D-ED 001

[Corwin]

[20:37] <Alicia> [19:12] <Kotono> With a sudden snort, Antenora laughs just a tiny little bit. "Yes, yes I do understand that. My reason for having no desire for a child is a warped reflection of that; it would be a weakness to be exploited by Hell. I suppose the only worthwhile answer is to marry Demedais or another male hero?" The last even gets her to smile again all the way.
[20:37] <Alicia> [19:17] <Alicia> "Ahh, but then you'd both be away," Alicia waggles a finger in Antenora's face, "Having to leave your progeny in the hands of a nanny while his or her parents ensure a safe world to grow up in." She pauses for a moment to let that settle before proceeding, "But you are right, people like us have powerful enemies."
[20:37] <Alicia> [19:17] <Alicia> "Losing my loved ones to happenstance and negligence was one thing, but to lose them because someone explicitly killed them to get my attention? That would be incomparably worse."
[20:40] <Kotono> Antenora eyes that finger, but doesn't comment on it. "Isn't it sad, though?" Antenora continues apace. "Even outside of it's realm, Hell uses it's influence to regulate joy and bliss, trying to grind it into nothing. Merely the feat of what Hell will do does this."
[20:44] <Kotono> *fear
[20:46] <Alicia> "Perhaps so," Alicia acknowledges, "But, if my sacrifices in fighting such evil allows for others to live their lives in peace and security, I think that's something I can be happy about."
[20:51] <Kotono> "Yeah," Antenora murmurs, before looking around. "We'll be going back to battle soon. Are you ready?"
[20:53] <Alicia> "I'm well rested, healed of my wounds, and I've recovered all the magic I expended, yesterday," Alicia confirms. "I'm as ready as it's possible to get. What about yourself?"
[20:56] <Kotono> "....I'm anxious. Hell won't go down without a superb battle and taking a base will be costly. What happens if you die?" Antenora says this with a sad look in her eyes, "Your life is fleeting...and you're right, you'll be facing death that day. What about your sister?"
[21:03] <Alicia> "If I die then I'll have died making a safe world for Jessica to live in," Alicia answers with steel in her voice, though she then changes to a more wistful tone as she goes on, "She's a grown woman, and she knows enough to take care of herself. I won't fear for her future." Shaking her head, she puts a hand on Antenora's shoulder, "Don't let such maudlin thoughts preoccupy you, though. I intend to live for a good while longer, believe me."
[21:06] <Kotono> "Why not? I know full well that devils will line up to die, if it has any chance of killing you ...or myself, or any of us." Antenora's own smile is slightly sad, "Bah. You're right. I'm overthinking it, aren't I? Next I'll be sniffling like a child."
[21:09] <Alicia> "And nothing's even happened, yet!" Alicia laughs softly, shaking her head as she withdraws her hand. "Come on, we've already beaten the best they had to offer - Conventa, an actual hellish dragon, the warlock. Unless they've been holding something really huge in reserve, we should prevail once more. Besides, it won't be just our group for the final assault, so their numeric advantage won't count for as much."
[21:14] <Kotono> "Yes, you're right." Antenora smiles, "Let's go. This'll be finished soo."

[Corwin]

[20:39] <Kotono> --
[20:41] <Kotono> As Seira prepares, going to her tent to do a few thigns, she finds Donald there. He's grinning from ear to ear, idly tossing a silver, winged helmet hand from hand. "Yo, Seira!" he says.
01[20:41] <Seira> "You break it, you bought it-- oh wait." Seira tilts her head. "Something isn't quite right, here."
[20:44] <Kotono> "Are you kidding?" Donald takes a moment to put the helmet on. It matches with his mithril armor rather well, both silver-shine. "Yeah, I know, I can't cut it as a paladin, but this isn't that bad! Look at it," Tapping the side of his head, a soft metal clink heard.
01[20:45] <Seira> "I never kid about taking responsibility for breaking things," Seira responds, snorting. She heads fully inside, going to organize her scrolls. "Use it for great justice and all that, alright?"
[20:47] <Kotono> "Of course!" Still grinning as he watches Seira go, "I'll make sure to use it when we crush the devil's base. That should do it."
01[20:50] <Seira> "As long you don't die," she agrees. "And this time, at least, let's fight closely together? I still believe we can make the most effective team in this situation. I could support you with blade and magic in just about any situation, while you stripping the devils of their best protections would in turn leave them largely harmless and susceptible to my own attacks."
[20:52] <Kotono> "That's the plan," Donald's exubrance flows over, "To be serious? From what all the angels have said, the biggest fight is coming up now. We really do need to stay together. From what I imagine, it'll be like taking a fortoress full of devils and devil created traps. The worst of the worst."
01[20:53] <Seira> "Ah, traps. Soon, we shall meet again."
[20:56] <Kotono> "I wonder what they'll be like?" Donald muses, "Poison? Sure. Mechanical traps? Probably. Giant pits full of hellfire? Horrible spells that turn you into mice? Doorways that send you careening into Hell itself? Gasses that turn you into a mindless murderer?" Ticking off his fingers, "Another reason to stay close to you - you're the best at disarming that I know."
01[20:57] <Seira> "You do know I trigger a surprising amount for my skill level?" Seira asks him, eyes hooded. "I'm just immortal, so the traps, they do nothing."
[20:58] <Kotono> "...Eeek." Donald blushes a little, "Are you trying to tellm ethat I should keep a distance?"
01[20:59] <Seira> "Naturally. Even the best of the best always have a chance of being distracted at a key moment, and there are traps where it's best to trigger them rather than waste time on disabling. It's always a judgement call, then, and I can't really make one if someone's near me at the time."
[21:02] <Kotono> "Encouraging," Donald cracks a bigger smile, "Oh, since he's the biggest and most durable of us, should we use Dmeedais for those we need to trigger?"
01[21:02] <Seira> "I won't stop you from suggesting it."
[21:05] <Kotono> "Oh good." Chuckling to himself, "I'm sure he'll be just fine, anyway. Stupid, stuck up jerk...I still miss my old sword."
06[21:06] * Seira pauses. "Really?" she asks, blinking. "I can get it back for you."
[21:10] <Kotono> "If you can find it whereever in Valandia it ended up, great!" Donald perks up, "The guard took it when Demedais got me thrown in jail. For all I know it's in some dusty storeroom, or being used, or hanging over some watchguard's mantle.:
01[21:11] <Seira> "Give me the area and the date, and we're good," she says, nodding. "Should be a piece of cake."
[21:11] <Kotono> "It was the guard station by the southern gate. It was...Lathander. It was several months ago, back in the summer when Demedais was travelling to Balmuria. I was heading back myself, but I had the misfortune for that to happen."
06[21:12] * Seira nods once more. "You are quite in luck. For a symbolic fee, you are about to be reunited with your favorite weapon!"
[21:13] <Kotono> Donald's face falls a bit, "Oh, a symbolic fee?" he asks, eyeing Seira. "How much IS that, anyway?"
01[21:14] <Seira> "I'll let you know," Seira says, a smile appearing.
[21:17] <Kotono> "..uh oh..." Donald murmurs as he looks at Seira's smile.
06[21:18] * Seira raises an eyebrow, but doesn't comment out loud. "So, then," she asks. "Met any pretty angels here?"
[21:19] <Kotono> Donald's interest instantly returns. "They're all gorgeous," he says, "Well, the ones that aren't more animal than human or so sacred and awe inspiring that I can't even look at them. They're all so dedicated, but I did talk to a few..." Donald does slow there, shaking his head. "I felt like glass after each time. It's like they saw through me."
01[21:20] <Seira> "You could, you know, just approach them honestly. Some of them might be bored of the oh-so-perfect celestials they usually spend time with."
[21:22] <Kotono> "Oh, I did." Donald smiles a little more, picking up, "It's just that I got the feeling right away that they knew exactly what I was hoping for. They weren't cruel or cold at all, just..." He spreads his hands out, opening them. "IT's strange talking ot them. It's different."
01[21:26] <Seira> "I'm somewhat tempted, but then, I'm kinda not." Seira shrugs. "It's strange, but when the entire exercise would be just to see if you could it sounds pretty pointless. I suppose you would be better off with a human girl, anyway."
[21:27] <Kotono> "I don't know..." Donald looks away, his voice becoming different. "I feel different when I'm around one, too. They're becoming, but it's also very...religious and spiritual. Do you have any idea how much of a headache I got when I wanted to pray and make a move on a girl at the same time?"
01[21:28] <Seira> "Can't say that I do," Seira says frankly. "Well, their leader tried to use his holy beams of holiness on me, but I just did my best to ignore them or brush them off. They can be very distracting when negotiating something, after all."
[21:30] <Kotono> "It's not a bad thing entirely. I think. Just...say, would you make a move on one of them if they caought your interest, theoretically?" Donald asks.
02[21:31] * Serith (~iron_drag@cpe-76-183-251-6.tx.res.rr.com) Quit (Ping timeout)
01[21:32] <Seira> "In a flash," Seira affirms, nodding for good measure. "I think I'd succeed, too." She tilts her head. "Well, that's not quite it. Without an attitude like that, if you don't think you'll make it work, it probably wouldn't. So what would be the point in trying something you consider doomed from the start. Does this make sense to you?"
[21:33] <Kotono> "Don't go into something unless you think you'll win?" Donald asks. "Like how I remember being told not to fight a battle unless I know I can win?"
01[21:35] <Seira> "That's... not quite it, though it's decent advice for your average person," Seira muses. "You must decide to seize the win. Once you had, your will is enough to achieve the impossible! You just need to keep at it, and naturally prepare to the best of your ability, because pure luck is rarely enough."
[21:36] <Kotono> "Yeah, I think I got that one. I have the ears to remind me of it," Donald's voice lowers. "AT least girls think they're cute...But anyway. We're gonna have to seize it soon, though. Maybe after it's all done, since I don't think everything's going to vanish the moment the gate closes...hmm..."
01[21:38] <Seira> "We?" she asks curiously. "Someone's actually shown interest in me?"
[21:39] <Kotono> "Yeah, didn't you have that one celestial following you around and talking to you?" Donald asks. "Or was that business?"
01[21:40] <Seira> "I don't really like the way that sounds, so let's take the third option and call it making friends."
[21:41] <Kotono> "Mmm." Donald nods thoughtfully at that. "Speaking of that, I wanted to talk to you about friends. You know Pallanth and all that? I hear about it enough - I can't count the number of times drunks have asked about it . Hell, one guy even asked when I was dragging him out. That and dragons...weirdo. Anyway, what's Pallanth like?"
01[21:42] <Seira> "Lots of forests. Trees are pretty. Capital, very very pretty. Elves live there."
[21:45] <Kotono> "I think I'd like to go one day now. I don't wanna become some tree loving stereotype, but I suppose I should know a little. It's way easier to fake that than try to explain reincarnation." He sighs suddenly, "I lost one girl when I told her that, since she thought I was a ghost that was going to steal her soul."
01[21:48] <Seira> "Well, that's just the rangers. Quite a lot of elves have never hugged a tree nor feel the urge to," Seira tells Donald, shrugging when he mentions reincarnation. "And you're better off without a stupid girl like that, I hope you realize. Just tell the next one you like them pointy, and ask if she does, too."
[21:51] <Kotono> For some reason that gets Donald to snicker. "Yeah, that's about what I did after. She was cute. Not so smart, but cute. Aaah. Also, did you meet that girl the Countess hired yet? She got an assissant since she's so busy now or whatever. Anyway, does she ever take that hood down? I'm curious to what she looks like."
01[21:53] <Seira> "I'll be sure to pay her a visit and ask her how she looks underneath her clothing," Seira tells him in response.
[21:55] <Kotono> "Oh tha-" Donald's face twitches slightly. "Hey!"
01[21:57] <Seira> "If you're not interested I'll just leave you at home, then."
[22:02] <Kotono> "Hmph," Donald eyes Seira long, before laughing a bit. "We'll see. But..." he gets up, "I should go do a bit of practice and get ready. It won't be long now, will it?"
01[22:04] <Seira> "Yes. In fact, how about asking some pretty summoners to get you something to practice on?"
01[22:05] <Seira> "I think you really should try and get the hang of all your abilities, as well as understand the proper time for using each individual ability, so it all meshes perfectly," Seira adds thoughtfully. "For that, it'd be really nice to go all out."
[22:06] <Kotono> "I'll ask," Donald says, "Seira...thanks," he says with a big smile, before stepping out of the tent.

[Corwin]

[18:42] <Kotono> ------- - - - - -
[18:49] <Kotono> As Seira finishes checking over her scrolls, she idly hears someone entering the tent. It can't be Donadl, he left awhile ago.
06[18:49] * Seira glances towards the tent's flap, not particularly concerned.
[18:56] <Kotono> A little fairy like creature flutters just inside. It's a female in bright clothes, eyes sweeping the tent.
06[18:56] * Seira tries waving at her.
[19:01] <Kotono> "Aaah." Sighing out in relief as it flutters in, "Oh!" It looks Seira overa  moment, "...oh, nevermind," she says to the dragon/elf, "I thought you were one of the mortals helping."
06[19:02] * Seira shrugs. "Looking for one in particular?"
[19:08] <Kotono> "No." Shaking her head as she flutters deeper inside, going to perch on a spare bedroll, "Both the worshipper of Helm and the Erinyes they're trying to redeem are...grumpy. Very grumpy. I was worried if I ran into a third one right off." Sitting, "By the way, where are you from? You look like you have dragonblood."
06[19:10] * Seira nods. "You're not wrong." She secures the pack holding her scrolls, and places it away. "How about yourself?"
[19:12] <Kotono> "From the Court of the Stars." She smiles winsomely, "I came with some friends to serve as scouts and to try and help out. Since the angels aggressively took the lead here, there are relatively few eladrin to fight the devils. It's a shame - I know my Tulani friend would've liked to come."
01[19:15] <Seira> "They can be a bit overbearing," Seira agrees. "Can't really imagine someone would actually want to come and fight devils for fun, though. Or did I misunderstand?"
[19:16] <Kotono> "Aaah, knowing the angels, it's just what they do." The little Courre laughs at that, "I'm glad they do. All the evil I've ever seen makes me sick, but I wish there were more eladrin around nonetheless."
01[19:17] <Seira> "Those friends of yours that you mentioned, were they actually prevented from coming?"
[19:19] <Kotono> "Well, from what I heard? The angels asked each realm to send aides. The ones in charged preferred archons, so the eladrin presence is small." Brushing back her pretty bangs, "The leader's a special sort as well, but I didn't get the straight of it."
01[19:21] <Seira> "They should've gone with dragons," Seira states, glancing at her guest. "You really can't go wrong with dragons, don't you think so?"
[19:22] <Kotono> "Mmmm." Thinking, "I've never seen one. They're supposed to be legendarily fearsome. Do you know any...well, I suppose your Mom or Dad is one or some such?"
01[19:23] <Seira> "I've met plenty," Seira says with a smirk. "Though I guess they're too afraid to bring a large presence to Prime to preserve some all-important balance."
[19:24] <Kotono> "Mmmm." A slight nod there, "Balance, balance, balance. Blah, that sounds like one of those stuffy archons talking."
01[19:25] <Seira> "Got no argument, there."
[19:27] <Kotono> "We need to come and beat up those st upid devils, then show all those poor mortals a good time! They're supposed to only live for such a short period, it's not right that they live hard lives as well." Shaking her head, "That Demedais? I'm not sure he knows what fun is. I'd say the same about the Erinyes, but she's...strange. It's nice that she's not evil, but she's very...scary still."
01[19:28] <Seira> "Really? I don't find her particularly scary. What is it about her that makes you think that?"
[19:30] <Kotono> "She's just menancing. Whenever she saw us she got this look on her face. I really got the impression she didn't like us." The Courre shakes her head, "Maybe she's a stuffy, evil Erinyes turning into a stuffy, good angel? Hm." Letting her fingers tap on her knee, "Does that make snese to you?"
01[19:30] <Seira> "Not at all," Seira says bluntly. "But I'm not afraid of stuffiness. Or goofiness."
[19:32] <Kotono> "Heh, heh," Laughing a little, "You seem pretty mellow. So you've met the mortals? What did you think of them?"
01[19:34] <Seira> "They don't lose to celestials in prettiness. I was somewhat curious about that before, but now I know for certain. Everyone fighting together is nice. I was worried that things might not work out, due to personality clashes or what not."
03[19:35] * Taishyr (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) has joined #evildunes
03[19:36] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Taishyr
03[19:36] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[19:37] <Kotono> "Mmmm." The eladrin thinks, before nodding. "That's true-Oh! Sorry, I forgot I was supposed to only hide for a bit and then meet up with my friends!" Bowing as she rises, "Sorry! Nice to talking to you!"
01[19:38] <Seira> "Sure," Seira responds, giving her another wave. "Come visit any time!"

[Corwin]

[16:27] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> ---
[16:28] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> One moment Alicia's bantering and discussing hammers, the next moment her vision is a blur as she realises she's falling!
06[16:28] * Alicia instantly arrests her fall with her power of flight, and floats back up!
[16:31] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Alicia falls only a little bit, getting a glimpse of below before she ascends back up. A long fall into what looks to be some sort of hall. Statues a hundred feet tall raise up, the tops only about thirty feet below the pit. They're of a humanoid being in a conical cap, a beard and a face that inspires fear within Alicia, but she only gets a glimpse. OOC - #dunes.

[Corwin]

[22:42] <Kotono> ----
[22:44] <Kotono> Woosh! In a moment Alicia appears home! It's quite here, peaceable. But after a moment sounds are heard. The distant noises of the street and the temple, warmth flooding Alicia's body. Home at last, even under these circumstances.
[22:45] <Alicia> No way to know if Jessica is even home right now, but if she is... "Jessica?" the paladin calls, setting down her pack as she steps into the hall.
[22:45] <Kotono> Antenora looks about, "Jessica!" she calls, raising her voice. From her room, it's door closed, "...huh? Sister?" Jessica's voice answers back.
[22:47] <Alicia> "Ah, good, you're home," Alicia smiles, heading upstairs. "Is everything well?"
[22:48] <Kotono> "Uh, yes," As Jessica replies, Donald shrugs and goes to the kitchen. Antenora follows Alicia upstairs. "I was asleep."
[22:50] <Alicia> "This late in the day?" Alicia asks in surprise. "Oh, well, I'll make lunch if you want to come downstairs for something to eat once you've freshened up?" she offers, not wanting to have this conversation by yelling through the house.
[22:51] <Kotono> "Could you bring me soup? I'm sick," she calls back. "I got a cold yesterday."
[22:52] <Alicia> "Oh, okay, just sit tight then, and I'll be up shortly," Alicia calls, looking fairly relieved as she goes back downstairs and into the kitchen.
[22:53] <Kotono> Antenora follows, as yo ufind Donald rooting around for food. "Worries over nothing for now," Antenora smiles.
[22:55] <Alicia> "Perhaps, but who knows when they'll strike? Bad enough I have to worry about myself - at least I can always defend me. But now Jessica could be endangered at any time, too." Gently, she pushes Donald away from the cupboards. "Take a seat, Donald, and I'll make some soup for you," she suggests.
[22:55] <Kotono> With a bit of bread already in hand, "Thanks. Your sister's okay?"
[22:58] <Alicia> "She has a cold, but didn't sound like she's been recently menaced by fiends," Alicia nods as she gathers the utensils and ingredients (assuming Jessica has been properly dilligent about shopping for them), and starts preparing a broth.
[22:58] <Kotono> As Alicia finds that out, "Ooooh, good. So yeah, what was that about Felix the other day, anyway? You looked madder than a dragon there."
[23:01] <Alicia> With her back to Donald as she stands over the stove, the oblivious elf can't see the tightening of Alicia's expression. "Felix was my son," she replies, managing to at least keep her tone neutral.
[23:02] <Kotono> "...ooooooh." Donald nods upa nd down, smothering a yawn in his hand. "...OH! When he went on that bit about...oooooooh! Damn." As Antenora shakes her head and steps away, "...wait, does that mean devils killed your son or some such?"
06[23:04] * Alicia snorts, shaking her head. "No. I'd never even seen a devil until shortly after arriving in Balmuria. He was murdered by human hands," she replies tersely, before taking a deep breath and turning to face Donald. "So, what are your plans, now?" she asks, hopefully making it clear that the previous topic is closed.
[23:07] <Kotono> "After a few days off?" Donald takes a few to take the Hammer of the Shard and idly rest it against the wall. "Get away from that for awhile, catch up with people, throw drunks out of Seira's inn. You know, life. I don't even want to look at a sword or a True Strike spell for at least a week."
[23:08] <Alicia> "It has been an especially violent period," Alicia agrees. "Some respite would be nice," she goes on, stirring the broth as it simmers.
[23:09] <Kotono> "Mmmm." Donald murmurs a few things after, "Something nice to do after. ...Oh yeah. Alicia!" Donald stops. "I wanna ask you something else."
[23:10] <Alicia> "Yes?" Alicia asks, sounding pleasant enough now that they've moved on from painful memories.
[23:11] <Kotono> Taking off his divine helmet and idly rubbing his long ears, "Y'know, since stuff like what brought me back is around..." He stops, "Do you ever think about using it? For your kid." He scratches at those ears, "Yeah, I mean, coming back as a kiddie dwarf would be terrible, but...you know what I mean? It's nice to get a second go at it."
[23:16] <Alicia> Damn, is he just incapable of taking a hint? "I remember being amazed, when you were brought back, wishing I could have had such a power myself..." she replies, turning back over the stove so he can't see the pain in her expression. "But they're dead, and no God has stepped forward to bring them back. And Mystra help me, I prayed for it... Second chances such as you got are rare and precious things, Donald."
[23:18] <Kotono> "Meh," Donald mutters something, "They shouldn't be, at least for the innocent and the good guys. Hell, look at all you've done! You'd think you'd get them back in a gift wrapped box!" Scowling now, "Yeah...I don't know. That's kinda bothered me when I think about it. Am I just lucky I knew the right set of insane risk takers when I died? Bleh. Maybe..." He glances at Alicia, "Maybe if I try praying to Lathander too he'll get the hint and
[23:19] <Kotono>  hint and give Mystra a poke?"
06[23:22] * Alicia clenches her fists on the counter to either side of the stove. "You do that, Donald, but can we not talk about this?" she asks desperately. "They are gone, and I can only hope it is to a happier place. Even if you mean well, this subject brings me no joy to discuss."
[23:23] <Kotono> "Oh." Donald goes quiet a few moments, "Sorry, just...it's kind of interesting to me for that. Since well..." He starts again, "How about I shut up and go see how your sister is?"
06[23:25] * Alicia takes a deep breath and nods. "Tell her I'll be up with the soup in a few minutes."
[23:26] <Kotono> Donald quickly scurries away. Once he's gone, Antenora just stares before, "I believe the human saying is that 'When the Gods passed out wisdom, he was too busy being stupid to get any?'"
03[23:27] * Demedais is now known as Tai{slpr}
[23:29] <Alicia> "If he was being malicious I could deal with it, but... ugh," Alicia shakes her head. "I wish I had not said anything, but that cornugon provoked me so...!" she trails off in exasparation.
[23:31] <Kotono> "We won. We defeated that cornugon, we defeated all the gelugon, we defeated a BARREGON." Antenora smiles warmly, "Try to bask in that?"
06[23:34] * Alicia manages a smile. "That's what I was doing, before we read that letter. Still... I've heard of cornugons, and had thought they were just below Pit Fiends in rank. Its odd that barregons are apparently more fearsome and yet so obscure." She idly holds up her right hand and looks at the ring she wears there. "What's the mightiest fiend defeated by any of your previous owners, I wonder?"
[23:36] <Kotono> "I was a devil and I don't know much of them," Antenora demurs. "They have a tiny bit of the blood of Asmodeus in them, even long diluted. Few can lay claim to that." The ring on Alicia's finger glitters silently in the light.
[23:38] <Alicia> "Seems our exploits still fail to meet someone's approval," Alicia mutters as she resumes stirring. "Well, despite its blood, it was still subservient to Agares, I suppose."
[23:40] <Kotono> "Not every devil that's lucky enough to be able to say Asmodeus is in his family tree rules, I suppose. Then again, there is Glasya..." Anenora trails off, thinking on that. "But...yes. If we haven't done it already, the Hells are quite unamused with us. I can't imagine a Barregon was simple to send or command."
[23:42] <Alicia> "I won't shed any tears upon hearing that Agares was sent to Avernus and killed by Zquujaj," Alicia remarks dryly, tasting the soup and nodding in satisfaction before she serves three bowls and sets them on a tray along with some bread.

[Corwin]

[20:14] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> ---
[20:19] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Home! A few days of rest feel divine. At last Alicia is free of sand - no sand in her hair, no sand in her boots, no sand drying her skin out. Further, no more devils are there to try and kill her. These few days pass in a strangely etherial, pleasant way. The simple routines feel good again after the constant clash of raw purity and horrifying, intense battle. It is late one evening when..."Hm?" Jessica is seated by the couch,
[20:20] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Hm?" Jessica is seated by the couch, reading. "Did osmeone just knock on the door, sister?"
06[20:21] * Alicia blinks, realising she must have zoned out. "Hmm... I didn't hear it," she admits, although her sister does have better ears. Getting up, she nonetheless steps out into the hallway and goes to open the front door.
[20:22] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Standing at your step is a woman with a gray cloak, hiding her face. Her voice is familiar and pleasant, "Alicia?" Latha's voice, restful. "Ah, is your sister well?"
[20:25] <Alicia> "Oh, hello, Latha," Alicia smiles. "Come on in and see for yourself," she invites, leading the deva through to the sitting room.
[20:28] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> She enters, keeping her hood up. Jessica smiles politely as she sees the guest, whom herself slightly nods. "It is good to see you again," she says to the former assassin, before, "Can we go and talk, Alicia? I come to help close out matters from our recent victory."
[20:29] <Alicia> "Oh, of course," Alicia nods, taking the hint for privacy. "We'll just be in the study, Jessica," she tells her sister, before leading Latha to the adjoining room.
[20:30] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Jessica smiles and waves, "Hmm-hmm," she says from her book, glancing up. Once inside, Latha takes off her cloak. She lets her radiance out, turning the room magnificent. "How's Antenora? That was miserable that the sphere affected her as it did."
[20:34] <Alicia> "It was quite distressing," Alicia agrees. "At least it was remedied swiftly - she seems to have recovered from it without difficulty, as best I can tell."
[20:41] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Good." Sitting in the nearest chair, Latha very carefully folds her cloak. A bag is on her belt, light but wide mouthed. "That was one of the hardest battles I've ever been in. A malebranche alone would have been close to a match for us. You fight like an avenging angel."
[20:44] <Alicia> "You're no slouch, yourself," Alicia returns the compliment, sitting on the chair to the side of Latha and tilting herself to face the angel. "For me it was when Gronastyx revealed his true form - I just felt my heart sink, thinking that this would be a battle too far. Yet we did indeed prevail against everything they threw at us, no matter how bad the odds got."
[20:47] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "That last battle could've defeated a solar. Each of the lesser ones were an ordeal worthy of redemption." Latha's voice is full of hope despite it, full of light that transcends the mood of her words. "...Alicia. Do you think the Crimson Guard can defeat the God King now?"
[20:50] <Alicia> "Now as in right at this moment?" Alicia asks, before shaking her head. "No. We defeated a powerful force of Hell, no doubt, and perhaps that Barregon may have been a rival to a Pit Fiend in power... but such beings are still a far cry from matching the Gods themselves, that Daa-vid was able to fight on even terms with."
06[20:50] * Alicia looks upwards in thought for a moment, as if seeking inspiration, "Perhaps his long confinement has weakened him, but until the day when we can do battle with Hell's leaders instead of its soldiers, I'd say we're unready."
[20:52] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Latha listens to that, before opening her bag. From it she withdraws the six parted sphere and sets it onto the ground. "Here."
[20:54] <Alicia> Well, at least it's not broadcasting a psychic assault on her senses, but Alicia still can't keep from eyeing the sphere with blatant mistrust. "Has a way been found to... neutralise, it?" she asks carefully.
[20:56] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "There has. For now, it's inactive and inert," Latha raps the surface of it with her knuckle before sitting back up. "Alicia, as a way to get stronger and strengthen your friends and those around you?  Those of the Light have something to give you, something your Goddess approves of."
[20:58] <Alicia> "So if I happened to have a heart attack and die right now, my soul wouldn't be trapped inside it?" Alicia can't help but ask, before shaking her head apologetically as she recognises the importance of Latha's latter statement. "Forgive me, I live with the daily threat of death, and I can accept it, but a danger to my soul is something that distresses me on a wholly different level."
[21:01] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Latha's own looks is understanding, as she reaches out to touch Alicia's hand. "I remember that every time I see ice." Latha's body shivers, "The worst is when Hell reaches not for your ruination, but for your enslavement. But yes, it's safe. The evil in it that remains is faint and asleep without a Baazetu of exceptional evil to focus it. However...it may be possible to purify it."
06[21:04] * Alicia smiles wanly as Latha's response hints at the trauma of her own captivity in Hell, yet she's still grateful for the understanding. "Purify it?" she asks after a moment, regarding the sphere with more curiousity. "What would that entail?"
[21:06] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "You've shown something very rare - the ability to both defeat Hell and to bear it's sin to redeem it. There is a way to purify some evil items and relics, if one is willing to bear the burden of such. Something that is long lost to your world; something that you have proven uniquely suited for."
[21:06] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> (More)
[21:08] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "There are rites for one who walks on the light to bear the burden of the evil invested into this. With that, they go and complete a symbolic quest. Should they succeed, the darkness is dispelled. I will go to your temple when we are done and begin the instruction of Mystra's servants here, should you be willing."
[21:12] <Alicia> "Anything that reduces the amount of evil in the world while increasing the good is something I can support," Alicia nods. "A symbolic quest... well, at least it makes more sense than debating an inanimate object on morality and philosophy," she cracks an amused smile before going on,
[21:12] <Alicia> "But what will purifying it do - if it's an evil soul prison, I'm not sure I can see too much use for a 'good' soul prison, after all. Especially since - as I understand it - it's keyed to us specifically, and no one else."
[21:16] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Enslavement shall become liberation," Latha promises, "Further...once it is purified, it's also safe to break apart. In this case, either is acceptable."
[21:19] <Alicia> "Well, I have to do something, since leaving it lying around risks another Baatezu picking it up and using it on us," Alicia nods, before frowning. "That said, what's to stop them making another?" she sighs as that realisation sinks in. "Well, ensuring there's one less personalised soul prison lying around will have to suffice..."
[21:22] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "What's to stop Hell from spawning another Barregon?" Latha muses, "It's a hard road to look down. Still..." She stops there, "The sphere is safe to keep as long as it's locked up somewhere protected by lead against divinations. It will take a little time for the servant of Mystra to master the rites, they are not simple."
[21:23] <Alicia> "What rituals will I need to perform, then?" Alicia asks, making a note to buy a larger lead box than the one she used to house the ring of eternal ingratitude.
[21:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "When it is time, a two day purification ritual of meditation, preparation and purification before assuming the quest and the evil of the sphere." Latha says. "The servant of Mystra will be taught all of this."
[21:28] <Alicia> "So you'll teach Shankar and I'll just follow his lead, then?" Alicia clarifies, wondering why the need for the middle man, before she rationalises that it probably requires divine spellcasting that only a priest could perform.
[21:30] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Yes. When he invokes the final prayer, you will be given a relevation of your quest and what the burden you will carry is." Latha says. "I would suspect it would have something to do with souls or redemption in this case."
[21:33] <Alicia> "Sounds thematically appropriate," Alicia nods. "So, this sort of thing is possible with other items, too?" she asks, considering.
[21:35] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Yes." Latha continues, "Not all items are possible, but I'll teach Shankar the relevant spell to determine if an item is or isn't. There's another," Reaching into her bag again, this time Latha takes out dragonscales. "From Gronastyx. These shouldn't be too hard to purify, but the same rituals should work."
[21:36] <Alicia> "Mmm," Alicia nods, frowning. "I do wonder sometimes about Seira's fascination with wearing the skins of dragons, considering she appears to be descended from one."
[21:38] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Curious, isn't it?" Latha's amusement shows. "We have something else as well. Here." REaching at hird time in, "We've gathered all of our information on Duke Agares, as well as what we've scraped up from the ruins."
[21:40] <Alicia> "Oh?" Alicia leans closer in interest. "Much as I hope his failure will result in banishment to Avernus followed by a swift death at the hands of Zquujaj or some random invading Tanar'ri, I can't help but think he'll find a way to trouble me, again."
[21:44] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Agreed." Reaching out, "Here. There's all the hard information, I'll give you the summary. Duke Agares is one of the 9 Dukes of Stygia. He rules over entropy and enslavement to loss, the inevitable decay and despair that nothing can be preserved, that all will be lost." (More)
[21:49] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "He commands 9 legions of bearded devils and 9 brigades of bone devils. He commands 9 Pit Fiends, 99 Cornugons and 9,999 Gelugons. As Stygia is a major throughway of the River Styx, he commands powers from it. His body is as black as the oily waters from it." (More)
[21:57] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "His body is said to be invincible to force - nothing can destroy the waters of the Styx. Do you remember Dest? His domain of lost and slaughtered children is a subset of the hopeless entropy Agares commands. However..." A stop here.
[21:58] <Alicia> "He took my best attacks like they were nothing," Alicia nods distantly, before picking up on Latha's hesitation, "However?"
[22:01] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "An Eladrin that did battle with him once recorded an interesting claim. As he lay defeated and Agares loomed over him for a final blow, he reached into his pack for anything, something to throw at him. He threw a vial of water from his home - water that was pure and free as the chaos and goodness that spawned it - and it made him pause long enough to let him escape."
[22:04] <Alicia> "A pity we don't have any such water convenient, here," Alicia observes. "But still, I can keep that in mind - perhaps when the time comes to face Agares again, we might have the means to collect water from Arborea. Unless... do you think merely blessed water would suffice?"
[22:05] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I doubt it," Latha says, passing the papers over. "Unless Mystra herself blessed it for you. Beyond how Holy Water may damage a devil to begin with."
[22:07] <Alicia> "Mystra isn't especially chaotic," Alicia demurs as she accepts the papers and sets them on her desk for later perusal. "Hmm... back to something you said earlier, Latha. You asked if I thought we could defeat the God-King, but kept your own counsel on the matter - so I'll ask, since you likely have a better perspective on the matter than I could. Do you think we can defeat him?"
[22:09] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "It's why I agreed with my superior on this matter, and why we sent the request to Mystra," Latha continues on. "I do, but your strength would need to continue to blossom. With a spirit strengthened further and further by those tasks, the steel to stop the God King may be born."
[22:12] <Alicia> "Our thoughts are alike," Alicia inclines her head. "Speaking of your superiors, though - since I left in such a hurry I had to leave the task with Seira and Demedais - do you know if they were able to get any help from your superior regarding Eladi's punishment?"
[22:15] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Latha just shakes her head. "His fate is beyond any of our hands." Latha's face does fall at this. "I'm sorry."
[22:18] <Alicia> "Damn..." Alicia grimaces. "If he hadn't helped us, I don't think we could have defeated that ice devil - none of us had weapons able to inflict permanent harm on it. I owe him... and I promised. I'll have to find another way."
[22:26] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I understand," Latha bows her head. "Your nobility speaks well of you."
[22:29] <Alicia> "But nobility doesn't help Eladi..." the paladin sighs. "Well.. I'll think of something. Nothing I can do, at the moment, it seems."
[22:34] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "If anything will free him, it will be that nobility," Latha says, standing. "Alicia."
[22:36] <Alicia> "Mmm? Yes?" Alicia replies, mentally chastising herself for belabouring Eladi's fate when it's likely a walk in the park compared to what Latha's endured.
[22:39] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Her arms wrap around Alicia, a brief embrace pressed. "Be well. I'm honored to have met you. Pass my greetings to Seira and Demedais as well."
06[22:41] * Alicia returns the hug, a bit awkwardly as her hands have to navigate around Latha's wings, but nonetheless sincere in the gesture. "The honour was mine - I hope we meet again, some day," she whispers before parting.
[22:45] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Until then," Latha turns, heading out, "I have to go find Skandar now."
[22:46] <Alicia> *Shankar?
[22:47] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC: Yes.

[Corwin]

[20:07] <Kotono> -----Ninja Ko hides here--
[20:14] <Kotono> Walking home from her daily duties in the Crimson Guard gives Alicia time to think. The mid afternoon is busy and noisy, her pace taking her home. Oh, she has to sidestep a few carts full of goods, bypass a group listening to a fiery preacher of Gond proclaiming how inspiration lies in everyone's grasp so that creation can live and then finally arrive home.  Yet as she does, something odd happens. It's a soft THUMP onto her head, like a w
[20:14] <Kotono> It's a soft THUMP onto her head, like a weight onto it.
06[20:16] * Alicia instinctively reaches up to rub her head at the unexpected impact just as she enters her home. The door was closed so it's not like someone could have propped something up there as some sort of juvenile prank... and that'd surely be beneath both Jessica and Antenora, anyway, right?
[20:18] <Kotono> As Alicia rubs up, she rubs up against something soft and warm. "Hey!" A voice protests in high pitched tones. "Careful!"
[20:19] <Alicia> That could only be one of two things, Alicia realises with a repressed sigh. "You're not a pixie, are you?"
[20:21] <Kotono> "Nope! I've dated one before, they're okay." The content voice looks down, a perfectly  made, tiny elven face eyeing Alicia upside down. "I'm your new familiar."
06[20:22] * Alicia blinks. Then again as she processes the words yet fails to have them actually make sense. "My new what?" she asks incredulously.
[20:23] <Kotono> "Your new familiar," The Eladrin cheerfully notes, "Mmm, you kinda look and smell like a paladin. Not what I was expecting...You must've scored some points with someone important."
[20:27] <Alicia> "Aren't familiars things like... cats?" Alicia replies in faint non-comprehension, before she gently wraps her hand around the eladrin and brings it down to deposit on her other palm so they can have a more face to face (non-inverted) conversation. "And what do you mean 'not what I was expecting'?"
[20:30] <Kotono> It's a woman - or a girl, perhaps. It has bright purple hair and a charming smile. "Oh, Her Ladyness talked about you. How you were a good servant of hers and all that, but...I guess I expected someone more robed or covered in runes instead of armor for a favored servant of Mystra."
[20:33] <Alicia> "Good? Favoured?" Alicia repeats, unable to keep from feeling a faint upwelling of pride. "So you're a servant of Mystra, yourself?" she asks, walking towards the sitting room. 'Just to check in case this isn't a trick - Hell Striker, can you tell if she is what she says she is?' she asks her sword.
[20:35] <Kotono> "Mmm-hmm. Mystra prefers angels, but she has some eladrin and others as well." Her wings flutter as she's held, "Could you let me go, though?"
06[20:37] * Alicia obligingly does so. "Okay, but... still, a celestial as a familiar?" she looks thoughtful for a moment, "Well, then again, I've heard stories about wizards with imps and quasits, but I always thought there were more like bound minions than a familiar."
[20:40] <Kotono> "Pfah," Fluttering to sit atop Alicia's head, "I could whip an imp's butt anyway." Settling in on that, "It's not common. You have to have scored points with someone. And considering I wouldn't normally be sent a paladin, you must've done something really impressive." At that, "Mystra mentioned you have a few people living with you, by the way?"
[20:42] <Alicia> "Well, I do use arcane magic, so I could be thought of as a sorceress just as much as a paladin... You know, do you absolutely have to sit on my head?" she asks in creeping irritation. "What's wrong with having a face to face conversation?"
[20:44] <Kotono> "You have a very nice head. It's the perfect shape for a perch and it's so warm. It smells nice, too." The Courre chuckles, kicing her feet near the side of Alicia's noggin.
[20:48] <Alicia> "Yes, I'm very proud of it," Alicia deadpans, before, "You talked to Mystra? In person?" she asks, her attitude sudenly becoming far more friendly.
[20:50] <Kotono> "Mmm-hmm. She's very glowy and impressive. She is the Goddess of Magic, you know. She spoke well of you and how the things here were important."
06[20:51] * Alicia flushes with pride, though when she realises how foolish she must look preening, she finds herself glad the eladrin can't see her face. "So, do you have a name, then?"
[20:52] <Kotono> "Marielle, though call me Marie." It prounounces. "By the way, which one was the girl practicing in the back yard? The one with the spear?"
[20:53] <Alicia> "That's Antenora," Alicia replies. "My sister, Jessica, also lives here. I presume you know about them, Marie?" she asks.
[20:55] <Kotono> "I heard. It's rather strange company for a paladin to keep. Then again, are they gloomy? Perhaps I can lighten them up a bit as well?" Marielle goes on, scratching at her chin. "Mmmmm."
[20:56] <Alicia> "You're not going to throw over-ripe fruit at them, are you?" Alicia asks worriedly. "Antenora had a bad experience with the last coure she ran into..."
[21:05] <Kotono> "No. Why would I do that?" She sniffs in the air, "Really now, that sounds boring."
[21:09] <Alicia> "Glad to hear you have more refined tastes," Alicia nods in approval. And if that dislodges her, that's her problem. "So... how does this work? Is there some ritual we have to do for you to be bonded as my familiar?" Some dim memory pings in the back of Alicia's mind about something costing one hundred gold.
[21:12] <Kotono> The little courre seems surprisingly adept at staying on Alicia's head. "Yes, it's not too hard, though. We can do it as soon as you're ready."
[21:14] <Alicia> "Mmm..." Alicia makes a thoughtful sound. "Firstly - why did Mystra choose you, Marie?" she asks curiously.
[21:26] <Kotono> "She said I was right for you." Thoughtfully fluttering off Alicia's head and coming to face her, "She mentioned something about you having a lot of trials, too."
06[21:27] * Alicia nods. "I don't know what role you had in Dweomerheart, but I can guarantee that you'll face far more danger if you travel with me," she warns. "Are you prepared for that?"
[21:28] <Kotono> "I can take care of myself," Marie says firmly, "Do you think Mystra would've sent me if I wasn't?"
[21:30] <Alicia> "I just wanted to make sure you knew what you were getting into - this isn't a game or a vacation," the paladin warns seriously. "If you're still willing, though, I won't turn down help if it was sent by my Goddess."
[21:31] <Kotono> "I could use a weapon, but I can take care of myself," she gestures, "Maaaaagic missiles! Fire!" Whimsically laughing, she gestures.
[21:32] <Alicia> "Uh... right," Alicia nods slowly. "So what does this ritual entail?"
[21:36] <Kotono> A day passes in seclusion and rituals. So when the day after dawns and it's finally done, Alicia is rather hungry. Going for 24 hours straight is draining, no matter how you do it. It's sometime in the morning, which means there should be breakfast to be gotten.
[21:39] <Alicia> "You're hungry, I can tell!" Marie carols, fluttering around through the air. "Wow, this is actually really great - I feel like I could take on a dozen imps, right now!" she continues in this enthusiastic vein as Alicia sluggishly heads towards the kitchen, rapidly zipping from side to side around the paladin. "If you want, I can cook - I've never done it before, but since I'm your familiar I think I should help out with stuff like that!
[21:40] <Alicia> "
[21:41] <Alicia> "Sure, knock yourself out," Alicia nods, knuckling back a yawn as she goes to lean on a counter in the kitchen and keep an eye on the energetic celestial in case she screws up cooking.
[21:42] <Kotono> Jessica and Antenora are out here. The former is eating toast and jam while chatting, whilst Antenora politely listens.  Jessica happens to react faster, turning. "...oh! Is that...a fairy?" she asks, staring at it. "Alicia, where did you get it?"
[21:42] <Kotono> Antenora's reaction is slightly delayed, both in turning and in expression. "...Alicia, why is that here?" she asks carefully.
[21:43] <Alicia> "Mystra's orders, she's my new familiar," Alicia replies tiredly as she leans back against the countertop. "Jessica, Antenora - meet Marielle."
[21:45] <Kotono> "It's adorable!" Jessica gushes and blushes, standing up. "It's so...so...small!"
[21:45] <Kotono> Antenora doesn't say a word. She stands up and turns around as Jessica advances, heading to the back exit of the house.
[21:45] <Alicia> "You can call me Marie, hi!" Marie replies, bobbing through the air in front of the duo. "I got sent because Alicia - actually, should I call her Mistress, now? Well, whatever, she needs help. But we're not really supposed to get too involved because of that whole gnome thing - except you, but you're a special case," she briefly nods towards Antenora,
[21:45] <Alicia> "But if I became a familiar it's kinda like cheating so it works. They said something about me learning from here and this being maybe a test, but the important part is that I'm here to help!"
[21:46] <Kotono> Twitch. Antenora twitches at the word Mistress, but keeps her pace going out.
[21:47] <Kotono> "Ah. Nice to meet you," Jessica smiles to the little creature. "How pleasant. That means you're going to be staying here now?"
[21:50] <Alicia> "Yeah," Marie nods, glancing at Antenora's departure. "Wow, she must have had a *really* bad experience with those other coure... Do you think she hates me? That wouldn't be fair, since that'd be as bad as me judging her just because she's an erinyes, but she's different from the others, right?"
[21:50] <Alicia> "Just give her time to adjust," Alicia suggests, deciding not to press Antenora at the moment. "Once she see's that you're not a troublemaker or a nuisance, she'll come around."
[21:51] <Kotono> "..mmm." Jessica just eyes the creature and smiles the entire time. "Alicia, you look terrible. Did you not sleep well?"
[21:52] <Alicia> "Had to do a long ritual to link ourselves as master and familiar," Alicia nods, eyeing Marie. "I think she got more out of it than me."
[21:53] <Alicia> "Nonsense! Now that our emotional states are linked, I bet you'll find yourself with a whole new outlook!" Marie declares cheerily as she starts exploring the cupboards.
[21:53] <Alicia> "That's what I'm afraid of..." the paladin mutters.
[22:06] <Kotono> "As long as you don't act like a teenager who's had too many sweets, it shouldn't be so bad," Jessica smiles sweetly at Alicia. "...say.Did you ever act like that as a teenager?"
[22:09] <Alicia> "I, ah... overindulged once or twice," Alicia admits embarrassedly. "Mostly I was a good girl, though," she assures everyone present.
[22:09] <Alicia> Fortunately Marie doesn't seem to be paying too much attention. "This all looks pretty complicated, how about I just make you a sandwich?" she suggests, sounding a bit overwhelmed as she studies the numerous cupboards she's opened.
[22:10] <Kotono> "It's hard to imagine. You're always so focused, sister," Jessica goes back to sitting, watching the eladrin get to work.
[22:13] <Alicia> "It was a long time ago. Everyone was young, once," Alicia demurs, deciding she might as well sit down as well. "A sandwich is fine, Marie. I'll just have a little to eat then take a nap, I think."
[22:13] <Kotono> "Including Marie and Antenora?" Jessica pauses on that point. "That's a good question, thinking on it."
[22:15] <Alicia> "Well, I guess you could say I'm eternally young?" Marie pipes in as she manhandles a knife as big as she is from the cutlery drawer. "At least until I get promoted or something. I've been in this form for about twenty years."
[22:17] <Alicia> "Do you remember your life as a mortal?" Alicia asks curiously, looking up.
[22:18] <Kotono> Jessica listens and watches now, "Do go on. I'd like to hear that. You're fun to listen to and so energetic."
[22:19] <Alicia> "Nope!" Marie sounds unbothered as she tries to cut the bread. It's a mighty struggle with such poor leverage, but she perseveres. "I don't really mind, though. I mean, I'm me, right? What good would it do me to remember being someone else? I guess I must have been a good person for Mystra to make me into one of her servants, but it doesn't really have anything to do with my life now, does it?"
[22:21] <Alicia> "I suppose that's one way to look at it..." Alicia nods slowly, giving her sister a speculative look and wondering what she thinks.
[22:22] <Kotono> "Careful," she gets up, going to help with the knifing in progress. "I'll show you how to use one of these. Anyawy, that's fine. Who needs old memories?" she smiles to Marie, patting her head.
[22:25] <Alicia> Marie seems grateful for the help. "Yeah, you get it!" she beams up at Jessica. "Look to the future, not the past!"
[22:30] <Kotono> "Right! I used to be, well, no good. Now? So what if I lost my memories in the Styx? I have a good life." As the sandwich is made, "My Sister's a good person like that - although, I wonder if shes'a bout to be a sleeping person with the way she looks."
[22:32] <Alicia> "I want something to eat, first," Alicia assures them distantly, her mind occupied by thinking about Jessica's words. Well, it's not like she's going to be able to get her memories back any time soon, but what to do when the opportunity does arise?
[22:33] <Alicia> "Well, here you go!" Marie smiles brightly as she somehow manages to bear aloft the plate with the sandwhich on it and fly it over in front of Alicia. "Enjoy!" Then, as Alicia starts to eat, "So, do you think I should go and talk to Antenora? Maybe she's just hurt because she's no longer the only outsider in the house and it makes her less special?"
06[22:34] * Alicia coughs as she nearly chokes on a bite of her sandwich. "Ah, no, I don't think it's that," she manages, thumping her chest to help it go down. "She just... has trouble with Chaos, which you represent. She'll come around once she sees that you're not irresponsible."
[22:35] <Kotono> "Ahem." Jessica lightly clears her throat.  "Oh yes, I remember her complaining about unicorns before. That was awhile back, but..."
[22:36] <Alicia> "Mmmm..." Marie pouts. "I'm taking orders from a paladin, aren't I? It doesn't get much more lawful than that, surely?"
[22:36] <Kotono> "Thought..." Jessica's eyes sparkle, "Perhaps the two of you will have some obscure grudged based outsider jealousy? Perhaps even a catfight?" Chuckling at it, "'twould be more appealing if either of you were male. We do seem to only have women in the house, thinking on it."
[22:39] <Alicia> "That's a shame," Marie nods. "Alicia, you should try to bring some handsome male fiend over to the side of goodness with the power of your love!" she then declares emphatically, prompting another choking fit from the bug-eyed paladin.
[22:39] <Alicia> "I'm going to bed," she declares flatly after recovering, standing up and quickly fleeing the scene.
[22:40] <Kotono> "Alicia," Jessica calls as she flees. "Yu know, it's not a bad idea! I'm sure Antenora would love you to death if you were a man, or she was!"
[22:40] <Alicia> "Hmmm. She really is uptight, isn't she? I need to work on that..." the eladrin mutters thoughtfully as Alicia's footsteps seem to quicken in pace after Jessica's parting comment.
[22:41] <Kotono> "Or perhaps if you both were?" Jessica calls one last thing, before breaking into giggles. "Somewhat. I must confess that I don't normally act like that either, but you're contagious. She's simply dedicated."
[22:43] <Alicia> Marie nods approvingly. "You've got a good head on your shoulders, Jessica," she comments warmly. "Lets hope I can help the other two lighten up as well."
[22:44] <Kotono> "Yes, but don't take it too far," Jessica answers after a few moments. "Part of the reason I don't mind having lost my memories so much is...because from all the stories and indications, I lead a horrible life before that. Alicia's life hasn't been filled entirely with sunshine, either."
[22:48] <Alicia> "That's what I want to fix!" Marie insists. "I mean, I heard a lot of stuff about Alicia before I got sent here, I know what I'm getting into - I want to make her happy, but I need to push her buttons a bit to help her come out of her shell," she reasons.
[22:48] <Alicia> "I'm not like those nonsensical Star Court floozies that'll do anything for a laugh, so you don't need to worry about me going too far. Since I'm her familiar I'll know if she gets really upset," she briefly taps her purple-tressed head, "Right now she's really embarrassed, but she's kind of a little bit amused, too."

[Corwin]

[21:05] <Kotono> <Alicia> "That's what I want to fix!" Marie insists. "I mean, I heard a lot of stuff about Alicia before I got sent here, I know what I'm getting into - I want to make her happy, but I need to push her buttons a bit to help her come out of her shell," she reasons.
[21:05] <Kotono> <Alicia> "I'm not like those nonsensical Star Court floozies that'll do anything for a laugh, so you don't need to worry about me going too far. Since I'm her familiar I'll know if she gets really upset," she briefly taps her purple-tressed head, "Right now she's really embarrassed, but she's kind of a little bit amused, too."
[21:06] <Kotono> "Oh good. I'd worried that she'd worried away her sense of humor," Jessica laughs lightly to this, "But...she could use the help that you bring. From what little I know, devils are extremely dangerous...and she fights them often."
[21:10] <Alicia> "Oh, yeah," Marie nods emphatically. "Totally dangerous! And you have to take that seriously - I don't want her getting distracted by a funny joke and then all of a sudden getting stabbed, but if she can't relax in her own home then where can she relax?"
[21:14] <Kotono> "Good question." Leaning back on the counter and going fo ra dishrag to clean her hands, "Alicia's like that sometimes. So's Antenora. You get used to it, but neither of them are very much for levity."
[21:15] <Alicia> "You think I should try and talk to Antenora, or would she probably pull my wings off?" Marie wonders, tapping her chin as she glances out the door the erinyes departed by. "She looked really steamed when she saw me."
[21:19] <Kotono> "Good question," Jessica thinks, "She's not the sort to say if she's angry or thro wa fit...well, she's not any more, apparently, but that's a long story...but she didn't look happy. I don't think she'd pull your wings off, though. Maybe use you as archery practice, but nothing too excessive."
[21:22] <Alicia> "Mmm... I think I'll give her a while to cool down," the coure decides after a moment, taking Jessica's words at face value. "Well, I suppose I should tidy up these dishes - show that I'm not a freeloader, right?" she muses, going to grab the plate with Alicia's half-eaten sandwich on it.
[21:24] <Kotono> "I should as well." Jessica muses, "I don't really bring in any money...not that Alicia would ever kick either of us out, she's too kind. But...shall we?"
[21:26] <Alicia> The tiny fairy nods as she and Jessica clean up the kitchen, passing the time in amiable conversation...

[Corwin]

[21:57] <Kotono> --------
[22:00] <Kotono> Demedais rushes ahead! THe inn is where he remembers it. It has a certain appeal to it - the cold feels lesser close to it, a warmth beckoning from it. The door is ajar and open, as if inviting.
06[22:02] * Demedais steps in, looking around for any of the familiar faces from past visits.
[22:05] <Kotono> Inside, bright and vibrant people are around. A friendliness permeats the air. A large man lingering in the inn notes Demedais immediately, coming over to him. "You're back soon," he says breathlessly, "What's the matter?"
06[22:07] * Demedais nods once to the man. "We were stopping in town on our way to Kelara, Seira and Alicia decided to get involved trying to stop a mob, I decided to see if someone who actually knows the politics and people around here could assist us."
[22:08] <Kotono> "I do a little. The name I'm using here is Justin, it'll do," he offers a hand to Demedais. "I was told you might peek in here. What's the mob angry about?"
06[22:10] * Demedais shakes the hand. "Apparently they feel they've been cheated out on wages. Wouldn't surprise me, but attempting to break the house down with rocks didn't look like the best method. If I thought Seira and Alicia needed help defending themselves, I'd have just stayed with them, but... as is, yeah. Rather someone who knows the area helped out."
[22:12] <Kotono> "Damn." he shakes his big head, "Things have been a little unsteady here from all reports. Odds are that if it gets violent the city police are going to get involved, and that'll end nastily to the rioters, no matter if they're right or wrong."
[22:13] <Demedais> "Yeah, that's what Alicia said." Demedais shakes his head as well. "You want to try and go quell the mob, then?"
[22:13] <Kotono> "Take me. At worst...we can prevent any fatalities if we're too late," Justin starts to move, "It's a pleasure to meet you face to face, by the way. I've heard some of the stories."
06[22:15] * Demedais blinks. "Ah, a pleasure as well. I'm afraid that with that name, I mistook you for someone else."
[22:22] <Kotono> "A young trumpet archon?" As you hustle down the street, "I heard some of the stories about your swordsmanship from him."
[22:23] <Demedais> "Ah, yes." Demedais nods, as they keep moving. "He seemed to think highly of my style. Alicia possesses a far more powerful brand of fighting, however."
[22:27] <Kotono> "Humble. I approve," The human(?) is amused as you race on! As you soon reach the building again, you find it surrounded by a waiting mob. No sign of any guards immediately here, but you can see several spearmen coming down the other side of the street, about 200 feet away.
[22:28] <Demedais> "More like sanely commenting." Demedais snorts. "I'm more comfortable on defense, thanks."
[22:32] <Demedais> "Also, mrf, there come the guards. If they're as vicious as you say, we want them dismissed quickly, no?"

[Corwin]

[19:59] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> ---
[20:00] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Alicia is lead to private chambers - a grand room of meditation, the walls covered with a long prayer to the Mother of Magic. Taldeer sits on the floor, facing that. "Is this a visit, or are you returning to Kelara for a longer time?"
[20:02] <Alicia> "Just a visit, really," Alicia admits as she sits next to the elf. "I have too many responsibilities in Balmuria to linger long, although I expect I'll be here at least for a few days so I can catch up with people and hopefully help Kagan with his problem."
[20:04] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Mmmm." She nods to that, "Your family does well. Last year's harvest and stock was superb; their coffers are richened. Your brother lives with his wife and stays quiet. Your mother and father are the same, though their stock is rising. After nearly being too close to an assassination, Arthur donated a large sum to the country's defense. It's why you didn't end up being taken to a dungeon cell for not having a city pass."
[20:05] <Alicia> "They'd really do that?" Alicia looks fairly alarmed at the thought of being imprisoned over something so bureaucratic.
[20:07] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> With a thin frown, "They would. Oh, if your story and source checked out they'd issue a city pass and free you in due time, but..." She shakes her head firmly. "This rebellion is serious and well coordinated. It's not reached this far yet, but there's some worry Kelara's about to come apart at the seams. Money's being borrowed from nobles, wealthy merchants and the neighboring Desert Fiefdoms as troops are raised and mercenaries
[20:08] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> raised and mercenaries are purchased."
03[20:09] * Taishyr (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) has joined #evildunes
02[20:09] * Demedais (Taishyr@58.194.238.102) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
03[20:10] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[20:10] <Alicia> "Mmm... I've never particular cared for the ruling classes, here, but to see my home turned over to brigands..." Alicia frowns and shakes her head. "I may see about extending my stay in order to look into this rebellion further." Sighing, she puts that aside for the moment, "At least my family is doing well," she smiles lopsidedly, "Mother will be thrilled if they can buy their way into the nobility."
[20:15] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Don't you have duties in Balmuria?" Taldeer questions, but lets it rest a moment. "Beatrice will be, yes. It's rather likely if this works out well. Baroness Alicia...hmmm." She lingers over that, "What of your sister, Beth? She's not been seen around Kelara in some time, or even mentioned."
[20:17] <Alicia> "I do, but I can make the time if it's important," Alicia acknowledges. "As for Beth, there lies a long and sordid tale..." she cocks her head, "Are you sure you have the time?"
[20:18] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I do. I'd rather like to hear what happened to her." Taldeer invites. "I...I hate to ask, but did her deeds finally catch up to her, Alicia?"
[20:21] <Alicia> "In a big way," Alicia nods, sighing. "When I was travelling East, intending to visit your homeland, I heard tales that the Archbaron of the United Baronies had barely survived an assassination attempt, with the one responsible identified as Beth Reynes."
[20:21] <Alicia> "By sheer luck, I happened across the Archbaron himself while heading to Balmuria to investigate. I... said some rather rash things, and wound up having to swear myself into his service in exchange for leniency for Beth. Fortunately he's turned out to be a just and fair ruler, and I still advance Mystra's will in his service. Unfortunately, Beth was hardly grateful for my efforts..."
[20:22] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I see." A shake of he rhead, "...was? ...I'm sorry." Taldeer reaches over to clasp Alicia's shoulder.
[20:24] <Alicia> "Things were very acrimonious between us, until eventually I couldn't stand it any more and withdrew my plea for mercy on her behalf. Then, before her execution... she sold her soul to a devil. In exchange for killing me," she barks out a sharp laugh at the concept.
[20:24] <Alicia> "After I fought off the first assassin, I went straight to her, and found out she'd only agreed to go with the devil's bargain after Shar herself had offered to free her and make her into a favoured servant. She just didn't care about anything, anymore."
[20:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Shar..." Taldeer shivers all over at that name, "The Black Bitch is never content at leaving us be, is she?"
[20:31] <Alicia> "No... anyway, I somehow finally got it into her head how badly she'd screwed up, and she agreed to look for a way out with me. Mystra guided us to a being called Judgement who would allow her to atone and void the contract she'd made, but only if she were to rescue to innocent souls from the Halls of the Vanquished, on the Fifth Layer of Baator."
[20:31] <Alicia> "I went with her, and we succeeded, but earned some powerful enemies in the process. Worse than that, Beth herself was exposed to the waters of the River Styx, losing all of her memories..."
[20:31] <Alicia> *two innocent souls
[20:34] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "She's still alive, then?" Taldeer asks, but otherwise listens, attention rapt.
06[20:36] * Alicia nods. "She's not Beth, not anymore. But she's happy, which I suppose is a lot better than it could have turned out," she explains, feeling a bit better for having gotten all that out. It's practice for when she talks to her parents, anyway...
[20:37] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "She's living with you in Balmuria now?" Taldeer asks, thoughtfully.
[20:38] <Alicia> "Yes. I have a friend looking after her while I'm here," the paladin replies. "That's a whole other story..."
[20:39] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Alicia..." Taldeer looks at her, "And you're thinking of staying here for a time?"
[20:42] <Alicia> "Not for too long," Alicia clarifies. "But I don't feel like I can altogether ignore what's happening in Kelara, either. If I can do something about these brigands but don't, then I'd be as bad as I was before..." she trails off, hesitating until she just blurts it out, "Before Hans and Felix were killed."
[20:44] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Mmmm." Taldeer listens to that before starting to smile. "It's good to hear you say that. But..are you planning to just execute them all?"
06[20:45] * Alicia snorts. "No. I'd like to try and find out more about them - whether they have any legitimate grievances or if they really are just nothing more than bandits. I don't want to act without knowing the full story."
[20:46] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Alright. I have some eyes working in them already. I can let you know about that once you finish with the business with Kagan?"
[20:50] <Alicia> "Thank you," Alicia smiles gratefully. "When I heard about this from Arnaud I couldn't really get involved being so far away in Balmuria, but now that I am here..." she trails off. "Of course, if the army would actually act themselves, I wouldn't need to."
[20:51] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> With a snort, "Oh, good to know Arnaud's keeping busy," she murmurs, but then, "They're preparing, but if they don't crush it right away...no one can pretend it's not a civil war. Politics." With a lithe shrug as she stands, "It's good to see you again."
[20:52] <Alicia> "Likewise," Alicia smiles, rising to her feet. "I'll be sure to stop by again, tomorrow," she promises, going to rejoin Seira and Demedais.
[20:53] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - #dunes.
[22:22] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> ---
[22:24] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Meryet opens the door, looking to Demedais. "The same wound..." she breathes out, "Do you want bandages at least?"
[22:25] <Demedais> "That'd... be nice. Make sure I don't bleed over your floor..." A slight grin. "Alicia and Seira are pursuing."
[22:27] <Demedais> "You two are alright?"
[22:28] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Kagan comes out w ith bandages, a field of etherial force in front of him. "It didn't reach us, thanks to your protection," he says, starting to bandage. "This'll hurt a bit, but it'll keep the bleeding in check."
[22:29] <Demedais> "That's fine. Just irritated I didn't get a blow in on it, but the last one we encountered was visible, so I anticipated this one would be as well, at least at first." Demedais growls.
[22:30] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> There is pain as the wounds are tied, the injuries screaming at Demedais in pure tones of agony. "They're a little too smart for my likings, then. Or this one is."
[22:31] <Demedais> "Probably just this one." Demedais grins slightly again before wincing.
[22:41] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The wounds are bandaged in due time, the pain under control. "I hope your friends get it. Are they careful?"
[22:44] <Demedais> "...Careful?" Demedais asks, standing upright again.
[22:48] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Careful. It's a sneaky assassin," Kagan says, looking about the hall. "Bah, afraid in my own home!"
[22:50] <Demedais> "If you mean in regards to general safety? No. Which is perhaps why they're best off pursuing it. Devils don't expect opponents to go berserker instantly." Demedais tries to maintain his grin.
[22:52] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "What about demons doing that?" Kagan murmurs, "Don't they fight in some sort of war?"
[22:54] <Demedais> "There's a reason I handle the demons fairly well." Demedais grins. "But they consider most humans frail, fleshy targets."
[22:55] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Most are." Kagan murmurs as he looks about a few times. "You're not. You took two deep wounds from that sword and you're still kicking."
[22:57] <Demedais> "I got lucky his first set of attacks bounced off my armor." Demedais shakes his head. "Which I won't be taking off until those two tell me the dogai is dead, idly."
[22:57] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> Meryet comes over with a glass of some sort of spirit, smelling strong. "Drink this, it'll dull the pain."
06[22:59] * Demedais drinks a bit of it, looking down into it afterward. "What is it?"
[22:59] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> It makes Demedais feel...nice. His throat burns, but his wounds feel distant. "It's a mix of a few natural compounds and a magical agent. It'll dull the pain."
06[23:00] * Demedais inhales for a moment, before drinking the rest. "Thank you. It'll help me focus if that damn thing returns."
03[23:01] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@70.112.23.198) has joined #evildunes
[23:01] <Demedais> roll 1d20+16
06[23:01] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+16 and gets 30."12 [1d20=14]
06[23:02] * Demedais inhales. "And now is when I am glad I don't have any prohibitions against alcohol, I take it."
[23:05] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Heh," Smiling at that, "Glad you enjoy it." Meryet smiles, "Just stand guard and hope that's the last we see of the dogai."
[23:07] <Demedais> "It is potent, and it has been a while since I've actually had a drink, aside from the warmed wine. ...3 or so months?" Demedais muses.
[23:08] <Demedais> "And over a year since I've had alcohol." Demedais adds after a thought.
06[23:11] * Demedais pauses for an even longer length of time. "And... about a year since I've eaten anything more than a bite? Huh."
[23:12] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Curious. An ascetic lifestyle?" Meryet inquires.
06[23:13] * Demedais holds up his right hand, showing the pale band on the fourth finger. "A gift from my temple. Made it so my need to eat, drink or sleep was greatly diminished. I don't mind, but I tend to, ah, forget nowadays."
[23:16] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "Oh, I think I know what that is," Kagan peers at the ring. "Don't you miss it?
[23:16] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "
[23:19] <Demedais> "...On occasion?" Demedais shrugs. "Though... I went on a pilgrimage in Malmuth for five years, cleaning up old temples and getting rid of some goblins in a few of them. Found the ring in one of them, it helped me out. The only dishes I make well are fish, everything else... edible, but not good. So I kinda got used to not eating or drinking much, saving money."
[23:23] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> "I suppose. Still...it keeps you in fighting shape?" Meryel says with a teasing smile. "It must make all the ladies at the temple swoon."
[23:25] <Demedais> "Ah." Demedais rubs the back of his head, face flushed a bit. "It seems one in particular likes it a lot, yes."
[23:25] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - Listen check, Deme.
[23:26] <Demedais> roll 1d20+13 oh, hell
06[23:26] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+13 oh, hell and gets 31."12 [1d20=18]
06[23:32] * Demedais seems to pause for just a moment, before swaying slightly toward the couple in the doorway, standing to block the way in accidentally as he braces against the wall with his sword just a bit before he gently shakes his head. OOC: Holding until whatever I hear approaches to within 5 ft.
[23:33] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> The footstep comes closer, and a faint shinck of drawn metal! OOC - Deme?
06[23:34] * Demedais grins slightly. "Hah!" With that, he pivots again, and sends two sweeping slashes at the source of the sound, followed by an upward slash and a finishing downward sweep!
[23:35] <Demedais> roll 1d20+20 (+6 Smite, +1 Haste, -5 CE)
06[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+20 (+6 Smite, +1 Haste, -5 CE) and gets 35."12 [1d20=15]
[23:36] <Demedais> roll 1d20+22 (+6 Smite, +2 Helm +1 Haste, -5 CE)
06[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+22 (+6 Smite, +2 Helm +1 Haste, -5 CE) and gets 37."12 [1d20=15]
[23:36] <Demedais> roll 1d20+11 (+2 Helm +1 Haste, -5 CE)
06[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+11 (+2 Helm +1 Haste, -5 CE) and gets 25."12 [1d20=14]
[23:36] <Demedais> roll 1d20+6 (+2 Helm +1 Haste, -5 CE)
06[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d20+6 (+2 Helm +1 Haste, -5 CE) and gets 25."12 [1d20=19]
[23:36] <Infinite_Ko_Loop> OOC - First two hit. Roll a d100 for both.
[23:37] <Demedais> roll 1d100 first
[23:37] <Demedais> roll 1d100 first
06[23:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 first and gets 61."12 [1d100=61]
06[23:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 1d100 first and gets 78."12 [1d100=78]
[23:37] <Demedais> roll 4d6+18+16+2
06[23:37] * Hatbot --> "Demedais rolls 4d6+18+16+2 and gets 48."12 [4d6=3, 6, 2, 1]

[Corwin]

[21:10] <Anastasia> ---
[21:13] <Anastasia> After the Kelaran affair settles out, Seira and company return to Balmuria. That evening Seira goes to visit Countess Stronger. AS she exists, a muscle bound man in battered full plate armor and a bushy beard is exiting. He has a barbed, horrible greataxe slung over his shoulder, whistling merrily. Elle is at the counter, inspecting what looks tto be a pile of gems.
01[21:16] <Seira> "Hi!" Seira greets the Countess. "So I hear you're not really into politics? A nice estate, some ever-helpful subjects... could've been fun."
[21:20] <Anastasia> Taking a small gemstone and polishing it against her sleeve gently, "Yes, well...the piles of gold, gems and magical items were a good counter argument," she grins to Seira. "Honestly, I didn't think I had the time to do both, once I heard what they wanted out of me."
01[21:27] <Seira> "The answer is to smile and nod. And delegate. A lot." Seira shrugs. "Then again, I can't really fault any resolution that keeps you near because I like you a lot and would be sad if you left."
[21:30] <Anastasia> "That too," Elle smiles and puts back the gem. "That and I'd have less time to marvel at all the lovely things you bring back. That gnomish axe just sold for quite a good pile of gemstones." Whistling a merry note at it, "I'm getting better and better at itemscrafting, I don't want to give it up just when I'm becoming exceptional."
01[21:31] <Seira> "This clearly calls for a challenge." Seira nods to herself. "I'll rise up to it with my order."
[21:34] <Anastasia> "Oh, did you come here to order something," Elle perks up instantly, "Well then, what do you want?"
01[21:35] <Seira> "A pair of boots. Mine served me well, but I want a change." Seira waves airily. "But I can give you all the details later. How have you been? It occurs to me that I haven't been around much recently."
[21:36] <Anastasia> "Yes. Going and killing an invading army of devils does that," Chuckling warmly, "Hold on a moment, I need to drop these in back. My help has the day off." With a slight pout she heads back with the gems, returning without them briefly after. "Aaah then. How are you? Still learning?"
01[21:38] <Seira> "Ah, yes. Your help. I heard of some young mage you've gotten for yourself, but haven't had a chance to meet... her?"
[21:41] <Anastasia> "Yes. I so needed the relief. When you spend days enchanting magical equipment, you need someone to run things." Elle rubs the back of her neck, "She's a bit quiet, but she's a good worker."
01[21:44] <Seira> "But she's not an awesome dragon-elf, right? She's just a boring, mundane human with some magic, right?"
[21:45] <Anastasia> "What, are you becoming popular enough to have imitations? No, she's not particularly noteworthy like that."
01[21:46] <Seira> "I'm relieved I'm not being replaced for a younger model," Seira says to that, really does sounding relieved. "Though I doubt she would actually be younger. It's just a figure of speech."
[21:47] <Anastasia> "...Seira, are you nervous?" Elle stops her amusement, "...Really now, I just needed some extra help, and you're tied up saving the world and being a legendary adventurer."
01[21:50] <Seira> "I cannot respond to that while being truthful and preserving my dignity at the same time," Seira tells her. "And while we're on the subject, Elle, except not really, what would you think about having contacts in the Fiefdoms? Actual contacts that sell your wares and advertise and make purchases for you?
01[21:50] <Seira> The works. I'm trying to establish a base of power in Arad, and I would be really happy if you decided to join the venture. You know, either by having the temple of Waukeen refer people to you, or opening an actual branch over there."
[21:56] <Anastasia> "I could...but there is one concern. While I'd love to make more money and spread influence, I'm about at my capacity for making items. Between the custom orders I take form the guard, comissions and general work, I can't pump out an more than I am." Stretching back at this, "Even with a relative upsurge of magical items in the last year, I doubt I can make enough to seriously fuel another venture without some aid. That brings me to my
[21:56] <Anastasia> ome aid. That brings me to my next point -w hat about that magic school of yours?"
01[21:58] <Seira> "I can certainly make the more talented graduates an offer they won't refuse," Seira mentions. "Quite a lot of them are in this to get rich and avoid the battlefield. Having them make a living through crafting would be an ideal solution to their concerns."
01[21:59] <Seira> "Also," she adds suddenly, "there is much to be gained from trading, and this would open new opportunities -- a whole new clientelle that could sell you wares, not just request them made."
[22:01] <Anastasia> "I do trade a fair bit. Mages don't seem to be the sort to like to move directly from whatever keep they've taken great pains to establish, but I get emissaries with trade offers at times. Also, I do good business with travellers with good coin and the temples here. Still, as Balmuria's getting richer, the demand is outstripping the supply and my capacity to fill it."
[22:05] <Anastasia> "Still..." Thinking, "That's another reason. A base of crafting wizards here would help flush out the magical community and expand it."
01[22:05] <Seira> "Maybe I was too clever for my own good again and not clear enough. I will offer the graduates that show promise in the field and whose personalities are compatible with it to work with you, and give them favorable conditions I will finance entirely myself if need be since this is something that ultimately benefits all of the Baronies."
[22:10] <Anastasia> "Fine then," Elle agrees, "It'll probably take a bit of time to sort them out and get them running smoothly once I get them, but not dreadfully long."
01[22:15] <Seira> "Here's to making them productive magical citizens!" Seira blinks. "Well, this would sound better if I had a glass to toast with. But it's the thought that counts, right?"
[22:17] <Anastasia> Elle goes behind the counter, coming up with glasses and a bottle. "No, it's not magical," she chastens, removing a cork. "Still...yes, cheers. Oh! That reminds me. I got in touch with Lyselle."
01[22:18] <Seira> "Ah, yes!" Seira listens, holding up a glass for Elle to pour wine into. "How is she? Did the devil assassin leave a pretty sword behind? Ours did!"
[22:19] <Anastasia> "It's been inconclusive so far. I sent a few tokens of my esteem to help out." After pouring and taking a sip, "They're prepared, which should eliminate some of the danger."
01[22:21] <Seira> "Tell her that our devil was annoying and used Nondetection or some variant. Posting guards outside or having the basic alarm and see invisibility spells around may not help as much." Seira drinks from the wine herself. "And the sword's wounds could only be cured on holy ground, pretty much. Very nasty."
[22:23] <Anastasia> "Ugh. Vicious bastards," Elle makes a sour face, "I'll pass it along. Lyselle's capable enough. Oh, speaking of up north." She stops there. "Seira, is something going on at that temple of Helm? The one that had the gnomish city?"
01[22:26] <Seira> "Yes. It holds a sentient artifacts that can open gates to other planes of existence," Seira responds bluntly, if suitably quietly. "It's a secret, of course."
[22:31] <Anastasia> "Oh. I was wondering. I did some business with someone heading in that direction. He was a bit strange about it." A shrug, "I suppose it's not terribly important to me."
01[22:32] <Seira> "Oh? Would you mind filling me in?"
[22:35] <Anastasia> "Strange guy. He was middle aged and with a bad limp. He kept rubbing a holy symbol to Helm - one of those eyed gauntlets - and wanted me to enchant his spear. When it didn't work out, he just left." Waving her hand back and forth to the side, "Eeeeh. I didn't wanna ask our resident paladin of Helm, since I couldn't figure how to say, 'Oh Demedais! Do you know any middle aged loons who are in town and worship Helm!'"
01[22:39] <Seira> "That's okay, I can do that," Seira says readily.
[22:46] <Anastasia> "Good," Starting to smile, "Will he stare daggers into you when you ask?"
01[22:48] <Seira> "It's not the same if he doesn't," Seira agrees. "Oh! And happy early birthday!"
[22:50] <Anastasia> "Hm?" Elle asks, looking to Seira, "Are you about to give me something, then?" She smiles despite it.
01[22:52] <Seira> "Pyroclastic dragon scales," Seira says, nodding at her. "I saw them, and I thought of you." She wrinkles her forehead, before adding, "In a good way."
[22:52] <Anastasia> "...yes. As much as you pull it off well, I hope I don't remind people of a dragon myself." Chuckling with a red face there, "Pyroclastic...that doesnt' sound like a normal type of dragon."
01[22:54] <Seira> "It's an evil hell dragon, but that's okay! The nice celestial people told me the evil part could be fixed." Seira gives her a thumbs up for good measure.
[22:56] <Anastasia> "Dragonscale's good for anything. I'll have to check up on any possible uses for those sort of scales, but I'm sure I can come up with something," Elle agrees. "Dragons...just when Hell couldn't get any nastier."
01[23:00] <Seira> "It's okay, don't worry about a thing." Seira pats Elle's arm. "I don't like fiends one bit, so however nasty they get I'll just be there to kill the lot of them and they won't actually get a chance to harm anyone. There's no need to be apprehensive of Hell whatsover, because we're on the right side and that means we get to kick Hell's butt!"
[23:14] <Anastasia> "Good attitude," she smiles to Seira, "Alright. Let me close up now and get to work. It's late and I need to start researching."
06[23:15] * Seira nods. "Call on me if you need the help, alright?" she tells Elle suddenly. "Because it's you, I'll get right over. Unless there's, like, an invasion of Prime in progress at the time."

[Corwin]

[20:16] <Kotono> -----
[20:16] <Kotono> Alicia, do you have any immediate things you want to do or look into?
[20:18] <Ebiris> As far as fluffy stuff goes, I can offer Anty a job in the guard and take Marie to meet Obureth. I want to go back to Kelara to look into the brewing rebellion, but that can wait until magic items have been bought/upgraded (which should take about two months, so that can wait a bit). Then there's fixing the soul prison, sword of grief, and dragon scales, in that order of priority.
03[20:18] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[20:18] <Kotono> Let's do fluffy first and clear all that up. Preference on which you do first?
[20:19] <Alicia> Well, I can offer Anty the job then segue into going to the garrison with Marie (and possibly Anty if she chooses to take the job).
06[20:19] * Kotono nods.
[20:19] <Kotono> ------
[20:21] <Kotono> Finding Antenora isn't terribly hard - oh wait, it actually is this time. She's not training and she's not around Alicia's house. It's only when she goes near the Temple of Mystra that she chances onto her, seeing her leaving it. Her pace is good, though she wears a plain dress instead of armor for once. She still has her spear handy, strapped to her back.
[20:24] <Alicia> "Hello, Antenora," Alicia gives a little wave as she approaches. "Was just looking for you, actually. Doing anything in particular at the temple?" she asks curiously, peering past her towards the doors.
[20:25] <Kotono> The doors are currently blocked by a couple of people in robes entering. "You did mention the food it gives away to the poor, so I went to see that."
[20:26] <Alicia> "Did you volunteer to help out?" Alicia asks, gratified that her church appears to be well attended by Mystra's faithful.
[20:28] <Kotono> "Not yet. I wanted to see it myself." Antenora falls in step with Alicia, "I'll forgo the comment about them reminding me of lemures hoping for what little respite they can get." Her look is strangely, slightly cross. "It was ...interesting."
[20:31] <Alicia> "The idea is to let them sustain themselves with at least a little dignity, rather than begging for handouts," Alicia sighs softly, starting to amble in the direction of their house. "Are you still interested in giving lessons to the children, at least?"
[20:34] <Kotono> "How can a human be dignified when they can't even provide food for themselves? It's so important to them and they can't even do that." Antenora shakes hier head, "I'd like to try that, yes."
[20:36] <Alicia> "It is sad," the paladin agrees, "And wouldn't be necessary in a perfect world... but we don't live in such a world. So the least we can do is help the helpless to live as best they can, rather than leaving them to suffer and starve." Taking a deep breath, she lets that settle before essaying a smile, "You know, Marie also sounded interested in giving lessons at the church, too."
[20:40] <Kotono> "Did she?" Antenora asks, voice rather bland and unhinting.
[20:42] <Alicia> "Well, you didn't recoil in disgust, so that's a better reaction than I'd expected," Alicia goes on dryly. "Have you talked to her at all since she arrived?"
[20:44] <Kotono> Antenora doesn't answer until you finish getting back home, at the door. "Yeah, a bit....HOW did you get one of those? Why? Is this some sort of backhanded punishment from Mystra?"
[20:45] <Alicia> "She insists its a great honour and token of esteem," Alicia replies as she opens the door. Lowering her voice in case Marie is nearby to hear, "Reading between the lines, I get the idea that this is as much a test for her as anything to do with me."
[20:47] <Kotono> "Ouch." Antenora almost smiles at that, "So your familiar is simply here as a test to itself? How self efficating."
[20:50] <Alicia> "She's pretty desperate to make a good impression," Alicia agrees just as a tiny elfin figure flutters into view from the dining room.
[20:50] <Alicia> "Ah, you're early! I haven't made lunch, yet!" she proclaims, before adding in a tone stunningly void of guile, "Who's trying to make a good impression?"
[20:51] <Kotono> "You." Antenora states rather plainly, walking past. "You're one stepa way from doing wide eyes and pleading for everyone to like you."
[20:53] <Alicia> Marie twitches a couple of times, before spinning in the air to face Antenora's back as she walks past. "You're right, I'm doing it all wrong! Surely I should be playing the tortured miscreant and threatening to stab and betray her all the time even as I struggle with my conflicting subservient adoration! Would that work better, do you think?" she snaps
[20:54] <Alicia> .
[20:55] <Kotono> Turning with a smile, Antenora looks at the creature. "I didn't meant that entirely as an insult," she allows. "I suppose you have...innoncence."
[20:58] <Alicia> Alicia looked about to chastise Marie for going too far, but since Antenora didn't blow up she instead relents. "I'm sure you'll find some way to grind that out of me before all this is over," the eladrin continues in a suspicious tone.
[20:58] <Alicia> And finally Alicia just sighs. "Ladies, please, we're all on the same side here. Can't you too at least try to get along?" Besides, she can tell that the coure is actually a bit frightened beneath her facade, and doesn't want this to continue.
[21:03] <Kotono> "I don't know. Most of what I know says that innocence is meant to be ground out as a weakness." Antenora turns away, "I also hear it makes eladrin taste quite good to a devilish palate." Antenora turns again, licking her lips. "But...aaaah, Alicia is right. I hearby promise you'll never see the bottom of a pot or pan, as long as you restrain yourself a little bit."
[21:07] <Alicia> 'Just not today?' Alicia asks wearily, having to deal with three levels of conversation, the telepathic words from Antenora, the empathic sensations from Marie, and the actual spoken words.
[21:08] <Kotono> 'No matter what, order's always been there for me,' Antenora's mental voice becomes reflective as she walks away. 'I need that right now, still.'
[21:09] <Alicia> "Decadence is hardly a strength," Marie retorts at the erinyes back. "And I've been the model of restraint - it's not like I'm running around throwing rotten fruit at you and pushing you down the stairs or whatever sort of brainless pranks you seem to expect from my kind."
[21:09] <Alicia> "Marie, could you give us a minute?" Alicia asks patiently, shooing her back into the dining room as she follows Antenora. "There was another thing, Antenora, what I wanted to talk to you about originally."
[21:10] <Kotono> "Come on," Antenora starts to walk towards her room. "We'll talk later," she says to the eladrin absently, focusing on Alicia now.
06[21:11] * Alicia follows Antenora into her room. "Commander Obureth made an... interesting, proposal, earlier today," she begins.
[21:13] <Kotono> Antenora goes to a small table by her bed first, putting down a little mechanical thing there first. It looks like a three iron bands twisted together, yet in a perfect, simplistic order for all three. There's a strong symmetry to it. "What is it?" she asks.
[21:17] <Alicia> "You've been offered a position in the guard - as an ensign, I believe," Alicia wonders if that means she'll be officially part of the navy. Her tone is neutral, not wanting to spin it either way for Antenora.
[21:19] <Kotono> "You're kidding." Antenora stops, raising an eyebrow. "I feel lucky when I'm not called an abomination when I'm over there."
[21:21] <Alicia> "Obureth expressed... reservations, but it seems the orders came from above him - I'm assuming from people who don't know you're anything but the human you happen to look like," Alicia is forced to admit, though that's something likely to colour Antenora's judgement. She deserves the full facts, at least.
[21:22] <Kotono> "Ah." With a snort, "From above. Of course." She sits, "Do they want me? The ones that matter, and not some people butting in where their influence shouldn't be."
[21:24] <Alicia> "The Commander's the only one I've spoken to, and he made no secret his distaste for the idea," Alicia shakes her head.
[21:27] <Kotono> "What about you?" Antenora asks. "What do you think?"
[21:36] <Alicia> "Hmm..." Alicia drums her fingers on her thigh, knowing that Antenora will almost certainly follow her recommendation. Then again, is it really fair to withhold her counsel just as some arbitrary means to have her make a decision on her own? An uninformed one at that? "I entered the Crimson Guard as an act of desperation rather than it being a genuine choice."
[21:36] <Alicia> "It's not something I honestly regret, but at the same time... is it necessary to accept the chains of duty and obligation you're already trying to serve justice in the world? What if the United Baronies' 'justice' doesn't match up with my 'justice'?"
[21:36] <Alicia> "It hasn't happened yet, but leaders change. In a startlingly short time for someone with your perspective, I might add. I don't think you need a uniform to do what's right, Antenora. You've already surrendered yourself into my service - do you want to have another layer of bureaucracy and orders laid upon you on top of that?"
[21:39] <Kotono> "It would be comforting in a way..." Antenora murmurs, "But you're right there. I'm not sure what I'd do if there was a conflict there." She goes to sit down on her bed, looking to the little metal toy she put down. With a tap of her finger it starts to rotate, the three bands spinning in a perfectly intertwined and orderly pattern. "So you're telling me that you'd think it would be better for me to not be?"?
[21:42] <Alicia> "You've got to leave the security of the nest, as it were," Alicia reasons, curiously watching the toy. "I know it's comforting to surrender authority and simply follow orders because they're 'right', but one day you'll have to strike out on your own - I won't be around forever, after all. Joining a military organisation would be a backwards step."
[21:45] <Kotono> Antenora's gaze drifts to it, as it continues to endlessly repeat the same pattern without change. "Your life is like a flame in the wind," Antenora murmurs. "Yes, I know that. Then you've said enough to know my answer."
[21:49] <Alicia> "Still got a few decades left in me, have no fear," Alicia reassures stalwartly, then, in a more gentle tone, "Though, I wonder if in guiding you to follow my judgement, I've merely held you back in a different manner... Think it over, and if the prospect does hold appeal, you can change your mind." At that, she stands up and departs, leaving the erinyes to her thoughts.
[22:00] <Kotono> Later that day, the garrison awaits! Alicia travels with a friend on her shoulder(Or perhaps head even?), finding Commander Oberuth in his office, listening to Wedge give a report. "...and that was all, sir," he finishes, saluting.
[22:05] <Alicia> OOC: slightly amend that, I'm not going to walk around town with her in her normal form since she'd attract too much attention. I'll line, anyway.
[22:05] <Alicia> Entering Obureth's office, Alicia is flanked by a young woman of about Seira's height. Slim of build, and possessing angular features and long, delicately tapering, ears that protrude from the sides of her head, she looks like the classical elf maiden. Only her long hair, of a pale shade of violet never seen in nature, hints at her otherworldly heritage. She looks to be wearing some of Jessica's clothes, which are still a bit too big and
[22:05] <Alicia> "I feel so clumsy and big..." she whines petulantly while trailing Alicia, before almost bumping into the paladin as she stops and salutes Obureth. "Oh, should I salute, too?" she wonders aloud, waving her hand around her head in something that requires a very charitable interpretation to call a salute.
[22:05] <Alicia>  are still a bit too big and do her no favours.
[22:09] <Kotono> Commander Oberuth pauses as Wedge stairs. "Dismissed," he says to Wedge, who follows that order, while staring even on the way out.
[22:09] <Kotono> "Now then," Oberuth looks, "THAT'S your familiar?"
[22:11] <Alicia> "This isn't her natural form - much like Antenora would attract too much attention without a disguise, so would Marie. Normally she's about this high," she holds her two hands up about a foot apart.
[22:11] <Alicia> "Hi, I'm Marielle!" Marie waves, briefly getting distracted by her own hand. "It's so big..." she mutters, before returning her focus to Obureth. "I can also turn into a tiny ball of light!"
[22:13] <Kotono> "Let me see that - er, your normal form," Oberuth takes a moment to sigh. "At least you're cheerful, Marielle."
[22:16] <Alicia> Marie looks questioningly at Alicia, who focuses for a moment on dispelling the transmutation, resulting in a muffled thump as Jessica's clothes fall to the floor while Marie floats up in the air, now attired in her usual cute little green dress. She looks much the same except smaller, and now with two gossamer wings of light emanating from her back. "This is the first time I've been let out the house since I showed up, of course I'm che
[22:18] <Alicia>  I'm cheerful!"
[22:18] <Kotono> "It's good, it's good," Oberuth starts to smile as he listens to her, "I've been dealing with bored or grumpy soldiers all day. You're a nice change of pace."
[22:20] <Alicia> "So I pass muster? You're glad to have me on the team?" Marie asks hopefully as Alicia gathers up the borrowed clothes Marie had been wearing and neatly folds them.
[22:22] <Kotono> "That's a little premature, but I do appreciate your enthuiasm. You remind me of someone else on the guard when she's in a good mood." Oberuth leans back, listening, "I need to know exactly what you can do, and ifyo'ure comfortable in a fight."
[22:27] <Alicia> Marie nods excitedly. "Normally coure just get used as messengers and scouts, but since I'm linked to Alicia now I've got a portion of her skill. I've got a few magical abilities, too." As she concludes, she seems to fade away into nothingness, only to be replaced by a glowing sphere of faint purple light.
[22:27] <Alicia> "I can also do this!" she then descends, vanishing through the floor... and floating back up a few seconds later. "Barriers are nothing to me!" she laughs in triumph.
[22:30] <Kotono> "You do seem to attract these sort," Oberuth murmurs to Alicia, before, "Very good. What do you think of things like dragons, devils, or neighboring kingdoms that attack, Marielle?"
[22:34] <Alicia> Marie reappears in her humanoid form. "Well, it depends. I mean, if it's a nice dragon, then good for it! If it's a bad one, then we should do what we have to to stop it hurting anyone. Same with devils and kingdoms and anything else like that," she replies, sounding relatively subdued and thoughtful.
[22:35] <Kotono> "Alright. Are you certain?" He asks once more, "You'll have to follow orders."
[22:36] <Alicia> Marie briefly looks at Alicia, who doesn't seem to be giving anything away. All is silent as the little coure seems to be pondering her answer, before she just blurts out, "I'll follow any orders that Alicia follows."
[22:43] <Kotono> "Okay. That's good enough for now," Oberuth says at last. "But tell me honestly - is that hard for you?"
[22:48] <Alicia> "What, following orders?" Marie blinks, pressing a finger against her lips. "Not really. I just think of it as helping out a friend. You know, the way people like you and Antenora think, it's like I'm some sort of crazed anarchist who'd be contrary just out of principle. You don't need mindless obedience for people to get along, you know."
06[22:48] * Alicia coughs slightly. "It sounds nice in theory, at least," she allows, hoping Obureth won't react badly to being mentioned in the same breath as the ex-devil.
[22:55] <Kotono> "It does, doesn't it?" Oberuth agrees to Alicia. He seems to resist the urge to twitch. "As I said, it'll do for now. Be careful in the city, though. Most people still won't deal that well with a flying fairy fluttering around."
[22:57] <Alicia> "That's why she'll be in the form you saw a few minutes ago when we're walking around within town." Giving Obureth a salute at the dismissal, she turns to Marie, "Come on, lets find an empty room so you can get changed again," she tells her familiar, heading out to find a private spot within the garrison while Marie gives a cheerful wave and follows.
[22:59] <Kotono> "Wait, Alicia," Oberuth raises his voice. "Stay a minute while your familiar gets changed or whatnot."
[23:00] <Alicia> "I actually need to go with her to cast the spell to change her form," Alicia explains, turning to face Obureth while Marie blushes and floats behind the paladin's back.
[23:01] <Kotono> "Nevermind then, you're no fool and it'll hold. Dismissed."
[23:02] <Alicia> "I can come back after she's changed?" Alicia offers, somewhat curious what Obureth had wanted to talk about.

[Corwin]

[20:48] <Kotono> Once Alicia's seen her cute pixie change into Jessica's clothes again, she returns alone to see the Commander. "Now then," he smiles faintly, "I don't doubt it's nothing but a being of good, but it does seem to be a little childish and erratic."
[20:52] <Alicia> "She, sir," Alicia gently corrects. "And I don't think she's entirely as naive as she lets on. I don't imagine she would have been sent if she were going to be a burden."
[20:54] <Kotono> "Good. I don't mean it any ill will, but I am slightly concerned about anyone serving under me that has such obvious difficulty contemplating taking orders."Stopping to smile, "Yes, she. Apologies. As lon gas you keep it going along, though, I don't think it'll be a problem. She's as sweet as sugar by apperances."
[20:56] <Alicia> "If I may, sir, I believe you'd have better luck getting Marie to follow your instructions than you would Seira's rat," Alicia suggests dryly. "I don't imagine we'll have any problems unless she's put in a position of following orders that conflict with her duties to myself and Mystra."
[20:58] <Kotono> "Heaven help me if Ihave to start giving Seira's rat orders," Oberuth resists a smile at that, "Alright, I just wanted to make that clear."
06[20:59] * Alicia nods. "Of course, sir. Will there be anything else?"
[21:01] <Kotono> "No, unless you want to help design a uniform for Seira's rat?" Oberuth asks with a straight face, before, "Dismissed."
06[21:02] * Alicia salutes and then exits, finding Marie waiting outside. "Come on, lets get you some clothes of your own to wear when you're in this form, since it'll probably be a regular occurance," she suggests as they head off.
[21:07] <Kotono> ---
[21:19] <Kotono> As Alicia walks away from the garrison after a long day, the sun sets behind her. A drizzle falls from the sky, the overcast mantle dropping down occasional, misty droplets of rain.  She is alone as she walks into the new quarter. But as she walks, "Alicia," A man voice calls from behind her.
06[21:20] * Alicia stops and turns to regard the man addressing her to see if she recognises him, since the voice isn't ringing any bells.
[21:21] <Kotono> The figure wears a heavy cloak, keeping the rain out. He withdraws the hood - Eudard of Torm looks at Alicia. "Good day." he says, his tones kept low and subdued.
[21:22] <Alicia> Well, it has been a while, but she should have recognised the voice, really. "Greetings to you, Sir Eudard," she returns politely, though with no real warmth. "Is there something I can help you with?"
[21:24] <Kotono> "There is a matter I wished to raise with you," he continues to walk, the streets busy enough. His voice is just loud enough to carry. "I have heard you have a creature of chaos in your control now."
06[21:26] * Alicia folds her arms, not moving and looking very deeply unimpressed. "I find myself most curious as to where you get your information from, Sir Eudard," she notes levelly.
[21:28] <Kotono> "I find that I'm worried on the path you walk, paladin," Eudard retorts quietly, but bringing no sharpness or malice to his voice. "You consort with evil and chaos in a way that is unbecoming. You are surrounded in noble praise, yet I worry you plummet like a rock."
[21:30] <Alicia> "That 'creature of chaos' you speak of is a direct servant of Mystra herself," Alicia replies, her own tone sounding quite sharp. "Now, are you going to answer my question or not?"
[21:32] <Kotono> "To those that seek, Lord Torm offers his noble vision and blessing," is all that Eudard says to that. "I warn that you continue to turn away from the true path. You should consider repentence."
06[21:36] * Alicia glares hard at Eudard. "Torm may style himself as the 'god of paladins', but he is not *my* God," she replies coldly. "I answer to the Lady of Mysteries alone, and by Her grace I am still favoured. Perhaps Torm should look after his own house before casting aspersions elsewhere?"
[21:39] <Kotono> "Torm watches you, regardless if you admit it or not. The flames of Perdition are everlasting, as are the madnesses of the Abyss." His own tone is like iron, "Court not your own downfall, Alicia."
[21:40] <Alicia> Alicia, at this point, is honestly curious. 'Hell Striker... is this man a *good* man?' she asks her sword.
[21:42] <Kotono> '...Alicia,' Hell Striker's own diction is paused. 'His aura is that of both the light and the dark. He is torn open like a wound.'
[21:43] <Alicia> Alicia seems honestly startled for a moment, a visible look of concern in her face that stems not at all from Eudard's dire warnings, even if he'll likely choose to interpret them that way. She taps into her own gift for reading the souls of the wicked, seeing what she can see herself from the other paladin.
[21:44] <Alicia> *interpret it that way
[21:45] <Kotono> "Lord Torm will not hesitate to cast down the false and the unworthy into there. Your soul will suffer should you not repent of your foolishness. There is still time, turn away from your path, paladin." Eudard goes on, as Alicia looks.
[21:51] <Alicia> "Eudard..." Alicia sounds vaguely dazed and distracted as she concludes, "Shut up." She's heard lots of stories, but she's never met a fallen paladin before... but is he even truly that far gone? Hell Striker saw good and evil in hime... Hopefully before he can truly process that and bristle with indignation, she goes on,
[21:51] <Alicia> "Can't you see what's happened to you? You speak of suffering and unworthiness - where is the righteousness and forgiveness of the heavens in your words? Your demeanour is that of a zealot and a tyrant, not a paladin - we're supposed to be figures of inspiration, ideals for others to aspire to. Not damnation threatening demagogues."
[21:54] <Kotono> OOC - That was a pretty good speech, make a diplo check with a +2 mod?
[21:54] <Alicia> roll 1d20+20
05[21:54] -sebben.dejatoons.net:@#evildunes- Alicia invited Hatbot into the channel.
03[21:55] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) has joined #evildunes
03[21:55] * Alicia sets mode: +v Hatbot
[21:55] <Alicia> roll 1d20+20
06[21:55] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+20 and gets 32."12 [1d20=12]
[21:58] <Kotono> "What?" He actually gapes at the brazen shut up, then hooked as Alicia speaks. "Yes, but...there is a time for rightouesness and forgiveness! But you walk in brimstone and chaos!" Retorting with a flash in his eyes. "Why do you speak of things that don't matter right now? All the matters is the word of Torm and the judgment!"
[21:58] <Kotono> (More)
Session Close: Thu Apr 10 22:06:21 2008

Session Start: Thu Apr 10 22:06:21 2008
Session Ident: #evildunes
02[22:06] * Disconnected
02[22:06] * Attempting to rejoin channel #evildunes
03[22:06] * Rejoined channel #evildunes
03[22:06] * Topic is 'Erinyes 1>Alicia>Latha>Erinyes2>Seira>Antenora'
03[22:06] * Set by Kotono on Fri Mar 14 23:21:20
03[22:06] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Seira
[22:08] <Kotono> "...you sound like..." Eudard slows now, looking down. "But...but...I can't doubt Torm's relevations." His voice hesitates, "I won't. I can't. I won't!" He spins and whirls around, and nearly falls over and he hurries off, half running down the wet street.
06[22:12] * Alicia considers pursuing him, but decides to let him reflect on what she's said in peace. Hopefully it'll sink in. Then again... she'd lay fair odds that Eudard is receiving his 'revelations' from a source away from the Loyal Fury. She doesn't particularly want him to do something foolish or dangerous. So, Alicia starts walking, intent on following at a discreet distance just to see exactly where he's headed.
[22:21] <Kotono> Eudard doesn't take any particular means to hide himself, so following him is simple. He heads into the new quarter and towards the Temple of Torm.
[22:22] <Alicia> Once he goes in there, Alicia makes a quick decision and hurries home. Time for Marie to prove herself.
[22:24] <Kotono> At home, Alicia finds Marie at the table, opposite Antenora. The two are eyeing each other warily, as Jessica puts down some bowls of fruit and bread. "That nice baker boy made a special order for-hm? Oh, sister!" Jessica looks up, "Is something wrong?"
[22:27] <Alicia> "I think our local paladin of Torm is under some malign influence," Alicia admits, focusing her attention on her new familiar. "Marie, you said you're good at sneaking around, right?" Before she can even reply, "I'd like you to keep an eye on Eudard at the Temple of Torm. Don't let him see you, just make sure he doesn't do anything reckless - come get me if he does."
[22:28] <Kotono> Antenora raises an eyebrow, but says nothing here.
[22:29] <Alicia> Marie floats up into the air with a look of concern, "What does he look like?" she asks, receiving a description from Alicia in reply. "Okay, how long should I watch him for?"
[22:29] <Alicia> "Just for tonight - I said some things that seemed to rattle him, I just want to make sure he doesn't go off the deep end in response," Alicia explains.
[22:30] <Alicia> "Okay, you can count on me!" Marie nods brightly, her humanoid form giving way to an insubstantial ball of light before she flies up through the ceiling, intending to head to the Temple of Torm to carry out Alicia's wishes!
[22:34] <Kotono> Once Marie's flown off, "What's going on," Antenora asks, as Jessica slightly sighs and takes up one of the bowls of fruit..."Oh wait, are you hungry, sister?"
06[22:38] * Alicia takes a seat at the table and nods to Jessica. "Haven't had dinner, yet," she agrees, before sighing. "Eudard accosted me in the street and made some dire warnings about my future because he'd found out I was consorting with a 'creature of chaos'. His entire manner was unpleasant and confrontational, so eventually I just took a peek - the man radiates as much evil as any devil."
[22:38] <Alicia> "Yet Hell Striker says he also still radiates goodness. I challenged him on his manner and how it was unbecoming of a paladin, and he became distressed before running back to his temple. I worry he's come under the influence of some malign force that poses as his God to manipulate him, and fear he may be compelled to do something rash."
[22:42] <Kotono> "Curious." Antenora murmurs, "Then we'll find out as she watches, perhaps?"
[22:44] <Alicia> "It is my hope that he will simply take some time in quiet to reflect on my words, so I did not want to disturb him further," Alicia admits, "But at the same time, I'd be remiss to leave him entirely unsupervised given my concerns. Marie seems to have a talent for being inconspicous when she wishes, so hopefully she can keep a discreet eye on him without it going any further."
[22:46] <Kotono> Meanwhile...
[22:47] <Kotono> A little fairy flies in the air, above the city of Balmuria. It heads to the temple of Torm with a haste, approaching it. To her magic helped eyes, there is neither evil or magic radiating from the outer building. Below, the doors are open, af ew people coming and going from Torm's temple.
[22:51] <Alicia> Looking like nothing more than a pale purple smudge against the drizzly sky, even if anyone had sharp enough eyes to pick her out, Marie cuts an inconspicious figure as she floats down towards the roof of the temple. This is the first real job Alicia's given her, and she's determined not to screw it up!
[22:51] <Alicia> Starting at the rear of the building, she sinks through the roof and finds a shadowy spot to hide in against the ceiling, looking for a man matching the description Alicia gave her.
[22:52] <Alicia> OOC: taking 10 on hide for 34
[22:53] <Kotono> The back of the building is mostly interior rooms and bedrooms. Nothing too interesting there. As you approach forward, Marie notes the man matching the description. He's hurrying down a hall towards the back, coming towards Marie.
[22:54] <Alicia> OOC: is he evil or magical?
[22:58] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 spellcraft!
06[22:58] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 spellcraft! and gets 13."12 [1d20=6]
[22:59] <Alicia> Marie remains against the ceiling, letting him pass beneath her before she follows from at least ten feet behind.
[23:03] <Kotono> While Marie can't figure out the magic specifics, she does follow. Eudard continues his path along, going down to the end of the hall. Here are several rooms, Eudard going to one on the right. The lighting is dim here, just a few torches kept. He reaches into his cloak's pocket, a key taken out and used.
[23:04] <Alicia> Marie is like a tiny ball-shaped flying ninja! Like a ghost as she stealthily follows the paladin/blackguard without being detected!
[23:08] <Kotono> The door opens! It's darker inside, a plain chamber. Moderate magic radiates out of the room.
[23:10] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7 spellcraft~
06[23:10] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 spellcraft~ and gets 9."12 [1d20=2]
[23:11] <Alicia> Marie peers inside the room through the door for any furniture or other doors.
[23:13] <Kotono> It's a large rom and it's very plain. Eudard is going in nonetheless, moving to close the door as he goes in.
[23:13] <Alicia> No furniture at all?
[23:14] <Kotono> No furniture at all.
[23:15] <Alicia> How very bizarre. Moving to the side of the doorway, Marie phases through the wall at where she'd gauge one of the upper corners of the room to be.
[23:15] <Kotono> OOC - Do you hvae SR, Marie?
[23:16] <Alicia> OOC: no
[23:16] <Kotono> OOC - Make a will save.
[23:17] <Alicia> roll 1d20+11 (+2 vs evil, protected from charms/compulsions by magic circle)
06[23:17] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+11 (+2 vs evil, protected from charms/compulsions by magic circle) and gets 15."12 [1d20=4]
[23:18] <Kotono> roll 1d10
06[23:18] * Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d10 and gets 1."12 [1d10=1]
[23:18] <Kotono> Marie tries to phase in throught he walls, but she's sent spinning back into the hall! OW! That hurt! OOC - 1 point of non lethal damage and you're shaken for 3 rounds.
[23:21] <Alicia> "Mmmm!" the coure emits a very quiet high pitched sound of distress, clamping down her urge to yelp out. Why does this horrible man have better magical defences around his home than Alicia? That's just not right at all! Not wanting to tempt fate further, she relies on the fact that she can see Eudard's evil aura to keep tabs on him from outside the room, settling for a hiding place in the hallway.
[23:22] <Alicia> OOC: Oh, wait!
[23:22] <Alicia> OOC: nevermind, carry on
[23:23] <Kotono> The door closes. Once the door is closed, Marie finds otu that she can't see Eudard's auras from in the room at all. The shaken feeling passes, however, as she waits and watches.
[23:24] <Alicia> Okay, that's no good at all. Does he have a lead-lined door or something? This is plainly absurd. Flying upwards and into the ceiling, Marie floats over to where she estimates the far side of the room to be, before steeling herself and poking downwards. Hopefully the warding only covers the side physical entry can come from.
[23:24] <Kotono> OOC - Will save again.
[23:25] <Alicia> roll 1d20+11 (+2 vs evil)
06[23:25] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+11 (+2 vs evil) and gets 22."12 [1d20=11]
[23:25] <Kotono> Marie phases through this time! She feels resistance and a little bit of fear run through her, but she makes it through the room. Inside is...a blank room. It's utterly empty, save for Eudard kneeling in the center. He is silent.
[23:27] <Alicia> Well, if he's human he's not going to see very well in the dark, so Marie should be able to hide quite easily. With the defences breached, she settles into a corner to keep an eye on Eudard.
[23:28] <Kotono> Marie feels deeply unsettled here. She feels bound, constricted. She can almost feel something tugging at her bottom. Eudard stays kneeling in the silence for now...OOC - Going to make a reaciton to that, or shall I continue on?
[23:31] <Alicia> Feeling scared and uneasy, Marie decides that there's really no reason for her to stay *inside* the creepy room of pain. It's not like Eudard can go anywhere, right? Satisfied with her rationalisation, she withdraws just a tiny bit into the ceiling, but not so far that the material blocks her ability to perceive Eudard's aura.
[23:33] <Alicia> Hopefully she'll also be able to hear him if he happens to talk to his dark masters or anything like that, too.

[Corwin]

[17:27] <Ebiris> [21:26] <Kotono> Marie phases through this time! She feels resistance and a little bit of fear run through her, but she makes it through the room. Inside is...a blank room. It's utterly empty, save for Eudard kneeling in the center. He is silent.
[17:27] <Ebiris> [21:27] <Alicia> Well, if he's human he's not going to see very well in the dark, so Marie should be able to hide quite easily. With the defences breached, she settles into a corner to keep an eye on Eudard.
[17:27] <Ebiris> [21:28] <Kotono> Marie feels deeply unsettled here. She feels bound, constricted. She can almost feel something tugging at her bottom. Eudard stays kneeling in the silence for now...OOC - Going to make a reaciton to that, or shall I continue on?
[17:27] <Ebiris> [21:31] <Alicia> Feeling scared and uneasy, Marie decides that there's really no reason for her to stay *inside* the creepy room of pain. It's not like Eudard can go anywhere, right? Satisfied with her rationalisation, she withdraws just a tiny bit into the ceiling, but not so far that the material blocks her ability to perceive Eudard's aura.
03[17:27] * Taishyr is now known as Demedais
[17:27] <Ebiris> [21:33] <Alicia> Hopefully she'll also be able to hear him if he happens to talk to his dark masters or anything like that, too.
03[17:27] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
03[17:28] * Corwin is now known as Seira
[17:30] <Kowork> Eudard seems to be lost in meditation or prayer. He keeps knelt down, head bowed and posture patience. The feeling of oppression makes Marie's body ache slightly.
03[17:30] * Kowork is now known as Kotono
[17:31] <Alicia> Even when she's inside the ceiling and not in the room any more?
[17:37] <Kotono> Marie finds that the feeling lingers inside of the wall.
[17:38] <Alicia> Retreating a bit further, Marie goes back until the thickness of the ceiling (or sheet of lead built within) blocks her senses, then edges forward just a smidge so she can continue keeping an 'eye' on Eudard.

[Corwin]

[21:03] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC - Last lines?
[21:03] <Alicia> [15:30] <Kowork> Eudard seems to be lost in meditation or prayer. He keeps knelt down, head bowed and posture patience. The feeling of oppression makes Marie's body ache slightly.
[21:03] <Alicia> [15:31] * Kowork is now known as Kotono
[21:03] <Alicia> [15:31] <Alicia> Even when she's inside the ceiling and not in the room any more?
[21:03] <Alicia> [15:37] <Kotono> Marie finds that the feeling lingers inside of the wall.
[21:03] <Alicia> [15:39] <Alicia> Retreating a bit further, Marie goes back until the thickness of the ceiling (or sheet of lead built within) blocks her senses, then edges forward just a smidge so she can continue keeping an 'eye' on Eudard.
[21:07] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Eudard stays knelt. He seems lost in his prayer or whatever he's doing, unmoving. About three minutes of tenseness pass before he at last stands up.
[21:09] <Alicia> Marie hopes he's going to go someplace where she can watch him more easily. This room is entirely unpleasant.
[21:13] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Eudard turns and heads out of the room. He goes down the hall, heading back towards the front. He goes to the public areas, the man cathedrial room and the alter to Torm. There are people about here, including a mammoth of a man. With a giant, barbed axe slung over his shoulder, "Yo, Eudard," Rods calls. "You got that job lined up?"
[21:16] <Alicia> Marie thinks she recognises this group from what Alicia told her of them, and wonders what a paladin would be doing employing mercenaries. Probably nothing good, she thinks as she hides amid the rafters, listening in.
[21:18] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Eudard nods curtly. "200 GP per bounty head, with a 50% bonus on the total if you bring back the leader's head. Also, the 500 gold fee for taking the job and travel expenses..." he reaches into a pouch on his side, taking out a few gemstones. "This should cover that."
[21:19] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Eeeh..." Rods rubs his chin, "It's a bit cheap..." He eyes the gems. "Sure, we might get three dozen of 'em easy, but we might not too. How abuot 300 a head?"
[21:19] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+11
06[21:19] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+11 and gets 23."12 [1d20=12]
[21:21] <Alicia> Heads? Marie's hackles are raised more and more. This doesn't sound like the sort of work a paladin should be giving out... and depending on what particular heads are being sought, it could be far worse.
[21:22] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "225 per head," Eudard counters, "There's danger, but no matter how well they're doing, they're still goblins." He grunts at that, "The trolls are just icing, if the story about the axe was true. That'll fetch you plenty as a spoil of war."
[21:23] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Yeah, yead," Rods rubs his chin again, "I'll take it, unless J or Serge throws a fit. If you don't hear back by tonight, we took the deal and we'll be leaving. You really think they're that many of those out there? One of those alone sells for about 3 grand."
[21:24] <Alicia> Marie continues to listen intently, considering whether she should report back to Alicia after the mercenary leaves. Does this qualify as suspicious? Trolls and goblins aren't nice, sure, but this sounds rather unprovoked.
[21:24] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Possible. All I've heard are third hand mentions from unreliable, non human sorces," Eudard nods curtly again. "If you can find it, better luck to you. If you can find it and there's anything left, even more luck to you. With the stories, you do realise that it's probably been looted most or all of the way now."
[21:26] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Yeah, yeah," Waving his hand as he takes the gems, "I heard the ruins 'round here are something fierce, anyway. Girl sounded legit, but hell, if all these trolls and goblins are getting' em, it can't be that bad. Anyway, we'll deal with the problem at least."
[21:27] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "What did you hear?" Eudard asks with a bit of a raised eyebrow. "Was it something about those ruins in particular?"
[21:27] <Alicia> Since it doesn't sound like Rod and his friends are leaving immediately, Marie elects to stick around just a bit longer to see if Eudard drops any more hints.
[21:28] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Naw. Just about them around here in general. The girl works with the Crimson Guard. Hell, I think she's a paladin, now that I remember," Scratching at his cheek and peering at Eudard, "That the ruins are dangerous as hell."
[21:29] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Alicia Reynes?" Eudard presses, a slight look passing over his face, one of consternation. "Yes, I know her."
[21:29] <Tiny_Ko_Army> After this, Eudard lowers his voice...OOC - MAke a listening check, Marie.
[21:30] <Alicia> roll 1d20+5 she'll totally move closer if she can't hear
06[21:30] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+5 she'll totally move closer if she can't hear and gets 13."12 [1d20=8]
[21:30] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Eudard's saying something, but Marie can't quite make it out!
[21:31] <Alicia> Marie flits directly over Eudard's head and then descends a few feet so she can hear him more easily, eager to find out exactly what he thinks of Alicia.
[21:32] <Alicia> OOC: taking 10 for 34 on hide
[21:33] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+15
06[21:33] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+15 and gets 30."12 [1d20=15]
[21:33] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Rods glances around a moment, as Marie gets closer! "...trust. She may mean well, but there are horrible...rumors about her," Eudard continues. "I would council that you think carefully before associating with her overly much."
[21:35] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Huh. She seemed on the level to me," Rods looks at Eudard carefully, with a raised eyebrow. "Hell, she even had the good sense to shoot Serge down," he adds with a big old grin.
[21:36] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "She talked of devils, did she not," Eudard goes on quietly. As Rod starts to nod, "She has dedicated her soul to them and plummets into an abyss of her own making. Friend, be cautious so that you are not ensnared into her folly."
[21:37] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Wait, she said she fought them a lot..." Rods frowns. "Out in the desert and around."
[21:37] <Alicia> On one hand, Alicia told her to be sneaky. On the other, wouldn't she be proud to hear how Marie stood up for her? Satisfied that she's making the right call according to her system of values, Marie manifests in her humanoid form. "That's pretty rich coming from someone who radiates as much evil as the average dretch!" she remonstrates downwards.
[21:37] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "The hell?" Rods looks up, peering with surprisingly s harp eyes. "...a fucking FAIRY?" he asks. "What the hell, Eudard? I didn't think that was what Torm...waitaminute, what?" he peers up at her. "Evil?"
[21:39] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "What?" Eudard peers a moment...
[21:39] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+14
06[21:39] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+14 and gets 22."12 [1d20=8]
[21:39] <Alicia> "My name is Marielle, divine servant of the Lady of Mysteries, and the familiar of the noble paladin you're slandering!" Marie declares, pointing down at Eudard. "You're not a paladin, you're a Blackguard!"
[21:39] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Courre?" He says aloud, a look of pique crossing over his face. "So Alicia's corrupting reach has gone that far..." he says, though his voice is slightly hollow. "Begone from this holy place!"
[21:40] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Well shit." Rods rubs the back of his head. "Y'know, I'm gonna be going. I don't know what's going on, I don't care what's going on, but it doesn't look to be making me money."
[21:43] <Alicia> "Yeah, you're fine, you're not evil," Marie waves blithely at Rod in dismissal, continuing to focus her attention on Eudard. "But I'll tell you what, you're about as evil as its physically possible for a mortal to get without being a direct servant of one of the dark Gods. And spreading lies is sure no way for a paladin to behave!"
[21:45] <Alicia> roll 1d20+8 religion - what does Marie know about Torm?
06[21:45] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+8 religion - what does Marie know about Torm? and gets 17."12 [1d20=9]
[21:46] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "You..." Eudard's voice picks up, an anger swelling in it. "You bring such lies here? You stay with someone who brooks the company of a devil? You have no right to stay here, lest you invite the punishment of Torm onto you and drag you into the pits!"
[21:48] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Rods just shakes his head. "Yeah...right. Uh, say hi to Alicia for me." he adds, before exiting out and shaking his head.
[21:48] <Alicia> "Bah, if this is the sort of behaviour Torm tolerates, I'll be glad to leave," Marie snarks back. "But I'll tell you this, if Alicia were half as bad as you claim - or as you act, for that matter - Mystra would've flung her out ages ago." Marie turns, about to fly out... then stops. (more)
[21:50] <Alicia> "Interesting word choice there... Torm would 'drag' me into the pits?" she observes slowly, half turning around. "Now, as far as I know, Torm lives on Mount Celestia. Generally the only Gods that would 'drag' someone into the pits are ones that already live there. If I were you, I'd wonder where I was getting my information from." At that, she disperses into a ball of light and then zooms up through the ceiling.
[21:51] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC - Make an initiative check.
[21:51] <Alicia> roll 1d20+7
06[21:51] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+7 and gets 12."12 [1d20=5]
[21:51] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+4
06[21:51] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+4 and gets 13."12 [1d20=9]
[21:53] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Eudard seems to pray for a moment - but he stops instead, just as Marie escapes up! He doesn't say anything, instead watching her go with a stony mask of unexpression on his face. Out Marie flees, making it outside unhurt.
[21:54] <Alicia> Marie then zooms home, eager to give Alicia a full report!
[21:54] <Tiny_Ko_Army> As Alicia finishes her meal of fruit, Antenora smothers a yawn and Jessica sits down. That's when a certain familiar busts in, "Oh, you're back," Jessica asks. "How'd it go?"
[21:55] <Alicia> "That was quick..." Alicia starts to frown, before Marie pops back into her humanoid form and starts excitedly talking.
[22:00] <Alicia> "I saw Eudard and he went into this room of some magic I couldn't identify but which knocked me backwards when I tried to go inside the first time, which hurt a little. But the walls and door were lined with lead or something, so I had to try again, and I managed on the second try, but it felt really horrible in there - like I was in a binding circle or something, so I didn't stick around long."
[22:00] <Alicia> "He just seemed to be sitting there, meditating or something," she goes on, starting to pace and gesticulate on the table, seemingly filled with energy. "Then he left and spoke to one of those mercenaries you met - Rod, the guy with the axe, right? He was offering them money to go kill goblins and trolls, and said some stuff about the gnome ruins."
[22:00] <Alicia> "That's when they started talking about you, and he said really horrible things which I just couldn't stand, so I popped up in front of him and totally told him whats what! I told him no way was I going to sit there and let him slander you, and he could just think again if that's what he was going to do!"
[22:00] <Alicia> "Then he got really mad and that Rod guy left - he said to say hi to you, though - and Eudard said Torm would drag me into the pit, which I pointed out was a really weird way of phrasing it, then I came back here!" She concludes, beaming up at Alicia. "Did I do good?"
[22:01] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Antenora blinks a few times, "Did she say that in Common, or was that some kind of..." she muses, before going quiet and listening.
06[22:03] * Alicia is silent for a long moment as she digests that, before she finally just exhales. "Not that I don't appreciate your spirited defence of my integrity," Marie beams more at this, "But didn't I tell you not to be seen?"
[22:03] <Alicia> Her smile falls apart. "But he said that you'd dedicated your soul to devils and would wind up in the Abyss! Which I guess shows how poorly informed he is, when you think about it. That sort of thing reflects badly on me and Mystra, too, you know! I wasn't about to just let it slide!"
[22:05] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Bad planar knowledge aside," Antenora speaks up, "Alicia's right. Stealth is pointless if you expose yourself like that. If he's so evil, you're lucky he didn't do something unpleasant to you."
[22:06] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Oh, come on...even that aside, Marie meant well," Jessica goes over to her. "It sounds like the pompous fool had it coming."
[22:08] <Alicia> "Indeed," Alicia nods in agreement with Antenora. "He's conflicted - Hell Striker said there was good in him to match the evil." She briefly glances at the erinyes who suffers the same condition, "Though I did not think such was really possible in mortals. Regardless, he's in a precarious position, and such provocation will likely do more harm than good."
[22:08] <Alicia> Standing up, "I think it's best if I go talk to him before this spins further out of control."
[22:08] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "It does beg the question of how the hell he does have that," Antenora scowls, stnading as well. "I'd like to go with you, Alicia."
[22:10] <Alicia> "No," Alicia holds up her hands to forestall any volunteers. "It's best if I do this alone. He might... misunderstand if we appear in numbers."
[22:10] <Alicia> Marie looks rather disappointed at this, sitting down huffily on the table.
[22:11] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "This is directly related to my interests," Antenora counters, "If he's somehow managed this, I'd like to know how and why. If s omeone can fall the opposite way, I'd like to see it."
[22:13] <Alicia> "And likely you will," Alicia nods, "But not tonight." Softening her tone, "Listen, if we all go to confront him, I know he's going to start ranting about creatures of chaos," she gestures at her familiar, "And spawn of the Nine Hells," she includes Antenora in the gesture, "And we won't get anything done. This is going to requite a delicate touch, okay?"
[22:22] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Antenora grunts, starting to speak once, but she cuts herself off. "Alright."
[22:24] <Alicia> "Thank you," Alicia gives Antenora an appreciative smile for restraining herself despite her obvious interest in this matter. "I'll be back shortly," she tells the others, getting up and heading out towards the temple of Torm at a brisk pace.
[22:35] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The remaining daylight fades as Alicia heads out. The Temple of Torm's doors are still open, however, though inside you see a few underpriests about, but no sign of Eudard on a glance Just those and a few worshippers at the altar.
06[22:37] * Alicia hesitates a moment, trying to decide how to present herself. Concillatory, because she doesn't want to provoke him further... but she still can't meekly let his slander about her slide. It's a tricky balancing act that's perhaps best decided once she sees how Eudard himself reacts to her arrival. Drawing up all her considerable presence, she strides in through the doorway and looks around for Eudard. Or any other evil, for that
[22:42] <Alicia>  for that matter.
[22:45] <Tiny_Ko_Army> AS Alicia enters, one of the underpriests takes note of her. He approaches, a young man with a strong step. "Hail," he calls, "Do you look for guidance in the hall of Torm?"
[22:46] <Alicia> "I'm actually looking for Eudard," Alicia replies, relieved not to sense any evil. Though that likely means he's either not here or cooped up in the lead-lined room Marie mentioned.
[22:47] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "I'm sorry, but Sir Eudard is currently busy and has asked not to be disturbed." The man inclines his head in apology. "If it is a matter of faith, I can help you with it."
[22:49] <Alicia> "It's more of a personal matter," Alicia replies delicately. "Do you know what it is that occupies his attention so?"
[22:50] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "I'm sorry, but I don't," he answers. "If you wish, I can record a message and I can pass it onto him when he is not so occupied."
[22:52] <Alicia> roll 1d20+6 sense motive is his ignorance genuine?
06[22:52] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+6 sense motive is his ignorance genuine? and gets 15."12 [1d20=9]
[22:52] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+6
06[22:52] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+6 and gets 22."12 [1d20=16]
[22:54] <Alicia> "No, I think I'll wait here," Alicia replies primly after a moment's thought.