Lilly checks her things. Getting out her back pack and seeing she has what she needs in it, then puts the things that would give away who she is into her hidden pouch
She then makes her way to the prison in her best dress and winter clothing.
As Gogrin asked as to the Dragon-Kin's meaning, she said, "אני בטוח שאני לא יודע."
At her love's request, the Arcanist placed a hand upon the trunk of the tree.
Teeth snapped shut as she kept her thoughts to herself when he spoke of rulership being fun. Eyes narrowed slightly.
When he spoke of the magics of the tree she would wait for what he had to say. While waiting she would turn and walk over to the man that had first drawn his sword and she stood beside him. The side with the scar over her eye towards him.
Speaking softly, at a whisper. "You were good to step up and want to defend your traditions. Next time, don't be so hasty to pull a sword. If you have the time, find out why something is done first. Don't let your first reaction be violence but be prepared for violence at all times. Listen, one day you will feel true fear. Know a true enemy. When that day comes, remember. Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the judgement that something is more important than fear."
She would turn and step away before walking to look each of them over then turns to Alexis.
"Should I tell Suzume that you won't be meeting him before the feast to train with him? Since you will be busy keeping Gogrin and Telula protected. I should get going. Please, when they find out something have them send a message to the wall."
With this she turned and walked to the nearest building and climbed up the side of it using just her arms before climbing up on the roof. Running to the other side she took off.
As Lilly walked up to the prison gates the same guards were there as they were last night. They looked at one another with a grin before guiding Lilly at a safe and untouched distance to the entrance of the Prison.
The door opened immediately without any knock- it was clear the Warden had given anxious instructions pending her arrival.
Another guard stood inside, near the door that shouting could be heard from the night before. He nodded to the stairs Up you go, then, Miss Lilly. Warden Franklin has been expecting you.
As Telula felt the heart beat of the Angel-Oak with her detect magic, a certain and unexpected chill ran down her spine ...Heartbeat?
This was nothing like her first night here, as she felt strong and immense magics and auras everywhere under the full moon. No- this was different, strange, as if the Angel-Oak was trying to operate on its own, but could not.
The Angel-Oak Tree pulsed as they both stood there- one small wave, one medium wave, one large wave, one explosive wave, and then one small wave again.
Gogrin gave Telula a look of uncertainty This is... Unexpected. The aura isn't weaker, it is pulsating, like when I concentrate lightning to my finger tips. We may need to go get the Mother after all... Damn.
Julian went rolling across the black soil of the road they all stood on, but Benny was almost completely knocked out from the hit as Suzume finished both of them in a matter of seconds and two strokes of his sword. The people went wild as Rita slowly stood back up with a grin at Suzume. Many were throwing silver pieces and gold into the circle they had made as payment for the morning entertainment.
As the day went on, and the other soldiers were healed, Suzume had "Bethany" collect the silver and gold from the ground, and, after it was counted, came up that Master Suzume's little performance had made 60 GP for him to collect.
Rita, Marco, Julian and Benny then began to practice routes they could walk as a few other people approached Master Suzume once the morning excitement had calmed down.
They were four girls, and one was a girl named "Alex" Master Suzume- do you think you could make me as strong as Councilor Alexis???
Just as this question was asked, while the sun was becoming quite high up in the sky, a familiar "thumpf" and "ooooh" sounded behind Suzume-
It was Sealith, back from her flight with Vasu last night.
As Sealith glided and thumped her wings against the gentle winds of the higher altitudes she could start to see the original design of 42. It was clear that the civilization actually started at the Angel-Oak- that is where it was most like a city and a vast concentration of homes were located.
As she flew deeper into the South East Quadrant she saw two distinct things- one was that a majority of homes were along the black soil path the group had marched along to the Angel Oak their first day here. Behind a few rows of houses going inwards on the large square were the places of business, with the cart shops along either side of the black soil road.
The inner section of the square, which she cut across to keep her time of flight and gliding as small as possible, was a series of what was most likely mines, training grounds for the so recently disbanded Sons of Terrak, and a few farms. The unfortunate thing was that these lands appeared to be wild and untamed outside of training exercise purposes, and the only things she saw resembling a farm only had livestock, with the Angel-Oak growing most vegetable and fruit produce on people's very homes.
There was one final thing Sealith saw that made her wonder what exactly it was all about, and that was that the buildings, as she flew deeper into the South East Quadrant, got bigger, as well as the places of business.
If she had to make a guess- it'd be that the South-East Quadrant was where a majority of the wealthy went in 42. It would make sense, then, finally, why the first attack over the wall was there, and why the attacker's would have known that; Matthias, after all, was a native before he became a traitor.
She heads up the steps slowly taking 10 to memeirse the labyrinth as he gos.
As Sealith looked over the city, she noticed the various disparities and shifting. While not unusual, it told her many things. None of it good for the city at large.
As she straightened she looked around and nodded to Suzume. "I see you have been beating in lessons. How goes it?" Her eyes swept the crowd and the young woman standing in front of Suzume as her wings folded up.
Vasu's eyes lit up at the sight of the raven in the small cage. She gingerly set the wire box on a wooden crate, and kneeled down so that she would be at eye level with the ebony bird. It stared back at her, its beak hanging slightly open. Vasu looked back at the young woman.
She looked back at the raven with adoration, and let out a low whistle followed by several soft grumbles produced deep in her chest. The meaning behind her gentle avian speech was little more than the most basic of concepts, but between birds, the speech was like poetry. The universal tongue of the avians communicated the most dire of dangers and most joyous of sensations with brief twitters and hums that could be understood by all of feathered kind. The primal language would seem silly to those that only understood its surface meaning, but to the birds, the method of communication was a sacred tie to their common roots.
Month 1, Day 6, 9am
The Angel Oak was beating a pulse almost exactly like an electric current- smaller and smaller waves boosted by one large wave of energy. It was a mistake to call it a heart beat- no, it reminded Telula more of her most recent nightmare in the hospital that Gogrin was waiting for her to awake in- each wave made of tiny strands of directed energy scrambling like snakes to still fuel everything in the city.
Telula could not entirely tell just how long the Angel-Oak would be able to keep this up, but it would not be long until the Angel Oak itself started dying- maybe a month, maybe just under a year, but longer than a week or two.
Once the Angel Oak started dying it would be as if it had never existed, and the yellow strands of grass she saw on the black soil road to the tree would wither and become brown.
The City of 42 would be in danger of food shortages and, most likely, extreme bouts of revolting and anger well before the group could even retrieve the Llieldasine or meet with the Frost Giant King.
Gogrin took her hand with a whisper Can you feel it, my little Ring?
As Lilly reaches the very top of the tall, cold, draftless Prison she sees the Warden watching her as she makes it up the last flight of stairs. He takes her hand gently before kissing it and then her cheek I assure you, no one will be ruining our privacy today. Come, come. I trust you told your family everything? That accomodations can be made?
Warden allowed Lilly into the room where she looked over the design of the large open living room in the corner between two narrow hallways- something told her that somewhere there was a viewing room, most likely, to the labyrinth at the very bottom of the prison.
If only she could find the secret entrance to it.
The Raven clucked with a half smile back at Vasu Food? I like food. You are like me. You speak like me- smell like me. Are you... me?
The Raven gave a slight nuzzle into Vasu as it asked these things while Regina handed Vasu the supplies requested
The girl squeed with a few others as she walked away, leaving Suzume and Sealith to talk as the Mother stumbled out from the other inn, wiping the morning tiredness from her eyes as she did so with Chelya and Binsk playing around with one another not too far off.
Seeing Suzume and Sealith she put up a large grin as her green hair whipped back and forth beneath the sun Hello Suzume! Good morning Sealith!
She lets him kiss her
"yes, yes I have told them."
She says off hand, as if it did not matter.
Then she looks around the large space stopping from time to time
to check thing, as if admiring.
"Your such a powerful man, I asked around, they say your on the counsel for the whole city."
He he, so naive for your disposition, my beautiful Lilly- did you really think that I would run a place like this, with the men like them that I have outside my facility, without power?
I think you knew I had some sort of power- I think... The Warden got closer and more intimate to Lilly as he spoke That you like that I have power.
What if I told you that maybe... perhaps... I had a plan... for MORE power?
Gogrin's face became grim as he shook his head, nervously stroking his beard as he replied in Dwarven This is not good.... I... S%~#. We will need to cancel the feastivities, I think. I can NOT tell the Lords and Ladies of 42 that after 400 years of prosperity, or so says the history books, that it might all go up in smoke.
We will have to re-work the city... Re-plan it. I won't be able to study anymore.
Gogrin whistled to Alexis and the Royal Guard and waved them over, returning to common I need you, you, you, and you, to immediately fetch the Councilors Warden Franklin, High Priest Regal, Aram, and the Mother with Sealith down in the South East Quadrant. When you have found them, you tell them that the festivities are to be closed, post-poned, and I need them all to come to my residence tomorrow instead, at any time.
They are free to bring guests, but you, HEY, look at me boy- you stay with them on there way up here.
Alexis came over to Gogrin as the four royal guards immediately dispersed to the nearest stables to go to their assigned places Ummm.... Gogrin? Is there a reason you just used those four as messenger boys?
Gogrin sighed Yes, because, unfortunately, Alexis- Gogrin grabbed the Majar's hand and squeezed tightly I am going to have to be King instead of Host tomorrow. Will you escort Telula and I back to my home, and stay with us, then? There has become a... matter of importance that came up.
Gogrin looked back at his little Ring with a hopeful smile as he spoke in her ear in Dwarven I am glad I have someone as skilled in the arcane arts as you with me at this time. And to think... I was going to show you the inside of the Angel Oak, heh heh.
After a quick peck on the cheek, she added, "חוץ מזה, אתה תמיד יכול להראות לי מאוחר יותר."
She did not move as he came close but closed her eyes and breathed more deeply as if excited.
"I find... power.. exciting, telling others what to do, having control. Who wants to order sheep around when you can order real breathing beings"
She snaps a look at him, and her eyes narrow.
"When I was asking about I heard, stores... Stores about what this 'Mother' person, what she got up-to with her 'pets', sick if you asked me. You know what I think, I think this city don-t mo animal loving mother"
She places her hands on his chest looking deep into his eyes, Then she looks back up with him, then says looking round as if others where looking on. Then in a low voice says.
"I think this place needs a someone to show them that kind of thing is sick. It needs as strong hand, someone like a King say, not some silly council of animal lovers. A lord to rule them better."
She looks coy when she says this, looking down, as if she may have pushed her luck in asking for to much power for herself.
"A powerful man would have plans to be the king of all, and where there is a kind...there always needs to be a queen"
No she looks lustful like the thought of him and power where affecting her.
"I want them to see me, bow to me, respect and fear me, you give me that and I will do anything for you"
She placed her hand on his grain.
"and I don't just mean this, my lord, a true Queen knows how to protect her own."
She gives him a playful tug.
Watching the girl squeal in delight she looked at him. "Have you chosen a mate also?" She asked in curiosity. "Either way, Gogrin is planning on having a grand feast tomorrow night. He wishes us to be there. Held on top of the vault with the stone tree. This city is not prepared for a winter. The fields lie fallow and overgrown. They have become dependant on the tree. I have an idea but I would need to talk with Telula when she isn't with her mate to see if she has any knowledge of my idea."Looking at everyone around them her attention was diverted by Elyse.
Frowning."Why are you just now waking up? It is past high sun."
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"That would be fine, Sealith. While they are getting margianally better at fighting, they're still a rowdy lot, and I do not think I am the best option to teach them any sort of discipline. I've been wandering around as a Ronin for too long."
"Mate? She's a bit young, don't you think?" He scratched at the back of his head. "Wait... Telula has a mate? When did this happen? I mean, from what I understand of the human idea of physical attraction, she has a symetrical face and a fit body, but damn, that was quick. How attractivve is she?"
He bowed. "Hello, Ellyse-San." He turned to take a guess at Sealith's question. "Perhaps binge-drinking."
Gogrin scrambled around the home as he greeted Archimedes with a few seeds, rushing into his study-Yes yes, sorry, I'm sorry- will you help me find- yes! Yes!
Gogrin began to rapidly flip through a series of books Alexis! Will you see to it that the Vault's finances are in order? I will need to stop by there today and ensure every last piece of gold is in our vault- we are going to need it.
Gogrin dismissed Alexis as he had the rest of the Royal Escorts sit quietly on guard duty throughout his house. Sitting Telula down he spoke in Dwarven All we can do for now is study the city's layout, and for you to continue studying Matthias. In a bit we will leave for the Vault, if you'd like to come with me. I'll have to cancel the feast that was planned for tomorrow night and instead bring everyone in for strategy- we have to solve this crisis of the Angel Oak slowing down before the commoners begin to realize what is happening.
Gogrin continued pacing about, combing rapidly and furiously through books.
The Warden grinned A silly council of animal lovers. I could not have said it better myself, Lilly.
He waved Lilly over to a map of all of 42 that he had on a large sheet of papyrus in old ink I have collected old historical items of 42's heritage for quite some time, but this, this is the most useful of all of them. A map of the strongest roots of the Angel Oak, and of all the plots in this great city.
Unfortunately- The Warden's finger fell on the North East plot of the map It would appear that the second the issues and drama concerning the Mother started, gangs began to rise up in the poorest of the four quadrants. Some of it is already burned from when Matthias originally left 42 with his own gang, "Revelation."
I seek to restore that sector of the North East, and then turn it upon the rest of 42 until they recognize my strength, my power, and more importantly, my right to rule over that sorcery filled buffoon, Gogrin.
We have had passive queens and kings, Mothers and Fathers, nearly since this town began.
I believe it is finally time for a change, and with the Mother no longer operating the Angel-Oak, for now, at least- I have the perfect excuse to take over the North East as my own sub-plot.
The Warden turned to Lilly What do you think the best way would be, to take over a criminally run, poverty filled, area, Lilly?
The Mother sighed as she kicked around gently at the black soil I um... I didn't sleep very well, last night...
After a long and awkward pause of the Mother looking at Chelya and Binsk she sighed They are so happy- playing and roughing around wherever they go, watching over me, protecting me since they were cubs and I was very, very young.
I miss that- I miss protecting the People of 42....
The Mother straightened up before looking back at Sealith It doesn't make sense that the people should starve just because the Angel-Oak is finally starting to wear me out- I want to fuel the Angel Oak once more.
I am the last heir, I have no children, I have no family, my brother is a traitor that won't be allowed to touch the Angel Oak even if he and it lived a thousand years.
I'm going to approach Gogrin tomorrow, and I'm going to set things straight before the Council....
I might never be the Queen of 42 again, not alone, not on my own- but I only have one thing left to live for.
This city.
It was not difficult to read into the fact that the Mother was conflicted, but determined, in this goal of reinstating her privileges to the Angel Oak.
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"Ah, yes. Mating ritual." Suzume said with a nod, then contributing to the awkward silence by remembering that humans generally don't talk about that sort of stuff in public.
"Pehaps it is because of the Angel Oak that you are in this situation. Your people grew used to the inevitability of food, security and warmth that they gave up on providing it for themselves. This hardship might be good for them in the end. Right Sealith-San?"
"If you're so intent on an heir, I'm sure there's an orphanage. You might even be able to find a babe that doesn't leak out of every orifice." Suzume suggested jokingly, trying to lighten the mood. He sighed. "Things will get better, Ellyse-San. You'll be with your tree again, and the people will realize all you've done to save them."
As herself she could think of a number of ways to take over and area of a city. But Lilly the 18 year old near-do-well farm girl would not know any of the, she would say something silly and foolish with a twist of brutality, but also may work.
"When I wanted our Flock master to keep his mouth shut, about him finding me with Billy Cooper. I stole his best dog, the one he had brought up from a pup and hid it in a old cave. Told him if he did not do what I said I he would never see old Kip again. He wanted to tell granddad but I told him one word and Kip would be found dead the very next day. He kept his mouth shut and did what he was told after that. Can you get hold of the big criminals family's, you know wives, mothers and then lock them up here. Tell em if they don't do what you say, they wan't see them ever again.?"
She asks as if trying to look smart and please him with a good idea.
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Looking to Suzume. "Gogrin is her mate." She said matter of factly.
"Welcome back to 42 Mother Elyse." Sealith said this with a soft proud tone telling her she approved of her decision.
"Suzume is right, the hardship will do them good. But it can't be to hard. These people aren't anywhere prepared for such a thing and rioting and conflict will erupt. There is perhaps another way. If Telula could assist us. The people of this city can assist Elyse in her ritual and give back some of the life they have taken from it. Symbiotic relationship of sorts. Even if it is only temporary."
Turning to the Mother. "Write notes to Gogrin and tell him your decision. Also, pen one to Telula and ask her if she has any knowledge on mass rituals to share life force, or a way for the cities people to give some of themselves also to help support the tree until they can get the infrastructure ready to support themselves. The ash in the fields is a boon as it fertilizes the soil but it must be capitalized on soon."
Looking at the people milling about.
"EVERYONE FRONT AND CENTER. LINE UP, 4 LINES IN FRONT OF ME IF YOU ARE WANTING TO BE A SOLDIER. WORKERS TO THE RIGHT. CLERICS TO THE LEFT. " Sealith's voice barked out loudly carrying over the rowdy crowd.
Turning to Suzume and Elyse. "I will be asking them questions, don't hesitate to answer them when I ask them. It will be mostly hand raising. It is time we start your campaign and whip these people into soldiers and Samurai."
Looking at each person around.
"YOU CALL THESE STRAIGHT LINES. MOVE YOUR ASSES BEFORE I RIP THEM OFF AND FEED THEM TO YOU."
[b]"Listen up! Elyse wishes to speak with you. This city is going to go through some rough times to come. I will not lie to you or sugarcoat it. Things will be hard. You will feel hunger, you will feel pain. But now is not the time to balk. WHO HERE WOULD SACRIFICE THEIR LIVES FOR THIS CITY EVEN IF IT ONLY MEANT ONE MORE DAY OF SAFETY?!"
"Birds are not all one creature, but they still help each other."
Vasu stood up from the where the raven's cage sat, nodding in appreciation to the human female. She fiddled with the latch on the raven's cage until it popped open, and she extended her arm towards the opening. The bird looked at her fist in confusion. Vasu then whistled a simple word that she was sure the raven would know.
"Come."
With the single command, the raven hopped onto Vasu's arm and flitted its way to her shoulder. She ran the blunt side of her talons down the raven's back in adoration.
"Lovely bird, you and Vasu be good friends."
Rita, Marco, Benny/Betty/Bethany, and Julian were all at the head of each of the four lines. There was at least a dozen or just fewer than that behind each one of them.
A dozen new workers stood to the left of Benny, the last line of possible soldiers, and Sealith saw that nearly five more Clerics had been sent via High Priest Regal according to Gogrin's demands in the other line.
As she asked the question, most looked determined, but scared to answer- unlike Suzume's four students, all of whom immediately gave a small bow as they were taught, drew their sparring swords and answered I would! at Sealith's call.
The Mother whispered behind Sealith and Suzume so that others could not hear What.... are you doing???
Gogrin stopped rushing for just a moment as he sat back down with a sigh Of course you can, my love, my little Ring, sorry. Just... This will be the first time, the first generation in all of this city's history, that the Angel-Oak will possibly be out of service. I....
I am unsure, yet, as how to respond. I suppose we both could look at designs and texts of the city, if you'd like to? Of course- Gogrin gave Telula a deep and loving kiss randomly in the middle of his sentence that just means you are going to be that much smarter than me, again. Gogrin laughed as he pulled back away, setting more than a few books aside onto the study table.
Where are we going? M, do you have any food???
The Warden smiled Better, though I do like your plan... Ha ha, I may do it anyways. No- I have given these criminals their freedom under the guise that they all do one thing for me- the Warden leaned into Lilly as he set her down with a wild grin Serve me, loyally.
They are going to set fire for me to all four quadrants of 42; they are going to tear apart the guilds of the North West, the rich and fat families of the South East, and take ownership over the smithies, mines, and industry in the South West. Most importantly-
They are going to kill a few people for me. Quite a lot of people. Then, well- then I arrest them, kill them, and claim 42 as my own.
With someone like you at my side, I don't believe I will have any problems implementing such a thing- do you?
Kissing Gogrin on forehead, she went back to the book of Bards. Before sitting down, it occurred to her. "Have you seen Myrddin?" Right on queue, the hawk flew in and perched on her shoulder. "Oh, there you are." The Arcanist said scratching his chest. After sitting down, Telula opened the book and began studying.
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Suzume raised an eyebrow at Sealith.
"My gods, Sealith. You scared me a little there." He chuckled. "You're good at this. In my travels, someone that good at spouting and shouting drills like that are either have years of experience doing just that, or they have a few hatchlings."
To answer the Mother, he tilted his head and said. "We're tag-teaming. I break their bodies and Sealith breaks their spirits, and like aching muscles after much yak milk, they will grow closer and stronger after that."
'Mother, when I ask you something where they can hear answer honestly. They need to see you as someone to look up to again. No lying.'
Seeing the ones drawing their swords Sealith looked ready to explode.
While this was mostly directed to those in front of her, her eyes scanned the others as if daring them to f~~@ up.
Turning back to those in front of her. "YOU, snickering in the back. Get down on your face! You know what. ALL OF YOU DOWN. Hands shoulder width apart on the ground. Push on the ground until it moves!"
Turning to Suzume and Elyse she walks back towards them. Stopping half way she turned to look at the clerics and the workers as if daring them to give her an excuse to unload on them.
Sealith looked at Elyse and Elyse got the feeling the next question was going to be aimed at her.
"Elyse, Would you give up your life for this city?" Elyse could see the look in Sealith's eyes. It was telling her to answer loudly and truthfully.
She looks into his eyes while holding his chest.
"But your not going to do it soon are you, I wanted to go shopping, I can't be by your side looking like this. I look like I've just come off the farm. People will think me simple and poor. I want to get nice thing to ware, I want to be a fine lady by your side. and... I also want to get some things that look nice in bed. I spotted this little shop that sells the most wonderful silk outfits."
She gives a mischievous smile.
After both Telula and Gogrin spent some time in the study Gogrin closed his book with a sigh All I can find are tidbits about how only the heir of the First Man can operate the Angel-Oak.
The only other interesting pieces I've been able to find are small ideas on how to re-organize 42 so that we can still feed the people- but I'm not entirely sure anyone is going to enjoy our suggestions.
Gogrin walked over to Telula with a hand out, speaking in Dwarven Would you like to come with me to the Vault, my little Ring? It'd be a shame for me to have you inside all day when you look as ravishing as you do.
Benny / Betty became so fearful of Sealith's roaring orders that he dropped his sword, twice, before finally being able to return it back to its sheath, making Suzume feel the need to give himself a facepalm as he watched the others really, really hold in their laughter at Benny- no one wanted to get reamed out anymore than they already had.
When Sealith asked them all to drop, they did so immediately. Some had to stop now and again, mostly the Clerics- their magic was high for people as young as they were, but their constitution was quite small and frail.
Elyse walked forward to Sealith's question as she called Chelya and Binsk from behind the lines- they sprinted between Benny and Julian's lines, making each of them nearly do a clap push up as they saw the hulking figures pass. I will ALWAYS be ready to give my life for this City! The Angel Oak has slowly been killing me, more and more everyday. My entire life force is drawn from me within twelve hours- yet I remain attached for 18 until I passout, exhausted, and awaken to Head of the Royal Guard Alexis reviving me.
As the Mother answered Sealith's questions and the group did push ups, a man in chainmail carrying a longsword rode up as quietly as he could behind the entire group. He walked his horse slowly and calmly until he was side by side with Suzume and whispered Gogrin had festivities planned for us all to celebrate his most recent coronation- however, he has cancelled this. He told me to simply come here and deliver the message that you, Sealith, and the Mother are expected to come to his home instead, and I am to remain with you all until you have arrived back to his home. Um.... What... is this? Are they, are these commoners training? Are these all your students Suzume? Alexis has spoken of you and the news from the South West in high regard, but, to be honest, we were not sure if you were here with Rita and the Hammers or somewhere else.
A man with jet black hair and violin at his side came walking down the narrow hall just behind "Lilly"- she could hear his annoying smile from across the room.
The Warden nodded with a whisper And this one is the bel of the ball as far as criminals go.
In a louder tone the Warden grinned Matthias! Yes, please, come in. This is the wonderful woman I was discussing earlier before you were able to arrive. I trust, after my men released you as commanded, you made it here quite easily?
Matthias waved a hand Let's skip the pleasantries, Warden Franklin. We both know you have a considerable force, we both know that idiot messenger sent here by Gogrin quite some hours ago is because he has no doubt discovered that the Angel Oak is dying now that neither of the two final heirs are no longer allowed to operate it. But I've been here too long- let's discuss this business quickly so I can begin the process of ripping this town apart with its own criminals and commoners.
The Warden smiled as he pulled Lilly to the side Don't worry, my dear- I wanted you, well, after last night, I wanted you to see everything I am capable of. Do you know who this man is?
::Aram says this is bad-very bad. Matthias is bad- traitor. Leader of Revelation Cult and conspirators. How did Warden get him??? Very bad miss, very bad.::
Looking at Gogrin, "There has to be a way we can ease into the transition. I mean I find it hard to believe the founders of this city didn't take something like this into consideration."
As he offered his hand, the Majar accepted it and replied, "מה אני יכול להגיד? יש המלך שלי טעם טוב."
::"Hear all that's said here, if this new face exposes me you will have to get the information back. It's key that Farther know what will happen soon, understood. Tell him the family must be protected"::
She bows like farm girl would to a lord as Matthias some to them.
All she says is,
"Master Matthias, the street bard sing of you."
The pulling herself away and as if mimicking the roll her mother took on as the men talked. She go's over to the Warden desk and starts to get wine and water ready for them.
"You will want refreshment as you talk"
She has done nothing to the drink, but takes it to a table so the two of them can sit.
Looking at everyone around she wouldn't yell as Elyse spoke and instead watches over those around. Part of her is proud to see the civilians on the ground also.
"EVERYONE UP! MOVE IT, MOVE IT. Stand at attention soldiers. Feet together, arms at your side. Backs straight. Now, Look to your right. At the workers that are rebuilding the shield of this city. They are not building a wall, they are building your shield. But a shield is useless if you don't know how it is built. How it can work to be your shield. So you will be helping them build your city's shield."
She turned to the workers.
"Know you are building the shield of the city. The people inside this city will be counting on it. But, you are also going to learn about what it takes to be a soldier. You need to know how your soldiers are going to fight so you can better build the shield for them. This isn't just about you building, it is how you contribute to your community."
Turning to the soldiers again. "Now soldiers, you have been getting a lot of cuts and bruises because all of you are cupcakes can't fight properly. To your left are the clerics of this city. They have been mending your wounds. ON THE BATTLE FIELD, they won't always be there. So you have to learn how to tend your own wounds. You will be spending time with them. SO . You may even have to patch one of your brothers and sisters in arms."
Turning to the clerics. "You now know a little about how much physical training it takes to be a soldier. You have seen and experienced the briefest of tastes. These people rely on you to be healers, but also to be spiritual advisors, councilors, Voices of Reason. You must understand what they go through, you must understand the hardships they will face. What this city will face with the magic of the Tree fading. You will train alongside them. Work along side them. Your work with the roots of the tree is important. You have lived off the fruits of the tree for years. NOW, It is time for you to teach the city to give back to the tree."
Moving she stands beside the Mother and Suzume.
"I am here to teach you, not take over. I will groom you into fine soldiers and members of your city. But it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY, NO YOUR OBLIGATION, to strengthen those around you and teach them."
Looking at Elyse and then Suzume and the newcomer then back to the troops. "The people of this city must support the tree. The fields can provide food to stop draining the magic of the Angel Oak. So, the fields need to be prepped for planting. You will assist in doing this. Find your farmers and planters. If you have none, get the tools needed to clear the fields and go out there and do it. You are going to start the planting process. Before sunrise I want you in those fields and working. On your own, little will get done. So spread the word and gather as many people as possible to aid you in this. Show the Leaders of this City that the PEOPLE of this city are prepared to take Responsibility. That is your job for the rest of the day and tomorrow."
Gogrin led Telula out of the room, but not before gently coming up behind her so that she could feel his breath and kiss on her neck.
I thought so too... But I can't find anything. It's almost as if the humans that originally settled here weren't the ones who made the Angel Oak. The more I study it, and the texts, the less I feel like I know.
As they made way with their rightful avian companions through the study the remaining five royal escorts stood straight up at attention and followed them outside. The sun was just gently beginning to set as they walked the short distance from Gogrin's home to the 42nd Vault.
Inside the building was as massive as it looked outside- nothing but white and gold laced marble throughout the entire building. Telula thought it was odd, however, that there was no security throughout the building aside from Gogrin's own personal royal detail.
Gogrin nodded at the smiling human female tending to the marble clerk counter before walking up a long and winding series of steps to visit Aram in his office. If only the office was still mine, I'd find something to distract us with before we went back down to the Vault to look at the gold, hm? Gogrin teased as he continued to have his arm entwined with Telula's.
Matthias eyed Lilly over before looking back to Warden Franklin So, who is this girl with you, Warden? You never have girls, even when I wasn't a traitor here to 42.
The Warden gave a warding smile as he sighed with a hand on Lilly's Thank you for the drinks, love, you can stay with us. Matthias, this is Lilly. I believe she is going to be the third party to join our group here- she is a very special girl. Nearly as dispositioned as I am, if you can believe it!
Matthias snorted No, I can't. What I also can't believe, however, is that you are willing to do all of this just for a silly title- why? And why now?
The Warden gave Matthias a baffled look What about YOU, Matthias? Why now for you?
Matthias grinned I was approached by a God and several deserters of the Empire. I had backing, motivation, ambition- and an inheritance to the Angel Oak. That is until we had to flee and my men, in the meantime of me being your prisoner, were slayed and splattered by the Frost Giant King and his Iron Legion. Thanks for that, by the way.
The Warden laughed Oh we both know the gangs I've released from this prison have provided you with more men and power than anything you've ever held before, Matthias- you should be thankful.
Matthias frowned Thankful... Perhaps I will be, once I drive my sword through Gogrin's fat head.
Both the men laughed as they continued to share drinks with one another, all while Lilly remained ever observant.
The people stood at attention before Sealith for quite sometime before they felt comfortable abandoning the ranks of the lines and going straight to work. A few leaders stuck out in the organizing of who did what- Rita went straight to work at another smith's smithy to begin her second try at constructing a katana.
Marco and Julian started to slowly spar with a few others as the Sun began to fall over the sky, and Benny led one of the search parties that would start to investigate farmers and the open lands of the center of the South Eastern Quadrant.
The Mother bowed gently to Sealith with a smile I can never thank you enough, Sealith, Suzume. Look at all of this- I don't think anything like this has happened in all the history of 42!
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"I wouldn't know. I do not know your histories. But, what I have learned of leadership. Followers prefer a truthful and honest leader. One who will stand beside them and do the same work they will. I may not be able to use tools but these claws can still cut things. And clearing stone is easier when it is broken."
Turning to Suzume. "Sorry I took them over but I figured we should head to Gogrin's and talk to him immediately. I....well lets just say we have some very personal things to discuss and plan. Elyse, you will come too. I promise Suzume, I'll find some of your favorite drink if I can and compensate you. Elyse we need to travel fast, you have a way to make us faster?"
She sits and waits as they talk, it seems the warden had already talked about her so unless they wanted her to give input she had nothing more to say.
::"Forget none of this, you will have to repeat it. Tell Father I have no doubt they will try to kill each other once their plan is underway. They just need each other for now."::
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He listened to the Mother's answer to Sealith intently before the messenger came.
"Very well, I will inform Sealith straightaways." His back was turned during Sealith's next bout of yelling. Suzume jumped slightly before he continued to watch.
Good speech. He thought. Wish I thought of it first.
"We are not doing this for thanks, Ellyse-Sama." He said, his voice growing kinder. Though she probably didn't know what he meant by it, he hoped she got the idea that the different honorific he used for signified a new level of respect. "We haven't been here too long, true, but we will nurtur and defend this place as if it were our own home."
He nodded to Sealith. "You go on ahead without me. I am going to hurry to the market to buy a jar, and maybe something that Gogrin can keep on a shelf. Oh, and my favorite drink is Scotch. Aged, neat." He winked. "I'll return the favor for you in due time."
The Mother gave a wide smile at Suzume Hm, not for thanks, huh? How very noble! the Mother gave a sincere blush and smile as she said so.
The Mother then nodded to SealithI can, but, only slightly. It might be faster if you fly, I run with my Chelya and my Binsk, and, well, Suzume, you have Beru, your adorable yak, don't you? Ooooh I haven't said hi to Beru in forever! Chelya and Binsk's ears seemed to perk up at the name "Beru" in a playful manner.
The Royal Guard followed Suzume while leading his horse along, as they made their way to a liquor market just on the western corner of the tavern Suzume had stayed last night.
As they did so the Royal Guard nodded Well, I suppose there is no issue with us going to see Gogrin today instead of tomorrow- the Mother mentioned you have a "yak"- what is a yak?
You're going to find out once we are inside the Vault, my lovely little Ring. Gogrin said, quickly squeezing the Majar's butt before knocking and being welcomed into Aram's temporary office.
Aram was no longer dressed in his basic brown and humble clothes but similar now to Telula and Gogrin- Gogrin grinned One day and already you've changed styles, huh?
Aram grinned Well I can't be loaning out money to the guilds in my humble cloth of philanthropy, now, can I? Though I expected when you put me in charge you wouldn't think I needed a baby sitter- how silly of me to think you couldn't go a day without checking in on your gold! Aram teased, making Gogrin chuckle with a beard shake.
Lady Telula, so good to see you again, as well. My- Gogrin clearly has not wasted a second to begin spoiling you! Such a treasure indeed. Well, then, what can I do for you?
Gogrin grinned We have a pretty huge development project idea- you'll find out most of it at dinner, but first- Gogrin rubbed his forefinger and thumb together We need to go to the Vault.
Aram laughed I knew it! I knew you couldn't go a day with another man touching your gold! Very well- here! Aram walked a large and golden amulet over to Gogrin Enjoy- Telula, prepare yourself, the Vault is quite huge, and dare I say it- you may be quite literally blinded by the amount of gold in there, ha ha.
Gogrin grinned We are about to fix that, actually. I will leave this with the clerk when I am done, Aram! Telula, my Ring, did you have anything you wanted to discuss with this fine gentleman before we head down to the Vault?
::He is making preparations now- he does not want you to die. Says get out when you can::
Now then, Matthias- I trust the men I released to be under your command are being compliant?
Matthias scolded They'd no better than to not be against someone like me- I'm sure you recognize the feeling, Warden. And they definitely do not want to be put in your infamous "Labyrinth." You must tell me how it works, the entire thing, then.
The Warden sipped his drink before wrapping an arm around Lilly Eventually, Matthias. Eventually I will show a majority of the rulers here what it is about, and I'll be sure to let you enjoy the show as well.
Matthias tsk'd I don't want to watch- I want to try it. I can't remember the last time I had a good challenge since that damned Fey cut my violin string- the bastard and his green sword. Luckily that Empire's "Speaker" killed the little f!%@er for me. Man, the Empire really has a way of treating their assets, don't they?
The Warden laughed Yes they really really do! He was just outside the Angel-Oak when that sociopathic, well, whatever he is, did that. Regardless, where will you be attacking first?
The Warden nibbled at Lilly, discontent with Matthias alone as he spoke One gang is going to set fire to the South-East where most of the nobels live. I've heard they started rebuilding the wall I melted down there- I believe that can be stopped as well.
Another, then, well, you have the antidote, correct? F!&!ing Gogrin changing plans last minute- it appears he won't be as incompetent as we hoped. He's shrunk our time frame completely in a matter of a day.
Matthias got up to leave seeing the Warden's disinterest I'm going to get things started a little early- just don't do anything to have your own men kill you or this wonderful jewel at dinner tomorrow, yes?
Matthias then laughed as he left, leaving the Warden and Lilly to themselves. The Warden grinned Speaking of which- we have a dinner to attend tomorrow night.
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Suzume picks out a vase and pays the merchant.
"You'll find out what a yak is very soon, ma boy. We're going to make a quick stop at the stables after this." He coughed into his sleeve. "What's yer name, boy?"
Suzume then grabbed a small garment hand payed for that.
He hummed. "What flowers are festive in this culture?" He asked near the flower stand.
My name is Arvalis, Master Suzume. What flowers are... Festive? Um... Well I suppose really it depends. Carnations are used for sadness, but anything purple, especially a purple rose or Allium, sometimes even Dwarf Iris is for happy occasions. Why do you ask?
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** spoiler omitted **
Er, paper, quill? I uh- the Royal Guard empathetically patted down his chain mail before going to the ruck sack thrown leisurely over his steed I, uh, here! A few sheets of papyrus, ink, quill, just in case, you know, Commander Alexis says anything of importance!
Arvalis looked at Suzume, then back at Beru, then back at Suzume This thing has UTTERS? Ummm... You realize I take orders from Commander Alexis, not you, right, Master Suzume?
Arvalis looked extremely puzzled as to why there was suddenly a mix of flowers, writing, and milking a yak.
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Suzume puts his arm around Arvalis. "Think about what I'm asking you for a second there, Arvalis-San." He said smoothly. "Life is made up of experiences, they stretch out as far as you have lived. I am offering you an experience. I am offering you the ability to go to the pub with your mates and discuss over a pint how you, Arvalis, milked a yak, and how they didn't." He patted him on the back and handed him the bucket. "Do you really want to go the rest of your life knowing that you missed this opportunity?"
Arvalis scratched his head another moment before shrugging Well alright, um- Arvalis pulled up his sleeves and began to awkwardly tug and milk the yak's utters What, uh, what are we going to be doing with the milk?
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If Suzume's beak would allow a smile, he'd be smiling ear to ear.
"I'm going to put some of it in this jar and gift it to Gogrin. You may keep the rest."
After Arvalis finished, he indeed scooped the milk into the jar, sealed it, then put it into the bag.
"That should do with my errands. On our way to Gogrin's house, then."