Editing Almun FaShazzad:Act2 (section)

==Chiaroscuro==

Today found Kestrel, Diamond, and I back in the glorious city of Chiaroscuro. Such a place of splendors is a joy to share with compatriots, and I took it upon myself to provide our new friend with a modest tour. 

Diamond seemed a bit out of sorts as we went through town. I have a feeling that the exhuberance and flavor of the city may have been more than he was accustomed to. Not a real concern, really. His outfit unerringly marks him as a child of the Realm, and few of that land are acclamated to the vigors of our lifestyle. He will learn in time.

Over lunch I found I share a strange kinship with Diamond, much as the one with Kestrel. In some way, they remind me of bizarre dreams, of memories I've never had. The experience seems to be mutual, and perhaps is tied to our Exaltation. Perhaps all Solars share these ties. Only time will tell. Still, for the meantime it seems that Diamond shares Kestrel's and my outlook on the Guild, among other things. Given his considerable finances and our combined strength, we may finally be in position to bring our operations to an even greater scale! That the South would breathe free once again, this dream makes my head swim. Ours will be a victory told through the ages! But, I digress...

It seemed only right that we would visit the local Immaculate temple in our walk through Chiaroscuro. Hideo, the local steward of the temple, is a charming sort, and his presence is so ironically poignant that I feel compelled to introduce visitors. After a few words, the three of us took our leave from the temple to continue other pursuits. (On a side note, Hideo seemed even more frazzled than normal. I will have to look into this. Perhaps Kestrel and Diamond can be of aid.)

As luck would have it, another Realm-ling was wondering the streets. A member of one of the noble houses, Nemmons, did Diamond say? Either way, he seemed to be make a substantial amount of purchases, and no sizeable sum is spent without excitement somewhere following. So, investigation made itself imperative! With a short performance, we learned many things; First, the Realm dignitaries are preparing to have a feast, Second, dear Diamond's exploits have not cost him his sense of humor, and Finally, I simply must learn the Realm tongue.

Our meager findings here only whet my appetite for more information, so we have taken to an investigation of the goings on at the Realm embassy. This very afternoon we shall begin our search. How exciting this charade shall be! For such an audience, this performance must be particularly cunning. I will not disappoint.