034.1 Alicia

[Corwin]

[20:05] <Kotono> ---
[20:07] <Kotono> Back in Balmuria, the city is wrapped in fall. The trades have begun again - iron flows out, money and goods flow in. The new quarter of the city bustles with money and power, the older part of the city blooming as well. New, richer houses are constructed, the Temple of Waukeen booming. So is the Temple of Helm, attracting more people by the day, as if each leaf that falls brings more wealth and people to the city. Even Alicia finds her days
[20:09] <Kotono> Even Alicia finds her days somewhat disturbed at times, occasional travelers coming up and looking at her in awe, or offering to shake her hand, or ask a bevy of questions. But that is even only secondary to today. Antenora has been strangely restless the last day or two from returning, somewhat surly and quiet, even as Alicia may come to her.(More)
[20:12] <Kotono> In particular, Antenora paces in her room at times, answering questions quickly and quietly. Her gaze is oftne abstracted, even a bit irritated.
[20:13] * Alicia has been meaning to speak to Antenora about something in particular, but decides that some breathing space may be in order. "Come on, Antenora, lets get some fresh air," she suggests, having gathered her weapons and armour - including the unicorn horn spear she recently claimed from their last adventure.
[20:16] <Kotono> "Yes, Mistress," Antenora glances at the spear and armor, but falls in line dutifully enough. Her face is withdrawn, quiet.
[20:17] <Alicia> Out into the spacious but mostly unused grounds of her estate, Alicia heads to where she has some practice dummies set up and begins to practice slowly with the spear, keeping the tempo low and getting a feel for this new weapon. "You've seemed out of sorts lately... anything you want to tell me?" she asks as she eases into her routine.
[20:22] <Kotono> Antenora half watches, vision sharpening as she turns her head towards Alicia. "No," she answers very quickly.
[20:24] <Alicia> "Very well," Alicia allows, letting silence reign for a minute or two as she works through graceful stabs and thrusts with the spear, slowly circling around the practice dummy as she methodically ravages it. Then, as the pregnant silence seems to be at its most oppressive, she speaks quietly. "Why did you save Demedais?"
[20:30] <Kotono> Antenora doesn't start at all, but instead keeps her gaze abstracted and away. For all it appears via magic, she's a slightly bored woman watching a warrioress train. "You'd have ordered me to do it in a moment anyway, Mistress."
[20:32] <Alicia> "But I didn't," Alicia replies. "It happened too fast for me to do anything... I wouldn't have blamed you one bit if you'd done nothing." Alicia begins to increase the intensity of her attacks, though her breath remains level and sweat refuses to mar her brow. "In fact, hadn't I ordered you not to leave my presence at all?"
[20:34] <Kotono> "...I was just upholding my word to you, Mistress," Antenora answers sweetly, putting on a faint smile to her face. "I'm happy to aid my Mistress."
[20:37] <Alicia> "I don't think you were upholding your word," Alicia resists the natural impulse to make slashing movements as she's more used to, instead continuing to stab and weave as she practices. "You disobeyed an explicit order I'd given you... and you did it to save someone's life." Alicia can't help it, for all that she tries to sound neutral and disconnected, there's a hint of pride in her voice, right now.
[20:40] <Kotono> Antenora doesn't reply to that, the only sounds Alicia's steady, rythmic thrusting through dummies with her enchanted spear. It handles beautifully, seeming to anticipate thrusts and pour it's entire being into them.
[20:42] * Alicia ends things, leaping high up into the air and stabbing the spear straight down the middle of her practice dummy on her landing, before violently wrenching it free from the now splintered in half block of wood.
[20:42] <Alicia> "Hmm... yes, a fine weapon. I could get used to this," she muses approvingly, hefting its weight in her hands before she glances towards Antenora. "Catch," she offers, before tossing it lightly towards her, length up so it'll be easy to grab.
[20:48] <Kotono> Antenora looks up at just the last moment, grabbing it out of the air with inhumanly deft reflexes, a whistle as the tip of the spear cuts through the air. "You wish for me to hold your weapon, Mistress?" she asks, a hint of sardonic irritation. "Should I fetch you tea next?"
[20:49] <Alicia> "It's yours," Alicia states calmly, turning to face the devil. "Do with it as you please."
[20:52] <Kotono> Antenora stops a moment, looking down at the spear. "...why?" she asks, her annoyance melting.
[20:55] <Alicia> "I'm not saying you've earned your feathers yet," Alicia admits, shrugging as she leans on the ruined practice dummy, idly casting a mending cantrip to repair the damage. "But you've proven yourself worthy of at least this much trust - I no longer forbid you from fighting."
[20:55] <Alicia> "I don't really want you to fight alongside me, and I'd prefer you just had it for self defence if I'm  not able to protect you..." she shakes her head and spreads her hands helplessly, "But this whole thing is pointless if I choke you with too tight a leash. I'll trust your judgement to decide how to use it, Antenora."
[21:00] <Kotono> Antenora's spear whistles downward as she swings downward more, pointing to the ground. She looks at Alicia with an unreadable expression that begins to crack, and then without a word, whirls and heads inside. Alicia thinks she can hear something spoken, but it's lost in the whistle of magical spears cutting the air.
[21:01] <Alicia> "You're welcome!" Alicia calls after her, before sighing and looking heavenwards. "Mystra help me, I hope I'm right about her..." she whispers.
[21:02] <Kotono> As Alicia prays, she hears a heavy THUMP from the house. The sound of a wall getting hit by something fast and hard, perhaps.
[21:02] <Alicia> "Uh..." Alicia proceeds to hurry inside. She didn't give her that spear so she could wreck the house with it!
[21:03] <Kotono> The wall just past the back door has a bit of a thump on it now, as if hitby a great force. Antenora's already gone, though. No piercing mark, however.
[21:04] * Kotono is now known as Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses
[21:06] <Alicia> "Hmm..." Alicia ponders for a moment, before just casting mending and letting it go. She's probably just confused and needs some time to herself to adjust... Oh, well, best not to push it. Alicia instead takes off her armour and decides to make lunch before relaxing for the rest of the day.
[21:07] * El-Cideon is now known as Sierra_Plotting
[21:07] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> The rest of the day passes with an ominous feeling over the house. It's strange, something just feels off. Even if it's quiet...but the evening brings a distraction. Before bed, Alicia's bedroom door is knocked on.
[21:10] <Alicia> Luckily she hasn't undressed yet, and so replies promptly. "Come in," Alicia is a bit disturbed by the ominous feeling in the air, really hoping that it isn't a sign of impending betrayal. She's taken a gamble, but surely Antenora wouldn't have tried to save Demedais if she was truly irredeemable? Her justifications seemed flimsy, anyway.
[21:17] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> Antenora is there, awaiting. Her face is ungiving, cold. "Mistress," she begins.
[21:19] * Alicia keeps her own expression neutral as she faces the fiend that she's taken under her care. "Yes?" she allows.
[21:20] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> There's a pause, "Would you have stood there if the unicorn charged?" she asks flat out.
[21:22] <Alicia> "I'd have probably tried to trip the unicorn as it charged, for all that a human tripping a four-legged beast is a difficult proposition - it's not in my nature to take an attack without replying, after all," Alicia allows a slight twitch of her lips into a half-smile. "But Rosamund would have had to go through me to attack you, I promise that."
[21:28] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> Antenora opens her mouth as if to speak a few times, but finally just lowers her head. "Good night, Mistress," she says rather abruptly, turning away.
[21:31] <Alicia> "Good night, Antenora," Alicia returns, not bothering to follow her and set up the alarm on her room. Ominous feeling or not, she has to show some degree of trust... and hope that she's a light sleeper if said trust is misplaced. Instead she closes the door and finishes undressing so that she can sleep, hopefully in peace...
[21:32] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> roll 1d100
[21:32] * Hatbot --> "Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses rolls 1d100 and gets 36."12 [1d100=36]
[21:32] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> roll 1d100
[21:32] * Hatbot --> "Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses rolls 1d100 and gets 100."12 [1d100=100]
[21:35] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> That night, Alicia sleeps well. It's a long, restful sleep, strangely peaceful despite her surroundings. When she awakens, her eyes are drawn to a beautiful sunrise. Light crests into her room, a cascade of yellow, orange and white. The air is just warm enough to not chill, and combined with the sunlight spilling into her room she wakes up well indeed.
[21:38] <Alicia> After a brief bout of morning amnesia, Alicia sits up and feels a small sense of relief. There's hope for that fiend, yet, it seems. Casting prestidigitation, she cleans herself up before getting dressed and making her bed, before she exits her bedroom.
[21:38] <Alicia> Knocking on Antenora's door as she passes, she calls "Good morning," as is her habit, before going to make breakfast, expecting that the Erinyes will follow momentarily, unburdened as she is by the need to sleep.
[21:42] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> No reply from the bedroom after Alicia's call.
[21:43] * Alicia pauses a few steps down the hall. She then backtracks and knocks again. "Antenora?" She doesn't sleep, so...
[21:53] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> AFter a loooooooong pause, Antenora's voice is heard, "Yes, Mistress?" she calls back.
[21:56] <Alicia> "Are you alright?" Alicia asks after a brief pause. "Normally you're all bright-eyed and alert before I've even got the sleep out of my eyes."
[21:58] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> "I'm fine," Antenora shuffles a bit, opening the door. She looks as she always does, "I was simply distracted."
[21:59] <Alicia> "Still don't want to talk about it?" Alicia asks, again starting to head downstairs.
[22:02] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> There's a long pause, before Antenora laughs. It's a bitter sound, harsh. "Why?" she begins, pointedly. "You could have had a unicorn in your debt and thrall. Something any paladin would be honored by. It wouldn't have even broken your word."
[22:13] <Alicia> "I said I'd protect you, that's why you wouldn't need to fight," Alicia states levelly as she heads into the dining room, pausing there to face Antenora rather than continuing on to the kitchen. "I won't let anyone hurt you so long as you're under my care, be they demon or angel." Holding her gaze firm on Antenora's, she goes on, "You could be killed, and justly so, considering the deaths you caused while controlling Dawnbreak."
[22:13] <Alicia> "But killing you won't do any good for those already dead. All it is is cutting our losses... so long as you work towards redemption, however hard and even unattainable it may seem, I will do what I can to help you on your way. You have potential, Antenora - potential I didn't think existed in your kind. I'd hate to see it wasted."
[22:20] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> "Hah, is that what good is?" Antenora's voice turns nasty, "Hoping that I'll break down like that and just...urgh!" She throws her arms up into the air, "That was a fluke, a mistake! I wasn't thinking!" It's all blurted out at once, "And I nearly died for it!" Stomping off, Antenora turns back towards her room.
[22:21] * Alicia smiles, whispering softly so that Antenora might only hear if she strained. "That's how I knew..."
[22:24] <Ko-Sierralovessuccubuses> Alicia doesn't get a reply, Antenora quickly heading to her room. You even can hear the SLAM of a door being, well, slammed.
[22:26] * Alicia busies herself with making and then eating breakfast, giving Antenora some time to cool off before she calls her down so they can go off to the garrison for her duties.

[Corwin]

[19:35] <Kotono> The march to Beth's cell deep in the garrison's prisons is a chilly one. The cool air seems to turn colder in this place, vicious and heavy. Antenora follows along without comment, as the final door is reached. The guard here salutes dutifully, "Ma'am."
[19:39] * Alicia nods cooly to the guard. "How has the prisoner been?" she asks, partially recoiling at the cold dehumanising way of referencing her sister, and partially using it as a shield from the horrible truth that her own flesh and blood is an admitted assassin who fully deserves her current predicament.
[19:42] <Kotono> Antenora watches on with disinterest, mostly absorbed into herself. "She was given winter clothes last week, and an overdue bathing. Otherwise, she is as well as can be. She's tough enough to survive, ma'am."
[19:44] * Alicia takes a deep breath and nods. "Thank you. Unlock the door, please?" she asks. "Antenora, if you would wait here, please?" she then requests of the devil. "My sister is difficult enough to deal with without her having a distraction to pick at."
[19:46] <Kotono> Antenora does slightly perk up at that, but, "...as you wish, Mistress," her normal slightly too sweet smile returns at that, as she steps aside.
[19:47] <Alicia> Giving Antenora a level look, Alicia waits for the door to be opened before she enters the cell, closing the door behind her.
[19:52] <Kotono> INside, chained to the floor, is Beth. She's clad in very plain, dyed oranged clothes. They stand out, yet are just heavy enough to provide warmth for the strange cold that lingers in this place. Her smell is only mildly unpleasant, as she looks up with a leer. "Aaah, welcome bac,, lil' sis. Miss me?"
[19:55] <Alicia> "It's been too long, sister mine," Alicia sighs as she steps fully into the room. "I'm sorry for neglecting you, but things have been busy." It's true, of course, but deep down Alicia knows that's far from all. Beth is just so hateful and difficult to deal with, that it's far easier to just let these things lapse, excuses not to visit coming with distressing ease.
[19:57] <Kotono> "Yes well, I'm sure you're having fun waving your sword around and acting like a hero," With a big smirk on her face, "Still actin' like a man, eh?"
[19:58] * Alicia crosses her arms. "Being a knight is no more exclusive to men than being an assassin," she returns pointedly.
[19:59] <Kotono> Beth spreads her arms out, "Hahahahaha. Still playin' bein' a high'n'mighty knight lord. Anyway, dearest sister, what is it you want this time? Time to gloat and feel good, or try to tell yourself 'Oh, my sister will be ready and love me this time?"
[20:02] <Alicia> "Believe me, feeling good is the last thing I feel whenever we're reunited... and," she hesitates, her next words sticking roughly in her throat. But, with an effort of will, she forces them out, "I... I'm sorry for how I spoke, last time. I lost my temper, and that was uncalled for." It was, of course, true, but she should have known that rubbing Beth's face in her failures would not have done any good.
[20:05] <Kotono> "Oh...oh..." Beth sniffles loudly, a hand going to wipe her entirely dry cheek. "Oh sister, I'm sorry! Take me from here and I'll join a monastery by the morrow!" Looking on at Beth, "Stow in the ear of the Crimson Guard." Her voice is full of scorn, "Heard you have someone shadowing you all the time now," she shifts conversation, "Even when stories about fightin' hordes of ghouls and a master come in, too."
[20:11] * Alicia clenches her fists, struggling to reign in her temper. "Can we not do this, Beth?" she finally gets out as anger gives way to despair.
[20:11] <Alicia> "I don't want to fight you, anymore. Can't we just talk like two civilised pe- hell, can't we just talk like two damn sisters?" she demands exasparatedly, before her hands fall limp at her sides, regarding Beth with severely mixed emotions clear on her face. "What went so wrong between us? Even when we fought as children, it was never so... so hateful."
[20:15] <Kotono> "Oh, my little sister," Beth jeers, "Then listen. I hate you. I hate everything about you, you upright, self righteous, over important bitch." With a predatory smile, "You're just another idiot with delusions of righteousness and a few scraps of power. Flailing along, angry and trying to claim it's good." With the darkest smile Alicia has ever seen, "Maybe I'd like ya if you didn't try to pretend you weren't anything but my sister in bloo
[20:15] <Kotono>  blood and spirit." (More)
[20:17] <Kotono> "How many people hav eyou killed while calling it 'for good?', while feeling that anger, or that contempt? All that is is a pretty little excuse for you, Alicia." Tossing her head back in a grand, haughty gesture, "Don't think yer foolin' me or anyone."
[20:35] <Alicia> "You think I'm impressed?" Alicia replies coldly. "Anger... contempt. Damn right I feel them. People like you, Beth..." she glares down at her big sister with an expression of purest malice, "Are why I'm a killer. Oh, make no mistake, I've killed dozens of people just like you. Filth that think an innocent life can be measured in coin. You represent everything that's sick and wrong in this world."
[20:35] <Alicia> "It's because, people like you, my 'dear' sister," she laces 'dear' with a venomous amount of sarcasm, "Are the reason that I put on this armour and wield this sword every day, instead of going home to my husband and child. Because that home is empty, and the cradle broken, by scum that thought a few handfuls of coin were worth more than another's life and happiness."
[20:35] <Alicia> "I killed every last one of the bastards." She leans over Beth with a leer that almost mirrors the one her sister habitually wears, "You know, one of them tried to surrender. I told him what they do to bandits, and then I made him pick up his sword and die with his boots on. Oh, Beth," she shakes her head in dark amusement, "Hate? You don't even know the meaning of the word."
[20:35] <Alicia> "To have everything you love and cherish, snatched away in an instant of callousness... Have you ever loved, Beth? Ever cherished anything besides yourself?" her tone shifts, becoming almost innocent. "I'm honestly curious, sister. It's been so long, I really have no idea what you've done with your life..." she trails off, malevolence returning. "And yet, I find I can only wonder... how many families have you shattered?"
[20:35] <Alicia> "How many lives destroyed to feed your greed? We each have our sins, sister, but don't you dare think that acknowledging your misdeeds somehow makes you better. I'm perfectly aware of my own shortcomings... and I think my foolish, selfish, desire to prevent another member of my dwindling family from dying can be considered, if not a sin, then at least a mistake."
[20:43] <Kotono> Beth shows a momentary look of surprise as it starts, then her expression hardens into the same malice and hate Alicia wears. It comes so naturally to her, like clothing to a normal person. "I've done everything I needed to...who cares if a few lives are shattered?" Beth asks this to the point, "Besides, it only happened since you left yourself become a weak little mark. Oh, your poor husband. Rotting in Hell because his little wifey got
[20:43] <Kotono>  wifey got lazy." Sneering away now, "Is that all you have? Oh woe, I couldn't protect someone I loved! Woe, I know what true hate is! Oh, it puts me on a pedestool above everyone else!" (More)
[20:46] <Kotono> "You've done the same how many times now?" Beth casually looks on, the raw negative feeling over her so easily displayed. "I'm just honest enough to make money off of it as well as loot the bodies. I wonder...how many lives went into that armor you wear? Or...did your dead old hubby ever wake up and scream because he realised he was sleeping with a murderer?"
[20:56] <Alicia> Several replies are born and die just as quickly on Alicia's lips before she decides that she really really needs to vent. Fortunately she's not wearing gauntlets, and so the slap delivered to Beth's face is stinging, but unlikely to do much more than startle her. "You don't have the *right* to speak about him," she hisses, anger overwhelming her.
[20:56] <Alicia> "But you really want to know about what I loot? Sure," she taps her armour and her sword, "Got both of these enchanted from selling a magic rapier that belonged to a vampire. That belt I told you about on my last visit? Sent an invading army of devils back to Hell so I could afford that."
[20:56] <Alicia> Breathing deeply and glaring pure venom at her sister, "You know what, Beth? I sleep like a fucking log," she concludes with uncharacteristic coarseness.
[21:02] <Kotono> Beth just smiles during all that, growing into a perverse crown on her face. "Don't got the right? He's just a memory now, so who fucking cares?" Still, she listens, "You sleep like a log? So do I." With her own, big smile, "There you go, dearest sister."
[21:07] <Alicia> "There we go," Alicia agrees, nodding slowly as she straightens up. "Goodbye, Beth," the words are simple, but said with a deafening finality as she turns away from her sister and goes to knock on the cell door.
[21:08] <Kotono> The door opens, the guard dutifully opening it wide. "Ma'am," he says respectfully. Meanwhile, Antenora awaits.
[21:09] * Alicia nods cooly to the guard, not giving Beth a backwards glance as she exits. "We're done, here," she states categorically, not lingering as she departs.
[21:10] <Kotono> Antenora follows along, not saying a word... OOC - Ball's in your court at the moment, Alicia.
[21:10] <Alicia> OOC: Going to seek an audience with Lord Salman
[21:12] <Kotono> OOC: Immediately or more of 'when you have time, m'lord' sort of thing?
[21:12] <Alicia> OOC: immediately if I can. I won't take much of his time.
[21:15] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[21:16] <Kotono> While the distraction is accepted, Lord Salman is met with. He is discussing matters with Commander Oberuth, the latter of who nods and leaves when Alicia enters. "Busy still, even in better times," h e sighs with a smile to her. However, he stops when he sees Antenora, going to Lord Salman's side. "But I think these matters can wait."
[21:17] <Kotono> "What is it you need form us, Alicia," Lord Salman asks.
[21:19] * Alicia boldly strides up to Lord Salman before sweeping her cloak behind her and bending on one knee, formal to the core, as when they first met. "My Lord, I formally withdraw the plea for clemency I made on behalf of my sister. Please decide her fate justly, with no consideration for the selfish and impudent demands I placed upon you," she speaks, voice stiff and exact.
[21:21] <Kotono> Lord Salman looks on, expression regal and withdrawn. "We hear your request, Alicia, but as one who came on the promise of mercy and of hopeful sister hood, we would like to know why you do so and why you withdraw your support from your sister; flesh and blood you gave great priority to even with Beth's myriad crimes."
[21:26] * Alicia grits her teeth. Must he make this even harder for her? "Beth Reynes does not desire my assistance in this matter," she replies firmly, keeping her eyes on the carpet below her, "And I now realise that whatever bond once existed between us was merely a fancy on my part. My own selfish desires should not stand before justice for Beth's own actions."

[Corwin]

[17:47] <Kotono> "There have been paired circumstances that have stayed my hand against the assassin that nearly took my life; pragmatic agreements that helped my recovery from the vile poisoning, as well as your impassioned pleas when you first came to us." Lord Salman's hands are bunched together as he leands forward, supporting his chin in a ball. "Alicia. If that is your request...Then we ask of you the neccissary. What of your service to this town an
[17:48] <Kotono>  this nation and..." A pointed look at Antenora, "I would wish to ascertain that this is said of your own free will and not an attempt by other forces to strike, even if the results would be pleasing for us."
[17:54] <Alicia> "There is far more at stake than my own immature delusions, my Lord," Alicia replies, still bowed. "With what I know of events regarding Daa-vid, and the interest other forces have taken in this city, I will continue to serve." At that, she stands up, her bearing erect and solid, "I will remain because it is necessary, and not out of any desire to prevent justice from being done fairly in regards to Beth Reynes."
[17:54] <Alicia> Taking a deep breath, she continues, meeting Lord Salman's eyes, "As I understand it, she was cooperative after her arrest, and if you choose to exercise leniency based on that, so be it. But let it be clear that I have no say in this process, nor any responsibility for Beth's future conduct should she be released. She should be judged on her own merits, not mine."
[18:00] <Kotono> Lord Salman is long on his thoughts, a long silence. "Alicia Reynes, if that is your wish, so be it. I shall once again examine the sorry tale of Beth Reynes, and render justice accordingly. Be it imprisonment, a full trial, or the end that her actions could very well merit."
[18:03] * Alicia nods resolutely. "As it should have been from the start." Bowing low, she adds, "I apologise for taking your time. By your leave?" she waits to be dismissed.
[18:03] <Kotono> "Go on." Lord Salman allows, but Commander Oberuth begins to walk as well. "Alicia, amoment of your time," he asks, approaching.
[18:04] * Alicia nods to the commander as she leaves the room, turning to face him in the corridor expectantly, professionalism, and simple hardness, allowing her to remain cool and composed after all that.
[18:07] <Kotono> Antenora follows, keeping her own councils. But Commander Oberuth's eyes stray to her a moment regardless, before focusing on Alicia. "Alicia..." He begins, voice unusually halting, a contrast with his florid red face. "Are you sure on this course? You're dedicated to an incarnation of evil's redemption, but your own sister? I don't understand."
[18:08] <Kotono> OOC - STrike, left out a clause.
[18:08] <Kotono> Antenora follows, keeping her own councils. But Commander Oberuth's eyes stray to her a moment regardless, before focusing on Alicia. "Alicia..." He begins, voice unusually halting, a contrast with his florid red face. "Are you sure on this course? You're dedicated to an incarnation of evil's redemption, but your own sister is cast away? I don't understand."
[18:16] * IllicitKetchup (~corwin@bzq-79-180-18-186.red.bezeqint.net) has joined #evildunes
[18:16] * Corwin (~corwin@bzq-79-180-18-186.red.bezeqint.net) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[18:23] * Alicia sighs softly, uncomfortably aware that she really has no one to talk to... that had been part of it, she supposes. Reconnecting with Beth after so long to provide some anchor in a far too lonely life had merited serious appeal. It might be good to get this off her chest.
[18:23] <Alicia> "You know... Beth wasn't always like this," she begins, shrugging. "Or perhaps she was and I simply dismissed it... but when we were younger, she was a thief, a cheat, and a scoundrel... but she wasn't a killer. She hadn't crossed that line when we parted ways. I think, even when she poisoned me and left, some part of me believed that she was only doing it to protect me from where her path was headed, so I wouldn't follow..."
[18:23] <Alicia> "When I heard of her crimes here in Balmuria, I couldn't believe it. The sister I knew would never go so far, so I sought to try and protect her while finding out the truth for myself. And the truth is undeniable; she is a murderer through and through, with not a shred of pity or remorse in her, nor any consideration for her family."
[18:23] <Alicia> She shakes her head slowly. "I see now that our lives have gone so far apart that we might as well be strangers. She glories in the suffering she has caused, taunts me with my own losses, and refuses any effort I make at reaching out to her. And so I wonder... would I make this effort for any other assassin languishing in prison?" she pauses a moment, before decisively concluding, "Of course not."
[18:23] <Alicia> "So, if Beth does not wish to be my sister, then I shall not throw my honour aside by protecting her from the justice she deserves." Clenching a fist at her side in mounting frustration, Alicia resists the urge to hit something. "One word! If she would but ask for my help, or give any sign of remorse or desire for change, and I would move heaven and earth to help her! But I cannot help someone who refuses to help herself!"
[18:35] <Kotono> "...Alicia..." Commander Oberuth looks on, a bit of sadness playing on his face. "It sounds ilke your sister has fallen a very long ways. You're right as far as the laws go; she deserves to hang or rot in a cell until the Gods cast her into the Hells. If you feel that she's fallen so far as to be irredeemable, fine. Do you, truly?"
[18:39] * Alicia closes her eyes and takes a shuddering breath, Beth's face, twisted in a visage of purest malice as she mocked the death of the brother in law and nephew that she never met. And then the lazy contempt and perverse satisfaction she'd shown when talking about her own victims. "If Beth can be redeemed," she admits at length, "I do not believe it would be possible for me to have a hand in it."
[18:43] <Kotono> "Then..." Commander Oberuth, "Can another try at it? If she is truly without redemption, then so be it. But..." Commander Oberuth looks on at Alicia, "I've seen too many bodies of friends and soldiers carried back to families in my life. If she is beyond even that, then let the devils and demons have her."
[18:47] <Alicia> "I'm washing my hands of her," Alicia states decisively. "Whatever fate she finds, it is clear that I will have no part in it."
[18:50] <Kotono> "Alright." Commander Oberuth agrees, "I have no illusions of success, but..." He just shrugs afterwards. After some pause, "I'll come by in a few days afterwards, after duties and after the attempt."
[18:52] * Alicia stares at Obureth for a long moment, before she averts her gaze to the side. "Maybe she'll be more personable to a stranger..." she admits reluctantly.
[18:56] <Kotono> "Maybe," He smiles a bit at it, "After all...if you're so damned foolish to try with ...that thing..., then someone should watch out for you."
[19:01] <Alicia> "Hmph. Beth could give lessons to any Demon Prince," Alicia snorts. "I'll wish you luck, however pointless it may be. Goodbye, Hellman," she inclines her head tiredly, now wanting nothing so much as to spend some time alone.
[19:02] <Kotono> So Alicia heads out. Antenora follows along, a slight smile playing on her lips. "Mistress?" she asks, as Alicia travels the streets towards her home.
[19:05] * Alicia half turns towards the Erinyes. "I'm sure today has been absolutely delicious for you, Antenora, so by all means, get it out," she gestures wearily for the fiend to give it her best shot.
[19:08] <Kotono> Her smile grows even more, "Why worry? Let the laws deal with her. You've turned your back on her now, so perhaps instead...would you be adverse to practice, Mistress? My offer from before still stands, and further, if I am to have a weapon, I must not fall out of practice with it."
[19:12] * Alicia shakes her head. "I can say I did the right thing today, and I can even mean it... but that doesn't make me feel happy." She sighs, walking along in silence for a moment before she speaks again, "What you suggest has merit, but I am deeply tired, Antenora. Tomorrow, I will indulge you in the sparring you desire. Not today."
[19:14] <Kotono> Antenora merely smiles, "As you wish, Mistress," she settles back, seemingly content to follow.

[Corwin]

[19:21] <Kotono> ---
[19:26] <Kotono> A few days pas swithout incident. The weather does not seem to go beyond cool, the sea breeze moderating the weather. On another seemingly endless, glorious fall day's dusky nightfall, Alicia's front door is thumped on.
[19:28] * Alicia gets so few visitors! Getting up from where she'd been cleaning the sitting room with a mixture of elbow grease and magic, Alicia makes her way to the hall and opens the front door to see who is gracing her presence.
[19:32] <Kotono> The man outside wears well worn but even better kept armor, gleaming in the falling sun's last rays. His face is stern, a gauntlet engraved into the chestplate of his armor. "Alicia Reynes?" he asks.
[19:34] <Alicia> "The same," Alicia nods. "To what do I owe the pleasure?" she asks primly, briefly glancing at the symbol on his armour before she focuses on the man's face.
[19:35] <Alicia> roll 1d20+2 knowledge religion, I think that's Torm
[19:35] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+2 knowledge religion, I think that's Torm and gets 15."12 [1d20=13]
[19:38] <Kotono> Alicia knows it well enough, the symbol of Torm. He takes off a gauntlet, offering his hand forward. "Eudard of Torm." His face, while somewhat lined, is hearty.
[19:41] * Alicia accepts the offered hand with a firm grip, her own ungloved as she has no real reason to wear those around the house. "A pleasure... the church of the Loyal Fury is not well known in this part of the world, but neither is the Lady of Mysteries, so I suppose it is of no consequence."
[19:42] <Kotono> "Few are in this part of the world." The hand is firm, well calloused. "To slightly digress, that is a reason I came. But...ah, can we not discuss this on your doorstop?"
[19:44] <Alicia> "I suspect I know, but better not to act on mere suspicions," Alicia nods agreeably. "Please, come in, Sir Eudard," she steps aside and gestures inwards. "Would you like some refreshments?" she offers as a genial hostess. Sadly it's not too likely he's merely here to compare notes as a paladin... a pity.
[19:47] <Kotono> "Water is enough. Thank you," He goes to sit, taking off his gauntlets and resting heavily. Once that is done, "You serve Mystra, I have heard?"
[19:50] * Alicia briefly stops in the dining room to get a pitcher of water and two mugs which she then takes to the living room as she leads Eudard there. Pouring two mugs, she hands one to her guest and keeps one for herself. "That is correct. She is perhaps not as renowned as Torm for Her followers having a martial tradition, but I serve in my own way."
[19:51] <Kotono> "Yes. It's not hard to hear stories of you on the way; you are a sorcerer?" Eudard drinks lightly from his cup, before placing it down.
[19:55] <Alicia> "Among other things," Alicia nods agreeably, sitting down and gesturing for Eudard to do the same. "Mystra has blessed me with the touch of the Weave, and I use it to improve my fighting skills..." it's an old story, and one she's somewhat weary of repeating, so she cut's to the chase. "But surely you did not come all this way merely to compare notes, Sir Eudard?"
[19:56] <Kotono> "Oh, not entirely. Business before pleasure." He smiles a little bit, "Are you familiar with anything to the east of the Malmuthian Empire?"
[19:59] <Alicia> "There's Pallanth to the Northeast - I had cause to visit there, recently," Alicia admits. "But directly east... No, I can't say that I am, I fear. I'm originally from Kelara, far to the West, so my knowledge of geography in this part of the world is rather incomplete."
[20:01] <Kotono> "I must admit, it is likewise for us. We hear little except fo ra few fragments from Pallanth, more from Malmuth, and overwhelmingly of local news from the city-states.  Past Malmuth's eastern border is coastal lands, where unaffilated city states thrive. I come from one of them, Kentani. The city venerates Lord Torm; we are responsible to protect the various city states from evil...and at times from the Malmuthians, even if they seem to
[20:02] <Kotono> and at times from the Malmuthians, even if they seem to have let those ambitions go."
[20:02] <Kotono> "But...that's only background, so if I may go on?"
[20:04] * Alicia nods. "By all means," she prods. He seems reasonable enough, so hopefully he won't launch into an immediate spiel about slaying the evil that lives under her roof... she finds herself wondering how he even knows of Antenora's presence and nature, if that's the case, though. Perhaps he merely saw them about town and detected her powerful evil spirit, then did some investigation?
[20:04] <Alicia> Try as she might, she really can't think of why else a holy warrior would appear unannounced on her doorstep.
[20:07] <Kotono> "Now then..." Going on after a moment of agreement from Alicia, "In recent times, stories flitered through from traders. Distorted ones, but the God Helm's name came into it. Helm and Torm's churches often have a certain unstanding. Further, my superior had an omen from Torm, that we investigate these rumors. Such an omen is rare, so I was sent forthwith. Despite some difficulties with the internal Malmuthian situation that arose while I
[20:07] <Kotono> Despite some difficulties with the internal Malmuthian situation that arose while I travelled, I have finally arrived." (More)
[20:09] <Kotono> "AS I approach, the stories refined themselves into closer tales of the truth, especially in the last few days, now that the border has been overcome and I am in the Baronies proper."Pausing to sip his water, "Of Paladins that bravely fight in a Crimson Guard, including one of Helm. Further, there is news that Helm's temple is prospering."
[20:12] <Kotono> As the two talk, Antenora - granted, clad in disguising magics - comes by. She looks in a moment, but not interrupting.
[20:13] * Alicia idly wonders what it would be like if Mystra was as proactive as Helm and Torm seem to be. Still, she can't really begrudge the Goddess Her mysteries, and appreciates the trust She shows, even if some firm direction now and then wouldn't go amiss. Breaking out of her reverie, "Yes, that would be Demedais. Helm seems to have taken a keen interest in him, and he is an exemplary servant of his church."
[20:13] <Alicia> Spotting Antenora, her eyes flit towards the devil for a moment, expecting that Eudard will catch the movement. So what comes next?
[20:15] <Kotono> "Torm's interest must be high to send such an omen...such a rare event." So he continues on, eyes flitting to Antenora. He glances at the normal looking girl there absently, a polite nod to her, before going on. "In such an environment, I do see the obvious of why Torm would look in. Once I go to the Temple of Helm on the 'morrow, I intend to pursue these matters."
[20:18] <Alicia> Huh. That was unexpected. Oh, well, Alicia is relieved enough that there won't be any need for a confrontation, here. "If I may ask, then, just what did Torm's omen portend?"
[20:21] <Kotono> Eudard pauses the barest seconds, "That a wave of crimson shall spill into a bay, and from that justice may come forth. That from this red bay, waves will spread from kingdom to kingdom."
[20:22] <Kotono> Antenora lingers just inside the room, being quiet and watching.
[20:25] <Alicia> Seeing the Erinyes lingering, Alicia decides she might as well be open about her presence, if not her nature. "Oh, Antenora, you might as well come in and sit down if you're going to eavesdrop," she scolds, before returning her attention to Eudard. "Well, there is the Crimson Guard... but it has another more bloody connotation. And 'justice *may* come forth' doesn't sound very definitive..." she hazards in response to the prophecy.
[20:26] <Kotono> Eduard shrugs at that, before putting on a rueful smile. "No, it doesn't. Something I have spent too many hours of travel in pondering thoughts over. The way of the Gods is a message of symbols, not a clearly written treatise." (More
[20:26] <Kotono> )
[20:27] <Kotono> Antenora slides in to sit, smiling ever so sweetly even as she eyes the warrior there. "Of course, Mistress," she allows.
[20:27] <Kotono> (More)
[20:28] <Kotono> "If I may be so bold?" Eudard continues on, "Perhaps events here conspire such that Torm has taken an interest, enough to send one of HIs Servants a very long way to find out about? Or that something will happen...tales of ghouls, tales of dragons, tales of many creatures floated in the traders and taverns.""
[20:32] <Alicia> "Yes, Demedais slew an ancient Blue Dragon before I arrived in the city myself. There was a big hubbub about that as far away as the capital, where I was at the time," Alicia admits, deciding it better not to mention the other two dragons she's met. Some part of her recalls that Torm and Gold Dragons are very close. "He also receives periodic visions from Helm, so may be able to make better sense of your prophecy than I."
[20:34] <Kotono> "It is possible. To be entirely honest, I visited you first to feel out the situation. While I intend no disrespect to Demedais or the worship of Helm...I would rather see a single paladin than a paladin and an entire church."
[20:37] <Alicia> "I've visited there once, and they're not very imposing people or anything," Alicia offers generously. Of course, she's not likely to visit in the near future while she has Antenora shadowing her... no sense in tempting fate. "In any case, though, let me be the first to welcome you to Balmuria. I hadn't intended to stay here long, myself, but it's a city that has a way of grabbing you."
[20:39] <Kotono> "Perhaps it does. Thank you." He nods, finally looking at Antenora seriously. "Aaah, I apologise for not greeting you earlier..." he begins, eyeing Antenora oddly. "I was so entralled with my previous discussion."
[20:40] * Alicia lets Antenora introduce herself, merely ready to step in if he happens to discern her true nature.
[20:43] <Kotono> "Antenora," she smiles long at him, looking him over. "Ah, are you a friend of the Mistress? You look just as trail worn and weathered as she can at the end of a journey."
[20:47] <Kotono> "We have just met, but I suspect she is a righteous warrior and I would be honored to be called her friend," Eudard allows, "Are you her sister, perhaps? Or a servant?"
[20:48] * Alicia feels a slight pang at the sister reference, but keeps any such reaction off her face. "Antenora is my ward, for the time being," she smoothly interjects.
[20:49] <Kotono> Antenora smiles nicely, "Alicia is my Mistress," she bows her head ever so docilely. "While she often gives me or-" Antenora cuts off at Alicia's words, and befores he can speak, Eudard cuts in to counter. "Ah. How noble of you."
[20:51] <Kotono> Eudard can't quite seem to smile, but nonetheless nods and then rises. "I thank you for your time, but I should get to an inn before it gets any later."
[20:52] <Alicia> "Yes, we've had our ups and downs, but I think she has potential," Alicia nods, resisting the urge to say something sarcastic. Standing up, she bows politely. "Of course, allow me to show you to the door."
[20:52] <Kotono> So he is shown, "Thank you for your hospitality," he says, "I wish you well in your trials and troubles, Alicia Reynes."
[20:53] <Alicia> "And good luck to you in getting to the root of your prophecy. Blessings of Mystra be upon you, Sir Eudard," she replies, opening the door for him.
[20:54] <Kotono> HE nods once more and exits out. Once he does, Antenora rises and stretches, "Ah Mistess...what a fascinating visitor."
[20:56] <Alicia> "He'll be back," Alicia states authoritatively as she returns to the living room. "I could tell, right at the end, he couldn't resist taking a peek. He covered his surprise well, but I'm sure it was unsettling to see you in all your... ah, glory, sitting as meek as can be while we chatted."
[20:58] <Kotono> "Aaaah. I had almost wanted to show him all my glory a moment," Antenora smiles as she stretches back meaningfully. "Even if his spirit would be...aaaah...not the best, his apperance was unusually appealing for a human. But, does this mean you'll have to fight him, Mistress?"
[21:02] <Alicia> "I hope not. He seemed reasonable, and I'm sure if I can talk Rosamund into giving you the benefit of the doubt, then our recent guest will likewise be amenable to discussion rather than violence," Alicia shakes her head, before cocking her head towards the fiend. "So, humans are not normally considered attractive? And yet your own physical appearance so closely mirrors our own... how odd."
[21:03] <Kotono> "Most cannot live up to our elite standards," Antenora nearly starts to preen, but lets it melt into a sugary oversweet smile. "Most humans simply look...bland. Only those with great appeal or a strong spirit truly get our attention in that manner."
[21:06] <Alicia> "And what a curse such attention would be..." Alicia mutters, picking up the mugs and pitcher so she can put them away. "I had another Erinyes once seem rather taken with me. It did not inspire much but foreboding."
[21:07] <Kotono> The chuckle Alicia hears is most amused. "Your beauty is notable for a human. Then again, the entire guard's is."
[21:14] <Alicia_Reynes> "Demedais is rather handsome," Alicia admits upon her return from putting away the dishes. "And Seira has a certain exoticness to her that can't be denied. Hellman, too, has a coarse and rugged attractiveness... What you say is true, yes."