The Next Step Forward

[Iron Dragoon]

"There's your first research project. Find a few legends you're interested in and we'll narrow it down from there."

[Anastasia]

As you talk, there is a knocking on the door. "Ma'am?" A page calls, voice young and reedy, "T-there's a message for you here. A d-d-divine message."

Emily nods quickly and pauses, "Oh, is that Mom already?"

[Iron Dragoon]

"Enter. What sort of message? A carrier or something else?"

[Anastasia]

"A golden rain of coins and an envelope, along with a strong impression it's for you, ma'am."

The page is a young man, still zit-covered and youthful, holding a gold embossed white envelope like it's the most precious thing he has.

As Emily quickly pales, Elle merely adds, "That's one way Waukeen favors sending a message."

[Iron Dragoon]

"Indeed. Pass it here."

Alyssa holds her hand out for it.

[Anastasia]

The envelope is handed over. You have a sudden sense that you're able to open the envelope safely.

[Iron Dragoon]

Alyssa opens and reads it.

[Anastasia]

It reads as follows,

"Dear High Transmuter Alyssa, Regent

I require Emily Aryn to present herself to me at Brightwater at her earliest convenience. As you were involved in the incident with the Ring of Delaros, it would behoove you to attend as well.

Sincerely

Waukeen, The Golden Lady and Merchant's Friend."

[Iron Dragoon]

"It seems Waukeen wishes to see us in Brightwater, Emily. At our earliest convenience. A polite way of saying 'now.' I'll prepare myself; I've got some spells to cast before going anywhere and some things to coordinate to be done in the Order before I'm ready to go. Might I suggest you take some time to order your thoughts? Writing a quick outline helps."

[Anastasia]

"...eeep." Emily makes a sound like a scared mouse and nods, hurrying to a table and taking out quill and parchment. As she scribbles away, "I'll stay here until you teleport there," Elle agrees. "I suggest making an entrance, but not so much so as to be tasteless."

[Iron Dragoon]

"She appreciates the ostentatious, does she? Well, I believe she'll be a bit disappointed with me. I'm an explorer and researcher, and a blacksmith's daughter."

Alyssa stands.

"Ms. Stronger, might I suggest you and Emily establish a way to contact each other? I think something for myself would be wise, as well, in case I need to contact one of your people."

[Anastasia]

"We will. A dragon messenger, I think," Elle says, "You'll know it when you see it."

[Iron Dragoon]

"Mmm. Dragons. After Ao launched me onto this stage, my... interest in dragons has tempered a bit. But yes, it suits Seira. I'll go prepare."

[Anastasia]

Io, Iddy. Io. Io =/= Ao, it's an important distinction and highly relevant to this game.

Normally I'd let that sorta thing go, but it's legitimately important here.

[Iron Dragoon]

Gotcha, fixed below.

"Mmm. Dragons. After Io launched me onto this stage, my... interest in dragons has tempered a bit. But yes, it suits Seira. I'll go prepare."