022.2 Demedais

[Corwin]

[20:13] <Soda_Vampire> -----
[20:16] <Soda_Vampire> So the day passes. The city is still in relative chaos, hustling, bustling and busy. On meeting Commander Oberuth has he oversees trainnees feverntly practicing lance and arrowwork, "Shamal and Seira are investigating a lead underwater. While they do...go, feel out Malmuth. Officially, you're an ambassador over a mutually difficult and urgent situation."
[20:17] <Demedais> "And unofficially?" Demedais asks wryly.
[20:22] <Soda_Vampire> "Don't make promises, just encourage them as need be and feelt hem out. If things don't work out, leave." HIs words are crisp and to the point, as he goes and passes you a letter. "This is written by me and signed, it's a letter of intentions. It basically relies on our nation's good faith to ensure you are who yous ay you are. Don't lose it no matter what."
[20:25] * Demedais nods seriously. "Very well, then. I shall handle this posthaste." The letter is slipped into a pocket in Demedais' light coat as he summons Horse. "If I learn anything, I shal let you know as soon as I can."
[20:31] <Soda_Vampire> So Demedais departs! The gates are double manned with lookouts, all saluting as Demedais departs towards the south. On he goes, as...OOC - Doing anything noteworthy as you travel?
[20:33] <Demedais> OOC: He's attempting to regrab that vision if he feels it within his grasp/praying decently often as he's worried as hell. Not much otherwise.
[20:36] <Soda_Vampire> The first day's travel is without incident. Only a few pretty peasant girls are glimpsed as you pass a few farms, alluring but well off path.  THe second day sees you into Malmuth, beginning to travel in earnest...(More)
[20:36] <Soda_Vampire> roll 1d100
[20:36] * Hatbot --> "Soda_Vampire rolls 1d100 and gets 99."12 [1d100=99]
[20:40] <Soda_Vampire> In the third day of travel, the road ahead is taken up! A small but orderly procession heads your way. Malmuthian soldiers, two pike and standard bearers supported by a score of soldiers behind them. They surround a carraige, of blue and waving colors. They do not look menacing, but they are keeping a very precise, military formation to it all.
[20:42] * Demedais halts in the road, eyeing the procession as he dismounts warily.
[20:44] <Soda_Vampire> "Aside," the front two call, "Ambassador Almand passes by, on official urgent business." They gesture aside of the road, waving Demedais  out of the way.
[20:45] * Demedais leads Horse to the side of the road, out of the way. "May I inquire the business that calls him to Balmuria at this time?" Demedais responds.
[20:51] <Soda_Vampire> The front bearers start to pass, "That is of no concern," one replies, stiff and formal.
[20:53] <Demedais> "One would think you would treat an emissiary of Balmuria with more respect." Demedais notes.
[20:54] <Soda_Vampire> One of the standard bearers stops, holding up a hand. "Prove your words," he challenges, looking at you. "On what business do you enter our realm?" The various soldiers are on horseback, many and all looking the lone traveller now.
[20:58] <Demedais> "I enter Malmuth regarding an incident that occured at our southeast gate, which I was hoping Valandia in specific could shed light upon." Demedais replied, drawing the letter from his coat and flipping it open. "Proof from Commander Oberuth of the Crimson Guard, if you so desire it." Demedais holds out the letter with the words facing the guard, an open invitation to read it without letting go of it himself.
[21:02] <Soda_Vampire> The guard looks at it,b efore holding his hand up. "Company, halt!" The standard bearer nods curtly, going back to the carraige. The door half opens, words exchanged with someone inside. "As a measure of good faith, Ambassador Almand asks what your business is here."
[21:03] <Soda_Vampire> The standard bearer calls back, nearly shouting so that his voice carries back.
[21:05] <Demedais> "My business regards a dragon." Demedais says slowly. "One that seems to have awoken recently. We were made aware of Valandia possibly having been approached as well; thus why I was sent to contact Valandia regarding it."
[21:06] <Soda_Vampire> This gets a few guards to look at you, as there is more talk in the carraige. The standard bearer turns, "Captain Lord Almand, Protector of the Southern Reaches and Invested with the Ambassadorial Trust of His Majesty consents to see you. Come."
[21:09] <Demedais> "This is greatly appreciated." Demedais nods, and turns briefly to dismiss Horse before turning and following the standard bearer or whomever is guiding him to the carraige, not wishing to approach it himself and seem too aggressive.
[21:10] <Soda_Vampire> This gets some looks, but most of the soldiers don't react overly much. As you approach the carraige, the standard bearer speaks calmly. "Lord Almand wishes to see your letter first with his own eyes, however," he speaks, holding his hand out.
[21:12] * Demedais hesitates, before shrugging mentally - if this man doesn't believe him, he will when they reach Balmuria - and handing the paper to the standard bearer.
[21:13] <Soda_Vampire> The letter ist aken inside for perhaps a half minute, before it's passed back out. "Enter," A calm, civlized voice calls, "Seargant Grants, command the soldiers to stand at normal alert until I instruct otherwise."
[21:13] <Soda_Vampire> The standard bearer salutes towards the  carraige and nods, barking orders out.
[21:14] * Demedais accepts the letter and folds it back into his pocket before stepping into the carraige and attempting a bow to the person inside.
[21:16] <Soda_Vampire> A man with brown hair sits there, grey at the temples. He wears plain gold earrings, eyes alert and engaging as you enter. He wears a plain blue robe, unusually unadored. "Ambassador Almand," he offers his hand, "You are, Ambassador...?"
[21:19] <Demedais> "I am Lieutenant Demedais, acting ambassador for Balmuria." Demedais says, slightly aware of being outranked. "I hope today finds you well."
[21:21] <Soda_Vampire> "Well enough as our current situation allows," he smiles wryly, patting the cusioned seat opposite him, soft and silken. "Please, sit." The carraige inside is big, enough to stand easily and enough seat space to sit six. "I suspect we may have a mutual problem."
[21:23] * Demedais bows again, seating himself. "Indeed, although problem may be far too... kind of a word." Demedais grinned slightly. "Having stared it straight in the eye, I'd say that this is perhaps nothing short of a disaster."
[21:25] <Soda_Vampire> "Yes, yes it is," he says, then sighs and rubs the bridge of his nose, "I'll be direct and honest. This blue dragon has come demanding tribute, and spoke of punishing us and the  'other' bothersome humans, since we bear blame for waking it."
[21:25] <Soda_Vampire> After a pause, looking up with a slight shadow over his face, "I assume that you are the 'other' pests it mentioned?"
[21:28] <Demedais> "Indeed." Demedais nods, frowning slightly as he shook his head. "And while we're investigating multiple possible solutions to this problem, we honestly have little desire to fight the thing and even less to give in to its capricious demands."
[21:31] <Soda_Vampire> "Our position as well." Speaking with a succinctness, he pauses after that to sit back. "ACcepting it's demands are not a viable option. This irritation needs to be eradicated or contained."
[21:40] <Demedais> "Indeed." Demedais nods. "I believe the general consensus in Balmuria is the same." After a moment of thought, "On which day did the dragon visit?" he broaches.
[21:43] <Soda_Vampire> "3 days ago - it came from the north, the direction of Balmuria," he notes, meeting the gaze of Demedais. "About the same for you?"
[21:49] <Demedais> "4 days ago, during the night. It came to the southeastern gates, approaching under the cover of darkness; we're not sure where it comes from specifically, but from what we've gathered it lairs in the Galkass Mountains."
[21:51] <Soda_Vampire> "Yes. Well then..." he pauses a moment, "Are you going to come with us to Balmuria? There seems little point to you continuing to Valandia now."
[21:54] <Demedais> "Indeed. I shall come back with you; Commander Oberuth will be able to give you a far more detailed account of what we know; I was dispatched the morning after we saw the dragon, and thus perhaps do not have the clearest view of the situation." Demedais affirms. "I'l
[21:55] <Demedais> OOC: Scratch the "I'l.
[21:59] <Soda_Vampire> With a nod, ALmand goes to the carraige door. "Continue on to Balmuria, as fast as a march as the men can manage," he instructs, before closing the door. Within moments the carraige begins to move, coming along. "This matter is indeed difficult. A pity for your city; I've heard it's been blessed with unexpected ways of growth."
[22:12] <Demedais> "Indeed." Demedais nods as he shifts slightly. "It was a shock for me to come back after five years and see how the city's managed to pull it together. Its trade with Malmuth, the Elvish lands and the Fiefdoms have all greatly benefited it."
[22:14] <Soda_Vampire> "It's a daring feat," Almand goes on, on you with a slight smile. "The elves refrain from trade with almost all that are not elves."
[22:16] <Demedais> "I'm not sure how our traders manage it; I was not even aware the elves spoke to anyone who wasn't elvish until I came back to Balmuria."
[22:17] <Soda_Vampire> "It's a shock," Almand murmurs with his own smile, "But perhaps not, for I hear your Crimson Guard has one with elven blood in it?"
[22:20] <Demedais> "Yes, we do." Demedais affirms. "If contact were to be opened with up, I suppose it makes sense that she's managed it. To be honest, if I had met her in almost any other situation I'd find it hard to believe she was a fighter, but she's proved herself admirably,"
[22:21] <Soda_Vampire> "The most unassuming ones are the most deadly. That's the first lesson of statecraft," he chuckles warmly, "I've heard of her myself. Not always the most glowing terms, but her competence is beyond reproach."
[22:23] * Demedais nods affably, refraining from adding much more but simply watching the man. OOC: Does the carraige have windows?
[22:24] <Soda_Vampire> OOC: Yes. You can look out at the countrysie if you want.
[22:24] <Soda_Vampire> *Side
[22:25] * Demedais also does a bit of that, not feeling comfortable in staring at the man while discussion is not going on.
[22:27] <Soda_Vampire> The hours roll by, a night passing. The food's good at least and it's hard to argue about riding in a carraige that barely even feels the bumps. Almand seems content to be quiet at first, but on the next midday, "Ambassador," he begins.
[22:28] <Demedais> "Yes?" Demedais replies affably despite being interrupted amid a silent prayer.
[22:31] <Soda_Vampire> "I heard the troops talking of a vanishing horse you rode yesterday," he begins, "Is Balmuria once again graced with a spellcaster or a cleric of the Gods?"
[22:35] <Demedais> "I am a paladin of Helm, sir, yes." Demedais nods. "I had not meant to disturb your men, but leaving it her would have both felt odd to me, and seemed odd to your men to watch the horse follow them only to disappear back to his plane of existence after some time."
[22:38] <Soda_Vampire> "There is no need to apologise," he allows, holding up his hand. "Very well then..." He seems content with that, going silent now.
[22:40] * Demedais nods and resumes his prayer, folding up his legs beneath him carefully so that he doesn't get dirt onto the seats.
[22:46] <Demedais> "While I am thinking of it, sir..." Demedais inquires as he watches the sun begin to rise on the third day, "How does Valandia fare these days? I had hoped to visit it on my way back to Balmuria earlier this year, but obligations pulled me back faster than I had hoped."
[22:50] <Soda_Vampire> "Valandia is well, until our draconic friend came forth," The answer comes easily, as he turns to you. His smile is faint, yet his eyes are sharp, looking into yours. "As the largest city to the northwestern Malmuthian border now and it's trade routes, it's growing to acommodate that."
[22:55] <Demedais> "I'd imagine so. In this regard, Balmuria and Valandia are twin cities, I would think. Perhaps this cooperation will help our respective lands work together even better in the future... but of course, we have to handle the dragon, first." Demedais chuckles. "Desires for the future must cede way to the realities of the present..."
[22:56] <Soda_Vampire> "The dragon is the most pressing concern," he agrees, thinking. "...do you know where it lives at all? Havet here been search parties sent?"
[22:58] <Demedais> "As I said, our best guess at the time of our departure was somewhere within the Galkass Mountains; the half-elf you spoke of theorized that it would likely be rather close to town. If Valandia, too, has been approached, then I would think it fair to assume that the dragon's lair is about equally close to both our towns..."
[23:01] <Soda_Vampire> "Somewhere on the eastern side of the Galkass mountains." Finishing that thought with a cautious nod, "One that travels by air can make better time than on land, but even so, it's best tos tart where we have reason to show us. Frankly...if we find it's lair, we can attempt to kill it in one swift stroke."
[23:03] <Demedais> "If we can catch it sleeping. Something tells me fighting this beast on its own ground would be something ranging from a nightmare to suicide, depending on how much firepower we can bring to bear on it." Demedais notes.
[23:09] <Soda_Vampire> "If only..." Almand smiles blandly,  "Still, one step at a time."
[23:10] <Demedais> "Indeed."
[23:14] <Soda_Vampire> After a short pause, the air growing peaceful again, "There is another as well, Shamal. How is she, for her deeds travel as well."
[23:18] <Demedais> "She fares well, too; she has kept busy working with the Guard." Demedais says. "I admittedly have not talked to either of them much recently; my duties at the Temple and their duties elsewhere have kept us all occupied on seperate paths."
[23:22] <Soda_Vampire> "Yes, yes." He pauses at this, seemign to the matter hang in the air, like heat ripples in the muggy summer afternoon. "It is a shame, perhaps."
[23:23] <Demedais> "What is, sir?" Demedais inquires, having lost the man somehow conversation-wise.
[23:25] <Soda_Vampire> "Tell me," he goes on, voice relaxing. He smiles, meeting Demedais's eyes, luring them in with his own. "Duty is a strong thing, but often heartless, is it not?"
[23:28] * Demedais eyes the man carefully. "It depends, in the end, on the man performing the duty. Some perform motions withouth their heart behind it, and thus their actions ring hollow; but some are capable of putting themselves fully into their tasks, and thus show their compassion and their determination in their acts."
[23:29] <Demedais> OOC: May I roll a sense motive here? (That's what the eyeing was supposed to imply)
[23:30] <Soda_Vampire> OOC - Sure, by all means.
[23:30] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11
[23:30] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 and gets 17."12 [1d20=6]
[23:32] <Soda_Vampire> Demedais can't really pin anything on him. "I know a man like that - his heart was hollow. It is not a good thing to possess." Smiling slightly, but a distant, moody smile. This shifts into blandness, opaque eomtions. "You do not look like a person of that stature."
[23:35] <Demedais> "I strive not to be; however, for me, it ends up being a problem of conflicting duties, if anything." Demedais nods. "I have seen men like you describe; bodies going through the motion, but no purpose beyond the moment. What differentiates us then....?"
[23:45] <Soda_Vampire> "Desire? Will? Lust for life?" The last is said with a faint smile, almost laughing. "There's no easy answer there, I confess. But for those that reach it, there's many things in this world worth it. If one is determined and skilled, they can arness the primal forces with magic and be one of the rare elite, or become a trader wealthy enough to build a kingdom, or a travller who has seen sights only the Gods do."
[23:52] * Demedais nods and shakes his head. "I ask not what differentiates us from humans that seek not to use their capabilities, but what would differentiate us from, say, goblinkind, at that point? What even gave us this desire for more than what we originally had?" After a pause, "I have no answers, either; all I know is that much of humanity seems content to let everything lie latent. Balmuria is an exception; many there focus
[23:52] <Demedais> focus on improvement, and while ambition and pride accompany such thoughts.... so do good things, I've seen."

[Corwin]

[17:34] <Kotono> "Balmuria isn't the only exception," Almand notes as Demedais speaks, "There are a few places that understand this; a few places that grasp that simple and important fact." He pauses again at that, seeming to savor his words, a bland smile on his face.
[17:37] <Demedais> "I did not mean to imply otherwise; Balmuria is simply the one I have observed myself." Demedais says smoothly. "There are probably plenty of cities I do not know of - United Baronies and Malmuth, and even beyond - that have that spark."
[17:44] <Kotono> "Mmm." Lord Almand looks out the window, a hand resting under his chin. "It's good to see that. There's so little spark otherwise." Out the window is a plain farmstead, unremarkable save for a few pretty peasant girls in view, taking eggs in from the barn. "Everyone needs farms, but yet, do you know if those people ever even think of what lies beyond their plot of land?"
[17:47] <Demedais> "Some do; and some even manage to act on their wishes, in some form or another." Demedais nods. "Others want nothing more than that plot of land... and yet their eyes sometimes burn the brightest of all."
[17:51] <Kotono> "As much as a chained animal can," Almand banters back, as you pass by. The girls turn and stare at the carraige, one even waving. "There's little good in a spark that burns out in the same patch of charred land it was born in."
[17:55] <Demedais> "Do you truly believe that?" Demedais replies, looking at him. "You know of leagues of land, no doubt; you've probably journeyed across seas and mountains in your capacity as ambassador. Yet how much of the land do you truly know? Could you tell me in which section of soil their crops will grow the best this year, what to use to make them larger? Do you know the times to harvest and replant each seed?" (More)
[17:58] <Demedais> "You have surrendered your chance for intimate knowledge of a land for the ability to wander - and I would agree with you. Yet others would not; they are at their best when stable, not traveling with their backs to the wind. Just as you or I could not handle a farm life, by our very nature, so can most of them not deal with a life that forces them to journey. This is not something to condemn them for; happenstance of birt
[17:59] <Demedais> "happenstance of birth, nothing more. For those who put their hearts into it, this is their duty; and you may know it simply by their eyes."
[18:00] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[18:00] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 15."12 [1d20=9]
[18:04] <Kotono> Almand's eyes half lid close during the speech, but he does turn and face you. When it's over, a bland smile appears no his face again. "You speak well, paladin. Yet...yet, we both know that one chained to one piece of land is powerless to grow past it's roaming range. If that is so, that we are the rare few...then we are the lucky ones."
[18:09] <Demedais> "Again, it depends on what you desire from life; for those who are bound from the earth, if they have the will, then they can learn infinitely more about the land, and achieve their own wisdom. We must obtain ours by traveling. It does not feel too different to me." Demedais shakes his head. "Besides. Passion for your duty and the will and heart to carry it out are all I would argue you need. The simplistic growth of a ta
[18:09] <Demedais> The simplistic growth of a tall blade of grass or the complex branches of a tree; both are growth; there is purpose and beauty in both."
[18:13] <Kotono> "There in lies the problem. No matter how capable a blade of grass is, or a peasant farmer, they only see the same things, the same experiences. Repitition is no subtitute for true learning from many sources." As the ride goes on, you can hear the talking of soldiers on ride, casual conversations occasionally filtering in. "You would be nothing but a farmer if you chose that life as a child. Instead..."
[18:17] <Kotono> Instead..." Looking otu that window again, thoughtful and reserved, "You are worth a hundred farmers."
[18:23] <Demedais> "To whom? Another farmer or another nobleman?" Demedais notes. "Besides, lose but one farmer and a city grows hungrier. Lose a hundred and a city may starve, even if slowly. Lose a guardian and a city grows weaker; lose a hundred and the city may fall. The only difference is in the work each does to support the country."
[18:26] <Kotono> "To a kingdom. Farmers are plain, uninspired, common. You are a gem that is not. Worth fighting for, worth bleeding for, worth everything. Without champions, a city is as nude as a warrior without armor. ...this si af act we're being reminded of." Lord Almand chuckles, but a wary, tired one. "Our current difficulties remind of this fact."
[18:29] * Demedais examines man, attempting to figure out why the emphasis on himself... "And yet my use is specialized, uncommon. It takes the farmer, tailor, and builder to create conditions so that I am prepared to fight; I have no trade skills myself; situations like this are what I protect them from in return, but that does not diminish that which helped create me."
[18:32] <Kotono> OOC: Sense motive, sure.
[18:32] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 come on
[18:32] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 come on and gets 23."12 [1d20=12]
[18:35] <Kotono> "They're simply the support and dressing for us," he says dismissively, as the time flits by. BUt yet, he seems to ponder those words a little time, going silent.
[18:37] * Demedais smiles softly and prays, attempting to focus himself inward for the preparations that will be needed in the days ahead...
[18:39] <Kotono> OOC - Make one more will save, would you?
[18:40] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6
[18:40] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 and gets 16."12 [1d20=10]

[Corwin]

[17:39] <Kotono> "Agreed," Almand smiles dimly, face as bland and polite as oatmeal. "Our immediate instinct is to propose cooperation on this matter. King Ferdi has sent word that I may negotiate such in good faith for Malmuth."
[17:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:40] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) has joined #evildunes
[17:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:40] * Kotono sets mode: +v Hatbot
[17:40] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:40] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 20."12 [1d20=17]
[17:40] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[17:42] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth scowls a few moments, but goes on. "We can agree to that. What do you propose beyond the basic concept?"
[17:42] <Kotono> roll 1d20+3
[17:42] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+3 and gets 12."12 [1d20=9]
[17:43] <Kotono> Almand closes his eyes a moment, blowing out his breath before he smiles. A little curved smile, "I propose that if the location of it's lair, we consider a preemptive, overwhelming strike with all our might. The dragon dies before it can come back and impose it's might on our cities."
[17:47] <Kotono> Oberuth is silent after that, face calm. "We will consider such matters," he allows, but stands. "Demedais, if you would?" he says, "We will return momentarily, Almand."
[17:48] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais follows him out, face turning to a scowl once he's sure Almand can't see it.
[17:49] <Kotono> So the two head into the hall, and a little away from the room. Once you're out, "The situation has changed somewhat," Commander Oberuth's face shows a few licks ofw orry, "Seira's situation is difficult, and Shamal..."
[17:50] <Demedais> "Shamal has what? Is she alright?" Demedais asks, brows furrowed.
[17:52] <Kotono> "On going to the aquatic elven village, they found a portal to Oolu's realm, the...Plane of Water, I believe?" The commander seems to scowl at all the magical words. "On exploring the immediate area, they chose to return, as the portal was not stable. While Countess STronger and Seira came back, Shamal...did not. She has not been seen since, her fate is unknown."
[17:54] * Demedais closes his eyes. "By Helm..." he mutters, shaking his head. "Still, if she is alive, I've no doubt she'll figure out a way back. Either way." Demedais opens his eyes. "We have to figure out a way to defeat the dragon. Did they learn anything underwater before the mishap or whatever it was?"
[17:57] <Kotono> "They're attempting to rescue Shamal and find Oolu, from what I understand. Some lore behind it...but we can discuss that at a later time." A breath out, "The current situation is more important. I'm opposed to a direct strike; I fear we simply don't have the resources to penetrate the mountain and it's defenses, then defeat Kondrux."
[18:00] <Demedais> "Seconded. Doubly foolish since from the description Pollyanna gave, there was apparently only one easily accessible entrance, and the dragon will be sure to watch that." Demedais nods. "Pulling it out and somehow ensuring it cannot act from there seems a wiser bet."
[18:04] <Kotono> "Agreed. But we need to see what they're willing to offer. Has he shown any information to you on that?"A nod as well, before starting to smile, a rather unhappy smile. "I rather doubt it, the man's a trickster and a thief."
[18:06] <Demedais> "I declined to inquire, as I felt he would attempt to push me as to what Balmuria could offer in return and I did not want to give away too much to him." Demedais says. "I take it you have dealt with him before."
[18:12] <Kotono> "Indirectly. He vanished with Berlioz last time." Turning to go back, his voice is rigid. "Be careful around him, I don't trust him for a moment."
[18:14] <Demedais> "That would explain his knowledge of Shamal and Seira." Demedais nods as he follows Oberuth back in.
[18:16] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[18:16] <Kotono> On reentering, Commander Oberuth sits. "We have concerns about a direct assault, but to fully gauge it, we need to know what Malmuth is willing to pledge to a combined effort."
[18:21] <Kotono> "Very well." Almand smiles slightly, "We are willing to pledge a contingent of Malmuthian troops in Balmuria for support - the ones I brought andd another two score can be summoned. Further, King Ferdi sends champions to Valandia to represent our Empire and our might. We are all willing to cooperate."
[18:25] <Kotono> "We have enough troops of our own," Commander Oberuth says, very firm on that point. "However, this may be a battle of champions, not of normal arms. What champions are you willing to send?"
[18:29] <Kotono> "We have several," he allows, starting to msile, "General Olburt, champion and holder of the Divine Sword Elysium, in particular. We had another that was suitable, but he died within the past year."
[18:32] * Demedais blinks a bit at this, but says nothing.
[18:33] <Kotono> "Then send them to Balmuria when we confront Kondrux," Oberuth speaks, "Combined with the Crimson Guard, we shall have a viable force to oppose it with."
[18:35] <Kotono> Almand seems to consider this only a few seconds, before he blandly smiles. "This is acceptable to us."'
[18:35] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth almost half starts, but instead smiles diplomatically. "Well then," he offers his hand, Almand taking it as the two shake, "We'reon our way to agreeing on this matter."
[18:37] * Demedais eyes Almand as the two shake, attempting to size his offer up.
[18:37] <Kotono> "Yes, we will send our champions," Almand says quite agreeably, "A warrior, a stealth fighter and a cleric. The three should aid your chances considerably. General Olburt is the leader of them and the warrior. Pallan of Turnsdale is the thief, and Claris Brightsuns is the cleric."
[18:37] <Kotono> OOC: Sense motive.
[18:38] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11
[18:38] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 and gets 14."12 [1d20=3]
[18:42] <Kotono> "Very well," Oberuth says, a nod. "If you excuse us, I'll send pages to deal with the minutae of the situation." With this, Commander Oberuth leaves. "Demedais, with me," he calls.
[18:42] * Demedais nods to Almand, then follows Oberuth.
[18:43] <Kotono> Once the pair of you are out and downt he hall, "Agreeable bastard," he observes out loud.
[18:44] <Demedais> "Just a little." Demedais understates.
[18:47] <Demedais> "Although I have no doubt he would've enjoyed bringing troops in even more."
[18:50] <Kotono> "Like hell if I'll allow that," Growling, "Oh yes, they'd have an easy time of it if Balmuria fell before anything could happen. Give them a launching point right into the heart of the country." But despite this, his expression settels down. "What I don't like is how he didn't push his own plan at all, and instead agreed to ours with no serious debate."
[18:50] <Demedais> "Indeed."
[18:51] <Demedais> "However, I don't know what he could be planning if not that. My suspicion is... he expects Balmuria to fall, but wants to put up a friendly face in case we don't."
[18:52] <Kotono> "Entirely possible," Oberuth mutters to himself, "The champions idea...I dislike having powerful Malmuthians here freely, but we have no choice and it's more agreeable and more useful. Besides, two can play at that game."
[18:55] <Demedais> "You have a plan, then, as well?" Demedais asks, head cocked toward Oberuth.
[18:58] <Kotono> "Yes. If our relations...deterorate," As Oberuth speaks, pages pass by, going towards the room the two of you left behind. "We'll surely see them again. Therefore, learn any and everything you can about them, especially what they can do and what they can't."
[18:58] <Demedais> "Understood. And keep our cards close to our chest, so to speak?" Demedais grins.
[19:02] <Kotono> "Yeah." Nodding, "Oh yes, there is one other matter." Turning to Demedais, "Before you go rest for the night - we're training troops with that hot head you bashed around in Valandia. Foolish or not, he's a good swordsman. Also, the girl that the dragon brought back wants to help and claims to be a capable archer. Go talk to her soon and see how good she is."
[19:05] <Demedais> "Alright. I'll go do that. Glad to hear that about Donald - even if he never gets enough self-control to become a paladin, he's a good person in general." Demedais nods. "Having him work with others should be a great help to him. Where is the girl?"
[19:06] <Kotono> "She's been holed up in Seira's inn." A nod at that, before he starts to grin, this one finally reaching his eyes. "Id on't know about her skill, but her will's in the right place. She's been practicing the entire time when she's not resting or when she's not being questioned."
[19:08] <Demedais> "At least she has determination." Demedais says flatly, not smiling. "She'll need all she can get..."
[19:09] <Kotono> "Yes. Alright, "As you reach the exit to the garrison, Oberuth waves his hand. "Dismissed.
[19:11] * Demedais nods to Oberuth and heads to Seira's inn, forcing himself to acknowledge that he should be polite, kind, and nice to the poor girl. Somehow it's not getting through, but...
[19:15] <Kotono> You find her in the backyard, straw targets having been erected. Here she wears only a sweaty shirt and cut off pants above her knee, her practice intense. She stands firm with her bow and arrow, shooting of volleys at a time.
[19:16] * Demedais stands back and watches her accuracy, not giving any sign as to his presence.
[19:18] <Kotono> She's fairly accurate, a step or four above most guardsman archery practices. She goes through her quiver in a minute or so, stopping to go and gather her arrows back up. She hit a fair bit more than she missed.
[19:19] <Demedais> "You are rather impressive." Demedais admits grudgingly.
[19:21] <Kotono> Pollyanna continues to gather her arrows back, refilling her quiver. She discards one, the arrow head loose. "Trying to be," she says, going into position again. "I'm going to be better, too."
[19:22] * Demedais continues to watch, not saying anything else. Goddamnit why does she have to actually be impressive at this?
[19:23] <Kotono> She continues again, doing well a second time. She doesn't speak until she gathers her arrows back up again, "Do you know when the dragon is going to come?"
[19:24] <Kotono> Her voice is cool; no, cold. There just no emotion, her eyes fixiated on the targets the entire time. Focused, to the point of not evenl ooking at Demedais.
[19:26] <Demedais> "No. It could be a day, a week, a month, a year. It was surprisingly reticent on such information." Demedais says, watching the arrows hit the target.
[19:27] <Kotono> "I'll wait," she doesn't stop as she gathers again, another volley fired off in due time. Again, she's not missing them much at all.
[19:30] <Demedais> "As will I.." Demedais says. After a moment, "The archers amongst the Guard could use some training and advice from you."
[19:31] <Kotono> "Fine, as long as they don't slow me down," She speaks with a coldness, not even stopping as targets are riddled with arrows. "Can they keep up?"
[19:34] <Demedais> "You will have to see. There will be those that likely can't, but more that can." Demedais says, looking at her for the first time. "And to be perfectly honest, the more skilled arrows flying at the thing when it returns, the more likely some will actually get through its hide. If you want to see that thing go down, your best bet is to go at it with a retinue of archers with skills like yours."
[19:35] <Kotono> "Fine," she repeats, not stopping as she yet again fires a fury of arrows off. "Just make sure we have protection and cover. Can you do that much?"
[19:37] <Demedais> "That can be arranged." Demedais nods.
[19:46] <Kotono> "Fine." Her word is spoken in a chilly monotone, as she continues to practice, paying no mind to Demedais.
[19:48] * Demedais leaves silently, letting her get her anger out as he heads back to the garrison.
[19:50] <Kotono> OOC - Going to report back?
[19:51] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah, if only to tell Oberuth that we've got a frigid archer.
[19:57] <Kotono> OOC: Okay. Hm. Any other plans at the moment?
[19:57] <Demedais> OOC: Going back to the temple and praying for Shamal.
[19:58] <Kotono> OOC: Okay. Go ahead and roll a wisdom check.
[20:00] <Demedais> roll 1d20+1
[20:00] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+1 and gets 15."12 [1d20=14]
[20:01] <Kotono> Demedais prays. He feels better as he does, a sense of peace coming over him.
[20:02] * Demedais prays for Shamal specifically, but also for the dragon problem... and for his irritation at Pollyanna... and for wisdom regarding the Almond...
[20:07] <Kotono> Demedais feels better after, his spirit calmed.
[20:47] * Demedais pauses for a second, before standing. "To lose a defender of the land at a time like this... Helm." He prays softly and focuses intently. "Do I have time to go try and find Shamal via Uatu's magics?"
[20:55] <Kotono> roll 1d20+1
[20:55] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20+1 and gets 5."12 [1d20=4]
[20:55] <Kotono> OOC - Oops, wrong room.
[20:57] <Kotono> Demedais feels a stronger feeling of peace.
[21:01] * Demedais closes his eyes, thinking. "I do not wish to endanger this city if I am wrong on this feeling..." With a turn, he goes to try and consult with a priest for an augury.
[21:02] <Kotono> Father Ceiar and the head priest are found discussing things in a spartan back room, going over plans. "Demedais," The latter pauses as the paladin enters.
[21:10] * Demedais nods to the two. "How are preparations going here?"

[Corwin]

[18:34] <Demedais> "The very same." Demedais nods. "Imprisoned by the Gnomes. It was that that made me realize what we were up against, if the Gnomish King ever awakens."
[18:39] <Kotono> "Helm..." Ceiar looks down, eyes bowed as he holds his holy symbol. He is silent for long moments thinking about that, "I read that a single Pit Fiend could destroy an entire country. What could stop that?"
[18:40] * Ebiris is now known as Shamal
[18:41] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
[18:42] <Demedais> "I would not doubt that assessment. It was for that reason that I advocated, as odd as it may sound, freeing it." Demedais' face quirked, a small grin. "Seira managed to convince it via a carrot-and-stick methodology to return to its own plane and never come back again. In return, we released it from the circle." Demedais looks up at Ceiar. "If the thing ever got free - by some fool adventurer or even a rogue devil
[18:45] <Demedais> , the United Baronies would have been ripped apart in its rage. To release it was a questionable act, and yet I cannot find it in myself to question it. I do not believe it will ever come here again." Demedais says softly. "I certainly hope not. But to leave it trapped there, anger brewing...? No. Not an option."
[18:52] <Kotono> "I see..." Rubbing his holy symbol a few times, Father Ceiar is lost in thought. "Give me some time to digest that?"
[18:53] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais nods, leaning back and thinking.
[18:54] <Kotono> The father is lost entirely in thought, and as the time slips by, there is a knock on the door. The high priest enters, "Demedais," he calls in a word.
[18:55] <Demedais> "Yes, father?" Demedais says, standing quickly.
[18:56] <Kotono> "Come." He holds the door open, awaiting.
[18:59] * Demedais bows to Father Ceiar, then quickly follows the high priest out.
[19:02] <Kotono> Once you are outside in the hall, the high priest speaks. "The vision spoke of both good and bad if you choose to leave town," he reports solemnly.
[19:04] * Demedais bows his head, thinking. "Any details recieved other than that?" he asks at last.
[19:07] <Kotono> "That if you stay, you will reap both good and bad, adn that if you go, you will obtain both bliss and troubles. The divination was...uncertain," he admits after a few moments, "It is not a clear path."
[19:09] <Demedais> "...I think I may know of what it speaks, if in some regard." Demedais nods, thinking. "Father... can..." Demedais furrowed his brow. *What makes me hesitate here...?*
[19:19] <Kotono> "Demedais?" The high priest waits, curiosity, "What makes you hesitate?"
[19:24] * Demedais blinks, looking at the high priest. "I intended to leave town to ride to the Gnomish ruins. There, a crystal... a seemingly sentient crystal... resides, that has opened up portals for us to use. I planned on using it to find a member of the Crimson Guard who has gone missing - Captain Shamal." A pause, then; "As stated before, I dislike leaving when there is a chance of the dragon descending; I also am... hesitant.
[19:26] <Kotono> "That is not an easy choice," The high priest nods gravely, "The duty to your ally and friend, or the duty to your nation. Both intermingle, as Captain Shamal is a vital part of our defenses."
[19:28] <Demedais> ...to approach that crystal again. It seems to amplify latent feelings; I felt a sense of eternal watchfulness, Shamal felt a sense of peace and harmony. Being a druid of Mielikki, that makes sense." Demedais nods at the high priest. "She is incredibly skilled with animals, beasts and living things. If anyone can find a weak point, it is her, I believe. Thus why I want to seek her out... but I digress. The crystal's... aur
[19:30] <Demedais> aura... Last time I came back from there, I could not focus for a few days - this led to some embarrassing problems. To lose focus now could be disastrous. But to lose one of the most capable defenders of the town at a time like this... even more so."
[19:33] <Kotono> There is a pause, as the high priest is silent and head bowed. "By Helm, the troubles you face..." he murmurs under his breath. "Such a dilemma has no easy answer, does it? My advice is to meditate and listen to your heart and duty. Just...do not lose yourself so long that inactivity seals your choice for you."
[19:35] * Demedais nods. "I must act today, I feel. Let me go meditate for a few more hours, and then I will inform you of my decision."
[19:40] <Kotono> "Then go, and may Helm walk with you," he agrees, "May he lead you to the proper choice."
[19:41] <Demedais> "Indeed. Thank you, father." Demedais bowed and returned to his room, lost in thought.
[19:42] <Kotono> OOC - Ball's obviously in  your court a mometn.
[19:45] <Demedais> OOC: Right.
[19:45] * Demedais bows his head and prays silently, attempting to puzzle out the truth behind the divination and his own feelings.
[19:54] <Kotono> OOC - Helm's said what he has to on this subject; ball's in your court to consider and make up your mind on.
[19:58] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah.
[19:58] <Kotono> OOC: Go ahead and act in hre when you've decided.
[19:58] <Kotono> OOC: Hatbot can help you choose, and you trust him, right?!
[19:59] * Demedais bows his head one last time, before standing up and heading back to find the high priest and Father Ceiar.
[20:01] <Kotono> You find the duo of them in ther oom they were in before, deep in discussion. "...and if it is..." you hear Father Ceiar speak, but the conversation naturally pauses as the paladin enters.
[20:03] <Demedais> "I apologize for intruding again, but I am going to see what I can do for Captain Shamal." Demedais says. "Thank you for your advice, Father; I will return in a week, hopefully."
[20:04] <Kotono> "Be safe and well," The high priest inclines his head, "Good luck and Helm walk with you."
[20:06] <Demedais> "Thank you for your blessing. May Helm walk with us all in these times..." With that, Demedais heads out, stopping only briefly to notify the Garrison before moving out as fast as possible toward the ruins!
[20:08] <Kotono> As Demedais heads out to talk to the garrison, this naturally leads him to Commander Oberuth. Putting aside instructing how to organize the few ballistas they have, he looks, "Going out again," he asks, to the point.
[20:10] <Demedais> "Yes. I intend to see what can be done to retrieve Shamal, and I believe that the crystal Shamal befriended is the key to that." Demedais replies. "I realize the problem this presents, leaving the city at a time like this, but I believe that Shamal is our best bet for protecting the town, with her capabilities."
[20:11] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth considers just a moment, before he speaks. "Wait an evening, at least. I expect Seira or Countess Stronger to return soon, hopefully, and I do not wish to leave our city without at least one of you."
[20:14] * Demedais pauses in thought. "If my gut feeling is right, sir, we do not have much time to hesitate." he says finally. "I.... do not believe the town will be in any danger before Seira comes back. I am not certain... but." Demedais nods, looking somewhere far away before locking eyes with the Commander. "I will wait until dusk, then with your permission, I ride."
[20:15] <Kotono> Oberuth considers this, "...very well," he allows at last.
[20:17] * Demedais nods. "I apologize, sir, but..." He stares out into space again, one hand idly on the Fifth Resort.
[20:20] <Kotono> "Don't." Shaking his head, "I can't do much but trust the three of you, it seems, so..." Oberuth murmurs that with a strange note in his voice, "O
[20:20] <Kotono> "I'll summon you if Seira arrives."
[20:21] <Demedais> "Very well. Thank you, sir." Demedais nods as he goes out to the courtyard to watch the practice, waiting for dusk.

[Corwin]

[20:40] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> ---
[20:40] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> roll 1d100
[20:40] * Hatbot --> "Infinite_Ko_Loop rolls 1d100 and gets 7."12 [1d100=7]
[20:43] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Thet trip is without incident. On arriving at the remote temple, you find rest but worried priests. Including the leader there, the energetic old man coming to Demedais as he briefly rests in a small room. "Have you come for the ruins again, warrior of Helm?"
[20:44] <Demedais> "I'm afraid so, yes." Demedais nods wearily. "While I am here... you have heard of the problem Balmuria faces, correct?"
[20:46] * Sierra_Mikain (~Melanchth@pool-71-191-18-214.washdc.east.verizon.net) has joined #evildunes
[20:47] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "No, but...we have had dreams lately," He begins, "All of us here. Of the city that lies beneath the temple, covered in mists and sharp lines of quartz."
[20:49] <Demedais> "...What?" Demedais says, frowning. "That... hmmm. Could that be..."
[20:50] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The head priest nods, solemnly. "During the days, our prayers feel sharper, mroe in tune. At night, we spend our rests in vivid dreams of this city."
[20:51] <Demedais> "Uatu." Demedais says flatly. "Curses. I wasn't aware... this poses possible problems. The potential.... argh." Demedais closes his eyes, lost in thought. "I must really wonder if Shamal's crystalline friend is as friendly as she thought..."
[20:55] <Demedais> "Have there been any other side effects other than these prayers and these dreams?"
[20:58] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "No. It is...a strange time. But not a bad one, I feel more at peace than I have in my life." With a smile he greets Demedais, calm. "It is not a bad feeling."
[20:59] <Demedais> "It could also be a brainwashing feeling, I fear." Demedais returns. "Especially if... the underground is being turned into stuff like Uatu..."
[20:59] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Are you worried?" The high priest goes on, starting to pace, "
[21:00] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "If you are, go. Yet, I am not afraid orw orried of it at all."
[21:01] <Demedais> "I need to go down there anyway... having come this far. However, I will admit freely to not trusting it at all. Inquire to Helm whether or not the crystal in the gnomish city means you harm, when you get the chance." Demedais says as he settles into the chair to pray and rest for the night.
[21:05] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I shall. Rest well, paladin," The old man offers, before leaving Demedais to peace. OOC - Resting and then going into the mcity?
[21:05] <Demedais> OOC: Yeah.
[21:05] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC: roll 1d100, would you?
[21:06] <Demedais> roll 1d100
[21:06] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 and gets 33."12 [1d100=33]
[21:06] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Demedais sleeps well, dreaming. He dreams of a misty city, chilly and timeless. When he awakens, he feels much better.
[21:08] * Demedais nods and stands up, determined to figure out precisely what the hell that crystal's doing. No one's brainwashing servants of Helm on his watch... First, to the high priest, to greet him in the morning and ask of his inquiry to Helm; secondly, down toward the city to determine what's going on!
[21:09] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> You find him at the altar, waiting. "My prayers were peaceful. I cannot recall what, but I feel calm." The old man smiles at Demedais, restful, as lessers and acyoltes go about, working. But there is a strange serenity to how they move, a calmness with no words.
[21:11] <Demedais> "...right." Demedais says. "While I'm thinking of it, I'd like to request the shrine's help - a dragon's going to attack Balmuria soon. The temple there needs every single hand possible to help them protect the citizens."
[21:13] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "WE can send a few hands, but our divine duty is here," The high priest nonetheless nods to Demedais respectfully.
[21:13] * Demedais nods wordlessly and proceeds down to the city, fully expecting the worst...
[21:15] * Demedais idly checks to see if that guardian's still there.
[21:16] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Once Demedais goes to the cellar and heads down, he finds the way...different. It's chilly on the walk, at last coming to the guardian. It stands there in perfect harmony, motionless in front of the doors to the city proper. Yet...yet...the doors have changed, made of steamy white quartz, sharp and with dozens of tiny, razor like lines over it. Enough to slice through anything with ease, chilly slashes.
[21:16] <Demedais> "Guardian." Demedais speaks. "What, precisely, is going on here?"
[21:22] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The guardian is silent at first, moving lethargically. "This place..is changing. I see now that a place was not effected before, and thus, it's influence spreads and consolidates."
[21:25] <Demedais> "For the love of Helm...!" Demedais says in a smothered rage. "What do you mean, 'you see now that a place was not effected before'?!"
[21:26] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "It is because that place was a part of another plane as much as this one. There are no barriers here.  In this place, there is no distance. The call of the Gods is not withdrawn."
[21:28] <Demedais> "What place are you talking about?" Demedais says, attempting to control his anger. That explains why Shamal, Demedais, and now the priests felt more in tune here... but there still may be danger.
[21:31] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Where it resides, the place where the mists come from." So the guardian speaks, the door ahead glittering. "It is a place like ghosts and the etherial mists."
[21:33] <Demedais> "Right. Um. Two things, then. Firstly, there's a blue dragon near Balmuria, and I'd like to request your assistance in handling its threat." Demedais says, obviously a bit irritated and trying to hide it.
[21:38] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "My duty is here, to guard the way into the gnomish city, and now to guard the way into the gap." The guardian straightens up, "This place is as important to protect as the ruins were."
[21:41] <Demedais> "Very well." Demedais says, noting this. "Secondly, I have multiple questions to ask of the master of the gap - and I've also got questions for you. Is this mist, this changing - is it against the will of Helm?
[21:43] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Mortal Paladin. This place is so guarded by the instruction of The Lord Of Watches." The guardian stiffens, "The will of Helm values this gap, which shows what has been lost."
[21:45] <Demedais> "Mmm. So Helm... desires this place to stay intact. Very well, then." Demedais says reluctantly. "I must ask a favor of a being that resides in the city below - that which has created this gap for Helm, I believe. May I pass?"
[21:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Lord Helm has granted you access; the deeds of your companions and your self brought this to pass. The way is open to you." The guardian stands aside of the razor sharp door of steaming cold white quarts.
[21:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> *quartz
[21:46] <Demedais> "Very well, then. Thank you." Demedais opens the door gingerly and continues on, alert to anything... different. You know, other than a crystal city.
[21:49] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The door spills out mist. Immediately Demedais is chilled, the way ahead indistinct. You can see glistening-sharp points of steaming cold blades in the distance, impossible lines and angles about. You can see a million tiny reflections in each eyefull, just beyond each step of mist. As you see all this, it feels as if a bandage is ripped away from your heart and soul. It spills in, a feeling of closeness; stronger. A feeling of
[21:50] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> A feeling of watching. You feel as if a part of you have been reawoken all at once, sent to throbbing awareness.
[21:51] <Demedais> "For the love of..." Demedais mutters as he feels this awareness. "So this... is you, Helm?" he murmurs as he begins praying for protection on his way to Uatu, shivering a bit as he goes.
[22:02] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> There aren't any words here, just feeling. The feeling is palpable as you walk on, strong. Walking through the mists without definition, going down stares with edges sharp enough to slice your boots in two if one misstepped. Yet you always seem to walk safely, down and down and down.
[22:05] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> On you go. Soon enough you come not to a citadel or city, but to an platform. It floats about fourty feet away from you, a distinct feeling of wind near it, as if coming from a deep pit below. Yet all you see in front of Uatu are mists. It sits on a perfectly sharp platform, unmoving and with mists spreading forth from it.
[22:07] <Demedais> "...well. Um, I see you've done some redecoration, Uatu..." Demedais says as he nears the platform. "Um. Could I talk to you for a little bit? Shamal's in trouble, I think, and I need your help to get her out of it."
[22:08] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> As Demedais talks, mists begin to surround him. Quick, fast moving mists, swirling around his body.
[22:11] <Demedais> "...uh. Uatu? Could you, um, calm down these mists? They're a bit unnerving." Demedais says, staring up at the crystal. "Or at least tell me what you're doing with them. Shamal's trapped on the Astral Plane, and I don't know any way to reach her except through you. We need her help to assist us in protecting Balmuria. Please, Uatu."
[22:14] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The mists gather, but they stay just away from Demedais. They move frantically, swirling around him but not touching him, giving him space.
[22:17] <Demedais> "Thanks, I think. Um." Demedais takes a step toward the mists in front of him, watching to make sure they move.
[22:17] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The mists do not move, Demedais getting chilled as he approaches. His vision flickers when he does, a near montage of things seen in a frantic moment.
[22:19] * Demedais hesitates, attempting to steady his vision. "Uatu..." he murmurs, before walking through the mist toward Uatu's platform, determined to get to the bottom of this!
[22:20] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> As Demedais approaches, suddenly the mists stop moving, pooling around and in front of Demedais! Uatu's platform begins to carefully drift backwards.
[22:23] <Demedais> "Uatu! Please!" Demedais calls, a bit irritated again. "Can you bring Shamal here?"
[22:24] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> To that, mists begin to swirl around Demedais again, closing in from all around.
[22:25] * Demedais stops and waits, letting the mists close in. If this is Uatu's answer...
[22:27] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The mists close in! Demedais' vision is transfixes as they cloud his vision. He sees Shamal floating in a strange place,  a chunk of forest and ground in a great silvery void. Shamal smiles and calls, stepping through and into mists. Then you see Demedais and Shamal walking out of Uatu's area, the crystalline door closing, this time another layer of sharp white quartz appearing over it. Walking away and farther away.
[22:28] <Demedais> "Shamal!" Demedais says, not sure if what he sees is reality or illusion, vision or deception. "Shamal, can you hear me?"