To Stand Against the Crimson Tide

[MasterDAF]

Conrad was glad to make the acquaintance of Lord Paolo and his household, and was careful to mentally link names to faces as he was introduced to different members along the journey to Ombrelune. The minor lord appeared kind and forthcoming, but the Eclipse-caste cheerfully met his questions of origin and status with a convincing fiction. He spun a tale involving an exclusive carpentry trade and selective shipwright work in the Cinder Isles that granted him a moderate level of financial success. He stated a desire to expand his trade network across the shores of the southwest from Ombrelune to An-Teng, and the start of this endeavor is what brought him here at such an unfortuitous time.

Apart from Lord Paolo, Conrad also spent a portion of time during their march speaking with Palm to gather further details on the Bronze Tide assault. With the new information the guard provided about their enemy, Conrad found it potentially concerning that the invaders had continued to camp nearby and conduct additional sorties.

What kind of enemy is this that they can weather a blow from some kind of mass mystical attack and still possess the infrastructure to fight on?

The Solar originally had every intention of splitting off from the group once they passed through the inner walls of the city. He needed to rejoin with Sabah and find out what leads, if any, she had been able to aquire ahead of his arrival. After the kindly lord insisted upon his staying with them and meeting their liege however, Conrad relented and agreed to this requested course of action. Making contact with a powerful family of the city and possibly having them in his debt could prove useful to helping find the lone mystery golden exalt in this giant city.

Upon arriving at the city outskirts, Conrad noticed a few ghostly defenders manning the walls and he took a deep breath. His eyes widened in disbelief as they approached the great entry gate and observed that it was flanked by glowing headless soldiers. Lord Paolo described the Headless Host to the young prince, and he felt the hairs rise on the back of his neck and forearms.

So that is what defends the city after dark? I suppose the Bronze Tide raiders made a good choice leaving when they did. They probably thought I had a bunch of these ghoulish specters in the forest with me, and decided not to find out.

Conrad made camp with his traveling companions outside the city walls, and tried not to remind himself he was sleeping directly beneath the watchful gaze of the restless dead. As sunrise approached he followed Lord Paolo's group inside the city and they made their way to the beautifully manicured gardens of his host's liege.

 

[Equusheart]

Garret does his best to look innocent as he steps back and opens the door wider. "Nothing. It was . . . just these two animals going nuts chasing after one another, and here I am yelling at them to stop as I'm woke out of a deep sleep, not thinking that they were animals and that they won't listen to me. See? There is no one here but us."


The guards and servants bow deeply as Sayuri approaches. Ang, the sergeant on duty this morning, apologizes profusely. "M'Lady, apologies for disturbing you. Jade made up stories of intruders in the guest quarters. WIth things as they are... well, one can't be too careful." Jade glares at Ang from the corner of her eye without breaking her deep bow but decorum does not permit her to say anything, and she's in enough trouble as it is.

Inside the room the cat bares its fangs and yawns with an expression that might have passed for a wide smile on a human, then sets its eyes on the bird hungrily and resumes stalking.

A page enters the garden and is startled to see the Lady Sayuri up, but decides to take the opportunity to pass on the message. "M'Lady, Lord Paolo and his household are outside. They claim to have been saved by a hero and wish to commend him to your family, that you might take him into service."

Sayuri raised an eyebrow suspiciously at Garret, her hands going to her hips. She turned the same gaze on Ang and Jade before craning her neck to look further into the room. Seeing the cat and bird, Sayuri gave an exasperated sigh and pinched the bridge of her nose. It was far to early for any of this.

"Fine," she said with a shake of her head. "See the cat's removed and release the bird outside. And please don't let the bird die, the last thing this House needs is bad luck." Sayuri turned to Jade, trying to keep her tone gentle as she corrected the maid. "Jade, I know you meant well and given all that's happened. But next time be a little more certain before you raise the alarm." Sayuri glanced in the direction of her room. "Now, Chiyo is up in my room scared out of her wits over this. I should like you to go let her know that there is no intrusion and to apologize to her. Alright?"

Sayuri's attention turned to the page as they entered. Knowing there would be no going back to bed now, Sayuri gave a nod of her head. "I shall receive them. See that they are brought in and welcomed." Sayuri would give the others one last glance, an eye of suspicion resting on Garret, before turning to go receive the visitors. Now she was wishing she had tied her hair back after all.

 

[Random Word]

Conrad

Tea is set before you on a small lacquer tray with a light breakfast of fish and rice fried in fragrant herbs and oils. You sit on a soft pillow beside Lord Paolo, his household waiting outside. To your left is a cheerfully gurgling fountain feeding a pond overflowing with lillies in bloom. Surrounded as you are by artfully tended greenery on all sides, you can almost forget the city was sacked only yesterday.

The tea smells delightful, but before you can take a sip a servant announces, "The Lady Akechi Sayuri."

Lord Paolo looks slightly startled, perhaps not having expected someone this important to attend his rather minor request, but he rises immediately to bow deeply. "Lady Sayuri. It is an honour."

Sayuri, Garret, & Sjet

Jade nods glumly and rushes off to do your bidding, struggling to hold back tears. Ang bows before dashing into Garret's room, attempting to catch the cat and take it outside. The last thing you see as you're ushered into the garden to greet your petitioner inspires little hope this morning is about to improve. The cat, clearly not on board with the idea of being removed, deftly avoids his every attempt to apprehend it, leading Ang on a merry chase around the room.

For Garret and Sjet, after Sayuri departs the cat seems to tire of the game and itself dashes from the room. Ang's eyes go wide, having noticed the immense lance now threatening to break Garret's bed. "S-shall I have someone care for that in the armoury, m'Lord?" You get the impression he's mentally attempting to guess how many men he'll need just to move it, let alone who might be qualified to care for it. The motion of the cat draws his attention as a second guard makes a spirited attempt to grab it, but ends up sprawled on the floor as the cat doubles back over top of him to rub up against Sjet's leg, purring happily, before fleeing into the garden with a guard in hot pursuit. The bird, Juruul to Garret, flits to the windowsill and sings merrily, an amused twinkle in its eye.

Conrad & Sayuri

[Describe what the other sees as you meet!]

Lord Paolo's greeting as Sayuri enters the grove is brought to a sudden halt with the thumping of feet as first the cat and then a mortified breathless guard come barreling into the glade. Sabah weaves between Lord Paolo's feet to leap onto Conrad's lap, where she begins to walk circles around him, purring happily, rubbing her cheek up against him.

"M'sorry m'lady. The beast is quicker than a hag's temper. I'll have it out of your way and no more interruptions, I swear," declares the guard, flustered, attempting to both bow and pursue the cat at the same time and succeeding at neither.

Lord Paolo looks from the guard to Lady Sayuri and then the cat, nonplussed.

 

[Sherwood]

Sjet looks over at Garret with a raised eyebrow. She knows that she has heard voices and not just Garret’s, but if he is wanting to tell a fib about this, she won’t throw him under the wagon so long as there isn’t any signs of danger to the household.

Then her attention turns to the heavy suit of armor and tall spear that Garret has somehow gotten a hold of. She looks them over with interest, saying, “It would seem that you have had a busy night, friend Garret. Where did these wonders come from?”

 

[Random Word]

Droplets

Sensing the threat of immediate violence, either from an irate necromancer or a vengeful ghost lord, has passed, the revelers cautiously emerge from behind their banquet tables to get a better look at you. The scribes surrounding Festus confer amongst themselves again. More scrolls are unrolled, notes are taken, tallies are made, before one of them whispers in his ear. A semblance of alertness returns to those cold dead eyes as they narrow shrewdly. "My factotums tell me we have resources we could yet send to the mortal world this night, but they are allocated to the defence of our city from the encroachments of the hateful Lion. Will you guarantee our independence in their absence, dread Deathknight? Will you swear it upon your ancestors, and sign testament in blood?"

The Timeless Order's lawyers have a reputation for fearsome craft and ingenuity. Countless have lost their souls to labyrinthine fine print and obscure uses of millenia old precent in the seemingly endless different jurisdictions of the Underworld. They do, however, abide religiously to the word of the terms of their contracts, if not their spirit.

Spoiler: Arch-Factor Festus Everfull

Essence 4 Ghost, member of the Timeless Order of Manacle and Coin
Resolve 4
Appearance 0

Spoiler: Mechanics

Festus' Resolve is penalized by 2 and boosted by 1, bringing it to 3. Your 6 hits exceeds that easily.

 

[MasterDAF]

Conrad looked about in amazement as he and Lord Paolo took their seats in the beautiful verdant grove. After a night of unexpected injury and impromptu hunting in the jungle, it was a severely welcome change to instead relax and enjoy the foliage around him. In fact, he was fairly sure he had not enjoyed such luxury since he had left his home behind on the Caul those many months ago.

Of course, there were those tiny yellow fish with the glowing fins I almost tried in Brightport. He shook his head gently, smiling at the memory. Sabah was quick to assure me they were a delicacy. And I believed her, or at least, right up until I tried to put one in my mouth, and the little god awoke and darted away terrified...I don't think I've ever seen her laugh so hard.

Having removed his armor the night before and then leaving his armaments with his traveling companions outside, Conrad leaned back and enjoyed the feeling of the soft pillow against his sore backside. In only traveling garments now, somewhat dirty but still vastly more comfortable without the bulky armor strapped over it, he could feel the material of the pillow soft and supple against his finery. He ran a hand absent-mindedly through his disheveled crop of brown hair and listened to the birds singing near the fountain. He closed his eyes a moment and let his hand trail further down the strong contours of his face until it reached the short stubble spreading from one cheek to the other. A relaxed sigh escaped his lips.

Yes, this is certainly a little more my speed.

Conrad prepared to rise when Lord Paolo welcomed their host, eager to exchange pleasantries as expected and make a good first impression. At that moment, however, a lithe cat came running into the room followed by a guard and made a straight shot for the surprised Solar. He recognized her immediately as she landed on his lap, and another smile broke out unbidden across his face. His host momentarily forgotten, he lowered a hand to gently stroke his feline mate as her cheek rubbed against his body.

"It seems you've made quite the entrance Dearest, as always," Conrad teased the Lunar in Flametongue. "I shall like to hear of how you arrived to be here," he paused and looked back over to his host, "later, of course."

The Solar rose to his feet and offered a bow to the young woman, then greeted her in Seatongue "I am glad to make your acquaintance, Lady Akechi Sayuri."

Upon seeing Conrad standing next to Lord Paolo, she will notice his clothing that once appeared personally tailored and expensive now looks as though it was wrung through a sawmill. Multiple areas along the torso remain tattered and reveal small glimpses of his muscular chest and biceps beneath. Unbeknownst to Sayuri, he had dunked his head in a bucket of water before entering the city that morning, so his face appeared to be relatively clean. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for the rest of his body or the slight odor of damp jungle bark and sweat that emanated from it. In spite of these negative factors, she was still able to easily recognize a noble and educated countenance in the way Conrad carried himself and the clear (if slightly accented) diction with which he spoke.

 

[Equusheart]

Despite the slightly chaotic start to the morning, Sayuri managed to smile as she stepped into the grove to receive her guests. She recognized the Lord Paolo as he rose and bowed to her, but the man accompanying him was unfamiliar to her. Her green eyes moved over him curiously, taking in his appearance before returning to Lord Paolo.

While she appeared to have been dressed in some sense of haste, Sayuri still held an elegance befitting a daughter of Akechi. The pale green satin gown, which paled to a cream at the skirts, almost seemed to flow about her as she walked. Contained only slightly by the dark green embroidered wrap around her waist. Her long, inky black hair, while normally tied back into some elegant braid or tie, was left to fall free. Small leaves and blossoms seemed to be woven through her hair by an invisible source, marking her as a Wood Dragon-blooded. As she stopped to return Lord Paolo's bow, a few strands fell passed her face. Sayuri tucked those strands back behind an ear as she rose from her bow.

"It is a pleasure, Lord Paolo. I..." Sayuri glanced about, startled, as her greeting was suddenly interrupted by the cat from earlier as in darted into the grove, the guard following after. Sayuri's lips tightened as her chest puffed up as her anger rose. She turned to the guard; her tongue prepared for a sound lashing at the rude interruption. However, she held her tongue when she noticed the cat leap into the lap of the stranger with... was that a grin?

Sayuri waved the guard off, allowing her temper to cool as she turned to the stranger as he rose. She returned his bow politely, though her eyes were almost accusing.

"Indeed," she replied. "I assume the beast..." Sayuri gestured to the cat. "...belongs to you? It has caused quite the stir in my household this morning."

 

[Random Word]

Conrad & Sayuri

The cat, for her part, rolls over onto her back and starts playing with one of the straps of Conrad's travelling pack, face an adorable picture of innocence.

The guard covers nearby, clearly intent on another attempt to snatch the unruly cat should the guest disavow it.

Spoiler: Mechanics

Sabah will use New Friend Aroma; if you choose not to spend 1WP, take a minor tie of friendly curiosity towards the cat. Only applies if you've just met her current form.

She'll also take the opportunity to roll to Inspire 'Awww So Cute!', leveraging the minor intimacy if accepted.

9 dice plus 2 successes. 5+2=7 hits - if that exceeds your resolve, modified by -1 if the intimacy is there, her Inspire succeeds.

 

[Red Shadow Claws]

Droplets takes a deep breath to center herself "I do solemnly swear upon my ancestors to guarantee your independence from the hateful Lion." And then her gaze bores into his. "Have your cronies draft the document, and I will have one of my associates go over it before I sign it. After all, we don't want any wording there that would be detrimental to me, now do we?!" Her voice is as nice and sweet as can be, but the hidden meaning she gives is: If you dare to try and cross me, I will come back and flay your skin, for I am not one to triffle with.

And she settles back to a more jovial look "Now, if that be whole, I will need a room to rest before I make my way back to Omberlune, to set some things right there. Am sure you can find me suitable quarters that would be sufficient for my needs, when I need to stay here."

 

[MasterDAF]

Conrad chuckled slightly at Sayuri's wording, then nodded his head in acknowledgement. "Haha, I don't know if I could truly say she belongs to anyone. But she is here with me."

Conrad watched Sabah play with the strap on his pack in amusement.

I do not know what you did, my Silver Moon, to receive such a frosty reception from Lord Paolo's liege family. Guess I shall just have to talk us back out of it.

"I am not sure what she did to give issue, but I humbly apologize for her troubling actions and will keep her reined in while we are in your illustrious presence."

The Solar turned to Lord Paolo briefly before turning back to Sayuri.

"And if you and your family are anything like the good Lord Paolo and his generous household," Conrad motioned to his traveling companion, "than I eagerly look forward to experiencing the graciousness House Akechi has to offer.

 

[Random Word]

Conrad & Sayuri

Lord Paolo gives Conrad and the cat a curious look, then shakes his head, bemused, and turns back to Sayuri. "The gods portion fortune in mysterious ways, my Lady. In the midst of the terrible misfortune of the attack, my family and I had the great fortune to encounter the young Conrad. He says he is a carpenter by trade, but clearly he is a hero by calling, for he single-handedly frightened away a band of foreign brigands who had taken my household hostage. It is the least I can do to commend him to your service."

Droplets

The Arch-Factor smiles, a golden jagged gap-toothed thing. "Then we have a deal! Find Droplets of Blood Chilly Wind quarter fit for a queen. Have the terms drawn up and delivered." He peers out at the crowd, squinting, seemingly fading already, "What are you all doing? Celebrate! Let me see you celebrate! And remember how the Timeless Order protects you with blood and coin. Remember who fills your banquet tables. Remember me..." his nodding head slumps as he trails off.

The orchestra picks up and the dancing and feasting resume with abandon. The factotums surrounding the Arch-Factor become a flurry of activity to rival the dance floor, but one of them immediately leads you from the chamber. In the confusion the ghost of the fire worshipper has slipped away. By the time you reach the massive wrought black iron tangle of thorny vines that passes for the door to your quarters, you can already see a neatly ordered line of tiny spirits - ghost birds, wil-o-wisps, and stranger things besides - depositing calling cards, invitations, and small gifts into an inbox tended by a ghostly servant. The vines retract to expose a sumptuously decorated suite of several rooms in royal purple and blood red. The bedroom has an expansive glass window, panes separated by the same wrought iron vine detailing, glass dusted with frost, overlooking the ocean below. You haven't walked far, so you're still near the prow of the massive ship and can see it cleave the dark waters. [WIP]

 

[Psychie]

Sjet looks over at Garret with a raised eyebrow. She knows that she has heard voices and not just Garret’s, but if he is wanting to tell a fib about this, she won’t throw him under the wagon so long as there isn’t any signs of danger to the household.

Then her attention turns to the heavy suit of armor and tall spear that Garret has somehow gotten a hold of. She looks them over with interest, saying, “It would seem that you have had a busy night, friend Garret. Where did these wonders come from?”

Garret looks at the tiny little Solar and gives a sheepish smile. “Um, I’m not quite sure how to explain it without sounding like a madman. It happened during a dream. I saw visions of the resting place of the last body that my Exaltation was in, and Mor’du spoke to me, saying that many had tried to pass through the challenges that protected his resting place, but if I did succeed in running the gauntlet the artifacts interred with his body would be mine to wield. It was an interesting experience, and I’m still not certain that it was real, despite the evidence right there.”

 

[Red Shadow Claws]

Droplets looks out at the dark waters, and then back at the extravagant suite she was given. Just a day ago, she would have scorned anyone if they had dared to tell her that she would be given such honor and such quarters. And just then, the adrenalin, or what passes for such in her dead body, stops affecting her, and she feels light headed and extremely tired.
With great effort she makes it to the bed, and falls asleep before her head even hits the pillow.

Thousandfold Wings curls up near her, and sleeps lightly, guarding it's mistress in case anything happens.

 

[Sherwood]

Garret looks at the tiny little Solar and gives a sheepish smile. “Um, I’m not quite sure how to explain it without sounding like a madman. It happened during a dream. I saw visions of the resting place of the last body that my Exaltation was in, and Mor’du spoke to me, saying that many had tried to pass through the challenges that protected his resting place, but if I did succeed in running the gauntlet the artifacts interred with his body would be mine to wield. It was an interesting experience, and I’m still not certain that it was real, despite the evidence right there.”

Sjet looks at Garret and says, “What you have gone through is rare, but it is not unheard of. Especially when dealing with the Celestial Incarnae in general and Luna in particular. She is known as the Fickle Goddess for a reason, after all. May I take a closer look at the artifacts? I may be able to tell you a bit about them.”

If he gives his consent, she will lean in close to look over the items but will refrain from actually touching them. If he doesn’t, she will keep her distance to avoid angering the big man.

Turning to the side, Sjet looks at Garret and says, “This seems to be the night for expressive dreams. This evening, I had a dream about the manse. It seemed as if it were trying to tell me something, sending so vivid and real to me upon waking that I am convinced that this was not a normal dream. Once I’ve had a chance to eat and refresh myself, I was going to go there to investigate. Would you care to join me in this exploration? Your great strength and shifting forms might come in very useful.”

OOC an intelligence plus lore roll garnered three successes to identify the artifacts.

 

[Psychie]

Sjet looks at Garret and says, “What you have gone through is rare, but it is not unheard of. Especially when dealing with the Celestial Incarnae in general and Luna in particular. She is known as the Fickle Goddess for a reason, after all. May I take a closer look at the artifacts? I may be able to tell you a bit about them.”

If he gives his consent, she will lean in close to look over the items but will refrain from actually touching them. If he doesn’t, she will keep her distance to avoid angering the big man.

Turning to the side, Sjet looks at Garret and says, “This seems to be the night for expressive dreams. This evening, I had a dream about the manse. It seemed as if it were trying to tell me something, sending so vivid and real to me upon waking that I am convinced that this was not a normal dream. Once I’ve had a chance to eat and refresh myself, I was going to go there to investigate. Would you care to join me in this exploration? Your great strength and shifting forms might come in very useful.”

OOC an intelligence plus lore roll garnered three successes to identify the artifacts.

Garret looks down at the smaller woman and says, "Your comments give me hope that I am not going completely mad." He picks up the spear and plants it haft down on the floor and says, "Be my guest. Whatever you can tell me about these items will be appreciated."

He then shrugs and adds, "I have no objections to going with you to examine your manse. I might be helpful, and who knows? I might even learn something about my own Exaltation in the process."

 

[Equusheart]

Conrad chuckled slightly at Sayuri's wording, then nodded his head in acknowledgement. "Haha, I don't know if I could truly say she belongs to anyone. But she is here with me."

Conrad watched Sabah play with the strap on his pack in amusement.

I do not know what you did, my Silver Moon, to receive such a frosty reception from Lord Paolo's liege family. Guess I shall just have to talk us back out of it.

"I am not sure what she did to give issue, but I humbly apologize for her troubling actions and will keep her reined in while we are in your illustrious presence."

The Solar turned to Lord Paolo briefly before turning back to Sayuri.

"And if you and your family are anything like the good Lord Paolo and his generous household," Conrad motioned to his traveling companion, "than I eagerly look forward to experiencing the graciousness House Akechi has to offer.

Conrad & Sayuri

Lord Paolo gives Conrad and the cat a curious look, then shakes his head, bemused, and turns back to Sayuri. "The gods portion fortune in mysterious ways, my Lady. In the midst of the terrible misfortune of the attack, my family and I had the great fortune to encounter the young Conrad. He says he is a carpenter by trade, but clearly he is a hero by calling, for he single-handedly frightened away a band of foreign brigands who had taken my household hostage. It is the least I can do to commend him to your service."

Sayuri raised an elegant eyebrow as she regarded the stranger before her as spoke. Apologizing for the cat that he claimed he didn't own yet was also with him. Sayuri's gaze shifted to the cat as it played with the straps on the man's pack. After a moment, Sayuri gave a sigh. She supposed that the cat would do as a cat does.

"Well, I should like you to keep better track of her," Sayuri said, her tone lighter but still correcting. "She has caused much havoc by chasing birds about my guest's chambers and worrying my servants." Sayuri turned to the guard who was still making the attempt to catch the rebellious feline. "That is alright, let the cat be. I thank you for your help. Please, return to your duties, I shall call if I should have further need of you."

Composing herself once again, Sayuri turned back to Lord Paolo and the man he had brought to her House.

"Now, Conrad, was it? It seems the House of Akechi owes you a gratitude for coming to the aide and defending our noble vassal." Sayuri turned to Lord Paolo, a smile returning to her lips. "And I thank you for bringing him to us. The household could always use another able-bodied warrior. Especially recently."

 

[Random Word]

Droplets

You sleep, the deep dreamless sleep of the truly exhausted and the dead, and awake refreshed to an alluring scent and not entirely unfamiliar scent. There is a tray of polished bone on a small table beside your bed, laden with meat and blood. The blood is warm, fresh from the vein, poured into a crystal decanter, and it smells divine. The meat steams slightly in the icy cold wind blowing in from the sea outside, its flesh rich and red. This creature must have been slain and butchered minutes ago. There are no servants to be seen, but there is a small note scrawled with glistening red blood, ruby bright, on taut skin: You have guests in the receiving room. There is a small stylistically drawn pictogram of a heron, charred in black against the skin.

Sjet & Garret

That these are finely made masterworks of no contemporary style is obvious. You recognize motifs in the decorative elements from dusty old scrolls you skimmed on ancient smith-saints from long lost lands in the far West. You can sense great power sleeping in these works, slumbering fitfully and dreaming of one whose soul might be worthy enough to wake them. You could teach this man the rituals required to wake them and bond them to his soul, like the ancient heroes from your stories.

The small bird sitting on the windowsill tilts his head curiously as Sjet speaks of her dream, head darting about the room to drink in the details.

Sayuri & Conrad

The guard bows, and eagerly takes the provided opportunity to escape.

Sabah appears to be paying no mind to your conversation, but suddenly she pauses in her pawing, she rolls onto her feet, her ears perk up, and her head swivels back towards the direction she came bounding in from.

"My thoughts exactly, my lady. These are dark times. I fear for our plantations. We packed up what we could, but we could hardly bring the slaves with us, and who knows what those barbarians might do to them!" He shakes his head, distraught, images of burned fields and razed buildings doubtless flashing through his mind.

 

[Red Shadow Claws]

Droplets is surprised to be feeling this refreshed, but the sweet smell of the breakfast is enticing. She holds back a laugh that this wasn't any breakfast she would have found enticing until yesterday, but then she remembers that she's not the person she was until yesterday.
She eats and drink her breakfast at a normal pace, and then puts on her garments, and walks out to the receiving room to welcome these guests, unclear of this heron mark. But as she does, she spends some of her essence, and her caste mark appears on her forehead. Whomever these guests are, they probably know she's a Deathknight, and reinforcing it with her caste mark would just lend credence.

Spoiler: OOC

Spending 12 motes, 7 on the indefinite duration pf Elegant Tyrant's Majesty, and 5 on Exquisite Elegant Style for the scene

 

[Random Word]

Droplets - Receiving Room - The Prow - Ombrelune-Beneath

There is no 'morning' here, but outside the windows of the richly appointed receiving room the stars have been replaced by faintly luminous grey clouds. The waves remain as black as ever. The furniture is hewn from blocky granite but strewn with plush pillows in purple damask. Blood gurgles gently from a fountain off to one side. Deep shadows are cast by purple pyreflame sconces. The room smells strongly of incense, dust, and the tangy, savoury aroma of fresh blood.

Three figures greet you with deep kneeling bows. They are robed in black velvet chased with delicate silver embroidery. The one on the left is a hulking woman, broad shouldered and thick of limb, and yet she moves with ease and grace when she drops to one knee to bow. The woman on the right is tall and lanky, willow thin. The one at the centre is somewhere in between, and she speaks with a clear sonorous voice, "We bear the well wishes of our shared mistress. She sends us as a gift to you, honoured Deathknight, that we may become extensions of your dread will." All three of them rise and lift their heavy hoods. Their skin is pale and faintly luminous, shot through with black veins. Their irises are blood red. The tall lanky one on the right has what appears to be significant ritual scarring and elaborate piercings around her eyes.

The one in the middle speaks again, "I am Clotho, spinner of tales," she offers with a bow. You notice her tongue is split and pierced with silver. "I can win you the trust of your enemies, or ruin them before their peers. These are my sisters."

The one on the right speaks, her stare unnervingly intense, "I am Lachesis. I gather. I assess."

Clotho gives Lachesis an impatient glare.

"I'm a spy," she adds, matter of factly.

The woman on the right speaks with a deep, powerful voice, "I am Atropos. I end lives that are beneath you to snuff out. I work quietly, and untraceably."

Clotho nods approvingly. "Our mistress wishes to convey to you her will, and her seal, that you might represent her as necessary." Clotho bows low and presents an elaborately carved ring of what appears to be dark iron, but where the light of the sconces illuminates the surface you can see the slowly moving faces of souls in anguished torment. Atop it shines a faceted ruby within which, when viewed at just the right angle, is stylized black heron symbol on the note from your room.

"She wills that this city be yours, de facto or de jure, and secure from... undue external influence. Our mistress does not wish any of her rivals to take from you what is rightfully yours. Once the situation in the world of the living has stabilized - and she wishes to assure you her support will be both considerable and unwavering in this matter - she bids you join her in Stygia for training. She sends her deepest apologies she is not here to greet you in person, but will make every attempt to visit you when current delicate matters are... resolved, and has every confidence your ruthlessness and competence will see you triumph."

 

[MasterDAF]

Conrad nodded along to the conversation, smiling at the mention of graditude for his prior actions. He was glad their discussion was moving in a more positive direction. Silently he wished a prayer to the Sun, asking that Sabah continue to behave so as not to disturb the meeting further. He listened to Lord Paolo broach the subject of slaves and other property left behind in their haste to escape, and shared in the sadness of imagining their unbearable position as hostages to be vicitmized at the whim of the mauraders.

Oh greatest of the gods, surely you did not call me here with an expectation that I single-mindedly pursue a circlemate at the exclusion of defying villainy? If I am to take a further role in the defense of these people, please give me a sign of affirmation as to that effect.

Though he did not personally know these people Lord Paolo spoke so passionately of, he felt a kinship with the older man over his despair at their plight. Listening to a lord who professed to actually care about his people, even down to the wellbeing of his slaves, tugged at the Solar's heart and his desire to defend the undefended. He could not leave them wanting in their time of need. Not when the enemy still camped so near. Not when there was still evil to be vanquished.

I am one of your Chosen. It is my duty to use your gifts to defend the weak and cast out the wicked. Your silence on the subject doesn't change that; I have an obligation to these people, as one who can help.

"Lady Akechi," the Solar addressed his host directly, "moments ago you mentioned a willingness for your household to take on another warrior. Into what station would such a warrior be placed?"

From the corner of his eye, Conrad noticed Sabah's change in body language. In an effort to avoid further feline antics, he stooped to pick her up in his arms and gently pet her as he continued speaking with Sayuri. "More to the point, would such a warrior be granted authority to lead?"

The charismatic prince looked briefly to Lord Paolo, the determination in his eyes meeting the sadness reflected in the other man. "If given a small force of soldiers willing to serve under the command of an outsider, I believe I can damage your enemies enough that they retreat to their encampment and quit the raiding of outlying settlements."

He turned back to Sayuri, "with your support, of course, mi'lady."

OOC

Conrad attempts a Persuasion roll (based on assumption she has an intimacy related to caring for her household/vassals, if not I guess the roll fails?) to convince Lady Akechi Sayuri that he could be a useful military asset for her household in rescuing the rest of their outlying vassals and serfs. Rolls Charisma (5) + Presence (4) + 1 Pt Stunt (2) = 11 dice. He also spends 5m (personal) on Harmonious Presence Meditation to reduce social charm costs for the scene and gain 3 social dice, and spends 2m (personal) on Impassioned Discourse Technique to channel his major intimacy of defending the undefended to add 3 dice and 1 auto success. In total he rolls 17 dice, adds 1 success, and nets 11 successes.

Spoiler

Active Scene Charms:
- Harmonious Presence Meditation

HEALTH LVLS
-0 [ ]
-1 [ ][ ]
-2 [ ][ ]
-4 [ ]
Incapacitated [ ]

ESSENCE
Essence: 1
Personal: 13 / 13
Peripheral: 32 / (32) 33
Committed: 1

WILLPOWER: ●●●●● ○○ / ●●●●● ●●
LIMIT: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] - [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]

COMBAT STATS
Join Battle: 6 +3i

DVs
Dodge DV: 4* (3 w/ armor penalty)
Parry DV: 6
Resolve: 3* (4 against persuade)
Guile: 3

 

[Red Shadow Claws]

Droplets looks at the three women. It seems that Heron has been ready for her to make her appearance in the Underworld. She remains impassioned as they tell about themselves, and is scrutinizing them. She was cynical enough to know that these women are string attached, but she also knew that she needed whatever support she can get to keep things under control, especially if the Lion is also interested in this city.

"I accept your service, and the ring you gave me, though, for various reasons, notably, the fact that I told the Arch-Factor that I do not serve any of the Deathlords. I will ease him into it, as time goes by." She says with a smile that most people would find disconcerting on her hideous visage. "So, tell me more about your capabilties, after all, if I am to utilize you to the best of your abilities, I need to know what your'e capable of. Also, I need to know how well can you serve in Creation, and whether there are any means for us to remain in contact if we get separated between Creation and the Underworld. Do note, that I have the means to find the cracks between the Underworld and Creation to travel between them, but they're not always open."

She takes a pause a bit before continuing "You said that She will provide me with considerable support. Have you any idea what that support might be?"

 

[Random Word]

Droplets

Clotho bows her head, "Of course, dread mistress. The Heron has opened an account for you with the banking house of Rathkar, well regarded, members of good standing of the Timeless Order, and longtime clients of our liege. I have the promissory note here, which you may draw upon in any civilized city of the Underworld. I have also prepared for you at our liege's instruction a suitably fanatical and pliable congregation who expect the arrival of their messiah imminently." [Tell me what sort of cult you'd like - what stratum of society their members draw from, what ties them together, etc - and when you want to introduce yourself to them!]

"As to how we may best serve you, we can travel to the land of the living by puppeting corpses at night. Say, for example, you have need for someone you have slain to appear hale and hearty for a party. We are more than capable of acquiring corpses for our own use suitable to attend you on any occasion. The Ferrymen can deliver your will to us. Their bond as messengers is sacrosanct, but we will provide a cipher nonetheless for sensitive directives. When we have no pressing task from our liege we will enact your will as her own. I am skilled at spreading rumours and confidence games. My sister Lachesis is best tasked to study a target to find their weaknesses, investigate a mystery, or locate your prey. My sister Atropos is best suited to more violent ends, though she can ably stalk a target. The more deadly and well protected the quarry, the more we will have to prepare before she strikes. She excels both at sending a message and making deaths appear mere accidents, as you desire."

 

[Red Shadow Claws]

Droplets marvels at this turn of events. "I thank you, and the Heron. While I understand that your allegiance is firstly to Her, you'll need to conduct yourselves as if your loyalty is to me, for appearances sake. I think it's best if one of you stays here at all times, to monitor the Arch-Factor. For now, I want you, Clotho, to monitor the Arch-Factor serving as my 'Voice' here in the city. I am certain that you can get any rumors flying in the city, both about him, and the various visitors he got from the Lion. Plus, gather those who would be my congregation from among the lower rungs of the inhabitants. The downtrodden will be more likely to believe in a messiah to help them, and will be more beholden."
She then turns to Lachesis "Your set of skills is impressive, and there is one person I'd like you to track down. There was an heretical temple of the volcano goddess. Most of its priestesses and their families died when I raided the place, and brought to them the wrath of the Old Laws, for their heretic ways, and their betrayal of the city, and the worship of the Ancestors. But, one of their numbers, the lead priestess, was Exalted as a Chosen of the Volcano goddess. I want you to track her down, and find me where she's gathering her forces. I know that she will plot a revenge, and she will likely seek tos trike when the city is endagered once more, plus, I have an invested interest in her final demise."
And finally she smiles at Atropos "There was a sorcerer with the Bronze Tide that I would love for you to kill. I can give you his description, but he might well be protected not just by mortal troops, but also by his Lunar patron. It is a dangerous job, as I do not whether they'll be able to see that you're possessing someone, but if you can stalk him, and at least learn something about the sorcery he wields, it would be of great service."

She then turns to all three at once "I have heard the tales of artifact weapons, and if I am to do my job, I need to find a suitable weapon, at the very least, to do my job. Keep an eye out for suitable Artifacts, and let me know. I will claim one for myself, so we can all do out job better."

Spoiler: Cult

The Cult should be ghosts from the Underworld, preferably on the lower rungs of the society. They could well be some of those who witnessed her arrival to the ball, or from those who've heard about it.

 

[Random Word]

Droplets

They bow deeply and speak in unison, the deep voice of Atropos, the middle voice of Clotho, and the high voice of Lachesis, "As you will, dread mistress." By your leave they depart to attend to their duties. You're left alone in the waiting room, with a small bell to summon the serving staff should you wish them. There are a long list of petitioners who seek audience with you, but Sjet remains in the world of the living, her fate, and the fate of the city, uncertain. Do you wish to treat with the dead and build your power base, and return to the sunlit lands?

 

[Red Shadow Claws]

Droplets will return to the sunlit lands. As much as she wanted to build her power base, she knew that there are events afoot in the sunlit lands that needed her more immediate attention.
She will graciously inform the Arch-Factor that she is leaving for now, but she is leaving Clotho as her voice, and that if the need arises to contact her.