047.1 Reunion

[Corwin]

[21:08] <Kotono> By fate or coincidence, Jaela and company appear before Aurora's gates mere moments before Ithea and company likewise appear, almost running smack into each other.
[21:10] <Ithea> "Hello, Jaela. Mirima, Gisfal too," Ithea greets Jaela then the other two with a nod.
[21:11] <Afina> "Hello Gisfal. And Jaela, Mirima. Good to see you two again," Afina nods in her own greeting, having gone a complete elemental transfiguration since the last time she saw those two.
[21:12] <Kotono> Mirima returns the greetings, "We just got back from the Prime Material," she says, "We have three powerful sorceresses who want to join and are willing to offer their tower to Aurora. You?"
[21:14] <Afina> "Ithea killed a dragon that was guarding a terrible evil on the plane of Earth and we had to make amends for that, and the superweapon against devils I went to so much trouble obtaining will turn my body into a conduit for horrors beyond Creation," Afina replies pleasantly, finding something funny in the contrast even if the situations really aren't.
[21:14] <Jaela> "We're also merging their home with the Aurora, actually," Jaela adds to that. "Tepen and Elena think it'll work out great, but we need Aurora to spend a few days on that world."
[21:14] <Ithea> "We might be losing Arrel, and Afina plans to get rid of the Blade," Ithea says with a nod right after Afina.
[21:14] * Jaela blinks.
[21:14] <Kotono> "I think we win," Mirima half smirks as you head within, "Beshaba strikes you that hard?"
[21:15] <Afina> "On the plus side I managed to become part water without dying horribly?" Afina finds one silver lining in her recent life.
[21:15] <Jaela> "I actually heard about the Blade from Mom, but... ah well." Jaela shrugs. "I'm sure you had no other choice, Ithea."
[21:15] * Jaela nods at Afina. "It really suits you!"
[21:16] <Kotono> "Congratulations," Gisfal nods solemnly.
[21:16] <Kotono> As you head you see Elena appear, "Good timing," she calls, "Um, we have a problem."
[21:16] <Ithea> "I tend to put the blame on Tiamat, but that's about right, Mirima," Ithea says with a snort.
[21:16] <Jaela> "Where and how bad?"
[21:16] * Afina turns attentively to Elena, amusing conversation forgotten.
[21:16] * Ithea also wonders what Elena has to say and turns to listen to the ghostly one!
[21:16] <Kotono> "Morniel's going over in the meeting room. Command staff should report right away," she says, "Adrian's already there."
[21:17] <Jaela> "And the rest of it is here. Sure, let's go."
[21:17] <Ithea> "Good timing indeed, I suppose," Ithea murmurs before nodding, as she starts heading towards the meeting room.
[21:18] <Afina> "Lets go, then," Afina nods, fluttering into Aurora to portal there.
[21:20] <Kotono> From there, the three and Gisfal head to the meeting room. On the table is a single fist sized lump of what looks to be cold iron. At the least, it gives Afina the shivers just looking at it, and Gisfal gives it an entirely disdainful look. "Three hours ago," Morniel reports as everyone settles again, "This appeared outside of Aurora along with this," Morniel places a ring down on the table, "A
[21:20] <Kotono> ring that gives a constant shield against magical intrusions and scrying. I've confirmed that it's Tannin's." Pausing for just a moment, "This lump of iron is enchanted...hold on just a moment." he says, going to press his hand into the iron, which molds like soft putty.
[21:21] <Kotono> "Wasn't that made to prevent this happening," Adrian says with a weary rub of the bridge of his nose, before his hand goes down to his amulet. "That cost no small amount of money."
[21:21] * Afina waits for the message before commenting herself.
[21:21] <Jaela> Looking cross, Jaela adds, "Not to mention the means of a swift escape."
[21:22] * Ithea just frowns and waits for all the information.
[21:29] <Kotono> After a moment of pressing his hand into the lump, a dry voice begins to speak. "Tannin Darkbrooke is currently in my possession. You know me as Kylsarm. Tannin is safe and no harm has come on him, despite the offensive arrogance your lapdog's interference." There's a moment's pause as the soft iron writhes about, starting to spin clockwise. "I will free him in exchange for a promise of
[21:29] <Kotono> non-aggression and non-interference from Aurora. I have no dealings with devils and no desires to be dragged into your war with them."
[21:30] <Jaela> "Huh. That's a great way to ensure non-aggression."
[21:30] * Ithea slaps her forehead at that. "What the heck did Tannin do when he was looking for information on this guy? Sneak right into his dimension?" Ithea murmurs then sighs. "Fuck, this is another of my messes then."
[21:30] <Kotono> "Our reputation precedes us," Adrian mutters darkly, "Refresh me, kitten, but Kylsarm's a side project and nothing directly related to the devils. Right?"
[21:31] <Afina> "Wait, he wasn't captured by devils?" Afina blinks, utterly confused now. "Who's Kylsarm?"
[21:31] <Kotono> "This ring hasn't been disenchanted?" Gisfal takes the ring and gives it a study, holding it up to the light, "How in the 666 layers of the Abyss did he get found out in the first place?"
[21:31] <Ithea> "Kylsarm's a wizard that likes to kidnap people and hold them ransom for a chance to learn new spells. That's all I know about that guy, well that and he's holding four people hostage that I was asked to look into freeing."
[21:32] <Ithea> "I'd asked Tannin to see if he could dig up more information on this guy since I didn't really know much else."
[21:32] <Afina> "And you sent Tannin after him alone?"
[21:32] <Afina> "Oh, just information. Clearly he wasn't subtle... well fine, lets give him what he wants. He's nothing to do with our Crusade, I've no problem promising non-aggression to him."
[21:33] <Kotono> "Something must have gone catastrophically wrong." Morniel's observation is cool and collected, "Tannin's been effective before, even on difficult assignments. With a constant mind blank spell active on him, I struggle to understand how he was detected and captured."
[21:33] <Kotono> "Seconded," Adrian says, "He sounds like a bastard, but so's everyone in the Abyss, and we aren't fighting them."
[21:34] <Ithea> "I'm wondering that too, the only thing I can think of is that he just couldn't find anything at all on the guy and decided to risk sneaking into his territory."
[21:35] <Kotono> "I wonder if we can find out?" Gisfal says, "If he's developed a scrying or divination counter measure to Mind Blank, we could put it to good use. Barring that, we could put him down as good use, too."
[21:37] <Jaela> "So who did he kidnap?" Jaela finally asks, after thinking it over.
[21:39] <Ithea> "Four nobles from Brightwater was the impression I got. The names I got were Lady Alla and Grea, and Lord Barr and Peasan," Ithea answers.
[21:40] <Jaela> "And who asked you to free them?"
[21:41] <Ithea> "A friend of Stille's known as Sir Delgauss."
[21:42] <Jaela> "Basically, if we agree to deal with this asshole, you'll be going back on your word there. That fine with you?"
[21:44] <Ithea> "I'd like to see if we can free any other prisoners he has besides Tannin, but if I can't, well..." Ithea sighs and shrugs. "I'll manage. Still, he's supposed to be willing to release people for a chance to learn new spells from what I heard. I'll give mine up to free Tannin now, if necessary."
[21:45] <Afina> "So you'll go to him," Afina begins, speaking slowly as she sets this all straight for her head and everyone else's, "And propose a deal to trade something for Tannin, without actually offering the non-aggression promise he wanted? So you can immediately attack him?"
[21:48] <Ithea> "No, I wasn't thinknig of attacknig him. Investigating him to see if that was a worthwhile endeavour was what got Tannin into this mess."
[21:48] <Afina> "So why trade anything away when you can just give him the promise of non-aggression to get Tannin back that way?" Afina asks blankly.
[21:49] <Jaela> "Besides. This is a kidnapping wizard. He's probably evil as fuck. Why empower him?"
[21:51] <Ithea> "I...think we somehow ended up on different tracks," Ithea says, also looking confused now. "I was saying I'd offer the spell up if necessary to free him. If he really does get released easily enough without a need for it, then great."
[21:53] <Afina> "But he said he'd give Tannin back if we promised not to interfere with him," Afina points out. "Why offer him more? If you try to offer him something else as an alternative he'll naturally be suspicious of betrayal, anyway."
[21:53] <Jaela> "My vote's for ending this guy. I'm sure he deserves it, if Stille's friends in Brightwater are opposing him, and he fucked with the wrong people when he kidnapped Tannin without any real aggression on our part." She looks over at the others. "Am I gonna get outvoted on this one?"
[21:56] * Ithea grunts. "I'll hold my vote back on this. As long as we get Tannin out of this mess, I don't care what method we go through."
[21:56] * Jaela glances towards Gisfal, then.
[21:58] <Kotono> "I say we eliminate him, but be mindful about doing it. If he's competent he won't be anywhere close to us and it would take a full out assault to have a chance. He's a powerful, reclusive wizard?" Asking as much as stating into the rhetorical, "He could have a squad of tamed balors supported by bound eye tyrants for all we know. I vote for taking him down if possible."
[21:59] <Kotono> "Could," Adrian counters, "That sounds worst case. I say we just give him the damn agreement since we have enough enemies, but from the fact he's trying to secure his safety means he's at least somewhat worried about us, right?"
[21:59] <Jaela> "Charging in blindly is dumb," Jaela agrees. "I'm fine with doing it properly, of course."
[22:01] * Jaela frowns. "There's also the part where if he's sneaky, this benefits him more than it does us. He's saying he has no intention of getting involved, but what if that's not true? And if he has some means of scrying past the normal limits? Passing on info to the devils won't be aggression, so he could do that."
[22:02] <Kotono> "If he's that good, there is an alternative. A distasteful one," Adrian makes a face, "We could try to quietly befriend him? Get him to give up the kidnapping in exchange for lore and support? It'll sink us like full plate in water our allies find out, though."
[22:03] <Kotono> *if our
[22:03] <Afina> "He could also be a secret alter ego of Asmodeus," Afina groans wearily. "Look, he was perfectly right to do far far worse to Tannin than what he claims. Just give him the minor thing he's asked for so we can focus on our real enemies."
[22:05] <Jaela> "It won't be the first time we get involved in something not directly related to our Crusade," Jaela points out. "And like the Imperium business, this could reflect on our reputation with Brightwater and maybe even others, if they had dealings with him."
[22:05] <Kotono> "I agree with Afina, insofar as this speculation is a waste of time," Morniel says. "He's ultimately offering a civil solution to what could be a far uglier incident. We were caught snooping," he says, "Besides, he wants Aurora to leave him be." With a hint of a smile, "Thta does not mean Aurora's unrelated friends cannot give him a bad time of it."
[22:06] <Afina> "An excellent suggestion, Morniel," Afina approves. "I think you're all forgetting that if we go in attacking, he could have Tannin dead and descrated before we're through his front door."
[22:08] <Jaela> "It's a very real risk," Jaela agrees.
[22:09] <Ithea> "So we do make a deal with him then?" Ithea asks.
[22:10] <Jaela> "It's kinda your call here. Unless you're abstaining and we have Elena tiebreak?"
[22:11] <Afina> "You got us into this, Ithea. You have a responsibility to Tannin and the rest of us to decide," Afina tells her.
[22:11] <Ithea> "So much for holding my vote then. Fine, we'll deal with him. My priority here is getting Tannin out of this mess," Ithea says.
[22:12] <Kotono> Nodding, "I have friends in the Bringers of Hope, who have friends who would be more than willing to do favors for them," Morniel says. "By your leave, I shall depart and begin the steps to make it so."
[22:13] <Jaela> "I'll abide by the decision," Jaela says, nodding. "But spare me from shaking his decepit hand or signing anything, if you can."
[22:14] <Ithea> "Alright."
[22:14] <Jaela> "Right, then. Since everyone's here, I'll inform you of my intention to take the Aurora to the Prime world of Alere for a few days to merge the wizard tower of our new allies into it. Any objections?"
[22:15] <Afina> "At least keep us off the ground to avoid people wandering up to the gates," Afina replies. "And keep all our forces on alert, the devils might think we're an easier target there than in Ysgard."
[22:17] <Jaela> "Of course," Jaela agrees. "And the location itself is remote, and not widely known. It should be fine, especially with those precautions." She is about to stand up, before asking, "I guess the Arrel matter is next?"
[22:17] <Kotono> "I'll be gone for it," Adrian speaks up, "I have that diplomatic negotiation with the Lannark Imperium. All signs are pointing favorably to it, fortunately. Hopefully we can resolve that, get the lillend's help and put that distraction behind us."
[22:18] <Afina> "Good job, Adrian," Afina gives him a smile, "I haven't kept up on that matter, but I'm glad you've got it moving peacefully."
[22:20] <Kotono> "I'll have a full report when it's done. It's boring as hell," So admitting with a sigh, "But better than another war. Give me a battlefield after this."
[22:20] <Kotono> "In any case," Gisfal turs to Jaela, "Arrel?"
[22:21] <Kotono> Morniel lingers for now at least.
[22:22] <Jaela> "You're not the only one who wants a good fight against devils," Jaela tells Adrian with a snort. At Gisfal's question, she shrugs. "Ithea and Afina mentioned that he's being recruited, seems like."
[22:23] <Afina> "I have plans for a new operation, but it'll wait until I've settled the Blade of Endings," Afina puts in, letting Ithea explain about her activities on Earth for herself.
[22:24] <Ithea> "Sir Delgauss gave us another job on Earth that led to an unfortunate encounter with a guardian dragon due to Bahamut and Tiamat's curses. An ancient prison almost broke and Lady Sunnis wishes for Arrel to replace the dragon we fought as its guardian," Ithea explains to Gisfal.
[22:25] <Ithea> "I said I would have to ask Arrel, as I was not going to make the decision for him."
[22:25] <Jaela> "I hate to say this, but Arrel isn't a dragon. He's a giant eagle."
[22:26] * Ithea snorts. "I did mention that part to Lady Sunnis. Figured he might feel a little cramped down on Earth. He does like gems like a dragon though, so who really knows except him?"
[22:28] <Kotono> "He's the closest we have save Baleruk," Adrian says, "Maybe it's a symbolic gesture?"
[22:29] * Ithea just shrugs to that.
[22:29] <Afina> "If Arrel isn't interested I'll volunteer my golem to her service instead," Afina says.
[22:30] <Jaela> "Morniel," Jaela speaks up. "What do you think about recruiting a suitable guardian not out of our forces? Would you have any leads on dragons, or others worthy of serving Lady Sunnis in this?"
[22:33] <Kotono> "It could be done,
[22:33] <Kotono> OOC: Gah.
[22:36] <Kotono> "It could be done," Morniel stands, hands behind his back, "But it could be a political mis-step, depending on what exactly Princess Sunnis desires from this. If it is merely a guardian? I see no difficulties. If it is more of a symbolic or reparatative gesture, it may incur her wrath, as we are essentially skirting our responsiblities to another. Moreover, as an Archomental, Lady Sunnis has
[22:36] <Kotono> many allies who could serve as a guardian, ones better suited to the duty. I therefore question the wisdom in doing so, but it could be done."
[22:36] <Jaela> "Even putting Arrel's interests aside for a moment," Jaela states, "have you seen him train or fight? His style is about swooping down upon the enemy, and otherwise flying out of reach. That's not suited one bit for a guardian of anything on Earth. Symbolism is fine and important, but if we do what we're told instead of offering Lady Sunnis the best we can manage, we're doing this wrong. What if we returned and told her as much?"
[22:37] <Kotono> "Then you're opening renegotiations," Morniel replies, "Shall I soujourn to Earth after Mount Celestia and inquire about this?"
[22:37] <Afina> "My golem is perfect except for being mindless," Afina puts in. "It can fit through tunnels much smaller than you'd think from its size, and its steps cause small earthquakes that would work far better underground."
[22:38] <Kotono> "If the mindless thing isn't a problem, send the golem," Adrian says, "Better a thinking mind on our side."
[22:39] <Jaela> "If we could supply the golem," Jaela muses, "and arranged for a volunteer who would guard that place and command it, then we would do more than what Lady Sunnis asked for in the first place. Then, we can seek to open negotiations with her." She nods at Morniel. "How does that sound?"
[22:45] <Kotono> "It sounds reasonable," Morniel replies, "I see no immediate problem with it, as long as she agrees to switch from Arrel."
[22:45] <Afina> "We can't force him, I'm sure she understands that."
[22:47] <Jaela> "Let's sound him out, and then we can have you explore other options for us, Morniel."

[Corwin]

#ed

[20:07] <Kotono> The Jarl is found at the fields of Galuh. Two cloud giants are throwing stones and going at it to the cheers of all. He watches with an expert eye as Jaela approaches...
[20:08] <Jaela> "Hey. Keeping score?"
[20:09] <Kotono> "Yes," The Jarl nods once as a boulder comes crashing down, cheers erupting as it goes in the hole. "Now this is glory, is it not?"
[20:11] <Jaela> "I'm more of a fighting type, not so much with the games," Jaela responds, deciding to choose diplomacy. "It's really the reason I came, too. Are you guys doing alright? Getting enough evil to fight, have the proper gear for that?"
[20:12] <Kotono> Thumping a fist on his new greenstone belt, "This belt is magnificent!" he says, "Gear is not the problem. We grow restless, as it is clear we are still mustering for great battles."
[20:14] <Jaela> "Afina's got a plan for that, and we have several others coming up," Jaela tells him. "Between us, it's a matter of which one we're ready to go for first. But once we do? We'll keep on going on the offensive for a while, looks like."
[20:16] <Kotono> "Good," A lean smile comes over the Jarl's face, slamming his fists together, "My magic will find heavy work soon."
[20:19] * Jaela decides to give him another chance, on a whim. Maybe he really did improve after all this time. "Sure thing," she says with a nod. "Anyway, there was one more thing I wanted to ask. Two things, really, but both related. Ever felt like returning to Elysium for a brief visit? And if we ever did, think we could lure any of your pals into our ranks? If our past victories aren't glorious enough for our banner, like I said, we're gonna have a few pretty damn soon."
[20:20] <Kotono> "With a good win under our belts, yes," The Jarl says, "Something to rally them to us."
[20:21] <Jaela> "The Lifasa raids are too stale by now, you figure?"
[20:26] <Kotono> "A bigger name always helps, a bigger brag!" The Jarl says, "Something to be a story to shake the stars!"
[20:28] <Jaela> "We can do that," Jaela agrees. "What about the other thing? Any homesickness? Itchings for a quick visit?"
[20:30] <Kotono> "No," Shaking his head, "I like Aurora!" Gesturing wide, "There are battles, drinking and Galuh, and Dana keeps my healing spells well honed."
[20:31] <Jaela> "Yeah what's up with that. Liking pain, liking death. I don't get it. Do you?"
[20:34] <Kotono> "She insists it is to help me practice," The Jarl laughs, slapping his stomach, "She does not fool me, but better she does so around someone who can limit her destructive impulses and ensure no lasting harm is done." His laughter driesup at that, "Her mind is diseased and she is too willful to let go. Unfortunately, there is little to do with a patience who refuses treatment, save for locking
[20:34] <Kotono> them away for their own good."
[20:35] <Jaela> "Huh. You think it's an actual disease? Like she got hit on the head too hard one day and it healed badly, or she got sick one day and didn't get cured properly?"
[20:41] <Kotono> "Anything is possible," The Jarl admits a moment, glancing over as the thump of a boulder is followed by another round of cheers. "I understand enough about the brain to know I know almost nothing about it, and the soul's involved with personality too. If it was a physical ailment, all the Heal spells I've used on her would right it."
[20:43] <Jaela> "Huh," she repeats. "Jarl, think you could get together with Priest some time and describe all that crazy shit? Discrete-like, I mean. And then ask him for a couple divinations to make sure, one way or the other."
[20:44] <Kotono> "Now that," Slamming his fist into his palm, "Is a great idea! I'll bring over a keg of reinforced ale and we'll get to the bottom of it!"
[20:44] * Jaela punches his shoulder, as seems to be the thing to do in these situations. "Go for it!"
[20:48] <Kotono> The Jarl does the same, literally rocking Jaela's world! As the stars clear he's already going off, whistling a merry tune.
[20:55] <Kotono> From there Jaela flies out of Aurora, finding Drena. Around Aurora dozens of air elementals and nymphs riding butterflies, racing along. Dotted about are phase spiders, spitting up gobs of webbing at the racers! It's a frantic race of speed and doding, Drena observing it all. Ebony and Canderella are a bit off to the side and talking, while a crowd watches.
[20:56] <Jaela> "What the fuck am I watching," Jaela mutters in disbelief.
[21:03] <Kotono> As Jaela watches in disbelief, Canderella takes to wing, coming to Jaela. "Ah, stricken by the beauty of it," she asks in a sensual purr, lips cracking with electricity. "I personally think it is evocative of certain pleasures, if you look at the white webbing the right way."
[21:04] <Kotono> Ebony follows with a sedate smile, "Do not disrepect your superior officers by teasing them," she chastises, "I apologize, General Jaela," she inclines her head down with that, "Is this your first time watching?"
[21:04] <Jaela> "Hey Candy," Jaela says absent-mindedly, without looking at the succubus. "The nymphs on butterflies thing is already past my weirdness quota, but thanks for the help." She shakes her head. "Alright. I'm over it now. Hey, Ebony."
[21:08] <Kotono> Ebony inclines her head again, "They are from the fey courts," she explains, "Would you care to join us?"
[21:10] <Jaela> "Yeah that explains everything," Jaela responds, nodding sagely. She laughs, then. "I kinda figured Drena might've been feeling neglected and not utilized properly so I figured I'd look for him and see if he has any ideas on how to best use his expertise. But it seems like he's pretty much done that already?"
[21:11] <Kotono> "He's been applying himself," Canderella speaks up, "How was your vacation? Mirima's been in a fine mood since she returned, but why don't you tell me anyway?""
[21:12] <Jaela> "There were fountains. A genius old elf wizard made them."
[21:14] <Kotono> "Whatever makes her happy," Canderella's interest seems to flag near instantly, turning back to watching the frantically flying racers. A butterfly nymph gets globbed as she turns back, making a painful, loud crash landing.
[21:16] <Jaela> "There was a good looking, strong prince back there," Jaela adds. "Totally seemed your type."
[21:23] <Kotono> "Royalty isn't worth it," Canderella says, "They want children, and the moment they see a half fiend birth? Problem."
[21:24] <Jaela> "Did you run into that problem with people who actually knew what you were?" Jaela asks curiously.
[21:27] <Kotono> "Never tried it that way," Canderella admits.
[21:31] <Jaela> "Could be just me, but people really hate being lied to," Jaela says with a shrug. "Of course, there are people like Mom who really would hate you no matter what if you tried to marry into the family."
[21:40] <Kotono> "I noticed your mother isn't fond of me," Canderella says lightly.
[21:41] <Jaela> "Probably some bad personal experience with a succubus aiming for a boyfriend or a kid?"
[21:43] <Kotono> "Something. Maybe I should try getting ot know her better?" Canderella smiles, "What do you think, Jaela? Should I spend more time with Hanna?"
[21:44] <Jaela> "You'll die," Jaela tells her, returning that smile.
[21:50] <Kotono> "Aaah, too bad," Canderella says, "Well..." Glancing at Ebony, "You're welcome to join us if you like," she says, starting to go back.
[21:51] <Jaela> "Just what are the two of you doing?" Jaela asks curiously, glancing at Ebony herself.
[21:55] <Kotono> "Watching," Ebony replies, "The phase spiders prefer it when I am here. They become attached to those they are comfortable around, much like children."
[21:56] * Jaela winces. "Ah." That's not a topic she wants to linger on, so she changes it quickly. "So since you've been watching Drena and Candy, then? Are they doing okay? Need anything, want anything?"
[22:08] <Kotono> "They're fine," Ebony replies, "Drena applies himself and Canderella has been absorbed in her sword studies."
[22:09] <Jaela> "And yourself? Are you getting enough time to be with that girl from Fire?"
[22:15] <Kotono> "She's healing," Ebony murmurs, and with a wry smile, "By whatever vagary of fate, she gets along better with Canderella than I."
[22:16] <Jaela> "You don't say?"
[22:23] <Kotono> "After a lifetime of being commanded, she responds better to Canderella's more liberated nature," Ebony explains, a hint of a smile showing as she adjusts her hood.
[22:25] <Jaela> "I doubt there's anyone more liberated this side of a slaad," Jaela agrees with a snort. "So that's nothing, then? For either of you guys? I'm kinda happy the Aurora's working as a decent home. Kinda disappointed there's nothing to do for me here, too. I guess it evens out."
[22:27] <Kotono> Ebony smiles. A real smile, "I've seen the worst of the mind and the best. From this I have learned the precious value of happiness." Reaching out to put a hand on Jaela's shoulder, "You are not the only one who tends to the happiness of others in Aurora."
[22:33] <Jaela> "Right. Yeah." Jaela coughs. "Sure thing. I guess I'll head back and leave you guys to this training thing?"
[22:35] <Kotono> Ebony removes her hand, "Is something the matter?" she asks, quietly, as the race continues above.
[22:36] <Jaela> "Nah. I'm glad there's plenty of people here who do that sorta thing."
[22:39] <Kotono> "As you command, then," Ebony says, "Do you require me for anything else?"
[22:45] <Jaela> "Nah, I'm good. I think I'll help out Gisfal and then head back to Mirajane. Stop by some time?"
[22:55] <Kotono> "I will," Ebony says, "Thank you."
[22:56] <Jaela> With a wave, Jaela heads back inside Aurora proper.

[Corwin]

#d

[20:06] <Kotono> Arrel is found in the courtyard, Kascha sitting at his feet. The two are talking quietly, Kascha scribbing away in an oversized book that covers her entire lap.
[20:08] <Ithea> "Hello Arrel, Kascha," Ithea calls out in greeting as she approaches. "Sorry to interrupt your discussion."
[20:10] <Kotono> Arrel looks questioningly at Ithea - as much as a giant dragon-eagle can. "You need Kascha for her magic?"
[20:13] * Ithea shakes her head. "Actually, it's you we need to speak to today, Arrel. Have you heard on the rumor mill anything about what went on in Earth recently?" she asks.
[20:15] <Kotono> "No," Arrel says as Kascha looks up from her scribblings. In the meanwhile, two enter the main gate of Aurora. Muirfinn and Sylvie step in, chatting about something or another.
[20:17] * Muirfinn breaks away from his conversation, nodding at the group. "Ah, hello all."
[20:17] <Afina> Spotting Sylvie, Afina resolves to speak with her promptly, but for now she'll support Ithea here.
[20:18] <Kotono> Sylvie follows along, a smile on her face as she whistles. She nods and hangs back a moment.
[20:20] <Ithea> "Hello Muirfinn, Sylvie," Ithea greets the two before focusing on Arrel. "Well, what you need to know there is that there was a sapphire dragon, Yilastranpaxal, guarding the prison of an ancient being called Zalmoch. The sapphire dragon died, due to my actions, and Lady Sunnis who crafted the prison, is seeking a new guardian for it. She was hoping for you, it seems, and I said that I would ask."
[20:24] * Afina smirks slightly at Ithea's delicate phrasing of murder.
[20:24] <Kotono> "Me? Why me?" Arrel stares down, eagle eyes meeting Ithea's cat eyes. "Why would this Lady Sunnis even know of me?"
[20:26] <Muirfinn> OOC: Roll something to know who Lady Sunnis is?
[20:27] <Kotono> OOC: K:P.
[20:27] <Muirfinn> roll 1d20+22
[20:27] * Hatbot --> "Muirfinn rolls 1d20+22 and gets 28." [1d20=6]
[20:28] <Ithea> "Didn't you have something to ask Sylvie?" Ithea asks Afina with a hmph at Afina's smirk. Focusing back on Arrel, "Lady Sunnis asked to see my mind when I went to make amends for the death of Yilastranpaxal, and she thought you right for the job because of your draconic heritage. But given that this prison is on Earth, and that this would be a job lasting decades if not longer, well..."
[20:29] <Muirfinn> "She's the Princess of Elemental Good on Earth, Arrel." Muirfinn adds helpfully.
[20:29] <Kotono> "Earth?" Beak clashing down at that, like a discordant note, "The land of no skies?"
[20:30] <Ithea> "If you have little interest, know that Afina has offered an alternative, as have others, and we can bring those offers to Lady Sunnis. Still, I said I would ask this of you," Ithea replies, nodding at Arrel's question. "And yes, that's one of the things that I commented on to her."
[20:30] <Afina> "This is strictly voluntary," Afina says, ignoring Ithea's hmphing. "We don't want to lose you, but the request was made so it's merely being passed on."
[20:31] <Kotono> "Hm?" Sylvie speaks up at that, "What do you need me for now? I just got back."
[20:32] <Kotono> Arrel thrusts one wing out, as if pointing upwards to the sky, "What is this, some dreary, skyless prison of cold stone, devoid of bravery and treasure?"
[20:34] * Ithea smiles a bit at that dramatic answer. "That sounds like a pretty clear 'thanks, but no thanks' to me."
[20:34] <Afina> "Yes," Afina flutters over to Sylvie, leaving the rest to Ithea until or unless she's called upon to provide a golem. "The blade of endings has bigger problems than I realised, and I need to send it back where it came from. Ithea told me you'd know how to get to the far realm."
[20:35] <Ithea> "The tomes of obscenity," Ithea throws helpfully towards Sylvie. "I think you last had 'em, right?"
[20:35] <Kotono> Sylvie pauses to rub her head, sending a glance to Muirfinn, "It never ends, does it?" she asks, "I didn't even make it back to my room."
[20:35] * Muirfinn shrugs. "We all pay a price for the crusade we're on."
[20:35] <Kotono> "I have them," she adds, "So you want to travel beyond Creation?"
[20:37] <Afina> "I wasn't going to bother you right now, but I think Ithea wants rid of me," Afina admits with a shrug. "We can do it later so you can relax for now."
[20:39] <Kotono> "Any of you involved, come meet in my room in an hour," Sylvie says, "I'll walk you through it then." Stretching, "Thanks for coming, Muirfinn." With a suddenly, mischevious smile she goes over and on her tiptoes gives him a hug, "Even if I nearly froze to death." Turning back to the others, "By the way, the head of the Crimson Guard wants ot meet with us in a few weeks, more information coming."
[20:39] <Ithea> "I'm not trying to get rid of you," Ithea says with a sniff, as she turns back to Arrel. "Anyway, that was really all I wanted to ask of you. Glad to know you'd rather stick around here."
[20:40] <Kotono> "Indeed it is a no," Arrel says, "If it was a prison of gold and jewels it might allure, but it sounds a miserable duty. Have I offended this Sunnis without knowledge?" ARrel frowns.
[20:40] <Afina> "Thanks, I'll speak to you later," Afina nods, leaving Sylvie alone.
[20:42] <Ithea> "No, you didn't offend her. If anyone's likely to have offended her it'd have been me, and she seemed pretty nice, honestly, Arrel," Ithea answers honestly. "The prison does have a lot of crystals and gems, I think Lady Sunnis felt that was indeed enough of an allure, I don't know. We figured that the ability to not really stretch your wings would not nearly make up for it though, which is why we'd already discussed possible alternatives."
[20:47] <Kotono> "I'll decline," Arrel says with finality.
[20:49] * Ithea just nods to that.
[20:50] <Afina> "Golem, come here!" Afina calls loudly, causing the enormous six-legged dog-like golem with giant hammer arms to come trampling its way over to them, shaking the ground underfoot. "I'm going to miss this. I've never managed to get enough money to build another even though I've known how for a while. Well, shall we return to Sunnis?"

[Corwin]

#t

[20:53] <Kotono> After rest, Adrian, Muirfinn and Kascha meet. Adrian is dressed up finely, armor polished, body clean and a whiff of cologne about him. "Right," he announces, as the trio stands in a quiet corner of the library, "Here's our revised agenda. WE're going to go out, meet up with Arrel and proceed to the Infinite Stairway. We will be met there by Vivantha and a delegation of the lillend, who
[20:53] <Kotono> will come with us to the negotiations over the Chauswyrm."
[20:55] * Muirfinn nods. "Hopefully we can resolve this without further difficulty." Muirfinn buffs absently at the lacquer applied to his shell.
[20:57] <Kotono> "I hope so," Kascha says, clad in white and pale orange silks. The cling and wrap around her body, making her appear otherworldly, an ethereal passing fantasy.
[20:57] <Kotono> "Our main objective here is to mediate if needed, as we are a third party," ADrian continues, "If both sides are agreeable, we may only have to sit by and ensure the negotiations go without any blockages. Questions?"
[21:01] * Muirfinn shakes his head. "It would be wise, I think, to expect at least some form of difficulty. These people are at least partially draconic, and that means big egos."
[21:01] <Muirfinn> "I am hoping for the best. We should simply be prepared."
[21:05] <Kotono> "Yes. We have a few hours of leeway if yo uhave any last preparations," Adrian says. Kascha shakes her head at that, "I'm ready."
[21:07] <Muirfinn> "I am ready." Muirfinn says.
[21:09] <Kotono> With that the trio heads out. You find Arrel waiting just past the gates. "I've had Arrel scout out the path to the ruins where the nearest entry to the Infinite Stair is," A glance over at Muirfinn, "You're familiar with it already, so let's get moving. Hopefully the natives won't be trouble...in fact, they've largely left Aurora be."
[21:12] <Muirfinn> "The natives? On Ysgard?"
[21:13] <Kotono> "Warriors and roving battles of all kinds, as well as the native creatures," Kascha speaks up, "Since death does not matter on Ysgard, they are often eager to battle anything. "
[21:13] <Kotono> "I'd expected more trouble, even if it's friendly trouble," Adrian says, "But we've had peace, both from Hell and the natives."
[21:14] <Muirfinn> "Well yes, but it IS Ysgard, and it is a good-aligned plane. I gather that they understand what we're about and thusly leave us out of their games."
[21:16] <Kotono> "That or someone higher up is doing us a favor," Adrian states, "Being safe was the point of coming to Ysgard. I wonder if one of our prayers has been answered." He smiles briefly at that, "It hardly matters right now. Let's get moving instead of navel gazing."
[21:18] * Muirfinn nods.
[21:23] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 41." [1d100=41]
[21:23] <Kotono> roll 1d100
[21:23] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d100 and gets 28." [1d100=28]
[21:26] <Kotono> Your trip to the ruins is without incident. On reaching the door there, you find someone waiting outside of it. Vivantha is there, clad in gold jewelry all over, as well as plates molded into her skin, decorted to the nines. "Muirfinn! Brave hero!" she calls.
[21:28] * Muirfinn waves. "Hello!"
[21:30] <Kotono> Flying forward she comes and gives Muirfinn a hug, "Welcome! Everyone's waiting for you, and they have a palaquin ready!"
[21:32] * Muirfinn accepts the hug, looking only vaguely uncomfortable with the gesture. "Good, good. Hopefully we can resolve this soon."
[21:42] <Kotono> "I hope so," Kascha echos asyou head within. The platform on the Infinite Stair is packed! Lillends fly all about, clad in gold plates or golden armor. Sitting before the door is a vast palanquin, big enough for a dozen to ride comfortably, the interior draped with gauze and yet completely opaque green silks. Vivantha goes to it and slides one of the silks open, "You're to ride in here."
[21:42] <Muirfinn> "Thank you." Muirfinn says as he clambers inside.
[21:47] <Kotono> Within is warm and soft. All is silken pillows and floor, as if begging you to lie down. Resting within is one lillend. She is beautiful, as they all are. She has pure white hair, so long that it braids around her body several, forming a layered cocoon save for her face. Within her braids are hundreds of golden decorations, gemstudded all over. Resting before her is a lyre, of fine make
[21:47] <Kotono> and inlaid with silver. "Representatives of Aurora," The lillend speaks, "I am Tealua of the Ten Notes."
[21:58] <Muirfinn> "Greetings. I am Muirfinn of the Aurora." Muirfinn says, giving a half bow as he is somewhat not upright.
[22:08] <Kotono> "Adrian Barnan of Aurora," Adrian comes in and sits, as Kascha does the same. "Kascha of the Cauldron and Aurora," she appends.
[22:09] <Kotono> Vivantha kneels momentarily before sitting next to Muirfinn.
[22:10] <Kotono> "Thank you for your help," she replies, "With the added diplomatic pressure Aurora has added, a breakthrough has occured. Soon this foolish war can be put to rest." Her voice is sonorous, bringing a soothing, painless fatigue to you. Like the feeling as you drift off to sleep, warm underneath your blankets.
[22:11] * Muirfinn nods. "I'm glad that we are able to help resolve this peacefully."
[22:20] <Kotono> "WIth fortune, it will be," Tealua says, "It will not be a long trip. You may rest until we arrive, if you desire."
[22:25] <Muirfinn> "I must admit that I am curious. Why exactly is inside the Chauswyrm that makes it so very valuable? I believe I understand that it is a dragon, but why has it not hatched yet?"
[22:30] <Kotono> "We have made it so that it is not able to hatch," She explains, as Vivantha drifts off to sleep. Kascha soon follows, though Adrian sits up and makes a show of fighting it off. "The creature within is of uncaring chaos and ill omens," she explains, "As long as it is bound it is harmless, useful for augmenting chaotic magic."
[22:34] * Muirfinn nods. "An unbalanced creature, then, full of evil and destruction. Good that it is kept under wraps then. Why not simply destroy it?"
[22:36] <Kotono> "We do not have the power. If we fail and it hatches? The prophecies are that it will end the lillend race." So admitting, "The creature within will be hostile to all life tied to scales - from the lillend, to your people and to other dragons as well."
[22:39] <Muirfinn> "Ah, I see. A terrible foe." Muirfinn says, tapping his beak. "Let us hope then that it will be well cared for."
[22:42] <Kotono> "Mmm, yes. In the last few days we have had diplomatic breakthroughs - in a large part because of Aurora helping to render their initial position untenable," Tealua explains, "The Lannark motives are conflicted - I have received back door diplomacy from three different dragons within the Imperium, none of them seeming to be aware of the other efforts."
[22:45] * Muirfinn snorts. "I'm sure. Dragons are creatures of both great power and ego. They often think they are outsmarting each other. Sometimes they are. Sometimes they are not."
[22:45] <Kotono> "Devils are much the same," Adrian says, "This is familiar territory, eh?"
[22:45] * Muirfinn nods.

[Corwin]

#d

[21:01] <Kotono> A transport later and you return into the crystalline realm of Sunnis and Entemoch. When you appear you are not entombed in crystal, but instead standing before two thrones. Vast mineral riches forged into a castle blind you - but only for a moment, as the luster ahead dims even them. Entemoch and Sunnis sit on identical thrones, both carved of pure ruby, each surely worth enough to purchase
[21:01] <Kotono> kingdoms on the material world. Lord Entemoch looks disinterested, only faintly paying attention. Lady Sunis is more collected, "Welcome back, Aurora," she greets.
[21:02] * Afina kneels before the two rulers but lets Ithea handle the explanations.
[21:05] <Ithea> "Thank you," Ithea replies with a bow to both Entemoch and Sunnis. "Lady Sunnis, I regret to inform you that Arrel felt that he must decline your request. As I had suspected, his desire to fly the skies mattered much more to him. My companion, Afina, has offered an alternative solution that we hope might please you. If not, we will gladly hunt for other possible guardians that you might approve of and that would excel in the role of guardian."
[21:06] <Kotono> Sage Vul'lath kneels as well, behind both generals. Lady Sunnis spares the golem but a glance, "Interesting." Her radiant gaze focuses all on Ithea, seeming to surround her with the luster of a hundred gemstones held to the sun. "Aurora is an army. Why did you not order him to do so?"
[21:15] <Ithea> "He came to us of his own free will, joined our crusade out of respect," Ithea answers. "This is a noble task, yes, but it is not what he joined us for. He does not follow us because we hold the power over him. You said it before...I am his face, but not his mind." Ithea returns Lady Sunnis' words to her as she bows her head. "It was not something I could command of him."
[21:17] <Kotono> "Hah, hah, hah," Lord Entemoch laughs aloud, "I told you her mind was permeable." He turns his gaze to Lady Sunnis, "Go on, give them the speech about how they didn't give Yilastranpaxal a choice despite knowing he was likely mentally compromised and make your point."
[21:20] <Ithea> Ithea's face hardens. "I regret killing him, I'll admit that freely. We still drove him off once, with all sides injured but alive, and he made the choice to come after us again when we were attempting to leave the plane. Should we have just stood there and let him roast us?"
[21:21] <Kotono> "Your point is made," Lady Sunnis concededs without even looking at Lord Entemoch, keeping on Ithea instead. "You chose well. Arrel would have been miserable here, even if it won you my forgiveness. I had wondered if you were any better than a typical, plundering 'hero' from the mortal realms, slaying our friends and taking our treasures."
[21:29] <Ithea> "I...cannot entirely deny that I have given you good reason to not see me as much more than that," Ithea admits. Pausing, she asks, "So where do I stand with your court, Lady Sunnis, Lord Entemoch? I still seek to make amends if you will have them from me, even if I cannot offer Arrel."
[21:36] <Kotono> "You have earned that right," Lady Sunnis replies, "You did not shirk the responsibility for what you did. That alone puts you above the scavenging mortal thieves. For amends, the rocks and sapphire sea cried of being soiled by a fiend. From your mind, I saw it was a valeoloth. I would have it answer to me. I want you to find and capture it, then bring it to this court."
[21:37] * Afina stands up to speak, gesturing behind herself at the enormous stone titan. "In addition, we have not ignored your request for a replacement guardian. This is a slaughterstone behemoth of my own construction. Although its mindlessness limits its tactics and it has no ranged abilities, these can be overcome with proper placement of terrain. Such mindlessness also ensures it will never grow
[21:37] * Afina bored no matter now long its guardianship endures, and it is an exceptionally powerful combatant, particularly underground."
[21:41] * Ithea nods silently to the request to find the valeoloth, and as Afina explains the capabilities of the titan, she adds, "Afina has also crafted the shield, Tanthiad, a gift we hoped to present to you in our desire to make amends."
[21:48] <Kotono> "It's good work," Entemoch adds, "The behemoth alone is a fine step to amends, and between that and the shield, the monetary difference is hardly any great problem."
[21:49] <Kotono> Lady Sunnis rests her head on her hands, balls up beneath her chin. Here she ponders a moment, "Present your amends to me, then."
[21:50] * Ithea brings up the shield, leaving the commands of the titan to its creator.
[21:50] <Afina> Turning to the golem, Afina states, "Golem, forget all previous commands I have given you. From now on obey lady Sunnis as you have me," which should transfer its ownership and allegiance neatly enough.
[21:54] <Kotono> Tanthiad is presented, and a moment after that command the golem approaches. Lady Sunnis reaches out - somehow, the considerable space between her hand and the behemoth simply ceases to be or to matter, reaching out dozens of feet to run fingers along its head, the defiance of distance seeming perfectly natural and right. "Ithea, you gave me a creature of Earth such as this, while you created
[21:54] <Kotono> it, Afina?" Lady Sunnis asks.
[21:55] * Afina nods. "It is the first golem I have ever made, using ancient dwarven techniques."
[21:56] <Ithea> "Afina is the most impressive crafter I have ever met, much of what I use in battle was crafted by her hands," Ithea says.
[21:58] <Kotono> "I am pleased with both of you," Lady Sunnis says, as the stone behemoth changes. It becomes as crystal, veins of white crystal forming throughout its body. These grow - becoming diamond, the entire huge beast becoming nothing but that! "You have exceeded my expectations." Her voice has warmth to it, as Entemoch chuckles, "I was right. Aurora's reputation is entirely well deserved."
[22:00] * Ithea bows again in reply to that. "Thank you," is all she says this time.
[22:00] * Afina curiously eyes the change, wondering how it might work to craft one out of gem rather than rock... "As I said to Lord Entemoch, what happened was a tragic mistake. We are sincere in wishing to make amends."
[22:10] <Kotono> Lady Sunnis inclines her head, "Ithea and Afina, approach," she commands.
[22:11] * Ithea does so.
[22:11] * Afina flutters forward to land directly before the throne.
[22:13] <Kotono> Lady Sunnis holds her left arm out as her right arm reaches over! The crack of breaking crystal is heard as part of her arm is removed, healing in seconds before your eyes! This shard begins to flow and reshape, becoming a diamond mace! "This weapon will serve you well against the valeoloth," she says, presenting it to Ithea.
[22:15] * Ithea accepts the mace. "I will put it to good use against it," Ithea promises.
[22:17] <Kotono> The mace feels heavy in Ithea's hand, but not unpleasantly so. Weighty, as if with a heavy destiny. Then to Afina, her right hand removes part of her left hand! Again it heals a moment, the breakage becomign a small shard. "This shard will aid in the creation of another golem, giving it strength," she says, "As long as it is made of stone, metal, gem or mineral, and is not of Air."
[22:18] * Afina smiles as she accepts the shard. "Fortunately I do not know how to make any other kind."
[22:21] <Kotono> "That is pleasing." Turning her attention back to Ithea, "The mace you hold is powerful, but should a creature of evil ever come to hold it, a calamity will come to pass."
[22:23] * Ithea nods at the warning. "None shall ever get the chance to do so then."
[22:24] <Kotono> "Good. Our business is concluded for now. Bring me the valeoloth," Lady Sunnis commands.
[22:25] * Ithea nods a final time and bows to both Archomentals, before drawing away from Lady Sunnis and towards Sage Vul'lath.
[22:31] <Kotono> OOC: Heading back now?
[22:31] <Ithea> ooc: yes
[22:33] <Kotono> From there it's a quick trip back to Aurora. On reaching Sylvie's room, "Come in," a voice calls. It's not the voice of Sylvie but Balyss, and as you enter you find the two chatting. Balyss sits on the bed while Sylvie is rooting in her closet, "..so if that spell works right with perception..." she says, peeking out, "Oh. Balyss, I'll talk you later."
[22:34] <Kotono> "Another time," Balyss stands, "I heard you two just got back not long ago," she says, "Did your trip out go well?"
[22:35] <Afina> OOC: we'd have picked up Hanna since she's coming
[22:35] <Afina> "Better than expected," Afina agrees. "Surely better than this next trip we're planning will be."
[22:37] <Kotono> OOC: Okay.
[22:38] <Kotono> "I'll leave you all to it," Balyss says, "Selune watch over you." With that she excuses herself, Sylvie coming out from the closet, her arms laden with books.  "So what prompted the interest in beyond Creation?"
[22:39] <Afina> "The Blade of Endings," Afina supplies, fluttering over to find a seat. "I'd assumed it drew creatures from beyond to it, that eventually I'd have to fight them off if I kept using it. It doesn't, though. It creates a rift to beyond inside of my body if I use it."
[22:44] <Kotono> "Ugh." Sylvie puts the books down on her desk with a grunt, "Ithea, remind me of this the next time I say you make bad choices," she says, with a friendly smile. "So what do you want to do? Toss the Blade back into Beyond and forget about it?"
[22:45] <Afina> "That's exactly it," Afina nods. "If I hide it, no matter where in creation, there's a chance it'll be used again. Sending it back where it came from is the only choice."
[22:47] <Ithea> "Will sending it there destroy or unmake it?" Ithea asks curiously. "Or would it just, I don't know, 'float' there until someone has the bright idea of trying to get it once again?"
[22:48] <Afina> "It would just remain there," Afina confirms.
[22:55] <Ithea> "I suppose we should be glad that the tomes method is supposed to work only once," Ithea comments after some moments of thought.
[22:57] <Kotono> "It can go back to rotting there," Sylvie agrees.
[22:58] <Ithea> "Did you manage to figure the books out on your own, Sylvie, or is that something we'll have to do right now then?"
[23:00] <Kotono> "I have them more or less done, headaches and all. I can get us there and back - once."
[23:01] <Afina> "How long will we have to stay there or can we return immediately?"
[23:02] <Kotono> "I'm not sure," Sylvie says, "Even time can become relative there," So admitting, "It's not like we're going to go there and return to find 500 years have passed, but it may not quite work as we understand time."
[23:03] <Ithea> "Perhaps we should leave a warning through Elena first then, just in case."
[23:05] <Kotono> "I'll need a few days to prepare," Sylvie says, "I'd rather not leave right this instant anyway."
[23:05] <Afina> "That's fine. How was your trip home, anyway?" Afina asks, glad of a chance to ask now before diving into danger again.
[23:05] * Ithea nods. "Fair enough."
[23:07] <Kotono> "Tiring, wonderful, stressful?" Answering back, "It was a lot of things."
[23:08] <Ithea> "Really?" Ithea comments as she pats Sylvie in the back. Part of her wonders if her friend made peace with the rest of her friends and family, but decides not to ask right this very moment, instead just offering a smile. "Well, I'm glad it wasn't awful, at least."

[Corwin]

#ed

[19:41] <Kotono> Be it ever so humble...Afina at least has her quarters. A chance for mental rest and relaxation in light of the coming battle. This lasts until a knock on the door, ruining the gentle solitude and silence.
[19:43] <Afina> Opening her eyes and standing up from where she sits on the mattress, Afina looks towards the door and calls, "Come in."
[19:44] <Kotono> It is Crystal. She flutters in and sits atop a dresser, legs dangling off the side. "For all of the wonders of Aurora," she comments, "I wonder why they didn't make rooms better suited for our sizes?"
[19:46] <Afina> "It's malleable enough we could probably change it if we really wanted to," Afina observes, looking up at the other fairy.
[19:46] <Kotono> "It's not that important," Crystal says, "We're attacking them soon." A moment's silence after, "You're leading the assault in?"
[19:49] <Afina> "The plans aren't all finalised, but it's likely," Afina nods. "The goal this time isn't an assassination or a rescue. It's the complete destruction of the enemy fortress."
[19:52] <Kotono> To that Crystal nods slightly, "Afina, what our role in this battle be?"
[19:58] <Afina> "As I said, it's not final. But because of the nature of the negative energy plane we have to make certain concessions since only a relatively small number can be protected from its ravages," Afina begins. "The initial strike will be to fly Aurora directly into the castle, crushing its outer walls and mingling its area within the demiplane of Aurora so that we can engage the initial defenders
[19:58] <Afina> on our own territory. Then we'll send protected teams out to either lure more defenders back towards our own fortifications, or destabilise the structure of the castle and destroy magical laboratories and rallying points."
[20:01] <Kotono> "Mmm." Crystal nods, "If possible, I would like to fight with you," she says, "You shouldn't be alone representing the fey of Lifasa."
[20:05] <Afina> "We're all fighting this one no matter where we are," Afina points out, "But if you feel safer having me watching your back I'll take that into consideration," she adds with a subtle smirk.
[20:08] <Kotono> Crystal chuckles softly, "Doubtless you'll feel safer with a heroic paladin engaging the devils and walking dead ahead of you."
[20:11] <Afina> "Rather than devils, it's spectres you should be more wary of," Afina cautions. "Incorporeal undead will likely make potent defenders in that place."
[20:15] <Kotono> "I can ward myself and Hope," Crystal says with a hint of a smile, "I worry more for the common soldier."
[20:19] <Afina> "Yes, it's going to be important for the warriors to protect the clerics from devils and stitched together undead, while the clerics protect the warriors from ghosts and the like." Standing up now, "In fact, I'm going to see about organising some drills to focus on that sort of teamwork."
[20:20] <Kotono> "Good," Crystal smiles encouragingly, "I need to prepare as well."

[Corwin]

#d

[19:40] <Kotono> As Jaela walks down the entry hall, "Lady Jaela," Rosa's voice as she hurries up from behind, falling in step with the half celestial. Around you Aurora buzzes - preparations going full tilt. Around the Medicant Golems Lief flies, leading several other pixies in loops around them and the head of the two passing women, going fast, faster and fastest.
[19:42] <Jaela> "Lady Rosa," Jaela acknowledges her, slowing down enough for her fellow redhead to catch up before resuming her brisk pace. "How can I help you?"
[19:43] <Kotono> Waiting a moment until they pass the range of the flying pixies, then stepping past several burly soldiers and into the courtyard, "I understand we are to be attacking a holding of the devil prince of the undead? I am skilled in dealing with the unclean; I wish to present myself for aid or council to you in preparation."
[19:49] <Jaela> "Are you aware that it's going to be on the negative plane?" Jaela confirms. "In any case, I think you are in the best possible spot for this assault. We intend to send out a diversion, in the hopes of having it retreat back to the Aurora's courtyard and make a stand there along with our massed armies. By commanding our fastest detachment, you will be in an ideal position to blunt the edge of that counter-attack and sow disarray into the undead seeking to invade us. That would take care of aid, though I could use the counsel. Do you have any better suggestions for our attack?"
[19:51] <Kotono> "It's not a bad strategy, but it hinges on Aurora's defenses holding." Rosa replies, "I have questions about that, one I would prefer not to discuss in public. May we adjourn to somewhere more discreet - perhaps the church of the Triune?"
[19:51] <Jaela> "Of course."
[19:55] <Kotono> Here you find solitude. Mei kneels in prayer before the altar, though Priest isn't to be found. Sitting quietly nearby, keeping her voice down to a respect near-whisper, "Are there any ways to overcome Aurora's external barriers?" she asks.
[19:56] <Jaela> "Yes. Elena!"
[19:57] <Kotono> Elena so appears immediately! "Yes?"
[19:57] <Jaela> "Hey. Thanks for coming. First thing I want to ask is, can we extend the field of force surrounding the Aurora?"
[19:58] <Kotono> "No," Elena shakes her head, "It's a defensive field, not a weapon.
[19:58] <Kotono> "
[20:01] * Jaela nods. "Alright, I should've expected that. Now, about the windows and various other openings to the main building. I know the walls are hard to breach and reform, and the stained glass is as magical as them. But is there a way to ensure the Aurora's main building is airtight? I'd hate for someone to bypass the main portal hub and get in because someone forgot to close the window or through a chimney."
[20:02] <Kotono> "I can check the windows," Elena says, "One my purposes is to make sure something like that doesn't happen in case of a battle."
[20:04] <Jaela> "That's settled too," Jaela muses, nodding once more. "And if it does and you can't deal with it in time... hmm, it's not like anyone will be able to trick the portals into letting them pass? So as long as we keep a small force in reserve to respond to any breaches swiftly and in force, with you to direct them, we should be good. Gisfal should manage that out of the general reserves defending the Aurora." She glances at Rosa. "So far, so good?"
[20:05] <Kotono> Rosa nods, "My main concern is that if the barriers of force can be breached. I've dealt with those manner of walls before - can they be broken in the same way?"
[20:06] * Jaela has left that for last, and now she glances at Elena as she responds, "I believe so. But only against someone truly powerful, I believe, and even then for only a short while?"
[20:07] <Kotono> "Yes," Elena says, "It can be done, but they regenerate within seconds. Not fast enough to prevent an attack if an enemy force is swift," she says.
[20:07] <Kotono> "The undead are often incorporeal and capable of flight, planar conditions aside," Rosa says, "You'd want an airborne strike force in case this comes to pass."
[20:10] <Jaela> "A full half of your forces are capable of that," Jaela tells Rosa. "Supplement them with anything Gisfal can spare from the reserves dedicated to Aurora's final defense, and work with that." She frowns briefly. "I wish we'd gotten the conditions of the courtyard tweaked enough in time, but since we can't call on holy energy... well, just blast any invaders with the elements in the unlikely event we have to concede the courtyard and withdraw into the Aurora proper."
[20:11] <Kotono> "Understood," Rosa replies, "Do you have any scouting reports of the enemy forces?"
[20:12] <Jaela> "Unfortunately, it's a hidden fortress." Jaela shrugs uncomfortably. "I expect our first real idea of the enemy forces will be as we crash the Aurora into Castle Crumbling. But if you'd like to corner Tepen and Vul'lath in the library and see if they know more about what to expect, I can only applaud that initiative."
[20:14] <Kotono> "I will," Lady Rosa promises. "I can offer you more council after that. Shall we meet here again in several hours?"
[20:16] <Jaela> "Sounds good to me."
[20:19] <Jaela> roll 1d20+26+15 Rosa
[20:25] <Kotono> When you meet Rosa once more, her face is contemplative, "I did find out a few things. Lixer is served by necromancer devils known as necrolytes and animators. Necrolytes are emancipated cornugons, dealing with battles and mortal training. Animators are pit fiends, skilled in necromancy but with a more general focus compared to the highly focused necrolytes. They deal with animating the undead
[20:25] <Kotono> and command."
[20:28] <Jaela> "The temple to the Triune is hallowed ground, so if any dead were brought over to it we should be safe from any reanimation attempts," Jaela muses. "Would that do?"
[20:30] <Kotono> "It should," Rosa nods, "The Necrolytes are known as emancipated - they're technically outside of much of Hell's command structure, as they serve Prince Lixer directly. This has several connotations in Infernal that don't translate. As best we could figure, the practical impact is that they have altered summoning abilities as a result."
[20:32] <Jaela> "Fun," Jaela mutters. She blinks, then. "You're experienced with this, right? What happens if you hit an undead devil with a weapon that's anathema to both devils and undead? Would it work twice as good?"
[20:33] <Kotono> "I've faced a lichfiend once," Rosa says, "Unfortunately is was one the thralls of Orcus, but weapons consecrated against demons were unreliable. Sometimes they worked, sometimes they did noit."
[20:35] <Jaela> She might need to go with Gae Dearg, then. "I'll mix and match to keep them guessing, then. Alright, any other thoughts?"
[20:37] <Kotono> "Yes. As an appendix to that, we did not find any direct reports of lichfiends or other creatures within the employ of Lixer. His High Animator is said to be close, a pit fiend known as Malagon, but is still a living creature. Unfortunately, the lore is obscure and not overly detailed, nor is it entirely reliable." After a moment to let that digest, "We found information on a 'prestige project'
[20:37] <Kotono> of Lixer's known as a solar's rictus."
[20:37] <Jaela> "Oh wow, that sounds disgusting. Do share!"
[20:41] <Kotono> "It is the skull of a solar infused to the core with vile power. Where once it spread hope, joy and righteousness, it now spreads false salvation and the rotting of the soul. Yet it speaks with the same powerful voice as it did in life." A moment to pause, "The source was that stolen lore from Cania. The Lord of the Eighth was implied to be studying Lixer and it went into the solar's rictus in
[20:41] <Kotono> some detail. What is worse is that holy power avails for nothing against them, for a small pice of the holiness they once had remains trapped within. Fortunately the analysis stated they were rare and absurdly resource intensive to create, even discounting the difficulty of obtaining a solar's skull. It dismissed them as a project for prestige and vanity."
[20:42] <Jaela> "Floating skull, not to bother smiting it, just overcome it with brute strength." Jaela nods. "Got it."
[20:43] <Kotono> Blinking a moment, "That is a succinct summary. I would recommend destroying them if possible - both as an affront against Lixer's work as well as ending an abomination against the Heavens."
[20:43] * Jaela nods. "Yeah, goes without saying. Some things can be salvaged, but not something like this."
[20:45] <Kotono> "Do be wary. I have been mislead by seemingly authentic stolen lore before," Rosa cautions, "Or even wrong simply by virtue of being outdated."
[20:46] <Jaela> "It's always a good idea to go all out and plan for the worst," Jaela agrees. "Though in this case, I don't think there could be anything bad about smashing those skulls."
[20:48] <Kotono> "There is one last bit of lore. It may or may matter for this, for it is connected to High Animator Malagon. It is a warningn of the sole survivor of a group that allegedy faced him. It is, 'Beware the black winter of the heretics'."
[20:49] * Jaela blinks. Strange. She'll need to ask Afina if that rings any bells.