Gossiping (Afina)

[Ebiris]

She is a unique creature with an achievement never before matched in all the planes underpinning her very existence. She thinks that deserves a little respect, at least! "We do not have the time to attack all who traffic with Baator, but we recognise them as our enemies nonetheless," she says of the attack on the slave pens. A pity it didn't lead to the surge in recruitment she'd hoped for, but a good deed is its own reward.

"Your Shahzada was a most distinguished guest, Parent of the Waves. I am honoured by his compliments."

[Anastasia]

"We agree to the terms the Shahzada laid out," The Padisha says, "In addition, there is a group in the Citadel who wishes to meet with Aurora. Go to them with our blessings."

[Ebiris]

That sounds like a dismissal to her. "We thank you for your attention and your hospitality, Pearl of the Sea," Afina bows low once more, swimming backwards several paces before she turns to leave the throne's presence.

[Anastasia]

Once out of the hall, the three are escorted by Flowaran. "With me. There are mortals who asked the marid for assistance in finding Aurora in Water."

[Nephrite]

Moore's expression is one of neutrality, but the fact that he doesn't say anything speaks wonders.

[Ebiris]

Oh, could they be former slaves or friends of former slaves eager to join the good fight? "In that case we would be pleased to meet with them," Afina says to the Tsunami Lord. "I trust they have been vetted?"

[Anastasia]

"Yes," Is all the Tsunami Lord says, before you are lead along. Through archways and rooms, until you come to a garden of coral and seaweed trees. Standing before one is a middle aged human in mail and with a shield, emblazoned with a white griffon. He turns, hair iron gray. He offers a nod as the three approach, "The forces of Aurora?" he asks, as the Tsunami Lord slips back and away.

[Nephrite]

K: for what the griffon represents, if not just some sort of house crest?

[Anastasia]

K:N&R or a K:L you don't have, though bardic lore or bardic knack could help.

[Ebiris]

"Yes, I am general Afina Devilsbane," Afina introduces herself. "With me are colonel Drena and major Moore." She's actually quite proud of herself for not immediately cringing at that alliteration. Maybe they can rush through a promotion for Moore anyway, given his emphasis on motivating troops more of a command role might suit better.

[Nephrite]

K:N&R or a K:L you don't have, though bardic lore or bardic knack could help.

Either one will be 31 with Taking 10.

[Anastasia]

"Sir Richard Brownfeather." He introduces himself with a slight bow, "My kinsman had vanished months ago with little known, save that he and and many around him simply vanished. Yet he returns suddenly, safe and with a marvelous tale of things beyond the Ten Dynasties."

Moore recalls a stray bit of heraldric lore he picked up studying recently. The name clinches it, the Brownfeathers are a noble family on a Prime. Unremarkable enough, but the name and heraldry matches. They're notable for having an ancestor that wooed a planetar and the two founded a dynasty. While the celestial blood has long since been drowned in mortal blood, the family is still known for valor.

[Ebiris]

"Run afoul of the Efreet, had he?" Afina asks, fluttering over at head height for Sir Brownfeather. "We wiped out one of their slave pens not too long ago. It was but one of many, unfortunately."

[Anastasia]

"Unfortunate is not the word. Barbaric is closer. Unacceptable," Sir Richard says coldly, "The Brownfeathers owe Aurora a debt of honor. We would aid you, if you would have us. A squad of trained knights, squires for support, war hounds and griffon riders."

[Ebiris]

"Our Crusade can always use more people willing to stand up and fight the tyranny of Hell," Afina says, pleased. "Your kinsman told you of our war to liberate Lifasa?"