The Mother giggled, walking out of her make shift candle circle with the saber cats close behind Well of course! Despite what you may have heard not all in Terra Nix are barbarians my dear Suzume! No no! 42 has a history to protect, despite recent events, we are quite safe, and quite hospitable.
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Suzume snickered. "I made no such assumptions, milady, in fact, there are certain folk who would think my own people barbaric. By the way, would your people need any help with the meal? I have spent a year or two in the kitchen during my travels, and I would be glad to assist thee in a most noble way as food preperation."
The Mother giggled again No no, that is not necessary. Her voice became slightly darker, though it still had her typical glow to it as she continued You will be paying us honorably in other ways. But again, all in due time!
The Mother laughed again Cryptic warning??? You are a sharp thing after all, Suzume. Through and through! Must be a common thing with those who have close relationships with their pets. The Mother gave another loving glance and pout to Beru.
But no! There's just... Well, there is quite a lot going on in 42. I'd be lying if I said that the information you need wasn't going to come at a price- but there is no hostage situation here, my dear warrior traveller, if that is what you mean. Only that in 42 we keep our light days light, and our heavy conversations heavy. I assure you we take our hospitality quite seriously here. We did not exist for hundreds of years on the lineage of the 42 in this terrible cold without manners, after all.
The Mother stared over Suzume for another moment before carefully and politely asking Forgive me, Suzume, but being a warrior and all... Your culture is a blunt culture, than, I take it?
Sneaky? Intriguing. I wonder who is more sneaky, you... or my cats?
It was clear the Mother was joking, as she quickly moved on Do you and Beru, then, fight together, as I do with my Chelya and Binsk?
Looks up as the word sneaky is used.
well, well, most interesting
"My I ask mother dear, why your city has the name 46, is that the number of founding members, tribes or its location on some map. Area 46 and such, or do you operative Numarocity as a faith and place a meaning to that number? I say this because looking at horticultural endeavors its as if your aiming for some grand design over nature. An formal and orderly mastery over its evaluations, I would suspect there would be some frictions from the more chaotic aspects of nature."
There is a fay double meaning in what he is saying, hinting at the political and circuital inherit conflicts in a city like this. that they may be he is not saying, but in the land of the Fay all things are possible they say, so linked is it to the lands of dream, could it be he has experience in this matter.
To Vasu -
"Suzume te hailing he Ronin i te iwi o Cardinal. Te ingoa tona hoa e whakahonoretia ana te Beru.
Kei te tono ia ia ia ki te mea he hoa me. Na ô ia. 'E toku toku, kua koe e rua i roto i te moka rawa tahi. E mea he ara kia te runanga pupuri koutou i te reira, me tou mata. Kia pehea te tūmomo. He rite tata rite ahau ki toku Chelya ko Binsk koe. Well. Mahi Ko nga ingoa o ona hoa Chelya me Binsk.
Suzume ta. 'Oia mau te kōrero i taea e korerotia nei e matou. A ko reira te ahuareka ki te whakatau i te rua o a koutou, rawa. Kaha mea ahau, he nui koe ake manuhiri atu te ahua whakamutunga ngaro tutaki matou i roto i te wāhi pouri. '
Kei te whakaatu i te Mother te whakama i te tohutoro ki te pouri.
'Aue, e toku, ae ra, ka whai koe ki te whakarerea noatia ahau. Kore e pera i nga wa katoa i tenei, engari, pai. Te whakaū i te pa katoa o te kararehe e taea te tango i te nui nui rawa o te kaha. Ahau me nga tama a Terrak, te hunga nei kia koutou i roto konei, whakaaro tahi huri noa i te "anahera o te 42" mo te haora tuatahi e ono o te ra. Faaoti ahau ki te hoatu i roto i te wa iti anō hoki te hauora o te pa ano, a, o te akoranga ona hoa. '
Hanga ana e ia e pā ana ki te kōrero i te ope o mua. Ko te Rune. E kore e titiro te reira e pai ia ki te kōrero i tēnei."
She is asking him if he has a companion as well. She states. 'My my, you two have been through quite a bit together. It would seem the council even let you keep it and your blade. How intriguing. You are as close as I am with my Chelya and Binsk. Well done. Chelya and Binsk are the names of her companions.
Suzume says. 'Indeed the stories we could tell. And it is a pleasure to meet the two of you, too. Might I say, you are much more hospitable than the last mysterious figure we met in a darkened area.'
The Mother is showing confusion at the reference to darkness.
'Oh my, yes, you'll have to forgive me. It is not always like this, but, well. Maintaining an entire city of animals can take quite a great amount of effort. I and the Sons of Terrak, the ones who let you inside here, meditate together around the "Angel of the 42" for the first six hours of the day. I decided to put in a little extra time for the health of the city itself, and, of course her companions.'
She makes comment about a previous host. The rune. It does not seem she wishes to discuss this.'
Shifting she pointed to Lord McGible as he spoke translating.
"'Ko ahau te Ariki Perpireen McGibel, he pononga o te Kingi raro te Regent Hill o te whenua Fay. I tēnei wā tona māngai ki te reo. Pai ki te whakatau ia Mother koutou o te pa. Toku mihi ki a koutou e ahau i runga i tou kingitanga, he mea whakamiharo hoki ki te titiro. Haere matou ki reira no te mea te wahi i korerotia e matou te hoko i te reo e mohio koutou o te whakamātautau e tatou ano me te rōpū haere. '
'Kingi I raro i te Hill? Kia pehea te tūmomo! Ko ahau a koutou oaoa i toku kari, me te forestation oaoa. Ka mau te reira i tokomaha maha nga tau, me te whakatupuranga o nga tama o Terrak ki te hanga tenei a ka mau tonu te reira.
He whakamātautau? Ae, pai ... ka whai matou nga mea ki te matapaki i te kai i roto i taua whakaaro! Ka ako koe e te iwi o 42, tino, Terra Nix katoa, ko te bargaining me te iwi whakakumu.
E kore matou e koropiko ki te mana o tenei reo, ara te Empire ranei i to tatou taahiraa tatau. I muri i te katoa i reira he he take e kore i tonu ka whakamatau ratou ki te urutomo i Terra Nix '."
'King Under the Hill? How intriguing! I am happy you enjoy my gardens and forestation. It took many many years and generations of the Sons of Terrak to build this and then maintain it.
A test? Yes, well... We will have things to discuss at dinner in that regard! You will learn that the people of 42, really, all Terra Nix, are a bargaining and secretive people.
We do not bow to the power of this Voice, or even the Empire at our door step. After all there is a reason they have not ever attempted to invade Terra Nix.'
Sealith shifts her feet and looks at Vasu. Once she is caught up she would continue.
Ui Suzume ki te whakahuatia tina i.
O ratou utu he kupu.
'Well o te akoranga! Ahakoa te aha e kua rongo koe kihai katoa i roto i te Terra Nix ko toku Suzume aroha Tautangata! Kahore e kore! 42 He hītori ki te tiaki, ahakoa ngā tata, he tatou haumaru rawa, a tino manuhiri. '
Aronga nui ki te Tautangata.
'I hanga e ahau kahore whakapae taua, milady, i roto i te meka, i reira e etahi iwi nei e whakaaro taku iwi ake whakarihariha. Na te ara, e hiahia koutou iwi tetahi awhina ki te kai? Kua pau ahau i te rua ranei tau i roto i te kīhini i roto i to'u mau tere, a e ahau hari ki te āwhina ia koe i roto i te ara pai rawa rite preperation kai. '
E ai ta te whaea e kore ko tenei e tika ana, me te e, e te aufauraa i tatou ia ratou whakahaere i roto i te wa e tika. Te aronga ki te whakahaere.
Suzume kī aroha e ia, no te hoatu e tatou nga mano ngaro faaararaa neherā.
Kata te whaea rite koutou i kite, ka mea.
'Fakatokanga neherā ??? Ko te mea koi koe i muri katoa, Suzume. Na roto i a roto! Me waiho te mea noa ki te hunga e whai hononga tata ki a ratou mōkai.
Ko kahore! He te tika ... Well, i reira he tino he rota e haere i runga i roto i te 42. Hiahia ahau kia takoto i mea ki te ahau e kore i te mōhiohio e hiahia ana koe e haere ana ki te haere mai i te hoo, engari kahore he āhuatanga purutia konei, e toku aroha toa haere, ki te mea ko te tikanga koe. E anake i roto i te 42 pupuri tatou i to tatou ra te marama te marama, me o matou kōrero taimaha taimaha. Haapapû ahau ki a koutou te tango tatou i to tatou manuhiri tino fakamātoato konei. Kihai i te tīariari matou mo rau o nga tau i runga i te kawei o te 42 i roto i tenei matao e wehingia kahore ritenga, i muri katoa.
Whakarerea noatia iho ahau, Suzume, engari te he toa, me katoa ... tou tikanga ko te tikanga puhuki, i te, mau ahau ki reira? '
Tali Suzume ki:
'Ka taea e korerotia e ahau ki taua nui te haere i runga i, ahakoa oku kanohi (maha) kore ahau. Mauruuru ahau te manuhiri, he mea he mea tupua rawa i roto i to'u mau tere. Puhuki, kahore. Ētahi atu rite Sneaky. Ahau i te moka o te tino rerekē. '
Ui te whaea nei e riro atu Sneaky. Suzume ona ngeru ranei. E toku moni i runga i ona ngeru. E tono ana ia ki te Beru me Suzume whawhai tahi rite ia me ona hoa e rave.
McGibel ta:
"Toku ui ahau whaea aroha, he aha koutou pa te ingoa 46, ko e te maha o te mau melo taketake, iwi ranei tona wāhi i runga i etahi mahere. Area 46 me te taua, ranei te mahi koe operative Numarocity rite te whakapono, me te waiho i te auraa ki e tokomaha? mea e ahau tenei no te titiro i kaha rākau ona me te mea koutou whai hoki etahi hoahoa rahi i runga i te natura. tētahi hinganga ōkawa, me te tika i runga i ona ngā aromātai, e whakapae ahau ki reira e te tahi mau frictions i te āhuatanga ake huru o te natura.'"
'Suzume asked if dinner was mentioned.
Their exchange is thus.
'Well of course! Despite what you may have heard not all in Terra Nix are barbarians my dear Suzume! No no! 42 has a history to protect, despite recent events, we are quite safe, and quite hospitable.'
Emphasis on barbarians.
'I made no such assumptions, milady, in fact, there are certain folk who would think my own people barbaric. By the way, would your people need any help with the meal? I have spent a year or two in the kitchen during my travels, and I would be glad to assist thee in a most noble way as food preperation.'
The mother says this is not necessary and that we will be paying them honorably in due time. Emphasis on Honorably.
Suzume stated he loves it when mysterious hosts give us cryptic warnings.
The mother laughed as you saw and said.
'Cryptic warning??? You are a sharp thing after all, Suzume. Through and through! Must be a common thing with those who have close relationships with their pets.
But no! There's just... Well, there is quite a lot going on in 42. I'd be lying if I said that the information you need wasn't going to come at a price- but there is no hostage situation here, my dear warrior traveller, if that is what you mean. Only that in 42 we keep our light days light, and our heavy conversations heavy. I assure you we take our hospitality quite seriously here. We did not exist for hundreds of years on the lineage of the 42 in this terrible cold without manners, after all.
Forgive me, Suzume, but being a warrior and all... Your culture is a blunt culture, than, I take it?'
Suzume replies with:
'I can tell that much is going on, even though my eyes (often) fail me. I appreciate the hospitality, it is a rare thing in my travels. Blunt, no. More like sneaky. I'm a bit of an oddity.'
The mother asks who would be more sneaky. Suzume or her cats. My money would be on her cats. She asks if Beru and Suzume fight together as her and her companions do.
McGibel says:
'My I ask mother dear, why your city has the name 46, is that the number of founding members, tribes or its location on some map. Area 46 and such, or do you operative Numarocity as a faith and place a meaning to that number? I say this because looking at horticultural endeavors its as if your aiming for some grand design over nature. An formal and orderly mastery over its evaluations, I would suspect there would be some frictions from the more chaotic aspects of nature.'
I do not know if it is intentional that he uses the wrong number.
Sealith was to busy translating to look into double meanings at the moment.
The Mother sits back down among her Saber Cats Ah, that is not what I mean. But again, we shall see. Lord McGibel, it appears you have a question of me as well?
The Mother is not asking if Suzume does fight with Beru, but how well they fight together. She is lightly teasing xD
You ask why we name this city 42? Hundreds of years ago- The Mother began to look into Chelya and Binsk's eyes as she told the story, as if she was day dreaming 42 Druids withheld this very city against the Terrak Empire, not unlike your own Dominorum. The Angel-Oak was still old then, still as beautiful as it is now, if only a tiny bit smaller.
Those 42 Druids built up, for months, armies of wild animals they then tamed as the Terrak Empire marched closer and closer to their doorstep. Hawks to the skies as scouts; Gorillas as their enforces and troops; Saber Cats as their cavalry. For nearly ten weeks this makeshift army, and the supposed blessings of the Angel Oak of the 42, withstood the Terrak Empire. Afterwards they retreated from the direct assault of the 42, and the Empire collapsed into the many city-states of Terra Nix it is today not long after.
On their final frontal assault, 12 of the Druids died along with their beloved companions. This is why there are twelve gardens before the Angel Oak.
It is also why we always have, at all times, 12 Sons of Terrak amongst the Jacarandas that wrap the Angel of 42, for from Terrak 12 Sons of 42 were killed.
I am the last true living heir of the 42 Druids. It is why I am the Mother, and why I must stay inside the Angel-Oak for as long as I do each day. I am responsible for training each and every one of the new 12 Sons of Terrak as they pass. As a reward, the Angel-Oak has given me and my two companions quite the extended life span.
McGibel waits as the mother Explans the history of her city and the talkative Samurai chats away. He then adds.
"We fay so not recon time as mortals do Mother of the city, time is not the same for us, a day in the court of the King under the hill could be 100 seconds or 100 years here. Time in the lands of the fay shifts in odd ways. Also as The Dominorum is no more mine than a cloud is, I was sent to it as a Representative nothing more nothing less by my King. Here to see what mortals are up to. I was asked and I must say in a rather rude way to join some kind of group doing the voices bidding. As this seems to get me to the heart of this empires activity I agreed. But you like me have a long view on life."
He smiles as if also teasing
"As you say Mother, Mortal empires come and go, we fay have seen many, do such and will see many more, now about this meal, will there be music and dancing"
Vasu frowned, quietly standing at attention at the very rear of the group, listening and occasionally nodding as Sealith dutifully translated the Common tongue into Auran so that she would be able to understand the goings-on of the conversation.
For once, Vasu was baffled. Dependence on another creature just to speak was puzzling in itself. Lack of an order even more so. Orders from superiors made life simple, they made life entirely too easy to cruise through without a second thought. And here she had no orders, only the vague command to keep the party safe...
...Right?
No, something was missing. Vasu scanned through the memories of the past day that seemed oh so confusing and too overwhelming to even think about much less rationalize. There had to be an order, though, somewhere. She just had to think. Think... Vasu shivered. Was there really no duty to carry out? No quota to fulfill?
All of a sudden, she remembered. What had Master Speaker said? Take both of these to the Mother..." Vasu's body ceased its nervous quivering and a sense of calm overcame her. She threw her right hand into her backpack and dug around until she felt the comforting touch of the Speaker's scroll.
Without a word, Vasu butted between the members of the party in order to get within an arm's distance of The Mother. She handed the pale woman the scroll and bowed her feathered head silently, the tips of her ear tufts laying flat on her head at the force of the motion.
Telula listened while the Mother detailed the history of 42. She was about to say something when Vasu nearly bowled her over. "Hey, what was that for?"
Skuting up when the Owl comes his way, He flys back down as he passes and says to Telula
"It looks like our Owl companion has a message for Mother."
"Still, was it necessary to just barge right passed me?" She asked the Atomie.
"Clearly." She said.
As Vasu approached The Mother, Chelya and Binsk snarled wildly- it was clear that it was ok for them to watch the Mother approach someone, but not the other way around.
She put a hand down on each of the saber cats with a shush and a soft voice Easy, my pets. This one here is a friend. A curious friend, though.
The Mother took the scroll from Vasu Oh, it has the Council's seal. My my, thank you, Vasu. Oh, I apologize I've forgotten.
Mauruuru koutou Vasu
Thank you, Vasu.
The saber cats stalked in a circle around the Mother, eyes still strong on Vasu, as she did not look up again until rolling it nice and tight back into a scroll. She handed it back to Vasu with a stern look as she approached them. She stood perfectly still and straight, a blank look upon her once very cheery and light face, as she whispered something in the Syrinx's ear.
Well done. Meet me in secret later tonight. I will debrief you on what this says- I understand now why this scroll was given to you, Honorable One. The Druids had a long history with the Syrnx. Unfortunately it ended with my great grandfather and your Order, but between this and you being here....
I believe we have something to discuss, my dear Vasu.
Upon finishing her sentence the Mother clapped her hands in the air, returning to her cheery self as she danced past the group, theatrically opening the door back to outside the Angel-Oak Come! It is time for dinner! Oooooh look!
She stopped, just outside in the gardens, pointing towards the sky It's a full moon! My, it's so large in the sky tonight, too!
The Mother has had a complete change of posture, even if only for a moment. Whatever was contained in the scroll has either dire information in regards to her or her 42, or something close and dear to her heart.
Syrnx eh? I'll have to read more on them. Telula thought as she subtly overheard the Mother whisper.
Pays no heed to the privet chat with mother and her now messenger Vasu.
But notes the Change after she reads the Scroll.
Now what was in that scroll to affect her so..
Again he sings to himself as the follow mother.
"He said to me he had no secrets,
and I said well I had none,
He looks at me, his eyebrow raised,
and said,'go on, let's hear one.'
'Well I said, Secrets are a tricky things
that rattle in your mind
They stay there till you tell them
and torture us poor faykind'
A secret holds a power see
to leave someone behind
So pick your consort wisely
in fear they’ll be quit unkind
For once you tell a secret
your fates become entwined
rely on them to keep us seeing
While keeping others blind
So secrets are a tricky things
which often cross the line
They pollute the brain and haunt your dreams
no matter how simple their design"
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"Mother, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I have been most impressed with the care your subjects present to their surroundings. The city is stunningly beautiful."
"And that is a most intriguing story. I am glad that our peoples are at peace. Our diverse team should hopefully help us to be effective at our tasks. Speaking of which, what is the nature of the task we are to complete for you?"
Talathel! Pleased to meet you The Mother gave a wink from outside the Angel-Oak as she then took him by the hand (with slight protest from Chelya and Binsk) and guided the group through the city once more.
The Mother danced as she did so, Kerjak and the gorillas also walking alongside the group as hawks fluttered directly above them, constantly chirping, constantly squawking.
Few people were out and candle lights could be seen from inside the makeshift mud grass huts and homes.
They all arrived at a small, oval longhouse that spanned at least the length of ten of the homes they had only just seen.
You sense strong, strong magic in this area. It is filled with a power you have only felt once before- inside the Council shops and markets when you were their jeweler.
The Mother brought you all into her longhouse, Talathel first still by his hand, and inside you saw a long, tall rise red maple and stained table that was more than large enough for you all. Candles kept the room lit enough to see the food, but not enough to force your eyes to readjust from the dark to seeing in the light. On the table were meat filled grape leaves, hundreds of slices of cheese variants, grapes, and seven entire rotissiere chickens. Vegetables of any kind also filled the table, and a few small chimps could be seen carrying all sorts of wines and liquor with tiny chants.
As you were all seated, the Mother flicker her hair as she took a bite out of a croissant You must forgive me my rudeness, Talathel, but a walk through the center of 42 during a full moon is simply a precious, precious time to all of us. The Hawks rest tonight, as do our Gorillas. The only ones who stalk on a full moon are our saber cats, and, well- [b] she pursed her lips at both Chelya and Binsk [b] They do a fine job of it, don't they girls? After a moment of petting and purring, The Mother seemed to straighten up as she finished her croissant, moving on to slicing up a thick piece of cheese and placing a few grape leaves on her part of the table (You all suddenly notice there are, indeed, no plates on the table)
But to the point. What I require of you is a significant amount of tasks before I can afford to give you up to what your Council calls, incorrectly, "Morte de Manu".
I am assuming some of you have seen the smoke pouring from the eastern border of 42?
Takes some dried fruit and nuts, you may note he eats not meat or animal flesh of any kind. He dos drink a small amount of milk.
"No I did not, pray tell why is there smoke"
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Suzume thins his eyes at the Mother.
There was definitely a change in her composure. Whatever was in that scroll was definitely important. Then his eyes go over to Perpireen, who began singing all of the sudden, how odd...
Then entering the longhouse, he looks around. Something seemed a bit off, he couldn't place his talon on it, though.
Suzume devoured his meal with gusto, he appreciated a fine dining experiance aftter all his time on the road.
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Sense Motives
The Mother is tense, slightly off beat, but she isn't evil or plotting. Her sentences are true- something is simply going on in the back of her mind, tearing at her.
Something she isn't sure she believes. She was talking about the Sons of Terrak in a weird fashion, earlier, and it was weird that in a seemingly peaceful city she still had to be escorted, in addition to Chelya and Binsk, the gorilla unit that had escorted you earlier.
Telula also seems slightly off- as if she had some sort of itch in her brain.
Vasu, too- though Vasu was of impatience, almost a sort of plotting.
The animals were on edge. The spider monkeys slightly fumbled the drinks, Chelya and Binsk looked up now and again, and wagged their tails in an irritated fashion.
Perception
You can hear mumbling from outside, just ever so slight We have to move her now
She has four of us, Kerjak's Unit, Chelya and Binsk, and this new set of travellers here, she is fine .
[smaller] She is the final heir- no children, no husband! We cannot risk it. We have a spy somewhere here- an entire unit of the saber cats were killed within the past week! Someone is targeting us from inside-
It is bad manners to interrupt a dinner. She is protected. Enough.
It would appear these are what Chelya and Binsk are curiously looking about at.
Zips about in the air looking around,
some thing is off here but what?
Finding a small gap in the roof and disapoining for a moment , takes a moment to fly up to the birds over head and asks
"Is all well here my fine fellows?"
Telula is hesitant to step forward at first, sensing a strong presence of magic in the area, one that seemed familiar. Hmm, I'll have to make a note of this later. She thought as she stepped forward.
Taking her seat, the Majar took a moderate portion of the food and began eating. As one of the serving animals came up to her with the wine, she contemplated, Never had wine before, Father always said it was bad for business. Still..... After a few moments, she decided not to try it.
Telula then said, "I didn't. What is it?"
GM hes lordship will purify all the food and drink he has, as a default
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Something definitely wasn't right. The air was changing. Something was going on.
He stepped closer to Telula. "Is everything alright?" He asked. "And also, though I do not mean to alarm you, I have reason to believe that there is a spy amongst the Mother's court." He whispered. "And with us here, it almost feels like an assasssination attempt waiting to happen. Be on your guard."
Weather. The weather! Something is bothering us! The weather! It's cold, so cold, coming here!
The Mother put a cube of cheese in her mouth with a sip of wine as she still stared at Talathel with a cute pout before turning to Tulula
42 was recently attacked by a group from the lands of Morte de Manu- it is the reason The Council arranged to send you all here in the first place. In exchange for your group's help at 42, 42 would historically open its borders to trade and peace with the Dominorum Empire. They have, after all, wanted this deal for some time.
But your Council is uneducated in regards to the Lands of Morte de Manu, and, especially, the lands of Terra Nix. They believe Morte de Manu is one large operation, when, in fact, it is not. Much like the Empire has its sections, so do the Morte de Manu, as does Terra Nix.
The actual "group" of renegades your council sent you to face are known here as "Revelation". A group of extremists who believe Terra Nix should be ruled by Druids, as is fitting towards the land. They sought to re-construct the Terrak Empire with me as their center piece.
When I refused... They threatened to conquer 42, falsely believing it would allow them control of the Angel-Oak.
We survived the attack, but almost the entire Eastern Wall was destroyed in the process- we must rebuild it.
There are other issues, as well- Suzume-
The Mother tapped her hand gently to the table, drawing a circle as she flicked back her hair and gave a sharp look towards the ronin There is indeed a spy, but as far as I know it is not amongst my court. If it were, there would be a massive disturbance- the Angel-Oak would have made me aware if a Son of Terrak betrayed the nature of this town. My guards are... over protective of their mother. Please, be relaxed and at ease. Though, this is yet another issue here.
We need to find this infiltrator- I fear it is a small member of the Revelation's brigade, and they have killed several of my pets. It cannot stand.
Finally-
In walked two new arrivals to the dinner; one was a tiefling girl that had tiny, poking horns from her head and a devilish smile as she danced inside with nearly no clothing- it did not seem to phase The Mother at all.
The other was a burly, black skinned dwarf with glasses low down his nose. He was young, and looked somewhat akin to Talathel- The Mother gave the black skinned dwarf an intimate kiss on his cheek with a look very similar to the one she'd been giving Talathel all night Welcome, Gogrin, Alexis! Meet Suzume, Sealith, Lord McGibel, Telula, Talathel, and Vasu. Our new helpers from the Empire!
The two each gave a gentle bow- the tiefling winking at Vasu -before sitting next to The Mother. Alexis (tiefling) sat on the left side of The Mother, doting on Chelya and Binsk in a similar fashion as their owner, while Gogrin quietly sat on her right side giving her a quick wink as his eyes spanned across the table.
MY my! Another dwarf in Terra Nix. I'd never thought I'd see the day... Gogrin stroked his long red beard as he observed Talathel, a critical thinking pout across his face.
I am The Mother's Bookkeeper. You have not seen it yet, but I am the owner and runner of The 42nd Vault here in 42. And Alexis, here-
Alexis reached across the table, playfully slapping the pointing hand out from Gogrin causing a red-cheeked and unsober laugh from The Mother in doing so Enough! I can introduce myself!
Alexis straightened up her bust and sat neatly cross-legged on her chair as she shyly waved at the group I'm Alexis, of Alexis' Metallurgy! You need it, I can make it, no problem! Though some people like to under-cut me on price!
Alexis stuck a tongue out at Gogrin before pouring herself two separate cups of wine and another wink shot at Vasu.
Gogrin straightened up once more, attempting to speak over the Mother and Alexis giggling and laughing to one another What the Mother was TRYING to say, eh hem- They straightened their smiles only slightly for Gogrin's narraration Is that in order to uphold our deal with the Dominorum Empire, we will need more trade routes, as once your Empire gets a taste of this cities goods they are going to want more. A lot more. We require your help in all these things, before we can help you move on to what your Empire sent you here to really do- deal with Revelation.
If you have any questions, I'm here all night. The Mother and her lover- at this, the girls broke out into laughter once more are already indisposed to the wine, it seems.
"Kei te haapapū Suzume te whaea whawhai tahi ratou.
Kei te korero te Mother te aamu o te pa.
'Ui koe te aha tatou e whakaingoa i tenei pa 42? I mua, i kaiponuhia rau o nga tau 42 Druids tenei pa rawa ki te Terrak Empire, e kore pērā koutou ake Dominorum. Ko te anahera-Oak tawhito Na, tonu rite ataahua tonu rite te mea i teie nei, ki te anake te bit iti iti.
Te hunga 42 Druids hanga ake, no te marama, mano o te kararehe mohoao ratou ka whakararatatia ano ka haere, a ka tata ki to ratou paepae ki te Terrak Empire. Hawks ki nga kapua hei tutei; Gorillas rite ratou whakaū me ngā hōia; Saber Cats rite ratou kaieke hoiho. Hoki tata tekau wiki tenei ope taupua, me te mau haamaitairaa mahara o te anahera Oak o te 42, i turia te Terrak Empire. Muri iho taui ratou i te huaki tika o te 42, ka hinga te Empire ki te tokomaha pa-āhua o Terra Nix he mea tenei ra e kore e roa i muri.
I to ratou huaki frontal whakamutunga, 12 o nga Druids mate me o ratou hoa aroha. Tenei ko te aha i reira e ma rua kari te aroaro o te anahera Oak.
Ko ano hoki te reira te aha tatou i nga wa katoa i, i nga wa katoa, 12 Ko nga tama a Terrak roto nga Jacarandas e roropi te anahera o 42, hoki i Terrak 12 Ko nga tama a 42 i patua.
Ko ahau te whakamutunga pono o te Druids 42 mahuetanga iho ora. Ko te ahau he aha ahau te mama, a he aha me noho hoki ahau i roto i te anahera-Oak hoki rite te roa rite te mahi ahau i ia ra. Ko ahau te kawenga mō te whakangungu ia me nga tangata katoa o te 12 tama hou o Terrak rite haere ratou. Ka rite ki te utu, i homai te anahera-Oak kua ahau me oku hoa e rua rawa te whanganga te ora roa. '
Suzume ta.
'Haapapû e ahau a koutou, milady, e ka whawhai tahi tatou, he tatou i to tatou ope ake.'
Ano i roto i te whakautu ki te kōrero o te whaea ta ia.
'Whakanohoia He pikaunga nui ki runga ki a koutou, milady, a e koutou te whakahaere.'
Inaianei Chimes McGibel i.
Matou e kore e pera Fay Recon wa ei mau taata tahuti e rave Mother o te pa, e kore te mea te taua hoki a matou wa, he ra i roto i te marae o te Kingi i raro i te maunga i taea e 100 hēkona 100 tau ranei konei. Time i roto i nga whenua o te Fay te hünuku i ara rerekē. Ano rite te Dominorum he kore ake toku i te mea e te kapua, i tonoa mai ahau ki a te reira, ano he kahore māngai atu tetahi mea iti e toku Kingi. Here ki te kite i te aha e ki runga ki te tangata. I ui ahau, a me mea e ahau i roto i te ara, kaua ware ki te uru atu etahi ahua o te rōpū mahi i te reo kupu. Ka rite ki tenei mea ki te tiki i ahau ki te ngakau o tenei iloa mahi whakaae ahau. Ko rite koe he tirohanga roa i runga i te ora i ahau ".
Ataata ia me te mea pitopito hoki
'Ka rite ki te mea koutou Mother, haere mai iloa he Tahuti me haere, Fay kua kite matou i tokomaha, i aua a ka kite he tokomaha atu, i teie nei e pā ana ki tenei kai, ka ki reira hei te waiata, i te kanikani'
The Mother is telling the story of the city.
'You ask why we name this city 42? Hundreds of years ago, 42 Druids withheld this very city against the Terrak Empire, not unlike your own Dominorum. The Angel-Oak was still old then, still as beautiful as it is now, if only a tiny bit smaller.
Those 42 Druids built up, for months, armies of wild animals they then tamed as the Terrak Empire marched closer and closer to their doorstep. Hawks to the skies as scouts; Gorillas as their enforces and troops; Saber Cats as their cavalry. For nearly ten weeks this makeshift army, and the supposed blessings of the Angel Oak of the 42, withstood the Terrak Empire. Afterwards they retreated from the direct assault of the 42, and the Empire collapsed into the many city-states of Terra Nix it is today not long after.
On their final frontal assault, 12 of the Druids died along with their beloved companions. This is why there are twelve gardens before the Angel Oak.
It is also why we always have, at all times, 12 Sons of Terrak amongst the Jacarandas that wrap the Angel of 42, for from Terrak 12 Sons of 42 were killed.
I am the last true living heir of the 42 Druids. It is why I am the Mother, and why I must stay inside the Angel-Oak for as long as I do each day. I am responsible for training each and every one of the new 12 Sons of Terrak as they pass. As a reward, the Angel-Oak has given me and my two companions quite the extended life span.'
Suzume says.
'I assure you, milady, that when we fight together, we are our own army.'
Also in reply to the mother's story he says.
'A great burden is placed upon you, milady, and you handle it honorably.'
McGibel now chimes in.
'We fay so not recon time as mortals do Mother of the city, time is not the same for us, a day in the court of the King under the hill could be 100 seconds or 100 years here. Time in the lands of the fay shifts in odd ways. Also as The Dominorum is no more mine than a cloud is, I was sent to it as a Representative nothing more nothing less by my King. Here to see what mortals are up to. I was asked and I must say in a rather rude way to join some kind of group doing the voices bidding. As this seems to get me to the heart of this empires activity I agreed. But you like me have a long view on life.'
His tone has now switched to teasing.
'As you say Mother, Mortal empires come and go, we fay have seen many, do such and will see many more, now about this meal, will there be music and dancing'
As Vasu moved forward she would gently touch people that were pushed out of the way. "Please excuse her and me. I believe what she carries is important. I will explain to her that it was considered rude."
Once Vasu was done with the mother she would gently touch her arm and speaks quietly to her. Her tone was gentle.
"Vasu, e kore e ahau e mohio ki te whakaaro koutou tikanga i mea ai koe ware ranei e kore e engari te mahi koutou hoa. Pea te wā i muri mai ka taea e koe te tono ia ratou ki te neke a ka meinga ratou ara mo koutou. Ko matou he rōpū, e kore taata. I roto i toku ahurea , mahi he mahi i taua, ko te ki te ani i te hoê Tūkorehu. "
Following the mother with Vasu she would whisper to her.
"Vasu, ina whiwhi tatou i te tupono noa, me te kore e mea tino rerenga whakaaro ahau te rōpū kia korero tahi e pā ana ki te hunga e ratou. To tatou ano ki te whai i taua tupono ki tino mahi e. Ano, ki te hiahia koe ki ahau ki te iriti i waiata tana e taea e ahau ".
Pausing to listen to Talathel and the Mother speak she would enjoy the surroundings and looks up at the moon before scanning around them for those watching them.
"Te Mother me Talathel e whakawhitiwhiti oha me pleasantries. Ui Talathel te mama te mea ko to tatou opuaraa i ô nei, a he aha e tatou te mahi kei te tono ia. E taua e lāulea muri tina. Āhua i runga i kowhititanga marama tonu nga sabers ko te hunga anake nei haereere i te pa. More āta mea ia,
Me whakarerea noatia e koe ki ahau toku haumârû, Talathel, engari he haere i roto i te pokapū o te 42 i roto i te marama tonu, ko te noa he, wa utu nui utu nui ki katoa o tatou. Ko te Hawks okioki i te po nei, kia rite ki te mahi tatou Gorillas. Ko te hunga anake nei whaia i runga i te marama tonu e matou ngeru saber, a, pai te mahi ratou i te mahi pai o reira, e kore ratou kotiro?
'Otiia ki te wāhi. He aha rapua e ahau o koutou he te nui o ngā mahi e taea e ahau i mua i ki te hoatu ki a koe ki runga ki te aha koutou Kaunihera karanga, hē, "Morte de Manu".
Te mana'o nei e ahau etahi o koutou kua kite i te paoa ringihia i te rohe ki te rawhiti o 42? '"
You must forgive me my rudeness, Talathel, but a walk through the center of 42 during a full moon is simply a precious, precious time to all of us. The Hawks rest tonight, as do our Gorillas. The only ones who stalk on a full moon are our saber cats, and, well they do a fine job of it, don't they girls?
'But to the point. What I require of you is a significant amount of tasks before I can afford to give you up to what your Council calls, incorrectly, "Morte de Manu".
I am assuming some of you have seen the smoke pouring from the eastern border of 42?'"
When more and more conversation came she took a break to drink as she listened. It was a lot to translate and process at the same time.
"Tata 42 I huakina e te rōpū i te whenua o Morte de nenehene ko reira te take whakaritea te Kaunihera ki te tuku koutou katoa i konei i roto i te wahi tuatahi. I roto i te utu mo te tauturu a to koutou rōpū i 42, 42 e hītori whakatuwhera i ona rohe ki te hokohoko me te rangimarie ki te Dominorum Empire. Kua, i muri i te katoa, hiahia ratou tenei mo etahi wa.
Ko ko to koutou Kaunihera ite ore i roto i te pā ki te Whenua o Morte de Manu, a, rawa, te whenua o Terra Nix. Whakapono ratou Morte de Manu ko tetahi mahi nui, ina, i roto i te meka, ehara i te mea. He nui rite nei ona wāhanga te Empire, pera te mahi i te Morte de Manu, pera e Terra Nix.
Ko te "rōpū" tūturu o rerenga koutou kaunihera tonoa koe e mohiotia konei rite "Revelation" ki te kanohi. Kia He rōpū o extremists e whakapono Terra Nix kia kingi e Druids, kia rite ki te tikanga ki te whenua. I whai ratou kia anō-hanga te Terrak Empire ki ahau rite ratou wahi pokapū.
A, no te pai ahau ... whakawehi ratou ki te wikitoria 42, teka whakapono e tukua te reira ratou e te mana o te anahera-Oak.
Ora matou te whakaeke, engari he iti te huna i te katoa o Eastern Wall i roto i te process- ti'a ia tatou ia te hanga.
He ētahi atu take, rite Tirohanga maitai: 1d20 + 22 ⇒ (3) + 22 = 25 Suzume-
Pātōtō te Mother tona ringa ata ki te tepu, tuhi he porowhita pera flicked hoki ia ona makawe, ka hoatu he titiro koi ki te ronin He pono he tirohia, engari tae noa ki e mohio ana ahau e kore te mea i roto i toku marae. Ki te i te reira, i reira e riro i te disturbance- nui te anahera-Oak e kua meinga mōhio ahau ki te tukua he Tama a Terrak te āhua o tenei pa. Toku kaitiaki e ... i runga i te tiaki o ratou whaea. Tena, kia māhorahora, me te noho humarie ana. Ahakoa, he ano tetahi take konei tenei.
E ti'a ia tatou ki te kitea tenei infiltrator- wehi ahau he mea he mema iti o te Pirikeeti o te Revelation, a kua patua e ratou te maha o oku mōkai. E kore e taea e te reira e tu.
Finally-
But your Council is uneducated in regards to the Lands of Morte de Manu, and, especially, the lands of Terra Nix. They believe Morte de Manu is one large operation, when, in fact, it is not. Much like the Empire has its sections, so do the Morte de Manu, as does Terra Nix.
The actual "group" of renegades your council sent you to face are known here as "Revelation". A group of extremists who believe Terra Nix should be ruled by Druids, as is fitting towards the land. They sought to re-construct the Terrak Empire with me as their center piece.
When I refused... They threatened to conquer 42, falsely believing it would allow them control of the Angel-Oak.
We survived the attack, but almost the entire Eastern Wall was destroyed in the process- we must rebuild it.
Suzume- There is indeed a spy, but as far as I know it is not amongst my court. If it were, there would be a massive disturbance- the Angel-Oak would have made me aware if a Son of Terrak betrayed the nature of this town. My guards are... over protective of their mother. Please, be relaxed and at ease. Though, this is yet another issue here.
We need to find this infiltrator- I fear it is a small member of the Revelation's brigade, and they have killed several of my pets. It cannot stand.
Finally-
She paused as people came in.
"Ko te papaka ko Gogrin, te Alexis tiefling. MY toku!
Ta ia tetahi atu papaka i Terra Nix. E ahau! Whakaaro hiahia kite ahau i te ra ... mirimiri Gogrin tona pahau roa whero rite rite ia Talathel, he Tuhinga whakaaro arohaehae puta noa i tona mata.
Ko ahau te Mother o te ho◊a. Kihai koe i kite i te reira ano, engari ko ahau te rangatira me te kaikawe o te 42nd Vault konei i roto i te 42. Na ka Alexis, konei-
Interupted ia ia ki te mea e whakamōhio ia ia ia.
'Au ahau Alexis, o Alexis' Metallurgy! Me koe reira, taea meinga e ahau te reira, kahore he raruraru! Ahakoa etahi iwi rite ki tapahia ki raro i-i ahau i runga i te utu! '
He aha i tamata i te mama ki te mea, tēnā He hem- e i roto i te tikanga ki te tautoko ake i to tatou mahi ki te Dominorum Empire, ka ti'a ia tatou atu ara tauhokohoko, pera kotahi koutou Empire whiwhi he reka o tenei pa taonga e haere ratou ki te hiahia ake. He rota atu. Rapua e tatou i to koutou awhina i roto i enei mea katoa, i te aroaro o nehenehe ia tatou ia tauturu ia te neke koe i runga i ki te mea ka tonoa koutou Empire koe i konei ki te tino maita'i mahi ki te Apokalupo.
Ki te whai koe i tetahi pātai, Au i konei katoa te po. Kua mahaki te Mother me tona aroha kē ki te waina, te mea te reira. '"
He says Another dwarf in Terra Nix. I'd never thought I'd see the day... Gogrin stroked his long red beard as he observed Talathel, a critical thinking pout across his face.
I am The Mother's Bookkeeper. You have not seen it yet, but I am the owner and runner of The 42nd Vault here in 42. And Alexis, here-
She interupted him to say she would introduce herself.
'I'm Alexis, of Alexis' Metallurgy! You need it, I can make it, no problem! Though some people like to under-cut me on price!'
What the Mother was TRYING to say, eh hem- Is that in order to uphold our deal with the Dominorum Empire, we will need more trade routes, as once your Empire gets a taste of this cities goods they are going to want more. A lot more. We require your help in all these things, before we can help you move on to what your Empire sent you here to really do- deal with Revelation.
If you have any questions, I'm here all night. The Mother and her lover are already indisposed to the wine, it seems.'
Sealith took a drink of water again having not even having time to actually eat. She had purified her food and drink but hadn't got to touch it yet.
Assassination? Telula thought in a minor panic. "Oh no, I'm fine. It's just the magic of this place caught me off guard is all." She answered the Tengu.
While having more of her food, she listened to the Mother, the two new arrivals, and listened carefully to what Sealith was translating to Vasu.
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Suzume's feather's ruffled as the Mother apparently heard his whispers to Telula.
Suzume sipped at his wine as the two entered. Ready for his third refill. He smiled, something about the Mother's drunken happiness, or perhaps the prospect of a new metalurgist.
"Gogrin. Pleasure to meet you." He snickered, not yet lightheaded from the drink. Suzume had once went on a pub crawl with three dwarves and a very rowdy gnome, he could drink twice this much before feeling wobbly. "Bookkeeper, eh? So it will be you in charge of putting our legend into written word?" He snickered again.
He turned to Alexis. "And metalurgy... I would loath to give up my own trusty sword, but would you be able to maybe enhance it. Admittedly, I have no fortune with me, but Beru gives some of the finest yak's milk this side of the empire."
He looked to Gogrin again. "I'll be sure to come to you for the questions, but surely you do not intend on staying sober this hole time. That's not in good spirits." He coughed into his sleeve.
He hummed deeper. "A revelation?"
"not right winter comes, this is bad, evil cold comes? could be an attack. How much flying to the broken wall Harks, days weeks hours?"
Sealith took a moment to catch a few precious bites of meat before speaking up.
"I am unfamiliar with Terra Nix as a whole, and indeed 42 for that matter. If it is possible Master Gogrin, could you get me a book with small excerpts about each and the history of this city as well. It doesn't have to be much. Just enough to know names and simple things. For all of my travels I never stopped to learn about the various places. I believe I will be needing such an item. If you may also leave plenty of space for notes, that would be appreciated."
Her eyes scanned the people across from her. The Mother, her Sabers, Gogrin and Alexis.
"We have multiple factions here. 42, The Dominorum, The Revelation, The Morte de Manu. 42 Is this city, small country. The Dominion is where we were from or hired out from. The Revelation, is a group from the lands of Morte de Manu. The focus of this conversation for now will be on the Revelation. They, have amassed forces, and a spy to attack you and try to take over the Angel-Oak. They are doing well enough you need help from an outside influence. They have killed a group of your Saber's and have remained undetected in this vast city where even the rats could speak to you and tell you. You do not believe it is from your court because the Son of Terrak will not betray the nature of this town. Is not the nature of the Angel Oak to keep you alive. If they do not intend on you dying and indeed believe this towns influence should be spread, would that alert the Angel-Oak? Do forgive me if these questions seem rude, but I am merely speculating on possible ways to be close to you without something noticing. Also, Gorgrin and Alexis here do not belong to the Son's. So would you be warned if it was them or someone able to assume their shape? It does not seem, by what you describe, that this group would want you dead. They need you in fact. What they need is your cooperation."
Taking a minute to pause she would ask. "How did they destroy an entire wall, and you still rebuff an invasion? Exactly how big is this place? What is it the Dominorum is demanding? How are we to help you set up or gather these things? What leads do you have on this infiltrator?"
Turning to Vasu she spoke.
"Ko ahau tauhou ki Terra Nix rite te katoa, a pono 42 mo taua mea. Ki te mea Gogrin taea te Kaiwhakaako, i taea e whiwhi koe he pukapuka ki ahau ki te wāhanga iti e pā ana ki ia me te hītori o tenei pa kia rite ki te pai. E kore e whai te reira e ki te nui. Just nui ki te mohio ingoa me nga mea ohie. E kore katoa o toku haerenga hoki ahau mutu ki te ako e pā ana ki te wahi ngā. Whakapono ana ahau e hinaaro e ahau he tūemi taua. Ki te nui o te wāhi mō ngā tuhipoka kia hoki waiho koutou, e kia mauruuru.
Matou i konei wehenga maha. 42, Te Dominorum, te Revelation, te Morte de Manu. 42 Ko tenei pa, whenua iti. Ko te Dominion ko te wahi i tatou i utua i roto i ranei. Ko te Revelation, ko te rōpū i te whenua o Morte de Manu. E te arotahi o tenei whakahaere mo inaianei i runga i te Revelation. Ratou, Kua huihuia he ope, me te tirohia ki te patu ia koe, ka ngana ki te tango i runga i te anahera-Oak. E mahi ana ratou i te pai nui te hiahia āwhina i te faaûruraa waho koe. Kua patua e ratou he rōpū o koutou o Saber me kua noho ngaro i roto i tenei pa nui i reira i taea e korero noa nga kiore ki a koutou, ka korero ki a koutou. E kore koe e whakapono ko reira i to koutou marae no te mea e kore te Tama a Terrak e tuku i te āhua o tenei pa. He teka ianei te āhua o te anahera Oak ki te pupuri koutou ora. Ki te kore e opua ratou ki runga ki a koe mate, me te pono whakapono kia horapa tenei pa faaururaa, e taua mataara te anahera-Oak? Kaua e muru ahau ki te mea ware i teie mau uiraa, engari ahau mata'tu noa ahau i runga i taea huarahi ki te kia tata ki a koutou, kahore te tahi mea fakatokanga'i. Ano, e kore e Gorgrin ko Alexis konei no ki te Tama a te. Na e whakatupato koe ki te ko reira ratou tangata taea ki te amo i to ratou āhua ranei? E kore e titiro te reira, i te mea whakaahua koutou, kia hiahia mate koe i tenei rōpū. Me ratou koutou i roto i te meka. He aha e hiahia ana ratou ko to koutou mahi tahi.
He pātai ka ui ahau enei.
Nafea whakangaromia ratou he taiepa katoa, a ka aro tonu koutou i te whakaekenga? Tofu pehea nui ko tenei wahi? He aha te reira te tono i te Dominorum? Me pēhea te e tatou ki te āwhina te whakatu e koe te kohikohi i enei mea ranei? Eaha te ahu e whai koutou i runga i tenei infiltrator?
E hiahia ana koe tetahi pātai o nga mea koutou ake ranei, ki te mea ki te rōpū rānei te Mother me ona hoa?"
We have multiple factions here. 42, The Dominorum, The Revelation, The Morte de Manu. 42 Is this city, small country. The Dominion is where we were from or hired out from. The Revelation, is a group from the lands of Morte de Manu. The focus of this conversation for now will be on the Revelation. They, have amassed forces, and a spy to attack you and try to take over the Angel-Oak. They are doing well enough you need help from an outside influence. They have killed a group of your Saber's and have remained undetected in this vast city where even the rats could speak to you and tell you. You do not believe it is from your court because the Son of Terrak will not betray the nature of this town. Is not the nature of the Angel Oak to keep you alive. If they do not intend on you dying and indeed believe this towns influence should be spread, would that alert the Angel-Oak? Do forgive me if these questions seem rude, but I am merely speculating on possible ways to be close to you without something noticing. Also, Gorgrin and Alexis here do not belong to the Son's. So would you be warned if it was them or someone able to assume their shape? It does not seem, by what you describe, that this group would want you dead. They need you in fact. What they need is your cooperation.
These are questions I asked.
How did they destroy an entire wall, and you still rebuff an invasion? Exactly how big is this place? What is it the Dominorum is demanding? How are we to help you set up or gather these things? What leads do you have on this infiltrator?
Any questions of your own or things you would like to say to the group or the Mother and her Companions?
Gogrin eyed Suzume with an almost insulted pause as he answered with a single blink No. Taking out a large bag full of what could only be platinum pieces, based on the bulge, he flicked it around and around and over in his hand, never taking his eyes of Suzume I handle the entire wealth of 42, it's legacy payments, and The Mother's personal accounts as well as traders like Alexis'. I am the flow of this city- Gogrin stopped the platinum filled pouch with a hand, letting the weight of the burlap brown and sagging bag swing for a moment before he finished with a small grin I am its Father.
There was a power hungry, yet loyal and stern face about Gogrin as he finished this sentence, packing away his bag of pieces as he moved onward with a long sigh over Alexis and the Mother's giggling and slowed dining as the spider monkeys brought out rounds and rounds of food.
There is indeed a library or two here in 42. The greatest one is my own personal collection, kept in the dust covered shelves of the attic of the 42nd Vault in my own version of a personalized safe.
As Sealith endearingly continued in her questions of 42, Gogrin
nodded with mirroring concern
We are unsure if the spy has their own motives, or if they are a hired hand from the inside from The Revelation. In regards to your points about the animals, well... Gogrin gave a quick glance towards Chelya and Binsk still getting kissy faces from The Mother and Alexis Not all are as intelligent or loyal as others. A beast is loyal to its master, first. Without knowing who its master is, we can't begin proper interrogations.
The Angel-Oak's magic is not like that of a stave, or a sorcerer formed into nature. It is truly only meant to run this town further and further with time. Though, yes, its beauty magnifies with time, as far as we can tell it only amplifies our agriculture- some of you may be attuned enough to feel its voice through out all of the city. Those are its actual branches, stemming from its trunk, feeding all else in this city. It protects it from the cold, but not a blade.
Gogrin flicked two fingers towards himself, encouraging one of the few spider monkeys to bring him a loaf of bread and what appeared to be some sort of ale. He ripped a chunk of the loaf off, dipped it into the drink, and after a few chomps continued as droplets fell onto his beard The destruction of the wall was, we believe, done from make shift visitors who attacked from the inside. The Revelation, being ancient based extremists, are capable of handling animals as well. Some of their beasts are even intelligent enough to speak in common, as foreign as that may sound. Obviously they have magic on their side- but you cannot prepare what you were not looking for.
And we did not expect an attack of such a level of strategy. When the animals told us they were feeling like something was on its way we made the mistake of expecting an army. Gogrin's glare became stern once again We will not make that mistake again.
In regards to you- you are all part of a trade deal negotiated with The Dominorum Empire. I appreciate your enthusiasm, my dear... But do not inflate your current status.
The Mother flicked a look at Gogrin and calmed him, reaching a hand around his shoulders with another kiss at his cheek Oh Gogrin. They are under my roof as guests- do not be insulting.
A quick pinch on the bookkeeper's shoulder instantly changed his attitude as far as could be told from his facial expression, but Alexis butted in as well, now spinning around, her tail flicking in the air and wrapping his shoulders across from The Mother Yeah Gogrin! After all, these guys are going to be making us quite a lot more money!
Alexis tore from Gogrin's loaf and sipped from his drink before he could react as she went on, mouth full and agape though no food spat anywhere as her jaws hacked away mid sentence
I'd be HAPPY to help you with your sword, Suzume! Any friend of The Mother is a friend of mine! As far as supplies, and where to find things, my dragonic friend...
Alexis took out a folded piece of parchment from within her top and sprawled it across the table as she continued- it was a list of inventory
I have nearly everything you need, and whatever I don't have, you can ask me for and I can order it from others here. Our communication is good, but we haven't had a fight for years, people are a bit rusty.
In regards to the wall, we'll need to organize a good mass of people to aid in rebuilding it, preferably with you guys managing the project as I look on from afar to control inventory. We need workers of all kinds- engineers, construction, hands for hire as look outs while our guards start their sweep of the city. The apes and sabers are good at fighting, but not so great at reconstruction if you get my drift! She giggled as she excitedly continued
Now Gogrin here is our funds and has permission from the Mother, so that's really just going to take some time to recruit people from the taverns as we vet them to be sure they aren't one of the ones who led the attack.
As far as the infiltrator, well, we have a feeling that while they may not be in the court... They're probably somewhere still on the east side of the border of 42, watching, waiting, ensuring that wall stays open for a real attack instead of a gimmick.
And for "being close to us without someone noticing", forget it- you guys are our bannermen. Our friends, our family for as long as you are here. You might be a part of a trade- She playfully nudges Gogrin before continuing But you are protecting the Mother and helping us restore and make better the city of 42. You'll even be in our history books!
It's only half a day for you, much shorter for us!
Comes back down and hears out what is being said.
Flys down and lands close to the dwarf, looks around at the two new comers, then takes a seat on a salt pot. He smiles.
"You know we Fay love out games and tricks, few play such political shenanigans as us. You could say its out national sport. So lets cut to the chase shall we, mother dear and helpers. Your not telling us everything now are you, the animals know that there is an unnatural cold coming Humm. See something has struck me, why a bloody big wall around you lands. I mean we and others are close to nature, and we use no walls. No not for us, we use a deep dark wood, much better, let attackers and invaders walk into it, a place of traps, ambushes, illusions and dread magic. In the lands of the fay have been attacked often yet none last long. Weed them out, pick them off, after a while let a few get out, back to tell others of the deadly dreams that walk in the fey woods. We are not unusual in this most things of nature use the lands they live in as weapons to protect them. Yet here you use a wall, a thing that humans or dwarfs would construct, not of plant but stone yes, cold dead stone. But why not a living wall of trees or plants, Why? why not use the wild land as your defense. I suspect its because its not just a mundane wall is it? its like the formal gardens here, its part of a your magic, part of a defense or protection, a massive linked rune of some kind keeping out, what humm something. Could it be this cold that the Animals fear is coming, this winter that you all feel. If that is true then this was a tactical strike on you main magical defense. A targeted hit that is meant to weaken you ready for a bigger incursion. Its way you want this wall back up as fast as you can and why you sort outside help in protecting the building work. Interesting, your probably thinking it could even be the voice seeking to weaken you and place you in its debt as long with thinking it could well as some outside force, as yet not fully known. Humm"
He Crossed his legs.
"So this is part of a well designed a thought out plan. If that is true then your response has been factored in, I would suspect they are counting on you doing just what you are doing now. In other words you are walking into their plans even deeper."
Stands up.
"If it was me, I would be looking into doing what they don't expect. Put them on the off foot. A breach in a wall is a useful thing if you know how to use it. Because you will know just where they will come in, and that has its own tactical use."
walks back an forth,
"One thing I think we need to look at, how, how your Cats where killed and where. It should not take long but it may tell us a lot more than you may think. Any action leaves hints of other things, the more we know at this stage the more we can plan. So how about you show us the poor dead things and let is see where they where killed, as we head to your wall."
He stops and takes off again.
Telula listened carefully as everything was explained and particularly to the Atomie's theory. I guess that makes sense. She thought to herself as Lord Perpireen flew off again.
Helping herself to a little more food and water, the Majar then asked, "Is what he theorized true? Is the wall important to your magic?"
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"Ah, so you are a banker. Where I am from, those who keep the books are called bookkeepers, and those who keep the money are the ones who rob the banks" He snickereed.
"Would you be able to recognize these 'visitors'? Anything to set them apart from the rest of the populace, or did they leave when the job is done? Also, and I hate to throw accusations." he eyed a spider monkey suspiciously. "You do not suppose that the Revelation and their magic over animals could could have given them the means to put spy amongst them, do you?"
He listenned to Lord Perpireen's speech, savvy, then immediately flighty as he flew off, then Telula's question.
"You would be able to tell, wouldn't you, Telula?" He turned back to the three hosts. "Would it be possible that the wall and and the tree were link in what way? Either way, milord is right on one front. Where were your cats killed?"
"Could one merely ask it to return to its master, or point out without them by their master's side that they are weaker. Most animals while loyal, are often simpleminded. Even if it won't show you the way when it knows you are there, it could be easily followed."
Carefully she would pick meat off the plates moving around her. Always careful to not grab a plate or glass. Indeed, she didn't even get to enjoy drinking water for fear of breaking the cup and spilling it everywhere. Anyone watching her for any length of time could see how delicate she was being. Not even accepting a chair. The hide sack her trade bars had come in were at her feet, the sack torn and holes in it already just from their walk here.
The good meats she would point out to those looking at her as if giving her stamp of approval. Her sharp teeth easily able to tear through them. Though she was polite and lowered her head slightly. Human's often found it disconcerting to watch her tear meat up as she ate it. Licking her lips after a moment she would continue.
"I am not inflating my status and I think it is funny you believe so Father Gorgin. We are all painfully aware that we are nothing but pawns in the political game. Pieces to be used and traded so the Dominion can get what it wants. That being said, we were hired for a job. Currently we are being tested by the Dominion to see if we can accomplish said job. So we were sent here. You also want us for a job, but are also testing us. Should we not show you what we are capable of and how we think and provide other ways of thinking. Sure, if you wish us to be polite and hold back, I am sure that will in no way hinder us."
Her tone was gentle and in not way condescending. Just a gentle rebuke. It was clear she didn't take offense to his insult. It was best not to after all.
"Also, other teams before us have failed in the job assigned to them by the Dominion. Those far more experienced than us, but also, I doubt they were anything like us. We hold true to ourselves and even when threatened with death from the Speaker himself did we quit being who we were. Did any of those teams happen to come here or were they sent by the Dominion to go else where and deal with another problem that they are grooming us for?"
Pausing Sealith would turn to Alexis as she spoke. Listening she would politely step forward to look at the inventory while being careful not to touch anyone or anything.
"So we would be the active components, recruiting and sizing people up, all the while giving the spy a chance to infiltrate the teams we are building in the hopes of flushing him out? There is some wisdom to that. Though, we will see how much in the end. I know very little about engineering and construction to be honest. I am better at breaking things and healing people. But I do not see it as a bad thing that we go out and try to find people to help you. This city is huge, and it would take many days to visit even a small section of town. How many people exactly are you looking at needing. After all, if it is truly an entire wall of one side of the city is breached then it would need thousands of workers. If a smaller section then less."
Looking between them all she wondered for a moment. "I believe Perpireen hit the nail on the head. That is such a strange human saying. Anyways, if the roots of the tree hold the magic, then reconstruct the defenses magically underground. Use the plants and the animals you have. Remake this wall in a different living fashion. Just an idea. Horticulture is the art of making plants do things you wish, but also in the art of arranging them in unexpected and pleasing ways, to either draw the eye, or give them more strength. The fact plants, die, and can renew themselves with each spring tells of the power they had hidden in their roots. Use that same power. Stone is cold and unliving. But, there are things that can grow on stone and make it living in of itself. Even if plants are trampled on by an army, their roots still live under their feet. No one ever pays attention to plants and what they notice around them, or that they are even there half the time. "
She then turns to Vasu and starts to translate for her.
'Hapai i ahau te taonga katoa o 42, te reira utu tutuuraa, me kaute whaiaro te Mother o me te kaihokohoko rite Alexis'. Ko ahau te rere o tenei pa, ko ahau ona Matua.
He he pukapuka e rua i konei i roto i te 42. ranei ko toku ake kohinga whaiaro te kotahi rahi pono, i pupuri i roto i te whata puehu hipoki o te fungavaka o te 42nd Vault i roto i toku putanga ake o te whaiaro haumaru.
E mōhio matou ki te ratou ake turai te tutei, ranei, ki te he e ratou te kaimahi i te roto i te Apokalupo. I roto i te pā ki a koutou ngā pā ana ki te kararehe, pai ... Ehara katoa e rite maramarama mateaki pera me era atu ranei. He kararehe he mateaki ki tona ariki, te tuatahi. Kahore he mohio ki te tangata tona ariki ko, e kore e taea e tatou e haamata Faka'eke'eke tika.
E kore te makutu te anahera-Oak o rite e o te ahoaho, he makutu i hanga ki te āhua rānei. Te reira te mau anake auraa hei whakahaere i tēnei pa atu me anō ki te wā. Ahakoa, ae ra, Ka whakanui tona ataahua ki te wa, tae noa ki nehenehe tatou e korero te reira ee faarahi ho'ii anake to tatou agriculture- etahi o koutou kia fakaongoongo ai nui ia ite ona reo i roto i roto i te katoa o te pa. Te hunga e ona manga tūturu, stemming i tona kātua, te kai atu katoa i roto i tenei pa. Tiaki te reira i te reira i te matao, engari e kore e he whakangaromanga o te taiepa blade.The ko, e whakapono ana tatou, mahi i ngā manuhiri hanga neke nei whakaekea i te roto. Ko te Revelation, te extremists hāngai tahito, he pakari o te whāwhā kararehe rite te pai. Etahi o ratou kararehe e noa maramarama nui ki te korero i roto i noa, kia rite ki ke rite tangi ai e. Oia mau i makutu ratou i runga i to ratou side- otiia e kore koe e taea e ia faaineine te mea i a koutou e kore e rapu ana hoki.
A kihai tatou i titau i te whakaeke o te taua taumata o te rautaki. A ka korerotia ki nga kararehe ia tatou i rite te mea mana'o ratou ko i runga i tona ara hanga e matou te hape o tatari te ope.
E kore e meinga e ano e matou i taua hape.
I roto i te pā ki a koe he koe wahi katoa o te mahi hokohoko ngā ki te Dominorum Empire. '
Te mauruuru nei ia toku āwangawanga engari e kore e hiahia ana pamû ahau to tatou mana.
Interjects te whaea
'Aue Gogrin. Ko ratou ki raro i toku tuanui rite kore e guests- e kino. '
Alexis inaianei interjects
'Io Gogrin! I muri i te katoa, e haere enei takatu hanga ki te kia i te atu rota moni rawa tatou!
Hiahia kia ahau HAPPY ki te āwhina ia koe ki tau hoari, Suzume! Ko te hoa o toku tetahi hoa o te Mother! Pera i te matara kai, me te wahi ki te kitea nga mea, toku hoa dragonic ...
Kua ahau tata katoa e hiahia ana koe, a ka mea katoa e kore e ahau i, ka taea e koe te tono ki ahau mo a taea te tono ahau i te reira i ētahi atu i konei. He pai to tatou kōrero, engari kihai i tatou i te whawhai mo te tau, he he bit faaiti iwi.
I roto i te pā ki te taiepa, ka ti'a ia tatou ki te whakarite i te puranga pai o te iwi ki te āwhina i roto i te hanga i te reira, arā ki a koutou ko eé whakahaere i te kaupapa rite titiro ahau i runga i i tawhiti ki te whakahaere rārangi. E hinaaro tatou i kaimahi o nga mea katoa kinds- Engineers, hanga, ringa mo te utu rite omanga titiro i tīmata i to tatou kaitiaki ratou tahitahi o te pa. He pai i whawhai, engari e kore e pera te nui i te hanga anō i te makimaki, me sabers ki te whiwhi koe toku tere!
Na ko Gogrin konei tatou moni, me he whakaaetanga i te mama, na e tino te haere noa ki te tango i etahi wa ki te kimi iwi i te Wharetoru rite tatou vet ki a ratou kia mohio e kore e ratou tetahi o te hunga e arahi i te whakaeke.
Pera i te matara o te infiltrator, pai, to tatou he ongo e ia kore ai ratou i roto i te marae ... ratou kei pea vahi tonu i runga i te taha ki te rawhiti o te rohe o 42, e matakitaki ana, e tatari ana, whakarite e taiepa te noho puare tonu he whakaeke tūturu utu o te gimmick.
A mo "te tata ki a matou, kahore te tangata fakatokanga'i", wareware reira- koutou ko eé ko matou bannermen. To tatou mau hoa, to tatou utuafare no te rite te roa rite e konei koe. Kia waiho ai e koe te wahi o te hokohoko Ko e tiaki koutou te Mother me te tautururaa whakahokia matou, ka hanga pai te pa o 42. ka ara kia koe i roto i to tatou pukapuka hītori! '
I te mea ke hoki ki a ia te mea e ko etahi iwi e hiahia ki te pupuri i taua tika i te aamu. Kia tatou koati, katapaea rawe katoa ranei. E kore matou e mohio ki ta ratou titiro te kahore tatou e ora oraraa tino roa.
Peripeen te mea
'E mohio ana koe Fay tatou i te here i roto i ngā kēmu me tinihanga, torutoru tākaro pērā shenanigans tōrangapū rite tatou. I taea mea e koe ona i roto i te hākinakina motu. Na ka taea tapahia ki te whai me tatou, whaea aroha me kaiāwhina. Inaianei ko koe tou kore korero matou nga mea katoa, e mohio ana nga kararehe e te vai nei te matao te ngau ke e haere mai Humm. Tirohia te kua patua ahau te tahi mea, he aha nga whenua he taiepa toto nui a tawhio noa koutou. Te tikanga e ahau e tatou, me ētahi atu tata ki te āhua, me te whakamahi i tatou kahore taiepa. No kore hoki matou, e faaohipa tatou i te rakau pouri hohonu, nui pai, kia hoariri, me whakaeke haere ki reira, hei wahi o rore, pehipehi, kākaá te tuiri me te makutu. I roto i nga whenua o te Fay kua huakina maha ano tetahi whakamutunga roa. I aua taru, te tiki ia ratou atu, i muri i te i tukua he torutoru haere atu ki waho, hoki ki te korero ki etahi atu o nga moe whakamate e haere i roto i te ngahere Fey. E kore e matou rerekē i roto i tenei te nuinga o te natura mea whakamahi i te whenua e ora ratou i roto i rite patu ki te tiaki ia ratou. Heoi konei whakamahi koe i te taiepa, he mea e taata e aore e hanga a We, e kore o te tipu, engari kohatu ae, kohatu matao mate. Otiia he aha e kore i te taiepa ora ranei o te rakau tipu, te aha? he aha e kore e whakamahi i te whenua mohoao rite ki to koutou korero. Te mana'o nei e ahau ona no te ona e kore noa i te taiepa mea mataro te reira? ona rite i te kari ōkawa konei, tona wahi o te au mahi makutu, wahi o te korero tiaki ranei, he Rune hono nui o etahi ahua te haapa'oraa i roto i, he aha humm te tahi mea. Taea e te reira tenei matao e wehi nga Animals kei te haere mai, tenei hotoke koutou e ongo'i katoa. Ki te mea he pono te reira i ko i te patu rauhanga i runga i matua koutou korero porehu tenei. He hit hāngai auraa e te ki te haaparuparu rite koe mo te tomo mai nui. Ko tōna ara e hiahia ana koe i tenei taiepa hoki ake ano nohopuku rite taea e koe, me he aha koutou ahua waho tauturu i roto i te tiaki i te mahi hanga. Interesting, koutou pea fakakaukau taea e ara e te reira te reo e whai ana ki te haaparuparu koe, ka tuu koe i roto i tona nama rite te roa ki te whakaaro i taea e pai pera me etahi ope i waho, kihai i rite ki ano i mohiotia kakato reira. Humm '
Na ko te hangaia wahi o te puna te mahere whakaaro i roto i tenei. Ki te mea he pono te ka oti ngä kua tō whakautu i roto i taua, e whakapae ahau e tatau ratou ki runga ki a koe te mahi tika te mea e mahi koe i teie nei. I roto i te mau parau atu e haere ana koe ki o ratou mahere noa hohonu.
Ki te ko reira ahau, e te titiro ahau ki te mahi te mea e kore ratou e e mahara. Whakamaharatia ratou i runga i te waewae atu. He pakaru i roto i te taiepa ko te mea whai hua ki te matau ana koe ki te whakamahi i te reira. No te mea ka mohio koe tika te wahi e haere mai ratou i roto i, me e he ona ake whakamahi rauhanga.
Kotahi te mea e ahau whakaaro e ti'a ia tatou ki te titiro i, pehea, pehea koutou ngeru i reira patua a wahi. E kore e tangohia te reira roa, engari he rota neke atu i te kia whakaaro koe kia korerotia e te reira ia tatou. Tetahi mahi rau tīwhiri o te tahi atu mau mea, i te atu e matau ana tatou i tenei atamira te atu e nehenehe tatou e te whakamahere. Na me pehea e pā ana ki te whakaatu koe ki a matou i te mea mate rawakore, me te kia ko kite i te wahi i reira ratou e patua, rite upoko tatou ki tou taiepa. '
Kei te tukurua Telula he moka te pātai taua.
'He aha theorized ia pono? Ko te taiepa nui ki au mahi makutu? '
'Aue, kia ko koe te tuaana. Hea ahau i, te hunga e pupuri e huaina bookkeepers nga pukapuka, me te hunga e pupuri i te moni e te hunga e muru ana i te tahatika,
Whakaaro ahau te tikanga ia ki te mea e te hunga e rere pareparenga tahae moni iwi. Kua rongo ahau i taua tangata ware o te aroaro o.
Manuhiri '' taea ki te ite i enei E waiho koe '? Tetahi mea ki te whakaturia ratou motu ke i te toenga o te iwi, ranei i waiho e ratou, no te mahi o te mahi te? Ano, a ka kino ahau ki te maka pariraa. E kore koe e whakaaro e te Revelation me to ratou makutu mo te kararehe i taea e taea e kua hoatu ratou nga tikanga ki te hoatu tirohia roto ia ratou, te mea i a koutou? '
E konei ia he wāhi tika. Ko reira tino taea to ratou dependance i runga i o ratou kararehe i nga mea katoa hanga whakaraerae ratou rawa.
'E koe e taea ki te korero ki, e kore e pai koutou, Telula? E te mea e ahei i hono i te ara i te taiepa, me, me te rakau? Ranei ara, ko milord tika i runga i tetahi mua. Hea i tou ngeru patua? '
Enei i toku kōrero.
Kotahi ui reira taea noa ki te hoki ki tona ariki, ranei te tohu i roto i waho a ratou i te taha o to ratou ariki e ngoikore ratou. Te nuinga o te kararehe i mateaki, kei te maha kuwaretanga. Ahakoa, ki te kore e whakaatu ki a koutou i te ara, ina mohio te reira e koe i reira, i taea te ngāwari whai reira.
E kore ahau e pamû ahau toku mana, me te whakaaro e ahau he mea rerekē whakapono koe na te Matua Gorgin. Ko matou mauiui mōhio tetahi mea, engari pawns i roto i te kēmu tōrangapū e tatou katoa. Pieces ki te whakamahi, hokohokona kia taea te tiki i te Dominion te mea e hinaaro te reira. Ko te mea, i utua matou mo te mahi. Tēnei wā, e tamatahia tatou e te Dominion ki te kite, ki te faaoti i taea e mahi mea matou. Na i tonoa atu e tatou i konei. E hiahia ana koe ano tatou mo te mahi, engari e whakamatautau ia tatou ano hoki. Kaua e whakaaturia matou a koutou te mea e nehenehe o matou, me pehea e whakaaro ai tatou, ka whakarato i ētahi atu ara o te whakaaro. Papau, ki te hiahia matou ki a koutou ki te kia faatura, me te pupuri hoki, e mohio ana ahau e hinaaro i roto i kahore ara arai ia tatou.
Ano, kua rahua i roto i te mahi i whakaritea ki a ratou e te Dominion atu kapa i mua i a tatou. Te hunga i tawhiti atu mātanga atu tatou, engari ano hoki, i ngakau rua ahau i ratou tetahi mea rite tatou. Pono mau tatou ia tatou iho, a tae noa, no te whakatuma ki te mate i te Tumuaki i ia te haukoti matou te i matou. I tupu tetahi o aua kapa ki te haere mai ki konei i tonoa e ratou i te Dominion ki te haere atu i reira, ka mahi ki tetahi raruraru e te poipoi i ratou ia tatou no te ranei?
Na e tatou nga wāhanga hohe, whakatū, me te türanga iwi ake, i nga ra katoa e hoatu i te tutei i te whai wāhi ki te urutomo i te kapa kei te hanga matou i roto i te tumanako o te Makere ia ki waho? He ētahi whakaaro nui ki taua. Ahakoa, ka kite tatou i te nui i roto i te mutunga. E mohio ana ahau nui atu iti e pā ana ki engineering, me te hanga ki te faitotonu. Ko ahau pai i whawhati mea, me te whakaora i te iwi. Otiia e kore ahau e kite i reira he mea kino e haere tatou i roto i, me te ngana ki te kitea te iwi ki te āwhina ia koe pera. Ko te nui tenei pa, a e tangohia te reira maha nga ra ki te haere ki ara he wāhanga iti o te pa. Hia te taata rite e rapu ana koutou i hinaaro. I muri i te katoa, ki te mea pono takahia te taiepa katoa o tetahi taha o te pa te reira e hiahia reira mano o nga kaimahi. Ki te he wāhanga iti ka iti.
Whakapono ahau Perpireen patua te titi i runga i te matenga. Ko te taua ke tangata korero. Anyways, ki te mau te pakiaka o te rakau te makutu, ka waihanga anō i te pa oi'oi raro. Whakamahia te tipu me te kararehe i a koutou. Remake tenei taiepa i roto i te ahua ora rerekē. Just he whakaaro. Horticulture Ko te toi o te tipu e rave mea e hiahia ana koe, engari ano hoki i roto i te toi o te whakarite ia ratou i roto i te ara ohorere, me te reka, ki te utu rānei te kanohi, hoatu ki a ratou ake kaha ranei. Ko te tipu meka, mate, a taea te whakahou ia ratou ki ia puna parau o te mana i ratou huna i roto i to ratou pakiaka. Whakamahia taua mana taua. Ko te makariri, me te unliving Stone. Ko, i reira he mea e taea e tupu i runga i te kohatu, me te hanga ora i te reira i roto i o iho. Ahakoa te mea e takahia ngā tipu i runga i te taha i te ope, e ora tonu o ratou pakiaka i raro io ratou waewae. Kahore he tangata e ake utu aro ki te tipu, me te aha ratou e kite a tawhio noa ratou, ranei e ratou te hawhe te wa noa i reira.
There is indeed a library or two here in 42. The greatest one is my own personal collection, kept in the dust covered shelves of the attic of the 42nd Vault in my own version of a personalized safe.
We are unsure if the spy has their own motives, or if they are a hired hand from the inside from The Revelation. In regards to your points about the animals, well... Not all are as intelligent or loyal as others. A beast is loyal to its master, first. Without knowing who its master is, we can't begin proper interrogations.
The Angel-Oak's magic is not like that of a stave, or a sorcerer formed into nature. It is truly only meant to run this town further and further with time. Though, yes, its beauty magnifies with time, as far as we can tell it only amplifies our agriculture- some of you may be attuned enough to feel its voice through out all of the city. Those are its actual branches, stemming from its trunk, feeding all else in this city. It protects it from the cold, but not a blade.The destruction of the wall was, we believe, done from make shift visitors who attacked from the inside. The Revelation, being ancient based extremists, are capable of handling animals as well. Some of their beasts are even intelligent enough to speak in common, as foreign as that may sound. Obviously they have magic on their side- but you cannot prepare what you were not looking for.
And we did not expect an attack of such a level of strategy. When the animals told us they were feeling like something was on its way we made the mistake of expecting an army.
We will not make that mistake again.
In regards to you- you are all part of a trade deal negotiated with The Dominorum Empire. '
He appreciates my concern but doesn't want me inflating our status.
The mother interjects
'Oh Gogrin. They are under my roof as guests- do not be insulting.'
Alexis now interjects
'Yeah Gogrin! After all, these guys are going to be making us quite a lot more money!
I'd be HAPPY to help you with your sword, Suzume! Any friend of The Mother is a friend of mine! As far as supplies, and where to find things, my dragonic friend...
I have nearly everything you need, and whatever I don't have, you can ask me for and I can order it from others here. Our communication is good, but we haven't had a fight for years, people are a bit rusty.
In regards to the wall, we'll need to organize a good mass of people to aid in rebuilding it, preferably with you guys managing the project as I look on from afar to control inventory. We need workers of all kinds- engineers, construction, hands for hire as look outs while our guards start their sweep of the city. The apes and sabers are good at fighting, but not so great at reconstruction if you get my drift!
Now Gogrin here is our funds and has permission from the Mother, so that's really just going to take some time to recruit people from the taverns as we vet them to be sure they aren't one of the ones who led the attack.
As far as the infiltrator, well, we have a feeling that while they may not be in the court... They're probably somewhere still on the east side of the border of 42, watching, waiting, ensuring that wall stays open for a real attack instead of a gimmick.
And for "being close to us without someone noticing", forget it- you guys are our bannermen. Our friends, our family for as long as you are here. You might be a part of a trade But you are protecting the Mother and helping us restore and make better the city of 42. You'll even be in our history books!'
It is strange for her to say that but some people do wish to keep that accurate a history. We may be scape goats or heros. We will never know in their eyes unless we live very long lives.
Peripeen is saying
'You know we Fay love out games and tricks, few play such political shenanigans as us. You could say its out national sport. So lets cut to the chase shall we, mother dear and helpers. Your not telling us everything now are you, the animals know that there is an unnatural cold coming Humm. See something has struck me, why a bloody big wall around you lands. I mean we and others are close to nature, and we use no walls. No not for us, we use a deep dark wood, much better, let attackers and invaders walk into it, a place of traps, ambushes, illusions and dread magic. In the lands of the fay have been attacked often yet none last long. Weed them out, pick them off, after a while let a few get out, back to tell others of the deadly dreams that walk in the fey woods. We are not unusual in this most things of nature use the lands they live in as weapons to protect them. Yet here you use a wall, a thing that humans or dwarfs would construct, not of plant but stone yes, cold dead stone. But why not a living wall of trees or plants, Why? why not use the wild land as your defense. I suspect its because its not just a mundane wall is it? its like the formal gardens here, its part of a your magic, part of a defense or protection, a massive linked rune of some kind keeping out, what humm something. Could it be this cold that the Animals fear is coming, this winter that you all feel. If that is true then this was a tactical strike on you main magical defense. A targeted hit that is meant to weaken you ready for a bigger incursion. Its way you want this wall back up as fast as you can and why you sort outside help in protecting the building work. Interesting, your probably thinking it could even be the voice seeking to weaken you and place you in its debt as long with thinking it could well as some outside force, as yet not fully known. Humm'
So this is part of a well designed a thought out plan. If that is true then your response has been factored in, I would suspect they are counting on you doing just what you are doing now. In other words you are walking into their plans even deeper.
If it was me, I would be looking into doing what they don't expect. Put them on the off foot. A breach in a wall is a useful thing if you know how to use it. Because you will know just where they will come in, and that has its own tactical use.
One thing I think we need to look at, how, how your Cats where killed and where. It should not take long but it may tell us a lot more than you may think. Any action leaves hints of other things, the more we know at this stage the more we can plan. So how about you show us the poor dead things and let is see where they where killed, as we head to your wall.'
Telula is repeating a bit the same question.
'Is what he theorized true? Is the wall important to your magic?'
'Ah, so you are a banker. Where I am from, those who keep the books are called bookkeepers, and those who keep the money are the ones who rob the banks'
I think he means to say that those that run banks steal peoples money. I have heard of such dishonorable people before.
'Would you be able to recognize these 'visitors'? Anything to set them apart from the rest of the populace, or did they leave when the job is done? Also, and I hate to throw accusations. You do not suppose that the Revelation and their magic over animals could could have given them the means to put spy amongst them, do you?'
He has a valid point here. It is quite possible their dependance on their animals in all things makes them vulnerable too.
'You would be able to tell, wouldn't you, Telula? Would it be possible that the wall and and the tree were link in what way? Either way, milord is right on one front. Where were your cats killed?'
These were my comments.
Could one merely ask it to return to its master, or point out without them by their master's side that they are weaker. Most animals while loyal, are often simpleminded. Even if it won't show you the way when it knows you are there, it could be easily followed.
I am not inflating my status and I think it is funny you believe so Father Gorgin. We are all painfully aware that we are nothing but pawns in the political game. Pieces to be used and traded so the Dominion can get what it wants. That being said, we were hired for a job. Currently we are being tested by the Dominion to see if we can accomplish said job. So we were sent here. You also want us for a job, but are also testing us. Should we not show you what we are capable of and how we think and provide other ways of thinking. Sure, if you wish us to be polite and hold back, I am sure that will in no way hinder us.
Also, other teams before us have failed in the job assigned to them by the Dominion. Those far more experienced than us, but also, I doubt they were anything like us. We hold true to ourselves and even when threatened with death from the Speaker himself did we quit being who we were. Did any of those teams happen to come here or were they sent by the Dominion to go else where and deal with another problem that they are grooming us for?
So we would be the active components, recruiting and sizing people up, all the while giving the spy a chance to infiltrate the teams we are building in the hopes of flushing him out? There is some wisdom to that. Though, we will see how much in the end. I know very little about engineering and construction to be honest. I am better at breaking things and healing people. But I do not see it as a bad thing that we go out and try to find people to help you. This city is huge, and it would take many days to visit even a small section of town. How many people exactly are you looking at needing. After all, if it is truly an entire wall of one side of the city is breached then it would need thousands of workers. If a smaller section then less.
I believe Perpireen hit the nail on the head. That is such a strange human saying. Anyways, if the roots of the tree hold the magic, then reconstruct the defenses magically underground. Use the plants and the animals you have. Remake this wall in a different living fashion. Just an idea. Horticulture is the art of making plants do things you wish, but also in the art of arranging them in unexpected and pleasing ways, to either draw the eye, or give them more strength. The fact plants, die, and can renew themselves with each spring tells of the power they had hidden in their roots. Use that same power. Stone is cold and unliving. But, there are things that can grow on stone and make it living in of itself. Even if plants are trampled on by an army, their roots still live under their feet. No one ever pays attention to plants and what they notice around them, or that they are even there half the time.
The Mother finally stopped giggling and exchanged a serious look with her two advisors.
With a purse of her lips, she waved away the spider monkeys and others in the room aside from her two pets-
Once the movement quieted down, she began to speak softly and silently, as if it were a conspiracy A relationship between the animals here in 42 and their "masters" is not like what I have with Chelya and Binsk. It is similar to the function of the Angel Oak.
The Angel Oak amplifies the magic here in 42, it hums above the burial grounds of all the past Sons of Terrak, from their first heir to their last heir. We have a special bond with it, and that blooms into more and more power here as time goes on.
Our beasts, however, do not answer to us. Or rather... They do, and they do not. Chelya and Binsk answer directly to me, but the enforcers, the sabers, the hawks, they are a different relationship because of their intelligence from the tree. So while they serve 42, they can be tampered with.
This is why I am to remain at the Angel Oak for so long each day- I am an amplifier of their senses, their intelligence, and the Angel Oaks magic throughout this great city. But... If someone were to tamper.. with the magic...
The Mother's eyes began to go faint and blink slowly, her tongue moving as if her mouth still had bread in it. Alexis and Gogrin quickly rushed over to The Mother, hoisting her up as Gogrin barked above Sons! The Mother is tired! Take her to her bed!
Gogrin looked at Alexis with deep concern, as she returned it with a wide eyed stare before turning to the group The more the Mother puts into the magic here, the more tired she becomes when she leaves the Angel Oak. We have been trying to find the person tampering with the energy and the animals here, and we have been investigating them... But all the hawks talk about is something coming, and no one else feels it.
When Revelation, or, rather, the infiltrators attacked the wall, the animals were aware of it and with it in our search for them. The infiltrator is most likely able to either hide among the animals in some sort of disguise, or can hide their scent. We are unsure...
Gogrin put a palm to his tensed head before turning to Sealith I apologize for snapping. We mean it... The Mother means it when we say we accept you all as friends. It has been a long week since the wall was breached... The Mother grows more and more tired from it.
Gogrin turned to the Fay with his head cocked and a smile as he continued to sigh I am relieved, however, to see another politician in our midst. A critical thinker, at that. I should not have been surprised- you are correct, Lord McGibel. The wall is stone and tree combined; it has roots and vines from the Angel Oak that are the very structure the stone sits upon. While destroying the wall doesn't really interrupt the magic of the Angel Oak, it does leave us exposed, and, I'm assuming, allows animals near there to be tampered with as well.
This is the trend we have seen in the saber deaths, too- they have all been killed within only a few hundred feet of the wall breach. But we still have not been able to link anything to anyone. This is a great, and disappointing failure. Gogrin took a long pause, hiding his face as he turned slightly from the group-
It is clear that Gogrin is highly upset, and a single tear streaks the dwarf's face as he realizes the depth of his failure in protecting the Mother.
Alexis gave Gogrin a kiss on his head with a warm, embracing hug as she turned to the group You must realize, we... Are not akin to being friendly with outsiders. I assure you, Sealith, but the situation is correct. The Dominorum Empire wants our goods- and we refused to do so until we could figure out just exactly how to protect our Angel Oak.
Now, in regards to how many people we need, well- It was clear the tiefling was going to get excited again This crew will need to be HUGE! Almost any basic hand can do it, cause I can direct the reconstruction, but I have other duties that call me away from recruitment.
I believe 12 people should be more than enough, in addition to you guys, to aid in reinforcing the wall. Gogrin can help you with the funds, and I can give you the management and supplies.
I like your idea, Lord McGibel, of making our defense system better. We will coordinate that with The Mother after she has awoken tomorrow morning in the Angel Oak.
You two, at least then, will come with me tomorrow morning near the Vault and examine the bodies of the Sabers. Gogrin has kept them locked up in a cool room to keep them from decaying.
If that is all, I bid you both good night- don't worry about where you are sleeping, this little guy Another pouty face emerged at a spider monkey that had just dropped down onto Alexis' shoulder will show you to the inn you will be staying at! Don't worry, if you aren't tired there are PLENTY of ways to entertain yourselves for the rest of the night Alexis gave a particularly blatant wink at Suzume as she turned with Gogrin to leave, before turning back to see something most curious Er, Chelya? Binsk?
Chelya and Binsk had entered and stayed in the room, each one sitting right next to and purring up against Vasu. Looks like they want you to go with the Mother, owl-kin.