Waku/Various - Scheming

Waku Motohama | A series of sharp, quick knocks sound on the door. Whoever is there is waiting for permission before they come in.
Astrid Valeriant | There's a long pause before a clipped "come in" can be heard.
Markus Aerilius: Im spying unless you want me here))
Astrid Valeriant: (I don't mind. You can join if you like, even!)
Waku Motohama || The door softly clicks open, and the pale, eternally-smiling face of Waku Motohama pokes into the room. Something about her expression seems off, though. "Oh, Miss Astrid, you /are/ here. Good. Sir Markus just told me to report to you. Are you free?"
Markus Aerilius: ill just spy Wanna see my squire in action))
Astrid Valeriant snaps a book shut with a sharp 'thud' before replacing it on the shelf. The Viera herself seems particularly irritated but that irritation isn't directed at Waku. In fact, Astrid looks over her shoulder with a smile at the au ra. "As free as one can be right now. How may I assist you?"
Waku Motohama: I have a report to make about Fallax Vi Hydrangea and the Swords of Salvation based on the inquiries I conducted today.
Waku Motohama steps into the room, her footsteps making little noise even on the wooden floor.
Astrid Valeriant gestures for the female to come in further, though she doesn't descend from the platform. Instead, Astrid offers a hand to pull Waku up. "Very well, then."
Waku Motohama takes it, planting her sole on the edge of the ledge and stepping up with a rustle of cloth.
Waku Motohama: Thank you. I appreciate it. I'll start with Fallax first - as I told Sir Markus, I've found out a bit about his personality, and I'll be upfront and warn you, he's not nice.
Astrid Valeriant clicks her tongue before humming. "I had thought as much. I suppose we were right to expect a fight."
Markus Aerilius: -sprays water-
Markus Aerilius: MT))
Waku Motohama: I heard the same adjectives used to describe him over and over again. Determined. Persuasive. Ruthless. He suffers no evil - at least, what he considers evil - and he won't show mercy to anyone in his way. Even those that might be commonly considered to be, well... innocents. Like a true Inquisitor, I suppose.
Waku Motohama heaves a massive sigh. "Though if it were just that, I wouldn't be so alarmed."
Astrid Valeriant frowns before turning from Waku. She scans the bookshelves for a moment before pulling a book from it. Then, she returns to the other female with the tome in hand. "What else have you uncovered?"
Waku Motohama: Either Fallax is an alias, or he didn't exist before the day he joined the Swords of Salvation. I can find no records of him existing before his affiliation with the organization. In fact, no record of him exists within the Inquisitors of the Astral Light, which is what the Swords are supposedly a subsection of. No hometown. No work experience. No records of transport that would suggest to me he came from somewhere else, unless it was done entirely in secret.
Astrid Valeriant gazes upon you in deep reflection.
Astrid Valeriant: "So we're either dealing with a ghost or a liar."
Waku Motohama nods, swallowing. "And he's not the only one. I can find no records on the majority of the Swords. I cannot express to you how unusual that is, even in the wake of the Calamity which destroyed many records."
Waku Motohama: And... people don't leave the Swords, either. No one ever seems to quit.
Markus Aerilius knocks on the door. "Astrid its Markus."
Astrid Valeriant turns on her heel again before pulling another book from the shelf. "That's because they kill them, I'm sure of it." Her ears perk at the door. "You may come in, Markus." She scans the spines of her books. "This is going to be a fight. A bloody one, at that."
Astrid Valeriant: "How much do you know of the Holy Knights of Ishgard? Either of you."
Markus Aerilius strides in. "Not much other than they are bad news."
Waku Motohama looks over her shoulder, nodding to Markus. "Hello again. I just finished my report." Then, back to Astrid. "Enough to find them intimidating, but I've never had direct dealings with them."
Astrid Valeriant traces along the books. "The Holy Knights believe so fervently in their ideals that they are willing to do -anything- to see them through. Did you know how inquisitors judged people before the Dragonsong War?" She opens a book, speaking in an almost bored voice as she reads. "They threw people off of cliffs. If the person was guilty, they turned into a dragon and flew away. If they were innocent, well..." Astrid shuts the book before dropping it onto the platform at her feet.
Astrid Valeriant: "I would not be surprised to find that these 'inquisitors' operate in much the same way."
Markus Aerilius frowned. "Aye zealots are a handful"
Waku Motohama: How eminently logical. The facts are most certaintly in favor of that assessment. In fact, I... am sure if I spent a day looking, I could give you the names of some of those who died by their hand."
Astrid Valeriant inhales slowly. "Markus, I want this place armed to the teeth. Inside and outside."
Markus Aerilius: "The question is why would the staff be associated with such a group. Already done. Theres knifes and guns placed throughout the chambers."
Waku Motohama glances at Markus, then to Astrid. "Yesterday, I was speaking to Miss Tarva about possible evacuation protocols. She mentioned the salvaged Garlean technology that is present within the workshop. She also said that it could be utilized to... great destructive effect. I think we have enough information to suggest that such measures are not uncalled for."
Astrid Valeriant glances over her shoulder and nods. "A list of innocents who died is ideal. We're going to make them pay." With that, she turns on her heel to face the pair. "Corvus told me that they went because we needed to rebuild our connections. That is why they went. A trap, most likely." Astrid nods to Waku. "We should be prepared for the worst."
Markus Aerilius: "I for once agree. This is not a casual visit anymore. I want members fully armed. Be damned protocols. They come into /our/ home they should know what they face."
Waku Motohama: I'll speak to those in the workshop. E'ko has been making some preparations as well. I steered her away from the more... uh, frightening ones. Would you like me to load provisions into the airship, in case that has to be used to make an escape?"
Astrid Valeriant nods to you.
Astrid Valeriant: "If it comes to that, we may need to run. If it comes to a -fight-, we need to leave one alive. Their leader, if possible. I want to know where they are. And I needn't be a Holy Knight to get the information I want."
Markus Aerilius nods in agreement.
Waku Motohama bows. "I will see that it is done. Should... we speak to some of the members? Make specific combat arrangements - who secures the path of exodus, who protects the rear...?"
F'ennelise Tkhar: if it helps with the visual at all, the docks are lower down on the mountain cliff since we have that to work with :>, lots of space for our ships ))
F'ennelise Tkhar: *drydocks, airships, et cetera ))
Astrid Valeriant smiles. "I have a small plan for that. I've taken the liberty of procuring a new set of linkpearls for our members. I'll be passing them out before the meeting, as our previous ones are no doubt compromised."
Markus Aerilius: "Excellent Idea astrid, why didnt I think of that."
Astrid Valeriant: "Because you've been doing our paperwork and leaving me free to scheme."
Astrid Valeriant smiles at Markus Aerilius.
Waku Motohama takes a sharp inhalation through her nose. "That's... the third thing I wanted to ask about. I know that this organization has dealt with a traitor in very recent memory. Should I - " Waku closes her eyes. The smile finally drops. "Should I... try to figure out if anyone is... working against us? From within?"
Markus Aerilius: "Which is complete by the way. So Im free to scheme as well." he stopped. "You mean Nuala."
Waku Motohama: I do. I - really don't like thinking like this. In fact, I'd prefer not to. I didn't want to dive this deep into paranoia. I hate it. But if it's necessary, then I will.
Markus Aerilius: "Theres no need. Shes dead."
Astrid Valeriant shakes her head. "Our membership is trustworthy. Nuala was an...outlier. Though I know Corvus has not endeared himself to some of our membership and some might be hasty in saying he's given us away, I know that is not the case. My Lord and Lady taught me well in reading others. I've been keeping my eye on all of us, just to be sure."
Astrid Valeriant smiles at you.
Astrid Valeriant: "Call it Ishgardian politics."
Markus Aerilius smiles at the two. "I am glad for your due diligence both of you."
Waku Motohama lets out a very long sigh - like she's letting all of the tension escape from her shoulders. When she smiles again, it's real. "I'm glad. I'm really glad. I hate having to suspect the people I consider allies. It hurts. Doing it all alone, being scared of people all alone. So thank you."
Astrid Valeriant: "Now, now. What if I was the traitor?"
Astrid Valeriant laughs at you.
Markus Aerilius: "We'd be doomed. Youre too good at your job."
Astrid Valeriant bursts out laughing at Markus Aerilius.
Waku Motohama answers with complete seriousness. "Then you'd kill me. You've already won, and I'd accept that. I'll admit that I am too weak to think like that for the sake of my own survival."
Waku Motohama: ...Which is why I'd only do it if you asked it of me, for the sake of those I care about.
Astrid Valeriant: "Goodness me. Waku, I do hope Markus imparts upon you the lesson that there is -always- a way to win. Even when it seems the most bleak."
Markus Aerilius: "Ill add it to the docket."
Astrid Valeriant clears her throat. "Speaking of, Markus, I'd like to ensure that our squires are dutifully taken care of by our knights. As they are less experienced, they should be the first to withdraw if the battle becomes too serious. Additionally, I think it would be wise to introduce a codeword for a line of attack should it come to that."
Waku Motohama lets out a soft laugh. "I... know that with my head; it's why I try to stay so positive, generally speaking. But I know in my heart I need to work on that. So until then, thank you Miss Astrid. I'm in your debt."
Markus Aerilius: "Aye agreed. Ive already asked Waku to stand back behind our knights. Though with our most powerful out of commission I am worried. Not that we are unskilled, just we have a few untested still. And what do you suggest for a code word?"
Astrid Valeriant smiles gently at Waku before returning her gaze to Markus - the smile wiped so cleanly from her face that it was as if the strings holding it up had been cut. "I can sing to provide us additional power. As for our codeword..." She hums in thought. "Guardian."
Markus Aerilius: "Good choice we should let other know of it."
Astrid Valeriant nods to Markus Aerilius.
Waku Motohama: Guardian. Hah - I like that.
Astrid Valeriant smiles at you.
Astrid Valeriant: "The guardian is in her element and all is right with the world. Or something like that."
Giligii Malarigii rap-tap-tapped on the door. "H-hullo? Anyone in? Can we enter?"
Astrid Valeriant looks shocked.
Waku Motohama: Hmm...?
Astrid Valeriant: "When did I become so popular?"
Astrid Valeriant leans to the side. "Enter, please."
Waku Motohama shifts, the hem of her coat fluttering slightly as she turns to face the door.
Altani Dataq'kahkol growls under her breath, massaging a bandaged left hand. "Oi, 's Markus in here?!" She sounds furious.
Markus Aerilius: "Since we became staff." He laughed.
Astrid Valeriant laughs.
Giligii Malarigii waddled in alongside Altani, making soothing gestures. "E-easy there! No need t'start gettin' loud. They can help."
Markus Aerilius: "Aye I am here. Whats the matter."
Waku Motohama: Seems like a lot has been happening the past few days...
Altani Dataq'kahkol: "That shite-eatin' skinny bastard fucker, aye."
Astrid Valeriant steps closer with a frown. "That had better not be an injury."
Markus Aerilius: "Rhys" He said under his breath.
Giligii Malarigii gulped. "Sh-she means dat lanky, twee elf what with them long legs."
Waku Motohama mumbles to herself, "...Mister Lowly-Worm...?"
Markus Aerilius hops down from the perch.
Altani Dataq'kahkol grunts and nods. "Snuck int'a m'room. Slept in m'fuckin' bed. Usin' m'damned kitchen'n bath. He better be *well* glad I only broke m'own hand, he better!"
Astrid Valeriant buries her face in disbelief.
Astrid Valeriant: "Halone help us..."
Markus Aerilius: "Hes been a right pain in my ass since he got here."
Giligii Malarigii chimed in. "S'true! She even asked'im t'leave all nice like."
Giligii Malarigii: "Man didn't budge. Not until it was on his own terms."
Waku Motohama: Wait, hold on - Altani, what's this about breaking your hand?
Astrid Valeriant sighs deeply. "Altani, we'll need to find Kowa and get that fixed immediately. I need you able to fight by tomorrow evening. And despite the fact that Rhys has become a headache for us all, any extra bodies are a boon. Even if that body houses a very obnoxious personality."
Giligii Malarigii let out a gasp. "You mean it's all well and good t'have some spindly bugger violatin' privacy?!"
Altani Dataq'kahkol: "Punched a bit'a the stonework, I did. Stones harder'n m'hand." She growls, flicking her tail and turning to Astrid. "Aye, what Gil said."
Markus Aerilius shook his head still in disbelief and anger.
Astrid Valeriant stares at the two - her eyes going cold and sharp. "Perhaps you are unaware but we're a day away from what will most likely be an assault on the Order. For all we know, F'ennelise, Light, Sigmund, and C-Corvus are already -dead-. It is my duty to protect all of you and in combat, you take every advantage you can."
Astrid Valeriant: "So yes. For right now, there will be no punishment handed down. Right now, we need to band together to repel the wolves at our door or we will surely be slaughtered."
Altani Dataq'kahkol grunts and turns away, tapping the pearl hanging from her horn.
Waku Motohama puts her face in her hands, letting out a sigh. "Again?! I thought you got padded gauntlets for exactly the purpose of not breaking your hands! Oh dear..."
Waku Motohama steps down off the platform, approaching Altani.
Waku Motohama: I'm so sorry that your room was trespassed upon like that. I know from experience how horrible it feels to have someone break into your space.
Altani Dataq'kahkol looks to Waku, shooting a glare past her at Astrid. "Not a single damned thing f'the fuckin' piss-skinny knife-ears that decided t'sneak int'a m'room?"
Giligii Malarigii felt the blood drain from his face. But the man wasn't willing to budge too much. "No. Didn't hear nuthin' about dat. But some freak struttin' about grating against folks and their nerves, sleepin' in their beds and causing rows ain't gonna help nobody neither." The lalafell took a long moment for himself, inhaling and exhaling slowly. "Fergive me ferk speakin' outta turn but iffen we're desperate...fine. But if he sets foot in my room after I lock it then I swear he'll be leavin' without-"
Giligii Malarigii: "-his legs."
Astrid Valeriant shoots a glare right back at Altani. "Well, maybe you can bloody well enjoy you're room when you're dead, yes?"
Waku Motohama: Miss Astrid isn't saying that he'll be let off without punishment. It's just - we have some things to prepare before tomorrow.
Waku Motohama tries to calm the raging Xaela down.
Astrid Valeriant: "Or you can -trust- me to ensure that we are carried through this battle. You know I can lead us to victory, Altani. You saw it yourself in the Forelands. Have faith."
Astrid Valeriant: (your*)
Markus Aerilius walks up and places a comforting hand on astrids shoulder. "We can do this all. Just have faith in us. I apologize we have a ruffian in our midst."
Altani Dataq'kahkol: "If I die, I die," is her only response. "Will'a the Mother'n all'a that."
Giligii Malarigii raised his hands in a placating fashion, trying to remember his manner exercises. "Look, tell us about dis upcoming peril dat's lookin' t'smack us in the bollocks. Can't help iffen we don't know jack."
Waku Motohama leans in to Altani and murmurs, "...I mean, did you - did you see how Miss Astrid forced him to beg two days ago...?"
Astrid Valeriant: "-No one- is dying under -my- care."
Waku Motohama glances down at Gil, and then looks over at Astrid and Markus.
Astrid Valeriant pulls her gloves taunt against her hands, heaving for air slightly after yelling. "Are we all quite clear?"
Markus Aerilius nods in agreement careful of Astrids Ire.
Giligii Malarigii massages his ears, not to alleviate pain but to serve as a minor distraction. He certainly didn't look clear but was waiting for an answer and tried to keep his trap shut.
Waku Motohama: Miss Astrid, would you like me to take these two to the infirmary and do some immediate damage control while you take the opportunity to go over the situation with Sir Markus?
Waku Motohama is definitely sensing that Astrid is... at the end of her rope here.
Markus Aerilius sighs and tries to debrief the group as best he could. ((for brevity)) of the situation and let them all know about the Code word :Guardian."
Giligii Malarigii shook his head, showing no intention of moving. Not yet.
Altani Dataq'kahkol flicks her tail, growling softly. She says nothing for a moment. "Gil, Waku, someone 'oo ain' me," her accent was extremely thick at this point. "Someone tell Kowa where we are, if'n y'woul'." She speaks through clenched teeth.
Astrid Valeriant slides her gaze to Waku. "Not until I have impressed upon everyone here that the situation is dire. We do not know if they are alive or dead. And it is up to Markus and me to ensure that you are all cared for. I understand that you feel violated, Altani, but his punishment must wait until the storm has passed."
Waku Motohama hesitates, but then decides that - perhaps - getting Kowa here as soon as possible, rather than trying to alleviate the tension in other ways, would be best. She speaks into the linkshell.
Astrid Valeriant: "I know that F'ennelise attempted to tease us about burning the manor down. However, I will not allow infighting right now to reduce us to cinders to be crushed beneath the boots of these 'Swords'. We will not burn to ash. Not while I can draw breath to prevent it."
Waku Motohama leans in, murmuring something to Altani.
Giligii Malarigii let out the breath he'd been holding. Priorities. Hands fell from the lalafell's ears, a palm sliding over the pommel of his weapon. "Pardon my Ishgardian-gutter slang but th'two of youse look like yer about to shit literal foundation bricks. Please jus' tell us how bad dis is and what we can do t'prepare. M'sure tensions will ease with occupied hands."
Markus Aerilius: "Agreed. We have an extremely tenuous circumstance about us. We need you all willing and ready.:
Altani Dataq'kahkol takes a breath.  She goes back to crushing her bandana ball, trembling with anger.
Kowa Brimaine knocks lightly at the door before entering the office, stopping short at the amount of people. "I wasn't expecting a veritable crowd, but. What's happened?"
Altani Dataq'kahkol holds up a bandaged left hand, saying nothing. She stares at Waku before nodding slowly.
Waku Motohama mouths 'thank you' before looking to Kowa. "There was an altercation. Altani managed to refrain from punching someone and instead punched a wall. She could use treatment."
Waku Motohama nods to Altani.
Astrid Valeriant pinches the bridge of her nose, nearly trembling under Markus' hand for a moment. However, she exhales swiftly and, upon lowering her hand, is full Ishgardian ice. "Preparations have already been made. We are about to find ourselves dealing with a group of knights that have taken our leaders and pronounced us heretics."
Markus Aerilius: "This is a posibility but we want you all prepared for the worst."
Giligii Malarigii gestures to his fellow squires. "Then what can /we/ do? Aside from check our gear? I ain't no knight but there's gotta be sumthin' we can do t'help?"
Kowa Brimaine 's eyebrow raises, her examination of Altani's hand practiced autopilot. "Not the first time I've been called that," is the quiet mutter. "Are we sure it is a hostage situation? I've heard nothing since the announcement, so forgive my ignorance. And what kind of altercation?"
Altani Dataq'kahkol glances back to Kowa for a brief moment, utter hatred in her eyes. She looks away and continues to work her balldana.
Waku Motohama looks to Astrid, then points down to Gil. "Can I use him to help accomplish some of the orders I received? Since I haven't finalized everything I discussed with you, yet."
Astrid Valeriant: "Corvus wouldn't go silent on me. I do not know if he is dead or alive but I know he is unable to contact me and that is enough for me to prepare for the worst."
Astrid Valeriant nods to you.
Waku Motohama nods, then looks down to Gil. "After we're done here, you'll be helping me - if that's alright? I can give you the rundown of what needs done."
Giligii Malarigii let out a small sigh of relief. Something could finally occupy his hands. He dipped his head to Waku. "Whatever youse need, m'ere."
Markus Aerilius relaxes a bit feeling the tension start to leave the room.
Waku Motohama: I'm very grateful. The hands will be helpful. I'm not sure if we've met entirely properly? I'm Detective Motohama.
Waku Motohama: Waku, if you'd like to be informal.
Giligii Malarigii grunted, "Giligii Malarigii, call me Gil. Manservant and retainer at yer service. Let's get dis shit taken care of, aye?"
Waku Motohama: Retainer? Oh, absolutely wonderful. You'll be completely perfect.
Giligii Malarigii blinked. Him? Perfect? For something? Gil could feel the tension dribble down to the soles of his shoes, elated at the prospect of helping.
Kowa Brimaine || The chronometer's ticking seems all the louder as moments pass with few words. "What. Happened?"
Waku Motohama gives him a warm, affirming smile. Good, very good. Now, all that needs done if getting Altani all sorted. She looks to Kowa, whose question has not been answered as of yet. "It has... something to do with Rhys. There was an intrusion in Altani's room.
Waku Motohama: Will you need anything to take care of her injury properly?
Markus Aerilius: "Are  you alright?" Markus whispered into Astrids ear. "I mean i know you arent okay i just worry."
Kowa Brimaine rolls her eyes. "Is pity for his life choices enough to pretend he's aught but a childish liability?"
Kowa Brimaine: "It's been nary a week and I'd already see him out. And no, but thank you, Miss Motohama."
Astrid Valeriant flexes her fingers slightly. "I'm quite alright. No need for concern, Markus. It's just a battle. Like one hundred thousand others before it."
Kowa Brimaine || There is the soft glow of a Benefic.
Waku Motohama: It's not that. We've just got to get through Saturday first - as Miss Astrid said, the situation of our compatriots suggests foul play. After assessing the situation, I agree fully with her.
F'ennelise Tkhar: if it makes you feel better, his mentor Will whip him into shape when that's all set ))
Giligii Malarigii looked up to his designated knight. She looked to be in no mood for any more questions. Now that he'd had a moment to settle, the gravity of the situation was starting to lap at the back of his mind. He'd have to make it up to his superiors another time but now he had his orders. "H-here, how's about th'four of us give them two a bit of breathing room, aye? We can talk more about dis sh-...stuff outside."
Markus Aerilius nodded unsure if he was satisfied with the answer but he wasnt going to press.
Kowa Brimaine glances between Altani and Astrid, giving a slow nod. "I trust such an incident will not fall through the cracks of chaos," she says, meeting Markus' gaze, "but for now I can accept that."
Astrid Valeriant clicks her tongue, opening her mouth to respond. In the end, though, she thinks better of it.
Waku Motohama looks up to the two of them. Have things been suitably de-escalated now?
Altani Dataq'kahkol softs at Kowa's healing. She moves closer to the other woman, twitching.
Markus Aerilius: "It will be dealt with. After we go to war with a bunch of zealots."
Kowa Brimaine gives the Roegadyn a firm nod. "I will trust you both, then."
Astrid Valeriant: "If you wouldn't mind, Markus and I have one final strategy to discuss."
Giligii Malarigii blinked. "....I thought dat paper said stuff about th'Flames....Oh jeeze..."
Kowa Brimaine: "Do let me know if there is more I can do to assist in preparations."
Waku Motohama: Of course.
Markus Aerilius: "Be prepared for anything."
Waku Motohama gives them a salute, then looks to the three. "I might have some things, Miss Kowa."
Kowa Brimaine smiles at the Raen before gently taking Altani's elbow. "Outside, then."
Kowa Brimaine: "I would like to hear about them."
Waku Motohama smiles, then gestures to the door.
Kowa Brimaine gives her customary curtsey to Astrid and Markus before leaving, gently coaxing Altani with her.
Altani Dataq'kahkol flinches at the touch before leaving.
Waku Motohama pauses before she leaves. "They're just anxious. Don't worry. We trust your leadership, both of you. No one will die."
Kowa Brimaine gets the teapot going before gently coaxing Altani into the back chambers. "Excuse us a moment. I would set her hand. Please, help yourselves to snacks."
Waku Motohama: ...If you'll give me just /one/ moment...
Giligii Malarigii waddled through the door, a long sigh slipping past his needle teeth. "Ye-ow-zaaaa...."
Waku Motohama leans back against the door, pushes her hands to her face, and lets out a long, deep sigh.
Altani Dataq'kahkol finally speaks. "If I *ever* see 'im 'gain, I'm killin 'im."
Giligii Malarigii moves to take a seat. "Waku, right? Les' talk about work, aye?"
Kowa Brimaine: "Back. Come."
Waku Motohama: ...Please for the love - no, no. If Miss Astrid punched a wall, I'll take care of that later.
Waku Motohama: Yes! Work.
Kowa Brimaine: "Tell me what happened," is the quiet plea.
Waku Motohama: Alright, then. So - there were some developments today that I'll clarify with the three of you after Miss Altani has been treated. They'll also make what the two of us are going to be doing make slightly more sense.
Waku Motohama: In short: I need some assistance figuring out how to properly provision the company airship in case a sudden retreat is warranted. Food, water, etcetera. Can you help me with that, along with helping me transport such things to the ship?
Altani Dataq'kahkol takes a breath and rests her head against Kowa. "Went t'visit Will. Came back, found the whoreson in m'kitchen, cookin'. I hope he chokes on it, I do." She twitches. "Said he'd been usin' o-" She pauses, shooting a terrified glance at the door. "The bed, aye. 'n m'bath. Got all angry, punched the *hells* out'a one'a them pillars in m'room. M'hand ain' better'n stone, it ain'."
Giligii Malarigii let himself sink into the cushion, the crushing atmorsphere of thinly-veiled despair having been left in the other room. Gil nodded as the au ra spoke, fat fingers stroking his chin. "I ain't got many favors left to burn but I am good at digging," he said, jerking a thumb outside. "I bury a lot of things, mostly coin. But I've got a few spots dat can be unearthed early."
Giligii Malarigii: "What is th'biggest priority? We ain't got much time and there is no way we can expect t'get everythin'."
Kowa Brimaine casts another Benefic and begins to set the hand with bandage, dark eyes going dead for a long moment before softening with empathy. "Knowing what I know of him," she says softly, "I have no cause to trust him whatsoever. From a tactical standpoint I understand the urgency of other things, but there /will/ be an answer for his behavior. I have Markus' word, and I believe that worth something."
Kowa Brimaine: "We won't simply let this go, but we have to get through tomorrow. Can you do that for me?"
Waku Motohama covers her mouth, laughing slightly. "--Oh my! That sounds interesting. Well, as generous as that is, we won't need to dip into your personal coffers, I imagine. It's mostly figuring out what we have in the store room and tallying up how best to aquire everything else from there, getting it all to the ship before the meeting on Saturday, /and/ keeping the entire business as quiet as possible."
Waku Motohama: Our first priority regarding provisions would be water, then food. I'll also be circling back with some of the workshop crew - they'll likely be helping us with armaments.
Altani Dataq'kahkol takes a breath. "I'll do what I can, I will." She frowns. "A... An' only f'y', aye."
Giligii Malarigii nodded, practically a kobold in every sense save for his flesh. "I don't jus' bury coin. And I know fer a fact dat there's a pair of water purifiers fer sale in Limsa. They givem' t'sailors. As fer food, rice is th'easist t'store and is cheap, what with Kugane imports. I uh...I watch th'boards a lot..." He sheepishly rubs the back of his neck. "Iffen you can take inventory and pearl me what we're missin', we might have just enough time."
Waku Motohama: ...You are perfect!
Waku Motohama can't contain herself. "Absolutely perfect! Thank you for walking in; you've saved me."
Giligii Malarigii reddened, turning several shades darker. The lalafell quickly busied himself with an ear. "Th-thank you," he coughed. "Fink n-nuthin' of it...:
Kowa Brimaine: "Come. Get through this and then you can get some rest."
Waku Motohama: Oh, but I think everything of it! Really, it's wonderful!
Altani Dataq'kahkol smiles. Her voice is soft, yet ragged from the earlier conflict. "Aye. 'ppreciated. M'bed..." She growls. "M'bed's gonna be broken, burnt, all'a that. I'll get a new one, swear t'that."
Kowa Brimaine gives her an approving look before guiding her back through the door.
Kowa Brimaine: "My apologies. Do either of you prefer milk or sugar?"
Giligii Malarigii buried his head in his hands, a funny noise trickling past his fingers. Eventually his head lifted and he spoke."...Speakin' o'rest, you seem up-t'date with things goin' on. How long have you been runnin' about t'prepare fer tomorrow?" Without skipping a beat, Gil's head snapped to Kowa. "I beg of youse, gimme it blacker than th'sewage under boot heels. Dis is gonna be a long night," he said with a snort, not deterred in the slightest.
Giligii Malarigii: "Wait...tea, right. Sugar?"
Waku Motohama: Oh, I'd love a little milk with my tea.
Kowa Brimaine laughs softly at the lalafell's comment. "Yes, tea. You'd do well in Ishgard."
Kowa Brimaine: "Milk, of course."
Kowa Brimaine gets four cups on the table in short order. "So. You said you had ideas, Waku?"
Giligii Malarigii put his head back in his hands. He mumbled, "You'd be surprised," as his face smushed into the digits.
Waku Motohama is blissfully unaware of what she's going to Giligii. Or maybe she's just pretending. "...I'll admit, I didn't sleep, but I'll take a nap when I need it."
Waku Motohama: Please, there's no need to be concerned for me. I've worked longer hours than this on cases.
Waku Motohama: Yes - Miss Kowa, I wanted to ask you about your proficiency with shields and barrier spells.
Giligii Malarigii eventually settled, praise the quickest way to his shriveled heart. "Understood." He looked between Waku and Kowa, eager for details. In the space between words, the diminutive fiend wracked his brains for the recent postings. Water was easy with the purifiers but food would be heavy and it still had to be delivered. Not to mention the need for medical supplies. Think, think!
Kowa Brimaine makes a quiet, thoughtful noise. "I am proficient, yes. Half of an astrologian's sects involves such."
Altani Dataq'kahkol flicks her tail, never taking her eyes off Kowa. "What d'y'need me t'do?"
Waku Motohama: How long do they last? How subtle are they in appearence? Is there a way that, say, certain people could be... pre-shielded for a time?
Waku Motohama takes her tea-cup, and the player is assuming that Kowa is a fancy person with saucers. She blows lightly on the rim of it before taking a delicate sip.
Waku Motohama: Altani - if Miss Kowa tells me you're fit for it, you'd be a help with transport, loading, and potentially helping me wrangle the... well. The mechanics.
Kowa Brimaine nods. "They do tend to involve some light, but yes, unless otherwise dispelled they last until they have been damaged sufficiently to break."
Waku Motohama: How much light? Is there a way they could be applied without revealing that they've been applied?
Altani Dataq'kahkol briefly looks to Waku. "Aye," her tone is still flat.
Kowa Brimaine: "Not much, simply the brief spark of the incantation taking hold. Unless one is aetherically sensitive, I do not believe they would be detected - but then, if we are dealing with inquisitors that is a possibility very much on the table."
Giligii Malarigii snatched up his cup while the trio made plans. Magic was way out of his realm, his ether thin enough to begin with. The man's face quickly lit up. "Potions! Who can make dem magicky potions? The ones dat give you a etherly-boost?"
Giligii Malarigii grimaced. There was no way in the seven hells he could afford any, the prices much too high. But ingredients....
Kowa Brimaine smiles at Gil, picking up the untouched fourth teacup and gently nudging it into Altani's hands. "I can. It might take a sleepless night, but provided I could find ingredients it could be plausible."
Giligii Malarigii: "I'm gonna piss in th'wind and say dat you ain't th'only one who might need to slurp down a few if things get bad. Do you need anything t'make'em?"
Waku Motohama: I'll check with Miss Astrid and Sir Markus first, but I have a feeling that would be helpful. ...Hm! Potions...
Giligii Malarigii: "M'already headed to Limsa to grab purifiers."
Altani Dataq'kahkol takes the cup, sipping at her tea. She mutters a soft 'Thank you' to Kowa. Surprisingly, her accent was... normal?
Waku Motohama: I wish to state that I do not want anyone to have an entirely sleepless night.
Waku Motohama: If they do, they must have a nap before the meeting tomorrow.
Kowa Brimaine rattles off a decent list of alchemical supplies before glancing at Waku. "I will rest at some point. I give you my word."
Waku Motohama nods. "Good, good. We can also see if anyone else is skilled in the art - I am new to the company, so I do not know everyone's skillsets, but I can certainly check in the files."
Giligii Malarigii mumbled, "If we don't sleep, th'twee shmuck can't sneak in." Gil didn't need to take notes, the folds of his brain already twisting and turning as he flitted through the board postings from earlier. He gave Kowa a nod.
Kowa Brimaine looks thoughtful. "There is a genuine balance to be struck here with the shields, while we revisit our earlier topic," she muses. "What angle is being played? Do Astrid and Markus intend to have a facade of respectability about this? Would having shields already cast imply something that could be turned against us?"
Kowa Brimaine nods at Gil, eyes bright with approval.
Altani Dataq'kahkol flicks her tail, remaining silent and just sipping at her tea.
Waku Motohama smiles brightly to the group of them. "If that /fucking asshat/ sneaks into anyone's rooms, I will personally turn him into a scarecrow." She - she swore? What the hell! Without pausing, she promptly addresses Kowa. "Alright. Being brief..."
Giligii Malarigii stared at Waku as if she were a potted plant. A potted plant that had just uprooted itself, marched across the room, and hopped in a freshly-drawn bath.
Altani Dataq'kahkol grunts. " 'ppreciated, Waku."
Waku Motohama: Initially, the plan was to mantain some semblence of surprise by appearing to be unsuspicious of their motives. However, today I made a report to Sir Markus and Miss Astrid that... changed the dynamics of things slightly. I cannot tell you its contents; I'm sorry. I can tell you that its lead to the formation of evacuation plans - which is why I'm figuring out how to prepare the airship in case we suddenly need to leave - and... a codeword, to signal a line of attack.
Waku Motohama: Guardian.
Kowa Brimaine: "Can you tell me from whence this report came, at the very least?"
Waku Motohama: Sir Markus did say to me that he thought it'd be best if we were all blatantly armed, but I don't know what his stance on shields will be.
Waku Motohama: ...I did some work today. That's really all I can say right now - I'm sorry.
Giligii Malarigii grimaced. A standard ether potion consisted of tinolqa mistletoe, water, a handful of shards...and an imp wing, according to Kowa's recitation. Where was he going to get some of those? At a good price?! The mention of evacuation and attacks snapped Gil back to the conversation at hand. Things certainly sounded dire and he turned a shade lighter. "...We'll make do."
Waku Motohama: Before the meeting, Miss Astrid will be passing out a new set of linkpearls. She's worried our current ones are compromised. A valid concern; I fear the same.
Kowa Brimaine hums, seeming to accept this. "If the situation is that dire, then I doubt my casting astromantic shields before our guests arrive will be the spark that ignites the keg, as it were. And...she may be right."
Waku Motohama: ...I can tell you this much.
Waku Motohama: The man that is coming to visit us is not a good person.
Kowa Brimaine: "Is he truly of the Flames, or was that a cover?"
Giligii Malarigii: "Something about the Blades, aye? Anyone tied to them or th'Market Coalition ain't nuthin' but trouble."
Giligii Malarigii: *flames)
Giligii Malarigii: "But how 'not good' does youse mean?"
Waku Motohama closes her eyes. "The Inquisitors of the Astral Light - of which the Swords of Salvation, our visitors, are under the umbrella of - are associated with the Flames, yes."
Waku Motohama: I have confirmed that. But...
Waku Motohama: ...Miss Astrid compared them to the Ishgardian Inquisitors. And she is not wrong.
Waku Motohama: That is what I mean by not good.
Waku Motohama: Does... that convey the picture well enough?
Kowa Brimaine: "It does. Thank you, Waku." Her fang presses firmly into her lip a moment before she straightens. "I will spend the late bells on aether potions, and I will cast shields prior to our guests' arrival. Altani, are you fine aiding with the airship?"
Markus Aerilius: FYI the companys potions are fully stocked thanks to Markus' Alchemy and deliveries from Sigmunds connections))
Kowa Brimaine: HUH good to know actually))
Altani Dataq'kahkol nods to Kowa. "Aye," she gives a small smile. "If that's what y'ask'a me."
Giligii Malarigii canted his head to the side. "Dat sounds awful Holy. How did we get them t'look at....Know what? Nevermind." There was plenty of work to do and he had his task. Gil would get answers later, or he wouldn't. It wasn't the end of his world but tomorrow might be if they didn't act fast. "Thanks fer th'tea, Kowa. I'll get as much as I can but it might not be much. Rice and purifiers come firs'." Grubby fingers fished out a cigar from within the folds of Gil's blouse, plopping it between his teeth
Kowa Brimaine: "Do not overstress yourself. You are aiding more than enough."
Waku Motohama: Thank you. Again, you're wonderful. After my business here is concluded, I will check the stores and Sir Markus to -- oh! Sir Markus!
Giligii Malarigii offered the group a dip of the head. "Dis ain't nuthin', pal. I've been itchin' t'get my hands dirty and it all starts with doin' what I do best. Thanks tho'."
Kowa Brimaine: "Ser Markus. Is...Astrid well?"
Markus Aerilius reache to knock on the door but it was open. "May I enter?"
Kowa Brimaine: "Of course. Tea?"
Markus Aerilius: "Tea would be lovely."
Waku Motohama lifts up her teacup, smiling with perfect Waku cheer.
Kowa Brimaine squeezes Altani's arm before drifting back to the teapot. "Milk and sugar?"
Markus Aerilius: "Astrid is well. Shes resting as should you all. But im hear to answer what questions I can. Yes please."
Giligii Malarigii grimaced, the unlit cigar wiggling between his needle teeth. Tonight was his second meeting with Astrid and he hadn't made the best impression. The man's brow furrowed before giving his head a shake. Problems for later. Gil dipped his head to Markus, moving to slip past. "M'sorry but I'll catch up later. Got a cart to catch. Good night t'youse all..."
Kowa Brimaine nods, handing him a perfectly steeped teacup. "Waku had the idea of astromantic shields before our...guests arrive, as added protection. I wanted your thoughts on how best to play this."
Markus Aerilius: "Can you hide them to activate upon will? I do not want to overly alert our /esteemed/ guests."
Kowa Brimaine: "They will last under my aether until they are broken, though having someone aetherically sensitive arrive is a concern. I certain can cast them immediately if needed."
Markus Aerilius ponders a moment and sips his tea. "Perhaps Immediately would be better.  I wouldnt doubt they have aether users with them. We know not thier numbers either. We however will not permit an army in our home."
Kowa Brimaine gestures for him to make himself comfortable. "There has to at least be the thinnest veneer of civility before everything falls apart, I imagine."
Kowa Brimaine: "I doubt they would be that obvious."
Waku Motohama: As a side note, we were discussing having those in attendance outfitted with potions. Given our stores, is that feasible? Miss Kowa has offered her alchemical assistance, should we have the materials.
Waku Motohama: ...And have need of extras of anything.
Markus Aerilius: "Correct, After all they are coming to our home on our terms for this visit. We do not know what they have planned. Hense the tenuous situation." He turned to waku, "Our stores are stocked and active. Ive taken care of that. Any extras would be welcome."
Altani Dataq'kahkol flicks her tail, finishing her tea and idly drumming her fingers on the side of the cup.
Waku Motohama: Wonderful! I'll prepare kits for everyone - I think they'd be hid in our uniforms easily enough. Anything additional we need, I'll communicate with you Miss Kowa and with Mister Gil for the resources. Does that sound sensible?
Kowa Brimaine: "It does, yes. I will have a deck or two up my sleeves as well if my astroglobe is too cumbersome to hide." A wry smile. "Might I suggest in a lamp?"
Markus Aerilius: "There is a gambit at play here. Astrid will act as head of household and I a regular member. Should things go south, She will hold the line while we make our escape. That is an order am I clear."
Kowa Brimaine 's mouth thins, though the flash of worry in her eyes betrays that it is concern, not defiance. "Understood."
Waku Motohama nods. "Yes. Ah - I informed them of the code word. I imagine that will trigger the escape?"
Markus Aerilius: "That is for attack. There will be no code word for retreat other than me yelling for us to get the hell out of there."
Waku Motohama: ...Hehe! Alright, that works well enough.
Waku Motohama: Miss Kowa, if you need any help fashioning an astroglobe lamp, that could be a fun crafts project for Saturday - but it may also be hidden behind the bar.
Kowa Brimaine: "For the sake of convenience, I will settle for behind the bar."
Markus Aerilius: "If it helps theres a hidden compartment I installed a while back. Its behind the wine glasses. Just pull the forth from the left and it will click open."
Waku Motohama: A man after my own heart. I love a good secret hatch. Do we have any secret passages?
Kowa Brimaine: "The more I learn about you, Ser Markus, the more intrigued I become. Understood."
Waku Motohama pauses. A beat. "Wait, hold on, /do/ we have any secret passages?"
Markus Aerilius: "Sadly non that I am aware of." He smiled. "Though we should install one one of these days."
Waku Motohama: I will draw up plans!
Waku Motohama: ...
Waku Motohama: ...Later!
Markus Aerilius: "After all this. It would be an excellent Idea." he smiled.
Waku Motohama: Secret passages are the true love of all detectives!! Finding one makes the impossible possible! Locked room mysteries are broken with a casual shift of a book! Its the ultimate "Haha, gotcha!"
Kowa Brimaine promptly treats Waku to half of a Face Journey before turning her attention back to Markus. "Then I think we have a plan."
Kowa Brimaine: "If there is aught else you think of beforehand, do let me know. I would be happy to assist."
Waku Motohama will make sure - whenever your expectations of her are even slightly raised - to promptly send them crashing to the floor.
Markus Aerilius: "Any further questions or worries I can allay. I realize we are leaning heavily on you all. Mostly being newly squired but this is the Knights. Its kinda how it goes."
Kowa Brimaine: "Need is need. We will cope."
Waku Motohama: Didn't sign up to make flower crowns. I mean - I totally would, after the danger's passed.
Markus Aerilius: "One of these days we will get  you all the flower crowns you can muster." he smiled.
Waku Motohama tilts her head and smiles. "I'll see how high I can stack them on my head. But I expect a homecooked meal first!" She laughs. "...Anyway, I think that is all my questions. I'll likely have some more after checking the store-room. The airship will be loaded up by the afternoon, so we'll be fine if we need to escape..."
Waku Motohama nods to herself with an 'mm'. "Yeah, that can definitely get pulled together..."
Kowa Brimaine nods in acknowledgment to the Raen before her ear twitches in Markus' direction. "Not to revisit a tense topic, but...if Rhys intends to be on our side, he needs to be someone that others can have faith in."
Kowa Brimaine: "Both tomorrow and afterwards. I don't intend to forget the need for him to be shown as such."
Altani Dataq'kahkol twitches at the mention of the elezen.
Markus Aerilius: "Even though hes a drug hound I am confident he will stand and fight for us. As for punishment I am thinking of many many things to put him in his place. Should the staff return he will be dealt with. And if they dont he will be tossed out by his bootstraps. Im over dealing with him."
Kowa Brimaine rests a quelling hand on Altani's arm. "Thank you, Markus. You remain The Spire in these difficult times."
Waku Motohama: Yes. It's much appreciated. You're owed some cake with your coffee tomorrow, I think.
Altani Dataq'kahkol takes a breath and gives a small smile to Kowa before returning her attention to Markus.
Markus Aerilius: "Now you all get some rest. Thats an order. We need you alert and focused tomorrow."
Markus Aerilius laughs at waku.
Kowa Brimaine: "That we will. Thank you for checking on us."
Markus Aerilius: "Its my pleasure I wish to ensure you all we will get through this as we have before."|
Waku Motohama grins. "Of course. And if anyone else starts getting concerned or anxious, please, sent them my way. I'll delegate some tasks to them."
Markus Aerilius: "Noted."
Markus Aerilius turns to leave. "thank you all."
Markus Aerilius: ((Goes back to spying))
Waku Motohama drains the rest of her tea - not that there was much left. "If there's no other business - and no one else needs anything - I'll be off as well."
Waku Motohama: ...Unless you had other questions for me?
Kowa Brimaine: "You've told us much. I don't wish to press you further."
Kowa Brimaine: "Thank you, Miss Motohama. Get some rest, will you?"
Waku Motohama nods. "I'll do so. Thank you for the tea, Miss Kowa, along with your hospitality."
Altani Dataq'kahkol grunts and gives a small wave to Waku.
Waku Motohama stands, then glances at Altani.
Waku Motohama: ...And Altani, I meant what I said. I'm definitely on your side.
Waku Motohama: ...You're also, ah... more than enough, you know? Ahem...
Altani Dataq'kahkol flicks her tail and nods, but says nothing.
Waku Motohama scratches her cheek, then bows. "Well, goodnight, you two."
Kowa Brimaine curtseys in turn. "Sleep well."