Wrath of the Righteous (Inactive)

Game Master NielsenE

Please dot or begin RP when selected. It is a week before the celebration of Armasse which will be the actual kick off.

Dot.

D O T

Dot!

Dot here as well.
I'll kick off with the little halfling feet on GM's request for RP.
(One of the best parts imo)

Dotting

Walking through the streets of Kenabres before the dawn was an odd habit, but then, Baradesh mused, most considered him an odd Dwarf. The walk helped to settle his mind before the morning prayers. And it made him fee useful - the city was well guarded, of course, but an extra pair of eyes scouring the streets never hurt. Especially when those eyes could see in the dark.

Baradesh was a recent arrival in the city, awaiting his first assignment, something suitable for a freshly forged Paladin. His unique abilities might mean a more unique position, but time would tell. Still, he felt...awkward. This was a new city, with new people, and even his fellows here felt foreign and off. There was so much talk among some of them, of witches and burnings, that it made him feel awkward. Fortunately not many of them knew him, and took his quiet attitude as typical Dwarven reticence.

Knowing that corruption was present was one thing, but to hear the talk it was much worse than Baradesh had assumed. But then, he had also seen odd glances from the citizens at his holy symbol, and outright fear at the different vestments the Witch Hunters wore. Baradesh hoped he wouldn't be assigned to help them - but he would do his duty as ordered.

Andanan was heartened that the greetings he received as his heavy footfalls took him closer and closer to Kenabres seemed to be more and more tolerant. He had heard that the Crusades were a focal point for warriors from almost all of the sentient races of the Inner Sea Region and it seemed that the rural folk in this land were, for the most part, much more used to a strange breed of traveller. He had stayed on at the large farmhouse twelve miles or so from Kenabres for far longer than he had intended; simply because for the first time since he had been subjected to the ritual, he had felt accepted. His place in Vudran had been denoted by his caste. A middle caste, the young man had felt absolutely assured with his simple duties as both a labourer and a servant in the local temple. The farmhands hardly gave him a second glance after the first day or two; despite his earthy form that was quite clearly no longer Human they were fine folk who only judged him on his contribution to the work; and Andanan had always been a hard worker.

Perhaps from force of habit or simply from his nervous apprehension of the city folk inside, Andanan performed his customary habit of pulling up the hood on his travelling robes; and he kept his head bowed. To most people, he was just an ordinary traveller entering the city; but a discerning eye would have caught the glint of sunlight reflecting from the thin layer of gemstone that covered Andanan's once-fragile eyes.

People have been flocking to Kenabres and the city is almost bursting at the seams. The holy crusade mission of the city normally keeps the inhabitant's demeanor on the more reserved side, but in the week leading to Armasse the city is more joyous than usual. Long-time inhabitant's are acting a little more free and easy. Between the flow of new people, a lessening of the witchhunts, and the anticipation of the festival, people are forgetting the demon threat and just living.

The city gates are swarmed as pilgrims enter the city. Guards have been doubled, even tripled at times and members of holy orders walk among the pilgrims seeking to enter; a few are pulled aside for questioning, but most just walk through after being asked their name and reason for coming.

Andanan, as he waits his turn, overhears many answers of "Here for the festival" and "To fight demons." which the guards appear bored by. The guards appear slightly taken aback by Andanan's appearance, but after a quick look to the shining knight behind them who nods, they simply ask his name and business, returning to bored indifference after their initial shock.

Martha looks up from her counter, where she had been working with a mortar and pestle, as Mia walks down the steep ladder from the sleeping loft to the shop's.
"Good morning dearie. Don't worry, you're in Kenabres and you're safe here. Let's good fine the guard and see if they can help. Do you remember where you were? Have you been to Kenabres before, do you have friends here?"

Mia came down the loft rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
I've slept better than i expected to under my circumstances.
The city was foreign to her, but something about the shop and Martha made her feel a bit at home.
She waves her hand as a good morning. The little bird following shortly after, landing on the counter, looking at Martha.

Going to assume introductions had been done the previous night.
"Good morning Martha."
Cue short silence at mention of the guard.....
"Mama and i came to the city in to give a present to a friend of hers. But we met a crazy angry man and mama tried to protect me from him. She told me to hide, but i haven't seen her anymore.
But no, i don't know anybody here. Well, i know you, now."

You should have seen what her alternate reality self did in another campaign. :)

The day was like most others for Meria. Up in the morning for prayers to Iomedae, followed by focusing her mind to prepare her arcane energies, and then some light exercise to prepare herself physically for the day.

Coming downstairs she finds her mother Jeselaine outside, practicing her swordplay, the completion of her own morning ritual. Meria can't help but watch her from the doorway. She knew her mother wasn't one of the greatest fighters even in this city, and with her leg she would never be. But Meria always admired her determination when she trained, focusing on trying to keep her balance while practicing forms, a dedication Meria tried to emulate in her own studies.

Jeselaine saw her standing there, and came up to her. The two had been fighting last night about Armasse. Her mother needed her to help with the tavern that week, but her instructor Beegrund Skelt, a former comrade of her mothers, had a chance to have her participate in one of the contests, showing off her magical talents. Jeselaine surprise Meria by telling her she spoke with Beegrund after Meria had went to bed and convinced her to give Meria this opportunity.

Meria had lessons to attend with Beegrund later today, and a few errands to run around the city yet. So she headed out to handle a few chores, and maybe see some of the people entering the city.

Asura wakes up to another busy day in Kenabres. The air in the city has changed for the better in recent days as the festival has approached though her mood was down. With the influx of all the new people in addition to the normal routine business has been booming for Efwin and his potion business. Efwin had been a much better mood than usual, likely because of the influx of business but he never really had a way with people and his better mood didn't improve his ability to deal with the customers. As such, she has been increasingly busy managing new customers and tending to existing customers.

With all the less interesting business work consuming her time she hadn't had any opportunities to head out and try to hunt some lesser demons, thus the source of her frustrations. It didn't make matters any better with all the jovial people chatting about the festival or planning new ventures into the Worldwound. After one particularly lengthy business deal with a new to town paladin of Iomedae, needing a large supply of healing salves in preparation for his expedition, Asura had to step away from things and head to the Defender’s Heart for a drink or three. At least she could attempt to live vicariously through some of the crusaders who frequented the Inn and always boasts about their trials and tribulations.

Such a land the north is. I hope Hana got to take in the beauty of this place. She must have seen much evil in her time here. I pray to Saranrae for your safety my friend.

Kenabras, finally I am here Azim thought to him. Strange I didn’t expect a line. Wonder what’s going on.
You sir. Greetings I am Abdul Azim Usama Samad. You may call me Axim. Why are all the people heading into the city? Was there a demon attack?

Well hello young man that is quite a mouthful of a name you got there. Friends call me Jeb. I am here for the festival. It is Armasse.

A festival, I see, thank you Jeb. Peace be with you my friend.

Azim was staring into the city as he reached the gates. Hoping he may see Hana.

Why you hear?

Wait? What? Oh forgive me sir. I am Abdul-Azim Usama Samad. Please call me Azim. I am hear looking for a friend and to bolster the temple of Sarenrae with another ready to give his life to save the people of Golarian.

Ok buddy you do you. Looks like another zealot. Move along

Zealot, I’m not a zealot. Oh well, first things first. Need to find the temple to secure lodging and hopefully find out where Hana may be. Guess its time to explore the city a bit an meet the locals. Strange a festival here. Wouldn’t think there is much to celebrate with demons at the gate, But it is the simple things that sometimes keep us sane in the face of such horrors. I shall enjoy myself.

Azim continues throughout the city meeting its people and learning his way around.

As you traverse the streets of Kenabres, whether you're just wandering and taking in the sights or purposefully striding to a known destination you see several scenes enacting time and time again, with only the faces changing.

Bands of young children playing at arms with sticks. Most of the time its pairs playing at duelling, normally making a great deal of clatter hitting each other's "blades" but no real swordplay going on. A few appear more skills, as if they've been copying an older sibling. No one plays at Knights & Demons; however. Whether it was the witchhunts of the past, or the ever present demonic threat, no one appears comfortable "playing" one, even in kids games.

Countless scenes of an older individuals, still a child in your eyes, arguing with a parent about joining the crusades, of taking their vows, this year; with the air that this has been a common argument at past Armasse's. Some end with the child stalking off, of being sent to mundane errands, or tearful hugs. There's less shouting than you've seen in similar encounters in other towns and cities.

All of this drives home that Kenabres is a city where growing up means training to protect yourself and others. However, for those newly arrived in Kenabres, there is a strange assuredness or confidence that no matter what's outside, Kenabres is safe. Warded by the wardstones, protected by her many holy orders.

Funny, what drives a man. Is it his desire to protect his family or to get away from it. Why do we spend youth wishing to older, bigger. Was it not that long ago I was his age. I'm pretty much his age now. I had not the pleasure of a family. I have those close to me, but none by blood. I envy these people in a way. I could use a meal and drink.

Azim will approach one of the families.

Greetings kind people. I am Abdul-Azim Usama Samad. Could you please point me to a propper inn. My belly groans and it is tired of these rations. I thank you. May peace be with you and Sarenrae keep you warm

Azim will take the directions and head over to get a good meal and some mead.

Uhuh...holy my little halfling hiney. Those inquisitive types don't seem too safe to Mia at this point. I haven't met Asura yet, so there might be a decent type in this city after all. Oh rp is going to be a fun challenge i'm sure. :)

The visit to the guard captain's office:

As they walked around, Mia's bird fmiliar also seemed in high spirits, constantly singing. The little bird didn't pay much attention and "bumped"..ended up in the hair of a black haired 5ft 3in young woman, wearing on her left a ring etched with the symbol of Iomedae...

Feeling something land in her hair, Meria tries to brush it away at first, then realizing it's become tangled carefully removes it. Seeing it's a small bird, she lets it go, watching as it flies towards a nearby child. Meria steps up towards the child to ask, "I hope I didn't hurt your bird, little girl. My name's Meria. And you are?"

Relieved to see Tjip fine she lets it land on her hand, before putting it back onto her shoulder.

"No, he'll be fine, thank you. I'm Mia. I'm here with miss Martha."

After seeing, then pointing at the symbol, "are you with the inquisition?"

Seeing the Mia point at her ring, she brings it up so she can get a better look. "Me? No, I'm not. But I am training to join the crusades. I hope to one day join the men and women who help keep us safe. Is Miss Martha your mother?"

Mia shakes her head.
"If she were i'd call her so. No, she....took me in."
"But are you talking about fighting devils, or witches and evil mages?"

It was enlightening to see the city so close to the festival. Baradesh wandered and watched. Occasionally he'd stop by a group of older children, and call out tips, showing the proper way to handle a sword, the correct position of the hands and the length of the strike while warning, "And such knowledge is to be used on the demons, ya ken? Dinna fight with brothers and sisters. The Inheritor frowns on such, laddies and lasses."

Well, it was close to Armasse, when people were trained. And a little training would make even a stick a lot less dangerous in the hands of a child. Baradesh smiled at the memory of more than one stick shattering on the helmet he tended to wear. Dwarf work needed more than wood to rattle it, as a rule.

The Paladin less liked seeing the arguments of children wishing to fight. They had no understanding of the realities. The misery and bloodshed. The weeks of training it would take to turn even the best of them into something resembling a soldier able to fight a demon.

No...that's not true. How many of them will have seen demons? How many have lost loved ones, even living here, protected by the wards? How many will have watched them train, waiting for the day to join? Too many. Too many would be like him. That was the reality of life near the Worldwound - people died, and there children followed them. Just as he had for his parents. But at least he had the training that would see him live. Hopefully.

"Ach, I need a drink." Just the one, obviously. Iomadae didn't approve of throwing up all over yourself, after all.

Mia shakes her head.

"If she were i'd call her so. No, she....took me in."
"But are you talking about fighting devils, or witches and evil mages?"

"If that's what I would be called on to do battle with, then yes. But primarily it would be demons from the Worldwound. Look around and see the many brave people standing ready."

A trio of dwarves, clad in shining mail, hail Baradesh. "Hail brother! New in town? I am Dolgrin Narringun; this is Torra and Rogar."
Exquisitely crafted warhammers hang from their belts, and large shields are slung on their backs. "Iomadae? There must be a story there? You're strong in the stone of our ancestors, how did Torag, Angradd, or Trudd lose one such as you to the noble, yet human, Iomadae?"

Azim bows to the man. He gives his gratitude and blessing yet again and walks off.

Defenders Heart sounds like it will do nicely. It should be a good place to start to stir up some information to find Hana. Oh I do hope they have a beef stew today. Hot bread and butter would be a nice addition as well. Why am I thinking of food so much? Has it been that long without a proper meal. I guess it has. I have earned it I think. Let’s go see this Defenders Heart.

Asura fought her way through the crowded streets on the way to the Defenders Heart. Still in somewhat of a foul mood she doesn’t even bother being polite, simply bumping into those she passes that aren’t paying attention to move out of the way. The Inn itself was swarming with people it seemed. As she entered one of the staff near the door yelled out ”We have no rooms miss” not even really paying attention who they were talking to Asura promptly replied ”I’m in no need of a room, simply a table and a drink.” The staff member said nothing more, engrossed in the work they were already doing.

Asura found a table near a group of crusaders and ordered herself a gallon of mead. Sitting down at the table she lets out a deep breath as she kicks her feet up on an opposing chair and waits for the mead. She closes her eyes a moment trying to focus in on a single conversation and drown out the background noise. Luckily for her the crusaders near by were going on about a recent patrol on the border of the Worldwound near one of the Wardstones. She let her imagination take flight as she listened to their discussion. Envisioning the valiant battle against hordes of demons, being cut down as they unsuccessfully try and overwhelm the crusaders. Moments later one of the staff brings her the mead and she happily pours a glass tossing it back before pouring another and drinking it a bit slower this time.

Fort: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

Defenders Heart

A tall man dressed in a blue linen coat over his chain adorned with silken sash for a belt, and wearing a mailed drape over his face that attaches to his helmet walks in. Not unusual to see someone so armed. He looks around until spoting a lady sitting by herself. He stares for a moment and then walks over before being caught and coming off rude.

Hello miss. I am Abdul-Azim Usama Samad. I have traveled many of weeks to get here. I came looking for a friend and to join the crusade. I am a battle dancer of Sarenrae. I noticed your celestial heritage. I too have that blood in mm. May I join you? I have money and just seek a proper meal and perhaps some friendly conversation.

He removes the drape from his face before removing the helmet. He sits both upon the table. He then take the shield off his back and leans it against the wall before sitting.

So what do you recomend. My belly and mind seem to be leaning toward a beef stew, but we can be persuaded.

As Meria and Mia are talking, there's a sudden gust of wind and across the street you see a hood blow back, exposing a mans? head. You see a person made of rock, glittering in the sun.

The local children pull back into a clump.
What is that? ... Is that a golem, where his master? ... He's made of gems! ... I think he's beautiful ... Why was he hiding? .... Is he dangerous?

Mia, contrary to the children, isn't taking steps back.
"If he'd been dangerous, he'd have had the chance to do so already."

It suddenly occurred Mia that action was a bit....unusual for an appearant 10 year old.

Azim bows..

Thank you for your kindness. Chicken and pork hmmm....Barmaid I will have a roasted chicken then thank you. Ah my story. Well as I stated I'm searching for a friend. Her name is Hana. We trained together for many years. She was a bit older and finished training before me. She came to join the crusade. I have finished training and will be joining the crusade as well. I only wish to know if she is well. Now please, I have said enough of myself. I have not great tales. Tell me of this place and of yourself.

Azim drinks from his mug.

”Hm, me? Well I’ve been in town a few years. I work for an alchemist who sells potions and the like to all the crusaders. Business is good that is for sure, this close to the Worldwound lots of people like to have their backup potions when they ride out to meet the demons. I’d love to join a crusade myself and really stick it to the demons, but I’m not affiliated with Sarenrae or Iomedae so many will not have me, especially with me not being a big burly paladin.” She puffs up her chest and flexes her arms mockingly and then laughs and gives Azim a wink, obviously getting a bit inebriated.

Curious about this visitor, Meria looks down to Mia and quietly tells her, "You're right. Try to stay back." She then comes up to the stoneman. "Excuse me, sir. Are you new to town? My name is Meria."

For Asura and Abdul-Azim:
An older, elegant lady one sitting with her back to Asura, turns around:"I've never heard of one, that none of the crusading orders would take. Normally the criticism is that the orders are a little too accepting.... All theses opportunistic low templars running around, causing problems and distracting from more honorable pursuits..." she looks about to launch into a longer tirade, but then gives you a piercing glance you can't discern. "Hmmmm.... there's something more to you. Yes. I think you will have a role to play and sooner than you think. Tell me, alchemist's assistant, what are your dreams? And you, warrior from the desert, what is your wish for the future?"

And I'm off for the weekend. I should be back online sometime on Sunday. Play nice :)

Baradesh nodded to the other dwarfs. "Tis a long-ish story, but the gist is I was saved by Iomadean Paladins when demons slipped past the Wardstone. They looked to my care, and offered me a chance to strike back too." The Paladin grinned. "Wehn given mah life, it seemed a small price to pay to listen to there sermons, and I found I had a liking for Iomadae. She knows the need for strength or law better than most I've met, and it seemed worthy to serve her. A life for a life, as it twere. Even if it is the same life!"

Baradesh nodded. "But, aye, I am new here. Recently completed the training required of me, and now I wait to see where I shall be sent. You have the look of veterans to you - have you any idea what things are like beyond the walls?"

As Meria and Mia are talking, there's a sudden gust of wind and across the street you see a hood blow back, exposing a mans? head. You see a person made of rock, glittering in the sun.

The local children pull back into a clump.
What is that? ... Is that a golem, where his master? ... He's made of gems! ... I think he's beautiful ... Why was he hiding? .... Is he dangerous?

The golem-like form's stony face morphed itself into a grimace as the hood blew back and he looked around him, anxious that people might have seen his face. Seeing that only the children and perhaps a woman had reacted to the brief slip in vigilance, Andanan's grimace calmed as he approached the group. His footfalls were far heavier than a normal mans as he walked up to the woman, who addressed him on his approach. One of his robed hands seemed to be resting on a pouch upon his belt as he spoke. His voice was every bit as deep and gravelly as one would expect from his form.

I have just entered Kenabres, good lady. I am called Andanan. Forgive me for... frightening your charges. I am a pilgrim; from a far away land. Yet the tendrils of demonkind and the spawn of their evil make themselves known even in the distant Impossible Kingdoms. I seek to join the heroes of this fine nation in holding back the Worldwound. I had heard that from the farms that a holy day is fast approaching; a day that potential Crusaders often swear their oaths. Do you happen to know how soon that day is?

Noticing the children still watching him, Andanan smiled apologetically at Meria and broke off a tiny piece of gemstone from his arm, which shone a glistening green colour. From experience, Andanan knew that the sliver of rock would lose all colour and shape within a few hours; but the bauble was pretty enough to draw a gasp from the children as Andanan offered it to them, gently dropping to one knee with hand outstretched so as not to intimidate.

More crusaders....at least not inquisistors.
Seeing as the rocky man (shall i call him rocky? He uses his fists for mean punches after all...) didn't attack Meria, Mia walks up to the two of them. Looking up she takes in the closer sight.

The man didn't look made from a single material like normal golems.
Something was about to jolt in her memory...

"Mister, you're no golem. But you're touched by elemental influence, either by lineage or planar magics. The plane of earth i would guess?"

The golem-like man looked confused; and was in fact a little bit astounded that a child would have such knowledge. He gave this braver girl a closer look with eyes that resembled gemstones...

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Curious if Andanan sees through Mia's ruse, would you care to make an opposed disguise check. Doesn't look like you'll need to roll high :P.

Hrmm? I never claimed to... Oh... forgive me child. My circumstances are a little complex and frankly; quite private and personal. I... am an Oread, yes.

Scrutinising the child as he rose again to his impressive full height of well over 6 feet, Andanan asked-

And how does a young girl like yourself know of such things? Are the learned ones of this place truly so used to diversity that you are taught of the rare plane-touched like myself? Are you perhaps a wizard's apprentice, young lady?

"He is correct, Mia. It is impolite to pry too far. Though I can't fault her concern, being as close as we are to such danger. A little caution can save many lives. A pleasure to meet you Andanan, and a noble goal you seek. I too hope to prove myself in Armasse this year, just a week away to answer your question."

Meria looks down to Mia when Andanan questions her, curious herself. "A good question. Is this Martha instructing you in such ways?"

Knowledge (Planes): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

Ow...curiosity got the better of me.
Andanan

Switching looks between Andanan and Meria she thinks about what she's going to say....
"Sorry, it wasn't meant rude.
I'd have to say no to both. Martha took me in yesterday. Where i'm from we have an extensive library, ranging from common knowledge to the more academy type tomes. I've read a tome on planar lore."
What great city doesn't have a library? :) But if you're mistrusting still...

Bluff: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18

A fortune teller? It would be improper to share such personal things good lady. I am an ambitious man and seek many things. Thank you for your words. Peace be with you.

With that Azim takes another drink and begins to eat his meal.

Asura huffs as the older woman interrupts her joking and shrugs "Well perhaps I haven't looked hard enough then. As for my dreams, I'd like to stick it to those forsaken demons where the sun don't shine." She slams her mug down on the table, quite a bit harder than she had intended. "And really, if I had my way I'd close up the damnable Worldwound and send them all back to where they belong so they can't destroy anymore families!"

She sniffs, her eyes a bit puffy and her cheeks flush. What's wrong with you? she thinks to herself Get a little drink and you go off the rails, reminiscing about your father...

She brushes her nose, promptly, with a knuckle before looking at the woman in more detail "What's it to you anyway? You say I will have a role to play, what does that mean? Are you some kind of fortune teller or something?"

The dwarves listen politely to Baradesh's tale, their stern faces accepting it at face value. "Well said; good luck in your journey and duties, mayhaps we be stationed together sometime and we can hear the entire story. As for the current state of the crusades... The fourth crusade has been slowing and sputtering out, some say its already ended. I think we'll hear more at Armasse. The demon sightings have been less frequent, but I think they are just readying for another onslaught."
"You look like you have places to be, we will not detain you longer, but if you want to share a barrel of ale sometime, you can find us at Torag's main temple."

The lady in Defender's Heart looks a little taken aback by both your reactions:"Your pardon, I had no mean to pry or offend. Sometimes I see thing about people that suggest a certain nobility of purpose. An indication that they will accomplish great things. What those things are, or when they may be I have no special insight. Only that you will do great things." She walks away, leaving you both feeling slightly saddened by her departure.

The children are greatly impressed by Andanan's gift and run off to show others."Look it glitters, just like him... He's not scary ... See he's not a demon like you said..."

You notice a sudden resumption of normal business in the street, as if others had been waiting to step in if needed, but waiting to see how the strange man would handle things.

Baradesh nodded his thanks for both the new and the invitation for ale. [b]"Thank ye all. I shall take you up on your offer when I have a bottle to share - 'tis an unworthy guest who drinks his hosts finest without anything in return. I shall leave ye to your business, and look forward to future meetings. May Iomadae's and Torag's blessing both go with ye all."

Bowing sightly, Baradesh turned and continued his walk. But the talk of ale had given him a thirst, it had to be said, and his stomach rumbled to remind him of how how long it has been since breakfast. And how poor an idea it was to drink on an empty stomach. His funds weren't great - the money he had been given had gone on his equipment, the finest he could find - but he had enough to enjoy a small respite.

Glancing around, the Paladin spotted a likely looking bar. The Defender's Heart, eh? Sounds like a promising place. He was sure that even in a city like this there would be places where crusaders, and other reminders of the lost, would not be as welcome and he preferred not to sit somewhere he'd be given the cold shoulder for reminding people of there loss.

The Dwarf walked into the bar, hung his cloak on a spare peg and carefully wiped his boots to avoid bringing any filth from the street in. Only then did he walk to the bar, glancing around as he did so.

Any good 'Dwarf walks into a bar jokes, folks?

No offense was taken. Such matters are just of a personal sort. If your visiosn see greatness then I am honored. Thank your for your kind words.

Azim stands as she does to show respect and bow as she leaves.

Seemingly satisfied with Mia's answer, she smiles at her. "You should continue your studies. You have a good memory and could do well." She then turns to Andanan. "Have you found a place to stay yet? I could show you to some of the local inns if you like."

Sense Motive: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (15) - 1 = 14

Mia tells Martha she'd like to go for a walk through the city, as Meria is suggesting to Andanan.
<"Well, a little walk could clear your mind i suppose. Any special area?">

"How about we walk together with Meria and Andanan?"
As she finishes her sentence she looks at Meria with a questioning look.