A Handful of Dust Session 104

[21:07.13] <DM> Alright.
[21:07.16] <DM> So we begin.
[21:08.13] <DM> You thump, suddenly, teleported by Carcephon back to your chambers in the Palace of Flowing Water.
[21:08.24] * You are now known as Ayla
[21:08.26] <Ayla> "Is this real?"
[21:08.40] <Ayla> "Although I guess...is anything...?"
[21:08.46] <Ayla> "heh."
[21:08.47] <+Mel> "Yep."
[21:09.00] <Ayla> "Prove it, golden globes."
[21:09.06] * Mel snorts.
[21:09.25] * Repriever scrounges at their leftovers table.
[21:09.37] <+Akvan> "Anyway... um."
[21:09.38] <+Mel> "I'll advise you to take my word on it."
[21:09.44] * Akvan slumps down on the floor against a wall
[21:09.47] <Ayla> "You guys look like you just swallowed a mouthful of basilisk piss."
[21:09.49] <+Mel> "And Preev will advise you to trust no one."
[21:10.03] <+Repriever> "My favorite."
[21:10.24] <+Mel> "Yeah, Akvan opened a hole to the plane of fire and released the angel that Carcy had brought over to her side."
[21:10.31] <Ayla> "Oh, yeah."
[21:10.33] <Ayla> "I saw that."
[21:10.36] * Repriever teases as he picks at leftover tuna, such an amazing treat.
[21:10.39] * Ayla snickers.
[21:10.40] <+Mel> "I figured you might've."
[21:11.07] <+Mel> "So we had a nice little walk, burned some effigies, danced, drank each other's thoughts, you know, the usual."
[21:11.07] <Ayla> "Hey, anything I can do to stub my splintery toe in her eye."
[21:11.17] * Ayla inhales.
[21:11.19] <Ayla> "Yooooo."
[21:11.24] <+Mel> "Will you be at the meeting tomorrow morning?"
[21:11.24] * Shala bites the bottom of her lip in worry
[21:11.30] <Ayla> "You got siphon?"
[21:11.45] <+Mel> "I left it there, Penny decided to keep it."
[21:11.47] * Penumbra wordlessly reveals a bottle from the folds of her cloak
[21:11.58] * Ayla also looks noticeably bigger, about the size of a potted plant.
[21:12.03] <Ayla> "Yaaaas girl."
[21:12.03] <+Mel> "I'm not blind, darlin'."
[21:12.09] * Mel winks at Penumbra.
[21:12.36] <Ayla> "Yeah, I'll go."
[21:12.39] <Ayla> "But you gotta carry me."
[21:12.42] * Mel joins Repriever in going through the leftoers.
[21:12.43] <+Repriever> "If my superiors weren't all dead, they'd never approve of that."
[21:12.48] <+Mel> "I think we can manage."
[21:13.01] <Ayla> "I'm your superior, and I approve."
[21:13.01] * Repriever means the siphon.
[21:13.25] <+Penumbra> "Never said." she walks up to Ayla and places the bottle and a cup.
[21:13.34] <+Penumbra> "Who are you siphoning with?"
[21:13.38] <Ayla> "Hmm."
[21:13.53] <Ayla> "If you put a little in my soil, then Tyao."
[21:14.04] <Ayla> "I gotta learn some stuff back from him."
[21:14.16] <+Shala> "I want nothing more to do with this!"
[21:14.28] * Shala declares to noone in particular
[21:14.38] <Ayla> "Woooah, who nibbled your nipple?"
[21:14.44] * Repriever glances her way in brief.
[21:14.44] <+Shala> "So I willl...return...to my chambers..."
[21:14.45] <+Penumbra>  "A bit of a longer term plan then. Maybe we should hold onto it for you."
[21:14.55] * Shala trails off
[21:15.03] <Ayla> "No no, I can totally commune with him through this plant."
[21:15.14] <+Repriever> "We're not used to sharing our deepest thoughts without warning."
[21:15.19] <+Mel> "Shala is dealing with some right rough memories right now."
[21:15.23] * Mel says to Ayla, leaning in.
[21:15.32] <Ayla> "Yeeaaaaah."
[21:15.38] <Ayla> "Well Shala, before you go."
[21:15.46] <Ayla> "Best way to deal with pain is to forget it ever happened!"
[21:15.52] * Repriever snorts.
[21:15.55] <+Shala> "In my case, yes"
[21:16.00] * Ayla toasts with the siphon-cup.
[21:16.02] <+Shala> "That would be the preferable way"
[21:16.02] <+Penumbra> "Very well, when you're ready." Penny pours a libation into the cup and rec-orks the bottle.
[21:16.33] <Ayla> "After tomorrow, I'll be able to break free of this plant."
[21:17.02] <+Penumbra> "An imposing figure, I'm sure."
[21:17.16] * Ayla flexes.
[21:17.30] * Repriever smiles at their exchange.
[21:17.36] * Ayla changes topic to: A Handful of Dust Session 104: Sudden Thumps - ＋https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUOOJHTNang，
[21:17.50] <+Repriever> "Also, Carcephon's going to tear my heart out."
[21:17.54] <Ayla> The distant sounds of festival music have begun to trail off as the night deepens.
[21:18.05] <Ayla> "Coming here was totally not my idea."
[21:18.39] <Ayla> "But hey, I'm sure Carcy's got hidden charms."
[21:18.52] <Ayla> "She hasn't murdered you all. That's a plus."
[21:18.53] <+Repriever> "A few."
[21:19.13] <+Repriever> "Well, only Penumbra."
[21:19.39] * Ayla puffs out her cheeks.
[21:19.57] <Ayla> "I dunno what her plan is, guys."
[21:19.57] * Repriever leans casually on the buffet table.
[21:20.03] <+Mel> "But if trying to kill party members was a no-go, then we wouldn't still be traveling with Penny."
[21:20.09] <Ayla> "I'm sorry, she's just too strong of a seer."
[21:20.10] * Mel says, just a little bit drunk.
[21:20.30] <Ayla> "And I'm in her sanctum, right now, it's a miracle I'm not drooling sap out both ends."
[21:20.34] <+Repriever> "And here I thought my dancing solved all prior animosity, Mel."
[21:20.37] * Repriever says lightly.
[21:20.52] <Ayla> "But, well, Akvan is obviously her..."
[21:20.55] <+Mel> "No animosity there. We understand what happened."
[21:21.04] <Ayla> "Oracle."
[21:21.06] * Mel returns her attention to Ayla.
[21:21.12] * Repriever is of course joking.
[21:21.19] <Ayla> "So, that could be good or bad."
[21:21.21] <+Penumbra> "Carce killed the one who tried that." she replies lightly.
[21:21.26] <+Mel> "Carce wants power. As long as our goals get 'er power, she'll stick with us."
[21:21.40] <Ayla> "I mean, Akvan's important to her."
[21:21.47] <Ayla> "So as long as you keep him close, you're safe."
[21:21.48] <+Penumbra> [referring to "prior animosity"]
[21:21.56] <+Mel> [I got it]
[21:22.09] <+Akvan> "Is he?"
[21:22.18] <+Penumbra> "Are we?"
[21:22.24] <+Repriever> "No."
[21:22.29] <+Mel> "You are Akvan."
[21:22.30] <Ayla> "She loves you, Akvan."
[21:22.50] <+Repriever> "She loves him without understanding what he is to her, yet."
[21:22.52] <Ayla> "She may show it in a very strange, dragony, arguably super-evil way..."
[21:22.56] <+Repriever> "She thinks she knows, but she does not."
[21:22.58] <Ayla> "But it's definitely love."
[21:23.00] <+Akvan> "I mean... I don't really understand either."
[21:23.05] <Ayla> "Although it feels kinda...weirdly familial..."
[21:23.19] <+Penumbra> "From what we know, every decision has a price, most of which she is willing to pay."
[21:24.14] <+Repriever> "I meant what I told her."
[21:24.28] <+Repriever> "She just hasn't admitted it to herself."
[21:24.39] <Ayla> "So guys."
[21:24.45] <Ayla> "This is probably as good a time as any."
[21:24.53] <+Mel> "Mm?"
[21:25.00] <Ayla> "I wasn't just like...fapping the whole you guys were gone."
[21:25.10] <Ayla> "I was doing some serious divination."
[21:25.13] <Ayla> (whole time*)
[21:25.14] <+Mel> "Wouldn't have considered that until now."
[21:25.19] <+Mel> "Now I'm considering that."
[21:25.22] * Repriever had considered it.
[21:25.27] * Penumbra looked like she considered nodding to that
[21:25.28] * Ayla smirks.
[21:25.37] <Ayla> "And I have this prophecy."
[21:25.41] <Ayla> "That I remember and that is real."
[21:26.01] <+Repriever> "Aboleth in the cistern, Repriever?"
[21:26.09] * Repriever sips some wine.
[21:26.20] <Ayla> "Half the Essences, you know hold, and a Fourth is said to come."
[21:26.28] <Ayla> (now*)
[21:27.06] <Ayla> "But by the time you've claimed the Fifth, the heaven's truce is done."
[21:27.41] <Ayla> "You get all that?"
[21:27.47] * Repriever remains silent, wondering what the two much smarter women have to say about this.
[21:27.51] * Mel nods.
[21:28.02] * Penumbra whispers to Repriever
[21:28.17] <+Penumbra> [actually, I'll ask DM first]
[21:28.19] <+Mel> "Given what's unfolding in the heavens, I'm surprised we could still call it a truce."
[21:28.23] <Ayla> "So I guess that means that sky people are gonna come kick you asses."
[21:28.28] <Ayla> your*
[21:28.41] * Repriever awaits the whispers of Penumbra.
[21:28.43] <Ayla> "Kasatha...I 'member them."
[21:28.53] <+Akvan> "Yeah?"
[21:29.03] <+Mel> "Kharvalath is not fighting merely because of Sael's Curse, and the Kasatha are coming as fast as they can- they're as truced with us as a cavalry brigade is while they charge."
[21:29.27] <Ayla> "Yeahhhh."
[21:29.30] <+Mel> "Kallos is watching us and might not be ready to take sides, but he doesn't seem bound by anything."
[21:29.47] <+Mel> "Are we talking Heptastrion?"
[21:30.14] * Repriever coolly observes.
[21:30.16] <Ayla> "I asked myself that same question after I started writing poetic bullshit."
[21:30.24] <Ayla> "It's kasatha."
[21:30.32] <+Akvan> "Wait, that's a hobby? not just an elf thing?"
[21:30.44] <Ayla> "If you guys go down to the Sealed Cities, you're gonna be there a while."
[21:30.53] <Ayla> "By the time you come back, kasatha are gonna be here."
[21:31.13] <+Repriever> "Poetry strengthens the mind," he says, almost absently.
[21:31.25] <Ayla> "Also, your time in the Sealed Cities is...well, to call it hilariously destructive in over ninety percent of my visions would be an understatement."
[21:31.52] <Ayla> "But I just see the aftermath."
[21:31.53] <+Repriever> [dm answer penny]
[21:31.57] <Ayla> "Broken ground."
[21:32.09] <+Mel> "And we'll need Kallos' support in this."
[21:32.26] <+Mel> "If he stays neutral, we're fighting from a much weaker position."
[21:32.57] <Ayla> "Not to mention, he's pretty cute."
[21:33.08] <Ayla> "Better than Repriever, for sure."
[21:33.26] * Repriever makes a face.
[21:33.29] * Ayla grins at him.
[21:33.32] * Mel rolls her eyes.
[21:34.09] * Repriever doesn't dispute that Kallos is pretty cute.
[21:34.20] <+Repriever> "What's Calcis saying about all this?"
[21:34.26] <+Repriever> "Or have you not recalled her?"
[21:34.38] <+Mel> "She's doing her own thing, I could call her in."
[21:34.50] <+Mel> "Well, Ayla could, as she's got the Essence right now."
[21:34.50] * Ayla taps the Air in her forehead.
[21:34.55] <Ayla> "Uhhhh."
[21:34.59] <Ayla> "Hnnnnn."
[21:35.16] <Ayla> "Dang Calcis, you got thick."
[21:35.20] <Ayla> "With souls."
[21:35.25] <Ayla> "She's saying mean stuff now."
[21:35.36] <Ayla> "What was I asking?"
[21:35.46] <+Repriever> "Tell her I asked her opinion on this."
[21:35.54] <Ayla> "On what, Kallos?"
[21:36.01] <Ayla> "Yeah, she agrees he's cuter."
[21:36.02] * Repriever nods.
[21:36.09] <Ayla> "But it's close, she says."
[21:36.13] <Ayla> "Obviously I disagree."
[21:36.14] * Repriever gulps some wine.
[21:36.14] <+Penumbra> "Really."
[21:36.19] <+Shala> [lol]
[21:36.27] <Ayla> "I think she might be messing with you, man."
[21:36.37] <Ayla> "I would never do something like that."
[21:36.40] <+Repriever> "We'll talk about that later."
[21:36.57] * Repriever doesn't seem miffed in the least, but jovial.
[21:37.16] <Ayla> "She thinks it's gonna be tough to bring him around."
[21:37.18] * Repriever knows he's a homewrecker.
[21:37.31] <Ayla> "Kallos is the only guy she knows who's more stubborn than Repriever or Aridai, she says."
[21:37.40] <Ayla> "And he's obviously got a capital P Plan."
[21:38.00] <+Repriever> "A plan he cannot carry through with."
[21:38.16] <+Repriever> "He's taking souls of his own."
[21:38.34] <+Repriever> "I don't know how, but he is."
[21:38.37] <Ayla> "What is with you humans and trying to snack on souls."
[21:38.59] <Ayla> "Weirdos."
[21:39.06] <Ayla> "Elves just ask souls politely when they want something done."
[21:39.26] <Ayla> "Usually little ones."
[21:39.32] * Repriever eyes Mel inquisitively.
[21:39.34] * Ayla whispers
[21:39.34] <+Mel> "Something about having a finite-sized soul I'd reckon."
[21:39.39] <Ayla> "Cause they're not very smart."
[21:39.42] <+Repriever> "And Lethe? What's her opinion?"
[21:39.50] * Ayla looks around, to make sure she hasn't offended any smol souls.
[21:39.50] * Mel meets Repriever's glance.
[21:40.43] * Mel ponders for a moment.
[21:41.09] <+Mel> "Lethe thinks we're gunna need all we can get to beat the Apastron at his apogee of strength."
[21:41.29] <+Mel> "Hope to liberate Aridai might come from Kallos."
[21:41.35] <+Repriever> "Time is short."
[21:41.37] <+Mel> "Myself speaking, I think we have to try."
[21:42.02] <+Repriever> "We need Flame."
[21:42.17] <+Mel> "That's the fourth we're getting soon."
[21:42.40] <+Repriever> "Astara doesn't believe there's any hope for Kallos to come around."
[21:42.44] <+Mel> We move against Kharvalath soon, and then forth into the sealed cities.
[21:42.54] <Ayla> "Cool, so all the goddesses said I'm right."
[21:42.58] <Ayla> "Go Ayla."
[21:43.08] <+Mel> "If there is a figment of hope, then we grab that and pull it until it is the only possibility."
[21:43.30] <+Mel> "I swears, if there's a chance, we fuckin' take it."
[21:43.39] * Repriever nods.
[21:43.56] <Ayla> "You could kill him and then brainwash him in earth heaven."
[21:44.06] <Ayla> "We've obviously seen that's an effective technique."
[21:44.06] * Repriever hisses at the thought.
[21:44.16] <Ayla> "Yeah, duh I'm kidding."
[21:44.20] <Ayla> "We're not bad people."
[21:44.22] <+Mel> "That's rendered tricky because of a certain devil we bargained with to get Shala back."
[21:44.27] <Ayla> "Well, I'm not."
[21:44.40] <Ayla> "A certain what the fuck now?"
[21:44.48] <+Mel> "We're disentangling Aridai and the Apastron so that he gets the Apastron, and Aridai can return to his goddess."
[21:44.51] * Repriever rakes his hair and sighs.
[21:44.59] * Ayla looks at her pot.
[21:45.09] <Ayla> "Planty, I swear, we leave them alone for one season..."
[21:45.16] <+Mel> "Yeah, look at us, striking deals with devils and dragons."
[21:45.24] <+Repriever> "A certain someone pushed her children too far and got our mancer killed, and the devil's bargain got her back."
[21:45.32] <Ayla> "Dragons belong in the ground."
[21:45.40] <Ayla> ">_>"
[21:45.51] <+Mel> "They're here now, we deal with 'em as they are."
[21:45.59] * Ayla sighs.
[21:46.01] <+Repriever> "Once, I would've agreed."
[21:46.02] <+Mel> "As fun as it'd be to go back to a world of humans where I run the only city there is."
[21:46.13] <Ayla> "Alright."
[21:46.13] * Mel puts on a lighthearted smirk.
[21:46.15] <Ayla> "Well..."
[21:46.19] <Ayla> "I'm gonna trance for a bit."
[21:46.28] <Ayla> "With my buddy and this Siphon."
[21:46.32] <+Mel> "Rest and grow well, we'll carry you around in the morning."
[21:46.35] <Ayla> "You dudes should probably get to sleep."
[21:46.39] <Ayla> "Thanks Melly."
[21:46.41] <+Mel> "Don't delve into unchartable dire mysteries."
[21:47.06] <Ayla> "I'm as dire as they come."
[21:47.45] * You are now known as DM
[21:47.52] <DM> Alright noble Six, please describe any remaining activities you would like to carry out before sleep.
[21:48.09] * Mel will follow Repriever to his room for some words.
[21:48.21] <DM> Akvan?
[21:48.25] * Repriever gathers a bottle of wine.
[21:49.16] <DM> Penumbra?
[21:49.19] <DM> Shala?
[21:49.24] * Akvan joins repreiver for wine
[21:49.48] * Shala is trying to occupy her mind away from infectious thoughts, skimming the small library Carcephon has brought into her room
[21:50.01] * Mel shares some wine with Akvan and Repriever.
[21:50.04] * Shala will likely not sleep
[21:50.12] <DM> You learn ONE 4th level spell of your choice, Shala!
[21:50.33] * Repriever eyes Akvan, but indulges his company.
[21:50.40] * Akvan drinks
[21:50.41] <+Akvan> alot
[21:51.19] <+Mel> "Don't have too much tonight, or you'll be strung out like a gutted fish when you speak tomorrow."
[21:51.21] <+Repriever> "You can drink til you're sick. I'll deal with it in the morning for you."
[21:51.30] * Repriever says at the same time as Mel.
[21:51.30] <+Penumbra> after the group starts to disperse but before Ayla starts trancing Penny would like to ask if she may ask a few questions about the Kasatha, the war and the devils
[21:51.34] * Mel looks at Repriever with their conflicting advice and laughs.
[21:52.03] * You are now known as Ayla
[21:52.07] <Ayla> "Lotta q's."
[21:52.14] * Shala 's fears sharpen into a new offensive spell, Black Tentacles
[21:52.14] <Ayla> "But I might have some a's."
[21:52.25] * Penumbra nods appreciatively
[21:52.36] <Ayla> "You got a nasty curse there, sister."
[21:53.01] <+Penumbra> "I've heard that the Kasatha invaded the heavens and the hells. How did that play out?
[21:53.02] <+Penumbra> "
[21:53.08] <+Penumbra> [she talking to me?]
[21:53.13] * Ayla changes topic to: A Handful of Dust Session 104: Sudden Thumps - ＋https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaxQyJGIX5A，
[21:53.20] <Ayla> [yes]
[21:53.21] <Ayla> "Oh."
[21:53.28] <Ayla> "That's old stuff."
[21:53.41] * Ayla looks to Repriever's room.
[21:53.52] <Ayla> "Legends and tales, you know. It happened before I was born."
[21:54.02] * Repriever is in there with Akvan and Mel, watching Akvan drown himself in wine.
[21:54.08] <Ayla> "But the elves remember."
[21:54.11] <+Penumbra> "I want to learn a bit more context before suggesting..."
[21:54.30] <Ayla> "The universe...is shaped like a hexagon."
[21:54.42] * Penumbra knees in a sitting pose and listens
[21:54.45] <Ayla> "It's embedded in the face of the all-being, the thing that humans call time."
[21:55.00] <Ayla> "Astralness is outside of time, the way we think it."
[21:55.04] <Ayla> "You've plane shifted, right?"
[21:55.12] * Penumbra tries to recall
[21:55.16] <Ayla> "Things that should take forever, like converting those angels -"
[21:55.20] * Ayla snaps her woody fingers.
[21:55.23] <Ayla> "Like that."
[21:55.25] * Penumbra nods
[21:55.29] <Ayla> "Or things that should take no time at all take lifetimes."
[21:55.39] <Ayla> "It's because the planes are outside the universe, you know?"
[21:55.57] <Ayla> "That's why, when mortal souls die..."
[21:56.02] <Ayla> "Things change for them."
[21:56.09] <Ayla> "Anyways..."
[21:56.15] * Penumbra is wondering about how planes interact with the material universe in that cosmology, but does not interrupt
[21:56.24] <Ayla> "The kasatha came from outside time."
[21:56.36] <Ayla> "In many ways, they saw the creation of the universe as heresy."
[21:56.49] <Ayla> "Heaven was pure, perfect, orderly creation."
[21:56.59] <Ayla> "Before the universe was made, there was only perfection."
[21:57.10] <Ayla> "But then it was made, and the divines were set to rule over mortal dominion."
[21:57.14] <Ayla> "But that made hell."
[21:57.19] <Ayla> "Cause the universe..."
[21:57.43] <Ayla> "It brought what we think of as evil in the world, and god wanted a punishment."
[21:57.58] <Ayla> "Or, well, no, it's more like there had to be one."
[21:58.05] <Ayla> "It's not really punishment, it's more like..."
[21:58.14] <Ayla> "Sorry, language doesn't do it right."
[21:58.19] <Ayla> "But anyways, the kasatha didn't like hell."
[21:58.25] <Ayla> "They didn't like the universe, either."
[21:58.34] <Ayla> "So they tried to take over everything."
[21:58.41] <Ayla> "It didn't work."
[21:58.49] <Ayla> "But I guess they're still trying."
[21:59.01] <Ayla> "That's most of what I know."
[21:59.25] <+Penumbra> "What was hell's defense from conquest?"
[21:59.33] <Ayla> "Uhhh."
[21:59.37] <Ayla> "Well, it's really big."
[21:59.46] <Ayla> "Mostly just a manpower thing, tbh."
[22:00.09] <Ayla> "I'm pretty sure the kasatha had control over most of it at some point."
[22:00.16] <+Penumbra> "The Kasatha conquered most of the heavens, but were unable to overcome hell." -muses
[22:00.27] <Ayla> "Well, no, they conquered most of heaven, and hell."
[22:00.37] <+Penumbra> "Ah."
[22:00.40] <Ayla> "They were in the course of conquering the material universe too."
[22:00.47] <Ayla> "That's what brought them here."
[22:01.02] <Ayla> "Once they had united each of the sacred worlds, they were gonna try a ritual of their own."
[22:01.16] <Ayla> "Probably their attempt to fix creation."
[22:02.08] <Ayla> "We were more, back then."
[22:02.13] <Ayla> "And the divines were with us."
[22:02.40] * Ayla sighs.
[22:02.44] <Ayla> "That was so long ago..."
[22:03.14] <Ayla> "I dunno how Chiro does it."
[22:03.36] * Ayla takes a swig of Siphon.
[22:03.39] * Penumbra nods
[22:03.40] <Ayla> "So what else."
[22:04.39] <+Penumbra> "How does the balance or deal between heaven and hell, or the leaders of heaven and hell work?" - Penny looks like she tried a bit to figure out how to word it, and decided to throw the draft out when asked
[22:04.54] * Ayla grins.
[22:04.57] <Ayla> "There is no deal."
[22:05.03] <Ayla> "It's war, man."
[22:05.07] * Penumbra blinks
[22:05.23] <+Penumbra> [I guess it makes internal sense, but the implications of the deal with the devils made it feel different]
[22:05.29] <Ayla> "The demons are fucking demons."
[22:06.04] <Ayla> "The thing is, they can't really interact with one another directly."
[22:06.22] <Ayla> "Heaven is a divine order, hell is an ungodly mess."
[22:06.29] <Ayla> "They both interface through this place."
[22:06.41] <Ayla> "So when the kasatha first invaded hell, they had to make gateways through the material plane first."
[22:06.56] <Ayla> "Just doing that was enough to make them fall from grace."
[22:07.01] <Ayla> "Tainted by what they opposed."
[22:07.08] <Ayla> "I'm sure they know they'll die too, if they ever succeed."
[22:07.14] <Ayla> "Well, maybe."
[22:07.20] <Ayla> "Maybe they have a plan."
[22:08.08] <Ayla> "So hell wants to drag the physical universe down the tubes to get at heaven and ruin that too, you see."
[22:08.15] <Ayla> "Equally so, the kasatha want to do the opposite."
[22:08.44] <Ayla> "I mean, this battle has played out over fuckin'...eons, Penny."
[22:08.49] <Ayla> "It's so slow to mortal eyes."
[22:08.51] * Penumbra nods, things making sense
[22:09.07] <Ayla> "Like, all of us will probably die long before it's ever resolved."
[22:09.35] <+Penumbra> "However it goes, that would likely be true."
[22:09.48] <+Penumbra> "Well, last question I suppose - were the Kasatha always "The Kasatha", or do you know of any factions or organizations among them?"
[22:09.57] <Ayla> "Mmm."
[22:10.03] <Ayla> "That I don't know."
[22:10.08] <Ayla> "But you know, Lend might."
[22:10.19] <Ayla> "He's reeeeally old."
[22:10.26] <Ayla> "I'll tell you one other thing."
[22:10.35] * Penumbra sits up slightly
[22:10.41] <Ayla> "You know how these magicians bind demons?"
[22:11.04] <Ayla> "All their schools' knowledge comes from Bel in the beginning. And Bel learned from the kasatha."
[22:11.07] <Ayla> "So, you know..."
[22:11.17] <Ayla> "You can expect him to have the strength of all three cosmic modes."
[22:11.31] <Ayla> "Angels, demons, and mortal forces."
[22:11.48] <+Penumbra> "Do the Kasatha bind Angels and Demons as well?"
[22:12.09] <Ayla> "They did, once."
[22:12.15] <Ayla> "But Bel hurt them."
[22:12.19] <Ayla> "Took away a lot of their power."
[22:12.30] <Ayla> "That's why we helped him."
[22:12.40] <+Shala> [mother in law here, doing minimum good son in law conversation real quick]
[22:13.07] * Penumbra nods, brow furrowing slightly in throught of implications of all this
[22:13.20] * Ayla takes a long sigh and another pour of Siphon into her pot.
[22:13.26] <Ayla> "Alright, Tyao's freaking out a little, so..."
[22:13.31] <Ayla> "I'm gonna go calm him down."
[22:13.32] <+Penumbra> "Thank you Ayla." she starts getting up.
[22:13.46] <Ayla> "Take care, ballpoint penny."
[22:13.48] * Ayla slumps over.
[22:14.11] * Penumbra smiles at the strange mannerisms of Ayla and heads to her room
[22:14.29] * Repriever has watched Akvan consume more than his fair share of wine.
[22:14.59] <+Mel> "As much as Preev can take that shit outta ya, you've probably had enough Aggy."
[22:15.37] <+Repriever> "Wanna talk about it?"
[22:15.50] * Akvan might be asleep
[22:15.52] * Repriever sits against one of his walls, as his room lacks furniture.
[22:15.58] * Akvan might not
[22:16.03] <+Akvan> or somewhere in between
[22:16.05] * Mel checks on Akvan.
[22:16.41] <Ayla> Akvan looks deeply unhappy.
[22:16.43] * You are now known as DM
[22:17.06] <+Mel> "Talk, or sleep?"
[22:17.12] * Akvan slurs
[22:17.14] <+Repriever> "Alright, kid."
[22:17.19] <+Akvan> "Talk"
[22:17.25] <+Akvan> "maybe"
[22:17.44] <+Shala> [back]
[22:18.28] <+Repriever> "So you found out more about our lovely Blue."
[22:19.13] * DM changes topic to: A Handful of Dust Session 104: Sudden Thumps - ＋https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Elj9ijUBiV8，
[22:19.18] <+Mel> "We've told her she has to be honest with you. For your sake. For hers, for all of ours."
[22:19.26] <+Akvan> "wh.... why is she... like that."
[22:19.35] <+Akvan> "is she evil...?"
[22:19.41] <+Akvan> "what's evil?"
[22:19.44] * Repriever barks a laugh, loudly.
[22:20.00] <+Mel> "She's self-interested."
[22:20.06] <+Mel> "That's her nature."
[22:20.12] <DM> Is a fire evil?
[22:20.15] <DM> It warms, and consumes.
[22:20.18] <+Mel> "What can be changed, nudged, pushed, is the methods she uses."
[22:20.21] <DM> Nourishes, and kills.
[22:20.26] <+Mel> "She cares about you, and about what you think."
[22:20.31] <+Mel> "She is flame, but she isn't mindless."
[22:20.51] <+Akvan> "She doesn't really care."
[22:20.55] <+Repriever> "A dragon's claws do not release."
[22:20.57] <+Akvan> "She just uses"
[22:21.09] <+Repriever> "She's struggling to come to grips with her new place, her new self."
[22:22.21] <+Akvan> "He... she.... ummmm"
[22:22.24] <+Akvan> "How do you do it?"
[22:22.28] * Akvan asks repreiver
[22:22.56] * Mel looks to Repriever as well.
[22:23.05] * Repriever smiles.
[22:23.15] <+Repriever> "I'm not telling him that," he says to Astara.
[22:23.41] <+Repriever> "But what I will say that you will never have the time I have had to adjust to this life."
[22:24.06] <+Repriever> "A divine is complicated and you won't always understand their reasoning or the shit they say."
[22:24.47] <+Akvan> "But they do?"
[22:24.56] <+Repriever> "Yes."
[22:25.10] <+Repriever> "But Carcephon is not fully divine. Not yet."
[22:25.30] <+Mel> "She doesn't want to give up what being material and bound to the world entails."
[22:25.39] <+Repriever> "She cannot. Not easily."
[22:25.57] <+Repriever> "A dragon's greed is their nature. Her father made her that way."
[22:25.58] <+Akvan> "would... Ilia?"
[22:26.02] <+Akvan> "Would she have?"
[22:26.08] <+Akvan> "if she wasn't broken?"
[22:26.21] * Repriever speaks softly, "I don't know."
[22:26.30] <+Akvan> "Does... she?'
[22:26.31] * DM changes topic to: A Handful of Dust Session 104: Sudden Thumps - ＋https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K637tgzECOM，
[22:26.36] * Akvan points in repreiver's general direction
[22:27.00] * Repriever chews on that.
[22:27.46] <+Repriever> "She will do what she does."
[22:28.49] <+Akvan> "Do you like her?"
[22:28.55] <+Repriever> "Astara?"
[22:29.07] * Akvan nods
[22:29.21] <+Repriever> "Oh, yes. Very much so."
[22:29.32] <+Akvan> "I like carcephon too."
[22:29.35] * Akvan whispers
[22:29.50] <+Akvan> "She... I don't know."
[22:29.53] * Akvan closes his eyes
[22:29.57] * Repriever makes a face.
[22:30.10] <+Repriever> "Sometimes we fight."
[22:30.19] <+Repriever> "I don't always do what She wants."
[22:30.39] <+Akvan> "How does she... what do you do?
[22:30.39] <+Akvan> '
[22:30.42] <+Repriever> "She has screamed at me for longer than you have even known Carcephon's name."
[22:30.42] <+Akvan> "
[22:30.57] * Repriever is ashamed to admit this.
[22:31.35] <+Repriever> "But we are alike in so many ways."
[22:31.49] <+Repriever> "And She is my heart, my soul."
[22:32.11] <+Repriever> "Even in conflict, we have our reasons, and She would never take that away from me."
[22:32.23] <+Repriever> "Carcephon is not used to being told no."
[22:32.41] <+Akvan> "but i have to make her.... used"
[22:32.46] <+Akvan> "to... it"
[22:33.15] <+Repriever> "Yes."
[22:33.51] <+Repriever> "How can you blame her for not doing what she has never learned to do?"
[22:34.19] <+Repriever> "Scold her. Be angry. But you are her Keeper."
[22:34.40] <+Repriever> "She can change, even if she mocks the very idea."
[22:35.02] * Akvan nods
[22:35.44] <+Repriever> "But, eh, she's a bitch, too."
[22:35.55] <+Akvan> "Is yours?
[22:35.55] <+Akvan> '
[22:35.57] <+Akvan> "
[22:36.06] * Repriever grins.
[22:36.13] <+Repriever> "She can be."
[22:36.17] * Akvan nods
[22:36.19] <+Akvan> smiles
[22:36.32] <+Repriever> "I would not want to be Her enemy."
[22:37.16] <+Repriever> "It was Her decision to allow Carcephon's ascension, Akvan. She won't let anything happen to you."
[22:38.11] <+Repriever> "And what about Lethe? Have you forgotten all about her?"
[22:38.43] <+Akvan> "Lethe doesn't talk to me"
[22:39.00] <+Repriever> "I had to die before Astara spoke to me."
[22:39.04] <+Mel> "Lethe is water and the mind's a pool."
[22:39.07] <+Repriever> "But I still spoke to Her."
[22:39.31] <+Repriever> "Even if the conversation seems one sided, they listen."
[22:40.02] <+Repriever> "Don't be fooled because Carcephon can curl up in bed with you that she has some power Lethe does not."
[22:40.08] <DM> It is now getting very, very late.
[22:40.26] * Repriever sighs.
[22:40.48] <+Repriever> "Assert yourself a little more. You're allowed to challenge her."
[22:41.01] <+Repriever> "Just choose your battles wisely."
[22:41.20] <+Repriever> "You drank all of our wine."
[22:41.38] <+Mel> "We'll get more of that. And it's late b'y."
[22:42.04] <+Repriever> "Alright, c'mon."
[22:42.08] * Repriever scoops Akvan to his feet.
[22:42.10] * Mel helps Repriever to hoist Akvan.
[22:42.42] <DM> Together, you manage to get him into bed.
[22:43.08] * Mel brings along a cup of water for Akvan.
[22:43.30] <+Repriever> "I'll be round in the morning."
[22:43.40] * Repriever assures him of a healing hand to come.
[22:43.57] * Mel departs the room with Repriever.
[22:44.22] <+Repriever> "It isn't an easy life."
[22:44.25] * Repriever says to Mel.
[22:44.31] <+Mel> "No. But it's a life."
[22:44.36] <+Mel> "I thought..."
[22:44.39] <+Akvan> "thanksss guys"
[22:44.45] <+Mel> "Good night Akvan."
[22:44.49] <+Akvan> "Night."
[22:45.07] * Mel 's heart pounds noticeably.
[22:45.14] <+Mel> "I thought you might enjoy some company tonight."
[22:45.22] <+Akvan> "thanks"
[22:45.28] <+Repriever> "The wine was for us."
[22:45.33] * Repriever says in answer.
[22:45.58] * Mel follows Repriever into his room.
[22:46.59] <+Mel> "Your thoughts on that offer?"
[22:47.08] * Mel smiles.
[22:47.24] <+Repriever> <<Yes.>>
[22:47.46] * Mel slowly disrobes out of her dress.
[22:48.03] <+Mel> "Might as well make some good of that drink, eh?"
[22:48.15] <+Repriever> "Some, or a lot?"
[22:48.25] <+Mel> "I'm game for a lot."
[22:48.34] <DM> Repriever can now fully appreciate the poetic subtlety of Ayla's 'golden globes' remark.
[22:48.46] <DM> Elsewhere.
[22:48.56] <+Mel> [TASTEFUL FADE TO BLACK]
[22:49.08] <DM> Akvan wanders.
[22:49.21] <DM> Fire-drakes scream across a smoking sky.
[22:49.41] <DM> The jewel-flowers pulse with heat, while veins of blue fire snake through the red-crystal ground.
[22:49.53] <DM> Your skin smokes and steams, but you do not burn.
[22:50.13] * Akvan pisses in a buch
[22:50.19] <+Akvan> bush*
[22:50.48] <DM> "Akvan," says Carcephon's voice from behind you, softly.
[22:50.54] * Akvan spins
[22:50.57] <+Akvan> "Hi"
[22:50.57] * Akvan smiles
[22:51.04] <+Akvan> "I'm sorry"
[22:51.15] <DM> One can imagine the elegant spray this results on the ground as you whirl a 180.
[22:51.26] <+Akvan> [it steams a bit]
[22:51.29] <DM> Carcephon, to her credit, does not remark on your smaller snake.
[22:51.45] <DM> Kneeling next to her is Vashiel.
[22:51.59] <DM> Her eyes are closed.
[22:52.15] <DM> Behind her, a thousand lines stream up into the sky like wings.
[22:52.27] * You are now known as Carcephon
[22:52.38] <Carcephon> "Actions speak louder than words."
[22:52.47] <Carcephon> "You saw me as taking away her freedom."
[22:52.58] <Carcephon> "And you wanted her to have the freedom to choose herself."
[22:53.04] * Akvan nods
[22:53.04] <Carcephon> "Am I wrong?"
[22:53.23] * Akvan sighs
[22:53.28] <Carcephon> Vashiel's eyes are closed, as if she is unconscious, the eye on her forehead pulsing bright blue.
[22:53.34] <+Akvan> "Well, I hoped to go on that journey with her."
[22:53.42] <+Akvan> "not just let her loose."
[22:53.57] * Carcephon smiles.
[22:54.08] <Carcephon> "Just releasing her into this plane would have changed nothing."
[22:54.19] <Carcephon> "But I can do more."
[22:54.20] <+Akvan> "I just... you know... wanted to follow this with one of them."
[22:54.33] * Carcephon purses her lips.
[22:54.51] <+Akvan> "What do you mean?
[22:54.52] <+Akvan> '
[22:54.53] <+Akvan> "
[22:55.07] <Carcephon> "I can release my influence from her."
[22:55.11] <Carcephon> "Return her to the way she was."
[22:55.24] * Akvan kneels down and looks into her face
[22:55.31] <+Akvan> "You are good with words... and you are RIGHT."
[22:55.38] <+Akvan> "you don't NEED to force your will on her"
[22:55.42] <+Akvan> "you can convince her"
[22:55.57] * Carcephon smiles, sadly.
[22:56.06] <Carcephon> "Shall we try?"
[22:56.15] <+Akvan> "You can show her your future"
[22:56.21] <+Akvan> "Without magically changing her."
[22:56.54] * Akvan looks up at carcephon
[22:56.57] <+Akvan> "what do you mean?'
[22:57.10] <Carcephon> "Let's try to convince her of our future."
[22:57.13] <Carcephon> "Together."
[22:58.22] * Akvan scoffs
[22:58.25] <+Akvan> "I don't have the words you do"
[22:58.27] <+Akvan> "the knowledge"
[22:58.33] <Carcephon> "No."
[22:58.35] <+Akvan> "I'm being... inconsistent."
[22:58.39] <+Akvan> "Right?"
[22:58.42] <Carcephon> "But you have something I don't."
[22:58.44] <+Akvan> "I don't know."
[22:58.50] <+Akvan> "your way is maybe the right one."
[22:59.01] <Carcephon> "Maybe the right way for me."
[22:59.04] <+Akvan> "Can we... try?
[22:59.05] <+Akvan> '"
[22:59.09] <Carcephon> "But not for her."
[22:59.13] <Carcephon> "Yes."
[22:59.15] <+Akvan> "Thank you for trying, at least."
[22:59.18] * Akvan smiles at her
[22:59.23] <Carcephon> "Put your hand over mine."
[22:59.26] * Carcephon smiles back.
[22:59.30] * Akvan does
[22:59.48] <Carcephon> "Now pull in the threads of fate that lead her mind to different existentialities."
[22:59.53] <Carcephon> "Don't think about it, just do it."
[23:00.16] * Carcephon does something that looks like reeling in the thousand strings of blue light.
[23:00.32] <Carcephon> The strings all flow into her back.
[23:01.01] <Carcephon> Vashiel's mortal body explodes.
[23:01.19] * You are now known as Vashiel
[23:01.35] * Vashiel manifests as a vast, roaring pillar of crimson flame that consumes all.
[23:01.39] <+Akvan> "Hi"
[23:01.52] <Vashiel> "USURPER"
[23:02.06] <Vashiel> "DEICIDE"
[23:02.23] * You are now known as Carcephon
[23:02.26] <Carcephon> "Patience."
[23:02.28] * Carcephon whispers.
[23:02.36] * You are now known as Vashiel
[23:02.53] <Vashiel> "SPAWN OF KHARAIEL..."
[23:02.54] * Akvan whispers
[23:03.01] <+Akvan> "You didn't tell me what I have you don't"
[23:03.28] <Vashiel> Carcephon smiles, and twists her fingers with Akvan's.
[23:03.34] <Vashiel> "I...WHY HAVE YOU FREED ME..."
[23:03.49] <+Akvan> "Hello Vashiel."
[23:04.08] <Vashiel> "ILIA'S MORTAL BEARER."
[23:04.18] <Vashiel> "YOU HOLD THE FINAL SHARD."
[23:04.36] <Vashiel> "WHAT WAS OBSCURED IS NOW CLEAR."
[23:04.46] <+Akvan> "Come. Speak with us."
[23:04.58] <Vashiel> "I HAVE BEEN SULLIED BY MORTAL BEING."
[23:05.07] <Vashiel> "BUT NOW, I SEE."
[23:05.21] * You are now known as Carcephon
[23:05.23] <Carcephon> "Hmm."
[23:05.29] <+Akvan> "What do you see?"
[23:05.34] * You are now known as Vashiel
[23:05.39] <Vashiel> "IT WAS NOT A DEICIDE."
[23:05.46] <Vashiel> "ILIA LIVES."
[23:05.59] <+Akvan> "Some of her, does."
[23:05.59] * Akvan nods
[23:06.16] * Akvan casts ancestral gift
[23:06.42] <Vashiel> "AKVAN."
[23:06.51] <Vashiel> "I, TOO, HAVE SINNED."
[23:07.04] <Vashiel> "I HAVE LOST THE RIGHT TO SIT IN JUDGEMENT."
[23:07.19] <Vashiel> "ONLY YOU CAN RESTORE WHAT HAS BEEN LOST."
[23:07.28] <+Akvan> "To you?"
[23:07.30] <+Akvan> "To flame?"
[23:07.34] <+Akvan> "to myself?"
[23:07.37] <+Akvan> "To her?"
[23:07.37] <Vashiel> "YES."
[23:07.54] <Vashiel> "YOU ARE THE SPIRIT OF RECONCILIATION."
[23:08.30] <Vashiel> "WE ARE DIMINISHED, SINCE KHARAIEL'S BETRAYAL."
[23:08.41] <Vashiel> "BUT WE WILL BE RESTORED."
[23:08.47] <+Akvan> "But we are fixing that, are we not?"
[23:08.56] <+Akvan> "Me, you, Carcephon."
[23:08.58] <+Akvan> "The other angels"
[23:09.04] <+Akvan> "All of us, restoring what was lost"
[23:09.22] <+Akvan> "That was Ilia's desire. She gave herself up for that"
[23:09.24] <Vashiel> The great pillar of flame condenses, until it forms a geometric pattern, a diamond flickering with angles and lines.
[23:09.35] <+Akvan> "Or, at least, I think so."
[23:09.39] <Vashiel> "I would return," it says, softly.
[23:09.47] <+Akvan> "That's the only way I can understand what happened."
[23:09.47] <Vashiel> "To what you call the mountain."
[23:10.02] <Vashiel> "I must await her."
[23:10.15] <Vashiel> "I see, now..."
[23:10.32] <Vashiel> "I was so lost in pain..."
[23:10.52] * You are now known as Carcephon
[23:11.03] <Carcephon> "You may go wherever you must."
[23:11.18] * You are now known as Vashiel
[23:11.22] * Vashiel cycles through geometries.
[23:11.33] <Vashiel> "Do not think yourself forgiven, Carcephon."
[23:11.39] <Vashiel> "But I understand, now."
[23:11.59] * You are now known as Carcephon
[23:12.07] <+Akvan> "I hope to see you again, Vashiel"
[23:12.12] * Carcephon nods.
[23:12.25] * You are now known as Vashiel
[23:12.28] <Vashiel> "In some way, you will."
[23:12.32] * You are now known as Vashield
[23:12.38] * You are now known as Vashiel
[23:12.41] * Vashiel vanishes.
[23:12.46] * You are now known as Carcephon
[23:12.53] <Carcephon> "Well...that was something."
[23:13.00] <+Akvan> "did that go how you planned it?"
[23:13.10] <+Akvan> "Yes, I assume"
[23:13.16] * Carcephon chuckles, lightly.
[23:13.24] <Carcephon> "I plan for everything, Akvan."
[23:13.29] <Carcephon> "Sadly, I get very little sleep."
[23:14.19] <Carcephon> "I have to tell you a secret."
[23:14.47] * Carcephon changes topic to: A Handful of Dust Session 104: Sudden Thumps - ＋https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW9FDByKsC4，
[23:14.55] <Carcephon> "I can only tell you here."
[23:15.09] <Carcephon> "And you must, you must, keep it secret until the day it is necessary."
[23:15.22] * Akvan nods
[23:15.46] <Carcephon> "Very soon, we will reach the chamber where my
[23:15.52] <Carcephon> Father slumbers."
[23:16.07] <Carcephon> "His mind is strong."
[23:16.21] <Carcephon> "His will is unquenchable, but by one thing."
[23:16.33] <Carcephon> "So this memory must exist outside of time, or he will rip it from us."
[23:16.42] <+Akvan> "How do I put it out of time?"
[23:16.49] <+Akvan> "Teach me."
[23:16.57] <Carcephon> "It is safe, here."
[23:17.03] <Carcephon> "You will only remember it when you sleep."
[23:17.05] <+Akvan> "So as to not betray you.
[23:17.05] <+Akvan> "
[23:17.11] <Carcephon> "Until the appointed time."
[23:17.28] <Carcephon> "When we reach the chamber..."
[23:18.00] <Carcephon> "You must, with my hand in yours, touch the Essence of Water to the Essence of Fire."
[23:18.10] <+Akvan> "What will that do?
[23:18.11] <+Akvan> "
[23:18.19] <Carcephon> "And this is the most critical."
[23:18.36] <Carcephon> "You must, with all your heart, and all your mind, and all your soul..."
[23:18.39] <Carcephon> "Trust me."
[23:18.46] <Carcephon> "If you do, when you do."
[23:18.56] <Carcephon> "Kharvalath will be released from existence."
[23:18.58] <+Akvan> "I do"
[23:19.17] <Carcephon> "I tested that trust."
[23:19.19] <Carcephon> "It was my fault."
[23:19.31] <Carcephon> "But if your faith wavers again, my Father will kill us all."
[23:19.57] <+Akvan> "I trust you."
[23:20.05] <+Akvan> "But I have to trust myself too."
[23:20.16] * Carcephon turns to face you, taking both your hands in hers.
[23:20.23] <Carcephon> "I know."
[23:20.29] <+Akvan> "I haven't thought of the steppes alot, recently, but.... what's true out there is true here too. A hunter that doesnt trust himself doesn't last.:
[23:20.30] <+Akvan> "
[23:21.13] <+Akvan> "But a hunter that doesn't trust his companions... they die"
[23:21.28] <Carcephon> "Good."
[23:21.41] <Carcephon> "Then let us finish this hunt, together."
[23:21.45] * Carcephon kisses Akvan.
[23:22.06] <+Akvan> "Let us"
[23:22.38] <Carcephon> The snake-mantises scream towards the violet sky, as Carcephon's astral citadel shines in the distance, over the forest of flames.
[23:22.51] * Akvan holds her hand
[23:22.55] * Akvan looks out over it all
[23:23.55] <Carcephon> It is beautiful.
[23:23.58] * You are now known as DM
[23:24.06] <DM> The next morning comes bright and swift.
[23:24.13] <DM> Too swift, for some.
[23:24.19] <DM> Those some are those who drank too much.
[23:25.08] * Lord_Iggy (IceChat78@d172-218-157-213.bchsia.telus.net) has joined channel #nesdnd
[23:25.12] * Lord_Iggy is now known as Melchior
[23:25.25] <Melchior> [pardon me crashed program for a moment]
[23:26.00] * Repriever is up early, or perhaps never slept, and does what he said, laying a hand on Akvan to remove the burden of his drinking from his body.
[23:26.00] * Boone (IceChat78@d172-218-157-213.bchsia.telus.net) has joined channel #nesdnd
[23:26.08] <+Repriever> [having trouble?]
[23:26.09] <Boone> [ o_o ]
[23:26.59] <+Akvan> [really cutting into the drama, here]
[23:27.02] <DM> [hastily scrambles for his Attack of the Alternate Mels cuecards]
[23:27.46] * DM sets mode +v Boone for #nesdnd
[23:27.49] * DM sets mode +v Melchior for #nesdnd
[23:27.57] <+Boone> [apologies, kick the other Mels and carry on]
[23:28.26] * Melchior was kicked by DM(Eighth@156.111.111.75)  - Reason (DM)
[23:28.32] * Mel was kicked by DM(Eighth@156.111.111.75)  - Reason (DM)
[23:28.55] * Mel (IceChat78@d172-218-157-213.bchsia.telus.net) has joined channel #nesdnd
[23:29.00] <+Repriever> [lol]
[23:29.07] * Penumbra emerges from her room, looking quiet and thoughtful, she looks to Ayla and Repriever
[23:29.37] * Repriever is in the common area, bathing in that pool thing.
[23:29.39] * You are now known as Ayla
[23:29.42] * Ayla groans.
[23:29.43] * Mel slips out to enjoy a morning bath before breakfast.
[23:29.56] <Ayla> "Pennny...why'd you give me all that Siphon..."
[23:30.01] <Ayla> "They said you were the responsible one..."
[23:30.08] * Boone (IceChat78@d172-218-157-213.bchsia.telus.net) has left #nesdnd ()
[23:30.21] * Ayla sets mode +v Mel for #nesdnd
[23:30.53] <Ayla> "Where's Repriever..."
[23:31.00] <Ayla> "ReprieeeeEEEEEEVER!"
[23:31.08] <+Repriever> "I'm right here."
[23:31.21] * Repriever is in the bath literally next to her.
[23:31.23] <+Mel> "Morning Ayla."
[23:31.24] <+Penumbra> "I gave you one cup, the rest was yours."
[23:31.25] * Mel smiles.
[23:31.26] * Ayla raises her head up.
[23:31.28] <Ayla> "Oh."
[23:31.34] <Ayla> "Well now that you're here."
[23:31.40] <Ayla> "Heal me please."
[23:31.49] <+Repriever> "Last time I did, you whined."
[23:32.00] <Ayla> "That was the old me."
[23:32.17] <Ayla> "Look at me, I'm literally new."
[23:32.23] * Repriever gestures for her to crawl to him so he doesn't have to get out of the water.
[23:32.24] <+Mel> "Won't be the first hangover you've Reprieved today."
[23:32.35] <Ayla> "Unh."
[23:32.46] * Ayla scooches pitifully towards the edge of the table.
[23:33.27] * Penumbra gives Ayla a helping hand
[23:33.37] * Repriever reaches out with his cosmic hand, churning in amber and earthen shades, to the botany abomination.
[23:33.41] <+Penumbra> [is there any siphon left? lol]
[23:33.52] <Ayla> [Maybe a bit.]
[23:34.07] * Repriever is careful to keep his hand away from the Air essence.
[23:34.09] * Ayla sighs in relief as she is purified.
[23:34.17] <Ayla> "Phewww＋www.，"
[23:34.21] * Ayla looks at Repriever.
[23:34.26] * Ayla looks at Mel.
[23:34.28] <Ayla> "Heh."
[23:34.35] <Ayla> "Earth element best element, am I right?"
[23:34.52] <+Mel> "Yeh b'y."
[23:34.56] * Mel drawls.
[23:35.15] <Ayla> "Suck it, you pompous fractal twat!"
[23:35.25] <+Repriever> "That's uncalled for."
[23:35.43] <+Repriever> "You heard Her, Ayla."
[23:35.47] * Ayla clears her throat.
[23:35.51] * Repriever makes a menacing flex of his fist.
[23:35.58] <Ayla> "Okay, okay."
[23:36.22] * Ayla is approximately the size of an infant now.
[23:36.26] <+Repriever> "You're reprieved."
[23:36.44] * Repriever laughs in relaxation.
[23:36.52] <Ayla> "Oh wait, I totally know healing magic."
[23:36.57] <Ayla> "I was just so hung over I forgot."
[23:37.00] <Ayla> "But thanks anyways."
[23:37.39] <+Repriever> "You're not a twat," he says to Astara.
[23:37.46] <Ayla> Luteia knocks and enters, bearing breakfast foods.
[23:37.49] * You are now known as DM
[23:38.09] <DM> Piles of fresh blackberries and pomegranate seeds, as well as pink melons, sliced to perfection.
[23:38.34] <+Penumbra> "Good morning, Luteia." says Penumbra. "How long until the meeting?"
[23:38.45] <DM> In addition, there is warm bread and spicy sausages, still sizzling in a little pan of their own.
[23:38.55] <+Mel> "'Tis early, not long from now."
[23:39.01] * You are now known as Luteia
[23:39.16] * Penumbra picks up a couple, and chooses a pomegranate
[23:39.21] <Luteia> "Indeed, many parties are teleporting in as we speak."
[23:39.31] * Repriever dunks under and scrubs his hair, then asks Penumbra for some melons.
[23:39.35] <Luteia> "I regret to encourage you to eat quickly, and then step onto this teleportation pad."
[23:39.41] * Luteia unrolls an arcane carpet on the floor.
[23:40.06] * Repriever glances about for Akvan.
[23:40.25] <Luteia> "The meeting is situated in the harbor district of Sapphis, in the Tower of Arcyix."
[23:40.32] <Luteia> Akvan is probably still out cold.
[23:40.47] * Shala breezes through and stuffs some of the quicker breakfast into her mouth
[23:40.47] * Mel eats a quick light breakfast, looking for any meats and biscuits to go with the fruits.
[23:41.00] <+Shala> "Oooh ooh! Too hot!"
[23:41.09] * Shala fans her mouth but refuses to spit any out
[23:41.31] * Mel wraps up in two towels and forages for food poolside.
[23:41.35] <Luteia> Luteia is able to conjure some soft biscuits to augment the offered breakfast.
[23:41.36] * Penumbra passes the tray to Preev
[23:42.03] <+Mel> "Thanks!"
[23:42.17] * Repriever eats in the bath quickly, then climbs out to pick at the other food while drying.
[23:42.25] <+Repriever> "Who is coming?"
[23:42.26] * Penumbra breaks the fruit in half before the announcement, and shrugs, peeling out a small handful to chew on
[23:42.49] * Mel stuffs in a few biscuits and then heads back to get changed into clothing for the meeting.
[23:43.34] <Luteia> "Delegations from the Calcissi, the Citadel, and all of the draconic tribes who have declared loyalty."
[23:43.52] <Luteia> "Several of your servants are also in the party."
[23:43.56] <+Repriever> "And the slaves we freed?"
[23:44.15] <+Repriever> "Have they chosen a representative?"
[23:44.42] <Luteia> "Not yet. Finding food and warm shelter for the vast mass of refugees has been a challenge."
[23:45.08] <Luteia> "However, the bulk of them have now been supplied."
[23:45.27] * Repriever nods and dresses.
[23:45.45] * Repriever goes to get Akvan up.
[23:45.51] <+Shala> "In a way, we're their representative"
[23:45.56] * Shala ponders
[23:47.17] <Luteia> "The Algyroi are in good health."
[23:47.33] <Luteia> "They look forward to again seeing you, who they describe as their angel."
[23:47.49] * Repriever considers this label.
[23:48.52] <+Repriever> "You must've made a good impression."
[23:49.07] <+Repriever> "Or a horrible one."
[23:49.14] <+Repriever> "You can't really say with angels."
[23:49.40] <Luteia> "I am sure that in whichever direction, Shala's impression was extremely strong."
[23:49.55] <Luteia> "Are the Six ready?"
[23:49.59] <+Repriever> "How thoughtfully indecisive."
[23:50.03] * You are now known as DM
[23:50.10] * Shala smiles, warmly, below her darkened eyes
[23:50.16] <DM> Kir rolls out of bed, hastily cramming berries in his mouth.
[23:50.21] <+Shala> "I am ready, if a bit tired"
[23:50.25] * Penumbra stands, nodding
[23:50.30] <+Repriever> "You're leading this one, Shala."
[23:50.39] * Shala nods expectantly
[23:50.46] <+Shala> "Of course"
[23:50.51] <+Shala> "Wait...what?"
[23:51.04] * Repriever gives her a little push toward the carpet.
[23:51.15] <DM> Shala vanishes.
[23:51.26] <DM> (into teleportation-land)
[23:51.31] * Repriever follows.
[23:52.11] * Mel returns from her room, dressed in more practical clothing than last night, and with much of her gear on her person.
[23:52.16] <+Mel> "All good to go."
[23:52.27] <DM> Repriever and Shala have already ported out.
[23:52.27] * Mel proceeds into the portal.
[23:52.28] * Penumbra is behind Repriever, giving a soft smile and wave to Mel as she leaves
[23:52.34] <DM> Kir goes just behind.
[23:52.39] * Repriever is probably fully armored.
[23:53.14] * You are now known as Ayla
[23:53.16] <Ayla> "Oh shit."
[23:53.17] * Repriever feels better than he has since Zarmahl.
[23:53.21] <Ayla> "I'm gonna get left behind!"
[23:53.25] <Ayla> "Akvan, pick me up!"
[23:53.42] * Akvan scoops her up
[23:53.45] <Ayla> "Pick up the pot."
[23:53.49] <Ayla> "there you go."
[23:53.50] <+Akvan> and places her on his back
[23:53.55] <Ayla> "Oooh, okay."
[23:53.55] <+Akvan> and also picks up the pot
[23:54.03] <Ayla> "This is definitely new."
[23:54.27] * Mel notices Akvan carrying Ayla with an 'oops' expression in her eyes.
[23:54.40] * Akvan has ayla on his shoulders
[23:54.50] <Ayla> You teleport onto an engraved teleportation circle, carved deep into expensive marble.
[23:55.15] <Ayla> The balcony overlooks a beautiful, shining blue bay as the sun rises.
[23:55.35] <Ayla> You are several miles to the west of the Palace of Flowing Water, as well as the main Palace of Sight.
[23:55.36] * Repriever inhales the sea.
[23:55.50] <Ayla> The Draconic Sea smokes with faint heat, deep below the surface.
[23:56.01] <Ayla> It is a hazy blue-green.
[23:56.17] <Ayla> Sapphis has no walls, the city simply fades out to watchtowers and farmlands.
[23:56.34] <Ayla> But a vast army is encamped to the north, smoke from cookfires rising.
[23:56.55] <Ayla> There are farmlands, but the vastness of the waste beyond looms.
[23:57.16] <Ayla> Surveying her kingdom, Carcephon turns from the balcony.
[23:57.21] * You are now known as Carcephon
[23:57.43] <Carcephon> She wears a deep blue robe, and wears a platinum tiara embedded with blue jewels, and is carrying a staff of authority.
[23:58.00] <Carcephon> "Greetings, Six."
[23:58.01] * Repriever notes that she's shed her sex appeal, so this must be a serious diplomatic effort.
[23:58.17] <+Mel> "Good mornin'!"
[23:58.22] <+Repriever> "Prince."
[23:58.25] <Carcephon> "And our little elven comrade."
[23:58.26] <+Mel> "All's well?"
[23:58.26] <+Akvan> "Morning"
[23:58.40] <Carcephon> "All is well."
[23:58.48] * Shala nods
[23:58.53] <Carcephon> "Will you accompany me to the council table?"
[23:59.03] * Carcephon glides across the marble to take Akvan's arm.
[23:59.12] <+Akvan> "Gladly"
[23:59.24] * Repriever gives concerned looks to Penumbra and Mel.
[23:59.29] <Carcephon> Two armored velcirath open the balcony doors.
[23:59.38] * Penumbra gives a serious and focused look back
[23:59.48] <Carcephon> Within, several figures clad in blue kneel as Carcephon enters.
[23:59.56] <Carcephon> "Please, rise."
[00:00.10] <Carcephon> They do, and you see the faces of Serdis, Cephaia, and Couplet.
[00:00.17] * Mel follows Penumbra and the others to the council table.
[00:00.40] * You are now known as Couplet
[00:00.43] * Repriever has made his mind up on Couplet long ago and now understands more of it.
[00:00.45] <Couplet> "H-hey...everyone."
[00:00.55] <+Repriever> "Couplet."
[00:00.57] <+Akvan> "Hi!"
[00:01.00] * Akvan runs over to hug her
[00:01.03] <Couplet> "Akvan! Captain!"
[00:01.05] <Couplet> "Ahahaha!"
[00:01.17] * Couplet swings around Akvan as she lifts up off her feet.
[00:01.26] <Couplet> "It's great to see you all!"
[00:01.50] <+Mel> "Morning Couplet, glad to see ya's well."
[00:01.56] * You are now known as Carcephon
[00:02.04] <Carcephon> "Shall we proceed?"
[00:02.10] * You are now known as Serdis
[00:02.12] <Serdis> "Gladly."
[00:02.17] <+Repriever> "One question, first."
[00:02.22] * You are now known as Cephaia
[00:02.34] * Cephaia 's large eyes focus on Repriever seriously.
[00:02.39] <+Repriever> "Neither one of you happens to be Lakhmul, right?"
[00:02.52] * Cephaia gives out a short laugh.
[00:02.57] * You are now known as Carcephon
[00:03.08] <Carcephon> "Sadly, I am Lakhmul."
[00:03.10] * Shala takes a sharp breath
[00:03.17] * Carcephon pokes her finger into Repriever's chest.
[00:03.19] <Carcephon> "Gotcha."
[00:03.22] * Carcephon winks.
[00:03.41] * Repriever sighs, but comedically.
[00:03.45] * Carcephon turns, and leads onwards,
[00:04.13] * Mel smirks and rolls her eyes.
[00:04.19] * Mel mouths 'trust no one' to Repriever.
[00:04.30] <Carcephon> As the door opens, you are greeted to a large party of Calcissi, clad in plate that looks like it has seen recent wear. Several hands are on swords.
[00:04.42] * Carcephon changes topic to: A Handful of Dust Session 104: Sudden Thumps - ＋https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=580LsVOrowc，
[00:04.59] * You are now known as Luteia
[00:05.14] * Luteia announces the arrivals in unison with her twin brother.
[00:05.29] <Luteia> "The Six, Carcephon the Blue, and Ayla the Elf."
[00:05.32] * Mel straightens her back in respectful attention.
[00:05.51] * Shala smoothes out wrinkles in her outfit
[00:06.10] <Luteia> "Lord Regent Delia Celtari, Father Kallias Martin, Acting Commander Swiftspear, and Lord Nyarche."
[00:06.15] * Penumbra bears the Spear of Calcis proudly
[00:06.24] * Repriever holds his helm underarm, scanning the crowd with his silver circlet catching the dawn.
[00:06.30] <Luteia> [Martin Kallias*]
[00:06.40] * You are now known as Kallias
[00:06.46] <Kallias> "Well here we are at last, Repriever."
[00:06.51] <Kallias> "In the dragon's den."
[00:06.57] * You are now known as Delia
[00:07.03] * Delia scans the room suspiciously, nodding at the Six.
[00:07.10] <+Repriever> "It's good to see you both made it out."
[00:07.30] * Mel is dressed in her white and gold skirt, with bronze chainmail and her brown and gold cloak, trimmed with the fur of some long-lost Kieli beast. Her black gauntlet is cool over her hand.
[00:07.38] * Penumbra makes eye contact with Delia and nods back, indicating measured trust in the situation
[00:07.40] * Akvan (177c2db4@ircip1.mibbit.com) Quit (Quit: ＋http://www.mibbit.com， ajax IRC Client)
[00:07.43] <+Repriever> "I killed the Black," he says to Kallias, seriously.
[00:07.48] <Delia> Delia wears black over her armor, in mourning.
[00:08.10] <Delia> "I hold you responsible for my sister's fate."
[00:08.18] <Delia> "But I am grateful that you finished Calcis work."
[00:08.38] <Delia> "Well met."
[00:08.42] * Repriever understands.
[00:08.58] <+Repriever> "I tried."
[00:08.58] * You are now known as Kallias
[00:09.06] <Kallias> "May I present to you Lord Swiftspear."
[00:09.11] * You are now known as Swiftspear
[00:09.34] * Swiftspear is an older lady, probably early 50's, with windswept, long sandy brown hair worn loose, and light armor, as well as several javelins strapped to her back.
[00:09.49] <Swiftspear> "Noble Six."
[00:09.59] <Swiftspear> "I held the north for Plainchant."
[00:10.06] * Mel bows before Swiftspear.
[00:10.14] <Swiftspear> "I was recalled, but not quickly enough."
[00:10.24] * Repriever offers a hand to shake, but does not bow.
[00:10.31] * Swiftspear takes it firmly.
[00:10.40] <Swiftspear> "I do not consider myself Count Palatine."
[00:10.52] <Swiftspear> "But I will steward the ruins of our order until such can be found."
[00:10.59] <+Penumbra> ?roll 1d20+10
[00:10.59] <%tBot> Penumbra: 21 ([11] +10)
[00:11.03] * Swiftspear nods, and steps aside.
[00:11.31] * Repriever seems to have words he wants to say to Delia but keeps them to himself for now.
[00:11.47] * You are now known as Kallias
[00:12.12] <Kallias> "There has been...nothing but suffering in Tetraea since you left for Ekrat."
[00:12.23] <Kallias> "Zathindra's forces ravaged the city."
[00:12.38] <+Repriever> "The Queen?"
[00:12.42] <Kallias> "The Queen, we saved."
[00:12.55] <Kallias> "Whitelay, and many others, gave their lives defending Marcelian Fort."
[00:13.07] * Repriever inhales deeply.
[00:13.31] <Kallias> "However, Hin was of great assistance."
[00:13.45] * Mel closes her eyes and thinks of the departed.
[00:14.06] <Kallias> "I present to you Nyarche, of late of the Evoker's Tower."
[00:14.21] * You are now known as Nyarche
[00:14.24] <Nyarche> "Hello."
[00:14.47] <+Repriever> "Evoker?"
[00:14.55] <Nyarche> "Indeed."
[00:15.04] <Nyarche> "Evocation is my school and Tower."
[00:15.09] <+Mel> "Pleased to make your acquaintance."
[00:15.14] <+Shala> "I apologize"
[00:15.22] <+Shala> "Sorry, old Conjurer habit"
[00:15.30] <Nyarche> "High Athtar."
[00:15.34] * Shala smirks and bows
[00:15.35] * Nyarche courtsies.
[00:15.39] <Nyarche> curtsies8
[00:15.41] <Nyarche> curtsies*
[00:15.47] <Nyarche> "Frankly, I'm not one for politics."
[00:15.50] <+Shala> [the ol curtsy 8]
[00:16.02] <+Shala> "Politics has a way of finding us though, doesnt it?"
[00:16.04] * Shala sighs
[00:16.08] <Nyarche> "But I think your accomplishments speak for themselves."
[00:16.17] <Nyarche> "Kallias is a long correspondant."
[00:16.39] <Nyarche> "I came to assist with the plan for the islands."
[00:16.54] <+Repriever> "Really?"
[00:17.03] <+Repriever> "Strange, coming from him."
[00:17.16] <Nyarche> "It is to be the greatest magical work of our generation, and it needs experts to deliver the correct result."
[00:17.29] <+Mel> "Ah, did he share the plans for the staged thaumatic conversion?"
[00:18.07] * Nyarche wears a long, voluminous blue robe with a silver circle on it. Her face is round, and she wears a hood, under which her eyes are blue and her hair blonde and short.
[00:18.18] <Nyarche> "Indeed."
[00:18.33] <+Mel> "I'm sure we shall speak of that again."
[00:18.33] <+Repriever> "I'd be curious to know what kind of work you do with Kallias."
[00:18.37] <Nyarche> "What I find more remarkable than the energetics are the low-consciousness parameters of the islet interfunctions."
[00:18.39] * Repriever smiles.
[00:18.54] <Nyarche> "But I have been brought in to supervise the scaling of the energetics."
[00:19.18] * Nyarche looks at Repriever as if he is made of potatoes.
[00:19.20] <Nyarche> "Magic."
[00:19.34] <+Mel> "I imagine Whitelay kept some notes, he and I had some productive discussions on the matter of the raw inputs, converting the ley energy of human devotion to their goddess to the gravitic and propulsion systems."
[00:19.59] <+Mel> "But yes, let's save technical plans for another hour- I think more will be arriving soon."
[00:20.27] <Nyarche> "Preferably Essence-initiated self-sustaining loops would be superior to...what was it, devotion?"
[00:20.31] <Nyarche> "But yes, another time."
[00:20.44] <Nyarche> "A pleasure meeting you all."
[00:20.50] <+Repriever> "Huh."
[00:21.04] * Kir (051266b8@ircip1.mibbit.com) has joined channel #nesdnd
[00:21.08] * You are now known as Kallias
[00:21.13] <Kallias> "You'll forgive Nyarche."
[00:21.15] * Repriever gives Kallias a real weird side-eye.
[00:21.19] <Kallias> "She's...well, she's a mancer."
[00:21.26] <Kallias> "I lost a lot of people, Repriever."
[00:21.30] <Kallias> "Good casters."
[00:21.31] * Mel nods.
[00:21.37] <Kallias> "And she's willing to work for free."
[00:21.43] <+Repriever> "You told me a story about a woman, once."
[00:21.47] <Kallias> "These spells have to be incanted on ALL the islands."
[00:21.55] <Kallias> "She's not demonic, Repriever, just an atheist."
[00:22.03] <Kallias> "Admittedly, shades of distinction."
[00:22.12] <Kallias> The doors open again.
[00:22.14] <+Repriever> "Ah, and damned good at concealing herself."
[00:22.33] * You are now known as Luteia
[00:22.45] <Luteia> "The party of the Citadel of Abjuration!"
[00:23.07] <Luteia> "Warden Thesis, Lord Morningstar, and Sir Dolomite!"
[00:23.23] * Mel stands for the Wardens.
[00:23.35] * Mel also wonders what mobile form Morningstar is in, to be here, or if this is remote.
[00:23.39] <Luteia> "Of the Astarans, Starborn Jari and Ironrose!"
[00:23.43] * You are now known as DM
[00:24.01] <DM> Morningstar appears to be taking a new form, a small mobile tripod walking on three legs; obviously not her main body.
[00:24.17] * Repriever approaches Jari and Ironrose as they enter to exchange greetings.
[00:24.24] * Mel is always so happy to see her child growing on its own.
[00:24.37] <DM> Its center bears one of the golden crystals you saw deep below the Reliquary.
[00:25.04] <DM> "Creator!" it chimes.
[00:25.04] <+Mel> [Mel would probably be pleased to find Morningstar walking around with a portable shield and death ray, she might have a blindspot for that mechanical mind]
[00:25.16] <+Mel> "Amutat, a pleasure to see you again."
[00:25.24] * DM sets mode +v Kir for #nesdnd
[00:25.47] * You are now known as Ironrose
[00:25.51] * Ironrose immediately hugs Repriever.
[00:26.01] * Repriever returns it in kind.
[00:26.08] <Ironrose> "I wonder what's more dangerous, Zarmahl or here," she whispers quietly.
[00:26.13] <Ironrose> Then smiles.
[00:26.23] <+Repriever> "Always here."
[00:26.32] <Ironrose> Jari is kneeling, awaiting blessing.
[00:26.34] <+Shala> "I'm beginning to become nervous at just how many of us can fit in"
[00:26.43] * You are now known as DM
[00:26.43] * Repriever pulls the fool to his feet.
[00:26.55] <+Repriever> "You don't kneel."
[00:27.06] <DM> "We kneel to none but the stars."
[00:27.08] * You are now known as Jari
[00:27.14] <Jari> "And you are the stars themselves."
[00:27.25] * Shala gives a sidelong glance to Repriever
[00:27.33] <+Repriever> "The stars are pleased to have you on your feet."
[00:27.42] <+Repriever> "She sees and welcomes you."
[00:27.46] * Mel smiles at that line.
[00:27.48] * Jari lowers his head, covering his eyes and raising them.
[00:28.06] <Jari> "I am grateful to serve Her bearer again."
[00:28.18] <Jari> "Elydia WILL flower."
[00:28.28] <+Repriever> "Yes. Yes, it will."
[00:28.38] * You are now known as DM
[00:28.49] <DM> The room is becoming increasingly packed with guards and dignitaries, and yet more are coming in.
[00:29.11] <DM> Varduk sheepishly pokes his head around the corner, trying to avoid attention.
[00:29.29] <DM> He somehow manages to avoid being announced, lucky him.
[00:30.33] <DM> "Ialtanas of the Green. Dylim of the Silver."
[00:30.36] <+Repriever> [I would like to spot his aura]
[00:31.20] <+Repriever> "Jari, fetch that mancer," he says, pointing out Varduk.
[00:31.23] * Repriever says this low.
[00:31.24] <+Mel> [These two are for which faction again?]
[00:31.39] <DM> A green tarcirath and a silver tarcirath you have not seen before, bearing rich cloaks and chains of office, enter.
[00:31.53] <DM> They appear to be speakers for the colors that lost their dragons long ago.
[00:31.55] <+Mel> [that answers that]
[00:32.11] * Repriever notes these two, and nods to Penumbra.
[00:32.17] <DM> "Vyriscine the Violet!"
[00:32.27] <+Repriever> "They've been orphaned a long time," he whispers to Penumbra.
[00:32.45] * Mel smiles and throws a nod of acknowledgement to Vyriscine as she comes in.
[00:33.01] <DM> Vyriscine enters, half-bowing gracefully towards Mel, and the party.
[00:33.13] <DM> Varaine scuttles in behind her, scanning the room.
[00:33.14] * Penumbra nods back, replying "So have we."
[00:33.57] * Repriever whispers, "Same time."
[00:34.04] * Penumbra returns the look, in acknowledgements of their teamwork at Zarmuhl
[00:34.20] * You are now known as Vyriscine
[00:34.24] <Vyriscine> "Well."
[00:34.33] <Vyriscine> "We sure did take down that system I built efficiently."
[00:34.40] <Vyriscine> "Shame about the opportunists."
[00:34.44] <Vyriscine> "But the mission was completed."
[00:35.48] * You are now known as DM
[00:35.50] <+Penumbra> "It took all of us together to win."
[00:36.01] * Repriever always liked how Varaine looked and watches her now for a minute.
[00:36.25] <DM> The silver tarcirath spots Penumbra and jerks violently to the side.
[00:36.48] <DM> Varaine notes this with a half-smile.
[00:36.54] * Penumbra sees this reaction and looks back serenely
[00:37.20] <DM> Jari frog-marches a green-looking Varduk across the room.
[00:37.53] * You are now known as Varduk
[00:37.56] <Varduk> "Oh, gods."
[00:38.05] * Varduk stares at Repriever and the gang.
[00:38.08] <+Shala> "If it isn't the best Shala in the room"
[00:38.20] <Varduk> "Now they're calling me an Athtar-in-exile!"
[00:38.27] <Varduk> "In the High Athtar, that's YOU by the way, your name!"
[00:38.29] <+Repriever> "Thought you'd like spending time with her."
[00:38.42] <+Shala> "At least they're calling you something"
[00:38.48] <Varduk> "It isn't even my role, it was my father's!"
[00:38.52] <Varduk> "And my aunt's!"
[00:38.58] <Varduk> "And probably to be my cousin's, after that..."
[00:39.06] <Varduk> "But the point is, not, me!"
[00:39.20] * Repriever places a firm hand on Varduk's shoulder.
[00:39.35] <+Mel> "We find our ways into unexpected and sometimes unwanted positions."
[00:39.35] <+Repriever> "You'll make a great frontline commander."
[00:39.43] <Varduk> "Oh fuck me."
[00:39.45] <+Mel> "I grew up thinking I was going to be a wasteland treasure hunter."
[00:40.19] <+Penumbra> [shakes head/jk]
[00:40.23] <+Mel> "Don't spook the poor boy, we both know that'd be an awful place for 'im."
[00:40.23] * Shala cackles
[00:40.26] <Varduk> "I just wanted to retire to the sky vaults..."
[00:40.38] <Varduk> "Now I'm stuck in a miserable career of war and adventure..."
[00:40.43] <+Shala> "In my estimation, Varduk, you've earned your...reprieve. But a war's always on."
[00:40.46] <Varduk> "For you...heretics!"
[00:40.48] * Shala shrugs
[00:40.53] <+Repriever> "Now, now."
[00:41.18] <+Repriever> "I won't make you do anything you wouldn't be good at."
[00:41.27] <Varduk> "Not that there's anything wrong with a few tales of the lower world to impress people with back home, but truly..."
[00:41.29] <+Mel> "I mean, heretical is a relative term."
[00:41.33] * Varduk gives a sidelong glance.
[00:41.35] <Varduk> "You know."
[00:41.42] <Varduk> "Perhaps there is something I can help you with."
[00:41.58] <+Penumbra> "I heard you and the others have helped many at Tetraea."
[00:42.05] <Varduk> "If I'm really to govern the Tower in your name, Shala, well..."
[00:42.13] <Varduk> "I would do it. Gladly. Loyally."
[00:42.19] <Varduk> "The Great Tower will be yours."
[00:42.25] <Varduk> "But, well, I'll need you, of course."
[00:42.34] <Varduk> "To come and sweep out the trash, for our bold new era of reform."
[00:42.50] * Repriever places his hand on his hilt.
[00:42.54] <+Repriever> "Got a pretty good broom."
[00:43.02] <+Shala> "I would do so without hesitation."
[00:43.10] <Varduk> "Excellent, excellent."
[00:43.17] <Varduk> "And then ALL our ancient weapons will be at your disposal!"
[00:43.37] <Varduk> "Truly necessary for you to fight our gods when they come to earth."
[00:44.21] <Varduk> "I'll see if I can rally a faction in your support."
[00:44.35] <+Repriever> "D'you enjoy dressing as Shala?"
[00:44.38] <Varduk> "I can't promise much, but I'm sure there are some who will defy the Planar Council."
[00:44.45] * Varduk straightens his back.
[00:44.48] <Varduk> "Well, no."
[00:44.52] <+Repriever> "We might need a target again."
[00:44.57] <Varduk> "But I suppose it was nice having the peasants cheer at me."
[00:45.02] <Varduk> "Or whatever it is they were doing."
[00:45.29] <Varduk> "Almost enough to make me understand why you do this for a living."
[00:45.39] * Mel laughs.
[00:45.54] <+Mel> "I can't speak for all of us, but that honestly ain't none of it."
[00:46.01] <Varduk> "I hit, a black tarcirath..."
[00:46.06] <Varduk> "In the face!"
[00:46.10] <Varduk> "With a lightning bolt!"
[00:46.17] * Varduk giggles at the sheer audacity of it.
[00:46.30] * Mel grins and nods her head.
[00:46.33] <+Mel> "War is madness. You did well."
[00:46.37] <Varduk> "It was, if I do say so myself, genuinely heroic."
[00:46.46] <+Mel> "Sounds like it."
[00:47.00] <+Shala> "Much more than embassy work"
[00:47.10] <+Mel> "Everyone who puts their lives on the line for something like this is doing heroics, to their own capacity."
[00:47.35] <+Mel> "Just the same as the mages, the greatest warriors, the common infantrywoman."
[00:47.44] <Varduk> "I suppose...Athtar Varduk Bel Zimmalek..."
[00:47.47] * Varduk considers.
[00:47.52] <Varduk> "You're right."
[00:47.56] <Varduk> "Heroism is worth the cost."
[00:48.05] <Varduk> "For a better world, for our children!"
[00:48.09] <+Mel> "It's about being something bigger than yourself. Find your own thing."
[00:48.14] <+Mel> "If it's for your own legacy, so be it."
[00:48.35] <+Mel> "Everyone has their own driver."
[00:48.37] <Varduk> "Once this is done, I just want to retire somewhere."
[00:48.52] <Varduk> "Be the margrave of some forgotten rural estate, perhaps."
[00:48.56] <+Repriever> "I'll make sure you never have to lift a finger again."
[00:49.09] <+Shala> "Eugh, what have we done to you"
[00:49.30] <+Shala> "A margrave? In the boonies?"
[00:49.34] * Repriever isn't clear if he's saying he'll kill him or buy him a house.
[00:49.41] * Mel perks up at the mention of boonies.
[00:49.46] <Varduk> "Well, perhaps I see things differently now."
[00:49.53] <Varduk> "A little bit of exposure to low culture has seasoned me."
[00:50.17] <+Shala> "I, too, can survive on just 2 baths a day"
[00:50.28] * Shala takes a sip of a drink
[00:50.28] <Varduk> "Wait, you can only have two?"
[00:50.34] * Varduk sighs deeply.
[00:50.38] <+Shala> "Oh, it is rough."
[00:50.45] <Varduk> "Frontier sacrifices."
[00:50.55] <Varduk> "Perhaps I'll even grow a beard."
[00:51.03] * Mel considers.
[00:51.05] <Varduk> "No, no...but I can prestidigitate myself to always have stubble..."
[00:51.08] <+Repriever> "I'm glad I didn't kill you in Tetraea, Varduk."
[00:51.10] <+Mel> "I think you could pull off a beard quite well."
[00:51.38] <Varduk> "Well, my good colleagues, I'll leave you to the warmaking."
[00:51.55] <Varduk> "Thank you, for not killing me."
[00:51.58] <+Mel> "Carry on, Vardu, you're doing well."
[00:52.09] <+Mel> [*Varduk, typo]
[00:52.13] * Varduk sweeps his crimson cloak and strides away with as much of his dignity is left.
[00:52.16] <+Repriever> [oh no you forgot his name]
[00:52.22] <+Mel> [well done Vardo]
[00:52.27] <+Shala> "[good work voldo]
[00:52.28] <+Repriever> "I mean it, you know."
[00:52.35] <+Mel> [nice going waldo]
[00:52.47] <+Repriever> "I would have killed him in Tetraea."
[00:52.50] * You are now known as DM
[00:52.54] <+Repriever> "I'm glad I didn't."
[00:52.55] <DM> Tap, tap, tap.
[00:53.14] <DM> Carcephon is seated at the end of the room, in a throne of pale blue-veined marble.
[00:53.40] <DM> And the crowd quiets as she summons them to silence with her sceptre on the floor.
[00:54.03] * You are now known as Carcephon
[00:54.20] <Carcephon> "Nobles, allies, human, or draconic."
[00:54.35] <Carcephon> "We are here for one reason, and one reason alone."
[00:54.41] * Mel mouths 'and elf'.
[00:54.49] * You are now known as Ayla
[00:54.53] <Ayla> "Huh? Oh, yeah!"
[00:54.59] * You are now known as Carcephon
[00:55.04] <Carcephon> "To save our world."
[00:55.19] <Carcephon> "And there are many threats against which we must ally."
[00:55.29] <Carcephon> "But one, first and above all."
[00:55.46] <Carcephon> "The tyranny of my father, Kharvalath the Red."
[00:56.19] <Carcephon> "He is insane, through no fault of his own, but the curse of my grandmother Ilia."
[00:56.29] * Repriever does not look to her, but to her captive audience.
[00:56.57] <Carcephon> "Those who fought under him, Zathindra and Lakhmul, are gone."
[00:57.06] <Carcephon> "Now only his Imperial seat remains."
[00:57.18] <Carcephon> "In the Six, and their Essences, we hold the power to end my father's suffering."
[00:57.25] <Carcephon> "And so we will do so."
[00:57.50] <Carcephon> "And against the Red we shall send the greatest armament ever raised in the history of Arta."
[00:58.32] <Carcephon> "Now let us all, lift our swords, and our wands, to this first and final victory!"