Soulriders 5.0: Legend of the Unending Games

The Thunder of Gaming => Balmuria 6: The Answer => Border City of Balmuria => The Cauldron => Topic started by: Anastasia on November 13, 2018, 03:39:16 PM

Title: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 13, 2018, 03:39:16 PM
Once the three of you are in the Luna Del Stronger, Elle asks, "What happened?"

Lady Honeydip flutters to a display case and sits atop it.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 13, 2018, 03:43:47 PM
"Take us home for the time being," Seira says, getting herself a drink. "He refused to budge on the two slavery clauses and his counter offer was money to get us to go away. It's open war now."

Her fingers tap against Luna Del Stronger's bar as she asks Honeydip, "Would you mind telling me where the Court would stand on this issue?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 13, 2018, 03:59:09 PM
"A glass as well, please," Lady Honeydip asks as Elle gets to work. "I don't know for certain," she admits, "But I know you're a friend of the Court and that matters for a lot. I believe Her Majesty would be willing to hear you on this matter."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 13, 2018, 04:00:43 PM
Seira pours one for Honeydip before refilling her own. "The chance always existed, though I hoped things would go better. Since you were there, give me your honest opinion. Did I cause this? Or was our goal impossible through diplomacy?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 13, 2018, 04:13:02 PM
Lady Honeydip has a long sip of her drink before she smacks her lips, "Strong," she murmurs, putting it down. "I don't know. I got a sense the Grand Sultan felt you asked too much, but asking someone not to be a slaver is hardly a sin. Perhaps he hoped to bowl you over or curry your favor to a palatable agreement."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 13, 2018, 04:16:53 PM
"It was all about slavery. Stopping it, and freeing the slaves. He didn't show willingness to entertain either under any conditions. The opening bid was just that, but he refused to consider any proposed amendments either. If we weren't walking out of there with a road map to abolition, it was always going to be war. Please tell me that's how you saw it, too? It'd be just my luck if I misread his responses."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 13, 2018, 04:20:42 PM
"No, I don't think he was willing to bend there - or couldn't. Lord Barachiel mentioned a coup and I wonder if he feared the same if he folded to your demands." Lady Honeydip says. "The efreet are not kind or are they forgiving, many desire to rule."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 13, 2018, 04:50:37 PM
"In the end, he was another dreary tyrant in a long line of them. Gathering his people to his banner was possible, even if he had to take refuge in audacity." Seira sighs. "All water under the bridge, now. I'll visit the Court and Sylica... Amaryl would probably be best as the one approaching the Seldarine," she murmurs to herself. "The trade initiatives, of course, but those can be left to Sanzha for the time being. Any other obvious allies? Ah, Aurora, can't forget them."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 13, 2018, 04:52:02 PM
"We're back," Elle calls over, "This is going to cascade now, so let's focus on that. More importantly, we're likely looking at the efreet, the devils and the dao at a minimum, before they call on any other allies."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 13, 2018, 05:22:33 PM
"The dao aren't a given, since we've yet to act against them," Seira muses. "Even if they know our plans, quiet intervention on a low level might be preferable to direct warfare. Still, we'll have to prepare for that."

Giving the liquor a longing glance, Seira puts down her glass. "This is what we're going to do. Elle, fill everyone in and then I'll ask you to look in on Balmuria. Suggest to Hellman, Marianne and Lyris that the need for resolving the Da'avid situation has become pressing, and get a clear timetable from them. If it is doable now, see what reason there is for delays."

For her part, Seira will indeed ask Amaryl to approach the Seldarine without delay, and have Donald and Kascha meet with Aurora's leadership to appraise them of the developments on Fire and ask for their involvement if at all possible. This is one case where even if the vampires decide to throw in their lot with the efreet, Fire is hardly an ideal staging ground for them.

"The two of us will make way for the Court at once," she tells Lady Honeydip. "I'll bring my general along, and hopefully we could figure out our next move together."

Assuming agreement, she intends to depart with Lady Honeydip and Valar to the Court of the Stars.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 13, 2018, 05:29:39 PM
"Let us go," Lady Honeydip says.

"One thing," Elle speaks up before you go, "Do you know how fast official declarations of war will take to be issued?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 13, 2018, 05:32:56 PM
"No, though you could check in with Celestia about that and let us know."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 12:57:48 PM
Okay, just one question. What do you want Amaryl to approach the Seldarine about? Joining the war? Advising them that it's happening? Something else? Just want to be clear here.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 01:03:26 PM
Advising them on events, yes, and then inquire about joining the war effort. I'll leave the judgement to her, though I'm interested in at least a token 'show the flag' assistance. It would be better if she secured more, of course.

Same for Donald (and Kascha) with Aurora's leadership. I'm leaving that to the npcs since they're there, since Kascha was one of the officers, and since I was one of the leadership and want to recuse myself from that.

Sanzha receives a reminder that we're on the clock and that it would be supremely helpful if she had results from her mission to the Mercane (it was to see if they're willing to deal on our two requests, try to determine whether they're being on the level, and seeing if she can tell what happened with their apparent coup).

I will issue an 'official' announcement to my allies after the meeting at the Court, or if the Sultan's people show up at the Cauldron to deliver an official declaration of war, whichever comes first.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 01:08:33 PM
Okay, we'll round that up once you return from the Court of Stars. Any prep before you go?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 01:10:19 PM
Queen Morwel, I request an audience at your earliest convenience

With that thought delivered to its destination, Seira transports herself and Lady Honeydip to the Court of the Stars blindly. Should Morwel agree, she will bring the two of them over to her.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 01:17:40 PM
The transport does not happen.


Close your eyes and rest. Close your eyes and dream. Let us meet in the firmament between dream and reality.


You feel a lethargy comes to you, an unfamiliar sensation. How long has it been since you've truly been tired? Decades?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 01:24:29 PM
Seira transports the two of them to a room for visiting dignitaries, surrendering herself to the dream once she's safely in bed.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 01:34:52 PM
Sleep.

Sleep comes like an old friend, a forgotten memory found once more.


Dream.


You drift over a vast plain. The tall grasses of the plains blow in the fall winds, crisp and with the scent of apples and smoke teasing your nose. Beneath that is perhaps the first taste of winter, the promise of snow coming from a gray, overcast sky. A looming threat, the lingering warmth of a fall day quickly fading to a deep, bone chilling cold.


War. Winter.


Ahead lies a country cottage, smoke rising from the chimney, promising warmth within. It is well kept and built, prepared and with its fields tended and livestock within a barn behind it. Here men and women work, putting away the harvest.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 01:47:23 PM
It's a lucid dream, isn't it? Seira read about them extensively, but doesn't get to experience them often.

The accursed Status Quo!

Images of efreet slave camps follow. The same complexes, but those within are always different, for their lives are harsh and short. The information from Aurora's raid on and capture of their ships, the vile device drawing on the life-force of the slaves in their bellies and stealing their very souls upon death.

How are they different?

The next images are those of the Hells. Their own slaves, too, and their victims, but also the way they mistreat each other. The misery and pain and suffering inherent in the very society of the Hells.

Do we need to wait for this to finally act?

Lifasa, every tree upon it burnt except for the one from which dead elves hang, their souls crying for release. Benfal, at the mercy of a devil that overpowers any resistance. Atrocities committed upon their inhabitants and upon the very essence of those Primes, while the heavens, Cauldron included, didn't act.

As diplomacy failed, the answer is war.

A righteous war, a crusade. There is no shortage of examples, and Aurora is only the most recent. They could all come together for that worthy goal, so how is this any different?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 02:08:33 PM
You drift in the dream. You drift into a starry forest, ethereal starlight piercing through the nighttime canopy. Here you see it, a brave hunter following a great silver wolf. As the hunter follows, readying his bow to strike unseen? Your field of view rises up. Following the hunter are dozens of wolves. Some stalk it, others watch. But so many more are there - and you see some wolves stalk other wolves, and are hunted by other hunters. A great web of it, vast and vaster yet.

Yet you zoom back in. Here the hunter fires and wounds the wolf, an arrow going into it - as a wolf pounces from behind in that moment of triumph, hamstringing the brave hunter. He falls to a knee, bleeding as other wolves close in, surrounding the hunter.


Sorrow.


Before you the hunter fights valiantly, but in that moment is vulnerable. He fires another arrow and hits a wolf, but another strike, knocking him down, savaging him, tearing his throat out.

Your view goes out again, expanding. Here you see this happening a hundred million times over, hunters and wolves in a web of warfare.



No war is without pain and without loss. Only in dreams can a war be bloodless and triumphant. Only in dreams can a war be a single war without opportunism, attacks and politics.


The vista changes. Here Queen Morwel kneels before a sea, a sea unlike any other you have seen before. It is a sea of tears, a sea of sorrows and hopes. She kneels and prays silently.



We seek an answer to your question, for in greater conflict is greater chances for loss and sorrow. A brave hunter and a brave champion may yet fall, victims of opportunity. Do not think she will not strike when you are at your lowest, exhausted by the efreet. Nor that any other will not take the chance if they see one to be taken. Nor do not think that others have not planned for this war and seek to turn it to their advantage.

We do not avoid war out of cowardice or weakness. We war carefully, because an errant war threatens to win a battle and lose the greater conflict.

At times the cup raised to our lips is not one of power and might, but of tears and the bitterest sorrows.

Be wary that you do not find yourself supping on a cup of sorrow, Seira.

Evil is a master of sorrow, is it not?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 02:25:01 PM
I understand. Trust me, I do.

Seira spins a different scenario, one where the hunters work together. The wolves strike, often at the hunters and sometimes at one another. But the hunters form a circle, facing out during a concentrated attack. They fight together, in pairs, back-to-back while displaying a level of trust the wolves in the dream are incapable of.

Some do fall, even a pair that ventured too far into the field of battle. But as they do, they look past the attacking predators and towards the cowering prey that fearfully observes the battle.

We can only do our best. I tried diplomacy and subterfuge, but Celestia's actions escalated matters and the Sultan's demands backed me into a corner. The easy option would have been to accept his bribe and token concessions, and keep the status quo. But the cost, Queen Morwel. The cost in those who are too weak to protect themselves.

It was an impossible decision, but at the same time the only one I could even contemplate. It was because I realized the truth, through my arguments to the Sultan. I appealed to his greed, to his ego, even to his fear when the softer approach bore no fruit.

This is a battle of ideas. Shar's loss and sorrow cannot be defeated by war, by fire, by force. We can bring down her servants, yes, and we must use all those and more to defend Creation from her. But true victory lies in defeating the very concepts she stands for.

How can we do that, if we cannot defeat slavery? How can we succeed, if we embrace that concept of slavery as an ally in our fight against loss and sorrow?

Please help. There is no greater battle than for the fate of our souls.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 02:33:36 PM
Queen Morwel looks up. Her face is serene and yet sad, an echo. A moment of sunlight and moonlight wash over you as she speaks. "Celestia desires this war, I do not know why. It is a time where events begin to spiral out of control. As of yet, my prayers are unanswered." Flowering her hands and rising, Queen Morwel extends her hand out to you. "Walk with me, Seira."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 02:37:20 PM
Seira closes the distance, taking the proffered hand.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 02:45:43 PM
In an instant you walk just above the sea of sorrows and hope. Before you there is a gentle rain of light, dots of light. Souls. Souls come here and sink into the ocean, going into the depths and out of sight.

"If you are committed, I will help you." Queen Morwel says. As she speaks, you feel it. Sorrow is added to the pool. Sorrow leeches from the souls, out from them and into the sea. "Once, long ago, I cried this ocean into being. Here the Queen bears the sorrows of her children, so that they may reincarnate free of those pains. I know the pains and sorrows of war better than almost any other in Creation, for so many who come here are scarred by it."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 02:53:04 PM
"I am committed," Seira agrees, shivering. "I'm terrified beyond anything and I'll never be able to show it in public, but I'm all in. I fully believe in this, ethically and logically. We'll save their slaves, free the spirits of the entrapped, prevent future atrocities like that and, with a lot of work and a lot of hope, we'll hopefully manage to save the souls of many efreet. Despite my threats to the Grand Sultan, I don't want to eliminate their empire or people."

She gazes out at the sea of tears, saying, "I need your help. If something in Chronias is driving Celestia towards irrational actions, you will be a balancing influence. If I drift too far, you could show me another way. Militarily, the stronger our forces compared to theirs, the less bloodshed we should see. And we might show our enemies a truly unified front, which is important beyond measure, for they cannot coexist with that idea. Perhaps, with luck, the concept will even take root in some of them."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 03:06:17 PM
A hug. A simple hug, a thing of warmth and support.

"No. I know Zaphkiel. I know not his motives, but he is not irrational. There is meaning to this - frightening meaning perhaps, but there is meaning."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 03:12:47 PM
Seira enjoys the contact, drawing support from it.

"Finding the Answer through any means?" she ventures. "Simply not willing to abide by such actions, not again? And unlike the Hells, the chances of triumph on the Inner Planes are higher."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 03:22:14 PM
"Of the three of us who rule the Heavens, Zaphkiel is the wisest," Queen Morwel mentions, "Whatever his reason for this choice, it works on many levels." Here she adds, "All of our doings are often opaque to one another, but fear not. You will have my aid, champion of Androlynne."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 03:25:45 PM
"Thank you, Queen Morwel."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 03:31:56 PM
"Forces shall arrive at the Cauldron in three days," Queen Morwel declares, "They shall aid you well."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 03:34:43 PM
"Thank you," Seira repeats. "May I retain Lady Honeydip's services for the duration of the campaign?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 03:37:53 PM
"You may, she will command them," Queen Morwel agrees. "Be well, Seira, and awaken."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 03:38:54 PM
Seira gives Morwel another hug, and then wills herself to wake up!
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 03:41:08 PM
You awaken on the bed, Lady Honeydip still snoozing away. You feel rested and restored.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 03:55:28 PM
Invigorated, Seira decides to send a vision to her inner circle. It is only fair they hear the details from her, before the news breaks.

"My friends. As you know, we've been working towards ending slavery upon the Inner Planes. Recently, those efforts escalated due to Celestial raids on efreet interests, and efreet counter-attacks. A peace summit followed, hosted by the Grand Sultan, yet our differences proved irreconcilable. The efreet feel it is a cultural imperative to enslave and demean others, and so it is with a heavy heart that I announce the start of a war between the Cauldron and the Efreet Empire.

"Our allies stand with us, because they understand the importance of the stakes. Even now -- especially now, with Shar looming stronger on the horizon -- we cannot compromise our principles! We cannot compromise on our key values! If the only way to save millions of people from suffering and debasement, to ensure none other share their fate in the future, then we shall fight!

This will go out to all my minor allies and named NPCs based out of the Cauldron, to my family and to my Node.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 04:09:38 PM
The message is sent. A moment later you hear it, Amaryl's voice in your mind. 'And together we will win!'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 04:15:44 PM
'We shall,' Seira agrees. 'Queen Morwel agreed to send aid. I'll contact Sylica, while hoping for a favorable answer from our friends in Arvandor.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 04:27:18 PM
'Good! Let me know.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 04:28:49 PM
Do you have a moment? Seira asks, contacting Antenora.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 04:38:00 PM
Yes. What do you need, Seira?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 04:40:22 PM
To keep you and Sylica in the loop, first of all. I've just returned from a three-way meeting between the Grand Sultan of the Efreet, Barachiel and myself. The recent hostilities over their practices of slavery were the topic, yet we regrettably were unable to make the Sultan see reason. Now, we are at war.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 15, 2018, 04:50:31 PM
I understand. Who is engaged in the war so far?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 15, 2018, 04:55:14 PM
Outside of Celestia and the Cauldron, I've requested Queen Morwel's aid and she granted it. I'm hoping that the more forces we bring to the table, the less eventual bloodshed will occur. It would make me happy if Sylica were to join the effort, though I hope that you would be willing to lend a hand. I failed to reach the Sultan, but perhaps together we might be able to do that with some of the rank and file. Would you consider it, Antenora?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 01:07:26 PM
I would, but I must consult with Alicia and Syala first.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 01:15:27 PM
I wouldn't have it any other way. Please give Syala and Alicia my regards

Alicia has other commitments, but they did discuss the possibility of Antenora striking at a particularly nasty efreet slaver with Seira herself and Oraga, so that part, at least, Seira hopes to still see work out.

For now, she decides to let Lady Honeydip wake up at her leisure. As her avatar watches over her friend, Seira proceeds to a veranda with a great view of the volcano's maw with Valar, and summons Berry Crownsguard and Ranbar of Aryn the same was she had approached Laurenal.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 01:24:12 PM
As in physically summoning them here or opening a gate? Just want to be clear.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 01:26:34 PM
Opening Gates in front of them in clear invitation, same as before.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 01:36:18 PM
It is Berry who is through first, a step behind Ranbar.

"My lady," Berry breathes, as both kneel before you.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 01:46:15 PM
"Please, stand," Seira bids them, looking out at her realm as she leans on the railing. "Berry, Ranbar, I've summoned the two of you here because things are changing about the planes, and the Cauldron is leading that change. Of course, that means that it too has to adjust, to better step into its role in Creation. In short, I would like the two of you to work here with me and help me make it happen."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 01:51:21 PM
"It will be done," Renbar says softly, rising as commanded. "What will you have us do?"

Meanwhile, Berry Crownsguard stands and brushes aside a bit of honey blonde hair. He is wearing a simple shirt and pants, nothing remotely fancy, though a dagger is at his side. "It is an honor! What needs to be done?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 02:09:16 PM
"We're moving in three directions at present," Seira say, nodding at her side. "This is Valar, and he will be leading our forces in battle against the efreet empire as we seek to liberate their slaves and ensure that vile practice stops for good. But we must grow stronger and seize advantage from our location, contacts and portal network. Berry, I want to leave that task to you. The uncertainty with the Mercane after what appears to be an internal coup means that we have a small window of opportunity, and the Cauldron's recent expansion upon Amaryl's ascension was made with just that in mind. If we compare this to a mortal cabinet, I wish for you to be my minister of trade to Valar's field marshal."

She turns towards Ranbar next. "As for you, I wish for you to improve communications between our local agents and the Temple of the Golden Flame. While our faith burns as brightly as ever, the support structure for it is changing as we speak. Already I have commanded my faithful on my world of birth to switch from a nomadic behavior to one where temples, built in my name, will serve the local population by providing free travel and sustenance, as well as greater opportunities for trade, defense and the acquisition of knowledge. Ensuring the process goes as smoothly as possible across the varied Primes will be a lot of work. In the current climate, it would also expose us to greater danger than during peace time, so the high priestess post will be a busy one as well."

Making certain to study both of them, Seira tells them, "Should you accept these tasks, I would expect you to add your own insights. I'm not the micro-managing type, so I will give you all the resources and authority you would need in these new duties. I would only expect to be appraised of any large changes across the board, and in case of problems cropping up that require more than your roles would provide for."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 02:14:10 PM
"I accept," Berry says without hesitation.

"As do I," Ranbar adds quietly, "I will serve as I am needed, my lady."

Valar steps forward, "The come with me, Berry. We have much to cooperate with and coordinate, because trade and finance is a vital part of war."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 02:18:42 PM
"After you learn all you need today, take tomorrow off to merely observe the Cauldron and its workings. I want you to experience our realm before you properly step into your roles."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 02:21:01 PM
"As you will it," Berry agrees as...

Okay, anything else to do with these two here?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 02:23:48 PM
I do want them to acclimate a bit, see if they have any questions and then (individually) approach me with either requests or a preliminary report. Perhaps in a week?

As for what I intend to do next, is there a response from Sanzha re: the Mercane, Donald+Kascha re: Aurora, Amaryl re: the Seldarine or Elle re: Balmuria's God-King ruins?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 02:29:08 PM
Yes. Which do you want to cover first?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 02:29:37 PM
Let's go in order.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 02:35:18 PM
Meeting with Lady Sanzha is simple. She takes a seat and has a sip of tea before she begins, "As you can imagine, the Mercane are being both cagey and now officially taking preemptive pains to be 'neutral' in the coming conflict," she explains. "Nothing official yet, but individual mercane know how this goes."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 02:37:21 PM
"Did we manage to get any information on Yemimah before all hell broke loose? And did you figure out anything about their coup?"

As for 'how this goes', the implication is that they'll sell to everyone under the table while pretending to be neutral?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 03:02:07 PM
Basically.

"A little," Lady Sanzha says, shaking her head, "Implications and hints that she's in Dis, but precious little proof. Nothing surprising there, except one reference to Yemimah the Gray."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 03:03:58 PM
"Meaning?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 03:07:08 PM
"I don't know, but it could be a sign that she's coming to be more steel like, more like the iron Dispater represents," Yemmiah says after a moment's thought. "Also, I suspect I'm being lead around to a degree. It could be just to milk me for money and bribes or it could be misdirection and enemy action. With the mercane, who can say?"

At this Lady Sanzha takes another long sip of her tea, "However, I lean towards it being one of the two scenarios. The first is that the new leadership does not approve of us or myself. Secondly, with a shift in leadership, various mercane could be seeing it as a chance to extract more money while things are in flux. I lean towards the first."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 03:12:23 PM
"Interesting. In that case, we'll be able to tell more soon," Seira voices. "With us following our hearts, so to speak, if they truly favor the other side in this conflict we'll see some proof of that."

It's a shame that there isn't more, but such is life. "On my front, I've been focusing on gathering allies to the banner, and took the liberty to make some of the Cauldron appointments official. Are you interested in the foreign affairs ministry?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 03:18:36 PM
"I will need something to keep me busy besides my research," Lady Sanzha says, "So long as it isn't too time consuming or vital."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 03:21:15 PM
Seira nods. "Then you're the Cauldron's foreign minister. Just find and nominate a secretary to take care of some of the workload and we're all set. I'll introduce you to our new arrivals later-- ah, and actually, how are we doing with the volunteer red dragons? With the war on our doorstep, having some tangible results would go a long way to show the others that we're good at our word, and that might matter given we share Astral."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 03:22:03 PM
"That's another thing to do," Lady Sanzha finishes her tea, "It seems my life is busy again." With the faintest hint of a smile, "Water rarely stays stagnant for long."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 03:23:40 PM
Seira smiles back at her. That's a non-answer, but sometimes reminding her friends of a matter helps put it higher up their priorities, so she can expect a report soon enough. For now, she decides to contact Donald and Kascha in hopes of hearing some good news from their current posting.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 03:26:58 PM
"Well," Donald comes in after Sanzha leaves, his helmet off as he takes a seat, "Aurora's a bit occupied to say the least. Vampires and vampire problems, but they'll make an effort to peel some troops away to help. Their retired archmage Tepen may be willing to do some support magic for us for free, but does not wish to engage in battle, too."

Grinning, "Use your magic to show yourself the battle Ebony and Canderella ran out from the baths to help win, stark naked. You should hear the songs about it!"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 03:31:33 PM
"The efreet already think they are involved, and we can't exactly do anything about that with Duke Moore right in the middle of things. We might as well make it official, while understanding it's not their main focus. And should the efreet break themselves on Medi's impregnable fortress in their misguided beliefs, all the better."

Peering at Donald, she asks, "Are you done with your Aurora adventure, or planning on returning for some glorious battles after this report?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 03:33:38 PM
"I'm done. You need me here," Donald shakes his head, "Someone has to bail you out." He smiles at that, "Good thing I'm here, so I got it in hand."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 03:36:31 PM
"Bah, you could do it from there!" Seira scoffs, making shooing gestures at him. "Say, how did it go with the Guardian of 21? Was Kascha able to get some nice insights, at least?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 03:47:09 PM
"Nothing too helpful," Donald says, "Mostly digressions, it seems to follow Kascha's mental flow."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 03:50:20 PM
"It would've been too much to get some good news, yes," Seira agrees with a snort. "Listen, until hostilities begin I'd like you to consider adopting an innovation from Aurora. The Mission Arch, was it? I've toyed with ideas for one during peace time, to help our people live better lives. But you'd be able to look at it from a soldier's side, and hopefully without the blind spots someone who has as much magic as I would have. I'll count on you."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 04:08:16 PM
Donald nods, "I'll get it done," he says, "Easy as can be."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 04:09:35 PM
Elle's report is next! Incidentally, did Kascha also return? No advancement on the Calley notes at all, or just a small one?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 04:16:58 PM
Kascha is still there on that.

"The elves are seeing to the situation now," Amaryl says, "They aren't moving yet, they're going to get a complete picture before taking action. The Elf Father expressed his good wishes to both of us and that more contact will be made once they finish that. Informally, the elves have to talk to Celestia and Queen Morwel. Expect something but not today. We'll get a state visit from one of the Seldarine soon."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 04:18:36 PM
"Not what I expected, but better than I feared," Seira admits. "Let's see Elle together? Once we hear from her, we could reassess."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 04:23:32 PM
A nod to that and from there it's Elle.

"Yes?" she asks once she's seated, "I did talk to them, they're working on it."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 04:25:32 PM
"Did they progress past our original stopping point, or open more seals?" Seira inquires. "Do they possess all the Resorts? Success there should allow us to chase Shar off that Prime entirely, and boost our cause."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 04:31:23 PM
"They're gathering them and getting them all ready. We did a lot of the work," Elle says, "They have to prepare and finish it."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 04:32:46 PM
"Do they have an estimate?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 04:37:32 PM
"As long as it takes. Oberuth's exact words were that he wasn't going to ruin this with haste," Elle says. "Too much is hanging to possibly lose everything here because we went off half cocked."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 16, 2018, 04:41:07 PM
"I get where he's coming from, but don't forget that our most memorable successes there came as we were put with our backs to the wall. Remember Kondrux?" Still, it's Oberuth's choice. If he prefers to fend off the specter of Shar and the fiends while ensuring the God-King battle takes place on conditions of his choosing, Seira won't press any further.

"In any case, we should now focus on the future. The elemental powers should be contact with haste, and the same for Lathander," she states. "I'm also going to try and reach Lord Io with magic, since I don't want to delay that any further. Are there other possible allies we could reach out for, in your opinions?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 16, 2018, 04:42:54 PM
Okay, let me pause you here for now since session time + needing that realm stuff sorted.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 20, 2018, 03:53:30 PM
As you sit there, you read the scrolls.

An official declaration of war from the efreet, joined by several subservient tribes of azer, fire elementals, fire giants and other various lackeys of the efreet.

An official declaration of war from the dao, joined by several of the same for their minions.

No word from Baator quite yet, perhaps thankfully.

"Ma'am," Vayley steps in, "A githyanki agent of Queen Vlaakith is here, requesting an audience."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 20, 2018, 03:57:25 PM
"Please have them sent to the throne room," Seira tells Vayley, and after thanking her maid for her efforts Seira transports herself to the rarely-used chamber.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 20, 2018, 03:59:35 PM
Goa head and describe it? I don't think it's been used much if at all, so feel free to set the tone for your seat of power.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 20, 2018, 04:22:35 PM
Seira's official seat of power is designed to project exactly the wrong image about her, though one that people might see as plausible given she's offered bribes now and then. It is opulence, decorated so lavishly it is just barely within the realm of tasteful, and designed to project wealth and power as expected of a young and brash dragon.

Her throne, too, is designed for appearance although Seira had ensured that it would be comfortable to sit in for the short periods of time she uses the massive chamber.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 20, 2018, 04:41:51 PM
The githyanki that enters is yellow as any of them, clad in a rich purple cloak and plate armor. He kneels, "I am Ambassador Xa'dani." he introduces himself, hair a plain brown and tied back. After that momentary kneel he rises back up, "The Lich Queen sends her regards, as well as a question on what is going on between the Cauldron the efreet of Fire. She would find your words on this affair most pleasing, Dragon Princess."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 20, 2018, 04:46:11 PM
"Regrettably, we are now at war," Seira responds. "Has the Lich Queen indicated any interest in taking part in this conflict?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 20, 2018, 04:48:04 PM
"At this time the Lich Queen has not expressed such sentiment to me," Xa'dani replies, spreading his hands out. "She also hungers for your words on why this war has come to pass."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 20, 2018, 04:50:46 PM
"You are aware, of course, of how the efreet raid the various Primes for slaves?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 20, 2018, 05:05:38 PM
"I am," The ambassador says, not missing a beat.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 20, 2018, 05:12:10 PM
"I was trying to work through diplomatic channels to change that, while Celestia sent skirmishers to deal with that issue outright. The efreet, shamed by their failures to do anything about those skirmishers, demanded that we and our allies formally acknowledge the practice of slavery by the Efreet Empire and allow it to exist indefinitely." Seira scoffs. "They refused to so much as consider any path towards reducing their reliance on enslaved sentients, the Grand Sultan calling it a matter of pride and history for them. Since we weren't willing to go even farther than the pre-existing status quo and formally accede to their demands, negotiations broke down."

Seira pauses, before adding, "It would please me if you tell Queen Vlaakith that I tried every avenue of negotiations I could think of, and received not a shred of willingness to meet somewhere midway. That said, as the efreet brought the matter to open war, it is a war I intend to win."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 01:13:36 PM
"I will ensure that the Queen understands and hears your words," the diplomat agrees, face pinched-looking, yellow-sallow and unpleasant. "Is there anything else you wish to inform the Lich Queen of?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 01:19:49 PM
"I understand that the conflict is not one the Lich Queen would naturally find herself drawn to, nor am I asking her to fight my battles for me," Seira responds. "At the same time, we have worked together in the past to ensure Astral's independence, most recently in that incursion from Acheron before the dimensional tear was successfully fixed. I believe it is in our best interest to keep foreign powers from establishing footholds upon Astral, given the inevitable escalation by all those who have kept their distance thus far."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 01:23:46 PM
"I will ensure that your words are heard before the Queen," The diplomat says and bows, "Thank you for your time, Dragon Princess. May your war be victorious and glorious."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 01:26:34 PM
"Thank you," Seira tells the ambassador, "and please deliver my regards to the Lich Queen."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 01:42:12 PM
Anything else to add here, then?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 01:42:54 PM
No. Is there anything else awaiting me?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 01:55:03 PM
At the moment no, you have a chacne to react.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 01:58:48 PM
Hi, Lathander, Seira contacts one of her most favorite deities once she's alone. I thought it a good idea to contact you in person, given recent events. You've already heard about our war with efreet over slavery, I assume? So far, the devils are making the pretense of staying out of it, thought the efreets' subjugated races and dao allies are all in.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 02:02:59 PM
Lathander is heard as if right next to you.

"I heard. What a good idea!" Lathander says, voice energetic.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 02:07:58 PM
It's taken me places I didn't want to go, but in the end if they want to die to protect their time-honored traditions of trampling on the dignity of another person for their own sick amusement, such is life. I'm still hoping enough of them realize their mistake while there still is enough efreet to have an empire. And so, I decided to see where you stand on this. Celestia is obviously in, and the Court of the Stars supports my efforts. I suspect the Seldarine and Sylica will offer support as well, just as would my allies across the Inner Planes, and the Aurora cannot really stay out of the conflict since the efreet got it into their heads that they're one of their antagonists.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 02:20:57 PM
"I'm talking to Sealtiel about it - or well, I'm talking to him and he's listening a lot." Lathander laughs, "You know him, all stern looks and patient listening. Yes yes, I'll know soon but not yet."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 02:31:12 PM
If there's anything you're interested in doing in the now, and without getting Kossuth all grumpy with you, would you consider buffing my defenses on the home front? If Shar doesn't think she can make a play for the Cauldron with all those light-wielding clerics, I can strike deeper into the efreet camp.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 02:33:16 PM
"Hmmm...." Lathander makes a noise, as if deeply considering it. "Spiting Shar, you say?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 02:35:20 PM
If she doesn't try anything, I'll lose all of my nonexistent respect for her! She's such a hard worker, and me sending most of my army to free the largest slave camps will leave the Cauldron relatively defenseless, so it has to be a golden opportunity for her. Darkened opportunity? You know what I mean.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 02:48:21 PM
A laugh follows, then, "I do. I think I have some forces that are due military exercises in the Astral Plane."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 02:51:04 PM
I'd actually prefer if we were overt about it, Seira muses. I've contacted Vlaakith about denying the efreet or devils a foothold in Astral, so she might think I tried to trick her if you have people who just so happen to wander Astral. What goes on about my realm, however, is my business.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 03:03:06 PM
"In that case, let me talk to Chauntea about it, she has ideas and opinions about this," she says, "She's rather cross with Shar lately."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 03:03:55 PM
Alright! Let me know!

And then Seira decides to actually take care of her elemental allies and entrusts Sanzha with contacting Zaaman Rul and the others to coordinate their participation in this war, should they choose to act. Entemoch and Sunnis in particular could achieve a great deal, given the dao threw their lot in with the efreet.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 03:20:31 PM
So Sanzha goes and does all the diplo there, basically?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 03:21:29 PM
I asked her if she wanted to be our foreign minister, she said yes! So yes, she's contacting the elemental princes and princesses of goodness~
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 03:40:12 PM
As you see to that?

Be warned: The efreet are attacking Lunia. The Cauldron may be next.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 03:49:33 PM
Will do, thank you for the warning

Seira leaves her avatar at the Temple of the Golden Flame as her reserves, and then invites Amaryl, Donald, Elle and Honeydip with her to the entrance. Celestia should be able to weather any half-assed invasion, and if they actually struggle they will call on her and she will come to their aid.

A few things I'd like to sort out. First, have we started out own actions against the efreet? Ie, is Valar hitting them somewhere already, or he and his army are still home?

When the realm was upgraded on Amaryl's ascension, the Cauldron was made with only a single direct entrance at the top of the volcano (the official one), and due to folded space and demiplane bullshit there's no tunneling through walls or teleporting in.

The portals to it are from reasonably secure spots (usually a temple to Seira or to Waukeen or an embassy). I can't recall if I stated it outright, but the intent was that those who wish me harm cannot use the portals (barring a ridiculously high epic Moore level 'pretend to be my friend' bluff on the system). If this is actually impossible and we had a communication short, I'll have the portal travel monitored at a minimum, and shut down if there's a threat that one might be overrun by a would-be invading army. I'd appreciate confirmation of which is in play.

We actually do have stated strategies in place that handle an attempted invastion, including hidden weapons storage rooms and one-way portals from the barracks to the top of the volcano. I presume Na'lith will know and use all that for the regular troops, being in charge of defense.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 04:07:38 PM
That all sounds in line, barring someone forcing their way. If someone can do that (say an invading power or deity) that's on another level, but all of that sounds in order.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 04:09:59 PM
Valar and the army are prepping and preparing.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 04:12:26 PM
Seira takes care to prepare her companions with the usual pre-combat spells, while her avatar does likewise in preparation as it waits next to her high priestess.

"Just as a note," she tells Amaryl and the others. "If a regular army attacks us, let me head out there first and strike. You really wouldn't want to be int he radius of my spells for that, so support me once I give the signal that I'm done with that." Peering out at the Silver Sea, she muses, "Of course, that suggests we'll get some visitors, which is hardly certain. Let's give it an hour or two?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 04:30:14 PM
"Let's," Amaryl says, taking a breath, "This is all first strikes, isn't it? Trying to hit hard enough to end the war right away."

"The first attacker risks much," Donald says, "Swing and a hit can end a war before it gets going. Swing and a miss and you can lose much and be set on the back foot."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 04:33:34 PM
"They're already hitting Celestia, which is a bad first move. Bold, but terrible. Still, it's honestly not like we had something hugely important to do in the near future!"

I intend to give it two hours. If no attack comes nor any request for aid comes from Celestia (or my other allies), I'll check whether Valar's preparations were finalized and wish him luck. Then, my avatar will take our place close to the main entrance and we'll return to our daily lives.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 21, 2018, 04:50:19 PM
Gimme a d100.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 21, 2018, 04:51:30 PM
22:51 <CC> roll 1d100
22:51 <Rei-chan> CC rolled : 1d100 --> [ 1d100=58 ]{58}
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 12:48:23 PM
An hour in. It is then that a single messenger comes - Ambassador Xa'dani returns. He is escorted to you and bows, "Dragon Princess, I come bearing a proclamation from the Lich Queen. It is to be spread to all participants in this war."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 12:51:09 PM
"I will hear it," Seira tells the ambassador, nodding at him to proceed.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 01:22:47 PM
A scroll is produced and handed to you. It reads as follows.

To all it may concern:

The Githyanki have no stake in the this current war. However, as Queen of the Githyanki, I shall establish the following rules to protect Us from this conflict.

1. All Githyanki traders, travelers, diplomats, including servants to them, shall not be detained, attacked or drawn into the hostilities. As neutral parties, any effort to draw citizens and servants of the Githyanki into this war will be seen as an act of war, and may result in penalty up to and including a declaration of war.
2. The property of all Githyanki shall be respected and unhindered. Should Githyanki property be unavoidably damaged or destroyed, compensation shall be provided at terms established by the Lich Queen. A failure to abide by this term will be seen as an act of war, and may result in penalty up to and including a declaration of war.
3. The Astral Plane shall remain free of hostile forces within any area of Githyanki dominance and control. We will see any infringement of this as an act of war, and may result in penalty up to and including a declaration of war.
4. The right of the Githyanki to trade, enjoy diplomatic relations and the other aspects of normal relations with all parties of this conflict shall not be impinged or hindered by other parties. A failure to do so will be seen as an act of war, and may result in a penalty up to and including a declaration of war.  This includes efforts from any side to discourage trade to the warring parties or other parties who trade with a warring party, or any other pressure deemed coercive and towards war aims by one the parties at war or a party working on behalf of a party at war.
5. We have a right to relations free of deception. Any effort at 'false flag' operations to manipulate the Githyanki into a position of war shall be seen as an act of war, with a penalty up to and including a declaration of war.
6. The Githyanki reserve the right to establish based across the Astral Plane, and this right shall not be impinged by other parties. Failure to abide by this declaration shall be seen as an act of war, and may result in penalty up to and including a declaration of war.

This note shall be sent to all parties involved in this war.

Vlaakith, Lich Queen, Queen of the Githyanki, Keeper of the Gith and Sovereign of the Silver Sea.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 01:27:32 PM
"Ambassador Xa'dani," Seira says, having perused the document. "I seek clarifications regarding the fourth clause. As the practice of slavery is at the core of the conflict, it is only natural that trade of slaves will be strongly discouraged by any neutral parties. It will affect all equally, and be limited in scope to this very matter alone. Has the Lich Queen brought you into her confidence so that you could clarify whether her intent clashes with mine?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 01:33:52 PM
The Ambassador nods his head to that point, "First it must be understood that Her Majesty has no great love of slavers. However, the business of the Githyanki is the business of the Githyanki. We will not be pressured by any party in this war, regardless of what we may or may not trade."

Amaryl taps the document, a slight flexing of divine will felt. Ah, a simple variant of Scholar's Touch. "You wish to remind us the Gith are sovereign and will not be pressured in this war?"

"Precisely, Your Majesty," The Ambassador says, "We take no position on this war at this time. This is a reminder of our rights and how we will defend them - vigorously if needs must."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 01:40:11 PM
"We have not had problems with our Githyanki neighbours in our admittedly short history, by planar standards. I have no intention of that changing. In fact, regardless of the war, should you require aid against a common enemy such as Shar, we shall be at your disposal, no strings attached."

She takes a few moments to think. "To return to the Lich Queen's statement of intent, the clause in question does worry me. What would happen were the efreet slavers decide it is a loophole to exploit, and attempt to use the services of Githyanki traders for their so-called wares? As someone who is fighting to free every last sentient in their grasp, I would be left with a dilemma."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 01:57:13 PM
"In that case," The Ambassador says, "You are free to contact us and any situations will be addressed."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 02:02:35 PM
Seira nods slowly to herself. "Yes, that is acceptable," she muses. "And you may also relay to Queen Vlaakith that the Cauldron does not run false flag operations against allied or neutral parties."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 02:10:40 PM
"Of course," The Ambassador says, "But such things have been known to happen - so Queen Vlaakith wishes her intent to be clear there, to all parties engaged in this war."

"So if someone does it she doesn't have to justify it and can just point to that," Donald speaks up, "Does it happen often?"

"Not in recent times, but often sides will claim it if they are caught doing something they should not be," Xa'dani shakes his head, "It is often the last resort of those caught red handed."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 02:14:26 PM
"When your reputation is one of your most precious commodities, you never put it in a position to be lost as collateral for some wild scheme," Seira muses. "I suppose we are in overall agreement, then? Ah, and once the immediate issues have been resolved, I would be happy to discuss the expansion of our trade with the Gith, if the Lich Queen is amenable to such."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 02:25:03 PM
"I will ensure that reaches her ears," The Ambassador promises.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 02:27:07 PM
Seira nods. She'll have to see how this goes, but the Gith's stance favors her more than the efreet, so that's a diplomatic win.

If Valar hasn't left yet, I'll tell him to head out. Is anyone else coming to me, like Kascha from her studies at Aurora's library or one of my Inner Planes friends having issues with Sanzha's request to join the war on our side?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 02:34:17 PM
You see Valar off. As you do, Elle walks up besides you as you watch them go. "Seira," she says, "A creature of Mineral is here, speaking on behalf of Crystalle."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 02:35:15 PM
"Let's have a chat," Seira says, taking this new development in stride.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 02:44:45 PM
The creature is a figure of gems and gold, looming tall. Taller than two Hanna's stacked atop each other, watching you with no expression. An elemental to be sure, they aren't usually long on things like strong emotions, anyway.

"Lord Crystalle will not join this war," Is the announcement, "But he inquires if you need money to fund this war."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 02:48:14 PM
The only reason to refuse that offer is pride, and Seira's pride takes a step back to her principles. "I would be grateful for any such aid," she responds.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 03:00:23 PM
"Then you will have it. How much do you need?" The elemental says.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 03:23:58 PM
"I'm thinking of two things to better fight this war. The first... I want to outfit my army with anti-efreet weapons, forged with the Cauldron's proprietary technique," Seira responds. "We do have excellent smiths and, obviously, Cauldron Steel as the source material of choice, but the quantity of weapons needed can only be crafted with your funding. Would that be possible?" Pausing briefly to gather her thoughts, Seira continues. "The second thing is a mission arch, inspired by our friends at Aurora. An Elemental Harmony weapon could be made relatively cheaply, yet be made to strike at the efreet with maximum effectiveness with a few simple spells. They just need to be properly extended, and be available to so many it is impractical to do this manually."

I'm asking whether we can have Elemental Harmony weapons (effective +3) or Elemental Harmony Fire Outsider Bane weapons (effective +5) made of Cauldron Steel for our regular dudes, and a mission arch the primary function of which would be providing time-extended applications of Flaming/Frost/Shock/Acid/any other elemental source I forgot. Ideally, it'd mean they could hit for a lot of damage the efreet are weak at, and count as epic weapons from GMW giving +5 and Bane putting it into the +7 range.

If it's workable, I'm interested in seeing whether my named NPCs and myself could have weapon upgrades as well to include Fire Outsider Bane or Holy or something. Depends on how much they would like to help us out.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 03:28:29 PM
Go ahead and give me rough price ranges here?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 03:35:42 PM
I have no idea how many dudes we actually have, remember?  :)
Also you never did sign off on the mission archs, it's one of the posts awaiting a proper answer, so I didn't want to presume.

Rough figures:
Crafting cost of 260,000,000gp for +5 equivalent Cauldron Steel weapons (+1 Elemental Harmony Fire Outsider Bane) for 10,000 soldiers.
Crafting cost of 90,000,000gp for +3 equivalent regular weapons (+1 Fire Outsider Bane) for 10,000 soldiers.

Crafting costs of probably no more 500,000gp for a mission arch?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 03:47:09 PM
I mean per intended item, Cor.

"Money can be provided," The elemental says, "The arch...Aurora's arch?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 03:52:19 PM
"Not an exact copy, since that's in bad taste and ill-suiting for our campaign. But a similar concept. Greater Magic Weapon alongside various elemental powers for the Elemental Harmony to channel productively and better durations on the latter. Possibly fire resistance as well. I also haven't studied their exact design, but an aura or emanation would probably work better than having to touch it. Unless it was triggered by passing underneath it? Because that's quite elegant in its simplicity." Seira shakes her head. "To be clear, I'm not trying to add things I've been contemplating as internal improvements. I'm focusing solely on the war effort with that request."

In that case, pretty much 26,000gp and 9,000gp crafting costs, depending on how much they want to provide.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 03:57:40 PM
"Funds will be provided to help," The elemental agrees.

This will be handled and noted. Go ahead and have a note that your forces are getting some improved weapons - not 200 million gold worth, there's limits here - but enough to help augment the right troops with the right weapons. This'll give you an extra tick upward in combat ability. As for the node, expect a loot post momentarily.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 04:00:37 PM
"You and Lord Crystalle have my gratitude. I won't forget."

Nice! Is there enough to upgrade our own epic weapons with efreet-bane, too? Like for Dragon's Grace, Cauldron's Blast or Guardianil?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 26, 2018, 04:21:47 PM
What exactly do you mean by efreet bane?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 26, 2018, 04:22:48 PM
Fire Outsider Bane, which is what you told me would ping all efreet.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 12:59:55 PM
There's nothing RAW that says you couldn't take the money from them, but that said, I'd rather improve those manner of things through the nodes and other such things.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 01:01:35 PM
I've yet to have anything of mine upgraded via Node or even show up as an option, though a fair point on NPCs if you like that. What about the minor allies, though? Can I ensure my named people not in the Node have war-suitable weapons?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 01:12:46 PM
You mean like Na'lith, Gulpan and so on? Yeah, that's fine. Correct me if I'm wrong about the sort you mean.

As funds are sorted out, Amaryl comes into the room as you oversee the math and transfer of money.

"We have a message from the marid," she says, passing you the letter. "It's addressed to you and enchanted to only be opened by you."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 01:14:11 PM
"Huh," Seira voices, breaking the seal on the scroll. "Our friends really should consider us equals in representing the Cauldron."

Still, she takes a glance!
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 01:29:26 PM
"They should," Amaryl echos, "I'm not blaming them because my full ascension is still so new."

It reads as follows:

The Padisha cordially invites you to tea to discuss ongoing events concerning the Elemental Planes.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 01:31:13 PM
"It's an invitation from the Padisha," Seira tells Amaryl. "Let's stop by her palace together?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 01:33:41 PM
"Oh!" Amaryl's face lights up at that, "I presume she wants to talk about the war?" Getting up, she...

Anything to say or any prep before going, in that case, assuming you're going now?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 01:35:58 PM
Let's go! My avatar will keep the Cauldron safe. Standard travel spells listed as my combat loadout (minus the epic ones).
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 01:43:31 PM
It is a quick, professional escort to where the Padisha is. She sits in an open air room, an island that rises sharply up amid a fast, churning sea of free floating ice. Yet it's tolerably warm atop the peak where she sits, a single table for four here. She sits alone, taking in the movements of the ice below, watching one hunk crash into another.

Your escort bows without a word and slips away, the Padisha turning to the two of you. "So," she begins, "You've been busy."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 01:44:41 PM
"That's a good way of putting it," Seira agrees, smiling at her. "Thank you for your kind words."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 02:03:26 PM
"An idle leaf only falls to the ground," Amaryl agrees, staying at your side.

The Padisha hms at that, "That's from the Praise Poems of the Fellowship?"

Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 02:08:10 PM
"Quite so," Seira responds, letting Amaryl field that question more in depth. While her own classical education has always been quite extensive, Seira can't quite muster the same passion for poetry that Amaryl does.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 02:16:59 PM
"One of the free form poems attributed to the Elf Father," Amaryl brightens at that, "A leaf must wait until is time to fall, yet an idle leaf only falls to the ground. It means that we must act wisely and with patience, but decisively when the time is right, lest we waste our chance."

"Time, time, time," The Padisha waves a hand, a stream of water rising up from below, flowing in a tall, long arch. "Water does not wait unless it must, but it moves with purpose, even a long purpose."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 02:20:49 PM
"Sometimes, we just want to act," Seira muses. "It's nice when certain things fall in line and make it easier to do what we feel is right, but perhaps at the core is a desire. A strong desire that moves everything, even if unsettles the present order."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 02:35:00 PM
"Unsettled in the right word," The Padisha turns, "What has given rise to this particular war? Away from the tiresome propaganda and arguing of the sides."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 02:45:47 PM
"We were all born to be free. It is neither propaganda nor wishful thinking. Yes, our starting positions in life as well as our natural talent were spread unequally. I wouldn't say something silly like how everyone has an equal probability to accomplish the same task if they try their hand at it. But we have a basic dignity to us that cannot be taken away, not by fiends and not by efreet and their allies. We are not property. Furthermore, it is deeply offensive to us on a personal level when we see people treated as property. We might avert our eyes, or try to rationalize it, but in the end it unsettles us deep down because if we search within ourselves, there is no fundamental difference. We can't delude ourselves that the slavers would treat us differently if only they had the chance, if only they triumphed and caught us at a moment of weakness. Still, we find reasons to stay our hand, to keep the status quo, sometimes at almost any cost."

Seira pauses, studying the flow of ice for a long moment. "The Grand Sultan changed my mind. As we sat there, and he had the audacity to demand I officially sanction their depravity and then tried to bribe me with money to make this problem go away... I got to thinking. Why am I clinging to the status quo? I want to act, everything that makes me who and what I am is telling me to act. So who is stopping me? Certainly not that small man, caught in the shadow of a far greater being and posturing to keep his political power. Thus, we are at war, as far as the Cauldron is concerned. I wouldn't presume to speak on Celestia's behalf."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 03:02:04 PM
"Aaaaaah," The Padisha says slowly, as the arch of water flows faster, grows wider. "So you seek to make a tsunami to sweep away the old and bring in the new. You can no longer stand by."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 03:07:17 PM
"I will be the best friend anyone can ask, and a stalwart ally. But to my enemies, I no longer intend to give a quarter. Too many terrible deals have been made, and continue to be made because there are always greater threats, and always some common interest along those lines. Would we have an easier time opposing Shar with Celestia and the Hells working together? Perhaps, militarily. But Hell's way is to subjugate entire Primes towards that goal, and that's a price too high to pay. What meaning is there in defeating Shar's nihilism, if we crush it with Hell's tyranny? In our battlefield of ideas, what good is it to burn oblivion with ingrained, institutionalized slavery? I don't believe we truly can, not like that."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 03:16:33 PM
"So to war we go," The Padisha says, "I have heard the dao joined the efreet in this war. I have not heard of the djinn, but they will find your cause an agreeable one. A war between the genies, the quasi and para branches will be sucked in as well."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 03:21:17 PM
"It seems likely. And the efreet will learn that their subservient races may not be as all-in as they themselves are. Their very cultural attitudes ensure that the way the efreet treat those they deem weaker or subservient will be remembered, and paid back at the right moment."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 03:26:28 PM
"It will spread," Amaryl says, "It can't be stopped now."

To this the Padisha waves her hand, the arch of water falling apart. "The archomentals of good and evil will involve themselves. They can't resist such a chance."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 03:29:31 PM
"It shouldn't come as a surprise that I've asked for the help of the princes and princesses of good," Seira confirms. "As for the others... Imix is likely to be involved, and possibly Ogremoch, but I don't expect them to leave their respective planes. As for the others... we shall see."

And that's a good thing to be reminded of. Talking to Yan-C-Bin might well avoid his entry into the war, and perhaps even Ogremoch would choose equal-opportunity greed over some principled opposition to their forces.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 03:47:18 PM
"In turn, other forces will come," The Padisha says, "My people's blood will turn the currents of Water red." She looks to you now, "Can you endure the funerals for the lost as sweetly as the cheers of victory? I have seen war before, in person and in memory. There is always such suffering, no matter how high the ideal."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 03:58:13 PM
"I've served in wars, myself." In fact, a very real part of Seira is War. "Even now, I wonder whether a diplomatic solution existed. Still, I've also felt the souls of my followers as they fought bravely and gave their lives for something they believed in. So even though it's hard, I can support them, for they are placing themselves in danger so that innocents, be they those enslaved by the efreet or their would-be targets, would be shielded by their heroic efforts."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 04:04:37 PM
"There have been wars I could have joined," The Padisha continues after that, seeming to accept your answer.

"The price was too high for you?" Amaryl asks, "Too many dead and lost?"

"Too many," The Padisha agrees, "You think that we would have settled our intractable family differences ages ago. Yet none of us can bear what we would lose to have a chance to triumph." Below, the water level rapidly begins to descend, soon nothing but a thin inch of water on the ground, hunks of ice lying about. "I hate the efreet and what they do. I love my people and wish to see them prosper." Here she looks on, "So often I weigh how much blood will be spilled, how many will be forced to reform here or be destroyed forever, or suffer a fate worse than death."

The Padisha looks to you, "You can look on at your followers, knowing some will be captured. If they are lucky, the are immersed in the Styx and sold as Blood War slaves. If they are not lucky, it bears not speaking of." Her expression is sad, sorrowful. "You are War, so surely you understand this?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 04:12:46 PM
"I'm taking a chance that we'll succeed in establishing a better Creation, and I'm gambling everything on my belief that people want to be free," Seira responds, looking back at the Padisha. "I understand perfectly what you're implying, and I don't need to be War to see the depravities that exist in Creation right now. Luck alone is the reason I am here now, and not one of those whose fate bears not speaking of. I am only asking of my followers to risk what I would risk myself alongside them. As for those unlucky, we won't rest until they too have been rescued and delivered their rest. And by the end of it? Not only will we live in a better world, but the very rules of the games will be forced to change. Some things would be so beyond the pale, that our enemies will think twice before crossing that line."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 04:26:43 PM
"It will hurt. I know I will be hurt, that I'll cry, that I'll lament," Amaryl adds to that, gaze cast down. "But a battle worth fighting is worth fighting."

To this the Padisha looks on at you both long, expression unreadable. "And what role does Sanzha have in this affair?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 04:32:41 PM
"She's reaching out to the elemental princess and princesses of Good on behalf of the Cauldron," Seira responds, seeing no reason to conceal this. "Our realm might be lead by Amaryl and I at present, but I hope to have her ascend alongside us. If we're making a big tsunami, might as well form a pantheon while we're at it?"

And this should also state that Sanzha is quite happy to be a part of the Cauldron rather than seek a return to Water without actually saying it in so many words.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 27, 2018, 04:54:36 PM
To this the Padisha turns back to the waters. They begin to rise once more, refilling themselves from nowhere.

"Then," The Padisha considers, "How will the victors be rewarded?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 27, 2018, 05:14:23 PM
"Aside from the obvious gains on the battlefield," Seira responds, "as I've said, this is a battle of ideas as much as arms. I don't subscribe to the belief that Good and Evil must remain in balance on the Inner Planes, so we shall strive to defeat their beliefs with our own. My vision has a greater cooperation and trade, where each of us has a place to shine and nurture our people while being able to rely on the support of the others. Attitudes will shift, slowly but surely. Instead of cautious negotiations for mutual defense pacts against common enemies, such offers of assistance in a crisis will become natural. Such things might sound fanciful right now, but wasn't the cause we're fighting for in the same place mere decades ago?"

Observing the Padisha, she admits, "Being focused on the goal as I am, I can only speak in general terms. Did you have something more specific in mind?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 12:47:52 PM
A pause here, the Padisha smiling slightly. "Ambitious. You've never stopped grasping for whatever you can, and damn anything that tries to stop you. I like that."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 12:51:57 PM
Seira returns that smile. It's precisely because other people want those very same things that she can succeed, if only she's bold enough to get them to go out on a limb along with her and reach for them.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 01:07:26 PM
"Others will no doubt council you to relent, because of Shar. To the Abyss with Shar," The Padisha says, a dismissive sneer, "But I will not be dismissive of the oceans of blood that shall be spilled in this war. I have little use for celestial morals and handwringing, but I will not waste the blood of my people lightly. A single marid life is worth a thousand of the sparks they call efreet, to speak nothing of the piteous devils that cooperate with them."

"Will it matter if Olhydra joins the war, or if Ben-Hadar chooses to crusade against the efreet?" Amaryl speaks up, "Neutrality like that means little if others open the door instead."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 01:11:58 PM
Curious about that point as well, Seira waits on the Padisha's answer to Amaryl's question.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 01:21:52 PM
A mere nod of her head to that, a silent concession. "What of Ben-Hadar and Olhydra, indeed? I've heard Sanzha has been there recently."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 01:25:27 PM
"Ideally, Ben-Hadar would come to our aid while Olhydra will choose to sit this one out, but I'm still waiting on Sanzha's return. Still, there are ways to participate without fully committing to strikes in efreet territory," Seira points out. "For example, the more troops I must station at the Cauldron as both defense and deterrence, the fewer I can send out to trash the efreet slave camps."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 01:47:49 PM
"I propose another matter," The Padisha says, "Water stays out of this war in entirety." A snap of her fingers, "Ben-Hadar and Olhydra focus on matters of good and evil in Water, while you wage your war without it spilling into this plane. You gain little but the efreet and dao gain little, too."

At this Amaryl frowns, "So when it is over, Water stands untouched and strong over Fire, no matter if it wins or loses?"

"So that my people do not die in a war of other's making," The Padisha says, a sharpness to her voice, "Have your war with Celestia against the efreet and dao. Rely on us to be a river that cuts off the spread of this war, to help it from spiraling out of control."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 01:54:47 PM
"What if you could get the dao to stay out of the conflict as well?" Seira makes her counter proposal. "There has been no direct conflict of yet, and their own behavior towards the xorn feels somewhat different than the efreet habits. Celestia and the Cauldron offered generous terms to the Grand Sultan. Should the dao decide on a course change to abstain from enslaving others and free their existing slaves, they will receive lavish recompense and favorable terms."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 02:18:12 PM
"It won't happen, the dao won't be pushed around by a foreign power unless you have them prostrate," The Padisha says,  "Our thrones are not the eternal steel you sit on, Seira. We Padisha, we Sultans sit on thrones that are not meant to be held forever. We are vulnerable to politics, vulnerable to being overthrown if we go too far."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 02:22:10 PM
"I realize that. I merely hoped that if you had leverage on Olhydra and Ben-Hadar both, you might also have influence on Earth. It's one thing to offer a deal and be rejected by the efreet, but the dao going through with this as a formality bothers me."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 02:41:20 PM
"Not enough to force that. I'm not sure there's any that would be enough," The Padisha shakes her head.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 02:43:10 PM
"I understand," Seira says, nodding at her. "In any case, I will need to consider your words carefully before committing one way or the other."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 02:53:10 PM
"Take the time that you need," The Padisha says, "Ben Hadar will delay any decision for three days, as I have requested it of him. Nor will Olhydra join any war for three days, nor shall I."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 02:56:59 PM
"You have my thanks."

I'd like to head home and fire off a Sending.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 03:07:44 PM
Sure, to who and what's the message?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 03:18:27 PM
We haven't met in person, but I'm Seira Aryn. I've sent my friends to look for you to try and aid your cause, because I believe we wish the same thing, the end to enslavement of xorn. If you would like to work together, either directly or by sharing intelligence on the dao and their allies, contact me directly or through the neutral party of the Padisha of the marid.

That missive is sent to the Great Xorn, so that unless a divine will is shielding him or he is an urban legend despite all signs otherwise it should reach him and await a response.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 03:35:45 PM
Give me a rank check.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 03:36:46 PM
21:36 <CC> roll 1d20+2
21:36 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 20 > [d20=18]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 03:49:11 PM
> roll 1d20+3
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 14 > [d20=11]


'I can hear you! I can hear you! I can hear you! Finally!'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 03:50:11 PM
Are you trapped or captured? Do you need assistance? Tell me if so, along with who has you and where you are being kept!
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 04:03:35 PM
'I'm a dark place that isn't on Earth. It's a tower somewhere, but they used really strong magic to capture me. Men in full armor and cloaks with hoods. One had an emblem of thunderbolts.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 04:10:37 PM
]Does anyone but Talos come to mind, here? K:P and K:R 10 for 85

Where and when were you taken? Were you alone? Did you see any unique magic from your captors, or hear them mention any names?

It should be close enough for a prayer given his plea for aid, so Seira tries to look into the Great Xorn's immediate surroundings as she converses with him!
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 04:26:36 PM
Yan-C-Bin does on occasion, as does Ty-h'kadi.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 04:31:18 PM
Understood, awaiting resolution of question and of looking in.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 04:33:18 PM
It's a small room with walls of stone. Faint blue light flickers from them occasionally. It's a featureless room with no door that you can discern nor no light.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 28, 2018, 04:41:30 PM
'I was exploring a cave in Earth and was alone,' The Great Xorn replies. 'They didn't speak, and the one who cast spells didn't use and with verbal components, or cast them silently.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 28, 2018, 04:52:26 PM
Men, so humanoids? Not storm elementals or fiends? Seira ventures, trying to expand her field of vision. Can you tell what plane you're on? How powerful is your magic? Is it limited in your temporary quarters?

Meanwhile, Seira thinks to Amaryl, 'Please get Donald and Elle and bring them over to me right now. We might need to leave at a moment's notice.'

I should be able to perceive anything within a mile of the Great Xorn, so I'd like to have my consciousness briefly expand and see where this tower is and all I can there for future reference.
More importantly, I have greater arcane sight. Can I see what the Great Xorn's strongest available spell level is, and whether any sort of dimensional locks or whichever exist here?
Finally, since I pierced the barrier to reach him, can I open a Gate over or cast plane shift to whisk him away? If so, would it require a rank check, a CL check, or what?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 29, 2018, 12:55:25 PM
It's solid stone as far as you can see, banded with walls of force, including one just beyond the walls. This goes on for quite some time - admirably far. Eventually above it there is a plain stone building and a bit of open dirt, then nothingness. Some form of demi plane, no doubt. There's only one thing of note - a gold rimmed portal, a great circle of gold wire, a bit away from the building.

'It's not Earth or a related plane, it's somewhere different. Maybe a demi plane. They've taken means to keep me here but mostly leave me alone. They don't seem hostile about it or cruel, they're more professional. It might be mercenaries.'

His highest level spell is 2nd. There's a dimensional lock over it the grounds.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 29, 2018, 01:09:49 PM
I'll try to open a portal, so step through as soon as it appears. It won't hurt if you offer a hopeful prayer to me to strengthen the link!

With that said, Seira decides to use her ability to simultaneously cast several spells to launch a boosted dispel and open a gate for the Great Xorn!

I have three actions, which I'll use for Spell Enhancer+Superb Dispelling on that Dimensional Lock. If that works, I'll use a Gate that same round. If not, I'll choose a different action for my standard. Also, Amaryl and company better get here on my action~
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 29, 2018, 01:31:36 PM
Gimme a dispel check, first of all.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 29, 2018, 01:33:42 PM
19:33 <CC> roll 1d20+45
19:33 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 60 > [d20=15]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 29, 2018, 01:48:20 PM
You feel it begin to work - and you see. The way the energy is resonating proves it is a demiplane. What's more, is that you can see it's a trap now. If anything undoes the lock, the entire demiplane is going to violently collapse, as it's been made the lynchpin of it. Such an event is extraordinarily dangerous to anyone in the demiplane.

Between your greater arcane sight and spellcraft, you see this early enough to stop your spell, if you wish to.

Meanwhile Amaryl and the others are there, "Seira?" she asks.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 29, 2018, 02:09:45 PM
I would like some odds here, and a bunch of clarifications.

-Would antimagic trigger the trap within the dimensional lock spell? Since it'd only be suppressed, it could be a viable alternative to a dispel.
-Do I have any other way into the demiplane from the information I have? Like does my remote viewing allow me to see what's past the golden portal for the apparent point of entry into the demiplane?
-Since it's a demiplane but it seems strongly implied from your responses and the dimensional lock that one can use dimensional travel here, do I have any ideas about this? Does it remind me of anything? How confident am I, actually, that beating the dimensional lock will allow me to plane shift the xorn out?
-Is it possible to stabilize the trap? Like, say, I use my remaining action to delay it going off, and have Amaryl yank the xorn out with Wish on the same round much safer than the alternative.
-Is there an alternate option that my character sees but I do not? As things stand I don't see how I could reach the xorn's demiplane prison in any other way, given its entrance is unknown and it is protected by a divine will (I should know that I ran into divine power there, as with Asmodeus and Lixer before, right?).
-OOC, how would the threat be represented? Similar to an outrun the collapse thing, where there's a dex check/ref save or something along those lines? Continuing damage during a countdown to destruction? Is it immediately lethal, merely dangerous, or something in-between like how Tepen lost part of his soul and was supernaturally debilitated?

Knowledge/Arcana, Religion and the Planes 10 for 85, Spellcraft 10 for 70, I have a bunch of other skills should they be relevant.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on November 29, 2018, 02:14:38 PM
Give me an K:A check here first, this may well matter.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on November 29, 2018, 02:15:03 PM
Knowledge/Arcana, Religion and the Planes 10 for 85, Spellcraft 10 for 70
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 12:48:51 PM
In order.

- It would not, if you could wrap the entire demiplane in antimagic.
- You do not. The portal doesn't show anything past it.
- Reasonably sure, though you can't rule out that it's mind games, some sort of trickery or other sort of fuckery. A group powerful enough to build or use a custom demiplane's versatile enough that you can't entirely discount it.
- How would you propose to stabilize it? Throwing divine power at it, or do you have a particular spell well suited to it?
- Whatever it is, it is named Kulcak. Make an K:P check here.
- It would be an immediate collapse, so you'd need to react quickly. You'd know that IC. It's hard to run when the entire plane you're on is exploding at once. It's the sort of thing an epic character could survive, depending, but even then you'd suspect they'd be tossed who knows where.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 01:20:45 PM
Amaryl and I are bringing you over, so keep us in your prayers and don't resist!

I will be going ahead with this. My standard action will be a divine power (alter reality) intended to find that one in a million chance where the catastrophic collapse is delayed just an extra second, quite in line with what I represent.

Amaryl's action will be to use Wish to approximate a plane shift for the Great Xorn from his captivity and to the Cauldron. He has been told to allow it to go.

K:P of 85 to learn what is Kulcak for future reference.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 01:24:33 PM
Kulcak is barely a person, as much a wind as anything else. What little you know is a memory of a conversation with Chan - mentioning Kulchak, a minor archomental who represents fresh breezes and winds. Relatively powerful for such an entity, it rarely communicates and has a body that is essentially a gust of wind that travels freely across Air.

A chance to reply to that in case that changes the calculus of your actions at all.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 01:26:26 PM
It doesn't, let's do this.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 01:30:55 PM
So much of this depends on speed. To help adjudicate this, I'd like both of you to give me Dexterity checks, as the timing is so incredibly precise.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 01:34:52 PM
19:34 <CC> roll 1d20+12+2+2 Seira
19:34 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 19 > [d20=3]
19:34 <CC> roll 1d20+16+2+1 Amaryl
19:34 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 34 > [d20=15]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 01:40:01 PM
You're slow - a split second mistimed. Yet Amaryl is as fast as her domain over celerity suggests. You feel it - Creation around her resonates with her will, speed beyond speed. There is a tremendous tearing before you're momentarily forced back a step.

Before you is a great, big Xorn. It makes a noise like stones being hurled against a wall before saying, "Uuuugh. Well, any mishap you can walk away from is a good one."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 01:42:02 PM
"Sometimes, brute force is better than any complicated plan," Seira muses, "especially if it lands you in safety. You are among friends now, as I am Seira Aryn and this is my wife, Amaryl."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 01:44:46 PM
You feel it resonate from the Great Xorn - hope. Hope, fresh and vital, suffuses him.

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Amaryl offers. "Are you well?"

One of the Great Xorn's many clawed hands comes up, slowly massaging the back of its head area, mouth opened up much larger than a human's ever could. "I think so, nothing vital's broken. The other claws check over its body, long and slowly. "Nothing important is missing this time."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 01:50:48 PM
"This time?" Seira inquires, bestowing a Heal and a Regeneration on the Great Xorn before looking him over for hostile magic.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 01:57:43 PM
He looks fine on all counts.

"Oh, that time I fought a many headed sorcerer dragon-hydra," The Great Xorn says, "It kept biting off my arms. Or the time with the jelly oozes that tried to dissolve my outer scales and skin."

At that Amaryl laughs softly, "You speak like an adventurer."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 02:01:05 PM
"As far as I can tell, you're just fine right now," Seira muses. "In case it wasn't clear, you're in our realm of the Cauldron. Are you hungry? Do you need any rest?"

It wasn't clear to me previously, under which context did Kulcak come up?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 02:05:10 PM
As the one you made the rank check against. What they're doing there and involved in with this is anyone's guess.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 02:05:41 PM
"I'm hungry," The Great Xorn agrees, sniffing the air, "Do I smell sapphires? Sapphires sound amazing right now, especially set in mithral."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 02:10:30 PM
"I'll ask Vayley to make us something suitable," Seira tells him, indeed using her powers to request a meal for their guest. "In the meanwhile, did you ever cross paths with a minor archomental representing fresh breezes by the name of Kulcak? His powers were guarding you, amongst other things."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 02:27:55 PM
"Oh! I did, once - it sort of blew by when I accidentally ate a wind gem it liked. But then it blew off and didn't bother me again," The Great Xorn says. "It didn't seem to hold a grudge."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 02:31:36 PM
"Could be business, then. I'll ask Chan who this guy is serving these days."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 02:42:50 PM
Okay, next move here then?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 02:45:44 PM
Is Sanzha back from the elemental princes and princesses of goodness? And is Valar back from our first expedition into efreet space?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 02:53:30 PM
Yes, just back and no, respectively.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 02:57:53 PM
Let's meet with Sanzha along with Amaryl and the Great Xorn.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 03:08:52 PM
Lady Sanzha is impeccable as she enters, despite her travels. She gives the Great Xorn a look, "Ah, we have company," she says, "I understand you're already appraised on the situation in Water?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 03:14:31 PM
"I am," Seira affirms. "Although I wonder whether it can truly stay out of this, given that I suspect our friend here was captive by forces from Air." She takes the time to share what little she's learned of the Great Xorn's captivity with Sanzha, before asking, "Does it bring anything to mind, especially considering your recent trip?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 03:20:12 PM
Taking a seat as Amaryl does the same, "It does not. I heard nothing about that at all."

"Well, breezes aren't great at talking," The Great Xorn says, "It usually just howls a lot, or so I hear."

"We could try contacting them directly?" Amaryl suggests, "A direct move may yield fruit."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 03:21:46 PM
"We will after this, yes," Seira agrees. "First of all, Sanzha, who's in? And how enthusiastically?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 03:36:27 PM
"Zaaman Rul is in," Sanzha begins, a faint smile, "Which should surprise no one on Fire. That means Imix is only a matter of time."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 03:39:58 PM
"Yes, this was rather obvious given that I've run my plan past him from the start," Seira agrees. "And Imix was never going to sit this one out. What of Air?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 03:50:01 PM
"The djinn aren't moving fast - more out of order in whatever order they like, but it's just a matter of time. They won't sit out this chance," Lady Sanzha says, shaking her head. "We may see a few enterprising elements helping out until an official declaration comes from the Whirlwind Throne."

"I saw the Whirlwind Throne once," The Great Xorn speaks up, "Though it's silly how they serve a chair instead of a leader. They really need a better leader, don't you think?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 03:59:06 PM
"It's actually just the stand-in for the royal house of the elemental princess of good on Air," Seira comments. "When used that way, anyhow. Sanzha, do you think Yan-C-Bin could be convinced to sit this one out?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 04:02:51 PM
A long thought there, "Not if Chan joins in, that was the impression I got. But it might just be possible because Yan-C-Bin's been paying attention to Shar lately." Lady Sanzha finally says, "Yan-C-Bin is the weakest of the Elemental Princes of Evil with the most precarious position. The right incentive may do it."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 04:09:55 PM
"Let's focus on that. We did come at an agreement before concerning Shar, and I would like to see if we could build on that. What of Ben-Hadar?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 04:16:41 PM
Here Lady Sanzha shakes her head, "I got politely stalled," she frowns at that, "When I found out about the negotiations between yourself and the Padisha, I understood why. There's politics in play, Istishia may be involved. I know her handiwork when I see his handiwork."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 04:17:55 PM
"And your own thoughts on the marid proposal to us?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 04:23:58 PM
Here there is a pause. Lady Sanzha produces a glass of wine from nowhere, pausing to drink. She closes her eyes before she says, "If the Water Lord is behind it, it's not a question of us agreeing to it. It's a matter of our acceptance of what the Water Lord desires to happen in Water. She has his reasons to keep Water out of this war if she is guiding us towards this agreement."

Amaryl frowns, "But why? Why would she? Water hates Fire!"

"I believe it's obvious," Lady Sanzha smiles thinly, "Why do war when others will do war for you?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 04:26:29 PM
"And if it has nothing to do with Istishia? If this time, it was you who went over to negotiate with the Padisha and I sought out Ben-Hadar? Do you think we could get a favorable response, and would it be worth it?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 03, 2018, 05:07:12 PM
"I don't see Ben-Hadar easily agreeing with the Padisha," Is what Lady Sanzha finally says. "We might be able to do, and the worth is almost certain. Water's forces would be vital in quenching the tiresome efreet."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 03, 2018, 05:28:59 PM
"Then that's what we'll do," Seira decides. "I'll get Ben-Hadar to meet with me and get his measure, while you visit with the Padisha. She seemed receptive to our goals when Amaryl and I presented them, so when she said she intends to keep Water out of the fight actually felt strange to me. If there's something we can and are willing do to bring her to our side, you can promise that."

With a glance over at their guest, Seira says then, "The most complicated situation is on Earth. How did our friends there take it?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 12:44:33 PM
The Great Xorn perks up at that.

"Sunnis and Entemoch are not happy with the dao as a rule, and they have no problem with a war there. They're probably going to get involved, but they're a little slow to mobilize because they're entangled with Ogremoch. Most likely that little skirmish becomes part of the war." Here Lady Sanzha smiles even more thinly, "Oh, and I ran into an old acquaintance of yours at court. Zanimoth was there, though on what was kept quiet."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 12:48:15 PM
"Can Ogremoch be kept out of the war? I recall his most defining feature is avarice, and he's not the crusading type."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 01:02:16 PM
"Possibly," Lady Sanzha says, "We'd pay dearly for it and Ogremoch might do so anyway if prodded properly or if his opposites join." Here she drinks deeply again before continuing, "Ultimately, I don't see much value in it. If one of those sides joins, the other does as well, and Earth is already a battleground unless the dao are forced out or withdraw. It's too likely something happens to drag them into the war."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 01:04:20 PM
"Fair enough. In that case, let's focus on the good. A meeting with Zanimoth was a welcome surprise. What did he have to say?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 01:09:29 PM
"Little," Lady Sanzha exhales there, "He is entirely vexing at times, because you can never tell if what he hides or obscures is meaningful or simply for his own nature."

At this the Great Xorn perks up, "He does that if he doesn't like you."

Lady Sanzha turns and gives the Great Xorn a long look, "Speaking from personal experience?"

To this the Great Xorn begins to gesture with all his arms, "He once hid a diamond the size of a balor far away. He wasn't happy when he found out I had it for a big dinner. It wasn't even that good, diamonds really lose their flavor when they get much bigger than a pebble."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 01:11:41 PM
"I'll ask Amaryl to have a word with him, then," Seira muses. "Alright. And what do we know of the situation with the xorn? Ideally, we would strike to free as many of them as we can, and the dao would be too busy fighting in the war to have the forces to recapture them."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 01:18:17 PM
"How are they?" The Great Xorn agrees.

"I wasn't able to get much - I could hardly waltz in where the dao may find me, but they're serving the dao and being enlisted there. That's no great secret," Lady Sanzha concurs. "They're also stomping down hard on any resistance, that's going well for them. The Xorn could desperately use a symbol to rally around."

Two of the Xorn's claws go to rub what is roughly his chin, "I've been a resistance leader before, it's fun unless the enemies find your secret base and destroy it. And if you don't have a secret base, you're hardly a resistance."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 01:21:21 PM
"I think we're getting to the original reason I sought you out," Seira tells the Great Xorn. "You've seen my plans, more or less, and I'm proceeding either way. I don't have any designs on the xorn, either. But if you're willing to join forces, we'll get a lot more done. Perhaps you could convince the xorn to give us information on their dao oppressors. Or maybe you could get the xorn to rebel spectacularly. Perhaps even both. If you'd like, you could have the Cauldron as your not-quite-secret base."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 01:28:14 PM
A response is momentarily lost, as a great howling of wind echos in your mind. No words, just wind.

Amaryl grimaces, "What was that?" Slowly rubbing at her ears, "It's like the wind just screamed at me."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 01:54:50 PM
Kulcak, do we have a problem? Seira decides to ask, speaking for the breeze and Amaryl's ears alike.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 02:34:29 PM
Your answer is more howling of the wind.

"Goodness," Amaryl murmurs, "It sounds like an angry goblin with too much air."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 02:35:29 PM
"Let's continue," Seira decides, keeping the wind out with an application of her will.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 02:41:59 PM
The Great Xorn says, "That does sound fun," he says, "And I haven't had a real adventure yet, plus the dao need to stop. The Xorn can't be ground down into pebbles."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 02:42:51 PM
"How soon could you get things going, and what do you need from us?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 03:04:40 PM
"People to do things, there's always so much to do," The Great Xorn says, "But we'll do it!"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 03:08:23 PM
"Got it. Vayley will be working with you-- remember her? She'll help you get set up in one of our Earth-based environments, too, unless you'd prefer a suite at the palace."

Returning her attention to Sanzha, Seira asks, "What would you suggest our next move to be? Wait on more results first, or set out as planned? You to the Padisha, Amaryl to see Zanimoth and myself to have a chat with Ben-Hadar?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 03:20:17 PM
"We'd best strike while the iron is hot," Lady Sanzha doesn't hesitate, "There's nothing but provoking the Gith Queen that's stopping an assault on the Cauldron. We may not have ease to travel later."

"I agree. If we can round up more allies, then we triumph easier," Amaryl says, "A forest is more than one tree."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 03:24:20 PM
Seira inclines her head. "In that case, Amaryl, take Yandrazrt with you as you go. Since both of you know Zanimoth, it should make things easier. Sanzha, we'll travel together with Elle and Donald to the Padisha's court, and then part ways. Would Donald be a better foil for you during the audience, or would you prefer subtlety and Elle?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 03:25:59 PM
Lady Sanzha's reply is to laugh, "Let Donald stay here and play general."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 03:27:27 PM
"No need. He'll come with me, then, and Elle will go with you. My avatar will be enough to hold down the fort."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 03:31:48 PM
Any prep or ready to go off?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 03:33:47 PM
My usual travel spells on all of us.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 03:43:09 PM
Donald is with you as you part ways with Sanzha and Elle, the two of you together. "So, Ben-Hadar's realm," he asks, "Heard the coral's nice there."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 03:44:38 PM
"Let's form entirely new impressions! Why stay beholden to the past?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 04:05:35 PM
"Rebirth and renewal," he asks, "With Amaryl rising and now Antenora, I've been thinking of what I'd be if I ever made it that far. Renewal's a nice one."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 04:13:48 PM
"You could minor in Luck, while you're at it," Seira adds with a grin. "I'm hoping Sanzha takes the leap next, but after that it's a race and you've got a head start on Elle."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 04:28:14 PM
As Donald waits for you to portal the two of them over, "Imagine," he says with a grin, "So many people trying to live up to my example and act like me."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 04:30:26 PM
"We've all come a long way, you included," Seira tells him warmly. "I don't doubt some struggling would-be paladin will draw inspiration and heart from your tale."

She transports the pair of them afterwards!
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 04:44:28 PM
You appear in a great coral reef above the water. Rainbow colored coral is all around you, walls of it rising and paths through it all about. It's in three dimensions, hardened coral beneath your feet and a path ahead. In the distance you can glimpse water to the left, sparkling clear and bright.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 04, 2018, 04:48:33 PM
I can't recall if we have water breathing, but we have water breathing.

Seira tries to figure out where to go from here. Ben-Hadar wouldn't actually stonewall an ally, would he?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 04, 2018, 11:46:14 PM
I assumed that went without saying for Donald, and it's not like you need to breathe as a deity.

The maze twists and twists and twists. It's quite complex, but your superior intellect allows you to see the way is ahead and upwards for now.

Well, that and the pulse of divine power. The colors shift and change, growing deeper. Colors that you've never seen before, purples beyond purples, a red that is also dark blue at once, something between red and orange that is wholly original. What's more, you sense who it is, utterly unhidden.

Renbuu's power affects the reef, flowing freely.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 01:07:55 AM
Ben-Hadar is hosting Renbuu as a guest. Seira just floats there for a few moments absorbing that, and then she's off towards that pulse of divine power!
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 12:36:26 PM
As you go, Donald calls, "So what's all this about?" he asks, "You got the funniest look on your face."

Meanwhile the maze shifts around you, a rainbow of color and light. It's generally twisting around and around, requiring constant and fast reactions. Fortunately, your divinely enhanced agility is sufficient to manage it without difficulty.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 12:45:23 PM
'It's frogs,' Seira thinks to Donald, her thoughts meant to him alone. "Did you notice how Renbuu sounds like a corruption of rainbow? I wonder if that's intentional," she muses out loud as she proceeds onwards.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 12:54:50 PM
"Huh," Donald murmurs as the two of you fly along, through the shifting maze, eyes on the impossibly colored coral.

Ahead you see Renbuu - hair combed back and snowy white, long enough to reach his back. He is a tall, commanding slaad with eyes like rainbows, clad in finery of a tasteful and refined blue-green. His skin today is a pale gray, the color of washed out stone. You can feel his presence as he waves about a conductor's baton, the coral moving to his whim.

Sitting and watching is a humanoid of blue water, like an elemental a little more humanoid than usual. If not for the crown of pearls and coral adorning him or his sheer, unhidden aura, one may not realize this is the current form of Ben-Hadar.

Amid the swirling coral Renbuu throws his head back, "Splendid! The caged corals sing, but silence! I must finish this masterpiece! Don't you dare speak with your loud minds, either!"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 12:57:05 PM
It is a bit unfair to demand silence while speaking out loud Seira points out via letters drawn all around her, surrounding her much like a rainbow might.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 01:09:00 PM
> roll 1d100
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 57 > [d100=57]

Because slaad. Par for the course dealing with them.


"ARGH!" Renbuu cries, a hand to his head as he stumbles back. The coral all around you withers, becoming gray before raining down all around you, the entire coral maze collapsing into ruin.

Ben-Hadar rubs his face with one watery hand, "Blast. I liked that one."

"No! It was a failure!" Renbuu declares, "But it needs more! More! More!" He paces back and forth, like climbing stairs, rising into the air as he does. His hands are behind his back as he adds, "It needs slime! Slime coral." A paintbrush is suddenly in hand, baton gone. He draws with it, a vibrant pink coral created in midair. Yet it oozes and slimes, slowly expanding, tendrils of slime solidifying into coral and growing.

"Does adding slime to anything ever work out?" Donald wonders aloud.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 01:14:33 PM
"It can't hurt," Seira says quite reasonably.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 01:29:06 PM
All around pink, slimy coral spreads, forming rotating spirals, loops and circles. Endless patterns that all connect together, spreading out in all directions.

"It's too pink," Ben-Hadar speaks up as it spreads, "I thought you wanted to avoid that here, after the Carnation Road?" His voice is reflective, thoughtful.

Renbuu peers ahead at it intently and...

> roll 1d100
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 70 > [d100=70]


"Too pink! Too pink!" Drawing his paintbrush again as well as a palette, "Cinnamon and brown sugar hued purple!" he declares, a strangely and somehow brown-purple color drawn onto the coral, spreading across it faster than it expands.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 01:32:04 PM
"How about emerald and some nice amber to accompany it?" Seira proposes. "I think those are lovely colors."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 01:46:52 PM
Gimme a Diplo check there, Seira. Such are the way of slaad artists.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 01:48:51 PM
19:48 <CC> roll 1d20+67
19:48 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 78 > [d20=11]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 01:59:12 PM
Renbuu paces back and forth again, before waving his brush. Little emeralds blossom like flowers on the coral, crystalline flower petals spreading open. Within is pollen like amber, glittering bright in the light. In moments an entire field and maze of slimey coral with crystalline flowers is before you, a riot of three colors.

> roll 1d100
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 39 > [d100=39]


"It will do," Renbuu declares, "I name you the Sezen Maze."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 02:00:52 PM
"Nice! Very nice!"

Seira sends a mental image of the maze to Amaryl.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 02:08:38 PM
'Oh! It's beautiful,' Amaryl sends right back, 'Where and what is it? Is that coral? It looks a little too...wet for coral?'

Meanwhile Ben-Hadar slowly claps, "Magnificent," he agrees, "Allow me to offer lunch with my compliments." The Archomental waves his hand. Water rises up and forms a table of solid ice, chairs of the same with cushions forming, colored dark blue. They float in the air uncaringly, as with a ripple, water elementals come forth with many covered silver and pearl trays, placing them down. "You're welcome to join us," he then says, meeting your gaze.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 02:12:50 PM
"Thank you, that would be lovely," Seira responds with a smile, claiming one of the seats for herself.

'It's some sort of coral drawn by Renbuu,' she relays to Amaryl in the meantime, before sending a vision of the original maze. 'That's his previous attempt. Donald and Ben-Hadar liked it more.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 02:23:22 PM
The food is an array of fresh seafood, Renbuu tucking in right away. Amid it Ben-Hadar watches him eat - he eats with perfect grace, yet far faster than he should. It's almost enthralling to see, food nimbly and deftly devoured without a hint of waste or crumbs.

'If you came to watch Renbuu eat, then congratulations,' Ben-Hadar replies.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 02:27:30 PM
'The main reason I've come is because it's been a while since we met in person,' Seira responds telepathically in kind. 'I trust my people fully with my intentions, but some things require face to face meetings, won't you agree?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 02:29:56 PM
A slight nod of agreement, Renbuu lost to his eating. Donald himself is tucking as meanwhile, 'Then out with it. It's about what the Padisha offered you, doubtlessly.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 02:32:59 PM
'What do you think of my efforts of late? Of my successes, or my struggles?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 02:47:13 PM
Ben-Hadar looks out past Renbuu, taking in the coral and all beyond it.

'You aren't dead, so you're doing something right,' Ben-Hadar replies right back.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 02:51:38 PM
'I'm still stirring things up, and if anything, I've picked up the pace. I know it'll come with a price, but inaction and tacit approval of the current status quo comes with prices of their own. If it's like that, I'd rather pay the price of action in the hopes of a better outcome. Once more, I'd like to ask for your support in helping make that happen, Ben-Hadar.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 03:00:18 PM
'You mean the efreet?' Ben-Hadar asks back, blandly.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 03:06:08 PM
'I'm fighting them and the dao on behalf of all those people who had their dignity stolen from them. As a smart man said once, I haven't started this fight but I'll damn well finish it.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 03:11:09 PM
'Then I wish you well.' Ben-Hadar takes a glass, raising a silent toast to you. 'Water's role in this coming conflict has been spoken for.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 03:14:18 PM
'By the King of Water Elementals?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 03:17:38 PM
With a long look, 'Who else could? I know not why she went this way instead of informing you personally.' Ben-Hadar says.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 03:21:26 PM
'Do you agree with that decision?' Seira asks frankly. 'I can seek an audience with Istishia, but it is meaningless if you don't believe in the cause of abolition across the Inner Planes or that we could put an end to it by working together.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 03:58:01 PM
'I don't like it,' Ben-Hadar says, flatly. 'But I have little urge to be struck down by the Water Lord.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 04:00:08 PM
'I'm suddenly struck by the urge to visit the Water Lord,' Seira muses. 'Could you recommend the best approach for that?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 04:08:37 PM
"This is amazing," Donald looks up, "What sort of caviar is this?"

Renbuu clears his throat and pauses after a bite, "Magically enhanced," he says, "A testament to the art of cooking!"

Ben-Hadar ignores that and instead sends, 'Be patient and be respectful. She proceeds at her own current and her own times.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 04:09:49 PM
'So I will. You have my thanks,' Seira responds, trying that caviar Donald's so excited about.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 04:17:48 PM
It's spectacular - an explosion of well tuned flavor into your mouth.

Renbuu meanwhile turns and sniffs in your direction, "You smell like your servant Kascha," he says, "I smelled her on Aurora.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 04:19:36 PM
"She's such a little darling, isn't she? So adorable!" Seira practically gushes at this happy topic. "I've actually sent her back to the Aurora recently, so you should be able to catch her if you visit."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 04:26:28 PM
Renbuu takes an entire strip of sushi and devours it daintily before saying, "She is favored by Baleruk. He seems fond of her, I see why you sent her back."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 04:29:18 PM
"Donald here actually wanted to do a short stint with Aurora as well," Seira goes on to say, deciding to try Renbuu's favored sushi next. "Do you think he'd be a good fit? He keeps on saying he wants to fight efreet instead, but vampires are suitable targets."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 04:42:30 PM
Strong. Very strong with a pickled taste.

"Will he bear Baleruk's children as well?" Renbuu hums and considers, "No, the art would not work, not like that. The body can be art, but not always. Too many focus on it without understanding the true beauty of it."

Ben-Hadar seems content to sit back, smile faintly and watch the back and forth.

"Well....breasts?" Donald offers, shrugging, "If those aren't art, then the body can't be art."

> roll 1d100
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 100 > [d100=100]

That happened, huh?


Renbuu throws back his head and cackles, "YES! Let there be bosoms!" he declares, hopping up, the table knocked up and then down, almost smashing all of you in the face. In an instant they grow - bosoms, alright, all over the pink, slimy coral. ....huh.

Huh.

Huuuuuh.

Ben-Hadar looks on, expression sliding into complete unexpressiveness. All around you they grow and plump up on the coral, "There! The perfect touch to this masterpiece!"

Donald stares, and after several moments of dead silence, "Do they...are they alive?" Donald manages to venture.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 04:46:02 PM
It sounds like they found the perfect souvenir!
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 05, 2018, 04:50:15 PM
"They are alive with ART!" Renbuu shouts, gesturing far and wide, all over. "Is it not a stunning and bold new direction to go in? It is truly a new wave in artistic work! Long has unreality and flesh weaving been in disfavor, but now it is time for those to return to artistic favor!"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 05, 2018, 04:55:30 PM
"Congratulations!"

Meanwhile, Seira decides to strike while the iron is hot, and sends a mental request.

Istishia, I humbly request a few minutes of your time
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 12:34:56 PM
Before you, the strange coral dissolves into water. In instants it is all gone, Renbuu whirling on Ben-Hadar. Slowly Ben-Hadar pinches the bridge of his watery nose, "No. I don't care if it makes me stodgy, Renbuu. I am not having those here."

The slaad lord throws his hands up into the air, "Artists are never understood in their time! Tell me that is not art!"

Meanwhile?

You may speak.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 12:42:04 PM
It is my understanding that the powers of Water have been instructed to stay out of the war between slavers and abolitionists. May I inquire as to the reasons for such?

Seira decides to make her own contribution to art and conjures up a lovely elven woman mid-dance. Then, statues of her appear through the following actions, as if depicting her moving in slow motion. They circle the table at a good distance, before finally merging into a proper loop as the last image is the prelude for the first.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 12:54:34 PM
> roll 1d100
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 59 > [d100=59]


"My problem," Renbuu begins, turning to you, "Is that elven art is endlessly self referential and circular, the same core tenets always coming around and around." His voice is dry, like a professor lecturing. "Can you not agree that elven art theory is strong within its roles but hopelessly hamstrung beyond them?"

"Nah," Donald says, sitting back now, drinking from a goblet of water, "I mean, most of it's terrible, but within the themes there's a lot of variation that usually moves beyond them."

I will allow it. It is my choice. Let Fire burn its fuel while Water flows unobstructed.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 01:01:20 PM
I've recently rescued the Great Xorn from captivity by powers from Air, by all accounts. Would Fire truly burn its fuel without acting on its designs upon Water? What if Fire is allowed to grow by a series of wins, and decides to expand its influence here by force? What would be of the marid, of the water elementals and the other inhabitants, given what the efreet and their devil allies think is acceptable treatment for their captives or those they see as lesser beings?

"Elven art is flowery, but there is a great deal of variation within. The act of coming around and around happens as the result of the way elves like to treat their art as not merely enjoyment, but also as a vital instrument of learning."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 01:05:26 PM
Fire will not grow. At best any wins will cost them too much strength.

Let a weakened Fire come and quench itself for all time within Water.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 01:09:59 PM
If Air and Earth decide similarly, Fire would have a good chance of doing just that. I'll do my best, but my true strength lies in the support of my friends. It is over that support that I've approached you now. Please allow them to act upon their conscience.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 01:19:48 PM
No. Water shall flow freely, untouched by a war that will weaken Fire.

Meanwhile Renbuu looks at the image and rubs his chin, as if lost in thought.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 01:28:01 PM
Seira breathes temporary life into the statues, causing them to animate their never-ending dance.

Even assuming things go as planned, Fire will not be weakened. My war is against the slavers, so once victory is achieved, Fire will be rebuilt to new heights. The winning side will have a say in how that restoration goes, but as things stand right now, Water will be kept out of post-war settlement and lack any ways of influencing the outcome.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 01:31:12 PM
My will in this shall not change. Whichever side wins, Water shall triumph and grow stronger, without spending its strength.

"No, no," Renbuu says, "It needs more wings. Wings! Lots of wings!"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 01:43:31 PM
"Wings are very lovely on elves," Seira agrees, adjusting the androgynous but probably female dancing elves accordingly!

If that is your will, I will respect it. But I wonder, can Water grow truly strong by humbly following orders? Is the basis for true strength not competition and struggle, in particular for a cause that is capable of driving you past your limits? That has been my experience.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 01:57:39 PM
Water shall grow strong, for I shall guide it. Wage your war, Seira, but Water shall not be a part of it.

Renbuu watches the flying and claps slowly, "A marvelous example! I approve!" Renbuu then eyes your hair, "Purple," he says aloud, as if considering it.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 02:00:52 PM
"I don't mind giving it a try, though I've only recently decided to go for a fiery orange," Seira tells Renbuu.

To Ben-Hadar, she thinks, 'I cannot understand Istishia's movites, so this turn of events is a shame. Should it come to that, can I count on your help with the Cauldron's defense?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 02:13:54 PM
Your hair is suddenly a deep, rich and vibrant shade of purple. Renbuu leans over the table to peer at it, "It smells like apples," he says, "Purple apples." With a soft pop, a purple apple appears in your hand. Renbuu takes one out of nothingness as well, biting into it. When he speaks, "A splendid taste of art. Yes, the best art is edible art."

Ben-Hadar is watching it all with a slight look of amusement, 'I am limited by the Water Lord's will. Should that come to pass, I will petition the Water Lord anew. Should the worst happen, you and yours may come here for sanctuary.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 02:17:29 PM
'Be careful. As I told the Water Lord, I recently rescued the Great Xorn from what seems to be forces on Air. Depending on the goodwill and honor of efreet to avoid Water's interests is an interesting proposition. Should you need it, I'll send my forces.'

Seira bites into the purple apple, deciding to see what great art tastes like.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 02:27:13 PM
It tastes like fairy dreams, a good night's sleep and roast beef.

Ben-Hadar returns that look with a slight nod back to you.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 02:46:28 PM
"Delicious! I'll bring another back for Amaryl," Seira says, as a second apple just like it appears in her hands. "For now, I believe it's time for us to get going."

I intend to go with Donald to the deep ethereal, to the same restaurant Lathander brought me to last time.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 02:58:08 PM
Got any particular goal there so I can set up for it?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 02:59:01 PM
Once there, Seira sends a message to Yan-C-Bin inviting him to a meeting under flag of truce.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 03:07:59 PM
The answer comes with a rumble of thunder, a simple question. 'What do you want to discuss?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 03:09:57 PM
The efreet war and another topic of a more personal nature
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 03:13:27 PM
The answer is not verbal. Instead it is winds, howling and stirring. Before you the winds gather into a thick black stormcloud, looming above both of you, lightning crackling within.

"Seira," Is said in the voice of thunder.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 03:19:30 PM
Seira inclines her head. "Thank you for taking the time to see me," she says, even as she ensures secrecy from any others who might listen in. "The Great Xorn had been abducted by mercenaries bearing the emblem of thunderbolts. The location was guarded by Kulcak's power. I wished to ask whether it was your operation, or if you are being framed for it."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 03:20:59 PM
Donald starts to say something, but Yan-C-Bin thunders over him, "I do not dominate that symbol. I had nothing to do with it, nor do I care about the Great Xorn."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 03:25:37 PM
"Of course not," Seira agrees, nodding at his words. "I thought to cut to the chase in that matter, and find out whether there was a problem I could mediate in. Thank you."

I'd still like to sense motive this.

"My other question had to do with the war. I'm fighting the efreet empire over their practice of slavery. To the best of my knowledge, while we have many differences in opinion, that does not happen to be one of them. Would I be wrong to say so?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 03:32:21 PM
Sure, gimme a sense motive check before anything else.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 03:34:20 PM
21:33 <CC> roll 1d20+46+16+15
21:33 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 84 > [d20=7]

Forgot +4 from GH, so 88 totaly.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 03:38:55 PM
As far as you can tell, he seems to be telling the truth.

"I have little use for enslaving the weak, but I do not forbid it," Yan-C-Bin says, "Air's nature is to flow free, be in wrath or the weak, gentle breezes Chan champions." He rumbles at that as Donald watches, staying out of the back and forth for now.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 03:45:18 PM
"Are you amenable to taking on the efreet alongside me?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 03:47:37 PM
Yan-C-Bin rumbles faintly, "Just yesterday, an efreet emissary came asking for me to join them. I will tell you what I told them: What's in it for me?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 03:52:58 PM
"What would make it worthwhile to you? I wouldn't want to presume to know that better than you, or to throw money at any problem the way the efreet handle things."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 04:08:44 PM
"Money is hardly the answer," Yan-C-Bin says, "Something powerful, something meaningful. You know what truly matters on our stage."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 04:30:24 PM
"I possess an artifact that Earth would find particularly priceless," Seira muses, "and I'm researching a way to augment Behemoths with elemental energy. Imagine one of those magnificent beasts truly at home on Air! Perhaps we could move past a mutual defense pact where it concerns Shar and begin cooperating in other matters, be they trade or arcane research where our interests intersect? And there might be times when it would be more convenient to go through an intermediary while discussing matters with Chan, which is what a closer alliance between us will turn me into, rather than someone firmly in her camp."

It's the scattershot approach, but Seira is carefully studying him for reactions, be they of interest or of taking offense.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 04:38:02 PM
Gimme a general SM check for that, Seira.

"What artifact?" Yan-C-Bin asks.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 04:40:31 PM
22:39 <CC> roll 1d20+46+16+15+4
22:39 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 96 > [d20=15]


"Are the words 'Earthbone Steel' familiar to you?" she says by way of answer.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 04:47:36 PM
Yan-C-Bin is silent at that, no tells at all, still as the winds.

"I'm listening."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 04:54:12 PM
"I've been holding onto a weapon made of that priceless substance, heavily enchanted, of course. It is priceless everywhere, but I suspect its value to Earth's denizens would be even higher. Given the natural state of affairs between Earth and Air, it could either be used to bridge the gap or to particularly gall the locals, depending on the way it's put in play."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 05:02:21 PM
"What price would you want for such a thing?" Yan-C-Bin asks, winds whipping faster, stronger.

Donald meanwhile adds in here, "I prefer Cauldron Steel, anyway."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 05:12:02 PM
"I would propose an alliance against the efreet and their allies in this war, where each of us will come to the aid of the other if attacked by the other side. Outside of it, your participation in said war in an offensive capacity as well. On top of the spoils going to you, I propose paying a recovery fee for every freed slave delivered to safety in my realm or one of the participating heavens, as well as an offer that retrieved gear originally belonging to the Cauldron or one of its allies would be offered to be bought back by the relevant party at a ten percent premium over the usual asking price."

Seira nods to herself. "That is the core of the offer. As an addendum, I would confer with Chan and is the two of you are both amenable would suggest a ceasefire between the two of you until a year past the day the efreet war had been officially concluded, as well as establishing trade between the Cauldron and your holdings to bolster our economy despite its war footing. Finally, I would like to put in a clause where if both sides are amenable to this, the ceasefire could be prolonged further after the original date comes to pass. Perhaps we shall find that there is more we would like to cooperate on during this time. Perhaps not. But I believe the possibility exists."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 05:19:35 PM
Just for reference here, give me diplo?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 05:22:11 PM
23:21 <CC> roll 1d20+84
23:21 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 96 > [d20=12]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 05:24:52 PM
Yan-C-Bin is silent, "What of Chan's role in this?" he asks, after some long moments.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 05:28:54 PM
"She's in, as far as fighting on my side is concerned. My offer, however, comes straight from me and was not made on her behalf. There will also be plenty of fighting to be done, so there would be no need for you to cross paths. I've taken to heart the lessons from the grand Astral rift battle."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 05:35:30 PM
Yan-C-Bin thunders and rumbles, a counteroffer. "I will offer you neutrality - I won't support anyone in this, nor will my servants. The efreet will gain no help from my forces, no matter how they plead."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 05:52:23 PM
"There's nothing I can say to change your mind?" Seira inquires. "Further cooperation could grow out of this, and unlike the efreet my word is my bond. You wouldn't need to be watching your back for some inevitable betrayal. After my training under Waukeen, I'm also adept at finding solutions where both parties have something to gain, rather than the zero sum worldview employed by the efreet."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 05:56:54 PM
Yan-C-Bin glowers down at you, "Why do you want Chan and I on the same side? It's only remotely understandable if we were facing all of Earth - or that meddler, Shar. You yourself are aligned with the light, not the darkness."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 06:03:32 PM
"The dao have joined the war under the efreet banner, and Ogremoch might well move in their support," Seira notes. "What if I were to ask Chan to restrict herself to the Fire, and asked you to support me on Earth? It would no longer be the same front." After a brief pause, she adds, "As for the why of it? I despise slavery and wish to see it ended. You are most capable, and so are your forces. Why wouldn't I want to ask for your involvement on my side?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 06:10:20 PM
You said something that got his attention. Give me diplo again.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 06:13:41 PM
00:13 <CC> roll 1d20+84
00:13 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 93 > [d20=9]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 06:19:13 PM
Yan-C-Bin shifts, becoming a humanoid of wind, like an elemental with more refined features. His face can be seen - loose and airy, yet with a look of interest. "I would see Earth ripped apart by endless winds," he declares, "Its elementals destroyed, the dao ripped asunder and the Princes of Elemental Good and Evil reduced to dust on the wind. Ah. I see. That's what you need - ruthlessness and power."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 06:27:24 PM
"I seek the dao defeated, their slaves freed, be they xorn or otherwise, and the victory to be so traumatic that they would no longer seek to enslave others in the future," Seira tells Yan-C-Bin. "I want their allies to learn the error of their ways, and for their lamentations to serve as warning for others who might consider joining the war on their side. And I want to see it happen through a military campaign. Any guerrilla force could inflict losses on the population, but to truly crush their fighting spirits their finest warriors must be met on the field of battle and annihilated utterly. Do you agree?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 06:36:20 PM
"I want free reign to conduct this campaign as I wish," Yan-C-Bin replies, flames of air starting to rise from his face, which becomes more and more defined.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 06, 2018, 06:38:37 PM
"What does that mean in practice? I've learned that bad communication is the worst enemy on a battlefield."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 06, 2018, 06:44:01 PM
"It means that my forces do as I command and you do not restrain us. You let us loose on Earth to do as we wish against the dao and any who support them." Is the reply you get.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 06:03:38 AM
Seira doesn't rush to a response, going over everything once more in her mind. Just like that, the stakes have risen far beyond what she had originally intended, so now she'll need to make the right choice for her.

"Maintaining my alliance is paramount, if I am to achieve victory on all fronts," Seira says at last. "For that to happen, the rules of engagement throughout must adhere to those of my forces during the Androlynne and Agares campaigns. To avoid a misunderstanding, are you familiar with them?" she asks Yan-C-Bin, her tone professional and with exceptional effort towards avoiding any hint of offense. Perhaps if she'd made that extra effort with the Sultan....

"The targets in this war are the adult dao and those who have joined the war on their side as their allies," Seira continues to lay out the way said rules of engagement would be interpreted in the current war. "Noncombatants amidst the dao and amidst their aforementioned racial allies are defined as either those who have yet to reach the age of majority for races capable of growing up, or those who do not hold slaves, do not enlist to fight in the war and do not live in any settlement the population of which has a majority of combatant. In the event of edge cases where adhering to these rules of combat will put undue danger to your forces, such as a planned assault on a majority-civilian metropolis with a very strong contingent of military defenders, you may call on me to come in person and shoulder those risks myself."

Dune, as discussed in PM, I'm detailing the 'minimal requirement'/'lowest common denominator' rules of engagement for those fighting on my side by referring to previous campaigns. This way rules-lawyering over some forgotten aspect is avoided while the intent is clear and present. Please let me know if sufficient clarity is lacking.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 01:02:48 PM
"Mercy to those of Earth," Yan-C-Bin hisses like a gale squeezed through a straw, "Why spare their children? They will become more dao, more of the slavers you hate."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 01:06:56 PM
"The slavery is part of their culture, not nature. They weren't born slavers, and if we do this right they won't grow up like the previous generations. I have people who oversaw the deprogramming of Sharran nations with quite the degree of success after we subjugated them, so I'm confident I could make it work. Also, regardless of my sentiments, I believe this to be a superior tactical choice. Those with no way to retreat will fight as cornered, wounded animals. On the other hand, give those cowards a way out and they will fall over each other to surrender, bringing overall victory that much closer."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 01:24:55 PM
"Foolishness," Yan-C-Bin says, "The dao will not change - they will play at sword point if they must, but they will not find a better nature. Your hope blinds you to reality - they must be wiped away with winds, reduced to dust."

"Hey Seira," Donald speaks up, even as wind blows his hair, "Someone doesn't know your record of doing impossible things through hope. You really need to make sure people hear this before they open their mouths."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 01:27:47 PM
"Donald truly does cut to the heart of things," Seira agrees. "Not only do I believe in this, but that very belief is part of my nature, as much of it as the winds are a part of yours. Perhaps time will prove me the foolish one, yet leave that failure to me. Your victory will be just as clear regardless. After all, I doubt you would find facing against children a worthy challenge."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 01:35:53 PM
"Yeah, and besides," Donald goes on, "You're destruction," He points at Yan-C-Bin, who gazes on at Donald like he is a bug to be crushed. "You really want to sit back and not take your shots at Earth, twiddle your breezes while war comes to Earth? So let me lay this out here: We don't agree, we don't get along. But you know what? We both need the dao dealt with. Play along with our rules and you'll get plenty of destruction. Don't and well...why would you be the representation of winds and destruction again?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 01:39:15 PM
"We'll get more done working together," Seira says, presenting a more mellow message while not contradicting or rebuking Donald for his all the same. "I know it, which is why I've approached you. You know it too, which is why you're here listening. We're negotiating over the specifics, but here too there is little maneuvering space due to your interests and my pre-existing allies. And yet, despite that, we're still here, talking, because we see a way for both of us to get enough of what we want out of this. I propose we make it official."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 01:46:31 PM
Give me a diplo check, +2 since Donald helped out and you said some of the right things.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 01:47:59 PM
19:47 <CC> roll 1d20+67+15+16
19:47 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 106 > [d20=8]

+2 so 108.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 02:08:43 PM
There is a pause where the only noise is the blowing of the air. Finally, he says, "I would see this item of Earthbone Steel for myself before anything else. Show it to me."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 02:12:34 PM
Seira shoves her right hand into a rift that appears at her side; it leads to the Cauldron, and her avatar hands over the mace in question after having retrieved it from the secure vaults.

"Dylisal," Seira announces, drawing it forth. "A powerful if profane weapon, taken from a worthy foe in battle. Incredibly powerful enchantments, even for a regular weapon, but it is its composition that makes it truly priceless, either to use or as a bargaining chip with Earth."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 02:12:55 PM
Dylisal: Earthbone Steel Heavy Mace+8, profane burst and impact. No price because Earthbone Steel is essentially priceless. You pay favors and other such things for it, not money.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 02:25:08 PM
Winds begin to whip around Yan-C-Bin, his gaze intent on the mace. He says not a word, but his attention seems fully on it, eyes locked on hard.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 02:27:28 PM
Seira is happy to be holding it through a glove, frankly, though she doesn't show any signs of it. She can wait Yan-C-Bin out.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 02:33:35 PM
"I will destroy it," Yan-C-Bin intones, winds starting to pick it up, "Destroy that loathesome thing! Give it to me and I shall wreak my vengeance on the dao."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 02:35:58 PM
Seira places the mace on the table between them, offering Yan-C-Bin her hand. "We are entering an alliance against the dao and their own allies in this war under the conditions we discussed today. Agreed?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 02:54:37 PM
Yan-C-Bin snatches the mace in hand, "Accepted," he says, agreement given.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 02:56:38 PM
Seira inclines her head. "Thank you again for coming here to meet me. I will contact you with actionable intelligence shortly."

Then she places her hand on Donald's shoulder, and they disappear.

I intend to arrive at Aurora's doorstep, after using a glance at Kascha to find its current location
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 03:09:52 PM
What'cha planning to do here?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 03:10:43 PM
Check on Kascha's progress, leave Donald, see if there's anyone cool who wants to introduce themselves.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 03:31:21 PM
Sure. Make sure to note what happened to the mace in loot, okay?

Kascha's found in the courtyard. It's not too busy at the moment as she calls, "Seira! You came. How's the war effort?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 03:33:20 PM
Already had.

"Still in its infancy, but we're starting strong," she tells her. "I was hoping that you had some progress on that arcane thesis, since before long we won't have time to devote to it."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 03:46:41 PM
Awesome. I'm having a brain fart here, refresh me on this?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 03:49:36 PM
I sent Kascha with all existing Calley notes (including what I got from Mystra and Moore to decode them) to 21's guardian to ask it any questions that might shed some light on the notes, given the similar origin for them. Then I told her to go to the Aurora, nicely ask for access to the library (and to Elena) and see if anything makes sense.

Now I'd like to hear what she came up with.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 07, 2018, 04:06:17 PM
Oh sorry, arcane thesis made me think of the feat and I was totally lost.

"Here you go," Kascha says, producing a small book, "I put it all together for you and it should lead to some insights on it."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 07, 2018, 04:08:28 PM
"Thanks! So before we go into your future plans, did you get a chance to run into Ebony? I remember you wondering about Syala's attitude for your second home, which is part of the reason I had you come here."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 08, 2018, 01:42:57 PM
"I did, but I think I need to talk to Syala directly," Kascha admits, "Ebony was polite about it, but she's also not Syala and while she sees Syala isn't that upset?"

Meanwhile Donald's looking around, eyeing the portal towards Baleruk's lair and starting quietly fly up towards it.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 08, 2018, 01:45:39 PM
"Walk me through your notes?" Seira asks of Kascha. "A summary is fine at this time. And after, I'll ask for an audience with Syala and send you right over. These sort of concerns shouldn't be left to fester."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 08, 2018, 02:02:02 PM
Kascha clears her throat, "Well...."

As Donald flies off and away, Kascha begins.

Give me an Int check here? I'll spare all of us Kascha going on and on IC about it.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 08, 2018, 02:06:36 PM
20:06 <CC> roll 1d20+20+16
20:06 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 55 > [d20=19]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 08, 2018, 02:21:04 PM
It looks like some useful things gathered together: It should help for sure, you think.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 08, 2018, 02:25:21 PM
Well, then. Seira dispatches two missives.

One, to Moore. It would be good if you stopped by the Cauldron regarding our mutual project

The other, to Syala. My darling Kascha has been agonizing over something, could you grant her an audience if I sent her over?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 08, 2018, 02:30:37 PM
The reply from Syala isn't verbal, just a simple sensation of agreement.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 08, 2018, 02:32:51 PM
"Syala's agreed to sit down with you, so I'm sending you towards her now," Seira tells Kascha. "Please ask her to return you home once you're done? No one is allowed to travel on their own, after all."

Then, having guided Kascha to the gates, Seira delivers her to the source of the assent in Sylica.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 01:25:14 PM
Going with her or sending Kascha one way? Matters.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 01:26:03 PM
Sending her one way safely.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 01:35:26 PM
Easily done. Next move?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 01:38:20 PM
I'm waiting on various things.

-Is Oraga back yet?
-Is Valar back from his raid at the efreet slave camps? Since I also have War domain I could keep a constant watch to feel the pulse of things.

Otherwise, I'll wait for Donald to return.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 01:42:12 PM
> roll 1d20+7 Donald diplomacy thi sis not a role you want to see done usually
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 22 > [d20=15]


You wait a little bit. You are given a respectful distance by all, waiting - until a semi familiar face approaches. Hanna walks up to you, in her gear and with her axe slung across her back. She comes to a polite distance and bows, "Dragon Princess."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 01:44:20 PM
"Hanna, right?" Seira greets her with a grin. "Kascha swears by you." And measures things by her, for some weird reason. "What can I do for you?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 01:51:30 PM
"I've heard you have daughters," she says, "Adventurers, no less. Is that true?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 01:56:53 PM
Seira shakes her hand to and fro. "They're mostly starting out. You try to teach them and prepare them for the world, but at some point you need to let them go and allow them to make their mistakes." And in Emily's case, get so absorbed in talking about adventure that she never actually heads out to do it properly, alas.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:03:10 PM
"So it is," Hanna says, "I've crossed paths with Xera. She's what you'd expect for a divine child, well trained too. She seems ill inclined to make mistakes."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 02:05:24 PM
"If anything, she's too serious and diligent," Seira agrees. "But it's not bad, exactly, so I'm supporting her and hoping she learns the fun sides of adventuring on the go at some point. You've met, though, have you? Under which circumstances?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:09:28 PM
"She stopped in to see Kascha," Hanna explains, adjusting the strap of her axe holster. "Better than not being serious enough. One overfocuses you, the other can make you dead."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 02:11:23 PM
Seira laughs. "More like locked up in a laboratory or talking about glorious adventures instead of heading out in the world. But fate'll draw Emily out kicking and screaming soon enough."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:21:01 PM
"So she's more of a scholar?" Hanna asks, "Emily, that is." Adjusting her axe again, "I heard she's trained to fight Sharrans, but that sounds more like Kascha."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 02:24:26 PM
"Yeah I don't know where I went wrong," Seira admits with a shrug. "I thought I was tailoring the training the girls got towards what they liked, on top of the obvious necessary life skills everyone should have. But maybe I misread her desires a bit. Perhaps she would've been happier as a traveling bard or a multi-discipline factotum than a paladin?"

She shrugs again, adding, "In the end, we've got plenty of time. If we don't find the right path, we retrain ourselves until the world makes sense again. I was plenty into glory back while starting out, but that's all changed by now."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:25:38 PM
To this Hanna's smiling, "Want some advice?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 02:26:36 PM
"Always! You've clearly raised a planar success story! Angharradh is so proud~"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:29:49 PM
This gets Hanna to laugh, a wry sound, "Jaela and I didn't get along for some time. In fact, I didn't raise her, circumstances meant I had to leave her to be raised by others. Then we both end up on Aurora and I find out she's dating a vampire who I'd had previous problems with."

Taking a long sigh out, "Children do what they want, it's part of growing up. Sometimes you have to throw your hands up, try and prevent the worst and let them blunder along. No matter how badly it goes for them. It's common advice to the point of being a cliche, but it's so completely true. Jaela figured it out in the end and we're reconciled, but it wasn't a smooth a road as I hoped it would be."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 02:33:28 PM
"You know, I was ready for all that?" Seira muses, deciding to focus on that rather than the delicate matter of vampires given Aurora's current Crusade. "I'm mostly annoyed that a bullshit higher force is preventing me from having a hand in it. I guess I get how you must've felt? But to hit on one of the few restrictions I actually have is something I haven't really accepted yet, so it'd remain a pain for the foreseeable future."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:38:14 PM
"I felt the same about Annalise. I couldn't get Jaela to see the light on her. It's hard to accept what we can't fix for them, or when they won't walk a good path we've cleared for them. It's too easy to see them as children, dependent on us and needing us to nurture them." Hanna's smile is a little bittersweet.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 02:41:27 PM
"Still, you know... saving someone is the best feeling. Even if it takes forever, and there's no great proclamation of how they were wrong, but just one day they look back and they're a different person and they're happy with that."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:44:36 PM
"The problem is getting to that-"

Hanna is cut off by a loud draconic roar, echoing amid the courtyard.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 02:46:20 PM
"Even Alicia doesn't have a hundred percent success rate," Seira commiserates, undaunted by the draconic roaring. "Sometimes we try to do everything right and still fail. Shame your daughter didn't have luck on her side."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 02:58:47 PM
"I don't think there was any reaching that one, not with what she was." Hanna adds, and then stops. Another roar, this one clear. A roar of draconic triumph, of draconic victory. Moments later Baleruk emerges from his lair, soaring above Aurora. Riding him is Donald, and in his wake, Baleruk leaves a wide spread trail of dust, rainbow hued dust. Rather similar to pixie dust on a glance, at least visually, minus the array of colors.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 03:02:17 PM
This image, too, Seira shares with Amaryl.

"I think there's always a chance. In fact, that's pretty much what I stand for. Will, however, or luck? That's different." Pointing at the flying dragon, Seira muses, "That's also different, speaking of. Is the dragon pixie dust new? Kascha never mentioned that."
Title: Afina sheds a tear of respect
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 03:10:32 PM
'What is Donald doing?!' Amaryl sends back, 'Is that Baleruk?'

"That's....new to me," Hanna finally says, as everything shades rainbow colors where the dust lands, changing hue and vibrancy to a riot of colors.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 03:12:40 PM
"New experiences are great!" Seira tells her cheerfully, giving Donald a thumbs up.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 03:21:49 PM
"Why?" Hanna murmurs, watching the entire scene. Donald waves back to you as people run out of Aurora itself - Mirima and Rosa at the moment, just in time to be covered in dragon-pixie dust. They both immediately become a riot of colors, sharp and contrasting, like they were drenched in a rainbow.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 03:24:29 PM
"I suppose Donald really is needed here," Seira muses, content to watch.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 03:42:35 PM
You watch, Baleruk being chased and Donald laughing? You feel it. A connection to Donald, a pulse.

Node update, go read.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 03:45:44 PM
Done so

"Incidentally, since I'm here," Seira voices to Hanna. "I believe you came across some valkyries as potential recruits earlier, but things didn't work out? Since I'm looking for strong recruits for my war against the slavers, got any tips for how to best approach them? Or if there were others you guys considered but they weren't a good fit for Aurora, and not on ethical grounds?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 03:53:21 PM
"There were some, discounting ones of an unethical moral character," Hanna says, "If I recall with the valkyries, there were issues involved with slaad."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 03:55:08 PM
"Don't send the frogs to make contact, check," Seira readily agrees. "I'll look into them, so would you mind sending me the other leads later? I'm going to ask Donald to go on a tour."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 03:56:16 PM
Got any particular goals here, Seira? Just checking in on that real quick.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 03:57:48 PM
Quite literally, I'm going to send Donald and Agathaiel on a tour trying to recruit these people, starting with the valkyries. Who doesn't want to punch an efreet slaver or their devil ally in the face and free some dudes?

Explicitly focusing on those that didn't work out with Aurora to avoid poaching. OOC knowledge also tells me they had a contact in Kossuth's court on Fire, so that might be neat for information, too.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 04:00:17 PM
Sure thing. I meant with the Aurora tour, though.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 04:03:37 PM
Donald and Kascha did their thing, so I'm ready to leave! Either with Donald so he heads out from the Cauldron, or on my own if he wants to stay and leave on his recruitment tour later with all the info.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 04:04:42 PM
That said! My next move, unless I hear from Oraga or Valar, is to return to the Cauldron and send my avatar out to Alyssa's world. Specifically, to where she said she was tested by Io. Let's see if I can find anything in that ruined dungeon.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 04:17:02 PM
Easily enough done. We'll go onto Valar, he's done with his end of it.

You meet with Valar, who nods back to you on your approach. He's sitting down, tired looking but he raises his hand in greeting. "The troops proved themselves well," he begins with.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 04:19:30 PM
"I felt," Seira responds. "You're tired enough that I won't keep you long for the debriefing. Give me the highlights, our successes and our points of improvement."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 04:24:55 PM
"We did well, the troops are trained and know how to fight in good order. We faced non trivial resistance and the efreet, though we did a good job at an offensive while mimizing losses," Valar rests back, eyes closing a moment. "We got some slaves, had to leave others, and inflicted losses while capturing some plunder and war goods. It was a success, but the efreet are already strengthening and showing that there's no chance we roll over them."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 04:28:13 PM
"Why did we have to leave some of the slaves?" Seira inquires. "I thought our planning accounted for simultaneous combat with the efreet and extraction of the slaves. Do we need more dedicated Gate specialists, or were their defenders insufficient? Or do you mean that of the targets you were to hit, you decided to forego a few due to the efreet there digging in?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 04:34:59 PM
"A little bit of the first, but mostly the second. We were exposed as the battle shaped up, I couldn't risk that many soldiers over it," Valar says, "The efreet were prepared for that strategy. We still did well, but we didn't achieve tactical surprise beyond the first moments. Whomever was commanding them was skilled or lucky."

Sitting up straighter now, "It's still a success, but if we try this same tactic, I'll want a stronger striking force and a little more support on our flanks."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 10, 2018, 04:39:36 PM
Does he mean he wants triple the realm production next time? Or to send more powerful people? Or something else?

"I've already got Donald working on it," Seira assures him. "Let me try to redesign the basic attack plan, too. Perhaps we could aim to arm the slaves en masse and give them a fighting chance, while forcing the efreet to cut their losses? Either way, when will your liberation force be ready to strike once more?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 10, 2018, 10:37:33 PM
"Risky and likely to lead to mass deaths. The slaves aren't automatically warriors or skilled, especially compared to an efreet." Valar admits, "But better than letting them die defenseless. Give them a day for rest and to reorganize. I want to make a few of my own adjustments now that I've seen how they work."

Nothing yet, this is mostly on the level of adjusting things slightly and reorganizing as well as fine tuning tactics. Now that he's met the enemy, he can see better what worked and what didn't, and begin to digest the lessons from that.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 02:32:21 AM
Seira nods. "I understand. Having been in that situation myself, I know I would've liked a chance to fight back. But I'm not talking about drafting anyone by force; merely presenting the chance to defend themselves, if they choose." Frowning, she asks, "Have you seen any fell means of trapping souls over there? I remember the reports about the efreet ships."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 12:30:27 PM
"Nothing where we attacked,' Valar admits, "At least that the soldiers recognized, it's possible it was encountered and destroyed before identification or missed. They have been trained in that so it's just as likely we didn't come on any, if not more likely."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 12:40:36 PM
Seira nods her understanding. "We might also want to use a scorched earth policy, if you'll forgive the pun. Destroying their slave barracks, any ships in hangar or what have you would likely work in our benefit, since I don't doubt they'd act the same way towards our infrastructure."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 12:44:16 PM
"As we can," Valar suggests, leaning forward and resting an elbow on the table. "It's a fair objective, but defeating the efreet and the slaves should come first, then destroying infrastructure. Speaking of, the slaves we did rescue are being tended to. We got a handfuls that are faithful of other, non evil deities and forces. I suggest we send messages, offer to pass them onto those deities and what they wish. It's an easy way to accrue points with them."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 12:49:50 PM
"My rationale is that the efreet are very materialistic, and this will put a much larger burden on their society than it would, say, on Celestia. In the end, we want the slavers amongst them to suffer the war's costs the most, and we can hit them through their pockets. Plus, any resource they have to put into rebuilding is one they won't be able to channel towards the war. Should they focus on the war, it means there are less slave camps remaining." Seira frowns, deciding to clarify. "Naturally, this would be a separate team than the one responsible for rescuing the slaves."

At Valar's suggestion, she nods. "Right, excellent. Do you suggest I handle it personally, or can we leave that to Sanzha? I want her to get more face to face time with the various powers in preparation of her ascension."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 12:51:56 PM
"That's above my grade, but I'd suggest Sanzha." Valar says after all of that, "If she can afford the time. I'm not aware of how busy she is."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 12:54:51 PM
"There'll be an official announcement at a later date, but it's not a big secret. She'll just have to make the time, or delegate."

Seira checks whether Sanzha and Amaryl have returned, in the meantime. Might as well get this going.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 01:04:25 PM
Both are back.

Go ahead and lay out your plan here real quick, just make sure I grasp it all, and we'll get you rolling on that or move you along, depending if it needs IC time or not.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 01:06:50 PM
Seira first wants to heat how the talks with Zanimoth and the Padisha went. Then, pending on those outcomes, Sanzha will get a new assignment of dealing with Valar's suggestion for the freed slaves.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 01:11:18 PM
Amaryl and Lagann meet with you first, the gnome grunting before saying, "Zanimoth's pursuing his own agenda," he announces, "Striving to make sure what he wants to stay hidden stays hidden."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 01:13:25 PM
"It is, as our compact decrees," Seira responds. "Is part of his agenda aiding us? And if so, is it military aid, political, financial or otherwise?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 01:15:38 PM
"He'll offer aid if you want it," Amaryl speaks up now, "But he'd like a formal request. You need not come, something you wrote will do."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 01:18:44 PM
Seira purses her lips. "While the realm was originally seized by myself, I've made it very clear that the two of us are co-owners,' she tells Amaryl, getting angrier as she goes. "Your wedding ring made it official. And your recent ascension backed it up with your own divine power, rather than just authority. Why wasn't your word enough? I'm... fuck, I'm trying real hard not to be offended on your behalf here!"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 01:26:39 PM
With a gentle voice, "I already gave him one while I was there," Amaryl explains, "He wants both of ours."

Lagann adds in, "I think he wants to hide them, for whatever reasons propel him."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 01:30:48 PM
"Sorry," Seira says, rubbing her forehead. "First the Padisha, then this." She conjures up a scroll and traces letters dimly glowing orange upon it, detailing her formal request for aid against the efreet and their allies. The scrolls wraps itself up and Seira presses her thumb to it, forming a wax seal with her insignia, meant to open only for Zanimoth.

"Please have it delivered over, and handle the details," she requests of Lagann, handing the missive over. "Coordinate with Valar in case Zanimoth's aid is of a military or intelligence sort."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 01:50:13 PM
Lagann takes it and vanishes on the wings of magic.

A moment later Amaryl laughs lightly, "Seira Aryn," she rises, coming over to you, "You are entirely overstressed. You're fortunate there are....secret elven techniques to release stress."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 01:53:23 PM
"People who claim to be our friends are not allowed disrespect you," Seira grumbles, though she lets said stress go rather than work herself into a rant. "Let's see how things went on Sanzha's end, and take a break?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 01:55:06 PM
"Seira," Amaryl says firmly, putting a finger on your lips, "Sanzha can wait just a little longer. Don't you think?" She leans in at that, smiling.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 01:57:22 PM
"Secret elven techniques it is!"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 01:58:02 PM
For a little while, the world really is much better.

Okay, goal with Sanzha?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 01:59:24 PM
In a far better state of mind, Seira seeks to hear from Sanzha and Elle how things went with the Padisha, and whether they have ideas on how to sway the Water King's mind.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 02:05:19 PM
Elle's rather tired-looking, slumping into her chair while Lady Sanzha smiles.

"Something nice, please," Elle requests, yawning deeply.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 02:06:39 PM
Seira is all too happy to show Elle an illusion for all senses of Donald riding Baleruk, distributing rainbow dragon pixie dust everywhere.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 02:08:19 PM
Elle shakes her head and manages, "I meant magic to refresh me. I ended up drinking with a marid lady who enjoys dream water. I'm exhausted."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 02:09:23 PM
Heal and regeneration affect Elle in quick order, as Seira asks, "How's that? Need a more specialized remedy?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 02:14:03 PM
"Ah!" Elle clears her throat, "Much better. Thanks."

Meanwhile Lady Sanzha sits, "Your mood is good. Did Valar do well?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 02:15:14 PM
"Quite well, and my own meeting went exceptionally. I really want to hear how things are on Water to get a clear picture, though."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 02:21:47 PM
"Offically, they're at peace. Unofficially, there's a lot of murmurings about it but the Padisha is stomping down on any that get out of hand," Lady Sanzha says, "No, the Padisha is keeping a grasp on power, in case any fools think this is a sign of weakness."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 02:23:16 PM
"Can we change Istishia's mind, first of all? Do we have a card to play there?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 02:29:16 PM
"Not that I see," This gets a faint frown, "The Water Lord is doing whatever they want to do and the reasons why don't line up with any speculation I could put together. Logically, that means she has reasons, reasons we can't see or that he keeps private. This is outside the power of the Sultan's influence or of any one being on Fire, save perhaps Kossuth. My best guess is that the Elemental Lords have their own reasons for this, or that Istishia sees reasons of her own."

After a beat, "Or, that even he told us the truth and sees any result as a triumph, because Fire will be weakened win or lose. It's entirely possible that if the efreet win or manage a peace, that Water finds some reason or another to declare war while they're still exhausted. It's a cold logic."

Elle adds after that, "I don't think we're going to have much luck engaging this on any level but Istishia's level. Do you think Kossuth, Grumbar or Akadi would lend you council, if you asked?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 02:35:54 PM
"It's not hard for me to get an audience with Kossuth, and I could probably manage with the others as well. But I'd prefer if it they all kept to their neutrality, so I don't see any merits in this. Alright, let's get back to the marid court. Are they interested in helping unofficially, similarly to how Aurora got a few... volunteers, shall we call them, some directly from the court?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 02:44:12 PM
"Some are, but the Padisha's ensuring that the nobles understand that neutral means neutral. She's taking this seriously," Elle says, "Reading between the lines, the Water Lord was firm with her about it. Very firm. Any marid we get will need to be completely disconnected from the court."

That gets Lady Sanzha to smile, "Better yet, not on Water all. Fortunately, people do talk and some of the secrets I know are still worthwhile ones."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 02:46:40 PM
"I'll leave the handling of that up to you, then," Seira tells Sanzha. "Something of more immediate interest is Valar's suggestion that we contact the deities served by some of the slaves his forces managed to free. I would like you to take care of the diplomatic contacts and their repatriation."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 02:59:01 PM
"I can, but I'll need to slow down my prismatic work," Lady Sanzha says, "I'm getting stretched far as it is." Gently tapping her forefinger to the tabletop, "At least while I establish that. It should be faster once proper channels are set up."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 03:07:29 PM
"No, that's unacceptable," Seira responds, frowning. "It's our most important venue of research even without the deal with the Astral reds. What if you delegated more? Omni could take over some of the practical matters and testing for the prismatic research, while you should use Ranbar for contacting other faiths. It does touch upon her duties, while helping establish you as the face of the Cauldron as much as Amaryl or I. I don't mind one of us doing that, but I do want you to... hmm, remind Creation of your resurgence through exciting meetings?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 03:12:28 PM
Lady Sanzha titters, "I do need something bigger," she agrees, "Some sort of coup, though my name is getting out there. It's been enough to remind them that I exist and will not be forgotten, and more importantly, has helped me make contacts."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 03:16:27 PM
"By forming the connections with nonevil deities and becoming the one from the Cauldron they contact when they need us is a good start. Once you have more time you could network properly, and then the research breakthrough will put you on the map. All we need to do is replicate it safely, and more than once. Once the two of us manage to get the Astral dragons fully onboard while upgrading them to prismatics, we'll rival the gith in power. That sort of thing will make waves."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 03:18:16 PM
"Mm." Lady Sanzha says, "Still, I'd like something to make a splash."

"Something big?" Elle asks back, "Got any ideas?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 03:23:08 PM
"Why not ascend?" Seira asks her curiously. "You know just how it feels, which is the part Amaryl was struggling with. You should also have the prerogative, given that I haven't heard of a single case where Ao rescinded his blessing once given. You could piggyback on the more generic prayers I receive for the Cauldron." As she keeps speaking, it doesn't seem as farfetched as it might have. "The Seldarine would support you, and furthermore, you've been thinking about what you'd like to stand for ever since our visit with them, haven't you? Oh! In fact, this is a good time for a tactless question. Why not ally closer with the heavens while you're at it? I can't say I ever noticed any aversion from you for the idea."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 03:34:11 PM
"Just like that? No drama to it, no dramatics?" Lady Sanzha' smiling now, "Gauche. Showy. Scene stealing. To grow..." A pause here, a flash. A sense of connection, a sense of power. A sense of Lady Sanzha, all around you.

Node update for Sanzha, go read and let me know that you have.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 03:38:34 PM
"There'll be drama," Seira tells her with a wry grin. "You're causing it. As for the act itself, why? Your place is here, and that won't change no matter the theatrics. Or do you want an anguished declaration of some sort?"

read
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 03:40:46 PM
"I need time to maximize everything," Lady Sanzha says, "Doing so will not be trivial with a war going on. I have the barest dregs of power left from my time as the Padisha, I am not certain how difficult it will be to nurture them further. Plus naturally, it really must be done right."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 03:41:40 PM
"Pick a symbolic moment of success or self-discovery, then," Seira agrees. "We're all with you, you know?"
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 03:56:15 PM
Lady Sanzha begins to speak but stops, frowning.

You focus.

Amid the prayers and cries of your faithful, you hear it - a death cry. Marluth, a simple merchant dealing in wood, feels the dagger pierce his heart. In a moment he is aflame, a wordless scream as much his final breath as a prayer to you as he falls in his inn room just outside Valandia.

Balmuria. Cries of alarm, cries for magic and the Guard. Your temple there bursts aflame, a column of powerful spell-fire exploding there, red and blue, erupting up the front. The mythal twists, already being drawn on to fight the blaze.

Arad. Your name is screamed by a young man burning, a sudden burst of fire lightning his home alight. Alan, a merchant's son who just began to pray to you two days ago, barely known and yet crying for you as his flesh cooks.

Chillander's land, a dirt road. A wagon drawn by horses, a half elf driving. He looks down at his chest, a seared hole in it, a flash of red a moment ago. "H-help..." he murmurs. Breeze, a Waukeenite in the past twenty years who also pays the Seldarine homage as well as you.

Kesse. The Shrine of the Golden Dream, a simple worshiper outside. Dann, a poor man who works hard to be better, to make a better life. A strangled prayer as his insides cook, flames erupting from his mouth, nose and from rending tears across his body.

'Seira!' Amaryl's voice in your mind, 'They're attacking ours!'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 04:13:45 PM
'Amaryl, I'm leaving Pallanth to you. Bring him here and heal him!' Seira responds to her wife, presenting Breeze's image to her. For her part, Seira focuses on all the events before zeroing in on Marianne and Lyris. 'You have to go now. Efreet are attacking the Prime Material,' she tells the pair, opening a portal to Marluth's inn outside Valandia.

Seira catches his soul, even as she manifests her will across Arad at the same time. She seizes the flames consuming Alan's house by divine will, and the flames shift color to burn a bright gold, harmful only to those of impure heart! The good and earnest, instead, find comfort and healing in her flames.

Oberuth receives a vision of the burning temple in Balmuria, albeit no transport. The message itself is clear -- the efreet have escalated the war, and brought it to his home.

The Shrine of the Golden Dream is different, for there Seira's avatar manifests in person. Her presence immediately serves to clench the flames consuming Dann, even as she grants him regeneration to help restore his failing flesh.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 04:42:25 PM
No reply from Amaryl, her attention surely turned on her task.

'Busy! They're trying to assassinate us!' Marianne's voice is light, 'What a lovely afternoon distraction!'

Through the portal as you feel the mists rising up as you go for Marluth's soul, the nature of the Well of Souls rising up to take what it was created to do, a moment where you could concede to it or intervene nonetheless. At the same time, a blur in the shadows, something vanishing on the wings of magic, gone.

As you focus on Arad the flames shift, Alan's screams slowly ceasing as your magic works.

Oberuth is moving, you can fee it from your brush of will against his - and reality shimmers around him, seeming to part without parting, space moving without being space.

As you appear before the shrine in avatar form, the flames cease at your command. And yet you see another there. A faceless dogai, the last image of it, bowing mockingly to you. The streets of the city are hectic, and yet cries of alarm are going up and more.

There you are. Try and keep up as I instruct you, godling. How many of you and yours will burn as tinder in the fire before this day is gone? I grow tired of your presumptions to be anything but wood to burn in my flames.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 04:51:40 PM
One of Seira's focuses shifts to Laurenal from Marianne and Lyris. If she is not under attack, Seira will send her to Valandia's outskirts. And if she is, Seira won't let her chosen on this world fight alone.

Her other focus withdraws temporarily from Arad, sending all her faithful on the Prime Material of either clerical or martial inclination visions of efreet and devils striking at people, along with a sense of warning.

Do not be coy. You know where I live, and are always welcome to come and die at my doorstep.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 04:52:56 PM
Also, Seira intervenes and catches the soul as implied earlier.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 04:55:59 PM
Laurenal is not under attack as you catch the soul of Marluth, a sense of someone watching you openly, unhidden. Helm's gaze is on you in that place.

Marianne and Lyris are fighting in front of their manor home, back to back. Half a dozen masked warriors lie dead, another dozen or so to go. Spells are flung, darts flying and rapiers thrusting. It's chaos that you can see unfold before your eyes.

Then welcome to the inferno, Seira.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 05:03:02 PM
Laurenal is thus shifted to the inn with the command to investigate and secure the area. As one of Seira's faithful she is already up to speed, after all. And once it feels safe, Seira could release Marluth's soul into her care. Helm should have no problems with her actions since she's not poaching, and hopefully understands the situation enough that if he has objections, he will wait for a calmer time to voice them as well.

Another focus is finally on the fire in Balmuria, and Seira decides to make a public stand there as well. Those flames turn golden, harming the wicked and healing the innocent.

Seira's avatar ensures that Dann has recovered physically from his ordeal and strides outside to look for trouble. Proper recovery will take more effort than she can spend at present, so the warm reassurance of her pride in him would have to do until dedicated personnel is able to take over.

My avatar has a bunch of stuff via divine modes of perception, true seeing, greater arcane sight and sensual blessing. If I see any dogai or attackers, I'll act. Similar for any other trouble like wounded people or fires.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 05:20:17 PM
On Balmuria you assault the flames and feel it, a will opposing yours. Even as you see Oberuth emerge from the flaming entrance, tossing coughing worshipers out, going back in, unphased.

Divine rank check.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 05:21:10 PM
21:20 <CC> roll 1d20+2
21:20 <Penuche> CC invokes Penuche's magic: < 4 > [d20=2]
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 05:36:31 PM
> roll 1d20+10
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 27 > [d20=17]


You feel it. The will of Imix opposing you, burning bright as the flames refuse to relent. His will is overwhelming, an inferno as you dimly see Oberuth step from nowhere, bringing out several more innocents, unburnt by the flames.

Do you see? You are nothing to me. You are less than even my misbegotten son. Cry as what you care about burns to ash.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 05:42:03 PM
Seira's true self focuses on the temple, opening portals for those inside to deposit them to safety. She does take a moment to contact Waukeen, saying, Imix set my temple in Balmuria on fire, among other things. Could you help me kick him out?

As her avatar sees nothing needing further action out in Kesse, she teleports over to Marianne and Lyris to put an end to what remaining assassins there still are. Conversing with Imix is pointless, and he's so much obviously stronger there's not even a shame in losing out a contest of divine power to him.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 05:54:38 PM
That overgrown camp fire pushes too far. Lliira, Sune, Sharess, Sulia, to me!

The assassins are mostly finished at this point - both are wounded but up.

CEASE THIS, IMIX. War and Compete against Seira as you please, but you come close to violating what is ordained about this city.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 06:00:35 PM
That won't do, so Seira's innate magical ability heals the pair even as she puts down any remaining resistance as only an angry dragon in tight quarters can.

A brief thought is spared to either taunt Imix or thank Waukeen, but Seira judges it wiser to hold her tongue for now. Rather, she asks Marianne and Lyris after securing the assailants to prevent their escape, "Oberuth needs help at my temple in Balmuria, I've got Valandia covered. Can you go?"

Judging this to be a good time, Seira also entrusts Laurenal with Marluth's soul. His body is miraculously restored, and she leaves it to her priestess to bring him back and help him deal with the trauma of the assault.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 06:08:29 PM
Done and done easily enough, as you focus slips to the conflict. There is a moment - many wills against one, before the flames die down, becoming normal. Imix's presence fades, pushed back and gone.

To be mechanically clear, he didn't choose to face all of Brightwater down. He's aggressive, not dumb. So no rank checks required.

We'll sort out the rest shortly.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 06:14:44 PM
If Marianne and Lyris are agreeable, Seira will transfer the two of them over. For her own part, she will appear in Balmuria's skies in her dragon form, and attempt to use regular magic to get the fire to go out. She might have a fire affinity, but the Cauldron's specialty in elemental harmony means Seira doesn't neglect the other elements, water among them.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 06:18:09 PM
Below, the citizens of Balmuria watch Seira quench the flames. Water pours down to stop it, our temple charred and burnt, if intact. Damaged without any doubt, but not down yet.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 06:22:54 PM
The people harmed find it easier to recover, rejuvenated just a bit more. And, perhaps, encouraged by her presence?

Seira doesn't linger. After Balmuria, she repeats her actions at every point of attack, her primary concern the well-being of the people. Buildings can and will be rebuilt, but if anyone is left suffering from this attack, she cannot in good conscience leave without healing their wounds.

Her final stop is Valandia, and following that routine Seira disappears only to step across distance and emerge near Laurenal in her usual half-elf form. Once there, she silently observes Marluth.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 06:44:50 PM
Marluth is asleep, resting. Laurenal looks up and shakes her head, "He's recovering in his way," is what is said, softly.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 06:47:22 PM
'Mom, are you okay? What's happening?' A simple sending from Emily in the meantime.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 06:50:59 PM
"I charge you to help those affected recover," she tells Laurenal, bestowing her with perfect memory of the attacks. It would burden her, no doubt, but also firm her resolve. "Our project, too, will need to advance. I will have Elle Stronger stop by to start on the redesign of the transportation network, though the design itself will be yours to alter from the pattern we've come up with."

She sighs. "This reminds me of darker days, when the Dark Six attacked this world. We'll need the support structure to reach one another swiftly in case of attack more than ever, now."
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 06:51:57 PM
Laurenal bows her head, silent with those memories, as they flood her mind. Her hands tighten but she says nothing.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 06:53:20 PM
'The war is expanding,' Seira responds to her daughter. 'It is as you've seen. Imix has struck at my Prime of birth. Do not be complacent, as we have plenty of enemies and even more opportunists. You'll need to decide whether you're participating in the greater conflicts of our age or staying safe on that Prime sooner rather than later, Emily.'

"I'm sorry," Seira's avatar tells Laurenal. "My direct involvement past this would likely make things worse. Until Oberuth, Marianne and Lyris succeed in their ultimate task, this world is vulnerable. I will do what I can to help, but focusing on the greater war to keep our enemies occupied is my best option at present." She places her hand on Laurenal's shoulder to comfort her. "Regardless. I'll be there for you if you call on me. Remember that."

She disappears with that, returning home.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 06:55:26 PM
'It's not like that,' Emily fires back, 'This is important, Mom. Don't talk about it like that. Io's strengthened Alyssa for a reason, and I'm going to see what it was, and why I'm gaining these blessings.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 06:59:19 PM
'Io's reason for action is facing down Shar,' Seira states. 'It is also what I have trained you for. As you can see, your mother and I were not the only ones concerned over this problem, and we've all been working towards it in our own ways. However, darling, remember that power never exists for its own sake. Towards which goal are you gaining blessings? What are you doing with them, as you grow ever stronger?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 07:00:42 PM
'To help Alyssa and Jarem. I like them,' she fires back, voice calmer now. 'They're my friends. Would you have left the Crimson Guard when they needed you?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 07:03:59 PM
'You misunderstood me,' Seira tells her with a sigh. 'I'm not telling you to leave them. If you believe you are in her orbit to do good, that things happened for this higher purpose, then guide her towards it. And if you decide to bunker down on Prime together, then do so and keep your heads down. This war will only grow and become more ruthless, and you no longer have the luxury of traveling to Brightwater for this or that, but staying out of planar affairs. Do you understand me now?'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 07:05:27 PM
'Oh.' Emily sends in a small voice.

'Oh.' She repeats, sounding embarrassed, like the time you found her with her hand literally in the cookie jar.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 11, 2018, 07:14:10 PM
'Don't worry about it,' Seira attempts to reassure her. 'Misunderstandings happen. I try to clear them if I suspect them, so as long as you remember to do the same it's all good.' She pauses, before deciding to add, 'Tell Alyssa that this choice is one she would have needed to make regardless of your presence in her life. She can blame Io and planar gossips for that. It's not your fault. Avoid giving the planar rogues gallery loopholes for action against you if you're staying out of planar affairs.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 11, 2018, 10:10:55 PM
'For now, I am. It's just...I feel like I'm supposed to be here. Maybe it's Io, maybe it's someone else, maybe it's me. But something wants me to be here, Mom.' Emily sends back.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 12, 2018, 12:04:12 AM
'I wish you luck. As a final warning, try to avoid taxing magics like wish or miracle during these tense times unless absolutely necessary, and in the direct company of your friends.'
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 12, 2018, 12:32:40 PM
'I will. Love you, Mom,' Emily sends.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 12, 2018, 12:34:12 PM
'Your mother and I love you too,' Seira assures Emily with an accompanying mental smile. With the connection cut, however, she dispatches her avatar to the dungeon where Alyssa said she was empowered by an aspect of Io.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 12, 2018, 12:36:19 PM
Do you want to do that or sort out the issues related to that attack right now, Cor?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 12, 2018, 12:38:34 PM
I want to do it, yes. From my understanding, the attack has stopped at present and my mortal followers are handling the immediate aftermath. I don't want to make any reckless decisions to strike back immediately.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 12, 2018, 12:45:29 PM
Okay. Quick clarification in case I forgot between yesterday and today: Going alone or...?
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Corwin on December 12, 2018, 12:47:26 PM
My avatar will appear in that dungeon, alone, and I will try to see if I can tell any sign/hint/magical signature of Io even though it's years later. I'll try to rewatch the events with some emulation of a spell that sees past events. I'll check whether Io or his aspect were 'sealed' here all along, or if he simply chose to manifest at random. All the good stuff.
Title: Re: Diplomatic aftermath
Post by: Anastasia on December 12, 2018, 12:51:07 PM
Congratulations, this reveals a new thread.