Exalted:End of an Era

[Biologist]

Lenco dismissed Web's offer. "No. Ghost messengers are of no good. I will summon more sorcerers."

 

He ushered them out with a wave of his hand and a look of urgency on his face. The messenger was still waiting outside the doors when Pheonix went to get him. Timidly, he entered the office of the commander again.

 

Once Web and Pheonix were outside the office, servants quickly led them outside the building and onto the street. Breathing in the morning air was refreshing after the perfumed chambers of the Commander...

 

--------------------

 

Hanzo was glad that the Chumyo seemed pleased. When she disappeared inside the sleeping quarters, he went to check on his own uniform. It was drying nicely and would be wearable after he woke up. At least, I hope I can get some sleep. He went into the sleeping quarters as well and found himself a small mattress and a pillow roll to lie down on and it did not take long for sleep to find him.

Edited August 29, 2013 by Biologist

[Mistress of Whispers]

Mia put away her needle and thread, got dressed and admired her handiwork. It didn't look exactly like the uniforms the Council Hall servant wore, but it was close enough. She put a plain brown robe on over them and made her way to the hall on foot. Once there, she watched the people coming and going; their interactions with each other, the guards; the ebb and flow of workers... She allowed their collective identity to wash over and through her, until she was soaked in it. Then, she approached the servant entrance...

 

((Easily Overlooked Presence Method & Mastery of Small Manners))

 

----------------------------------------------------

 

 

As Shaya put on the garments that Hanzo had mended for her, she took a moment to notice how soft they now felt. Had they ever been this soft, or was that too an effect of the Twilight's work? She also took a moment to notice his glowing Caste Mark. "You might want to cover that if you're planning to go out," she said while she gestured to his forehead. Admittedly her unit was accustomed to working with a Solar, but it never hurt to get yourself into the habit of covering your forehead whenever you were about to expend effort; best to do it too often, than once too few.

Edited September 9, 2013 by Mistress of Whispers

[Takhesis]

Pheonix was relieved to get out of the perfumed air into the fresh air of the street. If Nexus air could be called fresh.. now to make a rather interesting report to Shaya...

 

She did briefly think of ordering Web to make the report since she was better with words, but dismissed it as a bad tactical idea.

 

Shaya was less likely to kill Pheonix at the part about Web displaying her Caste Mark. Even if it did prove helpful.

 

 

Web was having similar thoughts - how would Shaya react to her 'condition' now being known to someone like Lenco?

 

This report should be interesting indeed.... though the information that Lenco was working for a power that considered the Neverborn as allies to be manipulated and not feared was certainly worrying and at the same time useful.

 

[since I think they've done what they can - at least without Web sneaking off to spy, which would be a bad plan considering Shaya's mistrust of Abyssals in general - both should head back to report to Shaya. Unless Web sneaking would make for more interesting posts? Assuming Pheonix takes her eyes off Web long enough for her to/is told of plan?]

[Mistress of Whispers]

((Web sneaking off on her own would be a very bad idea. Web sneaking off with Pheonix' permission might work though. Your choice.))

[Mistress of Whispers]

((Biologist, I think it's your turn to reply?))

[Biologist]

((I am terribly sorry to have kept you waiting. Hanzo is asleep and Pheonix and Web are out of Lenco's house, so I have nothing to add at the moment. I think spying would reveal nothing much interesting (just Lenco making others make preparations), I am looking forward to Pheonix' and Web's rapport to Shaya ))

[Takhesis]

((Well Mia just snuck in to the council building... so that could be interesting/boring depending on the councillors - though perhaps Thorns' normal representative would be disconcerted since the Mask has taken an interest in this session...? ))

 

Pheonix and Web made their way back to the Bronze Tigers' compound, both absorbed in their thoughts.

 

Web wondering on the nature of Lenco's allies and worrying on Shaya's reactions.

 

Pheonix was focusing on the report that needed to be made. Shaya certainly wouldn't like the knowledge of Lenco serving Darkness....

 

Arriving back at the gates, it was time to face Shaya - after the guard let them in again that is.

[Mistress of Whispers]

The gateguard, recognizing Phoenix and Web, let them into the compound without hassle. Returning to their assigned barracks, they found Shaya back in her armour - all shiny and bright, with her gleaming new insignia attached - talking to Hanzo and Tinker. She was holding the paper on which Tinker and Web had outlined patrons and contributors to the new army earlier and, judging from Shaya's relaxed mood and Tinker's nervousness, she hadn't reached the part yet where the Mask of Winters was listed as supplier for artifacts.

 

"How did it go with the Ambassador?" she asked them. "I've memorized my speech - excellent writing, Web."

 

 

-------------------------------------

 

As she had anticipated, Mia had easily been 'mistaken' (with a little help) for one of the servants and had almost free movement in the Council Hall. She had to take care of checking the seats, uncorking refreshments and making sure there was enough food, but no one seemed to think she looked out of place. She quietly looked around for the best place to stand once the speech started - she was determined to hear all of it, and watch the Council's reaction, before deciding what to do. She was still hoping for a peaceful resolution to Lookshy's conflict with the Realm, but she feared that might not be possible. Although, she reasoned, her powers of persuasion were formidable - even if the new Chumyo was a Terrestrial Exalt, she might be able to steer him in the right direction (with a little help).

[Takhesis]

"As well as can be expected." Pheonix said, "Commander Lenco didn't seem to appreciate our presence at first. However, that changed rather quickly after a caster-messenger received his initial briefing."

 

Pheonix then explained that while waiting on Lenco and his other expected arrival, Web had spoken with the Spirit of the Household and bargained for an ally - resulting in a fail-safe phrase to be used if Lenco didn't co-operate.

 

"Web can explain that better than I however."

 

Web acknowledged Shaya's compliment on the speech and took up the report from Pheonix's cue.

 

"I made a deal with Lenco's household spirit. In return for its aid - I agreed to ensure that the vote council for Chumyo would be held within its domain. I was given a phrase to use - I had hoped not to need it but the missives held by the messenger indicated that Lenco was already preparing to act."

 

 

"I used the fail-safe and Lenco changed - his eyes went completely black and he seemed to go insane - he closed the dividing door between us and the messenger and accused us of being spies and asked us how we knew it."

 

This was the part that Web wasn't certain of Shaya's reaction to, hopefully it wouldn't be too painful... she took a deep breath before continuing:

 

"I displayed my Caste Mark as the explanation and he calmed back down. It appears he has a powerful ally in the shadows - as he spoke of the Neverborn without flinching."

 

[i think that makes a good pause point for Shaya to react - since Web is displaying the fact she's nervous - even if its only from the deep breath.]

[Mistress of Whispers]

Shaya's eyes narrow when Web mentions black eyes and turn into veritable slits when she describes Lenco's reaction to the Neverborn.

 

"Is he like you?" she asks the Abyssal, "Another servant?"

 

She stares at Web intently, trying to read her bodylanguage. The Moonshadow looks nervous, that much is clear even to her, but why? It occurs to her that Web and Lenco could be serving the same master and that this is a ploy to ensure the vote is held at his house. It might be a trap to lure the remaining leaders of the Seventh and finish them off. Then again, it could also be that Web is simply nervous because she also realizes what it looks like. Shaya looks to Tinker for confirmation of one or the other, but the old man is staring at Web too, as if still trying to read her.

 

Clenching her jaw, Shaya nods for Web to continue her story. That might reveal more clues about her allegiance and give Tinker time to come to a conclusion.

[Takhesis]

[Moonshadows are hard to read.... so its likely Tinker is withholding judgement til end of the report. Nerves are a double-edged sword.. especially for Web.]

 

Web answered Shaya's questions, since that was a good place to continue from:

 

"I do not believe he shares the same Exaltation, but he does seem to be working for a power similar to - but not identical to - the Neverborn. Whoever Lenco is working for wants control - the Neverborn want destruction."

 

Resuming the report, Web picked up from her pause.

 

"Once Lenco saw my Caste Mark - he presumed to know my allegiance, and that of Pheonix as well - since she didn't display a hostile reaction to my blatant display of Exaltation."

 

Web figured it would be diplomatic not to mention how Lenco referred to Shaya's claim to Chumyo, and continued - her nerves relaxing as Shaya hadn't reacted too badly to the news of Lenco's alignment.

 

"Lenco won't oppose the proposition for the reborn Seventh. I managed to convince him that the army wasn't counter-intuitive to the mutual goals of those we served."

 

"The issue of the title and rank of Chumyo is another matter - Lenco is determined to claim that position. I have, however, managed to convince him to hold a democratic vote on the issue. Meaning, that other candidates - including you, should you wish it beyond the emergency appointment currently in effect - can make their position known."

 

Not wanting to hide anything, since she was aware of the proverbial thin ice, Web ended with:

 

"The surviving section heads and yourself will be invited to the voting council. As could be guessed, Lenco plans to rig the vote in his favour - to that end, still believing he knew my nature - asked me to attend it as your servant, so I could sabotage your campaign by tarnishing your image among the commanders." Of course, if I intended to do that why would I mention it?

 

 

Pheonix stood to attention, listening to Web's report and waiting to be asked for her version. She did note Web's omission of Lenco's insulting dismissal of Shaya after the Caste Mark incident. Though she was certain that was probably a good thing - Shaya's reaction to knowing Lenco's opinion of her would not be the most subtle.

 

Though, of course, if asked for a full report, Pheonix would give that detail as well.

[Mistress of Whispers]

Shaya was silent for a while as she considered Web's story and her resulting options. She exchanged a glance with Pheonix to see if the Moonshadow was twisting the story in any way.

 

"I want to deal with Lenco as soon as possible," she said. Tinker opened his mouth to speak, but the Dawn raised her hand to stop him. "I know - I can't kill or assasinate him yet, because the world believes him to be a legitimate ambassador and it would ruin my reputation. I have a different plan: as soon as the leaders have gathered, we will use the trigger phrase and reveal him for what he is. *Then* I can kill him. If the fight also reveals my nature, that might even be beneficial; I do want to make myself available as Chumyo, but I'm not sure I want to keep hiding my exaltation."

 

And, of course, by forcing a confrontation with Lenco from the very start, Shaya would reveal Web's true allegiance - she might not be politically savy, but she was a strategic thinker. If Web was true, the phrase would work and Lenco could be dealt with. If she wasn't true, then Shaya would know to watch her back during the meeting - and of course she'd keep her unit nearby for the eventuality of a trap.

Edited September 27, 2013 by Mistress of Whispers

[Biologist]

Hanzo looked thoughtful during the report. When Shaya was finished, he asked Web: "What is the trigger phrase?"

 

He looked worried. "The only ones who do not fear the Neverborn are the servants of the Wyld... and the servants of the Yozi. And the Fae would *never* work with any primordial, so that leaves us with..." He let that sink in, he himself still calculating the implications of what he just said.

Edited September 27, 2013 by Biologist

[Takhesis]

Since Shaya and Pheonix had worked together for a long time, little needed to be said between them.

 

Besides, Pheonix would have interrupted if there was any big discrepancy in Web's tale. The fact she hadn't done so would be a good indication that Web's summary wasn't fabricated.

 

Of course, she wouldn't be able to vouch for the entirety of the first deal - the one with the spirit of the household, since she was only party to Web's side of the talk.

 

Also,

 

"She did miss out the part where Lenco dismissed you as a 'dupe that was being manipulated' after her Caste Mark reveal. But I think I can see why she didn't say it." Pheonix wasn't being critical of Web in her tone, just a statement of fact.

 

She doubted it would change Shaya's opinion of Lenco - since it was already low. Plus, the fact that Web had admitted Lenco's sabotage request should go towards Shaya viewing her more favourably - despite the omission.

 

 

Web had already considered the implications of Lenco's hidden ally so she wasn't surprised at Hanzo's worry at the situation. While she waited for the result of Pheonix's report of her omission, she answered Hanzo's question:

 

"The trigger phrase or fail safe as I called it earlier is: 'Black Heron at the edge of the pool of Wisdom'. "

[Mistress of Whispers]

"A dupe?" Shaya looks more dismissive than angered at Lenco's comment. After all, his opinion of her won't matter once he is dealt with.

 

Hanzo's input has her more worried though. "A servant of the Yozi? Great, a demonworshipper is just what we needed." She sounds a little fatigued, but no less determined.

 

"We'll out Lenco in front of the assembly using the catch phrase and then I kill him. I'm a little anxious about the locale for the meeting though - if Lenco is planning to assassinate the remaining leaders of the Seventh, he would have the advantage in his home. Any way we can wiggle out of that?" the last question is directed to Web.

 

She looks at Tinker again for his opinion on Web's truthfulness, but the old man's face is blank, nor is he making handsigns; he must have trouble reading her. Not much to do then but muddle on ahead and hope for the best (while planning for the worst)...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Takhesis]

Web considered Shaya's next question.

 

"Once the initial invites have been sent out - it would be difficult to change the location." Web then explained the loophole left in her deal with the spirit. If Nexus forbids the escorts - then it would put me in a tight spot with Lenco's household spirit, but the breach could be forgiven since the head of Nexus is not within my power to control.

 

"However - if each commander brings sufficient military escort, then perhaps the Envoy of Nexus could be persuaded that the meeting needs to be held in a less residential location - and moved one more within Nexus's control. Since the Ambassadorial homes are technically the province of the representative state - a large military force could be viewed as hostile and Nexus laws forbid armies to be present without its knowledge."

 

[Considering Nexus's history with the dead and demons - I doubt they'd be favourable to knowing an Abyssal is inside the walls - especially if 'working' with one of the Salmalin cult/demon worshipper in position of power]

[Mistress of Whispers]

Shaya thought for a moment. "I'd prefer to have the meeting with the commanders and possibly their seconds, but not a full escort. But given the situation and that the Seventh is essentially at war, they might refuse to move too far from their wings and then we'd have to host the meeting outside the city wall, in the camp. Since the commanders are not under your control either, would that get you off the hook with the house spirit?"

 

She exchanged a glance with Tinker, who nodded. As one of the oldest men in the Seventh, he knew a lot of people - including a few commanders. He could probably point out to them that, in times of war, they needed to remain in the camp.

[Takhesis]

"That would do it," Web agreed, "As long as I've done what was reasonably within my power to keep to the deal - then the spirit can not complain too much."

 

Web could expect a toll to paid for the broken deal - however with certain aspects outside her control, it should be a lesser cost.

[Mistress of Whispers]

"Alright, let's go that route then. Meeting in the camp, use the phrase, kill the demon worshipper. But before then, I have a speech to give. Does anyone need any sleep at this point -" it was already morning "- or all you good to continue?" There was still Tinker and Web's plan to approach ambassadors from the River Council for support and Shaya looked like she wanted to discuss a few things with Pheonix alone.

[Takhesis]

Both the Exalts: Pheonix and Web indicated they could still go on for longer. Exalts generally needed less sleep than mortals - though any extended period of time would eventually take the same toll.

 

Abyssals and daylight didn't go well together, but Web figured she could play that off as a weakness due to a childhood sickness. Even in the borrowed dark green robes she looked pale. Aversion to light would be understandable in those circumstances.

[Biologist]

Hanzo had been awake for far too long, in his reconing. But still he felt invigorated by the sunrise and the thrill of being exalted. After a week through the underworld he should be in a stupor, suffering from nightmares. Yet even though a few hours ago, the psychic burden of their journey had weighed heavily on his mind, at the moment he felt like he could go on for another week. He looked at his Chumyo and answered her question. "I have lost my sleep somewhere. I can go on, sir. What can I do to help?"

[Mistress of Whispers]

Since the mortal members of the unit had gotten at least half a night's sleep (with the exception of Tinker, but he needed very little sleep) and the Exalts were all ready to go on, the group was ready for another day. Tinker casually took the list of River States and sponsors from Shaya (ostensibly to make sure Web and he didn't miss anyone while visiting the ambassadors, but really to make sure the Chumyo didn't read that ill-fated 'Thorns: Artifacts' line without the old man's guidance) and guided Web out of the room: "Time for some more diplomacy. You did well with Ambassador Lenco, child."

 

Turning to Hanzo, Shaya told him to get some rest regardless, or at the very least a hearty breakfast and some fresh air. When the engineer had left and they were alone, she turned to her Second. "Once the Commanders arrive, I want you and the unit as back-up in case Web does prove untrustworthy. If she is, and she and Lenco are planning a trap, the safety of the Commanders is our primary objective; neutralizing Lenco and Web will be secondary. Since the place of the meeting is still up in the air we won't be able to set up a definite plan, but I want you to draw up a first outline."nzo's ques

Edited September 29, 2013 by Mistress of Whispers

[Takhesis]

Once outside Web and Tinker started on the lists - working out which to head for and in what order.

 

It seemed the basic consensus was to visit the difficult ones first - since they would take the most time to convince. The ones they knew would support the Seventh's resurrection only needed a courtesy call - so they would be visited as the opportunity arose.

 

The biggest problem was Thorns - not due to convincing, though that would be an issue, but because of who was in charge there.

 

-------

 

Pheonix had expected that Shaya would still have reservations about Web. It was hard to kick an ingrained habit of hatred.

 

"Understood. I'll draw up a plan of battle for that situation." Pheonix didn't like the prospect of not knowing the terrain, but uncertainty was always a problem - even in pitched battles. Limited troops would also be factor, although she could most likely count on the Bronze Tigers showing up if big trouble arose.

[Mistress of Whispers]

((Here's what I was thinking about the River Council Ambassadors. Maybe you can use parts of that? (You are also free to come up with your own angles of course.)

 

- Sijan: Eternally neutral (because dependent on income from both the East and the Dynasty). Will not hinder or support.

- Celeren: Have long since relied on Lookshy to protect them from their neightbours (aka Thorns). With Lookshy gone, they're vulnerable. So they are ALL IN when it comes to the new army (providing an unparalleled cavalry), as long as it will be stationed near Celeren (and effectively protect them like the Seventh once did).

- Thorns: Mask of Winters is eager for an army to challenge the Dynasty and 'soften up' the Blessed Isle for his own invasion plans. He'll make a big show of needing persuasion, but in the end will 'reluctantly' come around and support.

- Mount Metagalapa: The Hawkriders have long been allies of Lookshy, but Mt Metagalapa is far in the East and they can't spare many men (if Metagalapa ever comes after attack, it will take forever for those troops to return home). However, if they can be persuaded to lend even a single aerial legion to the new army, that would bring great tactical strength and prestige.

- Hundred Kingdoms: They're hopelessly divided, but many of them want to stop fighting their neighbours (then endless wars are draining them dry). If Web or Tinker can negotiate a peace between the leading Kingdoms, they could spare troops (they have a LOT of ground troops).

- Nexus: Nexus is the richest city in the East and could provide a lot of financial backing IF they can be persuaded to join. It might work to play them against their semi-rivals Great Forks ("Great Forks is considering joining - surely you don't want to be left out...")

- Great Forks: Many sorcerers come from Great Forks and it has a terrific magical curriculum. IF they can be persuaded to join, they could provide battle sorcerers. It might work to play them against Nexus (see above).

- Countless of city-states, small kingdoms, etc: Will go where the majority goes. None of them will be eager for war, but they can't afford to be left out.

- Independent parties: i.e. the Bronze Tigers could be a very valuable part of the new army.

 

What do you think?))

Edited September 30, 2013 by Mistress of Whispers

[Takhesis]

((I think the Nexus vs Great Forks was already considered by Web when drafting the lists with Tinker. So that's definitely in. Shaya has already got Dace's support - so the Bronze Tigers are likely to become the First Company in the new Seventh - they certainly have the expertise for that.

 

The distant parties were going to be difficult - even if they like the idea, sparing troops would be an issue.

 

Thorns would always be an INTERESTING party - especially as the Mask has taken a personal interest in this meeting.

Although if Thorns makes a counter it may persuade others to vote in favour:

 

i.e who needs a Seventh when Thorns already has proven military strength?

 

I suspect many would vote for a new Seventh just to avoid being in debt to a Death Lord....

 

Internal politics of the Kingdoms could be played: I'll join if x agrees to these peace terms etc.)