Dawn of the Third Age/IC Logs/Session 02
Session Start (Anshu:#celestialdeliberative): Sun Aug 29 07:59:48 2010 -0600
[07:59] *** Anshu_ has joined #celestialdeliberative
[08:00] *** Anshu_ is now known as Anshu
[08:33] *** Anshu is now known as Taurus_II
[08:35] *** Brazen_Sand has joined #celestialdeliberative
[09:18] *** dakkareth has joined #celestialdeliberative
[09:19] <@Taurus_II> hello?
[09:19] <dakkareth> 'lo
[09:19] <@Taurus_II> ah, ok
[09:19] <@Taurus_II> my IRC can't seem to make up its mind whether you're online or not
[09:20] *** You are no longer marked as being away
[09:24] <Brazen_Sand> hello
[09:27] *** dakkareth is now known as dak|cooking
[10:35] *** Raksi has joined #celestialdeliberative
[10:35] <Raksi> RaWr o:
[10:36] <@Taurus_II> remember the OOC channel
[10:36] <Raksi> derp oh yeah
[10:36] <@Taurus_II> same name as this one, only with OOC at the end
[10:37] <Brazen_Sand> yaaaay
[10:37] <Brazen_Sand> other people
[10:37] <Raksi> argh issues xD gimmie a link like last time
[10:40] <Brazen_Sand> #celestialdeliberativeOOC
[10:40] *** dak|cooking is now known as dakkareth
[10:44] <Brazen_Sand> Is Hattori and Rand around?
[10:44] <Brazen_Sand> *are
[10:45] <Brazen_Sand> d'oh, wrong channel
[10:49] *** Myllinnia has joined #celestialdeliberative
[10:51] <dakkareth> also join #celestialdeliberativeOOC :)
[10:52] <Brazen_Sand> hiya Myll
[10:58] *** Hattori has joined #celestialdeliberative
[11:11] *** Myllinnia is now known as Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby
[11:12] *** Raksi is now known as Lady_Daethia
[11:34] *** dakkareth is now known as Nomoe_Hideak
[11:34] *** Nomoe_Hideak is now known as Nomoe_Hideaki
[11:41] *** Hattori is now known as Noldarr
[11:48] <@Taurus_II> You're freshly arrived in the Lap, posing as wealthy tourists (and attendants thereof) as you walk through the city streets, the Penitent towering above you. The streets are busy, but most clear a path for you thanks to Brazen's glowering presence. Occasionally, as people move out of your way, you see small, multi-paged pamphlets clutched in hands, tucked into bags or pockets, or simply blowing along the street.
[11:49] <@Taurus_II> Nomoe will recognize these as being of a type with the samples of the fundamentalists' propaganda on file.
[11:49] * Brazen_Sand grabbed one of the pamphlets and started to read it
[11:50] * Nomoe_Hideaki has reluctantly replaced the haori with his family Mon with one showing a multitude of cloud patterns, which he wears over clothes in the very lightest of blues. His usual darker tones would not blend in well and be uncomfortable in the Southern heat, after all.
[11:51] * Noldarr is rather bad at deception and so has taken the 'guise' of an idealistic, rather overenthusiastic warlord, the eldest son of the family.
[11:51] * Brazen_Sand was wearing an only slightly decorated desert robe
[11:51] <Brazen_Sand> *enough to seem well off, but not important
[11:54] * Lady_Daethia wanders the streets eyeing the stands of trinkets as they go dressed in a blue and white high cut kimono fanning herself as she goes.
[11:55] <Brazen_Sand> "It's actually rather nice to come up here. Not as fancy as the Blessed Isle, but still rather comfortable." Brazen admitted quietly
[11:55] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby doesn't change overly much, taking the appearance style of casual Blessed Isle wear. Her autochthonian garb would likely stick out too much here. She eyes the pamphlets and the uncertain people with curiosity.
[11:55] * Nomoe_Hideaki directs one of his servants to pick up one of the pamphlets for him, takes a brief look at it, then waves for it to be put away. "Immaculate propaganda," he says quietly to the others. "On file, along with numerous others, in the reports."
[11:55] <Noldarr> "I've never been to this specific part of the south, but I recall fighting some manner of monstrosity in the region..."
[11:56] <Brazen_Sand> "What did it look like, maybe I heard about it." Brazen said casually while reading the pamphlet. Launjilla read it over his shoulder, invisible to anyone unable to see spirits
[12:00] <Noldarr> "It had seventeen arms. Some sort of Behemoth. Said something about Chungira..."
[12:00] * Nomoe_Hideaki plays the part of the wealthy tourist, looking around everywhere, seemingly rating examples of architecture and art in his mind, and directing his servants to pick up a few souvenirs. What's less apparent is, that he is actually employing his Sorcerer's Eye hearthstone to read - as well as he can anyway - the essence patterns all around him.
[12:00] <Nomoe_Hideaki> His way slowly but methodically leads towards the place indicated in the reports as the site of the battle where the alleged Solar was slain.
[12:00] <Brazen_Sand> Launjilla gives a friendly wave to the Solar as his eyes go across it
[12:02] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Interesting," she says in regard to Noldarr. She is silent though mostly as the follow the path up, Nomoe Hideaki leading the way, and only lets her curiousity show when some sort of object or contruction draws her attention.
[12:03] <@Taurus_II> The pamphlets which were picked up are indeed Immaculate propaganda. Judging from this pamphlet, they have decided to employ one of the oldest tricks in the book - accusations of sexual impropriety. This one features members of the Grand Circle using mind control magic and rape to keep the Mouth of Peace and the Immaculate Paragons under their control.
[12:03] <Noldarr> "Hm. How deplorable."
[12:04] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen shook his head. "Well that's just not right. I mean, the anatomy is terrible."
[12:04] <Lady_Daethia> "Graphic.." she raises a brow glancing over one of theyre shouolders at the pamphlet.
[12:04] * Brazen_Sand isn't very shocked. He's seen much much worse in Malfeas.
[12:05] * Nomoe_Hideaki shrugs lightly. "The idea is to engage the target population on an emotional rather than rational level. Not a bad success rate either in regions with low educational standards."
[12:06] * Brazen_Sand nodded. "Makes sense, even if it's completely retarded. But I guess these fools will believe anything."
[12:07] * Nomoe_Hideaki looks for signs of Deliberative countermeasures, their own propaganda or preachers.
[12:10] * Brazen_Sand frowned in contempt. The pamphlet actually said "read now and stop the Anathema threat!". well screw that! He wasn't going to waste his time reading some badly spelled, badly drawn missive." He crumpled up the pamphlet and tossed it away.
[12:10] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Propaganda is Propaganda," Shadow Phoenix Ruby says causually as they walk.
[12:11] <@Taurus_II> Nomoe will be able to see the Essence patterns embedded in the pamphlets; each panel is magically scribed, containing potent social magics.
[12:11] <Brazen_Sand> "Yeah. Real leaders are able to tell people what they really mean, and if they're smart enough and worthy to rule, then people will follow them regardless!"
[12:12] * Nomoe_Hideaki frowns slightly and directs his servant to pick up a few more examples. He knows from experience that it is a non-trivial effort to employ such Charms on a single piece of writing - how much more so then for this many?
[12:13] <Noldarr> "Indeed. Example is a far more powerful motivator than even the vilest tract."
[12:13] <@Taurus_II>
[12:07] * Nomoe_Hideaki looks for signs of Deliberative countermeasures, their own propaganda or preachers.
[12:16] <@Taurus_II> There are Deliberative posters in evidence, and Deliberative pamphlets. No preachers, though, at least not in this part of the city.
[12:17] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Powerful Charms are at work here as well. Celestial level, using the pamphlets as a medium." Hideaki gives the others a serious look. The Immaculate resistance might well have a powerful new ally indeed, as had been theorized.
[12:17] * Noldarr sighs. Why couldn't it have been an army of ten thousands? He could deal with armies of ten thousands.
[12:17] <Brazen_Sand> "Launjilla, can you read the essence?"
[12:18] <Brazen_Sand> He whispered to his dematerialized friend
[12:18] <Lady_Daethia> "I dont think its much of a push to guess who it might be" she states stretching lightly glancing idly about the streets
[12:19] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "It's not?" Hideaki gives Lady Daethia a questioning look. "In any case it's too early for assumptions, I think."
[12:19] <Brazen_Sand> "Is there a trail or anything you can follow?" He asked.
[12:22] <Lady_Daethia> "Well there isnt many of them in these times but the immaculates must still have some bronze sympathisers out there." She shrugs. "i could be wrong but its possible."
[12:22] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby keeps her thoughts to herself and looks to the others, her hands folded before her, a calm look upon her face.
[12:22] <Brazen_Sand> To no one in particular, making sure to stay watchful but not wanting to look too closely at any of the posters. This place was like some kind of battlefield of opposing traps
[12:23] <Nomoe_Hideaki> Nomoe Hideaki's expression is dark. "Not Sidereal. Akuma. Or Infernal."
[12:24] <Brazen_Sand> the large agatae returned to brazen's side and quickly reported what it had seen. Brazen just nodded and thought.
[12:25] <Brazen_Sand> "Someone has to be putting these up somewhere. Even if they're falling from the sky, there's always an origin point. We just have to find one and get them or it to tell us what they know!"
[12:31] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "The perpretrator of these possesses resources which would be well suited to either murdering a Solar Exalt or faking the same. A link between the two matters seems apparent."
[12:31] <Brazen_Sand> "Something will turn up if we keep walking."
[12:32] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "For the moment our stated goal is to examine the site of the alleged victory over a Solar Exalt, though."
[12:32] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "A dangerous advesary then," she says softly and glances to Nomoe.
[12:32] * Nomoe_Hideaki nods seriously at the ambassador's words.
[12:32] * Brazen_Sand scoffed in contempt. "Dangerous if you read their pretty words, maybe. We'll see how well that works when I choke the words right out of his throat."
[12:34] *** Inkwell has joined #celestialdeliberative
[12:34] * Nomoe_Hideaki ignores that comment and merely continues walking toward the site at a leisurely pace
[12:35] <Brazen_Sand> "Oh hey Inkwell." Brazen says, nodding at the other Infernal. "I didn't notice you there."
[12:36] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby follows Nomoe as she shakes her head at Brazen. Though he had a lot of hot air, she was content to wait for a threat before questioning his ability.
[12:36] <Inkwell> "I was being very quiet. There was this book, you see. Very absorbing."
[12:36] * Lady_Daethia continues down the street stopping off at any stalls for a moment that they happen come by.
[12:37] <Brazen_Sand> "What book was that?"
[12:37] * Noldarr misses his horse.
[12:38] <Inkwell> "The Book of Essence Runes. Quite rare these days."
[12:38] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen continues to play the part of a bodyguard, constantly scanning the area for threats and looking potentially threatening. Not very difficult for him to do. When one of his "clients" started looking at stalls, for example, he's turn the other way to make sure that he was able to watch their backs.
[12:41] <Inkwell> "These little pamphlets are full of nasty magic, by the by. Did you notice?"
[12:41] <Brazen_Sand> "Yeah, fucking pathetic"
[12:41] * Inkwell reads a pamphlet carefully.
[12:41] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen didn't feel like mentioning that he had almost been taken in. If it hadn't been for his might with essence, he would've been affected.
[12:43] <Lady_Daethia> "were here to look at the sights not bury our noses in books!" She declares as she leans across Snatching the book from Inkwell and tooking it under her own arm.
[12:43] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Ambassador," Nomoe Hideaki addresses Inkwell with stiff formality. "Can you determine whether this was perpretrated by an Akuma or an Infernal?"
[12:44] <Inkwell> "There's Terrestrial magic involved in that pamphlet as well as Ebon Dragon Charms. It could be a joint effort, of course, but an akuma is very likely."
[12:46] <Inkwell> "...hm, I don't remember the Mouth of Peace having such a magnificent figure. I'll have to perform some measurements when I return."
[12:46] * Nomoe_Hideaki nods curtly. Nothing new there. If his Charm didn't tell him that the Malfean ambassador wasn't holding out on him ...
[12:46] <Brazen_Sand> "Good luck with that."
[12:46] <Brazen_Sand> Said incredulously
[12:47] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby raises an eyebrow at Inkwell with a soft look of surprise
[12:47] <Inkwell> "We would do well to destroy as many of these as we can. I also advise that each of us avoids looking at them, unless you possess mental defense magic."
[12:48] <Noldarr> "How should we destroy them?"
[12:48] * Noldarr looks incredulously at his sword.
[12:48] <Brazen_Sand> "we can't waste time picking up litter, that's ridiculous!"
[12:49] <Brazen_Sand> "We need to cut out the source."
[12:49] <Inkwell> "Ripping them up should work. They aren't true artifacts, just enchanted gimcrackery. Or you could use sorcery, but that's a bit flashy."
[12:50] <Brazen_Sand> "Anyway, let's get moving, I'm getting antsy just standing here and I've seen enough Scourges to not be comfortable with that feeling"
[13:01] <@Taurus_II> You reach the area square where the battle took place, an empty square of rooftop between a hostel and a teashop.
[13:01] <Brazen_Sand> huh
[13:01] <@Taurus_II> ((everything is on rooftop in Lap))
[13:02] * Inkwell Inkwell continues to read the demonic bible, only vaguely paying attention to his surroundings. He walks exactly five steps behind Brazen Sand, keeping perfect time, but not really watching where he's going otherwise.
[13:05] * Nomoe_Hideaki has his servants put up a small stool and hold a parasol for him, while under the guise of needing a bit of rest he examines the area with his essence sight
[13:06] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked around the roof-top, he had a bad feeling about this place somehow. The pleasant sea-breezes had a tinge of...DANGER
[13:06] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby looks about the area as she slowly wanders from seemingly random points between one end and Nomoe Hideaki.
[13:11] * Lady_Daethia scans the area as they arrive she wasnt one for investigation leaving it to her peers to take care of it as she took in the sights.
[13:11] * Noldarr pretended to admire his blade as he searched the area off the reflection of the immaculately-polished steel.
[13:12] * Nomoe_Hideaki sips a bit of water in the shade
[13:14] <Inkwell> "Hm, I was wrong."
[13:15] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby looks to Inkwell with a raised eyebrow.
[13:15] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Wrong?"
[13:15] <Inkwell> "This pamphlet isn't the work of an akuma, but of a Green Sun Prince. You can see it in the way the lines waver here where he's discussing the Deliberative."
[13:16] <Noldarr> "What does that imply?"
[13:16] <Inkwell> "Not an akuma mindset at all. This is the work of a man out to spread chaos, who's been tasked with the dual purpose of undermining the Deliberative."
[13:16] * Brazen_Sand just raises an eyebrow "And how can you tell just from a line that's wavering?"
[13:17] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby frowns slightly and returns to the others. "A very dangerous adversary then."
[13:17] <Inkwell> "It's fairly obvious if you've studied calligraphy. Do you see, Deliberator Nomoe?"
[13:17] * Inkwell points at the perfectly obvious psych indicators for the benefit of the other Linguistics-monkey.
[13:17] <Noldarr> "If it is a Green Sun Prince, we should be wary - but we are not the only ones who should beware."
[13:18] * Noldarr narrows his eyes.
[13:18] * Noldarr really hopes the Nightingale isn't around here.
[13:18] * Nomoe_Hideaki tilts his head slightly. "Yes. Interesting." He pauses a moment, then continues. "You spoke of a dual purpose but mentioned only one, namely to undermine the Deliberative.
[13:18] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "
[13:19] <Brazen_Sand> "...riiiight." Brazen responded, not really believing it.
[13:20] <Inkwell> "The other being an internal desire to spread chaos, overlaid by an ophidian imperative to undermine us."
[13:21] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Thank you, ambassador." Hideaki's tone is very formal as always when speaking to Inkwell. He raises an eyebrow. "Us?"
[13:22] <Inkwell> "I am a member of the Deliberative, as you know."
[13:22] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "In any case, it doesn't look as if a battle has taken place here. Certainly not one involving a Solar Exalt. Faint demonic essence residue, though. And probably a whole pile of those ... things."
[13:24] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby nods and turn to the Tea house watching Brazen. "So further attempts to increase trust in the populace while decreasing ours."
[13:25] <@Taurus_II> The teahouse is only half-full. The pamphlets - perhaps a dozen or so are left - are stacked neatly on an otherwise empty table, weighed down with a small, oddly shaped pewter paperweight. A glint of gold catches his eye from the depression in the center.
[13:26] <@Taurus_II> There is also a quintet of Immaculate monks in one corner, quietly enjoying a meal together.
[13:26] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen turned to the proprieter of the teahouse and spoke to him
[13:26] * Nomoe_Hideaki inclines his head slightly but does not reply to Inkwell.
[13:26] <Brazen_Sand> He used all his politeness and social savvy to get information.
[13:26] <@Taurus_II> ((Oh god))
[13:26] * Brazen_Sand clears his throat
[13:27] <Brazen_Sand> "Can you tell me who left those pamphlets?"
[13:27] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Shall we leave him to his devices," Shadow Phoenix Ruby says pointing to the tea house.
[13:27] <Brazen_Sand> (See, he is being VERY courteous and polite)
[13:27] <@Taurus_II> ((oh phew. :P ))
[13:27] * Nomoe_Hideaki sighs at Shadow Phoenix Ruby's words. "An oversight. He shouldn't have been allowed to go and speak."
[13:27] * Noldarr nods. "Surely he can take care of himself."
[13:27] <Brazen_Sand> (he speaks in Firetongue, btw.)
[13:29] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "I see," she says softly now looking worriedly to the Tea House, "Then perhaps I shall go and observe his behavior and the results of his efforts."
[13:30] <@Taurus_II> The proprietor looks at him, a little suspicious. [Firetongue] "Why do you want to know?"
[13:32] * Brazen_Sand thinks to himself. He usually considered lying beneath him, but he wasn't *stupid*, and he was actually quite good at shifting emotions. "Because I want to help whoever is writing them. My family was killed by a raging Anathema back when I lived in the Great Southern Desert. I had to come here with nothing but the rags on my shoulders because of that demon. if it wasn't
[13:32] * Brazen_Sand for the Immaculate Monks that found me on the way, I would have surely died of thirst. I would do anything to repay that debt."
[13:32] <Brazen_Sand> He said, making his anger at that great injustice in his past clear on his face.
[13:33] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Well, the hound has entered the warren now. Nothing to do but to wait and see what it flushes out."
[13:36] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby nods then and waits for awhile she regards Inkwell with a soft frown.
[13:36] * Nomoe_Hideaki has his stool relocated slightly so he can keep an eye on both exits of the tea house
[13:43] <@Taurus_II> The proprietor nods along with Brazen's story, takes a careful look around the teahouse, and nods his head in the direction of the monks. "One of them brings 'em. Not often, though. Only every few weeks."
[13:43] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen smiled. "Thank you." He said
[13:43] <Brazen_Sand> He walked to the others who had been watching him. Nomoe and Ruby. "I assume you heard what he said?"
[13:44] <@Taurus_II> The proprietor watches him go oddly, and the monks quietly get up to follow him.
[13:46] <@Taurus_II> But first, they collect their weapons.
[13:46] * Lady_Daethia Turns looking toward the teahouse as Brazen Leaves checking for any tails he may have gained.
[13:47] * Nomoe_Hideaki sips his water and gives Brazen Sand a measured look, waiting for him to report on what he must presume was a success given his choice of words.
[13:48] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby raises an eyebrow and regards him and then watches behind him.
[13:48] <Brazen_Sand> "One of the monks in the teahouse brings them there every few weeks." He said in Old Realm.
[13:50] <Brazen_Sand> As Brazen left, he noticed the proprieter nodding at teh monks, just out of the corner of his eye. He sniffed bemusedly. That's what he got for being polite, eh? Oh well, he thought as he walked the paved road to his associates, I'll manage.
[13:53] <@Taurus_II> The monks soon emerge from the teahouse, each carrying a jade weapon appropriate to their Elemental aspect, save the Air Aspect, who bears not chakrams but a pair of blue jade smashfists.
[13:54] <Inkwell> I am paying just enough attention to decide that now is a good time to activate So Speaks She Who.
[13:54] <Brazen_Sand> "Oh by the way, they're following me now, with weapons. We should probably keep them alive to figure out which."
[13:55] <Brazen_Sand> He notes, pointing a thumb over his shoulder.
[13:55] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby shakes her head at him.
[13:55] * Noldarr limbers up.
[13:55] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "It stands to reason that the Infernal would be working with them," Nomoe Hideaki says to Ruby.
[13:55] <Brazen_Sand> "Of course. They're the ones dropping off the pamphlets."
[13:56] * Brazen_Sand rolled his shoulders and loosened his neck muscles from side to side, getting ready for a fight.
[13:56] <Inkwell> "Or they're simply dupes. No real student of the Ebon Dragon would actually hang around to put himself in danger."
[13:56] <Nomoe_Hideaki> Then, as the five monks ... Dragonblooded monks ... come out of the tea house he frowns. "Well, he did flush them out. That's something, I guess."
[13:56] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Not ideal by any measure, but ..." He shrugs lightly.
[13:57] <@Taurus_II> The Wood Aspect begins moving away, down the row of rooftops; the Air Aspect remains in the doorway; the Earth, Fire, and Water Aspects approach.
[13:57] * Brazen_Sand sighs.
[13:57] <@Taurus_II> "That was a interesting story you told inside," the Fire aspect says to Brazen.
[13:57] <@Taurus_II> an*
[13:58] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby turns to the moving monks and grants each of them a gentle smile.
[13:58] * Brazen_Sand nodded and smiled. "I owe a lot to the Immaculate Order."
[14:00] * Lady_Daethia deciding to wait she avoids pulling her bow simply observing as they approach
[14:00] <Brazen_Sand> "Perhaps it was one of your fathers that saved me?"
[14:01] <Inkwell> "I like the linework on your little pamphlets," says Inkwell dreamily. "It takes a light hand on the writing brush to do that kind of work."
[14:03] <@Taurus_II> "I can't help wondering, though." the fire aspect continues, "why when the owner told you what you wanted to know, you came straight out here to tell your friends. It looks a little suspicious."
[14:04] <@Taurus_II> The monks are holding their weapons at ease, not overtly threatening with them.
[14:04] <Brazen_Sand> "Because they're my clients. They are just tourists. You know how these rich folk are, they don't know anything outside their pretty little estates." He said, laughing at a joke on the foreigners. "They were curious about the pamphlets, and I decided I'd find out mroe for myself while I was here."
[14:06] <Nomoe_Hideaki> As the Dragonblooded come over toward him Nomoe Hideaki gives his water back to a servant, stands up and motions for them to pack the various amenities away. Mindful of his disguise he gives the Dragonblooded a polite - if considering the difference in rank between supposed mortal and Exalted inappropriately shallow - bow.
[14:06] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby resists crossing her arms while Brazen talks while she is unable to understand him and instead mutters to herself about the abundance of languages.
[14:07] * Lady_Daethia fans herself giving a light curtsy to the monks. She didnt like it but they were meant to be "disguised"
[14:11] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Yes, we do have a lot of languages in creation," Hideaki smiles. "I have never seen the need to learn Firetongue myself, though perhaps I should take the effort at some point."
[14:12] <@Taurus_II> They look mollified, slightly. "Do your clients speak Firetongue?"
[14:13] <Inkwell> "I speak many languages. Languages are fun, don't you agree? Flametongue is amusing because of all the different terms it has for metallurgical subjects."
[14:13] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen sighed. "He's one of my colleagues. He's a guide, while I am a bodyguard."
[14:13] * Noldarr continues to admire his sword
[14:14] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "I may have to endeavor to learn them all. I do not like being unable to understand others." She says with a soft sigh and a small smile to the language experts.
[14:14] <Brazen_Sand> "The others don't speak Firetongue. So they hired us."
[14:14] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "It is somewhat aggravating, that's true."
[14:15] <Brazen_Sand> "They are even now complaining about how the yammering of the locals is so coarse compared to their language." Brazen mentioned with a "what're you gonna do?" shrug
[14:15] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Even more so if you have already invested an effort into learning X languages, to need an X+1th language ..."
[14:16] <Brazen_Sand> "quiet." Brazen said to them in Old Realm.
[14:16] * Nomoe_Hideaki ignores that.
[14:18] <@Taurus_II> "Hmmm. Then you - and you if you wish," the Fire aspect adds to Inkwell, still speaking in Firetongue, "should meet us here tonight. Will an hour after dusk be sufficient time for your clients to be settled in for the night?"
[14:18] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby raises an eyebrow at Brazen Sand.
[14:18] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen nodded. "Oh yes, we'll be sure to tuck them into bed and make sure they are well-cared for."
[14:19] <Inkwell> "They sleep like little babies," Inkwell adds. "The sleep of the unjust."
[14:22] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby sighs and begins to look bored.
[14:23] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "What are the Princes of the Earth saying," Hideaki asks Inkwell in Riverspeak, still playing his role.
[14:24] <Inkwell> "They are reminding us to visit the Immaculate temples of the Lap as a part of our travels," says Inkwell. "We musn't neglect our religious obligations."
[14:25] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Ah. Well. I'll have someone make a note."
[14:25] <Lady_Daethia> "We will make sure to give them a visit" She smiles quaintly at this. She had no such intentions but they didnt know that.
[14:25] <@Taurus_II> The monks raise their eyebrows at Inkwell. "All right. We'll let you be on your way, then. Our apologies for the show of force."
[14:26] <Noldarr> "Are the immaculates against killing on principle?" Noldarr asks foppishly as the monks walk away.
[14:26] <@Taurus_II> They retreat back into the teahouse.
[14:26] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen bowed respectfully. "No offense taken, we must all be wary these days with teh Anathema returned in force."
[14:28] <Brazen_Sand> After they leave, Brazen is slightly disappointed. "I had hoped they would've tried something."
[14:29] <Lady_Daethia> "Well i see it as suspicious enough they want to meet tonight they may try something then."
[14:29] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby nods slightly at that and finds herself embarrased to agree with Brazen Sand's sentiment, she turns her back after a moment and sighs to herself.
[14:29] <Brazen_Sand> "Oh I'm sure they will."
[14:29] * Noldarr is relieved he won't have to actually use his blade for now.
[14:29] <Brazen_Sand> He said with a grin
[14:30] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "And now, what did they really say, ambassador?" Hideaki asks.
[14:32] <Inkwell> "They want Brazen Sand and myself to meet them later, after you sleep."
[14:33] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Interesting. To murder you or to induct you into their little movement?"
[14:34] * Brazen_Sand shrugged casually. If they try, they'll die.
[14:34] <Brazen_Sand> "If they try, they'll die."
[14:34] <Lady_Daethia> "im sure that will be apparent when they meet."
[14:35] <Noldarr> "Harm to our persons is a rather low possibility, in any event."
[14:35] <Noldarr> "It is the citizens of the Lap I am concerned with."
[14:35] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Either way, we'll want to thoroughly question them to find their Infernal ally. So there will be no killing."
[14:35] <Noldarr> "If this escalates, I do not want the people here harmed."
[14:36] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby nods emphatically.
[14:36] * Brazen_Sand waved a hand impatiently. "Yes yes, I don't harm any innocents."
[14:38] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Well as it stands now we have a time and place to get further information. What shall we do until then?"
[14:42] <Brazen_Sand> "Find a contact on our side, I guess."
[14:43] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Wait," Hideaki proposes. "We have come here to determine whether the report of Solars murdered was accurate. It was not. What's left is to roll up the resistance operation from the ground up. And that is best begun with fewer witnesses around."
[14:44] <@Taurus_II> A scruffy man in dirty clothes wanders down the street.
[14:45] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby quickly notices the scruffy man and tracks him as she stands there while they talk. "So we need to find a place that is not frequented as much?"
[14:47] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Proper accomodations," Hideaki nods.
[14:47] <Inkwell> I observe him with Essence sight. Oh hay it is a dragon.
[14:48] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "And we should leave here lest we make them suspicious."
[14:48] <@Taurus_II> Assuming those with essence sight take the time to look at him, they will note that he is an essence-channeler, Fire-aspected - but not as a Terrestrial Exalt's essence would be.
[14:48] <@Taurus_II> More like a God-blood.
[14:51] * Brazen_Sand wrinkles his nose at the smelly bum.
[14:51] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Let's find a proper one then. We'll likely cause people to question our reason for being here if we dally."
[14:51] <Brazen_Sand> "Yeah, let's get out of here."
[14:52] * Lady_Daethia turns the fan and wafts away from herself blowing the odor away from her vicinity.
[14:52] <Noldarr> Well, after we are 'out of here,' I will ask lilac to set up a meeting for us with luyu
[14:52] <Noldarr> unless we are not doing that anymore
[14:52] * Nomoe_Hideaki briefly looks at the godblooded in dirty clothes before shaking his head and spearheading the effort to find a place suited to their status as rich mortals.
[14:52] <@Taurus_II> The bum smiles at you. "Alms?" he asks hopefully, holding out a cupped palm.
[14:53] * Noldarr gives him some dinars.
[14:53] * Brazen_Sand gives him a coin. "Yeah sure."
[14:53] <Brazen_Sand> "Yeah, fine, whoever Lilac is."
[14:53] * Inkwell gives him a purse full of gold. I can always shape more later.
[14:54] * Nomoe_Hideaki speaks briefly to a servant, who then approaches the man, gives him a small coin and asks him where his divine blood comes from and whether he'd like a regular job rather than being reduced to begging.
[14:54] <@Taurus_II> The man's jaw falls open at Inkwell's generosity. "Thank you, kind sir!" he exclaims. "Let me repay your generosity."
[14:54] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Very generous of the lot of you," Ruby says with wide eyes especially at Inkwell's generousity.
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[14:55] * Brazen_Sand shrugs. "I've got everything I need. no need to hoard more of it."
[14:55] * Noldarr sees no need to justify a small kindness.
[14:55] * Nomoe_Hideaki makes to leave
[14:55] <Inkwell> "Why, thank you, I love pillows."
[14:56] <@Taurus_II> The hobo moves his free hand through the air, flame and light trailing from it as he weaves essence into a small pillow. "How did you know? Have I given you one before?" he laughs through crooked teeth, then peers at Inkwell.
[14:56] <@Taurus_II> "I think I would remember you, though."
[14:56] <Inkwell> "I just know a lot about pllows! Aren't pillows great?"
[14:57] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby follows Nomoe Hideaki giving the others a glance.
[14:57] <@Taurus_II> "They are," the hobo agrees, offering the pillow to Inkwell. "These are called tamashi."
[14:58] <Brazen_Sand> "They're very nice." Brazen mutters, while nudging Inkwell and glancing towards the others who're leaving.
[14:59] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "Its honestly the people of this City's fault for not supporting that man. After all if he doesn't work the city's efficiency falters," she tells Nomoe Hideaki matter-of-factly.
[14:59] <Inkwell> "So adorable!"
[15:00] * Lady_Daethia noting the others starting to leave she follows suit not paticularly intrested at the Hobos spectacle.
[15:00] <@Taurus_II> The tamashi coos some more, happily.
[15:00] <@Taurus_II> The hobo nods and begins to move away...
[15:00] <Inkwell> "Have I met you before somewhere, perhaps in different shape?"
[15:00] * Noldarr turns to Shadow Phoenix. "It is unfortunate that the people of this city are not a singular entity and are not capable of truly making that decision."
[15:00] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Maybe. I've had my servant ask him whether he wanted regular work." Hideaki shrugs. "He's a godblooded of some sort, unless he wants it he shouldn't be reduced to begging. And I can use servants of power."
[15:01] <Inkwell> While his head is turned, I do a 'This is important' head-jerk at the others.
[15:01] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen stops and shakes his head in irritation, but is willing to humour the little weirdo
[15:01] <@Taurus_II> "I don't think so..." the hobo answers slowly.
[15:02] * Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby tugs gently on Nomoe Hideaki's sleeve and points to Inkwell who's head motion indicates they might want to wait.
[15:02] <Inkwell> "Your Essence pattern is unusual, even for a lesser elemental dragon. What brings you here?"
[15:03] <@Taurus_II> "What?
[15:03] <@Taurus_II> "
[15:03] <Shadow_Phoenix_Ruby> "I think he thinks something interesting is happening or is going to happen," Ruby says shaking her head slightly.
[15:03] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen's eyes widen. "Yeah, what?!"
[15:03] * Nomoe_Hideaki turns along with Ruby. "Is that so?"
[15:04] <Brazen_Sand> "Uh guys, he just said that the hobo was an elemental dragon"
[15:04] * Lady_Daethia overhearing inkwells announcement she turns back looking quite intrigued.
[15:04] * Noldarr quickly walks up and whispers to Sand. "We're making a scene that we shouldn't be able to make."
[15:04] <Inkwell> "I can see it written in your Essence. Why have you disguised yourself so?"
[15:04] * Inkwell isn't considering the possibility of a scene, so somebody may want to take this indoors.
[15:04] <Noldarr> "Rich tourists are not capable of identifying elemental dragons..."
[15:04] <Brazen_Sand> "Don't look at me? I'm not the one talking to him."
[15:04] <Brazen_Sand> (Also, he's speaking Old Realm)
[15:05] <Noldarr> "We need to move this quickly before Inkwell breaks the disguise or whatever."
[15:05] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "An elemental dragon?" At Inkwells words Hideaki frowns. "Well, that explains why doesn't want to work for me. He already has a job."
[15:05] <@Taurus_II> "Disguise? There is no disguise. The Mendicant is what he is... isn't that right?" he adds, directing his gaze up to the massive statue of the Penitent. He looks back down at Inkwell. "There, you see?"
[15:07] <Inkwell> "If you say so.
[15:08] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "In any case, it is mildly interesting. Not very relevant to our task, though. In fact endangering it if they cause a scene here." Hideaki sighs.
[15:08] * Brazen_Sand shrugs
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[15:10] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Deliberators, Ambassador, Infernal. Are you about done there?"
[15:11] <Inkwell> "I'm uncertain," whispers Inkwell to Nomoe. "Is this a case of intrigue or of medicine?"
[15:11] <Lady_Daethia> she shrugs looking to Namoe "they seem pretty engrossed"
[15:11] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "It's a case of you being dreadfully impolite to the good man here who wishes to stay incognito as far as I can see."
[15:11] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "As, I remind you, are we."
[15:12] <Brazen_Sand> "I thought you guys were supposed to be all heroic."
[15:12] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "And I though an ambassador should know something of being polite. Oh well."
[15:12] <Nomoe_Hideaki> *thought
[15:12] * Inkwell blushes at this criticism.
[15:12] <Noldarr> "Something's off here," Noldarr whispers to hideaki. "No sane infiltrator would go around begging and then create magical pillows out of the ether."
[15:13] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Is that so?" Hideaki's tone is carefully neutral.
[15:14] <Brazen_Sand> "Oh come on, even I've heard of this guy." Brazen said. "He's been here for decades."
[15:15] * Noldarr approaches the strange creature-hobo. "I've always wanted to learn what life is like for these underclasses. Friend Mendicant, would you do our party the favor of accompanying us around this most entertaining city of yours?"
[15:20] <@Taurus_II> The Mendicant hesitates, then nods. "Yes, yes, of course. The Mendicant will be happy to show you around the Penitent's Lap. You'll find no better guide than me," he says in Firetongue, adding in Old Realm, "for I recall when Meru decreed its building."
[15:21] * Brazen_Sand nudged Nomoe on the elbow. "Come on, we've got time to cure a hobo before things go to shit."
[15:22] <@Taurus_II> The Mendicant begins heading off, leading you around the city...
[15:22] <Inkwell> Suddenly, in an exclusive club, Inkwell pokes the Mendicant, immediately perceiving all Shaping and Crippling effects now affecting him!
[15:22] * Nomoe_Hideaki dodges the Infernals touch
[15:22] <Inkwell> Ohay it is a derangement.
[15:23] <Inkwell> "Don't be afraid," I say, not that it will help, as I remove it.
[15:23] * Lady_Daethia she sighs but begins to follow along with the rest of the group
[15:23] <Inkwell> This is going to take about an hour.
[15:23] <@Taurus_II> "What are you doing?"
[15:23] <Brazen_Sand> "Well, it's not like we have anything better to do."
[15:24] <Noldarr> "Don't mind him, friend mendicant, he is a little strange. Now, you were telling us about the magnificent properties of the sunset over the Lap..."
[15:24] * Nomoe_Hideaki meanwhile is taking a bath
[15:29] * Brazen_Sand takes a bath in the same place as Nomoe
[15:30] <@Taurus_II> An hour passes peacefully.
[15:30] * Noldarr takes a drink of water to soothe his vocal cords.
[15:31] <Noldarr> "Inkwell," he whispers, leaning over, "is this going to take terribly longer?"
[15:32] <Inkwell> "....something probably should have happened by now."
[15:32] <Inkwell> Why aren't my derangements reversing?
[15:32] <@Taurus_II> <.<
[15:32] <@Taurus_II> >.>
[15:33] <Nomoe_Hideaki> After the bath he writes a missive to the two Exalted Deliberators of Lap, in beautiful calligraphy. He briefly outlines the reason for their presence - follow-up on the supposed Solar killing and other matters pertaining to Creation Security - and apologizes for the need to keep their presence a secret as well as their failure to present themselves to the Deliberators in person.
[15:33] <Nomoe_Hideaki> If desired they will of course meet with the Deliberators in a private location. The tone of the letter is equisitely polite.
[15:34] <@Taurus_II> The Mendicant falls silent, then lets out a long breath. "Thank you. I have been of unsound mind for a very, very long time."
[15:34] <Inkwell> "I know how that feels," says Inkwell, sympathetically.
[15:35] * Brazen_Sand chats with Launjilla and Daethia
[15:35] * Noldarr clears his throat. "I take it that the problem was resolved? Superb. Now, would someone mind explaining to me exactly what just happened?"
[15:36] * Nomoe_Hideaki hires a reliable courier service to take the sealed letter to the Deliberators
[15:36] <Nomoe_Hideaki> I'm warning you.
[15:36] <@Taurus_II> "My name is Swan Dragon, Censor of the... well. Former Censor of the South. I suppose by now they have appointed a new one, so long have I been gone."
[15:37] <Nomoe_Hideaki> After that Hideaki looks in on the others.
[15:37] * Noldarr 's eyes widen. "Incredible. So that was your true identity...how were you reduced to such a diminished form for such a span of time?"
[15:38] * Brazen_Sand gets up to join them, staying back to not interfere with the discussion. He has a feeling this moment is...sacred, somehow, in a way that his former-masters could never understand.
[15:40] <@Taurus_II> "When the raksha poured in upon the world - the first time, that is - I went to fight them, and fell." His voice and eyes harden. "The fae took me, and upon me heaped such torments as..." he flinches away from the memory.
[15:40] <Brazen_Sand> "Cruel masters, there are far too many of them, aren't there?"
[15:40] * Noldarr nods sympathetically. "Nysela spoke to me of you, once. Your loss was much mourned, at least in the corridors of the Daystar."
[15:40] * Nomoe_Hideaki enters as the man speaks of the Raksha
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[15:43] <Inkwell> "It's amazing that you survived for so long."
[15:43] <Nomoe_Hideaki> He remains quiet but at the mention of the Fae and their ways his expression becomes more mask-like than usual.
[15:43] <Noldarr> "Inkwell, you have done a good thing here today."
[15:44] * Brazen_Sand nods
[15:44] <Inkwell> "We were lucky to have encountered him."
[15:44] <Inkwell> "Well, luck, or fate could have brought him. Fate is funny like that."
[15:45] * Brazen_Sand maybe he found us.
[15:45] <Noldarr> "Fate..."
[15:45] * Noldarr looks around for Lilac
[15:46] <@Taurus_II> Swan Dragon smiles. "Thank you for restoring me. For now, I must leave, but I am in your debt, Lawgivers and whatever else you are. Tell me your names, so that should you need my assistance in the future, I will know to listen for your prayers."
[15:46] <Inkwell> Inkwell smiles and says, "I am Viridian Inkwell, Ambassador to the Exiles from the Celestial Deliberative, and Chosen of She Who Lives in Her Name."
[15:46] <Inkwell> <beat>
[15:47] <Brazen_Sand> "I am Brazen Sand, Lord and Ruler of Gem and former peer of the Demon Realm."
[15:47] * Noldarr shakes his hand. "I am Noldarr, Chosen of the Unconquered Sun."
[15:48] * Nomoe_Hideaki bows. "I am Nomoe Hideaki, Deliberator of the Celestial Deliberative and Princeps of Sanken. I had no part in your restoration, I should add, though."
[15:49] <@Taurus_II> At Inkwell's words, the scruffy man is no more. In its place stands a dragon of flame, still small enough to not destroy the building, but bigger than any man. "Chosen of the Yozis?" Swan roars. "In company with Lawgivers?"
[15:50] * Brazen_Sand puts a hand up. "Easy. Things have changed."
[15:50] <Inkwell> "Indeed," says Inkwell calmly, displaying his caste mark. "The Yozis chose me. The Yozis did, and not the Sun, and I for one will not condemn them for doing so. Nor will I condemn myself."
[15:50] <Nomoe_Hideaki> Hideaki's tone does not change. "Regrettably the Celestial Deliberative has accepted his diplomatic status as ambassador."
[15:51] * Nomoe_Hideaki lets his Eclipse Castemark show
[15:51] <Brazen_Sand> "I was chosen by the Yozis, but I left of my own accord. They have no hold over me, and I stand upon my own two legs."
[15:52] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "I may not like it, but the Deliberative has spoken. The ambassador is with me."
[15:52] <@Taurus_II> "Hnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn...
[15:52] <@Taurus_II> "
[15:52] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "The other Infernal is not, formally, with me."
[15:52] <Brazen_Sand> "Me and the Deliberative have an understanding."
[15:52] * Noldarr looks Swan Dragon in the eye. "As you said yourself, Swan, it has been a long time since you were gone."
[15:53] <@Taurus_II> Swan almost-growls. "Explain. How did the Yozis come to have their own Exalted? And how did there come to be a Celestial Deliberative? What has happened?"
[15:53] <Brazen_Sand> "I'm here with them by the request of the Deliberative."
[15:54] <Noldarr> "And yet, for all the many centuries since that time, the threats to Creation today are no less dire..." Noldarr regards the Infernals. "But they are not threats to Creation."
[15:54] <Brazen_Sand> "well, not us personally." Brazen added
[15:56] <Inkwell> "As for the Yozi Exaltations, the Yozis and Neverborn collaborated to steal the Solar Exaltations locked away by the Sidereals. They corrupted one hundred into Abyssal Exaltations, improved fifty into Primordial Exaltations, and somehow lost the other 150, setting them free to do as they have always done."
[15:58] <@Taurus_II> "Improved," Swan mutters. "That explains a little... but what about the rest. How long has there been a Deliberative? The last government I recall is a succession of feuding Terrestrial Shoguns."
[15:58] <Noldarr> "Many of the Infernal and Abyssal Exalted are Creation's enemies. I count the deliberative lucky that, among them, we have at least some friends. But the history of a thousand years is not easily condensed into a single conversation."
[15:58] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "For about ten years now. There is still some ... resistance in certain parts of Creation."
[15:58] <Brazen_Sand> "Like here, for instance."
[15:59] <Noldarr> "Perhaps it would be best to seek out my moth- Nysela for a more comprehensive history, she is rather lonely in the Daystar by herself and could use a visit, especially from an old friend.
[15:59] <Brazen_Sand> "One of our 'fellow' Infernal Exalts are spreading pamphlets that are corrupting teh populace."
[15:59] <Noldarr> Do give her my regards as well."
[16:00] <@Taurus_II> That makes Swan stare. "Nysela is your mother? I thought she had eyes only for the Sun."
[16:00] <Noldarr> "Foster mother, of a sort."
[16:01] <Brazen_Sand> "Yeah, I kinda met her too" brazen said.
[16:01] <Brazen_Sand> "But not like that."
[16:04] <@Taurus_II> "I see. Well, that is a good suggestion, I believe I shall do that." Now a man again - though no longer so dirty - Swan Dragon bows to Noldarr and Nomoe - and, grudgingly, to Inkwell. "Farewell."
[16:05] <Noldarr> "I hope to see you again soon. Farewell."
[16:05] <Inkwell> Inkwell bows formally in return, carefully not showing any offense.
[16:05] * Nomoe_Hideaki bows in return.
[16:05] * Brazen_Sand nods slowly
[16:06] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Interesting," Hideaki comments after the dragon is gone.
[16:07] <Noldarr> "Well, that went about as well as could be expected. I do hope that he brings some semblance of order to the Terrestial Courts...if he is instated as censor again, he could be a valuable ally in our investigation."
[16:09] <Brazen_Sand> "yeah sure, whatever. So long as he doesn't interfere with my kingdom"
[16:09] <Nomoe_Hideaki> "Let us hope we will not be reduced to that. We do have a good lead that may well be sufficient to bring this whole resistance cell down."
[16:13] <Brazen_Sand> "I guess there's nothign to do but wait till night."
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