Glorious Home

[Anastasia]

"We may be able to come to an accord," Ruby concurs, "First, clarify your position. What sort of allies do you seek?"

[Nephrite]

Moore considers for a moment. If they get someone who handles information, then...

"To round out our combat readiness... hmm. Someone handy with a blade or otherwise would be beneficial. Cresiel is a stalwart fighter -- we could use more like him." Although they could use a healer, ... no, he knows exactly who he'll pick up for that.

"Beyond those who can fight, I do seek those with a knack for gathering intelligence, or even simple diplomatic affairs." Moore says. "I cannot be everywhere, so people who can keep me abreast of planar happenings and help to relay our intentions to others, as well as to provide assistance to those allies. I am not familiar enough with the various groups around the planes, so having those I can rely on if I need to approach someone would be of great assistance as well."

[Anastasia]

"Then let us begin negotiating," Ruby says. As she does, Cresiel softly hms and speaks up.

"I can heal as needed, but I am not dedicated at it. I suggest further reinforcements there, but that is a niche we can easily fill locally. I also suggest a skilled fighter and man of many talents, a general problem solve in the vein of Sylvie or Tannin from Aurora."

Ruby inclines her head to that, a moment's consideration. "Mister Sisatar is curious as to what is happening with Mount Celestia. Sufficiently insightful information can be accepted as payment for information."

[Nephrite]

Moore nods to Cresiel.

"I was actually going to see if Jetina was available." Moore smiles at Cresiel. "Having another wouldn't be a bad idea, though. Especially if we eventually want to have more than one group."

Moore turns his attention back to Ruby. "I won't say that I fully understand the situation, but please accept my interpretation of things." He clears his throat.

"I think the battle for Lifasa was the first step of many towards something much larger. It was the first time, to my knowledge, of direct deific intervention over a prime world. Whether Bel intended to set certain things in motion or not, he certainly did. When I was part of the final battle there, the Duke of Destiny, Taelfagn, mentioned something known as the Prophecy of Primus, which I am going to presume Mister Sisitar is already aware of. If not, I will be happy to explain."

Moore pauses for a moment. "Anyway, it wasn't that long after Lifasa was saved that the light of Chronias started to shine a bit more brightly. I think I'd be remiss to not see at least some sort of connection there. I think that someone, perhaps even higher up than Zaphkiel, has taken a direct notice of the goings-ons and has opened the proverbial gate to Chronias a small bit in hopes that people will prepare for what may be a much larger fight across the planes. Be it with Shar or anyone who aligns themselves with her and her misbegotten ideas."

Moore clears his throat. "I'm more than happy to share anything I learn, provided that I am not bound to secrecy on that subject."

[Anastasia]

"It is not the first time," Ruby says coolly, "But one of the most blatant that was not the result of mortal foolishness, such as the tale of the Ash'arai."

Ruby listens to the rest, "I will need to consult with Mister Sisastar. I will return, enjoy your hospitality until then."

[Nephrite]

"Of course. Please, take your time." Moore says with a smile and a gesture. "If there are any further matters he would like clarification on, I am happy to provide them."

K:P the right check for Ash'arai?

[Anastasia]

K:L, one you don't have, so bardic knack would apply.

[Nephrite]

Hooray, Bardic Knack is useful!

Take 10 for 72.

Using Greater Improv points.

[Anastasia]

You recall something on one of Jaela's old reports. The Ash'arai from the world of Alere, a group of elves touched by fire and Kossuth directly. Something about Kossuth himself being summoned by one of them and that going as poorly as you'd expect. Details are hazy, and you distinctly recall it's something you read, also. You can't recall which is which, but you think you have the truth of it.

[Nephrite]

Moore makes a sour face at that memory.

"It's never a good idea to summon a primordial elemental like that." He murmurs quietly.

[Anastasia]

Once Ruby is gone Cresiel has another bite of cake. He ponders for a time, before saying, "Jetina, hm? Do you know where she is right now?"

[Nephrite]

"I have not kept tabs on her, no." Moore shakes his head. "But I imagine she's probably studying in Celestia somewhere. I'm sure I can find her if she's allowed to leave her tasks."

[Anastasia]

"If it is willed that she joins us, she will," Cresiel says, "If not...not. Also, do not overlook my contacts and any Xandra may have. I can seek through Celestia and even into my mother's contacts, should it be needed. Though many of those contacts are not ones I believe will greatly avail us."

[Nephrite]

Moore smiles and offers a nod. "I know. I have no doubt you and her both have many friends and allies -- that will be my next step, actually. I wanted to avail myself of outside contacts first, as I have no doubt there are those within the Mountain. I think one of Aurora's strengths was its differing opinions, you know?" A pause. "I know this is different -- I'll be happy to hear about who you would suggest, though."

[Anastasia]

"Let me ask you a statement that is used as philosophical training. Is there a Blood War between Celestia and Arborea?" Cresiel sits back, pushing the rest of his pie to you, a questioning look as he does.