Dragon quickstep

[Anastasia]

Xera's found some useful information on the Lost Chalice.

[Corwin]

Don't keep me in suspense, then. Should I come in person?

[Anastasia]

Of course! Xera would love to see you!

[Corwin]

In that case, Seira decides to dispatch an avatar at once!

[Anastasia]

You find Xera's wrapped up in a thick blanket before a roaring, cozy fire. Her wings are also curled around her, as her simple clothes lie a burnt mess. "Lava," Xera says by way of explanation. "Cursed lava. Why?" she asks with a sigh, "But that's not important. How are you, mother?"

[Corwin]

Using her divine power to remove any curses that might still clinging to the rags, Seira then restores them to properly functional if still as simple clothing.

"Involved in intrigue, as always. We're all fine. How have you been?"

[Anastasia]

"Busy," Is her answer as she stays by the fire. Elle sits nearby, preparing drinks.

"There's always so much to do," Elle agrees, "Here you are." Simple water for Xera.

[Corwin]

"I'll have the same," Seira tells Elle, making herself comfortable.

[Anastasia]

Water is served. Elle has honeyed wine and joins the two of you. "So what did you find?" Elle asks.

"Besides cursed lava?" Xera says, "Who curses lava?" she asks plaintively. "I found an old servant of Cyric. Former servant. He didn't see the light, but he has no use for evil anymore. He was a part of Cyric's court when Yemimah was stolen, and the Triad furiously confronted him over it. Somehow Cyric convinced them he was framed." A sip of water, "But Cyric also investigated after and found a few things out."

[Corwin]

A shame the Triad didn't kill Cyric, there, since it would've probably made for a better Creation.

"Like what?" Seira asks the obvious question.

[Anastasia]

"They suspectd Shar at first, but that didn't prove to be true," Xera begins, "As far as they could discern, Shar had nothing to do with it. So if they're right we can eliminate Shar as being involved in this. That's useful, but not the bigger news. More importantly, they found out that Yemimah has brachina handmaidens in Dis, and he found out their names."

[Corwin]

"And their numbers, I take it?"

[Anastasia]

"Yes," Xera agrees, "But he insisted they only be spoken of in a protected place, or they'll be heard by the enemy. They're powerfully protected."

[Corwin]

"So you want to bring him here, where divine fiat will prevent anything from being overheard?" Seira muses. "What does he want in return for the information?"

[Anastasia]

"He's gained an appreciation of knowledge," Xera goes on, "He wants a favorable introduction to Oghma, so he can enter his service and gain his protection."