Devil struck hard at the fallen fled fledgling. And again. Leucis fell limp, and Devil searched him, more quickly than thoroughly, then retrieved the Asmodean's blade from where it fell. The instant the blade lingered at Leucis' throat was neither vengeance nor threat, but test. Leucis was out.
And Kyle was at risk.
Devil struck Leucis again, hid the blade behind a crate, and rushed back to Kyle's side. Thundering up the stairs - {The Hound should have returned} {Shut up, mother!} - Devil was silent at Damaia's door - no longer Annie's door -, Devil took it all in a glance. And rushed back out.
Some minutes later, he returned with Leucis and the blade.
Both, largely as he'd found them.
Ive really enjoyed these past few weeks, Tarvi. Id forgotten how fun it is to exchange ideas with someone of a like mind what with everything that's happened with... Edmond... over the past few years.
He chews his lip nervously for a moment.
Listen I hope my... situation... doesn't intimidate you. I see how others here, even now, look at me. I dont mind and I even understand - I've seen those looks many times before but...
He waves his hand beside his head as if swatting away a fly.
It doesn't matter, forget I mentioned it. Tell me again why you became interested in magic.
Brandon listens politely, making several sympathetic observations and even, once, attempting a joke...
...which goes down like a lead balloon. Sadly, Brandon feels Edmonds presence even when his alter ego is not in control. When she politely excuses herself, the alchemist cuts a forlorn figure, finishing his ale alone.
[/sad face]
Tessai is not a diplomat, nor a people's person. She wanders among the others most of the time by herself, and even while she makes sure that both the whiskey and the special wine reach the quartermaster for the band of rebels, she may not even be there when the drinks are consumed.
She is out on the town most of the time, always moving, never stopping as if the citie's heartbeat was her own.
She puts her efforts and contacts to work to find out more about this Council that seems to operate from the shadows - while the others train and make friends, she treks the streets back and forth, gathering intel, thoughts bent on... Revolution!
We rest and ponder our next steps, repair our gear, make friends... But there is something else operating in the Dark that does not stop. Pawns as they may have been, we have struck a good blow against the Bastards, but still... Something bigger is surely afoot, and WE need to anticipate it!
Tessai's mind at this point is focused on what their next steps should be - It is time we assume what we are doing here, instead of drifting along! - she ponders to herself often. Time to plan ahead and decide where we want to take this!
She has not forgotten older reports provided by Janiven, regarding bandits at the city doors. She cannot put her head completely at ease while she knows that the average inhabitant still faces the fear of the Shadow Beasts, or the tyranny of the Hellknioghts, so she patrols, stalking, prowling around town until dusk turns into dangerous night, arriving back at their hideout later and later into the evening.
While around the others, her thoughts are drawn to Janiven - her attitude of almost drawing a schism because of an ideal, in defense of giving the tieflings a chance at redemption had left an impression, and changed her view of the woman - where before she saw and adventurous girl, she now saw something different and it made her curious about her background and her plans for all of this, if there were any.
For those paying attention, Tessai sharing a drink in the corner with Janiven becomes a common sight whenever the tiefling is around.
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Kyle looks at Leucis when Devil brings him back in. "Do you see how your actions hurt others? Do you think about how your actions damage those around you, even those you may care about? Fortunately, with Shelyn's help, the damage you caused will be healed. You tried to rob these good masters," he refers to the other tieflings,"the chance to learn of the inner beauty the possess inside. You have only shown them that they can make a difference and have true beauty."
More than once, Beppo pours a drink for himself and one for Janiven, then sits down to talk to her.
So, what were you up to when we were digging for errant tieflings?Did it get cold out there?
Where did you get that outfit, by the way? Whoever it was, that was one lucky tailor.
He also makes sure to say hello to Yakopulio.
Wanna see my new scars?
Devil is non-plussed by the spittled prophesy, but slaps Leucis at the spit. "Spitting is rude. Do not do it again. You profess your faith. You have that right. Perhaps it was incorrect of us to sit you to a table laden with strange foods, however sweet or nourishing. You clearly have a gorge already full. But spitting is rude. Do not do it again." Devil was not bluffing, nor being diplomatic. He was establishing a boundary, and prepared to enforce it.
To Kyle he said, "A wolf may not even hear the song of a bird, howevermany colors in Her tail. And a birdsong is poor method for treating with wolves. Leave this one to me."
Devil waits for Kyle's assent, then removes Leucis from the room to another nearby. "I would have said I'd have seen it coming, if someone had planned such as you have done. I would have been wrong. You plotted and planned, and... made poisons?, here in this place, without my awareness? I suppose I let myself be blinded in the hope of winning all of you from what I thought was Palaveen's tyranny. But if you are striking, even now, for him... then I am a fool."
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As the priest ponders, he adds, He has completely given himself to the dark lord, Asmadeus. You tried, priest, but the chains of evil have chocked your words out of his heart. He walks out, and returns back in with more of the Black Lotus flower found in Lucius' room. Perhaps the best way to handle is also the most ironic. I know enough about the process to turn these into the same poison he used. I understand if your soul is to pure to want to take the life of even a traitor that would rather see you...and maybe all of us, dead. My soul has no such issues. It is already stained. I will kill Lucius if you so ask, if only to protect all of us.
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BD: Yes, you are a fool!the tiefling spats back at Black Devil. To even be in the same building, much less supporting one who spreads disgusting lies about 'beauty and truth.' I listened as long as I could until I could take no more. You know! You are one of us. When humans speak of 'beauty,' they speak only of themselves...and even then, only of those young in years. They see us as tainted, ugly, and treat us as such. We will ALWAYS be second class. The powerful always rule the weaker!! Only by serving Asmodeus can we obtain that power. You KNOW I'm right!! Let me finish what I started, then with the others, we will form a new group dedicated to us taking our rightful place as true leaders! By service Asmodeus, we secure our own futures and set things right! We will succeed where that fool, Palaveen failed!
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"You're correct. We can never let him escape or hand him over to the watch. Although I may be frail and a priest, I'm not beyond punishing or executing the wicked. I will however let you and the others decide his fate. If you decide that giving him the poison he used against us is his punishment, I will be your blade."
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Damaia's eyes open slightly, as she turns her head. Kyle...don't. You told us that love is a natural part of mortal nature, and while many people don’t understand what it truly means or pervert it to strange ends, love is still the key to their hearts and their souls. You told us that many have redeemed others with this simple fact. You told us... to remember that even the seemingly irredeemable deserve some version of it.
She coughs a bit. Before continuing.
I have done much worse, then he. Certainly my soul is black enough to darken the brightest day. If you feel that he deserves death, then I should be judged the same as well.
Iados just stands there. Confused.
"The priest Grey is sincere. I agree, the twittering of a songbird can become tiresome. And Asmodeus does appear ascendant, here in Cheliax. And we will always be second in the humans' hearts, if not fifth. But none of that can matter. I am pledged to the cause that he is pledged to. And so, I am pledged to him. As I pledged to the defense of you and your fellows, and dared our leadership to come dig us out." Devil grins, and his eyes widen. "I said, [i]'If you come for us, you had better bring the demon.' He didn't reply." Devil waxes melancholy. "It would have been a glorious fight. And I would have stood beside you, and fought, and killed, and died. Because I said I would. But that didn't happen. I didn't kill or die, defending the hope I thought we'd given you. Instead, you proved me a fool, and thank you; I will try not to consider myself wise in future. And you attacked someone under my protection, and almost killed another, under my protection. Only almost. But you did your best. Worst? Most? You did your most. And now I have to do my... most. How can I stop you? How can I turn your course, eliminate the threat you pose, the mayhem you propose, the murder you purpose?"
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Indeed, how? He replies. Perhaps by spilling my blood, yes? For you and I both know the watch, or even the HellKnights won't bother to follow up on another dead tiefling, will they? You are willing to die for what you believe is the truth, Devil. Do you think I was prepared when I committed my blade? He looks in Black Devil's eyes. If you strike, Black Devil, strike true. For if you miss, I will not show you the same quarter you have shown me. If you strike at me, and I live, I will plan out your death as if you were one of my sworn enemies. There will be no exchange of words. No discussion. Your blood will run in the name as Asmodeus!
Devil kills Leucis. A strike to the temple, clustered fingers to the throat. "I don't doubt it. But I was already your sworn enemy.", he says, rising from the kill, to see Vethamer at the door. An empty instant passes.
"I hope you heard it all.", Devil says to Vethamer. "If you understand it", Devil says, leaving the room, "Explain it to me."
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If there's a reaction in the spellcaster's face, you have a hard time finding it.
He was clearly set against what you...what we are trying to accomplish here. He set yourself as your enemy and he paid the price. He learned nothing from Palaveen's death. Pity. I desire change as well... a day when we are no longer beneath the heels of human masters. But, I no longer see things the way he does. We cannot fight hellfire with hellfire and expect to win. I cannot say that I fully embrace the ways of Shelyn, but I turned my back on Asmodeus when Palaveen fell.
He drops the black lotus at Black Devil's feet. I leave these to you. I see no use for them now.
Moving to some diplomacy action
During some of the evening dining meals at the temple, or early in the morning during prep work, Beppo makes it a point to talk with Janiven.
So, what were you up to when we were digging for errant tieflings?Did it get cold out there?
Cold? Naaa. I entertained myself questioning them while making sure the others were keeping an eye open and manning the traps. I really think they're ready for change. Hopefully, Kyle and Black Devil can show them the way.
Where did you get that outfit, by the way? Whoever it was, that was one lucky tailor.
She laughs. Ok. Whey don't you slow down on those drinks before you say something you regret. Or maybe you better start giving me some!
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Black Devil returns to the citadel base some nights and/or meets up with Mathalen in the mornings to discuss training. He explains his purposes for the next few weeks in focusing on the tieflings, but wants to assure her that he has not forgotten her training in the process.
I understand, teacher. I appreciate what you have done, and that you're taking time to impart wisdom to me as you can. Janiven explained the importance of recruiting the tieflings to our side, though I get the feeling that Arael is skeptical, at best. If anyone can show them, I believe you can.
She continues to train on what BD has given her, and though she doesn't join the tieflings, she learns what she can glean from him, nontheless.
Mataleen's learns a little more. Her relationship with Devil increases by 2.
During a few morning sessions on the third week, she cannot help but notice that her teacher is distant, at best.
Teacher, it is clear you are bothered by the recent events. I heard from others what transpired. I know I am but a student, but is there anything I can do to help?
She reaches out with her hand, touching his.
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I haven't forgotten about you, Tessai... I ran out of time today...but I'll knock it out tonight or tomorrow. If there is anyone else who hasn't taken their actions, or I somehow missed it and did not resolve, speak up now. Expect a more follow up from the Tiefling ordeal, as well, tomorrow. Hopefully by Wednesday, we move onto the next big thing.
If there's a reaction in the spellcaster's face, you have a hard time finding it.
"He was clearly set against what you...what we are trying to accomplish here. He set yourself as your enemy and he paid the price. He learned nothing from Palaveen's death. Pity. I desire change as well... a day when we are no longer beneath the heels of human masters. But, I no longer see things the way he does. We cannot fight hellfire with hellfire and expect to win. I cannot say that I fully embrace the ways of Shelyn, but I turned my back on Asmodeus when Palaveen fell."
Devil sighs tiredly. "I do not wish to argue these points. Another day, if they intrigue you, perhaps. But firstly, I don't feel I'm any more under anyone's heel than any other citizen of Cheliax. Rather, I'm freer, or deluded of it, because I'm striving and hopeful. And secondly, we are not a Shelynite mission, nor group. Although we are, the priest's congregation, and I am in the choir, and Her blessings through him have brought us all clarity and comfort. Leucis would call that weakness, but oaks as well as roses turn their leaves toward the warmth of the sun."
He drops the black lotus at Black Devil's feet. "I leave these to you. I see no use for them now."
"Soak them in vinegar, if that will destroy their poison.", Devil says, "And if we leave him with his blade, it's blood and remaining taint, and the petals, to explain why he died, we won't need a note."
Heading back to Kyle and Damaia, Devil added, "But one of those wooden coins might be proper."
If anyone can show them, I believe you can.
Grinning, Devil jokes, "I believe I can, too. But I am happy to have Grey as part of it. I have no practice leading any soul but my own. And judging by my own, little talent for it." He smiles gently. "And thank you."
During a few morning sessions on the third week, she cannot help but notice that her teacher is distant, at best.
Teacher, it is clear you are bothered by the recent events. I heard from others what transpired. I know I am but a student, but is there anything I can do to help?
She reaches out with her hand, touching his.
Devil takes her hand in his own, gently. He says nothing, but closes his golden eyes, his face a mask of pain. In a moment, he is sobbing.
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Tarvi looks a little confused at first, and then her eyes light up. Well, I've always been with rich parents. They own the Glitter Palace jewelry store on the east side of the city. They've had me working there in between my studies since I was a teenager. When I was 14, an old tiefling brought in a magic ring to sell. With it, he could make an illusionary duplicate of himself. He showed us how it work, but my parents refused to buy it off of him, despite his low asking price. But, I was curious. Intrigued, even! I wanted to learn more about magic and magic items.
I started to grab every book I could on the subject, and teach myself as much as I could. For, despite my pleading, my parents would not pay for professional magic training. They felt that magic had no place in the family business. They tried to distract me by finding suitors. They were trying to marry me off! That just made me more upset. Instead of going to the store after my studies, I would often go to the library. I often vented to the librarian there, who I believe is a friend of Janiven. Janiven later approached me and told me that if I helped this group out, that she would find opportunities for me to learn real magic.
At first, when she introduced you to me, I had my doubts. And you were talking so fast those first couple of weeks, I couldn't understand a word of what you were saying! But now, it's starting to click. You really do know about REAL magic. I really appreciate what you are teaching me. And if I can help you and your friends with magic support or, better yet, real magic items in the future, I would be very happy to do so!
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Name- Class- Level- Relationships
Amaya Bard? 0.00- Black Devil: 3, Aemon: 2
Emolos Fighter 1.25- Beppo: 4
Fiosa Cleric 1.00- Kyle: 2
Gorvio ???-
Larko Ranger 1.50- Aemon: 5
Mathalen Monk?- 0.75 Black Devil: 4
Scalvo ???-
Tarvi Wizard 1.00- Brandon: 5
Vitti ??? -
Yakopulio Rogue 1.25- Beppo: 2, Corellon: 3
Janiven Ranger 3.00- Beppo: 2
Arael Cleric 3.00- "Will no one be my friend?" :P
At the end of the second week, news comes to the temple base about the Tieflings attempted murder and subsequent death. Arael calls Janiven into the private room. Those outside hear the remnants of a rather LOUD conversation taking place.
As Tessai listens to the people, she hears the following rumors.
* People are less afraid of Shadow Beasts. In the last few weeks, there have been only a few reported incidents. Normally, there averages one each night.
* People are beginning to talk about the Shades of Grey. This has raised the attention of the Order of the Rack, who lives to sniff out any hint of rebellion.
* Brigand attacks outside the town have increased. It is rumored that one of the more minor Hellknight orders were dispatched to investigate, but never came back.
* One cocked man with a limp says that the brigand leader is actually an elf who possesses a powerful, talking helm.
* Some people are beginning to talk about the upcoming play, The Sixfold Trial of Larazod.. Apparently, Mayor Arvanxi has given the OK to allow a full and uncut version of the play to happen within the month.
Tessai spends some time with Janiven, to find out more about her background and plans moving forward.
Well, like most, I've had a few family members taken by Hellknights, inquisitors, etc. We tend to run at the mouth, we do. And that tends to get us into trouble ore times than not. My father made sure that each of us was well trained in urban combat because of that...and the shadow beasts. He was taken for conspiracy when I was 12.
Nearly a decade later, I was in a tavern with my sister and some friends. I had a few drinks, and I was probably speaking a little louder than I should about what I really thought of the church and government. Little did I know that there was a couple of inquisitors in there. They came to grab me, by my sister claimed it was she who made those claims. Before I could counter, they drug her out. We never saw her again.
For the next year, I struggled with depression. I always had a hard time making or keeping friends. You never know when someone is going to be taken from you, here...so I never allowed anyone to get close. But, one day in a tavern, drinking my worries away, a half-elf sat next to me. He offered offered me a long-term position at his side as a consultant and advisor. He said he had grand plans to bring honor and tradition back to Cheliax, and particularly to Westcrown. As a worshiper
of Iomedae, he has long regretted how Cheliax fell from Aroden’s teachings to the infernal, and wants nothing more than to see a reversal of that fate, but with Aroden’s inheritor, Iomedae installed as the city’s guardian and patron deity instead.
He had heard about what happened to my sister. He found out more about my family, and the bravery that drove her to do what she did. He said he recognized in me the value of having a native Wiscrani on his side—my knowledge of the city’s layout made me an ideal choice for a “second-in-command” to aid him in his goal.. Of course, that man was Arael.
Arael was idealistic enough to remind me of my father. He certainly wanted to see change like him. However, where my father always seemed to do whatever struck him as right at any given moment, Arael was...and is...much more methodical. Arael would rather see Westcrown changed from the inside out. The idea of inspiring the people to demand change, rather than fighting the controlling powers head on was something I had never heard of before. It inspired me. For the first time, I had a solid direction for the hope that my family had taught me years ago... a better place to live and raise our future generations.
That's how I got here. Arael provides the direction, and I run the day to day operation. I give him advice, and point out alternatives. As I said, Arael's approach is completely different than my own. He seeks to work within the constraints of the law, an to effect change from within the system. But, given that the many attempts to create those changes directly from outside have completely failed, including a number of my own family being taken in, I decided to give Arael's approach a shot. That doesn't mean we don't have the occasional argument.
She smiles, and puts down her drink.
But, make no mistake, I respect that man. He may come across as a rigid jack-ass sometimes, and he is committed to the people of this city. He's gotten himself in trouble a couple of times, with the Rack. But, he did it doing what he thought was right. Just like my dad and sister. Just like we've been doing.
She takes another sip and looks at Tessai.
He's a little hard to read sometimes. I blame his elven half. But trust me, he absolutely respects you and the team for what you've done. The Shades of Grey would not be making the impact they are without you. And he knows that sometimes, he has to bend. It's hard for him, as you saw with the Tiefling decision. But he did bend. If he comes across angry, its only because he's concerned.
When Tessai asks about where we go from here...
We continue to lay low for a little while longer. You all did a great job with the Bastards, and I can see the change in the people here. I'm sure you do, too. Arael is planning our next big thing, I'm sure of it. I asked him about it, but he says that he doesn't want to tell me until he knows for sure that he's got solid information. Doesn't want to get our hopes up. Kinda ironic, coming from him.
Magic and science are so intertwined it's difficult to know where one ends and the other begins. At least, that's how t is for me. Listen,if it'll help get you on your way...
He reluctantly hands over his formula book.
That is everything I've learned over the past 8 years about medicine and magic. There's about two hundred pages in there that look like they are in different handwriting - ignore those. Just concentrate on the part about brewing potions. If you're interested in crafting magic items, even if potions aren't your thing there's some commonality in the incantations required. Just... please be careful with it!
The final week Brandon wanders about a little listless. He didn't realise how much he missed the book until he didn't have it, even just to flick through whilst everyone talked around him.
He overhears the argument between Arael and Janiven and after she leaves he ducks into the room
Arael. I just wanted to apologise for when we came back with the Tieflings. Springing them on you like that and now this has happened. Not all of them are evil. Or if they are I think they can change. I have to believe that. Anyway. I'll leave you to it.
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Tarvi is clearly touched by Brandon's gesture. As she scans through some of the pages, she exclaims. Oh, wow. That's so generous of you! I could spend years just pouring over all the information here! It takes her a minute to realize what she just implied. I mean, I wouldn't dare to ask that but yes, I will borrow it for a while and see what I can learn!
Suddenly, a look of realization comes across her face. She looks into Brandon's eyes.
Wait, we've been talking magic non stop for over a month. I just realized how little I know about you. Tell me more, Brandon.
As Brandon walks into he sees Arael finishing a prayer.
Arael. I just wanted to apologise for when we came back with the Tieflings. Springing them on you like that and now this has happened. Not all of them are evil. Or if they are I think they can change. I have to believe that. Anyway. I'll leave you to it.
Arael interjects before Brandon can leave.
And I apologize for coming across a bit...strong. His jaw tightens up. I just worry... that... He pauses for a moment, thinking about what to say next.
I have little doubt that some of them are truly repentant. Iomodae does teach us that she forgives those who work hard to atone for the sins of the past. However, she also teaches consequences for actions.
He pauses, affixing his eyes on Brandon. Those tieflings either committed murder, or were accomplices. There are laws on the books that dictated punishments for those offenses. Furthermore, I don't know any one us who would argue that those offenses are morally wrong as well. Society made those laws, and society put the leaders we have in power. Yet, through our actions, we have absolved them of those wrongs. We have circumvented the processes put into place. We have put ourselves above those rulers. And, as a direct result, an innocent priest was almost killed. We are directly responsible if any of them commit further atrocities.
I believe some of them may change. I just don't think we have the authority to absolve them of their debt to society. Do you?
During a quiet moment Corellon approaches Vitti as he is cleaning up from one of the group's dinners, offereing to lend a hand ... as they move past the opening pleasantries, he inquires "So what drew you to this clan? have you found what you were looking for?"
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The rogue approaches the green haired man, who seems to keep mostly to himself as he works on various wood carvings when he is around. From what you understand, most days he's usually growing or catching food. He helps supply the Shades with foodstock.
Well, its no secret to anyone in Westcrown that I draw my existence from the earth... as we all do. Unlike most of the heathen in the city, I just remember that fact, and respect nature as she deserves. I don't take more than I need to survive.
I don't much care for these large cities and stuff, but just like most others species, we depend on each other for our existence. Even woodsman like myself need support from the local government to deal with savages, and evil creatures that threaten our wildlife.
The problem is, we receive nearly no help at all out there. The blasted Hellknights are too busy sniffin' out problems in the city to help us with the true problems outside of the walls!
The stops carving for a minute, and raises an eye at Corellon. There's an uncomfortable silence for a moment, when he suddenly continues.
Janiven told me that if their little underground movement is successful, some of that will change. I'm not seeing that yet. Just the other day, I found several animals butchered...BUTCHERED, I say. Their carcasses just LYING out in the middle of the forest. It was ghastly. Terrible! I found large prints leading to a thick part of the woods. I dared not go any further lest ol' Vetti be its next victim. I asked Janiven to lend me a few boys to go check it out, but she says we're stretched thin at the moment...with the tieflings and training going on an all.
But, mark my words. What I was was not natural. There some evil force at work out there. Maybe VOODOO magic! Or evil monsters. Something! Hmf.
He goes back to carving furiously. Corellon sits there for a moment, and as he turns to get up, Vetti stops.
Hey. Thanks for listening. I feel like no one's even done that for me since I've moved into town, outside of Janiven.
Class Level Relationships
Amaya Bard? 0.50 Black Devil: 3, Aemon: 2
Emolos Fighter 1.25 Beppo: 4
Fiosa Cleric 1.00 Kyle: 2
Gorvio ??? 0.50
Larko Ranger 1.50 Aemon: 5
Mathalen Monk 0.75 Black Devil: 4
Scalvo ??? 0.50
Tarvi Wizard 1.00 Brandon: 6
Vitti Druid? 0.50 Corellon: 3
Yakopulio Rogue 1.25 Beppo: 2, Corellon: 3
Janiven Ranger 3.00 Beppo: 2
Arael Cleric 3.00 Brandon: 1
Vethamer Sorcerer 1.00 Kyle: 2; BD: 1
Iados Fighter 1.00 Kyle: 2; BD 1
Damaia Rogue 1.00 Kyle: 4; BD -1
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(Back over at the Tiefling hideaway.)
The morning after the incident, Damaia calls for Kyle.
Good morning, she says.
How are you, Kyle asks. Better, I guess....I heard what happened to Lucius. Black Devil killed him. I guess some sins can't be forgiven, huh?
Her question hits like a hammer and Kyle searches for a reply...
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Kyle looks solemn and Damaia's concern. "Black Devil didn't kill Lucius for his past sins. Lucius was against our cause in such a way as to try to destroy what we work for. We remorse in his death. The decision was not an easy one. We tried to save him, we gave him a chance to learn and work with us but he was deaf to our words." He takes Damaia's hands in his own.
"You're heart is not misplaced. It is a good thing to want things to be different. If only we could have events happen the way we desire. All races of Westcrown would treat each other with equal respect and everyone's differences regarded with esteem."
He lifts Damaia's face so she could look into his eyes. "The harsh truth is that some people don't respect our differences. Some will work to diminish rights of those that aren't the same as them. We must be vigilant to educate those filled with hatred to see the beauty in our differences. It was our wish to have Lucius help us educate others. Instead, his soul was tormented and angry and not willing to help. He wanted only to hurt our efforts. Since he wasn't willing to work with us, we couldn't take further responsibility for him. We couldn't free him, nor could we turn him into the watch.
Kyle looks back to her hands in his. "I wish I could trust him to not try something again. As strong as my will, I can't change his behavior. I almost lost you through his actions. If it was to happen again and we were to lose you or someone else, I couldn't forgive myself. So please don't be angry with Black. He did it to protect us. It was not his desire to do so. His wish for things to have been different rivals our own."
(Back over at the Tiefling hideaway.)
The morning after the incident, Damaia calls for Kyle.
Good morning, she says.
How are you, Kyle asks. Better, I guess....I heard what happened to Lucius. Black Devil killed him. I guess some sins can't be forgiven, huh?
Her question hits like a hammer and Kyle searches for a reply...
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I think...I understand, she replies. But its hard when we kill one of our own. I like to think that maybe he could have been redeemed.
By the end of the third week, Damaia has completely healed and rejoins the training. She seems more distant from Black Devil than before, but continues to show strong interest in Kyle's lessons. Kyle is clearly too distracted by those events to do a great job teaching or understanding where his students stand.
Black Devil, however, committed to not making the same mistake of not seeing a traitor among the ranks. He watches them verly closely (24 total from previous page). His assessment...
Damaia[/] is perhaps the most taken with Kyle's teachings. While she's resentful towards Devil for what he did, it's clear that she's wholeheartedly bought into the teachings of Sheyln. On the other end of the spectrum, [i]Vethamer does not seem to buy into the religion aspect of all. Clearly, Vethamer cares about the future of his kind. He says he joined Pavaleen originally to free others of their schackles and prejudice by force. Since its failed, it seems he's willing to buy into Arael's vision in the hopes that it will improve the tieflings' position in society overall... partly because its clear that the Shades have something more powerful here. Iados is in between. He seems to buy into certain aspects of Kyle's teaching, but some aspects clearly confuse him. He's certainly seems happy here, but he also seems to be restless at times.
At the end of the third week, Arael visits.
Arael enters unannounced, though Black Devil did hear the approach and appropriate knock sign upon entrance. After a few greeting, he asks to see the tieflings.
He talks with each of them for a few minutes, and then asks to speak with Kyle and Black Devil alone.
After they are pulled aside, he asks. I apologize for not coming earlier to visit. I've been working on something very important, and it involves all of you.
He pauses for a moment. His jaw squares up.
Black Devil, thank you for doing what needed to be done to maintain the secrecy and protection of the other members. I'm sure it was not easy.
He eases up a little. We are about ready to move forward, but before I can arrange a meeting, I needed to find out how the other tieflings are doing. I'm afraid that this next mission may take up significant portions of your time. So, I need to know where we stand with them. What are your opinions? Have the abandoned their ways? More importantly, do you trust them?
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Black Devil's last week of training went rather well. And Vethamer seems to respect Black Devil more after the actions that transpired.
Class Level Relationships
Amaya- Bard?-- 0.50 --Black Devil: 3, Aemon: 2
Emolos- Fighter-- 1.25 --Beppo: 4
Fiosa- Cleric-- 1.00 --Kyle: 2
Gorvio- ???-- 0.50
Larko- Ranger-- 1.50 --Aemon: 5
Mathalen- Monk-- 0.75 --Black Devil: 4
Scalvo- ???-- 0.50
Tarvi- Wizard-- 1.00 --Brandon: 6
Vitti- Druid?-- 0.50 --Corellon: 3
Yakopulio- Rogue-- 1.25 --Beppo: 2, Corellon: 3
Janiven- Ranger-- 3.00 --Beppo: 2
Arael- Cleric-- 3.00 --Brandon: 1
Vethamer- Sorcerer-- 1.25 --Kyle: 3, BD: 4
Iados- Fighter-- 1.25 --Kyle: 3, BD: 2
Damaia- Rogue-- 1.25 --Kyle: 5, BD: 0
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Kyle answers Arael, "I believe I have made great progress with Damaia. Her desire to learn is inspiring and her willingness to defend me against Lucius is testimony to her. Vethamer seems to follow as well. He was helpful during the Lucius incident, but I'm not convinced his whole heart is with us yet. I can't get a reading on Iados. He has been very quiet. He was shocked by Lucius' actions so I'm convinced of his innocence, but I can't say where he stands."