Dawn of the Third Age/IC Logs/Session 16
Session Start (Anshu:#celestialdeliberative): Fri Jan 07 10:29:19 2011 -0700
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[10:29] *** Topic on #celestialdeliberative is: Exalted: Dawn of the Third Age
[10:29] *** Topic set by dakkareth (5 hours ago at 5:35 AM)
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[11:21] <Anshu> It has been two months since your defeat of the Lunar Running Thunder. His trial is nearing its conclusion, and the Deliberative's legions are holding back the remaining hordes of Ma-Ha-Suchi. Brazen Sand has invited you to visit Gem and escape the cold of the winter seasons while attending a festival in honor of his alliance with the Deliberative.
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[11:26] *** dakkareth is now known as Nomoe_Hideaki
[11:26] <Anshu> It has been two months since your defeat of the Lunar Running Thunder. His trial is nearing its conclusion, and the Deliberative's legions are holding back the remaining hordes of Ma-Ha-Suchi. Brazen Sand has invited you to visit Gem and escape the cold of the winter seasons while attending a festival in honor of his alliance with the Deliberative.
[11:27] <Brazen_Sand> As the visitors from the Deliberative near the gates of Gem, exquisitely detailed dancers of flame explode into the air, arcing around the night air (considered the appropriate time for large social gatherings in Gem), while balls of green and blue light dance around the streets surrounding the inverted mountain that is Gem.
[11:29] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Although much of Nomoe's time is taken up by negotiations as complicated as they are secret and Sanken ever profits from his presence and guiding hand it would be impolite to refuse Brazen Sand's invitation considering the events of the past season.
[11:30] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> And so an airship displaying the mon of House Nomoe has arrived at Gem the evening before the festival bearing Nomoe Hideaki himself along with the obligatory entourage.
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[11:33] <Bright_Snow> Bright Snow has travelled to the city on Triumph, and incognito walks through the city observing, enjoying walking amongst its people. She notes customs, heirarchies and cultural tropes to herself, curious at the society Brazen has created.
[11:35] <Brazen_Sand> The people of Gem dance and celebrate, some of them eating the locusts of Cecylene, each of which taste different depending on who eats them.
[11:37] <Brazen_Sand> Water is sprayed everywhere from pipes installed in fountains that now dot the top of Gem, fed by the Sapphire Lake that had been Wyld-shaped by the Deliberative for the use of those living in Gem
[11:41] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> On the day of the festival Nomoe Hideaki, a radiant figure of grace and majesty in his feastday robes, walks the streets of Gem his entourage behind him. His path takes him here and there without clear destination, for Brazen has apparently neglected to properly plan his celebration.
[11:42] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> His servants will notify him of any important developments he might miss thereby - or so it is hoped.
[11:42] <Brazen_Sand> As Nomoe enters the city, an explosion of green fire appears in the sky above the centre of Gem, burning like a massive green star, yet giving off no heat.
[11:44] <Brazen_Sand> As it burns down, the figure of Brazen Sand, resplendant with every one of his scales capped with it's own gleaming gem, standing upon Launjilla like a surfboard in flight. As his wings stretch out ot their full length, bursts of green flame flash from within his body.
[11:44] <Brazen_Sand> The citizens of Gem cheer their king, their god, as his steed slowly descends onto the ground in front of Nomoe.
[11:45] <Brazen_Sand> He gets off and laughs heartily, pointing and raising his arms at his cheering subjects, feeding off of their enthusiasm
[11:45] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> The banners and pennants in his wake are inscribed with his various titles, honours and accomplishments. Their breath-taking calligraphy burns the glory of Nomoe Hideaki, Princeps of House Nomoe and de-facto ruler of Sanken deep into their hearts, cementing the impression of his divine self.
[11:45] <Anshu> A few revelers approach Nomoe, offering necklaces of small, semiprecious gemstones - purple amethysts and green garnets, bowing low to him and to their king.
[11:45] <Brazen_Sand> "HIDEAKI-SAN, MY FRIEND!" He shouts cheerfully, "HOW GOOD OF YOU TO COME!"
[11:46] <Brazen_Sand> "BUT WHERE IS YOUR MATE, WHERE IS BRIGHT SNOW?"
[11:47] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Servants receive the presents for Nomoe, who himselfs gives thanks with regal nods and gestures.
[11:49] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> At Brazen Sand's greeting he hesitates an almost imperceptible split-second - he had not offered the Infernal to call him by his given name, but here in public he can't make an issue of it without shaming Brazen Sand - before bowing in greeting.
[11:50] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen grinned at this small yet significant victory and bowed in return
[11:52] <Brazen_Sand> "COME, COME, ENJOY THE FESTIVITIES, WE DON'T REALLY CARE ABOUT FORMALITY HERE, NOT SINCE THE DESPOT WAS KILLED."
[11:53] <Brazen_Sand> "YOU CAN KEEP THE JEWELS, BY THE WAY, THEY'RE COMMON AS DIRT HERE."
[11:53] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Lord Brazen Sand, I thank you for the invitation to visit your fascinating city and to this ... delightfuly energetic feast."
[11:53] <Brazen_Sand> As he said this, Brazen dismissively scratched a patch of gems off of his scales and tossed them into the crowd without a care.
[11:54] <Brazen_Sand> "THANK YOU. WELL, I KNOW WE GOT OFF ON THE WRONG FOOT, BUT THE DELIBERATIVE HAS, TO BE HONEST, BEEN VERY GOOD TO US. FAR BETTER THEN MALFEAS EVER WAS."
[11:55] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen waved an arm the width of a mid-sized oak tree at the expanse of clean water that stood beside Gem, and the volcanic soil that it fed for farming.
[11:56] <Brazen_Sand> "WITH THIS LAKE THAT THE DELIBERATIVE CREATED, I CAN NOW KEEP MY SUBJECTS FREE FROM THIRST AND DROUGHT. THEY DO NOT HAVE TO FEAR PAYING EXORBITANT SUMS JUST TO KEEP THEIR FAMILIES FROM DYING OF THIRST."
[11:56] <Anshu> Out in the crowd, a few people can be heard coughing.
[11:58] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki smiles with well-faked sincerety. "Yes, I'd noticed that attitude in your people." He looks around, searching faces all around. "My mate will be visiting Gem as well, I do hope to meet her here." He frowns and continues in a lower voice. "Though she will not be happy at all at your casual disregard toward the secrecy of her identity."
[11:59] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> *, I'd predict."
[12:00] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen tilted his head. "I'M NOT SURE I UNDERSTAND WHY SOMEONE WOULD WANT TO KEEP THEIR IDENTITY SECRET, BUT...OKAY..."
[12:02] <Brazen_Sand> "ANYWAY, COME AND EAT, ENJOY YOURSELF, DANCE...! THERE'S BEEN A MILD FLU GOING AROUND, BUT I SUSPECT IT IS JUST THE WINTER. THE COLD CAN REACH EVEN US SOEMTIMES."
[12:02] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Nomoe's face takes on that carefully controlled, dispassionate expression Brazen Sand might have learned to associate with anger. "That ... is considerate of you."
[12:03] <Brazen_Sand> "YES, I AM VERY AWESOME! I AM A FANTASTIC EPITOME OF HEROISM AND LEADERSHIP!"
[12:03] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen said with complete and utter sincerity
[12:04] <Brazen_Sand> Launjilla subtly tapped a clawed leg against Brazen. "OH YES, I HAVE...PREPARED A SMALLER, MORE 'FORMAL' FUNCTION FOR OURSELVES IN MY PALACE." He said, sounding as if he was repeating it from rote memory.
[12:04] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki inclines his head slightly. "If it isn't too much trouble ..."
[12:09] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> He looks around, watching the crowd for a moment before turning back to Brazen Sand strangely disappointed at what he sees ... or doesn't see. "Yes, the lake must have been a blessing for the people of this city," he returns to an earlier subject. "And those locusts." He grins slightly, though not entirely happily. "Interesting."
[12:15] <Brazen_Sand> "AN ENTIRE CITY CAN BE FED WITH THEM, WITHOUT HAVING TO WORRY ABOUT SUPPLY OR ANYTHING LIKE THAT."
[12:15] <Brazen_Sand> "THEY CAN COMPLETELY CHANGE THE ECONOMICS OF HUNGER."
[12:16] <Bright_Snow> Somewhere nearby a mortal offers a handful of locusts to Bright Snow who politely refuses
[12:16] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen discusses as they walk to a large pavilion at the top of Gem. It would've been completely open to the scorching sun if it had been daytime."
[12:16] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Nomoe nods, seemingly agreeing. "And loyalty, too," he adds casually.
[12:17] <Brazen_Sand> The gates had obvious signs of modification to fit Brazen's body as it had grown and changed over his rulership of Gem.
[12:17] <Brazen_Sand> "WHAT OF THAT?" Brazen asked Nomoe
[12:19] <Brazen_Sand> The celebrant was slightly disappointed and confused by Snow's refusal. Who wouldn't want to taste such a delicious concoction as the holy food of the Greenfire King?
[12:21] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Knowing that the Infernal was unlikely to notice the needle among his words, taking them at face value at usual, Nomoe doesn't pursue the matter further. It's not his place to interfere anyway. "I see some after-market additions have been made," he states the obvious, adjusting to the Infernal in that.
[12:22] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen stared at Nomoe blankly
[12:23] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki keeps a perfectly straight face, repaying like with like.
[12:24] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen just shrugged and kept walking into an overly-apportioned ballroom that felt more like a cathedral then a desert settlement. He supposed it was just one of those weird things Nomoe did.
[12:24] <Brazen_Sand> The room itself could only be described as sumptuous. Pillows and cushions and gem-encrusted goblets everywhere.
[12:25] <Brazen_Sand> No courtesans, oddly enough. In the middle was a polished marble floor that was likely for dancing.
[12:25] <Brazen_Sand> "ANOTHER PARTING GIFT LEFT FOR ME BY THE DESPOT."
[12:26] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen remarked as his guests entered the room. "YOUR SERVANTS CAN STAY HERE WITH US OR MINGLE OUTSIDE IF THEY WANT."
[12:27] <Brazen_Sand> Launjilla buzzed in lazily as well, and hunched into an equivalent sitting position near some grapes.
[12:30] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Then seeing Bright Snow out of the corner of his eyes Nomoe smiles to himself. Though he does not turn his head and continues walking, not wanting to disrupt her cover by accident, he addresses her in his mind.
[12:30] <Brazen_Sand> A nearby servant carefully placed grapes into the agatae's mouth.
[12:31] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> -- */Bright Snow, Sun and Moon bless you. I see you have found your way to Gem as well./ sincere happiness to meet again /There is a slightly more private function in the palace - will you join me?/ there is the mental image of an offered hand*
[12:34] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Entering the ballroom Nomoe gives polite attention to the ostentatious wealth all around. "Gem's despots need suffer not the sight of base metals and less than precious stone, I see."
[12:34] <Bright_Snow> */ I will join you for awhile and though I wish to examine this society in greater detail, I believe it will wait for me at least for the moment / her mental image shows her taking his hand, a similar flood of happiness replacing her distaste at the locusts/*
[12:35] <Bright_Snow> Wandering to the palace she slids into step with Nomoe, nodding to Brazen as she does so.
[12:35] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen sniffed disdainfully. "THAT'S HOW IT USED TO BE. THIS WAS THEIR PARTY PLACE FOR THE GREAT HOUSES OF GEM."
[12:35] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> His servants know their places well, his other companions he briefly sees off as they join the festivities outside.
[12:36] <Brazen_Sand> "SINCE IT WAS SO HOT DURING THE DAY FOR MORTALS, IT SHOWED HOW RICH AND POWERFUL THEY WERE THAT THEY COULD HANG OUT UP AT THE TOP ALL DAY LONG IF THEY WANTED."
[12:37] <Brazen_Sand> He pointed to ice that steamed in the heat at the corners of each room, yet never shrinking
[12:37] <Brazen_Sand> "THAT'S ETERNAL ICE, THE ENTIRE ROOM COULD STAY COOL WITH THAT, EVEN DURING NOONTIME IN THE SUMMER."
[12:38] <Brazen_Sand> He looked at Nomoe to see if he could understand the implications of what he was talking about.
[12:39] <Bright_Snow> "And now you enjoy their wealth and priviledge while you citizenry remains outside
[12:39] <Bright_Snow> "
[12:39] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked oddly vulnerable while he was lost in thought.
[12:40] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen waved a hand. "I DON'T ENJOY IT. IT'S JUST THERE." He picked up a goblet, a noticably dusty one, actually. It was a bit smaller then his pinky talon. "DO YOU REALLY THINK I COULD DRINK OUT OF THIS?" He asked.
[12:41] <Brazen_Sand> Then he pointed at a cushion made out of the softest silk. "OR SLEEP THERE?" The cushion was smaller then one of his toes.
[12:41] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki inclines his head slightly to Bright Snow as she joins them in body as well as mind. */It is unlikely that the society of Gem would fall before the end of the festival ... but of course one can learn much by examining how they celebrate./ an echo of various side-thoughts /I will be interested to hear of your findings, later/*
[12:42] <Brazen_Sand> "I LIVE HERE BECAUSE IT'S THE ONLY PLACE THAT I CAN...WELL, THAT I CAN REALLY FIT INTO. WHEN I WAS HUMAN, I, WE, LIVED IN THE MID-DEPTHS."
[12:42] <Bright_Snow> "So instead it is used by no one." She gestures to the dust. "And equally goes to waste."
[12:43] <Brazen_Sand> "WHAT DO THEY NEED HERE? GEMS ARE MORE COMMON THEN DIRT HERE." Brazen countered, somewhat stung by the criticism
[12:43] <Bright_Snow> Her tone is cold but not harsh.
[12:43] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Nomoe knows of eternal ice of course, as well as it's cost, and politely examines the cushion as Brazen Sand points at it. "No, I suppose the implements of humanity would be of little use to you."
[12:43] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked at Nomoe with a deeper expression of hurt on his demonic face.
[12:44] <Brazen_Sand> "I SERVE MY SUBJECTS WELL." He said, a little faintly.
[12:44] <Brazen_Sand> "I WAS THERE FOR THEM WHEN THE RAKSHA CAME, WHEN NO ONE ELSE WAS."
[12:44] <Bright_Snow> */ Perhaps after I have seen Sanken, I would like to see how our opinions on society differ / her feelings are guarded at the moment /*
[12:44] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen sat down heavily enough for teh ground to tremble, sitting on a massive sprawl of cushions near the others.
[12:44] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Being too small and fragile for your current form," Nomoe clarifies, not having intended his words to hurt ... much.
[12:45] <Brazen_Sand> "IT'S LIKE A CHRYSALIS. I WAS SMALL AND FRAGILE AS A HUMAN, BUT NOT ANYMORE."
[12:46] <Brazen_Sand> "NOW I'M STRONG ENOUGH TO FIGHT ANYTHING, AND STOP ANYONE, PROTECT EVERYTHING."
[12:46] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "How do you serve your subjects currently?" Nomoe inquires.
[12:47] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen shook his head, leaping out of his reverie. "I DEFEND THEM, I MAKE SURE THEY'RE FED, ABLE TO EAT...AND...I DON'T KNOW, EVERYONE'S HAPPIER NOW. NO ONE HAS TO BE ANYONE'S SLAVE."
[12:48] <Brazen_Sand> "WITH THE DESPOT, ANYONE COULD BECOME A SLAVE, JUST THROWN INTO THE MINES TO DIE."
[12:50] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Taking Brazen Sand sitting down as an invitation - for otherwise surely the host would be the last to sit - Nomoe sits down as well. */You are always welcome in Sanken, in so far as I can speak for it./*
[12:51] * Bright_Snow sits also. Lounging on the silks. "So what becomes of the mines now. Do they stand idle and empty like this place? With no need for food or water what purpose does Gem serve in things. The people are content but what else?"
[12:52] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> He nods seriously, as Brazen Sand explains his position. "Gem still stands. In these times sadly that alone must count as an accomplishment."
[12:52] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> *even that alon
[12:53] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen shrugged. "WHAT MORE DO THEY NEED? THEY CAN TAKE GEMS FROM THE MINES IF THEY WANT. THEY JUST NEED TO SHOW APPROPRIATE GRATITUDE, AND OTHERWISE THEY CAN LIVE THEIR LIVES THE WAY THEY WANT."
[12:54] <Bright_Snow> "And what do they do with their time, when they are not celebrating?"
[12:55] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen once again shrugged. "THEY DO HUMAN MORTAL THINGS, I GUESS. THEY LIVE AND EAT AND PLAY AND LOVE AND ALL THAT."
[12:55] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki tilts his head slightly. "Are you beyond these things then?"
[12:56] <Brazen_Sand> "BEYOND WHAT? I LIVE AND EAT AND DO THINGS FOR ENJOYMENT. I REMEMBER BEING HUMAN. WHAT ARE YOU PLAYING AT, DELIBERATOR?"
[12:56] <Brazen_Sand> He frowned at Nomoe, this wasn't going the way he had expected.
[12:57] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki makes an apologetic gesture. "You spoke as if those things did not concern you. Maybe I misunderstood ..."
[12:57] <Bright_Snow> "I see..." /* She does not */
[12:58] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> *had nothing to do with you
[12:58] <Brazen_Sand> "I DON'T NEED TO CONCERN MYSELF WITH EVERY LITTLE THING THAT THEY DO HERE. WHEN MY HELP IS NEEDED, MY SUBJECTS CALL FOR IT, AND I ANSWER."
[12:58] <Brazen_Sand> "BESIDES, LAUNJILLA USUALLY HANDLES THAT KIND OF STUFF." He said, waving an arm at the massive agatae
[12:58] <Bright_Snow> "So grant them whatever they desire?"
[12:59] <Brazen_Sand> "I SUPPOSE. WHAT I CAN GRANT. IF THEY CAN'T GET IT ANYWHERE ELSE. WHY DO YOU THINK I GOT THE LAKE CREATED?"
[12:59] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Why did you?"
[13:00] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked at Nomoe incredulously. "WHAT KIND OF A QUESTION IS THAT? HUMANS NEED WATER."
[13:01] <Brazen_Sand> Launjilla walked over to the Exalts and cut in, sounding like a voice made out of tinkling bells. "Speaking of which, would any of you like anything to drink?" It said, trying to cut the tension.
[13:02] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "You moved to have the lake created because humans, all humans, need water?" Nomoe continues to inquire, his tone neutral in the style of a scholar seeking to carve truth from assumptions.
[13:02] <Brazen_Sand> "OF COURSE."
[13:02] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Only if it isn't too much trouble ..."
[13:02] <Brazen_Sand> "LOTS OF PEOPLE LIVE HERE, SO THEY NEEDED LOTS OF WATER, WATER FROM A RENEWABLE SOURCE."
[13:03] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki seems to wait for Brazen Sand to continue
[13:05] <Brazen_Sand> The agatae walked away and later returned with a platter of wine glasses held perfectly balanced in it's prehensile anntenae.
[13:05] <Brazen_Sand> There was a jug of water as well.
[13:05] <Brazen_Sand> "...THAT'S IT."
[13:05] <Bright_Snow> "And what requests wouldn't you grant?"
[13:05] <Bright_Snow> "Where would you draw the line with what you have them do for themselves?"
[13:05] <Brazen_Sand> "I DON'T KNOW. IT'S NEVER COME UP. WHY ARE YOU ALL ASKING THESE QUESTIONS?" He asked impatiently. "THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A CELEBRATION."
[13:06] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Ah," Nomoe says at length. If offered he does take a glass of water.
[13:06] <Brazen_Sand> The agatae does offer each of them a glass of water, which is more precious then wine in this desert culture.
[13:07] <Bright_Snow> She leans back, taking a glass of wine. "And when were interesing discussions not part of a celebration?"
[13:07] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Just pleasant conversation," Nomoe nods, showing a little surprise.
[13:08] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "But certainly, if it does not please the host I wouldn't want to offend."
[13:08] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen nodded. Unused to entertaining such..."civilized" guests.
[13:09] <Brazen_Sand> "I...SEE. THIS IS HOW YOU SPEND YOUR CELEBRATIONS? NOT GOING OUT AND REVELING WITH THE OTHERS?"
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[13:10] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen took a glass of water and carefully lapped at it with a snake-like tongue, being unable to fit his entire face around it.
[13:10] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "There is time for both, usually," Nomoe confirms.
[13:11] <Brazen_Sand> He started to seem slightly more at ease.
[13:12] <Brazen_Sand> "I AM NOT...USED TO...WHAT IS IT CALLED, FETEING PEOPLE? THINGS WERE SO MUCH SIMPLER BEFORE THE NEW DELIBERATIVE WAS CREATED, YOU KNOW." He said, giving a rumbling sigh.
[13:12] <Brazen_Sand> "ALL I HAD TO WORRY ABOUT WAS KEEPING RAKSHA AND BEHEMOTHS AWAY...AND THE TORMENT OF THE YOZIS."
[13:13] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Fine conversation, ceremonies, appreciation of music and other arts, dances, fireworks, there are many parts to celebrations where I come from - as there is almost everywhere, I believe." He smiles, inclining his head to Bright Snow. "But then I am not the expert on the different customs of Creation."
[13:13] <Bright_Snow> "I never said I'd attend because I felt like celebrating." She says sipping her wine. "Personally I feel the incident with Ma-Ha-Suchi and his underlings is a cause to mourn. The mourn the loss of a Lunar who was once great and over his life degenerated into monsterousness.."
[13:14] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked down, it was almost surreal to see such a normally bombastic entity acting so...thoughtful, quiet.
[13:15] <Brazen_Sand> "He had his chance, he made his choice. No one made him hurt all those people. He should be punished. The real crime is that he was tolerated so long." Brazen whispered.
[13:15] <Brazen_Sand> "well, that and all the rape and murder." Brazen added.
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[13:17] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> There is a hint of sadness in Nomoe's eyes. "A troubling warning to us all, I believe. The Exalted are blessed with power and glory, but far more importantly burdened with the greatest responsibility of all, to Creation and its peoples."
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[13:17] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen nodded. "Good to see we finally agree on something. I couldn't stay in Malfeas after awhile because of that."
[13:20] <Virgil> "No I am here to observe, to learn and to witness." Her tone softens, "And to spend time with friends, it has been sometime since I have had more than a single friend."
[13:20] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked surprised, and then actually smiled genuinely...which would have probably sent an unfamiliar mortal running in fear, but the thought was what counted
[13:21] *** Virgil is now known as Bright_Snow
[13:21] <Brazen_Sand> "Yes...yes, it has for me as well. We are quite a crew, aren't we?" He said, huffing in amusement.
[13:22] <Bright_Snow> */ Her emotions are all over the place, flowing from icy indifference to warm to melancholy in the space of a moment /* She turns her gaze on Hideiki and sips her wine.
[13:23] <Brazen_Sand> A single tear actually ended up flowing down Brazen's face.
[13:23] <Brazen_Sand> it landed on the ground, hissing and giving off steam like boiling water
[13:26] <Bright_Snow> Glancing at the hand holding the glass and again at their surroundings she frowns a moment. The light flooding the room seems to ripple as it hits her and fractures. Her form changing, her bronze skin becoming much paler, the colour fading from her, and her dress shortening and staining crimson. She glances up staring Hideki straight in the eyes, a look he has not seen in her before.
[13:27] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked at her in wonder, all 3 orbs of fire gaping widely
[13:27] <Brazen_Sand> "So now we see what you really look like, hm?" Brazen asked, raising his glass at her.
[13:28] <Brazen_Sand> Launjilla bowed to the Lunar. "With respect, this one finds your appearance to be most aesthetically pleasing." It said to her.
[13:28] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> There is a smile in Nomoe Hideaki's eyes as he automatically looks to Bright Snow. "Friends are not easily found for ones such as us. They are all the more precious for it."
[13:30] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> *Duty is heavy as a mountain on Hideaki, social station as unreachably high as his brings almost complete isolation. Having a partner in this world, an equal, is a great boon, a friend infinitely more so.*
[13:30] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen got up and looked out the window, staring at his city while his tail thrashed back and forth.
[13:31] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen turned back and looked at his friends. "I know that the world expects us to hate each other, but I am glad that I met you all, every day I am thankful that Fate brought us together."
[13:32] <Brazen_Sand> "You should all know." He whispered just loud enough for it to be audible through the room. "no matter what happens next."
[13:33] <Brazen_Sand> *Know that.
[13:34] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki holds Bright Snow's gaze, his head slightly tilted, his mind open in a faintly questioning chord.
[13:34] <Bright_Snow> Turning from Hideaki, confusion registers on Snow's flawless face. She glances at Brazen suspciously.
[13:36] <Brazen_Sand> "I'm leaving Gem." He admitted. "The Deliberative can take it over."
[13:36] <Bright_Snow> In her surprise the chaos in her blood shows in her eyes, their colour shifting with her mood.
[13:37] <Brazen_Sand> "I thought that you should be the first to know." He said slowly, as if he had to make his brain work in a different configuration to get his words out.
[13:39] <Bright_Snow> "Why?"
[13:39] <Brazen_Sand> "Why'm I leaving, or why did I tell you first?"
[13:41] <Bright_Snow> She waves, indicating a response to both or either would be appropriate.
[13:41] <Brazen_Sand> "Because the world has changed." Brazen said, dropping the usual pretense of being a blustery, rude Infernal. For once he sounded completely serious.
[13:42] <Brazen_Sand> "And so have I. I've...learned about the world, and about how fleeting power really is. I've learned it from working with you all."
[13:42] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "The world changes daily ... I assume you are referring to a more fundamental change than most?" Nomoe inquires.
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[13:43] <Brazen_Sand> brazen nodded, and swallowed, trying to find the words. "I've...acted more like the Yozis then I had thought possible, then I had...well, ever intended. Even when I had tried to use it in a different way."
[13:45] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki nods, agreeing. "I doubt the Yozi's, Malfeas in particular, would relinquish what is theirs, though."
[13:46] <Brazen_Sand> "Even holding this city, I've been like Malfeas in miniature
[13:46] <Anshu> (test)
[13:46] *** Danakir is now known as Imperative_Harmony_of_Order
[13:47] <Brazen_Sand> "I'm going to find a new way, a better way." He said. "And that begins with acting like myself, instead of like a makeshift Yozis."
[13:50] <Brazen_Sand> "And that starts with this."
[13:50] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "The question isn't whether you can find a better way." she intrudes on the conversation at last, coming into their little private party for actual matters of business she had to attend to, discussing with sundry messengers requiring her attention. She is after a busy woman who's time is constantly requested.
[13:51] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked at Harmony in surprise. "Oh, you made it. Awesome!" he said, pleased with himself.
[13:51] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "But if you can. Can you change? What I've seen up to now is troubling. Can you give up something that is as much a part of you as it is a part of Malfeas? Is that even possible?" she insists calmly, grabbing a glass filled with wine on one of the tables.
[13:51] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Yes. Sorry for the delay, I didn't intent to be this busy."
[13:52] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen shrugged. "Haven't I already changed? I'm different from what I was when I was chosen by Malfeas."
[13:53] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "I wouldn't know that. I come as someone who has just met you. Look at yourself now. Look at what form you take. It is a reflection of Hell." she smiles sadly as she sips a bit of wine "Have you changed, or have you just embraced the demon within?" she ponders outloud.
[13:55] <Brazen_Sand> "Sol Invictus seemed to think there was hope."
[13:56] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "...." she just stares at Braze with something approaching incredulity painted all over her face.
[13:56] <Brazen_Sand> "I prayed to him a month ago, and he spoke to me." Brazen said solemnly
[13:57] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Even Nomoe can't hide his amazement that the Most High deigned to speak to Brazen Sand. "He ... he did?"
[13:58] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "What did Ignis Divine tell you, Brazen?" her face turns to stone as she takes in the possibility, trying to hold onto her composure in the face of the unexpected.
[13:58] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen actaully smirked and folded his arms across his chest. "I'm loud, and crude, and I'm sure I've embarrassed you countless times, Nomoe-San, but have I ever bullshitted you?"
[13:59] <Brazen_Sand> "I know you can tell when people are lying."
[14:00] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Mmpf. That was a rhethorical question. I know you don't have the subtlety to lie to me."
[14:00] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "You can feel smug and vindicated later Brazen. Please, share with us what he told you. It may yet prove enlightening."
[14:01] <Brazen_Sand> "He told me that I could redeem myself in his sight, be struck from his list of enemies. But I'd have to fulfill a big quest for him. You know, the usual heroic stuff."
[14:02] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen shrugged. "All I got to do is remove all the Infernal Exaltations from teh grip of teh Yozis. Shouldn't be too hard." He said confidently.
[14:02] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Having seen Bright Snow's true form only briefly in the chaos of battle Nomoe is slightly surprised to see how deeply the Fae influence runs. Fae, Sanken's mortal enemy throughout all his adult life. Hatred is a reflex.
[14:02] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> But ... Bright Snow is not one of them. Where among the Fair Folk beauty is no more than a brightly painted shell around devouring emptiness he knows that this is different for her. She has a soul. Substance and depth, of which he has glimpsed no more than a surface facet or two at most.
[14:02] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> She is his partner. With two conflicting perceptions there is a strange dissonance to looking upon Bright Snow. Knowing that she'll feel at least part of that disorientation Hideaki lets an apologetic shrug and an embarrassed smile flow into the bond.
[14:03] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Mmmmm..." she folds her arms, clenching her hand slightly around her glass, hiding her troubled spirit flawlessly behind the facade of her visage "It is true that if we were to remove and purify all Infernal exaltation from the grasp of the Yozi, our names would be sang into the eons to come as that of heroes."
[14:04] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> Her attention is focused on Brazen at the moment "But still, is the forgiveness of the Most High all there is to this? To escape the touch of Hell yet still wear its shape and speak in its voice and be of its kin, is that really any different?" she sighs and downs her drink suddenly without warning.
[14:04] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "But there is nothing I can do here." she mumbles to herself.
[14:04] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen shook his head, his shaggy mane of fire waving with it. "Don't ever talk like that. Everyone can do something!"
[14:05] <Brazen_Sand> "I was some middle-child from a family that barely got by in the ass-end of Gem, and I ended up saving thousands of people! I know that everyone has a hero inside them, because if I could manage it, anyone can!"
[14:06] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> It's on reflection something that he shouldn't have trouble figuring out. And that he does, no matter how slight, is a shameful weakness. But ... he'll overcome it yet, he will, for certain. Just a little more time to weed out the unworthy thoughts ...
[14:06] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Brazen. I am a woman who does what must be done for the glory, prosperity and peace of this empire we have built with sweat and blood. In action I am decisive." she close her eyes and puts her hand to his forearm, for he is far bigger than she.
[14:06] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Being a hero is only the beginning. You must also become one inside, and that for you will be the true journey. Can you see that?" she smiles with something of bitterness.
[14:07] <Brazen_Sand> "It's not what's on the outside that counts." Brazen said with a smirk.
[14:07] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki laughs drily. "I believe Brazen Sand may have a shorter journey ahead of himself than you think, if one much longer than he thinks."
[14:08] <Brazen_Sand> "But thanks for the vote of confidence." He added, taking her hand in his massive one.
[14:08] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "I hope you're right, but I won't believe it." she is as stubborn and sincere as ever it would seem, brutally honest some would say. She blinks as her hand is taken by Brazen "Don't misunderstand." she looks at him in the eyes.
[14:08] <Bright_Snow> */ Her own response is cold, hardening herself for whatever conclusion he reaches. /* With Brazen now debating with Harmony her attention has fully returned to her mate, and with it control of herself.
[14:09] <Bright_Snow> */ We share an enemy in the Fae, do not forget you are the only one with hatred for my kinsmen / For a moment she lets him feel the depth of that startlingly deep hatred, it is a hatred borne of more that passing familiarity / why do you suppose I wear this form as infrequently as I do, why would I when I have so very many others /*
[14:09] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen smirked. "Nothing is impossible. I'll show everyone that. I got Nomoe-San to tolerate me...that's proof already."
[14:11] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "In any case, it is not for me to gainsay the word of the Most High," Nomoe states simply. Nomoe accepts not many as above him, but the Incarna and Sol Invictus in particular ... where other Exalted may deserve slightly more respect, the Most High are an order of magnitude above him.
[14:11] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> And privately he is pleased that his own assessment of Brazen Sand is confirmed by Ignis Divine.
[14:12] <Brazen_Sand> "Yeah, The Unconquered Sun is a pretty nice guy. Way better then what the Yozis had told me about him."
[14:12] * Bright_Snow laughs at Brazen's comment, breaking the unspoken tension between herself and Nomoe
[14:12] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "The Most High is the ultimate authority and if he should see fit to offer Brazen a chance to redeem himself in His eyes, then so be it. But I will not allow myself to falter in my vigil." she shakes her head and takes back her hand.
[14:12] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Even for his words."
[14:12] <Brazen_Sand> He paused for a moment. "He broke Malfea's heart, you know."
[14:12] <Brazen_Sand> *Malfeas'
[14:12] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "He broke that and much more, last I checked." she jokes.
[14:12] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> She. She joked. Be amazed.
[14:13] <Brazen_Sand> He frowned. "It's not funny, not when you've actually spoken to him about it. Malfeas is a monster, but when you see his entire souls based around that heartbreak."
[14:13] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki listens in silence, not being versed in meta-theology
[14:14] <Brazen_Sand> brazen shrugged. "That's that. The UCS told me that he wasn't very happy about Malfeas being in pain either. He called him his father."
[14:14] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Pardon me if I lack pity for the Holy Tyrant." she appears to not show any regret "However I have no concern for his well-being. This prison is exactly what he deserves and it is the punishment handed down from on high. Do not question it."
[14:14] <Brazen_Sand> "The Ebon Dragon, on the other hand..."
[14:15] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> She rubs the arc of her nose "What is the Most High thinking."
[14:15] <Brazen_Sand> "Have you spoken to him?" Brazen asked Harmony. "He has Compassion for all things...so much compassion that I could actually feel it, like a robe he wore over himself."
[14:16] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen's eyes went a bit unfocused as he recalled the visitation
[14:17] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> She goes quiet for a long time. Perhaps even too long. "Yes I did. I am after all of the Zenith caste and a High Priest of the Most High, lest we forget." she appears a bit insulted by his inquiry, but not too much.
[14:17] <Brazen_Sand> "But anyway, that's not what's important right now."
[14:17] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Do you know what he beseeched me do back then?"
[14:17] <Brazen_Sand> "Stop evil?"
[14:18] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "He beseeched me bring Law back unto the Anarchy of Creation, bring back Order where there is only Chaos. To be a bulwark against that which would devour Creation. That includes Hell. And so Hell will forever stay as it is. For it is the way it should be." she declares boldly.
[14:18] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "I will have it no other way. If Malfeas is to suffer in perpetuity for his great crimes, it is a small price."
[14:18] <Brazen_Sand> "I didn't say I thought he should get out."
[14:19] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "His suffering is part of his punishment. You implying that it is regrettable is itself mistaken."
[14:19] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen snorted, and a flare of green flame burst out of his nostrils for a moment.
[14:19] <Brazen_Sand> "If you say so." Was all he answered.
[14:20] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "I know so." she nods slightly, not breaking contact with his gaze "But that is beside the point. Do not misunderstand me. I bear no ill will to fallen Malfeas. It is merely how it should be." she points out.
[14:21] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen just shrugged. He didn't have anything else to say to that.
[14:22] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "You feel kinship to Malfeas." she points out calmly. "That is weakness, perhaps in time you will see why." she then takes his hand in her own, however clumsily "What will Gem do once you're gone?" she asks.
[14:22] <Brazen_Sand> "Anyway, this festival was my last gift to the mortals of Gem."
[14:22] <Brazen_Sand> "The Deliberative will take care of it, I guess."
[14:23] <Brazen_Sand> "There's a Deathlord underneath, though."
[14:23] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Would you like me to administrate it in your stead?" she offers herself calmly "The people of Gem shouldn't suffer without strong leadership and auspicious administration of both justice and common matters."
[14:25] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen smiled and pointed right at her with a claw. "You are the most massive hardass I've ever seen. You make Nomoe-San look like a...a...you make Nomoe-San look like me."
[14:26] <Brazen_Sand> "Yeah, you should be fine."
[14:26] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki raises an eyebrow.
[14:26] <Brazen_Sand> "I guess."
[14:26] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "I take my duty seriously. Don't you?" she doesn't really get what he's meaning, seemingly thoroughly confused by this word 'hardass' "What does that even mean?"
[14:26] <Brazen_Sand> "It means that you're rigid."
[14:27] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Like a rod of steel?" she asks innocently "I'm not that stiff."
[14:27] <Brazen_Sand> "Yes." Brazen said flatly. "You really really are."
[14:27] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "She looks at her joints and test them for a moment or so "No. I disagree, but think what you will." annnnnd she completely missed the point.
[14:29] * ~Nomoe_Hideaki grins slightly at the amusing scene, giving Bright Snow a quick glance (habituation will help sort out his errant thoughts).
[14:29] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen just sighed in disbelief.
[14:29] <Brazen_Sand> "ANYWAY, I guess you might as well try administering it. Just be gentle with them."
[14:29] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> She grins slightly, pointing out helpfully "Now you know how I feel. All the time." she snickers and leaves her glass on a nearby table.
[14:30] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Hideaki looks at Bright Snow, forcing himself to see neither the Fae blood nor the tell nor even phantoms of the other shapes he has seen her in, only the glimmer of truth that is at the heart of all those appearances.
[14:30] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "I'll do my best. I'll keep my hands of, I just don't want them to descent into Anarchy."
[14:30] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> After a moment he adds: */There is no conclusion to be reached, that you'd need to prepare yourself. The weakness, the fault is mine. It is I who will need to ask forgiveness./ worry, embarrassment and shame*
[14:30] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> -- *despite his own strong feelings Nomoe is nearly overwhelmed to feel Bright Snow's hatred of the Fair Folk /I ... understand./ wonder that he could say so in truth*
[14:30] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> ((this before the line just before))
[14:31] <Brazen_Sand> "There's a Locust pit in Gem that should last for about a hundred years. Don't wreck it."
[14:31] <Brazen_Sand> He grunted.
[14:31] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "I wouldn't take food out of the mouth of those who need it, I am not that cruel or heartless as you might think." she returns impassibly.
[14:32] <Brazen_Sand> "Well good then." Brazen said, "So how's that trial going?" He asked, sitting back in his cushion pile
[14:34] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "It'll take place in less than a week. I have requested to head it. However this is now out of my hands, Justicar or not." she answers with a small sigh.
[14:37] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen shrugged. "Well." He said, motioning for Launjilla to offer her another wineglass. "maybe some time to relax and enjoy yourself would do you some good."
[14:37] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "What do you expect will be the verdict?" Nomoe inquires.
[14:38] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Unless there is strong political manoeuvering from the Celestial Deliberative, the death penalty appears all to inevitable." she answers with some hesitation before adding dryly "I am *technically* on vacation." she snorts.
[14:38] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> all but inevitable*
[14:39] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen rumbled out a chuckle. "yes, 'technically'."
[14:39] <Brazen_Sand> "I bet you wish I'd killed him right there now, eh?"
[14:41] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "No. I never wish to corrupt the process of justice." she answers ever the stick in the mud.
[14:41] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "My vacation time is an acceptable sacrifice."
[14:49] <Brazen_Sand> "If you say so." Brazen said, taking another lick of wine.
[14:50] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> Without her sister around, it's not like she felt particularly festive anyway. Where did that woman run off to THIS time anyway? Le sigh... she suddenly appears thoroughly depressed.
[14:53] <Anshu> The Celestial Exalts while away the night in Brazen's palace. As dawn breaks over the eastern horizon, led to private rooms by servants to sleep until the evening, when the festivities will resume.
[14:56] <Anshu> Unfortunately, when they wake, they find that the festive mood of the citizen has dimmed somewhat. Many are too sick to dance or sing, and many of the old and young died in their sleep.
[14:57] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen looked outside, shocked at them. "WHAT HAS HAPPENED HERE!?" He demanded of the nearest mortal.
[14:57] <Brazen_Sand> *shocked at what he saw
[14:57] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> Harmony mobilize as soon as she hears wind of this to make sure there isn't some manner of sickness spreading amongst the citizenry. She'd just yesterday accepted responsibility for the city, she wouldn't allow it to go to hell.
[14:58] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> She consults with the townsfolk and has any medical expert she can get her hands onto tell her what they know.
[15:00] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen instructed the medical savants that happened to be here to tell them all they knew
[15:00] <Brazen_Sand> he then interrogated every Raksha that he had hired for his party about what they were doing.
[15:01] <Anshu> The mortal accosted by Brazen quakes. "Sickness is spreading through the city, Your Majesty."
[15:01] <Brazen_Sand> If they had eaten the souls of any of his subjects, they would never stop screaming, ever.
[15:01] <Brazen_Sand> "HOW?" He asked, confused.
[15:01] <Brazen_Sand> "EVERYTHING WAS FINE LAST NIGHT."
[15:01] <Anshu> The savants tell Brazen that the city seems to have been afflicted with an outbreak of the plague.
[15:01] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> As soon as he hears of disease spreading among the people Nomoe recalls all of his entourage that celebrated with the Gemites and has them questioned as to whether came in contact with one who is sick, or feel sick themselves.
[15:03] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> She press one hand to the savant's shoulder, asking him bluntly "The plague? Are you certain?" she appears grimly serious about the matter at hand.
[15:04] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> He also has them sequestered away from anyone who might be sick and makes sure any who feel sick are quarantined - and that's about how much he can do by himself.
[15:04] <Anshu> He nods. "We don't know how it got into the city, but the signs are clear."
[15:05] <Brazen_Sand> "SO WHAT DO WE DO?" Brazen asked. He had no medical knowledge at all
[15:05] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "We must move to take sanitation measures immediately. Bring every important community organizer here has soon as we can, we'll have an emergency meeting and I'll organize the distribution of resources. Time is of the essence." she cuts Brazen immediately, taking charge.
[15:05] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> She might be no doctor but she's an excessively talented organizer. She would make sure whatever efforts were made would be inhumanly efficient. They couldn't afford to wait for medical reinforcement.
[15:06] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen just shakes his head in confusion and follows Harmony's lead, not knowing what else to do.
[15:06] <Brazen_Sand> He once again wished for the old days, when every problem could just be punched until it went away
[15:07] <Brazen_Sand> Launjilla has better luck assisting Harmony, flying about Gem and relaying her orders
[15:07] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Noting that his own people are thus far unaffected Nomoe nods satisfied - obviously they showed discipline in staying away from unsanitary places and activities - and lets them form up to move out. They'll breath through wine-soaked cloth and are instructed not to touch anything and strike down anyone trying to touch them.
[15:08] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen flew over to Nomoe and inquired about his servants. "You can have them leave, if you want. There's no reason they should have to risk themselves here."
[15:09] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Marching ahead of them Nomoe radiates unquestionable authority - no one will bar his egress or even only get in his way.
[15:09] <Brazen_Sand> He growled and snarled. His entire festival was RUINED.
[15:09] <Brazen_Sand> Whoever had done this would FRY
[15:09] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Mmh. What do you think I'm doing?" There is no pointedness to the comment, though.
[15:10] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen nodded and flew away to check on other places.
[15:10] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Once back at the air ship the healer on duty is ordered to keep a close eye on everyone, and not to allow contact with Gemites until given the all-clear.
[15:14] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> There is a fluttering of silk then and Nomoe is with Brazen Sand and Harmony. "If I can be of assistance, Lord Brazen Sand, I offer what ability I have." As a guest it is only proper after all to offer support to the host.
[15:15] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen's look of near-terror and confusion breaks. "I...yes, I need help!"
[15:15] <Brazen_Sand> He says to Nomoe.
[15:16] <Brazen_Sand> "Okay okay okay, Harmony has instructions for us. But...MALFEAS'S BALLS, I DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THIS STUFF!"
[15:17] <Brazen_Sand> He cried out, even though he was trying to keep himself from frightening his subjects
[15:17] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "I do have some miniscule talent for logistics, but I see the Justicar has matters already well in hand." Nomoe looks over the papers Harmony prepared.
[15:18] * Bright_Snow watches on. Making no comment and taking no action.
[15:18] <Bright_Snow> */ Interest is all that fills the bond. /*
[15:18] <Brazen_Sand> "People are dying, Hideaki!" Brazen said frantically while flying about looking for a source, the proper method of address forgotten in the process
[15:20] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "That's 'Nomoe-san' to you," he says distractedly.
[15:21] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> Harmony is completely swamped by the emergency at the moment. Even her vast skills require her to be nearly everywhere at the same time. She as such cannot involve herself with them for now.
[15:21] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> "Justicar, I can find no fault with your plans. Though I will add that if we can identify the source of the disease several points become much easier."
[15:23] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> "Yes. I'll take care of that as soon as everything is under control." she sweeps past him, getting to the first desk she can find to furiously write a letter requesting and seizing both the resources of the incoming
[15:23] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> caravans of the Deliberative and any medical experts in the region, by the authority of Magistrate Imperative Harmony of Order of the Celestial Deliberative.
[15:23] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> Knowing your way around the law and customs of every land could help like that.
[15:24] <Bright_Snow> After a few moments of watching her companions organise something, Snow sweeps off to investigate the spread of the plague, curious as to the rapid spread and minimal sign of symptoms
[15:28] <Anshu> There are a handful of Wood-Aspected healers available, and they are quickly put to work tending the sick.
[15:29] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Deriving a list of the most vital supplies and medicines from Harmony's preliminary work Nomoe commandeers a number of wagon teams and sets out for the nearest Bordermarches.
[15:29] <Brazen_Sand> Brazen is eventually reined in by Harmony, adn sets to work directing his subjects and the doctors, his strong presence keeping the populace from panicking
[15:31] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Once he has crossed the immaterial line that divides solid Creation from the more fluid reality of the Bordermarches Nomoe halts. From his belt he draws a complicated mechanical glove of orichalcum and adamant which he pulls over his left hand.
[15:32] <Bright_Snow> Wandering throughout the city, she keeps her ears open, wearing many forms. A crow around the sorrowful funeral of a newborn babe; A maiden, comforting a child who has lost his mother; A cat, while visiting the home of a widow who has lost her only son.
[15:32] <Anshu> In addition, thaumaturges are put to work producing draughts to help deal with the disease.
[15:33] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> The letters were now sent to where they would do the most good with the fastest messengers they could get in the circumstances. Hopefully it would do some good by the next dawn. But she had so much more to do, while making her rounds to ascertain that everything is going smoothly, she also investigates further on the nature of this strange plague. The point where it all begun, for most people it would be impos
[15:33] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Under the eyes of the wagoneers who don't understand but can't help but have faith in the Deliberator Nomoe Hideaki raises his left arm into the air, fist closed. For a time nothing happens. For a time all is quiet. Almost an hour passes.
[15:33] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> while making her rounds to ascertain that everything is going smoothly, she also investigates further on the nature of this strange plague. The point where it all begun, for most people it would be impossible to retrive.
[15:33] <Imperative_Harmony_of_Order> But she isn't most people.
[15:33] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> The Deliberator stands still as a statue, in total concentration.
[15:34] <Anshu> Brazen Sand's presence and steadfastness calms his people, keeping them from a panic.
[15:36] <Bright_Snow> A scorpion while visiting a tavern, where all but the proprietor lay deceased. The survivor in silent weeping. A dog while investigating a mortuary being nailed into his own coffin, dead the night before, his wears now stolen his heirs destitute. An alchemist as she grants mercy to someone in the last throws of the disease, there begging cries not gone unheeded.
[15:36] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Then, suddenly, he opens the fist. There is an all-consuming eruption of light in colors that have no names in Creation, continous rolling thunder without sound or movement. For time without measure all perception is stolen away by pure will unleashed, the power of the creators in the hands of one man.
[15:38] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> When the light passes there are piles and piles of the various medicines, barrels full of required substances for the thaumaturges. Their reality might be questionable yet, but constant interaction will soon ensure it. The men with Nomoe start loading up and then begin their way back to the ailing city.
[15:39] <Anshu> The plague is hard to track down; if anything, it seems to have entered the city at multiple points. Almost as if it was being deliberately seeded by someone.
[15:47] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> Around midday Nomoe returns with his wagon teams and the resources the city needs more than all the wealth of its mines right now.
[15:48] <Anshu> Shipments of food to supplement the diet of locusts, goods to assist in the mining of gems and the refining of firedust, and the drinking water. All associated with different caravans and merchant factors.
[15:48] <~Nomoe_Hideaki> He can only hope that by now the Justicar has established an organisation that will be able to make use of them efficiently.
[15:56] <Anshu> In her travels, Snow finds a dark, shadowy corner. She recognizes one of the thaumaturges recruited to assist in the effort to control the plague, speaking to someone lodged in the deepr, blacker shadows.
[15:57] <Anshu> "All right, you said you had something for me? Some kind of miracle cure component for the draughts we're to be preparing?
[15:57] <Anshu> "
[16:00] <Bright_Snow> Hidden from sight, a vulture like many of the others that circle the city she observes. Listening and watching intently
[16:00] <Anshu> "Yes," comes the one-word answer in a soft hiss. "Include a few drops of this in your draughts, and none who take it will die from the plague, not even the sickest child." A small pouch rolls across the ground to the thaumaturge's feet.
[16:01] <Anshu> The man stoops to pick it up. "And how do I know I can trust you?"
[16:01] <Anshu> "Have my supplies ever gone wrong for you before? And you're welcome to try it on yourself first, if you wish."
