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I would like to wish our Honorable Laithoron a most
TOP SECRET: A certain Elven Intelligence Agent has reported that one male Sky Elven Game Master, in his earthly disguise as mild mannered Michael Darnell, Esq., even now is in the company of a lovely Lady.
Ooo LA LA !
Memories of that mythic day, when Wingilmë ascended, returned. Arion's eyes looked far away and he mused upon her prophecy. In a low voice he uttered the words, "Be not afraid, Lureene...because it is by love that you will save others." Almost to himself he said, "If it is true, that demon kind never feel true joy, while angels seek love, beauty and to oppose evil, I wonder how the prophetic assurances will play out within this equatorial arena." Returning to duty, he asked, "What shall be the next order of business? Because I could really enjoy a glass of wine about now."
The Sky Elf had never enjoyed exploring lore of the evil and chaotic layers, spread through planes bordering upon his own material world. His thoughts drifted to tales of the ancient Elven Capital that fell and became the Daemonshade. Always lurks the peril of study leading to lusts for the dark arts of the enemies. "Magical containers such as that one are used to contest the willpower of outsiders. Should the extra-planar being fail to resist, they are compelled into the vessel. Glyphs utilizing the True Name of an outsider serve to WEAKEN their volition and overpower their self-control." Looking deeply into the eyes of Grak as he spoke, Arion made clear to the consciousness of his lover that the meaning of his words hinted a warning to Lureene about what had been applied to the Iron Flask; the Abyssal symbols involving her Name and bloodline.
Without his books nearby, Arion had to pause and delve through the storehouse of his knowledge, trying to remember where he had read the name of Yarzoth. Had it been within the intelligence report investigating the findings of that Professor of Archaeology? "Dear Lureene, I think the being to whom You refer had a much higher intelligence than the monstrosity trapped inside the flask. The mind I encountered within the flask was much more like that of Grak." Arion reached up and patted Lureene's linked Eidolon as a friend. "How many others from The Abyss choose to summon and link to such a similar Eidolon, I wonder?" Rolls: Knowledge: Local
With a cautious hand Arion returned the threatening device back within the cube of force. Once outside of the vault, the report was delivered in common, to allow Lureene to share her input. "There is indeed some sinister spirit inside. I seemed to have been able to sense a rather simple mind; simple yet direct in its hostile nature. That nature reminded me of those few demons whose wills failed to keep out my mind probes. I believe this monster is bound in service to some horrible will." Arion nodded grimly toward Grak while adding, "There but for the grace of our Angel, I suspect this Eidolon would have shared the bloodthirsty and chaotic lusts that permeate the outsider trapped in that Iron Flask. For, the mind within that container is structured in similar sentience to Grak."
Arion held the flask at arm's distance, exclaiming, "We should treat this as a trap!" One hand securing the flask, with the other he began his Transmutation to augment his intelligence. "See if you can discern whether anything lies within. Enlist aid if you must!" Bowing his head instinctively, the Agent turned his attention back into the chamber and replied, "At once, Your Highness!" His draconic chant echoed off the thick stone walls as the Elven Wizard's spell began to form; a divination aimed at the flask.
Arion stood fully upright and placed himself between the vile container and Alis. Scowling at the item, he spoke to The Princess in the Celestial language. "Your Highness, there is much danger here!"
So, did Ugorji lie to us when he declared that his original intention was not to capture Lureene, but her mother? Or did he have time, on the Sprite, to add this sigil, hoping to enthrall the daughter of Avoreen?
Arion took a deep breath and stepped back. "Thank you for your prayers. They helped free me of distracting thoughts." As he caught his breath the irony provoked a bitter laugh. "That is what I get for specializing." His mood became more serious as he explained, "Whoever crafted this prison for extra-planar beings must have been a master of conjuration. This powerful device had been disguised. Where this Ugorji came by it, I would be interested to discover, since I doubt that holding cells for Outsiders are to be found scattered across these jungle lands." The Elf was almost reluctant to be so near to what might even now contain some hideous arch-fiend. Yet he and his allies should know all they could. His eyes narrowed as he worked out the meaning of the characters added upon the flask. "There are evil things written upon it, in addition to the runes inscribed during its formation." Rolls:
The threats of Ugorji — to the people and region that Arion had begun to care more for daily and to his Kingdom, the honour of his King and appointed Vicereine — the memories flooded back. Soon the flask and encasing cube filled all of Arion's point of view. Do not allow the enemy to poison and cloud your mind. Master the fire of wrath, redirect; use the passion to fuel your resolve; be the superior intellect. Arion closed his eyes. In his mind the stars began to streak across the Heavens until they rearranged into the transliteration that unlocked the codified messages placed there ages ago by their Queen. His hands and arms crossed before his body, gesturing; from his lips floated the incantation, evoking a cone of energy; the divination aimed at the metal flask. Elven eyes opened upon the flask as long fingers moved the object. Arion combined his deep knowledge of magical items with his arcane divination as he examined the container which Ugorji had so strongly treasured. Rolls:
Watching the fascinating creation at work made Arion's job all the more pleasant this day. He also paid a bit of attention to the hidden control mechanism in the dungeon. "So good of the other brilliant Kirmoon Twin to find time to combine intellects and wisdom. Uniting our strengths here, not allowing enemies to fragment us...I will keep these as priorities." Looking down the subterranean passage, Arion reminded himself that he was not limited to being alone in his assignment in that region. "How can I be of assistance here? Curiosity regarding a prisoner's belongings was mentioned."
From behind Alis, Grak poked out his head and bobbed it in Arion's direction as he spoke, "Missstressss thinksss the placcce she ssseesss will sssuit thisss one. Sssasha sssaysss the bathsss are niccce, but Missstressss sssaysss that mussst wait..." Oh, my Ladies, how adorable you are. Arion walked up to Grak and scratched and groomed between scales while saying, "Thank you, Grak. Let your Mistress know that I trust her tastes. I look forward to exploring the place. Yet I will be more pleased to see her soon, here at the Palace."
Arion stood up fully and stretched and tried to hide a deep yawn but, upon further reflection... Considering in whose presence is an attempt to conceal something... He bowed slightly and smiled while saying, "Excuse me, your visit is a pleasant surprise." Accepting the courier reply, which confirmed what The Princess had hinted, a laugh escaped from Arion. "Ha! Well, if our friend Gaeros volunteers the Treasurer's yacht, I would joyfully accept." He was happy that The Vicereine found amusement in the situation as well. "If it involves our prisoner Ugorji, I would also joyfully tag along, if only to study him more. It might prove useful to be able to assume his identity in Freetown." As Arion accompanied The Princess he added, "Speaking of Freetown, the Lieutenant-Governor Alain seems to be a potentially powerful ally, with his own army of faithful natives. I am not fully informed as to King Aramandil's policies concerning the future of Dafar; yet, assuring the Lieutenant-Governor that we value the freedoms of that Province...it seems that might be a strong bargaining chip for us."
After he had left the note upon Lureene's pillow, Arion had searched through the items they had confiscated from Ugorji. Brushing out one item in particular, picking debris from its interior, Arion took the Hat of Disguise that had been carried by Ugorji. Addendum: Combined with the clothing of a sea-faring Malatestan tradesman, Arion had used the Disguise Skill to alter his racial appearance to that of a Half-Malatestan with darker skin (-2).
With the help of his Disguise Kit (+2), Master Spy abilities of Art of Deception (+1) and Master of Disguise (create Disguise in 1/2 normal time; reduce racial disguise penalty by 1), in addition to his bonus to Disguise (+17), Arion hoped his assumed identity would suffice to pass as a newly arrived sea-borne merchant from lands to the North.
Arion paused and stretched after a long session among the archives. Leaning back, hands laced and supporting his head from behind, he digested the information. Among all his copying and notes and scrutiny it occurred to him, There are several topics that are conspicuously missing from any extant records here. What was that old saying? 'The yearling birds might lack in lore, seek ancient trees for so much more.' Perhaps it is time I sampled the local fare. I seem to recall there was an establishment which has been in Port Eldarion continuously for four generations. Gathering some copied maps and notes along with his gear, Arion went to wash up and change into garb that more resembled a Malatestan tradesman. He left a note for Lureene upon her pillow, indicating his plans. He made certain that his Quill and a large purse of coins were hidden within his clothing. Taking a deep breath and looking around, the Elven Agent passed through the Palace gates. With a turn to the North, he was off on a stroll towards
Rolls:
Once Arion had discovered that the Commodore had returned to Arrowhead Island, Arion's first order of business was to pen a message. As he strode to the aviary lofts the thoughts went through his mind, Ahhhh....I do hope that Lureene realises how much I care for her. As deeply are my feelings for our noble race, and whatever lingering attractions or ideals from my youth, now that I consider it more and more, I would not trade her wings or otherworldly features for anything. Some day I might have time to meditate upon the reasons behind my feelings for her. Mother used to try to tell us that love is not logical. Reaching his destination, the Elven Agent brought his attention back to duty. Arion inserted the miniature, sealed scroll into a tiny case and made certain the details were properly enscribed upon the area of address: On Service of Her Royal Highness Princess Alissariel Kirmoon, acting Vicereine of Dafar
Within the body of the communiqué, Arion noted the Princess' commission of official requests made to the Governor of Freetown. A vessel worthy of such embassy was required, possibly one that could traverse as far upstream as Freetown, or as close to the shallow waters as possible. In hopes that Commodore Gaeros would have the best perspective on such a ship available by the next day or nearly as soon, a formal request was issued, asking that the Commodore send word to the Palace as soon as he could. Paying a royal dispatcher, Arion gave instructions that a messenger pigeon was to convey it directly. That completed, it was straight to the repositories of historical documents, where Arion spent some time making certain he knew the particulars of what had been recorded concerning Freetown, its historical Governors, the layout of the area, the tribal concerns and other particulars. The more he studied, the more he was glad that Amhranai would be joining them on this mission.
Arion thought back to earlier weeks, during their last days at the embassy. Remembering Lureene's disguise, he tried to picture her as an elf. The thoughts combined with his adoration for Lureene and his arousal was quite evident. Arion caressed Sasha's neck as he flipped her braid over her shoulder, admiring how it adorned her. "With great effort I shall attempt to pace myself around you two temptating delicacies." He slung the strap of his satchel over his shoulder and began to make an exit. "I have business with the Commodore before today's end. Also, research and other preparations are needed. Bless both of you for helping me today. I leave the particulars up to you both, in keeping with whatever schedule Alissariel had in mind for you. I hope to meet up again, possibly here, at least before we retire to sleep. I shall send messages if plans are changed. I do wish much enjoyment for the remains of your day." With a kiss for each, Arion was off to locate the Commodore.
One arm around Lureene, Arion hugged her and kissed her head and replied, "Well, in the Empyrean Arcade, the third story features penthouses. It would serve our purposes best to have one closest to the West, as near to Central Avenue as possible. A place where I might easily sneak onto the roof; somewhere overlooking both Victor's and the plazas below; that would be ideal. Each penthouse is luxuriously appointed. I need to both draw attention to my opulent connections and be able to watch the street life below." Arion winked at Sasha and added, "A place where you and a beautiful, dexterous red-head can lounge in comfort when you visit." They neared Lureene's chambers and Arion said,
He opened a door for them and said to Lureene, "...for I was hoping that you might join me on this excursion, my lovely Angel. Also, perhaps the Scarlet Corsair might sail again!" The door closed behind them. It was with pleasure that Arion made the best of what little time was permitted them, together again.
Arion greeted them with open arms and answered, "Hmmm, perhaps our good Major Domo here might arrange notifications for you, inquiring as to her wishes. At the least, I would think she approves of time to clean up after a mission, and your quarters are so close to her own." Turning around, looking for the source of unique scents, his eyes alighted upon Sasha and he asked with a grin, "Is that champagne and hors d'oeuvres I sense?" As they walked towards the residential wing of the Palace, Arion informed them of some of the resolutions reached while they were away. He continued, "...and since I need to prepare for my mission, upon which I will likely embark early tomorrow, it would be most helpful if you could find the time to select new apartments for me. I trust your tastes and sense of style. It might be a fun shopping venture, relaxing compared to the past few days."
After taking leave of the noble Half-Elven Bard he had begun to admire, Arion quickly made his way through the Palace grounds. Overhearing the servants making haste to meet an arriving carriage, Arion moved into the shadows and watched to see the passengers. From the shadows Arion spoke up, his melodious voice echoing off the monumental arches and paved courtyard, "Very pleased that you are interested in my new quarters and sightseeing through the city. I had wished to ask whether you could be of assistance in helping me pick out a new abode. I would enjoy assisting YOU in 'getting cleaned up.'" Rolls:
Arion bowed and replied to Alissariel, "The mission parameters are very clear. Unless a particular vessel would be preferred, I shall search for the next available voyage, or have one scheduled, to represent the royal embassy. What shall be the composition of my company? Or should I travel alone? I wonder." He nodded to each of the heroes nearby and said, "If you will excuse me, I have to prepare for this mission. I think I shall begin by studying more of the region's history and then continue putting clues together to see what the pieces of the puzzle might reveal. Darvesch, before I depart for Freetown, perhaps there will be time to share more of our findings, after your explorations in Port Eldarion. In any case, I wish you good fortune." Excited about the assignment, Arion paused, awaiting his leave at the pleasure of the Princess.
Arion nodded. "The Princess and The Lightbringer together; one could hardly ask for more reassuring defenses. Freetown is my destination then." The Sky Elf glanced at the Moon Elf and said, "This mission would be greatly aided by a most clever Rogue, if that is in line with the Princess' plans." To the Vicereine, her Agent said, "Shall my cover then be that of Court Scribe presenting the formal summons to the Royal Investment Ceremony? I stand ready for instructions as to our official objectives in Freetown."
Having begun to bury his nose into his journal, Arion heard a scream the likes of which he had not experienced upon his native plane. The Scribe looked up in time to see Grak spinning out of control and apparently exploding. Powerful Pipes of Passion's Queen! The eidolon is NO MORE! "Which of you are volunteering to head to Freetown with Arion, and which of you are volunteering to stay here... with me?" Those nearby shared a moment of wide eyed stares at each other, like so many deer suddenly surprised by the lights of a racing carriage. Arion swallowed the lump in his throat and quickly buried his nose in a new study; a collection of maps labeled
Too distant to overhear the exact words, Arion read what he could of the body language of Alissariel Kirmoon. Usually so well composed, there was little subtlety masking her reactions as it seemed she might grasp Grak by both wings and use his face to transmit vocal messages. My dear Lureene might have to rebuild Grak from scratch after the shouting maketh him go -poof!- The Princess DOES have quite a set of lungs. Yet, Arion did not at first see how me might be of assistance. He hoped that the almost godlike charms of the Enchantress would hold Gallo in her sway long enough for lovely Lureene to transmit her message and withdraw. Rolls:
During the discussion, the Scribe had been thumbing through his notes, reviewing topics recently researched. As Lureene's eidolon relayed updates of the lunch with Guildmaster Gallo, Arion shuddered at the thought of the portly sausage fingers fondling Lureene's hand. He attempted to keep the contents of his stomach from interrupting the council. Listening to those nearby, Arion replied with a bow, "Sagacious analyses. I have great confidence in the Princess' awareness and abilities to lead her personal defenses. From the basics I have gathered, those who train with Súmalya's clergy excel in a unique style of self-defense." Arion looked at Amhranai and noted, "There are, of course, others here whose connections and familiarity with both local customs and jungle environments are far superior to my own. Perhaps they would prefer to lead the mission involving Freetown?" He said to the Princess, respectfully, "Yours is the decision, where you need me, I will willingly serve. You must know by now my skills at disguise and other assets I have to offer. I would think my gifts would be of more use in this urban setting. Lady Lammontari's and your own suggestions, concerning plying the city, to see what might be uncovered, seems a worthy pursuit. The Master Dwarf, I consider well experienced enough that he needs none of my counsel as to his course." Rolls:
Arion petted Grak's scaly head, saying, "Thank you, Grak." Pacing away from the tables, Arion said, "So, Lucretia implicated Avoreen, supporting our information about THAT demonic stalker, lying in wait for whatever opening is presented to her." He turned and looked at Tiniel. "Agent Lómelindë's description, of the Princess' card divinations, describes even more evidence that there are at least three distinct factions proactively preparing their own poisonous brews in Dafar. This is not to mention those parties who had already been power players in the region before the newest troubles began, although those players seem to not be as active in promoting their own agendas." Arion looked from face to face, asking, "Shall we divide our forces and take actions against each faction? Shall we make a unified move against one specific group? Shall we lay one or more traps and let them come to us? Shall we bide our time, strengthening our defenses, while we gather more information? In my opinion, I would say 'YES,' to each strategy. We have the resources and numbers to attempt each. The only area in which we do not hold a distinct advantage involves information. Each enemy group - the natives tied to the assassination, with possible headquarters in Freetown, Chivane's forces and Avoreene - seem to have been steps ahead, due to their available knowledge and perspectives. To the extent that we can disrupt their information and gain superior perspective ourselves, I reason we can make our tactical advantages complete."
All the far-reaching manipulations, how easily the destinies of so many had been redirected, it is alarming to say the least. It is encouraging to know that the Princess and those close to her have, time and again, frustrated the plans of the enemies. Arion had been listening to recollections of past events, trying to recall what he could, of what he had researched thus far, about Dafar. Mention of the recent battle caused him to say to Grak, "Angel of Death huh? At the demise of an outsider, I would expect their final words to be in the tongue of an outsider. Grak, do you remember exactly what was spoken by Lucretia? It could be of importance to us." Rolls:
Arion spoke up. "Opposing goals eh? Perhaps we can use that to our advantage. Always better to prevent enemies from combining their strengths." A thought caused Arion to pivot and face the Dwarf. "That reminds me; Darvesch was sequestered earlier with the would-be martyr. I wonder what matters of consequence were discovered while interrogating Ugorji."
Arion's eyes went wide at the revelation, he exclaimed, "Fifty years without decent dreaming! I think I should have slain someone before that long! Sharing your information not only helps us consider our course, but I now begin to understand your complexities." Pacing slowly, Arion considered the implications of their visions, thinking of what plans should be developed.
While accounts of the dream visions were being shared, and lunch enjoyed, Arion noticed that Lureene's Eidolon had flown into the area of their company. Grak hissed a message to the Scribe. Nodding in understanding, Arion moved closer to the Princess. During the pause, as Amhranai contemplated, Arion bowed and noted, "Princess Alissariel, Sasha and Lureene have been treated to a bounteous feast, at the Villa of Lord Gallo. I think you would be proud of our winged friend. Her diplomacy so far promises to be effectual. I also am eager to continue operations afield. After Amhranai's report, I wonder if I might have your leave to begin operations at the Empyrean Arcade?"
Arion finished a bite of food, listening. Then he replied, "Introspection...yes, now that you mention it. In my visions, Princess Larathiel's interests in events here strengthened my heart. Even more so now, I feel our lives here serve the greater good for Ilmarond." He began, as if to elaborate and then stopped and shook his head, saying instead, "Well, you are experienced enough to know what information might be useful for us. No wish for your dishonor. I respect your privacy. Of the vision granted to me, I described the major points in a document you all are invited to read as you like. My interests are what aspects would inform our plans here...beneficial facts..." Arion looked at Amhranai and added, "...and my hopes are that Amhranai finally slept well enough to enjoy a dream. It seems that both rest and the pleasure of a good vision have eluded her for some time."
While their lunch was arranged, Arion found a sunny ledge upon which to record the directive to the Bonati estate. The traditional rest day was no allure for the Agent to pass the time idly. After ensuring the new decree would be proclaimed in due order, Arion was eager to explore the areas of his new apartments and be about other investigations. Searching the maps of that area, he considered several strategies as he made his way to where lunch was ready upon the tables. He sampled some food; enough, he deemed to fortify himself for the afternoon; awaiting a moment when it seemed there was a pause in conversation and the pleasures of the table. Approaching when Alis, Darvesch and Amhranai were near to one another, Arion said, "The preliminaries of the royal edict, regarding the new Lightbringers' initiative, have been commissioned and shall be announced publicly. I do look forward to your warriors being part of the destiny of Dafar, Darvesch. I am also very interested in the visions granted to the Ladies, to Darvesch and to Amhranai, whenever you would care to share them with us."
"Who gets the dubious honor of breaking the news to Bonati?" Arion smiled and almost laughed, but stepped forward and said, "A good point. Your Royal Highness, if I may; I volunteer to pen the decrees and dispatch them to the estate of Baron Bonati."
Arion stood beside Darvesch. "I must follow the terse example of our friend the noble Lightbringer, as he speaks for me also." After a bow to the Princess, he nodded to the other guests, saying, "Blessings upon your assignments gentlemen." Her Agent awaited her officiation, well pleased with the plans. I wonder how our dear Lureene and Sasha fare on their mission, particularly now that the Scarlet Corsair is free of the shackles of courtly requirements. Perhaps she shall find a fair pirate outfit for our winged beauty.
Arion turned his back to the Treasurer and faced the Princess, slightly shaking his head and smiling. No need to waste words on economic debate. Arion said to Hior, "Pleased that you enjoyed my proverb. Here is another: 'Lay most economists across the world end to end and still they would not reach a conclusion and would point in all directions.' We all are well aware there are problems with the supply chain of lumber, though not of raw materials. The Vicereine amply supplies more than enough for her staff here. No need for greed among us. I am more than supplied to do my job here, which includes examination of affairs of Protectorate. However, executive decisions are the privilage of Her Royal Highness. Let us leave the direction of this meeting to her."
Arms crossed, nodding, looking far away, Arion stroked his chin with one hand and said, "In my past life, involved daily with accounting and economics, I learned this:
Beginning to pace somewhat, Arion explained, "Meaning, without reinforcements, the fortress during a siege does better to utilize its strengths earlier, harrying foes by sallying forth and breaking formations, well before being forced into a purely defensive stance. In economics, clever investments yield far more than hoarded sums...." Stopping to look at Amhranai, as if she were involved in a predesignated plan with him, Arion continued, "...and when corruption is suspected among the ranks, it must be rooted out, lest it weaken or threaten any attempts at a sortie." He turned and watched the Treasurer and his attendants, resolving, "When resources are lower, faithful accountants must more closely scrutinize the trail of funds, to see whether waste or bandits intercept funds along their route." Rolls:
The Scribe looked at the Commodore and asked, "Was there truly a scarcity of new ships needed?" Rolls:
Still looking at the guests, Arion replied, "The wish of the divine Kirmoon family is, to me, a command." He pivoted and bowed to Alis, saying with respect, "May their reign and prosperity be as great as is their justice." Moving to the opposite side of the room, far from all guests, Arion held his Quill and book ready should there be additional noteworthy topics. "Welcome, Commodore, Harbormaster, to the business at hand..." Arion then quickly described the main points of Sir Hellhammer's well formulated plans, the Master Builder's expert advice and their Vicereine's insightful remarks.
A voice rose up from behind the Treasurer, flanking his followers, "Lady Ourson is of the highest order, in the domain of stimulation, whatever the worthy cause. The wise cultivate her favor, for, whether pleasing or sweet torment, as surely as the dawn draws avian song, she is irresistible." Arion stared down one of the lackies who dared to remain within striking distance, while asking Lureene, "O Blessed of Wingilmë, may we know more about what Lady Ourson meant, about persuading Lord Gallo?"
Beyond the grand hallways, Arion had stopped at the door to the map room, allowing each member of the group to pass nearby, before following them into the chamber. Once inside, he slowly paced until he stood directly behind the Treasurer. From his position he could look over the shoulder of Petronius, examining what he might of the plans submitted by Darvesch. As discussions were continuing, concerning the location of the new establishment, Arion moved beside Darvesch and leaned over to whisper to him. Dwarven (Darvesch):
"I do believe the master builder was as impressed with Your plans as I. I see no flaw in any of it. Rather exciting actually. Although, personally, I would have chosen the site of River Watch Keep." Upon the entrance of Amhranai, Arion welcomed her, saying, "A wise voice for the people and our valiant companion in battle. Welcome, Amhranai."
Arion was less than amused by the Treasurer's attitude. To deal with his own feelings, Arion watched the assistants and other guests. At least this seems to be the real Hior. What sort of people would willingly follow this serpentine 'minister?' During his survey of the great hall, Arion noticed Lureene's powerful glare upon Celadrendir. I wish for her honor to be promoted. Now is the hour for the Vicereine's designs to prevail. Be patient, my love; we shall yet see justice upon this person, in due time.
Sasha is attractive, even during her precious antics Arion made an effort to conceal his amusement and wrote upon a narrow slip of paper. Looking up again, he took in each position and demeanor of the guests present. Surely these fixtures of Port Eldarion would not openly make an attempt upon the life of our Princess, IF they are who they appear to be. Given the recent intrigues, we cannot be too certain. Arion handed the slip of paper to Lureene covertly and folded his hands behind his back as they took their places near the Princess. His right hand held his Quill, ready to transform it at need. Rolls & Lureene: You look ravishing !
Although it was traditionally the day of the week for resting, Arion had never been particularly observant of such rituals. It had pleased him to rise early and put his new office in order while exploring the Palace in the line of duty. Among the royal entourage, Arion tried to avoid curiosity about the Palace, making quick observations here and there as they walked. Even more appealing was the sight and scent of Lureene nearby, which he tried even more diligently to avoid. Duty, son of Hithraen, duty. "More than sumptuous rest, my night was blessed by what I am certain was a visitation involving the Princess Larathiel. I have written a summary of her messages and the event, should Your Highness desire all the details." Arion then expressed what he deemed was the primary importance of the events in the granted vision, including the battle involving the soul of Lureene and Larathiel's assessment.
Light - more brightly than the spheres and stars combined - revelation, dawned upon the student of Heaven's-Queen. Arion's eyes were opened and, shifting to again watch the distant struggle, the words escaped with his breath, "...a weapon for our enemies." Returning his gaze upon Larathiel, Arion bowed his head reverently, acknowledging, "You are the chief of our special forces for good reason. I compliment Your logic. I find no fallacious premises. Yet, with an incomplete number of axioms, this inductive set of possible conclusions is our only basis. I shall have to uncover more truths. I see now Your interest in these matters. You were justified in suspecting that our enemies have inserted a secret weapon into the life of Alissariel. This threatens even Ilmarond, on a much grander scale than I had imagined."
Arion watched the tower with renewed wonder. His heart leaped to fly towards the battle without delay. "Divine Ranger, thank You for Your guidance, even in this Astral terrain. If they battle for my Angel's soul, I desire to assist Súmalya at once !" He caught himself pausing and looking back to Elsemar, thinking of the Palace in Ilmarond. "Although, I have longed to return home. I sought whatever was good in Dafar, to drive the memories from my heart." One of his utmost inspirations stood beside him; the shining living archetype of what he had valued most in the world.....until he had met Lureene. "I would not waste the effort You put forth, to visit me and explain this. I know that You have Your own battles on different fields, or I would ask You to help us. I count this guidance from You as a great boon." Arion stared towards the tower. "Yes. It must be my Angel's soul, for I love the tower, even from afar and I cannot abide the idea of the enemies conquering her. If The Divine Muse values her so highly as to wage war on her behalf, I must join that war. Might I be so blessed as to have yet more guidance from You, Princess Larathiel? Do our Monarchs send command as to the part I should play? My wisdom pales in comparison to their supernatural attributes...and to Your own."
Arion strained to see the distant conflict, finding that his desire to know determined his focus, rather than the use of physical sight. Return to Ilmarond? You must focus. Have patience. The most royal, heroic legend of your people bids you concentrate upon other matters. Her wish is to you a command. Arion distinctly felt that his attempts to direct his attentions were not confined to his own mind, but could be overheard by Larathiel and those observing him. With force of will he considered her question and what information was before him in the distance. "O Divine Champion of our Vala-King, I have only heard or read of the City of the Valar, in ancient tales. Otherwise I do not know. Are they warring over some fortress under protection of the Valar? You have travelled far in many realms. What is it that we perceive, of that conflict?"
Ah, the chilled winds from this storm are refreshingly cool. These are the best cushions I have ever had the pleasure to use. The thought mixed within, balancing the elements of his consciousness like an excellent wine. Consciousness took flight across dream landscapes. In the dark room, before the open window, and sheets of rain lit by lights outside, was the silhouette of the Sky Elf, cross-legged upon and surrounded by rich bolsters. The Elven Wizard enjoyed a trance and meditation before preparing his spells for the coming day.
Arion petitioned for the exquisitely tapered hand of the Inebriated Corsair. He gently kissed her fingers then moved to free Lureene's hair, where she had caught some tresses beneath her own shoulders and the piles of pillows. Kissing Lureene goodnight also, he sang to them, "Sweet dreams. Sweet dreams. I must bid Thee farewell. Tranquility shall be with Thee warded under this spell." Arion began to back towards the main door of the chamber. He looked up and around and sighed deeply, approving greatly of the interior designs. "Ahh, if I remember correctly what I witnessed, in the official paperwork and manifests, THESE luscious furnishings, and those we passed in these titanic halls, must be the latest investments of Dafar's youngest Valahin. Truly, she is able to grant the divine Domains of Acquisition and Accouterment..." He bowed with utmost courtesy before Princess Kirmoon, with an Elven proverb. Elvish: "...may Thy magnanimity redound to Thy glory. With Thy leave, I retire."
A smile grew ever more prominent upon Arion's face, keeping pace with their group and the conversation. "I rather imagine having a well-connected agent whom others can call upon outside of the Royal Guard's watchful eyes might be beneficial." Arion caught the attention of the lithe and beautiful Spymaster. About to mouth the words 'Thank You' to her, he noticed Tiniel and their ruler watching his expressions. Instead he said, "Thank You, Ladies, one and all. What a savvy strategy. I wonder whether it would be beneficial to invent a dispute, where some sort of conflict occurred within our ranks. The trusted servant was disciplined for his error, yet he deemed it too severe a judgement, or too dishonorable and was overheard in more intimate settings to mumble oaths of revenge against the newly establishing government...or some similar scenario? Although the trusted servant retained his position and proximity to royalty and power, little known to them he was plotting some scheme? Or would it benefit our cause more if everything was ideal within the court? Either way, I am sure I shall enjoy the location. Between my meditations and the rest afforded us during our meal, I have caught up on enough relaxation this evening; enough to quickly regain my spells and get to work on execution of this new plan." To Sasha he quipped, with a wink, "Establishing a spritely new secretary shall have to wait however."
As she extended courtesy to Amelia, her charismatic grace left Arion nodding and remembering the past two days. Standing and lifting Lureene, intending to carry her to a sleeping chamber, Arion paused and spoke so that all nearby could overhear. "Yes, Your Highness. May Your living arsenal be most diversified. So strongly bound to my heart now, are the last words to us all, of Wingilmë, that I shall never forget nor fail to be inspired. Even in deepest adversity, they now bolster the Fortress of my Will. Your edicts reminded me again of our gifts and..." Looking down upon Lureene's tranquil face, Arion searched for the best way to honestly convey his thoughts, without rambling on. "Such a whirlwind these past days have been. Our elite league of...extraordinary envoys..." A light laugh rose up at some recollections of the previous days. "Oh-Sweet-Princess Kirmoon, if You and Baroness Lammontari permit, I shall ensure our friend finds a comfortable bed, then, recover my spells. Might we all regather our powers during this intermission? I shall be ready for the dawn of a better Dafar. Even if, at the ascension of Olarë's Chariot, some Dreamer awakens to find that all this was naught but a Midsummer night's dream."
"Yes, Your Highness. If only I had the resources, I would enchant some device to create protection against evil, for Sasha. We have too much to do here, now, for any of us to undertake a mission in search of such a device for her, of course." Arion massaged Lureene's shoulders, as she leaned forwards onto him. His expression hinted at an aside to the acting Vicereine as he spoke to her in the tongue of Ilmarond. Elvish: "Since Wingilmë transferred her gifts to us, along with heightened powers, I have fought off heightened reflexes of hubris. Between the Imperial Conditioning, my need to please Cainrelée, the growing desire to serve You well and my care for these new family members and friends - which I must say surprises me to have developed so rapidly - I WILL maintain control during my missions."
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