magic. "Stay at the upper window and stop anyone from getting in that way," she says to the elemental servant.
Her magical protections and enhancements begin to break down and degrade, but Anneca knows that there isn't time to restore them. She yanks out the better scroll that will hold the lighthouse door shut. "I'll get that one next, but we'd better get something up to brace the door. We'll be able to get in and out of the main door, but they won't be able to get in. Probably." She draws the magic out, feeling the door seal itself shut. It wouldn't hold back a battering ram, not for long, but it will buy them a fair amount of extra time to get the fleet through the gates.
[/ooc]
Fethryth locks eyes with Constable Hopkins. Two weeks ago and she would have wilted under his harsh glare and left, the proper response of a junior constable when ordered by a superior, but things are different now. Hopkins has endangered the lives of her fellow constables and the success of vital mission. He’s not longer worthy of her deference or respect.
She tries to come up with something firm yet diplomatic but she fails miserably. ”As you said, you had me hauled off to that farm, and yet I’m back here with orders for you. You'd really throw us out without knowing why we're here? You think that's the response of a professional Constable?"
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Tobias sees Fethryth getting aggravated with Hopkins and decides to step in.
"With all due respect sir, Constable Taldanona has a point. We three have never worked together, and in fact have hardly had a chance to learn each others names. Please, wait before you dismiss our purpose, I'm sure you'll find what we have to tell you most interesting."
"Thank you Constable Utegg." She nods to her fellow constable and turns her attention to the former Chief Inspector once again.
"As to our orders, Mister Hopkins. Firstly, you have been relived of your duties as Chief Inspect pending the outcome of any and all charges and accusations that are being levied against you. Next, Mister Hopkins, we are placing you under arrest for the following," she takes a moment to let herself catch a breath for what is coming and the dramatic pause it gives for the reality of the situation sink in for Hopkins. The woman continues listing of all the charges from major to minor over the next few minutes.
Once she is done Jesselle looks at the man before her, "Please consider Mister Hopkins, that many of these charges are not mere breaches of protocol of Royal Homeland Constabulary regulations but are crimes against Risur, and ultimately your oath to the King and Country.