Plotting with Pachua [8/8]

[14:30] "Well, perhaps you're a few years late?"

The eyes shoot over towards them as there was just a hint of a smile that ran from his countenance. They wanted a fight, but that fight was destroyed ten years before anything could happen. If such was the case, then they should've landed in Myllenoris or anywhere that had the fighting spirit left.

"Or landed in a wrong direction?

Nysea is more to west, and where the new queen is. The King died years ago..."
(Pachua)
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[14:30] Artemis Task asks, "Pachua. I see you are...making friends?"
[14:31] Artemis steps in, flicking eyes between the Fireblooded and the Corporal.
(Artemis Task)
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[14:32] Pachua says, "Could say that."
[14:33] Artemis Task asks, "Yes. I could. And did. Is that not the case?"
[14:33] "Don't get me wrong." Vardah's smile slowly fades.

"I'm not one of those warriors who blindly seeks a fight wherever they go. If it can be avoided, well, that's all the better. In my opinion." She adjusts her cap, and turns to face the newcomer.

"Pachua is your name, then. That would have been my next question. Our standing orders were just to reinforce the General's power here in Osrona. So that we may assist her in the campaigns to come."

She offers a quick wave over toward Artemis.
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[14:33] Spinning around in the wooden stool towards the tension riddled moment to their west, the rat orphan closed their knife and watched, curling up their knees to their chest in the chair.
(Zima Dozhd')
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[14:35] "If that's the case, then?" he said with a fading smile.

"Then you're already one of the good soldiers who follow orders, only making sure that the betterment of the future in mind for your endevours, which is something I can respect." His eyes then went to the side to Artemis with a sigh, only to go back towards Varadh.

"Pachua Drakos, Patriarch of the Pyrelight Citadel, Leader of the Fireblooded Order, and Council Member of Theria," he said in order from greatest to not-so-great.

"And a War Veteran. This is Artemis."
(Pachua)
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[14:40] Artemis takes another smooth step forward, carrying herself tall. She nods to the Corporal. A sharp glance is paid to Pachua and she clears her throat.

"Lady Artemis Task. Initiate of the Fireblooded. It would be better if you could make proper introductions, Pachua," she remarks. If one wants something done right, it must be done by their own hand.

"Whom do I have the pleasure of speaking to?"
(Artemis Task)
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[14:42] Awilix passes a lazed glance between her two conscious subordinates- one a little quiet, and one conversing with foreign bodies. She quietly uncorks a flask. Weren't there orders not to drinkl for the first few years that they're there? Well, you can't prove it's alcohol. And they don't look like snitches. Sip.
(Awilix Zero)
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[14:44] Vardah offers as warm a smile as she could.

It's surprisingly genuine. Unlike the other Barsburgian soldiers occupying Osrona, who seemed, themselves, like their own machines. Emotionless. Cold...

Vardah seemed like she had some life in her.

"Corporal Vardah Alves Hascouet-Mordiem. I'm just an NCO. Nobody special. I've seen my fair share of war, prior to coming here. Well met, then, Pachua and Artemis." She didn't bother with their honorifics or titles. Ultimately, it meant nothing to her.

"Theria, hm? How is Theria taking us? Your... new neighbors?"
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[14:45] Vardah gives a quick look at the Lieutenant's flask. Water, surely. Surely, not bad-juice.
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[14:46] Artemis smells bad juice. But she ain't no snitch.
(Artemis Task)
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[14:47] A good question.

Sadly, it had to go unanswered with a single look that went over towards Vardah once again. As much as he wanted to answer in his own special way, he had his orders like everyone else when it came to these.

Besides, she did seem to have a spark of life in them; they weren't so dead.

"A veteran to a veteran, then," he said warmly and doing a dismissively nod off to the side.

"As for neighbors, I do like that you all have your little outfit and identity, something that has been awfully missing everywhere else on this land, even I had to take a moment to organize my own section to dress accordingly." A chortle to come as his serpent fangs came in full display where his canines were.

"Tell us, how much experience do you have? Color me curious."
(Pachua)
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[14:51] Artemis keeps her poise and bearing, but when she glances over Pachua as he speaks she cannot seem to truly suppress the roll of her eyes that comes with his collective words.

"Yes. Well met.

For my personal opinion? It is too soon to tell. Your people have been respectful enough, which is admirable. If you want that opinion, in truth, you may wish to speak to my elder brother, Valero Task. The Overlord. Or my father, the Elder Dun Task."
(Artemis Task)
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[14:51] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: Laying it on a bit thick, aren't we?
[14:56] "Interesting titles..." Vardah remarks. She closes her eyes, shrugs. Inhales, deep. Long. In response, the magi-technical battery tube she had strapped to her back began to hum with some increased latent power output.

Seems to return to normal after a few seconds.

"I was conscripted as a teenager," she says. "I've seen a complete tour already. So, only about four, five years of actual combat experience. I'm still pretty new at all this, truth be told."

She waves at the surrounding soldiers.

"Some of the others have decades on me. But most of us have been part of successful annexation campaigns. Many once-sovereign states brought into the fold of Barsburg. Unified, under the flag of progress. My hope is that the whole of Esshar follows Osrona, and is brought into the fold with little quarrel."

Her eyes squint. "So we can all go home."
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[14:57] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: And if -that- there did not tell you why to be careful. There is no hope for you, Pachua.
[15:02] "You're not too much older than me, are you then?" He asked with a smile that was growing, and as they continued to talk, he only seemed to let his eyes focus upon them and what they had.

"I see. My fights began when I was around Fourteen myself, six years of combat experience and I'm in a similar boat as you." Leaning back, he looked over to Artemis with a single nod to follow.

If anything, he only wanted to keep talking to get a firm understanding of what they were talking about. Information is a thing, wasn't it? "Theria believes in things much similar; progress and never being stagnant. A partnership could be in the works so that we can all move forward."

Upon saying that, though, he looks over towards the angle of the Sun, only sighing for a while and turning away from Vardah towards Artemis. "Hopefully, those in Myllenoris and those that stay to their happy-go-lucky balance can follow in your foot steps of going forward?"
(Pachua)
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[15:02] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: Play it cool.
[15:03] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: ...This had best be a ploy, Pachua. Or I may have to do more than pluck your feathers from your wings.
[15:03] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: Of course.
[15:06] Artemis, eyes half-lidded, continues to watch Pachua from her periphery with what might just be an undercurrent of annoyance. She remains pointed in the Corporal's direction. It is most polite given the conversation, after all.

"It's so. Theria has long been a proponent of progress. We've a factory of our own up in the mountains. One headed up by my other brother, Hades Task. He's an alchemist of some renown in these lands," she explains.

"I imagine those most opposed to your ideals might be the demons or Myllenoris. Likely both. The former typically stands for little else but their own supremacy, and the latter are...

Well. If you will excuse simple terms, naïve hippies that are so self-involved with themselves that they often see genocide of all others as their only option. Their history with Osrona is a dark one. Myllenoris' Teraphim once had a bloody purge of this place that the people of the continent still have not forgotten."
(Artemis Task)
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[15:07] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: If they seek to conquer...we can give them a target.
[15:09] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: Read my mind.
[15:12] Vardah offers a single nod at Pachua. Her un-gauntleted right hand holds the brim of her cap steady. "Twenty-one years old," she says. "Twenty-two this year."

She listens to the both of them express their opinions of Myllenoris. She'd done her homework on Esshar long before she was deployed here. She knew of the conflic they spoke of. Perhaps a lot better than most of her peers. But she liked to keep some things secret.

"As Corporal of the Diamond Eagles, it is my duty to purge and subjugate demons. It's our role to clean up the messes that your peoples, or your ancestors, have allowed to fester. But that's usually the case, when we come into a new country.

We fix their problems."

One finger idly taps her cap as she pauses to think. "Myllenoris will surely be a problem, yes. But it's also because of Myllenoris that we're even here to begin with, I'd wager."
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[15:16] Almost like a lingering snake, Pachua would only listen towards more that they had to say with an amusing grin to flourish from him. "Such a wonderful young one, and capable, you would do fine in Theria if you ever wish to cleanse them should they survive the battle here."

The forked tongue of his that was also akin to a snake came out, only for him to cover his mouth as he lets his eyes look off towards the south western part of Esshar. "They plan to go towards the bridge south of here, and they will only continue their march west to get their so called Vale."

A shrug. "That Vale lingers evil spirits and things that would only ruin more progress since they worship it, but the demons believe that whatever is in there is worth having, and worth sacrificing lives for it. Surely, there is something that could be done about it?"
(Pachua)
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[15:23] Artemis arches one brow and turns her head towards Pachua more fully. Her nose wrinkles, yet her words remain directed forward.

"Yes, well. They have certainly become an issue of late, it seems. Here and elsewhere. I hope they are in their last throes," she comments crisply.

"And how is it that you feel Myllenoris is the reason you are here?"
(Artemis Task)
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[15:23] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: Gods, it's almost like you're inviting her on our doorstep. You are laying it on -too- thick. I'm telling you.
[15:24] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: If she makes the foolish idea of walking into Theria and talk wreckless, we kill her.
[15:24] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: Then we make her disappear.
[15:24] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: Simple.
[15:25] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: That is all fine and good, but - gah...nevermind.
[15:25] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: Nothing wrong with making them feel special, it's called decite for a reason.
[15:27] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: Yes, but you could maintain some dignity while you do it.
[15:28] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: Believe me, I am -well- acquainted with the method you are using.
[15:29] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: I'm not sorry for telling them that they are capable and wonderful, there's nothing wrong with having respect for the fact they know how to fight.
[15:29] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: There is something wrong, though, if they fuck with Theria.
[15:29] Vardah can't help but raise an eyebrow at Pachua's first words. Wonderful young one? Something about that sounded weird, to her. She shakes her head. "The Vale, I've heard much about. In fact."

She points her thumb back to the magical device strapped to her back.

"I've actually been there before."

She lets that sink in for a while, before she elaborates. "But in the Shadowlands. Far to the east, in the Shadowlands, a similar place of spectral power exists. A forest. A place where, the natives say, the World Tree's great roots intersect in the physical world.

Well, I was there, and I scooped up a bit of that power for myself. It's still alive, and kicking. And it's not evil. So I'd say that this 'Vale' is something similar. It's a resource. And like all resources, it can be used to fuel machines of good, and evil."

Her eyes wander down to the floor and she lets out a sigh.

"But here in Barsburg, we don't concern ourselves with the pedestrian morality binary. Good and evil is relative. All we care about is progress." She then addresses Artemis' last question.

"It's because Osrona is in shambles that we walked in without a fight. That is what I meant. Your civil wars have weakened you."
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[15:32] Newt adds a few more things to his stockpile for the Elders, noticing that some had been taken already.

"Way too heavy. My back is killing me."

A rare complaint, but one that he overcomes once the various gear and weapons are placed in a very particular formation on the ground.

Armor for the body, throwing materials for the head, and an axe for the tail.

He was building a giant lizard made of weapons. Or something like that.

"It's almost complete! A monument to the resilience of the machine!"

He throws his head back to the sky and cackles, only to realize that he was still in public and waddle off. "See ya', Vardah."
(Newt)
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[15:33] Vardah raises her eyebrows in intrigue.
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[15:33] Vardah snatches one thing!!!
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[15:33] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem exclaims, "Good work, as always, Newt-!"
[15:34] As the spoke of the Shadowlands, the face that he was making would slowly go from that smile, to a more horrible scowl that reaches to a central center. "I see."

"I'm glad that you in Barsburg have a similar idea to us in Theria; Good and Evil don't exist." Afterwards, however, he would only start to turn around to start walking away from the area. There was something... that was bothering him truly.

"Take it easy, then."
(Pachua)
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[15:36] Artemis Task says, "It is a very Therian idea, to be sure..."
[15:37] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: I wish to borrow you for practice later.
[15:37] Still holding onto the brim of her cap, Vardah tips her head some at Pachua. Either she didn't notice Pachua's sudden shift in attitude, or it wasn't worth noting in any way.

"Glad to see there's some things we can agree on," she says in conclusion.

"Fare well, Pachua."
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[15:37] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: If you find me. If not?
[15:37] Pachua says, "Indeed."
[15:38] Pachua asks, "A hint of advice, however?"
[15:38] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: I do not wish to play hide-and-seek.
[15:38] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "I will never turn down free advice."
[15:38] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: Go on your way, then.
[15:38] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: I don't play hide and seek.
[15:38] Pachua says, "In case you didn't know, there are demons who have evolved beyond a sudden state that makes them human-like. Those are the strongest ones."
[15:38] Pachua says, "Don't let your lessers fight them."
[15:38] Pachua whispers to Artemis Task: I'm simply going to be in Theria.
[15:39] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "We've brought tribes of demons to heel before. They are usually lead by demons that assume humanoid form."
[15:39] Artemis Task whispers to Pachua: Then I will see you later.
[15:39] Pachua says, "Fascinating."
[15:39] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "They're more terrifying than any living thing in this world."
[15:39] Pachua nodded, and then waved as he walks off.
(Pachua)
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[15:40] Vardah folds both arms behind her back, and leans forward.
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[15:40] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "Thought you would leave with him, Artemis."
[15:40] Artemis Task asks, "Hm? No. What would give you that impression?"
[15:41] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "I do not know. You seemed... hm. For better word? A unit."
[15:42] Artemis Task says, "A...unit? No. He is technically my instructor where the Fireblooded are concerned."
[15:42] Artemis puts heavy emphasis on 'technically'.
(Artemis Task)
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[15:42] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "A miscalculation. I apologize."
[15:42] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "You never know."
[15:44] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "And now, this momentary distraction's over with. Back to... hm. Maybe I'll see what's going on inside."
[15:44] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "An interesting talk, for certain."
[15:44] Artemis Task says, "It is of no trouble. No blood, no foul, as they say."
[15:44] Artemis Task says, "Yes. Englightening. Be well, Corporal."
[15:44] Anira says, "The answer was nothing. Nothing was going on inside."
[15:44] Vardah walks off with a sigh of relief, throwing both arms behind her head.
(Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem)
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[15:44] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem asks, "Nothing-?"
[15:44] Anira says, "I didn't see anything."
[15:44] Vardah Hascouet-Mordiem says, "Saddest thing I've ever heard."
[15:45] Anira says, "I know, right? I feel like we've taken that entire space for granted, and that it may vanish at random."
[15:49] {Item} You picked up Glowing Mushroom..
[16:03] Artemis Task says, "Hm? Pachua."
[16:03] Artemis Task says, "Afternoon."
[16:03] Pachua says, "Come on."
[16:03] Artemis Task asks, "To...what?"
[16:07] Artemis Task says, "..."
[16:07] Artemis Task asks, "Did you ask me to stand here to watch you cook?"
[16:07] Pachua asks, "What?"
[16:07] Pachua says, "Oh. Yeah."
[16:07] Pachua asks, "Like my room?"
[16:07] Artemis Task says, "It is decently decorated."
[16:07] Pachua says, "Thanks."
[16:07] Pachua says, ".... this saddens me to come in here."
[16:07] Artemis Task asks, "Why?"
[16:07] Artemis Task says, "Other than it's poorly decorated."
[16:07] Pachua says, "It's Dun's room."
[16:07] Artemis Task says, "That would make sense then."
[16:08] Artemis Task says, "....He will be missed."
[16:08] Artemis Task says, "I know his time is short."
[16:08] Pachua says, "I wonder if I can ask for him to give me..."
[16:08] Pachua says, "His blessing to have this house."
[16:08] Pachua says, "You could totally, definitely, have this room."
[16:08] Artemis wrinkles her nose at Pachua.
(Artemis Task)
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[16:08] Artemis Task says, "....It's alright. I've claimed a piece of Theria for myself elsewhere."
[16:08] Pachua asks, "Oh?"
[16:09] Pachua asks, "Can... I see then?"
[16:09] Artemis Task says, "Yes. Though I haven't finished redecorating."
[16:09] Artemis Task says, "When I am through. I've only just acquired it."
[16:09] Pachua says, "Let me see it."
[16:09] Pachua says, "Just the place."
[16:09] Artemis Task says, "...Very well."
[16:10] Artemis Task says, "This one, here."
[16:10] Pachua asks, "...oh?"
[16:10] Artemis Task says, "It used to be Revan's."
[16:10] Artemis Task says, "Now? It is mine."
[16:11] Pachua says, "It also used to belong to Dragonlord Rinn and her husband."
[16:11] Artemis Task says, "I will have to wash the smell of his harem out, still."
[16:11] Pachua says, "...harem."
[16:11] Pachua asks, "... im sorry?"
[16:11] Artemis Task says, "Yes, well...I have a ways to go before I can be named any sort of Lord."
[16:11] Artemis Task says, "Valero has made that painfully clear."
[16:11] Artemis Task asks, "...Speaking of. Have you spoke with him?"
[16:11] Pachua says, "So I heard..."
[16:11] Pachua says, "I have."
[16:11] Pachua says, "He's busy, however."
[16:12] Artemis flinches. Her ears fold partially back.
(Artemis Task)
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[16:12] Artemis Task says, "Yes. So he is."
[16:12] Pachua asks, "Why did you two fight anyway?"
[16:12] Artemis Task asks, "...You do not know?"
[16:12] Pachua says, "No."
[16:13] Artemis grumbles. Her ears now are fully flat against her head.
(Artemis Task)
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[16:13] Artemis Task says, "He wanted to be the one to take Revan's life."
[16:13] Artemis Task says, "If I stand in his way, he has threatened me with death."
[16:13] Pachua says, "..."
[16:13] Pachua says, "I'm sorry that such was ruined."
[16:14] Artemis Task says, "Yes, well..."
[16:14] Pachua turns around, simply looking at them with sorrowful eyes.
(Pachua)
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[16:14] Artemis Task says, "I have such -delightful- brothers, as you can tell."
[16:14] Pachua asks, "Anything I can do to make you feel better?"
[16:14] Artemis folds her arms across her chest and clenches her jaw.
(Artemis Task)
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[16:14] Artemis Task says, "...No. I'll earn my place in the line and have my satisfaction."
[16:15] Artemis Task says, "I will not have it handed to me any longer."
[16:15] Pachua says, "Understood."
[16:15] Artemis Task says, "The offers is appreciated all the same."
[16:16] Pachua says, "I'm sorry."
[16:16] Pachua says, "If you want to practice now, we can."
[16:16] Artemis Task says, "...What for? It is not you threatening me with death."
[16:16] Artemis Task says, "There will be other deaths."
[16:16] Pachua says, "I wouldn't wish for it."
[16:16] Artemis Task says, "Few quite so satisfying...but there will be others."
[16:18] Artemis Task says, "Practice can happen later. There are a few things I need to take care of first."
[16:18] Artemis Task asks, "Are you just...milling about up here anyway?"
[16:18] Pachua asks, "...Miling?"
[16:18] Artemis Task says, "Yes. Wandering. Milling."
[16:18] Artemis Task says, "Roaming?..."
[16:18] Pachua says, "... yeah."
[16:18] Artemis Task says, "How dull."
[16:18] Pachua says, "I was just spending time up here, doing a little bit of a dance of sorts."
[16:19] Pachua says, "To clear my mind, so I don't harm anyone."
[16:19] Artemis Task asks, "A dance?"
[16:19] Pachua says, "Yeah."
[16:20] Pachua says, "I dance a lot."
[16:20] Pachua says, "In private, really."
[16:20] Artemis Task asks, "And this helps you...relax, I suppose?"
[16:21] Pachua asks, "...yeah?"
[16:21] Artemis Task says, "Hm."
[16:21] Pachua asks, "Do you expect me to be the one who just punches things?"
[16:22] Artemis Task says, "Honestly, yes."
[16:22] Pachua asks, "Or be like Revan and have a partner everyday to relieve my stress?"
[16:22] Artemis Task says, "We all have our vies though."
[16:22] Pachua says, "No..."
[16:22] Artemis shrugs.
(Artemis Task)
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[16:22] Pachua says, "I just dance at the very top of the mountain."
[16:23] Artemis Task says, "Whatever works for you. There are worse methods I'm sure."
[16:23] Pachua says, "Mhm."
[16:25] Artemis Task says, "...Pachua."
[16:25] Pachua asks, "Hm?"
[16:25] Artemis Task asks, "Tell me honestly. How do you feel about Barsburg?"
[16:25] Pachua says, "..."
[16:25] Artemis Task asks, "Their being there and doing what they are?"
[16:25] Pachua says, "I think this is better over a sip of wine."
[16:25] Pachua says, "And not out here, where we don't know who may be around."
[16:25] Pachua asks, "My place?"
[16:26] Artemis Task says, "Very well."
[16:26] Artemis Task asks, "You mean...my father's house?"
[16:26] Pachua says, "Yes."
[16:27] Pachua would go and get the big bottle of Blood Wine and two glasses, resting them firmly on the table in front of the pair as he sighs.

"I guess you're questioning their morality, then?"
(Pachua)
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[16:29] Artemis takes a seat, making herself right at home. Which she does just about anywhere she goes, being as arrogant as she has a tendency to be.

"Their morality? No, no. What do you take me for? I have taken to that part of the Fireblooded teachings well and have ever been in agreement.

No good or evil. It's not the morality I am concerned over."
(Artemis Task)
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[16:30] "Then?" he asked as he pops the cork and pours the two glasses, handing them a glass cup and having his own cup to sip from.

"What is it?"
(Pachua)
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[16:30] She takes the glass, swirls it under her nose, then takes a delicate sip.

"You know damn well they will come for Theria eventually. Don't you?"
(Artemis Task)
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[16:30] Artemis Task says, "They hold some similar things dear. But from what whispers I hear, not nearly all of them."
[16:31] Pachua says, "They will, eventually."
[16:32] Artemis Task asks, "And...? You see my concern, don't you?"
[16:32] Artemis Task says, "They have gained Osrona. Which was already becoming a major power."
[16:32] Pachua says, "I do."
[16:32] Artemis Task says, "They will continue to gain a foothold here."
[16:33] Pachua says, "They'll strike the demons first, then Myllenoris, before coming here."
[16:33] Artemis Task says, "And by then they'll have demons under them. And the Vale."
[16:33] Pachua says, "... I know that it will only be a matter of time."
[16:33] Artemis Task says, "They will only devour more."
[16:33] Pachua says, "... Yup."
[16:33] Artemis Task says, "We need to start devouring some things of our own, is what I am driving at."
[16:33] Pachua asks, "Like?"
[16:33] Artemis Task says, "..Subtly. If we can afford it."
[16:34] Artemis Task asks, "Nysea's lands are vacated now. Aren't they?"
[16:34] Artemis Task says, "I am sure there are resources there. "
[16:34] Artemis Task says, "There is the desert too, that's long been abandoned."
[16:34] Artemis Task says, "There are conquests of our own ripe for the taking, while all the rest of the world squabbles."
[16:34] Pachua says, "So, you want to go and take Nysea."
[16:35] Artemis Task asks, "It is a thought. There is literally no one there. Is there?"
[16:35] Pachua asks, "Even though most of it is evacuated entirely...?"
[16:35] Artemis Task says, "I walk through there often enough."
[16:35] Artemis Task says, "They have mines and resources still."
[16:35] Pachua says, "True, true..."
[16:35] Artemis Task says, "There are tunnels underneath there I've seen, too."
[16:35] Pachua says, "I'm sure Myllenoris ate it, though."
[16:35] Pachua says, "Though, if we are to be conquered, then I have the idea of destroying it from the inside out."
[16:36] Artemis Task says, "I have my doubts they have the time to do -all- of that."
[16:36] Artemis Task says, "They're beset by demons as it is."
[16:36] Pachua says, "Mm, true..."
[16:36] Artemis Task says, "My point is, really. We should not be idle in these times. We should all talk and make a strategy of some kind."
[16:36] Pachua says, "When Valero and Hades come by, of course."
[16:36] Artemis Task says, "When...they are so often busy. We may need to call on them to action."
[16:36] Pachua says, "But for now, the idea of biding our time until something of fruit comes is important at the moment."
[16:36] Artemis Task says, "I do not like biding time."
[16:36] Pachua says, "I don't either."
[16:36] Artemis Task says, "There are things to reach out and take. That we -should- take."
[16:36] Pachua says, "But Valero is not here, either."
[16:36] Pachua says, "I want his word."
[16:36] Pachua says, "Hades word, too."
[16:36] Pachua says, "When we have those, we can move forward."
[16:36] Artemis grumbles. She takes another slow sip of wine.
(Artemis Task)
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[16:36] * You have been awarded 1 Roleplay Points! *
[16:37] Pachua says, "I don't want to divide a council because I believe that it is a good idea, I want it all in one forward thinking."
[16:37] Pachua says, "It'll just destroy us from the inside."
[16:37] Pachua says, "And right now-"
[16:37] Pachua exclaims, "WE CAN'T AFFORD THAT!"
[16:37] Artemis Task says, "...Your point is valid."
[16:37] Artemis Task says, "I do not like it. But it is valid."
[16:37] Pachua downs the glass with a frustrated groan.
(Pachua)
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[16:37] Artemis Task says, "Sooner rather than later then."
[16:37] Artemis Task says, "They are more liable to listen to your call to gather than they are to mine, Pachua."
[16:38] Pachua says, "I know."
[16:38] Pachua says, "And I fucking hate it."
[16:38] Artemis Task says, "I am not fond of it either."
[16:38] Artemis Task says, "...But, to a point, it's not my problem."
[16:38] Pachua says, "I haven't had the best sleep these days, either."
[16:38] Artemis Task says, "Clearly you need to drink more wine."
[16:38] Pachua says, "So, I can't focus on it entirely."
[16:39] Pachua says, "And when I -do- sleep."
[16:39] Pachua says, "I just see myself Failing."
[16:39] Pachua simply pours himself another cup of wine, and then chugs it down from the glass.

"It's the most horrible feeling on Eternia, and I hate it so damn much."
(Pachua)
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[16:40] Artemis, by comparison, tempers her drinking. She takes slow sips even still.

"It is not a grand one, I will give you that. We have time to prepare and make sure failure doesn't come to pass. Only if we act quickly and decisively."
(Artemis Task)
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[16:42] Pachua asks, "Like?"
[16:42] Artemis Task asks, "Like what?"
[16:42] Pachua asks, "What can we do?"
[16:43] Artemis Task says, "Well..."
[16:44] Artemis' ears flick. One. Then the other. Back and forth for a moment.

"We know what they are capable of. With the collars, at least. We can continue gathering intelligence as they make their march.

Hades is an accomplished alchemist. Maybe he could come up with a brew or tincture to shield our people from such influences. Or one of our own artificers. We have a whole damned factory."
(Artemis Task)
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[16:46] Artemis Task says, "As I said otherwise, shoring up our resources."
[16:47] Artemis Task says, "The land is rife with them, if we know where to look. And having them for our own will also deprive Barsburg of them."
[16:48] Pachua says, "...I see."
[16:48] Pachua says, "That... is a thing we could do."
[16:50] Pachua asks, "What else can we do?"
[16:51] Artemis sighs. She leans forward, reaching for the bottle to top off her glass.

"Barsburg has artifacts and power sources abound. Myllenoris too, with their Vale. I see no reason we cannot find some of our own.

Gifted by dragons or otherwise. We do not have morality to hold us back as the Teraphim do. Our possibilities are endless."
(Artemis Task)
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[16:53] When Artemis goes for it, Pachua would take it and top it off himself, only to do the same for himself and start the slow sip that was there.

"You have an interesting mind, perhaps we need to meet the Dragons and see what we could get; perhaps we can even have Hades to take some of the technology and reverse engineer it for our own."
(Pachua)
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[16:53] There's no complaints from her. She takes her glass and leans back, reclining in the cushy chair.

"I do not have the same strengths Valero and Revan have. Mine lie elsewhere...For now. The other facets will be mine in time. That is my best recommendation for course of action.

What all of you choose to do with it is your decision."
(Artemis Task)
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[16:55] Artemis was correct.

However, there was ways to do better than just having the fists to back it up; he never said anything about it, though.

"I can see why we could use someone on the council like you. While Valero is relentless, Hades is a scientist, and I am the religious, we need someone to remind us that..."

"WE don't care about other life."
(Pachua)
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[16:58] Artemis is not without her cunning, without a streak of ruthlessness. Now? She craves the tooth and claw to back it up. In time. All in time.

She smirks as she drinks her second glass.

"It is an important reminder. No one is so important as our own, the continued growth of our strength, and our freedom. All else is secondary."
(Artemis Task)
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[16:58] Artemis Task says, "An advantage we should use."
[16:58] Pachua says, "All else -is- secondary."
[16:59] Pachua says, "And it is something to use..."
[16:59] Pachua says, "Valero and Hades, we just need to group up and talk."
[16:59] Artemis Task says, "As I said. You would be the one better to gather them."
[16:59] Artemis Task says, "I feel Valero will care more. Hades has always been more focused on his own work."
[16:59] Pachua asks, "Will you be around, then?"
[16:59] Artemis Task says, "Not that I can blame him."
[16:59] Artemis Task says, "If I am asked for? Yes."
[17:00] Artemis Task says, "Our position is unique, too....Perhaps we can make ourselves available to house the inevitable dissenters from Barsburg."
[17:00] Artemis Task says, "Better they come here than bolster the others."
[17:00] Pachua says, "It would be."
[17:00] Pachua says, "To use them, while they think to use us..."
[17:01] Pachua would let out just a chortle as he leans back and sips another from the wine, only letting his serpent teeth come out from his lips.

"It would be nice."
(Pachua)
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[17:01] Artemis Task says, "So long as we come out on top. "
[17:02] Artemis Task says, "And thankfully we are not in the way of their marching yet, it looks."
[17:03] Pachua says, "We are not."
[17:03] Pachua says, "They want the demons."
[17:03] Pachua says, "And to just do what the general says."
[17:03] Pachua says, "If anything, they would want to fuck with the demons and the rest of them."
[17:04] Artemis Task says, "But my point remains."
[17:04] Artemis Task says, "We will still be their target eventually."
[17:05] Pachua says, "fAnd when it comes..."
[17:05] Pachua says, "We need to be prepared."
[17:05] Pachua asks, "Will you be my advisor, and keep my mind straight, Artemis?"
[17:05] There's a slow nod and an even slower, savoring drink of wine.

"You're finally catching on. And that depends. Do you need an advisor, or an executioner?" She asks with an easy grin.
(Artemis Task)
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[17:06] Pachua moved a hand over to their shoulder, only letting it curl around their neck and having the hand rest right then and there upon their chest with a dangle.

A simple pull.

"I need both."
(Pachua)
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[17:08] Again her ears twitch. Artemis watches that hand of his very carefully. And if it strays too close to her chest? She nudges it aside to remain only on her shoulders.

"Then I can provide."
(Artemis Task)
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[17:10] "Good."

A movement away now that they were in a closer proximity, only to sip the drink further as to relax himself. A sigh that followed would find himself more relaxed in his mind than anything else.

It was that simple.

If there was something that he couldn't do or say, she was there...

"I do appreciate you."
(Pachua)
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[17:13] While physically she is still soft, at least when compared to the veteran warriors of Theria and her siblings, Artemis is a hard woman in other ways.

If a metaphorical, or literal throat needs to be cut? The beastkin is all too ready to oblige should the purpose be fitting. Or should she simply want it. Simple as that.

She lifts her glass slightly and nods, as if in silent toast to the Drakan.

"And I appreciate you. For your martial prowess. And for what you have done for my family and Theria. It will not be forgotten."
(Artemis Task)
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[17:14] His glass would meet with hers, only to sip the most out of it.

Even though they were soft, it was the fact that they were ready to kill at a moments notice. It was also the fact that the sharp, analytical mind of hers that made her something of fear.

But something he appreciated all the same...

"It's the least I can do, if there is anything else?"
(Pachua)
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[17:17] Artemis drains the last of her second glass, sufficiently relaxed and sated when the matter of drink was concerned. Besides, she has appearances to keep. She can't afford getting too sloppy.

Each of Theria's people brought something to the table. She has her wits. Pachua has his spirituality and combat prowess. Things like these were what made their city so great in its variety.

"Now? Practice. I think I'm ready for that practice."
(Artemis Task)
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