Okay, how are you going to make contact?
Same as previously, Seira contacts Lathander with an offer to meet!
Do you have a few minutes? I could stop by, if so. As it happens, I grew a bit and I want to see if it's enough!
'Oh? Tell me more,' Lathander sends right back to you.
I gained in power and channeled it into my divine realm! Now, with liberal abuse of folded space, it resembles a sandwich! I mean, it's a lot more impressive than I made it sound!
'Ahahaha, that sounds like a good idea, but bring lunch. You make me hungry talking like that,' Lathander sends back, his laughter echoing in your mind.
'I got some great homemade cheese from a friend, I'll bring it over!,' Seira promises, and after making these preparations she departs for Lathander's realm.
Obligatory post of prep before going out. Got any to make or bringing anyone?
My standard prep from here, outside the epic spells: http://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,104109.msg1115887.html#msg1115887
I'd like to bring Amaryl along.
Done and done.
You appear in Lathander's realm, full of warmth and sunshine. Lathander himself sits atop a hill, back against a tree as he basks in the noontime sunshine. It's peaceful here, not a sign of a single other soul around.
"Do you ever feel like enjoying a nice moonlit walk with Selune?" Seira asks upon approach to a nice distance for proper conversation. "The thought just popped into my head."
"Not usually, we get along but are somewhat complicated," Lathander answers with a welcoming, rakish little smile. ""Congratulations, Amaryl."
"Thank you, Dawnbringer," Amaryl bows to him, "I'll do my best."
"That's a shame, but I get sticking with what suits best," Seira muses. "That's pretty much why I'm bothering you so soon after we spoke last."
"Well, come over and tell me about it," Lathander invites, "Sit down and tell me all about it."
"Right! So! Alicia beat a proxy of Malcanthet like a drum and we went to Celestia to revive Zariel," Seira relates, resting against another tree near Lathander. "We offered our help and she accepted, so it seems like she's on the right path! I was already excited about that, but it seems like my powers grew as a result, and that's when I decided to alter the Cauldron with Amaryl. The way I see it, I want to slice the Cauldron into three infinite layers, so I'm working towards that. The inner layer of terraces in the maw of the volcano is for myself and Amaryl, and once Sanzha finally gets her act together she gets the filling of the sandwich? Then I need Donald and Elle to grow enough to accept responsibility for the slopes and we'll be all set!"
Lathander laughs, light and agreeable, "So you're keeping it completely in that volcano? Rather like Celestia."
Amaryl sits next to you and adds, "I think we're going to have more fire though, even factoring in Raziel. Much more fire."
"You know, I keep on being asked that question?" Seira muses. "Astral is a realm where time, space and navigation hold no meaning. It's also infinite, so grabbing any finite part of it is literally meaningless. In that case, why not make infinite space within the bounds of what I have? After all, Astral does have landmarks, and the Cauldron is one of them! I aim to reach parity with the gith, and then Astral itself will shift towards my goals. I think that's where I can do the most good, rather than a quarter of Brightwater or a realm within Arborea."
"Standing on your own has more potential, but more dangers," Lathander notes, his normal humor gone in the blink of an eye. "Make strong allies who will stand with you and are willing to wage war if need be."
"Will it be that serious?" Amaryl asks, looking up at the sun.
"Yes," Lathander says, "Especially if you push the Astral towards being dominated. You will get increasing pushback, so understand that general agreement has the Astral as something of a frontier, save for the gith and Vlaakith. Vlaakith understands the limits of the game, so she is no great danger to that. Succeed, but know your boundaries so you do not bring woe onto yourselves." Then with a bit of a sudden grin, "Unless you can handle it all."
"I guess we'll see! By the time I'll put this in motion, those who hate me will already decide to do that and the same goes for my supporters, so lines will be drawn in the sand."
"So long as you are aware,' Lathander says, "I'm pulling for you, turning the Astral brighter would benefit all of us. Yet the wheels of conflict and diplomacy will oppose you on this as you get closer to your goal. Too many have stakes in a neutral Astral Plane."
"I get it, high risk, high reward," Seira responds. "I just feel like there's been too much status quo lately, alongside Hell pushing the boundaries a lot. Let's push back!"
"Now that sounds like a good idea," Lathander grins back, "So, any other world shaking plans that sound like good ideas, Seira?"
"Working on a semi-secret plan to free the Inner Planes of slavery," Seira decides to fill him in, given that they're being drawn out longer than she had originally expected. "Going to hit the worst of the efreet slavers while working behind the scenes to use economic sanctions and other means to wean the bulk of the efreet off the idea. Gonna free the xorn from the dao while I'm at it, too."
"Good work," Lathander seconds, "Have you had any success yet?"
Amaryl says, "A little, we're still setting everything into motion.
"Right now, Celestia's getting to shine while executing another part of the plan. But I'm hoping Zaaman Rul can help me with a chance to get Akil bin Faheem. Aside from being the worst, he's also their liaison with the devils, so we're talking two birds with one stone, here."
"Good! Zaaman Rul needs to purify Fire already," Lathander says, "I really need to pin Imix down and give him a long chastisement, he's really the underlying problem."
"I think the problem is more with the efreet," Seira muses. "Still, one day! Once you feel the urge to beat Imix up, I'll be there~"
"I tried once," Lathander recalls, "When his forces were distracted, but Kossuth was a spoil sport," To this Lathander sighs wistfully, "Too bad, I had a clean shot at him, but Kossuth got touchy about me interfering in Fire's business."
"Maybe just Zaaman Rul and I could do it?" Seira wonders. "I think I'm accepted as part of Fire. Though it does bring up a point that bothers me. Kossuth seems to be pretty hand-off on Fire, but isn't Fire itself tilted too far the wrong way? I'd have expected him to enforce balance of a sorts."
"I've been wondering about that, too," Amaryl pipes up, basking in the sunshine. "For that matter, why does Akadi do something about Air's tilt towards good?"
To this Lathander smiles, "Yes, I agree, but you answered your own question, Amaryl. Air tilts one way, Fire the other and the other two are neutral. Giving both sides some territory while keeping them balanced out but present - something supported by the tolerance of Elemental Princes of Good and Evil. Kossuth, Grumbar, Akadi and Istishia don't comment on it, but my belief is they balance it overall in the elements, not plane by plane."
"Yes, I know that interpretation," Seira says, a touch of petulance entering her voice. "But it makes no sense! Water and Fire are commonly seen to oppose each other, outside of the Cauldron, so why would they be fine with a lack of parity? Unless you're saying that the elemental deities have no concept of ethics, and the great divide between Good and Evil is meaningless to them?" She frowns. "Yet if that is so, why bother maintaining parity through Air and Fire's shifts?"
"That is the problem," Lathander agrees, "Kossuth and friends follow their own agenda - and likely their own commands from the Incarnations, ones they have not shared with us."
"Kossuth was more like a well spoken elemental," Amaryl adds in here, "We saw him recently. He wasn't unpleasant, but he was focused on what there was to do and Fire."
"At least it should mean that if I want to take Fire into the opposite direction, Kossuth should be fine with it. It's still Fire, after all."
"See, that's why I like you! That's some good reasoning, that sounds like a great idea!" Lathander seconds it, "Especially if he won't get as touchy about you interfering as he does when I interfere on Fire."
"Thanks! And I like you for way more reasons than being able to ask you advice on Goldenfire~"
Lathander reaches out and musses your hair and that, "Speaking of reasons to like you, what did you bring for lunch? Say, are you sure you don't want to move to an outer plane? I could make room for the Cauldron in the House of Nature."
"Thanks, but I got used to Astral," Seira responds, holding out her hand as a picnic basket appears in it. "When Vayley heard I was going on a trip here, she gave me a bit more than the cheese. There's sandwiches and some nice wine she swears will go very nicely with them."
Lathander starts to say something but pauses. "I'll be back, someone's trying to assassinate one of my proxies." Then Lathander is gone, a nearly blinding flash of sunlight in his wake.
Amaryl blinks her eyes clear and says, "It must be a serious effort if he personally went to deal with it."
Seira flexes her power to try and find out who and where would do that.
Let's Miracle it to see if I can help out!
Are you trying to mimic any real spell here or merely using alter reality?
I'm not sure what divination will work here or how they work off my own power if I'm not consciously aware of them. So just fishing with either Miracle SLA or Alter Reality, whichever does the job.
You see it. A great tower of stone engraved with runes. Inside. Glowing red light. Malice. "GET AWAY!" A woman's scream. Menace, a chill that chills you to your bones.
The impact of a mace of sheer radiant sunlight against a ranseur thick with ice. "Explain yourself, Mephisto!" Lathander demands, "This one is mine!"
The two spells that Seira only uses in preparation for immediate combat are cast upon she and Amaryl in a flash, and Seira extends her hand towards her wife. "Lathander's proxy is in danger from Mephistopheles on Ice, I'm going to keep her safe while he takes care of business. Coming?"
If Amaryl takes her hand, Seira will transport the two of them into flanking positions of the proxy. Otherwise, she'll just have to go on her own!
Amaryl gasps, "You think I'd leave you behind?!" she says, taking your hand.
And they're off! Lathander was able to get there, and Seira can only try to follow him. Worst case, if the area is locked by Mephisto's direct intervention, she could distract him at a key moment and give Lathander a better chance.
It is the morning light that vanquishes the horrible night. Lathander is as the sun itself, bleaching everything in the tower bright white, save for the devil before you. 50ft away is Mephistopheles - a cold figure, clean shaven. He has long horns jutting from his forehead, ice blue eyes already on the three of you. He wears elaborate, flowing robes of white studded with gemstones - surely diamonds, Seira can tell. A ranseur is on one slender hand, his hand and his exposed face a blue so dark as to border being black. The sunlight stops within about 9ft of him, dissolving into a chill mist that slowly spreads across the room.
"Seira Aryn," His voice is soft, little more than a whisper. "Amaryl Gaial." Frost-laden smoke escapes his mouth when he speaks, hanging heavy in the air.
"Please, don't let me interrupt," Seira tells him sweetly, taking half a step forward to prevent a direct line from Mephistolpheles and Lathander's proxy. It should also have the effect of telling him clearly that if he wants her, he would need to go through her. "We're merely here to allow Lathander to focus fully on driving you off."
She's also on fire, but that sort of thing is to be expected when going into such a situation.
Amaryl stays behind you, bow drawn and arrow nocked.
"Leave or face the sun, Mephistopheles," Lathander warns, brighter and brighter by the moment. "Let me send you back to Hell."
"I have come for you alone, Lathander," Mephistopheles says, "Have your minions leave."
"It's called 'friends', sweetheart. I know that's a foreign concept in hell, so how about you head on home to ponder on it?"
The Lord of the Eighth reaches into his robe - and withdraws a plain golden amulet shaped like the sun. Nothing impressive on a glance, yet it radiates a gentle warmth and light that stands out even amid Lathander's overwhelming light.
Lathander's entire bearing changes in an instant. He stands straighter, mace lowering slightly. "I have wondered for ages what happened to that."
"Alone, Lathander," Mephisto repeats, "If you want this back and your proxy to survive this encounter, we'll talk alone. Seira Aryn and Amaryl Gaial have nothing to do with this."
What is the amulet, and do I think I can take the proxy with me and plane shift away? I need answers to these two questions.
K:Planes, K:Arcana and K:Religion take 10 for 82. Spellcraft take 10 for 67.
You might be able to, but taking such an action would provoke init, since Mephisto isn't going to let you do that unopposed.
You have no idea what the amulet is.
The amulet itself radiates overwhelming magic. It's a powerful artifact related to sunlight and having power over it.
'Any deal with him is a bad deal,' Seira notes in Lathander's mind. 'I'll stay back if you want me to, but let me at least take your proxy out of here, if so.'
Lathander is silent for a few moments, "I want your word that this is a peaceful parley and nothing more," Lathander says aloud, gaze on Mephisto.
"Given." Mephisto replies. "Provisional on the two of them leaving and not having any part of this, nor eavesdropping."
"What do you crave privacy for so much?" Amaryl asks, bow not wavering at the slightest, arrow aimed at Mephisto's heart.
A frigid look from Mephisto to Amaryl, full of contempt and scorn, as if looking on a drooling idiot.
Amaryl doesn't blink at it, though her expression tightens, knuckles whitening.
'Can you endure Mephisto's assault?' Lathander asks right back.
'No idea. Not impossible. I gave as good as I got with both Lords of the First, and I'm stronger now. But it would be worth it if you could take him out if he splits his attention,' Seira responds. 'We're solely here for your support, so use us as you find most advantageous. If you want to parley, I'd respectfully suggest making one of the conditions on your side that we leave with your proxy. He'll have to believe you, if he wants you to believe him in turn about the peaceful parley.'
'Agreed.' Lathander sends back.
"Seira leaves with my proxy and it's a deal," Lathander says back, the two locking eyes.
Mephisto matches that look and suddenly the proxy is before you, right at your feet. "Leave," Mephisto commands. "Do not attempt to eavesdrop."
"I'd say it's been a pleasure, but it never is with you types," Seira cheerfully responds, one hand placed on the woman's shoulder and the other on Amaryl's, and then she appears at the entrance to the Cauldron with well-wishes directed at Lathander.
"Let's wait here a bit in case of some sort of trick," she says, studying her guest.
My post of arrival and the following one had me appear next to her following my stated intent, so this was weird to me. If I hadn't appeared near the proxy as I lined there, I would've appreciated a heads up.
Just a miscommunication on my part then. Whoops.
Amaryl exhales, lowering her bow.
The man here is clad in armor, blood splattered and iced over. He's out cold, humanish features with a golden glow - an aasimar or he was once one, perhaps. He is bald and slender, yet wears his armor easily, no sign of age on him at all, in his natural prime.
That won't do! Seira heals him up after transporting the three of them to an empty guard post hidden on the second layer.
His wounds heal instantly.
Amaryl follows, appearing next to you. "I feel an overwhelming urge to put an arrow through his cold, arrogant face," she growls, "What a bastard!"
"Eh, don't take it personally. We all knew it was posturing, and we could've given Lathander a chance to put him down. His posing can't take that away from us," Seira tells Amaryl, looking over the unconscious man. If there's something else wrong, she'll need to fix it!
Make an K:P check.
10 for 82
Close contact to Mephistopheles can lead to sluggishness and frigid exhaustion due to his nature and control over cold. It can be negated by an opposed rank check against him or simply letting it wear off.
I wanted to give it a try!
20:50 <Lucille> roll 1d20+2
20:50 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 9 > [d20=7]
Fair enough, it's useful info even if you have no chance on the roll, since it gives you insight to Mephisto's divine rank.
> roll 1d20+23 (+8 strata bonus)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 36 > [d20=13]
No good - you feel the cold overwhelming, a chill going through you as your power cannot move Mephisto's power.
Why yes, yes it does!
"We'll need to wait, but at least it should pass on its own," Seira muses, now transporting the three of them to her temple, next to the warmth of the eternal flame burning in it.
Amaryl goes ot the flame and basks in it, adding, "Still, I have so many questions now," Amaryl admits, "Even Mephisto's insult aside."
"Nothing to do but wait. Lathander's pretty great, so let's trust him!"
It's perhaps ten minutes before you get a simple message: 'I'm fine. Bring my proxy back to where we met.'
"Let's go," Seira tells Amaryl, and once more they are transported across the planes!
Lathander awaits, standing. He takes one look and says, "I'm going to let my proxy rest in the sun," he declares, expression solemn.
"I tried to warm him up by the flame, but it'll take time," Seira says. "Unless you want to counter Mephisto's power directly? You'll be able to do it, I'm sure."
"Let it pass with time, he won't be harmed," Lathander says, "Thank you for your aid there, Seira and Amaryl." His expression lacks any joviality, all serious looks.
"It's a shame we couldn't do much this time," Seira tells him, shaking her head. "Can I ask you to tell us about that amulet, and whether you got it back?"
"I'm sorry, but it's private," Lathander says, "A long ago story, a long ago love lost to the sands of time." Then he smiles, "But, let me say I do not reward those who are true friends. Come, I think you've earned a reward for your valor and heroism today."
"Not why either of us did it, though I did come here to ask you for advice on using Goldenfire better," Seira muses.
"Well!" Lathander laughs, "That's perfect, I think our interests and needs dovetail perfectly here. What a good idea!"
"I need more power to take on the enemies I've already made for myself, so that's a no brainer," Seira says with a grin. "And Goldenfire fits so well for my theme it's uncanny. I've been thinking of crafting my understanding of it into an extension of my divinity once I've reached the right spot for that."
"So," Lathander says, "Show me what you can do with it already," he says.
Include OOC notes on what functionality your goldenfire has and all of that.
"Right! So I can turn my flames golden, obviously, for my breath and magic. They pretty much bypass any sort of defenses against fire, magical or inborn. I also know that Goldenfire uses the idea of the fires of creation, though I haven't managed to actually create anything with mine yet, or harmed the destructive elements worse with it. No increased or harder to heal damage from the flames to Evil or undead, in other words."
Thus far:
Golden Fire (Su)
Seira's flames channel direct holy energy into them, turning them a brilliant golden shade. The flames of her breath weapon ignore resistance and immunity to fire. Likewise, her spells with the fire descriptor ignore resistance and immunity to fire.
'That's a pretty good start," Lathander says once you finish, "Now have you ever seen goldenfire in action beyond your own flames?"
"Not in person, out in the field," Seira responds, shaking her head. "I heard about the experience Kascha had with it, and have some idea of the weapon that was forged with the results. But on my end, I've only recently designed a spell that would explicitly call upon goldenfire, and it's just a proof of concept for now. There's no question that your insights into this could push me forward."
"Then let me give you some," Lathander says, "Watch."
Gimme an Int check with a +10 circumstance bonus.
Seira watches most intently!
18:29 <Lucille> roll 1d20+15+2+2+10
18:29 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 43 > [d20=14]
Hours pass as you drink in what Lathander shows you, more and more secrets understood. You've grown in your understanding of goldenfire and feel you can apply it more powerfully in time.
OOC for this part. You've unlocked the ability to improve golden fire into an SDA as well as step into Elemental Lord (Fire) SDA when you have an open SDA slot. To be clear, both require an open SDA slot so this is for the future, so make a note of this on your sheet for now.
Lathander is best sempai! I'll make a note of it. Does Amaryl want to ask him for some advice of her own, since he kindly offered to the both of us?
She'll hold onto it as an IOU sort of thing since she's just getting started and used to her basic domains. Make a note that Lathander owes her one on your sheet, too.
Anything else to do here?
Okay. I'm ready to move on. Has there been progress on the Zaaman Rul/Akil bin Faheem side or with Syala and Sanzha being ready to work on our behemoth project?
On both. Which do you want to hit first?
Let's knock off Behemoths first since I'd like to see how this works and it's probably the shorter of the two, too!
Getting the three of you together isn't hard. Syala and Sanzha are here as...
Go ahead and set up, this is your baby.
This time, rather than use one of her old laboratories Seira meets the pair in a room with positive energy, protected from the unfortunate side-effects through the use of protective magic.
"It's not so much a direct link to the plane of Positive Energy as it is a fragment of it, existing in finite space in the Cauldron," she tells Syala. "I thought we could start the first experiment here. Rather than opening a conduit and risking backlash, we should be able to use this place as the ideal greenhouse."
She frowns, glancing about the plain features, and adds, "Perhaps even literally. It's a bit barren right now, and could probably use some potted plants at the very least."
Syala wiggles her nose and suddenly plants are here and there, green and verdant. "There," she says, "That enough green?"
"Nice and stylish!" Seira agrees. "Especially the gesture. Adorable!"
She tries to copy it, fails, and then pinches the bridge of her nose to make it happen as a large platform holding a caged green tiger rises out of an opening in the floor.
"I thought we would start with the basics," Seira goes on to say. "Animals without a strong magical component like unicorns or pegasi, which would be an obvious second step. The third would be to try and infuse a bit of elemental power into things, perhaps by using the Radiance room. Does that sound alright?"
The tiger doesn't have the same planar protection that keep them from being filled to the brim with positive energy, but his confines are more than simple bars. Made with the understanding of Yan-C-Bin's notes, they serve to filter and channel the energy properly to allow the base creature to grow rather than explode from the infusion.
"Well first of all, let's define parameters for the experiments. Are we going to try to make true behemoths or simply manage improvements short of that?" Syala asks, as Lady Sanzha goes to check the tiger over.
"I think it's best to replicate the feat as closely to the original as possible, so we'll be aiming for a true behemoth, here. No improvements on the design, no half-steps. We've done all the prep we could until now, anyway, so it's time to go for it!"
"Then let's do it," Syala agrees, raising a hand. "Lead the way for the first one and hope this isn't an explosive failure to begin with."
"The rate of success is remarkably low," Lady Sanzha points out, "It may be inevitable."
"We'll raise it until it works reliably," Seira promises, and with a silent apology to Shamal adjusts the filtering of the cage so that the process may begin!
Roll 1d100.
20:45 <Lucille> roll 1d100
20:45 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 86 > [d100=86]
What happens is what you expect - the animal reaches the brink, only a bit of magic from Syala preventing an explosion. She reaches out and caresses it, divine will soothing the beast.
"I got some data from that," Lady Sanzha says, taking notes as she goes. "Keep him at peace, free of pain and suffering," she says, "And obviously not exploded, Syala."
"What if instead a steady stream of positive energy, we tried the infusion in pulses?" Seira proposes. "We'll keep on pushing its limits over and over, expanding them like a muscle until the tiger is capable of internalizing the change."
Lady Sanzha hums, "Certainly worth experimenting in, and less uncomfortable than pushing animals that far."
"Agreed," Syala says, "I don't really like this testing that toes that close to hurting or killing one. I can accept it if I'm nulling the danger and the pain, but it's still distasteful. Let's try the pulses."
Seira nods. "We're trying to find a better solution, like I said. Otherwise we would just be tossing hundreds of tigers at the problem in hundreds of rooms like this one until eventually one managed it."
She adjusts the cage further, programming holes in its protections to open at her her order.
"Ready on my end."
Give me another d100.
21:27 <Lucille> roll 1d100
21:27 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 42 > [d100=42]
"Hmm," Sanzha says after some time of trying that, "No change in tolerances, but it may be long term if it works at all. Still," she writes away, "The results are worth studying."
"Let me try to run the bursts in sequences," Seira muses, adjusting the process so that it would escalate before tapering off. Three lances of positive energy from points on the cage forming an equilateral triangle, then five in a similar arrangement, then seven and eleven, continuing with prime numbers.
The process stops, and then picks a different trio of origins and starts anew!
Gimme another d100 then.
22:07 <Lucille> roll 1d100
22:07 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 73 > [d100=73]
It's ultimately the same problems, but Lady Sanzha is humming ot herself, "Okay, I think I have a few hypotheses, one the lore you took supports," she announces. "It's something in the animals that lets it happen, I don't think any method can easily replicate it without that. We're running into the same basic limitation. So our approach should be animal side if we want behemoths."
Syala hms slightly, "That fits the lore. What are your other conclusions?"
"You mean something like a fighting instinct? A strong desire to survive? Just picking them at an earlier age?" Seira asks, happy she didn't need to dip into numerology for other tests.
"More than that. It's very rare you understand, a sort of potential we don't see often." Lady Sanzha's still writing, rather like Kascha. "I suspect some sort of latent potential and ability, much like how occasionally a human is born hyper competent."
"So you don't think repeated infusions will work on Cringer, here?" Seira muses. "Very well. Do you understand the right parameters to look for in an animal, Syala? We could give it another try if you located these hyper-competent subjects."
"I don't; think they will, but it's not without hope," Lady Sanzha says, "Making a creature a creature of pure positive energy looks quite possible with this method," she remarks. "It's not the same and I don't think you could mak ea behemoth one, but early results are promising."
Syala nods to you slightly, "I'll see what I can do. Divinations will do, and if not, I'll see about getting a favor from someone in the House of Nature."
"That sounds like a plan," Seira agrees. "For now, since work on behemoths will take extra preparations, how about we try to make it a positive energy tiger?"
"Let's," Syala says.
Meanwhile? 'Seira,' Amaryl sends, 'Moore of Celestia is here with a message for you.'
'I'll be right there,' Seira promises. 'Just one test, alright? Just one more!'
She sets the sequence in motion again, except this time it attempts to model the golden spiral by approximating it through the surface area exposed to positive energy.
Still trying for a behemoth? d100 if so. If not, specify.
Aiming for a positive energy tiger now, since Sanzha indicated this could work!
Re: Behemoths, I'll wait until Syala contacts us later with having found suitable animals.
d100.
23:02 <Lucille> roll 1d100
23:02 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 79 > [d100=79]
It's not there, but...
"There's potential," Sanzha says, "We just don't have the process worked out yet. But the fundamentals appear sound. Give me some experimentation time and I should be able to work ou ta method, and then perfect it over further time."
"Please keep at it," Seira requests, before telling Syala, "I have a guest from Celestia. Would you please excuse me while I see what he wants?"
"Oh? Who is it?" Syala asks, glancing over, "I've been meaning to catch Romiel if it's him."
"A Duke of Celestia named Moore, previously of Aurora," Seira responds. "I didn't think you would be interested so I hadn't extended the offer, but you're certainly welcome to come with me."
"Mmm. One of Aurora's? I'll come," Syala says, "Just in case."
Moore and Cresiel await in a beautiful room, wrought stone and gingerbread together as Seira and Syala enter.
Go ahead, y'all.
"Hello," Seira greets the pair.
"Moore, Duke of Celestia, and Cresiel, son of Romiel. Both formerly of Aurora," she then starts on the introductions. "Syala of Sylica, my other guest for the day."
Cresiel rises and bows, "It is an honor."
Syala's light surrounds her entire body, cloaking her as she reaches up to brush aside a bit of her white hair. "Well, you aren't one of the ones involved with Ebony's deaths. It's good to meet you, Moore."
Moore offers them both a bow. "Lady Seira, Lady Syala."
He withdraws a small package of notes, several sheets of paper and what appears to be a letter by itself on top.
"I had intended to just send a letter and the notes, but since you're present, I'll give this to you directly." Moore says. "This is my research on Calley's blueprint. It seems to point to something related to 21." A small smile after that.
"It would appear there are 777 things -- I know, I know -- that make up this ritual, or whatever it is. I've happened across one, but haven't had much time to devote to the other parts. I wanted to at least bring this to you to help with that particular matter, as I do trust you all to have the best interests of everyone when it comes to the subject of 21." He flies over to offer the actual bundle of notes himself.
"I'm sure you could just magically go through all of them anyway, but something about this feels a bit more... mm... it's a more traditional thing, so it still feels right to me." A laugh after that. "I actually did think of just praying the information to you, but that felt like it was rather inconsiderate."
"You could offer a prayer and wait for me to glance your way," Seira muses, accepting the information while politely ignoring Syala's beef with Moore and Cresiel. "I haven't exactly been idle, myself."
The sheets of paper and the letter float before her, and Mystra's notes join them as Seira consults both and cross-references things with the copy of Calley's thesis taken from Josa.
It is time! Time to figure out more!
"Of course it's 777 pieces," Syala murmurs, "Well, 776 to go at least. I hope she's not waiting on us urgently."
Cresiel stands besides you, letting you talk.
Gimme K:A, Seira. Are you letting anyone else read Mystra's notes while you work?
"I wouldn't expect any less." Moore says. "I have a feeling it's one of those things that may just not be able to be forced."
A glance to Syala, but no reaction from what she says.
"Far less than that," Seira murmurs, studying the information.
I don't mind.
23:51 <Lucille> roll 1d20+106 gota, gh, imp, ba
23:51 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 108 > [d20=2]
Moore, make a K:A check if you wanna help out then? Syala will in the next post too.
Take 10 for 110
Pieces fit together. It's part of the outline - perhaps a 7th or so, but you make considerable progress from it.
This information is worth 111 pieces, so that's 112/777 so far.
I'm winding down here, so a post each to react so you two don't bury me, we'll finish this scene Monday.
"Not bad," Seira muses. "I got an interesting idea out of the deal, too. What do you plan on doing next?"
Apologies, I got wrapped up in a work thing later on.
Moore nods himself. "Yes, I had a feeling it was something like this -- bits and pieces hidden all over creation. Ah... well, I'll continue to do research on my end, though I don't have any specific leads. I did want to ask you if we were approaching the time where your intervention against the Efreet -- ah!"
He snaps a finger. "I should've mentioned this too, but I imagine you are likely aware. We recently faced a group of four individuals on one of our attacks on an Efreet holding. Nasim, Ebrek, and two unnamed agents of Hell. One was a servant of Belial and the other seemed to have been personally called on by Asmodeus. Actually, Ebrek was a pit fiend that was also a notable servant of Asmodeus, but we were able to defeat him. I don't know how much Hell is currently backing the Grand Sultan in these endeavors, but I wanted to at least make you aware that they seemed to be moving more overtly to support them."
He takes a breath. "To that end, we're working on a few countermeasures for their group. If you or your agents have to deal with them, Nasim wears an armor that was apparently forged by Mystra and Eldath that seems to absorb magic. We're trying to, ah... take it off his hands, as they say, but again, just be aware of it."
"I've received word that plans I've seeded on Fire have taken root, so it might be sooner than you think," Seira responds. "I'll look into this armor, but overall I'm confident in my chances were our paths to cross."
Moore nods. "Of course. I imagine that he's going to gun for me if I happen to show up anywhere, so you may be able to use that to your tactic advantage. Either way, we're ready to do our parts, so don't hesitate to let me know when things move forward. I'll keep you abreast of any further research I happen across regarding 21 or Sylvie, as well."
"That works," Seira agrees.
I'll seek out Zaaman Rul, if there's more here.
Moore gives a nod and a bow to both of the ladies again.
"Ebony's always welcome to come visit, if she'd like." Moore says before he departs with Cresiel in tow!
Okay, this worked out smoothly and well. Seira, I'll get you on Zaaman Rul in one sec. Moore, next move so I can weave you back into a thread on your node?
I guess he'll hit the riddle some more, though full disclosure I'm still pretty stuck on it!
Done, you're new threaded.
Seira, any prep before you go?
None, just the usual spells.
Here one sec to ask an obligatory question, taking anyone?
No
You meet again with Zaaman Rul.
"Seira," he greets you in the same place as before, "Welcome."
"Thanks. I came as soon as I got your word."
"We've spread the rumors and begun them, as desired. They're taking to the court well, though Faheem himself hasn't made a public move," Zaaman Rul says, "The Sultan HAS noticed, and I have it on good authority he's held private war councils about it as well as Aurora. Eblis has been unusually active in these according to my source, though often disagreeing with Hasalur or simply ignoring him."
"Eblis and I have an understanding where we ignore the other exists," Seira muses. "Out of curiosity, why would the Sultan care? At least care enough to hold meetings about it?"
"One, they take the idea of Aurora fighting them seriously," Zaaman Rul nods heavily, "As they should after what they did to Bel's forces and what you did to Bel himself. Two, the Sultan is gathering support and calling in obligations in case of total war. In simple terms, the efreet nobility view the Grand Sultan as their liege lord, so there are formalities to be done."
"That the Aurora is serious business is clear to me," Seira clarifies. "But why would me making designs on Razalim be an issue for the Sultan's personal attention?"
"It's simple - they believe it to be part of an overarching plan," Zaaman Rul says, "Hasalur supports this - devils always see plans and schemes, and court life is full of intrigues." Leaning forward a bit as he goes on, gesturing, "The fact that they're right is more a testament to paranoia than intellect here. You're a known ally of Aurora and they suspect you're going to aid them somehow, or have some part in their plan."
"Ah. That works, sure. So do you think it's time to up the pressure? Have me make an appearance in the City of Brass, perhaps?"
"If you want to declare war or try to parley," Zaaman Rul says, "It's daring and can't be ignored in the current political climate. It's also attacking the strength of the enemy."
"That would rather negate our considerable efforts to draw Faheem out," Seira notes. "If not the direct approach, what else would you suggest?"
"Right now the efreet are reacting but reacting coherently," Zaaman Rul says, "We need something else to happen to throw a wrench in those plans, further shake them up. Something unanticipated."
"Does it have to do with Fire?" Seira wonders out loud. "Or can I act on Earth, first, to get them guessing?"
"I haven't decided, it's not my choice alone to make," Zaaman Rul says, "We have many avenues that could be unexpected. My thinking is that a force completely unconnected would be the best, but that requires producing that force and drawing them in while keeping our role in it secret."
Seira nods her agreement. "I hoped to do that with Celestia, except their chosen was an Aurora officer so things got complicated. My usual allies won't be of much good with this, unfortunately. Perhaps I could look into mortal heroes?"
"Yes, but one reputable enough to be a threat and with enough resources to support that," Zaaman Rul sits back now, drumming his fingers on his throne's armrest.
"That's a bit of a catch," Seira notes. "If they're to be reputable, I can't use any of my own as they would be tied back to me in an instant. And someone else is sponsoring the rest already...."
"That is the tricky part," Zaaman Rul considers, fingers drumming, little flames dancing from the contact yet not burning the chair. "A neutral force or deity who could be discretely talked into it may be best, but also challenging to manage. Someone who you don't have many ties to, nor does Aurora."
"...I know just who to talk to."
"Oh?" Zaaman Rul asks, leaning forward again, "Who is it?"+
"Prepare to be pleasantly surprised!" Seira tells him cheerfully, before asking, "So this is all the prep we can make at present, right? Unless you're busy, want to go to Magma and form All-Elementals with me? I'm pretty sure I've got the technique down pat."
"Another time," Zaaman Rul's voice is tinged with regret, "I prepare for a possible offensive against the efreet, should this require it."
"Another time it is," Seira agrees. "Don't be a stranger, alright? Stop by the Cauldron when your duties allow for it."
Okay, you clearly have someone in mind, so what's your next move on this?
I want to collect Elle and Donald and to go to Magma to try and make another All-Elemental. Also, to chat with them!
If at all possible, I would like to ask Amaryl to talk to Lathander about the possibility of a quest swap. If he has any mortal heroes that could be asked to go bust up the slave trade on Fire, perhaps there's something a few of our heroes could do for his goals in return?
Sure. Gimme a quick d100 while I prep something for that super quick.
20:26 <Lucille> roll 1d100
20:26 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 19 > [d100=19]
You find Elle and Donald practicing, sword on sword. Mostly Donald showing Elle how to parry better, lecturing as he does. "What you want to do is anticipate. You really only get the sense of it from experience, learning to instinctively read your enemy and move to parry. Most serious opponents are so fast you can't react once you realize what they're doing. You have less leeway with a sword than a shield, but you can still block with it."
The two of them are in light practice armor atop a quiet terrace, only a few earth and air elementals about, seeing to this or that.
"Swordplay! Then I came just in time," Seira exclaims with a grin. "Elle, how would you like to be my proxy? I'm thinking my ability to speed up magic at will is going to be quite popular with you. Or my ability to make things explode over a great stretch of terrain, but you might need to train yourself up for that one a bit, first."
Elle pauses at this and lowers her practice sword, wooden tip pointing down. "That's quite the hon-OW!"
Donald steps in and strikes, a deft strike to her ribs that makes Elle grimace. "DONALD!"
Without much of a smile, "I told you not to lower your guard in practice, dear. Better now than with live steel and a hostile enemy." He exhales, "Hi Seira, that would be great for her."
"Lowering the guard is one thing, but you did ruin the moment somewhat," Seira notes, smiling sweetly at him. Her gaze falls upon Elle, then, and then the powers of a proxy are bestowed upon her oldest friend!
I'll update her with them tonight, added it as a todo.
Elle murmurs and looks at her hands as you hear a voice in your mind. Antenora's voice.
We are at your door, Seira. May we enter? Zariel wishes to visit now.
Of course! Be my guest!
Seira sends her avatar to guide the pair in, while asking Elle and Donald, "Is this a good time to hear what you had in mind for tackling the xorn slaves matter?"
"Well," Elle says, letting the previous go. "We did a lot of talking around and research, first of all. Refresh me what your knowledge of the situation is, Seira?"
"Their legendary paragon is trying to free them from the dao, and it sounded like a thing we should support with all our efforts," Seira responds with a wry smile. "Since I'm focused on the more volatile situation on Fire, Earth is up to the two of you -- or the three of you, if you bring Amaryl in on this."
"It's interesting," Elle remarks, "We tried to find evidence of the Great Xorn, but we couldn't pin him down. All we found were second hand rumors, but persistent ones. The Xorn aren't talkative on the best of days, but we've had a devil of a time trying to track him down."
"Yeah," Donald says, "He may be laying low to stop the Dao from assassinating him. We saw an incident while we were there, a couple of elder Xorns slain in a daring and swift strike." Shaking his head with a frown, "Damn shame, we just didn't get a chance to do anything about it."
"My only instruction is that we are not seen as leading the change in Earth," Seira tells Elle and Donald. "Unless, of course, you find proof that the Great Xorn is merely a rumor after all and we have to be the ones stepping up. Oh, out of curiosity, did you try a Sending?"
"Blocked," Elle says, "We had to stay quiet and not make any sort of splash." Scowling a bit, "We could have done more by being showy, but I suppose it had to be that way."
"The magic he's under's strong, so if the Great Xorn's not co-opted or worse, he has a powerful patron helping him," Donald adds in. Idly dropping his practice sword and then flexing his hand, "Our money's on the Prince and Princess of Elemental Good in Earth helping out, but who can know these things? We didn't visit yet, since odds are the Dao have spies in the court."
"We'll know more once Kascha returns, since she is aware of our plans in general. Certainly enough to touch base with them if she gets the chance. While we wait on that, how about you two grab Amaryl and go mess up a Sharran plot? With luck, Lathander has something nice like that lined up for us."
That gets Donald to perk up, "That's always fun. Coming with us?"
"Zariel's coming over, so I'll pass on it this one time. But you three have fun!"
Going off to see Zariel, then?
Yep. My avatar will lead her to my temple, where I'll be waiting!
Small point that will matter: Clearing out your temple for privacy or just going to let Zariel come in and the entire thing be public?
In a nice compromise, I'll clear a space like people do for celebrities and VIPs so they don't get swarmed, but not reserve the whole thing and kick everyone out.
Thus with it set up, Antenora and Zariel arrive. They walk in with eyes on both of them, heading right towards you.
Zariel's expression is controlled, the faintest hints of her stealing glances, taking in the entire spectacle herself.
"Welcome, Antenora and Zariel," Seira greets them anew as her true self. "I'm glad you could make it." She sweeps her arm in a wide arc around her, saying for Zariel's benefit, "This is the Temple of the Golden Flame, the sole temple that my faith has across the planes as I prefer a more nomadic and ad-hoc approach for my agents." The other arm draws slower, and golden light plays across the forests surrounding her temple. "A recent change is the cathedral established in Amaryl's name on this very level. The two of you share a love for forests, Zariel, so perhaps you would like to visit and see how it compares to Sylica's selection?"
A nod, "I would like to see that," Zariel says, her voice carrying throughout the cathedral.
Antenora follows, but stays quiet.
This is your show here with Zariel, Antenora's mostly going to stay out of it.
"It shouldn't be a surprise that Arvandor served as the inspiration," Seira says, guiding the three of them into the outer ring where, before long, they are lost amidst the trees. "Still, an influence just as important is the elven nation of Pallanth upon our Prime of birth. It is where Amaryl grew up and where we met, and if I'm not mistaken--" Seira smiles, as the trees part into a clearing, complete with turquoise lake in the middle. "Yes, there is a spot just like it in Pallanth's forests, and I've suffered my share of teleport mishaps to keep it memorable even after all this time. Of course, there's no nymph living in this one."
"Beautiful," Zariel murmurs, "It feels just like an elven forest." Her gaze sweeps across the entire expanse, taking in everything here.
Antenora follows, "It suits Amaryl well."
"She's very elfy!" Seira readily agrees. "And really, given her recent ascension Amaryl is barred from setting foot on Prime in person, whereas it would take her a while to get an avatar ready. So having this place helps a lot with that, I think."
"Is Amaryl here?" Zariel goes to the lake and kneels by it, peering into its depths. "I do not sense her nearby, though."
Antenora stays back, just following for the moment.
"She's looking for Sharran plots to dismantle, though I could pass on word that you want to say hi," Seira offers. "She's not committed to anything just yet." Following Zariel's gaze, she asks her, "Fancy a swim?"
Just for reference and not tied to this particular thing, gimme a Diplo check. I may need it for something in the next post or two, which may fall into evening resolution. I'd rather have that than wait on it until the morning.
22:45 <Lucille> roll 1d20+73
22:45 <•Penuche> Lucille invokes Penuche's magic: < 75 > [d20=2]
"Let's," Zariel agrees, beginning to disrobe.
Antenora follows suit, slowly as she adds, "This is secluded and private, is it not?"
"Of course," Seira responds, following suit. Her divine will is enforcing the seclusion and privacy! Since Zariel had said forests held a special meaning to her, Seira has tried to ensure she would have a chance to enjoy and reconnect to them without gawkers.
Zariel soon hops in, followed by Antenora. Both swim a little, enjoying the cool waters.
"There's water in Hell, but seldom satisfying. In retrospect I can see that applies universally to everything in Hell. What appears good rarely satisfies in a meaningful way. It merely feeds the worst of you, binds you deeper to Hell's will." Zariel remarks, slowly floating on the surface of the water. "How had I been so blind and consumed by hate to forget such a thing?"
"Hell is a nation of fools," Antenora stays in place now, up to her neck in the water. "Where one hateful soul makes all else dance for his amusement. Asmodeus..." Breathing the name out, "One day I will see you die, monster. I will see the Serpent's Throne smote from above and Nessus lit with holy radiance so bright as to scorch away all the wicked. I will see the end of Hell, be it tomorrow or in a trillion years."
"Because we can feel love, be it affection or friendship," Seira muses, floating lazily on her back and staring at the distant sunlight in-between the canopies of the trees, "we also feel its absence sharply. To lose such bonds so suddenly makes us vulnerable, and Hell's quite good at exploiting those moments of weakness. Sounds corny, doesn't it? But I think it's a big part in why things are the way they are."
"Perhaps, but I don't think you're entirely right. Evil can feel love - a twisted mockery of it, torn asunder and puppeted as a necromancer puppets dead flesh, but still love. The obsessive stalker who hurts his love, yet is undoubtedly devoted to her." Antenora says, "The cold satisfaction of taking and using something you care about and dominating it to you, grinding it beneath you."
Zariel heads back towards the two of you, slowly floating in your direction. "Some say hate and love are two sides of the same coin. Even now I'm not sure I know the truth of that, but I know my hate burned as brightly as my love once did."
Antenora gazes up at the sun as well, shadows and sunlight dappling the three of you from above. Soft shadows and warm sunlight, a cloak of day and night rippling over all of you. "Eblis has lost so much and is so lonely, yet his hate still burns bright as his love once did. One is such a lonely number." Antenora's voice trails off slowly. "Is survival at that price worth it, even should all else perish?"
Slowly Zariel turns and adds, "What? I feel as if I missed some of the conversation, Antenora. What does the Nemesis have to do with any of this?"
"...nothing. Nothing at all. My thoughts grapple with questions that may have no answer for lifetimes yet." Antenora softly sighs, "Think nothing of what I said."
With the barest hint of a smile on her face, "You are a beard, walking stick and sour temper away from being a philosopher-sage, you know that?"
"The sour temper is actually optional, although speaking in riddles is a staple."
Zariel chuckles, a musical sound that lightens the air.
Antenora sighs and gazes upwards, "I shall seek to add philosophy to my portfolio then, and do enough to cover us all."
"This actually brings up an interesting question," Seira voices. "Are aspects of our portfolios extensions of our natures? And is it a two-way link? Can you actually acquire a portfolio aspect, and have it change yourself in the process?"
"I believe it flows outward. I came One by being what I was," Antenora says, "And in turn yourself further shapes yourself. How do you feel about your domains and portfolio, Seira?"
"My portfolio and domains reflect me, but not all of me," Seira muses. "A certain key aspect of me is hidden, which makes sense in context. That said, however, I've had other deities teach me about fire before, which increased my affinity with it. That, in turn, made me likelier to use fire and got me more involved in Fire's events and politics. So how much of that came from within, and how much had an external trigger?"
Seira! Congratulations! So sorry about the delay, but you've advanced forward!"
Waukeen's voice sounds in your mind, warm.
"How much of any of us is us and how much is the affect of others?" Zariel muses. "The same question, asked many times. One can control the self and how one grows and deals with life, but one cannot fully control those beyond them."
"I know, right? And really, where do you set the limits? If a friend says something that resonates with you and you take the concept and run with it, is it your decision how to grow? Maybe. But is it yours alone? That I'm not sure about, and that's fine! It's the best way to avoid a one-woman echo chamber."
Seira grins, and dives under the water.
Thanks! she sends to Waukeen in response. I hope that it opens a few fresh ventures for us~
The water muffles a reply - but there's hardly one anyway, both thinking on it.
So it will. I really will be over soon, and perhaps with a Mercane. I'm talking with one and they're talking about a new venture to the Cauldron, so perhaps we'll make a meeting of it.
You're always welcome, you know that. Zariel is visiting right now, if you want to say hi!
You're always so busy getting things done. I may, though I only knew her in passing before her unfortunate fall from grace.
Resurfacing, Seira asks, "So what's your impression of Alicia's realm? For all that we're close, I never got the chance to just lose myself there for a while."
"A mirror," Zariel says as Antenora frowns. "A mirror that reflects. Not because of unoriginality, but because together they are whole. Perhaps an attempt at an answer for pure good by combining one of law and one of chaos."
"Yeah, you know, I'm really okay with that? Good is right, Evil is wrong, but do we really care whether Law or Chaos triumph? Even though I favor balance, I think they can coexist and Creation's inhabitants won't suffer as a result."
"Yes," Antenora and Zariel say at the same time, then Antenore presses forward, "Law has to triumph."
"Just so we're clear on this," Seira muses, "do you agree with me that the ethical aspects are more important? Slaad can be a pain and utterly immoral, but you'd prefer Creation had slaad rather than fiends if you could choose one? And as a follow-up question, you don't actually advocate resolving the Law vs Chaos question via actual combat between the camps?"
"Of course," Antenora says, "Better slaad than demons. But? It depends. I'll draw no quarrel with an eladrin nor bear arms against them. Slaad and demons are different."
Zariel is silent here a moment, listening.
"It's been my experience that Law and Chaos clash, but while in the heavens this is an ideological debate and Mechanus and Limbo elegantly ignore the other's existence where they can, in the lower planes we have the Blood War," Seira says to Zariel. "In fact, we would be hard-pressed to find a devil or a demon who would see a resolution for it that didn't result in absolute victory and elimination of the other side. Has your experience been different?"
"In the end, they will see the..." Antenora pauses, "I want to say light of order, but that is a poor choice of phrase. They will not be hurt, but instead come to understand we're right. A war of words, rather than a battle of steel and blood."
"Maybe they will!" Seira cheerfully agrees. "Having the freedom to choose, and to debate amiably as much as we want to. Focus on amiably~"
"Hah, the Blood War," Zariel says, a bitter sound. "Something with no hope of resolution any eon soon. Do the arguments of law and chaos between archon and eladrin come any closer to resolution than that?"
Antenora looks up and exhales, "If Marie is any bellwether, then no."
"Still," Seira notes, deciding to dissent. "There is some acceptance between the sides. From what I recall Kascha telling me, one of Celestia's Dukes is an Anarch, and was in fact an Anarch before being granted his title."
"Oh?" Antenora says, "I'll have to ask her about that, but as I recall, even orderly creatures have the potential to be Anarchs."
"We have some in our armies, but it's rarer in ordered creatures," Zariel says, then frowns, "I had some in my armies, rather."
"Speaking of armies! I'm formulating a new doctrine where the use of common soldiers is outdated on our scale. I feel that elite forces are those that should take to the field, actually quite similar to adventuring parties. And unlike adventurers, they can actually deal effectively with armies that take the field against them. Do you see any errors in this approach, Zariel?"
"It depends on the details. The mighty have long crushed the weaker," she says, "But numbers are a force of their own, if one is willing to spend enough manpower." A look of consideration, "What are your tactics in depth?"
"Shock and awe for the direct combat troops. While quantity has a quality of its own, the saying goes, no foot soldier will bravely fight to the death when he sees his comrades attack and get swatted uselessly aside. Even a veteran company of the Blood War that came across myself and Alicia thought better of fighting us, and opted for retreat."
Seira mulls over the rest, splashing in place in the meanwhile and sending lily pads floating away. "I haven't decided whether to stick with similar units, or go for joint operations. Both have them pros and cons. Anyway! Just as there are special direct combat units, there would be groups of elite covert operatives. Deploying both types on the same battlefield would allow them to play off each other and enhance the other's skills."
She shrugs then. "It's a very simple idea of brute forcing your way in very overtly, while finessing towards a solution covertly, and having the two meet at a desired point in-between."
Oh Seira, we're here!
An interruption, Waukeen's voice traveling to your mind.
"Oh, before you answer that, Waukeen stopped by for a visit," Seira tells the girls. "Want to invite her over, or do you want to move on? There's plenty forest here since space is a function of will, so we could wander some more. There's even a really nice canyon I've been meaning to explore in person!"
"I'll decline for now," Zariel says, "I need more time to think and see the elements you speak of."
"I can visit if you like, I have no hurry," Antenora says. Then in your mind, 'Unless you want me to watch Zariel.'
"Sure thing! You don't have to answer me right away, after all. It's just... I had the realization that armies aren't cutting it anymore at our level, and roughly what should replace them well, but I'm still working on all the finer points. So an informed opinion is better than an off the cuff one." Seira pushes herself fully to the lake's surface and magically dries herself off. "As for the elements, see if you can say hi to the All-Elemental. Her personifies my approach of elements that are normally in opposition, but happen to compliment each other so that the whole is greater than the parts."
To Antenora, she tells, "I'm sure Waukeen would like to say hi, so that works." It should also answer her mental offer, given that Seira is extending trust to her guest.
'Antenora and I will be over soon,' she responds to Waukeen after a moment's delay.
Cool. Where do you want to meet them?
Let's find a secluded spot at Portal Central~
Done and done.
Waukeen strides in, gown of gold and joins resplendent. Her hair is up in a bun criss-crossed with wires of pure gold, her face imperious and perfectly suited to be on one of her many coins. "Seira, Antenora," she greets, "Everyone deserves congratulations, I see."
A step behind her is a mercane. The mercane in quest is tall and clad in rich purple, fingers long and body lean. He walks with a slow, ponderous gait, hands folded together in front of him as he walks. "Dragon Princess," he greets to you, a polite murmuring after Waukeen.
Seira is dressed in her regular adventuring outfit, it being all-purpose and tailored to be comfortable for a variety of situations. "So we do!" she readily agrees. "And thanks for coming in person for that, Waukeen!"
She directs her attention to the mercane next, saying, "Welcome to the Cauldron, Mister...?"
"Head Banker Roelas," The mercane introduces himself, bowing to you.
"For this, dear? This deserves celebration," Waukeen says, "How rare it is to advance and how lovely a thing. Of course I came here for this." Her lips curl into a smile, softening her expression. "Goodness, I so love seen an investment pay dividends!"
All smiles, Seira leads the four of them to an out of the way alcove equipped with a low table and four elegant chairs. "Since you mentioned investments, I figured we would meet here, where we could see one of them," she goes on to say. "Just another step on the way of becoming a trading hub~"
Antenora sits down and merely says, "You sit in the presence of divinity," her voice is stirring, commanding. "What have you brought to us?"
Waukeen sits next, "Oh, the best sort of thing - money and trade. It's like romance, but even better."
Roelas waits for you to sit before sitting himself, "Oh, merely to discuss certain realities and opportunities. We've found your Cauldron to be a fascinating place as it is, as well as a profitable stop on Astral trading routes."
"It does that," Seira agrees. "And I'm slowly trying to expand my portal network into select Primes alongside the usual destinations."
"We have ample experience with portal networks, if you would like a consult," Roelas offers, "For a reasonable fee, of course. While I am certain your skill with portal networks is vast, the weight of ages has taught us many lessons as well." A bit of a smile after that, "But really," he says, bowing his head to you, "That is not why I came, precisely."
As Seira gets comfortable she hears her old friend Alicia's voice interrupting! Seira, I was just approached by Roelas of the Mercane Consortium looking to open trading links with Sylica and offering to integrate Consortium intelligence services with our own. Have you or Waukeen heard of anything strange occurring in the Consortium lately? The whole thing is passing strange.
'The Head Banker Roelas is here at present,' Seira responds to Alicia. 'Brought by Waukeen herself, so his identity is not in doubt. Is he actually over there as well?'
"Oh?" she voices. "While I'm interested in seeing your approach, I've felt that mine has worked rather well. True, I don't have the experience of ages, but I am an archmage with a hobby."
"Well, then perhaps we can discuss a discount, purely to satisfy your intellectual curiosity?" Roelas concedes, "We can happily work out something that would suit you."
Antenora merely stays calm, "What exactly is this fee? Wizardly help of that level seldom comes cheaply."
"Not to mention, but where does the Mercane Consortium run portal networks, whether inter or intra-planar?"
How curious. He's still here. I'll have Marie intercept him.
"Well," Roelas smiles, spreading his hands, "Much of our work is private-"
Here Waukeen clears her throat, "This is no time for false modesty, Roelas." Her smile is just ever so slightly too sweet, a hint of an edge to it. "The mercane so love helping set up portal networks and trade routes, and coaxing others into accepting them. It enables their business model to prosper all the more. It's an admirable investment into their investments. Of course they also have many private projects to their own profit as well."
"Ah." Merely clearing his throat after, "It is as the Golden Lady says," Roelas concedes.
"Ah, I see. Before we discuss such ventures further, would you mind if I asked whether you're one of those curious people who have mastered the ability to be in several places at once? Or, perhaps, if others in your family are used as high level diplomats?"
Roelas smiles at that, "Ah," he spreads his hands, "May I ask you what gave it away?"
In your mind Amaryl sends, 'Emily and friends just brought a subdued Sharran to our front door. Rather like cats but more agreeable. I'll take care of it since you're busy.'
"I believe there's a time to play coy," Seira muses out loud. "I did just that when my daughter brought over... a friend. But if we are to have meaningful cooperation going forward, perhaps we might dial down on that, Head Banker? Perhaps, even, by having you answer a rather innocent question on the face of it without being prompted by the Golden Lady each time before you grudgingly do so?"
To Amaryl, she sends, 'I did think you, Donald and Elle wanted to bust up some Sharrans. Why don't you get at his plots and his master and make a mess of things?'
"Ah," Merely going on from that, "I apologize for the misunderstanding, then." Roelas says. "May I continue and clarify things?"
"Please do so."
To Alicia, she sends, 'Roelas is about to explain matters to me.'
"As the portals go, I meant to dissemble nothing. Instead, I merely wished to be discreet and understated, something that the Golden Lady was more than within her authority to say otherwise," Roelas bows his head to all of you a long moment. "Regardless, my goal was to explain the matter in greater depth as the conversation proceeded."
"Well, it seems there are misunderstandings at the start, so let's try to eliminate those? Aside from right here, where else are you at present right now, Head Banker?"
"Sylica," Roelas says plainly, "Anything else is a private matter. No offense meant," he says, "But beyond confirming that the Roelas in Sylica is myself, I do not wish to further discuss this issue. My ability is a trade secret, you must understand."
"Oh," Waukeen smiles, sharply, sizing him up, "I know a few means on which you could do this. I can rule out the Grove of Harethal, as you seem far too sane for that. A lovely place, if not for Demogorgon being behind the magic there. It's really too bad."
'He admitted to being in Sylica and in other, undisclosed locations as well. Strange. Waukeen seemed surprised,' Seira relays to Alicia.
It's hardly a trade secret when flaunted so blatantly, Seira muses, but decides not to voice her thoughts.
"In that case, let us proceed past this diversion," she voices. "You mentioned that you had a chief reason for the visit?"
Roelas merely bows his head again, "The Dragon Princess is correct," Roelas concedes, "Shall we continue?"
Waukeen waves a hand, "If that's what Seira wishes, this is her realm."
Clapping his hands together softly, "Wonderful. Now, as you continue to grow and prosper, we would like to establish a Consortium bank in the Cauldron."
"Do go on," she invites him.
"Before I continue, may I inquire to the state of your financial institutions?" Roelas asks. "Do you have or plan your own banking institutions?"
"I have such plans," Seira agrees, inclining her head at him, "although I could be persuaded to choose another option."
Waukeen chuckles here, "Of course, a mercane bank is useful, but should hardly be your only institution. Why, allow me to state Brightwater Mutual's interest in opening a bank here."
Roelas barely bat an eyelash at it, but you catch the slight twitch. "As you desire, Golden Lady. May I continue?"
Antenora smiles faintly at that, "Ah, how generous of you, Waukeen."
"Of course. I'd be only too happy to listen to your offer."
At that Alicia contacts Seira. The one here vouched for the one in the Cauldron as well. Strange but it's his own business I suppose. Doesn't seem to be a simulacrum or avatar.
"Well," Roelas continues, "First of all, you'd have access to mercane finance, trade and all the benefits that come with that. Our service is renowned across Creation for its ability and discretion. We can take care of all manner of things without it becoming public knowledge."
"Including assassinations?" Antenora's voice is quiet, but her gaze is intent on Roelas.
'You're being a bit rude, don't you think?' Seira thinks to Antenora. 'Keeping a bit of pressure up is one thing, but we won't get to hear about his plans if he's pushed into a corner every other sentence.'
"Mmm," she hums noncommittally. "Discretion has its place of honor."
'Very well,' Antenora says, waving the question off with a wave of her hand.
Roelas clears his throat, "The question is understandable, but no, the Consortium does not deal in assassinations. Firstly, I was going to speak of our financial services. Should the Cauldron need money or need money sent beyond the Cauldron, we are always able to help in a discreet way."
"And the same, no doubt, applies to any sort of financial initiative I would like to lead across the planes."
"Precisely so, so long as we do not find it untenable or against our own interests," Roelas confirms. "Do you have anything in mind you'd wish to elaborate on there?"
Waukeen watches, more on you than Roelas.
I do believe seeing how well you can handle him shall be productive for you and a pleasant pass time for me. Please, continue with him.
"I certainly wouldn't be bringing it up otherwise," Seira agrees. "However, I do believe that I should first listen to your offer in its entirety before bringing new elements into this."
"As you like," Roelas consents, "While we do not offer such things as assassinations, we offer various services. Such as if you need a magic item taken to someone in a hostile place, such as Baator or Fury's Heart. We can send advisors, aid and similar things as well to people in those locations, and see to the extraction of people from those places to safer locations."
"What's your success rate for extractions of high-value personal prisoners of the Lords of Hell?" Seira asks curiously, hoping for a number that's not zero.
"Understanding the difficulties involved?" Roelas says, "I don't have the numbers on hand, but around 1%. Frankly, diplomacy is far more effective. I wouldn't call it a suicide mission, but it's the next closest thing." Spreading his hands out, "But I know you understand that and I respect asking it to see how far our power goes."
"And what of your more public services or accomplishments?" Seira inquires. "Those that you would actually be able to provide references from satisfied customers for?"
Antenora pauses a moment, attention seemingly elsewhere.
"Why, you would have to narrow it down - we provide many such services," Roelas says, "But far, far, far higher. All but the most derelict deities and planar lords have the ability to stymie rescue missions. Compared to that near impossibility, other tasks are simplistic."
"An interesting proposal," Seira voices. "Still, what benefit to me is there in bringing over competition to my own efforts? The services of the Consortium are valuable, yet I sincerely doubt I would be turned down as a customer regardless of agreeing to host a bank or entering a closer trade partnership."
"First of all, access. Those who want to trade with you but can't for political or positional reasons can now do so. Perhaps a merchant in Brightwater wishes to trade his wares with you, but one of his partners blocks him. So thus he trades with us and we bring his goods here, all through channels that can't be traced and allowing both sides to profit - the merchant expands his reach and wares while you get more goods coming through." Roelas sits back now, hands in his lap. "We enable trade when other factors compete against it."
"That is quite the advantage," Seira agrees. "I believe we've covered the general terms, Head Banker, so shall we get to the specifics? There are two things that I am interested in and the Mercane Consortium might provide. All the information you could provide me on Yemimah's situation with the intention of improving the chances of her rescue, and application of varying tariffs on slave traders and the practice of slavery across the Inner Planes. Naturally, I request your usual discretion where it comes to clients even if we are unable to come to a satisfying agreement."
Antenora's attention comes fully back, intent on Roelas now.
Waukeen chuckles, "Do keep the rates within a reasonable amount," she says, a soft chiding there.
Roelas merely nods, "We could provide that, of course. To the second, how in depth do you want it to be?"
"What do you mean by in-depth?"
"There can be variance in tarrifs, slave trading and such on a local level versus the kingdom or national level," Roelas says, "Do you need that level of detail or are you searching for a more generalized viewpoint?"
"I'm keeping my focus down to a reasonable region of the Inner Planes, which applies, let's face it, only to Fire and Earth. And of those two Fire is the much more active market for such. Within this region, I the only variance I would like is between slave owners and slave traders, with the higher tariffs levied against the latter."
"Very well, I can bring that desire to the Consortium, but you must understand. The Consortium does not directly deal in slaves, so even if we pass that resolution, we can only influence." Roelas explains.
"Said influence is what I had in mind, although I'm heartened to hear that the Consortium doesn't have a hand in the practice of slavery. Take a notorious slave trader on Fire. Were he to wish to use your trading services, I would like him to have to pay an extra. A premium, shall we say, that he will find uncomfortable, yet remains at the edge of acceptable losses. And were slave owners wish to trade with the Consortium, they too will need to pay extra, but nowhere near this amount, so there are clear and visible tiers in place."
Do bear in mind that officially and in reality are two entirely different worlds.
"That would be a massive impact on trade," Roelas remarks, "May I speak frankly?" He leans forward a little bit, waiting on that.
I understand that much. Pressing the point would do nothing, however, and I'll deal with such strays the way I'll deal with the efreet.
"Certainly," Seira agrees with Roelas. "Please do so."
Going on then, "The Consortium would require vast motivation to take such a step due to the losses and interruptions in trade it would bring." Roelas gestures out at the table, "To lose a feast in peace, another feast must be provided. Moreso because this will doubtless have repercussions against us, costing us more and further removing us from markets in reprisals."
Precisely. I watch your negotiations with great interest.
"Looking at the larger picture, whose side do you think is ascendant? Us, or the lower planes?" Seira calmly inquires. "They've had their turn, and failed miserably. Now, we're pushing onwards by making use of those mistakes. If you share this observation, that would be one reason to get on from the start, while the terms are the most favorable."
She doesn't linger on that argument, soon slipping into another. "The matter with tariffs is also quite complicated, economically. You cannot say, straightforwardly, that losses or interruptions in trade will result. First, because lost business only takes place when alternate means of supply are allowed to replace you, which is not the case. Second, because the revenue from those choosing to take the material hit will increase, and I estimate the outcome to be roughly the same for the Consortium, financially. Officially, that is."
"You estimate?" Roelas replies when you're done, "Do you have numbers and figures for that? I would be most interested in seeing them, as would the Consortium."
"Certainly," Seira responds sweetly. "Please provide the Consortium's records, and I will help you draw the necessary conclusions free of charge."
"I will get back to you on that," Roelas says, "Do you have any other points of interest from us?"
"I'm interested in collaborations with the Consortium to sweeten the deal, although were we to actually pool our resources together I would be interested in having some say in the Consortium's agenda and goals. Whichever option you are more comfortable with, I'm certain we can reach a mutually-beneficial understanding if we work at it."
"Of course," Roelas says, "I will convey that intent back to the Consortium."
"I shall await a favorable response, then."
Roelas rises and bows, leaving. Once gone Waukeen says, ""As he's the new Head Banker, there's been a shift in the mercane leadership," she remarks. "Quite the considerable one."
"I realized that much, given the blatant flaunting of his power and the way the Consortium has been expanding recently," Seira responds, having ensured that their privacy remains undisturbed and keeping an eye on Roelas to make sure he leaves her realm without incident. "What can you tell me about the situation?"
Waukeen nods slightly, "While the mercane have no true patron, they both respect me and have means to protect themselves and keep secrecy," Waukeen begins, "Over the ages they've accrued some of the best security measures in Creation, all to ensure their deepest politics stay a mystery to us. My position gives me some added insight, however. Their previous Head Banker and other high positions have been shifted. A single position being taken is part of politics, as is it sometimes being bought out. This is a deeper realignment, above and beyond the usual. Right now I'm pursuing bribes to try and learn more, but early rumors suggest one mercane is behind it all, one of the most successful power plays in eons if so."
"Oh? Do you know who?"
"I'm working on it, they haven't made official announcements yet," Waukeen says, "Which means there's dramatics in the air," Smiling now, "Which means money is there to be made!"
"It doesn't feel right to me," Seira admits, "but gut feelings or not, I'm going to see if we can cooperate. In the end, what I'm asking is not that difficult. Do you think I'm likely to get my wish? And what would you expect them to ask in return?"
"As of now, I'm not certain until I know who came out on top," Waukeen says, "As well as the disposition of the new leaders."
"Troubling," Antenora says, "By the way, the two of us had a telepathic conversation. He initiated the contact and we had a discussion about my recent ascension. He was completely congratulatory."
"I suppose we shouldn't dwell on this until we know more," Seira muses, before smiling at Waukeen. "Did you have any ventures of your own to propose? Or this is entirely a social call on your part?"
"Well..."
This a good point to pause on, Cor, unless you had something to bring up here?
Sure, we can pause.
Then a pausing we will go.
Locking since it's new thread time.