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[22:23:17] <[Multi]_Theo>	~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
[22:24:10] <[Multi]_Theo>	[[The princesses and Achel having left the room, Theodore turns to Eld and begins his private audience with her.]]
[22:26:12] <[Multi]_Theo>	I thank you for sharing what you have so far, but I would like to know more specifically what your designs are for Adeline and Hauterres. Now that you have been introduced to us, I imagine that your role in Adeline's life will chage somewhat significantly; how would you desire it change?
[22:30:50] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I would seek to understand those that Adeline serves.  It is unfortunate that she seeks to know so little about those she is to protect.  After I achieve a judgement I am certain of I will attempt to convince Adeline of a course of action.
[22:33:06] <[Multi]_Theo>	You said earlier that you can hear and see everything that Adeline does. This means that you've already had a fair bit of exposure to the Princesses and to me; what you say now implies that you feel that this isn't enough information to paint a good picture of them. Does this mean that you want to speak to them for yourself?
[22:41:37] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Yes, it is woefully insufficient, I seek to understand these princesses and how well they truly represent their people.  It is shocking that Adeline has not made an attempt to pursue greater knowledge of lands she has not had the privilege to visit.
[22:42:53] <[Multi]_Theo>	You find it shocking? I think it's unsurprising, knowing what of her I do.
[22:45:51] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	It is unacceptable, I cannot fathom how this would be allowed to go on considering the role she is to fill
[22:46:29] <[Multi]_Theo>	You mean, as servant to the Prime Daughters?
[22:52:28] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I do.  Though her discomfort  in the position you have appointed her would contribute to her lack of curiosity
[22:53:47] <[Multi]_Theo>	Do you think it's a bad fit for her? If it's a position that makes her disinterested in exploring what would maker her better at it...
[22:57:25] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	It is nothing that cannot be remedied, however, should you decide that she is unable to fulfill her role I would ask that you inform me before her dismissal
[22:57:40] <[Multi]_Theo>	I will do so.
[22:58:16] <[Multi]_Theo>	I must say, though, I'm a bit surprised that your primary motivation here would be to help Adeline become a better servant.
[23:01:18] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	You are mistaken, my primary goal is to ensure that Adeline can continue her life without fear of her own demise
[23:03:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	It's interesting that you should say that; it seems to me that you have something of a vested interest in keeping her alive.
[23:08:02] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Indeed, being cut from my home has left me vulnerable to the same fate that should befall Adeline
[23:13:40] <[Multi]_Theo>	And yet, you would encourage her to be lessa afraid of what would be the destruction of both of you.
[23:17:23] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Less afraid?  Awareness will be a boon to her survival here
[23:18:18] 	 * [Multi]_Theo is a bit confused.
[23:19:37] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm sorry. You say that you wish her to be less afraid of death, even though it woudl be your death as well. But noe, you seem to say that it's less about fear and more about awareness. Awareness of what, exactly?
[23:26:30] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Of a group of people, a culture that misunderstands and would seek an innocent girl's life.  Dispelling myths and wrongful accusations will require understanding.  If this proves to be fruitless effort at the least my curiosity will be satisfied
[23:28:41] <[Multi]_Theo>	Hm! It would seem your work and mine would be aligned, then. It will be necessary to foster understanding between disparate cultures. If you can help Adeline with what have heretofore been rather unsuccessful attempts at that, I would be greatly pleased.
[23:29:51] <[Multi]_Theo>	But as to the matter of Hauterres. You gathered us all here today to tell us of it, and in so doing, relate your origin; what was your intention in doing so? Clearly, it was unsucessful in convincing Zirren that yours is a tolerable presence.
[23:33:53] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Hauterres still has a great deal to offer, for better or worse
[23:35:44] <[Multi]_Theo>	And it was out of a spirit of benefince on your part that you thought to alert me to the opportunity?
[23:39:40] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	It would benefit all to retake the land before an abundance of magical horrors bleed forth from the heart of Hauterres
[23:41:08] <[Multi]_Theo>	And I plan to hear more about how you'd suggest we go about that at a later point.
[23:41:43] <[Multi]_Theo>	In the meantime, if we do manage to retake the land and stem the tide of horrors you say it will issue, what then?
[23:44:13] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	There is an abundance of ore, magical and otherwise, that I believe would prove valuable to most nations.
[23:46:51] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm sure we could find use for this ore, but in whose name would we mine it? Do you think we could simply walk in, quell whatever magical terrors are breeding, and claim it as our own?
[23:49:18] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Could Adeline or her sisters not inherit their rightful home?
[23:49:58] <[Multi]_Theo>	Ah. You would want to see the former monarchy restored, then.
[23:51:09] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Would it not benefit you?
[23:51:26] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm not sure. It would be an altogether tricky business.
[23:51:51] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm interested to hear what you have to say on the matter, and why you think it would be to my benefit to see hauterres rise again.
[23:55:31] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	A neutral nation that benefits all does not serve to help unify the nations you have under your power?
[23:58:09] <[Multi]_Theo>	The trick is having another nation. It would simply complicate matters. Especially a nation that has gone virtually unheard of for more than tweenty years. Its legitemacy would be disputed, entirely new clouds of intrigue would spring up around it...if the monarchy is to be restored, then I feel there should be a very good reason for it, and it would also probably affect the way we would go about reclaiming the county in the first place.
[00:05:57] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	And what if Adeline could be sent in alone?  Dealing with creatures that are entirely magical in orient would be a simple task for her, even if she refuses to rely on anything more than the most basic of the capabilities that she draws from me
[00:09:51] <[Multi]_Theo>	That might be expedient, but the surrounding political landscape is complicated enough that that might not be the best option. It's simply that deciding a course of action will take some thought, and that includes over whether or not to try to resurrect the monarchy. If Adeline subjugates the entire country by herself, then does that help or harm a claim that she or one of her sisters might make on the throne? What does that say about the nation's 
[00:09:51] <[Multi]_Theo>	initial allegiance to me, as Adeline is currently in my employ? And, of course, even if we manage to secure the country's land, there is currently nobody living there. The nation would have to be repopulated, and where do those people come from?
[00:15:09] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	They come from other nations, Oyashima has a wealth of merchants who would surely be willing to transplant themselves.  This is another reason why I seek knowledge of other nations.
[00:16:26] <[Multi]_Theo>	That was precicely my worry. If the people of the new Hauterre are predominently from some other country, then why would that country have less of a claim to the land than some girl from somewhere claiming to have a divine right to it?
[00:17:22] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Are they capable of controlling the army that Hauterres has left as legacy?
[00:17:39] <[Multi]_Theo>	[[This catches Theodore's attention.]]
[00:17:53] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Their claims will mean little to such long standing defenders
[00:18:25] <[Multi]_Theo>	You believe that the magical mechanical army used to battle the vampires is still operational?
[00:20:16] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I have little doubt of it, I have seen firsthand what they are capable of surviving
[00:21:05] <[Multi]_Theo>	And you believe that you hold a secret to commanding it?
[00:21:50] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I believe that Adeline does
[00:23:20] <[Multi]_Theo>	Only she? Not her sisters?
[00:25:38] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Perhaps, but surely they will see benefit for Oyashima more than other nations
[00:26:08] <[Multi]_Theo>	You say this out of personal knowledge of them, I take it.
[00:27:50] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Surely at this point they will be considered full citizens of Oyashima regardless of my knowledge of them
[00:28:30] <[Multi]_Theo>	This would indicate that Adeline is your chosed queen of the new Hauterres, then.
[00:30:20] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Is this an issue?
[00:30:54] 	 * [Multi]_Theo pauses for a moment.
[00:31:31] <[Multi]_Theo>	I would rather she continue her position here; her abilities have proven priceless in maintaining order, and were one of the reasons that I selected her for the position.
[00:31:53] <[Multi]_Theo>	But more than that, I'll be interested to hear what she has to say to that when you broach the topic with her.
[00:32:51] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Oh?  Is she not undesired by those she is charged to protect?
[00:33:53] <[Multi]_Theo>	Just earlier, you spoke of creating an understanding between them.
[00:37:23] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I seek to establish more favorable conditions with future leaders, I cannot imagine that the woman of the sands would be willing to do trade with a "demon"
[00:37:46] <[Multi]_Theo>	That much we can agree on.
[00:38:26] <[Multi]_Theo>	So, if I understand you, you see your current mission to be making peace with the Princesses here so that they can later be allies when Adeline becomes the new queen of Hauterres.
[00:39:23] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	It would serve her well
[00:40:00] <[Multi]_Theo>	I see.
[00:40:30] <[Multi]_Theo>	One last subject -- what do you think of Adeline's relationship with Achel?
[00:44:21] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I find it dangerous, but Adeline seems unusually fond of her.  Separating the pair would likely be met with resistance.
[00:45:00] <[Multi]_Theo>	It doesn't bother you that Achel is a vampaire? A fact that you disclosed rather carelessly, earlier.
[00:46:41] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	The harm she can cause Adeline this way is minimized
[00:47:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm sorry -- which way? Being close to her, or being outed?
[00:50:10] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	She will be less careless if she knows that I will not hesitate to reveal her nature
[00:50:46] <[Multi]_Theo>	But now that you've revealed it, you've lost that leverage.
[00:52:04] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	The message is clear
[00:52:33] <[Multi]_Theo>	I see.
[00:53:13] <[Multi]_Theo>	And your warning to Achel about drinking Adeline's blood -- is this based on any particular magical knowledge, or out of a desire to keep them apart?
[00:55:30] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	As Adeline is now it would be challenging to predict the effects her blood would have on Achel
[00:56:42] <[Multi]_Theo>	Very well. I understand.
[00:57:23] <[Multi]_Theo>	I beleive that answers all the areas I was curious about personally. Is there anything that you would ask of me while we're gathered here?
[01:01:18] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I request access to any library and all literature present in your halls
[01:02:08] <[Multi]_Theo>	That can be arranged.
[01:05:11] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Excellent, then if there are no other concerns or pressing matters I will see myself to your "commons"
[01:06:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	I thought that you were eager to speak with Adeline?
[01:08:30] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	That will come in time, I have other business before I am met with her complete resistance
[01:10:07] <[Multi]_Theo>	What, pray tell?
[01:11:22] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	She is stubborn and it will take time for her to warm to all that we have discussed
[01:11:37] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Her aside I have much to learn about these other nations
[01:14:43] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	I can see no better way to accomplish this than speaking to their future leaders myself
[01:19:12] <[Multi]_Theo>	Do you know when you would consider returning my employee to my service?
[01:21:02] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	What I desire should take no more than several days
[01:22:11] <[Multi]_Theo>	You know, Eld, that Adeline is duty-bound to her position as a steward to the Prime Daughters.
[01:24:52] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	She will be physically performing her duties
[01:25:24] <[Multi]_Theo>	You beleive that you can perform them for her?
[01:33:00] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Do you believe I cannot?
[01:36:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	I am uncomfortable, at the very least, that I not have her consent. Having only a vague idea of how you might fulfill those duties, I cannot say how well you might manage them, but I do know that I trust Adeline in her office; it was, after all, she that I selected for it. I am unprepared to hand it off to a relative stranger with little preparation.
[01:36:57] <[Multi]_Theo>	Please, if you would, talk to Adeline first. If she would rather you not serve in her place, then I should hope you would allow her to perform her own duties.
[01:39:00] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	And if I should refuse?
[01:39:52] <[Multi]_Theo>	Then I will be sorely disappointed to have lost the services of one of my most trusted employees.
[01:44:49] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	My request is simple: three days to interact with and serve the Prime Daughters at which point I will return Adeline to where she belongs, there will be no bargaining or attempts to request for more time.
[01:50:37] 	 * [Multi]_Theo stares at Eld, his jaw clenched. After some seconds, he comes to a decision:
[01:51:20] <[Multi]_Theo>	Very well. At least let me have some time to inform the others that it will be you, and not Adeline, that will rejoin them.
[01:53:59] <[Mirr]_Adeline>	Do as you must
[01:58:52] <[Multi]_Theo>	In that case, I will be back here to summon you one the others are adequately breifed.
[02:15:25] 	 * [Multi]_Theo politely rises from his seat, leaving Eld sitting on the table, and returns to his office, to hold audience with the Prime Daughters and Achel.
[02:15:31] <[Multi]_Theo>	~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[22:06:50] <[Multi]_Theo>	~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
[22:07:40] 	 * [Multi]_Theo closes the door to Einosuke's laboratory, and makes the trip back to his office.
[22:10:39] 	 * [Cy]_River sits in the commons, reading a small book
[22:12:52] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren bursts into the commons from her room. Upon seeing River, she goes to sit near her.
[22:12:59] <[Naz]_Zirren>	I can't believe this. 
[22:13:06] <[Naz]_Zirren>	Or rather, I knew it all along. 
[22:14:30] <[Naz]_Zirren>	What I can't believe is the fact that Theo is willing to harbor a demon and a vampire even after their identities are revealed to his charges. I suppose I should have expected that as well, though. *She sets her arms on the table and rests her head in her hands, pushing up her bangs.*
[22:17:19] <[Cy]_River>	I must admit, I was surprised that Achel too was something unordinary. I know you've claimed it all along, but I did not have much evidence. Now her blood loss during that incident here makes sense.
[22:19:59] <[Cy]_River>	Adeline has become a complex case, but perhaps one with benefits.
[22:20:24] 	 * [Cy]_River turns the page
[22:21:05] <[Naz]_Zirren>	...Benefits? *Zirren stares at the woman in disbelief* What possible benefits could there be to keeping her around?
[22:23:12] <[Cy]_River>	Well firstly, the being Adeline carries in her has demonstrated itself as something not entirely malicious and perhaps more reasonable than Adeline herself.
[22:24:15] <[Cy]_River>	Secondly, I did not say anything about keeping her around, only that it has benefitted us to some degree now that we know something of the being Adeline is host for.
[22:24:43] 	 * [Cy]_River lowers her voice
[22:25:30] <[Cy]_River>	If nothing else, it has revealed details which allow us to make demands for change from Theo.
[22:25:48] 	 * [Cy]_River resumes her normal tone
[22:25:53] <[Cy]_River>	So I would say it has benefitted us.
[22:28:57] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren gives River a confused look and lowers her voice in response. "What could we demand from him? He most certainly won't remove the two."
[22:31:24] <[Cy]_River>	We could press for the means to suppress or control them, if not remove them.
[22:35:51] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren seems to think a moment, then says, "Hmm. That's true. In that case, perhaps it would be best to strike while the issue is fresh."
[22:36:03] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren stands up.
[22:38:27] <[Cy]_River>	Hm, yes.
[22:38:34] 	 * [Cy]_River rises from her seat
[22:44:57] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren begins towards Theo's office. "Let's go. This can't wait"
[22:45:05] 	 * [Cy]_River follows along
[22:51:14] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren arrives at Theo's office with River and approaches the guards. "We need to see the Master of Nations," she says, directing a harsh gaze at one of them.
[22:53:00] <[Multi]_Theo>	[[The guard turns to the door and kocks twice. He says, "Princess Zirren Windblade and Jade River have requested an audience with Theodore Yansen." Theodore's voice from within calls, "Yes, I'm expecting them, let them in." The guard opens the door and stands at its side, his hand clapped to his heart.]]
[22:54:16] <[Cy]_River>	That was a lot more formality that I go through.
[22:55:01] <[Naz]_Zirren>	What, does he let you just barge into his office?
[22:55:23] <[Cy]_River>	No, I just knock.
[22:55:38] 	 * [Cy]_River strides into the room
[22:57:39] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren enters the room behind River and takes a seat.
[22:58:00] <[Multi]_Theo>	Yes, Princess, I remember you wanted to discuss the particulars of the change you wanted to see. I take it you wish to participate in this discussion, windbalde?
[22:59:54] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren nods curtly. "I do."
[23:00:14] <[Multi]_Theo>	Very well. What are your wishes?
[23:08:41] <[Naz]_Zirren>	"You already know how I feel about our... servants," - the last word she says with palpable disgust - "and now that we know their true nature, neither I nor River feel safe nor comfortable with them in roles so close to us. We feel that if there was any question of whether or not they're apt for the positions they're in, it has been answered by today's events.
[23:08:47] <[Naz]_Zirren>	"
[23:09:33] <[Multi]_Theo>	Do you agree with this statement, River?
[23:10:23] <[Cy]_River>	Essentially.
[23:11:05] <[Multi]_Theo>	I see.
[23:11:39] <[Multi]_Theo>	So you feel that, regardless of their abilities, they should be relieved of their positions due to the nature of their being.
[23:12:54] <[Cy]_River>	I actually think Adeline's passenger could do her some good and perhaps improve her performance as a servant.
[23:13:36] <[Multi]_Theo>	You mean to suggest that I simply replace Adeline in her capacity as your[[plural]] attendant with Eld?
[23:15:29] <[Cy]_River>	If Eld enjoys being in control of that body and is interested in mortal employment. She seems to be much more sensible, at the very least. 
[23:16:19] <[Multi]_Theo>	I admit, that is not an option I had yet entertained. I will consider it. I don't know what Eld or Adeline would feel on the matter.
[23:17:03] <[Cy]_River>	I would enjoy Adeline taking lessons in sensibility from her passenger.
[23:17:12] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren looks to River, bewildered, but holds her tongue.
[23:17:19] <[Cy]_River>	Perhaps she will listen to that Eld if she would not listen to us.
[23:18:08] <[Multi]_Theo>	That, at least, is a very possible outcome of dialogue between the two. Though currently, as I'm sure you heard, thy have no easy means to speak to each other, and will probably have to resort to writing messages to each other, a process sure to be clumsy and slow.
[23:19:18] <[Multi]_Theo>	I will say, I would not expect Eld to be very interested in holding Adeline's station, and there is little doubt in my mind that she would accept it, but I have only just met her today, and may be misreading her feelings in that regard.
[23:24:27] <[Multi]_Theo>	But then, you two are in agreement at least about Achel?
[23:25:27] <[Cy]_River>	I suppose. Are other nations so open to parasites?
[23:25:34] <[Naz]_Zirren>	As for Achel, has already proven herself to be extremely combative with me in particular and in fact willing to, at the very least, injure one of her charges. It's only a matter of time before things between us escalate. I will not deny that I am guilty for responding to her instigations, but all the same, I believe it best she be separated from us.
[23:25:44] <[Naz]_Zirren>	((she has))*
[23:26:54] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm disapointed to hear that. I thought that things had been calming down recently.
[23:29:22] <[Cy]_River>	I can see why Achel has her position though, she is quite capable of protecting things. Unfortunately, based on various recent incidents, it has become apparent that she seems to believe she's entitled to her own judgement on who and how to protect them.
[23:29:50] <[Naz]_Zirren>	A few days ago, she disobeyed River's direct order, instead choosing to attempt to instigate another fight with me.
[23:31:18] <[Multi]_Theo>	From what I understand, there was no fight, a fact I had counted as an improvement.
[23:31:51] <[Cy]_River>	What is not an improvement is that Achel now decides on her own whom to protect from whom.
[23:32:05] <[Multi]_Theo>	But I do agree, she has been unduly belligerant lately. In a way, a wonder what's come over her; this never used to be a problem.
[23:32:20] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren sighs.
[23:33:44] <[Naz]_Zirren>	I suspect it's my fault. I believe she is from one of Sarahaa's rebelling outlying territories and thus does not see my family's claim to Sarahaa as legitimate. I think that she has forsaken her duty to you in order to take up some sort of insane vigilante cause.
[23:35:01] 	 * [Multi]_Theo , scowling, considers this for a moment.
[23:35:58] <[Multi]_Theo>	Though I must say, if she wished to assassinate you, she's been doing rather a poor job of it. Even before your recent altercation, she would have had the motive and many opportinuties to kill you, but took none of them.
[23:36:59] <[Naz]_Zirren>	As to why, I cannot say. She may be attempting to make my death look like self defense in order to deflect blame from herself.
[23:37:24] <[Multi]_Theo>	That doesn't sound like a thing Achel would do.
[23:38:03] <[Multi]_Theo>	You cannot deny that she has a strong sense of righteousness; if she wished to kill you, I have no doubt that she would not fear for her own well-being in acomplishign the task.
[23:39:06] <[Naz]_Zirren>	It is only conjecture. Regardless of her reasons, however, the fact remains that she is extremely antagonistic towards me, and as I said before, her reassignment would do us all good.
[23:40:11] <[Multi]_Theo>	/me takes his turn to sigh.
[23:40:22] <[Cy]_River>	Indeed. From that Eld's words, it is clear she had been feeding off Adeline, possibly the source of her possessive streak.
[23:41:15] <[Cy]_River>	Perhaps these successes of hers is making her more bold, and more foolish, regarding her station.
[23:41:37] <[Multi]_Theo>	I was aware that Adeline and Achel had an arrangement, but I had taken it to be for the best. After Eld's warning, that's a possibility that cannot be denied.
[23:41:50] <[Cy]_River>	It is not a stretch to imagine that the confrontation the other day was due to her perception that we were going to infringe on her possession on that cleaning girl.
[23:42:09] 	 * [Multi]_Theo smiles slightly at this.
[23:42:36] <[Multi]_Theo>	You don't think Achel was fearing for the girl's well-being? Only her ability to control the girl?
[23:42:46] <[Cy]_River>	Isn't that the same thing?
[23:43:48] <[Naz]_Zirren>	At the very least, I can imagine someone as seemingly spiteful as her wanting me to deny her new "treasure" simply on principle. All I wanted to do was get to know her.
[23:43:50] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren founds slightly.
[23:43:58] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren frowns slightly.
[23:47:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	In this case, it was probably simply the antagonism you share for each other rearing its head. It's not hard for me to imagine that she would take otherwise innocent overtures as a threat, coming from you.
[23:53:00] <[Cy]_River>	Regardless, the fact that she perceived a threat from one of us, and then decided to protect someone of lesser station from us, potentially with the threat of force, is one that cannot be accepted.
[23:53:46] <[Multi]_Theo>	This is true. I have been busy with Adeline and Eld, so I have not yet had the time to redress this grievance. You are right to prompt me to do so.
[23:56:08] <[Cy]_River>	They are to be separated immediately. I should have seen the mistake of them rooming together sooner.
[23:57:22] <[Multi]_Theo>	How "seperated" do you mean?
[23:57:52] <[Cy]_River>	At least so they do not share a room.
[23:58:12] <[Multi]_Theo>	That is easily done. They shall sleep in seperate rooms from now on
[00:02:21] <[Naz]_Zirren>	Until such time as Achel calms down, I fearthere may still be incidents. Some way of subduing the girl would be very welcome.
[00:03:00] <[Cy]_River>	Hmm yes.
[00:06:48] <[Multi]_Theo>	As a matter of fact, I've already spoken to River on this subject. We agreed that taking any measure that would intentionally decrease Achel's effective would utimately be counter-productive, and that instead you three should all be provided the same means of contacting me that Achel and Adeline have, so that I can be notified as soon as something is amiss.
[00:10:13] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren frowns, barely perceptibly, before catching herself. "Fair enough, what means are these?"
[00:11:30] <[Multi]_Theo>	They consist of a two-way communications device in the form of a small crystal that can be worn as a pendant. Either can transmit sound through the other.
[00:13:35] <[Naz]_Zirren>	That sounds... bizarre. Some sort of magical device, I take it?
[00:14:06] <[Multi]_Theo>	Of course. A recent invention, I believe, and the product of some magical cooperation between erstwhile disparate schools of magic.
[00:14:57] <[Multi]_Theo>	Though we are attempting to refine the process, they are currently very expensive and labor-intensive to make, long-range versions especially so. As the most pressing need heretofore has been to strengthen internal infrastructure, production of these communicators has been focused on long-range devices to be placed in regional capitals. Given there's now a pressing need for them in this very Palace, it would be prudent to divert some effort 
[00:14:57] <[Multi]_Theo>	from that ongiong project to produce some smaller models the like of which were prepared for Achel and Adeline.
[00:14:57] <[Naz]_Zirren>	Interesting. I would like to see such a thing. When can we expect these devices to enter our possession?
[00:16:53] <[Multi]_Theo>	Given the circumstances I just described and the pressing demand, I should be able to get them to you in about three weeks time.
[00:17:59] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren closes her eyes for a moment, calming herself. "Do you think it might be wise, given the circumstances, to take them from Adeline and Achel and give them to us?"
[00:19:40] 	 * [Multi]_Theo thinks this over.
[00:21:29] <[Multi]_Theo>	My gravest concern in so doing would be to perpetrate the insult of failing to give one to one of you. It would be unseemly to provide such a gift to only two of you, and leave the third gazing longingly.
[00:24:07] <[Naz]_Zirren>	Ah, I can understand that concern. Shizuka, however, has a good relationship with Adeline and seems to have at least a neutral one with Achel. She certainly is not a threat to the vampire, at the very least.
[00:24:38] <[Naz]_Zirren>	So while I understand your reluctance to leave her out, she, among the three of us, has the least need of one of these devices.
[00:25:43] <[Multi]_Theo>	While that may be so, I do not believe she should have a lesser desire. Of the three of you, she would seem the most concerned of living up to her station, and should surely be the most offended if I left her out.
[00:28:33] <[Naz]_Zirren>	Be that as it may, perhaps it is time for the girl to learn the value of forbearance. Perhaps she will not be placated with waiting three weeks, however 3 weeks is not such a long time. She will get one, after all, just not as soon as us.
[00:28:49] <[Naz]_Zirren>	Am I wrong?
[00:30:44] <[Multi]_Theo>	While I appreciate and sympathize with your practical thinking, but the rules of nobility are unfortunately not written according to practical demand. Here, you three are of equal rank: if I make a present to two of you, I must make it to the other one, as well.
[00:32:58] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren sighs, defeated. "I understand. I should hope no incident arises between the two of us, or between anyone else for that matter. At the very least, I am thankful you are listening to our concerns about the two mons... er, girls."
[00:33:14] 	 * [Multi]_Theo smiles.
[00:33:49] <[Multi]_Theo>	Of course. As you both know, it is my earnest wish that peace should reign inside these walls, and out.
[00:34:40] 	 * [Naz]_Zirren 's mouth dons a very slight scowl.
[00:35:00] <[Multi]_Theo>	I understand that you may not believe me, but it is the truth.
[00:39:17] <[Naz]_Zirren>	I suppose we shall know in time.
[00:39:21] <[Naz]_Zirren>	River, did you have anything else to say?
[00:51:40] <[Cy]_River>	Hmm yes.
[00:52:20] <[Cy]_River>	Now that we know Achel is a parasite, that implies that there is a particular weakness too, doesn't it?
[00:52:39] <[Multi]_Theo>	You mean that we can cut off her blood supply?
[00:53:45] <[Cy]_River>	Do we know that she absolutely requires it? What if she could go for weeks without leeching the life from something else.
[00:54:41] <[Multi]_Theo>	I do not know. Though there are many legends surrounding vampires, there is very little reliable knowledge on them.
[00:54:52] <[Multi]_Theo>	Were you referring to something else?
[00:56:39] <[Cy]_River>	Any vulnerability is a useful avenue of control.
[00:57:21] <[Cy]_River>	While I had agreed that any means of control should not impair their ability to protect us, I don't think that still stands in light of Achel's parasticism
[00:57:55] <[Multi]_Theo>	Oh? How so?
[00:59:32] <[Cy]_River>	Firstly, she is not even a plain mortal. Secondly, her status as a parasite makes her more dangerous than merely a belligerent individual.
[00:59:46] <[Cy]_River>	Clearly, the circumstances has changed with the recent revelation.
[01:00:15] <[Cy]_River>	Should Adeline improve, I believe she will suffice even if we are forced to subdue Achel.
[01:02:18] <[Multi]_Theo>	You doubt her current ability?
[01:03:10] <[Cy]_River>	Adeline's? Yes. She too is confused about her station and responsibilities. Should we subdue Achel, Adeline could very well turn on us.
[01:03:24] <[Multi]_Theo>	Ah. Now I understand.
[01:03:35] <[Cy]_River>	Perhaps that Eld's guidance can stablize Adeline.
[01:04:23] <[Cy]_River>	I certainly hope so, I would enjoy it greatly.
[01:04:34] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm certain we all would.
[01:04:56] <[Cy]_River>	Despite being an extra-planar being, that Eld seems to be rather familiar with the ways of this world.
[01:05:23] <[Multi]_Theo>	She seems to have had some time to adapt to them, yes.
[01:05:52] <[Multi]_Theo>	All the same, I have not performed the experiments that would be necessary to identify and particular weakness of Achel's, so I simply cannot provide any at this point.
[01:07:51] <[Cy]_River>	Perhaps experts downstairs could offer some suggestions then.
[01:08:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	It is possible.
[01:08:43] <[Cy]_River>	We will make use of all our means to find out, just in case. 
[01:09:45] <[Multi]_Theo>	I understand.
[01:09:46] <[Naz]_Zirren>	I second that plan.
[01:11:43] <[Multi]_Theo>	This is another thing I can promise: inquiries will be made, and research carried out.
[01:12:03] <[Cy]_River>	Excellent, then all my present concerns on this matter are settled.
[01:12:16] <[Multi]_Theo>	I am glad to hear it.
[01:13:40] <[Naz]_Zirren>	In that case, I believe we are done. I appreciate you listening to our concerns.
[01:13:56] 	 * [Cy]_River opens the door and exits through it
[01:14:05] <[Multi]_Theo>	I am always available to do so. I appreciate your bringing them to me.
[01:18:09] <[Multi]_Theo>	~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[23:26:45] <[Multi]_Theo>	~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
[23:27:35] <[Multi]_Theo>	[[It is the day that Eld first speaks to Theodore and company. River and Zirren have since discussed their concerns over Adeline and Achel with the man.]]
[23:27:57] 	 * [grant]_Achel knocks on Theo's office door
[23:28:07] <[Multi]_Theo>	Yes?
[23:28:41] <[grant]_Achel>	It's me Achel, I have something that I thought you should see.
[23:29:40] <[Multi]_Theo>	Very well, then, let's see it. Come in.
[23:29:59] 	 * [grant]_Achel enters the room and closes the door behind her.
[23:30:32] <[Multi]_Theo>	So what's this I should be looking at?
[23:30:53] 	 * [grant]_Achel pulls out the letter from beneath her armor.
[23:31:41] <[grant]_Achel>	Shizuka gave this to me and told me I should send it. I wasn't too sure why she couldn't have handled it herself.
[23:32:33] <[Multi]_Theo>	Doubtless she simply didn't know how, so she delegated the task to someone of a lesser station who can take care of the menial details.
[23:32:55] <[Multi]_Theo>	At any rate, I cannot help but notice that you have not sent it.
[23:36:05] <[grant]_Achel>	I would think someone like her would send letters often, I suppose that was my mistake. In any case, if she were to send it though me then she should know that it's my job to safeguard the coalition. 
[23:37:30] <[Multi]_Theo>	I, too, suppose that she is quite used to sending letters, and probably in the same manner she's employing now: handing a finished missive off to be sent on her behalf.
[23:38:27] <[Multi]_Theo>	But, at any rate, I agree that if she gave you the letter to send, she must have known that it was going to cross my eyes. [[He realizes something.]] Now, when were you given this letter?
[23:41:05] <[grant]_Achel>	It has been a little over the day. I had tried to give it to you earlier but it seems that you were preoccupied with something. I would guess that it had to do with Adeline and Eld.
[23:41:32] <[grant]_Achel>	(( a day^ ))
[23:42:07] 	 * [grant]_Achel places the still sealed letter onto Theo's desk.
[23:42:28] <[Multi]_Theo>	Yes, yesterday was the day Adeline and I were exploring the possibility of allowing her to speak with her better half. At any rate, If it was the day before then, I think I have a good idea what this letter is about.
[23:43:14] <[Multi]_Theo>	Let me see, here, I think I have something aroud here for this. Must be careful, now, it would be so rude to break the seal...
[23:44:56] 	 * [Multi]_Theo rummages in one of his desk drawers,finally coming across what appears to be a pair of glass tweezers. He uses them to grasp the seal on the letter, which immediately becomes unfastened from the envelope. The tweezers remain attached to the seal, even after Theodore sets it aside on his desk.
[23:45:15] <[Multi]_Theo>	My, that was easy. I should think she intended me to see this letter, with this little security.
[23:45:33] 	 * [Multi]_Theo removes the contents and begins to scan the letter.
[23:46:48] <[Multi]_Theo>	Heavens.
[23:47:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	My Oyashiman has failed me. I can't read a word of this right now. I must be rustier than I thought.
[23:47:10] <[Multi]_Theo>	It always was a nasty writing system.
[23:48:08] 	 * [Multi]_Theo replaces the sheaves in their envelope.
[23:48:43] <[grant]_Achel>	Hmmm. Sadly I don't know any thing about their writing.
[23:48:47] <[Multi]_Theo>	Still, this is probably the missive she sent to her parents declaring her intention to propose marriage to me. I'll have it translated later to see if there's anything we can glean from it, but I wouldn't expect much.
[23:49:34] <[Multi]_Theo>	And frankly, you're better off not knowing anything about Oyashiman writing. It's a terror to work with. So many characters, and they all sound the same.
[23:52:42] <[grant]_Achel>	Then I am glad that you're the one that is handling it.
[23:53:14] <[Multi]_Theo>	Ugh, I used to be passable at it. Is that the only thing you wanted to bring to my attention?
[23:54:18] <[grant]_Achel>	If you don't mind, would you like to tell me what you think about the entire situation with Adeline?
[23:55:25] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'd be more curious to hear your concerns. You live in far closer quarters with the two of them than I.
[23:57:36] <[grant]_Achel>	To be honest I have mixed feelings about this whole thing. The fact that she didn't even mention what she was doing yesterday and today...
[23:58:18] 	 * [grant]_Achel tightens her lips and stands in a thoughtful pose.
[23:59:35] <[grant]_Achel>	I feel like an idiot that I didn't even notice that she was acting strange.
[00:00:35] <[Multi]_Theo>	I would have supposed she'd spend most of the day in solitude; she was quite distraught about the matter. I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't have much of a chance to notice.
[00:01:18] <[Multi]_Theo>	But you're not at all nervous? You don't mind over-much that your peer is host to a being whose origins and motivations are largely unknown?
[00:07:42] <[grant]_Achel>	I don't feel nervous, at least not for myself. I don't believe that there is any immediate threat, otherwise it would have already done something.
[00:08:53] 	 * [Multi]_Theo nods.
[00:09:42] <[Multi]_Theo>	A sound analysis, I believe; but Eld hasn't had any opportunity to do anything before today. It's the first time she's been dominant for a long time; perhaps ever, in Adeline.
[00:10:43] <[Multi]_Theo>	Ah, yes, but I do need to speak to you about a couple things. River and Zirren were just in here, you see, expressing some doubt as to the suitability of you and Adeline to be their servants.
[00:13:33] <[grant]_Achel>	I see, well I suppose that they do think of me as an obstacle.
[00:14:24] <[Multi]_Theo>	Not so much an obstacle as, in River's case, incompetent; and in Zirren's, an abomination.
[00:14:26] <[Multi]_Theo>	Unsurprisingly enough, Zirren was after your heads, but River seemed to be more moderate, which I wasn't exactly expecting. She seems to think that Eld might be a moderating influence on Adeline. One thing that all parties were agreed on, however, was the need to rein you two in. You should know what we decided, as it directly affects you from now on.
[00:15:22] <[Multi]_Theo>	Firstly, and least dramatically, you and Adeline are to be quartered separately from now on. I trust this won't cause any major disruption.
[00:16:49] <[Multi]_Theo>	Secondly, it has been resolved that you be subject to some examination, ostensibly to detect whatever weaknesses you possess.
[00:18:50] 	 * [grant]_Achel taps her armor with her eyes closed for a few seconds to gather her words. It is clear that she isn't enjoying Theo's words.
[00:22:44] <[grant]_Achel>	I would like to offer my side of the story before such measures are taken but if you are set on this then I have only a few concerns.
[00:22:59] <[Multi]_Theo>	By all means.
[00:26:23] <[grant]_Achel>	Like you have seen before with Adeline, the princesses do not treat everyone below them with even an ounce of understand or respect. People are not just toys for them to play with.
[00:27:39] <[grant]_Achel>	The maid that I had been searching for earlier was subjected to this same kind of treatment. I could not just stand by idly while it happened.
[00:28:33] 	 * [Multi]_Theo nods, making a mental note to bring that, in particular, up.
[00:30:46] <[grant]_Achel>	I might have been a little heavy with my words and tone but if I am to be reined in for such actions then I would like something similar to prevent the reason why I acted like that in the first place.
[00:32:15] <[Multi]_Theo>	You want some assurance that River, Zirren or Shizuka will not expect servants to obey them?
[00:34:19] <[grant]_Achel>	A servants duty is to serve, not to be abused or harassed.
[00:35:22] <[Multi]_Theo>	And if her masters simply want to ask her a few questions?
[00:40:39] <[grant]_Achel>	Then she shouldn't feel pressured to do so. A good master and servant relationship is built on some level of trust and understanding.
[00:41:24] <[Multi]_Theo>	I think that we have arrived at a key point of misunderstanding between you and the princesses.
[00:42:23] <[Multi]_Theo>	One of the reasons that I have not already reassigned you and Adline, despite the mounting number of reasons I should do so, is that I beleive it is important to expose our princesses to other ways of thinking. Some amount of mutual understanding may yet be attained.
[00:43:32] <[Multi]_Theo>	However, if the understanding is to be mutual, there must be learning by both parties. You and Adeline must learn to understand, and even accept to some extent, the fact that Shizuka, River, and Zirren have power that you do not.
[00:44:31] <[Multi]_Theo>	Yes, a master-servant relationship is built on some level of trust and understanding: in the mind of the noble, this si the trust that when they issue a command, as long as it is in their power, they will be obeyed.
[00:44:59] <[Multi]_Theo>	The servant must understand that they are under orders from their master, and that these orders must be obeyed.
[00:46:01] <[Multi]_Theo>	This is perhaps not a kind reality, but it is the reality. And while they inhabit this Palace, they must be allowed the freedom to command servants as they wish. It is a privilege that I cannot deny them.
[00:47:59] <[Multi]_Theo>	And this is simply a fact that you must live with, just as you and Adeline are facts that the princesses must live with.
[00:52:45] <[grant]_Achel>	Then do you still plan to move Adeline and I?
[00:54:12] <[Multi]_Theo>	Into seperate quarters. I don't currently plan on reassigning you from your current jobs.
[00:55:03] <[grant]_Achel>	Who will watch Adeline closely if anything happens to her?
[00:55:34] <[Multi]_Theo>	What do you expect to happen to her?
[00:58:53] <[grant]_Achel>	Since Eld has been brought forth shouldn't someone be monitoring her? I do not know much about things of such matter but isn't that of concern?
[01:00:32] <[Multi]_Theo>	Not at this point. Neither Adeline nor Eld has the ability to dominate the other at will. 
[01:06:47] <[grant]_Achel>	Then I will trust your judgement, if you think it is for the best. Now, for the matter of my weaknesses. Had anyone else asked me besides you, I would have considered it a serious threat.
[01:07:05] <[Multi]_Theo>	I understand.
[01:10:05] <[grant]_Achel>	What do you exactly plan to do with such a weakness?
[01:11:28] <[Multi]_Theo>	Well, as I said, this is the ostensible reason I would want these examinations to occur. It isn't truly my sole interest.
[01:12:05] <[Multi]_Theo>	Vampires are a rare breed, at least in the public eye. There has virtually never been the opportunity for first-hand study of a known case.
[01:13:22] <[Multi]_Theo>	I would more or less let the scholars have at you and conduct what research they will; if this uncovers any supernatural "weaknesses" or yours, then they will be catalogued along with all the other information that their research would unearth.
[01:14:04] <[Multi]_Theo>	But I do want to extend this privelege to you: if there's any avenue of research that you would like to discourage, I can try to do that in the most discreet manner possible.
[01:18:24] <[grant]_Achel>	The pursuit of knowledge can be frightening. It feels that my advantage of being a mystery will be gone if I go through with this.
[01:19:02] <[Multi]_Theo>	If you're worried about the princesses, then don't be. I'll be feeding them the absolute minimum necessary to keep them happy.
[01:19:48] <[Multi]_Theo>	If you're worried about the larger implications, then I'm afraid that I simply cannot help you there. I believe strongly that this is something that should be investigated, and will be investigated someday no matter what.
[01:21:54] <[grant]_Achel>	I'll agree and hold you to your offer, I suppose I can't rely on a crutch forever. Perhaps I will learn something about myself in the process.
[01:23:18] <[Multi]_Theo>	I agree, that would be for the best.
[01:23:24] <[Multi]_Theo>	Is there anything else you wanted to discuss?
[01:25:07] <[grant]_Achel>	No, that is everything that I wanted to say.
[02:17:04] <[Multi]_Theo>	Then, at this point, there's some news I must share with you.
[02:18:38] <[Multi]_Theo>	I have spoken with Eld; she is quite given over to the idea that she can ease relations between Adeline and the princesses, and has asked to fill Adeline's shoes for three days beginning today.
[02:21:32] <[grant]_Achel>	Have you already agreed for her to have this?
[02:21:50] <[Multi]_Theo>	I have.
[02:24:00] <[grant]_Achel>	I see, if you have no problem with it then I don't have one either. Has Adeline come to this agreement as well?
[02:24:25] <[Multi]_Theo>	I have no way of knowing.
[02:24:52] <[Multi]_Theo>	It hurts, being cut off like this. I can only hope she won't hold it against me when she does get put back in charge.
[02:26:57] <[grant]_Achel>	They are different people in the same body, even if they have been together for all their life it would be difficult to imitate the other perfectly if that is what you are worried about.
[02:28:03] <[Multi]_Theo>	Oh, I assure you, there is going to be no imitation involved. You've observed for yourself how different in manner Eld and Adeline are.
[02:28:28] <[Multi]_Theo>	I'm just pained to see Eld holding Adeline hostage like this. I can't imagine she's enjoying being locked up in her own mind.
[02:31:14] <[grant]_Achel>	Well, it might be a little harsh but Adeline should have known the risks. However, if Eld doesn't fulfill her side of the deal then I will see to it personally that she does.
[02:33:26] <[Multi]_Theo>	It would have been good to have your muscle with me when I was negotiating. It really doesn't sit right with me to keep Adeline out of control of her own body without having any say in the matter, but I didn't see any better options.
[02:36:08] <[grant]_Achel>	It has already been settled, we shall make the best of what we have.
[02:36:24] <[Multi]_Theo>	Now, I doubt that this will matter for the duration that Eld is in control, but there is something I want to say with an eye to when Adeline resumes domination:
[02:36:41] <[Multi]_Theo>	Given Eld's warning, I advise you to stop drinking Adeline's blood.
[01:28:50] <[grant]_Achel>	Is that advise or an order?
[01:29:17] <[Multi]_Theo>	In the end, it is an order. I feel it unsafe to be playing with magic we may not understand.
[01:29:28] <[Multi]_Theo>	Unless you feel you have a reason to recommend otherwise?
[01:33:43] 	 * [grant]_Achel there is a moments pause before she answers the question, like searching for something to say.
[01:33:55] <[grant]_Achel>	I have no reason.
[01:35:58] <[Multi]_Theo>	Then stop drinking Adeline's blood. I understand that your arrangement must be convenient for the both of you; perhaps, as part of the research, it can be determined if it truly is safe for you to drink it.
[01:36:48] <[grant]_Achel>	Adeline isn't just a convenience.
[01:37:21] <[Multi]_Theo>	Oh, no -- I'm sorry, that was a tactless thing to say. I never meant to imply as much.
[01:37:59] <[Multi]_Theo>	Nevertheless, I imagine it must be a relief to be able to sate what could otherwise be a dangerous urge in a safe way.
[01:42:38] <[grant]_Achel>	It's alright, there is no need to explain. As long we both understand then it's fine. If you will excuse me, let me know of the details for researching later on. * She goes to quickly exit the office. *
[01:43:52] 	 * [Multi]_Theo uses his glass tweezers to replace the seal on Shizuka's letter, then begins reading the brief he was previously occupied with
[01:45:39] 	 * [grant]_Achel tries not to close the door with too much force but a muted slam sounds in the office.
[01:53:54] <[Multi]_Theo>	~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~