Further Adventures in New Ganthar (IC)

[esorscher]

"If my death helped to bring peace, I suppose that is enough." Gunn says. "Besides, I'm here now, aren't I!?" He claps Sister Rosalind on the shoulder in a sign of aggressive camaraderie.

Then, he stares at the spot occupied by the mind. "If you are friend, reveal yourself. If not... well you've seen what we can do." His tone is stern, and not at all forgiving.

[Timble]

Yara tells the crystal to keep distant and keep hold of the lens. For the next part she needed to get herself arrested. She didn't know if she was being followed, so she needed to at least appear to be arrested.
She contacts the crystal again. It was to locate the nearest guard and telepathically communicate with him.
"Do not be alarmed," it is to say. "I am Yara, the woman who helped bring down the Black Wyverns and stopped a bunch of you from going out and breaking the law. I am going to need your help. Please nod if you accept."
She waits nearby for the crystal to relay his answer. If she could get him to arrest her and take her to the guard captain, she could use the crystal to contact Theo and Lothrain and bring them to her. They seemed to be the logical people to contact.

[dantiesilva]

"If my death helped to bring peace, I suppose that is enough." Gunn says. "Besides, I'm here now, aren't I!?" He claps Sister Rosalind on the shoulder in a sign of aggressive camaraderie.

Then, he stares at the spot occupied by the mind. "If you are friend, reveal yourself. If not... well you've seen what we can do." His tone is stern, and not at all forgiving.

Feeling uncomfortable Sister Rosalind looks away as she speaks. " Some things were said about you Mr. Gunn from my opponent that almost complicated things. He said you were a gangster, and that your people were the ones that got the guards killed when the attack on the gang took place a few days back. I denied it, however a lot of the things he said about you, it was as if he knew you or something." she says not sure of who the man was standing besides her was anymore, espically with his cold demeanor. "Yes you are here, which if you are willing I would like to talk to you about when we don't have someone hiding from us." she notes turning her attention to the more serious threat at the moment.

"If you turn yourself over now I promise you will have a fair trial if you mean this temple harm. Refuse and I can not promise you any safety."

[esorscher]

"I've no hand in any guard's death," Gunn says firmly. "Sadly my past is a bit more checkered than I'd care to admit, right now," he says, glancing around at all the passers-by and potential eavesdroppers. "But since you bring it up, I was hoping you'd be able to help me turn over a more legitimate leaf, if that's something your inclined to do. Let's talk more, later, after this is all settled down." Then he turns back to the invisible mind. "Well? What'll it be? You know we know where you are; you won't be able to hide from us for long."

[dantiesilva]

As Gunn tells Sister Rosalind that he has never had a part in any guards death her heart is at ease, however that soon vanishes as he admits that his past was another story when it came between right and wrong. "It is the job of the faithful of the Lovers to show those who come seeking help a better way of life. So long as it seems like what you are doing is for good, I will do everything I can to help you Mr. Gunn, you have done a great deal for me in the past year, what kind of person would I be if I turned my back on you after hearing you had a checkered past without allowing you to at least explain." she says kindly, bowing her head to Perseus. "I assume your meeting with the Lady of the Forest went well?" Looking back to the two of them she looks to Lady Amalthea. "Everyone this is Lady Amalthea, Lady Amalthea this is Tomas Gunn of New Ganther and the Warrior Perseus of Clan Ironshield." she says introducing everyone as she looks to Lady Amalthea. "Perhaps surrounding this voice will work better?" Rosalind suggests. "I hope so, even though we only have a general idea." the unicorn points out as both she and Sister Rosalind begin walking towards where they had heard the person, trying to cut off two escape paths.

[esorscher]

"Perhaps we can hold off on introductions until after our unseen adversary reveals themselves," Gunn suggests, not wanting to accidentally betray information to the enemy.

[ilinares]

Spoiler: Yara

Show

The psicrystal finds a young, bored-looking guard patrolling nearby. He has paused in his duties to sit and take a drink from a flask at his hip, when the psicrystal relays your message.

The boy looks briefly terrified at hearing a voice from nowhere, staring in suspicion at a flask which presumably contains something other than water. Nonetheless, he shakily nods his head.

Spoiler: Everyone else

Show

"It seems that, as well as lacking focus yourself, you inspire the same fault in those who follow you."

The voice is Asoryala's, and a moment later the elven priestess-***-mage stands before you, visible to the naked eye.

"You may consider your Trial a failure, Sir Theodore. Clearly, you lack commitment to seeking the role before you; discernment to know friend from foe; or the faith to entrust the defence of this temple to those charged and empowered to do so.

"There will be a further Trial on the morrow. Until then, I suggest you reflect on whether the High Priesthood is really for you."

[dantiesilva]

As the woman Asoryala's speaks Sister Rosalind listens, coming to realize Theo was being tested in some way, and in doing so he had somehow failed. Choosing her words carefully she speaks up. "You say Theo lacks focus, and inspires it in those around him but look at what he inspired and accomplished. Prior to him arriving to battle that unholy creation I can only assume you brought into this temple what was everyone doing? When I arrived I saw only Sir Theo, and the Knight Ember from your cloth battling a beast that was inside your temple. No wounder the dwarves see us as children that it took one of their own as well as an outsider to come and stop this beast you somehow had brought into your own temple." Sister Rosalind says looking to Lady Amalthan. "We came at behest of a far higher power than you to make sure the worst possible fate did not befall these lands, and behind us in a few days hence shall be more coming to help us fix our problems. Had Sir Theo and Ember died because of your brilliant idea a darker furture would have come into being. So why don't you think on that next time before you some creatures from the outer planes to challenge someone. Or is allowing your flock to die, acceptable in your eyes for some test?"

Spoiler: Diplomacy

Show

(1d20+25)[39] Trying to show her the era and how she went about testing theo, that there was a better way to do so.

"As for the defense of this temple, I see no templars here besides Ember who was a canidate to become the next Lord Commander. Tell me where is your Lord Commander PROTECTING the flock or his templars when a being of the lower planes enters their temple? I can tell you where I was when a Bodak walked into mine. And I can also tell you exactly what I did to it, and everyone of its friends that I have seen. With no Templars, or Lord Commander protecting the flock does it not fall on each man woman and child of said flock that have the ability to protect others to do so? You say that creature was a friend, friends do not leave others barely alive. And that is exactly what I walked into when I had to come and save your faith because of your inability to control a creature from the lower planes." Sister Roslaind says, pointing out that had it not been for Theo and this was a real attack many would have died because the templars were slacking in their job that it befell others to take up the mantle.

[esorscher]

"This is not our place to judge," Gunn cautions Rosalind. "If Priestess Asoryala summoned the devil, then the Temple was never in any real danger." He nods in deference to the priestess, defaulting to an attempt to ingratiate himself in order to curry some future favor. Then he returns his attention to Rosalind as he begins, "You, I, and Perseus have much to catch up on. Perhaps we should leave Theo to his duties, and he can join us later?" he says, his voice trailing upward and his eyes pointed at Theo as he voices the question. Attention back to Rosalind, he suggests, "I am sure you would like to check on your hospital, that seems as good a place as any for us to meet."

[gallagher]

Theo, embarrassed and frustrated, did not know how to respond. After all, he merely reacted to the explosion as he had for the incident that claimed Brother Obren's life. Instead of protesting, he resorted to the next best thing and simply nodded. I am sorry to disappoint you, Asoryala. I will reflect on this, and hope to do better tomorrow.

He had hoped to leave with some dignity at that, until Sister Rosalind cut in defiantly. Appalled, Theo retorted, I said it before, it is not for you to challenge my temple's official business! referring to when she challenged Niall on Obren's fateful night. He then left, and headed to the palace for his meeting with the Chancellors.

[dantiesilva]

"What happens in this temple is none of my business, however when I am sent to keep peace and stop a war, and have to get called back before I can even tell the prince that peace has been agreed upon because someone is about to bring the end of the world that is my business." the priesstess of the Lovers says backing down from none of them, she had already been through enough today, and she would be damned if these fools ruined all her hard work in a matter of moments.

"Let me make this clear, to all of you now. Stop fighting each other, our enemies are working together to promote us infighting like children. We must show a united front, the dwarven kingdom will have soldiers here to support us soon, and if a single dwarf dies in New Ganther in that time," she makes a point to look at Perseus " We will be once more seen as unhonorable and instead of coming to help us stop cultist from performing some ritual we will be trying to defend ourselves on two fronts. So I don't have time for the petty bickering of children, if you won't listen I am asking to speak directly to the leader of your temple, so that I can fill him in on what happened while I was away. Or would you like to keep trying to kill each other over some test, maybe next time I won't patch you up." the priestess says letting out all of her fustration.

She had been attacked at sea, thought Gunn was dead, only to be presucted by Perseus when she landed in his homeland before being put on trial for a crime she knew nothing about before finally having to deal with her polar opposite. Then when she finally had a peace of moment she was told she needed to go save her friends before they died only to be told she had no right to speak? "Perhaps it was a mistake escorting you to these lands. When you can not trust the ones that are supposed to be your allies." Lady Almantha says out loud as Sister Rosalind mounts her. "I see the dwarves were right about the world of man. It wants to destroy itself. Mr. Gunn I will be going to inform the prince of current events. You are welcome to join me or wait here with the children. Honored Perseus of Clan Ironshield, I am sorry you have to see humanity at some of its worst, would you also like to accompany me, if not that is fine. Know though that your councilor joined me looking for you before I arrived here." Sister Rosalind tells him so he knew that his clan was still aware of him.

[esorscher]

Gunn nods, and so does Perseus, agreeing to follow Sister Rosalind (on foot) to the palace. Once they are outside the Temple, Gunn offers some unsolicited advice. "Remember that the three of us share a common purpose--and more, too, would no doubt join us, if they were brought on board willingly. The divisive forces have been at work for a long time, and their hold is strong. It may be easier for you to wrest their hold on the minds of our fellow New Gantharites if you appeal to their egos rather than attempt to verbally beat them into submission." He smiles weakly to show that the offering is made in good faith.

However, he quickly moves on to an open and forthcoming history of his criminal past, with no intent to conceal. He speaks quietly, for Sister Rosalind and Perseus's ears only, though it is possible the unicorn can overhear. Moving through the crowds as they are, it is unlikely anyone will catch more than a fragment or two. "I was an orphan on the streets of New Ganthar, and my benefactor plucked me from the gutters and made me into the man you first met, all those years ago. Well, something of that man. I would like to credit myself that I had already begun my process of self-actualization at that point, but the truth is, my loyalty was earned by my benefactor's fair treatment of me, regardless of her cruel disposition toward others. And indeed, my benefactor is cruel, but I ultimately I am--or was happy with who she turned me into.

"I realize now I should be speaking in the past tense. When I left New Ganthar, she had me declared dead, and began the process of seizing control of my assets--a simple matter, as we use the same local bank. This betrayal would be enough, but, Sister, she also has taken control of your trust as well. I'm sure she has no intent to deprive you of your hospital, but I'm also sure she'll soon be wanting to exert some power over you, if she hasn't in your absence. Perhaps by forcing you to allow her to charge a fee for your services, or to curtail your clientele. I'm sure you'll resist, and I'm also sure we can prevent the whole exchange.

"As I mentioned, both I and my former benefactor used the same local bank--a predatory lender who traps the impoverished of the Poor Quarter in a cycle of debt that they can never escape, living paycheck to paycheck and never able to become economically secure. If there is a greater evil than that, I know it not. I also happen to have a map of the bank's security systems in my possession, having designed them most myself. I'm sure my former benefactor has made some improvements, but regardless, it's my intention to retake control of the assets stolen from us, as well as cripple this bank and my former benefactor from further operating in the Poor Quarter.

It's then perhaps that Sister Rosalind might realize that Gunn is speaking from a place of guilt. "If I could go back and prevent your hospital and your way of life from being threatened I would, but alas, the gods have not seen fit to grant me that power. With your help, however, I believe I can make amends in this way. It's a matter we can discuss further, later, if you're open to it, after we've finished at the Palace--it goes without saying, I hope, that this is not something to speak of with anyone."

"You talk of turning over a new leaf," Perseus grumbles, "But this is criminal behavior, too. Your mission should not be to seize, it should be to execute. That is a fitting justice to the crimes your former benefactor is guilty of."

"But what would the effect of her death be against a system of injustice? How can we even speak of what is the fair and appropriate punishment in such a case? If she dies tomorrow, the starving remain starving, the homeless remain homeless, and the sick remain sick. But by redistributing the wealth she has accumulated, by force, as it is necessary, perhaps then we can bring about some meaningful change."

"These are your affairs," Perseus says dismissively with a wave of his hand, "I will assist, if only to hasten their completion and not delay us from our true purpose."

[Timble]

"Great," the crystal says. "I am currently disguised. I'm going to need you to arrest me. I'm going to pretend to attack you in..."
As it counts down, Yara comes up from behind.
"For Maltur!" she shouts. she charges and reaches for her knife, but purposely trips. Groaning, she waits to be arrested. She didn't have to make it look convincing from her end, if she was being watched than they knew about the plan to be arrested, they just wouldn't be able to guess her reasons..
"That's me. Take me to your leader," she has the crystal say.
Once she was being taken away, she has the crystal fly back to the temple district to locate Theo and Lothrain.

[ilinares]

Spoiler: Theo, Gunn, Perseus, Rosalind

Show

"It is precisely because of the dangers before us, and because there is no leader for you to speak with, that we must take care to choose the right man to succeed him," Asoryala responds calmly, before turning and taking her leave of you.

Spoiler: Theo

Show

As you make your way to the palace for your meeting, a guard approaches you.

[B]"Pardon, Sir Theodore, but I have a message for you. The lady Yara requests your presence. She is currently in custody at the guardhouse in the Docks. It seems she assaulted a guard, while in disguise."

Spoiler: Yara

Show

You are soon brought into custody in the nearest guardhouse, where you are placed in a cell on your own. The cell is clean and tidy, and the guards respectful, but you cannot help but recall your recent incarceration and trial for the demon-inspired attack against the former Chancellor, Martak.

There seems to be nothing for it to wait - until, that is, a note is passed to you alongside your meagre meal of bread and cheese.

The handwriting is unmistakably Shroud's, the message brief indeed:

The Sword of Aenar.

Almost immediately after you read this, a middle-aged man in the uniform of a sergeant enters.

"Yara, is it? Mind telling me what this is about?"

[Timble]

Yara uses the time she has to wait to clean off her disguise and cancel the illusion.
'Is this the next relic?' she thinks, reading the note. She'd need to get in contact before she could know what it was.
"Sorry for the Disturbance," she tells the man. "I've been involved in the investigation into the Malturite cultists and I just managed to find where they are. I infiltrated a group of them and they wanted me to get captured to deliver a misleading message to the guards, however the point of the message is based on false information I gave them. I just got myself arrested to make sure that if they were watching me, they would think that their plans were working. Speaking of that message, I may as well take a look now."
She takes the message out and opens it up, giving it a read through before handing it over.

[dantiesilva]

“So your church is without a leader, and you are not electing one today? I thought chain of command worked where the person under the leader became the new leader?” Sister Rosalind says with a sigh. “Either way a representive of the church of Charis should be present, as should one from every other church when I explain what happened overseas. Saying you have no leader I assume you or Theo can bring it to the attention of whoever it is that says yes or no to things?” she asks Asoryala before leaving with all those who choose to follow her out of the temple, astride Lady Amalthan the entire time, and while she spoke to the others inside she began to explore the connection her and Lady Amalthan shared mentally.

“Mr. Gunn the problem with the world is people’s egos. They want to be stroked and told they are the best to do what should be as simple as breathing to them. You tell a man who is rich that there is a family starving on the streets and he wants to know why he should help them. As if being poor and hungry was a crime and for someone to fix it they need to be given a reward of some kind. When will people start looking out for one another just because they should do it?” she says letting out a long sigh before looking directly at Mr. Gunn. “I know you never made it to the dwarven lands, however honestly after seeing how they live I can see why we look like savages to them. By no means are they perfect, however there is a comradery and general wellbeing for one another that I have seen very little of within New Ganther. Even Perseus looked out for me and those of another clan when we were under attack even though we were not seeing eye to eye on things. So I don’t understand why it is so hard to get those who want to work together to do so here without having to stroke their egos.” Sister Rosalind explains.

“The church of Charis is supposed to protect the paths between the worlds and stops demons from invading, or at least gaining a foothold. Yet instead they are bickering on who should sit on a throne when a demon cultist are trying to preform a ritual somewhere within New Ganther. The church of Berun, won’t heal people if they are going to go fight again which is absloutly absured. How is a warrior fighting a demon supposed to leave his brothers to die because he needs to be healed. Everywhere I look in New Ganther I see people who are only looking out for themselves. Caring nothing about anyone else unless it helps them, and after seeing that it is not only my world that views things differently I am honestly done with tip toeing. Torae is the Mother who welcomes us upon our death to the afterlife, however it is Kirest who made us to be gifts, if we choose to be all we can be or not is up to us. The temple of Charis wants people to stay out of their business than they can either do their duty or they can listen when others speak. Because honestly there is something rotting in that place and if the prophecy I was told a day ago is true something will happen with that church being directly at the center of it all. The question is will Theo be there or not.”

Listening to the tale that was being told Sister Rosalind commented very little until at last Mr. Gunn Finished. “The path to righteousness is not an easy path, but if you are willing to walk it I will help guide you along your path. As to this benefactor she has made two mistakes, one she declared you dead the moment you left, on a mission sanctioned by the prince meaning she just opened a can of worms with the highest form of law so getting your business, as well as all the money it had should be easy. As for my temple, I will speak to the prince, he had people going there last I checked while I was away. If she has tried to profiter in my absence she will learn that the Mother’s love is not all incompassing, and when I close the doors to her men many I suspect will soon turn on her.” The priestess smiles. “I am sure you have heard of temples being warded against unwelcome visitors, should she try to force me into doing what she wishes I will have to make such protections become active. And I doubt even she would try walking into my temple once I do so. People forget the empire I come from has been around for a long time, we have learned the ways of war to protect ourselves. And have champions if needed granted by the Lovers in our darkest times of need. I have never attempted such a calling before, however I will not allow the Temple I have been asked to oversee be taken over by thugs.”

“Sadly to do such a thing would only cause more chaos Perseus, I believe I understand what Mr. Gunn wishes to do and it should have the same outcome as what would happen if your own people tore it down brick by brick.” Sister Rosalind says, “ I will help so long as you continue to walk the correct path Mr. Gunn, that means only killing in self defense and helping those less fortunate then you. Do you believe you can take these vows? No consequences will befall you for swearing them and breaking them besides my trust.”

[esorscher]

Gunn listens to all that Rosalind has to say keenly, considering his response with care. There is no flaw in her logic, and he shares the same emotional sentiment, but he is tempered by years of practicality. "Did your gods give you the power to separate the ego from the human psyche? No, as you say, even you find it impossible to achieve your objectives when you ignore that part of the equation. As much as you and I might agree that it is detestable, one thing I have found in my dealings with the world is that as much as I might wish it were otherwise, the only way to achieve success is to accept the reality as it presents itself to me, and maneuver within it. That is what I intend to do, now. I have arranged a meeting with Chancellor Clauth and Lady Zinetra tonight." He glances at the position of the sun in the sky, and quickens his pace. "Inside every challenge is an opportunity, and perhaps a world-ending challenge can be a world-changing opportunity. It is my hope that the impending war will spur the elite to action, and that they will mobilize the poor quarter economically and militarily in preparation. This will have the dual effect of preparing the citizen militia for invasion, whoever the invader is, but also providing them with an alternative to the criminal lifestyle that, for most, is the only option that offers economic freedom. I have drawn up several business proposals I intend to present, including with your permission an expansion of your hospital to include a school in the healing arts."

He pauses speaking momentarily, then says, "You would, of course, be welcome at this meeting, but I understand if you would rather present your information to the Prince directly. I'm sure you could arrange for such an audience yourself. However, the impending disaster is not on the agenda for discussion--it would be appropriate to deliver that information to both Chancellors at the same time, and I see no reason to include Lady Zinetra in those discussions." Then he smiles, as they reach the city block the Palace is on. "Of course, Sister, I can assure I have no intention to take anyone's life in anything but self-defense, and if I haven't already made it clear, my unwavering intention is to improve the lives of the less fortunate in this city."

[gallagher]

Noting the time, as he did not want to be late to his appointment, Theo decided that Yara would have to wait briefly. I cannot believe she got in trouble again. He thought to himself.

Unfortunately, my appointment is with Chancellor Rithelm, and I cannot keep him waiting on me for Yara. I will have to deal with her second. He says to the guard, Thank you for telling me.

[dantiesilva]

Listening to how far ahead Mr. Gunn had thought out, Sister Rosalind could not help but be impressed.” I already do something similar, though it is a more hands on approach. I do not see a reason why we could not make it an official place to learn the art of healing the mundane way. Though the healings techniques of the Lovers can only be taught to those who wish to become a devote, I can and will teach them everything that does not involve divine magic unless they are willing to, like Pran, become an apprentice.” She explains, knowing the dangers uncontrolled divine magic could cause within a district such as the poor district. “And perhaps we may not see it in our lifetime, but maybe our children will if we set the foundation for men and women to look past their ego’s and into the wellbeing of their fellow people.” The priestess of the Lovers suggests, suspecting that it would be a long a tedious challenge, but one well worth the effort.

“Then Mr. Gunn I hope to be a welcome companion on your walk towards the light. As for your meeting, while I would love to attend I have to deliver the news to the Prince and his chancellors. If they however feel the two of you will be needed I will be more than welcome to have you with us.” Sister Rosalind says with a smile. “And do not worry, so long as New Ganther acts with honor no war shall come. Though the clans are sending aid to take care of the ritual as their return gift to the prince for the one he sent to them.” She says as they arrive at the palace. “Well Perseus would you like to come with me, and meet the leaders of my nation, or with Mr. Gunn, I doubt once the meeting is underway I can get you in so I am afraid I will have to have an answer now.” She explains as they arrive at the gate. Getting down from her seat atop Lady Alamanth she says to the guards at the gate, “ I am Sister Rosalind, priestess of the Lovers, and have just returned from a diplomatic meeting on the princes behalf. With me is the Lady Amalthan, Perseus of Clan Ironshield, and Mr. Gunn who I am sure you know of.” She says kindly to the guards. “If you could please allow us in, so we may discuss the matters we have come here for.”

[esorscher]

"I will accompany you," Perseus says to Sister Rosalind, glancing at Gunn for his reaction, which is a nod of assent. With no one supervising him, it will be only Gunn's internal compass to judge his actions, a first test of which character he will display, now.

[ilinares]

Spoiler: Yara

Show

The note is brief, and to the point.

Halest

Word has reached us that the Lens is in the Temple of Charis. We cannot let this opportunity pass us by, and will be deploying the bulk of our forces to attack them tonight.

Unfortunately, this will leave the Chalice of Relath lightly defended. You must bring all the resources at your disposal to the Crimson Fist headquarters at sunset tonight, to shore up our defences. I will not be there to meet you, but we will talk upon my return - victorious - with the Lens of the Mind's Eye.

Yours in Maltur's name

Darla Stormsdaughter

Once you have finished reading, the Sergeant looks at you expectantly.

"Do you plan on staying the night? If the Malturites are watching, they will be on their guard if you just walk out. Can I arrange a messenger for you?"

Another voice, stentorian and authoritative, heads off that line of questioning.

"She has a messenger. Good afternoon, Yara Darksoul. What desperation drove you to summon me?"

The broad-shouldered Arbiter Lothrain steps into view, your psicrystal flitting around his head.

Spoiler: Gunn

Show

You are shortly brought into the presence of Chancellor Clauth, who looks at you with his beaming, jovial grin and nods a greeting. He is, at the moment, alone.

"Mr Gunn. I see rumours of your untimely demise were exaggerated - or do we have divine intervention to thank for your return to us?"

Spoiler: Rosalind

Show

Accompanied by two of the most unexpected guests the palace has ever seen, you are quickly shown into the Prince's private quarters, already familiar to you from previous meetings.

In the antechamber, you are confronted by Livana and a quartet of royal bodyguards. The young woman eyes you suspiciously.

"Now, I know you aren't who you appear to be, because she is in the middle of the ocean. Who are you, and what is your business here?"

[esorscher]

"Entirely exaggerated," Gunn says confidently, adopting the stronger negotiating position for what he hopes will not be a protracted legal battle. In this case, it is a semantic distinction, but his consciousness shared a body with Perseus's for a time, rather than moving into some great beyond as would be expected after death--enough for him to qualify it as no interruption to his existence, but rather a change."Though certainly the supernatural is responsible for my presence here, I would hesitate to call the witch of the wilds whose magic brought me back here 'divine.' As you can see, I am not dead, despite what certain... rivals of mine might wish. On that subject, any help you can offer in resolving the legal question of my assets would be most welcome, but it is not why I am here, today. Rather, I was told Lady Zinetra would be joining us for this discussion. Is that the case?"

[Timble]

"I don't think staying will be necessary," Yara tells the sergeant. "They won't recognise me without the disguise and as a precaution I can teleport some distance away."
Yara has the psicrystal return to her, reattaching itself to the necklace. It had been away from her for quite some time, so she wanted to keep it close.
"No desperation Lothrain, but when a Malturian red half dragon mentions you by name I assumed you'd want to know."
Yara explains that she had gone in disguise to the temple to confirm whether or not the temple was directly connected to the cultists. The temple's and mercenaries involvement confirmed without a doubt, Yara was then sent out to deliver a misleading message.
"Have a look at this and tell me what you would do if it was true," she says, handing over the note.

[dantiesilva]

As Livana enters the room with a quater of the royal guard Sister Rosalind looks puzzeled, however as she asks her question she begins to understand what is going on. After all two days ago, at least to Sister Rosalind she had just sent a message to the Prince. So being here and there at the same time was, impossible, at least to someone who didn't understand magic. "Livana I doubt I could explain how I am here, and there at the same time, in truth I have a hard time understanding it myself. Suffice to say in two days time from today the council will vote for peace, and well than I go looking for Perseus Ironshield in a place known as the Feywoods if I understand it correctly. Its where I meet Lady Amalthan as well as the Lady of the Forest. I was sent back in time by the Lady in the forest because she had forseen what would transpire if a ritual was not stopped. The peace I made will not be broken I was informed by my leaving that timeline, and returning here, though I can not say how. Martyn should be arriving on a boat in a few days time with a company of dwarven warriors. The return gift to our host gift we gave to them. Though I suspect you still don't believe me when I say I am Sister Rosalind of the Gleaming Rose. So to make this go a lot faster what do I have to do to prove to you I am who I say I am so I can tell you what has transpired as well as the terms of peace." Sister Rosalind says, giving Perseus a look as if to say please don't attack them, after all she knew how big of an insult saying someone wasn't who they said they were first hand.

[ilinares]

Spoiler: Theo

Show

You are quickly becoming a regular sight at the palace, and the guards show no hesitation bringing you to Lord Rithelm - Chancellor Rithelm, you suppose he should now be called.

The old soldier regards you with mixed emotions visible on his face. You know some of his feelings towards you: wariness at the temple's involvement with politics, tempered with recognition that you used it in his favour; a cautious liking for you personally, and a concern for the troubles you seem to frequently herald.

Gesturing to a vacant chair, Rithelm lifts the lid from a tray and reveals a plate of biscuits, a pot of tea, two cups, and - most importantly - a percolator of coffee. In short order he sets about pouring a steaming cup for you, and one for himself, leaving the tea untouched.

"So, Brother Theo. If the reports I hear are true, you are in the running for promotion to the rank of High Priest. To be considered is no small achievement in itself. I congratulate you.

"But you came, I believe, to discuss our shared venture. I have had some reports, and at least one set of papers for a formal complaint. Perhaps, however, I could hear your own report in full?"

Spoiler: Yara

Show

Lothrain's hand clenches into a fist at the mention of the half-dragon.

"Krom Flesheater," he says flatly. "One of the most vile beings currently at liberty in this city. He and I have fought several times; indeed, I slew him once, but his followers recovered his body and brought him back. He never forgot that.

"But we must be careful. His advisor, Darla Stormsdaughter, is clever. She has built up a network of indebted nobles, established the Crimson Fists as a legitimate mercenary group - in short, she has taken the kind of steps Malturites so rarely do, to give her temple the protection of the law. It is doubtful Krom appreciates what he has in her - a regard for legalism isn't high on Maltur's list of desirable traits - but she is the reason they exist publicly."

Then he reads the note. His agitation is clear, as he tenses up, looking ready to rush off to battle in an instant.

"The Chalice has been found?" he asks hoarsely. "And it is here? With the Malturites?

"Oh, Relath preserve me. What am I to do? I can't let this pass - and yet, I take it this is a trap? The idea, I suppose, is that I jump to attack just before sunset, when their defences are weak, only to learn that they're waiting in force.

"Damn their hides. The Chalice cannot remain in their hands - whatever the cost."

Spoiler: Rosalind

Show

Livana closes her eyes briefly, as though it is all giving her a headache.

"How did we first meet?" she asks finally.

[Timble]

"What we do needs to be not what they expect us to do. We know what they plan us to do, it is a trap as you say."
"For tonight we know what they want and where they will be, the opportunity can't be wasted but we can't do what they expect."
Yara thinks about what the trap could be.
"So either they intend to hold us off, which has the problem of us being outside and able to escape, or they let us get in and surround us. I've had my crystal search the temple and I've been inside, so I know a bit about it's layout."
She stops there to see what Lothrain thought.

[gallagher]

Theo is grateful for the coffee, and grabs a biscuit as well. Of course, Chancellor. Theo gives a brief recapulation of the previous night's events; who was involved, when they arrived or left, the kinds of enemies fought and where it all occurred. He included a short segment dedicated to where Yara had gone off to, but did not report on the competition to choose the new High Priest.

As for the High Priest business - Thank you, but I honestly cannot say that I had set out for it. The circumstances of our situation and the support the idea has me believe that it is Charis's will that I ascend to lead her church. But do not worry that it will distract me from this mission. As soon as we find out the next step, I will call a meeting to inform you and gather resources for another battle.

[ilinares]

Spoiler: Gunn

Show

Clauth is about to answer when a knock on the door heralds Zinetra's arrival.

Greetings are exchanged, and Clauth sets about pouring tea for each of you. Once settled, Zinetra turns to you with a smile.

"It is good to hear from someone with a vision of how things can be improved in this cesspit of a city," she says warmly. "Do tell: what is this plan you have in mind?"

Spoiler: Yara

Show

Lothrain nods thoughtfully.

"The cardinal rule of war: don't do what your enemy expects you to do. Strike where his forces are weakest; evade his points of strength, until you are ready to overwhelm him utterly.

"And yet some battles are not about the calculus of victory. Sometimes, the objective is worth risking it all.

"Still... I won't risk my Crusaders against Krom in his very stronghold; they simply are not experienced enough. And I'd rather not appeal more widely for help: it would be dangerous to have word spread around that the Chalice is here. Its recovery is too important to my faith.

"I must go, but with a small team, hopefully one which can get in and out with the Chalice quickly, then escape. But as for whom I take with me...

"There seems little choice but to ask for your help, since your knowledge of the layout is likely to prove invaluable. Perhaps Sir Theo might join me as well. It's a shame Sister Rosalind and Thomas Gunn are not in the country - they proved their skill against the Black Wyverns, and might make a real difference."

[dantiesilva]

Well there is the long version, and the short verison. The short version is I was told the prince was sick from a third party and came to the palace and you questioned how I knew about something only the major churches knew about, asking what I wanted in return for saving the prince. I told you than, as I am telling you now. I need nothing, nor ask for anything, I am a simple servant of the Lovers trying to make the world a better place." Sister Rosalind says with a smile before adding, "Though if you want I can also go into great detail for the long version." doing so if asked to say the story fully.

When at last she was believed the priestess of the Lovers looks kindly to Livana. "Let me guess, while I have been away something happened. I am only guessing this because no one answered my message spell, though then again if in that time line I came back as well, perhaps you had no reason to reply because you already knew the outcome." Sister Rosalind states, the conundrum of all time magic made apparent to all. "Kharheim has voted for peace, and is sending 100 warriors to help us stop a ritual that will be taking place in our lands. What little is know is that three factions are working together, we suspect from what has been seen the Malturites and the followers of the Betrayer, however I am not sure on who else could be helping them at this time. There were certain things both parties agreed would make an incident like this harder to happen again, one of them being having an ambassador of their lands constantly here with their own building and we have one there in their lands. There is also the matter of the first host gift, the one we recieved when they came to our lands. It is still unpaid, and if left as such may undermine the peace we do have. The dwarf besides me is Perseus of Clan Ironshield, he may be able to help think of an acceptable guest gift. I would advise though meeting the company of warriors with an equal size force, showing you are willing to coperate and work together with them. Showing that New Ganther and Kharheim standing united is better than us working against one another. However if we do so, I believe we should ask Kharheim if they would like us to speak with the elves. It seems both have a treaty to have no military presence on this land. In the eyes of Kharheim their guest gift does not break this vow because for all intents the company of warriors answers directly to the prince and his chancellors if I understand correctly. A word of caution though, their is a clan that likes violence more than most. Those that are picked to join the ranks of dwarves coming from Kharheim must be wise, as well as have a cool temper. While the council has said they will forgive us if we defend ourselves, if we are unhonorable it could mean war still. Perseus may be able to tell you more on how to pick such soldiers though a lot better than I. He is a remarkable warrior from what little of battle I have seen."

Spoiler: Diplomacy

Show

(1d20+25)[37]

[esorscher]

Gunn smiles, enjoying the rare experience of delivering a message to an audience that is already persuaded to a shared end.

Using his illusion magic (Silent Image), he creates what is essentially a white rectangle floating in space above his hand, on which, appear words guiding his presentation.

"I grew up on these streets, and I survived the cesspit, as you describe it. It is a fair label, especially in the Poor Quarter. The problem we face is not one of crime or corruption, but rather, scarcity. The resources of this city are divided inequitably among its citizens, and it is this base cause of all our issues: homelessness, unemployment, crime, hunger, the list goes on.

"How then, to best redistribute those resources, so that the rights of those who feel they have earned their position by merit give willingly, and ensure those resources reach the right hands? Our efforts should not be blind to reality: there are criminal overlords in the Poor Quarter of New Ganthar, and to act otherwise would be naive. These organizations must be dismantled, root and stem, so that they no longer can violently exploit the already exploited. Conflict among these various power groups has left the landscape shifting; now is an opportune time for police action to topple the various regimes. I will expand more on that, later on in this presentation.

"However, unless we can replace the role of crime as an economic engine for the Poor Quarter, and a means of economic advancement for them, new overlords will rise to fill the void. The same principles that hold true for an ecosystem, hold true for economics, as I'm sure you well know. Thus, I am proposing a slate of new industries providing opportunities for skilled and unskilled laborers to make decent wages doing legal work, financed by a combination of private interests and the Crown. I will need your help, Lady Zinetra, and Chancellor Clauth, securing the capital needed to start these business ventures, and, as I will demonstrate later on in this presentation, they should quickly prove self-sustaining and offer profitable returns on that investment.

"First, let me pause here, to address any questions or concerns that you may have at the start. If the idea seems sound to you, I will proceed with the specifics of my plan."